Maybe you've heard the old African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."
In our fast-paced modern world, it can be easy to overlook such simple wisdom.
But this saying holds true now as much as ever before. We are social creatures and we rely on a community to be our best. Sometimes it's a community in the traditional sense. Other times, the community that we identify with is something different- non-local, virtual, ideological, or interest-based. Whatever the structure, being part of a community can help us carry on in life.
There are times when it's important to be able to strike out on your own. Personal growth and transformation often require this kind of bold and courageous activity. Sometimes we need to move fast. Often, that might mean going it alone.
But those who have seen enough of history to formulate an idea of how things work might realize that, while going it alone might get you ahead, the greatest influencers often have the power to mobilize and unite others.
In which way are you more confident? In striking out on your own, blazing a trail and going it alone, sacrificing camaraderie for speed? Or are you a gatherer, willing to wait and go slow in order to help others get ready to move? Both are important qualities.
If you're not sure, try this simple meditation:
Imagine you're camping in the woods. Your campmates are still in their tents, slowly waking up. The smell of morning dew on the grass fills your nostrils as you walk quietly around the campsite. The sun is just rising over the trees and you can hear the sounds of birds above you. Ahead of you, a dirt path leads off into the forest, rising slightly up a nearby hill as it disappears amongst the branches.
Do you a) quickly scribble a note to your friends, grab your backpack, and head off on the trail by yourself to explore?
Or do you b) stoke the campfire and start cooking breakfast, intentionally making noise to wake everybody up and get them moving so that you can invite them to go hiking with you later?
Which option feels more inviting right now? How about in general?
This month, try developing the side of yourself that might not get as much exercise. Is that the independent you, forging ahead through the wilderness, enjoying the thrill of adventure and solitary discovery? Or is that the community builder, gatherer and leader side of you, content with the joys of sharing, guiding, encouraging and protecting?
If you're looking for a way to do a little of both, consider visiting your local Body & Brain Yoga Tai Chi center for a private introductory session. It's a great way to learn more about how to maximize your energy and awareness through Yoga, Tai Chi, Breathing and Meditation Exercises. Best of all, you won't have to go it alone, as Body & Brain instructors will be there every step of the way to answer your questions, provide encouragement, or maybe just to offer a welcoming smile.
Enjoy your journey! :-)