With only 10 weeks left of our challenge I wanted to talk about what I will call 'going home' because I feel every journey usually ends back home and so will this one. But like any journey you may go home but you are not the same person you were before you left.
The Challenge:
-First think about what 'going home' may mean to you. Do you ponder big questions like "Who am I?" or re-connect with your core values? Do you think about your actual home and how you want to present yourself in your life? Do you reflect back on your childhood and all you have seen and done?
-Consider 'triggers' that may set you back when you return home. While you are focused on a goal it can be easier than maintenance. Just like diets the hardest part is after you've hit your goal. Make a plan for your maintenance or come up with a new goal.
-Look back and congratulate yourself on your progress. Even your failures have taught you and can make you a better person.
What I am working on:
It's interesting that about the time the Yen Path 52 Week Challenge ends is when I will be promoting the book, Yen Path: Taking Steps Towards What You Want in Life. I did the blog because I want Yen Path to take many forms. After this blog and the book there will probably be more books and other products. Home in this context is Yen Path; which is simply following your yearnings and desires. Desires change as do you (and I) but the essence remains.
We are all seekers; don't be afraid to explore and know you can come home anytime.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Week 41 - Security
A big reason that people are uncomfortable with change (even positive change) is because it is unknown and therefore makes us feel insecure. If there is something you are always wishing for (having more friends, a relationship, a better job, to be more physically fit...) and it has not manifested in your life then it is very likely you have some fear or uncertainty about the change, and that is what we will examine this week. Obviously it could be other things that are holding you back (real lack of interest, not understanding your needs, beliefs and so on...)
This insecurity can prevent you from manifesting your goal but even if something amazing did present itself it is likely that you will screw it up because you have not taken time to create a good foundation.
Abraham Maslow published "A Theory of Human Motivation" in 1943 and his theory states that basic needs must be satisfied before we can progress to our highest achievements. Therefore if you do not feel safe (secure) then it will be hard to move forward. In this week’s challenge ask yourself the following questions.
The Challenge:
1) Who would I have to be to live my perfect life? Most coaches will ask you this question at some point because it's important for you to understand who you are before you step into change. Like building a home you need a good foundation and while this may take more time you will build confidence along the way. Take baby steps and build on your successes. You can also refer back to past blog posts or hire a life coach. For example, if you feel unhealthy you may realize you would have to be a person that values good health and therefore you may start to eat healthier and enjoy some more movement in your day. From here your next step may be finding new friends or a better job.
2) What do I want most as an outcome from my success? Why do you want new friends or a new job? If it's just because you are lonely or want more money first dig deeper because you have not created enough clarity. Otherwise you may find you have new friends or a new job and still aren't happy.
3) How can you learn from past failures? Failures usually make us feel insecure but in fact these are our teachers. Look back and consider how to move forward more efficiently. Most importantly look for trends with past failures. Maybe there is some self-sabotage going on. For example; if you feel like you don't get the respect you deserve in a relationship or at work could it be that you are presenting yourself in a way to attract that?
What I'm working on:
Now that the book is done and I am moving into the promotion phase I realize a big shift is coming in my life. One where most of my work required me to be in my office to now having to be out in front of people doing talks, presentations, book signings, etc. Before stepping out I must prepare. What do I want to say and do? Personally I don't want to do a lot of book signings at book stores so I am coming up with other creative opportunities.
Have a great week and remember to share this blog with your friends, family and co-workers.
This insecurity can prevent you from manifesting your goal but even if something amazing did present itself it is likely that you will screw it up because you have not taken time to create a good foundation.
Abraham Maslow published "A Theory of Human Motivation" in 1943 and his theory states that basic needs must be satisfied before we can progress to our highest achievements. Therefore if you do not feel safe (secure) then it will be hard to move forward. In this week’s challenge ask yourself the following questions.
The Challenge:
1) Who would I have to be to live my perfect life? Most coaches will ask you this question at some point because it's important for you to understand who you are before you step into change. Like building a home you need a good foundation and while this may take more time you will build confidence along the way. Take baby steps and build on your successes. You can also refer back to past blog posts or hire a life coach. For example, if you feel unhealthy you may realize you would have to be a person that values good health and therefore you may start to eat healthier and enjoy some more movement in your day. From here your next step may be finding new friends or a better job.
2) What do I want most as an outcome from my success? Why do you want new friends or a new job? If it's just because you are lonely or want more money first dig deeper because you have not created enough clarity. Otherwise you may find you have new friends or a new job and still aren't happy.
3) How can you learn from past failures? Failures usually make us feel insecure but in fact these are our teachers. Look back and consider how to move forward more efficiently. Most importantly look for trends with past failures. Maybe there is some self-sabotage going on. For example; if you feel like you don't get the respect you deserve in a relationship or at work could it be that you are presenting yourself in a way to attract that?
What I'm working on:
Now that the book is done and I am moving into the promotion phase I realize a big shift is coming in my life. One where most of my work required me to be in my office to now having to be out in front of people doing talks, presentations, book signings, etc. Before stepping out I must prepare. What do I want to say and do? Personally I don't want to do a lot of book signings at book stores so I am coming up with other creative opportunities.
Have a great week and remember to share this blog with your friends, family and co-workers.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Week 40 - Wisdom
Note: This weeks challenge is not about yoga and mudras but I want to share this with you first. If you prefer you can skip right to the challenge.
In yoga there are mudras, or hand gestures, that help to manifest an intention. When you sit quietly and use the hand gesture you do not need to 'think' about the intention. Instead simply sit quietly and trust that the quality (wisdom in this case) will expand. The mudra you would use for wisdom is called Jnana Mudra. Instead of re-inventing the wheel and describing it myself I will provide this wonderful link that you can go to if you'd like. http://derekosborn.accountsupport.com/thelibrary/id62.html
The Challenge:
In case you did not read the link let me first explain that it talks about ego as well. I believe the ego is opposite of wisdom. The ego considers self and wisdom is selfless. It's not that the ego is bad; it is a way of distinguishing self from other things. However when we see the world around us as "me" and "them" it can create problems. From here envy, judgement, criticism, hatred, prejudice, and cynicism exist.
This week I want you to focus on your habitual thought patterns. Find those that are ego based. For example you may realize when you hear good news for someone else you feel envious or judgemental. You may want to down-play someones success or say something like "they are just lucky".
After you have created some awareness around the ego-based thought(s) you have a choice that you did not have earlier. From here you can choose to be the same or you can choose to change. Remember it takes approximately 21 days to change a habit so this part of the challenge will take more than one week.
If you work on removing the habitual tendencies to feed the ego you will notice somethng wonderful. You will start to see the world as a better place. You will begin to notice the events that occur every day that are hopeful and heroic. You will become part of an amazing group of people that choose peace, love and happiness. In doing so you will be a creator of goodness and will profoundly change the world around you in addition to your own.
For those of you that accept this challenge; you are my heros. Thank you!
What I am working on:
In all honesty this challenge will take even more than 21 days; it's an ongoing commitment and some days I feel selfish. But my awareness allows me to regroup and try again and again.
In yoga there are mudras, or hand gestures, that help to manifest an intention. When you sit quietly and use the hand gesture you do not need to 'think' about the intention. Instead simply sit quietly and trust that the quality (wisdom in this case) will expand. The mudra you would use for wisdom is called Jnana Mudra. Instead of re-inventing the wheel and describing it myself I will provide this wonderful link that you can go to if you'd like. http://derekosborn.accountsupport.com/thelibrary/id62.html
The Challenge:
In case you did not read the link let me first explain that it talks about ego as well. I believe the ego is opposite of wisdom. The ego considers self and wisdom is selfless. It's not that the ego is bad; it is a way of distinguishing self from other things. However when we see the world around us as "me" and "them" it can create problems. From here envy, judgement, criticism, hatred, prejudice, and cynicism exist.
This week I want you to focus on your habitual thought patterns. Find those that are ego based. For example you may realize when you hear good news for someone else you feel envious or judgemental. You may want to down-play someones success or say something like "they are just lucky".
After you have created some awareness around the ego-based thought(s) you have a choice that you did not have earlier. From here you can choose to be the same or you can choose to change. Remember it takes approximately 21 days to change a habit so this part of the challenge will take more than one week.
If you work on removing the habitual tendencies to feed the ego you will notice somethng wonderful. You will start to see the world as a better place. You will begin to notice the events that occur every day that are hopeful and heroic. You will become part of an amazing group of people that choose peace, love and happiness. In doing so you will be a creator of goodness and will profoundly change the world around you in addition to your own.
For those of you that accept this challenge; you are my heros. Thank you!
What I am working on:
In all honesty this challenge will take even more than 21 days; it's an ongoing commitment and some days I feel selfish. But my awareness allows me to regroup and try again and again.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Week 39 - Almost there!
Can you believe we are already 3/4ths of the way through the challenge? Time certainly does go quickly and I hope that helps you to understand the importance of embracing the moment at hand. Take this moment to:
-Get remotivated
-Reevaluate
-Tell a friend so they can start the challenge - it's not too late!
-Pat yourself on the back if you have been sticking with the challenges
-Share your stories. It does help to inspire others.
If you are even reading this challenge I aplaude you. Any momentum towards your dreams is a good thing.
That's it for this week!
-Get remotivated
-Reevaluate
-Tell a friend so they can start the challenge - it's not too late!
-Pat yourself on the back if you have been sticking with the challenges
-Share your stories. It does help to inspire others.
If you are even reading this challenge I aplaude you. Any momentum towards your dreams is a good thing.
That's it for this week!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Week 38 - Intuition
One definition for intuition is "understanding without apparent effort" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intuition. You've experienced intuition when you simply 'have a feeling'. Many times we ignore these feelings; maybe because it doesn't seem logical or maybe because it doesn't seem polite. I saw a safety expert once on television showing how he could convince any child or woman into his car. Later when the individuals were asked many replied that they did not want to be rude (others believed the stranger was being helpful or kind). My point is this -- We all need to practice listening to what our intuition is telling us. Intuition is tied to instinct and yes us humans have it too. Don't ignore what took millennium to develop. This will help you to avoid real life predators but also to learn how to navigate through the multitude of choices that will come your way.
The Challenge:
Choices are a blessing and a curse. They are a blessing because when you do not have options you are limited. They are a curse because it can be a challenge deciding which path to follow. It can be all too easy to drift from choice to choice or to not be able to decide and do nothing. Today's challenge will allow you to reflect on your goal(s) and where you are with them using the mind and then intuition.
1) Think about where you are at with your goal(s) from a practical standpoint.
2) Write down what you have accomplished; and what you have not.
3) Next take a moment to close your eyes and check in to what your intuition is telling you about how you should proceed. Your logical mind may want you to continue to do the same things, especially if you have been getting good results. However sometimes a break is needed or a new approach all together.
4) Write down any new ideas that may have come to you, even if they contradict items on the previous list.
5) Consciously determine your course of action based on the items from your lists. Go with what feels right. This challenge isn't about having to make a change; but understanding that you can.
What I'm working on:
First I want to share a story with you. A few years back while living in Portland Oregon I was walking to an early morning yoga class downtown. A man started to approach and was acting very friendly. This never happened to me before but my intuition told me something was very wrong and I started running away. Thankfully too because as I started running I noticed there were his friends on each corner of the intersection and they all began running towards me. Luckily the building I was entering was right across the street and I got inside safely. Ignoring my intuition could have cost me precious moments.
The steps I listed above for you to use is something I do frequently. I tend to be task oriented and find this helps to see the forest through the trees. Also I can be easily taken off track if I think someone else is in need. Many times this is fine but on occasion it is helpful for me to regroup this way so I can get back to the bigger picture.
That's it for now. Have a wonderful week!
The Challenge:
Choices are a blessing and a curse. They are a blessing because when you do not have options you are limited. They are a curse because it can be a challenge deciding which path to follow. It can be all too easy to drift from choice to choice or to not be able to decide and do nothing. Today's challenge will allow you to reflect on your goal(s) and where you are with them using the mind and then intuition.
1) Think about where you are at with your goal(s) from a practical standpoint.
2) Write down what you have accomplished; and what you have not.
3) Next take a moment to close your eyes and check in to what your intuition is telling you about how you should proceed. Your logical mind may want you to continue to do the same things, especially if you have been getting good results. However sometimes a break is needed or a new approach all together.
4) Write down any new ideas that may have come to you, even if they contradict items on the previous list.
5) Consciously determine your course of action based on the items from your lists. Go with what feels right. This challenge isn't about having to make a change; but understanding that you can.
What I'm working on:
First I want to share a story with you. A few years back while living in Portland Oregon I was walking to an early morning yoga class downtown. A man started to approach and was acting very friendly. This never happened to me before but my intuition told me something was very wrong and I started running away. Thankfully too because as I started running I noticed there were his friends on each corner of the intersection and they all began running towards me. Luckily the building I was entering was right across the street and I got inside safely. Ignoring my intuition could have cost me precious moments.
The steps I listed above for you to use is something I do frequently. I tend to be task oriented and find this helps to see the forest through the trees. Also I can be easily taken off track if I think someone else is in need. Many times this is fine but on occasion it is helpful for me to regroup this way so I can get back to the bigger picture.
That's it for now. Have a wonderful week!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Week 37 - Ritual
I selected this topic because this past week was my 22nd wedding anniversary which got me to thinking about the importance of rituals in our lives.
Typically when we think of a ritual we think of a ceremony like a wedding. Before the ceremony there are two single individuals but afterwards there are many real changes that occur in the couples lives. Rituals are extremely important in creating an opportunity to change who we are. Afterwards we are changed.
Another example would be coming-of-age rituals that occur in many ways throughout the different cultures in our world. In this example, after the ritual the individual is no longer considered a child. Their responsibilities change from that day forward.
While we continue to grow and change over time, these rituals create a real marker. This type of distinction creates real transition. Without it we would not fully embrace the new identity.
The Challenge:
1) Think about your goal and create a list of the behaviors that align with success. For example if you want to be healthy maybe determine what your diet will consist of and your exercise schedule. If your goal is to save money then open a savings account and commit to making a deposit after each pay day. If you want positive changes in a relationship then think about what you can do to make those improvements (vs. what your partner should be doing) -- Maybe they will even do this with you if you make it fun and non-threatening. If you want someone new in your life commit to attending functions that will help you to meet new people.
2) Decide when you want to fully embrace these behaviors -- Actually set a date. Make it soon! Just allow enough time to prepare.
3) On that date have a ceremony to celebrate your the new you. At the very least dress up, journal, light a candle, buy something to remind you of the event like a new ring or have a party. Share your transition with a loved one. Declare who you are! Believe you have transformed.
4) From this point forward live in alignment with the new you.
What I'm working on:
With all the wonderful changes in my life over the last year or so I also realized that meant I had to do some letting go. Therefore my emotions have been like a roller coaster. I allowed for the 'grieving' and fear to pass and then began to feel a lifting of my spirit. I celebrated by sharing my turning point with those I love.
Typically when we think of a ritual we think of a ceremony like a wedding. Before the ceremony there are two single individuals but afterwards there are many real changes that occur in the couples lives. Rituals are extremely important in creating an opportunity to change who we are. Afterwards we are changed.
Another example would be coming-of-age rituals that occur in many ways throughout the different cultures in our world. In this example, after the ritual the individual is no longer considered a child. Their responsibilities change from that day forward.
While we continue to grow and change over time, these rituals create a real marker. This type of distinction creates real transition. Without it we would not fully embrace the new identity.
The Challenge:
1) Think about your goal and create a list of the behaviors that align with success. For example if you want to be healthy maybe determine what your diet will consist of and your exercise schedule. If your goal is to save money then open a savings account and commit to making a deposit after each pay day. If you want positive changes in a relationship then think about what you can do to make those improvements (vs. what your partner should be doing) -- Maybe they will even do this with you if you make it fun and non-threatening. If you want someone new in your life commit to attending functions that will help you to meet new people.
2) Decide when you want to fully embrace these behaviors -- Actually set a date. Make it soon! Just allow enough time to prepare.
3) On that date have a ceremony to celebrate your the new you. At the very least dress up, journal, light a candle, buy something to remind you of the event like a new ring or have a party. Share your transition with a loved one. Declare who you are! Believe you have transformed.
4) From this point forward live in alignment with the new you.
What I'm working on:
With all the wonderful changes in my life over the last year or so I also realized that meant I had to do some letting go. Therefore my emotions have been like a roller coaster. I allowed for the 'grieving' and fear to pass and then began to feel a lifting of my spirit. I celebrated by sharing my turning point with those I love.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Week 36 - Introspection
It can be easy to get caught up in the external stimulus of every day life. Especially with cell phones that can keep us up-to-date on email, test messages, news, events, etc. Like Pavlov's dogs we've become conditioned to respond immediately when we hear a sound. Technology has allowed us to constantly stay connected; but with what? Being more connected to the outside world can leave you feeling over worked, tired, overwhelmed, anxious...
The Challenge:
1) Take at least a half an hour each day (maybe longer) to turn off your cell phone. Obviously don't do this if you work at a hospital and are on call but you get the idea. Allow yourself some time to 'unplug' and check-in.
2) Sit quietly with no television, radio, computer... Or if you would prefer go for a walk. If you want to be in the company of a person or pet that is fine but if you do talk make sure the conversation allows for introspection.
3) Ask yourself (or each other if you have a buddy you want to do this with) the following question: How do I feel? At first your mind may start with the negative feelings; like a headache or earlier disagreement with someone. Acknowledge those feelings briefly and then move on to what feels right. If for example you do have a headache then you may want to focus on how you can feel better and/or notice how many other parts of the body are feeling just fine. As I've said before, these are your quiet supporters so acknowledge them and give thanks. If you notice you have a negative thought consider how you can shift that to a positive thought. For example, is there a lesson you have learned or some advantage? If not find another way to conjure up a positive thought and stay with that for a while.
What I am working on:
My husband and I learned from our trainer that our puppy's failures are ours. If Nitro does have an accident in the house Jody and I have learned to immediately focus on where we failed. This helps us to create success for all of us. While it may seem we are focusing on the negative we are actually being introspective as we examine what really happened and how to improve.
This can be more challenging when examining 'bigger failures' however these lead to our biggest successes. For example I am reminded yet again that my passion can get me into trouble. I can be "too intense" and seem pushy with my agenda. And my passion to help others can lead me to doing for them instead of letting them do for themselves. In particular I am referring to a past business partner and I've really had to stop to consider how I can improve.
That's it for now. Turn off your cell phone and computer now. :)
The Challenge:
1) Take at least a half an hour each day (maybe longer) to turn off your cell phone. Obviously don't do this if you work at a hospital and are on call but you get the idea. Allow yourself some time to 'unplug' and check-in.
2) Sit quietly with no television, radio, computer... Or if you would prefer go for a walk. If you want to be in the company of a person or pet that is fine but if you do talk make sure the conversation allows for introspection.
3) Ask yourself (or each other if you have a buddy you want to do this with) the following question: How do I feel? At first your mind may start with the negative feelings; like a headache or earlier disagreement with someone. Acknowledge those feelings briefly and then move on to what feels right. If for example you do have a headache then you may want to focus on how you can feel better and/or notice how many other parts of the body are feeling just fine. As I've said before, these are your quiet supporters so acknowledge them and give thanks. If you notice you have a negative thought consider how you can shift that to a positive thought. For example, is there a lesson you have learned or some advantage? If not find another way to conjure up a positive thought and stay with that for a while.
What I am working on:
My husband and I learned from our trainer that our puppy's failures are ours. If Nitro does have an accident in the house Jody and I have learned to immediately focus on where we failed. This helps us to create success for all of us. While it may seem we are focusing on the negative we are actually being introspective as we examine what really happened and how to improve.
This can be more challenging when examining 'bigger failures' however these lead to our biggest successes. For example I am reminded yet again that my passion can get me into trouble. I can be "too intense" and seem pushy with my agenda. And my passion to help others can lead me to doing for them instead of letting them do for themselves. In particular I am referring to a past business partner and I've really had to stop to consider how I can improve.
That's it for now. Turn off your cell phone and computer now. :)
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