Sisyphus and the Impossible Dream
Instead of reading some of my thoughts today, take 12 minutes and watch this video. It’s worth it, I promise. Watch this video and then go out and do something to chase your dream. Don’t ever stop.
(Warning: There are a couple swears in this video)
“You do a lot of of meaningless, purposeless, stupid things. You get obsessed. You spend years focused on them, and literally no one cares but you. But you persevere anyway. You keep running. You don’t quit. You die trying. Because when you add up all those stupid, meaningless obsessions and accomplishments; what they equal, what they add up to, is your life.”
— Casey Neistat, from Sisyphus and the Impossible Dream
Five Facets of Health: Week 38
If you're new to the 5 Facets of Health, learn more here. Avoid trying to implement everything at once! These suggestions are meant to spark ideas. To build healthy habits, focus on one or two aspects over the next week.
Physical Health
Don’t just exercise. Pick a goal. Pick something hard that will challenge you. And then pursue it relentlessly. Not only will it help you get in shape, but it will enrich your life.
“You must expect great things of yourself before you can do them.”
— Michael Jordan
Action: Identify a physical challenge you've always wanted to tackle—whether it's running a marathon, mastering a difficult yoga pose, or completing a long-distance bike ride. Get a coach to accelerate your progress. Follow a training plan that gradually increases in intensity to help you reach this goal, and track your progress along the way.
Mental Health
When your goals and dreams seem far away and out of reach, keep at it. Don’t let yourself get mentally defeated. Break the goal down into manageable parts. Do something small every day and over time, it will add up to the great thing you’re working towards.
"Press on. Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
— Ray Kroc
Action: Create a vision board or a journal dedicated to your goal. Each day, write down or add one thing that moves you closer to this goal, no matter how small. This daily habit will not only keep your objective in focus but also highlight the cumulative impact of small efforts.
Emotional/Social Health
Surround yourself with people who believe in you and who support you in the pursuit of your goals. Be that person for others. We are happier and more successful when we have an abundance mindset and build each other up.
“If you want to live the life of your dreams, then surround yourself with like-minded people who are your champions and cheerleaders -- people who root you on and remind and inspire you to continue to strive for what it is you truly desire.”
— Kelly Kosow
Action: Organize a monthly meet-up (virtual or in-person) with a group of friends or colleagues who share similar goals. Use this time to discuss your progress, challenges, and strategies for overcoming obstacles, fostering a supportive community.
Spiritual Health
Incorporate spirituality into your planning and goal-setting. Seek guidance and inspiration from the Divine, trusting in a greater plan for your life. Reflect on how you can make a unique impact and pursue it passionately.
“God has a plan for you – I can promise you that. Your life is sacred. There is and always has been a path for your soul, and if you follow that path, it will lead you to the inner utopia that your soul longs to experience in this lifetime.”
— Debbie Ford
Action: Begin each day with a short period of spiritual reading or listening to inspirational talks that align with your beliefs. Use a journal to record insights and how they can be applied to your daily life and long-term goals.
Financial Health
Dreaming and planning for your future also means being smart with your finances. Saving and budgeting allow you the freedom to chase your dreams without being held back by financial constraints.
“People who live far below their means enjoy a freedom that people busy upgrading their lifestyles can’t fathom.”
— Naval Ravikant
Action: Set up a monthly budget review meeting with yourself (and a partner if applicable). During this meeting, evaluate your progress towards your savings goal, adjust your spending as needed, and plan for the next steps to take in your financial journey.