Regain Control of Your Life in Five Simple Steps
Today: Step 3 – Step Away
Step 1: Be Selfish
Step 2: Say No
Step 3: Step Away
Step 4: No More Excuses
Step 5: Look Forward – Not Back
The best way
to regain control of your life is to step away and really look at your life for what it is. Take a day, or even a weekend if possible, and step outside of the normal things that go on day to day. By giving yourself the opportunity to take a full step back will give you the time and space to look at things from a different perspective. As a result, you will have a better chance to see what the obstacles are, and the things that need to be addressed in order to help you regain complete control of your life.
Coping with the fast pace and complexity of life may find us straining to find the energy just to make it through each day. Illness or family problems may cause additional stress. We may feel a creeping sense of weariness with life, a sense that life is just too hard and not much fun. Even though we desire it, we’re not sure our lives fit into a meaningful pattern.
If you are contemplating the meaning or purpose of your life, take the time to step away and complete a full inventory of your life. Carefully consider and answer the following statements (do you agree or disagree?). They are intended to evaluate your progress and inspire further progress in the realization of your life purpose and to help you regain control:
I often try to ignore the unresolved issues in my life.
I take seriously the dreams and passions for my life.
The world doesn’t offer me much hope for a better life.
I only occasionally take time to truly let loose and play.
I frequently see the silver lining in the setbacks in my life.
Most of my energy goes into making it through each day.
I find it easy to bask in the magic of the present moment.
I experience myself as connected to the ebb and flow of life.
My talents are essential for helping me get what I want in life.
I’m not inclined to make major changes in the direction of my life.
When conflicts arise, I can usually see from the other’s perspective.
I sometimes get an inner sense I’m supposed to meet certain people.
I frequently feel the need to protect myself from the demands of the world.
I have some regular activities which further my growth in body, mind and spirit.
For the statements that are working for you, make certain you continue to make these a priority in your life. For the statements that are not working, consider what resources (time, money, and other people) you would need in order to turn these around. Focus on one at a time.
You don’t have to eat the elephant all in one bite. Just do what you can, when you can; but begin by taking action today. Once you take action, a newfound sense of control and self-confidence will develop thereby giving you the ability to devote more energy to changing what’s important to you. Don’t delay. Begin today, right now.
Next: No More Excuses