Are You Using The 7 Step "What Would Victory Do" Process In Your Life?

Here's a basic, philosophical and spiritual stand that I take.

I believe that everything is purposeful.

Period. No exceptions.

I'm not asking you to accept or believe that for yourself. But I would invite you to explore the possibility of how life would be different for you if that were true.

Rather than asking, "Is that true" or "Is that not true"

I invite you to ask, "How could that be true" and "what if it were true"

So, what do I mean by purposeful? I believe that everything we've ever experienced, whether it's good/bad, positive/negative has all been in service to us fully expressing our Soul's Purpose. I believe that the "universe leaves clues" every step of the way and that if we're open to receive them, we can experience tremendous synchronicity, ease and flow. But if we're consciously or subconsciously not open to receive them, or we're knowingly or unknowingly blocked from receiving them, that's when we experience struggle, hardship, restlessness and discontent. Which sometimes shows up as the proverbial "2 x 4 across the forehead".

While it appears we weren't always given the exact roadmap to follow to fulfill our Soul's Purpose, I believe we've been given many markers and signposts along the way. And those signs can be either very subtle or very... well, not.

I think exploring this concept is important is because it flips our perception of reality on its ear, in some cases by 180 degrees. It requires us to come from personal responsibility, accountability, honor, integrity, congruence, courage, commitment, and empowerment. I refer to this as the victory game.

From that place, there is no victim, entitlement, excuses, settling, guilt, shame, blame, "who did what to whom", giving up, or acting out. I refer to this as the victim game.

It doesn't mean that sometimes the sh*t doesn't hit the fan or that you didn't go through difficult or even traumatic experiences. It certainly can and does... even for prolonged periods of time (even years and decades!)

But when it does, how do you respond vs. react to it? Are you able to see where each person had a part to play in what happened? Can you identify what part you had to play? Can you identify what lesson was there for you to learn to move you closer to your Soul Purpose? If so, that means you have some personal and spiritual growth work to do. If not, that also means you have some personal and spiritual growth work to do, too!

A lot of people talk about spiritual grounding, empowerment, personal power, self-confidence, etc. But I don't actually see a lot of people living, being and embodying all those things. Playing the victory game requires a commitment and dedication to all of the attributes listed above. I believe that if we are ruthlessly dedicated to our personal and spiritual growth work with a "victory" mentality (even when we don't feel like it), it all works out better than we ever could have planned it.

Let me give you one example from my own personal life. And yes, it's personal. I'm sharing this to illustrate how making key decisions along the way can shape the rest of our lives.

When I was at the US Air Force Academy, I developed a severe eating disorder, bulimia, which continued through my active duty service as an officer. I was even hospitalized for over 4 months and medically discharged from the Air Force. I continued seeking traditional treatments, but nothing worked. After all the years of therapy and counseling, I could have given up by blaming it all on my family, saying it wasn't fair, I'm stuck with this the rest of my life, etc. But instead, I chose the victory game of "how am I going to overcome this".

That's when I began exploring non-traditional, holistic, complimentary forms of treatment. I studied and learned about 2 dozen different modalities. Many of them left me feeling good, but none of them gave me lasting results. I could have given up saying I tried everything, I'm stuck with this, nothing works, etc. Again, I chose the victory game.

Finally, when I learned to change my subconscious beliefs, I experienced a shift with the eating disorder in 6 weeks as well as other areas of my life. Ultimately, this led me to begin training people how to change their subconscious beliefs. By choosing the victory game, my biggest obstacle became my biggest blessing in the form of my business. Every obstacle was a choice point and each step along the way was purposeful. Each gave me valuable insights and lessons I needed to help others make major life changes in their business and personal lives, which is a big part of my Soul's Purpose.

I'm now grateful every day for the eating disorder because it was a key to revealing and expressing my Purpose in the world.

So, here is the 7 step "What Would Victory Do" process to apply in your life:

1. Reflect on some of the challenges and obstacles you've overcome and are now facing.
2. Notice how choosing either victim or victory impacted your life and what you learned from it.
3. Identify areas where you can step up your victory game.
4. Clear any subconscious beliefs, blocks or obstacles.
5. Trust and take empowered action based on "what would victory do".
6. Learn as you grow, get feedback, and make course corrections.
7. Enjoy the results of your victorious, purpose-full journey.

So, next time you find yourself slipping into a victim slump, remember these 7 steps to set you right again! Simply ask yourself: "What Would Victory Do?" Trust your knowing and enjoy your path to Victory.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nikkea_B_Devida

What Success Really Looks Like

There is something to be said for how a person gets to success, regardless of which aspect they are striving to find. We see success as a direct path. The quickest way to get from A to B is a straight line. By making goals and adjustments we can eventually arrive at our success. It just does not always come as we expect.

Think of success like a journey. There are many things that occur while you are on that journey. It will take twists and turns that you never knew were there. The important part is to learn from each of this miss-directions so that you can fix the mistake or use the opportunity that presents itself again. Many ways lie in our journey and there is no right or wrong answer to the direction we should be taking. This will help you to remember that no matter what occurs you can choose to be ready for what is thrown at you.

One quote attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson is, "Life is a journey, not a destination." Each person will find their own meaning in this. It really is not about reaching the end because we are all headed in the same direction in that one aspect. Have fun with each challenge you find. Open your heart to each opportunity. Take care to live passionately and fulfill your life's dreams whatever those may be.

A recent article I was reading states, "As human we always ask ourselves certain questions, why me, do I deserve this, when will I ever get through," (Ethwel, 2012, pp. 2). Try to remember that these are those challenges I was talking about above. Even I have to catch myself sometimes because I will question why does this happen to me or why me. This, in the end, doesn't matter. I remind myself to figure out what it is that I am supposed to learn from my current experience. This experience is part of what makes us older and wiser as we move through life. There is a lesson to be learned from all. Sometimes we don't realize the lesson that was learned until years later. If you keep your mind open you may be able to find the solution sooner than later.

Sometimes people feel under pressure with life because they think it may be a test. "It is a mistake to approach life as if it were a test, yet that is what most of us do," (Toomey, 1994, pp. 1). This pressure is what makes us fold under pressure. Pressure comes and the twists and turns that bring us to success can overwhelm what we are trying to accomplish. One key to help with this I have gone over in my previous posts. That is breathe and remember that only you can control yourself. There is no one inside your head controlling your actions. Thus the only way to make it through the obstacle is to understand that it is meant to be a challenge of life or better yet an opportunity presenting itself. A test can always be overcome with studying. That is where life comes into play. Each step is a unique tool that we can enjoy.

Remember that we are human. We as a species can adapt to many environments. No matter the trick that turns us from the course that we have set we can adapt our mentality and even our physicality sometimes. Einstein could project his focus so much that he was able to change science in many ways because he adapted his mentality. A woman who lifts a car off of her child adapts her physical strength because she has to. What happens when we focus both? An article I read states, "... people simply fail to appreciate the powers of human adaptation," (Moeller, 2013, pp. 5). I agree with this. We do not always realize that we can make ourselves become a better person simply by adapting to our situations.

As life throws these little, sometimes larger, curve balls at us I ask that you strive to learn something. If it is a death in the family, learn to love the little moments or something special that the person we lost would want us to learn. If it is a car accident, even not your fault, maybe patience could be learned or compassion. Everything in life will teach you a lesson if you wish to learn and if you keep an open mind. If you would like to do an assignment write some challenges down that you have had recently. In each of these challenges find opportunities that you could have either had a different attitude or worded to your self or others differently.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Collin

Own Yourself

How is life treating you? Are you creating all that you want to create? Are you fulfilling the dreams you have in your heart? Are you blessing those you want to bless?

If you are not able to answer these questions the way you would like to answer them, I have some suggestions for you.

Are you Owning Who You Are? After you take inventory of all the skills, talents, abilities, education, life experience and everything you have, are you truly standing up for yourself and owning who you are?

Too many people instead of owning who they are, seem to be making excuses for who they are. Statements are made such as "I can't start my own business because I don't have enough money." Or, "I can't have a quality relationship because I've been hurt in the past." Or, any other statement that is made that would give an excuse for not living life fully.

Here's a suggestion: take inventory of who you are, the education you have, the skills and talents you have been blessed with and your life experience you have and tell yourself and the world "THIS IS WHO I AM!!!!" Do not apologize for who you are. Yes you have made mistakes in the past, but we all have. You have made some pains in life, we all have. It's these mistakes and pains in life that allow you to identify and be real with those around you so that you can reach Your Purpose in Life.

On your road to Your Destiny, there are potholes. There are setbacks. There are detours. But, these events do not define who you are. They simply are tools for you to identify with life. When people hear your story, they think, "Wow, that sounds familiar. I remember going through that myself." These are what allow you to relate with people so that Your Vision can be fulfilled.

I can relate. I look back at my life and many times I wonder what it is that I have that relates with people around me. From my perspective, I don't have many good stories because I lived through them and they don't seem good to me. However, these exact stories are what allow me to relate to people.

I am no longer ashamed of who I am. My experiences have made me who I am. I own who I am. I know My Purpose. I know My Vision. I know My Destiny. Do you know yours?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andy_Craig

Live Inspired

Success is not supernatural! It takes hard work, dedication and commitment. To be able to achieve in life, one has to have the zeal and determination to move upstream while the struggles of life are pulling you downstream. It's an inner battle we face everyday to live or not to live, to fight or not to fight, to dream or not to dream, to get rich or to remain poor! the fact is, the key is in our hands!

Usain Bolt, the all Jamaican superstar, basking in the glory of his success in being the fastest man on earth never thought he would be where he is today. Looking back, I'm sure "speed" had not the slightest idea that Usain could keep up with him. Careful observation of his life revealed that his success did not come overnight. It took him tireless hours while the world slept to dream up being a superstar. It took mornings when we draw for the covers to snuggle in on a rainy morning for a superstar to clock 9.69s. It took restful days while we sit back to quench our thirst on hot sunny day for a successful athlete to be on top of the world.

So you are not a super star, you don't have magic feet. You don't know how to break records! You are not a fairy Godmother. You are an uninspired individual who has the potential to rise above your challenges, to be a "A" game player. Greatness is inside all of us. Dreams are achievable, start dreaming. Goals are attainable. Be inspired. LIVE INSPIRED!

It is often said that Rome wasn't built in a day. Most success stories are not overnight. It took God a whole six days to completely establish this world into what He wants it to be. Your determination should never be based on your present limitations. Your success should never be based on what you think you can do but rather on what is inside of you. Greatness does not reveal its boundaries until it is explored in its entirety.

The true you will never be revealed until you push beyond your expectations. Pushed to a point that you even surprise "You". Inspiration is all around. Never be broken by un-achieved goals, there is still time once you keep that hope alive by being consistent in your endeavors. Unchained melodies are brought about by those who whisper I can, I will I must!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sherill_G_Morgan

I Know Your Life's Purpose, Do You?

Perhaps you are someone who doesn't prescribe to the thought that humans have a purpose, that life has no meaning. It doesn't matter. Not believing that you have a purpose doesn't mean you can't participate in this activity with the life you have right now. There is no harm in it and you can't lose.

Discovering your real purpose in life doesn't have to be a long and complicated process. I want to be clear, when we discuss your life's purpose we are not talking about what you do every day to make money, your responsibilities to your family, or even your aspiration. What I am talking about here is the very reason you exist. It is quite simple and incredibly rewarding. In fact, it's so simple that many people dismiss it too easily as airy-fairy without actually exploring its legitimacy.

Life's Purpose

Your life's purpose is to serve. There are two things that you must serve. The first is to serve the people in the world. The second is to serve the Earth itself.

Our lives are defined by the relationships we have. You will build meaningful relationships with people by listening with empathy to understand. By doing this you will develop empathy, awareness, and community.

We only have purpose if the Earth is alive and thriving. By serving the Earth you will make decisions that you know will help preserve it's longevity as we know and understand it to be preserved with today's knowledge. By doing this you will be practicing empathy and awareness while contributing to the well-being of the community.

Empathy, Awareness, and Community

Good science shows us that humans are social creatures. It is not only in our nature but also in our genetic makeup as sentient beings. Therefore a sense of belonging and community is fundamentally required for our survival. However, in order to belong to communities we must contribute to them. If we don't meaningfully contribute in our community history shows that we are ostracized. In our past this was done in simpler terms, it may not seem like we do this in modern society; however, I propose that we still do it but have simply complicated the process of ostracization.

To avoid being socially removed from our communities we must be able to meaningfully contribute to them by developing nonjudgmental awareness of what it is the community needs. By doing this we are able to serve the community by fulfilling it's needs.

How to Serve

How you specifically serve is completely up to you but I would like to suggest a focus on the following things, which only encourage a sense of empathy, awareness, and community.

1. Remember, you are one of the people in the world. You can't serve others without serving yourself first. Make sure your needs are met.


2. Serve in ways that you know will not harm yourself or others in the process. Consider yourself a citizen of the world because you are. Serve in ways that acknowledge this.


3. Focus on little wins. It's not about the end goal but rather about the journey. Your life's purpose should never end if it is your life's purpose.


4. Give yourself permission to balance personal security versus your life's purpose. We still live in a world where currency is required to purchase goods and services. Take some risks though, they are always rewarding in the end.


5. Contact a life coach to help you further explore how you will fulfill your life's purpose by serving your community and serving the world.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christopher_J_Lawrence

Your Life Is About You

Everything you ever do begins and ends with you.

Every action you will take happens with the intention of bettering yourself, whether you tend to think of it that way or not. No matter how you slice it, everybody operates within a closed system of self-centeredness. The ripples of these actions taken toward bettering the self can extend outward to affect others in the process. Some people call this the ego. Others call it selfishness. Others still, even narcissism. Call it whatever you want, but it's an inescapable fact of reality, and of human nature.

No one can willingly partake in an action which he believes to be to his detriment, according to the subjective manner in which he momentarily evaluates all perceived options. If I intend harm upon myself, then by the very implication of intending it, it is no longer what I consider harmful in that moment. I may do many things which in hindsight I regret, although they gave me what I sought at the time. I may even be extremely conflicted at a moment of decision, going after what my emotional desires guide me toward, while understanding somewhere deep in my rational mind that this is not a good idea, and may come back to bite me in the long run. But the principle still stands. Everything I choose to do, I do so because I perceive it as aiding me in some way.

Of course, I'm wrong all the time. Things don't work out the way I intend them to, and I suffer as a result. In attempting to add to my own satisfaction, I fail to take into account all the pertinent variables along the way. The whole process might give me the exact opposite of what I was hoping for if I can't course correct in time. But the more knowledgeable I become about whatever complicated series of events I'm hoping to unfold, the closer the end product is to how I originally envisioned it. "Great" undertakings are only very successful when the people involved can predict with enough accuracy everything that will come to pass in transit from beginning to end. They must also be able to adapt enough to navigate through whatever new unpredictable circumstances arise and get back on course to their chosen destination.

If you can't first come to understand, and even embrace, that what you do you do for yourself, it won't mean good things for your personal success. This happens to be the exact opposite message most schoolchildren are taught anywhere in the world. The primary message of our culture, and probably most others at any time in history, has been to put other people above yourself. Serve the needs of others before assessing your own. See everyone as equals. Oddly, the only notable exception to this might be airline safety regulations, which so incessantly remind us to "secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others". The reason for that should be obvious enough. You won't be much good to anyone else if you faint first.

Whenever you put someone else's needs as a priority over your own, you do a disservice to both of you.

Doing what you don't actually perceive as the highest good for yourself, perhaps out of a sense of obligation or social pressure, almost guarantees a worsening of your circumstances in life. Service for others works wonderfully when their needs genuinely become a part of your own. When you help people because it legitimately makes you happy to do so, you are simultaneously bettering others as well as yourself. The sharing of pursuits toward happiness is a natural part of any healthy friendship, romance, business, or the raising of children. So long as every person involved is unashamedly doing the best they know how to do for themselves, and so long as that understanding overlaps and encompasses the intentions of everyone involved in any given course of action, principles of synergy automatically come into play. When executed correctly, it means everyone gains more and loses less than any could have if acting on their own.

But it all starts and ends with you. If you are at all hesitant about marching in the most direct path from where you are now to where you want to be, you'll always be limited in what you can achieve. How odd it should seem then that so much importance is placed on the principle of sacrifice for something greater than oneself. Patriotism is encouraged to the point of laying down one's freedoms, individuality, and very life for the preservation of a national identity. Various religions demand that your life and body are not your own, but the property of some entity or institution more powerful than you could ever hope to be. All of this means incurring losses of whatever else you would choose to do under optimal circumstances.

The doctrine of self-sacrifice persists because replacing other people's natural intentions with your own goals is ultimately the only sustainable way to control people. A man, once chained and shackled, knows his life is under the control of a tyrant diverting him from his chosen path. George Orwell warned us of this when he showed us that Big Brother's ultimate aim was never merely physical compliance from the masses. It was a complete and total takeover of every individual's emotional capacity to determine their own values. It was to replace the natural ego, the "self" that exists in every person at birth, with the group identity called Big Brother. The same disturbing trend exists on all scales, from the lowly family unit all the way up to the largest social organizations dominating the planet today.

Ask yourself how much of your own life is really lived for you, and not for something outside of yourself... something which somehow crept its way into your sense of identity. The answer might depress you. But the first step to solving a problem is the awareness that there is even anything wrong at all. The fewer the number of imposters you allow to take up space in your mind, the more the original sense of who you are will start to return to occupy the space you've cleared for it. And it's only when you feel confident in who you are and what you want, that you can take pride in your self-serving actions. It's the only way to get on the path to becoming an optimally-functioning human being.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregory_V_Diehl

Live the Abundant Life You Were Born to Live

Our Responsibility to Raise an Abundant Society

As I continued my own journey toward a life of abundance, I recalled conversations I had with previous colleagues, politicians and community members about poverty. Unfortunately, some people believe a specific culture, community or even business, is doomed to fail.

I feel our community leaders and professionals are ignorant to the power of thought and what a healthy self-image can do to inspire people. If they were aware, they would spend more time encouraging and empowering people instead of putting so my emphasis on statistics.

We must put more faith in people and less in the interpretation of data. People can change their situations when inspired to. We are all guardians of each other and we were born to the responsibility of accepting our role to nurture and support. One person's influence in a community can alter the energy of another person instantly.

We are doing a serious injustice to people when we judge them based on their financial, cultural and the crime status among their communities. Doing so will only attract more of the same instead of empowering change.

People will live up, or down, to the expectations of others when they lack the courage to live their own dreams. By drawing attention to a community or culture because of their lack only promotes more lack and separation from supportive resources; such as other communities to stimulate economic growth.

Do they honestly think that crime will be minimized by concentrating on the high crime rate? Do you think that statistics, assessments and not investing in the economic sustainability of a community is going to make the issues disappear?

I believe that poverty and crime are the result of personal and environmental conditioning. When a community or culture is judged collectively due to the actions of a few, it is most unfortunate and detrimental to the self-image. It is imperative that our messages empower change, instead of inviting more negativity.

Community leaders may think they are doing a community service when publicizing these statistics; however, what they are doing is sending out an invitation to the universe for every criminal, drug addict and slumlord who will take advantage of the people who live there.

I have heard former colleagues, such as social workers, physicians, and psychologists, tell me not to expect too much from a particular client because of where they live and the reputation of their family.

It doesn't matter where you live, what your family history is, how many times your father went to jail, how little money you have, or whether you were able to eat yesterday. You have the capacity to change by using your unique talents, gifts and skills for the betterment of yourself and all those involved.

You may have been born into a family that may have experienced financial hardship, but do not accept it as your own destiny. Wealth and poverty are a state of being, and this is something that you can change.

I appreciate your current situation may be beyond your physical control right now; however, you do have control over your thoughts. No matter what is happening in your life, the way that you react to that situation, is going to give you either a desirable or undesirable outcome. You get to choose.

Begin by believing you deserve an abundant life for you and your family. Imagine all that you desire in your mind as though you were watching a movie about your life. You need to make this vision within your imagination so real that your soul craves for change.

The more you feel the change, the more determined you will continue to fulfill it. You will transform your state of consciousness so you can concentrate on the finest that life has to offer. You will begin to appreciate yourself more and will take better care of your overall wellbeing.

Remember, poverty is a consequence of the lack first felt in your mind. If you have a dream, you have been given the roadway to abundance.

Model the Wealthy

Many wealthy people do not have a college degree or even a high school education. Some are from affluent backgrounds; others are from financial despair. Some were encouraged to dream big; while others were told that they were stupid and would never amount to anything. Some never had a serious problem in their life; while others were in prison or overcame serious adversities. any people love the idea of becoming wealthy and think they have to be a certain "type" of person to do so. They believe that a wealthy person must be extraordinarily intelligent and have various degrees. I assure you this is not the case.

What makes a person wealthy? Without a doubt, self-image is the mechanism that empowers all success in any person's life. It matters not what your circumstances were before this moment, you have the ability to attract, attain, and maintain a life of abundance if you are determined to develop a healthier self-image.

The wealthy believe in their own unique abilities and do not allow their shortcomings, environment or lack of knowledge to undo their desire to achieve.

They recognize their supposed shortcomings as much as their talents. By being aware of what they don't know, enables them to concentrate on what is important and what they excel at. This minimizes stress; furthermore, they are not wasting time trying to figure things out. Wealthy people develop resources, hire or outsource their limitations, disinterests and time consuming projects.

Wealthy people only became wealthy because they felt deserving of their wealth. They take the time to nurture themselves and don't dwell on the past. They are dreamers, great visionaries, and enjoy daydreaming. If you want to have an abundant lifestyle, dream big!

You can begin your journey toward a life of abundance by recognizing the abundance around you. Witness all creation for its beauty and purpose, and give thanks. Dare to dream and dream big! Research people you admire and I am certain you will be humbled to hear their struggle. Follow the footsteps of those who succeeded before you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lise_M_Durling

See Yourself for Who You Really Are

SEE YOURSELF

When you are able to be present and live in the moment within yourself, life becomes easier more balanced and more at ease. See yourself means you are able to truly see and feel yourself for who you really are. This can be applied to all areas of life, your physical body, Mental and emotional mind, your social interactions and relationships and most importantly, your relationship with yourself. It is a unique concept in this day and age to actually look inward and explore who you really are. To be able to really understand you as of you gives you not only great peace of mind but allows you to give that to others making the world around you a better place.

When you can see and really feel your body, you will be able to take better care of it. When you can see what you put into it and how it will have a positive effect on you, better more healthy choices will be made to take care of yourself. When you are able to see what is hurting either an ache or pain or muscle stiffness, you will know how to deal with it in a proper way.

When you can see yourself, mentally and emotionally; you will be able to have control over the thoughts and actions that will arise in your day to day life. Giving you more balance ease and control over all that comes into and out of your life. When you take the time and mental effort to see yourself, all of the little things that were irritating bothersome and disturbing are not important. You will be able to control yourself through difficult situations with less stress on your body and mind.

When you can truly see yourself, your body mind and spirit will be united giving you more peace more happiness and more fulfillment. Allowing the natural abundance you were born with to flow effortlessly into all aspects of your life. Seeing your-self takes some time and mental physical and spiritual energy, it is a process. It is a combination of doing feeling and practicing. Taking the time each day or a few days a week to take a step back and step into your-self, is a simple lifestyle adjustment starting small and growing from there. It is a way for you to live with more ease more flow and more abundance in every area of your life. Living your truest highest self, is seeing yourself. See yourself for more fun more joy and peace and more enjoyment in all areas of life.

Be present, live in the current moment, be wherever you are wherever you are. It is what the ancient Yogis learned through many years of of deep deep meditation. Be able to block out the useless garbage that pollutes your mind and body and get rid of it so you can go about living in a happy positive feel good way. Its a journey so take your time.

Seeing and discovering yourself is what life is all about so you can tap into your natural abundance. Taking the time to discover more about you is the best thing you can do for others

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erik_Jacobson

What Do You Love About Your Life?

And by 'LOVE' I do not mean 'like' or 'feel comfortable with'. I mean what aspects of your life or activities in your life do you love to the point where you could not live without them!

I started thinking about this the other day (yes, I know - dangerous at the best of times) and about how I spend my time. What activities do I participate in: big and small, work and play, real and fantasy, and I even included daydreaming! What do I love to do versus what is just okay or even frustrating or stressful?

What shocked me was how few things I could readily and easily think of that I do on a day-to-day basis that I really love doing! Activities that light me up, that create sparks, and multi-colored fireworks, and cause my life to bubble over with enthusiasm and the unconditional unbridled joy usually associated with childhood.

What I realized was that my life was predictable and full of routine. I go to work to a job I like surrounded by people I like, most of the time. I come home to a family I love, most of the time, and spend time on hobbies and activities that I like. But this was all too serious. There was no fun in my life. No sparks! No fireworks! No passion! No play! No adventure! And one of my most treasured personal core values is adventure. What is wrong with this picture?

When did life get so serious?

Why did life remain so serious!?!

So I started making a list of all the things that I love about my life as it is right now, warts and monotones and all. Lists like this can be very informative. I took my time and made the effort to identify the things in my life that I really love!

OK. I'll be the first to admit that the list was not very impressive and tended towards the short side. Even still I was quite surprised to see how many things I actually do love about my life, and the types of things I love about my life. And here I was thinking my life had become an endless stream of monotone so-so yawn inducing activities! Maybe there's still a few sparks and fireworks in my life after all.

I was particularly surprised to notice how many little things there are in my life that I absolutely love! Things that are so much a part of my authentic self that I had taken them for granted. I had failed to notice and appreciate not only how much I love these things about me but how much I love having them in my life. Not everyone makes homemade lemon zucchini bread and tops it with homemade lemon curd but I do, and this is one of the little things that I love about me and my life.

Once I began to notice the little things that I love about my life, I also began to notice that the things that I love about me offer clear glimpses into what my authentic self looks like and feels like. They clearly represent my personal core values in one way or another, reminding me that I am, in many small ways, honor my authentic self every day. For example, one of my personal core values is creativity and baking helps me tap into that part of my authentic self. And this is why I love baking so much and why I can bring sparks and multi-colored fireworks back into my life every time I bake!! Sparks and fireworks and enthusiasm... oh my!! This is what life is all about.

It's a start - but only a start! These small things that I love in about me and my life are turtle steps to uncovering my authentic self and honoring my personal core values.

Now it's your turn. What do you love about your life? And what does this tell you about your authentic self?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Bolender

Are You Really Paying Enough Attention To The Important Things In Your Life?

I was reading an article some time ago about a father who was pursuing his dream of becoming the best Dad to his children. He didn't have much, he didn't have lots of money, or material things...

He didn't even have a good job to support his family the way he wanted to; but you know what, he was happy! He was elated to see how well his kids were doing with their lives, even though the material things that many people crave for were missing.

Many of us tend to focus all of our attention on money and material things so much that we sometimes overlook the MOST important things in life. Many people take friends, family, and relationships for granted. They focus entirely on things that don't amount to much, things that are "here today, gone tomorrow."

What makes you happy? What is your biggest dream?

If you are obsessed with the things that can be bought with money, or be created by man - then you are missing the boat. You are missing your reason for being here.

I think it was T.D. Jakes who said: "If the problems that you have can be fixed by man or with money, then you DON'T have a problem."

Some years ago I was meeting with a number of pastors in my community. We wanted to setup an organization to monitor the lives of young people who had dedicated their lives to serving their community. We got into this conversation about service, and we discovered that many people still didn't understand how important this part of their life was.

Here was a group of kids between the ages of twelve and seventeen who were aware of this vital part of life, this critical component of our very existence, while many adults have never even thought about it.

Many people have spent their time here on this earth and left, and have NEVER thought of doing something for someone else without the question, "What is in it for me?"

There are even many so-called christians out there who have not been able to grasp the true meaning of what christianity really means. It's about service! Your ONLY objective here on this earth is to serve willingly, and without any expectations of reward.

"Nothing is more honourable than doing a favor for someone who can't return it!"

What drives you? What makes you get up every morning to go to a job that you hate, to spend all day with a boss that you despise, and to give lip service to your coworkers not because you want to, but because you have to? What makes you put up with all that crap?

Is it just to make a living, just to get a paycheck at the end of the month? Is it just to bear the name that you have a job, that you are employed? What is it that drives you to do all that?

There are many people who are striving for success. They want to make a difference in their lives, to provide for their family, to make more money so they can buy the things that they want, and that's okay. But there is something much more important than that. The person who you become through this process is much more important than what you get from it.

From my perspective, the relationships that blossom along this journey, the new friends you make, the life you can provide for your family, the charitable organizations that you are a part of not because of profiling, or trying to project a certain image, but because you want to serve, that is what makes life worthwhile.

Isn't life about that deep desire that you have developed within you to make a difference in the life of someone else, to leave your mark? Isn't that what life is all about?

Now, if a bunch of young people could be looking at ways to improve the quality of life to senior citizens and sick people who are poor. If they are trying to provide support to other kids who are struggling with peer pressure, and kids who are struggling with drugs and alcohol problems...

What is your excuse?

If a father could be so elated to know that his kids were healthy, they were not involved with drugs, they were not in any gangs, even though they didn't have much money. If a father could be so happy to know that his 25 year daughter had waited until she got married, before she had her first child, his first grandchild...

What really makes you happy?

That is the question you need to ask yourself today! The answer to that question can really set some things in motion, so think about it long and hard my friend. The answer to that question CAN make a big difference in how your life turns out.

Let's make a difference!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Godfrey_Thaxter

Love Yourself - You Have the Fire Inside You

I heard "I don't want to live." Shocking and Disturbing.

To give up on life is not the solution. "To live" Is.

Sounds impossible, feels insecure, but yes, IT IS POSSIBLE.

This LIFE we are in is... a gift. A beautiful and absolute blessing. Let us keep worries aside. Wake up to the morning sun with a smile. Listen to some music. It comforts the soul. Go for a long walk in the green pastures, put bare feet on grass. Feel the fragrance of wet leaves. Inhale the sweetness of the flowers that are blooming and refreshing. Take a cycle or a car to the road that carry some golden memories where you drove with your loved ones and feel the life in each moment you lived and are living. Watch the bird fly freely among the cool wind, the waves that come gushing over the calm sand... You will FEEL LIFE...

It is all inside. The light, the fire, the ignition to the thoughts. Hidden in the heart and soul. All the above statements rejuvenate your mind. Keep the faith. Love your own being. Love your people. It enlivens you. LIVE THIS ONE BEAUTIFUL LIFE. Cherish and feel the love. Please, DON'T EVER GIVE UP.

Help someone in need, help someone to get relieve from pain. All these add to your happiness. Bring smile to a gloomy face. It will help you smile more, add to your blessings in return.

Life is all about give and take. Happiness and sorrow come and go. Nothing stays. Let time take its own course. Follow it as it moves on... Do not fall into the trap of hurry or fury. Do not ponder over why's and how's. All changes as day to night and then again to a new day... Live and love life, love each moment just passed and is coming your way. The fruit turns sweet with time. Never feel that you are weak. Never allow pessimistic feelings hover over your conscience. Together with your inner strengths, love, compassion, care and will power, you will overcome all fears.

Perspire... It will lighten your weight. Let a few tears flow... After the rain, remember... A beautiful rainbow shimmers in the blue sky. As the rain washes the dirt, the tears too will dry. It will help you shunt your burden off your heart. Make you smile again. Believe in yourself. Do not let storms or thunders shatter your faith. You will not always fail. Let the hurricane pass. YOU WILL BE THE WINNER, touch the PINNACLE.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Avreen_K

Self-Discipline - Is Your Top Success Tool

I am sure you are like everyone else out there and you want to achieve meaning in your life. There are unfortunately no short cuts to success or to invite meaning and fulfilment, into your experience. They are all the result of self-discipline and consistent commitment. Of course the moment you start down your journey towards the success you have visualised, you will start to enjoy the fruits of your endeavours. The challenge is to remain focused, patient and driven enough to stay on the path you have chosen. This is where discipline comes into it.

What drives you?

Self-discipline, is that driver, which will get you off your butt every day, so that you will actually take the action, you need to take to succeed. The sooner you start down the road of daily discipline and then remain committed to take goal specific action daily, the sooner you will achieve the success you desire and the better will be the results you will achieve in the end too.

Responding to new Ideas

So when should respond to any new idea you have? The sooner you respond and begin to take action, while the idea is still hot and steaming away in your brain, the better your chances you have at achieving the success you want. This is because your desire, drive and passion are at their strongest, when any new idea is fresh in your brain and the emotion is at its peak.

ACT NOW!

As soon as great idea enters your mind, don't wait around too long before you do anything about it.

For example: When you make the decision to start down the road towards your own personal development. Don't think about it for too long, take action immediately. Go online, while the idea is still piping hot in your mind and order that first personal development book, or go to the bookstore immediately and buy the book.

The next step is to schedule time every day to read the book. When you take action and actually use that time to read, you measure your progress daily, you will actually start to see positive results in your life. Don't forget to reward yourself, every time you keep your commitment to read. The daily reward can be as simple as a smile and allowing the glow of satisfaction to flow over you. This reward will help encourage you to repeat the behaviour every day.

Law of Diminishing Intent

As you know your drive, determination and passion is at its highest, when any new idea first comes to your mind. As time passes, so too does the drive and passion you feel, also dwindle away to nothing. The secret to turn any great idea into something meaningful is to try to translate the idea and intent, into action as soon as possible. If you wait too long the passion dies and eventually the great idea cannot even be found any longer.

Don't Hesitate - Take Action

There is no substitute for taking action, whilst the emotions are still high and the idea is strongly carousing through your brain.

Action Idea: If you want to improve your health, don't spend too much time thinking about it. Immediately go buy a book on nutrition, join a gym and then schedule time to attend gym every day. Remember whatever gets scheduled gets done. How about lying on the floor immediately and doing a few push-ups. The sooner you take action the better will be the results and the greater the possibility of turning the idea into something meaningful. Don't wait for too long, otherwise the wisdom of the moment is wasted.

Daily Discipline Breeds Self-worth

When you keep the commitments you make with yourself, one of the greatest benefits, which will flow to you, as a result of acting on great ideas when they come to you, is a feeling of contentment and satisfaction.. How great do you feel when you keep commitments you make with yourself? The art of self-discipline breeds, self-worth, which in turn helps you to feel better about yourself and your self-esteem, improves too. The more positive you are and the greater your belief in yourself, the greater the chances that you will succeed at the things you attempt. This will inspire you to always try your best.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=A Horton

How To Be An Entrepreneur And Get Rid Of Anxiety

All of us come to this world being equal, but some experiences make us exceptional. Success stories of world-class entrepreneurs tell us that so many abused, mistreated and the most challenged people achieved so much more than others. Question is: what makes people achieve big things? How did college drop-outs like Bill Gates, Richard Branson and Steve Jobs build their businesses? Where did they get entrepreneurship ideas?

Security

We all love it and it makes us happy in one way or another. Staying in the comfort zone feels okay. You're surrounded by friends and family, you got that 9-5 job, you drive that Ford Focus, and you don't think too much about the future and you're coping with anxiety.

Living In A Lie

6 AM Monday morning, you wake up. Cup of coffee, quick breakfast and you're off to meet the day: same road, same traffic, same people, same office, and same job. You get back home, grab can of beer or glass of wine and turn the TV on. News: crime, accidents, wars, drugs, corruption. They want you to see that. They know what people really like - bad news. Deep down there we all enjoy it and that's how they keep their ratings up. It's all about making money folks, and it's bad for you. TV, Newspapers, Magazines are full of this "noise" and crap from all around the world - telling you what to eat, what to wear and what kind of toothbrush to buy. Soon you will be asking yourself: How to get out of this depression?

Light At The End Of The Tunnel

So you may start wondering how to become successful in life? How to get rich quick? Or what career suits me best? If you talk to people who have succeeded they will tell you what makes the difference in their lives. And many of them will tell you they don't watch TV, they don't read all that crap in the newspapers and they don't believe what government tells them. They have their own perception of life and that is what makes the biggest difference. Perception is everything. "Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out". People like Tony Robbins, Bob Proctor and Jack Canfield may inspire you and teach you how to deal with depression and anxiety that today's routine creates. Tony Robbins's seminars can really make a difference in your life. While you may be skeptic, if you have a secret desire to succeed, you will discover the "other" way of doing things. Opportunities will appear and you will see what makes the "difference". You will learn how to be an entrepreneur.

Overwhelm

At that moment you may think - now it's the perfect time to change everything and you might grab that opportunity. However, all this change will bring more questions and you may not have all the answers. This can overwhelm you; you might want to try doing things differently, but now the comfort zone will be gone - you will feel lost. It might look like a huge mess; friends and family will discourage you.

Persistence

Don't give up! It all depends on how much you want. At some point you will hate it, but it's how much you really want to succeed. How much you want that new lifestyle, new car, new connections, and new relationship? Most of people give up because they don't want that. They don't want that so much. So they go back to their daily routines, their comfort zones and settle with the average. And it's not bad, but is that what you really want? "Not bad"?

Your Goal

So how to get rid of anxiety? You will face the worst just before you get it. All of the entrepreneurs can tell you that. When you hit the wall, remember, there's money and success on the other side of it. So you have to climb all over it, stay enthusiastic, stay bold and stay brave. There's no elevator to success, all of us have to take the stairs. I'm not saying it will be easy, I am saying it will be worth it.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aurelijus_Terminas

No Nonsense Guide to Positive Thinking

The cup is either half-full, or half empty. Your attitude controls your altitude. Stinkin thinkin makes your life smell. In this brief article, I am going to show you how to enjoy a positive lifestyle.

• Why is everybody always pickin on me?
• Joe Btfsplk.
• What can I do?
• Living the Positive Life

1. There are two songs with the lyrics why is everybody always pickin on me? There are times when you can feel that the whole world is out to get you. You can put your tail between your legs and slink off in frustration, or you can pull yourself up by your bootstrap. A positive attitude is an option, not a chore. Contrary to what you may think, the world is not out to get you. Your close friends like you to succeed and be happy. Avoid all others.


2. Joe Btfsplk was the cartoon character in the Lil Abner comic strip. He walked around with a cloud over his head while raining all the time. I am sure you have felt you had a cloud over your head, and it rained on every parade you had. The expression "every cloud has a silver lining" is more than a euphemism. Many times while flying an airplane, I have climbed through the clouds to a beautiful sunny day on top of the clouds. Either you can choose to operate under the cloud, or you can climb into the sunshine. Again, the choice is yours.


3. There are some things that you can do to change your attitude:
1. Stop it! Stop thinking negative thoughts - it is easier than you think.
2. Begin by thinking about the good things that you have (home, job, and family).
3. Read a positive thinking book.
4. Tape some positive quotes to your bathroom mirror - read them daily.
5. Listen to positive thinking tapes and videos.
6. If you are a religious person, read the Bible, Koran or the Torah.
7. Meditate, whether you are religious or not. Clear your thoughts.


4. A positive lifestyle is entirely possible and to be desired. You can look at your life as a glass of water - half-full or half-empty. Living your life is a choice. You can choose what comes into your mind. Speaking good, positive thoughts and words will soon having you thinking like that. Speaking negative words will have you thinking negative.

So, what is it going to be? A life filled with optimism and joy, or a negative, miserable life with the rain falling every day. Remember, the choice is totally yours. When you meet someone, who filled with hatred, negative speaking, make a hasty retreat, and remind yourself do not do that again!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_T._White

3 Dangerous Negative Words

There have been countless articles, seminars, books and discussions about the value of maintaining a positive attitude, and most of us would agree that it is far more productive to maintain a positive approach and frame of mind than either being neutral or negative. However, in our everyday lives and activities, we often, nearly automatically revert to permitting negativity pervade and dominate our consciousness. One of the best and easiest ways of training ourselves to approach life from a can - do, as opposed to can't do perspective, is to begin by concentrating on eliminating these three negative words (or phrases) from our oral and written vocabulary: avoid saying problem or thinking about scenarios as problems; never begin one's process by saying that you'll try; and don't focus on why it can't be done.

1. Instead of perceiving obstacles as problems, view them instead as challenges. Take a moment, close your eyes and think about the image that you perceive when you think about a problem instead of thinking of a challenge. Our perceptions of a problem is one of something to be avoided, that we want to evade or run away from, and is, at best, unpleasant and unhappy. On the other hand, when we think of an obstacle in terms of being a challenge, we often perceive of an experience similar to a sporting event, where overcoming the obstacle is invigorating, refreshing and fun. Would you rather face a challenge or a problem? While most people would objectively state that a challenge is better, when a perceived crisis or obstacle arises, most people revert to thinking about problem solving and having a problem. How can you be thinking positively if you consider yourself a problem solver?

2. When someone is asked to do something that he knows is worth the effort, or valuable to either himself or to others that he values, or both, we often hear people say, "I'll try." Unfortunately, the reality is that using the word, try, is actually a negative one, because it brings up thoughts of why you might not be able to get it done. Rather than trying, next time begin the process by saying, "I will."

3. When a new idea or approach is brought up that addresses a need, and therefore, requires either a change or some sort of action, the vast majority of people react by stating what is wrong with the idea, and why it can't be done or get done! Instead, approach and welcome needed changes with the philosophy, "Here's what I'm going to do to get it done."

We often read and speak about using positive affirmations to enhance our attitude. However, unless we change our vocabulary and mindset, it is often our negative words that are our worst enemies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Brody

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Persistence: The Difference Between Achieving And Merely Trying

Being the most successful person in the room isn't just about being the smartest or the best educated. It is not about who has the highest IQ or has been fortunate enough to be introduced to the right people. Yes all of these things help, but very often what really makes the difference is persistence.

Persistence means keeping on going when things get rough. Persistence means to keep giving it a go when at first you fail. Persistence means to keep pushing through to become really great at something when others give it away.

Being prepared to persist is the difference between near enough is good enough and excellence. It is the difference between achieving and merely trying. It is the difference between giving it a red hot go and letting go of what really is possible before you even really get started.

Persistence builds character. When we achieve something easily we often don't even recognize the milestone. But when we have fought for it, it seems worthwhile. We feel worthwhile. And the learning from the struggle is profound and lasting.

Most of the great discoveries of our world or the achievement of greatness have come from persistence. Thomas Edison took 1000 attempts to discover the answer to the electric light bulb. The Wright Brothers failed many times before they successfully took that famous first flight and Michael Jordan missed more than 9000 shots in his career to becoming one of the worlds greatest sportsmen.

To persist at anything - is a choice. At any time we can choose to keep going, keep fighting, keep learning, keep finding ways to achieve OR we can choose to give up, say that we tried but failed or simply move onto something else that seems easier or more fun.

Like anything, leadership success takes persistence.

• To be a great leader is a life long journey. It takes dedication to learning, to growth, to improvement of skills.

• It takes persistence to completion of projects, delivery of strategy and the achievement of the business vision.

• It requires a long term commitment to coaching and mentoring your team to grow their skills and capabilities.

• It takes strength of character to fight the urge to avoid the tasks that you dislike or you find hard to do and to build your skill in these areas that don't come so naturally to you.

But more than anything, persistence is about belief; belief in you! Without belief that you are good enough, smart enough or worthy enough it is so often too tempting to give up when things get hard, boring, challenging or painful. Belief gives you the drive to continue.

And if you don't have belief in you... seek to believe in the system, your mentor, you team, to push you on to achieve; to keep you going. When I first started out in my own business, I had a dream and big goals. At first I didn't have 100% belief that I had what it took to start a business, so I found a mentor and a system that I believed in. When my belief in me wavered, my mentor and the system propped me up until I developed belief in me.

The one thing to get clear on here, is that there is no over night success! Success in any area of our life takes persistence and hard work. And without it you are only dreaming. Remember, persistence is a choice.

Do you have unwavering belief in you, that you have what it takes achieve your goals?

Be honest with yourself... Are you demonstrating persistence and doing everything you can to achieve your goals?

Jane Benston is a leadership consultant, coach and speaker. She works with leaders at all levels who want to make a bigger impact. She is dedicated to building confident, skilled leaders who can lead high performing teams to improved profitability and business growth.

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3 Important Personal Development Aspects to Consider for Self Growth

Many people aim to make daily self growth one of their lifelong goals, because they see the need to grow in all aspects of their lives. However, what's sad is that many don't consider the 3 important personal development aspects needed for healthy self growth.

Yes, you heard me right. Self growth is important, but the aspects that you aim to grow in have to be right in order for it to be effective in your life. And I believe this is true for anyone.

So what are the 3 important personal development aspects? They are:

The First Aspect - Improving Your Self-Awareness

Self-awareness simply means being aware of yourself. That includes your strengths, flaws, gifting and more. And that comes first before the other personal development aspects because without knowing yourself fully, you won't be able to know how to proceed with your self growth plans.

The truth is, nobody knows you better than yourself, and if you're not sure about your strength, weaknesses and more, you can take a piece of paper and jot them down,

It's important you don't rush this through, because you want to make sure you got them covered as much as possible without missing them out.

Also, some people I've counselled say they don't have any strengths or gifting. I can tell you that's totally untrue. It's different for everyone, and there must be something you're better at than others.

So take your time to do this to get a clear picture of yourself. But remember, don't rush this through.

The Second Aspect - Knowing and Building Your Own Identity

Everyone is different, and each individual will only thrive if they know what they want. And knowing what you want begins with first knowing your own identity. And that's the second personal development aspect for self growth.

From my experience, I know that if you rely on other people for your identity, you'll be lost and you can't achieve proper personal growth.

Find out what makes you, you. Don't copy the way others talk and behave just because they seemed to be well liked by others. Discover how you talk and behave, and then work on improving your own identity.

I can promise you this. If you can be the best you, you will be well liked by others, despite your identity. People want to experience who you really are, and when that happens, you'll be surrounded by people who will love to hang out with you, and you'll be able to develop your character further.

How's that for self growth?

The Final Aspect - Discovering and Developing Your Talents

This final personal development aspect deals with talents that you have, not talents that others have but you don't.

Why do I say that? Because if you admire others for a talent that they have but you don't, you might be tempted to pursue that talent though you don't have it. That will sabotage your self growth, so be careful.

Everyone has a God-given talent, including you. And for you to have a healthy self growth, develop those God-given talents. You'll realize that you'll be able to develop your talents much faster and much more easily than others because it's God-given.

Sometimes, it takes a while before you discover what your talents are, so don't be afraid to try new things. You might just discover what your talents are if you choose to be open about discovering new things.

So there you have it, the 3 personal development aspects for effective self growth. Keep them in mind and remember to include them in your self growth plan for a healthy development of your life.

And by the way, self growth becomes much easier when you learn how to master your thinking. And all personal development aspects all hinge on the way you think too.

So if you want your self growth journey to start right, I suggest you check out SuccessSwitch.com. It's a resource written by a self made millionaire, and it has already benefited thousands in their personal development aspects. Check it out before it runs out!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_Gellatly