Mindful Archives - Blocks of Life

March 15, 2025February 20, 2025 by Pete Wiley

The Thorny Path of Irritability

It might start with a series of little things, or it might start with a big thing. There are many paths toward irritability, but you only take one. Once you’re down that path, you’re committed. The mood runs its course, and you have to ride it out. But the choice is yours whether to ride it out with eyes wide open or in a state of rage-fueled, self-righteous denial. Either way, irritability can ruin your day, making everything seem heavy and onerous. But even in this state, you have an opportunity to get to know yourself better.

March 1, 2025February 6, 2025 by Pete Wiley

Make Your Vision a Reality

I’ve seen a lot of examples of hypocrisy in recent years—people preaching about ideals then completely failing, in their words and actions, to live up to those ideals. Of course, none of us is perfect. Failing to live up to your vision for yourself and your life is not inherently hypocritical, and it’s good to have aspirational ideals—ideals you hope and plan to live up to. It’s entirely different to espouse an ideal and live your life completely contrary to it because it’s convenient or beneficial.

November 9, 2024October 3, 2024 by Pete Wiley

What are you thinking?—How to Direct Your Thoughts

What are you thinking about… right now?

It’s a simple question, but it’s so important. Our thoughts are the content of our consciousness. They are how we process the world and our experiences. We can choose our thoughts, but only to a certain extent. Errant thoughts will always arise, and some will be unpleasant and unwelcome. Some thoughts may cause worry, sadness, or anger. The relationship between our thoughts and our emotions is direct and often uncontrollable. However, with focus and practice, we can better control our thoughts and the emotions they stir.

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September 28, 2024October 3, 2024 by Pete Wiley

Take to Travel—Making the Most of Time Away

Travel can be trying for many people. The stress of driving and flying, the arrangements to make for pets, the packing—it can all lead to a feeling of dread about traveling. But, like most things, a little planning and an open mind can cure a lot of ills. Flexibility in travel can help make for a relaxed, rejuvenating time and allow for some spontaneity of experience with unforeseen opportunities that arise. However, having some goals and a good idea of what you might do can help set the tone for the trip you want. Ultimately, a balance between flexibility and planning will lower the stress and make for meaningful and rewarding travel.

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September 14, 2024August 3, 2024 by Pete Wiley

Make it Count—Doing What’s Important

Do you have time for the important things in your life? We all go through life doing what we do, what comes up in our day, and what others ask of us. Ideally, we also engage in pursuits we’re passionate about and things we would love to do when there is time. Invariably, none of us has time to do everything we want. It can be frustrating when you can’t find the time for something, but if you live a full life, there will always be things that spill over and don’t fit in. It’s important to ensure that your activities are based on your priorities, not those dictated to you. You have the choice, even if it doesn’t always seem that way.

in Mindful / Proactive 0 comments