Acceptance

Have you ever noticed that confident people don’t worry? Really, think about the most self-confident person you know (not arrogant, that’s a whole other topic!)

Are they stuck in anxiety, overwhelm and worry? Not very likely. And if they DO occasionally have those times, I’m guessing it’s not for very long, and seems fairly uncharacteristic of them. Why is that?

I’m no expert, but I think it’s because those people know and understand the gift of acceptance. They don’t waste time railing against the negative emotions. They recognize the setback, acknowledge and accept it for what it is: temporary. Elizabeth Gilbert likes to remind her emotions, that while they are welcome to tag along, they must sit in the passenger’s seat, because today, she is driving! I love that!

I had a friend help me with worry a few years ago. She didn’t have any magic answers, but she shared her perspective on acceptance (not to be mistaken with surrender.) She told me that she accepted that she has a choice about her thoughts. Some lead to worry and others to embracing what is. I have borrowed her wise words and since then have come to adopt that same perspective.

I realized that I cannot be both worried and also confident. I cannot be using my brain for possibilities and creation if I have already given it to defeat and defensiveness. It’s one or the other, and I get to choose. It’s not easy, takes some work. I'm not implying there is a right or wrong choice for you, that’s up to you. Just know when you choose the thoughts, you also choose the accompanying feeling. Make your choice and love your reasons.

Let me know what you think? Is acceptance a bridge too far for you? I’m a work in progress, I hope I always am. I hope you are too.

As my Aunt Mary used to say, “kinda like ya!”

Next week we get talking about those little whispers and the value they bring.

If you are wrestling with an aspect of being human(!) let’s talk and set it on another course for you. It’s already taken up too much of your energy.

Schedule a free mini private session here.

Grateful for you,

Anne