Do what you love is a theme that comes up a lot in modern circles. There are variations on the theme, and chances are you’ve heard some of these as well:
- Follow your bliss.
- Let go of what doesn’t serve you.
- Life is short (so do what you love).
- Don’t let anyone steal your joy.
Do more of what you love
Today my yoga teacher suggested an activity that was a twist on the usual “to do” list. The task was to make a list of things we enjoy doing and then spend this day (which happened to be a Monday) doing what we want to do.
Ah, if only I had that luxury, I thought. I’d probably go get a pedicure and then pack for a week away at luxury yoga retreat, maybe one that includes learning how to draw or paint. But unfortunately, there are bills to pay. And without getting into details, as a responsible adult, I have to make that a priority right now, so…
I could not afford the luxury of being sure to have some fun today.
But wait. Life should be fun, shouldn’t it?
I don’t advocate being miserable. I’ve shown that in my life by leaving one or two dead-end jobs and opting out of activities and relationships that don’t help me grow and live in love. But how do those of us who need to make a living manage the do what you love thing?
Well, how about this? If you can’t do what you love every minute of the day, then find a way to love what you do. Or at least find a way to not be miserable while you’re doing it.
A while ago, I wrote about how I’ve learned to turn some of the more tedious aspects of my work, like dry technical editing or grocery shopping, into meditations. (Seriously, next time you go grocery shopping, try to go slowly and really notice the colorful array of fruits and vegetables in the produce section or the myriad choices you have if you want a dozen eggs or a container of yogurt!)
Doing more of what we love each day is important, and so is taking care of our responsibilities. So, if you can’t quit your job or ignore a deadline to spend the entire day today doing things on your what I love to do list, try loving the simple fact that you’re alive and functioning, and love (or at least like) whatever you need to do.
The fact that you’re able to do anything is something worth appreciating. So despite the fact that I can’t do something I’m in love with every second of every day, here’s a short list of the things I’ve loved doing in just the last 24 hours:
- I drank more than one delicious cup of coffee.
- I ate a yummy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- I went to an awesome yoga class.
- I watched my favorite MLB team win (again)!
- I watched a fascinating drama on television.
- I listened to some of my favorite music.
- I noticed the lilies in a bouquet of flowers I bought a few days ago have bloomed and are gorgeous.
- I did my “editing meditation.”
- I wrote this latest entry for my blog.
- And of course, I practiced yoga!
What will you love doing today?
Third Eye 