People assume that we should do what we really feel like doing.
Maybe this rule even seems obvious to you.
Accordingly, we ask ourselves if we are “in the mood” to do this or that.
This can be a very good idea, that is, if we like our current mood.
Whatever you feel like doing both fits your mood and maintains that mood.
As a result, if we dislike the mood we are in, but obey it anyway, we are being controlled by what I call “the tyranny of mood.”
Here is a different idea: first ask yourself, “Do I like the mood I’m in?”
If the answer is yes, do what you feel like doing.
It will tend to keep you in that good mood.
If the answer is no, then ask yourself another question: “What would I do next if I were in a better mood?”
In other words, do exactly what you would otherwise do, if you felt better than you do right now.
Acting in that direction, especially if sustained, will take you toward that better mood.
This is because feelings and choices produce each other in both directions.
You can reverse the equation any time you want.
For example, do you feel like smiling, like calling a friend, like taking a walk, like finishing a task, or like lending a hand?
If the answer is “no,” and you are in a down mood, that becomes the best reason to do it.
In this way, you will get a lot more done.
By giving yourself the freedom to either obey or disobey your mood, you will most enjoy your life.
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As an artist/writer, my forward movement to create and market my work, has been pirated by a sad, discouraged, mood once to often. I am , late in life, learning that no matter how i feel, how discouraged I am, how lonely, how irritated, – the list goes on – if I don’t be my own headmistress and disciplin myself, nothing will get created, nothing will get done . And then I will feel REALLY discouraged, lonely and irritated. Just do it , is a good phrase for this kind of thing. Just do it, even if today, the creation is lousy, the website doesn’t get done – just keep on doing it – just do it strengthens my “do it ” muscle; which may be in my butt because it propels me off the couch. .
Thanks RIck. Your writing was direct, simple to understand and spot on.
Thanks, Linda, as always for the encouragement!
Another brilliant gem from Dr. Blum! Thank you!
Thanks, Rebecca, I’m glad it was useful!