In the movie, “Inception,” the mind-divers go so deep into their dreams that they need a “totem” to help them identify the dream state from reality. They use a spinning top. If the top spins and never tips, they’re dreaming. 

How do you ground yourself in reality?

I’m telling you, if you just simply wake up to the alarm, grab your phone for news and emails, and run out the door with a breakfast bar in your hand, you’ll find yourself drifting into a dream-like state of going through the motions. One day, you’ll wake up and wonder, “how did I get here?”

Instead,

Find your totem. Spin your top, and stay grounded. 

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God…” -Psalm 46:10

Start with your breath. Inhale… Exhale… Recognize that you’re alive and you aren’t the source of your breath. It’s a gift. And you’re alive for a reason. 

Add to that. Maybe it’s a notecard with key words or affirmations. Perhaps a journal or a walk or run. Reading the words of Jesus…

Find your totem. Stay in touch with what’s real and actually matters in your life.