balance

I’ve been a bit stressed out this past week. I’m in the beginning stages of a new job and a new relationship. And, I’ve been fighting this terrible cold for almost two weeks! That’s right; somehow I managed to get a cold… in June. As I’m sure you know from reading my blog, I’m generally a very positive and optimistic person; and, I typically don’t get stressed. In fact, I thrive under pressure. I believe that the reason I’ve been a bit, shall we say “cranky” this past week is because I’ve been forgetting a valuable component of my life approach. I’ve been forgetting to be content with the present. I have these wonderful new beginnings in my life and yet I’m single-mindedly focusing on the various steps and improvements that need to be made. Focusing so much on the future is actually preventing me from enjoying the present.

I believe that I (or anyone) can accomplish anything they desire. I believe in the power of positive thinking. You can have anything you want in life; you just have to stay positive and focus on what you want (instead of what you don’t want). For example, if you’re looking to get in shape, don’t think to yourself “Ugh, I’m so fat.” Instead, think “I want to look like that!” Of course, the next step is to take action to get what you want. Once you know what you want, start doing research to figure out the best way to accomplish your goal and then take action. It’s really quite simple.

BUT, one important part of the equation that I’ve been forgetting is the importance of being happy with the present. At times, I get so wrapped up in my goals- what I want, and who I want to be; that I forget to be grateful for what I have right now and who I am at this very moment. This part is crucial. It’s just as important as taking action.

I’m sure you’ve heard the expression “it’s the journey, not the destination that’s important.” I actually disagree with this quote because I feel that BOTH are equally important. If you don’t focus on what you want, then how are you ever going to get it? You have to think with the end in mind. How else are you going to attain your goals? However, at the same time, if I can’t be at peace with where I am at this very moment- I’ll never be at peace. Since perfection is something unattainable and abstract, I can keep trying to make progress and advance everyday- but there will always be more work to do. If I forget to appreciate myself for who I am today, then I’ll never feel satisfied. I’m looking to find the delicate balance between pushing myself to the limits while taking time to appreciate the ride.