In a yoga class recently, my instuctor talked to us about knowing our Dharma. I had always wanted to understand what Dharma referred to, so I listened quite intently while he spoke. This is what I learned from what he said. 

 ”Dharma” means “protection”. By practising Buddha’s teachings we protect ourself from suffering and problems. All the problems we experience during daily life originate in ignorance, and the method for eliminating ignorance is to practise Dharma.

Practising Dharma is the supreme method for improving the quality of our human life. The quality of life depends not upon external development or material progress, but upon the inner development of peace and happiness. 

If we integrate Buddha’s teachings into our daily life, we will be able to solve all our inner problems and attain a truly peaceful mind. Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible.”

Very wise young man,! He went on to explain that there are three questions we can each ask ourselves to attain our own personal Dharma. I bet you can guess what the first question is! I have talked about it here before, the one question most of the people I coach have the most trouble answering. What do you want? No, what do you really want? So can you answer that question? What’s your best answer? To be a millionnaire! To get a promotion! To find Mr or Ms Wonderful! Peace on Earth, good will to all!

I decided I could not ask others this question if I could not answer it for myself. After much thought I realized that what is most important to me is to live authentically, in my integrity. Okay, new age terms, what does that mean.? Well for me, practicing what I preach, living a life that is healthy and balanced. For me that meant looking at how I manage my health, wealth and relationships. Okay sounds easy enough right? Well actually it has been a journey of discovery for me. I would say it started years ago and perhaps it did, but the most growth for me has taken place over the last two years and it continues.

After you can name what you really want, ask yourself, “What does this mean to you?” This is the question that will get you thinking and really examining what value this has for you. It may also take you up and down some different paths to get focused on what you really want. For me as a coach it is “walking my talk”. What I love about my coach is her integrity, honesty and authenicity. If she lacked that, it would be hard for me to work with her. So answering this question will get you to the core of who you are.

Okay, nothing matters if this next question isn’t answered…..“What are you willing to do to have it?”  Action the most important step of all. What keeps most people from reaching their goals? Not taking steady and consistent action. People are great at setting goals, however most goals that are set are never reached. It’s what keeps us stating the same New Year’s Resolution year after year. In order to reach your Dharma, inner peace…you must take ACTION. And for me there is one question I would add to these three, “By when?”  The accountability factor is the bow on the package. Better yet commit to someone you trust and ask them to hold you accountable.

One of the first steps for me toward answering these questions for my own life was the Now What exercises. As a facilitator I went through the program first. I read the book, was in a group and completed the exercises, did the research and homework and answered all the questions. I can’t promise exactly how your life will change however I can tell you doing the work will opening you up to new possibilities. Try it and See! Listen to my Blog Radio program recorded on September 12th or join me for this week’s program on Wednesday, September 19th at 6:00 PM EST or 3:00 Pacific time. Tune in at….http://www.blogtalkradio.com.

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