What About My Life, Do I Love?

So, think about it, what parts of your life, the way it is right now, do you love? If you are like some people I have talked to recently, the initial response is "Very little". If, after some consideration, that is still your response, perhaps it is time to look at what you can or should do differently.


In recent posts, I have written about your life wheel and its various spokes. If you have read those, perhaps you have already begun to identify which of your spokes needs some adjusting. If not, you may wish to go back and read those posts. Once you have identified the spokes that are lacking, or out of balance, you may want to begin thinking about what is actually wrong or missing from that part of your life. For example, if it is the Physical aspect, perhaps you actually need to get off the couch and start that exercise regimen you had talked about or remove some of the tempting sweets from your kitchen cabinets. Perhaps you need to reconnect with your spirituality or find ways to add joy to your life. Only you can determine which part(s) of your life wheel need some improvement(s).


Then you would begin to determine what you could or should be doing differently to make that part of your life more to your liking. The more details you can add to that plan, the better. Your plan should include not only the how, but the when you will do whatever steps you develop. Try to be specific in both pieces - the more details you can include, the more likely you will know how to proceed and will recognize when you have attained what you were seeking. Does your plan require the input or cooperation of someone else in order to succeed? If so, also figure out how you can most likely get their 'buy in'. Or consider if there is a way to succeed without their involvement, if necessary.


Also, try to use words or phrases that can be quantified in some way. Indicating that you want to be 'happy' is hard to measure. However, indicating that you need to laugh, at least once each day, that is measurable. Some people find that it helps to make signs regarding their new plan and post them around the house - in plain sight. That way they are reminded of their goals frequently. Some people just write them in their appointment book or journal so when they look at what they have planned for the day, or did for the day, they can determine if they are moving in the right direction or need to work at it a bit more. There is at least one song with lyrics - 'you've only got one life to live..." I encourage you to make the most of what you have.





Mary Ann Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in private practice providing coaching and counseling for life's transitions; including a career change or job search, planning for retirement, coping with a job loss, planning to re-enter the work force or college, non-retirement planning, and other life transitions. She meets with individuals in person and via telephone. Ms. Davis is certified as a Master Career Counselor (MCC) by the National Career Development Association, a Life/Work Counselor (L/WC) by the National Employment Counseling Association, and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC). For more information on her services, please visit her web site at http://www.yourcareerplan.com/.



To contact Mary Ann, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential message or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.