Category: This positive life

Goal Setting Tuesday – How to choose a goal that inspires you.

The Art of Setting Goals: Crafting Your Path to Success

Setting goals is more than just jotting down a list of aspirations – it’s about creating a roadmap that guides us towards our dreams, motivates us through challenges, and ultimately leads to personal growth and achievement. Whether you’re aiming for professional success, personal development, or a healthier lifestyle, the process of setting goals is a powerful tool that propels us forward. Let’s delve into the art of setting goals and how you can harness this practice to transform your life.

1. Define Your Vision

The first step in setting meaningful goals is to clarify your vision. What do you truly want to achieve? Whether it’s advancing in your career, improving your relationships, or achieving a fitness milestone, defining your aspirations provides a clear direction and purpose.

2. Make Them SMART

SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound – are a proven framework for setting goals that are clear and actionable. Instead of setting vague goals like “get healthier,” make them specific, such as “exercise for 30 minutes five days a week,” measurable by tracking progress, achievable with realistic expectations, relevant to your overall vision, and time-bound with a deadline like “achieve this by the end of the year.”

3. Break Them Down

Large goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, manageable tasks or milestones. This not only makes the goal more achievable but also allows you to celebrate incremental successes along the way, keeping your motivation high.

4. Write Them Down

There’s power in putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Write down your goals and revisit them regularly. This not only solidifies your commitment but also serves as a constant reminder of what you’re working towards.

5. Stay Flexible and Adapt

While setting goals is important, it’s equally crucial to remain flexible and adapt as circumstances change. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes adjustments are necessary. Embrace these changes and see them as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.

6. Seek Accountability and Support

Share your goals with trusted friends, family members, or mentors who can provide encouragement and hold you accountable. Accountability partners can offer valuable insights, motivation, and support during challenging times.

7. Visualize Success

Visualization is a powerful technique used by athletes, performers, and successful individuals across various fields. Take time to visualize yourself achieving your goals – imagine the emotions, the sights, and the sounds associated with your success. This practice not only reinforces your commitment but also primes your mind for success.

8. Celebrate Your Achievements

As you make progress towards your goals, take time to celebrate your achievements. Whether it’s a small victory or a major milestone, acknowledging your successes boosts your confidence and reinforces your commitment to continuing on your journey.

9. Review and Adjust Regularly

Periodically review your goals to assess your progress. Are you on track? Are there any adjustments or refinements needed? Reflect on what’s working well and what could be improved, and adjust your goals accordingly.

10. Embrace the Journey

Lastly, remember that setting goals is not just about reaching the destination – it’s about embracing the journey. Each step you take towards your goals contributes to your personal growth and development. Enjoy the process, learn from challenges, and celebrate the victories, knowing that every effort you make brings you closer to achieving your dreams.

In conclusion, setting goals is a transformative practice that empowers us to create the life we envision. By defining your vision, making SMART goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and staying flexible and adaptive, you pave the way for success and personal fulfillment. So, dare to dream big, set your goals with intention, and embark on a journey of growth, achievement, and endless possibilities.

Tuesday blogs will be dedicated to goal-setting. We will discuss books, podcasts, and personal stories about setting goals. I hope you will join me.

Motivation Monday – What is motivation?

Unleashing the Power Within: A Journey into the Heart of Motivation

Motivation – it’s that elusive force that propels us forward, that inner drive which pushes us beyond our limits, and the beacon that illuminates our path to success. Whether we’re striving towards personal goals, professional aspirations, or simply trying to navigate the complexities of daily life, motivation is often the key ingredient that determines our level of achievement and fulfillment.

But what exactly is motivation? Is it a fleeting burst of enthusiasm, or a sustained flame that burns bright through adversity? As I delve into this topic, I find myself reflecting on both the universal and deeply personal nature of motivation.

At its core, motivation is the spark that ignites action. It’s the catalyst that transforms dreams into reality and transforms obstacles into opportunities. For some, it’s the promise of a better future or the desire to make a difference in the world. For others, it’s the pursuit of personal growth and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.

Psychologists have long studied the intricacies of motivation, exploring its various forms and the factors that influence it. From intrinsic motivations driven by personal passion and interest, to extrinsic motivations fueled by external rewards and recognition, the landscape of motivation is as diverse as the individuals who experience it.

Yet, despite its importance, motivation can be a fickle companion. We’ve all experienced moments of wavering commitment and self-doubt, where our once-clear objectives seem obscured by obstacles or distractions. During these times, nurturing and sustaining motivation becomes paramount.

So, how do we harness the power of motivation and keep it burning brightly? Here are a few strategies that can help:

1. Clarify Your Goals: Clearly defining what you want to achieve provides a roadmap for your motivation. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain momentum and track progress.

2. Find Your Why: Understanding the reasons behind your goals strengthens your motivation. Whether it’s personal fulfillment, financial security, or a desire to help others, connecting emotionally to your objectives keeps you driven.

3. Cultivate Positive Habits: Consistent habits create a supportive environment for motivation to thrive. Whether it’s a morning routine that sets a positive tone for the day or regular exercise to boost energy levels, nurturing your physical and mental well-being enhances your overall motivation.

4. Seek Inspiration: Surround yourself with sources of inspiration – whether it’s through books, podcasts, mentors, or supportive communities. Learning from others’ successes and challenges can fuel your own determination.

5. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Setbacks are an inevitable part of any journey. Instead of letting them derail your motivation, view them as valuable lessons that contribute to your growth and resilience.

6. Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate each milestone along the way. Recognizing your achievements, no matter how small, reinforces your motivation and reinforces your commitment to your goals.

Ultimately, motivation is a deeply personal and dynamic force that evolves as we grow and change. It requires self-awareness, perseverance, and a willingness to adapt to challenges. By nurturing and harnessing our motivation, we unlock our true potential and pave the way for a more fulfilling and successful life.

As I conclude this exploration into motivation, I am reminded of its transformative power – how it empowers us to overcome adversity, pursue our passions, and create meaningful change. So, whatever your aspirations may be, remember: the journey begins with a single step fueled by the unwavering belief in your ability to achieve greatness.

My Monday blogs will be about motivation – book reviews, memes, and personal stories. I hope you will join me.

July 10, 2023 – Small things

Whenever I am down or having a rough day, I try to use one of the skills I learned in therapy.

Today was a rough day but I was prepared. I purchased some pretty little cards that say “ You Rock. Thanks for making a difference “ and “You’re awesome. What you do is amazing”. The plan was to leave them anonymously to cheer people up.

Today, while walking and thinking what a rough day I was having, I spotted a woman at a desk, all alone and I just felt that I needed to give her one of the cards, since I had two in my pocket.

I walked over to her and said I was walking by and felt the need to stop and give her this … the You are Awesome card. The look on her face was something I had never seen before. She said “You have no idea how much I needed this. You see, I was just diagnosed with cancer and just started chemo.” The compulsion to walk over to her was so strong I couldn’t ignore it. We introduced ourselves. Turned out she remembered me from when I worked at the library. I told her I would pray for her and check in with her occasionally.

Something I was doing to combat my own depression turned into something so meaningful to me.

Next time you have the urge to do or say something nice to a stranger, do it. You don’t know what the people around you are going through. Be kind. Always.

May 10, 2023 – Wellness Wednesday! Mental Health Awareness Month

Photo by Madison Inouye on Pexels.com

As many of you may know, May is Mental Health Awareness month. I have always been a believer that people need to take care of their mental health as well as their physical health. In fact, poor mental health can affect your physical health. Depression and stress can cause stomach pain, back pain, headaches, and other unexplained aches and pains.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five Americans will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime. Mental health conditions are common and can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. About 1 in 25 U.S. adults lives with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression.

Making mental health a priority every day is possible in several ways. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Take Breaks – It is essential to give yourself time and space to heal mentally. Try taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness and relaxation. This will help you to regulate your emotions and reduce stress.

Photo by Leeloo Thefirst on Pexels.com

Some favorite mindfulness practices that I use every day are:

  • Breathing exercises – There are many different mindfulness breathing exercises. I like to practice 4 – 4 – 4 breathing. Breathe in to the count of four. Hold it for a count of four and then exhale to the count of four. Do this for two to five minutes and check in with yourself to see if you are less stressed after you are done. There are other breathing exercises you can check out. Just Google mindful breathing exercises.
  • Grounding – Breathe gently. Find five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. Using this technique when you are anxious will help calm you are reduce your feelings of anxiety. Here is an example – right now I see five things – my pen, my coffee cup, my keyboard, the sun in the window, and a tape dispenser. Four things I can touch – my soft sweater, my feet on the ground, the chair under me, and the air conditioning blowing on my neck. Three things I can hear – people talking in the conference room, a truck horn outside, and the phone ringing. Two things I can smell – my coffee, my perfume. One thing I can taste – the French vanilla creamer in my coffee.

Set Goals – Setting goals and working towards them is a great way to help manage mental health. Goals provide a sense of purpose and give you something to focus on when life feels overwhelming. Journaling is one method you can use to set your goals.

Exercise Regularly – Exercise is an important part of maintaining a healthy mental state. It releases endorphins, which help to improve your mood and reduce stress.

Connect with Others – Social interaction is key for mental health. Talk to friends and family, join a support group, or find an online community. Talking and connecting with others can help to establish healthy relationships and reduce feelings of loneliness. This is one area of mental health care that a lot of people struggled with during the pandemic shut down. With all of the restrictions, it was hard to gather together and share that connection.

Prioritize Self Care– Make time to do things that make you feel good. This could be listening to music, going for a walk, reading a book, or engaging in a creative activity. Being mindful of your mental health and actively taking steps to nourish it is one of the most important things you can do.

Get enough sleep – Sleep is essential for your body to repair and replenish itself. Try to ensure you get seven to nine hours of good quality sleep each night. This will help to reduce stress and fatigue and make you feel more energized and motivated.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, it is important to seek professional help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out for help. There are many mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists specialized in certain areas, such as addiction, depression, anxiety, or trauma.

When it comes to mental health, professional help can prove beneficial in a number of ways. Mental health professionals can give you insight into your own behaviors and thoughts and make connections that you may not be able to see. They can also provide you with tools and strategies to help you manage your mental health in the long run.

Seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of courage. It takes tremendous strength to own up to one’s mental health struggles and to find the help needed to handle them. Reaching out for help is a sign of self-love, as it shows that you are willing to do whatever needs to be done in order to take care of your own mental health.

I am not a mental health professional. All of this is based on my own experiences. For more information: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – https://www.cdc.gov/mental Mental Health America – https://www.mhanational.org and https://www.mhascreening.org or reach out to your health provider.

I hope you are well and thanks for reading.

March 24, 2023 – Craft therapy: Positive Potato

I saw a positive potato that someone crocheted and had to find instructions. I finally found them.

He still needs arms and his uplifting sign but here he is – Positive Potato.

What have you made lately? Was it fun? Did it lift your spirits like my potato friend did for me?

Thanks for reading.

January 19, 2023 – Craft therapy

Rough week? Find something that will feed your happiness. After a few rough days, I picked up a project I had started working on before Hurricane Ian. Crocheting is relaxing to me and keeps me from smacking people. Today I finished two of these sea turtles.

Find your bliss.

Thanks for reading!