Encouragementology

Rising Above Self-Doubt: Transforming Shame into Embracing Confidence

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are striving for a different vantage point as we rise above self-doubt, transforming shame into embracing confidence. According to a YouGov survey in 2018, about 50% of people reported experiencing self-doubt in their daily lives. That’s a whole lot of insecurity. Is that what you see plastered all over social media…vulnerability? Just another clue that what you see on the surface may not indicate what is really going on under the water. Add in that shame reinforces self-doubt and self-doubt increases shame and you have a tangled web to unwind. 

Self-doubt can create real challenges, both personally and professionally. It makes you doubt your abilities and holds you back from growing and achieving your full potential. At work, it stops you from taking on new projects or going for that promotion because you're convinced you're not good enough. This constant second-guessing can lead to major stress, anxiety, and even depression, making life a lot harder than it needs to be. It can also interrupt your relationships, as you struggle to trust others and communicate effectively. In the end, self-doubt becomes a vicious cycle that keeps you from living your best life.

I seek strength, not to be greater than others, but to fight my greatest enemy, the doubts within myself.

Can you pinpoint when self-doubt crept in and wrecked your confidence? Shame might be easier to identify since it’s typically linked to specific events that you regret but doubt can be a silent thief. Robbing you of possibilities and opportunities you didn’t have the confidence to go for.

Just like the settlers did when they claimed new territory, let’s put a flag in and start building a solid foundation of confidence as we eradicate shame and doubt! 

Let’s hear her Hack for Self-Doubt - Brene Brown

Dr. Jeremy Sutton gives us more on the Shame Resilience Theory: Advice From Brené Brown found at positivepsychology.com

Kendra Cherry sheds some more light on How to Forgive Yourself found at Very Well Mind

At the Triving Center of Psych, I found Understanding Impostor Syndrome: Breaking Free From Self-Doubt

Self-doubt often begins with a combination of internal and external factors. So here are some common sources - see if you’re holding on tightly to any of these:

1. Early Experiences: Negative experiences or criticisms during childhood, such as overly critical parents or teachers, can plant seeds of self-doubt.
2. Comparisons: Comparing oneself to others, especially in the age of social media, can lead to feelings of inadequacy and doubt about one's abilities or worth.
3. Perfectionism: Holding oneself to impossibly high standards and fearing failure can create a constant sense of not being good enough.
4. Failures and Setbacks: Experiencing failures or setbacks can undermine confidence, making one question their competence and abilities.
5. Negative Self-Talk: Internalizing negative thoughts and beliefs about oneself can perpetuate a cycle of doubt and low self-esteem.
6. Unrealistic Expectations: Setting unrealistic goals or expectations can lead to a sense of failure when they are not met, fostering self-doubt.
7. Lack of Support: Without a supportive network of friends, family, or mentors, individuals might struggle to maintain confidence in their abilities and decisions.
8. Trauma or Stress: Traumatic experiences or chronic stress can erode self-confidence and lead to persistent self-doubt.

CHALLENGE: Embrace your journey of self-discovery, for in overcoming self-doubt, you unlock the door to limitless potential. Let every stumble be a stepping stone, and every moment of doubt a reminder of your inner strength. Rise above shame because true empowerment is in believing in yourself, fiercely and unapologetically

 

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Disconnected: Why Communication Still Fails in a Hyper-Connected World

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are exploring a puzzling problem; why does communication still fail in a hyper-connected world? Even though the workplace has more modes of communication than ever before, 86% of employees and executives cite the lack of effective collaboration and communication as the main cause of workplace failures. Are we trading convenience for connection and clear communication? If you frequently feel overwhelmed and misunderstood have you ever stepped back and asked, “How much can my brain safely and accurately compute?” The average office worker receives about 121 emails per day and sends out 40 work-related emails daily, contributing to communication overload and potential miscommunication. Studies suggest that people misinterpret the tone and intent of emails and texts about 50% of the time, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.  Over 70% of employees report feeling overwhelmed with the amount of information they receive at work, leading to decreased productivity and communication breakdowns. 

It doesn’t take long for me to become distracted. I envision an octopus with eight arms all preforming tasks at the same time and in the center of it all, the googley eyes are spinning and steam is coming from it’s head. Picture it, you're watching a program>while reading the subtitles>you get a text> that asks you to jump on social media to check out a post or video>someone asks you a question>your phone rings>it’s your mother and she can’t understand her banking app>you open a web browser to see why she’s stuck……I literally could go on and on.  Does all this convenience and distracting multi-tasking come at a cost? 

Would you be able to go “old school.” 

A study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that frequent digital media use involving social media, gaming, texting, and streaming movies, music, or TV increases one's risk of developing ADHD symptoms by nearly 10 percent. Put a pin in that and we’ll come back to it. 

Over at Preply, Matt Zajechowski shines a line on a Study showing Americans are becoming less effective communicators

At Recuiter.com I found more information on The Negative Impact That Growing Up Digital Has Had on Communication

At HelpGuide.org I found Effective Communication -Improving Your Interpersonal Skills

Have you ever heard of the snowball effect? The term refers to how small issues can escalate and accumulate leading to larger problems and potentially significant consequences. Now let’s start a lack of communication or miscommunication snowball down the hill. Here's how it typically unfolds:

1. Misunderstandings: Initially, there might be a small misunderstanding or misinterpretation of a message, which is not addressed or clarified.
2. Assumptions and Errors: Without clarification, people may start making assumptions or errors based on the initial misunderstanding, leading to further confusion.
3. Missed Opportunities: As misunderstandings grow, opportunities for collaboration, innovation, or problem-solving may be missed, affecting productivity and efficiency.
4. Conflict: Unresolved misunderstandings can lead to conflicts, as people become frustrated or feel ignored, further hindering effective communication.
5. Distrust and Resentment: Persistent communication breakdowns can erode trust and breed resentment among team members, damaging relationships and morale.
6. Impact on Performance: Ultimately, the snowball effect can impact overall performance, leading to decreased productivity, lower quality work, and potentially even business losses.

CHALLENGE: Clear communication is crucial for effective collaboration and understanding in both personal and professional settings, fostering stronger relationships and minimizing misunderstandings. Convey your ideas accurately, ensuring everyone is on the same page to drive successful outcomes.

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Mindfulness Momentum: Beyond the Mantra

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are going beyond the mantra to gain some insight and mindfulness momentum. Played out? Is the request to be more mindful met with eye-rolling and heavy sighs? Well there has to be something to it don’t you think? Mindfulness has become popular because studies have showcased its benefits throughout the years, and past research shows it is often effective in reducing distressing symptoms from various mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression. And I think we can all agree that taking a meaningful time-out from a chaotic day, month, or year can only be a good thing. But let’s not just screenprint it on a t-shirt or embellish a throw pillow, let's take some time and really dive in to see what all the fuss is. 

What do your moments of mental rest look like? Do you unplug only to plug into something different and maybe more entertaining? I used to move my eyes from my computer only to pick up my phone and jump right back in. Sure it felt like a diversion and something different but before I knew it, I was sucked into streams, posts, pics, and reels. Once I came up for air I wasn’t any less stressed and possibly more burdened. 

I love Spring and Fall. I love a windy day, a bright sun, and sometimes a good rain shower. I love observing nature from blowing leaves to crashing waves. There is something so powerful about nature, raw, vivid, and yes, calming. Have you ever just sat and observed? No distractions but what’s unfolding before you. Inhale deeply and open your mind. Let thoughts enter your mind. Like a cube suspended in air, turn that thought and examine it from all the different sides and angles. 

Mindfulness is awareness of one's internal states and surroundings. Mindfulness can help people avoid destructive or automatic habits and responses by learning to observe their thoughts, emotions, and other present-moment experiences without judging or reacting to them.

At Better Help I found What Is Mindfulness, And Why Has It Become So Popular?

At Mindful Ambition, Patrick Buggy shares The Power of Perception: Change Your Narrative, Change Your Life

At Better Up, Elizabeth Perry helps us focus on the Here and now: Discover the benefits of being present

Remember, mindfulness is not just for meditation so while you’re thinking about deep breathing and sitting cross-legged consider that mindfulness can be integrated into various activities and aspects of daily life, such as:

1. Mindful Walking: Paying close attention to each step, the sensations of walking, and the environment around you.
2. Mindful Eating: Eating slowly and paying attention to the taste, texture, and experience of eating without distractions.
3. Mindful Breathing: Taking deep, intentional breaths and focusing on the sensation of breathing to anchor yourself in the present moment.
4. Mindful Listening: Fully focusing on what someone is saying without thinking about your response or other distractions.
5. Mindful Body Scan: Bringing awareness to different parts of your body, noticing any sensations or tensions without trying to change them.
6. Mindful Activities: Engaging fully in activities like yoga, gardening, or even washing dishes by being fully present in the moment.

CHALLENGE: Incorporating mindfulness into your daily life can transform your experience, bringing clarity, peace, and a deeper connection to the present moment. By taking small, mindful actions each day, you can cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life.

 

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Convenience vs. Connection: Finding Balance

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are weighing the convenience vs the connection to find an optimal balance. Sacrificing one seems like taking a step back in time but limiting the other is detrimental to your health. People need people….I could break out into song here but just trust me. A more recent review of 148 studies concluded that on average having stronger social ties increased the likelihood of an individual's overall survival by as much as 50 percent! You might be a self-proclaimed loner or someone who would rather observe life from afar but the fact is, we need people for emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging. Relationships with others provide comfort during challenging times, joy during celebrations, and a feeling of connection that enriches life. Additionally, interactions with others offer opportunities for personal growth, learning, and the development of empathy and understanding. 

Modern times have really changed the way we interact with others both personally and professionally but has the convenience come at a cost? I say yes, but now I have to convince you. I’m not suggesting we go back to the turn of the century and remove all technology from our houses but I am hoping that you will strive for a healthy balance once you fully understand the pros and cons. Deal?

Gareth Cook answers Why We Are Wired to Connect at scientificamerican.com

Alarming Statistics from From Pew Research…

Adrianna Rodriguez from USA Today discusses how Americans are lonely and it’s killing them.

At bigthink.com I found out why Americans more than ever have no friends. Here are 5 steps to make more friends

1. Plan Social Activities: Organize gatherings, events, or outings that encourage face-to-face interaction. This could include dinners, game nights, or outdoor activities.
2. Join Clubs or Groups: Join clubs, classes, or groups based on your interests. This provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and engage in shared activities.
3. Attend Local Events: Attend community events, festivals, or workshops to meet new people and engage in conversations.
4. Limit Screen Time: Reduce the amount of time spent on digital devices, which can free up more time for in-person interactions.
5. Prioritize Face-to-Face Communication: When possible, choose face-to-face communication over digital methods like texting or emailing.
6. Be Present: When interacting with others in person, be fully present and engaged in the conversation. Put away distractions like phones or laptops.
7. Seek Out New Experiences: Try new activities or hobbies that involve interacting with others, such as joining a sports team or volunteering.

CHALLENGE: Don’t take the easy way out and live your life on the periphery. Step up, reach out, and nurture human connection. It’s the fastest declining commodity. Take the time and invest to reap the greatest rewards life has to offer.

 

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Redefining Denial: It's Not Complicated, It's Just Hard

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are redefining denial to determine if it’s complicated or just hard. Raise your hand if you’ve gotten stuck in a procrastination loop because to change, let go, and adopt a new behavior is just hard. So hard it feels impossible!  Life doesn’t have to be complicated to be hard. And reducing your options to go or don’t go doesn’t limit your possibilities. Varying degrees and options can sometimes provide too many hiding places for procrastination and denial. Let’s lay it all out in the open and be honest with ourselves, what is preventing you from moving forward? Whether it’s to obtain new skills, build stronger relationships, better your situation, or just open yourself up to what life has in store for you. 

You know how sometimes it feels like putting things off or pretending a problem isn't there is just easier? It's because facing a challenge head-on can be scary or uncomfortable. Procrastination gives us a break from the stress or discomfort, even though it often makes things more stressful later on. Denial is similar—it lets us avoid admitting hard truths about ourselves or our situations, which can protect our egos. In the short term, both procrastination and denial can help us deal with tough emotions or situations, but in the long run, they can hold us back from growing and being truly well.

Maybe it’s that talk you need to have, or that habit you need to address, or that chore you need to do….none of it sounds fun, it just sounds hard. So you know what they say, out of sight out of mind. Push it back until we “feel” like doing it. Newsflash, it’s hard so you will never feel like doing it. Is it important, is it good for you, is it good for the other person (if there is one) then get out of your own way and stop self-sabotaging progress! 

“Whatever you want to do, do it now. There are only so many tomorrows.” — Michael Landon

I love reading about history, even historical fiction. The time is accurate even if the characters are fictitious. I love looking back in time because it reminds me of how far we have come. For instance, if my microwave goes out and I have to warm something the old-fashioned way …well then, I like to remember a simpler time when they first had to make a fire by hand to even start their day. You get my gist. 

​​Sourena Vasseghi asks IS IT HARD OR IS IT CHALLENGING on his blog

Kaitlin Vogel provides some strategies as she asks Feeling Stuck? How to Remove Those Roadblocks on Psych Central

Heidi Godman shares more on Denial: How it hurts, how it helps, and how to cope found on Harvard Health

When life feels particularly challenging, it can be tough to navigate through the difficulties. Here are some strategies to help you get over the hump:

1. Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for emotional support. Talking about your feelings can help you feel less alone.
2. Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Get enough sleep, eat healthily, exercise, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
3. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: If you're feeling overwhelmed, break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time.
4. Set Realistic Expectations: Be gentle with yourself and set realistic expectations. It's okay to not be perfect or to need help.
5. Focus on What You Can Control: Identify aspects of the situation that you can control and focus your energy there. Let go of things that are beyond your control.
6. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: These practices can help you stay present and reduce stress and anxiety.
7. Find Meaning: Reflect on the situation and try to find meaning or lessons that can be learned from it. This can help you see the situation in a more positive light.
8. Engage in Activities That Bring You Comfort: Whether it's reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature, engaging in activities that bring you comfort can help you cope with difficult times.
9. Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling to cope, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with tools and strategies to better manage your emotions and stress.
10. Stay Connected: Stay connected with others, even if it's just a brief phone call or text. Social support can be incredibly valuable during tough times.

Remember, it's okay to ask for help when you need it. You don't have to go through difficult times alone.

CHALLENGE: Put things in perspective, is it complicated or just hard? Finding a balance between negative and positive thinking involves recognizing and challenging extreme thoughts, considering alternative perspectives, and acknowledging both the challenges and the strengths in any situation. It’s time to take action!

 

I Know YOU Can Do It!

The Encouragement Effect: Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are digging into the effects of encouragement on building confidence and self-esteem. The definition: the action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope. Heartwarming huh? Seems like a simple and uplifting definition but so much to unpack here and explore. We focus so much attention on motivation as the key to driving results, staying on task, and completing a mission but how does encouragement factor in? 

It's kind of like the chicken and the egg – which comes first, motivation or encouragement? Well, in real life, encouragement often kicks things off. When you're feeling unsure or lacking confidence, a little encouragement can go a long way. It helps you believe that you can actually do something, which then gets you motivated to give it a shot.

But hey, sometimes motivation comes first. You might already be pumped up about a goal, and then a bit of encouragement helps you stay on track or get past roadblocks.

It’s all about perception and meeting someone where they are. Sometimes encouragement leads the charge and other times, motivation is already there, just waiting for a little boost from some positive vibes.

I hope you find this as fascinating as I have for the last seven years. There will be something in here for you, meeting you where you are and something you can pass on, to meet someone else along their journey.

Michael Kouly gives us a breakdown and his take on The Power of Encouragement found on LinkedIn

Let’s explore this idea of encouragement as a practice. Joel Nundy shares The Power of Encouragement | How to Live an Encouraging Lifestyle on his youtube channel

Danielle Bernock shares 5 WAYS ENCOURAGEMENT IS POWERFUL found on her blog

At Start My Wellness, Dr, Anton Babushkin shares the difference: How Does Self-Esteem Differ From Self-Confidence?

CHALLENGE: Encouragement is a transformative tool, fostering confidence, resilience, growth, and stronger relationships while improving performance and mental health. So don't hold back, offer words of encouragement, and watch the magic unfold as you create a ripple effect of positivity in the world.

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Forgive to Flourish: Embracing Healing and Growth

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…our goal is to find forgiveness so that we may flourish, embracing healing and growth. We’ve all heard it before, holding onto a grudge hurts you more than the other person. Anger begets more anger, and forgiveness and love lead to more forgiveness and love. But forgiving, even ourselves, is no easy business. The seeds of hurt run deep and many make the act of forgiveness but never truly let go and move forward. Fortunately, there is a path and a roadmap to freedom. Start by acknowledging the hurt and your feelings about it. Then, try to understand the perspective of the person who hurt you or your capabilities and accountability. The next step is a decision, decide to forgive, letting go of resentment, and the desire for revenge. When you see the clearing, work on rebuilding trust and moving forward with a focus on healing and growth.

Pain is inevitable: suffering is optional.

Forgiveness is complex which is both frustrating and assuring. I say this because if taken lightly, we are leading lukewarm lives. With great love comes great sorrow. To be hurt deeply you have to feel deeply so in this it is both a blessing and a curse. 

I hold no grudges. I can seriously say that. It might be purely selfish but it takes too much energy and focus to hold onto anger. Oh sure, I’ve been wronged, at least it felt that way but then what… If you can’t get the satisfaction of an authentic apology and penance then how do you move forward? You just do because without a satisfactory resolution, it’s a choice to move on without it. It’s important to understand that people are just people, flawed, imperfect, hopefully evolving and growing at their own rate. Not everyone is going to be on your page, respond as you respond, and do as you do. If you didn’t already know that, let me reiterate, move on! Waiting around for this type of utopia is a worthless vigil. 

"Passion and a zest for life are not defined by extremes; even in moments of lukewarm feelings, choose to be slow to anger and quick to forgive, embracing a balanced and compassionate approach to living."

Dr. Tyler J. VanderWeele shares The Power of Forgiveness found at psychologytoday.com

Douglas A. Smith, author of the best-selling book – Happiness: The Art of Living with Peace, Confidence and Joy teaches Mastering the Skills of Forgiveness on his blog.

Roger Gabriel walks us through 13 Steps That Lead to Forgiveness found at chopra.com

1. Acknowledge the mistake: Recognize and accept that you made a mistake or hurt yourself or others.
2. Feel the emotions: Allow yourself to feel any guilt, shame, or regret that may arise from the mistake.
3. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and that you are worthy of forgiveness.
4. Reflect and learn: Reflect on the mistake and consider what you can learn from it to avoid repeating it in the future.
5. Apologize if necessary: If your mistake hurt others, consider apologizing and making amends to those affected.
6. Let go of perfectionism: Accept that you are human and that making mistakes is a natural part of life.
7. Focus on the present: Instead of dwelling on the past, focus on the present moment and how you can move forward in a positive way.
8. Seek support: Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your feelings and experiences to gain perspective and support.

Forgiving yourself can be a challenging process, but it is an important step toward healing and moving forward in a positive way.

CHALLENGE: Forgiveness is a transformative act that can profoundly impact your well-being. By releasing resentment and anger, you free yourself from emotional burdens, leading to increased mental clarity and peace. Embrace forgiveness to cultivate healthier relationships, promote inner healing, and pave the way for a more fulfilling life.

I Know YOU Can Do It!

 

Connecting: Building Strong Social Bridges

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are exploring the importance of connecting and building strong social bridges. No matter where you think you are with your current circles, there is always room to grow, strengthen, and nurture. You may think you’re a loner but we all need someone who has our back, cares what happens to us, and encourages us along our journey. A strong social bridge refers to a meaningful and supportive connection between individuals. It is characterized by trust, mutual respect, and open communication. Strong social bridges provide a sense of belonging, emotional support, and a network of people who can help each other navigate life's challenges. These connections are essential for building a supportive community and promoting overall well-being. When was the last time you looked to your corner for support? It may be time for a little inventory, who’s there for you and who are you there for? 

Our World in Data bases the following statistics on if you have a conversation with three new people every single day of your life.

If you can keep this up for 73 years, you will get to know 80,000 people. That’s more than a hundred times the number of people you’d know by name.

This is still a tiny fraction of the world. After a lifetime of speaking with people, you will have spoken to 0.001% of the world’s population. For every person you’ve had a conversation with, there are still 100,000 people you’ve never spoken to.

Even if you don’t have the opportunity to meet three new people every day, that’s a lot of people you will encounter in your lifetime. How do you categorize those relationships? Introductions, acquaintances, friends, best friends, family? What prompts a greater investment of your time, attention, and emotion?

I’m going to let you think about that as we explore an 85-year Harvard study about what makes us happy, found at cnbc.com

Maggie Wooll offers how to Make the connection: 10 effective ways to connect with people found at betterup.com

Brian Frohn reminds us to Give What You Want to Get: Enhancing Relationships through Generosity found on LinkedIn

Before we go…let’s bring it full circle with Why Social Connections Matter to Your Health found on the Texas A&M youtube page

Being connected with others offers a wide range of social benefits, including:

1. Emotional Support: Social connections provide a source of emotional support during difficult times, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
2. Increased Happiness: Interacting with others can boost mood and overall happiness, leading to a more positive outlook on life.
3. Reduced Stress: Strong social connections can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health.
4. Improved Self-Esteem: Positive social interactions can enhance self-esteem and feelings of self-worth.
5. Enhanced Resilience: Social support can enhance resilience, helping individuals cope with challenges and bounce back from adversity.
6. Better Physical Health: Research suggests that strong social connections are associated with better physical health outcomes, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
7. Longer Life Span: Studies have shown that people with strong social ties tend to live longer than those who are more isolated.
8. Sense of Belonging: Social connections provide a sense of belonging and community, which can lead to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment.

CHALLENGE: Building strong connections is vital for your well-being, as they provide a support system during challenging times, boost your happiness, and enhance your overall mental health. Be intentional and make connections that reduce stress, increase your sense of belonging, and contribute to a longer, more fulfilling life.

 

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Empowering Thoughts: The Impact of Your Mindset on Hope and the Future

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are exploring the impact your mindset has on hope and your future as we lean into producing empowering thoughts. It’s time to stop the hamster wheel of thinking for an important check-in. It’s no secret that our minds are incredibly active, even when we’re sleeping! According to cognitive neuroscientists, we are conscious of only about 5 percent of our cognitive activity, so most of our decisions, actions, emotions, and behavior depends on the 95 percent of brain activity that goes beyond our conscious awareness. It’s time to be intentional and grab a little more of the unconscious market share. We can move in the right direction by shifting our thinking patterns, interrupting negative self-talk, and being willing to embrace the unknown with possibility and hope. 

If you’re in a rut and think tomorrow holds no promise but to be a repeat of today, then it will. Henry Ford said, "If you think you can or if you think you can't, either way, you're right". So much of your attitude determines success or failure.

I remember leading a support group one night and a participant said, “you can’t just be happy, it doesn’t work that way.” I’m not sure whether that statement is right or wrong and I wasn’t insinuating that one could flip a switch but I was encouraging them to choose to move in that direction and in that…you have a choice. 

Understanding the power you possess to alter your thinking and shift your perception can lead to a future where you are the architect of your own success and fulfillment.

Dr. Dan J. Tomasulo shares the Thinking Habits of Highly Hopeful People found at psychologytoday.com

Maya Shrikant  shares The science of hope: More than wishful thinking found on the ASU website

Joan Ridsdel at The Family Center gives us 10 Common Negative Thinking Patterns and 5 Steps for Change

Changing your mindset to impact hope and your future involves several key shifts in thinking and behavior. Here are some ways you can do this:

1. Focus on the Positive: Train yourself to see the silver lining in every situation. Even in challenging times, there are lessons to be learned and opportunities for growth.
2. Practice Gratitude: Regularly take time to reflect on the things you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a sense of hope and abundance.
3. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small, to build momentum and keep hope alive.
4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Instead of seeing failure as a setback, view it as a stepping stone to success. Learn from your mistakes and use them to fuel your determination.
5. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. Their positivity can help reinforce your own hopeful outlook.
6. Visualize Your Future: Take time to envision the future you want for yourself. Visualizing your goals can help make them feel more attainable and keep you motivated.
7. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially in times of difficulty. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend facing a challenge.
8. Stay Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and plans may need to change. Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt your goals as circumstances evolve.
9. Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. Whether it's from friends, family, or a professional, having a support system can provide comfort and hope.

CHALLENGE: Your mindset shapes your outlook on life, influencing your sense of hope and belief in the future. Cultivating a positive mindset can fuel your determination and resilience, helping you overcome challenges with optimism.

I Know YOU Can Do It!

Purposeful Fusion: Aligning Passion with Impact

SHOW NOTES:

On this show…we are aligning our passion with impact to create a purposeful fusion. This idea may feel as impossible as seeing a unicorn or finding the funtain of youth. But remember, we are talking about your passion, not someone else's or some predetermined and assigned passion. But I get it.  Finding your purpose can be a real challenge. Society often pushes us toward more traditional paths, making it tough to explore what really lights us up inside. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's hard to find a moment to really dig deep and figure out what we're truly passionate about. And let's not forget about the fear factor – the worry of failing or being judged can stop us from taking those leaps of faith into the unknown. Plus, our interests and who we are can change so much over time, adding to the complexity. Finally, not having clear role models or guidance in certain areas can leave us feeling a bit lost.

The natural starting point here is to find out what you’re passionate about and for many of us, that could be the biggest challenge. If you’ve spent your life catering to others’ wants, needs, and desires then finding time to do your own deep dive may have been impossible. So for any good journey, let’s start at the beginning. 

What brings you joy? What lights your soul on fire? What gives you that feeling of fulfillment? What speaks to your heart? I’m not looking for an immediate answer here but these are all important questions to ponder, sit with, and explore. 

Ikigai is a Japanese concept that unites the joy of life with a sense of purpose. The term is a combination of the Japanese words 'iki' (to live) and 'gai' (reason), which together signify "a reason to live."

To guide us on this journey, we are going to explore the intersection of the four essential elements: 

• Your passion (what you love)
• Your vocation (what you're good at)
• Your mission (what the world needs)
• Your profession (what you can be paid for)

Over at betterup.com Maggie Wooll says The secret to finding your passion isn't looking, it's doing

Maggie Wooll to the rescue again with Wondering what you're good at? Here are 10 ways to figure it out found at Betterup.com

Dr. Alex Lickerman leads us with How To Find Your Mission found at Psychologytoday.com 

Margie Warrell shines a light with Your Purpose Lies at the Intersection of These 3 Things found at success.com

Aligning your passion with impact to create a purposeful fusion involves several key steps:

1. Identify Your Passion: Reflect on what activities, topics, or causes ignite a sense of joy and fulfillment in you. What could you spend hours doing without feeling bored or drained?
2. Assess the World's Needs: Consider the pressing issues, challenges, or gaps in society that resonate with you. What problems do you feel strongly about addressing or solving?
3. Find the Intersection: Look for areas where your passion and the world's needs intersect. This could involve brainstorming ideas, researching existing initiatives, or seeking inspiration from others who have successfully aligned their passions with impactful work.
4. Set Clear Goals: Define specific, measurable goals that reflect the impact you want to make. This could include targets related to community engagement, environmental sustainability, social justice, or other areas aligned with your passion and the world's needs.
5. Take Action: Start taking steps to turn your passion into meaningful action. This might involve volunteering, starting a project or initiative, or exploring career opportunities that align with your purpose.
6. Stay Flexible: Be open to adjusting your approach as you learn and grow. Your understanding of your passion and the world's needs may evolve over time, requiring you to adapt your plans accordingly.
7. Seek Support: Surround yourself with people who support your vision and can offer guidance, resources, and encouragement along the way. Collaborating with like-minded individuals or joining communities focused on purpose-driven work can also be beneficial.
8. Reflect and Refine: Regularly reflect on your progress and reassess how well you're aligning your passion with impact. Be willing to refine your approach based on what you learn and experience.

CHALLENGE: Start taking steps to turn your passion into meaningful action. Align your passion with impact to create a purposeful fusion that not only brings fulfillment to your life but also contributes positively to the world around you.

 

I Know YOU Can Do It!