The time, space and peace I’ve been granted, albeit through painful circumstance, is fermenting a deep-rooted seed of creativity, confidence and purpose.
It’s a gift, to be in the present. So why, do we – myself included, choose to replay the past and construct the future so much?
The past is done, you can replay it but you can’t change it, you know – like your favorite show you stream repeatedly as if you’ve never seen it before?
The future, is unwritten. No matter what story you construct about the future, chances are – the reality will be totally different.
So, “how about now?” *Drake Voice*
Grounding Yourself
For anyone experiencing anxiety, you are your own worse critic. Also know, that you can’t believe every thought you have. But, what about what others say? Me, God – I tend to take things so personally.
Storytime…
“You were passive while advising a student!” – My supervisor
My thoughts: “She’s right, I am passive. I am void of emotion. I am incapable. I should just apologize”.
My reality: “I am dealing with grief and a huge workload, I wasn’t passive, I did my job and chose not to invade the student’s personal life. However, if the student chose to open up to me, I would have listened fully.”
Actionables For The Anxious
To stay grounded in the present moment, I try this (and you should to):
- Sort through the blame – do you believe your version of events, theirs or both?
- What was your role in whatever went wrong in the past and whatever plagues you about the future?
- How can you be better? Remember, you can only control yourself. You can not control what others do.
Life isn’t a Netflix series, you shouldn’t be rewatching old episodes. Instead, create new arcs in the present moment. Also, worry less about how the show will end in future seasons. It’s a gift, to be in the present.
Be kind to yourself and others, if not for any reason, for Karma.
Discuss!