Just Ask!

It totally amazes me how often I get what I want when I simply ask. And how often I choose not to ask for what I need or want out of fear or embarrassment or a sense of unworthiness.

I think that part of saying yes to life involves expressing our needs in order for them to be met, if possible. Let me be clear that I'm not advocating a demanding stance, or manipulation for the purposes of cajoling or pressuring others to bend to my will. I'm simply suggesting that we say what we want, clearly and honestly, and with an open heart. It's astounding how often such requests are answered positively.

And yet fear intrudes, or social restraints against being greedy, or needy, or rude. I think that one of the greatest things we can do as human beings is to be honest and open to others about our needs. It feels risky because the response may not be what we hope, but in risking the unknown we open ourselves to opportunities that otherwise may never be available to us. And in opening to others we invite reciprocation, which creates connection, and the comfort of mutual support and understanding.

All this and more by just asking.

The Small Stuff Is Big!

A German Press Agency story says the small stuff we do is big when it comes to happiness. l agree that some simple strategies like thinking positive and being thankful are likely to result in a happier life, that physical activity helps, and some states of mind are best avoided. But a more encompassing, universal strategy can go a long way to setting the tone for a day, a week or a lifetime. That strategy is conscious intention.

To start each day with an intention that reflects our core beliefs, and that we have chosen specifically to create the richest possible life for ourselves is very powerful. Imagine leaving home each day with the basic intention to have the happiest day possible! And imagine remembering that intention throughout the day as we experience the various irritations and annoyances that, collectively, we turn into 'a bad day' because of how we react.

We already have everything we need to be happier and it's all in our attitude. Even in the worst circumstances there is potential for choosing a happier response. I love that the word creation has the same letters as the word reaction. It reminds me that we can craft seriously different responses from the same situations.

I choose to live a life of creation rather than reaction! And I know from experience that doing so results in an incrementally richer life.