Are You Using Pinterest to Promote Your Website?

Are you using Pinterest to promote your site?  If not, have you considered it?  It's such a wonderful way to share what you are up to with the visual nature that appeals to most of our readers.

One of the biggest benefits to using Pinterest over another form of social media is how little you need to actually do to have success driving traffic to your site.  This is because others do the work for you by pinning your images.  Here are a few things you want to consider:

• If you haven't, you need to set up an account.


• If you haven't, you need to verify your website for best results.  This also allows business accounts to post Rich Pins which include your logo.


• Have pinnable images on every page.  This means attractive images and, ideally, with a watermark or some other reference to your website.


• Have a Pin It button available so people can easily click it and post your image to Pinterest.


• Share images from other sites that you feel your readers would be interested.  It's nice to share the love and promote others as well.


• Keep an eye on what images have been pinned from your site by logging into your Pinterest account, and going to http://pinterest.com/source/domain.com/ and replace domain.com with your website's domain. Then you'll see all of the images people have pinned from it. This will help you know what your readers are loving.


• Read this article for some great tips on creating great images for Pinterest and more.


• Read this article for more creative ways to use Pinterest for your business.

I'm always looking for easy ways to promote and share and Pinterest is definitely one of them.

 

Bonus! Need help creating a button or widget for your site?  Check out this resource.

If you are looking to use Pinterest and are a client with Be Inspired, we can help you verify your website for best results for just $35 - well worth the money.  Contact Michele at michele@michelebergh.com with your Pinterest log in information, we'll send over an invoice and get 'er done for you so you can focus on what you love to do!

Life Lesson 41: Beauty + Grace Make Life Enjoyable

Last night, as I drove home from spending the day with my grandson, I just had to pull over when these magnificent creatures crossed my path. I pulled over and gently walked closer and closer until I was about 10 feet away from the 4 of them. They didn't seem to mind although they were definitely aware of my presence. I spoke softly to them as I took a few pictures and I thanked them for allowing me to share their space. It was just a nice way to begin my little adventure this weekend.

You see, I'm off for a few days to Chicago with a friend. Traveling with just my backpack, which I have never done before. I'm a bit of an overpacker...you never know what you might need, right!?

But this weekend is all about adventure and trying new things. It's about living with grace and ease and about seeing the beauty in all things. That's why I had to skimp on clothes...I had to make sure there was room in my backpack for my camera, lenses and all. Even though I don't need a fancy camera to catch those special moments, it sure is nice. With my $80 ticket, no carry on bigger than the backpack is allowed. One of my goals this weekend, as well, is to have an adventure without spending an arm and a leg.

I'm so excited to see where this journey goes. Good or "bad", it will be fun and filled with wonderful experiences because that's how I choose to see it. Seeing beauty and living with grace is a choice. I can't wait to share how it goes!

So what are you doing to live your life seeing the beauty and living with grace? Will you make the same choice?

Suzanne McRae - October 2013

Our member of the month feature is a great opportunity to get to know more about the members of Be Inspired U and show them a little extra love that month by doing little things to make them feel special.

October's Member of the Month is Suzanne McRae.  Congrats, Suzanne!  I had Suzanne tell us a few fun facts about herself…

Q: How would your best friend describe you?

My best friend would describe me as a great listener as well as a genuine person that shows compassion, is wise, open-minded, spiritual and inspiring.

Q: What is your favorite thing about yourself?

The favorite thing that I love about myself is that I have found the courage and burning desire to uncover the real me behind the many layers I have accumulated in my life. The idea and possibility of unveiling the real me as God intended me to be, really fuels me to keep working on my issues and doing the healing work that is needed while living my everyday human experience. This spiritual journey has been way beyond any of my wildest dreams.

Q: When do you feel most joyous?

Spending quality time with my family doing the things that we love together is what brings me the greatest joy. That can be anything from a ukulele sing-along at a campfire, to a family vacation or just plain ol’ silliness and laughter.

Q: If you have a business, what would you like to tell us about it?

Last year I created an online presence after taking career coaching. I felt a strong urge be this to do something that was solely for me. I wasn’t sure what it would look like. Writing and creating with my hands were the two things that really stood out for me during those months of being coached. To fulfill that dream, I began to write and blog a year ago, and I also opened an Etsy Shop. In my Etsy Shop I sell whatever I wish to create. Next I’m about to begin exploring how to share about some amazing products I have been using that Young Living Essential Oils company. I absolutely love their products. I’m an independent distributor with this company for the past 3+ years and would love to share about the many benefits that they can bring to your well-being.

Twenty-four years ago I made the decision to be a stay-at-home Mom. At the time we only had our daughter. I thought that we had our life figured out and that I would be a working Mom… AH! Someone else had a plan for me I believe. I love being at home, so for me to do something from home while being there to support our son is what makes sense. My focus has always been family and now equally as important is for me to do what I’m passionate about with the possibility of being rewarded for it financially. I’m opened to all possibilities that fit perfectly with my reality and also with my goals and dreams.

Q: What’s the #1 thing you’d like others to know about you?

I’m quiet, I think of myself as an introvert and am definitely highly sensitive. I’m the mother to two adult children in their early 20’s. Both are unique in their own ways and they journey through life off the beaten path. They have been my greatest teachers. When God gifted me with our son little did I know that at age 3 that he would get diagnosed with autism. It’s been 20 years since his diagnosis and a lot has changed since that day. The challenge I was presented with forced me to dive into the autism world at that time and learn all that was needed to help him. I did that for well over a decade until I felt like I was drowning in the autism world, something needed to change and it was me. Once I made the conscious decision that I had had enough and wanted to find a different way of being, that’s when I discovered Reiki. A door opened for me that day, it was a portal that I chose to walk through that has completely transformed my life and way of seeing my reality, the world, myself and especially my son. This spiritual journey has brought me places that I didn’t know existed. It has gifted me with knowledge and wisdom that only by looking back can I now see more clearly today how it’s enriched my life and that of my family.

Alternative and complimentary therapies as well as energy healing played a big part of that journey since learning about Reiki. I became a Reiki Master and eventually studied with a different teacher and became also a Karuna Reiki Master. There was also Sphe-Re (Sacred Peace Healing Energy), Reiki Crystals, Crystals, Acupressure that I chose to study. Our family also did alternative therapies: Heilkunst, Homeopathy, and Bowen as our choice of healthcare, and I use EFT. Having chosen to walk through the portal on that day several years ago has been unbelievable and even miraculous to me in looking back with how my world would change. Today I try to focus on what needs to be changed and improved still in my life. I work at transforming the energy and continuing to awaken to greater truths. I think of myself as a very ordinary woman living a very ordinary life, yet this whole new world that opened up for me makes me wonder some days who have I become? Yet I believe that I know.

Looking a little deeper you’d likely find all of the following too that reflects more of me… Cleanses, Detoxes, Essential Oils, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), prayer, Angels, Archangels, Ascended Masters, Violet Flame, Animal Totems/Medicine, Symbols, Mandalas, Sacred Geometry, The Law of Attraction, Singing Bowls, Numerology, Astrology. I love photography, gardening, painting, genealogy, knitting, reading, learning and travelling with my family. There are days where I have to pinch myself to see if all of this is really my reality or not. It is.

I’m a truth seeker. I love being at a place in my life where I’m learning to connect more deeply with my Soul and finding the Goddess in me is something that I’m also learning and to be able to reconnect with parts of me that have been hidden and reclaim my inner power.

I live in a little town in Ontario, Canada with my husband, our two adult children and our family dog. I live in the same community that I was born and raised in. I feel very blessed to have the life that I was given, the lessons and gifts that came with it and the family that supports me.

Her Websites

• Suzanne McRae


• Suzanne's Young Living Essential Oils Site


• Suzanne's Etsy Shop

You Can Also Connect Here

• Facebook


• Twitter


• Pinterest

And just how can you make a difference today?

• Connect with her above.


• Comment on one of her blog posts.


• Subscribe to her blog.

Share this post on Facebook, Twitter, or wherever you feel guided!

Life Lesson 40: Go with the Flow + Enjoy Life

Here is it...my birthday already.  I committed to 47 lessons, one for each year of my life, and that commitment remains...it will just take a bit longer than I planned but that's okay.

The lesson I'm sharing today is that sometimes we just have to go with the flow.  Life isn't neat and clean and sometimes gets in the way...sometimes in a good way and sometimes, not so good.  I want to talk about the good things that get in the way.

I am committed to enjoying life and sometimes that means that things come up last minute that really make a difference in the quality of my life and my relationships and so I definitely don't want to miss a thing - the reason this series is taking a little longer - and I'm okay with that!  The time I spend with those I care about is really important to me.  It's also important to do things I really enjoy, both planned in advance and spontaneous as well.  This past weekend included staying at a friend's place, a street dance, and two boat trips on the river - one with friends and one through a company that provides them to the public.  It was so much fun to let loose and play...to meet new people...to spend time with friends...to spend time in nature.  I was exhausted (still kind of am) but it was so worth it.  Soon winter will be here and I'll have these memories to tide me over until the weather is warm again and we can create more memories like this.

Winter has never been a great season for me...I don't enjoy being bundled up and I don't enjoy being really cold but that's going to change this year.  I'm going to do my best to enjoy the weather and find activities I enjoy so I'm not wishing an entire season away before it even begins.  I realize I can create all kinds of memories...the key is being committed to enjoying life and that's where I am at.  If you are a winter person and have activities you love, please share them here.  I'd love to hear what you enjoy...who knows, it might be the perfect activity for me as well.

So allow life to happen and actively be a participant in it.  Go with the flow and have some fun!  You only live once, right?!

[caption id="attachment_8496" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Beautifully free...[/caption]

Life Lesson 39: Sex Is Fun

Well, this is a different topic for me and I really questioned whether I should write this post but the truth is, it's a big lesson I've learned over the years.  I'm not going to go into a lot of detail or anything but I think this lesson is one that should not be overlooked...it's that important, in my humble opinion.

Not only is sex fun and meant to be explored, it is imperative that it occur regularly in a relationship for a relationship to flourish.  Most couples who begin to grow apart find their sex lives decrease around the same time.  In this case, it isn't necessarily sex specifically but it is the intimacy that occurs as a result of sex.  Sex brings two people close together.  It creates connection.  It provides an opportunity to get to know your body in a deeper way and to appreciate it and love it, which improves confidence.  It releases chemicals in the brain that make people happy and reduces stress...all so beneficial in our lives.

We need connection.

We need happiness.

We need to eliminate the negative effects of stress.

We need to have fun and feel alive!

Whether you are in a relationship or not, sexual activity provides so many benefits; it should be a part of your regular routine.  While I am sure there are varying reports out there, I think the last one I read said 4x a week or more is best.  I wonder if that sounds like a lot to you...

When it comes to a relationship, I realize withholding sex was one of the biggest downfalls in my marriage.  It is not a bargaining chip.  Denying each other and myself pleasure was just plain wrong.  It's difficult to feel close to someone without a physical connection.  And when we no longer feel so close, we care less and less about making things work.  All relationships require effort and intimacy is one really important factor in creating and maintaining a sense of intimacy with another person.  Even if we aren't withholding out of anger...maybe it's just being tired...once you get started...it's always fun so why not just say yes?!

And keep it fresh and exciting.  Try new things so you don't fall into a rut.  Laugh and play and experiment.  If it doesn't work out, you still got to have fun and it will create opportunities for even more fun in the long run.  And you can't know what you really, really like unless you try it.

So go out now and get yourself a punch card to Fantasy Gifts (did you know they teach classes as well??).  Go when you have some extra time and ask one of the clerks to show you around, give you suggestions, explain some of those items you may be looking at wondering what the heck is that for.  They've heard it all and there's nothing you could say or do that will shock them and they are quite knowledgeable on the subject of sex.

So get that punch card, bring home some new toys and have some fun!  You'll be glad you did.

[caption id="attachment_8403" align="aligncenter" width="880"] I know I've shared this image before but I couldn't resist sharing it again. Love yourself and others fully.[/caption]

Life Lesson 38: Changing Reality

I've been troubled for some time now. Lots of thoughts rolling around in my mind about something that happened several months ago. What happened didn't involve me really. It wasn't about me at all but it involved someone I cared about a lot.

I've wondered if I'd ever get past it...ever get over it. I've wondered if I wasn't letting it go as a form of self-sabotage...not being able to fully appreciate the good in this area of my life that exists today because this negative experience is nagging, always nagging, me in the back of my mind...in a way, keeping me safe...keeping me from loving fully. I've wondered why living in that pain seemed to be necessary, somehow, for me right now.

Yesterday I read something about how we could change - or neutralize - our negative feelings by imagining a different outcome or different experience as something more positive. It got me thinking about what I would have preferred happened all those months ago.

Interestingly, through all my reflection, I was able to really see and feel deep in my heart that what happened was perfect. The experience is part of what has gotten me to such a positive place in my life in this area. I kind of wished it had ended differently but I wasn't able to come up with something I would prefer until this morning...

And then the answer was there. The truth was there. Truth. Not the crap we make up in our head. Not the assumptions we make based on partial information or no information at all. But the truth. It had been there all along...I was just so wrapped up in the hurt and pain that I didn't see it. How it truthfully ended was exactly what I would have wished, if I'd been able to write the story myself. I can't believe I missed those facts. They were there in print...in black and white...available for me to see all along. But I didn't see it...I wanted to feel like a victim. I wanted to wallow in my self-pity. Why? I have no idea but it was serving me somehow. And now I could let it go.

This lesson ties into the lessons I've learned about perception...how powerful perception can be whether it's truth or not. It ties into our ability to manifest. By stepping off that wheel of fear and into my heart, my reality changed. The outcome of that situation was perfect in every way. It always was. I just couldn't see it before.

Today my heart is full of love and appreciation for the truth.  For being able to see it.  For being able to love fully, without hesitation and without feeling a need to keep myself safe.  Because I am safe in every way simply because I allowed myself to open up to the truth and shift my reality.

[caption id="attachment_8492" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Life is a journey. Be willing to step across the bridge.[/caption]

Life Lesson 37: Kindness is the Only Thing That Really Matters

Kindness is really the only thing that matters in our quest for happiness and joy.  Kindness of self and of others.  Here are a few quotes to inspire you...

Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love. ~ Lao Tzu

A warm smile is the universal language of kindness. ~  William Arthur Ward

A part of kindness consists in loving people more than they deserve. ~ Joseph Joubert

Truth is a deep kindness that teaches us to be content in our everyday life and share with the people the same happiness. ~ Khalil Gibran

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted. ~ Aesop

[caption id="attachment_8486" align="aligncenter" width="686"] Honoring nature on a road trip I took spur of the moment this summer.[/caption]

Life Lesson 36: The Value of Regret

There is no value in regret.  Let it go and move on.  Focus on creating a life without regrets from here on out.  Live life fully.

Here are a few quotes to inspire you:

"When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us."  ~ Alexander Graham Bell

"I never regret anything. Because every little detail of your life is what made you into who you are in the end." ~ Drew Barrymore

"Forget regret, or life is yours to miss." ~ Jonathan Larson

"I have no regrets in my life. I think that everything happens to you for a reason. The hard times that you go through build character, making you a much stronger person." ~ Rita Mero

"Always Do Your Best. Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret." ~ Miguel Angel Ruiz

"There is nothing to regret - either for those who go or for those who are left behind" ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

"If we spend our time with regrets over yesterday, and worries over what might happen tomorrow, we have no today in which to live." ~ Unknown

[caption id="attachment_8482" align="aligncenter" width="393"] Oil tinting on black and white photo I did. The girl reminds me of myself as a young child and she looks very free.[/caption]

Life Lesson 35: I Am Never Alone

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.  ~ Audrey Hepburn

[caption id="attachment_8480" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] We are never alone.[/caption]

Support comes in many forms.  We are truly never alone.  Rejoice in that awareness.

Life Lesson 34: You Miss Life When You Look at the Your Feet

When I look out on Facebook or Twitter or Instagram, I often see pictures of feet.  It has become quite common for people to take pictures of their feet which is very interesting to me.  While cute and interesting, I can't help but think about a lesson I learned many years ago...

I took a workshop with Nischala Joy Devi during my year long intensive yoga teacher training program I was taking at the time.  Nischala is a wonderful woman with a kind and gentle spirit.  I learned many things from her that weekend but the one that stood out the most was about living life with an open heart.

She had us all stand up and look at our feet as we wandered around the room.  We didn't look at each other or really even acknowledge there were others in the room.  We just went about our business, while staring at our feet.  This is how most of us live our lives...head down, nose to the grind...just doing what we need to do.

Then she had us all look up as we wandered around the room...look around...eventually moving into making eye contact with one another silently...just acknowledging each other's presence.  This is what it feels like to live life with an open heart.

We miss so much when we stare at our feet.  Look up so life doesn't pass you by. Look up and love what you see.  Connect with others through your open heart.  Connect and love each other.

[caption id="attachment_8479" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Amazing clouds I might have missed, had I been looking at my feet.[/caption]

Life Lesson 33: I Want a Best Friend

Someone to spend the rest of my life with...so I must be my own best friend first and then be open to inviting another in.  And I need to focus on what I want in that other person (and be that myself - I wrote about this here too).  That's how it works.

Don't be fooled by the tough exterior of the one who says she doesn't want any relationship at all...she was wrong.

Yes, I was.  Relationships take work but that doesn't mean they aren't worth it.  Having someone to share your dreams, your passions with...priceless.  Having someone to lean on...to laugh with...to love...priceless.  And what better person to do that with than a best friend.

When I look back at my marriage, there are several things I can see that I did "wrong." I don't mean that in a judgement sense...I did the best I could but I see things differently now.

Moving forward, I know...

• I must be my own best friend first.  I must truly enjoy my company and have things in my life that I get excited about.


• I must focus on what makes me happy.


• I won't nitpick or point out things that could have been done differently.


• I will be of service...wanting to make their life better...easier.


• I will not lose myself in the process.


• I will look for new experiences to enjoy together and apart.


• I will give them space to breath.


• I will continue to care for myself both for myself and for them.


• I will find ways to connect and be intimate.


• I will be the best friend I want in another first and foremost.

I recently came across a great article about mistakes not to make in a marriage and thought he had some great points...some are lessons I identified and some were things I hadn't thought of...all great stuff!  I thought you might enjoy it too!

[caption id="attachment_8478" align="aligncenter" width="685"] This gentleman is clearly his own best friend, doing an activity he loves - fishing in Duluth, MN.[/caption]

Life Lesson 32: I Am A Powerful Manifestor

When I am in a space of love and gratitude, I am always amazed at what comes my way.  I know I'm on the right path because the Universe shows me every day.

Whenever I even have a small passing thought about whether I'm doing the right thing for my business, new business shows up.

When I decided recently I really needed to plan a bigger vacation...not just wanted but truly needed it...three opportunities showed up in just a couple of days.  When I booked the plane ticket for the first one I chose, the following day twice as much money showed up on my door step AND it was completely unexpected.

All I need to do is get clear, focus on my heart, be grateful for what I have already in my life and wait for it to show up.  It's like this for all of us.  You have the same opportunities available to you...we all do.  What will you manifest today?

[caption id="attachment_8476" align="aligncenter" width="855"] My grandson - it's easy to stay in a place of love when I look at this smiling face.[/caption]

Life Lesson 31: Intuition – Our Truest Guide

Over the years, I have worked to develop my intuition for a variety of reasons.  I started working on it because I wanted to simply get better and "hearing" and was open to wherever it led me.  It wasn't easy at first.  I had a hard time distinguishing between everything I heard and felt inside.  I think, sometimes, that pushing it was what made it difficult.  Feeling anxiety around getting things right...wanting to get information in a specific way instead of honoring the way it naturally comes in for me...these things held me back.

Eventually, it became more and more clear and, while I don't always get it right, when I am able to stay in a place of love and allow myself to be still and listen, it never steers me wrong.  It's there to guide me in the right direction.

We all have this opportunity...to listen to that still, small voice inside who will always guide us in the right direction.  It will never steer you wrong either.  Trust your intuition and use it...that's what it's there for.

[caption id="attachment_8475" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Love the tree and gazebo at Minnehaha Park.[/caption]

Life Lesson 30: Sometimes I Am Wrong

I have never liked admitting that sometimes I am wrong but, the truth is, sometimes I am.

And sometimes, instead of trying to figure something out, I'm just going to tell you I don't have the answers.  Because I don't.

I used to think I needed to be right and I needed to always have answers but that's just another belief that's bullshit.  It isn't true and it isn't who I am.  Sure I like to know stuff...a lot of stuff.  I'm a total sponge but I don't have to know it all and I don't have to solve everyone's problems.  That isn't my role in life and that's okay.

And I like to be right.  I like to be viewed as a resource and it feels good when people look to me for support and information.  But I can't always be right.  It's not possible for any of us to be right all the time.  And that's okay too.

It's exhausting to maintain a position of always being right and knowing it all.  Really exhausting.  And I'm tired of being tired.

Truth is...

I'd rather be happy than right and I'd rather play sometimes than always have to have an answer for everything.  It's a much more enjoyable way to live.

[caption id="attachment_8474" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] A very cool tree at Minnehaha Park that looks to me like a woman reclining and just enjoying being in that space in the midst of the creek.[/caption]

Life Lesson 29: Live in the Moment

Worrying about the future will get you nowhere.

You can't change the past and regrets will tear you apart.  Let them go.  You did the best you could with the knowledge you had.

Focus on the present moment.

It is the only moment that matters.

Enjoy all it has to offer you.

Don't miss a thing.

[caption id="attachment_8472" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Sunset at my home earlier this summer.y D[/caption]

Life Lesson 28: Control is a Myth

It's true.  I am a recovering control enthusiast.  Sounds so much nicer than control freak, doesn't it?  I have struggled with needing to feel like I'm in control most of my life.  I know there were things in my childhood that started this pattern and it's a hard one to break.

But the truth is, control is just a myth.  It isn't real.  The only thing we can truly control are the choices we make in our lives.  Everything else is out of our control and, the harder we fight to control them, the more out of control things will seem.  Fighting for control gives us a false sense of security.  It is just an illusion.

So how do you know if you are a control enthusiast?  Here are a few tell-tale signs:

• You believe if someone changed a bit, you'd be happier.


• You don't believe in imperfections.


• You try to make everyone fit into your expectations, which are often quite unrealistic.


• You judge other's behavior as right or wrong.


• You need to "know" things.


• You have a hard time with vagueness.


• You make others responsible for how you feel...it's their fault you feel a certain way.

How can you begin to shift this behavior?  Here are a few suggestions:

• Allow your true self to show.


• Be mindful of your expectations...are they realistic?


• Be direct.


• Communicate with people open and honestly and in a timely manner.


• Life is full of unknowns.  Enjoy the mystery.


• Learn to go with the flow.

[caption id="attachment_8471" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Going with the flow and just enjoying "being" at Minnehaha Falls.[/caption]

Life Lesson 27: Changing Another Is Impossible

Can't be done...if you want something different from someone, ask how YOU can be more like what you want.  Confused?  I know it's a tough nut to swallow but the good AND the bad you see in someone else is on your radar because you possess those same qualities.

In the case of something you don't care for...it may be something from your past but not how you currently move through your life.  It may be something current that looks completely different but the under current is the same. For example, I had a friend who's need for attention drove me nuts.  She had all these subtle behaviors that would occur during meetings and such as a way of saying "look at me" and I could hardly stand it.  It took me six months to figure out what the common denominator was because I didn't do the things she did so I couldn't figure out why it bothered me so much.  Well, I did have a desire to be seen and often felt like I wasn't and it bothered me a lot...I just carried victim energy around rather than doing anything about it, positively or negatively.  That was a tough one for me.

Recently, I was having some difficulties around someone in my life who I felt wasn't being a person of integrity (I know, judgement).  It was really bothering me so I sat down and took a look at the behaviors that were causing concern for me and started asking myself where those behaviors show up in my life.  I made a list of what it means to me to be a person of integrity and I began to manage my life by asking myself how a person of integrity would handle various situations that came up and I moved forward from that space.  In a very short time, my relationship with that person shifted.  Those concerns have not been there for quite some time and I am living my life with a new area of focus to ensure I attract people of integrity into my life moving forward.

So stop trying to change others.  Stop judging their behavior.  When something surfaces for you...ask yourself where it's showing up in your life.  Can't figure out what it is?  Try asking a trusted friend who you know will be honest with you to talk it out with you until you figure it out.  Once you identify and acknowledge what it is, you can make choices about how you want to handle it moving forward.  You'll be amazed at the results.

And don't forget to acknowledge the good things too!

[caption id="attachment_8469" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Flowers at Minnehaha Park. Love the one purple one that stands out...although they are all beautiful.[/caption]

Life Lesson 26: Never Give Up

Sometimes something in your life will seem very difficult and you'll want to give up.  Don't.  Check in with yourself. Make sure it feels right.  Make adjustments, if needed. But don't give up.  Most of the time, you will find success just beyond the point you want to give up.  Allow good things to happen in your life.  Be open to them.  Check in with your gut often. Stay grounded and centered.  And keep on going down that road!

[caption id="attachment_8466" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Amazing tree roots at Minnehaha Falls.[/caption]

 

 

Life Lesson 25: The Only True Problem is My Own Monkey Mind

Our mind can be both a blessing and a curse.  It stores a lot of information and can be helpful in solving problems.  BUT it also creates a lot of problems.  My mind tells me stories it has completely made up...both good and back.  It makes assumptions.  If I'm not in a good place, it looks for all kinds of bad things in my life to point out to me.  It's amazing to me how many decisions I've made over the course of my life from made up information in my mind.  Decisions not based on any facts whatsoever.

I remember being at a workshop many years ago where we talked about how to tell if it's real...if it's facts we are working with or crap made up in our head.  The measure was to ask ourselves if the story would stand up in a court of law.  As we picked apart our stories, we discovered that much of it would not stand up...because it just wasn't true.  Much of it was hearsay or made up by our monkey mind.

Sometimes it feels like a full time job to manage my monkey mind and it can be exhausting BUT worth the effort.  When I am able to stay in a place of love...to keep my heart open...my monkey mind is quieted and I am able to be clear from a place of compassion and love and make decisions that support me in a much better way...a healthier way...a loving way.

I find I am able to keep my heart open when I practice mindfulness...when I spend time in nature, connecting to the energy of the earth.  I must remain grounded and centered and notice when I'm not so I can make adjustments in my life.

[caption id="attachment_8461" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Monkeys at the Como Zoo[/caption]

What do you do to quiet your monkey mind?

Life Lesson 24: Beauty All Around

Beauty is there in everything...we just have to be willing to see it.

While these aren't all great pictures...they are all great moments in my life.  And the purpose here is to find the beauty in everything, regardless of what it looks like on the surface.

[caption id="attachment_8454" align="aligncenter" width="563"] Old letters found at a thrift store.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8458" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Two best friends hanging out together.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8457" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] The sun setting behind the clouds.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8455" align="aligncenter" width="563"] A bed of beautiful flowers.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8452" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Amazing Clouds[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8459" align="aligncenter" width="948"] An old truck found at a thrift store that used to be an "everything you need" kind of store where someone shopped as a young child. This truck represents the reconnection of positive childhood memories.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8451" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Spending the day with my grandson, Finn, at the Maple Grove Community Center.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8453" align="aligncenter" width="563"] Butterflies enjoying the company of a young girl at the fair.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8449" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] A great summertime concert for someone special's birthday.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8448" align="aligncenter" width="563"] Minnehaha Falls on a beautiful day.[/caption]

 

What do you see in your world?  Are you looking around you?  What do you see?

Life Lesson 23: Stuff Sucks

Life Lesson 21 was all about how your outer environment is simply a reflection of your inner environment.  It is so easy to collect stuff throughout our lifetime.  My biggest vices, personally, are books and papers.  I don't know why I've had such a hard time managing these two things but they always seem to spiral out of control.  But stuff is just stuff.  Nothing more...nothing less.

And it gets in the way.

In the way of living in a peaceful and nurturing environment.

In the way of finding what we need easily.

In the way of having the life we want.

It's just in the way.

I've developed a couple of tools that help me (although it is something I have to keep an eye on all the time).

I pick something up and ask myself...

• Is it making me money?


• Do I LOVE it?


• Am I using it?

The second one is to get rid of something every time I bring in something new.  So if I get a new article of clothing, I have to get rid of at least one thing already in my closet.  If I get a new book, it has to fit on my bookshelf

What tools have been most effective for you and what can you eliminate today so you can find yourself in a peaceful and nurturing environment?

 

[caption id="attachment_8447" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Crow Wing Crest Lake in Akeley...such a peaceful view[/caption]

Life Lesson 22: Sing Like No One is Listening

And who gives a crap if they are listening??  Do it for you.  Sing loud, sing proud and enjoy life!

Thought you might enjoy this video...

Life Lesson 21: The Reflections of Our Environment

I've noticed lately that I have been in a purging pattern.  I look around me and see so many things that I don't need to have around...and I'm ready to let them go.  I've cleaned out closets, clothes, furniture, papers, books, etc.  It's such a good sign for where I am in my life!  It's time to let go of all the old that no longer serves me.

After all, our environment is only a reflection of our inner self.  If you are surrounded by clutter, it's because your soul is cluttered. Look around you today.  What do you see?  Dishes done?  Laundry complete?  Garbage out? Or not??

Do your soul a favor and take a look at your environment...what is it telling you?  Is there something you need to work on?  Something causing you grief?  Something you need to let go of?

 

[caption id="attachment_8442" align="aligncenter" width="575"] Sunset at the Lake 4th of July Weekend. Such a beautiful reflection.[/caption]

If you want to make space for something in your life like a new relationship or job or money...make space in your closet!  It's amazing what it can do for your life to have a clean and uncluttered environment around you.

 

Life Lesson 20: Tough Choices

Sometimes you have to make the tough choices to get what you want in life.  These choices can be very difficult to make AND they make the biggest difference in your life.

When I left my job, it was three years after I knew that I needed to do so.  It took me that long to gain the courage and strength I needed to make that big change.  I wrote my resignation letter 6 months before I actually turned it in and carried it around with me so the energy would be out there...that, when the time was right, I would know and I would be ready.

I literally woke up one morning and knew it was the right time and I made it happen.  The couple of years that followed were very challenging financially.  My husband lost his job just a few weeks after I quit mine.  Had it happened beforehand, I wouldn't have left.  I know the Universe was making sure I did what I needed to do rather than staying out of fear.  Even with those challenging times...the stress that became a part of my daily life...I have never looked back and felt like I wished I'd stayed.  That job was killing me inside and sometimes you just have to go through a little crap to find the beauty out there waiting for us.

[caption id="attachment_8440" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Grass is always greener when the tough decisions are made[/caption]

Someone once said that the biggest problem with America is complacency.   We are too "okay" with status quo...even when it sucks.  I know I've avoided many decisions...sometimes never making a change I know I need to make or taking a really long time to make it...many of us do.  I've remained miserable longer than I needed to because I was afraid.  I can tell you, without hesitation, that no decision I've made has had a more negative impact than staying in an environment or situation longer than I should have.  Yes, sometimes things were tough for a while but I have still never regretted making a tough choice and now I am committed to making the tough choices as soon as things become clear to me.

How about you?  If the status quo isn't good, it's time to make a change. What have you been tolerating in your life for way too long?!

 

Life Lesson 19: Happiness Comes From Within

Happiness comes from within. It is not dependent on external things or on other people. You become vulnerable and can be easily hurt when your feelings of security and happiness depend on the behavior and actions of other people. Never give your power to anyone else. ~ Brian L. Weiss

[caption id="attachment_8437" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Cute little guy, hanging out at the zoo, doing what makes him most happy.[/caption]

No amount of searching anywhere else will bring it into your life.  Focus on who you are and what brings you peace, joy and a sense of freedom.  In this space you will find happiness.

Linda Hall – September 2013

Our member of the month feature is a great opportunity to get to know more about the members of Be Inspired U and show them a little extra love that month by doing little things to make them feel special.

September's Member of the Month is Linda Hall.  Congrats, Linda!   I had Linda tell us a few fun facts about herself…

Q: How would your best friend describe you?

I believe my friends would describe me as having the same qualities I appreciate in friendships including loyal, trustworthy, honest, kind, patient, thoughtful, humorous, and of course fun!

Q: What is your favorite thing about yourself?

I like that I am a compassionate and caring person. I enjoy being of service to others, which is reflected in my long-time career path in healthcare. I have many diverse interests and love to learn; in fact, it seems there aren't enough hours in the day to learn and try everything I have an interest in.

Q: When do you feel most joyous?

I feel most joyous when my life is in balance. I enjoy expressing myself through work, but also enjoy time with family and friends. Being an introvert, I also need alone time to read, create through arts and crafts, and of course, to recharge.

Q: If you have a business, what would you like to tell us about it?

I still work in a traditional healthcare setting, but am inching my way towards spending more time focused on alternative methods for health and healing including Healing Touch, Reiki, and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). My business name is Kibou Healing Arts and you can find me at www.kibouhealingarts.com I also have a Facebook business page at https://www.facebook.com/KibouHealingArtsLlc.

Q: What’s the #1 thing you’d like others to know about you?

Such a deep question! To keep things light, I would like people to know that last winter, I took a community education class to learn how to make upcycled mittens out of old wool sweaters and fleece. In about a month, I had hit at least four different Goodwill stores and made somewhere around 35 pairs of mittens! Once I got started, I couldn't stop! Luckily we had a craft fair at work and I sold all but two pairs that I gave as gifts.

Her Website

• Kibou Healing Arts

And just how can you make a difference today?

• Connect with her above.


• Comment on one of her blog posts.


• Subscribe to her blog.

Share this post on Facebook, Twitter, or wherever you feel guided!

Life Lesson 18: Throw Caution to the Wind

I know that yesterday I wrote about proceeding with caution and it may seem odd to be writing today about throwing caution to the wind, but I really am talking about two different things.

Sometimes, in life, we need to be willing to "just do it."  We need to go for the gusto and make life happen.  Risks help us grow...they are the only way we grow.

There are three levels of risk we can take...

The first is a stretch...meaning it's just a little outside our comfort zone and probably isn't going to shift much in our life.

The second is a risk...meaning it's more than just a little outside our comfort zone and it will take some courage and perhaps a few deep breaths to accomplish.

The final level is called a die...meaning it will life-changing when you do it because it's just that big.

I've taken big risks in my life and blogged about some of them.  Here and here.   Also here and here.  And here and here.

With each risk, I've grown and I've become more comfortable with taking more risks so I can create a life I love.

Explore life with a gentle curiosity (and sometimes a not-so-gentle curiosity).  Be willing to take risks...at all three levels.  And watch yourself and your life magically transform.

[caption id="attachment_8436" align="aligncenter" width="768"] Curious little guy at Centennial Park[/caption]

Life Lesson 17: Proceed with Caution

Things are rarely as they seem.

Sometimes we think we have all the information we need to move forward with a decision or direction in our lives but we don't.

Sometimes it's because we've made up stories in our minds, rather than looking at facts only.

Sometimes it's because our emotions are getting in the way of seeing things clearly.

And sometimes we just don't have all the information.

I used to feel a lot of anxiety when it came to making decisions.  Truth be told, I still do in many ways.  However, I've found ways that work for me to manage that anxiety.

The most effective tool I have found is to not allow pressure put on me by myself or others force me to make a decision before I am ready.  It's important for me to give it some time to sit so I am not making decisions out of fear...out of made up stories...out of anything except love and with as many facts as I can.

This applies to all decisions and letting things sit for about 24 hours seems to work best for me.  Sometimes it takes longer, depending on how big of a deal it is.

So when I say "proceed with caution," you might be shocked to hear that tomorrow's post is entitled, Throw Caution to the Wind; but I simply mean to give yourself the space you need, a safe space, to allow something to just "be" for a bit before deciding how to move forward.

[caption id="attachment_8435" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Lake Peppin[/caption]

Have you found other tools that are helpful when making a decision about something in your life?

Life Lesson 16: Pull Out That Stick

While I did play some as a child, work always came first.  In the summer, we'd have a list of chores (most likely crafted to keep us out of trouble) and we weren't supposed to play until they were all done.  I've carried that philosophy into my adult life and always felt that work had to come first and work is never done.  Two more beliefs that are bullshit - just in case you are wondering.

I also didn't have a lot of freedom to just hang out with my friends in high school, first probably because I went to a school that was about 45 minutes away from my home so I didn't have many local friends and then in my last couple of years, I just wasn't given the freedom to be a kid.  There always had to be purpose to the plans being made, or so it felt.  I had an earlier curfew than my friends and was embarrassed by it so I just made up excuses whenever I'd be invited to do something.

Then I had my first child at 19 so I moved right into being a parent and I needed to grow up pretty quick.  Being married to an alcoholic also affected my perceived ability to just be free and relax and have fun.  I was always the driver and I always had to worry about the kids.

So many factors that have made it difficult for me to let my hair down and just have a good time.  And what a loss...in so many ways.  I have often been viewed as stand-offish or even anti-social but really I was just always on alert and never felt like I could just have fun.  I have missed out on events because I just didn't want to be the driver or go only to end up taking care of the kids in a strange location so I'd just stay home.  And, frankly, I didn't even know how to play.

But playing is really important.  It is just about doing something fun...about relaxing...about not having a drive or purpose (other than to have a good time).  It's about laughter and friends and family.  Play lights us up inside and fills our soul.

And so I am learning to play...slowly pulling that stick out of my ass.  Here are a few of my recent play dates (sometimes with others and sometimes with myself).

[caption id="attachment_8431" align="aligncenter" width="686"] Day long road trip by myself...not planned in advance.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8432" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] One of my many bike rides this summer[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_8433" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Watching the hummingbirds at Crow Wing Crest in Akeley[/caption]

 

 

 

Life Lesson 15: Living Inspired By Design

If you want a wonderful life...an inspired life...you must create it.  It doesn't happen by default.

Design the life you want today.

It's that simple.

[caption id="attachment_8430" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Heart-shaped Branches and Leaves[/caption]

Life Lesson 14: Clarity is #1

If I am not clear about what I want, I can't attract it into my life.

Monday, I was on a call with my coach.  I was sharing with her that I wanted to take a vacation and wanted some help breaking it down and figuring out how to make it happen.  You see, I had lost out on two vacation opportunities this fall that I thought I had scheduled and I was feeling hurt and disappointed.  I needed to shift this into something that I was excited about and would take care of my needs.  And I do mean needs, as my coach gently pointed out on our call.

You see, I identified a few years ago that I really NEED to get away a couple of times a year.  Once in the spring and once in the fall.  Without it, I feel like something is off. So this truly is a need for my well being.  So planning a trip is necessary for my well being.

So I had started with this dream vacation plan that involved about 3 weeks time and about 5000 miles.  I was working on scaling it down and finding a route that would fill my needs and desires and feel doable.  My coach began sharing tidbits for travel...a subject she knows well...and things began to take true shape.  My big aha's during that conversation included:

• This isn't the only opportunity for a trip in my life and I don't need to do it all at once.


• There are lots of ways to make something happen...be open to the possibilities.


• I am great at manifesting when I become clear.

Within 15 minutes of hanging up that phone, I had the foundation of a doable vacation laid out that involved water, large trees, mountains, alone time and time with family.  And 10 minutes after that, I had someone email me offering me a spot in their van for a road trip for this fall to the other location that was on my list as really important to me and something I wanted to do soon!  Then she let me know she was also looking to go to another location on that same trip for a weekend and that location would provide me the opportunity to visit another friend who has invited me to stay with her any time.

I was so overwhelmed by my good fortune, I started to cry and actually had to get up and move around to release some of the energy I could feel coming in.

The Universe is more than willing to help a girl out but I have to provide a clear road map.  If I don't know what I want, how can I expect it to show up?

Take some time today to get clear in your life about what you want.

Consider writing it down, creating a vision board, whatever it takes to make it real...to put it out there...and watch as it shows up.

[caption id="attachment_8429" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Road trip to Lake Peppin in Wisconsin September 2012[/caption]

Life Lesson 13: Do You Want to be Happy??

Years ago, while watching Dr. Phil, he posed a question to a guest that really hit home for me.

He asked if they wanted to be right or if they wanted to be happy.

Yep, I have been a "right-fighter" for most of my life...needing and wanting to be right no matter what.

Not any more.

I don't need to be right.  I don't need to argue with someone over something that really doesn't matter in the big picture. And guess what??  Most of what we argue about doesn't matter...it REALLY doesn't!

I just want to be happy.

That's it.  Happy.

[caption id="attachment_8425" align="aligncenter" width="576"] At the Tomato Fest this summer. This guy was dancing around and just appeared to be enjoying himself in every aspect.[/caption]

I'm currently reading the book, The Untethered Soul, by Michael Singer.  I just got to a section of the book where he talks about there really being only one question to ask yourself...do you want to be happy?

Don't qualify the answer.

The question is not if you want to be happy and what it will take to get there.

It's not about whether there are certain things in your life that will take away from you being happy.

It's simply do you want to be happy?

Icky crap is going to happen no matter what.  Ultimately, we still want to be happy, right?  Isn't that what it's all about?

That's what I want.  Can I do that no matter what is happening in my life?  I know I will experience moments of doubt...of grief...of sadness...of disappointment.  None of this needs to take away from my overall ability or desire to be happy.

Desire is where the energy goes...I desire to be happy...no matter what.

So what's it going to be for you?  Do you want to be happy?