Sometimes it's OK to Assume

Ok, well normally making assumptions is considered a no, no. However, take a look at the quote I ran across today. Not that these assumptions will completely change your world, but maybe just spending a minute with each of these thoughts may make you look at your day a little differently.

"I have also found that by making four simple assumptions in our lives we can immediately begin leading a more balanced, integrated, powerful life. They are simple–one for each part of our nature–but I promise you that if you do them consistently, you will find a new wellspring of strength and integrity to draw on when you need it most.

• For the body–assume you've had a heart attack; now live accordingly.
• For the mind–assume the half-life of your profession is two years; now prepare accordingly.
• For the heart–assume everything you say about another, they can overhear; now speak accordingly.
• For the spirit–assume you have a one-on-one visit with your Creator every quarter; now live accordingly. "

Stephen Covey

‘Champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside of them - a desire, a dream, a vision. They have last-minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, they have to have the skill, and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.’ — Mohammad Ali

You may have already seen this video, it seems that Thanksgiving is a perfect time to take another look, be grateful for all that you have and to remember always that the everything you need to be happy lives inside of you. You will be inspired thanks to a YouTube video clip with a cheesy soundtrack. The video is below, and the story behind it is amazing.

Dick Hoyt (now 65) and his son Rick have competed together in more than 900 endurance events, including six Ironman triathlons and 64 marathons (with a best time of 2:40:47). In itself, that’s pretty remarkable, but there’s more: Rick is a quadraplegic with cerebral palsy. He can’t talk or walk, and he’s confined to a wheelchair. For every race, he has been pushed (in a wheelchair), pulled (in an inflatable boat) or carried (on a specially-built bike) by his dad. When they started racing together, Dick was in his forties and he’d never run before. “Then it was me who was handicapped,'’ he said. “I was sore for two weeks.'’ Dick went on to run the Boston marathon in a time that was just 35 minutes off world record pace. Pushing a wheelchair. I’ve never felt more humbled, or more inspired. You can read more at the Team Hoyt website.

10 Ways To Manage Stress
Removing Stress From Your Life
1. We seldom concretely identify those situation and people we find stressful. To understand what brings on stress in your life, try to maintain a heightened awareness of your physical and mental feelings for a week. When you feel your heart racing, your muscles tightening, or your stomach contracting, ask yourself why. Keep a list of those things that trigger stressful feelings.

2. Make relaxation part of your daily routine. Deep breathing and simple stretches can be performed both at home and in the office. Taking a few minutes to sooth your soul by savoring a cup of tea or grounding yourself can center you, giving you the ability to deal with stress more effectively.

3. It can be difficult to let go of worries or thoughts that provoke anxiety. One technique involves dissipating stressful thoughts before they get out of control. Concentrate on the thought and firmly say "Stop" to prevent the thought from recycling itself in your mind. In doing so, you will be free of the thought's power to influence your mood.

4. Get back to nature. Enjoying a relaxing day out of doors can help you feel more calm and balanced during your normal routine. A mountain hike or day at the beach can be a wonderful stress reducer. If you simply can't get away, try listening to a CD of nature sounds or spending a few minutes in front of a sunny window.

5. Each day, give yourself the gift of doing one thing you truly enjoy. It may be writing, gardening, dancing, walking, or watching a good film. Doing something you like every day will improve your quality of life and frame of mind, making you better able to handle stress as it arises.

6. Assess your priorities and learn to say no. Determine what activities you don't want to or can't do at home or at work, and, if you can, stop doing them. Don't overload your schedule by committing to new responsibilities because you are afraid to say no. Instead, dedicate yourself only to the activities that bring you joy.

7. Guided imagery can help you stay relaxed during periods of stress. Take a moment to imagine yourself in a peaceful setting that feels safe and nurturing, perhaps somewhere you have felt lighthearted and calm in the past. Concentrate on your setting until you feel your muscles and mind relax.

8. Exercise affects both the body's energy level and the brain's chemistry by encouraging the release of beneficial hormones. It can also help you let go some of the tension and pent-up energy associated with stress by giving you a healthy outlet for your feelings. The mood-elevating benefits of exercise last for days, but regular exercise is the most uplifting.

9. Take a break. When you're faced with any type of stress, stop for a moment to collect your thoughts. Breathe slowly and deeply for ten seconds and try to clear your mind of unpleasant thoughts. You'll still be facing the same situation, but your outlook will be clearer.

10. When you have compiled a list of stressful triggers, compile a second list outlining your personal methods for dealing with stress. Though unexpected or frustrating situations can seem overwhelming, you have the power to cope. Recognizing your strengths can make dealing with stress seem easier.