Life lessons

Have you ever felt that you just don’t know what to do next?  Does it seem that what you are doing isn’t working as well as it could be? We all get in a rut sometimes… it’s a mental space where nothing seems to be shifting, in one particular area of your life or in just about everything.   This can apply to your work, your social life, your family-building plans or your creative output. The worst part is that if you can’t see your way forward, you can’t take action.

Yesterday, at my monthly business networking group, I quite unexpectedly took away some great lessons that can improve how I work and live.  Some came from a 10 minute training session on time management, but I also picked up some points merely from listening to some of the other women talk about what they are doing for themselves. This got me thinking.  Wherever you go, there are opportunities to learn. So, if you find any part of your life stuck in one place, I have a few tips that can help you step out of that space and see the possibilities:

• Get out and about – A good way to generate new ideas is to increase your contact with stimulating people. If lethargy is part of your problem, it’s even more important to break free of any isolating routine you have adopted. 
• Pay attention to what others are saying and doing – Even if someone else’s attitude or activity has nothing to do with your concerns, you can learn lessons from how they are getting what they want out of life.  
• Emulate someone who has what you want – If someone else seems really together and successful, do what she does.  You could even ask her how to get started. People are usually flattered when you notice their achievements, and consequently happy to help you. 
• Prioritize short-term tasks – Instead of trying to climb a mountain, knock off a few of the nearby hills. The satisfaction you feel will spur you on to bigger and better things.
• Borrow energy – Spending time with people who energize, rather than drain you, is key to keeping your spirit up and your focus keen.
• Give yourself credit – It feels great to be able to acknowledge to yourself and others that you are moving forward. Remember to celebrate your successes and reward your efforts.
• Build on your success – Once you feel that you have moved out of your rut, it’s important to keep up your new habits.  With each achievement, you should feel empowered to look further into the future, take bigger