"In the attitude of silence the soul finds the path in a clearer light, and what is elusive and deceptive resolves itself into crystal clearness. Our life is a long and arduous quest after Truth."

--Mahatma Gandhi

As the short days of winter settle in, we may be tempted to turn on the television or surf the internet in an effort to "kill" time. We may find ourselves going a little stir crazy or developing "cabin fever." The darkness falls quickly and the cold deters us from spending any quality time outdoors.

And yet, this is a wonderful opportunity for us to take inventory of our lives. These long and dark evenings give us the time that we need to truly effectuate change in our lives. Looking at our lives and facing the realities of where we are, compared to where we would like to be is the first step. When we take the time to allow our minds to relax and focus inward, we allow tiny springs of emotion and truth to enter our conscious mind. With enough focused, conscious thought, the same springs can turn into a torrent that ushers in the change that we so desperately want and need.

We are so busy these days with work, family, and social responsibilities that we have very little time for focusing on the tasks that will enhance and fulfill our lives. In the words of Stephen Covey, we need to ask ourselves one very important question:

"What one thing can I do (that I'm not doing now), that if I did on a regular basis, would make a tremendous, positive difference in my life?"

Are we able to answer this question and also to develop the inner discipline necessary to make it a reality? Yes! Can we do so while we are engaged in a million other, trivial, unimportant or unnecessary tasks? No! Can we do so while the television or radio is on? No!

What do we require to be able to answer this question? Silence. Stillness. Softness. Focus. Harmony. Introspection. We need all of the characteristics of silence that the long and dark days of winter can provide.

I challenge you today to begin your journey into silence. Learn to quiet your mind and spirit. Soften your eyes. Unclench your jaws and fists. Relax your shoulders. Tonight when you get home, grab a cup of warm tea and totter off to bed thirty minutes early. Take a few minutes and relax in a quiet place early in the morning. Focus on what you really should be doing on a regular basis to positively enhance your life.

You have everything you need to live a fulfilled and happy life! It's up to you to figure out what makes you happy, and you can only learn through a silent and reflective mood. Take the time today to make silence a part of your every day.

Susan Grossman is a certified personal trainer and group exercise instructor who has recently left a full-time corporate position to pursue her dream of self-employment and helping others with their weight loss and fitness goals. She has spent many years in martial arts training and has overcome her own struggles with weight loss. Visit her website to learn more: http://www.warsawssecret.com.