2 JUL 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we’re asking ourselves the question, is it really that bad? As we strive to gain a historical perspective on some of today’s challenges. It’s easy to jump on the negative train and pump up the steam engine with your own parroted two cents. But before you know it, the train and the topic have jumped tracks and you aren’t even sure where you’re going or what you’re talking about. Before you join in the chant of “it’s never been this bad”, take a deep dive into history to gain some insight and an alternative perspective. Looking back at history isn’t just about old stories—it’s about learning how we’ve tackled challenges before, seeing what worked, and using that wisdom to navigate today’s ups and downs smarter. It’s like having a treasure map of experiences that can guide us toward better decisions and brighter futures. So, let’s dig in, learn from the past, and build a tomorrow we can be proud of together! I’ve said it before, I love reading historical fiction. Biographical fiction too but historical fiction gives you new characters living during historical events. I find myself saying…” Whoa, we’ve come a long way baby!” But I think that is so important because if you just read the news or talk around the water cooler, your outlook might be far different. Instead of adopting this narrative, push back and ask - Is this really the worst time in history for _____? Maybe you aren’t sure. Do the research. Dig into the details. Come to the conclusion yourself.  It’s true, not all history is positive but it is relevant. Human beings have made mistakes throughout human history. We’ve failed, learned, grown, and evolved. The only way to make sure we don’t repeat past mistakes is to learn from them. The only way to learn is to research. Take an active part in your narrative by doing the work.  https://bigthink.com/the-past/worst-year-in-human-history/https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9096543/2020-EIGHTH-worst-year-live-history.htmlhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdFB7q89_3Uhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/passion/202302/zooming-out-the-power-of-putting-things-in-perspective History is crucial for putting today’s challenges into perspective for several reasons: Understanding Patterns and Cycles: History shows that many challenges are cyclical. Economic recessions, social unrest, and political upheaval have occurred repeatedly throughout history. Recognizing these patterns helps us understand that current challenges are not unique and can provide insights into potential solutions. Learning from the Past: By studying how previous generations addressed their problems, we can identify strategies that worked and those that didn’t. This can help inform current decision-making and policy development. Gaining Context: Historical context helps us see the broader picture. For example, technological advancements, medical breakthroughs, and social progress often emerge from periods of significant challenge. Understanding this can help us appreciate the potential for positive outcomes from today’s struggles. Building Resilience: Knowing that humanity has faced and overcome significant challenges in the past can be reassuring. It fosters a sense of resilience and optimism that we can navigate current difficulties. Avoiding Repetition of Mistakes: History provides valuable lessons on the consequences of certain actions and decisions. By studying these, we can avoid repeating past mistakes and work towards more effective solutions. Appreciating Progress: Comparing the present to the past highlights the progress we’ve made. Advances in technology, healthcare, human rights, and living standards become more apparent, providing a balanced view that acknowledges both current challenges and achievements. Inspiring Innovation: Historical examples of innovation and problem-solving can inspire new approaches and creative solutions to today’s challenges. Fostering Empathy and Understanding: Learning about the struggles and triumphs of people from different times and places helps build empathy and a broader understanding of the human experience. By placing today’s challenges within a historical framework, we gain a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of our current situation and can approach problems with a more informed and balanced perspective. CHALLENGE: Let’s rewrite the narrative: While today’s challenges seem daunting, history reveals that every era has faced its trials and triumphs. By embracing our past, we gain perspective on our progress and the resilience needed to shape a brighter future together.      I Know YOU Can Do It!

25 JUN 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are freshening our viewpoint as we work to transform problems into possibilities. Problems are like puzzles, tricky but solvable. They’re the hurdles that make life interesting! Possibilities, on the other hand, are the exciting paths that open up when we tackle these puzzles head-on. This show is about providing positive alternatives to some of life’s little challenges. Why stay stuck if you can take an alternate path? As I’ve said before, it’s all about perspective. Is the glass half-full or have you already enjoyed half of the concoction? Viewing a situation through the lens of possibilities can lead to a more positive and proactive approach to overcoming challenges and achieving success. So, let’s flip our thinking and turn problems into fun challenges. Who knows what awesome opportunities might be waiting on the other side? I have a t-shirt that says “365 Possibilities”. I know, I know too early right? But why not approach each day by saying “What do you have in store for ME” vs “WHAT do you have in store for me”. Your internal inflection can completely alter the intent. I had an employer who gave me some seeds of wisdom early on, “Each day starts and ends with you.” That means you are in control. Doesn’t that statement in itself give you some motivational fuel?  It’s easy to fall into the rut of being led around by circumstance and operating on autopilot but wake up and take back the controls. Whether you fly high or swoop in for a loop and a better look, you’re in the pilot seat.  With navigation on your mind, let’s chart a course that has you identifying and taking advantage of all the possibilities along the way. On the last show, I mentioned The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander.  The book combines Zander's experience as the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra with Stone Zander's knowledge of psychology to offer practical tools and inspiring stories to help readers shift their perspective from scarcity to abundance. The book's 12 practices are designed to help you see new possibilities and bring them to life. We’re going to explore these concepts and more! https://www.vishnusvirtues.com/the-art-of-possibility/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6Pk6VNThAkhttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/6-ways-lead-when-you-charge-hacking-hr/ Opening your mind to get a fresh viewpoint can be an invigorating process that leads to new ideas and personal growth. Here are some ways to do that: Travel: Visiting new places exposes you to different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives. Read Widely: Books, articles, and blogs on various topics can introduce you to new ideas and ways of thinking. Talk to Diverse People: Engaging with people from different backgrounds and experiences can broaden your understanding. Practice Mindfulness: Meditation and mindfulness can help you see things more clearly and reduce mental clutter. Check out the Serenity App from Pau Bauer which helps you re-discover the "beacon of light" and stillness within you. Try New Hobbies: Learning something new, whether it’s a language, instrument, or sport, can give you a fresh perspective. Challenge Your Beliefs: Question your assumptions and try to see things from different angles. Seek Feedback: Ask others for their opinions and be open to constructive criticism. Attend Workshops and Seminars: These can provide new insights and skills. Journal: Writing down your thoughts can help you process and see things in a new light. Limit Media Consumption: Sometimes, taking a break from the news and social media can help clear your mind. Practice Gratitude: Focusing on what you’re thankful for can shift your mindset to a more positive and open one. Get Out in Nature: Spending time outdoors can refresh your mind and inspire new thoughts. Volunteer: Helping others can give you a different perspective on your own life. Learn from Failures: Reflecting on past mistakes can provide valuable lessons and new viewpoints. Stay Curious: Always be willing to ask questions and seek out new information. By trying out these approaches, you can gradually open your mind and gain a broader, more nuanced understanding of the world around you. CHALLENGE: See beyond the obstacles and embrace the endless opportunities life presents. By opening your mind and exploring new perspectives, you can transform challenges into gateways for growth. Take action today by engaging with diverse experiences and people, and watch your world expand in unexpected and wonderful ways. I Know YOU Can Do It!

18 JUN 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are reducing stress by lightening up, not taking ourselves too seriously, and finding ways to laugh at life. Alarmed by your frown lines these days? Needing more reminders to relax your shoulders and breathe? Long for the days when your parents sent you to your room or the corner for a much-needed time-out. Life can be intense and our day-to-day schedules don’t seem to allow the room to relax and “laugh it off”. But laughter is like a magic potion for stress—just a good giggle can melt away tension and make you feel lighter. It’s your body’s way of giving you a happy boost, flooding you with feel-good vibes and boosting your immune system like a champ.  Whether you find something naturally funny or you’re intentionally inducing a cackle or two, much is to be learned about the power of incorporating humor and laughter into your daily life and how this can lead to significant improvements in your physical, emotional, and social well-being, making it an essential tool for coping with stress and enhancing your quality of life. Plus, sharing a laugh brings people closer, turning ordinary moments into joyous memories. So go ahead, laugh a little louder and a little more often—your mind and body will thank you! Let’s start it out by attempting to answer the obvious question…what makes something funny? https://www.npr.org/2011/05/05/136030428/what-makes-something-funnyhttps://psychcentral.com/blog/how-to-stop-taking-yourself-so-seriouslyhttps://www.fearlessculture.design/blog-posts/this-is-how-to-stop-taking-yourself-too-seriously Ever heard ofhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ckafp3xHlKM? Well, let me introduce you. CHALLENGE: Embrace the power of laughter to reduce stress and boost your mood—let it be your daily dose of joy. Strengthen your connections by sharing laughs with others, creating happier and more resilient relationships. Make it a habit to find humor in life’s moments and watch as your overall well-being soars! I Know YOU Can Do It!

11 JUN 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are tracing the healing journey of love, from connecting and loving deeply to embracing heartache and every stop in between. Building connections, even when you're worried about getting hurt, is vital because these bonds are the lifeblood of our emotional well-being. Yes, opening up can feel risky, but the rewards of genuine connection far outweigh the fear of heartache. It's through these connections that we find support, joy, and a sense of belonging. Love hurts but first, it heals. The capacity to love deeply is considered a natural, species-specific tendency. Loss is an integral part of growth, whether we're evolving our minds from one stage to the next or facing the final chapter of our physical life. Embracing loss allows us to learn, adapt, and gain deeper insights into ourselves and the world around us. It's through these challenging moments that we truly grow and find new strength. Remember, every meaningful relationship starts with a bit of vulnerability. So, take that leap—embrace the possibility of connection, knowing that the love and support you gain will help heal any past wounds and enrich your life in beautiful, unexpected ways. Change is never easy because with change comes loss. I could spin this in a self-help way, which you know I will, but first, let’s be honest. Letting go of people, opportunities, ideas, dreams, and expectations is never easy. When you make that shift and turn the corner you have to be ready to embrace change or you stay stuck.  If you are letting go of a relationship you embrace the idea of staying single or putting yourself out there again. If you lose a job you’re faced with how to rectify what happened and where you go now. If you lose a loved one you are met with navigating grief while creating a new normal.  Instead of getting bogged down in endless details, start by simplifying your choices into two clear paths. This approach helps you make quicker decisions and maintain momentum. It's not about rigid thinking, but rather about giving yourself a solid starting point to move forward more efficiently. https://thoughtcatalog.com/bianca-sparacino/2017/04/let-me-tell-you-about-people-who-love-deeply/https://elliementalhealth.com/how-to-cope-with-loneliness-and-rejection-in-relationships/https://liveoutrageously.com/inner-circle/ Love’s Tender Evolution We all know the journey of love's tender evolution, From young and free, hearts open in boundless revolution. We fall hard, then rise slowly, with wounds to bear, Calloused, we build walls, breeding suspicion and despair.   We open up cautiously, our pace becomes slow, Our minds awaken to heartache's burdens we now know. We think our hearts are weak, so our minds grow strong, But often they become jaded, overprotective, or wrong.   Distrusting both heart and mind, we retreat to our shell, Building barricades, interrogating all who dare to dwell. Loneliness ensues, yet we tiptoe back into the light, Hoping for heart, mind, and soul to finally align right.   Praying for someone who'll respect and protect all three, Swiftly, before the cycle starts again, we yearn to be free. In this dance of love's evolution, we seek to find, A partner who'll cherish the heart, soul, and mind.   CHALLENGE: Embrace the evolution of love by staying open to connection and growth, despite past heartaches. By trusting both your heart and mind, you pave the way for making connections with those who will cherish and protect your whole being. I Know YOU Can Do It!

4 JUN 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are exploring the concept of mindset evolution as we ready ourslves to embrace continuous change. A shift in perspective and a commitment to positive thinking is not a one-and-done exercise but a progressive journey fraught with ups and downs. Oh to warn the former self about the perils that lie ahead. But what’s the fun in that? It is important to, formulate hypotheses, test theories, fall flat on your face, and get back up again. I pray that the scars are minimal as we figure out life at every turn. But if you stay stuck, you risk the inevitable pitfalls.  Neglecting to evolve your mindset can hold you back from reaching your true potential because embracing change is key to unlocking new opportunities and personal growth. By staying open and adaptable, you prepare yourself to thrive in the face of new challenges and seize exciting possibilities. Harnessing a flexible mindset also enriches your relationships, fostering deeper connections and understanding with those around you. By embracing the journey of continual growth and transformation, you'll find resilience and fulfillment in every step forward. Easy for me to say, huh? Yeah yeah, I took my share of bumps and bruises to get to this level of thinking. What level is that you may ask? The one where you admit you don’t have everything figured out and likely, never will. BUT, you are willing and open to forging forward, grasping at new ideas and strategies to propel your evolution.  https://www.forbes.com/sites/soulaimagourani/2023/12/02/the-art-of-continuous-growthreinvent-yourself-and-kill-your-ego/?sh=1531ca0f280chttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/evolving-mindset-enrique-rubio/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WLRMj4JEQwhttps://www.waking-giants.com/leadership-strategy-articles/harnessing-the-power-of-accountability-for-personal-growth Our past is a rich tapestry that has shaped us into who we are today, offering lessons and insights that guide our path forward. It's important to honor all aspects of our past, both the joyful moments and the challenges, as they have contributed to our growth and resilience. To truly learn from our past, we must be willing to do the work - researching, exploring, and challenging our understanding. Seeking support from a mentor, an accountability partner, or a professional can provide valuable guidance and encouragement on this journey of self-discovery. In the present moment, time is our most precious gift. Embracing the now means seizing the opportunities that are right in front of us. Instead of dwelling on past regrets or anxiously anticipating the future, focus on what you can do today to create a meaningful and fulfilling life. Use this time to nurture your passions, cultivate relationships, and pursue personal growth. As we look towards the future, we are filled with excitement and possibility. Embracing a mindset of continuous evolution allows us to envision not just where we could be, but who we could become. Each day is an opportunity to take steps towards our dreams and goals, building on the foundation of our past experiences. Let go of fear and doubt, and step boldly into the future with confidence and optimism. Remember, growth is a lifelong journey, and it's okay to seek help along the way. Connecting with others who support your growth can provide valuable perspective and encouragement. Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential and are committed to helping you succeed. Together, we can embrace the past, live fully in the present, and create a future filled with endless possibilities. CHALLENGE: Embrace the exciting journey of personal growth by letting go of outdated ideas and welcoming new perspectives with open arms. Take proactive steps to expand your mind, cultivate curiosity, and surround yourself with a community that encourages constant evolution. I Know YOU Can Do It!

28 MAY 2024 · SHOW NOTES:  On this show…we are unmasking the truth, is it love or is it control; manipulation, or codependency? It is so easy to get them twisted because even if you feel with all your heart that it’s coming from a place of love, it can still be manipulating. Thoroughly confused? Well, try operating in that conundrum without the knowledge or the tools to see it for what it truly is. You might identify with being a helper, a fixer, always picking up the pieces, wanting everyone to feel comfortable, and trying to orchestrate the best outcome for all involved and you probably suffer from control issues.   So let’s be intentional as we dive into this intricate dance between care and control. Before we start let’s make a commitment to be kind to ourselves in the process because our intentions stem from love and a desire to help, but sometimes, this can lead us down the path of overstepping boundaries and manipulation. It's a challenging journey to navigate, but understanding the fine line between genuine support and unhealthy codependency is crucial for fostering truly healthy relationships.  As you know, I’m a codependent in recovery. I came to this realization later in life and have done a lot of work to understand, identify, and redirect this behavior yet still…I’m uncovering ways my manipulation can rear its ugly and intrusive head. So, let's explore this together and uncover how we can nurture our connections with authenticity, respect, and true care. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/codependency.htmhttps://www.linkedin.com/pulse/art-surrendering-learning-how-let-go-control-john-rampton-1f/ The difference between love and control in the context of codependency lies in the intent, dynamics, and outcomes of the relationship: - Intent: - Love: Genuine love is based on mutual respect, support, and the well-being of both individuals. It involves caring for someone without trying to change or control them. - Control: In codependent relationships, control often masquerades as care. The intent behind control is usually to manage or manipulate the other person's behavior to fulfill one's own emotional needs or to maintain a sense of order and security. Dynamics: - Love: Healthy love promotes independence and personal growth. Each person in the relationship can express themselves freely and pursue their own interests and goals. - Control: Codependent dynamics involve one person becoming overly involved in the other's life, often at the expense of their own needs. This can result in one person feeling suffocated or dependent, while the other feels responsible for their happiness and well-being. Outcomes: - Love: Relationships based on love encourage open communication, trust, and mutual respect. Both individuals feel valued and supported, leading to a balanced and fulfilling connection. - Control: Codependency often leads to resentment, frustration, and emotional exhaustion. The controlling behavior can stifle personal growth and create an unhealthy dependence, where both parties struggle to maintain their individuality. In essence, love in healthy relationships empowers and uplifts, while control in codependent relationships restricts and manipulates. Recognizing these differences is key to fostering healthy, supportive connections. CHALLENGE: True love empowers and liberates, fostering growth and mutual respect. Let go of the need to control, and instead, embrace the beauty of supporting each other's individuality. By setting healthy boundaries, we cultivate relationships that thrive on genuine care and authentic connection I Know YOU Can Do It!

21 MAY 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are striving for a different vantage point as we rise above self-doubt, transforming shame into embracing confidence. According to a YouGov survey in 2018, about 50% of people reported experiencing self-doubt in their daily lives. That’s a whole lot of insecurity. Is that what you see plastered all over social media…vulnerability? Just another clue that what you see on the surface may not indicate what is really going on under the water. Add in that shame reinforces self-doubt and self-doubt increases shame and you have a tangled web to unwind.  Self-doubt can create real challenges, both personally and professionally. It makes you doubt your abilities and holds you back from growing and achieving your full potential. At work, it stops you from taking on new projects or going for that promotion because you're convinced you're not good enough. This constant second-guessing can lead to major stress, anxiety, and even depression, making life a lot harder than it needs to be. It can also interrupt your relationships, as you struggle to trust others and communicate effectively. In the end, self-doubt becomes a vicious cycle that keeps you from living your best life. I seek strength, not to be greater than others, but to fight my greatest enemy, the doubts within myself. Can you pinpoint when self-doubt crept in and wrecked your confidence? Shame might be easier to identify since it’s typically linked to specific events that you regret but doubt can be a silent thief. Robbing you of possibilities and opportunities you didn’t have the confidence to go for. Just like the settlers did when they claimed new territory, let’s put a flag in and start building a solid foundation of confidence as we eradicate shame and doubt!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XM4urfV7QfU&t=80s - Brene Brown https://positivepsychology.com/shame-resilience-theory/https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-forgive-yourself-4583819https://thrivingcenterofpsych.com/blog/understanding-impostor-syndrome-breaking-free-from-self-doubt/ Self-doubt often begins with a combination of internal and external factors. So here are some common sources - see if you’re holding on tightly to any of these: - Early Experiences: Negative experiences or criticisms during childhood, such as overly critical parents or teachers, can plant seeds of self-doubt. - Comparisons: Comparing oneself to others, especially in the age of social media, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and doubt about one's abilities or worth. - Perfectionism: Holding oneself to impossibly high standards and fearing failure can create a constant sense of not being good enough. - Failures and Setbacks: Experiencing failures or setbacks can undermine confidence, making one question their competence and abilities. - Negative Self-Talk: Internalizing negative thoughts and beliefs about oneself can perpetuate a cycle of doubt and low self-esteem. - Unrealistic Expectations: Setting unrealistic goals or expectations can lead to a sense of failure when they are not met, fostering self-doubt. - Lack of Support: Without a supportive network of friends, family, or mentors, individuals might struggle to maintain confidence in their abilities and decisions. - Trauma or Stress: Traumatic experiences or chronic stress can erode self-confidence and lead to persistent self-doubt. CHALLENGE: Embrace your journey of self-discovery, for in overcoming self-doubt, you unlock the door to limitless potential. Let every stumble be a stepping stone, and every moment of doubt a reminder of your inner strength. Rise above shame because true empowerment is in believing in yourself, fiercely and unapologetically   I Know YOU Can Do It!

14 MAY 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are exploring a puzzling problem; why does communication still fail in a hyper-connected world? Even though the workplace has more modes of communication than ever before, 86% of employees and executives cite the lack of effective collaboration and communication as the main cause of workplace failures. Are we trading convenience for connection and clear communication? If you frequently feel overwhelmed and misunderstood have you ever stepped back and asked, “How much can my brain safely and accurately compute?” The average office worker receives about 121 emails per day and sends out 40 work-related emails daily, contributing to communication overload and potential miscommunication. Studies suggest that people misinterpret the tone and intent of emails and texts about 50% of the time, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.  Over 70% of employees report feeling overwhelmed with the amount of information they receive at work, leading to decreased productivity and communication breakdowns.  It doesn’t take long for me to become distracted. I envision an octopus with eight arms all preforming tasks at the same time and in the center of it all, the googley eyes are spinning and steam is coming from it’s head. Picture it, you're watching a program>while reading the subtitles>you get a text> that asks you to jump on social media to check out a post or video>someone asks you a question>your phone rings>it’s your mother and she can’t understand her banking app>you open a web browser to see why she’s stuck……I literally could go on and on.  Does all this convenience and distracting multi-tasking come at a cost?  Would you be able to go “old school.”  A study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that frequent digital media use involving social media, gaming, texting, and streaming movies, music, or TV increases one's risk of developing ADHD symptoms by nearly 10 percent. Put a pin in that and we’ll come back to it.  https://preply.com/en/blog/bad-communication-habits/https://www.recruiter.com/recruiting/the-negative-impact-that-growing-up-digital-has-had-on-communication/https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/effective-communication.htm Have you ever heard of the snowball effect? The term refers to how small issues can escalate and accumulate leading to larger problems and potentially significant consequences. Now let’s start a lack of communication or miscommunication snowball down the hill. Here's how it typically unfolds: - Misunderstandings: Initially, there might be a small misunderstanding or misinterpretation of a message, which is not addressed or clarified. - Assumptions and Errors: Without clarification, people may start making assumptions or errors based on the initial misunderstanding, leading to further confusion. - Missed Opportunities: As misunderstandings grow, opportunities for collaboration, innovation, or problem-solving may be missed, affecting productivity and efficiency. - Conflict: Unresolved misunderstandings can lead to conflicts, as people become frustrated or feel ignored, further hindering effective communication. - Distrust and Resentment: Persistent communication breakdowns can erode trust and breed resentment among team members, damaging relationships and morale. - Impact on Performance: Ultimately, the snowball effect can impact overall performance, leading to decreased productivity, lower quality work, and potentially even business losses. CHALLENGE: Clear communication is crucial for effective collaboration and understanding in both personal and professional settings, fostering stronger relationships and minimizing misunderstandings. Convey your ideas accurately, ensuring everyone is on the same page to drive successful outcomes. I Know YOU Can Do It!

7 MAY 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are going beyond the mantra to gain some insight and mindfulness momentum. Played out? Is the request to be more mindful met with eye-rolling and heavy sighs? Well there has to be something to it don’t you think? Mindfulness has become popular because studies have showcased its benefits throughout the years, and past research shows it is often effective in reducing distressing symptoms from various mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression. And I think we can all agree that taking a meaningful time-out from a chaotic day, month, or year can only be a good thing. But let’s not just screenprint it on a t-shirt or embellish a throw pillow, let's take some time and really dive in to see what all the fuss is.  What do your moments of mental rest look like? Do you unplug only to plug into something different and maybe more entertaining? I used to move my eyes from my computer only to pick up my phone and jump right back in. Sure it felt like a diversion and something different but before I knew it, I was sucked into streams, posts, pics, and reels. Once I came up for air I wasn’t any less stressed and possibly more burdened.  I love Spring and Fall. I love a windy day, a bright sun, and sometimes a good rain shower. I love observing nature from blowing leaves to crashing waves. There is something so powerful about nature, raw, vivid, and yes, calming. Have you ever just sat and observed? No distractions but what’s unfolding before you. Inhale deeply and open your mind. Let thoughts enter your mind. Like a cube suspended in air, turn that thought and examine it from all the different sides and angles.  Mindfulness is awareness of one's internal states and surroundings. Mindfulness can help people avoid destructive or automatic habits and responses by learning to observe their thoughts, emotions, and other present-moment experiences without judging or reacting to them. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/mindfulness/mindfulness-definition-why-has-it-become-so-popular/https://mindfulambition.net/power-of-perception/https://www.betterup.com/blog/how-to-be-present#:~:text=Focusing%20on%20the%20present%20makes,and%20let%20yourself%20have%20fun. Remember, mindfulness is not just for meditation so while you’re thinking about deep breathing and sitting cross-legged consider that mindfulness can be integrated into various activities and aspects of daily life, such as: - Mindful Walking: Paying close attention to each step, the sensations of walking, and the environment around you. - Mindful Eating: Eating slowly and paying attention to the taste, texture, and experience of eating without distractions. - Mindful Breathing: Taking deep, intentional breaths and focusing on the sensation of breathing to anchor yourself in the present moment. - Mindful Listening: Fully focusing on what someone is saying without thinking about your response or other distractions. - Mindful Body Scan: Bringing awareness to different parts of your body, noticing any sensations or tensions without trying to change them. - Mindful Activities: Engaging fully in activities like yoga, gardening, or even washing dishes by being fully present in the moment. CHALLENGE: Incorporating mindfulness into your daily life can transform your experience, bringing clarity, peace, and a deeper connection to the present moment. By taking small, mindful actions each day, you can cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life.   I Know YOU Can Do It!

30 APR 2024 · SHOW NOTES: On this show…we are weighing the convenience vs the connection to find an optimal balance. Sacrificing one seems like taking a step back in time but limiting the other is detrimental to your health. People need people….I could break out into song here but just trust me. A more recent review of 148 studies concluded that on average having stronger social ties increased the likelihood of an individual's overall survival by as much as 50 percent! You might be a self-proclaimed loner or someone who would rather observe life from afar but the fact is, we need people for emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Relationships with others provide comfort during challenging times, joy during celebrations, and a feeling of connection that enriches life. Additionally, interactions with others offer opportunities for personal growth, learning, and the development of empathy and understanding.  Modern times have really changed the way we interact with others both personally and professionally but has the convenience come at a cost? I say yes, but now I have to convince you. I’m not suggesting we go back to the turn of the century and remove all technology from our houses but I am hoping that you will strive for a healthy balance once you fully understand the pros and cons. Deal? https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-we-are-wired-to-connect/https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/04/17/concerns-about-the-future-of-peoples-well-being/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2023/12/24/loneliness-epidemic-u-s-surgeon-general-solution/71971896007/https://bigthink.com/neuropsych/americans-no-friends/ - Plan Social Activities: Organize gatherings, events, or outings that encourage face-to-face interaction. This could include dinners, game nights, or outdoor activities. - Join Clubs or Groups: Join clubs, classes, or groups based on your interests. This provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and engage in shared activities. - Attend Local Events: Attend community events, festivals, or workshops to meet new people and engage in conversations. - Limit Screen Time: Reduce the amount of time spent on digital devices, which can free up more time for in-person interactions. - Prioritize Face-to-Face Communication: When possible, choose face-to-face communication over digital methods like texting or emailing. - Be Present: When interacting with others in person, be fully present and engaged in the conversation. Put away distractions like phones or laptops. - Seek Out New Experiences: Try new activities or hobbies that involve interacting with others, such as joining a sports team or volunteering. CHALLENGE: Don’t take the easy way out and live your life on the periphery. Step up, reach out, and nurture human connection. It’s the fastest declining commodity. Take the time and invest to reap the greatest rewards life has to offer.   I Know YOU Can Do It!