Act as if.
I’m not sure what self-help book I was reading in an attempt to cope with some perceived crisis (I used to have a lot of crises that really weren’t), but buried somewhere in Feel The Fear Of He’s Just Not That Into The Color Of Your Parachute, I came across this concept:
Act as if.
It’s a simple idea that has helped me immensely. Act as if there is no doubt you will achieve your goal. When you drop a dress size on your weight-loss journey, don’t hang on to your “fat clothes” just in case. You’ll never need them again, donate them immediately. In a job interview, ask for what you’re worth as if it’s understood these people are dying to hire you. Carry yourself as if you will always receive the respect you deserve. Present yourself to the world with honesty, competency, and kindness, as if every connection you create will affect your success; you don’t get a second chance at a first impression. Love freely as if you will receive love freely in return.
Today I’m acting as if something I want very much is happening. I’m cleaning out my entire apartment in anticipation of moving into a house when my lease ends. I’m boxing up storage and donating unneeded things so that when the time comes to move I won’t be overwhelmed. I’m planning a budget for the next few months that makes room for a deposit and moving expenses.
It’s not a magical tool that relies on superhuman powers, it’s a way of focusing your efforts and attention to move you in the direction of your goal. Even if something happens and I’m not able to move this time, I’ll be that much closer the next time the opportunity comes. And I’ll have clean closets! There really are no losers here.
So, act as if. It works.
wisdom
