Summer, Spring, Winter, Fall…what is the purpose of them all? Have you ever looked at your life in comparison to the four seasons? We all have our favorite time and season. What's yours? It's pretty interesting how every season is symbolic of a different period in your life.

Some people like the summer because it's hot and that stimulates a time for engagement and fun. It's a great time; this is the season when everything is in bloom, all in life is well, and plans seem to come to fruition with ease. In fact, many people even use their summertime to vacation with their families, friends or loved ones to soak up these special times. Summertime, oh what a time.

Springtime…it's when the flowers and trees are in bloom. Just like our ideas—they, too, begin to sprout and take form. People even begin to take notice of all of the time and planning that went into the masterpiece you are forming. It's sort of like when the wind blows during the spring season; it sends beautiful fragrances from the flowers in the air for us all to enjoy. Everything appears new again and there is a presence of renewal in the air.

Winter…there is not a lot of noise, just rustling of the leaves and heavy winds. This is a time when one hibernates and retreats from all of the busyness around. It is a time of planning and keen introspection of past, present and future events. Sometimes, in the winter you may find your energy a bit on the murky side. A lot of that is because winter is preparation for your spring and summer months to come.

Fall…the once admired trees are beginning to lose their leaves. Fall is a time of transition; it is a time when things begin to come to a close. Just like in our lives when you have given something your best effort, yet you know it's time to move on.

It's pretty ironic how we can look to the seasons and see our lives in them. No matter what season you are in, or which you prefer, how can you prepare and experience a successful season all year round?

You must P.R.E.P. for it. Here are four ways:

P- Prioritize what is important. Focus on what is most important to you in your family and career life. Stop reacting to life, saying yes to everything, and spending time doing things or being around those who drain your energy. Keep your priorities at the forefront and, remember saying no is not a ‘bad' thing.

R- Recall what your success patterns are. Jot down three times in your life that you were most happy and successful. How was your state of being at that time? What things did you do to ignite your success and happiness? How did you get on top and stay on top during those times?

E- Engage in the attitude of gratitude. One quick and certain way to boost your energy level to an all-time high is to recall what you are grateful for. What are 10 things you are grateful for right now?

P- Practice positive self- talk daily. When you hear a negative talk creep in your mind about your ability or a particular situation, immediately counteract it with consistent and positive self-talk. Here's one example: “I am tired of struggling." One simple way to reverse that is to remind yourself that your struggle is an option. Say, “I choose to evaluate and learn from this situation, so I do not repeat it again." It might sound a bit cliché, but the reality is you are in that situation to learn something, and once you do learn from it, there is no need to repeat it. Practice moving on.

No matter what season you are in, or which you prefer, remember, preparation in all seasons makes for a successful transition. Each season, whether enjoyed or not, lasts for just a moment in time. And your time, my friend, is precious. Use it wisely and make this season you are in a worthwhile one.

If you have a question, are in a life or career transition, or simply would like to share your thoughts, email me at Natasha@visionmanifest.com Have a powerful and productive week!

© Copyright 2004 Natasha Haughton

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Natasha Haughton is an Inspirational Speaker, Workshop and Training Facilitator, Lifestyle and Business Coach. She is also author of the upcoming book Live Life by Your Design. Look her up at www.VisionManifest.com