#personal development inspiration motivation change great questions enjoy life transformation change your life how to ask great ques

[alltimebestbooks]

Top 10 Books Must Read Today Generation

1. The Rudest Book Ever by Shwetabh Gangwar

Shwetabh Gangwar is a professional problem-solver—and he’s ace at it. For the past five years, people from all over the world have contacted him with their troubles and he’s worked these out for them.

In the process, he has picked up on a simple pattern: people need a set of principles and perspectives to protect them from all the unnecessary bullshit they go through. Codes to live by, essentially.

But be warned: Gangwar has no desire to spare your feelings. What you will find in this straight-forward, straight-talking, no-craps-given guide, is:

How to deal with rejections of all kinds

How to change your perceptions of people so you don’t end up screwed

Why a society that sees people as ‘good and bad’ is dumb

How the search for happiness screws us over

How seeking approval and acceptance kills our individuality

The truth about social media influencers

Why we should be taught ‘how to think’, instead of ‘what to think’

Laying out clear principles, YouTube megastar Gangwar shows you how to deal with the shit that has happened to you, is happening to you and will happen to you.

A refreshing, easy-to-read, and relatable guide, The Rudest Book Ever will make you rethink everything you’ve been taught.`

2. Do It Today: Overcome Procrastination, Improve Productivity, and Achieve More Meaningful Things

Are you also tired of putting off your dreams until “tomorrow?” Guess what! Tomorrow never comes. Am I right?

I’ve procrastinated and putt off my desire to write a book for a decade. I always came up with excuses like, “it’s not the right time.” Or, “I need to do more research.”

But in 2015 I got tired of this endless procrastination, and finally took action. Six months later, my first book was published.

Look, we all have limited time on our hands. And we’re getting closer to death every single minute. That shouldn’t scare. That should motivate you!

Time is limited, that’s why we must do the things we want: Today.

In this “best of” collection, I’ve handpicked 30 of my best articles that help you to overcome procrastination, improve your productivity, and achieve all the things you always wanted.

Plus, I’ve written an extensive introduction about my life and work philosophy.

And I’ve made many improvements and edits to the articles. So the content of this book is different from the articles on my site.

In Do It Today, you’ll learn:

1.Why we procrastinate and how we can overcome it

2.How to increase your productivity without being stressful

3.How to achieve more meaningful things in your life so you can enjoy it more

Are you ready to start reading this book?

If so: Do it today—not tomorrow.

3. The Lean Startup: How Constant Innovation Creates Radically Successful Businesses

The Lean Startup is a new approach to business that's being adopted around the world. It is changing the way companies are built and new products are launched.

The Lean Startup is about learning what your customers really want. It's about testing your vision continuously, adapting and adjusting before it's too late. Now is the time to think Lean.

4. Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

One of the most valuable skills in our economy is becoming increasingly rare. If you master this skill, you'll achieve extraordinary results.

Deep Work is an indispensable guide to anyone seeking focused success in a distracted world.

'Deep work' is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task. Coined by author and professor Cal Newport on his popular blog Study Hacks, deep work will make you better at what you do, let you achieve more in less time and provide the sense of true fulfilment that comes from the mastery of a skill. In short, deep work is like a superpower in our increasingly competitive economy.

And yet most people, whether knowledge workers in noisy open-plan offices or creatives struggling to sharpen their vision, have lost the ability to go deep - spending their days instead in a frantic blur of email and social media, not even realising there's a better way.

A mix of cultural criticism and actionable advice, DEEP WORK takes the reader on a journey through memorable stories -- from Carl Jung building a stone tower in the woods to focus his mind, to a social media pioneer buying a round-trip business class ticket to Tokyo to write a book free from distraction in the air -- and surprising suggestions, such as the claim that most serious professionals should quit social media and that you should practice being bored.

Put simply: developing and cultivating a deep work practice is one of the best decisions you can make in an increasingly distracted world and this book will point the way.

5. Understanding Millennials: A guide to working with todays generation

Have you often wondered, "What's wrong with this younger generation?" Or, "Why are these younger workers so lazy?" How about this one, "How do I get these Millennials to work harder?" If you still think that you can change the Millennials to make them fit into your business model, you, my friend, are wrong. We have to think on a bigger scale, and answer the question "How can we use this generation's strengths to make our business better?" In this minibook instead of trying to find ways to get this generation to stop acting the way they do, we figure out ways to inspire them to work harder no matter how they act. The tips and tricks in this book not only work for Millennials but can be used to inspire others in your employ as well. Put these ideas and beliefs into practice quickly and thoroughly, and watch your business grow not just fiscally but in emotional bonds as well. Your staff won't just respect you, they will follow you! The best way to read the book is with your current business trends and office staff in mind.

6. Sita: Warrior of Mithila

Immerse yourself in book 2 of the Ram Chandra series, based on the Ramayana, the story of Lady Sita, written by the multi-million bestselling Indian Author Amish; the author who has transformed Indian Fiction with his unique combination of mystery, mythology, religious symbolism and philosophy. In this book, you will follow Lady Sita's journey from an Adopted Child to the Prime Minister to finding her true calling. You will find all the familiar characters you have heard of, like Lord Ram and Lord Lakshman and see more of Lord Hanuman and many others from Mithila. You will also start discovering the true purpose of the Vayuputras and Malayaputras and their conflicting ideologies that leads to plot twists, politics and intrigue as they try to influence outcomes from behind the scenes.

She is the warrior we need. The Goddess we await.

She will defend Dharma. She will protect us.

India, 3400 BCE.

India is beset with divisions, resentment and poverty. The people hate their rulers. They despise their corrupt and selfish elite. Chaos is just one spark away. Outsiders exploit these divisions. Raavan, the demon king of Lanka, grows increasingly powerful, sinking his fangs deeper into the hapless Sapt Sindhu.

Two powerful tribes, the protectors of the divine land of India, decide that enough is enough. A saviour is needed. They begin their search.

An abandoned baby is found in a field. Protected by a vulture from a pack of murderous wolves. She is adopted by the ruler of Mithila, a powerless kingdom, ignored by all. Nobody believes this child will amount to much. But they are wrong.

For she is no ordinary girl. She is Sita.

Continue the epic journey with Amish’s latest: A thrilling adventure that chronicles the rise of an adopted child, who became the prime minister. And then, a Goddess.

This is the second book in the Ram Chandra Series. A sequel that takes you back. Back before the beginning.

7. The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning, Elevate Your Life

Part manifesto for mastery, part playbook for genius-grade productivity and part companion for a life lived beautifully, the 5 am club is a work that will transform your life. Forever.

Legendary leadership and elite performance expert Robin Sharma introduced The 5 AM Club concept over twenty years ago, based on a revolutionary morning routine that has helped his clients maximize their productivity, activate their best health and bulletproof their serenity in this age of overwhelming complexity.

Now, in this life-changing book, handcrafted by the author over a rigorous four year period, you will discover the early-rising habit that has helped so many accomplish epic results while upgrading their happiness, helpfulness and feelings of aliveness.

Through an enchanting—and often amusing—story about two struggling strangers who meet an eccentric tycoon who becomes their secret mentor, The 5 AM Club will walk you through:

How great geniuses, business titans and the world’s wisest people start their mornings to produce astonishing achievements

A little-known formula you can use instantly to wake up early feeling inspired, focused and flooded with a fiery drive to get the most out of each day

A step-by-step method to protect the quietest hours of daybreak so you have time for exercise, self-renewal and personal growth

A neuroscience-based practice proven to help make it easy to rise while most people are sleeping, giving you precious time for yourself to think, express your creativity and begin the day peacefully instead of being rushed

“Insider-only” tactics to defend your gifts, talents and dreams against digital distraction and trivial diversions so you enjoy fortune, influence and a magnificent impact on the world

8. Mahatma Gandhi Autobiography: The Story Of My Experiments With Truth

This unusual autobiography “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”, is a window to the workings of Mahatma Gandhi’s mind – a window to the emotions of his heart – a window to understanding what drove this seemingly ordinary man to the heights of being the father of a nation – India. Starting with his days as a boy, Gandhi takes one through his trials and turmoils and situations that moulded his philosophy of life – going through child marriage, his studies in England, practicing Law in South Africa – and his Satyagraha there – to the early beginnings of the Independence movement in India. He did not aim to write an autobiography but rather share the experience of his various experiments with truth to arrive at what he perceived as Absolute Truth – the ideal of his struggle against racism, violence and colonialism.

9. How to Enjoy Your Life and Your Job

If you are not satisfied with your job and often struggle to achieve a work-life balance, you’ve picked the right book! “Count your blessings—not your troubles!” From ways to finding peace and happiness to insights on how to deal with people and make them like you at once, this book introduces good working habits and includes valuable advice on how to drive away the fatigue-producing boredom. With suggestions on how to relax and churn out the most of oneself and bring a sense of fulfilment, harmony and purpose, Dale Carnegie’s classic bestseller, How to Enjoy your Life and your Job, continues to help people reassess their approach to life, people and job and also helps them discover their strengths and talents.

10. Yoga and Stress Management

Yoga & stress management is a therapeutic guide for those dealing with mental and physical stress, as well as a reference book for healthy living. Although urban work culture has greatly improved the individual economic status, it has grossly diminished br Nature’s endowments. While modern psychology effectively helps in creating an awareness of what causes this, the Yoga philosophy is capable of changing one’s overall attitude towards life. This book combines both and provides valuable guidelines, tips, and techniques. Yoga offers the complete toolkit to deal with psychological and psycho-somatic disorders that are globally on the rise. With yogic techniques one can understand the nature of human consciousness and attain its higher stages. Using yogic practices like meditation and Pranayama, one can delve deep within and connect the body and mind to the inner self. By enhancing the latent energy in man, yoga offers a holistic solution to erase conflicts, suppression, and sensitivity.

[noelpinnock1]

“Into the Unknown! – Part I”

Author Noel Pinnock, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC

www.noelpinnock.com

 Merriam-Webster (MW) defines “mind,” in the noun tense, as the element or complex of elements in an individual that feels, perceives, thinks, wills, and reason. Furthermore, MW defines “set” as to put, lay, or stand (something) in a specified place or position. When you concatenate these words, we arrive at mindset. This compound word is so powerful that it can drive countries as well as individuals, alike, into mass turmoil or elevate them to great prosperity. The interesting thing about mindset is that it vacillates because its nature is predicated on situations and circumstances. We all have internal processes that govern our growth and development. Some may have a fixed mindset; therefore, growth and development can be limited. While others have a learning mindset and adjustments are made along our life’s journey. Whether fixed or learning, a mindset  is a set of assumptions, methods, or notations held by one or more people or groups of people and can also be seen as arising out of a person's world view or philosophy of life. Our mindset or logic box is our collection of knowledge, attitudes, skills, and habits (KASH) that often limit our perception and acts as a restriction on objective thought and creative expression. What is in your mindset? What are your views and perspectives that have eroded some of your best intentions with unintended consequences?

In 1972, one of the best-known slogans in public-service was “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” The United Negro College Fund ran this slogan in print, radio, and television as an intentional campaign to close a persistent gap between African Americans and other groups in college completion. They understood then as we know today that in a land that is constantly going through entropy only the learned will survive. We can no longer rest on the scaffold of mediocrity and not take the leap into the unknown.

The animated movie Frozen 2 was a mega-billion dollar hit at the box office and the soundtrack was equally successful on the music charts. One song, most notably, Into the Unknown, aligns with the perspectives of this article, in huge part because we fear what we don’t know, and many don’t ever like asking questions because it will make others believe that we don’t know thus the paradox.  Check out the first to verses of the song:

“I can hear you but I won't Some look for trouble while others don't There's a thousand reasons I should go about my day And ignore your whispers which I wish would go away.

 You're not a voice, you're just a ringing in my ear And if I heard you, which I don't, I'm spoken for I fear Everyone I've ever loved is here within these walls I'm sorry, secret siren, but I'm blocking out your calls I've had my adventure, I don't need something new I'm afraid of what I'm risking if I follow you”

 These words are very powerful for a seminal audience to comprehend but if you dissect its meaning, you will understand the humanistic nature of individuals whose mindset has been hindered or restricted because they don’t want to leave the porch, get out of the boat, or take the leap into the unknown. The unknown is scary and unpredictable. It isn’t something that we are used to. We prefer routine and certainty but as I have always told my staff, certainty is the enemy and uncertainty an ally. Our 10-year old daughter sang this song so much during the Frozen 2’s hey-day that I became so curious that I woke one early Saturday morning to watch it for myself.

The movie’s plot was rich, and it captivated me. Elsa the Snow Queen has an extraordinary gift -- the power to create ice and snow. But no matter how happy she is to be surrounded by the people of Arendelle, Elsa finds herself strangely unsettled. After hearing a mysterious voice call out to her, Elsa travels to the enchanted forests and dark seas beyond her kingdom -- an adventure that soon turns into a journey of self-discovery. Synoptically, Elsa discovers that the voice calling to her was the memory of young Iduna's call; that her powers were given to her by nature because of Iduna's selfless act of saving Agnarr; and that Elsa herself is the fifth spirit who would break the water dam that would save their kingdom.

You see, the voice calling Elsa (like you and me) into the unknown was challenging her mindset and comfort zone. She was doing just fine after Frozen 1 but there was an agitation that persisted and kept her up at night, trepidatious and reluctant to escape from the comfort the has confined her perspectives. We all get comfortable and enjoy what comfort brings. Many people see comfort as an adjective, describing an attribute or something, when, in fact, comfort is a noun.

Comfort enters your home as a guest, remains as your host, and will eventually become your master. Comfort is a silent killer and has been charged with homicides in careers, families, marriages, and almost every place imaginable where growth and development are quintessential factors to success. Our limited KASH affects our ability to create or solve problems in two important ways: it heavily influences the kind of opportunities or problems that we recognize as being important enough to create (opportunities) and/or solve (problems); and it influences the analysis of the potential (opportunities) and cause (problems) and therefore the proper course of action to maximize the opportunities in life or to minimize the duplication of problems that have been solved in our past. What’s the definition of insanity? There, you got it, doing the same thing while expecting different results or better yet…being fearful of entering the unknown.  

Our mindset should be challenged. We should have a desire to grow but that’s not innate in us. Physically speaking, our bodies do this on the regular. When we are hot, our bodies don’t sit there and internally combust. No, our bodies respond to the external stimuli by sweating to ensure we don’t overheat and dehydrate in the process. If the hairs in our nose tickle a bit, we sneeze. In other words, our bodies respond to external forces and are not going to be suppressed by anything.

Like our physical nature, our psyche (not psychic) nature, which comprises of our mind, will, and emotions should, like a thermostat, adjust to the external environment to maintain the proper climate in our lives. To do this we must be committed to the foundational premise of continuous learning and development. Without challenging ourselves, we subscribe to an internal newsletter whose content never changes. Imagine that, picking up a magazine and reading the same articles over and over again. Certainly, the cure to insomnia. So, if you want to challenge your mindset and are daring to enter the unknown to discover and unlock your internal talents and gifts, you must evict comfort because comfort is the enemy of change. Not to mention, we must dismiss the notion that nobody likes “change” but a wet baby.

Apostle Paul, whose mindset was drastically change on the Damascus Road, wrote that we are not to be conformed to the ways of the world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds or mindset. He realized, like we should, that transformation doesn’t end with age or experience, but it continues daily as we invent and reinvent ourselves. If you can agree with this, then you must establish parameters to keep your mind percolating and hungry for more.

Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim the English Channel in 1926, on her second attempt. 19-year-old Gertrude Ederle swam 21 miles from Dover, England, to Cape Griz-Nez across the English Channel, which separates Great Britain from the northwestern tip of France. On August 6, 1926, Ederle entered the water at Cape Gris-Nez in France at 7:08 a.m. to make her second attempt at the Channel. The water was predictably cold as she started out that morning, but unusually calm. Twice that day, however–at noon and 6 p.m.–Ederle encountered squalls along her route and Burgess urged her to end the swim. Ederle’s father and sister, though, who were riding in the boat along with Burgess, agreed with Ederle that she should stay the course. Ederle’s father had promised her a new roadster at the conclusion of the swim, and for added motivation he called out to her in the water to remind her that the roadster was only hers if she finished. Ederle persevered through storms and heavy swells, and, finally, at 9:04 p.m. after 14 hours and 31 minutes in the water, she reached the English coast, becoming the sixth person and first woman to swim the Channel successfully. Furthermore, she had bettered the previous record by two hours.

Afterwards, Ederle told Alec Rutherford of The New York Times, “I knew it could be done, it had to be done, and I did it.” She went on to say that she was successful the second time around, not because of the incentives outlined by her father but because she possessed a mindset that failure was not an option. She started the journey with intentionality to reaching the English coast. It was in her mind from the beginning even though she felt like giving up and her body became fatigued. She was set on not breaking the record but breaking up the comfort in her mindset that would oftentimes tell her she wasn’t capable, or the feat was impossible.

What has kept you anchored in a position of mediocrity? What has prevented you from going to the next level? I can guarantee you this…that something would be your mind. The richest place on the planet, found in every place across the globe, is the graveyard – filled with so many people who could have, would have, and should have, but for many (not all) were scared to enter the unknown. I am inspired by these words myself, and will likely archive this article because I, like you, will no longer be afraid to enter the unknown, because when we are there, we can unlock some of our life’s greatest experiences and moments. There I say again, let’s #getatit!

[patheticphallacy]

This is going to be a really difficult introduction to my wrap up.

Unfortunately, on September 18th my dad passed away. He was only 50 years old. I won’t go into details because of how personal it is, but he was in hospital a majority of the month before he passed. I’ve taken a year suspension from University for the time being.

It has been a really difficult time for myself and my family. I’ve turned a lot to books and blogging to offer a way to occupy my mind which is why so many things still seem to be coming out, but I cannot say that this will hold up after the funeral.

As I schedule so many posts, a lot of what came out this month has been written since around mid August and I did not find the time to stop the University posts before they were released. I won’t be deleting them.

I hope you’ll all understand.

THINGS I’VE READ

    An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley– My sister gave me her copy she used for her GCSE’s. Such a great play with revelation after revelation, left me on the edge of my seat. While I knew the core plot twist, I didn’t predict that ending. 

Mob Psycho 100 Volume 1 by One– This was kind of meh. It’s one of my best friend’s favourites, so I’ll carry it on eventually, but I don’t really feel the urge to pick volume two up just yet. I will say I like how the anime tackles the same events in a different order to save major revelations for backstory– that was really interesting to pick up on. 

I Call Upon Thee by Ania Ahlborn– I really didn’t like this! Lacklustre and very cliched, feel like it doesn’t really offer anything other than annoying ending and characters who go through absolutely no development at all. 

Kissing Tolstoy by Penny Reid– An OK romance that actually has discussions surrounding reading and books that don’t feel forced. I found this easy to read even though I’ve never read any Russian Lit, and I actually want to read it more now. Like that it discusses age gaps and issues of the power dynamic too. 

    Seven Tears at High Tide by C.B. Lee– Finally finished this one, and it only took me 3 months. A very cute and heartwarming story about a boy who makes a wish and falls in love with a Selkie. Does get ridiculous at the end, I must say, but I was happy with the payoff. 

The Tea Dragon Society by Katie O’Neill– Katie O’Neill creates such amazing narratives that have wonderful messages about society and being true to yourself and your wishes, pursuing something that you love and encouraging others to do the same. 

Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin– How can I ever trust a single man or old person after this book? Tell me. 

Please Undo This Hurt by Seth Dickinson– Don’t really rate this short story. It bored me and I hated the main characters, not even in a good way. Just perpetuates the ‘I can save you from your mental illness’ narrative that is dull and overdone by this point. 

    My Hero Academia Volume 20 by Kohei Horikoshi– Gentle Criminal and La Brava was so boring, the School Festival arc was fabulous, and Endeavor finally got his ass kicked! Yay! 

Aphrodite Made Me Do It by Trista Mateer– I have a review of this coming out soon for National Poetry Day in the UK, but if you don’t want to wait, I have a review here!

The Quiet Boy by Nick Antosca– I read this after watching the trailer for Antlers, and I thought it was pretty neat! Very thrilling, although I’m bothered by changes being made in the film that I feel could detract from having Julia as one of the main characters in the film. 

I Am Not Your Final Girl by Claire C. Holland– A collection of poetry centring around fictional women from horror films, exploring their empowerment and agency in a genre and a wider culture and society that seems willing to beat them down until they break. 

Alice Isn’t Dead by Joseph Fink– I have a review of this linked later this post! Full of body horror and emotional trauma, this is a really solid read great for fans of the podcast and Welcome to Night Vale. 

    In the Shadow of Spindrift House by Mira Grant– I love this terrible cover! Keep an eye out for my review of this, it’s coming out soon. 

The World’s Greatest First Love Volume 1 by Shungiku Nakamura– The publishing elements and the main character were GREAT, but there is prevalent sexual assault in this that is never addressed and is incredibly insensitive in its treatment, so I don’t recommend this manga. 

Dead Voices by Katherine Arden– I didn’t enjoy this one as much as Small Spaces, but it’s still really freaky and a great middle grade read. I love that Coco gets her own POV in this, too, and that it doesn’t take stereotypical routes with some of its plotlines. 

No One Is Too Small To Make a Difference by Greta Thunberg– This is a collection of speeches Greta Thunberg has made addressing climate change, as well as her own position as an advocate for the cause. Moving and a must read, in my opinion. It’s only £3 in Waterstones at the moment for anyone who wants to pick it up!

    Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury– A fascinating collection of essays written by Bradbury about his writing process and some of the more popular works he’s published. I honestly felt really inspired and motivated after reading this, I highly recommend it especially for creative writers, but just be warned it is very oriented around the white male experience.

Heartstopper Volume 2 by Alice Oseman– I adore Heartstopper and I love this second volume. Great progression in the relationship between Nick and Charlie, and we’re getting to see more outside of their relationship and into their friendships and family dynamics, too. I still love Tori Spring!

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle– Finally got a hold of the MASSIVE audiobook where Stephen Fry narrates all the Holmes stories, and it honestly made the experience so much more enjoyable. I think Doyle’s skill lies more in shorter fiction than longer fiction, I think there’s less opportunity for… not useless, per se, just unneeded waffling. 

Giant Days Volume 9 and 10 by John Allison– These two volumes take place around the tailend of the girl’s second years and follows their accommodation location, the progression (and breakdown) of relationships, and them finally making it to third year intact. I honestly can’t believe there’s only three or four volumes left in this series, its been a constant companion for me since 2016 when I first started and I really don’t want to let it go. 

  No Touching At All and Even So, I Will Love You Tenderly by Kou Yoneda– Of the ‘older’ manga I’ve read that focus on the relationships between two men, these two are definitely in the ‘recommend’ pile. Other than the beautiful names for the volumes and the artwork being really pretty, I really enjoyed the developing relationships and the conversations had about workplace homophobia and ostracization in Japan, although that wasn’t the main focus. They do include some questionable attitudes towards identification of sexuality– two characters in both volumes are probably bisexual or on that spectrum, but are referred to as straight more than once for liking women and only the man they enter the relationship with. It’s complicated, but nothing in either volumes ever feels targeted or hateful, just lacking education on the nuances of sexuality. 

Articles

I found this article about Friends great as it breaks down issues I’ve had with the show for years. I don’t have a lot of attachment to it, honestly, I mostly just put it on in the background, but I think I’ll stop now. I’ve always found the handling of gender and sexuality damaging in Friends, as well as the overwhelming fatphobia.

I really enjoyed looking through this list The Guardian did of the 100 best books of the 21st century. I don’t know why, I’m just a big fan of lists!

Before reading this article, I can honestly tell you I knew nothing about Susan Sontag beyond her name. It’s deconstructing her queerness and how her aversion to accepting her own sexuality ultimately ruled a lot of the work she produced in her life.

God, this article was fascinating. I can’t even tell you what it’s about, really, other than that it’s an interview with Christeene, a punk drag artist who is just really cool, honestly. There are some buttholes for anyone who… wants to avoid butts? Or reading this at work?

There was a massive conversation in August that carried into September regarding the rise in men adopting pseudonyms to get their thriller novels published. This Atlantic article particularly captured the issues I have with men who do this, who are almost trying to fool an audience of women who trust women writers to not approach the suffering of women through a misogynistic lens, as is so common in modern society.

An older article by The New Inquiry, Coming out of the Coffin offers an insight into the fraught relationship between Bram Stoker and Oscar Wilde. A really interesting read, I’m just sad I discovered it 7 years after its release!

THINGS I WATCHED

I don’t do music sections on these wrap ups anymore, so I’ll put this here: the GRAACE cover of ‘Complicated’ by Avril Lavigne completely transforms the song and adds such an amazing depth to it

I decided to binge watch Fleabag and it’s most definitely the best decision I’ve made all year. Fleabag follows the titular woman as she navigates her life as a thirty year old woman whose entire life is in flux, and has been since the death of her mother. There’s a lot I could say about this show, honestly. What really stood out to me was how much I could relate specifically to the emotions Fleabag and her older sister Claire feel in relation to each other, and their grief. Seeing them still come back together even after such a significant loss, their dependency, really gives me strength to get through what I’m experiencing at the moment, so Fleabag has been something I can relate to and look at as hope for a future where I can begin to wrap my head around the terrible things going on around me.

THINGS I POSTED

August Wrap Up

TTT: Books Outside My Comfort Zone

50 Bookish Questions Tag

Music I Enjoyed This Summer

Connie’s Personal 101 Guide For Personal Survival of University

Bookshelf Tour Part 3: TBR & More Manga/Comics

Book Review: I Call Upon Thee by Ania Ahlborn

TTT: Books on my Fall TBR

Book Review: Alice Isn’t Dead by Joseph Fink

Bookshelf Tour Part 4: CDs&DVDs

If you liked this post, consider buying me a coffee? Ko-Fi. 

Goodreads|Twitter|Instagram|Letterboxd

September Wrap Up This is going to be a really difficult introduction to my wrap up. Unfortunately, on September 18th my dad passed away.

[gurumuscle]

How to improve your life? Transformative change with CrossFit.

How CrossFit can help change your life? Heal your life with the Guru Muscle community.

In this article, we're going to talk about how CrossFit can be a great way to improve your life. You may ask yourself How to change your life for the better physique?

  What is CrossFit and how did it start?

CrossFit was originally designed by Greg Glassman in 2001, described as a performance-based fitness program that focuses on functional movement. It is a strength training style workout with free weights that pushes your physical activity to the sky. It's functional training that helps you to lose weight if you really work hard. It consists of constantly varied, high intensity and functional movements performed at relatively low impact to increase the body's ability to adapt and recover.

CrossFit is a training program that focuses on fitness, strength and power. It makes your physical activity 100% better. CrossFit has evolved over the years to be more than just an exercise program. It now has a community of people who come together to live their lives in ways that are more meaningful and fulfilling.

CrossFit combines standard strength training, explosive plyometrics, speed training, Olympic weightlifting, kettlebells, shadowboxing, gymnastics and endurance exercise in order to improve the five (5) major components of physical fitness: cardiorespiratory fitness, stamina, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, power and speed.

CrossFit workouts typically focus on explosive, whole-body exercises. The main CrossFit moves include pushing, pulling, running, rowing, and squatting.

  What are the benefits of CrossFit?

The benefits of CrossFit are endless. CrossFit training is a form of functional fitness, which helps increase strength, endurance, flexibility, balance and mobility. One of the most important is its ability to decrease body fat. It is a different kind of workout that will get you out of your comfort zone and to your next level. With an intense cardio workout, intense weight workouts, and a wide variety of exercises that work out different areas of your body, there is no limit to what you can achieve. It is also an effective way to increase your metabolism, burn calories, and maintain overall health. CrossFit has helped individuals improve their strength and cardiovascular health. It also helps people lose weight, get stronger, and improve their overall quality of life. A study found that CrossFit can lead to an increased risk of injury. It also has negative effects on your body and mental health.

CrossFit is not just for competitive athletes, but bodybuilders and powerlifters might benefit from brief periods of training to mix up their routine. This is a very effective way of improving your life and mindfulness.

  It's more interesting than the same old gym routine

CrossFit is not your typical gym workout. The workouts are intense with high intensity and short rest periods, but they're also fun. It allows for a transformative change in your life.

1. It makes you actually want to work out.

2. It can help you with physical and mental health issues.

3. It is fun and challenging.

4. It is designed to improve your life.

5. And you find your gym buddy with the same interest as yours.

  You can start with a burpee

This is an exercise that involves beginning in a standing position, quickly dropping to the floor and doing a push-up, then coming up to a squatting position and explosively jumping straight up. You squat down as far as your thighs will go before quickly standing back up and stepping over the barbell you’ve just pressed overhead.

CrossFit also often uses kettlebells (a weighted ball with a handle on top), medicine balls, climbing ropes, jump ropes, resistance bands and rowing machines.

It turns you into a weightlifter

Many people are not aware of the health benefits that come with staying in shape. There are many different workout routines to choose from, but it's important to find one that is interesting and fun.

"I was turned on to Crossfit and I'm still a huge fan of the workout. Especially weight lifting. The workouts are not easy by any means, but they're effective and transformational" David said.

It is very important to stay in shape, so it is best if you do not go on diets so hard but you do lift weights along with healthy foods. When you lift weights, your body will build muscle and make you stronger. Weightlifting is a way to keep yourself in shape and gives you self-confidence in what you actually do. It is not easy to start weight lifting, but with time and dedication, you will get the hang of it. If you don't know how best to start, use a local personal trainer who will give you good advice on exercise equipment such as kettle bells, bars, dumbbells, medicine balls etc.

  How does CrossFit affect your body?

It's not the kind of workout that people who are new to exercise or fitness may want to try. This is why it helps if you have a good plan. Here are some examples of transformative changes that have helped people improve their lives with CrossFit.

It has many benefits you would really enjoy. People usually ask "What is the journey of changes?" This is a very common question asked to those who have taken on a new CrossFit training regime. It's not an easy journey and requires a lot of time and effort.

Don't know how to find purpose in Crossfit? Healing your life has never been easier. Read some comments below from the team Guru Muscle.

"I would say that the most important thing you can do to improve your life is to get a membership. The benefits of this type of fitness are that you will get in the best shape of your life, have tons of energy, and feel great. This is an authentic life I live in. Heavy lifting is my passion now." David, personal trainer.

"I started CrossFit 3 years ago. It was really an emotional change and experience. I was even getting more energy with small changes. I started doing CrossFit as a way to improve my life and make me feel healthier." Marketa said.

"I was frustrated because I wasn't getting anywhere with my work. Then one day, something changed for me and my attitude started changing. Weight lifting is my new life and I fell in love with it from the first week." Patrik said.

"CrossFit has helped me to develop a better understanding of my body's mechanics. I have learned things about my body and movement that I never knew. My goal now is to become a personal trainer and I'm pretty sure I'll get perfect advice in our CrossFit gym." Martin said.

  Some of the most common mistakes people make when doing Crossfit

Some of the most common mistakes people make when doing Crossfit are not going at a pace that they can sustain and trying to do too much too soon.

It's always a good idea to ask your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

One of the most common mistakes everyone makes when doing Crossfit is not working with a personal trainer. You'll need to work with a coach who exactly knows how he can help you to start with.

Beginners should go at a slower pace so they can learn proper techniques before moving to the next level. They should also understand what exercise equipment they need to use.

Change yourself change your life

Change your mind change your life with CrossFit. It not only helps with weight loss but also provides the necessary training for your overall fitness. These are the types of changes that can be made through fitness. Keep your life in balance between family, quality food and sports like Crossfit.

Anyone can do CrossFit, which is scalable to work for people of all fitness levels. But CrossFit workouts are no joke. You don't just need physical strength if you're trying CrossFit especially when you train with barbells, bars, kettlebells or just a simple burpee. You also need mental strength.

Your gym buddy becomes your best friend. CrossFit is a supportive community and helps you to transform your life because of the support it provides every day. The amount of motivation you get you won't see anywhere else.

  So what's your life plan?

Only you can change your lifestyle. You can start by measuring your BMI here. Also, don't forget to sign up for our Facebook group where you can get some tips and ideas on any type of workout. Social media is a great way how you could get some inspiration from the CrossFit community and where you can find your gym buddy. You can also join us at CrossFit games in 2022 and meet our team.

#crossfit #fitness #gurumuscle #workout #training #australia #healthylife #sport #gym #burpee #gymshark #gymlovers #prague #lifestyle #diet #bikini #mrolympia

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[gatedress93]

What Are The Advantages Of Self Self-Confidence?

Have A Look At These Top Organization Coaches That You Need To Know.

Content

What Does A Business Coach Do?

Trains Aid Set Objectives And Hold Magnate Answerable.

More Continuing Reading Self Confidence Building.

Last Ideas On Being A Positive Lady.

Vinyasa + Weight Lifting: Tips From New York Giants' Coach Gwen Lawrence.

Ipec Training.

The completed worksheet can be kept helpful for the following time you're really feeling low in self-esteem and also require a boost. Keeping a self-confidence journal is an excellent method for kids to start thinking of the good things that they do and also experience, establishing them up for a favorable outlook on life. This worksheet notes three-sentence completion motivates for every day of the week, beginning with Monday.

will supply you with impressive individual understanding, permitting you to completely alter any restricting belief systems that are detrimentally influencing your life in just five or six regular sessions. If you feel that you have a lack of self-confidence or self confidence as well as if it is triggering issues in your life after that call me today and become the person you would love to be Also if you're a social butterfly, spending some purposeful time alone can assist you reconnect with the activities that truly make you happy. A positive perspective is typically a good thing, however bad things occur to everyone. Repeat this process numerous times, till you start to feel yourself relax.

What is coercive style of leadership?

Coercive leadership is a command and control style. It relies on forcing people to do what you tell them, whether they want to or not.

Certainly, if those people had low self-esteem, they passed it on, also if they were inspired by the ideal intentions. Donating, volunteering, and also helping others that are much less privileged, not just assists take the emphasis off your very own concerns, yet it additionally makes you feel excellent recognizing you are aiding others.

Instead of obtaining caught up in what you do not have that others do, focus on what it is that you do have. When you concentrate on being happy for the important things that you do have, you begin to really feel happier with your life and also more self-assured. Any person can do it." This brings about sensations that we haven't attained a lot with our lives, harming self-confidence. Anytime something negative stands out right into your mind, combat those thoughts by making a note of something positive (i.e. a checklist of your positive characteristics) till positive self-talk comes to be a habit.

What Does A Business Coach Do?

What is Arrow coaching model?

The client is choosing the direction, setting their „arrow“and decides how to launch it. Going straight in the target – like an arrow – this coaching model is supporting the coach to guide the client in the desired direction in a clear, powerful and effective way.

Trainers Help Establish Goals And Also Hold Business Leaders Liable.

Breaking a sweat likewise signs the body to release endorphins, the feel-good hormones. Basically, self-confidence is your point of view of on your own and your abilities. While everybody periodically has questions about themselves, reduced self-worth can leave you really feeling troubled as well as uninspired.

The reviewer is after that able to see how other people have reacted, which can make him/her really feel validated and most likely to proceed assessing (i.e. accomplish an essential function for the internet site totally free). Human actions is driven by demands, among which is the need for a feeling of personal significance, worth or self-confidence. Esteem is borne out in our wish for social acceptance and also standing. Despite exactly how big or tiny our group is and the nature of the groups we are connected with, we have an ingrained requirement for authorization as well as validation from various other participants of culture. Various other troubles may develop from a failure to attain recognition and approval such as reduced self-esteem and also an inferiority complex.

This is additionally a great time to determine as well as confront any unfavorable views that you have regarding on your own. Starred evaluations-- When customers leave testimonials for products of some kind, various other individuals are regularly able to state whether the review worked or otherwise. For instance, Amazon customers can click 'Yes' or 'No' in feedback to the concern 'Was this review helpful to you?

Further Continuing Reading Self Confidence Building.

Actually, researches show that doing more points in your life that you can be happy with increases your self-worth, which aids you really feel far better about your self. Psychotherapists alert that contrasts only result in an adverse self-image, which can bring about inadequate self-worth, stress and anxiety, as well as stress and anxiety that consequently can wreck your job, partnerships, as well as physical as well as mental wellness.

Acknowledging where your ideas, sensations and activities intersect in various areas of your life can discover the underlying problem. It's imperative to start appreciating other people's staminas. Rather than seeing them as competition, consider it a chance to discover exactly how you can develop your own skills. This new point of view will change your disposition, relax your mind as well as aid control your feelings.

Final Ideas On Being A Certain Lady.

It also depends on the amount of wounds there are to heal, so throughout the procedure you can know that you require also some support from various other specialists. We often believe that low self-worth is a characteristic and that there's absolutely nothing we can do to transform it.

Your brain learns from repeating, so start doing this instantly and in time it will end up being second nature. If look here have the time and the means, give to charity, volunteer your time to a reason you really feel passionate concerning, and even provide blood at the regional blood bank. For lots of people, helping others provides a feeling of meaning and purpose in life. Actually, human beings are social animals and also an absence of meaningful human links can severely influence your self-confidence. The primary step in the direction of supporting a positive mindset is to associate with favorable individuals.

Vinyasa + Weight Lifting: Tips From New York Giants' Coach Gwen Lawrence.

Free "Training Conversation" with a client Advocate, to uncover your existing situation, your actual objectives and figure out if you are best served with training.

As a matter of fact, the Robbins agreement mentions that mentoring calls "may be monitored or taped" for training and also other functions.

Group mentoring is mentoring carried out with 2 or even more individuals concurrently.

A Robbins rep declared on 6/30/20 that Tony Robbins Training availables privacy, yet ONLY upon straight request by the customer.

self esteem classes have found that there are no "Coaching Certifications" that will certainly separate high quality and/or even simply qualified instructors.

Complete confidentiality between the customer as well as coach.

Instructors are restricted to reveal what takes place throughout coaching to any person, including TCC employees.

It resembles 1-on-1 coaching, other than it uses team assistance.

visit the website Coaching Colleges market "Coaching Qualifications" as component of their bundle.

Regular workout can aid to decrease stress, feelings of anxiousness, as well as symptoms of clinical depression while enhancing self-esteem and happiness. That doesn't imply you have to go around with a phony smile smudged on your face regularly.

Now that you are aware of these underlying thought patterns, you can begin to do something about it. Yet always bear in mind that self-confidence is built in the action you take, not the outcome it creates. Stop relying on the outcomes of circumstances or the responses of others to establish if you can feel excellent or not. Yes they are not pleasurable, yet they are a signs and symptom to a source.

But the next time you locate yourself really feeling reduced, break a smile and see what takes place. Or try starting each morning by smiling at yourself in the mirror. If several of these practices create added anxiety or just don't fit your way of life, ditch them. With a little time as well as practice, you'll determine what does as well as does not help you.

What makes a good leadership coach?

The best executive coaches possess conversational intelligence and can actively listen to business leaders. Coaches focus on what business leaders are saying without interruption, then respond thoughtfully—they're Socratic teachers rather than by-the-book lecturers.

You might be. able to recognize a few points that are impacting your point of view of on your own (maybe you're being bullied, or you might be feeling lonesome), or maybe a mystery. Regardless, if you are wondering just how to improve your self-esteem, right here are a few of our top tips.

Yet it isn't who you are, it's a self-belief and also it turns up with some recurring practices, which are regular to all the people affected by reduced self-esteem. We mainly learn this from our parents or other individuals that was necessary in our growth.

The time it takes to heal, development and also to finally conquer the problem depends mostly on you. You're the most vital part of the process and the more you're willing to work for it, to courageously encounter the obstacles as well as the resistance you'll likely encounter, the earlier you'll arrive. I have actually seen customers taking 3 months to make considerable modifications in their life.

If you hang out doing things you enjoy, you're more likely to assume positively. Whether that's time spent reading, food preparation or just collapsing on the couch awhile, if it makes you satisfied, make time for it. Workout is a wonderful method to increase motivation, practise setup objectives and develop self-confidence.

How do future leaders grow?

How to Develop Your Future Leaders 1. Give Them Wider Business Exposure. 2. Change Their Role and Responsibilities. 3. Challenge Them With Real Business Situations. 4. Set Support Systems in Place. 5. Provide Mentoring and Coaching. 6. Give Feedback. 7. Reward Them Fairly.

Unfavorable people can just bring you down to their degree. A lot of altering your self-talk, emphasizing your successes over your failings, and also being happy concerns maintaining a favorable mindset. Such an expectation can be difficult to grow, as our minds naturally tend to emphasize the adverse instead of the favorable.

[personalcoachingcenter]

The Co-Creative Coaching Model - Leadership Coaching

New Post has been published on https://personalcoachingcenter.com/the-co-creative-coaching-model-leadership-coaching/

The Co-Creative Coaching Model - Leadership Coaching

A Coaching Model Created by Silky Fischer-Lee (Executive Coach, SWITZERLAND)

Introduction

As organizations are dealing with constant changes in a highly complex and competitive market, many have fallen into a tendency to find quick answers. As an HR professional, working for a multinational company, I see today, more than ever, that we need transformational leadership to reshape our future.

Transformational leaders with high emotional intelligence can adapt to changes effectively, motivate, and engage people. This helps them to focus on the long-term vision. They are genuine and have a great awareness of themselves. They also hold themselves accountable for their actions with integrity. In many business organizations, coaching has been perceived as a consulting service that provides solutions to immediate needs, however, coaching is not a consulting service. It is “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential (ICF, n.a.)”. Coaching is a great way to develop transformational leaders in organizations.

The Co-Creative Coaching Model that I created is a transformational Leadership Coaching which emphasizes the power of a co-creative partnership between the coach and leaders in a coaching process.

The Co-Creative Coaching Model

The Business Dictionary (n.a.) describes the term “co-creation” as a “business strategy focusing on customer experience and interactive relationship”. It also points out the benefits of co-creation as a strategy that enables “an active involvement from the customer to create a value-rich experience”. In short, co-creation brings rich customer experience, encourages customer’s active involvement, and creates value.

My co-creative coaching model is based on the philosophy that acknowledges “we are resourceful and creative with energy, wisdom, ability, and genius waiting to be set in motion (ICA, 2018).”

This model was designed to create self-awareness, articulating learning, and improving self-management skills in a coaching process. It emphasizes building a strong partnership and trust between the coach and the client. It supports the client to enjoy a rich coaching experience, creating value in her or his personal and professional growth. The coach joins the client’s journey from right at the beginning and partners with the client throughout the process.

The model pragmatically provides the three critical paths to support the client in a journey of transformation.

Throughout the coaching process, the coach does the following:

Builds trust.

Is fully present.

Listens actively to the client.

Detaches their ego, personal experience, views, and perspectives from the client.

Uses powerful questioning techniques and direct communication to support the client in the exploration of herself or himself beyond what they think of themself. . The coach is able to challenge the client’s current thinking and create learning opportunities.

Shares the observations clearly without judgment.

Acknowledges the emotions and learning of the client and empowers the client to reframe perspectives.

Supports the clients to set SMART goals, design their actions and hold themselves accountable.

Helps the client understand the importance of continuous self-awareness, learning and self-management.

Path 1: Develop Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is considered “the foundation of personal growth and success (ICA, 2018)” and the fundamental for transformational leadership.

In this first path, the coach’s focus is on creating and developing awareness of the client, exploring the client’s value, purpose, passion, motivations, strengths, and challenges. The coach builds trust with the client. Based on the relations built on trust, the coach and the client will explore underlying beliefs and what has contributed to creating the way the client thinks, feels, and behaves. The client will be able to clarify what the drivers are of their life and work.

“The Wheel of Life”, “StrengthsFinder”,  journaling, or collecting feedback from family members, friends and colleagues are one of the useful tools that can be used to help the client develop their self-awareness.

Path 2: Articulate Learning

The focus of this path is on what the client learns. In this path, the client can articulate their learning based on the self-awareness they developed. While articulating learning, they will be open to change the way they used to think about themselves and their situations. During this process, the client can reframe their perspectives and explore growth opportunities from a different angle.

The coach is there to actively listen, be fully present, and acknowledge the learning. The coach uses powerful questions and direct communication to support the client to identify dis-empowering thoughts and perspectives. By bringing lightness the coach empowers the client

Different ICA power tools, plus my power tool can be used to support the client to reframe their perspective. The client can set “Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely” goals based on learning. The client articulates and documents the learning.

Path 3: Improve Self-Management Skills

Self-Management is about how we manage ourselves in our life. A self-managed person has great self-awareness, integrity, and self-management skills – “self-control, transparency, adaptability, achievement, initiative, and optimism” (Goleman, D., McKee, A., &Boyatzis, R., 2002, cited from Suess, 2015).

The deep self-awareness and learning from the previous two paths empower the client. The client can set “Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely” goals as a leader for this team and organization. The empowered client designs the actions and creates plans to achieve the goals. The client can articulate the vision, desired outcomes, and set the success measures. The client takes control of actions for the desired outcomes and holds themselves accountable for their actions. This path helps the client stay motivated despite challenges. It aids them to grow, adapts continuously, and learn from mistakes, all while being open to new ideas.

The coach takes full responsibility focusing on the client’s agenda. The coach can support the client through:

Listening actively.

Showing empathy.

Giving effective feedback.

Visualizing the client’s goals and desired outcomes.

Inviting the client to explore the different strategies and progress towards their goals.

Application

My Co-Creative Coaching  Model is designed for transformation leadership development as an internal coaching program in an organization. The model can be applied to individual coaching or group coaching sessions.

References

Businessdictionary.com (n.a.) co-creation (Online)Accessed 26 Apr 2020)

International Coach Academy (2018) Creating Awareness (Online)(Accessed 26 Apr 2020)

International Coach Academy (2019) Self-Management (Online)(Accessed 19 Apr 2020)

International Coach Federation (n.a.) Experiencing coaching (Online)(Accessed: 19 Apr 2020)

Suess, J. (2015) Power to the People: Why Self-Management Is Important (Online)(Accessed 27 Apr 2020)

  Learn How to Create Your Own Coaching Model

Your Coaching Model reflects your values, philosophies and beliefs and must communicate who you will coach and the problems you will solve.

Read more about creating your coaching model

Original source: 

[metalifecoach]

Why Change is Important, even when you uncertain.

Conversations for Transformation; September 2020.

How can I resolve uncertainty during a pandemic, find purpose, and improve the quality of my life?

Why do we need a big event, or disaster to make a change, or before I decide to improve my life. It has been said that people get comfortable in routines (even if circumstances create discomfort), because of the uncertainty change brings. Think about moving house, or starting a new job, the effort involved in the transition can be overwhelming, loaded with great uncertainty. On a bigger scale, a ‘Transitional Movement’ refers to an experience, or process a person or group goes through moving from a position of belief and social standing, personal, sexual, or spiritual orientation, condition of health, mental-state, or wealth, or any particular culture and business disposition to another. Such a movement allows the individual or group to function with greater growth potential, harmony, and passion for life. Power is found in how we purposefully chose the way we relate to anything that happens, instead of trying to control it or force acculturated ideas, e.g. ethnocentric principles of gender, religion, and social standing, unto others. Unfortunately, the majority of people spend most of their lives in a career, or pursuing goals that falls short of inspiration, simply because they are afraid to make the move, or don’t want to make effort to improve things. And yet, every person has a massive potential locked in the combination of their skills, talents and abilities, knowledge and life experiences that once they moved, to shift opened a path of greater significance and purpose in life.

 My personal life path radically changed direction the day I started addressing the following question; “Does compliance with my cultural or religious upbringing support an environment where I can be real, live out my dreams, express a profound spirituality, have personal significance, and ultimately … does it inspire happiness, or does it cause greater stress?” Once decided that I needed to change some things, I started paying attention to the signs and signals through the events unfolding in my life. And coincidentally it indicated for a long time that a shift in direction was needed. I was just reluctant to take the step. But once I connected with a Coach and Mentor to guide me, my journey home commenced. So today, I’m going to focus on the ingredients that constitute a winning recipe for transition.

What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail? One reason people resist change is because they focus on what they have to give up instead of what they have to gain.

Moving from what is to what if - Envisioning what can be.  

 Most people have aspirations for a better life, a dream in the heart for themselves, and a desire for the greater good of humanity. When you were a child, you believed that anything is possible, so why then did you settle for less? What happened? Is it the influence of our schooling system, expectations, and financial fears imposed by family and society, lack of belief, or practical knowledge? Or is it a matter of doubt, and cynicism thrust on you by mass media intimidation that deceived you to believe that happiness is only meant for the elect or elite? And yet, we all enjoy inspirational slogans and stories that encourage. Positively communicating and appreciating all that we as humans collectively and individually achieved in the past and can still accomplish, builds capacity for greater dreams, and hope for the future. But rarely do we create a space in our own lives for the development of the inner qualities that cultivates external skills to support those dreams, and foster trust, faith, and growth. Seeking newness in life and passion for transformation may also run out of steam when we don’t have a support structure in place to facilitate transition, recovery, and personal improvement. After another dose of complaints on Social Media about how bad things are, the shortfalls and lack of services found in society, I just wondered – Isn’t it time that we move past focusing on what is not, and instead re-imagine what can be.

Any temporary satisfaction of the fashionable haves, and comforts of peer acceptance will only outlast the next idea of someone’s video clip going viral, until you are willing to alter the beliefs that support a trend-chasing lifestyle. We know that the constant pressure and strive to acquire the next best thing is only a recipe for exhaustion. Under pressure of the expectation set by an older generation and the peer-acceptance we crave trying to adjust to the new normal people quickly get discouraged, feel a failure, lose faith in the greater good, and stop dreaming about a better future. That is until we start asking the important questions; “Without this striving to fit-in, the craving of the have-to-haves, or superimposed should-be pictures … who am I, what do I really want, and what is the purpose for life”?

There is nothing wrong with desiring only the best for yourself. But without having a clear vision of how you want to create a hopeful positive future, is like throwing a magnet into a whirlpool of the unknown, and gradually over time feeling a nudge of been drawn to a new or particular interest, passion and desire for change. And if you are willing to stay sleeping on the coach hoping for it to happen, that is also a choice. But what else can spark a dream and hope for a better future, without the need for a disastrous event to get us up from the coach? Maybe the testimony of how someone else has endured troubled circumstances, initiated a plan of action by using their own limited resources, and turned adverse conditions around to improve society, will benefit. See it’s not what happens that determines your future, but what you do about what happens. From these and other stories, we learn that hope for the future is fueled through the examples of people taking action.

What if you’re Personal Transformation cause a Transitional Movement?

 What is necessary for any person to initiate the first steps of their own growth and improvement of circumstances? It all starts with a commitment to focus on their own inner transition first - a shift in attitude, perception, orientation, and mind-set about their circumstances, and the discipline to pursue the things that will enable them to follow their true calling. It is also the basis for empowered life-decisions, because it encourages the person or group to prioritise the mechanisms that will equip them with knowledge and tools needed to express their goal to pursue purpose and personal significance – instead of waiting for an external world to change by itself. Difficult life situations may just be the catalyst that lead individuals to seek new resources and opportunities, and from seeming catastrophe may come the greatest possibilities and strength ever imagined. When you remain open and willing to flow in the school of life, this movement that is initiated by adverse circumstances, may just be the greatest transition you’ve ever encountered. There is purpose and meaning in any life-event and experience, and sometimes it is the spark we need to be authentic and discover our true purpose in life. Direction determines destination, and sometimes all you need to do is to adjust the direction a small bit to arrive at a new, and better destination.

 This is why transformative discussions are so powerful. Transformative Coaching is not meant to give you answers, but disrupt your minds excuses for failure and challenges you to discover the power of your soul. It builds on an appreciation and celebration of what has emerged in your life, even when it is an awareness of temporary shortfall, and it opens up venues for new growth through exploration of different opportunities and possible future outcomes for individuals and groups in transition.

“Appreciation is a wonderful thing; it makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.” (Voltaire). You know all of those things you’ve always wanted to do? You should go do them.

Having great ideas alone is not enough, but reflection on the direction and implementation of the vision, is wise. Many entrepreneurs and philanthropists run out of steam when they do not connect with suitable support and accountability structures to mentor their growth. While a good business-plan and strategy on paper may guide the unfolding vision for possibilities - connecting again to the motivation behind the action steps builds resilience and keep individuals motivated through transformation. When darkness, economic hardships and pandemic threat sets in, dreams, ambitions and ideals quickly run out steam. When the inner-fire is depleted, it is imperative to place support structures in place, and a reflective conversation with your spiritual counselor, or Life-Coach may keep you motivated and on track. Through supportive interaction and reflective guidance, not only is understanding gained, but newness emerges, clarity, direction, and determination is generated to take action whether for personal growth, business, or community projects.

From Concept to action steps, and rebuilding your world. 

At this point, we may ask what it is that propels change. Yes, I know we don’t like change, and interesting enough the kind of change that is mostly met with resistance is those fueled by our own grumpy discontent about not getting our way, or being unhappy with personal discomfort and shifting routines. Never give up. I know that current social and economic difficulties may cause many to feel lost and disconnected with life. When you feel you have lost your way, there is hope, and your circumstances is helping you find new direction to where you need to be and doing what you needs to do.

Transitions is more about how we are in the world during these challenges and an awareness of the meaning why we occupy this space called Earth, rather than what we do. When we address the inner tension created due to a state of affairs and disharmony, discomfort and short-fall created by irresponsible and self-centered human action, and then out of concern arise with compassion that compels you to do something to heal broken affairs. That is when we know and respond to calling. But how do you find meaning and direction in all this chaos?

Finding your purpose in life, is your roadmap to your destiny. You’ve got the wrong roadmap when you’re in a rut and life starts getting you down. It’s never too late to find your purpose and start living the dreams of your heart, that which embodies meaning to you. Each of us in a special way, is destined to make a difference in this world. When we find courage to believe in yourself, your significance and purpose in life, even when no-body else does – That’s what enables you to take a stand for the things that is important to you. How will you then live the next phase of your life, and what do you need to do to get where you want to be? Are you overwhelmed by your own personal needs awareness and still complaining about why e.g. the government doesn’t change certain conditions? Or have you looked through the window to the world at large and started thinking outside the traditional box of conventional approaches to earn a living? What other possibilities exist? These are important questions you will be asked during transformational discussions, but are essential if you want to find your destiny, rekindle your passion, and step into your power. The purpose if transformative conversations are to build inner resilience, to enable individuals to transition into the next stage of their lives.

Do something today that your future self will thank you for.

Deepening the process is when dreams are structured in a more formal expression, giving flesh to your passions and ideals in the way it is expressed in and through you, and in what you do in the world. It feels very different than the initial state of despair, confusion, and disorientation. For example, some feel they want to express their talents in a way through which they can make a living, and at the same time, e.g. to create jobs for others as well. The deepening process of transformative conversations organize thoughts and giving it structure. You don’t have to be a formal organization to transform your community, or have an impact on society. You don’t need to belong to a specific Religious or Business Groups to implement transformative tools, and any people movement initiative has the potential of generating income that support yours and others well-being. It just ask that you tap into the knowledge resources available and take the initiative to build network (Interfaith and Cross-Culturally), and integrate this resources to build a New Humanity. Connectivity builds the cohesion that evolves in deeper meaning and significance in what we are and do. Conversations that cultivate this capacity are generated not only through Personal Coaching sessions, but can also be encouraged through Transition Groups. It is a way of building a new life beyond the crisis, it is the strengthening of the vision and expansion of ourselves in the way we embody a new consciousness in the world, in and through the enterprises, and work we do ethically and practically as stewards of the earth. Meta-Life Coaching, facilitates many of these kinds of Transition Groups, some focus on Spiritual Development and discusses e.g. the practice of meditation. While others focus on Personal Empowerment and negotiating through life’s challenges, whether it is work related, relationships, or even gender expression, and the social skills needed to thrive. Contact me at info@metalifecoaching.co.za, should you like to be included.

  Hope for a better future is not a wish, nor just a desire for things to be different. It is a course of action, combining mind and heart. Your future can be better and can be brighter, and we each have the power within us to make it happen. If this time have not taught us to pay closer attention to our Soul’s yearning, then we still believe that lesson from the past don’t impact your decisions in the future, and neither would you believe that the actions you can take today is vital for a better future. Because if your quest has been fruitless till now and you yearn for significance and meaning, it is because you were looking at the wrong places, asking the wrong questions.  It is time!  Something needs to happen!  Let’s connect!  Yes I had gone through lonely nights and have lost it all, Yes I had to start over on many occasion, Yes I followed social rules and expectations and some I have broken to my own detriment, Yes I allowed my logical mind to dominate decisions that will satisfy the approval of family and friends. And in the end …. I felt disconnected and lost, hopelessly distressed and unhappy. I’m here to tell you there is a better way and want to connect to help you discover possibilities, to empower and enable you to have greater resourcefulness in the way you live and express who you are, that will improve what you can offer as service to your community. Transformative Coaching discussions will allow you to determine your own impact on society, by helping you to align your passions and interests with opportunities for growth. For more information or to book a Conversation, go to https://metalifecoaching.co.za/contact-us.php.

[youdecode]

How to Wake up Early & How to get up Early? | Waking up at 5 am

“There is no sunrise so beautiful that it is worth waking me up to see it.” 

Wondering how to wake up early?  

Have you ever questioned yourself that generally how many sunsets have you lost? Countless? 

It is not only sunset which you are losing on but on several things. 

Waking up early is a blessing for you to conquer your entire day. 

I used to be a night owl. Now I do not even need an alarm for waking up at 4. 

What changed. I learned. I learnt from the experts. 

I invested in myself for a better life. 

I have taken several audio books, best ebooks and courses.  

I loved the investments because when I see myself now: I have just more time for everything. 

I used to rant that why God has just given 24 hours in a day. 

My to-do list always used to get shifted on the next day.

And most importantly I was compromising fun in my life.

If you are asking yourself that why you need to become more productive then the answer is :

Because you deserve success in your career, and health in your lovely relationships. 

If you want to live more intentionally then do check this productivity bundle.

 Back to this blogpost. 

But sadly it is not an easy peasy process, the rather true effort is required from your end.

This post will help you to catch the sunrise, to become mindful, and to slay your goals.

This post will help you so that by the end of the day you do not stare yourself helplessly in the mirror, recalling the disappointments of the day.

Let’s dig in.

  PS : Don’t forget to grab the freebie at the end of post, specially crafted for you  !

Benefit of waking up early? 

When I was studying political philosophy I came across several common human motives that drive our lives.

Those motives are so common that we tend to ignore them completely.

If I question you, why do you do what you do? You will surely have thousands of answers to it.

The same is the case with me.

But the ultimate answer is to FEEL GOOD.

We do everything in our lives to feel good. The utmost pleasure as Machiavelli framed it.

Every small action is controlled by how we are going to feel.

Interesting and very important.

The problem here is that switching to the morning routine, out of sudden, nowhere offers the experience of feeling good.

Initially waking up super early goes against the intrinsic nature of feeling good or being joyful.

But once you train yourself for it, there is no joyous feeling than conquering the gigantic milestone when half the world is sleeping.

Remember the point here is that you will not initially “feel good” and find it hard.

But this feeling will drastically shift if you:

Commit to wake up early & make it a habit

Conquer great milestones

Become productive

Be able to make more time of those 24 hours for your family, friends and loved ones

So this means waking up early is of the root cause of feeling good and of happiness?

You got me, girl!

If you want to other 56 drastic benefits of waking up early then below are the related reads.

How to practically wake up early?

You need to catch the cycle. The cycle of creating habits. Bear in mind that habit is a loop.

How to create that loop? An extremely simple form of RAR.

Reminder, Action, and Reward.

Do you need to identify each ingredient in the formula for creating the loop? I am simply saying:

the alarm going off can be a reminder,

the action has to be turning off the alarm!

the reward? Your favorite shake/meal [choose it for yourself but please get creative as the reward has to shake you off the bed! Don’t make your reward as brushing your teeth! ]

You need to spend a good chunk of time making the RAR formula workable. You need to decide the loop. And remember it is a loop thus no elimination is possible.

The best part is that you can use this formula for creating any habit in your life.

For now, our habit is waking up early. This loop is effective why? as it becomes your automatic response because of repetition.

The most common trap which we all fall into is the 10-minute trap where we use alarms in between.

Yes, the kind of mercy time. And guess what happens after that mercy time?

You eye yourself with such mercy that never let you hop out of the bed!

You can cater to such traps by installing any wake-up app like the sleep cycle until you master the RAR formula!

Step 2 of waking up at 5 am:

The second step in waking up early is creating a morning routine.

Let’s continue from the reward we left with.

Now your reward becomes your Reminder

Reminder: Get the reward

Action: Have 20 minutes of your Alone time(i will tell you why this alone time is fuel in your life)

Reward: Check phone notifications

You can adjust the time period of the 20 minutes as per your need. It is a blessing for you. This task is long enough so you can complete it and short enough so it transforms into a habit.

Questioning what to do in these magical minutes. I call these the extra minutes in which life gifts me.

Why? This time is of self-reflection.

This is the time where the subconscious mind is more active than the conscious mind.

And if you have been reading this blog then you know that the subconscious mind has infinite power.

It is connected with the higher self and has all the potential answers which you are seeking elsewhere.

If you want to know what my 20 minutes look like then follow these 4 steps. (there is no restriction, you can add as many steps by extending these magical minutes in 40)

Plug your fav song for inspiration & enjoy the sunrise

Visualize

Journal

Plan 

Before we jump into step 3 let’s give time as to why visualization, journaling, and planning has the potential of transforming your life.

I am a true believer in the law of attraction.

I have manifested countless things through this natural process that exist to make any wish come true.

People are already practicing the law of attraction in their lives, but they are practicing it unconsciously.

The day they become conscious of the process, magic will happen.

No one denies the law of gravity, but the law of attraction receives little acknowledgment. WHY? Because We do not have any 9.81 to support the law.

If one needs proof, one has to experience it. No other way!

And the good news is that both visualization and journaling are extremely powerful tools for practicing the law of attraction.

When you visualize, you are in essence setting a clear intention.

You are telling the universe (the God, or higher intelligence you believe in).

By visualization, you are transforming your thoughts into feelings. Simply close your eyes and think of your desires.

Think about the emotions attached. Feel the want. Experience joy.

It is a conscious meditation.

Then you begin journaling.

I am much of a fan of journaling for manifestation.

I DO it for getting answers when I am confused and I get them.

I do journaling to affirm that my goals are getting accomplished. When I was 12, yes I used to do diaries, but it never helped me. There is no right or wrong way of journaling but surely there is an effective way.

A way through which you could manifest what you desire. I have worked my sweat in developing the triple G’s technique. So what is the point?

Use my proven way of personal & professional success or deploy any method which brings you close to your goal.

Write in detailed what you have visualized, make your wish more concrete

You can simply journal the affirmations like “I am achieving all the goals”

Lastly, Make your to-do list and write them in the order of priority.

Step 3 of waking up at 5am:

Now, this is the step where you actually conquer your mornings. Always start with the hardest tasks.

Remember, that your brain will tempt you to get started with the easiest task first.

But that is the trap. Sometimes our brain can become our worst enemy. Why do I say so? Because it is lazy.

It works on connections and patterns. When we decide to accomplish the hardest, it will signal reluctance.

It will be least willing if you will do something completely new. (as there will be no pattern for it to follow)

It will scare you before you even start. What is the solution?

Become aware of this threat.

Laugh at its suggestions. Do you know what it will suggest?

It will ask you to spend the first two precious morning hours checking email? If it does that you question your brain . . . are you serious?!

The fear of doing the hardest will go the moment you START it

Just start!

Step 4 of waking up at 5am:

The final step to waking up early is to create an evening routine.

Remember your evening routine is capable of spilling the milk on your efforts. Thus, you need to pay attention to your latter-day.

Your evening routine will be actually driving your personal goals. So customize it accordingly.

Munching till 12, getting entertained till late night would not let you complete the habit loop.

So what is your RAR for the evening?

Reminder: You should have an alarm for 9 pm

Action: Shut everything and prepare your bed

Reward: Treat yourself with a good book

Reward here can be anything. It could be an episode of a series (remember not a complete series!!!)

Anything that you can spend your 30-40 minutes to. If you ask what my reward looks like then:

I generally read a book (mostly think & grow rich . . . yes I am a fan of re-reading)

I journal again for manifestation with the techniques I am obsessed with (hardly takes me 5 minutes).

Put my phone on the airplane mode

Sleep yeyii finally!

Key Points of how to get up early

Now, remember that you are making a system for yourself.

The steps which I have mentioned are tracking your goals while giving you plenty of fun time to relax.

Why do I call it a system? Because now everything is fed into your mind.

It is fed that you have to wake up early, spend 20 minutes mindfully, dig into the tasks, and then live a rewarding evening.

I know what is floating around your head. It has to do with the To-do list.

Don’t worry if you could not achieve whatever you wrote in the planner. After all, no one has ever died with an empty to-do list . . .

YOU WILL ALWAYS have things left, undone. It is not finishing the endline. It is about participating in that race.

It is about competing with your best self.

It is simply about running for a fulfilled life while actually living. (it is not a mindless chase, where you do not prioritize other things)

Yes, there will be times when someone will come over.

There will be times where you will have to attend certain events. What to do?

Prepare for those times by strengthening your loop habit of waking up early.

Even if you rarely have to sleep at 12, even then wake up as per your routine.

Don’t worry as you can compensate for the missed hours by taking a nap in the afternoon.

Blueprint of How to wake up early

Step 1: Waking Up

Reminder: ____________

Action: __________

Reward: _________

Step 2: 20 Minutes Routine

Reminder: ____________

Action: __________

Reward: _________

Step 3: Actual Milestones

Step 4: Evening Routine

Reminder: ____________

Action: __________

Reward: _________

Before you goo

You need to become a high performer.

Because if you study high performers in any field.

You will find that all achievers had a super productive morning routine in common.

Prepare yourself for the productive routine through the practical steps detailed above.

Tell me you are up for this loop? Is it really that hard?

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[evancarmichael]

✎ Good morning #BelieveNation. Today's message is: "Create micro-wins!" Over to you Lisa Nichols. ★★★ SECRET BONUS VIDEO ★★★ What are the success rules from Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos, Kanye West, Tony Robbins, and Elon Musk that had the biggest personal impact on me? Find out here: http://ift.tt/2jYuliC ❤ HELP TRANSLATE THIS VIDEO ❤ If you loved this video, help people in other countries enjoy it too by making captions for it. Spread the love and impact. https://www.youtube.com/timedtext_video?v=sZeAVu7SSrs ★ MORE RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU ★ If you enjoyed this video, you may enjoy these other videos from Evan Carmichael: • Lisa Nichols's Top 10 Rules For Success - https://youtu.be/aL8Pg5T6fic • Lisa Nichols: Live a PURPOSE Driven LIFE - https://youtu.be/cuHZeVb101g • Bob Proctor's Top 10 Rules For Success - https://youtu.be/uLn6lpP8YmA ✎ She's one of the world’s most-requested motivational speakers. Her global platform has reached and served nearly 30 million people. She has helped develop programs that have transformed the lives of men and women. She has appeared on Oprah, The Today Show, and the Steve Harvey Show. Through Lisa’s non-profit foundation Motivating the Teen Spirit, she has touched the lives of over 200,000 teens. She lives, plays and works in San Diego, California. Her courage has inspired fans worldwide to discover their own talents and infinite potential. In her 7th book, ABUNDANCE NOW, she provides a clear and practical blueprint for personal success. ABUNDANCE NOW is the eagerly-anticipated follow-up to Lisa’s New York Times bestseller, NO MATTER WHAT. She received the Humanitarian Award from the country of South Africa. ✔ SOURCES ✔ Channel: Lisa Nichols https://youtu.be/GpxasICVRU8 Channel: Robin Sharma https://youtu.be/gpiFVl1Pq1I ♛ BUY MY BOOKS, CHANGE YOUR LIFE ♛ Some used the ideas in these books to build multi-billion-dollar businesses. I'll give you the simple-yet-powerful formula that they used (and you can) to realize your dreams. Get yours. http://ift.tt/2auuYKa http://ift.tt/2DWNJZU ✉ JOIN MY #BELIEVE NEWSLETTER ✉ This is the best way to have entrepreneur gold delivered to your inbox, and to be inspired, encouraged and supported in your business. Join #BelieveNation and feel the love. http://ift.tt/1DyhRRs ⚑ SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL ⚑ If you want to do great things you need to have a great environment. Create one by subbing and watching daily. http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=Modelingthemasters ¿ COMMON QUESTIONS ¿ • What is #BTA?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsY8bmTUVP8 • How do I get one of Evan's t-shirts?: http://ift.tt/1VBOMjE • Why does Evan look like Nicolas Cage?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZHRniTcRwo • Why does Evan make so many videos? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEKxGA8xr1k • How do I vote for the next Top 10 video Evan should make? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0arZb0xLIDM ツ CONNECT WITH ME ツ Leave a comment on this video and it'll get a response. Or you can connect with me on different social platforms too: • Twitter: https://twitter.com/evancarmichael • Facebook: http://ift.tt/1t8ruBM • Google+: http://ift.tt/1wAY1Ex • Website: http://ift.tt/LfsMJ5 • Livestream Channel: http://ift.tt/2j1vZP7 • #BelieveNation Forums: http://ift.tt/2jsqFn6 .: MORE ABOUT ME PERSONALLY :. • About: http://ift.tt/1wAY43c • Speaking: http://ift.tt/1wAY1UU ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for watching - I really appreciate it :) Cheers, Evan #Believe

[debrahlabanganasblog]

Hey Kings and Queens!

Eat good, look good, feel GREAT! – Debra Hlabangana 

So #MyMissionToASexyEverything started in-between 2015 and 2016(not so sure anymore), all for FUN and hey, it has turned out to be something massive in my healthy lifestyle goals of late and has made a huge difference in my life physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. I’m super excited to take you through my journey to achieving a healthy lifestyle. Its has been goals for years.

The passion of leading a life that improved my health and well-being began in end of 2009 and beginning of 2010 while i was still at secondary school. I always found myself in bed after school going through health and fitness magazines and googling a lot about working out at home. I remember i had a close friend in my hood, Patience, who would get a lot of magazines and i would borrow them so i read and jot down every little information i found significant.

During that time i learnt a lot about eating healthy and exercise and how to achieve it within your means. Things like planning 6 healthy light meals a day which includes a lot of snack, healthy snack, that is and i totally needed that for the more i worked out the more i got hungry. I barely had cheat days like i do now, lol.

I continued in that lane, working out and eating strictly healthy food, i had a variety of rural traditional food which my mother produced from her rural home. Those were the best meals ever, mixed with a bit of modern food. Both mom and i were as fit as a fiddle. As the years went by and my brain got developed more. I realised that i could not be a completely beautiful woman if its just my body and skin that is in a great condition. I wanted more of everything about me. Yes a beautiful body, skin, hair, nails, soul and THE MIND too!

In 2016, i the came up with a hashtag to sum up everything into so much FUN for me. I created the #MyMissionToASexyEverything. This hashtag is about self transformation in every aspect of my life, the mind, body, soul, and the heart. This then fueled the hashtag #ReadTwoBooksAndBlogMoreThanTwiceAWeek with the aim to increase my vocabulary, writing and thinking skills as an individual and it has been working for me. In as much as i do all these things for fun it is marvelous how it has brought me peace and happiness within, hence living a healthy lifestyle. I can not lie, it is a sweet life and it is real, happiness comes from within. I have invested in doing what i genuinely love, need it look or sound funny to the next person, that is not going to deter me from achieving whatever i want in life.

The #MyMissionToASexyEverything is about living a healthy lifestyle in all aspects. There are so many things that my Healthy Lifestyle Goals Journey has developed in me but i will share just a few, need you question, please you have the liberty to ask on the comment section below.

Basically what has my Healthy Lifestyle Goals Journey developed in me? #MyMissionToASexyEverything

1 I have managed to stick to a healthy diet which mainly high in protein and fibre, fruits and veggies. I love organic food!

Confession: I do cheat on some days though… I love Pizza with lots of cheese, lol I’m not proud but i have a way of getting rid of all the unwanted fat i would have gobbled.

2 I workout like E.V.E.R.Y.D.A.Y and i do not find it hard.

It has become a lifestyle and i absolutely enjoy it. It started with doing lunges back in 2010, in two weeks time i saw my legs and thighs muscles transform. I was so toned up and had the perfect shape, i desired and hence invested in some fun sports wear. Since that day, i could not live without that kind of activity that brought immense joy in my life.

3 I have the body that i love.

I do have Cheat Days and i have not been happy with them. I have been bigger than i am now in my life and i have never liked it. Why? Because i literally felt heavy, i could not fit in some of my favourite clothes. From size 10 American size, dropped to 8, now i wear size 6. You could be rolling your eyes right now, size 10 is not a bad size, but i felt uncomfortable, i could not do much of moving around with getting really tired so i had to do what worked for me. Eating healthy and exercising regularly, something that boosted my confidence and self esteem. One thing not to do is, NEVER STARVE YOURSELF. Eat! Eat shem! and well so you just naturally improve your health and well-being. I’m in love with my body, have always loved it, i just had to get rid of the unnecessary fat. I take great care of my body because, you look good, you feel GREAT! Its a good feeling.

4 Gosh! My crown has been growing like crazy.

I did cut my hair in 2016 and wore protective hairstyles for a while. I had problems with my natural 4 C type of hair because i did not have good information on how to take care of it. But now i have and its growing, its healthy and strong. The secret is in what you eat! Soon as i constantly changed my diet, things got better, less breakage and so forth. I have learnt that what you eat is good for your hair, there is no need to invest in some expensive hair products especially those that damage your hair. You have got to be careful when you by your products. I prefer natural DIY for instance, i use organic oils for my hair and baking soda mixed with my Shampoo for my wash days. That is what works for me, what works for you? Please share

5 My skin guys, its better looking than before.

I hardly have breakouts or acne(i have never had acne) , so i have always had spotless skin. Along my journey, i’m not sure what transpired, i made a mistake of touching my face and tried wearing a weave for the first time and Lawd! My face and back reacted. Because i could not stand the rash that had developed, i would scratch it, little did i know that i was making it worse. Those were the most unhappy days with my skin but i kept the vow, #MyMissionToASexyEverything. I have learnt to wash my hands with soap regularly, and not touch my face at all. I also made it a point that i will not wear a weave or wig in my life, i’m allergic to them and have develop great routines of how to wash my face and the whole body so as to keep it clean. Of major concern, is the face and body products i use which are DIY and so natural which makes them harmless to my skin. I’m loving my skin, its not at its BEST but its better and i continue to invest in it.

Debra Hlabangana, JustDebbieH @debbie_magalela with twist out natural hair.

6 Reading is one of my favs, especially in my lone moments and with a hot cup of coffee( which i have been warned not to take too much).

I LOVE COFFEE. But i have also begun drinking healthy tea, green tea, cinnamon and ginger tea, just to name  few, this is tea that my mother refuses to drink, lol. Well, back to reading, this has developed my mind and shaped in a better way. One of my favourite books that i have read for the 4th time this year is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and Benjamin Carson’s Think Big. Just in July this year, i created the #ReadTwoBooksAndBlogMoreThanTwiceAWeek, its been two months now and i have read more than 20 books and my speech, mindset and writing skills have become better. I did this to keep myself motivated, and due to the fact that i love reading, i just had to do it. I wonder how many books or magazines i would have read come year end. I’m striving to be better #MyMissionToASexyEverything.

7 If you have noticed, i’m a passionate being and i like people with emotional and intellectual depth, people that speak with passion from their inner twisted mind.

I can not help but i’m drawn to conversing with mature people, i like it. It comes with a lot of lesson. I engage and ask questions, of all my coolest friends, it has to be the old and little ones, lol. I know it sounds crazy but i’m for real. There is a lot of elderly powerful people i converse with from family members to those in my field of interest. Below is a picture with one amazing woman i like, we call her Dr Mai Chisamba , she is a very good disciplinarian and when i was at college, she taught me a lot about embracing myself naturally.

Mai Chisamba and Debra Hlabangana, @debbie_magalela #JustDebbieH #EmbraceYOU

Mai Chisamba and Debra Hlabangana, @debbie_magalela #JustDebbieH #EmbraceYOU

8 So in My Healthy Lifestyle Goals Journey, above all else, i have developed an unshakeable affection with myself. Being me with no limitations. Being unique. Celebrating all that i am regardless of my flaws which most of the time i do not pay attention to because it has settled in, I’M FLAWED and AWESOME all at once. I have fully embraced who i am, and working on getting even better each day. This is just the beginning of My Healthy Lifestyle Goals Journey, its constant and every day, each second, minute, week, month, year or season i’m evolving. Its been incredible so far. Whats keeps me going is that i’m a multitalented creative, i have the energy and i make time for everything that concerns my health and well-being. Living a healthy lifestyle is wealth. It brings about a certain satisfication and that is WHY most of the times I AM H.A.P.P.Y! Its a choice i made and took the first step into making it happen. Take action today and go for what you want. Do what you love, for you and not for anyone else. It is very important to take care of yourself at all times, spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally.

Stay inspired!

Love

Just DebbieH

#MyHealthyLifestyleGoalsJourney #MyMissionToASexyEverything #PhenomenalInspiration #JustDebbieH #EmbraceYOU

  My Healthy Lifestyle Goals Journey #MyMissionToASexyEverything Hey Kings and Queens! Eat good, look good, feel GREAT! - Debra Hlabangana  So #MyMissionToASexyEverything started in-between 2015 and 2016(not so sure anymore), all for FUN and hey, it has turned out to be something massive in my healthy lifestyle goals of late and has made a huge difference in my life physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally.

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Best 100 Personal development,Motivation,Finance,Habit,Success Books

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Best Books on Success You want to be successful in life. Of course, you want to achieve your goals. But exactly, how do you succeed? What are the steps to success? The following are the best personal development books on success. They each teach you principles and practical strategies to achieving success in your life. So, if you’re frustrated, feel like giving up or stressed out that things aren’t working out, these self-help books are for you get your success mindset and actions right.

1. The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results

2. The Success Principles(TM) — 10th Anniversary Edition: How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be

3. Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long-Term Fulfillment

4. The Slight Edge

5. The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level

6. Goals!: How to Get Everything You Want — Faster Than You Ever Thought Possible

7. Your Best Year Ever: A 5-Step Plan for Achieving Your Most Important Goals

8. Start Right Where You Are: How Little Changes Can Make a Big Difference for Overwhelmed Procrastinators, Frustrated Overachievers, and Recovering Perfectionists

Best Self-Motivation Books

1. The 5 Second Rule: Transform your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage

2. Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

3. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity

4. Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time

5. Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence

6. Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success

Best Books make you Better

1. The Four Tendencies

2. What Color Is Your Parachute? 2019: A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers

3. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

4. Strengths Finder 2.0

Best Self Acceptance Books

1. The Dark Side of the Light Chasers: Reclaiming Your Power, Creativity, Brilliance, and Dreams

2. The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are

3. Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself

4. Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

Best Books Build your Self Confident

1. Awaken the Giant Within : How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical and Financial Destiny!

2. The Fire Starter Sessions: A Soulful + Practical Guide to Creating Success on Your Own Terms

Best Books make You Positive Person

1. The Happiness Project (Revised Edition): Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun

2. 365 Days of Happiness: Because happiness is a piece of cake!

3. Stumbling on Happiness

4. How to Stop Worrying and Start Living

5. A Complaint Free World: How to Stop Complaining and Start Enjoying the Life You Always Wanted

Best Millennials Books

1. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

2. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life

3. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

4. Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life

5. Normal Gets You Nowhere by Kelly Cutrone (5-Apr-2012) Paperback

Best Books make you Perseverance and Strength

1. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

2. Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable

3. The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph

4. The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles

5. 177 Mental Toughness Secrets of the World Class: The Thought Processes, Habits and Philosophies of the Great Ones, 3rd Edition

6. Feel the Fear . . . and Do It Anyway

Law of Attraction Books for Personal Growth

1.Thank & Grow Rich: A 30-Day Experiment in Shameless Gratitude and Unabashed Joy

2. The Power of Intention

3. The Secret

4. Abundance Now: Amplify Your Life & Achieve Prosperity Today

Mind,Body,spirit Books for your Spiritual Growth

1. The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book)

2. The Seat of the Soul: 25th Anniversary Edition with a Study Guide

3. You Can Heal Your Life

4. The Self-Care Project: How to let go of frazzle and make time for you

5. Dying To Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing

Best Books For Finding your OPurpose and Passion

1. The Book of Secrets: Unlocking the Hidden Dimensions of Your Life

2. Believe Bigger: Discover the Path to Your Life Purpose

3. You Are The One: A Bold Adventure in Finding Purpose, Discovering the Real You, and Loving Fully

4. A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose (Oprah’s Book Club, Selection 61)

5. Man’s Search for Meaning

Personal Development Books about Belonging and Connection

1. BRAVING THE WILDERNESS

2. How to Win Friends & Influence People

3. The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism

4. A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of “A Course in Miracles”

5. Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life, 3rd Edition: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships (Nonviolent Communication Guides)

6. Better Apart: The Radically Positive Way to Separate.

7. Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade

Best Books about Changing Habits

1.The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change

3. High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way

4. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

Healthy Habits to Transform Your Life

1. The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM)

2. The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life

3. Eat Move Sleep: How Small Choices Lead to Big Changes

4. Mini Habits for Weight Loss: Stop Dieting. Form New Habits. Change Your Lifestyle Without Suffering. (Volume 2)

Mindfulness Books for Personal Growth

1. Practicing the Power of Now: Essential Teachings, Meditations, and Exercises From The Power of Now

2. How to Be Here: A Guide to Creating a Life Worth Living

3. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less

4. Happier Now: How to Stop Chasing Perfection and Embrace Everyday Moments (Even the Difficult Ones)

5. Loving What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life

6. The Power of Less: The 6 Essential Productivity Principles That Will Change Your Life by Babauta, Leo (2009) Paperback

Inspirational Stories for Personal growth

1. Life’s Golden Ticket: A Story About Second Chances

2. The Traveler’s Gift

3. Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson

4. The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics

5. The Alchemist

Best Personal Development books for Entrepreneurs

1. The Magic of Thinking Big

2. Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

3. The Entrepreneur Roller Coaster: Why Now Is the Time to #JoinTheRide

4. Boss Life: Surviving My Own Small Business

5. Principles: Life and Work

Following books help you Leave 9 to 5 job

1. The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9–5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich

2. Financial Freedom: A Proven Path to All the Money You Will Ever Need

3. Your Money or Your Life: 9 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Achieving Financial Independence: Fully Revised and Updated for 2018

4. The 10 Pillars of Wealth: Mind-Sets of the World’s Richest People

5. The Millionaire Fastlane: Crack the Code to Wealth and Live Rich for a Lifetime!

Best Personal Finance Books

1. Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!

2. I Will Teach You To Be Rich

3. Million Dollar Habits: Proven Power Practices to Double and Triple Your Income

4. Think and Grow Rich: The Original, an Official Publication of The Napoleon Hill Foundation

5. You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth

6. Money, A Love Story: Untangle Your Financial Woes and Create the Life You Really Want

[brilliancewithin-blog]

How Confident Do You Feel?

How Confident Do You Feel?

How Confident Do You Feel?

We talk about ‘losing confidence’ – so where does it go. If we ‘lose it’, does somebody else find it or is there a BIG stockpile of confidence just waiting to be discovered somewhere? I’m sure I’m going to discover it someday soon…

Actually, if I’m honest, over the last few years, I’ve developed more confidence and belief in myself than I’ve had for many years. I may be…

[creativelitlover]

Book review

Into the Shadows – a few facts

Author: Marie Jones

Genre: Romance, Mystery, Suspense

Publisher: lulu.com

Published: 23rd December 2015

More from: The Edge – A short story

The building tension and suspense is brilliant!!

Maire Jones has no doubt an amazing talent at hooking you in right from the start! The contrast at the beginning with Lily talking herself in and out of going back to Dingle is pure genius, gripping you in with Lily’s unsure feelings, battling inside her head. The picture painted of Lily inside my own head began developing straight away…..

  “I’m not the girl you would secretly admire, dream, envy you were more like.”

I knew right there and then, reading that line, this story, Lily’s journey was going to be motivational, inspiring and emotional…. and believe me, it was that and so much more!! Being written in 1st person, I felt as one with Lily and was with her the whole way though with all the emotions rolling in my own head.

I truly could not put this book down, it gave me a couple of “book hangovers” over the time it took to read it…. my family suffered hehe, not really they are used to me by now! With every turning page, I’d be begging my eyes to stay open….. just one more page! That’s how the plot left me, battling to carry on and find out more.

The characters were so real and very relatable. I enjoyed the conversation between Lily and Nina, Lily’s roommate, when Lily had told Nina why she was dropping everything to go back to Dingle, her reaction was brilliant!! Her ranting away and sarcasm was incredibly funny yet you felt the strong friendship between them. I’d of loved for Nina and Lily to have a bit more time together in the story as I really did love their banter, fantastic!!

The romance!!! Oh, the romance. David, well Lily and David’s first meeting was pure fireworks, although poor Lily getting the hot end of that firework, not that I blame David…. the shock of the photo obviously hurt him, what better way to start a romance though eh?! Plus what better way to bring Lily out of her shell by her being needed, relied on and just having to help this man solve the mystery. Clearly drawing them in closer and building their relationship over the chapters. And that kiss!

Into the Shadows is beautifully written, the descriptions of Dingle and “Inch Beach” really brought the whole story to life! An amazing read that has got me wanting more….. please 🙂

Amazons description:

Awarded FIVE STAR BADGE from ‘READERS FAVOURITE’ and SHORTLISTED for UK NOVEL WRITING COMPETITION 2017 Lily Crossways lives a controlled life, where she ensures she never experiences hurt or disappointment. Until, that is, she returns home from a short holiday in Dingle, where she discovers an eerie image of a desperate woman on one of her photographs. How can that be, when Lily was alone that day on Inch beach? Who is this woman, is she even real, and why has she appeared to Lily? The woman seems to be calling to her, if only Lily can rescue her. Compelled to find her, Lily returns to Dingle and her search leads her to cafe owner David Carson, this missing woman’s brother, and the man who will turn Lily’s life upside down in every way possible. Lily must now convince him to trust in her, taking bold steps to prove herself to him, and together track down his sister before it’s too late. But nothing can prepare Lily for the secrets she uncovers about herself, her own family and how all their lives were destined to become intertwined from a distant childhood visit.

Author interview:

Maire was kind enough to answer some questions for me, especially for my blog book review. I tried to come up with some different questions for Marie, and shes answered them all brilliantly.

What is the first book that made you cry?

It was ‘Little Women’ by Louisa Alcott, the part when Beth dies. Still makes me want to well up now just thinking about it.

Does writing energise you or exhaust you?

Most of the time it energises me, but sometimes when you’ve written an emotional scene it can leave you feeling quite exhausted by the end. I do find though I may feel tired before writing, or more accurately by the thought of sitting down to write when I really just want to be a couch potato, but once I get going I become energised!

What is your writing kryptonite?

My phone – especially when it beeps at me with a message and it’s so tempting to read it immediately, but by doing that I lose concentration and momentum on what I was writing.

What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?

I think loving reading from a very early age, I grew to love how they can transform you to a different world, time, life even that you’ve never lived yourself, nor likely to. It expanded my imagination, and my desire to want to write novels myself.

What’s your favourite under-appreciated novel?

I’ve always preferred ‘Persuasion’ by Jane Austen to ‘Pride and Prejudice’, but its always the lesser known one, the poorer cousin so to speak, which is a real shame. It has a very strong message about following your own heart’s desires, not other peoples desires for you.

What’s your favourite series?

I loved ‘The Night Manager’ that was on TV some time back, based on the book. Also, I’m a huge fan of ‘Poldark’ (though my favourite character is not Poldark himself as you would expect but Dr Enys)

How many hours’s a day do you write?

Not enough! I usually get around 1-2 hours a day around working as a Teaching Assistant in a school, and looking after my own two children after school. I would love to be a full time writer, but that’s currently just a pipedream…

Did you edit a lot out of this book?

I edited out some scenes which I decided took away from the main story of Into The Shadows, but never a great amount overall. However, I do have to do several edits to the point I get word blind!

How do you select the names for your characters?

I play around with different names as I visualise how they look and sound, until I found the one that I feel fits. It’s working on instinct really, like naming your own children when they are born.

What was your hardest scene to write?

I would say the scenes between my two main characters, David and Lily when they are arguing and full of emotion, because I want the scenes to feel real and raw, and my readers to connect with them on an emotional level, to sympathise and understand them.

Do you have a favourite author?

Jane Austen. Also love Kate Morton and Santa Montefiore.

Do you like films adapted from books? …… If so which is your favourite?

I don’t mind films adapted from books as long as it’s not changed too drastically from the original book. The Help was one film that was well adapted, as was War Horse by Michael Morpurgo.

Can you think of a fictional character you wouldn’t get along with? ….. Who? and from which novel?

I can’t name one particular, but a character that was either too fussy and whinging I would struggle to go along with, or one that was very judgemental. But you can’t have all nice, lovely characters – you’ve got to have at least one nasty character in there.

Can you think of a fictional character you would go on a date with? …… Who? and from which novel?

Oh, well I’d quite like to go on a date with my own main male characters – David from Into The Shadows, and now Michael from my new novel I’m writing, The Perfect Storm! I think they are, secretly, my dream kind of men.

Do you have a favourite book cover?

I love Santa Montefiore’s covers to her books. Always really striking.

What do we have to look forward to from you next?

I am working away at my next novel, The Perfect Storm, set in the highlands of Scotland. Here’s a little taster of what the story is about:

When Sophia is unexpectantly visited by her old university friend, Aniella, her friend begs Sophia to stay at Aniella’s flat in Inverness and look after a safe hidden away, telling her that she is in fear of her life and must disappear for a while. Forced to act on her friend’s please, Sophia soon finds herself not only in danger herself but under suspicision from Detective Marcus Armstrong, who has the flat under survellience for reasons he won’t reveal…

Thank you, so much Maire for taking the time to answer my questions and give a little insight to your wonderful mind that created such a gorgeous and gripping story. I look forward to your next novel “The Perfect Storm”, and I truly rate your writing! It’s beautiful.

www.mariejones.yolasite.com

  Into the Shadows: Book review Book review Into the Shadows - a few facts Author: Marie Jones Genre: Romance, Mystery, Suspense…

[businessfrontrunners]

Joanna Mercado from The ELiTE Movement Launches '12 Ways To Have A Unicorn Life And Unicorn Business'

https://authoritypresswire.com/?p=30996 This course is designed to help you answer questions like: Have you ever wondered if it is even possible to have it all? Do you fantasize about a dream life AND dream business? Is that even achievable? Are you tired of feeling like you must compromise one area of your life in order to be successful in another? Do you wonder what is the secret that allows others to have live a magical life? And to create a framework you can apply to have a Unicorn Life and Unicorn Business. Each week, the course concentrates on one tool (method) you can implement to transform your life, each week builds from the previous one. The way this 13 week course was created allows a +95% completion and 100% satisfaction guarantee, as it is the perfect balance between the tools (Go & Do) and the psychology behind our minds and behaviors. Mercado shared, "You have magic inside of you, you only have to pay attention and let it shine!" "Be YOU, Be a UNICORN!" said Mercado. To learn more or join the new program, “12 Ways to Have a Unicorn Life & Unicorn Business!” visit: https://joannamercado.com/courses During her 10 years at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Joanna traveled around the world supporting and coaching factories and leadership teams to develop more robust continuous improvement and quality perspectives and systems, implementing a sustainable way to deliver world class results and performance on the manufacturing floor. She was also part of the startup of a green field plant in Pulandian, China where she was a key contributor in achieving a new facility launch with successful quality, safety, productivity, and cost performance. In that time Joanna supported 11 plants in North and South America. Her work is still being used to support their leaders in continuous development and progress. Joanna has been a motivational and transformational speaker for 6 years, finding creative ways to engage and support the needed change in all levels of business organization. Working in 4 continents and 15 countries allowed her to gain a rich perspective of different cultures and the impact of those on effective leadership skills. Her observations about the modern corporate crisis and the need to focus on leadership development is what moved her to start sharing her own journey and tips on how to become an extraordinary leader. Joanna has spoken in multiple universities both in the US and internationally and is frequently a podcast guest where she shares her knowledge and experience with others in a broader way. In 2019 Joanna coached and supported teams in Croatia and Norway as part of their Business Freedom Speaking Academy training, she was one of the team leaders and coaches that helped 100 people to learn and improve their communication skills and become extraordinary public speakers. Joanna was part of the board of directors of Habitat for Humanity and received the award “Rising Star” from the Women of Color (WoC) organization during their 2015 event in Detroit, Michigan. Currently she works as the VP of membership of Toastmaster International’s Stow Club. Joanna obtained her bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the Jesuit University Javeriana in Cali, Colombia and attended the ICESI University where she concentrated in depth on strategic management during her MBA studies. About Joanna Mercado Joanna is an experienced and passionate leader, speaker, coach, and transformational trainer. Not to mention a Bestselling author of two books in 7 countries. She enjoys helping others to discover the best version of themselves by facilitating workshops, speaking about leadership, and personal coaching. During her 15-year corporate career she drove cultural change and implemented effective and sustainable operational excellence systems in Fortune 500 companies like Goodyear & PepsiCo. While in those roles she coached and trained managers, leaders, and teams on 4 continents and in more than 15 countries. Her focus is on the development of teams to become effective and individuals to perform at their best. Through her process she is able to deliver results in organizations that include creating clear accountability, motivation, and respect of teams and co-workers. All of this makes your organization more effective and productive. Joanna led the cultural and performance transformation (Operational Excellence) of the Great Lakes region in PepsiCo. She led, taught, coached, and mentored over 1,600 employees in 8 facilities, through the process to implement a lean and bottom-up method to lead and run the business on a daily basis.   As a result of her leadership, the plants reached savings of 8M dollars, increased productivity by 15% on average, developed and promoted leaders within, and improved their Organizational Health scores. The plant’s leadership teams were able to improve their progress and KPI results by 146% by implementing a sustainable operational system. She supported the leadership of the region to develop and inspire hourly associates to step up and take leadership roles, gaining an engaged and driven workforce even in the facilities with a union environment. To learn more about Joanna Mercado, please visit: http://www.joannamercado.com. Or, follow her on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannamercadospeaks/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannamercadospeaks/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/extraordinaryleaders/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ZG4Zs0WniDi_FY8eSnpBQ?view_as=subscriber

[limejuicer1862]

Wombwell Rainbow Interview

I am honoured and privileged that the following writers local, national and international have agreed to be interviewed by me. I gave the writers two options: an emailed list of questions or a more fluid interview via messenger.

The usual ground is covered about motivation, daily routines and work ethic, but some surprises too. Some of these poets you may know, others may be new to you. I hope you enjoy the experience as much as I do.

Amy Shimshon-Santo

a writer, educator, and urbanist, believes the arts are “a powerful tool for transformation,” both socially and personally. She connects the arts, education, and urban planning in her work. Holding a PhD and MA in urban planning from UC Los Angeles, an MFA in creative writing from Antioch University Los Angeles, and a BA in Latin American studies from UC Santa Cruz. Amy is an associate professor at Claremont Graduate University where she heads the Master of Arts Management program. She has been recognized on the National Honor Roll for Service Learning. Amy lead the ArtsBridge program for UCLA Arts and her efforts provided the foundation for the University of California’s first visual and performing arts education degree in the state. Amy represented the State of California at the National Endowment of the Art’s Education Leadership Institute, where she was a founding member of Create CA. She has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize in creative nonfiction and Best of the Net in poetry. Amy’s essays have appeared in Entropy, and have been published by SAGE. Her work has also been published by University of California Press and State University of New York Press, and can be found in Rose Quartz Magazine, Public, Teaching Artist Journal, Tiferet Journal, Critical Planning, Entropy, Yes, Poetry, Zócalo Public Square, and Lady/Liberty/Lit, and more. Her book of poems, Even the Milky Way is Undocumented, is forthcoming with Unsolicited Press in 2020. Amy is found on www.amyshimshon.com

shimshona4@gmail.com Twitter: @amyshimshon IG: @shimshona http://www.amyshimshon.com/

The Interview

1. What inspired you to write poetry?

Poetry was my first (written) language. I intuitively wrote with line breaks since I was a girl. I didn’t call it poetry, but it was how I wrote. A kind of birth mark.

What has changed in my relationship to poetry is how I read, and my entanglement with editing. Writing is natural. Editing is more like design, or how I imagine carpentry. My brother is a carpenter. My grandfather was too. I just build things with different materials and tools. Words instead of wood. Punctuation marks instead of nails. When I edit, I want the poems to look me in the eye, sound good on the tongue, and tell some kind of story.

Essays are another matter. I know precisely when that started. I had to write an essay to apply to college. It felt like ice skating in outer space. Complicated, maybe even impossible. Now, I’ve grown to appreciate the process of writing essays, and am almost always tinkering with one. They help me observe and think. Essays are architectural, 2D dwellings for bigger ideas and worlds. I see a light and run into them without a plan, get lost in the chaos of the experience, and finally figure out what wants to be said. I feel a sense of wonder and satisfaction when they are done.

I write poems every morning, and whether they are “good” or not, they’re my medicine for living. They are my thermometer for authentic living. They help me know myself, and seek freedom despite whatever may be limiting me in the material world.

2. Who introduced you to poetry?

The first poet I remember hearing was Maya Angelou. Listening to her wasn’t just witnessing a vocalist and spoken word master, it was witnessing a woman being phenomenal herself. That’s what I remember first and foremost — “Oh! Look, a woman! Maybe I can be one too!” Hearing her made me feel like it was a good thing to be a woman. She was tall, with a wide arm span, and a voice that commanded attention. She took up space, but trampled no one. She wrapped her hair in stamped cloth, and wore canvas cargo pants. Her poetry was music, a polyrhythmic bumpa-dee-bump-dance of living. She baked Quiche Lorraine. I went home and found a pair of canvas cargo pants my own size. She’s been a lifelong inspiration.

I studied in Nicaragua and Mexico in my twenties, and dove into works of César Vallejo, Nicolás Guillen, Pablo Neruda, Roque Dalton, Ernesto Cardenal, Claribel Alegria, and Giaconda Belli. I read their poetry aloud to myself. That was how I developed an intimate relationship with Spanish, and, later, Portuguese via capoeira music. I was raised in California, and heard Spanish on the yard in school. Eventually, I picked it up, and poetry helped. The poet Francisco X. Alarcon welcomed me into his Spanish for Spanish Speakers class, and poetry came flooding in. Reading aloud, I loved the sound on my lips. Learning a language is a kind of love relationship. This happened to me in three languages (English, Spanish, and Portuguese).

My mother’s first language was Hebrew, but my dad was monolingual English. He lost his mother’s native Russian, and I lost my mother’s Hebrew and Yiddish. I wish I’d learned the languages of my own origins (Hebrew, Yiddish, Russian), but I picked up the ones that loved me back, the ones I lived with.

3. How aware were you of the dominating presence of older poets?

I don’t want to feel dominated by anything, even great poets. If anything, poetry is about freeing myself from all kind of domination. I don’t seek to dominate or be dominated. I seek equilibrium and honesty. I seek wonder and gratitude for living.I am grateful for the presence of older poets. Since I am getting older every day, even my silver hair is a flag to the aging process. Thich Nhat Hanh said, “I am of the nature to die.” I watch older poets to see how they navigate living, and, also, aging. How can we live and write well at every stage of life? How can we be creative at every stage? I read and listen to ancestral poets, and I embrace my relationship to the archive. I feel them as extended family — people who were whispered into, just like me. Adrienne Rich. Mary Oliver. Toni Morrison. Zora Neale Hurston. I don’t compare myself, I just feel related. Living well is not a competition. I’m not trying to achieve or prove anything, just take advantage of being alive.

Unlike Bob Kaufman, I don’t want to disappear when I die. That is not because of ego, it’s because I want to remain in relationship with other writers always, whether I am living or not. The archive has unfathomable dimensions.

Intersectional women deserve to be in there along with everybody else. I want to be a part of that, even if I am just one tiny blue-green thread, or a strand of red-tangerine.

4. What is your daily writing routine?

My knee jerk reaction to that question is, “If I told you I’d have to kill you.” I guess I’m protective of the creative process. It’s a mysterious thing, not something you can just pick up in a supermarket by the dishwashing liquid. Although, maybe that could make a good grocery shopping poem.

I have daily and seasonal writing routines. As a working person, and head of household, I start my day early with writing and ashtanga before work. With limited time, I accumulate small pieces of writing throughout the academic year and rely on the slower summer months to piece mosaics together. I value my job, but my writing life needs time too. So, when other folks dream of summer vacations, I long for stretches of quiet time off the grid. Nine months a year belong to my students. The summers are mine, and I am loyal to them because writing is a necessity.

5. What motivates you to write?

I have a writing self that wants to be expressed. It is my duty to care for her by letting her write whatever she wants. I write to fumble around in the dark and pull out stories. I write to face these times, and shine some light on living in the 21st century. Writing satisfies my adventurous spirit, and helps me feel less powerless as a woman, as a single mom, as someone from an immigrant family where many of us have gone unnoticed, injured, or completely erased. I write to be surprised. It’s the shake-shake-shake of a brown paper sack with something hidden inside. Once I was in Panama working on a popular education project. There was a carnival tradition that involved a pillow case. You fumbled your hand around inside, landed on an object, and pulled it out. Jumbled inside the sack were everyday items and things that were taboo (For example, an enormous blue dildo). Face the mystery. Take a risk. Laugh. Gasp. Weep. Feel something. Write.

6. What is your work ethic?

Fierce. I’ve been called a work horse, and I think that’s pretty accurate. Maybe a work centaur. I write every day, even if it’s just 20 minutes of jottings, so that I know how I am, and what I am thinking about on a deeper level. If I did not need a job-job, I would wake up, do yoga, write all day, and take a walking meditation at night. My idea of a good time. Throw in some dancing and we’re set. Because of writing, even if one “job” ends, I’ll just return to my real-forever-job which is stringing words together. Writing gave me my life back. Wouldn’t you work hard for something that gave you such a gift?

7. How do the writers you read when you were young influence you today?

The books that I read to my children when they were young influenced me as much as those I read when I was a child. They gave me a second childhood, perhaps one I never had. I collect books and try to adopt their courage. The stacks are to get lost in. Find a stool and pull out a book. This also applies to music and dancing. This applies to visual art and film. This applies to ferris wheels and lagoons. It applies to public libraries and the internet.

8. Who of today’s writers do you admire the most and why?

I spent months this year in the clutch of Toni Morrison’s On Self Regard, before she passed. Her intellect is expansive. Just. Expansive. Among the living, I am enriched by the enthusiasm of local writers Adrian Ernesto Cepeda, Genevieve Kaplan, and Ikia Noel because they are great practitioners, advocates, and instigators of writing. Gayle Brandeis, Deena Metzger, and Dan Bellm are guides for me toward how to write and be an upstanding human. I delight in the work of Gloria Carrera, Natalia Toledo, Aracelis Girmay, Ross Gay, Tiana Clark, Natalie Diaz, Nikky Finney, Naomi Shihab Nye, and Yusef Komunyakaa. They crisscross different cultures and languages. Their sentences break things open. They inspire me.

9. Why do you write, as opposed to doing anything else?

I used to be a dancer and choreographer. Dancing required having a big open space, limber bodies, music, costumes, lighting, gels, sound equipment, a van, crates of costumes props and instruments. I needed 30 minutes to an hour just to warm up, and then hours for rehearsal.

Writing is a creative practice that is accessible to me at this stage of my life. All I need is a pen and notebook. With those two things, I can go anywhere.

10. What would you say to someone who asked you “How do you become a writer?”

Write. Read. Observe. Express. Welcome the sound of your voice. Listen attentively to the world. Truth is a good pair of shoes. Don’t be afraid to put your work out there. Leap.

11. Tell me about the writing projects you have on at the moment.

My debut poetry collection EVEN THE MILKYWAY IS UNDOCUMENTED will be coming out in 2020 with Unsolicited Press. My son and I just recorded an audio book version and I’m excited about that. Recording that was memorable. I sat down at the microphone with him at the console. Yikes. Then I realized what I was about to do and what he was about to hear. “I am sorry. Some of this is hard,” I said. “I am honored,” he said. Just wow. Spoken word is a very particular kind of conjuring that I enjoy. Not enjoy. Adore. I don’t sing, but I will seduce the fuck out of the world with a sentence. It’s good fun. Serious magic.

I completed a collection of essays that is under review, have a new essay in the brain-que-que, and a collaborative poetry book on the horizon. I don’t want to say more until they are fully formed, but I’m really glad that writing keeps coming. That’s the whole point of completing things — make space for what wants to come next.

Wombwell Rainbow Interviews: Amy Shimson-Santo Wombwell Rainbow Interview I am honoured and privileged that the following writers local, national and international have agreed to be interviewed by me.

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The Co-Creative Coaching Model - Leadership Coaching

New Post has been published on https://personalcoachingcenter.com/the-co-creative-coaching-model-leadership-coaching/

The Co-Creative Coaching Model - Leadership Coaching

A Coaching Model Created by Silky Fischer-Lee (Executive Coach, SWITZERLAND)

Introduction

As organizations are dealing with constant changes in a highly complex and competitive market, many have fallen into a tendency to find quick answers. As an HR professional, working for a multinational company, I see today, more than ever, that we need transformational leadership to reshape our future.

Transformational leaders with high emotional intelligence can adapt to changes effectively, motivate, and engage people. This helps them to focus on the long-term vision. They are genuine and have a great awareness of themselves. They also hold themselves accountable for their actions with integrity. In many business organizations, coaching has been perceived as a consulting service that provides solutions to immediate needs, however, coaching is not a consulting service. It is “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential (ICF, n.a.)”. Coaching is a great way to develop transformational leaders in organizations.

The Co-Creative Coaching Model that I created is a transformational Leadership Coaching which emphasizes the power of a co-creative partnership between the coach and leaders in a coaching process.

The Co-Creative Coaching Model

The Business Dictionary (n.a.) describes the term “co-creation” as a “business strategy focusing on customer experience and interactive relationship”. It also points out the benefits of co-creation as a strategy that enables “an active involvement from the customer to create a value-rich experience”. In short, co-creation brings rich customer experience, encourages customer’s active involvement, and creates value.

My co-creative coaching model is based on the philosophy that acknowledges “we are resourceful and creative with energy, wisdom, ability, and genius waiting to be set in motion (ICA, 2018).”

This model was designed to create self-awareness, articulating learning, and improving self-management skills in a coaching process. It emphasizes building a strong partnership and trust between the coach and the client. It supports the client to enjoy a rich coaching experience, creating value in her or his personal and professional growth. The coach joins the client’s journey from right at the beginning and partners with the client throughout the process.

The model pragmatically provides the three critical paths to support the client in a journey of transformation.

Throughout the coaching process, the coach does the following:

Builds trust.

Is fully present.

Listens actively to the client.

Detaches their ego, personal experience, views, and perspectives from the client.

Uses powerful questioning techniques and direct communication to support the client in the exploration of herself or himself beyond what they think of themself. . The coach is able to challenge the client’s current thinking and create learning opportunities.

Shares the observations clearly without judgment.

Acknowledges the emotions and learning of the client and empowers the client to reframe perspectives.

Supports the clients to set SMART goals, design their actions and hold themselves accountable.

Helps the client understand the importance of continuous self-awareness, learning and self-management.

Path 1: Develop Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is considered “the foundation of personal growth and success (ICA, 2018)” and the fundamental for transformational leadership.

In this first path, the coach’s focus is on creating and developing awareness of the client, exploring the client’s value, purpose, passion, motivations, strengths, and challenges. The coach builds trust with the client. Based on the relations built on trust, the coach and the client will explore underlying beliefs and what has contributed to creating the way the client thinks, feels, and behaves. The client will be able to clarify what the drivers are of their life and work.

“The Wheel of Life”, “StrengthsFinder”,  journaling, or collecting feedback from family members, friends and colleagues are one of the useful tools that can be used to help the client develop their self-awareness.

Path 2: Articulate Learning

The focus of this path is on what the client learns. In this path, the client can articulate their learning based on the self-awareness they developed. While articulating learning, they will be open to change the way they used to think about themselves and their situations. During this process, the client can reframe their perspectives and explore growth opportunities from a different angle.

The coach is there to actively listen, be fully present, and acknowledge the learning. The coach uses powerful questions and direct communication to support the client to identify dis-empowering thoughts and perspectives. By bringing lightness the coach empowers the client

Different ICA power tools, plus my power tool can be used to support the client to reframe their perspective. The client can set “Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely” goals based on learning. The client articulates and documents the learning.

Path 3: Improve Self-Management Skills

Self-Management is about how we manage ourselves in our life. A self-managed person has great self-awareness, integrity, and self-management skills – “self-control, transparency, adaptability, achievement, initiative, and optimism” (Goleman, D., McKee, A., &Boyatzis, R., 2002, cited from Suess, 2015).

The deep self-awareness and learning from the previous two paths empower the client. The client can set “Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely” goals as a leader for this team and organization. The empowered client designs the actions and creates plans to achieve the goals. The client can articulate the vision, desired outcomes, and set the success measures. The client takes control of actions for the desired outcomes and holds themselves accountable for their actions. This path helps the client stay motivated despite challenges. It aids them to grow, adapts continuously, and learn from mistakes, all while being open to new ideas.

The coach takes full responsibility focusing on the client’s agenda. The coach can support the client through:

Listening actively.

Showing empathy.

Giving effective feedback.

Visualizing the client’s goals and desired outcomes.

Inviting the client to explore the different strategies and progress towards their goals.

Application

My Co-Creative Coaching  Model is designed for transformation leadership development as an internal coaching program in an organization. The model can be applied to individual coaching or group coaching sessions.

References

Businessdictionary.com (n.a.) co-creation (Online)Accessed 26 Apr 2020)

International Coach Academy (2018) Creating Awareness (Online)(Accessed 26 Apr 2020)

International Coach Academy (2019) Self-Management (Online)(Accessed 19 Apr 2020)

International Coach Federation (n.a.) Experiencing coaching (Online)(Accessed: 19 Apr 2020)

Suess, J. (2015) Power to the People: Why Self-Management Is Important (Online)(Accessed 27 Apr 2020)

  Learn How to Create Your Own Coaching Model

Your Coaching Model reflects your values, philosophies and beliefs and must communicate who you will coach and the problems you will solve.

Read more about creating your coaching model

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