Love, Believe, Do, and Live Today
Dr. Debi Gilmore, LMFT CEFT, Co-Founder of Building A Lasting Connection®
At the close of a new year we often find ourselves reflecting on our regrets of what was, and worrying about the unknowns of what is coming. Many people get caught in the “New Year Resolution” exercise of I should, I would, I need to, I must, and all the other shaming absolutes and “commitments-to-self” that end up causing us to feel discouraged and convinced we will never be enough. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Scranton found that 23% of people quit their resolution after just one week, and only 19% of individuals are able to stick to their goals long term (two years in the case of this study).
Consider the following wise counsel of Dalai Lama:
“There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called Yesterday and the other is called Tomorrow. Today is the right day to Love, Believe, Do and mostly Live.”
Imagine giving yourself permission to let go of the regret for all your yesterdays of mistakes and imperfections and let go of the focus on your worries and concerns of tomorrow. Imagine for a moment, choosing to be present with yourself and those in your life that matter most to you. Choose to be present, right now… in this moment. Just as Dalai Lama suggested, your greatest power of influence on your own well-being and future success is in this present moment.
What can you do right now, that will influence your tomorrow, and maybe influence someone else’s tomorrow? What can you tell yourself right now that will lift your spirits and serve as a reminder of your worth? The following are some simple suggestions for you to consider:
- Seek out a loved one and look into their eyes while you express gratitude for their presence in your life.
- Ponder on something you do well, such as cooking, writing, painting, sports, etc. Think about why that activity brings you so much fulfillment. Consider spending some time completing a project that has been waiting for your attention… right now.
- If you have a beloved dog or cat, sit with them and stroke their fur while pondering on all the moments of joy and comfort they have offered you through the months and years.
- Call a friend and tell them why they are so important to you.
- When you sit down for a meal, savor every… single… bite of food. Pay close attention to the taste, smell, and sensation you experience as you nourish your body and soul with food.
As you immerse yourself in the present moments of now, and anticipate a fresh new year, don’t forget to love, believe, do, and live today.
