stillness within

Stillness starts within the space between our ears. If we can’t quiet our thoughts long enough to think about things bigger and deeper than the daily torrent of thoughts, then we’ll never achieve the kind of stillness that we may be searching for.writes about.
Some ways to find stillness within:

1. Be fully present.

Many of our daily thoughts are concerned with what was and what is to come. We’re thinking about how we handled a past conversation, or we’re planning how to handle a future task or problem. Take time every day to think only of the present moment. Nothing else matters. 

2. Empty your mind of preconceptions.

It’s a survival instinct for humans to take past situations and apply knowledge of that experience to the future. We want to anticipate how things might go. The downside, of course, is that we’re unable to accept the present moment for what it is if we’re constantly trying to predict how it will turn out.

3. Take your time.

Stillness isn’t something you’ll learn in a 30-day challenge. Practice patience and repetition. If you’re struggling after the first few days, show yourself some compassion. Real and lasting change takes time.

4. Sit quietly and reflect.

This is especially important during times of big change or stress. Considering a big change? Take some time—as much as you can—to sit with your thoughts and analyse it from all angles. How does this change make you feel? What possible outcomes scare you? Which ones excite you?

5. Reject distraction.

Stillness can’t happen on the couch with Netflix in the background, at least not in the beginning. Stillness is an internal state of being, but it takes time to build up the muscle that allows you to be internally still while external distractions are present.

6. Weigh advice against the counsel of your convictions.

Let’s return to the career example. You’ve likely reached out to peers, family and trusted friends for help making your decision. Although well meaning, much of that advice is likely conflicting, and it represents the perspectives of another person who has lived an entirely different experience from you. Trust your intuition by giving your mind time to deeply analyze the decision.

7. Deliberate without being paralyzed.

A word of caution for the overthinkers: Don’t mistake thoughtful reflection and analysis with action. The decision must be made, and even avoiding a decision is one, too. If you’re feeling paralyzed, set an expiration date for yourself.
Namaste