Somewhere along the line I heard someone talk about content just being a nicer way to say settle. I disagree with that.
A line exists between contented living and settling, albeit a fine one. Yes, those who are content are happy with their current lot. But contented people also aren't doormats. They are ambitious, yet accepting. They're easily pleased, yet not gullible.
Contented living isn't about denying yourself the best of what your life can offer; rather, living a contented life means that you know when to move and when to be still. Contented living asks you to know what you're choosing and also what you're not choosing. It's knowing what you can change, and coming to terms with what is beyond your control.
Living the content life is a balancing act of the mind, one that you consistently need to be working on; otherwise, you'll lose your way.
So, no. Contented living is not just another way to say that you settled. Settling is perhaps even a cause for discontent. The line is fine enough for me to have a difficult time finding the right words to describe it. If you live a content life, then you have decided to take control of your mind and your choices. Far more than what your exterior may indicate, contented living starts with your thoughts and then projects outward. So let's start there, in your mind. Let's start now.
This post is part of a 31-day series on contented living. You can find the other posts here.
1 comment:
Contentment is such a journey! I love how you say contentment is knowing what you're choosing and what you're not choosing. Sometimes it feels more about what I don't choose. I'd never thought of it like that before. I enjoyed this post. Glad I found you on the link up :)
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