You don’t have to take life the way it comes to you. You can create your life to be what you want.
Choose a Trail
I had the opportunity to stay at a lovely resort in Virginia, which offered several outdoor amenities for its guests. I decided to take advantage of the gorgeous hiking trails. There were two walking trails to choose from. The North Walking Trail was an intermediate hike of 3.5 miles of a steep, rugged terrain for those wanting more of a challenge. The South Walking Trail was a 2.5 mile leisurely hike for those wishing to relax and enjoy the splendors of the forest.
Did I want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the forest or did I want a challenging hike? I wanted both! Each trail inspired me and offered fresh ways of thinking about where I am and want to be in my life. The South Trail led me deeper into the forest, darker and more peaceful where I could get in touch with my dreams. The North Trail was challenging, yet more open allowing in the sunlight. It was an amazing morning of hiking and finding so much clarity! Two hours of pure stillness and reflection. You don't have to take life the way it comes to you. You can create your life to be what you want.
“You don’t have to take life the way it comes to you. You can create your life to be what you want."
Start, Stop, Continue
One of my favorite coaching tools to use with folks is the Start, Stop, Continue exercise. This simple exercise is used to reflect on what’s working, what’s not working, and to commit to taking new actions in your life. You might find the following questions helpful as you work through the exercise:
What are three things you will START doing?
These might be new actions that inspire and excite you. Challenges that will take you out of your comfort zone and help you achieve what you want.
What are three things you will STOP doing?
These could be actions that are no longer serving you, commitments that didn’t turn out to be what you thought, or letting go of the people that are zapping your energy.
What are three things you will CONTINUE doing?
These are things that are working well for you already in your life that you want to stay committed to.
I hope completing this exercise will help you gain insight and put you on the trail you wish to walk. I wish you days of gratitude, curiosity and compassion.