“You have power over your mind, NOT outside events.

Realize this, and you will find your strength.”

–Marcus Aurelius

Think about that. It’s advice as pertinent today as it was thousands of years ago when spoken by the Roman Emperor.

Funny how the power of our mind—and realization of its influence on our life fulfillment—was recognized way back then, and remains emphatically applicable to life’s fulfillment today.

Why? Because the power of the mind, self-awareness and understanding will forever prove to be the greatest influence in life as we know it.

Hey, we all seek fulfillment. We yearn for understanding and joy. We want a happy life, right?

Of course we do.

The good news? We have the ultimate power over our minds. Which means we have great power over our life pathways. How we feel and how we react to all exterior stimulus is up to us. But it isn’t that easy, right?

It takes recognizing we have a choice on how we feel, and consequently, how we react. On how we allow something to make us feel. Should another’s challenges/behaviors dilute our joy? Of course not, but easier said than done.

It takes creating boundaries while still being driven by compassion to prevent a contagious negative reaction. It takes protecting the self. It means consistently being driven by self-purpose, self-preservation and viewing life through a lens of love, for yourself and all others.

So stay steady on your course toward what you deem important. Be fulfilled by pushing your own limits for personal success, and begin each and every day with purpose. Doing so evokes a quiet, inner pride. And then? This inner pride energizes our intentions, moving them to action for increased productivity. This pattern cycles to yet again increase self-pride and fulfillment.

It’s a beautiful cycle—but some days will always be more productive than others. This is okay and just plain reality. Understand this, too, is embracing the power of the mind. It’ s being real. We cannot be superstars each day (otherwise, hello burnout!), so allow yourself some grace.

We can (and need) down, slow days sometimes. A little Netflix and chill on the couch now and then is important for the soul, too!

Recognize the power you have over your own inner joy. The power over your destiny, so to speak. Look for goodness. Expect more of it in your life. Then watch your pathway clear. Just be sure to see the blue skies, smell the cut grass, and notice the inevitable potholes along the way.

Accept. Appreciate. And train your thoughts to recognize life’s goodness.

Embrace the power of the mind. It is yours to hold, and it is your life to steer.