Key Points

Do you have a strategy to maneuver around any challenges, or obstacles, that you will encounter on the way to achieving your goals?  You need to identify the key points that will impact your approach and response to unexpected detours on the path to the finish line that signals victory for you.  Consider these types of points when making a decision about what to do next:  view, total, and direction.  

Point of View - Others may see things differently than you do.  That is okay.  Your perspective is shaped by your environment, experiences, and expectations.  Be aware that as those three variables change, your outlook on and reactions to situations will also shift.  You can acknowledge another person's point of view without agreeing with it.

Point Total -  In competitive contests, the winner is usually the one that scores the most points.  When you are striving for your dream, your toughest competition is often you.  Give yourself points for knowing and doing the ABCs of achieving your goals - Adaptability, Belief, and Consistency.  Adapt to changing priorities, believe that you can do it, and be consistent with the required work to get what you want.

Point in the Right Direction - When you are unsure of what to do next, it helps to have someone to point you in the right direction.  A trusted advisor can help you decide on an appropriate course of action.  Do you need to turn right on red to avoid distractions?  Maybe you should turn left and pause to review the lessons learned from others.  Or, you can keep straight on your current route to get the results that represent a win for you.

Leave a comment and share what key point stood out to you this week.

Season's Greetings

When you hear the word "season", do you think of Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall?  It can also be used more generally to refer to the holidays ('tis the season to be jolly), retail sales (slow or busy season), or weather patterns (hurricane, tornado, or rainy season).  One thing that all seasons have in common is that there are defined beginning and end times.  Sometimes it can be helpful to view some situations like a sports season.  You can learn something from both wins and losses.  Greet each outcome with wisdom and insight to help you keep things in perspective.  The following quotes are examples of Season's Greetings that you can use to remind yourself or someone else of the value of wins and losses.

You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win.
 Zig Ziglar 

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There is no comparison between that which is lost by not succeeding and that lost by not trying.

Francis Bacon, Sr

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Winners learn from the past and enjoy working in the present toward the future.

Denis Waitley How you think when you lose determines how long it will be until you win.  G. K. Chesterton

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Winners have simply formed the habit of doing things losers don't like to do.

Albert Gray If you lose money you lose much, If you lose friends you lose more, If you lose faith you lose all.  Eleanor Roosevelt Leave a comment and share which of the quotes about winning and losing made an impression on you this week.

Go For It

As the end of the year approaches, do you have unfinished business?  Did you make resolutions at the beginning of the year that still have not been accomplished?  Maybe you are working on your to do list for next year  Either way, stop thinking of reasons not to pursue your goals.  Go for it!  Your "it" may be different from someone else's "it".  However, there are some common elements to consider when you go for it.  Think about the benefit, habit, and transit of what you want to do.

Benefit - Consider the impact that your achievement will have on you and those around you.  When you reach your target, what will you gain that will help others?  You may have a wider reach and more influence than you realize.  When people see you succeed, it inspires them to keep moving toward their goals.    

Habit - Consistency is an important part of your process for self-improvement and growth.  If you do something on a regular basis, it becomes part of your routine.  You may be familiar with the saying "practice makes perfect".  Athletes, doctors, and lawyers are just some of the groups that openly practice their skills to enhance them.  Establish good habits that give you the tools needed to be productive.

Transit - Progress is often measured by movement.  When you take a step toward something, you send a signal that you believe you can have it.  There is a time to think about the pros and cons of an option.  It makes sense to talk about your plans with others that may have knowledge to share.  However, at some point, you have to take some type of action to put yourself in a position to get what you want.

Leave a comment share what you will do to go for it this week.   

Fashion Show

The focal point of a fashion show is usually the clothes.  That is why people attend the event.  They want to see what the trends and styles will be for the upcoming season.  The models and catwalk are needed to showcase the designs.  There must be someone to wear the clothes and a platform for them to be displayed.  The same framework applies if you have a fashion show for your ideas, talents, and experience.  Think about it.  You share these things in order to expose them.  Your words, spoken and written, are the models.  The catwalk is the mechanism that you use to share your creativity.  It could be a blog, podcast, photograph, volunteer service, or other demonstration of your ability.

Know Your Size - Grand ideas are great, but they usually have to be broken down into smaller concepts.  Don't be overwhelmed by the big picture.  Tailor the tasks to fit your strengths.  Measure your expectations, words, and actions to fit each individual situation.  One size does not always fit all.

Wear It Well - The visible output of your efforts is a reflection of you.  When people hear or read your words, see your photographs, taste your food, or see evidence of anything you have done, they form an opinion about you.  Be aware that your reputation is built on your associations and the perceptions of others.  When those closest to you understand your purpose and passion, they are able to be effective representatives for you. 

Location, Location, Location - It is common knowledge in real estate that location is a key factor in the value of a property and how quickly it sells.  The same principle applies to the products and philosophies that you want to showcase.  Where you present your services and ideas affects how they are received.  Choose a stage that is long enough, has plenty of light, and can endure the pressure that will be put on it.

Leave a comment and share which element of the fashion show you will focus on this week. 

Care Packages

Care packages are often sent to college students and military personnel.  They contain items to let the recipients know that you miss them and are thinking of them.  It is important to reach out to people to show that you care.  You may think you don't need to let someone know how you feel about them because you assume that they already know.  Everyone likes to be reminded occasionally that they are special.  You don't always have to put food, magazines, pictures, and gifts in a box to be mailed.  Sometimes the people that need a care package from you are the ones you interact with regularly and may take for granted.  Care is made up of credibility, availability, recognition, and expression.

• Credibility means that people can believe what you say.  When you care about someone, they should be able to trust you.  

• Availability means that you make time for others.  When you show up, you show that you care.

• Recognition means that you acknowledge the efforts and accomplishments of others.  When you care, you pay attention and offer the appropriate sentiment (encouragement, congratulations, or compassion).

• Expression means that you let people know how you feel.  It can be done with words or actions.  The important thing is to do something meaningful to an individual to let them know how much you care.

Leave a comment and share what element of caring you will demonstrate this week.

Eye Drops

Do you have a vision statement?  In other words, can you see where you want to go and how you will get there?  For example, you may want to become a great chef so you plan to go to culinary school.  It is good to have a clear and concise vision.  However, there might be times when you lose sight of your goals.  There are things that can cloud your vision or obstruct your view.  When that happens, eye drops may be helpful.  They can provide relief and help you see clearly.  Common vision problems include red eyes, dry eyes, and itchy eyes.

Red eyes might be caused by tiredness.  Sometimes when you pursue something at a frantic pace, you do not take time to rest, recharge, and remind yourself why you are working so hard.  Objectivity is essential for clear vision.  It is important to recognize when your focus shifts due to a lack of energy.  The eye drops to help this problem include flexibility and balance.   Be flexible enough to consider alternative routes and methods to reach your goal.  Make sure there is balance between family, work, education, and fun.  All of these variables contribute to your vision.

Dry eyes need drops frequently to ease discomfort.  Decisions and resilience will be needed on a regular basis to support your vision.  Sometimes you may make the wrong decision.  That is when you will need to have the resilience to bounce back and keep going.

Itchy eyes are a symptom of allergies.  Identify those people or things that irritate your vision.  You may not be able to avoid them, but you can use the correct drops to lessen their impact.  Assertiveness and expectations can soothe the anxiety generated by the unknown.  Be assertive regarding what you need and let others know what you expect from them as well as what they can expect from you.

Leave a comment and share which eye drops you will use this week. 

Blind Date

Have you ever been on a blind date?  Maybe you were set up by well meaning friends or met someone online.  The word "blind" indicates that you haven't seen the person.  You have no idea what they look like.  If you consider the other definition of the word "date", then the phrase blind date could refer to a specific day and time that are unknown to you.  There are certain milestones that you acknowledge as being significant to you.  It may be your birthday, anniversary, graduation date, or another event that you mark on the calendar.  Other people may remember the same dates for different reasons that are important to them.  Have you ever wondered if there were historical events linked to dates that are special to you?  Do you know what notable people share your birthday?  You might find some interesting connections to your key dates. 

On the day that you read this post, use this link, http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history, to see what else happened on this day in history.  You can also enter other meaningful dates to see if they have historical reference.
You can go to this site, http://www.famousbirthdays.com/welcome.html, to find out who celebrates a birthday on the same day as you.

Leave a comment and share what you found out when you visited the recommended sites.

Musical Chairs

As a child, did you play the game musical chairs?  It was fun to go around in circles and race to the empty seats when the music stopped.  For adults, the phrase musical chairs may be used to describe situations where you are constantly shifting positions.  Think of the chairs as being symbolic of your point of view as you evaluate options and make decisions about what you need to do.  Three common chairs that are used over the course of your life are high chairs, armchairs, and rocking chairs.


High chairs are for toddlers.  There is a tray to keep them within the boundaries of the chair and place their food in easy reach.  A figurative high chair for you might be your job.  You may feel confined to your daily duties with no room for growth.  Frustration can build if you are able to see something you want that is beyond your reach.  Perspective and willingness to try a new approach are the counters to frustration.  Realize that you will not always be limited to your current circumstance and consider how you will proceed once you are able to move in the direction that you want.

Armchairs are often accent pieces that coordinate with larger furniture items.  They provide comfort without taking up a lot of space.   Simple gestures can serve a similar purpose.  A supportive smile, understanding nod, or encouraging thumbs up signal can make someone feel better.  Something that seems relatively small can sometimes make a big difference.

Rocking chairs represent relaxation.  The back and forth motion soothes crying babies or restless adults.   Your tone of voice and choice of words can do the same thing when you interact with others.  Speak with the intent to ease distress and promote cooperation when you sense the need for an objective opinion in an ongoing discussion.

Leave a comment and share which chair you will use this week. 

Help Wanted

The phrase "Help Wanted" usually indicates that someone is hiring for a job.  You may see the advertisement online, in the newspaper, or even in a store window.  People have help wanted requirements for situations in life as well as employment.  It is important that you recognize help when it appears.  Help may not always take the form that you expect.  Both positive and negative experiences can help you reach your goals. What do the H, E, L, and P represent in your help wanted sign?  Hurdles, Expectations, Laughter, and Problems might be more useful than you think.

Hurdles cause you to stretch farther and jump higher to get over the obstacles in front of you.  When you clear one hurdle, you gain the confidence and skills to get over the next one.

Expectations contribute to your pace and identify results that need to be met.  They can be too high or too low.  Measuring your progress against your expectations can help you adjust them to a realistic level.

Laughter relieves stress and helps you put things in perspective.  It can ease tension and provide common ground for negotiation.  Recognize when humor can benefit you.

Problems need to be solved.  They will help you strengthen and refine your analysis and troubleshooting abilities.  When you have a strategy to work through problems, they become less of a distraction for you.

Leave a comment and share which component of help (hurdles, expectations, laughter, or problems) you need to focus on this week. 

You Time

What comes to mind when you think about yourself?  Do you have thoughts about your responsibilities for and to others?  It is okay to have some you time.  Put yourself at the top of the list and take care of you.  Great men and women have provided advice and encouragement to facilitate your growth and confidence.  The quotes below highlight that you matter.  Look in the mirror and say them to yourself or send them to someone that needs to be reminded of their value.  

• Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. ~Judy Garland
• Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss
• You were born an original. Don't die a copy. ~John Mason
• If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. ~Dr Wayne Dyer
• You have to ‘Be’ before you can ‘Do’ and ‘Do’ before you can ‘Have’.  ~ Zig Ziglar
• Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life’s about creating yourself.  ~ George Bernard Shaw
• You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. ~Eleanor Roosevelt
• You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.  ~ Maya Angelou
• When life knocks you down, try to land on your back. Because if you can look up, you can get up. ~Les Brown
• You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.  ~ C. S. Lewis

Did one of these quotes strike a chord with you?  Leave a comment and share what you thought about this week's post.

Battery Sizes

Batteries are needed to power so many of the things that you use on a regular basis.  Remote controls, flashlights, and smoke detectors are just some of the items that depend on battery power.  The battery size depends on the device and its use.  You have an internal battery that enables you to operate your skills and bring your ideas to life.  What serves as the AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V power source for you?

AA - Attention, Appearance

The people, things, or situations that get your attention affect your energy level.  They can empower you to keep moving or make you feel tired with a bleak outlook.  Pay attention to what charges you and gets you excited with hope and possibility.  Your appearance also plays a part in how you feel.  When you look in the mirror, your reflection should give you a boost of encouragement.

AAA - Aspirations, Assignments, Alliances

Your aspirations drive you to work hard and keep striving for success.  Clearly identify what you want so that you can design a plan to get it.  Assignments are a key variable for increasing and maintaining your influence and regard among others.  When you are asked to do something, find out how it fits into the big picture.  Look for a way to add value to any situation.  Form alliances that contribute to your goals and expose you to new possibilities.

     

C - Courtesy

When you are courteous, people take notice.  They remember how you treat them and others around you.  Courtesy helps you build bridges over obstacles.  People respond well to kindness and graciousness.

D - Depth

Depth contributes to your battery power because it indicates that you are well-rounded.  You have more options and are able to prioritize your steps more effectively when there are layers to your planning and experience.  Do not be one-dimensional.  Broaden your horizons by moving in diverse circles.  Equip yourself with knowledge of current events so that you can participate in conversations about a variety of topics. 

9V - View

The capability to shift your point of view allows you to recharge when you deem it necessary.  It is helpful to use these 9 views on a rotating basis:

• Preview - Look at samples of what is in store for you. When you have an idea of what is coming, you can prepare accordingly.
• Review - Use the opinions of others (positive and negative) for motivation to improve.
• Interview - Ask questions of those that offer you suggestions.  Make sure they are qualified to advise you.
• Purview -Before you commit to do something, make sure you know what is expected of you. 
• View from the Top - You can identify ways to help others grow and advance. 
• View from the Bottom - Don't be overwhelmed by what you see.  Move up one step at a time.
• View from the Middle - Being able to see all sides of a situation increases your value to all parties involved.
• View from the Front - Leadership involves the ability to anticipate problems before they arise.
• View from the Back - Evaluate the steps of those leading you to make sure you are on the right path.

Leave a comment and share the battery sizes that you will use this week.

Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow (YTT)

As you move through your week, you may evaluate your progress by what happened yesterday, what is happening today, and what will happen tomorrow.  Those three points of reference are commonly used as markers for your planning.  Your YTT activities can provide a road map to help you navigate the route to your desired destinations.  Consider yesterday, today, and tomorrow as variables in an equation to help you make decisions about your movements.

Where did you go yesterday that made you smile?  Was it work, school, the grocery store, or somewhere else?  Use the smile as a landmark to mark the place, or activity that leaves you with a positive feeling.

What are you doing today to build yourself up to reach your next level of accomplishment?  Complete at least one task each day to strengthen your foundation of preparation.  Put the milestones on your calendar to remind you that you need to make time for them.

Are you excited about tomorrow?  Do you expect something positive to happen to you?  Put yourself in a position to receive good news, meet great people, or take advantage of unexpected opportunities.  Your environment contributes to your experiences. 

Leave a comment and share a yesterday, today, or tomorrow moment that impacted you this week.

Before and After

To present a picture of the magnitude of a change, before and after comparisons are often made.  You see it on commercials for weight loss products and programs that feature makeovers.  Usually, the after story is highlighted as the better option.  However, if you apply the before and after model to your thought process, both statuses can help you.  There are times that you need to think before you do something.  There other times that you need to think after something happens.

1. Think before you identify yourself. While your name is your primary introduction tool, there are other labels that can be used.  Depending on the situation, you may want to be known by your role (parent, coach, doctor, lawyer, etc.), association (friend of, fan of, spouse of, etc.), or attribute (friendly, smart, creative, etc.).
2. Think after someone thanks you.  Is the appreciation for what you did or how you did it?  Does the gratitude have anything to do with you at all?   When you recognize the behavior you exhibit that positively impacts others, you can make an effort to display it more often. 
3. Think before you turn on noise (radio, television, computer, etc.) in the car or the house.  The background sound may be a welcome distraction from a busy day.  However, quiet time may also be refreshing and the silence can help you set priorities.
4. Think after you lose someone or something.  There will be lessons learned and memories that will make you smile.  These things can help you adjust to the change and move forward.  You will feel the loss, but don't allow emotion to dictate how you view your new reality.  Think about the value that you received from your association and look for ways to share that with others.

  Leave a comment and share a before or after thought that you will use this week.

Family Feud

When you watch the Family Feud game show on television, do you usually get all of the answers right?  Do you ever wonder where they find the 100 people that take the survey?  The responses are often funny and unexpected.  Who would you take with you to compete on the show?  Which relatives would give you the best chance to win?  Think about it carefully.  The people that you love the most may not be the best choices.  You need four teammates that will help you beat the other family.  Remember, this is a feud so pick your best weapons.

Pass or Play - This person has to be fast enough to hit the button first and give a high ranking answer (preferably number one).  Who do you know that is quick to respond with relevant information?  Once you have control of the board, or situation, you must make a decision.  Do you want to run with it from start to finish or turn it over to someone else to do the preliminary work for you?  Sometimes it is more beneficial to take a step back and watch what the competition can do.  Just be ready to step in if they stumble.

Good Answer - Inevitably, your family will have two strikes and someone will have to provide a possession saving answer under pressure.  Who do you call on when your back is against the wall?  When you have tried multiple ways to solve a problem, who usually gives you a viable option that hadn't crossed your mind?

Fast Money - If you reach this stage of the game, it means that you defeated the other family.  It is now time to select your best two players to try to win $20,000.  Great teamwork is needed in order to reach the required 200 points.  You need to pair your best Pass or Play (speed) person with the best Good Answer (pressure) person for success.  When your family, or team, is at a make or break point, assign your resources wisely to achieve the desired result.

Leave a comment and share who the Pass or Play, Good Answer, and Fast Money people are in your life.  Share this post with them and let them know you value the strengths they bring to the table.

Spice Rack

Do you use spices when you cook?  They can add flavor and personality to a dish.  Spice racks contain the diverse tastes of many regions.  You can travel to Italy, Mexico, or the Mediterranean just by selecting the corresponding spice.  What are the figurative spice racks that you use to help you sample different destinations?  Your family and friends can represent different seasonings for your travel itinerary. Spend time with the people that make your taste buds happy.  Music is another source of spice in your life.  What is playing on the radio, compact disc, or MP3 player can change your attitude.

Identify the basil (finisher) and cumin (spicy) people in your life.  Basil should be applied to food near the end of cooking in order to maximize the flavor.  You have advisors that should be used in the same fashion.  Consult them when what you are doing is almost done.  Their job is to tweak, or enhance, a finished product.  They are not the ones to help you build something from the beginning.  Cumin makes any meal hotter.  It adds the kick to food.  There is someone in your circle that lights a fire under you.  They hold you accountable for assignments and deadlines.  When it looks like you are losing focus, they push, pull, and harass you until you are back on track.

There are also spice songs that can help you move forward.  What are the cinnamon (sweet) and thyme (starter) tunes that motivate you to take risks and explore unknown territory?   Cinnamon is commonly used in desserts.  It has a distinct aroma and taste.  You may get a warm and fuzzy feeling when it hits your tongue.  Is there a particular type of music that has the same effect on your ears?  Maybe listening to jazz or classical selections puts a smile on your face.  It could be a popular theme song from a television show or movie that reminds you of your wins and makes you want to stay in the game.  Thyme releases it flavor slowly so it needs to be added at the beginning of the meal.  Are there songs that you need to hear in the mornings to get your day off to a great start?  If you play I Believe I Can Fly by R. Kelly before you leave the house, those words may remain with you all day.  The beat and words of I Feel Good by James Brown can energize you and set the tone for the day.  Use music to season your mood the way you use spices to season your food.

Leave a comment and share the people and music that are on your spice rack.

Key Chains

Key chains contain a diverse assortment of items.  There are usually some standard keys that open locks or start cars.  Often you also see the shopping reward cards that can help you save money.  All of these things coexist on the key chain and are at your fingertips when you need them.   Similarly, your actions and reactions can help you in a variety of ways.  Choose the one that is the best fit for what you what to accomplish.

Your actions are the keys that control the access to the information and people that you need to know.  The things that you do establish a record and perception of you for others to evaluate.  Remember that the results, or consequences, of your actions can provide opportunities for you to grow.  The keys on your chain should include an investment, signature, and greeting.  You must invest your time in order to discover what works for you.  Do not provide your signature, or endorsement, to anything without a clear understanding of what you are supporting.  What you approve or recommend influences the opinion that others have of you.  How you greet a situation can set the tone for how you deal with it.  Try to meet challenges calmly and treat them as learning experiences.

Reactions are tools that can help you impact the environment around you.  Like the customer reward cards, the appropriate reaction can earn you points, or benefits.  Sometimes the best reaction is no reaction at all.  Allow yourself time to process what is said or done to you before responding to it.  Decide whether a verbal or nonverbal expression is needed.  A warm smile might yield better results than trying to find the right words.  An understanding nod can establish a bond that will be useful at another time.  When a verbal response is necessary, be mindful of the tone, volume, and length.  Your reactions can stoke the flames of a fire or lay the foundation for an amicable discussion.

Leave a comment and share how you have used the actions and reactions on your key chain.

Pots and Pans

How do you use your pots and pans?  Do you boil water or saute vegetables?  You probably use them to cook nourishing meals for your body.  When you apply heat to pots and pans, the contents change temperature and texture.  The pots and pans discussed in this week's post can also be used to refresh and strengthen you mentally. 

Potato - This "pot" is a side dish that can be baked, fried, or mashed.  The appearance and presentation may change, but the content remains the same.  There is more than one version of your ideas and dreams.  Be informed and observant enough to recognize when what you want is right in front of you. 

Pancake - This "pan" is commonly eaten for breakfast.  You need to flip it at the right time during preparation so that it will cook evenly.  Once it is done, it can be topped with something sweet to enhance the taste.  As you juggle the many responsibilities that you have, remember to flip between them at regular intervals in order to maintain a balance.  Pour appreciation on your friends and family to let them know that they matter to you.  Sprinkle preparation and intent on your career and education in order to work efficiently and effectively.

Spotlight - What do you do when you need to renew your focus on a goal?  Do you shine a spotlight on what you are trying to achieve or what has distracted you?  You control how you distribute your attention.  Do not allow temporary setbacks to overshadow the display of your confidence, perseverance, and adaptability. 

Panorama - Do you look at the big picture when deciding on a course of action?  A panoramic view exposes multiple angles and dimensions.  There may be something in the corner or background that can help you evaluate your options.  Build relationships to help you widen your opportunity circle.

Leave a comment and share what pots and pans you will use to help you this week.

Revolving Doors

Revolving doors are in constant motion.  Although the doors go around in circles, there is an opening for people to enter and exit the building.  When you hear the phrase "going around in circles", you may think that no progress is being made.  That is not necessarily true.  As long as you recognize where the opening is, you can move past the barrier of the door.  This works for a physical door as well as a mental block, or obstacle.  Look for open minds, open hearts, and open communication to help you identify the right spots to step into the place you want to be.

Open minds are able to process what they receive with objectivity and patience.  As information revolves through the doors of your mind, you must decide how to interpret it.  Take your time and determine how you can use what you read and hear to your advantage. While you may have preconceived notions about some things, consider that there may be room for you to discover a fresh perspective.

Open hearts allow you to connect with others that can help you reach your destination.  Be aware that as people revolve through the doors of your life, they may also need your assistance.  When they leave something of value with you, make sure that you are not causing a void, or deficit, for them.  Deposit your wisdom, grace, and optimism into those around you in order to enrich their lives.

Open communication is necessary for you to make informed decisions regarding where you are going and how you will get there.  When you ask questions, make sure that you pause to really listen to the answers.  Pay attention when people are talking to you, so that you can learn and grow from the interaction.  When you are providing an answer to a question, remember that others may not comprehend things the way that you do.  Strive to present information in a way that makes sense to the person that needs to grasp it.

Leave a comment and share how you will open your mind, heart, and communication to achieve your goals.

Greeting Cards

Do you like giving and receiving greeting cards? They commemorate special occasions and let people know that you are thinking of them.  The cards can usually be grouped according to whether they are referencing a past, present, or future event.  Examples include thank you, birthday, and shower cards.  Your thought process to select cards for others can help you encourage yourself.

Thank you cards are given to express appreciation for something that has been done.  Maybe someone showed you hospitality or gave you a gift.  It is appropriate to thank them for a past act.  However, what do you do when you want to thank yourself?  If you do yourself a favor by keeping your cool when someone tries to push your buttons, write a note to yourself to express gratitude for exhibiting grace under pressure.  When you make healthy eating choices in a restaurant or wise spending choices at the mall, call and leave yourself a voice mail to say thank you for taking good care of your body and finances.

Birthday cards celebrate you and the date of your birth.  The focus is on the present.  They make you feel special on that particular day.  When you receive a birthday card, you might also get cake or balloons.  It is usually a festive atmosphere.  You can also acknowledge other births, or beginnings when they occur.  Each day you have the opportunity for a fresh start.  You can give birth to ideas that will change your life.  Each slice of your creativity cake differentiates you from others.  Keep a journal (birthday card) to record your thoughts regarding the new goals that you set for yourself as well as the daily progress towards meeting them. 

Cards for baby and bridal showers are given for events that will occur in the future.  The anticipation of what is to come provides a reason for people to come together to offer kind words and gifts.  Have a shower for yourself as you near the completion of a significant achievement.  It is customary to have a party after a graduation or athletic competition.  However, you can encourage yourself to keep going if you reward yourself along the way.

Leave a comment and share what greeting cards you will get for yourself this week.

Baskets

Baskets are containers that hold all sorts of things for you.  They come in different colors, shapes, and sizes.  What they contain is what defines them.  Think about how the contents can positively impact you.  It is just as important to empty them as it is to fill them in order to always have a fresh supply of what you need.  Consider the symbolism of laundry, fruit. and bread baskets.

Laundry baskets hold the dirty clothes that need to be washed and the clean clothes that have dried.  It is important to maintain a balance between issues that need to be addressed (washed) and situations that should be put away (dried). 

Fruit baskets have different edible treats.  They provide healthy snack options.  As you juggle the many responsibilities that you have in your busy life, remember to allow time for breaks (snacks).  Your fruit, or treat, basket should contain things that fit your taste.  You do so much for everyone else, make your much needed leisure time about you.

Bread baskets might be on the table at the beginning of a meal.  You may have toast, rolls, biscuits, muffins, or other varieties of bread.  Hopefully the contents of the basket will be warm and fresh.  Those are two characteristics that can also be used to describe your attitude as you begin new journeys.  Your warm interaction with others and fresh ideas will work to your advantage.

Leave a comment and share how your laundry, fruit, or bread basket can help you this week.

BOGO

The term "BOGO" is commonly used in retail adverstisements to indicate that if you buy one product, you could get another one free or for half price.  Often the product involved is shoes, but it could also be grocery items, clothing, eyeglasses, or other consumer goods.  The attraction is that it is better to have two of something, especially if you can get the second one for free or at a reduced cost.  BOGO can be used as an acronym for other things.  Apply your own meaning to the letters to make them applicable to you.  You can think of BOGO as one of the following:

• Back Off Get On
• Back off of habits that continue to get you off track.  Decide where you want to go and plan the route to get there.  Get on the path that is marked with landmarks to let you know you are going in the right direction.
• Break Out Get Over
• Break out of your shell, or comfort zone, to explore new opportunities.  Change can be a good thing.  Get over self-imposed hurdles that can hinder you.
• Be Objective Grade Options
• Be objective when presented with alternatives for your next move.  Grade options based on how they can contribute to your long term goals, not just on the immediate impact.

Leave a comment and share which of the BOGO meanings above is most relevant to you this week.

Cheesecakes, Cookies, and Cupcakes

Do you like your desserts plain or with toppings on them?  Maybe it depends on what the dessert is and what topping is paired with it.  Three popular tasty treats are cheesecakes, cookies, and cupcakes.  Does your mouth water just thinking about them?  If the desserts represent thoughts that make you happy, then the toppings would be the covering, or hair, to highlight your creativity.

Cheesecake is often topped with berries.  They add color, juice, and texture to each slice.  Identify a place that does those things for you.  Where do you go when you need to brighten your mood, recharge your energy, and plan your next move?

Cookies may not have things sitting on top of them, but you can see the treats peeping through the surface.  Chocolate chips, raisins, and M&M candies are sweet, chewy and crunchy morsels that blend with the cookie dough and enhance the flavor.  What adds a little extra joy to your day and puts a smile on your face?  Is it all green lights on your commute to work, a hug from your child, a marathon of your favorite television series, or something else?   

Cupcakes are topped with different flavors of icing, or frosting.  The design is usually a swirl that ends with a cute tip.  What has been swirling around in your head lately?  Do you have an idea for something fun?  Maybe you are thinking about starting a new chapter or ending a current one.  The swirl should make you happy, not cause you stress.

Leave a comment and share if you have had an cheesecake, cookie, or cupcake moments recently.  Also remember to vote in this week's poll about desserts.

Favorite Things

Your favorite things can tell others something about you.  Sometimes you may not realize that you are connected to those around you by similar likes and dislikes.  Common categories for favorite things include sports teams, gadgets, and restaurants.  You may be able to easily identify your favorites for these things.  It might be more interesting and thought provoking to look at other favorite things that help define you. 

Think about your favorite in each of the following categories:

• Quote - What is it?  Who said it?  Why do you like it?  It doesn't have to be something from a famous person.  It might be words of wisdom from your mother or grandmother.
• Time of Day - Are you a morning, afternoon, evening, or night person?  When are you at your best?
• House Cleaning Task - It may seem odd to think about liking to clean house, but some chores are better than others.  Do you like doing dishes, laundry, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, or some other activity? 
• Photo - It could be a baby picture, graduation picture, wedding portrait, vacation photo, or photograph of a loved one that evokes special memories.  If photography is your profession or hobby, it may be something from your portfolio.

Leave a comment and share what came to mind when you considered your favorite quote, time of day, house cleaning task, and photo.  Remember to vote in this week's poll about another one of your favorites.

Dance Moves

Are you a dancer?  Do you watch the popular dancing shows on television and try to imitate the moves?  Most dances can be categorized as either solo, partner, or group (line).  Do you prefer one style over the others?  What do your dance habits say about you?  Dancing can be a metaphor for how you handle some of the things that life throws at you.   

Some of the popular (past and present) solo dances include the twist and the dougie.  You can do them by yourself and add your own individual style to them.  These two examples also have signature songs attached to them.  Identify some songs that might describe your motto for each day.  Examples might be "I Will Survive", "I Believe I Can Fly", or "Man in the Mirror".  Focus on the steps that you can do to improve any situation.

Examples of partner dances are the tango and waltz.  You may be assigned a leader or follower role.  The key point is that you have someone to help you perform the routine.  You will need to communicate with your partner regularly to make sure each person knows what to do, how to do it, and when to do it.  In order for you to hit your mark on a consistent basis, practice is necessary.  Don't become so comfortable with your talents that neglect to hone them.  When someone else is depending on you to be there for them, make sure you are in place to catch, guide, or support them.

Group, or line, dances are usually well known and may be done at large gatherings.  The electric slide is popular at weddings and family reunions.  During the height of the macarena craze, it was often performed during sporting events.   If you are uncertain of what comes next, look around you to see what the others are doing.  Enjoy yourself in the midst of a crowd that is moving in the same direction.  Don't worry if you miss a step.  Laugh it off and keep dancing.  Have fun and give your mind a rest from the daily stress caused by work, family, health, and other issues.

Leave a comment and share something about the last time that you danced.

Thick and Thin

How do you measure relationships?  Do you have different categories for your friends and family?  You may hear someone refer to some of their friends as people who will stick with them through thick and thin.  It is comforting to receive unconditional love from those who are closest to you.  However, don't discount those folks that only fit in either the thick or thin group.  Everyone is not equipped to go through your crises and dilemmas with you.  Some people may be better suited for leisure and celebration activities.  Call them when you want to see a movie, have lunch, or get your nails done.  Then there are the people who function best when confronted with chaos and despair.  They may not fit well with your fun and festive group.   It's okay to have a diverse circle of friends.  Looking at how hair may be thick or thin can illustrate the point.

Thick hair can be tangled and hard to manage.  Similarly, there are situations in life that are difficult for you to handle.  Reach out to those connections that can help you cope and endure troubling times.  People on your thick list will be patient, focused, and observant.  They listen with purpose and provide a safe place for you to work through your issues.

Thin hair might have gaps that require coverage.  Some people use wigs, toupees, ponytails, or weaves to create a fuller look.  The folks on your thin list can serve a similar role.  You want to associate with people that add volume and depth to areas where you may need some help.  Form alliances that can help you work on your weaknesses as well as highlight your strengths.

Do you know who will be with you through thick and thin?  Let them know that they are appreciated.  Leave a comment and share how you have benefited from both thick and thin support.

Red, White, and Blue

Do you have big plans for the 4th of July holiday?  The skies will be beautiful with the colors of all of the firework celebrations.  You will see plenty of red, white, and blue decals and banners on display.  As you reflect on American independence and patriotism, take the time to  acknowledge your own victories.  The Declaration of Independence mentions life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  Are you in possession of, or actively working on, these attributes?  It may help you answer the question if you align the colors (red, white, and blue) with the inalienable rights (life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness).

Red (Life) - Live life to the fullest.  Experience is the best teacher.  Don't be reckless, but try new and exciting things from time to time in order to widen your perspective on what you can do.

White (Liberty) - You have the freedom to develop yourself and shape your present and future reality.  Wipe the slate clean of negative things that held you back in the past.  You determine how long you subject yourself to restrictive boundaries and barriers.

Blue (The Pursuit of Happiness) - As you work toward becoming the best possible you, remember to clearly identify the finish lines along the way.  There will always be new goals, dreams, and challenges to conquer.  Try to avoid going in circles to reach your destination.  Know where one journey ends and the next one begins.  Happiness is a state of mind.  It can be achieved for one thing that is complete while other things are still a work in progress.  

Leave a comment and share the color that is boldest for you this week.

Hop, Skip, and a Jump

Are you familiar with the phrase "hop, skip, and a jump"?  It is used to describe how close you are to something.  What you want may be within your sight or reach sooner than you think.  You have to be aware of your surroundings and understand that the opening for you to move forward may not be obvious.  Sometimes it is necessary for you to look beyond what is in front of you and prepare for what is around the corner.  Detours are not always bad.  They expose you to new routes and expand your boundaries.  Have you put some things on hold this year or delayed the pursuit of dreams?  They may only be a hop, skip, and jump away.

Hop in when the practice train slows down and opens it doors for you.  It is important to work on your skill (talent, trade, dream, etc.) as often as possible.  If it is singing, cooking, writing, painting, speaking, or any other gift that you want to pursue, then do it repeatedly in order to perfect it.

Skip over the distractions that will lead to frustration and discouragement.  Learn how to make productive use out of unexpected down time.  If you're stuck in traffic, listen to books on tape that will enrich you.  When someone shares bad, or negative, news with you, determine if you can do something about the situation.  If not, a listening ear or shoulder to lean on may be all that you can offer.  Do what you can without getting overwhelmed by what is out of your control.

Jump on the things that you know that you need to do as soon as possible.  Do not procrastinate.  When you gain momentum, keep going.  Set up a consistent routine and do your best to stick to it.  If you need to make calls, sort mail, study, rehearse, or develop samples of your work, select a time/day to devote your attention to it. 

For the second half of this year, get ready to hop, skip, or jump to make things happen for you.  Leave a comment and share your thoughts on this week's post.

Rubber Bands

Rubber bands are small items that can make a big impact.  They can hold things together or control something that may be out of order.  Sometimes they are used to keep hair out of your eyes or off of your neck.  In other words, the rubber band can clear your vision or help you keep your cool.  What are the symbolic rubber bands that you use on a regular basis?  What helps you clear the clutter from your path as you pursue your goals?  How do you maintain a calm demeanor in the midst of conflict? One of the benefits of rubber bands is that they are elastic.  They have flexibility and can be stretched to fit different shapes.  Similarly, your figurative bands should be able to adapt to meet your needs.   Some common ones that may help you are bite, attitude, nap, and definition.

Bite - As a child, you may have been told not to bite off more than you could chew.  This is still good advice.  Your vision (desire) is sharper when you divide it into smaller, manageable segments.  You are also less likely to become overwhelmed and display frustration when you divide the plan into reasonable bites (tasks).

Attitude - You control your response or reaction to any situation.  If you see the glass as half full, you can focus on how to fill the second half.  When you see it as half empty, you may become stressed trying to figure out how to maintain the level and not lose what you have.  A positive attitude will be one of the keys to your success.  Try to think in terms of possibilities and not limitations. 

Nap - You may not be able to actually take a nap when you lose sight of the finish line or get upset about something.  The point of the nap being referenced here is not to go to sleep.  It is to remind you that sometimes it is wise to step back and take a break.  You can recharge and get a fresh perspective when you have time away from an issue.

Definition - Most words have multiple definitions.  Rarely is there only one way to look at something.  Explore the different meanings that can be used to describe your interactions and experiences.  Once you understand what is really being said or done, you can plan how to make it work to your advantage.

Leave a comment and share which band might benefit you most this week.

Tea Bags

Are you a tea drinker?  It can be a soothing beverage in the winter and the summer.  When the weather is cold or you have a sore throat, a nice cup of hot tea may help you feel better.  On a hot and humid day, a tall glass of iced tea can be very refreshing.  Tea bags come in different sizes and contain leaves with different flavors.  The thing that is consistent is the tag attached to the string.  It allows you to remove the bag from the water once the tea has been brewed, or steeped, to your liking.  Try some of the teas below to see which one quenches your thirst the best.

Teaching others often allows you to learn new things about yourself.  Find ways to share your wisdom, skills, and lessons learned with people that can benefit from your experience.

Teamwork is the foundation that enables someone to accomplish things that may have been beyond their individual grasp.  The collective contributions of the group provide confidence, security, and direction to each team member.

Instead is a word that indicates that you have options.  Get educated regarding your choices so that you can make informed decisions.  Anticipate what will come next if you select "A" instead of "B".

Leave a comment and share which of the above "teas" is your preferred drink.

Stepping Stones

Do you have a green thumb?  Some people have the most beautiful gardens.  While the flowers and plants are the centerpieces of the space, some of the accessories can help make the garden memorable.  Wind chimes, trellises, and stepping stones contribute to the theme, or design, of the area.  Stepping stones are placed strategically throughout to allow you to walk through the garden and not get dirt on your shoes.  Those stones can represent the things that you need to stand on to help you travel the path to growth and productivity.  The labels for your stones might be speech, tenacity, objectivity, negotiation, and environment.

Speech is the stone that allows you to clearly communicate your desires, intentions, and needs.  Your words can travel and open doors for you.

Tenacity is the stone that enables you to keep moving when you lose your balance or take a misstep.   Your determination to succeed will allow you to get back up and keep going.

Objectivity is the stone that helps you evaluate your options based on facts, not emotion.  The ability to see through the clutter of a situation makes you a more effective decision maker.

Negotiation is the stone that provides room for others to walk with you.  Even if you have different destinations, there may be a common path for part of the journey. 

Environment is the stone that can shape your thinking regarding what is around you.  Look for potential, possibilities, and purpose and you will find them.

Leave a comment and share the stones that you will stand on this week.

Highlight Reel

People sometimes get highlights in their hair to accent their natural color or to make themselves stand out in a crowd.  You have seen the ones with green, purple, or orange streaks.  You may actually like the brighter hues for you own look and style.  If they work for you, wear them with confidence.  Even if you do not have highlights in your hair, you do have them in other places.  If you are interested in the NBA playoffs, you can always keep up with what happens in the games by watching the highlights on the various sports shows.  You may not be a professional athlete, but you can have your own highlight reel.  Think of the slam dunks, blocked shots, and fast breaks that you have completed recently.  They might not have been on television, but others can visualize them when you talk about them.

Slam dunks are those accomplishments that you finish with decisive exclamation points.  It's okay to show a little swagger every now and then.  If you reach a weight loss goal, wear a bold and colorful outfit to show off your new figure.  When you celebrate a milestone birthday, graduation, or retirement, don't wait on someone else to acknowledge the occasion.  Throw yourself a party.

Blocked shots represent your ability to rise to meet the challenges to your plans.  You can deflect distractions by being in position to see them coming.  Monitor your health by having regular physicals, dental exams, eye exams, and any other tests that are recommended for your gender and age.  You can prevent, or block, some illnesses before they manifest.  Procrastination may cause you to feel pressure  as you approach certain deadlines.  When you put things off until the last minute, there may be anxiety and stress.  You can block procrastination with accountability.  Impose penalties on yourself for not working toward your objectives at a consistent pace.

Fast breaks are those opportunities that present themselves to you unexpectedly.  You must be prepared to take action quickly.  If you want to get a new job or start a business, you never know when you will need to promote your most valuable product - you.  It may not be a formal interview or sales pitch.  You may be in the grocery store or at the dry cleaners when a casual conversation with another customer reveals that they have a need for your service or product.  Information is a valuable commodity.  Expose yourself to a variety of topics and be aware of current events.  You may not have the answer to a question, but if you are able to point someone in the right direction then you are viewed as a key link, or bridge.  It is good to be known as someone that can connect the dots.

Leave a comment and share the slam dunks, blocked shots, and fast breaks that you have executed recently.    

Repair or Replace

The things that you use on a regular basis eventually begin to show wear and tear.  Appliances, cars, electronics, clothes, and shoes are some examples of items that need to be maintained.  Even if you take excellent care of  your things, at some point they will no longer work as designed.  If something has served its purpose and is no longer needed, you might decide to throw it away.  More often, you will probably decide if you want to repair or replace it.  What factors do you consider to make that call?

Repairing an item may be the best choice if you are dealing with something that has sentimental value to you.  If it cannot be replaced, then you want to do everything possible to preserve it.  Promises and non-digital photographs are examples of things that are not easily duplicated.  If they are broken or destroyed, you feel a sense of loss.  A typical repair kit might include tape or glue.  You need an adhesive to put things back together again.  Identify the people, places, or things that function as bridges in your life.  They can help you put together the broken pieces.  A close friend may be able to provide the right words of support when you need to fix a situation.  A spa or favorite vacation spot can improve your perspective on difficulties that you may be experiencing.  If you have a motto or song that inspires you, it might help you establish a bond with others.

Replacements are needed when something is damaged beyond repair or you want a newer, improved model.  Technology changes at such an amazing pace (mobile phone, computers, cameras, televisions, etc.) that a lot of people get new devices every few years.  People and relationships are not that interchangeable.  However, roles and responsibilities can be reassigned, or replaced.  As you grow and become exposed to different experiences, some people in your circle may not be able to advise you as they have in the past.  You still love them and value their opinion, but must recognize when someone else is better equipped to assist you.  If you get in a situation that is slightly over your head, a lifeguard (family member or friend) can rescue you.  When you are lost at sea and cannot see the shore, you need the Coast Guard (an experienced team of people trained to search and rescue).  Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.  Know the difference between who can throw you a life preserver and who will jump in to pull you out of trouble.

Leave a comment and share areas where you may need repairs or replacements. 

Crosswalks

Do you always use the crosswalk when going to the other side of the street?  There is an automated signal to alert you when it is safe to step in the road.  It is usually easy to spot the crosswalks.  There are the white lines in the street and the poles on the sidewalks.  Wouldn't it be nice if there was a walk or don't walk instruction for everything that you do in life?  You can apply the principle to common things like eating or shopping.  If you are adopting a healthier diet, you may ask should you eat certain things.  When you are shopping, depending on cost or style, you might ask if you should buy something.  The common denominator between the crosswalk, eating, and shopping is that you have to make a decision.

When you were a child, do you remember your parents telling you to look both ways before crossing the street?  That is still good advice today and it can be used to help you recognize the best time to pursue some of your goals.  Consider what is coming on your right (pros) and what is approaching on your left (cons).  Make a list for comparison.  The objective is to avoid getting hit by traffic, or those things that will impact you negatively.  You don't want to get run over, or overwhelmed, by worst case scenarios.  Be patient when selecting your openings to make moves regarding career, relationships, major purchases (home, car, etc.),  and other life changing events.  Look for the signals that will tell you when it is safe to make the first step toward the next leg of your journey.  Ask your self the following questions to help you determine if it is time to walk. 

1. Are you passionate about where you are trying to go? 
2. Are you disciplined enough to do what it takes to get there? 
3. Are you prepared for the benefits that come with success?

If you answered yes to all three questions, step off the sidewalk and cross the street that is standing between you and your ultimate destination.  Leave a comment and share your upcoming or recent crosswalk moments.