Dreams Come Alive

Whipped out for a midnight half marathon last night and had a pleasurable couple of hours. Achieved and maintained an almost hypnotic pace and rhythm and everything just seemed to flow. Mind you, it wasn’t easy to get started. Returning home from work a little before 10pm, my body’s circadian rhythm was sending me sleep signals and I vacillated between lacing up and lying down. The temptation to do the latter was strong but by visualising and allowing my senses to fully experience the benefits of working out, the pull of the jog emerged victorious.

I derive enormous benefits from working out. I am in a generally better mood and a much happier person. I look younger, I sleep better, I feel stronger, I think clearer, I eat fuller and I smile wider. I am a whole lot more refreshed and invigorated and as a result work becomes more efficient and relationships improve. I get a lot done and my life is more organised. Even my libido gets a massive boost. I thrive.   

Thus by focusing on the benefits, going for a run becomes a choice and not an obligation. This seemingly subtle difference between a ‘want to’ and a ‘have to’ is a salient and significant one. Having to do something induces pressure and as human beings our self preservation instincts cause us to push when pushed. This creates resistance and leads ultimately to a futile and fatigued struggle that accomplishes nothing.

Energy is better put to use when we choose to do something in full awareness of the benefits that our decisions bring. This acceptance of circumstances, ownership of actions and subsequent responsibility of results creates more energy and gives us greater control of our lives. We become in charge of our lives and we just can’t wait to go out and make things happen. At least this is the case for me and certainly that of most happy and successful people I personally know or know of.

Choose your life.