I Get To, Do You
How many times have you said the words, “I have to ________(fill in the blank)?” Believe me, I can’t begin to count the number of times I’ve said that in my life. “I have to go grocery shopping” or “I have to go to work” or “I have to clean the house.” Imagine all the times you’ve said that in a day. Over the last few months, every time those words have left my mouth, I’ve made an effort to exchange them from “I have to” to “I get to.” Doesn’t that have a lighter and happier feeling in your body?
When people have things on their calendar that they are looking forward to they most likely say, “I get to do this” or “I get to do that.” If we could tweak our mindset on the not-so-fun things just a little, our daily tasks becomes easier. We get to choose every minute of every day how we use our time. I’m not suggesting everything is unicorns, rainbows and a whole lot of fun, but I am saying we have a choice on how we react. Of course there are some tasks that aren’t so appealing but they are a necessity in making our life better.
I’ve always dreaded the plank section in yoga, however, this week I went in with a mindset of saying to myself, “I get to do planks.” While I was in the pose, I was thanking my body for it’s strength and ability in keeping me lifted, albeit shaky. Another dreaded task is grocery shopping, but this week I went in the store with an open heart knowing, some people don’t have the luxury of a grocery store, or running in for a few items. Or how about cleaning bathrooms? I’m thankful for hot showers along with city water and sewer.
When we use the simple three words, “I get to,” it changes the perspective and mindset. Suddenly, it will feel more like a blessing. What if we used these words when we have to do chores such as cleaning the house, washing the dishes, doing laundry, mowing the lawn, or going to the dentist. Using this to reframe challenging or mundane situations feels more like a gift than a chore. “I get to do laundry, so I have fresh clean clothes to wear tomorrow.” Moving forward, I’m making an effort to change my mindset, from dreading tasks to being thankful I’m still able to do them.
We need to change our mindset to think in terms of opportunities rather than obligations. Play with these three words this week and notice if there is a difference in your mood or perspective. I’m guessing you’ll feel happier and more blessed. What are the bigs and littles you GET to do? Celebrate every last one. Because, I get to, do you?
xoxox…..Sheryl