Actions Have Consequences

Like most children do, my kids were always quick to blame someone else whenever they got in trouble. Everything that ever happened around our house was someone else’s fault. One of the lessons we spent quite a bit of time learning was that actions have consequences. Consequences can be good or bad. I think as adults we often forget that very important childhood lesson.

When we hear the word consequences, it’s received most often with a negative connotation. We behaved poorly; there will be a punishment. We made a poor decision; things won’t turn out the way we’d hoped. We fail to recognize the positive consequences of our actions as consequences. We helped an elderly neighbor by cutting the grass; they didn’t risk their safety struggling with the lawn mower. We donated to a youth baseball team’s fundraiser; they get to attend a tournament out of state.

Almost two years ago, I finally gave in and started seeing a therapist. I’d long suspected that I suffered from depression and anxiety, and for years I struggled with not being able to control my emotions the way I’d like. I made a choice to seek help. I took action. The consequence of that action is that I now have a better understanding of myself and how I can control my emotions. I’ve got nothing but positive things to say about my therapist and therapy in general. I wholeheartedly believe that everyone can benefit from some form of counseling or another.

One of the first things my therapist encouraged me to do was to spend just five minutes a day doing something for myself. It could be a quick walk around the block, listening to a favorite song, or even something as simple as coloring a picture. The intent was simply to focus on myself rather than everyone and everything else. Five minutes turned to ten, ten turned to twenty, and now I try to make a conscious effort to devote at least a half an hour a day to taking care of myself. The consequence of that action is my own happiness. I simply choose to do things that make me happy. This blog is a prime example. I’d forgotten how much I loved writing. By writing this blog, I’m exercising my creativity and finding my voice.

Our reality has changed drastically with this pandemic. I encourage each of you to take action, to do something for yourself each day that has positive consequences. Be kind and help others when you can. The consequences of kindness are often happiness and fulfillment. Another consequence of that behavior is a smile, and smiles are contagious. Let’s spread some happiness. 😊