Boundaries and limits...

We all live under the constraints of two different boundaries, one that is actually real and an imaginary one that we think exists. We limit our actions to the boundaries that we impose on ourselves and not necessarily the boundaries we actually have. In a nutshell, we stop when we think we have to instead of stopping when we can't go any longer.

Pushing boundaries is an important step in growth. As a child we established boundaries to understand right and wrong, develop our maximums, and to see what is possible. As we grow older, people lose sight of growth. People tend to fall into routines and habits, while forgetting to explore their own personal limits.

While living in comfort, people tend to find excuses why things are impossible. Falling to even trying, they've already discounted the possibility. It's a lot easier to say "no" than it is to say "yes". A "no" doesn't change your lifestyle, while a "yes" might create change. Change to some people is a dirty word. Sadly enough, most people forget that from change emerges growth.

Self imposed restrictions or failing to try doesn't necessarily negatively affect an individual, but it doesn't add to them either. Life is a process, challenge yourself and increase your limits. Find your boundaries in life and work harder to expand them. Life has no handbook... try until you fail and then try again.

Most of all, keep smiling...

Dynamics involve movement...

Perception is reality and change is inevitable. It's not simply the changes within ourselves, but also the changes in others, that allow us to grow as individuals. As others grow and blossom, our reaction to these change help shape us. Therefore their growth may alter you.

Everyone has a different interpretation of life. Our eyes do not see... they simply absorb photons. Our ears do not hear... they simply receive pressure waves. It's our brain that interprets these signals.

When other people grow, it's up to us to accept it. The person who you once viewed in one manner may no longer be the person you envision. The other person may have changed and grew so your perception of them is now false. If the person you once viewed as needy, no long relies on you, it's up to you to accept the change in the relationship because even if you know it or not, it has changed.

Our brains interprets our stimuli, but our brains are simply a body part. Our thoughts and actions are derived from our minds. It's our minds that influence our decisions... it our minds that give us our perception.

Change is not easy for everyone to accept. Some people value the past or their perception of the past too much to want it changed. Some people live in an environment or culture based on tradition and are simple content with their existing comfort. Others surround themselves with like-minded people who are rigid and are unwilling to change.

Relationships of every kind are dynamic. Expand your mind and allow for change. Have a wonderful day everyone and always remember to keep smiling...

Active Listening...

Active listening is not the art of hearing, but the art of understanding. You are focusing on the other person and not the next words you are saying. Everyone can hear, but most people do not listen. Become a listener.

Communication comes in many forms so be open to it. It may change from time to time, but it's usually the same message repackaged. One technique I try to use is repeat back what I have heard. Repeat back "I understood what you said... and what I heard was you are mad because..."

Anything can be justified. You can take someone's candy and when they call you on it... you can find an excuse. You thought it was yours. It was old. You were preventing them from eating it to help them. Excuses are a dime a dozen. Excuses are common, but apologies are not. Appreciate the people who hear and value the one's who listen. It's the people who listen and care that matter...

Have a wonderful day everyone and keep smiling...