How often does this little sentence change the course of our day? “I don’t feel like it.” We planned to take a walk, but the couch feels comfortable. We intended to call someone who needs us, but we would rather scroll. Our child has homework, but with a bit of whinging, we let them play on their phone so they ‘can have a break.’  We have that nagging task; we keep punting to ‘tomorrow’ and only because it doesn’t feel good to think about it.

Nothing extraordinary has happened. We simply prefer the easier choice.

The problem comes when this becomes a pattern. We care about our health, but healthy choices depend on our mood. We value kindness, but generosity waits until it is convenient. We want responsible children, but responsibilities become negotiable whenever enthusiasm disappears. Look closely at what we are practicing. Are our daily choices taking us where we want to go?

Simple question.  And, a somewhat simple answer.

Let your values set the direction

We can decide what matters before the moment arrives. These decisions are based upon core values, primary intentions, or simply the principles we want to live by. These should guide our choices. Feelings deserve attention, certainly, but the ‘in-the-moment’ feeling  are influenced by so many transient factors that motivation can be constantly changing, unpredictable and unreliable.

There are important exceptions. Illness, significant exhaustion, pain, or........

© The Saratogian