Be water!

Dear all,

It’s been one month in. Whether you are in midst of life changes and still getting used to them, or at cross roads of sorts, unsure about your next step(s), the below message is for you.

I came across a phrase by the martial arts legend, Bruce Lee, which resonates with me in this season of my life. “Be water, my friend”, he said.

This is an illustration that highlights the importance of being water - or fluid in context of changes and transitions, and in life journey.

This is apt for anyone who is in the midst of life’s changes and transitions. It invites us to consider the mindset of flexibility and adaptability. This is especially relevant in today’s society whereby change is the only constant and also, for the fact that we are all first-timers. Given that we have no preview to life or whatsoever, whatever we encounter is likely novel and unfamiliar to us. It may look like manoeuvring the sharp corners and  moving forth in spite of barriers, or lapses - just like water does.

As we encounter water in its naturalistic settings, water can be seen travelling over land surfaces (run-off), into rivers, lakes, and eventually back to the oceans. This can parallel our lives, in which we tend towards the natural flow, often most accurately guided by our hearts. Going with flow (heart) is a rather active and dynamic process, in which individuals tend to navigate around/past obstacles, challenges and situations, seek to align and reach towards their (heart’s) desired outcomes. And it is an ever evolving process too; one where you can review paths as journey unfolds.

Similar to how various streams can eventually lead to the main sea or ocean, every individual is welcome to take different routes that may lead to the same destination. This places things in greater perspective for those who often find themselves caught in rat-race and/or constant comparison with the rest in the society. It suggests the importance of honouring one’s own personal (and unique) journey.

Just like water can take the shape of any containers, this illuminates how fluidity can be supportive in instances whereby plan A fail or prove not to be ideal. This can be anxiety provoking for those who are used to having a fixed plan or time-line. For some of us, adopting this water-like flexibility in our jobs can be beneficial. In my work, for instance, it allows me to go with the flow of my clients’ preferences and needs in the moment and adjust therapy focus(es) accordingly, to attend to what’s most pressing in the season. It likens to riding the wave that’s most alive in that instance and it is often in such moments where maximal insights are gleaned.

An average adult body is made up of about 60% water, suggesting that water is a relatively important sustenance for our functioning and living. This, coupled with all the above reasoning, show that with a mindset characterised by fluidity and flexibility, it helps us to respond in helpful ways. We stay tuned in to challenges and need for recalibration, undeterred by “detours” and “bumps” along the way, and perceive these as insights and learning pitstops. As a result, we gain clarity not just in our life’s direction but also, in self knowledge. Through this lens, life is seen as an expedition where any deviation can potentially be an exciting adventure characterised by surprises, fulfilment and insights.

So, to all of you people out there, be water, my friend!

If you require some support in your expedition, do reach out. Otherwise, do share this post with someone else who may benefit from learning about this.

Rooting for you always,

Jeanice