You know what old people are like...
This post is the 2nd in a series based on the well known poem "The invitation" from Oriah Mountain Dreamer
"It doesn’t interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive."
We use numbers to define our lives.
The number of dollars in our bank account…
The number that pops up when we step on the scale…
The number of friends we have…
Numbers for the purpose of measuring growth can be really helpful.
When those numbers bring limitations we can run into trouble.
I believe one number above all has the power to stop us in our tracks.
The one I’m referring to is the number of candles on your birthday cake.
When an ill-conceived perspective on social norms or a limiting belief about what is and isn’t “appropriate” for someone “your age” takes the place of your actual heart’s desire a shift happens that prohibits you from living authentically.
Personal style, work life, relationships and leisure pursuits are all impacted by your ability to be defined by your longings rather than the restrictions you have placed on your life because of your age.
The writer of The Invitation is interested in what we are actually willing to risk in order to have the life we really want. So am I.
Here are some tips on how to balance limiting beliefs about age to get unstuck.
1. When making a life choice distinguish between your inner world and your outer world. Your inner world speaks to what you long for. Your outer world is about the story you make up about what you believe people will think. Which feels more satisfying, choosing based on the opinions and tastes of others or choosing based on your own desires and natural curiosity?
2. Start small. Perhaps that giant, full back Chinese dragon tattoo you've been dreaming of is too much of a commitment. Consider a subtle shift, see how it feels and thoughtfully expand. A new hairstyle, shop at a store you wouldn't normally go to or sign up for a couple of lessons for something you've wanted to try.
3. Get inspired. Who do you admire and what about the way they live would you like to have more of in your own life? This isn't about trading in your desires for theirs but rather finding a healthy level of inspiration from those whom you admire.
There is untapped love and life in each of us.
Removing the walls that keep us from that love and life not only serves us but also serves the world.
I believe that process makes God smile.