Often, I make plans, consider options, and let the creative juices to flow.

Forsythia by Rose Elaine
Gratitude Journal

I prop myself up in the morning, listen to my radio program, and drink a cup of coffee before I even get out of bed.  It is my time to think, meditate, and allow myself some time before I ramp up for the rest of the day.  Often, I make plans, consider options, and let the creative juices to flow.

If you do not currently find an hour a day to reflect, I highly recommend this practice.  I have found this time will lower my stress, and it gives me the right mindset for tackling the issues that need to be addressed.

Research shows that employees that reflected on their studies 15 minutes a day about their lessons performed 23% better than those who did not reflect.

Jennifer Porter reported in Harvard Business Review March 21, 2017, that we should make time for self-reflection (even if you hate doing it).  Here are some of her recommendations:

• Select a reflection process that matches your preference. Some people journal, like me, others like to walk, bike, or sit and think.

• Schedule a time, as I mentioned, I like early mornings before the rush of the day. 

• Start small; maybe an hour is too long for you, perhaps 10 or 15 minutes would be a great way to begin. 

Purchase your Gratitude Journal: Forsythia (Journal / Notebook / Diary)

Rose Elaine Artist Website

Purchase Rose Elaine Artwork at Fine Art America

Today the birds are singing; I hear cars driving past my house and children playing in the neighbor's yard. A dog barks, again, I listen

Today the birds are singing; I hear cars driving past my house and children playing in the neighbor's yard.  A dog barks, again, I listen to the birds while the breeze flows through the trees, causing the leaves to rustle in the wind.   It is pleasant, indeed.  It is quiet, and yet there is much activity.   One neighbor begins to rev up his car motor, and then it stops.  I can hear a saw begin to turn, and men start to speak, some home maintenance; perhaps,  another car drives by, children playing tag, my husband is on the phone with a client, and then as if on cue the leaves rustle in the wind again.
The sounds in synchrony.  Footsteps, a door opens and shuts, a shower begins, and a toilet flushed.  More birds sing, and our wind chimes play music as a gust of wind reminds it of its purpose.

When I turn off the T.V. and radio, I sit and listen to the world around me; I can be mindful.  When I jot down the things I hear, and I can focus on the moment.  For 5 minutes, connected with life, and I am content.

Try this journaling technique today.  What did you hear, how did these noises make you feel?  Did you find a way to relax?