Subscribe to receive the Garden newsletter
That’s all. Thank you!
Blogger Outreach
Have a product??
PSA
It always baffles me how much of blogging is behind the scenes. This isn’t exclusive to the operations and maintenance of a blog but also the blogger outreach. Why so hush hush?
I get it if you operate a successful, corporate blog. Certain positions are established to handle those aspects of the job, example: press roles. But what about when you are a small time blog not looking to make it big rather a part-time income?
Aren’t small blogs important to the blogosphere? Can’t we advertise your new product just the same as a magazine? Yes, the number of eyes that see said advertising is significantly vast but isn’t a customer a customer? There are many scenarios that can play out and I’ll leave that to you. But do you follow what I am saying?
If so…
I am formerly offering product reviews for products related to:
Crafting
Journaling
Coaching programs (self-improvement)
Mental health
For a limited time I am offering to review your product(s) in exchange for the product/service. This is at little to no cost to you. Basically free advertising while I build my readership and continue about my blogging journey. How does that sound??
If my offer interests you, leave a comment or contact me directly using my contact page. If your product doesn’t fit into any of the above categories, list your product and perhaps another blogger will be interested. Please use the comment section to connect with others and get your product out there using small time blogs.
We are in this together!
Once in a Lifetime: A Review
Luna Phoxx intuitive services review
Hey, Y’all!
Boy, do I have a surprise for you today!
Today’s post is something new, refreshing, and mystical. It is different from my original content yet it falls in line with my spiritual practice – something I tend to keep you myself.
Disclaimer: I received a generous tarot card reading in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.
A Brief Intro
Luna Phoxx
Luna Phoxx is a blogger, established writer, farm owner, and intuitive advisor. After establishing a career as a freelance writer she fancied herself a blog where she offers advice, personal experiences, and guidance.
Intuitive Advisors tap into the frequency of life. They trust their intuition to guide them assisted by magickal tools such as tarot cards, ruins, and crystals, to name a few.
As a certified EFT practitioner, Luna specializes in EFT tapping and reading tarot cards. Couple that with her talent for writing and bam! Services made accessible from the comfort of your own home!!
Calling All Introverts & Busy People
YES!! That was no typo! Luna saw an opportunity and seized it. All of her services are available via email!
I admit I was skeptical in the beginning. I mean, how personalable can email communication be? Well, I will be the first to tell you that any doubts or preconceived ideas I had were blown out of the water. Lauren aka Luna’s attention to detail, knowledge of her craft, and all-around personality dispelled any concerns. Exchanging emails was a breeze. With every email, her knack shone through. Her ability to break down and explain the results of the service I received, made it that much more personalized.
Offers and services on Luna Phoxx are subject to change. This review reflects offers and services available at the time of this review.
Revenge of Eve
Backstory and Forward
I became interested in tarot a little over a year ago and immediately wanted to have a personal reading. For many reasons I was hesitant. My questions outweighed my comprehension so, to not appear an easy target, I held back. And I am glad I did.
As we all know the universe works in mysterious ways. Before I knew it Luna Phoxx and I began interacting. I subscribed to her email list curious about the gift she was offering. Much to my surprise, it was a free 20-minute EPT tapping session and a mini tarot reading! I couldn’t believe it. I scheduled my timeslot and awaited the date.
My free session took place over a Zoom call and lasted the full 20 minutes. There was some awkwardness on my end having never heard of EPT but I followed her lead (not typical of me). She drew me in with her ability to make me feel comfortable. Especially surrounding something of this nature. Her confidence and understanding of this mystical craft mesmerize me. It was evident she is the real deal and not someone looking to take advantage of others. Impressed and intrigued by the viable guidance I received I offered to write a testimony for her website.
Following this experience, I perused her website reading nearly all of her blog posts. (Her website is relatively new, established in November of 2021, and continuing to evolve.) I found that I aligned with how she explained tarot. Its use as a tool, the purpose behind seeking its advice, and also clarifying what it isn’t. Most if not all of my lingering questions were answered.
She accepted my offer for my testimony and countered it with one of her own. An offer to choose from the services she offers in exchange for a review or some link love. Networking at its finest!
Can I tell you that I was beside myself with excitement!! Because of my experience with the free reading, I already decided to save my money to purchase a Wheel of Life reading from her but now…now here she was offering a service in exchange for a review!!! I was mind blown!
Needless to say, here we are. I have officially had my first personal tarot card reading and because of the skilled reader behind my reading, I felt genuinely guided, connected, and seen. From the beginning until the end my experience was exceptional.
I’m an introvert and former ultrarunner with a background in neuroscience — passionate about helping chronic overachievers and creative entrepreneurs find freedom.
Luna Phoxx
My Service Choice
The Wheel of Life is one of the four services Luna offers.
What is a Wheel of Life Reading?
The Wheel of Life is a tarot forecast for the year ahead. This 13-card spread contains five mini-spreads to help you make the most of the coming year. Get insight on all the classic tarot points, including:
- Money
- Relationships
- Spiritual path
You also get 12 mini-readings to correspond to each month!
No question needed!
My Experience
Keep in mind my experience may differ from yours, however, her services are readily available on her website. If you are interested her website is user-friendly and the steps to work with her are clear and concise. Go ahead! Check it out 😉
Setting up my reading was simple. Luna suggested that the reading happen close to or around the time of my birthday. Due to her calendar filling up in December, I opted for early August. Hey! I couldn’t contain my excitement 😂
Saturday, August 6th I received an email with a pdf including a photograph of my personal spread. The pdf includes roughly 1,000 words explaining her first impression and the overall arc of the reading. She then breaks the reading down by combining a few cards of the spread to offer insight into other areas of your life.
I for one don’t like being a novice but worse than that is when technical jargon is thrown around while being new to something. It makes me feel dumb and I avoid that feeling at all costs. Initially, I feared I would be lost reading her interpretation but alas Lauren’s approach and delivery are impeccable.
She uses her writing expertise to go in-depth about the card’s meanings. She explains her intuitive response to how the cards relate to your reading. She speaks in easy-to-understand language. I quickly discovered that she doesn’t claim to be a fortune teller or seer of the future but rather a reader of the story as presented by the cards.
She uses real-life examples to assist you in seeing where or how it fits in your life. She follows her intuitive connection to your reading to encourage you to apply the meanings of the cards where necessary in your life. In hopes of prompting you to seek the guidance delivered through the cards.
At the beginning of my reading, she recommend that I take from the reading what jives and leave behind what didn’t. Don’t force things to fit. After receiving my email reading she extended herself to answer any questions or to clarify any confusion. Despite the distance between us, her availability throughout this experience made me feel secure but the follow-up opportunity made me feel like a valued customer.
So? How’d It Go?
I won’t divulge too many details as these readings when done in tune, tend to get pretty personal. And mine did. I took advantage of the follow-up offer because my reading foresaw some difficulties that I proclaimed to encounter in late 2020 into 2021. I wanted her to clarify the possibility and ensure that I do not go through those hardships again. Instead, she replied so eloquently:
I’m glad the reading was accurate, even if it felt like the timeline was a little off. It makes sense that much of your reading rang true for events in the past. I think part of the tarot’s magic is its ability to highlight the areas where we felt a little stuck or pressed. You might want to give those areas of your life some extra consideration. Ask yourself, “how is this past event affecting me now, and what can I do to prevent it from recurring?”
If you want to get really trippy, remember that time isn’t real. Time is something humans create to stay organized. New physics theories disprove its existence. The calendar rolls over from one year to the next, and seasons change, but the energy imprints of the events that occurred remain within us.
In other words, the memories from 2020-21 that were triggered by this reading are probably still affecting you, consciously or not. We tend to repeat patterns until we extract the hidden lessons within them. Then, we can move on.
These readings aren’t predictions of what will happen in the future. I find that approach disempowering, and I don’t want to step on anyone’s free will. If you don’t want a difficult situation repeating itself, these cards ask you to make a plan. Don’t expect the same thing to happen. Practice asking for your ideal situation instead. That might mean rehearsing difficult conversations with yourself in the mirror, adding your own special spoonful of sugar to sweeten the reception. Maybe it means getting comfortable saying no to small things, so you feel more confident when a big ask arises. These are just ideas. Boundaries are always tricky.
And from her response, I got ugly honest with myself because she is right. Some things still linger that result in the form of a painful lesson. I just didn’t want to admit that to myself. It’s inevitable but not always easy. So I am heeding the universe’s warning because I have learned that lesson. Maybe it’s time I heal that wound once and for all.
I look forward to the rest of my year. Having a pdf to look back on is a bonus and it will be utilized as a compass. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with Luna Phoxx. She is a natural. I could praise her abilities all day. Better yet, how about you connect with her yourself? I am confident you will be impressed!!
How ‘bout You? Where Will the Cards Guide You?
For the record, Luna Phoxx services get my stamp of approval. If you are looking for guidance or genuine advice, I wholeheartedly recommend Luna Phoxx’s intuitive services.
Truck’n Along
Holla!
I am happy to report a more positive mindset. That is part of depression lessening and part of medication reaching its shelf life in my system. I am about 20 days free from the antipsychotic I was taking.
I have actual feelings. I mean, I feel things in my gut and when I am medicated, that tingle isn’t there. I’ve had two restless nights, my appetite has decreased (common for me), and I haven’t felt irritable. All good signs. I am paying attention to my tolerance levels. How well I tolerate “life” is a good indicator of my stability.
Not too long ago I mentioned making a journal for a co-worker. I said I would take photos but I didn’t. Damn laziness. Well, the receiver of the journal has commissioned me to make two for her daughters. She will gift them at Christmas. The two are close in age and are pre-teen (12ish). Lucky me I have some covers and signatures already sized for one another. All that they require is binding and embellishments. I am pleased with the content of the pages for a teen journal. There is plenty of room that encourages writing. Most, if not all, of the pages have ruling on them and are bright white. My design theory says that teens aren’t so into vintage so the white paper is perfect! (I could be wrong) I’ve chosen a solid color to decorate with throughout each journal. One seafoam green and the other purple.
Idol Time
During my downtime, I have taken to YouTube. Would you consider that social media? Just curious. I feel it is more of an instructional platform but that’s neither here nor there. I mention this because I stumbled upon a DIYer who has like 77k subscribers – that’s a lot – and aside from her videos I looked at her comment section. One video had over 200 comments and she liked like the first 3-5 comments and did not reply to one. This irks me enough to be here discussing it. First of all why even have the comment section available if you aren’t going to chat with your fans? They are obviously fans or they wouldn’t be subscribed. Amiright? Second of all how does someone have that many followers when they do not engage with the community?
I don’t subscribe to just anyone’s account. I am particular. But I accidentally hit the subscribe button while on her channel. I immediately unsubscribed because I hadn’t seen enough of her channel. That’s when I ventured into the comment section and saw her lack of engagement. Just from that alone, I will not subscribe to her channel. And it’s sad because she had some decent content, at least that’s what I saw from watching three of her videos. I know my follow doesn’t make or break her. She is established and kudos to her but how? From content alone? Am I expecting too much from a stranger who offers inspiration in the DIY community?
I’ll be honest, I just think it’s rude as hell to not at least like a complimentary comment. I mean, every comment left encouraged her to keep creating, continue doing what she does, etc… All positive, confidence-boosting love and nothing. No response from her. Like, how dare her. How? Why? 🤔 I literally stopped what I was doing to add this to this post. I wanted to put it in her comment section but I thought what’s the point? Seeing this infuriates me and yet it’s none of my business.
What I can do is come to the platform I use and express my gratitude to those of you who care to read what I have to say. No, I don’t offer step-by-step instructions on how to do something. Hell, I don’t even share science-backed information. I’m just a woman sharing her story and perspective of the world. The most important aspect of sharing is acknowledging the audience who encourages me, supports me, and interacts with me. That’s the least I can do. So with all that said, thank you to each of you who read, comment, or like. I will always keep the mindset of y’alls importance to my space. I appreciate the time you borrow from your day to read what I have to say.
Creative Fun
Moving on. I am determined to learn to draw a face (seen above). I have been practicing different styles of noses, eyes, and lips. I haven’t quite got the hair down yet or the ears but those will come in due time. Here are a few sketches I’ve done. I am obsessed with drawing them 😂
Not too shabby for a beginner if I do say so myself. Progress, not perfection. I am teaching myself highlight and contour via make-up tutorials on Pinterest. Really I am just using the images of a few pins to guide me. I’ve done a little shading but I am not familiar enough to shade a face using a pencil. I will, however, use vibrant oil pastels, using light and dark variations of the same color. You can see that in the first photo. I am super proud of her. I like her.
Well, that’s about it for me. How ‘bout you? Don’t forget to share your opinion about the YouTube hoopla. Am I being over-dramatic?
Size Does Matter!
Tisk, Tisk
Whoever said size doesn’t matter has never carried a notebook or planner 😉 I’m back today to discuss notebook/planner sizes. Surely you didn’t think since having found the holy grail of notebooks that my romance with stationery ended. Pst.
A Standard
Here’s a quick rundown. Paper sizes are measured on a standard paper size scale. International Standard Organization (ISO) specifies paper sizes used in most countries except for the U.S. and Canada which size their own sizing standard.
*The link provided goes in-depth about the differences between countries’ paper sizes.
There are a lot of mathematical formulas behind A, B, and C paper sizes but the common feature is that any successive paper size measurement is determined by halving the dimensions of the preceding one.
I use the ISO paper sizing chart for a few reasons. One is because I use a travelers notebook system and another reason is for ease when ordering products online.
• Click the link to learn more about this unique system. You won’t regret it 😉
Write or Type
Analog systems are fully customizable. Did I mention handwriting is linked to mental health benefits and memory retention? A paper system can include but is not limited to planners, journals, common books, and sketchbooks. A basic notebook is a handy reference tool for meetings or classroom notes.
In today’s climate, high-tech phones have all but replaced the practice of analog systems. Computer files replaced filing cabinets. And the cloud did away with photo albums. The common denominator; access. With a handheld device and the push of a button, information is at our fingertips. This access rewards the instant gratification we’ve become accustomed to.
Similar to its predecessor notebooks store information. And with the market still intact, stationery companies have evolved, offering a variety of sizes. Just as technology has gone from a desktop to our hands, notebooks evolved from a backpack to our pocket.
On the Go or At Home?
The flexibility an analog system offers, while reaping other benefits, makes it my preferred method of recording and creating. However, I am not fully analog. I rely on technology for blogging, editing, an alarm clock, a calculator, and shopping.
As for my size preference, I utilize different sizes depending on if I am home or mobile. If I am going places I prefer easy to carry. Creating on the go is done with limited supplies. Small and minimal art is usually the result. Currently, I use a passport-sized travelers notebook. At home the opposite is true. I express myself creatively in large, sometimes oversized books. Accessibility is a key factor.
My journal, on the other hand, is an A5. An average size notebook. I need more room when I am writing than creating. Yes, I carry both every day! A fun little insight: an EDC is an everyday carry. A cute acronym present in the stationery community. My journal isn’t exclusive to writing. The paper in my journal handles a variety of mediums including watercolor. I am 100% satisfied with A5 for use as my journal but I am itching to try the personal size for on-the-go creating.
That’s the beauty of analog. You can switch it up without breaking the bank. Part of the appeal of travelers’ journaling is the personalization and aesthetic. There are SO many options to choose from!! Makers create covers using all kinds of materials but the ones made of leather are a true investment. I own two leather travelers journals, a passport, and a regular size, each from different companies but both cherished tools.
One Woman’s Quest to Find the Perfect Notebook
Humble Beginnings
To some, paper is paper. But for others, paper offers an appreciation as a multipurpose medium. An avenue of expression.
I remember vividly, standing mesmerized by Lisa Frank folders for the first time. The bright colors and animal theme spoke to me. Her designs stood apart from her competitors on the school supply aisle. I imagine this is where stationery lovers are introduced to their beloved, during school supply season. Wide or college ruling, mechanical or wooden pencils, blue or black ink…slim pickings for a future connoisseur.
As my love for stationery evolves, so does the desire for a particular substrate. Ink, paper, and other tools tempt my pocketbook, varying in quality, color, and size. The exploration of stationery is finite. Herein lies a challenge. Where does one start?
Paper Passion
I began with paper. First I set out to discover my ruling type. I purchased cheap grid notebooks, dot ruled journals, and plain paper. My amateur self chose college over wide-ruled but my curiosity led me to see what the hype was about using other ruling styles.
My first ever premium notebook purchase was a Clairefontaine notebook with Seyes-ruling or French ruling. This style of ruling uses a combination of grid and lines originally intended to help those learning handwriting maintain consistent height and spacing of letters. While the ruling and quality of paper impressed me, I had chosen a cover and size that wasn’t for me. My search continued.
Down the rabbit hole I went. I was floating in a paradise of paper. Admittedly, I got distracted and purchased pretty notebooks with poor-quality paper. I needed focus. With so many options and no preference for ruling, I switched my attention to finding a brand that I align with. I set down some guidelines and off I went.
What I Gathered
Impulse buys taught me that I do not want the ruling to stand out. It distracts me. I prefer white over cream-colored paper. I also concluded that bleed-through is not acceptable. Ever. With these specifics in mind I forged forward on my quest.
In Support of Community
I will not list all of the brands that impress me. But I will say that commercially produced stationery is no longer an option. Not for my personal use. Instead I scout out other passionate stationery enthusiasts to make my purchases. On my mission, looking for a brand to support, I stumbled upon Galen Leather.
Enough can’t be said about this company. You should check em out. Their story is beautiful and the craftsmanship, top notch.
By this time I caught wind of the cult-like following of Tomoe River paper. With child-like exploration I dove head first into the frenzy. I could barely contain my excitement when I saw The Everyday notebook filled with this glorious paper on Galen Leather’s website! And even better, the notebook boasts 400 pages of this luxury paper. I pulled the trigger and never looked back. If you would’ve asked me 5 years ago if I would spend thirty dollars on a notebook, I’d think you were crazy.
But wait! There’s More
In true Candace fashion, while I was satisfied, I couldn’t extinguish the flame to try the dot grid. My exploration continued once more. I took to the world’s largest retailer, Amazon. I popped Tomoe River dot grid notebook in the search bar and up pops the Namani Crossfield Seven Seas notebook. featuring cross grid. Yes. Instead of a dot, there is a faint cross that helps guide horizontal and vertical lines. Much to my surprise, this notebook has 80 more pages!! I couldn’t resist. I sent the link to my boyfriend and within a few days, I held it in my hands. Finally, paper peace, packaged in a flat-lay notebook (click the link above for specs).
I have arrived.
Are you looking to spoil yourself? If so, I highly recommend both of these notebooks. The paper is fountain pen friendly, no bleed-through, thin, smooth…ah Best of all, you can use watercolor with beautiful results. My quest is a self-funded exploration. I am not an affiliate. You don’t have to be a paper lover to appreciate these notebooks. Give one a try!!
What excites you?
How Self-Aware Are You: Part 2
How Self-Aware Are You?
Motivation and Desire
Welcome back to the discussion about self-awareness: The most important aspect of self-improvement (IMO). The starting point of a rewarding yet emotional journey.
Find Part 1 here
In our previous discussion, we expanded on the definition of self-awareness. We explored character traits and feelings. Part 2 of this two-part series will dive into motive and desire. As a refresher let’s define self-awareness.
Self-awareness is the conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motive, and desire.
Motive
For reference sake, let’s define what motive is. According to Oxford Language, motive is a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious.
Keep in mind that these topics can be interpreted a million ways. Both parts of this series are meant to be basic and a stepping stone to start your personal journey of improvement. Remember I am not a licensed therapist.
((Full disclosure: I lived sick in this area of my life more than I’ve not. I have grown significantly, however, my objective view on motive is skewed and underdeveloped…Soooo instead of wasting your time, I did some reading and this is what I gathered about motive 🤓))
Guess what?? I suggest using pen and paper to list your motive(s)? Write em down. Next to it – be honest – write pro or con.
Princeton WordNet offers a more descriptive definition of motive. One that I align with.
the psychological feature that arouses an organism to action toward a desired goal; the reason for the action; that which gives purpose and direction to behavior.
123test.com says this: motives are about what sets people in motion. For example, are you more interested in autonomy and individual freedom or is it power and status that drive you? The following motives are commonly distinguished:
- Financial reward: importance one attaches to high income, materialism;
- Power and influence: desire to be able to lead or influence other people and events;
- Altruism: contributing to the bigger picture and making one’s own financial interests or other interests secondary to this;
- Self-development: work in which there’s room to develop yourself further;
- Creativity: coming up with new ideas or products, being actively involved in creation;
- Social contacts: conviviality and friendship;
- Autonomy: independence and being able to make decisions oneself;
- Security: holding long-term security in high regard, e.g. pension, permanent income and one’s own house in which one can continue to live for a long time;
- Status and prestige: impression or appearance is the more important motive, e.g. through money or a specialisation;
- Variety: plenty of different types of work;
- Structure: work that consists in set routines and tasks;
- Influence: being able to determine what other people have to do and influencing decisions;
- Work-life balance: work that fits in well with your personal life and ties in favourably with your free time;
- Working conditions: nice workplace, nice building, nice location, favourable working conditions.
Use the above information to guide your list. I will do the same. Moving on.
Desire
a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen.
Forgive me as I work through this aloud. I’m afraid it is hard to differentiate between desire and motive. By definition, desire is a feeling whereas motive is a reason. Still, close, to me. And since this post is meant to be informational, I Googled it 😉
My Findings
Ironyoflife.com has this to say:
Desire and motivation are not the same thing. Desire is wanting to do something, but motivation is making it happen. You need a desire to have motivation, but you do not need motivation to have a desire.
“When we talk about our goals, we usually define them in terms of why they are our goals and how we’re going to achieve them. To describe them this way, we tend to use the words “motivation” and “desire” interchangeably.”
Yeah, what they said 😉
I strongly encourage you to read the article I linked if you want to explore further. And that’s about it for part 2 of this two-part series. If you find yourself unsure of where to start your self-improvement journey, start with self-awareness. The key is honesty, acceptance, and kindness. One step at a time.
Until next time. I hope this post inspires you to begin.
Xo
Candace
How Self-Aware Are You? Part 1
Please bear with me as I switch up my original format. Today’s post is meant to assist others in self-evaluation motivated by my personal experience. I am not a professional and the following advice is not a substitute for licensed opinion.
Today’s topic is an important one in the realm of self-improvement. Stepping up to the plate and acknowledging our behaviors takes courage. But bravery alone doesn’t get the job done. It takes work. That work begins with self-awareness. It is an ongoing process with reward. Before we dive into the most important aspect of growth, let’s define what it means.
Self-awareness is the conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motive, and desire.
A simple definition with loads of personal responsibility. Let’s elaborate and break it on down, shall we?
In life we learn there is only one thing we can control and that is our reaction to situations. In order to obtain that control one must be aware of their own feelings. For a semblance of order dispersed across the board, one needs to be aligned with their motives and desires.
True intentions come with a bagful of surprises if we aren’t aware of why our outcomes aren’t what we expected.
Desire is the motivator of intention. It is the driving force masked behind the action. It is important to evaluate this definition because while it’s simply read, it packs a punch. And if you are at the beginning of a self-improvement journey, it’s vital that it begins with the knowledge of your responsibility in the process.
Life is a journey, not a destination
Ralf Waldo Emerson
Are You Ready to Start the Work? Good because that’s the first step!
First:
Let’s get out a notebook (or your journal) and start putting things down. The process of actual handwriting and creating lists makes us 40% more likely to remember the content. This is some important work we are embarking on so we’ll take all the backup we can get!! So grab your pen and paper, I’ll wait 😉
Define Your Character
Character is defined as the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. What qualities do you consider unique to yourself? This doesn’t mean that others don’t share certain qualities it just means that these are guidelines that govern you. These are things that you stand by, your definite, your no-go’s. Get specific. These can be characteristics that you are proud of or a list of characteristics you want to work on. I think it is important to list both as that shows true self-awareness (personal opinion).
Keep in mind while reading my examples that these are present-day examples and characteristics I have developed over time with commitment, determination, and stubbornness. My list looked far different in the beginning. The importance is to be brutally honest with yourself and then use kindness to improve.
Personal examples:
1. I do not allow others to skew my reality for the benefit of their own. I expect others to hold themselves accountable just as I hold myself. If I make a mistake, I own it without beating myself up.
2. I do not join in on gossiping. If and when the conversation is turned to me, I consciously shift the conversation to the subject matter at hand, the underline problem not a particular person. And if that isn’t possible I point out that we all possess less than desirable traits and that I cannot speak to anyone else’s character defaults as I have my own to worry about.
3. A character default I used to have was overgeneralizing. I still struggle with this one a little but I’m not as attached to it as I once was. I used to be a pretty black/white thinker. It either is or it isn’t but I’ve grown to learn that depending on the circumstances things can be a little grey instead. This one requires that I work on broadening my view. And I do my best. I am still pretty much a yes or no person.
4. If asked, I tell the truth despite popular consensus or the possibility of hurt feelings. If not asked and there is a possibility it goes against the grain, I do my best to keep it to myself or withhold my opinion because that is all it is, my opinion. I work to keep the unsolicited advice to myself.
Those are a few examples of my mental character that I am proud of but continue to work on. A list of my morals would look like this:
1. I am compassionate, always
2. I am fair, always
3. I am not judgemental. As far as I am aware I am not, however, I do judge and to not sway myself with my own opinion, I work hard to shift my perspective to view each circumstance objectively.
4. I am on a continuous path of growth and I show my gratitude by encouraging others to do the same. I share my lessons with honesty and suggestion keeping one aspect in mind; kindness.
5. I mindfully aim to be patient. Previously, I considered myself impatient. I thought that was how I was and that was forever. I learned differently.
Feelings
Feelings are defined as an emotional state or reaction. Writing these down serves a purpose when you arrive at a crossroads or when processing. We aren’t going to list our feelings today because they are constantly changing in response to stimuli. However, having a list of feeling words written down to reference or as a key for tracking is a suggestion.
The important work in self-awareness and feelings is to align yourself with how you feel. Can you separate feeling from a given situation to make a decision? Are you capable of recognizing when your emotions are responsible for undesirable results? Can you identify when you are overreacting based on past experiences?
Feelings are a tricky subject. They can guide you to do good or land you in a bind. There is a delicate balance you should aim to achieve by allowing your feelings, acknowledging them yet not being controlled by them. Our feelings are valid but they should not be the driving force behind decision-making. Making decisions is a skill set not everyone is equipped with so it goes to note that the two can be a tragedy waiting to happen.
To be self-aware is to be conscious. This consciousness allows room for one to acknowledge yet not become what they are feeling.
Conclusion
Just as with all areas of self-improvement we can elaborate but learning the basics is the goal of this two-part series. Coming to understand our role in our evolution is critical for growth. It is a never-ending task but one well worth the effort.
Stay tuned for part two of the discussion where I expand on motive and desire. Until then create a list of the characteristics that need improving. Also, take the time to acknowledge how situations make you feel and focus on not allowing the feeling to determine your result. The two of these are a great starting point for becoming self-aware. You’ve gotta know where you come from to know where you are going. What better way than having a written record to reference when you reach the top?!?!
I hope you found this discussion informative. Let me know whatcha think in the comments. Are you new to self-improvement? How self-aware are you?
It Persists. I Create.
Depression is kicking my ass. I keep reminding myself this shall pass. It persists. Confirming it’s impression from days of past. No definite of how long this episode will last. It’s depth, vast. A shadow is cast.
Often I am asked, what is wrong? Or what does depression feel like? Unfortunately, I have no answers but I’ll give it a go. It is constant. It is like an itch that cannot be scratched. There is a feeling there but no words to describe how it feels. If I had to choose a word I’d say, for myself, numb. Then I ponder if numb has a feeling considering… Void of feeling. Yet there is a feeling. Oh I got it!! It’s like white noise or static. It isn’t loud enough for others to hear. A constant hum that lingers despite tuning it out. Trying is describe depression is similar to catching a hummingbird. It’s a feeling rather a noise. A consistent noise that only you can feel.
Anyways
My creativity is at an all time high (not counting the past week spent in bed). What I love the most about using paper to create is if you don’t like what you created, you can use layers to cover it up and start over. At the beginning of July I decided I wanted to start carrying my passport size travelers journal. I did so to encourage creating on the go and to have a place for the random daily papers I sometimes accumulate. It’s worked out well. I will most likely continue carrying it. I themed this month’s mini journal “play”.
It has encouraged me to play using my creative mind. I think that’s where we go wrong as adults. We quit playing. I am guilty and I would like to apologize to myself for having stopped play.
While I am at it
I would also like to formerly apologize for discontinuing Monday Morning Mantra without notice. I’m not so certain those posts were a hit but if you liked them, my apologies. When I am in a slump the first thing to suffer is my productivity. And having a set posting schedule is part of a productive routine.
Wrap’n it Up But First
I am fortunate to have a support system for when I am muddling my way through. I mean they are always there but more so during times of uncertainty. For instance, my Baby Momma (daughter’s step-mom) dropped in a random hello, how are you? Now she has seen me at my worst and still comes around yet only when it seems necessary. We have a soul connection. Perhaps I beckon her when I am down. Who knows but I do know that speaking with her and seeing my mother are about the only 2 things that counterbalance the yuck. I think it’s important to recognize such connections. During this episode I’ve also noticed the growth in my relationship when it comes to support. It has evolved. Just by acknowledging these two scenarios I bring light to the darkness that encompasses me. I think that’s a beautiful thing.
Ok, ok, okay
This post is all over the place so if you made it this far, thanks! It helps me to process by writing things out and lucky you, this is my soundboard. I went outside of my comfort zone and shared some photo’s from my journal for your viewing pleasure in hopes of it lessening the agony of reading my dribble. I’ve fallen behind on the newsletter but my intentions are to send some words that route soon. Don’t miss out. Subscribe!
How are you holding up?? Is the heat wave affecting your area?
Revenge of Eve 