|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.

|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.