Success Tip of the Week #4 and MORE
I hope you all enjoyed your long weekend and managed to have some fun and relaxation.
Interestingly this week’s tip fell on Labor Day so I thought it might be fun to deliver it on Tuesday and share a valuable lesson I learned this weekend.
Labor Day signals the end of summer and the weather here in Arizona is finally cooling off. We’re not quite there yet but the early mornings have been pleasant and cooler which is a sure sign that another beautiful winter is finally on its way. It has been a long hot summer and much has been happening here at WITO. As I sat down to write this week’s Success Tip it reminded me of the old days in school when we were all asked to write a report on how we spent our summer vacation. As I pondered this I began to realize just how much has occurred in these summer months!
- A large number of fabulous creative powerful women who dance to the same beat of the drum as I do have joined the WITO Community. In fact the numbers of you have doubled since April and most of it as a result of good old fashion word of mouth. I have had the honor and privilege to personally work with a number of you and celebrate your successes. Thanks to all of you!
- I created all the content and launched, with your wonderful input, the 21 Day Attitude Adjustment e-course.
- I just finished recording and producing my first CD, The 21 Day Attitude Adjustment CD. Both of these tasks required me to tackle and learn numerous technical skills which were previously on the “SCARY” list. (oh for a staff or the more popular term…team)
- I have written numerous articles a few of which were featured on the homepages of large self growth sites.
- I have recently been invited to co-host a teleseminar with a popular published author, (more on this soon) and have recently been approached by other self improvement experts with Joint Venture proposals.
- I am very excited about a new venture I have been working on which will be coming soon. I briefly talked about it in my last e-zine: How to Talk to a Man Over 50! This promises to be as fun for you as it has been for me in the making of it! After an arduous search I finally discovered the perfect person (man) to divulge the unabridged version of what goes on in the minds of men!! I will be filling everyone in on all the juicy details soon but I still am looking for MORE questions. So isn’t there something you are just dying to know? The questions so far have been great and I think some of the answers will surprise you! Please keep them coming and email me your questions at deborah@womenintransitiononline.com
What does any of this have to do with the tip of the week? You see there is a very valuable lesson in this that we can all learn from.
As I sat down to write this week’s tip I realized my energy was a little low. Well, ok it was very low and I felt very uninspired and a bit overwhelmed. Even though these milestones might seem small to some they were each wrought with hours of experimentation, research and often frustration. There were many times during this long summer when I was in a word, discouraged at what appeared to me as lack of progress. There were many times when well intentioned people who genuinely care about me offered their gentle suggestions that I should “go back to what I knew” or find something more secure. But each time I listened to some of this “advice” I tried to picture myself doing anything else and I just couldn’t see it. Each time I was ready to concede and perhaps through in the towel something encouraging would occur and lift my confidence and resolve and reassure me of my original purpose. Each time there was a tiny glimpse of what could be.
But here is the interesting part. It really wasn’t apparent to me just how much I had accomplished in three short months until I took the time to sit down and write it all down. It was then that it occurred to me how much I had accomplished and the many lessons I had learned over these summer months. There are way too many to list in this brief article but the biggest thing and what I think is the most important is this:
It is so easy to become discouraged and fall victim to turning our focus on what we don’t have and what we don’t do right that it blinds us to the bigger number of things we do right every day. When we allow this to happen it can begin to appear that we are not doing well when in reality we have accomplished so very much. We often don’t take the time to notice and celebrate our many successes. I am willing to bet the number of your successes far outweigh the small number of “perceived defeats.” In looking only at those perceived defeats you have made them into mountains when they are really only mole hills.
So this week’s tip; focus on all your successes and triumphs, all of them. Write them down and with the intention that nothing is too small. Your list should be really long. When you finish I think you’ll find those successes that seem small to you in comparison to your goal may be huge to someone else who has yet to take the first step. Write them down and read them over again and again. The secret to your inspiration and positive attitude will be in these words!
Now for the MORE!
If you don’t subscribe to my e-zine here are a couple of important updates!!!
The Serious Summer Sale is here! SERIOUS SAVINGS:
21 Day Attitude Adjustment E-course
The 3-Step System to Revitalize Your Life, Goals and Relationships:
When we take responsibility for our own success and happiness things really begin to happen. It’s no good to simply read books and think about doing something about our life and attitude in the future. You have to take action! If you’re not as motivated, happy or successful as you’d like to be I’d recommend you take action today. The system that will turn your life around in 21 short days is the 3-Step System for Revitalizing Your Life, Goals and Relationships. It’s available in a convenient online e-course and now includes some pretty fabulous coaching BONUSES! For all the details and to get started on changing the direction of your life FAST at an incredibly affordable price:
Oh, and by the way…this same system is now available in a CD and both are on SALE TODAY through the end of September!
21 Day Attitude Adjustment CD!
The 3-Step System to Revitalize Your Life, Goals and Relationships:
The 3-Step System to Revitalize Your Life, Goals and Relationships
So what are you waiting for?click this link for all the details and get started today!
A NEW TOOL FOR YOU!
…Attitude to me is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than success, than what other people think, say or do. It is more important than appearance, gift, or skill. It will make or break a company…a church…a home.
The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day…I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you… we are in charge of our attitudes.
- Charles Swindoll
It’s finished! It’s Done! And you helped create it!
Recently I held a workshop that many of you attended. I asked for your input and if you would share with me the key things you would find most helpful and what would be the easiest way for you to receive and absorb it. (After all, it’s only helpful if you actually get through it, right?) Soooo…
Thank you to all who responded.
This new system is now available for you and I believe this is something that will truly enhance your life, support your progress and magnify your success!
To hear more about it please click the link below and it will take you to a short presentation…
The 3 Step System to Revitalize Your Life, Goals and Relationships
P.S. I have a NEW free gift for you! Download your F.R.E.E. Special Report; Conquering Change, Take the Scary out of Transitions and receive my complimentary bi-monthly ezine by filling out the big green box at the top of the page!
A Special Announcement and Invitation!
I know, I know… it seems like I have been missing in action lately doesn’t it? But I want you to know that I have been very busy GETTING MY YEAR IN GEAR and now I am excited and pleased to share it with all of you!
A new look, new colors and new ideas and programs to help you
“Get Your Year In Gear!”
THE ANNOUNCEMENT (and busy part)
This is the time of year when many people retire the old and usher in the new.
I believe any time of year is the best time to Get Your Year in Gear and NOW is the perfect time to make the most of your life.
Are you ready to stop just going through the motions of life? Are you ready to stop waiting for a more appropriate time, place or moment to finally shape the life you love?
I have spent the past several months working on new programs to help you kick it into High Gear with the tools and support you need to make it happen. These new programs are designed to help you unlock the obstacles that hold you back from living a life without regrets that is your own unique version of the life you love.
Whether you want personal and private attention to your dreams or the powerful, effective and quite frankly fun energy of your own focus group of likeminded women there is an option that is perfect for you!
So if you’re ready for a new phase in your life take a look at these new programs and let’s TALK!
THE INVITATION (and more exciting news)
I want to cordially invite you to receive my new bi- monthly e-zine.
It will include interesting articles, occasional videos and other inspiring tidbits to keep you motivated and MO-VING toward your unique vision of the life you love.
E-zine Subscribers will enjoy advanced notification for any offered specials, upcoming F.R.E.E. webinars and fun workshops you won’t want to miss!
To SUBSCRIBE simply put your name and email address in the bright green form above and you’ll receive the bi-monthly ezine as well as the complimentary 21 Day Attitude Adjustment E-course, an incredibly simple step-by-step program that shows you exactly how to acquire and maintain a positive attitude.
My blog, which is now called Deborah Speaks, will continue but will have a different format. Yes you will still find interesting bi-monthly articles but something new has been added! Please see the P.S. below!
I have really missed communicating with you on my blog and I am eager to resume my weekly posts. Hope to see you there!
Whew! As you can see a lot has changed so take a moment and browse through the new www.womenintransitiononline.com, and while you’re here I’d love to hear your suggestions or comments. You’re opinion is important to me!
To Your Dreams…
Warmly,
Deborah deborah@womenintransitiononline.com
P.S. Even if you’re not ready for the Get Your Year in Gear Coaching programs be sure to watch for “Food for Thought” a new addition on Deborah Speaks. These are short inspirational idea and tip podcasts you can access anytime you like! They are free, fun and motivational. By the way, if you have a favorite motivational tip, don’t be stingy, share.
Holiday Stress, Not this Year; tips for a stress free season
The holidays are here and they are supposed to be enjoyable. We are adding shopping, socializing, baking, house decorating and sometimes travel into our normal activities. Let’s face it, we are human but often times we try to be all things to all our loved ones and friends. We tend to fantasize early about the Christmas of all Christmases in our mind; is it any wonder we wind up feeling inadequate, exhausted and anything but happy in the end when we just give out? We are wise women and we know this but sometimes it is easy to get caught up in the momentum and forget our own good advice. This year why not try setting early realistic goals and be left with beautiful memories of fun, shared humor and good about ourselves when it’s over. Here are some tips to remind you how to enjoy the holiday and make it memorable and stress free at the same time.
- Number 1 priority – TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. If you’re stressed and exhausted you can’t enjoy anything. This can lead to a lower immune system, feelings of resentment and a short fuse. Plan now to get a massage, manicure/pedicure sometime during this season. This is the ideal time to force you to start that morning walk ritual. A few moments alone in the fresh air can really help you center and relax. Here are some other excellent ideas to keep handy and relax:
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. My friend Sharon shared this excellent recipe for a wonderful detoxifying water drink:
Sassy Water
81/2 cups water
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger root
1 medium cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium lemon, thinly sliced
12 mint leaves
Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and chill in the refrigerator overnight. Leave all ingredients in the water thereafter. This is really good so be sure to try it.
2. We are likely to be on our feet a lot more than usual and we all know what this can do…. Here is an easy foot bath to refresh, revive and invigorate your tired aching feet after a long day of work, shopping or entertaining.
Refreshing Foot Bath
1 sprig of fresh rosemary with leaves
5 or 6 drops of tea tree oil
Fill a metal or plastic container that is large enough to comfortably fit both of your feet in with warm to hot water, depending on your comfort level. Make sure the container is large enough so the water will reach your ankles when you put your feet in. Break up and sprinkle the rosemary leaves into the water. Add the tea tree oil and gently swirl them into the water. Sit in a comfortable chair, place your feet in the bath, put your head back and relax and enjoy!
We should all remember to pamper ourselves throughout the year but during this hectic season that can test our strength and reserves it is imperative to give yourself extra time and attention. Make time, it’s important.
1. Planning. Part of the problem is we tend to think in the big picture and leave out the number of hours and time involved in our plans and we may not have the unlimited funds and army of helpers available to complete the tasks. Realize that your holiday gatherings do NOT have to be perfect. And really isn’t the perfect holiday the one where everyone had a wonderful time. (That includes you.)
- Plan now to let your family contribute to making this season a special one. Allowing family and friends to contribute will make them feel important, included and most people really appreciate the opportunity! Everyone has a special pie, dish or talent they would love to show off and share!
- Consider setting the holiday table up a day or so early with a family member or friends who also enjoys this activity. This could become a holiday ritual and bonding opportunity! I always cover the masterpiece with a sheet until the day of the dinner.
- Commit to being flexible with schedules ahead of time. Get in the flow of the holiday and be willing to let go of a planned activity that doesn’t happen and don’t stress if the dinner does not come out on the exact hour you planned.
2. Speaking of traditions and rituals. Every holiday does not have to be the same. Sit down now and choose which of your traditions are the most important to you and leave the others for another time. You can then do the job justice and will have the energy to really make it special and enjoy it. Keeps things familiar but fresh with a new idea or two. Try to size down a bit, think Quality not Quantity. And remember all those magazines and TV shows have a number of unseen heads and hands, (staff) that make works of art a reality. Here are a couple of enjoyable ideas to enjoy and can actually help you with the process at the same time.
- Have a cookie decorating afternoon. Invite your guests to an afternoon of making cookies. Everyone can bring cookie making supplies and decorate the cookies for your family gatherings. Get a goofy gift and blind vote for who made the coolest cookie.
- Include an evening of fun free holiday entertainment. Cook popcorn and watch a traditional favorite holiday movie or a drive around town to look at lights. Visit a museum or an art gallery. How about a pretty drive and stop for some hot chocolate along the way. Very relaxing and a chance to spend some quality time with loved ones. Grab your girlfriends or relatives and head for the mall and get a picture made with Santa. Rollerblade together or take an evening walk through the neighborhood and then share some Christmas cheer afterward. Be creative; sometimes the simplest activities are the best.
- Christmas wrapping parties with friends can be fun also. Gather some friends have them bring some of their presents and supplies and wrap presents together! Great conversations and ideas are born in the process.
3. BUDGET. This is an annual problem and is the number one stressor for the holiday season. Make a gift budget and stick to it. That way you won’t feel dread during the process and want to shoot yourself after it is over. Do what you need to do to stay in that budget. Draw names or reduce the number of presents you give to each person. Do some homemade gifts. There are many ways to cut back here. Offer your time or expertise in a certain area, gardening or cooking a meal or house/dog sitting and give your loved one a coupon to be used when they need it in the coming year. Many of these things are of great value to someone and often times more appreciated than anything else you could give!
And lastly, this year I am determined to make my shopping experience pleasant and not simply another pressure. I am going to do as much of my shopping as possible online and EARLY! I have already started my list and the best of what I have found is below. There are unique gifts for everyone and maybe some of these ideas will be perfect for the loved ones in your life.
Unique Gifts and Fab Finds:
Primula Flowering Tea Set with 40-Ounce Pot with Glass Lid
This is a beautiful gift for anyone who loves the ritual of a relaxing cup of tea. When placed in water the tea balls gracefully open into a delightful flower. Enchanting!
Meditation Bowl Box, Red Lotus; 3″
Take your meditations to a new level and get inspired with this singing meditation bowl. I love the image of the vining lotus on the box, symbolizing the full flower of wisdom, on the box.
Columbus Washboard 3020 Galvanized Washboard, Teak 12-7/16×23-3/4 Inches
I love collecting and tinkering with musical instruments. It seems to open some sort of gateway to my creative side!
DVD-Folk Rhythms-Learn To Play Spoons,Bones,Washboard,Hambone and the Paper Bag
Of course it will be helpful to have some intruction! This DVD covers other methods for early American music. The spoons… now wouldn’t that be fun!
AeroGrow AeroGarden with Gourmet Herb Seed Kit
What a fabulous idea! I am trying to eat more organic and fresh foods and have discovered the incredible flavor in fresh herbs. This item is on my Christmas list!
Just in case Santa doesn’t bring me my Aerogarden… I thought this herb savor was a great idea. Fresh herbs do have a tendency to go bad quicker than I can use them and this will extend their life in my fridge. It seems well worth it when you consider the expense of fresh herbs at the grocer!
Norpro 5-1/2-Inch Garlic Baker
Yum! Garlic is so good for us. Who doesn’t love the taste and smell of roasted garlic. I usually do mine on the grill so this will be perfect on those days that is impossible. It’s oven and microwave safe!
The Garlic Lovers’ Cookbook, Vol. II
I read the reviews on this book and do plan to purchase this myself. There is talk of a stuffed mushroom recipe that sounds delicious.
Fred & Friends Cool Jazz Ice Cube Trays Set of 2
These are just cool. What a great stocking stuffer.
Fred Toothpick Holder, Ouch Gray
Now this is cute. A great conversation piece and a fun gift for the person who has everything!
Polar F6 Women’s Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Pink Coral)
New Years resolutions are upon us and it will soon be time to get in shape. My daughter has this monitor and she wears it as a watch all the time. It looks great, waterproof and she loves it.
This is the perfect massage tool to relieve stress,tension and tight muscles. Best of all, you can use it on yourself !
Basic Knead Reflexology Sox – Form Fitting Foot Socks for Massage Therapy
Wait until you see the picture for this item! It feels good just looking at them.
Hmmmm. The soothing calming scent of lavender. This shawl size blanket is like floating in a piece of heaven. You can microwave it for fragrant mood elevating warmth or freeze it to soothe sore muscles and the cover is washable. Your loved one will thank you for this one.
I used to have a lavender eye mask and I wore it out. It really does relax you after a long hard day. This one has the advantage of a washable case!
Bonsai Boy’s Starter Kit
Make Your Own Bonsai Tree
The art of growing one these mystical trees require patience and care and is said to be a peaceful and rewarding experience. If you have a plant enthusiast on your list this kit includes everything the beginning artist will need. A gift the keeps on giving!
The perfect companion for the Bonsai Starter Kit to get your Bonsai enthusiast off on the right foot.
Sunrise Earth: American Sunrises (3pc) (Ws Ac3)
How about a little relaxation. I love tuning in to Sunrise Earth but often miss it as it is on EARLY. This DVD creates a wonderful peaceful environment for your home anytime during the day. Incredible scenery and the sound makes you feel as if you are there! I highly recommend any of the Sunrise Earth DVDs.
The Green Book: The Everyday Guide to Saving the Planet One Simple Step at a Time
Speaking of the EARTH! I know we are all concerned about preserving our earth’s beauty and resources for our future generations. This book is full of easy ideas to incorporate into our lives to help to just that.
I love anything by Clarissa Pinkola Estes but I am in awe every time I listen to her. She has a true gift for story telling. My latest reads are about encouraging our creative instincts and I know this will be inspiring. This is not a new recording but I do not own it, as yet! It is at the top of my Christmas list. Heloooo, Alexis, are you listening?
The 12 Secrets of Highly Creative Women: A Portable Mentor
I am in the process of reading and enjoying this book. It is full of tips on how to nourish and evoke our creative instincts. It would be a wonderful gift for any of your female friends or loved ones. If you don’t happen to have or receive this special book I would recommend you get it for yourself!
I had way too much fun shopping for these gifts. I hope you find something wonderful for your special person.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving Day! I hope you spend it surrounded by those you love and are filled with the gratitude of all that you have and all that you are.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Deborah Hayes, CTA Life Coach
Empowering women to live a life of consequence, a life without regrets that is your own unique version of the life you love. About Deborah
deborah@womenintransitiononline.com
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