You can’t connect the dots going forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something- your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever.”
Steve Jobs
I just love this quote! I mean, how many things can you really do backwards? You can’t age backwards (although I am still not giving up hope). You can’t read a book backwards (sometimes I do peek at the ending). But, one thing that only works backwards is connecting the dots. During my time of great transformation, when I felt unproductive and lazy, so much in the unseen was actually happening. Even though I was carrying such heavy energy and was unable to figure out what was next, I now look back and connect the dots…. Wow!
I disagree with the part where you have to trust something. I am not so sure I did. I just knew that no matter what, I had to quit Corporate. I couldn’t get to the end of my life without finding the courage to leave. Even if I never created anything new going forward.
I also knew I had to find my way back to happy. So I started to pay attention to what made me feel good. I was on a journey to find joy. My house literally became a giant vision board (much to the dismay of my family). There were literally magazine clippings, inspiring quotes and color samples, taped to every wall. I was able to feel what sparked magic in me and that spark ignited my creativity.
Finding joy created an explosion of happiness, playfulness and fun. And through that time, little did I know I was creating something bigger than I could have imagined. Like what? A company called “The Suburban Monk”. And a statue, named Syd who would win the hearts of people all over the world!
When I finally got out of my own way and allowed myself to just find joy and be playful, things started to happen. The magic keeps multiplying and attracting more colorful dots that line the path to something spectacular. Hint… jewelry and pajamas anyone?
I now believe that Syd was there all along. But, unwilling to give me a hint of the future. I needed to go step by step. Emotion by emotion. And eventually I would be able to look back and connect the dots.
Do you have your Syd yet? Seriously guys, he is the best. He is pure joy. Pure magic. And, the best guide to helping you connect the dots!
Xoxo Ellen
What’s a time in your life when you were courageous?
Please share. I could discuss these things all day.
#getmonked #LiveLaughMonk
