Stretchhhhhhh

Every morning I sit at my desk and watch the squirrels tackle the “squirrel proof” bird feeder. Their acrobatics rival any of our world-class gymnasts … hanging, twisting, jumping, falling … stretching. They are lessons in desire, creativity, learning, endurance and resilience. Their desire to conquer the bird feeder is greater than any fear that they may have of not succeeding. I find myself rooting for their success.

Too often, we don’t know what we really want. We lack clarity about our why and are stumped with how to move forward. I was listening recently to Mel Robbin’s book, The High Five Habit, and was struck by her interpretation of jealousy as a motivator. To paraphrase: jealousy uncovers an unrealized dream which you need to pay attention and take action to attain. This is a fascinating perspective to explore. It requires one to stretch.

How often do we look at people we admire and think, “I can’t do that” or “I don’t have what it takes”? We let our inner critic talk us out of following through. It’s true that you can’t do that and you don’t have what it takes if you don’t take steps to achieve the dream. They can be small steps. Figure out where you need to stretch:  ask for help; brainstorm with others; research; volunteer; there are so many ways to get moving toward your goals. Be like the squirrels — bring on your desire, creativity, learning, endurance and resilience … stretchhh yourself.

This Week’s Challenge:  What have you always wanted to try but talked yourself out of? It’s time to give it a whirl. Decide to stretch yourself. Mark the date and do it. Once you’ve done it, take the energy and put it towards a larger goal. In the words of Dr. Seuss: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…”