Three Easy Steps to Setting Yourself Free

Published: 04/15/2006 by Joy Fisher-Sykes

Lilly Tomlin said, "The problem with the rat race is even if
you win, you're still a rat." A lot of us are running a rat race -
feeling caged into a life of running and giving to everyone
else FIRST, sometimes at your own expense. We are pulled
in so many different directions - work, family, finances. It is
time we put our foot down and stop feeling controlled - by
people and circumstance.

Well, it's time to set yourself free. Today, begin to take stock
of life and decide what is most important to you. Evaluate
the benefits and the losses of certain lifestyle choices. In
this quest to lead a fulfilling and quality life, here is my
action plan to begin to set us free.

1. Free Yourself From Negative Influences.

Have you ever been in the company of a person so negative
you felt completely exhausted afterwards? Relationships
with negative people can take a toll on your health,
thoughts, and emotions. You will become the people you
associate with.

Quick Tip: Don't allow "toxic people" to rule your mindset.
Remove yourself from the company of negative people (I
also call these individuals "toxic people"). If this isn't
possible (for example at a family function), limit the time of
your interaction.

2. Stop Putting Your Needs on Hold.

We tend to put the needs of EVERYONE - our employer,
family, and friends - ahead of our own. To do this denies us
the opportunity to fulfill our personal wishes, goals, and
desires.

Quick Tip: Make an appointment with yourself Today.
Take the time now to stop and listen to your inner voice that
so desperately wants to tell you your heart's desires. Now
that you know what you want - take action and make your
needs a top priority.

3. Think Outside The Box.

"We can't do that! It won't work. Besides we've done it this
way for the last 20 years." How many times have you heard
this? We are creatures of habit and like to do things the
same old way because it feels good. We love familiarity - it's
comforting. Unfortunately, that familiarity, or "the box," can
stifle our creative juices and rob us of great new ideas and
opportunities.

Quick Tip: Expand your comfort zone and start to think
outside the box. Take one thing you have done the same old
way just because, and write down three new ways to do it.
Take a chance. You might just surprise yourself.

Remember - Focus on your needs and set yourself free!

Joy Fisher-Sykes is a professional speaker, author, and
success coach in the areas of leadership, motivation, stress
management, customer service, and team building. You can
e-mail her at mailto:jfsykes@thesykesgrp.com, or call her at
(757) 427-7032. Go to her web site, http://www.thesykesgrp.com/ and signup for the
newsletter, OnPoint, and receive the free ebook,
"Empowerment and Stress Secrets for the Busy
Professional."