Personal Journey – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Worthy Enough To Shine

LaPorterJuly 28, 20204 Replies

I am worthy of the very best in life, and I now lovingly allow myself to accept it. – Louise Hay

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am worthy. I am loved. I am whole. I am enough. I choose to shine bright on today. How about you? Now, it’s important to note that the ways I choose to shine may be different than yours on any given day, but the end result should be the same, we’re worthy enough to shine! Our lives should be an example and reflect positive vibes through the eyes of others. For example, it seems like random people always offer me positive compliments regarding my smile or grateful compliments for the kind gestures that I showed them (holding the door open or just saying hello or good morning). Despite how dark it is all around us, we are all worthy enough to shine so let’s get to it.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

WAYS TO KNOW YOUR WORTH

The only keeper of your happiness is you. Stop giving people the power to control your smile, your worth and your attitude. – Mandy Hale, SimpleReminders.com

Remember, that at any moment you can choose to feel whole again and worthy, no matter what is or isn’t in your life. You need nothing to feel worthy except your realization that you are. Nowadays, it’s so important to know your worth.

Here’s some great ways to know your worth:

Be yourself and be your own inspiration.
Set reasonable goals for yourself.
Be kind to yourself and take back your personal power.
Build on your strengths, not weaknesses.
Be decisive and take risks.
Have faith, show gratitude, and stay hopeful.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

WAYS TO SHINE

Your value doesn’t decrease based on someone’s inability to see your worth. – Unknown Author

Even when I am not feeling well or just simply having a bad day, I try hard not to reflect my negative vibes and feelings toward others. As we travel along this journey called life, we will experience some ups and downs. However, the way we respond to life’s challenges is the key to overcoming the obstacles that occur in our lives.

Here’s some great ways to shine throughout your life during difficult times:

Read God’s Word, pray and meditate.
Smile and believe in yourself. Yes, believe in the awesome person you’re becoming.
Show kindness everywhere you go. Especially, to unkind people.
Forgive people who don’t deserve it. Then, let it go.
Acknowledge your patterns of stress and release them into the atmosphere.
Move out of your comfort zone throughout your journey so you can grow.
Allow yourself time to heal from life’s challenging moments.
Be gentle and patient with yourself. Practice self-care routines.
Love unconditionally. Find time for self-reflection and to write in your journal.

Every situation in life is meant to be temporary. When life is going as planned, make sure to enjoy every moment. And when life is not going as planned, know that it will not last forever and better days are sure to follow.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Your greatest obstacle and your greatest strength stare back at you in the mirror every day. – Unknown Author

I love journaling because it is a safe place for me to put my feelings and emotions into words, then put my words into action. Remember, journaling is your very own personal journey throughout life, your ups and downs, your successes and failures. In addition, 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 this is a journey. Everyone takes their own path. Ready, set, write!

- Do you feel worthy enough to shine?
- How well do you really know yourself?
- Where does your mind wander throughout the day?
- Do you strive to learn something new every day?
- What do you need to do to become healthier (inside and out)?
- What are some things that you want to change in your life?
- What would you do if you can travel into the past?

Free Colorful and Creative Stock Photos

WORTHY ENOUGH TO SHINE KEEPSAKE

You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody. – Maya Angelou

Please accept this WORTHY ENOUGH TO SHINE keepsake. Post it on your wall, mirror and/or social media accounts and cherish it always.

Renew Inspiration, Worthy Enough To Shine, Keepsake, Yellow Flower, Nature, Sunshine, Bloom — Worthy Enough To Shine – Renew Inspiration

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Your worth can never be determined by someone else. You don’t have to prove yourself to anyone. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Remember, your actions will always reflect who you are so the closer you get to being who you are meant to be…the brighter you shine! How do you choose to shine during life’s most difficult times? Please share your responses in the comment below so we can learn and grow together. I am excited to hear from you. Until next time, stay encouraged, stay healthy, and stay safe!

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).

Conquering Self-Doubt

LaPorterApril 26, 2020Leave a Reply

Your self-doubt does not define who you are or what you are capable of. – Unknown Author

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).

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I hope you and your families are healthy and safe during this difficult time. Michigan’s Governor has extended our Stay-At-Home Order until May 15th.
Now, we have more time on our hands to spend with family and to do things that have been on our bucket lists for a long time.

But let’s face it, it is hard to start projects, whether it is writing a book, training for a 5K, going back to school, changing jobs or any other dream you may have. The moment you take that first step on your journey, the moment you start working toward your dream, little seeds of self-doubt begins to plant fear in your mind. 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 know that conquering self-doubt is possible.

Self-doubt can:

• Hold you back from opportunities

• Make things harder than they need to be

• Increase fear and anxiety

• Cause you to be stuck in the comparison trap

• Force you to live in the past

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

COMMON CAUSES OF SELF-DOUBT

Self-doubt inflicts the deepest wounds. – Unknown Author

According to the Webster Dictionary, self-doubt can be defined as having lack of confidence in oneself and one’s abilities. Did you know that self-doubt is the most common reason why people fail throughout his or her life journey? Many people spend way too much time overanalyzing and overthinking everyday life situations, goals, dreams, and challenges.

Here’s some common causes of self-doubt that people may encounter:

• Past experiences, thoughts and mistakes reoccurring in his or her mind

• Childhood upbringing and/or trauma that was never dealt with growing up

• Lack of courage and self-confidence with oneself

• Getting caught up in comparisons with others

• The need to rise to new challenges and/or opportunities

• Having constant fear of failure and/or successes

• Struggling to overcome procrastination and meeting deadlines

• No willpower and lack of commitment when involved with projects and people

• Trying to live out other people’s dreams instead of his or her own

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

CONQUERING SELF-DOUBT

Self-doubt is contagious so be careful. – Unknown Author

Everyone handles situations in their lives differently. However, many situations occur in life that call upon us to do something we find scary, upsetting, uncomfortable, anxiety provoking, or distressing. However, it’s important for people to approach self-doubt head on and don’t allow excuses to interfere with decision making.

Here’s some ways to assist with conquering self-doubt:

• Ground yourself and don’t overthink it.

• Commit yourself ahead of time and tell negative voices to stop.

• Take a break and get a boost of optimism through the journaling process.

• Listen to encouraging podcast and read self-development books.

• Nurture healthy relationships by doing fun activities with family or a friend.

• Create a set of mantras, positive quotes or affirmations for on-going support.

• Find a licensed therapist or support group that you feel comfortable with.

UPLIFTING AFFIRMATIONS

I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, joy, and happiness. – Unknown Author

Every day I grow closer to my highest self. I remove any sign of self-doubt from my very being. I believe in the person I dream of becoming. My energy is powerful and positive. I am a powerful woman who supersedes everything I put my mind to. I am unstoppable, powerful, confident, and simply amazing. Affirmations are created to help change our mindset.

Here’s some other uplifting affirmations you may want to live by:

• Everything that is happening now is happening for my ultimate good.

• Though these times are difficult, they are only a short phase of life.

• My ability to conquer my challenges is limitless: my potential to succeed is infinite.

• I am conquering my illness. I am defeating it steadily each day.

• Amazing opportunities exist for me in every aspect of my life.

Always remember that you deserve to be happy. You deserve to live a life you are excited about. Don’t let other people make you forget that. Remember, don’t get caught up in the comparison trap instead remove the distractions. Let go of excuses and trust yourself. Think of the doors that would open for you. If you struggle with self-doubt 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.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Inhale confidence, exhale doubt. – Unknown Author

• What does it look like for you to take a step of courage right in this very moment?

• List one dream you have for your life. What would this dream look like to be full of hope, even if you don’t know how your story is going to end?

• Write about a door you know God has closed in your life. How did you find the courage to work through this experience?

• What are five things that make you nervous or uncomfortable?

• What is it about each of these five things that bothers you most?

• 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.

• Is there someone in your life whom you would characterize as courageous? If so, write about what you admire about this person and their courage.

• Describe an area of your life in which you wish you were more courageous? What is it, and how would you benefit?

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

You are strong. You are brave. You are oh so loved. – Unknown Author

Let’s take a moment to share with one another. How are you planning on conquering self-doubt as it occurs in your life? What are some of your favorite affirmations? Do you journal often? If so, how does journaling help you conquer self-doubt?

Please share your responses in the comment below so we can learn and grow together. I am excited to hear from you. Until next time, stay encouraged, stay healthy, and stay safe!

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).

Thanksgiving Reflection

LaPorterNovember 28, 20198 Replies

My life is not perfect, but I am thankful for everything I have. – Unknown Author

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I AM THANKFUL

There is always something to be thankful for. – Unknown Author

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! I don’t know about you, but I have so much to be thankful for on today. Life is better when you smile from time to time, cry a little, laugh a lot, and are thankful for everything you’ve got.

Here’s just a few things that I am thankful for:

• I am thankful to still be in the land of the living.

• I am thankful for salvation and Jesus dying on the cross.

• I am thankful for my family and friends.

• I am thankful for our lovely home.

• I am thankful for reliable transportation.

• I am thankful for having a good portion of health and strength.

• I am thankful for having food to eat and clean water to drink.

• I am thankful for my Renew Inspiration blog.

• I am thankful for all of the support you give me throughout the year.

There is always something to be thankful for. Would you agree? Yes, even when we are in the midst of a storm in our life, we have to hold our head up and thank God for giving us the strength to overcome the many obstacles that come and go throughout our personal journey called life.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

TIME FOR REFLECTION

Be kind. Be thoughtful. Be genuine, but most of all be thankful. – Unknown Author

Now, I am going to ask you to step out of your comfort zone. Go to a quiet place, clear your mind, and make sure you have a pen/pencil and a notebook. Throughout life it’s important to make time for reflection and what better time to start than Thanksgiving Day. Take a deep breath and free your soul before assessing your own spiritual wellness.

Here’s the questions that you need to ask yourself:

• What gives my life meaning and purpose?

• What give me hope?

• How do I get through tough times? Where do I find comfort?

• Am I tolerant of other people’s views about life issues?

• Do I make attempts to expand my awareness of different ethnic, racial and religious groups?

• Do I make time for relaxation in my day?

• Do my values guide my decisions and actions?

My suggestion is to gather all of the questions at one time, but take your time to answer them. Then, it is important for you to be open and honest with yourself as well. There is no right or wrong way to complete this task. Finally, you need to re-visit your questions and answers from time to time.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

WAYS TO COPE DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

When life is sweet, say thank you and celebrate. When life is bitter, say thank you and grow. – Unknown Author

I am thankful for the gift of life and for those I am blessed to share this wonderful life with. I take nothing for granted during the holidays because I realize this can be a difficult and stressful time for most people for many reasons, such as the loss of a loved one, broken relationships, unemployment, depression, anxiety, just to name a few. Unfortunately, this is me in a nutshell. Despite experiencing all of these things in my life at one point or another, I am still thankful for all of it.

Everything that I have gone through has helped mold and shape me into the beautiful and smart woman I am today. Every single struggle and setback I encountered has made me a stronger, wiser and humble person. We have to humble ourselves in life, so we can learn from life lessons. Believe it or not, if I would not have gone through so much pain and heartache in life, my Renew Inspiration blog would not exist today.

Here’s some ways to help you cope during the holiday season:

• Pray and meditate to help clear your mind and uplift your spirit.

• Practice journaling often to express yourself. Remember, written expressions open doors to your soul.

• Read inspirational blogs, books or quotes to help boost self-confidence.

• Plan quiet time alone to gather your thoughts and feelings.

• Be honest with yourself and others. Never hold back how you feel. Open communication is healthy.

• Practice yoga or do stretches to help strengthen your body and help you relax.

• Exercise daily to move your body and boost energy.

• Participate in therapy sessions with a professional therapist for encouragement and support.

I am truly blessed with everything I need. I am working hard toward everything I want. And most of all, I appreciate and thank God for what I have. Thank you for your part in my journey! I appreciate you taking the time to read my Renew Inspiration blog, writing thoughtful and caring comments, and most of all, taking that leap of faith and subscribing to my blog. Take a moment and share my blog so that others may be blessed as well.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

The most beautiful way to start and end the day is with a grateful heart. – Unknown Author

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. Now, close your eyes and clear your mind. Grab your pen/pencil. Open your journal or notebook. Ready, set, write!

• What are you thankful for and why?

• What was the best thing that happened today?

• What immediately comes to mind when you think of your blessings?

• What accomplishments in your life have brought you most happiness?

• What hard parts of your life may contain hidden blessings?

• How can I make more space in my life for the things I love and enjoy?

• What can I do to nurture my spirit more throughout the week?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. So, grab your journal and write down at least 10 things that you are thankful for. As the day goes by, review your list and add to it as you see fit. What are some of your obstacles throughout this process? Share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Transitioning Back to Greatness

LaPorterNovember 17, 2019Leave a Reply

Move out of your comfort zone. You can only grow if you are willing to feel awkward and uncomfortable when you try something new. – Brian Tracy

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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Well, it is official after seven years of working part-time hours, I have accepted a full-time secretary position in an educational setting. I am excited and nervous about this transition. Even though I know this is a great opportunity, I feel my emotions and mind jumping all over the place. Simply put, I feel myself out of balance.

When we find ourselves out of balance, our lives may include challenges, such as burnout, health problems, financial distress, emotional eating, isolation, and relationship issues just to name a few. Don’t worry, take a deep breath, and know that it happens to the best of us. It’s important for you to know that transitioning back to greatness and regaining balance in life is the key to your peace and happiness.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF EMOTIONAL BALANCE

Life is a balance between holding on and letting go. – Rumi

While you’re traveling along your journey in life, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of maintaining emotional balance. After all, the characteristics of emotional balance allows you to participate in life to the fullest extent possible.

Here’s a list of the characteristics of emotional balance:

• A sense of contentment.

• A passion for living and enjoying life to the fullest.

• The ability to deal with stressful situations.

• The flexibility to learn new things and adapt to change.

• The ability to bounce back from adversity.

• A healthy level of self-confidence and self-respect.

• The ability to build and maintain fulfilling relationships.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

EXAMPLES YOUR LIFE IS OUT OF BALANCE

To lose balance sometimes for love is part of living a balanced life. – Elizabeth Gilbert

Moreover, to overcome this difficult challenge in life, you must first acknowledge that your life is out of balance. Don’t be afraid to address anything in your life that do not align with your lifestyle and beliefs.

Here’s some examples you may encounter when your life is out of balance:

• You find yourself reacting to everything in a negative way.

• You have unidentified and reoccurring health issues, such as fatigue or stress.

• You feel like every little thing is an emergency in your mind.

• You may be too tired to recognize or enforce your own emotional, personal, and professional boundaries.

• You constantly question your decisions in life and worry about everything.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

WAYS TO REGAIN BALANCE IN YOUR LIFE

Remain calm in every situation because peace equals power. – Joyce Meyer

Finally, once you’ve identified that there is an issue with your life, it is important to regain balance in your life by any means necessary.

Here’s some ways you can help regain balance in your life:

• Slow down. It is important to establish control over your time by slowing down.

• Live in the now. The fewer thoughts you have about your past or future, the more you’ll be present to your own inner spirit. Be realistic and determined all at the same time.

• Let go of control. Allow things to progress at their own pace so that you develop trust in the flow of life.

• Break old patterns. Simply breaking old habits one by one will begin to erode negative thought patterns and beliefs.

• Explore triggers to emotional highs and lows. It is important to avoid problems by identifying the root cause of your emotional challenges.

• Nurture yourself. Find time to be relaxed and happy throughout your day. For example, try meditation, getting a massage, reading a book, spending time in nature.

• Be determined to go back. Don’t make excuses. Instead, make a plan for returning to the workforce.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

You have been assigned this mountain to show others it can be moved. – Unknown Author

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. Now, close your eyes and clear your mind. Grab your pen/pencil. Open your journal or notebook. Ready, set, write!

• How does journaling help to improve your mental state?
• What is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned to date?
• What do you love about life?
• How can you incorporate self-care into your daily routine?
• What is something that you’ve overcome in life?
• How has journaling helped to improve your spiritual well-being?
• What do I need to mute in my life in order to hear God’s voice?
• What can you do today to help yourself get better aligned spiritually?

When you have made the decision to embrace life, regain balance, and transition back to greatness, you will focus on making your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t wait. Start today.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

It all begins in your mind. What you think, you become. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. When was the last time you lost your life balance? How do you regain balance? Have you found yourself transitioning back to greatness? Share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

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).

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day

LaPorterSeptember 25, 20191 Reply

Women's Health, Exercise, Well-Being, Fitness — pexels

You are capable of your healthiest and happiest life. – Unknown Author

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Special Thought – The body achieves what the mind believes.

Women's Health, Fitness, Exercise — National Women’s Health and Fitness Day 2019

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today is a great day for women everywhere. Did you know that women all over the world is celebrating National Women’s Health and Fitness Day today? Well, I have to be honest, I did not know until I was doing some research online. National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is the nation’s largest annual health promotion event for women of all ages. This wonderful day has been observed the last Wednesday of September since 2002.

What better way to celebrate and honor women that to write an inspirational blog post, right? I not only wanted to bring awareness to this special day, but also provide some ways that you can participate today, tomorrow, and forever!

Across the country, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 women of all ages plan to participate in health and fitness events in places, such as:

• Senior Centers
• Hospitals
• Health Clubs
• Schools
• Retirement Communities
• Houses of Worship
• Park and Recreation Centers
• Local Health and Service Organizations

The goal of this national event is to encourage women to take control of their health, to learn the facts they need to make smart choices, and to make time for regular physical activity throughout their personal journey.

AMAZON RESOURCES:

EMBRACE YOUR PERSONAL JOURNEY EVERY DAY

It’s never too early or too late to work toward being the healthiest you. – Unknown Author

Take a moment and visualize your life as you want it to be. Go to a quiet, private environment for 15 minutes every day where you can close your eyes and imagine your body, environment, relationships, and life in ways that please you. Always remember, what has been has nothing to do with what will be, and what others experience has nothing to do with your experience. This is the moment where you must find a way to separate yourself from all of the past and from the others in order to be what you want to be. Then, you will be able to embrace your personal journey one step at a time.

Believe it or not, you have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you. Do you believe this? Sometimes you have to be your own hero. Do you have the courage to do so? Just because you are struggling throughout your personal journey does not mean you are failing. Keep believing and the good things will happen. Always remember the one who falls and gets back up is so much stronger than the one who never fell at all. Your purpose is to fully be all that you are. Now, think about that for a moment. Look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself with confidence – I BELIEVE IN THE PERSON I’M BECOMING!

Positive Mantra – Positive Mind + Positive Vibes = Positive Life

Make your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. Be more positive, be happier, think positive & find greater success by doing the following:

• Write yourself a love letter.
• Learn something new from someone today.
• Choose a positive mantra and repeat it throughout the day.
• Keep good on promises to yourself and continue to work towards your goals.

AMAZON RESOURCE:

WALKING FOR FITNESS

Don’t let the scale define you. Be active. Eat healthy. Be happy. – Unknown Author

Walking for fitness is such a great way to get in your exercise. Depending on the weather, you can walk outdoors around your neighborhood or you can visit your local park to walk through the nature trail. Well, in Michigan the weather can be somewhat tricky, especially in the winter, so I choose to do my walk workouts in the comfort of my own home. One good thing that I have found, is when you choose to walk for fitness, you are in control of how fast you move or when it is important for you to slow down and rest. Remember, a consistent, moderate pace offers good cardiovascular benefits, but interval training delivers those gains sooner and in a shorter workout. Also, there is no wrong or right way to do a walk workout, just get up and start walking for fitness!

Here’s some additional health benefits when walking for fitness:

• Boosting your spirits and creativity

• Helping to clear your mind

• Protecting you from heart disease

• Lowering the rate of weight gain

• Strengthening your memory

• Decreasing your risk from some cancers

Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s start WALKING for better health and fitness!

AMAZON RESOURCE:

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Strength grows in the moments when you think you can’t go on but you keep going anyway. – Unknown Author

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. Upon entering the journaling process, you will find that you are able to reflect freely without judgement.

Now, take a few minutes every day to pour out your soul. Be open and honest. Set goals, make plans to achieve them, and check your progress throughout the process. Ready, set, write!

Close your eyes and clear your mind. Grab your pen/pencil. Open your journal or notebook. Then, use these helpful journal prompts to help you improve your health and fitness levels:

• What did you achieve today?

• What can you do right now to lift your mood?

• Define 3 things you can do to improve yourself.

• Describe a time when you had to make a really hard choice.

• Right now, my greatest challenge is _______________.

• My greatest qualities are _________________.

• What is most important in your life?

AMAZON RESOURCE:

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Your greatest obstacle and your greatest strength stare back at you in the mirror every day. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Do you like what you see in the mirror? What kind of healthy habits do you plan to start? How do you plan to increase your fitness levels? How do you plan to celebrate today? Please share your thoughts in the comments section. I look forward to reading your feedback!

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).

Seeking Wholeness Through Journaling

LaPorterApril 5, 20198 Replies

Seek to be whole, not perfect. – Oprah Winfrey

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Thought for the week – I am God’s masterpiece. – Ephesians 2:10

MY PERSONAL JOURNEY

The right way to wholeness is made up of fateful detours and wrong turnings. – C.G. Jung

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I’ve always kept a journal when growing up, but I never got serious about journaling until December 2015 when my world changed forever. I remember the details like it was yesterday. I received a dreadful call from the Physical Rehab facility stating that my mother was found unresponsive and I need to meet the ambulance at the hospital. I felt an immediate panic that I have never felt before. I got out of bed feeling numb all over and my thoughts were scattered between confused, scared, and sad. Since it was so late at night, I told my husband to stay home with our children. As I drove to the hospital alone, I had to make calls to some of my family members, but my brother was the only one who met me at the hospital. We sat in this small room waiting to be updated by the hospital staff, but 10 minutes seemed like hours. My mind was racing from one thought to another. The nurse finally walked in with no emotion on her face. She greeted us with a slight smile and hand shake. Then, we followed her down the long dark hall to the ER. As we entered the ER space and saw our mother hooked to so many machines, I felt sick. Her eyes were closed and restraints held her hands and feet. Even though she was not moving, I began to pray and talk to my mother not knowing if she could hear me. A part of me thought she was already gone, but I had to reach for any hope that was left. My mother fault a good fight, but she took her last breath on that cold December night.

It was then that I knew my life would no longer be the same. I was broken and my heart was shattered in many pieces. I became sad, depressed and secluded. Journaling became my everything. I wrote letters to my mother expressing how I was feeling. I wrote my thoughts and feelings in my journal as well. Some days I just wrote words and to be honest none of them made sense to me at the time, but I find myself reflecting on them often.

JOURNALING CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE

To change your life, you have to change yourself. To change yourself, you have to change your mindset. – Wilson Kanadi

Here’s some ways journaling can change your life so you can feel whole again:

• Helps you sort through life’s challenges and problems

• Release sadness and anger, in return, provides hope and peace

• Provides a safe place for expression that is considered a no judgment zone

• Offers an opportunity for personal reflection

• Allow yourself to experience personal growth and be present with oneself

GETTING STARTED WITH JOURNALING

You don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to be great. – Unknown Author

The process to get started with journaling is not difficult, but can seem overwhelming at first. Once you allow yourself to be free and honest, everything else will fall into place.

Here’s what you need to get started with journaling:

• Supplies – Choose a journal, notebook, computer, pen, pencil

• Space – Find a quiet and safe place where you can sit in comfort with very few distractions

• Time – Make a commitment to write in your journal at the same time every day even if it is only for 5 or 10 minutes

• Content Ideas – You can start with a list of what you’re grateful for; You can write down a Bible verse, inspirational quote or prayer; Write down your goals, hopes, and aspirations; Ask yourself questions, then answer them.

Be creative and make it personal. Use colorful pens, pencils or markers. Add stickers, pictures, or quotes. Draw pictures or write poetry. For additional journal prompts, please refer to any of my Renew Inspiration blogs.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

Journal writing is a voyage to the interior. – Christina Baldwin

Here’s some benefits of journaling:

• You begin to feel comfortable in your own skin

• You strive to create the life you desire

• You see what is working in your life and what is not

• Your relationships will improve over time

• You start to feel at peace with yourself

• You learn better coping skills

• You break old habits and learn new habits

• You learn how to live each day to the fullest

• You learn how to discover and align one’s vision and mission

POSITIVE AFFIRMATION STATEMENTS

I have the power to make changes. – Louise Hay

• I am worthy.

• I am the best me there is.

• I am capable and deserving of respect.

• I know that I am a winner.

• I am grateful.

• I forgive myself and others.

• I trust and believe in myself.

• I have unlimited power.

• I take steps towards my goals.

• I choose to shine and stand with confidence.

• I am grounded in love, peace, and joy.

• God will always be with me and guide my every step.

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

The purpose of our journey is to restore ourselves to wholeness. – Debbie Ford

• What inspires you to seek wholeness through journaling?

• What makes you feel complete and most empowered in life?

• How do you describe wholeness as it relates to your own life?

• How have you changed in the last 5 years? 3 years? 1 year?

• In order to be whole again, I need to ________________________.

• Write a list of things that make you happy, smile, and feel complete.

• How can you cherish your thoughts of feeling whole again?

• What area of your life, right now, makes you feel the best?

• What do you know to be true today about yourself that you didn’t know a year ago?

• What is your ultimate goal in life?

• What are your unique gifts and talents?

• How can you live your life more passionately?

• Let’s jump forward a year. What would you like to have achieved in the past year?

By now, I hope we can agree that it’s okay to be imperfect and to allow yourself an opportunity to keep learning, to feel scared and alone, to keep stumbling and failing throughout life’s difficult moments. The flip side of life’s reality is the freedom to feel whole again! Take moments in your life to relax, breathe, and just feel. Never underestimate the power of journaling. If you allow yourself to be open to healing and transformation, journaling can change your thoughts, feelings, and give you complete wholeness!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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