It is often said that in order to live a full spectrum life, it is essential to connect the head and the heart. This connection allows for greater happiness in all relationships, not just personal relationships, but professional relationships as well. I work with a lot of clients who have simply closed off their hearts. This may have been from hurts of the past, trauma, or simply over-thinking and/or being over-analytical utilizing brain power more than heart power. In addition, cultural norms may have told men that it’s not okay to have too much sensitivity toward others and no one should be sensitive in the work environment. This simply isn’t the truth. When we are able to connect the head to the heart all forms of happiness, prosperity, and bliss find their way into our lives. Our health increases and we ward off diseases.
The poet, Mark Nepo writes, “The longest journey you will ever take is from your head to your heart.” When I began this process several years ago, I found a lot of information on the importance of this connection, but there wasn’t a lot of information on how to do it. So, let’s begin. Here are a few easy steps you can take to work on connecting the head and the heart:
- Be grateful! When I discover a client has a closed heart, this is an easy way to begin. I’ll simply ask, “What are 3 things you are grateful for right now?” Start with the basics such as a roof over my head, a steady paycheck, and food on the table, and branch out from there. Find a small notebook and write down 3 things you are grateful for before sleep. The only rule is that you have to come up with 3 new things every day.
- Listen with your heart. When you are listening to others, don’t focus on what YOU want to say next, as this keeps you in your head, instead simply listen. I experimented first with friends and family and then branched off into business relationships and employees. The context of the conversation became richer and deeper. People enjoyed talking to me, even briefly, because empathy and understanding were present. Relationships grew and became more meaningful.
- Be present. Live in the moment. Enjoy what you have right now, in this time and in this space. Avoid distractions and fill your time with social media, checking emails, or turning on the TV. Maya Angelou says, “Do nothing. Just sit and do nothing.” This is unheard of in our day in age, but a necessity for a more meaningful life.
Remember, connecting the head to the heart is a process; something that is constantly growing and evolving. Start with the 3 steps above and make it a part of your everyday routine. The important thing to remember is to just start! You’ll begin to notice subtle changes in your life. You’ll feel calmer, more at peace, you smile more, you don’t let things bother you as much, relationships are enhanced and prosperity in all aspects of your life begins to find you. I have every faith in you! Just start…..today!
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Fran Winslow 