Daily Inspirational Reading

One of the suggested practices to cultivate in the Circle of Self Program is the practice of a Daily Inspirational Reading. The practice goes like this:
1) Select a source for your daily reading: a book, a calendar or web-based source (there is a list of suggestions on the circle of self website: http://www.circleofself.com/The source should offer reading material in that takes under two minutes to read. 
2) Commit to a time of day for your reading--choosing a time that is easiest for you to create the habit.  In the morning seems best for  most people--while brushing your teeth, when you turn on the computer for the day, in the privy while you take your daily constitutional...the choices are pretty much endless.  The key is to create a routine. 
3) The resulting effect of this practice is that the mind orients itself in a more positive mode.  It also gives the  mind something to focus on during the day and can be a great support for breaking ruminating thoughts and negative thinking patterns.

I was reminded of the effect of this practice in my own life this past week. I lost the current book I was using for my daily reading (An Altar in the World, by Barbara Brown Taylor).  I took it with me on my vacation last week and must left it laying somewhere.  I actually didn't notice I had left it for a few days because I was having a really good time and also out of my usual routine.  When I returned home, I was already out of my reading habit, and after a few days, I found myself more short-tempered and judgmental and more negative. Clients have also commented on the effectiveness of this practice for short-circuiting their negative thinking patterns, inspiring creativity and keeping them motivated.