Tag Archive for gratitude

Signs It’s Time to Change Your Mindset

April 24, 2023 John Uncategorized No comments

Your life can change when you change your mindset. But it’s not always easy to see how this is so. 

Today GenuLines opens your eyes to some of the indicators.

Signs It’s Time to Change Your Mindset

“The key to abundance is to stop needing more, and to start appreciating what you already have.” – Anonymous
 
Everyone is talking about changing your mindset to attract what you desire. How do you know when it’s time to change your mindset?
 
After all, you’ve been thinking the same way for as long as you can remember.
Or maybe you’ve had a rough patch and your attitude has gotten out of whack.

The Good and The Bad

pocket watch signals change
 
When you start having more bad days than good ones, then it’s time to change your mindset. These are some of the reasons you may want to change your mindset.
 
Our mindset is what produces the thoughts we have. It shapes our thinking, which controls our actions and how we process things.
 
 
 
 
If you have a negative attitude, then you start blaming and thinking the worst. Positive or healthy thoughts create a better environment.
 
For you and those around you.

Six Signs It’s Time to Change Your Mindset

1. You’re always focused on failure
You get angry and disappointed over every failure without celebrating your success. You see yourself as a failure.
 
This sends messages to your mind that you’ll fail at whatever you try to do. Instead: Keep a success diary.
 
Acknowledge every success every day, no matter how small.
2. You have a victim mentality
You’ve had bad experiences or others you love hurt you. It could be an event that traumatized you and you’re still holding onto those moments.
 
Instead: Forgive and let go of the past.

3. You have social media envy

You’re see glamorous lifestyles of people online, and it makes you feel worse about yourself. You devalue what you have.
 
You focus on what you don’t have or aren’t doing.
Instead: Think about what you do have and show gratitude for it.
 
There are billions of people on this planet and at least a billion would love to have your life.

4. You see work as a chore

You dread going to work, complain about doing the work, or think it’s a burden. Instead, see your job as a way of providing value to others and having an impact on you and others around you.
 
Being able to work gives you the opportunity to contribute to society.
 
5. You obsess about things you can’t control or change
You complain about what you can’t control. Things like the weather, government, traffic and other people.
 
Your mind fills with everything you don’t like, rather than what you can control, which is yourself. Identify ways to change and control your own actions and thoughts.
 
You’ll make your experiences more positive.
 
Stop complaining. Start taking action that will bring you a greater sense of accomplishment and plenty.
 
6. You lack gratitude for what you have
You focus on what is wrong with things or the world, or the inadequacies in yourself and others. Instead, acknowledge that no one is perfect, and everyone learns lessons as they go.
 
Focus on identifying the positive things you’re grateful for every day.
Know that the reason you rarely feel happy and content is because of a negative mindset.
 
Know that it’s time to change your mindset to feel better about yourself.
Then be ready to attract more of the good stuff into your life. 
 
JohnK 4-24-2023
 
stick man hears about changeOverheard: ‘Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.’
                                           ~Leo Tolstoy
 
 
 
 
Article image by hapekla

 

 

disclaimer to change your mindset

A Closed Mind Versus An Open Mind

December 19, 2022 John Uncategorized No comments

We’re told to keep an open mind, but it this really necessary? I mean, there are plenty of closed minded people in society, and they seem to do okay.

Here’s a GenuLines look at both sides of the question.

A Closed Mind Versus An Open Mind

There are two different mindsets that pretty much determine how you look at life. They’re at the root of belief systems, opinions, and thought processes..
 
sign symbolizes open mind
We’re talking about open-minded and close-minded approaches.
 
People under almost the same circumstances can have differing attitudes about a situation. One person can feel devastated and sorry for themselves.
 
The other can see the problem as a learning opportunity. And they may use it to improve themselves in some way.
 
Or, something that seems positive can leave a person ungrateful or unsatisfied.
 
 
Living life with an open mind is the better way of navigating through life’s ups and downs. This mindset put you in a better position to enjoy the good times and to cope with the bad.
 
Today we look at common examples of how keeping an open mind is the better choice.
 
Conflict
We experience conflict in the workplace and at home. It touches our relationships with friends and family alike.
 
During their interactions people bring differing opinions and perspectives to the table. Let’s say a group wants to reach an agreement.
 
The closed-minded individual tends to see things from their own viewpoint only.
 
This way of thinking ends in a stalemate. Not only does progress stop, but there’s damage to relationships.
 
But, the individual with an open mind can empathize with others in a way that moves everyone to a middle ground. Having an open mind is an important approach when working through disagreements.

Struggle Sessions

How often do we see people struggling with the same issues over and over? Yet they never seem to resolve them.
 
There are plenty of examples of this.
 
The person who gets into and out of relationships on a regular basis. The coworker who fails to progress in a company after years of grinding it out at the same position.
 
Or the person who falls off the wagon despite the same new year’s resolution made every year. Usually this failure pattern results from approaching these situations with a closed mind.
 
Closed minders find it tough to change their tactics to deal with the issue. They make the same mistakes over and over again, failing to learn from them.

Taking Responsibility

Maintaining an open mind helps you to own up to your mistakes. This helps you adapt to similar situations moving forward. An open mind powers your progress in any situation.
 
These are far from all the examples that show the superiority of an open-mind. But the message is loud and clear.
 
The neutrality of your circumstances is open to your interpretation. Having an open mind enables you to find the silver lining that the closed mind doesn’t see.
 
JohnK 12-19-2022
chiforyourself.com
 
Stick figure hears about open mindsOverheard: The world is full of people who have never, since childhood, met an open doorway with an open mind.
                                   ~E.B. White
 
 
 
 
Article image by Steven Cordes on Unsplash
 
 
 
 
 
 
disclaimer for open minds
 
 

5 Reasons To Be Grateful For Struggle

May 17, 2021 John Uncategorized No comments

Life’s struggles usually don’t move us to feeling grateful that we have them. But GenuLines iinvites you to re-examine this idea.

You may be surprised at the results!

5 Reasons To Be Grateful For Struggle

Have you ever asked yourself why you always want more? You want to make yourself better.
 
Get that promotion. Earn more money.
 
man needs to be grateful
 
Win the lottery, a new car, a bigger house, another pet, to travel more often. It’s natural to pine for new things and to aim your sights higher.
 
But…
But there’s a problem here. We often take our eye off the ball.
 
And instead of living in the present, we become obsessed with the future. We figure everything will be better there.
 
But you can’t make everything better there without first putting in the work here.
The struggles that we face now do serve a purpose.
 
It isn’t something we enjoy or look forward to, but we may be able to find reasons to be grateful for those struggles.
 
Here’s why:
 
1. It Could Be Worse
This might not sound like a reason to be grateful for struggle, but… do you have the food you need to survive and a roof over your head? You have the basics down and while that isn’t everything, for right now it is.
 
Sometimes coming back to that thought is enough to remind you of your life achievements. You’re building the strength to handle what you’re facing now.
 
2. You Can See Through People
When you’re struggling, you learn who your real friends are. Friends can offer a great shoulder to lean on. But false friends can make their way into your life. They’re the first ones to run for the hills when things get tough.
 
3. You Rediscover Who You Are
You might wonder how this could be true, but it is. Think about the darkest days you’ve ever experienced. Now realize that you’re still here and you’re still standing. This speaks to your ability to be strong..
 
4. You Learn To Appreciate The Little Things
Sometimes we take these things for granted. Pause to savor your morning cup of coffee.
 
Carry this attitude with you through the day. Share your good energy with other people.
 
An act of kindness can change your day – and help others to change theirs.  
 
5. Struggle is Building You Up
It might feel like your struggles are trying to tear you down. But like working a muscle they’re building you back up.
 
It’s difficult to think of struggles as being a blessing. But the blessing comes from your response to those struggles.
 
What’s the most difficult type of struggle to cope with? One that you have no control over.
 
You learn to cope and when you know how to cope, you learn how to succeed.
 
 
 
JohnK 5-17-2021
 
stick man being gratefulOverheard: “If the only prayer you said was thank you, that would be enough.”
                             ~Meister Eckhart
 
 
 
 
 
disclaimer for being grateful

Thyme For Some Sage Advice About Parsley

December 4, 2018 John Uncategorized No comments

You sit down to dinner and you can’t wait to dig in to everything, EXCEPT the parsley. Today GenuLines looks at the humble parsley and why it’s a nutritional star!

 

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ARTICLE:

 
You may have seen that parsley on your plate and thought of it as a mere decoration. And while parsley is often used as a pretty garnish, it also has many health benefits.
 
 
parsley on cutting board
 
 
It turns out that parsley is very high in antioxidants. These chemicals help to prevent disease and improve your health in general.
 
What exactly is so special about parsley? It:
 
  • slows the aging process
  • contains powerful antioxidants luteolin, vitamin A, and vitamin C
  • can strengthen your immunity
  • helps your body repair connective tissue
  • strengthens bones and teeth
  • repairs cuts and scratches faster
  • protects you from hardened arteries and heart disease
  • discourages plaque buildup in your blood vessels
  • protects nerve cells to help prevent nervous system disorders
 
 
The natural oils in parsley are also known to fight cancer. Specifically, you can reduce your risk of colon cancer and prostate cancer.
 
You can even get some protection from the carcinogens in cigarette smoke. (though parsley consumption won’t make it a good idea to start or keep smoking)
 
Parsley can help inflammation-related diseases. These include arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune disease.
 
How much do you need to eat to get the benefit? It turns out that you only need about two (fresh) tablespoons each day.
 
This gives you the vitamins and antioxidants it provides in high levels.
 
Parsley is delicious in its own right. It makes a great compliment to many dishes either raw or cooked.
 
Raw parsley gives you you the most benefits. And don’t forget to throw a few sprigs into the juicer for a tasty and healthy drink! (you can mix the juice with something sweet like apple)
 
Oh, there’s also a cosmetic benefit to consuming parsley. The oils and texture of parsley help to clean your teeth and freshen your breath after a meal.
 
This is great when you don’t have time to brush your teeth between meals.
 
Next time, instead of leaving the parsley on the plate, go ahead and eat a bit of the garnish to get the health benefits.
 
You’ll come away with fresher breath and an army of nutrients to help keep your body healthier and younger.
 
JohnK 12-4-2018
 
 
 
 
 
man hears about parsleyOverheard: “He who takes medicine and neglects to diet wastes the skill of his doctors.”                          ~Chinese Proverb
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
disclaimer for parsley
 
 
 
 

Good Thanksgiving “Chi” from GenuLines to You!

November 22, 2018 John Uncategorized No comments

 

On this Thanksgiving Day, I am incredibly thankful that you are a part of the Chi For Yourself and GenuLines communities!

Rather than sending you wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving, I’m sending you all the best energies– in other words: good “chi.’

Use this time to rest and recharge with your family and friends. And keep in mind that what you think about is what you bring about!

Be well

 

JohnK 11-22-2018

chiforyourself.com home

 

graphic for thanksgiving

 

 

 

man on thanksgivingOverheard:  “If the only prayer you said was thank you, that would be enough.” 
                             ~Meister Eckhart

 

 

 

 

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Pausing to Give Thanks: To You and For You

November 24, 2016 John Uncategorized No comments

picture of john kobikIt’s been tough to write the past couple of days… I’m visiting family and friends on the east coast of the United States and I’ve been pretty busy…I’m sure you are too, especially if you live here in the U.S. and are enjoying Thanksgiving get togethers.

It’s been great seeing old friends, some I’ve known since I was 5 years old…
elementary school friends… and even a few from college.

You occupy a special place on my gratitude list. And this 1-minute video is given as a hello and thank you for being such an important part of what CHI FOR YOURSELF is all about. Be well!

JohnK 11-24-2016
chiforyourself.com home

Got Gratitude? Get It in Writing!

November 21, 2016 John Uncategorized No comments

picture of john kobikWell, here we are at the start of another Thanksgiving holiday week. I love this time of the year for a number of reasons. It doesn’t pressure us to spend wads of money. It doesn’t align itself with any particular religious belief. And it doesn’t wrap itself around militaristic thoughts and tendencies. The word Thanksgiving even contains it’s reason for existence- giving thanks.

This short article deals with documenting your gratitude. Putting it down in writing has lots of positive effects, as you’re about to see.
At the top of MY gratitude list is you, the GenuLines reader!

 

Five Reasons to Keep a Gratitude Journal

I expect you’ve often been told to be thankful for what you have when something awful happens. Research has shown that being thankful is a beneficial habit. Keeping a gratitude journal is an increasingly popular tool used by those seeking to improve themselves.

Five reasons to keep a gratitude journal are:

1. Changing Thought Patterns: studies have shown a strong mind-body connection. When we are feeling stressed, anxious or another negative emotion it can have a negative effect on our physical health. By considering those things, events or people you are thankful for you are creating positive thoughts and feelings which will help reduce stress levels. It will also remind you that whatever happens to you there is always something to feel thankful for.

Your commitment to your gratitude journal refocuses your mind on positive events, conversations, and relationships. This enables you to see more than just the negative ones that tend to fill your mind and dominate your thoughts when they happen.

Another way your thought patterns will change is that you will find that you start pushing boundaries and removing limiting beliefs. This will happen as you not only keep your gratitude journal but also review it. You will find that your mind opens to new possibilities and you gain in self-confidence and knowledge.

2. Improve Your Health: the fact that there is a mind-body connection means that by focusing on positive thoughts and feelings in your gratitude journal you are helping to improve your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that regular gratitude journaling can

*Relieve stress and anxiety
*Improve sleep
*Help you gain perspective

3. Create Optimism: some days it’s just too hard to see the forest for the trees. You’ll find yourself focusing on something that has upset you and that troublesome thought will nag at you constantly. Taking some time to sit quietly and think about something you are grateful for will help reduce the negative thoughts and feelings and replace them with positive ones.

4. Improved Sleep: regardless of whether you feel the need for eight hours sleep each night your body and mind do require a regular amount of sleep each night for optimal mental and physical health. Keeping a gratitude journal is fun, calming and a positive activity that promotes happy thoughts and feelings. By replacing worry and stress, you can sleep more peacefully and have happier dreams.

5. It’s Fun: keeping a gratitude journal should be a fun enjoyable experience; something you look forward to. It doesn’t matter whether you use a plain notebook or a really fancy one, you can jazz it up by using different colored pens or pencils or even decorating the pages.

If you want to create a positive change in yourself and your life, then keeping a gratitude journal may just be the tool you are looking for. It’s cheap, easy and very beneficial to your physical and mental health.

 

JohnK11-21-2016

chiforyourself.com home

 

Image for overheardOverheard:

“He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.”

~ Epictetus

 

 

Come and Get It: Another Great Meal Idea From Jo’s Kitchen!

September 6, 2016 John Uncategorized No comments

Food for Thought: “Healthy Eats” with Jo Eager on CHI FOR YOURSELF!

July 1, 2016 John Uncategorized No comments

HealthyEatsSaladPicpicture of john kobik

All the noise about nutrition these days! CHI FOR YOURSELF wants to cut through the clutter, so I’m happy to announce that Jo Eager will be joining us with a new segment called “Healthy Eats.”

 

Jo Eager

Jo Eager

 

Jo knows her way around the kitchen and her conscious lifestyle is reflected in her cookin’. Take a look:

 

 

Dividing line

Why are we stressed? Stress is the body’s normal reaction to daily events. There are several sources of stress and as many ways to react to it. Basically, stress is a human defense mechanism, but it is important to not let it take over.

On the next CHI FOR YOURSELF, you’ll hear clinical psychologist Arthur Ciaramicoli  offer therapeutic tools for fighting the anxiety, fear, and depression caused by stress. Arthur Ciaramicoli EdD, Ph.D. is the author of  The Stress Solution: Using Empathy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Reduce Anxiety and Develop Resilience.

picture of Arthur Ciaramicoli

Arthur Ciaramicoli

“De-stress” with us on the next CHI FOR YOURSELF, Thursday, July 7th at 1pm Pacific, 4pm Eastern time. You’ll see the screen at the usual place- chiforyourself.com.

JohnK 7-1-2016

chiforyourself.com home

 

Overheard:
listener animation“You cannot shake hands with a closed fist”

~ Indira Gandhi

 

“Quiet Revolution”: Today on CHI FOR YOURSELF

June 9, 2016 John Uncategorized No comments

picture of john kobikWe’re getting set for today’s CHI FOR YOURSELF interview with William Martin, author of  The Activist’s Tao Te Ching: Ancient Advice for a Modern Revolution.  Be with us at 4pm Eastern, 1pm pacific time at www.chiforyourself.com!

 

JohnK 6-9-2016

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