Foundation for Success: Empowered Thinking!

Imagine being plagued by constant self-doubt and pain from your past.  A constant barrage of inner criticism to yourself is an exhausting state of mind, isn't it?  I would know.  I used to live that way.  My mind would literally "beat me up" from morning until night with criticism and judgment:  "You should be further a long in your career. . . you should be getting more done at home. . .you are not pretty enough or skinny enough. . . your friends have nicer homes than you, why can't you get further ahead and catch up to them?"

Wow.  Just reviewing the way I used to think makes me feel exhausted. 

I woke up to my thinking about 8 years ago.  I literally began to study my thoughts, examining them closely one-by-one.  I wrote them down.  I questioned them, "Why do I choose to dwell on this thought?  What is the impact of this thought patter in my life?  Who would I be if I changed my thinking?"

I gained an awareness that led me through a remarkable process of transformation:  I changed from the inside out.  As I started to change my thinking, I literally gained a new leash on life!  It was amazing.  My emotions went from sad and depressed to peaceful and excited.  I became free from fear and self-doubt.  I opened the door to my dreams and saw that I DID have the power to pursue what I really wanted in life.

Anyone can go through this type of change.  In the past few years I have coached hundreds of men and women through this same process.  It works.  It is simple.  It takes work, though--a personal commitment to become aware of your thoughts and then a determination to create new thinking habits. 

Shifting your thoughts is THE MOST WORTHWHILE way you could spend the first part of 2012.  Good thinking is the foundation to success and satisfaction.

Here are the keys areas you can focus on for the week ahead:


1. Observe your fears and worries – write these down on paper in detail so you can see them clearly.

2. Observe negative emotions that you feel throughout the day – what was the thought that preceded the way you felt? If you want to feel emotionally and physically better more of the time, you need to understand the thoughts that are causing you to feel bad emotionally.

3. Notice what percentage of time your thoughts are focused in the past, the present moment or the future. Most of us live the majority of our time in the past or the future. By observing the patterns you have, you can then learn how to focus more of your thoughts in the present moment. The present moment is the ONLY moment you can impact – the past was a present moment that already happened and the future is a present moment that is going to happen.

4. Observe your self-talk – what do you think and say about yourself? What aspects of yourself do you like? What aspects of yourself do you judge and criticize? By understanding self-doubt you can then identify key ways you might be limiting yourself in your life.

If you feel stuck or overwhelmed, don't worry.  Changing your thinking takes time.  It is a process that takes consistent, moment-by-moment awareness.  If you find yourself struggling, seek help.  Yes, you can drop me an email and I will respond if you do.

I know YOU HAVE MORE POWER than you yet realize.  I trust you are ready to tap into it :)

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

P.S. I still review my thoughts every day...and I still find opportunities to change my thinking! 

Harness Your Power: Be Patient

I am practicing patience.  Every day, I have a set of intentions and goals.  And, every day turns out differently than I plan it to be.  I am learning that my path unfolds in a way I never expect and in a timing that is far different than I originally planned.  I also see that it is happening in a way that is for the best of me and my family.

The wisdom I continue to gain as I work as a coach, speaker and writer is profound.  And, the more I practice what I teach, the more I realize that  I am still in need of practice!  I am fascinated by this adventure I am on.  It is truly an adventure full of ups and downs, highs and lows. 

Each experience enriches the fiber of my being.  I am stretched farther than I thought I could go.  I am learning to be more surrendered than I ever wanted to be.  It feels good to keep growing and yet stay peaceful in the midst of many challenging circumstances.

I have come to believe that things do happen, the breakthroughs I long for do come, at the RIGHT TIME.  I do not know what that right time is...but God certainly does.

So, this week I encourage you to trust your journey.  Just have fun and enjoy this interesting journey you are on.  Engage with life each day.  Relax.  Don't worry so much.  Allow yourself to be present enough to enjoy the gifts of wisdom being presented to you in the form of HARD CHALLENGES.  Yes, these are truly gifts as are the difficult people who enter your life.

I wish you a patient, peaceful week.
May you find joy in the waiting.

With love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.

Harness Your Power: Revamp your morning and evening routines!

This week I will keep it simple and practical.  In working with my life coaching clients I have noticed that many have formed morning and evening routines that often aren't supportive of well-being.

When you wake up in the morning, what is the first thing that you do?  Do you turn on the TV, radio or computer?  Do you open the newspaper or Internet news and start getting "caught up"?  What do you think about first thing? 

Most of us get the day started by filling our mind with fearful, negative media content.  Or, we start the day worried about what is ahead of us.  Then, by the time we get in the car on our way to work, we already feel drained or even depressed.

There are other great morning routines you could design for yourself.  I'd recommend adding a few minutes of gratitude and deep breathing even before you get out of bed.  In the shower and as you get dressed, be mindful of the amazing body you have.  Experience the water, the smell of the soap, the various beauty products you use.  The morning routine is full of sensation and you could actually enjoy every moment of it if you were more aware.

Now, review your evening routine.  Do you fall asleep every night with the TV and the lights on?  Do you watch endless hours of reality TV or political news?  Just notice what you do without judgment.  See if there might be a happier, more peaceful way to close the day.  Could you make a list of your blessings?  Maybe a great book would relax your mind and open your heart.  Some soft classical music might soothe your spirit.  There are so many new possibilities to consider as you make the end of your day something that opens the door to restful sleep.

You have power to create positive, supportive daily routines.
How might you change yours up?

Keep in mind how short life is.  Just today I was talking to a friend.  Her co-worker was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  There were no warning signs.  And, he may not have long to live.  Enjoy today.  Cherish your time with family and friends.  Value the health you have. 

With great love for you,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Choose Peace

Peace has been my focus this week.  In the midst of uncertainty, I have learned that either I can be afraid of what's to come or I can choose to relax into the unknown.  I've been relaxing.  I've been affirming:  I am always guided.  I am clearly shown the best next steps on my path.

Life has a way of guiding us when we open our minds and hearts and trust.  I've seen this repeatedly in my life.  I have plenty of evidence of the unique twists and turns my path has taken.  So, in this time I am remembering how I always am supported and cared for even when the path ahead appears cloudy.

I've gone back to the basics of breathing deeply, stretching my muscles, taking a walk and connecting with nature.  I've looked at my children and focused on being child-like with them.  I keep coming back to THIS MOMENT and finding the enjoyment available to me now.

Hope these ideas help you in finding some peace this week.
You deserve to have peace NOW !!

With Love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Release the Pressure

Often it is we who are the ones who put the most pressure on ourselves.  I'm really good at this -- especially when it comes to writing.  I've been working on a book now for several years.  I've made good progress, in fact, I'm getting really close to finalizing it.  Yet, there have been days when I am putting so much pressure on myself to get it done, that I give myself a headache and stomachache.

I laugh as I write.  I know that my thoughts on the matter are causing the physical reaction in my body and the stressful emotions.

As I notice this happening, I stop.  I step back.  I let it go.  I breathe.  I remember that my best writing comes when it moves from my heart to my fingers and onto the page.  I realize pushing something to completion and exhausting myself in the meantime is actually not how I want to live.

So, I am refocusing my thinking this week.  I'm trying to rest my mind and let go of the pressure-filled thinking.  A book is in my heart and will be born at the right moment.  In fact, sometimes what is inside us must mature long enough so that it isn't born before it's time.  I guess like  a pregnant lady nearing the end of her last tri-mester, the feeling of "I just want this baby out of me!" is what I feel some days.

Whether you are writing a book, remodelling your home, dealing with your children or any other project going on in your life, I invite you to release the inner pressure and instead, let the flow of life move you through it.

The river of life moves us forward naturally.  If we just stay relaxed, we move.  If we swim upstream thinking we have to figure it all out on our own, we do exhaust ourselves (at least I sure do).

Life is on schedule.  Perhaps we just need to shift our thinking and be a bit gentler to ourselves.

Here are a few suggestions:

I relax my mind.
I release the inner pressure.
I open to the flow of life.
I am on schedule.
Everything that needs to get done in a day, gets done.
The rest of my tasks and projects are there waiting for me tomorrow.
I rejuvenate my mind and spirit and body so I feel well.
From joy, my best work flow easily.

I send my love to you :)
We sure are funny creatures, aren't we ?

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

p.s. I'm taking on new life coaching clients if you are interested and could use the support.

Harness Your Power: Silence, Silence, Silence

Silence is rich.  I have been spending time in quiet, deep breathing almost every day for the past seven years.  There is nothing like a few minutes of breathing to calm my spirit.

I've realized that no mater how long I spend breathing deeply, there is always benefit.  In the middle of the day if I take a few breaths and stop my thinking for just a moment, I feel renewed.  If I sit for ten minutes after the kids have gone to bed, there is great reward in this too.  Longer periods of twenty to thirty minutes take me into a deep state of inner peace and joy.

When I need answers to my most pressing concerns, a few minutes in silence connects me to a Divine Wisdom.  I find that the answers I need more easily emerge when I am quiet inside my mind.

If you have a mind that races with fear, worry, guilt, shame and stories from your past, perhaps it might be worth your time to sit quietly and breathe deeply.  It may feel difficult at first because your mind will want to keep it's pace.  If you persist, you will find that your mind will grow calmer and your body will feel renewed.

When I attended a seminar last year we actually ate our meals in silence.  It made the experience of eating toally different.  Rather than exchanging stories with other participants, we were solely focused on enjoying our food.  They also encouraged us to spend one day of the seminar in total silence -- no speaking or communicating with anyone.  It was joyful to do this, in some ways'a relief to be with the group but have no pressure of interaction and no need to say anything.

This week I encourage you to spend at least a few minutes a day sitting quietly and breathing.  Just incorporate it wherever it fits into your day.  Let your cares go for that time.  Just focus on your breath and allow your body, mind and spirit to completely relax.  You may find that you hunger longer and more frequent periods of silence.

I am doing this with you.

Much love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Thinking Storms

Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed mentally, emotionally and physically when you begin to focus either on your fears or on intensely painful stories from your past?

I've decided to call these experiences "Thinking Storms."

I had a few today.  Some of my old financial fears were activated.  I sat and watched the mental patterns churn.  I noticed the sick feeling in my stomach and tension in my shoulders.  I could feel my breathing get faster.  The nervous inner energy translated into tapping my hand and wiggling my leg. 

A thinking storm was in full force.

What could I do?

I've learned the past few years that there are plenty of ways to move into the eye of the thinking storms.  Here's what I did today:  I moved into my Observer role and watched the thoughts, observing them in detail.  I observed the way it moved through the emotional and physical body.  I knew what was going on inside myself because this old pattern has repeated itself thousands and thousands of times.

I smiled as I saw it, even in the midst of the intensity.  Then, I began with affirmations: "I am safe.  I am supported.  I am guided in every moment.  I am blessed beyond measure.  (Then, I listed every blessing I could think of).  I am abundantly cared for by the Universe.  I am healthy, happy and whole.  Everything I need moves easily into my life. .." 

The old thoughts kept wanting to take over.  So, then, I moved into deep breathing.  I watched the mental patterns swirling.  I breathed and could sense an inner peace even as the thought storm seemed to intensify.

I just kept breathing and affirming what I WANTED rather than focusing on my fears.

My children entered the room.  I shifted my thoughts onto them, noticing every little detail of their lovely faces.  How beautiful they are.  How full of life.  I looked deeply into their eyes and saw the Spark of Life.  I felt a moment of incredible joy and fulfillment.

They left the room and those thinking storms wanted to restart.  I said a prayer and offered the mental burdens to the Divine. 

Before I knew it, the storm had passed and my energy felt refreshed.

I wanted to share this with you because I experience the challenge of old thought patterns.  I just deal with them in a much different way now.  The thought storms do not have the same power over me.  I can be calm as they happen.

Hope these ideas will be helpful to you!
They sure work for me and my clients.

Affirmations.  Breathing.  Gratitude.  Mindfulness.  Prayer.  Handing over the Burdens.

Excellent tools to help you feel safe in the midst of the storms.

With all my love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Contemplate New Perspectives

During our weekly visit to the library I found a book that I had been wanting to read: Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life by Wayne Dyer. I didn't know much about the book's content but the title drew me in because I teach people how to heal their lives by healing their thoughts.

I was unexpectedly surprised, I should even say delighted, as I opened the pages and began to read. Wayne Dyer spent a whole year meditating on and writing about the Tao Te Ching. In the pages I found words that expressed many of the new approaches to life that I had intuitively been experiencing.

Each day I've closed my eyes before opening the book and asked to be guided to just the right page. On several days I was given the 37th verse. Here it is:

The Tao does nothing,

but leaves nothing undone.

If powerful men could center themselves in it,

the whole world would be transformed

by itself, in its natural rhythms.

When life is simple,

pretenses fall away;

our essential natures shine through.

By not wanting, there is calm,

and the world will straighten itself.

When there is silence,

one finds the anchor of the universe within oneself.

Wow. There is way too much for me to unpack from this verse in just this one blog. So, I will share with you the main idea that I've been meditating upon. The first line struck me deeply. It is so beautiful and profound. The way I read it is: The Universe does nothing but leaves nothing undone. Weeks before I read this I was often spending my time looking at the birds and trees thinking to myself, "Wow, how is it that all of nature is cared for so abundantly and yet human being seem to struggle so much?"

I spent my week looking for examples of the truth of this phrase -- of how often things are done for me without me having to do a thing. I could name a thousand bodily functions that prove this to be the case. Yet, there are other layers where I've found this to be true. When I've set an intention to be truly healed (emotionally, spiritually and physically), it seems the Universe brings me the right people and experiences that allow this to occur. Very little, if any, effort on my part happens except to be open and willing, to be surrendered to the possibility of the healing.

Other instances in my life show me that this is the case. How did I attend Princeton? The Universe arranged it. How did I start playing basketball at age 16 and end up playing pro? Yes, I worked hard on the court, but there was something more to it--there was something that occurred naturally, on my behalf, to make that a possibility. The list of these events could go on and on.

The peace in my heart has deepened this week. It is as if my inner knowing that I am safe, cared for and often carried on my journey has been given a name in finding this phrase from the 37th verse.

Take time this week to read and re-read the above verse. See which phrase sinks into your heart. Ask to be shown the meaning for you.

As we contemplate these new perspectives we are stretched. In being stretched, the diamonds and gold that we hold within are brought to the surface.

May you find deep peace and joy,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Enjoy the Boring

(Maggie, Skye and two friends at summer camp)

My daughter Skye suggested we go see a movie this weekend. We went to see UP! , one of the recent Disney releases. I must confess to you, I love kid’s movies. In the childish antics and humor always appears a hidden message for my soul.

My favorite scene in UP! is when the young scout tells the elderly man how much he loved going to the ice cream store with his father. After getting their cones, the boy and his father would sit on the curb and play a game – the dad counted the blue cars driving by and the boy counted the red ones.

As the scout finishes telling his story he says, “You know, it’s the boring things I seem to remember the most.”

This one line summed up much of my learning the past year. Most of my adult life I’ve had a sense that my life was only meaningful if I was approaching or having a big, exciting moment. I assumed that the small, ordinary, routine moments were unimportant. In fact, I often rushed through them.

I was missing out on so much beauty in life!

Listening to my children giggle in the living room while I do the dishes is joyful. Scrubbing the floors with Skye "helping" me is an adventure. Tucking the little angels in bed each night is something I wouldn't want to miss. Waking up in the early morning hours to make my morning cup of coffee and spend some quiet time in peace is wonderful. Sitting on the couch with my husband after a long day and having a quiet conversation is relaxing.

Little, daily moments like this are full of deep meaning when you are open to experience them. Notice any dread you feel with the ordinary, the routine or the mundane.

Consider stepping back this week and looking at life with fresh eyes. What might you be missing out on?

Loving the ordinary and the extraordinary too,

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Love What You Do!

I've spent quite a deal of time with Maggie and Skye this week since they are now on summer break. It's such a pleasure to have this luxury (something I now considered a necessity). As we drove to some of our favorite places (the park, the zoo, the library, the pool) I was continually reminded that not too long ago, I would never have the freedom to spend this time with them. For many years I did not have this flexibility.

Let's rewind to 2004: I was sitting in an office with a nice title, a good paycheck and feeling BORED out of my mind. To honor my employer I did my best every day. I must admit, though, that my mind often wandered to the question, "What do I REALLY want to do with my life?"

I struggled for a long time and could only answer, "I don't know." Even though I couldn't pinpoint the type of position or title I wanted to have, I began writing down the things I wanted: flexibility, more time with my kids, to feel happy every day, to have freedom to travel and work whenever and wherever I wanted...the list grew over time. This clarification process went on for over a year and then suddenly, the light bulb came on. I spent two days at a Terri Levine seminar called The Learning Spa and within the first few minutes of being there, I KNEW! Many attendees were life coaches and they began explaining their job to me. What? I could get paid to help people improve their lives and feel better about themselves???

I instantly realized coaching was for me. Not more than five minutes later the first speaker got on stage. I sat in my seat wondering, "Why am I not up there speaking?" I had done public speaking in junior high, high school, college and as a professional basketball player. I knew that I wanted to be on stage again.

At that point I already was producing my daily email list, Food For Thought (you can sign up at my website http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/ ). So, I finally concluded with my affirmative statement: I am an internationally recognized speaker, life coach and writer. Wow. I had my vision. It was finally clear.

The road forward was not always easy as I got launched but I kept taking small steps each day: printed business cards, set up a blog, a website, took coaching classes, did speaking gigs for free -- I started where I was with the resources I had and before I knew it, I had a paid speaking engagement and a paying coaching client! Those were exciting times for me and I certainly celebrated. There were often challenges and there still are many that I face. However, I LOVE what I do.

A friend commented on my Facebook site the other day, "Trish, you are really good at this." Yes, I am. I am good at it because it is what I am passionate about and it fits who I am as a person. My growing success has to do with my hunger to learn more, to help more people and to be the best ME that I can be.

If you are sitting in a boring job wondering how you can stomach another day of work, please begin to affirm this several times an hour through your day: I open to doing something I love to do for my work. Open to the possibility that there IS another option and you CAN find it! Just starting to believe that you won't be stuck doing work you tolerate (or even hate) will give you some fresh energy. Then begin to imagine waking up and feeling truly excited about the day ahead rather than dreading it! How different would that be?

I challenge you this week to spend at least 10 minutes each day thinking about what you would really love to do. If you already have a job you enjoy, then spend the time dreaming about personal endeavors that get your juices flowing -- is there a book waiting to emerge from your soul? Are you longing to travel to every country on the Globe by age 55? Do you want to fly in a hot air balloon? Let your heart open and allow any suppressed desires to come up for exploration.

When you do what you love and love what you do, life begins to feel much like heaven. Yes, there are still difficulties, road bumps and detours in life, but you have a lighter spirit and more energy to deal with them.

What would you really, really, really love to do? How do you really want to feel about life? Who do you desire to be? Some wonderful questions to ponder this week!

If you need any support in answering these questions, please email me. In my work, I help people get clear on what they truly want in life and then give them the support they need in moving one baby step at a time towards it.

Loving life,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Silence & Listening

I spent this entire week looking inside myself, learning and growing. I was reminded through some interactions with people close to me, that I want to improve my listening skills. A few days before these conversations occurred, I had picked up a book at the library called, "The Sacred Art of Listening." How is it that I always have the books I need right at hand? I'm so grateful for the way the Universe is always at work, supporting and preparing me even when I don't know what I need!

In this helpful book, I was reminded of the importance of practicing personal silence. Quieting our minds opens up space for us to BE more of ourselves. It is also an important practice in relation to listening. If our minds are uncontrolled when we are by ourselves, the mind's activity will inevitably pick up its pace when we are interacting with others. Then, when we find ourselves in intense conversations where we hold differing viewpoints with others, the mental speed ramps up another notch entirely!

Practicing silence helps us to see that we can be in control of our minds rather than having our minds in control of us. We are able to slow down the thinking mechanism and open up space in our head and our heart when we do this. Then, during our daily life, we can use silence "on-demand" to get back to peace. I often spend moments breathing each day to calm myself and regain perspective. The same can be true for using silence in the time we spend with others.

To truly listen to another person, we must be able to slow our minds down. If not, we will be thinking of our to-do list, past history we've had with the other person or the next thing we want to say to them rather than deeply hearing them. If our minds are quiet, we can graciously accept their words and take them in. Rather than jumping into a barrage of comebacks, we can sit and consider their perspectives. Then, after a few moments of quiet, we can respond lovingly to what they say.

Imagine if only 1% more people in the World practiced this! There would be less conflict and love would grow. We all desire to be heard. So, let's take time this week to work on our listening skills. I'd recommend that each day for the upcoming week you spend at least 2 minutes in silence focused on your breath. See if you can get your mental chatter to slow down a bit. Fill your lungs with breath and shift your own energy. Practice this on your own first. Then, if you find yourself in an intense conversation with another person, practice it again. Quiet your mind and practice moving your thoughts out of the way so you can receive what they are communicating to you.

Let me know how this goes! Let's be the change we want to see in the World. Let's reduce the conflict in our lives so that we reduce the conflict in the World at large.

On a side-note, please check out my updated website. It is full of wonderful resources to support you in your personal growth and well-being. My only desire in life is that more and more people see that they can move beyond suffering and become truly peaceful and happy inside.

A big hug,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Stop Trying to Control Others

I want to share a quick insight to help you in your week: We CAN'T control other people. Have you noticed? People do whatever they want to do...and often, it is not what WE want them to do, is it?

Notice this week how much stress and drama you create when you try to make someone do something that they really don't want to do. Yes, we can make suggestions and offer ideas and opinions to others. Then, we need to let go. We need to allow others to follow the path that they want for their life journey. Their life is up to them and they are the only ones responsible for their experience.

Too often we think we know what is best for another person. When they don't do things our way, we get angry and disgruntled. We feel the need to lecture and push them to move in a new direction.

What if we were to trust each person to their own journey?

I've found that as I let people make their own choices, they actually do fairly well. I make suggestions and lovingly share my perspectives, but then I believe that they will do whatever is best for them (even if I would never make the same choices.)

It is a relief to stop trying to control other people. I find then when I don't focus my attention on controlling others, I have plenty of energy to focus on me. I need this energy so that I can be my best.

I'm also learning that no matter what other's decide to do (even the people most intimate with me), I can always choose to be happy and empowered. I'm never stuck in any situation. I am always guided as to a way forward. More and more I am coming to realize that I don't NEED others in my life...I enjoy having people in my life and I love interacting with others and sharing love. However, I am whole in and of myself. The less needy I feel, the more I can give others the space they need to be themselves.

I have also realized that decisions that other people make are about THEM not about me. So, if someone rejects me, says something hurtful or makes a choice that could seemingly hurt me, I realize that they can decide whatever they want. My power lies in choosing how I respond to each moment.

Just for this week tune into how often you try to control others (your children, your spouse, your friends, your lover). Watch how this drains you and causes you to worry. Open to seeing and approaching your relationships with fresh eyes.

The bird in the cage is not free. When we open the door and allow the bird to do whatever it wants, we will know if it wants to be with us if it comes back freely.

All my love,
Here to support you,
Patricia Omoqui
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Learn From Intense Reactions

I had a classic situation of "getting a button pushed" on Easter Sunday. Someone close to me said something and I found myself becoming defensive. I watched myself as this inner reaction was happening. I could sense an escalation so I walked away, took some deep breaths and gave myself some space.

I looked closely at what was said. I knew it wasn't true but I still felt a deep need to defend myself. Why was I being so defensive? I waited for an answer. Then, I saw something going on beneath the surface.

I had a very sensitive spot inside myself. I felt that I had been putting others before myself and this person was accusing me of making myself a priority and pushing others aside. What! How could they think this way!

I tried to understand why this was getting to me and I realized it was because I was putting my needs aside too much to please others. I was "sacrificing" my needs and wants for others. Because of this I had built up some anger and resentment that got activated when this learning partner accused me of putting myself before other people.

What wonderful clarification comes when we find ourselves getting worked up! I actually have grown to celebrate these discoveries. Rather than looking at the other person as being "wrong," I instead turn within and look at why I am feeling so strongly about what has been said or done. As I do this, I always discover meaningful insights to help me grow.

Here is what I gained from the tough moment: if I am going to help others and accommodate the schedules of other people, I should do so because I want to not because I feel I have to do so. I noticed my old pattern that I have of bottling up the way I really feel to keep peace. If I had been expressing the way I felt all along, I wouldn't have been on the verge of a major eruption!

I love my patterns. I know them well. Yet, they still sometimes find subvert ways of staying in operation. What gives me great joy is that these patterns always do get exposed and brought to my attention so I can take another look and see new opportunities for shifting my thinking and behavior.

Watch when you feel someone has "pushed your buttons." Notice intense emotions like anger, disappointment, frustration, guilt or shame. These emotions are clues that point you to more personal learning.

I trust you will enjoy this week, even the moments that feel stressful. There is beauty even in stress!

To your peace and well-being,

Your Learning Partner,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Love this Moment!

I'm back from an amazing 9 days at Byron Katie's School for The Work. It was one of the most intense experiences I've ever had. There was time for silence, for meditation and for delving into our inner most beings to become aware of fears and judgments that cause suffering.

I met so many wonderful people. If you are ready for excavating your "underworld", I'd highly recommend this experience.

One thing I'm experiencing in a more profound way than before is relaxing into the moment -- really loving the moment for what it is. I see more clearly how supported I am -- there is always ground beneath my feet to support me as I walk. My breath continues whether I focus on it or not. My heart beats and my blood flows. The more I calm my mind, the more clear my vision becomes. I see plentiful blessings surrounding me even in the midst of daily life challenges.

I invite you this week to take time to breathe deeply and become one with the moment. Why not love where you are right now? What if you just fully let go of your worries and your desire for control and experienced for a few moments how supported you are? There is relief when we drop our stories of the past and let go of our fears of the future. How much energy are you wasting on needless shame or worry?

I also had the opportunity to have a 10 minute video-taped interview with Byron Katie. In about a month's time it will be edited and should be airing on Nigerian TV and will be available on my website. Katie is a delightful, enlightened, peaceful woman. Please check out her website: http://www.thework.com/ . The process she teaches called The Work is a way to expand your perspective and release deep-seated fear.

I'm here to love and support each of you.

If I can be of any help, just drop me an email.

With love, peace and joy,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Move to Deep Inner Peace and Calm

This has been an interesting week for me. I feel as if my internal energy has been shifting and growing more calm. My grandfather's death triggered some deep intensities -- though I miss him, I knew that what I was experiencing was different than grief. This event stirred up some of my deepest fears and pain. For a few days I sat with this old energy and just watched it. After I moved through it, I experienced a state of calm and peace deeper than I've know my whole life.

Even though there are many seeming challenges in my life I feel relaxed and peaceful. I am experiencing evidence of these internal changes in my outer world. As my energy is shifting inside, I see "stuck" points and areas of clutter in my house disappearing. Though I've envisioned these changes for a long time, they are suddenly getting resolved. I am able to simply and easily move into the space and take care of it. I wasn't able to do that before.

I also find that the Universe truly does make my schedule. When I stop worrying about how things will work out, they just do work out easily and effortlessly. My daughter Skye got a stomach bug on Wednesday night. I had several life coaching clients scheduled for Thursday. Skye needed my attention on Thursday when she stayed home from school. I was shocked when 2 of my 3 clients called and cancelled their appointments. This rarely happens! Then, when my remaining client called, Skye was asleep and I was able to give my full attention to coaching. There is truly nothing to worry about. Everything works out perfectly.

I am also getting to a deeper knowing of a verse in the Bible that says something like, "No matter what state I find myself in, I can be content." I feel truly satisfied right now with what I have. I even feel that if for some reason I lost everything, that the peace that passes understanding would still be there. And, if for some reason the Universe poured millions of dollars into my life, I'd still be in peace. My joy, peace and hope don't come from the material world, it comes from my connection to my Source.

I don't know if I'm expressing in words the profound sense of calm that I have within. My energy used to be so frantic, fearful and worried. I've focused for the last few years on shifting my thinking, on healing the deep hurt and pain in my being...and at last, I've come to a level of peace I thought to be possible....but now know to be possible.

I look forward to journeying deeper into this peace. I apologize if these ramblings aren't fully clarified. I am trying to express this new experience in words and sometimes words aren't adequate to express what we feel.

I wish you deep peace and inner calm this week.

There is nothing like it. It changes everything.

A big hug to all,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Celebrate to the Fullest!

I had a special week. Thursday was my 35th birthday. I must say that this was one of my best ones ever. It wasn't because of the type of celebration I had. Yes, I had the traditional cake, a nice dinner out with my family, loving cards and even a massage! But, my birthday this year felt more joyful because of the many inner shifts and deep personal healing I have experienced this year.

I've decided that my intention for the upcoming year is to live with freedom and joy. In some dark times recently I saw how my deepest fears caused me to feel terribly worried and upset. I must say that I am tired of personal suffering. I've discovered that I am able to feel peace more of the time. In fact, with the help of teachers (listening to their CD's and reading their books) I have learned techniques that allow me to see the beauty and peace in each moment.

It's not that outer circumstances aren't challenging because they often are. The difference is that I am approaching these challenges in a new way. I question my mind. I examine my thoughts and see when they send me into feeling upset and exhausted. I stop. I make a conscious choice to see the possibility in each and every moment.

I've been practicing pulling myself back to the moment for several years now. Finally, I am able most of the time to live in the present. And, if I slip to the past or the future, I notice it. I come back to All That Is in the moment. It is refreshing to be in the moment. It is invigorating not to be drained by my fears. It feels like a relief to be able to experience joy again.

That's why my birthday felt so different this year. It was different because my inner being has grown and is more at peace. I am able to celebrate in new ways! It is a happier place to be. I can play like a kid now. I can laugh and be silly in a way I've been unable to for many years. It's nice to feel child-like again.

I feel tremendously blessed. I have been using a new technique during my daily walks. I want to share it with you because I feel such positive, hopeful energy when I do this. I recently read the book The Moses Codes by James Twyman. He tells the story from the Bible of Moses and the Burning Bush. Moses asked the Burning Bush, who are you? God answered Moses in a new way with a new name -- I Am That I Am.

When I heard James Twyman speak a week ago, he demonstrated how to use this name as a means to draw into our lives the experiences we want. Let me give you an example of how I use this to raise my energy. Here are the types of affirmations I create in the structure of I Am That I Am.

I am peace, I am.

I am love, I am.

I am abundant, I am.

I am two million dollars, I am!

I am full of faith, I am.

(I go on and on putting in whatever word I want to be or to draw into my life. As I say these phrases --actually, I chant them aloud as I walk-- I feel the energy of the experience of peace, love, abundance etc.)

Then I move on to offer the same thing to the rest of the World.

We are peace, we are.

We are love, we are.

We are free, we are.

We are rich, we are.

We are joyful, we are.

We are creative, we are.

We are amazing, we are.

We are full of gifts and talents, we are.

We are leaders, we are.

So, you get the idea, right? You can do this in your way. I'm sharing mine because when I do this as I walk it truly helps me. Rather than allowing my mind to drift to the seeming problems in my life, I keep focused on what I WANT TO CREATE. I affirm who I am. I see the vision for what can be changed across our planet.

Why not give this a try this week? Try to stay in this activity for as long as you can be focused. Let me know what you feel as you experience this.

I am so grateful to so many people. I am blessed to have caring mentors, friends and family around me. I am delighted by the material blessings I have -- from a warm scarf, to a soft bed to the trees at the park. Life is remarkable when you see it minus the fear and worry blinders.

Have a blessed week. Be present. Stay focused in gratitude. Use affirmations to bring yourself back to this moment. Each moment is truly exquisite. Have a loving week.

With love and gratitude for each one of you,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Check out my videos on YouTube...they were created to help and support you in your journey.

Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=patricia+omoqui&search_type=&aq=f .

Harness Your Power: THE KEY

I have been constantly reminded this week of THE KEY to peace and joy during times of change and uncertainty. It is simple. It holds open a space of all possibility and total power. You can even find wonder and beauty at all times in your life if you remember THE KEY.

THE KEY is the present moment. In a sessions with a dear life coaching client this week, we talked at length about the importance of being determined to live in the NOW. This client has his mom and step-father in the hospital, has a job that deals with the volatility of the stock market and a dog who has a torn ACL and needs surgery. Talk about stressful circumstances!

In our conversation we discussed a few helpful questions to use when the future seems overwhelming or the past brings us a feeling of shame. I want to share these with you in hopes that they will assist you in staying connected with THE KEY--living life one moment at a time, fully present and open to the miracles available in each moment of life.

Question #1: Do I have everything I need in this moment? Anytime I consider this question I come to the conclusion, "YES. I do have what I need in THIS moment." I am always provided for. Did I have enough food to eat today? Yes. Did I have a place to lay my head? Yes. Are there clothes on my back? Yep. Am I breathing? Certainly. Can I find peace right now? If I stay present, I sure can.

Question #2: What good am I missing in this moment? We often get so focused on the things we feel are wrong in our lives. We become so preoccupied with the additional money we want to give us greater ease in paying our bills, the new clothes we'd enjoy, the bigger house that would feel nice...our focus goes away from what we DO HAVE to what we DON'T HAVE. When we pose this question, it brings us back to take a fresh look at what good we already have in our lives. This question is also great in challenging situations -- there is always something good to focus on even when life feels difficult. Will you open to find the good? If you do, I am sure you will begin to notice it!

Question #3: When do I have personal power? There is only one answer to this question -- it is the NOW. In each moment if you will keep your mind fully focused, you open to divine wisdom, phenomenal strength and inspired hope. In the present moment we receive all the guidance we need to navigate difficult situations and make progress towards creating what we want to experience in our lives. It is our preoccupation with the future, our self-doubts and limiting thoughts (based upon our past experiences) that cut us off from the step-by-step guidance we need to move rapidly and supernaturally through our life circumstances.

I find in my life coaching work that whatever I share with my clients ends up being wisdom that I need to apply to my own life. So, all week long I found myself using these questions to focus my energy in the Now. It is refreshing to live in the present moment. There is such joy, peace, hope, wonder and love when we live life one moment at a time. Trust each moment of life. You are safe and secure. You are not alone -- Spirit surrounds you, fills you and infuses your life with all you need. Just open. Simply open to THE KEY -- to each present moment of your life.

Trust the moment. We each have THE KEY -- will you begin to use it? It will open the door to countless blessings if you do.

With great love for each of you,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Release Excuses

It is easy to feel a "victim" of life. People don't always treat us like we want them too. Financial markets don't move in the direction we hope. Circumstances rarely ever turn out as we planned. In the midst of all these aspects of life that we can't control, we forget that we can control the most important thing of all -- our reaction.

For several years I've observed people in my life wanting to blame outside forces for where they are in their lives. They spend hours complaining, whining and resisting life. They use large amounts of energy trying to find excuses as to why they feel unhappy. I understand. I've been in the same place--fretting and trying to control my life thinking that doing so would make me feel better.

It wasn't until I stopped blaming others that I became vividly aware that if I go inside, I can find peace. I choose how I feel. No one can dictate that for me. I choose what I think. Nobody is thinking for me. It is I who choose my reactions to life. Once I understood that I am the creator of my life experience, my whole life changed from within my heart.

People in my life were still the same. Circumstances remained challenging. The light of hope and peace that sparked within my heart brought new vitality and vision. My perspective shifted: I could find joy even on the darkest of days.

To learn this truth, I had to give up my excuses. I needed to drop them completely. Was life challenging? Sure it was! But, that didn't mean that I had to be an emotional wreck. In fact, I began to see that the "story lines" of my life were fascinating. I observed myself in each circumstance. I found new power to become who I had always wanted to be. Life didn't need to change. I did.

Change begins within. There is no time like NOW for each of us to choose what we want to experience. Are you going to be focused on gratitude today or will you be down in the dumps? Will you feel the frantic fear that is rampant in our society or will you see that we are surrounded by the peace of nature? Your experience of life is dictated by your experience within.

I challenge each of us to look at the excuses we still hold -- to understand why it is we think that we must put off our happiness for a sunnier day. Why wait for a wonderful life? Instead, look within and see that you have the inner resources to create the wonder, joy and peace in this moment.

I write all this to myself as well as each of you reading. I need constant reminders that I am stronger, more remarkable and vibrant than I give myself credit for. I find this when I quiet my mind and connect with my brilliant spirit.

Take time this week to be silent. Listen to the peace all around you. Notice any conflict within. Ask the Universe to guide you towards beauty and joy. You are ready to experience more of this. This doesn't need to happen AFTER circumstances change. It can begin now.

With love, joy and peace,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

p.s. Exciting news -- I am going to have a weekly 5 - 7 minute spot on Nigerian National TV. You can check out some of the clips that will be airing by visiting www.youtube.com . Search by "Patricia Omoqui" and you can get a sneak peek of some wonderful topics that can inspire your heart.

Harness Your Power: Using Silence More

An insight that I gained this week is that silence is a powerful tool and it can be used in many ways, shapes and forms. Sitting in silence and meditating on a daily basis helps to calm the mind and connect to inner peace and wisdom. Silence can also be used more powerfully in our communication.

When we are in a conversation and don't know exactly how to respond, what do we often do? We talk and talk rather than just sitting quietly. Quiet moments feel awkward to us so we fill them with chit chat. What if instead we were simply quiet when we didn't have an answer to another person's accusation or question? Might it be possible that a few seconds of silence might allow for clarity and deep insight to emerge?

Many times as we express our truth to others we talk for long periods of time. Wouldn't it be more powerful if we expressed a need, want or opinion succinctly and then let a period of silence open up. Giving the other person in the conversation a moment to sit with what was just said and to gather their thoughts and give a response is a very powerful approach. Most of the time we will state our truth and then give a variety of reasons to support and defend what we are saying. More words actually create less power. A few words with silence following them creates a statement with deep impact.

Watch your patterns in communication this week. Notice how often you try to fill silent moments with words because of inner discomfort. Silent moments are beautiful and multi-dimensional. They are fantastic and significant once you get the hang of them.

I also am becoming aware of the power of silence in parenting. So often we react and give our children a piece of our minds. What if instead of lecturing we stated how we felt or what we wanted and then allowed for quiet? Or, what if as we saw a tantrum coming on, rather than trying to control it, we just sat quietly and watched it unfold before us. Silence in parenting can bring about dramatic shifts in dynamics.

I write all this because of my own new awareness. I share from my heart and give you ideas of ways that I am learning to approach situations. If your current approach isn't working, producing the peace, joy and hope you want to experience, why not try something new?

That's where I am at. I want to facilitate poignant, loving moments in all of my relationships.

May your week be filled with more silent moments and clarity,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Question Your Thoughts

I've been reminded this week of something I know so well but in challenging situations have to remind myself to practice: it is essential to question our thoughts! Our minds are often tyrants that send us into negative emotional spirals. Our old "fear and worry tapes" start playing in uncomfortable situations. The thoughts that arise (and that we buy into without questioning) can send us into mild discomfort and even deep depression.

This past week I observed myself following thought trails into deep personal suffering. I teach people a process called Harness Your Power which, in three simple steps, allows you to release old thoughts and beliefs and replace them with new, consciously chosen thoughts. I practice this process day in and day out. I'm good at it. Yet, when the deepest points of pain that remain inside me are touched, my mind still can get the most of me.

I'm thankful for the past few days where I've seen my mind do this frantic dance. I know the level of mastery and enlightenment I want to attain so I recognize the beauty of moving through pain to deeper levels of healing and growth.

The last 24 hours have shown me that when our pain bodies take over (read Eckhart Tolle's book, A New Earth) they can overtake us--unless, of course, we begin to observe and question them.

I was guided last night to http://www.oprah.com/ and watch a series of Webcasts she did with Byron Katie as part of her Soul Series. Byron Katie wrote an amazing book called Loving What Is. In her book she teaches four questions to use in challenging your thoughts. One of the questions that I find very helpful is, "Who would I be without this thought?" I use this question often and recognize that if I stopped the worry thoughts and guilty thoughts -- fully letting them go-- I can move back into a state of peace.

As we move through this week I encourage all of us to watch our thoughts. Notice the thoughts that cause you discomfort and pain. Then, ask yourself the above question. See that as you learn to release thoughts of suffering you can find peace right now.

Let's keep learning and growing together!

{On a sweet, beautiful note, my oldest daughter, Maggie was so excited this week as we attended her kindergarten orientation. She was bouncing with delight as we left the house. The smile on her face as she met her teachers, friends and saw her new classroom helped me to see the excitement available to us in life. Kids haven't forgotten the joy -- and they haven't gotten lost in fearful thinking...let's be more like them:) }

With deep love for each of you,

Patricia Omoqui

http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/