Beautiful Day
I often used to wake up in the morning dreading the day ahead. I was filled with stress and anxiety over countless details.
During school, it was whether or not I was prepared for all my classes. The impending critical essay and whether my argument was sound enough. The lab projects where my data wasn’t lining up with theory. Near term tests or the looming week of final exams. It was unending.
When I was in the professional world, I was greatly concerned with the quality of my work. Did it measure up to my superior’s expectations. Was I doing enough to make it to the next level? For the companies I was running, was I an inspiring, collaborative colleague and leader? And were we doing enough to meet the market opportunities.
Every morning was the same – worrying about the day (or week, or month) ahead.
Somehow I convinced myself that this agonizing level of brooding was valuable. Or at the very least, useful.
What I didn’t appreciate (until much later) was that I was starting out each day on a very low note. Sticking with the musical metaphor, you could say I was beginning my days in a tragically minor key.
A lot of people talk about the value of their morning routine, whether that’s starting with exercise, a cold shower, meditation, or what have you. I’m not much of a morning person, but I do think there is great value in setting positive intentions for the day.
Each of us is unique in what motivates us, but we all share a desire to be filled with happiness. And one of the best ways I’ve found to experience that wonderful feeling is to open myself to joy. I love the way Mark Twain puts it: “Give every day the chance to become the most beautiful day of your life.”
Rather than imposing my judgment on what is and what’s to come, I can instead simply allow the day to be spectacular. And from such a mindset follows joyful peace.
Wishing you a beautiful day!
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