tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20464235655336359382024-03-16T11:53:12.252-07:00Motivate Me!Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-64195822888358403002017-02-20T01:05:00.000-08:002017-02-26T07:57:53.565-08:00Stop Comparing Yourself to Others #SelfLove <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3iEKxV3yIT3wDqfvqbJpJy4Uh-Bt_gaGNj5ylNueNVBCt1U0lK2eaTnOLcPeUJAD_1rtynfO6fojEq_8PEnGm0TLMynWtfhd9Vp7TYyxuPjh6XLpfV33PwiXnVXY8nuBG4LyO4OVabo/s1600/Stop+Comparing+Yourself+to+Others.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3iEKxV3yIT3wDqfvqbJpJy4Uh-Bt_gaGNj5ylNueNVBCt1U0lK2eaTnOLcPeUJAD_1rtynfO6fojEq_8PEnGm0TLMynWtfhd9Vp7TYyxuPjh6XLpfV33PwiXnVXY8nuBG4LyO4OVabo/s400/Stop+Comparing+Yourself+to+Others.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">At
the start of the <span style="margin: 0px;">year,</span> I was a woman on a
mission. 2017 was going to be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the</i>
year I got my mojo back, the year I would feel normal again, and the year I
would dedicate to the <span style="margin: 0px;">personal</span> development
of my mind, body, and soul.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
already made positive progress towards nurturing my mental and physical health.
However, during my mindfully-infused sessions where I take the <span style="margin: 0px;">time</span> to learn and grow, I’ve noticed an
uncomfortable trend – comparison. We all do it, but it’s in varying degrees of
intensity. I’ve often wished that I could live in a warm country like my hugely
successful cousin, Becky. Or that I drove a super sexy Land Rover Evoque like my
<span style="margin: 0px;">bestie</span>, Liz. These are the kind of
comparisons that are merely fleeting thoughts rather than crippling destruction
for our self-esteem. I love these <span style="margin: 0px;">thoughts</span>
because they <span style="margin: 0px;">shape</span> my ambitions. I want
to earn enough to buy <span style="margin: 0px;">a lovely</span> car, and I
want to travel to interesting places. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">In
January I <span style="margin: 0px;">bought</span> a </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">couple of life
planners to help me plot out my world domination. As a stationery <span style="margin: 0px;">geek,</span> this was no <span style="margin: 0px;">hardship,</span> and I quickly filled each one with the relevant
information. On a side note, I’ve yet to find a life planner that contains
everything I want/need to satisfy my <span style="margin: 0px;">organisational</span>
needs. However, the <span style="margin: 0px;">planners</span> helped because
I was writing everything down and <span style="margin: 0px;">could,
therefore,</span> see at a glance what I was hoping to achieve, the date I
wanted to complete the goal, and all the other SMART* necessities that go hand
in hand with reclaiming your mojo.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">At
the same time, I joined <span style="margin: 0px;">some</span> Facebook
groups dedicated to boosting your inspiration, motivating you to achieve your
goals, and empowering you to succeed. All the things that I value in my life
and strive to pass on to others. The fit was <span style="margin: 0px;">perfect,</span>
and I became as active as time allowed <span style="margin: 0px;">in</span>
these groups.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Roll
the clock forward a couple of <span style="margin: 0px;">weeks,</span> and
I started to feel twitchy about some of the groups I joined. Don’t get me <span style="margin: 0px;">wrong; there</span> is absolutely nothing wrong with
blowing your own trumpet. I’ve posted about my <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span>
success on more than one occasion. If we don’t share our achievements,
especially if you run an online business, then nobody will know you exist. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I, therefore,</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> think that it’s not the groups that have changed,
it’s me. My inner <span style="margin: 0px;">monolog</span> of destruction
is reading these ‘look at what I’ve launched/sold/done’ as a way to prove I’m
not ‘there’ yet, wherever <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">there</i> may
be! Perhaps <span style="margin: 0px;">I'm</span> overly sensitive, or in
need of re-reading my CBT notes but the feel of these groups has shifted for
me.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Instead
of feeling motivated, I feel drained. Instead of being inspired to achieve, I
feel useless and defeated. I know that my depression has something to do with
this, the cognitive settings in my brain are overloading with the ‘I’m not good
enough’ chatter. So what can I do? </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
backed away from the groups. Some of them I left so the notifications no longer
appear in my feed, and others I stopped interacting <span style="margin: 0px;">with,</span> so the algorithms do their job and bury the posts until I
might need them again. <span style="margin: 0px;">I feel better already.</span>
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
surprised myself with the intensity of my comparisons. I was so sure that being
a part of those communities would be the best thing for my personal development
and yet it backfired, leaving me feeling empty.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Comparing
ourselves to others is dangerous. We are unique in every <span style="margin: 0px;">way,</span> and we should embrace this fact. I worry
about my daughter who, at fourteen, can be influenced by the celebrities she
loves, and the body image that is portrayed on the cover of every magazine
(that rant is for another post!).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
incredibly active in blogging and book circles <span style="margin: 0px;">online,</span>
and one <span style="margin: 0px;">group, in particular,</span> has boosted
my confidence and helped me to shake off those ‘not good enough’ thoughts. It’s
<span style="margin: 0px;">these kind</span> of communities that matter. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Surrounding
ourselves (online or in real life) with people who support us is important.
Learning to <span style="margin: 0px;">recognise</span> negative thoughts
and releasing them is another factor in boosting our self-love. Understanding
how much damage comparing ourselves to others can <span style="margin: 0px;">be</span> the first step in correcting these <span style="margin: 0px;">thoughts</span>. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
another lesson I’ve learned on my current journey. I’m still healing, still
recovering, and obviously I’m still vulnerable. That’s okay. <span style="margin: 0px;">Realising</span> that fact has helped me to act
accordingly. There may be a time in the future when I re-join these empowering
groups and throw myself into the mix, but for now, I’m going to concentrate my
efforts on the people/groups/activities that nurture my mind, body, and soul.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Over
to you: I’ve chosen to talk about Facebook groups in this post, but perhaps you
find yourself comparing your life to just one <span style="margin: 0px;">person</span>
or a set of friends. What could you do to correct this?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Here
are a few ideas I’ve come up with to help:</span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Be kinder to yourself – notice the negative talk and release these thoughts.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Write it down – I’ve mentioned my love of journaling <span style="margin: 0px;">before,</span> but I can’t stress enough the benefits of writing down what you are grateful for, or using a happiness jar (read my post about that <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/how-to-ensure-you-have-great-year-by.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>).</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Focus on what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> have – cherish your family/home/job and don’t focus your attention on what others have.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Commit to self-love – take care of your physical, emotional, spiritual needs every day. Commit to nurturing yourself to be the best version of you.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’d love to hear
your thoughts on this topic. Do you find yourself comparing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="margin: 0px;">you</span></i>
to friends? Can you <span style="margin: 0px;">recognise</span> the
negative talk and correct it? What tips can you share that might help someone
to break the comparison trap? Please feel free to share in the comments box
below.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">*SMART
goals are:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Specific</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Measurable</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Attainable</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Realistic</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Time
Based</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<em><b><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">Thanks for
visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me
here: Twitter </span></b></em><span lang="EN" style="margin: 0px;"><a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><em><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">@ShelleyWilson72</span></b></em></a><strong><i><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">,
</span></i></strong><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><em><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">Instagram</span></b></em></a><strong><i><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"> or check
out my Facebook pages </span></i></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson"><em><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</span></b></em></a><strong><i><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">
and </span></i></strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><em><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</span></b></em></a><strong><i><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">.
You can also find me on </span></i></strong><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><em><b><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;">Pinterest</span></b></em></a></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-54743833386034459442017-02-13T00:00:00.000-08:002017-02-20T01:05:48.345-08:00Ditch the Guilt #SelfLove #Happiness<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHp_0QYNns2cixHiR5ZJj7mBQd9FpjjaC6CySgdHlOGWLXJBOPVRcTobss2jVa_MVBFG8wRkvRpOYqWazlbToltcqvMZZWvCpaelU4A9f8EZ2NcRc9GsMEJ3tlvrPz9o3Z5Wjow2o8Skc/s1600/Ditch+the+Guilt.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHp_0QYNns2cixHiR5ZJj7mBQd9FpjjaC6CySgdHlOGWLXJBOPVRcTobss2jVa_MVBFG8wRkvRpOYqWazlbToltcqvMZZWvCpaelU4A9f8EZ2NcRc9GsMEJ3tlvrPz9o3Z5Wjow2o8Skc/s400/Ditch+the+Guilt.png" title="Ditch the Guilt" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">February
is the month of love, but here on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Motivate
Me!</i> <span style="margin: 0px;">we</span>’re looking at <span style="margin: 0px;">loving</span> ourselves rather than joining the masses
who are celebrating with their one and only. If you do have a true love close
to <span style="margin: 0px;">hand,</span> then feel free to engage in the
odd snuggle, a romantic meal, or a <span style="margin: 0px;">deep</span>
and meaningful discussion about your relationship. Communication, interaction,
and respect are key elements to any successful partnership.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If,
however, you want to join me on a journey of self-discovery and take a deeper
look at how we can love ourselves first, then stick with me.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Last
week I shared my 5 Top Tips for Working on Self-Love, you can read that post
<a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/5-top-tips-for-working-on-self-love.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. This week I wanted to discuss an area that might impact on our personal development,
and hold up our <span style="margin: 0px;">well-laid</span> plans of loving
ourselves unconditionally.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">That
issue is GUILT. Not in <span style="margin: 0px;">an ‘oh</span> my god, I
slept with my husband’s brother!’ way, although if you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">did</i> do <span style="margin: 0px;">that,</span> then you might
want to skip off and sort that issue out! </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
guilt I’m talking about today includes all the mistakes or mundane nonsense we
beat ourselves <span style="margin: 0px;">up about</span>. It could be that
we weren’t there when someone needed us, or you’ve shouted at the kids over
something trivial. <span style="margin: 0px;">For me, I feel guilty about
my overwhelming ironing pile (I know, it sounds ridiculous doesn’t it!). In
truth it makes me feel like I’m neglecting my family, failing as a mother and
adds to my ever present ‘I’m not good enough’ limiting belief, I mean,
seriously, who beats themselves up because of the ironing?</span> </span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Surprisingly,
it’s increasingly common for us to feel guilty about a host of mundane chores
that don’t get done, or not being available 24-7 for our friends and family.
However, in today’s society, we, as women, tend to be running a <span style="margin: 0px;">full-time</span> job, a home, and dealing with family
and friends, as well as coping with a host of other tasks. No wonder we feel so
guilty if we can’t manage it all. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
only thing this guilt does is crush our self-esteem and, in turn, we begin to
loathe the fact that we can’t ‘do it all’. We fall out of love with ourselves
because we’re not operating at <span style="margin: 0px;">one-hundred-per-cent</span>.
It drains our <span style="margin: 0px;">energy,</span> and we end up being
moody which, of course, we feel <span style="margin: 0px;">guilty about</span>.
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
a single <span style="margin: 0px;">mum,</span> I sometimes snap at my kids
when <span style="margin: 0px;">really</span> it’s because I’m <span style="margin: 0px;">worried</span> about something else and I don’t have
another adult to <span style="margin: 0px;">talk to</span>. I feel guilty
about <span style="margin: 0px;">snapping,</span> and if I don’t <span style="margin: 0px;">apologise,</span> then it escalates in my mind. By
recognising what I’ve done, and saying I’m sorry, I neutralise the guilt. Why, because
it’s <span style="margin: 0px;">normal</span> guilt; the <span style="margin: 0px;">usual</span> kind that doesn’t do that much harm if
dealt with appropriately.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">On
the flip <span style="margin: 0px;">side,</span> there is a form of <span style="margin: 0px;">guilt</span> that is far from <span style="margin: 0px;">normal; it</span>’s the unhealthy guilt that eats away at us. The voice in
your head that always ridicules you, and wants you to believe that you are a waste
of time. It’s this guilt that we need to stop feeding. Knowing the difference
between <span style="margin: 0px;">normal</span> guilt where we can resolve
the issue and put it right, and the unhealthy toxic guilt will help you to deal
with it.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Don’t
allow your inner critic to fuel the negativity of unhealthy guilt. Believe that
you are doing everything you can in the best way you know how. I find that
writing in my journal every night helps me to differentiate between the two
forms of guilt. Not going to the gym isn’t the kind of <span style="margin: 0px;">guilt</span> that will derail my personal development, but telling myself that
I’m a fat, useless, lazy creature who is unlovable because I didn’t bother
going to the gym is a warning sign that I’ve let the unhealthy guilt take over
my thoughts. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It
can be one of the hardest things to do, learning to recognise what you are
doing and disregarding it. But, learning how to deal with guilt can <span style="margin: 0px;">clear</span> the path for greater respect for
yourself. Turning these thoughts around will silence the inner monologue of <span style="margin: 0px;">negativity,</span> and you can concentrate your
efforts on filling your head with positive affirmations, and self-belief.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">‘I
am enough.’</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">‘I’m
doing okay.’</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">‘Everything
I do is done with the best intentions.’</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">‘What
I do is done to the best of my abilities.’</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Grab
yourself a journal if you haven’t already got one, and begin recording your
thoughts and actions. Start noticing what you’re telling yourself. Observe your
<span style="margin: 0px;">thoughts</span> and start challenging your
negativity and before long you’ll be living a life full of self-love.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">What do you feel
<span style="margin: 0px;">guilty about</span>? How do you cope with these
feelings?</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span lang="EN" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i><b>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </b></i></span><em><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><b> Twitter </b></span></em></span><em><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span style="margin: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">@</span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">ShelleyWilson72</span></b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Instagram</span></b></a><b> or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</span></b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</span></b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Pinterest</span></b></a></span></em></span></span></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-72133134769188503522017-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:002017-04-26T08:39:40.273-07:005 Top Tips for Working on Self-Love #wellbeing #happiness<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAtCHZscYAmSr4ff-l_AFLH1EV4vwYtvIDFIUspRf6pHMfvxqmsgqzZl7VPj3VdDlvchW3tI55kCjLCl9QocsZNVCjo54-h3kuuD2eoXF373YBlK9Wn4_QpTMSP9odl3luUhV1-NfHiI/s1600/5+Top+Tips+for+Working+on+self-love.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXAtCHZscYAmSr4ff-l_AFLH1EV4vwYtvIDFIUspRf6pHMfvxqmsgqzZl7VPj3VdDlvchW3tI55kCjLCl9QocsZNVCjo54-h3kuuD2eoXF373YBlK9Wn4_QpTMSP9odl3luUhV1-NfHiI/s400/5+Top+Tips+for+Working+on+self-love.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">February
is upon <span style="margin: 0px;">us,</span> and everywhere you turn there
are hearts, overpriced chocolates, and an explosion of cuddly toys. It can only
mean one thing – Valentine’s Day is imminent.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Fluffy
teddies and flowers aside, the theme of ‘love’ that invades all of our senses
at this time of year doesn’t necessarily have to be directed at a partner,
lover, or spouse. It’s perfectly okay to indulge in a spot of self-love. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
recently attended a networking group for women where we had the opportunity <span style="margin: 0px;">to briefly talk about ourselves and our businesses</span>.
It was interesting to observe each lady proudly talking about their family but
then clamming up when the conversation turned to themselves. We were all
successful business <span style="margin: 0px;">women,</span> but the
thought of ‘bigging’ ourselves up, and selling ourselves was visibly <span style="margin: 0px;">tough</span>.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
observed this and then fell into the same trap when it was my time to talk. I
introduced myself and launched comfortably into ‘my name’s <span style="margin: 0px;">Shelley,</span> and I’m a single <span style="margin: 0px;">mum</span> to three lovely <span style="margin: 0px;">teenagers,'</span> cue the oohs and aahs of my fellow networkers as we
laugh/share/commiserate over the teen years and motherhood in general. Then
when the group leader asked me about my <span style="margin: 0px;">work,</span>
I automatically dropped my head, avoided eye contact and mumbled something about
being an author and blogger and selling a ton of books, but <span style="margin: 0px;">eer</span>, well, umm, I’m not sure who buys them
*nervous giggle*. OMG!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">How
is it possible that I can sit in front of a computer and share with the world
how much I adore writing, how my books <span style="margin: 0px;">are aimed</span>
at women who want to make the best of themselves, as well as write articles
about feeling empowered. Then, when <span style="margin: 0px;">I’m given</span>
the opportunity to confirm this face-to-face I lose all confidence, and my
self-esteem takes a tumble. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Has
this happened to you? If so, then I’m happy to say that you’re not alone. We
all do it! </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">On
the drive home, I finally understood that <span style="margin: 0px;">to</span>
have the confidence to sell <span style="margin: 0px;">myself, I</span>
needed to believe that I’m worthy of my success. It’s not a fluke that I’ve
sold over 10,000 copies of my first non-fiction book. It’s not a one-off that
15,000 people visit my blog in the space of one month. These statistics came
about through hard work, dedication, and a passion for what I do. I just need
to believe that!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One
of the goals I’ve set myself for 2017 is to learn to love myself more. It might
sound like a lame goal, but <span style="margin: 0px;">judging from my reaction
at the networking group</span>, it’s a goal I need to be <span style="margin: 0px;">working on</span>. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Self-love.
What is it? The definition is ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">regard for
one’s <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> well-being and happiness</i>.’
Wow, can you see how we as women fail to love <span style="margin: 0px;">ourselves?</span>
We are always making sure that our husband/wife, children, and friends are
happy, healthy, and cared for but then we never leave enough time to ensure we
give ourselves the same amount of care and attention. <span style="margin: 0px;">This is</span> why it was so easy for the women <span style="margin: 0px;">in</span> the group to share their pride about family but not express the
same confidence <span style="margin: 0px;">in</span> themselves – we haven’t
learned how to self-love.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">How
on earth do you learn such a skill, I hear you ask, well, allow me to share my
top five tips:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Community
Matters</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Although
we were all guilty of a lack of personal confidence, the ladies at my
networking group were more than capable of encouraging each other and offering guidance
and support. Finding a community such as this will help you build, or re-build,
those feelings of self-esteem and conviction.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Stop Negative
Talk</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When
we put ourselves <span style="margin: 0px;">down,</span> we are only reinforcing
that lack of self-esteem. Telling ourselves (or even just thinking) that we are
boring/unattractive/fat/stupid feeds our mind to believe this even more. STOP!
Take notice of the language you use when referring to yourself, turn everything
into a positive affirmation. ‘I am <span style="margin: 0px;">successful,'</span>
or ‘I am happy and healthy in my <span style="margin: 0px;">skin.'</span>
The more you talk about yourself in a positive way, the faster you’ll believe
it to be true.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">De-Clutter</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Yep,
I’m sharing my love of de-cluttering yet again, but the benefits of clearing
out your cupboard space, <span style="margin: 0px;">Facebook</span> friends
<span style="margin: 0px;">list</span> or garden shed are monumental. It also leave you with a
clearer mind.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">No More
Comparisons</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
could dedicate an entire blog post to this (which I might still <span style="margin: 0px;">do),</span> but the <span style="margin: 0px;">fast-paced</span>
life of social media means that we are always in a position to compare our
life/career/family to that of the online communities we are a <span style="margin: 0px;">part of</span>. Be honest, who has followed someone on
Facebook and wished for just a second that your life looked like theirs? Stop
comparing yourself to others. You are a unique <span style="margin: 0px;">individual</span>
and need to start embracing the positivity in your life. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Let Go</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
blogged about releasing negative energy through Acupuncture a few weeks <span style="margin: 0px;">ago, you</span> can read that post <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/releasing-negative-emotions.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Letting go of
past hurts is hugely important when building up our self-love. We can’t move
forward when clinging onto pain, heartache, anger, or frustration about the
past. Find a therapy that works for you and let go of the past. Acupuncture is
a great <span style="margin: 0px;">therapy</span> to try, as is EFT
(Emotional Freedom Technique). Coaching, Reiki, and journaling are also <span style="margin: 0px;">powerful</span> <span style="margin: 0px;">therapies</span>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">What does
self-love mean to you? Do you take the <span style="margin: 0px;">time</span>
to nurture your <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> needs? If so, what do
you do? I’d love to hear your thoughts so please add a comment below.</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span lang="EN" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i><b>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </b></i></span><em><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><b> Twitter </b></span></em></span><em><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span style="margin: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">@</span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">ShelleyWilson72</span></b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Instagram</span></b></a><b> or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</span></b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</span></b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Pinterest</span></b></a></span></em></span></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-52328331979877625992017-01-29T23:00:00.000-08:002017-01-29T23:00:42.112-08:00January in Review #Blogging #Goals<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_MsyAMP72WLJoVlf3HwMw4h2clvhXqhyphenhyphenHbltxgav53CaqUaFsJCCOcQfeVshWtsRAP9uaPw4V-ugwc9ifV9a4Bd_uiD_-PQeiRA3Tnj9SdR-VmSvgQoTCtxc9V6Ft0Db_X5Vt0gVChA/s1600/January+in+review.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_MsyAMP72WLJoVlf3HwMw4h2clvhXqhyphenhyphenHbltxgav53CaqUaFsJCCOcQfeVshWtsRAP9uaPw4V-ugwc9ifV9a4Bd_uiD_-PQeiRA3Tnj9SdR-VmSvgQoTCtxc9V6Ft0Db_X5Vt0gVChA/s400/January+in+review.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">January Review</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
didn’t strictly adhere to my ‘must write a new year resolution list’ at the
start of the month, in fact, I adopted an altogether new approach for 2017
which involves only a few goals, and a more laid back attitude. So far, so
good.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One
of the goals I did set for my blog was to publish a monthly review where I
could check stats, assess the posts I’ve written and the interaction they
received, as well as sharing the links in case anyone missed one. Over previous
years I’ve been a bit lax with analytics, but I’ve come to <span style="margin: 0px;">realise</span> that if I want to provide valuable <span style="margin: 0px;">content,</span> then I need to see what you, my
dearest blog reader, enjoys.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
have also been asked to provide a few guest posts for other blogs this month,
and I’ve embarked on a couple of advertising boosts to lift the profile of my
blog and hopefully get my articles in front of a wider audience, after all,
that’s the whole point of writing. I want to help as many people as I can to
embrace their best self, to be confident in their skin, and to believe that
they can achieve anything they want.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">How was January?</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Stats:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
delighted with the increase in views. Overall, the blog received 15,075 new
visits which <span style="margin: 0px;">is</span> an incredible leap. Yay!
The most popular post of the month was <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/adopt-skinny-thinking-routine-to-help.html" target="_blank">Adopt a Skinny Thinking Routine to Help with Your Weight Loss</a>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Published Posts:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/how-to-ensure-you-have-great-year-by.html" target="_blank">Week1</a> – How to Ensure You Have a Great Year Using a Happiness Jar</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/releasing-negative-emotions.html" target="_blank">Week2</a> – Releasing Negative Emotions</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/how-to-avoid-self-sabotage.html" target="_blank">Week3</a> – How to Avoid Self-Sabotage</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/adopt-skinny-thinking-routine-to-help.html" target="_blank">Week4</a> – Adopt a Skinny Thinking Routine to Help Your Weight Loss </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Guest Posts:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Rosie
Amber’s Blog – <a href="https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/2017/01/04/new-year-new-you-motivate-me-week-1-new-year-resolutions-with-shelleywilson72-wwwblogs/" target="_blank">Week 1</a> How to Review the Last 12 Months</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Rosie
Amber’s Blog – <a href="https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/2017/01/11/new-year-new-you-motivate-me-week-2-power-words-for-2017-with-shelleywilson72-wwwblogs/" target="_blank">Week 2</a> Power Words for 2017 </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Rosie
Amber’s Blog – <a href="https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/2017/01/18/new-year-new-you-motivate-me-week-3-setting-goals-with-shelleywilson72-wwwblogs/" target="_blank">Week 3</a> Setting Goals for 2017</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Rosie
Amber’s Blog – <a href="https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/2017/01/25/new-year-new-you-motivate-me-week-4-planning-for-a-perfect-year-with-shelleywilson72-wwwblogs/" target="_blank">Week 4</a> Planning for a Perfect Year </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Socially
Shared Business Network – <a href="http://www.sociallyshared.co.uk/single-post/2017/01/13/Change-Your-Beliefs-And-Your-Life-Changes" target="_blank">Change Your Beliefs and Change your Life</a></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Goals for
February:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">February
is the month of love! Those of you who know me well will understand when I
reach for the sick bucket. I don’t ‘do’ <span style="margin: 0px;">romance.
Actually, that’s</span> not strictly <span style="margin: 0px;">true; I</span>’ve
never met anyone who does romance and <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>
therefore only know about flowers, chocolates, and romantic weekend trips
because I’m a sucker for a rom-com film (<span style="margin: 0px;">sshh</span>,
don’t tell anyone).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
I can’t produce love infused blog posts from a personal perspective (unless we
count my horrific experiences on a dating site!), I thought I’d concentrate on
self-love. I know a great deal about this topic as it’s one of my <span style="margin: 0px;">main</span> goals for 2017 – learning to appreciate
myself, flaws and all, and turning the negative inner dialogue into positive
self-talk. February’s theme will cover this in more <span style="margin: 0px;">detail,</span> and I hope you enjoy reading my posts on this subject.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Over to You:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Your</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> mission if you
choose to accept it is<span style="margin: 0px;">…</span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
thought it might be a fun twist if at the end of every monthly review I set you
some fun exercises. I want you to think about the following questions, grab
your journal and note down any thoughts or feelings that bubble to the <span style="margin: 0px;">surface</span> or feel free to add your <span style="margin: 0px;">thoughts</span> in the comments below.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Q1.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What small steps can you take between now
and December 31<sup>st</sup> to achieve it?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Q2.
What does a day in the life of your dreams <span style="margin: 0px;">look
like</span>? Write your perfect day from the minute you wake up to when you go
to bed. Where are you, who are you with, what would you do?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Q3.
If money was not an issue what career would you have or what lifestyle would
you adopt?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ll
add another three questions to the February review. You don’t need to share
your <span style="margin: 0px;">answers; they</span>’re for your personal
development. If you can keep all your notes together in one journal then by the
end of the <span style="margin: 0px;">year,</span> you’ll have <span style="margin: 0px;">a great</span> overview of 2017 to work with when you
want to do a review, set goals, or release anything that isn’t serving your <span style="margin: 0px;">greater</span> purpose. Until next month.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span lang="EN" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><i><b>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </b></i></span><em><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><b> Twitter </b></span></em></span><em><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span style="margin: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">@</span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">ShelleyWilson72</span></b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Instagram</span></b></a><b> or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</span></b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</span></b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Pinterest</span></b></a></span></em></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-55094010767736005612017-01-22T23:43:00.000-08:002017-01-29T13:38:17.411-08:00Adopt a Skinny Thinking Routine to Help Your Weight Loss<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsl7gaAQIW6x1yRJO2ypUyKoFFy0ogC1981NCZEaLsm1U1viH9paItCRMjMNp2MtqkHywO-1t3tBfQY0gkfkAL2GE2z3N8QmCaKNBZJ0m8vwhCLPA_I4t7znfq3hKKfUxcgH6huQvOf7Q/s1600/Adopt+a+Skinny+Thinking+Routine.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsl7gaAQIW6x1yRJO2ypUyKoFFy0ogC1981NCZEaLsm1U1viH9paItCRMjMNp2MtqkHywO-1t3tBfQY0gkfkAL2GE2z3N8QmCaKNBZJ0m8vwhCLPA_I4t7znfq3hKKfUxcgH6huQvOf7Q/s400/Adopt+a+Skinny+Thinking+Routine.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
recently re-joined my local Slimming World class to help me shift the extra
pounds that crept on last year. Aside from the weight loss goal there is
another reason for going back to <span style="margin: 0px;">group</span>
and that’s the social aspect. I love the camaraderie at the meetings, and the
support at weigh in. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
spent a huge portion of 2016 climbing on my scales only to find that needle
kept getting higher. I would then spiral into doom and gloom and end up
attacking the biscuit tin. Why we choose to abuse ourselves by adding to the
problem can probably be explained by using the techniques I wrote about in
last week’s post – avoiding self-sabotage, which you can read <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/how-to-avoid-self-sabotage.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">There
have been plenty of articles and books written about the benefits and pitfalls
of slimming groups. I fully believe that </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">if you visit a class and understand
just how powerful a support network they can be you’ll be able to see the
attraction.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Some
of the ladies <span style="margin: 0px;">in</span> my group have a few pounds
to <span style="margin: 0px;">lose; others</span> have <span style="margin: 0px;">more than two stone</span> in weight to shift.
Everyone’s weight loss journey is unique to them, and yet the welcome and support
you receive from the leader, and the other members <span style="margin: 0px;">aren't</span> gauged on your size and shape but on the fact that you’ve
made a step towards changing your health and wellbeing.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
I mentioned earlier, this is my return trip. I lost over one stone in weight
when I went before but found it far too easy to slip back into bad habits when
I wasn’t going to group meetings every week. When I re-joined, I knew I wanted
to be in this for the long haul. I also knew I needed the hustle and bustle of
the <span style="margin: 0px;">group</span>, to physically leave the house,
chat about recipes, and make new friends face to face as my entire life
revolves around an online world.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">There
was one thing, however, that I wanted to do differently this time. I wanted to
adopt a skinny thinking routine. One of the reasons I stopped going to group
before was the obsession I developed with food. Not the eating of it, but
thinking about it, talking about it, and fixating on it. <span style="margin: 0px;">This isn’t</span> <span style="margin: 0px;">a
healthy</span> approach. Yes, I lost weight, but in <span style="margin: 0px;">reality,</span> I’d only pulled the flower off the dandelion – the roots <span style="margin: 0px;">were still embedded</span>. Nothing was ever going to
change because deep down, my attitude to food hadn’t changed.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
self-sabotage aspects I discussed in last week’s post played a factor in this,
but as I begin my 2017 healthy eating program, I’m in a different place
mentally. <span style="margin: 0px;">I’m better equipped</span> to
understand <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why</i> I attack the biscuit
tin, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why</i> <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span> pile on the pounds, and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why</i>
I keep repeating the cycle. For <span style="margin: 0px;">me,</span> it
all goes back to my ‘I’m not good enough’ limiting belief. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">To
break my over <span style="margin: 0px;">analysing</span> preoccupation
with food, I’ve decided to complement my Slimming World journey with a skinny
thinking routine. You might be wondering what <span style="margin: 0px;">skinny</span>
thinking is all about. Allow me to explain - think <span style="margin: 0px;">of</span> a friend or family member who has always been skinny, never been
on a diet, eats what they want, and probably hasn’t seen the inside of a gym in
their life. You’ll find that they <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never</i>
talk about food, and they <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">never</i> think
about it. They just eat when they’re hungry, and <span style="margin: 0px;">normally</span> eat whatever they fancy. That’s it! Skinny people stay <span style="margin: 0px;">skinny</span> because they don’t obsess about food –
ever!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Being
on a healthy eating plan such as Slimming World means you do have to think
about food at some <span style="margin: 0px;">point. However</span>, this
is where my routine will apply. My class is on a Thursday <span style="margin: 0px;">evening,</span> and for that night only I will talk
about <span style="margin: 0px;">syns</span>, cooking, what I weigh, what I’ve
lost or put on, congratulate or commiserate with my fellow members, and
exchange recipes. When I get home I will plan out my meals for the coming week
(breakfast, lunch, and dinner), do an online <span style="margin: 0px;">shop,</span>
so <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span> know <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>’ve
got all the ingredients, and then I’ll get on with my week.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Spending
a few hours to plan and <span style="margin: 0px;">organise</span> my meals
creates a safety net around my weight loss that skinny thinkers do
automatically. In my new non-fiction book, which should be out later this year,
I’ve dedicated an entire chapter to planning and <span style="margin: 0px;">organising</span> your life to reap the <span style="margin: 0px;">huge</span>
benefits that being in control can offer. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Where
skinny thinkers might grab a meal deal from M&S in their lunch break
without a second thought, I’ll be able to <span style="margin: 0px;">grab</span>
my ready-made tuna pasta salad from the fridge. My plan stays on track, my body
enjoys healthy foods, and my overactive mind doesn’t even have to get involved
in the great food debate. Therefore, that sneaky limiting belief of <span style="margin: 0px;">‘you</span>’re not good enough’ that’s telling me to
eat a Chicken Legend from <span style="margin: 0px;">McDonald's</span>
stays dormant and I win at weight loss.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Can you develop
the skinny thinking routine? Maybe you already have an <span style="margin: 0px;">organised</span> plan in place to help you with your weight loss journey.
I’d love to hear your story so please share it in the comments.</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b><i><span lang="EN" style="margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Thanks
for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect
with me here: </span><em><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"> Twitter </span></em></span></i></b><em><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span style="margin: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">@</span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">ShelleyWilson72</span></b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Instagram</span></b></a><b>
or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</span></b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</span></b></a><b>.
You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b><span style="color: #0066cc; margin: 0px;">Pinterest</span></b></a></span></em></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-79055001483365295312017-01-15T23:27:00.000-08:002017-01-22T23:47:02.707-08:00How to Avoid Self-Sabotage<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vgKHW1KeFGiqbJLzJ5vFlL1p6CdetD1Krds1nI-HRc4nLavqVgCZ6rTvCFf7I2FWVEA6x8zMegkkIgl6aNJFN_2GuTDh7EgmhyphenhyphenWHI8SbVqBafjajS-5KwEu5q8cAo2Fek6qL-jLDJuU/s1600/How+To+Avoid+Self-Sabotage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vgKHW1KeFGiqbJLzJ5vFlL1p6CdetD1Krds1nI-HRc4nLavqVgCZ6rTvCFf7I2FWVEA6x8zMegkkIgl6aNJFN_2GuTDh7EgmhyphenhyphenWHI8SbVqBafjajS-5KwEu5q8cAo2Fek6qL-jLDJuU/s400/How+To+Avoid+Self-Sabotage.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">For
thousands of people across the <span style="margin: 0px;">globe,</span> the
New Year is a time for goal setting. Whether you believe in resolutions or not,
we can’t help but feel slightly inspired to create a few ‘I’d like to do…’, or ‘I
will achieve…’ situations for the year ahead.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
you all know, I do love a good list writing session, and jotting down all the
possibilities a new year brings would be my perfect Saturday night! I haven’t
been as regimented with my resolutions for 2017. My recent illness and battle
with depression and anxiety have taken the shine <span style="margin: 0px;">off setting</span> too many challenges. However, the goals I have set for
myself are still bold enough to push me out of my comfort zone and keep me
focused.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One
of my main faults is a tendency for </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">procrastination. The pull of social media
can be too much some <span style="margin: 0px;">days,</span> and I will
lose an hour or two surfing cute kitty pictures, or watching DIY videos on how to make
bath bombs! I will then glance at my ever increasing to-do list and feel
guilty.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Even
though my procrastination doesn’t do any real harm, it is still an act of
self-sabotage, and this is one of my top goals to work on during 2017.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Self-sabotage
affects many areas of our lives. It can have an impact on our careers,
friendships, and relationships. We can ‘act out’ in a variety of ways including
over-indulgence in alcohol, and eating fatty/<span style="margin: 0px;">sweet</span>
(comfort) foods. I gave up alcohol three years ago because I realised that I
was using it as a crutch. Instead of working on any uncomfortable issues or
emotions, I masked them with a bottle of Chardonnay. Instead of developing my
social skills, I flung as many mojitos down my neck as <span style="margin: 0px;">possible so that</span> I could be ‘the life and soul of the party’. Unfortunately,
alcohol is also a depressant so I would wake up the next morning feeling groggy
and nauseous, and then over analyse every moment of the evening to see if I’d
said something wrong, offended anyone, made a fool of <span style="margin: 0px;">myself</span> or embarrassed myself or my friends/family. It was a vicious
cycle of anxiety, guilt, and self-hatred. So I stopped drinking.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
only more recently that I understood the nature of self-sabotage. In truth, it’s
just our warped attempt to protect ourselves from harm. I realise that my procrastination
<span style="margin: 0px;">is linked</span> to a limiting belief that ‘I’m
not good enough.’ The only way I will change my procrastination habit is to
recognise that fact and understand that this <span style="margin: 0px;">single</span>
<span style="margin: 0px;">belief</span> is what’s driving my
self-sabotage. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Can
you resonate with this? Do you follow a similar pattern? Maybe you drink a bit
more that you should, or rack up a credit card bill on <span style="margin: 0px;">inconsequential</span> items. Are you single and feel like you’re always
pushing potential partners away, or maybe you are often overlooked for
promotion. All of these situations can occur because you are self-sabotaging.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">How
can you break the cycle?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
always revert to my obsession with list writing to help me dig a little deeper
into my subconscious. Journaling works well but sometimes we need a list rather
than a group of sentences.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
I wanted to discover more about my procrastination <span style="margin: 0px;">habits,</span> for example, I would jot down everything associated <span style="margin: 0px;">with</span> that word or theme.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Things
like:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Fear</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Avoidance</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Humiliation</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My
list is much longer and if I think of anything else I’ll add it. Once complete
I can <span style="margin: 0px;">analyse</span> the words I’ve chosen to
see if there is a <span style="margin: 0px;">pattern</span> or any
revelations.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
three words I’ve shared above cover my ‘I’m not good enough’ scenario quite
well. Fear - I’m afraid that people will think I’m an idiot. Avoidance - If I
don’t start a project then I can’t finish it and then <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>’m safe from people seeing it and thinking I’m an idiot. Humiliation
– What if I complete a project and share it, and people think I<span style="margin: 0px;">’m an idiot</span>?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
sharing this example with you because I am <span style="margin: 0px;">fully</span>
aware of where this limiting belief comes from (an ex-husband) and I’m working
hard to dispel it. What I want you to do is take a look at your <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> life and see if you’ve developed any
self-sabotaging habits.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Do
you believe that you deserve good things in life? Can you follow your dreams
and believe they will come <span style="margin: 0px;">true</span>? Answer
honestly. If you feel <span style="margin: 0px;">a resistance,</span> think
about the words or feelings that are bubbling up and jot them down. These words
will help you to discover more about your beliefs.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Learning
to avoid self-sabotage comes from an understanding of how you are holding
yourself back. You can only change what you <span style="margin: 0px;">know.</span>
Unfortunately, there isn’t a quick fix, but to recognise what is driving your
behaviour is a step in the right direction.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><b><i>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </i></b><em><b> Twitter </b><a class="mention mention-current-user" href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span class="mentions-prefix"><b><span style="color: #0066cc;">@</span></b></span><b><span style="color: #0066cc;">ShelleyWilson72</span></b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b><span style="color: #0066cc;">Instagram</span></b></a><b> or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson" rel="nofollow"><b><span style="color: #0066cc;">http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</span></b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b><span style="color: #0066cc;">http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</span></b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b><span style="color: #0066cc;">Pinterest</span></b></a><b> </b></em></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-50258012518436429302017-01-08T22:55:00.000-08:002017-01-15T23:28:08.380-08:00Releasing Negative Emotions<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTslce6SnAXUk_tEKLhdmcSmcd0Kg21ANvhFMoAmFqEnkCafTDcJVwlOIFTjXJyXPX29bfP8Z_mCn_jKRe8fLrBKkrU0SfQAMrdoBHARClLLmn6hyRKsBAjweji0tQde6QacQbT_mT6co/s1600/Releasing+Negative+Emotions+Blog+Title.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTslce6SnAXUk_tEKLhdmcSmcd0Kg21ANvhFMoAmFqEnkCafTDcJVwlOIFTjXJyXPX29bfP8Z_mCn_jKRe8fLrBKkrU0SfQAMrdoBHARClLLmn6hyRKsBAjweji0tQde6QacQbT_mT6co/s400/Releasing+Negative+Emotions+Blog+Title.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
only into the second week of the <span style="margin: 0px;">year,</span>
and I’ve already steered away from my lovingly constructed blog schedule!
However, in my <span style="margin: 0px;">defence</span>, I have a valid
reason for needing to throw all my <span style="margin: 0px;">well-laid</span>
plans aside and share this story, and that’s <span style="margin: 0px;">because</span>
it HURT!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Since
the middle of last <span style="margin: 0px;">year,</span> I have <span style="margin: 0px;">had</span> regular acupuncture sessions with <span style="margin: 0px;">a wonderful</span> therapist called <span style="margin: 0px;">Jo, who</span> is insightful, compassionate, and
highly skilled. I know without any doubt that the sessions are making a
difference, not just physically, but emotionally.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">We
talk through so many issues, and Jo has an incredible knack <span style="margin: 0px;">for</span> getting </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">me to reveal my <span style="margin: 0px;">innermost</span> fears without ever <span style="margin: 0px;">realising</span> I’m doing it! We were chatting about
the release of my latest fiction book recently, and it was all very innocent
until she started <span style="margin: 0px;">to quiz me about the goals of
the main character</span>. ‘What does she want to be at the end of the story?’ <span style="margin: 0px;">she</span> asked me. The answer came like a bolt of
lightning ‘Strong!’ I <span style="margin: 0px;">realised</span> then that
I wasn’t taking about my sixteen-year-old protagonist, but about myself – the lead
in an altogether different story.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I have learned to go with the flow during my acupuncture sessions as I’m never
sure what will come up, or if I’ll have any more flashes of inspiration (there
have been many!) </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">On
Tuesday, I asked Jo if we could work on a physical issue I’ve struggled with
ever since I developed the viral infection that did so much damage to my body,
mind, and soul. It waxes and wanes in <span style="margin: 0px;">intensity,</span>
but at the moment the horrific pain in my hip is a constant drain. I can’t
sleep, sit, or stand – you can see how troublesome this issue might be.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Stretched
out on the couch and resembling a porcupine, I waited to see what Jo would
discover. She began to work on the pressure points around my lower back and sacroiliac
joint (this joint lies next to the bottom of the spine, below the lumbar and above
the coccyx. It connects the sacrum with the pelvis). The pain intensified as
she found the spot and it became increasingly uncomfortable. As I remained flat on
my back, staring up at the ceiling, Jo talked through possible medical reasons
for my pain such as inflammation of the hip joint. She <span style="margin: 0px;">talked,</span> and I grew more and more uncomfortable. The pain was
increasing to an unbearable level. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When
I am struggling with my hip and leg pain it’s relatively easy to switch
position, stretch your leg, roll over, or walk around until the pain lessens.
However, when your body <span style="margin: 0px;">is covered</span> in
fine acupuncture <span style="margin: 0px;">needles,</span> and a therapist
is ‘working’ <span style="margin: 0px;">on</span> <span style="margin: 0px;">a specific</span> <span style="margin: 0px;">area,</span> it’s not
possible to twitch, let alone move. So, the pain grew, the tears began to fall,
and I squirmed as much as was safely possible. Jo, however, didn’t stop. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">She
kept talking, helped me to find a relaxed breathing pattern (which was much
harder than it sounds!) and kept working on the pressure point. Eventually, she
asked me what negative emotion I was holding onto that related to my womb. That
was it – the floodgates <span style="margin: 0px;">opened,</span> and I
sobbed. My body temperature shot through the <span style="margin: 0px;">roof,</span>
and the pain was beyond anything I can describe –
even childbirth! Jo kept talking and reminded me to breathe slowly and evenly.
She asked me to explain what words/feelings/<span style="margin: 0px;">colours</span>
were bubbling up for me. With my eyes tightly shut I told her I could see a
river of red. The words that bubbled to the surface were <span style="margin: 0px;">pain</span>, hurt, and anger.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
thing is, I knew <span style="margin: 0px;">exactly</span> what emotion Jo
had <span style="margin: 0px;">tapped into</span>. When she mentioned <span style="margin: 0px;">womb,</span> it resonated with my children. My
amazing, happy, healthy children who had been through hell at the hands of
their father. Bullied and beaten, discarded, and abandoned, and yet stronger
and more resilient than any other kids I’ve ever met. My children are my entire
world, and for what must be fourteen years I’ve held onto all the negative
energy of those times when we lived with my ex, and when I discovered what he
had done to them after we separated. My heart broke in two – again. I’d spent
so many years slapping plasters on my broken heart thinking that I was
releasing all the negative associations <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>
experienced through therapy and self-help, only to <span style="margin: 0px;">realise</span> in my acupuncture session that <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span> hadn’t released anything, I’d just stored it until my body
decided to take action.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Just
when I thought I might pass out because of the pain, it vanished. Right as Jo
told me to ‘let it go’ and guided my breathing back onto an even keel again. It
went. Poof! I was a wreck, my pulses were wobbly, my hands and legs were
shaking, and my well-constructed make-up was now a series of streaks. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Jo
finished our session with strict instructions for me to spend the rest of the
day looking after myself. I did as she suggested and curled up with my adult <span style="margin: 0px;">colouring</span> books, a stack of Kleenex, and a mug
of tea. I <span style="margin: 0px;">was shattered</span>, emotionally and
physically. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
entire process had taken a couple of <span style="margin: 0px;">minutes,</span>
but the impact it had on me will last a lifetime. It’s made me rethink all my
personal development techniques, and establish a plan to re-evaluate what I
need to do in the future. I had kidded myself that I <span style="margin: 0px;">was fixed</span>, believing that <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>
had dealt with my marriage issues, which is partly <span style="margin: 0px;">true</span>, but not when it comes to my children, those wounds are as raw
as the day I got them.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">So,
as I sipped my tea and snuffled into my tissue, I knew I had to share this with
my blog readers. I wanted to highlight how easy it is to hold onto the baggage,
even when you think you’re doing everything right to correct the wrongs, and
live a positive life.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
<span style="margin: 0px;">realised</span> that we have a variety of ways in
which we hold onto negative emotions:</span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">People pleasing.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Being a victim instead of a survivor.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Comparing ourselves to others.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Collecting our negative memories.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Since
that session, I’ve poured my thoughts, emotions, and fears out into my journal. I’ve
underlined the words I’ve written that flag up a possible issue such as fear,
concern, and sadness. I made a vow to myself that I would dig deeper with my
personal development and release as much negativity as I possibly can. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My
hip is still painful, although I’ve managed to sleep over the past few nights,
and this tells me I still have emotions to release. As much as I love acupuncture,
I’m not looking forward to my next <span style="margin: 0px;">session. However</span>,
<span style="margin: 0px;">I</span> know I need to be brave. Finding a way
to release the negative emotions needs to be a priority. For me, acupuncture is
a great fit, but you might require a talking therapy, Emotional Freedom
Technique, or CBT/NLP, or even hypnosis to help free you of negative emotions
and their physical manifestations. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Do
we ever get to the end of our journey for peace? Or do we just swap one issue
for another? Just before I left the <span style="margin: 0px;">centre</span>,
Jo told me that everything I’m dealing with has manifested because I’m in the
right place, physically, emotionally, and spiritually to deal with it. I didn’t
feel like it at the time, but on <span style="margin: 0px;">reflection,</span>
I know she’s right.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
come a long way on my development <span style="margin: 0px;">pathway,</span>
and I know I’ve still got plenty of work to do, but <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span> also understand that what I’m doing benefits my mental health,
physical well-being, and prepares me to support my children as they grow. They
are <span style="margin: 0px;">wonderful</span> teenagers on the threshold
of becoming fully fledged adults with lives, partners, and careers to <span style="margin: 0px;">deal with</span>. My job as a <span style="margin: 0px;">mum</span> is the most important role I’ll ever have, and I’m going to
make sure I can give my children <span style="margin: 0px;">one-hundred-per-cent</span>.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">I’d love to hear your stories of revelation.
Have you ever experienced something so powerful during<span style="margin: 0px;"> therapy?</span> Do you know what you need to work on for your <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> development? Perhaps you’ve got a great tip
for hip pain! Feel free to share your comments below.</span></b><br />
<div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"></span><b><i>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </i></b><em><b> Twitter </b><a class="mention mention-current-user" href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span class="mentions-prefix"><b>@</b></span><b>ShelleyWilson72</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b>Instagram</b></a><b> or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson" rel="nofollow"><b>http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b>http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b>Pinterest</b></a><b> </b></em></div>
<br />Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-7706787735110147802017-01-01T23:48:00.000-08:002017-01-08T22:49:16.688-08:00How to Ensure You Have a Great Year by Using a Happiness Jar <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZHG6MyhVnzCR8BPpuQm11bYDcf7DFY0wYIO5UR7gW1ghsxh4t8rF8lTM4aWYEtuJ20yRQYR-USqPcvxQDgM80yfqmfxBjsjWLUP841xir30XBk69N6-bPYRN6NnTyfXvKJ96UvhYAa4/s1600/How+to+ensure+you+have+a+great+year+by+using+a+happiness+jar.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZHG6MyhVnzCR8BPpuQm11bYDcf7DFY0wYIO5UR7gW1ghsxh4t8rF8lTM4aWYEtuJ20yRQYR-USqPcvxQDgM80yfqmfxBjsjWLUP841xir30XBk69N6-bPYRN6NnTyfXvKJ96UvhYAa4/s400/How+to+ensure+you+have+a+great+year+by+using+a+happiness+jar.png" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When
I was younger, I would write my New Year Resolution or goals list based on what
I wanted to do, be, or have that would make me happy. It took me several
decades to understand that happiness comes from within and isn’t a physical
object, place, or person.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuZHG6MyhVnzCR8BPpuQm11bYDcf7DFY0wYIO5UR7gW1ghsxh4t8rF8lTM4aWYEtuJ20yRQYR-USqPcvxQDgM80yfqmfxBjsjWLUP841xir30XBk69N6-bPYRN6NnTyfXvKJ96UvhYAa4/s1600/How+to+ensure+you+have+a+great+year+by+using+a+happiness+jar.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
human nature to want to make our lives better. However, we have an inbuilt security
system that resists change. So how do you make improvements to your life
without upsetting that inner control freak?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Several
years ago I saw a meme on Facebook which suggested starting a gratitude jar.
The idea appealed to me, but in the <span style="margin: 0px;">example,</span>
you were told to write down something that you were grateful for each day,
week, or month. <span style="margin: 0px;">While</span> I approved of the
sentiment, I was already adding my thoughts of gratitude to my daily journal.
So, I improvised.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My
happiness jar begins on the 1<sup>st</sup> January every year. Anything that I
do over the course of twelve months which made me happy goes into my jar. I’m
not only talking about the big achievements, even though they do make it into
the pot, but the small moments, the kind people, and the instants of pride,
joy, and hope that filled the year.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUdbgxLklcRVdTDUQlea2hOmVgCtbZjQds2ALfKTscQyJacpSFmBgHxTTOAyKVsRlwigbjqccoaF-ms-0Z9XHykQoATMDcZWxkNNr29Y8lNsPvdOIPuOU5LHtzLxZAcFso3kJMQtx2Q4/s1600/MM+Blog+post+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUdbgxLklcRVdTDUQlea2hOmVgCtbZjQds2ALfKTscQyJacpSFmBgHxTTOAyKVsRlwigbjqccoaF-ms-0Z9XHykQoATMDcZWxkNNr29Y8lNsPvdOIPuOU5LHtzLxZAcFso3kJMQtx2Q4/s200/MM+Blog+post+3.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">2016
started off with a bang for me. The first six months were <span style="margin: 0px;">exceptional,</span> but then I hit a brick wall with
my health and depression and struggled to keep my head up for the remaining
half of the year. When you are living in a slump, it can be <span style="margin: 0px;">tough</span> to focus on the positives. Using the
happiness jar allows me to remember all the precious moments I experienced, the
<span style="margin: 0px;">wonderful</span> people who came into my <span style="margin: 0px;">life</span> or helped me along my path, and this turns
negativity on its head.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">On
New Year’s <span style="margin: 0px;">Eve,</span> I open my jar, tip the
contents onto the table and read all the tiny slips of paper. I light a candle,
make myself a cup of tea, indulge in a biscuit or two, and focus my time
entirely on the positivity of 2016. By the end of this exercise I am no longer fixated
on the darker side of my year, but instead, <span style="margin: 0px;">I’m
filled</span> with hope, joy, and determination that the New Year will bring
more incredible experiences to overflow my jar once again.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Some
examples from my 2016 happiness jar include: </span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My acupuncture sessions with Jo (Sept)</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Joined the gym and started running again (May)</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Having hot chocolate with my daughter before sales shopping – a lovely morning full of giggles (Jan)</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I was a guest speaker at the It’s Your Life West Midlands event (Jan)</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Drive-in Movie with the girls (Sept)</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoid8dLbkhBX6MOsZ7ItO7JnG52sUxtn6Lgc7F-Md9zyTu84Sfbmv-J-BlEhOvz6NRXPdcyUC78p9j5_Ql8d9f61csWMIPIXGn31iyzS7cg3ecfjagvVnF6OSNA-4eoOC6gg9jqY1wK8/s1600/MM+Blog+post+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoid8dLbkhBX6MOsZ7ItO7JnG52sUxtn6Lgc7F-Md9zyTu84Sfbmv-J-BlEhOvz6NRXPdcyUC78p9j5_Ql8d9f61csWMIPIXGn31iyzS7cg3ecfjagvVnF6OSNA-4eoOC6gg9jqY1wK8/s200/MM+Blog+post+2.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">There
are coffee dates, cinema trips, author/blogger events, and a host of other
happy moments from last year in my jar. By doing this <span style="margin: 0px;">exercise,</span> I’m allowing myself to start a New Year with an optimistic
vibe. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It
doesn’t take a lot of effort to start this great habit. Grab a mug, teapot, or
old jam jar, or buy yourself <span style="margin: 0px;">a pretty</span>
Mason jar and decorate it. Keep a small notepad close by so you can jot down
anything that you did, or experienced, that made you smile, and add it to your
pot. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
keep my happiness jar in a prominent place in my kitchen, that way I’m always
reminded to add to it over the twelve months. It’s also a visual reminder of
all the <span style="margin: 0px;">good</span> things in your life when you
see it filling up.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Let me know if
you start your happiness project, and feel free to post any photographs of your
jar on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog" target="_blank">Motivate Me Facebook</a> page. </span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Happy New Year! </span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUO6V-pqPG2pTVqoEqFDJg80E-H6U9FEpC54OaaXCblbXBdcJuY7M40-PepHCoufF6lVs4OhDYOMMfuT32jq4r-1lttVcu1WNTdWiOGaT2xl7kIR00ffjb3JM4s8qZTz3-k0zxLAY5x9w/s1600/How+to+ensure+you+have+a+great+year+by+using+a+happiness+jar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUO6V-pqPG2pTVqoEqFDJg80E-H6U9FEpC54OaaXCblbXBdcJuY7M40-PepHCoufF6lVs4OhDYOMMfuT32jq4r-1lttVcu1WNTdWiOGaT2xl7kIR00ffjb3JM4s8qZTz3-k0zxLAY5x9w/s320/How+to+ensure+you+have+a+great+year+by+using+a+happiness+jar.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><b><i>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </i></b><em><b>Twitter </b><a class="mention mention-current-user" href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span class="mentions-prefix"><b>@</b></span><b>ShelleyWilson72</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b>Instagram</b></a><b> or check out my Facebook pages </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson" rel="nofollow"><b>http://www.facebook.com/FantasyAuthorSLWilson</b></a><b> and </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b>http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b>Pinterest</b></a><b> </b></em></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-615719577146365372017-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:002017-04-18T04:31:29.317-07:00Happy Birthday: My Blog is 4 Today! #WeekendBlogShare<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Achievements
come in all shapes and sizes. They can be related to weight loss, fitness,
creativity, habits, friendships, romance, or career. For me, the first day of
the year is always a reminder that one of my greatest achievements was starting
this blog.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Today,
Motivate Me (formally known as Resolution Challenge) is four years old! Now
that’s an achievement worth rejoicing.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
you celebrate the New Year with your family and friends, remember to embrace
all your achievements, whether they are big or small, and channel that positive
energy into your festivities. You deserve to have an outstanding 2017 full of
fun, hope, abundance, and joy.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Happy
New Year to you all, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for joining me
on my blogging journey, it’s hugely appreciated.</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-48709716996422091872016-12-27T23:48:00.005-08:002017-01-01T23:48:43.391-08:00A Year in Review #wwwBlogs<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">A Year in Review</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">At
this time of <span style="margin: 0px;">year,</span> it’s hard not to reflect
on the past twelve months. However, it can be too easy to dwell on the
negatives and forget about all the positive things that might have happened - births,
marriages, new friendships, events, laughter, and love.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Before
I shuffle off to enjoy a mince pie or two, I thought it <span style="margin: 0px;">would be nice</span> to round off 2016 by doing a blog post dedicated to a
review of my year. As many of my regular readers know, I do love to set goals
and challenges, and I equally enjoy sharing the highs and lows with all of you.
Why not do your <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> year in review? Feel
free to add a brief summary in the comments below, or jot it in your journal.
It’s a fun exercise to try. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Books I’ve Read:
50</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Every
year I set myself a Goodreads reading challenge. For the past couple of <span style="margin: 0px;">years,</span> I’ve aimed to read 50 books and managed
to achieve this. Some of my book blogger friends have read 200+ books this
year. I think I’ll stick with my lower target of 50 for 2017!</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Here
<span style="margin: 0px;">is</span> a selection of the books I’ve read and
enjoyed this year. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">You can read the reviews for each of these over on my <a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.com/books-i-have-reviewed/">author blog</a>.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAitH7cvzhUksu6ruGdmV_3pcSNA7HeLavDaLm6mwIx97BL1s9TSFTBcNR3r05qC_4T9QCpjCPmGKcZE-p1vrKzBCpQBWrSerlogWdcqrLhlkmQukewU7Lf3Gxc7Mx_KHeH12fH1Uq0c/s1600/Books+I%2527ve+Read+2016.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAitH7cvzhUksu6ruGdmV_3pcSNA7HeLavDaLm6mwIx97BL1s9TSFTBcNR3r05qC_4T9QCpjCPmGKcZE-p1vrKzBCpQBWrSerlogWdcqrLhlkmQukewU7Lf3Gxc7Mx_KHeH12fH1Uq0c/s320/Books+I%2527ve+Read+2016.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Book/Blog/Holistic
Events Attended: 11</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
was on the Health and Healing Radio show in January to talk about my books.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Attended
a couple of blogger/author <span style="margin: 0px;">meet-ups</span> in
Birmingham for the Book Connectors Facebook group, meeting many of my online friends
face-to-face for the first time.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
was <span style="margin: 0px;">honoured</span> to be a guest speaker at the
‘It’s Your Life West Midlands’ Wellbeing Show, where I did a talk about
meditation.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">After
reading Writers’ Forum magazine for many <span style="margin: 0px;">years,</span>
I was delighted to appear on the glossy pages in one of their author features.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Every
year I try to attend various Mind, Body, Spirit events selling my non-fiction
books and crystal gifts. <span style="margin: 0px;">It’s always so much fun
to meet readers in person and find out about their challenges and dreams.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
facilitated several <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Self-Publishing for
Your Business</i> workshops for local networking groups.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">In
June I went to the Annual Blogger Bash in London where I scooped the top prize
for Most Inspirational Blog.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpRoec8vXTdL6ZOD0N7FS-Jl5a8WjEhV8lWLRun2Ij43JxfeeRNHPDpFMpCP0_cJFeqZw9RYm4xIOunwAZqT_ooqqGjSXxUm7ooN-P6hlbITqTgUyukNZ4Fn-yDIQKqsiQSMm4_4rQpI/s1600/Year+in+Review+2016.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpRoec8vXTdL6ZOD0N7FS-Jl5a8WjEhV8lWLRun2Ij43JxfeeRNHPDpFMpCP0_cJFeqZw9RYm4xIOunwAZqT_ooqqGjSXxUm7ooN-P6hlbITqTgUyukNZ4Fn-yDIQKqsiQSMm4_4rQpI/s320/Year+in+Review+2016.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Greatest Achievements:
2</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Winning
the <a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.com/2016/06/13/a-picture-is-worth-a-thousand-words-mondayblogs-bloggersbash/">Most Inspirational Blog </a><span style="margin: 0px;"><a href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.com/2016/06/13/a-picture-is-worth-a-thousand-words-mondayblogs-bloggersbash/">Award</a></span> was a
huge <span style="margin: 0px;">achievement</span> for me. Blogging is something
I love to do, and yet it’s <span style="margin: 0px;">a lonely</span> task,
as is writing in general, and very often you can feel like it’s just you and
your laptop. Not only was I nominated for this award (something that filled me
with pride), but tons of people voted for me so I could win! That was a huge
boost for my <span style="margin: 0px;">self-confidence</span> and tugged
on the old heart strings. Thank you if you took the time to vote for me, it was
hugely appreciated. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shelley-Wilson/e/B00G5KPMJI">published three books</a> in <span style="margin: 0px;">2016,</span> and I’ve written
two more which are in the editing stages.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Guardians
of the Sky (the second book in my young adult fantasy trilogy) was published in
January, followed by Guardians of the Lost Lands (book three) in November. On 1<sup>st</sup>
December I also published my Motivate Me! Oracle Guidebook which has received
great feedback.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Goals Met for
2016: </span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
do love writing my New Year Resolution list but following a couple of years
with health issues, having to close my holistic business, and coping with my
depression and anxiety, the goals were few and far between this year. The
couple I did set were based <span style="margin: 0px;">on</span> my
writing, health, and family.</span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<s><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Write and publish two books in 2016</span></s><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">. I met and exceeded this goal!</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<s><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Exercise a minimum of twice a week</span></s><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">. I joined a local gym and began using the treadmill four times a week. With a recent chest <span style="margin: 0px;">infection,</span> I’ve had to ease up on <span style="margin: 0px;">this,</span> but I look forward to getting back to the gym in the New Year.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Spend more quality time with the kids. I can’t tick this goal off as it <span style="margin: 0px;">wasn’t achieved</span> to how I’d pictured it in my head. Once upon a time I would take my three children out every month for a family fun day (ice skating, cinema, beach, etc.)<span style="margin: 0px;">. However</span>, my kids are now 18, 15, and 14 and have their routines, friends, and desires. The family days out didn’t happen very <span style="margin: 0px;">often,</span> but I’m the only one who was upset by this. Kids grow <span style="margin: 0px;">up; the</span> family dynamics <span style="margin: 0px;">evolve,</span> and in 2017 I need to embrace these changes and set my family goals around the ever changing landscape that is <span style="margin: 0px;">teenage</span> life!</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Best Bit of
2016: </span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Winning
the blogger award was pretty amazing, as was appearing on the glossy pages of
Writers’ Forum magazine, but I have to say, for me, the best bit of 2016 has
been the friendships I’ve developed, both old and new. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
had the opportunity to meet many online friends face-to-face this year, friends
who have been a big part of my ‘virtual’ life for four years. I’ve basked in
the London sunshine chatting about kids, grandkids, and life in general, and I’ve
sipped coffee and talked books, writing, and blogging with people who I only
knew by their thumbnail photograph (apparently, I’m much taller than my
picture!!). Social media can be a scary place sometimes, but the benefits of
these platforms can offer incredible opportunities, and for <span style="margin: 0px;">that,</span> I’m eternally grateful.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">There are people who come</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> into your life and change it for the better,
there are those who only stay for a short time and then disappear, and there
are those friends who develop into something special. I’ve seen my friendships
change irrevocably over the past couple of years, and I’ve noticed who has
stuck by me when I hit rock <span style="margin: 0px;">bottom</span> while
learning hard lessons about negativity and misplaced trust. I could include the
friendships I’ve lost in my ‘worst bits’ section, but I don’t want to dwell on
these people. I want to embrace the positive energy I’ve received from those
incredible friends who supported <span style="margin: 0px;">me</span> and
continue to do so.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Worst Bit of
2016:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Depression!
I know I’ve blogged about this before and <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>
know it came as a shock to many of my regular readers just how much <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>’ve struggled with mental health the past
couple of years, but I feel it’s one of the most important topics to <span style="margin: 0px;">talk about</span>. We all have a bad day <span style="margin: 0px;">now and then</span>, but depression and anxiety are
nothing like the bad day’s I’ve ever experienced before. A bad day can escalate
into a week of inner torment, revulsion, and guilt. I’ve tried to notice the
signs of <span style="margin: 0px;">a low</span> period before it comes,
but most often I’ve been side-swiped by it and had no energy <span style="margin: 0px;">even to muster a smile</span>. I know that I neglected
my blog for a large chunk of 2016 and depression was the main reason behind
this. Trying to inspire, and offer advice to others when you feel such a
failure is not conducive of a motivational blog! </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">On
the plus side, I’ve done so much research, self-care, and soul searching that I
should have enough content to fill my blog for the next few years now! When I
have a good <span style="margin: 0px;">day,</span> I write. I pour the
words <span style="margin: 0px;">onto</span> the page and revel in the
passion of what I love to do. When I struggle to lift my head, I now understand
that this is okay, and I don’t beat myself up about taking a time out.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">So,
my worst bit of 2016 has taught me <span style="margin: 0px;">an important</span>
lesson in learning to listen to my <span style="margin: 0px;">body</span>
and slow down. To allow <span style="margin: 0px;">myself</span> those dark
periods but not <span style="margin: 0px;">analyse</span> and judge them.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">New Beginnings -
Goals for 2017:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">With
the New Year ahead I feel excited about setting myself goals. I understand that
I still can’t take too much on and that’s okay. I will play to my strengths in
2017.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Writing
and health will take <span style="margin: 0px;">centre</span> stage again
next year, but I also hope to be able to start running my workshops again. In
2016 I began developing a range of <span style="margin: 0px;">eCourses,</span>
and so I hope to deliver these in 2017.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
been playing around with the brand of my motivational blog and will continue to
tweak this until it feels right. I do know that I want to include lifestyle
goals, motivational elements, and holistic health in the new range of topics.
If there is something you’d like me to cover in <span style="margin: 0px;">2017,</span>
please feel free to add it in the comments below.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">All
that remains to be said is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Happy New Year!</i></b> Thank you SO much
for your support of this blog; for the comments, shares, and positive energy. I
can’t express how eternally grateful I am to all my readers. Please know that
everything I write about is in the hope it will help you, or someone you know,
and that will continue to be my mission statement for 2017.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Join
me on Monday 2<sup>nd</sup> January for my first post of 2017. I’m hoping to
publish a new post every <span style="margin: 0px;">Monday,</span> so it
makes it easy for you to find new content, and join in with the community. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">May
2017 be full of love, laughter, abundance, and happiness for you and your
family. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Blessings</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Shelley
xxx</span><br />
<br />
<b><i>Thanks for visiting my blog, I hope you enjoyed this post. Want more? Connect with me here: </i></b><em><b>Twitter </b><a class="mention mention-current-user" href="https://shelleywilsonauthor.wordpress.com/mentions/shelleywilson72/"><span class="mentions-prefix"><b>@</b></span><b>ShelleyWilson72</b></a><b>, </b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson"><b>Instagram</b></a><b> or check out my Facebook page</b><b> </b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog"><b>http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog</b></a><b>. You can also find me on </b><a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog/"><b>Pinterest</b></a><b> </b></em></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-8366945221770908252016-11-30T23:28:00.000-08:002016-12-27T23:49:51.158-08:00Using Numerology to Discover Your Life Purpose #BookReview <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaX3Vy4w2N4CPb6qW-kowjrlTfCXNMDvoKe6DPL0jcKG5YDyqMxHW1vpHxJcWtDrC7KU0jqOwFcOjc3cpy7l32cD7k4UuVMGUA1JS0girOUYiJPR9Dpb5g8K6-o71hVSRAIp5r-yH_eE/s1600/Using+Numerology+to+Find+Your+Life+Purpose.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaX3Vy4w2N4CPb6qW-kowjrlTfCXNMDvoKe6DPL0jcKG5YDyqMxHW1vpHxJcWtDrC7KU0jqOwFcOjc3cpy7l32cD7k4UuVMGUA1JS0girOUYiJPR9Dpb5g8K6-o71hVSRAIp5r-yH_eE/s320/Using+Numerology+to+Find+Your+Life+Purpose.png" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Numerology has always fascinated <span style="margin: 0px;">me,</span> and I’ve read as many books on the subject as I could find. I
worked out my life path number quite a few years ago (it’s a <span style="margin: 0px;">3</span> by the way) and found the description of a <span style="margin: 0px;">three-person</span> to be pretty spot on for me.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When Hay House brought out their ‘<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hay House Basics’</i> <span style="margin: 0px;">series,</span> I
jumped at the chance to add their version of Numerology to my growing
collection. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Numerology: Discover Your
Future, Life Purpose and Destiny from your Birth Date and Name</i> by </span><span style="color: #111111; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Michelle
Buchanan is just one book in <span style="margin: 0px;">a growing catalogue
of</span> back to basics mind, body, and spirit books ranging from Angels to the
Qabalah, and Astrology to Tarot.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The author, Michelle Buchanan is a numerologist and Certified
Law of Attraction Practitioner who studied numerology for more than 20 years.
She was formerly the spiritual <span style="margin: 0px;">counselor</span>
for Woman’s Day magazine in New Zealand, as well as the resident numerologist
for Television New Zealand’s Good Morning. Michelle has a numerology show,
Numerology Guidance, on Hay House Radio and provides personal readings,
workshops, and seminars to clients all over the world. She is also a talented
singer/songwriter and dedicated mother of two based in Auckland, New Zealand.
You can find Michelle on her website <a href="http://www.michellebuchanan.co.nz/">HERE</a>. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">With a difficult couple of years behind <span style="margin: 0px;">me,</span> <span style="margin: 0px;">I’m had</span>
periods of feeling out of sorts, and a bit lost. I am still trying to find my
way and recapture that passion and drive that has motivated me for so long. <span style="margin: 0px;">Using numerology to discover my life purpose and
destiny seemed like a good place to start!</span> Would it show me an
alternative route, or confirm that I’m still on my <span style="margin: 0px;">proper</span> path? Armed with a notebook to jot down the relevant dates
and corresponding numbers I began.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The opening section of the book gets you to work out the
following numbers:</span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Life Path – Who you are, life purpose, the <span style="margin: 0px;">path</span> you walk in this life.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Destiny – Who you are destined to become.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Soul – Who your <span style="margin: 0px;">soul</span> desires you to be so it feels content and complete.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Personality – How others perceive you.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Maturity – Your future potential, where your life is steering you from age 45+</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Birth Day – Additional personality traits, <span style="margin: 0px;">talents,</span> and abilities.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Current Name – The vibration you project to the world when you use this name.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Karmic Lessons</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I found the karmic lessons to be <span style="margin: 0px;">quite interesting</span>. By working out all your other <span style="margin: 0px;">numbers,</span> you see which, if any, number/s are <span style="margin: 0px;">missing,</span> and these are your karmic lessons. For
<span style="margin: 0px;">me,</span> it was two and <span style="margin: 0px;">four</span> which meant I needed to be more patient
and considerate, as well as being more disciplined and focused. There was more
to it than <span style="margin: 0px;">that,</span> but I could resonate
clearly with the messages.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The next sections <span style="margin: 0px;">are
split</span> into <span style="margin: 0px;">numbers,</span> and you can
read the corresponding unit that applies to you. For example, my maturity
number was 1, in the Number 1 chapter I looked up the section for <span style="margin: 0px;">maturity,</span> and it told me what it meant to have
this number – <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You are on course to become
an independent individual from the age of 45 (or may well already be well on
your way). </i>Yep, I’d say that was accurate!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The next section guides you to calculate your personal
year/month/day numbers. The personal year number is <span style="margin: 0px;">a great way to</span> discover the best times to take action, move house,
get married, study, or travel. The number changes every year so you would need
to work this out regularly to find out what your life lessons are for that
particular year. I worked out 2016 and 2017 to see if next year was going to be
an improvement, this is what I got:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">To work out the number you add up your <span style="margin: 0px;">birth day</span> and the current year, so mine would
be 24<sup>th</sup> May 2016 = 2 + 4 + 5 + 2 + 0 + 1 + 6 = 20 (2 + 0) = 2 (the
aim is to get down to a single figure unless you have 11, 22, 33 in your
numbers then there is a host of other rules).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">For 2017 it would be 2 + 4 + 5 + 2 + 0 + 1 + 7 = 21 = 2 +
1 = 3 (my 2017 number is 3)</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">2016 (I was a 2) – patience, relationships, balance,
emotions.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">2017 (I was a 3) – <span style="margin: 0px;">socialisation</span>,
self-expression, communication, creativity.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather"; font-size: 10.5pt; margin: 0px;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">At
a <span style="margin: 0px;">glance,</span> I can see that next year is
going to be a better one for me. It might not mean anything to you other than a
vague list, but it resonates exactly with everything I’ve gone through in 2016.
My illness and depression <span style="margin: 0px;">have</span> forced me
to slow down and be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">patient</i> with <span style="margin: 0px;">myself; it</span>’s stirred up a host of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">emotions </i>that I’ve struggled to deal
with at times <span style="margin: 0px;">(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">balance</i>),</span> and I’ve found out who my <span style="margin: 0px;">true</span> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">friends</i> are
throughout this experience. The number sections are very <span style="margin: 0px;">in-depth,</span> and I know I’ll be referring to them
often.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Along with your yearly numbers, you can also work out your
month numbers by adding your personal year number (2017 was a 3 for me) to the
month number (January = 1, February = 2, etc.) So, for me, January 2017 is 3 +
1 = a 4 month which means I need to work on building, planning, order, and
effort.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">At
the end of the <span style="margin: 0px;">book,</span> there is a section
dedicated to working out the numerology of your name. I loved this part of the
book and ended up working out the numbers for my three children, my cat, and my
book titles, which was incredibly <span style="margin: 0px;">interesting</span>.
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My
non-fiction book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00KAAUE88">How I Changed My Life in a Year</a></i> continues to sell well for me after nearly three years in the
bestseller charts. I calculated the number for this title, which came out at a <span style="margin: 0px;">6</span> and read the corresponding message.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Name
number 6 = promotes harmony, <span style="margin: 0px;">healing,</span> and
love. It’s the ideal number for anything <span style="margin: 0px;">creative,</span>
or that relates to teaching, coaching, and <span style="margin: 0px;">counseling</span>
<span style="margin: 0px;">endeavors</span>. <span style="margin: 0px;">An ideal</span> number for writers. <span style="margin: 0px;">This is</span>
also a good number for a home-based business. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Boom!
I didn’t calculate the number <span style="margin: 0px;">before</span>
publishing that <span style="margin: 0px;">book,</span> but it was
certainly spot on, imagine what you could achieve if you created a title to fit
<span style="margin: 0px;">a specific</span> number!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">For
regular readers of this <span style="margin: 0px;">blog,</span> you’ll
notice I’ve had a mini re-brand and changed the name from Resolution Challenge
to Motivate Me! I thought I’d check the number and guess what, it came out at a
<span style="margin: 0px;">6</span> too! The title of my next non-fiction
book (which will be out next year) came out as a 7 = promotes personal
development and higher learning. It’s the ideal number for anything educational
or spiritual. It’s a good number for anything that involves research, studying,
or strategizing. Boom – again! </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Using
this book and calculating my various numbers has been a great boost to my
spirits, confidence, and emotions. I’m feeling much more <span style="margin: 0px;">positive</span> about next year and excited about my
blog and writing.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Interestingly,
this book has also helped me to take a step back at home with my children. My
middle son is currently preparing to sit his final exams. He doesn’t know what
he wants to do going forward (A-Levels or BTEC) and <span style="margin: 0px;">it’s been</span> a bit stressful. I’m <span style="margin: 0px;">fairly</span>
creative, and so is my eldest son (graphic designer) and my youngest daughter (wants
to go into theatrical make-up). When I calculated my son’s life path number he
was a 1 – <span style="margin: 0px;">independent</span> individual, would
make an ideal business owner, manager, team leader, executive. When I stopped
trying to push my fluffy and creative brainwaves onto <span style="margin: 0px;">him,</span> he was able to tell me that he liked the idea of doing
business A-Level. Not my kind of thing, but then I’m an artistic <span style="margin: 0px;">3</span> who <span style="margin: 0px;">likes</span>
to entertain! We are all unique and need to find our <span style="margin: 0px;">proper</span> path, as a <span style="margin: 0px;">mum</span> it can
be hard to support your children and not guide, or push them down the wrong
track. Stress levels have now <span style="margin: 0px;">reduced,</span>
and my son has some idea of what he’s aiming for and appears to be much happier
about it. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Thanks
to Hay House and Michelle for such a great book. Even if you aren’t into
numerology in a big way, this book is worth reading purely for the
entertainment value. I’d highly recommend it.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">BUY a copy from <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0146KUVZ8">Amazon UK</a> or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0146KUVZ8">Amazon US</a></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssw8DUzq3IrVY4QWLMP4rVocPx-1nVqjlbF-ik0FKN-5NmZtFSSlQfzH9bWe2EZhBTvcfzAW_i8QLZ1E7zky8wE0RgsmGqlcgoX9uQcUyGSX_87NpdjTCQrP1VsKBMVmTtl_SmYNEWxg/s1600/Numerology.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjssw8DUzq3IrVY4QWLMP4rVocPx-1nVqjlbF-ik0FKN-5NmZtFSSlQfzH9bWe2EZhBTvcfzAW_i8QLZ1E7zky8wE0RgsmGqlcgoX9uQcUyGSX_87NpdjTCQrP1VsKBMVmTtl_SmYNEWxg/s320/Numerology.png" width="211" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><b>Blurb:</b></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Discover the fascinating metaphysical system of
numerology, and how it can support you to understand yourself better and make
the right choices for you in every area of your life.</span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">This book explores:</span></i></div>
<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><i>how numerology can help you</i></span></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><i>how to read a chart</i></span></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px;"><i>your personality numbers - your Life Path,
Destiny, Soul and Birth Day numbers - and what they all mean!</i></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><i>your forecasting numbers and how you can use
them to look at the year ahead and the energies it holds for you</i></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 11px;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">...</span></i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">and much
more!</span></i></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-29056527302011159912016-11-22T23:37:00.000-08:002016-12-27T23:49:56.307-08:00Top 10 Tips to Get Motivated for Christmas<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjYlkVE0PPruDx77c1BhO1T7KrtK0T4XycAb4tfPZmaZwp6e0Lr4yr-GV1SOYzTEiJxgd_xVoUXHyufJ14TOQXlmxeaFWdzAXgwkaYFV7ykDWT5Oy_Jd5tTrZSy4EWZyE9e4WXkvfITE/s1600/Top+10+Tips+to+Get+Motivated+For+Christmas.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjYlkVE0PPruDx77c1BhO1T7KrtK0T4XycAb4tfPZmaZwp6e0Lr4yr-GV1SOYzTEiJxgd_xVoUXHyufJ14TOQXlmxeaFWdzAXgwkaYFV7ykDWT5Oy_Jd5tTrZSy4EWZyE9e4WXkvfITE/s400/Top+10+Tips+to+Get+Motivated+For+Christmas.png" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
typing up this post as the rain hammers against the window. My cat is curled up
in my ‘in’ <span style="margin: 0px;">tray,</span> and I’ve accumulated
several empty mugs as I make coffee after coffee in a bid to stay warm.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Yesterday,
I <span style="margin: 0px;">realised</span> we only have a few weeks until
<span style="margin: 0px;">Christmas,</span> and I haven’t even started to
think about buying gifts, sending cards, or arranging various seasonal events.
My regular gym sessions have also dwindled to an ‘hmm, I’ll go <span style="margin: 0px;">tomorrow,'</span> and my healthy eating regime now
involves far too many Jaffa cakes (they’re orange, so technically they count as
your five a day, don’t they?).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When
it’s cold and wet, our motivation to get even the most basic tasks done isn’t as powerful
as it was in the warmer months. Looking out of the window this morning
I knew I’d be staying in the comfort of my writing cave for the day. <span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">However,
Christmas <span style="margin: 0px;">looms,</span> and if I want to prepare
that delicious turkey dinner, eat copious amounts of mince pies, and delight my
family with thoughtful <span style="margin: 0px;">gifts,</span> then I need
to get <span style="margin: 0px;">organised</span>. So, how am I going to
do it when my motivation has <span style="margin: 0px;">shrivelled</span> up
in the cold?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
got a few tips to help motivate you at this time of year:</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Make
your <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> advent calendar, crackers, or festive
wreath to get you in the mood. I recently found a beautiful blog where the
author, Suzy, shares crafty, DIY projects for you to try throughout the year.
She posted her DIY Bauble Wreath last <span style="margin: 0px;">week,</span>
and you can read all about it <a href="http://suzyhomemaker.co.uk/diy-bauble-wreath/">HERE</a>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Dedicate
one weekend/week in December to watch as many Christmas movies as you can –
call it the ‘Christmas Family Film Festival!’ Grab a bag of popcorn and snuggle
down for a movie bonanza. You could even draw up a voting sheet and announce
the winning film at the end.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">See
if your local school/community centre are holding a carol service and pop along
for a sing-a-long.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Most
high streets have now switched on their Christmas lights. Wrap up warm and go
for a walk through your local town. Don’t go shopping, just enjoy the lights,
the crisp air, and maybe grab a cinnamon latte from the local coffee shop as
you go. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Hand
deliver as many of your Christmas cards as possible and boost your festive
fitness!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">6.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Book
tickets to the pantomime. Take the family for a fun night out and support your
local amateur dramatic society. Nothing says Christmas like shouting ‘he’s
behind you’ at the top of your lungs in a packed <span style="margin: 0px;">theatre</span>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">7.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you have younger <span style="margin: 0px;">children</span> or
grandchildren, then it might be time to make room for any new toys by de-cluttering
the old. Fill a shoe box with <span style="margin: 0px;">good</span>
quality toys and books and donate them to charity. The <a href="http://www.msrm.org.uk/liab.html">Mustard Seed Relief Mission</a> accept donations which they send out to 40,000 <span style="margin: 0px;">underprivileged</span> children in Eastern Europe every year.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">8.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Most
towns now host a Christmas market of some description. Embrace the festive
season with a mug of Gluhwein or a steaming hot chocolate with whipped cream.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">9.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you need a cheap and cheerful way to motivate yourself into feeling <span style="margin: 0px;">festive,</span> then take a trip to your local garden <span style="margin: 0px;">centre</span>. Most of them have a winter wonderland
of Christmas decorations and gift ideas. Plus, there could be the <span style="margin: 0px;">bonus</span> of spotting Santa!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">10.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Grab a notebook
and get list writing! My <span style="margin: 0px;">favourite</span> way to
stay <span style="margin: 0px;">organised</span> at any time of year is to
write down everything I need to do and then take great pleasure in ticking it
off when <span style="margin: 0px;">it’s done</span>. You can dedicate one
page for each of the following:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 96px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Food
to buy (jot down all the food you’ll need that isn’t on your usual ‘big shop’).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 96px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Recipes
to cook (make a note of any special recipes you want to try, including the
website/magazine/book you’ve seen it in).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 96px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Cards
to send (write a list of who you regularly send cards to, add a couple of
columns with ‘Sent’ and ‘Received’ so you can keep track of who keeps in
touch).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 96px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Presents
to buy (I write down what I want to get my kids, family, friends and then add a
<span style="margin: 0px;">tick</span> with a <span style="margin: 0px;">green</span> pen when <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>’ve bought it
and <span style="margin: 0px;">a tick</span> with a red pen when I’ve
wrapped it).</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">There’s
still time to pull an <span style="margin: 0px;">organisational</span>
strategy out of the bag, or should that be <span style="margin: 0px;">‘sack,'</span>
and enjoy the build up to the festive season. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do you have a top tip you can share with us for keeping motivated at
this time of year, or perhaps you’ve already finished your shopping, got
everything wrapped, and can sit back and <span style="margin: 0px;">relax?</span>
Whatever your situation, I’d love to hear about <span style="margin: 0px;">it,</span>
so please leave a comment in the box below.</b></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-69510545504914602272016-11-14T00:03:00.000-08:002016-11-21T02:58:30.393-08:00Top 5 Tips for Small Business Networking<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrV_pwFH3hvdkGMfm5cwC4cSR7_KP9VwMi5ONCqljxcI8IzDZI7CIpbF6SKiPttOBjJ2mhsq0VcQgxN2Y47wMij7EDNT_J_n2dFDaCwUAKVPi4hxc_ODPDZnGFWdwgTHW5TAu38hSOFMs/s1600/Top+5+Tips+for+Small+Business+Networking.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrV_pwFH3hvdkGMfm5cwC4cSR7_KP9VwMi5ONCqljxcI8IzDZI7CIpbF6SKiPttOBjJ2mhsq0VcQgxN2Y47wMij7EDNT_J_n2dFDaCwUAKVPi4hxc_ODPDZnGFWdwgTHW5TAu38hSOFMs/s320/Top+5+Tips+for+Small+Business+Networking.png" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Networking
is a relatively new thing for me. When I ran my holistic health <span style="margin: 0px;">business,</span> I worked five days and two evenings a
week, so any spare time <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span> had <span style="margin: 0px;">I divided</span> between family, friends, and my
writing. Attending any of the networking groups in my local area was an
impossibility. Once I closed that business and focused on my books and blog <span style="margin: 0px;">content,</span> I discovered a necessity to get out
from the home office and speak to another human being.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Working
from home, in any capacity, has a host of benefits, from holding a conference
call in your <span style="margin: 0px;">pyjamas</span>, to saving hours on
a long commute. Many <span style="margin: 0px;">mums</span> are starting
small businesses from their kitchen table to enable them to keep childcare
costs to a <span style="margin: 0px;">minimum</span> and reap the advantages
of being around for their child’s early years.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">With
the influx of mumpreneurs, the need for <span style="margin: 0px;">friendly</span>
and supportive networking groups is more important than ever. Women empower <span style="margin: 0px;">women; it</span>’s a beautiful thing to witness and an
even more satisfying thing to do, or indeed, receive.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
groups I attend <span style="margin: 0px;">primarily are targeted</span>
</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">for women in my local area. There are numerous networking meetings that tailor
for specific industries, such as coaching, design, <span style="margin: 0px;">sales,</span> and marketing, but for me, I needed to find a group that contained
my target audience. As an author of self-help and personal development books
aimed at women aged 30+ these smaller groups met with my personal, professional,
and marketing needs. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
I also write this motivational blog, it was essential that I mix with the women
I hope to help. As I evolve my blog into a lifestyle/goal setting/<span style="margin: 0px;">organisational</span> platform to help my audience be
the best they can be, motivate themselves, and achieve great success, I needed <span style="margin: 0px;">first of all to find these ladies</span>, and then
discover how I could assist them with appropriate content and products. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Connecting online is vital in today’s society as we are all
so busy. Being able to stay in touch with the click of a mouse saves valuable
time and also keeps us grounded in real life.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> I’m a member of quite a few
Facebook groups with a variety of themes, from book reviewers, bloggers, and
authors, to wellbeing and health pages. I’ve also made some firm friends via
these groups and even met up in person with several of the members. However,
the online world can be a lonely <span style="margin: 0px;">one,</span> and
the positive benefits of face-to-face interaction <span style="margin: 0px;">are</span> well documented. Maintaining a mix of local networking groups
held in a <span style="margin: 0px;">favourite</span> café, with social
media groups can provide the small business owner with sufficient support.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Embracing
everything your networking group has to offer is fundamental to your growth as
a business. Not only are you making valuable contacts, but you are also creating
lasting bonds with women who understand your anxieties, nerves, and your
achievements. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Empowering
your fellow small business owner will not only help advance them, but it will
have a knock-on effect for your wellbeing; mentally, professionally, and
spiritually. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Explore
all avenues in your area that offer networking opportunities and use my top 5
tips as a guide for choosing the right group for you.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">1.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Most
groups will have a Facebook <span style="margin: 0px;">page</span> or a
website. Take a few minutes to <span style="margin: 0px;">familiarise</span>
yourself with the <span style="margin: 0px;">setup</span> and look at the
number of members who attend the meetings. If the group only attracts one or
two people to their <span style="margin: 0px;">meetups</span> every <span style="margin: 0px;">month,</span> then it might be worth looking
elsewhere. You want a networking session with the potential to interact with
plenty of <span style="margin: 0px;">people</span>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">2.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Prepare
any flyers/business cards/products for your business and take these with you.
At all good group <span style="margin: 0px;">sessions,</span> you will have
the opportunity to introduce yourself, talk briefly about your business, and
give out your literature to any interested parties.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">3.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Be
supportive of one another. You may attend a networking group where the majority
of members deliver the same, or similar, products. You might discover that the
lady sitting next to you <span style="margin: 0px;">manufactures</span> <span style="margin: 0px;">similar</span> merchandise to you. Don’t think of this
person as a competitor – you will have separate customers, and probably deliver
to different <span style="margin: 0px;">areas. However</span>, the opportunity
to collaborate can provide <span style="margin: 0px;">huge</span> benefits
for you both. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">4.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Engage
with each other once the meeting has ended. It’s a great way to spend a couple
of hours on a rainy Monday morning, but chatting about business over a latte
doesn’t end there. Exchange details, like each other’s Facebook pages, connect
on Twitter or Instagram. Keep the lines of communication open and continue to interact
in the future. Some of my best friends <span style="margin: 0px;">were made</span>
at networking events. By engaging on their pages, supporting their business,
and promoting their services to your audience, you might be able to help boost
their profile and sales, and <span style="margin: 0px;">in turn,</span>
they will reciprocate.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">5.<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Occasionally,
you’ll find a networking group who offer a bit more. They may have a member’s <span style="margin: 0px;">club</span> or a closed group <span style="margin: 0px;">on</span> Facebook where they share additional content. Look into this opportunity
and join in when or where appropriate. There is <span style="margin: 0px;">normally</span>
an annual <span style="margin: 0px;">fee,</span> but this tends to be
anywhere between £50/£100 a year. The group leader will be able to tell you
what benefits you get for your money, so don’t be afraid to ask. The extra
benefits might be just what your small business needs to advance and grow.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
best advice I can give you is to enjoy yourself. Meeting other small business
owners is a delight as you have so much in common. It doesn’t matter what you
sell, the marketing plans, sales techniques, and promotional aspects of your
business are the same. Exchanging ideas, brainstorming, and obtaining advice <span style="margin: 0px;">are</span> what networking groups are all about, so
embrace it.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I hope you’ve
enjoyed this post. Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any
other tips that would benefit a small business owner looking to network.</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If you want to find out more about me, my blog, or
my <span style="margin: 0px;">books,</span> then you can connect with me on
<a href="http://www.twitter.com/ShelleyWilson72">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MotivateMeBlog">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson">Instagram</a>, or find me on <a href="http://uk.pinterest.com/MotivateMeBlog">Pinterest</a>. </span></i></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-75514321194767493332016-11-06T23:48:00.000-08:002017-04-18T04:31:58.229-07:00Re-Balance Your Life by Looking Back #reflection<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It's
been a hectic week at Resolution Challenge HQ. As many of you know, the month
of November is when I take part in the annual NaNoWriMo contest - National
Novel Writing Month. <span style="margin: 0px;">This is</span> my fourth
year of writing a 50,000 word novel in 30 days and so far (6 days in) I'm at
just over 13,000 words. It's shaping up to be a good project, and one I hope to
share with you all next year once the edits <span style="margin: 0px;">are
done.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Yh7UGbiA93lm4Qxlr5ZjAERG_yrY0J1cWAgSZsrbRClahpY-34vQ7xuYcqf1ZzH_k0VBAe59wXkU-dqW9cGetB7hsDWdAFQSc4QyYHJvIlWG39VATBvBD3WHyGkccPwA4FuajeK9d0Y/s1600/Motivate+Me+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Yh7UGbiA93lm4Qxlr5ZjAERG_yrY0J1cWAgSZsrbRClahpY-34vQ7xuYcqf1ZzH_k0VBAe59wXkU-dqW9cGetB7hsDWdAFQSc4QyYHJvIlWG39VATBvBD3WHyGkccPwA4FuajeK9d0Y/s200/Motivate+Me+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm delighted to have found my mojo again for writing motivational non-fiction,
and this is evident in the exciting projects I've got coming up. My mind is
bubbling over with <span style="margin: 0px;">ideas,</span> and I’m
struggling to get them all written down before my batty brain forgets them.
There are several projects in the developmental stages and one in the OMG this
might <span style="margin: 0px;">actually</span> happen phase! I’ll keep
you posted.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
nice to be feeling like my old self again. It’s been a main aim of mine for a
while now, to try and </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">reclaim my sanity and rebuild my body, mind, and soul. I've
had various treatments to try and help with this, such as Lava shell massage,
reflexology, Reiki, and EMMETT, but for the past few <span style="margin: 0px;">months,</span> I've been having acupuncture. This incredible therapy is
helping me deal with my continuous symptoms and the emotional aspect of
handling the sudden changes in my circumstances. Dealing with our issues on an
emotional, physical, and spiritual level is important to re-balance our lives,
and I hope by continuing with the acupuncture, I will be able to rebuild my
body and mind.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Together
with the physical therapies, I have also been working on several areas of my
life using a variety of coaching tools, and have found it to be an incredibly
helpful exercise. Always one to share my experiences, I thought I'd include a
simple exercise for you to try and hope it resonates with your <span style="margin: 0px;">own</span> journey.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br />
<u>Looking Back</u>: </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
hadn't fully appreciated the need to look back over the past few
months when paving the way for a brighter future. Looking back is
something I try to avoid, after all, mindfulness teaches us to live in the now,
doesn't it? However, reflecting on past failures and achievements can teach us
so much about the direction we want to go in.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br />
Think back over the past ten months.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">What
made you smile? </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">What
made you sad? </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Jot
your answers down in your journal or notebook. Is there anything you can
learn about the goals you haven't yet achieved, or perhaps how <span style="margin: 0px;">you</span> could celebrate if you managed
to complete a project ahead of schedule?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br />
Spend an hour reflecting on the months that have gone by and ask
yourself what you would change, if anything. Can you do something
different in the remaining two months to end 2016 on a high?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">For
me, the end of this year is all about embracing new opportunities and moving
forward with determination and passion. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
visited the Mind, Body, Spirit Wellbeing Festival at the NEC, Birmingham this
week. It was <span style="margin: 0px;">a fabulous</span> exhibition. There
were some incredible stallholders selling books, crystals, and other
merchandise, together with a range of workshops and live talks on the main
stage. I took part in <span style="margin: 0px;">a beautiful</span> sound
healing session in a Yurt with Anne Malone and had <span style="margin: 0px;">an excellent</span> tarot reading with a beautiful soul called Ophelia.
Her reading gave me hope and the confidence to look back over the past year to
learn the powerful lessons my highs and lows have taught me.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div>
<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kgWi9hrJa2gHVLhmGMg5FlkGREkjc0JxhwMF4lzUf8SQfgsojY9KVDhDtyl_1ehdXsDKoaoACK89sEYfVgjjqAzysl9qG7pNQb8HN9U9oOynYUQXy34NVsGOSTgcVtghNUvie7AcCDU/s200/14907162_1095470263884253_6761038181222118165_n.jpg" width="150" /></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Anne Malone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6x-hBUxTFmvPAghvIsfcNDa47XvAqZ5tM4uppX3gYgxhXy6i9ek22a6JaCPhKvr7Pn7QveW_ikE000xI8vwS2PuqLqtmiYMOW32PmwRdtPCQ5BA5p8LLheFBSdRN7aCVweZ2iWSsaos/s1600/14955868_10154519990960056_8805022657080766127_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6x-hBUxTFmvPAghvIsfcNDa47XvAqZ5tM4uppX3gYgxhXy6i9ek22a6JaCPhKvr7Pn7QveW_ikE000xI8vwS2PuqLqtmiYMOW32PmwRdtPCQ5BA5p8LLheFBSdRN7aCVweZ2iWSsaos/s200/14955868_10154519990960056_8805022657080766127_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sound Healing Yurt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">
</span>
<div class="separator" style="margin: 0px;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
no longer afraid of looking back and reflecting on the past. It has helped me work
out what wasn’t working, who was draining my energy, and how I plan to achieve
success in the coming year.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><b>Try
it for yourself and see what you can learn from a spot of reflection.</b></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EsxsNcqJ3YS2L7_KyS1PJK-czi2tR0FV6YhENgBX1m_yr8td3YaWgohEkEUNtjhDWyD6E-R2wwZzc-w0OZouluFlfiIeuAEYfRkOntpm4zJLQfqCMWnguZmKA-LEDoPx7eNVgGhP5CE/s1600/14947835_907528182713839_80729680038112103_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-EsxsNcqJ3YS2L7_KyS1PJK-czi2tR0FV6YhENgBX1m_yr8td3YaWgohEkEUNtjhDWyD6E-R2wwZzc-w0OZouluFlfiIeuAEYfRkOntpm4zJLQfqCMWnguZmKA-LEDoPx7eNVgGhP5CE/s200/14947835_907528182713839_80729680038112103_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
Getting my wings!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><b><br /></b>
<b><u>Connect with me</u>:</b><br />
Twitter: <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ShelleyWilson72">@ShelleyWilson72</a><br />
Instagram: <a href="http://www.instagram.com/authorslwilson">@authorslwilson</a> <br />
Facebook: <a href="http://facebook.com/ResolutionChallenge">Facebook.com/ResolutionChallenge</a><br />
<b>Sign up for my newsletter </b><a href="http://shelleywilsonauthor.homestead.com/newsletter_signup.html">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-29672395920776564902016-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:002016-11-06T23:48:48.236-08:00What Does Happiness Mean To You? #MondayBlogs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4vh_NeY8jDTQcJZqI_Sgxhj91Dl5FdfKGWZQh99Ck7o6pDYObTNFqnWvsTyOnpWcm-UHmeTMTewG-hHtLZFsoyYKW8hTsxIitGsEhjiUJLg6UMrQbQcDmWh7KJljb1ByLwZ_e0PNDBA/s1600/happiness-is.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4vh_NeY8jDTQcJZqI_Sgxhj91Dl5FdfKGWZQh99Ck7o6pDYObTNFqnWvsTyOnpWcm-UHmeTMTewG-hHtLZFsoyYKW8hTsxIitGsEhjiUJLg6UMrQbQcDmWh7KJljb1ByLwZ_e0PNDBA/s320/happiness-is.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv4vh_NeY8jDTQcJZqI_Sgxhj91Dl5FdfKGWZQh99Ck7o6pDYObTNFqnWvsTyOnpWcm-UHmeTMTewG-hHtLZFsoyYKW8hTsxIitGsEhjiUJLg6UMrQbQcDmWh7KJljb1ByLwZ_e0PNDBA/s1600/happiness-is.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
was invited to do a talk for a motivational group recently on the theme of
‘Heaven on Earth.' I spent a long time thinking about what that meant to me.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Eventually,
I decided that happiness was the one thing that gave me contentment. But
sometimes we think that happiness is out of our reach – it’s something to work
towards – a goal if you like.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When
I’m at home, and I talk about setting goals, I can see my kid’s eyes begin to
glaze over. ‘Oh god, she's off on one of her hippie trips again!’</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">That’s
okay; they’re young. Goals aren’t as important to them. For them, happiness is
already a huge part of their life; they don’t need to think about setting goals
to achieve it.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’d
somehow lost that innocence. Life has been tough over the years and so I truly
believed that happiness was an external element – something <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">other</i> people enjoyed. What I discovered
was the more I concentrated on finding happiness, the more confused I became.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
opted to set myself a few goals in a bid to find this elusive happiness. I
decided to shake up my life a little and see what happened.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">This
was the driving force behind my fifty-two challenges in twelve months, which
eventually became my bestselling book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How
I Changed My Life in a Year</i>. Part of the reason behind this venture was the
need to show myself that if you believe in yourself enough, you can achieve
anything. But, I was also searching for some happiness in my life.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Starting
on that journey changed everything. I’d set my goals, some small, some big, and
I knew that I needed to be accountable for my actions, which is where this blog
came in. Every challenge, every failure, every success was published and shared
with the public.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My
book was published in 2014, and I still receive messages on a daily basis from
women who feel motivated to challenge themselves; to grasp a new opportunity
with both hands and own it.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">‘We all
believed, so we all achieved.'</span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It
was as my book climbed the bestseller list that I was hit with a profound
understanding. Happiness filled my life on a daily basis, from the pride I saw
in my children’s eyes, to the emails I received from readers, and the
continuing success of my blog.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It
finally slid into place for me. Happiness was never something to be obtained.
By searching for it, I came to realise that it was already inside me. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">We
need to nourish ourselves during our time here on Earth. Life is too short to
waste it searching – it’s time to live, to believe, and to achieve our wildest
dreams. Heaven on Earth is attainable for each and every one of us – we just
have to open our hearts to new opportunities.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you’re still in doubt, then let me guide you to one of my popular blog
posts – <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/seize-life-and-live-it-now-ribbon-of.html">The Ribbon of Life</a>. If this simple, short exercise doesn’t show you
have important it is to nurture yourself and invest time in your own personal
development and spirituality then I don’t know what will.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Here's an overview of my ribbon of life exercise:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33ZAZVEHuIx8M6LKJLACkEqDSYHg2V07EjcoZLW6YeIqhztimxsVZn5HOYJ2NaAX-ljdUmIhNAdwOun4MbV3IS3ewxgkB3L8_rTXqmzVgkpjqGdpi5IO5nXBazmxhoU6a34GAioR2f_k/s1600/Ribbon+of+Life.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Take a piece of ribbon 100cm in length (If I look back over my family line, the female Wilson's tend to live until we're about 90 years old) - I'll cut off 10cm so my starting ribbon is 90cm. You can do the same or choose another age that represents you.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I'm 44 years old (cut off 44 cm)</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I love my bed and over a lifetime will probably sleep for 25 years (cut off 25 cm)</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If I work until I'm 65 then that's another 10 years of my life (cut off 10 cm)</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I'll spend about 2 years cooking and 3 years eating (cut off 5 cm)</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33ZAZVEHuIx8M6LKJLACkEqDSYHg2V07EjcoZLW6YeIqhztimxsVZn5HOYJ2NaAX-ljdUmIhNAdwOun4MbV3IS3ewxgkB3L8_rTXqmzVgkpjqGdpi5IO5nXBazmxhoU6a34GAioR2f_k/s1600/Ribbon+of+Life.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33ZAZVEHuIx8M6LKJLACkEqDSYHg2V07EjcoZLW6YeIqhztimxsVZn5HOYJ2NaAX-ljdUmIhNAdwOun4MbV3IS3ewxgkB3L8_rTXqmzVgkpjqGdpi5IO5nXBazmxhoU6a34GAioR2f_k/s200/Ribbon+of+Life.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Forgetting the number of years I've spent brushing my teeth, going on holiday, or even reading a book, I've got 6 cm left = 6 years to achieve everything I've ever dreamt about.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Realising
that happiness comes from within opened my eyes to a new life. I no longer
watch <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Friends</i> re-runs, and I don’t waste
time on negative influences, instead, I share every moment I can with my
children before they grow up and begin their own adventures.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
you go about your day, I want you to think about what you believe Heaven on
Earth is for you, and more importantly, what happiness means to you.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33ZAZVEHuIx8M6LKJLACkEqDSYHg2V07EjcoZLW6YeIqhztimxsVZn5HOYJ2NaAX-ljdUmIhNAdwOun4MbV3IS3ewxgkB3L8_rTXqmzVgkpjqGdpi5IO5nXBazmxhoU6a34GAioR2f_k/s1600/Ribbon+of+Life.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-67911543026410638202016-10-19T00:00:00.000-07:002016-11-06T23:48:59.080-08:00Mindfulness in 3 Easy Steps #wwwBlogs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9ujOfM5-FOy6Q2xnNeK9R8dG7SWgOCCuWtF1Lo19V4SUf3-lmSx7vWWycQ5TdfaZiir4HYU6LPATmo3tC74y85BlDe2rUTX9HqtUmrG5VfGeksek4h9S0SD1Q37ZjZ5qwxniX4LFUnA/s1600/boat-dock-windermere-lake-engl-248732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9ujOfM5-FOy6Q2xnNeK9R8dG7SWgOCCuWtF1Lo19V4SUf3-lmSx7vWWycQ5TdfaZiir4HYU6LPATmo3tC74y85BlDe2rUTX9HqtUmrG5VfGeksek4h9S0SD1Q37ZjZ5qwxniX4LFUnA/s200/boat-dock-windermere-lake-engl-248732.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">When
I tell people how much I enjoy <span style="margin: 0px;">mindfulness,</span>
<span style="margin: 0px;">I am often met</span> with a slight resistance.
Occasionally, people will be <span style="margin: 0px;">positive</span>
about the benefits of mindfulness in their <span style="margin: 0px;">lives.
However</span>, far too many people believe it to be too difficult, or worse, <span style="margin: 0px;">time-consuming</span>.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
can’t <span style="margin: 0px;">emphasis</span> enough the importance of
being in the moment. That means, not stressing about the past, or worrying
about what’s in the future. Anxiety increases when we live in a constant turmoil
of ‘why did I say that last week?’ or ‘will I be able to make that speech next
month?’</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Being
mindful helps us in so many ways:</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Helps us relax</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Our sleep improves</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">We feel more positive</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Creativity increases</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">We lose (or maintain) weight</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
not hard to fit a spot of mindfulness into your life. In fact, you probably do
it without realising.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Breathing</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">We
all do <span style="margin: 0px;">this,</span> don’t we! You can be mindful
<span style="margin: 0px;">of</span> your breathing in so many <span style="margin: 0px;">normal</span> circumstances, such as when you’re sat
at your <span style="margin: 0px;">desk</span> or stuck in traffic. Try
focusing on your breathing a bit more.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Concentrate
on your breathing. Notice the thoughts bubbling up but don’t engage in them.
Don’t analyse these <span style="margin: 0px;">thoughts</span>, just <span style="margin: 0px;">notice</span> them and then return to concentrating on
your breathing. <span style="margin: 0px;">When I first started doing this exercise,
I would quickly slip into my ‘sausage and mash’ moments. That’s the default
setting when we stop what we’re doing and sit quietly and our brain starts the
inner monologue of ‘what shall I do for tea?’ or ‘did I leave the iron on?’.</span>
With <span style="margin: 0px;">practice,</span> you can enjoy longer
periods of quiet as the sausage and mash moments diminish.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Breathe
in slowly and deeply, letting your lungs expand and contract. Notice your environment
– the seat you’re in, the smells around you, etc. Do this for about 5 <span style="margin: 0px;">minutes,</span> and you’ll feel calmer, more grounded,
and clearer.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Eating.</span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Again,
this is something we all do, <span style="margin: 0px;">normally</span>
three times a day. That’s three opportunities to be mindful without having to
find extra time in your busy routine.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Try
to limit the external distractions when you eat; turn off the television, the
radio, and leave the magazines alone.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Take
your time over the meal you’ve prepared. Savour the <span style="margin: 0px;">smell</span> and the colours. Chew each mouthful at least 8-9 times.
Notice the <span style="margin: 0px;">flavours</span> and the texture. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Walking</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
all too easy to jump in the car to get where we want to go, and I understand that.
We lead busy lives and can’t always fit in a brisk walk before work, or a jog
around the park in our lunch break. However, we can adapt our usual routines
and enable us to experience a walking mindfulness exercise.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
used to teach my meditation class this <span style="margin: 0px;">exercise,</span>
and they found it to be very useful – in fact, several of my students adapted
it for insomnia with great results!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Next
time you go to the supermarket, park the furthest point from the door. As you
walk across the car park, count your steps. Count 1 – 5, then start again only
adding an extra number each time until you get up to 10. Like this:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One,
Two, Three, Four, Five</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One,
Two, Three, Four, Five, Six</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One,
Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">All
the way up to </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">One,
Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, Ten</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Then
start over and count one to five again.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">My
mind used to wander all the time when I first started doing <span style="margin: 0px;">this,</span> and I’d suddenly count fifteen before I
realised I’d lost it. I’d <span style="margin: 0px;">simply</span> start
over.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you can park a decent distance from your office <span style="margin: 0px;">building,</span>
then it’s a great exercise to diffuse any tension stored up from a day at your
desk. By the time you reach your car after <span style="margin: 0px;">work,</span>
you should feel much calmer.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">That’s
only three simple exercises to help you fit a spot of mindfulness into your
day. Give it a try and see how much calmer you feel after just a few days.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Do you have a
top tip on mindfulness? Share it in the comments below and help others to find
some peace and balance.</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgikyCn9LDGTaq79hf4XfF3QxJPZ6u3fEsAZl86ZozGOal3c19uGTIICCy947wTXHMH8yFFzWxb-IF6qaLFP6fD1aCYyi3bFFPBA1wc8nfNT804pAW45IWkY5Tvj2OrLvSJAl4zho9mtxM/s1600/imgres.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgikyCn9LDGTaq79hf4XfF3QxJPZ6u3fEsAZl86ZozGOal3c19uGTIICCy947wTXHMH8yFFzWxb-IF6qaLFP6fD1aCYyi3bFFPBA1wc8nfNT804pAW45IWkY5Tvj2OrLvSJAl4zho9mtxM/s1600/imgres.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-51282339494454847282016-09-22T03:06:00.001-07:002016-10-17T03:43:56.655-07:00Taking Small Steps Towards Better Health #ThursdayThoughts<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LQXov1X6fY8S_mNB608Fbn_xXW1dnJRNlGnQwiz-Us6GcV7_HX_AJJa8V6YN-q5wgEDA7tK0w4b421hNDBemXzT1VtsNlyuemDvup8Ue8TCk96OjxfoPtiJwXISP_jjJ6eZBdYs7mMM/s1600/IMG_4362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9LQXov1X6fY8S_mNB608Fbn_xXW1dnJRNlGnQwiz-Us6GcV7_HX_AJJa8V6YN-q5wgEDA7tK0w4b421hNDBemXzT1VtsNlyuemDvup8Ue8TCk96OjxfoPtiJwXISP_jjJ6eZBdYs7mMM/s200/IMG_4362.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you follow my <span style="margin: 0px;">blog,</span> then you’ll be aware
that I’ve struggled with my health over the past couple of years. I <span style="margin: 0px;">remain</span> undiagnosed and, unfortunately, I still <span style="margin: 0px;">suffer from</span> symptoms and pain. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
safe to say that I <span style="margin: 0px;">sulked</span> – for a long
time – and still have bouts of the blues over this issue, however, as September
arrived, I was filled with an overwhelming desire to feel better – even if it
was just a little bit.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
you all know, I do love a challenge and what better way to push myself than to
sign up for the 90 Day Shape Shift Sustain plan (yes, 90 DAYS!!) developed by
the hottie, Joe Wicks, aka <a href="http://www.thebodycoach.co.uk/">The Body Coach</a>.</span></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">To
say this training/nutrition regime is hard work would be an
understatement. I’m two weeks into the <span style="margin: 0px;">plan,</span>
and although I’m still struggling with my energy levels, I’ve just managed to
run for ten minutes on the treadmill. <span style="margin: 0px;">It sounds</span>
like nothing doesn’t it, but when I think that <span style="margin: 0px;">for
the past two years</span> I’ve struggled to walk for more than five minutes
without having to rest then it’s a massive achievement.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
must have looked slightly demented at the gym as I was sweating like <span style="margin: 0px;">I</span>'d run a marathon, and yet I couldn’t stop
myself from grinning ear to ear.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcqejSMg6SmK4CWarvEzu5ezfSb622ZHAGE3n_hjvAEMA0VZ4F4yc4vjt7iUUIyPDHqxbGRxxC_IX6Yh7sHbFTO6YE2mTBWs-GeTEMeugLDSfEU2rEBJhml_7SgOIv6kYl_7MUXLfs3A/s1600/IMG_4556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcqejSMg6SmK4CWarvEzu5ezfSb622ZHAGE3n_hjvAEMA0VZ4F4yc4vjt7iUUIyPDHqxbGRxxC_IX6Yh7sHbFTO6YE2mTBWs-GeTEMeugLDSfEU2rEBJhml_7SgOIv6kYl_7MUXLfs3A/s200/IMG_4556.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
my legs were burning, my lungs protesting, and my hair frizzing up under the
pressure, all I could think about was getting home and adding this achievement to
my ‘Happiness Jar’.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
blogged about embracing a good day and being grateful last year<span style="margin: 0px;">; you</span>
can read that post <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/positive-thinking-series-how-to-have.html">HERE</a>. I’m glad to say, I’ve continued adding everything I've enjoyed/achieved/embraced over the past eight months into my jar, and I can’t wait
to open it on New Year’s Eve to remind myself what a fabulous year I’ve had. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It
doesn’t matter how big or small our achievements <span style="margin: 0px;">are; they</span> are worth recognising and remembering.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’ve
got 79 days left - wish me luck x</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-4025868241341800392016-09-11T23:40:00.000-07:002016-10-18T05:14:17.097-07:00Believe to Achieve at the Wellbeing Festival, Birmingham #MondayBlogs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9r7m7iUuuvAEmWaV2Cszq3m3GBgYcnuUb-nosZRR64L9xqAPa4pRlDNbhWLaaNzhtEpu991Yix1secaAoT6E_Qx73EJbkRVrCSeIOLkiL8FDnKB2aayZ3u7HjaDUOrJiqXZT-rVqJof0/s1600/mbseventbrite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9r7m7iUuuvAEmWaV2Cszq3m3GBgYcnuUb-nosZRR64L9xqAPa4pRlDNbhWLaaNzhtEpu991Yix1secaAoT6E_Qx73EJbkRVrCSeIOLkiL8FDnKB2aayZ3u7HjaDUOrJiqXZT-rVqJof0/s400/mbseventbrite.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">In
2015 the Mind Body Spirit Wellbeing Festival arrived in Birmingham. For me,
this was a huge bonus as I live a mere ten minutes away from the National
Exhibition Centre, so there was no early morning train to London, or late
evening return loaded down with shopping bags and good intentions. My favourite
festival was on my doorstep!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">This
year, I’m more excited than usual but not for the reasons I mentioned above,
no, this year I’m <span style="margin: 0px;">actually</span> taking part in
the Wellbeing Festival!</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you’ve never attended a Mind Body Spirit festival before, <span style="margin: 0px;">then</span> you’re in for a treat. These exhibitions
cater to all your personal development needs:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Wellbeing studio</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> - where you can
take part in taster sessions hosted by some of the UK’s best Yoga teachers.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Wellbeing Spa</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> – the perfect
place to relax and unwind with Birmingham’s top therapists.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Live Stage</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> – A range of
musical and artistic performances as well as live demonstrations.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Mantra Lounge</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> – Join Anne
Malone, for meditation sessions and sound experiences.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Exhibitors</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"> – A huge array
of stalls, organisations, and therapists are signed up to tempt you with books,
organic beauty products, handmade jewellery, crystals, yoga supplies and
readings.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">As
if that wasn’t enough to fill every personal development requirement you have,
there is also the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Workshop</b> area.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">The
workshop programme has a marvellous mix of international <span style="margin: 0px;">workshop</span> leaders and teachers. Each workshop
offering new ideas on Inspired Living, NLP, Feng Shui, Science and Angels,
Meditation, and much more.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">For
more information about the incredible line-up of workshops, and to purchase
your tickets, pop along to the <a href="http://www.mindbodyspirit.co.uk/birmingham">website</a>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Kicking
off the entire programme of events is the ‘fabulous four’, bestselling
afterlife author, Theresa Cheung, respected medium and spiritualist, Claire
Broad, book blogger and Arbonne beauty and wellbeing expert, Kim Nash, and
inspirational blog of the year winner, Shelley Wilson. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I’m
so excited about standing up on stage and sharing my story with the attendees
of this impressive exhibition. Our topic is ‘Finding Heaven’ and the four of us
will be entertaining our audience with a little bit of Heaven on Earth followed
by the Staircase to Heaven, and showing you how easy it is to achieve if you believe.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
going to be a fabulous event, full of inspiration, motivation, and laughter.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you want to join, Theresa, Claire, Kim, and myself then you’ll find us onstage
between 10.30am – 12.30pm on Friday 4<sup>th</sup> November 2016. Tickets are
£17 per person and can <span style="margin: 0px;">be purchased</span>
<a href="http://www.mindbodyspirit.co.uk/birmingham/whats-on/friday">HERE</a>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">I
<span style="margin: 0px;">sincerely</span> hope you join us for this <span style="margin: 0px;">excellent</span> workshop – see you there x</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><span style="color: #0066cc;"><br /></span></u></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3IvSPI3I5N8REPQWZ4n6r1vhm3yVpSyq9OCOHJJcytmqbAYpJYVrWIUVaL9iZ1pBmkDWwDHVeHPdvGaehwcr_33F2OXhWKG5igxa74kCLLm_2efKQMB39bvH4WtIjI85cvwZ2rtOOKM/s1600/189632_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3IvSPI3I5N8REPQWZ4n6r1vhm3yVpSyq9OCOHJJcytmqbAYpJYVrWIUVaL9iZ1pBmkDWwDHVeHPdvGaehwcr_33F2OXhWKG5igxa74kCLLm_2efKQMB39bvH4WtIjI85cvwZ2rtOOKM/s200/189632_1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Theresa Cheung</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhslB6_C6J09nHhffo482NdHo3GWdNSh3Cm09Of9jh2rdM-9INe4XQbwHHBSYhwDwjcPCKcTAIy-NITaC2A_l2HdfLgJIRYYIfFdaXkxMyIlAeOM1E17XnKACqNZqd-OIGhlf4fN96yfvg/s1600/28d15041c345eefa537e6848fd643c1f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhslB6_C6J09nHhffo482NdHo3GWdNSh3Cm09Of9jh2rdM-9INe4XQbwHHBSYhwDwjcPCKcTAIy-NITaC2A_l2HdfLgJIRYYIfFdaXkxMyIlAeOM1E17XnKACqNZqd-OIGhlf4fN96yfvg/s200/28d15041c345eefa537e6848fd643c1f.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claire Broad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjVS7H_DffCm2fGYTm_mPZfRObJlhMrQxxgJPkyAyUYtpnW2ogtL6wSmInNeUrN7GmiBTC4rYH4b-an_X5FAO20Y9R5AiyHRIAf1Vy14XSJH-tY3mRDj41YDP2GJn4odwgAuzo97c9Fg/s1600/g75Zau_w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjVS7H_DffCm2fGYTm_mPZfRObJlhMrQxxgJPkyAyUYtpnW2ogtL6wSmInNeUrN7GmiBTC4rYH4b-an_X5FAO20Y9R5AiyHRIAf1Vy14XSJH-tY3mRDj41YDP2GJn4odwgAuzo97c9Fg/s200/g75Zau_w.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kim Nash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzP7iNqGjSl0ZEgzK6MRyepdHfFhmSF61EazU32qw-fxKxZeISo6Rir7YAhUA1xtGYq2tiat1SRENV4Eva3L227DQOVIKee6q1pu2XDoHFemn4McyZ3gIJlFQ521zsLbAUVDHatnQmMA/s1600/_DSC8672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzP7iNqGjSl0ZEgzK6MRyepdHfFhmSF61EazU32qw-fxKxZeISo6Rir7YAhUA1xtGYq2tiat1SRENV4Eva3L227DQOVIKee6q1pu2XDoHFemn4McyZ3gIJlFQ521zsLbAUVDHatnQmMA/s200/_DSC8672.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelley Wilson</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4United Kingdom55.378051 -3.4359729999999912.188318500000001 -86.05316049999999 90 79.18121450000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-52672250554443215152016-09-05T00:00:00.000-07:002016-10-18T05:14:05.070-07:00Make Time For What Matters - Now!<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Everyone
knows how much I love writing lists and goal setting, and <span style="margin: 0px;">it’s commonly known</span> that I enjoy a good New
Year resolution or two. The New Year is a great time to work on new beginnings
and fresh starts. However, you don’t need to wait until January 1<sup>st</sup>
to make relevant changes to your lifestyle, career, health, or wellbeing.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmI7F9o44c1Ayj4XtQfNty_wz49Ninw4mClBgIr5iA1I5FKBKhemaM4opkp5dkacMebE2jtmSt86lukH_BZoiKrqpc1qqh9JQ-IWaB0aEpOPhOGkAnYb5f6MRqUHkizfIMoQ5t7NJiLc/s1600/Holistic+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbmI7F9o44c1Ayj4XtQfNty_wz49Ninw4mClBgIr5iA1I5FKBKhemaM4opkp5dkacMebE2jtmSt86lukH_BZoiKrqpc1qqh9JQ-IWaB0aEpOPhOGkAnYb5f6MRqUHkizfIMoQ5t7NJiLc/s1600/Holistic+Photo.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">September,
for me, is the perfect month to embrace those new adventures, start a new
academic course either online or at night school, or begin a health <span style="margin: 0px;">regime</span> that will keep you mentally and
physically fit during the winter. It’s a month of crisp weather, the promise of
home grown apples and blackberries, and let’s not forget the oodles of back to
school stationery just waiting to <span style="margin: 0px;">be purchased</span>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">For
years I put off getting started, not just with my writing projects, but with my
health, and wellbeing. I would grumble about my muffin top and back fat but
then demolish a cream bun at the local coffee shop. I would tell myself that ‘this
year’ was when I’d finally write that book. Year after year I did this until <span style="margin: 0px;">finally,</span> something clicked – I was only letting
myself down.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">So,
this is how I began writing my motivational blog and consequently publishing my
bestseller <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How I Changed My Life in a
Year</i>.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Once
I’d committed to my goals, and worked on a strategy to action them, I was on a
roll. The new habits I formed during my year long challenge have remained with <span style="margin: 0px;">me,</span> and this shows in my productivity. Since I began
blogging back in 2013, and taking myself seriously as a writer, I’ve published
five books; three non-fiction titles, and two YA fantasy fiction novels (the
third book in my YA trilogy is due out in November). </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Setting
yourself goals, however small, to help you accomplish a task such as finishing
a book, losing weight, recovering from illness, can be done at any time of year
– don’t wait for the New Year, or Monday morning. Don’t hold back until the
time is right – it will never be right.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">If
you want to read about the fifty-two challenges I took on and accomplished in
twelve months then grab a copy of my book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00KAAUE88">HowI Changed My Life in a Year</a></i>, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">only
99p</b> for a limited time only (4<sup>th</sup> – 9<sup>th</sup> September
2016).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoGzNWxwrz6XgP9eryHKng50P9K2GYH0gk2sHrCx4hwXbiVxQSuoJAxorDA9-GBcQaALnO8m2Sl2uFLlc8DZuxiVCiNNv7cuJeJR_ZfILqhWlApK2AmB3b-oX1t-QDMqaeCdxuQ3CtEc/s1600/99p+Advert+Sept+2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoGzNWxwrz6XgP9eryHKng50P9K2GYH0gk2sHrCx4hwXbiVxQSuoJAxorDA9-GBcQaALnO8m2Sl2uFLlc8DZuxiVCiNNv7cuJeJR_ZfILqhWlApK2AmB3b-oX1t-QDMqaeCdxuQ3CtEc/s320/99p+Advert+Sept+2016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">Happy
September!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;">(Originally posted on my author <a href="http://www.shelleywilsonauthor.com/">blog</a>)</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-46055264625863053672016-07-13T01:21:00.000-07:002016-09-08T07:00:57.625-07:00How to Use One Month to Make Small Changes That Last.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2_kB2uvoFbt4il-ZtkERQpEdaep61pEQr-TEin3SO6Zwa_xeE_GAQyvsNo0zrfEbH1DwzLnoG2ixnCEG36BemEECTz8cIQxQguX1FJKEoJwyvCM59UD9vLrqB6U47U6K-2xxwgGMiYI/s1600/holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2_kB2uvoFbt4il-ZtkERQpEdaep61pEQr-TEin3SO6Zwa_xeE_GAQyvsNo0zrfEbH1DwzLnoG2ixnCEG36BemEECTz8cIQxQguX1FJKEoJwyvCM59UD9vLrqB6U47U6K-2xxwgGMiYI/s320/holiday.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you’ve just experienced that horrific realisation that you go on holiday in a
month and are having those ‘where is the svelte figure I promised myself’
thoughts then panic not. </span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
still time to turn your bad habits around and install a better mind-set so that
you can enjoy your holiday and return with a clear focus for the remainder of
the year.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Here’s
how:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Days 1 – 6</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Turn
to your <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">trusty</span> journal and note everything
down. Write down all the times you reach for the biscuit tin, or smuggle a Mars
bar under your t-shirt so the kids don’t spot it. While you’re at it, jot down
how you were feeling at the time (angry, upset, etc.) and the time of day. By
doing <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">this,</span> it helps to give you an
insight into your activities and the behaviour associated with each act/habit.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Days 7 – 12</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Without
an action plan then our changes will fall apart. Nothing in your life will
change unless you put in the work – <u>every day</u>. Doing a daily act towards
your chosen goal is the only way to succeed in setting up new, healthy habits. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Days 13 – 18</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Don’t,
under any circumstances, think that you can change a lifetime of bad habits
overnight – this is like going ‘cold turkey’ and would be detrimental to your
wellbeing. Instead, try replacing a bad habit with a good one. For example, do
you reach for the wine at 6 o’clock on a Friday out of habit? Try replacing the
wine with a meditation class, or a walk around the block. An alternative plan to
doing things differently – serve your meals on a smaller plate, use a smaller
wine glass, etc. This process is <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">an easy way to</span>
change existing habits.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Days 19 – 24</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Grab
yourself a ‘buddy’. Whether it’s someone to weigh in with, go for a walk with,
or someone who will keep you accountable to your action plan – having a friend
or family member as your support team can work wonders.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Days 25 – 30</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
month is a relatively short time to make a change, but even if you use this
30-day plan as a starting <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">point,</span> it will
help you to make better choices.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Habits
are tricky suckers as some of our bad ones may have <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">been installed</span> at a very young age. Don’t try to change too much,
too soon and don’t give up. If it’s worth <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">doing,</span>
then it’s worth spending the appropriate time to get it right.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Believe that you
can make those changes and start <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">to action</span>
it today.</span></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-53571955389480933132016-06-22T00:00:00.000-07:002016-07-12T07:28:22.475-07:00What's Your Favourite Inspirational Quote? #wwwBlogs<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you scroll down any social media feed you will find an abundance of memes with
a variety of quotes – some are inspirational, some humorous, and some are very thought
provoking.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
share quite a few of these on my Resolution Challenge <a href="http://www.facebook.com/resolutionchallenge">Facebook </a>page. Not
because it fits my personal needs – although, <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">some days</span>
these affirmations have been spot on! – I share them in the hope that they’ll
help someone else.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
I ran my holistic health <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">business,</span> my
clients were always at the forefront of my mind. If I read an inspiring <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">article,</span> I would save it as I knew it might
resonate with one of my ladies. When I heard about a new meditation <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">class</span> or spiritual <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">workshop,</span> I would forward the details to the people I knew would
enjoy these events.</span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Social
media is the perfect platform to share good intentions far and wide as you just
don’t know who you might help along the way.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today
I’m sharing my ten favourite memes taken from Facebook, Twitter, and <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">Instagram,</span> and I hope one, or all of <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">them,</span> resonate with you. Enjoy x</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0VkdbpYWFQL4h1QxLGBKxlyk5gZEp-57Hvcvz5Ksl2diTv_bZZkp2qJjOs-l5Fl2_kflfE9tqw8OoIUZLQ4xdWA0GI0ivNC1NP3GywNW_5XjTzILloVj6oFfWmFHR4vuc-O-eLZTfEI/s1600/50-Inspiritational-Motivational-Thoughts-quotes-and-memes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0VkdbpYWFQL4h1QxLGBKxlyk5gZEp-57Hvcvz5Ksl2diTv_bZZkp2qJjOs-l5Fl2_kflfE9tqw8OoIUZLQ4xdWA0GI0ivNC1NP3GywNW_5XjTzILloVj6oFfWmFHR4vuc-O-eLZTfEI/s320/50-Inspiritational-Motivational-Thoughts-quotes-and-memes.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_cGnF293Fv8z0AC2Xix0Ab382CGdSuy26-pWHbg0G-69UvZiXph7FdnWpsFhnKWi23TkCntDBX1MKh2oxueyPnOrgB_1iSMzWELIqw3d7Gy95tb8jyQmuCYUYQr9MOf2JFvaU15GI4Y/s320/Best-25-Motivational-Quotes.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpR5cbfuMewHgLpwV9QSSBiaq6bIorRCSMeDhR0peF32w1ARE58NZkCtke-6YpVTsKcEyrtvfArjiOc293qFN4rcEc8UOSUWDP4_IBE9wU34MDYmge_aHW6gtGwX23GSVcFG7e9NuEoA/s1600/inspirational_memes_to_get_you_more_motivated_for_life_640_15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfpR5cbfuMewHgLpwV9QSSBiaq6bIorRCSMeDhR0peF32w1ARE58NZkCtke-6YpVTsKcEyrtvfArjiOc293qFN4rcEc8UOSUWDP4_IBE9wU34MDYmge_aHW6gtGwX23GSVcFG7e9NuEoA/s320/inspirational_memes_to_get_you_more_motivated_for_life_640_15.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_Zy-s0afQ5hp0BOarksQ8rM2XBgMXJsoLIP7EEMjO27u4_Sp8AysFbznpaDIOo6mxtUXvnpXAGNr79BUzYh2IRhW1KpHMQVx2tTeWfPMd1SGLEDVL8q2Aukv6BCrIj1NqtPGmVQ7zV8/s1600/images4YHC4FV3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_Zy-s0afQ5hp0BOarksQ8rM2XBgMXJsoLIP7EEMjO27u4_Sp8AysFbznpaDIOo6mxtUXvnpXAGNr79BUzYh2IRhW1KpHMQVx2tTeWfPMd1SGLEDVL8q2Aukv6BCrIj1NqtPGmVQ7zV8/s1600/images4YHC4FV3.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbejfMPdMu9TC3UpLwBTTmdbBvcRZo7ToaVRLMh5hWp-yvCSXNOebp1A9aSiqyQzI7nelnikE4Ns-iqlevaRWRL-k9f0w_jvYy6uZTTUxW7CleDwjUUOdo4MssRQdm2d3CpGbsb3bYR5g/s1600/lundi-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbejfMPdMu9TC3UpLwBTTmdbBvcRZo7ToaVRLMh5hWp-yvCSXNOebp1A9aSiqyQzI7nelnikE4Ns-iqlevaRWRL-k9f0w_jvYy6uZTTUxW7CleDwjUUOdo4MssRQdm2d3CpGbsb3bYR5g/s320/lundi-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ifsOgw4-v4GFnFi41utNcD1tSIis82NetPVPgoeiqQwyeOo-iTr3eC0z2m2H8MpYMGm9S-N_YO_bJ5cVgoeDSMXEOFrThugo0iy2pNfSfkfJnsNoDDIP00Dhq1ko-zhB57qiZWsLC5w/s1600/motivating-memes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ifsOgw4-v4GFnFi41utNcD1tSIis82NetPVPgoeiqQwyeOo-iTr3eC0z2m2H8MpYMGm9S-N_YO_bJ5cVgoeDSMXEOFrThugo0iy2pNfSfkfJnsNoDDIP00Dhq1ko-zhB57qiZWsLC5w/s1600/motivating-memes.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTgVwXH77jXqToAj0xC5udXS4yeiXXQ4PY4K7HPeqMtjZ_C2_f-n539CwnxsyFPPRxHu98itP3XguG3nnncxutR2uDOYqUkQFjCG9hCX7hUBtBfdvuMp6AFKBbWon7V0NL6z3_jKDay8/s1600/motivational-quotes-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTgVwXH77jXqToAj0xC5udXS4yeiXXQ4PY4K7HPeqMtjZ_C2_f-n539CwnxsyFPPRxHu98itP3XguG3nnncxutR2uDOYqUkQFjCG9hCX7hUBtBfdvuMp6AFKBbWon7V0NL6z3_jKDay8/s320/motivational-quotes-13.jpg" width="284" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4Ohkmsro9Xpuf3_-1VTIh0aAM18O8LP0clt2r7FqD6t7s7Ep2dPB5HFKDmuFwRk1f9lGIltnuezbzJhmXmu1gbiQyvWW0xF2hZFp_Phr7qPPHoZ9CBX1nmGI-k3H1ZAszp5qn6zIj9c/s1600/the-only-time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4Ohkmsro9Xpuf3_-1VTIh0aAM18O8LP0clt2r7FqD6t7s7Ep2dPB5HFKDmuFwRk1f9lGIltnuezbzJhmXmu1gbiQyvWW0xF2hZFp_Phr7qPPHoZ9CBX1nmGI-k3H1ZAszp5qn6zIj9c/s320/the-only-time.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJBGyEhKqcXsfIQ2WnqMD30qcDWblxceK7xLs7ijSLK_OTzWp1GVnXmCVZ1T8iru4NScbdQYEpLaq8-aihg9oK6jlL8WDQfDC5Ore5dZe1O59RKTVYzz80SXl2QduCY_rkX8kf2arlPY/s1600/tumblr_inline_o7oscu2Cvg1te9s4t_540.png.cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJBGyEhKqcXsfIQ2WnqMD30qcDWblxceK7xLs7ijSLK_OTzWp1GVnXmCVZ1T8iru4NScbdQYEpLaq8-aihg9oK6jlL8WDQfDC5Ore5dZe1O59RKTVYzz80SXl2QduCY_rkX8kf2arlPY/s320/tumblr_inline_o7oscu2Cvg1te9s4t_540.png.cf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhkXjsjz3qrrpzuluRvsrJmIohuSikYwyLxN5jYa9MwQGi5-oBx2g8O_C930NiEVG9RZi0PuyFMtxbPwza4bv6jKlN51ZaBnbn8HkebO2ozON5iw0dU77zBfXjguhJNzfsI6Lk_bt3TH8/s1600/8189_904858186278796_2376475604138522645_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhkXjsjz3qrrpzuluRvsrJmIohuSikYwyLxN5jYa9MwQGi5-oBx2g8O_C930NiEVG9RZi0PuyFMtxbPwza4bv6jKlN51ZaBnbn8HkebO2ozON5iw0dU77zBfXjguhJNzfsI6Lk_bt3TH8/s320/8189_904858186278796_2376475604138522645_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>What's your favourite quote?</b> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-7100449439801599122016-06-01T04:04:00.001-07:002016-06-21T07:52:03.355-07:00How to Change Bad Habits<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9WsHQhNOS40FraQ_FiuiNpnW-cRt_VKMgS1IcJtGKNS86qWru6qkVzaax-HoJJB4p5Rk-8Sk5-BRXI34ukaSrBQty6yKZCAcwROA8AW98D3d1izTM1VuaY1e1LyKDgVlKClCZb2CYXw/s1600/change-management1-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF9WsHQhNOS40FraQ_FiuiNpnW-cRt_VKMgS1IcJtGKNS86qWru6qkVzaax-HoJJB4p5Rk-8Sk5-BRXI34ukaSrBQty6yKZCAcwROA8AW98D3d1izTM1VuaY1e1LyKDgVlKClCZb2CYXw/s200/change-management1-300x225.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why
change the habit of a lifetime? I have no idea who said <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">that, but it has certainly resonated with me over the years. Why
indeed? Our poor brain categorises our actions as habits so that we don’t end
up with mental fatigue. Having to make constant decisions depletes our energy
and </span><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">it’s, therefore,</span> a welcome relief if
there are habits in place to make that decision making <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">easier</span>.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
what if you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">really</span></i> want to change a habit? Maybe it’s a bad habit that
makes you feel guilty or sad, or perhaps you want to create a good habit and
have it stick as a regular in your life. How on earth do you go about this?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
joined a gym yesterday. Don’t <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">panic; I</span>
will NOT be clambering on any rowing machines or sprinting down a treadmill anytime
soon. I joined so that I could utilise their swimming pool and abundance of
yoga and Pilates classes (the <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">added bonus</span>
of a coffee shop swung the deal!). I want to create a good, healthy habit in my
daily life and meet like-minded people.</span><a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bH4mHiUgZ2q5ySN70prR07kxSQE0_qWxYUCQodBxjHCH33oK1EuFnRkhlMfhUOBahQAeKpDaFxEE2oOWbBkEDbxnWdILkqadcaSJFTCUkNb4HVcT521ktfFCFKAFp75rQrl4ZSs9FGo/s1600/bridget-jones-gym1-e1326059037781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8bH4mHiUgZ2q5ySN70prR07kxSQE0_qWxYUCQodBxjHCH33oK1EuFnRkhlMfhUOBahQAeKpDaFxEE2oOWbBkEDbxnWdILkqadcaSJFTCUkNb4HVcT521ktfFCFKAFp75rQrl4ZSs9FGo/s200/bridget-jones-gym1-e1326059037781.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Before
I hit the ‘join now’ button or unearthed my swimming costume from the depths of
the ‘won’t wear ever again’ pile, I decided to observe my day to day habits. I
jotted down in my journal everything I’d done over a <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">couple of</span> weeks. I wrote down all the unhealthy snack attacks I’d
had, all the TV re-runs <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">I</span>’d watched, and
how my mood fluctuated when I was as sedentary as a sloth (most days!)</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Interestingly
I noticed that my busiest and most productive times were between 6.30am and <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">11am</span> when I did most of my blog post sharing,
commenting, and interaction on social media. I then settled down to write, either
blog posts or my current work in progress. Once lunchtime <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">arrived,</span> I started to slow down. For me, this
is inevitable as I am still coping with the <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">after-effects</span>
of my viral illness – I will curl up and get on with reading the books <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">I</span> have scheduled for the review team <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">I</span>’m a member of, so I’m working but also
resting. Once the kids come <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">home,</span> I begin
the family routine interspersed with work/social media.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was quite insightful to see on a day to day basis where I was wasting time and
when my bad habits emerged, but more interestingly, these periods of
procrastination also coincided with my dip in mood. I realised that nothing
would change <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">about</span> my anxiety and depression
if I didn’t take small action steps. The habits I wanted to implement could
fill that void of time and consequently lift my mood.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
I joined the gym! Before I signed on the dotted <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">line,</span>
however, I checked through my diary and added – in <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">pen</span> - swim sessions twice a week and booked on a Pilates class.
Just like a work meeting, doctor’s appointment, or social event, by adding my
sessions in the diary it becomes a to-do task that has had time allocated to
it. Recently, I was asked if I wanted to go for coffee but when <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">I</span> spotted the word ‘swim’ <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">in my diary,</span> I declined and suggested another
date. That small change has helped me to create a better habit.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Another
good idea, if you want to create better habits, is to gather yourself a support
network. <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">This may</span> include a group of girls
who go swimming with you, or <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">simply</span>
texting a friend to say you’re going to the gym on a specific day. It makes you
accountable for your <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">actions,</span> and you’re more
likely to carry through with your intentions. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
it comes to our healthy eating <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">habits,</span> I
have recently found that doing it all differently helped me enormously. I’d got
myself into a dieting rut and spent most of my time over-analysing everything I
ate. For me, this wasn’t good for my <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">anxiety,</span>
so I decided to adopt the habits of a skinny person and just get on with my
life and not think too much about weight goals. Years spent at slimming clubs
have <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">shown</span> me the types of healthy meals
I should be eating, and I no longer drink <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">alcohol,</span>
so my weekend calorie count is nothing like it used to be. The relief I felt
when I freed myself from dieting restrictions was incredible – and I lost 1lb! </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
want my swimming to become a regular part of my life, but only I can create
that. It takes 66 days to turn a small change into a routine habit but if I believe
in myself enough then I’ll make it happen.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do you have any
habits you would like to shed? Or maybe you have a solid tip for changing
routines and creating better habits? I’d love to hear your thoughts.</span></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-5606649453982187392016-05-26T04:06:00.002-07:002016-06-01T04:04:58.799-07:00#BookReview Moon Wisdom by Heather Roan Robbins #Astrology<br />
#BookReview Moon Wisdom by Heather Roan Robbins<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFf2tSZ75cr2J1h4i8Zosz8gW9A5-FRq5IBpNYksZT37iNRujsmJiyqJm5wkaNCY40nwlq6Xf1OQWuaDEZ4cnyI1_Lsps9W5LGLl43wmDUrkWdlhyphenhyphenT4tOPNp_VpUKrr-AhPrsGnKVyvo/s1600/61qZ74cy23L._SX402_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFf2tSZ75cr2J1h4i8Zosz8gW9A5-FRq5IBpNYksZT37iNRujsmJiyqJm5wkaNCY40nwlq6Xf1OQWuaDEZ4cnyI1_Lsps9W5LGLl43wmDUrkWdlhyphenhyphenT4tOPNp_VpUKrr-AhPrsGnKVyvo/s320/61qZ74cy23L._SX402_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
<strong><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Author:</span></strong><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> Heather Roan Robbins</span></strong><br />
<strong><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">Category</span></strong><strong><span lang="EN" style="font-weight: normal; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">: Mind, Body, Spirit/Astrology </span></strong><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">My Rating</span></b><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">: 5 out of 5
stars</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Review:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">For the past couple of years, I have convinced myself that my
emotions and overall mood has been linked to the moon cycle. After being
diagnosed with severe depression last year I monitor my state of mind on a
regular basis and try not to overwhelm myself with too many activities. I
noticed that there were certain times of the month when I felt much lower than
other times.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I decided to investigate this further and found Heather Roan
Robbins’ book, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Moon Wisdom</i>, about
transforming your life using the moon’s signs and cycles.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heather explains how the moon sets the tone of the day and that
it changes signs every two and a third days. By knowing where the moon is on
any given day, you get a snapshot of the mood and general attitude for any
particular day.</span><a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I didn’t want to use this book as a portent for my life – I’m
savvy enough to carry on living my daily life as I always have and enjoying every
second of it. What I did want, was an explanation as to why I had low moments
when my depression beat me and I needed to hide under the duvet. I wanted a
little guidance to sort through the muddle that is my mind. Moon Wisdom gave me
this guidance.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">At the start of the book there is a ‘how to use’ section which
shows the reader where to go to find out what your moon sign is – you do need
this information to be able to utilise the book. I found a great website <a href="http://lunarium.co.uk/"><span style="color: #0563c1;">http://lunarium.co.uk</span></a> to use as I couldn’t
quite get to grips with the site recommended in the book. I also downloaded the
Solar Moon app for my iPhone which tells me at a glance what sign the moon is
in. I am then able to refer to my book for a low-down on that day, for example;
page 12: Navigate your day with the moon in Aries. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The second part of the book gives you information about the
phase of the moon at the moment of your birth – I was born under a Libra moon
and found the data to be quite insightful.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Part three describes the phases of the moon in more detail.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">This is a full colour book and beautifully written. It is easy
to navigate and read even if you are a beginner who is simply fascinated with
the moon.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I would highly recommend.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><span style="color: #181818; font-family: "merriweather"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><br />
</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Blurb:</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; mso-hyphenate: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-vertical-align-alt: auto;">
<b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heather Roan Robbins</span></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> believes how we respond to the Moon's powerful influence is key to how
we lead our life. The Moon circles the Earth and zodiac in approximately 28
days and changes signs every 2.5 days. The Moon sets the tone of the day. When
we know today's Moon sign, we know what to expect of the public mood and how to
easily handle people. When we know the Moon we were born under, we have a new
understanding of ourselves, what drives us, and what makes us feel at home. And
when we know the Moon sign of our partner, boss or best friend, we have a
beneficial tool to understand and get along smoothly with them. </span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; mso-hyphenate: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-vertical-align-alt: auto;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">In Part I, Heather explores the meaning and
usefulness of the sign of the Moon each calendar day to help us navigate our
day and make the most of our time. In Part II she explores the imprint of that
sign and phase of the Moon at the moment of our birth, to better understand and
deal effectively with ourselves and others. Part III layers in the effect of
the phases of the Moon on our everyday life and on our birth Moon. From here we
bring attention to the Moon's relationship to the other planets in our solar
system, and how to use those important aspect-relationships to fine tune our
planning.</span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; mso-hyphenate: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-vertical-align-alt: auto;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heather Roan Robbins shows how with the wisdom of
the moon and its empowering guidance you can always choose your response and
take charge of your life in a positive, healthy and proactive way!</span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> Amazon <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Moon-Wisdom-Using-Moons-Cycles/dp/1782492666/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1464259389&sr=1-1&keywords=moon+wisdom">UK</a> | <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Moon-Wisdom-Using-Moons-Cycles/dp/1782492666/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1464259389&sr=1-1&keywords=moon+wisdom">US</a></span></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-64061188019123782972016-05-18T00:00:00.000-07:002017-04-20T00:25:22.613-07:00Turn Stress Into Something Positive #Stress #Wellbeing<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">We’ve
all experienced those days or weeks that wipe us out. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we become bogged down by work, family life and a hectic social scene, we may
begin to forget certain things such as a friend’s birthday or to cancel a hair
appointment. Neither of these scenarios are life threatening and certainly shouldn’t
tip us over the <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">edge,</span> but when we take
too much on, the cracks begin to show.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicMVB5buGhBtItpo82h56rz9f41OjaQgRK7FsqHD9ijBnDogozHOObNCh2nHrCtdt1LER9POCrUtOMNiQK5baXDmRKDs33hwTIQOOuuDvP68snlrNFNiyHDPyHKNa7h4ks61ZQGKri9QM/s1600/2stress_jokes_600x4502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicMVB5buGhBtItpo82h56rz9f41OjaQgRK7FsqHD9ijBnDogozHOObNCh2nHrCtdt1LER9POCrUtOMNiQK5baXDmRKDs33hwTIQOOuuDvP68snlrNFNiyHDPyHKNa7h4ks61ZQGKri9QM/s320/2stress_jokes_600x4502.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Stress
is a part of who we are. We deal with pressure, deadlines and multi-tasking
regularly.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
have been many books and articles written on the benefits of a certain amount
of stress in our lives. <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">It can keep us on our
toes, motivated</span> to succeed and help us focus on an important task. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">However,
regardless of whether we believe that stress is good or bad, it can still <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">have a detrimental effect on our health and wellbeing.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
we deal with an excessively stressful situation our body produces adrenaline
and cortisol to help us deal with the threat – this is our fight or flight
response.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">An
argument or running for the bus can prompt our body to produce these hormones
even though these simple acts don’t fully warrant the response. Very quickly
our body will return to normal, however, if you live in a constant state of stress
where your blood pressure <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">isn’t given</span>
time <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">to go back to</span> normal, and your
hormone levels are consistently high, you will become physically ill.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Stress
affects <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">everyone,</span> and stressful
situations surround us at every turn – home life, work, finances, friendships,
grief. We all deal with stress in different ways, some people coping with more
than others.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’ve
begun to understand my <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">own</span> limits now. As
an A+ blood type, I naturally produce higher levels of cortisol and therefore
reach the stressed stage much faster than someone who is an O blood type. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Physical
symptoms of stress can include getting more colds or developing eczema, as well of more serious ailments, or you
can become more lethargic and unsociable. Often we will overeat or drink more
as a way to cope.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSx27oURSq_UqRWpEGsGg4Hf3v7OPFLbkQCmv8cEksJFVhb2nxt8XwZRcGQToEzXZcqzzPgeAWA_nWemgcvhXxlbIDBe43kRqZrqXzHe_Zo9NB5X7Mc3ssxxplhyPQT5nWgkbSqRz-m7o/s1600/diagram4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSx27oURSq_UqRWpEGsGg4Hf3v7OPFLbkQCmv8cEksJFVhb2nxt8XwZRcGQToEzXZcqzzPgeAWA_nWemgcvhXxlbIDBe43kRqZrqXzHe_Zo9NB5X7Mc3ssxxplhyPQT5nWgkbSqRz-m7o/s320/diagram4.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Noticing
the outward signs of stress before they become too <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">severe</span> can help you to avoid a full-on illness. I know that when I
begin to get <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">eczema,</span> it’s my sign that I’ve
done too much and <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">needed</span> to take a
time-out. It’s important to look out for these signs and act as soon as you
spot them.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
can you do to turn stress into something positive?</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSx27oURSq_UqRWpEGsGg4Hf3v7OPFLbkQCmv8cEksJFVhb2nxt8XwZRcGQToEzXZcqzzPgeAWA_nWemgcvhXxlbIDBe43kRqZrqXzHe_Zo9NB5X7Mc3ssxxplhyPQT5nWgkbSqRz-m7o/s1600/diagram4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Affirmations are a good way to talk yourself down from a worrying scenario. ‘I can cope with anything that life delivers’ is a good one to use.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Meditation will give you an instant calming fix – I highly recommend the <a href="https://www.headspace.com/signup?origintoken=google-b&gclid=CNDx7qiS4cwCFesW0wodzqQHfg">Headspace app</a> for a quick ten minute guided meditation.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let go of everything that is out of your control. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thinking <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">positively</span> can have a profound effect on your wellbeing. We are often fearful of new challenges/situations. By keeping a positive frame of mind and reassuring ourselves that the sweaty palms are perfectly <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">normal</span>, we can move forward and embrace each situation.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">My
other go-to favourites to help me cope with stress include:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Music – listening to my favourite songs helps me to focus on the good things and lifts my mood.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Journaling – writing down anything that is worrying me, helps me to release it</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Candles, herbal tea, and a bubble bath – the power of taking some ‘me-time’ <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">is</span> quite incredible.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">What do you like
to do when feeling stressed? Can you de-stress <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">quickly</span>
or does it take you a while to relax?</span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzHd2o-8gACCXj1FFKH7sq1cw0T6208sj2UJrWFpu39EJfwYzyQeJrCytPOmsg1rPK8dbjFthE3xFC0SeEm_E5IALUEhyduKDfD2giwptMcbJjFR9He1eQ9bso8ZF5PnwZyqt5dHLBvA/s1600/1434551106071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzHd2o-8gACCXj1FFKH7sq1cw0T6208sj2UJrWFpu39EJfwYzyQeJrCytPOmsg1rPK8dbjFthE3xFC0SeEm_E5IALUEhyduKDfD2giwptMcbJjFR9He1eQ9bso8ZF5PnwZyqt5dHLBvA/s320/1434551106071.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2046423565533635938.post-26663957268505000042016-05-04T04:26:00.000-07:002016-05-17T05:58:12.492-07:00Project You - Learn To Let Go<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamBzDFUYrkDTu4Rl7tzGygOaA1Y4p8YY1lca_Nz2tqo7IQjKKXAseU2vqLac9Dh8YjRD6vRiZPtjEODLm3FXEJ1rSbukGbflfwLxyixKrc5OXGGhRSg9NBTApDi35Kdb_YWBcs1eM0nU/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Project You!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamBzDFUYrkDTu4Rl7tzGygOaA1Y4p8YY1lca_Nz2tqo7IQjKKXAseU2vqLac9Dh8YjRD6vRiZPtjEODLm3FXEJ1rSbukGbflfwLxyixKrc5OXGGhRSg9NBTApDi35Kdb_YWBcs1eM0nU/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgamBzDFUYrkDTu4Rl7tzGygOaA1Y4p8YY1lca_Nz2tqo7IQjKKXAseU2vqLac9Dh8YjRD6vRiZPtjEODLm3FXEJ1rSbukGbflfwLxyixKrc5OXGGhRSg9NBTApDi35Kdb_YWBcs1eM0nU/s200/image.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></b></span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Week 5: Learn to let go.</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Last
time we looked at how self-love must start on the inside, you can read that
post <a href="http://myresolutionchallenge.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/project-you-self-love-starts-on-inside.html">HERE</a>. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today
I want to talk about letting go of old emotions.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’m
one of the world’s worst for holding on to things from my past. I’ll admit that
I’m getting better with age, and having a background in holistic health has
certainly steered me down the right route, however, when our past is still
impacting on our present then something needs to be done.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you are a regular reader of my <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">blog,</span> you
will have spotted the occasional post about my invisible illness and subsequent
depression and anxiety. These are ongoing issues that I deal with in a variety
of ways. Yesterday, for instance, I had my first <a href="http://emmett-uk.com/about_EMMETT">EMMETT</a> <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">treatment,</span> and it blew me away. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmr45boFDamDVsPpfmDZSM9BbrLyIIzJ6r1nLGMT6Oz1EIZsJyCDWjxoIO9ZwN1s15oMsnYIBmVOHd6VJ21tflvtZDhuBXU5GaFNlAYRrQUaGQvTw5ZwCFzCTKb83E4rPbsKXxH3MftA/s1600/that-horrifying-moment-where-youre-looking-for-an-adult-but-then-realize-you-are-an-adult-so-you-look-for-an-older-adult-someone-succes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzmr45boFDamDVsPpfmDZSM9BbrLyIIzJ6r1nLGMT6Oz1EIZsJyCDWjxoIO9ZwN1s15oMsnYIBmVOHd6VJ21tflvtZDhuBXU5GaFNlAYRrQUaGQvTw5ZwCFzCTKb83E4rPbsKXxH3MftA/s320/that-horrifying-moment-where-youre-looking-for-an-adult-but-then-realize-you-are-an-adult-so-you-look-for-an-older-adult-someone-succes.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today,
I have woken up feeling human again – it’s been two years since I felt <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">‘normal.'</span> A recurring theme that came up during
my treatment was the tension in my neck, shoulders, and back (represents support
issues). As a single parent to three teenage <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">children,</span>
I guess it’s inevitable that I can feel unsupported on a day-to-day basis.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’m
sure many of you can recall a time when you tried to either ‘fix’ a friend or
relative instead of sorting out your own health/emotional issues. I’m great in
a crisis and can advise anyone on the perfect course of action, but if I need
to turn that support around, I’m often unable to help myself.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
illness and depression <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">have</span> taught me to abandon
any hope of being in control. It’s a doomed mission! Instead, I choose to be
positive no matter what is thrown at me, and do you know what happens when I
take this attitude? I started the process of healing.</span><a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
treatment I received yesterday only highlighted how far I’d come on my
self-help journey. I was able to spot the issues/limiting beliefs quite quickly
and know that I can accept that these things are part of life. I have limited
control over certain <span style="mso-no-proof: yes;">issues,</span> and it’s
extremely refreshing to be able to release that need for control and watch the problem
dissolve.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Letting
go can be applied to many areas of our life.</span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">De-cluttering the house (clears the way for new opportunities and positive energies).</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Unfriending negative people/pages on social media.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Distancing yourself from energy vampires in your day-to-day life.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pursuing an alternative form of health and wellbeing such as the EMMETT treatment.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgiving and letting go of hurtful behaviours.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Can you think of
any other way of letting go and beginning the healing process?</span></b></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Shelley Wilsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07513209160436996810noreply@blogger.com4