Week 1 – Good Stuff: The one step that takes care of the rest
Topic of the Week
Good Stuff
Be picky. Have high standards. Don’t settle for less. These are all messages that, when used appropriately, help people to live better lives. As you start your New Year, I want to invite you to be picky about something in particular – your mind. If you really want to make this year a year filled with self-love, self-acceptance, forward movement, and success, then decide right now that you’ll do everything in your power to fill that beautiful mind of yours with good stuff – really good stuff.
No more reading boring emails that might have something in it you need to see, or watching violent news that leaves you feeling helpless or afraid. Forget about the celebrity sightings that make you feel like everyone else is living a great life but you. Nope. No good. Not enough for you anymore.
Stop listening to the latest drama story at work or to the friend who’s been complaining about the same damn thing for years. Ugh. It’s exhausting and it’s creating a neural pathway that leads to nowheresville. It’s time to be picky – really picky.
This year, resolve to do things that fill your mind with exciting new ideas, inspirational messages that motivate you to act, or wisdom that touches your soul in the best of all ways.
Try this…
Read – Take a good book out to lunch rather than the co-worker who’s made “woe is me” his or her personal motto for life. Keep an inspirational book by your bed or in the bathroom and use daily routines like waking up or going to sleep as opportunities for “feel-good” breaks.
Watch – Trade in the latest reality “debacle” show and tune into Oprah’s network – the OWN channel – and watch a new standard for television being created before your very eyes. (You can find the channel in your area by visiting here)
Listen – Listen to HayHouseRadio.com online (or on your iPhone) and discover a new kind of radio network that not only fills your mind with good stuff, but also gives you a chance to get advice from authors and experts for free. You can find it here.
Connect – Decide to take a workshop, attend a lecture, or enroll in a course that will stretch you, inspire you, and connect you with like-minded people whose good stuff will rub off on you. (Mom was right – you do become the people you hang around with ) For ideas, you can find our schedule here.
This year I resolve to help fill your mind with good stuff. Pretty soon we’ll be asking you for your name and address (and we’ll keep it private) so I can randomly pick people throughout the year to receive surprise “feel good” gifts. It might be one of my books or card decks, someone else’s book, a CD, a DVD, an invitation to a workshop or conference, or a personal note of inspiration from me to help keep you on track. Stay tuned for more details…
A good life starts with good thoughts. Make the one resolution that will really change your life – “This year I’m all about the good stuff!”
Happy New Year!
link:
http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-1-good-stuff-the-one-step-that-takes-care-of-the-rest/
Week 2 – Sensual Living: Ways to ignite your senses and feel good
Topic of the Week
Sensual Living
Almost every day I post something on my Facebook page in the hopes that it inspires, informs, challenges, or entertains the wonderful people who have joined me there. On Saturday morning I posted this affirmation:
“I honor my sensuality by exploring sights, sounds, scents and textures that make me feel alive and connected to my body.”
I had been writing all morning with a heating pad wrapped around my shoulders. It felt warm and cozy on a cold winter morning and I was inspired to share it as an example of the kinds
of small actions we could take every day to feel good.
of small actions we could take every day to feel good.After posting the affirmation, I invited people to share the things they do to honor their sensuality and I loved the ideas so much, I wanted to share some of them with you.
Doing things that bring pleasure to your senses is great way to feel good so it’s right in line with our one New Year resolution . Here are some of the examples…
~*~
I love to wear a pure silk scarf around my neck.
I love my morning coffee. I sprinkle it with cinnamon and allow myself quiet time to enjoy it. It smells wonderful and it tastes delicious.
When I get home from work, I give myself the gift of silence and allow myself to ease into my evening. No TV until after dinner and kitchen cleaned (or at least neatened up). That way, I’m not bombarded with noise or images and can take the time to ponder.
Sitting next to a roaring fire with a cuddly fleece blanket wrapped around my shoulders.
I do Pilates, which keeps me in touch with my body, nourishes every part of me and the endorphins keep me relaxed for the rest of the day.
I do yoga in my kitchen and use my exercise ball to do backbends.
I light a tea candle to remind me to pray for others.
I used to use my heating pad to warm the end of my bed and my feet. I got an electric blanket for Christmas and now enjoy a totally warm bed!
I only sleep on 100% white cotton sheets that are bleached white every time I do laundry.
I listen to playlists on my iPod while I exercise and work in the kitchen.
My fave fave fave is my flannel leopard pajamas. I want to be in those as much as possible. Heaven!
A hot bath with eucalyptus or lavender oils, a refreshing glass of lemon-water and a good “mindless” book!
Painting my toes! Playing around with makeup or my hair, trying different styles.
I go outside, stand on the grass, and ground myself.
I watch the fish in my aquarium.
On Wednesday nights I stop answering the phone after 7 p.m. I toss my bathrobe in the dryer, and then put it on while it’s warm, and cuddle on the couch with my pets, a book, or a movie. It’s a peaceful break in the middle of the week.
Now that winter is here, the most luxurious thing I love to do is heat up some vanilla soymilk and add the best dark chocolate I can find. Drinking this makes me feel like Matt Damon is my husband!
I love brushing my hair with the bristle hairbrush that my daughter gave me ~ it’s so soothing.
I am new to meditation so I bought an app for my iPhone called Mindfulness Meditation. Now when I have 5, 10, or 15 minutes, waiting in the car or lying in bed I can do a guided meditation or relaxation meditation. It has helped me to slow down and be more aware in my life.
Listen to HayHouseRadio.com while I exercise.
Swing in my hammock and daydream.
I love drinking hot tea with a pinch of freshly pounded ginger and fresh lemon grass.
Good ideas, huh? Take a few and add them to your life this year. Think outside the box. Bring comfortable slippers to work, make your own playlist of relaxing music for your next massage (trade foot rubs with a friend or partner!), find the perfect mug to enjoy your tea or coffee, or put a favorite piece of art where you’ll see it everyday. Honoring your senses is good self-care and another perfect “feel good” strategy for the New Year!
Take Action Challenge
How about adding one new sensual treat to your life this week!
http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-2-sensual-living-ways-to-ignite-your-senses-and-feel-good/
Week 3 – Risk Taker: Build Your Courage Muscles
Topic of the Week
Risk Taker
Over the years, I’ve received lots of stories about how members of our community have taken risks and built their courage muscles. I came across this story from a woman who read Stand Up for Your Life. I share it with you this week in the hopes that it inspires you to take the kind of risk that makes you feel good because you stretched outside of your comfort zone!“In 1984 I divorced my husband and since then I have never had a date – until now. For the past year and a half, I’ve noticed a guy at the gym in my building named Mark. Though I’ve chatted with him here and there (and even once mentioned that we might go running together sometime), nothing materialized other than pleasant small talk. After starting “Stand Up for Your Life,” I decided to take a big risk. I approached Mark and suggested that we get a cup of coffee sometime, and even offered my phone number. Though there was no pen and paper around (it’s a gym after all :), he said he would try to remember my number.
When a few days went by and I didn’t hear from him, I figured that he had either forgotten or just wasn’t interested. Then, one evening I arrived home from work and found a message from him on my answering machine asking me out to dinner! I agreed and we had a terrific time. Since then we’ve alternated asking one another out. We’ve gone running in Central Park, had another wonderful meal, and went to a movie just the other night. After asking him out for a glass of wine last night I’ve now been on more dates in the past few weeks, than I have in my daughter’s lifetime. Imagine the fun I would have missed had I not decided to take the plunge and stand up for my life!”
I love hearing stories like this. It’s great motivation for doing something you know you need to do yet keep putting off.
So, how about you? What risk do you need to take to stand up for your life? You might want to:
- Ask someone special out for coffee.
- Set up a meeting with your boss to discuss a promotion or raise.
- Increase your fees to a level that honors the value you deliver.
- Set a date for the workshop you want to offer.
- Share a creative dream with others (supportive people only!).
- Start the book you’ve been meaning to write.
- Ask your clients for referrals.
Yes, you may face rejection, but what’s the alternative?
It’s a mediocre life that comes from playing it safe. Yuck!
This week, take a moment to answer the following question:
“What one thing have you been thinking about doing for a while, that you keep putting off because you’re afraid?”
Then, use this newsletter as a catalyst for taking action. Face your fear head on and take the risk! I once heard a great line from a woman in one of my audiences. She said: “Any rejection is God’s protection.” You may want to print this statement out and keep it nearby as you take this week’s challenge…
Take Action Challenge
Choose one risk you’ve wanted to take for a while and just do it. Don’t over plan, over think, or over analyze the process. Just take the risk for the sake of risk taking. When it comes to doing something scary, the end result is less important than doing what it takes to develop the courage muscles that will serve you in all areas of your life. Once you take the risk and face your fear, feel free to let me know what happens (you can reply to this newsletter). I just may share your story as inspiration for others, too!
Link : :http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-3-risk-taker-build-your-courage-muscles/
Week 5 – Bursting with Potential: Let yourself out of the cage
Topic of the Week
Bursting with Potential
Years ago, long before I ever wrote a book or worked as a coach, I shared a summer home with twelve people at a beautiful place by the sea. I had ended a relationship, was feeling a bit heart-broken, and wanted to rest and have a little fun. My friend Julie and I decided to throw caution to the wind and share this home with ten other people we didn’t know. It turned out to be one of the best summers of my life.
We cooked meals together, sang and danced during clean up, spent long hours engaged in philosophical conversations, and enjoyed even more hours hanging together at the beach.One roommate, Ken, worked as an IT manager for a company in Boston yet, it took very little time to see that he harbored a passion for writing and improvisational acting. He was gut-busting funny, smart beyond words, and quick, quick, quick on his feet. Ken provided a good amount of entertainment that summer and, by the end, I secretly hoped that one day, he’d do something more with his gifts. You could feel potential bursting from his pores.
Cut to the present. I hadn’t seen Ken in years, when I received an email from Julie telling me that he was performing a one-man show in the Boston area. Seems Ken had been laid off from his job after nineteen years and, as a result, created a show about the pain and possibility of loss. I couldn’t get tickets fast enough.
Last month Michael and I went to the show. Using a series of vignettes that included a variety of wild and wonderful characters, Ken skillfully moved through the rage, the fear, the hope, and the longing of an unlived life. By stepping out and taking a risk, he’s challenging the status quo – the decision to play it safe by choosing a “responsible” career based on the expectations of others. And it’s working. He’s happy and scared and unsure of what’s next, but he’s beaming with realized potential.
Are you?
Ken’s doing another show on Friday, February 18th in Brookline, MA at the Puppet Showplace Theater and we’ll be attending again with a bunch of friends. The show’s that good. If you’re in the area and want more info, click here. Bravo, Ken!
Take Action Challenge
Think about your life and where you might be playing it safe or living by someone else’s rules. Then, this week, do something to step outside of the norm. Remember, one small step can change the course of your life.
Link :http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-5-bursting-with-potential-let-yourself-out-of-the-cage/
Link :http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-5-bursting-with-potential-let-yourself-out-of-the-cage/
Week 6 – Feel Your Life: The healing power of grief
Topic of the Week
Feel Your Life
While on the cruise, I had an opportunity to talk about the way in which grief connects us to our deepest self. When we are brave enough to feel the pain of loss, we open ourselves up to so much more – softness, the kindness of others, power that comes from anger, or a deeper, more exquisite love.
We can gently encourage the process of grief by seeing a sad movie, talking with a friend who listens without commentary, or by reading the words of writers who have captured their own healing journey of loss and reclamation of self.
On the cruise, I opened my keynote presentation with a poem from my friend, Nancy Levin, who has just published a book of poetry about the end of her marriage and the beginning of a new life. Her poems provoked much conversation on the cruise among people who were experiencing shifts in their relationships, and I thought I’d share one of them with you this week.
The book is called: Writing for My Life…Reclaiming the Lost Pieces of Me, and it’s a beautiful catalyst for healing. Stop for a moment, take a slow, deep breath, and let the words flow through you…
on the threshold of something new
this is the summer
of heart ache and
goodbye
i wake and lay in bed
remembering all the things
that will never happen
all the places we will not go
all the things we will not do
the taste in my mouth
is of a marriage crashing
healing the past
inside the present
remains and relics
embedded and intact
a return and forward
an arrival
left alone in the dark
we each must discover
our own light
the hope is killing me
fear of being abandoned
for any sort of weakness
or not knowing
what do you think you’ve done
with all your feeling all this time
this gets you in trouble
interfering with decisions
already in progress
it’s the fear that makes you question
not the faith
constantly recreating
the wounds of childhood
until they heal
seemingly stranded in the liminal
this time between no longer and not yet
no longer married and
not yet divorced
on the threshold of something new
i made a promise that i cannot keep
it will shock you how much it never happened
Take Action Challenge
Whether grief feels right to you or not, use this week’s newsletter as a reminder to give yourself the time and space you need to feel your life. It’s feeling that gives life depth, meaning, and rightful weight.Link :http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-6-feel-your-life-the-healing-power-of-grief/
Week 7 – Valentine Love: A fun way to let others know they matter
Topic of the Week
Valentine Love
Earlier this week, a Facebook pal, Karen, shared a great idea with me on my Facebook Page. She wrote, “I’ll be spending the day on Monday giving Valentine’s Day cards to strangers with hand-written messages and affirmations (some I borrowed from you!), telling them they matter and are loved.” Karen invited me to join her (I’m in!) and this week I’m passing her invitation on to you. How about making this whole week a celebration of love? Remember the little packages of Valentine’s you used to get as a kid? The ones you’d fill out and bring to school? Well, go out some time today, pick up a package or two, open it up, and write the words “You are loved!” on each card (and any additional message you feel inclined to share). Then, put each Valentine in an envelope, draw a heart on the outside, and put them in your purse, in your car, or in your briefcase, and get ready for fun!
Throughout the day, you can leave a Valentine on the windshield of a car, in the shopping cart of a stranger at the grocery store, on the desk of someone at work, in a book at the bookstore, or on a table in your local coffee shop. Each time you leave one, silently bless the person with love, and keep going until all of your Valentine’s have been given away.
I can’t wait to get started and I hope you’ll join me. We have so many people in our global community who will do this, that I’m sure we’re bound to create a groundswell of love. Who knows, maybe we’ll tip the scales and suddenly inspire world peace? Now that’s an intention I can wrap my arms around !
Have fun and Happy Valentine’s Day!
Take Action Challenge
Along with sharing your love with others this week, do something special for your sweet Self. Buy yourself a valentine and fill it with all the things you appreciate about yourself. Or get yourself a gift, wrap it up, and give it to yourself at the end of the day (I still have – and cherish – the gift I gave myself years ago when I was single and feeling a bit sad on Valentine’s Day). Write the words “You Are Loved!” in red magic marker, surround it with a heart, and keep it in view all week long. Trust me, you’ll smile every time you see it!
This week’s video is of one of my favorite performers singing about love – it’s for my sister, Shelly . You’ll find it here.
Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-7-valentine-love-a-fun-way-to-let-others-know-they-matter/
Week 8 – Mirror Neurons: Touching others in a conscious way
Topic of the Week
Mirror Neurons
This morning, I made a cup of tea and sat down to watch an interview with Charlie Rose and Chris Anderson, the Ted conference curator. I love Ted.com. If you haven’t visited the website, please do. It’s filled with exciting, creative, and provocative speeches (all 18 minutes long or less) delivered by great thinkers – scientists, philosophers, technology gurus, and all kinds of people who are passionate about their work.Each time I visit Ted.com and listen to their talks, I’m reminded that the world is filled with people who are curious, hungry to learn, excited to share compelling ideas, and committed to humanitarian efforts that make life better for us all. In some way, I see the Ted community as a catalyst that has the power to lift humanity to a whole new level of consciousness.
As a speaker, watching a variety of presentation styles has taught me the importance of being vulnerable and telling stories. These are the teaching tools that leave an imprint on our hearts and minds long after the talk is done. As Charlie and Chris were discussing the gift of storytelling and the ability to inspire an audience with the spoken word, Charlie said something beautiful: “It’s a magical thing to see somebody walk into a room and be able to, through telling stories, through the magic of their own communication, have (the audience) almost breathing in rhythm with the speaker.”
Chris agreed, and went on further to explain, “What’s amazing is that’s what’s happening. There is all this amazing research about mirror neurons and we now know that when one human being does something or exhibits an emotion, the other people watching that person have the same mirror neurons firing in their brains that are causing the same experience and emotion as the speaker. So they actually are that person, in a sense, for a moment. “
Hmmmmm. I don’t know about you, but when I consider the notion that those listening to me may be mirroring my experience and emotions, I feel a whole new level of responsibility for what I communicate in any situation. Think about it…
Take Action Challenge
Here’s a fun idea. As you talk with people during the week, ask yourself: “Would I want what I’m saying and feeling right now to be experienced by others?”Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-8-mirror-neurons-touching-others-in-a-conscious-way/
Week 9 – Self-Actualization: A roadmap for growth
Topic of the Week
Self-Actualization
As I read through the examples, I thought…- These are characteristics of a mature adult.
- The list provides a beautiful roadmap for growth.
- Self-love and self-acceptance are at the root of enlightenment.
Maslow’s self-actualizing characteristics
- See problems in terms of challenges and situations requiring solutions, rather than see problems as personal complaints or excuses.
- Need for privacy and comfortable being alone.
- Reliant on own experiences and judgment – independent – not reliant on culture and environment to form opinions and views.
- Not susceptible to social pressures – non-conformist.
- Democratic, fair and non-discriminating – embracing and enjoying all cultures, races and individual styles.
- Socially compassionate – possessing humanity.
- Accepting others as they are and not trying to change people.
- Comfortable with oneself – despite any unconventional tendencies.
- A few close intimate friends rather than many surface relationships.
- Sense of humor directed at oneself or the human condition, rather than at the expense of others.
- Spontaneous and natural – true to oneself, rather than being how others want.
- Excited and interested in everything, even ordinary things.
- Creative, inventive and original.
From my perspective, you ought to give yourself a BIG HUG!
Take Action Challenge
As you read through the list, choose one example that needs your attention. Do you need to stop meddling in someone else’s business? Is it time to spend more time alone? Are you ready to become more loving by relaxing your tendency to judge? Then, step up and do something different so you move toward self-actualization .Link :http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-9-self-actualization-a-roadmap-for-growth/
Week 10 – Bye Bye Procrastination: Get into action
Topic of the Week
Bye Bye Procrastination
It’s tax time here in the states, a time when most people feel enormous pressure to get their financial act together. So, this week, I thought I’d rerun a tried-and-true process for overcoming procrastination. Whether you need to complete your taxes, a college application, or writing a book, here are six steps that will help you succeed:1. Set a deadline. Deadlines are your ticket to freedom. Contrary to what most people think, a deadline can decrease stress by motivating you to act. Our anxiety about completing a project is usually related to inaction and this anxiety uses an enormous amount of energy. Once you have a deadline in place, it releases this energy and allows you to put it to good use. Set a deadline and let it inspire you to get started now.
2. Use “positive pressure.” Now, left to our own devices many of us will push back a deadline, especially when it relates to those projects that cause us discomfort. Just look at how many people procrastinate about getting their taxes done. By asking someone to hold you accountable in a supportive way you put positive pressure on yourself to make your project a priority. Be sure to choose someone who has your best interest at heart and ask him or her to gently check in with you to be sure you’re on track. Also, make plans to celebrate together once you reach the finish line.
3. Set a start date. Once you have a project, a deadline, and someone to hold you accountable, you’re ready to set a formal start date. Setting a time to begin a project gives you a chance to prepare. For example, if you have a deadline to complete your taxes by April 1st, choose a start date of March 1st. Then you’ll have a chance to clear your schedule, get forms and resources in place, and line up the help you might need before you get into trouble. Too often we plunge into a project without a plan and end up getting stuck or frustrated. Give yourself time to prepare so you can start with confidence.
4. Set boundaries. Think of this step as casting a wide net around you and your project so you’re protected while you work. For example, if you need to complete a report for your job, you’ll want to schedule uninterrupted time in your office. This might require a “do not disturb” sign on the door, a conversation with co-workers about needing space, and a willingness to shut the ringer off on the phone or avoid email until you’re done. Ask yourself: “What boundaries do I need to put in place in order to have the emotional and physical space I need to get this project finished?”
5. Take frequent breaks. In the past when I’ve coached clients to complete a tough project, they often start with a “push through to the end” mentality. For example, they’re willing to work ridiculous hours at the expense of their lives. While this might get the current project finished, it forms a negative relationship to project completion which only fuels procrastination in the future. You’ll want to create a positive relationship by taking frequent breaks. For example, when I’m writing, I stop every hour to do something unrelated to the book. This gives my body (and mind) a chance to rest and it allows me to return with a fresh set of eyes. Give yourself a break and enjoy the process.
6. Know your payoff. When the project is done, how will your life be improved? What’s the benefit of completion? For example, I know from my experience as a tax consultant that people feel a tremendous sense of relief when their taxes are finished (whether they owe money or not, by the way). There are many benefits to completing a project – the satisfaction of a job well done, the peace of mind that comes from no longer beating ourselves up for not acting, or the actual benefits like a tax refund, an organized room to enjoy, or reduced debt. Identify three benefits you’ll receive from completing your project, put them in writing, and keep them in view.
Life is full of projects, so why not learn to make peace with the process? This week, choose a project and follow the recap in our “Take Action Challenge” below.
Take Action Challenge
Print out the following winning formula. Then, choose a project that needs to be completed and apply these steps:1. Set a deadline
2. Use positive pressure
3. Set a start date
4. Put boundaries in place
5. Plan for frequent breaks
6. Identify the benefits and keep them in view
Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-10-bye-bye-procrastination-get-into-action/
Week 11 – Divine Love: Using the power of group mind to help Japan
Topic of the Week
Divine Love
This week, I’m in Vancouver for the I Can Do It conference held at the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Theater. The theater is full, with more than 2500 people attending, and the energy is electric. So many wonderful souls are here who are committed to becoming more conscious, loving people. It’s such a joy to share their company.In light of what’s happened in Japan, I’ve decided to use this newsletter as an invitation to join me in sending Divine Love to all those affected by the earthquake and tsunami. In my years of working as a writer and teacher, I have seen the evidence of the healing power of group mind and I know it works. It’s time to use this power now.
- Close your eyes.
- Imagine a beam of light originating from your heart.
- Direct this healing light out toward Japan and see it enveloping the whole nation.
- Keep sending this beam of Divine Love for at least sixty seconds.
Here’s something else you can do. A few years ago I interviewed a young man named Adam Dreamhealer for our monthly telegathering. Adam is able to use his power of long distance healing to assist those who are seriously ill. During our interview, Adam talked about the power of intention and, this morning, he sent me a video and asked me to share it with you. It’s a visualization for cooling the nuclear reactors in Japan. Please join me in using this simple visualization and see the reactors cooling. You’ll find it here.
I’m sending Divine Love to all those affected… and to you.
Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-11-divine-love-using-the-power-of-group-mind-to-help-japan/
Week 12 – Never Say Never: Lessons from Justin Bieber
Topic of the Week
Never Say Never
Last Friday night I went to the movies by myself (something I love to do) and saw the Justin Bieber film, Never Say Never. A good friend who thought I might find it an interesting study in the making of a Mover & Shaker recommended the movie to me. I’m so glad she did!And, like a true Mover & Shaker, his message to kids is empowering and sincere: never give up on your dreams.
As I walked out of the movie theater I felt inspired and thoroughly entertained. Who would have thought I’d learn so much from a seventeen year-old boy? And ultimately that’s the point: we’re never too old to learn and never too young to teach.
Now, off to download some Justin Bieber songs….
Take Action Challenge
This week, keep your eyes open for an unexpected teacher hidden in the body of a teenager .Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-12-never-say-never-lessons-from-justin-bieber/
Week 13 – Hope: Out of dire straits, good can come
Topic of the Week
Hope
This week, while I’m teaching our retreat at Miraval, I wanted to rerun one of my favorite stories. I hope you enjoy it…A month ago, Michael and I had thirty trees planted in our yard and as soon as they were in the ground, birds began to build nests. I was so excited to find a robin’s nest in the pine tree behind the barn, an oriole’s nest in the Norway spruce at the bend in the driveway, and a tiny wren’s nest in the juniper tree by our front door. Every day, as I left or entered the house, I would carefully peek into the wren’s nest to see how things were progressing. I couldn’t wait to hear the chirping of new babies once the eggs were hatched.
Much to my dismay, however, one afternoon when returning home from a meeting, I found a tiny baby lying on the ground with two eggs at its side – one broken, one not. Shocked, I gently moved a branch aside only to find another baby bird, alive, and hanging by its claw from the nest.
I stood by the tree on the verge of tears, so disappointed and concerned about what to do. I’d always heard that you should never touch a bird or its nest for fear that the mother would abandon her babies. But, knowing that I couldn’t just leave the scene like that, I rushed into the house, found a pair of latex gloves, and went back to at least give the baby birds a respectable end to their lives.
I oh-so-gently unhooked the baby from the nest and placed it inside. Then I picked up the unbroken egg and set it next to the baby. When I reached down to pick the other baby up off the ground to bury it, I discovered that it, too, was alive. So I carefully placed it into the nest next to its sibling. Then, I went into the house to tell Michael what happened. I assumed that the birds would at least die together huddled in their nest.
The next morning I braced myself as I left for a meeting. I prayed that the mother would come back, but I assumed the babies would have died overnight alone in the nest. Sure enough, when I looked inside, there was no mom to be found, however, I could see a tiny heartbeat on one of the birds. Feeling frustrated and so sad, I left for the day.
When I returned home, much to my astonishment, I found the mother wren sitting on top of her babies! I stood there, mouth open, stunned by the sight. I stared into the little mother’s eyes, feeling such joy. I thanked her for coming back and ran into the house to share the good news with Michael.
This morning, I was a bit nervous to check in on them to see what may have happened while I was gone. But, I’m happy to report that there are three babies in the nest! Yes, even the little egg hatched. The babies are covered with feathers and look like they’re almost ready to open their eyes to the world.
Finding these beautiful, little beings alive and well makes me so happy and fills me with hope that even out of the most dire circumstances, good can come. I hope it gives you a lift today, too, as head into your week.
P.S. – Since writing this newsletter a couple of years ago, I learned from several community members that you could, in fact, touch a bird without worrying about the mom abandoning her babies. How great is that!
Take Action Challenge
Look for the hope in your life – a sign that something is still alive, a chance to set things straight, or the opportunity to see the good in what appears to be a heartless situation.Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-13-hope-out-of-dire-straits-good-can-come/
Week 14 – Magic Moments: Notes from the desert
Topic of the Week
Magic Moments
I’ve just returned from a busy week of travel, where I had a chance to spend time with Louise Hay and one hundred women from around the world at Miraval Resort in Arizona. It was Louise’s first time teaching a workshop in almost twenty years and there were many magic moments. This week, I thought I’d share a bit of retreat wisdom with you. Here are a few of my notes:
- Problems come from nowhere and they return from whence they came unless you put a death grip on them.
- Develop a loving relationship with the objects around you. The next time you take a shower, for example, affirm: “It’s such a pleasure to take a shower. I am grateful for the people who designed and built this shower. The water feels so good and my life is blessed.”
- The single, most effective way to eliminate negative self-talk while at the same time strengthening your relationship with yourself is to do mirror work every day. Each time you look into a mirror, affirm: I love you (fill in your name). I really, really love you. You look so beautiful and you have the best smile. You are my ideal woman (or man) and I love you dearly.
- You’re living with yourself all day long. Make sure you’re in good company. Think good thoughts.
- Feeding your body good nutrition is a profound act of self-love. Start with one change. Eliminate sugar, wheat, or dairy for one week and notice how good you feel.
- Taking things that don’t belong to you – even a paperclip from work – is declaring to Life that you are undeserving.
- Not sure affirmations work? Try this: Walk down the street thinking, “I’m so beautiful and everybody loves me.” Then notice what happens.
- Take time throughout the day to breathe deeply, relax your shoulders and scalp, and send someone a loving thought.
- Forgiveness is a profound act of healing. Start by forgiving yourself.
Take Action Challenge
Choose one piece of wisdom from the list above and incorporate it into your life this week. Then, look for small positive changes that let you know you’re on the right track.Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-14-magic-moments-notes-from-the-desert/
Week 15 – The Hat Adventure: Reawaken your passion for life.
Topic of the Week
The Hat Adventure
I’m in the final stages of finishing my next book and decided to rerun a newsletter from January of 2008. This story generated a lot of mail and I hope it inspires you!Reawakening You
This is a story about a hat. Not just any hat. A special hat that holds a secret message.The week before Christmas, Michael and I were shopping at a local TJ Maxx store. While in the women’s department, I came across a beautifully made black and white tweed hat that had a modest brim with a pleated band around the top and a big plaid bow. I’ve always been drawn to hats, especially classic designs and this one was unusually smart. I immediately tried the hat on and it fit like a glove :). I fell in love with it until I looked at the price. It cost way more than I felt comfortable paying. Disappointed, I put the hat back and we finished our shopping.
As the holidays rolled around, I noticed that every now and then I would think about the hat. I’d remember the classic design, the feel of the fabric, and the way it felt on my head. I thought it strange that a hat would occupy such space in my mind since I’m not a big fan of shopping for clothes or accessories.
This past Saturday I woke up thinking about the hat again. Since I had the morning to myself, I decided to go back to TJ Maxx to see if I could find it on sale. I figured that if it had stayed with me this long, I at least owed it to myself to have another look. So, off I went. When I arrived at the store, I browsed around a bit and then went to the section where I first found it. But, it was gone. I searched through other areas in the store, but couldn’t find it anywhere.
Being a persistent gal when I get an idea in my mind, I decided to visit the dressing room to inquire further. The woman working there said she thought they had moved the dress hats to a new part of the store. “Great!” I thought. “Maybe it’s there!” I raced to her suggested section, but the hat was nowhere to be found.
In a last ditch effort to appease my inner longing, I asked another employee if she had seen any dress hats. She looked at me with big brown eyes, smiled and said, “Big or small hat?” Realizing that she didn’t speak English, I attempted to describe the hat as best I could. She waved for me to follow her to a storage room in the rear of the building. As I eagerly waited outside hoping for good news, I heard her repeat over and over again, “big hat, big hat, big hat,” to someone in the back. Suddenly, the door burst open and there stood this sweet woman with a carriage full of dress hats. Perched prominently on top of the pile? My black and white hat!
I took it from the carriage as if it were made of glass, thanked the woman, and headed for the front of the store. Looking at the price tag, I was happy to discover that the hat was now 30% off so I paid for it and headed to my car.
I placed the hat on the front seat of the car next to me and stared at it for a long time. While the hat was beautiful, it wasn’t spectacular, and I wondered what in the world was so darn compelling about it. That’s when it hit me – this hat was trying to tell me something. So I asked it. Yes, as strange as it sounds, I looked over at the hat and said out loud, “Hey hat, what are you trying to tell me?”
As I waited for an answer, tears filled my eyes. A memory flashed into my mind of being eighteen years old, dressed in a purple dress with a matching hat and coat. It was a time in my life when I loved clothes, shopping and putting outfits together with the right accessories. As I revisited that time in my life, I realized something important – this wasn’t about wearing this hat; it was about reawakening a part of myself I had put to sleep long ago. It was about resurrecting my love of fashion, design, fabric, color and art in the form of clothes. It was about honoring the part of me who loves to watch Project Runway over and over again, who cuts out images of classic outfits from magazines when making a treasure map, and who loves to imagine creating beautiful clothes.
Now, am I going to stop writing books and become a fashion designer? Unlikely. But I am going to do this: I’m going to give that part of me permission to rise up and be heard, to be seen, and to be taken seriously. All of this because of a hat.
So how about it? What part of you are you ready to reawaken? Take the challenge below and find out…
Take Action Challenge
This week, keep your eyes open for an image, symbol, or object that reflects an inner part of you that longs to be expressed. Notice when something catches your eye in a window, when an image online or on TV makes you do a double take, or when a picture in a magazine pulls at your heart. Bring this image into your life and keep it in view. If the image or object could speak, what would it tell you?Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-15-the-hat-adventure-reawaken-your-passion-for-life/
Week 16 – Signs & Symbols: Honoring what you love
Topic of the Week
Signs & Symbols
Today’s newsletter is the follow up to last week’s hat story. I hope it inspires you to do something to express your passion this week!Honoring What You Love
I’ve spent the week reading the wonderful stories and examples of how people are paying attention to the signs, symbols, and experiences that reawaken their passions. The stories are varied and provide great inspiration for paying attention to what shows up in your life every day!One reader realized that her passion for watching Elvis Presley movies was a sign that she needed to sing and dance a lot more often. Another could now see that a love of National Geographic magazines reflected a hunger to be in the beauty of nature on a regular basis. One woman admitted that she feels terrific after cleaning out her car and that she loves creating order and cleanliness (I suggested she open her own auto detailing shop!).
Here are a few others:
- A commercial for helping injured dogs sparks a need to do something more concrete to support the care of animals.
- Watching the movie “A Little Romance,” inspires a trip to Paris to fulfill a childhood dream (and who knows where that will lead!).
- A reoccurring dream of running a wellness center challenges one woman to honor her love of teaching healthy eating habits to kids.
- Beautiful earrings found at a craft fair reawakens a love of architecture and a passion for the energy of space.
Okay, I know that many of us feel like there’s not enough time, we can’t afford to quit our day jobs, or that we’re missing vital training or experience. But, I think it’s something more…
1. Forgetfulness. We get lulled into a comfortably numb place by the busyness of our lives and forget what matters to our soul. Instead, we need to remember to keep our eyes and ears open for clues.
2. Not enough space. Yes, most of us do lead busy lives, myself included, but ask yourself: What small thing might you let go of to create a little space in your life to pursue the desire that tugs at your heart? I say “small” because too often we imagine having to make a huge life change to accommodate this need. Anything big feels scary – and undoable. So, make it small, easy and doable. Where might you find a little space to breathe life into your passion?
3. Lack of faith. What if I told you that there was a force greater than any fear you possess that will open doors and windows that lead you to do what your soul longs to do? Well, there is, but you’ll need to take action to ignite this force and operate on faith until you see the evidence of its presence.
All it takes is one little step to get started. If you love animals, visit a local shelter and volunteer for one hour. If dancing is what makes your heart soar, make a CD of your favorite ten songs and find a place to let your body move. If you love the energy of space or the beauty of architecture, buy a magazine this afternoon and read it cover to cover. Just do something!
Finally, while our community is largely made up of women, we have many wonderful men who also follow along. I received the following email from Dan and wanted to share his story with you. It echoed what many of you shared in your emails – a realization that upgrading your wardrobe was important to your soul.
“My name is Dan. I loved your story about the hat that woke up your inner 18-year-old. I thought that your story was very unique for me. It struck a chord. In the two weeks prior to reading your story, I had gone shopping for new clothing and accessories. I had decided that I was going to make myself happy. I had wanted a new wardrobe. I bought some shoes and some shirts that I really wanted. On the way home, I stopped at a local Mongolian Barbecue restaurant. I got out of my car and started toward the door and stopped myself. What was I doing? I returned to my car, got out my favorite new shirt and shoes, and changed them in the car. I went inside and it felt super to look and feel great! The only thing that would have made this experience better would have been to have a special someone with me. That wasn’t in the cards that day, but I will say the moment was priceless for me – alone or not. Thank you again for sharing.”
Bravo to Dan for taking one small step. Will you follow his lead?
Take Action Challenge
One thing. That’s all it takes to keep your passion alive. What one thing will you do this week to make your soul happy?Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-16-signs-symbols-honoring-what-you-love/
Week 17 – Speak Kindly: Stop beating yourself up
Topic of the Week
Speak Kindly
Last week I had a conversation with a friend who was disappointed in herself for not achieving a goal that she intended to accomplish. As I listened to her talk about what she could have done differently, I was amazed at how hard she was on herself. Really hard. Isn’t it strange how we actually think that berating ourselves will somehow make a positive difference? On the contrary, this negative habit usually keeps us stuck and unhappy. Negative self-talk is always a roadblock on the path to success.To gain a bit of perspective, imagine saying the following to a teenager who was attempting to fulfill an important goal:
- You don’t have what it takes.
- You’ll never get it right.
- Lower your expectations.
- You’re not good enough.
- It’s already been done. Don’t bother.
- You should have accomplished this goal by now.
.As you continue to live your life and to invest in your personal growth, please remember the following:
- Be patient with yourself. If it takes you longer to get where you want to go, there might be a reason for it. If you could rise above your life and view it from a higher perspective you’d see exactly why things happen as they do. Allow for Divine timing. It works
- Ask for help and guidance. I still catch myself trying to go it alone during the most challenging of times. Slowly but surely I am learning that isolation not only slows down my progress, it makes me feel incredibly alone. You don’t need to suffer in silence. Give someone an opportunity to help you. They’ll get to experience the joy and pleasure that comes from being a generous spirit.
- Embrace your disappointment and begin again. You will always face disappointment when you allow yourself to want more from life. And you can live through it. As you face disappointment and come out the other side, you’ll develop self-trust – a deep inner knowing that you can handle anything that comes your way.
- Speak kindly to yourself. Think of yourself as the teenager in the example above. When you’re feeling discouraged the last thing you need is a critical parent beating you up. Instead, give yourself a gentle, loving reminder that your goals aren’t nearly as important as your relationship to yourself.
Take Action Challenge
This week, pay attention to how you speak to yourself. The moment you catch yourself being mean or unhelpful, counteract the negative message with positive, self-accepting words of encouragement. Try these statements:- I have exactly what it takes to succeed.
- I appreciate every single thing I do to make life better.
- I am so blessed to spend my life with me
- I am strong and resilient.
- Everything is happening exactly as it should.
- I have unwavering trust in Divine timing.
Remember, your thoughts direct the course of your life. Make sure you’re headed in the right direction :-)
Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-17-speak-kindly-stop-beating-yourself-up/
Week 18 – Self Care at Work: Play by new rules
Topic of the Week
Self Care at Work
Recently I received an e-mail from a reader who felt nervous about moving forward with a new, exciting job offer. She worried about how her life would be effected by making the transition from a healthy, more balanced lifestyle, to what she assumed would be a fast-paced, demanding schedule. My advice to her was simple – since you call the shots, play by new rules.Whether you’re starting a new job, running your own business, or working for a company already, you have a choice about how you work. You can make your self-care a priority and be more productive and effective, or you can continue to believe that a sixty-hour work week and a frenetic pace will bring you more success.
Although there are many goals that drive an organization, the primary goal of business is to make money. That’s just a basic fact. In order to achieve the company objectives and keep people employed, the organization needs to increase their bottom line (profit) on a consistent basis. That’s why most companies get worried when employees start talking about work/life balance issues. They make the mistake of believing that supporting self-care strategies at work will promote laziness, selfishness and unproductive activities. This may be true for some employees, but experience has shown me that the best and the brightest people always end up producing better results.
It is a myth to believe that working long hours at a frantic pace makes you productive. By now most of us recognize that overwork and stress cause everything from a lack of creativity to stress-related illnesses. Taking better care of ourselves makes good business sense. If you don’t believe me, try an experiment. Incorporate some of the new rules below for the next 30 days and see what happens. If you adopt some of these rules and put them into practice you’ll find that you not only get more done at work, you create more time for your life.
New Rules for 21st Century Business
- I take lunch everyday and do something unrelated to work. For example, I get out of the office and take a walk, listen to a relaxation tape, or visit with a friend.
- I work reasonable hours. On most days, I arrive at _____ and leave by _____.
- I schedule “breathing room” every day so I can step back, re-evaluate my priorities and be sure that I am working on what really matters.
- I do whatever it takes to create a healthy work environment. I keep my office free of clutter and if necessary, I use a clean air filter, full spectrum lighting, and I always keep a reserve of water nearby.
- I have an “Absolute Yes” list for work (a 3″ x 5″ index card with my top five priorities listed in order of importance) and I refer to it often.
- I train myself to consistently look for ways to delegate work in order to empower others while I honor my Absolute Yes list.
- I hire only highly competent, talented people to support my efforts.
- I ask family and friends to honor my work time by eliminating non-essential personal calls and interruptions.
- I coordinate my work schedule to remove distractions and interruptions. For example, I design blocks of uninterrupted, focused time and I only check voicemail and e-mail twice a day (keep breathing on this one).
- I stop taking on more than I can handle. When asked to take on a project, I check to be sure that I can complete the assignment without suffering or sacrificing my self-care.
To ensure your success, you might ask a co-worker, fellow self-employed friend, or partner to try the 30-day experiment with you. If you work for someone else, be sure to let your boss and/or co-workers know ahead of time that you’ll be using these new rules to challenge yourself to be more focused and productive during the day. Invite them to join you in discovering how self-care at work translates into bottom line results.
Take Action Challenge
Create your own 21st Century job profile. Cut and paste the above list into a file and customize it to fit your needs. When you have your new rules in place, print it out and hang it on the wall in your office. Review the list each day and pay close attention to how your workday and personal life improve over time.Link : http://www.cherylrichardson.com/newsletters/week-18-self-care-at-work-play-by-new-rules/
No comments:
Post a Comment