
A neighbor gave me this one below and, as you can see above, written on top of the box was “missing 1 piece”.
As I made the puzzle, I thought it was really interesting that every time I couldn’t find a piece (after really really searching for it), I decided that it must be the piece they're referring to that's missing. Eventually, though, I found the piece. Ugh.
It reminded me of what typically happens when we create new habits. We're all in but, when it seems a little hard or the conditions don't seem right, we might give ourselves an out... aka "Just this one time". It's our missing piece.
Unless we commit 100% of the time, every day can act as the missing day. Living in the 99% can be burdensome because it creates a need for constant decision-making about something we've already decided. As Jack Canfield says, 99% is a bitch; 100% is easy. There’s nothing to decide when you’re committed 100%.
So, as you approach the inward time of winter, take a step back to see what healthy habit would be beneficial for you to install 100%? How might you mix up your exercise routine, get more sleep, or commit to one part of a healthy food plan? It's the perfect time to re-assess our self-care routines, especially as we're still in the continuation of this pandemic.
And by the way, whatever you commit to doesn’t need to be hard or huge. It's actually best if it isn't. In my Habits Made Easy program, I highly recommend that you make your new habit silly small - so small it's impossible to not be done every day. For example, commit to having one more glass of water, go to bed 10 minutes earlier, walk around the block as a mid afternoon break, end the day with a gratitude reflection. Simple and small.
Regardless, it’s your choice. It’s always your choice. My recommendation is to make it 100%, otherwise the question “Is today the day?” will loom over you and you'll never have your puzzle being complete.
100%: This is when change really happens.
Sending you lots of Peace and Love
Shanti