Nonstriving

Nonstriving

  • December 5, 2016

“Nonstriving is defined as not trying to get anywhere except into the present moment. Nonstriving means replacing the myth that life is happening somewhere else with the belief that what’s happening now is what really matters. Nonstriving places attention on being, not doing; on seeing, not seeking. It’s process oriented, not goal oriented. Instead of chasing after goals motivated by “musts” and “shoulds” and thinking If only things were different, you simply open to the present moment just as it is, just as you are. As Lao-tzu said, paradoxically, “The way to do is to be” (1944, Epigram 44 {55}). On the path of mindfulness, true self-esteem is being true to yourself.” (Marotta 2013, 77-78)

Inquiry:
Ask yourself: “Do I often find myself striving—trying to push my way forward, competing, and focusing on attaining future results or non-striving—placing attention on what’s happening with clear intentions, focus, observation, and openness on how experience is unfolding in the present moment?”

Practice:
Mindful Observation—Non-striving. Notice when you’re over-working, over-thinking, over-compensating, or over-emotionally driven. Make a mental note Striving, then relax into the experience of present moment with clear intentions.

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