<*>The 10 Principles of Deeply Contented People<*>

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<*>The 10 Principles of Deeply Contented People<*>

by Joan Marques

Once you have reached that stage in your life where you realize

that everything is relative; that happiness matters most, and

that contentment is the ultimate reward one can get from

anything, that's when these 10 principles turn into a way of

living:

1) Know what your deepest desire is: If it's achievable (and what

is not if you really want it?), work out a plan toward

systematically fulfilling it. No dream should go unrealized.

2)Remain focused: Always distinguish the things you can change

from the ones you can't. Think of Covey's circle of

concern and circle of influence. The basic message is; if you

can't do anything about it, it's not worth wasting energy or

emotions on.

3) Prioritize: Your children, life-partner, parents, and other

loved ones are invaluable in your life. Give them the time and

place they deserve...before you find yourself having ended up

isolated. Loneliness is too high a price to pay, if you can do

anything at all to prevent it.

4)Be flexible. Know your direction, but be agile enough to adapt

to change. Surprises are a natural part of life. Don't get

knocked out by unexpected events. Limberness is a key-element in

the maintenance of your peace of mind, or even, your sanity!

5)Take a break. Go for what you want; but realize that time-outs

are as important as the journey itself. If you allow yourself to

take some rest in between, your spirit will get the chance to

refocus and revitalize: Your mirror gets polished; your saw gets

sharpened.

6)Pamper yourself regularly. Don't overspend, but a few " playful "

steps along a predominantly serious pathway may ignite an energy

boost that will bring back all lost vibrancy in your tread. It

will keep the child within you alive.

7)Dare! Succumb to your spirit of adventure now and then. Don't

let plans just remain plans. Realize them! Travel! Go out! Dance,

if you can! Just do it all!

8)Smile. If you don't have anyone to smile to, try your mirror.

If there's anyone who deserves your brightest smile, it's

yourself anyway! Besides, you know that a good laugh doesn't only

activate all muscles in your face, but keeps you young and

healthy as well, right? So why not practice it frequently!

9) Keep your cool: Unpleasant surprises are also part of the

game. Understand that, whenever they arise, panicking is not a

viable option. Take a step back, try to obtain the broad picture-

and then decide on your tackling strategy. A well-considered

approach can be a lifesaver.

10)Feel! Long after thinking has lost its effect, feeling lasts.

If you base your choices, decisions, and values on feelings

rather than calculations; if you lend your inner-voice an

empathetic ear, you will end up being pleasantly surprised by the

positive effects this will have on yourself and others.

Life is beautiful. Smell the roses while-and as often as-you can.

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