The Practices of Renewal

Many of us are working harder than ever before because the economy is difficult and fear has overtaken creativity as the driving force of global enterprise.  

That can lead to higher stress levels and exhaustion. 

Every day, I receive phone calls from my clients looking for help in addressing work-life balance issues. It's becoming a pandemic.

Here are ten practices that, when used together, help us counter the negative effects of worry, overwork and competing demands.

1.  Rest – the ability to take regular breaks from the exertion and stress of action refreshes the mind and body through sleep, stillness and leisure.

2. Proper nutrition – a balanced diet of nourishing food and drink that keeps the body healthy and well-hydrated supports peak performance, recovery and growth.

3. Play – full engagement in fun and uplifting activities rejuvenate and relax the physical systems.

4. Companionship – surround yourself with people you love, trust and admire. People who make you laugh – especially at yourself – are healing agents.

5. Reflection – the ability to take time to examine your thoughts and actions helps bring perspective to life. Without reflection it's hard to figure out how to use your time properly or what's worth doing.

6. Exercise – physical engagement and training ensures that your body stays in top shape for the rigors of the road.

7. Self-acknowledgement – recognizing and developing your personal gifts, talents, character qualities and contributions contributes to a healthy level of pride and respect in oneself.  This supports well-being.

8. Pacing – managing the burn rate of your inner fire ensures that you don't burn out.

9. Patience – managing your own expectations for what can be accomplished and accepting that even the best-laid plans sometimes don't unfold as expected.

10. Planning – looking at your tasks over a short, medium and longer-term basis allows greater perspective and greater effectiveness and efficiency.

Those that allow themselves to become sluggish, fatigued or punch-drunk from the rigors of the passage between possibility and outcome are easily stopped. They become disconnected from the vision that initially inspired them and are easily overtaken by disappointment, resignation, frustration and cynicism.

That is a recipe for soul loss not Visionmaking.

© Patrick O’Neill 2009. All rights reserved.