When you cultivate the qualities for mindful self-esteem, you plant the seed of non-striving. Start by recognizing when striving is occurring. Pay attention to whether your breath is short and shallow or your body is tight and constricted; if you’re overthinking the problem, overlooking the obvious answer, or overfocusing on the result; and if you’re feeling the undercurrent of anxiety, fear, or worry driven by the need to compensate for past failings or accomplish future goals.
Next notice when non-striving is occurring. Pay attention to whether your breath is long and deep or your body is loose and supple; if your thinking is clear, focused, relaxed, and fluid; and if the consequential emotion is one of ease, effectiveness, or well-being. Allow the wholesomeness of non-striving to permeate within so you can play it back again, over and over.
