In challenging times there is always the promise of light around the corner just waiting to shine. We can fill ourselves with hope, and inspiration to reach higher and search deeper for solutions, no matter what the difficulty. You have the ability to focus and find possibility.
Like a clean slate on a classroom chalkboard, the possibilities for solutions are endless. We are constantly creating chalk drawings that can become our reality. What we focus on expands. Are you paying attention to what you are focusing on?
Each of us has the power to turn a difficult situation around with ease.
First, we can chose where to place our focus. If you have several choices in front of you, it is important that you focus your energy on the one that feels most aligned with what you are trying to create in your life.
Second, there are 5 words that can help during challenging times. “Be the way you are”. Give yourself presence and permission to sit with your feelings for a few moments. More than a few moments and you begin to ruminate and this is not a powerful place to be to help you find possibilities. There is a 90 second scorecard that I use with my clients, that I would be happy to share with you. Reach out to learn how this tool can support your efforts.
Next, develop awareness. Here are 4 steps to support you;
1. Notice the breath
Sit, close your eyes and focus your attention on your breath without trying to change it. Notice how your body expands and contracts as you breathe. Pay attention to the subtle sensations of the air flowing in and out of your nose.
What effect does focusing on the breath have on your body, emotions and energy?
2. Notice physical sensations
Now turn your focus to whatever sensations you are aware of in your body. You may notice tingling, tension, coolness or relaxation. Do not try to change the sensations, judge them or create a story about what the sensations mean. Simply notice.
What effect does focusing your attention on physical sensations have on your breath, emotions and energy?
3. Notice your emotions
Now shift your attention to whatever emotions are present. Accept whatever emotions are present without judging, changing or engaging in inner dialogue about them. You may notice contentment or restlessness, joy or sadness, fear or love, or numbness.
What effect does focusing your attention on your emotions have on your breath, body and energy in this moment?
4. Notice your energy
Now shift your attention to whatever energy lives in you. Accept whatever energy flows through you without trying to change it or engage in inner dialogue about your energy. You may notice desire or blockages, intensity or flow.
What effect does focusing your attention on your energy have on your breath, body and emotions in this moment?
We can use focused attention to notice what is happening in nature, the environment or in communication with other people. The practice of simply noticing, engages our awareness and brings us into the moment. As a coach, when I notice my clients are entangled in thought, I can guide them into awareness. This provides access to a clear mind and intuition and opens our creativity, resourcefulness and wisdom.
Focusing works because life naturally wants to move forward and find new possibilities. Sometimes we get stuck because we get cut off from that natural life forward energy. Remember, you are in control of what chalkboard images you write on the board.
Jennifer Jimbere is President of Jimbere Coaching and Consulting, Co-Founder and Resident Expert at Radical Joy Seeking Women’s Club and would like to explore synergies to work with you. Contact me to partner in possibility and learn how to up your positive experiences.
Maintain momentum and make it a great day.
Image credit and artist: LA artist and old friend Jennifer Verge
Inspired by: My email sign off:)
