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Empathy is a critical component of healthy and fulfilling relationships. It involves the ability to understand and share another person's feelings, which can help build trust, intimacy, and emotional connection. It is like being in their skin, thoroughly allowing and appreciating their experiences. We are so different and sometimes feel that everyone sees and processes experiences just as we do. [Blind Spot] Being in another's shoes is not enough. Empathy is not sympathy. Sympathy is the formal expression of pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune. In relationships, empathy can help partners feel seen, heard, and understood. When someone is going through a difficult time, expressing empathy can provide comfort and support, strengthening the bond between partners. Similarly, when someone is happy or excited, sharing their joy through empathetic listening and conversation can help them feel valued and appreciated. "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view, until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it." ~ Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird Empathy requires effort and attention. It involves actively listening and tuning in to body language and nonverbal cues. It bears repeating; empathy is putting oneself in another person's skin to understand their perspective. Sometimes, it can be difficult to empathize with a partner's emotions, especially if they are feeling upset or angry. In these situations, it's essential to remain calm, patient, and nonjudgmental to create a safe and supportive space for them to share their feelings. Using gently curious questions and not fixing them is also helpful. Overall, empathy is a vital component of healthy relationships. By cultivating empathy, partners create a more profound sense of emotional intimacy and connection, which help them navigate the challenges and joys of life together. Want to improve your relational connection? On an empathy scale of 1 to 10, give yourself a rating. Regardless of what rating you gave, what can you do to move the rating up just half a point? Healthy relationships take work. Are you coasting? Watch for the blind spots. Feel free to comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #empathy #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #empathymatters #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #mentalhealth #relationships #relationshiprevolution #russelltomlinson #relationshipcoach #therapy

Stress in relationships is a common phenomenon that can arise for various reasons. It can be caused by external factors such as financial issues, job-related stress, health problems, parenting disagreements, and many more. Stress can also be induced by internal factors such as communication breakdowns, misunderstandings, and differences in expectations or values. Robin and Ralph, my favorite couple, have been struggling with financial stress. Like many couples, this can get out of control quickly. They are both aware of it, but neither is talking about it. Whenever other issues arise, like problems with the children or work, both are very short-fused and quickly get into an argument. The source of the argument is their unresolved financial issue, but disagreements appear, masking the real problem. Because they cannot see the real source, stress permeates their thinking and behavior. [Blind Spot] This financial stress is harming them. As witnessed in their current struggles, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, frustration, and resentment resulting in a relationship breakdown if left unaddressed. They fear bringing it up will cause worse problems, so the finances go unaddressed. [Blind Spot] This is a classic situation where it's not what we say, it is what we don't say that causes relationship problems. It is a perfect time to tell each other what they think about this haunting issue. For some reason, this conversation is avoided. I'll let you guys apply their stories to your own lives. When issues go unresolved, we set our relationships up for degradation, if not failure. Talking is the key to reducing stress, and facing problems as a team rather than enemies can facilitate resolution. When managing stress in relationships, it is essential to identify the root cause and communicate openly and honestly with your partner. Ultimately, managing stress in relationships requires effort and commitment from both partners, as well as a willingness to communicate to find solutions and overcome challenges. How about you? Are there masked situations in your relationships that are causing stress and resentment? What is not being said that needs to be said? Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share, I appreciate your input. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about Myself #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #communication #communicationiskey #marriage #selfempowerment #fridayinspiration #changeyourmindset #changeyourlife #mindset #thinking #MindOfChrist #mindovermatter #empoweryourself #bayharbourumc #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #resetyourmind #Friday #fridayvibes #fridaymotivation #leadershipcoaching #buildabetteryou

[Anger or bitterness at having been treated unfairly.] Resentments in relationships are the accumulation of negative feelings you have toward your spouse, boss, employee, teammate, stepchild, stepparent, or others that stem from unresolved acts, deeds, conversations, or unmet needs. Without a resolution, these resentments accumulate and silently deteriorate the relationship, creating distance over time. Vulnerability ceases to exist due to trust being broken. I call resentments rust in relationships. Just as a fine piece of steel can be damaged if neglected and allowed to rust, so are resentments in relationships. As they arise, they begin to corrode closeness and understanding. It is a terrible blind spot to uncover because it feels so justified when someone is causing you emotional or physical pain. Like any adjective that describes a person, resentment is on a continuum from mild to chronic. A sad person can be a little sad or debilitated. An angry person can be slightly angry or enraged. Resentments can be large or small. Robin resents Ralph because he leaves his dishes in the sink or he will not stop texting the woman at work. The real problem happens when both parties in a relationship collect resentment toward the other. When one causes the other pain, it is easy to feel justified in becoming bitter and add to the resentment bag that we so smugly carry. Usually, resentments happen when someone's needs are conveyed, and they go unattended. After a few failures to get their point across, the attempt to get a resolution gets dropped from the conversation, but it gets added to the resentment bag. Resentments are created and resolved through communication. Failure to communicate resentments effectively is their source, and healthy conversation can reduce and even eliminate them. Here is an example of unhealthy communication. On the way home from a party, Robin and Ralph are silent. Both are telling themselves a story like this: Robin: "He did not speak to me tonight." Ralph: "I don't know what is happening with her, but I must steer clear." Here is an example of healthy communication. On the way home from a party, Robin and Ralph are silent. Robin begins to share "the story I'm telling myself" with Ralph: Robin: "I am hurt by your ignoring me tonight. I want something very different because it speaks to me that I no longer matter, and Ralph, that is not acceptable. I love you and care too much to be treated that way. I remember and long for how you used to treat me." Ralph: "Thanks for sharing that. I thought you were mad at me and I was giving you space. If I could do it again, I would have asked what you needed from me." When shared, "the story I'm telling myself" can be a powerful tool for preventing and resolving conflicts. When I share "the story I'm telling myself," it clears the air. Oh, what a difference it makes to clear the air, stop the assumptions, and operate from the facts. It is easy and even cultural to collect resentments, don't let rust take a foothold and begin corroding your relationships. Start with what stories you are telling yourself. Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share, I appreciate your input. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about Myself #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #energy #energyhealing #marriage #selfempowerment #fridayinspiration #changeyourmindset #changeyourlife #mindset #thinking #MindOfChrist #mindovermatter #resentment #empoweryourself #bayharbourumc #RussellTomlinson #relationshiprevolution #Friday #fridayvibes #fridaymotivation #leadershipcoaching #buildabetteryou

Robin and Ralph have been married for 15 years and notice they have gotten comfortable majoring on each other's minuses. It is easy to let the compliments and pursuits fall by the wayside as time together accumulates. It is excellent that they are looking at this now. Is it customary for us to catch people doing things right and well, either at home or away? When someone does something extraordinary, it's easy to compliment, do, or say something positive. We expect good behavior and actions from people. But when they are continually doing things right and well, it can become mundane and easy to miss, making the focus now on what they are doing wrong. Think about young children growing up. How much negativity do they hear or experience? Of course, children must be corrected and reminded of their well-being and safety. We work with them on correcting what is wrong and unhealthy. But I often wonder if I balance catching the wrong as well as catching them doing things right and well. We all need wins under our belt. I can especially be hard on myself and forget, "Do I catch myself doing things right, or am I my own worst critic? Do I celebrate my wins enough?" [Blind Spot] Spending so much time on the road, "Do I compliment drivers if I'm on the highway and they drive at the speed limit? Do I compliment them if I'm on the freeway and the slow traffic is in the right-hand lane? Do I compliment those who signal to change lanes and warn me of their intentions?" [Blind Spot] It goes without saying if I feel threatened on the roadway, I will do whatever it takes to escape harm. Those kinds of drivers are prevalent. I have noticed when I'm in a hurry or anxious about something, I am the most critical of others; this could be about their driving or mannerisms at home or in the office. [Blind Spot] When I am anxious, I don't see others do much of anything right, well, or worth complimenting. But it's interesting how I change and become much kinder and even more tolerant when things are going well, and I feel good about myself. [Blind Spot] How about you? Are you nervous Nelly, or anxious Andy? Are you looking for opportunities to catch people doing things right and well and compliment them? This is certainly something I can do more of; we all need to be caught doing things right and well. Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share, I appreciate your input. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about Myself #wednesday #wednesdaymotivation #wednesdaymood #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #relationships #relationshiprevolution #russelltomlinson #relationshipcoach #therapy #familyfirst #dothingsright #NetworkingDoneDifferent #relationships #businesscoaching #personaldevelopment

I had the opportunity to be a guest speaker on “Networking Done Different” with Sara Blumenfeld. It was a pleasure to share on “Blind Spots in Relationships” and we touched on many of the principles and concepts to identify and expose blind spots. You can watch the episode by clicking below or here: https://youtu.be/Q3ivRK5JBME "Networking Done Different” offers techniques, processes, and interviews to expand your business and your life. Sara Blumenfeld has been a personal development coach and teacher since 2005. Her philosophy is that everyone has greatness in them, and clearing away the patterns and clutter picked up along life’s path can allow that greatness to shine. She also helps businesses examine and shift perceptions and ways of approaching challenges in order to thrive. Feel free to comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #family #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #mentalhealth #relationships #relationshiprevolution #russelltomlinson #relationshipcoach #therapy #familyfirst #NetworkingDoneDifferent #relationships #businesscoaching #personaldevelopment

[The feedback definition in this scenario is to provide information regarding a person's reaction to their words or actions to improve the relationship.] Ralph and Robin are discussing replacing her car with a newer one. Ralph becomes agitated and explains his point of view with every comment Robin makes. She gets frustrated, and he continues to be right and combative while she tries to make her point during this 30-minute conversation. Frustrated, Robin drops the "feedback bomb," "You don't ever listen. You are a know-it-all." We know his next comment, "No, I'm not." Both feel justified and have valid points of view. Robin attempts to tell Ralph that he is challenging to talk to when discussing serious financial matters. Ralph feels attacked and becomes defensive. This locks up any opportunity to solve replacing her car and change to a different subject altogether. Now the conversation is about who is right. Ralph has missed an excellent opportunity for great feedback, and she feels restrained because she only wants him to understand her frustration. Rather than defending himself, he passed up an opportunity to be the hero of this story, despite his disagreement with her. His words—" You are right, Robin. I sometimes feel bad when we can't get the car you want." or "Can we start over or take a break and reconvene a little later?"—would have made it about him not blaming Robin. Robin's attempt to give feedback could have been better formulated and less critical. She could have said, "I get frustrated and don't know how to get my point across when our emotions escalate?" This makes the issue about her, not Ralph, and shows that she is considering her emotions rather than blaming them. Feedback is an opportunity for growth and connection. If it is said with angst, it will be met with angst. If it is said in a strategic and meaningful way, it can be heard in a manner that provides connection. To step back and become gently curious about her feedback would give both a chance for understanding. It's crucial to consider the outcome after offering feedback. Do I want to criticize and express my discontent, or do I want to present feedback that leads to connection and understanding? When I need to be defensive and attack, can I pause, get out of my emotional self, and look for ways to de-escalate the conversation? Healthy relationships require feedback, and it takes practice to master it. Whether giving or receiving feedback, it is critical to do it in a manner to foster growth, not negativity. Are you good at giving and receiving feedback? Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #bettereveryday #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #bayharbourumc #russelltomlinson #marriageadvice #mindset #feedback #feedbackmatters #feedbackwelcome #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #resetyourmind #buildabetteryou #thankfulwednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdaymotivation #WednesdayThoughts #people #choices #choicesmatter

—an area where a person's ability to see other people's reactions is hindered or where a person lacks understanding— I have been writing about blind spots for quite some time. I want to review a few examples of not being able to recognize blind spots in relationships: Feeling distance or lack of closeness Feeling "cut from the herd." Not feeling confident and not knowing why Remember, blind spots are what we say and do that push people away, and we don't recognize why. I may feel totally validated in my conversation but am entirely ignorant of how I am presenting. Take, for instance, the Know-It-All—If I am accused of being a know-it-all, I may be showing up as having all the answers, giving rebuttals for all my reasons, being intrusive, and interrupting the conversation. I create an unpleasant atmosphere for others who don't know it. Being incessantly right is another, and like the know-it-all, I can argue others into oblivion. I can rationalize, minimize, and justify anything. This is my inability to accept criticism or another person's viewpoint without allowing it to make me feel inferior, guilty, or ashamed. From always being late or too chatty, to not standing up or belittling myself or others, blind spots can create quite a destructive path. Blind spots may only occur a small percentage of the time, but they are annoying enough to make a huge difference. When my blind spots are obvious to others, they can help me recognize or endure them. I have seen it in my practice; blind spots are endured for decades, years, months, weeks, hours, or just a few moments. It depends. Sometimes we meet someone and are immediately turned off by their character, whether it is their words or actions. I had seen poor behavior endured in marriages for decades before they were dealt with either through changing disruptive behavior or the finality of divorce. Often, people give up trying to bring out something limiting our effectiveness in relationships, especially when we continually dismiss, deny, or justify it when it is pointed out. What a waste of living. Blind Spots are countless. To make matters complicated, we do not all have the same ones, but there should be a drive in us to always seek them out. We won't find them all, but together the journey is incredibly healthy and emotionally maturing. Keep exposing the blind spots. Feel free to comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #family #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #mentalhealth #relationships #relationshiprevolution #russelltomlinson #relationshipcoach #therapy #familyfirst

Robin was having a dreary day. This was odd because she generally began her day with vigor. She decided to take a mental health day, rest, relax, and see if she could return to her former self because she was feeling rundown. Ralph returns home from a long commute and day of work to find the house in a mess. He has little tolerance for this disarray but clenches his jaw and does not say anything initially. He had anticipated that Robin would welcome him home and the two would have a nice evening together. As he continues gaining evidence about things that did not get done or that were not done well, he finally expresses his exasperation to Robin, "Looks like you had a productive day today." "Ouch," Robin feels the bite of his words and stays quiet. Robin had anticipated that Ralph would return home and support her. Ralph continues with a laugh and says, "What's the matter? Can't you take a joke?" Robin is not in a joking mood. After all, he didn't know her day was miserable or even question if anything could happen to her. He was not thinking of her feelings or her experience of the day. He was in his world. [Blind Spot] Ralph uses sarcasm as a passive-aggressive means of expressing his discontent. He made his first error in assuming that Robin simply sat around doing nothing. His second mistake was to express it with sarcasm. Asking ourselves what our expectations are and conveying them to another is a great way to be understood. This experience set the tone for the evening to be distant from each other rather than enjoy each other. One of the definitions of sarcasm is to cut or tear flesh. Ouch! Sarcasm is so culturally accepted that it is not viewed by some as hurtful in relationships. Others feel the cut and tear and don't speak up even though it is painful. Most of us love a good joke. A joke means that everyone laughs. If all do not laugh, it falls into the sarcasm category. Being intentional in bringing humor to a relationship is extremely healthy. Do you lead with sarcasm or jokes? Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share, I appreciate your input. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about Myself #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #energy #energyhealing #marriage #selfempowerment #jokes #jokesonyou #sarcasm #fridayinspiration #changeyourmindset #changeyourlife #mindset #thinking #MindOfChrist #mindovermatter #empoweryourself #bayharbourumc #RussellTomlinson #relationshiprevolution #Friday #fridayvibes #fridaymotivation #leadershipcoaching #buildabetteryou

Who am I in your presence? Often, I am in the presence of another and find myself frustrated or not feeling good about myself when I am with them. What an unpleasant experience. People who present unpleasantness are usually oblivious to it and persist until they discover it is unappealing to others and modify it or risk being abandoned. [Blind Spot] I frequently hear someone described as having alienated others due to their narcissistic, gaslighting, or manipulative behavior. Let's define these behaviors for clarity. A narcissist is a person who has an excessive interest or admiration for themselves and discounts others. Gaslighting is the psychological manipulation of a person that causes them to doubt their thoughts, perception of reality, or memories. Manipulators exploit or scheme to control someone cleverly or unscrupulously. These behaviors occur on a continuum from mild to chronic and anywhere in between. A person can be mildly narcissistic, or they can be chronically narcissistic. It is the same with gaslighting or manipulating. Experiencing these behaviors from the ones we love is miserable. These terms are usually expressed with disdain or some pejorative connotation to describe a person who is challenging to deal with or someone who has verbally or psychologically injured them. People in one or more of these terminologies are complicated to be aro und. It is not okay to suffer from anyone who treats you in these three ways. Sometimes it is impossible to get away from them, especially if they are family or coworkers. However, to remain in their presence is toxic and usually deteriorates the relationship. Though it is only natural to wish to affect change in others, keep in mind that we can only change ourselves. This is where, culturally; we tend to fail. It is easy to distance ourselves from them, blaming their behavior or exercising critical judgment for separating from them. I don't mean to imply that we don't need to separate from them, but rather that we must continue to put our focus on changing ourselves rather than playing the victim and saying, "Poor me." I prefer setting boundaries in a way that makes my distance from them evident when I voice my unhappiness or disapproval of my experience with them. Blaming others in a relationship is taking the victim's role and ensuring things will not change until the identified perpetrator changes their behavior. Accepting responsibility for how I allow others to treat me is the emotionally mature way to change the relationship experience. Actions, rather than words, can be a more effective means of conveying the story of discomfort in their presence. Again, the age-old question, "Am I the victim, or am I responsible?" I choose responsibly. Who are you in the presence of others? What do you need to do about any toxic relationships? Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #bettereveryday #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #bayharbourumc #russelltomlinson #marriageadvice #mindset #narcissistic #narcissist #narcissisticabuseawareness #manipulators #manipulation #gaslightingawareness #gaslighting #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #resetyourmind #buildabetteryou #thankfulwednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdaymotivation #WednesdayThoughts #people #choices #choicesmatter

Honor your father and mother. [Exodus 20:12] It's difficult to believe that some mothers and fathers have yet to earn this privilege. This is not about passing judgment on them but making a point for all of us. Last Sunday, we sat behind a young family; a mom, a dad, and three children ages 9, 7, and 5. They were a delight to observe. The dad was engaged in the service, and so was the mom. I was particularly enamored by the mom, who was constantly engaged with each child separately. Her looks told a powerful story and were unmistakable. Her smile was approval and acceptance. Her eyebrows told one story, and her pursed lips told another. Each child was very attuned to her. Her tilted head expressed pay attention. Her smile said they were doing a great job. She spent time with the 7-year-old during the hymns by pointing out the complicated method of reading the hymnal. While talking about scripture, she helped the older two find it in their children's bible that they carry each Sunday. Amazingly she did all of this without disengaging in her participation in the service. What a delight to watch her seamlessly orchestrate them in such a way that seemed like a language they knew and understood without using words. Occasionally, Dad would glance across with the same telepathic ability, expressing his thoughts of their acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Following a wonderful children's sermon, they retreated with the other children to spend their own time together. The parents then moved side by side and participated in the remainder of the service. What an excellent example of a family worshiping together. Honor your father and mother. This commandment calls on us as children to be devoted to our parents, but it also calls on us as parents to be honorable so that respect for one another and for the family develops naturally through love, dedication, and discipline. Oh, to be able to go back and do it again. It may have been very different for my family. I am sure it would have been. Yet knowing that there is no turning back, we can search for role models and examples of how we can make today better than yesterday. Honor your father and mother. Need I ask any questions about your understanding of this commandment? I choose better every day. How about you? Watch for the blind spots. Feel free to comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a your book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #mondaymotivation #mondaymood #mondaymorning #mondaythoughts #blindspots #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bayharbourumc #family #growthmindset #10Commandments #emotionalmaturity #counseling #growtogether #mindsetiseverything #marriagecoach #mentalhealth #relationships #relationshiprevolution #russelltomlinson #relationshipcoach #therapy #familyfirst

People will occasionally make an alarming and difficult comment. Unsolicited advice or false accusations can be the worst. I call it “blurting” and here are examples: Why did you do it that way? Why do you allow that to happen? Why don't you do it my way? You should not listen to them. You need to fix that. Your colors are uncoordinated. Your car is ugly. You need to get another one. Can't you keep up? Your family is chaotic. As you can see from the examples above—to blurt means to say something suddenly without thinking and is generated by excitement or discontent. It is sometimes heard as a false accusation. Blurts entice us to follow along with the subject introduced by the blurter. Attempting to defend this type of conversation can be futile and exhausting at best. It can be quite challenging but also incredibly beneficial to learn how to symbolically move aside and let these kinds of words sink into the wall behind us. First, I like to preplan my conversation with a blurter. I asked myself what they might say or ask, and then I predetermine how I want to respond. It is a great idea to put these things in writing, so you have a record to look back on and add to as you continue to use this technique. Here are a few gently curious questions and a statement that have proved to be rock solid: Why did you do it that way? (answer) How come you ask? Your family is chaotic. (answer) What would you like me to do with that information? You are wrong. You need my help. You are jumping the gun. (response) This is coming so fast I feel blown away or even inept. Isn't that something? I really know what I'm doing and how to handle this. Thanks for your opinion. If they reply or answer my question, I use an eloquent grunt. Humm. Then I don't say anything else. Second, I like to refrain from engaging in their subject matter. I like to have a one-minute story that I can throw down in the middle of the blurting attack, Did I tell you about…? It is amazing that people are unaware they come across in a way that is disconcerting or annoying to another. [Blind Spot] Remember, because they are unaware of it, trying to bring it to their attention can sometimes be futile. It is a process of learning how to strategically disengage and you will get better each time you find yourself in this situation. Identify the blurt and prepare a response plan. Although it is simple to say, doing so is challenging. It hurts to be a blurter's victim. Watch for the blind spots. Please comment, like, and share, I appreciate your input. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about Myself #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #energy #energyhealing #marriage #selfempowerment #fridayinspiration #changeyourmindset #changeyourlife #mindset #thinking #MindOfChrist #mindovermatter #empoweryourself #bayharbourumc #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #resetyourmind #Friday #fridayvibes #fridaymotivation #leadershipcoaching #buildabetteryou

There is a song that goes, "I'm in a hurry to get things done, oooh I rush and rush until life's no fun..." ending with "I'm in a hurry and don't know why..." I think it is the same as "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get..." Busyness can be the "blind spot" keeping you from recognizing what you desperately need. I know your to-do list is likely close by and packed with tasks. It is a very ‘busy’ day. Sometimes we know there is a better way to do things, but we are just so 'busy' we do not even think we have the time to find it–so we keep going like we always have. [Blind Spot] Busyness can happen so subtly that you don’t realize what is going on until it is to late—a broken marriage, strained relationships, health scares, anxiety attacks. [Blind Spot] I want you to hear is this—You have this one fantastic life. I do not want you to get up every morning feeling totally exhausted and defeated before it even begins. Time is the greatest gift we have, because it is the only thing we will never get back. How you devote your time is how you devote your life. Do not let ‘busy’ steal your moments, take the time to count your blessings, ‘practice’ slowing down, let go of what you cannot control, 'listen' to your heart, be productive not ‘busy’ and most of all JUST BREATHE! Happy Wednesday, keep looking for the blind spots! Please comment, like, and share these posts. You can get a copy of my book below. Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't know about myself #blindspots #beahero #inspiration #counselingworks #mindsetmatters #herosjourney #bettereveryday #changeyourlife #selfempowerment #bayharbourumc #mindset #justbreathe #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #resetyourmind #buildabetteryou #thankfulwednesday #WednesdayWisdom #wednesdaymotivation #WednesdayThoughts #people #choices #choicesmatter