Resolutions
How many times have we promised ourselves, "Never, never, never, ever, never, ever, ever will I do that again"? I know I've set these firm convictions more times than I can count, resolving every day, sometimes multiple times a day, that I’m going to change something fundamentally about my habits or lifestyle. Yet, here I am, exploring the idea of creating a life by choice, not just stumbling upon it. If you're ready to chase white rabbits and dive into the unexpected, buckle up—this is about challenging life, not just living it.
A Time of Reflection: Even though it’s just a few days shy of the New Year as I write this, my co-host, Mike, reminds me that in the grand scheme, it’s always "right here, right now." The end of one year and the start of another often feels like hitting the reset button—a time to start anew or improve on the existing. Mike and I often discuss the idea of a reset, recalling a podcast we did on this very topic.
The Trap of Resolutions: As we look back, the resolutions made in the past, like eating better, being more organized, or being more efficient, all seem grounded yet ambitious. But then there are the unrealistic ones: losing 50 pounds, saving a million dollars, climbing Mt. Everest, or learning Mandarin overnight. These are the resolutions that attempt to force results, aligning circumstances unrealistically with our ambitions. This is where we must reconsider our perspective—are we looking at the smiling face of a horse, or something less appealing?
The Essence of Fishing Without Bait: The concept of Fishing Without Bait often gets misunderstood. It’s not about having no goals or wandering aimlessly through life; it's a lifestyle choice aimed at living mindfully and impactfully. Instead of saying, "I need to, I must, I have to, I should, and I can't," we focus on setting intentions—goals and plans born from our deepest thoughts and desires.
Setting Intentions with Full-Impact Mindfulness: To set intentions effectively, we start by quieting and centering our minds, using our breath to ground ourselves. We articulate these intentions out loud—like an audiobook of our lives, holding the intention firmly in our minds, and then we smile, laugh, envision, and repeat as necessary. Attaching emotions to these intentions magnifies their power.
Making Choices and Taking Action: Remember, life results from the choices we make. If you don’t like something about your life, it's within your power to make better choices. As we often say, setting intentions is like uncovering a superpower. What's it worth to you? Understand your motivation—whether it's for yourself or someone else. Set clear goals, jot them down, make an action plan, and importantly, act on them.
Every Day Is a New Beginning: Although this discussion coincides with the end of the calendar year, every day offers a fresh start. Tomorrow, why can’t it be the best day of your life? Embrace the mantra: I’m clean and sober all the time, my thoughts are strong and clear, and I’m confident in the decisions I make. As we wrap up, remember the license to live we offer through our program—your permission to create a life worth living.
Living Mindfully: Unplug, take up fishing, and try Fishing Without Bait for a truly mindful experience. Treat everyone with courtesy and respect, perform acts of kindness for yourself and others, and forgive—others and yourself. Remember, smiles cost nothing.
Be right here, right now. Namaste.
