In my previous blog, we discussed one of the most important habits of highly effective people, as well as the difference between being proactive or reactive and its effects on our meditation journey. Today, I would like to draw your attention to another habit learnt from the same book "7 Habits of highly effective people" by Stephen Covey.
The last habit is "Sharpening the saw" that focuses on the main activities that can renew your body, mind & soul. These activities vary and serve different dimensions of our lives, such as:
Physical: Eat & sleep well, exercise on a regular basis
Spiritual: Meditation, yoga, communication with nature, immersing yourself with great music
Mental: Journalling, reading great books, watching specific tv programs/movies that enrich your life and mind
Social/Emotional: Spending time with family, seek to understand other people, help them to improve, listen to them, ask for help, contribute to meaningful projects, being in a healthy relationship, building true friendships, living in a healthy environment
In order to have a balanced life, we need to pay attention to all these dimensions. It is a journey in and of itself which takes time, experience, dedication, commitment, and attention to reach the destination.
Having access to an inspirational source and a wise mentor can change the way you look at life, make decisions and reach balance.
Therefore, I would like to share a Ted Talk with you and a poem from one of the most important Persian poets from the 13th century, Rumi.
Rumi has been an inspiration to lots of people around the world and if you are interested in mindfulness, you will definitely enjoy it. If you like to know more about him here are some great recommended books:
The 40 rules of love written by Elif Shafak
The essential Rumi translated by Coleman Barks
Here is a recommended Ted Talk and a short piece of one of Rumi's poems:
https://www.ted.com/talks/emily_esfahani_smith_there_s_more_to_life_than_being_happy#t-720812
“This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
As an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still treat each guest honourably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.”
Sometimes a book, a short video or a powerful poem can change someone's life and enrich the mentioned dimensions of our lives.