The less you reveal, the more people can wonder. – Unknown Author
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Mystery Blogger Award
Sunny Larue nominated me for the Mystery Blogger Award. You can check out her blog here. Sunny Larue is a blogger, writer, music, and martini admirer.
Sunny Larue, thank you for the nomination. I am honored to receive this nomination from a fellow blogger. I truly appreciate you for including me as one of your nominees.
What is Mystery Blogger Award?
Mystery Blogger Award is the brain child of Okoto Enigma. Created to help promote unknown bloggers to showcase their material that otherwise wouldn’t be seen. The award named after Okoto, is given to bloggers with ingenious post. For more information on the award and creator Okoto Enigma, please follow the link – https://www.okotoenigmasblog.com/my-greatest-creation-yet/
Award Rules:
• Put the award logo onto your blog.
• List the award rules.
• Thank the person who nominated you.
• Link to the blog of the person 10 who nominated you.
• Mention the creator of the award and link to the award post.
• State 3 random facts about yourself.
• Nominate 10 – 20 bloggers for the Mystery Blogger Award.
• Ask your nominees 5 questions of your choosing.
• Share a link to your best blog post.
Well, here’s my 3 random facts about myself:
1. My favorite color is black.
2. My birthday is 2 weeks before Christmas.
3. My favorite food is pizza.
Here’s my answers to Sunny Larue’s questions:
1. If you can eat one fruit for a year what is that fruit? Grapes
2. If you have a choice o see a deceased celebrity come back to life who would it be? Prince
3. If you have a talk show who would you ask to be your first guest? Iyanla Vanzant
4. What is your favorite cocktail? Don’t drink alcohol
5. What is your favorite time of the year? Spring
Here’s my 5 questions for you to answer:
1. What inspires you to write?
2. Who supports your writing endeavors?
3. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
4. What time of the day are you most productive?
5. What book are you reading right now?
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The more you know of your history, the more liberated you are. – 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! I wanted to take a moment to write about the black experience from my perspective in honor of Black History Month. Black History Month honors the contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. The celebration of Black History Month began as “Negro History Week” which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, and publisher. It became a month long celebration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass (February 14, 1818) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809).
As a child, I can remember participating in Black History programs at school that would include singing African centric songs in concert, writing and presenting reports about African Americans, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, George Washington Carver, and Madam C.J. Walker to name a few. Also, I remember having a Black History class as an elective in middle school that taught us about our African American culture and described our many contributions to society. In addition, I remember learning about many famous African Americans who fought and died so that other African Americans like myself could have the right to vote, to attend segregated schools, to shop and eat in segregated places, and to be treated fair throughout society.
I find it so ironic that Black History classes are no longer offered in most of our inner city schools, but the core curriculum includes American History. I’ve always felt that Black History is a part of American History because it happened in the past. However, I think Black History should be taught separately so that we can learn about many of the accomplishments and successes of those who came before us and look like us. We cannot continue to stay enslaved as a people because of the lack of knowledge, but we must be creative in teaching our young people about their African American culture and history.
The best way to fight an alien and oppressive culture is to embrace your own. – African Proverb
WAYS TO CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH
We all know that Black History Month is celebrated during the month of February. But, let’s be honest. We should be celebrating our African American heritage every day we wake up and have the ability to do so. How many African American families still celebrate Black History Month? How do you celebrate Black History Month and what are some of your family traditions? For example, you can watch movies and documentaries, go on family outings, and travel to create long-lasting memories.
Here’s some other ways to celebrate black history month and beyond:
• Visit local art and history museums to learn new information
• Enjoy the performing arts, such as watching a play or going to a concert
• Volunteer at homeless shelters and/or make monetary donations
• Become an activist and get involved with politics
• Sponsor a local school, non-profit organization or youth shelter
• Find a cause or non-profit to join then, volunteer and/or donate to make a difference
• Sponsor a child or family in need throughout the year and around the holidays
• Visit your local library to research facts and/or people past and present
• Support black authors by reading their books and writing reviews online
• Support black bloggers by subscribing to their blogs and writing comments
• Write a poem, story or journal entry to express how you feel
• Create a vision board as a family and then one of your own
• Create a bucket list and travel to historical sites around the United States (New York, Tennessee, Maryland, Georgia, Washington D.C.)
BOOKS TO READ
Reading gives us some place to go when we have to stay where we are. – Mason Cooley
Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously, Aretha Grant
Aretha Grant combines personal experience with biblical principles in Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously to teach you how to walk as the overcomer God designed you to be. Aretha takes her time to show how you are already an Overcomer. Now, it’s time for you to walk as one, in faith, courage, and victory.
Digging Deep Within, B.W. McKay
B.W. McKay wrote this novel from an African American male perspective. It’s a story of courage and liberation. You will be able to relate to the characters as they step out in faith while learning how to overcome some of life’s most challenging obstacles related to relationships, careers, communication, unresolved pain from the past, grief, brokenness, and mental anguish.
Becoming, Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama has given us an intimate, powerful, and inspiring Memoir. Michelle offers us a glimpse of her life growing up in Chicago, college life at Princeton, the early years of her marriage as she struggles to balance her work and family. Then, of course the debate whether Barack Obama should run for presidency. Michelle’s story shows us her inner strength and her passion for life itself. Michelle issues a challenge to the rest of us: Who are we and who do we want to become?
LIFE CHANGING QUOTES
Your ancestors took the lash, the branding iron, humiliations and oppression because one day they believed you would come along to flesh out the dream. – Maya Angelou
There is no gain without struggle. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Create the highest, grandest vision possible for your life, because you become what you believe. – Oprah Winfrey
You have to meet people where they are, and sometimes you have to leave them there. – Iyanla Vanzant
Don’t wait for the world to recognize your greatness. Live it and let the world catch up to you. – Muhammed Ali
You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own. – Michelle Obama
It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. – Frederick Douglass
I have fallen, but I will get up. – Maya Angelou
I was raised to believe that excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism. And that’s how I operate my life. – Oprah Winfrey
I am very proud to be black, but black is not all I am. That’s my cultural historical background, my genetic makeup, but it’s not all of who I am nor is it the basis from which I answer every question. – Denzell Washington
I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves. – Harriet Tubman
History has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take a life of its own. – Michelle Obama
We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Your willingness to look at your darkness is what empowers you to change. – Iyanla Vanzant
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Proud to be what I was meant to be. – Keen James
Now, here’s a time for reflection using journal prompts. Use this time to be honest and dig deep within yourself. Then, write freely about your life and your personal experiences; your dreams, challenges, and failures. Take time to think about your thoughts, to acknowledge how you feel, and to strive to be spiritually grounded throughout your journey. Keep in mind, this is an on-going process because life is always changing.
• How has racism impacted your life?
• How do you wish the world could be different?
• What is your biggest dream?
• What is your biggest fear?
• What are you struggling with at the moment?
• Where would you like to be right now?
• What are your core strengths and weaknesses?
• Who are you one year from now?
• What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?
• What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind?
I’ll be the first to say that it is quite difficult to celebrate Black History Month year to year when we are still fighting against racism and hatred every day. Many of our African American brothers and sisters are still being murdered because of the color of their skin. Despite this reality, we must still stand strong as a people in our own skin and celebrate everything that our ancestors fought for…EMPOWERMENT, INSPIRATION, HONOR, RESPECT, KINDNESS, FAIRNESS, PRIDE & CULTURE!
Peace to my Ancestor’s and my Elder’s. I walk in your strength, legacy, and power, today and every day! – Unknown
SPEAK LIKE FREDERICK DOUGLASS LEAD LIKE HARRIET TUBMAN THINK LIKE MARCUS GARVEY EDUCATE LIKE W.E.B. DUBOISE BELIEVE LIKE THURGOOD MARSHALL WRITE LIKE MAYA ANGELOU FIGHT LIKE MALCOLM X DREAM LIKE MARTIN LUTHER LING JR. CHALLENGE LIKE ROSA PARKS BUILD LIKE OPRAH WINFREY CHANGE LIKE BARAK OBAMA
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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Face your rejections and use them as stepping stones for success. – 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).
The Versatile Blogger Award
Melissa Snyder nominated me for the Versatile Blogger Award. You can read her blog post about her nomination here.
Melissa, thank you for the nomination. I am honored to receive this nomination from a fellow blogger. I truly appreciate you for including me in your selection. I started my Renew Inspiration blog to inspire and encourage others. After my mother passed away in December 2015, I began writing to comfort my soul. I started off writing letters to my mother, then journaling how I was feeling and what I was thinking, then in January 2018 I decided to start blogging. I have not turned back since. I love to have the ability to write positive and uplifting posts, then share them with all of you. Also, I love the blogging community as a whole. I’ve met so many encouraging bloggers and authors that inspire me to continue writing.
Water your roots, so your soul can blossom. – Unknown Author
Award Rules:
• Thank the person who nominated you.
• Link to the blog of the person who nominated you.
• Say 7 facts about yourself.
• Nominate 15 more bloggers for the Versatile Blogger Award.
Well, here’s 7 facts about myself:
1. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 15 years. We met one another online, and it was love at first site. We dated for about 6 months and decided to get married. We did not want to have a traditional wedding (to save money), so we went to the courthouse to get married instead. We left the courthouse and drove to Niagara Falls for our honeymoon.
2. We have two adopted sons with hearing loss. I spend most of my time advocating for my boys so they can be successful in life.
3. I love animals. We have two dogs and one cat. My oldest dog is 16 years old. His name is Sampson and he is a Sharpei/Boxer mix. My other dog’s name is Max, he is a Pug, and is 15 years old. Our cat’s name is Morris and he is 17 years old. All of our pets are very spoiled and demand attention every day.
4. Currently, I work part-time as a sub secretary in an educational environment. I really enjoy this job and the flexibility it provides for me and my family. Education is very important to me and I’ve always loved administrative type work. For example, growing up I would volunteer as a secretary at church and at school.
5. I have a passion for writing, journaling, and blogging. I am working on my first inspirational book/journal as a way to follow my dreams and to inspire others to do the same.
6. I also enjoy reading, coloring, and doing Word Search puzzles in my spare time.
7. I love to do Leslie Sansone’s walk workouts. It’s a great way to get fit, increase your daily step count, and have fun all at the same time. You can check her out on YouTube or just purchase her walk workout DVDs from Amazon.com – Happy Walking!
Here’s my 15 Nominees for the Versatile Blogger Award:
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Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life. This is my happy place. – 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! Wow, I cannot believe it has been a whole week already! Time really flies when you’re having fun, right? Before I dive into my topic today, I want to express appreciation for ALL OF YOU who have subscribed/followedRenew Inspiration. 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 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 others.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about my present place. 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 this week. 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 whether you have all your stuff together (you think) or you’re still trying to find your way (most of us).
DEFINE SELF-REFLECTION
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
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 can be defined as 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.
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HEALTHY WAYS TO PRACTICE SELF-REFLECTION
As you begin to practice self-reflection in your life, 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.
• 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.
• 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
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 to help you find your zone for self-reflection:
• Tip 1 – Be honest with yourself. Honesty is key to success. Be honest with the process and with yourself. 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. 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.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
My body is healthy, my mind is focused, my soul is calm. – Unknown Author
Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to improve yourself. Take time to think about your thoughts, to acknowledge how you feel, and to strive to be spiritually grounded throughout your personal journey. You have to dig deep inside yourself and do the serious work to truly understand your present place. Keep in mind, this is an on-going process because life is always changing.
MIND
• What am I thinking right now in this very moment?
• What thought patterns do I have and how do they impact my life?
• How does meditation guide me through my day?
• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present or future?
• How do I deal with difficult thoughts or failures?
BODY
• How do I 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 relax your body?
SPIRIT
• Am I spiritually grounded right now in this very moment?
• What is something I need to be free from and surrender to God today?
• What is your favorite Bible verse and why?
• Are there areas of my life where I need to learn to trust in God?
• How has journaling helped me get closer to being spiritually grounded?
TIME FOR REFLECTION – MORE JOURNAL PROMPTS
• What is the number one problem you would like to solve (or see solved) in the world?
• What is the number one thing missing from your life right now?
• What is one of life’s little pleasures that I appreciate?
• When was the last time you felt fully alive?
• What can I do to nurture my mind, body, and spirit?
• In what ways are you different from the person you were 2 years ago? 1 year ago?
Instead of sadness, anxiety, and depression, choose to practice 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 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 this blog and answer these questions 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!
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Self-care is giving the world the best of you instead of what’s left of 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).
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Let’s discuss some ways that you can improve yourself through self-care. 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. Simply put, self-care is nourishment for your entire soul, 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.
WHY SELF-CARE IS IMPORTANT
As we go through life, all of us have experienced stress on some level one way or another. It’s so important that you have the necessary tools to help you promote healing and cultivate clarity in your life as you experience stressful situations or any kind of life changing event.
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.
HOW DOES SELF-CARE HELP?
Self-care is important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel. – Eleanor Brown
Suzy Reading provides ways that self-care helps us throughout life:
• Self-care helps you cope with life changing events, such as an illness, the loss of a loved one, depression, parents adjusting to life with a newborn, etc.
• Self-care helps us recover after experiencing life changing events, such as the loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, divorce, etc.
• Self-care offers us a protective function, forming a buffer against future stress. If you are able to prepare yourself before a life changing event occurs, then do it. For example, before the birth of a child, the finalization of an adoption, getting married, starting college, or moving into a new home.
• Self-care helps us to flourish as individuals and to become the best version of themselves. For example, you may be striving to become a better parent, a better spouse, in search of a new career, or preparing for retirement.
SIGNS THAT BURNOUT MAY BE OCCURRING IN YOUR LIFE
It’s important to note that prolonged stress can result in a state of burnout. According to Suzy Reading, burnout is characterized by exhaustion, manifesting itself emotionally, mentally, and physically. It’s an overwhelming state, when you feel like you have nothing left to give and you just can’t ignore your body’s plea for a break.
Here’s some signs that burnout may be occurring in your life:
• Extreme tiredness, trouble sleeping despite feeling fatigued, difficulty switching off and a sense of overstimulation.
• A general suppression of the immune system evidenced by frequent bouts of minor ailments such as cold sores, headaches or common colds.
• Muscular aches, pains, and physical tension.
• Low mood, suppressed appetite, poor concentration or diminished enjoyment from life. A sense of feeling stuck and overwhelmed.
• Anxiety, anger, reactivity and irritability.
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Believe it or not, self-care will help you heal and overcome burnout. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with life’s events, prioritize soothing activities and choices that restore balance to your life.
Here’s some examples of soothing activities and choices that restore balance to your life:
• Go for a walk around your neighborhood or in a local park.
• Exercise does the whole body good.
• Do some yoga poses.
• Practice meditation or spend time in prayer.
• Read an inspirational or motivational book.
• Take a warm bath to help you relax.
• Spend some time journaling or coloring.
• Just sit still with your eyes closed and practice breathing techniques.
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SELF-CARE CHECKLIST
She made a promise to herself to hold her own well-being sacred. – Unknown Author
Today, I …
• Read God’s Word and Prayed
• Spent time in Meditation
• Exercised for at least 30 minutes
• Read an Inspirational Book
• Complimented Someone
• Found Enjoyment in Life by doing Fun activities
• Took time for myself
TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to improve yourself. Take time to write down your goals. Then, write about how you feel after you’ve nourished yourself with self-care activities so you can see what is working for you. Use your journal to connect the dots between choices and outcomes. Feel free to include anything that inspires you, such as quotes, pictures, positive words, etc.
• When was the last time you felt fully alive?
• What was the last self-care thing you did?
• What is one thing you need to let go?
• What book are you reading right now?
• What do I want more of in my life?
• What is one way you like to recharge your energy levels?
• What is holding you back from improving your lifestyle?
• What would you like to change in your daily routine?
• What brings you joy every day?
• What causes you anxiety?
• How can I honor my body on today?
• What is your vision for the next 3 months?
As you can see, self-care is not selfish, but it is necessary to help keep us calm throughout life. 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!
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
The most valuable gift you can receive is an honest friend. – 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).
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Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Well, I don’t know about where you live, but Michigan has been extremely cold over the last week or so. The schools have been closed all week and we are not due for relief until the weekend. Nevertheless, today I want to talk about the gift of friendship. Take a moment and think about what friendship means to you. Friendship can be defined as a relationship of mutual affection between people. So, what makes a perfect friendship? How do we maintain friendships with the demands of our family, jobs, and other responsibilities? Think of that person who you can call at any time of the day when you need some advice, are feeling down, or when you just need a good laugh. Now, let’s make this clear. I’m not talking about your online friends and followers. For example, here’s a list of my social media accounts and the number of Friends/Followers that I currently have: Facebook – 911 Friends www.facebook.com/renewinspirationmindbodyspirit
We have to remember to sign out of our social media accounts from time to time and make a greater effort in our busy lives to find ways to connect face to face with friends.
FRIENDSHIP TRAITS
The more we are invested in our friendships, the less we become single-minded and forget about the things that actually matter. It’s important to find friends who uplift your soul, who are full of life, and who are excited about your new ideas and want to see you fulfill your hopes and dreams.
Here’s some of the friendship traits to look for:
• Friends who are empathetic usually are active listeners.
• Friends who are selfless usually helps solve the problems of others.
• Friends who are trustworthy reminds you that you are not alone.
• Friends with shared interests, such as education, values, hobbies, goals or religion.
• Friends with different perspectives and backgrounds have the ability to transform into a growth mindset.
• Friends who are humorous often times bring joy, hope and comfort even in the midst of life’s most difficult situations.
• Friends who are a team player will put the needs of others before their own.
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KEEP FRIENDSHIPS STRONG
Everyone has a friend during each stage of life. But only lucky ones have the same friend in all stages of life. – Unknown Author
It’s important to keep friendships strong even when the going gets tough, right?
Here’s some valuable tips to help you keep friendships strong:
• Tip 1 – Show respect to get respect.
• Tip 2 – Communicate honestly with your friends.
• Tip 3 – Spend quality time with your friends doing what you both enjoy.
• Tip 4 – Admit when you are wrong and apologize.
• Tip 5 – Let go of the past and move forward.
• Tip 6 – Keep your promises throughout the friendship.
• Tip 7 – Give your friends their personal space.
SIGNS OF A TRUE FRIENDSHIP
A best friend is someone who loves you when you have forgotten how to love yourself. – Unknown Author
• A true friend will accept everything about you, including your flaws.
• A true friend will stick with you through the good and bad times.
• A true friend will always be happy for your successes and encourage you through your failures.
• A true friend will always meet you halfway in any situation.
• A true friend makes you feel happier, not drained and stressed.
• A true friend won’t talk about you behind your back.
• A true friend will always find it in their heart to forgive you.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS – FRIENDSHIPS & RELATIONSHIPS
Friendship is not about who you’ve known the longest. It’s about who walked into your life, said “I’m here for you” and proved it. – Unknown Author
Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to strengthen your friendships/relationships.
• What are some of your childhood memories?
• Who were some of your childhood friends?
• Who inspires you and why?
• Who do you want to be surrounded by?
• Who makes me feel the most loved?
• Who brings the most joy to my life?
• What old stories or memories are holding you back?
• Who do you miss the most in your life?
As you can see, friendship takes work and courage from both parties involved. Friends give us hope in life’s most difficult situations, help us to de-stress our lives, and provide affirmation of your life’s paths. Now, take another moment and reflect on what friendship means to you after reading this blog post. Then, write and send a letter to a friend who has been there for you before. Thank him or her. Tell your friend how much he or she means to you. Peace and blessings! Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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The past is your lesson. The present is your gift. The future is your motivation. – 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! Today, I want to discuss the process from journaling to blogging. As a start, it’s important to know that journaling is whatever you want it to be. You are in control and can define what journaling means to you. For example, I chose journaling to express myself while grieving the death of my mother. Simply put, journaling can be your creative way to record life in general and all its amazing experiences.
JOURNALING SNAPSHOT
Journaling can be done online or using a journal notebook. Journaling is a form of expression and is always a personal journey to help cleanse one’s soul. For example, when you choose to write in your journal, you can begin the healing process to release various emotions, such as pain, hurt, or guilt; feelings, such as sadness, happiness, or loneliness; practicing self-reflection by designing your journal pages using colorful markers, stickers to add a personal touch, or including pictures and quotes.
Remember, 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.
JOURNALING TO FIND YOURSELF
Your life only gets better when you do. Work on yourself and the rest will follow. – Unknown Author
Now, let’s take the journaling process to the next level. How about using the journaling process to find yourself? Journaling is a way to capture ideas and keep your dreams alive until you can put them in motion. We have to be ready and willing to do what’s necessary to grow, to learn, and most importantly, to find yourself.
1. To ponder and pen your big dreams – Your journal is an ideal place to write out all of your desires and dreams. If there were no limits, what would you want to become? Who would you want to meet? What would you have? Where would you go? Write it all down, describing in detail what your success would look like. By doing this, you can begin to put the laws of success attraction into motion.
2. To get clarity and solve problems faster – When you are unable to see a clear path in your life, it’s better to jot down all those thoughts swirling around in your head. Writing things out gives you the accurate perspective necessary to attract the right solutions. Take a moment to write down questions related to your problems. In fact, you should have an attitude of expectancy that you will find the right answers.
3. To chart what works – Journaling about your ideas, successes, and even failures empowers you to backtrack to see what’s working in your life and what’s not. It’s important to be honest with yourself and be willing to make the necessary adjustments where needed to live a rewarding life.
4. To track your past victories – Take a moment to celebrate your victories and write when and where you have excelled in life. It’s easy to remember your every mishap, but also make an effort to note what’s going right in your life as well.
5. To plan and strategize – Use your journal for both short-term and long-term planning. This process will allow you to work through specific strategies on how you will accomplish your goals. Plan everything from the week ahead to the entire year in your journal.
6. To create a success action routine – Your success action routine should consist of time for meditation and visualization, speaking positive affirmations and reviewing your goals. Visualize yourself completing your goals and feeling the benefits and rewards of doing so.
7. To take control over your future – Journaling about your ideal life and begin to act as if you have that life right now. Be descriptive and detailed in your writing. This will help you prepare for an opportunity that doesn’t exist yet, and ready yourself for the victory to come.
8. For self-improvement – Your journal is a safe place where you can truly be honest with yourself. This is your book, your story, your journey. You have no limitations or boundaries. Your journal is private so you can express yourself and get to know who you really are and what you truly desire.
9. To help you through the decision-making process – In your journal, you can list pros and cons when you are faced with having to make a difficult decision. Write out every possible outcome and use this to guide you through the decision-making process.
10. To keep you in a state of gratefulness – As you go through the process to find yourself, stay grateful throughout your journey. Express gratitude in your journal. Slowing down to make note of what you’re thankful for can relieve you of anxiety, stress, and help you to enjoy life to the fullest. In addition, the act of gratefulness also draws more positivity your way, helping you to create a cycle of success.
Then, after a few months, I decided to move from journaling to blogging. Remember, you may go through this same process, but for different reasons.
BLOGGING SNAPSHOT
There are many reasons why people start blogging. Some people start blogging as a hobby and for some people it’s a career. Blogging can be defined as a website containing a writer’s or group of writers’ own experiences, observations, opinions, etc., and often having images and links to other websites, a single entry or post on such a website.
For example, setting up my Renew Inspiration blog was a challenging experience, but yet rewarding at the same time. Through this experience, I found my true passion, inspiring my supportive audience (that’s you) through writing in the form of blogging. So, thank you for believing in me and taking the time to visit my blog often. Remember, this experience is not complete without you.
The blogging experience improves your life in the following ways:
• Help you become a better writer and thinker
• Lead you to a healthier lifestyle and choices
• Inspire other people with encouraging words
• Allow you to network and meet new like-minded people
• Create awareness or getting your voice heard
• Satisfy your creative side and gaining knowledge through research
DOWNSIDE TO BLOGGING
Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience. – Unknown Author
Blogging is popular because it is a great marketing tool and helps you make money, but it also has a downside.
• Blogging requires a commitment and takes a great deal of time to manage. For blogs to be effective at SEO and engaging readers, it needs to be updated regularly.
• Blogging involves creativity and you having a passion to write about things you enjoy. To keep the content flowing, you have to keep the readers engaged with awesome ideas, tips or suggestions.
• Blogging can provide income for some people, but the payoff is not immediate. One of the biggest frustrations with blogging is that it is time-consuming with little payoff in the beginning. It takes time to build up a readership and momentum.
Whether you are journaling or blogging, it is important to remember, ideas to write about can be found all around you. Take a moment and look around you right where you are. Inspiration is not required to knock at your door twice so enjoy the process as you help find yourself through the experience and inspire others at the same time.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
I am blessed. I am beautiful. I am brave. I am bold. I am strong. I am enough. – Unknown Author
Journal Prompts are given to inspire you to write freely about your life and to help you find yourself.
• What does a successful life look like to you?
• What do I want to accomplish in my life today?
• How can I create more acceptance in my life?
• What feels like a struggle at the moment?
• What is your biggest regret?
• How have I been holding myself back?
• What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
• How can I take a step forward?
SHARE YOUR JOURNALING AND BLOGGING EXPERIENCES
I aspire to be a giver. A giver of love, a giver of good vibes and a giver of strength. – Unknown Author
Do you enjoy journaling and/or blogging? Please share your journaling and blogging experiences. We can learn from one another and grow through one another’s learning experiences.
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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Time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters. – 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! So, how has your January been? Honestly, it feels like forever since I’ve written a blog post. Well, I don’t know about you, but 2019 has started off busy for me, but in a positive way. For starters, on the writing front, I have decided to:
• Continue my Renew Inspiration blog.
• Plan to write my first Renew Inspiration book.
• Strive to keep journaling, reading, writing, and meditating.
• Continue to write articles via Hub Garden.
• Pursue other freelance writing opportunities.
I have really enjoyed this blogging experience while connecting with you and have met so many awesome bloggers along the way as well. I felt it necessary to document my writing goals in a blog post to keep me grounded on what’s important in my life, right now, in this very moment. In addition, I want to be accountable to my overall writing career and make plans to reach all of these goals this year. Why now you ask? Because I feel it is my time and my season to enjoy my passion which is writing.
In addition to following after my writing dreams, shortly after the new year, I started a new part-time secretary job in an educational setting. If you know me, I have another passion which is doing administrative type work, such as typing, organizing/doing projects in an office setting, answering calls and resulting customer complaints, managing paperwork and/or online files, etc. This specific job proves that it is my time and my season as well. I was offered a full-time job after months of testing and interviewing, but I had to decline the offer due to family conflicts. Unfortunately, I have to drop off and pick up my children from school so I cannot work full-time hours at this time. Then, they offered me the part-time position right after I declined the full-time offer which was a total blessing for me and my family. This job opportunity allows me to work in an office environment (which I love), offers me an opportunity to work in an educational setting (which I have a passion for learning), gives me an opportunity to contribute to my retirement (which is a bonus) and offers me a flexible work schedule which is a WIN – WIN any way you look at it!
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WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life. – Unknown Author
Well, as you probably already know, I have been pulled in so many directions in the last few weeks. I’ve been struggling to balance my work, family obligations and writing projects which are all dear to my heart. There’s so much information to learn when starting a new job. Quite frankly, it is totally stressful and difficult to find a healthy work-life balance that works for me while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Work-life balance can be defined as the balance that an individual need between time allocated for work and other aspects of life. Areas of life other than work-life can be, but not limited to personal interests, family, social or leisure activities.
TIPS TO MANAGE WORK-LIFE BALANCE
• Set realistic schedules and do not strive for perfection.
• Prioritize your health by eating healthier options, meditating and exercising.
• Build downtime into your schedule to relax, read, and update your planner.
• Make time for yourself. For example, schedule a spa da or day out with your friends.
• Rethink your errands and household chores. Don’t be afraid to delegate duties to others.
MY TO-DO LIST FOR TODAY
• Count my blessings and take nothing for granted.
• Practice kindness to everyone I come into contact with.
• Let go of what I cannot control, seen and unseen.
• Listen to my heart in every situation.
• Be productive throughout your day yet calm in your spirit.
• Just relax and breathe.
HOW TO COPE WITH ANXIETY
Your life only gets better when you do. Work on yourself and the rest will follow. – Unknown Author
Anxiety can be defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about something with an uncertain outcome. Often times, if not properly treated, a person could be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder which involves compulsive behavior or panic attacks. I realize that transition and change are sometimes difficult for us to handle throughout life. As you experience these type of situations, please remember, you are not alone throughout this process.
• Get enough sleep.
• Eat well and exercise.
• Organize life as much as possible. Example – plan meals, get clothes ready at night, etc.
• Ask for help when necessary.
• Avoid masking how you feel. Honesty is key.
• Make self-care a priority during the transition.
• Remember your strengths.
• Know that you are in control.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
The most important person to keep your promises to, is yourself. – Unknown Author
• What makes you proud of yourself right now in this very moment?
• What is your vision for the next 6 months? year?
• What fear is holding you back?
• How do you respond to setbacks and failure?
• What is one behavior you need to let go this year?
• What did you do today that brought you closer to your goal/dream?
• How can I love myself on today?
SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES, GOALS & DREAMS
Do you feel it is your time and your season? How do you handle anxiety and the fear of the unknown? What are some of your goals and dreams? Do you have passions that you plan to pursue or are pursuing?
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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Life is not a matter of milestones, but of moments. – Rose Kennedy
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! It has been a whole year since I stepped out on faith and created my Renew Inspiration blog. I stayed committed and focused throughout the year to post inspirational and uplifting blog posts. My goal was to inspire, encourage and motivate others. In addition, I’ve also met so many awesome bloggers and authors along the way. There is so much to learn and share with one another in the blogging/writing community. I want to thank you for being supportive in many ways, such as following/subscribing to my Renew Inspiration blog, leaving encouraging blog comments, sharing my blog posts on various social media platforms, and most of all, for staying with me throughout this learning experience.
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RENEW INSPIRATION BLOG DETAILS
The harder you work for something, the greater you’ll feel when you achieve it. – Unknown Author
Always take note of who supports you genuinely. Those are the people you should always keep around. – Unknown Author
I have set up the affiliate links with WordPress, Blue Host, Amazon and Target to help me monetize my blog. Unfortunately, I have not been successful with this venture yet, but if you are in the market to setup a website or just to do some shopping, please support my endeavors by clicking on the links below to make your purchase so I can receive my first commission:
WordPress
Blue Host
Amazon
Target
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SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS
Sometimes we need someone to simply be there to let us feel that we are cared for and supported. – Unknown Author
Within a year, my Renew Inspiration social media accounts have grown so much because of supportive people like you. For that, I want to say thank you. If you have not followed my social media accounts, please follow the links below:
Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment. – Jim Rohn
• Goal #1 – To increase my Renew Inspiration blog followers/subscribers.
• Goal #2 – To increase my Renew Inspiration social media platform followers.
• Goal #3 – To market my Renew Inspiration blog using various social media platforms.
• Goal #4 – To create my first E-Book.
• Goal #5 – To finish writing my first Renew Inspiration book.
WAYS TO FIND INSPIRATION
The things that excite you are not random. They are connected to your purpose. Follow them. – Unknown Author
• Yoga and Meditation – Allows you to tune out distractions and clear your mind
• Peaceful Walk in Nature – Calms your mind, body and spirit
• Draw, Paint or Color – Helps to distract you and allows you to be creative
• Read Blogs and Inspirational Books from other Writers – Allows you to be supportive while gaining different perspectives and finding fresh thoughts/ideas
• Spend Time Researching and Brainstorming – Helps you learn new information; Knowledge is Power
• Listen to Classical, Instrumental, Jazz or Gospel Music – Helps to calm and relax you
• Try a Hobby – Allows you to enjoy something you are passionate about
• Give Yourself Time to be Disconnected – Quiet time to write in your journal, to think and let your mind wander freely
• Surround yourself with positive things that energize you – Fresh flowers, beautiful paintings/pictures, quotes/affirmations
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
The most important person to keep your promises to, is yourself. – Unknown Author
• What makes you proud of yourself right now in this very moment?
• Who inspires you and why?
• What’s your affirmation for today?
• What is your vision for the next 6 months? year?
• What fear is holding you back?
• How do you respond to setbacks and failure?
• What is one behavior you need to let go this year?
• What did you do today that brought you closer to your goal/dream?
• What do I need more of in my life?
• How can I love myself on today? 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
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).
Getting organized is a sign of self-respect. – Gabrielle Bernstein
Welcome back to Renew Inspiration and Happy New Year! Let’s get organized in 2019. Did you know that the secret of your future is hidden in your daily routine? If you take the time to organize and commit to your daily routine, you will become happier, successful and strive to keep and/or maintain a healthy lifestyle. Now, let’s define a healthy lifestyle as a process and a personal journey created by focusing on various healthy choices or habits each day.
When we clear the physical clutter from our lives, we literally make way for inspiration and good, orderly direction to enter. – Julia Cameron
Remember, this process is personal so think about what you want different in your life or how you want to change your current situation. Then, build your healthy choices or habits on a strong foundation (your goals, beliefs and values). In addition, take time to learn more about your life, nutrition, fitness, spiritual-being to help you become a better version of you in 2019. Have fun and make the best of it!
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KEEP IT SIMPLE
For me, a calm house equals a calm heart, equals a calm life. – Erica Layne
Let’s start with getting our house organized. A cluttered home can drain your energy and have you living in a chaotic state of mind. Take a moment from your busy schedule and go to every room in your house to place everything in its correct place. You may need to create a new space for some things as well to become more organized.
Here’s some organization suggestions:
• Toss old or broken items in the trash.
• Donate slightly used items to your local charity.
• Store, sort and label items for easy access.
• Clean, organize and purge your desk/work/closet areas.
For every minute spent in organizing, an hour is earned. – Benjamin Franklin
Do you find yourself constantly rushing through your day or forgetting things? If so, you need to focus on organizing your time. Getting organized and proper time management can impact your life in a positive way and help you cross things off your daily to-do list.
Here’s some organization and time management suggestions:
• Use one calendar or planner to manage your daily activities.
• Don’t overbook yourself. Don’t be afraid to say no sometimes.
• Use a daily to-do list as a quick checklist and make necessary adjustments.
• Schedule in “ME” time or time to just relax just like any other appointment.
MIND
When we throw out the physical clutter, we clear our minds. When we throw out the mental clutter, we clear our souls. – Gail Blanke
Here’s some positive ways to organize your mind throughout this process:
• Spend Time in Meditation – quiet your mind, calm your spirit throughout your day
• Set Personal Goals throughout the process.
• Track Progress of your personal goals throughout the process.
• Keep a Personal Journal or Blog capturing your thoughts and feelings.
BODY
Organization isn’t about perfection, it’s about efficiency, reducing stress & clutter, saving time & money & improving your overall quality of life. – Christina Scalise
Here’s some positive ways to organize your body throughout this process:
• Schedule “ME” time often.
• Practice Self-Care activities, such as haircut, manicure, pedicure, facial, warm bath, etc.
• Create a Daily Ritual. For example, reading before bedtime or exercising in the morning.
• Exercise Daily, no exceptions.
• Planning and Cooking Healthy Meals.
• Schedule Time to Relax. For example, read a good book, dance, write or family outings.
SPIRIT
Seek God first. Everything else will fall into place. – Unknown Author
One of the tactics the enemy uses against believers is to keep us disorganized and feeling scattered throughout life. The enemy wants to replace our godly priorities with worldly distractions.
To avoid feeling disconnected from God, you should do the following:
• Read and Study Scriptures Daily – sacrifice time to read and study scriptures
• Hide Scriptures in your Heart – know scriptures so you can speak to your situation
• Keep a Journal – scriptures, prayers, thoughts or feelings, notes from scriptures or books
• Pray and Meditate – be in constant communication with God
• Listen to the Holy Spirit – stay connected with God so you can hear His voice
POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS
Be patient with yourself. Nothing in nature blooms all year. – Unknown Author
Take time daily to repeat these positive affirmations:
• I am whole, feel complete and I continue to believe in me.
• I acknowledge my own self-worth and my confidence is soaring.
• I can do anything I put my mind to.
• I give myself permission to make choices.
• I deserve love, compassion and empathy.
• I honor my commitments to myself.
• I choose to be happy and positive each day.
• I am open and ready to learn.
• I have the power to make all my dreams come true.
• I am free of worry and am at peace with who I am.
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TIME FOR REFLECTION – JOURNAL PROMPTS
A little progress each day adds up to big results. – Unknown Author
• What is your vision for 2019 and beyond?
• What is your priority for the next week? month?
• What did you do today that helped you get organized?
• What are you struggling with at the moment?
• What would you like to change your daily routine?
• What’s holding you back from improving your lifestyle?
• Write about someone who inspires you and why.
• Write about your favorite way to recharge your energy levels.
• Write about what’s on your mind right now.
So, the best way to get things organized in your life is to simply begin. It’s important to remember that getting organized is your personal journey. Your personal roadmap to a successful and prosperous life.
Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!
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