My husband and I recently joined a gym. I admit he dragged me there kicking and screaming. I think I even rolled my eyes. I am absolutely intimidated by the gym. All of the equipment that I have no clue how to use. I am still traumatized by a previous assault that I experienced at the hands of a stair machine. That is a story for another day. So, when we began going to the gym, I chose what was safe for me – the treadmill. The very first time I got on it, it felt less of a chore than before. I always challenge myself to be curious, so I began wondering why I was loving this so much more than in times past. Simple. The counter on the treadmill was counting down from an hour instead of up. Every time I looked at the digital display, I did not see how far I had to go starting from zero. The pressure was off. Now, I get on there and breeze through the time getting to the end of my workout amazed that I am already done. Mind games!!!
Isn’t it amazing how a simple shift can change our whole experience?
It is kind of like climbing up a hill. The uphill climb can be treacherous. Every step is a challenge. You stop, bend over, put your hands on your knees, and look up. Or, it might feel like climbing up a slide on the slide part, rather than using the steps. You see how far you have to go, and you just might quit before you get to the top. But, once you reach the top, coming back down feels so good.
I am sharing because this opened my eyes to something that has been a game changer for me in every area of my life.
I think we have all been conditioned to see the climb as admirable - climbing the ladder of success. I no longer focus on the climb. I focus on already being on top. I focus on the descent. It helps me to enjoy the process so much more. I imagine being a kid at the top of a slide, hands in the air, joyful as I slide down…weeeeeeee!!! It makes me excited to climb back up the stairs to the top again.
Writing a book, I don’t think of blank pages. I think of seeing the book on the shelf at the bookstore. I imagine being on top of the hill. Every word, every paragraph, every chapter is a step down the hill back to the next book.
Weight loss. I don’t think UGGGH I HAVE FORTY POUNDS TO LOSE. I think of being on top of the hill. Every workout, every healthy meal, every best choice is a hands in the air down the slide again milestone.
Whatever IT is…see it as done. Enjoy the descent instead of dreading the climb.
I don’t know who needs to hear this today. Maybe it’s you? How can you reframe what you are working on to make it more enjoyable – fun even?
Maybe find a slide?
Until Next Time,
C
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