Dreaming For Real

Excerpt from "Lenore"

2017-07-30T16:59:00.001-05:00

Over the last few years I gave bern working on a novel if sorts.

This part of the story is about a yong Shaman on ger first vision quest. Tbe setting is the Ozark mountains in Northwest Arkansas.

There will be more later. The tittle is "Lenore"

Tinka walked through the woods picking small flowers preparing herself and chanting. The spring sun felt good on her face. There was a nip in the air. She began to feel uneasy. It was a quiet morning. It was too quiet.

There was no birds chirping, or deer running in the distance, not even a beetle or cricket could be heard. She shivered.

Tinka crouched down under a tree. She felt the cool ground under her fingers. It began to tremble. She quickly withdrew her hand. Then there was a sound, it started like a low rumble in the distance. “Big wind is coming” she thought. “I must warn the village”. She stood and started to run. The sound grew louder and louder. It was going to over take her, the sound was roaring in her head, but she stopped running. There was no breeze.

Other sounds came. First there was the sound of hoof beats clackity, clack, clackity clack. Like that of many heard of ponies, but not hoof beats. What was it? Then she heard the whistle. It was like Red Hawks whistle only louder and higher pitched. The roar went right through her. She fell to the ground hoping it would blow over her.

She looked up to see the brightest light, so bright as the sun in the darkness. She drew herself up, and started running. The sound roared around her.

She turned to see what was so loud. She saw the big black face of the demon. It had on big bright eye with that was as bright as the sun. It bellowed black thick smoke from the top of its head, and it was bearing its teeth, large black and grinning an evil grin. She started running again. It made a shrill cry, louder than any whistle or flute. She felt like she couldn’t breathe.

When she caught her breathe she ran hard. Just before she made it to the clearing where the village was, she saw smoke through the trees. She ran harder. She felt that her heart would pound from her chest. When she got to the edge of the clearing, she saw it. Her village, she dropped to her knees. It was gone.

Burned. Nothing left. No people, no dogs nothing but rained ash. She opened her mouth to scream but nothing came. She was in shock. Uncontrollable sobbing came over her. She lay on the ground trembling.

She covered her head. Then it was gone. She lay on the ground trembling. What was that she thought? She heard the birds, then the crickets. She heard the crunch of leaves in the distance. She felt the warm spring sun on her body. She slowly opened her eyes. She was fine.

She laughed to herself. What did she expect? She was the daughter of a medicine man on a vision quest. “What a strange and awful vision”. She thought. After vision quest, she was going to lead a moon lodge.

She wandered into the stream, splashed some water on her face. The water was cold. She shivered. A squirrel yelled at her and ran up a tree.

She started laughing to herself. Did she really expect to go on a vision quest and not have a vision? But really” she thought “what was that? Great spirit, why?”

“Oh Great Spirit!” she cried out, “Why have you shown me this horrible thing?” She did not know quite how to tell her father the medicine man what she’d seen.

It was three day before she was to lead her first moon lodge. She went back to her shelter to pray. How would she explain the vision?

The next day it rained. Rained hard. It rained sideways at times. Through the rain and mist she could see people, but not normal people... They had limbs missing or strange holes in their bodies and were caked in dried blood. Some were caring funny sticks, and dressed in blue, with strange head dresses.

She felt feverish; she didn’t come out of her shelter all day. He had come here to have visions, but this was hard to see.

The next day she returned to the village. She saw they were cleaning up sticks and tree limbs and other debris. The storm had done some damage to the village.

She found her way to her father’s hut. When she greeted him he took one look at her and wrapped her in deer skin. She lay down in the corner by the fire. She was still shivering from the fever. Her father began to chant as he mixed some herbs and hot water together.

“Oh, my little Squirrel” she began to chant. “Oh my little Squirrel. You are so brave. Take this and you will sleep”. He continued chanting as she drank the dark green tincture. It made her gag a little it was so bitter. He lifted the cover and rubbed her feet.

Then he covered her and stepped outside. He sat right in the door way. An old woman came scurrying over. He stopped her from entering. “She came home. She is with vision”. The old woman nodded and sat next to him...

The herbs were heavy and think in the cup. The mixture looked and smelled like swamp water. She downed it all. She trusted her father and is wisdom. It tasted like swamp water too. She almost gagged.

Her head was still spinning her head was hot and heavy, like a sweat lodge stone in the fire. Suddenly images of woman flashed before her in rapid succession. They were tall, short, different skin tones. , dressed in strange costume, hair in different colors and forms. She had never seen before any of these women before.. She was very confused in her fevered brain.

She had to settle down, she took a deep breath and decided in order to get through this and understand the meaning of what Great Spirit was trying to tell her, she picked on of the images to concentrate on. “yes” she thought, “that one” she started to concentrate hard on the last image. The woman had short bobbed hair the color of chestnuts, and her grin was slightly mischievous. She was wearing oddly pointed shoes that lifted her heels on thin spikes, and a tunic that only came to her knees. It had strange folds like a fan.

“yes, yes that one...”

More images raced into mind. The lady grew older and older. Now she had short gray hair and glasses, Wearing a short tunic with spots. She was doting of a curly haired girl. Then she was older laying on some kind of platform, covered in blankets and surrounded by other women. They were crying. This must be her funeral ceremony.

She floated herself over the old woman She gurgled and took her last breath. She turned in the air hovered another minute and settled into the body of the old woman. She could hear the other woman talking and sobbing.

The older woman of the three attending women was saying “I love you, we love you. It’s Ok Mamma. You can go.” Tinka herself started to cry with them. Remarkably, in this moment she understood there strange words. She could feel their grief.

She was starting to feel comfortable in this new-old body. She could feel fingers, toes; this really surprised her. It was like she wearing her own skin. She had never done anything like this before. She thought, “Is this what it feels like to die?” Then all was quiet.

More images blazed into her head-- trees, flowers, familiar places, children playing, a laughing baby. She giggled for a moment.. The connection was glorious

She could hear birds singing and the sound of rushing water. The sun began to shine on her face. Tinka felt so free so alive. Her body tingled like it never had before. She turned to see the woman picking flowers. She could her hear humming to herself. She looks so peaceful and happy. She d. She was home, the rolling hills, the maple and the oak, the elm, the rich blood red earth She her head to the sky and howled!

She leaned against a knotted old oak tree. A small creek rushed nearby. Being with this woman she felt like a part of soul had been healed. She looked back at the tree; there were strange carvings in it she didn’t understand, and astonishingly her mark was also carved into the tree higher up! Tinka walked down to the creek. If she was right she knew the water would be cold and slightly sweet to the taste. The other woman was there too picking the greens out of the middle of the creek. She was humming and munching on the sweet cress.

The Ferryman

2017-07-02T08:29:00.000-05:00

A while back I saw a flash

fiction contest that I wanted to enter. Unfortunately, I missed the deadline to enter, but I wrote the story anyway.
The story is about an undertaker at sunrise. I call it "The Ferryman". Here goes.

A gray figure trying to blend into the darkness walked along the city street. the pre dawn air was cool. he walked quickly hoping not to be noticed by anyone, this was his time.
he was distraught. he couldn't stop thinking of the twins.Girls, they had just turned ten. he couldn't shake the look of their swollen bruised little bodies. the car crash had taken its toll.
In the ER their mother was sobbing, inconsolable. their father sat like a bump on a log in the waiting room in waiting. his injuries were minor, but they say that is that happens when one has been drinking.
He and his father had been there, and his brother Norm. The had taken possession of the girls bodies, and promised the most delicate of care. They were the undertakers.
He had known the father from college, what a pompous ass, Neil Feldman, but that those memories had been tucked away. He hadn't thought about Neil since he left school.

Seeing Neil brought him back to his college days How Neil had tortured him, teased him about studying to be an undertaker. How morbid how sick, Neil and his friends would scoff. Everyone else in his biology was was studying to be something else, doctors, pharmacists, nurses. he had just ignored them, even though it did hurt. he couldn't help it if they couldn't figure him out. he was a bit of a dark soul, but he was no ghoul. he liked having an air of mystery.

yes He was studying to be and undertaker, like his brother before him, and his father and grandfather before him. When the students went into the biology lab to work with, and practice on the cadavers, they teased him called him a ghoul and even a vampire a vampire? that reference he didn't understand.

He guessed this is what he would always do. He would sneak into the embalming room as a child and watch as his father would prepare the dead for viewing. In the office were replicas of some canopic jars, a copy of "Grays Anatomy" and a small statue of Kali. He presumed his family were the caretakers of the dead. After all it had been the family business for generations. In school he had felt a connection to Charon, the ferryman that ferried souls across the Styx.

Bodies didn't bother him, the embalming process, and the rebuilding, sculpting and painting of the body to make it presentable viewing didn't bother him, just the opposite. after twelve years he still found his work fascinating. this time however was different. Maybe because they were so young? He usually prepared them when they were older, nat the end of many long years, not near the beginning. He wept.
no, Neil might have been an ass, maybe even the cause of his daughters deaths, but that was not his concern now. He stood shivering in the morning air. There was a cold wind coming off the water when he walked into the park, Hw wrapped tighter in his coat.

The sky was starting to lighten, it was now pearl and soft pink. He sat there on his favorite bench trying to think and clear his head. He was a dark figure, quiet, dark tall and thin, Norm was the outgoing one, he was the one one who would meet with the grieved. norm always knew what to say, and how to handle the living. he was the artist below stairs. the lab was his.

He and Norm had worked long and hard though the night to prepare the girls for tomorrows funeral. there was lot to do, embalm them, wash and dress them, and paint their faces so that they didn't look broken and bruised. They added bits to make their faces not look so broken. they were like fragile china dolls. but still just girls never knowing more of this world. maybe that was what bothered him. the loss of innocence. the brutal and violent way they died.
The light was changing again, more pinks, and a blush of salmon, the air was getting a little warmer.
He had put Neil and his cohorts away years ago. he hadn't thought about them since college, yet, there he was, and his grieving wife. He guessed she was pretty despite her tears and her swollen face. Neil smirked when their eyes met, "figures we would meet here" he said, as he sighed then signed release for the funeral home. Norm raised an eye brow but said nothing.
He looked out the water of the river was blushing to match the sky. he took a deep breath, letting the damp air fill his lungs, sometimes the the lab where he worked was too cold and bright. He loved walking here after he had finished preparing a body.
The job was hard when the deceased were children. Norm would be home by now having a drink and getting ready for bed.
but he thought honestly he did like what he did. And he would put his feelings aside when he was working. he watched the sky turn red crimson and orange then lighter and lighter.
He watched as the sun looking like a large red ball had peered above the horizon,It was light now, he turned and started his stroll home, The day had broken wide open, and so had he.
Neil would probably be facing charges for vehicular homicide or DUI or something and his wife, who knows if she would recover from her loss, but that wasn't his. He had done his job, he prepare the girls, dressed them combed their hair, painted their lips like china dolls and placed tokens in their mouths for their lonely ride across the river Styx.

Using Happy Memories to Get Through Tough Times.

2015-10-20T10:28:00.000-05:00

I place great significance on happy memories. They keep me pushing through difficult times even when I feel like giving up. Recollections of wonderful moments remind me that they are possible despite my challenges.

When a loved one moves away, their absence makes me feel sad. But cherished memories of our good times together help me to feel closer to them. I avoid being distracted by the fact that they are far away.

It is easy to give into feelings of self-doubt during challenging times. But I think back to all the times when I was successful. I use those positive memories to drive my self-confidence. I become motivated by past successes.

Filling my mind with happy memories allows me to maintain a positive outlook. That outlook results in positive actions and an approachable demeanor.

By keeping myself upbeat, I am able to treat others with respect and consideration. Even when someone challenges my peace of mind, I use my mindset to respond constructively. The outcome is much better for everyone that way.

Today, I treasure those memories that take me back to a positive place. I commit to using them as motivation to reach for greater things. I avoid dwelling in a doubtful mindset because I know I have a good track record of succeeding amidst challenges.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What can I do to turn challenging situations into positive experiences?

2. What strategies can I use to get myself out of a self-doubting phase?

3. How can I engage my loved ones who live far away so we continue to make good memories?

Learn to Forgive

2015-09-25T12:01:00.001-05:00

Forgiveness is my sanctuary.

Forgiveness makes my world a safer place. Letting go of resentments protects my physical and mental health.

Pardoning others helps me to overcome self-pity. I learn to view myself as a survivor. I handle disappointments and carry on with my responsibilities.

Resolving conflicts brings me peace. When my mind is at ease, I have more energy to devote to the activities that are meaningful to me.

Practicing forgiveness strengthens my relationships. My friendships become more durable. I am able to interact effectively with a broader range of co-workers and neighbors. This gives me more support and opportunities to grow.

I know that forgiveness is a process. Sometimes it is easy. Sometimes I work hard at it.

When I find myself unwilling to forgive, I pray and meditate. I think about the benefits of opening my heart.

In challenging situations, I approach forgiveness gradually. I put myself in the other individual’s position to try to understand their actions. I wish them well even if I continue to disagree with their decision.

I distinguish between pardoning others and being a doormat. When I forgive someone for any trouble they may have caused me, I enable myself to transform our relationship. We may grow closer or we may move on to new situations that are better for both of us.

Today, I discover safety and freedom through forgiving myself and others.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Who is one role model who shows me the power of forgiveness?

2. What is one example of how I enhanced my own well being by forgiving someone?

3. What does myl faith teach me about showing mercy?

I Find Beauty in all Circumstances

2015-09-24T15:05:00.000-05:00

I attract beauty.

My life is filled with positive and beautiful experiences. I attract opulence with my mind. Beauty is part of my daily life.

Beauty surrounds me while I enjoy nature. The animals, rivers, fields, and flowers are part of a gorgeous network of life. I take pleasure in seeing these places and animals. I attract the best parts of the world.

My home is my castle. I attract beautiful furniture, linens, and tableware, so my house is a stunning model of design. I fill my house with artwork from talented people who inspire me on a daily basis. I am aware of my surroundings and appreciate the details.

I find beauty in all circumstances. My drive to work is a good experience because I can see the beauty around me.

I attract loveliness while running errands. Each task is filled with beautiful people and buildings. My surroundings are lavish and grand. I notice the small touches others contribute to make the places more pleasing.

I notice beauty in my dreams. Even my unconscious mind produces splendid images for me to enjoy each night. I remember my dreams in the morning and appreciate them.

Today, I remind myself that I have the power to attract beauty. I enjoy finding magnificent people and places in my world. I am a part of an exquisite universe filled with incredible beings.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How do I plan to attract beauty at work?

2. How can I ensure I notice every beautiful detail of the world around me?

3. How can I help others see the beauty around them?

Fearless

2015-08-30T08:40:00.001-05:00

I teach myself to be fearless.

Being fearless liberates me from the restrictions I place upon myself. My opportunities expand. My mind becomes peaceful. I accomplish more. Rather than wanting shelter from difficulties, I want the capacity to rise to any challenge.

I know that I create my own fears. That means I also have the power to extinguish them.

Greater understanding makes life less scary. I teach myself to let go of whatever is causing my distress.

When I feel afraid, I bring my fears out into the open. Focusing on my breathing dispels my anxieties. My muscles relax and my thoughts are purified.

I live in the moment and avoid anticipating everything that could go wrong. It is prudent to make plans for typical challenges, like traffic delays and bad weather. But it is also essential to realize that many events are beyond my control.

I trust myself to handle whatever comes my way. Looking back on past adversities teaches me that I can triumph over challenging circumstances. I may find a better job after I get laid off from one position. I may learn to manage a chronic medical condition through simple lifestyle changes.

I face hardships head on. Taking prompt action teaches me that I am resilient. Finding solutions becomes my focus.

I acknowledge my feelings. I am gentle with myself when I feel uneasy. At the same time, I decide to move ahead anyway and fear shifts to the background.

Today, I show great courage. I confront my fears and watch them go away.

Self-Reflection Questions:

What do my greatest fears reveal about me?
How can I overcome habits that reinforce my fears?
How would being fearless change my life?

How to end a meditation

2015-02-23T12:25:00.000-06:00

Are You Ever Confused About How To End Your Meditation Sessions?

Now that you’ve started meditating, you may be wondering how to end your sessions. The way you use those final moments can make your practice more beneficial.

Headaches are a common symptom for beginners who jump off the cushion to check their phones or watch TV. Moving slower and shifting your attention gradually will be less jarring. Experiment with these steps for your body and mind so you can develop a routine that works for you.

Steps to Take with Your Body:

Scan all over. Review your body from head to toe. Notice any spots where you might feel sore or stiff. Give your neck a gentle massage or relax your brow.
Adjust your clothing. The room may have grown warmer or cooler while you were absorbed in your thoughts. Add a layer or take one off as needed.
Move in increments. Start out by wiggling your fingers and toes and then circle your wrists and ankles. Stand up slowly. Walk around the room for a few minutes. This will give you a chance to warm up and raise your metabolism rate back up.
Stretch gently. Perform easy stretches. Bending forward at the waist helps to balance prolonged sitting. Rotate your neck from side to side. Extend one arm at a time across your body to stretch your shoulders.
Practice breathing. On days when you have a little extra time, you can remain seated a few moments longer for breathing exercises. Try easing anxiety with a few long exhalations that are about twice as long your inhalations.
Eat and drink. On a practical level, you may need water and food because it’s usually preferable to meditate on an empty stomach. Go whip up a smoothie or a vegetable frittata.
Steps to Take with Your Mind:

Give yourself notice. Silently tell yourself when you’re ready to wrap things up. Spend a few minutes reviewing your thoughts, connecting with your feelings, and taking note of any topics you want to explore another time.
Work on your timing. How do you know when your meditation time is over? You can decide in advance how long your session will be. On the other hand, you may want to continue meditating for as long as you can maintain your concentration. Start out with about 5 minutes and work your way up.
Express thanks. Appreciate all that your body and mind do for you. Let them know that you’re grateful for the opportunity to meditate so that you can work on your personal growth.
Say a prayer. If meditating is part of your faith tradition, you probably have closing prayers you use regularly. You can also repeat any word or phrase that you find inspirational.
Assign homework. Use your meditation sessions to develop a specific plan of action. If you meditate about putting forth more effort, resolve to clean the garage or go jogging each morning. Make your goals challenging, but feasible.
Dedicate your efforts. Think of how authors dedicate their books. Devote the progress you make each session to your children or to increasing your patience.
Prioritize your activities. Apply the insights you develop during meditation to the rest of your life. Limit distractions and fill your hours with activities that are meaningful for you.
Making a smooth transition out of meditation and back to your daily routine will help you to realize the full benefits of your sessions. You’ll deepen your awareness and enjoy greater peace of mind.

Journal

2015-02-07T16:59:00.000-06:00

Solve Life’s Challenges With Your Journal

A journal can serve as a wonderful tool for not only recording your life, but also for helping to find solutions to life’s challenges.

Many people view a journal as the same thing as a diary, but there is a fundamental difference. A diary is used to record external events in your life, but a journal is to record your thoughts, feelings, and ideas. The difference can be profound.

Consider these benefits of keeping a journal:

1. A journal creates focus. Few of us really take the time to examine our lives. We commonly feel that we either don’t have the time, it won’t be beneficial, or it’s simply too uncomfortable. By regularly making an appointment with yourself to work with your journal, you can create the necessary focus to make positive changes in your life.

2. A journal forces you to see the truth. We’re all amazing at fooling and distracting ourselves, but when the truth is right before our eyes in black and white, there’s no place to hide.

3. A journal releases stress. There’s something cathartic about getting your thoughts on paper. Reducing your stress also creates a more effective state of mind for solving challenges.

4. A journal provides a means of measuring progress and growth. Have you ever seen a friend’s child and noticed how much they’ve grown? You wouldn’t notice the growth if you saw that child every day. Our own personal growth is similar.

· Small changes aren’t noticed when you’re exposed to them daily. A journal provides a way of looking back and seeing just how far you’ve come.

Use your journal to solve challenges:

1. Record your thoughts about the challenges you’re facing. Find a quiet place. What is the fundamental issue? How does it make you feel? How would your life improve if you were able to get this challenge fully under control?

2. Keep a list of possible solutions. Over the course of several days, your mind can provide dozens of possible solutions. Record them for future reference. Avoid being judgmental. Simply record the ideas that pop into your head.

3. Develop an action plan. Eventually, one idea will stand above the rest. If you find yourself torn between multiple options, do whatever it takes to make a decision. Even flipping a coin is better than remaining indecisive.

· Start your action plan with small steps that are simple and easy to accomplish. A little momentum can be invaluable.

4. Record your progress. Record the actions that you took each day to overcome the obstacle in your life. Also record your thoughts and feelings about your progress. If you can make yourself feel good about the process, success is much more likely.

· Acknowledge improvement, no matter how small.

5. Look for dissonance. Everyone is self-sabotaging to varying degrees. Record your thoughts and behaviors that are creating resistance to your progress. For example, if you need to lose 25 pounds but you’re eating ice cream every day, that’s a behavior that’s not supporting your goal.

· Create a list of solutions for dealing with your counterproductive habits.

6. Make journaling a daily habit. It’s easy to let things slip through the cracks and create even bigger challenges if you don’t write in your journal each day. Take advantage of this easy way to keep your life moving forward in a way that pleases you.

A journal can be an effective way to create positive change in your life. Even if you’re skeptical, give journaling a try for a few months and measure the improvement in your life. With regular effort, you’re certain to reap many positive rewards.

Find Your Joy at Work

2014-12-07T11:26:00.000-06:00

Feeling Blue at Work? Find Joy in Your Job With These Techniques

Despite what anyone tells you, it's rare to love a job! Your work can come with its own challenges, even though it helps to sustain you throughout life. And sometimes those challenges seem to pull the joy out of you. But you can change all that!

You can get more joy out of your job and return to having a positive career. By making a conscious effort, you'll soon start to view your job differently.

Try these strategies to find more joy at work:

1. Treat yourself for achieving goals. You probably find yourself dragging through day to day tasks. As they come up, you groan and unwillingly start to tackle them. But how different would it be if you start to treat yourself for completing tasks? Much different for sure!

· As you move through one task at a time, take a few moments of downtime for yourself. That may mean walking away from your desk or playing a few rounds of solitaire. Whatever it is, treat yourself to something you like.

· Bear in mind that it can become more of a crutch if it's overdone. Be conscious enough to characterize tasks well. Answering a ringing phone isn’t a task!

2. Choose to be positive. Human beings are the only creatures with the power of choice. If you use that power to encourage positive thinking, your job can seem more bearable.

· Each morning, express thanks for waking up to a new day. Truly be grateful for that opportunity and recognize it as a blessing. Focus on that blessing throughout your day at work. It's unlikely that you'll take your job for granted.

· Each unpleasant task at work has some positive element to it. Consider the fact that each task you do gives you more work experience. Later on, you can use that experience to land the job of your dreams!

3. Focus on success. Just like many other things in life, time is best spent focusing on where you want to go. For everything you do at work, your aim is to complete it, and do it well. Try the approach of focusing on the successful end result instead of the journey.

· Consider how well your next evaluation is bound to look if you are successful in everything you do. The thought of positive recognition is enough to give you some amount of joy.

· Forget the fact that it's not your dream job. Make it the job that you knocked out the park. Make it the stepping stone to a job more aligned with your professional desires.

4. Become a mentor. Sometimes experiencing work blues is worth it when you impart knowledge to someone else. Is there an intern at your office? Or do you know someone else in need of professional guidance? Why not become their mentor?

· Helping someone else succeed can bring you satisfaction. What you're gaining through daily experience can make a positive change in someone else's life. Knowing that is victory in itself!

It's difficult to find scenarios that always work in your favor. A lot of times, you're left doing the best with what you have. But that isn’t such a bad concept if you make an effort to find the joy in what you do.

Make today the day that you find joy in your job!

Take a Break

2014-12-06T14:25:00.000-06:00

Feeling Overwhelmed? Take Back Control with this 6-Step Process

Oh, how trying the stresses of life can be! Having situations that affect your peace of mind can be challenging. And sometimes you feel like you've gotten way more than you can handle. Yet still, you find a way to keep going.

It's great when you can find the determination to keep going. But are you doing so to your own detriment? Perhaps the way you're responding isn’t always the best.

Coping mechanisms help to keep you in the game. But after a while, you may end up crashing. The most beneficial approach involves using well thought-out strategies to keep you in control.

Try this process to respond to an especially challenging situation:

1. Stop in your tracks. If you feel overwhelmed now, it’s likely to get even worse if you keep going the way you are now! Stop right where you are and accept the situation for what it is.

· Look back at what has happened up until this point in time. Can you identify the reasons behind your downfall? Make a note of them.

2. Embrace your shortcomings. Do you have shortcomings that prevented you from staying on top of things? Be honest with yourself when trying to identify them. It's the only way you'll be able to move on to resolving the situation.

· Whatever you've identified as your shortcomings, accept and embrace them. It's pointless allowing them to bring your mood down. You're already overwhelmed. The last thing you need to do is put yourself down.

3. Avoid excuses. Even though you feel overwhelmed, the last thing you want to do is blame it on something or somebody else. Avoid overlooking yourself as the main factor behind your current situation.

· It's easy in stressful situations to refuse accountability. Just the tension alone is enough to drive your mind in crazy directions. Just accept it for what it is, even if it means coming face to face with your shortcomings.

4. Open up to others. Share your feelings with someone you can confide in. Simply sharing can often help to ease some of the stress off your shoulders.

· Tell the whole story. Allow the person to understand your highs and lows. Let them see how your strengths got you this far. But also share what you think you could have done differently.

5. Organize an approach. Now that you've offloaded, you'll have a clearer mind to organize an approach. You've stopped at this point for a reason. Now’s your chance to change direction and pull yourself out of this rut.

· Now that you've figured out what went wrong, try to tackle those things first. You'll want to prevent those things from happening again.

6. Surround yourself with positive people. It's sometimes difficult to take on challenges on your own. As much as you hate to admit it, there are others better at some things than you are! Embrace them and get the support you need to manage stressful situations.

· Use the strengths of trustworthy people to get you over the hump. Be clear about the role you want them to play. Handing over responsibility can be tough. But be mature enough to understand that it doesn’t take away from your own abilities.

Being in over your head isn’t a death sentence. In fact, it's a perfect opportunity to be creative in your approach. Once you identify an effective approach, you can expect to handle situations more confidently.

Give yourself the chance to be in control. With positive strategies, you'll be able to take matters into your own hands and turn them around in no time!

Thanksgiving Crafts

2014-11-23T08:38:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday! What a spiritual renewal to take a day to reflect over the past year about just how good God has been to you and your family, to give you harvest and shelter, health and hope. To get the most out of this joyous occasion, make some holiday crafts with your children. These days, Thanksgiving often gets squeezed out by Hallowe’en’s spooky decorations and the lights and gala of Christmas. With the following holiday crafts, your home can be decorated for this quieter but important celebration.

Turkeys are a natural choice for decorations. A familiar project at this time of year is for a child to trace around her hand and make the resulting drawing into a turkey. The thumb is the head and the fingers are the tail feathers all displayed. While many of the turkeys that are raised for food are now the domestic white variety, the turkeys eaten by the Pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving were the wild brown ones. The tail feathers on a wild turkey are brown, but they are iridescent. catching light and appearing to be multi-colored. This is why children color the tail feathers in bright colors.

The turkey’s head has a wattle under the beak. This is a vertical flap of loose skin that is red colored. Be sure to draw this in order to make the hand turkey look like a turkey. Add skinny legs and bird feet. When done, the children can cut out the turkeys and hang them on the wall. It’s really cute to make a whole flock of these turkeys in the sizes of all the hands in the family. The little hand shapes are particularly sweet.

Another nice turkey decoration to make when making Thanksgiving holiday crafts is a turkey door decoration. Make a brown construction paper body and head of a turkey. Now make a large number of colored feather shapes. Each family member writes on a feather something he or she is thankful for before attaching as part of the turkey’s tail. Repeat until all the feathers are used, and hang the turkey on the front door to greet visitors with a message of gratitude. Make a sign to accompany the turkey that says “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good!” or simply “Be thankful!” or “We’re thankful for you!” or whatever you like.

Children love making construction paper chains. To further decorate the house for Thanksgiving, let them make a paper chain in fall colors as one of their holiday crafts. Using 9 by 12 inch construction paper, cut the paper in half across the long side and cut the halves into one inch thick six inch long strips. Use a stapler to attach the ends of the strip into a circle. Loop the next strip into the circle and staple it. Continue the process alternating colors of brown, red, yellow, and orange. When the chains are long, you can drap them along the ceiling or stair rail. If you don’t make the door turkey, the children can write something they’re thankful for on each strip of paper before adding it to the chain.

Thanksgiving is too nice a holiday to let the other more commercial holidays crowd it out. By making holiday crafts to decorate the home for Thanksgiving, you can keep this day special, too. The extended family, aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc., will be pleased to see the holiday crafts the young ones have made to decorate the house and make it cheerful for their visit.

9 Steps to Living a Better Life

2014-11-14T16:04:00.000-06:00

9 Secrets to Living a Meaningful Life

The hustle and bustle of daily life can sweep us away from what really means the most to us. It’s up to each of us to figure out how to live a personally fulfilling life. Although much of your life is shared with others, you can still carve out your own space for a rich, meaningful life.

Take action now to live a life that you love:

Clarify what matters to you. How you spend your time largely determines what’s important to you. If you say your family is at the top of your list, do you spend the bulk of your spare time with them? When you know for sure who and what matters most to you, then that’s where you want to focus your time and energy.
Stay in the moment. If you’re planting flowers, think about packing the earth well and digging the hole deeply enough. Remind yourself to water them immediately afterward. Regardless of what you’re involved in, keep your mind focused.

Even when you’re washing the pots and pans, you can concentrate on having nice, hot water and shining the outside of the pans the way you like them.

Say what you mean and mean what you say. Do your words carry importance and honesty, along with kindness and care? Avoid mincing words. Get to the point, but remember to take the other person’s feelings into consideration. When your discussions contain subjects of interest and heartfelt feelings, it’s meaningful for you and the listener.
Find your passion. What gets you interested, excited, or fascinated? Has there ever been a topic that you think about all day long to the point where you can hardly stand it? If so, follow your passion. Make it an important part of your life as often as you can.

If it’s golf, play it as often as you can. If your passion is working with children, then pursue it, whether it’s through working at a nursery school, becoming a school teacher, or serving as the neighborhood babysitter. Make it happen.

Worry less about what others think. Pay more attention to what you think. If someone isn’t a relevant player in your personal life, then what they believe about you is irrelevant. What you believe about yourself is what matters.

Use your emotional fortitude in ways that make your life better. Ensure that your opinion of yourself is great!

Instead of complaining, accept the situation or take action. If what you’re upset about is out of your control, it might be time to just accept it. However, if it’s something that’s within your power to change, take action. Complaining is a waste of your precious time. Focus on problem-solving instead.
Accept responsibility for your life. If you’re unhappy, there’s no reason to blame your parents, spouse, or boss. Step up and make some decisions to alter what troubles you.

You are the captain of your own ship. Figure out the course you want to take and then stay on it.

Refuse to criticize. Focus on assessing your own life instead. Notice the good qualities in others. Making positive changes in yourself is where your power lies.
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” Mahatma Gandhi, a great man of peace, first said this quote. Make a difference in your own life and the lives of others. You’ll absolutely love yourself for it. Others will love what you’re doing, too. Volunteer. Join a club. Get involved!

An enriching life is here for the taking. When your focus is clear, you can then expend your energy on the people and things that matter in your life. Isn't it time to begin the journey toward a life filled with positivity and meaning? You deserve it!

The Path to Respect

2014-10-05T14:30:00.001-05:00

The Complete Guide to Giving and Getting Respect

Respect makes our relationships run more smoothly. Feeling appreciated puts us at ease and helps us to bond more closely. We share a sincere regard for each other. We know that our welfare matters, and we treat each other with courtesy and fairness.

Fortunately, our actions can help us to gain more respect. Giving and getting respect amount to much the same thing. The more you give, the more you’re likely to receive in return.

These suggestions can help you enjoy more respect from others and feel more valued.

Giving Respect to Others

1. Focus on your motivation. Know that being respectful is worthwhile in itself regardless of how others respond. All creatures possess great value. You’re correct whenever you honor them. Your example may inspire them to do the same.

2. Listen attentively. Respect begins when we understand each other. Pay close attention to what people say and do. Concentrate on the other person’s message rather than preparing your response. Take turns talking.

3. Count your blessings. It’s easier to think well of people when you remember all the services they provide for you. Spend a few minutes reflecting on all you get from others.

4. Accommodate others. Try to make joint decisions about family vacations or dividing up assignments at work. Take everyone’s needs into consideration. Give their suggestions a chance to succeed.

5. Repair conflicts. You’re bound to run into disagreements sometimes. Face them head on. Negotiate in good faith. Apologize for your part in the situation and aim for an agreement that is fair to all the parties involved.

6. Evaluate your closest relationships. Respect often matters most when it comes to our spouse, children, and other loved ones. Step back so you can recognize their autonomy.

Getting Respect from Others

1. Honor your commitments. Keep your word. It’s better to avoid telling a client that their kitchen will be completed in a month if you know it often takes 60 days or more.

2. Think before speaking. Do your research before you comment on a subject. Ask yourself if you’re adding anything valuable to a discussion. Imagine how you would feel if you were on the receiving end of your own feedback and choose your words accordingly.

3. Communicate directly. Being straightforward sometimes requires courage, but the rewards are worth it. Ask for what you need. Extend the same opportunity to others.

4. Learn to say no. Turn down requests graciously if you believe they are unreasonable or you have other commitments. Making the best use of your time is shrewd, not selfish.

5. Decline being taken for granted. If your generosity seems wasted, you may be right. Be selective about how you give away your time, money, and other resources. Support charities that welcome your offer to volunteer. Exchange hospitality with friends who invite you back.

6. Acknowledge your rights. As much as possible, give because you want to rather than out of a feeling of obligation or a desire to please others. The results will be much more consistent and satisfying.

7. Recognize your power. We all have immense power in the sense that we can use our abilities to actually make the world a better place. Let your influence brighten someone else’s day by showing them that you recognize their dignity and worth.

If you sometimes feel like respect is lacking in modern society, try offering more of it. Everyone is worthy of respect, and your efforts to respect others will enhance your own life.

Letting Go of Ego

2014-08-17T11:45:00.001-05:00

Are You Being Guided by Your Intuition or Your Ego?

It’s not always easy to tell if our choices are coming from the right place. However, if you follow your intuition, your life is likely to be enjoyable and meaningful. Follow your ego and you might be successful in many ways, but you’re likely to find yourself wondering why you’re not as happy as you think you should be.

Learning to determine whether you’re being guided by intuition or ego can make a huge difference in your life. While there are no hard and fast rules to make the distinction, there are tendencies that can serve as a guide.

Consider these differences:

1. Ego-based decisions are grounded in fear and self-preservation. If you decide to go to medical school because it will bring you financial security, that’s ego. If you decide to not ask out the beautiful woman that lives on the corner because you're afraid, that’s ego.

2. Ego-based decisions typically have emotion connected to them. A choice made from a place of intuition just feels “right” and often comes out of left field. You might be mowing the grass and be hit with the idea of becoming a dog breeder. If you starting arguing with yourself, and telling yourself it's a terrible idea, that's ego fighting back.

3. Ego-based decisions consider external results. Are you writing a book in order to have a bestseller, or are you writing a book because you’re fascinated with the idea of writing a book? Are you taking an action to gain certain results, or does the action itself provide sufficient satisfaction?

4. Ego-based decisions involve rationalization. Your ego is wonderful at convincing you that its choice is the right one. “I’ll never get that job. Imagine how disappointed I’ll feel when it doesn’t work out. People like me are destined to only be supervisors, but there’s nothing wrong with that. I can still have a decent life.”

· It’s really just a rationalization based on fear – fear of success or fear of failure.

· The ego tries to justify itself with facts, figures, and logic. Intuition doesn’t require these tricks to compel you. If you’re using logic to convince yourself of a course of action, you can bet that’s your ego squawking.

5. Intuition doesn’t judge. A thought or decision arising from intuition doesn’t involve judgment statements about right or wrong, good or bad. Intuitive thoughts feel calm, relaxed, and peaceful. Intuitive decisions. feel right on a universal level.

6. Is the expected gratification coming from interal forces or is it external forces. Would you make the same choice if no one would ever know? Would you purchase that BMW if no one ever knew you owned it? Or do you simply love German automobiles and love the idea of owning that type of car? Are you driven by money and admiration or by personal satisfaction?

While the ego can be very limiting, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s wrong. Remember that the ego’s motivation is largely based on self-preservation. Your ego believes that it has your best interests at heart. Ignoring the ego can be challenging. It uses fear to influence you. It’s only natural to avoid fear and seek comfort.

The trick is to realize when fear is holding you back from something bigger and better. Sometimes fear is keeping you from doing something foolish. Think before choosing which voice to follow: use these tips to help you make a decision that will bring you true happiness.

5 Ways to Have More Blessings

2014-08-11T14:01:00.002-05:00

5 Great Ways to Make Room for New Blessings in Your Life

Does it sometimes feel like life's blessings are passing you by? Do you feel left out?

It's easy to feel a little cheated when you look at how much your friends and family members have.

Their happiness seems to know no bounds. And every venture they undertake always yields success.

Some people seem to kmow how to make success look easy.

You deserve all those blessings too. And you're more than able to get them. All it takes is a litle knowledge of how to make room for them in your life, and practice.

Once you get into the habit of using these tips, you can expect to see things turn around in your life:

1. Let go of grudges. One of the easiest ways to prevent yourself from receiving blessings is to hold on to grudges. Avoiding forgiveness only clouds your heart with negative energy. Pretty soon, even the blessings in your life seem like burdens to you.

· Give it a try. Make an honest attempt at forgiving your co-worker for painting you in a bad light. As hard as it is, you'll instantly feel lighter when you allow yourself to forgive.

· If an issue is beyond resolution, make up your mind to take the high road. Agree to disagree and move on to better things.

2. Be kind to others. You can always rely on the fact that kindness to others results in kindness coming back. What you throw out to those around you has a funny way of returning! Make every effort to be kind today.

· There are many opportunities to be kind each day. How about that beggar on the corner? Avoid holding your head straight when you pass. Smile and say good morning as you hand him a few bucks.

· Commit to only saying kind words about others today. Let this apply to even the people who have offended you.

3. Acknowledge small blessings. Sure, you have your mind set on great blessings. But have you taken the time to express gratitude for the small ones? Even though they're small, they're valuable. Avoid overlooking them if you want to continue receiving them!

· Being able to see the sunrise each day is a blessing in itself! Consider that many people cannot enjoy that luxury.

4. Work at maximum effort. Everything you are tasked to do is worth doing well. The onus is on you to produce the best quality work you can. And it's also your responsibility to put in maximum effort. The rewards are sure to come when you do.

· Ignore the fact that there hasn’t been a pay increase for the last 6 months. Keep working anyway. When you got the job, you committed to performing at a certain standard.

· Stick to your commitment. You'll be rewarded with awesome blessings at the right time.

5. Get rid of baggage. Baggage can come in the form of sadness or depression. Perhaps you just left an unhealthy relationship. Or you're at odds with your oldest friend. Whatever it is, let it go so you can focus on being a happier, healthier you.

· Wallowing in sadness may feel good now. But consider how it's affecting your ability to see great opportunities.

· If all you can see is darkness, you'll likely only receive negativity in your life. Free yourself of the weight of baggage.

As you allow yourself to implement these changes, you can expect wonderful blessings to flow. Take the time to build your pool of blessings. You have the key to open the door to the best that life has in store!

Letting Go Of Excusses

2014-08-10T08:03:00.001-05:00

Now that the new year is upon us, some of us will be making New Years resolutions. Many will fail to complete them. Why? Because some of us have an excuse for everything. the reason is though we like the idea of change, change scares us. Sometimes it takes a really big event to motivate us to change.

So, if you really want o make some changed in the new year, first make a commitment to yourself to stick with it. Make some real goals. Write them down, and date them. We will talk more on this in coming posts.

Now let's look at some of the excuses we make..

Top 6 Excuses That Limit Your Success

Everyone wants to have a beach body, but no one wants to diet or workout. Being successful isn’t automatic. It requires concentrated effort and action.

Many of us have a series of excuses that we can pull out of a hat at a moment’s notice. There’s always one that seems to fit the bill perfectly. This is done largely to protect ourselves and to justify our current circumstances.

Are any of these excuses holding you back from success?

1. “I don’t know how.” This common excuse gives you permission to not even try. However, this excuse simply doesn’t hold water. At no time in the history of mankind has there been so much information available. Want to start a charity? There are hundreds of books on the subject. Need to lose 100 lbs? There are thousands of resources available.

· One of the best ways to figure out how to do something is to find a qualified mentor. Another effective option is to simply try and then adjust your approach based on your results.

2. “I’m afraid.” This is perhaps the most socially acceptable answer. Who hasn’t been afraid? But there is very little to legitimately fear in our modern times. In most circumstances, you’re not in danger of being eaten by a lion or falling off a cliff.

· Most of our fears are socially based and have no real consequences. Being afraid isn’t a valid excuse 99% of the time.

· Would you rather be successful or protect your ego?

3. “I don’t have enough time.” Do you really believe this? Nearly all of us waste time on activities that provide no real value, including watching TV, internet surfing, and a host of other time wasters.

· You know in your heart you could make the time for something that was truly important to you.

4. “I don’t have enough money.” This is another common excuse, but there is usually a way to work around a lack of financial resources. For example, if you’d like to learn to play the piano but can’t afford one, you could:

· Find a free piano on Craigslist

· Pick up an inexpensive digital piano in a pawnshop

· Ask a local church or school to use their piano after hours

· Locate a piano you can use at your local college

5. “It’s too late for me.” It’s too late? A person climbed Mount Everest in his 80’s. People have gone back to medical school in their 60’s. What would you like to do?

· Getting a late start might be less convenient and more challenging, but there’s nothing wrong with that. It means that you’ll only take on the challenges that are really important to you. That could be a good thing.

· To be fair, there are a few things that require an earlier start than others. You’re not likely to play in the NBA if you take up basketball in your 30’s. But you could be a coach or work in the front office.

6. “It’s too hard.” Some endeavors are certainly more competitive than others. But claiming that something is “too hard” is really just another way of admitting that you’re afraid.

· The truth is that people with limited resources and talent can still be extremely successful.

· We tend to imagine the competition is much tougher than it really is. The average person doesn’t have a lot of control over himself. He’s not truly committed. Those with motivation and stamina are really the ones who succeed.

People that are successful on a regular basis tend to have the fewest excuses. How could it be any other way?

Those with excuses are able to justify not taking action. However, no action equals no results. So put aside your excuses and go after what you truly want. You’ll be glad you did!

Mood Food

2014-08-10T07:43:00.005-05:00

Top 4 Food Strategies to Lift Your Mood

Are you feeling as chipper as you’d like? When negative feelings have taken hold of you, you might have tried adjusting sleeping patterns and ramping up workouts to combat their ill effects. However, it’s likely that they didn’t fully adjust your mood.

That's probably because you overlooked one major factor. How and what you eat can have a significant impact on your mood each day. And while you're busy eating high-sugar foods to "comfort" yourself, you're doing more harm than good.

Adjusting from a cranky mood to a cheerful one is actually more about what you feed your body than anything else. By making wise, healthy food choices, you can expect your mood to improve almost immediately.

Use these food strategies to uplift you and heighten your positive feelings:

1. Cut the sugar. Be warned. Sugar is the enemy of stable, positive moods! You'll almost always get a rush from a sugar binge. But you can almost always expect the crash that comes when it hits your blood stream, too!

· Sugar sometimes helps when there are other factors affecting your energy level. But avoid turning to it as your source of energy.

· Remember that sugary foods have other negative effects apart from the crash. Excess sugar is stored in your body and puts you at risk for weight gain, skin reactions, and even diabetes.

2. Increase intake of nutrient-rich foods. While many nutrient-rich foods might not be as "exciting" as sugar, they're better for you. They help your bodily functions perform optimally and actually elevate your mood.

· Folate, thiamine, and magnesium are believed to heighten your mood. Research has shown that these minerals positively impact those with depression.

· Although you may not be suffering from depression, you can likely expect the minerals to work wonders for your mood over time.

· Choose foods like lentils, leafy greens, pistachios, and pumpkin seeds as great sources of these minerals.

3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Try breaking your arsenal of healthy foods into smaller meals. It might take more effort to have five meals instead of three, but your results will make your effort worthwhile.

· Larger meals are harder for your body to process. Your metabolism slows down after consumption of a large meal. As a result, you'll likely feel sluggish.

· Sluggishness doesn’t always lead to a bad mood. But lacking the energy to be productive can result in a negative outcome. That can, in turn, affect your mood!

4. Stay hydrated. You've heard lots of stories about water doing wonders for your body. But you probably didn’t know that lack of it affects your mood. Believe it or not, water may be the key to addressing that lingering bad mood you've been in.

· Neglecting to stay hydrated daily can lead to uncomfortable side effects. In most cases, a mildly dehydrated person experiences headaches, fatigue, tension, and anxiety.

· These things definitely affect your mood, and you'll quickly become the person nobody wants to be around!

· Dehydration also impacts concentration, reasoning, and alertness. It's very easy to get frustrated with yourself when you're far from being on the ball.

It's always important to consider the impact of diet. Remember that your body performs in accordance with what you give it. Give it a healthy selection of foods so it has the best chance to keep you in a positive state of mind!

How Giving Leads to More Happiness

2014-08-10T07:43:00.002-05:00

The Social Giving Miracle for Those Who Want More Happiness

Being generous makes us happier when it includes a social dimension. Our best experiences come from giving to people we know and having the opportunity to enjoy doing things together.

That’s the conclusion from recent studies about the emotional impact of charitable donations. The rewards have more to do with the way we give rather than the size of our donations. We feel better when we have direct contact with the recipients rather than mailing a check or using a website. A similar dynamic occurs when we volunteer.

You may already believe that it’s better to give than receive. Now, you can use this knowledge to make giving even better by maximizing the social connections.

Giving to People You Know

1. Nurture your loved ones. Start with your family and close friends. Hand out sincere compliments. Celebrate their victories. Surprise them by cooking their favorite dinner or taking out the garbage even when it is someone else’s turn.

2. Reach out to your neighbors. Keep an eye out for newcomers. Invite them over for coffee and cake. Bring over a batch of homemade cookies or fresh herbs from your garden. Share leads on where to find the best dry cleaner and lawn service.

3. Support local charities. Research organizations that are doing good work in your own neighborhood. Visit a local animal shelter or after school program. Ask them what resources they need most.

4. Practice random acts of kindness. Brighten the day for a stranger. Leave a generous tip at the ice cream parlor. Carry an extra pen you can give away when needed. Let someone with fewer items get ahead of you in line at the grocery store.

5. Pick up the tab. Instead of handing out gift certificates, invite people to join you for coffee or a movie. You’ll spread more cheer and have a chance to get to know people better.

6. Write thank you letters. We all like to receive recognition. Present a heartfelt message to anyone who does something nice for you. Face to face contact will make your appreciation more vivid than if you send an email.

7. Develop pure intentions. Prevent disappointments by giving without any expectation of returns. Take pleasure in your own good deeds.

Doing Charitable Activities Together

1. Volunteer as a group. Bring your family and friends along for community service work. Browse online clearinghouses where you can find group projects.

2. Travel to new places. Incorporate meaningful work into your vacations. Extend your network and pick up new skills.

3. Serve on boards. Ask about vacancies on the boards of organizations where you volunteer. It’s a great way to demonstrate your capacity for leadership, work on your communication skills, and even enhance your résumé.

4. Coordinate a workplace campaign. Ask for suggestions about what causes your colleagues want to support. Organize a fundraiser where people can relax and mingle like a pancake breakfast or talent contest.

5. Join a club. Check out the relevant committees at the local chapter of your professional association. Propose a special project to your book club or running group.

6. Perpetuate the cycle. Studies also show that people are more likely to keep giving when social interactions make their first experience rewarding. You’ll be welcoming more accomplishments and joy into your future.

Philanthropy enriches our lives and strengthens our communities. Reach out to others while you support causes you care about. You’ll have a more positive impact on the world and enjoy greater satisfaction.

Career

2014-08-10T07:37:00.002-05:00

Discover How Being Unconventional Can Advance Your Career

Would you ever wear red sneakers to the office? A recent study found that dressing down can sometimes help people get ahead. It also raises larger questions about how conformity affects our wellbeing.

Harvard researchers conducted a number of experiments to see if violating the dress code could make people seem more prestigious. It worked. Students assumed that a consultant who wore red shoes while teaching a business seminar probably charged higher fees and had more upscale clients.

Keep in mind that this is only effective if people think you’re acting deliberately, and you’re in a setting like an Ivy League school that suggests you have significant clout.

On the other hand, conformity is an issue that comes up everywhere you go. Consider how being a little unconventional could bring you more happiness and success.

Being Unconventional in General

1. Think for yourself. To keep things running smoothly in the workplace or anywhere you interact with others, you may want to adapt your conduct but hold onto your beliefs. You can fill out lengthy forms for office supplies until others are ready to simplify the process.

2. Celebrate diversity. The disadvantages of conformity can be minimized by being inclusive and respectful of others. Wish the best for people even if they make different choices than you.

3. Take risks. Dare to innovate. Mistakes provide valuable learning opportunities. Be the first to try a new time management app or propose an unusual marketing approach.

4. Practice active listening. You can have more confidence in your decisions when you take the time to understand the people around you. Pay attention to their needs and expectations.

5. Try new things. Take a break from ordering the usual lunch special to try a new item on the menu. Ask the summer interns to make at least 3 recommendations on making the training process more effective.

6. Question assumptions. Studies show that most people tend to think they conform less than they really do. Evaluate your true motives.

7. Build support. As you advocate for changes, team up with like-minded people. Persuade others by showing them what they have to gain.

Being Unconventional in Specific Situations

1. Bend the dress code. Office wear evolves. Even if red sneakers are out of the question, you may find that black leather sports shoes are acceptable and comfortable.

2. Check facts. It’s common for people to doubt their own conclusions when others think differently. Research your position before you let yourself be swayed. You may confirm that you were correct. In any case, you’ll be better prepared for the next project.

3. Encourage children’s questions. Conformity is part of how we learn to speak and feed ourselves. On the other hand, give your children the opportunity to strengthen their own reasoning. They’ll be better equipped to deal with social pressures when they join the workforce.

4. Accept accountability. It’s easy to doubt how much impact individual actions will have on big issues. Take satisfaction in knowing that you’re doing your part to fulfill your company’s mission and make life better for your customers. It may inspire you to go beyond your job description.

5. Stand up for principles. Above all, be yourself at work as much as possible. You’ll enjoy greater peace of mind and find it easier to connect with your colleagues.

It may be okay to go along with the crowd as long as you’re true to your values. Listen to your authentic self and find the balance that works for you. You’ll increase your chances of developing a rewarding career and leading a more meaningful life.

Achieve Balance

2014-08-06T07:30:00.000-05:00

Achieving balance in my life is important to me.

Even though I sometimes feel overwhelmed with everything I want to accomplish, I still aim to enjoy the day. So, I do everything possible to seek and find perfect balance in my life.

I work hard each day to do my best at work., but when I finish at the end of the day, I leave work behind.

I am careful about committing to extra hours at work because I know that doing so means I give up time with friends, family, or “me” time.

At home, my energy is divided between those I love, taking care of my home, and finding my own inner peace to deal with the stresses of life.

My social life and friendships are also high on my list of priorities.

I use my calendar to schedule in time for work projects wisely. i balance home tasks, and social activities. I block out an hour or two weekly to enjoy my own personal time however I choose.

Today, I know I can experience the joys of multiple aspects of my life, all in balance. My life brings me everything I want.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I feel like my life is balanced right now? What areas am I short-changing?

2. How much do I focus on achieving balance in my life?

How can I ensure I have a healthy balance among my

The Universal Plan

2014-08-05T08:25:00.000-05:00

I believe the universe has a plan for me.

I am free from worry regarding the future. I trust in the plan the universe has for me. It is my responsibility to rise to the occasion and make wise decisions. I am required to take action.

I am filled with confidence that I am on the right path. Each day, the plan for my life becomes clearer.

I notice all the little things that others might dismiss as coincidence. To me, they are subtle signs that everything is as it should be. I find great peace and comfort in this.

In challenging times, I strive to stay focused. I believe challenges are created to help me learn new skills or steer me in the right direction. When faced with obstacles, I immediately start looking for the meaning.

As the plan for my life unfolds, I become more excited about the future and wonder what may happen next. I find satisfaction in all of it.

I have little time to worry because I am too busy living my life.

Today, I am looking for signposts to guide my decisions. I am open to all the universe has in store for me. I believe the universe has a plan for me and I am living my life to the fullest in accordance with that plan.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Am I open to all the possibilities that the universe has planned for me?

2. In the past, have I missed golden opportunities?

3. How can I prepare myself to notice when opportunities come my way?

Get Recharged

2014-08-04T11:24:00.000-05:00

The Daily Reflection:

(a special note about this one: family and loved ones does not necessarily mean blood kin. Your family is who you choose them to be.)

Spending time with my loved ones recharges me.

Spending time with my family and friends restores my energy. My loved ones breathe new life into my days.

My family and friends help me to feel connected. I enjoy giving my time and support to the people close to me. I may cook a special dinner or give them a ride to the airport.

Quality time with my loved ones increases my ability to deal with stress. I bounce back from disappointments faster. I feel supported and loved by my friends.

When I am with my loved ones, I find myself smiling and laughing more. Movies and TV shows sem funnier when we watch them together. Being with loved ones can make difficult situations more bearable.

Most of all, it is easier to be my true self. I embrace myself with all my flaws and strengths. I receive validation. I am loved for who I am.

Sometimes we just hang out. We may do a load of laundry or watch a sunset. Other times we talk about anything from car troubles to our spiritual beliefs. I also ensure I spend time listening. I want to understand their views and experiences.

We share chores and adventures. Cleaning out the garage becomes more fun when we do it together as a family. Vacations become more exciting with a friend along for the sightseeing and scuba diving.

Today, I give thanks for my loved ones. Their presence fills me with energy and strength.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. How can I make more time in my schedule to spend with loved ones?

2. How can I stay in touch with family and friends who live far away?

3. What are some activities I enjoy sharing with family and friends?

Choose to Live

2014-08-03T08:50:00.000-05:00

Here is the Daily Reflection:

I choose to live my life to the fullest.

I understand that life is short and unpredictable. Therefore, I bring all the joy, excitement, and passion I can into my life. This is a way of life that I find fulfilling, and it makes sense to me.

When faced with multiple options, I choose the one that excites me the most. The choice that fills me with passion and awe is the only option for me. I am committed to getting the most from my life.

I am taking steps that free from hesitation, worry, and self-consciousness. This allows me to take on bigger challenges with confidence as I move forward in my life.

By living this way, each day is interesting and exciting. I wake up with a sense of enthusiasm. Life is better when getting out of bed is easy. I love my life!

I am free from concerning myself with the expectations of others. I have my life to live and they are free to live theirs as they see fit.

Today, I strive to live my life to the maximum. I make choices that support my passions and serve as a good example to others.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What is the one thing I would like to do that I have never done?

2. Have I been living my life too cautiously and conservatively?

3. How would my life change if I chose to live it to the fullest?

Finding Fullfillment

2014-07-26T08:42:00.002-05:00

Today I am starting a series on self improvement.

Below is today's manta. It works like the law of attraction. They are called Reflections.

My personal interests fulfill me.

I love making spare time each day for my hobbies and interests. My hobbies and activities bring me many benefits. They relax and energize me all at the same time.

Spending time doing my hobbies helps me stay in touch with my thoughts and feelings. I can work out stress and solve challenges while enjoying many of my hobbies.

Doing research on my favorite topics fuels my passion. When I read a book or seek out online material related to a favored hobby, my creative juices begin to flow. I think of new things I can do with the new knowledge gained.

I find it particularly enlightening to discover different ways of doing the physical activities that I enjoy. Watching a television show.

When I do the things I love, I am a healthier, happier person. I feel stronger, as if I can confront any troublesome situation and come out ahead of the game.

Today, I plan to spend at least an hour doing things I love to do. It is fulfilling to engage in activities that bring me comfort and happiness. Taking part in my beloved hobbies makes my life better in many ways.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What are my favorite interests, hobbies, and activities?

2. How often do I engage in the things I love to do?

3. How can I work more time into my schedule for my personal interests?

Using Intuition

2014-07-26T08:40:00.002-05:00

I trust my intuition to guide me.

I have the ultimate source of guidance and inspiration available to me at all times: my intuition.

My intuition is my sub-conscious mind trying to communicate with me. I may experience this as a “little voice,” emotions, or feelings in my body. It is my job to listen carefully so I can make smart choices.

My intuition is very wise. It has the same experiences that I do. It knows me completely. It is always trying to help and protect me. I am fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and loving advisor.

When I fail to listen to my intuition, I am likely to face bigger challenges than the ones that first appear.

However, I avoid following my intuition blindly. Sometimes it can be overprotective and limit me.

The voice of my intuition is easily muffled by anything that distracts my attention, so I spend a few quiet moments alone each day to foster better communication. My connection with my intuition is improving each day.

Today, I am open to receiving all messages from my intuition. My intuition provides great advice most of the time, so I trust it to guide me.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. When should I have listened to my intuition but did not?

2. What would happen if I let my intuition make all of my decisions?

3. Why do I resist my intuition?