"Start Your Day On Your Terms "
By Mark Susnow |
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Most of us start the day like we're trying to catch a train. We
wake up, grab a cup of coffee, look at the paper and listen to
the news. We rush out of the house to make an appointment or
deadline or to put the finishing touches on a project. From
deadline to appointment it goes. When we leave work we have
other responsibilities and obligations, and it doesn't end until
we go to sleep, and for some it still doesn't end. We never do
catch the train. We forgot one essential thing. We are the
conductor and the train can't go anywhere without us.
What if you knew deep inside that the train was not going
anywhere? What would it take to develop the wisdom that there
was a better way? What changes could you implement that would
make a difference? I was a busy trial lawyer for thirty years,
always running to catch the train. I still remember racing to the
court room full of coffee and stress until I realized I was the
conductor of my life. That realization allowed me to make life
altering changes that continue to make my life more enjoyable,
more successful and more fulfilling.
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It all starts with creating your perfect morning. This is your
morning, no one else's. Consider waking up to music you love,
rather than to the music or news on your alarm clock. Then
before doing anything else take 10-15 minutes and sit silently
thinking about all you're grateful for. Then start to wonder what
the highlight of your day could be. From this new vantage point
you might even skip that cup of coffee or that cigarette. As you
leave your house and begin the flow of your day you look at each
experience and wonder if this is going to be the highpoint of
your day knowing there is more to come. The concept of looking at
the highlight of the day can be used in any situation even one
that seems unpleasant. Looking for the highlight in this
experience or this person can totally change your attitude. As
the day unfolds, if you sense that things inside are heating up,
consider taking a little break. You might even stretch for five
minutes or walk around the block. As your day progresses the
biggest difference is the knowledge that you can be busy and be
relaxed.
I have found that starting the day this way increases my energy
and efficiency throughout the day. When I leave my house centered
and focused there is a much greater likelihood that I can
maintain this balance throughout the day. There has been plenty
of research by psychologists demonstrating the value of taking
the time for morning meditation or creative silence. I have been
doing this for over thirty years and very rarely feel
overwhelmed. I laugh more and generally enjoy my day. Of course I
have my challenges and lose my focus periodically, but not for
long. And before I go to sleep I again think about what was most
special about this day.
The one thing I do know for certain is that there's a direct
correlation between how I start my day and the quality of my
life. Try a little experiment. For the next thirty days start
your day on your own terms and discover the dramatic changes that
are possible.
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Mark Susnow has a unique background. Formerly a successful trial
attorney for 30 years, as well as musician, he integrates what it
takes to be truly prosperous in the world with the inner wisdom
unfolded to him through years of yoga and meditation practice.
As a personal coach, leadership consultant and inspirational
speaker, Mark provides inspiration and motivation to many
business leaders and professionals. He knows what it means to
have a big vision and has demonstrated the courage and energy it
takes to accomplish it. Consider contacting Mark and be sure to
visit his website: http://www.inspirepossibility.com
