Overwhelmed, Clearing the Decks

In both my personal life and in working with clients, a constant theme of modern existence is being overwhelmed. Too many actions need our attention, right now usually, and we all have the same twenty-four hour time limitation. It can add even more stress when one has to decide just what is going to have to go. Letting some things go is the key decision rather than trying to make it all work. Perfectionism takes a personal toll on self esteem while task completion builds confidence.

The rule of thumb that has always appealed is that we can only do five things: one for each finger on one hand. Make the "to-do" list and then ruthlessly prioritize until only five key things need to be done in one day. It doesn't diminish the importance of the other items, it just sets the target for that day. If you finish your five, then continue moving down the list.

Injury - Injustice or Learning Opportunity

Yesterday was going to be an exciting day, it was the first time trying plyometric exercise. Which is adding explosive power elements to build strength. After four years of strength and cardio training, it was time to move to the next level.

The first two rounds of exercise went great, the asthma was bearable, all the joints and muscles were working and that endorphin glow began. Then came the nemesis, the jumping jack squats. After completing two rounds, it seemed as though there was going to be a truce. Then half way through the third round a loud pop indicated the opening round of war had begun as my knee collapsed, refusing to hold my weight.

This wasn't the first time this injury has happened, so the element of surprise is gone. Once the ice quelled the swelling, that negative voice tried to pipe up with, "why now" but was quieted by the sane voice saying, listen to what your body just told you. Why did your body collapse? The answer was weakness.

So, my choice for this experience is to look at the collapse as my body showing me where I need to strength train to become strong and stable, rather than choose to stay weak and prone to injury.

The Answer You Seek

Sometimes we ask for advice or direction and when the answer comes, that voice in our head says "NO" so emphatically we stop listening because it isn't what we want to hear, or contradicts what we believe to be true. We physically hear what the other person is saying, but it isn't the same as listening.

Choose to listen once the question is asked. Evaluate what emotional attachment creates the resistance to change. It isn't the suggested change that is the barrier to moving forward, it's the response.