Could Yoga help you deal with life's daily failures. Have you ever taken a close look at set-backs? Do you see a trail of defeat and feel sorry for yourself? Most of us do, so you would not be alone, but would you be in good company? Remember the saying, "Misery loves company." Maybe you need better company.

Here is a Yogic twist on misery, failure, and set-backs - Look forward to them and accept them. This is the Niyama we know as Santosha. Why should we accept or look forward to suffering?

Failure is part of life. You are not a failure because you failed. Failure is an event, which passes. You do not need to carry it around with you. To have failed is human and should not be used as a self-description.

The seeds of success are hidden within failure, so we should focus on the solution and move past the grieving stage. This is easier said than done, if we are in the "eye of the storm," but we all know it is a fact.

Therefore, expect that some failures and obstacles may cross your path. Prepare for hurdles and alter your plans toward the successful solutions. This does not mean we should anticipate, or continue to practice failures, but be ready to solve them - if, or when, they occur.

You may also want to consider enlisting some help from a positive-thinking friend, role model, or a mentor, along the way. An adventurous journey deserves good company. If you can acquire the help of successful people, you should never refuse it.

Through self-realization, you can see the "big picture," and your own space, within the universe. From this point, develop your direction toward your objectives. Be prepared to see days when success can be measured at a "snail's pace." An inch forward is better than a foot backward.

Practice Karma Yoga by giving and helping. Remain humble and share the glory during times of great success. Help others, and help build others, by giving them opportunities for advancement and growth. Never be afraid to give credit to others, and always look for the good in people.

Lastly, laugh at yourself and stop being too serious about life. Enjoy every minute you are here because none us knows how long it will be. As a friend and mentor of mine once said, "Life is too uncertain, therefore, eat dessert first."

Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications