“We need to stop thinking about infrastructure as an economic stimulant and start thinking about it as a strategy. Economic stimulants produce Bridges to Nowhere. Strategic investment in infrastructure produces a foundation for long-term growth.”—Roger McNamee
Emotional.
I have described the Emotional dimension as the keystone of well-centered fitness. Our emotional well-being secures the other dimensions—Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, and Social. At the same time, it is dependent upon these other dimensions. One’s Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, and Social wellness provides the “infrastructure” for the Emotional dimension.
It seems that a common political practice is to think about infrastructure as “an economic stimulant” as Roger McNamee pointed out. In such situations, much of what is done is largely cosmetic, such as resurfacing highways. This was done along my commute, and there are now long ruts (i.e., potholes) that stretch for miles. Needless to say, these do very little to help my Emotional well-centeredness!
The Emotional component of our growth plan needs to be strategic rather than an “emotional stimulant”. In other words, while daily affirmations, self-talk, and motivational podcasts and music can help, our growth plan for Emotional well-centeredness must focus on “infrastructure”. This strategic “infrastructure” plan requires an investment in our Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, and Social dimensions. Without such a daily investment, our emotional state remains quite fragile and susceptible to the wear-and-tear of daily traffic. It is not enough to say, “I will be positive, today” or “I choose to be happy”. Doing so, is like repaving a bridge that is structurally weak. One might appear content and happy, but will crumble at the first sign of stress.
There are countless things one can do on a regular (daily) basis to provide Emotional “infrastructure”. Daily (preferably morning) journaling is one thing that lays a solid foundation for Emotional well-centeredness. Key to this is consideration of the five dimensions and setting appropriate goals. Rehearsal of one’s values and mission statement should be a daily activity. I have found great value in considering the “opportunities” that the day presents (remember, this is an activity of choosing to look at our circumstances in a more positive light, as opposed to thinking of them as burdens or challenges). My friend, Andy Lausier, refers to this as moving “from have to get”. In other words, I don’t “have to…”. I “get to…”. It is a subtle but effective practice. Jim Harshaw refers to the “productive pause”. This is taking time during the day to just stop and regain clarity on one’s goals and purpose. We need to slow down and hit the reset button from time to time. Prayer and meditation have their place in our frequent pauses. In addition, the role of exercise and diet cannot be overlooked. Reading, too, provides critical “infrastructure” for our Emotional well-centeredness—particularly when we include subject matter that is uplifting and inspirational. Moreover, we need our Social connections. Mastermind groups and mentors can surely keep our Emotional “infrastructure” strong. I have mentioned before my practice of having a daily “15-minute Check-in” with my wife. This has become a necessary part of our day. And, of course, one must consider his/her environment, be it work, home, or social. Who and what we surround ourselves with has a dramatic impact upon our Emotional state and cannot be overlooked.
Practice they things which give you Emotional strength. Do not attempt to put a cosmetic façade on a collapsing infrastructure. We can only briefly mask the structural weaknesses. Seek emotional stability. Move forward with a positive momentum that will not be easily halted by the certain negative forces that will work against you. Take time to strategically build the “infrastructure.”
Carpe momento!