Be Kind To Yourself….
Hi There,
Last week I had a long-overdue conversation with my dear colleague Karl, and it was amazing! Sitting with him live-and in-person, we shared our challenges and triumphs of the past 16 months. The result: Once again, I questioned why we humans are so unkind to ourselves. And for once, I’m not referring to our inner critics.
This smart, caring, practical person stubbornly resisted being self-compassionate, meaning, Karl was not interested in creating practices to maintain optimal functioning of his four personal energy tanks. In some cases, these healthy rituals can actually be enjoyable. And yet, many of us are naturally reluctant to invest in them. For instance, there’s a perception that exercise is exhausting, while in reality, if you discover the right type of exercise, it rejuvenates all of your energy tanks: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.
But in Karl’s case, I’m referring to the small stuff, like drinking enough water. I was left puzzled by his resistance and excuses for not achieving adequate hydration, which is vital for living, not to mention easily accomplished. It’s practically free and allows for better focus and general well-being. For example, most headaches can be avoided by staying properly hydrated. Additionally, when you feel hungry, often it’s not true hunger, but thirst.
Another self-care tool for a more fulfilled life which is easily at your fingertips is the acknowledgment of awe-inspiring moments. And it doesn’t take standing in front of the Grand Canyon. I mean being present for life’s “tiny miracles”, like the stillness of the morning. Have you ever noticed how when manmade noise is removed from the equation, the asynchronous sounds of nature converge to create the greatest improv imaginable? How about the way raindrops bead and cling to a pine tree or a bannister? Have you ever witnessed a baby exploring its own toes? The shapely shadow on the sidewalk cast from a streetlamp in the still of the night? We get to choose our awe!
If your reflex, like Karl's, is, “No, I can’t enjoy XYZ”, ask yourself who benefits from the story of pessimism you’re telling yourself. Then, remember what Henry Ford famously said: “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” Join me in choosing that YOU CAN, and enjoy an awe-inspired life!
If the mood strikes, hit reply and tell me what you’re in awe of these days.
Cheers!
-Deborah
Deborah Goldstein
DRIVEN Professionals / Forbes / Linkedin
info@drivenpros.com | LinkedIn
DRIVEN Professionals, 35 Adrienne Lane, Garrison, NY 10524