I was thinking in the shower this morning that I wish I had someone to walk me through my days. I had in mind a sort of wise spiritual guru who could also motivate me and remind me to work hard, eat right, keep me focused.
Then I realized that I already know a person who would be perfect in this role, and her services wouldn't cost me a dime: she's me. Well, sort of. . . she's the me that I strive to be, the me that I am when I'm at my best, when I'm feeling strong and energetic, when I am able to keep my focus. She's my better self.
Better Self would rise early every day and do a half-hour of yoga or go for a walk around the neighborhood with the dog before going to work. She would awaken full of energy and would remember when the alarm goes off that exercising first thing in the morning will set the tone for her day and give her more energy all day long.
Better Self would take a few moments to apply makeup and lotion before racing out the door, and she would pick out a cute outfit to wear instead of something unflattering or drab. She would always leave early enough to be able to catch the commuter bus to work (to save money on gas, of course), and she would get to the office on time.
Better Self would eat a healthy breakfast and lunch that she planned and packed for herself. She would probably have healthy snacks, too. While at work, she would be focused and productive. She would take time to get up and walk around every hour. She would drink water and take time for breaks. She would make sure to get out of the office once in a while and maybe even take a walk at lunch on occasion.
Better Self would arrive home on time and have patience with her sons and their various antics. She would prepare them a healthy dinner (and continue to exercise patience when they didn't eat it and demanded "mac cheese" instead). She would be present in the moment and enjoy her time with her children.
After her sons were in bed, Better Self would eat a healthy dinner and then have enough energy to accomplish some tasks around the house before spending some quality time with her husband and, finally, relaxing before going to bed.
Now my only question is: where is this Better Self most of the time?
Great post. I certainly believe I make a better friend to others than I do myself. That's why I became a Buddhist, so I could remind myself daily that I am my better self.....and occasionally I listen to myself. :)
ReplyDeleteThe key is to find a way to integrate Better Self. She is you and you are her and therefore should not be side by side or one in front of the other, but one.
ReplyDeleteIIWII, you're right. But I don't have the first clue how to accomplish this task.
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