This is a catalyst for change

You realize you have a pattern of behavior that’s no longer working for you. You’re ready and willing to change it... but where to start?

Begin with awareness. Awareness is a catalyst for change. 

For example, you realize you say yes whenever you are asked to help with or do something. You don’t even think about it, you say yes, and figure out how to incorporate it into your already full schedule, later. As a result, you don’t have time for the things you want to do in your life, and you feel resentful. Now, you’re ready to stop saying yes, and start saying no. Congratulations! Begin with awareness. 

Awareness starts within.

Meditation cultivates awareness. Breath meditation, in particular, slows the breath, which slows the mind so that you can take those pauses to become increasingly aware. I recommend Box Breathing, in fact, it’s been one of my go to meditations as of late. It helps you slow your breath while giving you the breath, a visualization, and counting to focus on so you can quiet your active mind. Practice it for 3-5 minutes in the morning or evening. It’s even helpful if you have a hard time sleeping. As you meditate, notice the pauses and what happens there. Take a moment after your meditation for journaling or reflection, this will help expand your awareness.  

Next, notice when you’re asked to do something. Take a breath (pause), and notice your thoughts and how you feel. Giving yourself the pause, and having awareness of your thoughts, creates moments where you can avoid impulsively saying yes, and actually consider what you want. 

Start with this awareness practice. Over time, the information you receive in the pauses will inform you of what you want to say yes or no to. You get to choose, and your choice gives you even more information. You create a feedback loop within yourself so that your choices and decisions align with who you are, what you want and your core beliefs. Through this, you no longer react impulsively, you respond intentionally, with love and respect for yourself. 

Love,
Jodh

Image by Petra