Take a moment to reflect on the decisions you have made in the past, or those you are currently facing. How do these decisions influence others? Our personal power lies in the choices we make, and it is important to understand the impact they can have on those around us.
Think about the various people in your life who have influenced your decisions. It could be your friends, siblings, or parents. Consider the kinds of decisions they have affected. Sometimes, we may not even realize the extent to which others shape our choices.
Start with the simple decisions you make for yourself each day. From deciding what to wear and what to eat, to the time you leave for school, these choices may seem insignificant, but they set the tone for the rest of your day. Reflect on the hobbies you pursue, the books you read, and the friends you make. Are these decisions influenced by external factors?
Consider the influence of what you read or hear. Music, for example, often carries messages that can impact our thoughts and actions. Are you influenced by your peers, fashion trends, or societal expectations? Take a moment to imagine a world where no one or nothing influenced you. What would you do? How would you spend your time? What would you wear?
Now, ask yourself who your most independent, original, and free self is. This is the part of you that is not swayed by external influences. How can you allow this “original self” to be more influential in your daily life? Are there situations where you feel it is not possible? Explore ways to be true to yourself even in challenging circumstances.
Take a deep breath and refocus on your feet. Remember that you are sitting on a log in a peaceful forest. Stand up in your mind and walk back into the forest. Feel the cool forest floor beneath your bare feet, the touch of leaves on your toes and heels. Slowly bring your awareness back to the present moment, feeling your feet on the ground, firmly rooted.
As you bring your attention back to the room, become aware of the chair supporting your body. Listen to the sounds around you. Wiggle your toes and fingers, rub your palms together, and move your shoulders. Take a deep breath and when you are ready, slowly open your eyes, first looking down and then up until you are looking straight ahead.
Take your time to adjust and give yourself a good stretch in silence, allowing others the space to do the same. Remember the power of your decisions and how they can influence not only yourself but also those around you. Embrace your most authentic self and let it guide your choices.