I am joining Juliann and friends to share my word – Focus.
I started the month off strong with Michelle’s Gratitude Week – her reminders were so perfect and in hindsight, it turns out that start was crucial to surviving a very challenged month for me.
I am grateful that my normal focus carried me through the month – being in the moment, focusing on right now and moving. Bad days are infinitely better when you move your body and get outside for a brisk walk. Fresh air really clears out the doldrums and it is hard to do anything but focus on Pilates when you are doing Pilates!
Add to that my usual knitting focus – and making some impromptu gifts really helped as well. I also learned that rhythmic knitting (read mindless stockinette) sometimes allows you to dwell on problems – but seed stitch keeps you focused on those knits and purls and not on worrisome thinking!
And all of those things have helped me to stay in the moment rather than being consumed by worry beyond that moment. And for that I am holding on to those tiny bits of gratitude.
Photo by Irina Iriser from Pexels
I did a meditation this morning on not letting the stray thoughts get in the way. I think this is what you have been doing this month. Thanks for joining me.
You’ve really come a long way with focus this year! I’m thinking about my word for next year and may follow your big strides with some focus of my own.
Nice! I think Focus has been the perfect word for you.
I think you picked an excellent word for the year and it’s clear that you’ve really (no pun intended!) focused on it. I definitely agree that moving and getting fresh air is such a great way to combat a not-so-good day.
I think the best thing to do when those problems keep intruded on our peaceful thoughts is to acknowledge the problem and then let it go. Don’t try to solve it or dwell on it but just note it. That works for me, anyway. Good job on keeping focused on focus!
I love what you’ve discovered this year … moment by moment, day by day, it all adds up. You’ve reminded me, too, that I only need to focus on right now … and the next right now will take care of itself. Thank you!
I agree – getting out for a walk is so good for my mental health. Yoga is another way for me to stay focused in the present. Your word has led you on an interesting journey this year.
Yes, the bad days will be there, and how we cope is so vital, and that’s why I have taken up fencing. My mom is facing a cancer battle and I am stock piling knitting that while it is “easy” it is not mindless for the very reason you stated. Great audio books will be in my toolbox as well.
Our son was visiting and I felt like I got nothing done. But then I thought I’m visiting with my son and that is a BIG something! So today is a mad dash of trying to get everything that needs done done. Wish me luck 🙂
Life lessons that have import for us all; thank you for sharing and inviting us to focus on that which we control…especially our thoughts and responses to life.