Getting Comfortable With Being Comfortable

 For many of us, the past couple of years have been an exercise in discomfort.  Examining it, sitting with it, existing despite it - no matter where we have turned there have been many reasons for feeling uncomfortable.  This state of discomfort has allowed for inner work to take place, as we have needed to learn how to coexist with that sense of unrest.  What I have noticed in my own life is this constant state of discomfort has made moments of feeling good seem alien.  The phrase guilty pleasure comes to mind...and why should feeling pleasure be linked with a sense of guilt?

Is there anything inherently wrong with feeling good?  Should we deny ourselves the pleasure of blissful moments?

There seems to be a popular mindset based upon the idea that suffering is the path to self improvement.  Think of the number of times someone has told you that they are following a diet plan or a gym routine that they strongly dislike because the worse it feels the better it is.  Often when we hear these confessions we play into that narrative by praising the person for their perseverance; we may even silently wish that we had the same drive and determination and ability to suffer 'for the greater good'.  Now think of a time when someone shared with you that they have decided to live more intentionally.  They are going to eat, drink and move their bodies in ways that feels good and that they enjoy or are drawn to.  What is your reaction to that type of confession?  Outwardly supportive and inwardly critical?  Or awe-struck and inspired to also follow a more comfortable path to well-being?    

Why do we feel the need to beat ourselves up, to push away comfort in exchange for suffering?  Do we need to be in a state of struggle in order to achieve our goals or to feel satisfaction in our lives?  What the past two years have taught me is the answer is no.  Sure, throughout our lives we will be faced with many situations and circumstances that will challenge us, and require us to wade through some muck and will slow us down.  And yes, those times will be opportunities for growth and learning.  I also feel that we don't need to constantly live in that state of struggle in order to continue our development or to reach our goals.  What a gift we give to ourselves when we can be fully present and open to embrace and celebrate moments of contentment.

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