Just like the foods we ought to eat, the way we live our lives should be raw, whole, pure, authentic, and transparent! This aptly named monthly email series is chock full of insight and inspiration that will equip you with the tools to live a life more true to who are, so that you can harness your power and step into your purpose as a unique individual! So let's strip it down to the core and get...
In the Raw!
ISSUE NO.4 | APRIL 2016
Just Start
Prioritize Your Passions
There's no time like the present, <<First Name>>!
I've been struggling lately with feeling like I don't have enough hours in the day. My check-list continues to grow. I begin with the "have-to's," expecting to get to the "want-to's" in the afternoon or evening, and after some reflection, I have come to a couple of realizations:
Busyness and productivity are two different things. Just because I'm running around like a chicken with my head cut off early on in the day, does not always mean I'm being productive.
Procrastination paralyzes. Maybe you can relate. It's easy to check off chores and errands and make up "tasks" to feel like you're getting something done. These "tasks" are often a method of putting off the more important items on your list—possibly because they are more challenging, considered leisure, and therefore matter less.
Have-to vs. Want-to
Let's take a look at the activities and practices that feed our souls—leisure. The very activities that we deem as "fluff" that get put on the back-burner can be extremely important and giving them priority can benefit our mental and emotional well-being.
When we put our true passions on hold, two things happen:
The imbalance can cause us to become anxious, stressed, and depressed. There is a void that needs to be filled.
If/when we finally get around to our passions, we only have half the amount of fuel that we need to do them well.
Who wants to feel weighed down by a bunch of have-to's and starved for the want-to's and get-to's?!
Don't worry! I've got some simple solutions that help me whenever I fall into the busyness-procrastination cycle!
Steps to Fulfillment
Slow Down - There are always going to be "nagging" have-to's that can't wait. Instead of rushing, move slowly, focus on your breath, and be fully present in whatever you are doing.
Flip Your Perspective - Be like the janitor at NASA who, when asked what he did for a living, simply said, "I work for NASA." It's all about perspective! He knew that he was contributing in his own small way to putting a man on the moon and took pride in his part. He loved his job inside and out!
Less is More - Give yourself one "have-to" and one "want-to" task for the day; do them both well—the rest can wait. If you have time after those are complete, then you can think about what else is possible.
Prioritize - Trim the fat. Determine which tasks are filler and which are actually necessary. Then, experiment with prioritizing a "want-to" first thing in your day, and see what that feels like.
Trust Yourself - Think less and feel more! Focus less on the clock, the calendar, and the smartphone. Do an activity where you lose track of time—this is an indicator of true passion!
Divide + Conquer - Eliminate distractions and focus only on the task at hand. This ensures efficiency and quality.
Find your passion
Like I said, we typically put off the things that require more time and effort. However, this also means the reward can be that much greater.
Listen to what may be speaking to you—that little tiny voice coming from your heart, slow down and acknowledge it! You are never guaranteed tomorrow, so act today! I promise you'll feel more fulfilled by checking off that one big thing, rather than checking off the 10 little things you're placing at the top of your list.
Small steps to get the juices flowing:
Prioritize your health and well-being. Start your day with a healthy meal, movement, fresh air, and sunlight.
Wear that favorite outfit you're saving for a special occasion…TODAY!
Schedule one hour of uninterrupted, unplanned, "me time" and do what you love!
If you're not sure what you're being called to do, take out a pen and pad, and write down your thoughts—clarity is key!
Start Today + Prioritize Your Passions
Check out the updated Eat, Move, Rest tips below!
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And Stay Tuned!
Eat, Move, Rest apparel is on it's way!
Get Some 'Me Time'
Read up on the amazing health benefits of Epsom Salt on this past blog post and find out why it's time for you to create your own at-home spa experience!
Keep it clean. Keep it simple. Whole, raw fruits and veggies are easy to digest and full of living enzymes that are great for your gut!
Try to get a variety of physical activity in each week to prevent boredom and keep your body guessing. Yoga, walking, biking.
Create a peaceful sanctuary to sleep in, free of electronic devices. Turn off the television and opt for a good read instead!
Start Today + Prioritize Your Passions
