Have you ever noticed how many people are enamored with sunrises and sunsets or the elegance of a plane taking off?  Or how much you look forward to certain events every year, whether it’s a change of season, a holiday you love. Maybe it’s an annual gathering of family or friends, a sporting event you enjoy every year.  Aside from the pleasure we get from the actual experience – sunsets are gorgeous, being with loved ones feels (for the most part) wonderful, watching a team you’re passionate about compete is thrilling, I’m convinced that these experiences give us something else.  And the past several months of the pandemic has confirmed this.

These moments connect us with what endures.  There has been so much unexpected, unplanned for, so many curveballs thrown at us.  For many, it has been the most uncertainty you’ve faced in your whole life, which can cause anxiety and feelings of distress in general.  I want to remind you that sometimes you have to look within to create the comfort and security that comes from a sense of constancy, for you to know firsthand the calm that comes with grounding yourself in what is definite.

A friend of mine who truly gets this posted on Facebook today that in spite of all the current chaos, she is doubling down on kindness and love.  She is seeking opportunities as she moves through her days.  I think she’s doing even more than spreading love, though.  She’s intentionally rooting herself in what hasn’t changed, what remains certain no matter what happens around her.  Know that we all can do this.  It’s a powerful way for you to improve your mood and have greater peace of mind.

How it’s done.

Approach with confidence.  Tell yourself that you can create: it’s worth your time and attention to do this.

Plan it.  The biggest payoffs usually require us to be intentional.  They don’t just happen because we want them to.  Ask yourself, “What specific action can I take?” 

Connect with others.  Are you in regular contact with the most important people in your life?  How about that person you’ve meant to get in touch with?  That’s your mind giving you a clue to what can enrich you.  Do it now.

On the subject of your mind, listen for the moments that suggest action.  Sometimes we dismiss things that could be meaningful… I don’t have the time, the money, or right now, social distancing won’t allow that.  Our minds have a way of showing us the experiences that fill us up because it remembers what’s good for us.  We’re not talking about the “I should do that” stuff that is about obligation.  I’m referring to the things you’ve been putting off that could really add to your life right now.  Is there a version of that you can make happen… now?

How can you get started?

• Get out into Nature.  Follow your gut if you’re feeling liking exploring something new or heading to a familiar place that never gets old.

• Pick up your instrument if you play one, especially if it’s been a while.

• Decorate for the holidays.  There are so many coming up to choose from.

• Make something… anything.

• Prayer, or your version of it if you’re more spiritual than religious.  My friend recently got into woodworking.  In addition to maintaining his sanity, he has become an artisan of beautiful pieces that he sources from going into the woods.  Crazy good or what?

• I love what Tony Robbins has to say about ways you can create certainty in your own life: especially his Mandate #6. (https://www.tonyrobbins.com/mind-meaning/certainty-uncertain-times/)

I am joyfully amazed when I hear how people listen to their internal dialogue, and they may not even realize it.  They’re just really good at hearing from within and being open to trying things.  They know that not every effort will hit the bullseye, but are wise enough to live Wayne Gretzky’s motto that “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”.

I’m going to challenge you one step further. As you strive to find your new center, inspire your loved ones to do the same.  Make your journey a community one.  Everyone is struggling, and many don’t know how or where to find help.  As my friend said…

It’s time to double down on kindness and love.