With the new year, most of us are making resolutions for change.
What doesn't work must be evicted from our lives for our true passion to grow.
But how do you know the proper course?
Intuition.
It's that still small voice,
that burning in your chest or sinking feeling in your stomach.
All are signs your body enlists to gain your attention to act.
You use intuition all the time, but you may not realize it.
If you're a writer, your vibes lead to plot,
character and emotion in your story.
There is a feel to things going in the right way.
This same creative force is available in the rest of your life.
I hear grumbles.
No. I'm a plotter, I strategies, use logic to create my tales.
Even if you do outline in length, you still use a burst of creativity.
The muse dwells in your gut.
It's not mumbo-jumbo, it's science.
In The Molecules of Emotion, by Candace B. Pert, Ph.D.,
she explains the molecular association to our emotions.
Joy, fear, sadness and those niggling feelings that make us wary.
Molecules are behind all that,
chemicals sending messages and it can be measured.
For ancient man to survive,
he needed awareness on a deep level to avoid being eaten.
We still have those abilities.
Follow your gut.
When we're writing and feel stuck,
it's intuition saying we've taken the story off track.
Don't force it and plod forward.
Stop, listen and find what's off.
Your body knows--trust it.
The other week I delivered Christmas goodies to friends.
Though my friends office was close by,
I felt impressed to go out of my way and visit there last.
Was it logical?
Not at all.
I did it anyway.
I arrived to find an old school chum at the desk transacting business.
We'd lost touch some years ago.
Had I arrived five minutes sooner or later,
I would have missed her.
We hugged, traded information and reconnected.
It was meant to be.
But only because I didn't argue and chose to listen and act.
Intuition always has our best in mind.
It's what kept cave men alive, what moves you to call a friend,
take a different rout home or any number of small things in a day.
It is the small things that bless our lives.
The more you act on following your hunch the easier it becomes.
Intuition has one purpose,
to make your life better.
Who doesn't want that?
Following those feelings brought me to an awesome critique partner,
and told me to write.
It's how I met my husband,
avoided a car accident, found countless lost items,
and a plethora of other small but valuable experiences.
This week start keeping track in your journal of those feelings.
Follow them and write down what happens.
When you act on them, they will increase.
Like a muscle, the more you use it the stronger it gets.
Following your intuition will improve your life,
your writing, and you'll learn to trust your self more.
All good things.
Start small. Before you act, ask if that's the best thing.
Wait.
See how you feel.
Then move forward.
Record these experiences in your journal.
The more you do this the stronger your impressions will become.
My new years resolution:
To listen to my gut even more and act quicker.
Let me know of your experience.
Comments always valued.
Showing posts with label joy anticipation fun freedom life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label joy anticipation fun freedom life. Show all posts
Monday, January 2, 2012
Sunday, December 18, 2011
It's Just A Job.
If you've followed this blog,
you're armed with a list of your values.
This week we're going to find what work allows you to live them.
Many of us are writers.
I applaud you for owning your passion.
But what about the rest of the values on your list?
Does writing or your current occupation implement
all that sends your spirit soaring?
Not likely.
Life is multifaceted.
So are we.
Life is best when we fully express who we are.
Imagine your current employment has disappeared
requiring you do something totally different.
Do I hear grumbling?
Loosen up and enjoy the process.
This is an opportunity to learn about your nature and desires.
Take your journal and jot five alternate careers inspired from last weeks list of values.
What? You didn't do last weeks lesson.
No problem.
If you don't have your list,
I'll stand by while you read the previous post,
do the assignment and return ready for action.
Ready with your values?
Excellent!
Based on your values write five career choices in your journal.
They can be anything that fills you.
Don't edit.
No dis-qualifiers based on your current job, your age, lack of experience or funds.
Are you excited to let your imagination run free?
Let her loose!
Once you have your list of five, do you see any similarities in your choices?
True Example:
A scientist. He's good at his job, but unsatisfied.
He makes a list based on what he values:
Painter
Interior designer
photography
graphic artist
floral designer
When this gentleman viewed his choices, it surprised him.
No wonder he felt stuck in a life alien to him.
His creativity was unexplored.
It didn't feed his soul.
He made a change.
We all can.
Start small taking baby steps.
First, he bought art supplies.
He didn't paint, just had supplies.
Next week he signed up for a class.
Then, he began to dabble.
A year later he sold his first painting.
He kept his day job, but his life had changed, and become fulfilling.
All because he included value in his life.
When he retires in a few years,
he plans a trip to Paris and make painting his career.
He's happier having embraced his value of creating beauty.
With the New Year upon us,
this is an excellent time to make a resolution.
What action will you take to instill value in your work
or move to a new career?
Make a note of at least one action.
Place it where you'll see it for motivation.
No guilt.
You're busy, these actions should bring you joy.
If they feel burdensome,
you don't have a value, you have a should.
Each week, add a new action that brings you closer to your authentic self.
What ever you choose--Do It.
Feel the energy flow into you, the joy, and love for life.
As you fill yourself, you fill others.
You're a gift and your talents bless the world.
Express them.
I applaud your courage and efforts to stand firm in your values.
I am blessed by your example.
you're armed with a list of your values.
This week we're going to find what work allows you to live them.
Many of us are writers.
I applaud you for owning your passion.
But what about the rest of the values on your list?
Does writing or your current occupation implement
all that sends your spirit soaring?
Not likely.
Life is multifaceted.
So are we.
Life is best when we fully express who we are.
Imagine your current employment has disappeared
requiring you do something totally different.
Do I hear grumbling?
Loosen up and enjoy the process.
This is an opportunity to learn about your nature and desires.
Take your journal and jot five alternate careers inspired from last weeks list of values.
What? You didn't do last weeks lesson.
No problem.
If you don't have your list,
I'll stand by while you read the previous post,
do the assignment and return ready for action.
Ready with your values?
Excellent!
Based on your values write five career choices in your journal.
They can be anything that fills you.
Don't edit.
No dis-qualifiers based on your current job, your age, lack of experience or funds.
Are you excited to let your imagination run free?
Let her loose!
Once you have your list of five, do you see any similarities in your choices?
True Example:
A scientist. He's good at his job, but unsatisfied.
He makes a list based on what he values:
Painter
Interior designer
photography
graphic artist
floral designer
When this gentleman viewed his choices, it surprised him.
No wonder he felt stuck in a life alien to him.
His creativity was unexplored.
It didn't feed his soul.
He made a change.
We all can.
Start small taking baby steps.
First, he bought art supplies.
He didn't paint, just had supplies.
Next week he signed up for a class.
Then, he began to dabble.
A year later he sold his first painting.
He kept his day job, but his life had changed, and become fulfilling.
All because he included value in his life.
When he retires in a few years,
he plans a trip to Paris and make painting his career.
He's happier having embraced his value of creating beauty.
With the New Year upon us,
this is an excellent time to make a resolution.
What action will you take to instill value in your work
or move to a new career?
Make a note of at least one action.
Place it where you'll see it for motivation.
No guilt.
You're busy, these actions should bring you joy.
If they feel burdensome,
you don't have a value, you have a should.
Each week, add a new action that brings you closer to your authentic self.
What ever you choose--Do It.
Feel the energy flow into you, the joy, and love for life.
As you fill yourself, you fill others.
You're a gift and your talents bless the world.
Express them.
I applaud your courage and efforts to stand firm in your values.
I am blessed by your example.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Tis The Season For Giving--What Again?
Some dread the lines at the store,
the lists of gifts to purchase, and expense.
Is that what we focus on?
Giving is an opportunity to show others what they mean to us.
It's the thrill of watching eyes light up or glisten with emotion.
Why do we give?
Is it because we owe a present?
Is it expected and an obligation?
That's not a gift.
Gifts have no strings.
They come from the heart. They don't expect anything in return.
They are tokens of gratitude for sharing a life and connection.
Gifts are free to the receiver and expand the giver.
It all rests on our attitude.
They don't have to be purchased, but can be.
They come on the form of hugs, encouragement,
cards, e-mails, phone calls, and carefully wrapped packages.
Gifts can be given anytime.
For no particular reason.
No holiday or birthday required to spread a little love.
Does it put a silly grin on your face when your honey brings you flowers just because?
Of course!
Does my hubby get extra loving for the effort?
Yes, and he then has an equally silly grin.
Give what you can from your heart.
I knew an older woman who gave what she liked.
Often ornately, hand decorated, huge Christmas ornaments.
She enjoyed making them.
Unfortunately, many didn't appreciate the thought.
One receiver had a closet where she tossed such creative efforts.
Another woman told me she hid the ornaments in the back of her tree,
where they wouldn't be seen and mar her decorating.
Really?
I'm not kidding.
They missed the point.
Perhaps the bobbles were overpowering,
but the giver cared enough to spend hours adding each bead and pearl.
Her back ached as she struggled to glue another ribbon in place,
until she felt it worthy of those she loved.
I received a number of these over the years,
and gave them a place of honor among my decorations.
When she came to visit, she smiled,
tears fell from her blue eyes and down her wrinkled cheeks.
Because I valued her gift she felt valued.
She's gone now, but I'll still hang her ornaments with love.
Giving goes both ways.
Do we receive the gifts given?
Those who stashed the ornaments didn't receive.
All lost out.
Look beyond to the meaning.
To be loved is everything.
When someone gives believe they care.
Let it touch your heart.
Receive.
Make the effort to give meaningful gifts.
A writer who uses a particular pen and can always use another.
A child would love to help bake cookies.
Giving is a present to all.
Does this sound like work?
It doesn't have to be.
A letter of gratitude and love is a meaningful gift.
Lunch, grabbing a drink, or going to the dollar movie.
This week jot down three people you want to really give to.
Make it real.
Make it matter to both of you.
Give it thought.
It's worth it.
Once you give the gift.
Write how the process felt, how it was received,
and how it affected you.
You are gifts I cherish.
Your comments let me know my small efforts lift a heart, encourage, and clarify.
Thank you for that gift.
I receive it with joy.
Bless you!
the lists of gifts to purchase, and expense.
Is that what we focus on?
Giving is an opportunity to show others what they mean to us.
It's the thrill of watching eyes light up or glisten with emotion.
Why do we give?
Is it because we owe a present?
Is it expected and an obligation?
That's not a gift.
Gifts have no strings.
They come from the heart. They don't expect anything in return.
They are tokens of gratitude for sharing a life and connection.
Gifts are free to the receiver and expand the giver.
It all rests on our attitude.
They don't have to be purchased, but can be.
They come on the form of hugs, encouragement,
cards, e-mails, phone calls, and carefully wrapped packages.
Gifts can be given anytime.
For no particular reason.
No holiday or birthday required to spread a little love.
Does it put a silly grin on your face when your honey brings you flowers just because?
Of course!
Does my hubby get extra loving for the effort?
Yes, and he then has an equally silly grin.
Give what you can from your heart.
I knew an older woman who gave what she liked.
Often ornately, hand decorated, huge Christmas ornaments.
She enjoyed making them.
Unfortunately, many didn't appreciate the thought.
One receiver had a closet where she tossed such creative efforts.
Another woman told me she hid the ornaments in the back of her tree,
where they wouldn't be seen and mar her decorating.
Really?
I'm not kidding.
They missed the point.
Perhaps the bobbles were overpowering,
but the giver cared enough to spend hours adding each bead and pearl.
Her back ached as she struggled to glue another ribbon in place,
until she felt it worthy of those she loved.
I received a number of these over the years,
and gave them a place of honor among my decorations.
When she came to visit, she smiled,
tears fell from her blue eyes and down her wrinkled cheeks.
Because I valued her gift she felt valued.
She's gone now, but I'll still hang her ornaments with love.
Giving goes both ways.
Do we receive the gifts given?
Those who stashed the ornaments didn't receive.
All lost out.
Look beyond to the meaning.
To be loved is everything.
When someone gives believe they care.
Let it touch your heart.
Receive.
Make the effort to give meaningful gifts.
A writer who uses a particular pen and can always use another.
A child would love to help bake cookies.
Giving is a present to all.
Does this sound like work?
It doesn't have to be.
A letter of gratitude and love is a meaningful gift.
Lunch, grabbing a drink, or going to the dollar movie.
This week jot down three people you want to really give to.
Make it real.
Make it matter to both of you.
Give it thought.
It's worth it.
Once you give the gift.
Write how the process felt, how it was received,
and how it affected you.
You are gifts I cherish.
Your comments let me know my small efforts lift a heart, encourage, and clarify.
Thank you for that gift.
I receive it with joy.
Bless you!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
I have a life, I do, I think.
Have you heard of "flow"?
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi wrote a book called, "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience."
When you're in the flow, you're happy, feeling connected, and focused on what you're doing. It's the intense concentration of enjoying an activity to the point that time stands still. Three hours means nothing.
"High-flow" is when you're doing things that fit the above description.
"Low-flow" is the opposite. You're not focused, not engaged, time drags. You're a lump.
This study brings us to this weeks lesson: Television.
Watching television is one of the lowest flow activities out there. It requires next to nothing from you, and it's addictive. The study confirmed that television viewing sucks your energy, not just your time.
And it does that to the tune of 6 hours per day for the average American.
That's 42 hours a week!
But you affirm you're not a T.V. addict. That you couldn't possibly be spending that much time zoning in front of the tube.
Have you logged the time? Make a quick mental run through of the hours the television is on. Letting the morning news rumble in the background as you get ready for work does count.
I'll wait. Have a rough number?
Now that you have a clearer idea.
How fast could you accomplish your bucket list if you gave up television?
No television for one week, none, zero, zilch.
Is the panic setting in, pulse racing, palms sweaty, anxiety crushing your chest?
Yeah, your not an addict--no.
Going cold turkey may not be reasonable. Can you breathe now?
After all, your spouse or kids may have a melt down.
You could let them watch, while you remove yourself from the siren's call and do other things.
I'm serious.
If the thought of not being able to turn on the T.V. and bury yourself in the mindless glow is too much. Make a deal with yourself to cut back your viewing by half. Choose the programs you'll spend time watching, and when they're over, turn the box off.
What could we do in stead?
I have a neighbor that runs marathons. A friend takes classes. One in learning to knit, another is sewing quilts for charity. A few are writing novels. Start a business.
Here's a unique idea. We could spend time creating relationships with real people, rather than the empty, voyeuristic, fake connection with the television.
What do we do when we sit before the T.V?
We watch other people have a life.
Turn off the television and create a life of your own!
You deserve to experience the flow and joy of living.
Don't sit back as a spectator. Do!
In your journal, jot down the time spent in front of the T.V. or having it on to keep you company.
Many of us suppress emotions by checking out before the tube. Turning it off may allow feelings to surface. That's good. We have the opportunity to deal with things we've avoided.
Avoidance doesn't change anything or make it better.
As emotions come up, write about them in your journal.
I want to hear from you.
FYI: Reading is not low flow. It makes you visualize, use your mind, and think. It's a focused activity.
No need to feel guilty about a good book.
Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi wrote a book called, "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience."
When you're in the flow, you're happy, feeling connected, and focused on what you're doing. It's the intense concentration of enjoying an activity to the point that time stands still. Three hours means nothing.
"High-flow" is when you're doing things that fit the above description.
"Low-flow" is the opposite. You're not focused, not engaged, time drags. You're a lump.
This study brings us to this weeks lesson: Television.
Watching television is one of the lowest flow activities out there. It requires next to nothing from you, and it's addictive. The study confirmed that television viewing sucks your energy, not just your time.
And it does that to the tune of 6 hours per day for the average American.
That's 42 hours a week!
But you affirm you're not a T.V. addict. That you couldn't possibly be spending that much time zoning in front of the tube.
Have you logged the time? Make a quick mental run through of the hours the television is on. Letting the morning news rumble in the background as you get ready for work does count.
I'll wait. Have a rough number?
Now that you have a clearer idea.
How fast could you accomplish your bucket list if you gave up television?
No television for one week, none, zero, zilch.
Is the panic setting in, pulse racing, palms sweaty, anxiety crushing your chest?
Yeah, your not an addict--no.
Going cold turkey may not be reasonable. Can you breathe now?
After all, your spouse or kids may have a melt down.
You could let them watch, while you remove yourself from the siren's call and do other things.
I'm serious.
What could we do in stead?
I have a neighbor that runs marathons. A friend takes classes. One in learning to knit, another is sewing quilts for charity. A few are writing novels. Start a business.
Here's a unique idea. We could spend time creating relationships with real people, rather than the empty, voyeuristic, fake connection with the television.
What do we do when we sit before the T.V?
We watch other people have a life.
Turn off the television and create a life of your own!
You deserve to experience the flow and joy of living.
Don't sit back as a spectator. Do!
In your journal, jot down the time spent in front of the T.V. or having it on to keep you company.
Many of us suppress emotions by checking out before the tube. Turning it off may allow feelings to surface. That's good. We have the opportunity to deal with things we've avoided.
Avoidance doesn't change anything or make it better.
As emotions come up, write about them in your journal.
I want to hear from you.
FYI: Reading is not low flow. It makes you visualize, use your mind, and think. It's a focused activity.
No need to feel guilty about a good book.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Life Is Great, Unless...
Not if you're just going through the motions and dragging your sorry hiney around. It may be that you lack something to look forward to.
This is not a lesson on gratitude, though being grateful is important. We're talking about creating something that brings the energy of anticipation into your life. Do you recall being a kid, counting down until the last day of school, and the warm air of summer freed you to sleeping in, bike rides with friends, gabbing to all hours, and staying up late just because you could? Ah, the elusive joy of youth.
Get a grip.
Being young has little to do with it. It's the joy created by anticipation. Life was an exhilarating adventure because you made it so. Time to get serious about living and have some fun.
If you look at your week and your biggest thrill is falling into bed, something is wrong. It doesn't have to be that way. Everything is a choice. Choose to enjoy living. Choose to create something to look forward to daily.
Here it is. Write a list of 20 things that you enjoy. Things you can plan to do that will put that spring in your step. Anticipate them and watch a grin spread over your face.
Here are some ideas:
Call a friend.
Enjoy a bottle of wine and watch the sunset.
Make love.
Meet friends for lunch.
Hug someone.
Read to a child.
Meditate.
Watch an old movie with your buddies or your lover and munch popcorn.
Ride your bike, your Harley or hike.
Sign up for a class you've been longing to take, watercolor, Martial arts, cooking, survival training. Whatever!
Pass out candy at work or buy flowers.
Maybe make Wednesday your special breakfast or coffee treat morning. Thursday you have Tai Chi, Friday it's dinner with friends or your sweety. Everyday needs to have something to look forward to.
Write your list in your journal and start implementing it. Jot down how you feel adding things to anticipate. Plan for something special every week and at the end of the month or year.
We love vacations in part, because we get juiced up anticipating them.
This week, I'm anticipating time with my grand-daughter. What about you?
This is not a lesson on gratitude, though being grateful is important. We're talking about creating something that brings the energy of anticipation into your life. Do you recall being a kid, counting down until the last day of school, and the warm air of summer freed you to sleeping in, bike rides with friends, gabbing to all hours, and staying up late just because you could? Ah, the elusive joy of youth.
Get a grip.
Being young has little to do with it. It's the joy created by anticipation. Life was an exhilarating adventure because you made it so. Time to get serious about living and have some fun.
If you look at your week and your biggest thrill is falling into bed, something is wrong. It doesn't have to be that way. Everything is a choice. Choose to enjoy living. Choose to create something to look forward to daily.
Here it is. Write a list of 20 things that you enjoy. Things you can plan to do that will put that spring in your step. Anticipate them and watch a grin spread over your face.
Here are some ideas:
Call a friend.
Enjoy a bottle of wine and watch the sunset.
Make love.
Meet friends for lunch.
Hug someone.
Read to a child.
Meditate.
Watch an old movie with your buddies or your lover and munch popcorn.
Ride your bike, your Harley or hike.
Sign up for a class you've been longing to take, watercolor, Martial arts, cooking, survival training. Whatever!
Pass out candy at work or buy flowers.
Maybe make Wednesday your special breakfast or coffee treat morning. Thursday you have Tai Chi, Friday it's dinner with friends or your sweety. Everyday needs to have something to look forward to.
Write your list in your journal and start implementing it. Jot down how you feel adding things to anticipate. Plan for something special every week and at the end of the month or year.
We love vacations in part, because we get juiced up anticipating them.
This week, I'm anticipating time with my grand-daughter. What about you?
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