New Year’s Evolution

by | Jan 7, 2022 | ShiftHappens

I must admit, I am not a big fan of New Year’s resolutions. 

I appreciate setting positive intentions, continual improvement, and self-reflective efforts to be a better human. However, I find the idea of rigid timelines and lofty goals counterproductive and in some cases self-defeating. Too often, they are an outgrowth of a misplaced focus on outcome over process, intensity over consistency, and towering achievement over slow and steady daily practice. 

We celebrate astounding weight loss, forgetting that it is the product of thousands of small healthy decisions made repeatedly over time. 

We celebrate awe-inspiring athletic milestones, but not the daily training regimen that makes them possible. 

We marvel at scientific breakthroughs, but ignore the fact that these advances require determination through many failed attempts before ultimate success. 

I believe it was Aristotle who said “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” 

The key here is the reference to repetition; even though we may see the new year as a demarcation of change, or sign up for a 21-day challenge, or pledge to walk 1,000 miles in 1,000 days, the truth is that building a daily practice – building a habit – is not a time-limited proposition. 

The answer to the question “How long does it take to build a daily practice?” is simple. It takes a lifetime. 

Rather than resolution, I believe in evolution. 

That’s why our work at The Pollination Project matters to me. It’s a collection of seemingly small grassroots actions that are helping evolve not just the individuals behind them, but our entire planet, into a daily practice of compassion and kindness. It is a community of people who care about outcomes and achievement, sure; but who are also in love with the process of becoming. 

There is nothing special about January 1st except that, like every other day, it is a precious gift shimmering with potential; a new opportunity to build a practice of loving kindness, one small yet beautiful step at a time. 

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Discover the Unseen, Celebrate the Unheard 🌟
Last year, we introduced you to a project close to our hearts, and today, we're thrilled to share its blossoming journey.  Throughout history, art has been a mirror to humanity's soul, reflecting beauty, culture, and the human condition. Yet, in the vast narrative of art, the voices of countless talented women have been dimmed, their brilliance shadowed.

"The Noble Dream of Being an Artist" is not merely a book, but a beacon of resilience, creativity, and the unyielding spirit of women artists through the centuries. This pioneering work sheds light on the often-unseen challenges and stories of diverse women in art, presenting a raw and genuine peek into the world of visual creativity.

Dive deep into the lives of 52 extraordinary women who've been overlooked and underrepresented, their stories waiting to be told.  Through "The Noble Dream of Being an Artist," we not only rediscover these remarkable talents but also envision a future where every artist is acknowledged.

Crafted by Gabriela Calderòn, this literary venture is a call for change, challenging societal norms and dismantling centuries-old constraints on women artists. It's a celebration of their invaluable contributions, ensuring their legacies resonate in art's eternal tapestry.

🎉 Join us in this celebration as "The Noble Dream of Being an Artist: Hidden Faces of Art" embarks on a journey to change the world. Kickstarted with a presale on March 8th through a crowdfunding campaign, the book has been launched on Amazon in both Spanish and English editions, making its inspiring message accessible globally.

But there's more! Beyond the pages, Gabriela is spotlighting the life stories of 52 female artists who faced discrimination and oblivion. To honor them, 51 incredible Costa Rican artists have come together, crafting portraits that pay homage to these pioneering women.

Let's unite in supporting this groundbreaking project, amplifying the voices of women artists for generations to come! 🧡 

@noble_sueno
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