When challenges appear insurmountable it is natural to feel defeated. Struggling for what seems like an eternity is tiring. We feel defeated and hopeless in this state of mind. This experience usually signifies a junction in your path.
Standing at this crossroads we have a decision to make. We can choose to submit to the feeling that success eludes us. Alternatively we can choose to take a step back for a moment and take a look at our situation through different eyes. Have you ever noticed how what happens when you struggle with one of those epic challenges over a long period of time without any sign of success on the horizon? For me this feels like I am trudging through quicksand or hardening concrete. As a result of my tired mind, I inevitably place myself on a time limit to achieve success. If relief is not experienced by that expiry date, I need to give up and move on.
Impatience and Fear
It occurred to me the other day this perception is another way in which my personal habit of impatience and general fear of discomfort manifests itself. Eventually I remember to distract my mind by going for a nature walk or doing something that enables me to be present. As a result, I am able to step back from unhealthy negatively obsessive thoughts. I find that whilst focussing on the present moment my opinion changes. Suddenly I find that capacity to reflect on the circumstances objectively from numerous angles. With “ah ha” moments opportunities and choices reveal themselves.
Choose
As I consider those opportunities, I close my eyes and take notice of what they individually feel like. Is the potential choice feeling heavy? Am I feeling light, fizzy and expansive? The different sensations provide a compass with which I can navigate my way toward the path that best serves me. For me, I have learnt that if I follow the light, expansive feeling I usually discover things fall into place with ease. Every time this happens I wonder why I wasted all of that emotional energy by worrying obsessively. The panacea to my discomfort was there all along, awaiting my acknowledgement.
It Is Not About Giving Up!
When confronted with an ongoing problem that is not shifting, weakness is often perceived in regard to relinquishing our current path. At least that is what our egos try and tell us. Our souls know better. Those feelings I mentioned and those inspired choices, they come from your soul. When we quiet that egoic mind, we are able to take heed. Pretty awesome stuff, hey!
Give it a go!
Anne McCormack is author of the book, Lovitude: Trying To Calm The Monkey Mind and the award-winning, Peacock Dreaming: The Wisdom Of Flowers.
Seeking the perfect Christmas gift? Your copy of Lovitude: Trying To Calm the Monkey Mind and Peacock Dreaming: The Wisdom Of Flowers awaits. Click on the images to the left for a sneak peek.
Like what you have read here? Check out these other articles written by Anne McCormack:
My Wish For You – Stepping Into Mindfulness
Making Me Happy! A Journey Into Mindfulness
What Makes You Fizz? Living Your Purpose
Re-Learning The Joy Of Living With Journaling and Meditation
Feature photo courtesy of Pixabay
Could you please advise cost and ordering details for the book
“Peacock Dreaming” Beyond Challenges.
Many thanks.
Hi Susan
I don’t have a book titled, Peacock Dreaming Beyond Challenges. However I do have Peacock Dreaming: The Wisdom Of Flowers.
The cost for Peacock Dreaming: The Wisdom Of Flowers is outlined on https://www.thepeacockdreamingblog.com/shop/.
I am not sure where you are from but if you are in New Zealand the cost is $NZD30 plus $NZD8.00 for couriering ($NZD38.00 all up)
Follow the process on the link I gave you (add to cart and take it from there).
Hope this helps.
Kind regards,
Anne