Giving Is Always In Style

Ironic or not, this is the season of giving. Which also means the season of wanting. People tend to get in that "ooh I want it" mode right about now. Go ahead, admit it... you might have seen a pair of shoes or watch or even a car you have been secretly coveting. Regarding the season of giving though; it actually feels much better to give and not just now, always. Sound crazy? Well, it's not. Being selfless, rather than selfish, is one of the best things a person can do in their lifetime. It not only spreads kindness and love, but it also makes us better people. It makes people smile and feel appreciated. Just a positive thought to put in one's head, when most people (not all) are in the manic and frenzied holiday mode. Take a deep breath and feel your chest. Feel that heartbeat? Yup, you're a functioning human being. Go out there and be awesome.

Putting Our Best Thought Forward

New year, new aspirations, new goals, new dreams and yes, new year's resolutions. There is absolutely nothing wrong with thinking big or planning for the most awesome year ever. That also means sooner or later there may be some disillusion and possibly even resentment. One thing I have been told and it sticks with me every single day - that is 'start as you mean to go on'. This means not over promising, selling something that can not be delivered or making a statement, which there is nothing to back it up or support it and trying to make it fly anyway. Things happen, plans change and life still goes on, no matter what. What I have learned, is to work hard, be positive, drive towards the goal and be able to bend with life in the process. It gives a person more ability to grow, see things from different angles and overcome adversity. Using the most helpful thoughts in our heads; the ones which will ultimately lead to actions and those actions will bring us closer to our goals. Of course, that is not to say that we will not have obstacle and hurdles, but we will learn how to tackle them and push through them, too. In life, there are no guarantees to speak of, other than death and taxes. Not trying to sound morose, but just realistic. The sooner we realize that we should spend less time thinking about what we didn't achieve or what goals we may not have reached and instead seeing how far we have come as ourselves, the better off we will be. The mind controls a lot of things, but we control the mind and in dong so, our thoughts. Think big and work your tail off. Good things will be in your future and never ever give up.

Let's Talk About 2016

Was this a year that good things happened or only bad? That's a rhetorical question, in my mind. Clearly it's not one or the other. More precisely, it's a culmination of both which creates the balance we live in. Life will never be fair and the world 🌎 owes us nothing. Each day, we have a chance to do good, be kind, change or take time to reflect. Nobody can take away our ideals or identity. It does not matter who is elected, because they don't pick our tribe. It does matter if we can all bind together and try our best to love one another. But hey, this is just my opinion and nobody can take that away either. In a year where we saw friends pass; along with some of the most brilliant names in music and movies leave us, there are so many bright moments that we fail to focus on. Be grateful for life's challenges, they make a person stronger and learn what to look out for in a situation which may arise down the road. Keep it simple, no point in overthinking things or staying up regretting the past. To move forward and be the best possible versions of ourselves is the one investment which will always pay dividends in the end. Here's to a year where we grew as people and to a new year brimming with opportunity.

Love Wins

There is a way to do things, with love. Without hate and with kindness as well. I have learned that in doing things that way, things not only work out better, but they do it in a way that makes everyone feel good. 

Keep it simple and do all things with love. 

Life Is Not A Battle

Life is not a battle, but we still need to fight. 

Fight for what we believe in. Fight against giving up. Fight to succeed and live the life we love. All of these fights lead to a greater good. 

Life doesn't have to be a battle, but you will have to keep your head up and be aware. 

Eyes In The Prize

Keeping one's eye on the prize certainly requires a lot of focus. Each and every day we remind ourselves why we are doing the things we are and what we ultimately hope to achieve. Hey people, nothing will happen overnight, in a year or even 5 years. It's all about where we are meant to be and what brought us to that place. Other than hard work, vision and determination, we guide ourselves on our path. What's right for one person may not be right for another. It's an individual journey for some and a couples' journey for others. It al depends on what people truly want and desire. There are no wrong answers. Keep on pushing forward and never look back, unless you want to see how far you've actually gone. Rock on!! 

Find Someone by Brigitte Nicole

Find someone who loves you well. Someone who never belittles you. Even in the heat of an argument. Someone who is gentle with you, but does not treat you like you are fragile. Someone who knows what you are capable of, and celebrates those pieces of you. Not someone who is intimidated by your strength. Someone who can call you out for being a brat, but doesn’t make you feel guilty for being flawed. It is not love’s job to punish you. And remember the person you love is just as broken as you are when they fall short. No one is perfect – do not hold them to this standard. Find someone who is patient, forgiving, and apologetic. Someone who practices forgiveness freely and often. Love someone who is humble, kind, and empathetic. Not only with you, but with a beggar on the street, or a stranger in the supermarket. Common courtesy is important. Compassion is important. Kindness is important. ~ Brigitte Nicole

remember

be kind

be honest

be understanding 

be real

be open

be mindful 

be genuine

just be...