Why Can't Every Day Be Like Christmas?

This year I decided to start the season early. I broke out the Christmas music and movies on November 1st. I was determined to really enjoy the spirit of the season and spent my time in the car listening to Christmas music and my time in front of the television watching Christmas movies. I was amazed at how connected I felt to the spirt of Christmas. I went through each day with a smile on my face and felt very little of the normal pressures you would think a father of seven children would feel.

I am a fan of both aspects of the season. I love the sacred opportunity to celebrate Jesus' birth and I love the visions of the gifts Santa Claus will bring. To me, Jesus gave us all a great gift. It is wonderful for me to be the "real" Santa and to emulate His great gift to mankind by giving great gifts to "my kind". The commercialization of Christmas actually provides me an opportunity to be "Christ like" with my giving. 

I stand all amaze at the love Jesus offers me and I love to see the wonder in the faces of my small children as they consider the magic that Santa offers on Christmas morn. Because my focus is on the birth of a Savior the giving of gifts seem like part of the story. 

I Want A Magic Carpet

As Christmas approaches, I love to ask my children what they want for Christmas. Each year, we receive some marvelous requests. It is fun for Stacy and me to make it all happen. We love the time together in the stores looking for just the right thing.

This year, Leah, our youngest child (4), held fast to a fantastic request. Each time we asked her what she wanted, she resolutely replied "a magic carpet". My first inner response was – "I am sorry, you won't be getting one of those". The more she requested it, the more I realized that she really wanted it. I had to find a way to make it happen.

During one of our shopping excursions, we wandered into the rug section. There, in front of us was a magic carpet. It was a beautiful gold and silver rug. There is no other way to describe it than to say that it looked magical. We knew we had our rug.

The Spirit of Christmas is Here For All

Finding the rug was the easy part, making it fly would be another story. Several days before Christmas I began talking about imagination and how important it is in our lives. I wanted the children to think about creating the impossible in their own lives. I wanted them to wonder how imagination works. It was my hope that they would all make the connection that a magic carpet is powered by imagination. I hoped even Leah would get the message and be content to imagine flying on her beautiful rug. 

Christmas morning finally arrived and the first gift Leah opened was her magic carpet. She let out a scream letting us know that she had received her magic carpet and immediately began to lay it out on the floor. As she sat down on her rug, our other children spontaneously, without prompting from us, gathered around Leah, each taking a hold of the carpet. They lifted her up and began to fly her around the room. The magic of imagination filled the air and the smile on Leah's face is one that I will never forget.

We Lift Each Other Up

It was a wonderful display of love and I was reminded of the story in the New Testament of the paralyzed man. He wanted to see Jesus so He could heal him, but he was too sick and feeble to move through the line. The sick man's friends arrived and lifted him up. They tore the roof off of the house where Jesus was at, and lowered him down to be healed. Jesus, touched by the display of love from the man's friends said, "your sins are forgiven you." He gave him the greatest gift, but the people were appalled and wondered how it was that Jesus could forgive sins. Jesus, perceiving their concern looked at the man and said "arise, take up thy bed and walk", and the man walked. He wanted to show the people that it was just as easy to heal spiritual problems as it was to heal physical problems. He could do both and so He did.

Leah's magic carpet ride reminded me of this story because her siblings lifted her up and gave her the transportation she needed to receive a great gift. I have often wondered who would lower me down when I need it and now I know. 

How are you regarding the great gifts you receive?

The thoughts expressed in this column are allowing me the opportunity to share with you what I value most.

How connected are you what you value most? 

Are you willing to share it with others without requiring conversion?

Each of us live a life of value. Sometimes what we value is different than what others value. This does not mean that we should forget those values. Instead we should remember them and share them. I feel most connected with you when I can be who I am without worrying if you will still like me. I am a Christian man and I believe in Christ.

Merry Christmas!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

The Beginning

As I watched her walk out the door today, my memories of the first day of school flashed through my mind. I remembered the good and the bad came. I felt the excitement and anticipation to go back, along with the unwillingness to put an end to summer.

My memories of my school years quickly moved to other "starts" that I have experienced throughout my life. I realized that all of those "first day of school experiences" prepared me for the many other "first day" experiences I have faced in my life. 

The "firsts" of starting a new job, living in a new city, beginning life as a husband and then later as a father are all days that I remember and cherish. They are the experiences that brought my dreams to life. Each beginning brought some anxious moments and some remarkable moments. I am grateful for all of those new beginnings.

Leaning Forward

As I have aged, I have noticed that I must now manufacture beginnings. There are very few required "firsts" that are left for me to experience. If I want to do something new, I must make it happen.

I enjoy creating a "new me" each and every day, so I am always looking for new ways to stretch myself. Today was one of those days. I actually got behind a microphone and hosted my own radio program. At times, it was scary, but for the most part, I felt very natural. My producer told me that he did not believe it was my first time. I hope the audience thought so too. The opportunity to begin this new experience was something that I created. I asked the right questions, at the right time and the show was booked. I am happy to be taking things to a new level.

When was the last time you started something new?

What aspirations do you have that are yet to be fulfilled?

What will it take to make it happen?

It is easy to sit around as we age and reason that there are no mountains left to climb, or that there are no mountains left that we can climb. I believe we can always learn, and that we can always create new beginnings. I dare you to join me in this belief and set a new standard for yourself. I promise you won't regret it.

Live Today! Love Today!

Dr. Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Inventing Reality

This caused me to have a deep conversation with myself about reality. An influential person in my life taught me nearly 20 years ago that I can invent whatever reality I want to invent. He told me that when I argue my limitations they become mine and I am stuck with them.

This is quite an amazing thought. Can it really be true? Is the only thing that limits our opportunities our own fears, doubts and/or willingness to accept the status quo? Do we really have the power to accomplish anything we want? What do you believe?

Almost a month ago I started on several very powerful and difficult challenges. I dreamed that I could accomplish these goals within a 90 day period. Many around me think I am crazy. This does not change the fact that I am doing things that they thought would be impossible. I am tired, and challenged but I am building the physical and mental muscles I need to make it happen. I look forward to the time when the rest of me becomes accustomed to the physical and mental exertion that my mind so easily embraces. I am getting tired of waiting for the rest of me to catch up with who I am becoming.

Making It Happen

Since I began this process I have not used an alarm clock. I wake up every day at exactly 4:30 AM. I have not felt tired when I get up. I have not felt like I want to stay in bed, even when my body is still sore, but I have yet to finish a day when I felt like I could keep going. In fact, when I finish, I can barely crawl into bed.

Despite what I am accomplishing, doubt sometimes creeps into my mind. Today I saw the immensity of the task at hand. I thought to myself, "How can I possibly believe that I can stretch myself in these ways?" I was consumed for a moment with the response, "I can't." But for some reason I just keep going, even when I didn't feel like I could keep going. I found my self screaming, "THIS IS NOT MY LIMIT." "I AM DESTINED TO BECOME A BETTER ME."

A Powerful Purpose Statement

I often reflect on a song titled "Corner of the Sky" from the Broadway Musical Pippin. The version I have, is sung by the great Diana Ross. The chorus of that song says – "Rivers belong where they can ramble, Eagles belong where they can fly. I've got to be, where my spirit can run free. Gotta find my corner of the sky."

What a great purpose statement. I don't want to be mediocre or normal. I want to continually push my limits and discover just who I am really capable of becoming. It is not easy being a "Master of Make It Happen." Each experience raises the bar, which means that I must continually be something better each time out. That is a lot of pressure to operate under, but it is the only way that I believe that we can truly satisfy the demands of continuous improvement.

What limits are you running up against?

How will you break through them?

As I tear down the walls of previous realities, I discover that I built those walls. I truly am the one who decides my own limits. My reality begins and ends by my own definition. I haven't figured out how to levitate or walk through walls but I no longer believe that it is impossible. I know it sounds crazy, but today the asphalt felt like foam padding. Go figure! 

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Because the lines were so short, we barely had any time to recover between each ride. I am not sure how to measure the speeds or g-forces that we were experiencing, but after a while, my body started to tell me that I needed to sit down and rest. The first warning was a feeling of dizziness, but then I started feeling sick to my stomach. I rested for a while and began to feel better.

The Track

Each of these fun filled rides followed a very similar pattern. They started in a covered area, transported us up some sort of a hill, and then unleashed upon us a series of free falls, loops, corkscrews and tight corners. The main variation was the way we were transported through these adventures. We experienced these thrills sitting down, standing up and even laying down.

It truly was a thrilling experience, but after a while I began to feel a sense of sensory overload. Because there was no waiting time, all of the rides began to feel the same. The anticipatory feelings and nervous energy was gone. We just ran through the line, got on the ride, got off the ride and moved on to the next ride. 

The Same Old Same Old

My body eventually adjusted to being in motion, but I began to feel very tired. The thrill was gone and I was ready to go home. We arrived at the park intending to stay until it closed, but by 5:00 PM, we found ourselves looking for the exit. 

We had a great time, but the experience had become common and we found ourselves just going through the motions. This happened because we did not break up the excitement with other activities. 

Sometimes this happens in our work. The experience of going through the motions leads to burnout. We know that we need to break things up, but we forget to do it, because there are so many attractions that call our attention. I like to plan my day so that I have mini-breaks built around each intense experience. This makes it possible for me to really get into something and then recover from the stress caused by the forward progress.  

Being In the Moment

This is my secret to staying in the moment with energy. I know that it is not important to fill every moment with forward progress. There is enough time in the day to take breaks too, so I do. I actually take a lot of them. I tell myself that I am going to move forward and then rest for a space. I purposely plan it that way, and that is why I get a lot done every day. 

Let's face it, we all goof off more than we would admit. I have discovered that if I goof off on purpose, I get more out it. These moments of day dreaming, or whatever they may be, restore my creative potential and get me back on track. 

What do you do when you find yourself going through the motions?

How do you get yourself back on track?

How much purpose is built in to your down time? Do you make sure your activities restore you?

Our down time can either restore us, or further deplete us. If we just sit around and waste it, it won't add to our renewal. It is sad when the things that thrill us become routine, but we don't have to go through that. We have the power to make the moments matter and the routine, a thrill. We just have to make it so.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, imagine the power of a video.

Today I invite you to know me better by seeing me in action. This is The Authentic Me.

Enjoy!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

This question, caused me to wonder about the formula for being and several questions began to enter my mind. What does it mean to be? What is the role of doing in that formula? How are doing and being related? Is there any relation at all?

It didn't take me long to realize that it is possible to do, without being, but I do not believe that it is possible to become, or to be, without doing something. Are you with me on that?

Permission To Soar In Ascending Spirals

This is actually a conversation that I have had with myself many times and it represents the vision of my work. I believe that achievement, the result of our doing, by itself is worth very little. If we spend our life achieving and doing, we will never be filled. We will simply move from one quest to another without ever gaining any sense of satisfaction. That said, we can't just throw away any and all forms of doing in pursuit to be. In all reality, we must be anxiously engaged in many good causes.

Buddha taught this lesson beautifully. He began his journey to enlightenment by sitting under a Bodhi tree. He believed that if he denied himself all his privileges and desires and sat under that tree suffering all manners of affliction, he would soon suffer his way to an enlightened state of being. It didn't take him long to discover that that was not the way. He realized that the true path required both active (doing) and passive (being) activities.

The journey to being begins with a careful clarification of what it is that we value. Our values, must then influence our dreams and aspirations. Our dreams and aspirations, must then guide the things we do. Aligning all that we do, with what we wish to become puts us in a state of balance and we are then free to soar in ascending spirals. This is important, WE GIVE OURSELVES PERMISSION TO DO THAT!

Living The Commitments That Accelerate Growth

What we do, determines our ability to grow and to be. Paul, taught us this lesson in a letter he wrote to the early Christian community that was living in the Roman Province of Galatia. He warned them to be very careful about how they spent their time by saying, "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Hence, our version, you reap what you sow, was born.

If you really want to "BE" something, you must be willing to live the commitments that are associated with that quality or behavior. You can't smoke and be a "non-smoker". It takes effort to be, and that effort translates into doing. Do you see the natural connection?

Arya was asking about the relationship between doing and being, but I believe he was also asking about the place of rest and meditation. Is it necessary to be doing something all the time? The answer of course is yes, but you are the one responsible for choosing your activity. 

My perfect day includes a lot of time to meditate, pray, study, and ponder. I like to be alone in my thoughts. It is how I reinvent myself. It is how I recharge my batteries. When I give those activities up for the pursuit of others, I find myself out of balance. These are the things that I am willing to commit to, and they work for me. You may find your energy in totally different places doing totally different activities. The key is deciding what commitments we are willing to make and then sticking with them. 

This, is where the balanced feeling of being comes from. When our dreams are aligned with our commitments, we create harmony. Life begins to feel like, and appear as if, we are running on auto-pilot. Growth is accelerated, and we are ready to become.

Standing Whole and Ready To Lead With Purpose

But alignment is not enough. Your light, the essence of your being, will never reach its full potential until you learn to shine brightly. It is only when we learn to radiate the vision of who we are to the world, that we begin to lead with purpose.

Leadership – that is the purpose of becoming. The greatest work we will ever do is to lift another to a new level. It is the most fulfilling and satisfying experience. It is the essence of being. When we become our best, we see for the first time that there is room for everyone to be their best.

Arriving at this gateway to enlightenment strips us of all forms of toxic competition. We learn to cheer others on without any worry that they will somehow surpass us. We are inspired by their efforts. We feel a desire to be better for our own account, because we see that there is so much potential that is yet to be realized. We see so very clearly that we are all connected and that we are all one. 

Life moves fluidly. The doing that we do appears to happen without any effort. From the outside to the inside, we are filled with peace. We know who we are and we are being that person. The struggle to do, is no longer found within us. We simply live on purpose and we lead that way too.

Have you identified your aspirations? 

Are you willing to live the commitments that are necessary for their realization?

What are you doing with your light? Are you willing to shine brightly?

I don't have all the answers, but I know that I am anxiously engaged in becoming my best. I understand where balance comes from and what it takes to get it. I want you to create harmony in your own life and leadership responsibilities because I know it will bring you great joy. Please do me a favor today. Take a moment to write down what you value most in life. Then examine how you are spending your time. Then take a step, no matter how small toward balancing the ledger. You are now free to move about the cabin!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Before we knew it, two hours had passed and we were in the middle of some serious plans for the future. The creative energy we were feeling filled us up with so many new ideas. A new vision was born and we began to discuss how we will make it happen. The combination of strengths made this project seem so fulfilling for both of us.

If You Want To Reach Your Dreams You Must Have Support

This was not a new experience for either one of us. During our 22 years of marriage, we have dreamed many things together. To be honest, we haven't just dreamed them, we have actually brought them into reality.

I love how we work so well together. There is no spirit of competition between us. We simply see the future together and then engage in making it happen. We are careful to utilize the best, that each of us has to offer. This means that we often take turns leading. 

The support we give each other is the secret to our success. There is a vetting process that we use to make sure that we are both willing to do what it will take to pursue the goal, but once we have decided, we stand together and support each other. I am so thankful to live this way. It is what makes life so good for me. 

Setting The Stage

To make sure we are aligned, we often conduct a cost / benefit analysis. This helps us make sure that we are both willing to support the dream. This process has nothing to do with money, and everything to do with the way we will be spending our time.

We want to see the potential pitfalls and risks. Once we see them, we seek to discover the worst possible scenarios. We want to know what can go wrong and if we would be ok if that actually happened. An amazing thing happens when we look at the worst possible scenario, we no longer fear it and we are able to move forward with out worrying about what could possibly go wrong. Since we know what the worst looks like we are able to avoid it. Rarely, if ever, has the worst actually happened to us.

This perspective frees our entire energy to focus on creating the results we want and living the dream we envisioned. I promise you, this really works, and it works every time.

Who breathes life into your dreams?

Are you willing to include them in all the facets of planning, even the process of imagining the worst?

What can you do today to free yourself of all negative energy and move forward?

Our aspirations are more easily attained when we align them with those who will support our efforts. To do this, we must be willing to clearly define what we want. We can't expect people to support us blindly. Shine the light on it today. You will be surprised how much light you receive back.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

As we looked out the window towards Paris Mountain, a magnificent hawk soared into our view. We marveled at its beauty and its ability to the ride the invisible air currents. It barely moved and yet it continued to rise in a tight spiral. When it floated out of the mini-jetstream, it gently flapped its massive wings and repositioned itself so that it could continue to float effortlessly upward. This image captured our attention and all we could do was stare out the window in wondrous awe.

The View Below

On the ground, far below this incredible display, is the city cemetery. It was a strange feeling to look down upon the graves of the men and women of Greenville past. I thought a lot about their lives. Of course, I know nothing about them, but I know they lived with the same types of passions and purposes that you and I embrace. Their life is over, but their tombstones mark their existence.

When I looked down, I was reminded that I am only a temporary resident of this planet. My opportunity to stand in that window was only given to me for a moment. Someday, I will be interred and somewhat forgotten.

This thought is enough to discourage some people into believing that there is no purpose to this life. We live and we die without much notice. I am sure that many people walk by that cemetery every day without even noticing it is there. I am also sure that the remains of some of the greatest people in Greenville are firmly planted in that city cemetery. Where are they now? Have they lost all influence?

Descend, Or Ascend – You Decide

In that magical moment the stunning contrast of life and death stared me directly in the face. Far below were images of death and despair – yet soaring in my level view was an image of life and graceful power. Up above, soared the hope of an even greater power.

I pondered the freedom we have to choose were we want to look. We can see life or death from almost any vista. Both, will always be present. We can choose to engage in the downward spirals of life, or we can choose to soar in its ascending spirals. I choose to look upward. That view brings so much happiness and joy. It fills my life and makes me whole.

Where do you choose to look?

Can you see the beauty of your current circumstances?

Do you casually flap your wings when you need to re-enter the jet streams of life? or Do you allow yourself to get lost in the free fall of despair?

You are empowered to choose. Today, a new you will be born. You can be whoever you want to be. Your journey begins with a plan. You are responsible for filing that plan. Please give yourself permission to soar in life's ascending spirals. The view up here is breath taking. Wake up! Look up! Now fly!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

I woke up this morning feeling great, until I realized that I left my suit, the one that I plan on wearing tomorrow for my TEDx Greenville presentation, at my sister-in-law's house.

I immediately started calling around. I was hoping to find an early delivery that would get it here on time for tomorrow's 8:30 AM start, or a same day delivery service that could get it here today. Unfortunately, the next day delivery options will arrive too late, and the same day delivery options are very costly. 

There are now three viable options:

1. We can drive back to Wake Forest and pick up my suit.
2. We can go suit shopping – believe it or not, a new suit will cost less than the same day freight options. 
3. I can wear something else.

Life Is Full Of Options

None of these scenarios are particularly appealing to me. I planned on spending a peaceful and quiet day with Stacy. I don't feel like driving at a fevered pace or hunting for the perfect suit, nor do I feel like showing up in something less than a suit. But what else can I do.

Sometimes when we are stuck, we think the way out is to discover the answers, but that rarely, if ever produces the best solutions. If we want to be successful, we must learn to figure out the best questions, not the best answers. The questions guide us to the solutions that we need. They help us discover the things that we are unable to see. They push us to think to a new level.

Right now, my brain is moving at the speed of life. I am in the process of discovering what I have not thought of yet. It is a place where I love to be. The questions will lead me to success. 

Saving The World

The clock is ticking. I now have 24 hours to ask the right questions. There is no need to panic. If Jack Bauer can save the world in 24 hours or less, I can figure out how to manifest a suit.  

I learned a long time ago, that everything can be fixed. I am sure that I will figure this out. I have mad problem solving skills! Right now, it is time to think. I need to consider every option, even the ones that I have not thought of yet.

What do you do when you are pressed for an answer?

Do you use powerful questions to guide your efforts?

What strategies do you use to stay calm?

Success rarely comes to those who fall apart. Those who win in the game of life usually figure out a way to get what they need, even under the most challenging circumstances. Making it look easy is part of the package. I can't wait to figure this one out.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

There is a reason why some call me Dr. Dreamcoat. The fact is, I love to dream. I love it even more when one of my dreams come true. Speaking at a TED event is a dream come true. 

The Dreams of Youth

Most of us remember the dreams we had when we were children. It seems like dreams were much more vivid and much more frequent. At night, we dreamed about flying, going to school in our underwear, falling forever down an endless cliff, running faster than a cheetah, meeting famous people and growing super tall.

In the daytime, we dreamed about being a rock star, movie star, fire fighter, police officer, super hero and astronaut. We dreamed about who we were going to marry, how many kids we were going to have, what kind of house we would live in, what kind of car we would drive and where we would live. 

Our dreams were always big, we never dreamed small. We were certain that we had what it would take to be a professional athlete, a super model, or even the President of the United States. The most inspiring question we were ever asked was, "who do you want to be when you grow up?" As soon as we heard it, we began to dream.

High School Graduation

After we graduated from High School we were told, by nearly everyone we knew, that it was time to buckle down and get a job. The focus of our life became that of gaining suitable employment. We had to be willing to do whatever it took so we learned a new word – "sacrifice". We were told that for the time being we had to sacrifice our dreams so that we could invest in the career opportunities before us.

Everyone seemed to be saying that our dreams would have to wait. This became extremely evident by a new question that we were constantly asked – "What do you do?" We heard this question everywhere we went. No one asked us, "who do you want to be", they just asked, "what do you do?"

This question made us feel like we needed to be doing something and so many of us stopped dreaming and started doing. The most prevalent dream we had during this part of our life was that one day, after we got our career goals all settled, we would begin to dream again. Sadly, many discover that the sacrifice was not worth it.

Midlife Living

As people aged, we began to see many going through what is now known as a "midlife crisis". The realization that life was passing by and that the dreams of youth were sacrificed in the name of career, provoked this epidemic. Many began to realize that the trade off was not worth it. They felt lost in their achievements. They wanted something different and so they began to search.

I truly believe that it is the discovery of a new question that frees us from the potential, and even the grasp of the midlife crisis. The question – "who do you want to be when you grow whole?" I don't want to grow old, I want to grow whole. This question reignites the dreaming process and makes it possible for us to look into the future with hopeful hearts.

I am dreamer, are you?

What dreams are inspiring you right now?

Who do you want to be when you grow whole?

I love to ponder this question. It breathes life into my dreams. The biggest difference between the dreams of our youth and the dreams we have as adults is, that as adults, we have the power to turn them into reality. Don't waste it.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

We always begin with confidence. When we leave the car, we know we are going to make it to the top. The first few miles fly by and the excitement of being on the trail keeps us going. Progress always means that the trail becomes more difficult. Soon we are either lost in endless switchbacks or steep ascents. Either way, our bodies and minds begin to feel the significance of the challenge ahead.

Reaching For The Top

No matter how prepared we are, the final trail to the peak is always a shock to our system. It is usually less traveled and more difficult to discern than the lower level trails. Its steepness reeks of danger and we always move a little more cautiously. The visual stimulus conjures uncertain thoughts, and there is always a point where the trail ahead looks too difficult and we wonder if we can make it, or if it is worth the risk to continue.

It is interesting to note that this point of uncertainty is usually just a few hundred yards from the top. The goal is in site, yet we still feel like turning back. 

The Summits of Life

I find myself in similar place on several projects right now. The finish lines are in sight, but I am tired. There are even moments when I find myself wondering if I have what it takes to go the distance. I am thankful for my experiences of climbing mountain peaks because I am using them to help me stay on target.

My successes on the mountain trails help me to believe that I will be equally successful on the trails of life. I have a plan and I can see where I am going. This keeps fear and doubt from discouraging me. I have been to the top of other summits and I will make it to the top of these ones.  

Only The Beginning

Rarely do we ever summit the highest peak. From the top we can always see another distant mountain worth climbing. Our summits become the base camps of our future climbs. It is there that we can see our next pursuit. It is there that a new vision is born.

The moments at the top are generally very brief. We capture it with a picture, enjoy the view, and then head out in search of the next adventure. We know that our time on the trail, and the lessons we learn are much more valuable than the moments we spend at the top, but standing on the top helps us to appreciate the trail and make meaning out of it.

What truths have you discovered at the top of the peaks you have climbed?

Where do you stand today? Can you see your peak of choice?

Are you reaching for the next level?

Reach for it. Don't stop until you get there. It is closer than you think and you can be whoever you want to be. The view at the top will help you see more clearly the successes of the previous and future you. My promise is always the same – "You ain't seen nothin yet!"

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Since that time, I have been working on a couple of significant projects for my business. I am not interested in moving forward simply for the sake of moving forward. Especially if my movement creates hardships for my family. Still, I understand that only the venturous are able to gain during this economy, so I am willing to take some well thought out risks to increase my ability to deliver a quality experience for my current and future clients.

A Market Of Choice

About three years ago, I entered into a lease agreement in a beautiful new building very near our home. I was excited to create a new office space. It was our opportunity to build it to our liking and we did our best to take advantage of the mountain views. Rental rates were much higher than they are today, which translates now into a rental agreement that is about three times above market value. Fortunately, we only entered into a three year agreement.

Our term is nearly up and I recently began new negotiations with our landlord. It was my hope that we could lower the current rate and enter into a new three year lease. There are seven suites inside our building and four of them are empty. This reflects the occupancy rate in our town, and so I believed that this would be an easy project. I was surprised to discover that our landlord was only interested in raising our rent. This idea is simply not supported by what is going on in the commercial market in our town.

We had never entertained the thought of moving, but this position opened the door to our search for new space. There is plenty of inventory available, but we were finding it difficult to find something that fit our needs without investing more tenant improvement dollars. 

One Saturday morning, we were considering a few different opportunities. Along the way, we noticed that a landmark building in our community was for sale.  It is a structure that was built into the local rocks nearly 45 years ago. We were sure that it was out of our reach, but our curiosity got the best of us and we stopped to look around. As soon as we exited our vehicle, we knew that it would be the perfect place to take our business to the next level. It appears to have been specifically built for the Game of Life Table, which plays such a central role in the services we offer.

Dreaming Big

We decided to pursue this opportunity, and everything we needed to make it a reality began to fall in line. It was on the market for a price much higher than we could afford, we successfully negotiated a new price that is within our budget, and opened escrow last week. Our monthly payment will now be reduced to nearly half of what we are spending in our current rental agreement. We recognize that there are risks associated with this acquisition, but that is what makes it fun. We are excited to move forward. 

This historic building is the perfect retreat location. The views are stunning, the setup is perfect, and the fact that it is an old home, gives us the potential of renting it out for weekends to our clients who are looking to get away for some quality and solitary thinking time. 

Don't Just Sit There

There is a level of fear that I feel in moving forward, but I am not going to let that stop me. I know our economy could get even worse than it is right now, which would significantly effect my ability to find people who can afford my services. I willing to move forward, because now is a time of opportunity. I am certain that things will eventually turn around, but if I wait for that moment, it will be too late. In effect, waiting for the turn around would price us out of the market.

There are many similar opportunities before you right now. You must decide which ones you will seize. Your tolerance for risk must be evaluated, but you must not allow fear to prevent you from moving forward. Things will only get better if we make them better.

What great opportunities do you see before you?

How will going for them impact your professional and personal experiences?

What beliefs are preventing you from realizing the potential of this favorable economy?

Very soon, the market is going to turn. Those who are willing to take steps now, will be in position to reap the benefits of the future growth. Are you one of them?

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Learn More about the Game of Life Table

Make a Smilebox slideshow

A few of you followed-up with me to see how I was doing. I appreciated that and it kept me focused on this big project. 

U-wun-ge-lay-ma

That funky phase you just read is the title of my book. I missed my deadline by one month, but it is now finished and getting ready to go to the editor. The phrase comes from an African fable called the The Tale of The Name of The Tree. U-wun-ge-lay-ma is the name of the tree and when it is spoken the tree releases its life giving fruit.

The fable takes place during the time of famine. The name of the tree is difficult to pronounce and even harder to remember. No one is able to say it, so the characters, one by one, set off to visit it with a wise chief to learn the name of the tree. Each one faces a unique set of circumstances on their way back to the tree which causes them to forget the name. Finally, the tortoise is able to return and pronounce the name to release the fruit.

A Guide To Next Level Living

"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times; it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness; it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity; it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness; it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair; we had everything before us, we had nothing before us; we were all going directly to Heaven, we were all going the other way- in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only."

So begins Charles Dickens' book the Tale of Two Cities. It literally describes our day. Some right now are finding new feasts and others are suffering in old famines. Where do you find yourself?

Opportunity Of A Lifetime

I find myself seeing opportunity. I see that there are risks, but I am willing to take them. Playing safe, never inspires me. I know that living a full life requires the stomach to take risks. I cannot, no, I will not live in fear. I will not believe that it is a time to search for security or to hunker down. That is what is causing our economy to remain stagnant.

There is too much fear going around right now and prosperity is not a game for the faint of heart. Abundance only comes to those who spend their days passionately creating success. Stepping into uncertainty is the leading requirement. The openings that lead to greatness are created by taking that step. No one ever did it without taking a risk.

Of course this means that we will live through some very uncomfortable experiences, but only those who learn how to lean into the discomfort finally discover the secrets of abundance. Does anybody ever look back on life and say, "I wish I played it safe"? I don't think so. In fact, I think the risks we take, whether successful or unsuccessful, create our most memorable experiences. They are the moments that define and enlighten us. 

Safe Risk

Before taking that step, we must learn to count the cost. It is true, that no matter how prepared we are, some risks will just not pay off, and that is why we must consider the options before us. Risk is only made safe when we make wise choices. We must know what is at stake, and if we are able to stand losing it. If we cannot afford to lose the required investment, then we must never make it.

Some people decide that they can't lose anything, so they never take a risk. The never seek to push their own boundaries. I may not be able to make a million dollar investment right now, but perhaps I can make a $5,000.00 one. Risk means that we are stretching ourselves beyond our current limits. That means that we must be willing to take chances. 

Now Is The Time

Right now, I am in the middle of taking some major risks. I see the opportunities before me that will lead me to the next level. I am afraid. Simply put, thinking about what it will take for me to do what I must do, frightens me. I feel nervous and worried, but those feelings are calling me to greatness. They are the feelings that inspire me to move forward.

For the first time in a few years, I am asking myself one of my favorite questions; "what is the worst thing I could lose?" That is the question I ask before I move forward. I go over the worst case scenario and once I have a chance to stare it in the face, I am no longer afraid of it. Seeing the worst, makes me realize that it wouldn't be that bad, so I take the leap of faith required to create the opening I need.

What risks are before you?

What will happen if you take them? What will happen if you choose not to take them?

What is the worst thing you would lose if you took the chance before you? Would that really be that bad?

There is an opening. You may not be able to see it right now, but it is there. Trust yourself, and let your mind ponder your next move. The older I become, the more I believe that life is an illusion that we create. Our willingness to step forward, creates freedom, greatness and success. Our fear suppresses our very best. Don't just sit there saying it can't be done, create your opening.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548 

I am fascinated by a phenomena that I call “the last five pounds”. Anybody who has ever been on a weight loss campaign understands this without much explanation. In the beginning our efforts yield what look like immense progress, but there comes a point when we feel like we are at a complete standstill. The major gains we once enjoyed, are now, barely recognizable. Maintenance is a difficult proposition in and of itself, and when we get close to realizing a soul-stretching goal, the remaining distance can appear next to impossible. Many have come within five pounds of their ideal weight, only to discover that the “last five pounds” can seem like the impossible dream. It is here, that they pause to rest, some even turn back.

These are what I call success plateaus. From this vantage point, we can see our goal, but the path now looks much steeper and more difficult than ever. It takes a lot of effort to keep going, but that is exactly what we must do.  

As we look ahead, we realize that what use to be good enough, will not serve us now. After a while, we realize that the journey to the next level is really a journey to perfection. The fact that most of us are far from perfection does not mean that we cannot be perfect, but for some reason, many successful people are afraid to state the goal. They think that others will see them as cocky or arrogant if they say, “I am reaching for perfection”.

Nobody Is Perfect

Some turn back at this point because they think it can’t be done. “Nobody is perfect”, that’s what they have learned, and they believe it. The reach for the next level ultimately becomes a reach for perfection.

What does perfection mean to you?

Do you think it is possible?

What motivates you to reach for it?

Wrapping our head around the idea of becoming perfect is not as difficult as it sounds. Consider again the "last five pounds". They are extremely difficult to shed, but many have done it. When they did, they became their perfect weight. That does not mean that they were without flaw or blemish, it just means that they, by their efforts, completed their journey to their goal weight. That sounds like perfection to me. What does it sound like to you?

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548 

Sometimes, I ask questions to which I already know the answer. I do this, because I want to see what other people know without influencing them. I don't want my thoughts to limit their thinking. I just want to know what they think. It helps me understand them better. It helps them become accountable for the work we are doing together.

I Am Not Looking For Theories

When I ask questions of you, I am not looking for theories. I have studied the theories, now I am learning how to apply them to my life. My questions an invitation for you to think with me. I want to know what you are thinking. I want to know how your thoughts might differ from mine. Your thoughts help me to grow. I find it very valuable when you tell me what you are seeing, and how you are applying your learnings to your life. 

The Most Powerful Question

I consider the single most important question I have discovered in all of my academic and applied learning opportunities to be: "What is my contribution to the problem? I deem it especially empowering because its answer, is the only thing I can change. I cannot change the contributions others are making. I can only change what I am doing. 

The answer to this question helps me clarify what I need to do to grow, and it helps me create an agenda for my own success. Because I am examining myself, I can make things happen. In other words, I am empowered to do what must be done, and to be who I must become. 

That question is much more powerful than asking, "why is this happening to me?" I call this question the "victim question", because it does not require me to take responsibility for my own actions or feelings. It really prevents me from acting, and renders me to a state, where I am constantly being acted upon. As a result, I feel helpless and unable to grow.

What Are Your Questions?

I really enjoy the reflective opportunities I create by posting to blog every day. The daily questions that I ask, remind me that this is not my opportunity to preach to you, or to tell you what to do. I simply seek to share my questions with you, believing that because I am asking them, I will discover my own answers. I realize that my answers will not always be meaningful to you, but that doesn't stop me from thinking that the questions will be. I like the thought of that.

How do questions help you when you find yourself up against a road block?

What questions do you use to inspire your individual growth?

The conundrums that puzzle my puzzler continue to offer me the greatest potential for individual growth. I cannot imagine going through life with asking these amazing questions of self-discovery. They continue to focus me on the discovery of meaning and purpose in my life. That is why I ask so many of them. They have a way of making life better. What do you think about questions?

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Though they both counted the cost, they now find themselves setting new standards for the speed of life. They are feeling the pain that comes from growing. Neither one is really worried, they just felt like they could share the load with me. They both believed that I might help them enjoy the moment and find peace.

Filling Ourselves Up

I first assured them that they are making good choices. Then I let them know that when we stretch to develop our talents, we find ourselves in a different kind of defining moments. These moments actually fill us up, unlike those that come from trials, which normally drain us of our energy, before they strengthen us. 

There is nothing better than pursuing our aspirations and dreams with purpose. When we do so, we raise the bar. It should not surprise us to discover that as we approach our goals, the path appears steeper than it did when we started out. No one reaches for greatness without feeling the weight of the trail. It is just part of the deal. If you want to go for it, there is a price to pay.

We Are Stretchable 

One conversation occurred over lunch. As I listened to my friend describe his sense of being overloaded, I grabbed my empty water glass and the pitcher of water on our table. I began pouring water into the glass and explained that I understood that in some ways he felt like the glass. I kept pouring the water and he became a bit anxious as it neared the top of the glass.

When I was just about to over fill, I said that sometimes we fill like life will overflow on us. We know water is getting to the top, but we do not really know how to stop it. I kept adding water to the glass until it overflowed. Then I made my point

The glass is fixed and can only hold its prescribed amount. You and I however are dynamic. Our capacity can be stretched. We are far more capable than we give ourselves credit, because we see ourselves as the glass. We wrongly believe that our limits can be reached. They cannot. Each time we stretch ourselves, our capacity stretches with it. 

Our Potential Is Limitless

We are made for continuous improvement. We define the limits by the choices we make. Some will say that a man 5 foot 3 inches tall cannot dunk a basketball. They probably never met Mugsy Bogues who did it regularly while enjoying 14 years in the NBA. I don't know how he did it, but he somehow found a way to become the shortest player to ever dunk in the NBA.

Of course, when I speak of our limitless potential, I am speaking of our ability to grow and develop our behaviors. Too often we are asked, "what do you do?" or "what do you want to do?" I think it is more important to focus on who we are, and who we want to become. That is the limit that I enjoy redefining. That is where the ultimate stretch occurs.

What are your current limits?

How will you expand them?

What strengths will make it possible for you to set a new standard?

Don't be afraid of becoming your best. Develop a talent, enhance your academic resume or just go out and serve others. Life is best, when we are full.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

The table was delivered to the office last year. It is an impressive work of art, even when nobody is sitting around it. I am fortunate enough to see it every day that I work in the office. I marvel at the fact that not a single power tool was used to create its beauty. 

A Symbol of Love

The table is inscribed with a giant banyan tree. In the Hindu culture, the banyan tree is a symbol of unity and wish fulfillment. It certainly lives up to its symbolic nature, but to me it stands for something even greater.

Every day, when I walk into my office, I am reminded of my beautiful wife and her never ending support for my efforts. She believes in me and that great blessing inspires me to believe in myself. The work that I do is continuously stretching me and creating new opportunities to step up. Sometimes, the seeds of doubt creep in and frustrate my self-belief for a moment. When I find myself wondering if I am up to the task, I take a moment to regard this beautiful table. Every time I do so, I remember the trust and confidence Stacy places in me and I receive the energy I need to act with poise and purpose.

Seeds of Gratitude and Generosity

Remembrance prompts a sense of gratitude. The expression of a grateful heart is usually manifested through some generous act. A thankful heart is more than willing to speak a kind comment or perform an act of service. When we allow ourselves to live in the moments of gratitude, we are reminded that because we have been given much, we too must give. 

Service to others is the natural desire of an enlightened being, and these selfless acts increase our ability to love the other. They create a comfort within us that removes the fear of being passed over and the anguish of living in scarcity.

The abundant life is the result of our conscious choice to live abundantly. Yes, it it a choice we make and we must make it before it can ever be bestowed upon us. Growth is a positive function and it cannot occur when we act defensively. To truly grow, we must be open to the whisperings of the spirit. Those whisperings only come to us when we are willing to do something more than seek after our own agenda. 

What moves you to remembrance?

What evokes gratitude in your heart?

When was the last time you expanded the reaches of your generosity?

I know these are difficult times. Each day, there is bad news. We can fight against that by abandoning our selfish pursuits and meeting the needs of others. We live in abundance. There is a seat for you at our table.

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Each one of these projects is so intense that if I get even one day behind I am toast. They all bring with them significant trials that I have not faced before. The only option I have is to keep moving forward.

The Dream

There is a recurring dream that I have of hope. It goes something like this; in a few weeks, I will be done with these projects. Then I will take a break from all this madness and I will get some rest. I won't have any new commitments so I will be free to do what I want.  I will finally be free from this stress.

This dream is pleasant, but false. I say this, because I know this is not the first time I have had this dream and it has never come true before. Every time I finish a project or pass through a trial, the next one begins and it is always harder and more difficult than anything I have ever experienced before in my life.

Action Filled Days

I am actually thankful for this reality. I can't imagine how boring life would be for me if the rest, I always dream about really did exist. I love rest, but I can only take so much of it. What I love more, is the challenge that comes from raising the bar.

The trials and triumphs that we face, are meant to be soul stretching experiences. They could not fulfill their purpose if we experienced the same ones over and over again. In order to grow, we experience new challenges. 

Sticking With It

The school of life rarely adjourns and when it does, it is only for a brief recess. Sometimes, a new semester begins, before the old one has ended. The degree of difficulty in the course work increases, without a stated willingness that we are ready to progress. Each lesson teaches us that we are capable of so much more than we previously thought possible. 

Passing grades are only passed out to those who are persistent. Our willingness to stick with it, demonstrates a willingness to progress, even in the face of failure. When we step back and look at our history, we see that what looked like a failure in the moment, actually contributed to our biggest and brightest successes. Somehow, we actually carry with us a perfect record. We have passed every test, and the knowledge we gained is always the resource we rely upon most when we are faced with the next level.

Life Is Good!

I am glad life is this way. It makes me happy to reach a new height, set a new standard and raise the bar. Sometimes it does feel overwhelming and I am ok with that. The older I get, the more clearly I see that it is all invented any way. I get what I want, every single time, even when I don't like what I get. 

How do the challenges you faced ten years ago, compare with the ones you are facing now?

Do they seem the same, smaller or bigger?

What do you rely upon most when you are faced with a new project or trial?

How do keep yourself committed in the face of life?

I find myself thinking about this topic because we are now 11 days into the new year. That doesn't seem like a lot of time, but it is enough time to realize that the challenges of life will always be with us. This is true whether it is the the beginning of the year, or the end of the year. Whether we want it or not, life is purposefully designed to take us through loops of continuous improvement.

Welcome to life. Hang on – now let go!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

The New Me

The symbolic beginning of the new year coincides with the celebration of my birthday. Four days after the new year began in 1966, I was born of goodly parents. This special time of year amply affords everyone one of us the opportunity to consider what want from the new year and who we want our new self to become. Is is any wonder that I associate the goals of a new year with the creation of new me?

I am thankful for this double whammy – and equally grateful to know that the new year is a time of renewal for everyone. It is inspiring to see the masses stretching to be better. I love to ask about the goals for the new year, the resolutions and plans for improvement. There is a special energy at this time of year that is focused on becoming someone better. That is what makes the new year such a happy time.

Pressing Forward

I begin this new year full of energy and life. There is a level of certainty within me that is calling me forward with great anticipation. I see such a positive future and I can't wait to get started. 

I have received some new years, with a feeling of fatigue. I did not rush to start them, I waited as long as I could to jump back in the saddle of life. Living at the speed of life can be overwhelming but it is life-giving. I can feel the current and the rapids all around me this year, but I am anxious to jump in and ride them. 

This will be a breakthrough year for me. It is a year when all of my hard work and dedication will pay off. I can see the line forming and I am excited to meet the people who will become my new friends and associates. I can't wait to connect with the successful people who will fill the seats of this wonderful vision.

I know that there is a lot of work ahead of me, but that is what makes it interesting. The Andrew of 2010 will be in motion, constantly pressing forward. I wouldn't want it any other way. 

Going The Distance

I realize that this year will complete only a very few of us, but that does not make our strivings for perfection any less significant. The journey to wholeness is a series of highs and lows. It is a process that engages us every single day of our lives. 

Our greatest challenge is sticking with it. Many of us start out on the path, but very few of us finish. To be a finisher we must be willing to go the distance. Going the distance requires a clear definition of the finish line. 

I invite you to take some time today visualizing the finish line of the projects that you are currently working on. Does the thought of crossing it energize you and lift you up. If it doesn't, it will be difficult to stick with it when the going gets tough. The going is going to get tough. I guarantee it. The goals we pursue that are worth obtaining stretch and try us in ways that we are unable to imagine at the starting line. It is only when we hit the wall of impossibility that we are able to birth a new self. 

Who will you become in 2010?

Can you see the finish line before you line up at the starting line?

Are you willing to do what it takes?

Breaking through to the other side is only possible when we know what is on the other side. We don't know what is there because we have seen it with our physical eyes, we know, because we have seen it in our hearts and minds as we have labored to plan the journey. Today you are standing on the starting line. The past is now behind and insignificant. It is our history, but not our future. You are free from the past. Who do you want to be today!

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548