I Can Change My Mind

In chapter two of the book, "You Are Your Choices," Alexandra Stoddard shares her thoughts about making choices. I love how she shares the perspective that "there is no absolute certain choice."

This way of looking at choice-making has really helped me let go of the need to get things perfect all the time. I used to think I had to get every choice "right" every single time I made one, but all that did was make me feel anxious and worried all the time.

It feels much more gentle and compassionate to allow myself to make the best choices I can at the time, using the information I have at the time and then make adjustments as needed.

I always try to make choices that reflect my values, but then I try to be gentle with myself if I make mistakes or if things don't go exactly as I thought they would.

My favorite quote from this chapter is:

Once you make a choice, you are free to change it under changed circumstances or in light of new knowledge.

- Alexandra Stoddard

The truth is, is that sometimes we make choices that we think are going to give us very specific results, but things don't go as planned.

But, that's okay.

I've learned to let go of the idea that I always "know" what's "best" for me because sometimes I don't actually know for sure.

That's just part of being human.

May we always be compassionate with ourselves as we gently make choices in this messy, beautiful world.

With love,

from Julia

-------------------------------

A note about inspirational quotes: I've noticed that inspirational quotes don't always apply to me when I'm in survival mode or other states of being, like in times of rest or when things are out of my control. This is why I always check in with myself before taking in the messages. If a quote doesn't feel applicable to me in the moment, I simply ignore it and remind myself that not everything applies to me all the time.

A note about my social values: I recognize that not every person has access to the resources needed to be able to cultivate a life of peace, beauty, and joy, which is why I will always support systems and people who are doing the work to move toward a world that supports the basic needs and rights of all people. I believe that "the true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members." - Gandhi