Another new year is upon us! While many people are hustling to map out their resolutions & goals, I am starting a slightly different trend. There is no pressure. No strict rules. No deadlines. No shame or guilt. It works for where I’m at. I hope you’ll join me!
I am dedicating small moments each day to implement simple practices that will bring out my most authentic self. I’ve already started in 2021 (no rules remember?) and have found it transformational! Take which practices work best for you and put them into, well, practice! As often as you’re able to, for as long as you’re able. I’m cheering you on!!!
Whenever we find ourselves in a situation that stumps us in some way; we can practice asking ourselves “What do I want this to look like?”. Beginning with the end in mind helps us craft a plan that is most authentic to us, physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Ask yourself:
1. What is my ideal outcome for this situation?
2. What steps do I need to take to achieve that?
3. Which step next?
4. Is there an internal belief or mindset that I need to adjust to achieve this?
There are certain things which are out of our control yet there are just as many things within our control, including our responses. It’s not only about changing external circumstances but also examining any internal beliefs, mindsets and attitudes that can possibly shift to better support us.
It may be time to let go of the habitual mindset “it is what it is” and begin practicing “it can be what I want”. Change is possible!
Practice #2 PAUSING
We live in a society of instant everything! While often convenient, we have unfortunately conditioned ourselves to also be instantaneous, especially in our reactions. This can cause conflict within ourselves and with others.
By practicing pausing, we create a space (even if it’s only a moment) allowing our minds and hearts a chance to process the situation before we act. One way I found helpful to practice this is to press my thumb and middle finger together. In my mind it’s like pressing my very own pause button. This is a cue for me to take a breath and ask myself one or two quick questions such as:
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What is really triggering me?
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Is that the best thing to say?
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Do I honestly have the time, energy, or resources to say yes to this?
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Is what’s being said the truth or merely opinion?
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Do I have all the information?
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What’s the worst that will happen if I don’t engage?
By creating that pause, I find that I am responding from a place that’s more authentic and less stressful! I do not do this in every single situation, that is unrealistic. This is a practice. This takes time, intention, and consistency. Start with one situation a day where you consciously pause. See how it feels. What was different than in times past in similar situations? As you start experiencing the benefits, I hope you’ll build upon this practice. You are worth the wait!
