Opening Day

I work for Intel and today is the start of my 8-week sabbatical. This is one of the unique perks my employer provides and I want to make the most of it. I think we Americans can get stuck in the daily rat race and lose sight of the bigger picture. For 8 weeks, I have the opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a person living in the 21st century.

Why do we live the way we do? What does it mean to be human? Is there a goal to our existence? How can we bring about the best in ourselves and in those around us? Should we even use terms like "better" and "best" when referring to ourselves? So many questions.

I picked up my copy of A Course in Miracles this morning. One sentence jumped out at me: "You are free to believe what you choose and what you do attests to what you believe."

What this appears to tell me is there are different ways to believe. One way is through the words we speak and think. The story we tell ourselves about the world. And then there is the way we behave in the world. The choices we make and the actions we do. Thoughts and words require less effort. It's easy to say or think something. But actions are stronger. You have to actually do something, use you time and life energy to reinforce a pattern in the world.

During this 8-week period I intend to work in both belief modalities. I will focus on both thinking and doing. I will concentrate on the forming habits and listening to the narrative I'm telling myself during the process. This will be a journey into wellness with the goal being to come out the other side healthier and happier.

I invite you to join me on this ride towards becoming, dare I say, the best versions of ourselves.

Comments

  1. UnknownJune 13, 2024 at 12:22 PM

    [dbs] You have set lofty and noble goals for your sabbatical. Bravo! Though, also be kind and forgiving to yourself. These are goals which, though crystalised, and perhaps set in motion, may take a while to become part of your thoughts and actions.
    And, of course, make time for other things Intel may normally make difficult: self care and rest, family and fun.

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    Replies
    1. Michael CollinsJune 13, 2024 at 4:39 PM

      Thanks dbs. Definitely agree with self-kindness. I'm sure you agree our industry isn't known for its compassion. Maybe even the idea of setting a sabbatical expectation is an artifact of corporate culture. It's something I want to explore.

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