A Twist

To start off the new year, some people choose to celebrate with an adult beverage. Adding a twist of lemon or lime can change the flavor significantly. When I was coaching basketball I always started practice the same way. After blowing the whistle to gather the players I had them do push ups, with a twist. They had to spell out the word stronger, one letter for every pushup and end by saying the word. After that, they did a drill we called Texas shooting. It was a simple drill involving short passes and easy shots. However, it had a twist also. Each time they shot the ball they said in a loud voice for everyone to hear, “I make shots.”

Both activities got their bodies warmed up, but adding the twist also planted the seed of intent in their minds. They were stronger and they made shots. I’ve read several things about the importance of intent. In the past I used it negatively this time of year, in statements regarding things I intended to do, but didn’t. It was a way of reviewing my shortcomings. 

Now I think of it as a mindset. It’s what I’m about. A directive that helps guide me through each day. I have a twist that helps me with intent. I use a white board in my home office. Early in the day I take a moment to write my intent for that day. They aren’t goals , but qualities I want to have and reinforce. An affirmation of who I am. I almost always use the word am in the intent statement. I Am Enough, I Am Present and I Am Grateful are examples. 

I could just think about these statements or say them to myself. However, I get more reinforcement by writing the words and seeing my hand form them. I also see the statement during the day. Doing this over and over, again and again, per diem is a constant trickle that helps me become more of the person I want to be, which is my intent, aided by a twist.

May you have enough today, one moment at a time.