“We don’t believe something by merely saying we believe it, or even when we believe that we believe it. We believe something when we act as if it were true.”

-Dallas Willard

There is a hum that is playing in the background of your mind. You might not think so, but if you sit in silence long enough, you will hear it.

For some, it is a symphony of ocean waves, birds singing, and leaves rustling from a gentle breeze. It is beautiful and peaceful. For others, it is nothing short of fingernails on a chalkboard. And for the large majority, it is something in the middle. It’s not the pretty pleasant symphony of nature, but it’s not cringeworthy either.

We have all encountered someone who moves to the beat of a peaceful symphony. Not only do you see the peace on their face, but you can feel it.

And this was true this past weekend when I was spending time with a group of older ladies who all seem to have this “aura” about them. So, in typical me fashion, I wanted to know more. Not to my surprise, they ALL genuinely believe life is good.

This was evident the minute I stepped in the room.  One lady in her 80’s with knee pain insisted on standing up to hug me, despite my insistence she stayed seated, and I would come to her. In her words paraphrased, “Why would I do that? I’m not that old!”. Her follow-up comment was somewhat of a reprimand for perceiving her as older than me. 😊

Our beliefs shape how we perceive our abilities and, thus, influence our actions.

Back to the hum. Can you hear it? If so, how does it influence your behaviors? Does it motivate you to act in accordance with what you believe to be true about you?

I recently learned that a moso bamboo seed planted in the ground takes several years before it pierces through the earth’s surface and becomes visible.  The farmer diligently cares for the seed, providing water and nutrients for year one,  year two, year three, and year four, with no visible evidence that his work isn’t in vain.

But in about year 5 something incredible happens. This tall, thin, lanky plant will grow nearly 80 feet in a few weeks! This rapid growth is only possible because of the several years of diligently laying down a strong network of roots.

The hum of belief fuels the fire to work diligently at something long before we see any results.

And,

Consistent action is the essential groundwork building the foundation to make rapid growth possible.

However, in my opinion, none of this is possible if there is a “hum” of worry, fear, and self-doubt playing in the background.

Self-fulfilling prophecy is real. Whether you believe you can or you can’t, you will be right.

The “placebo effect” is real.

If you stop and listen, the hum is there. And it is real.

The sound of nature’s symphony is peaceful, and powerful, and life-giving. And it is real.

So, how do you get it and keep it? Belief.

Belief that the world is good.

Belief that people are good.

Belief that your creator is good and his ways are meant for your good.

Is this easy? No.

Is it possible? Absolutely.

1. Visualize success: imagine yourself achieving your goals. This can strengthen your belief.
2. Challenge self doubt: Recognize and reframe limiting beliefs that hold you back. Don’t ignore the hum.
3. Start small to build confidence: Focus on small victories that build your confidence.
4. Seek role models: Seek out those who are where you want to go. Block, mute, and “unfollow” those who only discuss their problems and limitations.

Belief is the root of action. Without it there is no plan that can endure.

And,

With the belief that you CAN, doubt CAN’T creep in.

The pleasant and peaceful hum will motivate you to take action. And when the wind and rain come, and it will come, you will stand firm in the unwavering strength of your faith that something beautiful is up ahead.

This week, take some time to listen. Turn off the TV, radio, computer, and even the a/c if you need to. Quiet the actual noise around you. Pay attention. What do you hear? Is it giving you peace and the motivation to take action despite the results you might not be seeing?

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