Most people don’t take the time to be thoughtful.
Many times, we come across individuals who make decisions without first doing the most important part of the decision making process: thinking. Even the most successful people in this world can coast through life on “autopilot,” not realizing their lack of thoughtfulness. What inspires you to think? What does it mean to be thoughtful? At some point in our lives, we are forced to think, whether that be for a huge term paper due for finals, a make or break project for your job, or a nice gesture for someone you care for. To be thoughtful means to make a conscious choice with heedful anticipation of the needs and wants of others. In our fast-paced world, thoughtfulness requires desire. A want to actually DO something.
Have you ever made an attempt to be thoughtful but felt like you fell short? I definitely have. Here are four helpful ways to guide you on the road to becoming more thoughtful:
1. Be intentional. Intentionality comes hand in hand with choice. When you choose to be intentionally with others around you, thoughtfulness will start to become an important part of your life. You can be be intentionally thoughtful by trying your best to be selfless. Take someone out for coffee. Buy lunch for the car in front of you at McDonald’s. Be intentional. On your journey toward doing life well, you have no idea who’s life could be influenced by your thoughtful intentions.
2. Pay Attention. Look around you! The world is full of amazing things that our culture tends to overlook. Observe. Listen. Explore. What many people don’t realize is that the things that stick with us are the things that we personally experience. For me, experiencing someone being thoughtful towards another is extremely beautiful and encouraging. Open your ears and REALLY listen. You will be amazed by the opportunity this will give you to be thoughtful.
3. Be Still. Relax. No, really. Relax. Slow down. Take the time to just BE. Some of my greatest accomplishments come after moments of slowing down and reflecting. Genuinely seek thoughtfulness in times of stillness. Reflect on who you are, who you want to be, where this road called life is taking you.
4. Seek Understanding. Seek and you will find. Many people don’t understand because they don’t strive to understand. Seek and you will find. Kindness, helpfulness, consideration, vulnerability; all of these things can been found when you actively attempt to understand the importance of thoughtfulness. Seek and you will find.
The act of living thoughtfully means giving attention to the small things in life that are often taken for granted.
Let’s make the choice to be thoughtful, not thoughtful-ish.
