In a post a few months back, I introduced the “Magic Mindfulness Question”. That question was “What’s happening?”

I truly love that question for its power, its ability to focus the attention on what’s happening now, inside of us (our thoughts and feelings), around us, and by us, what we’re up to.

Now, I would like to introduce that question’s cousin, the “other” magic question,  which is “What’s next?”

“What’s next?” is also a refocusing question. It draws the attention not just to what you’re doing now, but more importantly,  to what needs to be done next.

Imagine you’re hacking your way through the jungle with a machete. You have a crude map and a compass. You have a destination,  say, a long lost temple (with apologies to Indiana Jones!)

The first Magic question (what’s happening) is like pausing, looking around,  and getting your bearings. It’s akin to asking “where am I?”. The second Magic question is like asking “What’s my next step?” or “what direction do I need to go in to reach my destination?”

I think the second question is as useful as the first. It holds the possibility of adjusting one’s direction slightly. Maybe we’ve strayed off the path a bit and need to get back on it. Maybe we’re exploring a new area and it’s suggesting we might want to choose a different destination.

Together,  “What’s happening?” and “What’s next?” are a formidable duo, like Batman and Robin. I suggest you try pairing them together. Maybe take a moment now, get your bearings, and take the next step on your journey. Happy trails!”