|Change|
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
James Baldwin

Change begins with courage. The courage to be dissatisfied enough with the current state that you’re willing to step up, step out, and make a different reality. While life’s challenges may seem impossible, facing them head-on is the first step toward transformation. By acknowledging our fears and actively confronting the difficulties, we not only open the door to new possibilities but also take control of our own narrative. Allow yourself to feel the emotion… the sadness, the joy, the regret, the pride, the guilt.. feel it for a moment (don’t live there), but allow that emotion to move you forward. Each small step taken with bravery builds momentum, leading to growth and progress. Embrace the journey, knowing that every challenge you face is an opportunity to shape a better future.

Be Encouraged.

|Encourage One Another|
Let’s hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds.
|The Apostle Paul|

Hold on to hope with unwavering faith, knowing that promises will be fulfilled. It will all be good in the end – if it’s not good… it’s not the end. Embrace the journey with confidence and trust. Let’s uplift one another, spreading love and kindness through our actions. Encourage those around you, and together, we can create a supportive and compassionate community. Believe in the power of faith, hope, and love. Embrace unity and the strength that comes from standing firm and inspiring each other. Our combined efforts in love and good deeds will bring light and joy to the world, fostering a culture of kindness and support.

Be Encouraged.

|Forgiving|
Courageous people do not fear forgiving, for the sake of peace.
Nelson Mandela|

True strength lies in the ability to forgive. Embrace the courage to let go of grudges and make peace a priority. Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but evidence of your resilience and compassion. It does not excuse actions but creates the space to free you from the burden and the time to heal. By choosing to forgive, you free yourself from the chains of resentment and open the door to healing and harmony. Stand tall in your courage, and let forgiveness pave the way to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

Be Encouraged.

|The Odds|
Never let the odds keep you from doing what you know in your heart you were meant to do.
|H. Jackson Brown, Jr.|

Pursue your dreams, no matter the challenges. The odds may seem daunting, but your passion and determination can help you overcome the obstacles. Believe in your purpose and let it drive you forward. Every great achievement starts with a bold step against the tide. Stay focused. Stay committed. Have a plan and work the plan – even if the plan needs to be adjusted and reevaluated. Remember that your dreams are worth the effort. Even if you feel like …the odds are not in your favor…, embrace the journey and let your inner drive lead you to the success you’re meant to achieve.

Be Encouraged.

|Your Consent|
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. Never give it.
Eleanor Roosevelt

You hold the power over your self-worth. Refuse to let anyone’s words or actions diminish your confidence. Stand tall, knowing that your value is not dictated by others. Embrace your strengths, celebrate your achievements, and believe in yourself. The world can only affect your self-esteem if you allow it. You have agency. Choose to rise above negativity and shine brightly. Empower yourself with self-love and confidence, and never surrender your right to feel worthy and strong. Surround yourself with those who will fill you up, build you up and strengthen you so when the words that are intended to tear you down, you have the reserve and the resolve to speak truth to the lies.

Be Encouraged.

|Sharpen The Axe|
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
|Abraham Lincoln|

Preparation is the key to success. Invest time in honing your skills and gathering resources. But remember, rest is also one of the resources that is just as crucial. By balancing effort with adequate rest, you sharpen not only your tools but also your mind and body. This balance enhances your efficiency and effectiveness. Embrace the power of preparation and rest, trusting that this combination will lead to extraordinary results.

It’s not just doing more, practicing more, giving more effort or preparation… It’s also not just rest more, sleep more, and take it easy more… there is something magical that can occur when both variables are given the required time and attention. You can be well-rehearsed but exhausted, which likely will not yield a good result. You can be totally rested and unprepared, and it’s likely you’ll not get the desired result. The effort you put into getting ready, including taking care of yourself, makes all the difference when it’s time to act.

Now, you might be thinking, ‘But what if I don’t have enough time for both preparation and rest?’ It’s a valid concern, and that’s why it’s important to prioritize and manage your time effectively. Remember, it’s about quality, not just quantity.

Be Encouraged.

|Your Philosophy|
Don’t explain your philosophy. Embody it.
Epictetus

Actions speak louder than words. Let your daily life reflect your deepest values and beliefs. Live with integrity, showing the world what you stand for through your deeds. True inspiration doesn’t come from grand speeches but from genuine, consistent actions. While your words may be misinterpreted or misrepresented, your actions and behaviors can better communicate what you see as important. Be the living example of your ideals, and let others see your philosophy in everything you do. When you embody your principles, you uplift yourself and inspire those around you to strive for their own greatness.

Be Encouraged.

|Tomorrows|
Always remember that many tomorrows will be determined by how well you lead today. 
Tony Evans

A business coach once told me, “The accumulation of little things is often more impactful than the one ‘Big Thing.” Every step you take today shapes the landscape of your future. Your actions, decisions, and leadership carve the path for the days ahead. Embrace the present with determination and purpose, knowing that your efforts now will blossom into success and fulfillment. Stay focused, stay motivated, and lead with confidence. Remember, the future you dream of is not a distant possibility but a reality that is being built by the choices you make today.

Be Encouraged.

|Kind Words|
Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.
|King Solomon|

Feeling weighed down by worries? You’re not alone. The Mayo Clinic reports that, while stress, insomnia, anxiety, and depression have lowered some since 2020-2021, they are still higher than before 2020.  We all have those days. But remember, a little kindness can make a big difference. When considering the value of an encouraging word, often we think about how great that would be to hear and receive from someone – and that’s fair.

However, there is also value in being the one to give an encouraging word even when (maybe even especially when) we’re down or desiring encouragement. That’s part of the motivation and “why” for this blog. A simple compliment or a heartfelt “thank you” can lift someone’s spirits, including your own. When you spread positivity, it lightens the load for everyone.

So, reach out, share a smile, and say something kind. You never know how much it might mean to someone—and to you. Small acts of kindness can turn a heavy heart into a hopeful one. Keep spreading cheer!

Be Encouraged (and encourage someone else.)

|A New Dream|
You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.
|C.S. Lewis|

No matter your age, there’s always room for new dreams and goals. Life’s not about what you’ve done; it’s about what you’re still excited to do. Passion and purpose aren’t reserved for the young. Whether learning a new skill, starting a new hobby, or embarking on a new adventure, your potential is limitless. Embrace the possibilities ahead. Every day is a fresh start, a chance to chase new dreams and set new goals. Believe in yourself and keep moving forward. Your best days are not behind you but in front of you!

Be Encouraged.