My 8 Commandments

Well guys, this is my first blog. I scratched around for some time.. then let my heart speak for itself... Life is all about exploring the beauty hidden in each phase of it... well i found out the following things (if followed) make it easier for us to do that...

Count your blessings

As I noted in an article, research indicates that when individuals record on a regular basis two or three things for which they are grateful, they experience greater optimism, connectedness to others, and more peaceful sleep. In our frenetic world, we can easily get caught up with pressures, stresses, and negativity and fail to appreciate the good things in our lives, something as simple as a child giving us a hug, a boss writing us a note of appreciation, a friend taking the time to send us an e-mail with a series of jokes.


Practice acts of kindness

There appears to be an inborn desire to provide support and assistance to others, a desire that lasts a lifetime. For instance, elderly people who are actively involved in helping others have been found to lead more meaningful, longer lives. So try this out!


Savor life's joys

We live in a world bombarded with technology that pervades all aspects of our life. I am not against technology but what concerns me is when we permit technology to interfere with enjoying the moment. Must a meal at a restaurant with close friends or playing with one's child be interrupted by answering a phone call? Or, as I witnessed recently, must one be on a cell phone while jogging? Or must the television be on while your family is eating dinner? Distractions such as these lessen our enjoyments.


Thank a mentor

Think about a significant person in your life (it could be a mentor, a friend, a relative) and write that individual a note of appreciation. Notice the feelings that are generated. It will not only be a gift to that person but to you as well. Doing so helps you as well as them to feel satisfied and happy.


Learn to forgive

The topic of forgiveness is receiving increasing attention, especially within the field of positive psychology. It is not easy to forgive. I agree, especially in cases involving emotional and physical aspects. A major feature of forgiving is to insure that our lives not be dominated by intense anger and thoughts of revenge.


Invest time and energy in friends and family

In the book The Power of Resilience, Sam Goldstein highlights the importance of connections in promoting a resilient lifestyle. Unfortunately, many people do not devote the necessary time nurturing significant relationships. It is little wonder that they experience anxiety and depression, since they are not living a life in concert with what they say they value. I do not believe most people can change their schedules overnight. However, I have seen many individuals slowly and realistically build in time with their spouses, children, and friends. When we set as a priority the strengthening of our relationships, it is possible to accomplish.



Develop strategies for coping with stress and hardships

Leading a resilient lifestyle does not imply the absence of problems and stresses, but rather that when hardships arise, the person has developed effective ways of coping. When confronted with challenges, resilient individuals do not moan in resignation, "Another burden that I will have difficulty handling." Instead, they are prepared to cope with these challenges in productive ways. The key factor is to be proactive rather than reactive by developing a wide range of coping strategies. When we feel in command of our emotions and behaviors, we are more inclined to experience contentment.


Finally, In a world often dominated with negativity, I find it hopeful that researchers and clinicians are displaying an increased appreciation of the importance of studying positive aspects of life such as empathy, caring, compassion, altruism, integrity, forgiveness, spirituality, and humor. I believe that as research continues to identify those factors that contribute to happiness, optimism, and resilience, we will be in a better position to make choices about our lifestyle that can enhance our emotional and physical well-being and our relationships with others. It is research well-worth our time and attention!