The Artisan Soul (20 page)

       
Share it with at least one friend who will celebrate your new life narrative.

 

Interpretation: Translation of Life

The hard work of changing our perspective

       
Begin a process to investigate how you see the world.

       
Make two lists:

    
everything good in your life;

    
everything bad in your life.

       
Now examine your lists.

    
Which list is longer?

    
Which list came more naturally?

       
Is it easier for you to be pessimistic or to be optimistic?

       
Place yourself on a scale of optimism versus pessimism.

       
Write your life story in one page as a pessimist.

       
Now write it in one page as an optimist.

       
Now write it as if you were convinced that God is at work in your life and intends only good for you.

       
Now begin reinterpreting life through this filter: “I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” says the Lord.

       
Write down every good and beautiful thing that has ever happened to you.

       
Take time to record everything you have learned and gained from your failures and hardships.

       
Begin a practice of identifying every good and beautiful act or experience that comes your way.