Nov 3, 2016 | Be Inspired
There is something powerfully invigorating and life-affirming when doing something for the first time.
How would you answer my question: When was the last time you did something for the first time?
Oh I know…first times can be as scary as they are exciting. But I would encourage you to not be afraid of saying YES to trying something or doing something new. There is so much to learn, see and experience that makes our life interesting and more satisfying.
There are many ways to integrate FIRSTS into your life. These firsts are not always big ones like traveling to a country you’ve never been to before or getting a new job. They could be trying a new recipe or getting together with a new friend. It could be learning something new, trying a new fitness activity, tasting a new food, playing a new game and on and on.
So my friends don’t shy away from trying more FIRSTS when you have the opportunity. You might be surprised how your life will grow in joyfulness and contentment by simply doing something ANYTHING for the first time.
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Oct 27, 2016 | Be Inspired
You’ve probably heard me say before…it’s your heart, not your head that knows best. I truly believe this! Our head gets filled with lots of clutter and noise from everyone and everything happening around us. This usually includes a bunch of “should haves” or “wish I had of.” It’s often difficult to escape from our to-do list that is ever demanding we do this and then that.
But dear ones, sometimes you really do need to just be still and listen to your heart. When possible, escape somewhere –ANYWHERE. I know we can’t all run off to the beach or mountains when we want to. But find yourself a spot that gives you some fresh new view to look at. It may be an overnight in a hotel by yourself. Or a drive to the country to sit in your car at some scenic location. Or sitting at a picnic table lakeside. Or on a swing set in a park.
Some place you’ve never been before adds a bit of adventure to the experience and helps to assure a fresh perspective.
Whatever you do…give yourself some quiet time. To be with yourself. To listen. Ask yourself questions. When you are still and quiet, you will be able to hear your heart. And make the decisions you need to. Or receive the new ideas you long for.
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Oct 13, 2016 | Be Inspired
Take if from a recovering procrastinator, living in the moment and being fully engaged in the present will keep you from a life filled with regrets.
I certainly have some regrets that would not exist if I had not put off doing, saying and experiencing when I had the opportunity.
That said, it’s never too late to make a change. You can begin right now to avoid future missed opportunities.
Keep your focus and energy on who and what matters most to you.
Live by the Nike slogan JUST DO IT!
No more regrets…
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Oct 13, 2016 | Be Inspired
There are many ways to give yourself a break from all the busy and crazy of your everyday life. Even stepping away for fifteen to thirty minutes can be refreshing and help to regroup.
But when you can, give yourself permission to escape to a new location for a few days. You may be surprised at what your heart says to you when you’re still enough to genuinely listen and quiet enough to truly hear.
Your heart knows.
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Oct 6, 2016 | Be Inspired
I love this idea. There’s something about thinking of the discovery of who we are or what we want to do next in our life or the finding of new passion or the learning new skills or developing our talents….all of it….thinking about it all as part of a lifelong journey is so very powerful and wonderful. There’s freedom in this knowledge. There are no time limits. It’s never too late. The possibilities are endless.
I don’t feel rushed anymore. I’m not worried about not having enough time.
Think about this folks. We are all on a lifelong journey of discovery. New adventures always ahead of us. Yes, new dreams can always be dreamed. There is passion to be found in every season of your life.
What would you like to do next on your lifelong journey?
Have you discovered something new about yourself recently?
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Sep 29, 2016 | Be Inspired
Are you feeling heartbroken?
Are you longing for a sanctuary to run to?
This beautiful song lifted my heart when I first heard it and I hope it brings you comfort as well. I was reminded where to find sanctuary. I was reminded that the sanctuary I desperately long for isn’t always found by running away but running into the arms of those I love. That sanctuary can be found in the remembering of happy times. Sometimes we need our loved ones to help us remember these by sharing their stories and memories with us. And other times no spoken words are needed. There is sanctuary to be found in sitting in silence together until we can go on.
It may not always be a person. It could be a place or an activity that brings you rest.
Ask yourself what is it that sustains you, that brings you comfort, that nourishes and soothes your soul, that brightens your spirits? And do that. Do more of that. Until you can carry on…
Author, Publisher and Women's Retreat Host
Annette Bridges is an author, publisher and women’s retreat host on a mission to help every woman realize her story is extraordinary, valuable and noteworthy. Part of Annette’s own journaling practice includes collecting ideas, quotes, songs, videos and photos that inspire her. She shares some of her finds in these weekly “Be Inspired” posts to lift your spirit with encouragement, comfort and joy.
