Built to Sustain

There shouldn’t be any surprise that through your consistent practice of mindfulness, structure, systems and organization, you will be put to the test. Simply implementing good habits within your life doesn’t absolve you from the trials and obstacles that come along in life. These practices-instead-help us to better prepare. In fact, they are one of the primary reasons for why they are put into place. I believe that many people are confused about this, but I understand where the misunderstanding may occur. You can start to feel good about yourself when you create a system for your life and you begin to see the positive results because of it-all feels right within the world. This can go on for a while until one day things start to unravel and you don’t quite understand why things aren’t going according to plan. You lose focus. It’s important to understand that the presence of a system doesn’t stop things from going awry-it prevents things from continuing to spiral out of your control. It is the rope that suddenly appears or the rock from the ledge meant for you to grab on and climb back up. This is why structure and systems are important.

The impact of your systems being put to the test can be brutal to the mind, body, and your spirit-before, after, and during this period. Drainage may occur which is why it is imperative that you replenish. Replenishment can happen in a number of ways but I encourage you to sit quietly without the presence of any digital devices, pens, pencils, notepads-just you. Reflect, meditate, pray on what is happening-eyes closed. Consider what you are going through or have gone through, reflecting on what you are overcoming or your achievements, the benefits of your systems and how you were sustained throughout the trail. You must give yourself credit during your moment of replenishment. Think about the impact of your systems. If they were not helpful, consider their flaws and areas where they can be improved.

Periodic check-ins and replenishment phases with yourself are important as you go through trials. Especially if they seem to continue for prolonged periods. Ensure that you don’t enter battle after battle without rebuilding yourself. These battles can weigh on you, but also try not to group them all into one pile. Place each trail in its place. Some tests are small and easily manageable. These small hurdles can be viewed as just the cost of being alive. Try not to view these minor issues as things that are overwhelming. You will get through these. 

Then there are things that may come at you that are a little on the abnormal side of life and may require more out of you. Coupled with the minor issues, things can get tough. This is why I say not to group everything all together. This will cause confusion, overreactions, or even inaction. You will get through these too, but they will require more focus, more discipline, and more structure. Trust your system and be sure to replenish throughout this journey. You have what it takes.

Reflect on everything that you’ve gone through in your life. Think back on the times when you didn’t feel like you would make it through-yet you did. You’ve been made stronger and wiser because of it. Perhaps, then, there was no system in place and the road was rocky. Now, however, you have a working system that is built to sustain you. Think about how much smoother the journey can be. Take pit stops along the way to refuel, recharge, and replenish before finishing your journey. You will get through, once again.