AM I ADDICTED?
AM I ADDICTED?? (A Test)
As a “Certified Addictions Life Coach” I have several tests available to me to help you answer the question. What I think is unimportant; all that matters is the conclusions you draw.
Rather than reinvent the wheel, I am quoting material from Jan Edward Williams which I completely support. While Jan specifically mentions alcohol, by and large that word is interchangeable with any addiction (drugs, gambling, sex, eating, and many more). Keep this in mind as you read through this material and answer questions honestly. Only you will know the results!
First of all, I commend you for making the decision to address your alcohol problem. By acknowledging that your drinking is causing you problems, you have broken through a lot of the denial that prevents people from getting help. Let me just define alcoholism for you. Many alcoholics do not drink every day and are not physically dependent on alcohol (will have cravings and withdrawal when they stop). It is sometimes not as important how often (frequency) a person drinks, as what happens when the person drinks. Not drinking for a month or longer, while commendable, merely means that you are not physically dependent on alcohol. Physical dependence is not required for a definition of alcoholism. A pattern of loss of control, blackouts, behaviour against values, and self-destructive behaviours, plus a high tolerance, strongly suggests that you may be one of those people who, though a periodic drinker and not physically dependent, may have to conclude that she is an alcoholic and that drinking is not a viable option. I do not have enough information (do you have a family history of alcohol problems?) to say that you cannot learn to moderate your drinking, but urge you to get a complete evaluation from an addictions professional, rather than look to find a program to moderate your drinking. There is a program for persons WHO ARE NOT ALCOHOLIC to help them moderate their drinking, but I hesitate giving you this information because from what you have said you may already be in the alcoholic category, as offensive as that idea may be. Good luck to you. .
A common misconception is that in order for a person to have a problem with AOD, he or she must use every day, and must physically crave the substance. Often problem users drink or use other drugs only two-to-three times per week. The best question is not "Do I have to drink?”, or, "Can I stop using marijuana during the week?", but, "Is my substance use causing me problems in important areas of my life?"
Here are some more danger signs.
• Alcohol, depression and/or drug problems in parents, grandparents, or other close family members.
• Tolerance, need for more to achieve intoxication or the desired effect.
• Blackouts, gaps in memory for what happened while using.
• Loss of control, difficulty stopping once started, or inability to control frequency of use.
Here are some specific Questions which explore how AOD use can harm an individual in significant life areas:
• Has substance use hurt your work performance, or academic performance, if in school?
• Have any of your friends said they were worried or concerned about your use or your behaviour while using?
• Has substance use caused any tension in relationships with important people in your life, such as a spouse, boy or girl friend, or roommates?
• Has your behaviour while using caused you any social embarrassment or hurt your reputation?
• Has your AOD use caused you to do things that go against your value system?
• Do you use AOD even though advised not to because of a medical condition (for example, ulcer, diabetes, or being on medication for depression)? Have you due to AOD use gotten into legal trouble (e.g., DWI, disorderly conduct, drug charges).
• Have you ever had an injury, or been to the ER, or hospitalized due to AOD use?
• Have you ever gotten into any fights while using?
• Do you often drive a car knowing you would flunk a sobriety test if caught?
• Have you ever been to see a counsellor or therapist where part of the problem related to AOD use?
A "Yes" to any of these questions is cause for concern and indicates the person may be developing a harmful relationship with alcohol or other drugs.
Please feel free to contact me through this site, phone email or Skype for a no cost, no risk discussion.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
सेल्फ-एस्टीम 2012
2012-Mission to Improve Self-esteem
To be of service to others, I do a lot of reading and research. Original thinking is fine but what I know and coach originated from others.
The biggest issues I help others to come to grips with are related to self-esteem. Today I share writing from Francine Ward, a lady I wish I had as a coaching client!
“Self-esteem comes from honouring your healing journey
My life is not perfect. I make a lot of mistakes. Sometimes, I stumble and fall. I am a work in progress. And when I remember that simple fact, I am better for the experience.
It's easy to start on a path of change and get so busy doing what we need to do that we forget to stop, breathe, and acknowledge the effort we've already made. We forget to honour our own healing journey. There are times when I have to be reminded to do for myself what I do for others. The other day, a friend caught me denigrating the work I put into a project because it wasn't done perfectly. When she asked how it was coming along, I said, "I can't seem to get it down perfectly. It's horrible." I then spent ten minutes - which was as long as she could tolerate my ranting - downplaying the work I had put into the project so far. She couldn't believe she was listening to me. "You could be one of your own clients," she said. And how right she was. I needed to be coached at that moment in time. And after our conversation, I called my coach.
Healing is hard work. It takes great effort to stay on a path that leads to purposeful self-discovery. It takes energy - persistent energy - to be an active participant in the creation of our lives. A healing path requires having the courage to shine a light or allow a light to shine on parts of ourselves that we'd rather keep private. It means having the courage to see the work that still needs to be done. Honouring our healing journey invites us to appreciate the effort that has been made.
It's important to heal and to honour the work done.”
What a great message, a message from someone who truly understands the path to achieving healthy self-esteem and one who appreciates the important role a coach plays.
Want to achieve more in your life in 2012 and live the life you were meant to? Get over your scepticism and give coaching a try! Contact me without obligation!
To be of service to others, I do a lot of reading and research. Original thinking is fine but what I know and coach originated from others.
The biggest issues I help others to come to grips with are related to self-esteem. Today I share writing from Francine Ward, a lady I wish I had as a coaching client!
“Self-esteem comes from honouring your healing journey
My life is not perfect. I make a lot of mistakes. Sometimes, I stumble and fall. I am a work in progress. And when I remember that simple fact, I am better for the experience.
It's easy to start on a path of change and get so busy doing what we need to do that we forget to stop, breathe, and acknowledge the effort we've already made. We forget to honour our own healing journey. There are times when I have to be reminded to do for myself what I do for others. The other day, a friend caught me denigrating the work I put into a project because it wasn't done perfectly. When she asked how it was coming along, I said, "I can't seem to get it down perfectly. It's horrible." I then spent ten minutes - which was as long as she could tolerate my ranting - downplaying the work I had put into the project so far. She couldn't believe she was listening to me. "You could be one of your own clients," she said. And how right she was. I needed to be coached at that moment in time. And after our conversation, I called my coach.
Healing is hard work. It takes great effort to stay on a path that leads to purposeful self-discovery. It takes energy - persistent energy - to be an active participant in the creation of our lives. A healing path requires having the courage to shine a light or allow a light to shine on parts of ourselves that we'd rather keep private. It means having the courage to see the work that still needs to be done. Honouring our healing journey invites us to appreciate the effort that has been made.
It's important to heal and to honour the work done.”
What a great message, a message from someone who truly understands the path to achieving healthy self-esteem and one who appreciates the important role a coach plays.
Want to achieve more in your life in 2012 and live the life you were meant to? Get over your scepticism and give coaching a try! Contact me without obligation!
Mission To Improve Self-esteem?
Mission To Improve Self-esteem?
2012-Mission to Improve Self-esteem
To be of service to others, I do a lot of reading and research. Original thinking is fine but what I know and coach originated from others.
The biggest issues I help others to come to grips with are related to self-esteem. Today I share writing from Francine Ward, a lady I wish I had as a coaching client!
“Self-esteem comes from honouring your healing journey
My life is not perfect. I make a lot of mistakes. Sometimes, I stumble and fall. I am a work in progress. And when I remember that simple fact, I am better for the experience.
It's easy to start on a path of change and get so busy doing what we need to do that we forget to stop, breathe, and acknowledge the effort we've already made. We forget to honour our own healing journey. There are times when I have to be reminded to do for myself what I do for others. The other day, a friend caught me denigrating the work I put into a project because it wasn't done perfectly. When she asked how it was coming along, I said, "I can't seem to get it down perfectly. It's horrible." I then spent ten minutes - which was as long as she could tolerate my ranting - downplaying the work I had put into the project so far. She couldn't believe she was listening to me. "You could be one of your own clients," she said. And how right she was. I needed to be coached at that moment in time. And after our conversation, I called my coach.
Healing is hard work. It takes great effort to stay on a path that leads to purposeful self-discovery. It takes energy - persistent energy - to be an active participant in the creation of our lives. A healing path requires having the courage to shine a light or allow a light to shine on parts of ourselves that we'd rather keep private. It means having the courage to see the work that still needs to be done. Honouring our healing journey invites us to appreciate the effort that has been made.
It's important to heal and to honour the work done.”
What a great message, a message from someone who truly understands the path to achieving healthy self-esteem and one who appreciates the important role a coach plays.
Want to achieve more in your life in 2012 and live the life you were meant to? Get over your scepticism and give coaching a try! Contact me without obligation!
2012-Mission to Improve Self-esteem
To be of service to others, I do a lot of reading and research. Original thinking is fine but what I know and coach originated from others.
The biggest issues I help others to come to grips with are related to self-esteem. Today I share writing from Francine Ward, a lady I wish I had as a coaching client!
“Self-esteem comes from honouring your healing journey
My life is not perfect. I make a lot of mistakes. Sometimes, I stumble and fall. I am a work in progress. And when I remember that simple fact, I am better for the experience.
It's easy to start on a path of change and get so busy doing what we need to do that we forget to stop, breathe, and acknowledge the effort we've already made. We forget to honour our own healing journey. There are times when I have to be reminded to do for myself what I do for others. The other day, a friend caught me denigrating the work I put into a project because it wasn't done perfectly. When she asked how it was coming along, I said, "I can't seem to get it down perfectly. It's horrible." I then spent ten minutes - which was as long as she could tolerate my ranting - downplaying the work I had put into the project so far. She couldn't believe she was listening to me. "You could be one of your own clients," she said. And how right she was. I needed to be coached at that moment in time. And after our conversation, I called my coach.
Healing is hard work. It takes great effort to stay on a path that leads to purposeful self-discovery. It takes energy - persistent energy - to be an active participant in the creation of our lives. A healing path requires having the courage to shine a light or allow a light to shine on parts of ourselves that we'd rather keep private. It means having the courage to see the work that still needs to be done. Honouring our healing journey invites us to appreciate the effort that has been made.
It's important to heal and to honour the work done.”
What a great message, a message from someone who truly understands the path to achieving healthy self-esteem and one who appreciates the important role a coach plays.
Want to achieve more in your life in 2012 and live the life you were meant to? Get over your scepticism and give coaching a try! Contact me without obligation!
Monday, January 9, 2012
2012
A NEW YOU IN 2012?
READY FOR CHANGE?
Here we are, 9 days in to a new year and most things back to normal. By now, a majority of people who have made resolutions have broken them
As you looked at a new year, what changes have you committed to make in how you live? More importantly, how are you going to make them? What has held you back?
Winston Churchill once said, “I’m always ready to learn, although I don’t always like being taught.” Can you relate?
A reminder to myself every January (and most days) is that I have no power over certain people, places and thinks and long ago I accepted completely that this includes alcohol, drugs and certain other behaviours (habits). As long as I keep this at the forefront, within reason my life has remained manageable.
I did not achieve this way of life on my own and had much help along the way. Over the past nearly two decades, I have had the good fortune to coach others and help them find the ability to make major change within themselves.
Do you want a new you in key areas of your life this year? Are you ready for change?
I am a change catalyst; please feel free to contact me in confidence.
READY FOR CHANGE?
Here we are, 9 days in to a new year and most things back to normal. By now, a majority of people who have made resolutions have broken them
As you looked at a new year, what changes have you committed to make in how you live? More importantly, how are you going to make them? What has held you back?
Winston Churchill once said, “I’m always ready to learn, although I don’t always like being taught.” Can you relate?
A reminder to myself every January (and most days) is that I have no power over certain people, places and thinks and long ago I accepted completely that this includes alcohol, drugs and certain other behaviours (habits). As long as I keep this at the forefront, within reason my life has remained manageable.
I did not achieve this way of life on my own and had much help along the way. Over the past nearly two decades, I have had the good fortune to coach others and help them find the ability to make major change within themselves.
Do you want a new you in key areas of your life this year? Are you ready for change?
I am a change catalyst; please feel free to contact me in confidence.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
Self-Esteem Recovery
How Do I Recover Healthy Self-Esteem?
As a senior manager in the work place, self-esteem is often an issue with employees as they advance in their careers; particularly those new to management roles.
As a coach, this self-esteem is an issue I deal with with every client. I have never had an exception. It makes a guy wonder what happened along the trail, and also wonder what happened first, lousy self-esteem or addiction?
My personal esteem
The place I always start to look is at my own personal circumstance. Being a recovering addict and also a senior manager, I have had to gain some insight along the way.
I was brought up in what most would have thought to be a very comfortable home. I was healthy, reasonably bright and didn’t want for too much materially. Yet, for a reason I now understand, I never felt that I was good enough nor did I feel that I measured up to the expectation of “others”. If a reasonably sound upbringing left me like this, I can easily understand how those with a less fortunate childhood can have self-esteem issues.
7 tips for self-esteem building
Some basic how to “overcome” actions for me (and for many of my clients) included:
1. Use positive affirmations.
I went to, and I send clients to, the few people in life a person can really trust. Positive “I am……….” statements are obtained from these honest sources, such as “Keith is a truly caring person”. Four or five are lots. Put them on a recipe card and tape the card to your favorite mirror. Initially you won’t believe; do the work and you’ll know them to be true.
2. Spend quiet time everyday.
If you can learn how to shut your mind down, divorced of brain chatter, interesting things (positive) will be revealed to you.
3. Journal daily .
Get those good thoughts and negatives externalized. You’ll be shocked how they look on paper. Set some goals, dare to dream some good dreams.
4. Get outside help .
Everybody needs a mentor. You need a “trusted confidant” in your life, one who you respect and admire, who has walked the road and come out in sunshine; it may not necessarily be some one you like or know well..
5. Right size yourself.
Learn that you are not the center of the universe and in the big picture, not all that important. Find that proverbial power greater than you that you can build a trusting relationship with.
6. Give yourself credit.
Make sure you give yourself credit for all your successes, no matter how big or small. It is far too easy to focus on failures.
7. Set some small achievable goals.
Baby steps will carry you on a journey and the journey never starts without a first step. When you hit a goal, give yourself a small reward, maybe a small pat on the back.
Think about it. You were born with a purpose, and that purpose was positive. It still is. Each of us in our own small way have something to offer. If you learn to believe in you, achieve healthy self-respect, your world will be a much brighter place to live in and so will be the world of every person you have contact with!
As a senior manager in the work place, self-esteem is often an issue with employees as they advance in their careers; particularly those new to management roles.
As a coach, this self-esteem is an issue I deal with with every client. I have never had an exception. It makes a guy wonder what happened along the trail, and also wonder what happened first, lousy self-esteem or addiction?
My personal esteem
The place I always start to look is at my own personal circumstance. Being a recovering addict and also a senior manager, I have had to gain some insight along the way.
I was brought up in what most would have thought to be a very comfortable home. I was healthy, reasonably bright and didn’t want for too much materially. Yet, for a reason I now understand, I never felt that I was good enough nor did I feel that I measured up to the expectation of “others”. If a reasonably sound upbringing left me like this, I can easily understand how those with a less fortunate childhood can have self-esteem issues.
7 tips for self-esteem building
Some basic how to “overcome” actions for me (and for many of my clients) included:
1. Use positive affirmations.
I went to, and I send clients to, the few people in life a person can really trust. Positive “I am……….” statements are obtained from these honest sources, such as “Keith is a truly caring person”. Four or five are lots. Put them on a recipe card and tape the card to your favorite mirror. Initially you won’t believe; do the work and you’ll know them to be true.
2. Spend quiet time everyday.
If you can learn how to shut your mind down, divorced of brain chatter, interesting things (positive) will be revealed to you.
3. Journal daily .
Get those good thoughts and negatives externalized. You’ll be shocked how they look on paper. Set some goals, dare to dream some good dreams.
4. Get outside help .
Everybody needs a mentor. You need a “trusted confidant” in your life, one who you respect and admire, who has walked the road and come out in sunshine; it may not necessarily be some one you like or know well..
5. Right size yourself.
Learn that you are not the center of the universe and in the big picture, not all that important. Find that proverbial power greater than you that you can build a trusting relationship with.
6. Give yourself credit.
Make sure you give yourself credit for all your successes, no matter how big or small. It is far too easy to focus on failures.
7. Set some small achievable goals.
Baby steps will carry you on a journey and the journey never starts without a first step. When you hit a goal, give yourself a small reward, maybe a small pat on the back.
Think about it. You were born with a purpose, and that purpose was positive. It still is. Each of us in our own small way have something to offer. If you learn to believe in you, achieve healthy self-respect, your world will be a much brighter place to live in and so will be the world of every person you have contact with!
Monday, January 31, 2011
BECOMING SELF AWARE
BECOMING SELF AWARE
SELF AWARE
As I went through life, I lost a sense of who I was; I was not aware of certain behaviour patterns and thought patterns that were occurring in my life.
I certainly was aware of the patterns of others that I was in frequent contact with, and as we all know, sometimes the behaviours of those we know well become predictable to us.
However, I had lost the ability to predict my own behaviour and at 46, had no idea of who I was. A very sad thing that I think many, if honest, can relate to.
As a thought provoker, I offer you an “Idea Engineer” from my coaching mentor, Randin Brons.
It was only through coaching that I was lead to a place where I truly became self aware and understood to a large degree who I was and also why I got to the place I did.
Learn to be aware
"You can live a lifetime and, at the end of it, know more about other people than you know about yourself."
-- Beryl Markham
Who am I? To answer this, we must first learn to become more aware of ourselves. To be aware, we must STOP and PAY ATTENTION! We need to STOP and objectively watch ourselves in action.
We live most of our lives by habit. These habits keep us stuck in patterns that limit our experience of life. Once we detect a pattern we were previously unconscious of, we can choose differently, if we want. With awareness comes choice and with choice, we gain freedom.
"To be authentic is literally to be your own author ..., to discover your own native energies and desires, and then to find your own way of acting on them." -- Warren G. Bennis
"Self-knowledge is the great power by which we comprehend and control our lives." -- Vernon Howard”
Simply put, if you believe you may be in a “stuck pattern”, you likely are.
If you want “authenticity” back in you life, want to understand your habits and patterns consider coaching as a start point. You may well regain choice and freedom. Don’t continue on in life without really knowing you. There is a person there that you will truly learn to love! (www.hopeserenity.ca www.coached-to-success.com )
SELF AWARE
As I went through life, I lost a sense of who I was; I was not aware of certain behaviour patterns and thought patterns that were occurring in my life.
I certainly was aware of the patterns of others that I was in frequent contact with, and as we all know, sometimes the behaviours of those we know well become predictable to us.
However, I had lost the ability to predict my own behaviour and at 46, had no idea of who I was. A very sad thing that I think many, if honest, can relate to.
As a thought provoker, I offer you an “Idea Engineer” from my coaching mentor, Randin Brons.
It was only through coaching that I was lead to a place where I truly became self aware and understood to a large degree who I was and also why I got to the place I did.
Learn to be aware
"You can live a lifetime and, at the end of it, know more about other people than you know about yourself."
-- Beryl Markham
Who am I? To answer this, we must first learn to become more aware of ourselves. To be aware, we must STOP and PAY ATTENTION! We need to STOP and objectively watch ourselves in action.
We live most of our lives by habit. These habits keep us stuck in patterns that limit our experience of life. Once we detect a pattern we were previously unconscious of, we can choose differently, if we want. With awareness comes choice and with choice, we gain freedom.
"To be authentic is literally to be your own author ..., to discover your own native energies and desires, and then to find your own way of acting on them." -- Warren G. Bennis
"Self-knowledge is the great power by which we comprehend and control our lives." -- Vernon Howard”
Simply put, if you believe you may be in a “stuck pattern”, you likely are.
If you want “authenticity” back in you life, want to understand your habits and patterns consider coaching as a start point. You may well regain choice and freedom. Don’t continue on in life without really knowing you. There is a person there that you will truly learn to love! (www.hopeserenity.ca www.coached-to-success.com )
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
रेनेविंग थे MIND
DO YOU THINK THINGS OUT?
So, you want to transform your life from where it is today to something much different, something you know inside that life should be for you.
If that be the case, do you truly think things out?
I am not a follower of any religion but have read many “great” books including the Bible. There is an interesting passage in Romans 12:2 where St. Paul says “They are transformed by the renewing of their minds”. It is the concept of renewal and transformation that really interests me.
Want a better life then there are some things that must happen.
We have to change our current thinking to thinking that reflects improved mental hygiene. We must build a new way of looking at things. In many ways we may be living an “artificial” life, we must be prepared to get real. We must learn what “normal” and “reality” really are. We must accept truths and find the courage to change.
So, I hope these thoughts give you reason to think, and you take the time to really think things out.
You can transform your life from where you are to a reality that is abundant. I have walked that path and did not walk it alone.
I don’t pretend to have all the answers. If this article causes you to think, and you’d like to chat and learn more, let’s talk. Maybe talking will help you think things out. (www.coached-to-success.com or www.hopeserenity.ca )
So, you want to transform your life from where it is today to something much different, something you know inside that life should be for you.
If that be the case, do you truly think things out?
I am not a follower of any religion but have read many “great” books including the Bible. There is an interesting passage in Romans 12:2 where St. Paul says “They are transformed by the renewing of their minds”. It is the concept of renewal and transformation that really interests me.
Want a better life then there are some things that must happen.
We have to change our current thinking to thinking that reflects improved mental hygiene. We must build a new way of looking at things. In many ways we may be living an “artificial” life, we must be prepared to get real. We must learn what “normal” and “reality” really are. We must accept truths and find the courage to change.
So, I hope these thoughts give you reason to think, and you take the time to really think things out.
You can transform your life from where you are to a reality that is abundant. I have walked that path and did not walk it alone.
I don’t pretend to have all the answers. If this article causes you to think, and you’d like to chat and learn more, let’s talk. Maybe talking will help you think things out. (www.coached-to-success.com or www.hopeserenity.ca )
Friday, January 21, 2011
FISHING POLE
FISHING POLE
FISHING POLE-FOOD FOR LIFE
Yesterday, I had posted something that asked for input and answers to a couple of specific questions. I am still looking for more input, and thanks to those of you who did respond.
I got one great reminder and I have to remember it, and it may be a great reminder for you to.
I love to help people. I can be guilty at times of trying to “fix” their surface problem. This depends on the “role” I am playing in the person’s life. The great reminder was a parable.
If a person is hungry, give them a fish and they will be fed today. Give them a fishing rod and they will be fed for life. (Not an exact quote for those who are perfectionists)
This, in its way, talks about holistic change.
I was given some fish way back when, and I was OK for the short hall. Eventually someone took the time to understand me, show me how to construct and use a fishing rod, and now, when I take action, I am no longer hungry.
I guess I want to be in the fishing pole business. I hate giving away fish over and over!
(www.hopeserenity.ca) (www.coached-to-success.com) Need a fishing pole?
FISHING POLE-FOOD FOR LIFE
Yesterday, I had posted something that asked for input and answers to a couple of specific questions. I am still looking for more input, and thanks to those of you who did respond.
I got one great reminder and I have to remember it, and it may be a great reminder for you to.
I love to help people. I can be guilty at times of trying to “fix” their surface problem. This depends on the “role” I am playing in the person’s life. The great reminder was a parable.
If a person is hungry, give them a fish and they will be fed today. Give them a fishing rod and they will be fed for life. (Not an exact quote for those who are perfectionists)
This, in its way, talks about holistic change.
I was given some fish way back when, and I was OK for the short hall. Eventually someone took the time to understand me, show me how to construct and use a fishing rod, and now, when I take action, I am no longer hungry.
I guess I want to be in the fishing pole business. I hate giving away fish over and over!
(www.hopeserenity.ca) (www.coached-to-success.com) Need a fishing pole?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
लाइफ ओं थे मेर्री-गो-ROUND
LIFE ON THE MERRY-GO-ROUND
I’m generally not a computer pack rat, and tend to keep my inbox, sent and so on with little stuff in them. That being said, every now and again I hold on to something which I’ve read and intuitively know it is going to be very real on an upcoming day.
Below is something I received back in very early September. I was aware that it was there, and in talking with a couple of clients today, it reminded me to look back and share.
Once again the passage happens to be from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and dates back to the late 1930’s, but funny, it is as true today as it was back then.
For those many, who do not have a problem with drinking, substitute any issue you want following the words “most basic problem: my ____________ and myself.
“Merry-go-round”
“I began to feel like a clown juggling too many balls.
Each ball represented a problem I was keeping up in the air.
My arms were weary and I knew I couldn't keep on much longer, but I was not about to give up. My pride and ego wouldn't let me.
Bosses, judges, co-workers, lawyers, car notes, bar tabs, loan sharks, utility payments, landlords, my girlfriend, people I had double-crossed --
I looked to all these as the source of my problems, while overlooking the most basic problem: my drinking and myself.
I'd known for a long time that I desperately wanted off this merry-go-round, but I had no idea how to do it.” - Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 506
I do well remember when personally, and certainly talked with a couple of people today, who could have had the same quote, give or take a word or two! Can you relate to the passage?
If you can relate, want to get off the “Merry-go-round” that is your life today, but don’t know how, please get in touch. I have been fortunate to work with hundreds of others who after a conversation have found some answers to the question how- and there is no one size fits all. Please feel free to get in touch here or through khbray@hopeserenity.ca. It may just be time you spend that helps you to know how to get off your merry-go-round permanently. (On www.coached-to-success.com or www.hopeserenity.ca)
I’m generally not a computer pack rat, and tend to keep my inbox, sent and so on with little stuff in them. That being said, every now and again I hold on to something which I’ve read and intuitively know it is going to be very real on an upcoming day.
Below is something I received back in very early September. I was aware that it was there, and in talking with a couple of clients today, it reminded me to look back and share.
Once again the passage happens to be from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and dates back to the late 1930’s, but funny, it is as true today as it was back then.
For those many, who do not have a problem with drinking, substitute any issue you want following the words “most basic problem: my ____________ and myself.
“Merry-go-round”
“I began to feel like a clown juggling too many balls.
Each ball represented a problem I was keeping up in the air.
My arms were weary and I knew I couldn't keep on much longer, but I was not about to give up. My pride and ego wouldn't let me.
Bosses, judges, co-workers, lawyers, car notes, bar tabs, loan sharks, utility payments, landlords, my girlfriend, people I had double-crossed --
I looked to all these as the source of my problems, while overlooking the most basic problem: my drinking and myself.
I'd known for a long time that I desperately wanted off this merry-go-round, but I had no idea how to do it.” - Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 506
I do well remember when personally, and certainly talked with a couple of people today, who could have had the same quote, give or take a word or two! Can you relate to the passage?
If you can relate, want to get off the “Merry-go-round” that is your life today, but don’t know how, please get in touch. I have been fortunate to work with hundreds of others who after a conversation have found some answers to the question how- and there is no one size fits all. Please feel free to get in touch here or through khbray@hopeserenity.ca. It may just be time you spend that helps you to know how to get off your merry-go-round permanently. (On www.coached-to-success.com or www.hopeserenity.ca)
LIFE ON THE MERRY-GO-ROUND
LIFE ON THE MERRY-GO-ROUND
LIFE ON THE MERRY-GO-ROUND
I’m generally not a computer pack rat, and tend to keep my inbox, sent and so on with little stuff in them. That being said, every now and again I hold on to something which I’ve read and intuitively know it is going to be very real on an upcoming day.
Below is something I received back in very early September. I was aware that it was there, and in talking with a couple of clients today, it reminded me to look back and share.
Once again the passage happens to be from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and dates back to the late 1930’s, but funny, it is as true today as it was back then.
For those many, who do not have a problem with drinking, substitute any issue you want following the words “most basic problem: my ____________ and myself.
“Merry-go-round”
“I began to feel like a clown juggling too many balls.
Each ball represented a problem I was keeping up in the air.
My arms were weary and I knew I couldn't keep on much longer, but I was not about to give up. My pride and ego wouldn't let me.
Bosses, judges, co-workers, lawyers, car notes, bar tabs, loan sharks, utility payments, landlords, my girlfriend, people I had double-crossed --
I looked to all these as the source of my problems, while overlooking the most basic problem: my drinking and myself.
I'd known for a long time that I desperately wanted off this merry-go-round, but I had no idea how to do it.” - Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 506
I do well remember when personally, and certainly talked with a couple of people today, who could have had the same quote, give or take a word or two! Can you relate to the passage?
If you can relate, want to get off the “Merry-go-round” that is your life today, but don’t know how, please get in touch. I have been fortunate to work with hundreds of others who after a conversation have found some answers to the question how- and there is no one size fits all. Please feel free to get in touch here or through khbray@hopeserenity.ca. It may just be time you spend that helps you to know how to get off your merry-go-round permanently. (On www.coached-to-success.com or www.hopeserenity.ca)
LIFE ON THE MERRY-GO-ROUND
I’m generally not a computer pack rat, and tend to keep my inbox, sent and so on with little stuff in them. That being said, every now and again I hold on to something which I’ve read and intuitively know it is going to be very real on an upcoming day.
Below is something I received back in very early September. I was aware that it was there, and in talking with a couple of clients today, it reminded me to look back and share.
Once again the passage happens to be from the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous and dates back to the late 1930’s, but funny, it is as true today as it was back then.
For those many, who do not have a problem with drinking, substitute any issue you want following the words “most basic problem: my ____________ and myself.
“Merry-go-round”
“I began to feel like a clown juggling too many balls.
Each ball represented a problem I was keeping up in the air.
My arms were weary and I knew I couldn't keep on much longer, but I was not about to give up. My pride and ego wouldn't let me.
Bosses, judges, co-workers, lawyers, car notes, bar tabs, loan sharks, utility payments, landlords, my girlfriend, people I had double-crossed --
I looked to all these as the source of my problems, while overlooking the most basic problem: my drinking and myself.
I'd known for a long time that I desperately wanted off this merry-go-round, but I had no idea how to do it.” - Alcoholics Anonymous, p. 506
I do well remember when personally, and certainly talked with a couple of people today, who could have had the same quote, give or take a word or two! Can you relate to the passage?
If you can relate, want to get off the “Merry-go-round” that is your life today, but don’t know how, please get in touch. I have been fortunate to work with hundreds of others who after a conversation have found some answers to the question how- and there is no one size fits all. Please feel free to get in touch here or through khbray@hopeserenity.ca. It may just be time you spend that helps you to know how to get off your merry-go-round permanently. (On www.coached-to-success.com or www.hopeserenity.ca)
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
इनपुट सौघ्त,Questions
SIMPLE QUESTIONS-WOULD APPRECIATE RESPONSES
You are a person who uses the internet for a purpose. You are at this sight and reading this.
I am sincerely seeking answers to a couple of questions because I honestly don’t have any where near all the answers. Your honest response would be appreciated and I promise; you won’t be put on any lists. Your responses will help change lives positively and will not be shared but used to enhance my knowledge.
1. Do you feel that you have a life that you are content with?
2. Do you know what a “happy” life would look like or feel like?
3. If NO to either, honestly, what holds you back from change?
I am trying to do a better job at reaching people who want to change. If you can afford the time, I’d love to know in as much detail as you care to give:
1. Have you experienced coaching? If yes what was the outcome?
2. What do you think life coaching is?
3. What would you need to know to even talk with a life coach?
Appreciate all the input I can get to better target my efforts and serve others. Answers will be picked up when you comment here or they can be emailed to khbray@hopeserenity.ca. Thanks in advance, you’ve helped somebody today!
You are a person who uses the internet for a purpose. You are at this sight and reading this.
I am sincerely seeking answers to a couple of questions because I honestly don’t have any where near all the answers. Your honest response would be appreciated and I promise; you won’t be put on any lists. Your responses will help change lives positively and will not be shared but used to enhance my knowledge.
1. Do you feel that you have a life that you are content with?
2. Do you know what a “happy” life would look like or feel like?
3. If NO to either, honestly, what holds you back from change?
I am trying to do a better job at reaching people who want to change. If you can afford the time, I’d love to know in as much detail as you care to give:
1. Have you experienced coaching? If yes what was the outcome?
2. What do you think life coaching is?
3. What would you need to know to even talk with a life coach?
Appreciate all the input I can get to better target my efforts and serve others. Answers will be picked up when you comment here or they can be emailed to khbray@hopeserenity.ca. Thanks in advance, you’ve helped somebody today!
Monday, January 17, 2011
HOLISTIC?/SPIRITUAL? WHOA
HOLISTIC?/SPIRITUAL? WHOA
HOLISTIC? /SPIRITUAL? WHOA
I love to think that the huge positive changes in my life over the past 16 years or so have been holistic and as part of this, there has been a “spiritual awakening” (like brought out of a spiritual coma) as a part of what has happened.
Let’s go to Webster’s for a couple of accepted definitions.
Holistic: treatment of the whole organism; not just the symptoms of a disease.
Spiritual: relating to or concerned with the soul or spirit (opp; TEMPORAL)
In working with others that want to make big changes in their lives, I believe in a holistic approach that does involve treating not just the symptoms. If bad self –esteem, poor relationships, addictions, poor career results, a need to control, and so on are the visible, what is behind them? You can fix what you can see, but the problems likely will reoccur if you don’t address the much deeper cause.
A part of each and everyone one of us is a soul or spirit. When many see the word “spiritual” they immediately relate to thoughts of religion and in many cases, a “God” thing they have turned off years ago for whatever reason. A part of a holistic approach is dealing with “spiritual”, but as defined above. There is no conflict with a person’s lack of religious beliefs or with any religious beliefs they may hold.
In working with people to help them get out of a rut and move forward, it is important that a person recognize that feeling or voice inside that has made them feel uncomfortable at times or really question their own behaviour. This is “spiritual” in nature. What is that “quiet still voice” inside that questions you?
To live a life that is in keeping with what you really want for yourself, you must develop new life skills and a “toolbox” of useful habits and behaviours that allow you to progress. These are “learned”. Not any differently than how any high performer approaches improvement.
So what is the point of all this?
My experience tells me that a holistic approach to life change (recovery, transformation) must deal with the whole you and contain a “spiritual” element. To succeed, you must find a new “balance” in your life. To desire change, what you are doing now is obviously not working.
Most I work with are not alcoholics, yet I do draw on a lot of the things that 12 step programmes offer. They gave me a part of the solution to my own issues. Here is a quote that may fit you, put anything you want in where AA is mentioned.
“An AA member needs more than physical capabilities; he needs the use of his full faculties as a human being to hear the message, to think about it, to review the effects of the past to realize, to admit, and to accept.
These processes are activities of the mind, which is part of the spirit.” - Came To Believe . . ., p. 3
Does this article create some questions in you? Do you want to make changes that you have failed to do or procrastinate about? Do you need to develop new tools in your “life skills” toolbox? Do you want success? Do you want to talk about “holistic” and/or “spiritual”?
Let’s have a no obligation chat about holistic and spiritual, and see if you can find a path that suits you. (www.coached-to-success.com; www.hopeserenity.ca)
HOLISTIC? /SPIRITUAL? WHOA
I love to think that the huge positive changes in my life over the past 16 years or so have been holistic and as part of this, there has been a “spiritual awakening” (like brought out of a spiritual coma) as a part of what has happened.
Let’s go to Webster’s for a couple of accepted definitions.
Holistic: treatment of the whole organism; not just the symptoms of a disease.
Spiritual: relating to or concerned with the soul or spirit (opp; TEMPORAL)
In working with others that want to make big changes in their lives, I believe in a holistic approach that does involve treating not just the symptoms. If bad self –esteem, poor relationships, addictions, poor career results, a need to control, and so on are the visible, what is behind them? You can fix what you can see, but the problems likely will reoccur if you don’t address the much deeper cause.
A part of each and everyone one of us is a soul or spirit. When many see the word “spiritual” they immediately relate to thoughts of religion and in many cases, a “God” thing they have turned off years ago for whatever reason. A part of a holistic approach is dealing with “spiritual”, but as defined above. There is no conflict with a person’s lack of religious beliefs or with any religious beliefs they may hold.
In working with people to help them get out of a rut and move forward, it is important that a person recognize that feeling or voice inside that has made them feel uncomfortable at times or really question their own behaviour. This is “spiritual” in nature. What is that “quiet still voice” inside that questions you?
To live a life that is in keeping with what you really want for yourself, you must develop new life skills and a “toolbox” of useful habits and behaviours that allow you to progress. These are “learned”. Not any differently than how any high performer approaches improvement.
So what is the point of all this?
My experience tells me that a holistic approach to life change (recovery, transformation) must deal with the whole you and contain a “spiritual” element. To succeed, you must find a new “balance” in your life. To desire change, what you are doing now is obviously not working.
Most I work with are not alcoholics, yet I do draw on a lot of the things that 12 step programmes offer. They gave me a part of the solution to my own issues. Here is a quote that may fit you, put anything you want in where AA is mentioned.
“An AA member needs more than physical capabilities; he needs the use of his full faculties as a human being to hear the message, to think about it, to review the effects of the past to realize, to admit, and to accept.
These processes are activities of the mind, which is part of the spirit.” - Came To Believe . . ., p. 3
Does this article create some questions in you? Do you want to make changes that you have failed to do or procrastinate about? Do you need to develop new tools in your “life skills” toolbox? Do you want success? Do you want to talk about “holistic” and/or “spiritual”?
Let’s have a no obligation chat about holistic and spiritual, and see if you can find a path that suits you. (www.coached-to-success.com; www.hopeserenity.ca)
Friday, January 14, 2011
सत्य पोसितिवे-टिप्स तो रेदुचे Stress
Stay Positive/Reduce Stress
Sorry for this lead in to be self-serving, but if I can’t promote myself a bit for the right reasons, then what can I promote? Many will get help from the information.
For a number of years I have been coaching individuals. I blog on a regular basis with a primary purpose of offering ideas and thoughts to help people reach the personal goals they want in their lives. I have put a lot of thought and writing against “addictions”, an area I love to work in. My work and writings have been found on www.hopeserenity.ca - an “addictions” focused web site.
Most of the clients I coach are not addicts, but people stuck in ruts that need a push to get out of them. I am please that I have a new site up, www.coached-to-success.com, which is focused entirely on life skills; the skills you need to help you get out of a rut. I help people to build a “living tool” box so that they are better equipped to deal with life. For those that are going to knock, I charge on what a person can afford and oft times that is nothing!
I will be posting a series of articles on www.coached-to-success.com not specifically addiction related as well as e-books free to all, and all geared to life skills and “how to” in dealing with life on life’s terms. The following is the first of a series:
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
People are constantly working to make real improvements in the world. New waves of communication and better technology have lead to increased life spans and seemingly better lives.
While there are many positives when it comes to modern life, the downside is that sometimes people try to cram too many things into one day. In this fast paced world, stress may get the better of you and you might have trouble looking on the bright side.
Scheduling Downtime
You may feel like you should always be doing something productive. However, taking care of yourself is ultimately the most productive thing you can do. When you've given yourself proper rest and permission to do whatever you want once in awhile, you'll be better able to focus great efforts on the other things in your life that matter.
People that schedule downtime for themselves clearly have lower stress levels. Allow yourself a proper amount of time for rest. Get 6-8 hours of sleep at night and avoid the temptation to stay up doing something else with that time. You should also allow yourself a portion of the day where you get to do whatever you want. Even when time is short, let yourself enjoy a few minutes of total relaxation sometime during the day to rejuvenate.
Scheduling proper downtime also gives you time for reflection. When you reflect on your life, you can concentrate on the meaning of it all. You'll be more likely to truly enjoy your journey. It's so easy to let life pass you by if you don't take some time to reflect.
1
Concentrating On Attitude
Thinking positively is something you can choose to do regardless of your circumstances in life. Everyone struggles with it from time to time, and you owe it to yourself to focus on having a positive attitude.
A positive attitude is the foundation for a good life. Your outlook will allow you to enjoy all the craziness and will equip you to deal with the stressful parts. When negative thinking creeps up, just think about the things that are going right. You can also visualize how it'll feel when things turn around for the better.
Keeping Up
In a fast paced life, you can definitely take certain steps to slow your life down, but you can also work on being able to keep up!
Make a list of the areas where you're having trouble balancing. Brainstorm actions that you can take to improve your ability to cope.
For example, if you struggle to complete your tasks at work, see what you can do to fix this challenge. Maybe you can do one of your projects more efficiently. Perhaps you can rearrange your schedule to take care of the more stressful tasks first, leaving the least stressful for the end of the day when you're ready to unwind.
Dealing with Stress
Stress in your day-to-day life is nearly unavoidable. However, it's how you deal with the stress that counts. It's important for you to not let it build up, or it could lead to greater issues in the long run.
Do what you can to relieve your stress in a healthy way. Work on relaxation and breathing techniques. If you're more socially inclined, venting to a close friend can help you deal with stress. As long as you're doing something to relieve your stress, you'll be able to jump back into your faced paced life with a positive attitude.
Just because the world we live in is hectic, it doesn't mean that your life needs to be that way also. When you use these tips, you'll find it a lot easier to remain positive and enjoy a stress-free life.
Sorry for this lead in to be self-serving, but if I can’t promote myself a bit for the right reasons, then what can I promote? Many will get help from the information.
For a number of years I have been coaching individuals. I blog on a regular basis with a primary purpose of offering ideas and thoughts to help people reach the personal goals they want in their lives. I have put a lot of thought and writing against “addictions”, an area I love to work in. My work and writings have been found on www.hopeserenity.ca - an “addictions” focused web site.
Most of the clients I coach are not addicts, but people stuck in ruts that need a push to get out of them. I am please that I have a new site up, www.coached-to-success.com, which is focused entirely on life skills; the skills you need to help you get out of a rut. I help people to build a “living tool” box so that they are better equipped to deal with life. For those that are going to knock, I charge on what a person can afford and oft times that is nothing!
I will be posting a series of articles on www.coached-to-success.com not specifically addiction related as well as e-books free to all, and all geared to life skills and “how to” in dealing with life on life’s terms. The following is the first of a series:
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
People are constantly working to make real improvements in the world. New waves of communication and better technology have lead to increased life spans and seemingly better lives.
While there are many positives when it comes to modern life, the downside is that sometimes people try to cram too many things into one day. In this fast paced world, stress may get the better of you and you might have trouble looking on the bright side.
Scheduling Downtime
You may feel like you should always be doing something productive. However, taking care of yourself is ultimately the most productive thing you can do. When you've given yourself proper rest and permission to do whatever you want once in awhile, you'll be better able to focus great efforts on the other things in your life that matter.
People that schedule downtime for themselves clearly have lower stress levels. Allow yourself a proper amount of time for rest. Get 6-8 hours of sleep at night and avoid the temptation to stay up doing something else with that time. You should also allow yourself a portion of the day where you get to do whatever you want. Even when time is short, let yourself enjoy a few minutes of total relaxation sometime during the day to rejuvenate.
Scheduling proper downtime also gives you time for reflection. When you reflect on your life, you can concentrate on the meaning of it all. You'll be more likely to truly enjoy your journey. It's so easy to let life pass you by if you don't take some time to reflect.
1
Concentrating On Attitude
Thinking positively is something you can choose to do regardless of your circumstances in life. Everyone struggles with it from time to time, and you owe it to yourself to focus on having a positive attitude.
A positive attitude is the foundation for a good life. Your outlook will allow you to enjoy all the craziness and will equip you to deal with the stressful parts. When negative thinking creeps up, just think about the things that are going right. You can also visualize how it'll feel when things turn around for the better.
Keeping Up
In a fast paced life, you can definitely take certain steps to slow your life down, but you can also work on being able to keep up!
Make a list of the areas where you're having trouble balancing. Brainstorm actions that you can take to improve your ability to cope.
For example, if you struggle to complete your tasks at work, see what you can do to fix this challenge. Maybe you can do one of your projects more efficiently. Perhaps you can rearrange your schedule to take care of the more stressful tasks first, leaving the least stressful for the end of the day when you're ready to unwind.
Dealing with Stress
Stress in your day-to-day life is nearly unavoidable. However, it's how you deal with the stress that counts. It's important for you to not let it build up, or it could lead to greater issues in the long run.
Do what you can to relieve your stress in a healthy way. Work on relaxation and breathing techniques. If you're more socially inclined, venting to a close friend can help you deal with stress. As long as you're doing something to relieve your stress, you'll be able to jump back into your faced paced life with a positive attitude.
Just because the world we live in is hectic, it doesn't mean that your life needs to be that way also. When you use these tips, you'll find it a lot easier to remain positive and enjoy a stress-free life.
STAY POSITIVE/REDUCE STRESS
STAY POSITIVE/REDUCE STRESS
Stay Positive/Reduce Stress
Sorry for this lead in to be self-serving, but if I can’t promote myself a bit for the right reasons, then what can I promote? Many will get help from the information.
For a number of years I have been coaching individuals. I blog on a regular basis with a primary purpose of offering ideas and thoughts to help people reach the personal goals they want in their lives. I have put a lot of thought and writing against “addictions”, an area I love to work in. My work and writings have been found on www.hopeserenity.ca - an “addictions” focused web site.
Most of the clients I coach are not addicts, but people stuck in ruts that need a push to get out of them. I am please that I have a new site up, www.coached-to-success.com, which is focused entirely on life skills; the skills you need to help you get out of a rut. I help people to build a “living tool” box so that they are better equipped to deal with life. For those that are going to knock, I charge on what a person can afford and oft times that is nothing!
I will be posting a series of articles on www.coached-to-success.com not specifically addiction related as well as e-books free to all, and all geared to life skills and “how to” in dealing with life on life’s terms. The following is the first of a series:
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
People are constantly working to make real improvements in the world. New waves of communication and better technology have lead to increased life spans and seemingly better lives.
While there are many positives when it comes to modern life, the downside is that sometimes people try to cram too many things into one day. In this fast paced world, stress may get the better of you and you might have trouble looking on the bright side.
Scheduling Downtime
You may feel like you should always be doing something productive. However, taking care of yourself is ultimately the most productive thing you can do. When you've given yourself proper rest and permission to do whatever you want once in awhile, you'll be better able to focus great efforts on the other things in your life that matter.
People that schedule downtime for themselves clearly have lower stress levels. Allow yourself a proper amount of time for rest. Get 6-8 hours of sleep at night and avoid the temptation to stay up doing something else with that time. You should also allow yourself a portion of the day where you get to do whatever you want. Even when time is short, let yourself enjoy a few minutes of total relaxation sometime during the day to rejuvenate.
Scheduling proper downtime also gives you time for reflection. When you reflect on your life, you can concentrate on the meaning of it all. You'll be more likely to truly enjoy your journey. It's so easy to let life pass you by if you don't take some time to reflect.
1
Concentrating On Attitude
Thinking positively is something you can choose to do regardless of your circumstances in life. Everyone struggles with it from time to time, and you owe it to yourself to focus on having a positive attitude.
A positive attitude is the foundation for a good life. Your outlook will allow you to enjoy all the craziness and will equip you to deal with the stressful parts. When negative thinking creeps up, just think about the things that are going right. You can also visualize how it'll feel when things turn around for the better.
Keeping Up
In a fast paced life, you can definitely take certain steps to slow your life down, but you can also work on being able to keep up!
Make a list of the areas where you're having trouble balancing. Brainstorm actions that you can take to improve your ability to cope.
For example, if you struggle to complete your tasks at work, see what you can do to fix this challenge. Maybe you can do one of your projects more efficiently. Perhaps you can rearrange your schedule to take care of the more stressful tasks first, leaving the least stressful for the end of the day when you're ready to unwind.
Dealing with Stress
Stress in your day-to-day life is nearly unavoidable. However, it's how you deal with the stress that counts. It's important for you to not let it build up, or it could lead to greater issues in the long run.
Do what you can to relieve your stress in a healthy way. Work on relaxation and breathing techniques. If you're more socially inclined, venting to a close friend can help you deal with stress. As long as you're doing something to relieve your stress, you'll be able to jump back into your faced paced life with a positive attitude.
Just because the world we live in is hectic, it doesn't mean that your life needs to be that way also. When you use these tips, you'll find it a lot easier to remain positive and enjoy a stress-free life.
Stay Positive/Reduce Stress
Sorry for this lead in to be self-serving, but if I can’t promote myself a bit for the right reasons, then what can I promote? Many will get help from the information.
For a number of years I have been coaching individuals. I blog on a regular basis with a primary purpose of offering ideas and thoughts to help people reach the personal goals they want in their lives. I have put a lot of thought and writing against “addictions”, an area I love to work in. My work and writings have been found on www.hopeserenity.ca - an “addictions” focused web site.
Most of the clients I coach are not addicts, but people stuck in ruts that need a push to get out of them. I am please that I have a new site up, www.coached-to-success.com, which is focused entirely on life skills; the skills you need to help you get out of a rut. I help people to build a “living tool” box so that they are better equipped to deal with life. For those that are going to knock, I charge on what a person can afford and oft times that is nothing!
I will be posting a series of articles on www.coached-to-success.com not specifically addiction related as well as e-books free to all, and all geared to life skills and “how to” in dealing with life on life’s terms. The following is the first of a series:
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
Staying Positive and Reducing Stress in a Fast Paced World
People are constantly working to make real improvements in the world. New waves of communication and better technology have lead to increased life spans and seemingly better lives.
While there are many positives when it comes to modern life, the downside is that sometimes people try to cram too many things into one day. In this fast paced world, stress may get the better of you and you might have trouble looking on the bright side.
Scheduling Downtime
You may feel like you should always be doing something productive. However, taking care of yourself is ultimately the most productive thing you can do. When you've given yourself proper rest and permission to do whatever you want once in awhile, you'll be better able to focus great efforts on the other things in your life that matter.
People that schedule downtime for themselves clearly have lower stress levels. Allow yourself a proper amount of time for rest. Get 6-8 hours of sleep at night and avoid the temptation to stay up doing something else with that time. You should also allow yourself a portion of the day where you get to do whatever you want. Even when time is short, let yourself enjoy a few minutes of total relaxation sometime during the day to rejuvenate.
Scheduling proper downtime also gives you time for reflection. When you reflect on your life, you can concentrate on the meaning of it all. You'll be more likely to truly enjoy your journey. It's so easy to let life pass you by if you don't take some time to reflect.
1
Concentrating On Attitude
Thinking positively is something you can choose to do regardless of your circumstances in life. Everyone struggles with it from time to time, and you owe it to yourself to focus on having a positive attitude.
A positive attitude is the foundation for a good life. Your outlook will allow you to enjoy all the craziness and will equip you to deal with the stressful parts. When negative thinking creeps up, just think about the things that are going right. You can also visualize how it'll feel when things turn around for the better.
Keeping Up
In a fast paced life, you can definitely take certain steps to slow your life down, but you can also work on being able to keep up!
Make a list of the areas where you're having trouble balancing. Brainstorm actions that you can take to improve your ability to cope.
For example, if you struggle to complete your tasks at work, see what you can do to fix this challenge. Maybe you can do one of your projects more efficiently. Perhaps you can rearrange your schedule to take care of the more stressful tasks first, leaving the least stressful for the end of the day when you're ready to unwind.
Dealing with Stress
Stress in your day-to-day life is nearly unavoidable. However, it's how you deal with the stress that counts. It's important for you to not let it build up, or it could lead to greater issues in the long run.
Do what you can to relieve your stress in a healthy way. Work on relaxation and breathing techniques. If you're more socially inclined, venting to a close friend can help you deal with stress. As long as you're doing something to relieve your stress, you'll be able to jump back into your faced paced life with a positive attitude.
Just because the world we live in is hectic, it doesn't mean that your life needs to be that way also. When you use these tips, you'll find it a lot easier to remain positive and enjoy a stress-free life.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
गर्बगे रेमोवल-अरे यू रेअद्य?
GARBAGE REMOVAL-READY?
There are so many that balk along the trail at the word GOD. I was one of them because of experiences I had at the hands of people within a structured religion. As have many before me, I did have to find a Higher Power, something greater than the conscious me to get holistic recovery.
Today I can fully appreciate how spiritually bankrupt I was back in those dark days of 1994. Today I walk in the light, not of a higher power that I found in church, but one I found in me and you and all around me. I believe things do not happen by accident.
I think it is great when people find “a religion” that works for them. I’ve got Good Orderly Direction (GOD) from a higher power that works for me and for that I am grateful. When I am open, I am freely given good orderly direction in measures I had not experienced before!
Why this explanation? In my next big step, I was asked to have faith; something that was very new to me.
Were entirely ready to have god remove all these defects of character.-Step6/12 Steps
On first blush, this appeared to be a no brainer. Upon reflection, there is more to this than at first appeared.
By this stage of the journey, I had found a higher power that I could feel and even trust some. I had not had a drink or used in a while, and I had no cravings to do so. This had started to happen when I decided to turn things over.
In having god remove all my defects of character, would this not make me perfect? And I always tongue in cheek remember what happened to the only perfect person I had read about.
Upon reflection, I realized that there were none of the defects that had been identified in my recent recovery work that I would mind having removed. I could well live without them. If it were my higher powers will for me, or if I could abdicate from self- will, then that would be great. My trust level and faith were at a point I was ready. Nothing in the step says that my higher power would wave a wand and poof, all defects would be gone. Having things entirely removed is a perfect ideal. From what I had witnessed, it likely would not come to be 100%, but if it did, I was ready.
I was one of the fortunate ones. I had no defects I would not be prepared to give up. Some I know have had things they swore they would NEVER give up. Funny, in hanging on to their will so desperately, they never seemed to get the life they truly wanted.
Readiness, in practical terms, has come in stages. As the journey progresses and my conscious contact with my higher power continues to deepen and evolve, I become ready for things to change in different ways. It truly is work in progress.
As I “trudge” along this journey, I have to be conscious every day that the defects of character that are a part of me remain in some ways with me. Daily I have to be conscious. Daily I ask for them to be removed. But now I am getting ahead of myself!
For those who may be considering making huge change in their lives, always be conscious that change is a process and in my experience you have to do A before you do B, and one step builds on the success of what you have done on your trek. You have to have some faith and be well aware of defects before you can ask for them to be minimized or removed. Doing it half ass will give you half ass results! (khbray@hopesernity.ca ; www.hopeserenity.ca)
There are so many that balk along the trail at the word GOD. I was one of them because of experiences I had at the hands of people within a structured religion. As have many before me, I did have to find a Higher Power, something greater than the conscious me to get holistic recovery.
Today I can fully appreciate how spiritually bankrupt I was back in those dark days of 1994. Today I walk in the light, not of a higher power that I found in church, but one I found in me and you and all around me. I believe things do not happen by accident.
I think it is great when people find “a religion” that works for them. I’ve got Good Orderly Direction (GOD) from a higher power that works for me and for that I am grateful. When I am open, I am freely given good orderly direction in measures I had not experienced before!
Why this explanation? In my next big step, I was asked to have faith; something that was very new to me.
Were entirely ready to have god remove all these defects of character.-Step6/12 Steps
On first blush, this appeared to be a no brainer. Upon reflection, there is more to this than at first appeared.
By this stage of the journey, I had found a higher power that I could feel and even trust some. I had not had a drink or used in a while, and I had no cravings to do so. This had started to happen when I decided to turn things over.
In having god remove all my defects of character, would this not make me perfect? And I always tongue in cheek remember what happened to the only perfect person I had read about.
Upon reflection, I realized that there were none of the defects that had been identified in my recent recovery work that I would mind having removed. I could well live without them. If it were my higher powers will for me, or if I could abdicate from self- will, then that would be great. My trust level and faith were at a point I was ready. Nothing in the step says that my higher power would wave a wand and poof, all defects would be gone. Having things entirely removed is a perfect ideal. From what I had witnessed, it likely would not come to be 100%, but if it did, I was ready.
I was one of the fortunate ones. I had no defects I would not be prepared to give up. Some I know have had things they swore they would NEVER give up. Funny, in hanging on to their will so desperately, they never seemed to get the life they truly wanted.
Readiness, in practical terms, has come in stages. As the journey progresses and my conscious contact with my higher power continues to deepen and evolve, I become ready for things to change in different ways. It truly is work in progress.
As I “trudge” along this journey, I have to be conscious every day that the defects of character that are a part of me remain in some ways with me. Daily I have to be conscious. Daily I ask for them to be removed. But now I am getting ahead of myself!
For those who may be considering making huge change in their lives, always be conscious that change is a process and in my experience you have to do A before you do B, and one step builds on the success of what you have done on your trek. You have to have some faith and be well aware of defects before you can ask for them to be minimized or removed. Doing it half ass will give you half ass results! (khbray@hopesernity.ca ; www.hopeserenity.ca)
GARBGE REMOVAL-ARE YOU READY?
GARBGE REMOVAL-ARE YOU READY?
GARBAGE REMOVAL-READY?
There are so many that balk along the trail at the word GOD. I was one of them because of experiences I had at the hands of people within a structured religion. As have many before me, I did have to find a Higher Power, something greater than the conscious me to get holistic recovery.
Today I can fully appreciate how spiritually bankrupt I was back in those dark days of 1994. Today I walk in the light, not of a higher power that I found in church, but one I found in me and you and all around me. I believe things do not happen by accident.
I think it is great when people find “a religion” that works for them. I’ve got Good Orderly Direction (GOD) from a higher power that works for me and for that I am grateful. When I am open, I am freely given good orderly direction in measures I had not experienced before!
Why this explanation? In my next big step, I was asked to have faith; something that was very new to me.
Were entirely ready to have god remove all these defects of character.-Step6/12 Steps
On first blush, this appeared to be a no brainer. Upon reflection, there is more to this than at first appeared.
By this stage of the journey, I had found a higher power that I could feel and even trust some. I had not had a drink or used in a while, and I had no cravings to do so. This had started to happen when I decided to turn things over.
In having god remove all my defects of character, would this not make me perfect? And I always tongue in cheek remember what happened to the only perfect person I had read about.
Upon reflection, I realized that there were none of the defects that had been identified in my recent recovery work that I would mind having removed. I could well live without them. If it were my higher powers will for me, or if I could abdicate from self- will, then that would be great. My trust level and faith were at a point I was ready. Nothing in the step says that my higher power would wave a wand and poof, all defects would be gone. Having things entirely removed is a perfect ideal. From what I had witnessed, it likely would not come to be 100%, but if it did, I was ready.
I was one of the fortunate ones. I had no defects I would not be prepared to give up. Some I know have had things they swore they would NEVER give up. Funny, in hanging on to their will so desperately, they never seemed to get the life they truly wanted.
Readiness, in practical terms, has come in stages. As the journey progresses and my conscious contact with my higher power continues to deepen and evolve, I become ready for things to change in different ways. It truly is work in progress.
As I “trudge” along this journey, I have to be conscious every day that the defects of character that are a part of me remain in some ways with me. Daily I have to be conscious. Daily I ask for them to be removed. But now I am getting ahead of myself!
For those who may be considering making huge change in their lives, always be conscious that change is a process and in my experience you have to do A before you do B, and one step builds on the success of what you have done on your trek. You have to have some faith and be well aware of defects before you can ask for them to be minimized or removed. Doing it half ass will give you half ass results! (khbray@hopesernity.ca ; www.hopeserenity.ca)
GARBAGE REMOVAL-READY?
There are so many that balk along the trail at the word GOD. I was one of them because of experiences I had at the hands of people within a structured religion. As have many before me, I did have to find a Higher Power, something greater than the conscious me to get holistic recovery.
Today I can fully appreciate how spiritually bankrupt I was back in those dark days of 1994. Today I walk in the light, not of a higher power that I found in church, but one I found in me and you and all around me. I believe things do not happen by accident.
I think it is great when people find “a religion” that works for them. I’ve got Good Orderly Direction (GOD) from a higher power that works for me and for that I am grateful. When I am open, I am freely given good orderly direction in measures I had not experienced before!
Why this explanation? In my next big step, I was asked to have faith; something that was very new to me.
Were entirely ready to have god remove all these defects of character.-Step6/12 Steps
On first blush, this appeared to be a no brainer. Upon reflection, there is more to this than at first appeared.
By this stage of the journey, I had found a higher power that I could feel and even trust some. I had not had a drink or used in a while, and I had no cravings to do so. This had started to happen when I decided to turn things over.
In having god remove all my defects of character, would this not make me perfect? And I always tongue in cheek remember what happened to the only perfect person I had read about.
Upon reflection, I realized that there were none of the defects that had been identified in my recent recovery work that I would mind having removed. I could well live without them. If it were my higher powers will for me, or if I could abdicate from self- will, then that would be great. My trust level and faith were at a point I was ready. Nothing in the step says that my higher power would wave a wand and poof, all defects would be gone. Having things entirely removed is a perfect ideal. From what I had witnessed, it likely would not come to be 100%, but if it did, I was ready.
I was one of the fortunate ones. I had no defects I would not be prepared to give up. Some I know have had things they swore they would NEVER give up. Funny, in hanging on to their will so desperately, they never seemed to get the life they truly wanted.
Readiness, in practical terms, has come in stages. As the journey progresses and my conscious contact with my higher power continues to deepen and evolve, I become ready for things to change in different ways. It truly is work in progress.
As I “trudge” along this journey, I have to be conscious every day that the defects of character that are a part of me remain in some ways with me. Daily I have to be conscious. Daily I ask for them to be removed. But now I am getting ahead of myself!
For those who may be considering making huge change in their lives, always be conscious that change is a process and in my experience you have to do A before you do B, and one step builds on the success of what you have done on your trek. You have to have some faith and be well aware of defects before you can ask for them to be minimized or removed. Doing it half ass will give you half ass results! (khbray@hopesernity.ca ; www.hopeserenity.ca)
Monday, January 10, 2011
अद्मित्तिंग-वैरी DIFFICULT
ADMITTING-VERY HARD
Admitted to God (Good Orderly Direction source), to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.-12 steps/5th step
Admitting can be such a big word and a very hard thing to do.
When looking thoroughly at myself and my past, I unearthed many things I was not proud of and had done many things that not even those closest to me were aware of. To plagiarize, these were secrets that I had intended to take to my grave. No one had to know!
I had been living a life where I kept big secrets that caused negative emotions and I had learned to stuff my emotions inside. In doing my personal inventory using a written guide and a coach, I had been taken back to long forgotten incidents in my conscious memory, but the intensity of feelings that were rekindled told me that in my subconscious, they were still inside and haunting me.
I had some hard choices to make. I could keep these secrets buried inside and live with the consequences or do as the step said. Was I prepared to admit, even fully to myself let alone this higher power thing or even scarier, another human being, the exact nature of my wrongs? I had unearthed a lot, was I prepared to own it?
Eventually, the answer became yes or I would not be writing this nor have the life I am blessed with today.
Picking the proper “human being” was something that made me think, and think carefully I did. There were choices including my coach, a minister/priest who I knew did this stuff, my 12 step sponsor and more. I did not want to be judged, I just needed to get the crap inside out. I wanted someone who had experience being a listener and a trusted confidant.
With careful consideration, I made what was the right choice for me.
After taking this action, which I do think is massive action; I gained some immediate release from inner turmoil. While my journey was far from over, I had faced “ADMITTING” and was ready to move forward a little more comfortable in my own skin. I can honestly say, I have no secrets lodged in me today and for that I am grateful! I began to really know serenity. (khbray@hopeserenity.ca; www.hopeserenity.ca)
Admitted to God (Good Orderly Direction source), to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.-12 steps/5th step
Admitting can be such a big word and a very hard thing to do.
When looking thoroughly at myself and my past, I unearthed many things I was not proud of and had done many things that not even those closest to me were aware of. To plagiarize, these were secrets that I had intended to take to my grave. No one had to know!
I had been living a life where I kept big secrets that caused negative emotions and I had learned to stuff my emotions inside. In doing my personal inventory using a written guide and a coach, I had been taken back to long forgotten incidents in my conscious memory, but the intensity of feelings that were rekindled told me that in my subconscious, they were still inside and haunting me.
I had some hard choices to make. I could keep these secrets buried inside and live with the consequences or do as the step said. Was I prepared to admit, even fully to myself let alone this higher power thing or even scarier, another human being, the exact nature of my wrongs? I had unearthed a lot, was I prepared to own it?
Eventually, the answer became yes or I would not be writing this nor have the life I am blessed with today.
Picking the proper “human being” was something that made me think, and think carefully I did. There were choices including my coach, a minister/priest who I knew did this stuff, my 12 step sponsor and more. I did not want to be judged, I just needed to get the crap inside out. I wanted someone who had experience being a listener and a trusted confidant.
With careful consideration, I made what was the right choice for me.
After taking this action, which I do think is massive action; I gained some immediate release from inner turmoil. While my journey was far from over, I had faced “ADMITTING” and was ready to move forward a little more comfortable in my own skin. I can honestly say, I have no secrets lodged in me today and for that I am grateful! I began to really know serenity. (khbray@hopeserenity.ca; www.hopeserenity.ca)
ADMITTING-VERY HARD
ADMITTING-VERY HARD
ADMITTING-VERY HARD
Admitted to God (Good Orderly Direction source), to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.-12 steps/5th step
Admitting can be such a big word and a very hard thing to do.
When looking thoroughly at myself and my past, I unearthed many things I was not proud of and had done many things that not even those closest to me were aware of. To plagiarize, these were secrets that I had intended to take to my grave. No one had to know!
I had been living a life where I kept big secrets that caused negative emotions and I had learned to stuff my emotions inside. In doing my personal inventory using a written guide and a coach, I had been taken back to long forgotten incidents in my conscious memory, but the intensity of feelings that were rekindled told me that in my subconscious, they were still inside and haunting me.
I had some hard choices to make. I could keep these secrets buried inside and live with the consequences or do as the step said. Was I prepared to admit, even fully to myself let alone this higher power thing or even scarier, another human being, the exact nature of my wrongs? I had unearthed a lot, was I prepared to own it?
Eventually, the answer became yes or I would not be writing this nor have the life I am blessed with today.
Picking the proper “human being” was something that made me think, and think carefully I did. There were choices including my coach, a minister/priest who I knew did this stuff, my 12 step sponsor and more. I did not want to be judged, I just needed to get the crap inside out. I wanted someone who had experience being a listener and a trusted confidant.
With careful consideration, I made what was the right choice for me.
After taking this action, which I do think is massive action; I gained some immediate release from inner turmoil. While my journey was far from over, I had faced “ADMITTING” and was ready to move forward a little more comfortable in my own skin. I can honestly say, I have no secrets lodged in me today and for that I am grateful! I began to really know serenity. (khbray@hopeserenity.ca; www.hopeserenity.ca)
ADMITTING-VERY HARD
Admitted to God (Good Orderly Direction source), to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.-12 steps/5th step
Admitting can be such a big word and a very hard thing to do.
When looking thoroughly at myself and my past, I unearthed many things I was not proud of and had done many things that not even those closest to me were aware of. To plagiarize, these were secrets that I had intended to take to my grave. No one had to know!
I had been living a life where I kept big secrets that caused negative emotions and I had learned to stuff my emotions inside. In doing my personal inventory using a written guide and a coach, I had been taken back to long forgotten incidents in my conscious memory, but the intensity of feelings that were rekindled told me that in my subconscious, they were still inside and haunting me.
I had some hard choices to make. I could keep these secrets buried inside and live with the consequences or do as the step said. Was I prepared to admit, even fully to myself let alone this higher power thing or even scarier, another human being, the exact nature of my wrongs? I had unearthed a lot, was I prepared to own it?
Eventually, the answer became yes or I would not be writing this nor have the life I am blessed with today.
Picking the proper “human being” was something that made me think, and think carefully I did. There were choices including my coach, a minister/priest who I knew did this stuff, my 12 step sponsor and more. I did not want to be judged, I just needed to get the crap inside out. I wanted someone who had experience being a listener and a trusted confidant.
With careful consideration, I made what was the right choice for me.
After taking this action, which I do think is massive action; I gained some immediate release from inner turmoil. While my journey was far from over, I had faced “ADMITTING” and was ready to move forward a little more comfortable in my own skin. I can honestly say, I have no secrets lodged in me today and for that I am grateful! I began to really know serenity. (khbray@hopeserenity.ca; www.hopeserenity.ca)
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