Do you ever “push” when the door says “pull”?
A few weeks ago, a client made the very astute observation that when it came to finding his calling in life, it felt like he’d been pushing on the door that said “pull.”
How often have we done that ourselves?
We encounter a door and we push and push, wondering why it won’t open. We decide it’s the door’s fault and feel momentarily frustrated before realizing that it clearly tells us to PULL. Then, if you’re like me, you think “duh,” pull and hope no one saw you struggling with the door.
Where in your life are you pushing, when it would be easier to step through the door if you pulled?
Another conversation this week offered an additional perspective about resistance and ease. In talking about a new business idea she had, my friend said, “I know this idea is different from the other ones, where I started out all enthusiastic then tapered off and didn’t complete it.” Because that very phenomenon has happened to me (leaving me with the feeling that I am a starter, not a finisher), I was excited to hear what was different this time for her.
My friend continued: “This time, I know that the idea is going to stick because I don’t feel any urgency about it. I’m enjoying seeing how it unfolds, and now that I’m clear, opportunities are coming across my path left and right!”
Her previously unfinished projects were not the result of an inability to follow through. Instead, they were more reflective of trying to force an outcome (pushing). When we’re clear, open and receptive, we can move through a project or idea with a sense of ease. And because we’re going with the flow (pulling), things often magically fall into place.
If you meet resistance or frustration when attempting to open up a new door, take a moment to notice: are you pushing or forcing things? If so, you might be pushing at the “wrong” door. Look for the door that invites you to open it, that moves towards you and brings things to you.
After all, resistance is futile.
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