Pause, Steep, Breathe
You may wonder, 'How can I leave it all behind if I am just coming back to it? How can I make a new beginning if I simply return to the old?' The answer lies in the return. You will not come back to the 'same old thing.' What you return to has changed because you have changed. Your perceptions will be altered. You will not incorporate into the same body, status, or world you left behind. The river has been flowing while you were gone. Now it does not look like the same river. (Steven Foster)
In a recent conversation with my Mister, he pointed out something I've known to be true my entire life. I write about it often and you may find pieces of yourself in my story.
I tend to bite off more than I can chew.
Eager aspirations, best intentions, and ambition-infused plans are my weakness. Mediocrity makes me uncomfortable. Not finishing a project—or just putting forth 80% effort—is not in my nature.
This combination of perfectionism and internal drive has been a great gift. The places I've been, the relationships I've built and the things I've done are a result of that hunger.
"...but not at the expense of happiness. Of enjoying your life," he reminded me.
He makes a valid point.
I am a busy lady—and while stopping to smell the roses is something I try to pencil in, it often feels ironic and contrived. I want gratitude, mindfulness and joy to become practices deeply rooted in my daily life. I know this will take time, attention and intention.
I've never been in the practice of saying no. I'm not one to take time for unscheduled bliss and unstructured exploration. As someone who always wants to do more, be more and share more of myself, this may prove to be a lesson for lifelong learning.
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I'm putting the blog on pause. I will be posting less frequently, with a bigger focus on reading, connecting, tweeting and keeping a light touch on the happenings. I'm taking time to let my tea steep. Soaking in the tiny moments that make up this life. I'm letting my red wine breathe. Spending time with friends, family, my Mister and my thoughts.
Image Credit: Chris Chavez Yoga at Spanish Banks via lululemon athletica
