We work hard on our work resumes.
But what about our life resumes?
The years I remember the most were the ones when I had a year-defining event that I was actively and relentlessly working toward. Completing an Ironman. Quitting my clinical nutrition job and starting my own private practice. Writing and self-publishing my book.
I came across the concept of ‘misogi’ recently. In Shinto faith, ‘misogi’ means ‘water cleansing.’ In practice, individuals make a yearly pilgrimage to frigid waterfalls, lakes, and rivers to purify and cleanse their minds and bodies. The aim is to scrub yourself clean of the contamination caused by modern conveniences.
In current society, some have adapted ‘misogi’ to represent their year-defining challenge. An event, adventure, or personal/professional milestone that is extremely challenging and hard. One that forces someone to ‘cleanse off’ their self-doubt, worries, laziness, and fear to complete. One where there’s a possibility that you may not complete it, finish it, or reach it. That slight possibility is what make it your misogi, versus just another adventure. By relentlessly working toward your misogi and pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, you discover new potential in yourself. You unlock a new gear. Find your new edge.
When someone asks you about 2025, what do you want to be extremely proud of working toward and completing?
What scares you and excites you at the same time?
Make this your misogi.
Then put it on your 2025 calendar.