Stillness in the Mind

Stillness begins within the space between your ears. Holiday says that if we don’t have the ability to stop thinking and think deeply enough, we won’t be able to achieve the stillness Holiday describes. He offers seven methods to achieve mental stillness.

1. You must be fully present

Our daily thoughts often revolve around what was and will be. We think about the past, plan for the future, and how we dealt with a particular problem or task. Every day, take the time to focus on this moment. It doesn’t matter what else.

2. Clear your mind of all preconceptions

Our daily thoughts often revolve around what was and will be. We think about the past, plan for the fuHumans have a survival instinct to look back at past experiences and use that knowledge to predict the future. We like to predict how things will turn out. However, we can’t accept the moment as it is because we are constantly trying to predict what will happen.

3. Take your time

Stillness isn’t something you’ll learn in a 30-day challenge. Be patient and keep practicing patience. Show compassion if you are struggling the first few days. Real, lasting change is only possible over time.

4. Refrain from talking and just sit down

This is particularly important in times of stress or big change. Are you thinking about a career change? You might want to take some time and think about your options. What does this change make? Which possible outcomes are most frightening to you? What ones are exciting?

5. Reject distraction

Stillness is not possible on the couch while Netflix is playing, at least not at the beginning. It takes time to develop the ability to remain still within yourself, even when external distractions are present.

6. Consider the advice of others against your convictions

Let’s go back to the career example. Most likely, you’ve reached out to family members, friends and peers for advice in making your career decision. While it is possible to get some good advice, many of those opinions are likely to be conflicting. They represent the views of someone who has had a different experience than you. Give your intuition a chance to guide you by giving your brain time to fully analyze the decision.

7. Be deliberate without becoming paralyzed

Attention overthinkers: Do not confuse thoughtful reflection and analysis for action. It is necessary to make a decision. Even avoiding one is a decision. Set an expiration date if you feel paralyzed.

Stillness of Spirit
A still spirit, not to be confused with any religious ideas, is one that is connected to the brain, body, and world. It is a patient and honest look at our past and how we can change it.

8. Have a strong moral compass

While our pasts can shape us, they don’t define who we are. Spend some time examining your past and deciding if they are consistent with the values you desire. Someone who has a history of passive-aggressive communication might struggle to recognize them as dangerous. To break bad habits and create new ones, take the time to learn about healthy, direct communication.

9. Avoid envy, jealousy, and other harmful desires

These feelings are not only useless but can also cause us to lose our ability to focus on important things. Focusing on the lives of others can cause you to lose sight of your own.

10. Accept the pain of your childhood

These feelings are not only useless but can also cause us to lose our ability to focus on important things. Everyone has baggage. It is human nature. It’s human nature to be a victim. It’s hard to believe that I was dealt a bad deal.” But you have the power and ability to heal from these wounds. It may take you years to work with professionals, but it is possible to do it on your own.

11. Appreciate the world and practice gratitude

There is always something to be thankful for, no matter what your life circumstances. Get up, get out of bed and write down your gratitude list. Be specific. Consider small things, such as hot coffee or the warmth of your pet’s hair snuggled up against you in bed.

12. Develop relationships

While you likely have many friends and frequent social events, when was the last time that you tried to build those connections? Instead of going to bars, go-to coffee. Join a book club. Ask deeper questions such as “How’s your job?” and “What’s the latest with you?”

13. Trust in something bigger than you to give belief and control

It doesn’t necessarily have to be religious, but it can. This is about letting go of control over things you don’t control. It is impossible to control whether your spouse ends your marriage or loses your job. You don’t need to control your life or your spouse’s decisions.

14. Know that there is never enough and that unchecked pursuits of more will only lead to bankruptcy

We live in a culture of “more.” Social media and the comparison factor amplifies this feeling. If you feel the urge to buy a “thing” to fill that hole, remember that happiness and contentment come from within. Give yourself a week before you buy that item and then decide if it is something you really need.

Stillness in the Body
Overwork and stress can cause havoc in our bodies. Chronic stress can lead to problems in the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and even our nervous systems. By finding physical stillness, we allow ourselves to just be. Start with the following.

15. Overcome your physical limitations

Yoga might not be for you if you have never been flexible. Challenge yourself. Find positions that increase flexibility. To strengthen your muscles, work with a yogi. Every day, practice. Enjoy the feeling of failure at something new.

16. Find hobbies that allow you to relax and recharge

It is not something you could eventually make into an Etsy shop or display on your social media profiles. This hobby is solely for you. It doesn’t have to involve the internet.

17. Develop a reliable disciplined routine

Some of the most successful people in the world cite a daily routine as one of the biggest contributors to their success. It’s not necessary to design it according to what is successful for others. You should take the time to consider and create a plan that fits the environment and times in which you are at your best.

18. Get outside and be active

Every day, move your body. Move outside. It’s free and easy. You can disconnect from the chaos to reconnect with the bigger world.

19. Find solitude and perspective

Even 20 minutes of daily solitude allows you to reset and refocus. Your brain can become clogged up from a morning of meetings. Solitude allows you to take the time and space you need to process your thoughts and prioritize what is most important.

20. Learn to sit down and do nothing when asked

Although stillness doesn’t necessarily refer to being physically still, the act of not doing something can have many benefits. It is a physical reminder for your brain and spirit that you can breathe deeply and be still. We have learned to move, do, and multitask. It takes five minutes per day. After a week, you’ll feel the difference.

21. Get enough sleep, and control your workaholism

Although stillness doesn’t necessarily refer to being physically still, the act of not doing While there is no set amount of time that works for everyone, it is a good rule to aim for seven hours each night. This should be your number one priority. You can’t be rested and face the challenges of personal growth if you don’t.

22. Reminders

Reminders that we’re not the center of the universe are important to us all. It can take many forms. Volunteer once per month to get your body moving and interact with others.