Self-Stewardship

I've been keeping a low profile as I figure out how to navigate these stormy seas. I've been metaphorically dancing with an old term “self stewardship” as it keeps coming up in what I'm reading and listening to and it has become an anchoring point for me.

From what I understand self- stewardship means “the practice of taking ownership and responsibility for one's own well-being and personal growth encompassing self-awareness, self-care and responsible management of one's resources.”

I can't imagine I'm the only one who is looking for a way to grow and manage my resources at the same time. Keeping that definition in mind I've come up with three actions that foster self-stewardship for me and are keeping my life simple.

GET CREATIVE. Through my research I've learned that when we are engaged in a creative activity it quiets the anxious brain. Whether you choose gardening, making art, writing an article or what I recently did create a gym in my garage. I noticed I was so engaged in the organization of my equipment the anxiety was gone. Working out has become a resource.

HEAL YOUR OWN INNER DIVIDES. It's not just what is coming at us from the outside but its also our inner turmoil. That means be aware of fears, judgments, vulnerabilities, suffering and anger as you hear, see, think about and read what is going on in our world today. It seems right now most people are experiencing complex suffering and trauma. We are dealing with more layers than ever before because on top of the state of our country and world we still have the same daily challenges.

Once we can courageously own and take responsibility for what we are doing or not doing and how that impacts our well-being we have the opportunity to tenderly and compassionately create an inner safe space to begin to change or redefine a perspective or attitude so healing can start. Using a journal as a resource to document discoveries can provide a helpful road map.

BE MINDFUL of not contributing to fear based conversations and social energy that is seeping into mind/body/spirit. I've noticed the necessity to get very clear about my limitations around exposure to the news and conversations about the news even though that may disappoint someone.

Resources such as centering, grounding, prayer and meditation or simply being quiet and breathing can contribute to one's well-being. In addition, remember to tell people you love them, look for grace moments, spread joy and kindness wherever you go.

Each of us matters. Each of us is supposed to be here at this very time. Each of us have been given unique gifts to share.