Here’s a quote I read recently and want to share with you now:-
“When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn’t change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn’t change my town and as an older man, I tried to change my family. Now, as an old man, I realize the only thing I can change is myself, and suddenly I realized that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could indeed have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world.”
Unknown Monk
1100AD
Most people I work with who are excited about change in their life also experience being overwhelmed by the thought of what that change involves. When I work with a client we discuss what’s holding them back, what systems need to be put in place – not just to keep their life moving but to keep their life expanding. And almost without exception, that’s when the first hurdle arrives. The magnitude not just of what needs doing in one’s environment but also within oneself comes clearly into focus. The system, the structure to support the system, the time and resources involved in making the change happen, and the support required for it all to happen; this is when overwhelm can rear its head. This is precisely when clarity is allowed a glimpse into reality, and the big picture of where you are and where you want to be, seems an overwhelming journey.
When we embark on change, whatever that change may be, personal or professional that desire, that passion for change comes from a big place inside of us. Focusing on the BIG picture and looking at your current reality in the present can lead to a big overwhelm. It is important to know the big picture and keep it in your mind’s eye, kind of like having a lighthouse that guides you and keeps you going in the right direction. But in order to achieve a goal, get where you want to go, you need to focus on where you are and the path in front of you. Both feet firmly on the ground. The work I do is about creating a path of least resistance for your journey. Your work is to keep the passion in your heart.
I have found that quote of the unknown monk so helpful because for me it reminds me to take care of the details, take care of myself because then my guiding passion and light won’t go out.