Living your Bliss Responsibly
I often work long hours. I have deadlines to meet so it is understandable but the real concern is identifying with working more than any other thing, in other words, it becomes habitual and addictive, because I enjoy what I do. I’d rather be writing and using my brain than watching television, that’s for sure. If I have a good good book on the go, that is a draw away from the computer, but not a really strong one. Clearly writing and creating is a passion of mine.
There is a power to a passion. Think of taking back our power and owning our gifts. Good stuff! But with power comes responsibility.
The flip side is misusing our passion, your bliss — to retreat into our own world. It can take many different forms. For example we can get into a state of self importance when we are up against a deadline, and neglect other important aspects of life such as our relationships.
In an over busy work mode we might not be ‘there’ for our families: sometimes virtually and sometimes mentally: while we might be there physically taking care of their needs (cooking and cleaning, etc.) our minds are some place else. Family and relationships can get demoted and in this heightened self important state they can actually feel like a hindrance. If you have ever been on the receiving end of that one, when the feeling you get is that you are not as important as finishing this report is - especially if it becoming a habit, you know it doesn’t feel very good.
Work and life balance is so important: quality time away from the work, giving yourself fully to your family, taking care of your body and mind exercise and meditation, contemplation, and time spent in nature. In other words, balance is needed to ensure that you do not begin to identify more with your passion and your work, more than anything else. This is the feng shui of following your bliss.
(c) Deborah Redfern, 2008. All rights reserved.
