The Hero's Journey, Part 3

In this post, we'll follow our hero-to-be (or heroine) as he moves through the "action" and "resolution" parts of his Quest.  To see the inner process he went through to get to this point of initiating action, please check out Part 2 of this series at my 12/22/12 post. You'll find an introduction to the topic in Part One, which is dated 11/17/12.

Step 5: Our hero steps into the unknown, along with his fears and self-doubt.  The unknown can be representing  one of many possible experiences, whether the Quest is fictional or one you may have experienced last year. Here are a few examples: dealing with illness or an injury, instead of trying to ignore it and hoping it'll go away, or maybe losing a job, and pounding the pavement every day to find a new one.

Photo (c) iStockphoto/frender

Step 6: The hero-to-be interacts with others during the Journey.  He often meets new people along the way, and they sometimes tend to be the kind of people who at first, seem like unlikely pals, or even enemies.  This is all part of the uncertainty he endures.

The friends usually play a part in helping the hero through the crises that he faces during the Quest.  As we'll see later, the hero faces the big, looming, ultimate challenge on his own.

Photo (c) iStockphoto/Stefanie Timmermann

Step 7: He's faced with a series of inner and outer obstacles along the way.  While still dealing with inner conflicts, such as fear and resistance, our hero's integrity helps him find the courage to continue confronting the outer challenges.

For example, think of a father who confronts obstacles that he never thought he could, until it comes to the welfare of his child.

"There are some things you learn best in calm,

 and some in storm." ~~Willa Cather

Step 8: The most crucial part of the mission must be faced by the hero alone.  I believe this is because Universal Wisdom wants it to be very clear that, whatever the outcome, it is the actions of the hero that have brought him to the end of his Journey.  He now feels things inside him that he did not know were there.

Photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Daniel Halvorson


"A change of feeling is a change of destiny."  ~~Neville Goddard

Step 9: The successful hero returns home with a new perspective of others, himself, and of life.  The hero may not have been successful at what he thought he was supposed to do.  However, a different kind of success can emerge from the parts of the Journey where he feels he didn't do well.

I have experienced this several times!  For me, it often seems that I've wasted a lot of time and effort on something, only to find later that it was preparing me for a new, exciting part of my life. Remember this when you experience and unwanted "nub" in the tapestry of your life!

"Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely."  

~~Auguste Rodin

Photo (c) iStockphoto.com/creativeye99 

Thanks for reading!

Susan   
                            

The Great-Life Advocate (TM)

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Photo (c) iStockphoto/Denise Kappa

~~Odds and Ends~~

What I Bring to Our Coaching Relationship, Part 3

You can find Parts 1 and 2 at my posts dated 11/17/12 and 12/22/12.

Today's Topic: I'm a catalyst for positive changes in you, so you can become the person you need to be to reach your goals, by providing...

*Challenge
*Accountability
*Feedback

In my next post, I'll explain how we work together to create your action plans.

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My post from 6 /21 /12, called "Enlightenment, the Sequel" is currently on my top-ten list of posts, according to my Blogger stats.  Please check it out!  

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Attention, Locals....  Save the Dates!  

Boyertown Wellness Fair, Saturday, March 23, 2013; complimentary Reiki samples at my exhibit table! 

Boyertown Continuing Education Program; Wednesday nights in April, I'll be teaching "Audacious Self-Care"!

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***All of my posts are (c) Susan Cleaver.***

**Member of the TriCounty Community Network, at www.tcnetwork.org**   

Enlightenment, the Sequel

My last post, from May 15, 2012, is called "Shedding Some Light on Enlightenment."  In that post, I mentioned that, even though I'm no expert on the subject, I have lots of opinions about it!  :-)

Today's post explores a few more facets of the subject, based on my friendships with people who certainly seem to be well on their way to enlightenment.

Photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Andrea Haase

I love this photo of the Yin/Yang symbol.  We're all familiar with it.  Enlightened folks live it as much as they can.  They know this symbol of balance applies to everything.  Here are a few examples:

Balance of...

• an individual's male (yang) and female (yin) energies
• action (yang) and inaction (yin)
• light (yang) and darkness (yin)
• helping others (yang) and stepping back and allowing (yin) them to learn by doing
• strength (yang) and and self-restraint (yin)
• the energy in a space (Feng Shui)
• chemicals in the body
• the foods we eat 

If you would like a challenge, observe and aid in the balancing of these energies, and see if you can think of more examples for the list.  Then click on "comments" below so we can work on this as a community.  Please let us know the results of your challenge.

photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Brian Jackson

An enlightened person is simply amazing when helping others.  Just imagine for a few moments that you are the person being helped, one-on-one.  The first thing you might notice is her soothing positive energy and the great effect it has on you.

She will give you 100% of her attention...that is so rare these days!  She's not in a hurry, and she knows how to listen.  As you speak with her, you'll soon realize that she sees your potential, and she's talking to you from that perspective.

This person frames suggestions in the most constructive way possible.  She's very open-minded, and you can see her love for humanity in her eyes.  She thrives rather than strives, and can help you do the same.  She is openly grateful for the opportunity to assist you.  Not only does she enjoy it, but she sees a tipping point at which positive energy can do even more good in this world.  And you, if you wish, are being recruited into the gentlest group of people you may ever know!

If there is any sort of boot camp at all, you were probably already there when you arrived, which could be why you're there in the first place!  It's that "dark night of the soul" boot camp, and you have come to the right person to assist you.  She can't get you out on her own, but she can point the way back to the light, if you're willing to take the many trusting steps that are required...not by her, but by your own psyche.....

I see my friends who are like this as Earth Angels.  Sometimes I ask them to turn around, so I can check for wings or a few stray feathers sticking out! :-) 

With gratitude,
Susan

Mind Spa Coaching and Reiki

with Susan Cleaver

P.S. Remember to fill us all in about the challenge above and about being in the company of these Earth Angels.  I know that many of you reading this are Earth Angels yourselves...be careful about those stray feathers!  :-)

P.P.S. Here's another post from the top ten most popular on creative4life.  You can find it in the archives under 2/22/12:

"Stewardship, Self-Care, and...Multi-Tasking?"

***All of Susan's posts on creative4life are (c) Susan Cleaver.***

***Member of the TriCounty Community Network at www.tcnetwork.org *** 

Leadership: Walking Our Talk

Some of you may remember my theme from 2011, which was "Audacious Self-Care."  Well, I guess I teach what I need to learn...when I need to learn it!

The last quarter of 2010 (when I picked the topic) and all of 2011 offered some very difficult challenges for my family and me, so putting reminders about self-care in this blog throughout the year was helpful to me.  Then things caught up with me, and I had to stop blogging for a while in favor of my self-care.  The irony was not lost on me!

I apologize for disappearing, and I will finish covering all the sub-topics of self-care that I promised my readers a year ago. Thank you for your patience.

Before we move on to talking about leadership, I would also like to announce that I've expanded my business name from the same as my name to...(drum roll please)...

Mind Spa Coaching and Reiki

with Susan Cleaver

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Now for today's topic:

Leadership: Walking our Talk





Photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Mats Persson



Last spring, on 6/3/11, I wrote a post about the value of personal leadership in preparation for this one on walking our talk as leaders.  Long-term success in leading others is based on how you manage yourself.

In the photo above, one of the components is "Lead by Example."  That would be problem if the "example," or role model, had the basics of his own life in disarray!  Poor role models either forget this, or they think it won't show.

For example, the poor role model may think it doesn't matter if their home office is messy and disorganized, because his followers never see it.  Well, they do see it...in the role model's stress level, even if his desk at work looks great.  What's more is that they can feel it on an energetic level, and they won't feel motivated by the leader.

This concept also applies to the leader's stewardship in these areas:

*integrity

*health

*finances

*lifestyle

*relationships

Think of this as if it were a pillow sham.  It looks great on the outside.  But if the pillow inside is filled with stones, it's useless to followers and leaders alike.  No wonder so many people come home from work with a headache!

Here's to great leadership,

Susan

Photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Jacob Wackerhausen

**Written material in all posts of this blog is (c) Susan Cleaver**

**Member of TCN, a local non-profit organization at www.tcnetwork.org**  

Photo (c) iStockphoto.com/CGinspiration

Stop by my Exhibit for a Coaching or Reiki Sample!

Here are the three local Health Fairs where I'll be exhibiting:

Saturday, 3/31/12, The Boyertown Health Fair

Wednesday, 4/4/12, Health, Fitness, and Safety Fair, Blue Bell, PA

Friday, 4/20/12, Healthy Lifestyles Expo, Pottstown, PA

To the best of my knowledge, there will be NO entry fee for any of these three events.  For more information, contact me at scleaver@dejazzd.com.



Goal Setting for Audacious Self-Care

~Complimentary Coaching Hot Line on Thursday, February 10!~

See details at the end of this post.

photo (c) iStockphoto.com/PeskyMonkey

Greetings, readers! If you haven't read about the Audacious Self-Care Community yet, please read my post from last week! This is a year-long opportunity to get and give support around how to take the best possible care of our selves, especially during the recession.

O.K., last week I promised I'd write more about goals. In my November post (You might want to check that one out, too.), I wrote about a popular goal-setting method called SMART Goals. The idea is to use this acronym to remember these elements of a great goal. Is your goal Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time Bound?

photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Marek Uliasz

I've used this SMART method for several years, and it has been very useful for me. My only problem has been with the last descriptor, Time Bound, especially when too many elements of the goal were out of my control.

If the "control factor" drops below about 75%, though, I feel that I'm making an uninformed decision. Then if I don't reach the quotas in my plan, I feel demoralized. I need to remember that I 'm stepping on the toes of my silent partner, Intuition. If the decision is that difficult for me, then I'm probably not the one to make it.

So, for goals where I have limited control or information, I use what I call STAR Goals:

S for Significant

Design a goal for your Audacious Self-Care that gets you out of your comfort zone. That may be a little scary, but that's O.K. You'll be moving forward, which is much more rewarding than spinning your wheels with a goal that requires only "busy work." Busy work comes from fear. It makes you feel productive while avoiding the real change you want to make.

T for Teamwork

Create an inter-developmental relationship with a partner or group. The interplay of your ideas will help you both stay motivated and to maintain flexible thinking. This is true whether you're working on the same goals or different ones. A little cross-pollination may be just what you need!

A for Accountability

Find at least one person who is willing to hold you accountable for completing what you've said you would do. If you're feeling a lot of internal resistance, you may need to check in with this person several times a day. Create a scoreboard for yourself if that helps.

R for Realistic

Design your goal so that it feels like a bit of a stretch (remember: no "busy work"). If you're feeling some excitement and some fear at the same time, that's a good sign that your goal is realistic. When you're planning, take into consideration your current responsibilities and leave room for the unexpected. Feeling overwhelmed is not only stressful but actually detrimental. Pushing through overwhelm is not a "badge of honor." Remember, this is Audacious Self-Care! Respect your limits and don't let your STAR burn out.

photo (c) iStockphoto.com/Diana Walters


I was inspired to develop STAR Goals after I heard Master Coach Dave Buck say that for the big plans he's working on now, he doesn't know when they will be complete. He's just going to keep at it until he gets the numbers he wants, even if it takes a few years!

If your goal doesn't inspire you to keep going without a specific end date, maybe you need to find a goal that you're more passionate about.

Comments and Questions, Please!

As you create your Audacious Self-Care Goals for "The Possible You," please let us know how the experience went for you. What goal-setting method did you use? What questions do you have? What advice do you have for us from your experience? What emotions do you feel when you think about your goals?

Remember, being a member of the Audacious Self-Care Community has no strings. You don't have to share your email address with me. There will be many complimentary activities to participate in. You don't have to participate in the reasonably-priced activities unless you are comfortable doing so.

I believe that being in the community will ease the sting of the recession for those who participate. I can't abide with the idea that when people need help the most is also when they can least afford it. Let's work together to pull ourselves out of that cycle!

Thank you,

Susan

P.S. I'm hosting a complimentary Coaching Hot Line on Thursday, February 10, 2011, from Noon to 8:00 pm Eastern! Just call at the top of one of these hours for a session of approximately 30 minutes. (First to call, first to be served at the top of each hour.)

Your only responsibility is to pay any long-distance charges from you phone provider. No prior registration is required. Just pick the top of the hour that works for you and call the Hot Line Number, 610-385-3766. This type of exploratory session is a $35 value!

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P.P.S. This Saturday, February 5, 2011, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm Eastern, join us for a peaceful journey around the labyrinth while listening to soothing live music! This opportunity is available in Pottstown, PA, for a small donation. Complimentary Reiki will also be available! Call me for more information at 610-385-3766 or email me at scleaver@dejazzd.com. This is a great chance to practice Audacious Self-Care!

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***All of Susan's posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

***Proud, active member of the TriCounty Community Network at http://www.tcnetwork.org/.***

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Don't Let Worry Push Your Buttons

Here are some tips...

~Be proactive about being prepared well in advance for events, etc. Just this one change has done wonders in reducing my stress level and taking worry off my plate. Make it a way of life!

~Trust yourself. Make a reasonably informed decision...then move on.

~Bodywork such as massage and Reiki, and the gentle movements of Tai Chi and yoga help to relieve anxiety and stress.

~Give challenging issues your attention when you're feeling fresh and rested. If they start to distract you at other times, write them down and put them aside until you're feeling your best.

~Gandhi said, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." I practice this, and it absolutely works! Instead of worrying about something as it is, I become the change I want to see.

~Be very selective about the kinds of media that you let into your psyche. Unless your job requires it, you don't need to be overloaded and stressed by all the bad news that's hyped up on TV, radio, and the Internet!

~Buddy up with a friend who is willing to be your sounding board in exchange for the same favor from you. Speaking your worries out loud to another person helps you keep them in perspective. It forces you to get clear enough about the issue to relay it to another.

~Journaling is another great way to clarify your thoughts and feelings about an issue.

~Look for the hidden "benefit" behind your worry. A small worry can distract you from a bigger challenge that perhaps you could make a difference on. But you feel a little unsure about it, so your subconscious mind grabs any small worry it can find as a substitute.

~Don't "feed" your worries. Like sea gulls, they will come to you in multitudes if they see you as a friendly host. Like attracts like...the Law of Attraction applies to sea gulls and worries, too. :-)

~Once you've done all you can, write down your worries and put them through the shredder! This is a great ritual for releasing worries.

~This next ritual is even more fun! Write your worries on a piece of toilet paper and flush 'em!
Happy New Year!
Susan
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P.S. I offer discount pricing for your introductory coaching session by phone or in person. Give it a try...maybe we can become partners in making your plans for 2010 unsinkable! Contact me at scleaver@dejazzd.com for an appointment.
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***Member of the TriCounty Community Network, a local human services organization at http://www.tcnetwork.info/.***

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***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

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It's Fall...Do You Know Where Your Immunity Is?

Creative living begins with taking care of your physical and emotional health. In this holistic world of ours, of course, these areas are intricately related.

Here's a list of resources for you to check out to tune up your immune system physically and emotionally:

Chiropractic Care has helped me in more ways than I can count. It has been so instrumental in supporting my immune system, I would continue to get chiropractic care just for that reason alone! When you think about it, how can we expect any of our systems to work well when nerve signals and energy flow are blocked?

Reiki is an energy practice that I use on myself, offer to others, and teach. It supports your body's efforts to prevent and heal illness as well as to ward off stress and anxiety.

Shiatsu is a delightful form of massage that's based on the energy meridian system in the body.

Keep those endorphins flowing with...

~healthy relationships

~community involvement

~exercise

~pets

~hobbies that you love

~being in nature

~humor

Monitor Your Self-Talk. As best-selling author Mike Dooley says, Thoughts become things!" (http://www.tut.com/) So...when you get the sniffles, do you say, "By tomorrow I'll be stuck in bed with a fever!" Or do you say, "My body is escorting the germs 'off the premises' as we speak!" Remember to expect what you want, not what you don't want.

To your health,
Susan

P.S. 'Haven't had a complimentary coaching session with me yet? How about this topic....

Get Your Mojo Back!

During our phone or in-person session, we'll take a look at three areas where you can take action right away!

~~~Your Values~~~Your Passions~~~Your Self-Care~~~

To set up a time, contact me at scleaver@dejazzd.com or 610-385-3766.

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***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

***Member of the TriCounty Community Network, a local human services resource at http://www.tcnetwork.info/.***

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Step up Your Intuitive Development

Here are some tips for developing your intuition:

~Be open to the idea. Your relationship with your intuition can't bloom easily without your attention and respect.

~Start small. Ask yourself who's calling before you pick up the phone. What color will your friend be wearing today? What's coming in the mail for you today? Who should you call today?

~Get Feedback. By starting small, you can get lots of feedback on issues that are not emotionally loaded or parts of crucial decision-making.

~Learn more about what intuition feels like for you. Constriction of the throat may signal a "no," while a more expansive physical sensation may signal a "yes."

~Watch for the sensation of a solid "click." This is how I often experience intuition. It feels like two or more things have come together in a meaningful way. They meet, and then settle in as a new insight with a solid "click," similar to puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly.

~Be aware of synchronicities. The timing and meaning of synchronicities may hold a message for you.

~Watch for "way closing." This is the Quaker concept that intuition can show you which way to go by blocking the other options.

~Become familiar with the language of your subconscious mind. It speaks to you through your senses. Intuition can be delivered in the form of an image, a phrase that pops into your head, or a bodily sensation, such as an unexplained knot in your stomach.

~Engage in activities that encourage intuition. Some examples are creative activities, walks in nature, meditation, a relaxing bath or shower, and giving or receiving Reiki.

Please share your experiences with intuition in the comments section!

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Need a fresh perspective? Contact me at scleaver@dejazzd.com to set up a complimentary trial coaching session by phone or in person.

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Thanks,

Susan

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***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

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***Member of TriCounty Community Network, a local human services resource at http://www.TCNetwork.info.***

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Minimize Distractions on the Front End

It's an all-too-familiar scenario: You finally have time to focus on a project that is important to you. It's full speed ahead! Until....

Knots, tangles, detours, and other interruptions spring up in your path. Ugh. These little gremlins come from three major sources:

*From the project itself (logistical issues, etc.)

*From outside of you and the project (household emergencies, technology problems, entreaties for help from others, etc.)

*From inside you (lack of sleep, ADD, fear of success or failure, etc.)

Head 'Em off at the Pass. Proactivity is a concept that has been thrown around a lot lately...and with good reason. Being proactive has become one of my most valuable ways to avoid stress! A few tips:

*Have a rainy-day fund in as many of these areas as possible:

~Time

~Space (in your physical surroundings, in your schedule, etc.)

~Money

~Flexibility

~Resources

~Patience (Learn to accept what is while still intending to move forward.)

~Supplies (It stinks to get a great idea for a watercolor painting and then realize you never got around to replacing your worn-out brushes. When inspiration strikes, the last thing you feel like doing is running an errand!)

*Educate others about your needs and boundaries.

~Let them know when your focus time is, and when you're available to be reached.

~Sure, you want to help others when they truly need it. But be firm with those who tend to disrespect your time and/or expect you to bail them out because of their own lack of planning or follow-through.

And for the gremlins and interruptions that manage to sneak through anyway....

*Ask yourself why it happened. If you could have avoided it, own up to that and learn for next time. But don't waste energy beating yourself up about it.

*Prioritize...is the interruption important enough to drop what you were doing completely, or can you put the obstacle in a holding pattern for a while?

*Dispatch...choose the best course of action for the interruption:

~Ask for help if that's appropriate.

~You may choose to deal with it on the spot, especially if it's urgent or can be gotten off your plate quickly.

~You may choose an appropriate future time to handle the issue; be sure to make a note on your calendar.

~Ask yourself if it really needs to be done at all. The gremlin may be a sheep in wolf's clothing!

Cultivate inner calm. In college I took a speed-reading course. One of the exercises was to read while hearing (but not taking in) a variety of noises on a recording. I still have a difficult time reading in a noisy environment. It's an interesting exercise, though, and may work for some folks if they practiced it enough.

Here's one I'm much better at...keeping my base-line stress level down by following my own advice from this post. This allows me wiggle room when I need it, so I can respond to situations rather than react to them.

An all-purpose reframing affirmation from author Susan Jeffers, PhD: "Whatever happens, I'll handle it." Give it a try!

All my best to you,

Susan

P.S. for locals: Don't miss the Healthy Lifestyles Expo at the Montgomery County Community College West Campus in Pottstown, PA, on Friday, April 17! I'll be demonstrating Reiki at my exhibit table. Please stop by! Contact me for more details at scleaver@dejazzd.com or 610-385-3766.

***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

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Getting the Most from Being Coached

The coaching relationship is a partnership rather than a service that is done "for" you or "to" you. Because of this, you can get the most from your coaching dollars by being the best client you can be.

Below is a list of qualities you can apply or develop in yourself that can help you get the most value from being coached.

~flexible

~open-minded

~has the ability to withhold judgement while brainstorming freely

~allows herself to be pulled forward by the synergy she has created with her coach rather than waiting for the coach to push

~follows through on commitments or is willing to take an honest look at why he didn't follow through

~enthusiastic

~has picked a compelling challenge for herself

~curious, adventurous thinker

~speaks up when he has a concern or wants the coaching to go in another direction

~clear about her values and is willing to take the time to build her personal infrastructure to support them.

I'm eager to hear from those of you who fit this profile! Your trial session is complimentary; email me at scleaver@dejazzd.com or call 610-385-3766.

Thanks,
Susan

P.S. to Locals: It was great to see so many familiar people and to meet new ones at the Boyertown Wellness Fair on Saturday! I'll also be exhibiting and demonstrating Reiki at the Healthy Lifestyles Expo in Pottstown on Friday, April 17. Contact me at scleaver@dejazzd.com for more information.

***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.**

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What Motivates a Patron to Buy Art? Here's What Stirs My Heart

Inspired by a recent visit to my favorite craft show (OJR Friends of the Arts), I'm sharing with you what motivates me to choose the particular pieces I buy there.

~The piece calls to my intuition.
~It expresses the artist's unique style and essence.
~The item may have an original twist on a well-loved theme or design element.
~It has an interesting combination of materials, textures, and colors.
~The piece has a certain earthiness to it.
~The item has a loose, flowing design that suggests a movement of energy.

At a show of this kind, I typically buy jewelry, clothing, and pottery. However, I look for these qualities in any art form, including books and performing arts, where some of these qualities tend to be more metaphorical.

I believe you should create according to what stirs your heart as a top priority, but I thought this list from an artist/patron's viewpoint might be helpful. I'd love to see your responses to the list in your comments!

Thanks,
Susan
scleaver@dejazzd.com

P.S. for Locals: Don't miss the free Wellness Fair this Saturday, March 21, 2009, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Boyertown Area Sr. High School! It's presented by the Boyertown Area Community Wellness Council. Bring the whole family; there's something for everyone.

I'm on the planning committee, so I can tell you it's going to be bigger and better than ever this year! Stop by and see me; I'll be exhibiting, giving brief Reiki treatments, and teaching a short workshop on "Embracing Imperfection."

***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

Values, Vision, and Vitality Equal Results

Here's one way I propose to look at the manifesting process, using a nautical analogy....

Values
The value that guides your vision will serve as a beacon throughout the process of manifesting that vision. For an example, let's use "helping others to help themselves" as the value. And let's say that where you are now is the shore you're currently on concerning making something happen that will align with that value.

This value gives us the compelling purpose and motivation for developing the vision.


Vision
The vision is the vehicle that will get you to the far shore, which is the manifestation of the vision. An example of a vision guided by the value above might be starting a non-profit organization that extends loans to micro-businesses in third-world countries.

Keeping the vision aligned with the value contributes to the integrity of the project. It also inspires others with the same value to support the vision.

Through the vision, you can articulate your desired results in a way that others can understand, imagine, and get behind. In computer terms, it's like putting your idea and desire into a PDF so everyone can see it easily. Next, we can partner the vision with vitality to assure the feasibility of the project.


Vitality
What resources will it take to make the project work? Vitality is the bridge for the vision to cross. This bridge must be engineered with a firm foundation consisting of self-care, financial responsibility, leadership, patience, trust, flexibility, and sustainable energy.

This foundation will help you maintain your passion and enthusiasm, and it will help you align with the Law of Attraction. Vitality will also contribute to the integrity of the project by allowing you to actually move on it, and not just daydream about it.

In the case of our example above, vitality will assure that the organization can be founded, funds can be secured and managed, and enthusiasm can be sustained.

What? You don't see yourself as a visionary? Let your values give birth to your image, and let vitality carry it to fruition!

I'd love to hear about your experiences with this model!

Thanks,
Susan

P.S. to "locals": Details will be available soon about the largest-yet 4th Annual Boyertown Wellness Council Health Fair! It'll take place on Saturday, March 21, 2009, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Boyertown Area Sr. High School.

I'll be facilitating a brief workshop on "Embracing Imperfection," demonstrating Reiki on willing participants, and hosting an exhibit table about coaching and Reiki. Order forms will be available for a special discount on my products. I hope to see you there!

***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

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Clutter-Zapping and a Calendar of Events

Out, D*%n Clutter!

My tally is at 70 clutter-busting hours for the time period of July 10, 2008 to this afternoon, January 5, 2009! If you've been following the monthly installments of this saga, you know that I'm aiming for 100 hours. In the past month, I accumulated 8-1/2 additional hours. I'm more than 2/3 of the way there!

With the flurry of the holidays behind us, I'd like to commit to at least 20 hours for my February report. If you think I'm being too easy or too hard on myself, let me know in a comment. It's New Year's Resolution time, so if decluttering is on your list, check in with us for support, accountability, and bragging rights! (Please let us in on your secret to success, too.)

Calendar of Events for Early 2009

Here are some other things I'm up to besides clearing clutter.... For more information, please contact me at scleaver@dejazzd.com or 610-385-3766.

*Anti-Hibernation Coaching Special ~~ To benefit, have your complimentary session by February 20, and (if you decide to come aboard) have your first month prepaid by February 27.

*"Cupid's Bow" Valentine Coaching Special for Couples ~~ Your prepaid session is available for the month of February for just $14 US, in honor of the special day, February 14. This is a unique, fun, and calorie-free Valentine treat!

*The "More Than a Tutor" Coaching Program for Kids" combines my experience in education and coaching to assist your child in strengthening the social, emotional, and intellectual skills that form the foundation of his or her happiness and success in school.

*"Susan, Unplugged... Your 'Slow-Tech' Source for Creative and Healthy Living Tips" is this blog's alter ego. It's complimentary in the US and arrives by snail-mail. (Remember snail-mail??) The January/February issue is now available.

~~~Additional Goodies for Local Folks...~~~

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*Reiki is 50% off for your intro session.

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*"Trade Up to a Healthier Habit" is a complimentary workshop presented by me and hosted by McCormick Chiropractic in Pottstown, PA, on February 17 from 6:30 pm to 7:00 pm.

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*Boyertown A.C. Wellness Council 4th Annual Health Fair will be held on March 21 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. I'll be exhibiting and offering a workshop at this family event.

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Be well,

Susan

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***All of Susan's creative4life posts are copyright of Susan Cleaver.***

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Tune Into Your Muse

Have you ever felt that you and your muse are on different wavelengths, resulting in a frustrating creative block? From a metaphysical perspective, that's exactly what happens.

The conditions in and around us during a creative breakthrough are those that foster a higher vibration that closely matches what we call the muse...that special blend of creativity and intuition that we've been wanting to tap into. So here are some ways to raise your vibration and that of your environment to reduce the mind static between you and your muse.

• Apply basic Feng Shui principles to your work area and to the area between your ears. Clear out physical, mental, and emotional clutter. If you can do this on your own, great! Go for it. If not, get a friend, coach, or personal organizer to help you with the physical clutter. For the mental clutter (long to-do lists, too much debt, etc.), set aside time to attend to each item, ditch it, or delegate it, as appropriate. If the issue or item looms large, you may need to put a system in place for step-by-step progress. For emotional clutter, try journaling or writing an imagined dialog between you and the issue. If you need help, do yourself a huge favor and find a good therapist to help you sort things out.
• Hug a tree! Communing with nature raises our vibration gently and pleasantly.
• Listen to energizing music. If your energy is really down, start with music that is slightly livelier, then move to progressively more energizing pieces.
• Clear out internal energy bottlenecks with Reiki and/or massage.
• Eat light meals consisting of fresh foods that haven't had the life force energy processed out of them. Bless the meal and express gratitude for it.

If you'd like to explore this idea of rising to meet the muse's frequency further, email me at scleaver@dejazzd.com to set up a complimentary trial coaching tele-session.

As you experiment with these ideas, please post your experiences in the comments section!

Thanks,

Susan

Let Your Creative Spirit Shine!

"Did you know that the best part of learning to see the spirit in all things is that it makes your world come alive and makes your heart and imagination kick into full-time creativity?" --Sonia Choquette

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Last weekend I had the privilege of attending one of Sonia Choquette's workshops. Wow! What a powerful woman! Dr. Choquette (www.soniachoquette.com) is a well-known intuitive, teacher, and author.

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Most of us in the audience were balancing notebooks on our laps with pens poised to take notes. But Sonia had a better idea. She asked us to put our notebooks away and give our intellects the day off. This workshop, she said, would be about reconnecting with our spirit! This reminded me of one of my favorite quotes (author unknown): "No matter what our attempts to inform, it is our ability to inspire that will turn the tides." So true!

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Sonia certainly fits the definition of a lightworker, as defined by fellow metaphysician Dr. Doreen Virture (www.angeltherapy.com): "A living human who feels called to help Earth and her inhabitants in a way that uses spiritual energy. For instance, a lightworker might feel called upon to engage in healing, teaching, or artistic work to help make the planet a better place." My guess is that many of you reading this are in that category, too!

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In the workshop, we used laughter, music, singing, dancing, and partner exercises that invited our spirits to shine. It was great fun and very inspiring to me in all areas of my life, and it was a quantum leap for my personal development!

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In my Reiki training, I learned that the earth's energy is shifting, causing discomfort for many of us as we adjust. Not only does reconnecting with our spirit make us more creative, but it also helps us to raise our own vibratory frequency so we can better function on our changing planet. And here's a bonus: Doing this for yourself helps others to do the same!

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If you would like some coaching around this topic, email me at scleaver@dejazzd.com for a complimentary trial coaching tele-session.

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Plato said, "If the head and body are to be well, you must begin by curing the soul." Sonia and many other metaphysicians believe that our physical and emotional illnesses are often (if not always) a result of cutting ourselves off from our spirit, and therefore from our creativity.

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Doreen Virtue intuited the following quote from Diana of Ephesus, a Roman moon goddess: "The moon isn't afraid to shine, nor does it fear attention, ridicule, or rejection. These lower fears sink Earthlings into despair and depression because the soul knows that it's capable of so much more! The soul doesn't like to be harnessed or restrained--oh, no! Unleash yourself completely..." So let you spirit out to play!

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Shine on,

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Susan

Multi-Tasker's Delight!

Greetings!

Are you a multi-tasker? Here's a buffet of practices and healing modalities that double as jump-starts for your creativity and intuition!

Hydrotherapy
Let's start with a very easy and accessible one that you do already every time you take a shower! Your mind wanders and leaves space for the ideas to come through. A bath is great, too, and a whirlpool is even better! What a great invitation for your right brain to kick into gear!

Journaling
Journaling expert Kathleen Adams calls her journal her "79-cent therapist," because it's always ready to listen without judgement. Julia Cameron, best-selling author of The Artist's Way, has an exercise in that book called "Blasting Through Blocks" that I use a lot in my journaling.

The guided journal I've written, The Whispering Heart, contains fifty quotes and accompanying questions to get your thoughts moving. It's available through me for $10 US. Please email me for more information at scleaver@dejazzd.com. Tax and shipping will depend on where you live.
Or you can ask for a free 5-page sample!

Meditation
Meditation is also great for getting out of your own way to let the ideas and intuitions come through. Meditating with a group is even more powerful. If you have trouble with sitting meditation, try walking meditation. The rhythm of the movement is a plus.

Reiki
Intuitive pops are common during Reiki treatments for both the giver and the receiver. Reiki practitioners generally see this get stronger over time in themselves. Level One practitioners can give Reiki to others and to themselves.

If you'd like to know more about Reiki, you can send me your questions anytime at scleaver@dejazzd.com. I've been at the Master-Teacher Level of Reiki for about a year, and I've noticed some interesting ways that is has affected my outlook (and therefore my output.)

Massage
Again, this is a way to open the door and let the "still, small voice" be heard. I particularly love Shiatsu massage, which works by stimulating the accupressure points along the body's meridians.

However, as long as the method you choose is gentle enough to be relaxing, I believe it can double as a welcome mat for creative ideas and intuition.

Dream Study
You can do this on your own, or better yet, with a therapist who is experienced in working with dreams. Dreams are loaded with creative and intuitive messages! A good therapist will know what questions to ask to help you make connections between your waking life and your dream life. Keep a notebook and pen by your bed so the dreams don't slip away. The symbols and metaphors will amaze you!

Labyrinth Walks
This ancient form of meditation takes you on a meandering path to the center of the Labyrinth, where you can sit and meditate for a while and then meander back out. It produces a similar quieting of the mind as I have discussed above, and again, it invites your creativity and intuition to come out of hiding.

There are indoor Labyrinths, outdoor Labyrinths, and even finger Labyrinths that I've seen carried in catalogs. Give it a try!

Life Coaching
Coaches are trained to ask expansive questions, to be thoughtful listeners, and to be effective brainstorming partners. We also encourage you and hold you accountable during that bumpy stretch between your "ah-ha!" and your finished product.

Please contact me for a free trial phone session at scleaver@dejazzd.com!

Gestalt Therapy
This is an interesting and revealing ride, and your imagination is in the driver's seat! The therapist will guide you as you act out dialogues between one part of yourself and another or between you and another person, object, animal, dream figure or creative project! And because you are doing this without forethought, you get to the heart of the issue quickly. Your left brain doesn't have time to interfer or object!

Please post your comments about your experiences with these practices!

Thanks,
Susan