(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

This distinction is about far more than food, but food is a great metaphor. When you eat you take in sustenance. That’s useful, but dining is more:

> Eating can be done alone. Dining typically includes sharing with others.

> Eating is mechanical. Dining includes awareness.

> Eating fills the body. Dining fills the soul.

> Eating may leave you full. Dining may leave you fulfilled.

This distinction can be seen in other areas of your life:

> Traveling can be elevated to exploring.

> Filling idle time can be elevated to mastering a hobby.

> Pop fiction can be elevated to literature.

> Tending-to can be elevated to nurturing.

The distinction is in what you primarily think about the activity. If you think it’s mundane, it is. If you think it’s meaningful, then it’s that.

 

Coaching Point: Where are you ready to move from “Eating” to Dining?”

 

Copyright 2008 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.