How interesting that this week I planned on talking about this topic and last week I found out that the parent company of Health Beat Radio was pulling the plug. My intention was to talk about planning a retreat but this just goes to show they can come about unplanned as well.
The Challenge:
Do you feel frazzled, tired or unhappy about a certain aspect of your life? If so list the items that are causing these feelings and consider how you can create a break from them. For example; if you have children I know you love them but they can be a lot of work. Can you plan a little 'you' time? Maybe just a hot bath or an outing with some friends? Or maybe a weekend away with your partner? If works got you down or someone is demanding in your life can you think of a few ways to set some loving boundaries.
What I'm working on:
Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want In Life (Price World Publishing) will be released on 6/1/11. As I work with the publisher, editor, publicist I realize these will be the inward tasks. Soon the book will be in the pubic and so will I. This summer I will do a lot of traveling to promote the book and enjoy time with family and friends. Now I need to enjoy my retreat and prepare for summer.
I also spent time reflecting on some past events in my life and realize that my passion means sometimes people take advantage of me. I am always willing to jump in and accomplish tasks that need to be done. It can mean I take on more and more responsibilities and then people just assume I always will. This happens in many aspects of my life -- I see the trend and am ready to set loving boundaries going forward. It becomes tiresome to always have to be the one to make the phone calls, encourage family relationships, have the gatherings, write the meeting minutes, do the planning/press releases...keep the team encouraged... I know I am my own worst enemy and I created this. I want people to be happy and I want things to succeed. But I cannot do it alone...hence retreat! Some people may perceive that "something is wrong". Actually that is not true at all. I have had a new awareness I am thankful for and believe I can encourage growth for others without always doing the work myself. Hopefully my insights for the week have helped you as well. I will always be passionate (I hope) so no worries. Just retreating for a bit. :)
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Monday, February 7, 2011
Week 34 - Beauty
It can be easy to focus on beauty in the springtime when flowers are blooming and the days are long. There is the promise of hope when everything feels fresh and new. However you can almost always find beauty and when you do it can lift your spirits. I know winter has been challenging with all the snow and ice so lets lift those spirits!
The Challenge:
It can be easy to focus on struggle because it has a way of grabbing your attention. In my yoga classes when my students are in a challenging pose I first make sure everyone is in a safe posture and then ask them to shift their focus to an area of the body that feels completely at ease. The shift in focus can help you notice what's pleasant.
Ask yourself "What do I want to attract?" If you focus on the negative, the struggle, the ugly, the work... then that is what you are attracting. Today; and all week I want you to seek out beauty. For example; instead of looking at the tons of snow outside maybe you will find a single beautiful snow flake on the window. Or maybe instead of focusing on the abundance of darkness you can celebrate the light when it arrives. If you are unable to do things you love take time to not only remember past experiences but makes some plans for the future.
What I'm working on:
Since I now live in FL I have been fortunate to enjoy mild weather but I have been hibernating in a way because of my work load. Yes I get out to exercise or go to a yoga class in the mornings but that has even been feeling like a 'to-do'. With my book release date moving up two months and other opportunities and challenges that I am dealing with I have almost no free time. I don't mind because what is keeping me busy are my goals and I am thrilled they are manifesting.
What I have been acutely aware of recently is the beauty I see in the eyes of others. It really makes me stop as for a brief moment I notice their inner beauty. Some eyes sparkle and when they do I quietly rejoice in their moment of peace, happiness, or success. And whenever possible I will acknowledge someone for a beautiful quality that I see in them. When I do I notice their spirits lift and that is also beautiful.
Update on Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want in Life
The new release date is June 1, 2011 and you can pre-order your copy now on Amazon. Just search on my name or the book title to find it.
The Challenge:
It can be easy to focus on struggle because it has a way of grabbing your attention. In my yoga classes when my students are in a challenging pose I first make sure everyone is in a safe posture and then ask them to shift their focus to an area of the body that feels completely at ease. The shift in focus can help you notice what's pleasant.
Ask yourself "What do I want to attract?" If you focus on the negative, the struggle, the ugly, the work... then that is what you are attracting. Today; and all week I want you to seek out beauty. For example; instead of looking at the tons of snow outside maybe you will find a single beautiful snow flake on the window. Or maybe instead of focusing on the abundance of darkness you can celebrate the light when it arrives. If you are unable to do things you love take time to not only remember past experiences but makes some plans for the future.
What I'm working on:
Since I now live in FL I have been fortunate to enjoy mild weather but I have been hibernating in a way because of my work load. Yes I get out to exercise or go to a yoga class in the mornings but that has even been feeling like a 'to-do'. With my book release date moving up two months and other opportunities and challenges that I am dealing with I have almost no free time. I don't mind because what is keeping me busy are my goals and I am thrilled they are manifesting.
What I have been acutely aware of recently is the beauty I see in the eyes of others. It really makes me stop as for a brief moment I notice their inner beauty. Some eyes sparkle and when they do I quietly rejoice in their moment of peace, happiness, or success. And whenever possible I will acknowledge someone for a beautiful quality that I see in them. When I do I notice their spirits lift and that is also beautiful.
Update on Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want in Life
The new release date is June 1, 2011 and you can pre-order your copy now on Amazon. Just search on my name or the book title to find it.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Week 33 - Check in
This week I am giving you a little break from a new challenge and instead want you to simply check in. Ask yourself:
-How have I been doing with my goals?
-How do I feel about myself and my situations?
-Is there a new direction I should be considering?
That's it. For those of you that have been sticking with this I want to personally acknowledge your effort. There is something special about you because it can be easy to quit. For those of you that are seriously thinking about getting started I applaud you as well. Think of me as your cheerleader as well as your coach. You have to play the game but I can guide and support you along the way. Isn't it nice to know you aren't doing it alone?
Have a great week!
-How have I been doing with my goals?
-How do I feel about myself and my situations?
-Is there a new direction I should be considering?
That's it. For those of you that have been sticking with this I want to personally acknowledge your effort. There is something special about you because it can be easy to quit. For those of you that are seriously thinking about getting started I applaud you as well. Think of me as your cheerleader as well as your coach. You have to play the game but I can guide and support you along the way. Isn't it nice to know you aren't doing it alone?
Have a great week!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Week 32 - Meditation
Don't worry -- if you aren't used to this I'll make it easy!
The Challenge: Be mindful. That is a great place to start. You may notice you focus on what you are doing or the absence of "doing". In other words; meditation practices vary. In the 8 limbs of yoga one limb is concentation; because focusing on one thing can be easier than focusing on nothing. Meditation is also one of the 8 limbs. Here you begin to notice the gaps between the thoughts. Explore and find peace. Hopefully you will find this practice relaxing and healing.
What I am working on:
Again today I realized how easy it is for me to be in the future. I am a planner and that can make it hard to be present sometimes. I find it is easiest on my walks to be present. I spend time every day (even if just for a few moments) focusing on only my breath.
The Challenge: Be mindful. That is a great place to start. You may notice you focus on what you are doing or the absence of "doing". In other words; meditation practices vary. In the 8 limbs of yoga one limb is concentation; because focusing on one thing can be easier than focusing on nothing. Meditation is also one of the 8 limbs. Here you begin to notice the gaps between the thoughts. Explore and find peace. Hopefully you will find this practice relaxing and healing.
What I am working on:
Again today I realized how easy it is for me to be in the future. I am a planner and that can make it hard to be present sometimes. I find it is easiest on my walks to be present. I spend time every day (even if just for a few moments) focusing on only my breath.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Week 31 - Contemplation
Welcome to another week. Are you living up to the goals you have set for yourself?
The Challenge:
Ask yourself a big question (use the question above or if you have a more important one in mind use that).
Next instead of "thinking" about it; contemplate the meaning. What's the difference? You do not allow judgements, criticism, pride; all ego to get involved. Don't be negative and don't move into planning or action mode. Instead you "thoughtfully" consider the question. Avoid seeking an answer. Maybe just stay with the question. This will allow you to look at your question with a peaceful heart and open mind. You may find this will move you forward in a new way. We all know it's new thoughts and actions that will get you different results and therefore this is what you need to do if you want better results. Only repeat thoughts and actions that bring about positive outcomes.
Have a great week!
The Challenge:
Ask yourself a big question (use the question above or if you have a more important one in mind use that).
Next instead of "thinking" about it; contemplate the meaning. What's the difference? You do not allow judgements, criticism, pride; all ego to get involved. Don't be negative and don't move into planning or action mode. Instead you "thoughtfully" consider the question. Avoid seeking an answer. Maybe just stay with the question. This will allow you to look at your question with a peaceful heart and open mind. You may find this will move you forward in a new way. We all know it's new thoughts and actions that will get you different results and therefore this is what you need to do if you want better results. Only repeat thoughts and actions that bring about positive outcomes.
Have a great week!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Week 30 - Intention
For those of you that know me you probably know I hate the term "New Years Resolution". Instead I prefer to have people think of their intention. To me it has more of a forward focus and isn't as over-used which can then lead to different; hopefully better outcomes.
The Challenge:
Look at the what you came up with from last week and think about what added clarity you can create as you move from resolution to intention. Does it allow for any meaningful change for you? If it makes no difference then you have nothing else to do this week but don't rush way just yet. Take a few minutes to close your eyes and think about what it is you want. What determined action can you move forward with this week?
The biggest problem (I think) with New Years resolutions is that we forget about them. Don't do that! Come up with one new idea and action item this week and continue to repeat those actions that have been working for you. If it's worth while then stick with it!
What I'm working on:
For each of my goals from Week 1 I have one focus. For my health and wellness goal I have already created an exercise routine in my new town so now I will be working on some some improvements with my diet (that slacked off over the holidays). Both Health Beat Radio and Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want in Life have lots going on and will require much of my time. I am creating some amazing new opportunities here in Sarasota as a Wellness Coach. Most importantly I am looking forward to my friend Teresa's visit and then my mom and aunt will be coming down; after that Jody's Dad will be visiting and more family and friends are planning their trips. Jody and I are moving closer towards the completion of our move goal; and we enjoy quality time together when he visits every other weekend.
The Challenge:
Look at the what you came up with from last week and think about what added clarity you can create as you move from resolution to intention. Does it allow for any meaningful change for you? If it makes no difference then you have nothing else to do this week but don't rush way just yet. Take a few minutes to close your eyes and think about what it is you want. What determined action can you move forward with this week?
The biggest problem (I think) with New Years resolutions is that we forget about them. Don't do that! Come up with one new idea and action item this week and continue to repeat those actions that have been working for you. If it's worth while then stick with it!
What I'm working on:
For each of my goals from Week 1 I have one focus. For my health and wellness goal I have already created an exercise routine in my new town so now I will be working on some some improvements with my diet (that slacked off over the holidays). Both Health Beat Radio and Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want in Life have lots going on and will require much of my time. I am creating some amazing new opportunities here in Sarasota as a Wellness Coach. Most importantly I am looking forward to my friend Teresa's visit and then my mom and aunt will be coming down; after that Jody's Dad will be visiting and more family and friends are planning their trips. Jody and I are moving closer towards the completion of our move goal; and we enjoy quality time together when he visits every other weekend.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Week 29 - Resolution
The American Heritage Dictionary defines resolution as "The state or quality of being resolute; firm determination. A resolving to do something. A course of action determined or decided on". To me the key words here 'firm determination' and 'course of action'.
The Challenge:
Create a New Years Resolution that you can be sure you will be successful at achieving. Here are some suggestions:
1) Is your New Years Resolution too grand? Make sure you pick something reasonable. If it is a big goal that will take over 3 months to achieve then create short term goals so you can see progress and stay on track.
2) Is your New Years Resolution too vague? You must be specific enough to move you to action. Saying you want to lose weight, make more money, or find your true love isn't enough. Be specific.
3) Is your New Years Resolution negative? Losing weight is a prefect example of a negative goal; so is paying off debt (yes do that but focus on saving); and lastly don't have a goal for someone else (e.g., get my husband/kids/coworkers to...). First of all the mind cannot not think of something you suggestion so thinking of weight attracts weight. Secondly don't just focus on what you will not do and this is why I believe diets do not work. Deprivation is not sustainable. Instead think of what you will do (e.g., have an apple for afternoon snack vs pastry and high calorie coffee beverage, save money, meet new people).
4) Could there be reasons for self-sabotage? Many times people fail at goals because subconsciously they are afraid of who they will have to be if they succeed. If you have failed at achieving your goal before you may want to consider this question. For example, subconsciously you could be uncomfortable with the attention (positive or negative)that may come about from your change. Even the best intentioned friends and family may be enablers. This is a good topic to talk about with a life coach because if it is subconscious you may not even realize it.
5) Do you have the resources (time, money, information, etc) to accomplish your goal? If not your first goal may be making sure you have these things.
These are just some ideas. If you want some help give me a call and we can schedule some coaching sessions. It will really pay off.
What I'm working on:
My goals that I started working on in June at the beginning of the Yen Path Challenge were big goals and I have been making good progress. I continue to keep short term goals and action items to move me forward. I surround myself with like minded people whenever possible and continue to work with my mastermind partner (who happens to be a coach), personal trainer, acupuncturist and massage therapist. I continue to focus on keeping myself grounded which for me means plenty of quality time at home with my pets and with my loved ones. I also have a routine that includes my yoga, exercise, reading, meditation and spiritual practices on a regular basis.
My wish for you is that you will succeed at your New Years Resolutions. All the best.
The Challenge:
Create a New Years Resolution that you can be sure you will be successful at achieving. Here are some suggestions:
1) Is your New Years Resolution too grand? Make sure you pick something reasonable. If it is a big goal that will take over 3 months to achieve then create short term goals so you can see progress and stay on track.
2) Is your New Years Resolution too vague? You must be specific enough to move you to action. Saying you want to lose weight, make more money, or find your true love isn't enough. Be specific.
3) Is your New Years Resolution negative? Losing weight is a prefect example of a negative goal; so is paying off debt (yes do that but focus on saving); and lastly don't have a goal for someone else (e.g., get my husband/kids/coworkers to...). First of all the mind cannot not think of something you suggestion so thinking of weight attracts weight. Secondly don't just focus on what you will not do and this is why I believe diets do not work. Deprivation is not sustainable. Instead think of what you will do (e.g., have an apple for afternoon snack vs pastry and high calorie coffee beverage, save money, meet new people).
4) Could there be reasons for self-sabotage? Many times people fail at goals because subconsciously they are afraid of who they will have to be if they succeed. If you have failed at achieving your goal before you may want to consider this question. For example, subconsciously you could be uncomfortable with the attention (positive or negative)that may come about from your change. Even the best intentioned friends and family may be enablers. This is a good topic to talk about with a life coach because if it is subconscious you may not even realize it.
5) Do you have the resources (time, money, information, etc) to accomplish your goal? If not your first goal may be making sure you have these things.
These are just some ideas. If you want some help give me a call and we can schedule some coaching sessions. It will really pay off.
What I'm working on:
My goals that I started working on in June at the beginning of the Yen Path Challenge were big goals and I have been making good progress. I continue to keep short term goals and action items to move me forward. I surround myself with like minded people whenever possible and continue to work with my mastermind partner (who happens to be a coach), personal trainer, acupuncturist and massage therapist. I continue to focus on keeping myself grounded which for me means plenty of quality time at home with my pets and with my loved ones. I also have a routine that includes my yoga, exercise, reading, meditation and spiritual practices on a regular basis.
My wish for you is that you will succeed at your New Years Resolutions. All the best.
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