When you find yourself living life through the circumstances around you it’s time to say to yourself:
Slow down and go with the flow.
There’s no point in fighting:
- the traffic around you
- your client
- your boss
- your spouse
- the person in front of you in line.
Sometimes it’s just plain impossible to change the circumstances in which we find ourselves. Maybe it’s not worth it. Maybe it’s a waste of energy.
What we can change is our reaction. We can decide how much energy we’re going to expend on those things we cannot control.
Usually little energy is best. Just go with the flow.
Photo: One Step Further
By JacquiT
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
I’ve personally struggled with feeling like I MUST put 100% into everything. (too much energy into everything). I’ve subsequently struggled with feelings of failure or inadquacy–somewhat like I’m treading water and not really getting anywhere or accomplishing much.
I’ve been trying to focus on “”balance” in my life (work, home, exercise, etc.) and you know what? That works when I think about it or take the time to plan. Mostly it doesn’t and set backs are more frequent than I’d like.
I appreciate the concept of using little (or less) energy and “going with the flow” but doesn’t that make us more vulnerable by loosing control?
Going with the flow hit home tonight for me – we’re in a snowstorm and there is not much anyone can do about it. With the stress of work, I can get agitated and rather grumpy . . .and go to the food pantry far to frequently for a little pick-me-up. . .
I think we need to pick our spots – go with the flow when circumstances really are out of our control – and then go fult tilt at other times when we can make an impact.
You’re absolutely spot-on, Carol.
The tough part is being able to let go when we have no control –that’s when we go with the flow. It leaves us energy for going full steam ahead when we need to.
I think if we look at it as ‘losing control’ it can make us more vulnerable. I tend to think of it as losing the attachment to the outcome.Giving 50% when that’s all I have to give is sometimes A-OK! Also, a little vulnerability is good — reminds us we are human.
Planning is a huge part of going with the flow — as you said.Also, adding the word ‘no’ into our vocabulary. That’s definitely something I struggled with, but now when I say, “I’d just love to do XYZ, but I can’t right now,” it feels so empowering!