Rise & Grind 👑 🙌🏾
Here’s a deeper look at how we can bring the 4th agreement “Always Do Your Best” into real-world situations. This one’s all about consistency and self-compassion, knowing that our “best” is a dynamic standard that we set in each moment. Here’s how it shows up in our lives and how applying this agreement can help us overcome common struggles:
1. The Action That Grounds It All
– Real World Example: Ever start a new habit (like exercising or journaling) only to lose momentum because of a bad day or two? We often get caught up in all-or-nothing thinking. With *Always Do Your Best*, we remember that our best effort changes day-to-day. Some days, our best might mean going for a run, and on tougher days, it might mean just getting outside for a walk.
– Overcoming It: Instead of judging ourselves for not hitting some ideal version of “perfect,” we can practice showing up fully in each moment, without pressure to exceed ourselves. This approach helps us build consistency and lets us be gentler with ourselves, keeping the habit alive without burnout.
2. Letting Go of Perfectionism
– Real World Example: Picture trying to give the perfect presentation at school or work. We often obsess over every word, worried it won’t meet our high standards. By focusing on doing our best instead of achieving perfection, we remind ourselves that we’re human and not a script.
– Overcoming It: Instead of aiming for flawless delivery, we focus on making a genuine effort. Doing our best means we put in preparation, but we allow flexibility. This reduces stress and encourages us to see each experience as a step forward, no matter the result.
3. Finding Joy in Action
– Real World Example: In routine tasks like washing dishes, studying, or even answering emails, it’s easy to feel bored or look for shortcuts. With *Always Do Your Best*, the goal shifts from getting things over with to finding meaning and fulfillment in each action.
-Overcoming It: By being present, we remind ourselves that this moment matters as much as any other. It’s less about finding joy in the task itself and more about finding joy in being fully engaged. When we do our best with each action, we’re less likely to feel like we’re wasting time or waiting for “better” moments.
4. Living Fully in the Moment
– Real World Example: It’s easy to feel weighed down by regrets from the past or anxieties about the future. Maybe we’re stressed about a recent argument or worried about upcoming challenges. With “Always Do Your Best”, the focus moves to this exact moment and doing the best we can now.
– Overcoming It: When we release the grip of yesterday and tomorrow, we give ourselves the chance to experience the moment as it is. We can say, “In this moment, I’m doing my best to let go of stress and focus on what’s right in front of me.” This mindful practice builds resilience and shows us that our best is something we can practice at any time.
In each one “Always Doing Our Best” encourages us to embrace the process rather than get hung up on the result. With this perspective, our best might be imperfect, but it’s enough. This agreement encourages us to keep moving forward without judging or overburdening ourselves, making it the ultimate act of self-compassion.