"Takin' Time Out"

Definition: Move or cause to move from one place to another, especially over a small distance.  A slight change in position, direction, tendency.  One of two or more recurring periods in which different groups of workers do the same job in relay.  To transfer from one place, position person to another.

 

Whew, what another wild and crazy week, just when I thought it couldn’t get any more overwhelming…well it did!  While “Takin Time Out” over this past weekend I tried to step back and review the current situation analyzing how I could have been better prepared or what immediate changes need to be made to endure the next few weeks and months while trying to enjoy the precious holiday season because my belief in “Makin Memories” is a must and enduring our busiest time of year at work.  Being the visual person I am, I clearly wanted to look at the BIG picture and not just the task at hand. During the process and focusing on my word of the year “Awareness” it clearly came to me I needed to make a SHIFT!  I understand I can’t change the situation but I can SHIFT my attitude, priorities, but most of all my self-talk (words I say) to adapt and make the very best of what is yet to be!

 

Let’s think about this for a moment…how many times do we make a statement and it may have a negative undertone?  For example when a friend asked what you are doing tomorrow you make a statement with a sigh, “I have to go church” what if we would SHIFT one little word to from have to get?  “I get to go to church” your body doesn’t even think about sighing.  It is a privilege living in America to belong to a church where I can freely worship God and fellowship with friends and family without fear.  Another example, “I have to go work out” no you don’t.  You again have  the freedom to choose you get to.  What a privilege it is to be able to go to a gym or studio and care for your body to maintain the healthiest lifestyle possible.  One simple little way of stating things by changing one word can make a subtle SHIFT with your whole mindset and adjust your attitude towards your goal.

 

The word SHIFT reminded me of the first vehicle I ever learned to drive was a 1970 two tone 4-wheel drive Ford truck with an extra-long stick SHIFT on the floor board.  You had to push in the clutch, making sure it was in neutral then SHIFTING it into gear, slowly letting off the clutch while stepping on the gas, with my hands firmly gripping the stirring wheel of which I could barely see over I was about 9 years old (the privileges of living in the country)…yes it would lope along in the beginning but eventually I got the feel of it and off we went down the dirt roads eventually stirring up dust.  I loved growing up in the country.  Actually I made sure each one of my children learned to drive a stick shift living in the city, it sometimes was not so easy especially when you come upon an embankment with a stop light.  As you start to take off you roll back a bit hoping not to hit the car behind you.  You step on the gas and your head was thrown back a bit but off we went.  Absolutely love the thrill and excitement of SHIFTING gears while flying down the highway!   If you think about it life is a bit like this too.  We each must learn to shift gears and keep moving forward!  I am the primary driver of my destination so I will keep my foot on the accelerator, SHIFTING gears, slowing down and stopping on occasion to rest, refuel and reframe my brain and adapt to change!

You know change can be good but not always the solution to the problem, sometimes just a little shift will do the trick.  Let’s think about it this way, think of a time you have had to sit for a long period of time.  Maybe on a plane, train or in a seminar.  Are you one that can sit in one position and not move, or are you the one who fidgets all the time?  Have you noticed if your mind starts to wonder off and if you will shift your position just a little you become more alert?  Well I think any challenge we face we can make a shift and things will improve.  We can refer to it as a Paradigm Shift…a different way of thinking or approaching matters, here are just a few to think about:

 

Old Paradigm vs New Paradigm

Train vs Develop

Observe vs Understand

Have a Plan vs Have a Purpose

Start with What vs Start with Why

Compete vs Collaborate

Play the game vs Change the game

Discourage vs Embrace

 

As I am sipping on the most scrumptious cup of hot tea a friend gave to me it is called green mango peach by tea forte.  Mmmm  simply delicious!  It truly fuels my soul, I love savoring the warmth on this extremely cold night in November.  A scripture came to mind…Proverbs 16:24, “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.”

The power of words…they can impact others but most of all they impact us.  I encourage while “Takin Time Out” this week to play with or shift your words.  Let’s become more conscience of what and how we say things especially during our self-talk.  Negative and condescending words will result in negative results…Positive affirmations and SHIFTING just one word will result in a much better outcome.  Start by using Get rather than Have to.  You instantly have an attitude of gratitude rather than being resentful in the activity at hand.  November is the month of Thanksgiving let’s SHIFT our words towards being more grateful.  Also, I encourage you to SHIFT your posture, sit up a bit taller…breathe in deeply…roll your shoulders back!  I am very guilty in slumping these days whether I am driving or working on the computer.  Take more mini breaks during the day and drink plenty of water…Until next time my friends push in the clutch and make the appropriate SHIFT!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Definition: Noisy and exciting activity to attract others.  A state of confusion or hilarity.  A complex maneuver and a confusing, colorful and sometimes gaudy action.

 

Well, the weather has changed this week; it’s really cold for us North Texas folks.  We had to dig in the closet for our jackets and find some closed toed shoes with socks (boohoo).  As you can tell I prefer open toed heels or flip flops but they will now have to wait for spring.   While sipping on my warm scrumptious hot china tip green tea this evening, I have finished polishing my boots and transitioning my closet.  I will admit I have more of a variety when it comes to fall and winter clothing.  I love the beautiful scarves, bulky sweaters and tweed knit jackets.   Maybe it is all the layers and how you can mix and match I love variety and vibrancy. Yes, I am ready to RAZZLE DAZZLE folks with my fall & winter wardrobe.

 

RAZZLE DAZZLE I love how it rolls off your tongue when you say the phrase.  Let’s say it again with a longer pause Raaazzzlllee Daaazzllle!  Doesn’t it put a smile on your face?  Hopefully so if not then there is some work to be done. I am on a mission to add some glitz and RAZZLE DAZZLE to your everyday life.  We all need a little bit more fun, excitement and spontaneity wouldn’t you say?  When is the last time you colored with crayons or painted on a canvas?  This doesn’t count if you have small children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When I think of RAZZLE DAZZLE, I think of Broadway, the theatre and how uniquely talented individuals come together to perform on stage, living life through the arts.  Broadway is known for someone writing a storyline and a team of individuals construct the scene through creativity, dance, music and entertainment all on stage engaging the audience to use their imagination and make that story come to life.  Many times there is glitz and glamour a bit of RAZZLE DAZZLE like in the play Chicago, Cats, The Lion King or the famous Phantom of the Opera.

As many of you know I grew up in a small rural community with farming and ranching.  It was more of a simple kind of life however, we were very blessed to have an English teacher, Ms. Harriet Bourk that loved the arts and brought her gift and creativity to our little High School.  I had the privilege being part of the cast and participating in two musicals, Oklahoma and The Sound of Music.   Those are such precious and fond memories.  I still remember the fear I had during the audition and the stage freight opening night.  You know when you have a lump in your throat and your heart is beating so fast you just know it’s about to jump out of your chest? My palms were so sweaty.  We all spent many countless hours, long nights and weekends devoted to rehearsing, practicing, and memorizing our lines.  We let our inner child pretend to be the character we were selected for.  Ms. Bourk engaged the community to help with props and costumes.  It was our time for a little fame and fortune…The RAZZLE DAZZLE of the stage, wow what an awesome experience.  Maybe you should check out the local arts in your community this weekend?  Thank you again Ms. Bourk – You Rock!

 

As we each approach our daily lives we can add a little RAZZLE DAZZLE to the quality of work we do and by going the extra mile.  Teach the next generation the principles and values that were instilled in us as a child.  RAZZLE DAZZLE with follow-through.  Finish what you start, meet your deadlines, do a little extra and muster as much enthusiasm for the end as you had at the beginning.  That actually reminds me of a verse I have posted on my screen saver found in 2 Corinthians 8:11 “Now you should finish what you started.  Let the eagerness you showed in the beginning be matched now by your giving.  Give in proportion to what you have.” I hope that resonates with you…

 

We just celebrated Veteran’s Day this week and honored those who have fought and many lives lost for our nation’s freedom.  I am so thankful for the dedication of our armed services!  I am amazed how much they sacrifice, while only one day of the year is dedicated solely to honor them, Americans must never forget what they have done to defend our country and protect our freedom day in day out in the most unpleasant conditions.

There is nothing more attractive to the human spirit than our freedom.  How is your personal life is there any freedom lacking in any area of your life?  Do you feel trapped or carrying around a heavy burden?  Do you need an intervention, have you restricted your progress in some way maybe you need to go back to school or find an accountability partner or maybe to hire a life coach or fitness coach to help you over the hurdle.  Are you playing and laughing enough?  Is there balance in your life?  Once you come through that tunnel you will be RAZZLE DAZZLED with triumphant.  Feeling free…Awe what an awesome moment!

 

Knowing how to RAZZLE DAZZLE may present you with opportunities but rather than impress others I encourage you to be true to yourself.  Let the glitz of your inner soul direct you and radiance will shine through in all you do.  Have you “Takin Time Out” this week to be still, breathe deeply and listen to that still small voice inside?

 

Until next time my dear friends…I hope you are “Takin Time Out” reflecting on what your contribution is to this world and your precious journey!  You have special talents and gifts to share…How are you at RAZZLE DAZZLING those around YOU?

 

 

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Definition: an area or stretch of land having a particular characteristic, purpose, or use, or subject to particular restrictions.

 

Whew, not sure about you but I have been a bit out of the ZONE this week with the recent time change.  I realize we gain an hour by falling back in the fall but it takes a week or so for my body to adapt.   I really feel for those of you with small children it makes your life a bit more difficult.  They are still waking up at their usual time yet the clock indicates an hour behind or they are hungry at 5:30 and dinner is normally scheduled for 6:30.  Maybe I should have selected adapt as my word for the week but instead while “Takin Time Out” and sipping on my warm savoring Zen Green Tea on this chilly November evening, I decided to write about the ZONE!  Stay with me please, I have some good stuff to share…

 

What comes to your mind when you think of the word ZONE?  Maybe such things as OZONE, Time ZONE, Twilight ZONE, School ZONE, War ZONE, End ZONE, Auto ZONE, Comfort ZONE, Buffer ZONE, ZONE Out or In the ZONE.  I love taking a less common word, thinking about how we use it in our vocabulary or apply to our daily lives.

 

I travel quite a bit, I prefer to drive the shorter distant trips rather than flying, this gives me plenty of time to think, listen to various podcasts, audiobooks, the radio or complete silence.  Yes, I love silence.  However, it is inevitable I will always run into a construction ZONE.  How many times have you driven for what seem to be miles and miles, with one lane of traffic and construction cones down the middle of the highway, construction equipment in the median but not a construction worker in sight right smack dab in the middle of the day?   Then there are always my commute around the metroplex, I have to plan ahead many times being cautious of where all the school ZONEs are while I am en-route early in the morning or around 3:00 pm to my next appointment.  If I happen upon one of these whether it be a construction or school ZONE, instead of being irritated for these little interruptions, I take a deep breath, slowing down a bit, realizing it does provide more time to learn patience, and be thankful for progress.  I contribute to my belief system everything truly happens for a reason.

 

Also, while traveling about how many times do we hit a dead ZONE with the cell service, maybe you are right in the middle of a conversation and all of a sudden you ask a question and no one is on the other end or you try to call out and it is hung in space somewhere?  There are other Dead ZONEs more commonly known as hypoxia which refers to a reduced level of oxygen in the water.  Animal and plant life suffocates and dies off.  One of the largest dead ZONEs forms is found in the Gulf of Mexico and is approximately the size of the state of Connecticut.  It typically will happen in the spring and some scientists feel humans pay tribute by fertilizing their crops and excess nutrients may run off.   The intensity can vary from year to year.  However, it can happen naturally another large dead ZONE is found bordering Jordan, Palestine and Israel known as the Dead Sea.  It has attracted visitors from around the Mediterranean basin for thousands of years.  Did you know it was one of the world’s first health resorts for Herod the Great?  There is a wide variety of products people have made from the salt and minerals such a balms for Egyptian mummification to cosmetics and herbal sachets.  I find this to be amazing.

 

In the Bible the Dead Sea goes by many different names:

• In the book of Genesis, the Dead Sea is called the Vale of Siddim: “All these were joined together in the Vale of Siddim, which is the Salt Sea” (Genesis 14:3).
• In the book of Joshua, the Dead Sea is called the Plains Sea: “That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the Sea of the Plain, even the Salt Sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho” (Joshua 3:16).
• The book of Zechariah refers to the location as the Former Sea (i.e., meaning “early”; the Hebrew root q.d.m.  means “early” or “before” and thus also refers, spatially, to the east, where the sun rises. Therefore, the phrase “Former Sea” indicates that the Dead Sea is located in the eastern part of the land of Israel): “And it shall be in that day, that living waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward the Former Sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be” (Zechariah 14:8).

 

Well we are in the height of one of my favorite sports football season, I love cheering for my favorite team whether it be our local pee wee or school team, the famous NFL but I have to say College is my favorite especially when the underdog pulls out an amazing win.  Nothing better than a fantastic catch right before Halftime and that amazing run right into the END ZONE…Score!  Can’t you hear the crowd roaring and the band playing?

 

Speaking of halftime, I am well into my second halftime of life. While “Takin Time Out” I have a habit of reflecting on where I am and where I want to be and how I am going to get there.  Last week we addressed the word Fear and how it can paralyze us from moving forward but there is another area called our Comfort ZONE I would like to talk about.  How many of you would say the older we get the more we live our daily lives in the Comfort ZONE?  The mental space we live in where there are boundaries and you feel a sense of emotional security with your work and your decision making?  I will admit it is cozy and safe in this little box we have built.  However, are we becoming a little more complacent and way to comfortable?  Taking things for granted?

What changes would you like to make or items on your bucket list you haven’t completed?  What is holding you back?  Don’t park permanently in your Comfort ZONEs.

 

Please do not misunderstand me, I am not implying your comfort ZONE is a bad thing.  I am simply pointing out your comfort ZONE maybe holding you back from learning or experiencing new things and preventing you from becoming more of what God has created you to be.

 

Here are a few things to consider in asking yourself if your comfort ZONE is holding you back:

Excessive Stress

Boredom

Settling

Mediocrity

Are you always tired

Depression

Self-criticism

Excuses and lots of them!

A stagnant or failing business or relationship

Envy

Anxiety or Fear of your situation

 

If I have hit a nerve maybe it is time to take a deep breath and begin to stretch… I am encouraging you to put on a new set of spectacles and envision your life of thriving not just surviving!  Let’s step out of the Comfort ZONE into another wide open adventure of passion, success, excitement, fulfillment, purpose, freedom, self-discovery and truly making a difference in this world!  Can’t you feel your adrenaline rising or a spark of enthusiasm, I hope so.  I encourage taking baby steps and accept that we are less than perfect.

 

Let’s do a fun little exercise, you will need a timer, pen and paper or if you are tech savvy you may use your computer.  I call this dumping or downloading and for the next ten minutes just start typing or writing all those dreams, desires or things you would like to do or be…no rules…let’s get a bit crazy…after all we are stepping outside that comfort ZONE!  What is it going to hurt you are only taking action by releasing it from your mind or heart and putting it down on paper…NOW BEGIN!

 

STOP…ten minutes are up!  Whew…take a deep breathe congratulations you did it!  You have taken the first step in crossing the line outside your comfort ZONE.  How does it feel?  I know a bit strange…

 

For those who didn’t participate you may be thinking I have lost my mind and this is the dumbest blog you have ever read.  That is fine you can stay in your predictable space, knowing what is going to happen…that is fine by me.  It’s your loss not mine and you will never truly know what you are capable of until you try!

 

For those who did participate, now look at your list and choose one or two things you are going to work on and take action.   Set a date of when you are going to start.  Maybe find a buddy or accountability partner to help encourage you in breaking your barriers and stepping further out of the comfort ZONE.  You may want to choose someone you already know but maybe try someone new someone who won’t hold you back especially if your item is a bit crazy or adventurous.   Changes are good and it is always more fun with a friend!!

 

If you will spend just a few minutes each day visualizing your success and your dreams you will become more willing to take further action.  You have so much more potential than you give yourself credit…eventually you will find yourself operating in Your ZONE of Genius!  You are closer than you think in maximizing your performance of possibility and being in The ZONE and outside your comfort ZONE.

 

Well I must wrap it up for this week…I am in the ZONE and moving forward…I hope while you are “Takin Time Out” you will consider stepping outside your Comfort ZONE and maximize your potential until next time my dear friend don’t let the OZONE cloud your dreams…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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