In one art class with my teacher in 2012, I was experiencing this immense sense of happiness and well-being. This unfolded into this painting which I titled Bliss. The only painting that I kept for myself. The others were either gifted to others or auctioned off.
As I was writing a birthday reflection last month, this painting came to mind.
I got to do bits of things I love and enjoy today – being moments with loved ones, mindfulness practice, reading, writing, confirming my travel plans, an impromptu 1-1 Flourish session and even my consulting work. Bliss.
As you can see from list, exercise not included. I did do some stretching. But for me exercise is a discipline for my well being; not something I naturally love and enjoy. 😂
The reflection highlighted two main areas:
💝 Awareness of WHAT energises YOU?
It’s so valuable and useful to be fully aware of what activities energises you and what depletes you. While it is not practical to have a day filled with only energizing activities, having the awareness of YOUR preferences allows you to avoid burnout.
For example, having engaging conversations & company energises me while doing administrative work ain’t one that I enjoy too much. As such I ensure that I also include fun activities on days that are filled with administrative tasks.
This is one way to ensure that you continue to flourish in spite of workload or events happening in your life.
If you’ve a copy of my book Freedom Embraced: How to be Flourish and be Happy at Work, you can read more about this in the chapter on Heartwork and Happiness Pg 100.
💕 Appreciation
It was lovely receiving birthday well wishes from family, friends and clients. Especially the ones that had specific appreciative comments on who I am in relation to them.
Specific compliments or appreciation has amazing power in making someone’s day. And it is something that we can actively engage in with full awareness each day in our interactions with others.
Receiving a specific compliment/ appreciation: Thank you for that encouraging and useful feedback on my pitch deck on how I could highlight the strengths better.
Receiving a general compliment/ appreciation: You are good.
It’s Monday tomorrow, the start of a work week for many.
Perfect opportunity to create ripples of joy at your workplace. Give a colleague, your manager or the people you come into contact with an appreciative sharing.
Make their day! 🌞