The Power of Showing Up

As we approach the end of the year, you might be asking yourself, ‘what’s next? How do I make the new year the best yet?’

On March 9, 2020, I had no plans to create a 150-page personal, family, cultural history- my Pandemic Journal- but it all began when I made the first entry in 2020, and then kept at it for 1 ½ years.

I didn’t have any plans to create a record of my kids’ childhood when I left a note (later titled the “Morning Gazette”) for them one morning in 1986 before leaving for work…

But I kept at it almost daily for about ten years. During the same period. I didn’t intend to create a cultural, political and societal history of the time, when I tore out and kept newspaper and magazine articles on my daily commute. And I didn't intend to launch and host a podcast (“Tell Me What You’re Reading”).

It just happened. By choice, by routine and repetition.

We have 60 episodes of the podcast so far.

I didn’t intend to write a novel, a work in process with dozens of scenes to date.

I also wasn’t looking to work with a non-profit in the South Bronx, for 20 years as Chairman of the Board… but when in 2002 my son’s basketball coach asked me to get involved with Renaissance Youth Center, I said yes.

This is all to say, you never know what your art, your passions, your notes, what the things you can do can become.

Just do the thing.

Put one foot in front of the other on a path that resonates, even if there’s no destination in sight, and keep walking.

And if you’re considering pursuing a passion in the new year, here are some thoughts:

1. Decide on your objective and focus. The Zen proverb encourages, “when you're walking, walk; when you're eating, eat.” Equally important while pursuing a passion as it is at work.
2. Make deliberate choices. For most of us, unfortunately, something’s got to give. Work and career, family, other passions; you get to set your goals, your priorities, to decide what’s best for you, although the choices can be difficult.
3. Just start. A grand plan isn’t necessary. If an opportunity to pursue a passion presents itself, start, even if you don’t know how things will end up. Rather than thinking about writing a novel, think about writing a sentence, and see where it goes.

Do the thing you want to do - make time for it and don’t focus so much on the results, pursue the passion of it.

4. And after you start, Stick With It.

And as you endure, find the joy in it.