The sun was setting on a full day, from a conference that had filled my mind yet prevented me from getting in my usual morning exercise, to a lengthy appointment and numerous conversations that all together had worn me down. As I began my drive home, I noticed my irritation when my cell phone buzzed three more times to announce incoming texts and another phone call. I started to replay the … [Read more...] about Being Aware – and Taking Care – of Our Own Needs
anxiety
How to Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Stress is a normal reaction that people feel as they encounter changes and difficulties in life. And anxiety can be a reaction to the stress. But chronic stress can lead to anxiety disorders, the most common mental-health illness affecting people in the U.S. And it can lead to other serious health conditions, too. So how can we manage stress and anxiety in proven ways? Approaches to Manage … [Read more...] about How to Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Step 15: Press Pause Before Saying Yes
The next time someone approaches you with a request - any request - press pause before saying yes. Why? Because you don't have to do it all. Really, you don't. And whenever we say yes to one commitment, we automatically say no to others that may be as or more important. We can't do it all. So we must press our internal pause button and fully consider an offer before we say yes … [Read more...] about Step 15: Press Pause Before Saying Yes
Step 9: Feeling Unprepared? Show Up Anyway
At different times in our lives, we each encounter situations for which we feel unprepared. Maybe it's a difficult family situation with no end in sight, a work project that grows bigger each day, or simply a personal goal that seems out of reach. Each step hasn't gone as planned. Progress seems elusive. And you feel ill-equipped to finish. If you gave in to your stinkin' thinkin', you might … [Read more...] about Step 9: Feeling Unprepared? Show Up Anyway
Waiting for Wednesday
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”— Micah 6:8 (NIV) How is it with your soul? John Wesley, one of the founders of the Methodist movement in the 18th century, used to open small group meetings by asking that question. It's one worth asking ourselves in the 21st century, too. … [Read more...] about Waiting for Wednesday
Faith & Sweat: 100 Unicycles for Suicide Prevention
On the 1st of each month, we feature a story of someone putting their "Faith & Sweat" into action. This month I profile Jackie Lea Shelley, whose work I discovered through an online blogging challenge earlier this year. Her story inspired me, and I loved her fun, colorful designs. I have unicycle #29 hanging in my office. Some people see a unicycle as a symbol of balance, agility, and … [Read more...] about Faith & Sweat: 100 Unicycles for Suicide Prevention
