This time of year, we reflect, we ponder, we anticipate, often hyper focusing on "If only..." in some form or another:

• If only I had a larger paycheck

• If only I was working on what I believe in vs. what I've been asked to do

• If only I had more time! (Guilty)

• If only my team was...

• If only I made that decision

There are SO MANY situations and circumstances where "If only" paired with "X" dominates our thinking and emotional capital, robbing us not just from reaping the rewards of appreciating the present moment, but preventing us from thinking clearly beyond "What would happen if I had what I was asking for?"

The reality is, we're more focused on thinking about what we wish, could, should, and deserve to have that we stop focusing what would happen if we actually have them.

Conversely, most of us lack self-awareness due to a collective illusion that because we don't have X -> insert vague, little thought out, unclear outcome, how did I even think that in the first place, reason!  This means that we turn our wants into needs primarily because of social influences outside of our own individuality.  This just means that we're prone to a level of reactivity based on the influx of "crap" that invades our purview everyday.

Then again, I challenge you to focus on the question "What would happen if?"

Seriously. What would happen if you attained those items on your wishlist?

What would that mean beyond the moment of achievement?

If we forget what we're truly fighting, striving, and sacrificing for, then how much more of "If only's" will we have vs. "What would happen if?"  Truth be told, I would imagine the former question dominating.

And so we need to...you need to...remind yourself what you're in this for and what really will give you the fulfillment in your life long term.  This may take time to realize and for some longer to crystalize. That's OK.

The most noble of efforts is to know thyself. Nosce te ipsum (Latin)