2015 New Beginings

Dear Friends,

 I ran across this jewel unexpectedly and wanted to share with you. Today’s column was supposed to be about something else entirely. With commentary by Dr. Bob Rogers, DVM, he presented Mr. Bridges’ article about being an advocate for your pet but in all honesty, I believe it is a wonderful piece about be being an advocate for yourself and life- starting today!

 I hope this passage by Williams Bridges with additional comments by Dr. Rogers inspires you as it has me. Please stop at the end of these words “when you first started” for yourself. I hope you have a wonderful January.

  Where being the advocate for your pet is our primary concern. Finding the courage to embrace truth and manage change. Williams Bridges, in his book, “Managing Transitions” points out that before we can make transition we must:

1. Leave our comfort zone.
   
2. Travel through a time of unsettledness.
   
1. mixed messages
   
2. one step forward, one step back
   
3. Arrive at a new beginning.  

 I know that for most of us, the more we research the data available, the more easily we will realize a path that is clear for us to take. Bridges recommends these strategies to reduce the stress.

1. Avoid the neural zone.
   
1. avoid taking the path of least resistance
   
2. you feel that change will never end so you avoid it
   
3. if change is good you go first
   
2. Take timeouts.
   
1. take the time to take care of yourself
   
2. more energy to manage transitions
   
3. Take Stock
   
1. reflect
   
1. what are long term consequences?
   
2. tell yourself the truth
   
4. Force yourself if you have to
   
1. for the only difference between a rut and a grave is the forward motion.
   
5. Be proactive.
   
1. read
   
2. learn
   
3. be prepared for what you learn is not always what you expect
   
6. Spend time with people who empower you to be the best that you can be.
   
1. avoid nay-sayers
   
2. avoid angry and reactive and those in denial