Last week, I wrote to you about not taking “No” for an answer. “No” was simply not an option! It was such a powerful reminder to "stay calm and carry on". It was remarkable how fast an alternate solution came to mind when I became present in the moment, was clear with “my ask”, and then waited to receive an answer. I remained calm when I realized the person in front of me was not going to be in any way helpful. No point wasting my energy on something that she is unable to change, so it was best to keep moving forward. While waiting at the attendant’s desk, I did what I teach: I practiced … [Read more...]
Overcoming Inertia
Last week I wrote about the reasons and excuses we use to not move forward, this week is about overcoming inertia. Yes, it's true, there may be many things to overcome like time, finding quiet space to sit and work, or perhaps it's having the energy to do it. Some recommendations that I use to overcome inertia and get up, out, and Engaged in Life (and may work for you if stuck on the "proverbial couch") are as follows: Plan my day and stick to the plan. Sometimes I plan my day the night before to ensure I am prepared. Build in flex time. This is the time to handle things that will and … [Read more...]
The Couch Potato
Ever pushed a car on a flat road when it's been at rest? The initial push requires a lot of effort but once you've got the car moving, it becomes easier. Quite often it's the same when taking action with something new or different. Recently, while away at a speaking event, I forgot to bring reading material and spent Saturday evening in my hotel room. Being a bit bored I felt like "spacing out" instead of exercising or working. So, I turned on the TV to watch something unmemorable and before I knew it, it was much later than I had planned when I looked at the clock. More than that, it seemed … [Read more...]
Creating Happiness
A couple of months ago I posted a thought on my Twitter feed about spreading happiness. It went like this: "Want to create more happiness? Think of what makes you happy, then smile while around people. Doesn't even need to be at someone." The idea centers on the idea that when we think of something that makes us happy, it places us in an energy rich environment. When we’re in an energy rich environment, things change. I like to visualize it like being in a higher orbit. When we are up high, we can see more of what’s around and below us. Our perspective changes. Being able to see “more” … [Read more...]
Are You Just Like Others or Are You Unique?
Are you just like others or are you unique? Is there anyone else on this planet like you? So why do you compare yourself to others? In my opinion, we need to get away from comparing ourselves to others. It sets us on a slippery slope. We deserve to compare ourselves to the best version we can imagine of ourselves. Knowing we do the best we can with where we consciously are each day. Do you know what the best version of you is in every area of your life? Perhaps an easier target is for you to have an ideal plan to work toward in every area of your life: If we do not live our life on purpose, … [Read more...]
Can’t is a 4-letter word
Can’t is a 4-letter word because like many of the 4-letter varieties, it declares something to ourselves and also to others. I call it a closer, since there is not much that can be said after it’s spoken. How can we argue with can’t? When we say can’t we are really reducing our responsibility in whatever endeavour we’re applying it to. Do we want to give up our power? What’s even worse is when we personalize it with an I: I can’t get this job done I can’t get the kids' meals on the table on time I can’t workout 5 days per week I can’t lose those 10 pounds I can’t make a relationship work I … [Read more...]