Components Joy is not a temporal state of happiness but a persistent state attained by accepting every moment without imposing judgment.  Admittedly a tall order, but consciously practicing gratitude and maintaining a positive attitude reduces our impulse to judge.  Joy can be present, not because of, but during every circumstance.   Everyone reading this post on their electronic device over the...

A fulfilling life starts with peace, a sense of calmness permeating your being, overcoming circumstances and distractions.  Without peace, it is more difficult to experience joy or attain accomplishment.   Peace may be present, but it is not toes in warm sand listening to the crashing waves or soaking in the majestic scenery from the mountaintop.  Nor is peace absent when you violently react to...

The beginning of the year is the right time to explain and reaffirm the purpose of 52 Steps Forward – providing meaningful and useful messages leading to a fulfilling life with an abundance of peace, joy, and accomplishment.   The Case for It We start by examining the need to establish or pursue anything specific.  All of us have some idea about what we want and should do.  We are decent people...

Before you stream the Guy Lombardo orchestra playing a musical version of Robert Burns’ poem, we must have the obligatory year-end review starting with the purpose expressed in the inaugural post: …created to provide meaningful and useful messages leading one to a more fulfilling life because I want to be helpful and I enjoy writing them.   Expectations v. Reality. Intent.  Originally,...

Definition It is time to refine the goal definition referenced in the previous message.  A goal is a desired result beyond your current position requiring meaningful growth.  “Habits” are the activities undertaken to reach the goal.     Continuing practices that have allowed you to enjoy excellent wellness over the past five years is worthwhile but not a goal for this discussion.   Strengthening...