Tag Archives: Life Change

Should I Take My Dreams Seriously?

Photo by Foxtrot 44

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The Night Messenger: Are You Listening?

 

You wake up in a sweat, terrified by the images from a reoccurring nightmare. The question “what the hell does that mean?” haunts you until eventually the dream and details slip through the cracks of your subconscious mind.  I’ve lived this scenario far too many times to count and definitely too many to talk about here.  The interesting thing about dreams and our psyche is there are no flukes or mistakes.  Our minds process that which needs to come to the forefront.  Often we ignore conscious signs of this process, so the subconscious has no choice but to take over the project…so to speak.

 

I’m not saying every dream has a deep spiritual, life-changing meaning; however, reoccurring symbols, people, objects, and places could be messages worth paying attention to. The reason I’m even talking about this is to help you understand that your human experience, your entire life is a well-oiled machine that moves from one second to the next with drive and purpose even if you’re not aware of it.  That’s why it’s important to listen to your inner voice, to your dreams, to every pivotal idea.  I’ve discovered so much about myself through this type of self-communication.

 

Though dreams can be a powerful way to recognize inner stress and cumulative issues, the body has other significant ways to speak to us; such as, physical pain and conditions, tears, joy, intuitive knowledge, sense of well-being or the opposite sense that something is wrong. How often have you ignored the above signs of communication from your authentic self?  Don’t worry; we all miss them and even purposely dismiss them on occasion depending on the message.  Remember, we don’t do anything or stop doing something unless there is a payoff.  Ignoring the soul’s cry for help may be a coping mechanism to detour severe pain or fear.  Unfortunately, this practice usually prolongs stress and prevents true change and personal growth.

 

Watch the following video for tips on remembering your dreams. They really do help!

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!


 

***This post is an excerpt from Kellie Stone’s book, “The Butterfly Payoff“. Stay connected for upcoming information about obtaining a copy of this gold nugget-filled work!

Meet Wellness Leader Susan Cabana

Our featured Beautiful Woman is someone whom I’ve never met in person but felt an immediate connection to when I read her story in a recent edition of Whole Living Magazine. Susan Cabana discovered how strong she could be as a woman, a mother, and a businessperson after the sudden death of her husband. Susan rose above her tragic circumstances to a place where she thrives in her diverse roles as a truly Beautiful Woman.  Read on to hear what Susan has to say.  Show her your support by commenting below or visiting her website, Nourishyoursoul.com.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

WLL - Who is Susan Cabana?

 

Susan - I am strong, loving and passionate.  I am grateful for where I am in my life, for my girls and the gift of a new baby coming.  I recovered form the loss of my husband and my job of 18 years to find a new love of life and mission. I found my way back to a healthy and balanced lifestyle. I found joy and meaning in my life once again.

WLL - What is your present focus (personal and business)?

 

Susan - My focus is being present and connected with my children and with my pregnancy.   I focus each day on staying healthy and centered.    Running my business nourish your soul where I guide people to believe in themselves and give them the tools to create a healthier, happier life.  I also teach yoga and feel grateful to guide others on their path.  I am writing a book on my personal journey with the hopes to inspire others who are going through small or big changes to break open and grow.

WLL - How do you deal with the stress of raising a family and owning a business?

 

Susan -I know this can be a challenge for many women.  It is moment by moment, breath by breath.  I eat healthy and juice which gives me clarity and energy.  My yoga practice balances me and continues to teach me to breathe in every moment!

WLL - What is your favorite “feel good” treat you give yourself often?

 

Susan - Time for me.  When I nurture myself, I am a better mother and can give more to my clients, friends and family.

WLL - What or who inspires you to reach your goals?

 

Susan – My three girls.  They give me strength and help me appreciate the little things in life.  They teach me to slow down and be present.  I also view everyone I interact with as my teacher.  I have so many who have made a tremendous impact on my life.  I have learned from them and have grown from shared experiences.

WLL - What do you believe is the number one reason women don’t reach their potential?

 

Susan - Fear.   I love this quote “And the time came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.  -Anai Nin

WLL - Tell us your best beauty tip.

 

Susan – We are what we eat.  Eating healthy has a tremendous impact on how you look and feel.

WLL - Tell us your best wellness tip.

 

Susan - Cutting out processed foods and adding more whole foods to ones diet,finding ways to move your body, loving oneself and having healthy relationships.

WLL - What is one piece of advice your mom gave you as a child or teen that you still adhere to today?

 

Susan - My mom taught my sisters and I strong values, the importance of a strong work ethic and believing in ourselves.

WLL - Do you have any regrets?

 

Susan – I have no regrets.  I can honestly say that everything that has happened in my life has taught me something even when it has brought me to my knees.  I believe we all have the ability to grow and blossom through challenges and change if we are open.

How to Keep Going When Life Get’s Hard

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IntrospectiveSunday

Don’t Take “No” for an Answer

 

Do you go through emotional cycles that take you from elation to the depths of despair in short periods of time? Do you wonder why you can’t seem to keep things even-keeled and running smoothly?  Do you wish you weren’t constantly moved by your circumstances whether good or bad?

 

Well, I can say that I’ve experienced all of the above…even some recently.

 

Most of this way of thinking comes from the core beliefs we have about ourselves, our place in the world, and our relationship to others. What we see and think we know about who we are can provoke the scariest roller coaster ride ever!  One that getting off of is not easy…but doable with some practice.

 

Have you ever been to a professional, like a doctor or lawyer and asked for advice? I’m sure you have.  When we seek out others for answers, we usually accept what we get as the “truth” or at least reasonable and worthy of our time and money.  Right?  We don’t waste any time picking up that prescription or getting that test done.  We act immediately on what we “believe” is in our best interest.

 

But for some reason when it comes to trusting ourselves, our intuitions and self-knowing, we cringe or find every way to avoid what we hear, what we know, what we should be acting upon. Well, maybe not all the time but definitely enough that it keeps us from reaching most of our goals and dreams.  One thing I realized about myself was that I tend to say “no” to myself by avoiding the important steps.  The “no” is expressed in many different ways; it can be procrastination, avoidance, self-sabotage, anger, illness, depression, and my favorite: excuses!

 

Sound familiar to anyone?

 

That’s what I thought.

 

“Believe in love. Believe in magic. Hell, believe in Santa Clause. Believe in others. Believe in yourself. Believe in your dreams. If you don’t, who will?” ˜Bon Jovi

 

 

So now the only thing to do is stop saying “no” to yourself and start saying YES! This is pure grit; it’s the nose-to-the-grindstone event that changes everything about your life; it’s the decision to make something different happen; it’s you and me being who we are supposed to be…

 

I do this exercise to reinforce my “YES”:

 

Visualize yourself opening all kinds of doors, each one leading to a different place or opportunity. See and hear yourself gleaning from these places; feel yourself enjoying the benefits of your opportunities.  Most importantly, know that you have the right to say “YES” to any of them or all of them!  This is the key to changing those ugly core beliefs.  We all have places to go and people to meet; we have purpose and gifts that need to be utilized.  There’s only one way to do that: walk through those doors and just say yes…

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

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It’s Your Life Whether You Like it or Not!

Is There a Void In My Life?

A Woman’s Power to Change Things

Photo by Foxtrot44

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“If you don’t like something, change it; if you can’t change it, change the way you think about it.” ~Mary Engelbreit

 

As women, we naturally guide the heart-center and atmosphere of our homes. We feel more; we believe more; and we certainly create enthusiasm when we need to.  And, unfortunately, we can also tear down every thing we’ve worked for with that same power when it’s influenced by negative emotions that don’t serve us.  If you despair over circumstances or a difficult situation to the point of emotional compromise, your family feels it.  They follow you whether you want them to or not.

 

More so now than ever before women need to stand up and take control of their emotions, their behavior, and start bringing joy and peace back to the home. It starts with you, with me, with us all.  I coach women every week and see how feelings of defeat and self-doubt render them helpless.  I’m telling you what I tell them.  The buck stops here.  Own it.  No matter how bad things seem to be, they will change.  Now how they change is up to you and me.  What will you focus on?  Will you be brave enough to believe in your dreams?  Will you work on bettering yourself so others can benefit from the manifestation of your dreams?

 

There’s no greater feeling than knowing you affected someone’s life because you changed something about yourself.  This is the kind of power we have, Ladies.  No one blocks us from seeing every desire and purpose unfold before our eyes.  It’s all there ready to be gotten.  I am amazed and so very grateful each time my dreams show up.  They aren’t all monumental, but they are important to me.  It builds my faith, the tower to my “dream cloud”.  Even writing this book was a manifestation of a goal, a vision I had for a long time.  We don’t always know how long things will take to change or to manifest.  With all my heart, I believe this is by design.  Truly, if we knew all things in advance, we would not be able to carry the load; we would likely have some sort of emotional break down.  Knowledge is given with the acceptance of responsibility and when all three parts of our being can handle it.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

***This post is an excerpt from Kellie Stone’s book, “The Butterfly Payoff“. Stay connected for upcoming information about obtaining a copy of this gold nugget-filled work!

Cubic-Zirconia Mentally in a Diamond World

 

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“Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without.” ˜Chinese Proverb

 

 

When a woman wears a real diamond, she markedly changes her posture, her confidence, and the way she carries herself; an interesting observation that deserves a couple of laps around our brains…you know, for the sake of understanding something about ourselves.  Why do you think a stone can make such a difference in our perceived self-worth and attitude?  Besides the fact that it’s all pretty, sparkly and reminds you of playing with Barbie as a child. (Yes, that bitch does have everything!)

 

OK, now for the real reasons. One is psychological and the other is scientific. #1- Wearing something valuable does not make us valuable. Truth is; we feel better about ourselves when we touch or possess something valuable or authentic.  Put a glass rock on the same gal, and tell her it’s glass, she won’t experience the same euphoria as she does with the genuine diamond. (That last statement, a no brainer but not this next one.)

 

#2 – All things in the universe have unique vibrations or frequencies. (Didn’t I tell you it was scientific?)  Diamonds happen to be one of those substances that live at the higher end of the vibration scale, as do most “real” gemstones and precious metals.  Our energy resonates with the energy of authentic matter from nature and it in turn resonates with ours.  Hmmm…where do you think I’m going with this?  Yes, that’s right (you deserve a gold star); I’m talking about our state of being.  Are you acting like diamonds and vibrating with your authentic frequency (all shiny and sparkly) or are you faded, lackluster, like a simply cut piece of glass?

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

***This post is an excerpt from Kellie Stone’s book, “The Butterfly Payoff“. Stay connected for upcoming information about obtaining a copy of this gold nugget-filled work!

 

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One White Duck


How to Stop Procrastinating

Photo by Insanityisthefuture

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Hi Everyone!  Today is a good day!  Why? I actually got some Holiday shopping done!  Understand the norm for me is rushing from store-to-store on Christmas eve searching for last minute items.  Talk about procrastination…

 

I don’t know why I do it every year and, of course, I always tell myself I won’t ever do it again just to end up in the same predicament on December 24th. Well, not this year!  I realized that I needed an easy, fast way to shop early, so I turned to one of my new favorite online shopping sites called CSN Stores.  Using a promo code I already had, I was able to purchase a few items for my children….early!  I did, however, have a little trouble deciding to shop for the kids as opposed to treating myself with a new espresso machine, really cute shoes or cookware that I desperately need.  OK, so I don’t really NEED the “really cute shoes”…oh, wait; yes I do!  Because the site is so diverse with over 200 stores that carry anything from this beautiful platform bed -to home decor- to pet supplies, you can understand my temptation.  Needless to say, I went with the Christmas shopping for my babes.  I now have a sense of accomplishment and an overwhelming sense that I learned a valuable life-lesson about procrastination.

 

So, bottom line here, ladies, just get it done! Whatever you keep putting off;whatever gets you in a rut; whatever makes you cringe to think about; do it NOW!  I did!  And I feel so good about myself.  Oh, and just in case you want to know more about CSN, I will be doing a full blown review on their products, customer service, and shipping here soon after I receive my order.  I will say this: my experience with them thus far has been fabulous!

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

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Procrastination: The One Thing You Can’t Seem to Get Done

 

A Little Passion Goes a Long Way

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Passion – a word that has so much energy and promise. It brings lovers together; it wins wars; it creates fine art and literature; it makes money; and it works miracles.  Those who find it have the potential to do all of the above and more.  What are you constantly drawn to do that gives you that feeling of accomplishment and joy?  Though this may have nothing to do with your purpose, it’s likely that it can give you a clue – a direction in which to start seeking.

 

“Passion is contagious, and when you have the courage to share your passion for life with those around you, it can inspire others to find the path to their dreams!” ~Michele DeVille

 

Keep in mind, though, there are passions that serve you and others well – and those that don’t. Just as the honorable, passionate woman brings beauty and love to the table, her counterpart, the naughty, greedy (equally passionate) gal can ruin lives faster than you can say Desperate Housewives.  Is Your Passion Honorable?  In a perfect world, I could give you a perfect answer, but we all know that is not going to happen anytime soon.  So, instead, I will give you the best one I know: it depends on what you believe is honorable.  And in that perfect world we would all understand the legitimacy of honor.  It is simple and really does fit in a nutshell: Love.  If what you desire is driven by love for someone or something else other than self, it’s honorable.

 

Acting from a place of love and intuition will honor you as well as mankind.  Secondly, it will make room for you.  That means you won’t be fighting tooth and nail to express or work within your passion.  Furthermore, others notice you can’t stop talking about it with a broad, natural smile on your face.  It expands your world and makes your heart beat faster.

 

***This post is an excerpt from Kellie Stone’s book, “The Butterfly Payoff”. Stay connected for upcoming information about obtaining a copy of this gold nugget-filled work!

 

If you enjoyed this post, you will love this one: It’s Your Journey Whether You Like It or Not


It’s Your Life Whether You Like It or Not…Own It!

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Have you ever met someone who whines about everything? She never accepts responsibility for her actions; it’s always the fault of someone else.  It’s fair to say that this perpetual attitude is precisely why she is living a life of despair and frustration.  She has never realized that it’s her Journey to own and treasure.  After all, isn’t it much more fun to pass the proverbial buck on to Aunt Millie or anyone who willingly enables us to do so?  For a while, perhaps, then it gets old…excruciatingly old.

 

A remarkable woman comes to mind; her name is Helen Keller. Though everyone has at least heard of her, the story told in most text books and biographies may not make the point that I’m about to.  Helen was someone who knew how to own her circumstances and make the best of the hand she was dealt.  Where so many fail and get tripped up, she succeeded.  Why?  I believe it was her circumstance of limited senses that gave her a unique perspective about “who she was and why she was here”.

 

She had no distractions (TV, radio, eye candy, Face book, fussy kids) from the powerful emotions and drive she felt inside. Some of those emotions were dark but only because she wanted to communicate so badly.  Just think how many times we hesitate to speak out or be ourselves due to confusion or fear.  Not Miss Keller; nothing stopped her from pushing (working) through her challenges to become one of the most renowned motivational icons of the twentieth century; an inspiration to all, not just the physically-challenged, an astounding achievement if you consider her limitations.  Like Helen, I tend to believe that our “limitations” are the key to making a distinct mark on the world. It makes me believe in miracles to read about her life.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

***This post is an excerpt from Kellie’s new book, “The Butterfly Payoff: a woman’s guide to discovering purpose, fulfilling needs…And getting paid for it!”. Stay tuned for more information about this tell-all powerhouse of Kellie’s life-changing tips!


“Drive-by” Emotions

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IntrospectiveSunday

 

One of the most poisonous thoughts anyone can have is this: I can’t. Have you ever considered how many times you’ve rehearsed that statement in your mind?  You don’t even have to say the words out loud or clearly identify them consciously for them to have a negative impact on your life.  After a while the implication of not being able to do or receive something comes in the form of what I call “drive-by feelings.” Let me explain…

“Watch your thoughts, for they become words. Watch your words, for they become actions. Watch your actions, for they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become character. Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

Limitations

 

I’ve always loved beautiful things, clothing, furniture, jewelry, etc. but have lacked the income to purchase most of what I find attractive…it’s felt like a curse at times.  I would look at photos and touch the items with unfulfilled yearning time-and-time-again just to be disappointed by my mind that always initiated words and emotions of discouragement.  It was like an invisible flash card in front of me that emphatically said: You can’t have that!  Most of the time I wouldn’t even hear the words; I began to feel instant emotional let down without even thinking anything.  I knew I had to change this devastating “auto-pilot” response to the desires of my heart; otherwise, I would never have them.

Change Comes

 

One day, I opened my Internet Home Page as usual and saw an article/review for a new car created by Porsche called the Panamera. I have loved all things Porsche since I was a young teen.  The photo of the new car intrigued me, so I opened the link and even researched further on the Porsche site.  Surprisingly, I felt like a kid in a candy store with a pocket full of money!  I didn’t feel the violating “drive-by” negative emotion, nor did my mind rehearse any “I can’t” lines.  WOW!  I had a HUGE breakthrough in mental awareness.  This, my friends, is how you create your future!  It has to happen on the inside first before you see it on the outside.  I’ll let you know when I pick up my new car!`

 

Now, let me clarify something:  you don’t have to do this with $100,000.00 cars or anything luxurious for that matter. You can be much more practical if that’s your desire.  Be aware of your reactions to anything that typically has been mentally “off limits” to you; such as, overcoming chronic illness, landing a new job, a fulfilling marriage or relationship, obedient kids.  Start small and work up bigger things.

Introspection

 

This week ask yourself what things and/or events that you truly want in your life. Write down your answer in your journal.  Now, next to that list, record how you feel and what you think when you think about those things.  Is it negative, positive or indifferent?  Focus on why wanting those items and changes causes subsequent emotions whether they be pleasant or discouraging.  Remember, awareness is your first step to changing.  Also consider this is not going to change overnight.  Practice makes perfect in this case.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

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What You Think, You Become


What’s In Your Wake?

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Well, ladies (and gents), I’ve been loving my new apartment with a lake view. It has given me some true relaxing time, staring out at the reflection that somehow always looks more interesting than the real thing.  I’ve been paying attention to a group of ducks that lives by the lake.  They are out swimming, flying, and playing every day.  I’m thankful for the fact that I get on-the-spot epiphanies from nature’s performance quite often.  This week was no exception.

 

The ducks launch from the lake’s edge frequently. One day I noticed the white raised wake that follows them to their destination.  It’s point is always at their tale.  It then spreads into arrow formation that, as the duck swims, gets wider and wider.  The wake points touch both sides of the lake by the time the duck reaches the upper end (see photo for reference).  And, if the duck stops, it stops and fades away.  If the duck changes direction, it follows him…

 

My initial thought prompted a nugget: The ducks, doing what they are supposed to do, create an ever-spreading effect on the lake that is totally controlled by their movement.

 

Application:  YOU and I can live with purpose (doing what we were meant to do) and affect the world with an ever spreading message that we can control by our movements.  I thought it was cool!

 

So, today, think about what message you want to bring to the world; how you will spread it; how far you want it to reach; and whom you want to receive it.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

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One White Duck

Fortunate Friday: The Simple Things


6 Steps to a Dream Come True

IntrospectiveSunday

 

How many of are ready for your deepest desires and dreams to come true? 

Now, how many of you don’t believe it can happen for you?

 

I’m Creative Journey Coach, Kellie Stone, and I’m here to tell you that you can see your dreams manifest before your eyes. There is a saying that goes like this: You have not failed unless you stop trying.  Boy, have we all heard that one or others that tell us that we simply need to keep going, to hold vigil to our innermost dreams with each passing day; it gets a little redundant hearing the message.  Here’s the thing:  Why do so many give up, stop trying, even turn their backs on what it is they thought was SO important to them?  Quite an Introspection…

 

I’ve spent many days “pumped up” about the future, my desires, my hopes and dreams. On the contrary, there have been many that I’ve wallowed in the depths of despair due to the lack of motivation and faith to continue on the Journey to success.  You see, sometimes people whom you think have everything “together” are really struggling with many of the same things you are.  Life Coaches, Doctors, Counselors, Teachers, Ministers, and even Spiritual Gurus come to places of concern, challenge, and disappointment in the pursuit of life goals.  In fact, EVERYONE experiences this at one time or another!

 

What I’m going to tell you, anyone can do…anyone! That’s important considering too many women out there really believe that you have to posses some kind of X-Factor to get what you truly want and need.  Not so!  If you are teachable; you can accomplish anything you desire to! I’ve done these six steps and understand how they work. And, yes, doing all of them together DOES work!  My life is full of manifestations of dreams and goals.  Some I’ve had for years, and some are newborn babes.  OK, now for the keys to unlocking your dreams!

Step One:  Inception (origin: an event that is a beginning; a first part or stage of subsequent events)

 

You know how sometimes things are ugly at the beginning, ie., the pile of paint supplies before you paint; the mess of ingredients on the counter before the gourmet dinner; the wrinkled, red-faced newborn baby (still cute, but not pretty).  These examples are meant to help you see how “beginnings” are not always glorious, nor do they normally resemble the end result in any way, shape, or form.  The point is that you have start somewhere; it might as well be today, right?  The key is your intention: Are you making Lasagna or Spaghetti?  Do you want to write a book or a poem?  Clarify the what first.  And don’t worry about what it looks like.  Starting is a key to manifesting your dreams.

Step Two:  No Looking Back (Forward MARCH!)

 

You have now stepped onto a path…Your Journey. The length, breadth, and challenge level of that path is as unique as you and your dream.  As much as we all love to look back over our shoulders at what is behind us, this is not the time to do that.  Have you ever watched an Olympic track event?  Notice that the competitors don’t look around or back at who is near them.  They focus wholeheartedly on the finish line.  That is where the reward is.  If runners lose concentration for just one second, it could mean losing their position, falling, and eventually losing the race.  Sound familiar?  Forward focus is a key to manifesting your dreams.

Step Three:  Set Goals: (Goal Setting involves establishing specific, measurable and time-targeted objectives.)

 

This imperative step carries your “what” along the path with steadfast determination.  I’ve read and heard a lot about this step to success, and honestly, I think there is something that most people don’t understand: they don’t set obtainable goals.  Why aren’t they obtainable?  Because they don’t believe in their ability to obtain them.  You see, you can’t manifest anything you don’t believe…including the completion of a goal.  Setting believable goals is a key to manifesting your dreams.

Step Four: Invest Time, Emotion, and Effort Wisely:  (investment – the commitment of something other than money (time, energy, or effort) to a project with the expectation of some worthwhile result.)

 

A dream deserves your best, right?  It does if you want it to be a reality . You can’t just lay around and expect things to happen on their own (well, at least not everything).  Let me explain.  There is a thing called working smart that is WAY too often overlooked in leu of working harder.  Putting forth effort the right way and toward the right dream-enabling things will get you there far faster and with less stress than you can even imagine.  Your mind and emotions have more to do with your dreams than your toil and trouble do…really.  Keeping your mind, heart, and spirit focused on the positive outcome and how it will change your life is a key to manifesting your dreams.

Step Five: Track Your Progress (observe or plot the moving path of something).

It’s somewhat like following a map to your destination. If you don’t know how to do that, get a navigator or a Journey Coach.  Just make sure you know where you are with your goals at all times.  This is where you facilitate changes for an efficient passage to the end.  You also will see your finish line more clearly and with emotional gratitude.  Tracking your progress is a key to manifesting your dreams.

Step Six: Enjoy (derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in)

 

I highly recommend that you start step six from the beginning, carry it through the whole process, and lavish it at the finish line. You must find a way to love this path you’ve chosen or you WON’T get too far. Joy is a key to manifesting your dreams.

 

Now, if you notice, the six steps are actually an acronym for the word IN-SITE.  Inception-No looking back-Set Goals-Invest-Track-Enjoy

 

IN-SITE is also a coaching package that I will be offering soon on the new Women’s LifeLink.  I will talk more about it in the coming weeks as I’m in the depths of my own IN-SITE process for my dream.  But if you can’t wait to hear about this opportunity to make your dreams come true, email me at womenslifelink@gmail.com.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

Photo one by 6-58

Photo two by Obliwen-kenobi

Photo three by Padawan71

Photo four by ARA1985




Confidence or Vanity?

Photo by NeBulepTiK

 

Do people tell you all the time that you are confident? Does being the center of attention get you revved up for your day or week?  And one last question: Do you know the difference between being confident in yourself and being vain?  I’m not here to  answer those questions; that you have to do all on your own.  Sorry.  What I am going to tell you is my perspective on the topic and how your understanding of yourself can catapult you to new heights in your life.

Confidence: assurance: freedom from doubt; belief in yourself and your abilities

 

Since I can remember, I have been a confident girl/woman. Now let me tell you exactly what that means, at least to me.  It means that I don’t freak out when asked to speak in front of people; I don’t mind walking into a crowded room; I’m not afraid to try new things (most of the time); and it doesn’t take much persuasion for me to talk about myself to others.

 

Now, let me tell you about a time when I crossed the line into the world of vanity. It went something like this:  I would not leave the house unless I had on full make-up, hair done, every article of clothing in place, and I knew I looked good.  Nothing wrong with looking good, but it was a little extreme when it caused me to be late, miss out on opportunities, and even hinder relationships.  I also would not shut up long enough to let anyone else talk.  I couldn’t because it was all about me.  I now know how much I missed by not listening to others.

Vanity: extreme love of self : feelings of excessive pride

 

The line (the really thin one) is almost invisible to those of us who are confident. We even use the “I’m a confident woman” as an excuse for our behavior.  When every thought, action, and plan we have becomes about ourselves, it’s time to take an inventory.  I did.  Vanity is something that can capture you, wrap you up, and render you as helpless as being without confidence.  It repels people and opportunities.

What is Confidence, Really?

 

Confidence is not a trait that many are just born with. Though some seem to possess it from a very young age…the preschooler who always starts the games and activities; the first-grader who always raises her hand; the middle school girl who tries out for the cheer team “just because” and actually makes it.  You know those types, don’t you?  Usually confidence is gained over a period of time by being yourself and having positive results come from your thoughts and actions.  Others notice you for being genuinely caring and interested in them and the world around you.  Confidence.  Then you have the ones who fly quickly past confidence and go straight to vanity.  Here’s some insight into how they might act:

What is Vanity, Really?

 

The vain woman is a delicate creature who needs to have praise, attention, and be as perfect as possible at all times. They think that everything and everyone around them is focused on them; therefore, they have to obtain perfection.  The funny thing is that though perfection is the goal, the woman may be clueless to what is expected or even wanted by those around her.  For example: a businesswoman- a vain one- gets a new position at a prestigious company.  She is determined to show off her goods in beauty and in talent.  Barely passing the office door, she is already flirting with the men, making the women uncomfortable, and assuming that the boss is putting all of his or her eggs in her basket.  She has inadvertently shot herself in the foot with her inappropriate behavior.

Everything is Not About You…or Me

 

Time to get a clue, ladies and gentlemen (I know you men read WLL, too). You know who you are.  At this point in our existence and the crucial time in our history, we need to start thinking about the greater good of mankind as opposed to “what can I get out of  this?”.  Don’t get me wrong; I’m all for give and take and getting something in exchange for your hard work.  But here’s the thing:  keep in mind that there are 6 billion other people on the planet who are just as valuable as you are.  Furthermore, they are not all alive to serve you, to love you, to praise you, or to even look at you for that matter.  So, start thinking about your actions and thoughts in terms of how you can bring a little more focus on others and get it off of yourself.  Vanity is nothing more than a tool of self-destruction.

 

For the sake of creating a short book on the issues of vanity, I will end this post here. However, if this is a topic that you’d like to hear more about, leave a comment or feel free to email me directly at womenslifelink@gmail.com.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

If you enjoyed this post, you will love these:

The Courage To Be Me…The Courage To Be You

When Confidence Comes


Celebrating Henry David Thoreau!

I wanted to help a fellow blogger celebrate the birthday-anniversary of a man who has touched and inspired many around the world.  Henry David Thoreau, born July 12, 1817 in Concord, Massachusetts, was an American author, poet, abolitionist, naturalist, and life-changing philosopher.  I personally have been moved by some of his quotes over the years, even to the point of acting on his suggestions.  Henry would be proud of those who have found peace and success through reading words that he penned 150 years ago.  That is one of the reasons I love the written word so much.  When preserved, it impacts readers far longer than its authors live.  Enjoy some great reading about Thoreau at the Thumbing Through Thoreau Web site!

“Words do not lose their truth by time or misinterpretation, but stand unscathed longer than he who spoke them.” ˜Henry David Thoreau

Happy birthday, Henry David Thoreau!  Thank you for your contribution to the world.

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

10 Break-up Lessons for the Modern Woman

Photo by Syn777

 

Just to let you know, I’ve lacked in the inspiration department lately…as if you couldn’t tell.  I realized that it’s not that I don’t have anything to write about, but it’s that I have too much to write about.  Am I making any sense at all?  If not, click out, do your search, and go visit one of those “other” blogs.  I’m really done with worrying about what my readers think about my every word.  Don’t get me wrong; I love you, but the stress is not worth it.  I am who I am. Love me. Hate me.  It’s all a part of the Journey…

 

I’ve come just far enough through a break up with my husband of almost nineteen years to learn and understand some things.  Dare I share them with you?  YES!  They might help someone out there…

 

1.  Fear (not people) is controlling and always gets in the way of your dreams and goals.

 

2.  Be good to yourself.  If you don’t, know one else will.

 

3.  Be careful around addicting substances and people.  Hook, line, and sinker…that’s all I have to say about that.

 

4.  Don’t put yourself in emotionally charged situations; such as, weddings, funerals, graduations, baby showers.

 

5.  If you feel yourself sabotaging your health, wellness, dreams, get accountable…damn quick!

 

6.  Drink lots of water…I always say that!

 

7.  Don’t make important decisions when emotionally compromised ( it’s OK to choose salad dressing and stuff like that).

 

8.  Believe in your ability to make it through anything…no matter what!

 

9.  Accept responsibility for YOUR actions.  That means there may be consequences, too.

 

10.  You can never take words back…

I hope that you find everything you want out of life, that your journey is adventurous, and you make effort everyday to get closer to your authentic self.  Add your best break up tip if you dare…

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

If you loved this one, you may enjoy these Women’s Life Link classics:

What Is Your State of Mind…Really?

Take a New Picture


Take the Power

 Photo by BenHeine 

 

Hi everyone!  I’ve been taking time to work out some family stuff recently and have not posted the usual daily article.  I found a poem  by Susan Polis Schultz that really spoke to me this week and wanted to share it with you.

 

Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!

 

This life is yours

Take the power

to choose what you want to do

and do it well

Take the power

to love what you want in life

and love it honestly

Take the power

to walk in the forest

and be a part of nature

Take the power

to control your own life

No one else can do it for you

Take the power

to make your life happy