I am taking a few days to consider each of the dimensions of well-centered fitness (Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, and Social) and the “baby steps” one (me, in particular) can take to become more “well-centered”. Today, I consider the Emotional dimension.
Emotional well-centeredness. Emotionally, we need frequent regular relaxation, reflection, and renewal. It need not involve a lot of time. A few minutes a day—to start.
We need to schedule regular resets throughout the day. I like the idea of the “productive pause” (Jim Harshaw). We just need to tune out the negativity and reset our minds to positive thoughts.
I like to consider what are referred to as the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). As fruit, I think of it as something to be cultivated. Emotionally, we must tend to (cultivate) love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Emotional well-centeredness takes constant effort and practice. Baby steps. It is also a choice. We have a choice to be content and happy. Or not. Practice being happy.
Look at the challenges before us as opportunities. The daily practice of considering the opportunities presented to cultivates gratitude and a greater sense of one’s purpose.
Plan a small amount of time for reflection and meditation, for regular exercise, and purposeful reading and learning. Also plan time with family and friends. Prioritize the things that feed you emotionally. What is the “garbage” that fills your day? Are we spending too much time in activities that drain us physically and emotionally? Are you spending too much time with the wrong people? (More about the Social dimension, tomorrow.) Avoid spending too much time doing things that are “unproductive”. Count the cost of the choices you make for using your time. Progressively eliminate the things that choke out your positivity. Add things that feed your positivity. Baby steps to Emotional well-centeredness.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!