Cultivating Mindfulness to Transform Self-Limiting Patterns
Action is the antidote for fear.
Are you letting fear and self-doubt hold you back from accomplishing your true desires?
Approximately 95% of our brain activity is unconscious, including habits, patterns, personalities and beliefs. We are basically living on auto-programming that influences our behavior. Routines can be good, however, if they are self-limiting or not challenging our full potential then it could be holding us back subconsciously from becoming our highest self. We can be our harshest critic or our own biggest cheerleader. The truth is most of the time the voice within is terribly critical of all that we do (or don’t do) when in reality we are doing pretty darn well each day we just are not reaching our full potential because we are stuck in these unconscious patterns.
Our true self, our true nature, is grounded in self-trust, minimizing threats and optimizing our sense of security. It appreciates taking risks because it knows that is how we expand and evolve into our highest being. We need to quiet that inner critic and lighten up on ourselves. We need to learn to laugh at ourselves and not take ourselves so seriously. We all mess up, but at least when we take risks we open the door to new opportunities.
It is never too late to go for your dreams and to try new things. Start now, at any age, with what you have and have faith that momentum will build, and you will naturally attract what you need based on the energy you put out. Do not wait for the perfect conditions because you will never be fully ready. Let your vision be your inspiration and let your inspiration lead to the intention for creation. You are worthy.
Cultivating mindfulness is transformational in reducing stress, increasing clarity, and creating balance in life. This will help you maintain your vision and stay on track with your action plan in accomplishing your dreams. It is critical to draw more awareness into our consciousness in order to be more present in our lives and live with intention.
Five Simple Steps to Increase Mindfulness
- Focus on the present moment. Whatever you are doing, be all there.
- Observe your thoughts and feelings free from judgment.
- Several times throughout the day check in with your breath and scan your body to notice where you might be holding stress. Breathe in deeply through your nose and out deeply through your nose.
- Go outside. Walk, listen, and look around. Notice what you see, hear, and smell. Connect your senses with nature.
- Notice when your mind wanders to the past or the future and re-direct its back to the present moment.
We are all works in progress. All we can do is wake up and try to be the best version of ourselves each day. It does no good to compare ourselves to anyone else. The key is to observe our thoughts, our emotions, and each moment as they unfold free from judgement so that we can learn as we go. From there, we can reflect on how we can do better moving forward.
It is so important to recognize that everything is temporary. All of those uncomfortable feelings are necessary in order to grow. If we stayed within the comfort zone we may never grow. We must test our abilities even if that means failing from time to time. Choose love over fear. Action is the antidote to fear. Simply keep moving.Sharpen your strengths and focus on those rather than your weaknesses. By focusing on our strengths, we build confidence and resilience.
It is also important to recognize the importance of human connection. Rather than letting the ego stand in the way, ask for help when needed and delegate tasks. The greatest leaders know how to manage a team that can help them and to surround themselves with other inspiring people. We all have the same intrinsic needs. We want to feel accepted and appreciated. We are all one in the end. Recognize your divine purpose and allow that to guide you on your mission. Do all things with kindness and compassion and you will succeed. Remember, progress is better than perfection. Life is not linear. Sometimes, we take one step forward and two steps back, but as long as we keep moving we will get there, eventually. Never give up on your dreams. It is okay to change directions or make adjustments, but always honor your spirit.