The heart lies and the head plays tricks

"The heart lies and the head plays tricks on us, but the eyes see true. Look with your eyes. Hear with your ears. Taste with your mouth. Smell with your nose. Feel with your skin. Then comes the thinking, afterward, and in a way knowing the truth." ~ George R.R. Martin, Novelist/Screenwriter

True strength is not about force

How do we make strong choices in life? How do we pull from inside us resources to do the hard things, the best things, the good things? It requires inner strength. Here are some brief, excellent thoughts about how we do this: Strength by Kent Nerburn

How to Stay Encouraged

1.     Be careful what you think.  Thoughts direct us, influence our choices, color our mood.  Try to see some good in the day, in yourself and in others.  Think of things and people you love.

2.     Smile.  I know that sounds like a corny bromide but it actually helps keep us cheerful.  Give a friendly smile to four or five unexpected recipients today.  No words, just a genuine smile.

3.     Focus on what motivates you.  Stay away from spending all day mentally consumed with duties, routines, obligations.  Get in touch with what really fuels your energy.  Follow today whatever gives you a sense of eagerness.

4.     Reach out.  If you are going through a really tough time, call or have lunch with a trusted friend.  Talk about what’s bothering you.  They don’t need to solve your problems.  Just having someone to listen always helps.

5.     Be good to yourself.  When we’re discouraged we often feel a lack of confidence.  Sometimes we dabble in self loathing and decide if we were better we’d be able to handle all of this.  Or we wouldn’t even be having these problems.  None of that today.  Extend some grace to yourself.  Treat yourself to something you enjoy.  There’s no such thing as selfishness when you’re feeling a bit down.

© 2011 Timothy Moody