Creating A Life Map

Today was day 6 of the 31 Days Reset Your Life challenge. The exercise was to create a life map. It is a tool that will help you focus on 7 areas of your life: Work, Family, Lifestyle, Health, Relationships, Education, Finances. First you have to brainstorm and write down your visions for each area of your life, then you use a map to put everything together. For more information on creating a Life Map and to get a free workbook created by Rosetta (creator of Happy Black Woman)  visit 31 Days To Reset Your Life . I encourage you to create one and get other friends/family members to make one as well. Also here is mine: (Had to take a picture of my computer screen b/c the program I used wouldn't let me upload) But anyway here it is: 

Inspirational Quote

"The only courage you need is to live your heart's desire."-Oprah Winfrey

A Time To Re-Evaluate

Well it is December the last month of the year. Can you believe how fast the year has flown by. I know we have made a lot of progress this year and have grown as a person. Maybe you still feel stuck or that you need to be doing more. I feel that way sometimes. It is that time to re-evaluate your life and make more necessary changes to keep growing and improving yourself. I follow this blog called Happy Black Woman by Rosetta Thurman and a few days ago she announced that she would be starting a 31 Days to Reset Your Life Challenge. I thought this would be a great way to end a year and to begin/prepare for the start of a new year. You can join the challenge as well by going here 31 Days To Reset Your Life. I will try to blog about it everyday  and tweet about it as well, but the majority of the time I will be writing in my journal. I hope you all consider taking this journey. Finish off the year strong and start off the new year with fierce determination.

Day 1 of the challenge, which started yesterday (Dec. 1) : We had to choose a "Reset" notebook, a journal that you would write about the daily exercises and how you feel about the exercise. Then you had to choose a mantra that encouraged you and  keeps you motivated.

Must Have Tips For Success

Napoleon Hill's 17 Principles of Personal Achievement   

-Napoleon  Hill  January 26, 2009 

Lesson 1: Definiteness of Purpose
Definiteness of purpose is the starting point of all achievement. Without a purpose and a plan, people drift aimlessly through life.
Lesson 2: Mastermind Alliance
The Mastermind principle consists of an alliance of two or more minds working in perfect harmony for the attainment of a common definite objective. Success does not come without the cooperation of others.
Lesson 3: Applied Faith
Faith is a state of mind through which your aims, desires, plans and purposes may be translated into their physical or financial equivalent.
Lesson 4: Going the Extra Mile
Going the extra mile is the action of rendering more and better service than that for which you are presently paid. When you go the extra mile, the Law of Compensation comes into play.
Lesson 5: Pleasing Personality
Personality is the sum total of one’s mental, spiritual and physical traits and habits that distinguish one from all others. It is the factor that determines whether one is liked or disliked by others.
Lesson 6: Personal Initiative
Personal initiative is the power that inspires the completion of that which one begins. It is the power that starts all action. No person is free until he learns to do his own thinking and gains the courage to act on his own.
Lesson 7: Positive Mental Attitude
Positive mental attitude is the right mental attitude in all circumstances. Success attracts more success while failure attracts more failure.
Lesson 8: Enthusiasm
Enthusiasm is faith in action. It is the intense emotion known as burning desire. It comes from within, although it radiates outwardly in the expression of one’s voice and countenance.
Lesson 9: Self-Discipline
Self-discipline begins with the mastery of thought. If you do not control your thoughts, you cannot control your needs. Self-discipline calls for a balancing of the emotions of your heart with the reasoning faculty of your head.
Lesson 10: Accurate Thinking
The power of thought is the most dangerous or the most beneficial power available to man, depending on how it is used.
Lesson 11: Controlled Attention
Controlled attention leads to mastery in any type of human endeavor, because it enables one to focus the powers of his mind upon the attainment of a definite objective and to keep it so directed at will.
Lesson 12: Teamwork
Teamwork is harmonious cooperation that is willing, voluntary and free. Whenever the spirit of teamwork is the dominating influence in business or industry, success is inevitable. Harmonious cooperation is a priceless asset that you can acquire in proportion to your giving.
Lesson 13: Adversity & Defeat
Individual success usually is in exact proportion of the scope of the defeat the individual has experienced and mastered. Many so-called failures represent only a temporary defeat that may prove to be a blessing in disguise.
Lesson 14: Creative Vision
Creative vision is developed by the free and fearless use of one’s imagination. It is not a miraculous quality with which one is gifted or is not gifted at birth.
Lesson 15: Health
Sound health begins with a sound health consciousness, just as financial success begins with a prosperity consciousness.
Lesson 16: Budgeting Time & Money
Time and money are precious resources, and few people striving for success ever believe they possess either one in excess.
Lesson 17: Habits
Developing and establishing positive habits leads to peace of mind, health and financial security. You are where you are because of your established habits and thoughts and deeds.

 Checkout  Success Magazine for more great articles and success tips. Also, sign up to receive their weekly newsletter called "Success Seeds" that has great tips, articles and other resources.

Motivational Quote

"The path to success is to take massive, determined action."-Tony Robbins

How To Love Yourself !

1. Fall in love with yourself. Think about what makes you You. Just like a flower that needs watering to grow, learn to nurture yourself in every way. Love yourself for all the good that you see and accept your flaws and the fact that you are imperfect. This does not mean that you do not learn to change from your shortcomings; instead, you are being gentle and kind to yourself despite all your “flaws”. Look in the mirror and fall in love with the reflection that is You.


2. Eliminate Self Criticism. Do you often berate yourself over the tiniest thing? Is there a little voice inside your head that often tells you that you are no good because you are stupid or make mistakes. If you find that you criticize yourself often, make an effort to stop the self criticism.


3. Be Kind And Positive. When you start to think kindly and positively about yourself, the love you have for yourself just grows. Make it a habit to praise yourself everyday, while in the front of the mirror. Because of such thoughts, you naturally undertake empowering actions that support your development.

4. Acknowledge Your Effort. It’s not always about winning or having success in everything that you do. Many times, it is the effort that counts! Acknowledge that you’ve done your best, even if you have failed to produce tangible results.

Affirmation: I am beautiful!

5. Let Go Of Worry. Loving yourself requires you to let go of your worry. It is a horrible way to live a life filled with constant worrying. I can attest to that! Worry does not help in any way. It cannot, on its own, make things happen. Only wise actions can! So instead of worrying, spend time thinking about what you can do to help in the situation. If the situation is beyond your control, then ask the Universe for your desired outcome and let things work out on their own. Things will come to be, if they are meant to be.

6. Trust Yourself. Have confidence in your abilities. Know that you have the ability to make important changes for yourself, for as long as you put your heart to it. You can also support yourself by visualizing desired outcomes.


7. Forgive Yourself. If you have made mistakes in the past that had caused you to feel less worthy, then you need to forgive yourself. All of us make mistakes; so there really is no need to beat yourself up over them. Or if you’ve been carrying around a baggage of emotional hurt because of a childhood trauma, learn to forgive yourself.


8. Be Truthful To Yourself. Loving yourself requires you to be truthful about your own feelings. If you are happy, acknowledge the joy. If you are sad, acknowledge the sorrow. When you are truthful about your feelings, you do not try to lie to yourself or seek to bury your negative emotions. Instead, acknowledging what you feel provides a good guide to what your thoughts are. And as we all know, thoughts can be changed, so that healing and self growth can take place.

9. Grow Spiritually. When you spend time growing spiritually, loving yourself is an automatic thing. You become more peaceful, connected, kind, loving and compassionate. You nurture a mind that grows more beautiful by the day. How to not love yourself in the process?

10. Make Positive Affirmations Everyday. Post affirmations that can help raise your self esteem everyday. For instance, say this to yourself “I love and accept myself completely and unconditionally.” Read your affirmations out loud several times a day.

11. Express Gratitude. Express gratitude for the person that you are. For instance, cultivate an appreciation for your strengths and gifts. Also, feel a sense of gratitude that you are alive and well, and fully capable of making a difference in your life.

Affirmation: I except myself as I am.

12. Nurture Your Dreams. Why deny yourself your dreams? When you nurture your dreams, you would love the life that you are leading. Every moment that you live is a joy because you are expressing yourself fully.

13. Boost Your Self Confidence. Make a deliberate attempt to look for opportunities that can help improve your sense of Self. For instance, if you are particularly good at doing something, set aside more time to indulge and improve your skills on it. Knowing that you have particular gifts can boost your self esteem.

14. Relax. You need to give yourself space to take breaks every now and then. If you spend your time working, without paying attention to your health, it also means that you do not love yourself well enough to take care of your own body. Fill your time with silence, soothing music and visions of beauty; anything that nourishes your Soul.

15. Have Fun. Inject some fun into your life. Life is meant to be an enjoyable. Don’t take life or yourself too seriously. If you can think of life in this manner, you automatically relax and quit worrying over things that do not matter.

16. Look After Your Body. It is important that you strengthen yourself with proper nutrition and regular exercise. Your body is a temple and you should treat it with respect, love and care. It has been found that the lack of self love is often the root causes of conditions like eating disorders, obesity or even terminal diseases. 

17. Learn To See Beauty. When you learn to see beauty in every thing, you will also see beauty in yourself. Hence, stop to smell the flowers. Notice everything. Feel everything. The pink blush of the flowers in your garden, the greenness of the plains, the whisper of the gentle wind, or the myriad hues of an evening sky.

From:
Abundance Tapestry

Motivational Quote

"Don't limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to what they think they can do. You can go as far as your mind lets you. What you believe, remember, you can achieve."
- Mary Kay Ash

Happy November!

Wow can you believe that it is November already. Time sure does fly. There is only 2 months left of 2010. I know right, where did this year go. Schedule some time to check in with yourself. Review and re evaluate your goals. With this month comes a lot of new opportunities to take advantage of.

Some Inspiring Words To Keep In Mind

Teamwork Makes The Dream Work! 

As you are work on accomplishing your goals and dreams, you can also help someone else go after their goals. Work as a team and watch how fast things start happening. Find and surround yourself with people who are ambitious, positive and serious about accomplishing their goals. 

Wow.....It's September Already

As I look up at my calendar, it is already September 3, 2010. Time sure is flying by. I just want you to take sometime to re-evaluate your goals and set some new monthly goals. Create a plan of action to help you accomplish them. Break the steps down in to smaller parts so that you will not feel overwhelmed with work. I know some of us may have lost focus, feel a little down, or not feeling motivated. That is okay to feel these emotions but you have to keep moving forward. You are in control of your life and emotions and you can get back on track to happiness and working towards your goals.

Today is a great day to start over and begin again. This is a new month that will provide you with many more opportunities. Pick up a book that you have been meaning to read. Start that class you have been debating about, get your work out routine together, write in your journal, or finish that project you started. Whatever it is that you want to do begin again today. One of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou is "Nothing will work unless you do."   Don't let anyone or anything discourage you or keep you from your dreams.  Have a great September. Stay inspired! 

What Would You Do If You Had No Arms Or Legs?

This is a great video about overcoming obstacles. Don't put limits on your life.

Nick Vujicic's Principles:

• BE THANKFUL!
• DREAM BIG!
• NEVER GIVE UP!

Why Not Live Your Dreams?

I know that you spend countless hours staring at a television screen watching all of these crazy, outrageous reality shows. I have watched my share of these shows as well. They can become addicting. Do you ever ask yourself, "Why am I watching this?" If so that means you know that you could be spending that thirty minutes or hour doing something more productive. How about cutting back the time you watch these shows and spend more time  working on accomplishing one of your goals. Instead of watching a reality show about someone else, start working on and creating your own reality. Live your dreams. Remember that you are a unique individual and I know that you have a lot of things you want to do with your life. So go ahead and start working on making them happen. Live and watch your own reality of  accomplishing your dreams and goals. Start today. 

"Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So....get on your way."-Dr. Seuss

LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT! SO MAKE IT COUNT!

Why Not Now?

"Don't wait. The time will never be just right."-Napoleon Hill

If there is something that you want to do, create, or experience what are you waiting for? Do it now. If you want to start living your dreams, take the steps now to get you there. Like Nike says, "Just Do It". There is never a right time. Why wait until later to get started when you can start right now. Whatever it is that you want to do, go do it now.

Are You Crystal Clear?

If you look at a crystal piece, like a vase you are able to see through it and see what it is. Well being crystal clear about the things that you want in life will help you make better decisions. When you are setting your goals you need to be clear about what you actually want. Also, while you are working on accomplishing your goals make sure that you are clear about what things that you need to do to make your goal or dream become your reality. Clarity is key when you are working on goal setting. An example:  I want to lose weight, this is vague but if you were to say I want to lose 30 pounds by November 20, 2010 it becomes more clear of what you want to accomplish. So as you are working on your goals and for future goals you make be come clear about what you really want. Take a sheet of paper and write out all of your goals and dreams. Then ask yourself are you being clear about the things you want. If they are not clear make some changes so that they can be more clear.

Image found on www.stumbleupon.com

I Challenge You......

I challenge you to read a book a month. You can learn a lot from books. My favorite place to go to is the bookstore just to relax and take time for myself. Reading can be a great way to improve skills that you have or help you to develop new skills. By the books you choose to read you will be able to learn a lot about yourself. Start your own personal library and if you have kids do the same with them. Read, read, read! A tip for you to do while you are reading is to take notes on the things that inspire you, motivate you, or something you want to learn more about and even quotes that stick out to you. I hope you take the challenge and read one book a month. Happy reading! 

Go Through Test So You Can Have A Testimony

If you feel that something is always going wrong and things are not happening the way you want them, it is only because you are being tested. You know how in school you have to sit through lectures and study the information so that you can take a test and you want to pass the test so that you can get a good grade. Well your life experiences are exactly the same thing, they are test. You have learned a lot through out life and with each experience that you go through you have the information to pass the test. Sometimes you may fail or have a bad experience but remember that it is just a test and be sure to understand the lesson that was presented to you. In life you are always going to have a series of test but you must remain strong and push through any situation. People tell me that you can't have a testimony without a few tests. These experiences that you are facing or may face are only going to help you with your testimony and a long the way you will learn a lot of things about yourself. When you are faced with a test do it with a smile and a positive attitude and remember that anything you may experience is putting you steps closer to accomplishing your dreams. Always believe in yourself! Have Faith! Be Strong! Continue to go after your dreams!

CHOOSE TO BE HAPPY! KNOW THAT HAPPINESS LIES WITHIN YOU!

Be Grateful

Heart of Gratitude!!!

A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: I am blind, please help." There were only a few coins in the hat.

A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by would see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?"

The man said, "I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way."

I wrote: "Today is a beautiful day but I cannot see it."

Both signs told people that the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told people that they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the Story: Be thankful for what you have.. Be creative. Be innovative. Think differently and positively.

When life gives you a 100 reasons to cry, show life that you have 1000 reasons to smile Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear.

The most beautiful thing is to see a person smiling…

And even more beautiful is, knowing that you are the reason behind it!!!

Source: www.funzug.com

Inspiration From The First Lady

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Some Words Of Wisdom From First Lady Michelle Obama:

• "Don't ever scale back your dreams. And don't ever set limits on what you can achieve. And don't think for one single moment that your destiny is out of your hands, because no one's in control of your destiny but you."-From Commencement Speech at Anacostia High School (Washington Post)

•  "One of the lessons that I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals. And so when I hear about negative and false attacks, I really don't invest any energy in them, because I know who I am."-From Marie Claire Magazine Interview 

• "So I encourage you, young sister, to stay smart and thoughtful and creative. And encourage your girlfriends to do the same. Keep reading, learning and sharing your thoughts and ideas. Own who you are and be proud of you. I am."-From Letters To A Young Sister by Hill Harper 

Picture Source: Glamour.com 

Reading Recommendation

I have been hearing about this book called "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho which is about following your dreams and I finally decided to pick it up to see what the fuss was all about. Well I have to say that it starts off with an inspirational introduction by the author. It is a great  read and it motivates you to keep moving towards your dreams and not to give up. This book will change your life in some kind of way. It is a quick read, I read it in about a week. So add this book to your summer reading list.

**** "When You Want Something, All The Universe Conspires To Help You Achieve It"-Paulo Coelho****

"Too Often We Underestimate The Power Of A Touch, A Smile, A Kind Word, A Listening Ear, An Honest Compliment, Or The Smallest Act Of Caring, All Of Which Have The Potential To Turn A Life Around."-Leo F. Buscaglia

The Optimist Creed

Promise yourself….

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind;
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet;
To make all your friends feel that there is something in them;
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true;
To think only the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best;
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own;
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future;
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile;
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others;
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear; and too happy to permit the presence of trouble;
To think well of yourself and to proclaim this fact to the world, not in loud words, but in great deeds;
To live in the faith that the whole world is on your side so long as you are true to the best that is in you.

The Optimist Creed by Christian D. Larson
Also can be found in The Secret www.thesecret.tv

What A Great Attitude To Have

I saw this video of a little girl saying her daily affirmation and I loved it. She has a great attitude. This is how you have to be with your affirmations. So check it out.

Get Back On Track

I know we all started off 2010 with so many goals that we wanted to accomplish, so what have you accomplished so far? Are you still making progress? Well I am here to tell you that if you are not on track of accomplishing one of your 2010 goals, it's okay. Now it is time to look of over your goals and revise them. Revise your goals and start from where you are. Whatever you do, you have to keep working towards your goal. So for the rest of 2010 get back on track and go hard for the remainder of the year and finish getting those goals accomplished. If you want it bad enough you will make it happen. Don't get discouraged, life happens. Just regroup and start again. Good luck with accomplishing the rest of your goals. Be persistent!

Always Remember.....

India.Arie-There's Hope -www.youtube.com

Time Is Of The Essence

Do you find yourself wasting hours upon hours doing nothing? When I say doing nothing, I mean not being productive or using the time that you do have to better yourself and your life. Do you think to yourself that maybe you can use the time you are wasting to be more productive and work towards your goals. Hey we all have issues with time. We complain time flies by or that there is not enough time in a day. Guess what everyone has the same amount of hours in a day, no more or no less. You just have to manage your time so that you are able to get the things you want done. If you have to make list so that you can see that you are checking things off, then do so. Schedule blocks of time for certain activities, work, school, etc. If you look at all of the hours you have wasted on things like watching television, talking on the phone, or just sitting around doing absolutely nothing, you could have completed a couple of your goals. I just want you to know that you can just start off with 5 or 10 minutes to work at accomplishing a goal and it will be completed in no time. Stop wasting your time. I know you have heard the saying, "Time Is Money", well it is true and you should treat your own personal time that way. Don't let others waste your time either. Set priorities for the things that are important to you and make sure you get those things done first. My time is precious and I am working on prioritizing and making better choices with my time. We are all works in progress, so don't be discouraged. Take it one step at a time.

What Is Your Story?

Everyone has a unique story to share about their life. Some people stories can be similar or they can be totally different. I want you to think about your life story and you can even write it down when you get a chance. This activity is to get you thinking about where you have came from and where you are going. You have to know where you came from so that you can get where you are going. Now that you have thought about or wrote down your story, whether it was about the struggles you went through, the environment you grew up in, the abuse you experienced (physical,sexual,emotional) and the good things you remember or all of the above, it has all made you into the person you are today. I want you to think about your story because you need to know that you can rise above whatever you have experienced in life and be successful at whatever your heart desires. Also, you can help other people who have gone through the same thing as you have by starting an organization or volunteering in areas that touch you in some way. Know that you are not your circumstances and there are many resources for you to get help or to help someone you know. Do not let your circumstances hold you back from achieving your dreams. Continue to pursue your dreams. Maya Angelou says, "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." So share your stories with others because you never know who it may help and don't let it keep you from following your dreams.

Great Inspirational Song

What are you waiting for?



Mary Mary-Get Up
www.youtube.com

Get Out Of Your Own Way

Sometimes you are holding yourself back from reaching your full potential and unleashing your greatness. That is why I am telling you to get out of your own way. Getting out of your own way means that you need to stop living an unhealthy lifestyle, stop comparing yourself to other people, stop sitting around watching hours upon hours of television shows, and  stop all of the self-defeating thoughts ( I am fat, I can't do it, blah, blah, blah, etc.) . Those are all affirmations and they are what you call the negative ones. Remember you want to change negative thoughts into positive ones. When you change your thoughts to help you be a better person, you are getting out of your own way. Also, in the process of getting out of your own way is facing your fears. When you stand up to your fears that is going to give you POWER to know that you can do anything you put your mind to. Step out of your box (comfort zone) and do things that you do not normally do, like take a dance class, talk to people when you are out doing daily activities, volunteer, write poetry, etc. When you are learning and participating in new activities, you are giving yourself the opportunity to grow as a person. From here on out please get out of your own way so that you are able to reach your full potential and realize the greatness in you. Say to yourself everyday and out loud: YES I CAN DO IT!

"Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You."-Dr. Seuss

"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind" -Dr. Seuss

"You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection."-Buddha

Make A Pledge To Yourself

I pledge to:

have the courage to embrace and love myself exactly as I am today

recognize the strength and beauty in my body

engage in positive self-talk

celebrate my uniqueness

focus on all the things I am able to do because of my beautiful body

practice gratitude for the strength in my body today

not base my happiness on the way I feel about my body

stop judging other women by the way they look

make peace with my body

be an ambassador of Real Beauty and shine my beauty wherever I go

I found it on www.realbeautyis.com , not sure if it is still on there. This is also another great site to check out. 

Dear Self....

Dear Self :

I love you today!
I honor you today!
I respect you today!
Today, I intend to take good care of you.
Today, I intend to do everything in my power to
   make sure that you have the best day you ever had.
Today, I will do everything I can to make sure that you grow
 and shine
 and have a good time.
Today, I realize that I Am It!
For this I am so grateful!


From: Don't Give It Away! A workbook of Self-Awareness and Self-Affirmations for Young Women by Iyanla Vanzant. <----Great book to pick up for yourself and other young women in your life.

Giving Up Can Not Be An Option

I wanted to let you all know that you should go after your heart's deepest desires. Whatever your goals are that you want to accomplish, go after them. Make a plan and figure out the steps you need to take so that you can accomplish them. Do not let any obstacles keep you from getting to your goal. Remember that an obstacle is a learning tool to let you know that you have lost sight of your goal. Stay focused, work hard, and be determined to accomplish your goal. I have had a few obstacles on my course to getting into a nursing program. I wanted to give up but one of my mentors told me that obstacles are just stepping stones to your destination. So I just had to regroup and get focused on what I needed to accomplish. The results of never giving up and being determined and persistent is that I am now in a great nursing program that starts on Monday, March 22, 2010. I am now closer to accomplishing my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. So I am here to tell you that nothing can keep you from your dreams but you. Keep working hard and it will payoff. Go for it, I know you can do it.

Wish You Were Someone Else?

A Self-Esteem Poem. Written By Ellen Bailey


Why would you want to be someone else
When you could be better by being yourself
Why pretend to be someone you are not
When you have something they haven't got

Cheating yourself of the life you have to live
Deprives others of that only which you can give
You have much more to offer by being just you
Than walking around in someone else's shoes

Trying to live the life of another is a mistake
It is a masquerade; nothing more than a fake
Be yourself and let your qualities show through
Others will love you more for being just you

Remember that God loves you just as you are
To Him you are already a bright shining star
Family and friends will love you more too
If you spent time practicing just being you"

http://www.help-my-self-esteem.com/self-esteem-poems.html

Journaling

Journaling is a great thing to do. All you need is something to write with and some paper. You can put together your own journal or you can buy one. Just make sure you personalize it. With journaling you can do a lot of different things, like you can write about your feelings, daily activities, your goals, your progress, there is no limit on the topics you can write on because this is your personal journal. You can draw pictures, write poems, quotes, lyrics, or paste pictures of things that represent you. Journaling is very therapeutic and it helps people to cope with certain things they may be going through. In one of my college English classes, my teacher gave a topic everyday to write on or sometimes we would have free choice to write about whatever we wanted. The only thing the professor said was to just keep writing and do not worry about errors. She called it the "puke it up philosophy", just let the words come out on to the paper. So I hope you take the time each day for some personal journaling time, if you don't already and if you already are just continue to do so. Happy Journaling. Remember this is your personal journal and journey. Write, Write, and write some more.

I Am Grateful For...I Am Thankful For...

Create a gratitude journal or notebook. You can get them at any store for an inexpensive price. Like always you can be as creative as you wish. When you do anything just make sure you make it your own, put your own twist on it. I want you to take time each day, either in the morning or evening or whenever you find time. But I suggest you pick a time to write in it everyday, so you won't forget. I keep mind by my bed and I write in it before I go to sleep. You are going to start off by writing 5 things in your life that you are grateful for. For example: I am grateful for a bed to sleep in. I am grateful for the support of my family. I am grateful for being able to take a hot shower. Everyday try to add on to your list. Doing this journal will help you realize that you have so much to be grateful for and that your life is not as bad as you make it seem. Make this your daily activity and appreciate all that you have in your life. 

Remember This....

Don't Quit

Anonymous

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, And you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit Rest if you must, but don't you quit. Life is queer with its twists and its turns, As everyone of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about When they might have won, had they stuck it out. Don't give up though the pace seems slow, You may succeed with another blow. Often the goal is nearer than, It seems to a faint and faltering man, Often the struggler has given up When he might have captured the victor's cup; And he learned too late when the night came down, How close he was to the golden crown. Success is failure turned inside out The silver tint of the clouds of doubt And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far; So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, It's when things seem worst that you must not quit!

Today I Want You To Know....

Make sure you meet and connect with others, that is the best way to learn new information and to answer questions you have about your interest. This is a way to find out what you have in common with others and you can find ways to help each other out on your journey through life.You never know how the person you are talking to can help some way in life. When I am out I try talk to a lot of people and make a connection. If you have some sort of business idea, school issues, etc talk to others to get help. You can also do it online with myspace, facebook, and twitter friends but be very careful and cautious with information you give out.  It is called networking. The definition of Networking:  the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically : the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.

So get out and get to networking. 

Definition Courtesy of:  http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/networking

Don't Let Anyone Take Away Your Joy

This is one of my favorite songs. Very Uplifting. A good inspirational song by Mariah Carey.



Mariah Carey: Can't Take That Away(Mariah's Theme)
Courtesy of http://www.youtube.com

Today I Want You To Know....

That you are an amazing person with so many talents. Don't let anyone put you down.

Affirmations

Affirmations are short simple statements that help you to be more positive and to declare that something is true in your life. You can make them for different areas in your life like school, health, self-esteem, and etc. When writing affirmations, you want them to be personal, positive and in the present tense. You want to write them down in places where you can see them and repeat them to yourself aloud or quietly. You can also get index cards and write them on the cards so that you are able to carry them around in your purse and backpack. You can be as creative as you want with how you present them to yourself. Here are a few examples:
- I accept myself
-I am unique
-I am a funny person and people enjoy being around me.
-I am a good student
-I am choosing to be healthy
-I am creative

















*picture courtesy of: http://www.weareamazing.com.au/assets/images/cards.jpg

Spread Your Wings

Christina Aguilera-Soar

www.youtube.com

Say No To Negative Self-Talk

I came across this site and I think it is a great idea to help yourself and others. The site is http://operationbeautiful.com/ and it was created by Caitlin who has this mission to end "Fat Talk" and to let everyone know that they are beautiful.  The site shares stories of different girls and ladies who post these notes around. The way you do it, is by writing positive messages on post-it notes and post them around in public places, in your books, on your mirrors, or anywhere someone can see it with an inspirational message. You can do this for yourself  by posting the notes around your personal area to help you to stop thinking negative about yourself. Get as creative as you like. I love this idea and thank you to Caitlin for starting this movement. So go out and inspire others and yourself by letting everyone know that they are beautiful just the way they are.

How Do You See Yourself ?

I want you to draw a picture of yourself, a self-portrait. It is okay if you do not have great drawing skills. Just sit down a draw a self portrait and on the back of the picture, I want you to write down all the things you love about yourself and why. Love and enjoy who you are. Feel free to share your picture with others or keep to yourself and use it when  you need some uplifting.

You Are Beautiful...Love Yourself!

Beautiful Flower by India Arie

Bucket List...Life List...Enjoy Life List...Love Life List...

A bucket list or life list, or whatever you choose to call it is essentially a list of things you want to do in your life before you kick the bucket(die), hence the name. You can list a 100 plus things that you truly want to do or experience in your lifetime.You can add to it daily, weekly, or monthly, it does not have to be done all at once. It could be places you want to travel to, new things you want to try, books you want to read, classes you want to take, people you want to meet, and so on. For example, I want to read all the books of my favorite author, or I want to swim with dolphins. Go snowboarding. Volunteer, hike the tallest mountain, have a spa getaway, try different foods from different cultures. It can be big or small as long as it something that you truly want to do and that will make you happy. Be as creative as you like with your bucket list, make a collage with pictures, type it out, start a blog about it. Make it enjoyable for yourself. Of course the best and most important thing is to check off each thing when you have accomplished it. You will be on your way to a fulfilling life and accomplishing goals as well. Enjoy and have fun.

Check out these sites for information and help to get you started:

http://mslistologist.com/
http://kickasslifestyle.com/create-a-kickass-lifestyle-list-and-bucket-list-ideas/
http://www.theburiedlife.com/ (A Show On MTV)
http://www.squidoo.com/100things

Also, watch the movie The Bucket List

It's All About Empowerment

Here a few sites that I have checked and I feel these could benefit you all in some way. They all have a lot of different information that could be of use to you. They are fun too. So check them out.

http://www.girlmogul.com
http://www.loveyourbody.org
http://loveyourbody.nowfoundation.org
http://www.realbeautyis.com
http://www.teen-beauty-tips.com*(Was in a previous post)

Enjoy and Learn some new information.

When You Feel Down...Pick This Up...

This is a book I picked up, because I love quotes. It has quotes on every subject you can think of, that a girl may go through in life. There are quotes from a variety of women who have all experienced what you are going through. It is a very encouraging book and before the quotes there is a short introduction with some tips and suggestions. A great book to pick up for yourself, friends, and love ones. You should read this because it has good messages and is uplifting. It will let you know that things get better and just be who you are. Go after your goals.

Find Your True Beauty

This is a website I came across and it has some pretty cool stuff on it for teen girls about true beauty. Take time to look around the site, it has a lot of information. Here is the link: http://www.teen-beauty-tips.com

I Love Quotes

MySpace Comments
                   

MySpace Comments
                   

MySpace Comments
           

MySpace Comments
                     

A Little Pick Me Up

Confidence Quotes

Express Yourself

Expressing yourself in many different ways can help you better yourself, deal with problems, help others, and is really therapeutic. Here are a few ways you can express yourself:

Art(Painting, sculpting, ceramics, etc.)
Scrapbooking
Music( writing songs or performing)
Start your own personal blog to talk about whatever you feel
Write Poetry
Write a book about your life
Journal ( You can write in in daily or as frequently as you like, very therapeutic)
Design Clothes
Dance

Just do anything that you feel will help you express yourself positively and in a good way, you can share with others or keep it for yourself but it is always good to share with others when you feel comfortable.

Aspire To Be....

Anything you want to be.

Just remember to work hard, stay focused and motivated.

Have a good ATTITUDE, it changes everything.

Think Positive!

Can You Hear The Music?

Create a play list for your iPod or Mp3 player with music that inspires you and uplifts you to believe in yourself, love yourself, and to go after your goals. Here are a few songs that are in my play list that I feel helps me when I feel down. Feel free to use some of these and of course add more of your personal favorites to make it your personal play list. Happy Listening!

So Good-Destiny's Child
Happy Face-Destiny's Child
Soar-Christina Aguilera
Girl Get It-Raven Symone
I Believe-Fantasia
Flaws and All-Beyonce
Just Like You-Keyshia Cole
Can't Take That Away-Mariah Carey
Beautiful Flower-India Arie
There's Hope-India Arie
Get Up-Mary Mary
Fly Above-Kandi
Survivor-Destiny's Child
God In Me-Mary Mary

Have fun with it.

Let's Go Over Your ABC's...

To Achieve Your Dreams, Remember Your ABC’s.....  by Wanda Carter

A-void negative sources, people, places, things and habits.

B-elieve in yourself.

C-onsider things from every angle.

D-on’t give up and don’t give in.

E-njoy life today: yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come.

F-amily and friends are hidden treasures, seek them out and enjoy their riches.

G-ive more than you planned to give.

H-ang on to your dreams.

I-gnore those who try to discourage you.

J-ust do it!                        

K-eep on trying, no matter how hard it seems. It will get better.

L-ove yourself first and foremost.

M-ake it happen.

N-ever lie, cheat, or steal. Always strike a fair deal.

O-pen your eyes and see things as they really are.

P-ractice makes perfect.

Q-uitters never win and winners never quit.

R-ead, study, and learn about everything important in your life.

S-top procrastinating.

T-ake control of your own destiny.

U-nderstand yourself in order to better understand others.

V-isualize it.

W-ant it more than anything.

X-cellerate your efforts.

Y-ou are unique of all Nature’s creations. Nothing can replace you.

Z-ero in on your target and go for it!

Welcome To 2010!!!

Hey Everyone,
  Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year! and welcome to a new decade. Wow time sure does fly by, must live every moment and enjoy the things you love most. Since it is a new year and I know everyone is going to be making resolutions, I hope to post things to help encourage you to stay focused and inspire you to do more. So don't be a stranger to the site and tell your friends and tell them to tell their friends and so on and so on. I hope everyone has a fantastic and blessed 2010. Keep your goals in mind and make sure you are taking steps each day to accomplish them. Remember when you change your thoughts, you change your attitude and the things that happen in your life. Think and Be Positive, it can change your life. You can also take time to do some reflecting on what you want to happen in your life by updating your vision/inspiration boards, goal list, and etc. You have so much to look forward to and I wish everyone the best. Good Luck!