Susan Call's Blog, page 2

The Best Things My Dad Taught Me

If you’ve been on Facebook or Instagram today, you know it’s not just another Sunday. Tributes, pictures and heartwarming thoughts have filled our pages, interrupting vacation and graduation pictures or opinions on current events. For weeks leading up to today, stores warred for our attention with sales for the perfect gift ideas for our dads. It’s a great day for cookouts and celebrations to honor all dads do and for who they are.

If you’re like me, and you’ve had a special dad but he’s no longer here, today is bittersweet. It’s easy to miss him all the more with all of the dad-focus of today.  This year is my fifth Father’s Day without my amazing dad. Rather than focus on him not being here, I took a moment to reflect on some of the incredible wisdom he’s left behind.

1. Choose the high road.

There will be people who insult you or are just plain mean. Dad demonstrated that their actions speak to their character. And, your actions speaks to yours. Taking the high road means knowing when to walk away, disengage, or move on, and equally when to respectfully stand your ground. It’s often not the easiest path to take, but it’s the right one.

2. Smile and laugh often.

I’ve heard it said that smiling impacts your attitude and laughing increases your lifespan. My dad’s smile and humor were both contagious. He worked hard but found ways to play hard too. Don’t get caught working so hard in life that you forget to smile and laugh. It does your soul good!

3. Nurture a growth mindset.

The attitude my dad conveyed over the years was to never top learning. Both he and my mom went back for additional degrees or took classes to keep growing. Dad never looked at a degree as having arrived at a level of learning but instead as a doorway to new opportunities to grow.

4. Share your gifts and talents.

The special talents you have were meant to share. Brighten the days of those you care about by finding ways to share the skills you’ve been blessed with. My dad was a great craftsman. From the desk where I’m writing this, I need only look to my left to see a product of his handiwork. I’m thankful for the many things that adorn my home that came from his workshop. You don’t have to make something physical to share… maybe you sing, or play an instrument, paint or craft. Be uniquely you and share your talents!

5. Be a person of integrity.

Be the same person in public that you are behind closed doors. Don’t hide behind a façade or mask around people but then act completely differently at home or when you’re alone. Choosing to be a person of integrity means being authentic and genuine, even when it might feel vulnerable.

6. Be compassionate.

Simply put, my dad would say “be kind.” Every day we all have an opportunity to be kind. We can choose to make the world a better place by caring about those in need, or those around us. My dad found countless opportunities to display compassion out loud. One of the many ways he did this was providing transportation to families with a sick child to the children’s hospital several hours away. His generosity in time meant the parents didn’t have to think about the travels while they dealt with the medical challenges of their child. Every day, find a way to be kind, make a different, and be the good. The world needs more of it!

7. Feed your faith.

My dad stood strong through the storms of life much like a strong oak tree. His roots were firmly planted in his faith. I remember sitting in the driveway with dad on countless Sundays waiting for the rest of the family. He and I were the two early ones in a bunch of just-on-time family members. Dad served and volunteered and lived a life evident that his faith was important to him. If you want to weather the storms of life, feed your faith so that you too can stand strong.

8. Be present.

Be where you are with who you are there with. No matter if dad was tearing up the dance floor with my mom or fishing with me, he was present. Each year the world gets nosier. Distractions war to rob us of special moments. Put down your phone. Sign off of email. Sit on the floor with a child or go for a walk with a friend. Choose to embrace the moments life brings your way and choose to be present. I’m forever grateful that was my dad’s philosophy!

9. Leave a legacy.

Leave the world a better place because you traveled this way. In dad’s final days, I remember sitting on the floor next to his bed as we spoke. The pressing question he had for me as he grew increasingly frail was did he leave a legacy? I didn’t have to dig deep or search my memory for examples, they flowed with ease. Dad’s impact is etched on the lives of anyone who met him. His giving attitude and compassion truly made a difference. When I write, I’m inspired by the life my dad lived. We all have the ability to weave together a better world with the choices we make each day. Won’t you choose to leave the world a better place too?

It’s your turn:

While I cherish the skills my dad taught me, the wisdom he shared is tucked even deeper in my heart. My dad taught me many things – how to fish, how to drive, and the difference between a philips head and a flat head screwdriver. He gave me an appreciation for Ritz crackers and peanut butter. But most of all he’s impacted me with his life-demonstrating tidbits of wisdom.

Have these things that my dad taught me touched you? If so, comment and let me know. It would warm my heart to know my dad’s legacy touched you too. And, how about you? What are the best things your dad taught you? Comment and let me know what your dad taught you.

Wishing all of the dad’s out there a very Happy Father’s Day. If you are blessed to be spending time your dad today, hug him a little closer. The time you have together is a gift!

Until next time friends, be blessed!

You might also enjoy:

Dad to the Rescue! A Father’s Day Story to Feed Your Faith
5 Ways to Make the Most of Today

And, if you could use some daily encouragement, why not join me on social media:

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The post The Best Things My Dad Taught Me appeared first on Susan Call.

How to Find Happiness with Broken Expectations

It was supposed to be a nice day. No, the weatherman didn’t get it wrong. He called for rain. But, rain wasn’t in my plan. The script I wrote called for something different. Have you ever had it rain on your plans ore expectations fall short? We’ve got “it” all mapped out. We know when and how we want a day, or an event, or our journey to unfold. And then… a proverbial rain cloud strikes.

For me, today it wasn’t an analogy but an actual rain cloud. My team from work planned a nice day volunteering at the coast cleaning up trash and debris from the rocky coast and beach. We picked the date weeks ago. In our minds, we had an image of how today was supposed to unfold. Volunteering in raincoats with rain-soaked shoes wasn’t what we had in mind. But as the day played out I found wisdom that we can apply to our everyday lives as we check our expectations against our realities.

Remember your why.

There will be times in life when the rain clouds roll in. We may be so consumed with the challenges that it feels like our shoes slosh with the muck that comes our way. Instead of focusing on the image from our expectations, we need to continue to be motivated by our why. Today our why was to leave the coast cleaner than it was and protect wild life. Protecting the fish or seals or other creatures that could be impacted by the debris if it were to wash back out into the water was our why. When life’s rain clouds try to distract you, remember your motivation or your purpose and press on.

Choose to do the right thing anyways.

It’s easy to want to curl up when life pushes rain clouds into our paths. But, we need to do the right thing, even when we might not feel like it. Today it would have been nice to stay dry but, we had a task before us that called us to get a little wet. Are there times when you need to have a tough conversation, or step out of your comfort zone to do the right thing? Are there times when you know you need to get a little messy to make a difference? Don’t let a little “muck” in your path keep you from doing the right thing. Get wet and do it any ways!

Keep your attitude in check.

Unmet expectations have a way of influencing our attitude if we’re not careful. When life doesn’t follow the script you’ve mapped out, keep an eye on your attitude. Are you able to adapt and adjust? Or do you allow bitterness to set in. One challenging day doesn’t make a ruined life. A rain cloud on our journey doesn’t mean we’ll never accomplish what we’d hope or that we won’t get where we’d like to go.  If you’re attitude heads south when your expectations aren’t met, vent a little, let go, then move on. You can pass though the feeling of disappointment but don’t set up camp there.

Enjoy where you are and who you’re with.

It’s far too easy in life to get caught up with what we wish were true or where we wish we’d be. We can focus in the future and miss the present. Or, we can focus on tasks and miss the opportunity to enjoy relationships. Where ever life has you, and regardless if you’re currently facing a rain cloud or a clear season, enjoy where you are and who you’re with.

By the time we finished our beach clean-up, our small group had collected 50lbs of trash. Our haul included a variety from balloons to plastic bags and broken lobster traps to fishing line. We left the coast better than we found it and enjoyed ourselves despite the rain. Our group grabbed a great seafood lunch and enjoyed some ice cream after the clouds broke. And, despite our initial disappointment in the weather when we arrived, we all agreed… the rain didn’t really bother us. I guess when you choose to do the right thing, you don’t really mind getting a little wet.

It’s your turn.

Have you ever had your expectations fall short of what you planned? Are you like me and find a way to map out exactly what you’d like to happen but find life doesn’t always follow your script? I’d love to hear how you adapt and keep going. And, if these bits of wisdom encouraged you, why not click to share. And, if you’re looking for some daily encouragement, why not like my facebook page or join me on Instagram.

Until next time friends, be blessed!

My beach clean up day:

The post How to Find Happiness with Broken Expectations appeared first on Susan Call.

Do These 5 Things if You Want to Increase Your Personal Growth

An unexpected lesson in personal growth

I recently stumbled upon a new TV show and became instantly intrigued. The show is Songland. Have you heard of it?

Four song writers were invited to perform an original work for three music producers and John Legend. The show began with each artist singing there song. As soon as each performed, the professionals offered insight, suggested changes, and even played variations on a keyboard or guitar to bring life to their feedback. It was quite inspirational to say the least! After their initial performance and collaboration time was done, three were selected to continue to the next stage.

Each of the remaining artists was paired with a music producer to collaborate in greater detail. Later the song writers performed a more developed version of their original song. Ultimately one was named the winner which meant there song was selected to be recorded by John Legend. The upbeat positive show not only entertained me but illustrated five things we can all do to increase our personal growth.

Be willing to be vulnerable.

Taking a chance to “put ourselves out there” in an area that we’re looking to develop can feel very risky. Fear can paralyze us before we take the first step or utter the first word. But if we want feedback that is necessary for growth, we need to be willing to be vulnerable. For the contestants, the risk paid off. Their talents were showcased and for one lucky artist, their song was recorded by John Legend.

Seek out opportunities to learn.

No matter what areas of our lives we seek personal growth, there are others who have more experience than we do. Seek out opportunities to build upon what you know or to further develop a talent or skill. There are many ways you can do this. Attend a conference, workshop, or webinar. Find a great podcast to listen to on your commute. Or, consider finding a mentor or mastermind group. Others have experience that can help us grow. Take advantage of the resources around you.

Be willing to adapt, change, or grow your vision.

Sometimes we plant a seed of a dream with an expectation of exactly what the fruit should look like. There may be times that we need to be willing to adapt our vision based on feedback or opportunities. With the song writers, they likely felt that there song was “done” when they first performed it. Yet when they collaborated with the experts, they fine-tuned the lyrics or musical arrangements and ended up with a better finished product. Just like a good author needs an editor, we can often benefit when we’re willing to adapt based on feedback. As a result, we can strengthen the impact of our efforts.

Celebrate progress, not arrival.

On the show, there was only one artist who “won” yet, in reality there were four winners in the competition. Each of the artists learned, developed and grew as a result of participating. The collaboration was rich and meaningful. In life, we need to celebrate our progress. Recognize the significance in the hard steps or the little steps that produce growth. Those are victory moments worthy of celebrating. Sometimes you need to queue the confetti cannon and let the momentary achievement be the wind in your sails.

Choose who you collaborate with carefully.

The artists knew the professionals who sat just a few feet away were there to mentor and collaborate. They shared a vision. In life we often encounter people who don’t understand the dream we have or the passion we have for a purpose that we know we’re meant for. Be careful who you choose to share your dream with. Some will discourage you or doubt your vision. Others may distract you or pull you off of your path. Seek out trustworthy likeminded individuals who understand where you’re going. I’ve heard it said “never ask directions from someone who hasn’t been where you going.”

It’s your turn:

Would you have the courage to share something you created with experts the way the artists on the show did? Or, would you be intimidated? When we tap into a growth mindset, we can take calculated risks so that we can increase our impact. Which of these 5 did you need to hear most? Click to comment I’d love to hear from you. And, if you haven’t checked out Songland, check it out and then consider how their experience can inspire you to pursue your own growth.

If you were encouraged by this post, why not take a moment and enter your email box below. You’ll get notified when new posts are available. And, be sure to click to share on your favorite social media icon to share this encouragement with your friends.

Until next time friends, be blessed!

You might also enjoy:

The Surprising Secrets To Personal Growth I Found Pulling Weeds
5 Powerful Reasons You Should Prune Your Life
How to Have A Better Week

The post Do These 5 Things if You Want to Increase Your Personal Growth appeared first on Susan Call.

How Recognizing Static Can Strengthen Your Faith

A blast from the past

Driving through the Pocono Mountains on a recent trip, I suddenly realized how things have changed over the years. At the risk of aging myself, I remember needing to find a new radio station on the other side of nearly every hill. Long car rides through unfamiliar areas meant trying to find another good radio station when the last one became consumed with fuzz.

More than once I remember the inconvenience of growing static right in the middle of a good song. Not wanting to give up on a song I was enjoying, I’d focus on the words, straining to hear the lyrics through the increasing fuzz. Sometimes I was amazed how well I could tune out the rather loud, distracting crackles and still hear the words. Despite the annoying radio static, I could still hear and sing to my favorite songs as the station faded away.

Coping with “static”

Thinking about my old road trips, I realized there’s a powerful lesson in radio static. When I experienced it, I had a choice to focus my attention on the lyrics or the fuzz. When the crackles distracted me from the content, I’d change my station.  But other times I focused intently on the lyrics and continue to hear the words despite the growing distraction.

Isn’t that exactly what our lives are like? Every day we choose what we’ll listen to. Some days the static of the world can cause us to listen to the wrong things. Do we let it cause us to lose our listening ear focused on God’s quiet whisper?

When the world tries to give you an unwelcome dose of discouragement, see it as static, pure static. Give it the same time, energy, and consideration as you would annoying radio static that’s trying to interrupt your favorite song. You would never turn on a station that is so faint it’s only fuzz, so why listen to noise that the world shouts that contradict what God’s word says?

Examples of static and how to replace it:



When the world says this, treat it as static:
 Replace it with truth:


It’s hopeless.
Have hope. God has a plan for you. Jeremiah 29:11


You’re unwanted, unloved, or not worthy.
I am worthy because I have been chosen. Colossians 3:12


You are weak.
I am strong. Philippians 4:13


You’re stuck.
I am delivered. Colossians 1:13


You’re condemned.
I am forgiven. Colossians 1:13-14


You’re a loser.
I am victorious. 1 Corinthians 15:57


No one cares about you.
I am loved. Romans 5:8


You don’t have a purpose.
I am called. 2 Timothy 1:9

 

It’s your turn:

Has it been a while since you’ve heard radio static on a road trip? Can you relate to straining to hear the lyrics as the distractions build? I hope this analogy has encouraged you for the next time life tries to distract you with “noise.”

If that has hit home for you, I’d love to hear from you. Click to comment and join the conversation. And, if it’s encouraged you, why not click to share and encourage someone else too?

Until next time friends, be blessed!

 

The post How Recognizing Static Can Strengthen Your Faith appeared first on Susan Call.

6 Things Every New Graduate Should Know

It’s the time of year for the familiar cords of Pomp and Circumstance. It’s a bit of a rite of passage that has proud parents across the country straining to find their child in a sea of caps and gowns. Working on a college campus, it’s one of the most exciting times of the year. Feeling the anticipation and excitement of the soon-to-be graduates always causes me to become a bit reflective. If I could time travel back to my own commencement, what would I say to the younger me?

1. Do your best no matter what your job.

Your current job is likely not your dream job but, it might be a critical step on the path to that dream job of yours. Do your best, be respectful, and dependable, always. Treat every job as though your dream job depends upon it. People notice, doors open and, future opportunities come out of today’s efforts. Take for example Xerox’s CEO Ursula Burns, she started out as an intern. Her dedication and hard work paved her path taking her from intern to CEO.

2. Don’t live life on a predetermined timeline.

You don’t need to be married by 30 and have children by 35 or any other age. You may have friends that get married or have kids long before you. It’s ok! It is far better to wait for the right relationship than to get married, or choose other life steps because you think it’s “time.” Don’t live the life you think you are “supposed to live” rather truly live your life.Never stop learning.

3. Learning doesn’t stop once you’ve gotten your diploma. 

To get the most out of life, continue to learn and grow at all ages. Take advantage of professional development opportunities at your work. Explore new hobbies outside of work. And, don’t be afraid to try new things.

4. The best lessons and the best opportunities are often hidden in “failures.”

Disappointments will be part of your journey. You can allow them to break you or you can allow them to propel you. The choice is yours. When something doesn’t turn out the way you wish it had, step back and see how you can learn from it or how it might launch you on a better path. I was once laid off from a job I loved after 17 years. Instead of allowing it to devastate me, I went back to college, got my master’s degree, published a book, and changed careers. My lost job opened a new door with fabulous opportunities I’d never trade!

5. Seek feedback from trusted or respected sources.

Proactively ask “What can I do to improve?” or “How could I do this differently to get an even better result?” Opening communications for feedback will help you become a better version of you. You will encounter people who know more than you. Tap their knowledge so that you can grow. The future you will be glad you did. 

6. Find something to be grateful about every single day.

Even on your worst day, you have something to be grateful for. Before your head hits the pillow at night, recall three things you are thankful for that day. In research studies, psychologist have found participants who find three things to be thankful for each day have an immediate increase in happiness measures. Don’t you want to be happier? Take time to be thankful. It works!

It’s your turn:

I can’t time travel back to encourage younger me but, I can continue to share the lessons I’ve learned over the years. I’m happy to say that I’ve become a lifelong learner and I do work to be grateful even on the days when it feels hardest to do. I refuse to let a bad five minutes ruin an entire day, and to interpret a bad day to mean the week, year, or my life is awful – because it’s not! Enjoy life. Live it! Celebrate your milestones and victories. And, if you’ve just graduated, Congratulations!!

If you like me have a few years between you and your commencement, what wisdom would you share with younger you? What do you wish you would have knows? Click to comment and share wisdom to the younger you. Or, let me know which of these six hit home for you. I’d love to hear from you.

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Until next time friends, be blessed!

The post 6 Things Every New Graduate Should Know appeared first on Susan Call.

5 Powerful Reasons You Should Prune Your Life

Have you ever needed to say ‘no’ to something you really wanted to say ‘yes’ to? Last week I struggled with that very thing. An unexpected opportunity came my way that would have allowed me to be more involved with a group that I typically only have the chance to work with once a year.

But nearly as soon as I had received the offer, I realized that I needed to say ‘no.’ As much as I love the team and their mission, this particular role would take more capacity than I have to give right now. Responding with ‘no thank you’ was harder than I anticipated. Like a giddy fifth grader who gets picked for a team on the playground, I felt “wanted” or even valued. But deep inside my heart, I knew I needed to still needed to say no.

The timing of the offer came about the same time spring made an attempted arrival in the north east. Spending some time on a recent Saturday doing yard work, I was impacted by the simple yet necessary task of pruning our peach tree. The poignant lessons tucked in the effort uncovered 5 powerful reasons we should all consider pruning not just our tress but our lives.

1. Pruning reveals new growth.

Before our peach tree was covered with beautiful pink blossoms, you couldn’t see much change since last season from a distance. It wasn’t until we began the effort of trimming back the branches that we discovered a significant amount of new growth. Once we cut back the branches and drug away the clippings, we couldn’t miss the new growth. In our lives, sometimes it’s only after we cut back or say no -even when we wish it were a yes, that we can discover fresh new growth that wasn’t visible before.

2. Pruning focuses energy.

When a tree or plant is trimmed back, more nutrients can be sent to the remaining branches. In our lives, when we prune back our activities, we focus our priorities and energy to the areas that remain. If we over commit, we spread ourselves to thin and don’t have enough hours in the day or energy in our tanks to get it all done. If you’re feeling stretched thin, it might be a good time to take a step back and see if something needs to be cut back.

3. Pruning prepares for a better harvest.

Over the years, we’ve learned that when we prune our peach tree, we have better harvest. It’s the same in our lives. When we refuse to let ourselves get spread too thin, the efforts where we really invest our time and energy yield a better harvest. Lisa Terkeurst calls it the “Best Yes.” Saying yes to the best things, may require we say not to some things that seem pretty good but in reality dilute our efforts. When you focus on your priorities and let go of distractions, you can improve your yield and influence your harvest.

4. Effective pruning requires seeing situations from different perspectives.

As we pruned our tree, we needed to periodically step back and reassess the task at hand. Looking at the tree from different angles revealed new places that needed trimming. In our lives we need to do the same. Taking a step back can help us see our situation in a new light and help us to see the work in front of us more clearly. There may be times in life that we’re too close to see what’s in front of us clearly. In those times it can be helpful to ask a trusted friend to help us see our blind spots or areas we might miss on our own. Be open to feedback from perspectives that can help you continue to grow. And, of course, prayer is a very effective way to ask for insight and perspective that is beyond what we can see on our own.

5. Pruning indicates a change of seasons.

In life the thought of “cutting back” or pruning typically doesn’t sound inviting. Feeling as though we need to let go of something, even if we know the benefits of doing so, can be challenging. When you’re faced with needing to let go or say no, remind yourself that pruning is part of ushering a new season of growth. Focus on the positive change you’re facilitating to empower you to continue moving forward while isolating against becoming stagnant. Celebrate your change of seasons when you find yourself pruning in life. It means the winter is coming to an end and new growth is on its way.

It’s your turn:

Whether you’re an avid gardener or you just get by, the symbolism of pruning can provide valuable insight into our own journeys. Are you in a season where you need to trim back and focus your resources? Are you currently leaning into a new season with expected anticipation? Click to comment and let me know if this post encouraged you. I’d love to hear from you. And when saying no or letting go feels difficult, remind yourself that pruning facilitates future growth.

If you’ve been encourage, why not click to share? And if you haven’t yet signed up so that you don’t miss the next encouraging post, click below and we’ll stay connected.

Until next time friend, be blessed!

You might also enjoy:

What Tidying Up Taught Me About Perspective
3 Lies You Need To Stop Believing
What You Need To Remember When Life Feels Like A Marathon

 

The post 5 Powerful Reasons You Should Prune Your Life appeared first on Susan Call.

5 Powerful Life Tips I Found Floating In A Pod Of Water

Last week I took a chance and tried something new – a float pod. Have you ever heard of floating? The pods which look like there out of the future provide a sensory deprivation experience to allow for relaxation while quieting the world around you. Imagine spending an hour floating on water so dense that you couldn’t sink if you tried. I hoped it would be a fun new way to relax but I didn’t expect the self-awareness and life lessons that came with the experience.

5 Powerful Life Tips I Found Floating:
1. Quieting our internal chatter takes conscious effort.

Have you ever noticed that our internal chatter runs with ease almost as though on autopilot? Floating in the pod I was surprised by how many times my mind went to my to-do list, or to recent conversations, or to what I planned to do later in the day. Occasionally my mind tried to drift to a project at work as well as add items to my shopping list. In the beginning I had to consciously grab the thoughts and let them go. Without checking my thoughts, they would have continued to run non-stop during my float time.

When we choose to let ourselves really rest or “just be” by quieting both the world around us and our thoughts within, we allow ourselves the margin necessary to recharge. If you’ve ever had your mind wonder while you were praying, talking to someone, or watching a show, you know how quickly autopilot tries to cause your mind to race. Scriptures says “Be still and know.” When was the last time you allowed yourself to truly be still? If it’s been a while, find time today or this week to let your mind be stilled along with the busy world around you. It’s truly a refreshing exercise!

2. Letting go is a choice.

Laying back in the water, I quickly felt tension in my shoulders and neck. Without even thinking about what I was doing, I was controlling how my head and shoulders impacted the water. I consciously thought through relaxing each part of me. As the muscles relaxed in my arms and legs, they were supported by the water. It took several minutes of consciously focusing on just simply breathing while I let go of control so that my neck and head could be free to float. That’s when I realized that what you don’t let go of can’t be supported.

Who else carries and manages what could benefit from support outside of you? Support could be right there, waiting for you to let go… support from family, friends, and especially from God. He already knows what you’re clenching in your fist that’s robbing you of your peace, joy, or even hope. One of the great benefits of floating is it helps you realize where you’re holding on to stress. If you close your eyes and quiet yourself for a moment,  where are you holding on to stress? What are you holding on to? Inhale deeply, exhale even deeper. Uncurl your fingers, open your heart and let go. If letting go feels scary, pray for the courage to really let go.

 3. Growth sometimes is just one step outside of our comfort zone.

Before my float time, I was instructed how to choose my environment. I could listen to ambient music and could leave the light in the pod on or off. When I first had made my appointment I remember thinking I couldn’t imagine even closing the pod door. The idea of choosing to turn off the music or the light seemed inconceivable. But, when I arrived, closing the pod was easy. Then much to my surprise, sometime into my float, I decided to turn both the music and the light off. The only sound I could hear was my own breathing.

The experience was freeing! Yet, had I not pushed myself just one step forward, I would have never had the experience. Often life gives us opportunities to experience something new or to grow. We need to choose to take the step beyond our comfort zone to experience what waits for us there. Is there an area that you’ve been feeling the nudge to step forward? Why not challenge yourself and take the next step?

4. What we soak in sticks to us.

While in the water, I wasn’t aware of the salinity of the water with the exception of the ease of floating. The water felt just like ‘regular’ water. It wasn’t until I rinsed off and dried my hair that I was reminded how we are impacted by our environment. What we float in, what we marinate in, impacts us if we don’t deal with it. When I rinsed in the shower after my float, I thought I had fully rinsed my hair. But once I began to dry my hair, I quickly I realized my mistake. The drier my hair got, the crunchier and stiffer it became. Not too different than us in life, if left unchecked, the environment and elements we “soak” in every day can leave us crunchy and stiff. Are you letting things stick to you that need to be rinsed off and left behind? Be careful what you let your heart and mind marinate in.

5. When our time is up, we can’t change how we spent it.

A gentle stream of bubbles circulated into the pod to let me know that my float time was over. As I stepped out of the pod I was thankful that I chose to let go of any weariness or stress and fully embrace relaxing. I was thrilled that I was able to turn off the music and the light allowing the world to fall completely silent. But, I also realized that my time in the pod was one hour regardless of how I chose to spend it. My mindset didn’t influence the time but it impacted my experience.

So too is the case for life. Every day we have exactly 24 hours. We don’t know how much time we have left in our lives only that our time is limited. Our mindset and our attitude won’t change the amount of time we have left, but it will impact how we experience the time we do have. If you like me would work to make the most of an hour that you’ve paid for an experience, how much more should you consider how you spend the gift of time today? Do you have adjustments to make?

It’s your turn:

My experience floating was all about putting self-care higher on my list. To be the best version of me, I’ve realized  that I need to take care of me. How do you slow down and promote your own self care? What works best for you? I noticed that in the past few days since my float experience, I’ve had more energy, less stress, and more creativity. Additionally my quiet time has been enriched because my mind isn’t as cluttered. Click to comment and share how you practice self care. And, if one of these five aha’s hits home, be sure to share which one you needed to hear this week.

If you’ve been encouraged by this post, why not click to share. Someone you know may need a reminder this week to take better care of themselves or may need to hear these five life tips.

Until next time friend, be blessed!

You may also enjoy:

9 Things You Should Stop doing
The Surprising Thing I Overheard at the Airport
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5 Things To Do When You Feel Like You’re Not Enough

It’s a battle too many of us fight quietly on the inside. We don’t come up with a catchy social media meme announcing its how we’re feeling… but sometimes, many of us, probably most of us fight the battle of feeling like we’re enough.

It’s that sinking feeling that makes you want to retreat to the couch with Ben and Jerry’s and Netflix, or at least retreat to the sidelines and watch everyone else succeed. Just one quick look on social media and we’re convinced that everyone else has got it all together. Or, maybe you’ve suddenly realized it’s the end of April and you’re no closer to the goals you set for New Year’s than you were on January 1st. If you’re struggling with feeling like you’re enough or that you’re good enough, you need to do these five things…

1. Check your sources.

If the past few years have taught us anything it’s that we need to check our sources. When I see a story shared online, I’m quick to research if it’s an urban legend or if it’s really true. If we would do that for stories we read that don’t even have to do with us, why wouldn’t we do the same when we’ve allowed something to feed our opinion about ourselves? Who or what has fed the idea that you’re not enough? Is it insecurity because you’ve compared yourself to people who are in a different season than you are? Or, is it because someone has sewn seeds of doubt that you’re continuing to water? Be careful which sources you allow to speak to your sense of value.

2. Challenge your assumptions.

It’s far too easy to measure ourselves by external numbers that aren’t the most important measures. We’re more than a number on the scale, more than the amount in your bank account, more than the ranking we got on our last performance review at work, more than the number of friends on social media, and far more than the number of likes of our last post. Stop measuring you’re value or your impact by numbers the world tells you are important. Instead take a step back and ask yourself what is one thing you’re doing well. Write it down or say it out loud and let that one thing be a seed that helps you identify a few of your strengths to shut down the lies “not enough” tries to tell you.

3. Change your dialog.

Stop feeding the not enough monster. Instead, remind yourself of who you are and how far you’ve come. No offence, but if God says you’re enough, who are you to say you aren’t? I’ve been known to sing loudly to Who You Say I Am to remind myself who I am on occasion. If for example, God’s calling you to write, then write. Do your best, learn and grow. Whatever it is that he’s calling you to, do it to the best of your ability and seek to build on what you know.  Remind yourself why you do what you do and keep doing it. The enemy can’t steel your calling but if he can get you to quit because you think you’re not enough, you’ve given him a victory that was his to lose.

4. Add to your team.

Often when we feel like we’re lacking in an area or that we’re not good enough, insecurity whispers retreat. But that’s the opposite of what we need to do. When standing strong or growing feels difficult, add a few trusted friends or resources to your team. Reach out to someone you trust and let them know what you’re struggling with. Ask them for support as you strengthen your courage to continue. Find a prayer partner or a mentor. And, if you’re feeling like you aren’t enough in an area that’s a skill, look for opportunities to learn or grow. For example if you’re feeling called to write a book but you don’t feel strong enough as a writer, find a workshop or writer’s conference to attend. When you add to your team, you’ll find support and learn from others farther along in their journey.

5. Do what’s next.

Identify one thing you need to do and do it. Too often when we feel like we’re not enough, we see the marathon instead of the steps. Stop staring out the entirety of the journey you need to travel and focus on the very next step. Chances are you have what you need to make that step. You don’t need to worry about the hurdles that aren’t in front of you yet. When you reach them, you will have the resources and strength to overcome them.

It’s your turn.

Most people have moments when they feel like they’re not enough or they’re not good enough at something. Allow you’re self to process the feeling without setting up a permanent address there. And, the next time you find yourself struggling with feeling like you’re enough, use these five things as your go-to list to help you get back on track.

Encouraged by this post? Click to comment and let me know. And, why not click to share to encourage your friends. You’re sharing might just help them right where they are.

You might also enjoy:

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Is your group looking for a speaker for an upcoming event? I’m currently booking through the end of the year and would love to join you. Drop me a note and we can check your needs and my availability.

The post 5 Things To Do When You Feel Like You’re Not Enough appeared first on Susan Call.

What You Need To Remember When Life Feels Like A Marathon

Today wasn’t just another Monday in the Boston area. It was Marathon Monday. As I drove to work in the rain, I thought about the dedicated runners braving the weather to face the grueling course. While I’ve never been a runner, I applaud their dedication both in the months leading up to the race as well as the incredible effort they put forth today.

Lately I’ve been reminded that sometimes life feels a lot like a marathon. If life has been challenging you too, I hope this list encourages you.

6 things we all need to remember when life feels like a marathon.
1. The race is intentional.

It would be extremely unlikely to accidentally run a marathon. While I once heard a story of someone who intended to run a half marathon but made a mistake and ended up on the full marathon route, I think we can all agree, runners intentionally pursue marathons. Signing up, training, creating a race day plan are all intentional efforts that propel the runner to the finish line.

In life, we need to be intentional about the choices we make, the goals we pursue, and ultimately the life we live. Life is an intentional race. Don’t allow your journey to unfold accidentally like the runner on the wrong course. Choose your focus and be intentional.

2. Self-talk is fuel.

Let’s face it, a 26 mile marathon gives a runner a lot of thinking time. What a racer says to themselves matters. In a race such as the Boston Marathon, hills late in the course can torment weary runners. During this section it’s important for them to stay focused and continue to encourage themselves.

If you could encourage a runner on the infamous Heartbreak Hill, you’d tell them they’re almost there. You’d remind them to dig deep because there’s not that much more to go. The same way you’d encourage a runner is the same way you need to encourage yourself when life feels all uphill or gives you a Heartbreak Hill of your own to deal with. Keep going. It will get better. Don’t stop here! What you say to yourself will be fuel that propels you or an anchor that holds you back. Choose words carefully – especially the ones no one else knows you say to yourself.

3. Pain is temporary.

Marathon runners do not escape preparation, training, and race day pain free. Blisters, pulled muscles, spasms, and other injuries happen. From the most novice runners to the elite champions, pain will be part of the journey. Runners push through the pain because they know it’s temporary.

In life, we’ll deal with aches and pains of our own. Whether they’re physical, emotional, or spiritual, we will not escape the journey of life pain free. But, just like a runner knows the pain is temporary, we must remind ourselves that this too shall pass.

4. Recovery is part of the race.

Rest and recovery are part of a runner’s journey. After race day comes recuperation. Life is no different. We run our daily race and need to remember that some days are our rest and recovery days. Allow your mind, body, and spirit recovery days that allow you to regroup and recharge before the next leg of your life’s race.

5. The race is run one step at a time.

Every race from a 5K to a marathon is run one step at a time. Persistence is required. Tenacity is essential. Whether a runner is fresh on the course, struggling on a hill, or nearing the finish line, progress requires taking one step after the next. Sometimes life has a way of discouraging us. We want to curl up right where we are. Progress feels impossible. But, just like a marathon, the race of life is run one step after the next. Take the next step. Don’t give up! You don’t have to have it all figured out… just take the very next step.

6. Stories are worth celebrating.

One of my favorite things about the Boston marathon each year is hearing the personal stories of triumph. People come from all over the world with stories as varied as the number runners. The personal trials and moving stories of overcoming great challenges are incredibly inspirational. There’s power in our personal stories. We don’t need to be elite athletes or marathon runners to use our stories to make a difference. When you share your story with others, you remind yourself of your past victories, you remember how far you’ve come, you remember the incredible answers to prayer that you’ve received, and, you inspire others to continue to face their fears and overcome their challenges. Be open to sharing your story and allowing God to use it to bless others.

It’s your turn:

When life feels more like a marathon than a walk in the park, be encouraged. Don’t get stuck looking at the entire course all at once… focus on the next step. Did this post encourage you? I would love to hear from you. Click and comment and let me know which of these you needed to hear or need to remember.  And, if this has encouraged you, why not click to share? So many people are dealing with very real struggles and maybe this could share a bit of hope for their marathon.

Until next time friend, be blessed!

You might also enjoy:

3 Secrets an Ironman Taught Me About Perspective
Crushing: God Turns Pressure into Power (video with TD Jakes with Steven Furtick)

The post What You Need To Remember When Life Feels Like A Marathon appeared first on Susan Call.

4 Positive Things You Can Do in a Season of Waiting

Have you ever noticed how we can’t wait for Friday, can’t wait until summer, or can’t wait until Christmas? We’re challenged when we have to wait for a loved one to return home or to visit. Or find ourselves being inpatient anxious waiters when we’re waiting for a tough situation to be resolved or waiting for our luck to change.

I’m guessing I’m not alone nor going out on a limb by saying waiting is hard!

Inspiration while waiting.

Some time ago I got together with a friend who was right in the middle of a season waiting for a dream opportunity. Despite the position all but being handed to her, one piece hadn’t Some fallen into place – the time. She’d been told she’d already “made the team” but, the timing was “not yet.” As she described how difficult it was for her dream to be realized, I thought of an analogy that helped us both shift our perspectives on waiting.

I explained that athletes typically make the Olympic team long before their big match or game. They know they’ve made the team but still it’s not time yet. During that wait, they wait by eating right, training hard, and pursing the lifestyle and habits of an Olympic athlete.

I challenged my friend, “What can you be using this time for?” How could she train, learn, grow, and be more prepared so that when it is her time she is “Olympic- athlete” ready. Sure she’s already “made the team” but what she chose to do with her wait time could make all the difference when it is time.

As I spoke, I realized the very words I was sharing with her apply to many aspects of life, including our faith life. If you’re a believer, you’ve already made the team. If you’re still working to identify your purpose or waiting for a door of opportunity to open, you may thought you were in a season of wait, but likely you’re in a season of training. It’s your season to prepare, to grow, so that you will be ready, the best you can be when it’s your time.

Four Things you can do in “the wait”:
1. Shift your attitude

We often feel powerless in the wait. It’s so easy to focus on the one things we can’t change – especially timing. But, what if we looked at time as a gift? Time to train, develop, and grow into a better stronger you. And perhaps this time could be cherished gift that allows you to do things that will be harder to do when your next opportunity is in full swing. Look at your wait and ask how the time could be a gift and use it to your advantage.

2. Develop your skills

What skill will help you when the wait is over? If for example you’re waiting for a publisher to sign your book idea, use the wait to hone your writing skills or edit your writing. If your wait is for a new job, what might help you when you start? Find a podcast, TED talk, or online webinar and choose a growth mindset. Use the wait time as a valuable gift to further develop your skills.

3. Find company to “share” your wait

Find a friend, coach, mentor, or support group who will help you stay on track during the “wait.” Is there someone who has successfully navigated the road you hope to travel? What can you learn from them? Or perhaps you have a friend who can share the gift of transparency with you. Together you can encourage each other during your season of wait.

4. Reassess why you are waiting

Are you waiting because you need to wait because of an external timing? Or have you prayed and are clear that the time is “not yet?” Or perhaps have you opted to stay in this season out of comfort, doubt or fear? Sometimes we get so comfortable waiting that we shift into neutral rather than digging deep, grabbing hold of our faith and courage and stepping forward when we know we should. Be willing to answer your why you’re waiting completely truthfully. If fear is holding you back, take time to identify the one next step you can take. Write it down and schedule it. Don’t stay in a season of wait unnecessarily. Life is too short!

It’s your turn:

What season are you in at the moment? Are you in a season of wait or possibly a season of training? Maybe you can be encouraged to look at your situation like an athlete waiting for their big game, choosing to use your time and opportunities to grow stronger so that you’re ready when the next door opens. Or, maybe this has been the wake-up call you’ve needed and you realize you’ve been waiting but it’s time to go and do. If so, shift your mindset and press on!

If this encouraged you, click to comment. I’d love to hear from you. And, why not click to share and encourage someone else who might be discouraged by a season of waiting?

Until next time friends, be blessed!

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