Tenets to live by…
Love more, fear less.
Whenever we confront an obstacle–whether it be external events or some internal blockage such as a negative self-belief–we have a choice as to how to respond. We can either allow fear to grip us in its icy fingers, preventing us from manifesting the very change we so desire. Or we can open our hearts to loving what is: our lives as they are in this moment, ourselves (the good and the bad), and all life. Loving more and fearing less has served me incredibly well these past few years. I am more joyful and positive, and accomplishing more.
Life is pain, but suffering is optional.
I think the Buddha had it right. We will all struggle, grow old, watch loved ones pass away, and die. The question is not whether we will experience pain but how we choose to handle it. Some keys: Learning to let go of attachment to outcomes, to love ourselves deeply, and to find contentment in things as they are.
In order to find your balance, you sometimes have to fall.
Going through difficult times can prove the best motivation for personal growth. My own dark night of the soul – divorce and a family crisis – lead to my decision to explore depth psychotherapy, delve into the dark realms of my psyche, and emerge as a stronger, more authentic, and fundamentally more peaceful person.
Don’t fear the Shadow.
We’re perfect as we are, but we’ve all got room for improvement. The trick is not to shy away from the bad things that happen to good people, or the unpleasant thoughts and feelings that even us good people have at times. Rather we should fearlessly confront our shortcomings and gain lessons from our so-called mistakes.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish.
The flight attendants tell us, in case of emergency, to put the oxygen mask on ourselves first then help those in need of assistance. If you aren’t finding fulfillment, balance, and joy in your own life, then you won’t be as capable of spreading those qualities to others. Self-improvement can be the ultimate act of generosity.
Be generous with others.
When we’re solving the riddle of our own lives, we can go easier on others. We’re all dealing with the same mad beautiful tender harsh world. Reach out and give those around you some love.
Tread lightly on the Earth.
She’s all we’ve got.
Feed your soul.
Don’t go into autopilot with your life. Do something every day that makes your heart sing.
