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The Power of Now vs. To-Do List

A client of mine recently e-mailed me, "Don't you think 'The Power of Now' and to-do lists are polar extremes?"

I was struck by his astute observations. Sometimes I do feel that my to-do list is taking me away from being present in the moment.

Interestingly, earlier that same morning, I was being presented with the opportunity to choose: go with the flow and do what I want to do (visit the U.C. Botanical Garden), or do what is on my to-do list.

I decided that, since my priority in life is: my Spiritual Self first, my family second and work third, I chose to go to the Botanical Garden. It feels very good whenever I stick to my priorities and connect with my Self first.

When I arrived at the garden, I noticed that I was feeling quite excited with anticipation of the wonders I would see there. By the time I reached the Garden of Old Roses, I was positively elated and giddy like a child. I wondered why aren't we more joyous as adults? I heard myself answering, "Because it is more important to be 'together' than to be happy." This is funny, because I can see how that has been true for me many times, and perhaps it is true for you as well. We, as adults, are expected to be calm and collected even if we are happy. The expression of joy often is expected to be contained and controlled, especially in public places. one must "act like a sensible adult."

After appreciating my subconscious for bringing up the limiting belief so I could shift it, I decided right then and there to allow myself to fully express the delight I felt inside me. I decided to let my joy flow out of me in whatever way it wanted to. I blessed the world I saw with love, poems, songs, laughter and appreciation. And what a powerful and unparalleled NOW I experienced in that time-space: each moment was sweet, special and beautiful. I was having a wonderful date with Life!

I noticed that as I appreciated Life, I was feeling appreciated, blessed and fulfilled in return. I felt very spacious inside!

I sat on a bench just smiling and loving life. And it only took one hour out of my day.

Later, when I was ready to begin with my to-do list, I was eager, energized and inspired. I was very excited to begin my work. I loved that the first email I read was from my client with the question above. I saw it as a sign from the Universe that taking care of my Spirit first was the right choice for me.

Because of the spaciousness I felt within, it was so much easier for me to be present when I took care of my to-do list. I also had the extra added benefit: my Presence infused my tasks with a new level of joy and lightness of being!

If you find yourself fighting your to-do list, perhaps you might consider that you are being invited to take care of your Self by connecting with your Spirit first. Accept that invitation! And be open to be delightfully surprised at how effortlessly and effectively you can take care of your to-do list.

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