At this time of year many of us are making resolutions and plans. It makes sense to have aims and objectives so we can move forward and grow and feel a sense of achievement. My work with clients is often about helping them to work out their career goals and make a realistic plan to get there, rather than reacting to what other people make possible. Often we start with looking at what the person wants to look back on in future years. We’re trying to work out what is really important to them to make the most of what for all of us is a fleeting life.
As Wayne Dyer said,
“Don’t die with your song still in you.”
However, this all has to be thought about in the context of what is going to make the journey to where and who you want to be a happy one that gives you time to enjoy being alive. Otherwise life can end up being just too busy, with pressure to succeed in every aspect. We are bombarded with information and advice from all sides and each day becomes a long list of “things to do”.
So maybe we should all start the new year by actually reducing our expectations and trying instead to concentrate on what is at the core of our reason for valuing life. Of all the different things you juggle with every day, which are least important? Can you stop doing some of them to give you more time to concentrate on the ones which give you a sense of well-being and contentment? Or can you simply reduce the level to which you do something (best example: housework!) to give you more time for things you enjoy?
Mindfulness is all about trying to focus on the here and now, rather than constantly looking back or worrying about the future. It’s about appreciating and enjoying the moment – try it!