Little Frustrations

Every day we make choices about how we wish to experience life.  Sometimes we feel free and happy and notice the sunshine and the smell of newly cut grass.  On other days, we may feel a bit gloomy or grumpy and find it more difficult to cope.

Why is that?

I can get up, brush my teeth, get dressed the same way every day, but my outlook can be totally opposite on Tuesday then it was on Monday.  On days when life seems more challenging, I can find so many examples of little frustrations that nag me and cause me to stumble and complain.  Nothing particularly significant, like the air pressure in my rear left tire seems low, or the price of airfare increased $60.00 on the flight I should have booked yesterday, or the realization that my check book balance isn’t what I would like it to be.

What we choose to do and how we choose to respond to all life offers says a lot about where we are in our beliefs.  When we are completely aligned with the God-Power or Spirit of all life, nothing can hold us down.  There is no frustration that will take away our positive outlook and we will never lash out at another for our pain, confusion or current status.

Oh, but when we lose focus and forget who we are - - well, those are the days when pulling the covers back over our heads seems the best choice.

When I taught customer service reps how to handle irate customers we had a rule for allowing a disgruntled customer to vent.  It was the 180 Second Rule - - the idea was that it takes approximately 180 seconds to rant and rave about all the injustices in our world and move through the emotions allowing one to return to a more logical or calm state of mind.  It is when the emotion has been released that we can begin to solve our problems.  This idea would represent the negative side of the matter.

What would be better is to take a minute, yes, 60 seconds and simply state aloud the situation you want instead of complaining about the circumstances of your discomfort - - and you can shift your entire outlook.

We often get caught up in being human and forget we are all from Source (God).  We lose site of the fact we were created to enjoy life and express love.  When we forget we unleash an ego side that is far from content with any facet of life.  Ego is fearful, angry, brash, controlling and too many times, looking for a fight.

Yet, when we remember we were created from perfection and designed to live a good life filled with joy and love and success - - then the little frustrations slip past us and often we fail to notice them at all.

I prefer to take 60 seconds and out picture my life in perfection free from frustration.  I absolutely know I can replace the air in my tire, purchase the ticket at a great rate although it is a bit higher then yesterday and I can create more income flowing into my life and my bank account to ensure I am living successfully and all my bills are paid.

By taking one minute to state out loud my life’s purpose, my goals and my desires for my work, I lose sight of anything negative and move into creative mode.  It was this very act this afternoon that has brought forth this writing.  Every time I remember who I am and why I am here, something wonderful flows from my heart and touches the hearts of others.  Life is a blessing and I am a gift.  In the same manner so are you.

Each one of us can choose our experience and move into the light of living life fully.  There is no need to seek solace in the darkness and pulling the covers up over your head is only a momentary fix.

This week take 60 seconds and rewrite your story.  Add all the love, success and abundance you wish to experience.  And know that at the end of 60 seconds you will be on your way to achieving exactly what you desire.

Note to readers:  My blog will be moving to my website and can be found at www.jenniferwildeworld.com - - blessings on your journey!

Enough Is Enough

Do you know when enough really is?  For many of us this may be difficult.  We have so many options and opportunities in life and it is so easy to accumulate more and more and more . . .

 Take a look around your home.  Do you have stacks of things you just had to purchase and now have no place to keep them?  Have the coffee table and end tables become storage units for clutter?  When was the last time you actually saw your kitchen table? 

We can literally fill our lives to overflowing and for some this may be a representation of abundance.  But truly it is evidence of not knowing when to stop. 

When we remove the external clutter from our lives we clear the channel for good to come to us.  All of our external affairs and circumstances are manifestations of our internal belief system.  What you see around you and manifesting in your life is evidence of the thoughts and beliefs you hold.

Clutter and chaos keep us from moving forward.  These are wonderful tools to keep us living small.  How can one experience clarity, focus, power and presence when everywhere you look there are stacks of things that need to be put away, given away or simply tossed out?

Whether your world is adorned with gifts, knickknacks, magazines, clothes that don’t fit or dirty dishes - - it is the same as your internal focus.  When we harbor resentment, anger, criticism and a right/wrong mindset we continue to trip ourselves up at every turn.  The external clutter will cause you to stumble and fall in the same way the internal ideas and beliefs will hinder your growth and your ability to step into your own greatness.

 Nature knows when enough is enough.  The idea of animals in the wild surviving based on the strongest and most resilient is a great example for us.  Consider a tree outside your home.  When was the last time you saw one with too many leaves for the tree to hold?  The creative process knows when to stop.  When to call it a day and when to rest.

The Japanese practice hara, hachi bu, which means to eat until one feels 80% full.  This could be one reason Japan has the lowest obesity statistics on the planet.

This week as you feel the need to dig in your heels and put your shoulder to the grindstone because you need to do more, be more and have more -  – consider the idea of enough simply being enough.  Blessings on your journey.

DO-IT-YOURSELF

Life is filled with a multitude of opportunities for success and for growth.  As long as we continue to persevere, persist and put one foot in front of the other - - we succeed.  Everything that seems to fall short of success is simply another option life offers us for learning and growth.

Often times we can miss these opportunities by giving up before we even start.  Perhaps we are struggling with fear and find ourselves unable to move forward.  And exactly what is that fear about?  Well, sometimes it is a fear of failure and sometimes it is a fear of success.  This may sound odd, but when we are successful life shifts right beneath our feet and we find we are changing and adjusting to a new identity; one of success.  There is a great responsibility that comes with success, fortune and fame.  For many this idea is too much to consider and it feels too challenging or difficult.  We may find it easier to remain in exactly the same place we are today and just go with the flow.  It is in this decision or mindset one truly fails.

I find myself holding back at times.  Although I hate to admit it I am sure it is fear that halts my momentum and desire to tackle any situation.  I can actually feel my “whatever it takes” attitude turn to mush as I forget important follow-ups, meetings, and taking time for my writing.  I mean, really, what would happen if I became the famous author I have dreamed of my entire life?  How would my life be different than is it today?  Oh, the steps I am taking in this direction are small steps indeed, but if I take time to look down the road at my vision and the end result as I know it today, well, it simply takes my breath away and my heart skips a beat.

I find myself in a constant state of comparison - - I look at other speakers and writers and decide where I measure up in comparison to them.  I create stories about their backgrounds and education and, simply put, offer them the platform I am not willing to step up on by deciding they have more to offer the world.

Somewhere in this arena of brain damage the message comes through, again.  I am reminded of my quest, my dream, my passion and my destiny.  It is in this moment I remember who I am and why I am here.  And it is in this realization I take another step.

It is like a do-it-yourself manual.  As long as you are willing to follow the steps in the order they are designed the end result will be the product you have been seeking.  But if we mix the steps up or bring in someone else to complete the task, then the experience is not the same.

Have you noticed how often you delegate someone else a task, or possibly you wait for them to shine before you can take the steps necessary to accomplish your dreams and goals?  I am not talking about asking for help I am talking about slipping into the background and hiding while someone else strives to accomplish their life’s purpose.  It is as simple as saying, “well that is good for you/them, after all look at their life, education, opportunities, health, physique, well-being and look at mine.

 We were not put on this planet to compete.  We are a part of a grand design in a universe of unlimited wealth and potential.  It is n this truth we can realize there is more than enough for each of us.  We can all have love, success, wealth, health and happiness.  And we can all have it at the level we choose.

Each one of us was created in the perfection of Source (God).  We came into this experience in absolute perfection.  Nothing is missing, everything is right here for each of us.  We don’t have to strive to be perfect - - we already are.  We don’t need to sell ourselves short - - we only need recognize our perfection and the fact each of us was created for greatness.

And then, it is in this awareness we realize we can do this thing called Life.  And we can do it very well.  In fact, we can step into “do-it-yourself” mode and co-create our lives exactly as we choose.  Each one of us has the inner wisdom and the knowing and the talent to succeed.  The manual for this is unique for each one of us and we only need take it one step at a time.

 And as you continue to see in your mind’s eye the end result, you must know that step-by-step you are getting closer.  There are hundreds of people ready to help you on your journey, but no one of them can interpret your guide, your manual as well as you can.

Life is extraordinary and you can choose this week to take the next step, trust your inner wisdom, trust the process and create the outcome you want.  Just do-it-yourself.

The Little Things

We can seek the joy and blessings of the little things in life, especially when big things are happening.  Many of us, today, are dealing with larger than life problems, challenges and loss.  It is often difficult to keep our heads above water and simply cope.

When I have down times it is usually the result of something significant topping the heap of daily issues and taking the breath right out of me.  The world begins to feel smaller and less kind and my focus draws inward.  This is a time when I do a lot of self-talk and have a tendency to try and work everything out all by myself.

This is natural for many of us, but often leaves me feeling limited and separate from the rest of the world.  In this place, this state of mind it is difficult to “power up” and take on anything, including whatever got me down in the first place.

We all experience dark days where there is sorrow and pain and possibly despair.  We can take a life situation and chew on it, mull it over and rationalize all the past mistakes and poor choices - - but, where does that get us?

How helpful are we to our inner spirit when we attempt to accomplish it all on our own?  For me, this answer is easy - - not that helpful!  I can allow my mood and feelings to go deeper and deeper into sorrow or I can look for support, love, prayer and guidance from God, friends and all that life has to offer.

It is this very circumstance I write about today.  Sitting on my back patio I immediately shift my perspective to the sun as it warms my skin.  As I look around me, I don’t have to go very far to find a gem being offered that is beautiful and simple and a welcome distraction.  As I watch an ant move across the concrete hauling a larger than life load of grain or some crumb I am reminded to put one foot in front of the other and keep going.

I see this magnificent creature pursue, persevere and somehow it appears to even trust the process of life.  It KNOWS it can succeed and accomplish the task at hand.  This is true of all of nature - - it knows how to be.  A simple experience I often forget – how to be.  It is in this place of being that I rest, rejuvenate, refresh my mind and re-energize my spirit and body to continue on.  It is in “being” I find little things surprising me and enticing me as they catch my attention.  A butterfly, the sound of distant laughter and the deer in our complex with wobbly-legged fawns frolicking across the grass are all reminders to let go of any pain and enjoy the beauty and little things constantly surrounding me.

I am taking little steps to change and grow and evolve.  I am taking little moments to reflect and appreciate all life around me.  And I am enjoying the little beauties and reminders of calm moments, happier times, and the abundance of nature with its continuous promise that life is grand and God is Good.

Claiming Independence

The history of our independence is marked by the vote of the Second Continental Congress to approve a resolution of independence of the Thirteen Colonies from the Kingdom of Great Britain on July 2, 1776.

The following day, John Adams wrote his wife Abigail, “The second day of July, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Mr. Adams was correct on all counts regarding how future generations would celebrate independence in years to follow.  Unfortunately, Congress continued to debate the revision of Declaration of Independence, and the date it was declared was July 4, 1776. 

Regardless of the delay, John Adams predicted our recognition and celebration of our Independence with great clarity and hope.

Today, and every day since this historical event in 1776, Americans have held on to the idea of living free.  We are free in every aspect of the word. We are free to choose how to live, where to live, who to have as friends, where to work and where to worship.

We are free to choose our own opinions and ideas regarding any situation and we are free to choose our attitude toward anything and any one.

What will you do with this great responsibility of freedom?  How will you handle the idea that you are completely at choice?  There truly is no one and no thing that has provided the path to bring you exactly where you are today.  It has transpired in a series of decisions, choices and beliefs that are yours alone.

As this nation celebrates our independence this week, it is a perfect time for each of us to go within and consider our own concept of freedom.  What is taking place in your life that is impairing your ability to feel completely free?

For some it may be a job that seems to be going no where; or possibly working with someone who attempts to hold you small or confine your ability to shine.  It could be a relationship that tugs at your heart strings and prevents you from feeling the freedom of being loved and loving openly, honestly in return.

Maybe you are stuck in a financial bind with a house payment or bills that are tough to maintain.  Are you being managed by your situation or are you choosing to manage your life with the freedom of daily choice?

Wherever you are today, you can choose a different experience for tomorrow.  Each one of us was created at choice.  As we make new decisions, our circumstances change and offer more options.  There truly is nothing that can hold you back or hold you down, unless you have given your permission for this to take place.

My favorite quote from Victor Frankl states, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
Today we can all claim our independence.  We can choose new experiences for every moment of our lives.  Our forefathers gave their lives, energy and passion to the idea of freedom.  We, now live in this experience and can expand it into every facet of our lives - - if we choose.

Changes

Is it really possible to end up in a “rut”?  Everyday we are faced with change of some sort.  We may be forced to take an alternate route to work due to construction or some mishap in traffic; or possibly a simple decision putting into action a new course that will result in a new direction for some area of your life.

The idea of a “being in a rut” is related to our perceptions and not necessarily the truth.  Change is everywhere - - the weather, nature, our body, our relationships.  And because change is all around the only “rut’ we need to get out of is our own way of thinking. There really is no rut, only our own tunnel vision from time to time.

And just as life around us is changing, our thoughts and patterns continue to change.  Think about something that you really held on to, let’s say, five years ago.  Now consider all of the factors in your life that have changed in the past five years.  Nothing is stagnant, nothing remains the same.  Change is a part of life and we must alter our thinking and awareness daily to continue to grow and mature.

I once thought that some of the greatest musicians on the planet were Donnie and Marie Osmond and Barry Manilow.  I’m sure I never spoke this  out loud and I’m pretty sure my belief only lasted a few months - - but for a short time; ahhh, I found their music inspiring and beautiful.

Today it really is so easy to “shift” - - you hear some message on the radio or TV; or you see an inspirational quote posted on facebook or someone’s blog and “pow” - - you are thinking new ideas..  You are expanding your consciousness and soon you are seeking new insights.

We have the ability to change our outlook on where we are today and even our memories of the past.  We realize the past cannot be changed, but we can certainly look at it differently and choose the way we want to remember it.  We can focus on the lessons learned ---the miracles that came from the struggles and the strength and peace resulting from difficult choices.  We can choose to focus on the fact we are today who we are as a result of our past and experiences. 

Change can be a wonderful thing---it keeps life fresh and new and keeps us growing.  This week you may want to take time to focus on the many changes happening in your life each day - - and let go of an idea that you were ever in a rut.

Get Real

How do you like your eggs?  Sunny side up?  Scrambled?  Poached?

Think about it; isn’t there a special way you prefer your eggs?  Maybe you don’t even like eggs.  There is story about a woman who allowed the man she was dating to decide how she preferred her eggs.  When questioned about their relationship with her, each man (and there were a few) had a different description of her and stated her egg preference matched theirs perfectly. This false idea led each man to believe he had met the woman of his dreams.

When we follow the crowd because we want to be liked, we fail our true self.  When we continue to make choices based on the ideas and habits of those around us, we lose sight of who we are.  And one day, we discover we have dysfunctional or harmful relationships that are far from fulfilling or joyful.

It is a good idea to know how you like your eggs.  It is an even better idea to know what you love, what you are passionate about and what you really want in life.  The time for settling for leftovers or resigning yourself to what shows up has past.  Today, we are wiser, more aware and more in tune to our dreams and desires.

There is something you want to have or do or be.  Anything less will not bring you happiness.  Happiness results from self love and self respect.  And as you learn to love self, first, everything else falls into place in every situation as you move forward in life.  But in the same vein, if you have compromised yourself over and over again - - a piece of your authentic self is lost and you simply cannot be happy.  And you find there is no one “out there” who can “make” you happy.

No, the truth is, happiness is a responsibility that is ours and ours alone.  We must identify what makes us happy and then carry your happiness, contentment and confidence into every situation and relationship.

Consider a time in your life when you were living authentically.  You absolutely knew what you liked and what you disliked.  It may have been a time before many of the influential people in your life tried to tell you what you needed to like or what you should do in any situation.  It was quite likely a time prior to adolescence.

This week offers many opportunities to get real.  Getting to know and understand the person you are is important to your health and well-being.  It is fear holding you back from speaking your mind and demonstrating your unique individuality.  You are making a huge mistake when you follow along with an idea or an individual that doesn’t honor your standards.  What results is loss of self respect.

Mistakes are great learning tools.  But, really, how many lessons do you need?  You can begin today by loving the beautiful being you are.  Take a stand for your ideas, values, and views about life.  Set boundaries for your relationships and maintain them with respect, honor and kindness.

Live in the moment without regret.  Show up as the amazing, unique expression of God you are.  And begin now, today, by simply identifying and honoring your true self.