What Are You Tolerating?

After writing my last article at thecircle.org about tolerations in the workplace I was compelled to write more on the subject. So what exactly are tolerations? They are the things we are putting up with in our day to day lives that are zapping our energy and holding us back from living our best lives. For example, tolerations can be things such as a messy closet that needs organizing, a friend that is constantly late but we have yet to discuss the problem with them, a stack of papers that need to be filed, or situation that is causing us stress. Tolerations can include people, your environment, pressures, situations, expectations, your body, feelings, stress, problems and events. So what are your tolerations?

Make a list of 50 things you are tolerating. Brainstorm and post the list where you can see it every day (it may take a week or so to list everything). They can be big or small. List in all areas of your life: home, work, family, office, relationships, life & lifestyle, body & self-care, computer/equipment, money, and car. Be sure to list everything regardless of whether you feel you have a solution for them or not. Be sure not to put filters on them. Ask other’s to help you recognize your tolerations.

Next, write down this question “What would my life look like and feel like if I was not tolerating this?” When answering the question be sure to really picture what your life would be like. Would you have more room in your closet if you cleaned it up? More storage? What would that feel like to you? Would you feel like you had more control in life? What else can you do to be more in control of your life?

Now choose a few items that you are going to work on to create less tolerations in your life. Start with 2-4 items to work on. Make sure you choose things that make a big impact on your life and take it step by step. Don’t try to do too much too soon-ease into it and break it down into manageable parts.

Once you start to work on overcoming your tolerations you will start to see you have more energy, you are more creative and resourceful, less distractions and overall just a happier person. It is your life and you are in control-choose how you want to live it!!