NO PAIN NO GAIN

If you ever want to improve on something, you need to work at it. There is no easy way through life without ever having to put our soul into doing, into applying, into practising – those very things that promotes a ‘growth mindset’ and ‘conscious leadership’.

It is not enough to just read e.g. quotes, inspirational or motivational books, attend inspiring seminars etc., without having to apply those underlying principles. I am referring to some basic underlying principles such as ACCEPTANCE, GRATITUDE and HUMILITY. Those principles that govern how we live our lives on a deeper and more meaningful level. These principles that strengths your learning, your practice, and enables you to take responsibility for your actions (rather than blaming others).

The results are evident in the application – taking some form of action (in doing), otherwise things remain the same. If they do change, it may just be on a superficial level. Those principles have in many cases been tried and tested by yourself (without being fully conscious), and others that you respect and admire.

The challenges which we face are in the application of those fundamental principles (apparent in our materialistic world), which are difficult to live by let alone practise. That is our real test!

 

EVERY LITTLE HELPS

‘Every little helps’ happens to be a large retailer’s strap-line. How very true it is when we look at the spiritual aspects of these simple words in helping us in tackling our more complex challenges. Those very words have taught me to take things one-step at a time. Also, that the storms of life does get better, based on those little things that we choose to do each day. Whenever we shift our focus even for a few seconds on something that lightens our anxiety, could be all we need in helping us to make the necessary adjustments.  

Smiling
I make every effort to smile. I am not talking about faking a smile, because people can tell the difference when it is a fake smile by your facial expression, as well as your vibrations or energy too. Smiling makes me feel good, and equally expands the vibrations of my positive energy to others. Whenever you smile, you are lifting someone else’s mood by sharing and spreading your seed of light. 

Greeting
A genuine greeting along with a smile is so uplifting for the giver and receiver. It makes the heart smile. I look forward to my weekly exchange of greetings and waves with our local Refuse Collectors. I exchange greetings with the Milkman each time we meet, and occasions will stop for a brief chat. I exchange greetings with Parents and their Children on their way to school.  What a fabulous way to start the day!

Praise 
I will give praise when it is necessary, without any expectations. No hidden agenda! Praising others is encouraging, enabling you and others to grow in spirit and love even more. So be kind! Be encouraging!

Gratitude
In showing my gratitude – deep gratitude and not just lip service, when someone does anything for me.  On occasions, I would even go to the extent of expressing my heartfelt gratitude with a hug. It is my way of expressing thanks, love and respect.

These 4 simple though powerful steps, requires a certain attitude towards yourself and others. One which is open, non-judgemental and without pre-existing assumptions about others. Rather much like the slogan, adds value, quality and service. ‘Every little helps’, when practised regularly creates a life of love and light for you and others. Upon everything, it makes you feel good.