It Pays To Look at Things Differently

I had a long day at my desk yesterday. I got a lot done, but was feeling a bit spent while trying to decide on a topic for this week’s note to you.I decided to go for a walk to clear my head and move my body. Maybe if I could zone out a bit, inspiration would find me, instead of me searching for it.

No such luck.

Being in a new area, the walk was through foreign territory so I had no choice but to be present. It ended up being a blessing and a curse.

The curse? When I started out, I just wanted to unconsciously walk. I didn’t want to thoughtfully navigate my route. I didn’t want to be present. I wanted to tune out the world and make myself an open vessel for creativity. I guess the universe had other plans.

I had to keep an eye out for poison ivy and thorns. I had to figure out a way across a brook without landing in the water. (While there’s a handy fallen tree across it, my current state of balance is not one I would test right now! My goal is to walk easily across it before winter sets in). I had to choose my directions wisely at crossroads. Is that a path or isn’t it?

The blessing was being fully in the moment to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the beautiful nature trail I was on. It was kinda nice to be forced to focus on just my next step — literally. Although I wasn’t able to have that “great idea in the shower” moment, I instead had a great hour of being in and with nature.

Exercise had fallen by the wayside over these last couple weeks, so it felt good to earn some sweat and work my muscles. I got to spend quality time with Melissa and two of the three sweet dogs that live on the property. I was invited to explore like a child and just play.

In hindsight, I guess it was more of a blessing than a curse. It’s all about perspective.

When has life detoured your plans? While my example is a small one, many of us have experienced much bigger twists and turns. What do you rely on to help stay the course?

Here’s your challenge for this week:

Take your thinking from black or white and delve into the magical gray area in between. Think of any and all options, choices, or approaches you could select to navigate this curveball. How would you help a loved one who was facing a similar situation? How might a perspective shift help you?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on all of this. Join the conversation in the comments below.

Until next week, keep taking those small steps to Live Out Loud.