Navigationally. Know where you are and where other things in your immediate vicinity are. If you do not know that there is a chair in front of you, you may stub your toe. Obvious, yes, but so true.

Chronologically. Timing is everything. Be aware of the order in which things are happening, how time is passing, what you should be doing next, and how much time you have in which to do it. This avoids unnecessary, last minute panic, the embarrassment of being late, and the annoyance of being far too early. Instead, be in the right place at the right time.

Historically. The history of your community, your country, and the world relates to and affects what is happening to you and how you think right now.

Geographically. Those living in tropical countries do not live in the same manner as those living in Scandinavia. Living in a valley is very different from living on a hill. Be aware of and be flexible about geographical variances – they can dictate whether we exist comfortably or fail to survive.

Experientially. Being aware of your prior influences allows you to look for ways in which your past may be affecting your present choices. Remember, you are creating your past right NOW!

Physically. It may sound bizarre to consider not being fully aware of your own body, but it happens. Pregnant women, for instance, will often misjudge their size as they bend down to reach for something. We all experience changes to which we have not yet adapted in our minds. Don’t you sometimes like to picture yourself as you used to be (maybe 5 or 10 years ago)?

Directionally. Some people get lost when they head for their own mailbox. Others can be on a road that they have never seen before, but still head directly toward their destination. They may not know the road, but they know the direction in which they need to travel.

Hierarchically. You may disapprove of hierarchies, but the reality is that we live in them. Most of us have partners or bosses – people for whom we must make decisions and for whom and to whom we are responsible. Being aware of our position keeps us from behaving in a way that may be inappropriate.

Genetically. No, our genes do not have to be our destiny, but they do affect us. A genetic tendency in one direction or another may be either helpful or hindering. Allow for your genetic tendencies, and, if necessary, try to compensate for or protect yourself against them.

Carpe diem,