Maintain Patience, Effort and Consistency in Achieving Your Goals

When impatience comes up for me, I always wonder how deep this patience well can go. It's never ending. The practice of patience is never ending. There is always a test that comes up each and every week or even every day for some of us. Whether the test takes place at our work, in our relationships, our daily interactions with the world, with our family, and the list could go on.

One of my favourite scenarios where patience gets tested is when we land at the airport and have to wait for our bags at the baggage carousel. We all hope to see our bag come out first so that we can move on out to the arrival hall but instead on this day, we wait and wait and wait. As if we can rush time. And I feel airports and everything that goes with flying tests one's patience. To learn to be at ease during this time is a powerful lesson to own. Moreso, if you're a real impatient person. If you are, get curious about that.

P.S. I thoroughly enjoy flying and all things travel related. And the difficulties that sometimes accompany the act.

When we think about the things we want to achieve or the goals we we set for ourselves that we would like to hit, we tend to underestimate how long it will actually take to fulfil these goals in their entirety. Thus the feeling of giving up strikes sooner than we necessarily would like.

Questions like: Why is it taking so long? Am I doing the correct things to move me closer to hitting my goal? Is there be a quicker way? Should I find a teacher or mentor of sorts to help me gauge where I am on this journey? Am I being as consistent as I think I am?

And these are great questions to ask and reflect upon. We're capable of lying to ourselves even if they're tiny white lies and we convince ourselves that we are actually putting in the work. How do we know? Are we recording or tracking our progress some how and by some means? This will allow us to look back at our days and see the data/concrete information that indeed we have been doing the work and what exactly we have been up to. And if think it's a bit OCD to track everything, know that everything doesn't have to be tracked/recorded. Only that which pertains to your goal. Of course if interested in recording other things, you're free to do so e.g. tracking calories if your goal is to lose weight or gain weight is one example yet there are many others too.

The thing about setting goals is that as we announce it out loud to ourselves and or others we actually get a hit of satisfaction in advance. It feels good to just set the goal itself and proclaim that we will work towards doing it. The downside to this is that for many it feels so good already that taking action and taking the steps towards that goal becomes a secondary kind of thing. Meaning, the most challenging part is not setting the goal although it may seem so when one actually sits down to formulate them, but instead, beginning from where one is and going for it by putting in the effort.

If there's one thing I learnt 10 years ago when I first stumbled upon some incredible/gem-like information was that one has to

Realize that results are not in your hands, the effort you put in is.

I'd have this written on my skateboard, on the grip tape itself (in a silver marker), so that I'd see it every time I went out for a session. It'd be my reminder or anchor throughout my days as I went about moving in the direction I wanted back then. The reason why it was so powerful to learn this way back then is that we cannot control the results, but what we can control is the amount of effort that goes into the endeavor/journey. The effort is up to US. And it's very freeing to know this. Raw and real. When things aren't going as planned, looking back at ones effort it can show us the facts.

This is also a reminder that those that we feel that become successful overnight really do not. Instead, it has been effort compounded over a long period of time and longer than we can imagine to reach the so-called peak or develop the skills required to bring about the "success". There is no overnight success. We post up all the goodness on social media but not everyone is willing to share the behind-the-scenes efforts that got them to where they are today. It just isn't sexy. However, when a person does share this in whatever way they do, it connects to us on a deeper level, a more human level. We feel like it's possible for us too. We get inspired and motivated to get out there and put the effort in. Be it the RIGHT EFFORT.

So after scribbling this down, the point here is to make a solid effort at the thing you are going after. To understand that it'll always take way longer than you expect. To do a little bit every single day is far superior than doing something once a week (we lose momentum). 20-30 minutes a day goes a long way and compounds over time. Effort adds up and where you could be a year from now is unimaginable. Begin to notice when your patience gets tested and get curious about it. Investigate the uneasiness.

"Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin; beginning makes the conditions perfect" – Alan Cohen

It is never, never, never too late to begin!

If you've made it this far, thank you for reading and maybe this resonates with YOU.

Comment below and or share this with someone who could use a bit of insight.

A green view from Victoria Peak, Hong Kong

Embracing the Quiet: Why I Make Time for Silence Every Day

In a world overflowing with noise, the luxury of silence often seems out of reach. However, I have learned that setting aside moments for quiet reflection is one of my most valuable daily practices. It's not just about avoiding noise; it's about using those serene moments to reconnect with myself, ease stress, and stimulate creativity. Let’s explore the transformative power of silence and discover practical ways to integrate it into our busy lives for better well-being.

The Impact of Noise on Our Lives

Our daily lives are inundated with sound. From the ceaseless chatter of coworkers to the relentless ding of phone notifications, we often feel overwhelmed by constant distractions. Research indicates that around 30% of people report feeling stressed due to noise in their environment. This chronic exposure can lead to difficulties in focusing and increased anxiety.

By purposefully including silence in my daily routine, I have found relief from this stress. Even brief periods of quiet can significantly lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, helping to create a more peaceful mindset.

Experiencing tranquility amidst nature can offer the ultimate silence.

Finding Silence in a Busy World

Incorporating moments of silence into my day does not require elaborate plans or special rituals. Here are practical ways I carve out time for quiet:

1. Morning Meditation: I dedicate 10-15 minutes each morning to sit quietly and focus on my breath. This simple practice helps center me and sets a calm tone for my day.

   
   

2. Mindful Walks: During lunch breaks, I take walks outside without headphones. Paying attention to nature, observing the chirping birds or feeling the breeze on my skin, allows me to enjoy soothing silence.

   
   

3. Tech-Free Zones: I designate specific times, such as during meals, as tech-free. In those moments, I relish simply being present without the distraction of screens or notifications.

   
   

These intentional acts of quiet help me recharge, allowing for a more focused and energized return to my tasks.

The Benefits of Embracing Silence

Integrating silence into our routine goes beyond momentary peace; it offers significant benefits to our well-being. Here are three compelling reasons why silence should be a part of your day:

Improved Focus and Creativity

Silence provides a sanctuary for thoughts to settle. During quiet moments, I often find that creative ideas emerge more effortlessly. A study from the University of California found that environments with less distraction can increase creativity by up to 50%. This clear mental space allows me to connect ideas and visualize goals effectively.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Silence serves as a retreat from the chaos of everyday life. When the world becomes overwhelming, stepping into silence can ground us. Personally, I have experienced lower blood pressure during and after silent moments. Even just five minutes of silence can create a mental shift, allowing for a more relaxed perspective.

Enhanced Self-Reflection

In our fast-paced lives, self-reflection often takes a back seat. Silence is the perfect opportunity to reflect on personal goals and growth. During quiet moments, I consider my feelings and choices, which helps me better understand myself. This practice of introspection is vital; research suggests that self-reflection can improve decision-making skills by over 30%.

Implementing Silence into Your Day

If you are curious about how to incorporate silence into your life, consider these practical tips:

• Start Small: Begin with just five minutes of silence and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable. You may find that this small change quickly becomes a cherished part of your routine.

  
  

• Choose Your Space: Identify a comfortable location where you can enjoy quiet without interruptions, like a cozy nook in your home or a peaceful spot in nature.

  
  

• Engage in Gentle Activities: Consider incorporating quiet activities, such as yoga, journaling, or reading, which naturally lend themselves to moments of reflection.

  
  

Final Thoughts

The benefits of silence are profound. As I have made it a priority in my daily life, I have noticed positive changes in my mindset and overall well-being. Silence isn't about retreating from the world; it is about creating space for ourselves to breathe, reflect, and grow.

In our loud world, embracing moments of stillness has transformed my life for the better. I invite you to experiment with silence, even in small doses. Discover the tranquility that can come from simply pausing and being. Whether through meditation, a tech-free walk, or quiet contemplation, you may find the clarity and peace that reside within the silent moments.

A serene sunset symbolizes the calm that silence can bring into our lives.

By dedicating time to silence, you might uncover the strength and insight that emerge from stillness. Embrace the quiet and feel the difference it can make in your life.

The Surprising Benefits of Waking Up Early: How It Can Transform Your Life

Work hard.

Play hard.

A saying that you will undoubtedly hear when living in Hong Kong.

"The city that never sleeps."

One soon finds out that this is the case and that you're pretty much working most the time, just like everyone else in the world. Although, Hong Kong is known for having one of the longest work weeks and this "on-the-go-all-the-time" mentality can quite rightly lead to a one feeling that "You don't have enough Time. "

On the flip side, "You don't have enough Energy." Having been working and living in Hong Kong for over nine years, I've become more and more interested in managing ones time and energy. "The hustle of trying to FIT everything in week IN and week OUT."

I have been a night owl for as far back as I can remember and came to the conclusion that it was the late nights that were most productive for me. Where I could go "offline" and be creative and productive.

Now to mention the fact that at 8:00pm in the evening, one simply doesn't have the same energy level as one would normally have in the morning.

Which means we're running on less fuel.

Willpower, discipline and motivation are affected and I feel it takes more energy to summon them when you are already running low. However strengthening your willpower and discipline will make it easier and allow you greater 'access'. As I've continuously adjusted and tweaked my schedule and routines and rituals, I've now been inspired to try something new. Experiment a bit more. Change IT up. Many people are doing it. Many people also attest to the fact that it has changed their lives.

What is IT? WAKE UP EARLY.  EVERYDAY. Is it easy? No! Does it pay off?  Yes! Within a few days! The maths makes it crystal clear. The sheer joy of having a few more hours in your day should be treasured. For sure, we get that and so we go on. Somehow it doesn't register and perhaps we try and try but it comes right back to finding the energy to live life to its fullest each and everyday. This too can become tiring.

"What a tragedy to waste a day in this life."

How is one to wake up early and thus make full use of that most beautiful time of the day?

The answer is to figure out what you are most passionate about in life.

That passion, that love, will give you the energy to spring out of bed at the break of dawn so you can give yourself to that which you love most. Think about what you really enjoy doing and plan to do that early in the morning. It might obviously be on your days off and or weekends. Or you make the time before heading off to work - it doesn't have to be a lot of time.

One problem that comes up of course is that many people do not know what their true passion is and so are not living an inspired life.  The following are questions to ask yourself to help you figure out what you love to do.  Here are those 6 questions:

1. What is it that you like to do for its own sake, without any concern for reward or compliment? Do you like the joy of building things? Do you like to just create music? Do you like to teach? Do you like the challenge of watching your thoughts in action?

2. If you won the lottery, I mean the really, really big one how would you like to spend the rest of your life?

3. If you were informed you are about to die shortly, what would you regret most as not having spent your time doing?

4. No matter where on Earth you are. In a rich, first world country, in the bush lands of Australia or high up in a Himalayan village what do you see yourself doing regardless of location?

5. What activity do you always find yourself coming back to throughout your life? What activity can you just not see yourself doing without?

   
   

There is another problem that sometimes comes up with regard to becoming an early riser and that has to do with health and energy.  Having good physical, emotional and mental health will go a long way in helping you, not only sleep better, but also in providing the necessary energy to kick-start the day bright and early.  If you find yourself lacking energy and feeling depleted there is no better cure for that than exercise, yoga, and or morning walks. (see post on on the value of walking https://www.marcelerasmus.net/post/the-value-of-long-walks)

It is said that one of the things that we human beings waste our lives doing is sleeping (too much).  So let that not be the case for you.  Search inwards, experiment, figure out what you love to do in life and then muster up the courage to go after it. 

There is a story of a Yogi high up in the Himalayan mountains and what he does early every morning is get up, stand and applaud.  He is applauding creation for the wonder of a new dawn, for the beauty of the sunrise and for the opportunity each new day provides.  Let us join him bright and early tomorrow morning.

I'm intrigued by how different people structure their day or if there is any structure at all. I especially enjoy learning about others' routines and rituals. Now I'd like to hear from YOU. What does your morning ritual/routine look like? Comment below and let's discuss this topic and how we can further tweak and adjust it for an optimal start to the day.