“I’ve discovered the secret of life — you just hang around until you get used to it.” – Charles M. Shulz
Sometimes, just getting myself to work feels like the hardest part of the day. As a teacher and a parent, it can be overwhelming to think about all of the different duties that will have to be fulfilled. I have found this to be true for many people, regardless of their situation. There are so many factors and dynamics that are beyond our control, that just taking the first step can sometimes create anxiety.
The good news is that, whether we believe it or not, it is usually just the first step that is required before the momentum starts to carry us. That is why it is so important to find ways to support ourselves in successfully taking that first step. For me, that means waking up early enough so that I can walk to the sofa, read a handful of inspirational pages from my collection of books, and sit quietly for a few minutes. By doing this simple act, I am able to move through the rest of the day with grace and ease. Without this little “morning routine” it would be very challenging for me to get over the hump of my early morning mental resistance.
This morning was a perfect example of how valuable that time is to me. I woke up feeling especially tired with a mind full of worry. On top of that, I spent over four hours in the ocean surfing a few days ago and my lower lip was swollen and hurting from too much sun. I was feeling overwhelmed within seconds after my alarm sounding. Groggily, I wandered over to the sofa and started reading from my books. After the third selection, my mind started to relax and it felt like life started to flow again. After one more reading, and a few minutes of quiet sitting, I was able to get up and brew some coffee, then get on with my day.
My drive to school was great, and I was happy to see everyone at school. I picked up one of my students from the bus and headed to class. There I was greeted by a student who was having a rough morning behaviorally (and was wearing his pants backwards), and another who returned to school with a runny nose and a cough after having been absent. If I had not taken the time to tend to my own mind earlier, I would have been dead in the water. Thankfully, I had enough peace of mind to quietly bless the situation and take the rest of the day one step at a time. What looked like it was going to be a stressful day turned out to be smooth sailing.
So much of what I have learned about life has been about finding ways to let go of worries, doubts, and fears, and simply show up for the things that I love to do. In teaching, parenting, music, and writing, it is all about gently following through with my plans and sharing what I have to share. When I am able to do this on a consistent basis, good things happen, and I feel better at the end of the day.
There are so many things working on our behalf that we might never experience if we let fear drag us down. Realize that most of the things that are bothering us are the thoughts that we are carrying about life. When we believe anything for long enough, it can seem real. It is worth taking a moment to read something inspiring, or funny, and get a fresh perspective on whatever it is you are endeavoring to accomplish. Separate your own thoughts from what is really going on and ask yourself if there is an easier way through. By showing up you are sharing your most valuable gift, your presence, and you will be appreciated in unexpected ways.
Edward Biagiotti is the Inclusion Specialist for Culver City Unified School District. He is also co-host of the popular radio show, Funniest Thing! with Darrell and Ed, live each week, Wednesdays at 3 pm on www.UnityOnlineRadio.org. Visit www.TappingIntoGenius.com for more articles and a free, inspirational parenting guide.