“If it is not a mess, it is not progress.” - Robin Sharma
Progress is messy and non-linear. The sooner we embrace this truth and make peace with it, the more peaceful would be our journey to betterment.
Sometimes in our desire to see positive changes, we lose sight of the uncertainties of life as well as of our fallible human nature. Both of which can pull us down & prevent us from reaching our goals in a straightforward manner.
Ways to deal with unexpected circumstances that hinder progress:
A. Focus on what you can control:
“You can't calm the storm. So stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.” - Timber Hawkeye
Recently when I was shifting house, I didn't get any time to do my workouts. I just focused on staying active and nailing a few lifestyle habits like adequate hydration and nutrition. And this is typically the advice I give to my clients as well - to focus on what they can do in situations where they are unable to get a focused workout in.
Circumstances don't always shape up according to our convenience. But if we are mindful, we can get adept at learning to work around circumstances.
B. Do your best, whatever that best is for you, at any given moment:
As long as you are doing your best, you have nothing to beat yourself over. Some days that best might be just taking a few deep breaths to stay calm.
And that's ok.
C. Quit the comparison:
“I am a slow Walker, but I never walk back.” - Abraham Lincoln
Looking around it may seem like everyone is getting ahead of you, while all you can see are stumbling blocks impeding your progress.
Comparing your journey with others will only leave you disconnected to the beauty of your own. Instead of comparison, train your mind to look at your unique life experiences as gifts to grow and evolve.
D. Intend to be kind to yourself:
“The most difficult times for many of us are the ones we give ourselves.” - Pema Chodron
While we cannot expect everyone in the world to be nice to us, we definitely should not be the ones to cause ourselves suffering.
A daily self love and self forgiveness practice can go a long way in helping you establish a positive & loving relationship with yourself. This will be especially useful when situations are trying.
I am sure none of these pointers are new to you. The question is, how many of these have you been able to consistently apply in your life? I hope you will use this post as a reminder to :)
What are your ways of coping with stumbling blocks to your goals? Post in comments or write back.
First of all, congratulations to moving to your new home.
Coming back to the topic for the week: Four different topics, with very interesting write-up and connect. Well articulated with experiences.
Very true and v nicely written