I want to be like Mickey Mouse
This is my cat, Mickey Mouse. Today she chose the back of the couch in front of the bay window for a morning snooze.
I envy this cat, but not just because she has the ability to nap at any time.
I envy her because she knows:
- Exactly when to nap
- Exactly where to nap
- Exactly how long to nap
- Exactly what position to nap in
I’m not sure of a single small business owner — or even a single person in any circumstance — who acts with that degree of certainty. When we make decisions, we weigh pros, evaluate cons, ask for advice, reverse our first choices and sometimes regret our decisions. I ponder “perhapses” and “what ifs” and “if onlys” and “maybes” until I forget what it is that I’m actually deciding.
I’m in the process of revamping the Avenue Z Tool Box completely. I’ve hired a design firm to give me a new look and some great new tools. And I’m putting energy into getting ready for the relaunch, finding sponsors, setting up ratings, preparing advertising campaigns… all in preparation for what I hope will be a successful book (or book series) about freelancing.
But IS IT WHAT I WANT TO DO? Am I making the right choice? Should I just keep writing away for my clients? Should I focus on writing fiction? Would someone please tell me how to steer the next few years of my life? Ugh! Who put me in charge?
Oh, to simply KNOW what is right. To be born with the idea that decisions are simple, peaceful things that take no more energy than stretching in a patch of sunlight. I’ve not once seen my cat look from window to couch to window again, wondering which spot will bring the most pleasure. She simply walks past me, flicks her tail and settles into the best spot in the house each and every time, no matter where it is.
After this picture was taken this morning, Mickey begged for D.J.’s cereal bowl so she could finish the milk. Then, without hesitation, she marched into my office and jumped on her blanket, which I placed over D.J.’s leather briefcase in the printer stand. That is exactly where Mickey wants to be. No discussion needed.
Jenny on 04 May 2009 at 5:49 pm #
It’s because she knows she is queen, and any decision she makes is the right one. I had a spiritual teacher once say that every decision we make is correct; each path holding some sort of knowledge or lesson. Sadly though we can find good in everything, we hone in on the bad. Now we worry. We just don’t seemed to be programmed for always finding the silver linings, instead we regret what we do. I, for one, hope to attain a gentler way of choosing someday and may just emulate Mickey Mouse. A nap will be heavenly!
Andrea on 07 May 2009 at 12:22 pm #
Why do we search for the “right” choice in a world that has few absolutes? Different choices will lead you down different paths and on each you will learn whatever lessons that path offers. What happens once you begin the jouney down a chosen path is not “right” or “wrong”, simply different than another journey might have been. If you find yourself in a place you don’t want to be, you review your new choices and try again.
Rebecca Smith on 08 May 2009 at 6:15 am #
Beth,
I struggle with work-related decisions all the time! I think all business owners do — or at least they should.
But I think this is one of those times when you have to trust your instincts (like a cat!); they haven’t steered you wrong yet. Good luck with your exciting new ventures!