On my fridge, there is a magnet with one of my favorite quotes accompanied by some poetic commentary.  (Anyone know how to properly credit the source when using random magnet commentary?)

[Quote]:  “Happiness is a journey, not a destination.” –Souza

[Commentary]:  “For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin – real life.  But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid.  At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life.  This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness.  Happiness is the way.  So treasure every moment you have and remember time waits for no one.”

It’s a bit melodramatic.  Then again, I could die today, which indeed feels dramatic. 

The past is gone, the future may never come – now is all we have – totally logical, right?  So what makes it so darn hard to live in the present moment? 

Do you want to explore this idea in your own life?

For me, the challenge is that being truly present forces me to be authentic, and sometimes being authentic doesn’t feel good.  For example, yesterday I committed to “being extraordinary” while working.  And then I hit a hurdle.  Websites and wireless networks were misbehaving, and my ever-steepening learning curve no longer inspired me. 

So, what was my initial response to the external stress?  “Hmm, I think I need some sweet potato chips.” 

Next thing I knew, an hour had passed and I was stuffed full of quick-grab food, still annoyed with my work.  Whoops.  This was not extraordinary. 

In hindsight, the events are clear:  Kate hit a challenge and her present-moment authenticity left the building.  I wanted to escape my feelings of stress, and chose a distraction.  Being authentic and present would have meant acknowledging the challenge and my emotions around it (e.g., I am not a computer expert and I am feeling frustration). 

Being present would have allowed me to return to my commitment of being extraordinary and choose an action in alignment with that commitment.  (Being present also would have meant scanning for hunger before inhaling munchies). 

On the bright side, I am aware of what happened yesterday.  This has not always been the case.

As I continue experimenting with the tools and techniques for being authentically happy, the gap between reaction and awareness shrinks.  There even are times when the gap is so small I don’t have time to open the chip bag!     

Are you ready to strengthen your ability to respond to hurdles? 

Do you want to experience your obstacles in a more balanced, transformational way?

Give yourself 75 minutes Wednesday evening to explore authentic happiness with us.  You have my word it will be time well-spent.  If you disagree, you are entitled to a full refund, no questions asked.
Add Comment