“Finding the lesson behind every adversity will be the one important thing that helps get you through it.” ― Roy T. Bennett
Somebody tweeted the other day that if we don’t use our time on lockdown to learn a new skill, start a “side hustle” and gain more knowledge, we lack self-discipline.
I have a problem with this kind of thinking.
My bingeing days may be well behind me but, like many people who binge eat, I have a tendency towards busyness and achievement.
“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety.” – Abraham Maslow
How often have you found yourself at that difficult crossroads?
A part of you urges you to step back, insisting you stay in your comfort zone where it’s familiar and safe. “Keep to your usual way of thinking. Continue your old patterns of behaviour. You know where you are then”, it says.
But, like a persistent child tugging at your sleeve, another part wants your attention.
Rather than stay safe, it compels you to move forward. “There’s more for you than this. You know there is”, it whispers, as it hints at an exciting future you’ve yet to discover.
Continue reading “Food for Thought: Step Forward into Growth”
“Be careful what you water your dreams with. Water them with worry and fear and you will produce weeds that choke the life from your dream. Water them with optimism and solutions and you will cultivate success. Always be on the lookout for ways to turn a problem into an opportunity for success. Always be on the lookout for ways to nurture your dream.” – Lao Tzu
So you’ve crystallised your dreams for the future and you’ve planted the seeds of your desires in the (hopefully) fertile soil of the new year.
Now take a moment to look inward and tell me – do you expect your dreams ultimately to grow and blossom, or wither and die?
Be honest.
Your answer makes all the difference.
Continue reading “Food for Thought: Water Your Dreams with Optimism”
If you wrote a New Year’s Day letter to yourself (remember Season’s Greetings: A Letter to You?) here’s a friendly reminder to open it.
Enjoy reading your letter – I hope it brings you comfort, insight and encouragement.
If you haven’t written your letter yet, it’s not too late. Why not take some time to write one now? If you’ve immediately dismissed this suggestion, maybe ask yourself why. What’s holding you back?
“May light always surround you;
Hope kindle and rebound you.
May your hurts turn to healing;
Your heart embrace feeling.
May wounds become wisdom;
Every kindness a prism.
May laughter infect you;
Your passion resurrect you.
May goodness inspire
your deepest desires.
Through all that you reach for,
may your arms never tire.”
― D. Simone
“What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace.”
– Agnes M. Pharo
I hope you have a happy and peaceful Christmas wherever you are.
Julie de Rohan 