A good negotiator

I’m a very good negotiator in my head when it comes to making excuses for why I’m not doing something or feeling a certain way about myself. And, as much as I could and should be kinder to myself, I also feel like sometimes a little tough love can go a long way. Motivational speaker; Mel Robbins often quotes, “No one is coming to save you.” Well, that’s a large dose of OUCH. But, damn, it’s true. Taking responsibility for our present life and future life, changing the way we think, and shifting the feels to rid of negative thinking... it takes work!

But if there is one thing I’ve learned along the way, it’s in breaking things down into doable steps, celebrating every little win along the way, and sharing my victories with those who lift me and support me. So, remember, recognizing and changing your thought patterns, creating action is a process. It’s a journey that requires practice, and where practicing it is key.

In the layers.

I have never been able to just simply 'see' the world around me in its natural state, like a tree or flower. Although I can appreciate and honor it for what it is, my mind often dwells in the layers, the seasons, and the memories it evokes. Yesterday, during my much-needed morning hike, I fell in love with how bright and green the algae was on top of the water, contrasting against the blue water and the darkness of the tree line. I feel a bit dorky and poetic when I write things like this, but it's true. And where did my mind go? To the artist Mark Rothko, known for his color field paintings, but also for the pain and suffering behind them. He once said that if you only see the colors, you're missing the point. Maybe that's why he has always been a favorite of mine.

Turning License Plates into 2024 Goals & Intentions

I can’t help but see signs in everything that passes my line of sight, especially if it is something out of the ordinary. This morning, on my drive home from visiting my daughter, I saw an out-of-state license plate that passed me with an abbreviation for the word "consistency," and I thought, “Are you trying to tell me something, spirit?” Laughing out loud as I plan my 2024 intentions, trying not to act like they’re goals, ha-ha, but they truly are, and if I’m being honest with myself, I’m grateful for them because life should never remain stagnant or be a repeat year of the same old, same old. I find within myself not knowing how I’m going to push myself this upcoming year—whether spiritually, mentally, or physically. It can get daunting, don’t you think?

As I reflect on the sign and the notion of consistency, I recognize the importance of incorporating this principle into the year ahead. My guides often speak in terms of small moves and baby steps, emphasizing that, regardless of how tiny, one's movement forward is progress. I believe we often place undue pressure on ourselves to achieve lofty goals within a short timeframe, when, in reality, it's about the journey, not the speed in which we get there.

So, on this lovely night of a full moon, December 26th, 2023, I’m going to work on my small yet achievable goals toward my grand wishes and desires without judgment or pressure, just pure love for the journey and excitement about any new adventures that come my way in the next 12 months ahead.

Wishing you all a most beautiful and wondrous New Year filled with small, meaningful steps toward your dreams.