The weight of constant “shoulds” can be exhausting — feeling like you “should” do more, “should” be better, or “should” get others to change. And worse — these cycles often include a lot of negative emotions like self-criticism, regret, and frustration.

But there’s a different way. Instead of pushing yourself with rigid expectations, you can cultivate a natural sense of motivation that is sustainable and freeing.

So this week, I talked about how you can move beyond harsh self-judgment and external demands toward a more spacious, compassionate way of living. I also offered a meditation that invites you to gently rest your attention on the present moment while allowing tension and unnecessary anxiety to dissolve.

Click here to join the free Wednesday Meditations – which are open to everyone!

Meditation: Stable Presence with an Open Heart

Talk: What Should You Do About Your . . . Shoulds?