If you feel caught up in the ratrace of life with no way out, look for examples of people who have been able to create a life that works for them. Thousands, if not millions of people have created excellent health, satisfying work, good incomes, and fulfilling relationships for themselves. You can too. Learn from the example of other's success. Find out what they did, what was the process that brought them success, and see if it works for you too. Successful people are more than happy to share their secrets with others. Who do you admire? Imagine stepping into their shoes for a day. How would things be different? Talk to people who are already successful at what you would love most to do and learn from them. You don't have to start from scratch. Whatever would bring you the most joy has probably been done by at least one, if not by thousands. You will do it in your own unique way, but build on the experience and success of the people who are already happy and successful.

How does doing what you love create health in your life? When you feel positive about what you are doing, there is a literal increase in the number of white blood cells and other factors which make your immune system function well and protect you against illness. Endorphins, opiate-like substances produced in the brain when people are happy, create a physiological sense of pleasure and well-being. People who are happy, simply feel better and have a much greater chance of being healthy and curing disease. Norman Cousins, who recently spoke in Seattle, beat two life-threatening illnesses through the power of humor and laughter, and in the process created a whole new career for himself as the chief proponent of curing illness by laughing. He has enjoyed himself right out of the hospital all the way to the bank. You can too.

"That's all right for Norman", you might say," but what about me? I'm stuck going to work everyday to a job I hate". To go beyond being stuck, imagine the possibility that you could have it your way, that you actually do deserve a break today. But you have to create the opportunity by giving a clear message to yourself and the universe about what you would love to do and create a commitment to settle for nothing less. Then find out what the first step would be toward what you want and take it. Be ready for your present circumstances to dissolve as new opportunities present themselves. Even though you may have false starts and setbacks, keep doing the next step that seems obvious to you. Keep moving with the vision of your success in front of you, and you will soon find yourself doing what you love and enjoying the rewards of satisfaction, enjoyment and excellent health.

Drs. Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman and Robert Ullman are naturopathic and homeopathic physicians and cofounders of the Northwest Center for Homeopathic Medicine in Edmonds, WA. They are coauthors of The Patient's Guide to Homeopathic Medicine and Beyond Ritalin: Homeopathic Treatment of ADD and Other Behavioral and Learning Problems. They can be reached at (206) 774-5599.