before we dig into this juicy standards post, I wanna share things I could use your support with:
Journal Club: This ones all about AUTHENTICITY. We're meeting virtually on April 12 at 12pm pst to dive into a guided meditation i've been working on for weeks for you <3, some wonderful journaling + tunes, and some sweet conversations + breathwork.
okay now let's get into it .. happy Sunday!
If you've seen my IG post, you know we're diving into STANDARDS. So let's dive into this whole thing a bit deeper because it's been on my mind like nobody's business. You ever notice how we're all walking around with these invisible rulers, measuring up everything against our own personal yardsticks? Yeah, that's what I'm talking about.
We've got these standards, and they're kind of like our inner GPS, guiding us through life's twists and turns. But here's the kicker – sometimes we forget just how high our own standards are. It's like we're busy giving out advice or patting ourselves on the back for a job well done, but we don't stop to appreciate the fact that we're setting the bar pretty beautifully high for ourselves.
Now, picture this: we're scrolling through social media, and we stumble upon these folks who seem to have it all together, right? Their lives look like something straight out of a glossy magazine. And suddenly, we're comparing our own standards to theirs, thinking maybe we should be more like them. PERO ESPERATE .. (but wait!)
I had this epiphany recently. I realized that my standards aren't just arbitrary rules I follow because society says so. Nah, they're a reflection of what I truly value deep down in my core. They're my personal manifesto, guiding me towards what really matters to me. And let me tell you, trying to mold myself to fit someone else's standards? Oh no, not I, said the rabbit.
I'm embracing my own standards now more than ever, seeing them as my North Star in this crazy journey called life. They're not just guidelines; they're a part of who I am. And I've made a pact with myself – no more abandoning my standards just to fit in with someone else's vision of who I should be.
So with all of this, as always, I've been thinking about ways to really integrate this whole standards thing into my daily life. My weekly menu has some of the things I've been making sure I'm consistent with, but first:
marr's neuroscience corner:
You know I love me some neuroscience nuggets damn near more than McDonalds' ones because these explain why our brains are wired the way they are when it comes to setting and maintaining standards. Understanding the science behind it all helps me appreciate the complexity of human behavior and motivates me to stay true to my own standards. So here's a bit about our brain + standards: our brains, especially the prefrontal cortex, are like decision-making CEOs, guiding our standards based on our values. Yet, we're also influenced by social standards. It's a balancing act to stay true to ourselves in even in the face of external pressures!
weekly menu for aligning w your standards:
Monday - reflective journaling: Spend 10 minutes journaling about how my actions aligned with my personal standards throughout the day. Reflecting on specific situations helps me gain clarity and insight into areas where I can further uphold my values.
Tuesday - a mindful minute: Incorporate mindfulness practices into my daily routine, starting with a morning meditation session to set the tone for the day. Throughout the day, I'll take mindful breaks to pause, breathe, and reconnect with my inner compass.
Wednesday - set them boundaries: Identify areas in my life where my standards might be compromised, and practice setting firm yet compassionate boundaries. Whether it's saying no to excessive work demands or prioritizing self-care, I'll honor my needs without guilt or hesitation.
Thursday - gratitude triple times: Take time each day to express gratitude for the people, experiences, and opportunities in my life that align with my standards. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, I reinforce the positive aspects of living authentically and in alignment with my values.
Friday - connecting with community: Seek out opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar values and standards. Whether it's attending a virtual meetup, joining an interest-based group, or reaching out to a supportive friend, I'll nurture relationships that uplift and inspire me.
Saturday - creative expression: Engage in creative activities that allow me to express myself authentically and explore my values through art, writing, or music. Creativity provides an outlet for self-expression and helps me deepen my understanding of what truly matters to me.
Sunday - caring for self on sundays: Devote the day to nurturing my physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being through acts of self-care and relaxation. Whether it's indulging in a bubble bath, going for a nature walk, or simply enjoying a good book, I'll prioritize activities that replenish my soul and recharge my batteries.
Please adjust these to fit your life, needs, and own standards. Just make sure you're honoring and staying true to you!