Only last night as I was working with my Mindfulness group in Tuam, we explored the idea of taking things in our stride or finding our own pace, in a world where we are told to grow up, pass all your exams, be successful, get a job, buy a house, save your money, it is all like running a race where there is no finish line!
Where are we all running to ? As I said in my group last night, the end point for all of us is physical departure from this world, and in that moment will you look back and think "yeah I really got through that life quickly!" Believe it or not, most people feel that they missed a lot of life by working so hard, spending too much time getting 'things' done and missing out on what is truly important. So what's the rush?
Society has taught us that we must be 'doing' something all of the time or we are just wasting time. I disagree, in the moments that I have spend meditating or walking, I don't consider it to be nothing, I actually believe it is the one of the most vital parts of my day. In that time, I allow myself to be mindful of my surroundings, to focus on how I feel and accept whatever arises for me in that moment. I also get some of my most splendid ideas and inspirations by taking time out to ground and balance my energy - mind, body and soul.
I have walked some of the Camino de Santiago and each time the experience is different. I love that feeling of not knowing what the day or route ahead will lay in store for me, I can't plan what the weather will be like and no matter hail, rain or shine, I will soak up (excuse the pun) the experience. I suppose in a way, doing the Camino has taught me that this is a challenge that I have chosen, words said by a beautiful lady with Multiple Sclerosis who joined us on last May's trip. That each day we are faced with many challenges and instead of worrying about not being able to face them, we simply ask ourselves, what can I do today to help myself get through this? We take it one step at a time, one day at a time. We can't figure out what to do about something that hasn't happened yet, we can only focus on what is happening right now.
Yes of course you have to plan for the future, I wouldn't have any work or adventures if I didn't plan., but instead of over thinking and analysing all that you want to do with your life and career, start trusting yourself a little bit more. When we allow ourselves to be mindfully focused on the present and how we are feeling, we will form a better and deeper understanding of what feels right for us and work towards creating that dream or vision into becoming a reality in our lives. We start with one small step and build on it day by day. Nothing is ever an overnight success, people you see and admire have worked very hard, sometimes for many years to be where they are today and they continue to live their lives and build their dreams. They trust and believe in themselves.
So a little reminder to us all today, life is not a race, we are all winners if we allow ourselves to go at our own pace and take things in our stride. Listen to your intuition, do what creates the most joy in your life, be with the people that bring out the best in you., be your most fabulous unique self and walk tall.
Happy days, Sharon
Holistic Wellness Coach & Author