Stuck Between Unhappy and Flourishing
“The force that through the green fuse drives the flower” — Dylan Thomas
There are three states of being that we might find ourselves in: Unhappy, Not Unhappy, and Flourishing. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
We all know when we’re unhappy. That doesn’t require a lot of explanation.
Not unhappy is that state where everything is OK, but we still have the feeling that we could be more. The pain of unhappiness is gone, but we still feel incomplete. I would suggest that most people fall into that state.
Flourishing refers to a state of optimal growth, well-being, and fulfillment in various aspects of life. It encompasses a sense of purpose, positive emotions, strong social connections, and a deep engagement with meaningful activities. When an individual or a community is flourishing, they experience a profound sense of satisfaction and contentment, while also exhibiting resilience in the face of challenges.
Flourishing extends beyond mere happiness or material success; it encompasses a holistic and sustainable state of thriving, where individuals can reach their full potential and contribute positively to their own lives and the world around them.
Are you stuck between unhappy and flourishing? Do you hear Peggy Lee singing, “Is that all there is” in your mind?
I always wanted the manifestations of flourishing long before I knew the word. I thought it was “out there” and being denied to me for reasons I didn’t understand. I read all the self-help books, listened to the success gurus, and basked in the momentary good feeling of Facebook inspirational posters. But, it was all fleeting. To paraphrase Jon Kabat-Zinn, wherever I went, there I was. I was asking the wrong questions. Instead of asking, “What do I want to do?” I needed to ask, “How do I want to be?” Doing would flow naturally from being.
It’s taken me a long time to learn that it’s “in here.” If I want my “flower” to bloom, I have to deal with what’s flowing through my “green fuse.”
The only way I’ve found to get into the mystery of that green fuse is through meditation. When we’re lost, we tend to turn the radio off as we’re navigating through the twists and turns that lead to our destination. Meditation turns off the noise in our minds as we try to find our way in life.
Meditation is more than a relaxation technique. It’s a way to find the answers to four questions that have always been with us: Who am I? Why am I here? What’s most important to me? What’s non-negotiable in my life?
Start out by sitting still for 1-2 minutes while focusing on your breath. It’s that simple. You can get a lot done by doing nothing.