Beginning at the End

Stephen Covey's advice to "begin with the end in mind" is a call to consider the path by way of the intended destination.  Today is the first day of March as I type, and also Friday, a final day to the traditional workweek of modern society; and a friend of mine has a birthday to celebrate on the final day of March a few week-ends from now.  It occurred to me this morning that these rather arbitrary points, whether weekly or monthly, connote opportunities to begin anew.

Ever strayed from your intended path?  I have, and it less time than it takes to get to another dear friend's birthday a week from now.  Intentions are great, and I believe we need them; but without related action, they're merely wishes doomed to remain unfulfilled.  "If only" happens when Intentions Fail (IF) and I don't redirect myself with I Inevitably Falter (IF), and also the times I fail to replace IF with WHEN.

"When" is a four-letter-word for accountability, and my artsy mind doesn't much care for it.  It feels constrictive and binding and sets a fear of failure tailspin in motion in my gut.  I'd rather be asked a zillion other things but "when."  I tend to meander, and that means usually gets me to the destination...eventually.  But "when" can be constructive in context.

This un-dated planner is a relatively inexpensive route to turning your IFs into WHENs and getting to your ends according to the means fitting with your mindset, lifestyle, and individual aspirations.

Honestly, any paper or electronic device will do for this concept, because it's really about becoming more aware of your inclinations and your follow-through, learning how you operate and altering your approach to get yourself where you want to be.  There is, however, power in the act of putting pen to page in your own hand - no kidding - your brain engages more actively as you engage more senses.  In fact, if you cut open a piece of citrus fruit, use essential oil, or enjoy a peppermint at the same time you set those intentions (whatever the media used), your sensory inputs will heighten your impact.

Jotting with Johnna
Have you written (typed, drawn, sculpted) your vision for your best life?  Belief is so powerful, and it is bolstered in this act.  Brainstorm - including any silly or far-fetched dreams, goals, accomplishments, travel destinations, muscles, skin & hair, relationships, etc. - and make a note of them, dating the event.  Nobody else need see it!  Put that in front of you each day, somehow, and watch your inner dialogue, taking each thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) to the leadership/lordship of Christ.  Yes, your aspirations may change (Psalm 37:4), but you'll be beginning each day with the end in mind, and in the end, you'll begin to see the results (Galatians 6:7-9).

Remember:  you are so very worthy of the actions it takes to ensure your aim and your game match, and that you're walking in the steps ordered for you (Psalm 37:23-24) and run your race (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Stay tuned.  Stay focused.  Stay well.