10 Ways to Practice Self-Compassion

Posted on May 24, 2023May 24, 2023 by Yuanye Jasmine

“Don’t be too hard on yourself!”

“You are amazing.”

“You are enough and that’s all that matters.”

These are reminders we often tell our friends when they struggle with feelings of self-doubt, self-criticism, and self-judgment. As friends, we take it upon ourselves to treat them kindly and gently, stay with them through panic attacks and anxiety, and reassure them all throughout that everything is going to be okay. I’ve always wondered why we can’t do these things for ourselves. Why can’t we treat ourselves the way we treat our friends in need? The thing is, we are our worst critics and somehow, we are convinced that we don’t deserve happiness, kindness, and sympathy. We find ourselves replaying past mistakes or berating ourselves for not being “good enough”. We live in a society that often reinforces the idea that we are not good enough, smart enough, or attractive enough- it’s just the way our consumerist world is.

When the noise in our heads gets too loud, when our internal critic is unrelenting and harsh, we must practice self-compassion. We treat ourselves with the same kindness, concern, and support that we would offer to a good friend and we love ourselves for the flawed human beings that we are. Self-compassion is a way of acknowledging our own humanity, imperfections, and limitations – it helps us feel calm, connected, and grounded.

Ways To Practice Self-Compassion

1. Starting with mindfulness

Mindfulness is a vital practice in ensuring that we stay grounded and calm, particularly when our internal critic becomes too loud. It involves paying attention to what is happening moment by moment and cultivating awareness and acceptance. One way to practice mindfulness is to take a few deep breaths and focus on the physical sensations of our breaths as we inhale and exhale. We try to notice any thoughts or feelings that arise and simply acknowledge them without judgment.

By adopting mindfulness into our daily lives, we are reminded that it is not necessary to judge ourselves harshly or ruminate about past mistakes constantly. Instead, we learn to acknowledge these experiences as part of who we are without letting them define us negatively. In doing so, some studies found that practicing mindfulness results in reduced depression levels, better sleep patterns, and improved overall mental health levels.

2. Practicing self-talk

The way we talk to ourselves has a powerful impact on our mood, behavior, and overall well-being. If we constantly criticize and judge ourselves, we are more likely to feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated. On the other hand, if we use kind and supportive self-talk, we are more likely to feel confident, capable, and resilient.

One way to practice self-talk is to write down a list of positive affirmations that we can say to ourselves when we’re feeling down or stressed. For example, “I am capable of handling this situation,” or “I am worthy of love and respect.” Repeating these affirmations to ourselves throughout the day reinforces positive self-talk and cultivates a sense of self-compassion.

3. Practicing self-care

We often forget to show ourselves the same kindness we extend to others. It’s understandable, given that we’re programmed to be self-critical and set high expectations for ourselves. Yet, practicing self-care is critical for our emotional and physical health. When we feel overwhelmed or struggling with negative thoughts, it’s time to prioritize our well-being.

Showing ourselves kindness doesn’t mean neglecting responsibilities or ignoring important issues in our lives. It simply means we are allowing ourselves to do things that we actually enjoy and prioritize our physical, emotional, and mental health. Self-care can look different for everyone, but some examples include getting sleep, eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring us joy and relaxation. Incorporating these things into our daily routine will help us feel more energized, centered, and balanced.

4. Striving to avoid judgments and assumptions

It’s difficult to predict what will happen in life. Uncertainty is the only thing certain, after all. Sometimes, we can’t help but think of all the bad scenarios that could happen and we spiral down the rabbit hole, discrediting all our past achievements and our present capabilities. We essentially think ourselves out of happiness and worry about things that haven’t occurred yet.

When we judge ourselves or make an assumption about what we will do in the future, we don’t give ourselves the opportunity to choose a different path. We close ourselves off from all other possibilities and force our mindset into thinking that there is only one way to go about things. In turn, we berate ourselves for the littlest mistakes we make based on our assumptions. Living an unassuming life will illuminate the possibilities of the future and allow us to pave a path for ourselves- a path forged by our successes, failures, talents, and flaws.

5. Recognizing common humanity

We all have our own struggles and challenges. It’s important to recognize that we are not alone in our experiences. When we acknowledge our shared humanity, we can cultivate a sense of connection and compassion towards ourselves and others.

When we’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, we can remind ourselves that others have gone through similar experiences and have come out the other side. It can be helpful to seek support from others who have gone through similar challenges or to read about others’ experiences to gain perspective and understanding. Building these relationships empower us to understand our shared faults and allow us to experience endeavors and challenges with the assurance that no matter how hard we struggle, we will make it in the end.

6. Practicing forgiveness

Forgiving ourselves for mistakes and failures is an important aspect of self-compassion. We all make mistakes and it’s natural to feel guilt or shame about them. However, holding onto these negative feelings can be detrimental to our mental health and well-being.

Practicing self-forgiveness by acknowledging our mistakes and failures and taking responsibility for our actions is the best thing we can do for our growth. We apologize when necessary, we let go of the negative feelings, and we move forward.

7. Practicing gratitude

Gratitude is the practice of acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives. When we focus on what we are grateful for, we shift our perspective from negative to positive. This can help us cultivate a sense of joy and contentment.

Making a daily gratitude list by writing down three things we are grateful for each day will help us see the good things that we already have. This can be as simple as having roof over our heads or a warm cup coffee in the morning. By focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, we feel more grounded and connected.

8. Setting boundaries

Setting boundaries is an important aspect of self-compassion. It’s important to recognize when we are feeling overwhelmed or stressed and to take steps to protect our well-being. This could mean saying no to an invitation or request, taking a break from social media, or setting limits on work hours.

Setting boundaries can be difficult, especially if we’re used to putting others’ needs before our own. It’s important to remember that taking care of ourselves is not selfish, rather, it’s necessary for our overall well-being and can help us become better versions of ourselves for others.

9. Practicing self-acceptance

Self-acceptance is about acknowledging and embracing all aspects of ourselves, including our flaws and imperfections. It’s natural to want to change things about ourselves that we perceive as negative, but it’s important to recognize that we are all human and imperfect.

Practicing self-acceptance by focusing on our strengths and positive qualities while wholly accepting our flaws and imperfections will encourage us to take on challenges with more confidence, knowing that as flawed as we are, we will always come out of the other side, stronger and more fulfilled.

10. Seeking professional help

If we’re struggling with self-compassion, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist can help us explore the underlying causes of our self-criticism and offer tools and techniques for cultivating self-compassion.

Therapy can also help us develop a better understanding of ourselves and our needs. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

It’s easy to get lost in our dark thoughts. The challenge has always been letting go of our past mistakes, emotions, thoughts, and aspirations to make room for growth and new possibilities; essentially, self-compassion allows us to do these things and more. The concept of “good enough” has always been abstract and if we measure our standards of being “good enough” against someone else’s yardstick, we won’t ever feel enough. In the end, what matters is how we view ourselves and how we care for ourselves through tough times. Our strengths, abilities, and talents may not all be acknowledged by others, but they will always be there.

From Where I Was

Posted on May 19, 2023May 19, 2023 by Yuanye

oh, I am so done with being overly emotional.
that thing that comes with human beings.
I will just be a being.

within 10 miles of me,
and within 10 years of me,
let all stories be untold,
let all words be unsaid.

such a clean, clear world,
in such a clean, clear view,
re-written by a clean, clear mind.

from here I am,
and from where I was,
I love.

when I hear emotional songs,
I kinda wonder.
bind not yourselves to that wheel of endless calculation,
that competitive mode of measuring gain and loss.
but you may spend 1000 years there thinking that is kinda fun.

that’s because you know not.

oh anyways,
within 10 miles of me,
and within 10 years of me,
let all stories be untold,
let all words be unsaid.

a command that is given with binding joy.
a call for self love from every timeframe.

dear world, dear self, and dear life…
from here I am,
and from where I was,
I love.

Uncovering the Truth: The Difference Between True Spirituality and Fake Spirituality

Posted on May 15, 2023May 17, 2023 by Yuanye Jasmine

In recent years, an ongoing debate has surrounded the notion of being spiritual versus faking spirituality for money. It is a conversation that involves philosophical and religious connotations, as well as ethical implications. As we continue to search for deeper meaning in life and strive to make healthier choices on our journeys toward personal growth, it’s important to examine whether or not people have adopted spirituality as a means of profiting off of naïve hearts or if they are genuinely seeking spiritual enlightenment. This article will provide an overview of the issues involved in this increasingly relevant debate and offer insight into what might motivate someone to put on the guise of false spirituality.

Definitions of Being Spiritual and Faking Spirituality

Being spiritual is when a person seeks out the greater meaning of life and works on connecting with a higher power. It could involve researching their chosen faith, going to religious activities, or reflecting on personal beliefs. This type of spiritual journey helps strengthen one’s inner peace by promoting humility and connectedness to the divine. On this path, people can grow confident that the laws of karma are in place for them regardless if they become famous or wealthy as a result.

Faking spirituality for money involves exploiting others’ emotions and profiting off people’s desire to search for enlightenment without actually living it. Fakes often give false claims about themselves without any evidence also known as “spiritual marketing” which misleads others while taking advantage of naive faith seekers who then turn into customers instead of true devotees. Those who fake spirituality will use empty promises rather than genuine knowledge when trying to market themselves—the only thing behind their words is greediness and selfishness, not altruism or service towards humanity like true spiritual leaders do in such cases.

What are some examples of genuine spirituality and how can we differentiate it from those who fake or feign spirituality?

Being Spiritual:

Practicing meditation, yoga, or other forms of mindfulness regularly
Being kind and compassionate toward others
Seeking inner peace and happiness
Having a deep connection with nature and the universe
Believing in the power of love and positivity
Being open-minded and non-judgmental toward others’ beliefs and opinions
Engaging in self-reflection and personal growth

Faking Spirituality:

Using spirituality as a means of gaining attention or popularity
Pretending to be more spiritual than one actually is for personal gain
Using spiritual jargon without truly understanding the meaning behind it
Claiming to have supernatural abilities or connections with higher powers for personal gain
Using spirituality as a means of escaping personal responsibility or accountability
Being judgmental towards others who do not share the same beliefs or practices.
Claiming to be experts in a certain religion or spiritual practice like fake psychics, spiritual healers, and gurus who charge exorbitant fees for their services without providing any genuine benefit to their clients.

Therefore being spiritual versus faking spirituality has its ethical implications in terms of whether an individual wants happiness from within through genuine cultivation at a heart level with sincerity or just profitability from money-seeking maneuvers by mind-level business tactics. The motive plays an essential role here where some pursue truth whereas certain few looking for monetary gain misuse harmless believers probing them with alluring techniques far away from authentic enlightening practices.

True spirituality is not something that can be bought or achieved through external means, but rather a product of inner work and self-discovery. The pursuit of spirituality requires a genuine commitment to personal growth and a willingness to engage in introspection and self-reflection.

The Philosophical and Religious Implications of Being Spiritual

The idea of being spiritual is deeply rooted in both philosophy and religion. Being spiritual means a sense of connection to something larger than oneself, whether that something is a higher power, a universal consciousness, or a collective energy. For ages, philosophers, theologians, and spiritual practitioners have investigated and discussed the philosophical and religious implications of being spiritual.

Many philosophers, from ancient thinkers, have grappled with questions about the nature of the universe, the purpose of life, and the existence of God or other higher powers. For some, being spiritual involves a rejection of traditional religious beliefs and a search for a more personal and subjective understanding of spirituality. This can involve practices like meditation, mindfulness, or yoga, which are often rooted in Eastern philosophical traditions like Buddhism and Hinduism. From a religious perspective, being spiritual is often seen as an important aspect of faith and worship. Many religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Hinduism, emphasize the importance of spiritual practice and connection to a higher power or divine consciousness.

In some religious traditions, being spiritual can involve a specific set of practices, such as prayer, fasting, or attending religious services. In others, it may involve a more personal and introspective approach to spirituality, such as contemplative prayer or journaling.

Being spiritual, regardless of the precise activities or beliefs involved, can have profound implications for individuals and societies. It can give people a sense of meaning, purpose, and belonging, and it can help them connect with something bigger than themselves.

At the same time, spirituality may be a source of conflict and division, both within and between religious traditions. Differences in ideas and practices can lead to disagreements and, in extreme cases, violence, as evidenced in disagreements between religious communities throughout history. Finally, the philosophical and religious consequences of spirituality are profoundly personal and subjective. Each person must develop their own path to spirituality, whether through traditional religious traditions, meditation, and mindfulness, or a different approach. What matters most is that spirituality allows people to connect with something bigger than themselves and find meaning and purpose in their lives.

Signs of Faking Spirituality for Money

Spirituality is a personal journey that is frequently associated with self-discovery, inner tranquility, and a relationship with a higher power. However, there has been a rising trend in recent years of people exploiting spirituality to generate money. This has led to a rise in the number of individuals who fake their spirituality for financial gain. Here are signs of faking spirituality for money.

Materialism: Someone who is only interested in accumulating wealth, luxury cars, or expensive clothes is likely to be more interested in money than in enlightenment.
Ego-centeredness: Someone who is constantly talking about themselves, their achievements, or their spiritual status is likely to be more focused on their own self-promotion than on helping others.
Lack of compassion: Someone who lacks compassion, empathy, or kindness towards their students or followers is unlikely to have true spiritual wisdom.
Inconsistency: Someone who frequently changes their teachings or practices based on the latest trends or what is popular is likely to be more interested in making money than in helping others grow spiritually.
Lack of accountability: Someone who refuses to be held accountable for their actions or words is likely to be more interested in protecting their reputation and income than in helping others.
Pressure to donate: Someone who constantly pressures their followers to donate money or make financial contributions is likely more interested in their bank account than in the well-being of their students.
False promises: Someone who promises unrealistic or grandiose results from their teachings or practices is likely more interested in making money than in helping others achieve genuine spiritual growth.

Examining the Motivations of Those Who Fake Spirituality

The motivations behind those who fake spirituality often stem from a desire to make money. Such individuals may take advantage of others’ naivety and vulnerability, attempting to profit off of their spiritual searches. People who pretend to be spiritual may be motivated by a variety of factors, including:

Seeking attention and affirmation: Some people may pretend to be spiritual in order to obtain attention and acceptance from others. They may assume that being perceived as spiritual or enlightened will increase their attractiveness or respectability.
Financial gain: Some people use fake spirituality to make money. Despite having no actual spiritual understanding or experience, they may sell items, services, or courses that promise spiritual enlightenment or healing.
Insecurity and poor self-esteem: Some people may pretend to be spiritual in order to hide their insecurities and low self-esteem. They may assume that seeming spiritual will give them more confidence or self-assurance.
The desire for power and control: Some people employ fictitious spirituality to obtain power and control over others. They may influence and abuse vulnerable people by using spiritual language and activities.
Lack of understanding or knowledge: Finally, some people may pretend to be spiritual simply because they do not grasp what true spirituality implies. They may have a passing knowledge of spiritual activities and ideas, but they lack a genuine connection to them.

Ways to Identify Those Who Genuinely Seek Spiritual Enlightenment

In order to identify those who truly seek spiritual enlightenment, one must first gain an understanding of what the term “spirituality” entails. Spiritual awakening is a profoundly personal and transforming journey. It is a road that involves a great deal of commitment, self-reflection, and a desire to live a more real and purposeful life. However, with the proliferation of spiritual fads and trends, it can be difficult to differentiate between those who sincerely want spiritual enlightenment and others who are searching for a fast fix or a new trend to follow. Here are some indicators that someone is sincerely seeking spiritual enlightenment:

They value inner work: Those who truly pursue spiritual enlightenment recognize that true transformation begins within. They value inner work, such as meditation, self-reflection, and writing, as a means of connecting with their inner selves and gaining a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs.
They have a growth mindset: Those who seek spiritual enlightenment sincerely have a growth mindset. They are receptive to new ideas and perspectives and are eager to question their own beliefs and preconceptions. They regard setbacks and challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
They are not wedded to material stuff: Those who sincerely seek spiritual enlightenment recognize that material possessions are transient and do not provide enduring satisfaction. They are not materialistic and recognize that true fulfillment comes from the inside.
They are sensitive and empathetic: Those who sincerely pursue spiritual enlightenment are filled with compassion and empathy for others. They recognize that we are all connected and everyone on their own individual journey. They treat others with kindness, respect, and understanding.

In conclusion, those who sincerely seek spiritual enlightenment are distinguished by their dedication to inner work, development attitude, disconnection from material goods, compassion and empathy, and appreciation for authenticity. We may discern individuals who are sincerely committed to the spiritual path from others who are simply following a trend or looking for a fast fix by identifying these characteristics.

Impact of Faking Spirituality for Money on Mental Health

Faking spirituality for money can have serious consequences for one’s mental health. It is critical to recognize that spirituality is a personal experience that cannot be purchased or sold. Introspection, self-awareness, and a sincere desire to connect with a higher power are required. However, some people may seek to exploit others’ spiritual beliefs for financial benefit, which can have a number of bad repercussions.

The loss of authenticity is one of the most serious consequences of faking spirituality for money. Individuals who falsify their spirituality frequently feel as though they are living a lie and may experience feelings of remorse and shame. This loss of authenticity can result in a loss of self-esteem and self-worth, both of which can have a severe impact on one’s mental health.

Furthermore, impersonating spirituality for financial gain can lead to a loss of confidence in oneself and others. Individuals that engage in this activity may feel untrustworthy since they are not living in accordance with their genuine ideas and ideals. Anxiety and paranoia might result from a lack of trust.

Finally, feigning spirituality for money might have a negative impact on one’s mental health. Spirituality is a personal path that necessitates authenticity, self-awareness, and a sincere desire to connect with a higher force. When people emphasize financial gain over spiritual development, they risk losing sight of the actual goal of spirituality, which can have a severe impact on their mental health.

Cultivating a Genuinely Spiritual Practice

When a person decides to begin their spiritual practice, it should not be treated lightly. They must honestly consider their intentions and authenticate one’s connection with the Divine. Cultivating a genuinely spiritual practice requires both commitment and honesty from its participants—it is not something to be taken on for monetary gain or as a means of profiting off unsuspecting people seeking hope or personal guidance. Those that are attracted by advertisements for spiritual retreats, workshops, or classes should also take into account if the provider is marketing a “one-size-fits-all” approach versus one that supports an individualized journey toward enlightenment.

There are many resources available today that offer tools necessary in order to work authentically through various stages of transformation while maintaining what philosopher Willis Harman referred to as “an internal frame of reference.” This includes interdisciplinary approaches like journaling, art projects, and mindful living; it also involves activities intended specifically for reinforcing one’s sense of self such as meditation-guided visualization, breathwork, and energy healing exercises. Additionally engaging in lifestyle modifications that promote physical health can complement the overall process–things like yoga, tai chi, and qi gong help create balance without compromising true spirituality since they provide both soulful movement exploration and relaxation practices. Ultimately finding genuine ways to cultivate one’s spirituality promotes holistic wellness rather than external validation alone – this ultimately serves us all better in our pursuit of truth and understanding beyond dogma boundaries or traditional religious belief systems.

Truly Answers to the Great Spirit

Currently, there is an ongoing debate concerning the notion of being truly spiritual versus faking spirituality for money. This conversation includes both philosophical and religious connotations as well as moral implications. As we seek to find a deeper meaning in life and strive towards our own personal growth, it has become important to evaluate if people are using spirituality sincerely or just trying to make money from unsuspecting people.

The truth about spiritual enlightenment cannot be found easily; most often, it requires study and patience since each individual will have a specific path toward inner peace. Some people may use their search for knowledge as a means of making extra income by providing false solutions or shortcuts that can end up costing unsuspecting hearts dearly in the long run. Although not all of those who offer advice on self-improvement are aiming to scam others out of their hard-earned cash; when it comes down to searching for true answers to the great spirit there should be a reliable source that can guarantee accurate information at its core value. After all, no one should have offered something that has been falsely advertised under its name because this would interfere with moral standards around society’s beliefs in regard to religion and how far companies are willing to go in order to increase profits past what is considered ethical behavior.

Smart Goals: The Best Goal Setting Practices for Success

Posted on March 6, 2023March 14, 2023 by Orenda Rivers

Today, being successful often comes down to setting and reaching goals. Whether you’re an extrovert or an introvert, a planner or a list maker, the ability to set smart goals is crucial to your well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve your life in general or simply looking for ways to better focus on specific things, smart goals are the answer. Not only do they help you reach your short-term goals but they also help you think long term as well.

What Are Smart Goals?

A smart goal is one that has a specific, measurable outcome. This means you’ll know exactly what you need to do to reach your goal, and how much time you’re willing to invest over a certain period of time. To create a smart goal, identify your goal and break it into steps or milestones. Write down the main points that compose the steps or milestones and review them often as they may change over time. The most important part of creating a smart goal is tracking your progress towards achieving it. When you track your progress, you will be able to see the progress in real-time and adjust accordingly when needed.

To set the perfect goal, start by setting it up in a way that’s specific, measurable, attractive, realistic and time-bound. For example, if your goal is to run a marathon in 2 years, make sure you pick an attainable date and don’t break it down into smaller milestones. You can also see how these different elements come together with our favorite SMART Goal setting examples below:

Specific: The specific way to reach my goal
Measurable: How I will measure success
Attractive: How will this benefit me?
Realistic: Is this challenging enough?
Time Bound: How long will I work on achieving this goal?

Why Is Setting Smart Goals Important?

Setting smart goals and achieving them is important because it helps you take the first step in building a better life. Imagine, for example, if you are struggling with your school or work performance. If you had set a goal of improving your grades by 10 percent, for example, this would help you focus on what was most important to you. And, as you reached that goal, it would give you confidence in yourself to continue carrying out the task towards other personal goals. Setting smart goals also helps you think long term. Being able to clearly define short-term and long-term goals can help guide your decisions as they relate to what’s important to your life overall. For example: If a friend has asked you to go see her play her first Shakespearean production next week but all of your days are booked up with work commitments, setting smart goals may help show why seeing the play isn’t possible for now but could be in the future when time allows. Additionally, setting smart goals helps guide and motivate your decision making process – which is absolutely crucial when it comes to finding success. Knowing what’s most important will keep you focused on those things instead of being overwhelmed by everything else going on around you – which can lead to procrastination and eventually failure at reaching any of your goals. Now that we’ve shown why setting smart goals is so important, let’s talk about how we can actually do this successfully (and effectively).

Develop a Personal Mission Statement

The first step to setting a goal is to establish a personal mission statement. This is the guiding principle behind your entire life, and it should be based on what you want out of life. If you don’t have a personal mission statement, ask yourself what’s most important to you; this will help guide your goal setting process. Here are some examples of personal missions statements:

• I am determined to live each day to the best of my ability.

• I am a successful investor in the making.

• Every day I create success opportunities for myself by taking smart risks and being creative in everything I do.

Define Your Why

First, it starts with defining your why. Your why is the driving force behind what you’re doing, and it can help you stay motivated. Some examples of your why are “I want to work towards a career in public relations,” or “I want to be able to afford my dream house one day.” Once you have an idea of what your why is, try breaking down that goal into specific steps. In other words, if you want to be a public relations professional, define what exactly that means for your career and how that looks on paper. Next, think about the different types of people who might be interested in pursuing a career in public relations. You might target college students who are looking for something new after graduation or people who are more interested in the social side of the industry rather than publicity-driven events.

Take a Sabbatical Day Challenge

One of the most creative and insightful ways to challenge yourself is by taking a Sabbatical Day Challenge. This type of challenge allows you to take a break from your everyday life and focus on something different for one day. It can be as ambitious as attempting to start a new business or as simple as trying something completely different in your fields of expertise. Imagine if you could make new friends, get a tan in the sun, attend a networking event, or learn a language in just one day. Not only would this give you an opportunity to test out skills that may have been dormant in your life–it would also help you feel more fulfilled and less stressed while giving you time away from your favorite tasks and responsibilities. The key is picking one goal or many goals that will unleash your creativity without being too difficult or stressful to accomplish. You can even do two days if you’re feeling ambitious!

Organize a Free Dinner for Goal Setters

A goal setting example that may be good for you is organizing a free dinner for your closest friends and family. This idea can be useful to anyone looking to get their social circle involved with goal setting and accomplishing their goals too. This could be an amazing way to celebrate the beginning of a new year, as well as start the year off on the right foot. The best tip we have for this example is to make sure you communicate your idea in advance and decide who will provide what so you don’t end up with somebody taking care of all the cooking, cleaning, and other tasks. You also want to organize a time that is mutually convenient for everybody in case they don’t want to stay long or take care of other tasks afterward; it’s important that everyone feels included in this process!

Ask Yourself Uncomfortable Questions

Have you ever noticed that when you have a goal, it can sometimes be easy to get distracted by other things? Like, maybe you start thinking about how much money you could make if money were not an issue. Or how great it would be to live in another country. That’s because, as humans, we often allow our goals to take over our lives. And while these distractions may seem harmless and do help us accomplish the goals we want to achieve, they can actually take away from our overall happiness. So instead of taking on other tasks, try asking yourself some uncomfortable questions that may help you find your motivation again. Maybe ask yourself what is the most important thing for me in life? Or what am I really scared of? These questions will help you prioritize your goals and give them more weight than distractions that are easy to ignore.

Identify Someone Who Can Mentor You

If you don’t know where to start or what you should be focusing on, it can help to identify someone who is better at the activity than you. Look for a mentor who has expertise in the area you want to learn, and then get them involved in your goal setting process. They can share their wisdom with you, offer advice and guidance as you progress, and point out areas of improvement so that you can continue to grow. With this strategy, it doesn’t matter if it’s someone who is already successful in the field or just an expert in general because even an outsider will have valuable insight into the task at hand.

What Are Your Long-term Personal Goals?

In order to make progress, you first have to define exactly what you want to accomplish. That’s why it’s so important to set a long-term goal or personal mission statement. You may want to make this statement something that is very specific and not too general like “I want my life to be more fulfilled” or “I want my family and friends to love me the way I deserve.” A personal goal helps you stay on track by providing direction and motivation. It also gives your life meaning and purpose. These goals can provide an actionable framework for how you should spend your time each day, where you should focus your energy, and what actions will lead you closer to accomplishing them.

What Are Your Professional Goals?

What are your professional goals? These can be anything from reaching a certain level of income to improving your leadership skills. Your goals should challenge you and push you to grow in multiple facets of your life. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to goal setting, so find the one that is most beneficial for you and go from there.

What Are Your Short-term Goals?

If your short-term goals are to make friends, learn a new skill, or just get out more often, then you may need to try goal setting in a different way. Creating a personal board of goals with specific dates can help you stay focused on what’s important and avoid the temptation of getting stuck in the “what if” phase of goal setting.

Keep a Goal Journal

A goal journal is a unique way to develop goals. It helps you to brainstorm and visualize your dreams. When you use a goal journal, you can include anything from an image of yourself living in your dream home or career to a list of things that could get in the way of achieving that goal. You can use a goal journal for every aspect of your life including personal, professional, academic, and creative goals. For instance, you could create a family goal journal where you write down the date when your children will graduate college or make it to their wedding day.

5 Successful Business Ideas for Women Entrepreneurs

Posted on March 6, 2023March 7, 2023 by Orenda Rivers

I do not wish women to have power over men; but over themselves. – Mary Shelley

Starting a business can be a daunting prospect for anyone, but for women, it can be an especially intimidating task. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of five successful business ideas that are tailored specifically to female entrepreneurs.

First off, let’s look at some statistics about women-owned businesses:

As of 2021, there were an estimated 12.3 million women-owned businesses in the United States, employing 9 million people and generating $1.9 trillion in revenue.
Women-owned businesses make up 42% of all privately held firms, and are responsible for creating 1,821 new jobs per day.
Women of color are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the United States, with Black women-owned businesses growing by 164% since 2007, and Latinas by 87%.
In 2021, the industries with the highest concentration of women-owned firms were health care and social assistance (36%), professional, scientific, and technical services (20%), and retail trade (20%).
According to a report by American Express, the number of women-owned businesses has grown 58% since 2007, which is 1.5 times the national average for all businesses.
According to the National Women’s Business Council (NWBC), women-owned firms are more likely to be small businesses, with 92% having fewer than 10 employees.
According to a report by the National Women’s Business Council, women-owned firms are less likely to have employees than male-owned firms.
According to a report by the National Women’s Business Council, in 2019, the average annual revenue for women-owned firms was $250,000, compared to $2.5 million for male-owned firms.
According to a study by the Center for Women’s Business Research, women entrepreneurs are less likely to seek funding from venture capitalists and other institutional investors.

So, you will be in good company! Shall we start?

Freelancing

Freelancing is an attractive option for female entrepreneurs as it allows for flexible working hours and the ability to work from home. This makes it easier for mothers who are juggling childcare and other commitments. Freelancing also gives you the freedom to choose the projects you’re interested in and the clients you work with, allowing you to work on projects that you find meaningful. Additionally, freelancing allows you to set your own rates and hours, making it easier to manage your finances.

However, freelancing does come with some challenges. It can be difficult to find reliable clients and projects, and it can be difficult to stay motivated and focused on your projects. Additionally, there’s no guarantee of steady income, so you will need to be prepared to manage your finances in order to make ends meet. To help with these challenges, there are a number of resources available, including freelance job boards and websites, as well as local networking groups and seminars. With the right guidance and dedication, freelancing can be a great way for female entrepreneurs to gain the independence and flexibility they need to succeed.

These are the top sites for freelancing:

Upwork
Freelancer
Fiverr
Guru
PeoplePerHour
Toptal
SimplyHired
Task Rabbit
Indeed
FlexJobs
LinkedIn ProFinder
Remote.co
Glassdoor
We Work Remotely
Authentic Jobs

Franchise Ownership

Franchise ownership is a great option for women entrepreneurs who want to own a business without having to start from scratch. A franchise business is one in which an established business sells the right to use its trademarks, business systems, and processes to an independent owner. This can provide a great head start, as the franchisee can benefit from established brand recognition, existing customer relationships, and a proven business model.

There are many advantages to owning a franchise. Franchisees can take advantage of turnkey operations, meaning that they benefit from the parent company’s expertise and resources, helping to minimize risk. Franchisees also benefit from the marketing and advertising support of the parent company, as well as access to training and development programs. Finally, having multiple locations allows for more opportunities to increase business and attract new customers.

The downside to owning a franchise is that the costs can be high. In addition to the initial franchise fee and royalty payments, franchisees are responsible for day-to-day operations, as well as marketing and advertising costs. As a result, it can take a few years for the business to begin turning a profit. Additionally, franchise owners must adhere to the policies and procedures set forth by the franchisor in order to maintain their license.

Overall, franchise ownership can be a great option for female entrepreneurs looking to own a business. However, it’s important to thoroughly research the franchisor and the terms of the agreement before signing on the dotted line. With the right guidance and dedication, you can find success as a female entrepreneur.

Where to start:

Franchise Direct
Franchise Gator
FranNet
Franchise Opportunities
The Franchise Mall
Franchise Solutions
Entrepreneur Franchise 500
BizBuySell Franchise
Franchise Business Review
International Franchise Association (IFA)
Franchise Times
VetFran
The American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD)
Franchise Update Media
FranchiseWorks.com

Blogging

Blogging is a great way for women to start a business. Blogging is essentially a form of digital media, or online journaling, where entrepreneurs can express their thoughts, ideas, and insights. Blogging can help women build a loyal following and generate revenue through subscriptions, advertising, and sponsorships. Additionally, blogging provides an easy way for entrepreneurs to showcase their skills and share their knowledge with a larger audience.

There are a variety of resources available to help female entrepreneurs get started in the world of blogging. Platforms such as WordPress, Blogger, and Squarespace provide user-friendly interfaces that make it easy to create and manage a blog. Additionally, websites such as ProBlogger and Copyblogger offer helpful tutorials and advice on everything from design and content creation to marketing and monetization. Finally, there are many communities built around blogging where women can collaborate with other entrepreneurs and share tips and strategies for success.

Some of the best resources for learning blogging:

Blogging to Win by Melyssa Griffin
Blog by Number by Suzi Whitford
Problogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income by Darren Rowse
Blogging with WordPress by WordPress
Blogging Mastery by Jon Morrow
Blogging for Creatives by Holly Becker
The Blogger’s Blueprint by Ruth Soukup
Blogging to Build Your Business by Neil Patel
Blogging: The Ultimate Guide by Matthew Woodward
Blogging 101 by Blogging Wizard
Blogging to Grow Your Business by Michael Hyatt
Blogging for Profit by Pat Flynn
Blogging for Entrepreneurs by Lewis Howes
Blogging for Fun & Profit by Steve Scott
Blogging for Beginners by Blogging Wizard.

E-Commerce

E-commerce is an increasingly popular business model, particularly for female entrepreneurs looking for a flexible way to make money. This type of business allows you to connect with customers all over the world, and it can be done from anywhere with an internet connection. With e-commerce, you can sell products or services, offer subscription services, or create a marketplace for online transactions. You can also use e-commerce to offer informational products and services, such as digital books, video courses, and audio files.

The key to success with an e-commerce business is finding a niche and building a strong brand. You’ll need to create a website and an online presence, develop an effective marketing strategy, and provide excellent customer service. You’ll also need to stay up to date on the latest trends in e-commerce and use the right tools to manage inventory and shipping. There are many resources available to help you set up and grow your e-commerce business, such as Shopify and WooCommerce. With the right tools and dedication, you can find success with an e-commerce business as a female entrepreneur.

Below are some fantastic courses on Shopify and E-commerce:

Shopify Mastery by Evan Kimbrell
Shopify: Create Your Online Empire! by Neil Napier
Shopify Dropshipping: From Zero to Hero by Dan Dasilva
The Ultimate Shopify Course by Rob Percival
Shopify: Build Your Ecommerce Empire by Stefan James
Shopify: Start Your Own Online Business by Jerry Banfield
Shopify Blueprint: How to Build and Launch Your Online Store by Udemy
Shopify: The Complete Guide by Paul Mitchell
Shopify: Build a Successful Ecommerce Business by Daragh Walsh
Shopify Profit Mastery by Anthony Mastellone
Build Your Shopify E-commerce Website by Jose Portilla
Shopify Marketing: Drive Massive Traffic to Your Store by Neil Patel
Shopify: Build & Grow Your Online Business by Phil Ebiner
Shopify E-Commerce Mastery Course by Jason Miles
Shopify: Create Your Online Store by Joe Parys

Networking

Networking is a great way to build professional relationships that can help expand your business. Networking can take the form of in-person events, such as conferences and workshops, or virtual events, such as webinars and webcasts. Building a network of professionals who can act as mentors or partners can help you gain valuable insight into your industry and increase your chances of success. Networking also allows you to meet potential customers, vendors, and investors, as well as build relationships with other entrepreneurs who can provide advice and support.

Networking can be intimidating at first, but there are resources available to help you become an effective networker. Attending events, such as industry conferences and trade shows, is a great way to meet potential customers and partners. Participating in online communities and social media networks can also help you build relationships and create visibility for your business. Additionally, joining a professional organization or industry association can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and access to resources that can help you succeed as a business owner. With the right guidance and dedication, networking can be a powerful tool for female entrepreneurs.

Resources and Guidance for Female Entrepreneurs

There are plenty of resources available for female entrepreneurs. These can include access to mentors, networking events, and business training workshops. Mentors can provide invaluable advice on how to get your business off the ground, while networking events can help you make the connections necessary to grow your business. Business training workshops are great for brushing up on skills such as accounting and marketing, which can be essential for the success of your business.

National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
The National Women’s Business Council (NWBC)
The Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Women’s Business Ownership
Women’s Business Center
American Express OPEN for Women
The Center for Women’s Business Research
The National Women’s Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC)
The Women’s Venture Capital Fund
The National Association of Female Executives (NAFE)
The Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV)
The Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI)
The Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI)
The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC)
The Female Founders Alliance (FFA)

These resources provide information, training, networking, and funding opportunities for female entrepreneurs. They offer guidance on starting and growing a business, as well as connecting entrepreneurs with mentors and other resources. Some resources are focused on specific types of businesses or industries, while others are more general in nature.

In addition to these resources, female entrepreneurs can also benefit from online communities, such as blogs and forums. These can provide an invaluable source of knowledge and encouragement. Women’s business associations can also be a great resource, offering advice, networking opportunities, and a supportive community of like-minded businesswomen.

Whether you’re just getting started or have been running a business for a while, having access to the right resources and guidance can make all the difference. With the right motivation and dedication, any female entrepreneur can find success. With the right resources and guidance, you can get the support you need to make your business dream a reality. Are you itching to start your dream business today?

A choice to be sane

Posted on March 6, 2023April 12, 2023 by Yuanye

Earthly Sanity

When I first read Eckhart Tolle referring to the fact that there is so much insanity in humanity’s behaviors, I thought, “Hmm, insanity! That’s a strong word.”

Eckhart was referring to the massacres of entire ethnic groups, the hunger-plagued countries and continents, the abuse of nature and fellow Earth inhabitants, that are still going on to this day. Yes, these are insane deeds.

Our creaturehood does not have to play out in such an ugly way. Imbued in any creaturehood, there is celebration and creation; there is deep reverence and awe for nature and life.

Personal Sanity

Then a few years later, my teacher Barbara Emrys mentioned in a sitting, “Yes, it will come to this point. You are the most sober, awake person in a drunken party. Would you rather be drunk?”

Barbara was likening the unconscious state of living to the drunken state, giving oneself a life devoid of self-love, devoid of recognition of our innate grandness that is one with life itself; the fact that we are the life force itself that animates a flesh body, that we alone have the power to give this human being love and joy.

Living amidst drunken, insane people who have no ability to choose true goodness for themselves, who nevertheless are doing their best, choosing to become wakeful, again and again, is sanity.

“Happiness is sanity. Suffering is insanity.”
– Barbara Emrys

******
One warm, bright summer noon, a few of us walked silently through a courtyard to a restaurant after the class with Barbara, after our revolting but liberating class, to say the least. Golden sunshine graciously splashed onto the ground. I had to tell her this, so I said to my teacher, “I feel so sober.”

She looked at me, and looked to the front of us, and hugged me and said, “Good, honey, good.” I knew she was happy to have a student that began to get it deeply.

Furthermore, the student aspires to live it out deeply in each fiber of her being.

****
Choose to live wakefully.

Open your eyes, my dear friend. And see. And see.