The trick is to spread your focus fairly equally among the different areas of your life. This just means that, while your work life might be stressful, you can’t ignore your relationships, spirituality, or other things that are also important to you.

The situation can be likened to beautiful music performed by a skilled orchestra. Every instrument performs in perfect harmony with the others. Sometimes one instrument will come forward into the spotlight, while the other instruments pause or continue playing quietly, fulfilling their part of the total beauty.

Try the following techniques to bring the beauty of balance and harmony to your life:

1. Avoid total focus on only one issue. If you spend all of your energy on one aspect of your life, the others fall by the wayside. If you must spend a great deal of time on one area temporarily, make an extra effort to include other important things as much as possible.

* For example, if you must stay late at work, call home to talk with your spouse on one of your breaks. After work, use your free time wisely to concentrate on other areas of your life.

2. Reflect on your goals and dreams. Take time to consider your goals and dreams. Come up with a plan to follow through and start taking action toward them. Even if you feel that you aren’t in the position to take great action, some action is better than nothing.

3. Eliminate stress. Stress arises in your life as a sign that things aren’t in balance. It’s a natural indicator that tells you it’s time to take action. If you ignore it, the situation only gets worse.

* When you determine the root cause of the stress and reduce it as much as possible, you’ll find that things naturally tend to move back towards harmony.
4. Get proper rest. An important part of finding balance and harmony is getting enough sleep. If you feel the need to continually squeeze in one more thing and deprive yourself of sleep because of it, set a bedtime and follow it religiously.

5. Explore spirituality. Another way to find balance and harmony is to explore your spiritual side. Many religions specifically address the issue of finding balance in your life.

6. Take up yoga. Yoga is a practice that goes beyond some simple stretches in order to keep fit. It’s an ancient art that addresses your mind, body and spirit. It’s a great way to get your whole day into balance, and you’ll no doubt leave your yoga session refreshed and relaxed.

When your life is in harmony, everything seems to be easier. You’re less stressed, more energized, and you have the time to enjoy the things that are most important to you. Take action to bring this balance into your life and enjoy all it has to offer you.

Green said:
“Clearly I am the most important. I am the sign of life and of hope. I was chosen for grass, trees and leaves. Without me, all animals would die. Look over the countryside and you will see that I am in the majority.”

Blue interrupted:
“You only think about the earth, but consider the sky and the sea. It is the water that is the basis of life and drawn up by the clouds from the deep sea. The sky gives space and peace and serenity. Without my peace, you would all be nothing.”

Yellow chuckled:
“You are all so serious. I bring laughter, gaiety, and warmth into the world. The sun is yellow, the moon is yellow, the stars are yellow. Every time you look at a sunflower, the whole world starts to smile. Without me there would be no fun.”

Orange started next to blow her trumpet:
“I am the color of health and strength. I may be scarce, but I am precious for I serve the needs of human life. I carry the most important vitamins. Think of carrots, pumpkins, oranges, mangoes, and papayas. I don’t hang around all the time, but when I fill the sky at sunrise or sunset, my beauty is so striking that no one gives another thought to any of you.”

Red could stand it no longer he shouted out:
“I am the ruler of all of you. I am blood – life’s blood! I am the color of danger and of bravery. I am willing to fight for a cause. I bring fire into the blood. Without me, the earth would be as empty as the moon. I am the color of passion and of love, the red rose, the poinsettia and the poppy.”

Purple rose up to his full height:
He was very tall and spoke with great pomp: “I am the color of royalty and power. Kings, chiefs, and bishops have always chosen me for I am the sign of authority and wisdom. People do not question me! They listen and obey.”

Finally Indigo spoke, much more quietly than all the others, but with just as much determination:
“Think of me. I am the color of silence. You hardly notice me, but without me you all become superficial. I represent thought and reflection, twilight and deep water. You need me for balance and contrast, for prayer and inner peace.”

And so the colors went on boasting, each convinced of his or her own superiority. Their quarreling became louder and louder. Suddenly there was a startling flash of bright lightening thunder rolled and boomed. Rain started to pour down relentlessly. The colors crouched down in fear, drawing close to one another for comfort.

In the midst of the clamor, rain began to speak:
“You foolish colors, fighting amongst yourselves, each trying to dominate the rest. Don’t you know that you were each made for a special purpose, unique and different? Join hands with one another and come to me.”

Doing as they were told, the colors united and joined hands.

The rain continued:
“From now on, when it rains, each of you will stretch across the sky in a great bow of color as a reminder that you can all live in peace. The Rainbow is a sign of hope for tomorrow.”

And so, whenever a good rain washes the world, and a Rainbow appears in the sky, let us remember to appreciate one another.

— Author Unknown

Here are some ideas to help you enjoy more happiness every day:

1. Turn off the news, TV, and computer. While theses things can be helpful to keep you informed and entertained, it’s important to remember life without them. You’ll be amazed at how many projects you can complete without these distractions!

* For example, instead of mindlessly watching another rerun of Seinfeld, complete a photo album or redecorate a room.

2. Take a class. Almost everyone has a hobby they’ve been meaning to try for a long time. It’s time to actually do it. Take the plunge and take a class!

* Most communities have a mail-out or website that lists their class schedule. You’ll find that they’re affordable too!

3. Get in touch with a friend. The Internet has made it easier than ever to reconnect with people from your past. Whether you last spoke to your friend last month or decades ago, it can be a joyful activity. Reflect on your friendship and discuss the good times you’ve had.

4. Start a garden. There are many plants and herbs that you can grow both indoors and outdoors. Experiment with different plants or grow some vegetables that you’ll enjoy later on, too. There’s nothing like the taste of homegrown vegetables!

5. Dabble in arts and crafts. There are so many fun activities that involve arts and crafts. Just take a trip down the aisle of your local craft store to get some ideas. For low cost alternatives, go to your nearest dollar store. You’ll be amazed at your new treasures!

6. Go for a walk or a nature hike. Take your family or go alone. Walking and hiking can be a great break in your day. You’ll be able to reflect, relax, and enjoy the fresh air.

7. Organize a sports night. Get some of your friends together for a game every once in awhile. It’s always beneficial to get a little exercise and it will be fun to socialize, too.

8. Start stargazing. On a peaceful, clear night, get in touch with nature in a different way. Enjoy the stars! Pick up an astronomy guide and learn to identify the planets and constellations.

9. Try journaling. One great way to reflect on your day and get to know yourself is by journaling. For additional fun, pretend you’re writing to a long lost friend or write a letter to yourself in the future.

10. Learn to cook something new. It’s always a good idea to add exciting new meals to your repertoire. Find a recipe website or a cookbook and try something you’ve never tried before.

11. Have a game night. Gather your family together for some fun and games. Invite friends over to add to the fun. If you’re feeling especially creative, try designing your very own board game and play that one.

12. Be a tourist. You can become a tourist without ever leaving your hometown. It’s likely that you haven’t been everywhere in your town. Pretend you’re on vacation and try all the tourist attractions. You’ll learn something new and may even discover places you’ll enjoy visiting often!

You’ll soon find that opportunities for joy in your life are around every corner. With a little creative thinking, you can have a great time every day, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money to do it, either.

Whether you realize it or not, every day brings you closer to your goals and dreams. You may feel like you have a long way to go, but you’re closer than you think. Avoid giving up or getting discouraged. Keep moving forward. Every setback is a learning experience that brings you closer to your goal.

When people tell you all the reasons you’ll fail, or when you try to do something but receive a less than perfect outcome, avoid taking to heart. People always have opinions, and they can be – and usually are – wrong. Each failure can be a stepping-stone if you turn it into one. Even professional athletes and actors make mistakes. It’s okay to be human!

Your successful outcome may arrive next month, next week, or even today. When you stop before you complete your goal or dream, you lose the chance to see yourself completely fulfilled and reach the destiny that you were created for. You just might be hours away from your goals!

How to Keep Moving Forward

Moving forward is critical to reaching your goal, and you can find ways to keep going each and every day. When you look for ways to move ahead, you inch closer and closer to your goal. As you see it getting closer, you’ll put in a greater effort to reach it. That speeds up the process and it makes you happier and healthier, both mentally and spiritually.

The correct approach for you depends on how you work best. Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to stay on the right path until you reach the goal that you’ve set for yourself. You can:

* Keep a journal so you can keep track of what you’ve accomplished every day.
* Surround yourself with like-minded people who are also interested in achieving a common goal.
* Remove negativity from your life by choosing to focus on happiness and joy.
* Stay busy, instead of allowing yourself to just sit around and make excuses.

Remember that reaching a goal can mean a dramatic change in your life. This is often a change for the better, however. With change comes uncertainty, and uncertainty is uncomfortable for many people. If you’re willing to leave your comfort zone, you can experience an abundant life of prosperity and joy that is filled with everything you’ve always dreamed about. Embrace the changes that lead to the future you deserve.

It’s important that you understand the value of change and accept that it can bring much good to your life. Certainly, there are unpleasant changes that can occur in your life. However, if you keep taking steps forward toward your dreams, most of the change you’ll experience will bring satisfaction to your heart and fulfillment to your soul.

Accept, enjoy, and celebrate the changes that come into your life. Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable, and you’ll be in the driver seat toward your destiny. If you confidently go after what you want, you can confidently expect that the changes you experience will be positive ones. Keep an open mind and a positive attitude. Expect success and you will attain that success!

Driving down the highway with only a few feet of visibility?

You could be just a short distance from a beautiful vast ocean and not be able to see it.

You look up in the sky and all you see is a dense heavy layer of fog.

Driving in the fog can be quite scary at times.  You have your headlights on, drive slower, more cautiously, keeping your eyes open for other vehicles on the road – especially slower vehicles.  Sometimes you have to strain to see the lines on the road in order for you to stay in your lane and not cross over into oncoming traffic.

You keep driving in faith that you will reach your destination.  You know your destination is there -  Even if you’ve never been there before, you know it is there.

This is the way life is.  We never really know what’s up ahead. We thrust forward believing that what lays ahead will provide a happier brighter future for us.

Would you be driving around in the fog if you had no destination?

Probably not.  The question is – Are you living your life in this fog?

Do you know where you’re going and how to get there?

Have you pulled out your map of life and written down the directions to get where you want to go?

You say there is no map of life???

But, there is …..

If you’re like most people, you probably find a car to follow when you’re driving in the fog.  You utilize not only the light of their car – but also rely on the fact that they have already driven the road that you will soon be on.

You’ll find that many people have been where you are now and have arrived at where you want to be.  They have taken various roads to get there.  Discover the various paths they took and find the road with the least resistance to follow.

This is the map of life – Find somebody that is where you want to be … and follow their map.  It’s so much easier than driving down an unmarked dirt road that has never been travelled before.  Stop driving aimlessly in the fog of life.

The truth is, there is nothing you can do to stop change. This world is always changing – sometimes for good and sometimes not. The best thing you can do for yourself is to learn the best ways to adapt to change. You’ll soon learn that there’s no reason to fear!

Here is a list of strategies to conquer your fear of change:

1. Think Positive Thoughts. When you embark on a change in your life, think it through in a positive way. Instead of thinking about what could go wrong, picture it all going right.

2. Learning Life Lessons. Think about some of the past changes you’ve gone through in your life and include both the positive outcomes and the negative ones. Regardless of your past, it’s likely that you’ve learned an important life lesson. Yet, if you keep your life stagnant, you’ll lose out on the many important life lessons and experiences.

3. Write Your Thoughts Down. Writing down your innermost thoughts can provide a similar release as confiding with a close friend. Change can be scary, but if you provide yourself with a way to conquer the fear, you can find the courage underneath.

4. Try Hypnosis. Hypnosis and self-hypnosis techniques have been known to help when we need to alter our thinking. Hypnosis can help you relax by feeding you transformative thoughts.

5. Positive Motivation. If you want to get over your fear of change, you have to actually want the change. If you do, you’ll do whatever it takes to get motivated. You can do this by reciting affirmations, writing directions down for yourself, or asking a trusted friend or family member for help.

6. Stay in the Present. Staying in the present moment can help you conquer any fear. It’s far too easy for your mind to get caught up with regrets about the past or worries about the future. In moments of self-doubt, focus only on whatever you’re doing at the moment. This moment is all you have, so you might as well enjoy it!

7. Break Down the Change. If you’re planning a big change in your life, perhaps it will help to break down the change into a series of smaller steps. Doing so will help you to feel less overwhelmed if you can easily transition into a change instead of feeling shocked and scared.

8. The Right Time. Remember that it’s always the right time to change. Don’t make excuses for yourself. Believe that you can do it and go for it!

9. The Back Up Plan. When you embark on a path of change, it may be the unknown that scares you most. If possible, carefully plan through your change. Think about all the possible scenarios and outcomes – positive or negative – then make a plan. When you have a plan, you’ll ease your fears of the unknown and feel at least a little more comfortable with the change.

Change for the Better

Change is going to find you one way or another, so you might as well learn how to go with the flow and learn how to let go. Sure, this is easier said than done, however, learning how to better adapt to change can improve all aspects of your life!

Or

Do you believe the New Year’s holiday is an opportunity for change?

Resolution makers generally fall into one of three categories:

1. Serious Resolution Makers

These individuals dedicate themselves to reach their goal – usually in self-improvement. They set their goals and plan the steps to achieve them. They take ACTION.

2. Good Intentions

These people really want to change. They say “This year will be different”. They probably manage the first week or two of following through then they abandon them. These people usually have a plan to begin with.

3. On the Spot Resolutions

These poople make up a New Yeaar’s Resoultion on the spot when they are asked what their resoultuion is. They rarely have any intentions on following through.

What group do you fall into?

Often times people don’t take New Years Resoulutions seriously. They believe it’s all a big joke ….

New Years is actually the perfect time to dedicate yourself to a goal. Here’s why:

• You can reflect on your successes and failures of the previous year
• You have the right frame of mind to plan for the future
• It’s easier to gain the support of family and friends that have thesame or similar goals
• It’s easy to measure your goals. The timeframe of a year is an excellent yardstick
• You have 12 months which is enought time to plan, execute and achieve your goals – even if you hit some roadblocks along the way.

Why do we make resolutions?

Think about your past resolutions …

• Why did you make them?
• What did you hope to accomplish?
• Were you just going along with the crowd?
• Did you really want to change your life?
• Did you take the opportunity to change your lfie seriously?
• Do you subcribe to the theory “Resolutions are made to be broken”?

Do you really want to change your life?

YOU CAN!!!

Want to give it a try?

Here’s how:

1. Choose a resolution that you believe you can attain. If you choose a goal to lose 30 pounds in January or to exercise an hour every day you’ll brobably give up because within a week or so you’ll feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Choosing small goals you can attain helps you to create a pattern of success.
2. Break it up into small steps. Any large goal can be broken into a series of smaller goals. For example, if you want to lose 50 pounds, begin by setting a smaller goal. Maybe losing five pounds is a good start.
3. Set a Deadline. Having a deadline helps you to stay on track and to track your progress. For example, if your goal is to lose 50 pounds, and your smaller goal is 5 pounds a month, you should achieve your big goal in 10 months. (Sound like a long time? How fast did 2008 pass?)
4. Reward yourself – For each small success you need to reward yourself. If your goal is to lose weight, then you don’t want to reward yourself with food. You may want a new outfit, a night out, a massage – get creative.
5. Be Prepared – Regardless of your resoulution you will have obstacles to face. Plan for these obstacles and be prepared to face them head-on. For example, if your goal is to stop smoking, be prepared for cravings and have something ready to distract you for 5 to 10 minutes. (Any type of cravings rarely last longer than 10 minutes)

New Year’s Resolutions don’t have to be broken!

Establish a Winning Attitude, Set Proper Goals, and your New Year’s Resolutions will be life changing and rewarding experiences.

WISHING YOU A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS 2012!!!

Following Your Heart

Sometimes following your heart instead of your mind can seem like the “weak” thing to do. This is not the case; following your heart is following the core of your beliefs and is usually the best thing you can do.

When you follow your heart, you’re usually happy. Happy people enjoy their lives and are usually healthier in the long run. If you want to be happy, you must learn how to follow your heart.

You can begin following your heart by keeping these tips in mind:

1. Trust your subconscious thoughts. It can be tough to stay in touch with your subconscious thoughts, but they make up your initial instincts and they’re close to your heart. You know that the truth will be revealed to you if you give yourself enough time. Learn to trust yourself.

2. Go with what feels right. Don’t be afraid to take action towards the things that feel right. If something feels off to you, you can stop and explore the reasons why. It always starts with a feeling. Go in the direction of your positive feelings.

3. Avoid over thinking. Sometimes your mind can get away from you and start cycling through negative thoughts. Take deep breaths and get back into a positive mindset so that you can see your true path more clearly.

Trusting Your Instincts

There are several good techniques that can help you better grasp the process of trusting your instincts. Some of these common solutions might work for you.

These strategies can help you trust your instincts:

1. Stick with your gut feeling. Following your heart and instincts are very similar things. It’s important to go with your initial thoughts. This is because it’s likely a thought that’s coming from within and not something you’ve had time to think endlessly about. You’d be amazed with how many times you just end up going with your initial feeling anyway.

2. Write down your thoughts. It might help to engage in a free writing session. Pick up a pen and just write your thoughts down as they come. Try not to put the pen down. It doesn’t matter if you start writing some things that don’t pertain to the subject. After reading your notes, you’ll probably get a better idea about your base instincts.

3. Keep yourself in a relaxed state. It’s always best to do your thinking while you’re relaxed. That way you know you’re not making any strained decisions. Do what you can to relax yourself, whether it’s deep breathing, a warm bath, or meditation techniques.

4. Avoid changing your mind unless there’s a valid reason. Occasionally, you’ll know that your initial instinct was wrong. In this case, if you have a valid reason to change your mind, you should do so. However, if you don’t have a good reason, just follow through with your initial thoughts.

You’ll find that most of the time your instincts and heart are correct in the end. Even when they’re not, banish discouragement and keep practicing. Maintain a positive attitude and keep trying and soon your heart and instincts will be your guiding lights.

When your life gets crazy, you can’t let the busyness take over your mind. You need to put yourself first to maintain your mental health.

Here are eight tips for keeping a clear mind:

1. Get organized. Your life can be much easier if you maintain a good level of organization. You’ll save time and gain a feeling of control over your circumstances. The time you save allows you the opportunity to take care of yourself with relaxation exercises or the pursuit of hobbies that you enjoy.

* Each day, create a to-do list. Rank your items from the most important to the least important. As you go through your day, attack the most important items on the list first. At the end of the day, you walk away with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you used your time in the most effective way possible.

2. Take time for yourself. Carve out time for yourself every day, no matter how busy you are. Give yourself permission to relax and enjoy these moments, even though you know that things remain undone. You must allow your body, mind, and spirit to recharge itself so you’re productive when you return to your tasks.

3. Find something you find relaxing. Everyone has their own activities that help them relax. Perhaps you feel pampered by a long, warm bubble bath. Or curl up on the couch and read a book. Find something that you enjoy, take deep breaths and relax.

4. Count to ten. If you find the stresses of life getting to you, catch yourself before lashing out or losing your cool. Instead, take a step back and count to ten slowly. This will allow you time to clear your mind and decide on the most effective and appropriate response.

5. Meditate. Meditation is a great way to calm your mind and regain focus when life seems out of control. With meditation, you learn to focus on deep breathing while you discover more about yourself.

* When you learn to focus on your breath, you’ll likely discover that your breathing is shallow during stressful situations. Learn to breathe deeply from your belly to feel a greater sense of peace in the midst of the storms of your life.

6. Exercise. Exercise is a perfect way to relieve stress and regain a clear perspective. A moderate amount of exercise each day is all you need for improved fitness. Find a type of exercise that you enjoy, and stick with it until it becomes a habit. Soon, you’ll hate missing a workout and have more energy throughout your stressful days.

7. Go for a nature walk. Find the time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Get your mind off of the many tasks you need to complete. Instead of thinking about the endless list of things you have to accomplish, become aware of what’s really important by really paying attention to the sights and sounds of your natural surroundings.

8. Take it one step at a time. Life often requires you to juggle many different situations at once. It’s overwhelming if you try to think of each one of those things at the same time.

* Focus on one task at a time and work at the task until it’s complete. Then move on to the next task. If you keep putting one foot in front of the other, everything on your to-do list will eventually get accomplished.

Remember that you’re not alone. If you need to talk to someone else about your busy life, reach out to positive people in your life who truly care about you. Sometimes, just talking may help you to clear your mind of everything.

Try these ideas and begin to experience the peace you deserve today!

My grandma taught me everything about Christmas. I was just a kid. I remember tearing across town on my bike to visit her on the day my big sister dropped the bomb: “There is no Santa Claus,” jeered my sister. “Even dummies know that!”

My grandma was not the gushy kind, never had been. I fled to her that day because I knew she would be straight with me. I knew Grandma always told the truth, and I knew that the truth always went down a whole lot easier when swallowed with one of her world-famous cinnamon buns.

Grandma was home, and the buns were still warm. Between bites, I told her everything. She was ready for me.

“No Santa Claus!” she snorted. “Ridiculous! Don’t believe it. That rumor has been going around for years, and it makes me mad, plain mad. Now, put on your coat, and let’s go.”

“Go? Go where, Grandma?” I asked. I hadn’t even finished my second cinnamon bun.

“Where” turned out to be Kerby’s General Store, the one store in town that had a little bit of just about everything. As we walked through its doors, Grandma handed me ten dollars. That was a bundle in those days.

“Take this money,” she said, “and buy something for someone who needs it. I’ll wait for you in the car.” Then she turned and walked out of Kerby’s.

I was only eight years old. I’d often gone shopping with my mother, but never had I shopped for anything all by myself. The store seemed big and crowded, full of people scrambling to finish their Christmas shopping. For a few moments I just stood there, confused, clutching that ten-dollar bill, wondering what to buy, and who on earth to buy it for. I thought of everybody I knew: my family, my friends, my neighbors, the kids at school, the people who went to my church.

I was just about thought out, when I suddenly thought of Bobbie Decker. He was a kid with bad breath and messy hair, and he sat right behind me in Mrs. Pollock’s grade-two class. Bobbie Decker didn’t have a coat. I knew that because he never went out for recess during the winter. His mother always wrote a note, telling the teacher that he had a cough; but all we kids knew that Bobbie Decker didn’t have a cough, and he didn’t have a coat.

I fingered the ten-dollar bill with growing excitement. I would buy Bobbie Decker a coat. I settled on a red corduroy one that had a hood to it. It looked real warm, and he would like that. I didn’t see a price tag, but ten dollars ought to buy anything. I put the coat and my ten-dollar bill on the counter and pushed them toward the lady behind it.

She looked at the coat, the money, and me. “Is this a Christmas present for someone?” she asked kindly. “Yes,” I replied shyly. “It’s … for Bobbie. He’s in my class, and he doesn’t have a coat.” The nice lady smiled at me. I didn’t get any change, but she put the coat in a bag and wished me a Merry Christmas.

That evening, Grandma helped me wrap the coat in Christmas paper and ribbons, and write, “To Bobbie, From Santa Claus” on it … Grandma said that Santa always insisted on secrecy.

Then she drove me over to Bobbie Decker’s house, explaining as we went that I was now and forever officially one of Santa’s helpers. Grandma parked down the street from Bobbie’s house, and she and I crept noiselessly and hid in the bushes by his front walk.

Suddenly, Grandma gave me a nudge. “All right, Santa Claus,” she whispered, “get going.”

I took a deep breath, dashed for his front door, threw the present down on his step, pounded his doorbell twice and flew back to the safety of the bushes and Grandma. Together we waited breathlessly in the darkness for the front door to open. Finally it did, and there stood Bobbie. He looked down, looked around, picked up his present, took it inside and closed the door.

Forty years haven’t dimmed the thrill of those moments spent shivering, beside my grandma, in Bobbie Decker’s bushes. That night, I realized that those awful rumors about Santa Claus were just what Grandma said they were: Ridiculous!

Santa was alive and well … AND WE WERE ON HIS TEAM!

Author Unknown