Although many of us drag ourselves to health clubs a few times a week to keep our bodies in shape, remarkably, many (myself included) routinely ignore the importance of regular exercise and healthy eating for the muscle flexing between our ears. Six weeks of agony and high attrition is the norm as skeletal muscles scream and the coronary system revolts to the rigors of a new workout program and the change ins diet. I expect similar aches and pains as I commit to a regimen of thought development through writing.
Unfortunately, the only moments I have spent thoroughly exploring and developing positions in writing were academic assignments or analysis of economic and/or market trends for business ideas I was considering. Note, I have been an infrequent, yet somewhat consistent journal keeper from childhood. The driver for the effort was an external religious directive, and the bulk of the entries were focused around that pious motivation. Although heartfelt, rarely did my expressions rise above syrupy proclamations nearly void of meaningful calories or insight into my life (Mac & Cheese vs sophisticated multiple course meals).
When I have put passion, time and courage into my writing, I have not only refined my thinking and clarified commitments I have experienced seismic shifts in perspective for the better. Occasionally, I have even inspired others to reconsider or recommit to various positions. My prime directive with this blog (what a nasty word) is to improve my analytical skills in a variety of venues from economics, politics and business to art, love and family.
Just as sports and physical training cause a wonderful release of endorphins. The 'high' of my writing routines will be the moments of flow, when the mind is focused and yet fluid. Moments I hope to increase in frequency and intensity. Under the influence of music, muses and the elixir of life, I hope to extract more truth, meaning and joy from every entry, and the inevitable spillover into life journeys, dialogue and collisions.
I look forward to the creative process, new workouts and vitamins that will enable me to experience new growth. Wish me good health and success as I embark on this effort to expand the mind and heart. Maybe, I should start with a supplement tonight...will a good Bourbon count?
