Fuel your fire

Earlier this month I was feeling on fire, inspired by the evolution of my business and my work in the world. I was on a roll. I knew the actions I wanted to take. But then current events and my husband’s surgery shifted my focus and actions—and rightly so.

Then, as I tried to return to my work, I couldn’t remember what I was doing or where I left off. I forgot myself and, in doing so, my fire died out. That’s when I received this message:

Fuel your fire!

It makes so much sense. Your internal fire is what keeps you showing up in the world to be the person you’re meant to be and to do the work you’re meant to do. When your fire dies, your light goes out. You grow cold and ineffective, of little use to yourself or anyone else.

You need to fuel your fire so your fire can fuel you. But tending your fire requires a balance. Just like a physical fire, your internal fire needs fuel, air, and heat. It’s the balance of these elements that creates the coals that keep your fire burning so you can move forward, being you and doing you. Too much of any one element, though, will either keep your fire from igniting or snuff out what’s left of your fire.

When I felt completely depleted, I needed a bit of all three to relight my fire. I focused on rest and eating well (fuel), spent time outside with the dogs or sitting on the deck reading (air), and started writing again (heat).

If you feel your fire waning, ask yourself …

What do I need to bring myself back into balance?

Just remember, by tending to your fire, you can tend to your life.