For example, if we grow up in a loving, family environment, then we learn values that are essential to creation and establishment of a loving environment. If we grow up in a hostile environment, then we will learn values that are essential to maintaining a hostile environment. People always turn to that which is familiar, regardless of how wonderful or harsh, because familiarity provides security and acceptance.

--- Understanding Your System ---

In every case, you have to understand various information and aspects of your life that shaped your belief system. When your belief system no longer provides support for your direction and desires, then you will be aware of what has shaped your beliefs to limit you.

When you do reach outer wall of basic belief system, you can become stressed, depressed, lost, and unable to move down your path. In this case, you begin to lose hope and simply settle into a lifestyle that is "just there" and you cannot go beyond where your system allows you to go.

You must understand your system to change your system. This is accomplished by examining things that are important to you and determining things that have shaped your beliefs. Some of these things, you will find, are no longer important and are simply holding you back. Other things, of new importance, appear just outside of your reach and cause you stress because you cannot reach them---unless you change your system.

--- Changing Your System ---

It is important to realize that if you always do what you've always done then you'll always receive what you've always received. To move forward and build on your current foundation, it is important to continually reinvent yourself and make changes to your basic belief system.

Reinventing yourself and changing your belief system does not mean completely eliminating things that are important. Just as you would not quit your job without having something else available, you cannot expect to completely eliminate your current system and values and expect to succeed. It is a process of changing or eliminating things that no longer work, using things that are available to suit your direction, and determining how to acquire resources necessary to reach your ultimate destination. It is a process that moves at your own pace.

--- What's next? ---

Once you're able to analyze your current system and determine where it is that you ultimately want to be, you will be able to determine changes necessary to create a new and workable system for you. The next step is to implement your changes and become proactive in your life. You will then be on your way to a new and fulfilling life!

Good luck!

Waffle less (I love 'em), yourself!

17. Respond less formally, but with more speed, eg. a hand-written compliments slip rather than a typed letter.

18. Make time for yourself to relax; because this recharges batteries.

19. Delegate for success. Ask yourself question: Is this only something I can do? If not, to whom can work be appropriately assigned? Is this person prepared now, or does he/she need further instruction to complete task efficiently?

20. Provide clear and realistic expectations. Keep only paper you need on your desk (if you are lucky enough to have a desk, that is!). Clear out irrevelant files. A tidy mind is an effective mind, but tidy desks are really rarely creative. Thank goodness I have an excuse then!

21. Communicate clearly to your sub-ordinates and co-workers. Hard if you are at bottom of barrel, like me! Get messages across clearly first time.

22. Set aside time to mentally regroup, to think and to plan. Very important. Review progress regularly to see which plans are working and which ones aren't. Work with individual players and set aside time for individuals. Remember everyone is a unique individual with their own needs.

22. Have direction. Believe in yourself and what you are trying to accomplish. Review your skills periodically and pat yourself on back with your progress to date.

Finally (and most importantly),

23. Take care of yourself and BE HAPPY.