Lean In or Step Back

"The human mind always makes progress, 

but it is a progress in spirals."

Madame De Stael

The painter never paints just one canvas. A poet has more than one sonnet. The Chef de Cuisine has numerous versions of a recipe. We are subconsciously nudged to do better. Our repetitive behavior continues to circle until we are directed elsewhere. Much to our surprise, however, we will often find ourselves at the beginning again.

There is nothing worse than finalizing a piece of work having done what we think is our best, only to have it returned with a 'do over' printed on top. There are situations where we have mastered the task, but somehow it comes back around as though checking to see if we have indeed learned the lesson.

The swirling learning curve becomes more tolerable when we are paying attention. With awareness, we can catch and realign before spinning out of control. We have the choice to lean in closer to see the finer print or step back for a broader view. It is not about perfection! It is about making progress towards becoming whole.

Master The Spiral

"The human mind always makes progress,

but it is a progress in spirals."

Madame de Stael

When we spiral upwards, joy fills every cell of our being creating a sense of heavenly bliss. Filled with curiosity, we eagerly move forward as our light brightens the way. Inevitably, the opposite comes true. We eventually find ourselves sliding downwards in darkness and fear. This is the on going movement within our cycles.

The upward spiral heals and encourages us. We feel powerful with enthusiasm to take on the world. This, however, may be fleeting as we find ourselves challenged or maybe even threatened as we backslide. The importance of course is to continue moving, not ever becoming stuck and never giving up.

If we remain alert when we are in the spiral, action can drive us forward. Without wasting time wandering in the darkness, we can remember this is simply part of the process offering the opportunity to change. As we learn to shift maintaining a positive attitude, we can benefit from both the ups and the downs. A learning process, indeed.