Saturday, August 31, 2013

HOW DOES LIFE GO BY? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 94

We are all given the same number of minutes and hours in a day and days in a week.  Yet somehow there are people who accomplish so much more than you do in that same amount of time.  Why do you think that is?  Is it because you don't manage your time?  Is it because you have fear of failure so you delay getting started?  Is it because you don't know what you want to do or how to do it?  Is it because you spend too much time on minutiae and avoid the big projects?  Is it because you are a perfectionist who is never finished with anything because it is never quite "perfect" or "good enough" for you?

There are people who foolishly fritter away their money and other assets, and there are people who just as foolishly fritter away their time.  They treat it as if there is an endless supply of minutes and hours which we all know is not the case.  When time is gone it cannot be retrieved so make the most of your time.  Be aware of how you are spending it.

If you know what an hourglass is or a minute timer you know that the sand falls through the glass rather rapidly so it is a good reminder of how fast the time of your life is going.  Don't delay, get started, fulfill your dreams, achieve your goals, and enjoy the process.

How does life go by?  It goes:

MINUTE BY MINUTE




Friday, August 30, 2013

IF NOT YOU, WHO? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 93

We all like to receive compliments and praise from others.  Parents, older siblings, grandparents, teachers, and friends can all build us up so that we feel much more capable and confident in our abilities.  When we enter the work force our superiors and colleagues can make us feel good about our contributions and the quality of our work.

What happens though if we don't have a supportive family or a large family?  What if we are shy and find it not so easy to make lots of friends.  What if our job is with people who are not generous with encouragement and praise?

Then we just have to do it ourselves.  In truth we know when we have done something well.  We are totally aware when we do the right thing.  We recognize when we meet challenges.  So if no one else is paying tribute to us, then we must do it ourselves.  I can do it if need be, and so can you.

Today's message is:


BUILD MYSELF UP!







Thursday, August 29, 2013

UP OR DOWN IS YOUR CHOICE - CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY

Gravity is what keeps you on the ground and prevents you from floating upward.  Did you know that your attitude can do the same thing?  When you think negative thoughts about yourself you prevent yourself from rising above your current status in life, and you get in the way of your own success.  When you think and say positive things about yourself you free your spirit from gravity, and your self-confidence gets a boost which can make you feel as if you are floating on air.

Do yourself a favor, and

DEFY GRAVITY!



Wednesday, August 28, 2013

ARE THERE MEAN PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 91

There are many mean-spirited people in the world, and we all know at least one or more such people. There are people who abuse others physically, sexually, verbally, mentally or emotionally.  It can be difficult to get away from them sometimes because they can be parents, foster parents, step parents, spouses, bosses, classmates, co-workers, teachers, pastors, priests, scout leaders, neighbors, caregivers, bullies, gang members and criminals. If you are in a situation from which it is not possible or easy to escape because you are too young, too old, or too frightened you still have an option.

The world has many more good people than mean people, and you can help yourself by seeking out those who are kind and caring.  Even one kind person can make a huge difference in your life especially if you are truly being harmed by a mean person.

Kind people are out there so look for them, pay attention to the people around you wherever you are, and open yourself up to get to know them.  Do not let shame, fear, or pessimism prevent you from surrounding yourself with as many kind people as you can find.  Do not let fear prevent you from telling someone if you are being harmed or threatened.

Today's message is:


SEEK KINDNESS




Tuesday, August 27, 2013

DO YOU APPRECIATE LIFE? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 90

Have you ever known anyone who is happy all of the time or most of the time?  Have you known anyone who is unhappy all of the time or most of the time?  What is the difference between them?  Do you think it is because one is more fortunate than the other?  Do you think it is because one is healthier than the other?  Is it because one has a happy marriage or relationship while the other has neither?  Is is because one loves his or her job and the other one either has no job or hates the job he or she has?

While I can accept that any individual's personal circumstances can affect their attitude, I really do not think that their happiness or unhappiness is the result.  I think people who are happy most of the time have a true appreciation for life and the wonder of it.  Life is a miracle..........look at a newborn baby and think about his journey to enter the world.  Think about all he will learn and do and how much he will physically grow in his first year of life.

Abraham Lincoln said something to the effect, "People are as happy as they make up their minds to be."  I very much believe he was right. We all have problems and misfortune from time to time, but each day look around you and actually identify the blessings of your life, the world, nature, family, friendships, work, and recreation.

Today's message is:

LIFE IS WONDERFUL!



Monday, August 26, 2013

WILL YOU HELP OTHERS? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 89

No matter how much we think we know or understand about other people, especially children and young adults, chances are there is much we don't know or understand.  One of the things it is so easy to overlook is how much others may look at us as role models to emulate.  Are our behavior and attitude worthy of emulation?  Do we encourage others and give them hope to have success and to achieve their goals and dreams?

You can never be sure when something you have done or said will be just the thing to inspire someone else to try harder, to do better, to not give up, or to have increased self-confidence.  Your courage, your bravery your spirit, your accomplishments, your kindness, your listening ear, or your love may do more for other people than you will ever know.

Try to remember today's message which is:

INSPIRE OTHERS!




Sunday, August 25, 2013

ISN'T THERE ALWAYS A WAY? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 88

What things stand in your way?  Do you believe there are obstacles that prevent you from doing what you want to do, from achieving your goals, from living up to your potential, from realizing success in all of your endeavors?  We all encounter obstacles (or what seem like obstacles to us) in the course of our lives.  Some of us find a way to overcome them by going around them, over them, under them or through them.  Some of us are unwilling to do what is really necessary to overcome obstacles, and when suggestions are offered we find reasons to not try them and continue to accept things as they are (and keep complaining about them).

Which kind of person are you?  When you encounter an obstacle do you genuinely try to find ways to go around it, over it, under it, or through it?  Be truthful with yourself.  Do yourself a favor and remember that every problem has a solution.  Realize that the seeds of solutions are actually in every problem.  Tell yourself that you can do it, and believe in yourself.

Today's message is:

BYPASS OBSTACLES!




Saturday, August 24, 2013

DO YOU LIVE IN THE PRESENT? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY

In today's world people are so very busy with long to-do lists that never seem to be completed.  Lots of people think that multitasking means they are more efficient and accomplishing more than people who do one thing at a time.  However, recent studies have shown that multitasking does not allow you to accomplish more or to do a better job.  Instead these studies have indicated that doing one thing at a time allows you to do it well and either complete the task or at least complete it to the point that you can (some projects are broken down into smaller steps to be done over a period of time).

Doing one thing at a time allows you to live in the moment and to experience and enjoy whatever you are doing.  Business tasks, domestic tasks like cooking and cleaning, and spending time with family and friends will all be more enjoyable if you focus on the present moments in life.  You will find you experience things in ways you either have never done before or which over time you have forgotten.

Today's message is:

EXPERIENCE FULLY!




Friday, August 23, 2013

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 86

Have you thought about doing something that you have always wanted to do?  Do you stop yourself from getting started because you think you have waited too long?  Do you think there won't be enough time to meet your goals or achieve your dreams?  Do you actually have any idea of how much time it might take to fulfill your heart's desire?

There are a number of famous and talented people who did not pursue their passion until they were in what some would consider their golden years in their 60's or 70's.  They started and were successful in their lifetimes.  Grandma Moses is one who comes to mind as a marvelous painter who began painting and left a wonderful legacy of folk art still enjoyed by so many today.  There are writers, poets, playwrights, sculptors, entrepreneurs, and others who believed in starting whenever you can.

Today's message is:

IT'S NEVER TOO LATE!





Thursday, August 22, 2013

DO YOU THINK YOU CAN OR THINK YOU CAN'T? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 85

Sometimes people do not realize the power we have over ourselves to do things, to try new things, to meet our goals, to find love, and to be successful.  Positive thinking is one of the strongest forces we have in our personal arsenals on a daily basis.  Likewise negative thinking is one of the most destructive habits which .at times seems more powerful than positive thinking.  Don't be fooled by that because positive thinking is of more help and value to you.  You have to remind yourself to use it daily.  If you start having negative thoughts stop yourself immediately and think of the opposite positive thoughts and be aware of what the words are.  You will overcome the negative thoughts.

If other people have negative thoughts or words about you, just remember that your positive thoughts about yourself are more important than what anyone else thinks or says.  Let their negativity roll off of you as you combat it with your own positive thinking.

It may not come naturally to you at first if you tend to be a pessimistic person, but if you sincerely try you will find in time that you have helped yourself tremendously.  You will see that what you have thought to be impossible for you has become possible.

Today's message is:

IT IS POSSIBLE!


Wednesday, August 21, 2013

WHAT ARE YOU WORTH? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 84

Are you a person who sees your worth only as a reflection in the eyes of other people?  Do you allow the words and opinions of others define who you are and your self-worth?  Why do you do that?  Do you not realize that you know yourself better than anyone else can ever know you?  Do you not realize that you are who and what you think you are and, therefore, no one else can put a value on you.

Today's message is:



KNOW MY VALUE






Tuesday, August 20, 2013

WHAT DO YOU CHOOSE? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 83

Someone said, "You cannot control what happens to you in life, but you can control your attitude and how you deal with it."  This is one of the truest statements I have ever read, and I try to remember it as things which I do not like happen to me.

Each morning when you awake you have a choice about the way you are going to face the day.  You can be sullen, depressed, angry and complaining, OR you can be smiling, upbeat, calm and happy with the things that are right in your life.

Today's message is:

CHOOSE JOY!







Monday, August 19, 2013

HOW MUCH CAN YOU REALISTICALLY DO? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 82

There are some of us who have never learned to be team players.  Guys who are part of sports teams tend to learn early on what being a part of a team means.  More girls are involved in team sports than in prior years, but still there are many people who have no concept of teamwork.  There are also those of us who have too much pride to ask anyone else for help when clearly it would be wise to do so.  There are many who think they have to do everything themselves in order for it to be done "correctly" or in order for them to prove their value to others.

Be smart and evaluate your to-do list.  Is it too much for one person, or is it too much to accomplish in a given day?  Do you truly have to do everything yourself, or can you delegate part of the list to others?  Even toddlers can be taught to empty wastebaskets or to pick up their toys.  Elementary school-age children can be taught to make their beds and clear the kitchen table.  Middle school and high school students can be taught to clean their rooms, clean the kitchen, do their own laundry, and help with yard work.

If your work to-do list is too long, evaluate what is necessary and what is desirable.  What needs to be done right away?  What can be postponed?  Who else might be available to help you with some of the items?  If you are able to give clear direction it is most likely that someone else in the office has time and skills to assist you.

Today's message is:
                                                       DON'T DO IT ALL!







Sunday, August 18, 2013

DO YOU DEPEND ON OTHERS MORE THAN YOU SHOULD? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 81

Some people are independent from the time they are toddlers.  They know what they want, they go after what they want, and they do not take kindly to interference or obstacles.  Of course, they do not always know what is good for them so they need some parental intervention.  As they get older, hopefully they will be receptive to guidance from good teachers and later professors.  When they are working adults perhaps they will listen to a good mentor.  Listening to others, learning from their experience and wisdom, and even sometimes following their advice does not take away from your independence but actually just indicates how intelligent you really are and that you do not know everything.

Then there are those people who never become independent.  They do not ever take responsibility for themselves, for their actions, for their livelihood, for their lives or the lives of their children.  Sometimes it is because they were not raised by parents who knew how to be parents.  Sometimes it is because they are too lazy.  Sometimes it is because they chose a wrong path to follow in life, a path that led them to poverty and  self-destruction.  Sometimes it is because they are afraid to try, afraid of failing, afraid of being alone.

We all need help or advice sometimes, but the best feeling in the world is to take responsibility for yourself, for your actions, and for your life.  Learning to be self-reliant starts in childhood, and most children show those signs of wanting to do things for themselves.  Sometimes parents squelch any behavior that could make the child more independent, and they do the child a disservice that may haunt the child forever.

Today's message is:

RELY ON MYSELF!


Saturday, August 17, 2013

DO YOU LET OTHERS DECIDE WHAT YOU CAN DO? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 80

Do you know anyone who has zero self-confidence or self-esteem?  Do you know someone who allows other people to define who they are, what they are capable of, and other important facets of their life?  Well, I hope that person is not you because you must believe in yourself and decide for yourself.  If you have never done something do not assume you will not be able to do it based on negative feedback from others or from yourself.  If you have an important decision to make do not believe that you are unable to make it by yourself.  It can be helpful at times to ask others for an opinion, but asking for an opinion is not the same thing as allowing the others to make the decision for you.

Self-talk that is positive, reinforcing your strengths and abilities, and encouraging you to have confidence in yourself it important.  So here are some words to add to your self-talk.

Today's message is:

I AM CAPABLE!


Friday, August 16, 2013

HOW FAST ARE YOU TRYING TO GO? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 79

Are you an impatient type?  When you were a child were you always anxiously awaiting the first day of school, the first day of summer vacation, your birthday, Halloween, Hanukkah, or Christmas?  I was like that when I was growing up and even after I had children of my own.  Then something happened in my life which caused me to be so anxious about what might happen in the future that I found I was making myself physically sick with anxiety.

Friends and even my family doctor gave me all sorts of advice and helpful quotes trying to lessen my anxiety about the future.  The two which I found most helpful were:

Don't worry about the morrow as today has enough trouble of its own.  Matthew 6:34


Life is going to come only one day at a time so learn to take it that way; remember that much if not most of what you worry about will never happen.

Today's message is:

DAY BY DAY


Thursday, August 15, 2013

HOW DO YOU MEASURE YOUR PROGRESS? - CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 78

Some people are very hard on themselves.  They think they have made no progress unless they move toward their goals by leaps and bounds.  Hopefully, you are kinder to yourself and realize that forward motion is progress even if you are not running, leaping, or bounding toward your ultimate goal.  If you are moving step by step toward your goal, you are making progress.  The old cliche is true..........slow and steady wins the race.

Today's message is:

STEP BY STEP!








Wednesday, August 14, 2013

ARE YOU AN UPPER OR A DOWNER? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 77

It is no secret that most of us prefer the company of people who are positive, upbeat, and optimistic about life and the future.  People who are negative, always unhappy and complaining, and pessimistic about everything can be toxic to others.  If you are one of the people whose companionship is preferred, then good for you.  If you are one of the other types, then make a decision to change your attitude and change your behavior.  It will ultimately benefit you.

Today's message is:

UPLIFT THE WORLD!


Tuesday, August 13, 2013

WHAT IS YOUR TAKE-OFF STYLE? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 76

Have you set your sights on something you want to have, something you want to do, or something you want to achieve?  Have you done all the preparation that you yourself can do?  Is it time to go for it?  Are you dragging your heels waiting for something to happen?  Are you afraid to get started?

Believe in yourself.  Believe in your dreams.  Believe in the future.  Stop waiting and get going.  No walking or running for you.

Today's message is:

TAKE OFF FLYING!


Monday, August 12, 2013

TO GET YOU HAVE TO GIVE - CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 75

It is a sad commentary on the times in which we live that many people have no respect for anything.........not for people, age, property, authority, opinions which differ from their own, educators, churches, or even themselves.  Even some of the gangs will kill others for "disrespecting" them.

How about you? Where do you stand in terms of respect?  Do you respect yourself?  If not, how can you expect others to respect you?  Do you respect other people, etc.?  You have to give respect to earn respect so each day ask yourself if you are behaving in a respectful manner.  If not, do something to change it!

Today's message is:


GIVE RESPECT!




Sunday, August 11, 2013

WHO INSPIRES YOU? CHANGING YOUR LIFE WITH WORDS - DAY 74

Are you a creative person who looks for inspiration?  Inspiration can be found in music, nature, literature, religion, art, and conversation.  It can come to you suddenly out of nowhere.  Do you provide inspiration to others?  Do you provide inspiration to yourself?  You should be the first person from whom you seek inspiration.  Find a quiet place and think your own thoughts.  You will be surprised at what happens.

Today's message is:

INSPIRE MYSELF!