By Claire Diab and Dennis Boyle
This is the third in a series of articles on the Seven Keys to Success. So far, we have discussed the first two principles: Understanding our Spiritual Essence and Giving and Receiving. The third principle in the Seven Spiritual Laws of Success is The Law of Karma–Cause and Effect.
The Law of Karma says that out of an infinity of choices, there is the one perfect choice that will create happiness for you and all of those around you. There are many signs around you and feelings within you that will guide you. Your body is like an antenna that will send you feelings of comfort and discomfort. For some, it comes from the solar plexus, while others will feel it in the heart. I always feel the best question to ask when making a decision –whether it be what to eat or whether or not to make a job or relationship change –is, “Will this choice nourish me?” If you just pause and ask yourself that simple question, you will be guided to the answer by a feeling of comfort or discomfort in your body. If it feels comfortable, go for it! If it feels uncomfortable, don’t do it! There is always another choice.
It is also important to be present so you can notice signs or symbols along the way, often right in front of you, that will be clues for the appropriate choice. When we practice being present and noticing the different choices we face throughout the day, it becomes easy for us to be aware of our inner guidance. When it is a big decision such as “Do I take on this new job?” or “Do I move?” you want to be aware of the signs along the way that will help you to make the right decision. This will then create happiness for you. And when you are happy, all of those around you will be happy, too. And this will lead you to a life of joy and fulfillment, a life of true success. Here’s how to practice this principle over the next two weeks.
- Today I will witness the choices I make in each moment. And in the mere witnessing of these choices, I will bring them to my conscious awareness. I will know that the best way to prepare for any moment in the future is to be fully conscious in the present.
- Whenever I make a choice, I will ask myself two questions: “What are the consequences of this choice I am making?” and “Will this choice bring fulfillment and happiness to me and also to those who are affected by this choice?”
- I will then ask my heart for guidance and be guided by its message of comfort or discomfort. If the choice feels comfortable, I will plunge ahead with abandon. If the choice feels uncomfortable, I will pause and see the consequences of my action with my inner vision. This guidance will enable me to make spontaneously correct choices for myself and for all those around me.
Enjoy!
Claire Diab is an internationally recognized Yoga therapist. She is the director of the Yoga Program for the Chopra Center founded by Dr. Deepak Chopra and Dr. David Simon. She is an adjunct professor of Asian Studies at Seton Hall University. She is the author of several books and DVDs on Yoga including “Yoga For Firefighters.”
Dennis Boyle is a retired fire director and acting chief with the West Orange (NJ) Fire Department. He was the recipient of the 1999 New Jersey Deputy Fire Chiefs “Fire Officer of the Year” award.
