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$400,000-- This is the cost of the most expensive Champagne glasses in the world. These exquisite crystal glasses designed by John Calleija are studded with minute pink and white diamonds. As far as luxury drinks are considered, fine Champagne ranks among the preferable choices, so pouring bubbles into stunning glasses only seems appropriate.
Getting a taste of luxury is something we desire. Rather it be crystal glasses, a diamond bracelet or an expensive car, these items symbolize wealth. However, they also represent cheap abundance. Just like the champagne bubbles, this type of abundance quickly evaporates. And still, many are trapped in the cycle of wanting more, spending more, doing more only to end up feeling exhausted and unfulfilled.
It is hard to break this cycle. After all, raising a glass to wealth is something our society applauds and encourages. The media and multiple online platforms pitch the belief that obtaining a certain status level or unique goods means that one is happy and living in abundance. And yet, it never seems enough.
Chances are over time your definition of abundance has changed. Perhaps, a significant life event, such as a divorce or job loss, caused you to reexamine your priorities. Maybe there were times when you purchased a particular item, and now looking at it, you can’t remember why you desired it. The definition of what one considers abundance to be is fluid; it shifts as internal and external circumstances change. Abundance is important and worth examining.
The journey to abundance begins with some basic questions: How do you define abundance? Is it perfect health? Is it a rewarding career? Is it a loving relationship? Is it a home paid in full?
The path to illumined abundance is open to all, but few take it. Instead, we gravitate towards “cheap” abundance. Thinking the source of happiness is external we buy the upgraded version of a package because we think it will launch our career or improve our status. And so often these purchased fail to bring us fulfillment. Our blocks to abundance are within. We often hold ourselves back from prosperity, but change is possible. Illumined abundance expands the depth of your journey by taking you to a richer level of experience which produces your very best self.
The good news is that change is possible. Our most powerful platform for change is our mind. It shapes how we think, perceive, and act. It can make us stronger, physically, spiritually, emotionally and in turn deepen our relationships not only with ourselves but with others.
A popular quote from Mahatma Gandhi is "Be the change that you wish to see in the world." I wholeheartedly agree with this quote, but sometimes, I think that we can't impact true change around us and in others until we change ourselves. Setting new goals for ourselves and seeing our in a new light is part of illumined abundance.
Three ways to cultivate illumined abundance:
1. Become aware of your thoughts. Start with becoming aware of your negative thoughts. Take note when you tell yourself, "I can't do this because" or "This will only happen when" because these are thoughts which contain limitations. You may be engaging in limited thinking more than you realize. People who are living in abundance are aware of how negative thinking can impact their outcomes. They know that words have power and it can influence personal and professional performances.
2. Ask for guidance. You can't be an expert in everything, so don't be afraid to reach out. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. Getting to your next step might be easier with a little assistance. Most people who are living the life they desire had a little help along the way.
3. Learn to maximize your time. Each of us have twenty- four hours in a day and those living in abundance know how to effectively utilize their time. This may mean getting up an extra hour early or cutting back on screen time. Becoming very disciplined with your time will help you to become more productive and reach your goal.
People who are living in prosperity tend to do more because they are doing work they love. This road is open to all and living your very best life isn't for the faint of heart, but the rewards are unlimited.
Kristin Meekhof is a licensed master's level social worker and co- author of the book, "A Widow's Guide to Healing". She can be reached via her website.
