Daniel Pink, one of my favorite authors on the value of creative thinking in the changing world of work, posted on his blog the answer to a question: what three quotes are hanging on my wall? And that got me thinking…
On his wall, on little post-it notes are:
“Live as if you were living already for the second time and as if you had acted the first time as wrongly as you are about to act now.” – Viktor Frankl
“Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose.” – Steve Jobs
“Being a professional is doing the things you love to do — even on the days you don’t feel like doing it.” – Julius Erving
As soon as I finished reading his post, I was inspired to look up from my desk to read what was on my wall. What I found was a declaration, my word of the year, and a quote:
Affirmative Declaration: Yes, I have enough. All my needs are met. What do I want?
Word of the Year: Perseverance
Quote: “Order and regularity can be the foundation for the serenity that provides me the freedom to create. Out of simple systematic processes will come the moments of inspiration that are the new programs of my future.” – Nanette Saylor
Honestly, those expressions feel a little bit stale and outdated, reminding me that my focus on motivation and inspiration comes in waves, like the ebb and flow of the tide, and it needs attention regularly.
These visual queues can be very powerful when I use them.
Using them means more than just pinning them up and forgetting about them. Using them means connecting to them visually, beginning and ending the day by reciting the words out loud, and internalizing the feeling that comes over me when I process in this way.
It is that emotional connection that gives these simple expressions so much value.
It’s really not the words that matter. It’s the feeling that comes over me when I read the words.
It’s the meaning I attach to those words. And it’s the action I’m motivated to take as a result.
What matters is that those words anchor my sense of knowing that everything is exactly as it should be today and I am on the right path.
What words are on your wall? Please share them in the comments below so that we can all share in your inspiration. “Like” this post so that others can participate. And, adding a photo would be really fun, too.
Nanette, I loved what you wrote and I immediately knew what was on my wall…..”Miracles Happen to those who believe in them”. That is one of my favorite quotes on every level. But perhaps my favorite post is a plaque I was given for saving a mans life….although it says simply Boston’s Finest…thank you for giving me Life, everyday I am reminded of the making ourselves matter. We never know what will happen or when so therefore….its time to get on and make a difference. Thank you for the reminder….and everyone surround yourself with things that matter to you.
Karen-
I’m so glad that this post reminded you to stop and remember. And thanks for sharing “Miracles Happen to those who believe in them”. That reminds me of the quote, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t–you’re right.” ― Henry Ford. It’s all about believing.
Sending you many blessings —
Nanette