High winds and harsh winter weather left thousands of fallen twigs and branches in their wake across our property. The enormity of the task of clearing them felt overwhelming, but I decided to make it into a mindfulness practice. When I go for a walk, I reserve the last portion of it for gathering sticks, loading them into my wheelbarrow, and emptying them into our fire pit. I decided that one wheelbarrow full is enough for each day, and that I will chip away at the task a little bit at a time over time. Soon after deciding to view what was once a chore in this new way, I came across this African Proverb:
“If you wish to move mountains tomorrow, you must start by lifting stones today.”
Big tasks may feel far more daunting than they truly are because we think about them in the context of getting them done in one day. Think about a large responsibility that is weighing on you heavily. How might you deconstruct the magnitude of it by breaking it down into smaller steps over time? Here are a few strategies to consider as you gather the parts to create your desired whole. Compounding Conduits. My personal vision statement is, “A world where women are healed.” In working toward this vision over the last several years I’ve learned that individual healing has a compound effect. When I support one woman on her healing journey, she goes on to support the healing of her friends and family. Some of my clients have developed aligned personal visions and have gone on to gather groups of women for retreats and other experiences to spread the healing to the masses. You don’t have to do it alone. There are others who can contribute to or carry out your work making it so that the impact is multiplied. Retina Reframe. The retina is the part of our eye that is sensitive to light, sends messages to our brains, and forms visual images. What if we symbolically shed light on alternative ways of seeing things that we deem as daunting? For me this looks like transforming looming deadlines into Wine and Work sessions with friends. I’ve also broken down treacherous hour-long workouts into micro movements or exercise snacks. Make it Mindful. Instead of thinking of my stick gathering as yard work, I’ve reframed it as a healing and mindfulness practice. While I’m out there, I’m soaking up the sunshine to increase my vitamin D. I’m breathing deeply to savor the fresh air. I take off my shoes and socks to stand barefoot on the grass and soil to experience the benefits of earthing. I take my time, no rushing, competition, or pressing deadlines to meet. I am fully present with nature and all the benefits that it brings. This week I challenge you to create your gathering. Break down your intimidating intentions into tiny jewels of joy. Manifestation Affirmations I am inviting the light to reframe my vision of the opportunities before me. I am fully present with nature and all the benefits that it brings. I am in community with women who walk alongside me on the journey of healing.
Master Your Mindset to Manifest a Life You Love. Most Sincerely, Monica Marie Jones Your Soul Journey Guide