We've been building awareness for an important reason: to help you make your life as meaningful as possible. This is where being present meets values. But we don't expect (or even want) you to be 100 percent present every moment of the day. Instead, work on being more aware and engaged where it counts-such as in your relationships and at work.
To be emotionally responsive and receptive in our relationships we must see and hear our loved ones with our whole being. When your friend is going through a breakup, listening fully is more soothing than giving advice. When your children are hurt, holding them is more healing than rushing for an ice pack. And when your partner tells you there's a hawk outside, it's a good idea to take a look.
Work is another area where showing up mindfully can be hard. We spend a lot of time doing work-jobs, domestic work, and other productive activities. When we have a stressful interaction, or an unpleasant task, we might be tempted to get angry, disengage, or procrastinate. Being present in relationships and work is a lot like high-intensity interval training; even short spurts of effort will have a big impact on your psychological flexibility!
Daily Writing: More Mindful in Love and Work
Write down the people who really matter to you.
How do you miss their bids for attention? How can you show up more wholeheartedly? What's one thing you can do today to be more present with those you love?
What about your work? How can you show up more fully? When do you tend to be unfocused or unproductive? How might you be more present at your work today?
Today's Practice
Today, practice being present with someone you love, with work, or with something else that matters to you. Notice when your attention moves away and bring it back over and over again.
Comments