“Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast -- you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.” -- Eddie Cantor
For many of us, our days typically overflow with busywork. We’re running on habit and reacting to the influences around us. If we want to get more out of life, we need to pause once in a while and consciously choose how we spend our time. This starts with awareness.
Why not treat yourself to a retreat? You deserve it. More importantly, if you want to stay healthy and happy, you need it. As the sun retreats, we also retreat inside to rest, reflect on the past and future, and strengthen our spirits. Time away from our daily routines boosts our sanity and growth. So commit to some R&R (relaxation and revitalization/rest and relaxation) so you can R&R (review and re-plan).
Briefly stepping off of life’s treadmill yields powerful benefits. It’s only when we get out of the action that we can:
* detect our own early warning systems and make needed adjustments.
* clearly see if we’re doing what is most important.
* gain clarity and refocus.
* integrate meaningful events and lessons.
* regain balance.
* plan our next steps.
From experience, we know the power and value of regular retreats. To support you in building these precious times into your life, we’ve created a series of Re-Treat Plans. Use the micro Re-Treat frequently throughout your day for the pause that reconnects and refreshes. Take a 5 – 10 minute mini Re-Treat daily to focus your attention. Book time into your calendar for weekly, monthly and quarterly Re-Treats for even greater in-depth rest, reflection and planning.
Here is a little description on the benefits of each Re-Treat Plan:
* Any time micro Re-Treat – Reap the benefits of awareness pauses.
* Daily mini Re-Treat – Make the most starting and reviewing every day.
* Weekly Re-Treat – Focus on goals, balance and peace of mind.
* Monthly Re-Treat – Focus on rejuvenation and staying on purpose.
* Quarterly/Yearly Re-Treat – Precious solitude to relax and reconnect with your big picture.
Do these retreats on your own, with a friend or facilitate them with a group.
Give yourself and your life the attention you deserve. Create an agreement with yourself right now. Write “Re-Treat” in your calendar or planner at the end of each quarter, each month and each week. Pamper yourself with your own undivided attention and watch your life flourish!
If we want our lives to be meaningful, then we must make each day meaningful. If we have goals, we need to do something to move towards our goals every day. We can’t put this off until tomorrow! Claim your power to take charge. Choose what you want and make it happen. Learn to say ‘no’ to reduce the demands, interruptions and busyness in your life. Spot and eliminate your time wasters. Focus on awareness, efficiency, decision making and handling tensions.
“Reflection is one of the most underused yet powerful tools for success.”-- Richard Carlson
John Robson is a certified Journaling facilitator. One of his focus lies on extensive personal and spiritual growth tool kit that will help people find their own worth, power, purpose and joy. With the online effective time management skills workbook, he'll show you how to STOP and BE AWARE of how you are choosing to use the precious time of your life.