Positive Attitude – Loving Yourself
By · CommentsAre you able to say honestly that you love yourself? Are you comfortable with who you are?
Or are you often plagued by that deep-seated and persistent inner critic? Do you consider yourself (even occasionally) a victim, a loser — a failure? Do you make statements such as “My life is a mess, I can’t seem to do anything right, I will never amount to anything.”
If you can answer an emphatic “yes” to the very first question about loving yourself, then congratulations on being in tune with your beautiful core essence. But I do suspect you might be among a minority of individuals.
I think for the most part we tend to be very hard on ourselves — very judgmental. And sometimes immense challenges or life patterns that we have learned contribute toward shaking the harmony and sanity of our core essence.
But the good news is that it’s never too late no matter where you are in life to embrace the loving, vibrant soulful aspect of yourself, that glorious inner light that is who you are and who you came into this world to be.
“Our noblest act is to practice unconditional love, especially with ourselves. It’s the soil of our goodness. We may feel afraid, we may feel unworthy, we may think, “I couldn’t possibly love that part of myself.” But dear one, I assure you: the heart is big enough.” ~ Karly Pitman
If you are someone who has been emotionally “beating up” on yourself for your shortcomings, this is the time to stop in your tracks and change course. This is the perfect, right moment to consciously choose to shift your thinking. This is the time to undertstand that yes, “the heart is big enough.”
The very first step is to acknowledge that you have been doing the best you can with the current tools and knowledge that you possess. If you could have done “better” or different, then you would have. So do not berate yourself.
Tap into the concept that you are a powerful, spectacular being just as you are. Resolve to be at home with YOU, to connect with the soulful, Divine spark that is a pure facet of your being, to love yourself unconditionally and to nurture yourself with abundance. The nurturing part is so essential. For only if you can treat yourself with authentic care and kindness can you be happy, focused in the present moment, as well as poised to move ahead to create a future that is radiant with optimism and fulfillment.
Can you subscribe to the belief that you are a worthy, multi-dimensional and powerfully radiant “child of the Universe?” Can you wrap your thoughts around this and integrate this sense of connection and compassion into your being and your everyday life? If so, then I believe this amazing path of possibility will energetically open right before you and your journey will be transformed in a most delightful, creative and expansive way.
Remember that our beliefs and thoughts create our reality. Choose your thoughts — choose your reality. And make it an exhilarating and satisfying one!
Affirmations:
• I tap into the knowing that I come from a place of goodness and kindness, and I am worthy of a happy, fulfilling life experience.
• I understand that my natural state is one of ease, with the ability to tune in to the boundless, joyful flow of the Universe.
• I love ME, who I am, and I make decisions based on this radiant feeling of confidence and well-being.
Overcoming Challenges – Learning Powerful Life Lessons
By · CommentsSometimes we lean into a shift– we choose it. Other times it is thrust upon us. Regardless of how something manifests, shifts can have a dramatic impact on our lives and can leave us with profound life lessons. But the lessons aren’t always obvious so sometimes you must closely examine the situation and find the lesson concealed within. And it can be very eye-opening and fulfilling to discover these lessons.
For me, there were three to four weeks of waves of challenge just surging in like a turbulent sea during a storm. My husband ended up in the emergency room — he was having a heart attack. It was a horrific and painful experience for him (and a very demanding and scary one for me.) He ended up spending a total of five days in the hospital, even though his heart attack was deemed “minor” and a best case scenario from a heart attack perspective. He finally was given the go ahead to be released (his heart rate had stabilized and lowered) and I brought him home.
Four days later we were hit with a major hurricane that left Long Island quite devastated in general, but left us without power, heat and hot water for fifteen days. The temperature inside the house dipped down to a chilly forty-something degrees on some of the colder nights. And my husband had to spend most nights out, as the cold was too taxing on his recovery. I spent a night or two alone in a very cold, dark house with my pets. Most nights we were like nomads, going from house to house, friend to friend. We depended on the kindness of neighbors, friends and nearby family.
Yes — life challenges change us – there is no doubt about that.
The question is does a particular difficult challenge change us for the better or the worse? Initially you may feel downright sad, angry, frustrated. So you need to move through much of the challenging time period first. But when you find yourself finally moving into clarity, and you are gaining forward momentum, ask yourself the question: what did I learn from this experience? And really feel into it.
Ask yourself questions like:
- Am I stronger from the experience?
- Did I gain insight into who I really am at my core?
- Did this experience teach me how to appreciate the beauty, balance of normalcy and the simplicity of everyday routine life?
- Did I learn how to genuinely be present and to focus solely on the moment in order to survive?
For me, life during that “dark period” was absolutely a struggle, but we were so profoundly touched by the compassion of many people. One of the lessons we learned was that sometimes being “power-less” meant we had to completely surrender to the “powers that be” — to the Divine plan and also to the compassion of people we did not know well, but who gently and warmly came to our rescue. So though we were power-less, we were profoundly empowered by this knowing. We were enveloped by a warm blanket that was a sense of community that we had rarely experienced or acknowledged during the flow of “normal” life.
I learned to appreciate the modern conveniences in our lives. When our power finally came back on, my husband and I had emotional tears of relief in our eyes. We turned on every light in the house, just needing to soak up and absorb the feeling of radiant electric light. I know in my heart that this feeling of appreciation will last a long while as the lesson was deeply ingrained.
Make every effort to learn from your experiences — even if the experiences rock your world. Our challenges do shape us into who we are — and if we let ourselves morph into stronger, more compassionate, more alive, and more loving individuals — than we have powerfully reached for the positive result and will be happier for it.
Affirmations:
- Overcoming challenges and obstacles helps me grow stronger.
- I greet the ebb and flow of life with an attitude of flexibility and adaptability.
- I strive to remain true to my integrity and my core essence, particularly when navigating through turbulent times.
Positive Attitude – Claim Your Joy
By · CommentsIs it easier to be stressed, anxious and discordant rather than being happy, peaceful and zen?
Just from observation and life experience, it appears to me that most people gravitate toward disorder in their lives. They find themselves caught up in the negative aspects of human existence.
To be calm, serene, in the flow of exuberance and joy often seems to take substantially more effort.
And I can’t figure out why that is.
Yet it has been my own life experience as well, stemming from what I learned during my childhood. Children learn what they live — and personally, I lived with plenty of negativity. Discord and drama were rampant in my household. Of course, we did manage to have some fun in between, and I did consider my mother to be a nurturing woman. But both my mother and father thought that yelling and a raised voice were the only parental way to get things done and let their authority be known.
So for a good part of my life, I fell into the trap of perceiving turmoil and commotion as the norm. What follows from that sort of norm unfortunately is much unhappiness.
It took quite a bit of growing up and my path of holistic healing that brought me to a more enlightened way of looking at life. I finally began to realize that maybe — just maybe — that joy was part of the purpose of life, a part that we are all worthy of.
Yes, I am saying that you DESERVE to be joyful. It is your right. And if you can authentically claim it, you will realize how powerful you are and will become better aligned with your soul/life path.
Of course, I am not saying that your joy should come at the expense of another. As you are pursuing and delighting in your joy, make sure that the component of compassion flows within you. Allow yourself to find delight and satisfaction in the joy of others. If you can do that, then your own sense of fulfillment, your own sense of being in the stream of harmony, light and abundance will increase.
Know that you CAN leave negative patterns behind, that you can reach for higher-vibration, uplifting thoughts. When you grasp and embrace this concept, your life will make an immense shift for the better.
And yes, we all are guilty of falling back into negative patterns once awhile. For doing so just seems to be a part of the human experience. Staying in those patterns can be our emotional downfall. Remain keen and observant, and try to catch yourself before you fall too far. Then gently lift yourself up into that sweet perspective of joy. Because you CAN do it — and the result is exhilarating…
Affirmations:
- I know that I can choose my attitude — so I strive for a positive one!
- I am a powerful life creator and choose to stay in the flow of optimistic, uplifting thoughts.
- An outlook of joy comes naturally to me.
Achieving Life Balance – Is it Good or Bad?
By · CommentsIn my own thinking, I had always believed balance was a positive state of being. After all, I would always tell people, as I had learned from my Reiki teachers: “Reiki is about bringing harmony and balance into one’s life.” However, I had all my beliefs radically questioned when a holistic teacher told me her point of view, culled from her own life experience, plus from a definitive book that she had read. And this was that we should not even mention the word balance. Could this be? Was she saying that balance is BAD?
From my past experience, most inspirational teachers, as well as my healing mentors, had always heralded balance as a beautiful, peaceful state of being. After all, didn’t Dr. Wayne Dyer write an entire book about “Being in Balance?” Eric Pearl, founder of Reconnective Healing, often mentions balance as being a profound and GOOD space for one to be in — a space of healing.
So this new theory from this holistic teacher shattered my previous views — or at least made me think twice or more about them. And though I was not particularly thrilled with this take on the “balance” idea, perhaps it was something that I needed to ponder and give some serious thought to in order to come to my own conclusions.
The dictionary has several meanings for balance: state of equilibrium or equipoise; equal distribution of weight amount; mental steadiness or emotional stability; habit of calm behavior, judgment, etc.
So what could be negative about balance? Balance in the extreme can be considered a place of “no growth.” A state of being that lets one marinate in stagnation as opposed to being able to thrive and bloom with expansion. As the combination of human/spiritual beings that we are, we are here in this physical plane to learn, create, love and grow on numerous levels. If we were in a constant state of balance, we would be losing out on a huge part of our purpose and soul calling here on planet Earth.
We need to be in the fluidity of the stream of life, to navigate the ebb and flow of our everyday experiences, gain our lessons from the realities that we live. Learn strength and knowledge from overcoming hardship. This profound movement along our life path is what makes us unique as well as enriches our journey. At least that is one way to look at it.
An ongoing state of absolutely ultra-perfect equilibrium might keep us from engaging in the unfolding of our life purpose.
But, the flip side of the coin, is we often CRAVE balance in our lives. Particularly when the current of our lives has been turbulent for a long period. That is when we seek a calm port in a storm. When we yearn for a semblance of peacefulness, of sameness, a state of just being present and tranquil. So a little balance is definitely welcome.
Our lives are ever-changing, whether or not we yearn for — or find — balance. A pure state of equilibrium is rarely achieved and generally short-lived. But attaining even an iota of balance — even a delicious touch — helps us connect with our inner guidance, helps us be present in the moment, helps us be in a lovely space of bliss.
So after the diverse views I present here, I still believe, at the heartfelt level, that overall balance is a positive aspect to embrace in our lives.
The richness of our journey is what life is all about and life is certainly a glorious process, so do relish each step — whether you are in perfect balance or not!
What do you think? Is balance good — or bad? Is balance something to be desired? Or something that stunts our spiritual growth? Please leave a comment here on my blog, as I always appreciate hearing your thoughts and perspective!
Affirmations:
- I enjoy the ongoing multi-faceted journey of my life and I welcome personal growth on a daily basis.
- Achieving a state of calm, non-judgmental peacefulness can enhance my life experience.
- I accept the fluid motion of my life as it unfolds, enjoying the opportunities for growth and expansion that that are abundantly present each day.
I am sure you can vividly recollect those dramatically turbulent times in your life when you experienced a myriad of challenges and obstacles. Times when you felt your life was just falling apart. Discordant, unbalanced, stressful periods. Those memories stay with us quite clearly but DO help shape who we are.
But have you ever experienced the opposite — a time when you have finally arrived at a point of harmony and balance — and now suddenly everyone around you is going through challenges. With no warning notice, the lives of others in your “circle” are simply unraveling with health issues, money problems, etc.
When we are in the graceful flow of life, we somehow expect and assume that everyone else is riding the same wave. And as we go merrily on our way, attempting to be in the joyful moment — WHAM — people are falling like dominoes (remember that old game?) around you.
Of course, that is all figurative language — not that people are dropping at your feet. I’ve been experiencing this myself recently. After getting caught up in the swirl of challenge after challenge with family and friends, I am truly wondering — is this part of the great energetic shift of 2012? Or is it just the normal stream of life showing up in difficult and tumultuous ways?
I first met these tough happenings with extreme resistance — which we all know is never an appropriate way to deal with anything. Those feelings of resistance bring to us more of the same, and more hardship too, if we do not move ourselves into a better mindset. And I do know better, but I reacted at a gut, emotional level as most anyone would do.
I have since been learning to navigate these choppy waters in a calmer way. But I constantly re-learn the lesson that life is always an adventure.
Here are six suggestions for coping during tough times:
1) Don’t bury your head in the sand and pretend nothing is happening. Do acknowledge what you are observing. But don’t let your whole heart get caught up in the negativity.
2) Be supportive to those going through the challenges. Extremely supportive. But don’t let their fear-based emotions become yours. Be compassionate, but not empathetic. Walking with others too closely along their rocky path is not healthy for you either.
3) Keep your own powerful inner light strong and radiant. Be a brilliant beacon of understanding and peacefulness to others — a port in their personal stormy sea. They will come to depend on you. But realize that they will regain their poise and harmony at some point. So you will not have to shoulder their burden indefinitely.
4) Understand that everyone has their own personal life path — some of it joyful and some of it difficult. Respect the unique soul journey of others. There are always powerful lessons to learn through overcoming hardship.
5) Continue to keep a keen focus on those aspects of your own life that are optimistic and positive — and take care of yourself. As much as you need to be there for others, make sure that your own needs are met. Or you will begin to feel stressed and worn-out.
6) Do keep in mind that this is all temporary. The ebb and flow of life is constantly changing. Hold tight to the knowing that the stream of joy and well-being is always there, that others can slip comfortably back into it at some point after they have bypassed the swirling turbulent eddies of challenge and turmoil.
And take to heart the simple, yet profound steadfast guidance of Abraham-Hicks as they say: “All is well.” Accept that concept and allow it to permeate your emotions and your senses. All IS well.
Affirmations:
- I let my powerful inner light shine as a guiding beacon for others who are experiencing challenges.
- I tap into my heartfelt sense of stability as I assist others in navigating through turbulent times.
- I consciously and gratefully focus on the uplifting aspects of my life — all the blessings, the joy, and the people who love me.
Do you feel authentically good about who you are at your heart and soul level? Is your self-esteem strong and joyful? Does your sense of self worth emanate from deep within your core essence — or do you allow the opinion and subjective views of others to determine how you perceive yourself?
Everyone has a very unique way of perceiving themselves and most of us are influenced by the thoughts, deeds and opinions of all those who surround us — family, friends, coworkers, etc. Those that surround you should absolutely be supportive, caring, kind and encouraging — nothing less than that is acceptable. However, in reality, that is rarely the case.
But being confident about who you are and your life path are essential to feel fulfilled, successful, balanced and compassionate — a state of being that most of us aspire to. Honestly, how many times have you made a statement such as: “She made me feel inadequate” or “He made me feel unworthy and bad about myself.” We have all been there.
To move forward, you need to accept total responsibility for your life, your actions and your emotions. Nobody can or should MAKE you feel anything. Your response and reactions to others determines what you feel. Decide that you will respond to challenging people and their opinions with strength and a powerful sense of self that will let their negativity roll off.
Many people feel the need to control others (I was raised in such a family environment) and do not understand the importance of letting go, being supportive and permitting others to grow, flourish and follow their own radiant inner light and unique life path. All of us are entitled to expand and grow as individuals, and as soulful beings as well.
It is critically important to hold on to the knowing that your inner light, which is your own unique and complex personality, should always shine through in a genuine, caring way. Remain as peaceful and non-reactive to challenging personalities as possible. And really do put your best foot forward to work on this. However, if it gets to the point that a person tries to consistently suppress your light, sometimes it is necessary to step back or away for your own overall sense of well being. So always assess the situation with gentle and careful observation, striving to be as nonjudgmental as possible.
Those most enlightened people in your life will do their very best to enhance your light, your spirit and will vibrate in a very highly joyful and loving way. They will buoyantly support your self-confidence. You will always feel “good enough” in their presence without having to work at it or pretend you are someone you are not.
So find your inner confidence, connect with the inner YOU and let your brilliant light be a beacon for others as well, inspiring them to also feel confident and “good enough” as you interact with them on a daily basis. And remember to express sincere appreciation to those who are loving, compassionate and supportive to you…
Affirmations:
- I approach each day with confidence and the self assurance to make decisions and choices that are healthy, wise and joyful for me.
- I know in my heart that I am worthy of love, prosperity and success.
- I strive to remain calm and non-reactive in situations that involve challenging personalities.
The Ego in Everyday Life – Blessing or Curse?
By · CommentsMention the word “ego” to people and you certainly get a variety of reactions, spanning the gamut of responses. To some, the ego represents the blessing of being part of humanity and to others it may seem like a “curse.”
The concept of ego has a multitude of definitions. The dictionary defines it as the “I” or self of any person; distinguishing itself from the selves of others and from objects of its thoughts.
The Freudian understanding is quite different. It is believed that the ego is part of the personality that mediates the demands of the id, the superego and reality.
The Freudian ego supposedly prevents us from acting impulsively on our very basic urges, helping us behave with some form of normalcy and tact. For example, without the ego, if someone takes a parking spot that you were waiting for, you would simply get out of your car, go over and confront the other person. You might even exert physical force on the other driver in retaliation. Since we have an ego, we know (at least most of us) that this course of action is not the way to go.
I believe we do need our egos to survive here in the physical plane. They make us who we are as unique individuals. They help us persevere in the midst of all the challenges, choices and confusion that we face on a regular basis.
We need to consider our egos in a a gentle, caring and diplomatic way. It is when ones ego takes over in a non-compassionate, unkind way, expanding to give one a controlling, belligerent worldview of intolerance that this facet of our personality becomes a negative one. Thus, the expression such as: “He’s so egotistical. He thinks he is better than everyone else.”
Are you familiar with the idea that the word EGO is just an acronym for “Edge God Out?” When one’s ego dominates in such a way as to cause a person to believe in separation and duality, then he has truly edged out any connection with the Divine.
As a holistic healing practitioner, I embrace the concept of letting my ego step aside while I am facilitating a healing session. I do believe that the most effective sessions are when I relax my own preconceived notions of what needs to be healed, and let a Higher Power determine exactly what healing is appropriate for my client.
However, in every day life, our egos serve an essential role, as long as we keep them in check.
To bring balance and harmony into our ego-driven lives, the inspirational masters and teachers advise us to “drop down into our heart space.” This way we can gain a more open, Divinely-connected and compassionate perspective.
So if we strive for balance between our egos and our soul-selves, with a healthy, confident sense of who we are as well as compassion for others, perhaps that is the place of greatest joy for us here in the physical plane.
What do you think? What is your take on the human ego? Is it a virtue or a vice, a blessing or a curse? Please take a moment to leave a comment here — thank you in advance!
Affirmations:
- I am happy and confident with who I am, and I feel secure in my joyful connections with others.
- I let my ego guide me in a positive, gentle and compassionate way.
- I strive to achieve the balance between taking nurturing care of my self and loving care of others.
A Personal Experience Story
My husband and I had been looking forward to this day for quite some time. We were celebrating my husband’s birthday with a mini vacation, several hours away from our home town. At the hotel spa, we had a luxurious side by side Swedish massage planned.
About 45 minutes before the massage, the cell phone rang. It was my daughter who was back in Long Island, panicked and speaking a mile a minute. She had my husband’s car and was traveling to another town for a lunch appointment. One of the rear tires blew out, was totally flat and the car was not drivable. She was on a parkway, a half mile from the nearest exit. In tears about how bad this all was, she lamented about how she had to cancel her lunch appointment with her former mentor/boss whom she hasn’t seen in a very long time.
(Now, you might be thinking that you have no sympathy for me in that my MASSAGE might be interrupted. But please realize this couple massage only happens perhaps every four to five years for us, and it was at the request of my husband who wanted it as a birthday present.)
So I had two choices – I could cry along with my daughter, getting caught up in her flow of fear (the old me would have.) Or I could remain calm, practical and clear-thinking. Of course you know the choice I will make.
However, in some duel Universe in a different dimension, I could almost hear the other me carrying on with a litany of “oh no, I can’t believe this is happening right now.”
My first priority was to calm my daughter, reassuring her that I will get some assistance for her. And I did point out that despite this unexpected mishap, SHE is totally fine and unhurt. That is the most important thing. She does agree with that.
As we were speaking, I was noting the time on my watch, wondering if roadside assistance can get to her before I get to relaxing on a massage table. So I hung up with her and immediately called the roadside assistance where I am a member.
This roadside service is not allowed on the parkway, but the helpful operator put in a call in to the only towing company that IS allowed on the parkway. We determine that the easiest course of action is to simply have the service change the blown tire and replace it with the spare.
After this was all put into action and we notified my daughter (she was quite relieved), my husband and I headed to the spa — a lovely, zen place fragrant with the scent of aromatherapy. We each headed off to our respective changing areas, accompanied by spa attendants.
Part of me wanted to simply blurt out and vent to my attendant: “I’ve planned this for so long and wouldn’t you know it — my daughter is stuck on the parkway back in new York. She is freaking out, and I am nowhere near the zen state I had hoped to be in at this particular moment.” But I simply say nothing and quietly follow the woman to the locker room. As she explains how to choose a pin to lock and unlock the locker, I force myself to focus. Or I could just see all my belongings being stuck in the locker with me having no clue at how to get to them.
As I changed into a long white soft fleecy robe, I noticed a text flash up from my daughter that the roadside service had arrived. I then moved into the relaxation room, sipping a glass of herbal iced tea but still nervously clutching my iPhone. As I sat and began to TRY to relax, I congratulated myself on remaining centered and focused during this minor, but distracting, challenge. I noticed the sign on the table next to me, which read something like “This is a relaxation area. Telecommunication devices are not allowed.” Inwardly, I managed an ironic smile, but I can’t possibly “abandon” my daughter until the tire situation is resolved and she is able to safely drive home.
As I waited, I noticed a text finally flash onto my phone “Done. I am going to drive home now.” And then I shut my phone and placed it in my locker (remembering the sequence to unlock) and awaited the voice of the massage therapist beckoning me to my hour of luxurious relaxation.
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the next hour (and I even opted for the “add-on” of some aromatherapy scented lotions) — it was pure indulgence. And I allowed myself to let go of the tire incident.
Unexpected things happen — that is part of life. And they usually don’t happen at a convenient time. After all, is any time truly “convenient” for something difficult to occur? Flexibility is a powerful life lesson to learn, but an essential one. As I always say, we can’t control everything that happens to us. But we CAN control our reaction to it. And it’s important to keep our perspective on these occurrences. A blown tire is an inconvenience to deal with, but the bottom line was that my daughter was safe and unharmed. From that perspective, it is easier to let these happenings go and to move back into the more harmonious flow of life.
Affirmations:
- I swim with the current of life, remaining flexible and adaptable.
- I remain centered and calm during minor life challenges.
- I breathe into the flow of life, acknowledging that everything is happening for my Highest and best good.
Another day, another routine, maybe almost exactly the same as yesterday? Are you stuck in the rut of taking your life for granted? Do feelings of appreciation come to you often — or come to you rarely?
An early morning email from a wonderful, compassionate woman who has been quite inspirational to me has been a wake-up call, reminding me how precious a “normal” existence is. This woman has been suffering from an unusual condition involving her spinal fluid and has been bedridden for a half year now. Still she continues to do her inspirational tele-calls from her bed, reaching out her kindness and compassion to others in her internet community despite her own extreme physical challenges. Though it appeared she was healing, she has experienced a major setback and will be going in to the hospital for another surgical procedure. (Some of her symptoms are excruciating headaches and vision loss .) She is only in her early forties.
Another acquaintance of mine was recently hit by a van while she was walking in the street and was quite injured. Fortunately, after much medical care and rehabilitation, she is recovering.
I don’t share these stories for a “gloom and doom” effect. I share them for a “wake up and smell the beautiful fragrance of your life” effect.
Life truly does bring us along a road of many twists and turns, and sometimes we are never sure what we will find when we round the next curve. But that doesn’t mean we have to be filled with fear-based thoughts along our journey. We shouldn’t hide from living, and cower away, afraid of what could happen.
On the contrary, I am encouraging you to go out and live your life — and live it with grand appreciation! Life is a magnificent gift, and we should choose to treat and acknowledge it as such.
Embracing appreciation with a deep reverence for the beauty of our individual lives is probably the most joyful and productive thing one can do. Learn to bask in the clarity and exhilaration of each moment. Oh yes, some moments are definitely better than others. But as we make a conscientious effort to bring in more optimistic thought patterns, it becomes easier to find the precious good in our everyday experiences. Particularly the very simple ones — such as times spent with family, friends and even our cherished pets. Or times we spend connecting with nature.
Make an effort to greet each day with some form of appreciation. Bringing in the feelings of gratitude early in the morning can jump-start your day to be more positive, more productive, more inspired! And closing the day in the evening by just mentally revisiting those best moments of your day with authentic gratitude can be quite powerful.
It is said that those who are able to live their lives in a state of appreciation are generally happier and more fulfilled.
So what can you do, personally, to bring more thoughts and sensations of appreciation into your own reality? Give it some thought, and start now to begin to tap into that wellspring of appreciation that I do believe resides within each of our hearts. Let it flow forth… and enrich your life!
Affirmations:
- I am grateful for all the lessons I have learned along this journey called Life.
- I strive to let appreciation fill my heart and my senses… and know that my life is better for it.
- Embracing the concept and practice of appreciation brings joy, abundance, inspiration and fulfillment.
Are you joyful and enthusiastic about where you are heading? Or perhaps you are just accepting, and sort of moving blindly along, not sure if the direction aligns with your true “calling”? Or, are you possibly just plodding through each day, filled with uncertainty?
There is a wide range of potential attitudes toward’s one’s life. Of course, the optimum is feeling genuinely happy, vital and self-assured about your own path, invigorated and knowing that you are living your soul’s calling. Knowing that you are doing exactly what you are meant to do, and are where you are meant to be.
A young woman recently shared with me that although she was basically joyful with her work, she had a nagging feeling that she should have been or done more. And where did this feeling come from? Of all things, a recent visit to a psychic — a woman who she must have paid for a reading, but who spouted only negativity. This so-called psychic had shaken her confidence, informing her that she should be in a different career entirely, and should have done many things quite differently.
I was appalled at this destructive reading as it was detrimental to this young lady who placed sincere emphasis on what the psychic had to say. So I encouraged this woman to forget about the reading and suggested she focus on moving ahead with her life. “Do you like what you’re doing?” I questioned her. She assured me that she does, and she had put quite a bit of studying and practice into her vocation to get to the point where she is today.
I know that many people place too much credence on the negative remarks of others — and these others aren’t necessarily psychics; they can be one’s friend or family member who might need some lessons in tact and supportiveness.
Personally, I believe that we are pretty much where we need to be on our live path. Not everyone is completely content — that is the usual human condition. But I feel it is important to trust that as we move along our road of both self-discovery and life experience, we retain a clear understanding about the direction we need to follow. And often, we come to the figurative fork in the road and must make some personal decisions about which way to turn. And if you are truly not content with where you are, then you can always make a shift in another direction.
Embracing your path with confidence is essential for peace of mind. As I always say, tune into your own innate sense of self-guidance that lies within for assistance with what steps you need to take. If you are feeling strong and positive about your goals and plans, then you can easily let the remarks of “naysayers” roll off and not effect your self-assurance.
Not everyone is going to be your champion, and it’s key to understand that. That is why you need to be your own best and focused champion. Have confidence and insight into your own desires and wishes. And you may need to work on striving to ignore or be non-reactive toward those who cast obstacles in your path.
Yes, everyone wants to be passionate about their particular life path, but it is not always possible to maintain a high level of this as we move along our day-to-day schedules. If you can hold on to an overall sense of optimism in your heart, greet each day with even a little enthusiasm, then your life path will surely unfold in a gentle, welcoming, uplifting way. Be confident of this. Be sure of this. And don’t listen to psychics who tell you otherwise.
Affirmations:
- I feel genuinely confident that I am aligned with my life path as I move forward each day.
- Tapping in to my innate sense of self-assurance helps me overcome obstacles that I may encounter.
- I gravitate toward those who are supportive and encouraging about my life choices, plans and goals.