When we are faced with big-time or life-altering decisions, we tend to become anxious, frazzled, or paralyzed in thought. As our mind searches for the best possible solution by rapidly processing all pertinent information, we might become unbalanced or uneasy. This recently happened to me. I have had an enlarged lymph node on the left side of my neck for the past few months and the Doctor recently recommended we remove the node in order make an accurate diagnosis. As the Doctor explained the risks of the procedure to me, my mind instantaneously ran wild. As my brain obsessively assessed the pros and cons of the procedure, I found myself getting worked up, anxious, and stressed out over the entire situation. I consulted with friends and family, but the more advice I got, the more flustered I became. I felt frozen and unable to make an intelligent decision.
We often feel desperate to find answers to our questions. We make lists, weigh options, and analyze pros and cons. We spend hours pondering what to do, only to end up confused, indecisive and irresolute. While thinking things through is important, sometimes the best answers arise by creating space for silence. When we quiet the mind, we open up to clarity and truth, uncluttered by thoughts or judgments. I have found meditation to be one of the most effective ways of accessing this silence. However, there are many others. We might find quiet on a run, in the gym, or on a yoga mat. Perhaps our mind slows down as we excitedly cook our favorite dish for dinner. So the next time you are searching for answers, identify ways to linger in the space between thoughts. Spend some time in meditation, but try finding other ways to create silence. Open up a great book, listen to an Audible, or go for a hike in nature. Allow your mind to rest, and you just might gain some unexpected wisdom.
Consider this undeniably profound quote spoken by Albert Einstein: “I think 99 times and find nothing – I stop thinking – swim in silence – and the truth comes to me.”
Have an AMAZING weekend!
