“The Future Depends on What You Do Today”

When last have you refueled your tank?

During the recent unrest in my beautiful country people were concerned about a potential shortage of fuel. In and around the area where I live, I saw many people in long queues at fueling stations; waiting in excess of 30 minutes to fill up. That made me wonder: How much time are we willing to set aside to fill our own personal tanks? And when you fill it up, do you use quality fuel that will replenish the mind?

Here are just a couple of ideas on how you can refuel:

  1. Become aware of your thoughts

Our thoughts are immensely powerful. Be careful how you use this enormous power; you can use it to create the beautiful or the ugly. In a split second I can think myself into victory or misery. So, what are you thinking?

  1. Create boundaries

As much as there is value in open-door policies, being constantly available to family, friends and colleagues means that there is a constant outflow of energy and soon the tank will run empty. You cannot be there for everyone else all the time unless you are also there for yourself. This implies that you need to create boundaries, i.e., times when you just focus on you and where you do not allow others to intervene.

A simple way of creating boundaries is to have a specific time when your work day commences and finishes and not taking phone calls outside those boundaries. Start small; one step at a time.

  1. The healing powers of nature

Nature provides great stress relief by enabling us to remove ourselves from the things that cause us stress in the first place. So, if you are struggling with feelings of depression or fear, spend some time outdoors and focus your senses of sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch on your natural surroundings.

And do not forget about the power of the sun! Not only does the sun warm us up, but the sun’s UV rays help your body to produce Vitamin D, which is important for your bones, blood cells and immune system. It also helps you take in and use certain minerals, like calcium and phosphorus. All and all: sun is a must for a healthy life.

  1. Pause to see the good stuff

Yes, I have said this many times before! As much as it feels like the world rests on your shoulders, there are still so much good going on. Put some time aside every day to focus on the good stuff. Perhaps read that feel good story, share a thought about something good that has happened. It is all a matter of perspective.

  1. Limit social media

How much time do you spend every day on social media? Was it really time well spent? There are so many negative stories, fears and anxieties spread on social media. These might well add to your state of mind and empty tank. Make a conscious decision to change that.

  1. Build healthy connections

Surround yourself with family and friends that are good for your emotional well-being. It might be a bit harder with family however, you can choose who your friends are. Are they contributing to your well-being or are they dragging you down into negativity and stress?

  1. Be present in the moment

When last have you tasted your lunchtime sandwich or salad? Really focused on it and tasted every element? It has become the illness of our time to run from one thing to the other without being present in the moment. A lot has been said and written about mindfulness and being present. Perhaps one of those Apps would be useful to you. Else, just start with your meals: experience every bite or sip and enjoy it!

You become what you digest into your spirit. Whatever you think about, focus on, read about, talk about, you’re going to attract more of into your life. Make sure they’re all positive. Germany Kent.