Vitality In Life

By Dick O'Brien M.A.S.c

It seems to be very common today to complain about lack of energy, poor sleep and reduced enthusiasm for life. So many people seem to be tapped out physically, mentally and spiritually.

I would take a guess that as much as 75% of Canadians are not fit for work as they begin their day. We have lost so many of the rituals and routines that prepared us for the day and helped us to get off on the right foot.

A substantial amount of people are defeated before they get to work because they have not taken the responsibility to be in the best shape possible to deal with the day. Many individuals are already reactive just from the drive into work each day.

In North America it is easy to see that we are dying from the way that we live.

Competition, hurried sickness, worry, stress and a pervasive sense of vulnerability are impacting the health and personal lives of many Canadians and their families. Too many individuals continue to ignore the wake up calls that indicate erosion in emotional health, physical well being and personal spirit.

The key here is to place the ownership for our health where it belongs - you.

We must become responsible for the attitudes and behaviours that define our days and our lives. Life is a struggle. It always has been and always will be. This is neither good nor bad. It just is! The key issue here is how you choose to respond to the struggles in your life.

Look at the way you start your day. Notice what you do to ensure your personal vitality for that day and become aware of the things that can set you up for failure.

You have a personal responsibility to yourself, your family, your employer and your future to cultivate the personal habits that will ensure the energy, attitude and overall vitality you will need to deal with your day.

Rituals and Routines

Key rituals for Personal Leadership

1. Rise early - Greet the day - don't linger.
2. Exercise your body - creates stamina, flexibility, resiliency and energy.
3. Stretch during the day.
4. Develop a negative free zone (News, criticisms, country music.) Stand guard all day.
5. Make some time for time outs and breaks.
6. Develop some quiet time every day.
7. Do some uplifting reading daily.
8. Cultivate morning inspiration.
9. Always take time for gratitude.
10. Be aware of your bodies fuel needs.

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