Connection is vital to a fulfilling and joyful life. We connect with people, spirit, and purpose. When we don’t feel a sense of connection, we feel adrift and without direction. It is so easy to get caught in the trap of trying to please others while neglecting our own sense of self. Re- establishing a sense of connection is not difficult. It may be uncomfortable, or sometimes painful, but not difficult. The two most important factors are to keep things simple and to be honest with yourself. Here are some exercises which can help simplify this process:
- Make a list of your most common activities, such as work, school, hobbies, etc. Next to each of these activities write down why you do them. This is just for you (unless you want to share it), so be honest.
- Make a list of what you would love to do (if there were no limitations)
- Write down the names of the significant relationships in your life and determine if these relationships support your purpose (if not, dig a little deeper to determine if this lack of support is due to your lack of communication)
The idea with these exercises is to provide you with some insight into your definition of happiness. When you have a clearer definition of happiness, it is easier to figure out how to connect with your purpose. It is also easier to connect your purpose with spirit and to connect with people who nurture your purpose.
Everyone is important. Your presence in the world is vital to someone, probably more people than you could possibly be aware. Take the time to let go of any limitations you place on yourself and any walls you put between yourself and others. Take the time to connect.
Photo Credit: alles-schlumpf via Flickr
Excellent!!!
This post reminded me that sometimes a small change in perspective is the difference between a person or situation being a source of joy, or a source of stress. I followed the steps outlined, actually wrote everything down and really enjoyed the process. The connecting theme for my motivation behind my most common activities was love. I love what I do for a living and the service provided. This extends to co-workers. Even doing housework came down to an expression of love for my family. When I am in touch with this these things are a source of joy.
That is the spirit of this exercise, very well put.
Clint