How to Get What You've Always Wanted
“Make the conscious choice to notice that which brings you joy and you will suddenly find yourself experiencing a whole lot more of it.”
Did you get what you wanted? Or do you have those post-holiday blues?
Sometimes our expectations outpace reality and it leaves us feeling a bit deflated. But we don't have to let those little disappointments (or even big ones) get the best of us.
To illustrate my point, I am going to share something trivial that happened to me this morning when I noticed someone taking credit for work that I had done. I immediately felt that old "no fair!" reaction start to rise, but just as quickly I observed where the reaction was coming from (my ego) and was able to let it go. I was far more curious about my reaction than upset about the situation.
This feels like real progress to me! It tells me that my meditation practice is beginning to bear fruit.
On further reflection I realized that my desire for recognition can be just as easily satisfied by recognizing the accomplishments of others, or appreciating the fact that someone found my work valuable in some way. The fact that the work was being used in a positive way also makes it worthwhile and I can feel good about that.
Benjamin Jowett (1817-1893) said, "The way to get things done is not to mind who gets the credit."
Ego says, "That's mine! I deserve the credit!"
True Self says, "There is no me or mine. Let the work speak for itself."
What I have learned is that when I consciously choose my response rather than react out of outworn habit patterns I can be generous, compassionate and even joyful. Not a bad trade-off.
So does this work in other circumstances? Give it a try and see for yourself. What brings you joy?