Source: Dr. J Thomas Smith / Radio One Houston
What Makes You Tick? Part II
So, you want to be all you can be. Well, it’s not always that easy, even in the Army. Too often, we choose to see ourselves somewhat contented with our lives and situations just the way they are. But of course when you are up to your waist in alligators, it is hard to remember why you went to the swamp in the first place.”
Bills. Health. Family conflicts. Life has real issues that we must address daily whether we want to or not. As a result, we tend to forget the fact that life has deeper meaning. There is the gnawing of “something” within us urging us to seek something more meaningful from life. But life presents challenges. Life presents problems. We all have them. Some small. Some large.
Even with what we perceive as problems, we shouldn’t be bothered or hindered in trying to become more than we are right now. As children we had lofty aspirations. We daydreamed about being a doctor, a lawyer, a fireman, an astronaut or scientist. That child continues to live within us, waiting for the opportunity to be set free, to soar, to achieve even though it might be short-lived or as long as we could hold on to the dream. “They” say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Let them say. What do you say? Are you ready to do things differently? Are you willing to get out of your comfort zone? Are you willing to change your thinking, just a little? Your answers to the questions that follow will determine what makes you really tick. Questions to ask as you begin to improve yourself just a little more—or maybe, a lot.
6. Am I happy with my life today?
This may not be a fair question. So, why not make it an affirmation. “I am happy with my life today.” You love being a good and loving dad or mom to your children, so why not take it to the next level! Your children will love you forever. Do the same is your day-to-day life! Purposely live life, doing the things that make you happy.
7. Am I appealing to my mate, or potential mate?
Whether you decide to get into shape, change the way that you wear your hair, or change the way that you wear your clothes; as even change your attitude towards other people, always keep in mind that positive changes will always be a benefit to you.
8. How much more could I have?
In addressing this question, it is not a matter of having too much or too little of anything. Life provides all that you can accept. Rather, it is more a question of how badly you really need it. We would all probably like to have more money because it allows us to do and have some the things that we want and need. However, the real question is “How much are you willing to work to have more?”
9. What motivates you?
What motivates me? That answer is one you have to discover for yourself. There are many things that can make you happy, however, choosing one may be the most difficult challenge that you have. I sometimes liken life to a buffet. You can load up on everything at once and leave a lot on your plate that you didn’t like. Or, you can try things a little at a time, piece by piece. Once you know what you like, you can eliminate time-wasting activities from your life.
10. What Really Makes You Tick?
So? What really makes you tick? You can be, do or have just about anything that you want from life. But if you accept the idea that attaining something seems too difficult, you are giving up before you even begin the journey. Keep in mind that personal development and self-improvement is not just about the philosophical and physical changes you may make. Personal development and self-improvement is something that you really want to do for you, and you are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve it. Be great!
J Thomas Smith is host of “Sunday Morning Live” on “The Real Sound of Htown” KMJQ/Majic 102.1 (9-11 cst). He is an attorney, author, keynote speaker and mental health consultant. Your comments are welcome at jtsmith@radio-one.com or jtsmith@worldfamousradio.com. Follow on Twitter @drjtsmith102 on facebook.com/jthomas.smith.12 and instagram.com/drjtsmith102.
