Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Timing is everything

I have noticed that when timing is just right, things go smoothly and fall into place with minimal effort. When we try to control too much of what is going on, we may be missing out on the opportunities to go with the flow. A really full schedule does not have any room for surprises. “Of course not,” you may be saying, “that’s the whole point.” Yet, have you considered the value of suddenly having open space, time and resources, without a plan for their use? The possibilities are endless, as long as one remains receptive and intentionally present to allow unexpectedness to enter. Perhaps you have already experienced this and remember how carefully constructed the ‘coincidence’ was and how much it amazed you.

I propose that we do this more often, find time where ‘nothing’ is planned or scheduled, where we keep an open mind and calendar to see what shows up. For me, invariably, it’s a phone call or a visit, someone unexpected, someone with a really good conversation, an offer, someone who needs my input just then- there are all sorts of options and potential that would not come if I was tightly planned out.

So, how about it? Can you afford to keep an hour free with the intention that you will follow whatever shows up during that time? You could intend to make it a YES experience, expecting delight and fun surprises. You have nothing to lose and some delight to gain.
I usually hold such an intention while continuing to work at my desk, without deadlines or total focus, keeping an eye and ear open. It’s quite lovely to just allow for things to come to us without trying. It might just become a weekly habit - why not give it a try?

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