Day 58 Put Your Life Into Categories

Day 58

Every so often we each need to take a moment to break down our life into categories and then assess how happy we are section by section. Make a list of all the important areas of your life including Love, Finances, Career, Children, Family, Friends, Home, Health and Spirituality. Are you fulfilled in each area? Figure out which parts of your life that you are lacking in satisfaction and then take action. If your love life is not where you want it to be then sign up for a dating service or spice up your romantic side if you are already involved with someone. If money or career are bringing you down then it is time to get out of your comfort zone and find a new job or start your own business. If you need to bring in a few extra dollars, sell some old items that you aren't using anymore. Create ways to enhance the areas in your life that are not bringing you satisfaction and the feeling of zen.

Depending on where you are are emotionally, each time you do this exercise you may find ups and downs in different categories. The goal is to try to have as few areas as possible that are weighing you down so that you can be remain content and even. Life is a balancing act so be sure to check in and see where the holes are and then fill them in with anything and everything that lifts your spirit.

The more often you do this exercise, the more content you will become.

 



Day 57 Listen To Your Own Advice

Day 57

Have you ever taken a moment to listen to the advice you are giving to others? You lend your ear and share your great ideas but perhaps you are not practicing what you preach. It is often during the moments of counseling others that you answer your own inner questions. Listen to the advice you are giving out and the direction you are telling friends to go. Decide if you are actually helping yourself with your path as well. Talking it out with others is a great way to sift through inner confusion even if your concerns aren't the direct topic. Listen to the input you're giving and see if you can apply it to your own situations. You may solve your own inner turmoil without even realizing it.



Day 56 Every Chip In The Bag Tastes The Same

Day 56

Have you ever found yourself diving into a bag of chips or pretzels eating one after the other at a rapid pace? At some point we seem to realize that each one tastes just the same as the one before regardless of how quickly or slowly we eat them. This is very similar to the idea of rushing to the next activity or experience in our lives. If we don't stop to check in with ourselves and make sure we are experiencing happiness, love and goodness, each milestone will feel the same. If you are feeling happy and content inside, that will stay with you and will grow with each accomplishment you succeed in but if you are feeling unhappy, restless and ungrateful, that too will stay with you regardless of how many new endeavors come your way. Savor each moment (or chip) and try not to rush to the next one before you have a chance to check in and make sure you are filled with inner joy and peace. Years ago I wanted to move out of town after I experienced a let down with a dream of mine. My dad said something to me that I have never forgotten which was  "wherever you go, you have to go with yourself." This really says it all. Whatever you are feeling and whoever you are at each moment, this will be reality regardless of where you are physically in your life. Do your very best to indulge your "zen" as often as you can in each phase or your journey so that you don't have to continue looking for the next morsel in effort to find happiness. You have the power to be happy every step of the way. Enjoy every chip!