Goals, Goals, Goals

I’ve had a lot going on this past year, from professional to personal…and while I’m ready to move into 2023, having an overflowing ‘plate’ has helped me gain greater clarity about where to focus in the future.

Just because I can do something doesn’t mean I should. The truth is: I won’t do everything very well, no matter how hard I try. I’ve been asking myself lately: “What one or two goals will make the biggest difference for my life?” It’s time to do some “goal pruning” and get down to what really matters.

So, I’ve let go of a few things I enjoy doing but which no longer serve me well. I did this by paying attention to “quantum flirts” which Arnold Mindell describes as, “short-lived, transient, perceptual signals which can be used to provide us with insight.”

Quantum flirts – a real-life example: I lift my arms while explaining how I want to be bolder and—at that exact moment—loud roars of thunder rumble from the sky. It’s as if the universe is validating my declaration and showing me what that is like…BOOM!

I also have noticed other ‘signals’ that are figuratively like a foul odor. I’ve humorously termed these “quantum farts” to describe when things that seem to go wrong actually end up being useful. These are face-twitching moments that—if I can stay with them—are breakdowns that create breakthroughs.

By the way, I much prefer quantum flirts over farts, yet I acknowledge farts can be powerful!

The message is clear: To realize the vision I have for my life, I must focus on a few things that truly matter to me and my world.

This Week’s Challenge:  Try some “goal pruning”—especially when you are overwhelmed. One way is to walk around for at least 15 minutes, inside or outside. Consciously notice what’s catching your attention in the physical world. It could be a random sound, a cool breeze, the way light streams through a window. Use your “quantum flirts” as insights for where to focus in service of what you want for yourself, your work, your life.