Difficult and meaningful, at the same time
What's meaningful isn't always easy.
In fact, it's often quite difficult. Meaning is more often associated with doing things that stretch you beyond your current capacity. This rewards you in other ways: through the contributions you make, the impact you have, and the growth you experience.
If you're pursuing something meaningful, and it's feeling difficult right now, here are three reminders to consider.
If you're having a hard time starting: It is completely normal to struggle with starting something meaningful. These pursuits are often the most important things in our lives, making the stakes feel so high. What if we mess up or can't do it? It can be easier not to start at all. Try this: commit to spending just ten minutes today on your meaningful pursuit.
If you're having a hard time keeping going: You might need to take a break. Hard things are marathons, not sprints. What is one thing you can do to care for yourself today? You also might need to reconnect with a greater purpose. Who is benefitting from your efforts? Bring them to mind, and imagine their gratitude for your work.
If you're having a hard time finishing: You just want it all to be over. Again, what a normal feeling! To help you sustain the last bit of motivation you need, think about how far you have come. Imagine that your prior self could see where you are today, and what they would say to you. You're so close — don't stop now.
