Focusing on What Matters

When our actions are aligned with what we believe to be important, this allows us to live a more fulfilled life, and also decreases stress and burnout. Identifying our values, honing in on our strengths and taking aligned action can help us to focus on what truly matters. When we're under a lot of stress, it may be hard to make decisions or think clearly because the mind may be filled with so many different thoughts, and the body may feel so overwhelmed and exhausted. So in this mindfulness exercise, we'll spend some time accessing the wise mind, the part of us that can give us guidance, who can keep us inspired and motivated, and support us in living a value-driven, purposeful life. The wise part of you is your own intuitive and inherent wisdom, the part of you that is a combination of life lessons, imparted wisdom and lived experiences. This wise part of you knows how to support you and take care of you, when this present day you may forget. Make sure to have a journal and pen close by so you can jot down any insights after the session. So let's begin. First, finding a comfortable position for your body and settling in. Feeling the body making contact with the floor cushion beneath you, and noticing how it feels to be supported. Now, taking a few deep breaths here, in through the nose and out through the mouth, gently letting go and releasing with each breath, inviting ease and calm into the mind and body. Now returning the breath back to its natural rhythm and pace, and taking a moment to reflect on what brought you to this exercise today. What do you need support with? Maybe it's an issue at work, a difficult conversation or a strained relationship. Noticing what comes to mind and reflecting on something that you're able to stay present with and not too overwhelmed by. And with this situation in your mind and heart, begin to envision yourself in a beautiful place in nature, a place that inspires peace and calm, a place where you feel deeply relaxed and a place where you feel safe, just taking in your surroundings. And then imagining a long path forming in front of you with a person standing in the distance. This is your wise self. This person has lived the life you desire, has been through the same challenges as you, and knows what you may need to work through the situation that you're in. So noticing how they look, what they're wearing and taking in their appearance. As you look at them, you notice them looking at you with kindness and compassion. If you like, you can gently rest a hand on the heart as you walk towards them, and beginning to ask your wise self the following questions. What is the lesson I'm meant to learn from this situation? What values would be most supportive or helpful for me at this...