Sunday "To Be" List

During these trying times, it can be easy to get swept up in the chaos and uncertainty. Our "new normal" is somewhat accustomed by now, but no less undefined. I am finding the time passing quicker than before; and I easily become hard on myself for not accomplishing more....for not being more......for not "making the most" of this time. But on Sundays, I try to make a conscious effort to take a step back and reflect. I am learning to be patient with myself. Living alone in complete solitude on a lock-down for 6+ weeks is an accomplishment. Surviving and pivoting to the new norm, in itself, is an accomplishment.

In reading Maria Shriver's Sunday Paper e-newsletter this morning, I was inspired to take today to follow her lead, and to compose a Sunday "To Be" List, alike many of her peers have been doing each week. I compose this list not to add additional pressure and expectations on myself, but to rather set the intention of what I want to put my energy towards, and what I want to focus on moving forward - even when times get tough. This list will assist in giving myself focus when I get caught up in my thoughts, and provide me with attention to things that matter to me greatly. When the lockdowns are over, and "real life" sets foot with the new norms that surround us, what is our why, and what do we want to focus on most?

I encourage you to try it for yourself if you feel propelled to do the same - to give yourself a go-to list of the manifestation of the person you intend to be during this week, during this worldwide pandemic, and beyond.

1. I want to be always appreciative for every effort of communication from my family and friends - whether a text, a call, an email.
2. I want to be forever grateful for the comfort and security I have in my living situation.
3. I want to be of greater service to my community through my choice of education and employment.
4. I want to be cognizant of conscious consumption - supporting local businesses, consuming natural products, decreasing waste, and being mindful of the environmental and social impacts of the products I choose to consume.
5. I want to be someone who channels positive energy and action into my surroundings.
6. I want to be less hard on myself.
7. I want to be someone who feels like she is "enough".
8. I want to be someone who never questions the possibilities for positive change.

Don't forget to remind yourself that you are doing what you can during these times (in whichever way makes sense to you). Be patient with yourself. Be kind to yourself. This too shall pass, and hopefully we will all come out of this experience with greater awareness to the little joys in life, the abundance of community surrounding us, and knowledge of the strength we all have within us.