you don't need to strive for more

From the moment we can think for ourselves, we are asked what we want to be when we grow up. We continue to ponder on our future and what it is that we want to accomplish. For some of us it takes over our life and we continue through adulthood to strive for more. To pursue higher income, more achievements, better relationships. But to what end?

While in the past expectations were placed upon us, if you are like me, these days we place expectations on ourselves. And from my experience these expectations are harder to meet. The continued relentless pursuit of them can not only take us down a spiral of thought that perhaps is the very thing holding us back. They can also impact our ability to live the life we want.

I have been driven and ambitious my whole life. I have experienced great highs and indeed achieved beyond what even I thought possible. Yet, the pursuit of this took its toll. Some confused my relentless drive for perfectionism. And while there is some truth in that, it was instead my inability to accept who I was and what I brought to the table. For many of us, self acceptance is something we dare not think about. It is far easier to come up with ambitious goals that in some ways act as a distraction to self-love.

Instead Accept the Present

If we consider instead setting out to accept the present. To accept ourselves. To be kind to ourselves so that we accept each day for what it brings, we can then accomplish our full potential.

This year I chose to shift my perspective. From one of always focusing on the future to one where the present moment is more important. To embrace the day and the opportunities that arise in the present. To be driven and to have goals yes, but to strive towards them in a different way. At peace with who I am and with less judgement.

Start the day with less expectations and an openness to doing what is possible. To embrace the present moment and accept what you can bring to the party. Being aware of how you are choosing to live your life. Then see what you can accomplish.

So much energy is placed on reaching for more, yet contentment in the relationships you have, the income you generate and your personal ability, might be the surest way to live a more enriched life.