The Root Cause

Happy New Year. Well, almost.  

"Today has a good beet." - Monica Joy 12/30/2013

Earlier today I was reminded of an important belief: Doing it is much better than thinking about it. I had fallen out of my running routine and have been getting back to it over the last few days. This morning I decided that the only way I knew for sure that I would complete my cross-training workout was to get out of bed and do it. My partner Jeff always says, "I really regret going to the gym today...said no one ever." This is always a true statement.

When I arrived at work this morning I reflected on how much better I felt. I didn't have my daily goal on my mind, because I already completed it. I wasn't plagued by the fear that I would be too tired to do it after work. I just did it and felt great for the rest of the day. 

About five years ago I had an Experience that shifted my self-perception. I realized how important my word and commitment to myself is. I can do anything, as long as I GO FOR IT. Sure, some things will never come naturally but with intention and commitment, I can learn to do so many things. 

This belief is the "root" of my many endeavors over the last few years. I run because I once believed I couldn't. During my long runs (especially during marathon training) I have come across many of the reasons why I believe I can't do something. Here's the thing about that...

"Ode to World Run Day" - Monica Joy 11/10/13

I have a choice about whether I am going to believe those things or not. 

You have that choice too. If you are "thinking" about that goal you haven't started or that thing you have been putting off doing, STOP. Create a plan and start today. It will only get harder as time goes on. Don't waste your energy on the fear. Use your physical, emotional, and mental energy to complete your goal. 

I moved to Austin in April and knew there would a transition in my life where I couldn't focus on my art. I needed to champion my goal of building a wonderful life here.  I have had an amazing 8 months here. I love my job, the relationships I am developing, and the art classes I have been taking. I am obsessed with our year round farmer's market and all of the wonderful produce I get there. I am in love with beets, and this is reflected in the silkscreening and embroidery I have been focused on here.

"The Roots of a Crewel World" - Monica Joy 2013

About mid-day today I realized that I needed to take my own advice and re-examine my artistic goals. Setting aside my papercutting for other things was important, and has also set me back in my fears about pursing this passion. I took my own advice today and committed to a papercut and blog entry. You can't "beet" that!

Happy New Year.
Monica

p.s. If you need some support with your goal, feel free to contact me. If you haven't read it, "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz may be just what you need to read right now.