Most of us do not take these situations as teachings. We automatically hate them. We run like crazy. We use all kinds of ways to escape — all addictions stem from this moment when we meet our edge and we just can’t stand it. We feel we have to soften it, pad it with something, and we become addicted to whatever it is that seems to ease the pain.

Pema Chödrön, When Things Fall Apart: Heartfelt Advice for Hard Times

I’ve been meeting my edge recently. My edge is full of boredom and not knowing in which direction I should go. Classic mid-life crisis I guess.

What has been helping me deal with these challenges is adding inspirational audiobooks to my daily walk.

Firstly, Hurry Up and Meditate, is an old favourite. It isn’t just about meditation, but has a lot of inspiring ideas around mindfulness and healthy thinking. It has helped me reframe my challenges – given they are mostly about the future – and live in the present more (i.e. once or twice).

Secondly, I returned to my Pema Chodron collection. Most of her books are actually her lectures typed up, so it is worth trying the audiobook. She has such a funny, kind, friendly way of presenting fairly challenging ideas that really helps improve my frame of mind.