Thinking About Living vs. Feeling Alive
HAPPINESS
The voice narrating our every thought is in full effect
INSPIRATION
The voice narrating our every thought has no role
Inspiration quiets the voice. The voice is the chatter we hear that narrates every aspect of our day and conversationally shares the analysis about how we feel at any given moment—and it’s completely unnecessary. We create it for one reason or another, but our true self knows what we feel and what we want without internally talking through it or about it.
Sometimes the voice is negative and judgmental about others or ourselves. Sometimes the voice sounds rational, but is really only a medium for doubting difficult actions that our true selves know are needed.
The voice is powerful and can shape the experience of our daily lives. It just keeps chattering away. But, when we are in an inspired moment, the voice isn’t there. When we are truly present and captured by a gorgeous view, a perfect sip of coffee, shining the hood of our ‘57 Chevy, scoring the winning goal, or painting a compelling work of art, the voice doesn’t have to narrate the meaning of that moment because we are present and acting in accordance with our true selves. Because we are so directly and deeply connected to our true selves, there is no translation time between what we know and what we think.
Meditation is built on “quieting” and removing the voice. If you have practiced meditation, you know that quieting the voice can be quite challenging, but it’s entirely possible.
Happiness Example: Okay, I’m happy! This feels great. Oh no, I can’t believe that just happened! Now I don’t feel happy. How am I going to get that back? I could try this or that. I should do that. If I do, I’ll surely get that back. But what if this happens? I should think about that.
Inspired Example: … (I’m so inspired and present right now that I don’t have to talk myself through what I’m think-ing or feeling)
This is part a 19 part series about the fundamental differences between the happiness we've come to know, expect and accept and inspiration. Understanding these differences allows us to better choose inspiration as a tool to experience the true happiness we all desire and deserve.
Want more inspiration? Happiness is Overrated - Live the Inspired Life is your friend along your journey to living your happiest life through inspiration!