I can easily write a lengthy list of what I want more of. For some reason, more seems to strike a chord... and it makes me focus on what I don't have. But when I bring less into the equation, the opposite presents. I find myself dwelling on what I don't need, what I can discard, what I truly need to be happy {and it turns out that's not many things at all}.
In learning the art of balance and in a bid for clarity, I write my more or less list each year. It begins with a fair bit of thought, but eventually the words just roll onto the page, unfolding into a manifesto of sorts that resonates with my heart. Here it is.
Less screens, more books
Less sugar, more protein
Less procrastination, more meditation
Less talking, more listening
Less worry, more gratitude
Less criticism, more praise
Less fear, more love
Less rushing, more moments
Less doing, more just being
xx
Will you give the less and more list a go? Do you do a similar exercise, and has it helped you? Love to know your thoughts. Leave me a message or link below or even shoot me an email if you create your own list. I'd love to have a read. Elisa xx
~~~~~~~~ Love some free prints and affirmations to inspire your everyday? You can leave your email here! Can not wait to send this bundle of mindfulness prints + affirmations to you next month. Elisa xx ~~~~~~~~
Towards the end of last year it felt like I was given no choice but to surrender. And still I resisted it.
I had big plans for 2015. Bigger than big plans - a return to study, new work commitments and a few personal projects up my sleeve too, and daily blog writing (ha!)
The universe, of course, had other ideas but did promptly offer me my asked-for serving of big - in the form of our darling Ruby. 2015 was BIG in the best way.
It pushed me to rediscover myself, but mostly reminded me who I am and who I am striving to be.
I got better at letting go of the big {end} picture, instead focusing on doing what I could with what I had.
I came to believe that would be enough. That my best is as much as I can do.
I discovered so much more about trust. And that my intuition is always spot on.
I learnt to ask. And how to let my heart answer.
I improved at listening. And finally accepted that it's hard for me not to talk.
I realised that people like to help. And I realised that I'm pretty good at helping and supporting myself.
I discovered that in doing less, I am able to give more. And in surrendering to this, I have felt more alive than I ever have.
Almost two weeks ago I caught myself holding my breath. As I exhaled, the word surrender rolled off my tongue.
I knew immediately it was my one word for this year. My reminder to go slowly, to be present, to be kinder to myself.
xx
Have you chosen one word to guide your year? Do you set intentions? I'd love to know. Elisa x
~ Sharing my one word with Bron at Maxabella Loves here.
~ I'm excited to be finally putting my meditation training to good use this year. I'll be creating and soon sending out {monthly is the plan!} some free mindful word/photography prints, plus affirmations and journalling/meditation practices and prompts to go with them. If that sounds like your thing, feel free to add your email address via the form here.
