My regular readers know that I recently earned my Level II Reiki certification.  Dr. Mikao Usui, the founder of the Reiki system of natural healing, recommended that one practice certain simple ethical ideals to promote peace and harmony, which are nearly universal across all cultures. During a meditation several years after developing Reiki, Dr. Usui decided to add the Reiki Ideals to the practice of Reiki:

Just for today, do not anger.
Just for today, do not worry.
Honor your parents, teachers, and elders.
Earn your living honestly.
Show gratitude to every living thing.

It’s a great mantra, this “Just for today”. I find myself bargaining with myself throughout my day as a WAHM:
Just for today, I will give up my latte.
Just for today, I will *try* not to yell when the kids are driving me nuts.
Just for today, I will reach for my weights instead of needless, empty carbs.

I like the concept of “Just for today”. It’s much easier to commit to a new behavior short term rather than quitting something cold turkey. I cave under the pressure of long term behavioral changes.

Last time I vowed to quit my latte cold turkey, I lasted a whole day. Woo, hoo - that’s will power!

Now that I’ve taken on a just for today approach, I’ve strung together 9 todays in a row. I can’t guarantee that I won’t want a latte tomorrow, but TODAY, I’m committed.

What changes could you implement, just for today?