As the new year begins, we inevitably consider changes we can make in order to improve our lives in the 12 months that follow.
One strategy I'd like to introduce is one of 'participation'.
If we choose, we can consciously elect to participate in something...or not participate in something.
The subjects of such contemplation can run from something as simple as gossip (let's opt not to participate in that) to something as lofty as service to our community (we can choose how fully and in what manner to participate in that).
I suppose that the digital equivalent of this process would be to 'swipe left' or 'swipe right' when we're presented with a choice. As I've never been on a dating app, I wouldn't know which direction would indicate that someone would like to 'participate' with someone else, but you get the idea.
Our choices can be spontaneous or considered over a period of time. In either case, they should be definitive and, if possible, permanent. We can choose quite decisively not to participate in hatred, bigotry, consumerism, waste (time/money/environmental), even apathy and complaining.
In making this choice about participating or not participating in something, we don't have to be perfect. If we find ourselves involved with something that we decided we weren't going to participate in, we can self-correct without fear of eternal damnation.
The more ingrained the habit we want to change, the longer it may take and the more effort it may require. So what? We improve. Progress is rarely a linear process. It's just a preferred process.
So as we venture into a new year, a new opportunity to evolve, let's be comfortable saying, "You know, I don't participate in that." Whatever that may be.
Conversely, let's endeavor to commit fully to those few things that we agree to do. Let us actively and fully participate in our passions, professionals, and relationships.
No half measures this year. Either way.
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