Positive Attitude – Managing The Too-Busy Lifestyle
By · CommentsDo we tend to cram too much into our days and lives? How many tasks are too many for a healthy, balanced lifestyle?
For my own personal planning, I like to use Jack Canfield’s productivity tip called the “Rule of Five” which is listing five “to-dos” that are manageable, doable and clear in terms of one’s goals for the next day. My list WAS manageable for awhile but I lately find the list is overrun with way too many disjointed tasks and actions that I frantically try to get done. So I need to go back to streamlining and giving better thought to what I wish to accomplish. And just how I wish to spend divide up my days between work and pleasure.
Sometimes I believe it is where I live — that Long Island as part of the greater metropolitan area, breeds what I am coming to think of as the “too-busy” lifestyle. Or maybe it is now at the life stage I am at that my brain is just chock full of ideas, plans, as well as events, obligations, chores, etc. that pull me in every direction. Or that I ALLOW to pull me in every direction.
There are volumes written about time management and I myself write much about the beauty of living in the now moment. Yet when I pull back and get an objective glance at the multitasking that has become all too familiar to me, I realize that I need to do some real work on shifting this too-busy reality.
Do I truly have an answer about managing the too-busy lifestyle — perhaps not, since the way of shaping your day is a personal decision. However, I encourage you (as well as myself) not to lose sight of what is truly significant and part of our foundation for living a positive and connected life.
Do not be too busy to:
- Awake with happy anticipation and greet your day as if you expect fantastic events to unfold and all things positive to flow to you.
- Hold on to your light. Find your center, achieve your balance and focus on what is good within you as well as externally. Immerse yourself in an attitude of appreciation. Remain connected to your inner guidance.
- Shine your light for others. Allow the wellspring of compassion to always supply you with kindness toward others, whether they be human or animal.
- Remember your connection to the Divine, Source, your higher consciousness – whatever you personally relate to. And be joyful and honor that connection!
- Find pure bliss and peacefulness in each living, breathing moment, which means making an effort to focus on the present moment with clarity. Empower yourself with this simple but profound concept.
What about your own reality? Do you pace yourself well and manage your time in a coherent and balanced way? I’d love to know your thoughts, so please take a moment to post a comment here on my blog and I promise I won’t be too busy to read and respond to it!
Affirmations:
- When I awake, I look forward to my day with joyful enthusiasm and anticipation.
- I focus my rapt attention on living in the clarity of the now moment.
- I find it easy to shine my light of compassion and understanding to help and encourage others.
How do you usually feel on your birthday? You may be nostalgic, you may be joyful, you may be raring to celebrate, or you could even be a little thoughtful. Thoughts about the day one arrived here in this physical world can run the gamut of emotion, but regardless of which end of the emotional spectrum, one’s feelings can often be quite intense. Birthdays stir up emotions — and sometimes soul-searching.
Maybe we reflect back on what we have accomplished, or maybe we look back at the opposite — what we haven’t. However, I am going to speculate that most people’s ultimate goal is to acknowledge the day that they came into this physical plane and celebrate the event. I do like to think that most people choose to embrace the joyfulness of the day.
On Facebook, I always make an effort to wish everyone a Happy Birthday on their special days – not an easy task when you have over 700 friends. But I feel it is important to reach out to connect and send positive thoughts on one’s birthday. The other day, a friend who was extremely grateful for my good wishes, posted a lovely thank-you image on my Wall with the caption: “My birthday July 24th.” Which quickly confused my other friends into thinking it was MY birthday (even though my March birthday is clearly posted in my information section) instead of someone else. So I had removed the image, but not before I received some lovely good wishes. And those thoughtful wishes actually uplifted my energy that day in a significant way!
I got into some messaging with the friends that had sent them, explaining that it was not really my birthday but that this gave me the neat idea that we should treat every day as if it were our birthday — and reach for joy and celebration more regularly! Everyone wholeheartedly agreed.
When I was a teenager, I had a large colorful poster on the wall with the image of a glorious sunrise and the anonymous saying “”With every rising of the sun, think of your life as just begun.” That saying has remained a favorite of mine throughout my life and a clear reminder that with each day, there is that glowing chance to begin anew.
So I feel motivated to share these thoughts with you. Can you capture or recapture that sense of anticipation and exhilaration that comes with the promise of the sunrise on one’s birthday? We all look forward to the good wishes, the comaraderie, some cards and gifts, special attention. It is that vibrant feeling that we have that morning of the day to come as vibrating with clearly different energy.
So go for it — imagine that today is your birthday! How do you wish to shape your day — and your energy? Do something to celebrate YOU, to celebrate your specialness, your unique personality and own life path. If you need to make a shift, then today is the day to begin. And wish yourself a Happy Birthday!
Affirmations:
- I celebrate the beauty, joy and uniqueness of each day.
- I strive for harmony and balance in all that I do, each day of my life.
- Living in the now moment helps me tune into powerful feelings of optimism, self-acceptance and tranquility.
Can one really tap into that “raw” and powerful form of inner guidance that resides deep within? And how can you actually access your Higher Self?
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has that innate ability to connect with the higher, more knowing aspect of their being, which we have come to know as the “Higher Self.” Sometimes we refer to it as the Higher Consciousness. Your Higher Self is theoretically your connection to Source, to the Universe and to the infinite knowledge and wisdom that abounds in that ethereal and all-knowing place.
And connecting is only one piece of it — it is really listening to that inner voice, and following your own guidance that is also essential. As humans, we tend to second guess ourselves too much. We have often come so far away from our innate intuitive natures that we often fail to heed the best guidance that comes from the feelings in our heart and our psyche.
One recent personal experience of not listening to my inner guidance involved the hiring of a Realtor to sell our house. We narrowed the choice to three agents and interviewed (or should I say “grilled”) all of them, with a long list of questions. My husband was very strong on wanting to use the one who sold his friend’s house and I believe that was the basis of his choice. She was very pleasant, armed with a whole slew of written recommendations and professional designations. However, there was something about her that did not resonate with me, something I felt in my heart and my energetic vibration.
The bottom line is that within the four months (contract length), our house did not sell (and we truly feel it had been priced fairly according to market.) There were many actions along the way that were not very savvy on her part, and a number of omissions. Furthermore, she acted unprofessionally toward the end of the contract. It was a disheartening experience.
Several nights ago, I was up tossing and turning (not the norm for me) reflecting on how could I have been so wrong in choosing this salesperson. As clear as day, the scene of her original interview replayed across the screen of my mind, bringing me back to one red flag — a moment of clarity where my inner guidance had sprung to attention. And that was her statement, “Oh I don’t have to show your house, I just have to post it on the internet.” Why had I hired a real estate agent who had no plans to ever personally show the house?
My inner guidance had noted this blip in her statement and her energetic vibration, yet failed to register the importance of it. (Of course, everything is so much easier to see in hindsight.) I had sensed something so strongly about her, yet just ignored it. And I was quite upset with myself for that.
Which brings us back to the question: how do I know if it is truly my Higher Self? Here are some suggestions:
1) Let your ego step aside. For those who do Reiki, part of our understanding is the quest to let our egos and personalities step aside, so we can be a clear channel for the energy. For anyone to connect with your Higher Self, it’s helpful to get into a similar mindset. Consciously make an effort to really let go of the ego part of yourself, even for a short time, to allow a more crisp, tight connection to the inner voice of wisdom.
2) Hear that inner voice. You may need to strive for a few moments of quiet, tuning in, but ASK for the guidance within. And LISTEN.
3) Recognize that insistent good-feeling voice as opposed to those panicked “what am I going to do” sensations of anxiety. Your Higher Self communicating with you results in your feeling good about your plan, idea, etc. When dealing with challenges, you will feel a palpable sense of relief, a stepping up to the next level of the emotional scale. It can be almost a feeling of “ahhhhhh” or “ah-hah!” If you are feeling very mixed emotion, great turbulence or just not feeling good or clear about a decision or an observation, then it is probably your ego speaking and not your Higher Self.
4) Trust. It’s essential to release any doubts or negativity surrounding this. Trust that you are deeply and profoundly tapping in to the most high-vibration, wise aspect of yourself.
5) Tune in consistently and regularly. Personally, I believe we have access to our inner guidance all the time, not just on special occasions or through particular challenges and obstacles. We just need to recognize and acknowledge that connection. And then of course one must really “listen” and follow through with appropriate action.
Affirmations:
- I consistently tune into the wisdom and guidance of my Higher Self.
- I listen to my inner voice and know that my intuitive sense is powerful.
- It is easy for me to make decisions that are highly beneficial for me.
Living in the Now – Capture the Bliss of the Moment
By · CommentsOn my recent vacation, I lounged on the steps of the outdoor pool, enjoying the coolness of the water in contrast to the hot midday sun, my husband, Michael, next to me. A cute young tow-headed boy (we later learned he was six years old) was practicing his swimming by propelling himself from the pool steps into the outstretched arms of his dad. It was fun to watch the pleasant father/son interaction. I leaned toward my husband, musing “Of course they are really enjoying this time, but neither one realizes that in the grander perspective, how really significant these moments can be.” My husband nodded knowingly.
Recently, my husband’s cousin had transferred 8mm movies of various childhood times onto DVD. My husband received a copy of the DVD, and we both watched it nearly spellbound, riveted to the ancient footage of Michael, perhaps just four years of age, playing in a pool with his dad. He, too, was perfecting his swimming skills in the same way. His dad eagerly opened his arms, catching my husband, who gleefully clasped his arms around his father’s neck. The moment was heartwarming and intensely moving, as it was a glimpse back in time into my husband’s close and loving relationship with his father.
When Michael was an older teenager, his father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, beginning a lengthy and prolonged deterioration in his dad’s health. He changed from a vital young man to a dependent invalid before passing away after many years. I never had the chance to meet Michael’s dad, but viewing the videos was so amazing and touching, and gave me a clear sense of the affectionate bond he and his dad had shared.
At least some of these precious childhood memories had been captured on video, but even if they had not, Michael’s joyful memories remain strong and clear in his heart.
So fast forward to my recent poolside observation — the dad probably had not given any thought to the significance of capturing the moment and freeze-framing it in the “camera lens” of his mind and heart. But by carving out this moment of interconnectedness, he was creating a very powerful emotional and visual memory for his young son that will likely remain crystal clear throughout the son’s lifetime, perhaps long after his dad is gone.
So, as it is said, seize the moment. Even those everyday ones that may seem insignificant at the time. You don’t need to assess these times or try to decide whether or not they are important — just immerse yourself in the pure bliss. However simple that bliss might be. For they impact our lives as well as those around us, sometimes in very grand and far-reaching ways.
Affirmations:
- I make every effort to immerse myself in the joy of each moment.
- I focus on the bliss of simple pleasures — and feel empowered.
- I know that relaxed and affectionate times spent with loved ones can create powerful bonds and memories.
Money. We talk about it, think about it, write about it, strive to have enough of it. There are a million books telling us how to make a million bucks! Our own personal relationships with money are ever-changing and often filled with drama.
But how objective are you when observing others people’s relationships with money? Does the way another person interacts and perceives finances affect you?
My own relationship with people has been influenced by their relationships with money — or more specifically, how they choose to spend money. What I mean is that I am not in complete resonance with all levels of conspicuous consumption. I sometimes find it difficult to be understanding of the curious and (my perceived) wasteful spending of others. And yet, in the scheme of things, the spending of others is truly not my business.
I happen to live in an area where many people enjoy spending in a lavish way. For instance, if I make a new acquaintance and she shows off her pair of $400 shoes (supposedly one of many) I might not be truly comfortable in courting this particular friendship. Now, if someone buys numerous pairs of $400 shoes and is a great humanitarian, or volunteers regularly for a needy cause, then this paints that person in a different light (in my eyes) as opposed to an individual who just delights in collecting extravagant pairs of shoes. So that’s where my human-ness comes in and my challenge is to remain non-judgmental. Because personally, though I have numerous pairs of shoes, the thought of spending said amount on just one pair of shoes is totally outside my realm of thinking. (With women, why does it often come down to the shoes…)
My husband and I have ended up at dinners where the major topic of conversation was “stuff” — how much everyone has, what kind of techie toys and gadgets are part of one’s personal inventory. This has included one-upsman-ship regarding vehicles and vacations. We didn’t enjoy these dinners. and had no idea prior that is the way the conversation would turn.
Certain very spiritual individuals sometimes equate money with attachment. This means attachment to our physical plane here. These individuals do not view the concept of attachment in a positive way. For anything that attaches us to the physical realm will not help us adjust when we do leave this world and move along on our purely spiritual journey. However, a variation of that old saying, “When in the physical life, do as the living” which means it is perfectly okay to enjoy those earthy aspects of living — such as accumulating wealth and those physical possessions that bring us pleasure!
Also, it is important not to confuse the concepts of money and abundance. Abundance does not only have to be financial — it can be an abundance of love, of friends, etc. An abundance of joyful people surrounding us is an extremely positive aspect. Or it can be an abundance of shoes.
To set the record straight, there is nothing wrong with having money. It is wonderful to be in the flow of great financial abundance. To achieve that kind of abundance and invite more of it into our life experience, I strongly believe that we need to look at money in a friendly, uplifting way. And it is essential not to get too caught up in other people’s relationships with money, as that detracts from your own more positive focus of attracting more financial prosperity into your life. As for me, with some of my healing background, I have interestingly enough come to view money as an energy exchange…
What are your thoughts on any of this? Are you able to detach yourself from the money habits of others? Do you personally enjoy accumulating stuff — or are you completely the opposite? Be honest and leave a comment here. I promise to be open-minded!
Affirmations:
- All kinds of abundance flow freely into my life.
- I am understanding and tolerant of others, even when our views differ.
- I see myself as worthy of great financial abundance.
What do you see when you look in the mirror? Or, more importantly, exactly WHO do you see? Is it an individual who is basically happy, accepting and understanding of yourself? Or is it the big critic that reflects back to us? Glimpsing your entire reflection, do you automatically think, “I’m too skinny, too heavy, too short, too sad-looking, etc.” Or can you smile at yourself and be totally at ease with the person that looks back at you?
If you are in the flow of a balanced life, your reflection should be a joyful one — one that you perceive as harmonious and looking quite good. Catching your reflection, even unexpectedly, should make you smile and not wince. However, if you are in the “flaw” of life — then you are noticing and fixating on your flaws and imperfections, physical and maybe even mental/emotional.
So perhaps the mirror indicator is a “reflection” (pun intended) on where you actually stand in your own personal comfort level with your core essence. Because even if your nose is long and your stomach is wide, if you are truly at ease with yourself, the mirror will not cause you stress.
I believe that in our quest to achieve a balanced, joyful life we must be truly comfortable with our authentic selves. Does that mean we should not strive to work on being more motivated, more compassionate, more understanding, more communicative, or even a bit thinner, more toned, or more (fill in the blank for yourself)? Absolutely not. However, being at ease within our own skin and psyche is an intrinsic part of a peaceful and optimistic mindset.
So pay attention to your reaction when you pass the mirror (especially a full length one because that gives you the picture of yourself in your physical entirety) and just note your initial response. Is it a flutter of happy recognition, or do you immediately see an area that needs improvement? If the critic in the mirror instantly comes to life, then maybe it is time to start doing the inner work of self-acceptance along with gentle, consistent shifts toward more positivity.
One powerful exercise is to actually DO mirror work. This one is from Jack Canfield. Just before bedtime, stand by a mirror and speak out loud to your reflection, reviewing your day in a positive light. Go over those things you did, such as if I’m speaking to myself “Sheryl, it’s fantastic that you went to the gym and worked out. It’s very healthy for you. You finished writing that article for your next newsletter, so you are caught up with that. You responded to all emails from prospective Reiki students. This morning’s healing session clearly was beneficial to your client. Later in the day, you prepared a healthy and tasty dinner for your husband and yourself.” Then at the very end just say to yourself, “It was a great day. I love you.” You might feel really embarrassed at first, but with patience and practice, your perception and relationship with yourself will improve.
Or, if you prefer a more succinct version of this, stand before a mirror at night and just acknowledge any or all of the following: “I am happy with myself on all levels. I am grateful for all that I do and all that I have. I feel good about my accomplishments of the day. I appreciate all those who love me.”
Affirmations:
- I am comfortable with who I am, and where I am along my life path.
- The compassion and understanding I show toward others is always mirrored back to me.
- I practice self-acceptance and treat myself with kindness.
Communication Today – Are Phone Calls Almost Obsolete?
By · CommentsHas picking up the phone and making an actual call become a lost art? With the proliferation of texting and emailing — have we forgotten how important, courteous and powerful the actual spoken word can be?
Recently I had a class scheduled and one of my students had to cancel out last minute — except she forgot to call and tell me! It was not much before the start of class, and I just happened to take a quick look at my email, discovering a brief, but apologetic, message from her. Normally, I check my email once in the morning the day of a class. If I hadn’t done a quick check again later, I suppose I would have been sitting there with my other students, just waiting for her…
I strongly believe it is still common courtesy to make that phone call when appropriate. Maybe the younger generation is far more immersed in keyboarding their communication via text messages or emails. But some of the more mature generation has become lax with connecting via the phone too.
I’m not going to deny that texting is a significant convenience. For me personally, it helps keep me in quick touch with my children when we need just a brief communication. When they are going on a long trip and I get their asked-for text “I’m here” just to let me know all is well, that is so reassuring. I understand that many parents of teenagers maintain a close line of communication through texting. Anything that keeps that connection strong during the teenage years is a beautiful thing!
My children are now beyond their teen years, but do we still email? Yes. Do we still text – yes. But we also talk. And I am always joyful to hear their voices. And we talk regularly.
There is something very powerful about speaking on the phone — sharing that close sense of live connection. It is a tangible feeling of real interaction, as opposed to a sentence popping up across a cell phone screen.
When I was a child, there were no computers or cellphones and I was lucky if my parents “allowed” me to use the telephone because they felt it was for adult use only. (I recall times I had to nearly BEG my parents to have the phone for a few minutes.) In my wildest dreams, I could never have imagined a world filled with this moment-to-moment real-time communication via small pocket-sized technological devices. These devices have revolutionized communication but it is still essential to apply some courtesy to modern connectivity.
But the bottom line is — stay in touch in whatever way works for you. Just don’t shy away from making that phone call!
And keeping with that thought — does anyone ever send a letter via the old “snail mail” — and I don’t mean paying bills or sending birthday cards. Think back — when was the last time you wrote and mailed a letter to someone?
Affirmations:
- I enjoy connecting with others regularly — it brings joy into my reality!
- Communicating clearly with others helps me build healthy relationships.
- I offer compassion, encouragement and support in my close and genuine communication with others.
My stepson, who I rarely see due to a heavy work schedule, was having dinner with my husband and me. In the course of the conversation, he shared that he has a tough time getting to sleep at night. He said his mind is busy talking to him in an overloaded sort of way. “You mean ‘mind chatter’?” I asked of him. He nodded, “I guess that’s what it is. My mind can’t quiet down.” Working a 60-hour week in the hectic restaurant business, it’s no surprise that his adrenalin and his thought streams have a difficult time calming down to a rhythm of sleep — even though he is usually exhausted by the end of the day.
Mind chatter, monkey mind (one that jumps from thought to thought like a monkey jumps from tree to tree), incessant head talk — these are all terms that refer to the concept of minds that can’t sooth, focus, or fall into a peaceful rhythm.
Have you personally ever felt this way? Maybe once in awhile — or perhaps quite often?
The other night, as I was working on my next day tweets, going through emails, corresponding with some of my students — multitasking to the max — my mind was on overload. It was late at night, the day had been fast-paced and scheduled, and I was experiencing a far-from-peaceful moment as I stared at my computer screen, my fingers busily flying across the keyboard.
However, the Universe must have literally taken “note” of my state of busy-mind-chatter and through the little boost of a message from a new Twitter friend, sent me to a music-sharing website where this man’s musical compositions were posted. And voila – I was transported to an ethereal moment of mindfulness and harmony. These lilting streams just captivated me in a totally unexpected way, drawing my focus toward the very essence of the music, and away from the tense mind chatter that had been running through my brain. I felt a huge and welcome gush of “aaaahhhhhh” just wash over me as I relaxed.
Of course, the Universe works in unexpected joyful, purposeful and sage ways, but we don’t always have to wait for the little nudge from a wise Universe. We can actually take our own steps to quiet our hectic head talk, particularly in the evening hours when our bodies need to relax and wind down in preparation for the rejuvenation of sleep. Really embracing mindfulness and being in the moment are so helpful for this.
It’s important to curtail extreme multitasking late at night. When our brains are so busy with parallel streams of information for each task and activity, we remain in an adrenaline rush that is not conducive to sleep. So if you have to finish something — give your attention to that one thing. And then FINISH it and set an intention to now enter the mode of CALM.
Before bed, engage in a peaceful few moments when you consciously prepare for sleep and let the concerns of the day just wash away.
Focusing on your breathing and deliberately slowing it down are a way to begin the relaxation process. Take slow, deep, cleansing breaths and intend for your body to release stress and tension on the exhale. Imagine that all the “toxic” emotions of the day are flowing out of your body, leaving you far more tranquil. Spending just a few minutes doing this can have a wonderful result.
A classic way to relax is simply picking up a book and reading – or use a Kindle or similar device. But make sure you are not caught up in a novel that is too intense.
Meditation or guided imagery is also benefical. Use any meditation techniques you have learned, or simply sit in quiet still-time for ten minutes or more. Just let your mind drift, with absolutely no thought agenda.
Listen to a guided imagery mediation by using an iPod or mp3 player with headphones, or a CD for those not yet into the iPod technology. There are even many apps for the smartphones that are also quite effective. Some of these have soothing binaural rhythms that work with the natural body rhythms to relax you into sleep mode. There are also many guided imagery meditation apps as well. Or, just listen to relaxing music, as I found myself doing that one particular evening.
Of course, one very practical tip is to not sit up too late with the blinking, interactive computer screen (I admit, I am often guilty of this.) It keeps the mind and adrenalin flowing. Another practical tip to those who are coffee drinkers: maybe it’s a no-brainer, but it’s best to refrain from caffeine in the afternoon and evening. This will allow your body to wind down at night.
At the very end of the day, take a few moments to re-frame each day with gratitude — offer heartfelt appreciation for the high points, accomplishments and special joys of the day, as well as for the blessings in your life! By that time you should be ready to drift off toward a tranquil slumber…
Affirmations:
- I take time to focus on my breathing to relax my mind and body.
- Creating peaceful moments at night helps bring overall balance and harmony into my life.
- I spend time reviewing my day to highlight those things for which I am truly grateful.
What are your suggestions for calming the mind before bedtime — please feel free to share your thoughts here!
Adaptability and Change – Flowing With the Tide of Life
By · CommentsDo you flow with life or do you flail against it? Do you take change in stride or do you stride in the opposite direction, overcome with resistance? Resistance is the stress that manifests negatively in your life. It is that feeling of swimming against the tide or upstream against the current of the river.
I remember as a child spending days at the beach. I loved walking out into the waves as far as I could safely go, then turning around and letting the waves gently carry me back to the shore. It was sometimes tough to get through the strength of the waves and I would dig my toes in to the sand, pushing myself further out, one determined step a time, as the waves broke across me. Of course, I never ventured out far and there were always lifeguards present. I do remember how joyful and exhilarating it felt to be washed ashore in the lilting arms of the ocean.
I draw upon this memory to crystallize my thoughts and feelings about the way we “ebb and flow” through changes in our lives. Doesn’t it feel better during the times we glide with the waves of change rather than fight against them?
The more we strain and struggle, the more stress and discord we invite into our reality. And even look at those words: strain, struggle, fight. Feel the negative and resistant vibrations of these words.
The changes that I am referring to here are changes that occur around us, in our environment, not changes that we willingly initiate. Here are some ways to cope and persevere effectively through the energy of change:
- Change is inevitable. Yes, change happens. And happens. And happens. One of my observations is that well-being consists of balanced, free-flowing energy on all levels, as well as being adaptable to the natural component of ongoing change in one’s life. The better we are at facing change and tapping into our skills of adaptability, the more harmony we will experience and the more well-being we will invite into our physical and emotional state.
- Change can be rapid or a process. It can be fast and furious, completely catching us unaware. Or it can be a lengthy process that occurs over time. Either way, it is better to try to look at it as a non-judgmental observer. Embrace the mindset (and even use this as an affirmation) “Yes, I clearly see this happening. But I am going to adapt my thinking and my emotions to deal with this in the best possible and most positive way for my own highest good.”
- You are in charge of your reaction to change. Though you may not be able to control aspects of your environment, you can certainly control your response to these external events and situations. Keep focused on that particular concept, for it is quite powerful and will help keep your cool.
- Embrace an attitude of adaptability. Put a positive spin on your thoughts and say to yourself “I am flexible — I bend and adapt to the changes that come my way.”
- Inner Strength – Dip into the wellspring of your inner strength – yes, everyone has this. Know that you can move through changes (even some of the toughest) and become more experienced, stronger, wiser.
- Keep in mind the distinctions made by that classic Serenity Prayer – “May God grant you the serenity to accept the things you cannot change; the courage to change the things you can; and the wisdom to know the difference.” Learn to trust your inner guidance and KNOW the difference.
Sometimes changes that we originally perceived as unwanted and negative may turn out to be figurative “blessings in disguise” and may shine greater light and wisdom onto our personal life paths.
Affirmations:
- I accept change as a natural part of life.
- My attitude of adaptability helps keep me focused along my life path.
- I tap into my inner guidance and strength to help navigate through challenging times.
Everyday I get numerous offers promising me that if I just download this life-changing ebook, or buy this remarkable system — abundant windfalls of either joy, money, or both will promptly flow my way. Some of these emails are from well-known names in internet marketing, and some from great motivational leaders and teachers. The email loops I find myself part of have grown more complicated and seem to continue to expand each day.
But the theme is all the same, “Use my system, make big money now” or “buy my product and get happy now” or “join my membership site and become enlightened now!” They tantalize and appeal to us in a variety of strong emotional ways.
But the price will only be discounted “today” so take advantage right now — or the bonuses will only be around for the next 48 hours — or the replay of the not-to-be-missed teleseminar is only up for 24 hours so listen NOW.
When I was a bit newer online, I took this at face value. I think I attended every teleconference that I could squeeze into my schedule. I bought a number of products that interested me and some were beneficial, but others not so.
But it suddenly dawned on me that my life had become too complicated with online “stuff.” My schedule was suddenly crammed with too much clutter that resulted from my interfacing with the internet. I realized that I needed to kick back and re-examine my time management online.
Yes, the internet an information highway, an expansive wave of enlightening ideas, teachings and consciousness-awakening movements. But it has also opened up this vast avalanche of marketing pitches. The bottom line is that one just can’t have time and money for EVERYTHING that wafts in our direction.
So what can we do? Here are a few practical tips I have learned to help deal with balancing one’s interaction on the internet:
1) All “offers” that urge you to immediate action — be wary. If you have real interest, read carefully but put it aside for a day – or several. Most worthwhile offers are usually good for a number of days (and sometimes WEEKS) despite what they say. Listen to your heart and inner guidance. If it’s too good to be true, then it’s too good to be true! Do take time to make sure something resonates with your thoughts and goals before you buy it, join it or sign up for its teleconference — even if the teleconference is FREE. And if you have questions, don’t be afraid to write to the person who is making the offer. If they are the “real deal”, they will respond to you!
2) Online Events – There are such a multitude of these teleseminars, webinars, etc. I used to be a teleconference “junkie” and join in every event to which I was invited, until I realized that they were taking up a disproportionate amount of my time. Now I pick and choose. What’s more, most are available in download. I download them, transfer them to my iPod and listen either at the gym during my workout, or in the car in transit — better time management!
3) eZines and emails – If I want to sign up for a new and exciting ezine, I often first unsubscribe to something that does not really hold my interest anymore. So this keeps the “karmic balance” of ezines somewhat consistent. Believe me, I DO get many eZines on a regular basis and for the most part, I enjoy the information they contain!
4) You don’t have to opt in to everything. Don’t let yourself feel pressured to be part of everything, even with some sweet pitches that come your way. Even if the products/events sound amazing. Do you really want your internet life to overwhelm and overshadow your REAL life? Connect only with those whose platforms are meaningful and beneficial to you.
5) Social Consciousness – Sometimes I feel inundated with petitions (and of course appeals for donations). Yes, some of them are so important and really resonate with my beliefs. But if I agreed to sign all the online petitions that come to me, and writing all those accompanying letters, I would simply have no life. Now you might think that sounds selfish, but sometimes one has to say “no” to the deluge of online demands. So if you DO become involved in causes, choose those that are most meaningful to you.
6) Gaming – I personally do not get involved with this, but I know that so many people DO. Put a time limit on this and don’t let yourself become obsessed.
All in all, remember to strive for BALANCE, balance, balance. Create your own gentle harmony in your online virtual life as well as your “real” life in the actual world. Some amazing and beautiful business/social connections are made online. But don’t get so lost in the internet that you lose touch with the reality of everyday living. Just keep in mind that yes, one can simply get up from one’s desk chair and turn away from that blinking, colorful screen and return to the blessings and intricacies of real life…
Affirmations:
- I strive for balance and harmony in all aspects of my life — both virtual and actual!
- My heart and inner guidance help me effectively sort through the many opportunities that come my way.
- I pursue events that clearly resonate with my wishes, beliefs and interests.