NEVER A DULL MOMENT WHY WE SHOULD LIVE FOR TODAY
We can’t change the past, nor can we predict or guarantee the future. In the end, all we have is the present, yet most of us live our lives ignoring its many possibilities. It’s easy to tune out the life around you, especially if you do many of the same things every day. Taking care of the kids, commuting, working, and running errands can blur together. Just as bad, when life isn’t going the way we want, it’s easy to fantasize about how things “should” be or how they once were. When we live busy or stressful lives, worrying or planning can also make us feel more in control. The problem with these strategies is that they don’t change anything. They help us discount the only thing we can control: what we do now. Life can pass you by that way if you’re not careful. The solution is to exist in the present moment as much as possible and enjoy the good things around us while we have them. Studies show that living this way makes people happier, healthier, and more likely to form strong relationships. But how do you even get started? The process requires a different way of thinking called mindfulness. Mindfulness is about focusing on what is happening in the present moment — not that work deadline,
the movie you just watched, what’s for dinner, or the kids’ extracurricular schedule. It takes practice, and many people use meditation or breathing to help. When mindful, we concentrate on what others say and become more fully present. We also start to notice the small things we usually overlook: the cool breeze on our skin, the sound of the birds, the feel of a sweater, or the sight of our loved ones smiling. Our lives become fuller. And our stress decreases because we’re not clinging to things beyond our command.
No one ever stops worrying entirely, and some planning is necessary to live a successful life. But too much can leave us with no energy or time to enjoy it. John Lennon once sang, “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans.” Start living in the present so you don’t blink and miss yours.
Documents You’ll Need For a Social Security Disability Application
If your application is denied, the reconsideration process may take as long as six months. Sometimes it can take even longer, and lately, that seems to be the case. This translates into thousands of dollars in missed benefits and could result in financial hardship for your family. The SSA requires that original documents be submitted with your application for benefits. You may take them to the local SSA office or mail them in with your application. Once received, the SSA will copy the documents and return the originals to you.
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List of employers and the type of work you did — typically for the last 15 years W-2 forms for the last 10 years or tax returns if you were self-employed Names, addresses, and phone numbers for all doctors, hospitals, therapists, clinics, etc. you have visited and the dates of all visits Complete medical records, including laboratory and test results List of all medications you are currently taking and the dosage of each Adult Disability Report (Form SSA-3368)
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Social Security Disability applications are denied for many reasons, but one of the most common is a lack of supporting documentation. We see this time and time again. That’s why you need to make sure your initial application is as complete as possible. We understand the application process is quite time-consuming, but failing to get everything together for the Social Security Administration (SSA) is one of the main reasons so many applications are denied.
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The information you provide will be reviewed by the Disability Determination Services department and discussed at your disability application interview. If you have any questions about the process or are in need of assistance, please give our office a call. We’re here to help!
Here is a list of the original documents required with your application:
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Proof of age (i.e., birth certificate) and Social Security Number
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Hartwig Law Firm | (508) 732-8989
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