3 Gifts/Resolutions: Presence, Clarity and Openess

I am a college professor by trade, and as the semester draws to a close, I am feeling tired and weary. Any like many people around this time of the year, I am reflecting back on what I have done and what I want to do in the near future. So although New Year's is still a few weeks away, I created a simple list of resolutions/gifts for myself.

1. Be Present

When I am interrupted by someone, sometimes I forget to be present with that person.  I am eager to multitask and divide my attention between that person and what I am currently working on.  Sometimes I think that I am a PC with Windows.  I think I can run an application in the background while working on another program in the foreground.

I am renewing my commitment to do only one thing at a time.  I may be a little less efficient, but I will be more engaged and present!

When I am interrupted by someone, I will either stop and give them my full attention or ask them to wait until I am at a stopping point in my work. 

2. Be Clear About Being UnClear

Sometimes I make decisions when I am confused or not sure what the best answer is.  In those times, I feel an internal pressure to make a decision and thus come up short.

My goal is to give myself permission to be comfortable in the unknown gray areas.  I will answer IDK in moment of uncertainty rather than force an answer. 

3. Be Open

For a long time, being organized, linear in my thinking, and in control helped me.  I was able to go to school and work full-time at the same time and keep my sanity.  Being organized helped me organize over 250 events including retreats, workshops, and parties.

Now, I am adopting a new way of living where I am less likely to be in control and be more open to going with the flow regardless of the pace.  I am committed to learning the fun in letting go and accepting what is right in front of me.  And with a few weeks off from work, that will prove to be quite a time to practice this resolution.

I hope these are commitments that I will uphold for the duration of the year and then some.  May you enjoy the holiday season and also have the opportunity to be present, clear and open as well!