6 Tips To Boost Your Self Esteem

Today, I’m sharing tips on how to boost your self-esteem. So, do you need a self-esteem boost?  A self-esteem boost is a great way to become empowered again and renew your faith.  At one point in my life I saw myself as an attractive, sexual, and vibrant woman.  I looked in the mirror one day and I realized that I had bags under my eyes, more gray hair, and I looked tired.  I wondered what had happened. When I looked back over the years I realized that I had lost myself.  I had lost myself while I worked diligently to be a good mother, I was divorced and was pulling double duty with most things.  

 

 

self esteem



I had become a wife, mother, taxi driver, nose wiper, chef, CEO, house keeper, medicine dispenser, CFO, and it all led to exhaustion.  Being a mother has been my greatest joy.  But, it requires so much.  Even when we think we can’t do it anymore or we have nothing else to give, we reach down and find more and do more.  As women we can become so entrenched in our roles that we can loose ourselves along the way.  We wake up one morning, and wonder what happen to our self-esteem.

So, I had my house remodeled several years ago.  My main focus was the master bath. I have a huge garden tub that I wanted to refresh.  Additionally, the shower needed a makeover.  So, I decided to install a rain shower head.  And, I tiled around the vanity, shower and tub.

I stood in stores for hours looking until I found the perfect tile.  I even had a seat constructed in my shower so I could carefully shave my legs, and a heated ceramic tile floor installed.  After the project was finished, I surrounded my tub with beautiful candles and spa towels.  It was my favorite room in the house.  It’s funny, I can’t remember the last time that I soaked in that tub.  Let alone sipped a cup of tea and enjoyed the flicker of the flames on the candles. You may be wondering what I did to get back on top.

 

How to Boost Your Self-esteem: 

 

1.  Know that you’re important – You’re an entity in your home too, and it’s okay to love yourself. Make time to do the things that you enjoy such as having a glass of wine, scrapbooking, reading, cross-stitching, watching your favorite TV show, or playing a computer game. Whatever you enjoy, take time to enjoy it.

2.  It’s okay to not respond to every need that everyone else has – Trying to please very one will wear you out, lead to stress, and health problems. Remember you need your rest too.

3.  Accept responsibility for where you are now –  Don’t blame your kids or your husband, you have the power to say I’m tired I need to rest, I need help or I need time for myself and take it.

 

self esteem

 

 

4.  Become determined and self-reliant – Do what you can around your house, rather than sitting around waiting on your husband or significant to do everything for you. Take the stress off yourself because you’re waiting for someone to complete a project for you. It could also take the stress of your husband or significant other too.  This includes painting a room, building those raised garden beds, painting the deck furniture, cleaning out the garage etc. There’s some great bloggers out there that can show you how.

5.  Stop trying to take on everything – There are no shortcuts in life, it can be brutal at times.  We must learn to let things go, take a deep breath and exhale. Set priorities and learn to walk away when things get overwhelming. Tomorrow is another day, you can get it done then.

6.  Budget your money and treat yourself  – If you are a SAHM, get a pay check for your work inside the home. Purchase a bouquet of flowers for yourself or treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure or facial. Not your thing, buy a new dress and have a monthly date night with your husband or significant other. It will recharge your batteries!

It’s important to reclaim your self-worth and start treating myself like the queen that your are. I have learned that it’s okay to make myself number one occasionally.  Being mom, wife, and grandmother are wonderful roles, but we should never loose ourselves. They aren’t inclusive of who we are.  We hope that you have found our tips on how to boost your self esteem helpful.

Please leave us a tip on how you boost your self-esteem. We may want to incorporate your tip into our routine.

You may also like How To Empower Yourself Emotionally
                                    Why I No Longer Use the Word Weak
  

Assertiveness Quotes to Empower Women

Do you struggle with asserting yourself?  Finding a balance between being assertive and not being aggressive can be tricky.  Being assertive means being able to say no without feeling guilty.  It requires you to get a backbone and stop allowing others to intrude on you and enter your personal space.  Today, I’m sharing tips to empower yourself  with assertiveness quotes

 

 

quotes for women

“If you behave like a doormat, expect to be stepped on and don’t complain about it.”
Suzette Haden Elgin

“I’m a woman / Phenomenally. / Phenomenal woman, / That’s me.”
Maya Angelou

“The minute you settle for less than you deserve, you get even less than you settled for.”
Maureen Dowd

“The basic difference between being assertive and being aggressive is how our words and behavior affect the rights and well being of others.”
Sharon Anthony Bower

“Too many of us fail to fulfill our needs because we say no rather than yes, yes when we should say no.”
William Glasser

“Every time we speak, we choose and use one of four basic communication styles: assertive, aggressive, passive and passive-aggressive.”
Jim Rohn

“My theory is that if you look confident you can pull off anything – even if you have no clue what you’re doing.”
Jessica Alba

 

assertiveness tips

 

 

 

“Those are my principles, and if you don’t like them… well, I have others.”
Groucho Marx

“You create your opportunities by asking for them.”
Patty Hansen

“It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.”
J. K. Rowling

“Like what you do, and then you will do your best. ”
Katherine Johnson

 

 

quotes

 

“The duty we owe ourselves is greater than that we owe others.”
Louisa May Alcott

“If you don’t have a seat at the table, you’re probably on the menu.”
Elizabeth Warren

“I encourage people to remember that “no” is a complete sentence.”
Gavin de Becker

“When fools come for a piece of you with their shenanigans and tomfoolery let them come. However, remember to give them enough that they won’t ask for seconds.”
Donavan Nelson Butler

 

Most importantly, think about these assertiveness quotes and start asserting yourself.   It will change your relationships and raise your confidence and self-esteem.

 

 

 

 

How to Build Confidence in Your Relationships

Are you built on a solid foundation?  Recently, I had a conversation about being successful in relationships and in life.  I remembered a quote from many years ago, “If it’s not build on the right foundation it won’t stand.”  I always believed the quote was so fitting, especially when it pertains to relationships.   I started thinking about the many people that I’ve encountered over the course of the years.  Some of my relationships/friendships have withstood the test of time and some were temporary.  I know that those that didn’t last weren’t build on the right foundation, at least not for me.   Today, I’m going to share a few tips that will help empower you and teach you how to build confidence in your relationships.

 

self-confidence tips

 

I see my house, me, as having 3 major components. The first is my foundation. My foundation is what keeps me standing.  It’s what allows me to bend, but not break. It’s what allows me to be able to weather storms when they hit. My foundation is my values that I’ve worked to develop over the years.  My values change, but they have always allowed me to remain steadfast and not waiver.  These tips will teach you how to build confidence in your relationships:

  • Assertive – I have learned to assert myself over the course of the years.  I’ve worked on speaking my mind, but doing it in a tactful way.
  • Open-minded – I’ve learned to accept people for who they are. They may not think the way I do and they may not live their life the way I do, but I’ve learned to let people be people.  I don’t need to socialize, be friends or have a relationship with them.  People are going to be who they are and I just don’t expend time and energy trying to change one thing about them.  I don’t sleep with them nor do I depend on  them for my lively hood, so they can kick rocks.  I just remove myself and continue with my life.
  • Faith – It’s important that I believe in someone other than myself and I never waiver from my Faith.
  • Self-Reliance – Self-reliance is important to me and one that I don’t waiver from.  I want to be able to sustain me and mine, and never have to rely on other people to keep a roof over my head, feed, cloth or sustain me in anyway unless it’s my husband.  Since I don’t have one, I work to take care of me.  I have the ability to do just that, so why should I take advantage of other people to do what I can do for myself.  If I’m going to teach others to be self-reliant, I must practice what I preach.  This tip is imperative when thinking about how to build confidence.
  • Honesty – Another value that I will not waiver on.  I believe that a person’s word is their bond.  If you can’t live up to your words, it falls into the same category as being unreliable. You can’t be trusted, so what’s the point.
  • Diligence – Remain steadfast and never give up.  This attitude will lead to you achieving your goals and ultimately your success.
  • Resourceful –  You must build resources in order to be successful.  In my opinion, you build resources so you can build comrade and create great things together or assist one another in reaching a common goal.
  • Real – The only fake thing that I like is the gel coating on my nails.  Other than that, I’m real and will remain real for the rest of my life.  If you can’t be real, you can’t show people who you really are.  You can count on what I say, and you can count on it being the truth.  At least my truth.

 

My second level is my frame.  I’m robust!  I’m thick enough where I can’t be snapped.  Within my frame is my goals, my decision making skills, my education and training.  Basically, my repertoire. My skills for survival and success.  The lessons and skills that I use to raise and assist my family as well as mentor and lead others.  I work continuously to enhance these skills.  The world changes constantly, so it’s important that we all stay on our game.

Education is the key to success.  It doesn’t have to be a formal education, you can educate yourself through on-line courses.  Furthermore, I believe life is the greatest teacher.   There are many who have been successful without a college degree.  Additionally, you don’t have to have a 4 year degree to be successful either.   You can obtain an Associates and do great things in your life.  It’s all about your ability to seek and obtain.

Most importantly, my frame includes my personality and how I see the world.  My approach to life and my belief system.  I have set high standards for myself.  And, I work everyday to maintain what I have accomplished and continue to reach for what I haven’t.

Last is my frame out.  How I present myself, my frame and my values to the world.  You can acquire education and possess skills, but if you can’t put it together for the benefit of yourself, your family and make a contribution to society what good is it.  I’m thankful that I have worked toward everything that I have.  It empowers me to assist others in receiving theirs as well.   When you feel good about yourself, the sky is the limit.

How to build confidence in your relationships is something to ponder?  What is your foundation built on and what do you include in your frame out? Everyone doesn’t have to be built on the same foundation nor do we have to have the same frame or frame out.  That’s what makes us individuals.  Just make sure that your foundation is solid and it won’t crack when you encounter a storm.



How to Find More Time for You

how to find time for you

You take care of the kids, strive to be a supportive wife,  and manage the household.  Additionally, you maintain a job outside the home.  Finding time for yourself is difficult.  You care about your family, and would most certainly do anything for them.  However, you realize that you’re sacrificing your own well-being to take care of everyone and everything.  You’re wondering how to find more time for you.  You’re craving time to yourself.  You know that a little downtime for self-care, self-exploration, and self-gratification is imperative to your health.

What Happens When You’re All About Family

It may seem admirable to be all-consuming of your family’s needs and desires, but eventually it will weigh on you. When you continue to extend yourself, you could start to resent the very people you love.  You may feel that you’ve given up who you are.  Furthermore, you may feel that you’ve given up your joy for life in exchange for their happiness.   Your family is always happy, always has what they need, and they can rely on you to get it all done.  But, at what cost?  How do you find more time for you?

It’s imperative that you not ignore the signs that everything is taking it.  Some women become so overwhelmed that they end up abusing alcohol or sink into depression. This can put you and your family at risk.  It’s possible that you could end up in legal trouble for drinking and driving.  Furthermore, your substance abuse could turn into a full-blown addiction.  Unfortunately, it can have lasting effects on your loved ones.  If you’ve been feeling helpless, sad for long periods of time, moody, engaging in reckless behavior, or abusing substances, there is help in southern California.  If you’re not in the southern California area, there is help in other regions across America too.

How to Find Time for Yourself

Now you know that consuming every moment with your family can be detrimental to your health, you need to do something about it. The problem most women have is finding time in their day to make room for things they enjoy.  How to find more time for you they wonder.  We have a few solutions on how to find more time for you:

  • Start with a few minutes – Making schedule changes immediately may prove difficult, so start slow. Try to find a way to squeeze five to ten minutes out of your day for yourself. Whether you get up earlier in the morning or set aside time during your lunch break, just make sure that during that time you’re doing something for yourself. Read your favorite blog, write a poem, go for a walk, eat a healthy snack, listen to your favorite song, etc.

  • Pencil it in – Are you good with keeping appointments? If so, you should start penciling in your downtime. Treat it like a doctor’s appointment that you can’t miss. When you’re scheduling your week, add in a few hours to yourself. Make sure you have something interesting planned.  Most importantly, don’t try to get out of keeping an appointment “to do nothing”.   If you don’t have something fun planned, you may start to think about all the things you could be using that time for.

  • Accountability Partners – If you’re not going to stick to your guns and make more time for yourself, ask someone who cares about you to hold you accountable. This could be your spouse or your best friend. Let them know that you want to start spending time doing things for yourself. Express your interests and then have them to check in on you. If you haven’t been accomplishing your goals, they can express the importance and even offer a solution like watching the kids for you.

Women were built with superpowers.  As a result, sometimes we forget that we’re human.  So, you must learn how to find time for you.  As much as you love your family, you have to have just as much love and commitment for yourself.  It’s imperative to find ways to simply focus on yourself. Whether it’s a few minutes each day, a scheduled day each week, or with the help of an accountability partner.  Eventually, loving yourself will become second nature once again.

Why Am I Thankful For the Stumbles In My Life

 

 

 

Being Thankful

 

Thanksgiving is upon us.  This time of year I slow down and take inventory of everything that I’m thankful for and why I’m thankful.  I strive to give thanks throughout the year, but I know that I don’t sing praises as often as I should.  When I started to write my list this week, I found that I was thankful for my stumbles.

Most people would find stumbles a strange thing to be thankful for.  The definition of stumble is to trip or momentarily lose one’s balance; to almost fall.  There have been times when I’ve stumbled and was able to catch myself or regain my balance.  Other times, I hit the dirt, floor or whatever was beneath me.

So, why am I thankful for the stumbles in my life. Because the stumbles have contributed to who I am and where I am today.  Stumbling is a part of the journey in this thing called life.  Those stumbles and failures caused me to have to get back up, brush myself off and try again.  You can’t reach the finish line of life without stumbling along the way.  When I look back on my stumbles,  I think about my attempt to walk in high heels.  When I first started wearing them, I had to practice walking in them.   I practiced, and eventually I became a master.  As a matter of fact, I can still wear them.  They may not be 4 – 5 inches at this point in my life, but I can still rock 2 – 3 inch heels.

I can also relate my stumbles to learning how to walk. I don’t remember learning to walk, but I do remember my daughter. When she was first learning how to walk, she stumbled a lot.  However, she reached a point where she figured out how to pull herself up and made another attempt at walking.  She saw the goal, and she was determined to reach it.  Sometimes the goal was a doll, a treat or me reaching out to her.  She saw walking as a means to get from Point A to Point B.

As a result, she learned to hold on to the tables, chairs or sofa.  Whatever she could grab to steady herself when she needed to, she took advantage of.  If there was nothing available, she learned to stop in her tracks so she could steady herself before she proceeded.  Eventually, she was able to reach her goals without losing her balance.

The same technique applies to life’s journey.  Another reason I am thankful for my stumbles is because our walk through life requires us to stumble so we can grow.  We become stronger in our purpose and learn along the way.  It requires us to assess our goal, steady ourselves when we become unbalanced, or pick ourselves up when we hit the ground.  Why am I thankful  for my stumbles?  Because they have helped me learn the following:

Endurance – Staying the course until I reached the goal.

Strength – I am thankful for never giving up, even when I thought I couldn’t go on.  My stumbles strengthen me and have made me a stronger person.

Compassion –  Being able to relate to other’s struggles and misfortunes because I have stumbled, has taught me compassion.

Empathy – Over the years I have learning to understand and relate to the feelings of others.  When you stumble, there are tons of emotions that go along with the struggle.  I learned that I wasn’t the only person who has stumbled or who is stumbling.  As a result, you learn to listen and empathize with others.

Determination – Adopting an attitude of never giving up.  Determination is needed to live, love and learn.

Knowledge – Learning from the stumble.  Why, how I regained my balance, and how I reached my goal in spite of the stumble(s).

Appreciation – You learn to appreciate everything you have because of the stumbles and struggles.  You learn to embrace them all, because they are a part of your story.

So, why am I thankful for my stumbles?  Many of us are embarrassed or ashamed of what we have gone through in life.  Because I am thankful for my stumbles, I no longer feel ashamed.  I encourage you to also embrace your stumbles and struggles.  They are a part of your story.

why I am thankful

Ask yourself, why am I thankful for my stumbles?  Make a list of them and be sure to give thinks for your journey.  You can download the worksheet here.  You may also like:  6 Tips to Boost Your Self-Esteem.

Transitional Pieces From Summer To Fall

As you already know, the early days of autumn are pretty unpredictable when it comes to weather forecast.  It’s impossible to always know how to dress.  As a result,  you should have a collection of transitional pieces from summer to fall that you can easily layer.  If it gets too hot you can remove an item or if it gets too cold you can add an item.  Today, I’m sharing six transitional pieces from summer to fall every woman needs in her wardrobe.  When you look good, you feel good.  When you feel good, you feel empowered.

 

 

 

fashion tips for women

 

 

 

 

Long sleeve dress

No, you don’t have to say goodbye to your favorite summer dresses as soon as autumn arrives.  You can still wear them when the temperatures drop.  Simply add a jacket or cardigan.  Needless to say, you won’t freeze thanks to those long sleeves!  Additionally, a long sleeved dress should be a staple in your in your wardrobe for the season.  These looks are sophisticated and very trendy at the same time.

Trench coat

If you still don’t own a trench coat, it’s high time you got one! This piece is truly timeless because of its versatility in the first place. You can wear it both in casual and formal occasions.  I recommend one with a removable liner for colder days and nights.  When you remove the liner it will be lightweight, but still provide warmth and coziness.  It’s perfect for the transitional period!

Cardigan

A stylish cardigan in an autumn-friendly shade will certainly keep you warm.  It will complement your outfit and take it to a new level. Colors such as Terracotta, Marsala, Olive, and Emerald Green may be just perfect for this season.  So have them in mind while choosing a perfect cardigan. Match it with a striped shirt, add a piece of statement jewelry, and voila – your transitional outfit is all done!

Trendy sunglasses

A good pair of high-quality sunglasses are needed during the fall months too.  The sun’s rays are still strong.  Apart from protecting your eyes, sunglasses are extremely fashionable. That makes them must-haves for a transitional period. When choosing a perfect pair, make sure that it perfectly fits the shape of your face.

Numerous brands and fashion houses are coming up with different shapes and sizes.  If you’re not quite sure which ones to purchase, you can always choose classic Dolce and Gabbana sunglasses. This model looks stunning on almost every face shape, while captivating with its Italian elegance at the same time.

Silk scarf

Autumn inevitably brings lower temperatures, which is exactly why a stylish silk scarf is an absolute must when it comes to your perfect outfit. It is a perfect choice since a heavy woolen scarf would definitely be too much – it may be too warm, which can possibly cause you to sweat a lot. For this reason, a nice silk scarf will do the trick. Just choose one in your favorite autumnal shade, or with a trendy print, and you’ll be good to go!

Pointed toe flats

The flip-flop season is finally behind us.  You can finally slip into your pointed toe flats that are just perfect for this period.  They can be worn to both formal and informal occasions.  You can go for a casual drink after work or to a meeting with business partners. Select a pair that are stylish, yet so comfortable.  Style and comfort should be your top priority while picking the right one.

Here you go – a list of six transitional pieces from summer to fall are right in front of you! Each one of them is definitely a must-have for the upcoming seasons. So, make sure that you have at least some of these. Trust us, such pieces will make your life much easier!

Author BIO:

Sophia Smith is Australian based beauty and fashion and lifestyle blogger. She is very passionate about latest fashion trends, DIY projects and organic beauty products. Sophia writes mostly in beauty and fashion related topics, mainly through blogs and articles. She is regular contributor at High Style Life.

You can find out more about her writing following her on: Facebook  Twitter  Google +

 

101 Style Guide For Busy Moms: Wear Flats

We simply love flats: loafers, espadrilles, slipons, Mary Janes, gladiators – you name it!  Flats are a living proof that you don’t have to be uncomfortable in order to be stylish.  And, they offer a great starting point for coming up with head-turning looks. However, it’s not always easy to decide on what kind of outfit can go with different types of flats.  Today, I’m sharing a style guide for busy moms.  Additionally, we have tips on how to create various looks: from business, casual, and urban, to feminine and edgy.  Who says you need to wear heels to look stylish.  You can look great and empowered wearing flats.  
fashion tips, fashion for moms, sandal ideas
Casual and On Point
For a daily casual summer look, try espadrilles.   Furthermore, they are trending big time and look best with rolled up pants, skirts and shorts. For a simple look, try skinny jeans with a light fabric pastel colored blouse (or floral print) and espadrilles within the same color range. Finish the look with a messenger purse or drawstring bag.  Accessorize with a pair of Wayfarer glasses for a cool look.
Girly and Relaxed Style
Gladiators offer a chance to mix up different looks, but they go best with rompers and shorts. Whether they’re ankle-length or knee length, you can style gladiators perfectly for a girly look. Our style guide for busy moms suggests that you try a soft denim short dress or romper.  A simple shoulder bag will do the trick.  Choose the same color leather as your stylish gladiators. Finish your look with wavy hair or a messy bun and keep your jewelry simple. Consider bracelets in vivid colors to make your look bold and interesting.
Business Look
Also, for a boss and sleek look moccasins are a great choice.  But, you can explore many different styles. Try the timeless black-red-white combination: opt for red moccasins and combine them with the simple nylon black business pants and a white cotton no-sleeve turtleneck. Add a red tote bag and you’re all set for a successful day at work!
Edgy and Sexy
So, for a night on the town consider a bolder look that includes leopard print Chelsea boots. If you prefer a more comfortable and edgier look, try wearing ripped black skinny jeans, accompanied with a black top and a leather jacket. If you wish to add more sexiness to your look, replace the jeans with a mini skirt and you’ll definitely be in the spotlight!
Timeless Parisian Chic
Furthermore, flats are known as the essential part of business and casual outfits, but they are a great option for feminine looks, too. Parisian women have a reputation for their unrivaled glamorous sense for fashion. For a tasteful look follow this simple rule when choosing footwear for your outfits: if the length of the skirt or a dress is above the knee, flats are the way to go. If it’s below the knee, heels make a great choice.  For a perfectly styled feminine look, try out fashionable tight dresses: pick the fabrics that contain elastin since they’ll follow your body line beautifully and enhance your curves. We suggest you try out trendy knitted off the shoulder dress (length above the knee) in the nude color and combine it with the classic black ballerina flats.
So, finish up your look with a black cross body purse, or you can opt for a red one and combine it with your lipstick and nail polish. Style your hair in big waves and you can even add a beret. Stick to the nude and tan shades, and of course the timeless B&W for a sleek
Parisian look.
Finally, these are our top five ideas on how to wear flats and create different kinds of looks. Feel free to experiment with the information given in our style guide for busy moms!
Author BIO:
Sophia Smith is Australian based beauty, fashion and lifestyle blogger. Additionally, she is also very passionate about DIY projects, latest fashion trends and organic beauty products. Sophia writes mostly in beauty and fashion related topics, mainly through blogs and articles. She is regular contributor at High Style Life.
Find her on: Facebook  Twitter  Google +

How Faith Can Eliminate Fear

Today, I’m going to share empowerment tips on how faith can eliminate fear.  Empowering yourself can lead you to living life through faith. Do you remember the fairy tales when you were growing up that spoke of dragons?  The fairy tales usually included a castle, princess, knight, dragon and happily ever after.  However, not everyone’s life turns out to be a fairy tale.

Unfortunately, many of us don’t enter adulthood without fears or scars from the dragon.  There are woman who are afraid of being alone or believe that they can’t make it their own now.  Fear enters through our wounds and causes us to enter adulthood with the desire to be rescued by the knight.  We believe we need that knight to rescue us because he never came in our fairy tale.  But, I’m going to teach you how to slay your dragons yourself.

 

how faith can eliminate fear

 

How faith can eliminate fear:

 

Unfortunately, life has beaten so many of us down.  Due to an ex-husband or boyfriend who has abused or left us, someone has convinced us that we are  worthless, daddy abused or left us and the list goes on.  As a result the fire breathing dragon in the fairy tale is still alive.  That dragon roars blows fire.  He reminds us of how worthless we are and that we will never amount to anything. It causes us to have low esteem, a lack of self confidence or a lack of direction because we believe it.  The fire breathing dragon haunts us and has us cornered.  We don’t tell anyone about that monster.  We keep it a secret and walk around in shame.  But, I’m here to tell you that you can Slay The Dragon no matter what you have gone through, I did.

  • As a teenage mother, I had to face my fears. Not knowing how I was going to raise my daughter and make a life for us terrified me. Fear will cause you to do many things.  It will cause you to head down a path of destruction.  On the other hand, it can lead to your blessings.  What path are you choosing?  By the grace of God, I headed toward my blessings.
  • I didn’t know where I would end up, but I did knew that it was  the beginning of my journey.  Stepping out on faith became a big part of my life.  Holding on to my faith, I realized that being penniless didn’t equate to being broke.  I realized that I wasn’t alone.  I placed my hand in God’s and allowed him to lead me along my journey.
  • Realize that you are in control of you and your destiny.  No matter what cards life dealt me, I decided that I would become a card shark.  I played the hands that were dealt.  Sometimes I would win and sometimes I would lose. I just knew that I would not sit idle and allow life to walk all over me.

 

 

how faith can eliminate fear

 

 

 

So, each morning I faced my fears.  I prayed for the tools that I would need to make a life for my child and me.  And, a knight on a white horse was never in my prayers.  I simply wanted to make a way to provide for us.  Asking God for my blessings was a daily ritual.  All I had to do was ask and I would receive.  The next step was to give him the glory and praise that he deserved from each of my blessings.

I must admit, I ventured from the path that God had planned for me occasionally.  But, for the most part I stayed the course.  God places trials in our path for a reason.  Regardless of your situation, divorce,  problems with baby’s daddy, death, sexual or domestic abuse or some other loss you can triumph too.  Face your fears, and you will learn to Slay The Dragons too.

But know, the fire breathing monster will appear just when you think you have everything under control.  Life is full of twist and turns, but don’t despair.  I have accepted that I will have to spend the rest of my life fighting this monster and putting out his fire, but I know the Victory Is Mine.  You must claim because it’s already yours.  Step out on faith and victory can be yours too.  Learning how faith can eliminate fear is your first step.

 

You may also like:  25 Ways to Feed Your Soul  and  Courage Scripture

 

 

Values Help Develop Kid’s Self-Confidence

  kids self-esteem, motivating children, kid's values

 

First, parents play a vital role in grooming and developing a child’s personality and self-esteem.  Do you want to be the proud parents of a child who is full of self-confidence?  Furthermore, do you want your child to walk with their head held high?  Here are some things you can do that will in turn help boost your child’s self-confidence:

  • Do Not Let Any Negative Thoughts, Emotions and Limitations Pull you Down Negative thoughts undermine your confidence. Do not let your true capabilities be overshadowed by inhibitions of the mind and heart.  Furthermore, exercise self-control and learn to maintain your calm.  Also learn to stay composed in panic situations.  So keep brainwashing yourself.  Filter out the negative thoughts and keep going.
  • Positive Thinking Breeds PositivityBack your positive thoughts by positive actions. Even when you are on the lowest ebb, let the light of positivity shine through.  Your children will see it.
  • Face your fears and overcome any hurdles that come your way – Feed your self-esteem by challenging yourself and facing your biggest fears. Doing things which seemed unattainable in the past, can contribute significantly in raising your self-confidence.  You will soon believe that you will be able to cross hurdles and obstacles that would normally deter your progress.
  • Replace bad habits with healthy habits –   You need to correct your inner flaws and short comings to feel confident from within. It is very easy to get into bad habits, but hard to get over them.  Indulging in  healthy habits will help you emerge as a confident individual. Anything that makes you feel good about yourself, will ultimately lead to higher self-esteem.  Teach these healthy habits to your children.
  • Be Grateful for Whatever You Have and Live a Meaningful Life – It is very easy to be ungrateful.  Focus on the good in your life.  Happiness and true bliss can be found in the small things in life. This is where our individual perceptions come into play.  If you envy other people, you will be ungrateful for your blessings.  This keeps you in a constant state of restlessness because you always feel the other person is better off than you. Until you are truly content and satisfied at heart, you will continue to seek ways to make you happy. Being happy with who you are.  It will lead to living healthier and a more productive life.  It will also teach your children to happy with who they are, and to be grateful for the little things in life.
  • Emerge from failure as a stronger, experienced individual –  If at first you don’t succeed; try, try, try again. Do not let failure overpower you to a point where your reasoning and logic is clouded.  Impaired reasoning leaves you confused and demoralized.  Accept your failure, pick up the broken pieces and get on with life.  You can always try again.  Your children will see that failure is a part of life.
  • Raise your intellectual standards – Be consistent in searching general knowledge and awareness. Being knowledgeable makes a person more confident. Personal growth is a continuous process. Stay updated with current national and international events. Become a participant on various topics such as politics, business and sports. Try learning new things on a daily basis and keep your child updated too.
  • Engage in philanthropic activities – Teach your children to think about society.  They need to learn to empathize with the people who are not a fortunate as them.  Be an example by being an active part of it. Children need to learn to spread happiness around them.  Spreading happiness will make others feel good about themselves as well as others.  It also makes them forget about the negativities that surround us.  It enhances our confidence level too.

Finally, be an example for your children.  They will follow in your foot steps, and remember you may not see immediate changes in your child/children.  Building confidence is a life time endeavor.

I want to thank James Smith for this amazing guest post!  You may also like: Teaching Children Responsibility

About the author: James Smith is a survivalist, who loves to write about survival skills and techniques. Currently, he is working for Teotwawki Supplies, offering a complete range of survival and emergency kits. Follow him on twitter @jamessmith1609.

A Working Mom’s Guide On How To Be Happier

As mothers, we often work hard to make sure everyone around us is happy. We want our kids to be happy, as well as our spouses and our employers.  But, how often do you do things that make you happy?  Your happiness and well-being affect the rest of your family.  Just because we’re mothers, doesn’t mean that we can’t take time for ourselves.  Working mothers need to make an extra effort since they are pulled in multiple directions every day.  Today, we want you to start empowering yourself to live your best life.  Here are a few tips on how to be happier:

 


moms guide to happiness, relaxation, self-esteem, building confidence 

 

 

 

  1. Schedule Everything

Invest in a daily planner that you love, or just really utilize that smartphone, because planning out your week will really help you be happier in your day-to-day life. Don’t just use your schedule as a way of staying on task, but write down things you want to accomplish each day, like spending time with your kids. It may seem weird to check things like that off your to-do list, but you won’t view it as a chore.

  1. Get in Sync With Your Spouse

Compare schedules with your spouse and make sure you are both taking the time you need for yourselves. Trade off kid-watching duties so you can go grab some caffeine at Starbucks by yourself and he can hang out with his friends. You both need time to do things that are important to you. In the end, you will both be happier.

  1. Make the Most of Your Commute

We are happiest when we are productive, both at work and at home. Don’t waste your commute to work, especially if it’s long. Use it as time to listen to podcasts, audiobooks or even learn a new language. You may find a new hobby that you love and make the most of time that is precious.

You can also use your commute as a way to cool down after a long day at work by going through pros and cons of the day. Also, try getting into the mindset of going home after work. When you get home after working all day, you should be present with your kids. So instead of thinking about all the things you need to get done at your job, think about how you can spend quality time at home with them.

  1. Learn How to Say No

No could become the most important word in your vocabulary. If you feel like you didn’t spend enough time with your spouse and kids this week, feel obligated to drive them to birthday parties or play dates. Don’t feel guilty if you have to tell other no, even if they don’t like it. Your family is what is most important.

 

empowerment tips

 

  1. Make Time to Exercise

We all know that exercise can boost your mood and make you feel better about yourself. Carve out at least 10 to 15 minutes each day to get some exercise. Take a walk, pop in a workout DVD or just do some pushups and sit ups each night. You will feel happier and your body will thank you for it.

  1. Plan Intentional Time With Your Spouse

If you want to be happier, make sure your spouse is happy, too. Weekly or biweekly date nights are a must for a married couple. Be intentional with your time together. Turn off your cellphones and don’t talk about your kids’ schedules. Have fun!

  1. Don’t Compare Yourself With Other Moms

Most importantly, don’t compare yourself to other moms because it will just drag you down. It isn’t fair to you and it isn’t fair to those moms, either. You may think they have it better because they get to stay home with their kids, but you don’t know the whole story. Instead, know that you are setting a great example of a hardworking parent for your kids. Know that you are helping to provide for them and don’t take the time you get with them for granted.

Your happiness depends on you making time for yourself and for your family.  Learn how to be happier, and you will live a more productive life.  You may also like 6 Tips to Build Your Self-Esteem.

 

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Jennifer  Landis is a hard-working, distance-running, yoga loving mama, health journalist, and blogger. Find more from Jennifer at her blog, Mindfulness Mama or follow her on Twitter @JenniferELandis.