THE CHALLENGE: DAY 4

Last night I met my friend's new little man for the first time -- he was 8 days old and utterly perfect.  As I sat in the living room drinking wine with the happy couple, her husband told me that the most amazing element of having the baby has been watching him grow and become more alert each and every day.  The little things like sneezing, squeezing a hand, or getting his first cold.  There is a new awareness and appreciation for every teeny tiny thing in life that we are so used to after existing for 20+, 30+, 40+ years.

Just a couple of days ago we touched on gratitude and today's challenge is going to revisit the topic, but in a slightly different light:  Gratitude for all of the little things in life that we take for granted!  Like being able to squeeze a hand, waking up every day being able to walk, and living in a country where freedom is celebrated.

As we go into the New Year's weekend, keep the little things in mind when talking about your bigger plans for the year ahead.

THE CHALLENGE:  DAY 4

Physical

Holiday weekends are often very busy -- dedicate time over the course of the next three days to get some rest.  For many of my potentially 5-10 readers this will be a challenge, but ask your significant other to take on the kids so that you can squeeze in a nap or for my Single-in-the-City friends, don't be afraid to turn plans down so that you can get to bed a little earlier one night.  Exercise is significantly more effective on maintaining a healthy body if that body is receiving the rest it deserves.  I repeat, get some sleep!

Spiritual

Find the personal time for reflection, even if it just ten minutes, and reflect on all of the little blessings in your life.  Focus the mind on living in the present and wrapping the gratitude around all of the things that can be identified in that moment...try not to let you head run away with the plans and potential blessing for the year ahead.  Live in the now.  

"When you are grateful fear disappears and abundance appears." 

-Anthony Robbins

"Ask me why I smile a lot....cuz it's worth it."

-Marcel the Shell

Personal

It is easy to get caught up in the business of a holiday weekend.  Do your best to set aside time in the next few days to keep up with The Challenge and your own personal balance.  Physical activity, rest, and a couple of minutes a day to bring your mind into an intentional place.  

Today's Tips:  Exercise is only one piece to maintaining a healthy body.  Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, keep up with the vitamins, and steering clear of electronics for 30 minutes prior to bed time will help for a more restful sleep.