Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/244291
"Every day, they are stepping into a life that contains so much of what they don't want. A vision map allows them to see what they want and what it will look like, so they can move toward it." Two-part solution Vicari's approach tackles the concrete and abstract aspects of her clients' imbalance. Practically, she helps people claim boundaries, set limits and delegate responsibilities, so they can refocus their time and energy on relationships, hobbies, exercise, nutrition and personal growth. But it's also necessary to address the emotional reasons why they have attached so much of their identity to one role, Vicari says. "A lot of what I do is help people look deeply at their sense of value and what means the most to them, so they can begin to recognize they've been buying into a story that isn't working for them, that the person they are being is not who they want to be." Write it down Journaling is one of several tactics Vicari uses with clients to help them make life changes. For instance, Robin LeMastus, 50, has found gratitude journaling a powerful tool. Tracking her appreciation for things large and small helps her find harmony in hectic days and deal with difficult situations gracefully, says LeMastus, who owns a horse boarding farm. "It's such a resource for me. After a troubling situation, I write down what about it made me grateful. And surprisingly, there will be something in every situation." Vicari also suggests asking and answering specific questions, like: What roles do I value most? How much time do I spend doing what I value? What specific steps can I take to spend more time doing what I love? Often, what people value and how they spend their time is incongruous, but they are unaware until putting it on paper, she says. Set intentions Acknowledging there is a limited amount of time with family and friends, Vicari suggests remodeling how that time is spent. Instead of frantically checking tasks off a to-do list, barking orders or zoning out to television, set an intention to spend family time connecting in a meaningful way. Mark Kirchdorfer, 40, a busy CEO, wanted to help his daughters develop confidence. He decided to integrate it into their breakfast routine, asking the girls to say one thing they like about themselves each morning. "At first, it was challenging for them to come up with something," he says. "But now, they are thinking about what they are going to say the night before. So while they are going to sleep, they are thinking about what they like about themselves." For those interested in life coaching, Stacey Vicari offers a complimentary session. For more information, visit www.myideallife.com. Map it out Many of Vicari's clients have trouble envisioning the possibilities. They are dissatisfied with aspects of their lives, but unable to visualize them differently. "Every day, they are stepping into a life that contains so much of what they don't want," Vicari says. "A vision map allows them to see what they want and what it will look like, so they can move toward it." LeMastus, who is practical by nature, says vision mapping encourages her to be imaginative. "I'm not a big dreamer, and this gives me the permission to dream crazily," she says. Schedule life For people who have trouble executing their vision, Vicari suggests creating a weekly schedule, something she has done religiously for years. Plan the week, scheduling time to eat, cook, exercise, socialize and be outside. "When you live with that kind of deliberation, what you want will actually happen," she says. Through her work with Vicari, LeMastus has learned to take guilt-free time for herself rather than letting people and projects dictate her schedule. Creating a plan and maintaining those boundaries has removed the emotional element. "There are no negative emotions involved. Now I have an appointment with you. Then I have an appointment with myself to do yoga," she says matter-of factly. Vicari says creating your ideal life is simple. Get engaged, plan it out and be contemplative about your actions and how you spend your time. Don't just let life happen to you. "When we get out of the bleachers and step into the game that is our life and become aware, deliberate and intentional, amazing things start to happen." Health & Wellness Magazine • 57