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As many of us continue to work from home this winter, you may be looking for creative ways to stay productive during the colder months. Before, we were able to take advantage of the warmer weather, go on a quick walk outside, and had plenty of sunlight pouring into our home office setup. But as the sun begins to set earlier and the cold temperatures are here to stay, staying motivated may become more of a challenge. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to combat the winter gloom and boost your productivity as you work from home. 

Redfin reached out to me, along with other top productivity experts, for our advice to help make your home office setup a more productive work environment. So whether you’re living in snowy Detroit or rainy Seattle, these expert tips are guaranteed to help make your home office a place of inspiration and motivation. Check out what we had to say at the link below!

Experts Reveal How to Create a More Productive Home Office Setup this Winter

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Photo by John Sting on Unsplash

Lately, I’ve heard and have had information shared with me concerning people local and nationwide that have either taken their own lives, those who are feeling isolated, secretly suffering with depression, or they simply don’t feel worthy or accepted.

This subject truly touched my heart and is dear to me.

As stated in previous blog post. Our world is massive. We currently have approximately 7 billion people in the world. People coming and going, tending to business and their families, loved ones, hobbies or their goals. Laughing, sharing their dreams with one another, going out to eat, hanging out with friends, dining, tending to their gardens, attending sports events, traveling, having dinner with families and more!

Busy, busy, busy.

So many things are going on.

So, the other day…I was at an orientation and towards break time a woman at my table just came out and stated that she was just at a lost for words at that moment. She was in shock.

To give you a little backdrop. I’ve learned of my spiritual gifts, and one of them is that people gravitate towards me because of my spirit, my aura, and they seem to call me or walk up to me not even knowing me and pour their heart out to me and express themselves. I used to be totally confused and not understand why. However, I’ve learned and gotten quite used to it. I’d attentively listen, show empathy (as I’m an empath), console, comfort, shed light, or pray if need be.

Back to the story. So, I asked her why and what was wrong? She stated she just found that one of the leaders at the camp won’t be back because she’s no longer with us. She stated that the lady took her own life. She was very close to the lady and looked up the her as a mentor and leader of the camp. She was very confused and distraught and I truly was touched and saddened.

We spoke for a while about the subject and whenever she would see the lady, she seemed fine. Evidently, she did to others and maybe even her family. Now at times, people know we are down but again, it’s so good to take it a step further and see if there’s anything you can do. If they want to talk, perhaps refer them to resource if you know they are suffering.

Another thing that touched me was the fact that the female stated. A few weeks before she found out the news, the camp leader called her asking her if she wanted to go to lunch. The woman turned her down at that time. She felt it was a little strange for her to call her asking her to go to lunch due to the fact that in the past they didn’t have a social relationship outside of camp. The female stated if she knew what she knew now, she would have taken her up on her offer.

This brought to mind the blog post that I wrote concerning going deeper with your loved ones. We are all busy, but someone close to you may be secretly be suffering inside. It is so good to go deeper with the people you care about because people who are suffering may wear a mask and they have learned to wear it well.

Go a step beyond. “How’s your day?” If you don’t do this or haven’t in a while, try calling someone “just because.” I’ve noticed a lot lately that when I call someone, they always seem think I want something and generally we ask, “What’s up?”

What happened to the days when we’re simply taking time out of our day to just call to say hello, to see how someone is doing, or to ‘catch up’ with them since the last time you talked?

Please reach out to others and see how their emotional state is. Maybe they haven’t been out the house in a while. Maybe they don’t call or take interest in things they used to, or maybe their mood, demeanor, or outlook on things changed.

Go deeper. Take an interest in them on another level.

So please, if something seems strange, take the time to ask about it. Ask further questions. Reach out. People are reaching out to us and we need to be in a state to see the signs as best as we can.

It’s not easy for people to tell you what they secretly struggle with. So be of help, take your relationships a step further, and reach out to them and SHOW you care and love them through your actions beyond the normal day to day routine, actions, reactions or questions.

Photo by Hian Oliveira on Unsplash

Isn’t it so nice when you receive an unexpected act of kindness? A kind word. Maybe someone holds the door for you or throws a little something extra in your bag.

Random acts of kindness truly make a difference in someone’s day. Simply being nice, showing love or kindness isn’t done to receive–it’s done to give!

Giving from the heart without expectation is a great quality to have and it also makes you feel good!

Think back for a moment.

Didn’t you appreciate when someone showed you kindness or love when you weren’t in your best mood? When you may have not been too pleasant at all? Did you have a change of heart? Did their love and compassion make you feel better? Did it make you realize that you may not have had the best reaction toward them or could have taken a nicer approach?

I know I’m guilty of it! Being that no one is perfect, you just may be able to relate.

I’ve found that paying it forward and passing along the love, kindness and compassion adds to the beautiful cycle of higher vibration. This act reminds others that, “Yes! there are plenty of good people in the world.” There are people with great hearts and people who truly care for the world and others.

So, if you haven’t paid it forward in a while, or if you need a refresher, or are in an emotional rut–go for a kindness test drive! (lol yes, I tend to sometimes get a little cheesy).

You will find that your mood will be lifted. Your spirit will be in a better place. Why? Well, simply put, kindness is contagious. Doing something for others make you feel good because of good deeds. Also, seeing someone’s mood lifted as a result of your action has a boomerang effect on your mood. Lastly, love makes the world go round.

So take the time to share and show love! Be a part of something bigger than yourself! Let your inner light shine. Be one of the flavorful grains of Earth and do it with pure joy! You’ll attract more positive energy, people, and opportunities.

Best wishes in creating high vibration ripple effects!

If you need help getting out of your “rut,” let’s chat.

Are you going deeper with loved ones?

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Lately, I was spiritually inspired concerning the thought of going deeper with the people I love. I’m sure you’ve heard of the 12 lives that were taken and the many others who were injured in Virginia Beach–our neighboring city. It hit close to home and that also made me think about the concept of loving deeper. Are we truly showing love to the people in our lives? I wonder just how many people actually take the time to go deeper with the people who are in their circle.

This is a very important topic to me. It’s such a delicate and crucial subject about which I am passionate.

I’ll start by saying, no matter what your belief, I feel that we are spiritual beings having a human experience vs. being a human being that may encounter spiritual experiences.

I’ve thought about, witnessed, and discovered people that have passed on and have not really known their loved ones on a deeper level. Some situations are drastic–a loved one who may have been leading a double life or one who made decisions that didn’t benefit them. This may have led to criminal charges, being in the wrong place at the wrong time, being involved in a destructive situation. I believe we should feel that we can confide in our loved ones. We should feel that we can talk openly. At times we don’t feel safe to open up in fear of judgement or rejection, ridicule, etc. We should remove the stigma surrounding mental health and talking about it. Mental health is a crucial area. This could include minor to major health topics–depression, anxiety, and OCD, to name a few.

Sometimes, loved ones don’t really pay attention when they are around individuals who are in need of support. Some may ask, “How are you?” but do we truly wait for a real answer? Just like a child or adolescent, you may only get a basic answer unless you go deeper. For instance saying, “Hey, I know you may be good, but if you ever feel down and out, please let me know. I’m here to listen.” or, “How are you on a deeper level?” Try to word it in a way that will be relatable to the person with whom you’re speaking.

Please take the time to go deeper. Also, I truly believe there’s a time and, of course, a place for everything. So pray for guidance if you pray, and ask for the proper words to say. I love the people in my life. I truly do! As I mentioned at the beginning of this content, I was truly inspired to share this with you because I’m making an effort to go deeper and it’s truly important that we know our loved ones on a deeper level.

If we love them, then we will care about their spiritual life, their emotional wellness, their mental health, and wellness.

A lot of people you see every day are depressed and they hide it well. Many are even lonely and it contributes to a number of health conditions. Also, many of people have been affected by broken heart syndrome. There are a number of stressful occurrences that can trigger broken heart syndrome. For example, when a close spouse or loved one goes home in spirit, it can affect the other spouse physically.

Please, take the time to go deeper, comfort others, ask for guidance, strength, and courage to go deeper in love with the ones you love. Just how well do you know your mother or father, your sister or brother, your friend, your in laws, etc.?

Now, some people may have this taken care of and that’s a beautiful thing. However, there are a lot of people (including me) who want to go deeper and have those conversations that bring us to truly know our loved one.

Take that love you have and go deeper. When we take just ONE step, things happen. You may not get an instant result, but make your intentions known.

To sum things up, we all have a big impact on one another. We are all connect and affect each other. You may not SEE a reaction or a result of your impact at that moment, but you are sowing seed DAILY with your thoughts, your actions, your reactions and response to others.

Take the time to love, to care, to shine your inner light brightly. And if you need a tune up, get one. Take the time to get by yourself and do some self/spiritual tuning. Be a positive, loving example.

Lastly, let someone know you care about their well-being on a deeper level. Form and nurture those meaningful relationships. Our life is precious and we all need people who care about us and it’s nice to know we are cared about. People need to know they are more than just a title. Light hearted conversation is good, but who’s gonna step up and take the time to go deeper in love, with the people who mean the most?

Photo by Caroline Attwood on Unsplash

It’s morning, and the sun is gently nudging you to wake up and celebrate the new day. You wrap your oversized terrycloth robe around you and navigate straight to the kitchen. There you find your “be happy” mug and make yourself the perfect cup of coffee. With coffee in hand, you grab your phone and head to your favorite chair.  Staring out the window, you get lost in thought, as the sun gently warms your face. Suddenly you notice a brilliantly colored bluebird perched on top of your freshly planted pink tulips.

You immediately grab your cell phone and snap dozens of pictures. Thrilled to share your experience with the world you crop and filter your images. Finally, you add a quick quote and some well-placed hashtags and click post. While you await the flood of likes, comments, and shares you are confident you’ll receive from your photo you decide to see what is happening in other people’s lives. You begin to scroll, and suddenly you read an angry political rant. Then you scroll further, and someone is complaining about the traffic in the city, then a boyfriend who didn’t text, and a neighbor’s dog that won’t stop barking, and so on and so on. You reach to grab your coffee, but just like your cheerful disposition, it has turned cold. The sun is now hurting your eyes, and all you want to do is go back to bed. Then suddenly you see a comment notification on your picture. You click to read the comment and feel instantly irritated. Someone you’ve never met posted: “I’m allergic to pink tulips, not to mention your optimism.” You immediately feel the discomfort of walking on social media eggshells as you try to craft a response. 

Dealing with these situations are at the least, awkward, and the worst exhausting. So, here are some helpful tips for treading lightly over these crunchy, unsavory words and keeping the good vibes flowing.  

1.    Don’t take the Bait!

Did you know the word “offense” comes from the Greek word scandalon? A scandalon is the part of a trap that holds the bait in place to lure animals to it. So, when you are tempted to be offended think of the offense as bait and don’t allow yourself to walk into someone else’s negativity trap. 

2.    Lighten Up!

Using humor with the right attitude can change almost any situation. For instance, in the above example if someone said, “I’m allergic to pink tulips, not to mention your optimism.” You can always reply with, “Sorry to hear that. Have you ever tried taking Claritin? It’s great for all types of allergies.” 

Another option is to ignore what they said and move on. Nothing says you have to respond or take the negative baggage they are handing you. Drop it and find something else to do that will bring you joy.  

3.    Don’t Be “Tone Deaf.”

 Have you ever wondered why someone took something you wrote the wrong way? Well, now you can analyze your own words before you hit send. By using a tone analyzer, you can predict how your message or words will be perceived. The tone analyzer can accurately detect the emotion your text, tweets, and even emails convey to your readers. Click https://tone-analyzer-demo.ng.bluemix.net/ and try it out yourself. It might save you from an argument you never intended to start. 

4.    We’ll that Escalated Quickly! 

Cyber bullies are real, and if you encounter someone who seems to have a never-ending arsenal of negativity to hurl at you, you have two options. 

o    Option One: Be direct. In these circumstances, I advise my clients to have a prewritten response ready to cut and paste into a direct message. Often, we fail to recognize someone who wants to be heard and forget that a simple direct message will stop the vitriol. 

Example:

Dear (Insert Name)

In my life, I actively choose to focus on the positive. It’s my life’s purpose to share love, knowledge, and information responsibly. I apologize if I have offended you in any way. It was not my intention, nor will it ever be. I wish nothing but success and blessings for everyone my platform reaches on social media or online. Please know I will be praying for you, and also for myself, so that we will both communicate more clearly in the future.  

Respectfully,  

o    Option Two: 

If you’ve done everything you can and someone won’t stop harassing you can use the block and report option. But be aware this is often a temporary fix as many trolls have multiple profiles on these platforms. 

5.    BE UNSOCIAL!

In a world chock-full of likes, tags, comments, and swipes it’s hard to imagine a time when technology didn’t exist. On the one hand, these tools are wonderful and keep us all connected. We share our lives, hopes, dreams, and victories. But on the other hand, they can sometimes feel intrusive, negative, time-consuming and downright energy depriving. So lastly don’t be afraid to log off or deactivate your account every now and again. Life is beautiful, but there are times we will face challenges. In these times it’s best to save our energy for what matters. (And trust me arguing on Social Media does not fall into that category.)

If you’d like to talk or feel stuck, please don’t hesitate to reach out. And if these have helped you feel free to share. 

Photo by Lili Kovac on Unsplash

Gratitude

Having an attitude of gratitude is essential to having a happy life. Being thankful or grateful comes from the heart and therefore exudes positive energies of appreciation. When we’re appreciative we exude a happy, caring, joyful disposition. You will find yourself attracting people of the same demeanor.

Perception

Because there are so many layers and facets to life, it may be overwhelming at times. For example, highs and lows. Some may say a particular outcome, situation, or reaction is good or bad, positive or negative. Another may say that the same situation wasn’t a bad thing and that it was simply a learning experience.

Our perceptions create our realities.

Staying grounded and focused on priorities, keeping an open mind, maintaining open communication, and getting feedback from people who care for you and have your best interest at heart could help. Often times we may be distant or in a disagreement with someone and after taking the time to sit down with them, be open and honest with them. We may find that both or maybe one of the person’s perceptions were off. Sometimes what we think isn’t always the case.

Creating your space

I believe that our homes should be our personal oasis–that it should exude peace and tranquility, joy, and comfort. I believe that your personal space (whether it be the whole home, your office, personal space, or man cave) should represent who you are. Why not make it reflect the colors of your personality, by using different textures, pictures, posters, inspirational quotes, values, or motivations. Don’t be afraid to get creative, edgy, fun, or playful with your space. If you’re more of a straight-edged person, you may prefer clean lines, fewer colors (black, whites, greys), which a classy look, yet effective. The bottom line of creating your space (depending on what it’s being used for) is to make it all about you! On the other hand, if you’re in a relationship, married, or have roommates, of course, you can work it out where each of you can add your personal touch. If your fortunate to have space to yourself, GO FOR IT!! There’s so much going on outside of your home. As I mentioned before, our home should be our oasis. When I think of my home or my personal space, I think of the peace of mind that it’s gives. I think of a relaxing, fun, happy, and loving environment. It should be safe and where creativity flows. We’re at our best when we’re happy, calm and content. We’re in our zone when we’re confident and free to be us. Ideas come to life! That’s where the magic happens!

Shine your light! Say yes! Be grateful!

Shine your inner light! Positive energy is contagious! Delight in things that bring you joy. You are unique and specially made, for no one can take your place. Be the best version of yourself without any regrets. Work smart. Don’t burn yourself out. Take time for self. Got an obstacle? You were born to win; take the time and seek resources to help you figure it out! Unwind and relax! Kickback. Meditate. Take a breather. Be a believer. An Achiever. Say YES to your best life! A stress-free life! Say YES to your dreams (they can hear you!) Express yourself. Speak your truth! Speak it with love, whatever you do. Uplift someone, It matters. Be grateful. Quick to listen, Slow to speak, slow to get angry. Start fresh tomorrow. Love and encourage yourself just as much as you would a good friend. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Sleep well. Dream big! Love big! Laugh hard. Delight is the beautifulness of life that people may take for granted. What brings you joy? Do that more! Guide your dreams around all your roadblocks and soar!!!

Photo by stokpic

In our lifetime, by choice, we build all kinds of relationships. On the other hand, our relationship role of being born into a family is chosen for us. Of course, That may be the role of a sister or a brother. A niece or a nephew. With that said, we have lots of relationships by choice or not that we’re surrounded by these relationships can play a major part of who we are or not. Whether we want them to or not. They can affect us subconsciously.

In an ideal world, it would be nice to be surrounded by people who love and support us 24/7. Having those people express that through their actions, not just their words. It would be nice to have people to root for us, believe in us, encourage us, and motivate us if need be. “Oh yes!” Having someone to build us up versus tearing you down feels good.

All of the above are priceless and at times and for some, (relative or not) are simply hard to come by.

So if you have a supportive circle, person, or persons, hold on to them. Give back in any way you can. Don’t take them for granted and let them know verbally that you appreciate them. Often times we think many things of people, but rarely take the time to express an attitude of gratitude. About which, we’ll discuss at a later time.

If you don’t happen to have a great support system, first and foremost (let me tell ya!) our heavenly Father is just a prayer away!!

Jeremiah 29:12-13; “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Whether you’re a believer or not, he’s there and is NOT distant at all! All you need is the faith of a mustard seed! (and that’s tiny, yet effective!!!)

And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6 NLT

He’s the best support system you will ever have. Because truth be told, some of the closest people we have in our lives aren’t going to be so supportive. Whether it is truly listening vs. simply hearing you, telling you they believe in you, that it’s okay, giving you words of wisdom, hugs (if needed), a shoulder to cry on, or simply a trusting relationship someone you can confide in.

I know lots of people including myself to whom I’d love to run and share some good or exciting news. But I have to think twice before doing so. You may not get their full attention. Do they make time for you? Do they secretly wish for your downfall? Are they dependable? Do they make you feel like they have your best interest in mind? These are all good questions and sadly, we don’t always have a supportive group. We may have to trim the fat. Discard the toxic relationships. Reassess our circle. Recreate a circle. Take some time alone to regroup.

As, my Grandma used to say, “Can’t nobody do you like the Lord.” Okay, I didn’t write this with the intention of preaching, LOL. However, it is my intention to express my truths, to get you the “Good news”, and to keep it real and simply talk to you because I truly care for each and every person that comes across this article and I sincerely wish you the best!

Getting back to the second of all. Concerning those of us who may not have such a positive circle. Don’t worry! There are plenty of options for you! (Aside for praying for guidance and direction, first.) You can always (with technology nowadays) join a support group or a group in general. One of my favorites is Meetup. You can go to http://www.meetup.com or simply download the app. It’s a great way to connect and meet up with groups of individuals that have the same interest. You have to check it out! If you’re an entrepreneur seeking to link with other like-minded entrepreneurs to network, etc. this is the place! Perhaps, your an introvert. Yep, they have Meetups for that too! Maybe you’re a single parent, Maybe you like to travel, seeking to meet new people, have always wanted to join a book club, enjoy spirituality, Law of attraction, sports or more! The options are endless!

Now, I have to clear this up. This app is NOT a dating app (AT ALL!) and they will tell you that within some of the groups. With that being said, they do have groups that people create that are for singles that just want to hang out or venture out. You can even create your own group! So basically, let’s say I create a group. I note my intentions and description for the group and set an event and date. There may be 400 people in the group and whoever is interested RSVP within the app that they are coming out. You can safely chat within the app and meet new, people. This is a great option, however, it’s just one option. Groups and an organization that you’re a part of can be a good resource. So is finding a mentor. Find people who are doing what you are striving to do.

Speak your truth, keep believing in you even when no one else may not. Keep pushing. Exude positive energy. Like attracts like and positive people of the same mindset will soon enter your life. Keeping an open mind is always helpful because your blessings make be in disguise. Things don’t always happen the way we may think. So, keep on being your beautiful self, striving towards the dreams, goals and lovely aspirations and I’ll be keeping you in my prayers because you matter and you are valued! Keep that circle tight! Our time and energy is precious so be careful of whom you give it to.

Photo by Tachina Lee on Unsplash

Everything starts with a thought…

Striving towards new desires such as new dreams, goals, lifestyles, the beautiful journey of self discovery, or maybe a shifting career paths, etc. is so exciting!!! We get pumped up, hopeful, (as we should) adrenaline starts to flow which leads to creative ideas and inspirations…Then somewhere down the line the excitement fizzles…Why is that? What causes us to get worked up about something we truly desire–only to have it sit on the back burner marinating?

One of the culprits it’s our mindset. Our core, limiting beliefs. Toxic, doubts, fears or worries. Fear of failure, fear of success (yes, that’s a thing) or maybe procrastination sets in…All these things can keep us lacking what we ultimately desire in life.

The big shift that moves causes us to want more, to want something different, better or simply more in alignment with WHO we truly are may come through experiences that forces us to grow and develop. It may come through an unfulfilling or unpleasant experience in which we discover what we truly desire, shifting us in a whole new direction in life. This is a good thing. We are meant to evolve–to better ourselves so that we can help others and live our true purpose.

I believe we shouldn’t and don’t have to live a box. We can reinvent ourselves at any time. Just because you’ve been known as a (fill in the blank) all your life, that doesn’t mean you have to stay in that role or mindset! Let’s chat!

Truth be told, “Life is a precious gift!” Life is something to be cherished and your mindset, the vibe that you give off, focus, intentions, and belief play a MAJOR role in it. You have a purpose, you are unique to your personality, your skills, talents, and abilities. There is only one of you and you are wonderfully and carefully made. -Psalm 139:14 There’s only one of you and you are valuable. What you do and say affects others. You are need and bettering yourself is a reward within itself! This is YOUR time! This is YOUR moment! I would like to ask you as one child of God to the next…

• Are you happy?
• Are you fulfilled?
• What purpose your soul calling you towards?
• What are your deepest desires, hopes and dreams?
• What have you always wanted to experience?
  
• What do you want to overcome, conquer, accomplish?
• Where do you want to Visit or travel to?
• What are some of your limiting beliefs?
• Are you feeding your spirit?
• How is your thought life?
• Is your mind constantly wondering?
• Are your thoughts more positive or negative?

These are somethings to ponder on. Our mind is constantly on the go. It’s up to us to assess our thought life and gain control. If you’re a believer in the word, boldly submit your negative thoughts to the word of God. To add to that, you may want to get a scripture or affirmation that pertains to your current situation and keep it with you (mentally or written down) throughout your day. It’s also a good thing to have or create a morning ritual or routine. Setting your intentions, being grateful (stating it out loud or writing it down vs. thinking it helps a lot! Keeping a gratitude, journal, or journaling in general is therapeutic. Morning inspiration in any form (music, motivational podcast, video, Ted Talks) are all beneficial and getting out in Nature is good for grounding our minds and energy. Lastly, as I mentioned before Taking that “me time” is “oh” such a good one.

Best wishes to you in your journey of personal development, growth, transformation and career change. I hope you’ve found this info useful. I’m leaving you with links to affirmations and a few scriptures concerning mindset. Peace (of mind), love and light to you! God Bless.

Affirmations link for mindset ( Brief, general info on affirmations) **Affirmations located mid page https://theblissfulmind.com/2018/10/07/positive-affirmations-list/

Affirmation link for success
https://www.theemotionmachine.com/75-affirmations-for-personal-development/

Scriptures concerning mindset and our Thought life…

Philippians 4:8
 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

Proverbs 23:7
For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he

Isaiah 54:17
No weapon formed against you shall prosper,
And every tongue which rises against you in judgment
You shall condemn.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,
And their righteousness is from Me,”
Says the Lord.

Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Romans 12:2
 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Photo by Nicole Berro from Pexels

As we push forward on our journey of personal development, we can get so caught up in the overall goal, that we may overlook  the need for a little self-care. (TLC, as we called in back in the day.) It may come easy to get less sleep, push our self throughout the day, eat less healthier (because it’s convenient), allow our minds to roam in a variety of directions, or simply not take time out for self.

Yes! Our bodies are equipped to handled a lot. It’s amazing to me of just how beautifully crafted and created we are. It is quite known that we can go for long periods at a time (especially when were in our early years) with being on a constant move in life without much time for self. However, in the long run, it can take a toll on our health. Growing older gracefully and healthy is surely on my radar and growing older doesn’t necessary mean health problems. There are plenty of healthy senior/older people still very active (jogging, making their own groceries, making a difference in the world, etc.) So Speak Life! and take action.

We wear many “hats” in our lives as mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, uncles, aunts, business persons, caretaker of family members, friends and maybe even entrepreneurs. So, I can definitely understand how we can easily focus on others’ needs more so than our own needs.

While we are aware that self care is important, I’d like to break down why and how it’s vital to our wellbeing (mind, body and spirit.)

• It’s helps in regaining focus. Self-care allows your mind and body a moment’s rest, which gives you time to refocus, refresh, and rejuvenate.
• It prevents overload and burnout. Overwork does not only have the potential to stunt your body through lack of sleep, nutrition, and exercise, it could possibly also stunt your brain function. Don’t hesitate to work with your healthcare professional on this one. You need to take a break so you can be your best for that next step in development.
• Proper rest and/or sleep helps your body to literally heal itself, fine tune all systems, and help you function properly throughout the day (focus, memory and concentration.)
• Self care activates feel good hormones. Knowing that you’re doing something for yourself is rewarding and fulfilling.
• Taking time for your interests, your joys, hobbies, etc. is satisfying.
• What good is accomplishing your goals, desires and dreams if you’re not in the right mindset and health state to enjoy it or carry it out? 
• Through self-care, we gain the vital benefit of reducing the toxic effect of mental, emotional or physical stress. Okay, so we know it’s hard to avoid stress 24/7.  As we go through our day striving, we discover through circumstances and situations what we want/don’t want, like and dislike, what works and doesn’t work.  We learn, grown and develop from that. A healthy dose of stress cause us to make a prompt decision for instance and bad stress can cause to freeze up, shut down, act out towards someone or a situation that we may later regret.
• Self care is sometimes knowing when to simply say “no” before you commit yourself at the drop of a dime.
• I encourage you to do things you enjoy. Taking time for you is not selfish.
  
• Stress relief and self care is sometimes doing nothing at all!

   
I also want to share some physical signs of having too much stress. Please know that our thoughts, moods, and feelings have a direct effect and connection to our bodies and the way we feel which effects the state of our spirit. Mind, Body and Spirit are connected. So, I encourage you to take time to guard your thoughts, (Speak life!), take care of your body, take time for self and lastly, take time for your Spirit. I’ll be going deeper into these areas at a later time. But, for now here’s the list of signs of too much stress.
   

• Decreased Energy and Insomnia
• Headaches
•   Digestive Issues 
•   Appetite Changes 
•   Body aches 
•   Irritability (more angry or anxious than usual)
•  Inability to concentrate or complete tasks  
  
•   Stuttering or stammering 
•   Gritting, grinding teeth  
  

I enjoy seeing people at their best! So, I truly hope that this was beneficial to you in any way. Thank you so much for taking the time to read and take care of yourself.  Sending peace, love and prosperity to you and yours! Once again, I believe in you and the power of the creator that’s in you! “A better you provides a better quality of life!” I’m a gift, and so are you!!

Photo by Noah Buscher on Unsplash

Personal Development has many layers. Today, I’d like to discuss the Self Awareness aspect of the topic. We all know that Personal Development, simply put, means “developing self.” However, it’s much deeper than that.

The Wikipedia description says that Personal development covers activities that improve awareness and identity, develop talents and potential, build human capital and facilitate employability, enhance the quality of life and contribute to the realization of dreams and aspirations.

Development of self is a journey of a lifetime. We’re constantly changing, growing, and reaching new heights, things, goals, desires, etc.

With the fact in mind that everything starts with a thought, I feel that speaking on Self Awareness is an appropriate starting point.

Being aware of self awareness is crucial.
* Who are you exactly? 
*What does your distinct blueprint consist of?
*What are your values and beliefs?
*What makes you unique from another?
*What drives you and keeps you moving forward?

Being true to self and knowing thyself is a treasure and a gift that will reap great rewards. This is valuable for you and those around you. There’s a great deal of personal fulfillment gained when it comes to fulfilling a dream, taking action, or doing something that YOU wanted to do. At times, we may not know exactly WHO we are. It may take a situation or circumstance to help us realize last what we REALLY want or don’t want. There are subtle clues and hints to guide us, so don’t ignore them. If may come about as a gut feeling, an intuitive thought, a feeling of discomfort or a good or bad vibe. Knowing yourself, not being too hard on yourself, taking time out to nourish, relax, pamper, or treat yourself is comforting and gratifying. So take time to love yourself, know yourself and give yourself just as much encouragement as you would give a loved one or friend.

We all have our weaknesses and strengths. Take time to acknowledge and honor the awareness of these. Because these are the things that make you– you. There is always room to develop, grow and learn. With the help of self-help books, affirmations, coaches, proven methods of like-minded successful people, programs, attention and take the needed time to allow yourself to develop and focus. You can reach new heights! I believe in you and me pray that you find your life’s true path and fulfill your life’s purpose.

2 Timothy 1:7 ESV

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Philippians 4:13 ESV

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.