I have thought about this a lot lately, the fact that we often judge others harshly and unfairly, but we often forget to take a look at things from a different perspective, by examining our inner thoughts. I have come to the realization, over the last few years, that often when we have a problem with someone, we are seeing characteristics of ourselves reflecting back from this person, that we dislike about ourselves.

The problem starts with the idea that we can be perfect, an always better version of who we are, and the endless longing for more, when in fact we should first refine what we have. The assets we possess such as skills, or talents which we often neglect. The truth is no matter how wonderful someone may seem, we all have our flaws, whether some of us admit it or not, often our egos are just too big. The inflated idea of how great we are often blinds us from the reality of what is obviously lacking. An important step in the right direction, I think, is to see that you are never going to be perfect, but to still give your best in whatever you do, and to build others up, sometimes with constructive criticism.

I challenge all of you reading this, to set the goal of rather thinking about what your real motivation is before pointing a finger at someone else or saying something that might not be entirely true. The motivation may come from jealousy, self-denial, tunnel vision or any other emotion or way of thinking that leads away from being open-minded. The world we live in is very complex, and the people we interact and share our lives with are all unique. I feel that’s part of what makes being alive so exciting, yes often we experience difficult, trying times but by first fixing what we can inside ourselves, we open the door for better connections with those around us. I end with this thought, which I feel really sums up how I often feel, treat others with the kindness and respect that you wish for yourself, build bridges not walls.

The lifestyles we live these days probably play a big part in why so many of us struggle with insomnia, and the negative effects it can have on our lives. I mean if you’ve only had half the amount of sleep you need or less on a regular basis, you will be in zombie mode. I feel that the fact we’re connected to so many devices and screens, and the radio waves etc. that they emit, is a major cause for sleep disruption.

I talk out of personal experience, for I’ve had insomnia for more than 10 years, and often for weeks at a time, often getting less than 4 hours of sleep or none. The feeling that you have after a long, sleepless night knowing that you have to function well at work is not a pleasant one. I know many people turn to sleeping pills, and often they do help, but often they tend to be addictive. I have found that if I exercise more, and eat healthier foods etc, it tends to help get back into a normal sleep pattern.

The biggest challenge we all face in this stressful world we live in is to be successful enough to afford a lifestyle we are comfortable with. The problem is often as we get more we want more and aspire to be more materialistic. The drive to succeed and be better than we were leads to extra hours at work, racing thoughts, and the constant need to compete, and also to the dreaded insomnia.

The best way I feel to solve this problem starts with not comparing yourself to others, be your own person, define your version of success and what fulfills you, and don’t base your hopes and dreams on things you can own. I feel that the most valuable lesson I’ve learnt is that people and relationships are more valuable than anything else. I leave you with this challenge today, one I often struggle with, take a day to switch off your PC, smart phone or TV, and take a walk or enjoy the company of good friends. I guarantee you’ll be keen to do it again and you will sleep soundly afterwards.

The pleasant scent of the wet earth outside makes me think of time passed, how everything in our life revolves around cycles and changes, and that there is always a time for renewal. The hardships we face today will strengthen us in ways we often can’t comprehend. The droughts in our lives are often followed by floods or abundance, and although difficult times are unpleasant, they are so necessary for building true character. I feel that everything we experience in our lives has a purpose and it is up to each of us to shape ourselves into the best version we can be.

I enjoy hiking, and being surrounded by the beauty of nature puts everything into perspective for me. The intricate detail is often missed if you don’t look closely. I observe the seasons and how a lack of rain can often lead to fire, death and destruction, but once the rain returns there is a total renewal of life, almost instantly. The best way to grow is to be constantly faced by challenges and to adapt and thrive once you overcome them. I leave you with this thought today, would you really want an easy life without any difficulty? I know I don’t, so as I see the raining falling outside today and catch the scent of petrichor, I embrace whatever changes lie ahead.

Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton