At times, our lives just stream by and we fail to pause and reflect on whether or not we are where we want to be. We quite simply are where our lives have brought us. The idea of taking back the reins of our lives seems like one of those ideal images of the future rather than what we can have right now. Responsibilities, obligations, commitments or any other tag we put on the “stuff” that fills our calendars and days have become more like strictures rather than structure.
When I need to re-center and bring my best self back into focus so that I can function with the highest levels of creativity and purpose, I look to these ten principals to guide me:
- The only rules that apply are those that I have accepted. By accepting (or not accepting) any guidelines, I am also accepting responsibility for my choices.
- Fear is not a bad thing. Fear is a healthy thing. Because it means I respect what I am undertaking: Respect of consequences and acceptance of responsibility. Taking action with accountability makes fear a friend, a guidepost for where I need to pay attention.
- Fun is a good thing. I aspire always to have more fun in everything I do.
- My vision for the future is my decision touchstone. I recognize that what I do today is forming my tomorrow. I do not think about what might have been. I act on what will be.
- My surroundings reflect my values and appreciation for beauty.
- A curious nature is my most valuable resource. My most powerful tool is the right question.
- I do not think in terms of success or failure. I think in terms of action and effort.
- A change of scenery is often the absolute best way to achieve a change of perspective.
- I invest time as a resource. I do not try to manage my time. My priorities are how I determine how my time is spent.
- Creating value for others is the most important contribution I bring to the world. I understand that I must focus on their need vs. just what I want to do to have significance.
When things seem a bit out of kilter, by going through these principals I can always find the one that brings everything else back into focus.
What would you put in your manifesto?
