REDEFINE SUCCESS

Success is an absurd, erratic thing.
-Alice Foote MacDougall, businesswoman (1867-1945)

Our culture's definition of success is fairly limited. The signs are mostly external : a high paying job, a nice car, beautiful clothes, a beautiful partner and a large home.

Consider these alternative definitions of success, which don't require conspicuous consumption: You have a successful life if you have a safe place to live, good health, a nurturing family life, ongoing education, spiritual development, good friends and work that feeds you emotionally and intellectually.

YOU ARE A SUCCESSFUL PERSON IF YOU ARE CAPABLE OF GIVING AND RECIEVING LOVE AND EXPERIENCING JOY!

What do you consider to be the ingredients of successful life?
More importantly, how do you measure success for yourself?

BE TRUTHFUL

The good I stand on is my truth and honesty.
-William Shakespeare, dramatist and poet (1564-1616)


One of the best way to simplify your life is to be honest. There is nothing more stressful than keeping track of stories you have invented or embellished. It may seem like a good idea, at the time, to alter the truth - you may want to protect someone from pain, or protect yourself from embarrassment; or may be intending to give yourself an advantage and cheat in a test.

But, in the long run, if you are dishonest you complicate your life. And in the end you may cause more pain to yourself and others than if you had told the truth. Honesty is like a fresh breeze. The trick is to be simultaneously honest and Kind.

USE STRESS BUSTERS

Every Stress leaves an indelible scar.
-Hans Selye, physician and author (1907-82)


Stress takes its toll on our bodies and minds. So what can you do to counteract its effects? First of all, Whatever you do, DO IT ON A DAILY BASIS.
Meditating or Walking once a month is not going to help. Second, spend a month exploring many different methods of stress reduction so that you can find out what works for you.

Are you a movement person? Then try walking, biking or tai'chi. Are you an exercise type? Then Go for Yoga. Do you love music? Then listen to one of the many music CDs made for relaxation, or if you find voices soothing then listen to a recorded guided meditation. If you need quiet then find somewhere you can experience quite silence for 15 to 30 minutes each day. If you need self expression, try painting, singing, writing or dancing.

Live a simple and Spiritual Life...

PRAY FOR THE EARTH

It is a wholesome and necessary thing for us to turn again to the earth and in the contemplation of her beauties to know of wonder and humility.
-Rachel Carson, environmentalist and author (1907-64)


It is no surprise that the earth suffers from our living on it. We pollute her skies, oceans, her rivers and her ground. Our human activities cause global warming and even put holes in the ozone layer. Because of these sad realities, you may be inspired to donate money or volunteer your time for environment causes. But don't forget the power of prayer.

Take a moment every day to pray for our beautiful planet. Pray for the Earth because our health and survival depend on her. Praying for the Earth will hello calm any anger or fear you may be experiencing and restore your optimism and hope!

GO ON A NATURE WALK

The day I see a leaf is a marvel of a day.
-Kenneth Patton, Christian Minister and poet (1911-94)


Unless your job takes you outside, you probably spend a lot of time working and living indoors. But don't let your busy schedule deprive you of walking amid nature.

Check out what parks are available nearby. If you have a little more time, try to get out of the city Get yourself at least an hour to walk in a garden or wooden area. When walking, try not to get lost in your thoughts, instead, focus on your surroundings. Pay attention to the trees, the plants and the flowers. How many you can name? Notice any animals, birds, insects and examine their behavior. Breathe deeply and experience the heady smell of the earth. Nature walks renew body and soul are a great activity to share with Children.

MAKE A BUDGET

The budget should be balanced
- Marcus Tulius Cicero, orator and statesman.


Why make a budget? You may feel that you don't make enough money to make this worthwhile. But the less you have, the more you need a BUDGET. If you are in DEBT and without savings, you definitely need one.

First, track your expenses for three months. When you have a picture of where your money is going, decide where you can cut back.
Second, list all your debts.
Third, create a budget for the next year by calculating your income and your fixed and variable expenses. Design your budget with relevant categories.
Fourth, track your income and expenses and keep your budget up to date.

A budget is a financial tool for getting out of debt and increasing your financial wealth. It is a tool for living a more conscious and balanced life.

SAY GRACE

Expressing gratitude for the food on our table is universal.
- Sarah McElwain , author of Saying Grace.

Whether or not you practice a religion, consider 'Saying grace' before your meals. Saying grace expresses gratitude for what you are about to eat, in the form of a prayer. You can thank God or a higher power, or simply thank the universe for giving you the food you are about to enjoy. You can thank the farmer who planted it, the workers who harvested it, the grocer who sold it and (if not yourself) the person who prepared it.

Saying grace can remind you of your connection and indebtedness to all other living beings. It can even help you be mindful of the quality and amount of food you eat. Try saying grace before every meal - with friends, family, when alone or at work!

(Madonna Gauding)