A daily task list is a good tool. Helps get stuff done right? However, The 365 Commitment requires a much more profound use of the daily list. Asking, what is most important in my life, and what can I do to focus my attention and effort in support of what is most important, transforms a mere task list into a powerful experience of self-awareness and focus. You identify the fuel for life, which is purpose and value. It is much more than a task list, it becomes a blueprint, a plan for making meaning in life. Making meaning in life is what it’s all about. The alternative is not very fluffy.
If we remain distracted and busy, we don’t have to think about our shortcomings, we can ignore and excuse our daily actions that lead us away from creating meaning in our lives. In this environment cynicism only grows as we convince ourselves not to place much value on anything. We are just running in circles, or treading water. Perhaps this is just a strategy to avoid feelings of guilt, inadequacy or failure. Perhaps it’s just a bad habit. In either case, ultimately it results in less meaning in our lives.
As I think about what underlies The 365 Commitment, what the purpose of engaging in this process is, I arrive at making meaning. Life has a point, it has a purpose. What does that mean for you? Maybe you don’t know and that is OK. Asking the question is the key, because then you put yourself on the journey of finding the answer. Searching for meaning is meaningful in and of itself!
Think about it this way. You get to find out what matters most to you! Don’t be afraid, just go for it and write down what is most important to you, what you really want. Maybe, probably, you will find that things you put on your list at the beginning of the 365 Commitment changes over time. Perhaps as you pursue them you find they are not as important as you thought. That’s great! Simply, continue to ask the question, re-aim and move forward. The point is you are on the path, moving forward, seeking meaning, and making meaning. You won’t have to wonder for long, you’ll know what doesn’t work, and you’ll also know when you are doing things that do work, you’ll feel it, you’ll know it, reality will change before your eyes. The cliché, “it’s the journey, not the destination“ makes sense in light of meaning.
We are in the business of putting people on the path to finding/making meaning in their lives. Now that is meaningful!
Ben Wagner (95)
Member The 365 Commitment
