I am truly blessed to have wonderful conversations with Sharon Wikoff. Although I have known her daughter, Tiffany for over 12 years I just recently connected with her by being on her radio program “The Family Hour”. She most recently shared with me the 12 virtues of the Holy Nights Journal. I am not a practicing Christian, but these virtues are an amazing look at the spirit and self. This one in particular really captivated me, considering the world we live in today; instant gratification, having more, doing more, and getting ahead – all leads to a lot of not so positive feelings. Here is what I wrote in my journal.
Silence.
Silence can be the hardest thing to do or have at any point through your daily life. All through the day, my thoughts bounce back and forth in my head; mostly conversations that have never even happened, but are just racing around in my thoughts. I even think about the worst things, the best things and things that don’t even matter at the moment or even at all. I’ve realized that in silence you can inject a space between and my thoughts start to separate. The silence starts to pull them apart and creates an opportunity to really clearly isolate each thought and reach true clarity. This clarity brings focus and freedom! Silence brings clarity to my thoughts and actions, allows me space to re-align and create the intentions for my next steps or words.
How does this help me get in shape?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to be clear. Creating silence in your mind during times of turmoil you can make a clear decision about what you are doing. So often we can get lost in random thoughts and continue on without really embracing what we are trying to achieve. Silencing your random thoughts and focusing in on what really needs attention will create remarkable breakthroughs in your life.
Take Action!
During times of distress, difficult decisions and arguments make an effort to give yourself the gift of silence for just 15 minutes. Giving to yourself is one of the best ways to elevate your spirit and prepare you for what lies ahead. The following exercise is designed to give you a boost in clarity in a short period of time. As you continue to use this exercise it will become easier and more focused. Eventually you won’t need the timer and you can create silence for yourself whenever you may need it.
Gather these materials:
- 2 pieces of blank paper
- a pen
- trashcan
- timer
- pillow
Before you start, ensure that your environment supports your efforts for silence. Turn off all telephone ringers, tv and radio. Make sure you will not be distracted. Give yourself this gift and ensure that you will not be disturbed.
Set your timer for 5 minutes. Taking one blank sheet of paper, write down every thought that comes to mind until the timer goes off. Any thought, even if it doesn’t make sense. You are emptying your mind for this exercise. When the timer goes off. Immediately throw it away. Crumple it up and toss it. Get your pillow and make yourself comfortable whether you lay down, sit down or just kneel, make sure you can just relax. Set your timer for 10 minutes. Close your eyes and be silent. Focus on your breathing as it goes in and out. The rhythm of the exhale and inhale. Push away whatever thoughts may be trying to come into your mind. Give yourself the gift of complete silence. This may not be easy but you will be more focused after this exercise!
When the timer goes off receive this gift of silence and say “Thank You” out loud to yourself. This may seem silly but it will complete your process of receiving. Get your second sheet of paper and write your new thoughts down, whatever they may be. As you continue this process you will see clarity in your thoughts and you can use this exercise when you need to make a decision or have a judgement or an ill feeling toward another person.
If you read this, I’d love to hear your comments please post them below!
