I'll be honest - I feel at a loss for words this week. I've been bouncing back and forth between sadness, anger, helplessness, and hope.
I know that many people are hurting right now. Some feel left behind, many are angry, and we seem to have reached a boiling point as a society. In the U.S., we feel more divided than ever before - at least in my lifetime.
I had a couple of conversations with fellow yoga teachers yesterday that reminded me that one way I can make a difference right now is to continue to spread messages of love and hope, and provide people with opportunities for connection.
As human beings, we are more alike than we are different. We must not ignore the ways in which we are different - in fact, we should celebrate those differences.
We each have unique gifts and strengths, and although we may not all start from the same place or have the same level of opportunity to openly express ourselves, the world needs all of us to share our voices and shine our lights.
Early in my career, I was introduced to Strengths Finder, now CliftonStrengths, and the idea that focusing on enhancing what we are naturally good at can have a positive impact on our happiness, achievement, and performance. When we are operating at our best, that also affects those around us.
You may already have an idea of your strengths based on what you enjoy doing, what people ask you advice about, and what feels natural to you. If you need some help identifying your gifts, sit quietly for a few minutes and take long, deep breaths.
Think back to your childhood - what activities did you completely lose yourself in? What brought you joy? Fast forward to adulthood - what would your friends say about you? What do people ask for your help with? Grab a journal and make a list of what you are good at and enjoy doing.
Take it a step further and contemplate how you can use your strengths in service to someone who needs help right now. The more we can share our gifts, the more light we can bring into these dark times.
Hozzászólások