“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” —Maya AngelouI have been thinking about this quote, and I wanted to share it. Giving back is something that has been part of my life for a long time. I don't remember the first time I volunteered, but I know that each that I've made the effort to give back and do something for people it gives much more back to me. I had the opportunity to start a Youth Leaders Council and the premise is that kids learn about leadership and complete service projects in the community to give back. I feel like the more you give the more you want to give. It's a natural progression. Thanks to everyone who gives their money and their time. It means so much. And as the quote above says, it could offer you a spiritual benefit as well.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Giving and Receiving
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
The Stories that Connect Us
Since the beginning of time stories have connected us. The cave men and women drew pictures telling a story on cave walls. Sharing stories orally came next and it continues today. What prompted me to write about this topic was that I led a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention training yesterday, and as each individual in the room shared stories you could almost see them connecting as they recognized similiarities, commenalities, and a belief in making a difference.
Sometimes in our world of technology where you can connect in so many ways: text, email, Facebook, Twitter, blogs, instant messaging, and even when necessary the old-fashioned phone call it doesn't always seem necessary to meet with others face-to-face. The reality is that without a face-to-face meeting so many things can be lost in translation. What's interesting about leading a training is that each and every training is different, and this is because of the people in the room participating. It is amazing to watch people really listen, talk, and support each other.
I just took a webinar on Twitter yesterday, and I feel like I understand it a little better. It does have some power to affect change and potentially offer a vehicle to fundraise for an issue that you're passionate about, but I would contend it doesn't offer the same connection or magic of a room full of people. Each of our new technologies has a purpose and a time and a place. I used to be able to get away with paying $5 for 200 text messages, but now I had to upgrade to unlimited text messages, as my number of texts have steadily increased. It seems that most people would rather text, unlike me who's old-fashioned and prefers to speak on the phone. I am accepting this new change.
Even so sometimes a text or an email isn't always the most effective way to communicate. Sometimes you need to be in the same room with a group of people who create an energy by listening to each other's stories and thoughts. I appreciate everyone who shared stories last night. Face-to-face reminds us of our connection to each other. And that's something we need more of in our communities, nation, and world. It happened after 9/11, and it's time we find small ways to connect.
For more information about QPR Trainings go to http://www.qprinstitute.com/or contact me.
Sometimes in our world of technology where you can connect in so many ways: text, email, Facebook, Twitter, blogs, instant messaging, and even when necessary the old-fashioned phone call it doesn't always seem necessary to meet with others face-to-face. The reality is that without a face-to-face meeting so many things can be lost in translation. What's interesting about leading a training is that each and every training is different, and this is because of the people in the room participating. It is amazing to watch people really listen, talk, and support each other.
I just took a webinar on Twitter yesterday, and I feel like I understand it a little better. It does have some power to affect change and potentially offer a vehicle to fundraise for an issue that you're passionate about, but I would contend it doesn't offer the same connection or magic of a room full of people. Each of our new technologies has a purpose and a time and a place. I used to be able to get away with paying $5 for 200 text messages, but now I had to upgrade to unlimited text messages, as my number of texts have steadily increased. It seems that most people would rather text, unlike me who's old-fashioned and prefers to speak on the phone. I am accepting this new change.
Even so sometimes a text or an email isn't always the most effective way to communicate. Sometimes you need to be in the same room with a group of people who create an energy by listening to each other's stories and thoughts. I appreciate everyone who shared stories last night. Face-to-face reminds us of our connection to each other. And that's something we need more of in our communities, nation, and world. It happened after 9/11, and it's time we find small ways to connect.
For more information about QPR Trainings go to http://www.qprinstitute.com/or contact me.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Attitude and Belief in Yourself
So I've been thinking a lot about attitude, and I just heard Lenny Kravitz sing, "You've got to believe in yourself." Admit it you're now singing along with me to this song.
I've been working on eating better and exercising, and this process is making my attitude take a nose dive. It's not that I haven't seen any results, but the main result that I am seeking, which is weight loss, is so elusive. My clothes fit better, I've toned up, and I'm stronger. Despite these successes my attitude to keep it up is wavering.
I have hypothyroidism, and boy it's a valid issue, but even so I can't use that as an excuse to give up. My friend told me yesterday that I looked great. I admit my jeans now fit so much better, which feels good.
So I'm trying a new app recommended by my cousin it's called MyFitness Pal. It's great to track your food and physical activity. Having this information is an eye-opener. I've also started a lunchtime boot camp class on Tuesdays with a friend. And I may sign up for another one, too on Thursdays. I need to move from working out three to four times a week to working out four to six times a week.
So I am going to seek more support going forward. I'm back to feeling better again, and I'm accepting the fact that I may have to work even harder than others. My attitude has to be that this is about my health and my life. Plus, I want to be in good shape before ski season so I can really rip it down the mountain. Let's not talk about snow, yet, though.
I guess it's like Lenny says, "You've got to believe in yourself." That's why I'm finally taking care of myself...it's not about the end, but the journey. And please remind me of this when I'm working out with my personal trainer tonight. I might need some encouragement.
I've been working on eating better and exercising, and this process is making my attitude take a nose dive. It's not that I haven't seen any results, but the main result that I am seeking, which is weight loss, is so elusive. My clothes fit better, I've toned up, and I'm stronger. Despite these successes my attitude to keep it up is wavering.
I have hypothyroidism, and boy it's a valid issue, but even so I can't use that as an excuse to give up. My friend told me yesterday that I looked great. I admit my jeans now fit so much better, which feels good.
So I'm trying a new app recommended by my cousin it's called MyFitness Pal. It's great to track your food and physical activity. Having this information is an eye-opener. I've also started a lunchtime boot camp class on Tuesdays with a friend. And I may sign up for another one, too on Thursdays. I need to move from working out three to four times a week to working out four to six times a week.
So I am going to seek more support going forward. I'm back to feeling better again, and I'm accepting the fact that I may have to work even harder than others. My attitude has to be that this is about my health and my life. Plus, I want to be in good shape before ski season so I can really rip it down the mountain. Let's not talk about snow, yet, though.
I guess it's like Lenny says, "You've got to believe in yourself." That's why I'm finally taking care of myself...it's not about the end, but the journey. And please remind me of this when I'm working out with my personal trainer tonight. I might need some encouragement.
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