Gotta hold on to that feelin'!

When we were looking to buy a house, Adam would lovingly ask me, “So...when do you think you’re going to have the feeling that it’s the right one?” To which I would lovingly reply, “I’ll know it when it happens.”

One year ago today, we bought our first home. It’s perfect - a sweet, modest ranch with a bright blue door. Right now, there are hundreds of roses blooming in the front and sprouts emerging from our garden in the back. 

“The feeling” is something I try to notice with every decision I make. I bet you know what I mean...There’s a certain somatic response when something just feels right, (or not). 

Although I’ve had oodles of technical training, “the feeling,” is the teacher I try to listen to first. So, as a Cinco de Mayo, “housiversary” celebration, I offer you these three tips for making decisions (and changes) in your life…

Breathe.

If you know me, you know I talk about breath. A lot. (If you know me, I’ve probably asked you to take a few breaths with me.) Breathing is something we need to survive, but an action we often forget to observe. There are various techniques out there, from “breath of fire” to “square breathing,” but I suggest simply noticing your breath. Is it deep or shallow? Do you feel it more in your chest or your back? Your belly or your cheeks? Is it warm or cool?

When you pay attention to your breath, your nervous system will relax and your body and mind will enjoy pausing, if only for a moment.

Take a scan.

I used to stand during staff meetings just so I could do this. When the topic got heated, (or let’s be honest, monotonous), I would take a scan of my body to notice what felt tight or restricted, open or pain-free. 

Now I do this when making big decisions or when confronted with contentious situations, (or even faced with the immensely privileged, but sometimes overwhelming decision of buying shampoo). 

Starting at your head and moving down to your toes, feel your two feet on the ground, remember you are held, supported and strong.

Ask.

With a calm nervous system and an awareness of your body, now it’s time to ask yourself: “What does my body need right now?” “What does my heart want?” “Is there anything I need to say?” “How is my mind?” From there, decide what the next best step is for you.

As I coach and train, guiding entrepreneurs, schools and businesses, I do my best to remember this strategy. I offer it to them (and to you) as one way to slow this life thing down a bit. 

Give it a try and let me know how it goes. Who knows? The next big decision might be easier to make than you thought, (roses and all).