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The Emotional Toolkit Monthly
Practical Strategies to Boost Your Happiness, Health & Longevity
September 2008
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In This Issue:
-- What Can We Learn From Dara Torres?
-- Tip of the Month
-- In the News

What Can We Learn From Dara Torres?
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 I admit that no one would ever mistake me for an accomplished athlete unless you consider yoga an advanced sport. And yet, I'm inspired by Olympic athlete Dara Torres, the 41-year- old swimmer representing the United States in Bejing.

Although Dara and I share the status of "middle-age," it's not just that number that makes her a hero to me and many others. It's the fact that she's shattering the limit of what others believe is possible.

In an interview with Matt Lauer on The Today Show, Dara said, "The water doesn't know how old you are." For her, the only beliefs that matter are the ones in her own head.

How many times have you thought that you couldn't have what you really want in life because of your age, or where you were born or how much money you have? And yet, Dara is showing us that beliefs can be changed and limitations can be broken. What rules are you buying into that prevent you from living your happiest life?


Tip of the Month
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How to shatter your own limitations:

  • What Do You Tell Yourself? Sure, Dara trained like a fiend for this Olympics, but she wouldn't have done it unless she believed she belonged in Beijing. It all starts with a belief. Ask, "What do I tell myself about my life? Do I see myself as deserving, capable and open to possibility?"


  • Get A Support System Dara surrounds herself with a team of people who believe in her. Do the same. Find people who want you to succeed. Stay away or limit your conversations with those who point out all the obstacles you might face "for your own good."


  • Conquer Fear: Anticipate that fear will strike at some point and prepare for it. When that little voice in your head says, "I can't do this," ask yourself, "What's the worst that could happen if I try?"

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    In the News
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    Your Happiest Life Blog


    Check out Darlene's blog, "Your Happiest Life", and learn how to get happier using your computer. http://yourhappiestlife.blogspot.com.





    About Dr. Darlene Mininni
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    Dr. Darlene Mininni is the author of The Emotional Toolkit and creator of UCLA's acclaimed emotional education course. She has a PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Masters degree in Public Health. Through her keynotes, writing and one-day workshops, Dr. Mininni teaches people of all ages practical strategies to boost their happiness, health and longevity. Woman's World Magazine describes her emotional toolkit as "Cutting-edge advice...that really works." She's appeared on CNN, NPR and PBS and been quoted in SELF, COSMO, Woman's Day, Marie Claire, Ladies Home Journal and Prevention.



    Darlene Mininni, Ph.D., M.P.H.
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