I thought that title might get your attention. It’ll all make sense, promise.
Curiosity
A few years ago I picked up a little book by professor and clinical psychologist, Todd Kashdan. I can’t recall how I stumbled upon it (maybe twitter), but Dr. Kashdan’s Curious changed my life. You should read it. Good stuff.
While reading that book, I had my very first aha moment. I heard Oprah talk about aha moments over the years. A moment of clarity. The instant at which the solution to a problem becomes clear. A defining moment where you gain real wisdom.
All just words, until that day.
Something about the book flipped a switch in my head. Happiness isn’t something you find or stumble upon or buy. It’s a result of inquisitiveness, learning new things and living in awe.
Carburetors
When I left the gym this morning, there was an old, avocado green Chevy pickup parked next to my beloved 2002 Land Cruiser.
Like this one, only more well “loved”. I stood there, curiously studying it.
The owner was standing nearby, noticed my stare and asked if he parked too close to me. I chuckled, told him no and mentioned that I’m simply fascinated by old trucks. Amused, he proceeded to tell me the year (1971), when he bought and restored it (1991) and how old Chevy parts are so much cheaper than old Toyota parts.
Have I mentioned how much I enjoy talking to strangers?
For several years, I’ve been obsessed with purchasing an old Ford Bronco. Why? Because it’s a badass truck. And I love badass trucks.
After my conversation with the parking lot stranger, I decided that I should learn more about working on and restoring old trucks. I told my hubby (he was thrilled), started researching classes and ordered a few books. I instantly felt that warm and happy glow of curiosity fill my spirit.
Will I actually learn to restore an old Ford Bronco? Who knows and who cares. Maybe I’ll get bored after a week. Maybe I’ll make tons of dough restoring and selling old trucks. Maybe it’ll be the best thing I ever did.
Weight Loss
Robyn, how does this post have anything to do with weight loss?
After reading Todd Kashdan’s book, I decided that it was time to take life to the next level. I decided in that moment to lose the last 15 pounds and become a personal trainer.
I’ve never been much of an athlete AND my friends and family told me I was insane AND it would require money, time, hard work and studying for a certification exam. I could have easily talked myself out of it. But I didn’t. Instead, I became curious. Could I really do it? I wanted to find out.
Curiosity doesn’t always lead to a new career or passion. I’ve tried lots of new things that ultimately, just weren’t for me. Knitting. Belly Dancing. Working in Corporate America. That doesn’t make the experience a waste of time. Failure is success if we learn from it.
Get Excited
You can’t suffer or fight your way thin. I’ve seen too many women try this approach (and fail). I’ve been that woman. You need to be excited and curious about the journey. It’s the same for anything in life.
If you dread gardening, how can you expect to have a healthy and glorious yard full of flowers? Gardens need patience, nurturing and love. SO DO WE!
If you’re struggling to lose weight, try getting curious about life. Figure out what excites you and inspires you to get out of bed in the morning. Explore a new passion. Create more joy. Talk to strangers. And accept yourself as you are at this very moment.
THEN try to lose the weight. It’s so much easier that way. Believe me, I know.
One more thing. I’m curious – why does curious have a “u”, but not curiosity? Drove me mad while writing this. Hooray for spell check!