Since I began setting New Day Resolutions in the morning, starting over two weeks ago, I find myself moving through each day with a subtle but distinct difference.
Daniel Pink might call the experience engaging my "whole mind." Others might call it aligning the energy. I could even call it turning on the checks and balances between my left and right brain.
Whatever we choose to call this - I am experiencing life more in the moment. My inner observer is awake and guiding me. I am less driven, yet more effective. I feel less overwhelmed, and more able to prioritize. The simple act of discerning what is most important for me to be aware of as I begin my day allows me to engage both sides of my brain to work on behalf of me.
Last week was challenging. My aunt had died on my father's side. My uncle on my mother's side was in intensive care, not expected to live. I had minor outpatient surgery. My business leads were exploding. I was preparing for a long trip back to Ohio this past weekend to help my parents move this week.
Through it all, setting my "New Day Resolution" early in the morning set the tone, created an intention of sorts, and helped me how "to be" while I was in the "to do" stage. In short, I was handling life much better, with more energy and ability to be in each moment.
About 12 days ago, however, I chose to ignore my New Day Resolution, which called for finding moments to play and rest. My inner kid was cooped up! As a result of ignoring this resolution, I became extremely irritable, was impatient with my business partner, and had an important lead chew my head off on the phone. Who said the Law of Attraction doesn't work? By that afternoon, I couldn't trust myself to follow up with other leads because of the state of mind I was in. So I walked out of my office and plopped down on the couch.
The following day I rearranged my daily routine. I scheduled in play during the first half of the day, and worked the 2nd half. I loved it! Interestingly, the lead who bit my head off the previous day called me early that morning to apologize. It was a nice way to start out my morning before I headed out to play.
This week is hectic with helping my parents move. I'm 700 miles from home. It's darn cold in Ohio, now that I've become a South Carolinian. But it doesn't matter. I've got my New Day's Resolution in hand to remind me that for today, I only have to do one day's worth of work, and I can do it in a way that feels manageable.
So I'm off to get in my cold car and get moving. Catch you later!
Debbie,
It seems that we are experiencing the same things in our lives and once again, your blog post comes right on time ;)
For the next few days I will be letting my inner child come out and play! I need it.
Thanks for all your inspiration!
Posted by: Maria Palma | February 01, 2007 at 02:59 AM
Play away, Maria! Isn't it odd how naturally we played as children, and how challenging it can be when we become older? Enjoy!
Posted by: Deb Call | February 01, 2007 at 08:17 AM