The Value of New Beginnings
Too often I have found myself comfortable with parts of my life, thought patterns, feelings and situations, but these need to be shaken and stirred. Growth in both personal and business life doesn't come from remaining still, we have to push hard, challenge, reflect and analyse.
Thinking back over times when new beginnings have happened, it has normally come in a moment of impulsiveness or a timing that has made me think 'what more is out there'. One that stands strong in my memory was the 2011 earthquakes, we all went through a major life moment in our own way and I know that if it hadn't of happened I wouldn't be where I am today. Where I would be I am unsure, but I do know it would have been fun, as has been this last 5 years, the travel, people, challenges, fun and learnings I have made have been something I can't put a price on.
As I think about my latest new beginning and feel the excitement, I believe that it is going to open up a new positivity, to further enhance the changes that have happened in the last 6 months and as a friend said bring more zen into my life.
Zen
One way to think of zen is this: a total state of focus that incorporates a total togetherness of body and mind. Zen is a way of being. It also is a state of mind. Zen involves dropping illusion and seeing things without distortion created by your own thoughts.
"Sun is warm, grass is green."
We all need to look at what is holding us back, is it our thoughts, our surroundings, beliefs or even our dreams, and to challenge ourselves as to what that is! If we know that our behaviours aren't normal, then what is causing it, is it internal or external. I truly believe in the saying "Everything in life happens for a reason, a season or a lifetime!", and just like the seasons in the year and the clothes from last season (or the one before, or even before that...) we need to make sure we are clearing the way for the new to flourish.
As I sit here typing looking at half of my belongings in boxes going wow, 5 years ago I moved with two suitcases, a camera and a laptop ready for all the adventures ahead of me. Now, I'll be moving with the help of a mover and excited for the new adventures ahead of me. It has also been very cleansing and even though I haven't gone to the extremes of my lovely friend Grace, I believe in her realisation of "The less stuff I have, the happier I become. So less really is more." is very apt, and as I have removed belongings or clothing and donated to the charity bins, it has made me feel lighter.
So I will continue to lighten myself, from burdens, thoughts, memories, and those parts that hold me back, as if we don't free up that energy then how can we continue to move forward! We should always remember with fondness the past that has made us who we are today, and let that help us to mould our new beginnings, for it is only through learning and reflection that we can continue to grow.
The greatest achievement was at first and for a time a dream.
The oak sleeps in the acorn, the bird waits in the egg, and in the highest vision of the soul a waking angel stirs. Dreams are the seedlings of realities.
James Allen
I have this print framed and love looking at it!
