Renew Inspiration – Page 9 – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

How to Cope with Grief and Pet Loss

LaPorterSeptember 29, 20192 Replies

cope with grief, pet loss, companionship, suffering, sorrow, self-reflection, journal prompts — pixabay

You have left my side, but you will never leave my heart. – 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).

Special Thought – I keep myself busy with things to do, but every time I pause, I still think of you.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today I want to share my personal feelings about grief and pet loss. Many of us share an intense love and bond with our pets. I don’t know about you, but I feel that a pet is not “just a dog” or “just a cat,” but rather a beloved member of your family. Pets offer you companionship, fun, and joy to your life.

In addition, for some people, a pet can also:

• Add structure to your day
• Keep you active and social
• Help you to overcome setbacks and challenges in life
• Provide a sense of meaning or purpose

This has been an emotional week for me and my family. Our Boxer/Sharpei mix was 15 years old and suffered pains due to arthritis. Within the last three years, we’ve watched our beloved pet experience declining health on various levels so we agreed to put him down on Friday when he could no longer eat and move freely on his own. This was the most difficult decision I’ve had to make in a very long time.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO PUT A PET TO SLEEP

Deciding to put your pet to sleep is one of the most difficult decisions you will ever have to make for your pet. As a loving pet owner, though, the time may come when you need to help your pet make the transition from life to death. Important things to consider include:

• Activity level – Does your pet still enjoy previously loved activities or are they able to be active at all?

• Response to care and affection – Does your pet still interact and respond to love and care in the usual ways?

• Amount of pain and suffering – Is your pet experiencing pain and suffering which outweigh any pleasure and enjoyment in life?

• Terminal illness or critical injury – Have illness or injury prohibited your pet from enjoying life?

• Your family’s feelings – Is your family unanimous in the decision? If not, and you still feel it is the best thing for your pet, can you live with the decision that you have to make?

If you decide that ending the suffering is in your pet’s best interest, take your time to create a process that is as peaceful as possible for you, your pet, and your family.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

HEALTHY WAYS TO COPE WITH THE GRIEF OF PET LOSS

Grieving is a highly individual experience. Sorrow and grief are normal responses to death. Believe it or not, coping with grief and pet loss can only be dealt with over time, but here’s some healthy ways to help cope with the grief of pet loss:

• Don’t let anyone tell you how to feel. Remember, your grief is your own. Allow yourself to feel whatever you feel without embarrassment or judgment.

• Reach out to others who have lost pets. Check out online message boards and pet loss support groups.

• Create a legacy for your pet by planting a tree in memory of your pet or compiling a photo album or scrapbook.

• Look after yourself. The stress of losing a pet can quickly deplete your energy and emotional reserves. Eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly.

• Seek professional help if you need it. If your grief is persistent and interferes with your ability to function, your doctor or a mental health professional can evaluate you for depression.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Everyone is taught that angels have wings, but the lucky ones have four paws. – 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, 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 cope with grief and pet loss:

• Today I remembered…
• The things I miss most…
• How I felt when I was around you…
• A memory that always make me smile…
• When I think of you, I feel…
• How I will continue coping every day…

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Remember, grief is an active process. It is important to understand that it’s completely normal to mourn the loss of your pet. Have you ever felt grief from losing a pet? If so, how did you cope with grief during this difficult time? 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).

Trust Yourself Whole Again

LaPorterSeptember 14, 20199 Replies

In order to love who you are and trust yourself whole again, you cannot hate the experiences that shaped you. – 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).

Special Thought – Trust yourself. You’ve survived a lot, and you’ll survive whatever is coming.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to speak about trusting yourself whole again. It is hard to trust other people when you don’t trust yourself. To take this a step further, if you are going through life waiting on other people to guide your every move or make important decisions for you, then you need to take note of your current situation and make necessary changes in order to grow on a personal level.

***FREE***Positive Affirmations Freebie***CLICK HERE***

Now, let’s begin your journey of growth by answering these questions:

• Are my actions guided by love or fear?
• What do I want or need in my life?
• Is this action important to me or other people?
• Will this action bring peace or inner turmoil?

Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do. – Benjamin Spock

To begin with, trusting yourself whole again is an on-going and everchanging process. So, how do you define trusting yourself whole again? Like any other thought or feeling we experience in life, our definitions may vary from person to person, but here’s how you know when you are trusting yourself whole again:

• You are a survivor.
• You practice kindness, not perfection.
• You refuse to give up on yourself.
• You are able to take care of your personal needs and safety.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1

In addition, throughout this process, it is important to note that sometimes people need permission to break. Believe it or not, it is from that broken place that you are finally able to become whole again.

Here’s some things to look for while you’re in this broken state:

• You will notice what you’re feeling.
• You will take time to pause and be silent.
• You will meditate and reconnect with your inner being.
• You will be grateful for all things, big or small.
• You will choose to feel whole and complete.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

TIPS FOR BUILDING TRUST IN YOURSELF

Trust yourself enough to let go, shift, and uproot. Give yourself permission to shed who you used to be. You are allowed to start over and find new ways to bloom into your best self. – Alex Elle

Remember, that at any moment you can choose to feel whole again, no matter what is or isn’t in your life. You need nothing to feel whole except your realization that you are.

Here’s some tips for building trust in yourself:

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

Finally, I have faith in you my friend. Take advantage of the resources that can be purchased through Amazon included throughout this blog post. Remember, if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. Believe in yourself and your feelings. Take a moment to trust yourself enough to do what your heart is guiding you to do. Your intuition is powerful. Trust it.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Life is too short to start your day with broken pieces of yesterday, it will definitely destroy your wonderful today, and ruin your great tomorrow. – Unknown Author

Positive affirmations help you to attract more positivity and transform your thoughts. It’s important to repeat the following positive affirmations daily until they are hidden in your heart:

• I am exactly where I need to be right now.
• All things are temporary.
• I’m grateful for adversity because it allows me to grow.
• My strengths are greater than my struggles.
• I will let go of the things that I cannot control.
• I am strong and I am enough.
• I love myself for who I am.
• I am worthy of great things.
• I am in charge of my own self-worth.
• I respect myself and demand respect from other people.
• I am surrounded by love, peace, and joy.
• Success and happiness come easily to me.
• I can create the life I dream of.

AMAZON RESOURCE #4

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Seek to be whole, not perfect. – Oprah Winfrey

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, open your journal or notebook and practice journaling each day by using these helpful journal prompts:

***FREE***Journal Prompts Freebie***CLICK HERE***

Here’s some journal prompts to help you trust yourself whole again:

• Describe yourself in 3 words.

• Do you trust yourself?

• Do you feel whole and complete?

• What is your biggest victory? Fear?

• What makes you proud of yourself?

• How do you cope with your triggers and emotions?

• What is your vision for the next month? Year?

AMAZON RESOURCE #5

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

I’m working on myself for myself by myself. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Now, it’s time to be honest with yourself. Do you trust yourself enough to make decisions or do you care about what others think? Do you feel that you are whole or broken? Explain. Please share 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).

The Liebster Award

LaPorterSeptember 2, 20194 Replies

Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try. – 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 was honored to find that Ashlee Nicole from Ashlee Nicole Explained nominated me for The Liebster Award. It’s times like these that provides me with proof why I love blogging so much. There are so many awesome and creative bloggers that exist who are always willing to help others like myself stay grounded throughout our blogging career.

THE LIEBSTER AWARD RULES

• Give a shout out to the blogger that nominated you for this Liebster Award. Make sure you link their blogging site as well.
• Write 11 facts about yourself.
• Don’t forget to post the award on your blog.
• Answer the fun questions setup by the blogger who nominated you.
• Nominate 11 deserving bloggers. Don’t forget to tag them.

11 THINGS ABOUT ME

• I live in Detroit, MI
• I love to write and encourage others
• I have 2 adopted sons
• I have been married for 15 years
• I love reading, journaling and blogging
• I drive a Lincoln MKZ
• I have 2 dogs and 1 cat
• I enjoy doing Leslie Sansone walk workouts
• I dream of writing and finishing my first book
• My favorite color is black
• My birthday is 2 weeks before Christmas

ASHLEE’S QUESTIONS

• What is the worst job you’ve had? My worst job was working at Ford Motor Company while attending my first year in college.
• Do you have to have a certain pen to write with? No. I can write with any pen or pencil.
• Where is the most exotic place you have visited? Unfortunately, I have not visited an exotic place.
• What do you eat for breakfast when you don’t have time? I eat a piece of fruit.
• What is your best how to advice? How to encourage yourself through journaling.
• Do you like challenges? Yes, I love to be challenged mentally, physically, and spiritually.
• Where do you see yourself financially in a year? Debt free and increasing my savings.
• What is the scariest thing to you? I just don’t like how I feel when flying in an airplane.
• Are you subscribed to a magazine? Yes, I am subscribed to Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, Writer’s Digest, and Women’s Health.
• Do you use a planner/journal/agenda? If so, where did you get it? I use a planner and journal that I purchased from Office Depot.
• Apple or Android? I prefer Android. I’ve never used an Apple product.

QUESTIONS FOR MY NOMINEES

• What do you enjoy writing or blogging about?
• What kinds of books do you enjoy reading?
• Where do you like to write?
• Do you visit your local library often?
• What do you use to stay organized?
• Do you have any pets?
• What is your favorite color?
• Do you enjoy traveling?
• Where do you prefer to exercise?
• Have you written a book?
• What are your writing goals?

MY 11 NOMINEES BLOGS

Please take a moment to support the following bloggers:

• Shatter The Silence
• Life With Charli
• Keeping Up With MJ
• With the DeVaulls
• Down The Hobbit Hole
• Just Call Me Jess
• Sunny Larue
• The Ray Journey
• Nyxies Nook
• Simply Katricia
• The Necessity Accessory

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).

Traveling with Anxiety

LaPorterAugust 15, 20192 Replies

Traveling, Anxiety, Alabama, sunset, dusk, boat, fishing, rock, boulders

There are seven days in a week and someday isn’t one of them. – 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! Guess who’s going on vacation tomorrow. Yes, you guessed it – I am! I wanted to spend some time writing a blog post that will capture ways to handle traveling with anxiety. I have to be honest with you, this week was full of excitement and anxiety while preparing to travel with my family. My husband is driving our family down to Alabama to see my niece, her husband, and her grandmother. We are so excited! This will be our first family vacation since 2015 and we desperately need it.

Despite the excitement of traveling and being with my family, I am struggling with anxiety. I’ll be the first to admit, that traveling with anxiety is very difficult while you’re trying to handle the day-to-day activities, such as planning, shopping, packing, etc. but I am determined not to let it overwhelm me this time.

WAYS TO COPE WITH ANXIETY WHEN TRAVELING

Anxiety isn’t weakness. Living with anxiety, turning up and doing stuff with anxiety, takes a strength most will never know. – Unknown Author

Traveling should be a fun experience for everyone. Unfortunately, some people like myself struggle with traveling with anxiety. The thoughts of planning and making every memory a lasting one. I’ve found it is important to be aware of your anxiety, feelings, and emotions throughout this process. Acknowledge everything and be honest with yourself.

Here’s some ways to cope with anxiety when traveling:

• Embrace the positive in your life and practice self-care.

• Plan your vacation, get organized and pack smart.

• Plan your itinerary and include fun activities.

• Make time to reflect and write in a journal.

• Read an inspirational book while on the road.

• Develop calming rituals, such as breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.

• Distract yourself from all of the stress and take a break.

• Reach out to your support team which can be family or friends.

• Identify sources of anxiety and triggers. Then, visualize yourself being happy and full of life.

• Don’t be afraid to seek counseling from a licensed therapist.

With proper planning and encouragement from loved ones, your next traveling experience will not only be fun, but will be full of positive memories with less anxiety.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Take time to make your soul happy. – Unknown Author

Journaling is a powerful way to process events in your life, build self-awareness, get more clarity, and keep yourself on track. Now, open your journal or notebook and practice journaling each day by using these helpful journal prompts:

• Do you experience anxiety when traveling?

• Do you like to travel with family, friends, or alone?

• Where are you going for your next traveling adventure?

• When did you start planning for your vacation?

• Do you prefer flying, driving, or taking a train when planning a vacation?

• Who are you traveling with on your next vacation?

• What will you miss most when you get home?

TRAVEL JOURNAL

Travel is an investment in yourself. – Unknown Author

Whether you travel alone or with family, it’s important to capture the moments in a travel journal. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get creative and choose from the following travel journals via Amazon:

Travel Journal Option #1:

Travel Journal Option #2:

Travel Journal Option #3:

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. How often do you get to travel? When you travel, do you experience anxiety? If so, how do you cope with it. Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

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).

Regaining Balance

LaPorterJuly 28, 20191 Reply

In life, many things don’t go according to plan. If you fall, get back up. If you stumble, regain your balance. – 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! Let’s face it. Living in a chaotic and negative environment takes a lot out of you. In some ways, your life will seem out of balance and disconnected. You may even feel like you are out of control or just simply worn out with day-to-day activities.

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 regaining balance in life is the key to your peace and happiness.

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.

EXAMPLES YOUR LIFE IS OUT OF BALANCE

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

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.

WAYS TO REGAIN BALANCE IN YOUR LIFE

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

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.

• 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.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Life is about balance. Be kind, but don’t let people abuse. Trust, but don’t be deceived. Be content, but never stop improving yourself. – Nishan Panwar

As you can see, journaling holds all of your emotions, thoughts, and feelings in one sacred place. Journaling has a way to uncover parts of yourself you never thought existed. Journaling can be fun, but also can be a serious process to help you cope with many life’s challenges, such as depression, grief, or loneliness. The most important fact about journaling is you have total control throughout the experience. You can keep it secret or share it with others. No matter what you decide, always be open, honest, and willing to write from the heart.

MIND

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

• How does journaling help to improve your mental state?
• What is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned to date?
• What quote(s) inspires you on a difficult day?
• What do you love about life?
• List 5 positive thoughts that you have. Ready, set, write.

BODY

I am strong, fit, and well-balanced. – Unknown Author

• Describe a difficult situation you’ve encountered. How did it make you feel?
• If you could change one thing about yourself, what would you change and why?
• How can you incorporate self-care into your daily routine?
• What is something that you’ve overcome in life?
• List ways that you can relax each day.

SPIRIT

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

• 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?
• What does God’s presence feel like in my life?
• List a Bible verse about God’s love.

When you have made the decision to embrace life and regain balance, 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

Stay patient and trust your journey. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. When was the last time you lost your life balance? How do you regain balance? Please share your honest response in the comment section. I cannot wait to hear from you.

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).

Journaling Through Anxiety

LaPorterJuly 7, 201929 Replies

Journaling, Anxiety, Renew Inspiration, Purple Flower, Depression — pexels

I’m not lazy. I’m just exhausted from fighting my way through every single day. – Mimi Love

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! So, how is your summer going so far? I hope you enjoyed your 4th of July holiday with your family and friends. Unfortunately, I am exhausted some days from trying to be stronger than I feel. I even overthink my overthinking. Lately, I have been experiencing a high level of anxiety. I normally feel this way during holidays. Of course, this holiday was no different. I thought about my mom a lot.

Believe it or not, everyone experiences fear and anxiety from time to time. Anxiety disorders can develop after a person experience trauma in childhood or adulthood. However, coping with anxiety on a regular basis can be quite difficult at any age level. Did you know that anxiety is a healthy response to help you cope with real threats to your life and well-being? Yes, anxiety is supposed to be a quick response that will motivate you to take action, and then fade away so you can feel safe again.

SYMPTOMS OF ANXIETY

Unfortunately, high levels of anxiety can cause various health conditions, such as:

• Panic attacks

• Depression

• Constant and excessive worrying

• Feeling exhausted and fatigue

• Increase stress

• Restlessness

• Insomnia and non-restorative sleep

• Irritability

• Lack of concentration

• Irrational fears and phobias

• Avoiding social situations

It’s important to analyze these symptoms very closely. If you feel the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily life activities and continues for at least 6 months, you may want to consider seeing a licensed health professional.

HOW ANXIETY MANIPULATES YOU

Many people deal with anxiety on so many levels, and in some cases, they deal with this condition alone. Unfortunately, anxiety often times manipulates you by showing the following:

• Self-doubt – Anxiety makes us question ourselves and our beliefs.

• Fear – Anxiety takes what is dear to you and makes you afraid of losing it.

• Worries – Anxiety can take a thought and turn it into excessive worries.

• Control – We don’t need our fears to manifest. Then, we strive to control everything.

Similar to the symptoms as noted above, it’s important to analyze how you’re feeling and request help from a licensed health professional so you can cope with life better.

WAYS TO REDUCE ANXIETY

Here’s some ways to reduce anxiety:

• Eating a healthy diet

• Limiting caffeine

• Abstaining from drinking alcohol

• Quitting smoking

• Exercising often

• Trying medication to calm you

• Practicing yoga routines

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Never have I dealt with anything more difficult than my own soul. – Unknown Author

I don’t think people realize how much strength it takes to pull your own self out of an anxiety attack. So, if you’ve done that today or any day, I’m proud of you. Repeat these positive affirmations daily as you look into a mirror:

• I am beautiful, flaws and all.

• I am worthy of my dreams.

• I am strong and I have a purpose.

• I am my own hero.

• I am worthy of real love and affection.

As you speak into your life using positive affirmations, you must believe the words in your heart. I don’t know about you, but I deserve to hold my head up high throughout my journey. As you can see, my self-worth isn’t determined by others, but it comes from within. Now, I hope you feel the same.

JOURNAL PROMPTS & WRITING EXERCISES

Anxiety isn’t something that goes away; it’s something you learn to control. – Unknown Author

Now, it is time to put your journaling efforts to work. Put all previous mistakes and misfortunes behind you so you’re moving forward with a clear mind. Believe in yourself and stand in your new experience. After a while this new experience and lifestyle will become priority. Nothing else will matter.

Here’s some thought-provoking journal prompts that I want you to focus on:

• Do you suffer from anxiety? If so, how do you work through it.

• What are some of life challenges that increase your anxiety?

• What are some of your fears or phobias?

• How do you plan to overcome your fears or phobias?

• What are your strengths?

• What are your weaknesses?

• Write a letter to someone and never send it.

• Interview your past & future self by asking questions that you need answers to.

• Use colorful markers or pens to write out all the things that make you happy.

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Journaling through anxiety takes hard work and commitment. Whether it is alone time, reading a good book, or binge-watching your favorite show, what does your mind really need? Please share your answer in the comment section.

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).

Mental Break

LaPorterJune 23, 201918 Replies

The body benefits from movement, and the mind benefits from stillness. – Sakyong Mipham

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! Well, it is officially summer and our schedules are all over the place. Now, that school is out, most families have to juggle working outside of the home, taking children to summer programs, and planning fun activities to do as a family. I am sure all of the parents can relate, right?

In addition, this is also a time where people can become mentally drained due to stress and anxiety. Tis the season to be happy one moment and sad in another. When your emotions seem to be all over the place, it is important to take a mental break from life as you know it so you can put your mental state in check. During this time, remember, you are not alone during this process. Make sure to change your focus and have your support network established.

RELAXING THE MIND

Your calm mind is the ultimate weapon against your challenges. So relax. – Bryant McGill

Believe it or not, relaxing the mind is very important when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Take time to observe how you really feel and don’t be afraid to challenge your thoughts.

Here’s some ways to help relax the mind:

• Sit or lay in a quiet place

• Visualize yourself calm and at peace

• Take slow, deep breaths with your eyes closed

• Practice mindful meditation or prayer

• Listen to soothing music
 
• Read a good book

• Write in your journal or notebook

• Exercise or go for a walk outdoors

• Talk to someone you trust (family, friends, co-workers, therapist)

• Soak in a warm bath with your eyes closed

TODAY I RELEASE

Feel the feeling but don’t become the emotion. Witness it. Allow it. Release it. – Crystal Andrus

Stop trying to please everyone and putting yourself down. At some point, you have to make positive changes in your life in order to see positive results. Don’t live in the past. Instead, take a moment to release all pain, suffering, worry, and anxiety.

Today I release all of the following:

• Toxic thoughts and emotions

• Unhealthy environments

• Unfruitful relationships
 
• Thoughts of revenge and unforgiveness

• Thoughts of envy and strife

• Negative words I spoke about others

• Negative words I have spoken to myself

I totally let all of these things go on today, right now in this very moment. I live a life filled with love, peace, and freedom from this day forward.

AFFIRMATION FOR MENTAL WELLNESS

Make your mental health a priority. – Unknown Author

Today I embrace the memory of the past and the strength of the future. I am grateful for all that life has given me. I acknowledge that I did the best I could at the time, and now I am ready to clear my mind of all negative thoughts. I am in perfect balance. I am physically and emotionally connected and healed. I am free of worry and I am truly at peace with who I am. Every day I plan to set aside quality time for mental wellness so I can become stronger and more relaxed. I love myself and life as I know it.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Silence isn’t empty, it’s full of answers. – Unknown Author

Now, it is time to put your journaling efforts to work. Throughout the mental break process, put all previous mistakes and misfortunes behind you so you’re moving forward with a clear mind. Believe in yourself and stand in your new experience. After awhile this new experience and lifestyle will become priority. Nothing else will matter.

• What is on your mind right now in this very moment?

• What are some of your thoughts that you want to change?

• What are some of your thoughts holding you back right now?

• What was the last self-care thing you did to improve your mental state?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place. – Unknown Author

Let’s talk. Taking a mental break can be difficult for most people. It not only takes courage, but it takes a strong level of commitment. How often do you take a mental break from life’s priorities and challenges? Do you feel guilty or do you look forward to this time to refresh your mental state?

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Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon, Target, Blue Host and WordPress Affiliate Programs which are advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Target.com, Bluehost.com and WordPress.com

Success Driven

LaPorterJune 8, 20192 Replies

Love life. Engage in it. Give it all you’ve got. Love it with a passion because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it. – Maya Angelou

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! Well, I have to be honest. I don’t know anyone who would not want to experience some level of success in their life at some point or another. Now, take a moment to think about your life. Do you consider yourself success driven? Whether it is graduating from high school or college, finding the career of your dreams, buying your first home, getting married or starting a family; the feeling of success brings happiness to your life every time. If you’re honest, you will agree that everyone strives to be successful at one point or another throughout life. Unfortunately, life has a way of placing roadblocks in our path which makes it even harder to achieve success along our journey. Today, I want to talk about what is needed to be success driven.

When I think of someone being success driven, I think of an individual that is not afraid of following these necessary steps throughout life:

• Step 1 – Make a commitment to yourself to become success driven.

• Step 2 – Set some realistic goals for yourself and write them down.

• Step 3 – Make a plan to meet your goals and revisit your plan often.

• Step 4 – Put your plan to work by focusing on tasks that will help you achieve your goals.

As you become more clear about who you really are, you’ll be better able to decide what is best for you the first time around. – Oprah Winfrey

HEALTHY HABITS

Here’s some healthy habits to add to your daily routine:

• Set goals and make a plan to achieve your goals.

• Never stop researching and learning.

• Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.

• Surround yourself around successful people.

• Wake up early and plan for a productive day.

• Strive to be an inspiration to others.

Success isn’t about how your life looks to others. It’s about how it feels to you. – Michelle Obama

QUALITIES OF AN OVER ACHIEVER

Here’s the qualities of an over achiever:

• Motivation – You must have some level of motivation. What is motivation? Motivation is the force which drives you to take action.

• Commitment – You must be willing to make a commitment. What is commitment? Commitment is simply giving your heart and soul to completing your objective, and really caring about the outcome.

• Determination – You must have self-determination. What is determination? Determination is the quality of resoluteness to achieving your objectives. To be determined means that you have decided to achieve a goal and will not waver until you achieve the goal.

• Persistence – You must show persistence throughout life. What is persistence? Persistence is the quality of remaining resolute to your goals while you are in the process of bringing them to reality.

• Discipline – Your must have the will power to remain disciplined in all facets of life. What is discipline? Discipline is the quality of self-mastery that allows you to make progress on your goal even though something inside you want to quit.

QUALITIES TO HELP REACH GOALS

Here’s some valuable qualities to incorporate into your lives that will put you on track to reach your goals:

• Be positive, kind and optimistic

• Be patient with yourself and with others

• Be resilient

• Be adaptable and ready to learn

• Be authentic

• Be truthful

• Challenge yourself often

• Be thoughtful and have a grateful heart

• Live your dreams

• Remain calm and humble

Along the way, while living our best life, mistakes happen and problems arise from time to time. When temporary setbacks occur in life always remember to:

• Embrace Failure – During this journey called life, it’s important to understand that we may fail. Remember, it’s not about how you fall, but it’s about how you get up and how you learn from your mistakes.

• Have Purpose – If you don’t have purpose in life, you will not succeed. You have to find out the reason you’re preparing yourself and working hard to achieve your goals.

• Practice Reliability – It’s important to be a person of your word. Simply put, successful people are reliable. Believe it or not, people will take notice and opportunities will come your way so be ready.

The key to success is to focus on goals, not obstacles. Remember, it’s important to know that it will not always be easy throughout the process, but never give up. Change your mindset, be faithful, and stay the course until you receive the positive benefits of reaching the top. Since we all are different, our definitions of being success driven may vary from person to person. Allow yourself to be creative and open minded. After all, we were put on this Earth for a purpose that is much greater that we are, right?

Success Drive, Renew Inspiration, Flower — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Who you are tomorrow begins with what you do today. – Tim Fargo

• What’s your biggest dream?

• What’s your goal(s) for the next month?

• What is your vision for the next year?

• Where do you want to be in 5 years?

• What are you struggling with at the moment?

• What would you like to change in your daily routine?

• What old habit do you want to eliminate from your life?

• What good habit do you want to develop?

• What’s holding you back from being success driven?

• What’s the hardest challenge you have overcome?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Do you consider yourself success driven? Why or why not?

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).

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Moving Forward

LaPorterApril 14, 201914 Replies

You don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward…just take the next step.

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).

Thought for the week – Moving forward means it’s time to write a new story.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! This week I have been in a very difficult place. It’s been hard to focus on writing so I had to step away to get my mind, body and spirit reconnected again. Have you ever been there or felt this way? Sometimes it helps to know that you’re not alone and you find comfort in knowing that others may be experiencing this same kind of feeling from time to time. Now, I realize it’s so important to be honest with yourself and with those closest to you so that’s where today’s topic originated from – Moving Forward.

WAYS TO MOVE FORWARD

The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.

Today, I wanted to write a few words about moving forward. Whether you’re stuck in a rut from a recent break up or going through the grieving process from the loss of a loved one, many people struggle with moving forward. Now, speaking from experience, I do realize that moving forward is not always easy. However, it’s important for people to be honest with themselves and with those around them when choosing to shake it off and take the first step to move forward.

Here’s some common ways to help you move forward in various life situations:

• Change your attitude. Believe it or not, to manifest is to create exactly what you want in your life by choosing to consciously vibrate in alignment with that feeling now. So, don’t put off changing your negative attitude. Choose to shine and a leave a little sparkle wherever you go.

• Block out negativity. Let’s face it, negative vibes bring about negative vibes. I AM – two of the most powerful words. For what you put after them shapes your reality. So, why not make it a positive life, right?

• Take ownership. Be the first to own up to what you didn’t do or to any mistake you may have made in life. That’s how you learn and earn respect.

• Let go of the past. It’s not healthy to relive your painful past. If you continue to look at today through the eyes of the past, you can never see what the present moment has to offer you in life. Remember, you can’t change what happened, but you can change your mindset and actions in the present.

• Start small. Set small goals for yourself and write them down. Each morning, look at your goals and make a plan to do something productive that will help you reach your goals.

• Stick to a schedule. Make a plan and stick to it. I know life happens from time to time, but also remember your success is found in your daily routine. Create a daily To-Do List with 3 to 5 items on it and check your tasks off throughout the day.

• Be willing to forgive. In order to be kind to yourself, it’s important to commit to talking with yourself in a way that’s helpful, rather than harmful. Speak life into your situation, not death and destruction.

• Live in a moment of gratitude. Start every day with an attitude of gratitude. Afterall, gratitude makes sweet miracles of small moments. Breathe in beauty, exhale gratitude.

Don’t be afraid to find your own happiness throughout this process as well. Remember, achieving success and personal growth is not going to happen overnight. To be able to move forward in life, you may have to let some people and thoughts go in order to live a more fulfilled life with purpose.

Moving Forward, Renew Inspiration, Journaling, Reflection, Writing, Notebook, Journal — renewinspiration

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Do not give your past the power to define your future.

As always, I want to give you some journal prompts that will help you throughout the moving forward process. Believe in yourself and choose to shine while journaling your way to happiness. If you’re honest with yourself, you will achieve what ever you set your heart and mind to.

• What would make you happy right now?

• What is standing in the way of that happiness?

• What is draining your energy from day to day?

• What do I need to give up, say no to or let go of?

• How can I re-prioritize my to-do list?

• What would I be doing if money or other people’s opinions didn’t hold you back?

• What are you afraid of?

• How can you confront those fears head on?

• What is a short-term goal that you’re confident you can achieve?

• What is an important lesson you’ve learned recently?

Thank you for reading my latest blog post. I really look forward to inspiring all of you with written word. When I write my Renew Inspiration blog posts, I strive to grow within myself with every word that I type. Believe it or not, my Renew Inspiration blog is the key to my very being. It gives me strength and power to reach so many people, both near and far. I would love to hear your thoughts about moving forward so please leave a comment. Peace and blessings!

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Here and Now

LaPorterApril 1, 201924 Replies

The past is your lesson. The future is your motivation. The present is your gift.

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).

Thought for the week – Be where you are, not where you think you should be.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s welcome April with a positive blog post detailing tips to help you work through and overcome your past challenges, strive to reach a successful future, and learn how to live in the present. Take a moment, look around you today and see all of the natural abundance in life. Feel the richness and see the beauty. Be grateful for here and now. I don’t know about you, but I am blessed. Today, I will focus on all that is right in my life.

The secret of health for mind and body is not to mourn for the past, not to worry about the future, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.

LIVING IN THE PAST

Never be defined by your past. It was just a life lesson, not a life sentence. – Unknown Author

As we go through life’s journey, we tend to hold on to past mistakes and failures long after they have occurred in our lives. In most cases, it is difficult to begin and conquer the forgiveness process that will help us reach a healthier and more successful future.

Here’s some tips to assist you along the way:

• Tip 1 – Realize that the past is the past. It’s important to realize that the past is done and already behind us. If we can do this, we will work to acceptance and emotional healing a lot faster.

• Tip 2 – Become clear on your morals and values. Be honest with yourself. Our guilt and shame come from our actions in life not aligning with our morals and values. Identify these and work through them one at a time.

• Tip 3 – Create a re-do to affirm that you have learned from your past mistake(s). Take a moment to write down how you would have done things differently if you could go back and do it again. This is how you make it a learning moment so you can move forward.

• Tip 4 – Realize you did the best you could at the time. Don’t dwell on the negative impact of your mistake(s). You probably did the best you could and now you’re in a position to learn from your mistake(s).

• Tip 5 – Identify your biggest regrets. Take time to list your regrets into categories and tackle each one separately.

• Tip 6 – Accept your past as part of your story. Own it and live it. It’s your own personal story. Make this a learning moment. What’s done is done and you cannot change the past.

Remember, you are more than your past mistakes, and I promise you, you are so worth it to move out of the past and into a promising future.

MOVING TO THE FUTURE

When thinking about life, remember this: no amount of guilt can change the past and no amount of anxiety can change the future. – Unknown Author

There’s no doubt in my mind that it’s important to improve your future and the quality of your life. I don’t care how you look at it. It’s never okay to live in the past and not be willing to strive for a better future.

Here’s some tips to help you improve your future and strive for a healthier lifestyle:

• Tip 1 – Put your life on hold and write a better story for your day. Take a moment throughout your day to pause and consider what you would like to accomplish. It’s all about a clear mindset and uplifting a positive attitude.

• Tip 2 – Learn and identify what’s keeping you stuck in the same place. It’s important to learn what is keeping you stuck in the same place. Is it fear? Is it hurt? Is it confusion? Use your inner thoughts and feelings to help you work through the process.

• Tip 3 – Believe in yourself and focus on right now. It takes a lot of work and commitment to ensure that you are fully present despite what is going on all around you.

• Tip 4 – Set a realistic and attainable goal. Setting goals is the first step in personal accomplishments, but keep in mind that your goals should be realistic and attainable. You can do this by breaking the goals down in smaller steps.

• Tip 5 – Relinquish what you can’t control. Empower yourself to change what you can in life and let go of the rest. Focus on yourself and less time on trying to change or control others.

• Tip 6 – Be grateful and pass it on to others. Be grateful for what you have and you will attract positivity, opportunity and success.

Despite how difficult it may be, don’t obsess or worry about the future. Stay focused and just keep moving forward.

LIVING IN THE PRESENT MOMENT

Life is available only in the present moment. – Thich Nhat Hanh

I am open to receive what I’ve been asking for. Believe it or not, life is more manageable when you are grounded in the present. Achieve clarity through mindfulness practices such as deep breathing and meditation.

Here’s some tips to help you live in the present:

• Tip 1 – Sit still and focus on your breath. Take a moment each day to breathe deeply through your nose for about 3 seconds. Hold your breath for 2 seconds. Then, exhale for about 4 seconds. You can use this breathing technique to bring yourself back to the present if you ever experience stress or anxiety.

• Tip 2 – Practice savoring with all 5 senses. Use your 5 senses to fully take in the environment around you. Spend time being awareness to what you see, hear, smell, touch, and taste.

• Tip 3 – Eliminate distractions that prevent you from fully connecting with others. Don’t hesitate to make changes in your environment to help you stay present with those around you.

• Tip 4 – View mistakes as learning opportunities. Always strive to learn from your mistakes. Dwelling on past mistakes can prevent you from living in the present. It’s simple. Don’t allow yourself to be stuck in the same place for a long period of time.

• Tip 5 – Practice forgiveness. Now, here’s a good one. Holding onto grudges and life hurts can keep you from living a healthy life in the present. Identify people, including yourself, that need forgiving and work to make peace with them. Keep in mind that forgiveness is not about the other person, but it’s personal. It’s all about allowing yourself to move forward in peace.

• Tip 6 – Strengthen your spiritual well-being. Strive to feel connected with God or a greater power to help you stay grounded in the present. Read spiritual books and quotes. Meditate or do yoga to train your mind to become more still and present-focused.

My prayer for you today is that you can relate to some or all of my tips in some way or another. It’s so important to learn how to let go of the past, move forward to the future, and live in the present moment. For some, it may come as an easy task and for others it may be a struggle. Never hesitate to reach out for help from family and friends. There are a ton of professional therapists available to help you work through this process. Remember, you are not alone.

journaling, book, flowers, writing, Renew Inspiration, Here and Now — pixabay

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

With the past, I have nothing to do; nor with the future. I live now. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

LIVING IN THE PAST

• What don’t you like about your life right now?

• Why haven’t you dealt with your past before?

• Why do you want to deal with your past now?

• What are your favorite moments from the past?

• What’s your biggest learning lesson from the past?

MOVING TO THE FUTURE

• What does your dream life look like?

• Where do you see yourself in 6 months? A year? 5 years? 10 years?

• What distractions are hindering your productivity?

• What actions can you take today to simplify your life?

• What do you need more of in your life?

LIVING IN THE PRESENT MOMENT

• What do you love about your life?

• How do you have abundance today?

• What makes today better than yesterday?

• What’s something that keeps you grounded you can practice daily?

• How can you accept and embrace your emotions no matter what they are?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS and/or COMMENTS

Thank you for taking the time to read my Renew Inspiration blog. It really means a lot to me and I hope you continue this journey with me. I would love to hear from you. Strive to be in the here and now. Honor the past, learn from it, accept it and let it go. Do you consider yourself living in the past, moving to a better future, or living in the present moment?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!