Spirit
As much as I really don’t enjoy thinking about negative things, let alone writing about them, I realized how important this post could be for someone (or a few someones) out there. Hunkered down under my comforter at midnight, I began to ponder exactly what have been the top three hindrances to the success level I desire in any given area of my life. A little too heavy for pre-sleep, but the thoughts were pushing their way out and not taking NO for an answer.
This is what spilled out onto my nice Ralph Lauren pillow case…
5 Life-Busters To Avoid
1. Focusing on the negative of situations, events, and people- As humans, we often pick up on what’s “wrong” with something before we look at what’s ultimately good and pure about it. Why? Not sure, really. This could be a media phenomenon, one where we’ve been brain-washed to seek out drama and trauma. Try focusing on what good is in your life, as well as what you truly want to see happen in the future. Purify your motives for wanting change. For example: Don’t seek a new car because you hate your piece-of-crap sitting in the driveway. The negative emotion you get from thinking about your fugly car will only attract more of the same. Just saying…
2. Being ungrateful- This is somewhat related to #1, in the sense that being more attentive to the drabness of life than the goodness of it, tends to keep you in a constant state of want. It should be mandatory for everyone to spend at least a day in an economically underdeveloped country. Suddenly, we would all see just how grateful we should be for what we have.
3. Trying to control everything and everyone- Control freaks don’t usually know or believe they are as such. This is why it is so difficult to tell someone that he or she is trying to control you. You usually just get a blank stare or more control mechanisms thrown in your face. Personally, I realized that letting go of some things makes life SO mush easier. The fact is: no one can control every aspect of life or that of others nor should he or she try. Go ahead if you must, but beware of the bad karma coming around the bend.
You (and I) Can Recover
The only way to recover from any of the above life-malfunctions is to change. Yes, change YOU, change me, and our way of thinking and reacting to what happens in our lives. First, we must be aware of our repeat offenses. And, just because we think we’re thinking positively, doesn’t mean we are. Negative motivation and fear ambush the best of intentions and the best people. We need to check our emotions at the doorway of life. In other words, be aware of what is causing us to feel or think a certain way. Awareness will open those doors faster than anything else. And, you and I will delightfully recover from past mistakes.
Tell us one of your favorite tips for overcoming the things that trip up your success. Or ask the coach a question!
If you liked this post, you’ll love these:
The Most Important Thing In Life
Have you taken the OneWoman-OneLink Pledge yet?
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Featured Photo by Red-Dread-Head
There isn’t much anyone can say to comfort someone who is being stalked. Terror and the fear of the unknown dominate the thoughts of a woman who knows someone is there watching, waiting, and looking for an opportune time to pounce. The only real relief comes when the perpetrator is stopped by the law or other means. I’ve said all this to paint a picture of a problem that I believe is just as serious and causes similar negative actions. I’m talking about being stalked by your own self-doubt, fear, and negative beliefs. Please hear me out…
Just like that perv lurking in the bushes, self-defeating ideas and fears destroy your confidence to be yourself. They demand you to think twice about where you go, what you do, and whom you talk to. They actually gain control over you the longer they are allowed to roam free in your mind. If you don’t believe me, think about the last time you really wanted to do something worthwhile (something out of your comfort zone) but managed to talk yourself out of it. It could have been fear of rejection or poor self-esteem that won in the end, or it could have been someone else on the outside convinced you that your idea was ridiculous. Either way, you were a victim of a crime. One that should not have happened.
So, how do you get rid of the stalker?
The first thing you need to do is identify your perpetrator. What is it that trips you up every time you try to reach for your dream or move forward with self-improvement? Is it a past event or trauma? Is it fear of rejection? Is it lack of self-confidence? Or, all of the above? Once you know for sure what is getting in your way, you can begin to process it. By that I mean to think about how, when, and why this “thing” is disturbing your life. A part of that processing is journaling your thoughts and even talking about them with someone you trust.
As a life coach, I don’t usually focus on the distant past with clients but more deal with the present and future; however, in this case, there could be significant hindrances to moving forward buried in the years gone by. Only in these cases do I suggest opening the door to past events and traumas. That said, I believe 
that anyone can improve their life by focusing on the present moment and what it is she really wants to accomplish in each area of her life. I guess the point here is this: We spend time and effort to ensure our physical safety, where possible violations are concerned. I mean, you wouldn’t walk around in the worst part of town dressed in skimpy clothing, while flashing a sign that says, please attack me, I’m a good catch! So, why do we violate ourselves with what I consider a worse infraction- self-doubt. It’s one thing if outside influences affect our lives and well-being, but when we, ourselves, are the ones doing the damage, it’s unthinkable. The fact is we are paralyzing ourselves and doing it in broad daylight!
What To Do About It: Locating Yourself
Taking back control from past unserving patterns is not easy. However, it doesn’t require years of therapy, lots of money, electric shock therapy, or reading a 5oo page instruction manual. No, it’s less complicated than that. It’s really just about locating yourself and moving forward from there.
And, with that…
You put one foot in front of the other…
As much as I hate to leave you hanging here, I’m going to break this post up into two parts. In the second part, I will address further how to eliminate these sneaky stalkers in your life. Until then, be thinking about the things that repeatedly hinder your success.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
This is sort of a random post that I felt like sharing with you. As women, we have so many jobs, titles, and responsibilities that fill our days. And, sometimes, those things overtake us to the point we may not ever have the chance to BE the one person we are meant to or do the things we dream of doing. I know that being a mom, wife, boss, employee, etc. are all valid positions that make us a part of who we are; however, you have to admit, there is so much more to the makings of a beautiful woman. I want to just point out a few possibilities here with this list of “BE” statements. Would you join me in sharing your ideas? Just enter your “BE” suggestion in the comments!
Here we go!
Be Thankful…More Won’t Come Until You Appreciate What You Already Have.
Be Courageous…Everything You Want Is On The Other Side Of FEAR.
Be Funny…We All Have It In Us…
Be The Woman In Red Who Stands OUT.
Be Silly…So What If Your Kid Laughs At You.
Be Beautiful…It’s Defined By The Ability To BE Yourself.
Be Creative…It Changes Things…
Be Happy…No, Really Happy, Disney Fairytale HAPPY.
Be A Star…For Yourself.
Be The First In Line…It’s Not Overrated.
Be On Time…To Your Life.
Be A Dream Maker…Make Yours Come True.
Be Authentic…Save The Mask For The Masquerade Party.
Be What You Want To BE…Who You Want To BE…Where You Want To BE.
Be The One Who Believes The Best In People.
Gallery Photo Credit
OK, now it’s your turn, beautiful ladies! Make those comments shine!
To my personal dismay, I have never been a person who sleeps well most of the time. Because of this fact, I have suffered in many ways, including the implementation of creative endeavors. Though I do manage to work through most creative projects…eventually, I know and understand the difference between that which flows after a good night’s sleep and the polar opposite that comes following a restless night. Here’s the deal: Our bodies heal and restore on all levels during periods of deep sleep. When we don’t reach this restorative level of rest, we are (for lack of a better terminology) robbing Peter to pay Paul. It takes energy to think, create, move, and operate body systems. Simply put, no sleep…no energy.
Though there are countless reasons we can suffer from insomnia or poor quality sleep, I’ve come to know that it has a lot to do with the mechanics of your bed (comfort level). I have only had one perfect pillow years ago and have never found a replacement for it…until now. Recently, I was introduced to a company that offers products that create a platform for quality sleep. Maggie’s Direct is an online shopping site that sells high-quality bedding and home products at stellar prices. After receiving a feather down pillow from them to expedite this review, I realized how the aged state of my old pillow had been affecting my comfort level and my sleep. My neck is extremely sensitive to improper positioning, so the new pillow definitely helped me achieve the type of comfort required to get some ZZZs. I’ve used the Maggie’s Direct pillow now for over three weeks and am more than pleased with the results. I’ve had less neck pain and have felt that “energy” I spoke of earlier.
For the point of this article, I’d like to explain how this change in my sleep pattern has helped my creativity. I reach creative peaks much more quickly than prior to using the new pillow. I’m actually remembering my dreams again (this is huge for me and how I create). It also helps that I now look forward to going to bed instead of sitting up for hours, producing low-quality ideas. This one pillow is raising my awareness of how important good sleep is for everything we do. It may sound silly if you’ve never had sleep issues, but it’s a life-saver for me. I can’t wait to try some other products from Maggie’s Direct!
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
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Do you ever sit in a inoperable slump, waiting for your foul mood to pass, or for something good to happen to change things? I have. And, while in a state of self-pity and emotional compromise, my creativity has been stifled. Yes, nil, zip, zilch…it was in those times when I tended to focus on what I didn’t want, instead of what I did. It was like a steel trap, in the sense that I struggled to escape. Well, at least for those moments. However, I learned that this doesn’t serve me, or anyone , for that matter. Awareness of focus is a prerequisite to changing it. So, there really isn’t anything that can trap us inevitably. That is if we’re willing to face it…head on!
Because creative women tend to be sensitive and empathetic, we are vulnerable to our own emotions and those of others. We somehow seem to absorb the world’s problems without even thinking about it. At least I have, and still do at times. Though this can be hindering and even paralyzing, it is also what makes us the perfect warriors for change. Injustices and traumas affect us at the deepest level, provoking a valiant effort for change…if we can get past our pity parties.
I know if we don’t find a creative outlet when in times of trouble, we suffer…immensely. Writing, journaling, painting, designing, dancing, singing, problem solving, are all creative ways in which we can disengage from problems enough to find some inkling of self-growth. Allowing yourself to find serving outlets to negative emotions is a way to process life, bringing something beautiful to the forefront. It may even help you to find a solid solution to what’s bothering you. It’s OK to allow your creative efforts to go in whatever direction they need to. Well, as long as they are legal, moral, and ethical, that is. If you need to write a dark story about a serial killer and his victims, go for it! I did. Whatever helps you to feel into the situation without causing more despair and apathy is creative therapy. You are in control of your creative journey, even if you can’t control everything that happens in your life or in the world.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Guest Post by Lindsey
Nature has made women creative creatures. Inside of each of us, there is a spark of strength and beauty that is unique to our gender. And for many of us, finding an artistic outlet is the way we make sense of our lives. Whether we paint, write, take pictures or make crafts, creativity is an integral part of the way we communicate with the world.
But keeping that spark alive can sometimes be a challenge. Obligations to work, school or our children can become a drain on time and energy, leaving us unable to devote attention to our creative activities. Sometimes, the pressure of performing can freeze us, leaving us feeling vulnerable. And it’s up to you to overcome those obstacles by identifying them and working through them. It’s hard, but it can be done.
There aren’t enough hours in the day…
Women are expected to manage work, a home life and even school without breaking a sweat—and most do with grace. But if you’re also trying to fit in time to work on your own personal projects, carving out those free hours can seem impossible. By the time you’ve ended your day your natural spark of creativity may be weary and dim.
Time management is an essential tool for any woman with multiple responsibilities, but it’s crucial if you’re hoping to continue your creative efforts. If you find yourself drained by your job, commit to doing no work at all once you get home. Not everyone has the luxury of being off the clock once they leave the office, but do what you can to find a way to set your work stress aside when you get home.
Clearing your mind and getting ready for creative activity is also important. Meditation—or even just taking ten minutes to sit quietly and breathe deeply—can help you transition from work mode to creative mode. Learning to separate your job life from your home life is a difficult skill, but it’s valuable.
Integrating your creativity into your everyday life
Education is the key to self-fulfillment, even for your personal creative pursuits. Learning more about the history and techniques of your art can give you a fuller understanding of your craft and make you a better artist. Taking classes at your local arts society or pursuing an online education can give you a fuller understanding of your chosen passion. If you’re a writer, find a writers’ circle; if you’re an artist, find an artists’ workshop. The Internet has also become fertile ground for budding artists and artists’ communities; find a message board or blog that encourages discourse and feedback.
Finally, make your personal creative passion a part of your everyday life. Be sure to communicate with your spouse about needing “me time” to work on your personal projects. If you have children, make them a part of your creative outlet: recruit them to help you with gathering materials, or give them their own arts and crafts projects to explore while you’re working. Making your creative aspirations a family affair can turn into quality time with your kids.
Taking control of your creativity will require you to make changes in your life. If you want to nurture the artistic part of yourself, make an effort to give yourself the time, space and abilities to be the best self you can be.
Lindsey loves writing about education and enjoys keeping up with trending topics. She is working to get her graduate degree at the moment! She also finds joy in being creative in many realms of her life.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
What’s Your WHY?
By Lynne Klippel
Kathleen Ragan, a stay-at-home mother, loved reading stories to her young daughters. She took them to the local library every week to pick out fresh books and made story time an important part of every day.
Kathleen began to notice a disturbing trend. All the books she was reading featured male heroes. As she began to study childhood classics by Dr. Seuss, she noticed the only female characters were negative ones – lazy mothers, gossipy women, or colorless sisters who had no dialog. She then started to study fairy tales and other popular children’s books. There were few featuring girls who were brave, intelligent, or leaders. Instead, the books featured princesses who required rescuing, were evil step mothers, and were wicked witches.
These were not the role models Kathleen wanted for her daughters. She began an exhaustive search for folktales from around the world featuring female heroines. It took several years of exhaustive research including reviewing more than 30,000 stories.
This research led to her book Fearless Girls, Wise Women, and Beloved Sisters, published in 1998. The book features 100 stories from around the world with female heroines and are ideal for reading aloud to children.
Why is this story important to you?
Writing a book is a big job. It requires an investment of time, energy, and effort. In order to finish a book, you must have a passionate reason WHY you are writing that book. That passionate Why will pull you forward and give you the energy you need to complete your book.
Kathleen was passionate about providing inspiring stories for her daughters. Her passion propelled her to do whatever it took to create her book and share it with the world.
What about you?
Use these questions to measure your passion for your current writing project:
- Do you enjoy learning about the topic of your book?
- When you have extra time, does it feel like a treat to work on your book?
- When you share your book idea with others, do you feel excited and exhilarated?
- Have you clearly identified WHY you are writing this book?
If you notice that you are not feeling passionate about your book, don’t give up right away. You have two options. You can decide to select another topic which feels more exciting. Or, you can make your current topic more enjoyable to write by adding stories, fresh research, or taking a bolder stand.
One of the quickest ways to increase your passion for your book is to have some conversations with your ideal readers. Discover their needs and determine how your book can serve them. Reconnect with your passionate heart for helping others and you’ll find you’ve come home to the real reason why you started writing your book in the first place: to serve the world with your unique message.
Share your passionate WHY here and make a public stand for your book.
Lynne Klippel is a best-selling author, publisher, and book coach who specializes in helping non-fiction authors write books that build their business and transform the world. For a f.r.e.e. assessment that will help you see your author strengths and opportunities, visit http://www.BusinessBuildingBooks.com
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
I’m always on the look out for ingenious ideas to help release creativity. One trend I’ve noticed lately involves groups of people getting together at a local bar, restaurant or designated studio to explore a specific creative medium. There is one in Indianapolis called Wine & Canvas. The participants gather for drinks and are instructed, step-by-step, on how to complete a beautiful painting. I haven’t personally experienced one of these monthly events, but I’ve talked to others who have. The results are amazing, even for those who don’t consider themselves artists. And they always say how much fun it is to relax and be creative without reserve.
These are so
me of the actual participant paintings.
Notice the great big smiles on their faces…give me some of that! And what a fabulous gift idea for just about anyone (over 21, of course). The Wine and Canvas website sells gift certificates!
I also recently read a post on one of my favorite blogs that talked about another interesting creative gathering. Instead of Wine and Canvas, it was Wine and Poetry! I could get into that scene as well.
Click here to read the complete post at 3 Shared Paths.
These brilliant business ideas have got me thinking about what other creative mediums could be coupled with wine events…
What creative fun would you like to experience in a social setting?
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Photo by: this is the life 2905
Most of you know me as a believer that everyone is “creative” in one way or another; however, be that as it may, there are some things active “creatives” do on a regular basis that set them apart. I’m talking about those who want to change the world, that is. These six habits cause those moments of inspiration that drive us to actually create without reserve and without worry, to bring beauty to our world. It’s important to understand we all have the ability to increase inspiration and creativity in our lives no matter how much, or how little, we think we create now. I’m not just talking about the arts here; I’m referring to the creative ability that is innate to us as humans. We are all born to bring life to the world, to make things work better, to believe things can be more beautiful, to create lives that reflect joy and love…now, that is creating. Read on for six life-changing habits of creative, serving people.
1. Live In the Moment: This is one of those easier-said-than- done statements most don’t really ever truly get. Honestly, it’s hard. We naturally worry about the future, dwell on the past, and even stumble in our present. But when you get this principle of embracing the moment you are in and the feelings that come with it, it’s like a huge weight is lifted from your shoulders. Really. I won’t say I’ve mastered it completely myself, but I’ve learned to more effectively cherish the seconds and minutes that can mean the difference between joy and sorrow or faith and fear.
2. Keep A Childlike Heart: Seeing the world through the eyes of a child is one of the most fulfilling things we can do. They generally walk in love, wonder, freedom of speech and creative expression. They see the world as a playground ready to be experienced. When was the last time you felt that way?
3. Encourage Others: Creatives see potential in everything and everyone. They find something to love about all that is…even if others don’t. And, they don’t hesitate to bring a slice of joy and hope to those who are lucky enough to cross their path. Keep in mind this habit is one that incorporates having a good heart and a serving attitude. Without these character traits, a creative person could become dark and destructive, which is also a form of creative expression.
4. Open Minded: Again, everything has potential, so why criticize that which you’ve never tried or experienced. Creatives welcome new adventures and crazy ideas (their own and those of others). They actually might try anything once.
5. Believe In Spiritual Inspiration: The three parts of our being, Body, Mind, and Spirit, all make up a complete package that gets the job of “life” done. To what degree we pay attention to each part varies from person to person. I do know if even one of the three gets ignored, or deprived of nurturing, the whole being suffers. So, spirituality is an important part of creativity, of life itself.
6. Get Over Themselves: Well, this one is a little more complicated. When you are amazingly creative, it’s easy to get puffed up or self-centered. It’s all that attention you’re getting. But, here’s the thing, if you want to create a better world, you have to shift the focus to something else besides yourself. If only everyone could do this one…
How do you creatively “change the world”? Please do tell…
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
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Creating the life you desire is in itself a true miracle. Understand, I don’t say this lightly. It’s not that obtaining real, lasting happiness is as sparsely experienced as we think miracles are these days. On the contrary, it’s time to start thinking about what miracles really are and how often we dismiss the possibility of seeing them in our own lives. As we produce from an authentic place within us, we are allowing ourselves to walk on a miraculous path that has been there all along but may have been covered by all the things we think we have to be and do. God does not interfere with this unfortunate “masking” of our creative souls. Instead, through spiritual and physical promptings, we see the error and hopefully discover how to change, how to walk on the path.
The truth about “why” this occurs is pretty simple: we are egotistical beings who need to feel accepted and loved by others. Unfortunately, this way of living does not serve our higher selves or the universe. We become people who change ourselves just to please the world. And we don’t shine as the beautiful, creative individuals we were meant to be. Regardless of who you “think” you are, you are here to create an authentic life filled with joy and blessings to be shared with others.
Ask yourself the following questions: When was the last time you did something just because it made YOU happy or feel fulfilled? Do you often do or say things because you want to be accepted by others? Do you change your creative endeavors (tone them down or edit them) out of fear of rejection? If you answered “yes” to any of these, you may want to do some further introspection about your ego and true place in the world. I’ve had to work hard to change my thinking in this area. It’s not easy to make lasting changes, but it’s more than possible if you just stick to your guns and be honest with yourself.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
There are so many cliches flying around where creativity and mental ability are concerned. For example: “Practice makes perfect,” or “If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it,” or “Just do it,” or “Invention is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.” Well, though all of these sayings have there place and a sense of truth all their own, sometimes we just need someone to tell us what to do to makes something better. I’m going to share some tips that I use to keep my mind and spirit sharp, so when I want to be creative, I am on point.
“The big myth is that the right side of the brain is somehow a creativity bull’s-eye. That’s not the case, and doesn’t have anything to do with handedness. You need resources from both sides of your brain to be creative. All people use both sides of the brain.” —David Wolman
Mind Sharpeners
- Do Crossword Puzzles - Yes, I’m a crossword junkie. I watched my grandmother and mother work them all the time when I was a child. I figure I could be addicted to far worse things. It’s not like I spend hours filling in those boxes…just about 20 minutes a day is all I need. The more I do them, the faster I get and the tighter my memory becomes. Any activity that engages mind, memory, language, and your hands helps to keep both sides of your brain active and sharp. To help activate your right brain even more, use color pencils and decorate your puzzle when it’s complete.
- Purposely take in the details of your surroundings as much as you can - Colors, the details of the faces, clothing, and mannerisms of those around you, the smells, the lighting, the sounds. Is there music, people talking, dogs barking, a baby crying? Then, when you leave that place, try to recall as many details as you can, even write them down or sketch the scene. This exercise is a wonderful way to increase memory and generate vivid clarity when you DO remember things.
- People watch - Yes, sit on a bench at the mall or park and just watch people. See how they are different from you, from each other or what they have in common with you. Again, as in #3, take in the details of how they look, act, smell, sound. Try to connect these experiences with an emotion. For example, if an elderly woman reminds you of your own grandmother, think of a time when you were with her and felt a strong emotion. I guarantee you will be able to recall your little time sitting in the park people watching with clarity. Connecting emotions to thoughts and experiences is a key to keeping the mind sharp and active.
Spirit Strengtheners
- Connect with your spiritual higher power as often as you can - Having an open heart to God and the universe will only increase your own ability to know love and peace in your life. However you choose to make this connection is totally up to you, however. I like to both pray and meditate, and just have simple one-on-one chats with God every day. If you don’t have a belief in a higher power, then simply allow yourself to be grateful for your life and the fact that you are here on the planet. Reach deeper within yourself with each time you take time to center. Be open for new spiritual experiences and creative ideas no matter what religion or lack there of. Above all, use this time to bring more love, clarity, and understanding into your life.
- Keep a journal of your moments with Spirit, with God, or with yourself - I’ve gleaned so much wisdom and understanding from rereading my old journal entries. Sometimes ideas and inspiration is not for that moment but for a time to come. Try different mediums for recording your thoughts. One time use language, the next draw or paint, the next record your voice or sing. The extra creative effort gives you a connection between your spirit and creative expression. This usually brings a strong sense of joy and peace, again, the emotions play a key role in engaging the mind/spirit teamwork that takes us beyond where we thought we could go creatively.
- Listen to music - This is one of my favorite things to do in the whole world. I think I would die if I couldn’t soak in the beautiful melodies so many have created. I like a wide variety of music genres, but my favorites are jazz/blues and acoustic guitar and piano ballads. I listen deeply to the lyrics, the chords, the details that you could miss if you don’t quiet your mind and your surroundings. I try to predict where the melody is going if I’ve never heard the song before. This is really a mathematical exercise since music is really based on a math scale. There are only so many logical places that a song can go within a certain key. Your mind will make the the most logical choice if you allow it to lead. I do realize that the ability to do this may be a gift and not everyone can do it, but you might give it a try anyway. Just pay attention in a deeper way next time you listen to music.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
I heard a saying once that really resonated with my personal experience as a creative person, it says: “If you want to master something, teach it.” There are many reasons why this profound truth adds value to your life. The first being that when you focus on the integral parts of any creative endeavor, as you do when you show someone how to do something, you are building a stronger foundation for yourself. Sometimes when we get self-involved in our art, writing, gardening, photography, we tend to stray away from the basics and the inspiration that got us started in the first place. Sadly, this waning of creative energy causes us to lose confidence and even neglect our gifts altogether. So the natural results of bringing a student or mentee to your side is incredibly motivating and keeps you on your creative toes.
Secondly, there is a natural flow of energy when we devote some of our time to bring value to someone else’s life, especially to youth. Give and you will receive. When we understand it is our responsibility to pass on skill and knowledge to the next generation, we open ourselves up to blessings not present otherwise. Understand this doesn’t mean we have to “give” everything away for free. Though sowing free gifts into the life of another is rewarding and seems to always return abundance to us in some way. The point being: Understand your worth as a creative person, realizing that your deserve to be paid for you gift, whether you are an artist or marketing whiz. Find a balance between giving away advice and gifts and charging for your time and products. Remember that bringing value to lives is the goal I’m talking about here, not getting rich. However, if you or I happen to accumulate wealth from our creative efforts, so be it!
One last idea about mentoring: The teacher learns from the student. I’ve had the opportunity to coach some amazing women and mentor countless of teens and creatives. I realized along the way that each one of those beautiful souls has one-of-a-kind ideas and visions for their futures. I was blessed to be able to share in the amazing growth of each one. They all taught me valuable lessons and gave me renewed faith in my abilities. Inspiration doesn’t get much better than that.
I challenge each of you to find someone to mentor creatively. Even if your student is your own child, you will begin to develop fresh ideas and be renewed in your passion and purpose as a creative woman. What is the most fulfilling thing that happened to you as a mentor or mentee? Please share your thoughts with us…
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
If you liked this post, you’ll love these:
I was turned onto this AMAZING video from a friend on Facebook. I couldn’t believe what I watched was real…but it is! This is a prime example of what can happen when we think outside the box and get out of our ordinary minds. Things don’t have to be like anything else. That’s what creativity is all about…right? Please pass this link to anyone you think would enjoy the superior dancing and stellar, creative choreography. I give it a thumbs up! If you come across an amazing video, piece of art (any medium), or literary work, please send it to me. I love featuring the creative accomplishments of others. And don’t forget to sign up for our exclusive email community. The sign up form is to your right on the Homepage. Thanks.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
In my own pursuit of creative goals, I’ve realized (sometimes the hard way) that things don’t always go the way you hope them to. However, it isn’t necessary to understand the “whys” and “hows” of every vision or effort before stepping into a process of getting them done. I do believe that focus and determination rule in the creative arena, though. You have to keep going toward your dreams…no matter what gets in your way. This week I’m being greatly challenged in my physical body to even get anything typed out or on paper. But, you know what? I’m doing it anyway. Because I love what I do and I can’t hold in my thoughts because my body doesn’t want to cooperate.
I’m afraid that so many people suffer more from squelched creative dreams than they do from the ailments that keep them from realizing those dreams. It hurts to see yourself as unproductive and even limited by illness, lack, shyness, or whatever may be holding you back. In my case, it’s pain, and now, a possible diagnosis of MS that I did not see coming. That’s OK, I’m kicking it in the gut! At least I might get this one post out. Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m here for you gals. I’m not going anywhere. If you are a client, don’t think you are bothering me. You’re not. I need to be productive right now as I fight my own physical battles. My dear readers, please comment more often…give me some feedback on how I can serve you more efficiently and with greater value.
Keep Creating Tips:
- Don’t focus on what you don’t want
- Focus on what you DO want
- Celebrate you accomplishments
- Ask for help when you need it
- Give yourself the opportunity to adapt to life-change
- You are worth any effort it takes to push through challenges
- Take baby steps to reach your goals…you’ll make it
Press on to your dreams and creative masterpieces. The world needs what you have to give! I love you all.
Peace,
Kellie
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
IntrospectiveSunday
Sorry about the lateness of my post…it’s already Monday in some parts of the world. Anyway, I’d like to share a piece of prose that was an exercise from our exclusive email community. That’s why you didn’t see it on Women’s Creative Life Link. So, if you haven’t already signed up for our newsletter, please do today so you don’t miss the next issue. The form is on the right of the Home Page. The exercise was to creatively express your femininity. And because writing is my main form of self-expression, I chose to share the following.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Soaring Feminine Spirit
By Kellie R. Stone
Soaring on the wind of endless energy, I drink in the view from far above the Earth. A soup of formless blue calms and energizes me at the same time. I am a spirit not misplaced but exactly where I should be. My thoughts – healing and joy for a planet that desperately needs hope. What can I do? What can I say that will make a difference to the millions who are in blackness? Light is in my breath, my beating heart…I am a mother, a woman, a healer. Joy strikes because I believe in myself, the truth for a feminine spirit. No walls hold back my love and compassion. No ceiling keeps me from flying upward to happiness. Making choices as a feminine spirit and nothing less. I caress the outcome of my journey with thoughtful hope. I am hope. Nothing moves my firm, but comforting, edges. I share with ease that which floods my soul. The spell will never be broken. I am feminine spirit…a healer, a messenger.
What makes you feminine?
How are you changing the world with your femininity?
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