Fear Cuts You Off From The Supply of Answers

A wise woman once told me that fears cuts you off from the supply of answers.  I had no idea that I had been living much of my life in a state of fear.  I was afraid of change though I wanted change.  I was afraid of not earning enough money, afraid I will never own property and the list goes on.  I was in a state of rote habits, doing what was asked and hoping that my sliver of the pies contains enough for me to get by and maybe, occasionally, thrive.

Afraid to move on from your job that no longer sparks creativity?  Feeling low about moving onto a higher position which challenges you more than where you are and in which you are qualified?  Feeling the pull of starting your own business, but afraid to take the leap?  I was too until I really dug into the idea of fear and how it is not serving me.  What I came to understand is that the origins of these fears were based in thought. One single thought that began years ago or in childhood that was accepted by me and spiraled out of control.  I was told the untruth, or I created it based on an experience.  For example, “Starting your own business is what people with master’s degree do. It is important to take a job that is “safe”.  You can’t make money being creative and, therefore, we can’t support this decision to go to that college.  At this point in your life, you really can’t afford to change directions in your career.  Teachers make no money. It’s a career of love not money”.  The list goes on. These untruths were accepted by me and I held myself in bondage by a system of beliefs I imposed and enforced.  In addition, these thoughts played out in other areas of my life, not just work.

After recognizing this belief system, I decided to begin eliminating the power of each thought one by one.  I did not attack all thoughts at once.  Simply one at a time. When an imperious thought would surface, I would slowly recognize it and dismiss its power by affirming that thought is untrue and replaced it with its opposite.  For example, “Starting your own business is something that people with master’s degrees do” became “I have the creative power to start a business and I have enough support and tools to do so.” Slowly, I became aware of the power of my thoughts and the absolute control I have over my life by rejecting the negative ones.  As I have said before, joy is our birthright.  If you are unhappy with the direction of your career, you have the power to redirect. Want to start your own business? You absolutely can! Eliminate your limited thoughts one belief at a time and watch how your life can change.

 

Getting Still

Have things been a bit tough lately?  Do you sometimes feel like you are not yourself? Are you feeling confused regarding a decision or has an unwanted situation presented itself and you feel stuck, lost or upset?

I have certainly felt all that plus more.  On top of all of it, you have to continue to work, go to school, parent etc…how can you deal?  Here are simple tips in managing stress: Exercise, healthy diet, limited alcohol consumption, journaling. However, I want to suggest a few extras to help you along in your day.

Begin The Day Right.  Wake up with just a few extra minutes that will take away the “morning rush” within you.  Even if you have kids (I have a toddler), I still set the mornings tone to be calm and create time to do things without rushing.

Nourishment.  Do your very best to make healthy food choices.  Your body is your physical powerhouse ready and alive. It provides you the most energy that is needed to have a day rooted in balance and creativity.  Also, get out for a walk after lunch even if its around the block. Just get some air and a change of scenery.

Organized.  Stay organized at work.  To be able to do so requires less rushing and more relaxed focus.  Staying free of mess and clutter allows you to be more efficient and clear.  Its ok if you fall into the “I’m not a very organized person”, but you can plan ahead of time and stay on point.

Being Perfect.  We all want to succeed and do our best, but too much pressure, especially in high-pressure working environments, can lead to nervous behavior and inner criticism resulting in disappointment and driving you and others around you crazy!  Do your best. That’s what is required of you and acknowledge your efforts and achievements. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done. Be your own coach and keep constructive criticism healthy.

Get Still And Let Go.  This is the best of the best saved for last.  You have to get still. No distractions. Just a moment where you just sit and connect to your breath.  This does not have to be some out-of-body euphoric experience (though it could). Just sit, relax. Perhaps listen to nature sounds, no sounds, look at a candle, just sit and ground yourself.  Let your body rest in the stillness of who your really are. If thoughts come up, let them, that is a sign of releasing stress. Refocus on the breath and stay in the quiet moment.

Find things that bring joy more often than not.  Perhaps that’s music, cooking a new recipe, doing an arts and craft project with the kids, a monthly spa Groupon, exploring a new restaurant once in a while, seeking out new wines to try, joining a community sports team, doing some yoga at home, starting or joining a book club, finding a spiritual center, listening to a great and uplifting podcast.  Find joy! A prosperous life is lived in love and peace.