Admittedly, I have not studied Buddha but have heard words of wisdom expressed over the years that allude to the philosophy. To begin and appropriately so, patience and open-mindedness are indeed the key to strategic planning.
It’s the holiday season proclaiming joy and happiness to all. But joy and happiness just like stress and close-mindedness begin with you. Examine where your happiness meter reads and if improvements need to be made in order to convey the holiday spirit all year round. After all, this is what people notice about you first, and is the earmark of your personal brand.
Contemplate the following questions in order to find peace within and a joy filled New Year:
1. Are you or are you not happy? Which events led up to where you are today that put you in the current frame of mind? How can you either turn a negative situation around to the positive, or maximize the positive you are already experiencing? Equally important is the question, how may you share the joy by advising others how to improve upon theirs?
2. Do you stress or enjoy the holiday spirit? It is said that “being in the moment” brings additional happiness. But gift giving in the traditional sense may bring about stress in the sense of waiting in long lines, as well as monetary concern.
The focus on having to purchase gifts might be changed into the gift of helping in ways other than monetary. It truly is the spirit of giving of yourself that matters. For example, you might donate time to an organization, food to a shelter, or teach classes to those trying to begin anew. Any type of community service is the larger gift of all as you help many.
3. Will you be alone or celebrating with others? Should you feel or be alone, then seek out a community that could use your wisdom and presence. Being among those where you are appreciated will make all the difference and you will leave the feeling of loneliness behind plus you just might make a new friend.
4. Who do you know that might be alone during the holidays? As names of past connections and current friends come to you, pick up the phone to have a “thinking of you” conversation. Wish them a good New Year and ask if they have special plans in the making. You will definitely help to lift the spirits of others with your inquiry and sincere interest.
5. Do you feel renewed spirit in the air? Having used some quiet time to ponder the above questions, and perhaps having taken action on some of the suggestions, should serve to motivate you into the wondrous New Year.
Now it’s time to reflect on how all of the above may translate into finding your next best job or clientele. May you have an Excellent New Year! And may you perceive it as the Smooth Sale. Buddha would be proud. 🙂
