Standing Firmly Grounded

Standing Firmly Grounded

Groundedness is one of the most important components of a happy life. Being grounded does not mean that we can't be adventurous, bold, or seek new avenues to reach our goals. Rather, being grounded keeps our focus strong and steady. It means we have a guiding philosophy - a foundation of personal integrity that outside influences cannot disturb. A guiding philosophy can also help to keep us out of trouble.

I remember one morning when I was a small child. My mother took me along to the local market. Having a very explorative nature, I decided to climb to the top of a stack of wooden crates in a corner of the store, then realized I couldn't get back down without toppling the entire stack. The store owner walked over, smiled at me, and lifted me back to the floor.

Then he said to me, "My little friend, if you don't get yourself into trouble, you won't have any trouble to get out of!" What a simple, powerful philosophy for kids to learn!

Our philosophy also contains our values, spiritual faith, personal boundaries, and the causes we support. It reflects our core beliefs about who we are and how we conduct our lives. For example, when part of our philosophy does not quit, we will persevere in reaching our goals no matter how difficult things become.

The media bombards us with promises of quick success and glamorous lives. People naturally want happier, more successful lives. Many tools are indeed helpful toward that end. Simply having certain "things" is not the reason that we achieve happiness, peace, or success.

Promises based on possessions and fads do not address one of the root causes of dissatisfaction; that is, lack of groundedness. Groundedness adds consistency to our lives - a mental compass to guide our actions and decisions.

Without Longfellow's "firm and ample base", we fly from promise to promise. We do not stay with one idea - regardless how helpful - long enough to realize its benefit. We keep changing channels, not following one storyline to completion.

Our guiding philosophy, as Steve Bartkowski suggested in today's quote, defines what we stand for. It keeps us from tossing to and fro with every new whim and situation. Our guiding philosophy is the supporting foundation beneath an authentically happy life.

Ask yourself these five questions:

1. What are the major ideas, values, and causes that contribute to my philosophy of living?

2. What are the boundaries that shield me from influences that would throw me off course and disturb my peace of mind?

3. What is the faith that assures a solid foundation in my life?

4. How does my philosophy provide a sure footing along the path to my objectives?

5. How can I build a more ample base upon which to build my dreams for the future and realize peace, love, and happiness in the present?

After you've pondered your thoughts, write your answers in a journal. Return from time to time and add new insights that you receive.

Standing firmly grounded in our faith, values, and purpose, we can realize the consistency and authentic happiness that many spend a lifetime seeking. May these gifts be yours today and always!

by Steve Brunkhorst.