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“Obsession” is one of those funny words that causes diametrically opposing sentiments.  Notice that you have already either got a smile on your face or a bad taste in your mouth just from reading the title of this post!

 

Are You Obsessed?

So I now invite you to put that aside and take a few minutes with me to look at this concept of “obsession” in more detail before you choose what you want it to mean for you.

https://flic.kr/p/eBWZcD

 

Obsession:

  • a state in which someone thinks about someone or something constantly or frequently especially in a way that is not normal
  • an activity that someone is very interested in or spends a lot of time doing

 

My guess is that most of you would have come out with the first definition.  Now you are wondering why?!  Great question!  Why do you think you have come to associate negativity with this word?  What are some of the images that pop into your mind when you hear the word “obsession”?  When do you think this concept began to conjure negative feelings and emotions in you?  Notice your body posture in this place.  Notice your mood.

 

Changing Your Perspective

Now concentrate on the second definition.  Think of something you do with great interest or spend a lot of time doing.  Where do you find yourself losing all track of time?  Or blocking out everything else around you?  Where do you get into your groove?  These are the things we are obsessed with too.  

As you think about it, notice your body posture now.  Notice your mood.  Write down some of the things you are obsessed with now, today.  Add to your list what you loved doing as a child. As a teenager.  What did you sneak around for, or stay up late to do, hoping not to be caught by your parents.  Was it reading novels, playing video games, creating your own little world for your dolls?

 

Share Your Insights

Over these next few days, look at how kids play and interact.  What are they obsessed with?  Capture a bit of their magic for yourself and you may be surprised at what you rediscover about your own gifts and talents.  Share your comments below.

 

Your First Stepping Stone

If you are looking for a new obsession in your life, contact me for a free 1-hour coaching session to learn more about coaching.  You might also be interested in reading more about my Stepping Stones to Happiness programme.

(photo credit: screenpunk)