Flourish!

Love Thyself!

2012-02-15T16:24:00.000-05:00

Ahhh, February.

Valentine's Day has come and gone. The topic of love has been all around us. All you single people, go ahead, roll your eyes. :) But stay with me here! All we need is love, right? I'm not talking about love for just a partner or spouse, but love in general...love for all beings, souls, family, the Universe, yourself, God or other higher power in which you believe.

We all have heard about how important self love is, and there is research which shows that there are also health benefits to it! I believe love could be the focus daily -- not just Valentine's Day. So, snuggle up with yourself, grab a cup of hot tea, read a good book, take a hot bath, and know that - in the words of Louise Hay - you are perfect, whole and complete.

We all have the ability to give and receive an unlimited amount of love. Once we fill ourselves up with love, we'll have that much more to give others.

People who come from a place of love are less angry and less judgmental. When we come from a state of love and understanding, there is less judgment of others and therefore, less frustration, dislike and gossip.

Sometimes, acceptance is a first step to self love. What do I mean by that? Acceptance of - and even gratitude for - things we cannot change about ourselves. People who learn to accept things that cannot be changed cope more effectively with challenges (opportunities :)) that arise.

I have written past newsletters on coming from a place of love versus fear. Harvard doctor Eva Selhub developed the "Love Response," to prove the health benefits of focusing on LOVE. In sum, she has shown that placing your focus on love helps to decrease the stress response and even inflammation. She created the program upon the realization that being around her newborn niece gave her an amazing feeling of love, to the point in which time seemed to stand still.

One example of a technique that can help you come from a place of love is to visualize someone you love and picturing that person smiling at you to give you that feeling of peace and tranquility. You can even picture your favorite pet. :) You can also repeat positive statements to yourself, and get to the point to where you feel it...not just repeat the words.

Sometimes we are so focused elsewhere that we forgot about working on ourselves. Here are some other ways that can help create self love:

Be sure to do things which protect yourself.
Nurture your soul. (This will be specific to you.)
If you serve as a caregiver, be sure to take care of yourself as you'll be able to take much better care of your loved one(s) when you do so.
Take a mental health day.
Remind yourself that you are fortunate because....and how wonderful it is that...
Learn to say "no." Saying "no" is often saying "yes" to yourself!
Remember, holding grudges is terrible for your health.
Honor yourself as you would a baby (E. Selhub).
Remind yourself that you are enough! You have everything you need and can handle any situation that comes your way.

When you share love and come from a place of love in your daily activities, you will find that it will come back to you tenfold!

Your assignment: This week, become aware of how you're FEELING and ask yourself if you are functioning from a place fear or hate instead of LOVE. Do something nice for yourself. If you're not feeling motivated at work, find something that can make it more pleasant. Listen to music, use essential oils, make a cup of your favorite tea, take a break and or take a walk. Treat yourself to something new and good (in a healthy way, of course)! :)

Are You Living with Passion and Purpose?

2012-02-03T12:08:00.000-05:00

I sometimes hear people say they are struggling to find their life’s purpose. I have a few thoughts on that topic that I’d like to share.

First, many people tie life purpose specifically to their career. Life purpose does not have to be something you get paid for. (For example, being a great mother!)

I also believe that there is not just one purpose for each person -- other than the broad purposes such as utilizing our gifts, being the best person possible and any other religious or spiritual purpose you may believe. Here’s the deal: there is no point to get stressed out about what your one purpose is. If that’s the case, I think you’re trying too hard. It’s often right in front of us.

Instead of focusing on one purpose, the main thing to keep in mind is that we can have meaningful goals that allow you to live WITH purpose. Having a goal and a dream to live “on and with” purpose will definitely get you on your way to feeling fulfilled, stepping into your greatness and living up to your potential.

Of course you want to be authentic to who you are. No one can decide what is meaningful to you except you.

Stuck? Here are just some of the questions of the questions to consider.

What truly brings you happiness?
What do you advocate for?
What is in your life that makes you “light up” when you talk about it?
What brings you a natural high – meaning, anything you enjoy doing, find pleasurable, or are interested in?
What (or who) inspires you? Why?
What energizes you?
Is there something you or your family members have overcome that you could help others overcome?

Do any of the items on your list really strike a strong emotion with you? Be aware of any items you listed because you think you SHOULD be doing this. Or possibly worse: because someone else wants you to do this.

For guidance, sit and meditate around it. Take a walk in nature. Pray about it. Just stop and be present. Sometimes things “come to you” when you just BE, without searching or trying so hard.

It is powerful when you become inspired and align your energy live your dream life. And you know how I love the ripple effect…when you become inspired to really be who you are, it helps many more people than just you. In a way, it is not fair to others if you don’t share your gifts!

Your assignment: Identify your true passions and purpose. Be open to the process. Just BE. Find a quiet place and clear your mind. Make a list of what you are truly passionate about. Do not over-think this. Just keep writing and do not edit your list. What does your gut tell you? Let your heart guide you in this process. WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT? If you are interested in learning more, contact me today! I am a trained coach who works with passionate individuals struggling or languishing in life. When people work with me, they gain clarity around their life visions so that they live on purpose with joy and prosperity. Live life with passion and purpose!

Consciously Create Your Best Year Yet!

2012-01-19T15:07:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for a new beginning this year?

Do you:

Sometimes feel stuck?
Want to actually follow through with your resolutions and goals this year?
Need clarity on your next steps?
Find life balance to be a challenge?
Wish you could reduce stress and overwhelm?
Feel as if you're not living up to your full potential?

Don't worry! You're not alone! (Believe me, I've been there too.) The good news is you don't have to feel stuck, stressed and overwhelmed anymore!

Imagine:

Having clear, concise goals with a weekly action plan to take steps to achieve the goals.
Having an accountability partner(s) who encourages you along the way.
Having the tools to allow you to feel balanced and relaxed.
Gaining inner peace and living with passion and purpose!

Make 2012 your best year yet! I invite you to join us in this interactive 4-week tele-class that will change your life! To learn more about how you can be a part of this amazing flourishing group visit here.

Are you ready to stop the madness, set meaningful goals for yourself and find inner peace? You deserve it!

This behavior can be life-changing

2012-01-14T17:25:00.000-05:00

A big component of flourishing in life, increasing overall happiness and having your dream come to fruition is taking full responsibility for your actions. This can take some practice and I promise you that it will be life changing once you fully embrace this. For those of you who have worked on this, I’m sure you can attest!

Once you get out of any victim mentality, you will begin to take steps out of holding yourself back. Do you often get in your own way?

A major step to taking full responsibility for your life is to become mindful of your language that you use daily. Do you make excuses? Do you blame others? Awareness is crucial in order to move forward. Here’s an example, “I would exercise because no one will go with me.” In this case, it’s everyone else’s fault and the person saying falls into the victim mode instead of taking control of her life. How about, “He makes me miserable.” (Choices can range from not spending time with this person to choosing to react differently to examining your own behavior towards that person…)

Remember, we create our own realities. The point is that are always options, especially if we really want to do something. We have CHOICES of how to react and handle each situation. This includes the thoughts you choose. (Note: Even if you are thinking resentful thoughts and not stating them out loud, it’s just as harmful.) Also be cognizant of how you communicate with others. If someone points out something you may have done or about your life, squelch any reaction that you may have to say, “It’s because YOU…(fill in the blank to point the finger in defensiveness). Furthermore, no one can make you happy. This has to come from within YOU. It’s there. It’s actually our natural state – and we end up resisting it.

The best quote I have seen over the years that sums up the concept of taking responsibility is by Dr. Wayne Dyer:

Our lives are a sum total of the choices we have made.

Food for thought.

Your assignment:

Reflect on situations you may want to improve in your life. How can you take responsibility in this area? Be mindful of your innate strength and move forward taking steps with gusto!

Free Teleclass TONIGHT (January 11, 2012), 8:00pm EST

2012-01-11T08:38:00.015-05:00

Hi friends!

Have you set your intentions for this year?

I will be offering a FREE teleclass this Wednesday, Jan 11th, at 8pm EST! Come join me, Life Coach Nancie Vito. I would love to have you!

Just a couple of questions for you:

Do you set resolutions year after year only to find yourself back in the same place by February?
Do you feel like you are stuck or spinning your wheels when you want to move forward with goals?

If you said yes to either of the above, then this free teleclass is for you! Join me as my friend and colleague Alyssa Bangulian interviews me about tips for taking steps to your full potential this year.

You'll learn practical ways to stick with your "resolutions" that you can implement right away. You'll also learn why resolutions fall through the cracks for a lot of people!

HERE'S THE LINK TO REGISTER: http://conta.cc/yJqytH

Feel free to contact info@flourishwellness.org with questions! :-)

Five Ways to Feel Happier This Holiday Season

2011-12-14T16:16:00.000-05:00

Hi Friends,

I trust you're doing well! A big shout out to any new readers! Welcome.

I'll make this quick; I know it is a busy time of year! I've talked to several people lately who feel a lot of pressure to get so much done by the end of the year. Although this season is generally a joyous one, I also know this time of year can also be stressful. That being said, I thought I'd include ways to "stress less" this holiday season and to make the holidays more positive, regardless of which holiday you celebrate.

As always, feel free to let me know if you have any thoughts or questions by emailing me or posting a comment below. Also be sure to find flourish on Facebook for inspiration and positivity throughout the week!

Sending lots of love and positivity your way! Have an awesome weekend, everyone!

Peace & love,
Nancie

Thought for the day: "Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself." ~St Francis de Sales

Title: Five Ways to Feel Happier This Holiday Season by Nancie Vito

I know; holiday cards, shopping, traveling, entertaining, office parties, end-of-semester tasks....on top of the already long to-do list. I hear ya! The following are some reminders to help reduce and prevent unnecessary stress this season:

1. Create a budget and stick to it. Do not spend more than you earn and use budgeting tools (such as www.mint. com) to help you manage for finances.

2. Plan ahead. It's not too late to plan ahead for the coming weeks. Being prepared is an action you can take to reduce unnecessary stress anytime, and especially during the holidays. Carve out time do complete certain tasks and stick to it.

3. Practice patience. Find yourself stuck in a long line while holiday shopping? Practice mindfulness and keep in mind that everyone in line is in the same boat. Treat the employee behind the counter (and everyone else) with compassion. Also, practice patience, love and compassion with YOURSELF!

4. Eat well. This can be challenging during the holidays, especially if you are visiting family or friends. Make the decision now to watch your portions. Remember, foods greatly affect your moods, so choose wisely. Avoid excess caffeine and sugar. (More on that to come!)

5. Take time for yourself. Make the decision now to make this happen! When you're busy, taking time out to replenish does wonders for your mind, body and soul. You'll feel refreshed and ultimately you will be more efficient and productive.

Your assignment: This week, become aware of the actions that you choose to take. Do these actions serve you? If not, make no excuses and take steps to change your course of action! Set your goals and create a weekly action plan.

Yeah, Go Ahead...Laugh!

2011-10-27T08:07:00.000-04:00

I experienced laughter yoga for the first time about two and half years ago at a conference in Boston. If you have not yet participated in laughter yoga, I will tell you that it is a hoot! Participants start out laughing - even if faking it at first - and end up cracking themselves up throughout the session. Although we do not need scientific information to know that laughter is contagious, John Denninger, MD, PhD, confirms that laughter is indeed a "social event" and that it is definitely contagious. (You know how much I love the ripple effect!) What would our lives would be without laughter? I'm not sure I want to think too much about that. Let's be grateful for the benefits that laughter provides us.

Beyond making us feel good and raising our energy level (and vibrational frequency), studies have shown that there are many benefits of humor that we wouldn't necessarily think about.

Laughter:

Elevates mood (of course)If you do not know Loretta LaRoche, she is a brilliant comedian with a huge heart who has dedicated her life to helping people reduce stress. She has been known to say that, "Life is not a stress rehearsal." She has also noted that "We have a very short time on this planet, and we waste so many hours not really enjoying what time we have." Loretta is right: Our culture waits to have fun.
Gives a boost in immune function and helps with illness recovery
Decreases perceived stress
Serves as an aid to increase pain tolerance
Enhances memory and learning and improves brain functioning
Lowers blood pressure
And more!

Your assignment this week is a fun one! This week, find something funny in everyday situations. (Really!) Take a step back and take the 3000 foot view. Sometimes we create stories in our heads to make things a bigger deal than they really are...so why not laugh? (Yes, even at yourself -- in a loving way of course.) Give it a good belly laugh like children do, letting go of inhibitions. Here some ideas to help you to enjoy your week:

Watch comedies
Avoid the 11:00 news
Pretend that your life is a sitcom
Sing when you're doing chores
Spend time with funny people!!

Go ahead, give it a try. As always, let me know how it goes. :-)

"Through humor, you can soften some of the worst blows that life delivers. And once you find laughter, no matter how painful your situation might be. You can survive it." - Bill Cosby

Making Conscious Choices for the Best "You"

2011-10-12T17:34:00.004-04:00

Hi friends,

I trust you’ve had a great week! A big shout out to any new readers! Welcome. :)

Last weekend I had the pleasure of going to New York for my grandmother’s 90th birthday celebration. We Italians go big or go home - especially when it comes to celebrating - so we had the full 5-course meal at an Italian restaurant with over 50 of the closest family members. (Believe me, it could have easily been 250 people, but the family “kept it small.”) :-) I couldn’t help but notice the theme of love and gratitude when family members stood up to say something about my grandmother. She has always been loving, welcoming and warm – not to mention an AMAZING cook. Hearing everyone give their little speeches about my grandmother got me thinking. What do we all want people to say at our 90th birthday celebration?

As always, let me know if you have any thoughts or questions. Also be sure to find me on Facebook for inspiration and positivity throughout the week!

Peace & love,
Nancie

Conscious Choices

A friend of mine's mother used to tell my friend as a teenager to, "Remember who you are!" before going out. Although we laugh about it now, I think it can actually apply to us in our adults lives, too! :)

Many people reflected on how inspiring Steve Jobs was in light of his passing. He had courage, faith and perseverance. He followed his dreams and did not settle. What do think your friends, family and fans :) will say about you? What would you like for them to say? What are your strengths? Who are you being?

We can also remind ourselves of our values and what we consider to be really important when we look at the big picture. What do you value? Does your life reflect this?

We have opportunities every day to be conscious of the choices we make in life.

Here are some of the many brilliant thoughts that Steve Jobs expressed: "Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life because almost everything - all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose."

Food for thought.

Your assignment: Make a list of qualities and characteristics of your "ideal self." Is there anything you could change now to get you closer to that vision? Or are you already there? Are you living that life now? How do you show up every day? I strongly advocate for being mindful of your thoughts, behavior and actions. If you feel out of alignment with your "best self," stop and make the decision to put your best foot forward. We are all works in progress.

Turn Challenges Into Opportunities

2011-09-23T17:23:00.002-04:00

Hi Friends,

Happy Autumn! I trust you've had a great week. A big shout out to any new readers! Welcome. :-)

This week, my heart was heavy upon the execution of Troy Davis. As I was prayerful and made sure to do my part to take action on what I believed in, we know what the ultimate outcome was. I've been thinking about how this tragedy can be used as a catalyst for change. Many major movements came from using difficult times as opportunities. While of course we want to do what we can to prevent difficulties in the first place, the way we deal with them as they arise makes a huge difference in our well-being -- individually, as a community and ultimately globally with a ripple effect.

As always, let me know if you have any thoughts or questions. Also be sure to find me on Facebook for inspiration and positivity throughout the week!

Peace & love,

Nancie

Title: Turning Challenges Into Opportunities by Nancie Vito

The way that we look at the world greatly affects our thoughts, which ultimately affects energy, our overall health and our well-being. We can reframe certain situations as they arise and decide on choices we can make that will best serve us.

When reflecting back on what we've felt were tough times in our lives, look closely as you can see that there have likely been positives that have resulted from it. Some outcomes could have brought families together, chances to grow, or opportunities to strengthen a particular skill. Often it takes hitting "rock bottom," to push us to make changes. We don't have to wait until that point, though. With any challenge that comes in daily, create an opportunity and creatively problem solve. This can apply to anything from losing a job to dealing with an embarrassing situation. I am not downplaying traumatic events; as I always say, please do what you need to do to heal when necessary.

Sometimes we can't see the forest through the trees. Having faith and knowing that there is a higher purpose in all helps. I love the example of a friend of mine who was fired from a job about 11 years ago. Although it felt devastating to her at the time, she ultimately can look back and know that a better opportunity came after that. Furthermore, at her new job is where she met her future husband.

Here are some words by Rhonda Byrne which nicely sum up my thoughts:

Look for the gifts in everything, especially when you are facing what appears to be a negative situation. Everything that we attract causes us to grow, which means that ultimately everything is for our own good.... Adjusting to a new path and a new direction will require new qualities and strengths, and these qualities are always exactly what we need to acquire in order to accomplish the great things ahead in our life.

I personally have used challenges to work on myself. I know that ultimately it is from those challenges in the past that I grew in leaps and bounds. A participant in my stress reduction class Thursday night noted that, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." What are your thoughts?

Your assignment: Examine challenges as they arise and look for opportunities within them. Reframe the word "problem" to opportunity. Brainstorm and make a list of opportunities from the situation. Take action and go forth in faith knowing that all will be well.

For Inner Peace, Accept What Is

2011-09-07T21:07:00.000-04:00

ac⋅cept⋅ance // [ak-sep-tuhns]

-noun
The act of assenting or believing. (from dictionary.reference.com)

In his book A New Earth, Eckhart Tolle states that acceptance occurs when a person is at peace with something, particularly something that cannot be changed.

Resisting what "is" causes tension and anxiety. You may have heard that "what you resist persists." So why make things harder for yourself than need be? Many people create unnecessary tension, stress and frustration for themselves instead of staying in the present and accepting what is.

Rather than creating stories in our minds that create victim energy, think about how we can have a happier life given the situation -- whatever that might be. For example, I'm thinking of a couple of wheelchair bound folks who have awesome positive attitudes and keep their attention focused on gratitude. They are both very inspiring. How we choose to view each situation (and the world) makes a huge difference in our mental health and overall well-being.

Traffic is an example of something we can accept our daily lives. There are many people who complain daily about getting stuck in traffic. We can choose to stress ourselves out about it (or of course choose another route), or accept what is, and possibly even enjoy the time alone, be mindful, play our favorite music or listen to an audiobook. And how about the weather? What can we do about it? (Ok, I'm not talking about long-term global warming, but rather literally from day to day...) When it is raining, we can either work ourselves into a panic about the rain or choose to accept it, pray about it, etc.

When we complain about situations, we are placing our energies on what is wrong. Remember that what we focus on expands.

Your assignment: This week, become mindful and aware of acceptance. Do you notice unnecessary stress and frustration that can be prevented by accepting things that cannot be changed and surrendering? Are you making yourself miserable unnecessarily (and dragging along everyone else in the process)? Do what you can to help yourself. If you begin to feel frustrated or anxious, tell yourself to stop and be present. Take a deep breath and know that all will be well. Let's learn to accept some of the inevitable, unchangeable things in our life which we may not particularly enjoy!

Stress Reduction Class Starts in Atlanta on September 15!!

2011-08-26T16:58:00.000-04:00

Hi friends,

If you live in Atlanta, here's a new opportunity to learn some new stress reduction techniques! Join me for a 4-week class where you'll learn techniques that will greatly improve the quality of your life. We'll meet every Thursday evening for 4 weeks starting September 15. Convenient intown location near Inman Park, Poncey Highlands, Virginia Highlands, Old Fourth Ward and L5P.

For more information, go to:

http://conta.cc/q36dUd

Let me know if you have any questions!!

Peace & love,

Nancie

5 Tips for Coping with Stress

2011-08-24T17:26:00.006-04:00

Hi all! I trust all's well.

I generally provide recommendations on how to reduce and prevent unnecessary stress in my workshops and with my clients. Today's article focuses on what to do when you're in the middle of feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

The following are a few tips that can help you manage the "in the moment" stress:

1. BREATHE. There are several breathing techniques I use. One of my favorites is simple and quite effective. Inhale on a count of four, hold briefly, then exhale out through your mouth for a count of eight. Be sure to drop your shoulders. The goal here is to exhale for twice the amount of time that you inhale. (You can always do 3 and 6 instead of 4 and 8.) This helps get you centered and gets the oxygen flowing to the brain.

2. Turn your focus to gratitude. Research shows that it is impossible to feel grateful while feeling stressed at the same time. Smile and remember all there is to be thankful for.

3. Close your eyes and think of someone you love, a pleasant memory, or a place that you feel at ease. Focusing on pleasant feelings of love and relaxation helps decrease feelings of fear and anxiety. Imagine a baby smiling at you or picture yourself on the beach with a breeze and warm sun on your skin. This will actually help change brain activity!

4. Take a walk, even for 10 minutes. It amazes me to hear people how many people eat lunch at their desks. Taking a break will help clear your mind, renew your energy and ultimately help with productivity. Practice walking meditation, which helps clear your mind. Start with paying attention to your body. This also helps clear any thoughts you may be ruminating about.

5. Meditate. You can start with two minutes at a time. I like to think of it as pushing the reset button. You can always use a guided meditation online or even on your Smart Phone.

These are just some of the many techniques that are effective. Remember, there is so much we can do help ourselves!

Your assignment: Become mindful of stress and tense muscles throughout the day. If you choose only one of the techniques above, I'd suggest taking a few deep breaths when you begin to feel overwhelmed. Focusing on your breathing (and counting) will help turn your attention away from any racing thoughts. Give the other ideas a shot and let me know if you have any questions or would like more information and detail.

If not now, then when?

2011-08-24T16:10:00.008-04:00

This week, I have been inspired to write a newsletter about taking action sooner rather than later in order to create a life that feels authentic to you. I decided to title it, "If not now, then when?" and a Tracy Chapman song with that title started playing in my head. So, for this purpose I'm borrowing it. :) Anyway, I had the extra reassurance that I was in the flow when I met with a friend and colleague a few days ago at Emory for a coffee date to discuss "positive psychology" (um, did I tell you that I totally immerse myself in studying this stuff!?), and he told me that just last week the band "Incubus" came out with an album with that exact title...and that he wanted to hang those words in his office. Kinda cool.

"The world is full of dreamers, there aren't enough who will move ahead and begin to take concrete steps to actualize their vision." ~ W. Clement Stone

When I coach clients, the focus is on their happiness, success and overall well-being. Among many things, this includes working on mindset, overcoming limiting (or irrational) beliefs and squelching fear and self doubt.

A big part of coaching also involves helping people to create their dream lives...often sooner rather than later. Many people say (or think) that they want to do, be or have ______ (fill in the blank) "one day," but do not necessarily take steps or inspired action to get there. Excuses aside, what are you waiting for? Now is a good of a time as any.

Here are a just couple of examples to help demonstrate what I'm talking about. During a coaching session with me, a young woman who had worked in a corporate-type position told me that she would eventually like to have her own business doing something different that she was totally passionate about...maybe five years down the road. I curiously asked her, "Why five years?" She could not think of a good reason. It seemed that five was just a number she came up with out of the blue. Within a year, she secured a physical space for her (awesome and fun) business, which has since grown exponentially.

Last week, a client of mine who has a vision of owning three restaurants one day, had a huge breakthrough and actually set a date a year and a half from now to be in a physical space for the first restaurant which he's dreamed about for years. His energy and passion has been absolutely amazing and he is a great example of someone who has taken inspired action over the last couple of months. It is so awesome to see clients take risks, face fears, develop the necessary mindset and follow their hearts.

So my question to you is this, "if not now, then when?"

You don't have to wait for the "how's." Once you get clear on what you want and make a decision, the universe will figure out how.

Your assignment this week is short and often powerful: Really think about what you want in life. What are you doing to get closer to that vision?

"The world is full of dreamers, there aren't enough who will move ahead and begin to take concrete steps to actualize their vision." ~ W. Clement Stone

Stuck? Tips to Stay Motivated (Part 2)

2011-08-02T21:21:00.001-04:00

Hi Friends,

This week's post is a continuation from the last post which provided tips for staying motivated. If you missed it, you can read it here. When I sat down last week, I figured I'd keep it short and sweet and include four tips in the first article and four tips in the next. The truth is that there are some that are too important to exclude! So I've included six more tips for getting and staying motivated. As always, let me know if you have any thoughts, comments or questions.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Peace & love,
Nancie
_______________________________

My "Part 1" article about staying motivated included tips such as remembering your "why," telling people about your goal, setting an action plan, and keeping the momentum going from the outcomes you begin to see as a result of taking consistent action.

The following are six more tips to stay motivated (starting with # 5 here as a continuation of 1-4):

5. Make your goals (and you) a priority! Carve out time in your schedule to focus on you - and stick to it.

6. Believe in yourself. If you start out thinking your goal is not doable, you will create a difficult journey for yourself.

7. If you don't reach a goal, beating yourself up over it will not serve you. Think about what you could do differently next time, and "dust yourself off and try again." (Thanks, Aaliyah.) Giving up may in the long run cause you to feel worse. Use kindness, love and compassion!

8. Keep visual reminders around for inspiration! Write your intention down on paper. Post a picture of your desired outcome (i.e., your vision) so you can visually see it daily.

9. Surround yourself with positive people as much as possible. Also, hanging out with those people who have similar qualities to what you'd like to be, do or have is very beneficial! Become aware of the energy levels around you.

10. Keep your eye on the prize. I know, this is totally cheesy, but maybe I am a cheese ball sometimes. It's true though - keeping the end in mind is incredibly helpful and important!!

Again, reward yourself and celebrate the victories along the way.

Your assignment: If you feel yourself losing motivation, become aware of what you believe may be holding you back. Without blaming others, remember that you have choices to make in your everyday life. Getting to the cause of the loss of motivation is sometimes helpful in order to move forward with solutions. Write down some steps that you believe will help you overcome the challenges. Remember, I'm here to help you so feel free to contact me to see how I can help you.

4 Ways to Stay Motivated (Part 1)

2011-07-15T13:45:00.033-04:00

Hi everyone!

Well, as I’m in the 3rd year of writing e-newsletters, I decided it was definitely time to have a blog! This first post is about motivation as it seems that all New Year’s “resolutions” are long gone (the resolutions should really be goals with action plans but that’s another story!) Plus, I am often asked how one can stay motivated when aiming to achieve personal and professional goals.

The following are some ways that can help you stay on track:

1. Keep the "why" in mind. Why did you want to set and achieve this goal in the first place? What was your original vision? What is the deeper meaning?

2. Tell someone (or even better - multiple people!) about your goal. Accountability is often crucial. Announcing to several people that you are going to do x, y and z by a certain period of time will likely give you a kick in the pants! Ask them to not accept excuses from you.

3. Create a specific action plan to achieve those goals and work on your action plan on a regular basis to keep the momentum going. Working towards your goal every day is ideal, even if it's a little bit at a time.

4. Once you take action, you'll start seeing results. Results will help keep your spirits up as you will begin to really see that your goal is achievable.

Also remember to reward yourself for the smaller victories along the way!
If you feel yourself getting off track or stuck, remember to visualize your original dream and consider the tips listed above. Remember to believe that anything is possible. If you would like that extra nudge and accountability to keep you going, give me a call. Helping people move forward is what I do!