No one likes to feel uncomfortable, but it’s essential to improving your performance, creativity, and learning in the long run. Changing a habit, trying something new, taking a risk, or putting yourself in a totally new situation won’t be easy, but it’s worth it.

People who regularly seek fresh experiences tend to be more creative than those who remain stuck in a routine.

When you go out to experience new things or let new things happen to you, your body creates new pathways that fuel your creativity and enhance your memory.

That’s why being uncomfortable is something that should be embraced. Putting yourself in unfamiliar situations triggers a unique part of the brain that releases nature’s make-you-happy chemical.

Find new ways to articulate who you are and what you believe

Living in the comfort zone is easy. You simply follow a daily routine, and you can predict the consequences. Your assumptions are challenged outside your comfort zone. Your opinions, mindset, and belief system are already tested. You have to find new ways to articulate your beliefs. The idea of doing the same thing over and over is discouraged.

• You gain new experiences

Feeling uncomfortable is good because you still have the chance to gain new experiences. If you have a look back on your life, all of the really amazing things are because of a new experience you had. All the vacations you took and the people you have met have taught you more than you ever learned in school. These experiences make up who you are today.

• You explore new things about yourself

By going through the uncomfortable zone, you learn what you can handle and can’t. Knowing yourself, including what you cannot handle, helps you figure out a better path.

• Change makes you more flexible and adaptable

No one can deny that change makes you a more flexible and adaptable person. You are armed now with more confidence as you walk into the next uncomfortable situation. You begin to thrive in new situations because you have proven that you can handle change better.

• Be patient

Being in an uncomfortable zone will help you practice patience. Of course, you will fail many times before you eventually succeed. But you will wait for the results and never give up.

• Be more open to people

You are now open to more experiences and opportunities. You have the opportunity to meet more people too. If people invade your space and you still feel uncomfortable, this will help you face and handle the situation.

• Stop avoiding what’s hard.

Being challenged means that you are asked to become more than you are, which means creating new skills and pushing boundaries.

You have to expand your understanding in order to be able to overcome obstacles.

Learning to be comfortable with discomfort is an essential skill to pretty much master anything.

The praying mantis is a unique and fascinating creature. They are masters of camouflage, stealth, and patience. Because of this, mantis sightings are extremely rare. When you do see a praying mantis, it is a mesmerizing experience. You may get lost watching just how still the praying mantis is. It’s almost like it’s meditating or staring back at you.

A Symbol of Patience and Peace

The praying mantis has long been considered the symbol of meditative or contemplative thought. It is a prime example of patience and spiritual peace. Do not be surprised if you see a praying mantis when your life is at its most volatile. They appear to remind us to settle ourselves. If you are feeling out of balance, the praying mantis reminds you to find your center.

Timing is Everything

Even when the mantis is about to strike, there is an air of patience. They are hunters that eat other insects. They are unique in that they wait to strike until they CANNOT fail. Mantises look for a 100% chance of success, and they know that that requires waiting for the opportune moment. This is the most important lesson we can learn from the praying mantis. If a bug can wait for the right time, so can we.

The Praying Mantis in Different Cultures

The praying mantis gets its name from its resting pose. It most often stands upright, with its 2 front legs together as if in prayer. This has been interpreted as highly symbolic in many different cultures. Japanese culture historically admires the praying mantis because they are patient and graceful, both ideal characteristics in that culture. They are the honored inspiration of multiple martial arts styles originating in China. Even in South Africa, the presence of a praying mantis in your home is taken as a visit from that family’s ancestors. In general, many cultures call them a symbol of good luck.

At the same time, we cannot forget that the praying mantis is a skilled and dangerous hunter. Some cultures interpret this to symbolize encroaching enemies. In this case, seeing a praying mantis serves as a warning that someone is coming and they mean you harm. It can be difficult to know which message to take from your praying mantis sighting.

A Prophet

In Ancient Greek, the word “mantis” translates to someone who foretells, like a seer or prophet. It could be considered the spirit animal of clairvoyant people and a symbol of their presence. People who meditate frequently may also find a kindred spirit in the mantis.

Actually, channeling the praying mantis is a common practice for psychic healers. They emulate the mantis, deep in meditation, and focus on the work they wish to achieve. This meditative nature is why spirits like using the mantis to communicate with us. If you’re feeling like life is hectic and you’re constantly busy, you just may see a praying mantis in the future. Remember to “stop and smell the roses” as they say.

A Spirit Guide

The term “spirit animal” usually brings to mind the image of something with fur or feathers. But the praying mantis fits in this category as well. We call these embodied spirits “totem animals”. The interesting thing about totem animals is that they choose who they connect to, not the other way around. If you are a contemplative person and tend to be slow and deliberate in your actions, it is likely that a praying mantis would connect with you. You will be successful in your endeavors as long as you wait for the opportune moment, like the mantis.

Some people are more religious than others. Either way, we naturally seek guidance when facing life’s challenges. However, if you are not devoted to any particular religion, you can still desire cosmic affirmation that you are making the right decisions. A spirit guide is a great source of such affirmations, regardless of your religious affiliation or lack thereof.

We often think that spirit guides reach out to us in times of need, like some sort of fairy godmother, but this is not always the case. Instead, you can manifest your own spirit guide, like a personal deity. It just takes a little honesty, introspection, and time.

What do you need?

Your spirit guide should embody the things you need the most help with. Take your weaknesses and see them as character traits for your deity. For example, if you want to be more confident, see your guide as very confident already. In this way, your guide is a role model for what you are trying to work towards.

Don’t feel obligated to manifest a perfect angel. Every personality trait may not be a “good” one. It is all about you and the growth you are trying to achieve. For example, if you want to be more seductive with your lover or more assertive at work, your spirit guide can also embody those traits.

What does your spirit guide look like?

There is no right or wrong answer here. Your mystical mentor could be a human, animal, or neither. It’s all about what fits the traits you selected in step one. You could learn patience from a spider or adventure from a daredevil. Feel free to let your imagination run wild.

How will you connect?

Now that your deity is created, you must decide how you will communicate and connect with them. In the movies, this is the part where people meditate and have spiritual conversations in the clouds. You don’t have to do it that way. Meditation is a great option, but so is praying or building an altar. It really depends on your purpose for channeling your guiding light. You could channel them while writing in a journal, letting their words come out through your pen. A designated place and routine for connecting with your spirit guide can be useful. If you need more feedback “in the moment,” work on channeling them more like an inner voice.

You don’t need mainstream religious practices to direct your relationship with your mystical mentor. All that matters is that your guide is equipped to escort you through the challenges you face in your own situation. Now follow their lead to a more fulfilled life.

We all reach a point in our lives when we look around and feel dissatisfied with our current lot in life. You may feel past your prime, as if your best days are behind you. Don’t fall into this negative mental trap!

It is never too late to get a fresh start and live your best life. Who you are now may not be who you want to be, but you still have time. So take a moment to rejuvenate and refresh yourself. Then, practice a few of these healing rituals and attract happiness in your life.

Spiritual Baths

Spiritual baths are great for recharging your energy. They work best when you consider the phases of the moon. A full moon is best for this sort of energizing ritual.

Cleansing Moonwash

Start with 1 quart of witch hazel. Add 1/2 oz. jasmine flowers, 1/2 oz. eucalyptus bark, and 1/2 oz. mugwort and let this mixture steep while you prepare yourself. It is common to take a normal shower before you start so your body is clean. You may choose to fast for a few hours, pray or meditate. Do whatever you need to bring yourself to a place of calmness. Cleanse yourself with the Moonwash. Start at your feet and work your way up your body. Focus on clearing your mind.

Cleansing Sunwash

The procedure is basically the same as with the Moonwash. Start with 1 quart of witch hazel. Add 1/2 oz. chamomile flowers, 1/2 oz. cinnamon bark, and 1/2 oz. oak leaves. Let the mixture steep while you shower, and otherwise, prepare yourself for your ritual. Focus on clearing your mind while you apply the wash from your feet up your body.

Happiness Spells

Attract Positive Energy into Your Home

You’ll need a container of warm water and some lemons for this ritual. You’ll also need the following mantra:

With this wash, I banish negativity from my home.

With this wash, I banish all unwanted energy from my home.

With this wash, I invite the sparkling yellow energy of the sun into my home.

With this wash, I invite love, hope, and positive power into my home.

Squeeze the juice from the 2 lemons into the warm water. Use this water to wash the outside of every door that leads into your house. Once you’ve washed the outside of all the doors, go back and wash the inside. For the best effect, start with your front door. If the lemon water gets dirty, toss it and make a fresh batch to continue.

Once all the doors are cleaned, you can pour what’s left of the lemon water on your front step. Use a clean broom to sweep the water away and out. Focus on your mantra. Repeat it to yourself or out loud while you cleanse away the negativity.

Welcome the sparkling energy of the Sun into your home.

A Simple Spell for Self-Love

When you ask the universe for something, you must speak as if you already have it. This time, meditate in a comfortable position and place. For example, you could relax in a bubble bath or lie outside under the sky. Any place that makes you feel calm is appropriate. Here is a mantra for self-love:

I love and accept myself as I am.

I am worthy of my love and acceptance.

Others love and accept me.

I am worthy of their love and acceptance.

There is someone special and wonderful who loves and accepts me.

I am worthy of their love and acceptance.

I embrace this love.

I accept it into my life.

I give love to others in return.

Repeat your mantra several times and feel the light of love filling your spirit. Feel free to repeat this ritual periodically to enhance your sense of self-love.

Attract Happiness

Happiness is a feeling you have experienced. It’s exhilarating! That’s why we seek it in its absence. The memory of that high leaves us feeling a strong desire to find happiness again. The good news is, you can bring it to you like channeling spirits from the other side.

1. First, find a comfortable seated position.
2. Now, breathe in a fragrance that makes you happy. It could be imagined, or you could bring something along to help you. Maybe you remember the smell of funnel cake at a recent carnival, or your favorite part of the day is that fresh cup of coffee.
3. Next, focus on a favorite pet or a person. Babies are a great choice here. You can see how babies and pets are happy at even the littlest thing. This happiness should be your focus.
4. Finally, remember one of your happiest moments. Relive that happiness right now, and feel it overflow within you.

Revisit this ritual as often as you need, and soon you will be able to call upon it whenever you need an extra dose of levity in your life.

Start with choosing happiness, and you may be surprised at how the rest of your life is revamped to reflect you better.

If you are reading this, you are ready for a change. But you’re also hesitating like the caterpillar who emerged as a butterfly from the cocoon. You know things have changed, but are you sure you’re ready?

It’s normal to feel that uncertainty and to want to be fully prepared before you take that first big leap. At the same time, waiting too long isn’t being prepared. It’s procrastinating. Do not let your uncertainty bloom into full-blown self-doubt.

This new direction is supposed to be an adventure. Go for it! You’re as ready as you’re ever going to be.

Embrace the Possibilities

Understand that you cannot just step out onto the mountaintop. You have to learn to climb, which means you have to take that first step. Focus on taking one step at a time instead of worrying about the air at the summit. By the time you get there, you’ll be a mountain climbing master. Getting caught up in the long road ahead will only overwhelm you. Don’t convince yourself of failure before you even try.

You will always feel like you’re not quite ready for the opportunities that come to you. But, like kids with a new pair of shoes, you’ll grow into them. Just start.

What’s stopping you?

Be honest with yourself. You are on the verge of living your best life and shining brilliantly in the face of the world. So what are you waiting for? You will struggle as long as you don’t admit that the only thing stopping you, is you.

Own Your Future

It’s easy to buy into concepts like fate and destiny. The idea of having a predetermined future absolves us from having much personal responsibility regarding where we end up. The thing is, fate is something you CAN influence. Your destiny will be whatever you make it. The universe may guide your choices, but you must make them yourself.

There is one hard and fast rule to living your best life. You have to let go of the things in your life that do not work in your favor. If it does not positively affect you, it needs to go. This can include friends, self-talk statements, habits, and routines. Break out of the small box you’ve managed to cram yourself into. Letting go of negative influences is easier said than done for most of us. But doing it will make all the difference in realizing your full, glorious potential. Be the butterfly, not the caterpillar.

Enjoy the Adventure

We’ve spent most of this time talking about your end goal. Don’t forget to enjoy the ride. Life is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. The difference now is that you are systematically removing the obstacles that stand between you and your dreams. Internal insecurities are nothing in the face of your new-found resolve. Appreciate your transformation as it happens, not just after it’s over.

How does the life you live compare to the life you wish you were living? Are you living out your dream? Why not? Your life is a direct reflection of how you feel about yourself. You are living the life you think you deserve.

That last sentence bothered you, didn’t it? Surely, you deserve more! You deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life. The good news is, you can get there. You already have everything you need. I’m just going to show you how to get there.

One of the most common places we often feel like we deserve better is in our love lives. Why is it so difficult to find a quality partner and be happy with that person? You start to think you are unworthy or unattractive, but this is not the case!

From now on, we’re going to redefine our perspective. Feeling bad has never helped anyone. You want good vibes only, because the higher, positive vibrations attract more positivity and joy.

Let’s practice a positive perspective. If you’re single, remind yourself that there is someone for everyone; and your ideal partner is searching for you as well. Perhaps you have a partner already but it seems they don’t treat you well. Do not let their behavior make you feel less than lovable. You do not have to settle for less than what would make you happy. Everyone comes into our lives for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you must endure a frustrating relationship for the sake of having someone.You ARE able to walk away. Once you are over the initial pain of heartbreak, you will feel supremely empowered for having set a standard.

The world reflects what we put out. That is why the more you accept yourself, the better your life experiences will be. Find a hobby or activity that brings you joy and fulfillment. It could be volunteering in your community or learning a new skill like sewing or martial arts. The key is to find something that feels good to your soul. You need to feel a sense of achievement that remains positive over time.

You are not perfect. What you must realize, is that you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be yourself. You have to understand that life will throw you curveballs, and that is also ok. Inner peace comes through acceptance.

Every so often, it is a good idea to spend some time in deep self-reflection. Ask yourself some probing question to really see where you are. Questions like:

• Am I making sure I receive everything I have earned?
• Am I satisfied or settling?
• Is my inner voice positive and encouraging or negative and self-deprecating?
• Am I taking responsibility for my own happiness?

Taking a personal inventory will keep you from sinking into a negative headspace when the goal is to live your best life.

No matter what you have thought of yourself before this moment, you are worthy. Love yourself, and the world will respond accordingly. Happiness isn’t found. It is made.

A “pay it forward” principle promotes a great idea of random acts of kindness to strangers in the hope that they, in turn, will do something nice for someone else. Every day in some small way, you can brighten someone’s day with an act of kindness. Not only does it help someone else, but you benefit both mentally and physically.

Here’s how life-changing being kind to strangers can be:

• Giving Makes You Happier

Did you know that people who spend a portion of their income on others tend to be far happier than those who don’t? This puts a new spin on money-buying happiness. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. It could be something small, such as paying someone’s bill or buying groceries for an elderly neighbor. The joy of giving seems to spark happiness in the brain. Humans are social animals and hardwired to help others. This is why helping someone gives you that warm, fuzzy feeling inside.

• Giving Makes You Healthier

If a psychic reading online prompted you to take better care of your health, here’s an easy way to do so. Being kind to others will make you healthier. Several studies show that helping others can protect us from disease and prolong one’s life. Giving brings joy. When we’re joyful, our stress levels drop, and our immune system gets a boost. Compassion and empathy shove aside negative emotions and release those feel-good hormones called endorphins. And once the bug bites, you might find yourself craving more of the “helper’s high” and continually looking for ways to help others.

• Kindness Builds Communities

Remember the saying “it takes a village to raise a child”? Many people have forsaken this philosophy and become self-centered. Gone are the days when kids asked the neighbor for a cup of sugar or when people sent casseroles to needy families. Today, people focus on looking out for themselves. In 2010, a Michigan University study found that college students had 40 percent less empathy than young people in the 1970s. As time has gone by, we’ve become less trusting and less giving. Showing neighborly kindness can mitigate many of the social ills plaguing communities.

• Kindness Breaks Down Barriers

The news is littered with stories of terror and violence. Fear has made people suspicious and has even bred hatred. Yet, it is often amid tragedies that we see strangers helping strangers. This is because inherent in our human nature is the desire to help our fellow humans. Don’t wait for a clairvoyant to predict the next major tragedy to start helping others. Be more tolerant and understanding of others now. You’ll see that every person, irrespective of race, color, or creed, faces struggles and that we all need a helping hand from time to time.

We are living in turbulent times in a harsh world. However, we have the power to change that. As Whitney Anthony writes in her article on Tiny Buddha, “It’s the simple, unexpected acts of generosity that change lives, and a culmination of these small acts can change the world.”