Creating
An Effective Toolbox For Success
By
Annette Colby
WHAT’S IN YOUR TOOLBOX?
Think tools are just for builders and construction
workers? Think again!
Everyone needs a well stocked toolbox.
Over the years, given the wisdom of life’s experiences
and much learning, I have assembled my own psychological
toolbox. It contains, among other things,
Ideas from diverse schools of thought
Different ways of perceiving
Trust in the wisdom contained in my body
An open mind
An open heart
A creative spirit
Acquiring effective coping tools changed my life.
(There's an understatement!) In times of stress, these tools
bring me back to center and realign me with my higher self.
They lead me to receiving nourishment when I need comfort.
They help me find safety within myself and in this world. I
now have many practices which reconnect me to divine source
when I wander off the path. When worry, stress, self-doubt,
or victim thinking fill my mind, it's time to dig through
the toolbox and pull out one (or many) strategies that help
bring me back into a more natural state of peace and
empowerment.
Each of us has a range of coping mechanisms that we
employ when faced with stress. Sometimes, a solution as easy
as taking a few deep breaths and putting the situation back
into perspective can bring us back into balance. Once in a
while a brisk walk outdoors brings us a sense of relaxation
when we need it most. While at other times a steamy bath,
candles, Mozart, and cup of warm tea is what is needed to
soothe the body, mind and soul. What doesn't work is
continuing to worry about the problem without taking action,
remaining in victim thinking, berating ourselves, or
ignoring our needs.
Most people have a toolbox of coping mechanisms that
effectively get us through life’s tougher situations. But if
that toolbox isn’t very full with empowering tools, then we
are unable to cope with balance when a stressful situation
arises. Oftentimes, people who use food to cope (anorexia,
bulimia, compulsive overeating, binge eating, etc.) do not
have many soothing, calming, nurturing tools to alleviate
anxiety. The use of food or addiction becomes one of the few
ways to reduce the effects of stress from the mind and body.
Whether you're aware of it or not, you have a toolbox.
But maybe it’s time to inventory the contents. Do your tools
help you survive - or do they help you thrive? Are there
enough tools to support you as you build the life you want?
Take a look at the following two lists and notice how you
would go about the business of consciously filling your
personal toolbox for success
Some questions to ask yourself:
1) How can I utilize my tools better?
2) What new tools do I need to acquire?
3) Which tools can I replace or eliminate?
INEFFECTIVE TOOLBOX STRATEGIES:
Self-judgement (stupid, lazy, worthless, etc.)
Self-criticism
Poor me
Big fat slob
Self-pity
I can never have what I want
Seeking other’s acceptance
Mental chatter
Binge eating
Anorexia and starving
Bulimia
Excessive busyness
Drinking
Drugging
Numbing out
Excessive Sleep
Checking out
Depression
Creating illness in times of stress
EFFECTIVE TOOLBOX STRATEGIES:
Communicating and expressing feelings
Supportive self-talk
Journal writing
Self soothing strategies
Talking to self in mirror with encouraging statements
Releasing anger safely and effectively
Accepting emotions and emotional pain
Voicing emotions instead of stuffing emotions down
Speaking truth instead of hiding real feelings, opinions
Setting written goals
Recognizing accomplishments and successes
Empowering affirmations
Visualization and imagery
Relaxation strategies
Abdominal breathing techniques
Healthy movement, dance, yoga, etc.
Inspirational books, poetry, religion
Emotionally supportive music
Surround yourself with beauty
Add more fun to your life!
Copyright 2005, Dr. Annette Colby, all rights reserved.
Dr. Annette Colby, RD
Nutrition Therapist & Master Energy Healer
Annette@AnnetteColby.com
972.985.8750
"Opening Creative Portals to Success"
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