7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

Change is inevitable. Look at your hobbies, friends, clothes, taste in music, TV shows, family, and career. Many of those things have changed. The people around you have changed. The political climate has changed. There’s change everywhere. 7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

Change can bring fear, doubt, and uncertainty. However, it’s not helpful to view change negatively. In order to survive, it’s necessary to adapt to change.

There are new experiences and understandings to be gained as a result of the changes in your life. If you never changed, you’d still be playing in the sandbox at the playground and eating dirt. 7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

If you’re finding it difficult to embrace changes in your life, using these strategies can help:

1. Understand that life is always changing. Life is change. Life is always evolving. It’s the very nature of life. Think about how much you’ve changed since you were an infant.

>. Your body and view of the world have changed considerably over the years. Change is a natural part of life. 7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

2. See change as a positive thing. Imagine how bored you would be if nothing ever changed.

>. Change expands your comfort zone.

>. Change provides opportunities.

>. Change provides new experiences.

>. Dealing with change teaches you about yourself.

3. See the opportunities that this change provides. There are positive aspects to the changes you’re currently facing in your life. You just have to look for them.

>. For example, losing a job provides many opportunities. You can change careers. Find a better company. Find a better paying job. Get away from that annoying coworker. Move someplace new. You’ll have more free time for a while to spend on your family and hobbies. 7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

>. A divorce can be traumatic, but it also brings new opportunities. You can find a more suitable partner. You can move to a new house. You have more control over your free time. You can put a challenging relationship behind you.

4. Imagine a positive outcome. It’s easier to deal with change if you can visualize a positive outcome. See a compelling picture in your mind. When you feel stressed, go back to that picture. A positive expectation for the future can be motivating.

5. Pay attention to what you can control. Any situation that involves change has elements that can be controlled and others that cannot be controlled. You can control your attitude, decisions, actions, and usually several other things. There are also elements beyond your control. 7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

>. It’s important to spend your time and energy on the things you can control.

>. Focusing on the things you can’t control can leave you feeling depressed and powerless.

6. Change makes you stronger. The organisms that have survived the most successfully are those that are best able to adapt. Organisms that can’t adapt become extinct. Humans are excellent at adapting. They just don’t like to do it! Every change you overcome makes you a stronger person.

7. What other options do you have besides making the best of it? Chances are, they will all involve some type of change too. Many times, you can choose which change you want, and you can take action to make it happen. 7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

Most people avoid or fight change when it occurs, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Change can bring amazing opportunities!

Change is all around you. Change brings you new ideas, people, and experiences. Life is too short to live the same day over and over. Be grateful for the changes happening in your life. You might be on the path to something new and wonderful.

7 Tips to Embrace and Accept Change

Top 10 Ways to Learn More About Yourself

You spend every minute with yourself, but you don’t know yourself as well as you think. You love to deceive yourself, whether you realize it or not. As they say, “You can’t handle the truth.”

Unfortunately, if you don’t know yourself, it’s hard to make progress. It’s like driving a car that doesn’t run well, but you refuse to look under the hood. There are issues under your hood that are in your way! Top 10 Ways to Learn More About Yourself

Try these techniques to get to know yourself better:

1. Take a personality test. There are plenty of tests available online. Some are better than others, so be sure to do some research. The more sophisticated and useful tests aren’t free, but you’re worth it!

2. List your values. What matters to you? What do you stand for? Make a list of your values and put them in order of which are most important to you. Do you live your life according to your values? Top 10 Ways to Learn More About Yourself

> Imagine you’re an acquaintance of yours. How would you order your values based on your words and actions?

3. Whom do you admire? Who are the people you admire the most? Why do you admire them? What character traits and skills do you admire in others? What you admire in others says a lot about you.

4. Whom do you despise and why? Just as informative are the people you strongly dislike. Why do you dislike them? What exactly about them is it that you dislike? Do you see any of those traits in yourself?

5. Ask your friends and family for input. Your friends and family know more about you than you think. They definitely know a thing or two about you that you don’t know. Ask them for assistance in learning more about yourself. Be prepared to be surprised.

6. Imagine watching yourself. Imagine observing yourself for a day. Imagine watching yourself eat. Imagine seeing yourself in your typical clothing. Note how you interact with others. Top 10 Ways to Learn More About Yourself

> You don’t appear to others the way you think you do. This is a chance to see what everyone else sees. If possible, consider setting up a video camera.

7. If you could be granted one wish, what would it be? Imagine being given a wish. What would you do with it? What can you infer from that?

> Wishing for a billion dollars is different from wishing for world peace. Wishing for a loving spouse is different from wishing for the ability to fly or for a new sports car.

> Your answer will tell you a lot about what’s most important to you.

8. What do you believe is the meaning of life? If you had to sum up the meaning of life in one sentence, what would it be? How did you come to that decision? Top 10 Ways to Learn More About Yourself

9. What is your biggest regret? What is the one thing you wish you could go back in time and do over? Why do you regret it so much? How would your life be different if you could redo a few decisions?

10. What makes you anxious? What causes you stress? What makes you worry? Why do these things upset you? What does your anxiety cost you? How does it limit you? How would your life change if you felt much less anxiety?

Knowing yourself is a great challenge. You’ve probably never seriously considered why you think and behave the way you do. We spend a lot of time contemplating people and situations outside of ourselves, but little time investigating ourselves.

If you knew yourself better, you could make a few adjustments and enjoy an easier and more successful life. You’d also be in a better position to deal with old emotional wounds.

Be courageous and take a long, hard look at yourself. Getting to know yourself is challenging, but in the long run, you’ll find that it’s worth the effort.

Top 10 Ways to Learn More About Yourself

Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

Becoming organized has so many benefits. Perhaps the greatest is the ability to turn days filled with chaos into days of focus and effectiveness. Stress has a very negative impact on health. When you’re organized, you’ll no longer worry about all the little things that might be slipping through the cracks. Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

With greater organization, you’ll also be more trustworthy in all aspects of your life. Trustworthiness is the cornerstone of all relationships, both business and personal.

Consider these adopting these habits:

1. Have a place for everything. This habit also relates to your papers, electronic clutter, and even the desktop on your computer. Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

>. Try to limit yourself to just a couple of email accounts. Consider one for business and another for personal emails. If you frequently fill out web forms that result in a lot of spam, another email account could catch all those.

>. Find a solution for your scheduling. One calendar is ideal. It makes sense to use an electronic system if you have a smart phone. Gmail, Yahoo email, and many other free systems are available that can integrate your email, to-do lists, appointments, and calendar. Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

>. For your desktop, make a few folders and categorize things. Place photos in the appropriate folders. Come up with a system that works for you. There’s no reason to spend 30+ minutes over the course of a single day searching for items.

2. Put items away immediately. Disorganized people tend to be poor at putting things away in the moment. It’s only after enough clutter piles up that they have enough discomfort to do anything about it. Then, it’s a major project. Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

>. When you grab your mail, go through it and file it immediately.

>. When you’re done using something, put it away.

>. List that appointment in your system as soon as you schedule it. No organizational system can be successful if you procrastinate.

3. Have a daily routine. Use a to-do list. Ensure the dirty dishes are out of the sink before you go to bed. Spend 10 minutes picking up the family room each morning. There are many things that only take a few minutes if they’re done regularly. Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

4. Create your to-do list each night. Starting the day without a plan is a mistake. It’s far more challenging to get anything done. Before hitting the hay, spend a few minutes and list everything you’d like to get done. Then pick the three most important and make that your list for the following day. Three items might not seem like a lot, but it’s plenty.

>. If you get the three most important things done each day, you’ll be surprised how differently your life looks after a couple of weeks.

Maybe it’s time to finally get organized and get your life and your clutter under control. You’ll be more relaxed, more effective, and a better friend and partner. Developing a couple of effective habits can really make a huge difference in your ability to stay focused on what’s most important to you.

Calm the Chaos in Your Life With Just 4 Easy Habits

https://www.virtua.org/articles/4-steps-to-calm-the-chaos-in-your-mind

Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

Most of us, at some point in our lives, are presented with the opportunity to reinvent ourselves. If you change your job, move to a different town or even country, you can tidy up all the loose ends in your recent past and step out into a brand-new persona.

You can change the way you dress, live, and how you show up in life. This is a particularly refreshing time for those people who welcome change, because it gives them a reason and a purpose to change everything at the same time. Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

If you relish the opportunity to change, consider these Top 10 Tips for reinventing yourself:

1. Avoid giving in to what is expected, reasonable, sensible, or appropriate. The point here is to enjoy yourself. For example:

> If you’ve been ‘the grey suit guy’ all your life and you want to be the Hawaiian Shirt guy, just do it.

> If you’ve been ‘the modest condo guy’, and you secretly lusted after a penthouse suite with views of the ocean, find one. Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

> And if you’ve always been the ‘BMW sedan guy’ but love the idea of driving a 55 Chevy pick-up, this is your time to shine. People will notice that you live life according to your own rules, and you can enjoy every minute of it!

2. If you’re in a new job or locale, this is a time to make new friends. Choose carefully and wisely. You don’t need to be everybody’s friend.

> Keep your circle small. Sound people out and use your new friends to sound out new places and potential new hobbies too. Others will notice that you’re friendly but have a private side too.

3. Practice being a great listener. You’ll be amazed at what you can learn about people, places, and everything else if you just listen. Ask lots of questions. You’re new here and others will expect you to ask questions. Ask some good ones…and listen.

> A surprising perk of this technique is that others will refer to you as a great conversationalist! Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

4. Take time to explore the area …. alone. You’ll notice and appreciate more if you’re alone. Take pictures and make notes. It will make for great conversations later!

5. Be a good neighbor. Take time to help others. Practice random acts of kindness at every opportunity. Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

> Others will appreciate you and speak well of you, especially if you help with no thought of a reward. Do it because you can and for no other reason.

6. Stand up and speak out for things you have a passion for. Let others know that you are both willing and able to make your point, debate an issue, or speak up for those who have no voice. People will notice that you are selfless and put others before yourself.

7. Start early. Show that you have a zest for life and can’t wait to get at it each day. Walk quickly and with purpose. Always be the first to volunteer for everything.

> You will win some and you will lose some, but overall, you will win because everyone will know you as the one who is up for everything.

8. Be generous with your praise for everybody who has earned it. Giving credit to others will show how much you appreciate them, and it will come back to you tenfold.

9. Keep yourself fit and healthy. Set a good example. You don’t have to go crazy – just eat healthy, drink plenty of water, and do some form of exercise that raises your heart rate for 30 minutes each day. Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

> The pay-off is phenomenal. Others will notice you and be inspired, which, in turn, will inspire you to continue.

10. Thank others – for everything, all the time. Show your gratitude to as many people as you can, as often as you can. Most people are starved of thanks for a job well done, for sharing their wisdom, or for acknowledging their kindness.

> People will appreciate you forever if you show them gratitude for good words and deeds. Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

Most of the time, our mind runs on autopilot because how we show up in life is directed by our subconscious mind. When you turn the job over to your conscious mind and really put some thought into it, amazing things can happen.

People’s perception of you can change in a heartbeat if you apply any one of these Top 10 Tips. If you apply yourself to all 10, you will, indeed, be a completely different person – one that you consciously designed. Try it – you’ll like it! Top 10 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

You probably know that meditation is an effective way to relax, but it can be used for many other purposes too. If you’re trying to build your confidence, a daily mindfulness practice may help,

Self-confidence is one of the most important ingredients for your happiness and success. It makes you feel more motivated and energetic. It helps you to reach your goals. It can even strengthen your relationships and enhance your health. The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

Do you want to feel surer of yourself and your ability to face life’s challenges? Learn how to use meditation to build your self-esteem and confidence.

Using Meditation to Increase Your Awareness The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

Self-doubts can narrow your experiences and opportunities if you shy away from taking risks. Meditation creates a safe space for looking at yourself and your habits with honesty and courage.

Try these strategies: The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

1. Scan your body. Your posture affects your confidence. Start your meditation session by sitting up tall and taking deep breaths. Examine yourself from head to foot to spot any discomfort. Try squeezing your muscles and then releasing them.

2. Let go of judgements. Notice your thoughts and feelings without criticizing them. Embrace your strengths and weaknesses. The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

3. Challenge your assumptions. Do you cling to outdated beliefs that hold you back? Rewire your thinking by examining your typical reactions and considering more constructive approaches.

4. Make conscious decisions. It’s easy to wind up drifting along on autopilot. Mindfulness practices help you to take charge of your life.

Using Meditation to Generate Compassion

You may be undermining your self-confidence without even realizing it. Paying attention to your thoughts gives you an opportunity to transform the way you treat yourself. The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

These techniques can help you to be kind to yourself and boost your confidence:

1. Change your self-talk. What does your internal chatter sound like? Replace harsh messages with friendlier feedback.

2. Chant mantras. Reciting uplifting words and phrases is a proven way to stay focused during meditation. Write your own encouraging affirmations or find inspiration in scriptures and self-help books. The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

3. Nurture yourself. Scheduling daily meditation time is a great way to start investing in your confidence and wellbeing. Make healthy eating, regular exercise, and restorative sleep part of your routine too.

4. Seek support. Childhood memories and other influences can make it difficult to show compassion for yourself. Consider listening to guided meditations or talking with a therapist if you need more assistance.

Using Meditation to Accomplish More The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

True confidence comes from within and recognizing your achievements can give you a boost. Meditation teaches you to live more mindfully, and that can help you to excel in your personal and professional life.

1. Slow down. The stress of rushing around can erode your confidence. You’ll probably accomplish more with less effort as meditation trains you to move more deliberately. Figure out your priorities and shorten your to do list. Take breaks throughout the day to prevent burnout. The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

2. Express gratitude. Being thankful makes you feel more secure and connected to others. You’ll have the confidence to take worthwhile risks and try new things. Your warm and relaxed attitude will also make it easier to collaborate with others.

3. Keep practicing. Change is usually a gradual process. Be patient with yourself as you build your confidence. Expect some setbacks and evaluate your progress on a regular basis. You’ll probably find that meditating is more productive on some days than others. You’re a success as long as you keep trying.

4. Create balance. Meditation helps you to look at the big picture. As you balance the various aspects of your life, your confidence and peace of mind increase. The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

Meditation can make your confidence soar. When you love and appreciate yourself for who you are, your life becomes richer and more rewarding.

The Meditative Path to Building Your Confidence

10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

“There is only one true success. To be able to live your own life in your own way.” – Christopher Morley 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

Most people look at the Richard Branson’s and the Elon Musk’s of this world and see them as super successful.

But what if you’re not “most people”? What if you light up over other stories about more tangible, more heart-warming activities that touch your soul? 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

For example, maybe you read a story about a man who spent his whole life planting trees and created a huge new forest that stabilized the soil, attracted a whole new generation of wildlife, and helped address the climate change issue, and thought, “WOW! That is awesome! I wish I had done that.” 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

Or maybe you read a story about a woman who sold everything she had to start a Dog Sanctuary, where she took in all the dogs that people had thrown out, nursed them back to health, trained them, and found forever homes for them with loving families, and it made you cry, and you thought, “I wish that was me.”

What Do You Want? 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

In the real world, the vast majority of people are not interested in climbing the corporate ladder. Nor are they really interested in being a multi-millionaire. Profit, power, and prestige don’t interest them.

What they are really interested in is doing something they love, something that they can feel passionate about, something that makes them want to stay up late and get up to start early because they absolutely love what they do. Something that their soul yearns for and makes their heart sing. 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

But most of those same people feel trapped in a job they don’t like, working way too hard for too little money. Most of them have too much month left over at the end of the money, and they are sick of it. Worse still, they have no idea of how to get out of it, so they feel trapped.

Are you like these people? 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

Here are 10 things you can do to move away from what you don’t want and toward what you do want: 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

1. Avoid putting up with things, circumstances, or people that make you feel bad. Life is short. Let go of it all, starting today. Take one step at a time. Make a conscious effort to eliminate everything in your life that doesn’t fill you with joy or inspiration.

2. Pay attention to what catches your eye, piques your interest, and causes you to think. Take notes on all of those things – where you saw them, what it was that got your interest, and how you feel about those topics. Somewhere in there is a vibrant future for you.

3. Design your ideal day. What time would you get up? What would your ideal home look like? Where would you live? What would you do with your time? Who would you spend time with? How would it all make you feel?

4. Collect stories of people who inspire you. Start making notes on hobbies, activities, or careers that you feel you would like to explore. Start doing some research. Then find someone who is already doing that and go talk with them. 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

> Buy them coffee, lunch or interview them. Ask lots of questions. Take good notes.

5. Once a week, take everything you’ve thought about, collected, and researched and put it onto the table like a jigsaw. Look for all the commonalities in what you’ve discovered. Think of it like a treasure map that you need to complete to find your fortune. 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

6. Think about starting a part-time business that you could run from home. Something that would give you a sense of freedom, independence, and an income independent of your job. Even if it’s only modestly successful, you could use the income to fund your passion.

7. If you don’t like your job, think about changing it for something that might move you a little closer to completing your treasure map. Maybe, by leveraging the income from your home-business, you could take a part-time job doing something much more enjoyable. 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

8. Remember: Change can only come from making decisions and taking action. Practice being decisive. Practice taking action. You’ll notice that your confidence will rise in proportion to the number of decisions you make and the number of actions you take.

9. Gain clarity. By now you will have at least some awareness on where your future might be waiting for you and what it might look and feel like. What you need now is clarity. The clearer you get on everything the easier it is to move toward it, and as soon as you move toward it, it will move toward you. 10 Actions for Fulfilling Life

10. Hire a coach. Find a coach to help you bring all your ideas into focus and into reality. It will not only be the smartest investment in yourself that you’ve ever made, but it will also be the most permanent and fulfilling.

Life is here for us to enjoy, not endure. Find out what it is that your soul yearns for and what will make your heart sing. Others have done it, why not you? Take it one step at a time, one day at a time, and pursue this adventure we call Life.

Create your own treasure map and make a conscious, determined effort to follow it. There will be twists and turns along the way, so expect them. Now is the time. Make that decision and act upon it NOW!

10 Actions for Fulfilling Life