Living your Life's Purpose

On Tuesday I will be facilitating a class dedicated to the discussion of Living Your Life's Purpose.  As I woke up this morning and the world was quiet and still I began to think about our collective purpose on this earth.  What are we here to do? I believe we all have purpose.  Some will carry out amazing feats, some may make small but significant efforts and others may just be living their daily life making an impact and never knowing how meaningful their actions are.  

I have become aware that living a life that has purpose also makes us healthier in body and mind. I clearly see that the variety of things that I have done in my career have been steering me to this place, as a life coach.  And now that I am here I am grateful, excited and ready to make a difference in the lives of the people I meet.  

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.
”

— Lao Tzu

Do you have a path that you've been on that you believe is directing you to your career purpose? Or are you stuck?...Afraid to make a step away from what is comfortable?  The unknown is scary but the rewards of finding your way can be overwhelmingly satisfying.

But, you may ask, What about your personal life's purpose? Sometimes your career and life purposes are intertwined.  Examples would be Nelson Mandela, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. or Mother Teresa.  Since I'm no Mother Teresa I have been on a search to find my purpose in the world.  As I began this journey of discovery I was reminded not to be drawn into the cause of the month but to the place where my heart lies.  Because with true belief in the cause, one that makes me passionate and focused on the goal I will be unstoppable. And so will you.

Have you found your passion? Do you know where to look and how? 

 In the words of Julie Andrews otherwise known as Maria from the Sound of Music  "Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start"

So I hope you will join  us on Tuesday, it's a very good place to start. 

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,

Lorraine

Living in America

“You will be our President when you read this note. I wish you well. I wish your family well. Your success is now our country’s success. I am rooting hard for you.”

— George H.W. Bush

This Friday we will swear in a new President.  No matter where you fell politically this past election year you were probably left with some bruises. However, recently I read the letter George H.W. Bush wrote to Bill Clinton on January 20, 1993 as President Bush was leaving the White House and President Clinton was arriving. He wrote "You will be our President when you read this note. I wish you well. I wish your family well. Your success is now our country's success. I am rooting hard for you."

It appears to me that we would all do well to hear these words ourselves on January 20, 2017. We may not agree with what President elect Trump says or does but our country made a decision that will set the course for the next 4 years.  After which time we will again be able to make a decision.  We are fortunate to live in a country that we have the right to vote, the right of free speech and the right of religious freedom to name a few.  So, with President Bush's words in mind, I will be rooting for President Trump because his success is our countries success and after all is said and done I believe I live in the best country in the world and I want only the best for this our United States of America. Although,  I do have a wish that President elect Trump read and take to heart the words of President Theodore Roosevelt. "The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people."

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,

Lorraine

Living Prepared

If you are from an area that had the threat of snow thrust upon you this week, I have one question for you.  

Did you have to go to the grocery store?

Isn't that always the big joke, people running out for bread and (almond) milk? 

Why are most of us ill-prepared?  

We live in an age of daily grocery shopping and last minute runs to the mall.  What happened to a time when we casually picked up cards, gifts and items we needed ahead of time?  What happened to being prepared? 

When I grew up my mom and dad went to the grocery store on Wednesday night after work.  Only on that day were groceries purchased.  My mom with her list and coupons in hand selected the same items each week for our meals.  She knew exactly what she needed and how much the bill would be.  She was efficient and predictable.  Campbell's tomato soup and cheese its would be on the table for lunch on Sunday after church, just like I never doubted that on Friday we would have frozen fish sticks and that on Saturday morning bacon, eggs and toast would fill my plate.  The interesting thing is that she never seemed rushed or off balance because she lived her life then and now prepared.  Just as I knew the sun would rise today I know even to this day that she will be eating a 1/2 of a bran muffin for breakfast with a cup of coffee and a small orange juice. So, this leads to my next question

 Have we lost the art of balance in our life?

Or can there be too much balance and organization.  Although, my mom was able to keep everything moving efficiently in our home she never stepped outside her box to explore other options - did she miss out, has living this way for so long made her too judgmental? Or did living this way keep her feeling grounded and secure? Only she can answer those questions for herself, but my question to myself and each of you is....

Do you want to be the person running to the store before the storm or do you want to be the person who drives by on their way home with groceries and life's essentials waiting for you?

For me, it's a mix of both.  I absolutely hate going to the grocery store every day so I strive to go no more than twice a week.  But I also like to prepare different meals and shake things up in the kitchen.  So my goal is to organize my life but always have a little spice around the edges. I have begun this journey with the help of a book called "the life changing magic of tidying up" by Marie Kondo. Organizing my home has been amazing and I am enjoying the time saved by having an organized space.  I have always organized my calendar and work diligently to prepare the best use of my time, but I am recognizing that I have too many things on my daily lists to do in one day, unless I wake up earlier and go to sleep earlier.  This is my latest challenge and I am stepping up to it with excitement and joy.   

How prepared would you like to be?  How will you achieve your balance? Is an organized life what you strive for and are you prepared to obtain these goals? Take a moment to think about your day.  Do you spend it running after what needs to be done and then collapse at the end of the day exhausted and feeling incomplete because you didn't accomplish some or anything you wanted to... or are you able to enjoy life and feel the presence of each day... or possibly you are somewhere in-between.  

If asked, my advise would be to take some time to be still.  Allow your mind to empty and relax and then formulate your plan for balance and take small steps to achieve it.  In a world that pulls us from here to there it is difficult to be still and focused, but taking the time each day to be in the present, to breath deeply and appreciate the moment can release the tension on your mind and body and open you up to a refreshing peace and clarity.  Preparing for the day, the week, the month, the year can be freeing and may just allow you to appreciate the moments in life. 

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,

Lorraine

Living Renovation

Current Project

Current Project

Last year I renovated my kitchen. My first thoughts were how fun and exciting it would be.  But if you are like me you don't do well with disruption especially in the kitchen. One week turned to two, then to three and so on,  some contractors (not all) were unreliable and in the end I became the 'overseer" of the project.  This was really not good.   I was totally ill prepared to deal with some of the professionals leaving on Friday at 3 p.m., when there was still work to be done just because it was Friday at 3 p.m. or other people showing up 4 to 5 hours late continually if they arrived at all.  But mostly, I was ill prepared because I was expecting things to work in an organized way even with 7 different companies working on the project at the same time.  So, with my ignorance in tact I scheduled my granite on the same day that I was installing the sink/stove/potfiller/dishwasher, along with the electrician who was rewiring and installing lighting,  the stove fan installer, the gas line installer and the floor installers.  I thought I had planned out the time everyone would arrive, how long each job would take and what needed to be done.  Clearly, if you've ever done any home improvement you are shaking your head and laughing  at me as you read this. When it comes to home renovation there is never a clear schedule. 

Surprisingly, we made it through.  And I now have a beautiful kitchen and I am all the more wiser.  

So...when we decided to buy and renovate a lake house I took my history with me and have changed my ways.  I have recognized that I have to wait for things to be done right.  That the subfloors need to go in first, the cabinets on another day, the floors yet another day, the plumber and electrician during and after everything else.  I have also had to recognize that even though everyone is spaced out on the calendar it doesn't mean that everything will be done on that day.  If I continue to be patient and remember that all will happen in time then I will have a beautiful cabin.  

But don't we all want everything to be done right now? Do we ever lose that childlike desire to get what we want when we want it?

My experiences have helped me to learn patience and with that patience I am able to see the fruits of waiting for everything to be done at the right time. Can this practice be brought forth in our lives elsewhere? Can we wait to lose the 10lbs. by eating and exercising the right way or do we need to take that pill or go on the unhealthy diet to lose the weight far too quickly to maintain? Can we train for the 1/2 marathon over months or do we need to jump in before we are ready and injure ourselves, can we begin a new journey toward peace within without expecting to feel something during the first church service or meditation or do we give up when the lighting bolt doesn't come down immediately from the sky.  

I clearly remember being a kid and waiting for the next birthday, Christmas, being tall enough to ride the go-carts, being old enough to go to youth group retreats and so on....

I remember these things so clearly because I had to wait, I had to anticipate.  It made each one more exciting.  Achieving instant results can be gratifying  for the moment but waiting for things can bring a lifetime of memories.

As we enter into this new year - I hope you will join me on my journey of patience.  Let's start 2017 taking our time and knowing that the rain eventually brings a rainbow and hard work with dedication will bring long term positive results. 

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,

Lorraine

Before & After

During

T'was the week after Christmas

I always find this week to be interesting.  Christmas celebrations are over and New Year celebrations are only a few days away.  Some of us will take down the trees and put away the tinsel and bows while others will wait until the Epiphany on Friday, January 6.  

For those of you who are not familiar with the Epiphany.  This is the 12 days between Christmas and the recognition of Jesus with the arrival of the Wise Men.

No matter how or when you clean up the wrapping paper and tree needles it does seem like a time of new beginnings and fresh starts.  The house reverts back to it's pre-Christmas appearance, the celebrations are about to end as everyone returns to work and school. 

I had a wonderful Christmas.  Filled with family, friends, lots of laughter and love.  But now I'm ready to clean up and restart.  Not necessarily making resolutions but an undertone of excitement of what this New Year can bring.  Thoughts of how I can be a better person. As you clean up, what are you thoughts? Do you want a change in your life? If so, how do you plan on making these changes and sticking with them? 

As I reflect back on my many resolutions or decisions to change I recognize that I always start with great intentions. Ready to seize the day! Whether the goal is to:  Lose the Weight, Exercise More, Educate Myself, Keep a Organized and Clean Home, Be On-Time (I'm still working on this one), Become More Connected Spiritually, Volunteer More.....I could go on and on. But in the end many times I falter and then try again the next New Year.  Something gets in the way, there's not enough time, I take on more than I can handle or the chips and dip are just too tempting to resist.  

So...How Do You Stay Committed to Change?  Many times the things we do are all about repetition, routine, accountability and letting go of the ideas that block you from success.  What if  this is the year you make the changes that last.  But it takes more than an idea on New Years Eve.  It takes a plan, it takes support and it takes the confidence in yourself to know you can succeed.

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.
”

— Antonine de Saint-Exupery

This year plan out the changes you want to make, know how they work into your schedule, connect with a life coach or a personal trainer, join a gym, buy the running shoes, or closet organizer, get a fresh calendar, write your goals down and read them every day twice a day, write a budget and make sure it is feasible, start visiting churches and find the one that fits - not just on Sunday but for events, classes and activities. It's time to plan your work and work your plan.   The time is now, to make your wishes, desires and dreams a reality. 

““Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to great places. You’re off and away! You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself any direction you choose.” ”

— Dr. Seuss - Oh, the places you'll go!

I wish each of you good healthy, happy living and the confidence in yourselves to plan and make the changes you want in your life.  

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,

Lorraine

Graceful Living Group Classes

I am so excited!

The first of what I hope to be many group classes will begin on Tuesday, January 17 at Level Creek UMC. in Suwanee, GA.  A place that is rich in history, love and kindness.

I will be teaching 4 different classes based upon Living our Best Lives.  

We will kick off on January 17 with Living Spiritually.  This class is going to dig deeper into our spiritual selves.  No matter where we are in our walk we will be able to find a renewed vision for where we want to go.  

Then on January 24 we will jump into Living our Life's Purpose.  How many times have you come home disappointed in your job or feeling like your not doing "something" you should be doing.  We will spend time unearthing the things that make you feel alive and excited.

On January 31 it is time to start Living Healthy.  We are all looking for ways to live a healthy life but schedules, desires and missteps may time take us off track.  Why is that? Why do we put ourselves and our health last on the list? Why don't we have the commitment needed to continue our good eating and exercise habits all year long and not just the first week of January.  This class will help us to start looking at ourselves in a very different way and open our minds to what might be holding us back from success.  

And to finish off our series on February 7 we will discuss Living what you Believe.  This topic will make you think and consider what actions you can take to propel your beliefs forward.  Not just your spiritual beliefs, but everything you believe from political to environmental and beyond. 

I hope you can join me.  As said, I am so excited to have the opportunity to work with people, helping them to find their way in the world and find peace within themselves.  

For more information about registration and fees check out my Registration Page at www.gracefullivingcoach.com.

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,

Lorraine

Is it really December?

It is hard to believe that another year has come and gone.  As this year ends, I, like many of you  reflect on what I have or have not accomplished.  

When January arrives will you be making resolutions for the new year?  As a list maker I guess I will be starting a new list.  A list filled with daily needs and wants, a list filled with cleaning and grocery shopping but also a list of hopes and dreams for today and the future.  

I envision a year with a thriving business.  A business I believe in.  I believe in it because I know Life & Spiritual Coaching is important.  I believe in it because I know everyone can use someone to talk to that is unbiased.  I believe in it because I believe that every life has a purpose we just need to uncover that purpose.  

I envision a year of good health for myself and my family.  One that is filled with wise, educated choices.  A year of cooking delicious meals that nourish our bodies.  A year of exercise with weight training and cardio as I prepare for my 1/2 marathon in Sarasota, Florida.

I envision a year with a clear mind.  Finding peace within through faith, family and friends.  Meditation, prayer and a faith community filling my soul and releasing any frustration and angst that may enter into my life.

I envision a year meeting new and interesting people.  Learning, reading and growing in my education and teaching others what I have learned.

I envision a year of happiness.  

What do you see in your future? Write it down in detail.  Truly see it.  Take the time to envision your life in 2017 and then make it happen. And always remember the immortal words of Dr. Seuss.

““Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to great places. You’re off and away! You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself any direction you choose.” ”

— Dr. Seuss - Oh, the places you'll go!

I wish each and every one of you a year with all your visions coming true.

Merry Christmas and a may you have a truly blessed New Year!                  

Grace, Peace & Healthy Living, 

Lorraine

Photo by Blackzheep/iStock / Getty Images

Graceful Reading

If you aren't reading "The Book of Awakening" by Mark Nepo daily.......Start.

His insightful and inspirational text each day fills me with hope, calm and thoughtfulness.  His personal story is yet another inspiration so I also highly recommend you investigate the author as well.  With all of that being said, today I decided to give you "The Book of Awakening" by Mark Nepo - September 26 - Putting Down Pain. This passage explains exactly why I think Life Coaching can be Life Changing. 

September 26

Putting Down Pain

The time has come to put our stones down.  

For hands clutching stones can't freely drum. 

And hearts fisting the past can't freely sing.

It only took me a lifetime to learn.  But the lesson is as profound as it is simple.  As long as we clutch to one thing - be it a stone, or rail, or weapon - our hands cannot open or reach for anything else.

The timeless and essential drama of living into the unknown resides in this simple sequence.  We must risk putting down the stone or stick or gun we are grasping, in order to build or touch or make music of any kind. 

It reminds me of a friend who wouldn't let go of his past.  He clutched it like a rope and was afraid that if he let go he would fall.  But as long as he fisted his history in this way, he couldn't embrace the love that was before him and so, he never healed.

It is unavoidably true: hands must be emptied before they can be filled anew.  It is the same with our hearts.  It is why courage, day by day, is necessary.

Graceful Breathing

When was the last time you took a minute to breathe? 

Just closed your eyes, relaxed and took deep slow breaths.  

Last year I discovered meditation.  It is for me a time to stop and rest my mind.  There are many ways to meditate such as someone talking you through it, using word or words to focus on such as a mantra, or one of my favorites breathing.  Focusing on your breath. As you focus on your breath you can clear your mind from the thoughts that intrude.  It can be difficult and sometimes close to impossible.  I find if I just pay attention to my breathing every time a thought enters I am able to come back to a mental/emotional stillness.  I picture what my breath would look like swirling in front of me as I breath in and out, what color would it be - pink or blue usually come to mind.  But after, after time of mind silence, time reflecting on this beautiful human occurance of breathing I am stilled.  My thoughts are clear and I can go through the day with a certain peace, a calmness that I can't quite explain.  I am able to organize my thoughts and be more creative. 

Since I've started meditation I have often said to my husband after a difficult conversation with someone in customer service for example - "There just lucky I meditate now." Those who know me, know me for having had a short fuse.  I'm happy to say I am able to control my frustration and appreciate people and experiences more.  I don't feel that tightness in my chest as if I'm ready to explode at any moment.  

I've also learned what I notice when I don't meditate.  I feel anxious and angry, uncomfortable and unhealthy. I'm no different from everyone else, when times get busy I walk away from the things that are best for me.  I stop meditating, make poor food choices, don't exercise, etc.  But then I reflect on my choices or lack of good choices and I ask myself:  Why would I walk away from the things that keep me healthy? 

You don't have to subscribe to a meditation program or join a class or meditate for an hour unless you want to. But you can sit down, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Picture the air entering your body, flowing through it, cleansing it and nourishing every part of you. What colors do you see? And how do you feel after taking a few minutes to regroup and refresh.

Our Graceful World

To live gracefully in my personal dictionary is to live with love and kindness to others and ourselves along with an appreciation for the world that has been given to us. 

I had an opportunity last week to mark off a bucket list item.  It may seem small to most but to me it was an adventure.  I have wanted to paddle board for the longest time.  So, while in Hawaii off I went into the ocean with my board and paddle.  And I couldn't have been happier.  

I used my yoga instruction to help with balance and low and behold I stood up.  Not for long mind you.  Yoga or not, I'm still a klutz. But I stood up and paddled over the waves and through the water as I looked at the beauty that God has blessed us with.

Mountains, sand, beautiful water and amazing trees and cliffs surrounded me.  I couldn't help but think about this wondrous place and how fortunate we are to live here.  You don't have to be in Hawaii to appreciate the wonder of nature.  You can be in your backyard or at a park or on the lake or river.  Beauty is everywhere that has been touched by God.  Too often we forget to look on a daily basis. Take a moment look around you and think about how awe inspiring creation is. And think about your bucket list. What's on it? Go do something today big or small - check off one of your adventures.