Breathe, Visualize, Smile

The stresses of the work week are accumulating.For the next 30 seconds, I want you to see yourself
You've got fires to put out and deadlines to meet."knocking this one out of the park". Feel the
Home life is a never-ending race to soccer gamessuccessful outcome. Hear the kudos from colleagues,
and music recitals. Take a quick break.friends, or family. Be aware of the benefits that will
Join me in a little exercise. It takes just two minutescome from this success. Enjoy your moment in the
and I guarantee it will bring peace to your day andlimelight.
smile to your face. You can do it right in your cubeHow are we doing? Are we smiling yet? Feeling more
or office.confident and relaxed?
I want you to think about the most beautiful placeLast one. I want you to think about the one person
you have ever been. It might be Hawaii, thein this world that you love the most. I want you to
Caribbean, The Grand Canyon. Anywhere is fine asexperience the feelings you feel when you get to
long as you make sure it is the most beautiful placespend an entire day uninterrupted with that person.
you've ever seen.Close your eyes, deep breath...you know the routine.
OK. Got it? Close your eyes and take a deep breath.Feel the feelings you feel when you are around this
For the next 30 seconds, I want to you toperson. Let those wonderful feelings fill your heart,
completely experience that place. Visualize the sites,stir in your gut, or well in your eyes. Let the warmth
hear the sounds, smell the smells...be there.you feel inside spread to the rest of your body.
Great! You probably feel a little better than you didRemember the good times you've spent together.
30 seconds ago. Let's continue.That time at the beach...the time you got caught in
Now I want you think about some upcoming eventthe rain...the time you painted the house...whatever
or activity that has you a little nervous. It can begood memories come up.
work-related or personal. OK. This time I want you toOpen your eyes. I'll bet you feel happier, more
see yourself performing that task in the mostrelaxed, and that a smile has come to your face.
successful way you can imagine. Put aside all yourNow, get on with your day and keep these feelings
concerns and focus on the absolute best outcome.with you no matter what you face.
Close your eyes again and take another deep breath.