I was recently in Los Angeles for a 3 day marketing conference to learn how to be a better marketer in my career coaching practice. It was an awesome learning experience and an eye opener which led me to try something new which I had previously dismissed as “not for me”.
I found myself in a room with a lot of holistic healers. Hmm…I was in sunny California with lots of sprouts, avocados, veggie and fruit juicing, massage therapy, meditation, and spiritual leaders… and just a downright relaxed attitude. Not something a Type -A, New Yorker like myself could easily get into. But, this time it caused me to PAUSE.
The facilitator used meditation every morning to help us to center ourselves and be ready (in a calm way) for the very long day and to be open to whatever happened in the day. Okay a little woo-woo, and I admit I kept one eye open during the process. But, as I focused on my breathing, became still and just listened to her guided meditation, I really liked it.
When I got home, I investigated further. My research led me to chakras, Om, mantras, inner peace, and creativity. It was fascinating to me. So when I received an e-mail from Oprah introducing me to Deepak Chopra’s free 21 Days of Guided Meditation, I decided to try it. I found that being a skeptic actually helped as I learned to just let the negative labels go and be in the moment. I also found that I gifted myself with 20 minutes of quietness each morning. I felt less stress and anxiety as I started my day. So, now I am a believer and new practitioner of meditation.
The moral of the story: Think about what new ideas or thinking you have turned your nose up at in the past. Why not PAUSE and reframe your rejection to one of acceptance and a “try it” attitude. You may just find something you love that will be part of your life…I did. Namaste.
Hallie Crawford and Katie Weiser
Career Coaches
P.S. Are you in the ideal career for you? Find out if you’re in the right career with our Ideal Career Quiz.
