Living Your Best

Recently I have seen an increase of clients suffering deeply troubling, even crippling depression and anxiety. Most have no idea what the root cause of their sadness is or why they worry nonstop, but in every situation they try to compensate through the use of unhealthy coping mechanisms (alcohol, drugs, sex, isolation, and avoidance). One common area where client’s struggle is with their personal identity and this is experienced by those in a relationship as well as those who are alone.

"Hard times create strong men, strong men create good times, good times create weak men, and weak men create hard times". Michael Hopf

When I work with individuals and couples one of the first things we discuss is what they are looking for in life. Unfortunately, the most common response is, “I don’t really know.” When I offer them the MIRACLE QUESTION (if you woke tomorrow and all your dreams came true, what would your life be like), I get the same answer because they can’t even imagine what a better life might look like. A life without purpose can feel like your waiting for spring on a cold winter day.

I believe when we began looking at our phones and envying other people’s lives we soon realized we don’t have a life of our own or at least one that seems as others are with their lives. We don’t appreciate what we have because we only focus on what we don’t have. Envy leaves us feeling unfulfilled and dissatisfied. Even when we acquire some “stuff” it doesn’t make us feel better. Joy is not found in the things we can have, but is found within. True joy is found when you make a decision to BE something more, not to have more. When you live a life that brings you honor, self-respect, and purpose. It’s knowing you are being your best that brings you peace and contentment.