It feels like that is what’s been happening since the pandemic began – which feels like years ago to many of us. We are all waiting, stuck on hold listening to bad music and having no idea how long it will be before someone picks up the phone.
There have been way too many stressful things going on this year. So many, in fact, that we spend more and more time stunned by new and ever-changing information and circumstances. Personally I’ve reached the point that nothing surprises me anymore. It’s all so wacky and somehow beyond rhyme or reason. I do often ponder the idea that we are currently living in an alternative universe…somehow everything is ‘up‘ all at once.
I’m not going to list all the components of what is going on in our country and around the world. One thing I know is that everyone is feeling off-kilter – whichever side you are on.
To me, the biggest issue is that our lack of control and predictability leaves us weary and fearful. Then, to add to the stress, our Inner Critic voices start lecturing us on what we did wrong, or didn’t do, or should do.…on and on it goes.
The truth is that the one thing we can actually control is our response to what’s happening. We can choose how we respond.
Personally, I’m done with waiting for the return to “what”, was. Based on my own adventures, I know that life changes, and things do not go back to the way they were. Sometimes the change is good. Sometimes it’s super challenging, but it’s never the way it ‘was!’
Here’s what I propose; Stop Waiting! I don’t mean that you do something wacky or out of character. I’m suggesting that you start taking action. Action that is designed to help you feel and believe that you have some control.
You might already be familiar with the “Law of Attraction” idea of:
- Intention + Attention = Manifestation?
I have my own riff on it:
- Thoughts/Ideas/Dream X Action = Results!
In addition to changing the language to something simpler, I also change from an addition sign (+) to a multiplication (x) one. Yes, it’s a math thing and an important one. If you don’t have clear goals you create wonky results. If you dream all the time and never do anything towards turning that dream into a reality, nothing will happen. Zero multiplied by anything else is still zero.
Now, in the middle of this mess, how about you start generating some ideas and taking some action instead of waiting? You’ll be practicing adapting NOW instead of waiting for everything to go back. You’ll be ahead of the curve.
Let me be clear. Your dream/action may be about connecting more with friends. It may be about learning a new language. Perhaps, finding a new career. The notion that matters more is that you will no longer feel like you are just waiting! Perhaps it’s the real wisdom in the old adage “Life is what happens while we’re making other plans?”
What are you going to choose as your new ‘normal?’ How are you going to make it fit your goals and values?
Ka’ching
Shell Tain, The Untangler