Life Design

Workbook
 Creating the Adventure of Your Life
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part I: Welcome to the Adventure ...............................................................................p. 4
Introducing “The Power of Journey” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 6 Initiation . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 7
Threshold of Adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 8
The Power of Journey Worksheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 9
Life Satisfaction Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 11
Personal Mission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 14
Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 17
My Life Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 19
The Personal Mission Statement: Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 24
Part II: Digging Beneath the Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 25 Tests and
Trials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 26
The Power of Journey: Entering the Shadow Jungle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 27
The Power of Journey: Self-Limiting Beliefs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 28
The Power of Journey: Uncovering Self-Limiting Beliefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 29 Objectives of
Upcoming Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 32
Reflections on “Asking the Critical Question: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 33
Life Design by William Erwin
Words: Triggers for Transformation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 34
Creating the Adventure of Your Lifetime Third Feedback from Friends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 37
Edition Next Step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 38
Copyright © 2021 Life Design, Inc. Affirmations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 39
Winning the Lottery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 40
Asking the Critical Question . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 42
All rights reserved.
Triads and Your Support System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 43
Triad Exercise 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 46
This book contains material protected under International and Federal Copyright Laws and Treaties. Appendix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 51
Any unauthorized reprint or use of this material is prohibited. No part of this book may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any
Final Thoughts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 52
information and retrieval system without express written permission from the author, except for the brief Scaling the Cliffs of Desire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 53
quotation in a book review.
Doorways For Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 56
Temple of Discovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 57
Written by William Erwin. Illustration Creating the Adventure of Your Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 58
sources: www.pixabay.com

Fonts used: UTC Baskerville, Fave & Jeff.

 Creating the
Adventure of
Your Life

“There is only one success—to be able to

spend your life in your own way.”
~ Christopher Morley

-1-
IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER

I’d dare to make more mistakes next time. I’d relax. I would limber up. I
would be sillier than I have been this trip. I would take fewer things seriously.
I would take more chances. I would take more trip. I would climb more
mountains and swim more rivers. I would eat more ice cream and less beans.
I would perhaps have more actual troubles, but fewer imaginary ones. You see,
I’m one of those people who live sensibly and sanely hour after hour, day after
Identify Your Dreams,
day. Oh, I’ve had my moments. If I had it to do over again, I’d have more of Intentions, Mission, Values,
them. In fact, I’d try to have nothing else, just moments, one after another, Goals & Actions
instead of living so many years ahead of each day. I’ve been one of those
persons who never goes anywhere without a thermometer, a hot water bottle, a
raincoat, and a parachute. If I could do it again, I would travel lighter than
I have. If I had my life to live over, I would start barefoot earlier in the spring
and stay that way later in the fall. I would go to more dances. I would ride
more merry-go-rounds. I would pick more daisies.

~ Nadine Stair

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The journey you are about to begin focuses on how you plan to create your

own life. You’ll take a few moments and look forward to a life of your own

design. I wish you a journey filled with joy and fascinating experiences, a

fulfilling life, and, most significantly, a life of your own design!

“It is only in adventure that some people succeed

in knowing themselves — in finding themselves.”
“I am now creating the life I want to live!” What adventure could possibly be more exciting ~ Andre Gide
than creating the life you want? The LIFE DESIGN process is about doing precisely that.
Forged from the fires of life experience, LIFE DESIGN continues to be tested and
expanded. Welcome to the Adventure of Your Life.

Three Questions Guide Your Journey

By the conclusion of your Life Design, you will have answered the following questions
about your life:
 Where Is My Life Today?
 What Do I Want to Create?
 How Do I Move from “Here to There?”

Your Life Design Includes

When you’ve completed your Life Design, you’ll have your Personal Mission, Values, &
Goals. You’ll test your goals by examining Self-Limiting Beliefs, “Asking the Critical
Question,” completing “Triggers of Transformation.” You may rewrite your Goals (until they
seem exciting and inspiring) and then add the Action Steps through which you’ll implement
your Life Design.

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To open your heart and mind to inner possibilities, begin by exploring your own imagination.
On the next few pages, you’ll see an explanation of a Model called “The Power of Journey,”
examine the Model, and complete some quick thoughts on preparing for and leaving on the
early stages of the journey.
Reflecting on “The Power of Journey” facilitates an ability to look with “fresh eyes.” Hopefully,
you can allow yourself to imagine and utilize your creativity. Suspend your assumptions of
what you can and cannot do. Allow yourself some time simply to explore the possibilities.
Introduction to The Power of Journey
Mythologist, Joseph Campbell, identified through story and myth a pattern we follow as
our lives unfold. Before you begin your “journey,” take a few moments and reflect on the
model on the next page entitled: THE POWER OF JOURNEY. You will start at the top of
the circular path with DEPARTURE. Begin with the Call to Adventure (see the model on
the next page), then Helpers and Mentors. You will then proceed from there in a
counter clockwise direction.
George Lucas, creator of “Star Wars,” was a huge fan of Joseph Campbell and, as you
review the stages of the journey, you may be reminded of scenes from “Star Wars” films.
Example:
DEPARTURE
The Call to Adventure: Luke Skywalker longs to leave his isolated planet and join the
fight against the Empire.
Helpers & Mentors: Obi-Wan Kenobe shows up; Hans Solo and his Millennium
Falcon are enlisted (the Life Design exercises serve as Helpers)
Threshold-Crossing: Young Skywalker enters a strange bar with creatures from all
over the galaxy; he’s about to experience light speed and cross
into a new world
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INITIATION
Tests & Trials: Luke & his companions experience capture, stormtroopers trying to
kill them, attempts to get the plans for a dooms day weapon
downloaded in a droid and deliver those plans to the “good guys.”
Mentors & Helpers: New Helpers emerge in unique forms like a little green swamp
creature, Yoda.
Directions: On the following page, you’ll find “The Power of Journey” Model.
Take a moment, reflect on it, and then move on to the next page
where you’ll record some initial thoughts about your journey.
Suggestion: Write down your first thoughts and then move on; don’t spend a
lot of time trying to figure out the “right” answer. Once your
mind begins the process, other ideas will come. Record your first
thoughts and then move on to the next steps. (In Part I, you’ll only
record reflections on the first half of the journey.)
My initial thoughts on The Power of Journey are the start of growth and development.
Initially, I see Departure as a way of moving from the past to overcome the present
(Return – obstacles/barriers) to achieve better future results (Renewal). I think of this
Power of Journey as an opportunity to move from the ordinary to become extraordinary. I
don’t think anyone wants to stay the same. I know we crave change within ourselves at some
point, and to give ourselves that push (Initiation), we use the best of our abilities and
resources (the elements pictured in The Power of Journey) around us to achieve new change.
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 DEPARTURE: THE JOURNEY BEGINS
The Call to Adventure: Frequently in myth & story, the hero/heroine receives a call –
Departure Renewal it may be the Holy Grail appearing before the knights of the Round
Table challenging the knights to pursue the Grail. Or it might be
Joan of Arc being called to lead her army into battle.
How are you being called? What challenge reaches out to you and
Call to Adventure Elixir
calls out to you for a response?

Helpers and Mentors My calling is to live a content, healthy, and ever-changing life. I want to explore and make
new adventures outside of my bubble. I want to succeed, help others along the way, and
celebrate each other with gratitude. As people lend a helping hand, I intend to lend a helping
Threshhold-crossing Implementation hand, and it’ll become a cycle of love and care. I feel I have a calling to love myself and
spiritually heal my inner wounds from past experiences that have made me hesitate to move
forward and doubt my abilities. The challenges include conflicting interpersonal
relationships, limited information, and overcoming obstacles to achieve true happiness
within myself, my surrounding, and others.

Tests and Trials

Helpers & Mentors: Once you respond to the call Helpers & Mentors will appear.
Think of Obi Won Kenobe and Yoda as examples. People
Helpers and Mentors
Flight who have been “out there,” can advise you about your
journey, provide insight and guidance in your preparation.
Can you think of any Helpers & Mentors that might help you
respond to your “Call?” Identify the first names that come to
Initiation Breakthrough Return mind.

Enrique Nieto, Esther Nieto, Angel S., Lana Paton, Valerie Rodriguez, Israel P.

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 Your Next Step: Complete The Life Satisfaction Chart and establish a baseline of where you
are today.

Threshold Crossing: You now cross a Threshold, enter into the dark, the
unknown. It may be symbolized by a dark forest, an
unchartered sea, a dangerous jungle, or outer space. It may be
reflected in a new job, the loss of a job, a marriage, a
divorce, a baby, retirement or …? The threshold may be
guarded by an ogre that doesn’t want you to pass. What
is the unknown into which you must cross? Danger and
adventure await. Beware! Be Aware! Proceed.
The past jobs I held did not make me happy, and I thought that changing jobs would help
me feel better in a new environment, but there has always been an enormous judgment
about where I’m at and what I’m doing in the workplace didn’t make me satisfied. I felt I
was not supposed to be there and hadn’t found my passion for work and preferences in a
job. Another threshold is my breakup. I felt I lost a huge part of myself by having to move
on because the relationship did not work, and I felt out of place for not being able to save
my relationship.
Tests and Trials: I’m afraid so. The journey is not without challenges.
Obstacles appear. Roadblocks force us to detour. The journey is
not a vacation but has its tests along the way. Why is your
friend discouraging you? Will you give up? Do you question your
Call? Or is another door opening?
Reflect on possible tests and trials or return later when you
encounter a test or trial.
THE LIFE SATISFACTION CHART
One of your goals is to identify the level of joy and happiness in your life today. This Life
Satisfaction Chart will help you evaluate your level of satisfaction/dissatisfaction with 19 life
areas. This chart provides you a starting point for your adventure.
1 = Very dissatisfied
2 = Dissatisfied
3 = Acceptable
4 = Satisfied
5 = Life as I want it
DIRECTIONS: Write today’s date beneath DATE (Today). You will only work under the
column marked DATE (Today). As you review each LIFE AREA, you’ll circle one number,
either a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 depending on how satisfied or dissatisfied you are with that aspect of
your life. Circle one number under the DATE (Today) column for each of the LIFE
AREAS. The meaning of each number is identified above. For example,
if you are completely satisfied with how much your exercise, circle a 5. If completely
dissatisfied, circle a 1. You can come back in 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to see how
you’re progressing.
Complete the Life Satisfaction Chart and move on to the next path on your journey, The
Personal Mission Statement.

There is another door opening. I felt resentment toward certain people but learned that holding onto anger and guilt would not help me move forward. I learned that hating would do more harm than good, so I
knew that letting go of the past is the door to the future.

Helpers & Mentors: Look around you. Are there Helpers or Mentors who may
serve as guides? Is there help you’re ignoring?
Yes, my friend Joseph. He is a helper that I ignore at times.

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LIFE AREAS DATE DATE DATE DATE
July 5, 2022 (3 Months Later) (6 Months Later) (1 Year Later)
Physical Health
a. Exercise 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
b. Diet 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 “Your vision will become clear only when you can
look into your own heart. Who looks outside,
Work/Career 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 6 1 2 3 4 5
Relationships dreams; who looks inside, awakens.”
b. Parents 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
c. Children 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 ~ Carl Jung
d. Friendships 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
e. Primary/Spouse 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
f. Co-Workers 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
g. Brothers/Sisters 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Education/Learning 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Living Environments
a. Geographical Location 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
b. Home Environment 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Spiritual Health 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Emotional Health
a. Self-Esteem 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
b. Optimism 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
c. Ability to Feel 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5
d. Self Caretaking 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Leisure Time/ Hobbies 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

Finances 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5

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 D. If you achieved, beyond your wildest dreams, all 3 accomplishments, what 3 results would
Personal Mission Statement you see? (Examples: diploma in your hand, dream job, happy kids, sitting by a river)
Before setting off on an adventure, get clear about your mission. No journey brings much joy
1. Have a car and travel where I’d like
if it’s out of alignment with your purpose or mission. Answer the following questions with the
first impressions that come to mind.
2. Receive bachelor’s degree/diploma as my family and friends cheer me on
A. What are 3 of your best qualities? Examples: intelligence, determination, kindness,
enthusiasm, friendliness, creativity, toughness, loyalty, curiosity) 3. Be aware that my son learned to master certain skills that will benefit him and to become
more independent
1. Kindness

2. Curiosity E. If you achieved all 3 accomplishments, what 3 feelings best describe how you would
feel? (Examples: powerful, happy, fulfilled, proud, joyful, astounded, secure, successful,
3. Determination elated)

1. Powerful
B. What 3 words, in your opinion, best describe the most important things you do?
(Examples: create, parent, love, challenge, employ, supervise, counsel, nurture, heal) 2. Proud

1. Parent 3. Joyful

2. Love

3. Heal

A. What are the 3 most important accomplishments you could achieve over the next 6
to 12 months? (Examples: graduate from school, spend 30 minutes a day in quiet
reflection, make good grades, teach children, get a good paying job, spend quality time with
my kids)

1. Get my driver’s license

2. Graduate from ASU

3. Teaching my toddler to potty train and talk and other necessary developmental skills

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PERSONAL MISSION STATEMENT Values
Next Step: Transfer the information you collected on the previous page to the appropriate What is important to you? What values guide your life? What beliefs inform your behavior?
spaces below. Consider how you spend your time and money; your review provides helpful clues that help
you identify what you value. Compare what you “say” you value and how you actually spend
My personal mission is to use my (3 qualities from A. 1, 2, 3) Kindness , your time and money – the process provides a “reality check.” Are the words you speak in
alignment with what you are doing?
Curiosity and Determination to
Below is a random list of commonly held values. The list provides examples, but you can
(3 most important things I do from B. 1, 2, 3) Parent , choose from the list or choose your own words. Take a few moments and identify what
Love , and Heal is important in your life. Journey across the “Bridge of Values” and write down your 10 most
important values. Remember, these values form the foundation upon which you walk
so that I can (3 most important accomplishments from C. 1, 2, 3) through life. Choose each step carefully.
Get my driver’s license , Graduate from ASU , and Teach my son

 Recognition (respect from others)  Economic Security (steady,

skills .
adequate income)
 Spiritual Growth/Religious Beliefs
Having achieved my 3 most important accomplishments (D. 1, 2, 3), the results I see are  health (physical and mental well being)
 helpfulness (to others, improving society)
Have a car and travel where I’d like ,  cooperation/Teamwork
 wealth (making lots of money)
Receive my bachelor’s degree/diploma ,  loyalty
 peacefulness (nirvana, inner harmony)
and See my son master skills and become independent .  integrity/Honesty
 power (authority,
I feel (3 accomplishments from E. 1, 2, 3) Powerful , control, directing others)  competition
Proud ,  achievement (reaching established goals)  education/Wisdom
and Joyful  pleasure (laughter, having fun, leisure)  friendship
about my accomplishments.  stability, Order
 love (bonding, affection, caring)
 achievement (accomplishment, mastery)  fame
 creativity
“If you always do what you always did, then you’ll  promotion (advancing, making progress)
 adventure (new and  family Happiness
always get what you always got!” challenging experiences)  self-Pride
 freedom (independence, autonomy)
~ Moms Mabley

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List your ten most important values.

1. Family Happiness 6. Education/Wisdom Now you are ready to begin planning your LIFE DESIGN. As is true of any adventure, the
planning is part of the fun.
2. Health 7. Love
The Planning Process
3. Stability, Order 8. Achievement
The Planning Process used today moves from the GENERAL to the SPECIFIC.

4. Economic Security 9. Adventure

5. Integrity/Honesty
The Three Steps Include:
10. Peacefulness Step A. On line 1 and 2 below, write the two Life Areas you want to work with
today. (You may want to refer back to your Life Satisfaction Chart)
Step B. Identify 2-4 general goals for each Life Area.
Step C. Identify specific action steps for each goal. The action steps will answer
questions: When? What? Where? How much does it cost? Who will join me?
(Complete Step C, Part II of Life Design in Module 6.)
Remember to keep referring to your Mission Statement and Values. Goals need to mirror
what is critical and important in your life. Remember also that you are on the adventure of
your own life, an adventure which can be filled with purpose, excitement, and new
experiences. If you plan what you’ve always planned, you’ll only experience what you’ve
always experienced. How can you do it in your own fresh, unique way?

Planning Process Step A. Write your top priority Life Area on Line 1. Select a second Life
Area and write it on Line 2. In selecting Life Areas, ask yourself: “What is most important
and most urgent for my attention today?”

1. Relationships

2. PhysicalHealth

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Planning Process Step B. Identify, on the next two pages, 2-4 general goals for each of
your two Life Areas. Goals are very general. Action Steps come later (in Part II of Life
Design) and will list the actions you will take to achieve your goals. Here are some examples
of Goals for different Life Areas.
Life Area: Self Caretaking
Goal: Research and identify ways to have more time for myself.
LIFE AREA ONE: Relationships
Goal 1:
Improve communication skills: Active listening, withhold judgement, reflect on
the discussion, check on body language, avoid distractions, repeat/summarize,
and give feedback. Overall, to show that I’m listening in a genuine manner that
characterizes respect.

Goal: Identify and plan daily, monthly, annual activities for renewal rest and fun.

Goal: Implement alone time and renewal/rest/fun time activities.

Life Area: Education/Career

Goal: I successfully complete my course of study.

Goal 2:
Goal: My study habits and class attendance form the basis of success in school and
my work.
Spend quality time: establish a flexible schedule that works for me and the other
Goal: Interview potential mentors for support in my career development. person(s), take turns on choosing what activities/outings/downtime with the
other person(s), stick with the time commitments, try new things, keep
Goal: I form a study group that helps all of us graduate on schedule and with honors. distractions away (like phones), and have meaningful fun conversations (asides
from work/school).
Life Area: Children

Goal: Identify resources (Classes, Books, Counselors) to help me improve my

parenting and myself.

Goal: Create family discussions to identify ways for spending time together as
a family. Goal 3:

Goal: Create time where I listen to what is happening in my children’s lives. Express love and support: show appreciation and gratitude, work on conflict and
show that I want to work on the problem and create solutions, share important
life aspects, and hear others out on their life milestones, help others with their
emotional well-being, remind each other about values, accept mistakes are made
and can be forgiven (vice versa).

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 Goal 4:

Utilize healthy/gentle approaches: Don’t yell, walk away if the conflict is too heated, and respect boundaries.
Give each other space, emphasize individuality, and be mindful things don’t always go as planned but problems are solvable with time, effort, and patience.

Goal 4:

Spiritual Renewal: Pray, meditate, be in touch with nature, write in journal, have a safe space.

LIFE AREA TWO: Physical Health

Goal 1:

Get enough rest: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep daily, take more time for relaxation throughout the day, do recreational time for my mind to unwind.

“May the outward and inward man be at one.”

Goal 2:
~ Socrates
Do
physical
activity:
Get 30-60
minutes of
physical
exercise
every day
or every
other day.

Goal 3:

Eat healthy food: plant-based, whole-grains, healthy fats, stay away from high-fructose syrup/sugary foods. Stick with a routine food diet and keep away from fast-food and junkfood.

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The Personal Mission Statement: EXAMPLE
If you’ve ever worked on developing a mission statement then you know it can be a
tedious, lengthy process. However, you can create your own first draft of a Personal
Mission Statement within the next few minutes. On the following page, you record three
responses for each of five Prompts. Once you’ve completed that page, you simply transfer
each of the three responses to the appropriate lines on the second page.
Example:
Question: What are 3 of your best qualities?
Potential Answer: Creativity, kindness, and perseverance
You transfer the words “Creativity, kindness, and perseverance” to the next page where it
will read:
My personal mission is to use my (3 qualities from A. 1, 2, 3) “creativity, kindness, and
perseverance” to , , and . You
continue transferring the words from the B. 1, 2, and 3 and so on until you have filled in all
the blanks.
Your Personal Mission Statement will read something like this, for example:
My personal mission is to use my creativity, kindness, and perseverance to manage
employees, paint paintings, and love my family so that I can help my team and
company succeed, find satisfaction in my artistic expression, and experience a
loving family. Having achieved my 3 most important accomplishments, the results I see
are current employees being promoted and the company more profitable, my
paintings hanging in homes of people who enjoy them and laughing children and
grandchildren on the beach with me and my spouse. I feel successful, fulfilled,
and joyful about my accomplishments.
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Exploring For Gold at a Deeper Level
Part I required some reflection leading to the foundation that is your core -- your
mission, values, goals and actions. In Part II, the invitation is for you to go
“deeper.” What does “going deeper” mean? Why do you want to go deeper?
What mental habits have you formed of which you are unaware? Over the years
we have all developed “habits” which take the form of mental models and/or self-
limiting beliefs. These models and beliefs are so much a part of us that they are
difficult to notice or address or change. In Part II, you focus on uncovering some
of those models and self-limiting beliefs. As you identify them, you can ask
yourself various questions:
 Does that self-limiting belief still serve you or is it time to revise it or even eliminate it?
 How can I uncover a symbol for what I think I want, go deeper, and uncover what I
genuinely want? My words, thoughts, and beliefs may contain clues or symbols that will
help me uncover self-limiting beliefs.
 How does observing my language, the words flowing from my mouth, provide clues for a
deeper understanding of obstacles in my path forward?
 What other areas of life might you explore that will open doors to expanded adventures?
The exercises that follow in Part II are designed to help you “sneak up on” those
models and beliefs. They are yours and only you can decide whether or not they
still serve you or need to be changed.
So what is “going deeper?” Going deeper involves taking the time to enter the
Shadow Jungle, that area of darkness we avoid. Increasing our self-awareness
(one of the areas of emotional intelligence we can improve), can open doors to
new insights and help us be more intentional in our lives.
Why do we want to “go deeper?” When we go deeper, we discover and uncover
areas that impede our abilities to create the lives we want to live.
I wish you well as you continue the adventure of your life, enter the Shadow Jungle,
and
emerge with new and valuable
-25-
insights.

Tests and Trials
“Here! This is what I want to create in my life.” Once you speak these words out
loud, the next thoughts that enter your mind are all the obstacles you will
encounter, all the reasons you cannot have what you want.
Obstacles: Walls - Adversities - Complications - MAZES - Barricades. A variety
of words can be used to describe what happens when you describe what you
want. No matter what word you use, the Obstacles tend to show up in two forms.
They arrive in the form of Space Dragons or Ego Demons.
Space Dragons
Space dragons fall out of the sky. They are unexpected, unplanned, unwanted
events. They seem to have no purpose other than to disrupt, create havoc, pain,
and delay.
Ego Demons
Ego Demons are internal, self-inflicted disruptions which pull us or lure us off the
path of our design. Space Dragons “happen” to us. We “choose” our own Ego
Demons.
You are about to complete several exercises to help you identify, learn from,
and begin to work with Obstacles to your Life Design. Before venturing into the
Caves of Self Deception or the Shadow Jungle, equip yourself with the
following:
1. Move forward from a position of power and center.
2. Identify, without judgment, your Space Dragons and Ego Demons.
3. Learn from your Space Dragons and Ego Demons.
4. Choose carefully the changes you want to make.
-26-
As your journey proceeds, you may be experiencing some stirring of the imagination. Ideas
are fermenting and in transition. Questions are arising. You may even be questioning some
of the work you’ve already completed. If so, feel free to amend and revise or even start over.
Allow your thinking to develop. The best part of this process is that it all comes from you.
You’ve created a Mission Statement, identified Values, and written out Goals. Before you
go too much further, you’ll pause, and examine what you’ve already completed.
Before you proceed, you’ll want to examine any limitations that you may be placing on
yourself. To do that, (and keeping with the theme of adventure) you’ll complete a few
simple exercises. You’ll enter The Shadow Jungle and, after completing these exercises,
you’ll have an opportunity either to move forward with the Goals you wrote or re-write
them.
The Exercises you’ll complete include:
 Self-Limiting Beliefs
 Identify Your Safari Crew
 “Win the Lottery” or “Asking the Critical Question”
 “Triggers for Transformation”
 “Feedback From Friends”
Once you’ve completed those exercises, you’ll then finalize your Goals and add Action Steps
for each Goal.
Entering the Shadow Jungle
Every life moves through the Shadow Jungle on its journey-not once, but many times. Within
it, you will encounter the dreaded scourge of all life’s adventures. With the pungent smell of
plant decay filling your nostrils, you will hack your way through the dense foliage of the near
impenetrable jungle mass, only to be attacked at the most inappropriate moment by:
-27-
 “Whoever authors your story authorizes
your actions. We gain personal authority and power
“Name your limits and they’re yours.”
in the measure that we question the myth that is
~ Richard Bach upheld by ‘the authorities’ and discover and create
personal myths that illuminate and inform us.”
On life’s journey, we travel loaded down with beliefs from years gone by. Our caravan packs
the remnants of past experience ... ~ Sam Keen
As we uncover beliefs and dust them off for a closer look, our goal will be:
 to honor and reaffirm beliefs that still serve us;
 to update earlier beliefs to the level of our current maturity; or,

 to let go of self-limiting beliefs and replace them with life-affirming beliefs. In India, baby elephants are chained to
stakes from which they cannot break loose.
Struggle as they may, they learn at an early
age they cannot escape, so they quit trying.
When the elephants grow to maturity, the
trainer ties the elephant to the stake with a
flimsy rope. The elephant could break loose if
it tried, but it doesn’t even try. The belief from
earlier times limits what the elephant can do.

Uncovering Self-Limiting Beliefs

You may call self limiting beliefs something else-conditions, circumstances beyond
your control or “just the way I was raised.” Whatever name you give the belief or
behavior, your goal is to uncover it (them) and free you from these self imposed
limitations. The following seventeen questions may help you sneak up on some of
those beliefs. Not every answer will represent a self limiting belief. However, your
spontaneous response may provide some clues.

-28- -29-
 9. If only I could be stronger, optimistic, and confident my life would be better.
1. The main reason I will fail to achieve my Goals for Life Area #1 is: Fixed Mindset

10.It’s not my fault that

.

2. I could achieve all my Goals in Life Area #1 if it were not for (person, or circumstance, or belief): Other people can’t see the good person I am and how much time, effort, and energy or I like to say pour
my soul into people who are blind to goodness.

Certain people who are stuck in their old ways and drag me through .
the mud with them.
11.Some ways I sabotage my own success are: giving up easily, overthinking every detail, being too dependent,
3. If I fail to achieve my Goals, I will prove that I was right about: fixated on the past, react negatively to many instances, and talk bad about myself.

Being inconsistent and selfish. .

12.Before I can proceed with my Goals, I need the approval of myself .

13.Skills that I lack and need to have to achieve my Goals are: Emotional intelligence, patience,
. empathy, and persistence.

4. The one thing I don’t ever want to hear anyone say about me again is:

That I’m useless, an emotional wreck, and be a “last option”

14.I need to learn to love myself
before I can successfully achieve my Vision.

. 15. I can still hear my Father’s voice demanding that I: D o b e t t e r i n s c h o o l a n d f i n a n c e s

5. One thing I do not like about myself is: That I can revert back to old habits

16. I still hear my Mother insisting that I : G r o w u p a n d a c t c o n s e r v a t i v e

6. One thing I refuse to accept about myself is: That I’m emotionally broken .

. 17.Money (the lack of it) may be an obstacle to achieving my goals. I have listed below how the lack of
money will keep me from implementation of my LIFE DESIGN.
7. If only I could have more beauty, intelligence, a perfect body, more money my life would be better.
• Not being able to afford to go to places I’d like to go out with family & friends for free time
8. I blame myself for n o t b e i n g t h e w a y I s h o u l d
.
• Not being able to get gifts for the people I love and would want to see happy
which would make me happy

• Not be able to provide certain things for my son that he wants and desires
-30- -31-
The Objectives of Upcoming Exercises Reflections on “Asking the Critical Question”
1) WORDS: Triggers for Transformation Perhaps you can already anticipate the results of the Reflection process from
“Asking the Critical Question.” To help you with your reflections, here’s a story
Objective: Identify “Victim Language” that may be a part of your vocabulary. from my experiences mediating conflict. I learned, in that process, how human
What thoughts and beliefs lie behind the words? beings speak in clues and symbols.
2) AFFIRMATIONS The items you wrote down for “Winning the Lottery” are typically clues and
symbols for what you really want. You weren’t lying. What you wrote down is
Objective: To substitute “Victim Language” with “Power Language” that
symbolic of what you want. I’ll use a simple story:
supports the life you want to live.
Johnny Smith is 16 years old. If you ask him what he wants more than anything,
3) WINNING THE LOTTERY
it’s a red Ferrari. He dreams of it, talks about it, and longingly stares at the
Objective: Discover what you really want? Get behind the symbols of what you poster in his bedroom. Let’s give him what he wants and ask him the “Critical
say you want to what you really want. Question.”

4) ASKING THE CRITICAL QUESTION “Johnny, what will be true after you get the red Ferrari that isn’t true now?”

Objective: Take the results of “Winning the Lottery” and explore how these
results provide clues or symbols for what you truly want.
5) TRIADS AND YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM
Objective: Identify people who can help support you and challenge you to
implement the change you want.
Johnny answers: “Well, if I drive up in front of school driving that car, everyone
will notice me. No one even knows my name now, but, will they ever then! I’ll
bet the girls will finally pay attention to me . . . and I’ll bet Becky Jones will go
out on a date with me if I had a red Ferrari.”
What Johnny really wants is 1) to be noticed, 2) to have girls pay attention to him,
and
3) a date with Becky Jones. What he talks about is a red Ferrari which
symbolizes what he really wants.
You may think, “No, he really wants a red Ferrari.”
No, he doesn’t. Just picture Johnny on a desert island with a red Ferrari and
no one to see him.
I understand it takes some willingness and effort to examine one’s self and gain
insight, but the insights can be valuable and even life altering. I simply suggest
you spend a few moments reflecting on the items you wrote from “Winning the
Lottery” and what you wrote after “Asking the Critical Question,” and see what
comes up. Here’s the good news -- usually
what you really want, you can do something about today. You don’t have to wait
to “Win the Lottery.”
If you have additional questions about this process, be sure to send them to me.

-32- -33-
 “The last of the human freedoms–
Triggers for Transformation
to choose one’s attitude in any given circumstance,
How do we not only move forward creating what we want, but also face, transform, grow and
change as we encounter our Space Dragons and Ego Demons? One additional way is to pay to choose one’s own way.”
attention to our language because words are “Triggers for Transformation”.
~ Victor Frankl
The Mirage of Non-Choice
Our use of words can be a subtle way to convince ourselves that we have no choices.
Words reflect a thought

Thoughts reflect a belief

Belief reflects victimization/empowerment

How do you work with Triggers for Transformation?
Choose language supportive of desired results, not language which degenerates in victim
mentality. Primarily, you must raise your awareness of your use of language. To practice, do the
following. Create a sentence that flows naturally from your mouth and then replace it with
Victim Language Power Language
a different sentence. For example:
I can’t I can
“I can’t handle conflict.” “I can handle conflict.”
I’m not I am able to
I’m not worthy I I am worthy Changing the language you use activates the thought behind the words and then activates the
belief behind the thought. So complete one sentence with the “Victim Language” and then
don’t deserve I I deserve
replace it with “Power Language.”
should, ought I I want
I can’t I can
wish I want
I don’t I know I can’t finish this job it’s too difficult
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I’ll try I’m now doing I can finish this task it’s challenging but it’s worth completing if I’m this far

I’m not I’m able to

I’m not strong enough
Beware of comparative words such as “better” and “best”.
I’m able to overcome this hardship
To whom you are comparing yourself? No one can be a better you than you!

-34- -35-
 I’m not worthy
I’m not worthy of love / I am worthy
of love and everything above
I don’t deserve
I don’t deserve happiness/ I do
deserve happiness and life filled
with peace
I should
I should work harder/ I want to
work smarter
I wish
I wish I was more pretty/ I want to
be confident and secure of myself
I don’t know
I don’t know how to move on/ I do
know how to move forward
I’ll try HARDER
Notice how you feel when you change the language you’re using.
-36-
I am worthy FEEDBACK FROM FRIENDS
This exercise accomplishes two goals. On the one hand, it can help you refine your Goals.
The other factor is this process can help you implement your Life Design. When facilitating
this material with a group, one of the most powerful exercises is having three people go off by
themselves and take turns asking each other questions. One person has their goals in their
I do deserve lap, one person asks questions and listens to the answers, and the third person watches the
non-verbal language as the first person answers the questions. This exercise is a variation
on that process.
Why is it important? It’s one thing to write down your goals; a more powerful step is to have
someone ask you questions about your goals. The questioning takes matters to a whole new
level, both during planning and the implementation phases.
Approach one or more people you trust – friend, spouse, parent, other family members -- give
I want them a set of questions to ask you while you think about your goals. (You don’t need to tell
them the Life Areas or the goals you’re working on. You simply need to answer their
questions and pay attention to your answers.
Here are the Questions as asked by the participant you invite:
I want  Picture achieving your goals. Do you feel any joy or excitement? If not, then why have you
chosen these goals?
 Is your intention clear? What is the change going to accomplish? What will happen in
your life as a result of these goals being implemented?
I do know  Are your goals in alignment with your mission statement (purpose) and your values?
 Are you committed to your goals? Have you prepared for the obstacles you may
encounter? Are you willing to do what needs to be done?
 Are you willing to think the thoughts, speak the words, and do the deeds needed to
I’m now doing change?
the best I can  Are you gathering support from other people in your change process (conspiracy or
breathing together)? If not, why not? Have you dealt with potential sabotage?
-37-
Next Step
You’ve completed a number of exercises that may have raised questions in your mind about
your Goals. Are the Goals you originally wrote the ones you want to keep? Do you want to
rewrite the Goals? Can you make the Goals more powerful? More joyful? More likely to be
completed?
Affirmations represent the power of choice. You choose the words which support
the change you want. You choose specific “triggers” for the transformation of you
own design.

It’s your choice because it’s your Life Design. You are the hero/heroine of your journey. How
do you want it to proceed? Guidelines for Affirmations
Affirmations need to be:
Space for additional notes/drawings
 Positive

Identify what you want, not what you don’t want.

 Personal

Use the first person, “I”.

 Present Tense

Do not write that “I will” do something. Write in the present tense as if you are
starting at this moment and it is already happening.
 Powerful

Put it in powerful language. Don’t sound hesitant or wishy-washy.

Positive Personal Present Tense Powerful

That’s an
affirmation.
Examples:
I am experiencing tremendous joy and satisfaction when I read to my child in
the evening. I feel excitement as I approach my work with renewed enthusiasm
and fresh ideas.

-38- -39-
 $$ Winning the Lottery $$
You have just won $20,000,000 tax free. It has been presented to you in one lump sum. Outline what you
will do with the money. (Most of us have fantasized about winning the lottery; play along for a few minutes
and write down 3 – 5 ways you would spend the money).

ONE: Pay off all my immediate family members debts (parents, siblings)

TWO: Buy homes/properties

THREE: Invest in stock and real estate

FOUR: Keep a large sum of the money for my son’s future

FIVE: Give back for those in need (people, animals, environment, charities, non-profits, etc.)

SIX: Buy, build, expand for my own business/organization

You’ll use the items you’ve listed above as you move to the next Exercise, “Asking
the Critical Question.”

“Two roads diverged in a wood and I took

the road less traveled by and that has made
all the difference.”
~ Robert Frost

-40- -41-
 Asking the Critical Question
Have you found it difficult to think in terms of what you want to create? Most
people do have some difficulty since they received little encouragement to think
that way. It can be dubbed as “selfish, “or “egocentric,” or “thoughtless,” etc.
Nevertheless, the heroic journey begins in the arena of your deepest wants.
When you dare to identify those wants, you may discover yet another challenge.
NEW CHALLENGE: Sometimes the “want” you identify is not the “true want.” It
is a symbol or a clue to help you find what you genuinely want. That brings us to
“Asking the Critical Question.” (Think of yourself as Sherlock Holmes or Hercule
Poirot). You have received several clues in the “wants” you listed by winning the
lottery. However, you will not be satisfied until you have uncovered the deeper
truth. You use the “Asking the Critical Question” process and uncover new
information leading to what you really want.
The Critical Question: What will be true of your life after you
get what you want that is not true today?
Frequently, you must keep exploring. The genuine want may pop right out, but
then again, it may not. Keep digging until you know you have hit the “target. How
will you know when you uncover the genuine item? You will know.
Critical Question Exercise:
Take your list from “Winning the Lottery” and identify the result for each item. What will be true after you
get what you want that is not true today? Write the change that will take place for each item.
For one, my families worries will be gone and they will be able to enjoy their lives more stress free. For two, I
would have more than one home to provide not only for myself but for others that are in need specifically for
my family because you never know what may happen and having a safe place or shelter for them is my concern.
For three, investing the money into stock/real estate will benefit me to have continuous money so that I have a
backup plan. More importantly, money saved for my child and his future. For four, I would save a huge chunk of
money for my son as a will but also for his importance. He may want to invest or do something with his life, and
I know by saving money for him it would help him get to where he needs to be more effectively.
For number five, I know that I would be helping save others life by giving funds to those in need.
Lastly for number six, I have a dream organization and expanding it will help those in education.
-42-
“If one is out of touch with oneself, then one
cannot touch others... only when one is connected
to one’s own inner core is one connected
to others.”
~ Anne Morrow Lindbergh
Gift from the Sea
Triads and Your Support System
When you look at people who successfully change their lives, you frequently find
a common ingredient-other people. Yes, you are responsible for your own life,
and, yes, you will do the work yourself. But, no, you do not have to do it alone. In
fact, we believe you will experience much greater success by working with others
who will be supportive of your goals.
The possibilities are many; we mention a few:
(a)Family and Friends. Let’s not overlook the obvious. You may even want to
work through a LIFE DESIGN with the person who represents your primary
relationship. It’s not a bad idea-in fact, it’s a good idea-to enlist the support of
your children in some of your goals. Share your Mission Statement. Share
what your goals are in life. People like feeling needed. If you have family or
friends who do not support you, then that is a different discussion.
(b) Triads. Forming a Triad is a very powerful process. A Triad is a group of three
people who meet once a week to support each other in their life goals. Triad
members:
1. Meet once a week.
2. Meet for 15 - 30 minutes.
3. Have each participant mention one goal, progress made, successes
achieved, detours encountered.
4. Have each participant offer guidance, advice, reminders, support,
-43-
 and/or cheers to the others.

-42- -43-
Triads and Your Support System (continued)
(c) Board of Directors. Consider creating a Board of Directors for your life,
people with whom you could share your goals and meet with occasionally for
advice and support.
Triads are a powerful tool. You are a powerful person when you create the life you
want. Your power is dramatically increased when you are connected to others.

“You are never given a wish without also being

given the power to make it true. You may have to
work at it, however.”
~ Richard Bach

-44- -45-
 4. Others who will support me along my journey include:

a. Professional/Career (mentors, co-workers) My sister Samantha and my friend Lana

Safari (Sailing, Caravan) Crew b. Spiritual health M y f r i e n d L a n a

Whether your journey is through jungles, caves, deserts, or across oceans or into c. Education M y p a r e n t s a n d a f a m i l y - f r i e n d J a m i e , s c h o o l s t a f f / t e a c h e r s
outer space, your sense of accomplishment rises with your willingness to
d. Emotional health My friend Lana, my cousin Valerie, and my family
surround yourself with people who support your Vision for Your Life.
In identifying potential crew members, ask your self these questions: Is there
mutual respect? Are they available? Is it easy to get together a few minutes each
Do You Need to Revise Your Life Design?
week? List below potential Triad members: Now that you’ve completed several exercises, did you discover anything that may
1. Potential Triad Members result in a change to your Life Design? If so, you’ll have an opportunity to revise
your Life Design in some following pages. Questions that may result in changes
a. Esther my mother include:
 Are you focused on the Life Areas that are most important at this time?
b. Israel a long-time friend
 Do some (or all) of your Goals need revision?
c. Joseph a distant friend
 Can you identify any new Action Steps that will help you implement your Life
2. Family Support Design?

a. One way I can receive support from my spouse is I don’t have a spouse, but I would like to receive Two pages follow where you can, if needed, rework your Goals and Action Steps.
emotional support.

Other ways:

Have engaging conversations, work on projects together, and have time to reflect on life.

3. Baggage Bearers

A special friend (or friends) whom I can trust to share my journey (including my fears around the excess
baggage I’m carrying) is Lana Paton

-46- -47-
PLANNING PROCESS Step C: Goals & Add Action
• Share important life aspects and hear others out on their life milestones
Steps Life Area #1:Relationships
• Help others with their emotional well-being and remind each other about values
Goal: Improve communication skills
Action Steps • Accept mistakes are made and can be forgiven (vice versa)

• Active Listening, repeat summarize

Goal: Utilize healthy/gentle approaches
Action Steps
• Withhold Judgement, give feedback
• Don’t yell or use harsh words, negative confrontation
• Reflect on the discussion, show that I’m listening in a genuine manner

• Check on body language, show/characterize respect • Walk away if the conflict is too intense, take a breather and come back composed

• Avoid distractions, stay on task • Respect boundaries

Goal: Spend quality time
• Give space when needed and emphasize individuality
Action Steps
• Be mindful things don’t always go as planned but problems are solvable with positive steps
• Establish a flexible schedule that works for me and the other person(s)

• Take turns on choosing what activities/outings/downtime with the other person(s) PLANNING PROCESS Step C: Goals & Add Action
Steps Life Area #2:Physical Health
• Stick with the time commitments
Goal: G e t e n o u g h r e s t
• Try new things and keep distractions away like phones/technology
Action Steps
• Have meaningful fun conversations
• Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily
Goal: Express love and support
• Take more time for relaxation
Action Steps
• Rest when tired and sleep when I’m done
• Show appreciation and gratitude
• Do recreational time for my mind to unwind
• Work on conflict management
• Nap if necessary

-48- -49-
Goal: D o p h y s i c a l a c t i v i t y Goal: S p i r i t u a l R e n e w a l

Action Steps Action Steps

• Get 30 to 60 minutes of physical exercise every day • Pray every day (morning and night)

• Make a schedule for work out days • Meditate every morning

• Stretch and take daily walks • Be in touch with nature, go outside and sit in the grass under the trees (tech-free)

• Do strength work outs • Write in a journal, write down dreams and stories

• Make workouts FUN and switch up routines • Have a safe space to unload emotional baggage, positively encourage myself to let go of the bad,
therapy, counseling
Goal: Eat healthy food
Action Steps
APPENDIX
• Plant-based food The Appendix includes some additional exercises that can be useful in the creation of your
Life Design. They are NOT REQUIRED, but they are available should you want to use
• Whole-grain food them.

• Eat healthy fats They include:

Scaling the Cliffs of Desire
• Stay away from sugary sweets, keep away from fast-food, eliminate junk food
Doorways to Change
• Have a routine food diet and buy a cookbook to make fun healthy choices
Temple of Discovery

-50- -51-
FINAL THOUGHTS Scaling the Cliffs of Desire
Life Design is not a one-time process but a process you can revisit as often as
Change… The “four letter word” that requires six letters. Our tendency is to avoid, deny, or
you like.
resist change. However, escaping the Falls of Destruction requires scaling the Cliffs of Desire,
The word “final,” therefore, only refers to some “final thoughts” for this phase of i.e. requires us to change. Our motivation may come from the dear of pain or the power of the
your Life Design . pleasure we received when we create the life we want. No matter what the motivation, we
need to review how we move through change and some of the experience s we can expect.
The following pages include some pages design ed to consider some ideas
including the challenges you may face as you implement the life you want to live
as well as some possible “doorways” for change you may not have yet
considered.
Also, included is a modified page which allows you to capture your core and
goals and action

steps on one page. The Steps of Effortles

Available for Your Change s Habit
Creates Energy
Skill
Review:
Practic
 Scaling the Cliffs of Desire e

 Doorways for Change

Tryout
 A one-page, modified version of your Life Design for easy reference.

Thought
s
Feeling
s
Tiring

Depletes
Energy

Life Design Change Objectives:

Self managed –You are empowered to direct your own change.
Interdependent –Your do the change, but not without strengthening yourself
with support.
Cost effective – Most of the doorways for change cost little to nothing to implement.
-52- -53-
 Change is… “Endurable if it means something –
if it is a part of a movement toward the desired
end. But if it is not related to some large and
beneficial pattern, it becomes simply distressing.”
~ William Bridges

“When one door closes, another opens, but we often

look so long and regretfully upon the close door
that we do not see the one which has opened
for us.”
~ Alexander Graham Bell

-54- -55-
Doorways for Change Temple of Discovery
Each of these openings lead you through a doorway where you once encountered a wall. Each Having identified what you want to create, you now enter the Temple of Discovery. Within
doorway will help you move through the Shadow Jungle or light your way through the Caves the Temple, you will implement your Life Design in the quotidian. The real quest is about to
of Self-Deception. Select doorways that serve your needs and your journey. begin. The wizard (your instructor) offers you some magical tools to assist you as you
proceed.
Only you can choose correctly for your request.
• The Vision of Joy: Give yourself some quiet time and allow your mind to
gather a clear picture of your successful implementation of your Life Design.
As you picture your successful Life Design, do you see a “symbol” in your
Vision of that success?
• To My Heroine/Hero, a letter of celebration: Take out a piece of blank paper and
Clarity put a date at the top that is 6 months from today. Write a letter to yourself
Triads of Empower Self
Vision ed Responsibility congratulating yourself for your successful implementation of your Life Design.
Missio
n
Thinking
Place that letter somewhere you’ll be reminded to open it 6 months from today.
Values
Goals

Therapy Exercise Meditation Education Self Humor Eatin

Estee g
m Habit
s

Journalin Reading Prayer Nature Yoga Dance Rolfing

g

Music Solitude Aikido Dreams

-56- -57-
 Planning Process
Life Area #1: Relationships Life Area #2: Physical Health

Personal Mission Statement Goal: Improve Communication Skills Goal: Get Enough Rest

My personal mission is to use my K I N D N E S S , Action Steps Action Steps

CURIOSITY,
1. Active listening, repeat/summarize 1. Get 7-8 hours of sleep, relax more
and D E T E R M I N A T I O N
2. Withhold judgement, give feedback, reflect 2. Rest when tired and sleep when done
to P A R E N T ,
on discussion, show that I’m listening
LOVE, 3.
3.
and H E A L Recreational time to unwind my mind
Body language, show respect
so that I can G E T M Y D R I V E R ’ S L I C E N S E , Goal: Do Physical Activity
GRADUATE FROM ASU, Goal: Spend Quality Time
Action Steps
and T E A C H M Y S O N S K I L L S . Action Steps
Having achieved my 3 most important accomplishments, the results I see are H A V E A C A R A N D 1. Get 30-60 minutes of physical exercise daily& &
1. Flexible schedule, take turns for chosen make a schedule for work out days
TRAVEL WHERE I’D LIKE , activities
2. Stretch, do strength work outs
RECEIVE MY BACHELOR’S DEGREE/DIPLOMA,
2. Time commitments, try new things
and S E E M Y S O N M A S T E R S K I L L S A N D B E C O M E I N D E P E N D E N T . 3.
3.
I feel POWERFUL , Make physical time a fun time/ switch up
Keep distractions away, meaningful talks
PROUD, routines
and J O Y F U L . Goal: Express Love and Support
Goal: Spiritual Renewal
Action Steps
Action Steps
Values
1. Show appreciation/gratitude
1. Pray and meditate everyday
2. Conflict management, share life stories
2. Be in touch with nature and write daily
1. FAMILY HAPPINESS 4. LOVE 3. Help loved ones in need, accept mistakes 3. Have a safe place for mental health
happen
2. HEALTH 5. ADVENTURE
3. INTEGRITY/HONESTY 6. PEACEFULNESS

Affirmations (Positive, Personal, Present Tense, Powerful)

1. I have what it takes to be successful
2. I only need my approval. This is my life and no one else’s -59-

3. I create my reality. It can be anything I want it to be

4. My life is a gift and I appreciate everything I have
5. The point of life is balance; not perfection
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 “To laugh often and much, to win the
respect of intelligent people and the
affection of children, to earn the appreciation
of honest critics and endure the betrayal of
false friends, to appreciate beauty, to find
the best in others, to leave the world a bit
better, whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch, or a redeemed social
condition, to know that even one life has
breathed better because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

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