Surviving Reality


1. Reality is what gets us from here to there. Even though there are times when it isn't any fun, we have to admit that we do need it.

2. Find constructive ways to escape reality. Hobbies are great ways to escape stress.

3. Learn time management and goal setting. This way both your real time and your escape time are more rewarding.

4. Shift gears with grace. It is difficult to come up for air, to shift out of escape time and reenter the demands of everyday life, but if you face this transition with anger, you demolish your support system (network of friends and family who should be there for you when you need them).

5. Learn a good relaxation exercise. Somewhere along the way, I learned that you should hold your breath on the exhale instead of the inhale for best results in relaxation.

6. "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade." Maybe this is a cliche, but it's a good one! Problems can be turned into opportunities if we look at them right.

7. Yes, you do have to do reality. Think on it this way--The heroes of story are heroes because they are brave. They face the monster and win.

8. Okay, maybe Mom/Dad/Teacher/CO/Boss--whoever, is not a nice person. But. Can you learn something there that will make YOU a better person? Consider giving respect to those who can genuinely help you.

9. Be kind. There isn't enough kindness in this world, and besides, "You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar."

10. When at a crossroads, choose people over things. Your success might not be faster, but it will be stronger.

11. Don't expect other people to read your mind [thanks, Bob, for teaching me that. . .]

12. Another great cliche worth applying: "Take time to smell the roses." Spend time with your passion EVERY DAY! Your brain will make endorphins and keep you flying.

13. Sleep on a problem before making a decision. Sometimes many nights' of sleep are required. On rare occasions, leaving a bad situation IS the right thing to do. Just make sure you've looked at all sides of the problem before you make your move (or say something you shouldn't).

14. "Don't burn your bridges behind you." You never know when you might need a real escape route.

15. ALWAYS consider the other person's perspective. If we all "walked in each other's shoes" for just a day, we might be more inclined to tolerance and understanding.

16. Face challenges to make yourself a better person. Stand up for what you believe in. Don't live life in a way that cuts across the grain of your value systems [but don't be mean, either]. Assertiveness requires balance for a successful campaign.

17. Learn focus. You know how hard you concentrate on whatever it is that you most love? Success in life comes to those who can apply that same focus to all parts of life. Car accidents, failed tests, and getting fired from or injured on the job can all be attributable to lack of focus.

18. Though they aren't for everyone, pets can be wonderful companions.

19. Volunteer your time on a regular basis. You'll be amazed at how good it makes you feel.

20. Got the day-job blues? Try exercising in the sunshine or taking a nice cozy nap. Regular exercise and sufficient sleep keep you moving in the right direction.

21. Have one place in your life that is a safe-zone. Don't allow others who share your safe-zone to turn it into a battlefield [take arguments elsewhere].

22. Guilt is an interesting concept: not all cultures have it in their vocabulary, it doesn't bring back the dead, and it's hell on relationships. Rethink your approach.

23. Find a way to make it happen . . . all waters drain into the sea [imagine the power of persistence]. Don't ever give up. Passion makes life worth living.

24. Appreciate what you have BEFORE you lose it.

25. Smile--someone loves you !

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