I
am sure I am not the only one who had a slight, visceral reaction to the notion
of a "manifesto". Unfortunately, they are often associated with
someone who has committed a heinous act of some sort, not with anything positive. But, while I was on
Facebook, one of the new coaches (who, now, works with my current coach) wrote
a post about how he created a personal manifesto for himself. It contains a
short list of values and expectations that he has for himself. It is written in
an active voice, so it is written in an affirming way.

Here is a link to Coach Mark's
inactive blog, where he describes the
process: http://markyoungtrainingsystems.com/2012/04/my-personal-manifesto/

Mark wrote the status at the
beginning of the year, and I did not pay much attention to it, other than to
think that it was a "nice idea". However, a couple of days ago I felt
the urge to write my own.  Writing has always been a way that I sort
through mental constipation. It is why I came back to this blog after
neglecting it for so long. Writing and lists simplifies what seems to be
complex. So, I went through the process (see the link above) and reduced my
list to about five categories.  My five
areas included: a stronger spiritual relationship with God; serving my family;
valuing my health; and being present and productive. 

I realized there is so little that keeps us from our goals and
that our goals and values linked like a spider web.  When we improve areas
of our lives other areas improve, by default.

I went to the gym and had one of the
best workouts that I have had in a long time. It felt easy. It was grounded in
something meaningful--helping others and valuing my own health so that I can
better serve my family and others (but don't get it twisted; this does not mean
being a push over).

Do you have a personal manifesto?