Smile!

 

This past week I've been reflecting on attitude and how much my attitude can factor into the overall tone for the day and what I am able to accomplish. 

The attitude of "Just do it" usually works for me but not always. I find it mostly a surface fix to initially get me going and often that is all I need to ignite motivation and engagement. This is also the attitude that propels me forward and keeps me stepping out of my comfort zone with or with out anxiety present. As I am getting back on track though, I still am having moments when the "Just do it" attitude is not enough. So I ask myself why?

If I'm going to step outside my comfort zone or "Just do it" when it comes to my training, I believe there is a another layer to consider with regards to attitude. A certain measure of happiness, enthusiasm and joy needs to be factored in. This can be a conscious attitude adjustment implemented at the start to help with motivation. Flipping a switch and adding a simple smile at the beginning can change the blahs or indifference and even reduce my anxiety and help propel me forward in a more positive way. I've tried this and I know it works! 

I am becoming more aware of the toll of living with chronic anxiety has taken and how it has shaped my life over the years. Don't get me wrong, there have been many accomplishments and numerous times when I successfully said yes to opportunities that were outside my comfort zone. Sometimes it is easier and other times it's a constant inner battle with myself. It's that inner battle that has the ability to diminish joy and happiness. This is because anxiety tends to put me in a type of survival mode. And it is difficult to have enthusiasm for something when you are thinking about surviving and just making it through. There is still a feeling of accomplishment at the end, but something is lost along the way.

I have learned the importance of balance in everything. I say yes to as much as I can and give myself permission to say no when it starts to become overwhelming. I am still learning where this optimum balance point is but I do feel that there has been progression in the right direction. And I am learning the value of a smile and how it can actually create positive changes both internally and externally. I am slowly moving out of the overthinking, anxious, cautious operating mode into a more gentle, joyful and inquisitive mode of being. 

Namaste everyone!