10 out of 10

In my work as a coach I often have clients who aren’t happy in their life. They need something to change but are unsure of where to start. They tell me of the things they feel they should or are supposed to be doing … but are never quite sure of who says they should / supposed to do those things. When I ask them to tell me, out of 10, how much they want to do it, are committed to it – the answer is never a 10 out of 10.

Don’t get me wrong, I know there are things in life that need to be done that are rarely a 10 out of 10 (household chores come to mind) … what I’m referring to here are the principle activities in your life. Maybe it’s your job? Maybe it’s how you fill the majority of your days. Without having something there that excites you, that makes you willingly jump out of bed in the morning – you do run that risk of not being entirely happy. And who doesn’t want to be happy?

I know all too well myself what it feels like to be working in a job where you’re not happy. Where you feel you aren’t appreciated or making any difference. Yes – it was great having a regular income coming in … but it was sapping my spirit, my soul and my energy. Was that a price I was willing to pay? For me, it was a price too high. And so I quit that job and instead looked at how I can do things that excite me, that fulfil me and that give me a sense of making a difference. Having gone through that process myself – I want to help you go through it as well.

During the lockdowns we’re all facing I understand how it can be a struggle to find things that excite you and motivate you. Start with the little things – perhaps find a song or a piece of music that makes you feel happy and want to get up and dance – and play it during those moments when you are feeling low. For me – it is Pata Pata from Miriam Makeba that lifts me up every time. Have a listen for yourself and see if it makes you want to dance too!

Maybe it’s cooking a favourite meal or curling up on the sofa to watch your favourite film or television programme or read a book. Whatever it is for you – make sure you have at least one 10 out of 10 thing in your day.

Invitation: Make time each day in your life for something that excites you, that is a 10 out of 10.

If you feel moved to take this invitation,  I invite you to share what you are noticing below.