Weekly Challenge: Building the Ideal Day One Hour at a Time

The first step to getting the things you want out of life is this: Decide what you want. Ben Stein Over the past few months, I have been very intrigued with the notion of creating the “ideal day.” Life seems … Continue reading

Stones in our paths…

If God sends us stony paths, He will provide us with strong
shoes.—Alexander Maclaren

Good morning! I don’t know about you, but I have certainly had my share of days
when I felt tested to the max. Sometimes it can be hard to keep “a chin up” when
so many things are weighing us down.

I have found that on those tough and stressful days, I am continually taught the
art of letting go, and the art of faith. We can’t control everything—and when we
try to do so, life gets heavy quickly. This simple quote is one of my favorite
reminders. We are equipped to handle what life sends our way—we simply must
learn from the lessons than can teach us, and remember to use the tools that are
given to us.

Your Turn:
Take a moment to reflect on trying times in your past and how you have pulled
through. Make a list and pat yourself on the back for what you have overcome.
Use this to inspire you when life gets tough. If you are in a tough situation
today, remember to let go.

Today’s Affirmation:
Let go and let God.

Inspirations: Consider adding a morning devotion to your Good Morning
routine. There are many great online resources for free email devotionals. Check
out:

http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/

http://www.maxlucado.com/
http://www.rbc.org/odb/odb.shtml


http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/

http://www.beliefnet.com/

http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/


http://www.backtothebible.org/devotions.html

 

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Solving problems…

“It’s not that I’m so smart , it’s just that I stay with problems longer.” Albert Einstein

Good morning! I love that Einstein, one of the greatest minds offered this wisdom-filled quote. When I read it I immediately wondered if perhaps the definition of “smart” is: staying with a problem until the answer is found. Maybe many people who “look smart” don’t necessarily grasp things more quickly, but have persistence and perseverance.

Although I am far from Einstein, I could relate to this quote. Many people have asked how I have overcome certain obstacles or created certain processes. It certainly wasn’t a stroke of genius, brilliance or a light bulb flash above my head. I simply stayed with the problem longer. I believe every problem must have a solution. A personal commitment to discovering the solution is what makes the difference.

As we learn to problem solve, our problem-solving skills develop and become stronger. The only thought-pattern required to implementing positive problem-solving skills in your own life is a curious mind and the belief that each problem must have a solution.

Your Turn:

Work on increasing your problem-solving skills. Instead of shrinking away from a challenge or problem, realize that each challenge or problem does have a solution – become a detective with the aim of uncovering it. Some solutions can be discovered in a day, some may take months – but the solutions are there. Try writing down a problem you are facing. Then ask yourself questions to begin exploring solutions. Some questions you might try include: How did this problem come into being? Who do I know that might be able to give me ideas or strategies for solving this problem? What would the answer/solution look like? What steps are needed to get that answer or solution? What role did I play in the creation of this problem and if I reversed my actions/thought patterns, would that impact a solution? What are 5 crazy solutions I can dream up? (Brainstorming quick lists –no matter how outrageous– helps us become creative in our approach and solution focused).

Your Affirmation:
For every challenge or problem, I know there is a solution. I also know that I can find it.

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Standing Tall

Expect trouble as an inevitable part of life, and when it comes, hold your head high. Look it squarely in the eye, and say, “I will be bigger than you. You cannot defeat me.” Ann Landers

Good morning! When Ann Landers was asked to give advice about successful living, she shared the above quote. I hadn’t heard this quote until this past week, when I read it in a book I had received for Christmas. Interestingly, that same day, Judy sent the quote through to me. I figured that was a sign to put it at the top of the list for Good Mornings!

When I read Ann’s words, I was filled with a feeling of “Yes!! That is what it takes to live our best life. We don’t shy from trouble, we stare it down.” As a business owner and an Entrepreneur, I have lived this quote over and over. There is nothing more rewarding than the day you realize that within you have everything you need and are perfectly capable of overcoming whatever life throws your way. When we get to the place where we can welcome all of life–the good, the bad and the ugly–with confidence, we know a peace beyond measure.

Your Turn:

Realize that we cannot run from trouble, it is an inevitable part of life. However we can learn to rise above it. Welcome all of life’s experiences–the good, the bad and the ugly. Challenge yourself to look these experiences in the eye and use them as a catalyst to become the “very best” you can be.

Your Affirmation:

I am bigger than any troubles.

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