Deeper Perception - What to Do With It?

The ancient mariners navigated their sea route at night by the stars. These tiny twinkling bits of knowledge high in the night time sky offer useful information. The same could be said for our spiritual journey. Likewise, navigation is important for finding a path for the soul. We need higher knowledge intuitively perceived. Something that provides deeper perception than the facts of science can provide.

This deeper perception might be an insight that comes during self-reflection. Or perhaps it is an intuition we become aware of during meditation. Alternatively, it could be an idea found in sacred writing.

It can be assumed that seeing what is good and true can help us steer a course through the complexities of life. Possibly enable us to find meaning and purpose in our troubles. Even offer encouragement and hope.

But is this certain? Is deeper perception of itself sufficient for transforming our lives?

Examples of deeper perception

I may pick up on the idea that there are two realms of reality - a realm of physical objects and a realm of consciousness or spirit, not limited by space or time. As a result, I may toy with the thought. Play around with it. Bring it into conversation. Moreover, I might even use it as a working hypothesis.

An intuition may come whilst meditating. For example, the sense of the oneness of all life; everything somehow connected; an essence of reality behind outward appearance. This insight may stay or depart.

Huge variety of spiritual knowledge and awareness

The world is teeming with tiny seeds of wisdom. We wake up to them again when we hear them clearly articulated.

Another deeper perception is self-knowledge. For example, knowing about one's own strengths and weaknesses, successes and failings, dreams and fears. One weakness might be winning arguments, gaining status and impressing people without being concerned about the consequences. Personal development means living with consideration and integrity.

In line with the notion of karma, it is said that sooner or later we get what we give - what goes round comes round.

Realising the importance of compassion for oneself and for other people is another example. This is related to the so-called Golden rule. Wilson Van Dusen (mystic and clinical psychologist) has pointed out that a form of this idea is found in various religions.

• Do to others as you would have them do to you (Christianity)
• What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow man (Judaism)
• No one is a believer until he desires for his brother that which he desires for himself (Islam)
• Do not do unto others what would cause you pain if done unto you (Hinduism)
• Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful (Buddhism)
• Regard your neighbours gain as your own gain and your neighbour's loss as your own loss (Taoism)

Our response to deeper perception

In the Bible Jesus told a story about a farmer scattering seeds. First of all some seeds fell on the path and the birds came and ate them up. A number fell on shallow soil and withered in the sun because they had no root. Some fell among thorns which choked the growing plants. Other seed fell on good soil where it produced a large crop.

Swedenborgian writer, Edward Mitchel, says our minds are like soil, which differ according to our willingness to nurture seeds of wisdom.

The path

Some people are like the hard ground of the path. They have an outward opposition to higher principles. As a result they have no interest in spiritual ideas that casually enter into thought. Consequently, the seed of truth does not sink in.

Shallow soil

Some of us may be like the shallow ground. We might become rapid converts to new ideas to us of writers in spirituality and religion. We may become quite emotional or argumentative in their favour. But a superficial interest, in discovering what is meaningful, is not deep enough to survive the trials of putting ideas - say about mindfulness, self-restraint or compassion - into practice. Also needed is a willingness to be more patient, less greedy and more concerned for others.

Thorns

Some of us have plenty of thorns in our makeup. Thorns have the advantage in being native to the soil. They are at home in it. And so, in our natural minds, worldliness and self-centeredness finds a hospitable home and thrives. Consequently, when we allow these pleasure-seeking and self-serving thoughts to rule our life, we become indifferent to the seeds of the spiritual life which can no longer grow.

Good soil

The story goes on to say some seed falls on good soil and produces a large crop. Within us an openness of heart enables us to connect with the light of what is deeply inspiring. Also, there is a willingness to put higher awareness of what is good and meaningful into practice.

Summary about deeper perception

There are many ways we can gain deeper perception. For instance, during counselling, self-reflection, meditation, contemplation, listening to ethical ideas, observing nature, reading sacred writing, hearing about religious teachings etc.

However, I believe deeper ideas and insights of themselves do not amount to enlightenment but they are a necessary precursor to it. Spiritual knowledge and awareness are merely the beginning of wisdom.

The process of enlightenment depends on how we personally respond to higher perception. Do we truly listen? Do we act on it? Or do we allow it to get drowned out by the concerns of self and materialism?

ezinearticles.com/?Deeper-Perception---What-to-Do-With-It?&id=10077088

3 Keys to Learning Positive Intrapersonal Communications (By Latonia Price)

I know the idea of 'talking to yourself' seems ridiculous. However, in today's time, it's absolutely necessary to have great intrapersonal communication skills. These skills aren't necessarily about being conceited or selfish. It's more about being able to face reality with a more calm and level mindset. Here are 3 keys that I believe helps to improve intrapersonal communication skills:

1. Don't be ashamed to talk to yourself. I am not ashamed to admit I talk to myself. I ask myself serious and/or simple questions every day that centers on my attitude, love for myself, love for God, love for my husband, love for other people, and so much more. Most times, I don't answer certain questions right away because I want to wait to see if the answer will come from God. But because I asked myself a question and God knows what I asked, He'll answer. That's why I have no shame because most answers come from God. I may give an answer to some of the simple questions but for more of those serious questions, it's a few days or weeks because I want to make sure God answers and not myself. If I answer, I may not end up with the best solution. If I give room for God to answer, I am more likely to follow the right solution.

2. Have daily, consistent reflection time. Since the start of 2018, I've been doing tons of self-reflection. I've been telling people how I spend so much time in the mirror nowadays. Not sounding conceited but being transparent and sharing the fact that I need help. I need God, I need my husband, I need my family, I need trustworthy friends, etc. I'm not perfect. I love to learn and I have a lot of knowledge. However, I still need God to supply all my needs according to His riches in glory. (Phil. 4:19) I still need protection, love, support, healthy food, decent clothes, etc. I can't survive without God and what He supplies.

3. Break limiting beliefs through thanksgiving. Each person has an idea of who they are. Most are quick to recognize their weaknesses but so many are slow to recognize their strengths. It's easy to recognize a strength with a well-known public figure because that's all the media will show. But nowadays, the truth is coming forth and recognizing that even the they have flaws. We have to break these limiting beliefs by being so thankful for what we do have! Don't take what you have for granted. Don't doubt yourself by comparing yourself to others. It's not worth comparing or competing. Be grateful for how God made you.

Love yourself enough to talk to yourself. Improve your intrapersonal communication skills. You may find it so easy to encourage others but take more time to encourage yourself. Believe me, you'll reap the benefits over and over again!

http://ezinearticles.com/?3-Keys-to-Learning-Positive-Intrapersonal-Communications&id=9987574

How to Become a Values-Based Leader

Business leader and educator Harry Kraemer’s four principles. 

Values-based leadership is the solution for today’s leaders, says Harry Kraemer, the former CEO of Baxter International and professor of management and strategy at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. He recently spoke on leadership from his book From Values to Action: The Four Principles of Values-Based Leadership at the Northwestern Alumni Association’s Leadership Symposium.

Kraemer highlights the values-based foundation with his four principles:

1. Self-Reflection: “Values-based leaders are people who take time to think, to ask questions,” says Kraemer.

Questions values-based leaders should be asking themselves include: What are my values? What do I stand for? What matters? What examples do I want to set? What is my purpose?

“It is turning these value-based questions into action.”

Kraemer points out that this is not self-absorption. “Without self-reflection, how is it possible for one to know himself or herself? And if I don’t know myself, how can I lead myself? And if I cannot lead myself, how can I lead others?”

Kraemer suggests taking a 15-minute daily personal inventory, something he does each day. Ask yourself these questions:

-What did I say I was going to do today?

-What am I proud of?

-How did I treat people?

-How did I lead people?

-How did I follow people?

-If I could live today again, what would I do differently?

2. Balance: Kraemer says values-based leaders should have a balanced perspective in the hope of achieving a global perspective. They should understand all sides of the story, seeking to understand before being understood. This will translate best if you understand yourself (self-reflection) and then the members of your team.

The more you relate to each of them, the better leader you are going to be, he says. Genuine interest and respect for team members is essential.

3. True Self-Confidence: This is not arrogance, or a false ego boost, says Kraemer. Instead, it is a definitive turning point in one’s self-growth.

“When, as a person, you have reached a point where you can confidently say, ‘I don’t know,’ and ‘I am wrong,’ you have true self-confidence. Leadership is not about control; it is the ability to influence people,” he says.

4. Genuine Humility: This stems from one’s roots and origins. Kraemer poses the question, “How did you get where you are today?”

He says one of the most common responses he gets is: “Hard work and having a specific skill set.”

While he agrees those are important factors, Kraemer divulges his personal formula. “For me, it is a combination of these four things: luck, timing, ‘the team’ and my spiritual ‘somebody else involved in the play.’”

Kraemer says the foundation of genuine humility is through others, the people and relationships from early in life and career.

He also emphasizes that leadership does not require a specific title. “You can lead long before you have anyone reporting to you,” he says. “Most people cannot relate to someone who thinks they are God-like. A values-based leader is not trying to be right; he or she is trying to do the right thing.”

There is power in leadership roles to inspire others. “In leadership, you are blessed to have enormous impact on people.”

http://www.success.com/article/how-to-become-a-values-based-leader

Lessons Introverts Need to Learn to Become Leaders

Some of the most successful people in the world are introverts. Here's how they became leaders!

A leader is best when people barely know he exists. … Of a good leader, who talks little, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: We did it ourselves. --Lao Tzu

While it might not seems so from the outset, most introverts are in an ideal position to become leaders, because of the nature of their personality. Introversion and extroversion are considered two opposing points on a scale, but in reality, everyone has certain elements of each trait.

The main difference between the two types of personalities is that introverts tend to keep to themselves, reflecting more on their own psychic conditions, while extroverts are more social, finding inspiration from the world outside themselves. Introverts make excellent leaders, not necessarily by being social, but by applying their keen thoughts, sense of reflection, and attention to detail in all their projects; as well as by forming deeper and more meaningful relationships with their cohorts (everybody knows: small talk is an introvert's anathema).

According to the Lao Tzu quote above, these qualities also contribute in the work of the best leaders. As such, we have a number of world-renowned leaders who have upended their industries just by relying on the natural advantages of being introverted, such as Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Richard Branson, and J.K. Rowling.

Lesson 1. Be vocal about accomplishments

Regardless of the quality of the work they do, introverts tend to get overlooked because they're not necessarily vocal about their accomplishments. After all, a programmer who quietly keeps to herself is not necessarily going to draw much attention, even if she produces amazing work. Introverts are famously averse to self-promotion, but are fundamentally successful at producing quality work.

This makes moving up the chain much harder. Introverts need to have a good sense of what they're good at, and be able to step up to defend their accomplishments to nab the positions they want.

Lesson 2. Foster deeper, more meaningful relationships with primary decision makers

One misconception of introverts is that they are shy, afraid of socializing, or antisocial, when in fact introverts generate more energy through self-reflection. It's not that they can't talk to people, it's that their energy levels dwindle during times of interaction.

What this means is that when introverts do form new connections, they tend to dive deeper than superficial small talk and foster more meaningful relationships with the people they talk to. This is their advantage--it allows them to relate in a memorable way to the people they talk to. And by meeting more important people in their companies and sharing their unique ideas, introverts can stand out.

Lesson 3. Apply the attention to detail and listening skills to contribute more thoughtful ideas into discussions

A common characteristic among introverts is a more refined attention to detail, and the ability to listen. As they spend so much time in their own heads, they can work out often overlooked aspects of certain projects, and follow their gut to important endpoints.

It's these qualities that make them valuable members of any team. They think and listen first, and speak second. By harnessing this innate ability in larger discussions that include different points of views, it'll be no time before the people around them start leaning in to hear more.

Lesson 4. Take time on your own to recharge, but challenge yourself socially every day

Most introverts feel at their best when they're on their own, so it's important for their well-being to have a certain amount of time in a day set aside to recharge, reflect, and bask in isolation. However, it's equally important that they take some time to challenge themselves socially and in a low-threat situations, like going out to lunch with colleagues and participating more than usual in meetings.

One rule that known introvert Marissa Mayer uses to help her get through uncomfortable social situations is by glancing at her watch, setting a time for herself, and telling herself, "You are not allowed to leave until this time. If you are still having a terrible time by this time, then you can leave." By forcing herself into that set time-frame, she is challenging herself to get over initial self-consciousness and opening herself up to the situation around her.

I’ve applied this in my own life. When I’m at a networking event, I always set a time that I can leave. For me this is typically around 30 to 45 minutes after I get there. I can force myself to network as much as possible because I know I don’t have to do it for that long, and this has helped me get over my introvertedness.

Lesson 5. Use social media, email, and public forums to your best advantage

Introverts might not be very active socially, but what they miss out on in lost interactions, they make up for in social media. Since introverts are known to communicate better with the written word, particularly behind a screen, it's no surprise that many are extremely savvy in social networking.

Well, now's a great time to be social network savvy! Having a big list of connections and the ability to write eloquent emails has never been more effective in convincing people of your skills and talents.

Being an introvert does not mean you cannot be a leader. It simply means you need to learn to play up your strengths.

http://www.inc.com/john-rampton/lessons-introverts-need-to-learn-to-become-leaders.html

10 Questions To Help You Tap Into Your Purpose

People often begin their search for career answers by asking philosophically-driven, introspective questions like, "What makes me come alive?", "What did I enjoy doing as a kid?" and "What is the legacy I want to leave behind?" These are wonderful, thought-provoking questions that are fun to think about, and they are generally a good place to start when thinking about where are true passions lie.

However, in my work as a career coach, I often see people relying too heavily on these questions. They see article after article promoting this kind of self-reflection and assume that they should be scouring their minds for deep in the recesses of their brains. As a result, many stall out and get frustrated when they can’t find the perfect answer.

For many people, their issue is actually that they're asking the wrong questions. That doesn't mean these kinds of broad questions aren't helpful; they can be a productive starting place. But once you’ve done a cursory pass through with these "passion questions," it’s time to move on to another, more action oriented and practical question set.

Here are ten question to ask to actually jump-start your connection to your passion and figure out what it is that actually moves you to feel motivated and alive.

1. What’s my hunch about what I should do next?

Give it a go!

2. What have I previously dismissed that is something I’d really like to do?

Find a small way to try it out.

3. Who in my life would be unconditionally supportive toward me as I try to achieve my goals?

Lean on these people for support and encouragement.

4. Who in my life has a strong opinion about what I should be doing?

Avoid sharing your tender dreams with the types of people who have a negative outlook or a risk avoidance attitude?. Aim to build a more supportive network around yourself and your goals.

5. What real world experience could I pursue to give me more insight into my path?

Real world experience always trumps thinking about things. Put yourself as close to the thing you’re thinking about as you can. Then watch how you interact with that experience. Are you on the right track? Do you need to revise course? Adjust as needed. 

6. Who could I talk to who is already doing what I want to be doing?

Or where could you go to find people to talk to who are interested in what you are interested in? Our own brains are limited, but you can learn a ton by talking to people. Set up a coffee date. Attend a relevant event. You’ll learn new perspectives that you never would have come to on your own.

7. What’s most important to me right now?

Is it finances, family, work/life balance, fulfillment, making a difference, time off, flexibility, being a part of a team, autonomy, challenge? What am I willing to sacrifice to achieve my priorities? Career choices involve compromises, so getting clear up front on what you most want is critical.

8. What will inspire me to take action?

Think stories, quotes, questions, or ways of looking at things. Can you sense a theme here? I’m a fan of action. Oftentimes a thought or inspirational story can give you just the boost you need to get moving.

9. Is there anything I need to let go of that is currently keeping me stuck?

Sometimes I talk to people who have been through a rough work experience. Others have attempted a dream that didn’t work out. If you’re feeling really stalled out, unconfident, or blocked, it’s a good idea to talk things through with someone who can help you to work through your situation and move on.

10. What’s the next small, real world step that I see in front of me?

How soon can I take that step? Take action.

Too many people spend too much time trying to find their passion through self-reflection alone. You can’t get the full scope of your ideal career direction in a vacuum. Action and environment are more important. You need to get out there. Answer these questions, follow through by taking action, and you will turbo-charge your career evolution.

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-18187/10-questions-to-help-you-tap-into-your-purpose.html

26 Qualities Of A Peaceful, Harmonious Life

         

All suffering is a result of imbalance — physically, mentally or spiritually.

In yoga philosophy, physical disease is attributed to imbalances in diet or environment. Mental suffering is caused by constant restlessness of the mind. And the greatest destabilizer of all, is a lack of spiritual perception.

The Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali refer to the constantly changing states we experience in our human nature as, the gunas. There are three gunas: Rajas, which represents activity, Tamas, which represents inertia, and Sattva, representing equilibrium.

We fluctuate between these states all day, every day, just as nature fluctuates between cycles and seasons. But as devastation occurs, resulting in imbalance, so does difficulty ensue in our lives when we swing too far from centre.

By cultivating Sattvic qualities and practices, we stay close to our personal point of balance and harmony and are able to reflect our light into the world with ease.

In a translation of the Bhagavad Gita, Paramahansa Yogananda refers to these qualities as "soul qualities," something any yogi should be aspiring toward. These are the qualities that align us, bringing our outer lives into congruency and helping us experience our inner divinity.

Here are the 26 Sattvic qualities named in the Bhagavad Gita, that can bring peace and harmony into your life:

1. Fearlessness

2. Purity of heart

3. Perseverance (in acquiring wisdom and in practicing yoga)

4. Charity

5. Subjugation of the senses

6. Performance of holy rites

7. Study of the scriptures

8. Self-discipline

9. Straightforwardness

10. Non-injury

11. Truthfulness

12. Non-slanderousness

13. Freedom from wrath

14. Renunciation

15. Peacefulness

16. Compassion for all creatures

17. Absence of greed

18. Gentleness

19. Modesty

20. Lack of restlessness

21. Radiance of character

22. Forgiveness

23. Patience

24. Cleanness

25. Freedom from hate

26. Absence of conceit

By practising self-reflection (aka self-study or Swadhyaya) we can notice from this list what may be out of balance in our lives today.

We can choose one quality to work on and contemplate how we might grow in this area. If we choose fearlessness, we can give ourselves a small courageous challenge. If compassion was the one we identified, we can refrain from judgement and imagine being in another's circumstance to build more compassion. If lack of restlessness is what we need to develop, we can begin a short five minute meditation practice today.

It is helpful to stay with one quality for a few weeks to help cultivate a habit, exploring all the ways in which it can be utilized and experienced at work, at home and within. If we were to practice one quality every two weeks for a year, we would see the many subtle ways our lives can become rebalanced. With dedication and attention to Sattvic qualities we will come to know our happy, harmonious Higher Self.

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-17146/26-qualities-of-a-peaceful-harmonious-life.html