It seems to be up in the air and around people I speak lately, the sense that there is irritation, a feeling of being on the edge, frustration and yet, hope and optimism for the changes underway.

To a certain degree, irritation can be the result of uncertainty and mis-communication.  Especially if you are a perfectionist like I tend to be (getting better as time goes on!), when things don’t go the way you planned or the way you want them to, you may get frustrated because of losing control of the situation. Read the rest of this entry »

Even though we have already been in 2012 for over a week now, it has taken me as long to find my whereabouts, to establish a clear picture of what I would like to do different this year.

On New Year’s Day I have a ritual of, among other things, doing a dreamboard that encapsulates both the intention I am putting forth for the year and the energies available to me, whether I am consciously aware of them at the time or not.  This year portrays a lot of assertion, independence, love, playfulness and less control, as far as my spontaneous nature goes.

Here are five tips I’d like to share that may ground in a practical way your wishes and aspirations for this year:

1) First of all, please keep in mind that it is your year, thus reflect on what it is you would like to have, do, accomplish not only in your business but also in your personal life, romantic or other, and your social endeavors. Visualize the big picture without focusing on the details.

2) What are the feelings you would like to experience? I.e. fulfillment, being in-love, inspired? Pick three that stand out.

3) How would you like to be perceived in your professional endeavors? I.e. knowledgeable, resourceful, good listener? Pick three.

4) Which area would you like to be emphasized in your life? I.e. is it in the romantic arena, your income, personal development, health regime? Prioritize.

5) Lastly, how will you have fun? Write down three things you love (or would love to do) i.e. taking a zumba class, writing, painting, horseback riding.

If you are visual, create something that captures what you have noted, and if you like writing things down or prefer lists, then put together in a meaningful way what you have noted.  Keep the whole process simple and enjoyable, and place your creation where you can refer to it as often as possible.

About the author: Liliane Mavridara is a published author, poet, writing mentor and creative groupwork facilitator who supports entrepreneurs in the healing and creative arts to have a successful business and a harmonious lifestyle while making a big difference.  www.livebrightlythebook.com.

I was recently in a conversation where a colleague was inquiring on suggestions to “survive” the holidays.  Being on my own and traveling over the last couple of years, I am glad not having to participate in the whole frenzy of gift shopping.  However, I do notice that my friends and others around me seem exhausted and in a “when will this be over” attitude, while traffic and impatience are prevalent wherever I go.

So, whether you are on your own and are in complete control of the holiday events or whether you run around until the last minute to catch up with everything, here are a few tips I have found may ease the stress and help you actually enjoy the beautiful moments of these holy-days: Read the rest of this entry »

Being an independent and self-sufficient entrepreneur, daily planning and routine tend to put me in a specific mental loop which is wonderful for reaching my goals and get things done.

However, sometimes I can brood and think over and over what to do on a specific topic and before I know it, it is already a few hours later and I am so caught up into the same mental vicious cycle, that the promise of a clear vision is nowhere to be found.

Here are three tips that I have found useful when you look to get clear on what is important to do next: Read the rest of this entry »

Throughout my personal journey to mental wellness, I research information that’s outside of the conventional realm.  Several years ago, I was fortunate to hear of an educational series sponsored by NAMI www.NAMI.org and Safe Harbor www.alternativementalhealth.com It truly changed the way I viewed options available for overcoming anxiety and other mental health disorders.

The two speakers, Dr. Nancy Mullan of Burbank, California and Professor Jim Croxton from Santa Monica College were amazing.  When I share this story told by Professor Croxton, my wish is that it will start a shift in the way you view achieving mental wellness. Read the rest of this entry »

As an entrepreneur I know what a challenge it is, and some days more than others, to stay centered throughout daily activities, especially if you are handling many things at the same time, i.e. at work, home and family.

How you start your morning I find to be the most important component in how the rest of the day will go.  You may have had that experience of waking up having slept “at the wrong side”, and you are all cranky; the rest of the day is colored by that morning impression.  Similarly then, when you wake up and set an intent for your day, consciously starting it off as you wish it to be, the rest will unfold accordingly. Read the rest of this entry »