One positive thing that has come out of this uncertain world economy is that it has paved the road for incredible personal development within us all. Many of us are getting “back to basics” and remembering what is important in life.

In times when people are forced to step out of their comfort zone, true personal growth and fantastic breakthroughs can occur. But, how do you know if you’ve actually begun to change?

Some people wouldn’t change anything about themselves and I think that is great! I am not suggesting anyone make changes, but for those that are on a constant journey of growth and change, here are my notes from that pivotal speech.

Here are 10 signs that real change has begun in your own life:

1. Growing craving for nature (when trying to connect with yourself, you inherently crave nature)
2. Growing discomfort (uneasiness about what the future holds)
3. Growing sense of loneliness
4. New skills emerge that you didn’t know you had
5. New relationship with time (instead of psychological time, which is worrying about past or future – You enter clock time, which is living in the moment)
6. You no longer crave for the old bad ways of life
7. The depression and exhaustion doesn’t make sense anymore
8. New sense of self-curiosity
9. Suddenly you feel like everything that happened in the past is irrelevant
10. Instead of praying for “things” you start to pray for “strength” or “truth”

If you are feeling any of these things, you are on your way to achieving more personal satisfaction in your life.

Here’s what it takes to be a friend in need…

There are some essential attributes that one needs in order to be a good friend. Are you someone who others can turn to for support when they are down or are that friend who can listen for hours together without complaining? So, what’s your friend quotient?

Non-Judgmental
A true friend will never judge you. They will stand by you no matter what you do. They may ot agree with you, but they respect your right to make your own mistakes, have your own opinions, and walk the path you choose.

Supportive
A true friend will be the first person to offer you a supporting hand whenever you need. They will just help you put things right again. They won’t dismiss your sorrow for whatever reason it may be or won’t consider it as non-important. They will know that it is important to you, and that’s all that matters.

Good Listener
A true friend knows how to listen. Really listen, without feeling the need to talk and turn the conversation focus onto them. They’ll hear what you say and will be able to let you express yourself without interruption.

Faith
A true friend will give you a safe place to be yourself. If you say or do anything wrong, that will not be discussed or mocked by them.

Encouraging
A true friend will help you find your dreams. they will explore your life and help you move towards what you really want in life.