Keeping Your Eyes on the Prize




In the journey of life, it's essential to keep our gaze fixed on what lies ahead rather than dwelling on past disappointments. While disappointments are a natural part of the human experience, they need not define our path forward. Instead of allowing setbacks to overshadow our aspirations, we can choose to view them as stepping stones toward growth and resilience. By directing our focus toward our goals, dreams, and aspirations, we channel our energy into constructive endeavors that uplift our spirits and ignite our motivation.

Looking ahead allows us to cultivate a sense of optimism and hope, enabling us to envision a brighter future despite present challenges. Every disappointment we encounter can serve as a valuable lesson, equipping us with wisdom and insights that guide our choices moving forward. When we maintain a forward-looking perspective, we open ourselves up to new opportunities and possibilities that may not have been visible while mired in disappointment. This approach empowers us to adapt, learn, and evolve, transforming setbacks into catalysts for positive change.

While acknowledging disappointments is important, they need not become the focal point of our lives. By training our gaze on the horizon, we tap into our innate resilience and the capacity to overcome obstacles. The road ahead is filled with untapped potential, awaiting our determination and creativity. As we shift our attention from what's behind to what's ahead, we harness the strength to chart our course, embrace the unknown with courage, and carve a path that is shaped by our dreams and aspirations, rather than hindered by past letdowns.

Here are five ways to help you keep your focus on what lies ahead:

  1. Set Clear Goals: Define your short-term and long-term goals. Having specific objectives gives you a clear sense of direction and purpose. When you're focused on achieving these goals, it becomes easier to stay motivated and keep your attention on what's ahead.
  2. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves staying present in the moment, but it also helps in maintaining a balanced perspective on the past and future. By cultivating mindfulness, you can acknowledge past disappointments without allowing them to consume your thoughts. This practice encourages a forward-looking mindset.
  3. Create a Vision Board: Visual representation can be a powerful tool for keeping your focus on your aspirations. Create a vision board with images, quotes, and symbols that represent your goals and dreams. Place it somewhere you'll see it daily, serving as a reminder of what you're working towards.
  4. Develop a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. A growth mindset encourages you to view setbacks as learning experiences rather than failures. This mindset shift helps you maintain a positive outlook and a forward-focused attitude.
  5. Practice Positive Self-Talk: Monitor your internal dialogue. Replace self-doubt and negative thoughts with positive affirmations that remind you of your capabilities and potential. By nurturing a positive self-image, you're more likely to stay focused on achieving your desired outcomes.  

    Remember that maintaining a forward-looking perspective is a conscious effort that takes time and practice. Regularly revisit your goals, celebrate your progress, and remind yourself of the possibilities that await you on your journey ahead.

    You can grab my free resource HERE!

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Are you "weighed down" or are you "weightless?"


I recently discovered that my left knee must be surgically replaced if I want to stay active.  Now, I am in good health, and go to the gym, though due to not being able to do my usual walks on the mountain my weight has crept to my upper normals over mid to lower normals.  So, I'm going to do something for myself to get stronger and heal quicker after surgery.  I'm going to challenge myself to get back to a few pounds lighter and to maintain my lower healthier weight.

Maintaining a healthy weight offers numerous benefits that positively impact both physical and mental well-being. Firstly, it reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. By keeping weight within a healthy range, individuals can lower their blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and enhance overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight promotes better joint health, reducing the strain on bones and joints, and lowering the risk of conditions such as arthritis.

Secondly, maintaining a healthy weight has significant psychological advantages. It can boost self-esteem and body image, leading to increased confidence and a positive outlook on life. Regular physical activity, which often accompanies weight maintenance, releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

Moreover, individuals who maintain a healthy weight tend to experience better sleep patterns, increased energy levels, and improved cognitive function, allowing them to perform daily tasks more efficiently and effectively. Overall, maintaining a healthy weight is a holistic approach that supports both physical and mental well-being, leading to a higher quality of life.

Exercise is also extremely important, and even if I cannot walk the distances I am used to doing right now, I am still maintaining an exercise regimen three to five days a week. 

Exercise offers a multitude of benefits that positively impact both physical and mental well-being. Firstly, regular physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity. Exercise helps burn calories, build muscle mass, and improve metabolism, contributing to weight management. Furthermore, exercise promotes cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving circulation, leading to reduced risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. It also helps improve lung function and enhances overall endurance and stamina.

Secondly, exercise has significant mental health benefits. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, often called "feel-good" hormones, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular exercise has been shown to enhance cognitive function, memory, and concentration, leading to improved productivity and mental clarity. 

Moreover, exercise provides a healthy outlet for stress relief, helping to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. It can also boost self-esteem and body image, fostering a positive sense of self and promoting overall mental well-being. In summary, exercise is a powerful tool that benefits both the body and the mind, leading to improved physical health, increased energy levels, and enhanced emotional well-being.

Here are five ways to start exercising

  1. Set achievable goals: Begin by setting realistic and achievable exercise goals. Start with small steps, such as aiming to exercise for 20 minutes three times a week, and gradually increase the duration and frequency as you build stamina and confidence. Setting achievable goals helps maintain motivation and prevents overwhelm.
  2. Find activities you enjoy: Engaging in physical activities you enjoy makes exercise more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run. Experiment with different activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or joining a sports team. Discover what you find fun and fulfilling, and incorporate it into your exercise routine.
  3. Make it a habit: Consistency is key when starting an exercise routine. Schedule dedicated time for exercise in your daily or weekly calendar and treat it as an important commitment. Consider exercising at the same time each day to establish a routine and make it a habit that becomes part of your lifestyle.
  4. Start small and progress gradually: It's essential to start at a comfortable level, especially if you're new to exercise or returning after a long break. Begin with low-impact activities and gradually increase the intensity or duration as your fitness level improves. Listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard initially, as this can lead to injury or burnout.
  5. Get support and accountability: Seek support from friends, family, or a workout buddy who can join you in your exercise journey. Having someone to exercise with can make it more enjoyable and provide mutual encouragement. Additionally, consider joining fitness classes or programs that offer structure, guidance, and accountability to help you stay motivated and committed to your exercise routine.
Maintaining a healthy weight not only benefits your physical health but also plays a crucial role in supporting your emotional well-being. Here are five reasons why maintaining a healthy weight helps your emotions:

  1. Improved self-esteem: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can boost your self-esteem and body image. Feeling confident in your physical appearance can positively impact your emotional well-being, leading to increased self-worth and a more positive self-image.
  2. Reduced stress levels: Regular exercise, which is often a part of weight maintenance, releases endorphins, which are known as "feel-good" hormones. These endorphins can help reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and enhance your overall mood.
  3. Enhanced mental clarity: A healthy weight is often associated with a balanced diet and regular physical activity, both of which contribute to improved cognitive function. Proper nutrition and exercise support brain health, leading to better focus, increased mental clarity, and improved emotional stability.
  4. Increased energy levels: Maintaining a healthy weight can provide you with more energy throughout the day. When your body is fueled with nutritious foods and regular exercise, you are more likely to feel energized and ready to tackle daily tasks. Higher energy levels can contribute to a more positive and optimistic outlook on life.
  5. Better sleep quality: Carrying excess weight can sometimes lead to sleep problems such as sleep apnea or disrupted sleep patterns. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce the risk of these issues and promote better sleep quality. Sufficient, restful sleep is essential for emotional well-being, as it helps regulate mood, improves stress management, and enhances overall emotional resilience.
If you would like to join me in a private FB group for eight weeks of free coaching to release a few pounds, and know how to maintain that for life go here and join my group!  I will then get you all the details.  Here's the link to the FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/knowyourscale/

Have a great week!

Things you should know about the third "C"


Changing our thoughts is crucial for our well-being and overall quality of life and can be downright challenging!  Especially when something has happened to cause stress, worry, and chip away at your beliefs.  This is why the 5 "C's" are useful when one of these situations arises.

Changing negative thoughts is crucial for our well-being and overall quality of life. When we allow negative thoughts to take hold, they can consume us and drain our energy, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and unhappiness. By consciously challenging and transforming negative thoughts into positive ones, we empower ourselves to cultivate a more optimistic outlook on life. 

This shift in mindset opens up a world of possibilities, enabling us to see opportunities where we once saw obstacles. It promotes resilience, self-confidence, and a greater sense of control over our emotions and actions. Ultimately, choosing to change negative thoughts allows us to nurture a healthier and more fulfilling inner dialogue, paving the way for personal growth, improved relationships, and a more positive and joyful existence.

Here are five ways to help change a negative thought into a more positive one:

  1. Awareness and Challenge: Begin by becoming aware of negative thoughts as they arise. Pause and consciously question their validity. Ask yourself if there is evidence to support the negative thought or if there could be alternative perspectives. Challenge the negative thought by replacing it with a positive or more balanced statement.
  2. Reframing: Reframing involves consciously shifting your perspective on a situation. Instead of focusing solely on the negatives, try to find the silver lining or a more constructive angle. Look for opportunities for growth, learning, or gratitude within the situation. Reframing allows you to see the bigger picture and reframe negative experiences as valuable lessons.
  3. Positive Affirmations: Positive affirmations are powerful statements that reinforce positive beliefs about oneself. Choose affirmations that counteract your negative thoughts and repeat them regularly. By affirming positive qualities or outcomes, you can rewire your subconscious mind to embrace more positive and empowering thoughts.
  4. Gratitude Practice: Cultivating a gratitude practice can help shift your focus from negative thoughts to the positive aspects of your life. Each day, take a few moments to reflect on things you are grateful for, whether big or small. This practice promotes a mindset of appreciation and helps counterbalance negative thinking patterns.
  5. Self-Compassion: Negative thoughts often stem from self-criticism and judgment. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness and understanding. When negative thoughts arise, remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and has setbacks. Offer yourself words of encouragement and remind yourself that you are worthy of love and acceptance.
Remember, changing negative thoughts takes time and practice. Be patient and persistent with these techniques, and gradually you'll experience a shift towards more positive thinking patterns.

To help your brain move to a better thought over a negative one, it's essential to practice awareness and active intervention. Start by recognizing when negative thoughts arise and consciously choose to redirect your focus. Engage in activities that bring you joy and promote a positive mindset, such as listening to uplifting music, reading inspirational books, or engaging in creative outlets. 

Challenge negative thoughts by questioning their validity and searching for alternative, more positive perspectives. Replace negative self-talk with encouraging and supportive affirmations. Surround yourself with positive influences and supportive people who can help shift your perspective. 

Finally, practice self-compassion and forgiveness, recognizing that everyone experiences negative thoughts and setbacks. By consistently practicing these strategies, you can train your brain to seek and embrace better thoughts, leading to increased resilience, happiness, and overall well-being.

Here are five ways to help your brain look for better thoughts over negative ones:

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Engage in regular mindfulness and meditation practices. These techniques help you observe your thoughts without judgment and create space between you and your negative thoughts. By cultivating a non-reactive and present-moment awareness, you can interrupt negative thought patterns and create room for more positive and constructive thoughts to emerge.
  2. Surround Yourself with Positivity: Surround yourself with positive influences, such as uplifting books, podcasts, and supportive people. Seek out environments that foster positivity and optimism. The more exposure you have to positive ideas and experiences, the more your brain will naturally gravitate towards better thoughts.
  3. Cognitive Restructuring: Cognitive restructuring is a technique that involves challenging and reframing negative thoughts. When a negative thought arises, consciously question its validity and explore alternative perspectives. Look for evidence that contradicts the negative thought and reframe it into a more positive or balanced statement. Practice this regularly to rewire your brain to seek out better thoughts.
  4. Gratitude Practice: Cultivate a daily gratitude practice. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life, no matter how small. This practice rewires your brain to focus on the good, helping it naturally seek out and generate better thoughts. Consider keeping a gratitude journal or sharing your gratitude with others to enhance the benefits.
  5. Engage in Positive Self-Talk: Pay attention to your internal dialogue and consciously replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and supportive statements. Be kind and compassionate towards yourself, and consciously choose thoughts that uplift and encourage you. Over time, your brain will learn to default to more positive thoughts and beliefs.
Remember, changing your thought patterns takes time and effort. Be patient and consistent with these practices, and you'll gradually train your brain to seek out better thoughts over negative ones.

Young Living Essential Oils I use when doing these Five "C's" are Frankincense, Lavender, Stress Away (as a blend in equal drops), Clarity, and Abundance.  Check out these oils by clicking HERE!

If you'd like to have a free consult click HERE!

Grab my free resource Five Steps to Intentional Change click HERE!

If you'd like to grab my latest book "Find Your Purpose...Find Your Passion"  click HERE!

Here's a review just in from Susan Brown!

"I loved this book! The author shows us how our thoughts define our future, and provides all the practical information we need to start overcoming obstacles in our lives and achieving things we thought we could never do. Punctuated with stories about her own journey, the author provides a step-by-step guide to finding purpose in life and living it with passion. She teaches us how to identify the things we need to change, and the skills to commit to that change and always be accountable. Importantly, she identifies the power of truly believing in ourselves, and never, ever giving up."   Susan Brown.


10 things about Self Coaching you should know!


Let's talk about why self-coaching can be life-changing in all areas of life.

Self-coaching is a powerful approach to personal growth and development. It involves taking on the role of both the coach and the coachee, allowing you to guide yourself toward your desired goals and outcomes. Self-coaching empowers you to become more self-aware, reflective, and proactive in your journey of self-improvement. It involves setting clear objectives, identifying obstacles, and developing strategies to overcome them. 

Through self-coaching, you can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, your strengths, and your areas for improvement. You can set realistic action plans, monitor your progress, and make necessary adjustments along the way. Self-coaching provides a sense of autonomy and ownership over one's personal development, leading to increased self-confidence and a greater sense of fulfillment.

One of the key benefits of self-coaching is the ability to tailor the process to individual needs and preferences. It allows you to explore your unique perspectives and insights, promoting a more personalized and meaningful growth experience. Self-coaching also fosters a sense of accountability, as you take responsibility for your actions and decisions. 

You become an active participant in your own development, which can lead to increased motivation and a stronger commitment to achieving your goals. Moreover, self-coaching can be a lifelong skill that you can apply to various aspects of your life, empowering you to learn, adapt, and grow continuously. By embracing self-coaching, you can unlock your full potential and create a life that aligns with your values and aspirations.

Here are five benefits of self-coaching:

  1. Increased Self-Awareness: Self-coaching enables you to develop a deep understanding of your strengths, weaknesses, values, and aspirations. By exploring your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, you gain insight into what drives you and what holds you back. This heightened self-awareness allows for more intentional decision-making and empowers you to align your actions with your true self.
  2. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Through self-coaching, you learn to identify and analyze challenges and obstacles that stand in the way of your goals. You develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling you to come up with creative and effective strategies to overcome these challenges. Self-coaching encourages you to think outside the box, explore alternative perspectives, and find innovative solutions to problems.
  3. Greater Empowerment and Autonomy: Self-coaching puts you in the driver's seat of your personal growth journey. It fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over one's life and development. Instead of relying on external sources for guidance, you become self-reliant and confident in your ability to navigate challenges and make decisions. This autonomy promotes a greater sense of control, freedom, and self-determination.
  4. Flexible and Personalized Approach: Self-coaching allows you to tailor the process to your unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. Unlike traditional coaching, self-coaching provides the freedom to explore personal insights, experiment with different strategies, and adapt the approach as needed. This flexibility enables you to create a coaching style that resonates with you, maximizing your growth potential.
  5. Lifelong Learning and Growth: Self-coaching is a lifelong skill that you can apply to various areas of your life. It encourages a growth mindset and a continuous pursuit of personal development. By becoming your own coach, you cultivate a habit of self-reflection, learning from your experiences, and continuously seeking opportunities for growth. Self-coaching equips you with the tools and mindset to adapt to change, embrace new challenges, and evolve throughout your life.
When you learn how to self coach yourself your chances of success in every area of your life increase.  Here are 5 ways that that will help

1. Clarity of Goals and Vision: Self-coaching helps individuals gain clarity about their goals, aspirations, and the vision they have for their lives. By engaging in self-reflection and asking powerful questions, individuals can define their objectives with precision and establish a clear roadmap toward success. This clarity increases their chances of success by providing a clear direction to focus their efforts and energy.

2. Personalized Strategies and Action Plans: Self-coaching allows individuals to design personalized strategies and action plans that are tailored to their unique strengths, interests, and circumstances. Instead of relying on generic approaches, individuals can leverage their self-awareness to identify the most effective methods to achieve their goals. This customized approach maximizes their chances of success by capitalizing on their individual strengths and minimizing potential obstacles.

3. Increased Accountability: Self-coaching cultivates a sense of accountability and personal responsibility. When individuals take on the role of both the coach and the coachee, they establish a strong commitment to their own success. By setting specific milestones, tracking progress, and holding themselves accountable for their actions, individuals become more motivated and driven to achieve their desired outcomes.

4. Self-Motivation and Resilience: Self-coaching fosters self-motivation and resilience, two crucial qualities for success. Through the process of self-reflection and goal-setting, individuals connect with their intrinsic motivations and the deeper reasons behind their aspirations. This internal drive helps individuals stay focused, overcome obstacles, and persevere in the face of setbacks or challenges.

5. Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Self-coaching promotes a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Individuals engage in ongoing self-reflection, seeking opportunities for growth and improvement. This mindset allows them to learn from their experiences, adjust their strategies as needed, and adapt to changing circumstances. By continuously honing their skills and expanding their knowledge, individuals increase their ability to navigate the path to success effectively.

Young Living Essential Oils I recommend for self-coaching are, Frankincense, Stress Away, Lavender, Peppermint, Citrus Fress, Lemon, and Peace and Calming.  HERE'S a link to check them out!

Grab my free resource "How Mindful Are You"  HERE!

If you would like a free consult book HERE!

Have an awesome week!




The Belief Factor. Do you know YOUR purpose?




Having a sense of purpose in life is essential for our overall well-being and fulfillment. It gives us a reason to wake up every day with motivation and enthusiasm. When we have a purpose, we have a clear goal or direction that guides our decisions and actions. It can give us a sense of meaning and satisfaction, as we feel like we are making a difference in the world or contributing to something greater than ourselves. 

A purpose can provide a sense of identity and help us understand our values and beliefs. It can also give us a sense of control and empowerment, as we take ownership of our lives and make decisions that align with our purpose.

Moreover, having a purpose in life can positively impact our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that people who have a sense of purpose have lower levels of stress and anxiety, are less likely to experience depression, and have better sleep quality. Having a purpose can also improve our cognitive function and brain health, as it gives us a reason to keep learning and growing. 

It can even prolong our lives, as research has linked a sense of purpose to a reduced risk of mortality. Overall, having a purpose in life is crucial for our well-being and can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

One way to find your purpose in life is to explore the things you are passionate about. Your passions are a great place to start when trying to identify your purpose because they are usually the things that give you the most joy and satisfaction. Start by making a list of the things you enjoy doing, the things that make you feel alive and engaged. Reflect on the times when you have lost track of time or felt completely immersed in an activity. These are often indications of your passions.

Once you have identified your passions, start thinking about how you can use them to make a positive impact on the world. For example, if you are passionate about writing, you could write articles or books that inspire people or help them solve problems. If you are passionate about music, you could use your talent to bring joy and entertainment to others, or you could write songs that convey meaningful messages. The key is to find ways to use your passions to contribute to something greater than yourself. By aligning your passions with a sense of purpose, you can find a fulfilling and meaningful way to live your life.

Here are five tips to find YOUR purpose in life!



  1. Explore your interests and passions: Start by making a list of the things you enjoy doing or the topics that you are passionate about. Consider what brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of accomplishment. Think about the activities that you could engage in for hours without getting bored. These are often good indicators of your passions and can help you identify potential paths to finding your purpose.
  2. Identify your core values: Reflect on the things that matter most to you in life, such as integrity, honesty, kindness, or compassion. Understanding your core values can help you make decisions that align with your beliefs and bring a sense of meaning to your life.
  3. Try new things: Experiment with new activities, hobbies, or career paths that you have not tried before. This can help you discover new interests and passions that you never knew existed. It may also help you gain new skills and experiences that could be useful in identifying your purpose.
  4. Reflect on your life experiences: Consider the challenges, setbacks, or successes that you have experienced in life. Reflect on the lessons learned and how they have shaped your perspective or values. These experiences can help you identify areas of interest or passion that you may want to pursue further.
  5. Seek guidance and support: Talk to trusted friends, family members, or mentors about your journey to finding your purpose. Seek their advice, feedback, or insights on your strengths, weaknesses, and areas of interest. They may be able to provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate the process of discovering your purpose.
If this has been helpful, grab my free resource, The Five Stages of Change,  HERE!

To book a free coffee chat with me click HERE!

You can find my book Find Your Purpose/Find Your Passion HERE!




 
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