Change...

All changes in my life are positive and empowering.

All changes in my life are of my own creation.

All of the changes in my life are positive and empowering.

All things in life change, and I adapt willingly and easily.

Change allows me to experience my true nature.

Change energizes me.

Change helps me to grow.

Change is a wonderful learning experience for me.

Change is exciting and I welcome it into my life.

Changes in my life always empower me.

Each and every day I stretch my comfort zone a bit further.

Each day I do one new thing to improve the quality of my life.

Each day I stretch my comfort zone a bit further.

Every day I am evolving into a more fulfilled person.

Every day I am transforming myself into a more positive being.

Every day I attract people who help me grow.

Every day I make new and positive changes in my life.

Every day I stretch my comfort zone a little further.

Every day I stretch my comfort zone by doing one thing different.

Every day my life changes in positive, exhilarating ways.

Every day my life is changing for the better.

Every moment in my life I see new wonderful opportunities for change.

- Che Garman

I came across this change affirmation and it made me smile. Right outside my comfort zone is the beginning of my life. I am excited and looking forward to what's next. 

How do you deal with change? How does it make you feel? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Why You Should Not Compare!

"Comparison is the thief of Joy".- Theodore Roosevelt

Over the past few weeks, maybe even longer than that, I have been comparing myself to others. This would be great, if this was motivating me ,but the opposite is happening.These constant comparisons have not only stole my joy, but has lead to some paralyzing roadblocks.These roadblocks have shown up in my life as different things, such as procrastination, avoidance, pity party and many other things.

As I sat down to write this very blog, I typed in comparison into the google search engine. There were hundred of images, web pages and pins that popped up. I started clicking away looking for the perfect image and reference material for this blog topic. As I continued to click, finding other bloggers discussing the same topic, I automatically started to compare. The negative chatter and thoughts ensued, someone already wrote about this topic and who will read my blog anyway. I thought to myself you might as well select another topic or better yet I will post another day.

Then I realized that I needed to post this blog and break this vicious cycle . This constant comparison to others, can be crippling and paralyzing. Comparison may be useful when used for friendly competition or to motivate. However, if it is becoming this negative tsunami of thoughts and stopping you from moving forward, its an issue.

Here are some tips to remember when you start to compare:

1.  Is it True? When you start to compare yourself, your work or anything to someone else ask yourself if this is true. Most likely it is not. Take a minute and switch your thoughts to something positive.

2.  Be patient. Be your bigger cheerleader instead of your worst critic. Take things one step at a time, knowing that you are working towards something great. Strive to be best and do your best everyday.

3. Connect with positive people. Stay connected with people that inspire, nourish and bring out the very best in you. Go where you are celebrated not tolerated!!

4. You were created unique and there is no one like you in the world. You should embrace this and realized that your voice and purpose need to be fulfilled and only YOU can do it.

HAPPY!

 Happiness is an inside job,no one else is responsible for your happiness!- JJ Flizanes

Are you up for the job? Life is going to happen thats a given ,but how you react is up to you. The sooner you realize that you do not have to wait to be happy the better off you'll be. Stop waiting until you finish that novel, painting, get engaged/married, make a certain amount of money, have a baby, get a divorce, quit your job,ect. The list can go on and on.  If you want to be happy, start NOW!!!

Enjoy the present, it's a gift!

Click below to hear some feel good music by Pharell Williams: HAPPY
www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM

You're Right!

Whether you 

THINK YOU CAN,

Or Think you can't

YOU'RE RIGHT.
- Henry Ford

Our thoughts have more power than you can ever imagine.That inner voice should be kind, supportive and encouraging. Sometime we have to believe in ourselves when no one else will. YOU can do whatever your heart desires, you just have to put in the time and dedication.

Keep Moving!

    Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.-MLK

 I  would like to salute all the amazing trail blazers past, future and present. Happy Black History Month!!

Feed Your Soul!!!

     

What's more important to you?

Simple!

To learn, read.To know,write.To master,teach.-Anonymous

BE YOU!

               

     "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind" -Dr. Seuss

Lift Every Voice and Speak!!!

I had laryngitis a few months back and was not able to speak for almost two weeks. At first I was extremely frustrated not being able to speak and communicate with anyone. I wrote notes, sent text, emails, nodded and smiled a whole lot. After my frustration subsided, I began to reflect and took this time to think about why I might have lost my voice and what it might be like if i could never speak again. The lost of my voice did not come from screaming at a concert or singing my favorite song at the top of my lungs. Although either of those would have be good reasons to lost my voice, it just kind of happened.

I believe that everything, good or bad happens for a reason. There is always a lesson to be learn or something we can take away. As my voice slipped away, I turned to my e-book Heal Your Body by Louise Hay (which is a truly fascinating book) , in this book you can look up your health challenge/problem, there's a probable cause and a positive affirmation/thought on how to overcome it.

Problem: Laryngitis   

Probable Cause: So mad you can't speak. Fear of speaking up. Resentment of authority.

Positive affirmation: I am free to ask for what I want. It is safe to express myself. I am at peace.

There is was in black and white, fear, anger, resentment ;not speaking up and letting  my voice be heard. At first glance I tried to dismiss it, it couldn't be right or was it? After some self reflecting and being honest with myself I realized it was right on the money. I was anger and fearful of  speaking up at home, work ,church pretty much anywhere.By not speaking up or letting my voice be heard  I was telling myself that what I had to say was not as important as what a co-worker , my boss, my boyfriend, my pastor, anyone else. Which is not true!

I like to give people positive encouragement/support with issues or obstacles they may be facing. It has always been second nature for me to want to offer a helping hand or lend an ear. Which is why, I majored in  psychology in college, why I pursued my certification for health coaching and why I am a wellness coordinator. So how could I encourage others to be positive, let their voices be heard and follow their passion, and not be doing this myself! This was definitely a wake up call for me.

Your thoughts become your words and your words become your actions. Everyday  I have to make a conscious decision to think positive thoughts and be grateful for the wonderful blessings in my life. I am a work in progress, far far from perfection. I try to surround myself with positive and encouraging people, who will lift me up when I am down.

Andrea Beaman and I

Last week, Andrea Beaman came to Amscan ( where I work as a wellness coordinator) to present a cooking demo/lecture: Health is Wealth. Andrea  is an amazing holistic health coach and natural foods chef. She's a graduate from IIN, where I recently graduated and became a certified holistic health coach. While we were setting up for the presentation, we were talking about public speaking and I was expressing my fear around this area. After the presentation I asked her to sign my copy of Health is Wealth book in it she wrote this:

Jamilia,

Speak up/out , you are powerful and needed!
Andrea

I am truly thankful for the encouraging and motivating words from Andrea. It definitely has had a positive effect on me.

We are all humans that are perfectly imperfect beings.We are not meant to be perfect or even run like robots. Our bodies will always give us signs or warnings when something is not in harmony or out of balance. The key is to listen when your body is speaking to you and take the steps to let the healing began.  Are you listening to your body?

Don't Worry

When you worry, you don't trust God. When you trust God you don't have to worry.

The choice is yours.

Do Whatever it Takes!

" I will do more than belong-- I will participate. I will do more than care-- I will help.

  I will do more than believe-- I will practice. I will do more than be fair-- I will be kind.

  I will do more than forgive-- I will forget. I will do more than dream-- I will work.

  I will do more than teach-- I will inspire. I will do more than learn--I will enrich.

  I will do more than give--I will serve. I will do more than live--I will grow.

  I will do more than suffer--I will triumph."

-  William Arthur Ward

 You must do " whatever it takes" to reach your goal, your dream!! Don't let fear paralyze you, move forward with trembling hands and shaky knees, but move!!

Its all about LOVE!!!

"You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,

Love like you'll never be hurt,

Sing like there's nobody listening,

And live like it's heaven on earth.

And speak from the heart to be heard."

-William W. Purkey

  

Tunes!!

Here are two songs that I love to listen to. I hope you enjoy.

Mary,Mary- Go Get It

Whitney Houston- I Look to You

Beauty!

I absolutely love this photograph. It is breathtaking and elegant! I keep a copy at my desk,occasionally I'll look over  and  get lost in its beauty !!  Be inspired!!

Positive over Negative!!

Negativity can engulf you up and swallow you whole if you allow it to. You do not have to let negativity take over, you have control and the power to think positive. It does not take a whole lot to complain and moan. If you think about how you feel before and after, you realize nothing changes or maybe you  feel worst. We must be mindful of the words that come out our mouths, the thoughts we allow in our mind and the people we surrounded ourselves with. This quote describe it best:

"Your beliefs become your thoughts,

Your thoughts become your words,

Your words become you actions,

Your actions become your habits,

Your habits become your values,

Your values become your destiny."- Gandhi

Therapy

November: 13

Is seeking therapy a sign of weakness or taboo even in some cultures ? Many are still resistant to seeking professional help,it may be an absolute last resort for some, if an option at all. Maybe people have a distorted view and understanding of the purpose of therapy. Therapy can be supportive and even lead to a most fulfilled and independent life, sometime it might even be challenging. Let's explore some of the taboo surrounding seeking therapy.

  1. I'm not crazy, I do not need to see a shrink!

  2. I can talk to my family or friends about my problem(s).

  3. I can handle this on my own, I am not weak.

  4. It will just be a waste of time and money.

  5. What will my family or friends think.

Any of these sound familiar. There are many reasons people seek therapy and each individuals' experience is unique.Here are a few of the reasons one might reach out to a therapist or psychologist.




1. Experiences a major crisis in their life. ( Lost of a love one, serious issues at home or work,a traumatic experience,  suicidal or homicidal thoughts ) Or major conflict, whether it be martial,couple , family or any other relationship.

2. Anxiety, feeling anxious, having emotions effective your mood. Mild to severe mood swings,depression,or  feelings of hopelessness effecting how you function in your day to day life.

3. Having a significant change in your life. Divorce, break-ups,marriage, giving birth,loss of a job,etc.

4.Unresolved issues or experiences from the past. ( Abusive relationship, neglect from parent or hard times)  Many unresolved issues can show up in as irrational, reckless behavior or lead to destructive actions such as gambling, abusing alcohol and/or drugs, sexual promiscuity, self inflicting pain or hurting others.

As you can see there are many reason one might seek therapy. Therapist, Psychologist and counselors have more to offer than we think. There may be hesitation in seeking professional help, but it could potentially  lead resolution,  breakthroughs and many could benefit from change(s). If you or someone you know may be experiencing problems or  an issue they can not resolve on there own, encourage them to seek help. It is absolutely courageous for us to admit when we can not handle it all and get support . So many things were once considered taboo, rap music, inter-racial dating, getting tattooed or body piercings, the list could go on and on , now all of these things are considered normal or accepted.

There are many resources available for support. Research and contact local therapist, psychologist or counselors in your area, many providers accept insurance and other you pay out-of pocket. There are even free resources available, you just have to do your research. Below are a list of a few hot line and websites.

Resources:
USA National Suicide & Crisis Hotlines
Call 1-800-SUICIDE / 1-800-784-2433
Veterans hot line: 1-800-273-8255
Postpartum Depression (help for moms): 1-800-773-6667
Y.A.H. (Youth America Hot line) : 1-877-968-8454 or visit: Youth line
The TREVOR project (for lesbian,gay, bisexual and transgender): 1-866-488-7386 or  Visit: The TREVOR project

Grateful, Thankful & Blessed!!!

November 5:

I have so much to be thankful and grateful for today and everyday. There are many things that we overlook or take for granted. In the wake of recent events along the east coast, with Super-storm Sandy and a Nor'easter shortly thereafter we have witnessed devastation of among family, friends and others. In times of crisis and tragedy, we come together to support each other and move forward. My wish is that we would all remember to support, give and be there for others whenever we can. Here is a small list of some things i am grateful for today.

1. I am thankful for waking up this morning in my home. There are many people who have lost their homes, cars and all the things that have worked for. There are many people who still do not have power or lights.

2. Family and Friends. Words can only began to describe how blessed i am to have so many wonderful people in my life. My family and friends are there to support me through everything. I do not take any of my relationships for granted. I hope that I am as good to them as they are to me.

3. Last but certainly not less,I am thankful for being able to share my experiences, thoughts and everything in between with you all through my blog, Facebook and other social outlets.

It is easy to complain about what we do not have or how unfair things may be. We all have a lot to be thankful for and we just need to take the time to remember and appreciate all that we do have. It may lift your spirits to take the time out, look at all the things there are to be grateful for.------>

2 Sunday Post

 November 4: What's in your bag/purse/ backpack every day

My bag aka bags, I carry multiple bags on any given day. In my purse, you will find a bunch of things, the main things are:
1. My Ipad: I carry my iPad which has all of my school modules for IIN. In addition to the school work, my Ipad keeps me connected to devotional plans on this amazing app, which is helping with my spiritually and connection to God.
2.My Chargers: In this day and age, there are so many technological gadgets. So i make sure i have my chargers for my iPad and my phone in my bag no matter where i go.
3.Beauty Products: I carry quite a few things, vasoline, lip gloss, lotion, a tide stick just in case. I mean you never know, when you might need any of these things, so i always keep them handy.
4.  Misc.: The rest of my bag is wallet, keys and way to many receipts and other crap i accumulate over the course of weeks. I make a habit of cleaning out my bag to try and stay organized and so how, after a few days or week or so it back to being messy.

As I was sitting here writing this it has brought some awareness to things i would like to change about what i carry with me everyday . I realize that i have the need to carry things , in the event that myself or someone i know might need. I carry at least three bags a day sometime more, my purse, my computer bag and a bag with books and other things. I do not want to be a bag lady,  i need to prioritize and only carry what i will use. SO i am going to make a conscious effort carry only what i will use or need, and realize it is not the end of the world if i do not have everything i own with me. Wish me luck.

What are you carrying in your purse/bag/backpack everyday?

November 11:Vitamin L (aka Love)

   Something I know I can not live without is the affection and love.  I have always been an affectionate person as long as i can remember. I'm a hugger, when most people would simply say bye to a friend, I'm going in for a hug. I think showing people you care about affection is SO important. WE all want and need to be loved and feel love. This can improve your life drastically. Simply smiling or complementing someone can make all the difference.  A small gesture can go a long way.
     I heard a story once about a young man  (we will call him Mike) who was walking home from school one day. He saw another young man( we will call him Larry) who had dropped all his books and some other items he was carrying on the sidewalk. Mike ran up to Larry, helping him pick up his possessions and began walking and talking with him. It was later that Mike would find out, Larry had cleaned out his locker and was planning to go home and commit suicide, but  because Mike stopped and helped him he did not go through with his plan. These two began very good friends. Moral of this story is we do not know what people are going through or have gone through. Live is short, we should love as much as we can while we are here. We all need/want love and to be loved!!Love definitely improves life and  makes the world a better place.

Check out this tune from Rihanna: "We all need love "

Ketch -UP

EEEE-eeeh. I signed up for a Wego Health challenge for the month of November, which is to blog everyday in November for National Health blog post month. In the beginning of the month I started off with great intentions and high hopes.The first two days were great and then I fell off the wagon.This is something I really want and need to do!!!! So, I will be posting all the blogs I missed and all those going forward. Here's to getting back on track, It's never too late.


November 3.  Conversation with My Doctor

   I can think back to the first time I met Dr. Peter Sayegh, my chiropractor. I was referred to him, by my lovely mother. I walked in his office, I remember thinking to myself this is different from other doctors' offices I have visited. The office was warm and inviting, I was greeted by a friendly receptionist. There were fruit, water and tea available for patients. I filled out some paperwork and shortly after, I was able to meet with Dr.Peter. Now keep in mind I had never been to a chiropractor and had little to no clue what they did.
   Dr. Sayegh was very personable and informative, he explained how our nervous system controls everything. He spoke in a way that I could understand. He allowed me to ask questions and he actually  listened to my concerns. He asked me a question that would eventually change the way I  looked at my health and life, he said,"What are you willing to do to obtain optimal wellness/health?" Hmm, What I am I going to do?, Wait a minute aren't you the doctor, shouldn't you be fixing my issues ( This is what I am thinking to myself). Through this conversation and visits to Dr.Sayegh, I realized that I would need to take responsibility for my health and do what was/is necessary for me to feel good. My health is NO ONE else's responsibility but MINES.
   It is easy to get caught up in the day to day grind and easy to forget to do what we need to do. No matter where you are, whether you starting a exercise regimen, starting to change your eating habits or just starting to thinking about making changes, YOU can do it. We all get off track from time to time and we can all make a conscious decision to make a fresh start Today.

Can you remember a conversation you had with a doctor that changed your thoughts, views or life about your health?

Feelings

I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.- Maya Angelou


 As I began to build my health coaching practice and in my future endeavors I want this to be my motto. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. I hope to leave a lasting impression and impact in the lives of my clients and other individuals. As I sit here writing this thinking of the people who left an impression, i smile because i think of those who have positively impacted my life. Although there have been and will be those who were not positive I will continue to follow my dreams. I encourage you to follow your dreams and the desires of your heart, you may be inspiring others along your journey.