One of my resolutions this year is to get my son to meditate before he falls asleep. His night routine includes Q&A sessions with me, and prayer, and it’s been great so far. However, I realize that in this overactive world, he struggles to keep his mind still.
I believe that it’s never too early for a kid to start their personal development journey, and I’m determined to share as much as possible with him to ensure that he at least has access to the knowledge, information, and tools available to become the best version of himself. I want to give him the gift of access, and then he can choose what he wants to do with it.
Last night, in my rush to get him into bed, I skipped the meditation part, but he didn’t. He looked me dead in the eye and said, “Mom, I’m gonna meditate now,” and proceeded to sit in his meditation position, and take deep breaths. When he was done he said, “You know mom… meditation is really helpful. I feel like my mind is clear.” That moment was a “Yasssss!!!” moment for me, because I was glad that he got it! He wasn’t just doing it because it was suggested by me, but because he’s actually getting results. He can see the improvement, and it makes him want to do more of it.
That’s how we need to approach personal development. Don’t just do things because it sounds like a nice-to-have, or because it’s a popular suggestion. Always keep an open mind and heart - experiment with ideas, and keep tweaking until it works for you. Don’t rush to commit to long term plans when you haven’t overcome the short-term resistance. Instead drive yourself towards short-term results first, because that’s what moves you on the days when you’re tired.
Results keep you accountable.
I’ve seen results from proper nutrition, exercise, and good sleep hygiene. I’ve looked at myself in the mirror many times and smiled at how happy, strong, energetic, and great I look and feel. That’s what keeps me committed to my health journey. And whenever I fall off, I find my way back to my routine, because I’ve tasted the results. I know it works.
Most people start something positive, but never get to the point of results. They give up before they start to see results. If you can just push further and get value from whatever move you make, you’re more likely to hold yourself accountable and keep pushing forward until that “doing,” becomes a positive habit. Promise yourself that you’ll go to the gym until you see some result. Try journaling your thoughts and visions daily until you see some result. Try putting good energy into your work relationship, until you see results. You don’t need to commit to anything long term at this stage. Just commit enough to see the return on your investment. At that point, you can decide if you’d like to continue.
I can guarantee you that you’ll be better for it.
xx
Adaora ‘Lumina’ Mbelu