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

 

Windshields are bigger than rear-view mirrors for a reason. It is much more effective to look forward at what you are creating versus looking backward at the receding un-changeable past.

In addition to countless delights, the past may contain regrets, traumas, bumps, and so-called ‘wrong turns.’ When viewed in the reflection of a small rear-view mirror the past is much less likely to grab you emotionally and pull your attention back into it. Sure, visit the past, learn from it, include it in your present, just don’t be rooted there. It’s who you’ve been.

The view out the windshield? That’s where you’re going. Fast or slow, eagerly or carefully, with a Wahoo! and an Oh-wow! or in cautious increments, the future is what you are creating right now. It’s who you’re becoming.

When your attention is through that great big windshield, possibilities are endless. When viewed through that little bitty rear-view mirror, life looks pretty restricted.

While this applies everywhere along your path, it is a particularly important Distinction for having an enjoyable retirement.

 

Coaching Point: How big is your windshield?

 

Copyright 2017 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.