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Happy New Year! Another year has flown by, revealing a lot of growth and experience. I want to express my gratitude to all of you who have been a source of inspiration and support throughout this past year. Your responses and encouragement have meant a lot to me. As I sit on my patio, I am struck by the beauty of the weather and the hypnotic sight of flames dancing in the fire pit. Moments like these remind me of how blessed I am with emotional, spiritual, and physical health (my three-legged stool). I am thankful for the blessings in my life and the privilege of being with each of you. Reflecting on these changes, my journey towards emotional maturity has been the most significant transformation. It took me a while to acknowledge my emotions, and I made my fair share of mistakes. A few of the most valuable lessons I learned are that I don’t know everything, I’m not always right, I only have control of myself, and I am difficult to control. [Blind Spots] As a lifelong student, I find joy in the richness of things yet to be learned. I have exciting plans for more specific training and learning to embrace the lessons life has in store for me. Stepping into this new year, I wish you peace, hope, grace, and abundant love. I pray that you’re equipped to face whatever the new year brings, and that God’s blessings are with you every step of the way. Love you guys!!

How have you made a difference in the lives of the ones around you? I love the movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” I watch it every Christmas even though I know the outcome. It is rich in life and relationships. It is about an angel sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman (Jimmy Stewart) by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. It is incomprehensible to know what that would look like for any of us, yet we have made a difference in so many lives. Our influence, both good and bad, has created outcomes that would not exist had we not been born. The impact we make on the lives of those who love us is an intricate connection created by our actions, words, and very presence. Consider the subtle yet profound differences that our existence brings to the lives of family, workmates, friends, and all those we encounter along life's journey. The absence of one individual can alter life in immeasurable ways both good and bad. Within the intimate circle of family, your faith, guidance, love, and support offered could have been the cornerstone for their emotional foundation. Among friends, coworkers, employees, school mates, or military acquaintances your encouragement, guidance, love, and support might have been the catalyst for someone's dreams, the anchor in their storms, or the laughter that lifted their spirits. Your presence might have brought about shared adventures and unforgettable moments that now define the memories of camaraderie. Your absence might have shifted the family's trajectory, altering the course of their stories in unforeseen ways. You matter and your existence has undoubtedly made a difference. Each smile shared, each hand extended, each decision made or not made—have all contributed to the unique experiences that define the lives of those who have crossed paths with you. It's an intricate tapestry impossible to unravel, but rest assured, your existence has left an indelible mark on the lives of many. How much more do you want to make a difference in the lives of others? You are in charge. Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Grab a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire.

It is almost here – the new year 2024. 2023 was a very short year for me. Today, as I look forward to the new year, I recognize I have much to do with my future. I can look at 2024 as a blank paper, or I can see it as a large sheet of paper filled with timelines, goals, dreams, wishes, and desires. How can I look at this large sheet filled with all my aspirations without recognizing there will be pitfalls, accidents, and circumstances beyond my control? While the allure of detailed planning and strategic outlines hold a certain appeal, the truth is that life often has a flair for the unexpected. As we have completed the prompts sheet from Monday’s post, setting out my intentions is the beginning of the design for the new year. It provides direction, purpose, and clarity within the unknown. Through intentions, I fill my actions with meaning, positioning myself with the paths I wish to follow. It’s about envisioning my desired future and taking deliberate steps toward it. Strategies act as my blueprints, allowing me to add projections to my future. They offer structure, thereby guiding my actions toward my intentions, and provide a roadmap, enabling me to navigate twists and turns along the journey. Life will not solely adhere to my drawing. Circumstances beyond my control will present surprises. It’s in these moments that adaptability and resilience become my greatest tools. The ability to pivot, embrace change, and find opportunities amidst these challenges will allow me to flourish in the face of unpredictability. So, the year will begin with a dance between intentions and circumstances. I will set sail with my intentions as my GPS, my strategies as the wind in my sails, and yet remain open to the currents and tides that may veer me off course. May this year be a year of strategies and intentions to have a better 2024 than 2023. I subscribe to Stephen Covey’s, “Begin with the end in mind.” How about you? How will your 2024 end? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire.

Well, here we are ending 2023. On Jan 2nd, my post had to do with what you planned to accomplish in 2023, to look ahead to December and write down what you wanted to accomplish and then put it in an envelope. My post Halfway Home, on June 30, was a reminder to keep going and check our progress. I know I was needing to catch up on a on a few things in my letter. You may not have even started. If you did, it’s time to open the envelope and read what you wrote at the beginning of the year. How did you do? Whether or not you did it, let us all begin now by engaging in reflection. Let's use the prompts in the download I created as a source of inspiration. Please print it out as a reminder of our strength and as a compass that guides us towards a purposeful and positive life as we enter 2024. As we have woven our tapestry of personal growth in 2023, reflecting on it will show us the beauty found in embracing each new day with an open heart and a motivated spirit. Jim Rohn says, "Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines practiced every day." Here's to the journey ahead—down life's highway of self-discovery and pursuing a life well-lived with unwavering determination. Watch for the blind spots and enjoy the process! Click to download Ending Well—2023 Journey Prompts print pdf. I appreciate your feedback, let me know how you did and please like or share. Start the New Year right, get your copy or gift a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire.

I often hear people express their apologies in many ineffective ways. Apologies hold immense power, yet not all “I'm sorry’s” evoke the experience of sincerity and genuine remorse. The many ways in which apologies are expressed reveal a range of intention and depth. How often do we encounter the standard "I'm sorry" empty of its true meaning? There's the apologetic tone, where the words convey regret but lack genuine sentiment. Then there's the sarcastic "I'm sorry," mixed with mockery or insincerity, and the flippant "I'm sorry" that brushes off the effects of actions. One of the most common apology erosion's is the "I'm sorry if what I did upset you." It's an apology that shifts responsibility, diminishing accountability by burdening the other person's reaction rather than owning the mistake. Even worse is the apology without remorse, merely lip service to navigate a situation without acknowledging the hurt it caused. Then there's the apology that isn't accompanied by tangible efforts for change, when words aren't backed up by actions to rectify the damage done. A genuine apology goes beyond words; it's a commitment not to inflict harm again. Words alone may fail to convey this commitment effectively. I like the phrase "If I could go back and do that again, I would do it differently." It's an acknowledgment of the mistake followed by a genuine reflection on what could have been done better. This approach prepares us for similar incidents that may occur in the future. It's about showing, not just telling. It’s an apology that signifies a deeper understanding and a pledge to change. Actions aligned with these words serve as a road map for growth, changing a hollow apology into a meaningful start toward reconciliation. The way we apologize carries immense weight. Beyond words, the intent, reflection, and subsequent actions truly define an apology's impact. How about you? Could you use this statement to reflect your apology, "If I could go back and do that again, I would do it differently?" Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback. Please like, share or comment.

Many years ago, we had a guest preacher. He was the father of a dear friend. He was so very approachable and authentic. I loved to greet him to hear what he had to offer. Every time I talked to him; he told me he was stoked. Stoked: being in an enthusiastic or exhilarated state. I love the concept of being stoked. It is a state of mind that fuels motivation and propels me toward success. When I'm stoked about something, a fire ignites within, sparking enthusiasm and a drive to achieve. It acts as a catalyst for action, setting the stage for fulfillment. The beauty of being stoked lies in its infectious energy. It's a magnetic force that draws others in, inspiring collaboration and igniting a shared passion for a common goal. When individuals are collectively stoked, their combined enthusiasm creates a synergy that propels them to surpass boundaries and achieve greatness. Stoked individuals are motivated by an inner fire that pushes them beyond limitations. This heightened enthusiasm is a powerful motivator, driving them to take risks, pursue innovative ideas, and persist in facing challenges. It fuels a mindset that embraces failure as a stepping stone toward success rather than a deterrent. When devoid of being stoked with excitement or passion, motivation wanes, and success often becomes elusive. A lack of enthusiasm can lead to procrastination, self-doubt, and a reluctance to take necessary risks. The benefits of being stoked extend beyond personal motivation. It creates a ripple effect, influencing those around me and fostering a culture of positivity, innovation, and achievement. It's the catalyst for turning aspirations into reality and dreams into tangible successes. The absence of being stoked hinders collaboration and teamwork. Inspiring others or rallying around a vision can be difficult without the contagious energy that comes from being stoked. It’s the difference between simply existing and thriving. It's the catalyst that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary achievements. How about you? Are you existing or thriving? I choose stoked. Watch for the blind spots. I sure appreciate you spending your valuable time with me. Thanks for sharing, commenting and liking these posts. Christmas is coming! Get a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships**, it’s a great stocking stuffer or ebook. Get a conversation started this holiday season. **Also, if you purchased your book on any of the online bookstores would you rate and write a review, especially Amazon. I certainly am grateful for all the ones out there and appreciate you all so much.

I have often compared myself to others only to come up short. I remember, early in my life, comparing what I had and how I dressed to others around me. I noticed others were more intellectual and made school look easy. I remember who had more courage than I did. I remember who could outrun me and who could intimidate me. These may be terrible memories, but they are the memories that shaped my life. As time passes, I find it difficult not to think in the same way. Yet I am recognizing God has created me uniquely. I am created differently. Measuring myself against others is cultural and inevitable unless I change my thinking. The true essence of growth and progress lies not in external benchmarks but in the internal journey of self-comparison. Comparing myself to others often leads to a rollercoaster of emotions, such as envy or inadequacy. It's a game where the rules are set by someone else's life, where I'll always find someone smarter, more prosperous, or more successful. However, the pursuit of comparing myself to past versions of myself has a distinct advantage—a journey tailored to my personal growth. When I compare myself to past versions of me, I am aligning my progress against the one benchmark that truly matters: my potential. This internal evaluation becomes a compass guiding me toward my goals, highlighting my strides, and revealing the areas that need nurturing. Self-comparison is not about becoming flawless; it's about becoming better than I was yesterday. Each step forward, however small, becomes a victory in my personal story. When I celebrate these incremental wins, I cultivate a mindset centered on self-improvement rather than validation from external sources. Instead of berating myself for not being at someone else's level, I acknowledge my unique journey and embrace it with kindness and understanding. Comparing myself to past versions of me challenges me to become better every day. This comparison is liberating and enables me to define success by pursuing growth and personal fulfillment. How about you? To whom do you compare yourself? Watch for the blind spots. I sure appreciate you spending your valuable time with me. Thanks for sharing, commenting and liking these posts. Christmas is coming! Get a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships, it’s a great stocking stuffer or ebook. Get a conversation started this holiday season. Also, if you purchased your book on any of the online bookstores would you rate and write a review, especially Amazon. I certainly am grateful for all the ones out there and appreciate you all so much.

Grit is the cornerstone of success in both professional and personal pursuits. Grit is that steadfast resilience and unwavering perseverance. In the workplace, grit is the invisible force driving individuals toward their goals, regardless of setbacks or challenges. Similarly, in personal life, it becomes the guiding principle that propels one forward, even when faced with adversities. Years ago, I observed two young men who were equally talented and skilled. Ralph was armed with grit, while Ed was lacking in this attribute. Both were on their respective journeys down life's highway. The difference in their paths became evident as they passed through the challenges of work and personal life. Ralph, equipped with grit, approached his work with unwavering determination. When faced with setbacks or hurdles, he didn't falter. Instead, Ralph saw them as opportunities to learn and grow. He remained persistent, tirelessly refining his strategies, and pushed forward. This perseverance propelled him to overcome obstacles, achieve his goals, and earn professional respect. His resilience allowed him to weather storms, tackle difficulties, and maintain healthy relationships in his personal life. His grit guided him through tough times toward personal fulfillment. Ed lacked grit and struggled in both his career and personal life. Although he possessed talent and intelligence at work, he quickly became discouraged when challenged. Setbacks caused him to lose sight of his goals. He gave up quickly, lacking the resilience to bounce back from failures. This hampered his progress and prevented him from reaching his full potential. In his personal life, this lack of perseverance manifested through struggles in maintaining relationships and pursuing personal goals. The contrast between Ralph and Ed emphasizes the pivotal role that grit plays in shaping outcomes. While talent and intelligence lay a foundation, grit determines how far one goes. Armed with grit, we can excel in our professional endeavors and maintain a balanced approach to personal challenges. On the other hand, the individual lacking in grit might need help to make significant strides in both. Grit permeates every aspect of life. It drives success, enabling individuals to persevere, adapt, and thrive professionally and personally amidst adversities. Have you ever evaluated your level of grit? Watch for the blind spots. I sure appreciate you spending your valuable time with me. Thanks for sharing, commenting and liking these posts. Christmas is coming! Get a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships, it’s a great stocking stuffer or ebook. Get a conversation started this holiday season. Also, if you purchased your book on any of the online bookstores would you rate and write a review, especially Amazon. I certainly am grateful for all the ones out there and appreciate you all so much.

My Toastmasters Club (Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Toastmasters) has a theme for each meeting. Last week, the theme for the day was "Progress, not perfection." I love this approach to life. It reminds me of my many years of struggle with perfection. Shame was the monster that pulled me back in life. The thought of being perfect would mean no one could spot my blemishes, so that perfection would disallow any feelings of shame. Nice try, Jerry. [Blind Spot] The illusion of perfection was an alluring trap that enticed me into its grasp with promises of flawlessness and unattainable standards. This pursuit sent me into frustration, anxiety, and a relentless cycle of self-criticism. Instead of embracing progress, I fixated on perfection, setting myself up for disappointment. Perfection becomes the unclimbable mountain that continues to move away as I inch forward. Perfectionism is a mirage that closes my eyes to the beauty of small positive steps toward progress. When focusing solely on achieving perfection, I overlook the invaluable lessons along life's journey that come from making and learning from mistakes. Pursuing perfection is like standing at the starting line, endlessly checking my gear while the race has already begun. Conversely, progress is about stepping forward, learning from mistakes, and adjusting along the way. It's a continuous improvement process, embracing imperfections as part of the journey rather than seeing them as failures. Failure isn't the endpoint; it's a steppingstone toward progress. The pressure to be perfect can lead to stress, burnout, and a constant feeling of inadequacy. In contrast, focusing on progress allows me to celebrate small victories, appreciate the journey, and maintain a healthier perspective on my goals. By taking steps toward progress, I become open to growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. Today, I trade the pursuit of perfection for the embrace of progress, knowing that each small step forward brings me closer to my aspirations. Operating from my free spirit permits me to welcome my mistakes as I learn from them. How about you? Does perfection cloud your journey forward? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please comment, like and share. Christmas is coming! Get a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships, it’s a great stocking stuffer or ebook. Get a conversation started this holiday season. Also, if you purchased your book on any of the online bookstores would you rate and write a review, especially Amazon. I certainly am grateful for all the ones out there and appreciate you all so much.

In the early 90's, our church moved into our new sanctuary. A small church near us had burned and the members did not want to rebuild, so they joined our church. That is where I met my late friend JD. I have written about him before in Do I have to. Our church started a mixed slow-pitch baseball team. The team was terrible. JD was our pitcher because he couldn't run very fast or throw very far, but he was one of our better players. Our team wasn't in contention to win the league championship, but we had a great time. JD was an unconventional man. He always wore a tie to church, and it revealed what he had for breakfast. Eggs, jelly, honey, and sometimes untraceable spots decorated his tie. He was very outgoing and would joyfully walk around the sanctuary before service began, introducing himself and welcoming people. One Sunday, I was at the back of the sanctuary, talking and laughing with my friend Bert. The conversation became somber as Bert asked, "I wonder why God put JD in my life." Oh my! What a riveting question. My laughter stopped, and I began to have all kinds of emotions. I was simultaneously embarrassed, humbled, shocked, and shamed. [Blind Spot] "Why did God put him in my life?" What a great question. This was one of those life changing moments. It was an awakening to my immature, judgmental behavior. I had to acknowledge my 'holier than thou attitude." What a less-than-honorable character I become when I don't ask this question. When I compare or condemn others, I think of that Sunday morning all the time. It is an easy pit to fall into, yet totally against who I want to present. How about you? Have you ever asked, "Why did God put this person in my life?" It can be life changing. Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share and comment. Christmas is upon us! Get a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships and get a conversation started this holiday season. It's the perfect stocking stuffer or ebook.

Oh, the holiday season is here! It is synonymous with family, joy, and festivities, yet the tasks of maintaining a clean home, preparing meals, and wrapping presents can lead to overwhelm and feelings of stress. [Blind Spots] can overshadow the peace, joy and happiness meant for this time. It's likely that you've already heard the advice "Don't stress" countless times, and it's easier said than done, right?! I want to emphasize that this is a wake-up call for me. I also wanted to share some tips to help us navigate this holiday season together. It's important to acknowledge that moments of stress and negativity are bound to happen. Let’s make this a stress less holiday, watch for the blind spots. Yo! Download the Navigate the Blind Spots this Holiday Season printable page and begin your stress less journey. Christmas is upon us! Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships and get a conversation started this holiday season: https://tinyurl.com/4w22ccut #blindspots #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #betterme #saturdayvibes #saturday #christmastime #holiday #holidaystress #holidaystressrelief #familylife #mindsetiseverything #toastmasters #stressfree #StressFreeHolidays #businesscoaching #successcoach #dailyinspiration

I often look for ways to help families bond and find richness within. Family history usually fades away, and so do the memories. Maybe not in all families, but I notice that children and even adult children are unaware of the lives their parents experienced. What was it like growing up, attending school, playing sports, getting disappointed, and other vital life issues? I was talking to a mom of three adult children. She had spent an afternoon with them, sharing memories of her childhood. She said the afternoon began by sharing events that she had never shared with them. She talked about how powerful their connections became as she delved into her past. She told me there was nothing profound or wrong about her life, yet they were fascinated to discover who she was and what her young life was all about. As I listened to her share, it became apparent how sharing her personal stories opened the doors for deeper connections. In these shared moments, we unveil our vulnerabilities, joys, and struggles, inviting others to understand us deeper. I like using old photos and videos to jog the memory of past events and special times that sometimes fade. I have enjoyed my trips down memory lane with old photos and would like to have more. Old photos and videos become more than mere pictures. They are nostalgic images containing cherished memories. Recalling memories together creates a unique intimacy. Whether recounting childhood adventures or reliving significant milestones, these shared stories connect our hearts. As we listen to someone's recollections, we step into their shoes, seeing the world through their lens. By disclosing these experiences, we unearth the gems of joy, finding comfort in the shared laughter and hardships. These experiences become supporting pillars, nurturing relationships through understanding, compassion and deepening the sense of belonging and togetherness. How about you? Have you taken the ones you love down memory lane? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Christmas is coming! Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #blindspots #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #betterme #MemoryLane #reminiscing #nostalgia #oldpictures #vintagephotography #memorykeeping #memorablemoments #counseling #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #communication #mindsetiseverything #toastmasters #businesscoaching #successcoach #dailyinspiration