More than Motivation
Discipline is the key that unlocks transformation. It requires commitment to your goals, even when motivation wanes. Doing what you ought to do gets you to where you want to be. Make and honor commitments to yourself. Even when you are tired. Even when you're busy. Even when you don’t want to. And with that said, embrace the idea that it’s okay to pivot when necessary.
A lot has been going on lately. School has been busy, my kiddos have been busy, I have let go of some situations that have been zapping my energy, and I have been tired. I have goals I have been working on, but I also have some immediate needs and only so much time to do ALL THE THINGS. How do you know when to let go, or double down and focus?
There is a balance you need to master between keeping your internal commitments to yourself, and honoring when you are fatigued, run down, or need to use your time for something else that is equally important. The key is, if you choose a nap over a workout, or a walk rather than meeting up with friends, and you make the decision from a place of self love,; honor your choice, and eventually get back to your routine. When you have built this trusting relationship with yourself and you follow through on your commitments regularly, then when you do miss one workout or replacing chores with a bath it will not derail you from your end goals. I did that today. I was extra tired from a wonderfully fun, yet busy weekend. I had a lot of fun, spent time with quality friends, but also had to strip all of the beds and wash a million stuffed animals because my son got sick. I had plans for a workout and some other chores today, but my students were extra needy and I came home more tired than I had anticipated. What did I do? I pivoted due to fatigue, and resting allowed me to write this. I would call that a win!
What I find is that giving myself permission to focus on my needs is invigorating and gives me the energy or inspiration I need to get back at it without the burnout that comes with pushing past your limits and running yourself down. I am also not wasting energy feeling guilty about skipping a plan. Your journey is a reflection of your choices, and every step contributes to how you feel and how you feel about you! What do you need at this moment? Really. And, can you allow yourself to have it from a place of love and acceptance and without guilt or rumination? I have built a strong relationship with myself and I know that this new version of me is committed to my highest good. I trust that I will get the workout in tomorrow, and taking a walk allowed me the energy I needed to get the chores done. With that said, there are other days that I am tired and I know that working out will give me the boost of energy I need to get through the rest of my duties and obligations with grace so I have time and energy for the things I really love, boxing, playing with my boys, reading a juicy book!
Ultimately, your life is shaped by your everyday actions and choices. It is built on the kindness you show, the courage you demonstrate, and the purpose you embody whether it is directed at yourself or others. Embrace your journey with open arms, knowing that each moment contributes to how you feel overall. When you honor your needs, or double down on self care, you will better be of service to all of the people that you love and serve. Life is about the journey—so walk it with intention. Prioritize your self care, plan when you will rest, move, create, connect and reflect. What echo do you leave with others? How do you want to show up for yourself and for those around you?
Next week we will talk about discipline in a way that maybe you haven’t thought about before… More than Motivation: Cultivating Discipline, Gratitude, and Success
Until then, be well!
