If we all did the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves.
– Thomas Alva Edison
What would the world look like if we all “did the things we [were] capable of doing?” That world would be a sight to see.
I love this quote, find it inspiring, but I also argue with it. My mind centers on “what [I’m] capable of doing” and starts to doubt its validity. I have things I’m capable of doing, but is there competency, even excellence in what I’m doing?
This doubt of mine brings about the reality of why this quote is so inspiring because that’s what we do—doubt.
Our doubt activates procrastination. Procrastination activates rationalization and justification for why we shouldn’t do what we think we may be capable of doing.
This quote reveals the action needed to begin—set aside what we think we know about ourselves and begin.
Maybe it’s helping animals or people or the environment or the local senior living center. Perhaps it’s woodcarving, Japanese stitching, or gardening. Or it’s running, mountain biking, cooking, knitting, motorcycle riding, writing a book, collecting records, pickleball, and so on.
The list doesn’t stop. Even if we can’t do what we love full-time because we need to pay the bills, we can nourish our love on the side.
Create groups to get with other like-minded folks. Incorporate the activity into everyday living.
When we acknowledge and do what polishes our hearts and softens their edges, we not only love ourselves, but we have more love for others.
We begin to astound. We begin to change. The risk in doing is minimized with the joy of showing up and not denying our truth any longer.
What are you capable of doing? Are you astounding yourself by doing it? If not, get on with it because we don’t know when our time is up. Why wait?
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Image source: Pixabay
Weathered Well 