Tag Archive for future plans

Stop Letting The Past Dictate Your Future

October 7, 2024 John Uncategorized No comments

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Stop Letting The Past Dictate Your Future

On one level you know that clinging to the past is a bad option and that you need to progress in life. But have you taken a moment to reflect on this?

Why should you move on from the past? Let GenuLines show you how not moving on from your past can affect most every other aspect of your life.

What’s so bad about focusing on the past?

First, we look at a negative aspect: holding grudges. This can stunt your emotional and mental growth.

The more you focus on that, the less attention you have to give to what’s happening in the present.

Now flip the script to the positive side of things. Fixating on a positive event from your past steals attention from your future.

You also run the risk of comparing everything that happens from then on to that one “perfect” event.

This fixation can lead to negative outcomes in your future. The more you focus on the past, the less you witness the present.

You have a tendency to miss special occasions or important events.

You move through life in a more distracted way. Worst of all is that you stunt your development and growth.

How can focusing on the past dictate your future?

You could get distracted when you need to pay attention to the present. And you start making comparisons to another moment in time

Plus, you risk turning down new opportunities. You’re afraid they won’t live up to the past experience.

How do you stop focusing on the past?

The first step in putting an end to this behavior is to resolve to let it go. Yes, it’s easier said than done.

But you have to make a conscious decision to let go and move forward with your life.

Fixated on a positive past event

This is different than letting go of a grudge. Letting go in this sense is to stop comparing other events to this one.

It doesn’t mean that you have to forget the moment you’ve valued for so long. But it does mean that you continue to experience and enjoy each new moment.

Fixated on a negative past event

When you let go of a grudge you forgive the person and move on from the event. You don’t condone what happened.

But don’t let it live rent-free in your head or you’ll only hurt yourself.

JohnK 10-7-2024
chiforyourself.com

stick man hears about the futureOverheard: “Only you can control your future”

~Dr. Seuss
Article image by Photo by Thirdman: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-black-jacket-fixing-the-rear-view-mirror-6945902/

 

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The Every Day Choice Between Staying Stagnant or Progressing

November 27, 2023 John Uncategorized No comments

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Choice is something you’re faced with most every day. And sometimes a choice is the difference between a big gain or a setback.

Make it a positive result with the help of today’s GenuLines look at making choices.

The Every Day Choice Between Staying Stagnant or Progressing

Ever wonder what day-to-day life should look like when it comes to success?. When you’re formulating plans for success, is it more of a general idea of what your life is going to become?

Or is it a structured plan with daily or even annual goals?

A choice of doors

An important key toward success is realizing that every day, you can be making a progress toward becoming more successful.  But you need to be able and willing to take full advantage of that.

Rise.. and Shine?

When you get up in the morning, you have a full day ahead of you. Lots you can get done.

Any or all of it can move you to the next level. Or it can leave you where you are right now.

Each day is a new chance to do things you want to do to improve. That could mean tending to your relationships or getting something accomplished at work.

Either way, the day is full of opportunities for you to advance.

Better Days Ahead

Realize that every day there’s something you can do to improve. Even on days when you’re just going to relax and recharge, at least you’re doing that with the intention of regaining energy for a better performance later down the line.

On days that you’re not recharging, you need to boost any aspect of your life that needs it. Something that a lot of people struggle with is getting back on track after they’ve fallen off the productivity wagon.

They seem to feel as though it’s the end of the world, and they’re not going to be able to go any farther. This causes so much disruption in their success plans.

They stop all progress, assuming that they’re not able to recover.

This is far from the truth. Just as each day is a new chance to progress, it’s also an opportunity to get back on track.

Good Days Bad Days

You start every day with a clean slate, and from there you can shape the day any way you want.

If sometimes you don’t have a productive day it’s okay. Everyone has their bad days.

What you can’t do, though, is just sit there and mope about it. Wake up the next day committed and with a plan to get yourself back on track.

JohnK 11-27-2023
chiforyourself.com

stick man hears about choiceOverheard: “We must all make the choice between what is right and what is easy”

~Professor Dumbledore
 

 

 

disclaimer for choice

 

 

 

Create A Vision of Who You Want to Be

November 13, 2023 John Uncategorized No comments

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A vision for your life is like a roadmap. It takes you from point A to point B and beyond.

Today GenuLines gets behind the wheel to show you a few points along the way. .

Create A Vision of Who You Want to Be

If you’re unhappy where you are in life, it could be you are not creating the right vision about yourself.

viewfinder helps visionThink back to recent thoughts you had. Were they negative thoughts or feelings like you’ve hit a roadblock?

Shift your focus to a life that you want or a person that you want to become. If you want to have a life similar to an idol of yours, read about how that idol has become a success and use that as a guideline to help you accomplish something similar.

When you create a positive image within your mind, it will set up neural pathways to help you reach your goals. The more you reinforce this mental image the more pathways you’ll create.

 

If there is information available online that can help you with your vision, use it to your advantage.

Finishing Touches

Determine your vision and then the steps you believe will help you get there. Finally, continue to imagine that vision  on a daily basis.

Your brain will get so used to this vision it will become a subconscious process.

This is not to say you can’t alter your plan or your vision. There may be something you thought you wanted, but as you progress, you find this not to be the case.

There’s nothing wrong with that.

If this happens, create another vision and move on from there. Your brain will form pathways for this new vision.

If your vision is fine but the plan is not getting you where you need to be, don’t be afraid to make changes with it. Plans are only guidelines.

You can change as needed. This can happen when new information comes to light along the way, information which wasn’t available when you got started.

People Gonna Talk

Be prepared for criticism as you create this new vision for yourself. It’s yours and yours alone.

People may not understand what you’re trying to shoot for. Hold to your beliefs and prove them wrong.

Your critics are not the ones who have to live with the vision you make for yourself. You’ll find when you reach your goals those same critics will suddenly be on your side.

They’ll even claim to have been there for you all along.

It’s annoying, but that’s how people behave. It’s not worth the aggravation.

Just move on with your vision and let them think whatever they want.

JohnK 11-13-2023
chiforyourself.com

stick man hears about visionOverheard: “Be brave enough to live the life of your dreams according to your vision and  purpose instead of the expectations and opinions of others”

~ Roy T. Bennett
 

 

 

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10 Signs You’re On The Road To Success

November 28, 2022 John Uncategorized No comments

You’re serious about making your life a success. But is all that effort really paying off?

Today GenuLines looks at some indicators that help you answer that question. 

10 Signs You’re On The Road To Success

The meaning of success can be a bit tricky because it’s so subjective. Rarely do two people share the same exact experiences.
 
But there are certain milestones that are general enough to help give us a sense of direction.
 
success sign with purpose
 
 
These milestones help pick us up when times are hard, lift our morale. They serve as a reminder of how far we’ve gotten and how much we’ve accomplished.
 
They also act as a beacon to help guide us if ever we stray from our goals and objectives.
 
Here are 10 of the most common signs you’re on the road to success:

1. You have plans and you’re passionate about them

Most people think success is all about the goals. And while that’s true, the bigger part of success is having a framework.
 
Something that will help navigate you until you reach those goals. You don’t want to let others’ definition of success influence your vision.

2. You learn from your mistakes

Acknowledging your shortcomings can be tough. But looking at things from a wider angle will give you mental clarity.
 
You’ll be able to try things in a different way next time around. Plus, being able to adapt means you’ll find more creative ways and insights to achieve your goals.
 
And learning from others’ mistakes make gives you valuable knowledge from their experiences.

3. You strive for more

Having constant goals that you’re trying to reach is a sign that you’re motivated and excited about life. Seeing the future before it plays out is an important trait of successful people.
 
They know what they want and make plans to get it. And they treat obstacles as learning experiences.

4. You welcome feedback

Criticism can be harsh, especially as you get started. But you need to see it as helpful advice, instead of personalizing it. Use it as a guide to help improve yourself.

5. You spend your time wisely

Planning your schedule in an efficient manner helps you get as many things done as possible. You don’t often get sidetracked.
 
You’re focused and punctual. If you’re an early riser you get excited about what the day has in store for you.

6. You have initiative

You aren’t afraid to get your hands dirty, and work outside your comfort zone. You’re aware that no one will turn your dream into a reality except you.
 
So be willing to roll up your sleeves and jump right in. Always look for better and newer ways to achieve your goals.

7. You’re excited about learning new things

Be curious about everything. You’ll gain a little bit of knowledge that you didn’t have yesterday.

8. You work well with others

When you work well with others and play on each other’s strengths, you all come out winners. And best of all, you reach your goal faster and with better results.
 
One negative aspect of working with others is that it’s easy to assign blame. But confident people step up, take responsibility.
 
They work hard at finding an alternative solution. And they’re happy when others are successful

9. You know your weaknesses and strengths

Working to improve your weaknesses and polish your strengths is itself a sign of success. You exude confidence and a sense of inner stability.
 
And who wouldn’t want to work with someone like that?

10. You’re tenacious and not quick to give up

Even when things aren’t going your way, you don’t see giving up as an option. You have goals in mind, and plans to follow to reach those goals and nothing can stand in your way.
 
You stay positive in the face of adversity, and you don’t settle for less.
 
JohnK 11-28-2022
 
Ostick man hears about successverheard: “Success is dependent on effort”
                            ~Sophocles
 
 
 
 
 
disclaimer for success
 
 
 

How to Create a Time Management Plan

January 18, 2021 John Uncategorized No comments

Time waits for no one. How true that is! 

But GenuLines has some ideas that will take waiting out of the equation and put time on your side. 

(You can listen to this article by clicking here)

How to Create a Time Management Plan

Creating a time management plan keeps you from wasting time. Having a plan makes every hour count.
 
hourglass of time
 
You work at a good pace. And your time gets good distribution over the daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly tasks.
 
Creating a time management plan is an important key to success.
 

 

 

 

* Be Realistic With Your Plans –

Don’t go against your own internal clock when planning each day. If you know you struggle to get up in the morning, don’t schedule things in the early morning hours.
 
If you can manage the tasks you like first in the morning, try that.
 

* Set Time Limits –

This is especially important for both tasks you dislike and for the ones you like. There’s a risk of procrastination when you spend too much time on tasks you like.
 

* Say no to Distractions –

One of the biggest killers of any plan is distractions.
 
These include television, phone calls, social media, even children and spouses. You can head off most distractions by planning ahead.
 
Turn off the TV. Turn off the phone.
 
Use social media only at certain times- and use a timer. Explain to kids and spouses the importance of not bothering you while you’re working.  
 

* Differentiate Important from Non-Important Tasks

Understand what is important and what is not important. If you make it a habit to do the most important things first, you’re going to feel more accomplished and get more done.
 

* Calendars and Technology –

Use Google Calendar or another system synced to your phone. This is a great way to ensure that your calendar is always with you and that you don’t forget things.
 
You can even set reminders and alarms to help.
 

* Kick Urgency out of Your Life –

For instance, if you’re a service provider, stop taking last-minute work orders. Train your clients to give you plenty of time to work tasks into your schedule.
 
Set family time and playtime into your schedule too. That might avoid a last-minute meltdown from the little ones, too.
 

* Create and Use Lists –

It’s one thing to note on your calendar the words “work on project A”. But it’s quite another to list what you’ll do when you work on project A.
 
This is the most effective way to schedule your time so that you meet your goals. Be very specific with lists so you don’t waste time.
 

* Create a Daily Action Plan –

Have at least four or five things that you can do each day toward any goal that you have. Plus, having a variety of things to do each day can avoid boredom and procrastination.
 
Creating a time management plan is an essential element in creating success. Most successful people live and die by their calendars.
 
Take the time to ask one.
 
JohnK 1-18-2021
 
Stick figure hears about time managementOverheard: “Create a definite plan for carrying out your desire and begin at once, whether you are ready or not, to put this plan into action”
                                          ~ Napoleon Hill
 
 
 
 
 
 

Article photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

 
 
 
disclaimer for talking about timme

Powerful Goals Are Yours If They’re S.M.A.R.T.

May 20, 2020 John Uncategorized No comments
The lockdown gives you time to make plans and set goals. When it’s over you’ll want to resume your life with a full head of steam.
 
GenuLines offers a list of steps to make sure your goals are powerful- and genuine!
 
 
microphone for speaking about goals

 

 

 

 

Powerful Goals Are Yours If They’re S.M.A.R.T.

There are smart goals and then there are S.M.A.R.T. goals. The acronym S.M.A.R.T. can help you set better goals.
 
The letters stand for Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Reasonable, and Timely. Let.s take a look at each one.
 
Rubik's Cube toward goals

 

S

Stands for specific. Be precise.

Use language that spells out what the goal is. 

Why you want to reach it. And how you will get there.
 
Detail is important here. Take the time to do this part right.

M

Stands for measurable. For example, you want to add 100 dollars a week to your income. So you decide to write 5 articles a week for buyers that will pay you for them,

A 

“A” can stand for several things, like actionable, assignable, or achievable. Actionable goals give you daily activity to get you closer to them.
 
Goals should also be achievable or you will only get frustrated. Be accurate about the time it takes to reach a goal, and what actions it takes to get there.
 
Also, know who will be responsible for doing it.

R 

This can stand for realistic or relevant, and either or both are important and are true. If you want your goal to succeed, it should be something that is realistic or you’ll fail.
 
It should also be relevant to your life’s vision and match with your values.

T

Various authors refer to the “T” in the S.M.A.R.T. acronym as time-bound, timely or trackable. These are all important parts of the goal creating and setting process.
 
If you don’t set a time limit and you can’t track what’s happening, your goal will be hard to count as achieved.
 
There are plenty of words you can use to help you craft your goals. The important thing is that you need to have a process to help you set smart goals.
 
The ones you know you’ll follow through on and know when you’ve met them.
 
JohnK 5-18-2020
 
Stick figure hears about goalsOverheard: “A goal properly set is halfway reached”
                                       ~Zig Ziglar
 
 
 
 
 
 
disclaimer for goals

5 Steps to Find Your Passion

February 19, 2020 John Uncategorized No comments

Your passion in life seems so elusive. Yet, the ancients told us you carry it with you at all times. 

GenuLines breaks down the process of carving out a path toward your passion.

(listen to this article by clicking on the player below) 


 ________________

 

banner to help find one's passion

5 Steps to Find Your Passion

If you want to live your best life, then you need to find your passion and follow it. Sounds easy, no?
 
Actually, it isn’t that hard, so it’s surprising that more of us don’t do it. Rather, we seem to choose existing over living a life of happiness and success.
 
To make a positive change in your life consider the following five steps.

Step 1: Dream Big

Everyone has big dreams. What have you done with yours?
 
dog dreams of his passionDo you think about them, act on them or hide them away?
 
Help yourself find your passion and purpose, by dreaming big. List those big dreams you’ve had from childhood to today.
 
No matter how wild or funny, write them all down. Which of those dreams resonates most with you?
 
 
Which makes your heart sing and inspires you the most?
 
Now, if you’ve set your sights on being the first full-time resident of Mars, then double-check your list.
 
You may be coming from your ego rather than your Self.
 
Don’t expect your dream to be outrageous or huge. But expect that it will push you out of your comfort zone.
 
Be ready for the changes in your life that will help you achieve it. You’ve got to want it.
 
It needs to spark your inner passion and desire.

Step 2: Set Mile Markers (Goals)

I’ve always preferred the words “mile markers” to goals since goal has the sound of being finished.
 
Once you’ve fleshed out your ideal or dream you need to set your mile markers. They’ll lead you to your dream.
 
There will be other, smaller goals, that you will need to achieve along the way. You want to jot these down, too.

Step 3: Plan Your Way

Now that you know what you want and need to achieve, it’s time to plan what you need to do to get there. Think about several things.
 
The action you need to take. The resources you’ll need.
 
And anything or anyone that can provide help and support.

Step 4: Take Action

You know what you want, how you can achieve it and the steps to take. It’s time for action.
 
Remember you’re looking for a passionate life. One that fills you with excitement, joy, and success.
Step 5: Live Your Best Life
Once you’re taking action and seeing your direction you’ll find that your life starts to improve. Instead of dreading each day you’ll look forward to it with excitement and anticipation.
 
Your best life is the one that gives you achievement AND fulfillment. It’s the result of living your passion and your purpose.
 
You can get your desired result on your own. Or you can get the help of a coach or mentor.
 
Either way, your passion is waiting for you.
 
JohnK 2-18-2020
 
stick figure man looks for his passionOverheard: “When you are born, your work is placed in your heart.”
                                                        ~Khalil Gibran
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
disclaimer about passion

Can Vision Boards Help You Believe in Yourself?

July 23, 2019 John Uncategorized No comments
It’s called a vision board. Its purpose is to reinforce some message about yourself or your goals.
 
But, does it really work?
 
Today GenuLines looks at the question from both sides.
 
banner for vision boards
 

Can Vision Boards Help You Believe in Yourself?

man looking for vision boardsWhile “vision board” is not an official definition, it should serve to give you the concept in a nutshell. Are vision boards an effective tool towards helping your self-development?
 
First, we look at how they work. In general, you place information and pictures on your vision board.
 
 
 

Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay

 

These represent various aspects of your life. They can be personal, professional, or both.
 
You could have separate vision boards for personal and professional purposes as well.
 
Vision board pros and cons
One of the most significant benefits of a vision board is you can refer to it whenever you need inspiration. Or if an aspect of your life changes in some way.
 
You can update the board to reflect those changes.
 
Another pro (but possibly also a con) is that you can put whatever you want on a vision board. That’s great, but if it doesn’t help you with your goals, it may not be as beneficial to have it on the board.
 
In fact, it could hinder your progress since it takes up prime real estate on your board.
 
Remember that nothing is set in stone on your board. If you find something on it that isn’t working, take it down.
Vision boards are not for everyone
Some people find them to be a waste of time. They spend lots of time finding items to place on the boards and then never refer to them again.
 
It’s time that could be better spent elsewhere.
 
One use of vision boards is to place accomplishments on them. It’s easy to forget about events that happened earlier in our lives.
 
Keeping spots on the vision board dedicated to them will serve as reminders.
 
Don’t believe that you’ve forgotten about your accomplishments? Think back to what you accomplished in high school and college.
 
Or when you started your first job.
 
Having a handy reminder of your accomplishments boosts your self-belief. Each accomplishment will help you remember what you went through to get it.
 
This can help move you toward future accomplishments.
 
There are no right or wrong answers when creating a vision board. It just needs to work for you.
 
If it doesn’t, you should figure out why and adjust as you see fit.
 
signature for vision board article
 
 
 
JohnK 7-23-2019
chiforyourself.com home
 
 
stick man sees vision boardsOverheard: “Cherish your visions and your dreams, as they are the children of your soul, the blueprints of your ultimate achievements”
                                         ~Napoleon Hill
 
 
 
 
 
 
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