|Flattery|
Flattery is like perfume – Sniff it, don’t swallow it.
|Alistair Begg|

Compliments feel great, don’t they? They tap on that part of our brain that always feels good. But here’s the thing: enjoy compliments without letting them go to your head. Think of praise like a whiff of your favorite perfume—it’s lovely. It’s meant to be smelled, not tasted. We’ve all stood next to the person who, apparently, bathed in their favorite cologne or perfume, thinking, “If a little is good, more must be better’. Staying humble and grounded keeps you focused and driven. So, when someone compliments you, smile, say thank you, and appreciate it, but remember to stay true to yourself and your goals. Your worth isn’t tied to others’ opinions. Keep pushing forward with confidence and humility. That’s the real secret to lasting success!

Be Encouraged.

|Commitments|
Complications don’t negate commitments.
|Steve Arterburn|

Life can be challenging. We all hit bumps in the road. That doesn’t mean we should allow the bumps to compromise our integrity. Whether it’s a passion project, a relationship, a personal goal, or just giving your word, sticking to it through thick and thin shows real strength. Your word is an extension of and an example of your character. Look at it from the perspective that – you’ve made a decision and “…I will keep my word. I will find solutions…improvements… ask for help… but I will keep my word…” See that decision through. This is where trust is built. It’s easy to stay committed when things are smooth sailing. The real test is when stuff gets complicated.  Growing up, my daughters often heard, “The right thing is the right thing, even when it’s hard.” Frequently, this was applied to keeping a commitment. I wanted them to be known for their character – their reputation. Your character, your reputation is not just a trivial thing or an afterthought, it’s one of your most valuable assets. Guard it. Protect it. Preserve it. It’s what makes the journey truly worth it!

Be Encouraged.

|One Bad Day|
If you’re afraid of one bad day, you’re not going to have 99 good ones.
| Patrick Lencioni|

Life’s too short to dwell on what might go wrong. Worrying about one bad day can steal the joy from countless good ones. Instead, look ahead with hope and optimism. Each day is a new chance for happiness and success. Focus on the positives, the little victories, and the moments of joy. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and learn. By keeping your eyes on the good things to come, you’ll fill your life with positivity and make every day count. The invitation for love and mercy is extended each morning. Let go of fear and hurt, and look forward to the next great moment.

Be Encouraged.

|Heaven or Hell|
You can go to hell without moving an inch, just focus on what you lack. You can taste heaven without leaving earth, just rejoice in what you have.
|James Clear|

Discontentment can weigh you down, making life feel like a constant struggle. At times, the temptation of “lack,” “enough,” or “more” can be overpowering. But there’s a powerful antidote: gratitude. Life transforms when you focus on what you have rather than what you lack. Simple moments become sources of joy, and you start to see beauty everywhere. Appreciate the small things—morning coffee, a warm meal, a kind word, the laughter of friends. Gratitude lightens your heart and uplifts your spirit. It turns ordinary days into extraordinary blessings. Let go of what’s missing and embrace the abundance around you. Be intentional, looking for the good – even in the smallest of things – in each situation. In gratitude, you’ll find true happiness and peace.

Be Encouraged.

|Mistakes|
Mistakes are always forgivable if one has the courage to admit them.
|Bruce Lee|

We all make mistakes—it’s just part of life. Frequently, we’ll do all we can to avoid the mistake – or at least the consequences associated with the mistake.  When we don’t own the mistake, learn from it, and seek forgiveness, we can hold on to the baggage that comes from shame, guilt, or regret that is so often associated with our mistakes. What truly matters is having the courage to admit when we’re wrong. It’s not always easy, but owning up to our errors shows strength and character. When we acknowledge our mistakes, we open the door to growth and understanding. We create the opportunity to be freed from shame, guilt, and regret. So, don’t be afraid to say, “I messed up.” No excuses. No justifications. Just own it and, if you’re able, make it right. Remember, forgiveness starts with honesty, and with every mistake, there’s an opportunity to learn and improve. Keep pushing forward, and remember, courage and accountability lead to a brighter future and a better you.

Be Encouraged.

|The Test|

The greatest test of courage on earth is to bear defeat without losing heart.
| Robert Green Ingersoll|

We’ve all faced defeat and felt like throwing in the towel at one time or another. Life can knock us down, leaving us feeling battered and bruised. But here’s the secret: true courage isn’t about avoiding falls. It’s about finding the strength to rise again. It’s okay to stumble, to feel defeated. These moments are part of the journey—the stepping stones toward growth. But don’t stay there. Each setback is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and evolve. When life throws curveballs, hold onto hope like your life depends on it—because it does. Every fall is a chance to rise stronger, wiser, and more resilient. You’re rewriting your story with every rise. You’re not defeated -you’re in the process of becoming unbreakable. Life’s challenges are your training ground. Conquer them and watch yourself soar.

Be Encouraged.

|The Problem|

The problem with most…is that we tend to remember the things we should forget and forget the things we should remember.
|Unknown|

Ever find yourself dwelling on the past, replaying moments you wish you could forget? Happens to the best of us. Dwelling on the negative holds you back. Instead, focus on the good stuff. Remember the lessons learned, the victories won. Ask yourself – is this thought true? Is it right? What about friendly or honoring? Is it worthwhile? Train your brain to let go of what no longer serves you. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. When you make the conscious decision to shift your mindset, you open doors to positivity and growth. Remember what matters, forget what doesn’t, and keep moving forward.

Be Encouraged.

|The Hard Part|

The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.
|General Norman Schwarzkopf|

Ever felt torn between what you know is right and what’s easier? You’re not alone. We all know – sometimes, doing the right thing is hard. It requires courage, strength, and sometimes going against the crowd. But here’s the kicker: it’s worth it. When you choose integrity over convenience, you build character and earn respect—both from others and from yourself. So, next time you’re faced with a tough decision – lean in, don’t pull back. Remember, you have the power and the agency to do what’s right. Embrace the challenge. In the end, doing the right thing can be the most powerful that sets you apart and that… that makes all the difference.

Be Encouraged.

|Heaven|

There is a place called ‘heaven’ where the good here unfinished is completed; and where the stories unwritten, and the hopes unfulfilled, are continued. We may laugh together yet.
| J.R.R. Tolkien|

I’ve heard it said, “If it’s not good – it’s not the end.” Today’s trials, difficulties, frustrations, and disappointments aren’t the end, and they are not what define you. Keep pushing forward, knowing that even in uncertainty, there’s a place where all the good continues. Look for the good – it’s there to be found. Our stories aren’t over yet. There’s a whole world of unwritten chapters waiting to unfold. James Clear said, “You can go to hell without moving an inch, just focus on what you lack. You can taste heaven without leaving earth, just rejoice in what you have.” 

Be Encouraged.

|Be Yourself|

To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else, means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting.
|E.E. Cummings|

Being yourself in a world that is constantly trying to shape you into something else is tough. It’s a daily battle to stay true to who you are, but that’s where the magic happens. Embrace your uniqueness, stand firm in your values, and let your true self shine. Remember, it’s worth the fight – You’re worth the fight. Don’t let the world dull your spark. Keep pushing, keep being you, and never stop fighting for your authentic self. You’re amazing, just the way you are.

Be Encouraged.