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After reading hundreds of self-help books and experiencing life for 2/3 of a century, here are some valuable guidelines for gaining personal insight and moving forward.

-What makes you laugh? Situation comedy? Children's laughter? Reading jokes? Laughter is one of life's best medicines for whatever ails you. Take time-out daily to do something that makes you Laugh or, at least, brings you an inner smile.

-What brings you peace? What helps to still your mind? Some people meditate, pray, or simply enjoy a few moments of reverie in Nature. Some prefer a bubble bath. Do whatever works for you.

-What gives you hope? Can you dream of something that you know would brighten up your day? Is it something you can do or make happen? Go for it.

-What brings you joy? Perhaps you've already discovered something important while doing this personal exercise. What thrills you? What brings excitement to your life? Dancing, singing, contemplating, exploring, participating in sports, exercising, motorcycling? Do you like to travel to new places or revisit old? If you are more introverted, you may enjoy reading, doing crosswords, or solving murder mysteries.

-What gives you a feeling of being loved, grateful, blessed? This is a kind of "count your blessings" type of exercise. Feeling grateful - for being alive, for a good friend, for good health, for personal freedoms - can give you a feeling of being loved.

-Action. Human beings must learn to simply "be" and realize the invaluable worth of being human. But we are also here to "do." The old story that a person's life is evaluated by the dash between their birth and death dates is true. "Joe Smith: birth date passing." What happened during the dash? That's what defined Joe Smith.

-Try something new. If you feel stale and habituated to old, non-pleasurable routines, reach outside your comfort zone. Tap into a new activity that excites you or calls to you. Get away from the vicarious enjoyment of TV; be the person in the scene that captivates your imagination and heart.

-Animals can offer very rewarding life experiences. Animals connect with people on many levels. Some people feel more at ease and less self-conscious around animals. Make contact. Go to a zoo or aquarium. Go to a pet shelter and adopt a best friend that requires love - and gives more in return.

-Give, without thought of getting back, and you will receive more in return. As you go through life, you will find that its meaning seems to involve human relationships. Why are you here? What is life's purpose? What are your fondest memories? Often, the answers are based on your interactions with others.

Giving brings great rewards to the giver. That is one of life's gifts. When you actively participate, you will discover Life unfolds as a flower forced to bloom.

Reflection creates insight and motivation. Evaluate what's important to you. Envision your future and project it onto a mental screen.

Now, step into your own movie, and become the star of your own show.

Learn more about this author, Karon Brandt.
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