Typically, it’s easier to expend energy when it feels like we’re not doing anything at all. You may be passionate about knitting, so spending some extra time doing that will actually help you to regain energy, which is much more positive than trying to force yourself to do something that feels like pulling teeth. Just because something feels “easy,” that doesn’t mean you’re being lazy. I know what it feels like to be doing something you’re passionate about and to feel like you’re not doing anything at all, like you’re wasting precious time. But in reality, you’re giving yourself a wonderful gift.
read more >‘Happiness’ Daily Tips:
Find the Silver Lining
September 4th, 2009
Our lives are composed of both negative and positive experiences. These experiences range in their intensity; however, regardless of the intensity, one must always remember that now is everything. When you’re experiencing happiness – truly experience that happiness (don’t feel bad about it!). And when you’re experiencing sadness – allow yourself to let go and cry – ask for support. It’s okay to cry, feel sorry for yourself, or become upset. The most important thing to remember: there is always hope.
After the first wave of emotion passes, we need to face the challenge and move forward. Part of that process involves looking for the positive in the situation, which may at first glance seem impossible. But through support and small steps, you empower yourself to take back control.
Now, think of something negative that you have experienced. Can you look back on it now and identify the good things that came out of your misfortune? Perhaps being laid off prompted you to start a new career or maybe a serious illness encouraged you to quit smoking. If you have difficulty finding the blessings hidden in tragedy, try looking at the experience from several different perspectives.
read more >Be Content
September 3rd, 2009
Imagine feeling completely fulfilled by what you currently have – not wanting anything more. You only focus on what you do have versus what you don’t have.
The need for something more prevents us from feeling fulfilled. And it often creates a vicious cycle. We become energized by instant gratification. So should we sit back and settle for a life path we don’t want or rest on our laurels? No – quite the opposite. We must maintain focus on our lives today, right now – and focus on this moment rather than waiting for the “right moment.” It means letting go of the need for instant gratification.
read more >Tip #58: Create a Serenity Trigger
August 18th, 2009
In our fast-paced, multitasking, day-to-day lives, we often find ourselves adrift in chaos. Within this chaos, finding our inner calm is just as important —actually more so — than completing our next task. It allows us to recharge and breathe just a bit easier. It’s incredible what just five minutes of serenity can do for your energy level and mental state.
Now, think about how you currently deal with chaotic moments in your life. If you would like to change your current response to those chaotic moments, create a serenity trigger that will help you find a peaceful place whenever the need arises. This trigger serves as a reminder for you to take a few minutes away from what you’re doing to find serenity amidst chaos. It could be as simple as an image or a positive word/phrase.
read more >Tip #57: Embrace Your Imagination
August 17th, 2009
Imagination is often hindered by day-to-day life. It can be scary! So why is something “exciting” — scary? Why do we often resist imagining our lives differently?
Our imagination often reveals what we want and need within our lives — something that may be exciting. But if you’re anything like how I used to be, you avoid embracing your imagination because it’s often easier to believe that ignorance is bliss. Why know what we’re missing out on?
Now, consider how you use (or don’t use) your imagination. For a few minutes, allow your creativity and imagination run wild. You must decide if your imagination is worth embracing. [Yes, it is!] Then, you are left with two choices: ignore what you want and keep this knowledge hidden deep within yourself OR begin working incredibly hard to create personal change. I choose change.
read more >What people are saying
— Kevin Milne, author of The Paper Bag Christmas and The Nine Lessons Read morePerseverance demonstrates the practical application of hope in everyday life. Its true stories of cancer-conquerors will shed new light on what it means to overcome adversity.