Create Your Certainty

We are the creators of our own destiny. Those words are a mighty strong declaration when you consider the natural state of entropy and uncertainty that exists in the world. Yet, if we stop long enough to acknowledge the reality of this statement, we would clearly see that there are many people who live by the powerful simplicity of this credo. In short, you can create a certainty in your life that will lead you to a destiny of preference rather than one of circumstance.

To be clear, we are not defined by our circumstance. If circumstance has dealt you a bad hand, then rest assured it has done so for a reason. Look for the insight that resides inside the veil of circumstance and take responsibility to learn from the lessons it provides. Then...make a conscious decision to redefine your destiny using the virtues of opportunity created by circumstance.

We create our own reality by the choices we make. If you think about it, the manner in which we act or react to literally anything and everything sets the perspective on how we see life. The power of choice is one of the most extraordinary tools we have at our disposal to literally change the course of our lives. Want people to respect you? Then choose to be respectful. Want to realize a dream or goal? Then make a choice to create that goal and chart a course. Don't wait. Make a decision right now to use the power of choice to create certainty in your life. But don't stop there. Now you must act!

Certainty Reveals a New Direction

Your action is the catalyst that allows you to escape circumstance through the immense power of your ability to choose a new direction. If you find yourself in a state of unhappiness for whatever reason, you must first understand that you have the power to change it. Only you can decide when you've had enough of your current circumstances. Only you can redefine the kind of life you desire. And only you can decide to do something about it. No one else can change your circumstances without your permission. You create your own certainty!

Want to be the top producer in your company? Create your certainty by making a conscious decision to be just that. Your power of choice creates opportunities. Take advantage of the opportunities. Emulate others who are successful. Do what they do. And be persistent. Follow through with a plan and act on it. Don't like your job...your relationship...your finances? Look beyond your circumstances by creating a vision of the conditions you desire. Then...create your certainty!

Tap Into Your Ability to Visualize

Your ability to visualize is a powerful force that brings about change. Think about the last time you really thought about something that excited you. My bet is that it changed your entire state of being. Your ability to visualize increases confidence, sharpens your creative acuity, and enhances your ability to see opportunities instead of obstacles. Make a conscious declaration using the powerful images of your vision that right now is when you will begin to realize your dreams.

Be Decisive!

Remember, life doesn't happen "to" us—it happens "for" us. The point is that we get a vote on how it happens "for" us. Don't get in your own way. Get out of your head as soon as possible and get into a state of being that supports your dreams, desires, and aspirations. Your state—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—is something you will begin to experience changes in once you consciously decide to enact change.

Be decisive and don't stray...no matter what. Don't allow fear to get between you and your ability to decide. Make that decision! Whether it is right or wrong you will find out faster than if you avoid making a decision altogether. You can always make adjustments once your plan is under way.

Life is about the experience of the journey and the moments we create along the way. The content and quality of the experiences are largely determined by the certainty we create and the rituals we keep. Are your rituals supporting your dreams, goals, and aspirations? If not, perhaps it's time to do something about it.

Until next time...
-G-

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." 
~ G. Westfal

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Permission to Soar!

What is your wildest dream, your biggest goal, or the one thing you desire more than most anything else? As you watch the images of your dreams play out in your mind, be quick to grab hold of the way you feel. Don’t let go and give yourself permission to soar on the possibilities. Savor the way it makes you feel. Are you energized? You should be. Do you realize that you can “feel” this way any time you want?

If our dreams, goals, and aspirations make us feel so great then why aren’t we riding them more often? It’s time to conduct a quick assessment on where we are versus where we desire to be…or who we desire to become. Are you moving closer to your objectives? Some may answer “yes, but…” If your answer is the same or anything less, perhaps you’re not giving yourself permission to soar.

 

Think for a moment about the way you feel when your dreams are at the forefront of your mind. Our minds create an image that ignites passion which, in turn, stimulates a physical response that produces endorphins that bring about clarity and creativity. If you’re like me, the drive and passion are so intense during those moments that there’s nothing that can derail or prevent me from grabbing the next rung of the ladder to my objective, no matter what it takes. Something happens when the ideals of our dreams, goals, and desires line up with the mind, body, and spirit. That “something” is called synergy!

 

Synergy is the interaction of two or more substances, entities, or agents to produce an effect far greater than the sum of their distinctive parts. Simply put, synergy is power. It’s a power every one of us possesses. You can experience synergy anytime you wish. It’s true.

 

The source of synergy is imagination. Try this – go back to the opening paragraph and tap into the images that support your greatest desires. As soon as you “see” the images you begin the process of your own synergy. Now, rinse, lather, and repeat…and repeat…and repeat. It’s the way habits are formed. What better habit to form than one that’ll literally change the course of your life?

 

Synergy is limited only by our own ability to allow it to multiply. In other words, if we get out of our own way and open our minds to the fact that we can achieve anything we desire, our imaginations will be free to show us more than we can already imagine. It has been said that our subconscious cannot discern the difference between fact and fiction. By continually tapping into our imaginations we feed and convince our subconscious of the reality we desire. So why not have fun with this and convince it of where you want to go instead of where you are and who you wish to become rather than who you currently are? It’s the beginning of a path to greatness and is a law of nature that will work for any one of us.  

Until next time...
-G-

"You have the power to set the tone of your day through the choices you make and the thoughts that dominate your mind." 
~ G. Westfal

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...
  

The Seasons of Change...

Every one of us has something in our lives we'd like to change. Sometimes we're ready for change—a change in jobs, a change of scenery, a change in our physical or financial state.

Whatever our desire for change, one thing is almost always certain—change is difficult. Why is that? After all, most changes we desire are typically ones that'll bring about goodness and happiness. Well, for starters, resistance to change allows us to rest in a place we have become comfortably numb. Despite the promise of a brighter outlook, there's a certain amount of solace in sticking with the status quo. Don't fall for it!

If you're ready to affect real change in your life for whatever reason, consider the following keys. They'll help you make the changes you desire and increase your chances for a successful and lasting outcome.

1. Determine why you want to change. The why behind the desire for change is an often overlooked aspect that is hastily considered, if it is considered at all. Most times the reasons for our desire for change is so obvious (to us) that we see little reason to give it much thought. However, if we spend a little time on the why, we begin to realize its inherent power. You see, knowing the why and believing in the why are subtle shifts in thinking that can make a huge difference in determining whether or not we stay on track to seeing our changes take place.

2. Change only one thing at a time. A central focus on one central issue provides clarity and prevents us from becoming overwhelmed. This approach allows us to break things down into smaller, more attainable goals. Reaching these attainable goals empowers us with the fortitude we need to handle increasing roles we'll likely face as we seek greater change.

3. Focus on what you have to gain over what you have to lose. One of the biggest reasons people resist change is based on a fear of loss. We see change as an unknown while we see our current circumstances as the comfortable known aspect of our lives that we have come to accept as a permanent reality and one we fear losing. It doesn't have to be that way. You can lose weight, get into better shape, establish loving and powerful relationships, become more successful, financially independent, or whatever else you desire. You just have to stop viewing your current circumstances as "good enough" to keep you in a state of resistance to change. You must also change the way you see your current circumstances by reframing them from something you have to lose to everything you have to gain by embracing change.

4. Set realistic expectations. Some will say we should eliminate time limits as we seek change. Although there is some truth to that statement as it relates to patience, it can be misleading. Instead, I advocate that we should set realistic expectations. It's true that change is a process and not an event. Therefore, some changes take time to fully materialize. Knowing that, however, should not relieve us of the responsibility to operate with an attitude of expectancy and recognize the seasons of change as we take actions to ignite change. 



"Change is a process and not an event."

In order to live and thrive in this world, we must be receptive to change. Change is going to occur whether we like it or not. If you're seeking change in your life it may require you to shift your thinking, readjust your habits, let go of old hurts, and ignore your circumstances. Only when you're freed from past burdens will you be able to take full advantage of what lies in front of you right now.

In order to effectively embrace change we must not view change as an attack on our current way of thinking, rather a fresh new mindset that prevents us from fighting against ourselves. Unfortunately, our brains are wired to resist change. Knowing that up front arms us with the knowledge and awareness it takes to embrace change instead of avoiding it.

The next time you're faced with a challenge to accept the status quo or to enact change, pause for just a second to allow the surge of the moment to take affect and reveal the magic of your alternatives. This subtle action will yield powerful results and give you the power to embark on a brand new course to bringing about the changes you seek in your life. Take back the power of choice that's yours and watch the changes begin to abound!

Until next time...

-G-

"The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but by building the new." 
~ Socrates

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...





  

Happiness is in Your Hands

The meaning of life can be summed up in one simple yet profound word—happiness. Yet, it may surprise you to know that a rather small number of people consider themselves to be truly happy.

Scientific polls place the average percentage of happy people to be less than 20%. When asked about happiness most people will tell you they're "generally happy" while others will freely admit they seldom experience much happiness at all. Less than 20% confidently define their lives as fulfilling or flourishing. That's less than one in five! These basic stats raise the question: How do I become one of the 20-per centers?

Happiness is relative. In other words, it is personally defined. Yet, there are certain fundamentals that support a foundational premise that can help you find (and maintain) a state of happiness in your life. I've gathered a few of these simple principles you may wish to consider as you search for your own true version of happiness. These principles, along with many others, have worked well for me. And I suspect they will work for you as well.

Gratitude - Known as one of the most profound and powerful happiness boosters, gratitude will immerse your entire being with the goodness of life. Gratitude reveals the precious nature of life and the sincerities of mankind in a way that can often be awe-inspiring. Gratitude can make you happier. It can make you see life differently, and it can change your entire state of being.

Gratitude exercise - Every day think of three things you are grateful for. Do it for two weeks without skipping a day. At the end of two weeks determine whether or not you feel happier. My bet is that you surely will.

Passion - Each and every one of us is good at something. Operating in the lane of passion supports happiness and gives us a sense of accomplishment and contribution.

Passion exercise - Think about the best version of yourself and move toward that. Learn something, connect with someone, and act on something that supports your passion.

Time - Spending time with the right people speaks to our sense of belonging and our basic social nature. The happiest people are generally social and have strong relationships.

Time exercise - Interact with people. Discover the true value of human interaction with other like-minded people. If you tend to be more of a social introvert, try stepping outside your lane of familiarity and see the kinds of things being social can provide. Happiness is more contagious than unhappiness, so a bit of exposure may actually open up a whole new world for you.

Give - There's just no doubt about it, giving makes us happier than receiving. Giving creates a perpetuate cycle of happiness that's difficult to describe. Experience giving and you'll quickly know the power of this concept.

Giving exercise - Volunteer. Do something nice for someone as you discover a need. It can be the most selfless way of being selfish while creating a sense of personal joy that is difficult to top.

Savor - There's nothing wrong with savoring fond memories of the past or anticipating an exciting event. However, to truly tap into the strongest aspect of happiness, we should focus as much as we possibly can on the present moment. Doing so allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the magic of the moment as it unfolds before us. Savoring such moments are an important aspect to the basic tenets of happiness.

Savor exercise - Stop what you're doing right now and savor the things that are going on around you. Draw a deep breath and savor the fresh sense of life that enters your lungs. Listen to the sounds, savor the voices, the sights, the experiences and the power of right now. Smile knowing that these things are the essence of life and a true reason to be happy.

Avoid regrets - We all know the story of the person who lies on their deathbed looking back upon life with regrets. "I wish I had the courage to live life differently," "I wish I hadn't worked so hard," "I wish I had allowed myself to be happier," "I wish I had..." The last thing any of us want is for this scenario to play out in our own lives. But it will unless you realize that you have the power to be happy right now. You control your own state of happiness and it isn't as difficult as it may first appear.

So...smile, savor the goodness of life, and discover reasons to be happy. The power to do so is in your hands. 

Until next time...

-G-

"Happiness is an inside job."
~ William Arthur Ward

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Rise Above Mediocrity

You want to get to the top but are often frustrated with things that keep getting in the way of your progress. No matter what you do there never seems to be enough time, money, or resources to bring about the changes you seek.
 
I'm going to share with you one of the most powerful messages I've ever discovered. It made me believe that anything is possible and that whatever success I want to achieve I indeed could achieve it. It would not be without hard work and commitment, but the concept was simple. And I instantly knew it to be true.
 
They called it a secret. In fact it was literally called "the greatest secret in the world." And that secret is this: The key to success is that you only need to be a small, measurable amount better than mediocrity to be successful.
 
Wrap your mind around that for just a second. Could that really  be true? In its simplest form, it is. You see, most people happily accept mediocrity. Oh sure, some people will tell you how much they desire to get to the top, but their actions and choices reveal an entirely different version of the words they convey. Invariably, these people give up on the meaningful things they hope to accomplish because of the mediocrity they choose to accept. I'm here to tell you it doesn't have to be that way.

OK, so how do we become better and rise above mediocrity? A good place to start is by redefining how we measure ourselves against mediocrity. The term mediocrity can be simply described as the best of the worst and the worst of the best. In other words, it is the equivalent of the status quo—a position or attitude whereby risk is avoided and comfort is essential.

If you are risk averse it doesn't mean you'll never succeed. If your goals and ambitions don't compel you to set aside comfort (or the latest TV show, video game, or distraction) for the sake of your goals it doesn't mean you're a loser. It simply means you're not ready to do what it takes to reach the top. But when you are, these aspects of life must be reconsidered in order to begin to see results.

Are you acting on your desire to reach the top, to become something more, or to achieve an objective? Are you taking action to be even slightly more than mediocre? You already intuitively know what it takes to succeed. To discover the drive within you should find out what it is you are passionate about and act upon it. Does your desire for success compel you more than your desire for acceptance and the status quo? Are you learning at least one new concept or lesson that will propel you beyond mediocrity? Are you using time wisely? How are your actions measured against what you know to be average compared to what you know to be better than average?

Are your goals and objectives clearly defined? This is very important because if you don't know where you're going you will never know when you have arrived. Worse yet, you may never get there without an accurate description of your objective or goal. Have you defined "the top" against your own desires and standards? If you're defining your goals against the standards of others then you are missing the mark and will likely fail.

Are you passionate about your goals? If so, you're well on your way to achieving them. Passion is the catalyst for action. It is the essential ingredient that will help you continue your quest to achieve despite circumstances or obstacles. Passion is what keeps people going when others quit and accept mediocrity. Find something to be passionate about and you will have discovered the secret to success and, more importantly, happiness.

Passion drives determination. Determination describes an attitude that says "I will not quit. I am more than ordinary. I will reach the top." While most people look at their circumstances and decide to retreat, those with determination courageously step forward to scale whatever obstacles they have to, right now, to reach their goals and objectives. They don't wait for "the right time" because the right time is right now!

Master the right skills. Average skills will get you to the middle. Extraordinary skills will get you to the top! Are you proficient in the skills you need to reach the top? If so, you must continue to nurture those skills. If not, you must acquire them. Seek wisdom, knowledge, and abilities that support your passion and you will become a measure better each and every day you make the effort. Your collective improvements will begin to compound and ultimately put you in a category far beyond ordinary and into one that will be extraordinary!

Last, treat people with dignity and respect. No one knows everything but everyone knows something. You cannot get to the top without the help and/or support of others. If you think otherwise, try being a jerk and see how far that gets you. Treating people with respect and dignity will pay huge dividends in winning the hearts and minds of those who may end up helping you to reach the top. We all rely on the expertise of someone who has knowledge or skills we need in order to succeed, whether that expertise comes in the form of a product or service or mentoring or consultation. Never forget that you must be able to work well with others.

You can escape the bonds of mediocrity and realize your ultimate potential if you're willing to look at things differently and begin to take small measured steps to be better today than you were yesterday. It's not as complicated as it may seem.

Until next time!

-G-

"The minute you settle for less than you deserve you get even less than what you settle for."
~ Unknown

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Five Keys to Making Good Decisions

For some of us, decisions come rather easy while the decision-making process for others is a bit more of "a dilemma." If you find it difficult to make a  decision or your decisions are typically, well, not ones you're happy with, or if you lack the confidence in making good decisions...you're not alone. In fact, there are many people who will admit to having some dissatisfaction in this area of their lives. That's the unpleasant news. The good news is there's hope.

Some people may admit they have no decision-making routine whatsoever. The truth is, they do have a routine, they just don't know it.

Most people who struggle with good decision-making skills will admit that when it comes to making decisions, theirs is typically one that's emotionally-based or without regard to any consideration of the inevitable consequences. Have you ever made a decision only to wish you had taken just a bit more time to consider it from every angle? I think we all have.

Whether or not you consider yourself a good decision-maker, it pays to follow some basic rules. These five keys to good decision-making should help you see things from a common sense perspective and may even help you sleep a bit better as well.

1. Take Your Time: Unless an immediate decision is critical, there should always be some kind of time element that's available for you to think about your decision. If someone is telling you that you must "choose now or else..." beware, or just say no. In most cases, an impulsive decision is not going to be a wise one. Time is the number one culprit of poor decision making. Take control of it and make it work for you, not against you.

2. Weigh the Pros and Cons: This simple process allows you to determine the maximum benefit of a decision, assuming everything goes as you plan. It also allows you to consider the opposite effect should things not go as planned. Some questions that come to mind are: What is my maximum exposure? What's my exit strategy? What are the benefits and pitfalls? Having a complete picture allows you to make the best decision possible.

3. Seek Advice: You're not always alone. For significant decisions, try seeking the advice of a friend or loved one. This is especially significant if the decision has an effect on others, such as a business or family member. Gather key advisors and go over the pros and cons. Consider the perspective of others as you make the final determination.

4. Sleep on it: Some of the best decisions come as a result of time (the first key) and rest. If you're tired, your brain isn't operating as efficiently as it would be in a fully-rested state. It's akin to shopping at the grocery store while you're starving. It can be done but just doesn't make good sense to do such a thing. If you're facing a decision and you have time to sleep on it, a fresh, rested perspective may be just the thing you need for clarity.

5. Reflect: This is the final key and is one that should be practiced after the previous four above. Reflection can be accomplished by simply contemplating or praying about a decision you face. If you're like me, if I'm facing an unwise decision, I simply don't have peace or I'm "uneasy" about it. If that's the case, I follow my instincts and seek a better alternative or come to the conclusion (decision) that best suits me and those closest to me.

Making decisions of any kind has consequences. Making the right ones doesn't have to be difficult and can bring peace and contentment to your life. Consider these five keys next time you face a decision and I believe you'll be better for it.

Until next time!

-G-

"It's not hard to make good decisions once you know what your values are." ~ Roy Disney

We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
If you'd like to receive a notification anytime Gary publishes a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit his Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Writer, Artist Educator.

Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom left of the column. You'll be subscribed and will receive a notification anytime he publishes a new blog or provides updates. Please help Gary by recommending this blog to others and by "liking" his Facebook page. Let's push this deserving author to the top among the greats where he belongs.

Please help the author reach more people. If you enjoyed this article you can help by recommending it on Google by pressing the "g+1" button below...

Overcome Limiting Beliefs

"I think, therefore I am." ~ Rene' Descartes

The above quote, from the French philosopher, mathematician and writer has stood the test of time and speaks to the power that our thoughts have in shaping our lives.

It's true our thoughts play a major role in shaping everything from the opinions we have of ourselves to the everyday decisions we make along the course of our lives. For if we limit those thoughts through fear then we affect the opportunities and experiences of life that are waiting for us.

If we could somehow get beyond the rational (and often limiting) thought processes that dominate our lives we would find that virtually anything is possible. But how do we do that?

One of the first things we have to do is shift our thinking away from the fact that failure is bad. "...for I have learned more about success from failure than I have from the victories I have savored." That's a quote by yours truly. When it comes to success, one of the biggest lessons in my life has been to accept failure or "setbacks" for what they are—learning opportunities. It's not common practice for me to seek failure but I have learned to embrace it for everything it offers in the way of knowing what not to do inasmuch as I have learned what to do. The experiences have allowed me to accelerate my life in so many areas in spite of the number of "setbacks" that I've had the pleasure of experiencing.

Our minds tend to draw false generalizations based on isolated or past unpleasant events or occurrences. It assigns meaning to each one of those events in such a way that leaves an indelible mental imprint of "experience" the likes of which drive our perceptions, and thus our decisions going forward. It is up to us how we frame those experiences and store them in our subconscious minds.

The beliefs you hold true will make up the fabric of your life's experience. What most of us have difficulty understanding is that the beliefs we have of the world are essentially made up of the subconscious decisions we have made that are principally defined from a conscious personal perspective. Despite the commonalities that "seem" to exist among us, it is safe to say each and every one of us has a slightly different perspective of reality. This reality is made up by our subconscious based upon the experiences of our lives and our conscious reaction to personal circumstances. The only reason any of our beliefs hold value is because we have decided or accepted that they are worthy of the value we assign to them.

Limiting beliefs prevent us from experiencing life at its fullest. Why then would any of us knowingly accept these thoughts? The short answer is that we wouldn't, but all too often we either accept it as an inherent part of our reality or we begin to believe it is a part of who we are personally.

Want to get past this? Then first accept the fact that you can change reality. That's right, reality is what you make of it. That may seem trite or overly simplistic but the fact remains that you decide your own reality. Remember, our reality is shaped by how we process our experiences. Begin by processing your experiences through the lens of a limitless filter. Open your eyes to new experiences with an attitude of expectation over limitation.

To change your perception of reality and the acceptance of limiting beliefs being a natural part of your life, begin by changing the way you identify with destructive thoughts. Stop allowing yourself to be defined by limiting beliefs. If you think you'll never be financially independent, you never will be. Think about how powerful a statement that is.

If limiting beliefs have the power to prevent you from experiencing the goodness of life then it only seems logical that the opposite holds true. Removing the limits from our beliefs can only serve to open the aperture of perspective and opportunity that awaits us. For if you believe you can in fact become financially independent then it is also true.

Whatever you think you know is most likely a figment of your limiting beliefs and overactive imagination. If there's one thing I've learned over the years is that things are seldom what they first appear to be. We tend to exaggerate and stress over situations and conditions that never materialize because of the presumptive conclusions we draw. Most times we're wrong.

What limiting thoughts have a hold of your life? Are you ready to look past them with the knowledge and awareness that you have the power to do just that?

In order to break the backs of limiting beliefs we must push past our assumptions and step forward with confidence knowing that whatever the situation presents, we can handle it. Processing thought is a good first step, but action must closely follow if our subconscious is to be convinced.

Once you begin eliminating limiting beliefs your life will take on a noticeable change. You will have an almost inexplicable basis of confidence, you will be less fearful, you will begin to see (literally and figuratively) more clearly, and you will begin to understand that you can achieve anything you desire. Happiness will become a new foundation of existence for you as you come to the realization that limiting thoughts have no place in your life.

Until next time!

-G-



We're proud to announce Gary's next book, set to be released this summer. FEAR is a Thief is the first in a self-empowerment series that is written to show people how to get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Get your copy of Westfal's first novel Dream Operative.

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

For a comprehensive perspective on the diversity of Gary Westfal, please visit his website (www.gwestfal.com).
 
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