This is part six of a series on How to Balance Your Time, where we’re looking at the six key types of time we all need in our lives if we are to maintain work-life balance:
* Creative and productive
* Physically energetic and active
* Playful and entertaining
* Learning and developing
* Reflective and spiritual
* Restful and relaxing
Today we’ll take a closer look at the fifth type of time: reflective and spiritual.
I’ve said here before that I believe all of us are spiritual beings and have some sort of moral compass to guide us, whether or not we recognize it or consider ourselves to be “religiousâ€.
I write about Spirituality, Faith and Ethics on Sundays because I have observed that many people tend to neglect the spiritual aspect of their lives. I certainly have at different times. Why? Because it requires that we take a deep look within, and personally, I’m often afraid to see what’s lurking there!
I think one of the best things people can do is to make time for reflection – to take a good look inside themselves to assess how well they lived over the last week or month in accordance with their values and beliefs.
For me, this exercise gives me a greater sense of perspective, helps me align my habits and actions with my stated values and beliefs, and helps me on my journey to live up to my full potential in all areas of life, including the spiritual area.
Here are some other practices that can help you nurture your spiritual life:
Solitude – Make time to get away from it all and just enjoy some quiet reflection and prayer. It could be just a few moments of quiet in your home or office, a long walk or hike, or something else.
Gratitude – There is something spiritual about showing gratitude for the blessings we’ve received. I think one reason it is powerful is because it is an expression of our dependence on God and others.
Prayer – Over the years, I’ve read lots of articles about the power of prayer, based on people’s experiences. Prayers can be as brief and simple as the words “help me”, or they can be longer times of connection to God at a deeper level. Prayers can be said throughout the day or at specific times of day.
Meditation & Scripture Memorization – Read the Bible or other sacred or inspirational text, and meditate on, or even memorize, certain passages.
Accountability Partner, Spiritual Friend or Mentor – Sometimes we all need the guidance and support of others to help us grow. Many people find that having an accountability partner has made a difference for them – not just in their spiritual growth – but in all areas of life. An accountability partner is someone who holds you lovingly accountable for the goals you’ve said you wanted to accomplish and the changes you wanted to make. A spiritual friend or mentor is someone who specifically guides you in the spiritual (and other related) aspects of your life.
Small Group – This is similar to the one above, but it involves a group instead of a one-to-one relationship.
Weekly worship gathering – Many people find their spiritual life grows when they connect to a local church or other house of worship for regular worship services or experiences.
What are some of the ways you nurture your spiritual life? Please share your thoughts and ideas!
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