"There is no problem with this world. The only problem is with the way I look at it."
I don't know who said that, but I love it. If you do, please tell me. It's become one of my favorite mantras in recent months.
PGA Tour Player Jeff Quinney |
It's entirely consistent with every bit of human peak performance that I've ever witnessed or experienced. When athletes, artists or musicians describe their best ever performances, they consistently use descriptors like effortless yet infinitely focused, peaceful yet totally determined. Like there's no problem. And when something doesn't go the way they planned, it's still not a problem. They simply move on without a hitch and continue to operate from a place of serene knowing.
The statement, or judgment, "this is a problem," can never be true. The only thing that can be true in that moment is that there is an event that is neither good nor bad, and that you're opinion of it is that it's a problem. It, in itself, is not problematic. Until you see it that way.
And since we are at our absolute best in life when we aren't viewing the world as problematic, but rather with inner calm, competence and determined focus, then there seems to be no legitimate or valuable reason to continue to practice looking at events as problems.
With practice, we can reprogram ourselves to view the world more consistently from a place of awe and inspiration, gratitude and enthusiasm, competence and certainty. And when the unexpected happens (because it always does in this uncertain universe), then we can simply continue to do so. And enjoy our mastery. And model that mastery for those around us.
