Most of us start the day like we're trying to catch a train.  We 
wake up, grab a cup of coffee, look at the paper and listen to 
the news.  We rush out of the house to make an appointment or 
deadline or to put the finishing touches on a project.  From 
deadline to appointment it goes.  When we leave work we have 
other responsibilities and obligations, and it doesn't end until 
we go to sleep, and for some it still doesn't end.  We never do 
catch the train.  We forgot one essential thing.  We are the 
conductor and the train can't go anywhere without us.

What if you knew deep inside that the train was not going 
anywhere?  What would it take to develop the wisdom that there 
was a better way?  What changes could you implement that would 
make a difference?  I was a busy trial lawyer for thirty years, 
always running to catch the train. I still remember racing to the 
court room full of coffee and stress until I realized I was the 
conductor of my life. That realization allowed me to make life 
altering changes that continue to make my life more enjoyable, 
more successful and more fulfilling. 

It all starts with creating your perfect morning. This is your 
morning, no one else's. Consider waking up to music you love, 
rather than to the music or news on your alarm clock.  Then 
before doing anything else take 10-15 minutes and sit silently 
thinking about all you're grateful for. Then start to wonder what 
the highlight of your day could be. From this new vantage point 
you might even skip that cup of coffee or that cigarette. As you 
leave your house and begin the flow of your day you look at each 
experience and wonder if this is going to be the highpoint of 
your day knowing there is more to come. The concept of looking at 
the highlight of the day can be used in any situation even one 
that seems unpleasant. Looking for the highlight in this 
experience or this person can totally change your attitude.  As 
the day unfolds, if you sense that things inside are heating up, 
consider taking a little break. You might even stretch for five 
minutes or walk around the block.  As your day progresses the 
biggest difference is the knowledge that you can be busy and be 
relaxed. 

I have found that starting the day this way increases my energy 
and efficiency throughout the day. When I leave my house centered 
and focused there is a much greater likelihood that I can 
maintain this balance throughout the day. There has been plenty 
of research by psychologists demonstrating the value of taking 
the time for morning meditation or creative silence. I have been 
doing this for over thirty years and very rarely feel 
overwhelmed. I laugh more and generally enjoy my day. Of course I 
have my challenges and lose my focus periodically, but not for 
long.  And before I go to sleep I again think about what was most 
special about this day. 

The one thing I do know for certain is that there's a direct 
correlation between how I start my day and the quality of my 
life.  Try a little experiment.  For the next thirty days start 
your day on your own terms and discover the dramatic changes that 
are possible. 

Mark Susnow has a unique background. Formerly a successful trial 
attorney for 30 years, as well as musician, he integrates what it 
takes to be truly prosperous in the world with the inner wisdom 
unfolded to him through years of yoga and meditation practice. 
As a personal coach, leadership consultant and inspirational 
speaker, Mark provides inspiration and motivation to many 
business leaders and professionals. He knows what it means to 
have a big vision and has demonstrated the courage and energy it 
takes to accomplish it. Consider contacting Mark and be sure to 
visit his website: http://www.inspirepossibility.com