© Carole Kanchier, PhDT

The Fall or Autumn Equinox, September 22, is one of two days in the year where the sun is directly above the equator. This means that day and night are the same length.

The Autumn Equinox isn’t a daylong event but occurs the moment the sun crosses the celestial equator — that’s at 9:31 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time.

This equinox marks the end of summer, when the days are longer than the nights, and the beginning of fall, when the days become shorter, and nights longer.

The Fall Equinox officially ushers in the new season and its promise of crisp air, show-stopping leaf displays, and cool evenings just perfect for sitting around a fire pit and spinning stories.

Ways to Celebrate the Fall Equinox

Pick apples. The Fall Equinox is a time of harvest. In olden days, it marked the final harvest of the year before villagers hunkered down with what they could pickle and can. So, apple-picking or any other orchard endeavor nearby would be a great way to partake in a “harvest” and give thanks to Mother Earth’s bounty

Award winning, Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life is a goodm”https://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/1508408963″>https://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/1508408963.

Based on Carole Kanchier’s ongoing research with thousands of adults, Questers Dare to Change redefines careers and work, and shows how “Questers” prevail in turbulent times.

Please request a pdf review copy; Questers Dare to Change:

Carole would love to share experiences on the life career quest with you.

Carole

Carole Kanchier, PhD
Registered Psychologist, Educator, Newspaper/Digital Columnist

Author, Questers Dare to Change https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVF5TX1/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_MNttFbNBAZ4ZQ

Blog: http://www.questersdaretochange.com/blog

Ph: +1 (403) 695-9770:
Email: carole@daretochange.com; carole@questersdaretochange.com

5. Perform this three-part Mabon ritual The Fall Equinox is known as Mabon in the Wiccan Wheel of the Year and in other witchy and pagan circles. In my research of Mabon, I came across a lovely ritual that I can’t wait to perform on or around the Fall Equinox

Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.  Mahatma Gandhi

Self-discipline is the ability to make yourself do the things you know you ought to do, without someone making you do them.  It requires ability to control oneself and determine one’s actions, displaying self-control within and without to attain desired goals.

Self-discipline is the key trait needed to attain desired goals, and lead a healthy, happy life. Self-discipline begets sustainable, long term success in all aspects of life: diet, fitness, work, and relationships.

Research suggests people with high self control are happier and healthier than those without self control. They do not allow choices to be dictated by impulses or feelings.

Self-Discipline Tips

1. Wake up early and make your bed every morning. This sets the tone and the pattern of discipline for the rest of the day.

2. Know limitations. We all have limitations  — whether they’re snacking on potato chips or watching video games. Acknowledge shortcomings. You can minimize these.

3. Remove temptations. ”Out of sight out of mind.” This phrase offers powerful advice.  By removing big temptations from your environment you will improve self-discipline. If you want to eat healthy, don’t buy junk food.

4. Exercise. Do something physical. This gives momentum in the right direction.

5. Create a to-do list and complete tasks. Write your list the night before; then follow-up next day.

6. Don’t allow preconceived ideas get in the way of attaining desired goals. If speaking before a group is uncomfortable, find opportunities to practice speaking before friends

 7. Set clear goals and outline an execution plan. Have a clear vision of what you want to accomplish. Proper visualization by the exercise of concentration and willpower enables you to materialize thoughts, not only as dreams or visions in the mental realm but also as experiences in the material.

Break the goal down to small, doable steps. Set yourself a standard and adhere to it. Create a mantra to maintain focus.

8. Be gentle with yourself. Realize everyone experiences setbacks as they work toward goals. View setbacks as learning experiences as you work toward your goal.

9. Watch “self-talk.” Each time you catch yourself saying something that fuels lack of confidence, say “cancel,” and replace it with a more positive statement. Shift your vocabulary from being a victim to someone with power and strength.

10. Track progress. Write the action you want to accomplish daily (make your bed, read a chapter of a book, journal, exercise, call a friend, complete to-do list, etc.) and check the statement date when you’ve completed action.

Work hard. Persist.  If you want to transform your life in a positive way, make it happen. Put in the hours, the days, the weeks, and the months to accomplish desired goals. Get on the path to a better you, and stay on the path. The road requires discipline and action. Desired outcomes follow.

Expand horizons. Go beyond borders. Prepare for and welcome the unexpected. Innovate, adapt, explore, seize opportunities. Nothing is beyond reach!

Follow the examples of Questers in “Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life: http://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/150840896

 Author Bio: Carole Kanchier, PhD,is an internationally recognized newspaper/digital columnist, registered psychologist, coach, and speaker. Kanchier has taught at University of California, Berkeley and Santa Cruz, University of Alberta, other institutions of higher learning, and consults with organizations globally. Dr. Kanchier is known for her pioneering, interdisciplinary approach to human potential.

Contact: carole@daretochange.com; carole@questersdaretochange.com; www.questersdaretochange.com

MARCH 30, 2020

WHATS NEXT FOR YOU?

Are you stuck at home wondering what to do next?                                                                      

Use your time constructively to learn more about yourself and set perdoan;andprofessionalgoalsfrwhentings becmemore notmal

 goals fo what you want todowhen thingsmive backtonorml.

© Carole Kanchier, PhD

carole@questersdaretochange.com

 yoursel and consider plsnnin your ext mve athe birus clear and thinsg move back tonotml

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© Carole Kanchier, PhD

carole@questersdaretochange.com

OCT 7B, 2019

Mastering Self Discipline

“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”Mahatma Gand

The current pandemic is affecting many in numerous ways. We may have difficulty sleeping, concentrating on enjoyable activities, and have reduced or increased appetite.

We may feel sad, have depressed mood. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest and can interfere with daily functioning.

Experts report that depression is more common than coronary artery disease, cancer or AIDS. It causes greater day-to-day impairment in quality of life than diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis or ulcers.

Depression costs industrialized countries several billion each year in treatments, absenteeism, and lost productivity and wages. Depressive illnesses are becoming a leading cause of disease in developed countries.

Many factors contribute to depression including genetics, poor diet and sleep habits, and food sensitivity. Illnesses and their treatments, drug interactions, improper metabolism and social isolation are other causes.

A family history of depression suggests biological vulnerability. Psychological makeup plays a role. Pessimistic, dependent people with low confidence who are easily overwhelmed by stress, are prone to depression. A major loss (death of a loved one, job termination) and work stress are also linked to depression. 

Symptoms of Depression

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) lists the following criteria for major depression. At least five must be present every day during the same two-week period. Do any of these apply to you?

— Depressed mood most of the day.

— Diminished interest or pleasure in most activities.

— Reduced or increased appetite.

— Insomnia or excessive sleeping.

— Extreme restlessness or lethargy.

— Fatigue or loss of energy.

— Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, hopelessness or pessimism.

— Diminished ability to think, concentrate or make decisions.

— Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

— Irritability or excessive crying.

Although five of the foregoing suggest severe depression, take action if you checked any criterion.

Tips for managing depression

– Seek professional assistance. Getting help is not a sign of weakness. Mental and medical health specialists, who practice in community health centers, hospitals, company EAP programs and private offices, offer evaluation and treatment.

Get a thorough medical examination to rule out health causes. If you have severe or chronic depression caused by a chemical imbalance, medications will be prescribed to alter brain chemical action and improve mood, sleep, appetite, energy level and concentration.

Talking with a trained counselor or psychologist can be effective in treating less severe or non chronic depression. Therapy can be helpful alone or used in combination with medication.

Sometimes, it is helpful to discuss certain work problems with a supervisor or co-workers. Focus on improving the situations, not personalities, and end talks on a positive note.

–Recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors.  Negative thoughts are often unrealistic, and tend to have a generalized, exaggerated, spiraling quality.

You are what you think.You can choose to dwell on and enlarge mistakes or hurtful feelings which will contribute to depression. Or, you can stop negative thoughts and replace these with more positive, constructive ones.

If your supervisor suggests changing some part of a report, you can think, “I made another mistake. I’m useless . . .” Or, you can monitor negative thoughts, note whether you made similar mistakes before, and replace the irrational, negative belief with a more positive statement. “I haven’t made this mistake before. . .  Now I really know how to improve my reports . . .”

Focus on opportunities, constructive ways of dealing with challenges. Practice positive self-talk. Emotionally believe you can control situations. Listen to motivational quotes during your commute. 

Don’t take customer complaints personally.You’re usually the outlet for their anger and frustration with the company policies, services or products.

– Enhance confidence. Prepare a list of accomplishments and positive personality characteristics. Post this where you can read it daily. Build on accomplishments. Each day, enhance some previous performance.

Think and talk about things you want.Review fortunate experiences in a journal. Note the role belief and hard work played in achieving successes as well as strategies used.

Participate in activities that give pleasure and a sense of accomplishment. Plan enjoyable activities daily. Watch a movie, get a massage, take a class on a topic of interest, join a hiking group.

– Develop meaningful relationships. Associate with positive, supportive people who believe in your abilities. Help others as well as yourself by volunteering for a cause in which you believe.

Join a support group. You may be surprised to learn an evening with a group of depressed people can be enjoyable. Support groups provide a forum for mutual acceptance, understanding and self-discovery.

– Safeguard health. Keep a journal to chart eating and sleeping habits, and enjoyable and stressful activities. Identify factors that may be contributing to depression, and replace these with more positive ones.

Minimize stress by exercising, meditating, engaging in hobbies, and creating a relaxing morning routine. Don’t take work problems home.

– Set realistic, attainable goals. Break large tasks into small, achievable ones. Set priorities.

Postpone major life decisions, such as changing jobs or getting married. Wait until depression lifts.

Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life, by Dr. Carole Kanchier, offers numerous tips for strengthening healthy personal qualities and moving forward in your life career. https://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/1508408963

Author Bio: Carole Kanchier, PhD, is an internationally recognized newspaper/digital columnist, registered psychologist,  speaker, coach and author of award winning, Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life.  Kanchier has taught at University of California, Berkeley and Santa Cruz, University of Alberta, and other institutions of higher learning, and consulted with varied organizations. Dr. Kanchier is known for her pioneering, interdisciplinary approach to human potential.

Contact: carole@daretochange.com; carole@questersdaretochange.com; www.questersdaretochange.com

Questers Dare to Change Shows How

Based on Dr. Carole Kanchier’s ongoing research with thousands of adults for over 50 years, award winning, Questers Dare to Change redefines careers and work, and shows how “Questers” perfect their memory for names.

Do you remember people’s names during and after interviews? Do you recall the names of business associates at large gatherings?

Remembering names is an appreciated courtesy you can extend to everyone at work and elsewhere. You’ll gain respect, popularity, and networking skills. You’ll advance your career. Try the following:

1. Mental set. Before attending a meeting where you’llmeet new people, mentally prepare yourself to succeed. Research names and titles of individuals who will be in attendance.

Pause between each introduction. Make eye contact with each person you meet. If possible, repeat the name of each person.

2. Observe. Identify unusual or unique facial characteristics. Notice how this face differs from others. For example, note heavy eyebrows, cleft chin, or defined cheekbones.

Exaggerate this feature to embed it in your memory. Using your imagination, mentally reconstruct the person’s face the way cartoonists do to overstate noteworthy features.

3. Associate. Create an association between that distinguishing characteristic, the face, and the name in your mind. The association may be to link the person with someone you know with the same name, or associate an image with the person’s face or defining feature.

4. Clarify name. If you’re uncertain about a person’s name, politely ask for reiteration. Confirm the correct pronunciation. Consider asking the derivative of an unusual name. This confirms interest and offers repetition. Repeat the name to yourself or aloud. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Huang.”

5. Repeat and review. When introduced, ask the person to repeat his name. Use the name yourself as often as possible. After you’ve left that person’s company, review the name, and enter it in your business directory. Record the time, place, and date at which you’ve met each new person. Note distinctive information such as hobbies or career history.

During conversations, repeat names wherever possible. This involves people more intimately. Also repeat and spell to yourself names of new acquaintances. When leaving a new associate, reiterate the name.

6. Pace yourself. Don’t rush through introductions. Ensure you’ve made one personal comment to each person you’ve met. Intend to remember one more name than previously at each new meeting.

Memory aids may initially be time-consuming and feel clumsy. But research demonstrate they work. Rehearse the aids with everyone you meet. Enjoy the process.

Author, Dr. Carole Kanchier, career and personal growth expert, is a registered psychologist, coach, speaker and author of Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life: http://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/1508408963. Dr Kanchier is available for keynotes and consultations.

Contact: carole@daretochange.com;carole@uestersdaretochange.com    

Flow with Change

Many of us spend much of our lives trying to stop or resist change. It’s human nature to be comfortable with the way things are. However, our lives, our growth, and our career advancement are fueled by the dynamics of change.

The energy we spend fighting to keep the status quo is energy we could be using to understand the causes and nature of the changes occurring within and around us.

The ability to take planned risks is just what we need to manage our careers in today’s dynamic world. Without change, there is no growth, no vitality, no joy.

To have a satisfying life, we need to change again, and again, until we have created the best possible lives for ourselves – a life in which we feel comfortable being ourselves, without apology or pretense; a life in which we can be all we want to be!

Award-winning, Questers Dare to Change Your Job and Life, shows how to manage change and create a purposeful, fulfilling life: https://www.amazon.com/Questers-Dare-Change-Your-Life/dp/ 1508408963.

Check audible edition Review audible ed. https://www.audible.com/pd/Questers-Dare-to-Change-Your-Job-and-Life-Audiobook/B07VZNKGJF?asin=B07VZNKGJF&ipRedirectOverride=true&overrideBaseCountry=true&pf_rd_p=34883c04-32e5-4474-a65d-0ba68f4635d3&pf_rd_r=TN801GRP49AWQSSYMDYC1

Get a copy of the paperback edition; Questers Dare to Change:

Please review sample book chapters: http://www.questersdaretochange.com/book/excerpts/ and Carole’s blogs: http://www.questersdaretochange.com/blog

Many thanks for considering this invitation to help people change their lives for the better.

Continuing best wishes in your life career!

Carole Kanchier, PhD; carole@questersdaretochange.com

www.questersdaretochange.com