When it comes to self-improvement, we normally find that we have one or two major issues we would like to fix and a whole host of minor issues. Most of the time we focus on our major issues first, and this can be a great strategy as, oftentimes we find that once the major issues are resolved, the minor issues just kind of fix themselves. However, I would like to suggest a different approach.
Everyday Joy
I frequently assist customers in selecting the best InnerTalk programs for them, and it’s not uncommon for them to spend several minutes telling me about all the aspects of their lives that they would like to fix. Faced with an onslaught of issues, it can be hard to know where to start. In these instances, I invariably ask them all the same question—What would make you feel happier today? You see, when you really look at it, if your long-term goal was to climb Mt. Everest, then today what would make you happier would be perhaps registering for the necessary training course, or perhaps going to your first class, or meeting up with others who have the same goal. It is that feeling of getting on track toward your goal, or remaining on track, that brings you the everyday joys that make life just feel good.
Background Clutter
I often use ‘noise’ to describe the background clutter in life. So, for example, at work, I can often have one urgent project I am working on, and about 20 other things that just need to be tended. Well, no matter how hard I try to focus on the one urgent project at hand, sometimes the ‘noise’ generated by these other minor things I need to handle at some point can make it impossible. I suppose in part this has to do with my realization that what can be a minor project today can easily escalate into a major issue tomorrow—and that realization can add even more background ‘noise’ that distracts me from my major project. I therefore find that there are times I will be a lot more productive if I reduce the number of minor projects I have—simply going from 20 minor projects down to 10 can make a huge difference, especially as these things can often be ticked off my ‘to do’ list with very little effort. With the reduction in ‘noise’ (or number of projects on my desk) I then find it easy to speed my way through my important project.
A Slippery Slope
This same metaphor can also be used in the arena of self-improvement—sometimes there is so much ‘noise’ that we want to fix that we end up doing none. And then, even worse, we can find that issues that were just minor before have now moved over to the major issue pile! So the 5 vanity pounds we wanted to lose have become 10, 20 or more, the promotion we deserved 5 years ago continues to go the younger employee with less time at the company, or minor squabbles in our relationships have really escalated and become nasty, and so on!
Do It Now!
I am a strong believer in tackling a problem as soon as I recognize it. I don’t believe in waiting for some perfect moment. If I see an issue I will take action immediately, as I am very aware of the spill over effect it can have into other areas of my life. If I have problems sleeping one night, then the following night I will make sure that Sleep Soundly is playing in the bedroom. If I feel I am having problems remembering details, I put Cognitive Enhancement in my player at work. If I find myself missing deadlines, then I will play Strategic Planning and Peak Performance. If I am feeling blue for no apparent reason (and sometimes if there is a real reason), then I will put on Free of Depression (my being cheerful program). In fact, if I find myself saying one negative thing to myself (such as, “math was never my thing,” or “everyone else has more confidence than I do,” or “I’m not assertive enough to do that,” etc), then I will check through the InnerTalk line to find the most appropriate title to cut off the negativity before it becomes a real issue. And when you realize you can get downloadable InnerTalk mp3 programs for just $25.95 and be working toward your new goal in less then 5 minutes, then it really is a no-brainer.
When there is a lot of background ‘noise’ in your life, then everything becomes harder, including those things that you consider to be urgent or top priority. Dealing with the smaller issues prevents them from becoming larger, and also frees you up to deal with the major issues. Is there anything else you can purchase for $25.95 that can give you more? Plus, right now you can take advantage of our Buy 4 Get 1 Free special, so that means dealing with 4 different issues for less than $103.80. As I said, it is a no-brainer!
So what smaller issues can you clear off your table?
Wishing you Love, Light, and Laughter, always!
Ravinder Taylor
P.S. If you enjoy these newsletters, please remember to share them with your friends and family. There are easy share buttons at the top of this newsletter. Please also be sure to friend me and Eldon on Facebook as we both love interacting with you all. You can also find us on Instagram (Ravinder, Eldon) and on Pinterest (Ravinder, Eldon), plus, you can read (and subscribe to) Eldon’s regular blog here.