Effortless
Effortless behaviors, actions and words are smooth, flowing, easy, elegant and graceful. They are simple, painless, trouble-free and straightforward.
The Fr, effort and LL, effortiare roots of the word ‘effort’ mean to strengthen, compel; strenuous exertion. Behind effortless movement is work, often hard work, and commitment.
There are those among us who embody an ease and graceful elegance that appear as a natural part of their being. Alas, the rest of us are bereft of this gift.
However, even those so gifted must engage discipline, focus, and repetitive practice to achieve effortless activity.
A wonderful example is Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. “Fred Astaire’s style, elegance and graceful approach to movement made him the most acclaimed dancer in the motion picture industry.” (Los Angeles Times, June 1987). Ginger Rogers, singer, actress and Astaire’s dance partner is famously cited for doing everything Fred Astaire did, only backwards while wearing high heels. (Frank & Ernest Cartoon, Bob Thaves, 1982). They had to work hard, put forth strenuous effort and dedicated practice to achieve those stunning results.
Knowing that elegant, smooth, effortless behavior can be attained through diligent practice and commitment to achieve some degree of mastery of this art, is inspiring. And that achievement can have broad ranging effects on our overall enjoyment, quality of life and inner peace.
“If you’re not someone who has a natural and effortless love for yourself, it’s hard to let go of your desire to please other people, and that is really not an ingredient for a happy life.” ~Anne Hathaway
And this quote by Debbie Ford, “When you know in your bones that your body is a sacred gift, you move in the world with an effortless grace. Gratitude and humility rise up spontaneously.”
I invite you this week to examine your own effortless behaviors, and acknowledge and celebrate the body of work, practice and commitment behind them.
Blessings!
