I am a recovering ruminator. I would reflect on how I did something or performed, but in a judgmental way that was razor sharp and not productive. I would hold on to my slightest infractions, blinding any ability to see what went well. I would find myself thinking about that infraction long after it occurred, making it bigger than it was and more harmful. It was punishment. I had to put an end to that harmful thinking, and the car became the place for a turnaround. It became the place where I could take a breath, taking in the whole experience accurately and not focusing on just one painful element. The intention became to learn, not lament.
The Process – Harvesting:
After the delivery of a workshop, facilitation of a mastermind group, or some other piece of work, I would allow myself to put the key in the ignition but not turn the car on until I went through the following questions:
· What was fabulous?
· What was a sh*t show?
· What was funny – usually the sh*t show?
· What am I taking with me?
· What am I leaving behind?
I have been doing this for years, and the harvest takes place in cars, planes, bathrooms, meeting rooms, or any place where I can breathe. The benefits are incredible, building resilience and allowing you to get up off the mat and try again, imperfect and braver. Try it and let me know what you think.
