Tuesday, November 24, 2009

One Step at a Time

An analogy that I read recently really resonated with me. It's about taking that first step to a goal that seems bigger than you, daunting, or unattainable. I believe this is similar to an analogy written in the book, "The Secret".
So, in life we have our goals that we set for ourself. Lose 50 lbs...find the love of my life...start my own business...get that college degree. These are all big goals that take time to attain. Let's say you know your ultimate destination, but can only see what's directly in front of you. The 5 lbs. that dropped off the scale this month, the few dates you've had with interesting people, the good ideas you have for starting your business--you get the picture.
Picture yourself driving in a car from New York to Los Angeles in the dark. You can only see what your headlights light up, perhaps 200 feet of the road in front of you. The only way to see the next 200 feet is to keep moving forward. So, even though your destination is to travel 3,000 miles, having faith in your direction and believing that you'll get there, you'll be fine with just seeing those 200 feet at a time.
With those big goals (that are so worth the risk), we don't get to see the entire path, just a little piece of the destination. So, I encourage us all to take a step even if we can't see anything beyond it.
Here's something I've been guilty of in the past: thinking that not choosing a path and direction will keep my options open. True for the short term. But in the long term it does nothing to put me in the right direction to get to my goals.

On the personal level:
It's almost Turkey Day and I'm really looking forward to it. There will be volleyball, lots of friends, food, and wine. I have many people to be thankful for in life and I have taking a risk two years ago and moving to Austin to be thankful for, too. While it's not been without some hardships, it's been essential to my growth and happiness as a person. I'm really looking forward to starting school soon and putting my nose in the books.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

The Vision of Life's Purpose

There's a greater tragedy than dying. It's the feeling of going through life and never having lived. If you're able to find your life's purpose, what you do with your time satisfies your soul and I believe you're at a greater advantage for living a life with meaning.

I have a job that is very meaningful and provides value to the world. In many ways, my job has been great to me. It's allowed me to learn how to build meaningful relationships, establish some "family" members from bonds that have developed through such a personal relationship and it's cultivated a deeper understanding of this very mysterious thing we live in: our body. In a lot of ways I've felt I've come to an end. I've done some amazing things in life athletically and professionally. From playing a sport professionally myself, to helping several people shed hundreds of pounds of excess weight, to helping them with pain issues that doctors couldn't solve.

I could easily say I love my job, but still feel unfulfilled. There's something greater out there for me and I can feel it. I've felt that way for awhile, but I think that disenchantment is a feeling that many of us get and don't really follow or oblige. We just think, no no, keep treading along, the water is just fine.

One of the first realizations I had was when I was noticing that when friends, peers, strangers on the street, whoever, ask me questions like, "hey, how can i get bigger arms, flatter abs, rid of my love handles?" You know, typical questions, my response is always to first roll my eyes, second is to scoff, and third is to talk about injury prevention. Injury prevention? Ummm, the person just asked about working out, they don't have pain! But, in the very forefront of my mind, I think about all the little stresses that add up when people exercise and how if they don't do therapy to release the stress they will have pain soon enough! Stress...therapy...this is going somewhere. Take that same "whoever" and have them tell me that they have pain somewhere...their knee, back, shoulder and I immediately drop everything and ask to feel it, see it, I ask questions to offer healing advice. I'm engaged, time doesn't exist, speak w/ passion, have feelings of intense value, it's honest, I'm very much myself, it's so...easy. Just the other day, a client casually mentioned her amazement at whenever she has pain, how easily I just "know" exactly what she means and how to fix it. And I think, I'm happy to help!

So, going back to disenchantment, it's one thing to realize a passion and life purpose, and it's one thing to accept the rigors of what it takes to be able to get to that level. To do that thing that you love to do! I have recently accepted that I'm willing to do what it takes to reach that doctorate goal that I've set for myself. I see a very clear purpose and vision.

My vision is bigger than my current abilities. My vision is to be able to heal all pain that is brought to me. I want to be able to fix what the medical doctor cannot see, what the xray does not show, what the MRI says will require surgery, what science cannot prove. I want to teach every individual how to move their body with a better functional purpose and how to eradicate their pain through a better lifestyle.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Assessing Core Values

We are all entitled to our own belief system. It's essential to discovering the person you currently are and the person you want to be. There are times in life I've felt disconnected from myself and it was perhaps in these times that I wasn't living in accordance with my values.

I took some time to assess my own values and write them down. It makes it easier for me to come back to these beliefs in times of change and challenge and make sure that I'm not doing anything to affect my belief system. What are your core values and how do they help you combat the challenges you face in the world? How do they enable you to help the world around you?

Some of my core values:
I will always be honest with myself, for that is what helps me be honest with others.
I will always speak my mind and speak the truth.
I will give love to everyone in my life.
I will forgive, let go, and not hold any ill will to anyone in the world.
I will take responsibility for my actions and words.
I will have compassion for all living things.
I will maintain the ability to laugh at myself.
I will step outside of my comfort zone and challenge my mind and body with new adventures.

Think about some of your values...how do your relationships, lifestyle, and work fulfill them?


Thursday, July 2, 2009

Control

"Within each of us lies the power of our consent to health and sickness, to riches and poverty, to freedom and to slavery. It is we who control these, and not another." R. Bach

Monday, June 29, 2009

Second Chance for Opportunity

How do you feel about second chances? Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt someone deserved a second chance with you? Have you ever needed that second chance yourself? I hope if you found yourself on the latter end of that question, that you were afforded the opportunity and took advantage of it.
I'm constantly reminding myself to take advantage of opportunities I see around me everyday. Think about how many decisions we make everyday. Many of them are automatic: Take shower, brush teeth. Wear black pants. Eat eggs. Drink water. And then there are the decisions and paths we take that have a little more meaning and require much more attention. Like friendships and other relationships, taking a certain job, investing in a certain stock, choosing a specific job in life, etc. What if we wrote down all the decisions that we've made throughout our entire life to get us to where we are today? Even the decisions we've made in the last year...wow...how many would you kick yourself over or feel very proud of?
We sometimes find ourselves in a position where a decision we made leads us to a place where we feel the need for a "do over" or, as I mentioned before, a second chance. A second chance at something we may have previously had an opportunity to do before and never took advantage of because the situation or timing wasn't right.
I've had the same job for over eight years and have always enjoyed what I do. I started personal training at age 23 and never took the opportunity to go to college. I felt I had found my career for life and if I one day tired of it, I could find a similar profession or maybe just stay at home to run a household and manage children. But over the last year as I've seen the world we live in change and the way I want to live change with it, I've decided to take advantage of a second chance afforded to me. I'm going to go back to school and get a degree. I'm truly excited for this adventure. While it's hard to imagine now, I can see this in my future, "Sorry, can't go out tonight, I have a chemistry test in the morning." Whoa.

Thursday, May 7, 2009

The Wrath of Fear

Ani Pema Chodron is well known for her down to earth interpretation of Tibetan Buddhism to Westerners. She is the resident teacher at Gampo Abbey, a Tibetan Monastery for Westerners and she has authored several books. The following is a small spark from "When Things Fall Apart"...

"Once there was a young warrior. Her teacher told her that she had to do battle with fear. She didn’t want to do that. It seemed too aggressive; it was scary; it seemed unfriendly. But the teacher said she had to do it and gave her instructions for the battle.

The day arrived. The student warrior stood on one side, and fear stood on the other. The warrior was feeling very small, and fear was looking big and wrathful. They both had their weapons. The young warrior roused herself and went to fear, prostrated three times, and asked: “May I have permission to go into battle with you?” Fear said: “Thank you for showing me so much respect that you ask permission. “Then the young warrior said: “How can I defeat you?”

Fear replied: “My weapons are that I talk fast, and I get very close to your face. Then you get completely unnerved, and you do whatever I say. If you don’t do what I tell you, I have no power. You can listen to me, and you can have respect for me. You can even be convinced by me. But if you don’t do what I say, I have no power.”

In that way, the student warrior learned how to defeat fear. "

I'll remember this simple lesson to listen and respect my own fears, but I will not allow fear to guide me. Fear likes apathy. Apathy does not allow me to grow.

On the personal level:
Tonight is the fundraiser for the Blondes vs. Brunettes charity football game that is coming up on May 16th. I'm really excited for the game. I've changed my workouts and frame of mind for the last 2 weeks in preparation! We'll be making a positive impact for Alzheimers research (looking to raise $50k) and putting on a good show for the guests. I feel confident that the blondes are gonna get the big win because as a blondie, I can tell you, that we just have more fun! ; )

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

A person's self image is the mental picture, generally of a kind that is quite resistant to change, that depicts not only details that are potentially available to objective investigation by others (height, weight, hair color, sex, I.Q. score, etc.), but also items that have been learned by that person about himself or herself, either from personal experiences or by internalizing the judgments of others.

Self-Image may refer to: how the individual see themself, how others see the individual, how the individual perceives others see them.

What is important to remember here is that we are in control of all the forms of self image as an adult. It's important to be cognizant of what's truly positive and what's truly critical. How you view yourself is likely different from how others view you. Be aware of your biggest supporters and critics. If someone is speaking of you negatively, be subjective in deciding if the claims are valid. If someone is speaking of you positively, remember to be appreciative (not self depricating) of their kind words or actions.

Everyone is beautiful in their own special way, cherish your own beauty and remember that you're only limited by your efforts and confidence!

Ways to Improve Your Own Self Image:
Exercise on a consistent, almost daily basis. Take on challenges and risks! Don't be limited by your own view of yourself, step out of your box and be different sometimes. Put yourself in healthy environments that make you feel rewarded. Replace your negative thoughts with positive ones. Remember your attitude toward others is yours and yours alone.

thanks to wikipedia for helping me define self image!

Friday, February 27, 2009

Question?

Pay attention to the answers when you ask the questions. If you are exposed to good information, it is in your best interest to absorb it, and most importantly, use it.

My job, my life is dedicated to helping others achieve success. I love doing this simple task. I educate myself to become knowledgeable enough to do it correctly. It fuels me to accomplish bigger and better things within my own life and then show others the way to success within themselves. The only quantifier that I cannot control is the other person's dedication and willingness to sacrifice to the inevitable changes that will have to take place for them to grow. I'm constantly embracing challenge and change, it's what makes me better.

Remember: if you are asking the question, you must be prepared for the answer. You should be prepared to act upon the answer. Even if it does require a leap of faith!

On the personal level:
I've been MIA lately and it's all because I'm brewing a little pot of sumpthin sumthin behind the scenes. No alcohol, no bar scene, no real socialization outside of fitness and training as of late. Why? I've dedicated myself to seeing how well my body can perform at the upcoming Crossfit Central Fittest Games Competition. I'm not in any condition or knowledge level to take home the top prize, but I am in perfect position to contend with myself and open up a new door for me in gaining experience with discipline and focus. True discipline and focus is a real challenge for me, probably more so than this competition could ever be. The games day will be all about fun and intimidation and confidence, and whew...exhaustion floods in just thinking about it! In the meantime, I'm trying not to miss my friends too much and trying to find a good massage! wink, wink!

Monday, February 16, 2009

Consider

There's a book out there that should be read by those seeking to live each moment as new. If you want to connect your thoughts and put them into action, this book helps you to organize a more conscious effort.

Consider this line in the book, "repeatlessness" by Joe Marshalla:

"Always consider to consider. And if you find yourself stopping to consider, consider why you stopped considering."

If you're always considering, you're open to change. One can never be reminded enough that change is empowering and keeps you progressing toward your goals.

On the personal level:
Ken is a friend that lives on Lake Travis that built a professional level sand volleyball court and guest house on his property. It's an amazing little getaway in his own yard, he loves to entertain and his place has become a weekend spot for many top Austin players. Went to his place on Sunday to grill, chill and play. Got on the court with some top level players and it was sad to deal with being the most "out of touch" player! I've been laying low on volleyball and it showed!! Time to get in the sand, practice and start playing at least 4 hours a week, a far cry from the 12 hours a week I was playing last spring. How cool is it that volleyball season never really ends here?

Friday, February 6, 2009

Elevated

Don't you love when you meet someone and feel an instant spark? Your eyes and smiles just "talk" to each other and sometimes it's like you've known each other forever! Chemistry has five different forms, each with its own identity. When I meet someone new, I'm most likely drawn to them because we share a common bond, interest, sense of humor, or future direction. What is interesting about life is how little control we have of when or where these instances occur. We often cannot explain why we're drawn to certain people. Do you think background, communication style, character, looks, astrology, interests, environment, and timing all come together to help you form that intangible bond?

At this time in my life, I am truly blessed to have a friend that makes me want to be a better person. I'm lucky to know beautiful and amazing people that elevate me to be better. But this connection is slightly different. I see the amount of dedication, focus, and intensity that this person possesses and intensely admire it. I enjoy thinking about the amazing future my friend is shaping for himself and others. I hope he never puts limits on himself at any time in his life. I'm not putting this person on a perfection pedestle--he's human and flawed in many ways, just like all of us. However, I feel blessed to have a friend that naturally elevates me to a healthier level!

It makes me seek to form more bonds like it with other people I encounter. I want to have a seamless level of connection to, be inspired and elevated by, and consider myself healthier because of the people I choose to have in my life. I want people around me that are traveling in the same direction and care about me just as much as I care about them. It makes it seem like anything in life can be accomplished when you're surrounded by go-getters and positive attitudes!

How can we form these more meaningful and intangible bonds? Be the person that you seek in your relationships. I think once the initial connection is established, our healthy relationships rely on effort, trust and honesty.

I believe: purposeful relationships do not look inward upon themselves, but rather outward in the same direction.

On the personal level:
Joss, the owner of Westlake Crossfit, and I had a fun bonding experience today. We were being crazy innovative coming up with new exercise ideas to progress ourselves and others as fit athletes. It was a fun session of bouncing ideas and movin' muscles. I see the dedication Joss has for growing his Crossfit business and it inspires me to be part of his growth. This is just the type of friendship I seek to form...those that are headed in the same healthy direction. We seek a path of helping others and it in turn elevates us.

Saturday, January 31, 2009

Dirty Shoe

The idea is often perfect, however the plan is usually flawed. Think about that again: you set a goal for yourself and the idea is perfect, but the plan is unrealistic or flawed. Many of us develop a plan and fail to follow through. Others make no plan at all. When it comes to a fitness goal, having a personal trainer can help you develop a concrete plan, but you have to be willing to follow it.

I was on the greenbelt today, walking in one of my "hidden gem" areas of beautiful, sprawling flat rock and clear water ranging from small cascading waterfalls to 3 foot pools. I was hopping from rock to rock in the wet creek bed area and trying to move as quickly as I could while staying dry. Well, sometimes I only had a few inches to land and anywhere from 6 inches to 4 feet lay between dry spots. I failed to plan and look ahead. I just started going and it wasn't long before my quickness of movement and lack of plan failed me and I went splat right into a pool of water. My result was a wet foot and dirty shoe, which is easy to overcome. But when we apply that result to bigger goals, we see how important it is to plan ahead and be able to realize the long term results of our original idea by making some shorter term goals and following through.

On the personal level:
I haven't blogged in a week and have missed it. I can only share a tidbit of life while keeping it short. I attended an 8 hr long TRX seminar today at Pinnacle. The intent was to get a basic understanding of suspension training (curious? lookup www.fitnessanywhere.com). Well, once again, the Crossfit training proved to be a big asset as I felt most of the programming was easy and I was able to drum up new ideas on progressing the exercises. It made for a fun, creative day and about 4 hours of workout time. Watch out clients, there's a new toy in store for you! Oh, and I am so ready for dinner at Uchi tonight after all that work!

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Powerful Beyond Measure

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. It's that we're powerful beyond measure. It is your purpose to be brilliant, talented, beautiful. Playing small does not serve anyone. Don't be concerned about people feeling insecure around you, it's likely that the opposite will happen. As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give those around us permission to do the same. People respond to the positive environment and feel liberated themselves. This power is within all of us. This power is within you.

Every life has value. Every life has purpose. Live knowing that you are powerful, beautiful, intelligent, and worthy.

On the personal level:
I've fallen off the running wagon. What was supposed to be the weekend of running my first half marathon, has instead turned into 6 weeks since I've run consistently. Fear of a intimidating distance? Yes! Time to get back to it...committing to 3 days a week running 3-4 miles. Sprints one day a week. Football practice is due to start soon. I want to know that being good to my body helps me perform.

Friday, January 23, 2009

New Teachings

Religion has been the basis of wars, crimes, and can be considered much of why the world is not at peace. Isn't that an interesting phenomenon? When much of what religious beliefs are based on are entirely unproven and an entity we know little to nothing about. When I say this it's not to judge or condemn, but it is true that we really know very little about the mysteries of a higher power. They will remain long after our generation is gone. Possibly forever. And I see this as well, on an unhealthy level religious beliefs can be used as a crutch for a person's shortcomings and fears.
I grew up without any type of religious teachings and as an adult I'm curious to study and learn more about different religions. Will an understanding of religion help me understand my purpose? I can't be sure.
I've taken on the task of discovering Buddhism, so this week I attended a Buddhist temple; a makeshift temple located in a house on a quiet suburban street just east of I-35 on Rundberg. The house is lived in by the Buddhists that run the chapter, two married couples and a single girl. I had no idea what to expect upon knocking on that door and the experience was a welcome surprise. Everyone was young, super warm and friendly, gave lots of hugs, and seemed devoted to the teachings of the Karmapa they follow. They took the time to give me some insightful background into their group, the different Buddhism styles, and we did a short guided meditation. And then it was stated, "Afterwards we usually just hang out together, do you want a beer?" And there it is...my hopeful beginnings of a beautiful Buddhist relationship.

On the *more* personal level:
What a tough week of punishing workouts. My body is talkin' some trash! To tame the fire, we did a Crossfit Total workout on Thursday. It was my friend Jarrod and myself and we maxed out on squat, shoulder press and deadlift. The two of us hit personal records with every lift we did! What a great day! Thanks to Jarrod for pushing me to go for the 210 PR on deadlift!! Otherwise I wouldn't have tried it. My new numbers: squat 170, press 65, deadlift 210 for a total of 445. My goal is to increase the total by 20 lbs. or more in the next 4 weeks.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

You Awake?

Austin is lucky to have a great system of trails and greenbelts and the close proximity these gems are to the downtown area is amazing. I live on the Bouldin Creek greenbelt and truly appreciate the beauty of living downtown and seeing the skyline and being involved in the city's energy and yet still being surrounded by the quiet of nature.
Yesterday was a chance for Emma and I to explore some new trails on Barton Creek greenbelt that we'd never been on before. The trail was easy to access and there were a few people exiting at the base. As soon as we entered onto the new area, it became steep and rugged and I got very excited that we were going to get a good workout and perhaps some even better views. We climbed the steep hill, the trail really mellowed out and another thing happened--all the people disappeared. Among those treetops we found ourselves isolated in a very quiet part of the world and it was pleasant. Always up for adventure, I stepped off the beaten path and off the trails completely to explore my surroundings in a whole new way. Once I was climbing rocks, working my way through brush, under and over trees, and through creeks it became immediately apparent. My senses heightened. My awareness of danger increased. It was an amazing feeling. Simple really, but you become much more aware that there could be a snake underfoot or a tree branch ahead aimed right at your eye. Or those evil little thorns ready to scratch at your skin. Stepping off the path made me awake and alive and one other very important thing: in the moment.
What is something you can choose to do this week to take your own life off the beaten path? Step into the unknown--the exciting--into a world that makes sure you're completely awake and focused and in the now.

On the personal level:
I've decided to attend a Buddhist Temple in Austin. I've never been and I'd like to learn more about the religion and know what it's like to practice it. I agree with some of the Buddhist teachings. It's important for me to remember to slow down and listen, I think this learning opportunity can reinforce this for me. I wonder if the chants and alternative methods of practice will be something I embrace or am turned off by. I have so many questions and this is definitely a new realm.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Up to YOU

Every bit of who you are or ever will be is up to you. It's a matter of free will. Think about every choice and decision you've made, action you've taken, and word you've expressed has gotten you to where you are today and will continue to shape your future. Being accountable for the choices you've made in your life is how you make changes to better yourself in the present and future. It also represents maturity. Instead of beginning a blaming process for failure, we accept full responsibility for that failure and are then able to move forward. Look inward to accept and change the parts of your life that you don't like.

Accepting that you are completely responsible for yourself and that no one is going to "save" you sets you up to make the best decisions for yourself and to be the most successful person that you can be!

On the personal level:
Because of the time I spend being intensely active, I need regular therapy and massage. I know this and yet I've neglected it lately. In the recent past I've been able to do massage exchange with some friends, but that hasn't happened lately, so I've been experiencing some painful kinks in the last couple of weeks. Well, luckily I was recently introduced to a physical therapist, Chris, that just moved back here from New Zealand and is looking to do some bodywork. I lent myself up for experiment (I am the poster child for why massage is necessary!) and have been feeling MUCH better since. So, thanks to Chris for manhandling my muscles! If you are in need of some corrective work, I'd highly recommend him. Wellll, I might need a few more sessions to really be sure. ; )

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Sight to See!

Tonight, Saturday, January 10th, it's expected that we'll have the biggest and brightest full moon of 2009. This occurs because the moon's orbit around Earth is not a perfect circle and at one point in its orbit it's 31,000 miles closer to Earth than at its farthest point. That perigee happens tonight. A full moon rises right at sunset and will appear much larger at moonrise than it does later in the night when it is higher in the sky. This illusion is not fully explained, but some theorize that it has to do with our perception of things on the horizon vs. overhead. You can read more about this phenomenon on msn.com today.

The moon tonight is a perfect example of why there is something to enjoy and take advantage of everyday. Appreciate the truly amazing in the simple, natural occurrences on our planet. Hope today has you taking advantage of life and making the most of your day!

On the personal level:
I'm thankful for one of my friends in Austin: Tobias. Tobias is the owner of Sugar, a pitbull who is Emma's BFF. These two pitbulls play beautifully together--racing and chasing each other through the greenbelt. I met Tobias at Emma's school and would have never thought that we'd become such good friends; we're very different people. We take our furkids out together several times a week and have some of the most honest conversations about life. It's great to have a friend that helps you reflect on some of life's questions. And today he brought me friendship bread. Awww...thanks to Tobias and Sugar! Emma and I appreciate you both!

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Think You Can?

Think about the amount of control you have over different things in your life. How much control do you have over the success of your career, relationships, and family/friends? How about your car or house operating perfectly without fault? We have control over ourselves, but we can't control what other people do, when things break, what the weather brings us, etc. There is one thing in life that you do have a significant amount of control over. Your health. Your health is mostly dependent upon you and you alone. Yes, sometimes we "break" without warning, too, but most often our health is a direct byproduct of how we treat our body and mind. And your health is a byproduct of the attitude you have toward being fit. There is not only the commitment of time and discipline that goes into being healthy, but the attitude is paramount, as well.
So, remember, everyday is a new opportunity to live the healthiest life you possibly can. It all starts with your attitude. Whether you think you can or can't succeed in your goal of eating well, exercising consistently, and developing a healthy mind, you're right.

No excuses! Believe you're going to succeed, because you will!

On the personal level:
I work very hard to help my clients get into a healthy mindset because I believe it's the very core of whether they succeed or not. It's something that I work on everday, too. Having a healthy attitude and being positive is what paves my road to success. I'm thankful for this warm weather, hope to get out and play a 'lil volleyball on Friday...however I am in bad need of a massage for the 'ol shoulder. Volunteers can sign up anytime! : )

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Be a Teacher

It feels good to be in the position to add value to the lives of others. I say that in the sense of educating. In order to teach something valuable to someone, we have to learn something valuable ourselves. Put yourself in the position to teach someone you value something today.

Change yourself. Change another. Empower yourself. Empower those around you. Have a blessed day!

On the personal level:
Anytime I'm fighting through an injury, I envy my clients who are able to do what I am not. I'm lucky that the injury I'm experiencing is very temporary and should be fine by tomorrow, but I still think about how we take for granted our ability to do something we often don't want to do. I reflected today when I was out for a walk with Emma. She values her exercise intensely...looks forward to it everyday. She begs for a run! Don't take your ability to be active and healthy for granted. Just another something we can learn from our furry friends!

Monday, January 5, 2009

Bowl of Potential

Being positive. Welcoming change. Progressing and Innovating. Being compassionate. I write about these things because I understand that they remain a constant truth. These teachings don't change, they are always true. I think these teachings can help us through some difficult situations. I find that if I keep learning, stay positive, remain aware of my faults/keep the ego in check, workout or play sports daily, get good sleep, help others in need, and have healthy social interaction; that these things help me be a much more grounded individual. In my mind, it's not the material possessions that offer these benefits. What constants do you need in your life to make you a grounded individual?

I appreciate these excerpts pertaining to happiness from the book, "A Life in Balance":
"The fruits of a life committed to happiness are: enthusiasm, inspiration, passion, compassion, courage, honesty, and authenticity."
"Happiness is attained by choosing a path of certainty. There will be suffering, accidents, grief, and losses along with laughter, pleasure, and joy. Life stops being a roller coaster of ups and downs. Instead of going through each day with a certain tentative sense, you live with self-confidence, courage, and optimism. Happiness is confidence that no matter what happens, your life's potential is constantly unfolding."
So, to make your life a bowl of potential that is constantly unfolding, put into action what you can do today...and put your goals to work!

On the personal level:
New Year's Eve was the celebration of my 1 year in Austin anniversary. I volunteered at First Night Austin--the art exhibits and fireworks show were great. I'm happy. I've got my share of challenges behind me and yet to come, but the move was a great decision. It also makes me yearn for more of a traveling lifestyle; I'm asking myself quite often, what else is out there? So, I have some long-term goals to accomplish for myself, won't be easy, but we'll work on getting there.