Tag Archives: #challenges

#inspiration

Obstacles

Obstacles are defined as, “something that hinders progress.” Running late because of traffic congestion fits this definition. But we can’t control traffic. However , there is an obstacle we do have control over.

Our biggest obstacle lies between our ears. We pay far too much attention to the inner voice that tries to discourage us, and not enough time listening to the voice of encouragement.

The first step in controlling your thoughts is you must believe you can. Without belief you will not get anywhere. Once you learn you can control your thinking, then it gets easier to get rid of negative, unproductive thoughts. Keep doing it. It’s the same as building muscle. The longer you lift, the stronger you become.

Both voices will remain in your mind forever. You decide which one to listen to…

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#inspiration

Accountability

All of us are accountable to someone. When we were children it was our parents. When we got jobs we were accountable to our boss. There is no such thing as a “self-made man.” We had guidance along the way.

We are accountable to ourselves, too. If we eat crap it will show in our physical appearance. Don’t exercise? Prepare to be stiff and overweight. We must take ownership of the personal decisions we have made and continue to make.

I encourage you to take care of yourself, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Your life will have less chaos and deeper fulfillment…

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#inspiration

Pressure

I work well under pressure. Some people don’t like pressure and deadlines, and that’s okay. I thrive in it.

This might be due to my childhood trauma. I grew up in a chaotic, oftentimes violent home. You learn coping skills when in that environment. Some of those skills help you, but many come back to haunt you if you carry them into adulthood.

Whatever pressure cooker you do your best in, keep doing it. There’s no shame in disliking pressure…

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#inspiration

Mistakes

I have made more mistakes than I can count. Thomas Edison failed over 10,000 times when searching for a long-burning filament. Abraham Lincoln ran for public office eight times before finally succeeding.

None of us fail from our mistakes. We learn from them. Getting things right the first time happens but it’s a rarity.

If you are in the middle of a struggle, I encourage you to keep going. You get closer to a breakthrough every time you try and don’t succeed…

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#inspiration

Family

Families can be difficult. We don’t get to choose the family we are born into. Nor are we offered the opportunity for a new selection once we are born.

Our name is the first foundation of our identity. If we do something that we get notoriety for, we either bring honor or shame to our family’s name and reputation. These “honors” can go on for generations.

Abuse is a familial malady that lasts until someone puts a stop to it. That, too, can last for generations.

No matter the family we are born into, our sole obligation is to be the best person we can possibly be. We have a choice…

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#inspiration

Boundaries

Why are boundaries difficult for people to set? Let’s explore this a little.

Setting boundaries begins with a healthy self esteem. You value yourself in the right way, therefore you are careful with your time. This isn’t ego, it’s a way to take care of yourself. Saying yes to everything will burn you out. Too much stress in your system will produce inflammation.

Learn to say no to anything that doesn’t enrich your life. It’s okay…

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#inspiration

Agendas

One thing I learned from experience is that most people have agendas. They want something from others and then they are through with them.

I’m not being negative or rude, I’m stating an observation. Perhaps you know someone of influence or prestige, and someone else wants access to them. It’s not a crime, but you get to choose whether or not to grant access to the person.

I encourage you to drop any agenda you might have. Meet people where they are, as they are. You will gain so much more in your relationships without agendas…

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#inspiration

Too Much Time

We spend too much time worrying about what others think about us. We cannot control their thoughts. They are gonna think what they’re gonna think.

Our focus should be on ourselves. Are we living with integrity and compassion? Our actions will speak to the world what is in our hearts. Bringing light into the lives of others will win every time.

Let go of the fear of judgment. People are judging you anyway. God alone has authority over our lives. Let’s leave the judging to Him…

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#inspiration

Business

Have you ever known someone who likes to stick their nose in your business? All of us know those people. They tell you what to do, and then they watch to see if you followed their great advice.

I have found it works out best when I mind my own business. People can usually figure things out for themselves, and it’s better for them that they do.

It’s okay to ask for advice. Listen to what is offered, then use your mind to think it through. God gave you a wonderful marvel known as your brain. It’s there to use 24/7 if you choose to.

All of us have challenges. We grow through the difficult times, not when things are easy. Face your problems head-on, and let others do the same…

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#inspiration

Separately

I went to a restaurant the other evening. I love to people watch. Restaurants and airports are a Mecca for me.

A married couple sat down a few booths away. They were probably in their 50’s, attractive and well dressed. After the server took their drink order, the couple hardly made eye contact with each other, choosing to look around the restaurant at other sights rather than their spouse. I felt a slight sense of sadness for a moment. It was as if they were there by themselves.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, I encourage you to try to reconnect. Focus on the good in your relationship. It’s there or you wouldn’t have ever gotten together in the first place. Make it a daily effort. We are better together…

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