Personal Development and Self-Help – Page 4

August 27, 2018January 31, 2018

Conquering Anxiety With Affirmations

It can be difficult to do anything with your normal passion and excitement if you are feeling anxious.

Anxiety can squelch your motivation and control your life – if you let it.

If you have experienced an anxiety attack, you may be fearful of having another one, but living in such fear means you are living in a state of perpetual anxiety.

This can happen just because you are afraid of the anxiety itself!

Those who have never experienced an anxiety attack or high levels of anxiety cannot understand how hard this cycle can be to break.

If you believe you have to live in a constant state of fear and anxiety you’re wrong – you really can learn how to deal with the anxiety in a more positive manner.

Letting Go of the Anxiety

Worrying about the next anxiety attack can cause you to be in a constant state of fear that may keep you from doing the things you want or need to do.

Anxiety can be crippling, but that doesn’t mean that it has to be.

It can be hard to stop the cycle once you develop the pattern of having anxiety-related feelings and anxiety attacks, but it isn’t impossible.

You can overcome the anxiety cycle by using tools that are easy and convenient and you may be able to overcome the cycle in less time than you thought possible.

Using Positive Affirmations to Overcome Anxiety

One way you can conquer anxiety is by using positive affirmations.

These statements are a simple way to change your thought processes so you aren’t always waiting for anxiety to take charge of your life.

Many people create their own affirmations while others use affirmations from websites or books.

It doesn’t matter where you find the affirmations, just as long as you begin using them effectively throughout your day.

Choose affirmations that speak to you and help you overcome your fear of anxiety.

Affirmations must focus on the present and they should be about you, not anyone else.

Examples of Affirmations to Defeat Anxiety

Anxiety affirmations are simply positive statements that you can say to yourself in those moments when you start to feel anxious.

You can use these at any time and for any reason to calm your nerves and bring peace of mind.

For example, you can tell yourself, “I can overcome my fears because I am in control,” or “I no longer need to be frightened. I allow myself to receive the light of who I am.”

Any statement that replaces the anxious thoughts with a positive feeling will work.

Say these affirmations during anxious moments as often as you need to and continue affirming the positive thoughts until the anxious moment has passed.

By using these affirmations when you are feeling anxious, you are literally reprogramming your mind.

In doing so, you will be able to think in a more positive manner, and you can also use these affirmations to refocus your mind away from your anxiety and fear.

Every time you use an affirmation, you leave less and less room for the irrational fears and the anxiety that have ruled your life for far too long.

How has affirmations helped you get through a tough day?

What affirmation do you tell yourself to keep you moving?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

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July 29, 2018January 8, 2018

I use self-care, not self-control.

Because I recognize that having a list of rules is not enough to ensure healthy behavior, I utilize self-care methods rather than relying on self-control.

I realize I have come to the point where I must stand on my own two feet as an adult.

I cherish the relationships I have with others, but I have let go of the idea that I must have someone to nurture me so I can be healthy.

I am an adult and I can nurture myself.

I no longer waste time and energy seeking out parental substitutes and, instead, focus on being my own best friend and advocate.

I am understanding of myself when I fail. I recognize where I started and how far I have come.

Like a good parent, I don’t expect perfection upfront.

I take the time to analyze situations and develop strategies for improvement next time.

I reward myself when I do well.

The reward may be extravagant or miniscule, but I am still fully aware of the importance of recognizing my successes.

Just as I would nurture and support my children’s successes, I do the same for me.

In doing so, I renew my energy and set myself up for continued success in the future.

How do you engage in self-care or self-control?

How can you best reward and nurture yourself today?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!

July 18, 2018January 8, 2018

Top 10 Self-Confidence Building Tips

A lack of confidence can affect every area of your life, from your job performance to your personal relationships.

In reality, how you perceive yourself has a powerful impact on how others treat you.

Some factors in bolstering self-confidence may be beyond your control, but there are some very tangible things that you can do as well.

Using these tips will help you reach your full potential as a successful and confident person.

1. Dress confidently. Dress like the person you want to be and you’ll feel yourself become that person.

When you look good, you’ll feel good.

Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to go out and spend a fortune on clothes.

It’s better to buy a few really nice pieces than a bunch of cheap ones.

2. Walk faster. People who walk confidently keep a brisk pace because they have things to do and places to be.

Simply quickening your step will help you feel more confident.

3. Keep good posture. People can tell a lot about you by the way you carry yourself.

If you have slumped shoulders and cannot look people in the eye, you’ll leave a negative impression on them.

Keep your head up, make eye contact with others, and stand up straight and tall. You have nothing to hide.

4. Be grateful. Gratitude creates a state of peace in the body. A peaceful mind radiates confidence.

Make a list of the things you appreciate about yourself and be grateful for your past successes.

Tell those you love how much you appreciate them being in your life.

5. Compliment others. In addition to showing appreciation for what you have, it’s also important to show others your appreciation.

If you think negatively about yourself, then you’ll have a tendency to criticize others.

Break this habit by praising others on a daily basis. Seeing the best in others will bring out the best in you.

6. Give back. Contributing to the success of others will not only help you feel better about yourself, but karma will reward you in the end.

What goes around comes around, right?

Volunteer your time to help those in need or make a monetary contribution to your favorite local charity.

7. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Many people keep quiet for fear of saying something silly.

Taking an active role in discussions will distinguish you as a leader amongst your peers.

They will quickly recognize that you have confidence and plenty to offer.

8. Exercise regularly. If you work hard to create a better physical image, you’ll not only be healthier, but you’ll also have more energy.

Both of these things will contribute to your self-confidence, as will the compliments you’ll receive.

9. Sit in the front row. Most of us have a tendency to try to blend into the back of the room somewhere.

We don’t like being noticed. Confident people sit up front where they can take part in discussions without fear.

10. Take a chance and try something new. Learning a new hobby or activity will broaden your horizons and help you feel “alive.”

Anytime you spend stretching your mind improves your overall self-confidence.

Life’s Lessons

The more self-confidence you build in yourself, the more likely you’ll be to succeed.

No matter what task you choose to conquer, you’ll do so with enthusiasm.

Any setbacks you encounter won’t bother you because you’ll have the confidence necessary to continue.

Those who are insecure often find life to be a struggle, but with self-confidence, you can find it to be a joy.

Why suffer when you can soar!

How has self confidence made you feel better?

How important is having self confidence in your daily tasks?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!

July 15, 2018January 8, 2018

Tips for Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking

Public speaking is one of the most common fears that plagues us all!

But have you ever wondered why it’s so common?

I mean, we all speak all the time to our family and friends, what makes public speaking so different?

Well, it tends to be a social fear because we don’t want to appear stupid in front of others.

After all, what could be more embarrassing than making a fool of yourself in front of a large group of people?

Fear of Public Speaking Symptoms:

Dry mouth
Racing heart rate
Sweaty palms
Light-headedness
Unsettled stomach
Trembling hands or legs
Stammered speech
Rambling incoherent speech

Do these symptoms of fear plague you when you think about speaking in public?

If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people go through the exact same symptoms as you.

There are ways to overcome your fear of public speaking:

Be Prepared

Making every preparation before the big event will help give you confidence. Planning out every detail will help to put you at ease.

Know your material. If you’re worried about rambling off course, try to have very detailed outlines and notes of what you’re going to say.

Then, stick to the notes when you are speaking.

You should know your material well enough that your eyes are not glued to the paper for the entire speech.

Know your audience. Be aware of why the audience has come to listen to you speak.

If it’s a special occasion, then be prepared for the importance of the event.

This may make you more nervous, but it’s better to know beforehand.

Know the conditions under which you will speak. Check the lectern and microphone ahead of time to make sure everything is working properly.

Check out the room and visualize how the speech will go so you can make your entrance and give your speech with confidence.

Practice your speech as many times as possible. You can practice alone, in front of a mirror, or even in front of some friends.

Recording yourself giving your speech can also be helpful.

Relax Before Opening Your Mouth

This can take an enormous amount of effort, but by following a few simple steps, you’ll find that you can relax and speak as you normally would.

And after a few practice runs, you might even find that you enjoy public speaking!

Visualize the audience as being on your side.

They’re friends waiting to hang upon your every word. If you feel this way your body language will reflect that in your speech.

Don’t hesitate to take deep breaths and pauses when needed.

For example, when you’re called on to speak, take several deep breaths before leaving your chair.

When you reach the lectern, thank the person who introduced you and then slowly count to 3 in your head before speaking.

Implementing these tips will give you time to collect your thoughts and calm your nerves.

You’ll be less likely to start rambling and you’ll start to feel your muscles slowly begin to unwind.

If necessary, look at your notes and prepare what you’re going to say before opening your mouth.

If you’re worried about looking foolish in front of others, simply eliminate the possibility.

If you’ve come prepared and relaxed about the event, then you’re no fool!

You’re an intelligent human being with something special to offer the audience. Don’t forget it!

How confident are you when speaking in public?

How do you feel when speaking in front of a big crowd?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!

July 13, 2018January 8, 2018

The Power of a Positive Attitude

The power of a positive attitude cannot be underestimated.

The American minister and author of the book The Power of Positive Thinking Norman Vincent Peale wrote, “Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude toward it, for that determines our success or failure.

The way you think about a fact may defeat you before you ever do anything about it. You are overcome by the fact because you think you are.”

If you think you’re beaten, you are.

But if you stare defeat in the eye and refuse to give up because of “a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers” (Peale again), you can overcome any challenge and attain whatever you desire.

Empty pockets can’t hold you back very long, but if you have an empty mind filled with negative thoughts, you’ll always be held back from what you desire most.

Positive Thinking Leads To Action

With a positive attitude, you’ll begin to believe that you can build wealth in abundance.

You’ll chart your own course and be the master of your own fate and the captain of your own soul.

Thinking about what you want and deserve in life will lead you to take whatever steps are necessary to make those dreams come true.

Very often it’s a slow road to achieving your dreams, but one small step toward change will bring another small step after it.

Visualizing yourself in a better paying job might spur you to update your resume.

Believing you belong in a house in the suburbs might push you to call a realtor or look in the classified ads.

Realizing you have talents that make you special might convince you to volunteer in your community.

Living an abundant life doesn’t only refer to what’s in the bank. Abundance of family and friends is a very important part of human life.

It’s Easier To Be Negative

The average person gets all too easily gets imbued with a negative attitude.

It’s so much easier to whine and complain about needing more money, a better job, or a bigger house.

People are often lost in the negative imagery and don’t ever realize it’s in their own power to change their circumstances.

With a positive attitude, you’ll have a higher quality of life. Having a positive attitude can really work magic in your life.

People who have survived cancer invariably say that a positive mental outlook was vital to their success in overcoming their terrible disease.

A positive mental attitude helps you find the humor in things that may typically bring you down.

You’ll be able to see things from a fresh perspective so you can handle the tough times with more creativity and intelligence.

With a positive attitude, you’ll simply feel more joy in your life.

You’ll laugh more, feel healthier, be more courageous, have more self-confidence, and you won’t be as prone to giving up before you even get started.

More often than not, things will fall into place and you’ll feel an incredible sense of accomplishment!

How do you feel when you think of the positive side of things that happen to you instead of the negative consequences?

How can being positive help you become a better person?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

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July 10, 2018January 8, 2018

Improve Your Mood by Giving Thanks

Do you realize how much you can improve your outlook on life by simply being grateful? This is what is called an “attitude of gratitude.”

If you cultivate an “attitude of gratitude” you’ll actually bring even more joys into your life like a fulfilling career, pay raises, wealth, health, and stronger relationships.

An attitude of gratitude is truly a magnet for prosperity and success.

After all, much of life is about your attitude and your outlook on things.

It’s been said that optimists may be wrong and pessimists may be right about some things, but optimists enjoy the ride. Which are you?

If you transform your attitude you can change your entire universe.

And yes, you really can change in your attitude by showing appreciation a little more often.

Be Thankful for What You Do Have

Many people, maybe even the majority of us, believe their lives are boring or meaningless.

Isn’t that awful?

Oftentimes we see little to be thankful for because we’re always thinking about the things we wish they had.

We may live in a comfortable home in a nice neighborhood and we may have plenty of food on the table, but we just don’t see the joys in the everyday.

We often take the little things for granted.

Are you one of these people?

If so, it’s okay! There’s plenty of hope and there are plenty of things for you to be thankful for.

There are so many joys in your life right now that you’re likely overlooking.

For example, by reading this article you have obviously awoken for another day.

Isn’t the fact that you are still alive something to be thankful for?

After all, a cancer survivor, sure won’t take life for granted anymore!

Here’s something to think about:

Did the sun rise today? If so, be thankful for the gift of light and warmth.

Did you have work to do today? If so, be thankful for the opportunity to earn a living for you and your family.

Did you eat a nourishing meal today? If so, be thankful for the gift of food.

Even the smallest things in your life are reasons to celebrate!

As we all know, “things could be worse” which is all the more reason to have an attitude of gratitude!

Lots of Gratitude = Positive Attitude

It’s a fact: those who are grateful are more uplifting and positive.

By having a positive attitude, you’ll not only feel better, but you’ll also enjoy a vibrant physical health because our body, mind, and spirit are so heavily inter-connected.

Now, that’s something to be thankful for, isn’t it?

As mentioned earlier, by having a positive attitude, you’ll be a magnet for positive relationships.

You’ll attract like-minded, go-getters who will not only inspire you, but push you further.

After all, like attracts like, which is all the more reason to be positive!

Now ask yourself: What do I have to be thankful for today?

Spend a few moments showing your appreciation to your loved ones, colleagues, or any random strangers you meet.

When was the last time you counted blessings?

How does being appreciative help you?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!

July 6, 2018January 8, 2018

Respect yourself if you would have others respect you. – Baltasar Gracian

July 4, 2018January 8, 2018

Find More Time with These 9 Time Management Strategies

In this day and age, we all just seem to get busier and busier. How many times have you said to yourself, “I wish there were more hours in the day?”

Is there some magic formula that can help you get more done each day? No, of course not!

But there are specific things you can do that will help you become more organized and efficient.

In return, you’ll get more time to do the things you always wish you had time for.

Not everyone has the natural ability to get organized and, for some of us, it takes a serious amount of effort and a lot of trial and error to develop organizational skills.

If you’re one of those who weren’t born with the instinctive sense of organization and time management, here are some tips to help you find more time in your day.

If one doesn’t work, simply try another until you find the ones that fit best with your personality and lifestyle.

1. Plan & Schedule Your Day

This seems rather simple, but seeing everything on paper can help you feel in control.

Instead of letting an entire day get away from you and feeling like you’ve accomplished nothing, planning will put some order and structure into your day.

Use a family calendar or personal planner to organize your errands and appointments.

2. Write a Daily To-Do List

Put the most important tasks at the top of your list and get them done first, that way there’s no last minute rushing around.

The majority of your time and energy should be spent on accomplishing these important tasks.

Keep your lists a reasonable length so you’ll feel productive crossing off completed tasks.

3. Don’t Waste Time on Nonessential Tasks

As humans, our tendency is to do the easy jobs first, but these quick and simple jobs may not be as necessary as you once thought.

Before setting your mind to do something, ask yourself “Will this help me reach my ultimate goals or will it keep me from them?”

Cut down your time on unimportant tasks and use those minutes to do something fun for yourself.

4. Delegate Tasks

Delegation isn’t about “passing the buck,” it’s realizing that you can’t do everything by yourself. There is nothing wrong with asking for help when you need it.

Delegate chores to your family or hire professionals.

5. Break Large Tasks Down into Smaller Jobs

This will prevent you from getting overwhelmed. Just focus on each small job, one at a time, instead of trying to paint the whole canvas at once.

Need to reorganize your kitchen or basement? Start in one little corner and focus your attention there until it’s clean and organized.

6. Limit Distractions

I know this can be hard, but if at all possible turn off the phone and close your email program. Simply focus on the task at hand without constant interruptions.

Schedule your most important tasks at a time that offers the fewest disruptions.

7. Live a Healthy Lifestyle

This may seem out of place in this list, but studies show that people who eat right, exercise and get plenty of sleep have more energy to accomplish more during the day. The quality of your work will also improve when you feel healthy.

You don’t need to start a strict training regimen to regain your energy. You’ll see changes quickly by just making simple dietary changes and walking everyday.

8. Take Breaks

When you start to feel too stressed out, get up and take a little walk or do some stretches. When you’re stressed about something your energy isn’t being used on productive work. Instead you become scattered and un-focused.

A well-timed break can actually help you do more in a shorter amount of time.

9. Keep a diary of how you spend your time for several days.

By simply writing down how you spend the minutes in your day, you can re-evaluate the way you do things. Maybe there’s a way you can cut some minutes here and there to allow more flexibility in your schedule.

Effective time management is a key principle to a less stressful life.

Making some simple changes in the way you manage your time can have a huge impact on your overall well-being. So go get started!

How can effective time management impact your daily activities?

What are things you are unable to do because you feel you lack the time to do it?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!

June 26, 2018January 8, 2018

Confidence comes NOT from always being right, BUT from not fearing to be wrong. – Peter T. Mcintyre

June 26, 2018January 8, 2018

Top 10 Self-Confidence Building Tips

A lack of confidence can affect every area of your life, from your job performance to your personal relationships.

In reality, how you perceive yourself has a powerful impact on how others treat you.

Some factors in bolstering self-confidence may be beyond your control, but there are some very tangible things that you can do as well.

Using these tips will help you reach your full potential as a successful and confident person.

1. Dress confidently. Dress like the person you want to be and you’ll feel yourself become that person. When you look good, you’ll feel good.

Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to go out and spend a fortune on clothes.

It’s better to buy a few really nice pieces than a bunch of cheap ones.

2. Walk faster. People who walk confidently keep a brisk pace because they have things to do and places to be.

Simply quickening your step will help you feel more confident.

3. Keep good posture. People can tell a lot about you by the way you carry yourself.

If you have slumped shoulders and cannot look people in the eye, you’ll leave a negative impression on them.

Keep your head up, make eye contact with others, and stand up straight and tall. You have nothing to hide.

4. Be grateful. Gratitude creates a state of peace in the body.

A peaceful mind radiates confidence.

Make a list of the things you appreciate about yourself and be grateful for your past successes.

Tell those you love how much you appreciate them being in your life.

5. Compliment others. In addition to showing appreciation for what you have, it’s also important to show others your appreciation.

If you think negatively about yourself, then you’ll have a tendency to criticize others.

Break this habit by praising others on a daily basis. Seeing the best in others will bring out the best in you.

6. Give back. Contributing to the success of others will not only help you feel better about yourself, but karma will reward you in the end.

What goes around comes around, right?

Volunteer your time to help those in need or make a monetary contribution to your favorite local charity.

7. Don’t be afraid to speak up. Many people keep quiet for fear of saying something silly.

Taking an active role in discussions will distinguish you as a leader amongst your peers.

They will quickly recognize that you have confidence and plenty to offer.

8. Exercise regularly. If you work hard to create a better physical image, you’ll not only be healthier, but you’ll also have more energy.

Both of these things will contribute to your self-confidence, as will the compliments you’ll receive.

9. Sit in the front row. Most of us have a tendency to try to blend into the back of the room somewhere.

We don’t like being noticed.

Confident people sit up front where they can take part in discussions without fear.

10. Take a chance and try something new. Learning a new hobby or activity will broaden your horizons and help you feel “alive.”

Anytime you spend stretching your mind improves your overall self-confidence.

Life’s Lessons

The more self-confidence you build in yourself, the more likely you’ll be to succeed.

No matter what task you choose to conquer, you’ll do so with enthusiasm.

Any setbacks you encounter won’t bother you because you’ll have the confidence necessary to continue.

Those who are insecure often find life to be a struggle, but with self-confidence, you can find it to be a joy.

Why suffer when you can soar!

How confident do you feel when you interact with other people?

How has confidence helped you be the best person you can be?

Talk about that in the Personal Growth Cafe Community!

Before you leave…

Please share the link to this post on your Facebook, Twitter, etc., and like it, and comment right here – THANKS!