Self-Awareness: Bridging Motivation to SHINE into Daily Habit

I have the pleasure of meeting, working with, and learning from many people in my life.  I believe that it is a choice to do so, as well as opportunity to grow and seek manners in which I can positively impact the world around me.  I am an active writer and journal daily.  I make the choice to do this for many reasons, the main value being that it moves me closer to being the very best person I can possibly be, building the most impactful and meaningful legacy each and every day.  At first, I didn’t realize the roots the process of journaling had in scientific principles.  Very quickly I realized and reaped the growth benefits of reflection by way of a journal.  I am able to identify patterns in my thoughts, behaviours, health, and the impact those were having on other’s behaviours.  It’s has become one of the most powerful 10 minutes of my day. 

As such, today I would like to focus on what I have learned and believe to be fundamental in a quest for health, success and the ability to thrive and truly SHINE.  For those who have read the book, “The Five Love Languages”, by Gary D. Chapman, you will appreciate my reference to your “bucket”.  Imagine for a moment a bucket that is theoretically used to contain your happiness, contentment, health, and overall wellbeing.  When this bucket is full or overflowing, you are “on top of the world”, your life is fantastic, you feel great in mind and body, and you feel as though nothing can get in your way or stop you.  When you’re bucket is empty or close to empty, this is when you are feeling down, negative, and generally unwell in mind and body.

This is where I would like to begin; with that analogy and frame of reference in mind.  Yes, in theory who wouldn’t want a full bucket?  It makes sense intuitively; however, is it really true?  Continue reading...