It’s the first Monday of the New Year and, just like the rest of the world, many of us are brimming with New Year’s resolutions (some that are already broken, ha). You know how it goes: “I’m going to start a new business.” “I’m going to learn French.” I’m going to lose 20 pounds.” In the midst of all the ambitious “I’m going to” goals we set, I think the best thing we can actually do for ourselves is to focus a bit less on what we say we want to “do,” and focus a bit more on how we want to “be.”
A state of doing keeps us busy. All of the to-do lists; places to go to; and projects to complete have their place and value, but often times we get so focused on what needs to be done that we often miss the tiny moments constantly crossing our paths that could make us smile if only we noticed them or made a concerted effort to look for, create and acknowledge them.
A state of being is much different. It allows you to immerse yourself in the moment. To be present for a conversation. To absorb the atmosphere and energy around you. To inhale deeply for a minute and take in what’s happening in the world. To slow down and actually enjoy the “why” and fruits of all of the things we say we want to do.
For example, instead of “I’m going to lose 20 pounds” we can say “I’m going to be active.” The weight loss is the goal, but the physical activity is the state of being you use to get there. In fact, ‘it”s the state of being that can actually be what brings about successful longevity in reaching the goal.
We can be at peace. Be content. Be above the fray and mindless chatter. We can focus more on being loving and thoughtful and resilient and hopeful and optimistic, which will, ironically, ultimately bring more satisfaction to the things we do.
As for me, I will choose to be okay with good instead of perfect. I will choose to be free of trying to control the things I can’t. And lastly, I will choose to be unbothered by worthless negativity. Especially when it comes from someone whose opinion means nothing in, and to, my life.
In short, I’m choosing to be in a state of mind where I keep my head to the sky.
What about you? Are you going to just “do,” or will you balance it with how you want to “be?” 2015 is waiting for your answer…
—Post inspired by the amazing Rachel Zimmerman
#LiveEffervescently