Overcoming the Ritual
We have the power to unlock hidden potential all around us.
I pull out of work and sit at the light to turn left. By now, I know almost when the light will flash green because of routine. There are times I make it home, driving in the piercing dark, not even really remembering my drive. Do you do that? I often have that internal dialogue saying, "I hope I did break at the red light," because my brain doesn't remember doing so. It's like my mind just stopped recording those moments when I locked the door to the studio (Did I, though? I can't tell you how many times I go back and double-check, and every time I certainly did.), buckled my seat belt, and went past all the buzzing neon lights at night.
That reinforced habit gets more worn every time I successfully drive it. It becomes a norm. We find comfort in the norms.
Now, let's venture into deeper discussions. Norms, habits, and routines come in all shapes and forms. Your customary practices may show up in your relationships or dating patterns. Your traditions may be sneaking into your beliefs or spiritual life. Your self-hate talk, complaining, or insecurities may just be the result of your go-to way to comfort your anxiety or hurt.
We find so much safety in those familiar pathways, yet sometimes we forget our brain is a complex organ despite our habitual processes. The capacity for our minds to expand and react differently is pretty straightforward. Just do something different. Neuroplasticity is the power your brain has to make new links and new ways of responding.
While a Telsa would be nice, I'm not ready to drive my life on autopilot. I want to stimulate my brain to its most capable vantage. I hear from students all the time that they didn't have time to practice because of homework, chores, this, or that. It makes me sad that they didn't try to find a way to re-work their commitments and make time for dance (or sports or music or ______________, you can fill in the blank). They get so fixated on "this is how it must be because this is how it is." As parents, we are here to help their little brains respond differently and develop more flexible thinkers. If we are willing to sacrifice or step out of our way, we'd all be surprised at what we could achieve.
Tangible ways to change things up:
Go a different way home. Take a right instead of left on a day you don't have a deadline, bedtime, or some other obligation. If you are looking for a town you’ve never been to before, check these out: Henderson NC and Murrells Inlet SC
Try on a new perfume or light a new candle. Our brain fire differently when all five senses are involved.
My new fall fragrances. Clean, herbal, and classic. Scent is such a great way to mix it up for my brain.
Read a new book. This is my favorite suggestion.
I am hungry also, Pastor Tony. I heard Pastor Tony for the first time at the Release Conference at Goldsboro Worship Center. He had a powerful message to keep fanning the flames to search out God and to be the revival you want to see in the world. I hurried to Christianbook.com to order his book, “Revival Makers”. I have been so curious about Asbury, Auburn University, and recently a move of God at our own Mount Olive University. As you can see, I’m only a little way in and I feel that hunger also. Please take a second to visit their website to find your next read that will switch your routine up. What better way to twist things around than a move of God? I can’t think of a better one. They have bargain books, Bible studies, Christian books, and gifts if you’d like to start shopping for Christmas. They have a $10 off $50 code good till tomorrow (10/6). Using my link here would be much appreciated. If you use my link, I might receive a percentage of the sale at no additional cost to you. I only write about and promote products that I believe in that I think, you, the readers might would find beneficial for your life as well.
Cook a new recipe. No, this is my favorite suggestion. Haha.
Chris made Chicken Gyros from the Magnolia Table Cookbook Volume 3. Greek food is not in our wheelhouse but this was delicious. We opted for this healthier wrap instead of the pita bread.
Listen to a new genre of music. Giving it a try can't hurt.
Learn a new language or dance style or pick up a paintbrush or...
In more challenging ways:
Give it three more chances. If you avoid conflicts and stresses and are easily distressed in uncomfortable situations, give something three more tries before throwing in the towel. You are more resilient and strong than you give yourself credit for.
Find a new way to meet people. Instead of trying to force interactions at your local bar, why not look into a book club, church group, or exercise group? Try an online dating app where everyone can first lay out their intentions and convictions.
Pray. Praying is one of those things that, if you're not careful can be very religious and "doing it because the Bible said I should" kinda thing. I like to pray for God to reveal what I'm not noticing and my downfalls so He can begin that work within me.
Switch your words. We complain about errands, the school system, the government, other people's choices, and the list can go on and on. Instead of saying, "I have to pay this bill," say, "I'm fortunate enough to pay this bill" because the truth of the matter is a lot of people can't. Instead of bashing your child's teacher, look at it as the opportunity to teach your child what should have happened and use it as a learning moment. Your child will grow to be confident in their decision-making skills instead of just a good complainer. Instead of fueling the fire of division in the country, take the time to be grateful for having freedom and see what you can do to help your community instead of supporting a corrupt system. Instead of letting other people's poor decisions wreck you of your happiness (I'm preaching to myself here!), spin the scenario and see where the opportunities for successful perspective changes can occur.
Take one first step. Then, every time you take that first step, seeing the new world of opportunity ahead becomes more effortless.
K bye
Megan
Doing life, the best I know how…