Are you feeling like you should be doing more, but not quite sure where to start? That’s a feeling that shall remain nameless, but all too familiar. You’re caught in the false dilemma of wanting to do more and needing to do more, without sure which direction or goals to pursue or how those goals will help you become a better, happier version of yourself.
There’s no doubt that life is a journey. It’s up to us to figure out what roads, highways and side streets to take along this never-ending expedition. With each new destination come new questions with little answers. Should you continue along your current path? Will it bring you closer to who you want to become? Can you afford to make a left turn, when your ultimate destination seems just over the next hill?
It’s a neverending cycle of decisions, with every new milestone beckoning exciting opportunities -- and conversely, doubts and fears of the unknown. But with the unpredictability of life comes no guarantees; so where we go, when we go and how it’ll work out is mostly a gamble.
If you’re feeling the burden of having to do more, first things first: reflect on what ‘more’ really means. Is it more books to read, certifications to obtain, projects to complete or a purpose to live? All of these pieces need to fit into the puzzle you’re trying to build, but fitting them together can sometime feel like grasping at straws.
To understand the outcome you’re seeking, it starts by taking a step back. Look at your goals through an unbiased lens and identify the areas in your life that are important to you, but could use some improvement. Forget the expectations from others; the only goal that matters in this case is yours. Whether it’s family, fitness, mental health, career or something else, map out a clear route for how to move forward with measured steps.
What matters most is the journey we take, not the destination. We often think that our end goal needs to be an accomplishment or milestone. But true personal growth comes from being present in the process, savoring each moment for what it is, instead of spinning your wheels over how to get there.
Setting expectations for yourself is always good, but balance is key. When you take time out of your day, even if it’s just 10 minutes, to do something you love — whether that’s going for a walk, playing an instrument or reading a good book — it can help prioritize your focus and concerns. Prioritizing may sound like common sense but when you’re under pressure of ‘do more’, it’s hard to see the forest through the trees. This type of meditation and mindfulness can become an anchor to center your thoughts and feelings and to ground your ambitions in both personal and professional contexts.
Don’t let the idea of ‘doing more’ overcast the beauty of the perfectly imperfect life. It’s okay to enjoy the little moments yet still aim for bigger accomplishments. There’s no need to run at breakneck speed after something you think you should be doing, or worse, feeling inadequate that you can’t keep up. Trust your intuition, develop resilience and remember that growth isn’t always a race. When in doubt, take a deep breath and try to be content in what life has put in front of you right now.
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