Values of the Heart

As children, we often dream of the future and what we want in life. Then, as we grow older, we may not pursue the dream. For one, it may have truly been a childhood dream. One of my dreams as a child was to own a purple ice cream truck. I saw how happy people were when the ice cream truck came down the street. I wanted to be a part of that happiness. Who doesn’t love ice cream? As I grew more mature, my dreams matured.

Another reason we may not pursue our dreams is that life gets in the way. We choose a logical, practical way to pay the bills and soon lose sight of our dreams. Well, maybe we remember and yearn for it in the far reaches of our hearts. But all of our energy and time are being given to the very logical, practical path. I understand the need to be practical. But I also know where there is a will there is a way.

Here’s a concept for you. Think of a change you made in your life, big or small. Now, try to think back to before you made the change. How difficult or impossible did it seem? Change always seems difficult because we have to think and focus and consciously do something different. We are no longer on autopilot. But now, think of how the change has become a part of your life. In fact, it may seem quite easy to do, because you’ve become acclimated to it. The same holds true for pursuing your dream.

Think of small steps you can make toward your dream. What’s one small thing you could do that would be different, but not all consuming. Do that! When you’ve done one small thing, do another. Then you’ll find momentum and you’ll get excited. Excitement will propel you forward. Then, before you know it, you will be that much closer to your dream.

I think that we sometimes don’t take the steps because we are so busy doing everything else on our plates. But, we owe it to that yearning in our hearts to take the steps…even if they are small. You can do it! What can you do this week?

You are unique and wonderful. Wait….read that again. You are unique and wonderful! What do you think about that? Take a moment. Think about it. Do you believe you are unique and wonderful? I may not have ever met you and I can tell you that it is true! Write this on a post it note and put it in your purse or post it to your computer or in your car.

Now, if you believe it, I mean truly believe it, what are you doing with your unique gifts? Are you hiding them? Are you using these gifts on a regular basis?

If you truly believed in the blessings you have been given, you would be so powerful. Maybe you do realize it, but you needed reminding. This is for you: You are unique and wonderful.

I grew up in a family that was in turmoil. It was difficult to say the least. I didn’t know what else there was out there, but I knew something wasn’t right. However, I never realized my true gifts until I was 30 yrs old. I was ecstatic. Who me? I have gifts? I took a step in the direction of my gifts, not knowing where it would lead.

That’s difficult for us women, to do something without knowing the outcome. You want to know, don’t you? I still struggle with wanting to know. But, I’m here to tell you that taking a step toward your gifts is much better than treading water where you are right now. And if you are currently pursuing your gifts…keep going!

Here’s the thing: persistence will always beat pursuing perfection. Sure, we’ll make mistakes. That’s how we learn. You have a passion for a reason. That’s your purpose. No one else is exactly like you. No one else can offer exactly what you can offer.

What are your unique gifts? How are you using those gifts? I’d love to hear from you! Send me an email via the contact page or leave me a comment.

If you downloaded the report, you read about one of the obstacles to finding balance in your life. It could be that you are not taking care of yourself. I know, as women, we often put others before ourselves. But, I want to tell you that sometimes it needs to be all about you. This may take some practice on your part. If you are used to focusing on work or family, take some time each day to focus on yourself.

What do you like to do? Do you have a hobby? Are you spending any time in your life doing what you are interested in? Or do you wait until vacation to pursue those interests? The importance of taking care of yourself is going to be key in achieving balance. When you take time for yourself, you are usually less stressed. It helps to refresh you so you don’t feel like you are running ragged.

I spoke to a woman today from Europe. It was amazing to me just how similar life is there. She takes time for herself. She has found a few ways to find relaxation and to gain focus, too. She knows this helps her to be more present with her family afterwords.

What are some ways you can take care of yourself?

• take a bubble bath
• take a nap
• get a massage
• find a silent place
• read a book or magazine
• have hobby and take time weekly for this hobby
• eat right
• address any medical issues you may have
• have lunch or dinner with friends

The next time you think you don’t have time for yourself, make time. It is that important.