self-reflection

Fall Back, Move Forward: Thriving Through the Time Change

LatishaOctober 31, 20261 Reply

“The clocks may fall back, but your goals, growth, and purpose can keep moving forward.” – Renew Inspiration

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Welcome Back to Renew Inspiration!

As the first Sunday in November approaches, many of us begin preparing for the annual end of Daylight-Saving Time. At 2:00 a.m., we’ll turn our clocks back one hour and officially “fall back.”

At first glance, gaining an extra hour of sleep sounds wonderful. But for many people, the time change can bring unexpected challenges, including fatigue, mood changes, lack of motivation, and difficulty adjusting to darker evenings.

For those of us living in cooler climates like Michigan, the end of Daylight-Saving Time is often a reminder that:

We gain an extra hour, but still feel tired.
Chilly temperatures are on the way.
Sweaters, boots, and winter jackets make their seasonal debut.
Evenings become darker much earlier.
Outdoor activities become less frequent.
We spend more time indoors and may feel less energized.

However, this seasonal transition doesn’t have to take control of your mindset or your health. With a little preparation and intentional self-care, you can use this season as an opportunity to slow down, reset, and focus on living well.

AMAZON RESOURCE #1 – Sunrise Alarm Clock & Wake-Up Light

A sunrise alarm clock can help regulate your body’s internal clock during seasonal transitions by simulating natural sunlight in the morning.

Why it’s helpful:

Encourages easier wake-ups during darker mornings
Supports a healthy sleep routine
Helps improve mood during fall and winter months

Affiliate Link: https://link.amazon/B0h9irqiw

TIPS TO FALL BACK IN A HEALTHY WAY

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

The seasonal time change can affect more than your sleep. Some people experience increased stress, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

While you can’t completely eliminate the effects of the time change, you can minimize them with a healthy approach.

Prepare Ahead of Time

Adjust your bedtime by 15 to 20 minutes during the week. Small adjustments often feel easier on the body than abrupt changes.

Maintain a Consistent Sleep Routine

Avoid staying up later simply because you’ve gained an hour. Going to bed and waking up at consistent times helps your body recalibrate more smoothly.

Limit Caffeine and Alcohol

Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine consumption, especially during the evening. These substances can interfere with restful sleep.

Get More Natural Light

Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm and boosts mood.

Try:

Morning walks
Sitting near a sunny window
Opening blinds and curtains throughout the day

Stay Active

Movement combats sluggishness and improves energy levels.

Consider:

Walking
Yoga
Stretching
Dancing
Strength training

Avoid Excessive Napping

While tempting, long naps can make nighttime sleep more difficult and prolong adjustment to the schedule change.

Stick to Your Morning Routine

Resist sleeping in. Maintaining your regular morning habits helps your body adapt more quickly.

Create a Cozy Environment

The darker season can be an opportunity to make your home more comforting.

Try:

Soft lighting
Warm blankets
Seasonal candles
Reading corners
Relaxation activities

The time change may temporarily disrupt your routine, but it can also serve as a gentle reminder to slow down, listen to your body, and practice self-care. Give yourself grace as you adjust, and remember that small, healthy choices can make a big difference. Instead of focusing on what you’ve lost or gained on the clock, focus on creating habits that support your well-being. As the days grow shorter, let this season be an invitation to rest, recharge, and move forward with renewed energy and purpose.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – “Atomic Habits” by James Clear

This bestselling book offers practical strategies for creating healthy habits and staying motivated all year long.

Why it’s helpful:

Focuses on small, sustainable changes
Encourages consistency over perfection
Supports personal growth and productivity

Affiliate Link: https://link.amazon/B02JzFuuV

FEED YOUR FOCUS

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

As the clocks fall back and daylight becomes more limited, it’s easy to fall into a mindset of slowing down, putting goals on hold, or focusing on what feels lacking. But your focus has power. What you choose to give your attention to can shape your attitude, productivity, and overall well-being. Rather than dwelling on shorter days, use this season as an opportunity to intentionally nurture the areas of life that matter most and move forward with purpose.

Set Meaningful Goals

Evaluate your current situation.
Decide what areas need attention.
Write down your goals.
Create simple action steps.
Review your progress weekly.
Celebrate every milestone.

Stay Motivated

Read uplifting books and articles.
Listen to inspiring podcasts.
Practice gratitude daily.
Connect with positive people.
Track small victories.

Be Productive

Use a daily planner.
Focus on your top priorities.
Create healthy routines.
Reduce distractions.
Schedule time for self-care.

Shift Your Mindset

Remember:

Progress is more important than perfection.
Healthy living is a lifestyle, not a destination.
Every day is a fresh opportunity to begin again.

The time change doesn’t have to signal a season of decline. It can become a season of growth, reflection, and renewed determination. When you choose to feed your focus with positive habits, meaningful goals, and a grateful mindset, you create momentum that carries you through any season. Let this fall be a reminder that even as daylight decreases, your purpose, potential, and ability to grow continue to shine brightly.

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS FOR THE SEASON

As the seasons change, so do the rhythms of our daily lives. One of the most powerful ways to navigate these transitions with a positive mindset is through affirmations. Speaking encouraging words over yourself each morning can help you stay focused, grounded, and resilient, no matter what changes come your way. Let these affirmations serve as daily reminders that you have the strength, grace, and wisdom to thrive in every season.

Recite these affirmations each morning:

I embrace change with confidence and grace.
My health and well-being are worth prioritizing.
I create healthy habits that support my best life.
I am energized, focused, and motivated.
I choose progress over perfection.
The darker season offers opportunities for reflection and growth.
I am resilient and adaptable.
Every day I grow stronger in mind, body, and spirit.
I deserve rest, peace, and balance.
I welcome each new day with gratitude.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – Guided Wellness Journal

A guided journal can help you establish a consistent reflection practice and stay connected to your goals during seasonal transitions.

Why it’s helpful:

Encourages self-awareness
Supports goal tracking
Helps process emotions
Builds mindfulness habits

Affiliate Link: https://link.amazon/B05XSx5qR

THE 14-DAY “FALL FORWARD” CHALLENGE

As the clocks change and a new season begins, it’s the perfect time to focus on moving forward rather than looking back. Small, intentional actions can create powerful results when practiced consistently. This 14-day “Fall Forward” Challenge is designed to help you build healthy habits, boost your energy, and cultivate a positive mindset. Use these next two weeks as an opportunity to reset your routines, care for your well-being, and embrace the season with purpose and gratitude.

Week 1: Reset Your Routine

✅ Go to bed at a consistent time

✅ Wake up at the same time daily

✅ Drink 8 glasses of water

✅ Take a 20-minute walk

✅ Spend 15 minutes outside

✅ Write 3 gratitude statements

✅ Read for 10 minutes before bed

Week 2: Nourish Mind, Body & Spirit

✅ Complete one workout

✅ Prepare a healthy meal

✅ Declutter one space

✅ Practice 5 minutes of meditation

✅ Call a friend or loved one

✅ Journal daily

✅ Set one new personal goal

Bonus Challenge: Avoid complaining about the time change for the entire two weeks!

Track your progress and reward yourself with something healthy and meaningful when you complete the challenge.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

As nature begins to slow down and the seasons shift, it’s a wonderful time to pause and check in with yourself. Self-reflection creates space to celebrate your growth, learn from your experiences, and realign with what matters most. Through journaling, you can process seasonal changes, nurture your well-being, and reconnect with your purpose. Use these prompts to explore your mind, honor your body, and nourish your spirit as you move into this new season with intention and grace.

MIND

What currently brings me the most joy?
What energizes and inspires me?
What accomplishment am I most proud of this year?
What thoughts do I need to let go of?
How can I show myself more kindness?

BODY

Today I can honor my body by __________.
What healthy habits make me feel my best?
How can I move my body more consistently?
What does wellness mean to me beyond weight loss?
How can I improve my sleep this season?

SPIRIT

What do I need more of in my life right now?
What am I grateful for today?
What dreams do I want to pursue during the next three months?
What positive habits would I like to develop this winter?
What does a balanced life look like for me?

AMAZON RESOURCE #4 – Light Therapy Lamp

For individuals affected by darker days and seasonal mood changes, a light therapy lamp may help create a brighter environment during fall and winter.

Why it’s helpful:

Supports mood and focus
Provides bright light during darker seasons
Complements healthy daily routines

Affiliate Link: https://link.amazon/B07WCkPLZ

BEFORE YOU GO – LET’S STAY CONNECTED

Your voice matters here. Share your thoughts in the comments. Are you prepared for the end of Daylight-Saving Time? What strategies help you stay energized and positive during the darker months? What’s one healthy habit you’d like to develop this season?

If this message spoke to your heart, I’d love for you to stay connected with Renew Inspiration. Make sure you subscribe to the blog so you never miss new inspiration, reflections, and encouragement.

Finally, if this post blessed you, please share it with a friend, family member, or someone who could use a gentle reminder that change can be beautiful. Together, we can spread hope, healing, and purpose one season at a time.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Undeserved Grace

LatishaJune 9, 20246 Replies

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

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).

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

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 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?

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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).

Journaling to Heal Within

LatishaFebruary 17, 20225 Replies

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

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! Today, let’s talk about journaling to heal within. 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. Journaling is an effective way to accelerate your emotional healing.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1

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. There’s a lot of benefits of journaling, but 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 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:

Tip 1 – 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
Tip 2 – Let it all out; Allow your thoughts to flow freely and write about anything
Tip 3 – Dedicate time and write regularly; Try to write in your journal on a regular basis; Every day is ideal
Tip 4 – 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)
Tip 5 – 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? It’s important to allow yourself to feel and to express yourself honestly throughout this process. For example, I survived throughout my journey because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fire around me. I had to reflect on scriptures that were hidden in my heart in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc. Remember, this is a personal journey. It’s important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace, and joy.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2

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?
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?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

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

Sharing is caring. I would love to hear from you. Please answer these questions in the comment section. You never know, your comment may help someone else along their journey. Journaling can help you heal within so you can overcome any obstacle that you face in life. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges in life? If so, please share your experience(s). What advice would you give yourself to begin the healing process? After reading this blog post, what resonates with 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).

11 Ways To Practice Self-Love

LatishaFebruary 6, 2022Leave a Reply

It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary. – Mandy Hale

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 welcome February in with a discussion centered around self-love. When I think of February, I immediately think about Valentine’s Day and the concept of buying gifts for the people we love. But a thought came across my mind this week. What about spending some quality time this month focusing on self-love?

Self-love is taught to us as children and as we grow, we begin to nurture everything within us, both good and bad. Self-love requires you to be honest about your current choices and thought patterns. Remember, self-love is not a selfish act, but instead it forces you to undertake new practices and ways of thinking that reflects your self-worth.

WHAT IS SELF-LOVE

Self-love is the source of all other loves. – Pierre Corneille

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, self-love can be defined as an appreciation of one’s own worth or virtue. In other words, self-love is a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our physical, psychological, and spiritual growth.

Self-love can also mean:

Having a high regard for your own well-being and happiness.
Not settling for less than you deserve.
A transparent way that cultivates a mindset of gratitude.
The way we see ourselves and how we treat ourselves.
Having a safe place for you to share self-reflection moments.
Taking care of your own needs and not sacrificing your well-being to please others.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – SELF-LOVE WORKBOOK FRO WOMEN

SELF-LOVE EXAMPLES

To love yourself is to understand you don’t need to be perfect to be good. – Unknown Author

Now, here’s something else to think about. Self-love, self-respect, self-worth, self-care…What does all these words have in common? There is a reason why they all start with “self” because you can’t find them in anyone else. You cannot truly love another person until you know how to love yourself. I challenge you today to appreciate yourself just the way you are and then strive to become better each day. When you learn to love you, then others will love you the way you deserve to be loved in return.

Here’s some self-love examples to help you get started on this journey:

Prioritize yourself and designate time to do things that make you happy.
Spend quality time with people who make you smile and laugh.
Give yourself a break from self-judgement.
Speak to yourself in a positive and loving manner.
Trust yourself enough to make the right choices and decisions.
Always be true to yourself and respect your values.
Set healthy boundaries in all of your relationships.
Show yourself some grace and forgive yourself often.
Read an inspirational book or listen to an uplifting podcast.
Give yourself a positive pep talk each day by reciting affirmations.
Spend time reflecting on your life while writing in your journal.

Never lose sight of the main goal here. Loving yourself enough to pause and reset from time to time is necessary for you to continue your personal growth journey. Why you ask? Because you deserve a happy and fulfilled life.

WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-LOVE

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

Moreover, self-love is important to living a well-balanced life. Would you agree? After all, everyone needs to practice self-love at some time or another, right? When we act in ways that expand self-love in us, we begin to accept ourselves more in the moment, have less need to explain away our shortcomings, are more centered in our life purpose and values, and expect living fulfillment through our own efforts.

Here’s some ways to practice self-love:

Become mindful. People who practice self-love often tend to know what they think, feel, and want. They are mindful of who they are and act on this knowledge, rather than on what others want for them.
Create a self-care routine that you practice regularly. Nourish yourself daily through healthy activities, like nutrition, exercise, proper sleep, intimacy, and healthy social interactions.
Calm your mind. Spend time in prayer, meditation, reading, or writing. You can try writing in your journal, walking outside, practicing breathing exercises or yoga.
Set healthy boundaries. You’ll love yourself more when you set limits or say no to work, love, or activities that deplete you physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Step outside your comfort zone. Never be afraid to step out and try new things.
Protect yourself at all times. Protect yourself by allowing the right people into your life.
Forgive yourself. Practice being less hard on yourself when you make a mistake. Remember, there are no failures. There are only lessons learned.
Celebrate wins, both big and small. Always cherish and celebrate everything good that happens in your life.
Accept compliments. Don’t be shy. If someone gives you a compliment, accept it and know that you are worthy to be admired.
Cultivate a positive and safe place. Take time to clean and declutter your area. Then, add finishing touches to your space, such as new lighting, scented candles, plants, etc.
Live intentionally. Live with purpose and design. Make plans and accomplish what you set out to do. You need to establish your living intentions, to do this.

I have found that when I make time to practice self-love on a regular basis, I am a better wife, mom, friend, and co-worker. I am more disciplined throughout my day, feel rested, and ready to conquer the world.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – SELF-LOVE POETRY

SELF-LOVE AFFIRMATIONS

Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love. – Brene Brown

Like I’ve stated before, self-love is not selfish. You cannot love another person until you know how to love yourself. Work on being in love with the person in the mirror who has been through so much in life but is still standing.

Look in a mirror today and say these words out loud – I love myself today because I am beautiful, I am strong, I am powerful, I am fabulous, I am unique, I am blessed, I am smart. Repeat this exercise at least 3 times per day.

Here’s some additional self-love affirmations that you can practice reciting each day:

I value myself and I am proud of who I am.
I am beautiful, kind, and smart.
I am an unstoppable force.
I accept myself completely here and now.
I am healing more and more every day.
I am surrounded by love and prosperity.
I am worthy of all the blessings coming my way.
I release all doubts and insecurities about myself.
I am resilient and can get through anything.
I nourish my body with healthy food and exercise.
I deserve to love myself and to be loved by others.
I have the ability to overcome any challenge in my life.
I have the power to change my own story one page at a time.
I spread love to those around me and it returns in abundance.

Now, be creative and create your own self-love affirmations to describe yourself. Allow this to be your daily pep talk in the morning and repeat them throughout the day. Remember, when we love ourselves, it helps us feel our best in the inside, and when we feel our best, we can give more to those around us. I truly hope that I’ve given you some inspiration to become a better person within your own skin.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – A SELF-LOVE JOURNAL

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

Don’t forget to fall in love with yourself first. – Carrie Bradshaw

How do you define self-love?
What do you love most about your life?
How can you improve your attitude and appreciate yourself more?
How much do you truly love yourself?
What do your loved ones admire about you?
Write yourself a love letter. Make sure to talk yourself through a struggle.
What is your self-care routine?
How can you create space for self-love in your life right now and in the future?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS/COMMENTS

Sharing is caring. I would love to hear from you. Please answer these questions in the comment section. You never know, your comment may help someone else along their journey. How do you plan to practice self-love? What are some of your favorite self-love affirmations? After reading this blog post, what resonates with 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).

Improve Personal Growth Through Self-Reflection

LatishaJanuary 12, 2022Leave a Reply

Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things…then, better yourself. – 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! Happy New Year! It has been a few weeks since I’ve written or posted an inspirational blog post for you. Unfortunately, I’ve had some family issues arise that needed my full attention and for that I truly apologize. Before I dive into my topic today, I want to express appreciation for ALL OF YOU who have taken the time to read, subscribe, and follow my Renew Inspiration blog. It really means a lot to me. My prayer each and every day is to find the right words to say to help you along this journey called life. I look forward to reading your personal thoughts and experiences in the blog comment section for each post. It’s not only refreshing to hear your point of view, but it is also healthy to have on-going dialogue with one another.

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about how I can improve personal growth through self-reflection. Am I happy or sad? Am I willing to make the necessary changes that are needed to excel in all aspects of my life? Am I content right now or willing to step out of my comfort zone to explore new endeavors? These are just a few questions that I have found myself thinking about over the last couple of months.

Have you ever just sat down in a quiet place and allowed yourself to think without interruption? This process is called self-reflection. It’s really important to spend quality time in self-reflection mode so you can:

- Increase self-awareness
- Gain clarity inside and out
- Make positive changes in your life
- Develop genuine self-confidence
- Present new perspectives and insight
- Offer up a glimpse into your soul in its purest form
- Provide a safe outlet for your personal thoughts and feelings
- Give a creative space of self-expression without criticism

AMAZON RESOURCE #1 – A Year of Self-Reflection Journal

DEFINE SELF-REFLECTION

Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted. It is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong

Before moving forward, I think it is important to understand what self-reflection is before you can commit to practicing it on a regular basis.

Self-reflection (noun):

Meditation or serious thought about one’s character, actions, and motives.

To take it a step further, you must be willing to learn more about your fundamental nature, purpose, and essence of life. Take a moment and look in a mirror. What do you see? You see a reflection of who you are on the outside. For example, you notice your physical facial features, the color of your skin, your hair color and style, etc. However, self-reflection is not only your outward appearance, but it is a way of assessing yourself deep within – mind, body, and spirit. In addition, re-evaluate your goals, attitude, and mindset often. Then, don’t be afraid to make appropriate and necessary changes that will help to improve your personal growth.

HEALTHY WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-REFLECTION

Life is only a reflection of what we allow ourselves to see. – Paul TP Wong

As you begin to improve personal growth through self-reflection, you will notice a shift in your mindset, an increase of positivity in your life, and discover a deeper connection within. Here’s some healthy ways to practice self-reflection throughout your journey:

Prayer and meditation – Take a moment to quiet your mind, read a scripture, pray, and meditate. Allow your mind, body, and spirit to only connect with God so you can hear His voice.
Yoga and exercise – Every day is important to do some form of yoga and exercise. Movement gives you more energy and helps keep you healthy.
Reading inspirational books – Reading keeps your brain healthy, but reading inspirational books also keeps you in a positive mood.
Reciting positive affirmations – Reciting positive affirmations will give you hope and encourage you to focus on your goals/dreams.
Listening to music – Music can be soothing and a great way to calm your spirit.
Writing or journaling – Writing is a form of self-expression. Capture every moment of your life in a journal so you can pause to reflect on the good times and make changes to avoid bad situations.
Listening to an inspirational podcast – Strive to be inspired by listening to your favorite and uplifting podcast. Listen to what your mind, body, and spirit needs, but also listen to your heart.
Drawing and painting – Showing your creative side will help to open your mind to different aspects of life. You become calm and relaxed as if you have no care in the world.
Vision board – Create a vision board so you can have a road map to success. Be creative and use pictures from magazines or from online, quotes, goals, etc.

FIND YOUR ZONE FOR SELF-REFLECTION

Honest self-reflection opens your mind to reprogramming, change, success, and freedom. – Vikas Runwal

As we stated before, self-reflection is a personal way for you to learn more about yourself. It’s important to find your zone and comfort level so you can reap the positive benefits of self-reflection. Here’s some helpful tips:

- Tip 1 – Be honest with yourself and with the process. Honesty is key to success. It’s important to remind yourself how things are going and how you are behaving throughout the process.
- Tip 2 – Notice behavior patterns. Be aware of your behavior patterns so you can strengthen the positive/healthy ones and remove the negative/unhealthy ones from your life.
- Tip 3 – Be able to articulate your core values. Take time to identify what’s most important to you so you can evaluate if you’re living those values throughout life. Your lifestyle has to shift at some point, and you should notice the change from the inside out.
- Tip 4 – Be forgiving. Be gentle with yourself when you don’t seem to get it right along the journey. Offer yourself patience, forgiveness, and grace. Remember, we’re all human and we all make mistakes.
- Tip 5 – Keep track of your self-reflection. Start a journal where you record your observations and monitor your personal growth throughout this process.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – 52 Weeks of Self-Reflection

TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS

My body is healthy, my mind is focused, my soul is calm. – Unknown Author

MIND

What are you thinking right now in this very moment?
What thought patterns do you have and how do they impact your life?
How does meditation guide you through your day?
Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present or future?
How do you deal with difficult thoughts or failures?

BODY

How do you feel right now in this very moment?
What is one old habit you want to eliminate in your life?
What do you consider to be your most challenging flaw?
How often do you exercise during the week?
How do you relax your body?

SPIRIT

Are you spiritually grounded right now in this very moment?
What is something you need to be free from and surrender to God today?
What is your favorite Bible verse and why?
Are there areas of your life where you need to learn to trust in God?
How has journaling helped you get closer to being spiritually grounded?

Instead of doubt, sadness, anxiety, and depression, choose to improve personal growth through self-reflection to help you cope with life challenges. You will think differently, feel better, and strengthen your spiritual being. Your whole being will thank you and those people surrounding you each day will thank you as well. Peace, love and blessings!

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND COMMENTS

As I stated before, I look forward to hearing from you. Please take a moment to reflect on these questions and share them in the comment section. You’ll be surprised how much we learn from one another. What are your thoughts related to self-reflection? How often do you practice self-reflection? How has self-reflection changed your life?

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).

Amazing Black Friday Deals For New Bloggers

LatishaNovember 26, 2021Leave a Reply

Renew Inspiration, Black Friday Deals, New Bloggers — Renew Inspiration

Blogging is not rocket science, it’s about being yourself, and putting what you have into it. – 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 and Happy Black Friday! Today, I want to share some amazing Black Friday deals for new bloggers. I’ve learned a lot of valuable information related to blogging since I launched my Renew Inspiration blog in 2018. Even though, there is so much information swirling around online, the blogging process can still be overwhelming to the average person. Now, don’t get me wrong. Blogging can be a rewarding opportunity for most people who choose to do it, but launching a new blog can still be a scary experience for many. It’s important for new bloggers to keep learning, be flexible, ask for help, and be willing to adjust with the blogging industry standards.

If you make any purchases using the affiliate links below, I will receive a commission at no additional cost to you that will help support my blogging efforts.

AMAZON RESOURCE # 1 – Blogging All-in-One For Dummies Book

REASONS WHY PEOPLE BLOG

So, have you ever wondered why people blog in the first place? I know for me, I started blogging as a hobby so I could share my passion for writing. Then, I continued blogging to inspire and encourage others to overcome life’s challenges. Let’s take a moment to look at some reasons why people blog. Some people use blogging to:

Inspire, encourage and motivate
Teach and establish expertise
Share ideas and their passion for writing
Cope with life and its many challenges
Expand networking opportunities
Express yourself and share creative writing
Maintain online journal
Provide book reviews or product reviews
Capture travel experiences and photos
Make money by selling product or using affiliate programs

Can you think of any other reasons why people blog? I will love to hear your thoughts so please leave your answers in the comment section.

AMAZON RESOURCE #2 – Make Money From Blogging Book

TIPS FOR NEW BLOGGERS

Moreover, if you’re riding the fence about exploring a blogging venture, here’s some valuable tips for new bloggers to think about before attempting to launch their new blog:

Tip 1: Determine your niche first – What is your passion? What do you want to share with the world? What is your specialty or your expertise?
Tip 2: Identify your target audience – Who is your ideal reader? Write directly to them. Keep your readers wanting more from you with a strong headline and intro.
Tip 3: Create clear and precise goals for your blog – Why are you blogging? For fun, a hobby, a business, to sell product or to monetize using affiliates? Write down your goals and make sure to reflect on them when preparing blog posts.
Tip 4: Come up with a catchy blog title and tag line – It’s important to catch the attention of others so they will visit your blog.
Tip 5: Create the perfect logo for your blog – The logo should show your creative side, but also pull your audience in. If you’re not creative, you can always hire someone to design your logo. You can find quality people using social media platforms or by checking out websites like Upwork or Fiverr.
Tip 6: Determine if you want to launch your blog using a free website or if you want to invest money in a company like WordPress, then a hosting company like Bluehost.
Tip 7: Establish one or two social media platforms to focus on when you first launch your new blog. For me, I love to share my new blog posts on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Once you are comfortable, add more as you have the time.
Tip 8: Have 2 or 3 really in-depth blog posts complete before you decide to launch your new blog. In addition, have more blog posts in various stages, such as drafts to be edited, outlines and topic ideas ready to write.

AMAZON RESOURCE #3 – How To Blog For Profit Book

HOW TO START A BLOG

Now, that you’ve decided blogging will work for you and your lifestyle, it’s time to start your blog. The good news is that starting a blog or adding a blog to your existing website is easy and affordable. Here’s the steps to start a blog:

Step 1 – Setting Up Blog – There are free blog options such as WordPress, Squarespace or Wix but to retain control and professional image, consider investing in a domain name and hosting, and installing WordPress or other content management system on your host.

Step 2 – Add Content – Once your blog is up and running, you need to keep it active with new and fresh content to grow your readership. I would suggest developing a set schedule for writing and posting to your blog.

Step 3 – Marketing – Great ways to reach your market are through social media, an email list and reaching out to other bloggers.

Step 4 – Add Income Streams – You can promote other companies’ products and services in affiliate marketing. Most companies, such as Amazon, Wal-Mart, Target and Kohls offer this program. You can also offer advertising or feed ad networks, such as AdSense, on to your blog.

Once you have launched your blog, it is important for you to stay engaged with your readers. I am going to be honest, engaged will mean different things for different people. For example, if you are selling product or a service, you need to respond to your customers on a regularly basis. However, some people are blogging just as a hobby, so your engagement may be less involved and limited to writing blog comments or subscribing to other people’s blogs.

AMAZON RESOURCE #4 – One Hour Content Plan Book

HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS AFTER BLOG LAUNCH

Finally, ready, set, blog! It’s your time to shine with written word. Inspire others, be creative and always look for new ways to connect to your readers, but at the same time take it slow. Here’s some other helpful suggestions to keep in mind once you have launched your blog:

Post consistently – Plan to post 2 to 3 times per week to stay engaged with your readers.
Use quality photos – Whether you take your own photos or pull photos from a free site, such as Pixabay or Pexels, make sure to use quality photos that are relevant to your blog post.
Discover your writing style – Start with a catchy lead, have a conversational tone throughout your blog and ask questions at the end to get your readers engaged.
Write down your thoughts – When inspiration swirls in your head, write it down so you can reflect on it later. It is important to keep all your thoughts and ideas in one place for easy access during the writing process.
Social Media connections – Give your readers three or more ways to follow you. For example, Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Comment on other blogs – Don’t be shy and be sure to write encouraging comments on other blogs. In most cases, the other bloggers will show your blog some love too.
Facebook Groups – Join some Facebook Groups to network, share your blog content, learn from other bloggers and to offer support to others who may just be starting out. For example, I setup a Facebook Group called Journey from Grief to Healing to encourage others along their grieving journey.
Pinterest Boards/Pins – Join some Pinterest Boards and create some boards of your own. Then, create Pins and share them on various boards.

GREAT DEALS FOR NEW BLOGGERS

So, here’s some of the great deals for new bloggers that I came up with using companies that I currently use and have found success with throughout my blogging journey.

BLUEHOST

Bluehost offers savings up to 75% off of shared hosting and provides a website builder option.

Shared hosting starting at $2.65/month for 12 months – You will obtain a domain, SSL certificate, 1-click WordPress install and Expert 24/7 support.
Website builder starting at $2.65/month for 12 month – You will obtain a domain, drag & drop features, 300+ design templates and total WordPress design freedom.
Choice Plus Plan starting at $4.95/month for 12 months.
Website Builder Pro Plan starting at $9.95/month for 12 months.
E-commerce Starter Package is 40% off 12 months term.
Free WordPress Site Migration.

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

WORDPRESS

WordPress is one of the easiest ways to start your website. You can use their free option or you can check out the paid option which provides other benefits, such as design plans for any budget, ability to customize your domain, editor features to build a blog or a full website, and awesome customer support.

40% off all themes
20% off eCommerce plans
40% off extensions at WooCommerce.com

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

AMAZON

Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer that sell a wide variety of consumer goods, electronic devices, and digital media. There are many awesome Black Friday deals you can take advantage of as well as joining their Prime Membership.

Prime Membership

Amazon Prime is a paid subscription service offered by Amazon that gives users access to products and services that would otherwise be unavailable, or available at a higher cost, to the typical Amazon customer. The standard annual membership cost is $119/year for regular customers and the student annual membership cost is $59/year.

Here’s a list of some Prime Membership benefits:

Free 30-day trial membership (you can cancel at any time)
Exclusive deals and discounts
Free two-day delivery for eligible items
Scheduled delivery options
Free delivery on restaurant orders
Unlimited photo storage
Streaming ad free music and video options
Watching your favorite movies and TV shows
Free release-date delivery on new video games, books, music, and movies
Same-day shipping for orders over $35 of eligible items (items must be ordered before noon to receive it by 9 p.m.)

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

CONVERTKIT

ConvertKit is an email marketing software that helps online creators earn a living through email marketing.

Help grow your audience
Foster your community
Earn a living online
Provide How-To Guides, Blog Articles, Workshops, and Podcasts
Sign up for free or start a free trial
Create unlimited landing pages and/or forms
Create and send broadcast messages
Sell digital products and subscriptions
Automated funnels and sequences
Paid subscriptions starting at $9.00/month or $108.00 billed annually (2 months free)

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

PIXISTOCK

Professional looking stock photos and graphic templates that are updated each month.

$100 off Pixistock’s Annual Memberships
Quarterly Membership starting at $127.00
Lifetime Access and enrollment into the Content-to-Profit program
FREE Reels Roadmap Course when you purchase any membership plan
Social Media Content Calendar
Lead Magnet Templates
Webinar Slide Decks
Digital Product Mockups
Client Booking Templates

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

CANVA

Canva is a free-to-use online graphical tool that combines design, photo editing, and layout to help you create invitations, business cards, social media posts, and more. A drag and drop interface make customizing thousands of templates simple and easy.

Create a design using templates and features provided
Access the design school for courses and tutorials
Learn how to brand your business

Select the link below to SIGN UP:

Remember, you do not need to understand everything about the blogging process before you launch. I hope these suggestions and tips give you something to think about from one new blogger to another. Good luck and happy blogging!

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

The influence of blogging is overall a very positive force in the media. – Garrett Graff

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 your short-term and long-term blogging goals?
How have you been getting in the way of achieving of your blogging goals?
How you stay organized as a blogger?
What are some of your blogging lessons and what you learned from them?
What inspires you to write, blog, and be creative?

TIME TO SHARE & COMMENT

Let’s talk. Why do you blog? How long have you been blogging? What is your niche? What are some helpful tips you can share with new bloggers? Do you plan to monetize your blog? Do you take advantage of Black Friday sales? What is your favorite store? Do you prefer shopping in the physical store or online? 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).

Thanksgiving Blessing

LatishaNovember 25, 2021Leave a Reply

My life is not perfect, but I am thankful for everything I have. – 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! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! I don’t know about you, but I have so much to be thankful for on today. 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, pandemic, just to name a few.

Life is better when you smile from time to time, cry a little, laugh a lot, and are thankful for everything you’ve got. Every single struggle and setback I encountered has made me a stronger, wiser and humble person. I have learned how to love instead of hate and smile instead of frown. We have to humble ourselves in life, so we can learn from life lessons. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. For example, if I would not have gone through so much pain and heartache, my Renew Inspiration blog would not exist today or I wouldn’t have written my first book that will be published soon. For that, I am forever thankful!

THANSGIVING BLESSING

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

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. I want to pause and let you know that I am thankful for the part you played in my journey! I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog posts, writing thoughtful and caring comments, and most of all, taking that leap of faith and subscribing to it.

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

I am thankful for salvation and Jesus dying on the cross.
I am thankful to still be in the land of the living.
I am thankful for my loving husband, family and friends.
I am thankful for our lovely home.
I am thankful for reliable transportation.
I am thankful for being employed throughout this pandemic.
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 my Journey from Grief to Healing Facebook Group.
I am thankful for my first writing project that will be published soon.
I am thankful for all of the support you give me throughout the year.

As you can see, 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.

GRATITUDE AFFIRMATIONS

Start every day with an attitude of gratitude. – Unknown Author

Gratitude affirmations will help to change your focus into looking for things to be grateful for throughout life. If you take the time each day and recite these affirmations, you will find yourself being happier and looking forward to living a more vibrant life.

Here’s a few of my favorite gratitude affirmations:

God is the source of my hope, strength, and gratitude.
I am the co-creator of my reality and I am grateful to be who I am on today.
My life is filled with an abundance of goodness.
The universe supports me and all my desires.
I am grateful for all the love that surrounds me, and happily give it back.
I express deep appreciation for the small steps I achieve each day.
I am taking the time to reflect on this past year and my heart fills with gratitude.
I choose to be kind to myself and love myself unconditionally.
I am grateful for the food on my table and for the people I am blessed to share it with.
All challenges are an opportunity for growth and I am thankful for the chance to evolve.
I appreciate everything I have in my life and always keep the door open for more blessings.

Let’s remember the reason for this season. Thanksgiving is a way we should be living our lives each and every day. 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!

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

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

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?

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).

Journal To Transform Your Mindset

LatishaOctober 19, 20211 Reply

You don’t need a new day to start over, you only need a new mindset. – Hazel Hira Ozbek

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! Today, let’s learn how to journal to transform your mindset. After all, your life is only as good as your mindset, right? I want to erase all my negative thoughts and feelings from my inner being. I want to replace all negativity with a new pattern of positive thoughts and feelings; a new wave of emotional balance and well-being; a new connection to my life as I know it, think it and feel it. There will be a new belief system inscribed within me. This powerful mental process will not only help you to transform your mindset, but you will also learn how to:

Develop a positive attitude.
Spend quality time focusing on self-reflection.
Commit to writing in your journal consistently.

DEFINITIONS

The best time to begin keeping a journal is whenever you decide to. – Hannah Hinchman

A journal is a reflection of who you are, it’s a repository for all of the things that interest and inspire you. In addition, a journal provides a safe environment to experiment with your writing style and technique. Simply put, when you write in a journal it becomes your personal journey of creative and heart felt thoughts.

Journal (noun) – A daily record of news and events of a personal nature; a diary.

Transform (verb) – Make a thorough or dramatic change in the form or appearance.

Mindset (noun) – The established set of attitudes held by someone.

POSITIVE ATTITUDE

A positive attitude will lead to positive outcomes. – Unknown Author

First, it is important for you to face each day with a positive attitude. Dig deep inside to strive for new opportunities that surround you every day. Focus on right now and not what ifs.

Here’s some great ways to develop a positive attitude right now in this very moment:

Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal
Set some attainable goals for yourself
Read and be grounded in God’s Word
Meditate and be prayerful
Read inspirational and spiritual books often
Post positive quotes where you can read them daily
Recite positive affirmations throughout your day
Practice yoga and stretch routines regularly
Seek professional help from a licensed therapist

I realize it will not be easy for some, but to move to a better place in life, we sometimes need to place ourselves in uncomfortable situations and/or conversations. Involve yourself with like-minded individuals who build you up and not tear you down.

Women need real moments of solitude and self-reflection to balance out how much of ourselves we give away. – Barbara DeAngeles

Next, self-reflection can be defined as meditation or serious thought about one’s character, actions and motives. Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things, then better yourself throughout the process. In addition, self-reflection:

Allows you to notice negative patterns in your life. Consider alternate approaches to your situation(s) and begin to move away from the stressors altogether.
Keeps you focused on the bigger picture. Identify a clear vision of where you want to see yourself in the future. Write it down and remind yourself of what you hope to accomplish.
Prevents you from worrying about things out of your control. Instead, direct your energy toward things you can absolutely improve within your life.
Helps you face your fears. Recognize and admit your fears to yourself and eventually learn how to handle them.
Allows you to clearly define happiness on your own terms. When are you most happy? Who do you most enjoy spending time with? What accomplishments are you most proud of and why? By recognizing the positive life events, you can apply your knowledge to future goals and endeavors.

Keep in mind, self-reflection is an incredible gift so please embrace it every day. Meditation can make our journey through life more peaceful if you allow it to. In the mirror we find a reflection of our appearance, but in the heart, we find a reflection of our soul.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Journaling is a good way to help us to stop, take a step back and reflect on ourselves. – 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. Journaling also allows for past reflection, future insight, and present surrender. Ready, set, write!

What is happening in your mind right now? in your body? in your spirit?
What does my vision for tomorrow look like? for next month?
What are the best choices I have made in life so far?
What is one of life’s little pleasures that I appreciate?
Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present or future?
How do you keep your thoughts in check throughout the day?
What are you inviting into your life with your actions or thoughts?

SHARING WITH ONE ANOTHER

Let’s talk. How do you plan to transform your mindset? Do you consider yourself having a positive attitude? Do you plan to implement self-reflection into your daily routine? 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).

7 Self-Care Tips for Grief

LatishaAugust 16, 20212 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Self-Care, Grief — Renew Inspiration

Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you. – Katie Reed

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 discuss some ways that you can cope with grief by practicing self-care regularly. So, what is self-care? According to The Self-Care Solution written by Suzy Reading, self-care can be defined as any life-giving activity that restores, sustains or improves your health.

WHY SELF-CARE IS IMPORTANT

Give yourself the same care and attention that you give to others and watch yourself bloom. – Unknown Author

Self-care is nourishment for your mind, body and spirit. Self-care can also help people become the best version of themselves when they learn effective ways to navigate through life.

Suzy Reading provides 3 reasons why self-care is important:

Stress is not going to go away. Stress is a normal part of life. In fact, life would be boring without some stress to keep us on our toes, right?
Stress has a cumulative effect. Stress can add up very quickly so make sure to plan for regular pressure releases throughout your day. For example, go for a walk, do a stretch routine or meditate.
Too much stress is dangerous. It’s a fact that too much stress makes us ill and greatly diminishes our ability to enjoy life.

7 SELF-CARE TIPS FOR GRIEF

Self-care is how you take your power back. – Lalah Della

Let’s be honest. It’s hard to think about yourself when you’re experiencing grief. There’s so many thoughts, feelings and emotions swirling around in your head all at once. Unfortunately, grief takes over your reality and your own needs tend to fall by the wayside.

Here’s 7 self-care tips for grief that can help you keep a calm mind, body and spirit:

Tip #1 – Breathe Mindfully – Take time to breathe slowly and focus on your natural breath. This process will put your mind in the present moment.

Tip #2 – Be Kind to Yourself – Being kind to yourself has tremendous healing power. Treat yourself as you would treat a beloved friend. Give yourself space to feel the pain of grief and allow your heart to break.

Tip #3 – Let Yourself Cry – If you feel the need to cry, then let your tears flow. Crying is a gate way to your total healing experience.

Tip #4 – Pray and Meditate Regularly– Despite how bad you’re feeling inside, it’s important to spend time in prayer and meditation. This process will help clear your mind and keep you in the present. Consistency is key so start with 10 to 20 minutes per day.

Tip #5 – Connect with Others – No matter how difficult it may be, it’s important for you to have interaction with people you trust. However, if you feel like your support system has fallen apart, then find a compassionate grief counselor or therapist to speak with.

Tip #6 – Move Your Body – Push yourself to move your body. Take a walk outside, practice doing yoga or try a new exercise class. Exercise does the whole body good. Exercise will help you sleep better and offer you a healthier option to release stress during this difficult time.

Tip #7 – Express Yourself Through Creativity – Allowing yourself to spend time writing in your journal, drawing, coloring or knitting can help you focus on activating your creative side of your brain.

As you can see, grief can manifest itself physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you are not careful, grief can throw off your whole life balance and really have an effect on your future health.

SELF-REFLECTION & JOURNAL PROMPTS

Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure. – 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. 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 enjoy your autumn activities:

What was the last self-care thing you did?
What is one thing you need to let go?
What is one way you like to recharge your energy levels?
What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?
How can I honor my body on today?

Give yourself permission to take time out for you. From time to time, make an appointment with yourself. Don’t wait for good moment, they rarely come. Plan your time and fill it with something that nurtures your head, heart, and body. Peace and blessings!

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

Let’s talk. As you can see, self-care is not selfish, but it is necessary to help keep us calm throughout life. How important is self-care to you while you grieve? What would you like to include in your daily self-care routine? 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).

5 Ways to Practice Self-Reflection Through Journaling

LatishaJuly 8, 20213 Replies

Renew Inspiration, Self-Reflection, Journaling, Journal Writing — Renew Inspiration

Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted – it is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong

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! Whatever you’re going through in this season, always remember not to give up, but instead slow down to reflect on everything you have and to identify who you are. Give presence in these moments, especially to yourself. Listen to what your mind, body, and spirit needs, but also listen to your heart. Take a moment to re-evaluate your goals, attitude, and mindset. What better way to do this than a concept called self-reflection through journaling? Believe it or not, self-reflection through journaling can allow you to:

Increase self-awareness.
Make positive changes in your life.
Gain clarity inside and out.
Present new perspectives and insight.
Offer up a glimpse into your soul in its purest form.
Provide a safe outlet for your personal thoughts and feelings.
Give a creative space of self-expression without criticism.

***CLICK HERE to receive your FREE Journal Prompts to assist you along your journey***

5 WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-REFLECTION THROUGH JOURNALING

Be a reflection of what you’d like to receive. If you want love, give love. If you want truth, be truthful. If you want respect, give respect. What you give out will always return. – Kristen Butler

During this journey we call life, it’s important to realize that you have the power to cultivate positive energy within your body in any given moment. Yes, even when you are exhausted, burned out and feel like you have got nothing left to give, your body can guide you to a peaceful place of greater vitality, inner strength, and well-being.

Now, let’s take a moment to discuss 5 ways to practice self-reflection through journaling.

#1 – Cultivate stillness within you and reflect on these questions:

What habits did you achieve today, this week or this month?
What could you improve on in your life?
Where were you this time last year and what have you learned since then?

#2 – Practice prayer & meditation and reflect on these questions:

What is on your mind right now in this very moment?
What is your prayer for today?
Do you pay attention to your breathing while you are practicing meditation?

#3 – Write in your journal and reflect on these questions:

What is the easiest way to get your thoughts and feelings out on paper?
What is an experience that changed your outlook on life?
Do you re-read your journal entries to find patterns in your daily habits or thoughts?

#4 – Analyze a past event and reflect on these questions:

Why do you feel the way you do about the event?
What is one thing outside your control that you need to stop worrying about?
Why do you feel guilty about the event or the outcome?

#5 – Make decisions that align with your values and reflect on these questions:

What kinds of things do you value in life?
What helps you make sound and confident decisions?
What is something that keeps you grounded along your journey?

As you can see, journaling is a safe place to practice self-reflection, your time to just write how you feel, and no one will ever know. From my experience, it is important to have your guard down when making the decision to practice self-reflection through journaling. Remember, there is no wrong or right way to do this process, you just need to write! No overthinking or edits on paper, just write your honest thoughts and feelings down. Never be afraid to sit in your truth and re-arrange broken patterns. Stay patient and trust your self-reflection journey.

JOURNAL PROMPTS

Life is only a reflection of what we allow ourselves to see. – Unknown Author

MIND

What thought patterns do you have and how do they impact your life?
What takes your mind away from positive and/or peaceful thoughts?
What is one thing you can do this week to improve your meditation time?

BODY

How can you honor your body on today?
What are some ways you can take better care of yourself this week?
Does your self-care need improvement? How would you improve it?

SPIRIT

What is an area in your life where you need to trust God more?
What do you need to be free from and surrender to God?
How much are you trusting God with your life right now?

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS & COMMENTS

I am now a reflection of my highest self. – Graceful Rebel

Journaling can help you overcome any problem or obstacle that you face in life. The key is consistency. Commit to this process, create a plan, and make it happen. Have you already tried journaling to overcome challenges? How do you approach self-reflection through journaling? 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).