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Tell Your Story

Everyone has a story. Within each are identifiable life experiences connecting us all;Designed to teach encourage and inspire not only the individual but another too. What’s Your Story?

posted by Al Bell December 8, 2018

Welcome to the “Tell Your Story” highlight reel.

If you haven’t guessed it as yet, everyone has a story. Within each is identifiable life experiences, anyone can glean from if open to receive.

This is a Highlight Reel of another’s life journey designed to inspire. Have a coffee/tea and read on as Lars and Michelle share their story.

Firstly, thanks to Al for asking us to ‘Tell our Story’ on this inspiring series.

We are Michelle and Lars of lifejourney4two.com and are on an adventure of a lifetime.

Our story? We met just over three years ago, both having been married before, and both surprised that we fell for each other so quickly.

Lars had been single longer than me, I was only a year out from my divorce, and I was much warier about rushing things. My heart was telling me one thing and my head another. Anyway, I finally told my head to hush, and just went the flow.

We moved in together, and one afternoon we sat down to map out our hopes and dreams.

The majority of these were all the places we wanted to travel to in the future. Call it an epiphany moment, a stroke of madness or a bloody great decision, but we looked at each other – through those rose-tinted glasses – and said, “Why wait?”

My boys were starting to do their own thing, one already across the other side of the country working in radio and the other two both going to do university stints overseas. So, there were no ties to keep us in Perth, Western Australia.

And that was it!

We saved like crazy for a year, gradually sold all our worldly possessions on Gumtree, ended our rental lease, resigned from our full-time jobs, (Lars worked in the off-shore safety arena and I was a teacher), and off we jolly well went!

We’ve now been on the road for over 18 months, and we’ve visited 29 countries. We spent a year in a camper van traveling through Europe, then bought a car and spent 4 months exploring the spectacular scenery in Norway. We are now house-sitting a Chateau in the quintessential French countryside.

Why did you start blogging?

Our blog organically came into being about six months after we had begun our trip and morphed into this all-encompassing “lifejourney” theme.

I was keeping a travel journal and then thought about writing it online, just for us, and then that kind of morphed into the blog idea.

At the same time, we were having a big problem with ‘gas’. Well for starters, being in each other’s company 24 hours a day you have to get used to those types of problems – generally, a good sense of humor helps with that – but we had more pressing gas problems.

Driving a German motorhome through Europe, we found it very difficult finding places to top up our motorhome’s German gas bottle. We hadn’t been able to find any information on google. That was the first time, the idea that we had valuable information that others could use, came into our minds and we joked about setting up a blog. That initial thought, spark if you like, grew and we started to think seriously about the idea.

We realized we had a lot to share and wanted our posts to inspire and help others on their ‘lifejourney’, both on their physical travels and their journey on this complicated, but joyous thing, we call ‘life’.

Life itself can be a tough journey; by sharing our experiences and thoughts we hope that we can help others along in their journey. Additionally, we hope to inspire and motivate others to ‘satisfy their soul’. To do whatever it is that makes them content and to make sure they are doing things they sooner rather than later. Not just ‘one day’.

What hurdles (mental or physical) did you have to overcome to get your blog started and continue on today?

We initially felt like we were swimming in treacle. ‘Set up a blog in 30 minutes’, all the articles promise, luring you in like it’s such a smooth ride. Well, let’s swap the words ‘30 minutes’ for ‘many months’ and you have a realistic timeframe. We weren’t expecting it to be such a huge learning curve, but it’s certainly fabulous exercise for the aging brain cells.

Mentally, I had a little bit of work to do on sharing my thoughts and ideas in our ‘Lifejourney’ section, but after I wrote a really personal piece about my childhood, I feel I have managed that hurdle and now just write from the heart.

As well as the time it took us to get a handle on just setting up our blog site and to learn what those ever-present SEO letters stood for, we also hadn’t factored in the importance of social media.

Social media takes a good chunk of time, particularly maintaining a presence and making sure that you engage meaningfully with both your followers and new potential followers.

We started out trying to write our blog posts together. However, we soon realized that was definitely not going to work for us! We have different writing styles and ideas, so now we are happy to edit and give constructive criticism on each other’s posts 😉

Lars is much more focused on the photography side of things now and me more on the writing. We still have so much to learn and to improve on. We recently decided to get Photoshop and Lightroom, so again steep learning curves there.

What advice would you share with someone who wants to start blogging?

Follow your passion and just do it. We would recommend taking the time to set up your blog carefully before you start. Have a few posts ready to go and start building a social media presence.

Starting a blog reminded me of having my first baby.

There are so many articles, people, books, blog post (blog posts hadn’t been invented when I had my children – or internet come to think of it, but that’s beside the point) out there telling you what you should and shouldn’t do that it can become overwhelming. They say, ‘Leave the baby to cry. No, pick the baby up, don’t leave him to cry’.

So many well-meaning people, but so many conflicting ideas. It’s the same with blogging. It’s a balance, between doing your research so that you are prepared and also listening to your own heart and making sure you are doing what you feel passionate about.

You are a unique individual. Trust your instincts, believe in yourself and go for it.

Don’t wait for that ‘One day’.

Blog URL https://lifejourney4two.com

Twitter https://twitter.com/lifejourney4two

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lifejourney4two/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lifejourney4two

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.ch/lifejourney4two

The Resilient Woman Series

Courage Tenacity Persistence

Posted first by Al Bell November 25, 2018

Welcome back! I hope you find this site enlightening and refreshing as the title implies. If you are here, you’re in for a treat.

I would like to introduce you to the Resilient Woman series. The guests have been absolutely fabulous. To catch up on why the series was even started, click this.

This weeks guest can be described in a word…courageous! Although battling introvert tendencies and daring to speak openly concerning culture, this never stopped her from the goal of sharing and informing the World. Meet Anna, my friend.

TWH- Hi Anna! Hope all is well. Can you share a bit about yourself and your mission?

Hello, I’m Anna! I’m from the Midwest, married, and a mom to 2 amazing children with the biggest hearts in the world. I’m also a true introvert, but learning to break that shell little by little, hence the very recent re-brand of the blog to what it is now. I share my journey of building this through my blog.

I write about Autism parenting, the good and the bad. I am Hmong, which is an ethnic group of SE Asia and I write about culture, the good and the bad. My blogs are personal views and may hit “touchy” subjects that the (Hmong) community doesn’t talk about. Each category or topic coincides with each other. Yes, in the beginning, I used an undercover name to protect the people I care about so I never had a profile attached to it.

I just want to end this with a huge “Thank You” to Al for even considering me to do this, I’m truly grateful. It was totally unexpected!

TWH– No problem whatsoever! Really appreciative of you willing to share your experience.

So Anna…

TWH-What is your definition of a strong woman?

A woman who can hold her ground, one who practices what she preaches, and comes back stronger every time she has reached failure. This woman is self-aware and has high emotional intelligence. She breaks the status-quo.

TWH-A Resilient Woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

There so many, but here’s the top three on my list.

Self-Awareness – having high emotional intelligence; knowing what she needs, what she doesn’t, and when it’s time to ask for help

Respect – showing kindness, she knows her worth and the worth of others

Consistency – her words and action follows through

TWH-Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase a Resilient Woman in action?

Not just a situation, but a whole movement. The Women’s Rights Movement from 1848 – 1920. It didn’t include just women in action, but men too, however, the common cause for this movement is extremely powerful to me. It took almost a century of protesting to get this ratified. Women being able to vote has only existed for 98 years. It seems like a big number, but it really hasn’t been that long.

TWH-What barriers if any may a Resilient Woman encounter?

The number one barrier every woman will face is herself. I still struggle with this daily. How do you talk to yourself when you’re under pressure? How do you feel in your own skin? Your mentality, being in the present and embracing what is in front of you matters on how you carry yourself to break patterns.

If you look at the way you encourage a friend through their hardships, that’s “exactly” how you should be encouraging yourself to reach your potential. Culture; the way you were raised, what you’re accustomed to, and your beliefs, are all factors to the barrier. Sometimes to get to the next level, you must experience things you’re uncomfortable with.

TWH-Is society recognizing the Resilient Women today and if so how?

Yes, in some areas they are, however, I still feel in certain areas that we have a long way to go especially amongst the Corporate world or any Leadership position. They want to embrace diversity, they advocate equality, yet they’re still reluctant to give Women that opportunity to lead.

TWH-Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

Everyone has a story to tell, but one that touches me the most are the women and girls who have been and are still going through a genocide of their people.

It makes me think of my Mom during the Vietnam War. She had to flee from the only home she’s ever known with 2 children in her arms. That’s a whole story itself, but women who live through the horror, surviving war zone, and the strength to do whatever it takes to keep their Life.

TWH-Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?
Yes, absolutely there are limits. This goes together with having self-awareness. A woman should learn to be aware of her limits and not be afraid to fail or ask for help. It’s not about the number of times you fail, but how you accept the failure and get yourself to try again.

TWH-If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I’d start off by listening. Everyone has a story to tell. What she’s going through at that moment, the journey on how she got here, and what keeps her moving forward.

I’d hope to bring value to her, find common ground, and offer words of encouragement to never stop fighting towards her passion.

My superpower is helping people in any way I possibly can. Always be yourself.

Well said, Anna. Thanks again for participating in this series. Your thoughts are certainly enlightening and your courage to speak out and inform can definitely be seen.

There you go, my friend. Words of encouragement spoken by another sincere example of courage, tenacity, and perseverance.

Anna is on a mission of which she shares on social media. You can connect with her through these platforms below.

Twitter – Anna MV @anunusualpath

Instagram – www.Instagram.com/anunusualpath

Pinterest- https://www.pinterest.com/AnUnusualPath/

Blog/website – https://anunusualpath.com

Pics: Courtesy of Anna

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Gratitude-Giving Thanks

So, it is good during this time of year to take into account a few tips that remind us that life happens to us all and not be discouraged but be thankful.

posted first by Al Bell November 21, 2018

Well, we made it to that time of year where we are just around the corner from Christmas.

Yes, it’s Thanksgiving time 2018! It is a time to stop and recognize where you are in respect to health and wellness and all that life on earth encompasses.

This might involve family, friends, your health, your current means of sustenance, or any relationship. Whatever the case, this is a good time to put things in perspective and just give thanks.

Sure, this time can also bring about those hurtful and tragic memories. In these cases, one must find it within themselves to latch onto that which brings comfort and solace.

So, it is good during this time of year to take into account a few tips that remind us that life happens to us all and not be discouraged but be thankful.

Remember:

Although things may be tough for now, remember there is always someone else dealing with a tougher circumstance.

One’s thinking/thought will determine outcomes. One’s thinking can be likened to a rudder on a ship that guides it.
Lifes circumstances are designed for one to gain some type of experience. Learn it and move on just as one successfully endures schooling.
Tough situations are temporal not to last forever. If it were not, there would be no success stories from successful people we know.
One has not experienced a challenge alone. At some point, someone else encountered the same challenge.

Definitely not a complete list, so if there are any helps I missed please feel free to leave in the comments.

Have you connected with me on IG or Twitter? If not, I’d love to connect with you. On both platforms, you will have access to daily inspirational quotes designed to give you that mental charge to get you through.

Credits: Pixabay Images

Featured

Tell Your Story

Everyone has a story. Within each are identifiable life experiences connecting us all;Designed to teach encourage and inspire not only the individual but another too. What’s Your Story?

Welcome to the “Tell Your Story” highlight reel.

If you haven’t guessed it as yet, everyone has a story. Within each is identifiable life experiences, anyone can glean from if open to receive.

This is a Highlight Reel of another’s life journey designed to inspire.

So, prepare your mind and enjoy a coffee/tea as this mother-daughter Stephanie/Sydney of @smalltownliv share their story.

Hey everyone! Small Town Living USA is a lifestyle blog started by Stephanie and Sydney, a mother and daughter duo. We blog about several things that we are passionate about. Recipes and restaurants are definitely at the top of our list, being the foodies that we are. We also enjoy blogging about small towns and small businesses. Shopping local and supporting small businesses is extremely important to us! Travel, holidays, family and home décor are other things you will find us blogging about.

Introductions: I am Stephanie, the Mom of this duo. Some of my hobbies are reading, journaling, planning with the Happy Planner, cooking, baking, traveling and spending time with my family. I love all things coffee and chocolate! They seriously should be a food group! My husband (Jim) and I have been married for 33 years. We have two children, Sydney and Mason. Jim and I have just started into the empty-nester phase of our lives. Definitely looking forward to being a grandma in the (hopefully near) future. 😊

Prior to blogging, I was a medical biller and coder in a busy pulmonology practice. I really enjoyed the challenge of getting medical claims paid and working with insurance companies. I gave up this position because I was needed to help with my father-in-law who was suffering from Alzheimer’s. I helped take care of him until he lost his battle this past June. I wouldn’t have traded this time with him for anything in the world! I learned a lot about life and what is truly important during this time.

Introductions: I am Sydney, the daughter of this duo. I absolutely love Christmas!!! I am an absolute Christmas fanatic!!! I always have my tree up by November 1^st (please don’t hate me!). I also love to bake, cook and travel. My husband (Austin) and I have been married for two years. We both are looking forward to children in the future (and it can’t come soon enough for my mom and my mother-in-law). Austin and I hope to be able to adopt a baby with down syndrome, as well. We both have a passion for children with down syndrome!

Prior to blogging, I worked as a paraprofessional in a kindergarten class for a sweet little guy with Cerebral Palsy. I loved this position and had planned on staying in this field, but when my husband accepted a position that would take us back to Ohio we couldn’t turn down the opportunity. We were living in Florida and both wanted to get back home before we had children. We were so blessed to be able to get back home!

Why did you start blogging?

I (Stephanie) have always loved writing. Journaling is a huge passion of mine. There is something about an empty sheet of paper or a blank computer screen that just seems to speak to me. Sydney has loved photography for years. She really enjoys taking people pictures and capturing those special moments for them. We had been tossing around the idea of a blog for several years and the timing just seemed to fall into place for us. I do the majority of the writing and Sydney does the majority of the photography.

Blogging is such a creative outlet for us, but also gives us a chance to share so much with the world! Whether a recipe or a place we have traveled to someone always seems to appreciate the story and the photography. Our favorites are when we get a message that something we have shared has really touched someone and made their day! Those are the best!

Sydney and I have always been very close. Blogging together gives us the opportunity to do what we both love and spend time together. What could be better? 😊

What hurdles (mental or physical) did you have to overcome to get your blog started and continue on today?

For me (Stephanie) that is easy, technology. I am a complete technological misfit! I have always been a paper and pencil kind of girl (remember, I am 53!!). Facebook was the only social media platform I used. Learning how Instagram and Twitter worked was a huge deal for me. But…I hung in there, asked a lot of questions and finally got them figured out. I laugh now at how easy they are, but what a huge obstacle I made them.

For me (Sydney) it was learning how to design the blog and all the background work that goes into it. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes. SEO is still an ongoing lesson for me…

Patience is something we both have to work at if we are being honest! I (Stephanie) get impatient when there are computer glitches and Sydney can’t get them fixed quickly. Sydney gets impatient when I can’t grasp a technical concept. This definitely is a hurdle some days!

For both of us, it was pretty easy to know who was going to do what. Figuring this out was a much smaller hurdle. I (Stephanie) do the writing, set up the appointments at the small businesses to do interviews, do most of the face-to-face talking with people and post on our social media platforms. Sydney does the photography, editing, maintenance of our blog and computer troubleshooting. These decisions were definitely the easiest to make of all the things we had to figure out.

What advice would you share with someone who wants to start blogging?

Do a lot of research! Read a large variety of blogs! Sydney and I spent about 4 months doing major research. She researched the technical side while I researched the writing and content side of blogging.

We also enrolled in a 30-day blogging course. That was so helpful! They had so many different sites for us to check out and answered questions for us we didn’t even know we had.

Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions. Questions are how we learn. Make mistakes, if you aren’t making mistakes you are not growing and learning.

Finally, make sure to have fun! That is what this is all about. If you are not enjoying it then it becomes just another thing you have to do. Blogging is about sharing what you love and are passionate about with the rest of the world

Sydney and I would like to thank Al Bell for allowing us this opportunity to share a little bit about ourselves with you! Hopefully, you learned a little bit more about us.

In short, we did ladies. Thanks for sharing your experience with us and much-continued success to you both.

To follow and stay up to date on what Stephanie and Sydney are doing connect with them through their website listed below.

Blog: https://www.smalltownlivingusa.com/

Twitter- @smalltownliv

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The Resilient Woman series

Courage Tenacity Perseverance

Hello, again friend! Welcome to the Resilient Woman series.

My next guest is no stranger to speaking in front of others. As a matter of fact, that was her profession on a daily basis. As fate would have it, she now channels her experience online while supporting her family.

Meet Deanna. Read on as she shares her work and family life experience. Hi D!

Al I’d like to thank you for the opportunity to share and be a part of your series!

TWH– Your welcome and thanks for accepting.

So my name is Deanna. I’m a single mother of four wonderful kids. My youngest are twins. I’ve been on my own for a while now. Everything I do, I do for them. I hope they inherit my values, morals, and love for Jesus…and may they exceed all their own goals.

I have a degree in Business Finance. I also have extensive training in Human Behavior and Leadership. John C. Maxwell is one of my favorite people! I used to speak in classrooms and on stage. I have now transitioned that into my online coaching program at LuckyLoveLife.com. I’m a success and mindset coach. I help people turn a five-year plan into one.

My goal is to help transform one person, one family, at a time to get them financially free so they can live a life full of amazing miracles and choices!

An online business is simply another job if you don’t learn how to leverage it for your personal benefit.

TWH– Good point Deanna. Definitely, need to know how to use an online business to your benefit, not a detriment.

So,

TWH- What is your definition of a strong woman?

My definition of a strong woman is one who uses her moral compass and faith to guide her life in all facets. She isn’t swayed by hate, injustice, or drama. It’s not that she doesn’t care or have an opinion. She simply refuses to be “offended” by all the things or let the circumstances of the world steal her joy.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

A resilient woman can disagree without being hateful. She can trust God to take care of her when times are tough and thank him when times are good. She knows the difference between grace and mercy and shows both to others consistently. A resilient woman goes after her dreams and uses each day to pursue her best life. When she reaches those goals, she helps others reach theirs. Pay it forward so to speak.

Deanna

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the Resilient Women in action?

I feel like any woman building a business to give herself and family a better life is an excellent example. It’s not easy. Believing in one’s self consistently. Doing what others tell you is a pipe dream. I applaud those who really take chances on their ideas and goals.

TWH- What barriers if any may the Resilient Women encounter?

I think media has really put an ugly image on what successful and resilient woman are. They paint the resilient woman as a victim or the successful woman as the rich b*tch. This does not have to be the case. You define you. Bouncing back from adversity can make you tougher but it doesn’t have to make you jaded. You choose. Becoming wealthy doesn’t have to make you greedy. You can choose generosity and love.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

Yes, society does recognize resilience and in my eyes, this has been a double-edged victory. Women like Oprah are so inspirational for those striving to make any kind of dream come true. So for the stage of education, career, and even sports, absolutely.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

Jessica Alba is an awesome woman! Talk about resilient. When Hollywood basically asked her to be nothing but a pretty face, she simply walked away and started a multi-billion dollar company. A company that focuses on healthy products for families at that. What a rock star. And who can forget Helen Keller? That woman earned a degree despite multiple disabilities. Mother Teresa exemplified a life of selfless giving and love.

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

Yikes, that’s a loaded question but I believe in honesty. I think there should be limits to being strong. We should always be strong in faith, family, values, and the pursuit of our passions. But I’ve witnessed a change in culture where some women have pushed so hard for equality, that they’ve nearly killed chivalry. Can I open my own car door and walk myself to the front door? Heck ya, but if that guy wants a second date he’d better offer. Unfortunately, many don’t anymore for fear they’ll “offend” a strong woman. I think men and women are different in many ways and some of those ways should be celebrated, not crushed. I believe there is an appropriate place for softness.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

When I used to speak in classrooms, this is exactly what I was brought in for. I now teach some of those same principles in my coaching program. I help women overcome their self-limiting beliefs, uncover what it is they truly want (not what someone else convinced them they should want) and teach them financial success and business habits that can create freedom! In the age of the internet, this has become more accessible than ever.

I think the other way you can help women become strong is simply by setting a good example. Be honest. Be brave. Follow your values. Crush your goals. Rinse and Repeat.

WoW! Well said Deanna and great examples of success in the face of challenges. There you go, friend. Another example of taking life head-on with all it has to offer and pressing through.

To connect with Deanna and be apart of her success movement follow her on these social media platforms. She would love to have you be apart.

Twitter: www.Twitter.com/D_LuckyLoveLife/

Instagram: d_LuckyLoveLife

Pinterest: LuckyLoveLife

Featured

Tell Your Story

Everyone has a story. Within each are identifiable life experiences connecting us all;Designed to teach encourage and inspire not only the individual but another too. What’s Your Story?

Welcome to the “Tell Your Story” highlight reel.

If you haven’t guessed it as yet, everyone has a story. Within each is identifiable life experiences, anyone can glean from if open to receive.

This is a Highlight Reel of another’s life journey designed to inspire.

So, prepare your mind and enjoy a coffee/tea as Marc of @nimrod1979 shares his story.

Hi! My name is Marc and I am the founder of the blog Marky Marc’s World. When I’m not blogging I like to watch sports, listen to music, create music playlists, play Xbox, PS4, and old school video games. I also like to shoot photography, travel to sporting events all over the country, and spend time with my wife Diane and my two cats Jack-Jack and Ginger.

Before I started blogging I worked at a major international tv network in the Washington, D.C. area. I worked on a lot of cool projects and somewhat climbed the corporate ladder before being offered a buyout package due to company restructuring. Since then I’ve been doing freelancing and contract work in the D.C. area while building up my blog and social media presence. I still work in the television field, but am hoping to move in another direction as time goes on. In addition to my television and blogging career, I also do some freelance writing on the side as well. This is something I hope to turn into more of a full-time job in the near future.

Why did you start blogging?

I started blogging for a few different reasons. I wanted to give myself a platform to express myself. I’ve always had a desire to share my life and stories through my writing but didn’t really start working on it until the past few years. Once I left my job of ten years, I felt like it was time to put my money where my mouth is and start sharing my writing and story with the world. I also wanted to take more control of my life and career. I felt like blogging could be a way for me to do that. So far I feel like blogging has given way more back to me than I’ve given to it. I’ve learned so much about myself through the blogging community and work I do it is mind-boggling.

What hurdles (mental or physical) did you have to overcome to get your blog started and continue on today?

I think my biggest hurdle was just learning the ropes in the blogging world. It’s not something you can just dive right into and master. There are a lot of ways in which a blogger can obtain success. There are also a lot of quirks and curveballs along the way. I’ve found that you have to have a certain “fire in your belly” in order to truly take blogging seriously. It takes a lot more work than anybody could ever imagine. For me, the biggest challenge today is for me to make sure I stay on task, keep evolving, and challenge myself to be a better blogger.

What advice would you share with someone who wants to start blogging?

My advice is if you feel like blogging is in your heart and you’re ready to share your thoughts with the world, then don’t waste any time dwelling on it. Today is the best day to start your blogging journey. A lot of new bloggers question themselves, edit their work, and second guess a lot of things. The best thing to do is to put a game plan together, go for it, and know that you are going to learn, change, and evolve as you go through your journey and that’s ok!

Twitter: www.Twitter.com/nimrod1979

Pinterest; www.pinterest.com/MarkyMarcsWorld

Blog: www.markymarcsworld.blog

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/nimrod79

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Are you getting enough Rest?

Almost seen as a foreign word to many today, rest is kinda that long lost friend you haven’t seen in a while but looking to hook-up with.

Rest!

Almost seen as a foreign word to many today, rest is kinda that long lost friend you haven’t seen in a while but looking to hook-up with. With busy schedules, many are hustling hours past the normal 9am to a 5pm job. In a lot of cases, both partners are working longer too, forcing even more of a strain on the family as a whole. This does not include the after-work activities which can stretch ones waking time well into the late night hours and affecting much-needed sleep.

Your amount of rest depends on a couple of factors. Your age and the amount of physical activity one engages in are two of the main factors. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute recommends teens get 9-10 hours of rest while only 7-8 hours for adults. 1. If you engage in a strenuous physical activity with goals to build strength and/or muscle, rest is key in the bodies development.

A Sleep poll was conducted and revealed close to 90 percent of adults admit that they feel very effective at accomplishing things when getting enough rest. When asking the same group about prioritizing sleep as compared to and ahead of fitness/exercise, work, and hobbies/interest only 10 percent admitted they do. So strange that the group who encourages fitness and exercise would not prioritize rest first, seeing that rest is a key component of the bodies growth and rehabilitation. My guess is that many get so caught up in a busy lifestyle that rest is more than likely not even given a second thought.

From time to time I have fallen into this vicious cycle of being loaded with plans that need to be executed throughout a day to day and week to week schedule. The catch is, I get so caught up in the hustle that I don’t recognize the need to get enough rest. You see the body is kinda like a machine that needs proper maintenance from time to time. When it does not get the attention it needs it will fail.

For instance, if the oil is not maintained for the engine to run smoothly and it loses viscosity the time will come when it will overheat and engine fail will be the result. The same can happen when one does not get the proper sleep. Extreme exhaustion may result which can lead to non-productivity of any kind. This is not what we want with our bodies.

So, to defend against not getting enough sleep I want to highlight these reminder benefits as to what happens when we do get enough rest.

Sleep provides:

Repair – the body during periods of rest repairs itself, meaning the bodies cells use this time to clean themselves up if damaged.
Cleanse – The bodies cells use this time to pool and store waste for evacuation.
Clear thinking – When brain cells get a chance to revitalize and rest the result is clear cognitive thinking.
Productivity – when the bodies organs rest their overall rested state translates into fresh energy
Better Mood – non-rested states can lead to stress which can lead to unwanted mood swings and being temperamental. Never knew anyone to hate an upbeat attitude.
Quality time – When one is rested there is a better chance to get out and enjoy life’s activities. Especially when it comes to family functions.
Muscle growth – the process of tearing down to build goes true when it comes to physical fitness workouts. Getting the proper rest encourages the development of muscles and the metabolism of fat.

So, if you are not getting the proper amount of sleep then I hope this post will at least encourage you to seriously adopt the mindset to do so now.

Of course, this is not a complete list of benefits but at least a teezer. I hope you enjoyed the read. For more encouraging posts on life and fitness check out this post!

Credits:

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/sleep-deprivation-and-deficiency

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/media-center/press-release/2018-sleep-in-america-poll-shows

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The Resilient Woman Series

Courage Tenacity Perseverance

Hi! So glad you stopped by. If you’re here then you are in for a treat!

The Resilient Woman series has been a joy and encouragement. Each interviewee has been fabulous. Their authentic interviews are uplifting and motivating, instilling in the reader a variety of emotions from empathy to self-awareness to empowerment. If you have not read as yet, I encourage you to do so.

This weeks guest is Alanna Paige! She is a determined mother who promotes the vegan lifestyle. Although tough at times persuading the young ones to this lifestyle she continues on, being an example. She enjoys cooking and finds it therapeutic. I personally see this when I visit her Instagram page. One thought…mouth-watering.

Being an introvert, She also loves meeting and chilling with others who’ve adopted the vegan lifestyle.

So Paige, thanks again for being apart of the Resilient Woman series. My first question…

TWH-What is your definition of a Resilient Woman?

A strong woman is someone who can take care of herself despite how others feel. She’s able to put herself first because she knows she isn’t good to anyone if she isn’t taking care of herself. She has to be kind and patient. She has grace and knows when to walk away from a situation.

TWH-Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the Resilient Women in action?

Myself! I was going through a rough divorce and my ex-was just so cruel. I was a stay at home mother so it was very hard for me to wrap my head around being the sole provider for my son. I snapped out of it and went to school to become a nurse assistant. I worked during the day while my son was at school, I took classes online and just did what I had to do.

TWH-What barriers if any may a Resilient Women encounter?

I think one of the main things women deal with is stereotypes. Assuming that we can or can’t do something because we are women. I used to hate when people would assume I can’t accomplish something because I had children. No! Its possible to have kids and still be successful. Its hard, but it is very possible. Another issue I have is when people assume you aren’t being a good mother because you also have a career. I’m not going to even begin to comment on that.

TWH-Is society recognizing the Resilient Women today and if so how?

In my opinion, not enough. I feel at the end of the day we still have to fight for too many things. We aren’t respected enough.

TWH-Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

Phylicia Rashad is amazing in every single way!

TWH-Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

No. There is never a limit and because of that, we are strong women.

TWH-If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I would have them focus on themselves. It’s so important to make sure that you’re being taken care of. We all fall victim to putting others before ourselves. We can’t do that anymore. We put our children before ourselves, our spouses before ourselves, It is never-ending. I would help them grow and become the best version of themselves. Once they are able to do that; they will be invincible.

Well said, Paige! I understand about having to deal with stereotypes and being pre-evaluated based on a situation. Wonderful testament! Thank you again for sharing your thoughts!

There you go, folks! Here we have another example of courage, tenacity, and perseverance in the face of life’s challenges. my hope is that you have been encouraged to press on.

Paige is active on social media outlets. You can find her on…

Twitter- @paigethevegan

Instagram-www.Instagram.com/paigethevegan/

Pinterest-www.Pinterest.com/paigethevegan/

Blog/website- www.paigethevegan.com

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Its Autumn

Hello Friends! Welcome back to The Watering Whole. If you are like me, you might just be excited. Why? Its Autumn time or the time of year where the weather begins to change causing the leaves to change colors.

This is definitely a good time to assess where one may be in regards to meeting their yearly goal. Are you on track? If not, what is working? What is not working?

While there are plenty of things to prepare for on the personal side of things there are just a few things I want to share on the business side to be mindful of. These points have helped me to stay on track and realize results. I only share these to stir up thought which may lead to encouraging someone who is looking to assess progress within their business.

Look into:

What strategy is/is not working-With any business goal there should be a strategy utilized to get that business where it needs to go. For instance, let’s say company A has a product that it wants to sell to the masses. How would that company introduce that product? Would it decide to use commercial TV advertising or commercial radio? Whatever the strategy used, the time will come when the process will need to be assessed to determine how effective it is.
Bang for the buck-This is a check on whether the monies spent toward your business are getting a good return. For example, business A decides to spend monies toward their product, advertising, and equipment. With any successful business, to be profitable their expenses need to be less than their income. A thorough monthly tracking of these items helps to see exactly what’s being spent and coming in.
Assess the new-innovative and progressive businesses have in their overall plan a strategy to always think of creative ways to introduce a new product or share an existing one. Technology giants Samsung and Apple are constantly introducing more robust phones than the previous versions.
Check competitor-in order to have a successful business one of the most crucial components to include is a plan to discover the competitor. In many ways, this helps to make your product or service better and unique. Competitors kinda bring out the best in another company by forcing that company to stay sharp in their products overall quality, appearance, and effectiveness. In the end, the customer is given a competitive choice.

Well, I hope this helps. The year is fastly approaching the end and it behooves anyone in business to recognize their purpose for starting and the need to reaffirm their business goals. That being said, if you have ventured out into the social media arena you will definitely see a need to try a few points if you have not done so already.

Again, these are just a few points. I know there are others. If so, share in the comments below.

Thanks, friend for stopping by and reading. Are we connected on Instagram? If not, I would be happy to connect with you. My IG connection is www.Instagram.com/Alfitlifeblogger/

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The Resilient Woman Series

Courage Tenacity Perseverence

Hello friends! How are you? Guess what? The year is three-quarters of the way thru and we are fastly approaching the end. Time certainly flies when you’re having fun! Well, I hope things are moving in the direction you desire.

Welcome back to the site and I hope you are prepared to be uplifted. If you are already, that’s great! Be prepared to be encouraged even more.

Continuing on with the series “The Resilient Woman” this weeks guest is as I describe a “Get It Done” example. Her name by definition means “friend”. If you follow her in the social media arena you see quite quickly that she has plenty of ideas, is quite personal and engages everyone. If you want an example of setting goals and pursuing them then one only needs to connect with Ruth.

Welcome, Ruth! Glad you could be apart of the series. Could you tell us a bit about why you started blogging?

Hi, I’m Ruth and I originally started my blog as a place to write about my journey with mental health after being diagnosed with anxiety and depression. It has since blossomed into a place where I try and help others and make them feel good, as well as sharing some blogging tips along the way. So, my tagline has become “your personal cheerleader, on a one-woman mission to make your life brighter and your blog better” and I love what my blog represents now.

That is awesome! You and your blog certainly stand out as being an exciting place.

With regards to the Resilient Woman series…

TWH- What is your definition of a (strong) Resilient Woman?

A strong woman to me is someone who keeps on trying, even when she’s failed before, or feels like everything is against her. Sometimes, a strong woman is the woman who gets out of bed, even though she’s exhausted and her limbs feel heavy. Other times, she’s the one who walks along the street, full of confidence with her head held high. A strong woman has so many different meanings, each worth as much as the other.

TWH- A Resilient Woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

Determination – you must have some degree of determination to keep going!
Hope – I think resilience comes from a place of hope; of believing things will get better.
Courage – Nobody likes failure so to put yourself out there and risk facing that, again and again, takes a whole lot of bravery in my opinion!

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the Resilient Women in action?

The first one I have to mention is single mothers. I think these are a magnificent example of the lengths some women will go to provide for their children and ensure they know they are loved. I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to raise a family by yourself and I have the utmost respect for women who are in this situation.

The other one I’m going to choose is female entrepreneurs. Although some progress has been made, I think it’s still difficult for women to become successful business women and I love it when a new one emerges! I know there must have been so many times when it felt as though they weren’t getting anywhere and they probably felt like giving up so I can’t help but feel delighted when they achieve their goals.

TWH- What barriers if any may the Resilient Women encounter?

The thing about a resilient woman is they encounter plenty of barriers, they just don’t necessarily get stuck behind them. So, maybe there is self-doubt in there, or other people telling them they can’t do it, but they keep pushing forward.

TWH- Is society recognizing the Resilient Women today and if so how?

I’d say yes! There is definitely some way to go with it, but I feel like strong women in society are much more celebrated now. One of my favorite examples is Michelle Obama. I feel as though she didn’t hang back in the shadows of Barack Obama and his glory, but stood beside him, and people loved her for that.

TWH- Who is your example of a Resilient Woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

I have two, and I’m proud to say they are the women in my family. The first is my mum who, no matter what life has brought her way, has managed to keep a smile on her face and the sun in her heart. She always manages to find the bright side. Life has knocked her down, but never out. I have admired her for this throughout my life and will continue to do so for as long as I live.

The second is my older sister. She is independent and fierce. I have always been the one who was quick to get into relationships and find comfort in that, whereas she is happy to do her own things. Both have worked for us in their own ways, but I really look up to her and feel incredibly proud of her.

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a Resilient Woman?

Everybody has their limits, and I don’t think strong women are an exception to that, but I feel they may hide them better. I believe a certain amount of pressure comes from it. You feel like you have to live up to it and set an example, so you are constantly pushing yourself. Every now and then, it’s good to slow down, take a day in your pajamas and eat some ice cream.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a Resilient Woman how would you help them?

I’d tell them to believe in themselves. This is a skill I am still learning with the help of a counselor, but I am seeing there is such a power to it. I’d like to put it to you in reverse: consider how much energy you use in making yourself feel bad, and filling yourself with doubt. Think of how completely hopeless it makes you feel. Now, imagine using the same power to celebrate yourself, and all that you are. Incredible things would be possible. It all starts with one sentence: “I am worth more than this.”

WOW! Thanks again for sharing your thoughts and participating in the Resilient Woman series. Your words are definitely encouraging.

So, there you have it, friends. If you want a friend for life, Ruth is your connection. If you have not already, Ruth would love to have apart of her crew and be that personal cheerleader.

Connect with her below through these social media platforms.

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ruthinrevolt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthinrevolt

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ruthinrevolt
Blog/website: https://www.ruthinrevolt.com

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The Resilient Woman series

Courage Tenacity Persistence

Welcome back, friend! Glad you could stop by and catch up on the latest regarding the Resilient Woman series.

Overall, it has been an enlightening experience to interview the ladies. One will certainly be energized to persevere through life’s challenges after reading their personal success stories.

This weeks guest is Tierra Baisden!

Tierra considers herself to be an overcomer. How? She admits she has battled mentally receiving acceptance from others. A common struggle among many who face peer pressure of some sort. As she has matured though, she understands that one must make up in their own mind to live their life for themselves and no one else, for this is what makes one unique. Tierra loves to binge watch her favorite TV shows, drink lots of coffee, and engage in physical fitness workouts alongside her husband. Read on as she shares her thoughts.

Welcome, Tierra! Glad to have you as a guess.

TWH– What is your definition of a Resilient Woman?

A strong woman for me exhibits Independence, takes on challenges, able to move forward when situations go left, and capable of standing up for yourself. I also think when women, specifically mothers who lose a child or overcome something traumatic while pregnant show signs of a strong woman. The strength they carry helps mold them to be this strong mother/person.

TWH– A Resilient Woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

Entertains Challenges: she takes on challenges like a champ. She goes head in and doesn’t think about it, she just does it.

Accepts Failure: even through mistakes, or something not going the way it should, she becomes persistence in bettering herself.

Enjoys Independence: being able to hold her own and do things herself, without always needing the help from someone.

TWH– Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the Resilient women in action?

Yes!

My mother! I don’t remember too much as a young kid, but for her to be able to handle my brother and me close in age, and then my sister at such a young age is amazing! The strength she had to gain by taking care of three young kids while my dad was working shows that woman/ mothers can do anything.
My sister! She takes on motherhood with breeze; even when facing life’s obstacles.
My friend! She recently had a baby, who had to face some challenges in the beginning. To see what she went through and how she overcame it blows my mind every time I think about it.

TWH– What barriers if any may the Resilient Women encounter?

The number one thing that I think women encounter, is accepting self. Most women do not know how to love themselves and accept who they are. They compare themselves with other women and become this person they’re not.
The workplace. Positions, sexual harassment, being at the top, etc.

TWH– Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

I would say yes and no. I know on IG, some of the women I follow (bloggers/mothers), from time to time post women who inspire them. So, I think women are being recognized for what they do, but I also don’t think that it’s being recognized enough (hence the no).

TWH– Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

From my age group, I would have to say a close friend of mine. Just seeing all that she has endured in the last couple of years inspires me as a woman and one day a mother.
A friend from high school who lost her daughter last year. How she got through and still able to carry a smile.
Women in general who are doing things for themselves, setting goals, and accomplishing them are all strong women!!

TWH– Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

No.

TWH– If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

Letting them know they can do anything their heart desires. No matter what anyone says (family, friends, co-workers, etc), you can do it, if you believe it! You’ll be faced with challenges, but whatever you do, keep swimming! Don’t stop and stay stuck, because you’ll be stuck there forever. Never get comfortable! Don’t always look for help (nothing wrong with asking for help), but sometimes you have to do things by yourself, you can’t always depend on people. And, never put expectations on people, you’ll be left disappointed. Always remember to love yourself and take care of yourself!

Thanks, Tierra for sharing these inspiring thoughts. Your points are well noted. Especially your point of comparing one’s self with another.

Life certainly encompasses a combination of uniques individuals not a combination of the same.

Thank so much for taking the time to share your candid thoughts.

Well, there you go, my friend! Another encouraging life example of pressing through challenges. Tierra can be found on other social media outlets too. Check her out here.

www.twitter.com/tierradeynee/

www.facebook.com/tierra.baisden/

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And Suddenly…

Hi friend! How are you managing life? I hope you’re encouraged to go on as life will always present situations that force us to reaffirm our drive to exist.

And Suddenly…

Hi friend! How are you managing life? I hope you’re encouraged to go on as life will always present situations that force us to reaffirm our drive to exist.

When this happens we must reevaluate what’s important and always pursue to be better examples.

I bring this to light because I experienced such a situation within the past couple of weeks which caused pause. Let me explain.

So the day started off as normal. Early and off to the grind(work). A few hours pass and I am swamped with emails. Noon arrives and I am thinking of passion(blog) related strategies. Shortly after, I receive a call from a friend I very rarely receive a call from. I answer. We make the usual Hi and What’s going on greetings. He asks the question “have you heard?” which forces nervous anticipation for the worse. I stated, “No”. He then proceeds to share that one of our friends has passed away suddenly.

I must admit I was stunned a bit when he shared the news, especially since we all just a couple of days ago engaged in pleasant group chat.

Suddenly, I went back to all the times we had laughed at jokes, talked about concerns, disputed issues, and smiled when we passed each other in the hall.

This especially grabbed my attention since it was my friends’ wife who I have known for over 20 years. Empathy took over as I placed myself in his shoes. I immediately felt the loss and pain. To be with someone for over 30 years, one is sure to be connected and feel a loss.

The loss reassured me that each day is not promised and reminded me of the importance to make each day count by investing toward the best in others whether that be an encouraging word, smile, or a helpful action.

That being said, I share a few unselfish engagement points that encourage positive self-development while providing a fruitful investment in others.

Provide a daily smile
Compliment when you can
Minimize the negative/sinic thoughts
Offer help when you can
View each day as a New start/Fresh Opportunity/Renewed Cause with anyone

This is definitely not a complete list so please offer others as a comment below.

My hope is that by engaging with others through these points some sort of solace can be made out of an otherwise breath-taking situation.

Have you connected with me on Instagram(IGTv)? There, I share encouraging life quotes and comments in addition to promoting physical fitness routines. I provide Blogger shout outs too.

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It’s ok!

Have you encountered a road block to your business progress

Hi friend! How was your week? Did it go well?

My week was not that bad. It went as expected. Lol.

I could not wait for the week to finish, I experienced circumstances that were not planned, and I pressed out another week of four to five good physical fitness workouts.

There was nothing drastic about it but I did receive inspiration on a concern that I periodically encounter throughout the year as well as others.

Let me explain!

Although you have a plan to reach a goal, do you sometimes feel like the wheels are spinning and no progress is being made? Or do you feel like you are expending plenty of energy but not going anywhere? Yes, you know the feeling. Don’t be alarmed!

This experience is all too common and affects many. It is the feeling of hitting a brick wall with no inspiration and not progressing toward your goal.

If you have encountered this I offer a few tips to help you get rejuvenated toward achieving your goal.

It’s normal– Do not panic and get flustered. The experience happens to everyone from corporations, groups, organizations, and individuals. This may show itself when you see businesses revamp their business plans. Sometimes it could be offering a new menu item or possibly a refacing of a company’s image.
Embrace it– The feeling one experiences could be a subtle sign to make one aware that what’s been working is getting outdated and needs revamping. Embracing the experience could almost be a matter of life and death for a business. Just think of a business you support continuing to promote the same marketing style that worked for them ten years ago trying to utilize the same promotional techniques years later. I am not sure if that product would sell so well.
Reassess– The experience is a time to reassess what strategy that is currently in place. Over time the strategy may prove to be less effective as before and therefore needs tweaking. This could mean making the product or service more robust, less complicated, sleeker, user-friendly, or more colorful. Whatever the strategy change, a bit of research will be needed to ensure the change has the most “bang for the buck” in order to reach the goal.
Document– When you encounter what feels like a brick wall, it is good to track and document the changes so you have a record of what has worked in the past. Record keeping helps to show how long what worked lasted and gives a snapshot of the business environment at that time. This is extremely important when working toward your goal because it highlights the economic and social climate of the time. What consumers buying habits are like shows in this data.

So, if your passion is in fitness, blogging, or another business you most certainly have encountered times that feel like your not making any progress. I implore you to use these tips to your advantage as they are effective in any business model. If I have missed any that you have used to keep your passion on track, please leave in the comments below.

Are we connected on the Instagram platform? If not, connect here. I would love to follow and support you! There you will find highlights on fellow bloggers, fitness tips, and of course daily motivation. See ya there.

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The Resilient Woman series

Courage Tenacity Persistence

Welcome back friend to this weeks guest interview. Hope all is well.

If not caught up, click here to get the why behind “The Resilient Woman Series”.

This weeks guest is putting her money where her passion is. She is literally a walking example of one who has endured a common struggle. Overcoming anxiety and depression has fueled her to establish a portal designed to encourage, infuse, and ultimately transform the mind toward positive growth. Read on as she shares her passion.

Meet Seppy.

My name is Seppy and I’m a personal development blogger from Elle is for Love, where I share action-based inspired tools and resources to help women slay their goals and live their dream life.

For years, I struggled with depression and anxiety. I felt lost and hopeless; I didn’t have direction or purpose and every day was a struggle to get out of bed. Until I turned things around and transformed my life, my mind and my body. I started implementing goal-slaying strategies to slowly but surely build a life that I love.

I wake up almost every day feeling excited and motivated. I’ve seen firsthand the transformation that happens when you apply the right tools and strategies to transform yourself and your life. And I want to share that with other women so that they can feel empowered to take control of their destiny and live a life that they LOVE.

That is awesome Seppy. Your efforts will certainly energize and motivate others.

TWH- What is your definition of a strong woman?

A strong woman has the strength and wisdom to get through anything. She is able to find the resources and help she needs to solve any problem and has the patience and desire to learn and grow.

A strong woman is someone who is able to recognize her strengths and weaknesses, that has the courage to admit when they are wrong or don’t know something. She is able to balance her emotional and intellectual side. She is not embarrassed to be in touch with her emotions and recognizes the value it can bring.

A strong woman doesn’t need the validation of others but recognizes her own value and what she has to offer in the world. She isn’t afraid to share her true self, while also being respectful of others and understanding of differences that might arise.

She is able to take constructive criticism and is constantly working on herself to become better and stronger every day. She doesn’t shy away from challenging situations but welcomes it because she knows that it’s an opportunity to grow even stronger.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

A resilient woman is insightful, strong, and compassionate.

She has insight into herself, her capacities and her weaknesses, which allows her to reach out for help when she needs it. She also has the insight and wisdom to recognize that everything happens for a reason and that if she is able to understand and appreciate the lesson in any situation, then it won’t be as hard to bare.

A resilient woman is strong – strong enough to know that she is able to get through it and strong-willed to not let things get her down. She is able to pick herself back up, dust herself off and keep going.

A resilient woman is so strong that she keeps a brave face so that others can feel courageous and at ease. But a resilient woman is also able to be vulnerable and let her emotions show, without letting them take over and paralyze her.

She is compassionate because she recognizes that everyone has their own journey and their own struggles and that we all need to be more kind towards each other. She is compassionate towards herself as well, to give herself the time and space needed to process her emotions and feelings, and then be able to get back on her feet and continue.

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase The Resilient Women in action?

My mother is a resilient woman. My family and I lived in Guinea, Africa for 6 years. At the time, Guinea was one of the poorest countries of the world. Access to resources was very limited – we often didn’t have power or access to clean water, and the variety of food was limited. Even though we were obviously better off than most, it was still a challenging and unpredictable lifestyle, especially with the added political instability.

But my mother always kept a smile on her face, never complained and always made things fun for my sisters and I. Bath time became fun because we would bathe in a big bucket outside in the yard. Dinner time was fun because it often became a romantic candlelight dinner. She always managed to come up with fun adventures and activities for us so that my sisters and I did not feel the challenges of life that we faced in Guinea.

My mom was resilient because she faced a lot of obstacles to be able to fulfill her role as a mother (at least in the ‘traditional’ sense of the term), but she rose above the challenges, never let them bring her down. She always made the best of it so that her family felt inspired and happy because she created a fun and positive environment.

TWH- What barriers if any may The Resilient Women encounter?

The biggest barrier a resilient woman might encounter is herself: her mindset, thoughts, and interpretation when facing a challenging situation. Anyone can feel discouraged or disheartened.

But that’s a mindset where you believe that life is happening TO you rather than for you. It’s an opportunity to change your perspective to see what you can learn, rather than focusing on the lack or how you wish something was different. Everything happens for a reason and a resilient woman recognizes that.

A resilient woman has the insight and wisdom to recognize that her emotions are valid at the moment, but that feeling discouraged won’t help her. She is able to overcome those limiting beliefs and empower herself to face the challenge head first and deal with it.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

There has been a growing movement recently, recognizing the strength and resilience of women. Women have a tendency not to speak up or to show their strength, but with different stories emerging of the extreme challenges faced by women around the world, there is a growing recognition of the strength and resilience of women.

For example, as women, we face a lot of expectations for our careers to our looks and our behavior. But there’s growing awareness that these are false expectations that are being imposed on us and that we should each carve out our own expectations for ourselves and follow our own paths.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

I think that all women have the strength within them, but it’s a matter of uncovering and unleashing their full potential. All the women around me, my sisters, my mother, my cousins, my aunts, my friends…they all have strengths in some areas and weaknesses and others. But they are not defined by their weaknesses but by their strengths and capacities.

If I had to give an example of a strong woman that is known around the world, I think of Michelle Obama. She is able to be vulnerable and share a softer side while being outspoken and an advocate for subjects that are important to her. She is strong because she knows her worth and her value, while also recognizing her role as a mother, a wife, and a human being.

Another strong woman that I know is my aunt. She went through a lot in her life and instead of letting her life experiences get her down and make her disheartened and frustrated, she continues to keep a smile on her face and is always trying to help others. Her life circumstances haven’t brought her down but have rather made her stronger and more resilient. She is able to handle any situation, with her head held high.

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

The only limit to a strong woman is herself and her beliefs of what she is and isn’t capable of doing.

We all have unlimited capacities to accomplish whatever we set our minds to. It’s only our mindset and our limiting beliefs that hold us back from fulfilling our full potential.

Like I mentioned before, every woman is inherently strong. We were built to be mothers and to raise children, which is physically, emotionally and spiritually a really demanding role. So our genetics make us strong, regardless of our life experiences. But I think that all women need to be given the opportunity to uncover their strength that lies within them.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I think that the moment a woman recognizes her worth, what she has to offer, and understands that her unique voice and journey is inspiring, she will become an unstoppable force.

Women need to feel empowered to use their voice and their stories to connect with others and to make a difference. Once they recognize that their voice matters, that their story is unique and valuable and that someone needs to hear their stories, they will feel compelled to use their voice. And then it becomes a positive reinforcing and unstoppable cycle where the more she uses her voice and is inspired to speak up, the stronger and more powerful she will feel.

Well said Seppy! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and being a positive role model for ladies everywhere.

Well folks, here we have another example of courage, tenacity, and persistence in action. Seppy has certainly shown that although challenges are encountered one has by default the makeup to accept those challenges and be successful.

Thanks again Seppy for taking the time to share your experiences.

Seppy shares her passion on other social media networks listed below.

Twitter https://twitter.com/SeppyforLove

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/seppyforlove/

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.ca/SeppyForLove/

Blog/website http://elleisforlove.com

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Whoa! I made it! 1 Year Blogging Anniversary

Blogging can be a scary venture. With the right connections tho’ it can be a delightful learning experience.

Wow! I made it! Never thought I would make the one year mark of blogging, but I did. Why I did not think so, you ask?

Well, it seemed pretty scary. Writing and publishing before the world was not quite what I envisioned but after reading a few other posts I was encouraged. I thought if they could do it, then I can.

So what did I get out of blogging this past year? Well, I

Met new friends– this was an exciting part for me as I have been told in the past that “I have never met a stranger”. This is certainly true as I have connected with many across the globe. Such a joy to meet others.
Increased in knowledge– This one is a favorite of mine because I believe life, in general, is a learning platform. Because of this, I know I do not know everything so it stands to reason, I must be open minded if I want to grow in knowledge. Blogging has most certainly been a platform to learn. I love reading others passion and life experiences for they by default cause my spirit to be encouraged, motivated, empathetic, sad and excited. I have gained knowledge tips from financial, travel, parenting, entrepreneur, fitness, mental health, education, photography, and vlogging bloggers.
Become a better writer– I can definitely see the difference in my writing. I don’t think I was that bad of a writer in the beginning but I know with the constant writing, I have fine-tuned my writing skills to get better. I must say I love Grammarly. It is definitely a writing tool one must download and have at their disposal. Reading others blog post also has helped to train my mind to good writing practices.
Open-minded – Blogging has opened my mind up to inspiration. I was inspired before but now, blogging has stirred up the inner thoughts of inspiration by helping me to think outside the box. Things I never thought I would engage in seem very capable to do now.

These are just a few highlights of what I have gained over the past year. I am sure I will forever continue to grow and learn more as I progress through my blogging experience.

Stay tuned for my upcoming thanks and appreciation post. My experience has been fun and not without inspiration so I want to highlight those who have impacted me along the way. It will include shoutouts and how I have influenced along the way.

By the way, have you connected with me on the Instagram platform? If you have not, please do. There, you can view a few of the topics I write about in video. There on IGTv. Also, view daily fitness and life tips.

Thanks for the read! See ya next time.

Courtesy: Pixabay photos

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The Resilient Woman series

Courage Tenacity Persistence

Hello friend! Welcome back to the Resilient Woman series. If this is your first time tuning in, then you are in for a treat. The guests have been simply magnificent!. Their candid thoughts reveal the reality of today’s challenges and the mindset needed to address them head-on.

If you find yourself here, Yay! I would suggest preparing your mind to be energized and motivated. If you felt you were alone, think again. The series is designed to enlighten you to the fact that we all encounter some of the same challenges and are not isolated.

My next guest is quite talented and experienced. Being a graphic designer with over 10yrs experience she knows what business challenges to overcome and how to translate them into positive business experiences. She is a mom with wit and a direct sense of humor. Take a listen as she shares her thoughts.

So Ashley, can you share a bit about yourself?

Hello, my name is Ashley. I am a stay-at-home mom who also happens to be a Freelance Graphic Designer, Etsy Shop Owner, and Blogger.I’m a small town girl with big dreams. I would describe myself as extremely driven, competitive by nature, and very much an introvert, although, outspoken when it comes to things, I’m passionate about. I am honored to have been asked to be a part of The Resilient Woman series.

Thanks, Ashley! I am glad you decided to be apart of the series. Thank you!

So,

TWH-What is your definition of a strong woman?

My definition of a strong woman is a woman who is confident in her own skin. Someone who is driven and resilient. A woman who, no matter what life throws at her, picks herself up over and over and finds hope and strength at the other end. A strong woman, to me, stands up for what she believes in, chases her dreams fearlessly, and empowers those around her passionately.

TWH-A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

I believe a resilient woman processes many unique qualities, such as; courage, tough-mindedness, confidence, persistence. A resilient woman is a problem solver with an open mind and a creative perspective on life and all it has to offer. She believes in herself and trusts she has the strength to overcome any obstacle. She has faith in the fact that while life doesn’t always go her way, she will always rise in her tenacity.

TWH-Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action?

To me, motherhood showcases the overwhelming resilience of women the best. Not to take away from dads, because dads are just as important as moms… but, especially these days, moms are somewhat expected to hold their own careers while managing so many different aspects of the household. In many ways, while we’ve been empowered to more easily contribute to our families financially, we also haven’t relinquished the long-standing expectations to be homemakers. I, personally, don’t think this is a bad thing… simply a testament to what women are capable of. Motherhood requires a lot of persistence, determination, and resilience.

TWH-What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter?

The only two common barriers I think resilient women encounter would be, perhaps, being misjudged and taken advantage of at times. I have witnessed strong women be categorized as “bitchy” or “stuck up” or “full of themselves” when in fact, they’re just out here doing their very best and owning whatever it is they have to work with. I’ve also seen resilient women be taken advantage of due to the assumption that “they can handle it” or the fact that typically resilient women don’t shy away from obstacles or problems so others find it easy to dump the load on them.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

I think society recognizes the resilient woman today, more than ever before, but I also think, in our society as a whole, we need to continue to build each other up, appreciate our differences and varying “strengths” rather than tear each other down or constantly try to convince ourselves that everyone is the same. While we are all equals as far as our basic human rights go, we are also all very unique. I think we should find a way to treat each other with respect but also rejoice in the fact that we each have something different to offer. That being said, I appreciate the newfound “girl power” movement, if you will. I think it’s beautiful to see women feeling confident in using their voice and also seeing not only other women build each other up, but seeing men build powerful women up as well.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

Personally, my biggest example of a strong woman is my mother. She has been through so many things in her life; a less than desirable childhood being raised by a single mother with four kids, she lost one of her brothers at a young age and her other two siblings to addictions later in life. Then my dad passed away when my parents were in their 30’s leaving her with four kids to raise herself. And, more recently, went through a very toxic divorce leaving her to essentially start all over in her late 50’s. But, despite all of those things, and more, she has always risen. She amazes me with her ability to still see the good in people and the world as a whole. She is optimistic almost to an annoying degree (hehe) and one of the most reliable people I know. She consistently puts herself in other’s shoes and finds understanding in nearly every situation. My mother is courageous, hardworking, resilient and persistent. She is strong.

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

I don’t believe there are limits to being a strong woman. I think that’s one of the things that makes them strong. A strong woman sees no limits. She faces obstacles and challenges head-on without hesitation. Even with butterflies in her stomach, a strong woman will stand tall and push through things other’s may consider being limitations or may accept as impossible feats.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

If someone were to ask me how they could become a strong woman, I would say, first and foremost… fake it til ya make it 😉 I’m a firm believer in the power of mind over matter. Building a tough mind, for me, is key to being a strong woman. If you can learn to trust in your ability to remain mentally tough, you can do anything. Women are powerful beings by nature, it’s only a matter of believing in ourselves and proving to ourselves over and over that we can do anything we set our minds to.

Yes, yes. Your last point is so true.

“Women are powerful beings by nature, it’s only a matter of believing in ourselves and proving to ourselves over and over that we can do anything we set our minds to.”

I truly respect the built-in nature and recognize the power of the mind.

Well folks, hope you have been inspired from another Resilient Woman perspective. Thank you, Ashley, for being real and enlightening our minds once again.

To keep up with Ashley, follow her on the other social media connects listed below.

Twitter: @GGraphicsInc

Instagram: @GarrettGraphicsInc

Pinterest: pinterest.com/GarrettGraphics

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashleygirres

Blog: afiercemind.com

Etsy: Etsy.com/shop/garrettgraphics

Featured

The truth about being Consistent

An important character trait with benefits

Hello Friends! How are you? I hope well. This weeks post is about being consistent.

After an interesting week full of inspiration, I thought it might be a good idea to share what I learned.

You know as we journey through this life we may face a few highs and lows. Regardless, the aim should always be on the prize…whatever that is. Once we reach it, only then can we enjoy the fullness of the journey, whether easy or tough.

That being said, I had a bit of revelation as to how important it is to be consistent no matter what obstacles we face. When one is consistent in pursuing their goal a few attributes are developed along the way that makes reaching the goal less of a chore and more desirable.

These attributes can vary from person to person but at the core, there are a few key qualities that all who attain their dreams possess.

One who is Consistent will…

Develop Discipline – There is no doubt this life quality varies from person to person. It almost seems to be quite allusive too when you look out over the vast majority of folks across all job fields. The thing is, as with most life lessons it has to be learned. That may take time depending on the individual. Some learn quickly! Adapting to whatever sacrifices are necessary to achieve a dream. Others seem to toil with it from day to day, week to week, and year to year only to find out that time has slipped them by. For the one who accepts this character trait, there is an understanding there will be times of sacrifice and gut-wrenching determination to complete whatever task is necessary for achieving the goal. Sometimes sleep is compromised, early attendance is expected and/or unwanted participation is the norm.

Build Trust – If you are into social media then this is a definite quality one must accept. Trust in any relationship is important. When developed it can create a bond that no-one outside the sphere could easily break. So how is this built? I am so glad you ask. Through consistency of course. When a consistent stream of reliable information mingled with a relatable personality is shared a platform of trust is built. From there and over time will trust be given a chance to grow.

Promote a Standard – At the core of being consistent develops a Standard! This Standard is a core character trait that shows up anytime that particular person shows up. Like trust, it is established within early and then developed over time. As engagements are met, clients are mentally engaged and physically motivated a Standard begins to be made. Over time and with successes others will begin to expect value from the connection made. The value accepted will equate to a Standard of quality expected anytime information is shared.

So there you have it. These are just a few highlights on what I believe are important takeaways to being consistent. I am sure there are more. If you have additional character points please share them. I would be delighted to hear them.

To hear me share these points, connect with me on IGTV.

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To Sacrifice means to Plant Seeds

Sacrificing is not only apart of life but yields benefits too.

Hello friends! Whew! What a week! How was your week? Mine was not too bad.

I endured the heat and humidity, completed two 2-a day workout sessions, and shared quality time with a few of my employees.

This kinda exemplifies a typical day and week for me. I would like to say the highlight would be the workouts but of course, life is much more than that. Which is why I want to share how important it is to sacrifice.

As I go through each day, I realize we sacrifice more than we know. Think about it? From the time we rise and go on our way, there is some sort of sacrifice made.

If employed, one has to sacrifice their personal time for the entity that has hired them. If you have a family, then a sacrifice of time and money is expected. With all the sacrificing one may tend to lose sight that it is a good thing.

So, to put sacrifice in the right perspective I have highlighted a few guide points.

Sacrificing…

Is Apart of life-There is no easy way to break this to ya. Sacrifice is here to stay and the sooner it is accepted the better off one is. As mentioned earlier, to sacrifice is to understand that if there is anything worth having one will sacrifice something at some point. Just think about what you have now that’s worth keeping.
May not feel good at times-To put it bluntly, going for anything worth having may not feel the best while going through. For example, I have mentioned at times enduring a physical fitness workout. I enjoy workouts and what the end result can bring but the day to day and week to week routines are a sacrifice. I would love to wish for perfect health and body but reality says I have to physically put forth a sacrifice to achieve the health results desired. The sacrifice will include foregoing certain foods and snacks for a time. It may mean completing workout assignments at times when I feel lazy and unmotivated. Regardless, if I want to achieve the health results I must endure.
Sacrifice brings benefits-This is my point! HANG IN THERE! NO matter what the goal, if it is worth reaching stay in the day to day and week to week sacrifice. Sacrifices are seeds planted at some point then over time yield positive results. These could be good health numbers, an increase in pay from your employer(subscribers), a student’s success based on your tutelage, a progressively healthy patient, or even a changed-heart spouse. These are just a few examples. The point is that sacrifice does not have to be looked at in a negative sense. When viewed from this perspective one knows it is just a matter of time before a circumstance, situation, or condition changes.

There ya go! Just a few tips on sacrifice that hopefully help you make it through to your goal(s).

Of course, this is not a complete list so feel free to share your points in the comments. I would love to hear them.

To hear me chat more about this topic connect with me on Instagram. Select the IGTV menu button. Much love and success to you!

Featured

The Resilient Woman series

Courage Tenacity Persistence

Hello, again my friends! Welcome back to The Resilient Woman series. If you need to be filled in click here.

If you are reading this then you’re certainly at the right place. Here you will find encouragement to press on no matter what the circumstance. This weeks guest possesses a unique artistic flava. One that peaks your curiosity yet is quite pleasing to the eye.

Meet Lena Dee

Growing up in the Carribean, Lena comes from a small family. She has learned to face her challenges head-on and grow from them. Like many who experience life’s ups and downs, she has developed a resiliency that others will definitely relate to. Barely missing out on attending The University abroad might have opened a door to anxiety attacks and depression, but courage and a never stop pressing mindset encouraged her otherwise.

As a millennial, today she participates in life as we all do showing her might through word and her determination by accepting the challenges along the way to a Masters Degree. Read on as she shares her candid thoughts.

So Lenna…

TWH- What is your definition of a strong woman?

My idea of a strong woman is one that knows no bounds. She doesn’t take no for an answer and no matter what comes her way she does NOT give up. She possesses patience and endurance because no matter what comes her way, she doesn’t take a stumbling fall to mean she’s shattered and cannot rebuild herself. She finds strengths in her weaknesses and learns from experiences to grow.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

(I hope I answer this correctly from my understanding of the question)

I think there is no one set of qualities a strong woman possesses but several, each varying from woman to woman. Few qualities may overlap between women but in looking at a female’s strength holistically, I do not believe you can isolate qualities to say that any as a singularity defines strength. Strength is a collection of qualities that change from woman to woman. One woman’s form of strength may not be found in another. The key goal, however, is striving to succeed in life, regardless of what that means to you.

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action?

One I would say is the situation of single mothers. To the world, this is one person but to her child/children, she is the world. The odds aren’t always in the favor of single moms and to many, systems of society try to exploit their state of being alone or a sole parent as a weakness. Many times over, these moms are faced with obstacles that test their strength and capability to provide and nurture another individual. There’s no book telling you what to do but many people like to interject and tell them they’re doing it wrong. I think any single mom that puts her child or children at the top of her hierarchy and has the determination to keep pushing through for her little family is not just a resilient woman but a superhero.

TWH- What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter?

There are so many barriers resilient women face. From men telling them, they can’t perform their roles efficiently to other women judging them for their choices. Being resilient is not for the weak at heart. It doesn’t mean you will always come out on top for every battle but that you have the perseverance to keep fighting for an outcome that can lead you in the right direction to succeed. In life, there will ALWAYS be people and more “powerful” forces trying to deter you from your path to success. At the end of it all, it is your choice and willpower to generate a strong state of mind that will keep driving you forward. It is not easy, especially for those who may not have as much support as others, but where there is a will, there is a way.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

Is society trying? Yes! Can more be done? Most definitely!

I feel like to some extent society recognizes a resilient woman but there is most certainly more to be done. I mean, look at the way we’ve been taught to socialize and have a majority of social institutions not built in the favor of women isn’t helping. There is still a lot of gender bias. Many eras have passed women fighting their hearts out and dying for equality but we will never be equal to men, nor should we want to be. I think females NEED to see themselves more as the forces to be reckoned with that they really are. I think we’ve lost many battles wanting equality instead of fairness. Fairness in a society that is very in the middle about the topic of females and our resilience. Society wants change to occur for females but still isn’t fully inclined to let it happen or to provide the building blocks for the change. Right now, females have fought to the point where the conversation is changing. More of our voices are being heard, especially on social media platforms, more movements are being recognized and are more inclusive of women from different socio-economic backgrounds and religions. I think the varying concepts of what a society is, can still create a division for women. I believe unity is the key across borders but obviously, that’s easier said than done. There are still many places around the world that aren’t as mainstream as certain parts of the Western Hemisphere (i.e USA, Canada, UK etc.) where there is still a very strong patriarchy that opposes women. Where young girls are indoctrinated to feel powerless and like the inferior being. In those types of places, I think females who are brave enough to endure those constraints, build a certain resilience that isn’t recognized enough by societies. We are more powerful than we think and the day more of us can access this power mentally and internalize it, we will be unstoppable.

Lol sorry, it’s so lengthy!

TWH, not a problem at all. Your thoughts are most welcomed.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

I don’t necessarily have one person in mind but several. I think women from all backgrounds who have the strength to get up daily and face this world and to continue to claw their way through whatever comes at them, are magnificently strong. Strength can’t be accredited to one or a few but to many. Many women who get knocked down ten times over continuously but get back up eleven. Not every woman has the strength to keep fighting, many lose the battle daily and eventually the war. They may not be deceased but they become mental slaves to their circumstances or the oppression they face. The day you become mentally enslaved to someone’s false perception of you can be your darkest day yet. Until you redeem the strength to someday claw your way to the light, those shackles will not break free. With that being said, my example of strong women are the women who provide for and raise their families, the everyday woman that keeps going after what she needs to succeed and survive, the women who have been abused and tortured but fight to survive, the women that speak up on the goodness of change, and most importantly ALL females who get up daily and try.

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

In life, everything has its form of kryptonite. Everything and everyone has a breaking point but it is whether you can recover from it or not. There exist certain weaknesses that can exhaust you but nothing lasts forever right? Exactly! There comes a moment where you find your strength in that weakness that can give you the sight you need to change courses and move forward. A strong woman may encounter several breaking points in her life that eventually builds her tolerance and propels her in her journey. Some obstacles force us to see things we don’t always want to accept but eventually learn to in order to grow as a person. Sometimes you have to lose a few battles before you can win the war. A strong woman is unstoppable but does not possess perpetual invincibility.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I’d help them by sharing my experiences, I believe you should always want to be a student in the way of life but that doesn’t mean you can’t pass on the knowledge you’ve gathered. Every individual can go through different struggles but be observant and willing to learn from others can definitely help in most aspects. Your stories may differ but there should always be one vital commonality, never giving up. My best form of guidance is the advice to learn to love and believe in yourself. Self-love is not selfishness and it is more important than we think. Understanding that no one can give you strength but yourself and unlocking that power is the biggest form of personal development that will help you persevere.

Wow! Thanks, Lena for sharing your thoughts. I can see that you are definitely on a mission. Appreciate your input as always.

Thank you so much for this interview Al and having a chance to voice my opinion on such a subject matter.

Well friends, Can you feel it? Can you feel the passion within to motivate? I did! If you desire to share her passion below is where you can connect. She has a unique presence on social media in which one must definitely connect with and have in life’s tool bag of empowerment and courage.

PR email: info@lenadeexo.com

Twitter @lenadeexo

Instagram @_lenadee

Pinterest @lena_dee

Blog/website https://lenadeexo.com

Thanks so much for the read! My hope is that you have been educated and encouraged to go on. Stay tuned for the next weeks guest.

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Do you set Goals?

Past, Present, and Future Strategies help to reinforce

How important are Goals!

Hi friends! Whats up? Hope your week has gone smooth. I cannot complain.

The first of July kinda had me thinking. This is a good time to assess how important goals are and the need to have one. See, they are very much like a mission statement for a company. In the mission statement, the company shares what its overall intentions are with respect to providing its service or product.

It does not provide many details as to how the mission will be carried out. It is designed to be a clear and concise message to all, of the company’s goal within the industry or market. Also, all departments, regions, districts, and employees develop strategies to reinforce the mission.

So, one’s business goal(s) should mimic the same dynamics. Sure, you might not be as large as other companies but the principle of setting goals is universal for the progressive, goal-oriented, and task-completing entity.

Today, I will share some tips on why setting goals are important to have if you intend to progress in business or anything worth evolving.

Why are goals important?

Point out how far you have come-Goals highlight just how far you have come from the start. Depending on what strategies employed you may or may not have sold or provided much from your initial launch of the service or product. A progress report of just how far and how well your business is doing helps. When I started blogging(last Jul/August) I did not know what to expect. I just love to write and saw a platform to share thoughts. I did set a goal though to engage with 3-4 blogs weekly and to write at least a post a week. If on track, I would at least submit by the 6-month mark 26 posts and hopefully engage a following of about the same. To my surprise, I actually made both goals. So looking back, I was motivated to continue.
Establish a current position-Understanding your business’s current position is important too. Current position establishes a reference dollar or quantity amount to help set a goal. With this, one can make a sensible goal to achieve. So as mentioned in the previous point, when I started I had no previous data to build from. Actually, zero blogs with zero traffic and zero followers were the data. Lol. Using this as a launching pad was all I needed. From here I made a few initial assumptions to establish a goal.
Where to go-After a goal has been set, it has to either be met, not met, or exceeded. If it has not been met, then it must be reassessed and evaluated so a determination of what strategies can still be used or removed. So a year into my blogging experience has revealed 90 followers and 40 published post. For me, this is good but when I assess the reality of it I missed my mark by 12 on the blog post submissions but exceeded the number of followers. The data reveals to me that work still needs to be done but is certainly encouraging regardless.

My GOAL nuggets:

Don’t get confused by another’s progress and business successes
Your goals are YOUR goals. Own them and learn from them
Learn from others successes don’t be discouraged
Remember Goals equal Past Strategy, Present Strategy, Future Strategy
Seek and learn from others. (Eg. Blogging Community)
Make realistic goals

Hope this helps. Are you meeting your goals? Have you been setting goals? What golden nuggets do you suggest? I share a bit on Instagram TV too. See ya there.

Much love to you friend! Are we connected through other social media outlets? If not, I would love to connect with ya! Till next post!

Featured

The Resilient Woman series

Courage Tenacity Persistence

Hello and welcome back to this week’s posts on the Resilient Woman. I hope you have enjoyed the candid responses from the ladies who so graciously accepted doing the interview.

This weeks guest can be described in a word; Determined.

Growing up, Teika Towns was exposed to much; love, separation, trust, alcoholism, partying, and determination. Although this was the case, faith helped her to overcome paths to destruction and guide her to where she is today. Her story, for many, is a common one and another great example of an individual not allowing circumstances to defeat them in life. She has developed a caring for others approach in this life that she undoubtedly has learned from past experiences.

Take a listen as she shares a few personal points that will be sure to hit home with others.

So Teika, welcome! What are your initial thoughts?

First off, I want to say thank you for allowing me the opportunity to participate and thank you for thinking of me! When you first asked me to be involved, I wasn’t really sure of what I was going to say or even, really, what it means to be a strong or resilient woman. Most of my experience has just been based on survival. But as I had time to think and reflect, please see my answers below.

TWH-What is your definition of a strong woman?

My definition of a strong woman is a woman that is not defined by the strength of the man she may be with. A strong woman knows how to carry herself, take care of her family and take care of others. A strong woman may not always have her looks together or her appearance together, which can be misconstrued as a weakened state, however, to me, it just means that she is taking care of business and will do what is necessary to make sure the needs of her family and others are met.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

A resilient woman possesses the following qualities: loyalty: loyal to her family, loyal to her job, her church, and most of all, loyal to GOD. GOD most certainly needs to play the role in a resilient woman because He is where her strength comes from.

Trust: A resilient woman can be trusted. When she displays her loyalty, those who spend any time around her can be assured that trust is the basis of her very foundation.

Bounce back: A resilient woman bounces back. I have been in a few situations where I felt like I was going to be taken down by the situation. I was married to a man for almost 4 years and we were only together for 19 months of those 4 years. Long enough to have 2 children. I felt like he thought I was young and could run my life, and I let him do it for a while to keep what I thought was “peace”. During that time period, I let myself go for a while, but I always made sure my daughter was well dressed (I didn’t have my son until after we parted ways). My mom would always notice that my clothes would be a little tattered or I may have had stains from carrying for my daughter on them. At the time, I just didn’t care; any chance I could get, I wanted to get out of the house and away from him. But the LORD dealt kindly with me and gave me my Bounce Back! I can remember when I first left him, one of the sister’s at the church said to me, in my face, “When the LORD delivers you from Egypt, you don’t go back!” I truly believe GOD used her to tell me to only look forward!!

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action?

My experience is being a single mother. I had the best example of my own mother though. I would always say that if I could be half the woman and mother that she was and is, I would be all the better for it! I waited until my kids were almost out of high school to go to college. In all honesty, the only reason why I went back to school was because in 2007, when my manager, Pat Kendrick (MeeMaw), put in my review that I should go to school, I wanted to meet that goal and challenge for my job, and at the time that was the only reason. I started school in January 2008, and finished with my MBA in May 2014; all while working full-time, taking care of my kids and home, and meeting my responsibilities at church and for the LORD. I finally had to realize that was a door HE opened! My GPA ended up being nearly a 3.7 all while maintaining life! I’d have to say that was one of my most greatest showcases of being a resilient woman. I wanted to also be an example to my kids, and other young men and women at church that they can do ANYTHING!! I also re-married during that six-year period, which was a HUGE adjustment for me and my children, because up until my husband came along, we were all we had so to speak. Sure my parents and family and church family were there, but when it came down to the nitty-gritty, it was just me and my kids!

TWH- What barriers if any may the resilient women encounter?

Some barriers a resilient woman may face could be social and economic limits. But I believe this to be from man’s point of view. Those barriers are there, but it only goes to show that we must rely on GOD through those barriers. That’s also what makes us resilient, facing those barriers, but still believing we can succeed.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

I would have to say that society is starting to recognize the resilient woman! Look at Michelle Obama. She had to endure much in her role as FLOTUS. With all she and POTUS had to face during their tenure in the White House, I can remember in one of her speeches when she said: “When they go low, we go high!” That spoke volumes! A simple statement that poignantly says that society will try and pull a person (in many instances, women) down. And some will succumb to society, but then for the rest of us, no matter what we face, always go high!

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

My example of a strong woman, is without a doubt, my MAMA!! She is the strongest woman I know! My life sorta puddled in her footsteps with raising two children, working a full-time job, AND going to school full-time, as a single mom. If she struggled, and I know she did, she never let my sister and me see it! She was and is still my hero! If I could choose another, it would be my godmother, Tracey Posey! She too has endured so much. Not always with grace, but because of the mercy of the LORD and her persistence to want to do right by GOD. She is still a work in progress, but I appreciate the LORD for her being so candid with anyone she talks to!

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

I do not feel there are any limits to being a strong woman. It is a personal choice. I will say that strength does lie in numbers. We must surround ourselves with other strong women, but at the same time, be there for that young woman, and even older women, who are struggling. We need to use our strength to build each other up. Most times, it isn’t a man who is belittling a woman, but it is other women, belittling other women!

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I would have to say the same as #7.

Quite truthful and gut-wrenching responses Teika. Thanks so much for participating and sharing your thoughts.

Well everyone, again we have another courageous lady that quite frankly is and has handled business. Hopefully, you have not only been educated in some way but encouraged to press on. Thanks for the read!

Stay tuned for next weeks guest.

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The Resilient Woman series

Courage, Tenacity, Persistence

Hi friends! Welcome back to the “Resilient Woman” series. Glad you stopped by.

This weeks guest is Andrea Joy and boy is she an extension of her name. Andrea is such a delight to converse with that one must definitely have her in their tool bag of life. Her passion revolves around finances so who isn’t affected here. I am so grateful she participated in the series. Read on as she shares her candid thoughts on the Resilient Woman.

Andrea, tell us about yourself.

My name is Andrea Joy, and my goal with my blog www.savingjoyfully.com is to help you make more and save more money every month. My website shares some of the ways I have learned over the years to stretch my budget every month. My biggest interests are saving money, being more frugal, and learning new ways to make extra money on the side.

That is awesome! Well said. Everyone is impacted by money so it only stands to reason the need to be wise and frugal with it.

So Andrea, in today’s society when it is mentioned concerning the resilient or strong woman, to you…

TWH- What is your definition of a strong woman?

A strong woman is a woman that no matter what life throws at her she is able to rise above it. A strong woman may go through an abusive relationship, custody battle, divorce, loss of a child or spouse, loss of a job and still give it all she has each time. A strong woman must learn to recognize her feelings and accept them, but also learn to think and make choices based on what is best for her life not just based on her feelings.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

Hard working, she is willing to work through all that life throws at her and yet never give up. She is always determined to make it no matter what situation she is dealing with and is always choosing to rise above the hard times. She is honest about her feelings and about where she has come from throughout every area of her life and her relationships. She displays courage as she accepts what she has been through and often deals with the hardest things a person can ever have to deal with. Despite everything she goes through she does all of this in a way that she can share her triumphs and inspire others.

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action?

Having a family situation with my siblings who had been removed from their home and the opportunity for me to decide whether to step in and become their caregivers. I knew the girls, who were both teenagers at that time, needed my help and support. At that time there was no question in my mind what had to be done, I had to let them live with me. The situation was very hard and despite the emotional roller coaster and the family that would choose to turn on me for my choices, I knew what I had to do. I will never regret this even though it changed my own life entirely and broke all of our hearts at times throughout the process.

TWH- What barriers if any may the resilient women encounter?

People who do not understand her choices, and her struggles. Many people will hurt her along the way and yet she will always find a way to rise above the challenges and pain life throws her way. The resilient woman will have to be strong in situations that hurt very badly and often make her question her own strength. This same woman will discover what she is really made of through these choices and will continue to pursue the right path for her life with dignity and persistence.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

Society does not always recognize the resilient woman because we look just like any other woman. Women are not always seen as strong and capable of great things. Depending on the strength and courage a woman possesses in the difficult times in her life she can stand out and shine in her life as she lives this life of courage. This is how you can recognize a resilient woman, she will be the one that despite everything life throws at her she is still working towards her goals and inspiring others.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, it’s ok to share that too.

My Grandmother was always my best example of a resilient woman. She changed my entire view of women and made me the woman that I am today. She was a child who watched her mother die of a terrible illness while her father left her and her brother to raise themselves. She then moved in with her aunt and uncle who raised her and her brother until she graduated. She married young and married an abusive man and then was forced to raise her own 4 children alone for years until she met her second husband. My Grandmother was the most kind and caring woman that anyone would ever meet. My family used to say that she would give you the shirt off her back and they honestly were right. She was so loving and cared so much about others and if it were not for my Grandmother’s love in my life I would have been a very different woman today.

TWH- Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

Everyone has their limits and the strongest women usually have someone that they can talk to and confide in. They recognize that they cannot always do everything alone and they need the love and support of others in their lives. A strong woman will ask someone she can trust for help when necessary.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I would say recognize that you are strong and capable because of who you are not because of anything else. I would tell her that whatever you put your mind to, and work hard towards is possible. I would encourage her to keep believing and working towards her dreams. We all need the help of others along the way in our lives so I would encourage her to surround herself with others who support and inspire her to be the best version of herself.

Thanks so much, Andrea for participating and sharing your thoughts. It has been my pleasure to provide a platform for us all to be enlightened as to today’s strong and woman.

Well, there you have it, folks. I told you she was a delight. Stay connected with her on these social media outlets. Till next post, stay upbeat and encouraged!

Twitter https://twitter.com/savingjoyfully

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-joy-6271b115b

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/savingjoyfully/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/savingjoyfullycom-973149492832126/

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/savingjoyfully/overview/

Blog/website http://savingjoyfully.com/

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How to Stay Upbeat

The waves of life can cause you to be tossed to and fro. These tips will help smooth the ride

Howdy! How are you this week? I am good. I can’t complain.

I have learned this through life’s ups and downs to stay even-keeled. Not to get too excited or too down about any circumstance. Sure, its good to recognize the circumstance and pay some emotion to it but not to get so involved as to lose stability.

That being said I want to share with you a few tips I believe will help you stay upbeat through the waves of life. For me, these tips are likened to a stabilizer bar on a vehicle which assists the vehicle to maintain sure contact with the road. As you know, this helps keep the car on the road and handle disturbances such as potholes and other obstructions.

Just as you keep identification information on you keep these in your pocket too. Lol.

Keep in your pocket

Good friends– A good friend is a jewel that will lend an ear as well as keep you in check when needed. He or she will provide the encouragement when needed or the guidance to get you through a circumstance.
A Spiritual leader– This life is kind of a culmination of two worlds. One is the physical and the other is spiritual. The physical is what we naturally see with the eye and revolves around our five senses. The spiritual is what we cannot see with the physical eye but revolves around faith and morality. Connecting with someone who has devoted themselves to receiving and teaching these principles could be a valuable resource.
The Professional- Our society has become a world of many disciplines. Financial wizards, medical students, automobile technicians, fitness gurus, travel explorers, food creators, technology experts, and blog professionals. This being the case, one has to connect with a professional to get the scoop on how things really work in that world. Sure you can possibly do your self but eventually, time management will have to be dealt with for you to effectively promote and function.
Engagement– Socializing with others is a must in a world of others. Just think if you really wanted things to happen for you all the time where you are king or queen it would be a world of only “You” and “Lonely”. I don’t think we really want what is desired. Interacting with others is much like interacting with nature. Either is alive in its own being and rely on the air to breathe. The connection with others can actually be mentally therapeutic if mixed with a bit of humility. It can do wonders for social maturity.

Well, I hope you find these useful. They are not a complete do it all list but tips that may help you in a pinch.

Much love to you and success in all you do. For more useful life encouraging tips and ideas connect with me on Instagram TV and Pinterest. I would love your company.

Credits: Pixabay Images

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Why I Love Restaurants

Going to a good dining place could be good for your attitude. My experience was enlightening.

Why restaurants are cool spots.

I love going out to restaurants! Why? Well, not only because of the food offered but the atmosphere too.

For me, restaurants offer three things I value. Food, casual atmosphere and a break from daily responsibilities.

The food offered is definitely a plus for any restaurant. This may seem like an obvious thought but I have been to places that have not offered a tasty array of entrees. There is nothing like going to a dining place to order a steak or pork chop that is not flavorful. It will leave a definite unfavorable imprint.

I love all kinds of food too. Although I’m based in America I do love the taste of Italian and French cuisines. Because I like to eat, I feel it is my duty to credit each respective cultures entrees and gorge…Oops, I mean sensibly try them. Lol.

In addition to the food, I love a restaurants dining experience too. I feel that with all the potential stress life could present it only stands to reason the need to have places help to divert such pressures. For me, they are a cool place to meet and build new friends.

Today, some places offer more than just seats for dining. Many offer TV’s for viewing and even the options for gaming. This in itself can add to an upbeat experience if that is what you are particularly into. I personally love them all and try to get the most out of what is offered.

Lastly, dining places provide an atmosphere that takes your mind away from the stresses of life we encounter. At least for me. Although there are other forms of stress relief, I favor dining out a lot.

I do utilize other forms of stress relief such as shopping, resistance, and cardio training, playing board games, reading an interesting book, watching a good comedy or thriller movie, and of course writing for my blog.

So now you know the reasoning behind why I love to eat out at restaurants! My guess is that you love to eat out at restaurants too. If so, what are your reasons? I would be glad to know.

The Resilient Woman series

Courage, Tenacity, Persistence

Hello Friends! Glad your back!

If you have not tuned in lately, I’d say you’ve missed some valuable information pertaining to the theme “The Resilient Woman“. But don’t fret, there is still time to catch up! The guests have been simply exceptional. All have provided varying life perspectives yet reinforce the fact that courage, tenacity, and persistence are in the Resilient Woman’s DNA.

This weeks’ guest is Tanethia Holden.

Tanethia is a true warrior and this is no lie. Tanethia is an army veteran who has endured her fair share of life trials. She is an unwed mother to her daughter who has embraced the courage to face anything that may rise against her success. Her current job as a Registered Nurse in an ICU embodies the mindset of one who is a quick decision maker and displays a never give up attitude. Read on and receive her thoughts on “The Resilient Woman”

So, Tanethia…

TWH- What is your definition of a strong woman?

A strong woman has learned how to play off of her strengths and leverage her weaknesses.

TWH- A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

I think love makes us resilient. When a woman learns how to truly love herself, she won’t succumb to the pain this world has to offer. Love is very transformative. When I started reading up on self-love and seeing images of women who talked about self-care and love, I started to move and think differently about myself.

I have always considered myself as being resilient because of my flexible nature. I try to be receptive to new ways of thinking and perception. If you’re rigid in your ways and frame of thought, how can you be resilient when there will be a time for a change in your life?

So essentially, love and flexibility are a couple of qualities that a resilient woman possesses.

TWH- Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action?

If any woman has had a child or children, by nature, she transforms to be the woman she needs to be for her kids. If a woman has ever had her heart broken, she still finds the will to hope for the type of love she is deserving of.

TWH- What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter?

Sometimes we get beat down with life (work, raising kids, mental/physical/sexual abuse), and it can become difficult for a woman to see the forest from the trees.

TWH- Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

For instance, the Me Too movement has opened the doors for women who felt they didn’t have a voice when egregious things have happened to them. Society doesn’t really recognize a resilient woman. But it doesn’t even fucking matter because we as women are making things happen whether men or society want to acknowledge us or not.

TWH- Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

I look over my life and see the woman I am becoming and always have been. I look at myself as an example. I don’t know of anyone else’s journey as intimately as I know my own. My grandma is another example. She suffered a stroke and has been in a nursing home for the past several years. I don’t know how she does it, but she speaks as though she is walking and living a full life. She lives in the hope of doing more extraordinary things.

TWH– Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

I think a woman is a fool if she thinks being strong all day long, 24/7/365 is the business. Being strong all the time is a limitation in itself. It takes me back to my earlier point about a resilient woman knowing how to leverage her weaknesses. That’s why it’s essential to at least have good, reliable people in your life to help you get through life’s up and downs.

TWH- If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

I always lend an encouraging word. Or I would be frank about my evaluation of a situation if my sister-friend needed advice. I will provide the support that she would need. My support would be loving but limited because I vowed not to be strong for others for the sake of my sanity and mental health.

Tanethia, thanks so much for participating and sharing your thoughts on “The Resilient Woman”

Well, I told you, folks. Her thoughts are definitely energizing and should provoke you to handle business as you originally planned. Don’t hold back but press and go after it!

Tanethia is quite active on social media too. Connect with her weekly to be inspired.

Tanethia Holden- Social media information below

Twitter: www.twitter.com/OMG_its_misst/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladytanethia/

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/tanethia/

Blog/website: queendomreigns.com

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My Trip South

Every trip should be Fun, Educational, Relaxing, and Spontaneous

Hi friends! Hope all is well. I’m excited! Excited to share with you my trip south. You ask, where did I go? We’ll let me tell ya!

But before I do, let me share this with you.

From now on, I am going to focus on four sort of guidelines to help me determine where and how I spend my trips (vacations) away from home.

They have to be Fun, Educational, Relaxing and Spontaneous.

Which is to say, will it have a fun element to it, will I come out knowing a bit more of the experience when it’s over, will I be able to relax at some point, and finally will it have a bit of spontaneity?

I came up with this after my last trip. It was freakn enjoyable.

As you would think, I started out with the usual plan of deciding where to go and why. I am kind of a history nerd so it was not too hard to decide on a few historical sights to lock in. In recent years this historical curiosity has energized me, even more, to plan my extended absences away from home in locations of historical significance.

So I decided to go south!

I traveled to the southern State of Tennessee and explored a Civil War Battle site which was a strategic lookout point for any army trying to keep an eye out for the enemy. This was amazing!

From there I traveled over to the next State of Georgia with plans to watch an old past time of America…baseball.

The nice thing about this was experiencing the great seats and the team’s new stadium. While there, I also traveled to that States oldest city…Savannah. Here, I viewed many of that city’s oldest landmarks and explored the African American rich history to which I was extremely enlightened to the impact in that region.

Next, it was on to the next State of South Carolina visiting a city well known in American history for its Civil War stance, its architecture, and its pivotal position regarding slavery…Charleston.

The time spent was definitely enlightening and jaw-dropping, to say the least.

Finally, heading back North, I ended up at the beach for a day to soak in a few salty waves and then travel back home.

The trip away from home encompassed all my personal request; learning more than when I arrived, enjoying a bit of relaxation, having an enjoyable time, and thinking of where to go on the fly. It was simply enjoyable.

During the entire trip, I really enjoyed the idea of traveling, the sight-seeing, the food, the architecture, the weather, and many other nuances.

So, if you do get a chance to travel away from home on an extended basis, definitely keep these tips in mind.

I’m curious though? If you are a traveler what tips do you suggest?

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for upcoming posts that highlight the details of each respective sight visited.

Credits: Giphy

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The Resilient Woman

In her DNA is Courage Tenacity Persistence

Hello Friends! Continuing on with the theme “The Resilient Woman”, this weeks’ interview is from one of your sweetest travel bloggers, Dianna Allen.

The previous post, highlights the reason behind the theme and its intentions.

Dianna has had her share of tough circumstances. Growing up, she encountered bouts of racism in addition to handling a tough home life. Through it all, she has learned to be gentle but tough skinned when necessary. Overcoming these challenges has also helped her to see the world differently by not being afraid to accept responsibilities and clearly handling business in life when necessary. Dianna likes to have fun, loves to travel and always encourages a smile.

So Dianna,

TWH-What is your definition of a strong woman?

Dianna-To me, a strong woman means fearless and determined. Strength comes in the form of overcoming hardships and not being afraid to do what must be done is required. Because of this, being determined comes naturally when you’re fearless.

TWH-A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain.

Dianna-Being resilient means that you are not affected by the negative. Holding your head high every day and keeping a positive attitude is key when it seems like your world is falling apart.

TWH-Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the Resilient women in action?

Dianna-I can name quite a couple just from my own life. I’ll start with when I was 18. I actually was living in a tough household, I won’t get into too many details, but for my own mental health, I needed out. I didn’t know how to live on my own at the time, but I made it work. I balanced college and working full-time to ensure I was still able to create the best life for me. Even though those years were tough, in the end, I made the right decision. And not only did I save myself, but I also saved relationships with my family because of my actions.

On a smaller scale, I remember times I’ve been faced with racism. Being part Asian and a woman, I’ve received my fair share of racial and woman jokes. My resilience in these situations has always been to not let rude remarks affect me, however, do not allow it to be tolerated either. If it’s uncalled for, I let that be known and walk away from the situation. Trust me, you should never surround yourself with negativity. You can always walk away.

TWH-What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter?

Dianna-Doubt. People will doubt you, it’s inevitable. Don’t take it personally. Instead, see it as an invitation to prove them wrong!

TWH-Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how?

Dianna-Society is definitely recognizing resilient women across the world! Let’s talk about current events and look at Meghan Markle, for example. That is a woman who has defied many odds through her life. From re-directing her character roles from being over-sexualized to actually respected personas and of course, how she has married into the British Royal Family as an American.

This day in age has been all about women. They are more empowered and respected than ever, and they are making sure their voices get heard.

TWH-Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too.

Dianna-For me, a strong woman is, of course, my mother. For reasons that are similar to me. When she was 23, she left her home in the Philippines and immigrated to America. An accomplishment that no one else in her large family had ever done. If that’s not fearless, then I don’t know what is! I’ve been traveling for many months now, mostly in Asia, and seeing the world she came from has truly opened my eyes to how courageous she chose to live her life.

She’s also strong because now she has to deal with missing me on the other side of the world. 😉

TWH-Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman?

Dianna-None. Never.

TWH-If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them?

Dianna-Don’t ever let someone tell you can’t do something. And in those times where you feel like you can’t do something, do not let it discourage you. Do not give up.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Harry Potter and ever since I heard it, I always think about it when times seem rough. Maybe it will help out the next person who hears it as well:

“Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light.”

Thanks so much for participating and sharing your thoughts on “The Resilient Woman” Dianna.

There you have it, friends! Another unique perspective. Please show some love for Dianna. If you need the motivation to travel, Dianna can share a tip or two.

Dianna’s contact and social media information:

Twitter https://www.twitter.com/outglobing/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/diannamallen/

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/diannamallen

Blog/website https://www.outglobing.com

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The Resilient Woman

Courage Tenacity and Persistence

The Resilient Woman

Hello friends! Welcome back to my blog site called The Watering W(h)ole. Half the year is almost past and I have been thinking of another topic I believe warrants our attention. Courage, tenacity, and persistence have been the underlying thought of this next theme I want to share with you all.

Now, I have not totally abandoned my regularly shared health and wellness posts highlighting my transition to a healthier lifestyle but will revisit once this segment is complete.

So what is it that you are describing? Before I so boldly share in depth with you the theme, let me kinda describe to you my motivation. Over the years I have often wondered about the topic concerning what it means to be a strong woman? Viewing strictly from an open mind I could only make a response based on observing how my mother handled life.

Life for her was in the baby boomer age and involved raising two boys alone. I could only tell you that we always had a roof over our head, clothes on our back and food to eat. This was all I saw on the surface but never knew the depth of what she really had to endure. Being a woman of color, she undoubtedly had to endure social and economic barriers.

Thankfully she never let those challenges discourage her from pressing on to provide for her family.

That being said, she has been the inspiration behind the segment “The Resilient Woman”

I am in no way an expert on who or what encompasses a Resilient Woman so I have to ask for help. I have requested input on the topic from several women. The women come from various ethnic backgrounds, economic status, and age groups. Through a series of interview questions, each will share their perspective on what encompasses the Resilient Woman.

My hope is that we all are better educated and well informed on the Strong and Resilient woman.

My first guest is originally from Canada but now resides in the United States.

Meet Heather Spindler.

Heather is the oldest of three sisters who has trooped through life successfully. Other than dealing with personal challenges, she has progressed as an example to her younger siblings, by pursuing higher education at the college “The Ohio State University”. After graduating she was hired on full time as a pre-certification representative and has progressed to the current position as manager. In her spare time, she enjoys bike riding and walks in the park.

Heather,

What is your definition of a strong woman? My definition of a strong woman is one that is able to take care of herself and those around her (depending on her life situation), while also being able to identify when she needs to ask for help or get assistance. She is also one who continues to learn new things and is willing to teach others the strengths that she possesses.
A resilient woman possesses these qualities. Explain. Determination, flexibility and a willingness to step out of her comfort zone. I am a firm believer that if you stay in your comfort zone, you will miss out on experiencing new things and learning new skills. Having said that, if you aren’t able to be flexible in situations, you will find yourself stuck in a rut or put in a box by those that you know. Finally, a determination will help you attain goals that you have set for yourself and might be the one thing that gets you through a hard situation. Stick with it – you will see results!
Could you name a few situations that highlight or showcase the resilient women in action? I admire women who have been single parents and successfully raise their children to be successful citizens. There is so much we don’t know that she has encountered and overcome. I also see successful women in the workplace. Ones that have not only become valuable employees but have mentored others to follow their lead. I have the privilege of working for such a woman. She is constantly learning new skills but takes the time to teach those things to those that work under her. She makes us better employees.
What barriers if any may a resilient woman encounter? I feel that sometimes a resilient woman may be looked at as being too strong or independent. The skills that allow her to meet the needs of her life could seem to others are standoffish or as if she doesn’t need anyone. Nothing could be further than the truth – we all need those around us.
Is society recognizing the resilient women today and if so how? I think that society is starting to recognize these women, but there is still room for improvement. I think it is the responsibility of each of us to find these women and honor them. Mentoring is so important and what better way could we honor those that we have learned from than to pass that legacy on to others?
Who is your example of a strong woman? If more, its ok to share that too. My grandmother was one of the most resilient women I know. Early in her married life, her husband and young son passed away, leaving her to raise two children on her own. She was a proud woman, but knew when she needed help and sought out that help. Although she did not have much herself, she met the needs of her children and those around her that were worse off than she was. She had a deep faith in God and brought up her children to honor God. I know that some of the qualities that I possess are a direct result of what I learned from her. She was willing to pass along those life lessons she learned to her children and grandchildren.
Do you feel there are limits to being a strong woman? I think that sometimes others put qualities onto a strong woman that may not be true. They may think that when she is determined or stepping out on her own that she is unwilling to learn from others or has a “know it all” attitude. Or that because she is strong she can’t also be vulnerable or feeling. It’s so important that you get to know her, to know what is important to her or what she may need.
If you could help guide someone to being a strong woman how would you help them? I would encourage one to find a woman that personifies the qualities that you find important and be willing to learn from them. You have to be willing to hear that a decision that you made might not have been the right one, but what is important is how you respond to those situations. Know that you aren’t going to get it right every time, but learning from those situations will help you in your future decisions and how you respond can be so important.

Thank you, Heather, for participating and sharing your thoughts on the Resilient Woman.

Heather is active on social media too. She can found on

Twitter: www.Twitter.com/hlsgobucks/

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/hlspindler/

Stay tuned for next weeks guest.

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Strawberries The Heart-shaped fruit

Strawberries are a nice addition to any lunch as a snack. Their claim to fame is being high in Vitamin C.

Hello there! Glad you found me. If you have, then let me fill you in.

If you have not followed me then here is the scoop. Last year I decided to make a change. A life change that directly impacted my health.

I decided to change for the better by eating healthier and getting into better physical condition. So far so good and I am excited! Excited that I made up my mind to eat healthier and take care of my well being.

Why?

Well, to feel better, live longer, and enjoy the rest of this life I have been gifted with. If you feel the same way then you definitely know the feeling.

In this process, I have accepted a better eating plan and fitness regimen that encourages healthy eating, increased energy, and improved stamina. My eating plan includes lean meats, potent vegetables, and tasty fruits. The posts I share are about my journey with better eating. In them, I highlight a few of the foods I have included in my daily eating plan.

In this posts, I share how including strawberries in your diet help to fight against cardiovascular disease and encourage good blood flow.

Strawberries are a nice addition to any lunch as a snack. Their claim to fame is being high in Vitamin C. You would not think of it as compared to an orange but strawberries are a worthy proponent of being high in Vitamin C., In fact, eating about a serving of strawberries (about 8) provides more Vitamin C than what an orange provides. This is good to know as this offers a bit of variety for us especially if you do not care for oranges.

The first clue that strawberries encourage good heart health is the fact that they are shaped much like a heart. Who knew!

Strawberries possess a unique variety of compounds that help lessen the formation of whats called excessive platelet aggregation(coagulation). This, in short, is the ability of the body to naturally form clots which is a healthy function; Especially with an injury. But there is an unhealthy condition that causes overactive clotting and this could potentially lead to a more serious issue when in conjunction with cancers and certain blood diseases.

Strawberries complex mix of polyphenols also make it a serious anti-oxidant competitor and a great anti-inflammatory agent. The anti-inflammatory properties assist with allowing more blood flow through veins and arteries which ultimately leads to sufficient oxygen and nutrients being delivered throughout the body.

Strawberries are a low fat zero trans fat product with a decent amount of fiber which is a potent combination for weight loss management. They are composed of about 91% water which can aid in digestion.

One of the best healthy points of including strawberries in your diet is it has one of the best Glycemic index numbers around. Compared to many fresh fruits such as apricots, bananas, watermelon, cantaloupe, or pineapple, strawberries have a number of 40. This is great! Especially for combating blood sugar spikes and the regulation of insulin.

Strawberries can be consumed a variety ways.

Strawberries can be included in smoothies
As a dessert topping on cakes, pies, ice-cream
Sliced atop your favorite pancakes or waffle
Sliced topping on your favorite meat dish
Slivered in salads
In your favorite pie
Wrapped in vegetable or fruit wrap
Made into a bread
Jellied and canned
Made into a strawberry mousse
Added to your favorite cereal

So including Strawberries in your daily food consumption can be a definite healthy choice. Maybe you are a regular with including this fruit in your diet or maybe not so much. Whatever the case I hope this finds you well and encourages you to at least begin a regimen to include.

Disclaimer:

Many thanks to those sites who provided information to encourage this post. This post was written with the intent to encourage and enlighten one to the benefits of strawberries with regards to eating healthy. I have no professional license, certificate or degree in nutrition or dietary matters.

Credits: Giphy, Google images, Associated links

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Cauliflower-a formidable weight-loss agent

Cauliflower, that formidable weight-loss agent is a must to include in any meal plan. Have you tried?

How are you, friends? Hope you are doing good. I am well!

As a recap, for the last couple of post, I have presented information about my journey. My health and fitness journey.

Here, you will see that I’ve shared a few nuggets on why I changed my eating habits and adopted a structured physical fitness plan. If you search for my blog entitled “So why the change” I go into some depth as to why. Check it out here!

Cauliflower pronounced Cau·li·flow·er is a vegetable that is a member of the cruciferous family that includes broccoli, cabbage, kale, turnips, and host of others. It is white in color and develops as a combination of compacted florets(curd) as compared to broccoli.

Nutritionally, cauliflower comes as a surprise boasting a serious stat sheet. Normally, it is accepted that color in any fruit or vegetable signifies that item as being a definite producer in the fight against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and aging. Cauliflower is the exception.

Its stat sheet shows it to be high in Vitamin C, K, and Manganese. It is a serious producer of Folate and fiber too while being high in antioxidants and phytochemicals.

What makes Cauliflower different from its close sister broccoli is the fact that it contains sulfur-based compounds called Glucosinolates. There are a few and more in-depth study of them is ongoing. So far, these compounds are being regarded as formidable agents in the supporting good health.

Here’s what it brings to the game:

Regulates Blood Cholesterol-Studies show that cauliflower helps to regulate cholesterol levels by binding cholesterol bile acids to pass into the intestines. Processed foods lack many of the essential properties that help to activate this.
Improves digestion–Studies show that sulforaphane found in the glucosinolates within cauliflower helps to remove the harmful bacteria within the stomach walls. This ultimately leads to improved digestion within the digestion tract. In addition, the fiber assists with more bulkier and softer stools as compared to watery or hard ones.
Anti-cancer agent-In short, the Sulforaphane compounds released from the consumption of Cauliflower release additional compounds that assist with the binding away of cancer-causing agents. The properties help to control the harmful free radicals associated with degenerative diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory helper-Cauliflower has Omega 3 fatty acids and a healthy amount of Vitamin C which help to inhibit an enzyme responsible for inflammation. It also has a few powerful anti-oxidants to boast. Cinnamic acid, ferulic acid, and quercetin are just a few to name that help to keep inflammation at bay. This ultimately leads to better circulation of blood and air passages.
Aids in weight loss-Cauliflower is low in calories, low in sugar and high in fiber which makes for a nice combination to help one feel full. Definitely, need to add in any weight loss plan.

So what are the ways to consume Cauliflower:

Sprinkled in and over salads
Minced and stir-fried lightly-add in a dish of your choice.
Pulverized in a Smoothie.
Minced or quartered in a soup of your choice. The vegetable is my favorite.
Add on a vegetable tray
Hummus Dip
Casseroles-all varieties

So there you have it! If you have not included this vegetable into your meal plan shame on you. This is definitely a go-to vegetable. Unless under doctors orders you have other instructions.

I know, I know! Its white, dry looking and admittedly not that appealing. I had to get over that too. It’s not that bad, though. Lol.

This is how I look at it. When I went through my change, of course, I had to change the way I thought. I had to reprogram the way I perceived eating ALL foods. So, I had to refocus on the nutritional benefits as opposed to the appearance. The taste buds could be manipulated. Haha!

Now, I will try almost anything.

If you fall into this, try your hand at expanding your food sources. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Cauliflower is a great addition to any meal plan. It is loaded with phytochemicals and antioxidants that help with everything from encouraging proper digestion in the gut area to encouraging good vascular circulation. Today, with the foods being processed and losing much of the anti-inflammatory properties, including Cauliflower into your meal plan is definitely a plus.

Thanks for reading and stay tuned! Next, we’ll look into how asparagus stacks up on the meal squad.

Did you miss last posts notes on how Arugula may help in maintaining strong bones?

Credits: Google Images, Associated links.

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Arugula-the other green leaves

Arugula, the other green leaf is packed with beneficial nutrients. Include in your next spring mix salad.

Hello Friends! How are you? Hope all is well.

As promised, let’s continue on with sharing a few of the healthy foods I have adopted into my health and wellness plan.

If you need to catch up just do a search for “Why the Change” and you will quickly find my motivation for launching on this path of renewed health and wellness.

Staying consistent with the fruit and nutrient-packed vegetables that I now include on a regular basis, I introduce Arugula. pronounced [uh-roo-guh-luh].

Arugula is a green leafy vegetable that is apart of the Brassica family of cruciferous vegetables. It is in the family of vegetables that is likened to broccoli, bok choy, cabbage, kale, and Swiss chard.

It is a vegetable loaded with plenty of vitamins and minerals. Vitamins include Vitamin A, K, and C. The minerals include Folate acid, potassium, Manganese, Iron, and Calcium.

Here is the breakdown nutritionally:

So what health benefits do you receive from eating Arugula?

Weight Loss-since it is nutrient packed with minerals, vitamins and very low in calories, Arugula will meet ones nutritional and satiation needs. No need of feeling like your missing out on meeting those nutritional goals.
Improves eyesight-Arugula being a good source of carotenoids, may help in improving eyesight. Carotenoids have been accepted as being agents for improving eyesight. Arugula is loaded with them. It is considered to be a positive agent against macular degeneration, an age-related condition involving the deterioration of parts of the eye.
Boost Immune system-Vitamin C is abundant in Arugula. It is linked to helping fight against the free radicals within the body. This can lead to helping support your immune system.
Encourages heart health-Vegetables that are high in low calories and anti-inflammatory properties tend to be very good agents for protecting the heart. The anti-inflammatory properties encourage proper circulatory flow and consistent heart rhythms.
Promotes Bone Health-In short, Arugula is a great source of vitamin K which is essential to maintaining strong bones. In some circles, it is a close second to Calcium.

Here are a few ideas on consuming Arugula

In salads mixed with other types of greens.
Used in soups to give it a healthy kick.
Sprinkled atop Sandwiches to boost nutrition count.
Spotted on (vegan style)pizzas. Yes, you have to try it.
Pulverized in fruit and vegetable smoothies.
Added as an edible side piece to vegetable dip trays.

I have tried it in all meal prep situations. My favorite is on sandwiches. I usually add a bit of herbs to give it a kick too. If you have included Arugula in your meal plan, excellent! It is a great addition. If you have not, then the opportunity is here. I would recommend it.

I definitely believe we are what we eat. If we consume high calorie, high fat, low fiber, empty calorie food the body will respond over time lethargically. On the contrast, if low fat, high fiber, nutrient dense foods are consumed the body will respond over time with vibrancy.

Hope you enjoyed!

Thanks for reading and connecting.

Courtesy: Google photos and associated links.

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Stress? Fight or Flight Part II

Did you know that outside of relationships there are quite a few reasons to be stressed?

Hi everyone! Glad you stayed tuned.

Well, let’s get to it. For a recap, we discovered stress to be associated with that fight or fight feeling that one gets in a situation that seems unanswerable. Stress can also affect any and everyone.

Did you know that outside of relationships there are quite a few reasons to be stressed? In fact, according to the American Psychology Association, a study from 2007 to 2010 revealed money, work, the economy, and family responsibilities to be leading causes of stress.

Respondents point out that the pressures of responsibility in the workplace contribute to increased stress to meet deadlines. What’s interesting is in 2007 74% were affected as compared to a 5 to 6 percent drop over the next couple of years. Curiosity led me to find out that during the 2007 year in the U.S. there was a major housing bubble event. The stress connected with not having a home could be overwhelming.

Respondents also claimed earning money as the second reason stress is prevalent. Perhaps this is because of a combination of contributing factors stemming from either overindulgent personal desires or overall economics.

What are the symptoms of stress? As there are many causes of stress, there are quite a few symptoms that one may exhibit.

A lack of interest could be noticed in a person who customarily is involved. On the other hand, lack of appetite could be an obvious one. Especially when you know the person is quite fond of eating. Some individuals may experience common symptoms of having a headache or exhibiting fatigue. The attached survey highlights a few others of what percentage respondents experienced from the years 2007-2010.

So what are the long-term effects of stress if not managed? Well, the effects range from behavioral and physical.

Behavioral effects could range from one being depressed to serious anxiety attacks.

Stress if not managed properly could affect eating habits that lead to obesity. In some, sexual performance problems could be evident. Other extended issues might be related to skin, hair, intestinal, and menstrual.

So what can be done to help manage stress? Well, let’s see.

Support from loved ones-those close by(friends too) can be pillars in the time of stress offering mental, physical, and monetary support
Regular exercise-physical exercises can be a great way to take your focus off of stressful circumstance. Physical activity causes you to redirect your energies to whatever the task is at hand; Basketball, Pool, swimming, running, resistance training, or yoga.
Meditation-spending time just relaxing(quiet time) and mentally redirecting energies is a great way to reset your mind.
Listening to Music-Music is an ultimate mood changer. Music melodies have a way of soothing or energizing the mind. This can be an enjoyable way to be mentally massaged.
Reading-reading is a sure fire way to redirect your focus. In order to understand what you’re reading your mind has to be in the game.

So, there you go. Not a complete list but hopefully a decent informational teaser regarding stress.

Stress is definitely real and no laughing matter. With more expected out of an individual today in practically the same amount of hours in the day, one can feel overwhelmed. Stats show that situations have affected everyone across the globe, so adopting stress managing techniques will be a must.

Recapping, we found out that stress is that Fight or Flight feeling one gets when in a pressure type situation. Stress can affect anyone. It does not matter regarding gender, age, nationality, or status in life. We discussed some of the symptoms related to being stressful and the potential causes. It was revealed that stress, if not managed, can affect one mentally and have physical effects. Finally, incorporating stress management tools will help to relieve or even eradicate the impact of stress in one’s life.

Glad you were able to tune in. Thanks for reading. With every post, I learn a little bit more and love sharing to encourage. Hope you were enlightened.

Stay tuned for the next post.

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Happy Valentines Day 2018

Hey fellas! Its Valentine’s day! Of course, I say this jokingly, hoping you have that special lady to share this time.

I write this with the intention of motivating, encouraging or even reminding guys everywhere of the opportunity to show your lady that she is special. There is even a chance you can score points if you have been in the doghouse or on the edge of being in the game.

Let me first note that Valentine’s Day should not be the only day we make a move to express love to a lady. It should be a day as all other days if we are sincere and have shown affection occasionally. This means everyday love should be expressed in a way that she ultimately knows that she is loved. Whether you periodically send flowers or post sticky love notes she should always know she is the center of your love. Even if there was not a Valentine’s Day. Sadly, Valentine’s Day is just that. A reminder to show some form of affection to that special person.

So to help us out guys, I have put together a reminder checklist to guide us away from the dreadful dog house.

Remember to periodically express occasionally before Valentine’s Day:

Show affection daily; maybe a passionate hug, kiss on the ear, or sensual touch.
Listen intently to her.
Periodically take her out to dinner; not just on Valentine’s Day.
Make her laugh; tell those corny jokes!
Comment positively on her features.
Occasionally take her out; anywhere. Concert, play, park
Send freaky text from time to time
Play games with her; card, video, or game board style
Go away on a romantic vacation somewhere.
Send flowers periodically.
Pay for her to be pampered; hair done, manicure, pedicure.
Mail an affectionate card.
Rub her feet from time to time.
Make her bath water.
Surprise her with a makeup kit

Then when Valentines Day does arrive do

Any of the above

This will result in her knowing she is loved on a daily basis as opposed to thinking it takes a special day. Of course, I have only noted a few points to keep the romance brewing, so if there are others certainly include and share in the comments section.

So, if you are that guy who expresses affection quite frequently, good for you. If you are a guy who does not, then I offer these pointers as a way to turn it around. Much Love to you all.

Happy Valentines 2018 everyone! Hope your day goes as expected.

Stay tuned for the next post.

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Stress! That Fight or Flight Feeling

All is well here but as usual, I’ve been thinking. Thinking about stress and how it impacts one’s life.

Hi friends! Hope all is well. Missed a week or two of posts. But I’m back at it! Thanks for posting in.

All is well here but as usual, I’ve been thinking. Thinking about stress and how it impacts one’s life.

I, like many, have had to deal with stress at some point. Whether personal or business stress can affect anyone. Just recently a business related issue concerning an employee invited stress into my environment where there was a chance for me to be affected but with proper stress normalizing measures I did not allow it to fester. In this case, its effect was minimized pretty quickly.

There are many folks who encounter stress at some point and have had to endure for a much longer time. This is why I decided to share a bit about what it is and how it can affect one physically and mentally. In the next few post I will share what stress is, who is affected by stress, when can stress surface, what are the contributors to stress, what are the long-term side effects of stress, and how does stress affect one. Afterwards, I will present options that may help overcome stress.

Let me first start off and say that I am not a doctor of any sorts but a living example on a journey sharing my story.

First, what is stress? Well, it is kinda the feeling you get when your heart races, your blood pressure elevates, your breathing quickens, and your muscles tighten. This feeling is commonly referred to as the “Fight or Flight” and you may or may not encounter this depending on your level of stress endurance. This fight or fight feeling varies from one person to another.

For the one person missing a paycheck may cause them to panic while for another it is viewed as just another aspect of that particular work environment. In another instance, adding another project with a deadline can possibly invite panic to the one employee but for the other employee, it can be viewed as just another opportunity to tackle a challenge. Stress can also, undoubtedly affect anyone.

Stress has affected children, teens, adults, men, women, young and older persons. Its effect can surface in various ways in all too. For instance, someone who normally is outgoing could begin to be a bit reserved. This can happen across race, gender, or age.

The graphs show that stress appears to affect all age groups and gender. In some way, that fight or flight feeling impacts the mind and does not discriminate. In another instance, one who generally handles seemingly small situations could suddenly begin to be bothered and moody.

Trends show that stress is a very real problem that even touches down to the core of the family affecting children. In this case, children like adults are affected in varying ways that can result in the child being reserved, quiet, non-playful, sad, or even frustrated.

In this post, I have sorta laid the basis for what stress is, what the symptoms of stress are, and who is affected by stress. In the next post, I will focus on what the causes of stress are, the mental and physical impact of stress and what the long-term effects on an individual that does not overcome.

Stay tuned friends!

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What’s In your tool bag?

So what’s in your tool bag. You know, just as a mechanic…

Hello friends! Glad to have you back.

So what’s in your tool bag. You know, just as a mechanic has a variety of tools in his tool bag to handle the jobs of working on a vehicle. Each tool is designed for a specific purpose and function. Sometimes the tools are used in the same time frame in order to tackle a specific job. Other times only one tool is used.

So, I ask again, what’s in your tool bag that helps you manage to navigate through life’s hurdles. Listed below are a few life tools that I believe are a must for anyone who needs to endure and overcome.

It is important to note that these tools can be used for any aspect of life where challenges may be encountered. Just as a mechanic can use his tools on just about any make and model vehicle, life’s tools can be too.

So shall we look into this tool bag? Let’s see what we have here.

Laughter-Accepting laughter in your life will make a world of difference. Life can bring serious challenges sometimes that can take a physical toll on an individual. In this case, there needs to be an outlet. Some use drugs. Others use alcohol. A few try laughter. Laughter can offer great benefits. Studies show that when one laughs there are endorphins released that help one feel good and ultimately shift your focus off of whats stressful. The act of laughter helps one to keep their focus off of the circumstance and on the enjoyment of what makes him laugh. Who knew? Besides this, laughter is free and doesn’t cost anything. The only investment is the willingness of the individual to physically relax and mentally open up to receiving. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2008/jul/06/healthandwellbeing4
Faith-Faith is kinda like the milk added to a recipe for a cake. It helps to blend all the ingredients. You need faith in just about anything that is done. It is so interwoven that some things we handle in life are just accepted and not seen as faith in action. For example, it is assumed that after going to sleep one will wake up the next day. Do you just expect to wake? If you are in good health you may not think of this much, but if sickly the thought of not waking may enter frequently. What about venturing out to start a business. Does one just go for it? Or is one apprehensive? Either way, faith is still there. For the one, it is great for the other not so great. The point here is that at the core one must believe in order to give, get, or advance. What’s your choice?
Doubt-The opposite of faith is doubt or unbelief. Unlike just giving up and accepting doubt wholeheartedly, there is healthy doubt. Let’s say you want to make a significant purchase that directly affects your household and has the potential to affect the cash flow. The purchase at first, may appear daunting and lead to doubt but when diligence is spent investigating every option a way may be seen that was not seen before. This is healthy doubt in action. Some may call it caution. In the end, pointed and diligent time is spent leading to an informed decision instead of a guess.
Love-Love is essential in any toolbox of life. Love can be likened to that go-to tool which is always used. When there is a tough job this tool will always be used at some point. In life, love will face and deal with many of the selfish vibes encountered. Love helps a mother endure the entanglements of drugs she witnesses her child caught in. Love also causes that person to speak up and offer constructive words of encouragement when a friend is observed making decisions that will ultimately lead them to destroy themselves. If there is a definite go-to tool Love is that tool.
Peace-Peace has to definitely be apart of the tool bag. Just imagine going to a library where there is a constant noise. One would find it difficult to concentrate and study on the topic at hand. Peace is that tool which helps to bring a bit of sanity to a situation. Embracing this characteristic will allow for all issues to be addressed without any noise. Professional teams address the issue of noise. Team members are trained to perform with one goal in mind; that of performing to reach the ultimate goal. So, if a team member introduces issues other than what the goal of the team is, it is addressed. That could mean being released from the team or just a sit-down talk. The issue can be looked at as noise detrimental to the entire team reaching their goal. Atmospherically, noise also can be likened to a calm sunny day versus a blustery cloudy day. There are just some things you can do on a sunny day that you would think twice about on a blustery cloudy day. Accepting peace as part of ones nature will most assuredly offer level thought to any situation.

This is most definitely not a complete list. Just as there are many mechanics there are a variety of persons. Each having their own set of tools. This is ok. Use what works to get that car, truck, furnace, air condition, or boat, fixed.

Much Love to you my friends! See ya next post.

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Part II Expected benefits from New Year Health resolutions

Welcome back, friends! So as promised this is part II of what benefits to expect if you have invested in New Year Health resolutions.

Let’s get to it, shall we?

Increased bone density-You may have heard this at some point. Exercise helps to increase bone density. What’s the big deal about this? Well, as we get older we age. Just as a home, a car, or a stamping machine parts begin to wear out. We can prolong its operation though through good maintenance. When it comes to our bodies, the same is true. A study conducted in 2000 showed there was a slight increase in bone mineral density in subjects that engaged in High-intensity routines. The bones, in particular, can lose bone density as time passes. This loss can be combated against though through good maintenance. A well-balanced eating plan and exercise are key. Studies have shown that with resistance training specifically bone density was increased. The graph shows the relationship between age and bone mass. As one ages, the bone mass changes also. Physical fitness routines help the body respond positively, meaning muscles grow, oxygen is circulated, and bones are strengthened.

2. Develops goal setting-If you feel you are one that has a hard time accomplishing anything, having a workout and eating plan is a sure way to get started. Meal and workout plans are offered by a variety of companies who can customize them for the individual. Getting help here is crucial if you are serious about changing your position and reaching your goal. Once these tools are offered all one has to do is accept the change mentally. All else will fall into place. Goal reached!

3. Expand socially-If you have a fear of being around crowds and others, having a gym membership can start you on the path of being socially mature. Accepting a gym membership is an important part of any workout plan. Unless you workout at home having a gym membership is the way to go. You can immediately meet others who are enduring the same challenges. The similarities of others fitness journey can be a sure fire way to gain friends.

4. Increases strength and flexibility-Are you feeling weak in areas or not as flexible as you once were? Fitness routines can definitely help you achieve this goal. Stretching regularly reinforces flexibility. Adding weights to any workout plan helps. The trick here is that one does not have to start out with a lot of weight. Generally one tends to overdo it and quickly becomes discouraged trying to lift too much weight. Always start off with a low manageable weight that encourages proper form. As your body responds( muscle definition, fat loss, increased strength, flexible joints, mental endurance, energized cardio) you will automatically adjust the resistance to meet the challenge.

5. Increases confidence-So your confidence is low. You’ve gained more weight than expected. Your annual checkup revealed a few health issues directly related to behaviors that put one at risk. This is an all too common scenario which can be changed by one’s attitude. When one accepts a plan to change the condition of their health, meal and fitness plans follow. Over time with discipline, mental and physical results become visible. One becomes mentally energized with an awareness to choosing better foods that are nutritionally packed. One’s physical appearance changes. Through disciplined workouts, the body is looking leaner from the loss of fat and building of muscle. This combination mentally motivates the individual and builds confidence. Ultimately replacing doubt and shyness present before the transformation.

So, investing in your health for 2018 is promising! Never let doubt hinder you from at least trying. You will never know how far you can travel if you never go out. My hope is that these words of encouragement serve you well.

Much love my friends and stay encouraged.

Credits: courtesy of Giphy

https://mnepilepsy.org/patient-information/bone-health-and-epilepsy-are-your-bones-brittle/

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Investing in New Year Health Resolutions? Expect Benefits!

Hello friend!

The New Year is here and if you are like many it is a good time to kinda reset and reevaluate life.

Many have decided to travel more, some have decided to engage in more social activities, and others have decided to better their health. Whatever the personal attention-getter it is always good to reevaluate to make things better. Even companies do it year to year so that in the end there is a better product or service. Thank goodness!

Bettering one’s health always ranks high when it comes to reevaluating yearly goals. The graph above highlights the increase in obesity rates since the 1960s and the concern. Today, when it comes to nutrition the typical American diet exceeds the recommended intake or limits when it comes to calories from added sugars, refined grains, sodium, and saturated fat.

When relating to exercise research shows that some states report adults exercising 3 or more times a week for at least 30 minutes while other states lag behind. A National average for adults exercising was 51.6%.

With stats like these, it is easy to see why many today have a concern for their health. There is also no shortage of companies that promote eating, exercise, and diet plans.

The point is that eating well and having a routine fitness plan can yield great physical and mental benefits. Following, I have compiled a list of benefits one is to expect after accepting an eating and fitness plan. There are so many that I will have to post in two parts. The following statement should be personally vocalized.

So, this year because I have decided to exercise more and eat better I will see:

Boost Energy-Have you ever met that person that seems to always be tired and unmotivated. After questioning, are they active or more of a couch potato? Chances are they are the later. Physical activity increases blood flow, raises heart rate levels and metabolism. This will easily combat any sluggishness.

Builds Perseverance-This is a definite mental boost for someone who may struggle with giving up on things. Workout plans are generally personalized. One thing that is common amongst all levels is the attitude to persevere. No matter what age or level of fitness one must learn to persevere and overcome in order to reach their fitness goal.
Lose Weight-This is generally accepted and widely known but just in case you did not get the memo here is a simple explanation. Imagine filling a car up with gas. It takes 10 gallons(37.8 liters). This is what it takes to run it. Let’s say you try to pump 15 gallons(56.8 liters). It will not take it because the tank is full. The excess will not be used. In the same sense, our bodies function at a base amount of calories. Consuming them will maintain the bodies functions. When more calories are consumed than what is normal, those calories unlike the gas that cannot be received in a car will be received by the body. Once received the body will more than likely store as excess fat. If nothing is done to alter this routine the excess calories will build and build and build. Yikes-weight gain! Knowing the foods and their calorie content help to defend against unwanted calories. Taking in fewer calories or burning them up(exercising) will help maintain. So important to become familiar with this aspect of nutrition.
Reduces Heart Disease-Today, this is a familiar banner. It encompasses any disease of the blood vessels that affect the heart, veins, brain, valves, or extremities. According to the World Health Organization, this is the number one cause of death globally. Routine exercising and healthy eating help to minimize the risk.
Calorie Control-Knowing the number of calories one consumes is extremely important. Too many can cause excess weight issues. Getting help in developing a plan to target foods that provide good calories and minimizing the excess will be a sure fire way to having control over weight concerns.

So, to wrap up part 1 of Reevaluating the New Year fitness plan a few things to take away. First, remember to educate yourself. There is plenty of information today-health professional, doctor, internet, YouTube, friends, and the library. Second, stay encouraged! We generally tend to have a goal set and expect change overnight. Hmmm? Not so and unrealistic through simple workout routines. Remember our situation did not happen overnight, it took time. So be patient! Thirdly, connect with others who are experiencing a fitness change too. This can be an invaluable source of encouragement if you begin doubting.

Stay encouraged and stay tuned for part II…Investing in New Year Resolutions.

Credits: Giphy, Google images,

The U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010. Available at: http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/dietaryguidelines.htm.

Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, Jan. 2-Dec. 29, 2013. Available at: http://www.gallup.com/poll/167645/vermont-no-frequent-exercise-produce-consumption.aspx

Disclaimer: Not a professional but a motivational health friend. Always seek professional advisement when making health decisions.

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Welcome! Happy New 2018 Year

The New Year ushers in expectancy…I share two things to be expectant of

Happy New Year All! 2018 is here!

Hope you all had a wonderful time celebrating and you did it safely.

The year 2017 was definitely an eventful one. Personally, I am thankful! I learned a little more about myself in areas I need improvement. I was shown I need to be a better listener. Too much talking can cloud what one needs to hear and receive.

I learned to accept being patient. There is a divine word that says, “patience is a virtue!” Definitely truth! I thought about past times where I could not just fathom patiently waiting for anything or whatever to happen. Such an in mature way to view life. After many trials, I am continuing to learn and accept patience as second nature. Yay!

I found that in just these two areas alone if accepted and adhered to one can learn much about living a joyous, fruitful and productive life. Thank goodness!

So with entering the 2018 New Year, I have to tell you I am expectant and excited. Expectant because I have planted seeds in 2017 that I am looking forward to growing in 2018.

I have planted seeds for individual development. One that I share periodically is maintaining a productive fitness program. My goodness, so glad I started this! I began around Easter of last year and have seen a steady progression in inches, feel, and look. My look has changed cause I’m losing inches around my midsection. I feel wonderful! The lost inches help me model my clothes with confidence. Haha! And it all just looks good now. Hehe!

I started blogging friends! Yay! It has been a wonderful experience I tell ya. Meeting all of you has expanded my friend base as well as helped me to see aspects of this life from a variety of perspectives. Thank you for sharing!

That being said, the whole social media environment has been a learning experience for me. I consider myself to be a private person so as I was introduced to the social media environment I had to learn to break my shell. So glad I did! Yay! I was caught between having a desire to share my passion for encouraging others or keep it all pent up and not share. Geesh! So glad I was encouraged to break the shell and share.

So entering into 2018 I plan on continuing the fitness journey and meeting more fellow bloggers. I hope your New Year is full of joy and just as good or better than the last. Again I wish everyone a Happy and Productive New 2018 Year.

Much Love my friends and thank you!

Pics courtesy- Giphy

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posted by Al Bell December 8, 2018

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Posted first by Al Bell November 25, 2018

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posted first by Al Bell November 21, 2018

Credits: Pixabay Images

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