One morning in early February, I awakened to the sound of birds chirping in my back yard.  It stood out because I had not heard birds chirping since the fall.  I looked out the window, and sure enough, a pair of red cardinals were singing away as they fluttered about the back yard.  Then a few weeks ago, I saw what I thought were teeny buds on the trees around our neighborhood.  It seems a little early for spring blossoms, I thought.  I'm sure it's wishful thinking.  If you've read my writing for any length of time, you know I love warm weather and sunshine.  But today, I went outside to investigate.  As a chilly breeze reminded me that it's still cold despite the sunshine, I reached up and grabbed a low-lying tree branch.  To my delight, little pale pink buds are beginning to sprout.  I smiled.  It is a little sign that my favorite season is almost here. J

            It's encouraging to notice the little signs that what you want is on the way - it reminds you that you are moving forward even when it sometimes feels as though the season you are in will last forever.  It is very easy to ignore the little signs, but when you do you miss the beauty of transformation as it occurs.  My guess is that your life is in a process of change right now - whether in a relationship, your finances or health, your work or spiritual life.  There are changes you are making, and sometimes it feels as though the change isn't coming fast enough! 

            This week, I challenge you not only to notice the ways in which you need to practice patience, but also the ways in which you need to embrace the process.  In our world of quick-fix makeovers and instant gratification, we have lost our appreciation for the journey.  There is something to appreciate at every stage of your journey. 

Here are a few simple ways you can appreciate the little signs that your desires are unfolding:

 

·         You've learned to do something that previously was a struggle to you, such as saying "no" or standing up for yourself.

·         In a difficult relationship, you no longer just "react" out of emotion because a button has been pushed, but you actually pause to gather your thoughts and then "respond" effectively.

·         In your effort to be healthier, you've changed something simple by lowering the number of soft drinks you consume or eating dinner by 7 o'clock rather than late in the evening.

·         In your finances, you've started saving consistently, even if a small amount.  The little sign appears every time your savings grows.

·         ____________________________________________(You fill in the blank.)

 

Acknowledging little signs of transformation empowers self-efficacy, your belief that you can accomplish the things you set out to accomplish.  You build authentic confidence when you notice your progress.  Change rarely happens all at once.  While you are waiting for the "big" goal to be achieved, don't miss out on the milestones along your journey that are worthy of celebration.

 

My challenge to you this week:

Acknowledge a little sign that you are making progress.

 

Journaling assignment:

In what ways are you farther along on your journey than you were six months ago or even a year ago?  What did it take for you to make that progress?  What is the next milestone you are aiming for?  What will it take for you to progress to that point?

 

Until next time ...

 

Please feel free to forward the Rich Minds, Rich Rewards E-Newsletter to friends and colleagues, but please forward in its entirety. The Rich Minds, Rich Rewards E-Newsletter is written and distributed by Inspire, Inc. Copyright (c) 2008 Valorie Burton. All rights reserved. www.valorieburton.com.