Adding Positivity
Good evening, dear readers! Welcome to another dive into the philosophy of living without definitive expectations, a concept I like to call "Fishing Without Bait." This idea is all about embracing life in the moment and truly being present in each experience. Just as in fishing, where we may not always catch something, the act itself is where the value lies.
The Journey of Being Present: When we set out on the water—or in life—without the burden of specific expectations, we are less likely to set ourselves up for disappointment. Instead, we focus on the process, the moment-to-moment experiences that define our journey. It's about participating fully in our lives, regardless of the outcomes.
Facing Doubt and Inner Critics: Take my own experience, for example. When I decided to start my own business, I encountered many skeptics. But interestingly, the loudest naysayer turned out to be in my own head. Those inner critics can be relentless, repeating negative thoughts that can keep us up at night. Yet, it's crucial to remember that we can choose not to attend our own argument parties. Yes, we might get invited, but participating is entirely up to us!
The Buddha's Lesson on Insults: This brings me to a story about the Buddha that illustrates how to handle negativity gracefully. One day, as the Buddha walked through a village, a rude young man began hurling insults at him. Instead of responding, the Buddha simply smiled. After the man stormed off, the Buddha explained to his disciples that if someone offers you a gift and you refuse it, the gift remains with the giver. This story beautifully highlights that the source of negativity often lies within and that we have the power to choose our reactions.
Choosing Our Battles and Influences: Just as we have choices in how we respond to negativity, we also have choices in who we surround ourselves with. If your passion is golf, would you join a bowling team? Similarly, why endure the company of negative people who drain your energy? Instead, choose to spend time with those who uplift and support you.
Adding Positivity Rather Than Subtracting Negativity: Instead of focusing solely on removing negative aspects from our lives, why not start by adding positive ones? For instance, if someone's diet is poor, rather than immediately cutting out all the junk food, why not start by adding a glass of water to each meal? Over time, these positive additions can create significant changes.
What Can I Add: As we wrap up today, I want to leave you with a thought that resonates deeply with me: "It's not so much what you can take away from a situation, but what can you add to it." This approach not only applies to personal growth but extends to our interactions with others. The next time you find yourself in a challenging situation or around negative people, ask yourself what positivity you can bring to the table.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of mindfulness and personal growth. Stay tuned for more insights into how we can all live a more fulfilling and mindful life. Remember, it's not about the fish we catch; it's about how we enjoy the fishing.
