Take a Day to Change Your Life

 By Stephanie Morrison 

Photo: blog.beliefnet.com
 
You've got some things in your life you'd like to change. Maybe they are major and maybe you consider them minor changes, but either way you've been wanting to live your life differently in some ways and you just haven't seemed to be able to actually make any changes that stick. Perhaps you're in a bit of a rut or you're too occupied with just getting through each day to attend to your personal needs. What you need is one single day devoted to you and your focus to change your life - in slight or significant ways.
Of course there is planning involved, as there is with anything of importance. You need to start by planning the date. Will you take a sick day or devote a non-working day to this endeavor? Do you need to take into account some travel time - just so you don't fall into the trap of doing things and going places that you are already used to. Do you want to plan a 'rain date' if you're planning activities that take you outside? (which you should be doing.) Make sure you have at least 8-10 hours of the day to fully give yourself the time for various activities that engage your true spirit.
Next to plan is what you will do with your day. I can't give you a step-by-step rundown of what you should do and how long you should take for each aspect, as I don't know what the ideal activities are for you. You know best and even if you don't get it figured out by the end of this article, I have faith that you will figure it out on the day or by the date you are planning for. What I will give you is some ideas and a bit of background on what you may want to do to make that internal shift to be able to define and establish the changes you need to make.
Your day of change is a time to not do anything that you regularly do. You will be filling the day with things that you've wanted to do but haven't found the time or initiative. It's only a day though, so choose wisely! Have you want to stroll around an art gallery? explore a historical location? spend some time in a certain natural setting? visit a zoo or other animal conservatory? You should try to fit a few different activities like this in your day to give you a range of experiences to grow from. You want to provide yourself the start to some paradigm shifting so you can get a feel for what is valuable in your life.
What about some physical changes? Nothing helps you get out of a rut like new clothing or a new hairstyle. These are activities that are only effective for your day of change if it's a somewhat drastic change. This day is not for shopping for the fun of it and getting your hair trimmed up for a good time at the salon. A new look will help you by being a reminder of the changes you want to ease into and looking at your life, and your physical self, in a new way.
Your life-changing day will be the day to nurture your mind, body and soul with time alone, new experiences and an open mind to the possibilities. You should be spending time in nature, providing yourself time to write down your assessment of the changes you want to make, experiencing creative nourishment and experiencing all of this in solitude. A little human contact is OK, but this is a day to connect with yourself and your creator to develop a game plan for the rest of your life - or at least a focus for the next few years. Change doesn't happen overnight or in a day, but taking a whole day to really focus on your purpose in this life will be the catalyst to making those changes for a satisfying and meaningful life that is a blessing to you and all those around you.

Stephanie's connection to spirituality through nature and its life enhancing gifts has been the inspiration to help others connect to their spirituality. To discover ways to empower yourself and enhance your mind, body and spirit visit Spiritual Life Balance

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6895936

Share

5 Tips for Dealing With Failure

By Zoe B 

Photo: thenickyblog.com
 
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work."
- Thomas Edison
Imagine if Thomas Edison had given in to failure...we would still be living in darkness. If Henry Ford had given up we would still be riding on horseback...if Michael Jordan had hung his boots up...Nike would have been just another sports brand.
If you look back at all of the most inspirational innovators, sportsman, geniuses & icons throughout history they all share a common thread - they simply don't believe in failure.
"Success is the ability to go from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm." Winston Churchill
"Failure is only the opportunity to begin again, only this time more wisely." Henry Ford
"I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." Michael Jordan
Successful people understand that failure is a pre-requisite for success and the sooner you buy into that the quicker you'll reach personal success & happiness. Each failure you make is one step closer to success - as long as you learn from your mistakes of course! The definition of insanity is 'to do the same things over and over again and expect change'. So it's not good enough to simply keep failing at the same things - the purpose of failure is to become more wise through experience and only by learning what doesn't work, can we learn what does work.
Simple Life Strategy: 5 Tips for Dealing with Failure:
1. Reframe your situation - there will always be a worse off situation that you can think of and this will make you immediately feel better ("At least X didn't happen")
2. Analyse why you failed and how you can take these learnings forward to bring you one step closer to your goals (don't focus on 'failing' - focus on what you would have changed)
3. Always ask for feedback - and don't think of it as criticism - but invaluable information to help you succeed and move forward
4. Don't make the mistake of judging yourself negatively based on your actions. Just because you have taken action that has failed - doesn't mean you are a failure. You are not your work. This is simply one aspect of who you are.
5. Success is judged not on how quickly you succeed but how quickly you recover, so pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep going. As Confucious said:
"Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail."
So model your great ancestors and learn to love failure!

This article originally appeared on Simple Life Strategies.
Zoe B is a Life Strategist and the founder of the Simple Life Strategies blog.
Access more free Simple Life Strategies here: http://www.simplelifestrategies.com

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6890189

Share

Success: Are You Your Own Worst Enemy?

By Lou A Quade 

Photo: businesswatchnetwork.com
 
What's holding you back from achieving your full potential? My bet is on YOU!
They say that you can achieve whatever you want in life but that doesn't mean you can just wish for it and it will magically happen. Ultimately, you are the one that makes it happen. You are the one that puts yourself in the way of opportunity and the one that seizes that opportunity and makes something of it. No-one else can do that for you.
In the same way, you are also the one that gets in your own way. Whether this is conscious or unconscious, you create your own obstacles and barriers to success. Don't despair though - if you have the power to create them you also have the power to break them down. Don't stand in your own way between failure and success.
Success may be a matter of perseverance and belief in yourself but it is also about commitment, using your time wisely and working in a focussed way towards your goals. Essentially you must be organised! You cannot achieve success or do great things when everything around you is chaotic - your environment is in a mess and your mind is cluttered. Despite excuses to the contrary "organised chaos" only works in a temporary situation. Living or working in a constant state of disorganisation or a state of perpetual chaos, is just that! CHAOTIC. No other word for it!
So what are the signs and symptoms of chaos? Try these few examples for a start:-

• forever trying to find things
• constantly forgetting things
• making things up as you go along
• duplication
• often re-doing or having to fix things that weren't done properly the first time
• making mistakes
• getting easily distracted
• leaving important things to the last minute
• frequently missing deadlines
• frequently apologising
• living / working in a mess
• forever fighting the clock
• wasting time doing things that don't add any value
• getting stressed
• working longer hours but getting nowhere.

Well we've all been there to some degree but there's really no excuse. You end up just wasting your own time as well as everyone else's. And, you only have yourself to blame. This is definitely not the road to be on if you want to achieve success in your life.
If you value your time and want to get the most from it, then organisation is the key. You must be clear and decisive about what you want to achieve, using forethought and working to some sort of plan. Being organised and making efficient use of time allows you to work proactively rather than reactively. Your credibility is enhanced when people see you as being efficient and productive and you work better when you are organised and your mind is clear. Your results always speak for themselves.
If you see yourself in any of the behaviours listed above then its definitely time to stop and re-think. Our lives are demanding, it is hard to fit everything in. Change isn't always easy. But, what is the cost to your career, relationships and your life if you continue spiralling backwards?
Positive change is like compound interest - the more you put in the more you get out. Benefits are realised over time. It's not a one minute fix but it's all well worth it in the end.
Of course, organisation and time management are not the only determinants of success but they do provide a good foundation for helping you achieve your full potential.
So, do yourself and others a favour. Take control of your time now. You have the power to make the change. Take charge of your life now and reap the rewards.

I've seen the results of how getting a little organisation in your day can make major changes in your life. It's the difference between being a winner and a loser. Create lasting change in your life by making your time work better for you. Come and join other like minded people working to become more productive and successful in their lives. On my website http://www.getorganisedbeproductive.com you will find a comprehensive step by step program with valuable information to help guide you towards greater success and achievement.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6886523

Share

What Does Self Esteem Mean to You?

By Michelle Sears 

Photo: catie.org.uk
 
Do you have high self esteem or low self esteem? Answering this question honesty can have a profound impact on your life.
But why does it matter so much?
Because self esteem is the ability to love yourself completely just the way you are. No exceptions. No rules. And no possible way of every turning back.
When you truly love and accept yourself for who you are on the inside it will start to affect your outside world in ways you probably can't even imagine right now.
But give it time and you will see a difference, a huge difference, not just emotionally but physically and mentally as well.
Have you ever taken the time to ask yourself the question, what is self esteem? We all know that self esteem is an internal job but it effects so much of our external world too.
Why?
Because true change happens within not without as the great spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle says.
However, in order to truly love yourself just as you are right NOW you MUST accept everything about yourself.
Yes everything! Your weight. Your looks. Your attitude. Your job. Your spouse. Your car. Your financial situation. Your emotional situation. Your kids.
I'm talking everything. Now you don't have to like it all, at least not yet anyways, you just have to accept it for how and what it is right NOW.
So if there's something you just can't, don't or won't accept YOU must change it then. Because that is what self esteem is - total acceptance of one's self.
Loving yourself and everything about you is the first step towards self esteem building and living a more richer, rewarding, fulfilling life.
DO what needs to be done. Say "I love and accept myself", out loud or at least to yourself 100 times a day.
BE the change you want to see in the world. Create real joy for yourself. You are worth the effort, you know. And also please know that no one else can or will do it for you. You must accept the responsible to change. Then you must act.
And remember you must BE before you can DO and you must DO before you can HAVE.
Start today by loving yourself for all that you are and all that you have and all that's yet to come. Take the time to figure out what self esteem is to you.
Because now it's your turn...what is self esteem to you?

Michelle Sears is the author of http://www.selfesteem-building.com a personal development website that is packed full of information that might just help you change your life. To find out more stop by her site and let her know if you liked what you saw or not. And please send any suggestions you may have. Michelle's site was created to help you build a deeper more loving relationship with yourself.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6883566

Share

What to Do After a Big Loss

 By Aida J Ingram 

Photo: farm7.static.flickr.com
 
It the day after the big game, the big deal (that didn't go through), the goal you didn't make, and you are heartbroken. You gave it everything you had, your very best, and it didn't go according to plan. I am sure you have been there. Waking up and facing another day, when you feel as though you've failed, is hard. You put your heart and soul into something. You were sure that this was going to be that big great "fill in the blank", and then, it doesn't happen. Perhaps I am the only one this has happened to, but I doubt it! Well, here is something to think about trying.
Many of us deal with failures on a daily basis. Although, we have periods of frustration, regret and sadness, life keeps moving. So here are a few steps you can try to get yourself back into step.
First, celebrate the fact that you made an attempt. Even when you don't win, at least you know you tried. You took some risks, and played the game, and that is enough of a reason for a celebration. Many people fail because they never even tried. You got in the race, and gave it your best.
Next, look at what you learned. There are lessons everywhere. There is an even greater lesson when you fail. Ask yourself some important questions. What would I change? What did I do well? What didn't I do enough of i.e. promoting, exercising, making more calls, etc? What didn't I know before, that I know now? Asking and answering these questions can be like digging in a gold mine, and what you learn you can implement next time.
Design a better strategy, take the information you learned and turn it into a better strategy. Information is power, but only if you actually use it. Take the information you learned and turn it into a strategy that you can use the next time around. For instance, if you didn't make your sales goal, figure out how many calls you made and be willing to double it, to get even greater results. Think out of the box with some new ideas, and take some more risks. If you are trying to lose weight, and you gained instead, make a list, go to the grocery store and be more strategic about what you buy. Make it hard for you to cheat, or if you didn't go to the gym and workout, make a target and don't just hit it, exceed it. A strong strategy makes a huge difference. Next time change your strategy to make winning easier.
Lastly, get back in the saddle and try again. Well armed, with this new information start again. Many people quit when they don't reach their goals. Realistically, since you have failed in the past you already know what doesn't work, so you are more likely to be able to figure out what does work. Get back up there and try again, this maybe your winner's circle moment. With all of the hard work you put in, and with all of the information you attained, this could be your time to shine. Remember quitters never win, and winners never quit! So choose to try again, and Go for it!

Aida Ingram, is the CEO of An Inspired You, an author, marketing strategist, and Business and Life Coach. She believes people should LIVE their legacy. She teaches people how to create lives, which honor their values,gifts and abilities, while creating wealth. She specializes in business development, marketing, and bringing creative ideas to market. Visit her website: http://www.aninspiredyou.com/home.html and look on Facebook at An Inspired You. Join her mailing list http://eepurl.com/h8Q0g for valuable tips.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6854979

Share

Tips to Handle Worry

By Steven Michael Cantrell  

Photo: myhealthnewsdaily.com
 
There are always new stressors, changes and unknowns that suck enjoyment out of our lives. The ability to channel your daily energy into productive tasks, instead of being siphoned off by the rumination, anxiety and depression that come with worry is key to living to your fullest potential. I would like to discuss a few strategies that I have found useful to stay productive and mitigate worry.
Stay Focused
Did you know that when your mind wanders, it has a better chance of bringing you a negative thought rather than a positive one? By simply keeping your mind focused on the present will go a long way to avoid unpleasant and unproductive thoughts. It is easier to keep your mind from wandering when you are involved in a project - especially an enjoyable one. Try to put yourself in those situations. When you cannot, try focusing on your surroundings. Take notice of life's details that often go overlooked such as the people and things around you. This will help keep your mind from wandering. Our feelings, both good and bad, are a direct result of what we think. You have complete control over our thoughts, so choose them wisely.
Today is What's Important
Today is the tomorrow we worried about yesterday. ~Author Unknown
Yesterday happened, tomorrow is not here yet, so all we really have is today. A common source of worry is using too much mental energy on the past or future. This is not to say that you should not plan for the future or take into consideration things from the past, but many of us spend too much time worrying about what has happened or what could happen. Try to take the unknowns of life and put them on the back burner of your mind, instead of actively trying to play out every scenario. You will be surprised about how many times answers will come to you when you are able to do this.
Three Step Strategy to Avoid Worry
He is something you can do right now to reduce worry. Most worry is caused by the fear of the unknown. Let me challenge you to do the following when faced with an anxiety provoking situation.
Step 1: Ask yourself, "What's the worst that can happen?" In other words, look for the worst case scenario of your current situation.
Step 2: Accept that the worst case scenario is going to happen.
Step 3: Prepare a plan to make the best of the worst case scenario.
Once you have done these steps, there is no need to let your mind ruminate over a situation of unknowns. You have already made a plan for the worst, anything else that happens is better than the situation for which you are already mentally prepared.
The next time you find yourself anxious, I encourage you to practice the techniques discussed in this article. Hopefully, it will get your mind off what is troubling you, keep you productive, happy and able to better deal with the life's worries.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6875688

Share

15 Questions to Boost Your Confidence Into Action Today!

By Saskia Roell  

 
Photo: blog.redfin.com

Have you ever had a great idea, but you stopped before you even started?
Maybe you thought you weren't good enough, or that it was never going to work out, or that you didn't have the means to do it, or you feared that everybody would think you were crazy?
Or you wished you were braver?
The problem is that if we procrastinate, ignore, or stop the flow of our divine guidance long enough, eventually our creativity dries up.
Last week a client told me that she feared she'd lose her talent to create art. She said, "I keep waiting until I am in the mood to start painting, but somehow it never happens, and maybe it never will."
Her honesty was admirable, and we all recognize ourselves in her. We allow our minds to talk us out of taking action, and we stifle our playful self with all kinds of reasons before we allow our inspiration to flow.
The first step to tap into your creative juices is to take action, and then you'll get in the mood, not the other way around.
It's like Leonardo da Vinci said:
"I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do."
True self-confidence doesn't come from a serious ego but from the Soul, who is playful and connected to your true source of genius. So let's play!
Here's a playful approach to let go of excuses by connecting you to your playful self. Take a moment, write the answers down, and have fun. It really takes the seriousness away.
15 Questions to Boost Your Confidence Today:
1. Describe your perfect day.
2. What single experience has transformed you, and why?
3. What would you do if you were braver?
4. If you had 60 seconds to share the most important lesson learned, what would it be?
5. What are your 5 favorite activities?
6. What's one thing you experienced that blew your mind?
7. Have you ever ignored your gut feelings and then wished you hadn't? Why didn't you listen?
8. How do you drive yourself crazy?
9. What invitation will you get out of bed for at night?
10. What is the best compliment someone can give you?
11. Describe the best meal you've ever had?
12. What do you say to your friend who has lost his/her job?
13. What is something amazing about you that nobody knows?
14. What one eye-opening experience should everyone have?
15. What would make you super-proud if you accomplished it?

Using her own life as living proof that extraordinary choices lead to an extraordinary life, Saskia Röell expertly helps others do the same. She's a Soul Guidance Coach, radio host, bestselling author, and co-author with Jack Canfield, Stephen Covey and Deepak Chopra. As an international speaker, clairvoyant healer and mother of five, Saskia empowers you to move out of your comfort zone, break through your fears, and go after your heart's desires. Get access to her free "21-Day Road Map to Your Dreams" Program here: http://www.YourSoulGuidance.com.

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

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6868774

Share