Monday, June 20, 2011

How to Develop a Healthy Perspective by Jeff Keller



How can we develop more perspective?
  Wake up to the miracles all around you.  Whether you realize it or not, you are part of an extraordinary universe.  Spectacular, mind-boggling things are happening every second.  For instance, you breathe, your heart beats and you digest food all without any conscious effort.  Tulips know when to pop up through the ground at precisely the right time each and every year.  The earth rotates. . . the sun rises and sets. . . the seasons change.  All part of a wondrous, never-ending cycle.  So, shake your ho-hum attitude and begin to appreciate the amazing intelligence guiding the universe!
  Be open to the idea that everything happens for a reason.  If you doubt this principal, speak to people who, in your view, are positive and successful and who also seem to have peace of mind.  Ask them if they believe that everything happens for a reason.  Then, ask those who answer with an enthusiastic "YES" to explain why they feel that way.
  Extend yourself to others.  We tend to get mired in our own problems, turning inward and growing depressed and frustrated.  Finding ways to serve and help others will make you feel better and broaden your understanding about the interconnectedness of all human beings.  Even something as simple as offering a few encouraging words to someone else can make a world of difference--to them and to you.
  Redirect your focus to the many blessings in your life.  Are you in reasonably good health?  Do you have your eyesight and mobility?  Is there a roof over your head and enough food in the refrigerator?  There are many people who do not enjoy these gifts and who would gladly trade places with you.  So, focus on the many things for which you are grateful.  To reinforce this idea, take the back of an index card and write "Count Your Blessings," or "I have so much to be grateful for."  Place the card where you'll frequently see it, such as on your desk, in your car or on the bathroom mirror.
 View every problem as an opportunity for growth.  Too often, we see our difficulties as negative experiences which are there to punish us and cause pain.  As you look back on your life, you'll find that many problems and painful situations led to personal growth and improved conditions.  Maybe you lost a job which in turn led you to a better position.  Or a relationship ended but you wound up in a more fulfilling one.  So, develop a strong belief that the "bad" experience is there to help you in some way.  Don't curse your challenge; instead, look for the lessons or opportunities which your problems are showing you.
  Watch your mouth!  Do you frequently whine and complain. . . or broadcast your ailments and minor irritations to everyone who crosses your path?  Griping reinforces your problems, makes you feel more miserable and alienates others.  Find something positive in your life--or in the other person's life--to talk about instead.
  Simplify your life and restore balance.  Easy to say, but not so easy to implement.  Sometimes, we get overextended, taking on too many responsibilities or projects.  We ignore loved ones and even our own health.  So, maybe it's time to say "NO" to the next project or demand on your time.  Which is really more important--another volunteer committee assignment or spending time with your children?7-1

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