What about Now
Hello Friends... Happy Monday!
Have you ever felt like the universe was trying to tell you something? A word or topic will pop up over and over again, until you finally say, "OKAY, I get it. Thanks for the reminder."
Since the beginning of January, this word has been hounding me.
Now.
Not before. Not later.
Now.
As in, stop thinking about what happened last week, last month, or last year.
As in, stop playing out the worst case scenario in your head.
As in, how about you just sit in this moment, NOW, and try that on for size.
It's no secret I have the world's most distracted brain, and one of my goals this year is to learn to be more present. I have several meditation apps (love Calm) and I know how much better I feel when I can clear out the clutter and just be.
Not as easy as it sounds.
As a writer, I trained myself on running away with a thought in my head and seeing how much drama I can instill into it. I blame years of watching The Young and the Restless for that fun fact.
The thing is, when I stop the crazy voice in my head who likes to point out all that's wrong (or could be) in my life, then I actually have a moment of peace. I suddenly have clarity about what writing project I'm working on. Even reading is more enjoyable, because my mind doesn't have to compete with the words on the page.
In other words, everything is better without the mental chatter.
The main reason I'm writing about this today, is because any craft that you choose - whether it be writing, painting, or even yoga - all of them will benefit from having a clear mind. A mind that isn't hell bent on seeing the worst all the time. A mind that notices how wonderful the cookies smell baking in the oven. A mind that notices the slant of the shadow from the sun shining through the window. A mind that's drawn into the most intriguing plot twist.
Again, this isn't easy. I highly recommend getting an app like Calm or Headspace - both are great - and offer free trials. It won't happen overnight, but if you notice it a few times a day, then you're on your way to a better use of your mind. If you notice yourself getting worked up over a thought in your head, stop, and notice what is really going on around you. Instead, see if you can use your 5 senses to engage in the moment.
Climb out of your mind and back into your body, even if it feels uncomfortable. Turn toward the feeling not away from it. Treat yourself the way you would treat a small child who is lost-because that part of you is. ~ Geneen Roth, This Messy Magnificent Life: A Field Guide.
P.S. if you haven't read that book, do so. It's life-changing good.
I know this wasn't exactly a writing lesson, but rather a life-lesson. I love to offer both. And the fact that you are going to clear the clutter in your head, will only mean that you are going to be a better artist, not to mention human.
I will admit I had so much fun writing this post, mostly because I've managed to stay focused the entire time. When I write from this place of clarity, it's the most me I can offer the world. And it feels pretty damn good.
I hope you have a great week...
xo, MJ