Shut Up and Try

I wasn’t quite sure what to think when I first saw this Sidewalk Chalk Art until I gave it a second look. Then it all came together for me when I saw our artist’s shoes. She likes to “stretch” herself by trying new things like stripy shoes. But the real message of the Sidewalk Chalk Art picture came to me when I noticed that one of her shoes was untied! It’s as if those untied laces are shouting out loud something like, “I’m not afraid to move forward even when things aren’t perfect!”

The Art of Overthinking

I often work with people who have mastered the art of “overthinking.” These often highly intelligent people are able to create a self-talk system around any decision they need to make – they can create scenario after scenario after scenario in their self-talk regarding this decision – but ultimately paralyze themselves from taking action. Some have called it “the paralysis of analysis.” I often ask them to read a brief excerpt from Dr. David L Cook’s wonderful little book, Golf’s Sacred Journey, in which he describes a three-step process (I add one more step) that can lead to a newfound freedom, not only in a golf swing, but in life.

Cook's Formula

“See it, feel it, trust it (SFT)” is Cook’s formula. “I could see… My final target,” “I felt the shot,” “I trusted the shot. Freedom ensued.” In so many parts of our lives, this SFT formula can really make a difference: being able to (logically and patiently) think through the problem or decision until we have a clear vision of what we are facing is a vital first step. Secondly, being able to actually feel ourselves working through this decision or problem can build great confidence within us. Then that third step of trusting our visualization and our “feel” for working through the problem can take us to my additional step: Do It!

So now the formula is “see it, feel it, trust it, do it! (SFTD). In essence, the great advice from our Sidewalk Chalk Artist – “shut up and try” really doesn’t require any more talking about it – “TRY!”

This is very similar to a process used by the apostle Paul: “… One thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal…” (Philippians 3:13, NAS)

Take The Next Step

Sometimes, you might just feel stuck and need a bit of help or counseling to follow the simple advice of this Sidewalk Chalk Art. Perhaps one of our counselors can be of help. I urge you to read more about anxiety, and when you're ready, reach out to us to schedule a free consultation.

David Dickerson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Licensed Marriage And Family Therapist Supervisor. He is the former Executive Director of CCA. David is taking new clients online.