It’s All in the Attitude

By manifest
07/28/2011 7:38


One of my fabulous friends was telling me about how she has had a stressful week, obligations demanding more of her than she thought she had to give. After making it through all she had to do she felt a sense of accomplishment and realized it wasn’t that bad after all. In reflection she understood that her attitude was the key element in getting back what she put into everything she did. How she perceived the moment had an impact on how she experienced it.

Often we are susceptible to self-pity when things begin to get difficult. I find that it takes a conscious decision to overcome the instinct to worry or become frustrated, which is usually just unnecessary emotion. As my friend said, once the moment passes we often realize it was not so bad. So that means by our own thoughts we are controlling the experience. Wouldn’t you rather all of your experiences be full of energy that moves you forward towards your goals? I know I would. So, when you have one of those moments today (I know I have at least one each day, whether it be a slow moving check out line or a seemingly impossible deadline), try to visualize the big picture, seeing this as another rung in the ladder to the top of your goals. It is all in perception!

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Dealing with Stress, Everyday Challenges, Motivation, Practical Applications | Send to friends

Developing Motivation

By manifest
07/22/2011 11:00


Happy Friday everyone! It has been some time since I have written, but here I am now, posting my 100th Blog Entry! With all that has been going on in my life recently, I have been thinking about motivation. In fact, that was part of the reason for my long break from this little blog. I began to wonder if anyone was really reading my posts, and even more, I was wondering if this blog was directing any traffic to the Manifest Store. One of the biggest surprises to me was when a reader contacted me directly to ask where she could purchase a bracelet. Obviously when reading my blog it is not apparent that the site sells jewelry too. To be honest, there had been whispers of shutting it down, and giving up on the jewelry sale business.

This is not a cry out to my readers to make purchases, it is an exploration into my personal motivation. I am sure each of us has from time to time encountered a goal that is not quite working out as we hoped. Keeping motivated to continue, and exploring new directions to reach that goal sometimes takes more effort than we feel like exercising. I have been avoiding the blog in order to ignore thoughts of personal failure, although I certainly had plenty of other excuses I was giving. I wonder if some of my readers are doing the same, avoiding something for reasons other than the excuses we give. Sometimes we have to examine those things closer, and hopefully after being away from something for a little while we can look at it with fresh eyes, and be inspired to move forward once again. I know I am.

Thank you to all of my loyal readers, I am sorry for my absence, and hope that you will be around for another 100 blogs!

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Everyday Challenges, Motivation | Send to friends

Stormy Weather

By manifest
06/06/2011 6:28


Last week my hometown was devastated by a tornado. As I see photos and video of the event, a sense of disquiet covers my heart. This was not just a random town; it was a place where I still have friends and family. This is personal. With that in mind, I considered the challenge of remaining focused within such an event. I have to imagine that each person there must be thinking more critically about his or her life this week, and is possibly considering new life goals in the process.

Whether visited by a tornado or a figurative storm in our life, it is an opportunity for us to evaluate our situation, and consider a new direction. Although tragedy is never a blessing, within every experience there is some good to be found. It is so important to not get discouraged, but instead focus on the small blessings and how each obstacle may be overcome. These storms may be a major turning point in our personal journey, and someday we will look back on them in a much different light.

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Uncategorized | Send to friends

Inspiration for All My Friends

By manifest
06/03/2011 6:39


I have not been writing as frequently lately, and there is so much that I want to share with all of you! For today I want to begin with an inspiring moment a wonderful friend shared with me and others. It reminded me of how important it is to hold up our friends in love and gratitude. As we lift each other up we in turn are lifted. When we tear each other down, we fall farther and farther from the glorious life we were meant to have. As you read this story, think of all your wonderful friends, how they inspire you and how you can inspire them… Then listen to the song!

“A funny and delightfully emotional moment tonight…. I was out on a run, listening to one of my all time favorite bands/songs (Abba- Chiquitita) and thinking about all of you and how grateful I am to have such truly amazing girlfriends. In my moment of gratitude, I burst out singing along to the song….apparently at the top of my lungs, as my neighbors on both sides of the street began waving to me as I came into my street…clearly I was startling them. Haha…such a good moment. Tears rolling down, smile on my face…and lungs full of joy….I kept singing – although I lowered the volume….and knew I had to send this all out to you.”

You Tube Video – Chiquitita

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: How to Manifest, Just for Fun, Motivation, Practical Applications, Stories, Wonderful YOU | Send to friends

Inspiration Wednesday – Ancient Ruins

By manifest
05/18/2011 8:32


For this weeks inspiration, let’s go on a walk in an ancient town; far, far away. It is a quiet morning as you hike the short distance the guide directed you. The ground is a combination of packed earth and rock, with a hint of green life poking through at various intervals. The sky above is full of friendly clouds as you approach your destination. Ahead you see the ancient ruins, a symbol of strength and perseverance. Just then, the clouds begin to disperse, and the sun breaks through, as though setting a spotlight on your destination. You stop in front of the structure, and are overcome with the reality of it’s antiquity, and how many others have stood in this place before you. Now you pause to focus on the message this moment is sending you.

These remains are a testament to the fleeting nature of our lives. They stood here long before our grandparents were even a possibility. They will continue to be after we are gone from this world. Our life is but a moment compared to this structure. Are we wasting the precious moments we have on trivialities that have no consequence, or are we using the time we have to fully experience life and live in harmony with the world around us? Looking at this image, I am reminded that life is too short to be wasted on worries and regrets. There is only this moment, and I choose to be happy.

Inspiration Wednesdays are designed to share with you a place, idea or goal that may inspire you with a new idea or aspiration. This is a mid-week break to “take you away” for a few moments of the day. If you have an idea you would like to share, post it on my Facebook Page or Discussion Board.

Categories: Inspiration Wednesdays, Motivation | Send to friends

My Dream

By manifest
05/17/2011 7:41


I have had a longing for many years to write a book. The past few months I have begun to take that longing seriously. So, how do we take a dream and actually turn it into reality? It is not always easy. The more effort I have been putting into my goal, the more challenges have arisen to detract me from it. I think that is so often the case. We become passionate about something that we want to happen in our lives, and innumerable roadblocks set up in our path. I have been writing about many of those happening in my life lately, and it is very discouraging. I still am moving forward however, because I honestly believe success is not something that comes easily. It is attainable, but you must have the dedication and motivation to overcome all of the obstacles that will come in the way. I think a great way to begin working on a dream is to write an affirmation, and keep it nearby as a reminder. Several months ago I wrote this affirmation to inspire me and keep me on track, and it has provided me with the resolve to continue working on my goal. I recommend this exercise to anyone who has a dream, it is a fantastic addition to the manifest toolbox.

“I am going to write a novel and get it published. I am going to do it because writing a novel is worthwhile and because I have the talent to do it. I am going to do it because I have something important to say to the world. I refuse to let anything get in the way.” ~TB

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: How to Manifest, Motivation, Practical Applications | Send to friends

Cult Mindset?

By manifest
05/12/2011 8:40


Someone very close to me shared news yesterday that they saw to be a blessing, and I feel is a disaster. I am at a total loss as how to respond. Lately she has become very vocal in quoting scripture and giving praise to the Lord. I am usually one to encourage people to embrace Jesus, however I am concerned that the zealous behavior I have been witnessing is doing more harm to my friend than good. My intellect tells me that she has become entranced into a cult-mindset that has taken away her ability to see the truth. In her life she has manifested a reality that could do her incredible harm physically and mentally, and in the process she has turned away from family and friends who would support her if she left this environment that appears to to be self-destructive. It is so difficult when we witness those we love embracing self-destructive behaviors.

In my loss for words, I did some research to assist me. I found the following advice that seems to make a lot of sense to me. Whether or not she belongs to an actual cult, I think this mentality can overcome many people who are trying to escape and “old self” due to low self esteem or other mental disorders, and the following advice still applies.

“If you criticize a cult member, this may just encourage their tendency to see themselves (their old self) as flawed, and may push them further into the cult. If you criticize their church or group, the cult-member will go into cult-self mode and will see your criticisms as tending to confirm the cult’s warnings about the outside world and its negative effects. A better approach may be to acknowledge and encourage a cult member’s old self, without criticizing or threatening the new cult self. If a cult member feels valued in themselves, and their old self does not feel devalued, then this weakens the cult’s attraction for them. ” ~Mark Dunlop

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Self-Destructive Behaviors, Stories | Send to friends

A Speeding World

By manifest
05/11/2011 7:54


Over the last week my life seemed to speed into overdrive. My obligations increased, and everything began to move so fast. I could not keep up. The demands of this fast-paced world were impacting my preferred serene one. There were so many things I wanted to do but couldn’t; from keeping up correspondence, spending time with my husband, cooking dinner and even writing this blog. Everything was suddenly out of control, and I was overwhelmed. I think this happens to all of us sometimes. I even know some women who live in this environment constantly, and maybe even thrive in it. I am not one of those. I prefer to have time to add the little details to life, from writing an actual letter to my 97-year-old grandmother, to setting the table with cloth napkins for dinner.

On Monday night I began to recognize how my priorities had been reversed. It was a beautiful evening, and my husband suggested we eat outside, and enjoy our newly furnish deck and the wonderful weather. Sitting out there, enjoying a glass of wine and listening to the birds chirp nearby, I was reminded of what each day should be about. It is these little moments, the company of loved ones, and building relationships that is so important. On Tuesday I discovered ways to make my schedule more manageable. Mostly, I realized that some of the work I was doing did not need to be perfect. That was hard for me to accept, but also freeing. I don’t think finding ways to minimize obligations is always so easy for everyone. If this is something you are struggling with (and I have a feeling some of my readers are), I urge you to manifest your perfect life, free of the stress and chaos of a world moving too fast. What is included in that scene? What has been removed? Now, with work, prayer and the power of God, you can begin moving towards that perfect scene.

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Dealing with Stress | Send to friends

Putting out Fires

By manifest
05/06/2011 8:32


Well, I had no idea I would be as challenged as I was yesterday to maintain my goal from earlier this week. In case you did not read my last entry, I have been struggling with the many obstacles that keep me from achieving my goal. It seems there is always some big emergency that takes priority, distracting me. Yesterday that came in the form of an oven fire while I was making breakfast. Not my favorite way to start the day! I don’t know about you, but that was my first oven fire. This must have been the first time I used the broiler on this oven, and apparently I need to adjust how I use it. After seeing the mess left behind from the extinguisher fluid, I knew that a good portion of my day would be wrapped up in cleaning the house. This stuff gets EVERYWHERE! Part of that was from ventilating the house after; you could see the white dust pouring thorough the hallways following the current of the wind towards the bedroom window. It was incredible, and extremely discouraging. As I began digging in to the mess, I was reminded of my blog from earlier this week, and could only wonder. It would appear that when I stepped up my resolve to overcome the obstacles in my life, the obstacles themselves retaliated.

So, has this deterred me? The moments proceeding the incident did leave me discouraged. I thought it would take the entire day to clean the mess. I dug right in however, and within 3 hours I had disassembled, cleaned and reassembled the oven, and wiped down all of the surfaces in the kitchen, dining, living room, bedroom and office. I am sure I will find more dust in the weeks to come, but for the most part things are back to normal. The remainder of the day I discovered a more efficient way to complete some of the other work I needed to get done, and have not fallen behind. The one thing that did not get done was the task I have been reserving 15 minutes for each day. So, this time the devil got his way. Even so, I plan to get right back on track. I just hope he does not send me any more fires…

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Everyday Challenges, Stories | Send to friends

Juggling

By manifest
05/03/2011 7:03


Ever have something that you really needed to get done, and it seemed that so many more pressing things keep distracting you? This has been an issue I have been running into lately, and I never seem to find the time to get done what is really important. This past weekend I caught myself getting a little angry over the other tasks that kept popping up to distract me. Then I took a moment to really think about it, and consider the cause. One thought is that I am procrastinating, finding other things to give me an excuse to avoid my goal. Then I thought deeper, and considered the dark forces that do exist on earth.

I believe that when there is something really important for us to accomplish, which is in line with the will God has for us, the devil tries his damnedest to keep us from accomplishing it. It comes to us in so many innocent forms, from everyday distractions to the negative thoughts that tear us down. So how to we overcome this obstacle that we cannot see? For me it begins by recognizing it for what it is, and turning it over to God in prayer. The tasks themselves that interrupt me are not the evil, but the force behind them. Therefore, I need to understand that as long as I am trying to achieve my goal, there will be constant hurdles. I must find a way to juggle the obstacles while still accomplishing my goal. In addition to prayer, I am also setting aside a small amount of time each day to my task, only 15 minutes to start, which I can squeeze in no matter what. It is not the amount of time I originally had hoped for, but I know it is feasible. When more time is available I will spend more time on it, but at least I know, when other things come up, I still have my 15 minutes reserved. So, I begin today! I will keep you posted in the weeks to come.

If you have a story about manifesting to share or would like me to discuss a particular topic, post it on my Facebook Page, or in one of the Manifest Discussion Boards. I would love to share your experience on my blog!

Categories: Everyday Challenges, How to Manifest | Send to friends