We live in a time of information overload-constantly being bombarded with information from a myriad of sources. Whether it be constant scrolling through social media, watching 24 hr news or binging on endless streaming videos, we are constantly being distracted from what is really going on in our lives, inside of ourselves. And, we keep coming back to those distractions, ironically looking for connection and external gratification.

This constant outward search for approval is often the reason why we don’t look for an internal source of approval. It becomes a habit to keep checking on social media, as a way to receive validation of who we are. In some way we are actually asking others to define who we are, and become unable to see the reality for ourselves. If they tell us we are doing the right thing, by liking our posts or following us on Facebook, then we must be okay; otherwise, we are not that sure. The result of this constant checking in with technology is we have no time left to reflect or ponder. If, on occasion, we do look inward, we feel a sense of emptiness and fear. Not knowing what to do with it, we then try to fill that emptiness with some external source of gratification, usually in the form of “scrolling”.

However, that emptiness is important. It is telling us that we are disconnected from who we are. This disconnect is one of the main reasons why we end up in painful life situations-accepting and living with less than we deserve. Today, set your intentions to become aware of how you use external sources to gain the peace, safety, security and the identity that you have become uncertain of. Today, instead of being distracted and entertained, spend time disconnected so that you can reconnect with yourself. When we are connected inward, our instincts become stronger, and we understand who were are and what we need to feel connected and whole. And, a strong connection with ourselves is sometimes all we need, and in some cases, all we have, to keep us sane in this insane world.

Just for today, I look within to find my treasures. It is safe for me to look within. I allow myself to be quiet and still, and I am amazed at what I discover, Life is just waiting to share its secrets with me. I know that everything I seek is already within me. I am safe. This is only change and out of this situation only good will come. And so it is.