Live Your Life for Today.

In this issue we focus on living our lives for today. This newsletter is dedicated to Nicola Jones, who sadly passed away suddenly on June 28, 2008. I first met Nicola in October 2007 when she attended a series of my parent workshops. It was clear from the beginning that Nicola was a devoted mother, a kind and caring person who gave generously to her family, friends and the community. We kept in touch regularly and, having seen her just two weeks ago, and knowing that she was truly happy in her life at that moment, I feel privileged to have been a part of her journey of self-discovery.

Nicola Jones will be greatly missed by the many people's lives she touched.
With fond memories,
Karyn.

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Live Your Life For Today.

You may have heard of the book "Don't Sweat The Small Stuff and it's all small stuff" by Richard Carlson. This book is a wonderful resource and reminder about living life in the present moment.

Yet how many of us spend our lives sweating the small stuff? We complain about the rising cost of living, the weather, the government, our lack of time, or other people's behaviour. We become caught up in a negative cycle living in a society where doom and gloom can become a self-fulfilling prophecy; where bad news is constantly fuelled by the media.

How would it feel if television and newspapers regularly reported the good news, informing us of all the positive, remarkable and amazing events that occur daily around the world? Often the things that touch our lives and truly make a difference go by unnoticed and unappreciated.

Recently, our family began having weekly family meetings over dinner. Each week, every family member has a turn at being head of the table and we discuss what we are doing well and what we can improve on. We then finish by stating something we appreciate about each family member, including ourselves.

This one small change has resulted in improved communication and relationships in our family. We focus on and are grateful for who we are today, both as a family and as individuals. This helps us maintain realistic expectations of ourselves and each other, and supports and encourages us to love the life we are living right now.

Below are some thoughts and ideas on how you can live your life for today:

* Imagine you are at some future point looking back on your life. How are you doing? Are you living the life you want? If not, what is stopping you from being the person you want to be? What action do you need to take today?
* Just do it! Stop procrastinating. If it is important to you, make time for it NOW!
* Focus on one thing at a time. Keep things simple, realistic and achievable.
* Identify your priorities by reviewing your vision, values and passions.
* Plan and organise support systems in advance, so you can get on with and enjoy your life. Ensure you have an up to date will. Consider seeking advice on insurance or financial planning.
* Acknowledge and then release any emotions that may be holding you back from living the life you want. Discover ways to free yourself from feelings of guilt, resentment, anger, worry or fear.
* Decide to become clear of any unresolved matters in your life. Take action towards resolution or let it go. Have the courage to be the one to step up and make contact.
* Communicate your thoughts and feelings regularly. If helpful, write them down. Listen without judgement or interruption.
* Be kind to yourself and others. Give without expectation.
* Think positively. You are what you think.
* Acknowledge and reward your achievements, whether big or small.
* Be grateful for the little things every day.
* Laugh, enjoy and celebrate life!

Do not live your life full of regrets, disappointment and missed opportunities. As the serenity prayer suggests have the courage to change the things that can be changed, accept the things that cannot, and have the wisdom to know the difference. Plan for tomorrow but live your life for today, for at some point in your life there will be a time when tomorrow never comes.

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Call Karyn Riley, the Parenting & Well-being Specialist
phone (+64 3) 344 2924 or email results@rileylife.co.nz