Jim Ryan's 'AHA' Moments

Release that Parking Brake

2011-07-14T16:47:00.003-04:00

Many of us live our lives like we were driving a car with the parking brake on...moving but never feeling the ease that living life could and should be.
When we realease the parking brake the car moves forward easily. We shake our heads and wonder why it took so long to release the brake.
Our limiting beliefs are like that parking brake. Once we can rid ourselves of those beliefs that tell us who we can't be and what we can't do, watch out. We'll start living life full speed ahead.

SIMPLE HAPPINESS INNER CIRCLE

2011-07-13T11:12:00.002-04:00

Today I am introducing my SIMPLE HAPPINESS INNER CIRLCE. I am so excited about this introduction. It has been in the planning stages for months and finally it is here. It is a membership site for those who want more out of life. Weekly themes and assignments will be the template.
Every Wednesday I send out an "Aha Moment", an empowering thought to lift you up in the middle of the week. This SIMPLE HAPPINESS INNER CIRCLE will be much, much more than just an idea. We will take the concepts and dig deeper, not only offering a new idea, but giving assignments so that members can feel the joy of putting the ideas into practice.
It's all about feeling good all day long. These lessons and assignments will do just that. By putting the ideas into practice members will start to feel good right away. It is the path to conscious, joyful living.
Tell everyone about it. Just click on http://bit.ly/q0JItp.

Sermon on the Mount

2011-06-07T17:06:00.004-04:00

As a former Irish Christian Brother I get communications from time to time relating to the state of the Congregation. I've lifted this paragraph from a presentation recently given by Bro. Philip Pinto. He is speaking about the need for a renewed commitment to follow Christ. Here it is:

"For so long we have based our religious observance on beliefs and propositions. We worry about the divine presence and the virgin birth, about the two natures in Christ and the infallibility of the Pope, about Transubstantiation and the Immaculate Conception. But when one reads and reflects on the Sermon on the Mount, the heart and soul of the Jesus vision, what the early Christians referred to as The Way, we find nothing about what to believe but an alternative ehtic, a way of behaving, a way of living life. Jesus was telling us that there was antother way of living life, another way of relating to people, and he called us to change the world from the inside. It is about behavior rather than belief. We are invited to embrace what is truly eternal. And what is truly eternal is love!"

I love it! Love God, Love your Neighbor. I invite you to read the Sermon on the Mount from the Gospel of St. Matthew.

Commitment Opens Doors

2011-06-07T11:06:00.002-04:00

I love to play golf. I'm not the greatest golfer but I feel my best days are still ahead of me. My normal score is in the low 90's. I feel really good when I score in the 80's. Over the past few years I have often put off playing to spend time working in my office. This year I decided that I would play as much golf as I could. I made a commitment to follow my passion for golf.

Last Thursday I was playing a round at the Crab Meadow Golf Course in Northport with three friends. I stood at the tee at the third hole, a par three 161 yards long. I pulled my eight iron from my bag (normally I would have hit a seven iron, but there was a helping wind). I struck the ball and it jumped off the club, travelling high into the air flying right toward the center of the green. It bounced once then on to the green and it proceeded to roll slowly in the direction of the pin. It was as if time stood still. I thought to myself that this is going to be a pretty good shot. Closer, closer it rolled until that wonderful moment when it gently hit the pin and dropped in the cup for a hole-in-one! What a feeling of exhiliration! I jumped and screamed with delight at my first ever hole-in-one.

It was witnessed by all three of my playing partners who also gave a whoop-di-doo on my behalf. What a great day - one that I will never forget. I ended up shooting an 89, by the way. It was mostly good except for two triple bogies and a double.

It is my firm belief that the decision and commitment to play more golf this year opened me up to this experience. Not only did I have the hole-in-one, but my business is doing great as well. My time away from the office has forced me to focus more when I am there, yielding very satisfactory results.

What is your passion? When will you decide to pursue it? Isn't today a good day to make that commitment?

The Placebo Effect

2011-05-24T13:39:00.003-04:00

The Placebo Effect is evidence enough for me that our mind is a very powerful asset One that that we all posess (http://bit.ly/kBkwBG. We need to start to cultivate the power of our minds. Building the belief in ourselves that we can accomplish a goal that is the determining factor in our success to reaching that goal.
Make the attainment of your goal your dominant thought. Refer to that visual of your achievement often during the day. Spend time in visualizing it during your morning meditation and as you lie down in bed for a restful night's sleep. When the negative thoughts arrive, acknowledge them, but quickly turn to the picture and the affirmation of your success.
Harness the power of your Mind. Check out this short video. Refer to it often. http://bit.ly/kBkwBG

Enjoy Your Own Company

2011-05-18T10:00:00.002-04:00

I crack up laughing whenever I hear someone say "I was bored out of my mind".
Why do we feel the need to be doing something all the time?
It's okay to be bored. When we notice ourselves feeling bored, that's the best time to work on enjoying our own company. It's time to reflect, plan, dream,
to connect with our divine side. Notice when you have nothing pressing to do. Sit for a minute or two and just be. Don't channel surf on the TV. Think. Reflect. Consider what you love about yourself. Consider the many ways in which you are blessed. Be happy with who you are.
It's a good thing to begin to enjoy your own company because for many of us that is what old age has in store.

Check out this video and enjoy one of nature's beauties.
http://bit.ly/lYEPZO

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:39:00.002-04:00

There are many kinds of mothers, just like there are many kinds of people. Most try to do their best. All need encouragement and support. All want the best for their children. Many are underappreciated and misunderstood. See the good in your mother. Try to overlook the unhappy stuff. Speak only good of your mother.

Be the best mother you can be. Love your kids no matter what. They need your love, no matter how old they are. Tell your kids how proud you are of them.

A Tale of Two Audiences

2011-05-06T14:28:00.004-04:00

I delivered two talks this week and the results were miles apart. I learned a good lesson from the first one.
I was hired to give a talk at a dinner for a women's group last Wednesday and a Conference group on Thursday. The focus of the women's group was a social dinner to close out their season. I happened to be the speaker. Chatty women,sitting at round tables (some had their backs to me),eating dinner, enjoying a glass of wine or two do not make the most attentive of audiences. I was talking over a constant drone of conversation most of the time. Next time I will make my talk brief and hard hitting.
I got a lot of good feedback from those who listened but I felt it was a struggle the whole way.
Yesterday I spoke at a breakout session at the LI Library Conference, held at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Over 300 attended, (about 100 more that the sponsor had anticipated). I had them in the palm of my hand the entire time. It was one of the best audiences I've ever addressed. I even got a chance to be funny, reacting to the input from the folks. The feedback was enthusiastic as evidenced by my book sales and email signups.
It was indeed a Tale of Two Audiences. I've learned my lesson.

Forgiveness - Two Sides

2011-05-04T10:15:00.004-04:00

Have mercy. Be open to forgiving, that is, asking for and granting forgiveness.
Why harbor a grudge? Nobody's perfect. Why let your family be split apart by stubbornness or a misunderstanding? Be the one to take the first step to begin the healing. Life is too short. Soften your position.
Forgive. Ask for forgiveness.

That was my "Aha Moment" for 5/4/11... This was a response I got.

"I have forgiven so many times only to be used and abused and mistreated
time and time again. He is an addict - and an alcoholic.
If the person you are forgiving will not get help to change, you will
spend a lifetime forgiving and staying in the vacuum which sucks you dry.
Sometimes forgiving is not the answer to preserve your own health and
well being. Sometimes you just need to walk away."

My response was:

You have hit on the other side of it. I agree. Forgiving doesn't mean being taken advantage of or being stepped on and walked over. Sometimes it means moving on with a clear conscience.

Your Natural State of Mind

2011-05-04T09:43:00.002-04:00

We all have a Natural State of Mind. It's the place where peace, tranquility, solutions to problems, creativity, genius and serenity reside. Sounds like a good place, huh? It's the place we want to go when we notice the uncomfortable feeling of stress coming on. Imagine if we could access this place at will. How much less stress would we experience.
To be able to access this place when we need it we must first practice being in our Natural State of Mind. In order to experience more of those beautiful things we must intentionally go there. We go there by sitting quietly and breathing. We go there through the practice of meditation.
Our Natural State of Mind is available to all of us, but we must want to go there and we must practice being there. Let this blog be your invitation to the blissful state of your Natural State of Mind.

St. Francis of Assisi

2011-05-02T15:54:00.003-04:00

Last week's "Aha Moment" was based on a quote from St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most beloved Catholic Saints. It goes like this, "In Medieval times the followers of St. Francis wanted to know what to do when they took to the streets. 'Tell everybody about the love of God,' St. Francis advised. 'If necessary, use words'".
I mentioned this to a priest I was speaking to this week. He said he had that quote on a plaque on his office wall. His wording was slightly different. His said, "Preach the Gospel. If necessary use words". The meaning is the same. We show our love for God by showing love to our neighbors.
Who are our neighbors? Well, in addition to those who live near us, it is everyone else: those we run into during the day: the guy at the gas station, the girl who fills our bagel order, the guy who cuts us off on the highway, the woman struggling with her groceries while wheeling two little ones around, those who seem to have more than us, those who seem to have less than us... and on and on and on. It's everyone.
Incorporating this concept into our daily lives is a great way to help us stay in the moment. Smile, be courteous, practice the Golden Rule. Tell everyone about the love of God by your actions. Let there be no doubt about it. Leave everyone you meet uplifted by having run into you. Your troubles will fade as you spread God's love. You were chosen to be His messenger.

A Happy Easter

2011-04-25T13:43:00.004-04:00

I spent Easter Sunday with my son, Lou, his wife, Colleen and their baby girl, Ella. The entire day was a total delight. It started with an early morning drive from Long Island to MA. Then, spending time with my son and his family. What a good son his is, as are my other son and my daughter. I am indeed blessed to have such fabulous kids. They are bright, talented, articulate, successful and loving. I could not ask for more.
My son, Lou and his family live on a beautiful street inhabited by it seems family after family with young kids. Their tradition is to have an Easter Egg Hunt on Easter morning at about ll:30. The whole block participated, parents providing and hiding colorful plastic eggs filled with goodies and kids waiting patiently inside until the appointed hour when the hunt began.
It was an opportunity for my son and his wife to meet many of theie new neighbors, havng been shut in most of the cold, stormy winter with their infant. The whole event was a warm, friendly experience. It was such an example of what can happen in a community when a few folks take the initiative to make something good happen. So often we wait for the other guy to get the thing started.
Photos were taken, dogs petted, mimosa's drunk (in moderation) eggs found and a great spirit of community was experienced by the whole block. What a nice place to live.
I think I'll organize a party for my neighbors real soon.

Quietly Serving

2011-04-23T11:03:00.002-04:00

Over the years through my association with many different groups I have noticed something inspiring that I want to bring up here. I have seen many, many good people doing good for others in their communities quietly, without any fanfare or applause.
These are people who take their free time and volunteer. It might be at the local food pantry, the local VA Hospital or nursing home. They may never get an award, but that's not what they are looking for. They just quietly do good for others, giving of their time and talent so that someone else's life might be better.

As Mother Teresa said, "We are not all called to do great things. Rather, we are all called to do things with great love."

A Beautiful Spring Thought

2011-04-22T10:26:00.002-04:00

Where You Tend a Rose, A Thistle Cannot Grow
Frances Hogson Burnett
The Secret Garden

We live in a world full of thistles and we must spend a lot of effort navigating through them. Tending roses, literally and figuratively, takes effort too. But it’s a different kind of effort, one that is energizing and enlightening. We can create beauty wherever we go, whether it’s a smile, a friendly greeting, a truly looking at someone, or just a mindful moment.

As we tend our roses we cultivate all that is good in the world: thoughtful focus, loving kindness, reaching out in word and deed, reaching into ourselves to find our own answers. These kind of actions extricate us from the briar patch of our lives and remind us that life is worth, not only living, but enjoying.

With a heartfelt wish that you genuinely enjoy your Spring!

This came to me from Dr. Duffy Spencer, a social psychologist from Nassau County. Check her out at her website, www.DrDuffy.com. She sends out an occaional thought like this. Sign up and get her uplifting insights in your email box. She interviewed me a couple of years ago on her radio show, "Just Relationships". You can tune in to her show on WHPC, 90.3 on Wednesday 3:30pm, Friday 11:00am and on Sunday at 9:30am.

Thanks Dr. Duffy. Keep up the good work.

A Challenge

2011-04-19T16:57:00.004-04:00

Today I was challenged by the phone company to maintain my God-Consciousness and my Simple Happiness mindset. Most of the time I did OK. I was called on to not take things too seriously and try to be in the moment. That's what we need to do when feeling the urge to lash out in frustration at the person at the other end of the phone. "Breathe, Jim, breathe" I said to myself. In the grand scheme of things is this really worth getting upset about. Will it really matter a year from now.

Practicing meditation and mindfulness when things are going well gives us the edge and experience to draw upon when we are squeezed. What's inside us comes out. It was a good practice and lesson for me today. I passed, not with flying colors, but with a better grade than I would have received a couple of years ago.

Everything I Do Is a Prayer (cont.)

2011-04-18T12:06:00.003-04:00

After I wrote my last blog post I thought about it, as I tried to understand that everything I do is a prayer. By maintaining a focus on my every action, what I am really doing is living in the present moment. The results are the same. I feel grateful for all around me. My confidence soars, my ability to be compassionate becomes easy and obvious. My life is filled with Peace and Joy

As I wrote at the end of my book, Simple Happiness, It doesn't matter if I come from a place of God-Consciousness and arrive at Peace and Joy, or I begin by striving for a place of Peace and Joy and arrive at God-Consciousness. The two lines can't help but intersect and intertwine.

Step back and experience the joy of the ride.

Everything We Do Is a Prayer

2011-04-10T10:52:00.005-04:00

When we truly understand our relationship with God, we understand that our every action is a prayer. If we could only live our lives in that context. How things would change. We would be uplifted by this God-consciousness all day long. Our thoughts would always come back to peace and joy. Our gratitude would be overflowing. Our compassion would light up the lives of others. Our positive energy would be contageous. Confidence would replace fear. Trust would replace suspicion. Love would fill our days.

Tomorrow morning upon awakening bring the tought that "My every action is a payer" to mind. Bring that thought to mind as often as you can during the day. Little by little, day by day, you'll be on your way to becoming a saint.

Abundance

2011-04-06T10:47:00.004-04:00

The abundance of the Universe is like the ocean. We can go down to the ocean to receive our share of its abundance every day armed with a tea cup or a dump truck. It's our choice. It makes no difference to the ocean what we bring. It will be the same vast ocean speading as far as we can see whether we take a cup full or a dump truck full.
The size of the container we bring to the ocean is often a reflection of how worthy we feel to partake in the abundance of the universe. Some of us feel only worthy enough to full up a tea cup. That's too bad. The Universe is ready to give as much as we can take. It is we who decide to take so little. Try bringing a container that is slightly bigger than the one you brought yesterday. The Universe invites us to share in its infinite abundance. It's up to us to accept that invitation.

Celebrate Your (little) Successes

2011-04-01T10:19:00.003-04:00

Don't be too hard on yourself. Accept your shortcomings but don't focus on them. Shortcomings are part of being human. Argue for your limitations and they are yours. Rather, focus on what is going right in your life. Celebrate your successes, even the small ones. Congratulate yourself when you catch yourself being kind. Feel good about passing on the opportunity to contribute to petty gossip. Notice when you compliment your spouse and kids. Consciously nod hello to passersby. At the end of the day review what you did right. Tomorrow will be another opportunity to spread joy and kindness to your world. Tomorrow will be another opportunity to expand your world.

Spring is Here

2011-03-28T09:19:00.003-04:00

Spring officially arrived a week or so ago, but around here it still feels like winter. Don't fret! Take a good look around. Notice the rebirth of all those frozen, seemingly dead plants. Some still seem dead but there are signs of life. Check out new growth of those early spring bloomers: crocuses, daffadils and hyacinths. They're peeking through, some are even starting to bloom, despite the cold. Check out the lilac bushes. New growth is showing. You can even see which buds will turn into leaves and which ones will turn into those beautiful, fragrant flowers which, when cut and brought inside, provide a natural air freshener. That perfumed air forces you to inhale deeply and enjoy the return of another spring.
The return of spring is evidence of the perfect order of the Universe, inspiring us to realize how effortlessly good things can unfold if we but let them.
Don't let a day go by this spring without taking it all in. Pay attention as you go about your daily routine. Be in awe of this wonderful time of year.

Jim Ryan Talks - A Timely Idea

2010-11-30T14:59:00.002-05:00

Speaking French

2010-11-29T14:56:00.002-05:00

Saturday night we had the opportunity to host a couple from France at our home. I used to be a French teacher at Bethpage Junior High School 25 or so years ago. We have several French speaking people in our neighborhood, but I have rarely taken advantage of the opportunity to speak with them in their native tongue. So when this couple showed up it was a shock. My wife does not speak French, the husband spoke almost no English and the wife was about the same. It was an exhausting evening, trying to carry on a two hour conversation, totally in French.

Surprisingly, it turned out pretty well. We were able to share ideas, discuss family and generally carry on a semi-intelligent conversation. Actually, they were impressed with my accent, my sentence structure and my overall ablilty to speak and understand. The experience made me think that if could spend a week immersed in French, brushing up on my vocabulary, I could get back to being fluent. It was a tiring but fulfilling experience.

Who knows, maybe one day I will have my books translated into French. I would love to do a book tour in France, visiting all the beautiful spots and enjoying the fabulous food and world class wines. "La Joie de Vivre" is Simple Happiness to me in French.

Who You Really Are

2010-11-04T21:41:00.003-04:00

Try to avoid attachment to material things. There is certainly nothing wrong with having nice things. We should all be grateful for the blessings in our lives. However, you are more that the house you live in, the car you drive, the places you vacation, where your kids went to college. Material things can come and go but WHO YOUR REALLY ARE ENDURES.

This was the content of yesterday's "Aha Moment". I was on the phone with a friend this afternoon who told me that he was blown away by the message of yesterday's "Aha Moment".
He has been reading "Tuesdays with Maury", the story of a former college professor who was stricken with Lou Gehrig's disease. That was the exact message that he had gotten from reading that book just yesterday. The message really his home to him.

Enjoy your things, but focus more on cultivating the goodness from the inside that we are all called to develop.

A New Project

2010-09-23T17:13:00.002-04:00

I'll have some exciting news for everyone in the very near future. We are in the final planning stages of a new, expansive undertaking that will involve many, many people. Stay tuned as the rollout approaches.

Namaste

2010-09-21T21:52:00.002-04:00

Saying to yourself the Hindu word "Namaste" during the day whenever you encounter another person, whether on the street, at the bank, at the post office, wherever, can be a great reminder to live in the present moment.

Namaste means "the Divine in me recognizes the Divine in you". Saying it to yourself reminds you of the connection between us all. It fosters a focus on our similarities rather than on our differences. It reminds us to look beyone external features and be aware that inside we are all alike, all connected somehow. The more you say to yourself ,"Namaste," as you meet others, you may find yourself saying hello and smiling more often. Eye contact will be made and greetings exchanged. It's a small thing, but it could lead to big things.

Smile, It Lifts YOur Face Value

2010-09-12T20:09:00.002-04:00

Today try to smile at everyone who crosses your path. Give a little friendly nod, "Hello." Try it on your way to work, at work, at the bank or post office... Everywhere you go. Consciously smiling at the folks you meet is a great way to keep you in the present moment. You smile on purpose. It reminds you to see the Divine in the person at whom you are smiling. You feel good, being who you really are, one who brings joy to the world.
The folks who benefit from your smile may even smile back at you...no matter if they do or don't. Send out love with each smile. Let me know how it makes you feel.

Conversations With God

2010-07-20T09:54:00.003-04:00

I've been reading Conversations With God, written by Neale Donald Walsch. You may remember him from The Secret. I just thought I'd bring you a few excerpts that really hit me in this morning 's reading.

The format of the book is Neale asks God questions and God answers. Neale says, "I don't believe that whatever I ask, I get. My life has not been a testimony to that. In fact, I rarely get what I ask for. When I do, I consider myself damned lucky.

Here are some of God's answers:

I tell you this: You always get what you create, and you are always creating.

If you don't like what you've created, choose again. My job, as God is to always give you that opportunity.

Now you are telling Me that you haven't always gotten what you've wanted. Yet I'm here to tell you that you've always gotten what you called forth.

Your life is always a result of your thoughts about it - including your obviously creative thought that you seldom get what you choose.

So what is your intention now? Do you intend to prove your theory that life seldom brings you what you choose? Or do you intend to demonstrate Who You Really Are and Who I Am?

What powerful words from God. Pay attention to your thoughts and corresponding feelings. God is always ready to give us what we call forth. Call forth the things that fulfill your life. Call forth what you want not what you don't.

Wishing you Simple Happiness,

Jim Ryan

visit me at www.jimryantalks.com
sign up for my weekly "Aha Moments"

Two Busy Days

2010-05-29T05:47:00.003-04:00

This past Wednesday I packed up my stuff and went to NYC to attend the Book Expo America at the cavernous Javits Center. The show seemed a bit smaller than years past but huge nonetheless. I brought copies of my five-book proposal and visited many publishing houses looking for a book deal. The big houses won't even look at you unless you have an agent (I don't have one yet) and the smaller ones are all very cordial, but still tough to crack.
I learn something every time I go to the Expo (this is my third event). I will submit my proposal to several companies who expressed some interest, but I am going ahead with my plan regardless of their acceptance or rejection of my work. My plan is to write and publish a "Simple Happiness" series of books.
The next day, Thursday, I had taken a booth at the Hauppauge Industrial Association Annual Trade Show, the largest trade show on Long Island. Still pretty exhausted from my treck in and out of NYC. I arrived early and got set up for a day of meeting and greeting hundreds of trade show attendees.
This was a very different experience from the day before. At the Book Expo I saw only two people whom I knew all day long. Here on my home turf the faces were much more familiar. My materials and message were enthousiastically met by practically everyone who stopped to chat. Books and CD's were sold, hundreds signed up to receive my weekly emails, video testimonials of my book and "Aha Moments" were recorded. Many prospects for speaking opportunities presented themselves and asked to get more information.
It's a thrill to be recognized as one who is making a difference in the lives of others. A number of folks stopped and commented on my "Aha Moment" of the day before which focused on Kindness. The atmosphere around the booth was energetic and very upbeat. People really do want to be a little happier. I am so blessed to be in a position to offer practical steps and inspiration to some who are seeking.
Thanks to all for lifting my spirits and showing me that I am on the right path.

An Abundance Exercise

2010-05-18T19:22:00.003-04:00

This morning at the jail where I teach a weekly class in personal development, we did a very practical exercise. This is an exercise to foster an attitude of abundance, which is missing in so many lives. Feeling abundant is the first step in achieving abundance. Here we're talking about monetary abundance.
The assignment is to deposit an imaginary $250 into your checking account and spend it that same day on yourself. The second day you double the deposit to $500 and spend it that day on yourself. Write down what you would buy for yourself with this new found money. Pay attention to how good you feel. You can not save any of the money, you must spend it. The third day you double your deposit to $1,000 and spend it on yourself. And so on and so on doubling your deposit each day and spending it for thirty days.
Continue to review what you have purchased. If you want more financial abundance in your life you must get ready to receive it. This exercise prepares your mind to believe that it can happen to you. Have fun!

Beliefs

2010-04-01T20:14:00.005-04:00

We live our lives according to our beliefs. We think that our beliefs are the truth. We hang our hats on our beliefs, even if they don't make our lives more joyful and more fulfilled. But, do you know what? A belief is nothing more than a thought that we continually think. That's right. A belief is no more than an habitual way of thinking. You may not believe me but it's true. Our lives become a manifestation of the thoughts we think all day long. Start paying attention to the thoughts you hang on to.

Henry Ford said, "If you think you can, you can and if you think you can't, you're right."

Author Richard Bach said, "Argue for your limitations and they are yours."

Figure out what you want in life and start telling yourself that you are already who you want to be. Develop a mantra and say it to yourself all day long. Benjamin Zander wrote in his book, The Art of Possibility, "It's all made up anyway." Start making up your life the way you want it. For example, "I'm so happy and grateful that..." and you fill in the blank. Whatever you want to be, do or have. Start building your belief. Start thinking that success thought over and over. Say it to yourself over and over. Don't be deterred by some experience that doesn't bear out your mantra. Keep telling yourself your new truth, your new belief about yourself.

What have you got to lose. You've gotten to the place you are at by thinking the way you've always thought. Try to get to a better place by thinking better thoughts about yourself.

A better life is closer than you think. Just keep thinking better thoughts about yourself. Let me know how you do.

Sunrise

2010-03-21T13:58:00.005-04:00

Yesterday morning I got up at 5:15, got dressed and drove to Robert Moses State Park
which is an Atlantic ocean beach on the south shore of Long Island. I stopped at Dunkin Donuts and got a delicious cup of coffee. I found out that they open up at 4:30.am. Good to know.
I drove a half an hour in the dark to the beach. I parked the car and found my way over the dunes to the beach lit only by starlight. I had checked the weather forcast and was happy to see that it was correct as I gazed up at the stars on a clear dark sky. One or two boats lit up the far away horizon out in the ocean
I got there a bit early but was able to experience the entire dawning experience. At first the stars were fully visible, the sun having no effect on the night sky. It really is darkest just before dawn. In time the eastern sky began to become less dark but only by a little. Slowly the sun's light began to have it's way. From left to right the sky became less and less dark. Only the brightest stars could hold their own in the face of the still unrisen sun. I was alone the whole time waiting in darkness. Not even a sea gull squawking to disturb the gentil roar of the surf.
Songs with morning themes came into my head, "Morning Has Broken" by Cat Stevens, "Early in the Mornin" by Peter Paul and Mary, and several others that have more to do with waking with your lover than experiencing the beauty of the raw sunrise.
I took it all in and was rewarded with a glimpse of red, a bright orange slit of fire just above the ocean. Little by little it grew, brighter and brighter as it quickly showed its full brilliance in the east. At first I could look directly at it, but in a few minutes I had to look away quickly, unable to hold my glance more than a few seconds, blinded by the brilliance.
March is a good time to experience the sunrise here on Long Island. Cold, but not freezing and the position of the sun is still low enough in the sky so it rises out of the ocean and not over land as it will later in Spring and Summer. What a morning. I stand in awe of the earth's Creator. It was a real "Aha Moment" - A moment of "Simple Happiness". What a joy to bask in the wonders of creation.

PIPER Conference

2010-03-06T09:02:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I gave a presentation at the second annual PIPER (People Improving Peer Empowerment Recovery) Conference. It was held at Touro Law School in Central Islip, NY. My presentation on Simple Happiness - Eight Characteristics of Happy People was very well attended and very well received. However it was far from the highlight of the day.

Deb Damone, founder of PIPER and who is recovering from mental illness herself, told her story at the end of the morning session. It was unlike any life's experience I had ever heard. Her's is a story of survival. She has survived traumatic experiences of her youth and has turned a severe mental condition into a story of hope and inspiration for anyone who suffers from mental illness.

Through PIPER, Deb uses her considerable skills and talents to bring hope and practical ideas to those who partake in her program. She encourages her students to become advocates for others who struggle daily with the issues of mental illness. She brings in speakers from far and wide to enhance the learning experience of her students. Deb continues to develop new programs to challenge her students to continually reach higher in their efforts to overcome their sometimes deep seated disabilities.

You never really know what is going on inside a person's head. You never know what struggles a person could be dealing with in their daily life. Yesterday was a lesson in love, compassion and inspiration and determination. Thanks you Deb.

Deb will be appearing at the Book Revue in Huntington at 7:00 pm on April 6, 2010. She will be giving a talk and signing copies of her book, "The Ominous Betrayal: Memoir of a Child of Hope". If you are suffering from any mental illness or know someone who is, you must attend this event and get her book.
Contact Deb @ deb_damone@yahoo.com

A Step Forward

2010-02-25T22:20:00.002-05:00

Today I installed in my computer a client contact system called ACT. It will make my business life more organized. I am always a bit late to the technology game, but as they say, "When the student is ready the teacher will appear." I am ready. All my speaking contacts will be in one place. My notes and follow-ups will be organized and efficient. There will be no more ,"Oops, I forgot to call that guy!"'s. I'm looking forward to loading up all my info. I feel good.
Just another step along the way to a life of Simple Happiness.

Meditation

2010-02-24T17:22:00.002-05:00

Everyone can derive benefits from meditation. You don't have to be a Buddhist monk or live far away in the wilderness. Meditation is available to us all. Even Olympians meditate. Gold medal winning snowboarder Shawn White attributes much of his success to the practice of meditation.
You need no special outfit. It's actually free, although some enjoy taking classes to insure getting off on the right foot.
Meditation is simply quieting the mind, simply being. All you need to do is be quiet and breathe. The real benefit is derived from doing it on a regular basis. Make it part of your day. Start slowly, maybe five minutes. Sit quietly in a comfortable position and breathe. Pay attention to the physical aspect of your breathing. A thought will come in to your head. Notice it as a thought, let it go and return to your conscious breathing. Like anything you will get better with time. The more you practice the better you get.
Let me know how you do.
It's another simple step you can take along your way to a life of simple happiness.

Accountability For Your Happiness

2010-02-23T17:10:00.017-05:00

This morning, as I do every Tuesday morning, I went to the DWI Alternative Facility in Yaphank, NY, to teach my class in personal development to the men there. This morning’s topic was the eight characteristics of happy people. The men, as usual, were attentive and engaged. We spent the most time on the second characteristic, accountability. That is, happy people realize that they are responsible for their own happiness. They don’t play the blame game: no blaming divorced parents, birth order or alcoholism or anything else for that matter.

Happy people say, “I am the person I am standing here today as a result of every choice that I’ve ever made in my life.” Now, as scary as that thought is, if you can buy into that concept, it can be just as empowering. If my choices are what make my life what it is, all I have to do is start making different choices. This only can happen with much introspection.

Helen Keller said it best, “Self pity is our worst enemy. If we yield to it we can never do anything wise in this world.” Sure, we all feel sorry for ourselves from time to time. Now is the time to start paying attention to our thoughts, especially the dis-empowering ones. Now is the time to stop hanging on to thoughts of self pity as we realize that self pity gets us nowhere. The next time you notice yourself feeling sorry for yourself, let go of that thought and replace it with a thought of gratitude. Be accountable. Taking responsibility for your own well being is a major step on your way to a life of Simple Happiness.

Jim Ryan's Aha #103 - Testimonial Dinner

2010-02-23T14:23:00.009-05:00

Jim Ryan's Aha #103

Get together with your neighbors
and give a testimonial dinner to
your oldest neighbor, if they deserve it.
It will be an event that will never be forgotten.

To receive your personal copy of Jim Ryan's Aha Moments every Wednesday, go to www.jimryantalks.com to subscribe. You'll be glad you did!

Cheer Up, It'll Help with Your Heart

2010-02-22T09:16:00.003-05:00

A recent study conducted by researchers at Columbia University found that happy people are less likely to have heart problems than those who are not so happy. So if you are a tee-totaling non smoker but are a grump, beware. That grumpiness could be what gets you.

Cheer up, lighten up. Stop taking yourself so seriously. These positive attributes will not only make your life more fun, they could make your life longer and healthier as well.

I wish you all life of Simple Happiness.

Video Aha Moments

2010-02-11T21:28:00.002-05:00

I just started to add a short video to go along with my weekly "aha moments". I just bought a new little flip camera and am really enjoying putting them together. My associate, Maggie Kalas, is doing a great job editing and producing them. They start with a little music which has a nice beat, then the cover of my book Simple Happiness scrolls down to the music. I give my little talk which lasts a minute or so and I close by wishing everyone a life of Simple Happiness.

They are available on You Tube and my hope is to widen my audience, to enlarge my territory, according to the prayer of Jabez.

I hope you like them.

Jim Ryan's Aha #102 - Compliment Your Children

2010-02-04T20:53:00.014-05:00

Jim Ryan's Aha #102

Compliment your children today.
Tell them why you’re proud of them.
If you have no children, compliment your parents.
Don’t be stingy with your affection.

To receive your personal copy of Jim Ryan's Aha Moments every Wednesday, go to www.jimryantalks.com to subscribe. You'll be glad you did!

A New Internet Presence

2010-02-03T21:28:00.003-05:00

I bought myself a flip camera last week and have been experimenting with it these past few days. I finally will be able to post videos on You Tube. It is my intention to post a video every Wednesday morning to accompany my weekly "Aha Moments". I am very excited about the potential to reach many more folks who are interested in living more fulfilled, joyful lives. I'm sure there will be a few bumps in the road as we embark on this new venture, but in time they will get more and more professional. I hope to spread my "Simple Happiness" message more effectively with this new venue.

What a Great Book!

2010-01-28T21:38:00.009-05:00

A friend recommended two books to me: The Four Hour Work Week, by Tim Ferris and The Magic of Thinking Big, by Howard Schwartz (I think his name is Howard). I started The Four Hour Work Week and it has been worth every minute of time spend with it. This morning I was reading a section about automating a business. I was so excited I thought my hair would catch on fire.

He got me fired up again about the potential of the internet. I have so much content to share with the world. I'm about to venture into the world of YouTube and Facebook. I just bought a new flip camera and am going to start adding video to my already popular "Aha Moments". Who knows where this will go, but I sure feel good about the possibilities. Stay tuned and see what develops.

In any case, pick up The Four Hour Work Week. It will get you thinking differently about a lot of things.

Limiting Beliefs

2009-12-30T06:13:00.003-05:00

A belief is nothing more that a thought that we continually think about. It becomes comfortable. We feel that it is the truth. The problem is that many of our beliefs are limiting. We constantly tell ourselves that we can't do this or we can't do that. Who says so? We say so. And because we tell ourselves over and over, we begin to believe that it is true.

Start to pay attention and notice when a limiting thought shows up in your head. Ask yourself, "What if the opposite were true?" Picture yourself in your mind's eye doing what your thought told you that you can't do. Wow, maybe I can get my degree, or, maybe I can look for a more fulfilling job, or, maybe I can lose those pounds, or, maybe I can read a book every month. Start living up to your untapped potential.

We can change our beliefs. Imagine your life if you got rid of even one limiting belief. What are you waiting for? Simple Happiness is waiting just around that limiting belief.

Christmas is Just Around the Corner

2009-12-23T15:13:00.002-05:00

Christmas is just around the corner. Can you believe it? Christmas falling on a Friday gives us a chance to really experience the Love of the season, no matter what your faith. Soon all the hustle and bustle will be behind us. Gifts given and received. It's really the thought that counts.

Take some private time every day and consider what this time of year means to you. Don't let this holiday season pass you buy in a blur. Express the love you feel to family, friends and strangers. Let this coming weekend be the start of something good.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all my friends.

With much love,
Jim

Drug Court Graduation

2009-12-21T17:15:00.002-05:00

I was invited to give the graduation address at Suffolk County Drug Court a week ago. It was an interesting experience. There were about 20 graduates present but the room was filled. There were well over 100 people, family, friends, counselors, and support team members. The 20 graduates had the choice of jail or getting clean. These graduates succeeded in meeting all the requirements necessary to graduate. They showed up in front of the Judge, Honorable Jerry Asher of Huntington, NY, every week. They got tested and received counseling every week. They may have received counseling more than once a week, I'm not sure.

The diplomas were handed out by the probation officers who dealt with each of the graduates. The three probation officers spoke personally and with pride of each grad. Some toed the line right from the outset, others needed more prodding. There was a real love for the graduates expressed by the probation officers.

My talk was well received. I felt honored to be part of the rehab of these 20. My prayers go out to them for their continued success on the road which will certainly not be any easier than what they've already been through.

I am truly happy and feel blessed that my own children have escaped this side of life.

The Hudson River

2009-11-07T21:00:00.002-05:00

I've lived in New York State all my life but I know very little about the Hudson River and the Hudson River Valley. My wife read an article in the Martha Stewart Living magazine last week. It was a pictorial article about Boscabel, a Mansion that was built originally in the early 1800's and later rebuilt and moved in the 1950's to its current spot overlooking the mighty Hudson River.
We got in the car this morning, map in hand, and made our way to Cold Spring, NY just north of Boscabel. What a glorious fall day. The sky was blue, the air crisp and the crowds were small. On the way, we passed through Fhanestock State Park and saw groups of hikers out enjoying God's breathtaking landscapes. Wow! hiking! Talk about getting close to nature without great expense.
I think what I want to say is that there is such natural beauty and grandeur within a two hour drive that we never even contemplate experiencing. So often we put things off and stick around home, not really doing anything of much import.
Today, standing on the bank of the Hudson River right across from the US Military Academy at West Point gave me a real thrill. I was in awe of that river. It's just so wide. I just stood there imagining the first European explorers sailing up the river wondering what was around the next bend.
Oh yea, the Boscabel mansion was great too.
Get off your block and spend a day exploring.

I Feel Inspired

2009-11-06T08:23:00.002-05:00

I feel particularly inspired this morning. I'm just about finished reading Wayne Dyer's new book Excuses Begone. He has a real ability to lay things out in a very understandable way. I feel very relaxed and confident in what I am doing. It's not about me and my success as a speaker or author. It's about my aligning with my life's purpose. My job here is to open people's minds to the possibilities of living a life of joy and fulfillment. It is to help folks see that this kind of life is available to everyone, not just a few.
This is a feeling that I would love to experience over and over again. It energizes me. It makes all my cares and worries dissapear as I venture into today. There is a lot to do and my joy lies in the doing. I don't feel any pressure as I am aligned with my Divine Source.
It's enough to be on your way.
I wonder what good will come my way today. I wonder whose life I can make a little bit better today.
To all with much love,
Jim

Old Music

2009-11-03T20:37:00.003-05:00

I was just listening to and watching some music from my youth which still excites me. I typed in John Stewart on YouTube and found the guy I was looking for, not the tv talk show host/comedian. This John Stewart was a member of the Kingston Trio way back when folk music was getting rolling.
When I was 10 or 11 years old my older brother had some Kingston Trio records (331/3). We had no record player but every once in a while he would borrow one from a friend. When he played those songs something stirred inside me . The guitars, the harmonies, the stories just lifted me up. I was excited to the core of my being. I'll never forget that feeling, sitting on the floor of our living room in Schenectady, NY.
It was in the summer before my junior year of high school. I was working as a busboy in a snack bar at a rest stop along the NYS Thruway. I was working with all girls, mostly college kids. One night the boyfriend of one of them came along with an old guitar. We were sitting at the picnic table out back taking a break. I remember, he took a plastic spoon and broke it in half to use as a pick to play the guitar. He sang those same songs that had stirred me so right from the beginning.
It was that night that I decided that I would learn to play the guitar. I made a deal with the guy that night, trading my older brother's bongo drums for that old guitar. When I told my brother about the deal I had made he admonished me, "Ok, you can trade my bongo drums for the guitar but just promise me that you won't let the guitar sit around like I've done with my bongo drums." The rest is history. I ended up quitting my summer job because it got in the way of my learning to play that unforgettable guitar. My fingers bled from holding down those metal strings, but it was totally worth it.
That fall I made my first appearance singing in my high school's hootenany. Teaching myself to play the guitar is the best thing I've ever done in my life. (that's a slight exageration but it's right up there.)
To be continued...

Live With Passion

2009-11-02T20:48:00.002-05:00

Be passionate about something. Be enthousiastic about something. Get excited about your life. The word enthousiasm comes from the Greek, en theos, which means with God. When you do something with enthousiasm you are getting in touch with your higher self. You are experiencing life the way it was meant to be lived. Abraham Lincoln said that it's not the years of you life that are important but the life in your years. Someone else said that it's not the number of breaths that you take that is important but the experiences that take your breath away that matter.
What makes you feel most alive? What activity that you engage in makes time fly by making you wonder where the time went? Find that activity. Make time to engage in it. Don't let weak excuses get in the way of your living the life that you were meant to live.
At the end of life people don't regret what they did, but they regret what they didn't do.
The difinition of old age is when regrets take the place of dreams. How about it? What are you waiting for?

Argue for Your Limitations and They Are Yours

2009-10-28T20:26:00.002-04:00

Listen to your self talk. Pay attention to what thoughts you think about yourself. Many of you spend a lot of time telling yourselves reasons why you shouldn't try this or do that. You tell yourself that you want something but then go ahead and figure out why you can't get it or do it or be it. You stop yourself before you even get started. Listen to the excuses you make up: it's too hard, I'm too old, I don't have the proper training and on and on and on.
When you notice yourself focusing on your limitations, say to yourself, "Oops, there I go again". That's the time to tell yourself a different story . Stop resisting. Stop saying why you can't. Start thinking how worthy you are to have what you want. Start thinking about who you really are. You were put on this earth to be a joyfull, fulfilled, loving person. You were put here to develop your talents, whatever they are. You were put here to be the best you you can be and have fun being your best.
Start spending time every day picturing your perfect life. Feel how good it feels picturing your success. Feel the empowerment deep inside when you stop focusing on what might go wrong. Who cares what someone else might say. This is your life. Be the one who inspires others. Start today. Release the resistance and start having fun.

Feed Your Mind

2009-10-27T21:38:00.002-04:00

I've been teaching a course in personal development in our local jail system for almost ten years now. I go there first thing on Tuesday morning. It is probably the most fulfilling time of the week for me. What an opportunity I have to experience living my life's purpose. There is no question that I get as much or more out of those 45-50 minutes than anyone in the class.
This morning we watched the first half of "The Secret". All eyes were rivoted on the tv. I have seen the movie at least ten times but every time I view it I pick up new things. It reinforces patterns of thought. It tells me again that I must continue to feed my mind daily. It's a hopeful message with specific instructions on how to fashion your life the way you want it to be. Great lessons to be had. All we have to do is seek.
Feed your mind every day.

How Amazing is Science?

2009-10-21T21:41:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I was going on and on about how everything science has proven has eventually been overturned. Well last night the science was correct. Scientists predicted that there would be a meteor shower last night between 1:00 and 6:00 am with the heaviest concentration occuring just before 6:00 am. Sure enough, when I got up this morning at 5:40, got dressed and went outside there is was... a meteor shower. Actually I wouldn't call it a shower. It was more like one meteor every two minutes.

I sat on a lawn chair in my driveway where I had a wide view of the sky and watched, eyes wide open, looking pretty much straight ahead. Here and there appeared a quick, darting light, lasting just a split second. There was no denying it; the scientists were right on the money this time.

I watched for about 15 minutes then went inside to make my morning coffee. I felt satisfied that, if I had to report to my Creator, I would be able to give Him a blow by blow account of the meteor shower. I certainly was enjoying His Creation. The only thing missing was someone to share it with. It's always more fun when you can share the oooohs, and the aaaaahs. Maybe next time.

Is Science Wrong Again?

2009-10-20T21:19:00.003-04:00

Pretty much everything we've ever thought was scientifically true has been eventually proven false.
1. The sun revolves around the earth
2. The world is flat
3. Bleeding the patient cures him
4. Eggs are bad for you
5. Nuclear physics

It's just a matter of time until science catches up with some new discovery which supercedes past truisms. It's not that science is wrong, it's just that man's understanding of the universe continues to develop and evolve.

I've been telling my audiences that "psychological studies show" that about 50% of our happiness quotient is based on our genetic make-up; about 10% of our happiness quotient is derived from our life situation; and the remaining 40% is up to us, that is, what do we decide to do the the other 60%.

In his new book, Excuses, Begone!, Wayne Dyer contends that we can override our genetic make-up by changing our beliefs. What an exciting idea! Outer space is still on the frontier of scientific exploration, but close on its heels is the study of the mind and human potential. You'll see.
What will the world look like as more and more of us tap into our limitless potential for good?

If Necessary, Use Words

2009-10-17T13:41:00.003-04:00

This morning while reading the paper I came across a quote that I have prominantly displayed near the front of my book, Simple Happiness. It is a quote from St. Francis of Assisi. To me it is a quote that embodies the total message of Christianity. It even completes what Jesus taught when asked what were the two greatest Commandments. Jesus said the first and greatest commandment was to love God with your whole mind your whole heart and your whole soul and the second greatest commandment was to love your neighbor as yourself.

A song comes to mind that we used to sing in church -" They will know we are Christians by our Love, by our Love. They will know we are
Christians by our Love." How simple is that.

Back to the quote from St. Francis.
In medieval times the followers of St. Francis wanted to know what to do when they took to the streets. "Tell everyone about the Love of God", St. Francis advised. "If necessary, use words."

A Physical Crossroad

2009-10-12T12:50:00.003-04:00

My son and daughter in law were visiting from Boston two weeks ago to attend a family wedding. It was a great weekend. The wedding was on Sunday, my son and daughter in law arrived Friday night so we had all day Saturday to have fun. My son and I played 9 holes of golf and got home at about 10:30 just in time to enjoy a bountiful breakfast prepared by my wife. We chatted about many things one of which was tennis. I suggested that we go to the local high school courts and hit a bit. The three of us hit the courts - my son on one side and my daughter in law and I on the other.
What an eye opening experience for me. Granted I haven't played tennis in about one year, but I used to be a pretty decent player. I couldn't move at all. I could only return the ball if it was hit right back to me. I was embarrassed by my poor play. They were both outplaying me. I struggled for about an hour before calling it quits.
I realized that I was at a physical crossroads. I had a choice to make. Either I could forget about playing tennis for the rest of my life and just stick to golf... Or I could make an effort to get back into some kind of shape that would allow me not to embarrass myself of the courts. All of my children play tennis and now even my grandaughter is beginning to take lessons. This could be a very pleasant family activity that I would love to participate in.
Certainly I would only be able to participate if I could get my legs and wind back. I have been walking two miles about five mornings a week, but that has done nothing for my quickness and ability to move to get to the tennis ball.
So I decided. I'm not ready to give up on tennis just yet. I have begun a conditioning regimen which now includes jogging along with the walking. My goal is to build up to jogging one mile without stopping. I've been out every morning that it hasn't been raining. It's going to happen. That is my intention.

Watch Less TV

2009-10-07T21:32:00.006-04:00

Comedian Groucho Marx said,"Television can be very educational. Every time someone turns it on I go into another room and read a good book."
There are so many good books to read. We claim that we have no time to read. Keep track of how many hours you are in from of the tv each day. Fill one hour with a more productive activity: read a book, take a walk, ride your bike, play cards with your kids, tinker in your workshop, learn to play a musical instrument, write a poem. In short, use that one hour to follow your bliss.

There’s More There than Meets the Eye

2009-10-05T21:27:00.003-04:00

I went to Dunkin Donuts tonight to get a cup of coffee as I often do. I feel that the caffeine helps me stay awake so I can do some reading or writing. I also just love Dunkin Donuts coffee. Usually either Jorge or Rich is there to serve me. Jorge always has my coffee ready for me as soon as I walk in. Medium, milk, one sugar. He always makes me feel good. He works hard, sometimes six or seven 14 hour days per week. I have much respect for him.

Tonight Rich was there. He always takes an interest in my talks, asking me where I’ve been recently. He is very well read. One area of interest is Eastern Religions. I mentioned to him that I had just finished a small book by Thich Nhat Hanh which was given to me by a friend. Rich knew all about him having read many of his books. He even promised me that he will bring one of his books in next week for me to borrow.

I love getting to know people who work in service businesses. So often when you engage them in conversation they reveal much more going on inside them than we might at first give them credit for. It happens over and over to me. Don’t be too quick to make judgments about people because they might work serving coffee in Dunkin Donuts. Be sure that more often than not, there’s more there than meets the eye.

P.S. I hope you had a chance to check out the moon tonight – absolutely glorious.

A Full Moon

2009-10-04T21:31:00.003-04:00

I hope you had a chance to check out the sky on Sunday night. There was a beautiful full moon shining brilliantly illuminating the sky.

When I die and meet my maker and when He asks me, “How did you enjoy me Creation?” I’m going to tell Him that every night before going to bed I checked out the sky. I enjoyed gazing at the stars on cloudless nights and at times the beautiful full, half or crescent moons. I don’t know much about astronomy, just that God created a huge wonderful universe for all of us to enjoy, both night and day. Thanks. I am in awe of it all.

Criminal Justice Class

2009-10-03T16:30:00.005-04:00

Last evening I gave a guest lecture to a criminal justice class at Nassau Community College. I was invited by my friend Rene Fiechter, an assistant district attorney in Nassau County, who teaches the class. I arrived in a timely manner and at the appropriate time I stood to address the class. It has been a long time since I stood in front of a class full of students (I’m a former junior high school French and Italian teacher). I was a bit nervous looking into the blank stares of about thirty 18-20 year olds.

I gave it my best, opening up with a song I (which met with mild approval) and continuing for an hour or so. There were some smiles at the funny parts but for the most part they seemed detached. One young man raised his hand at one point and suggested that my message would be great for an AA meeting. I took that to be a positive contribution. I closed with a song which was followed my more polite applause mostly at the urging of Rene, my friend.

I encouraged them to fill out an evaluation paper, while I sang my last song, grading me and asking them for feedback. The evaluation also gives them the opportunity to sign up for my email list. I felt good when at the end of my portion of the class before they took a break several young people came to me asking to purchase a copy of my book, Simple Happiness, 52 Easy Ways to Lighten Up.

When I got home I sat down to read the evaluations. A broad smile took over my face as I read their feedback:

“This talk will really affect my outlook on life and keep a positive outlook on life and to be unafraid of failure and pursue my passions to obtain true happiness.”

“I liked the whole message and the songs. Thank you for coming to speak to us”

“Jim is good at expressing points, establishing appreciation, getting the audience to listen and think”

“I loved the speech and especially the quotes.”

“It was good, I was able to learn a lot.”

“I learned a lot about compassion. Your talk reminded me a lot of the book, The Secret.”

"I really enjoyed the whole thing. It was very inspiring."

It’s a real lesson for me to not assume anything about the audience just by observing their body language. It’s up to me to maintain my energy despite what might seem to be in the minds of the audience. There’s always more there than meets the eye.

Enjoy Creation

2009-10-01T22:21:00.009-04:00

I’ve been enjoying the National Park special that has been airing on PBS. I visited many of them years ago with a good friend when I was in my twenties. What majesty, what grandeur. It is truly a spiritual experience to be in the presence of such natural beauty.

Before going to bed tonight I walked outside to check out the nighttime sky, as I often do. Tonight the sight was a real beauty. A nearly full moon light up the sky, its brightness lessening the effect of the stars. The wispy white clouds passing by couldn’t dim the moon’s magnificence.

An old friend of mine who is a Christian Brother sent me a Christmas card a few years ago that he had made himself on his computer. It was a simple design with a message on the inside.

When we die and go to heaven to meet our Maker, one of the questions that Almighty God will ask us is, "How have you enjoyed my Creation."

It’s a good question to ask ourselves now, while we still have an opportunity to do something about it.

Mindfulness

2009-10-01T20:56:00.009-04:00

A dear friend let me borrow a book yesterday--Be Free Where You Are-- written by a Vietnamese Buddhist monk named Thich Nhat Hanh. I read the first few pages this morning and was struck with the simplicity of his message--"we are all capable of living mindfully." The only requirement is to pay attention to what you are doing while you are doing it.

If you have never experienced doing something mindfully you can start right now. By living mindfully your days will be filled with the fullness of life.

You will begin to appreciate the simple activity of drinking a glass of water. Don’t just drink the glass of water so you can get done with it. Experience the drinking in its totality. Be there while you are drinking.

Practice walking mindfully. Enjoy each step in your journey to pick up the morning paper from your driveway. Enjoy each step you take as you carry the dishes from the dinner table to the sink. What a blessing to be able to walk freely and effortlessly.

You can practice mindfulness when you eat. Before you start, look at your food. Smile at it. This food is what sustains your bodily health. As you pick up and eat your sting beans, consider the color, texture and taste. Realize that this sting bean has grown from a tiny seed. How many tasty string beans have grown from a single seed placed in the ground. Be grateful for the sunshine the soil and the rain that have all contributed to the maturation of this single bean.

Start with the practice of mindfulness when drinking, walking and eating. Cultivate the habit of mindfulness in these areas and see how you feel. You don’t watch a movie with the goal of getting to the end. You watch a movie with the goal of enjoying every aspect of it – the scenery, the dialogue, the special effects, the story, the actors, the intrigue – everything.

Start treating each day with that same mindfulness. Enjoy it all. It’s all good.

Shower the People You Love With Love

2009-06-13T17:50:00.002-04:00

Sometimes we're so caught up in our day to day activities we forget about those closest to us. We often take them for granted. Hug your wife (husband, lover). Give your kids a kiss. Kid around with them. Spend time with them focusing on what's important to them.
Call your mother, your father or your brothers and sisters.
Tell your kids that you're proud of them.
Thank your wife for making a great dinner.
Thank your wife for doing the laundry.
Tell her she looks beautiful today.
Think up ways to make those around you feel good.

Federation of Organizations

2009-06-05T05:49:00.002-04:00

I'm excited about giving a talk today at the Federation of Organizations Annual Appreciation Luncheon. This is a national organization which coordinates senior volunteers. I believe it's mostly or totally a women's group. They either participate in helping little kids learn to read (surragate grandparents) or they visit shut-ins.
They must be a very positive group of people. I can't wait to share my insights on happiness with them. No doubt the energy in the room will be palpable. I'll let you know how it goes.
I am so blessed to be in a position to empower and inspire folks.
I'm sure I will learn a ton today.
Lord, how may I serve?

The Shift

2009-06-03T21:25:00.003-04:00

I went to the Book Expo America at the Javits Center in New York City last Saturday. It was a valuable experience for me in my search to determine the best course of action for me is to get my book, Simple Happiness, published.
Perhaps the best thing that happened was getting my hands on Wayne Dyer's new movie, The Shift. It's a full length movie that really gets to the heart of the true meaning of what The Secret was trying to get across. Wayne explains things in terms that we can all understand. The various subplots portray real life for the most part.
Wayne explains that we attract into our lives things that line up with who we are, not necessarily with what we want. In simple terms he explains how critical our relationship with our Divine Source is. He uses the biblical quote, "With God ALL things are possible" What part of "ALL" don't you understand? he poionts out throughout the movie.
For me it was a very emotional experience. It opened my eyes again to the possibilities of complete joy that exist for us here on earth. I hope everyone has the opportunity to experience this movie. Wayne Dyer is truly a blessing.

Hauppauge Industrial Association Trade Show

2009-05-29T16:16:00.005-04:00

Last Thursday, May 21,2009, I participated in the Hauppauge Industrial Association Trade Show. It is one of the largest, if not the largest, trade shows on Long Island. It was a full day of meeting and chatting with folks from all over. I took advantage of this marketing opportunity to meet hundreds of new prospects. Some had an interest in my Simple Happiness talks and some had an interest in my best selling book, Simple Happiness, 52 Easy Ways to Lighten Up.

Just seeing the book brings a smile to your face; the bright yellow cover and the catchy title always produce a smile even from those sporting long faces.

In the afternoon, I had the opportunity to meet one of my fellow exhibitors, George Bouklas, Ph.D., of Bouklas Group. At the urging of another fellow exhibitor, Paula Parish, George stopped by and began to stir things up. His booming voice and contageous energy caused an instant storm of interest in my book and talks. "This man (me) is a genius" he bellowed. "How can you pass up the opportunity to grab this life-changing book! He's practically giving it away! Simple Happiness for only twelve bucks!" And people stopped to check it out. And they bought it. They walked away happy that they had made an investment in themselves. George was happy to bring attention to my efforts. I was certainly happy to sell more books which will spread the word. Most of all I was happy to meet George.

Opportunities show up in all kinds of different ways. I met all kinds of people at the Trade Show, but I have a sneaking suspicion that meeting George Bouklas, PhD will turn out to be the most meaningful result of my Trade Show efforts.

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T22:02:00.002-04:00

We had a really nice Mother's Day today. The family was here. Mom had a break from cooking - bagels for breakfast, terrific sushi for dinner (Mom actually did make some penne a la vodka for those who may not have been crazy for the sushi). My son Lou and I managed to remove an old refridgerator and an old freezer from the basement (that was Mom's best gift). Gina brought some quality gifts, Lou and Colleen brought a beautiful rose plant and Joe called this morning and had a nice chat with his Mom. Mom was very happy all day. Love was present in all the conversations and comments.
Why not make every day Mother's Day, or Father's Day or family day. The love expressed by laughter and joking as a family is a joy to experience. It's so great to experience a fun Mother's Day. Let's bring those warm loving feelings to mind as we go about our day tomorrow and the next day and the next and...
Listen to each other. Support each other. Feel the energy of Unconditional Love that is available to us all.

WOW-AWESOME-HUMBLING

2009-04-20T21:30:00.003-04:00

I went to a Women's Business Expo today. I met a woman who just made my day. She had read my book, "Simple Happiness, 52 Easy Ways to Lighten Up" and has been enjoying my weekly "Aha Moments" for quite some time. When I introduced myself to her, her face completely lit up. She was genuinely thrilled to meet me. She went on to tell me that she had given a copy of my book to someone in FL (I can't remember if it was her sister, a relative or a friend). That person had been experiencing some difficulties in her life. She related to me that reading my book had changed her life.
How's that for a validating experience!
It filled me with such joy to realize that my work is able to have such an effect on people. At that moment I don't think I could have felt any happier. It was a truly blissful moment. To me it was like a glimpse of heaven. What an awesome, humbling experience. I am so blessed.

Say "YES" to Opportunities

2009-04-19T06:11:00.003-04:00

I was invited to be on fundraising committee to raise money for two events scheduled to take place on the east end of Long Island. Ann Liguori, a client/friend of mine invited me. These past few years I been saying "Yes" to opportunities, so I went. Ann aked me to say a few words and sing a couple of songs to close out the meeting.
Ann is a wonderful woman who is a sports radio personality and a pioneer in women's sports broadcasting. She and her committee have raised millions over the past ten years or so, mostly for the AmericanCancer Society. She is now focusing her efforts mostly on raising money for charities which deal with local children. I was very impressed by the people at the meeting; good, regular people quietly doing good. People using their time and talents so that others lives might be better.
If you are ever invited to take part in a local fundraising effort, I suggest that you strongly consider getting involved. It will bring out the best in you and who knows where it might lead you. When someone opens a door for you, walk through and enjoy the experience.

Find What You Love to Do and Do It

2009-04-14T22:29:00.003-04:00

I get so excited every time I apply for a speaking job. I just feel so confident that if I am hired I will deliver a memorable program that will inspire and empower the audience.
I've been giving talks in the public for the past six years and every time I stand in front of a group my energy level soars. I love connecting with the audience. The challenge is to customize the talk to each specific audience. That has been my focus for the past two years now. Preparation really pays off.
I feel so blessed to be in this position.
Find what you love to do and do it.

Do What YOU Love

2009-04-13T13:22:00.002-04:00

What makes you happy?

What do you love to do?

Find out what it is…then arrange your life so you can do more of it.

Jim Ryan

P.S. If you're on Long Island or the NYC area, check out my upcoming workshop "Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life" on April 25, 2009.

Aha Moment #18 - Your Perspective Matters

2009-03-26T15:05:00.005-04:00

Here's a story to consider:

Two sneaker companies each send a marketing representative to a small African country to assess the prospects of business expansion.

One representative sends back an e-mail saying, "It's a dead end; everyone is barefoot."

The other representative sends back his e-mail saying, "The sky is the limit; everyone is barefoot!"

Free yourself from your old, limiting attitudes. Embrace the exhilarating freedom that is yours as you shed your negativity for something better, much better.

Why not? It's all made up anyway!

Jim Ryan

http://www.jimryantalks.com/

Aha Moment #17 When You Change the Way You Look at People, the People You Look at Change

2009-02-28T12:41:00.003-05:00

By changing the way you look at people, the people you look at change. Remind yourself of their good qualities. See the divine side in everyone.
Blessings,
Jim Ryan

There's More Than Meets the Eye

2009-02-27T06:15:00.012-05:00

Today as you go about your day take note of your reaction to people who cross your path. What do you think of them? Do you decide what they are like by their looks, by their clothes, by their gait? Many of us do.
Today when a person crosses your path ascribe positive qualities to him. Say to yourself, "He's probably very intelligent"; "He's probably a loving father"; "I'll bet she has a kind word for everyone"; "She could be a very spiritual person"; "He could know more about world affairs that I do"; "She's probably someone's best friend" and on and on. Try changing your toughts in this small exercise. See how you feel. It will be a step in the right direction.
Blessings,
Jim Ryan

Winter and Spring, The Recession and the Recovery

2009-02-09T13:36:00.003-05:00

It’s been a cold Winter. Sometimes it seems that Spring will never come. But guess what! It’s on its way. Notice the days growing longer as the sun rises a little further north in the eastern sky every morning. We can mope around complaining or we can enjoy the final days of Winter and rejoice in the anticipation of Spring.We face a similar choice in dealing with today’s economy. So far we have recovered from every recession we’ve ever experienced. We can’t deny the pain some are experiencing, however we don’t have to spread gloom wherever we go either. Be the one at work who lightens things up, who lifts the spirits of those who work with us. Let your focus be on what folks are doing to get us out of this mess. Even better, focus on what you can do. Be part of the solution.
Blessings,
Jim Ryan

Aha Moment # 16 Stop Taking Yourself so Seriously

2009-02-06T05:41:00.000-05:00

Stop taking yourself so seriously. It’s okay for you to be wrong. Catch someone doing something right

Aha Moment #15 Live a Life of Purpose

2009-01-30T06:25:00.001-05:00

Today is the day to begin to live a life of purpose (if you haven’t so far). Decide what you want your legacy to be.

Positive Energy

2009-01-27T15:43:00.004-05:00

We all have things that bring us down from time to time. Sometimes they are real concerns, ie. children, finances, health, employment to name a few. In today's world there is certainly enough bad news to latch on to. Sometimes the worries can be vague, and sometimes they can be concrete. These issues can really sap the energy from our psyche and slow down our momentum.

What's the answer? One answer for sure is to have a positive friend to turn to. A friend who views you and the world in a bright, positive light, one who reminds you that these circumstances are just that, circumstances. They are not the essence of your life, they are not the essence of who you really are. It's great to have a person to lift you up, to help get you back on track. It's a blessing to have a friend who can spark your energy and light your fire again.

One final thought... As great as it is to have a friend you can turn to in time of low energy...it's just as great to BE that kind of friend.

Aha Moment #14 Love Your Grown Children

2009-01-20T05:48:00.001-05:00

If you have grown children your main job is to love them. The circle of life continues to go around. New generations are born. Roles change. Tell your kids how proud you are of them. Love them more then ever and leave it at that.

I'm Here and I'm Ready

2009-01-17T11:39:00.003-05:00

I just listened to an audio cassette that I bought on www.Amazon.com, entitled I'm Here and I'm Ready by Dr. John Pelizza. It was really good. I knew everything he was talking about, but hearing it from a different perspective, in a different style, is valuable. As I listened I thought to myself how effective he was with his live audience. Then I realized that I can't be him. I have to be myself to be authentic. I can take some of his perspectives and add them to my message, but the delivery and style has to be mine, so my message comes across as honest and real. Keep searching. Keep learning. Keep striving to get Better at whatever it is that you do.

Aha Moment #13 Low Moods

2009-01-16T06:58:00.000-05:00

Notice when you are in a low mood, everything gets serious. This is not the time to get to the bottom of things. It’s time to be still. Your low mood will pass and all will be well.

The Shack, a Best Seller

2009-01-12T05:55:00.005-05:00

I finished a book yesterday called The Shack, written by William Young. It's currently a best seller. I recommend it highly. It took me a while to get really interested in it, but as I read on I began to really appreciate the message. It explores our relationship with God and gives a fresh look at religion. It does so in a different way which gives an interesting perspective and answers many profound questions.
The two things I more clearly understand now are God's presence with us and the absolute power of love and forgiveness. It's a powerful book. I'm aware of and experiencing God's love and His presence right now.
If you can begin to experience God's love and presence in yourself you'll begin to see His love and presence in others.

Aha Moment #12 Being Prepared is Half the Battle

2009-01-12T05:54:00.001-05:00

Plan for bumps in the road... Don’t be surprised when yesterday’s unsolved issue re-appears. Plan a response that will make you feel a little bit better then you did last time. Being prepared is half the battle

Aha Moment #11 Are you a Human Doing or a Human Being?

2009-01-11T06:48:00.002-05:00

Are you a human doing or a human being? Slow down, pay attention. Spend some time “being” instead of constantly doing. The consciousness arrived at by being, will enhance all your experiences.

I Hope You Dance

2009-01-07T23:13:00.000-05:00

The Hauppague Industrial Association--a grass-roots, pro-active 30- year old business organization that focuses on the economic health and well-being of its member companies and that of the entire Long Island business community--held a talent content last month.

As a member of the association and a "ham" when it comes to getting in front of an audience, you might have already guessed that I happily participated. It was hosted by David Weiss of WLNY-TV 55 at the Sheraton LI Hotel. The distinguished panel of Judges included HIA co-founder and Chairman Jack Kulka and board members Tony Leteri of Leteri Waste Management and Rita DiStefano of Portnoy, Messinger, Pearl & Associates.

As indicated in the HIA Reporter, their monthly newsletter, my performance "delivered a skillful rendition of the Eagles’ 1973 classic 'Peaceful Easy Feeling'." One of six competitors, I was pleased to walk away in second place with a score of 10, 10 and 9, a very large trophy and my own peaceful, easy feeling!

When life comes at you with opportunities that may intimidate you, feel the fear and then do it anyway. You are likely to be pleasantly surprised with a memorable experience.

I share with you words of wisdom from a song by Lee Ann Womack that I sing at many of my motivational talks -- "And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance... I hope you dance!"

Jim

The Science of Getting Rich

2009-01-07T06:20:00.000-05:00

A dear friend gave me a book a couple of years ago, "The Science of Getting Rich", by Wallace Wattles. It was written in 1910 and is the basis for the movie and book, "The Secret". It is a short, easy to read book. I read it while on vacation in PA. The book had little effect on me.

Last week a woman whom I coach and who has been having some difficulty with visualization emailed me and asked if we could discuss this book at our next session. I had forgotten that I had the book sitting in my bookcase. Once I realized I had it I picked it up and devoured it immediately. The effect it had on me was totally different this reading. I began to really understand the point of how our thoughts create our lives. I began to understand what a dominant thought is. I now understand why it's so important to be rich. I'm glad I read this book so early in 2009. It will be the basis for my getting truly rich. It's all about the Law of Attraction. I am a different person today than I was two years ago when I first read this book. I was ready this time to receive the book's message.

Read it and read it again - The Science of Getting Rich.

Aha Moment #10 Jump Aboard, Start Living Life

2009-01-05T09:14:00.000-05:00

If you feel that life is passing you by, then it possibly is. You can fret about lost opportunities chastising yourself for living a life of little consequence. You can live each day going through the motions in a joyless fashion, thinking up excuses for why your life has turned out the way it has, or you can listen to the wake up call! Make choices that move you in the direction of a more fulfilling life. Jump aboard “the passing life” and start living it.

Aha Moment #9 The Golden Years

2009-01-04T11:54:00.004-05:00

The golden years can truly be golden. Seek out opportunities to brighten the lives of others, even as your own light fades. Rise above the challenges of aging; deflect your conversation away from complaints. Shine the light on others as you age, and you will see the joy of living a long life.

Aha Moment #8 Practice Compassion

2009-01-03T10:07:00.000-05:00

Practice compassion. Let others be who they want to be without giving into the need to judge them

REFLECTIONS TAKING US FORWARD

2009-01-01T16:03:00.000-05:00

As 2008 comes to a close, what a wonderful opportunity to take time in reflection of your successes of this past year.

Write down five or more things that you feel good about accomplishing. You have probably done more than you had originally thought. Go through the year, month by month, and give yourself credit. So often we beat ourselves up over what we have messed up. Now is the time to focus on the plus side.

Let's make 2009 our best year ever! Let's make it a year of personal growth. Let's make it a year in which we come closer to understand who we really are – children of God. We are not just lowly humans destined to struggle every day. We are divine beings meant to live lives filled with Joy and Abundance!

If that's not the life you're living, wouldn't NOW be a good time to start?

Happy New Year to all!

Accomplishments of 2008

2008-12-28T12:32:00.000-05:00

My Aha Moment for New Years Eve suggests that you list your accomplishments for 2008, so I thought I'd better do it myself. Here goes.

I did 14 Major presentations (9 local and 5 national)
I lost 16 pounds
I chaired the Rotary Wine Tasting fund raiser
I helped my Mother die peacefully
My songs comforted another dying woman
I joined the Hauppauge Industrial Assoc.
I placed 2nd in the "HIA's Got Talent" competition
I edited Simple Happiness
I finished remodelling two bathrooms at home
I did Aha Moments every Wednesday
I taught my weekly personal development class at the jail
I did 2 tv interviews on cable channel 20
I put Simple Happiness on an audio cd
I vacationed in AZ
I coached Beena
I did a book signing in Chatham, MA
I did a radio interview on WSBU
I walked 2 miles most days
I joined Speakermatch

I hope to expand that list in 2009. Now I have something concrete to expand upon in setting my goals for 2009. This year I'm also going to keep track of the books I read.

Aha Moment #7 Your Life is Like a Mansion

2008-12-28T07:12:00.000-05:00

Your life is like a mansion. Are you living your life in the foyer of your mansion? It might seem easy and feel comfortable just to stay there, but why not try opening the doors to some rooms and peaking in. There’s no telling what might be in store for you.

Aha Moment #6 Is The Student Ready?

2008-12-27T07:54:00.000-05:00

Everyone who comes into your life does so to teach you a lesson. Every life experience prepares us for what is to come. It’s all good. When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.

Aha Moment #5 Daily Awareness

2008-12-26T06:18:00.000-05:00

It is in the daily awareness of making small positive steps that strong permanent changes occur. Your conscious progress toward happiness becomes a daily focus in your life.

Give PEACE for Christmas!

2008-12-24T15:41:00.000-05:00

As Christmas comes upon us, all too often the hustle and bustle of the preparations keeps us from what we truly desire—PEACE. Sadly, many times we find ourselves stressed, not fully able to experience the Spirit of the Season with those closest to us—our families.

It seems easier to spread a joyful greeting to a friend or even a stranger than to a loved one.How do we embrace the Holiday Spirit? First, we must begin by allowing Peace in our hearts. It may be through forgiveness or acknowledging others or simply counting our Blessings. The Spirit of the Holiday season is Peace on Earth. And it begins with YOU.

So as you kickoff your celebration, make the effort to bringPeace to the family. Try by pulling folks aside quietlyand begin a heartfelt sentence with, "Do you know what I've always admired about you?"

When you appreciate people for who they are, you bring Peace to them, you feel Peace in you and you invite Peace on Earth.

Merry Christmas!

Aha Moment #4 A Thought Is Just a Thought

2008-12-24T11:03:00.000-05:00

A thought is just a thought. Your thoughts are not your life. You fashion your life by the thoughts you choose. Simple happiness comes when you reach for thoughts that empower you, and let go of those that do not.

Aha Moment #3 Mindfulness and Observation Are Key

2008-12-22T17:20:00.000-05:00

Your job, if you want simple happiness, is to notice when you are hanging onto disempowering thoughts. When you observe yourself feeling sad, hurt, or depressed, you can usually trace that feeling back to how you are thinking about things. Observing yourself is the first step; choosing a better feeling thought is the next step.

Aha Moment #2 Your Thoughts Determine Your Life

2008-12-16T20:25:00.000-05:00

Your life is a manifestation of what you think about all day long. When you are able to step back and observe what thoughts you’re hanging on to, you’ll start to understand why your life is the way it is.

Aha Moment #1 Start Here

2008-12-15T22:35:00.000-05:00

If you want things to change, you have to change something. Start by changing your thoughts.

This Christmas Season

2008-12-13T12:07:00.000-05:00

As Christmas approaches be mindful of your spirit. Sure there are added pressures this time of year. We all feel the squeeze of getting everything ready for a Merry Christmas Day. Be mindful that we all face pretty much the same stresses. Be the one who exhibits the true spirit of the Season. We are celebrating the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace. Take care to spread that Joyful attitude to everyone you come in contact with. Let's make this a truly Joyful and very Merry Christmas.

Happy or Unhappy

2008-12-04T16:59:00.000-05:00

The other day while prospecting for speaking opportunities at middle schools and high schools, my assistant came across the website of an upstate New York school district. On the home page was a section called Daily Announcements. I found the message quite appropriate, since my talks focus on how to live a happier and more fulfilling life. It said:
The main difference between happy and unhappy people is that happy people mostly evaluate their own behavior and constantly attempt to improve what they do.
Unhappy people, on the other hand, mostly evaluate the behavior of others and spend their time criticizing, complaining and judging in an attempt to coerce them into "improving " what they do.

Just Ask

2008-11-30T10:48:00.000-05:00

Many of us are afraid to ask anybody for anything. Who knows why. Maybe people will think less of you. Maybe the person asked will say "no". Maybe the person will say "yes" and then you'll be indebted to him. Maybe you think you should be able to figure out things for yourself.
It's been my experience that people like to be asked. Most of the time being asked is a compliment. Most people are very willing to be of help. Sometimes the person you ask can't help but is very willing to direct you to a person who is in a better position to help you.
You have nothing to lose by asking. If the person asked can't or won't help, you're in the same position you were in before you asked. In the New Testament it says, "Seek and you shall find; knock and the door will be opened; ask and it shall be given..."
What more advice do you need? Seek what you want, knock on doors to get it and ask, ask, ask.