The other day I had this impulse to send a message to an old friend. I hadn’t been in contact with that old friend for a couple of years, but the thought was in my head constantly throughout the day. How are they? Are they doing okay? It’s been awhile.
So I sent a quick message and went about my day. I never heard back from them, but the desire to do this left my brain and let me focus on other things. Don’t worry, I’ve reached out again since and they’re doing great.
What I’ve realized is that if there’s an impulse that comes into my purview, if I don’t take action, the opportunity is unrealized. These impulses have led to some of the best decisions of my life. Applying for a new job I’m probably unqualified for. Create a new piece of content. Taking my kids out for ice cream for the hell of it. Sending a message to someone saying you’re thinking about them out of the blue.
All of these impulses could easily be ignored. My willpower could easily hold them back, but I consciously engage with them because I can see the value they provide back to me. The thoughts no longer stick in my head for days, my mood stays more consistent, and my conscious can rest knowing I’ve acted.
I’ve never been an impulsive person. In fact, I’ve been quite the opposite. But over the last few years I’ve found impulses to be my body, mind, and soul telling me to do something. It could also just be some trait of ADHD kicking in my late 20s, but I’ve found nothing but positivity when doing so.
Thinking about picking up a new hobby but tell yourself you have plenty already? Act on it.
Thinking about your loved ones or old friends you’d like to regularly connect with? Act on it.
Thinking about a major change in your life like moving to another place, job, or relationship? Act on it.
Without action, we stagnate. We are creatures who seek change from time to time. The time to act on that change is whenever you have the impulse to do so.