Affirmations

Fall Season Reflections

LaPorterOctober 28, 20244 Replies

Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall. – F. Scott Fitzgerald

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Thought to Ponder – If you feel like you’re losing everything, remember that trees lose their leaves every year, but they still stand tall and wait for better days to come.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! What better time to start back writing and posting on my blog than during the fall season. On Sunday, November 3, 2024, our clocks will move back an hour at 2 a.m., and we will gain an hour of sleep as we “fall back”. This annual time change begins in March when we “spring forward” an hour and ends in November when we “fall back” an hour. The purpose of this process is to extend daylight hours during conventional waking time in the summer months. Unfortunately, that time change twice a year will come at a cost to our internal body clock and our daily routines.

FALL SEASON REFLECTIONS AND LIFE LESSONS

The falling leaves are like nature’s confetti celebrating the season of change. – Unknown Author

I have to admit, fall is my favorite season. I love the coolness in the air and the mental cleansing that I strive for as I experience change all around me. Have you ever just looked at nature (the trees, flowers, animals, grass) during the fall season? Taking just a moment each day in nature to reflect on the changes happening around you, you will learn a lot about your very existence which turns into life lessons.

Here’s a few examples of how reflections of the fall season can provide you with life lessons:

Radiate Beauty – There’s so much beauty outdoors. Take a moment and reflect on the fall colors and textures, then capture your own beauty, creativity and awareness during this time of natural change.
Let Go – Allow yourself to release anything and anybody from your presence that do not help you to grow and flourish. Once you release, you will naturally enjoy fresh new beginnings in life that will allow you to grow and mature.
Find Balance – As you go through life, it’s important to reflect on a healthy balance in life so that you can enjoy family, work, and personal time without feeling guilty.
God’s Blessing – It’s always good to reflect on God’s Blessings but fall brings more awareness to change and healthy relationships. Always strive to find healthy ways to improve your life as it relates to family, friendships, guidance, etc.

HEALTHY WAYS TO TRANSITION DURING DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME

The secret to living well is – eat half, walk double, laugh triple and love without measure. – Tibetan Proverb

However, for many people, the end of daylight savings time may increase cases of depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), cluster headaches, and other health concerns, such as drowsiness and irritability. Even though there’s nothing you can do to fully compensate for the sudden time change, it’s important to make this experience as healthy as you can.

Here’s some healthy ways to transition during daylight savings time:

Advance Preparation for the fall time change. Move your clock backwards on Saturday night and think about readjusting your bedtime to better align with the time change.
Don’t stay up later. Be sure to go to bed on time. Allow your body to readjust to the time change in a healthy way.
Limit all alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine on the Saturday before. These items can impact your ability to fall asleep and they can also trigger headaches.
Get a lot of sunshine. Go outside and get a lot of sunshine. If it’s too cold, open your blinds. Try to go for walks during the day to help boost your mood and energy.
Exercise daily. Mild exercise, such as walking can help keep you from crashing on the couch after work.
Ditch the naps. Although a power nap during the day is tempting, don’t do it. If you get tired, get up and take a walk or do a vigorous exercise routine.
Resist sleeping in. Do not sleep in. Get up like you normally do. It’s important to jump right into your daily routine.
Adjust lighting. Adjusting the amount of light and dark in your home/office can help make the transition less difficult.

Fall is a reminder that change is inevitable, but growth is optional. – Unknown Author

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

Every day is a fresh start to realign with your purpose.
I have the power to create change within me.
I am open to new beginnings.
I ground myself in the present moment and nurture my inner self.
I embody warmth, peace, and serenity.
I embrace the beauty of change and watch my life transform into greatness.
I am in perfect harmony with the rhythm of life.
I let go of old habits and welcome new, healthier ones.
I am like the trees, letting go of what I no longer need to grow.
I release the weight of negativity and allow positivity to fill my heart.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

We all change colors and lose our leaves…then we bloom again. – Maria Lago

What in your life makes you feel alive and energized?
What can you do to take better care of yourself?
What is going on well in your life right now?
What advice should you give yourself right now?
What is your vision for the next 3 months?

WRITER & BLOGGER CORNER

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Thank you for taking the time to read my latest blog post. What resonated with you? Share your thoughts concerning this blog post in the comment section below so we can learn and grow from one another. I look forward to reading your responses! If you have not done so already, please SUBSCRIBE to my Renew Inspiration blog so will receive notifications each time I publish a new blog post.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Mindfulness Journaling

LaPorterSeptember 2, 20242 Replies

White Flowers, Open Journal Book, Silver Pen — Mindfulness Journaling, Renew Inspiration

You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find eternity in every moment. -Henry David Thoreau

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Thought to Ponder – The present moment is your canvas, and mindfulness is the brush that paints your masterpiece.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s take a moment to discuss a topic that is dear to my heart, mindfulness journaling. To begin with, journaling helps you reflect on self, discover your sense of purpose, and meaning in life.

Mindfulness journaling allows you to gain clarity inside and out. It also helps you to make positive changes in your life. If you allow it, mindfulness journaling will offer you a glimpse into your soul in its purest form by helping you recognize, identify, and build a closer relationship to a higher power.

Before we get started, please make sure you have the following:

An open mind; Meditation ready
Willingness to be honest and express oneself
Eager to move from one place to another freely
Humble and caring spirit; Broken soul
Journal or Notebook
Pen or Pencil

DEFINITION – MINDFULNESS JOURNALING

Let’s begin with establishing the definition of MINDFULNESS JOURNALING.

MINDFULNESS JOURNALING (noun): A practice that involves writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a non-judgmental way. It helps you connect with inner self, deepen your awareness, and cultivate inner pace.

Before we go any further, I want to encourage you to pause for a moment and look within. Create awareness of your overall energy, how you feel and what you’re thinking. Mindfulness journaling can be another form of self-reflection. It can make you aware of negative patterns in your behavior so you can focus on the present moment.

BENEFITS OF MINDFULNESS JOURNALING

Mindfulness is a way of befriending ourselves and our experience. – Jon Kabat-Zinn

What’s the message that you need on today? What is it that you need to focus on within your life, right now, in this very moment? During your lifelong journey, it’s important for you to speak positive words into your soul. Despite the hurt you may feel or the sadness you experience in life, often times you forget that the power to overcome life’s challenges is already inside you. If you feel lost or defeated, it’s because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together you will find peace. Although, there’s a lot of benefits of mindfulness journaling, here’s a few that I want to share with you.

Mindfulness Journaling:

Helps you think more critically about your life.
Reduces stress and anxiety by keeping you in the present moment.
Allows you to recognize and release negative thoughts and feelings.
Increases your happiness in life and improves your mood.
Encourages inner peace and a feeling of well-being.
Provides self-discovery, self-awareness, and moments of reflection.
Helps you gain clarity in your life, better memory and cognitive skills.
Increases creativity and positivity.
Builds resilience and confidence.
Helps to organize and process your thoughts and feelings.
Improves your sleep and overall mental wellness.

As you can see, making the decision to practice mindfulness journaling daily will bring peace, and emotional healing into your life one journal entry at a time.

MINDFULNESS JOURNALING TIPS

Mindfulness is a pause – the space between stimulus and response: that’s where choice lies. – Tara Brach

Mindfulness journaling is a great way to release restless thoughts and emotions so you can be in a better headspace. Even if you include mindfulness journaling for a few moments each day, you will begin to heal any emotional, physical or mental wounds that may have been caused by negativity from others or internally.

Here’s some great mindfulness journaling tips to help you get started:

Create a quiet, calm, and safe space to write.
Set an intention, slow down, and write with awareness.
Be present, be mindful, and breathe slowly to ground yourself.
Allow your thoughts to flow freely and write about anything that comes to mind.
Be consistent and write in your journal every day to create a new healthy habit.
Shift your writing from negative to positive so you can be ready to receive a different outcome.
Live in the moment and bring an open, accepting and discerning attention to everything you do.

What’s your story or experience concerning journaling? It’s important to allow yourself to feel and to express yourself honestly throughout this process. I choose to reflect on inspiring quotes, affirmations and/or scriptures that are hidden in my heart during my journaling time in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc. Remember, this is a personal journey. Be sure to show yourself some grace while starting your new mindfulness journaling experience. It’s important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace, and joy throughout the process.

MINDFULNESS JOURNALING SUGGESTIONS

Create a Gratitude List – To cultivate a positive attitude, begin your day by reflecting on or writing down at least three things you are grateful for. It can be anything, from your favorite hot beverage, the weather or your pet. Explore whatever brings you a smile or a feeling of warmth.
Enjoy Nature – To find focus during the day, take a few moments to appreciate the beauty in nature. Step outside and focus on your senses. What do you see? What sounds do you hear? What do you smell? Are you eating or drinking anything? What do you notice when you touch the grass or plants that are around you?
Focus on Your Breathing – Try inhaling to the count of 5, holding for the count of 3, and exhaling to the count of 5. Imagine breathing in calmness and comfort and breathing out any stress or negative feelings. Repeat for 3 breaths or until you feel calm and more grounded.

MINDFULNESS AFFIRMATIONS

Here’s a few of my favorite mindfulness affirmations to help you get started:

I am fully present in this moment.
I embrace the here and now with open arms.
Each breath I take grounds me in the present.
I am using the wisdom within me to navigate through my life.
I find clarity and calm in the present moment.
I am aware of my surroundings and appreciate their beauty.
I am conscious of my power to shape my present experiences.
I find strength and tranquility in the present moment.
I am embracing my full potential even if it makes others uncomfortable.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

What are three things you’re grateful for today?
What are three things you noticed in the morning? afternoon? evening?
How are you feeling about yourself in this very moment?
What is something that has been weighing on your mind lately?
Do you have any regrets about how you’ve lived your life so far?
In what ways can you forgive yourself?
What obstacles to internal peace are you facing?
How can you feel more aligned in life, between your thoughts and actions?
What can you do right now to lift your mood?
What things do you look forward to in the day to come?

WRITER & BLOGGER CORNER

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

ConvertKit is the go-to marketing hub for creators that helps you start, grow, automate, and monetize your audience with ease. Start your free 14-day trial today. No credit card required. Cancel anytime. Grow your audience using beautiful landing pages and sign-up forms that make your creative work standout. In addition, you will have access to helpful articles, tutorials, and the Creator University for lifetime learning opportunities.

SELF-REFLECTION MOMENT

Let’s Talk. As you can see, mindfulness journaling can help you overcome any obstacle that you face in life. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges in life? What are some challenges that stretched your limits and helped you grow? What steps can you take to grow into the person you want to be? Please spend some quality time answering these questions in your journal or notebook.

P.S. If you have not done so already, please SUBSCRIBE to my Renew Inspiration blog so you can receive notifications each time I publish a new blog post. Let’s stay connected!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Undeserved Grace

LaPorterJune 9, 20246 Replies

One day in God’s grace is equivalent to a thousand days of striving by your own efforts. – Joseph Prince

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Thought to Ponder – God’s grace is new each day. Walk in grace, live in love.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! As I sit here focusing on my writing, I keep thinking about how good God is to all of us. Sometimes we go through each day without even acknowledging God’s presence in our lives or simply just giving God thanks.

Despite how we sometimes act, God still loves us unconditionally and shows us grace. Grace is that attribute of God that enables us to break free of our sinful nature and follow God’s lead. Grace gives us strength, protection, and much needed direction. Most importantly, undeserved grace changes everything in our lives and all around us.

DEFINITION – GRACE

Let’s begin with establishing the definition of GRACE.

GRACE (noun): The free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.

God’s grace is adequate for anything and everything that you experience in this life. Despite what prompted the hurt or disappointment in your life, know that with time God’s undeserved grace can bring peace, hope, and healing.

GOD’S EXTRAVAGANT GIFT – HIS UNDESERVED GRACE

Grace is a free gift of God, but to receive a gift you must have open hands. – Philip Yancey

God does not withdraw His grace when you stumble or fall. Instead, acting with grace and mercy, God gently picks you up and enables you to take the next step moving forward. You can always find at God’s throne of grace whatever help you need whenever you need it. You can run to God in times of trouble, when your heart is broken, when you’re at life’s crossroads or during the darkest and loneliest nights. Remember, God is waiting for you with open arms to offer you an extravagant gift: His grace. The best thing about that, it cost Him everything, but it costs us nothing. The only payback God asks from us is that we reach out and take the gift. Then, rest assured knowing that you are saved through God’s love and grace.

Now grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of the Messiah’s gift. Ephesians 4:7

Spiritual growth begins with salvation given to us as a gift from God. Our daily spiritual growth is also utterly dependent on God’s grace. There are many ways to increase one’s spiritual growth through grace, such as reading God’s Word, allowing God’s Word to dwell in you, and staying in prayer through good and bad times. It’s important to have a clear and thorough understanding throughout this process. Keeping an open mind and meditating on God’s Word will allow you to apply God’s grace in your life so you can break free from mental, emotional and physical bondage.

ACCEPT GOD’S GRACE

I don’t know exactly what’s next but I’m stepping forward with grit, anchored in grace. -Julie Graham

Grace is more powerful than sin. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. You don’t have to be perfect, only be a willing vessel and accept God’s grace. God’s grace will break chains in your life that often times keep you stuck with no healthy outlet and give you the freedom you deserve. You can accept God’s grace by doing the following:

JUST ASK – Matthew 7:7 says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” God waits on you to make a request. Jesus treats your past and mistakes you made with grace. Jesus have already taken the weight of it all and left it on the cross.

THROUGH FORGIVENESS – Trust God’s grace by receiving forgiveness. Learn how to forgive yourself and clear your conscience.

PRAISE & WORSHIP – Take time to sing, dance or write God a love note. Express yourself to God often in your own way. Open your heart to receive God’s love and goodness.

The more grace we have and ask God for, the more mature as Christians we will be. I thank God, in His grace, has given us His Son to save us, His Spirit to dwell within us, His Word to instruct us, and His people to encourage us. Hope you will accept God’s grace so your life will be blessed for years to come.

AFFIRMATIONS

God’s grace, quite simply, is God’s mercy and goodness toward us. – Billy Graham

Here’s a few of my favorite grace affirmations to help you get started:

I allow and embrace the grace of God.
I am using God’s grace to navigate through life.
I carry myself with poise, grace, and dignity.
I see all the beauty and grace which is around me with loving gratitude.
I live my life with grace, elegance and perfect peace.
I am thankful for the limitless overflowing source of grace and abundance.
I am always creating a new course of action through God’s love, guidance, and grace.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Grace gives kindness to ourselves and others even when it’s hard. – Unknown Author

What has prevented you from accepting God’s undeserved grace?
How can you show yourself grace throughout your life journey?
What does God’s grace feel like? sound like? smell like? taste like? look like?
How can you trust God today and receive His grace, love, and kindness?
What do you need to mute in your life in order to hear God’s voice?

WRITER & BLOGGER CORNER

SELF-REFLECTION MOMENT

Let’s Talk. God’s grace is sufficient. Without God’s grace, we will not have growth and we would be lost souls. You have to do the work which includes following God’s plan for your life, changing your thought patterns, and making time for self-reflection. How has reading God’s Word, praying and journal writing brought you closer to God? What can you let go of and give it to God in order to have a clean heart? How often do you spend time reflecting on your life or daily situations? Please spend some quality time answering these questions in your journal or notebook. Then, share your thoughts concerning this blog post in the comment section below so we can learn and grow from one another. I look forward to reading your responses!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through any of the links (at no additional cost to you).

How to Increase Faith and Decrease Fear

LaPorterMay 13, 20248 Replies

Pink and yellow flower with white background — Image was found via Pinterest.com

God is still writing your story. Don’t let go of your faith because of what you have to see. – Unknown Author

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Thought to Ponder – Faith is the bridge between where I am, and the place God is taking me.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Hope you enjoyed your Mother’s Day weekend with family and friends. I cannot believe it has been more than 10 months since I have written and posted an inspirational post here. I stepped away from my writing projects because I needed a mental break, and I had some family struggles to work through. It’s hard to focus on what you love to do when you’re constantly facing issues and need to be there for your loved ones. Well, I’m back now and I appreciate your on-going support.

Despite what you have experienced so far this year, be thankful that you are here today to speak about it and read my inspirational blog. It’s important for us to pour positivity into our lives often so we can be better prepared to overcome any obstacle we face in life. I felt it was important to write a blog post explaining how to increase faith and decrease fear since faith is required for us to keep going day after day.

DEFINITIONS – FAITH and FEAR

Let’s begin with establishing the definitions of FAITH and FEAR.

FAITH (noun): Complete trust or confidence in someone or something. Strong belief in God or in the doctrines of a religion, based on spiritual apprehension rather than proof.

FEAR (noun): An unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.

WAYS TO INCREASE FAITH

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8 (KJV)

When you are broken in pieces and experiencing so much pain, God can seem distant and even uncaring while you are in this vulnerable, yet lonely place. But before you throw in the towel or choose to give up on living life to the fullest, know that God promises in His Word to be with you always and to give you comfort in the midst of your storm, so whatever your feelings are suggesting to you in this very dark moment, know that God is with you always.

For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. Psalm 48:14 (KJV)

You must believe in your heart and mind that you will receive whatever it is that you are praying for throughout your journey. No mountain is too big for our God. I always think of a mountain as any obstacle, problem, or situation that happens in our lives. Despite the challenges and constant struggles in life, throughout this process, it’s important to find effective ways to increase your faith.

Here’s a few suggestions and scriptures to help you get started with your spiritual transformation to increase faith and decrease fear:

Read and Study God’s Word.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (KJV)

God’s Word should be read and hidden in your heart so that you can fully understand the promises that God made to you. This process will allow God’s Word to guide, instruct, and protect you. Along with your Bible, you can also read spiritual devotions or faith-based inspirational books.

Make Time for Daily Prayer and Meditation.

Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18 (ESV)

Schedule quiet time for prayer and meditation inviting God to come into your presence. Remove distractions, quiet your mind, and talk to God regularly while listening with your spiritual ear for the necessary guidance that’s needed throughout your day.

Practice Praise and Worship.

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Hebrews 13:15-16 (KJV)

Set aside time each day to usher in God’s presence through praise and worship. This can be done through speaking scriptures and affirmations over your life or through singing worship songs in the presence of God.

Be Transparent and Live Out God’s Word.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV)

It’s important to not just read and study God’s Word, but you must be transparent and apply God’s Word to your life each and every day. Make a commitment today and watch God work miracles in your life.

Trust in God.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)

As believers in Christ, it’s important to intentionally focus on God’s plans for you and not get in the way with your own personal views and interpretations of how you think your life should be. Remove any doubt or fear from your heart and replace it with belief and trust in God.

Along this journey called life, we have to open our hearts and minds to a true understanding of life’s many challenges and faith, of what it is and what it is not, in our lives and abroad. It’s important to know that faith is something to be experienced and exercised, not defined, categorized, and neatly packaged on a shelf.

The Roller Coaster Effect Book Image — Amazon.com

HOW TO OVERCOME FEAR

Fear has a large shadow, but he himself is small. – Ruth Gendler

Despite having faith in your life, it is important to discuss how fear can also creep in. Fear is a normal reaction that warns our bodies to be careful. Everyone experiences some level of fear in their life from time to time. However, coping with everyday fears can be frightening for most people. Keep in mind, it is impossible to think clearly when you’re feeling overwhelmed or fearful. You must be ready to face your fears head on so you can dictate how your story will end. Remember, you are the root cause of your fears, and most importantly, you can be the solution to them as well.

Here’s some ways to help you overcome fear:

Name your fear and face it. Believe it or not, fear is not always obvious.
Arm yourself by replacing fear with God’s presence.
Imagine your success, not your failures.
Act out your new story and visualize your happy place.
Don’t try to be perfect. Take time out to rest and re-set.
Practice mindfulness and focus on your breathing techniques.
Identify your fears by writing in your journal.

What makes you afraid? Questions help trigger your fears and bring them to the surface. Remember, fear will consume you if you allow it. Dig deep inside to gain encouragement and strength to move passed your fear so you can proceed with taking the leap of faith that you desire.

WAYS TO HELP BOOST COURAGE

Fear is a reaction. Courage is a decision. – Winston S. Churchill

Next, many situations occur in life that call upon us to do something we find scary, upsetting, uncomfortable, anxiety provoking, or distressing. We have to learn how to move out of our comfort zone throughout this journey called life, so we can develop, grow, and expand both our mental and physical capacity. Are you up for the challenge? I sure hope you are.

Here’s some ways to help boost your courage:

Don’t overthink it. Once you’ve decided to do anything in life that requires courage, don’t wait, proceed to act.
Commit yourself ahead of time. Stating intentions to your support system will make you be accountable, and you will follow through with the activity.
Do the activity with a friend. Recruit a friend or family member to participate in the activity. Interacting with another person is a true way of managing fear and anxiety.
Think of how good you’ll feel afterwards. Give some serious thought to how great you’ll feel about yourself after you take this leap of faith. You will feel more confident and increase your determination.
Think of the doors that would open for you. If you struggle with courage and anxiety issues, you may need to seek help from a mental health professional or support group. Take some time to consider all the ways your life could be different if you were able to tackle your issue(s) successfully and use the motivation this process gives you to take the necessary step.

Faith rests on a solid foundation. The evidence is everywhere before our eyes. Begin to create a safe space for God to work wonders in your spiritual life by reading God’s Word, praying often, and submitting to God’s healing. God wants your heart, gratitude, and honesty which will bring you to His everlasting peace. My prayer for you today is that you take the words from this blog post and hide them deep in your heart. Remember, every positive change in life must first begin with a commitment to work towards that change. You will notice the little seeds of courage starting to sprout all around you. Take a deep breath and capture the moment. Despite the fear you may feel because you are entering an unknown territory, embrace your true feelings and take a leap of faith knowing that courage is not just around you, but within you. Faith is all about believing. You don’t know how it will happen, but you know it will.

FAITH AFFIRMATIONS

Don’t dig up in doubt what you planted in faith. – Elisabeth Elliot

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself, boost confidence, mood, and self-esteem. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience. Through the incredible power of repetition, you’re able to reconstruct your thought patterns, beliefs, and ideals in your subconscious mind. Begin to set yourself up for a more productive and successful life that you desire by reciting these powerful faith-based affirmations.

Here’s a few faith-based affirmations to help you get started:

All that I seek I can find within me.
I trust that my faith in the universe will reveal all opportunities for me.
I focus on what I can control and make peace with what I can’t.
I trust my inner knowing in the face of uncertainty.
I choose faith over fear and peace over perfection.
I am ready to move ahead and explore the purpose of my existence.
I trust and believe that everything is always working out for my highest good.
I am at peace with my whole being.
I see my faith, presence and passion being the most beautiful things there are in my life.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Faith is building on what you know is here so you can reach what you know is there. – Cullen Hightower

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Keep in mind that journaling is a safe space for you to put your feelings and emotions into words, then put your words into action. Journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes, and failures. Ready, set, write!

What is the best way to increase your faith and decrease your fear?
How can you strengthen your faith in God?
What is going on in your life that could benefit in you standing on your faith?
Why is it difficult to face your fears?
What does it look like for you to take a step of courage today?
Write about a door you know God has closed in your life. How did you find the courage to work through this experience?
Have there been times in your life when you’ve needed to be courageous? Take a moment to write about the situation and what you did to overcome your fears.
List five ways you’ve become stronger and more faithful today, this week, or this month.

SELF-REFLECTION MOMENT

Your mind will always believe everything you tell it. Feed it faith. Feed it truth. Feed it with love. – Unknown Author

Unwavering faith will come with time, but you have to do the work which includes following God’s plan for your life, changing your thought patterns, and making time for self-reflection. Now, take a moment to think about the concept of increasing faith and decreasing fear. How strong is your faith right now in this very moment? How often do you spend time reflecting on your life or daily situations? Please spend some quality time answering these questions in your journal or notebook. Then, share your thoughts concerning this blog post in the comment section below so we can learn and grow from one another. I look forward to hearing from you very soon.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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How To Live More Intentional

LaPorterJuly 16, 20231 Reply

Be more intentional about who you want to become. – Brendon Burchard

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, let’s discuss how to live more intentional. It’s really not that complicated. Once you decide to live a more intentional lifestyle, you need to make necessary lifestyle changes and spend time in self-reflection mode.

Here’s the definition:

INTENTIONAL (adjective): Performed with awareness; done deliberately consciously or on purpose.

Intentional choices are deliberate and purposeful decisions you need to make. You must always be thinking ahead. Being intentional in life causes you to make choices based on your personal values, beliefs and goals. You must also consider your daily tasks, managing work-life balance, practicing self-care and working toward self-improvement.

In order to live more intentional, you need clear understanding of your:

Purpose in life
Passions you wish to pursue
Prayer time and spiritual growth
Actions, thoughts, and words
Need to set personal goals
Willingness to be kind and practice gratitude toward others
Determination and the willingness to become more resilient
Commitment to establishing healthy habits and lifestyle

HOW TO LIVE MORE INTENTIONAL

Intentional living is the art of making our own choices before others’ choices makes us. – Richie Norton

Intentional living is all about focusing on your purpose and core values. Believe it or not, anyone can choose to live more intentional, but the key to success is understanding what this concept means to you on a personal level. Once you have a clear understanding, then you need to make necessary adjustments within your lifestyle to work toward this end goal.

Here’s a few suggestions that you can include in your lifestyle so you can live more intentional:

Set measurable goals – Know your values and set clear SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, timely).
Establish a daily routine – Create consistent morning & evening routines.
Strengthen your relationships – Establish supportive & accountable relationships.
Make a vision board – Have a constant reminder in front of you.
Declutter & organize your space – Be organized. Look around you. Clean your space. Does it add value? If it doesn’t, remove it.
Don’t waste time – Spend time on what matters most to you.
Self–awareness – Examine your behavior, actions should match your core values & priorities.
Expressing Gratitude – be grateful, establish a regular gratitude practice.
Monitor your health – Be aware of your emotions & state of mind. Are you feeling out of balance or overwhelmed?

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SET A DAILY INTENTION

Our intention creates our reality. – Wayne Dyer

Naming your personal values is the foundation of living an intentional life. Any kind of change requires awareness and intentional action on your part. Setting a daily intention each morning is a simple practice in which you bring awareness to your own thoughts and actions. Pause for a moment and decide what you want to experience that day. Then, answer these questions in your journal or notebook:

What does an ideal day look like for you?
Why are these things important to you?
What are some activities that bring you fulfillment?
What does these activities have in common?
What do you wish you had more of? Less of?
How do you want to feel today?
How do you want to show up in the world?
What kind of energy do you want to attract?

Now, take a moment to examine your responses and commit to set a daily intention for yourself. Your daily intention may be a few words or a sentence. It may serve as a reminder of how you’d like to behave that day and the choices you’d like to make.

Simply complete the following statement in your journal or notebook:

Today I intend to ____________________________.

Examples:

Be present in the moment.
Focus on feeling good.
Be my most authentic self.
Spread love and kindness.
Be on time.
Make healthier food choices.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes.

It’s important to recount your intentions at the end of the day. For example, in the evening or before bedtime, replay the ways you contributed to living with purpose and intention. You could do this mentally, but I suggest taking time to write in your journal or notebook to keep track of how much you’re doing things with intention each day.

BENEFITS FROM LIVING MORE INTENTIONAL

If you’re going to grow, you have to be intentional. – Curt Kampmeier

Intentional living means building your life around your core beliefs and values. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life, just choose an area of your life to infuse intentionality into activities you’re already doing and actions you’re already taking. When you make the decision to live more intentional, you will notice many benefits that will improve your mind, body and spirit.

There are benefits for those who choose to live more intentional. You may feel:

A sense of empowerment when making future decisions.
An improvement with your mental health.
Reduced stress levels.
An improvement with your focus by removing distractions and clearing your mind.
A boost in your resilience.
More present, in tune, and capable to complete tasks.
Encouraged and optimistic.
A need to set healthy boundaries and to protect your energy.
Clarity around choices you’re making.
A boost in your self-confidence.
More enjoyment and pleasure out of life.

I’m hopeful that you’ve read something here that would encourage you to live more intentional. Afterall, an intentional life brings meaning, profound satisfaction, and fulfillment because you’re living in a way that’s true to who you are and your core values.

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INTENTIONAL AFFIRMATIONS

Living intentionally means choosing what will serve our highest self. – Unknown Author

Here’s a few intentional affirmations to help you get started:

I am fully present, and my intentional actions will bring me closer to my goals.
I create an authentic life reflecting who I am right now and who I’d like to be.
I am determined to see results from my efforts.
I am a do-er and I am ready to create the experiences I want for my life.
I attract only good things into my life.
I am intentional inspired and ignited.
I will take action and get things accomplished.
When my intentions are clear, the Universe cooperates with me.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Be intentional to add value to every person you meet every day. – John C. Maxwell

What do you need today?
What is an affirmation that can help you today?
What can you do to make today pleasurable?
What does your ideal day look like?
What time of day are you most productive? Why do you think that is?
What has been inspiring you lately?
What have you always wanted to do, but haven’t gotten around to it? What is stopping you?
What is the last good habit you developed? How did you do it?
What has been worrying you lately? How has that been playing out in your life?

Please let me know how these journaling prompts work for you in the comments below. Remember to reflect on your journals often to help you make the most of the process. I look forward to reading your responses!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Choose Joy Over Pain

LaPorterJuly 4, 20232 Replies

Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day. -H. Nouwen

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! First, I want to apologize for being away for so long. Even though writing is my passion, the last few months have been a struggle for me mentally, physically, and emotionally. Despite all of the pain I’ve experienced recently, God saw fit to put an angel into my life to not only encourage me through my painful moments, but also, they suggested that I write about the joy that I am feeling now. For that blessing, I will forever be thankful.

So, today my writing focus is centered around how wonderful it feels to welcome joy back into your life once again. Now, let’s take a moment to define JOY.

JOY (noun): The emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation.

Believe it or not, you can recognize joy by the physical sensations it triggers within your whole body.

Here’s a few examples:

You may feel excited and warm all over.
Your breathing becomes faster.
Your heartbeat increases.
Your eyes may light up and begin to twinkle.
You may have an irrepressible smile on your face.

There’s no doubt about it, joy does not just appear in your life. You have to make the decision to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.

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WHAT ARE SIGNS OF JOY?

Joy is the holy fire that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow. – Helen Kellar

Joy has a way of working its way from the inside out. When our lives are filled with joy, we spread the same positive energy to those people around us. Joy is infectious, transmittable, spreadable, and catching. Simply put, joy is contagious!

Here’s a few signs of joy that you may experience in your life from time to time:

You express gratitude regularly.
You choose your authentic self.
You enjoy simple things in life.
You are present and live in the moment.
You create harmonious relationships.
You keep your inner critic on mute.
You strive to live your life with integrity.
You are not afraid of change.
You make room for what you are passionate about.
You make opportunities for laughter.
You set a goal(s) outside of your comfort zone.

Do any of these experiences sound familiar to you? As you continue your journey in life, pay attention to how you feel in various situations. Don’t be afraid to make mental and physical adjustments as you see fit in order to experience joy more frequent.

WHAT IS THE PUREST FORM OF JOY?

Love is spoken here. Joy is chosen here. Grace is given here. – Unknown Author

The purest form of joy can be found in ordinary moments, and those moments can happen any place where gratitude is alive. When God’s joy fills your mind, body and spirit it bestows on you a beauty that radiates from within. As you spend quality time with God (reading God’s Word, prayer, meditation, spiritual journaling), you will find that God is your sole source of joy. God brings joy into your life by answering your prayers, offering wisdom, His Word, and blessings from on high.

Here’s some ways to find your purest form of joy in life:

Schedule time daily to read God’s Word, pray and meditate.
Express yourself daily by writing in your journal.
Sing fun, upbeat and inspirational songs.
Recite positive affirmations and inspirational quotes.
Listen to inspirational podcasts.
Focus on the positive things in life, not the negative.
Surround yourself with joyful and God-fearing people.
Talk about joyful things that you enjoy.
Find your passion and share it with others.
Sprinkle joy and positive vibes around like confetti.
Share your joyful experiences with others throughout life.

Remember, joy is a gift of God and should be your strong foundation so when rough times and unexpected emotions arise in your life, joy will remain constant.

JOYFUL AFFIRMATIONS

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

My life is amazing, and it gets better every day.
I am joyful every day and create joy for others.
I know exactly what brings me joy and make sure to keep these things close.
I have energy and joy bursting inside of me.
I am always looking at the bright side and can easily find joy in the little things.
I move forward with joy and grace.
I deserve joy and I express joy. Then, life returns the favor.
I am worthy of joy, abundance and love in my life.
The root of my joy is gratefulness.
I always surround myself with things that bring me joy.
My heart is so full of joy that it creates ripples of happiness in the hearts of everyone around me.

ACTION – Write two “I am” statements that make you feel joyful and recite them daily.

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

There is no joy without gratitude. – Brene Brown

Would you choose joy over pain? Why or why not?
What brings joy into your life?
What makes your life feel fulfilled?
What’s one thing you can do right now to be more connected to joy?
Write about a joyful experience and include all of your senses: touch, sight, sound, taste and smell.
What are three words or phrases that come to mind when you think of joy? Write about them.
What in your life has evoked the most joy?
What is something that you’ve overcome in life?
Where do you feel out of alignment with the things that bring you peace and joy?

Remember to ponder on God’s Word and His promises of future joy in your life often. Let the hope fill your heart until you receive God’s radiant and everlasting joy. Exceedingly great joy will be yours forever. Why? Because you stepped out in faith to choose joy over pain. May God continue to shine forth like the sun itself within your life. Peace and blessings!

Let’s Talk. Joy creates a positive excitement that uplifts and expands you. How do you plan to bring joy back into your life? Please share your thoughts. I look forward to reading your responses!

WRITER & BLOGGER CORNER

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Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Accept God’s Grace

LaPorterMay 7, 2023Leave a Reply

I don’t know exactly what’s next but I’m stepping forward with grit, anchored in grace. -Julie Graham

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Despite how we sometimes act, God still loves us unconditionally and shows us grace. Grace is that attribute of God that enables us to break free of our sinful nature and follow God’s lead. Grace gives us strength, protection, and much needed direction. Most importantly, grace changes everything in our lives and all around us.

DEFINE GRACE

GRACE (noun): The free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.

God’s grace is adequate for anything and everything that you experience in this life. Despite what prompted the hurt or disappointment you’ve experienced throughout your life’s journey, know that with time God’s grace can bring peace, hope, and healing.

GOD’S EXTRAVAGANT GIFT – HIS GRACE

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ACCEPT GOD’S GRACE

THROUGH FORGIVENESS – Trust God’s grace by receiving forgiveness. Learn how to forgive yourself and clear your conscience.

PRAISE & WORSHIP – Take time to sing, dance or write God a love note. Express yourself to God often in your own way. Open your heart to receive God’s love and goodness.

AMAZON RESOURCE

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PRAYER

Heavenly Father, Master Grace Giver, thank you for giving me grace each and every day. Help me to become an extender of grace to others even when they don’t deserve it. I will never forget the price you paid to set me free, and for this I want to say thank you. Amen

AFFIRMATIONS

Affirmations will help you to focus on improving yourself. You can spend 5 – 10 minutes in meditation, journaling, or yoga with mantras. Self-love, positivity, open-mindedness, help set you in the right direction. Designate a time in the morning and at night when you can recite affirmations aloud. By saying them aloud, you hear the powerful words, and it can help you internalize them as true. The key to seeing a positive change in life is to say the affirmations with conviction and make it a personal experience.

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

I allow and embrace the Grace of God.
I am using God’s grace to navigate through life.
I carry myself with poise, grace, and dignity.
I see all the beauty and grace which is around me with loving gratitude.
I live my life with grace, elegance and perfect peace.
I am thankful for the limitless overflowing source of abundance.
I am always creating a new course of action through God’s love, guidance, and grace.

AMAZON RESOURCE

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JOURNAL PROMPTS

What has prevented you from accepting God’s grace?
How can you improve your spiritual walk and increase your spiritual growth?
In what spiritual area do you need to improve?
What is one thing you can do to improve my prayer life?
What does God’s grace feel like?
What do I need to mute in my life in order to hear God’s voice?

Let’s Talk. Without God’s grace, we will not have growth and we would be lost souls. How has reading God’s Word, praying and journal writing brought you closer to God? Please share your thoughts. I look forward to reading your responses!

WRITER & BLOGGER CORNER

Pixistock is a valuable resource that provides you with original content ideas in planner format, monthly, and the graphics to go with it to help speed up the content creation process.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Benefits of Finding Hope Within

LaPorterApril 23, 20233 Replies

Where faith exists, there exists great hope. – Ranal Currie

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Hope is an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes with respect to events and circumstances in one’s life. When you have lost hope, you have lost everything.

Finding hope within is important because:

Hope is a healer. It whispers to you, “Things will get better.”
Hope is a motivator. It helps you see something better coming up ahead.
Hope is self-belief. It gives you the belief that you have the power to change any outcome.
Hope is inner peace. It helps to transform your spirit from chaos to calm.
Hope is contagious. It is spread from person to person.

BENEFITS OF FINDING HOPE WITHIN

Hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay. – Maya Angelou

Instead of allowing negative feelings to overwhelm you during difficult times, let’s focus on the benefits of finding hope within. So, where does the thought of finding hope within come from? It’s simple. Deep inside we feel an expectation that something good will happen in the future. Despite all the negativity that goes on around us, most people strive to anticipate positive outcomes in their lives. Finding hope within:

Offers one a reason for living.
Helps build resilience in the face of adversity.
Helps control your emotions and sets the mood for the day.
Gives you room for self-expression.
Allows you to believe in your dream.
Reduces stress and anxiety.
Supports mental strength and happiness.
Improves overall health and encourages a healthy lifestyle.

WAYS TO EMBRACE HOPE WITHIN YOUR LIFE

May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears. – Nelson Mandela

Once you find hope within, it’s important to find ways to embrace it wholeheartedly. After all, hope is our energy, our fuel for living each day. Without hope in our lives, we lack the necessary energy to engage with life itself. Living a hopeful life is to recognize that everything and everyone matters, even you.

Here’s some ways to embrace hope within your life:

Regain control of your life and destiny.
Recognize that you can change your life at any time.
Be mindful of your expectations and shift them when necessary.
Reflect on past success and believe you can achieve your goals.
Disconnect from news outlets and social media often.
Listen to another person’s story to help clear your head.
Find creative ways to handle stress and disappointment (yoga, meditation, reading).
Establish a daily self-care routine that helps to calm you (journaling, to-do list).
Create honest and authentic relationships with active listeners and learn to forgive.
Develop a daily journal writing habit to release negative experiences and emotions.
Get outside and enjoy the big world that surrounds you.
Harness the power of uncertainty.

Hope can empower you to create and sustain a more positive future in many areas of your life. Hope is the one thing that can help us get through the darkest of times. Never stop believing in hope because miracles happen every day. You never know what tomorrow may bring.

AFFIRMATIONS

Hope is the only thing stronger than fear. – Unknown Author

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

Today is full of hope and possibilities.
I am worthy of the purpose that God has called me to.
I value and honor my boundaries.
I feel powerful, capable, confident, and energetic.
I learn from all my mistakes.
I feel comfortable in my own skin.
I believe that life brings me only the best.
I move at the perfect pace.
I allow God to guide everything I do.
I have hope, and I am hope.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Where there is hope, there is faith. Where there is faith, miracles happen. – Unknown Author

Define hope and make sure to provide examples.
What are you hopeful for on today?
Have you ever given up hope on something or someone?
Did you ever regain that hope again over time?
How can you change your negative thought patterns and become hopeful again?
What words inspire you, move you and make you feel hopeful?
What advice would you give a person who has lost hope?

Let’s Talk. Let’s talk. Hope helps us to appreciate life and everything life has to offer. Do you struggle with being hopeful while living in such a negative world? Do you find yourself hoping for a brighter future? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your responses!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Rise Above Writing Challenges

LaPorterMarch 29, 2023Leave a Reply

Writing is thinking. To write well is to think clearly. That’s why it’s so hard. – David McCullough

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Although writing is my passion, I sometimes struggle with scheduling time to write and getting the words to flow from mind on to paper. I often ask myself why writing is so hard to do sometimes even though it’s an important way for me to express myself and to encourage other writers to do the same.

Whether it’s inspiring blog content, an inspirational essay or chapters in a book, always start your writing sessions with clear and concise writing goals.

My current writing goals for 2023:

To provide inspirational and uplifting blog content.
To provide helpful resources to my email list.
To organize my thoughts and feelings during my daily journal writing.
To write and self-publish at least two more journals and one E-Book.

RISE ABOVE WRITING CHALLENGES

You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have. – Maya Angelou

Before we can address how to rise above writing challenges, it’s important to discuss the reasons why people love to write in the first place. As Maya Angelou once wrote, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you.” Some people have found the courage to share their stories of hope and encouragement with others to help them overcome various challenges in life. Writing can also help you to:

Inspire, encourage and motivate others to do something
Teach and establish expertise in a specific area
Share ideas and your passion for writing
Cope with life and its many challenges
Express yourself and share creative writing with others
Make money by selling your own books and products
Expand your knowledge base and research

Often times people live a life full of disappointment, unhappiness, and heartache. I believe that it’s the writer’s responsibility to show people their inner potential and ability to create happiness in life. In addition, the writer’s words can help people change their lifestyles and encourage them to grow from within.

Here’s some productive ways to rise above writing challenges:

Change your mindset – You must believe in yourself and stop the negative self-talk. Instead, build yourself up by reciting positive quotes and affirmations.
Create a writing schedule – Prioritize your writing time and create a writing schedule that you can stick to. However, be kind and provide yourself some grace when you need a break.
Turn off your inner critic – Give yourself permission to write freely and know that it’s okay to make mistakes. You have no time for self-doubt or fear, but instead encourage yourself often.
Join writer’s groups or find an accountability partner – There’s something powerful about being around like-minded individuals. Check your social media accounts for interested writers who are willing to be your accountability writing partner.
Regular journal writing – Regular journal writing can help improve your overall writing skills. In addition, journal writing can provide you with additional writing topics as well.

HOW TO CHANGE YOUR MINDSET

A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory. – Arthur Golden

As you set yourself up for success throughout your writing journey, focus on how you plan to change your mindset by doing the following:

Embrace positive thoughts which equal to positive outcomes.
Admit that your thinking needs to be adjusted at times.
Seek positive support from family, friends, and support groups.
Immerse yourself in personal growth – Read inspirational books or listen to motivational podcasts.
Forward thinking will move your focus away from where you don’t want to be to where you could be.
Take mini breaks from social media and focus on self-care.

AFFIRMATIONS

Write like it matters, and it will. – Libba Bray

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

Today is full of possibilities.
I am open to inspiration and creativity.
My writing persists no matter what is happening around me.
I am powerful, fearless, wise, and humble.
There are no limits to what I can achieve.
I am grateful for all the new experiences.
Difficult times are temporary, and I will become stronger from them.
I am allowed to be bold and take up space.

I have really enjoyed my blogging experience and the time spent writing my journals. I have met so many wonderful and talented bloggers/authors along my writing journey. Although writing has helped me stay grounded in my life, inspiring people has got to be one of the most rewarding parts for being a writer. Today, I encourage you to acknowledge your temporary setbacks and keep rising above your writing challenges. Only this kind of persistence will allow you to pour your heart and soul into your written work. Peace, blessings, and happy writing!

JOURNAL PROMPTS

To gain your own voice, you have to forget about having it heard. – Allen Ginsberg

What inspires you to write, blog, and be creative?
What are your short-term and long-term writing goals?
How have you been getting in the way of achieving of your writing goals?
What makes you proud of yourself right now in this very moment?
How do you respond to setbacks and failure?
What is one negative behavior you need to let go this year?
What is keeping you from changing your mindset?
How do you plan to keep your positive and uplifting mindset?

Let’s Talk. Whether you are ready to admit it or not, you’re able to rise above writing challenges. Why do you enjoy writing? How long have you been writing? What are some of your writing goals? What are some helpful tips you can share with new writers? I would love to hear from you. Share your thoughts/answers in the comment section.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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Benefits of Journaling

LaPorterMarch 20, 20239 Replies

Journaling is paying attention to the inside for the purpose of living well from the inside out. – Lee Wise

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, let’s talk about the benefits of journaling. Journaling allows you to gain clarity inside and out. Journaling also helps you to make positive changes in your life. If you allow it, journaling will offer you a glimpse into your soul in its purest form.

Before we get started, please make sure you have the following:

An open mind; Meditation ready
Willingness to express oneself; Eager to move from one place to another freely
Humble and caring spirit; Broken soul
Journal or Notebook
Pen or Pencil

I want to encourage you to pause for a moment and look within. Create awareness of your overall energy, how you feel and what you’re thinking. Believe it or not, journaling can be another form of self-reflection. Journaling can make you aware of negative patterns in your behavior so you can focus on the present moment.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

Journal writing, when it becomes a ritual for transformation, is not only life-changing but life-expanding. – Jen Williamson

What’s the message that you need on today? What is it that you need to focus on within your life, right now, in this very moment? During your lifelong journey, it’s important for you to speak positive words into your soul. Despite the hurt you may feel or the sadness you experience in life, often times you forget that the power to overcome life’s challenges is already inside you. If you feel lost or defeated, it’s because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together you will find peace. Although, there’s a lot of benefits of journaling, here’s a few that I want to share with you.

Journaling:

Helps you think more critically about your life.
Reduces stress and anxiety by keeping you in the present moment.
Allows you to recognize and release negative thoughts and feelings.
Increases your happiness in life and improves your mood.
Encourages inner peace and a feeling of well-being.
Provides self-discovery, self-awareness, and moments of reflection.
Helps you gain clarity in your life, better memory.
Increases creativity, positivity, and mindfulness.
Builds resilience and confidence.
Helps to organize and process your thoughts and feelings.
Improves your sleep and overall mental wellness.

As you can see, making the decision to practice journaling will bring mindfulness, peace, and emotional healing into your daily routine.

JOURNALING TIPS

Journal writing gives us insights into who we are, who we were, and who we can become. – Sandra Marinella

There is no wrong or right way to practice journaling, just write! Journaling is a great way to release restless thoughts and emotions so you can be in a better headspace. Include journaling in your daily routine so you can heal any emotional, physical or mental wounds that may have been caused by negativity from others or internally. Here’s some great journaling tips to help you get started:

Create a safe place to write; Declutter your space; Add your preferred lighting and scented candles; You should feel good, happy and calm in your writing space.
Let it all out; Allow your thoughts to flow freely and write about anything.
Dedicate time and write regularly; Try to write in your journal on a regular basis; Every day is ideal.
Try new things; Move out of your comfort zone; Try things that make you happy; Write letters to yourself or to loved ones (past or present).
Don’t get too negative; Shift your writing in another direction; Avoid rereading your negative writing, but instead have a balanced point of view.

What’s your story or experience concerning journaling? It’s important to allow yourself to feel and to express yourself honestly throughout this process. I choose to reflect on inspiring quotes, affirmations and/or scriptures that are hidden in my heart during my journaling time in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc. Remember, this is a personal journey. Be sure to show yourself some grace while starting the journaling experience. It’s important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace, and joy throughout the process.

AFFIRMATIONS

Affirmation without discipline is the beginning of delusion. – Jim Rohn

Here’s a few of my favorite affirmations to help you get started:

I am a unique, creative, and wonderful black woman who keeps growing by the day.
I am learning to love, cherish, and respect myself.
I am using the wisdom within me to navigate through my life.
I am releasing my connection to things that don’t serve me.
I am patient and know that growth may take time.
I am blessed with every challenge I have faced.
I am consciously working hard to bring the best out of every moment I am given.
I am always creating a new course of action because I am unstoppable.
I am embracing my full potential even if it makes others uncomfortable.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

In the journal I do not just express myself more openly than I could to any person; I create myself. – Susan Sontag

What is something that has been weighing on your mind lately?
What do you see as your biggest accomplishment? failure?
Do you have any regrets about how you’ve lived your life so far?
What have you done to make amends and/or forgive yourself?
What is the most important thing you have learned about yourself in the past year?
If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?
What can you do right now to lift your mood?
How can you make this week a better one than last?

Let’s Talk. As you can see, journaling has many benefits that can help you overcome any obstacle that you face in life. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges in life? After reading this blog post, what resonates with you? I would love to hear from you? Please answer these questions in the comment section.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

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