We are an accumulation of the decisions we make. Our choices and actions reflect who we are, what we value, and what we believe is possible and not. This may be a scary thought to some, to hold one’s self-accountable in such a manner, but it is one that we need, in order to recognize and acknowledge why we keep getting in our own way.
For too long, many of us go on neglectful, ignorant, and absentminded of the consequences of our actions. We believe what we did isn’t that bad. We tell ourselves there are worst decisions we could have made and compare ourselves to our most reckless friend to justify our actions. Even our friends begin to help, make up excuses for it, and we go along with it, hoping to one day believe it ourselves. This type of irresponsibility seeps into one’s core, like a poison, as it slowly and surely unravels all of our hard work, accomplishments, and efforts to propel forward.
Our mistakes may not define, however, it is the frequencies of our mistakes, our behavioral patterns afterward, and how we recover from them that does.
The best way to ensure we are positioned to make the optimal choice for ourselves and our future is mindful thinking. Carefully and diligently evaluating the situation. Reflect and examine before making a conscious decision. Ignore the spontaneous urges and the devilish comfort of instant gratification. We must think of all the possible ways it can help us, the people around us, both now and in the future.
Every decision may not need hours of in-depth thinking, but many do affect more than just ourselves. Making the right decision won’t be easy, especially since what is right for you may not mean the same or translate the same to others. It will feel foreign, uncomfortable, and very confusing. However, it is in discomfort that we are able to push ourselves further beyond our wildest imagination and realms of possibilities.
May you make the conscious decisions to bring you that much closer to the future you’ve always wanted.
Inspired by my partner and early morning commutes
Author’s note: Please don’t get me wrong. This piece is not to judge, ridicule or insult anyone in your actions and choices. It was intended to bring awareness and shine a light on what I’ve noticed is lacking and how we can stop getting in our own way of doing great things.
