Our beliefs influence the way that we see and interact with the world.  Our thoughts form our beliefs.  Therefore, we see and experience that which we believe.  So, if we wish to create a life of peace, harmony, and happiness, we must be disciplined in managing our thoughts.  

Rather than simply allowing thoughts to happen, we can begin to nourish our mind with thoughts of gratitude, appreciation, and wonder. There are three disciplines that, when consistently practiced over time, will create a rapid and visible transformation to your daily experience of life

Morning Meditation:  before you begin the busy part of your day, take 10 minutes to meditate.  Turn off all distractions (phone, television, music, etc), seclude yourself from others and sit in a comfortable position.  Close your eyes and notice your breathing. Rather than trying to control, manage or eliminate your thoughts, simply notice them (without attaching yourself to or pursuing the thoughts). If this presents a challenge (which it often will for many in the beginning), consider listening to a guided meditation.

The Daily Gratitude Journal:  each night before you go to bed, write five things specific to the day that you appreciate.  Rather than allowing yourself to broadly categorize ("I am grateful for my family"), focus on events of the day. "I love that my son cleaned his room without being asked." "I am so grateful for the delicious chicken carbonara that I had for dinner."  "I am thrilled that it was such a beautiful sunny day that I was able to walk to the store."  Keep the journal containing your written diary of "good." When you are feeling disconnected or down, review your journal so that you can remember the many blessings that continue to be present in your life.

Watch your words:  begin to take note of your use of the words, "don't," "not," and "no."  When you are using these words, you are speaking about what you do NOT want. When you catch yourself, stop and rephrase, speaking what you DO want instead.  

When we cook, we mix specific ingredients intended for a specific end.  The taste of the food is a result of the chosen ingredients and preparation. What comes out is in direct correlation to that which we put in.  The same is true in our lives.  Continuing to focus on the good (the recipe--all that is working, effective and enjoyable) will create a happier, more harmonious life.

Success or sabotage?  Success is created. There is no "one size fits all" means of achieving success, but there are exercises, tools, and attitudes that are universal in their effectiveness.

Is this going to be an incredible day?  What do you THINK?