Not today
There is an unspoken phrase that regularly runs through the thoughts of humans. Toddlers are experts at expressing this. Teens have multiple ways of making this known. Adults get to think it but don’t let the actual words exit their mouths. The words “I don’t have to” answer questions that are rarely asked. This phrase ignores the need to be an outward people pleaser. That alone gets my vote. Because humans react with hurt feelings when they face denial, the truth gets filtered. Think about when your younger self was told to clean your bedroom. Better yet, think about how you spoke to yourself about cleaning your bedroom today. This evergreen response pops up. It is very easy to make a list of why something lacks the need to be completed. Sometimes it is just because we are not in the mood. Yes, feelings apply in these scenarios. There is also self-empowerment in this statement. Control gives the illusion of determination. That is sexy stuff. It also allows us that little act of rebellion just before we go ahead and do the actual thing that two seconds ago we were shoving aside. Perhaps it is like that first sip of icy cold water we drink on a scorching hot day. The second and third gulp rarely live up to the relief of being able to satisfy our thirst as genuinely. These buffers are there to help us transition. If they can reduce any negative emotions about being made to complete a task, they are welcome.
You are Extraordinary!
Week 20: Make me
Think about the last time you bullied yourself to do something. I was surprised, ashamed and taken back when I heard words coming out of my own mouth about seeing a historical site of some significance. I was tired and physically cranky. Luckily, I was with someone who knew me well enough to take my toddler hand and get into the line. Of course, this turned out to be one of the most touching parts of the trip. Getting to experience the unbelievable beauty of this venerated object will live inside of me for my own ridiculous initial reaction and will serve as a reminder to pay attention to experts who know what impresses a modern-day human. This task requires you to notice when your thoughts decline to participate. It doesn’t even matter if the act is for your own good. How does it feel to not want something but still have to go along? Try not to let it feel like a betrayal in any way. That’s the real trick.
