5 Minute Mojo

Hello and welcome to Five Minute Mojo.  Today I want to talk about autonomy, or actually the perception of autonomy.  We like to think that we are captains of our own ships; that the decisions we make in the day are strictly of our own choosing, uninfluenced by the wishes and whims of others. However, if you look a little harder, and more honestly, you might find out that your decisions are not always your own.  One of the goals of this podcast and in the things I talk about alone and with guests is about becoming aware; becoming aware of your actions, thoughts and feelings.  I never want anyone to come to the end of their life and say, “ That wasn’t really my life. I just followed what everyone else was doing, what everyone else thought I should be doing” Awareness will help you avoid that somber declaration. we are all influenced each day, by society, our families and our friends.  Pretty much everyone has a hand in our decisions.  You may be thinking you’re not some namby-pamby toady kowtowing to the wishe

Hello my friends and welcome to Five Minute Mojo.  I use the word autopilot a lot in my writing and podcasting because it is a fitting word for talking about how the majority of people go through life.  That’s not a judgment.  I don’t know what anyone is here to experience on this planet and I never will.  The only person who knows why they are here is that person.  Ironically enough the only way to determine why is with introspection and awareness, not unexamined reactions. The other day I was giving a talk about ways to become calm.  In my presentation there were the typical, or not so typical depending on who you are, ways to become calmer in the moment.  Deep breathing was mentioned as was taking a walk or smelling essential oils.  One thing I mentioned though is outside of the scope of commonplace and that is why I want to share it with you today. It has to do with the places where you spend your time.  We all have places that we go to regularly for food, gas, banking, etc.  But have you thought about wh

We are a social people, wanting to belong.  However, there are times when belonging is not the best thing.  many times we give up who we are become a member of a group.  In those cases, following is definitely not the answer.  Today, I discuss how following can help you or lead you down a not so friendly path of unhappiness. Question of the Day What are two groups that you belong to now Why did you join? Have you ever been asked to squelch your thoughts or personality to stay within the group? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what y

Hello my friend and welcome back to Five Minute Mojo.  What would you say if I told you that at some point in the day you would be told that you aren’t good enough?  Would you believe me?  You might be thinking that I am strictly talking about yourself, that each day you tell yourself at some point that you aren’t good enough.  Well, I totally understand that many people hear that from themselves, but believe it or not I am talking about another voice outside of your inner dialogue.  It’s much more insidious, wildly subtler.   Now what would you say if I told you that you willingly ask to be told you are not good enough, that you are lacking?  Would you believe me then?  I hate to say it but if you own a TV, subscribe to magazines or even surf the internet you are confronted with messages telling you that you don’t measure up.  And the saddest part of all is that you willingly invite those comments. If you have self-esteem issues of course there are any number of causes.  But regardless of origin there are so

“There is no fear for one whose mind is not filled with desires.” The Buddha Oh yeah, I started off the episode with a quote, with the quote of the day.  Some of you might be saying, um, that’s cool but who the heck are you, and what’s this show all about?  I tell you what, how about I just say that if you stick around to the end you will be better than you were when you started listening.  It’s only five minutes, and that’s not a bad return on your investment. So let’s get into it. What do you want in life?  What are your desires?  Do you have any?  Chances are pretty good that if you are human, you have some wants.  If you are like some people, you have many wants.  But does that serve you?  Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, would say that it may not.  His belief, as evidenced by the quote of the day, seems to point to a belief that being desirous is a path to fear. Let’s start with things.  You work to make money to buy things.  There’s nothing wrong with that if you use the things and indeed buy them for th

I have to say I am not sure if this is a true buddha quote, but regardless, the message was so important and timely, that I thought I would talk about it.  Just like yesterday, it’s just a few words that hold so much power, and for some people, some challenges. “Radiate boundless love towards the entire world” - Buddha 7 words that could change the entire planet if everyone was to put that suggestion into effect.  I have to tell you, I love this planet, this world, but I shake my head sometimes wondering why we have such huge challenges in being kind and loving to each other.  I know there is a reason, but frankly, I just don’t understand why skin color, orientation, gender or religion or any other marker, separates people.  Why is it so hard for people to get along.  I guess that is why I Love this quote so much. Today I was at the gas station filling up on a beautiful spring day (and yes, I know it’s still February) when a family came walking out of the gas station mini mart.  There was a mother who was som

    There is a misperception that may keep people from experiencing happiness.  It is the misbelief that happiness lands on some people and not others.  For people who struggle with joy they see others smiling and enjoying life and wonder how these people were so blessed to have a life free of stress and worry.  They then wonder why their own lives are fraught with disappointment. Here’s a news flash.  Absolutely everyone has something they are going through.  Regardless of whether it is minor or major, no one’s life is without challenges.  The people that seem to experience joy more consistently simply know that cultivating joy takes work.  It is not a laborious task that occurs in every moment but it does take effort.  Happiness doesn’t just happen. What is the secret?  As you may have guessed it starts with a mindset of intention.  Regardless of circumstance it will serve you to begin to see the happiness that exists in every moment.  Brendon Burchard, author of The Charge and the The Motivation M

Hey my friends, thank you for coming back to five minute mojo, your evening inspiration podcast.  If you are a new listener, welcome.  You have found a brief, but powerful way to end your day. A relaxing way.  Let’s get right into our quote by the Buddha. “When watching after yourself, you watch after others. When watching after others, you watch after yourself.” The Buddha I am no buddha scholar but I would say that in these sage words he’s saying that each of us needs to do our best to see to our individual needs so we can best take care of others.  Let’s break it down.  In the first line, When watching after yourself, you are watching after others”, buddha is pointing to the interconnectedness between you and those around you.  If any link in the chain is weak, the entire piece is frail, and that means you as well.   One of the biggest challenges I had as a personal trainer was helping people see how neglecting their needs was ultimately neglecting the needs of their family and friends.  Whether it was alt

Buddha and Lao-Tzu both talked about appreciating the present moment. They knew that the calm people yearned for was in the present moment.  Some 2500 years later we are beginning to realize that again.  Come listen to the quote that set it off, by Buddha. Questions of the day Have you ever been so captivated by something that you lost track of where you were Have you ever experienced a time in nature when everything seemed so incredibly vibrant and alive? Do you enjoy nature? Why or why not? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what yo

  It amazes me how some wisdom seems so timeless.  The quotes from the buddha that I have been reading all talk about principles that are of use today.  Take today’s quote for example. A jug is filled drop by drop Think about the simple wisdom in those 7 words.  The Buddha is saying that consistency is key.  it doesn’t matter how insignificant the action may seem; if it is repeated with consistency, the goal will be achieved. It’s clear that the Buddha took small consistent actions to heart.  Clearly he felt that actions, no matter how small, would lead to something great.  It seemed to be a common theme in China.  After all, Lao-Tau was quoted as saying A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. I think it is clear how both of these philosophers can add to our lives today.  For instance, when was the last time you were faced with a big project, either at home or at work?  Most people, take a look at a project and set their minds to worrying about all the effort it will take, all the time that will b

There will come a day when the entire world knows peace.  It may be right around the corner or hundreds of years from now.  Regardless of when it is, it flourishes when people speak kindly with one and other.  This goes for enemies as well as families and friends.  Today, I talk about peace, with wisdom supplied by the Buddha. Come listen. Question of the Day When was the last time you raised your voice?  What did you hope to accomplish by doing so? Did you? Is it possible to gain respect of others by speaking softly, kindly? What is the nature of your speech? Does it create a sense of calm. What is your volume, tone and speed like? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audienc

Question of the Day What resonates with you more: A life without Love or pain, or a life of Love with some pain How much of your life is suffering? Do you agree with the Buddha that the suffering you endure is because of attachment to things? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

In this final verse of the Tao-Te-Ching, Lao-Tzu talks about thee importance of lightening your load by getting rid of the things you are hoarding.  Going forward, simply do not collect things.  Be purposeful with your purchases.

Utopia is such a trap of a word.  Many people feel that it is the absence of any crime, corruption or pollution.  But Lao-Tzu encourages you to see the beauty in even the darkest squalor.  It is your eyes that behold Utopia, not the vista before the rest of the world. Question of the Day Do you see beauty everywhere you look? Is there light and beauty in the slums of cities What is your version of Utopia? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

Your heart will always remain heavy, unable to find peace, as long as you hold on to resentments.  Learn to forgive. It's a lesson that's at least as old as 2500 years ago.  Today, in verse 79 of the Tao-Te-Ching, Lao-Tzu extols the benefit of living without grudges. Question of the Day Do you harbor any grudges today? Who was the last person you fully forgave? Have you ever felt righteous before? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

Think of all the things that water can do.  A raging ocean is unstoppable.  A serene babbling brook brings peace.  It cleans, it relaxes and provides life.  Sounds like something we could emulate, huh? Question of the Day Who is someone you think of that is uncharacteristically strong? Is it possible to be strong by being softer? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

The man or woman of the Tao does not hoard.  Whatever he or she has in excess, he gives it to the world.  Charity and minimalism are the topics for today.  Come listen. Question of the Day When was the last time you gave to charity? If so, why did you? When you gave, did you tell anyone, or keep it to yourself? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

There are some traits that we desire to possess, and being easy-going and flexible are two of them.  Today, Lao-Tzu talks about how being agreeable and willing to bend as ways to succeed in life.  Come listen. Question of the Day Would people describe you as stubborn or inflexible? Do you think you are rigid? Is compromise a good thing or a bad thing? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

In today's world it is to become overwhelmed.  There are many times when each of us feel so put upon by those around us, and by ourselves.  Lao-Tzu reminds us in this 75th verse, to demand little from others.  Work to make their lives and our own, unencumbered.  Come listen. Question of the Day How do you take the pressure off of yourself when things seem overwhelming Do you take care of yourself? How much of your day is spent making life easier for others? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.

Question of the Day Are you afraid of dying? Would you want to know the exact date of your death? If you did know it, how, if at all, would you change your life? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Become a Super-Fan of ZEN commuter and 5 Minute mojo on Patreon and get exclusive bonuses just for ZEN commuter patrons. Thanks again for listening to the show! If it has helped you in any way, please share it using the social media buttons you see on the page. Also, reviews for the podcast on iTunes are extremely helpful, they help it reach a wider audience.  The more positive reviews the higher in the rankings it goes.  Of course that means more peace in the world.  So please let me know what you think.  I read ever one of them.