As a life strategist, one of the places I see people struggle is recognizing who they are and the gifts that are already theirs to claim. There is great pressure to look outward and to “think outside the box” in pursuit of a “better you”. So much so that we forget to examine “inside the box” first and see what we may already have within our grasp that can be used to propel us into our true purpose.
One of my favorite exercises we go through is an inventory of knowledge and skills. The challenge is to take your age and come up with at least that many items of knowledge or skill that you have demonstrated in the course of your life.
The first half is typically very easy for us to record. The next group might take some thought but we can typically come up with it. It’s that last group of 15 – 25% that seems to stump us. But in almost every case, the real gems come from that group.
Since this pattern proved out time and time again, it intrigued me. I began to look deeper at why this might be true. It seems that what we have most enjoyed in life about ourselves we tend to think of as “less important” because it may not be associated with our professional life and endeavors. We operate from the misconception that what we most enjoy is a “sideline” or “hobby” or even something we do “just for fun”. In truth, quite often it could become more central in our life, even be the secret ingredient for creating our most purpose-driven work.
When we start from where we are with the idea that we already have abundance within ourselves, exploring “inside the box” takes on new meaning.
What about you? If you are dissatisfied with your life, perhaps it’s because you’re focusing on what you don’t have – what is “outside your box”.
Try a new approach. Take inventory “inside your box”. Re-focus on what you have and what it can mean to you for building a richer, more satisfying life.
Of one thing I am certain. You are going to find a gift.
An AH-HA moment. I believe you are absolutely correct, and I may just use your suggestion for writing my 500 words tomorrow night. I have to come up with quite a few items though! Can I pretend I’m 25. That’s 35 less to come up with. Do you really think I’ll find a gift. I’m up for looking inside the box if you are. Would love to see your list and those of others!
Thanks for posting. This is a beautiful website!
Sharon
You brought me a smile today, Sharon! I’m right there with you! I KNOW you will find a gift. Something you loved and over time have forgotten that is just quietly waiting for you to remember it! It took me well over a week to do mine when I first did this. I put the paper on my frig and wrote something on it every time I passed and over the week, it filled up. I also had to make some calls to people that have known me over the years. I just asked them this question: From your (memory or knowledge) of me, what would you say were my favorite things to do? Not only did I get some ideas for my list – it also brought back warm memories. Have fun with it. There is ALWAYS a gift.
I love this idea Kathi. How refreshing and encouraging! Thanks for sharing this! I like the idea of turning your attention from what you lack outside to what you have inside. How empowering!
I agree, Sharon! I believe everything meaningful begins with gratitude and that means acknowledging what we have already been given! It is amazing to me how much abundance we overlook and are willing to trade for something less than we have at times. It’s like driving around looking for a gas station all day when your tank was already full!
Ooh, the list! What a great tool. I’ll give it a try. Thanks, Kathi.
Hi Kendra! I know – I love lists as well. Enjoy mining your gold!