Through the Filter, Part I

I have a new thing I'm doing. I call it "putting it through the filter."

It started with this year's treasure map. I just love all the images and words I artfully and thoughtfully placed upon it to guide me in every aspect of my life. Through the process of filling my treasure map, I gained clarity in who I want to be, and what I want to create and manifest. I developed a deeper insight into what I'm most grateful for, where my priorities lie and all the opportunities for gratitude that surround me.

During this process, I also began reading Organized Simplicity. As suggested in the book, Daddy Bird and I created a family purpose statement that details who we are as a family, it reflects how we wish to live. Our statement outlines what we value, our priorities and our guiding principles. I also created a family budget, based on the suggestions in Organized Simplicity. Believe it or not, I have never in my life operated on a budget. It's changing my life, putting me in control and relieving so much unnecessary stress over money. (Thank you Simple Mom!)
So back to the "filter thing"... Before long, I found I was putting everything through the filter of my treasure map ideals, our family purpose statement and the budget. How I spend my personal time reflects what's on my treasure map... I'm reading, journal writing, gardening and exploring new creative outlets. Our family time goes through the filter too... is an activity or commitment in line with our purpose statement? ...is it within our means? ...does it support our authentic selves? How I spend our money, what I bring into my home, what I put into my body... everything is going through the filter.

And it's really working for me! I find I have more time in every day. How is this possible? Because my days are primarily filled with only the things I want to be there. I'm enjoying the moments, experiencing less stress, and feeling like there is, in fact, time to fit it all in. I do have a smidgen of control. I do have the power to create the life I want.

"Putting it through the filter" is an exercise in mindfulness. It is also an exercise in intention and attention. And it's spurred a second part to this process that I'm currently working on. I'll share it here soon!