The Reward Is In The Writing

As my newsletter Mindful Motivation enters its fifth year, I have been reflecting on its origin and its meaning for both myself and those of you who read it, of which I thought I would share here with you. Mindful Motivation was born out of the dark womb of depression. While I thought that all potential seeds of life had died during that time, there was at least one seed that hadn't been snuffed out. I revisit the many lonely, sleepless, 2 AM mornings where I would sit despairingly in my office looking at the picture (above). On one of these occasions, as I was sitting quietly, the following words came to me: "write your way forward." And thus, Mindful Motivation exited the womb and came to life. That was four years ago and for me, writing this piece regularly has been one of the most rewarding and therapeutic tasks I have engaged in and has, in fact, moved me forward in ways I could never have imagined. As I've been reflecting on it this week I would suggest that it is critical for there to be elements of our work that are personally rewarding, where we find inspiration and fulfilment. These rewards also help fuel us for the more difficult parts of life and business, keeping us going in the tougher times. The other reflection is that in periods of lostness and darkness, light can issue forth and "foundness" and newness can both germinate and spring to life in the subsequent season. I want to express my deep gratitude to all of you for being part of my broader community: for the work we've done together; for your attendance at my speaking gigs; your responses, sharing of and publishing of my writing; for your promotion of my work; for the drinks we've imbibed and the bread we have broken. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Years and I trust you will take some time to fill in the following to help guide your efforts and fulfilment in 2020: "I find my reward in the ................" All the best, Ray