“Life is not a continuum of pleasant choices, but of inevitable problems that call for strength, determination, and hard work.”
- Indian Proverb
A couple of days off from writing due to a water line break at my home. It is interesting that life will some times interrupt your enjoyment. Of course I could bore you with the details but I will try to pass along something that you can learn from.
Late afternoon on Friday the inevitable 'wet' spot in the ground surfaced. One will try to deny the existence of it, hoping that the problem will go away. Many of us have the tendency to face life this way. Ignore it, close your eyes and just maybe it doesn't exist. No such luck this time, out came the shovel to start digging dirt and mud.
Part of me felt while digging that I was back on the farm. Cleaning out hog pens shoveling that which fills most hog pens. A wonderful way to spend an evening but the birght spot being that I found the water line right away. Found the leak, a mad dash to the hardware store and the leak was fixed...for fifteen minutes...another leak sprung.
Murphys Law of course dictated the moment, for where one leak appears there will always be one more. This water pipe was made of plastic and nearly twenty years old, best to replace the entire length down to the water meter. Only 75 feet from house to meter, between two trees and through hard Georgia clay.
The digging would begin the next day with two of my sons working hard on a three inch wide trench. The good news is we only need to dig down about one and a half feet, a small positive in the miserable heat and humidity. I was proud of how they worked and it is the first time I have ever seen someone bend a Pickaxe. But how were we ever going to get through this. The area of tree roots seemed almost unbearable.
“Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did.” - Newt Gingrich
So why not call in a plumber or go rent a trenching machine? Well, I am my father's son and you can save money by putting in some hard work, the money saved is worth much more. It took a lot of thought and self encouragement to continue and complete the trench. A new water pipe, no worries of another leak due to an old pipe. Time with two of my sons watching their hard efforts and physically, it was good exercise for me.
The job finished and the yard landscaped, the feeling of accomplishment was good. The same can be said of anything you do in life. When faced with an obstacle that seems too great to overcome, keep pushing through. You will find it very rewarding on the other side.
“Life grants nothing to us mortals without hard work.”
- Horace (Ancient Roman Poet. 65 BC-8 BC)
Monday, July 31, 2006
Thursday, July 27, 2006
CAN
Today I would like to pass along a link to an inspirational story of what one person would do for another. A story that tells of the true love a father has for a son.
Each of us know that we would go to great lengths for our children. Each of us have a huge place in our hearts for each of our children. And in this life, our human spirit is to lift those around us.
To show this particular father is not meant to over shadow what you may do in life. It is intended to provide us an example of the many things we can be. There are other great stories of people doing extraordinary things. Taking a step beyond the average is something that is in each of you. Go beyond the average, go beyond the ordinary and make a change in someones life.
Go to YouTube to see the CAN video. The pair call themselves Team Hoyt and you can read more about them on their website. It is a very inspiring video that can help move you to change as well.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Self Acceptance
Self Acceptance - embrace all that you are, who you are and what you are.
“Self-acceptance comes from meeting life's challenges vigorously. Don't numb yourself to your trials and difficulties, nor build mental walls to exclude pain from your life. You will find peace not by trying to escape your problems, but by confronting them courageously. You will find peace not in denial, but in victory.”
- J. Donald Walters
All of this means that we value ourselves as we are, with all our weaknesses and strengths and regardless of them. Doing so will free yourself to live, to enjoy and grow in spite of the many different frustrations and crises that occur in life.
That being said, it does not mean we should not be setting goals for ourselves. We need to continue to aim for something better than what we are already experiencing. In an article by Steve Pavlina he makes a good point, "now you have to decide how much you want to push things to improve in quality as you progress through life. You can accept your current position as adequate and opt to simply maintain it, or you can strive to achieve something greater."
It is your decision on where you take your life. By accepting who and what you are will enable you to figure out where you want to take your life. Until you do so, it will be very difficult to figure out how to make change. It will also give you piece of mind to make those decisions. Believe in yourself, accept who you are and then position yourself for change.
“Self-acceptance comes from meeting life's challenges vigorously. Don't numb yourself to your trials and difficulties, nor build mental walls to exclude pain from your life. You will find peace not by trying to escape your problems, but by confronting them courageously. You will find peace not in denial, but in victory.”
- J. Donald Walters
All of this means that we value ourselves as we are, with all our weaknesses and strengths and regardless of them. Doing so will free yourself to live, to enjoy and grow in spite of the many different frustrations and crises that occur in life.
That being said, it does not mean we should not be setting goals for ourselves. We need to continue to aim for something better than what we are already experiencing. In an article by Steve Pavlina he makes a good point, "now you have to decide how much you want to push things to improve in quality as you progress through life. You can accept your current position as adequate and opt to simply maintain it, or you can strive to achieve something greater."
It is your decision on where you take your life. By accepting who and what you are will enable you to figure out where you want to take your life. Until you do so, it will be very difficult to figure out how to make change. It will also give you piece of mind to make those decisions. Believe in yourself, accept who you are and then position yourself for change.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Self Empowerment
Self Empowerment - have the desire to see others succeed because life isn't just about you.
"Be of service. Whether you make yourself available to a friend or co-worker, or you make time every month to do volunteer work, there is nothing that harvests more of a feeling of empowerment than being of service to someone in need." - Gillian Anderson
Self-empowerment is the process of taking responsibility for your attitudes, behaviors and actions will work to maximize your effectiveness in all that you do. When you do this, you understand that life isn't just about you.
The definition as expressed in 'YourDictionary.com' describes it as;
1. To invest with power, especially legal power or official authority.
2. To equip or supply with an ability; enable: "Computers ... empower students to become intellectual explorers" (Edward B. Fiske).
The interesting thing about this is the note they provide with the definition. "Although it is a contemporary buzzword, the word empower is not new, having arisen in the mid-17th century with the legalistic meaning "to invest with authority, authorize." Shortly thereafter it began to be used with an infinitive in a more general way meaning "to enable or permit."
How I use the term in this article is to express that by taking responsibility for your attitudes, behaviors and actions will give you a better perspective on how your life impacts those around you. By acknowledging this, you will go out of your way to see others succeed.
I am sure there will be those that disagree with my use of the term 'self-empowerment' as I've read varying opinions on what it means. Most agree that it means understanding that you have the ability or control over your own life. My belief is that in understanding you have authority over that which you do will place you in a position to help others.
Your life is in control and the success of others should not come as a threat to you. You will be able to take joy in the accomplishment of others, without jealousy and with respect for them.
"Be of service. Whether you make yourself available to a friend or co-worker, or you make time every month to do volunteer work, there is nothing that harvests more of a feeling of empowerment than being of service to someone in need." - Gillian Anderson
Self-empowerment is the process of taking responsibility for your attitudes, behaviors and actions will work to maximize your effectiveness in all that you do. When you do this, you understand that life isn't just about you.
The definition as expressed in 'YourDictionary.com' describes it as;
1. To invest with power, especially legal power or official authority.
2. To equip or supply with an ability; enable: "Computers ... empower students to become intellectual explorers" (Edward B. Fiske).
The interesting thing about this is the note they provide with the definition. "Although it is a contemporary buzzword, the word empower is not new, having arisen in the mid-17th century with the legalistic meaning "to invest with authority, authorize." Shortly thereafter it began to be used with an infinitive in a more general way meaning "to enable or permit."
How I use the term in this article is to express that by taking responsibility for your attitudes, behaviors and actions will give you a better perspective on how your life impacts those around you. By acknowledging this, you will go out of your way to see others succeed.
I am sure there will be those that disagree with my use of the term 'self-empowerment' as I've read varying opinions on what it means. Most agree that it means understanding that you have the ability or control over your own life. My belief is that in understanding you have authority over that which you do will place you in a position to help others.
Your life is in control and the success of others should not come as a threat to you. You will be able to take joy in the accomplishment of others, without jealousy and with respect for them.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Self Improvement
Self Improvement - there is always room to improve, always challenge yourself.
“Self-improvement is the name of the game, and your primary objective is to strengthen yourself, not to destroy an opponent.” - Maxwell Maltz
A person goes to college to learn a skill which will allow them to get a good job, be successful and make lots of money. This provides them with security and the ability to have a great life. It also gives them additional ability to help others. There is nothing in what I just said which says they gain in order to 'destroy' others.
Working on improving yourself isn't just about going to school, it is about improving yourself in three ways. There may be more but these three are ones I consider important.
One - improve your mind. Learn something new or different each day. Our brain is capable of so much and the more one learns, the more information we have to make better informed decisions. This is one reason older people are said to give sage advice. Now sage can mean a suffriticose labiate plant with grayish green foliage, much used in flavoring meats, etc.
But for our purpose it means, having nice discernment and powers of judging. Back to my point, the older we get, the more information we have to draw from when making decisions. Learn something new or different each day.
Two - improve your body. Walk around the block at least once a day or use the stairs. At my age I feel like I am simply trying to hang on to what I have. Staying healthy has advantages in both keeping your mind healthy, your body healthy and your bank account healthy. An example of this is provided by Fidelity Investments. I could show what doctors say, but let us look at where it effects us most, in our banking accounts.
An article by Fidelity says, "staying healthy is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to avoid unnecessary healthcare expenses. Getting the most for your healthcare dollars can be as simple as making a plan to eat right, maintaining an appropriate weight level, and exercising at least 30 minutes daily. By following a simple diet and exercise plan, you'll reduce your likelihood of developing certain diseases and illnesses, and you'll potentially avoid the cost of unnecessary medical visits." So walk around the block at least once a day or use the stairs.
Three - improve your spirit. Build a more positive view of yourself and life around you. A cardiologist, Meyer Friedman talked about your personality type and its effect on you. "The impatience, hostility and all-consuming drive for results that typify Type-A men and women, produces a one-dimensional personality, one with a profound and deadly absence of spiritual life. By "spiritual" he doesn't mean certain beliefs or religious tenets but a basic concern with human relations and other interests that enrich life. Without this spirituality, changing diet and exercise habits to lower cholesterol levels and improve health overall isn't enough to protect a Type A's heart."
Basically, with a renewed spirit you can face difficulty in life much better. It doesn't mean you won't have anguish or pain, just a better means of facing it. It means improving your attitude about things, about life and about others. Build a more positive view of yourself and life around you.
“Self-improvement is the name of the game, and your primary objective is to strengthen yourself, not to destroy an opponent.” - Maxwell Maltz
A person goes to college to learn a skill which will allow them to get a good job, be successful and make lots of money. This provides them with security and the ability to have a great life. It also gives them additional ability to help others. There is nothing in what I just said which says they gain in order to 'destroy' others.
Working on improving yourself isn't just about going to school, it is about improving yourself in three ways. There may be more but these three are ones I consider important.
One - improve your mind. Learn something new or different each day. Our brain is capable of so much and the more one learns, the more information we have to make better informed decisions. This is one reason older people are said to give sage advice. Now sage can mean a suffriticose labiate plant with grayish green foliage, much used in flavoring meats, etc.
But for our purpose it means, having nice discernment and powers of judging. Back to my point, the older we get, the more information we have to draw from when making decisions. Learn something new or different each day.
Two - improve your body. Walk around the block at least once a day or use the stairs. At my age I feel like I am simply trying to hang on to what I have. Staying healthy has advantages in both keeping your mind healthy, your body healthy and your bank account healthy. An example of this is provided by Fidelity Investments. I could show what doctors say, but let us look at where it effects us most, in our banking accounts.
An article by Fidelity says, "staying healthy is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to avoid unnecessary healthcare expenses. Getting the most for your healthcare dollars can be as simple as making a plan to eat right, maintaining an appropriate weight level, and exercising at least 30 minutes daily. By following a simple diet and exercise plan, you'll reduce your likelihood of developing certain diseases and illnesses, and you'll potentially avoid the cost of unnecessary medical visits." So walk around the block at least once a day or use the stairs.
Three - improve your spirit. Build a more positive view of yourself and life around you. A cardiologist, Meyer Friedman talked about your personality type and its effect on you. "The impatience, hostility and all-consuming drive for results that typify Type-A men and women, produces a one-dimensional personality, one with a profound and deadly absence of spiritual life. By "spiritual" he doesn't mean certain beliefs or religious tenets but a basic concern with human relations and other interests that enrich life. Without this spirituality, changing diet and exercise habits to lower cholesterol levels and improve health overall isn't enough to protect a Type A's heart."
Basically, with a renewed spirit you can face difficulty in life much better. It doesn't mean you won't have anguish or pain, just a better means of facing it. It means improving your attitude about things, about life and about others. Build a more positive view of yourself and life around you.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Self Significance
Self Significance - you do matter in this life, the contribution you make in life is real.
“To have that sense of one's intrinsic worth which constitutes self-respect is potentially to have everything: the ability to discriminate, to love and to remain indifferent. To lack it is to be locked within oneself, paradoxically incapable of either love or indifference.” - Joan Didion
In psychology, self-esteem or self-significance is a person's subjective appraisal of himself or herself as intrinsically positive or negative to some degree. How you see yourself as being an important part of the world around you becomes an integral part of who you are. If you feel that you are insignificant or non-contributing, then opportunity in life will pass you by.
Yet knowing that you touch many people in large and small ways has to be understood. The store is abound that give examples. Think of the Christmas classic, Its A Wonderful Life and all of the lessons one can learn from it. Many people would scoff at the ideas presented in it, but I can't think of a more simple way of explaining to you that you do mean something to this life.
When we leave this life, there will be people that carry on bits and pieces of your legacy. Your life has part in shaping the lives of others and life in general. You may not have noteriety of a Mahatma Ghandi or Abraham Lincoln, but your life does matter, your life impacts.
So understand and believe in yourself, in your significance to life around you. Those close to you know of your significance as do those that you cross paths with in daily life.
“To have that sense of one's intrinsic worth which constitutes self-respect is potentially to have everything: the ability to discriminate, to love and to remain indifferent. To lack it is to be locked within oneself, paradoxically incapable of either love or indifference.” - Joan Didion
In psychology, self-esteem or self-significance is a person's subjective appraisal of himself or herself as intrinsically positive or negative to some degree. How you see yourself as being an important part of the world around you becomes an integral part of who you are. If you feel that you are insignificant or non-contributing, then opportunity in life will pass you by.
Yet knowing that you touch many people in large and small ways has to be understood. The store is abound that give examples. Think of the Christmas classic, Its A Wonderful Life and all of the lessons one can learn from it. Many people would scoff at the ideas presented in it, but I can't think of a more simple way of explaining to you that you do mean something to this life.
When we leave this life, there will be people that carry on bits and pieces of your legacy. Your life has part in shaping the lives of others and life in general. You may not have noteriety of a Mahatma Ghandi or Abraham Lincoln, but your life does matter, your life impacts.
So understand and believe in yourself, in your significance to life around you. Those close to you know of your significance as do those that you cross paths with in daily life.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Self Confidence
Self Confidence - believe in yourself, have confidence in your ability.
"Self confidence gives you the freedom to make mistakes and cope with failure without feeling that your world has come to an end or that you are a worthless person." - author unknown
The freedom from doubt and having a belief in yourself and your abilities to accomplish things in life. And also having the strength to continue believing in oneself when failure does occur. You may see it referred to as self esteem in some areas. But equating self confidence with freedom from doubt is not always a true statement. Confidence is needed when an outcome is uncertain, so true confidence could actually be one of feeling comfortable with uncertainty and not knowing what the outcome will be.
Having self confidence is often a result of a positive learning environment and positive self-talk. This positive learning environment is important in the development of self-confidence because people learn by watching. Being negative is bound to bring on negative self-talk, low self-confidence and a poor attitude. If you live and work around people that are always negative, you will not get positive reinforcement of your abilities. You will eventually come down to the level of others.
Yet if you place yourself among positive people, those that push on regardless of the outcome, you will gain confidence by example. To believe in your own ability and understand that there is so much you can do. Others can have confidence in you but until you have confidence in yourself, it will never matter. Work on this aspect of your life and possibility will become clear in your world.
"Self confidence gives you the freedom to make mistakes and cope with failure without feeling that your world has come to an end or that you are a worthless person." - author unknown
The freedom from doubt and having a belief in yourself and your abilities to accomplish things in life. And also having the strength to continue believing in oneself when failure does occur. You may see it referred to as self esteem in some areas. But equating self confidence with freedom from doubt is not always a true statement. Confidence is needed when an outcome is uncertain, so true confidence could actually be one of feeling comfortable with uncertainty and not knowing what the outcome will be.
Having self confidence is often a result of a positive learning environment and positive self-talk. This positive learning environment is important in the development of self-confidence because people learn by watching. Being negative is bound to bring on negative self-talk, low self-confidence and a poor attitude. If you live and work around people that are always negative, you will not get positive reinforcement of your abilities. You will eventually come down to the level of others.
Yet if you place yourself among positive people, those that push on regardless of the outcome, you will gain confidence by example. To believe in your own ability and understand that there is so much you can do. Others can have confidence in you but until you have confidence in yourself, it will never matter. Work on this aspect of your life and possibility will become clear in your world.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Self Concept
Self Concept - knowing what your nature is, is important in knowing who you are.
“An individual's self-concept is the core of his personality. It affects every aspect of human behavior: the ability to learn, the capacity to grow and change. A strong, positive self-image is the best possible preparation for success in life.” - Dr. Joyce Brothers
The definition of self concept is (from Wikipedia) the mental and conceptual awareness and persistent regard that sentient or conscious beings hold with regard to their own being. In other words, knowing who we are as an individual. It isn't what other people think we are, it is knowing yourself.
The Encyclopedia of Psychology describes it as '... the way in which one perceives oneself-can be divided into categories, such as personal self-concept (facts or one's own opinions about oneself, such as "I have brown eyes" or "I am attractive"); social self-concept (one's perceptions about how one is regarded by others: "people think I have a great sense of humor"); and self-ideals (what or how one would like to be: "I want to be a lawyer" or "I wish I were thinner").'
So daily we assess ourselves, we rate ourselves, we compare ourselves, always evaluating the various aspects of who we are. Is your view or evaluation of who you are accurate? I have read from various sources that you need to be accurate, positive and strong in knowing your nature. Doing so will assist you in being the most successful in relationships with other people.
A benefit of all this is the ability to control the various parts of your emotional world in such a way that provides consistency and balance to your life. So know who you are and be better prepared to engage in life.
“An individual's self-concept is the core of his personality. It affects every aspect of human behavior: the ability to learn, the capacity to grow and change. A strong, positive self-image is the best possible preparation for success in life.” - Dr. Joyce Brothers
The definition of self concept is (from Wikipedia) the mental and conceptual awareness and persistent regard that sentient or conscious beings hold with regard to their own being. In other words, knowing who we are as an individual. It isn't what other people think we are, it is knowing yourself.
The Encyclopedia of Psychology describes it as '... the way in which one perceives oneself-can be divided into categories, such as personal self-concept (facts or one's own opinions about oneself, such as "I have brown eyes" or "I am attractive"); social self-concept (one's perceptions about how one is regarded by others: "people think I have a great sense of humor"); and self-ideals (what or how one would like to be: "I want to be a lawyer" or "I wish I were thinner").'
So daily we assess ourselves, we rate ourselves, we compare ourselves, always evaluating the various aspects of who we are. Is your view or evaluation of who you are accurate? I have read from various sources that you need to be accurate, positive and strong in knowing your nature. Doing so will assist you in being the most successful in relationships with other people.
A benefit of all this is the ability to control the various parts of your emotional world in such a way that provides consistency and balance to your life. So know who you are and be better prepared to engage in life.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Six Selfs
“It's self-dedication, self-motivation, maintenance of your feelings. It's having the ability to fall and fall and fall and get up and keep doing it, keep doing it. It's realizing you've made a mistake and going out there and fixing it.” - Amy Nyman
So just where does one start in picking oneself up. One way is to sit down and perform a self assessment of yourself. Examine six facets in your life - you will note that there was a six spoked wheel that contained six areas of your life. The following six facets of life are about self.
1. Self Concept - knowing what your nature is, is important in knowing who you are.
2. Self Confidence - believe in yourself, have confidence in your ability.
3. Self Significance - you do matter in this life, the contribution you make in life is real.
4. Self Improvement - there is always room to improve, always challenge yourself.
5. Self Empowerment - have the desire to see others succeed because life isn't just about you.
6. Self Acceptance - embrace all that you are, who you are and what you are.
So just where does one start in picking oneself up. One way is to sit down and perform a self assessment of yourself. Examine six facets in your life - you will note that there was a six spoked wheel that contained six areas of your life. The following six facets of life are about self.
1. Self Concept - knowing what your nature is, is important in knowing who you are.
2. Self Confidence - believe in yourself, have confidence in your ability.
3. Self Significance - you do matter in this life, the contribution you make in life is real.
4. Self Improvement - there is always room to improve, always challenge yourself.
5. Self Empowerment - have the desire to see others succeed because life isn't just about you.
6. Self Acceptance - embrace all that you are, who you are and what you are.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Open Door Of Possibility
Opening the door to possibility. Step out of the darkness and into the light. Photographer of this picture is unknown.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Walking Through That Door
"The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can change his life by changing his attitude of mind." - William James
For many days he didn't return to building near the crossroads. There seemed to be no point in going for he felt his lot had been cast. He sat in darkened rooms thinking about where his life was. What it was he had done and also what he hadn't done up to this point. All the while there was a small voice inside of him that was trying to speak.
After days of self pity he began to place himself among others. Those that he called real friends and trusted with their honesty. His faith in many things was lost but he knew he had to find a way back from this deep valley. Slowly he sought help as he had reached a point where he knew it could not be done on his own. Faith and belief in a better life became a possibility, a dim light of expectation. This caused the voice inside to grow louder.
He learned all he could about what had happened in his life. A truthful look inside himself and the events that placed him at this moment in time. Even though others had a share in the situation, he knew that he had to take responsibility for his own attitude, his own life. Without grabbing hold of a new way of thinking, a new way of approaching life, he could not move to a better life.
The voice grew louder as he accepted a new attitude. As the days passed, he even returned to the building by the crossroads. Possibility was once again in his heart and mind. Then it happened as it does to everyone that chooses to change. For some it is a chance encounter, to others it is a friend making a suggestion. It comes in many different forms and not always as a bolt of lightening. Many times it is a subtle change of wind that causes us to take that next step.
As the voice inside was now his own, today he stepped through the open door. Out into a bright and vibrant sky with roads leading many different ways. Which one should he take but he knew the answer already. Any one of them would be fine for if that one didn't work out, there were always others. Always other answers, other possibilities and a life full of opportunity. For he had a new attitude, he was giving of himself and was part of a better life.
Change will occur sometimes with you and sometimes without you. It is how you deal with that change or how you make change that will determine the level of of life. Wallow in despair and that is where you will stay. Accept change and make movement in your life.
Take down your dreams and visions from the wall and place them into your pocket. Now step out in to the crossroads and choose a path. Know that whatever you do, failure or success is that change is always possible. This means that possibility is endless. Live your life exploring it and sharing it with others. Enjoy a better life.
For many days he didn't return to building near the crossroads. There seemed to be no point in going for he felt his lot had been cast. He sat in darkened rooms thinking about where his life was. What it was he had done and also what he hadn't done up to this point. All the while there was a small voice inside of him that was trying to speak.
After days of self pity he began to place himself among others. Those that he called real friends and trusted with their honesty. His faith in many things was lost but he knew he had to find a way back from this deep valley. Slowly he sought help as he had reached a point where he knew it could not be done on his own. Faith and belief in a better life became a possibility, a dim light of expectation. This caused the voice inside to grow louder.
He learned all he could about what had happened in his life. A truthful look inside himself and the events that placed him at this moment in time. Even though others had a share in the situation, he knew that he had to take responsibility for his own attitude, his own life. Without grabbing hold of a new way of thinking, a new way of approaching life, he could not move to a better life.
The voice grew louder as he accepted a new attitude. As the days passed, he even returned to the building by the crossroads. Possibility was once again in his heart and mind. Then it happened as it does to everyone that chooses to change. For some it is a chance encounter, to others it is a friend making a suggestion. It comes in many different forms and not always as a bolt of lightening. Many times it is a subtle change of wind that causes us to take that next step.
As the voice inside was now his own, today he stepped through the open door. Out into a bright and vibrant sky with roads leading many different ways. Which one should he take but he knew the answer already. Any one of them would be fine for if that one didn't work out, there were always others. Always other answers, other possibilities and a life full of opportunity. For he had a new attitude, he was giving of himself and was part of a better life.
Change will occur sometimes with you and sometimes without you. It is how you deal with that change or how you make change that will determine the level of of life. Wallow in despair and that is where you will stay. Accept change and make movement in your life.
Take down your dreams and visions from the wall and place them into your pocket. Now step out in to the crossroads and choose a path. Know that whatever you do, failure or success is that change is always possible. This means that possibility is endless. Live your life exploring it and sharing it with others. Enjoy a better life.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Picture A Plate Spinning
From Van Buren EntertainmentI thought it would help those of you that may not have a picture in your mind of exactly what 'plate spinning' is.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Life Of Spinning Plates
“There are those of us who are always about to live. We are waiting until things change, until there is more time, until we are less tired, until we get a promotion, until we settle down / until, until, until. It always seems as if there is some major event that must occur in our lives before we begin living.” - George Sheehan
So it was on this particular day that he had spent time awaiting for the door to open. He always felt good by seeing the light of change shine through the opening. If only for a short time, he was recharged by being so close to possibility but never did he move towards the open door. Why did he not have the courage to change he asked himself.
A family, home and great job that he worked at feverishly. The all consuming job that he devoted so much time and energy to. The results of which provided for his family in ways that wouldn't have been possible had he not worked so hard. Everyday he would put in ten to twelve hours, staying ahead of work demands. Slowly earning more and being an integral part of the work place.
As he thought to himself about work, he kept trying to think exactly what it was his family was doing that week. I have to stay focused he said to himself in a hushed tone. Too much work to keep up with, have to stay ahead of the curve. Yet something kept nagging him, about his life, about his home and family. Where had all of the time gone?
As the open door of change closed and the dull flourescent light of the room returned, he started for the path. As he walked along the unpaved path, a few stones scattered to the sides an overwhelming feeling of loss began to overcome him. The work weighed heavily upon him but he headed for home. Home, so many unfinished projects greeted him when entering the front door.
The back deck sitting partially completed awaiting those finishing touches. An unrepaired ceiling joint and a broken window to replace were but a few of the items on what seemed a mounting list. Where were his children, his wife and the hum of excitement that he was home. None of them were there. Most days the only excitement they actually had was that he really did come home from work.
Where had all of the time gone? A list of unfinished projects and an even bigger list of failed attention to his family. But work, the work is important he thought. How else could he provide for his family and complete all that needed to be done. Like an old Ed Sullivan Show act of Spinning Plates. The performer had to keep running from one end to another keeping all of the plates spinning.
His life was like that, always running to keep the different areas of his life going. Long days at the office, rushing to get home for a school function or meeting with his wife and friends. Try to get some work done on a home project and do that volunteer stuff at the church. Running and never seeming to get ahead of the wobbling plates. It could be that his life wasn't all that bad but perception is in the eye of the beholder. Why couldn't people just understand how difficult his life was? Why couldn't people just be more helpful?
He was about to find out just how difficult life was going to become as he walked through his home. This was the beginning of change. Movement was happening and it was pulling him with it. The plates began to tumble to the floor with a resounding crash.
So it was on this particular day that he had spent time awaiting for the door to open. He always felt good by seeing the light of change shine through the opening. If only for a short time, he was recharged by being so close to possibility but never did he move towards the open door. Why did he not have the courage to change he asked himself.
A family, home and great job that he worked at feverishly. The all consuming job that he devoted so much time and energy to. The results of which provided for his family in ways that wouldn't have been possible had he not worked so hard. Everyday he would put in ten to twelve hours, staying ahead of work demands. Slowly earning more and being an integral part of the work place.
As he thought to himself about work, he kept trying to think exactly what it was his family was doing that week. I have to stay focused he said to himself in a hushed tone. Too much work to keep up with, have to stay ahead of the curve. Yet something kept nagging him, about his life, about his home and family. Where had all of the time gone?
As the open door of change closed and the dull flourescent light of the room returned, he started for the path. As he walked along the unpaved path, a few stones scattered to the sides an overwhelming feeling of loss began to overcome him. The work weighed heavily upon him but he headed for home. Home, so many unfinished projects greeted him when entering the front door.
The back deck sitting partially completed awaiting those finishing touches. An unrepaired ceiling joint and a broken window to replace were but a few of the items on what seemed a mounting list. Where were his children, his wife and the hum of excitement that he was home. None of them were there. Most days the only excitement they actually had was that he really did come home from work.
Where had all of the time gone? A list of unfinished projects and an even bigger list of failed attention to his family. But work, the work is important he thought. How else could he provide for his family and complete all that needed to be done. Like an old Ed Sullivan Show act of Spinning Plates. The performer had to keep running from one end to another keeping all of the plates spinning.
His life was like that, always running to keep the different areas of his life going. Long days at the office, rushing to get home for a school function or meeting with his wife and friends. Try to get some work done on a home project and do that volunteer stuff at the church. Running and never seeming to get ahead of the wobbling plates. It could be that his life wasn't all that bad but perception is in the eye of the beholder. Why couldn't people just understand how difficult his life was? Why couldn't people just be more helpful?
He was about to find out just how difficult life was going to become as he walked through his home. This was the beginning of change. Movement was happening and it was pulling him with it. The plates began to tumble to the floor with a resounding crash.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Take Advantage Of Opportunity
"It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something." - Franklin Roosevelt
There were several people that took advantage of the open door (see Life At A Crossroads from Tuesday, March 21, 2006). A door to the unknown but a door to all the possibility that life has to offer. Some were young with no fears of failure and the unbridled passion to jump at opportunity when it presents itself. Others were older with years of holding back but with a renewed passion to make a change from the life that had held them back.
One such person was an older, middle aged man who had for years left his dreams upon the walls of the gathering room. That dreary place that he so often came, only to shy away from the brightness that shined through that open door. Turning to walk back down that beaten and worn path that so many of the people used.
Every day he would come to the building, pick up his dreams and wait patiently for the appointed time. That time when the door swings wide with expectation and wonderment. Yet he always allowed stubborn reason to deny him. He had been living life the same way for so many years. Why change now, what would be the point in disrupting the steady pace of life. Sure, there were good things in his life and moments of greatness. Yet his and the life of others around him seemed to never get to a new level.
He tried many things in life, some of which he was successful at. His career seemed to be moving forward with a promotion here, a change there. He tried different schemes to make more money to feed what seemed to be an insatiable appetite that life had around he and his family. Though he never seemed to understand his attitude towards life was more important in determining the quality of that life.
The building near the crossroads was brought to his attention a number of years earlier by a friend. The friend had talked of life changing possibility by simply walking through an open door. Much like others around him, the idea excited him and how easy it was. All he had to do was walk through an open door. He did not even have to unlock it, turn a handle or push it open. Someone was there to simply open it for him to walk on through.
So he had decided to go and see what it was all about. When he entered the room originally, it looked like any other room he had seen in life. Many people were excited and moved about the room in hushed voices. Many were talking to others and to themselves for that matter. The conversations spoke of what was on the other side, to what will happen with those left behind.
Eventually he heard people turn their talk to questioning if this was a good idea at all. Placing doubt on the goodness that lay beyond 'the door'. He had to wonder himself and when he saw the door open, the light that shown in was so clear, so vibrant. It took him aback and startled him. He began to wonder if that was such a good thing. His life wasn't so bad, why change now.
And then the door closed, the dull gray light took over the room once again. He was startled again to finally notice how dreary this room truly was. The open door had revealed the difference and he knew he would have to return the next day.
But every day he returned to see the light of possibility shine through that open door. And every day he hesitated to walk through the open door. He always had his reasons for not moving forward in his life. What would his friends say, what if he failed, what was really out there? He began to listen to others in the room. The ones that were never going to walk through that door. Their only purpose he supposed was to keep others from leaving through the door of opportunity.
Yet he believed they had good reasons. He allowed himself to accept what it was they said. From time to time his arguments defending the life he wanted almost got him through the door. But he always allowed the others to hold him back. So with them he would go back down the weary old path once the door had closed for the day.
And then one day something changed.....
There were several people that took advantage of the open door (see Life At A Crossroads from Tuesday, March 21, 2006). A door to the unknown but a door to all the possibility that life has to offer. Some were young with no fears of failure and the unbridled passion to jump at opportunity when it presents itself. Others were older with years of holding back but with a renewed passion to make a change from the life that had held them back.
One such person was an older, middle aged man who had for years left his dreams upon the walls of the gathering room. That dreary place that he so often came, only to shy away from the brightness that shined through that open door. Turning to walk back down that beaten and worn path that so many of the people used.
Every day he would come to the building, pick up his dreams and wait patiently for the appointed time. That time when the door swings wide with expectation and wonderment. Yet he always allowed stubborn reason to deny him. He had been living life the same way for so many years. Why change now, what would be the point in disrupting the steady pace of life. Sure, there were good things in his life and moments of greatness. Yet his and the life of others around him seemed to never get to a new level.
He tried many things in life, some of which he was successful at. His career seemed to be moving forward with a promotion here, a change there. He tried different schemes to make more money to feed what seemed to be an insatiable appetite that life had around he and his family. Though he never seemed to understand his attitude towards life was more important in determining the quality of that life.
The building near the crossroads was brought to his attention a number of years earlier by a friend. The friend had talked of life changing possibility by simply walking through an open door. Much like others around him, the idea excited him and how easy it was. All he had to do was walk through an open door. He did not even have to unlock it, turn a handle or push it open. Someone was there to simply open it for him to walk on through.
So he had decided to go and see what it was all about. When he entered the room originally, it looked like any other room he had seen in life. Many people were excited and moved about the room in hushed voices. Many were talking to others and to themselves for that matter. The conversations spoke of what was on the other side, to what will happen with those left behind.
Eventually he heard people turn their talk to questioning if this was a good idea at all. Placing doubt on the goodness that lay beyond 'the door'. He had to wonder himself and when he saw the door open, the light that shown in was so clear, so vibrant. It took him aback and startled him. He began to wonder if that was such a good thing. His life wasn't so bad, why change now.
And then the door closed, the dull gray light took over the room once again. He was startled again to finally notice how dreary this room truly was. The open door had revealed the difference and he knew he would have to return the next day.
But every day he returned to see the light of possibility shine through that open door. And every day he hesitated to walk through the open door. He always had his reasons for not moving forward in his life. What would his friends say, what if he failed, what was really out there? He began to listen to others in the room. The ones that were never going to walk through that door. Their only purpose he supposed was to keep others from leaving through the door of opportunity.
Yet he believed they had good reasons. He allowed himself to accept what it was they said. From time to time his arguments defending the life he wanted almost got him through the door. But he always allowed the others to hold him back. So with them he would go back down the weary old path once the door had closed for the day.
And then one day something changed.....
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Chart Your Life
The diagram is for you to print out and rate yourself on the six areas of your life. The wheel is patterned after one put out by Leadership Management, Inc. in 1991. It is a good way to start yourself on a path to a greater life.It is simple enough to use as there are nine pegs on each spoke. The peg closest to the center or hub (YOU) is equal to one. The next one out equals two, so on and so forth with the last peg equaling nine. Place an 'x' on the peg at which you believe this part of your life is at. Do this for each spoke of the wheel.
This is not a contest but a way of comparing each spoke within your life. You will notice there is no number ten peg. Ten is commonly associated with being perfect and as a person that is growing and understands how life is, we know we'll never be perfect. We can be very good at things and strive for greatness - but it is balance among all of the spokes that is important.
When you have finished, look over each of the spokes and see which ones need work. The low marked ones are where you start. Just start is what you want to do to bring balance into life. As you balance out these areas of your life - and remember it is to have balance, not that all spokes have to be nines - things will work better. One part of your life can pick up for the other should you experience a down turn in another.
A great life is yours to have - balance out your life and experience it.
Monday, July 03, 2006
Staying Physically Fit
"Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” - Unknown Author
This last two spokes of a well-rounded wheel follow with the mental and physical aspects of our life. All spokes together create a wheel that allows us to achieve a greater life.
Mental and Emotional
The greeting is simple and most people pass on it without giving much thought to it. The act of someone asking, "how are you?" Do you stop and ask yourself that question? Do you really know how you are feeling or simply passing through time.
Every so often you need to sit back and examine your own mental and emotional state. Think about whether or not you've yelled at someone while driving. The stress level sometimes builds on us and our emotions can boil to the surface. Relieving the stress will help you to control your emotions. Don't let your emotions rule your life.
Find ways to ease back and relax from time to time. Then think about where your mind is at. If your emotions and mental state are tipping in a bad way, then the other parts of your life are effected. You don't perform nearly as well and life just seems to 'get in the way'. Work on this part of your life and if need be, get help. There is nothing wrong with seeking assistance to work out this area of 'you'.
Physical and Health
The last time you walked up a flight of stairs, were you breathing heavily? Can you do some of the same things you did a year ago when it comes to physical movement? Your ability to maintain health is directly related to how much physical activity you maintain. This year, my wife and I are participating in the Peachtree Roadrace. A 10K Run that of course we will walk along with most of the other 55,000 other runners/walkers.
Staying physically fit will help you keep your health longer in life. You will feel better and more able to function at a higher peak. All of us can use a bit more exercise and many find it difficult to find the time. It is certainly easier to sleep in or simply collapse on the couch after a long day at work.
If we work only partly as hard on our physical health as we do our job, the benefits would be tremendous. A quick walk around the block before or after work. Eating an apple for a snack instead of that candy bar. One less beer and maybe more water to drink is doable. Starting small will gradually build you up.
To do the things you want to do in life, being physically able to matters an awful lot. We as humans tend to think we are invincible but time and age do catch up with us. So if you are not happy with your current level of physical health, start doing something. Maybe you already work out, are you ready to take your health and fitness to the next level? There will be sacrifice of some sort to achieve fitness goals. Start with achievable goals, ones that are just out of reach. Then start today even if you haven't worked it all out yet. You'll feel better for it.
On Wednesday I'll provide a diagram of the six spokes that you can print out. Each spoke will contain a scale that you can rate yourself on. Then take it upon yourself to work on these areas of your life. Get the wheel in motion to a greater life for you and those around you.
This last two spokes of a well-rounded wheel follow with the mental and physical aspects of our life. All spokes together create a wheel that allows us to achieve a greater life.
Mental and Emotional
The greeting is simple and most people pass on it without giving much thought to it. The act of someone asking, "how are you?" Do you stop and ask yourself that question? Do you really know how you are feeling or simply passing through time.
Every so often you need to sit back and examine your own mental and emotional state. Think about whether or not you've yelled at someone while driving. The stress level sometimes builds on us and our emotions can boil to the surface. Relieving the stress will help you to control your emotions. Don't let your emotions rule your life.
Find ways to ease back and relax from time to time. Then think about where your mind is at. If your emotions and mental state are tipping in a bad way, then the other parts of your life are effected. You don't perform nearly as well and life just seems to 'get in the way'. Work on this part of your life and if need be, get help. There is nothing wrong with seeking assistance to work out this area of 'you'.
Physical and Health
The last time you walked up a flight of stairs, were you breathing heavily? Can you do some of the same things you did a year ago when it comes to physical movement? Your ability to maintain health is directly related to how much physical activity you maintain. This year, my wife and I are participating in the Peachtree Roadrace. A 10K Run that of course we will walk along with most of the other 55,000 other runners/walkers.
Staying physically fit will help you keep your health longer in life. You will feel better and more able to function at a higher peak. All of us can use a bit more exercise and many find it difficult to find the time. It is certainly easier to sleep in or simply collapse on the couch after a long day at work.
If we work only partly as hard on our physical health as we do our job, the benefits would be tremendous. A quick walk around the block before or after work. Eating an apple for a snack instead of that candy bar. One less beer and maybe more water to drink is doable. Starting small will gradually build you up.
To do the things you want to do in life, being physically able to matters an awful lot. We as humans tend to think we are invincible but time and age do catch up with us. So if you are not happy with your current level of physical health, start doing something. Maybe you already work out, are you ready to take your health and fitness to the next level? There will be sacrifice of some sort to achieve fitness goals. Start with achievable goals, ones that are just out of reach. Then start today even if you haven't worked it all out yet. You'll feel better for it.
On Wednesday I'll provide a diagram of the six spokes that you can print out. Each spoke will contain a scale that you can rate yourself on. Then take it upon yourself to work on these areas of your life. Get the wheel in motion to a greater life for you and those around you.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Your Values and Family Life
Continuing with my series on the six spokes to a great life, spokes three and four. "Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without a spiritual life." - Buddha
Spiritual and Moral
In your life, have you determined what your personal values are in life? I mean really sat down one day and thought about what it is you believe or don't believe in. Things relating to money, job, sex, politics and religion are areas filled with vast ranges of spiritual and moral possibility. Where do you stand on these?
As it was spoken to me, "are you living up to those personal values?" If you take your place in values relating to religion and God is important to you, do your values reflect your beliefs? The same can be asked of your job. Does the way you conduct yourself at work conflict or fall in line with your religious thoughts.
This area of life can be complicated and so many aspects are woven together. But if you work to establish simple values and then apply them to other areas of your life, it can work out. I'm not talking about 'imposing' your beliefs on others. I'm talking about having beliefs or values and striving to live by them. It isn't easy and at the same time you need to have an open ear to others. Have spiritual life that helps you establish your morals. It will strengthen this part of your life.
Family and Home
Recently I had the opportunity to see a movie called CLICK that tells the story of a man whose life is wrapped up in his job. His belief being that if he pours more energy into his job, it will provide more opportunity for his family. Sadly, he gets all that he wants for his family yet loses much of what he had 'with' his family.
Many of us will tend to work very hard in our jobs. Work harder, make more money, your family can have more. I for one was very much like this and some hard lessons were learned. Your family needs more then your success and added income. They need your time and your presence.
Do you spend enough time with your spouse, watching your kids grow, talking about life to them and about them? Your kids will watch and learn from what you do. They will either grow away from you or become like you. It is a difficult balance to maintain when the pressures of your job or business demand so much of you. But try not to short change this part of your life. To wake up one day and wish things had been different is difficult to deal with.
Make a change now and spend extra time talking to your spouse, to your kids and just being there. As the movie indicated, don't be on 'auto-pilot'. Engage yourself in this wonderful part of life called family.
Spiritual and Moral
In your life, have you determined what your personal values are in life? I mean really sat down one day and thought about what it is you believe or don't believe in. Things relating to money, job, sex, politics and religion are areas filled with vast ranges of spiritual and moral possibility. Where do you stand on these?
As it was spoken to me, "are you living up to those personal values?" If you take your place in values relating to religion and God is important to you, do your values reflect your beliefs? The same can be asked of your job. Does the way you conduct yourself at work conflict or fall in line with your religious thoughts.
This area of life can be complicated and so many aspects are woven together. But if you work to establish simple values and then apply them to other areas of your life, it can work out. I'm not talking about 'imposing' your beliefs on others. I'm talking about having beliefs or values and striving to live by them. It isn't easy and at the same time you need to have an open ear to others. Have spiritual life that helps you establish your morals. It will strengthen this part of your life.
Family and Home
Recently I had the opportunity to see a movie called CLICK that tells the story of a man whose life is wrapped up in his job. His belief being that if he pours more energy into his job, it will provide more opportunity for his family. Sadly, he gets all that he wants for his family yet loses much of what he had 'with' his family.
Many of us will tend to work very hard in our jobs. Work harder, make more money, your family can have more. I for one was very much like this and some hard lessons were learned. Your family needs more then your success and added income. They need your time and your presence.
Do you spend enough time with your spouse, watching your kids grow, talking about life to them and about them? Your kids will watch and learn from what you do. They will either grow away from you or become like you. It is a difficult balance to maintain when the pressures of your job or business demand so much of you. But try not to short change this part of your life. To wake up one day and wish things had been different is difficult to deal with.
Make a change now and spend extra time talking to your spouse, to your kids and just being there. As the movie indicated, don't be on 'auto-pilot'. Engage yourself in this wonderful part of life called family.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Life Spokes One & Two
“When you take charge of your life, there is no longer need to ask permission of other people or society at large. When you ask permission, you give someone veto power over your life.”
- Abert F. Geoffrey
The first two spokes of ones life have to do with your money and your life withing society. Each are described here. As noted in my previous article, ther are six spokes the complete the wheel of your life. All must be in working order for your life to move forward and achieve greatness.
Financial and Career
So just how much do you enjoy your job. Myself, I love getting up and going to work each day. The people I work with and the type of work I do is great. Everyday I feel like I am contributing something to the company and I get paid a decent wage.
In your life, can you say the same thing? If not, then change needs to happen and it is up to you to do so. What you do for a living, how much you enjoy it and the money you earn performing your job function are all related. One effects the other - if you are not happy, you likely are not performing well which means you don't earn as much.
If you are earning, are you giving back part of your money to society. Maybe to your church, to a charitable organization close to you or maybe directly to others in need. By giving of your money, you will feel better about yourself. It also creates in different ways a return of goodness to you as well. But you say you don't have much money, then start small. Maybe five dollars or ten.
So create your own destiny within your finances and career. Don't spend more then you make as debt is a serious problem. Adjust your budget and spending habits to the level of your earnings. Doing so means you will have less financial stress, feel better and perform better at work. Your performance goes up and most likely your earning.
Social and Cultural
Do you have friends in your life? A recent CBS NEWS Health Watch story indicates that "...most people's circle of confidants is on average about one person smaller now. The percentage of people who say they have no one to confide in has reached about 25%." All of us need those one or two close confidants. People that the article refers to as a "discussion network" — people you reach out to for help, advice, or just as a sounding board. In the new research, they say the network is important because it shapes "the kinds of people we become."
How do you develop these friendships? By having a life outside of work that allows you to draw back and recharge. It also rounds you out better as a person, to be in tune with what is happening in the world around you. You can better effect the world around you when you understand it and engage in it.
Be a part of the world around you - make changes to strengthen these areas of your life.
- Abert F. Geoffrey
The first two spokes of ones life have to do with your money and your life withing society. Each are described here. As noted in my previous article, ther are six spokes the complete the wheel of your life. All must be in working order for your life to move forward and achieve greatness.
Financial and Career
So just how much do you enjoy your job. Myself, I love getting up and going to work each day. The people I work with and the type of work I do is great. Everyday I feel like I am contributing something to the company and I get paid a decent wage.
In your life, can you say the same thing? If not, then change needs to happen and it is up to you to do so. What you do for a living, how much you enjoy it and the money you earn performing your job function are all related. One effects the other - if you are not happy, you likely are not performing well which means you don't earn as much.
If you are earning, are you giving back part of your money to society. Maybe to your church, to a charitable organization close to you or maybe directly to others in need. By giving of your money, you will feel better about yourself. It also creates in different ways a return of goodness to you as well. But you say you don't have much money, then start small. Maybe five dollars or ten.
So create your own destiny within your finances and career. Don't spend more then you make as debt is a serious problem. Adjust your budget and spending habits to the level of your earnings. Doing so means you will have less financial stress, feel better and perform better at work. Your performance goes up and most likely your earning.
Social and Cultural
Do you have friends in your life? A recent CBS NEWS Health Watch story indicates that "...most people's circle of confidants is on average about one person smaller now. The percentage of people who say they have no one to confide in has reached about 25%." All of us need those one or two close confidants. People that the article refers to as a "discussion network" — people you reach out to for help, advice, or just as a sounding board. In the new research, they say the network is important because it shapes "the kinds of people we become."
How do you develop these friendships? By having a life outside of work that allows you to draw back and recharge. It also rounds you out better as a person, to be in tune with what is happening in the world around you. You can better effect the world around you when you understand it and engage in it.
Be a part of the world around you - make changes to strengthen these areas of your life.
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