Energy flows where attention goes

Recent events, both local and international, have reminded me of a simple but powerful truth: energy flows where attention goes.

What quality would you like to see more of in the world?

What do you want more of? Peace? Understanding? Compassion? Empathy? Community?

This is where you need to put your attention. I get more of what I focus on. You get more of what you focus on.

Imagine it first. It’s easy if you try.

Here’s a simple, progressively more challenging way to practice this.

Part one

 1️⃣ Imagine yourself being the very quality you want to see more of in the world. If you want to see more love, imagine yourself being loving. If you want a kinder world, imagine yourself being kind. The place to start is with yourself.

Every day, take a few minutes to imagine yourself being this quality — more loving, more kind, more compassionate, and so on — with those closest to you. Begin with your family and close friends.

Part two

Once you feel comfortable with this first group, 2️⃣ expand to a second: people you know less well. This might include neighbours, work colleagues, or the shop attendant. In your mind’s eye, imagine yourself being this way. Give yourself permission to make it your mandate to be this quality, no matter what. Even in your imagination, when you notice yourself reacting differently in difficult circumstances, gently bring your focus back to the quality you wish to see more of.

After all, it’s as simple as using your imagination.

Part three

When you feel ready, expand to a third group. 3️⃣ This is where the real challenge begins. These are people who are very different from you. Perhaps they speak a different language, dress differently, follow a different religion, have a different skin colour, or support a different political party or leader. There will be something about them that would normally make it difficult for you to imagine being the quality you want to see more of in the world.