Engaging the Spiritual Art of Business

Engaging the Spiritual Art of Business

“Seven Practices for Your Holistic Career”

Like the rest of the world, business is changing.  “Busy-ness” and spirituality appear to be contradictions;  two concepts, seemingly, not compatible.  With the increasing high vibrational energies, what once was inconceivable is now possible, even in the world of business.

For twenty years, I lived in this world.  Success was measured in monetary value and balance in life was a dream.  Because of the high stress environment, my health and home suffered.  Internally, I was in pain; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.  Connecting to the outside world, and the requirements to exist in this environment, left me drained and empty. Listening to the tiny inner voice, I ended my career and changed my path.

While starting a lifestyle business, centered on health, holistic-living, and spirituality I brought attributes and learnings from my previous accomplishments in corporate America.  The following seven practices are both business and spiritually oriented, blending the two separate worlds.  

1. Tune in
2. Think clear
3. Act mindful
4. Collaborate often
5. Measure results
6. Adjust frequently
7. Practice Joy

TUNE IN

The first practice, “Tune in,” is a spiritual tool that is critical in starting and running your holistic business.  If you are attune to the spiritual world you understand and know the importance of listening to your inner guidance.  In today’s world, where chaos reins, and quiet is hard to find, this is essential.  I placed this in the first position, because I believe it is the most important.  If we ignore our internal compass, and listen to outside influences, our business may never even start, and it certainly will not thrive.  Whether you tune in at the end of the day or first thing in the morning, it needs to be a practice; regular and consistent.  Ideally, tuning in can occur throughout a given day just by focusing on breath.

THINK CLEAR

With the influx of information in the current digital age, “Think clear” can be one of the hardest practices.  We are bombarded with messages and requests for our time and thoughts.  How do we even begin to think clearly?  It begins with the first step, listed above, which helps to quiet the mind.  For me, walking in nature is another way to stay grounded in reality.  Designate time to work on projects without interruptions.   Set boundaries with friends, family, and phones.  My phone is off by 8PM.  Mornings are my best time to work, so I dedicate this period for my plans that need clear thinking.  Know yourself and what works for you, then set your limits, and begin to clear the space for your thoughts.

ACT MINDFUL

Understanding yourself by dialing in, and reducing distractions to focus your mind will point you in the right direction, but action is key.  We have all heard, “Go with the Flow”.  I want to say, “Go and Flow”.  In corporate America, emphasis is placed on the action.  As an international business woman, I was rewarded on my actions that led to results.  What was happening internally or in my head was little concern to the bottom line, or so was the thinking at the time.  Action was king.

Mindful Action brings a holistic approach to the “go.”  Mindful action includes the previous steps, but involves moving.  Do something for your business every day.  Action is energy.  When energy moves it grows and expands, when it is stagnant, it withers.  Choosing mindful action for your business brings life to it.  Place an intention in your mind.  Incorporating the highest and greatest good, for the best outcome possible for all, adds the “mindful” element to the action.

COLLABORATE OFTEN

Holistically, we understand that everything is related and intertwined.  Nothing happens in a vacuum or solo.  The fourth practice involves “Collaboration”.  Collaborating with mentors, peers, and customers is vital in business.  Wisdoms gained, ideas shared, and feedback received helps to grow your business.  Meetings are frequent in the business world, for a reason, they facilitate collaboration.  In your own business, working with peers and mentors helps lessen your trials.  Listening to customer needs allows for fresh perspectives. Collaboration spiritually can be accomplished by calling on your guides and angels for help.  All beings of Light are here to offer assistance; all you need to do is ask.  

MEASURE RESULTS

Spiritually speaking, “Measuring results” is a hard topic.  In the business world, results are most often measured by financial success.  In a holistic business, money is not the focus, but because we live in a third dimensional world, it is important.  What I want to discuss here is the measuring aspect.  Reviewing and understanding the impact of your business is challenging when it is subjective and non-linear.  Often, you do not know the effect you have on a client or customer.  The healing may not be immediate or even in this lifetime.  Measure where you can, but know that following your heart and helping others is immeasurable.

ADJUST FREQUENTLY

Change is constant in business and life.  We talked about the action, now we will discuss flow.  Adjusting frequently is a standard concept in business.  There is no time to stagnate.  As a buyer merchandiser in the Toy business, adjustments were made to our selection every six months.  We made changes before the products hit the shelves.  Balance is key here.  In a spiritually oriented business, time is needed to “go within”.  Physical action does not take place until clarification is confirmed.  The challenge is, we may not receive such clarity, yet we need to act. Clear your mind, and check internally, but adjust as needed in order to benefit all.

PRACTICE JOY

Ultimately there is only One World, both of which include spiritual and business aspects.  Merging the two brings joy. Joy in knowing you are honoring your soul. Joy in knowing you are serving the greater good of humanity.  Joy in knowing you are fulfilling the will of Creator and Creation, as you create your business.
Practice Joy.


Susan J. McFarland
www.susanjmcfarland.com
www.amway.com/susanmcfarland
www.susanjmcfarland.blogspot.com
susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

Susan worked twenty years as an international business woman after receiving degrees in Business Communications and Spanish from Michigan State.  She is a Holistic Health Practitioner, HHP, an ordained minister, and writer.
She is an Independent Business Owner, offering Nutrilite Health Products through Amway.
Susan teaches clients holistic and spiritual living guidelines.
She is available for talks and workshops.







     
   



 


 

Middle Parenting

Middle Parenting 

The middle of a child’s education, can come around ten to twelve years old, exactly the ages of my daughters.  One is in her last year of elementary, the other started middle school this fall.  Ending the elementary years and beginning the transition to middle school is a huge step for a child and parent.  My children leave the comfort of a small school in a tiny community and venture to a much larger environment.  This journey does not happen solo.  The child brings the parents with them.  Just as the child feels anxiety over the changing roles, so too, does the parent.  

Leaving the job of primary caregiver, the parent now serves a second-hand role. No longer is the parent the child’s foremost supporter.  The child now shares the responsibility of provider for themselves. They want independence, but on their own terms.  Navigating this path is difficult.  Knowing when to step back and when to step in can be tricky.  I am not one to step aside.  I am a doer. As an involved parent, I lead my children as they move through the education system.  

Letting them “take the lead” and “hold the reins” is scary business for a “control freak.”  Yet, it must be done.  If they fall, then they fall.  I will be there to pick them up and brush them off.  I want to ask, and nag and nag and ask, but that leads to frustration on both our parts.  If they ask, I will answer.  Firms boundaries must set be set, but room is made for the stumble.  Keep the connection strong, with attention given when needed.  Guiding when asked, is critical and essential, to the “middle parenting” years.

Susan J. McFarland

www.susanjmcfarland.com

susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

September, 2015

Dog Gone It

Dog Gone It

I love cats.  Cats have been a part of my life since I was young, first Taffy, then Max and Nick, and now Licorice and Pearl.  I can’t imagine a life without my feline friends.  My daughter, on the other hand, loves dogs.  She connects with dogs at a level I do not.  Seeing the magic between her and any dog, I felt it was time to consider a dog for our family.

After watching friends and families with their pups, I began to visualize our life with a dog.  For months, I observed dog walkers on our path and in our small town.  Checking the Humane Society and shelters on-line to see if I connected with any canine companion became a favorite past-time.  We would walk the dog on our nature trail, snuggle with the dog in the evening and travel together to various locals around the State.  The cats would cuddle with the dog and they would be fast friends.  

My dear friend informed me of a little dog available about an hour away from our home at a “no kill” shelter.  At first I was going to visit the dog by myself, but as schedules would have it, the girls were available to join me.  The excited pooch was as eager to see us as we were to meet him.  He barked and jumped with enthusiasm.  My youngest child was so thrilled.  She ran and played with the cutie.  Although my oldest daughter was hesitant, we agreed to adopt him.

The next day, after purchasing all the necessary goods, we brought the three year old home.  The afternoon was busy, but good as we adjusted to life with a dog.  My reluctant daughter was away with friends for the day.  

As evening came, so did the fear.  The little sweetie could not settle down.  With my husband home, the anxiety amplified.  The dog began to bark, growl, and attack my husband every time he moved, walked, stood up or sat down.  My dog loving daughter became afraid.  

Apologies to any dog lover’s who thinks we “gave up” too soon, but we decided that this little one was not the best fit for our family.  With tears and a heavy heart we returned the dog to the shelter, feeling as if we failed the dog and ourselves.       

After more soul searching, my conclusion was as much as I wanted to “make” my daughter happy by providing her what she desired, I neglected to honor my own-self.  Dogs are great. Please don’t think I do not like dogs, but they are not for me.  I like dogs, I don’t love dogs.  I love cats.  Cats are independent, quiet and self-contained.  I love these attributes.  My point in writing this, is that we first need to understand and honor our own needs. You cannot “make” someone happy.  Nor can another person, animal or thing “make” you happy.  Happiness is internal, not external.  If you are not sure what brings you joy, find a quiet space, and “look within,”  the answers are always there.

Beyond the Surface

Change can be overwhelming.  Yet, change is constant.  My girls returned to school this week, one in middle school for the first time and the other in her last year of elementary. Leading up to the transition, we were nervous, anxious, and excited.  Feelings and emotions bubbled to the surface on a daily basis, most were not so pleasant.

The day before, as I searched for bus schedules and finalized lunch accounts, I became frustrated with computer issues and lack of information.  Overwhelmed with not accomplishing what I set out to do, I cried.  

Logically, I should not cry over a failed computer system or my inability to maneuver it.  On most days, I would have moved on easily and effortlessly, but not today.  I sat in my office, sobbing, with my cat on my lap, providing support.

I wasn’t crying over the unfinished tasks, I was crying over “loss,”; loss of my children’s innocence, loss of their need for me, loss of myself(as defined by my summer role).  Releasing that which no longer served me, helped me to deal with the change.

If only looking at the surface, my family would have thought I was crying over a silly inconvenience.  How often do we fail to look beyond the surface of what’s bothering our kids, our spouse, or even ourselves.  My children can be moody.  It may appear that their attitudes are due to a certain action or inaction on my part or others.  In reality, beyond the surface, their feelings and emotions are a reflection of the reality within themselves.  

In looking inward, I notice how my reaction is caused by my internal environment.  Depending on how I feel physically and mentally, dictates my feelings and emotions.  Looking beyond the surface of the problem, with love and compassion, we can delve deeper into the truer meaning behind the reaction.  In traveling beyond the surface, we can heal the true cause.

Susan J. McFarland

www.susanjmcfarland.com

susanjmcfarland@yahoo.com

An Open Floor Plan

An Open Floor Plan

I love watching shows on rebuilding, remodeling and decorating homes.  Homes are a reflection of our inner world.  The current trend involves opening up the floor plans of older homes, for seamless transitions, from one space to another.  Gone are the days of closed in, cut off, four-walled rooms, separated and isolated.  

In writing this, a law has passed, in my beloved State of Michigan, which discriminates against same-sex couples, in the arena of state funded adoptions.  An “open floor plan” means open to others, whether it is in the area of religious freedom or diversity of beliefs.  While I believe we are changing as a group, and our homes reflect this, our laws often mirror the ideas of others.

As we create an “open floor plan,” our thoughts expand, and our ideas change.  A new normal is developed.  This is happening with the environment.  Organic food was a fringe idea only a few years ago, but as a group, the desire for, and use of organic products is becoming common.  As individuals, we have the power of an “open floor plan,” by what we choose.  No matter the arena; environmental, animal rights, women’s issues or global awareness, we have a voice.  Our voice matters.  

We can choose to remain isolated and closed off in our own little space, as in the past.  Or instead, we can elect an “open floor plan” that is no longer divided and blocked.  We can create a “home” where there are no clear beginnings or endings in the space.  This space is free flowing and inviting.  

As we “open our floor plan,” we open ourselves.  The first step to an “open floor plan,” involves self-examination.  Forgiving, trusting and loving ourselves leads to loving others.  As the world moves forward, it is time for an “open floor plan”.  Imagine a space where you can come and go with ease, without judgment or discrimination, but only Love.

Hanging Out

Hanging Out

     Half of my family was traveling last week, my husband in Italy working and my daughter enjoying her ten year trip with her grandparents.  It was an odd week, with less laundry to do and dinner to make.  My other daughter and I engaged in cultural activities, social gatherings and travel, yet there remained a certain amount of space in our lives to “hang out” with self.

My daughters used to have playdates, but now that they are older they have “hang outs”.  A “hang out” is being with someone for an extended period of time, possible doing and activity or not.  Last week I “hung out” with my oldest child, who is off to middle school, and soon won’t want to “hang out” with her mother.  We “hung out” with my Mom, who is almost eighty. I cherish every “hang out” I have with her these days.

Life can be busy at times with responsibilities, either real or imagined.  I used to have a high-stressed career in corporate America.  I chose to leave this life to “stay home” with my kids and to pursue my own dreams.

Relinquishing this part of me has opened up dormant areas of my life.  I have the “time” now to “hang out” with my kids.  As a “ultra sensitive” person I am intimately aware of their thoughts, feelings and emotions as they happen.  Being there for them during these critical growth years and guiding them through the challenges of life is my current “job”.  

Hanging out with myself used to scare me.  I feared being alone in a quiet room.  Over the last decade my career has been to “hang out” with myself.  To be there for me.  In the past, I dissociated myself from my feelings and emotions, burying them deep within my psyche.  I worked and played hard to the point of exhaustion.  My spirit, along with my physical body, had me stop and “hang out,” with myself, with my family, with my life.  

During these crazy days, make “hanging out” a priority.  Whether it is with family, friends or self, “hanging out” will offer you in the moment experiences, balance and ultimately love in your life.

Mother of Change

Mother of Change

Black cats can evoke fear and superstition in certain individuals.  Ancient Egypt regarded the black cat, Bastet or Bast as a deity.  She protected the home and assisted with motherhood, a goddess of fertility.  I have such a cat in my home.  Her name is Licorice, as in black licorice, she likes to lick.  As her ancient relative did thousands of years ago, she too is a protector of all things feminine.   

A regal lady with a hunter’s heart, she prowls the yard in search of frogs,  At times she wanders far, in pursuit of prey.  Such was the case, when she did not come home one night.  Typically, when I call her she runs to the back door within minutes.  Frantic, I went to bed with her outside in the woods.  

Morning came and still no Licorice.  I called, I searched and I contacted my friend, who connects with animals.  Licorice was fine, “Hunting,” she said.  The day passed and she did not return.  Sensing she was near, my friend suggested rubbing the scent of her sister on an old cloth and leaving a trail to help her find the way home.  The girls and I rode bikes to her possible location. We dropped torn cloth back to our home.

She spent another night alone, out in the forest, no food or water.  Morning came and she was not at the door.  I called her name and prepared myself for more searching.  Within minutes she returned.  Relieved, I held her tight.  We snuggled throughout the day.  The next day she was ready for a new adventure.  I was not.

Licorice is a teenager.  She wants to be independent, yet she still needs her momma, not only for food and water, but for snuggles and lap time. My kids are a reflection of her and her sister, Pearl, both “teenagers”.    As a woman, I understand the importance of independence and adventure.  As I mother, I struggle with allowing my “kids,” all of them, to be independent and adventurous.

If they don’t need me, then what is my purpose?  My purpose was re-defined when they arrived at our home, through birth and adoption.  Leaving the corporate world, pursuing dreams and adapting to being a “stay at home” mom has not been easy. As I accept the fact that they are changing, I too need to be in a state of constant change.  Being a “mother of change” is the only stability I have.

A Path of Hope

A Path of Hope

Milestones such as graduations or transitions to new beginnings need to be celebrated.  Seven years ago, an orphan with little hope for a prosperous future, became a beloved daughter.  Seven years later, she graduates from elementary school, a beautiful young lady.  

The road is never easy.  The path is bumpy and rough.  There were tears of sorrow and pain.  You left for kindergarten, not knowing if you would see me again.  I saw it on your face. You spoke little English.  You were brave, on a bus, alone.  I was scared, you were scared.  I followed the bus and met you at the door.  We walked together hand in hand to the class room.  Nervous and anxious, I cried all day.

You moved on to the next year of kindergarten, two years, all day, everyday.  It was intense.  You were challenged, learning colors and letters, in the beginning.  From a native language, to Spanish, to English, you communicated your needs.  We struggled.  You held your teacher at the end of the year, not wanting to let go.  I held you.

First grade, another school and reading words was your next goal.  You, the new kid, different, set apart.  You made a friend, who struggled with language too.  Another friend, from your old school, helped you feel welcome.  You were branching out beyond your mother, growing.  Day after day, night after night, you studied, learned and mastered the new language.  Dedicated, you worked hard.  It wasn’t easy.  

Second grade brought a supportive and nurturing teacher, who cried with me, talking about your progress.  She had hope.  I had hope.  You were our hope.  Extra help was needed.  I fought for your success matching your determination.  Together, we could do it.

Third grade, a split in your room, friends moved to another class.  It was difficult, but you managed, again.  More support was needed, a girlfriend and a teacher, all in one.  Caring about reading and caring about you, together you prospered.  You worked hard, gaining progress, step by little step.  

   

Fourth grade, a male leading the class for the first time,  you called him a “boy teacher”.  Split again from your core friends, you bonded with others.  Learning who you were and how strong you are, you excelled. Drama, tears, and hugs, we made it through.  Talks about safety and protection, boys and friends began a new journey.  Pierced ears and text messages, opened your world.  I was scared.  You were confident.

Fifth grade, back together as a group, with a teacher you adored.  You mastered language, writing and speaking.  Kumon assisted your math skills, as did your hard work, nightly.   Between books and friends, you knew who you were and stayed true to yourself.  I was proud.  You were growing.  

As you finish your last day in elementary school, I write this to remember and reflect on the years gone by, and take a moment to celebrate you.  As I did, the first day of kindergarten, I cried all day.  

With love,

Mom

   

Lighten Your Load

Lighten Your Load

We all carry a heavy load, whether it is internally or externally.  When I travel, I pack my favorite backpack.  It is orange.  It holds all the essentials I need for easy access.  If I fly on a plane, it is by my side.  Like a friend, waiting for a conversation, it’s comforting to know it’s there.  

In a dream, I forgot my precious pack.  I panicked.  This bag, which I wear over my shoulder, or on my back, represents my inner self, always there.  When traveling this journey of life, it is a steady companion.  Forgetting it, is forgetting a part of me.  My inner being has everything I might desire for this trip.  At any point, I can extract one item or another.  If wanted, I can even re-purpose the pack, and use it in different situations during the trip.  

At times, the backpack or our interior world can be overloaded.  Stuffed with physical items, or even mental and emotional baggage.  When this happens the time comes for an overhaul or a cleansing.  Assess what is absolutely vital.  Release and bless the “travel gear” no longer useful.  Your trip will be easier and freer.

Mental Boundaries

a cause, a request, an inquiry

beckoning at every turn

priorities not mine

belonging to another

bless and release them with a kiss

attentive to my own needs

boundaries of the mind

Susan J. McFarland

Free Play

run, laugh, jump

bonding

creativity, exercise, fresh air 

sisterhood 

sacred space

Susan J. McFarland

Fixed and Solved

a daughter upset

a mom concerned

wanting to fix and solve

yet, waiting

walking to relieve pressure

walking to relieve anxiety

letting the daughter fix and solve

waited

fixed and solved

Susan J. McFarland

A Mother's Birth and Day

Gather together, celebrate

A Mother’s birth and day

With family, cakes and sunsets

Visiting history and a cozy Inn

Love experienced

So I Cease

I organize, so I cease chaos

I clean, so I cease clutter 

I  meditate, so I cease praying

I walk, so I cease running

I have nature, so I cease urban areas

I have silence, so I cease noise

I have solitude, so I cease crowds

I write, so I cease reading

Susan J. McFarland

For a Moment

to the Aquarium we go, 

hand in hand

together, for a moment 

excitement, learning and fun

friends, museums and shops 

to the bus, we go, 

releasing hand, letting go

apart, for a moment, longer

growing 

Susan J. McFarland

Journeys New

heart beating, anticipating journeys new

breath, thought

a step advancing the dream of tomorrow

Susan J. McFarland

Body, Mind and Spirit

 

Walking is to the body

what breathing is to the mind

and writing is to the spirit

Susan J. McFarland

Steve's Dog

in memory of Stephen P. Herron

April 27 1962-April 27 1982

a fifty year old toy

stuffed dog once loved

forgotten

released and gifted from the heart

new home and owner, brother's niece

love returns

Happy birthday to my dear brother, Stephen P. Herron

Susan J. McFarland

Flowing

Water ripples from movement

Water moves from ripples

Flowing

When we move life changes

When we change life moves

Flowing

Susan J. McFarland

Let Go

Deliver gifts of love

Exchange hugs and words

Release again

Freedom and euphoria

Susan J. McFarland

Free Space

Clean out your house

Clear off your schedule

Allow space to create

Free your mind, body and soul

Susan J. McFarland

Sound of Life

Walking under a canopy of pines, listen to the sound of life in the forest

Stop but a moment the sound of life is spotted, felt, experienced  

Move forward, the sound of life is changed, yet present still

Susan J. McFarland