To Be, or Not To Be....

What attracts you to certain people? Most likely, you look for qualities in others that you value. They possess characteristics that inspire you and stir your soul. You admire them. You respect them. They make you think. They make you laugh.

You feel instantly connected and drawn to them, and instinctively gravitate toward their energy. When you meet these individuals, you just know. 

Now look in the mirror. What can you do today that leads you one step closer to reflecting those same traits? I'm not asking you to change who you are so that you become this other person. I am urging you to become the best version of yourself. That is my life's purpose. I want to help you find those unique pieces in others and put them together to build your dream life. It starts with an open mind and open eyes. Look for the best in others and see people's true colors. Together, we will use them to paint your masterpiece.

Wisdom from the Wizard

Let's stop looking at challenges as obstacles in our road to self discovery. Instead, try to see them as opportunities to show you just how strong you really are. 

After all, our deepest fear is of the unknown. Many of us spend sleepless nights worrying about what the future will bring or how we will overcome potential problems. However, the main reason we are so fearful is that we doubt our ability to take on that task. We don't have all the answers right this second. What if we fail? 

Usually, when we finalky do face our fears, we see how small they really were. We also see that we can handle more than we had thought. By taking action, we can take back the power we've given our fear and instead use it when addressing the next challenge. 

Yes, there is a chance you might fail. But you'll live through it. You'll learn from it. You'll readjust. If that's the worst outcome, than what are you so worried about?

Wake Up to Your Life

Are you one of the many people who wake up in the morning thinking, "It wasn't supposed to be like this?" You had a plan. You had goals. There was a vision.

But now, here you are, miles away from even a vague resemblance of that picture. You ask yourself what went wrong, curse the heavens, and decide to give up on the dream of a happy life. Others seem to have known the secret, but perhaps you just weren't meant to have what you had for so long desired.

Well, you're wrong. Firstly, just because others seem to have easily reached their goals by now does not mean they have some magic formula to do so. Furthermore, what makes you think they have reached all their goals? Perhaps they are just as envious of your life as you are of theirs. Secondly, if that dream was so precious to you, you wouldn't be so quick to give it up. If you truly do care enough about it, you will work to eventually make it happen.

There is only so much you can control though. If something is meant to be, it will occur, but perhaps not on your time schedule. Yet, instead of waiting for it, live your life working towards it. Trust that whatever your life looks like now, you are always a work in progress. Enjoy each moment you are given for what it is, and let go of expectations of what it should be. You might just wake up one day and realize that what you do have is better than anything you could have imagined.

Love the One You're With

How do you know you've met "the one?"

You already know and love yourself as a person. They don't complete you, but they compliment you. They inspire and support you to strive for more, and make you grateful for what you have. You feel as safe in their presence as you do with their absence. They see the best and the worst in you. They love you none the same. 

Have HOPE

I am so thankful for my life. Every day, I thank the Lord for the numerous gifts He has given me (of which I am acutely aware I have not earned on my own merit.) I am continually looking for the silver lining, seeing my cup as half full, and generally seeking the positives in each situation. Even during the worst of times, I have understood that there is always someone struggling more than I am. 

Yet, I am no Pollyanna. There are days and times when I, too, find myself feeling neglected and unloved. When, in the midst of my pain, I see no way out, no end in sight, and certainly no light at the end of my tunnel. 

This morning, however, I was reminded that I must be grateful for all that comes my way. I need to be as equally quick to give thanks for my pain as I am for my pleasure. 

Life is never stagnant. From moment to moment, this world is evolving and transforming before us. Just as great experiences must end, so, too, must our battles. However, both shape who we become. Both are essential pieces of our journey. Both are chances to grow and learn.

Instead of wallowing in your distress, acknowledge your feelings in that moment and be mindful of the purpose behind its existence. Remind yourself that it won't last forever and that you are strong enough to get through it. 

Weekend Whimsy

What is holding you back from pursuing greatness? Whether it's your own self-doubts or the judgment of others, you can usually find an excuse to limit your ambitions. 

In fact, there might be a million reasons you will fail at accomplishing your goal. The more lofty it is, the farther it may seem. Others might mock you, shame you, and attempt to crush your aspirations.

Don't pay them a shred of attention. I encourage you to dream impossibly. See through obstacles. Live beyond your years. Reach past the horizon. 

The only bonds that tie tie you down are ones that you allow. Today, let your passion be your guide. Draw a life that is outside the lines with colors that don't yet exist. 

Friday Advice

Why do we spend so much time worrying about the past? Some of us waste our days mired in regret and resentment, with our vision focused firmly behind us rather than ahead. Those people rarely are able to move forward on their path. Therefore, instead of growing and reaching their goals, they become overcome with problems and negativity that they no longer can do anything about anyway.

We can all identify with the need to feel in control. Unfortunately, much of what happens in life is out of our hands. You can plan for a sunny day at the beach, but if rain is looming, there's nothing you can do to stop it. 

That's actually the good news! You aren't responsible for every single thing that happens. You are, however, in charge of how you react to the situation. Once you understand this, you can focus on what really matters and be present in your own life. Value your time here. Spend it wisely. Continue forward on your journey, celebrating each moment you are given.