“I’m Done Trying to be Great”
I’m done trying to be great.
These were the words that came to mind as I sought to complete an item on my to-do list today.
I’d put together a short to-do list before going on break. Nothing crazy, just a few things to help me get organized and prepare for the next six months, which will likely be just as intense as the last.
But running errands wasn’t going exactly as expected. So, I stopped and asked myself: “Is this something I really need to do right now?”
And I soon realized it wasn’t.
“I’m on break. My priority is to disconnect, rest, exercise, and get some sun.”
What I Realized
On my walk, I took some time to think about why my mind was feeding me those words: “I’m done trying to be great.”
And the answer was forthcoming, and much simpler than expected.
I need more rest, and my resilience isn’t at its best. That’s it!
It’s funny how much tiredness and fatigue can affect your mood and state of mind. Sometimes, it isn’t deeply seated trauma from childhood or an all-out spiritual battle. Sometimes it’s just that you’ve had too much caffeine!
What I’m saying is:
It’s altogether too easy to overthink and over-intellectualize everything. Sometimes the answers are right under your nose.
Is This Something I Need to do Right Now?
While reflecting, I also recognized the value of this question.
If you’re an ambitious creative or creator, chances are you have a to-do list a mile long already. Although everyone says to prioritize, this can be tough when you have so many tasks and projects to consider.
What I’m beginning to discover, though, is that about 80% of my list either doesn’t need to be done now or doesn’t need to be done at all.
By that logic, you should only be left with 20% of your list, which you should find easier to prioritize.
If you want to take it a step further, then do as Tim Ferriss does and find the one decision that removes 100. Find and focus on the one thing that will make most if not all others a mere triviality.
But if you do choose this path, know one thing – it may take days, weeks, or even months of thinking and reflection to uncover what that one thing is.
So, Am I Done Trying to be Great?
Well, in a manner of speaking, yes.
I’m done trying to be great when I can’t even be expected to be at, or give, my best.
Those hours are best spent in a cocoon – getting away from electronics, resting, getting some exercise, and bathing in the sun. If the world permits, travel, and pool as well.
This can also be a good time to think and reflect. But only if I’m ready. If I need to give my mind a rest too, I will.
It’s one thing to try to be Superman when you’re at your best, but you’ve got to switch that off while you’re on break. Expectations should be loosed. Surrender and let go. Don’t be hard on yourself.
This seems to create more flow in life, anyway. Things come easier when you aren’t trying so hard. And maybe it’s the best way to live.
Leave greatness to superheroes. Be you because that’s what people are going to be attracted to. Being you is how you will find your unique purpose, voice, and calling. Being you is the magic that attracts all you desire in life.
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