Finding Your Constant

What is “The Constant” in Your Life?

As I sat down to write this post, I couldn’t help but think about the popular TV show LOST, which has recently made its way to Netflix. I’m excited for more people to discover this show, as it has left a lasting impact on my life. From 2004 to 2010, I tuned into ABC each week to find out what happened to the passengers of Oceanic Flight 815.

A Special Episode

Although it didn’t quite land the plane (heyo!) with its final few seasons, few will take umbrage with my belief that one episode in particular was one of the best hours of TV I’ve ever seen: Season 5’s “The Constant.”

The Constant

In this episode, a character finds himself existing within two realities inside his mind, and he’s slipping further and further from real life. It’s only through his “constant,” his girlfriend, that he finds his way back from the brink. I won’t spoil it for anybody who hasn’t seen this episode, so I’ll just speak in generalities.

A Constant in My Life

I thought of “The Constant” a lot back in 2011 when I traveled around the world. For 18 months, every part of my life was abject chaos: a different hostel every night, a different group of travelers every day, a different country every week or month, and a different place to eat for every meal.

Finding Solace

While everything else around me was changing, my workouts became my constant. The thing that kept me sane, and grounded, was finding a place to do my playground workout every other day. With LOST making its way to Netflix, I was reminded of The Constant again these past few weeks as my travel schedule picked back up.

My Constants Today

These days, these are the “constants” I prioritize through the ups and downs of life:

• 15 minutes of moving my body.
• 150 grams of protein + serving of fruits/vegetables.
• One hour focused on writing in the morning.

I know that no matter where I am, no matter what I have access to, if I prioritize these few things, I feel more grounded and strong and healthy, even if the rest of my schedule is a mess.

What is Your Constant?

I’ve talked a lot about “self-care” lately, and how we often think the solution is external (buying bath bombs or a 90-minute massage), but the reality is often internal: establishing or accepting boundaries, exercise, etc.

Finding Your Constant

When everything feels like a hurricane around you, what are the things you prioritize daily to keep you from floating off into outer space:

• A 10-minute conversation with your spouse?
• Going to the gym?
• Sitting for a quick meditation?
• Calling your mom?
• A 5-minute walk?

Conclusion

In these uncertain times, it’s easy to feel like we’re split between two realities. Sometimes, when our identity is stolen from us, our “constant” might need to change. What are the things that keep you tethered to reality? I’d really love to hear from you.

FAQs

* What is “The Constant”?
“The Constant” is a character in the popular TV show LOST who finds himself existing within two realities inside his mind.
* Why is “The Constant” important?
“The Constant” is important because it reminds us of the importance of establishing or accepting boundaries, exercise, and other internal practices to maintain our sense of self in chaotic times.
* What are some common “constants” people prioritize in their lives?
Some common “constants” people prioritize in their lives include exercise, meditation, conversation with loved ones, and other self-care practices.