What if the path to peace lies not in the fight, but in surrender?
When we think of survival, we often imagine a battle—a struggle to overcome the odds, to push through obstacles. For many of us, survival mode becomes second nature, a necessary defense against the hardships life throws our way. But what happens when we transition from merely surviving to fully accepting? What does it mean to let go of control and embrace life’s unpredictability through radical acceptance?
When I sat down to pick this month’s topic on “Radical Acceptance: Survival to Surrender,” I was reminded of my own journey. There were times when survival was all I knew—navigating challenges as a mother, healer, and entrepreneur. It was a constant juggle of responsibilities, all while trying to keep my head above water. I was exhausted but determined. That survival mode kept me going, but it also held me back from experiencing true peace.
I learned the power of surrender after a particularly overwhelming period in my life. I was facing so much uncertainty, trying to control every little detail, but nothing seemed to work. It was in that moment of desperation that I realized—maybe it wasn’t about controlling the situation, but about surrendering to it. Radical acceptance isn’t about giving up; it’s about understanding that some things are beyond our control, and that’s okay. It's trusting that there is growth, wisdom, and peace to be found in that surrender.
This shift from survival to surrender became a foundational theme in the life I am co-creating with God. It’s a reflection of the freedom that comes from letting go, from accepting life’s challenges without judgment, and allowing ourselves to feel everything without resistance. This month in our meetup group’s journaling social, each prompt is designed to guide you toward this understanding—moving from a mindset of struggle to one of grace, allowing yourself to be in flow with life.
How to Begin Your Own Journey Toward Radical Acceptance
If you find yourself constantly fighting against the current, feeling the weight of needing to “do more” or “be more,” radical acceptance might be the key to your peace. Here are a few ways you can start incorporating this mindset into your daily life:
- Acknowledge your reality: It’s essential to see things as they are, without judgment. Whether it’s a difficult situation or an emotion you’ve been avoiding, acknowledge it without labeling it as “good” or “bad.” This is the first step toward releasing resistance.
- Practice mindfulness: Staying present is a powerful tool for surrender. When we let go of the need to control the future or dwell on the past, we open ourselves up to the possibilities of the present moment.
- Release judgment: Oftentimes, the hardest part of radical acceptance is letting go of our inner critic. Pay attention to the way you speak to yourself—replace harsh judgments with compassion and curiosity.
- Start small: Surrendering doesn’t have to be a grand act. Begin with small moments—whether it’s letting go of the need to fix someone else’s problems or accepting that some days you won’t have all the answers.
- Seek support: Radical acceptance is a personal journey, but it doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Sharing your experiences with others, journaling, or even seeking guidance from a trusted mentor can help you navigate this transformative process.
Radical acceptance has been life-changing for me, and I hope that this journal becomes a meaningful tool for you. There is freedom in the surrender—freedom to live fully, embrace who you are, and trust that you are enough.
Ready to Embrace Radical Acceptance?
If you're looking to explore more on this topic and dive deeper into your journey, my book It's All in Me!: My Journey to Freedom & Living Abundantly is a great place to start. In it, I share personal stories and insights about finding peace through surrender and how you can move from survival mode to truly living abundantly. You can grab your copy HERE.
Take this next step toward your own radical acceptance—what's holding you back from surrendering to a life of peace and purpose?
Have you ever looked back at a past relationship and thought, “What was that meant to teach me?” Relationships aren’t just about people; they extend to places we’ve lived, jobs we’ve held, and even habits we’ve nurtured over time. Each one leaves a mark, a lesson, or a gentle (or not so gentle) nudge towards growth and self-awareness.
Reflecting on Past Relationships: My Journey:
As I sat down to create this month’s content on "Lessons from Past Relationships," I found myself diving deep into my own past. It was a journey through the people I’ve loved, the roles I’ve taken on, the routines that defined my days, and the habits that both served and hindered me. Some of these relationships brought joy and fulfillment, while others were filled with challenges that tested my resilience. Yet, each one taught me invaluable lessons that I carry with me today.
One particularly memorable period was when I was adjusting to life as a new mom. I had this vision of what motherhood should look like—a perfect home, a perfect schedule, everything under control. But as any mom knows, the reality is often far from perfect. I found myself overwhelmed, trying to juggle the demands of motherhood with a premature son who was born 10 weeks early, a toxic marriage, business, and personal expectations. It wasn’t until I paused and reflected on my own unrealistic standards that I realized I was stuck in a cycle of perfectionism that was draining my joy. That relationship with perfection taught me that sometimes, "good enough" is perfectly okay, and that embracing the messiness of life can be one of the most liberating lessons of all. Done is better than perfect is something I leaned on heavily during this season. Especially when 6 weeks after giving birth to my first child, I found myself pregnant with our next.
Lessons from Places: Finding Your Grounding:
Have you ever felt out of place somewhere, like your energy doesn’t align with the environment? Just as we learn from people, places can teach us about what we truly value. A city can show us whether we thrive in fast-paced environments or prefer the tranquility of nature. A job can reveal if we find purpose in our work or if it’s time to seek something more aligned with our passions.
Reflecting on these past relationships with places helps us become more intentional about where we choose to spend our time and energy. It’s not just about the physical location, but about finding environments that nurture our souls.
Lessons from Things: The Objects We Hold Onto:
Our relationships with things—possessions, routines, money, even social media—also have lessons to teach. I once clung to a career path that looked perfect on paper but felt empty in practice. It took a lot of soul-searching to admit that my attachment to the job was holding me back from pursuing my true calling.
Letting go of that career was one of the hardest decisions I’ve made, but it taught me that what we hold onto often holds us back. It’s about releasing what no longer serves us to make room for what truly aligns with our values and goals. Being 33 and still unclear about my career path, makes me question that decision to this day, but I am following God’s lead in this season so everything can become clear.
Practical Steps for Learning from Past Relationships
Here are some practical steps you can take to reflect on and learn from your past relationships with people, places, and things:
- Journaling: Start by writing about your past relationships, not just with people but with places and things. What feelings come up? What patterns do you notice? Journaling can help you uncover deeper insights about your experiences.
- Identify Patterns: Reflect on recurring themes in your relationships. Do you often feel unappreciated? Do you find yourself staying in situations that drain you? Recognizing these patterns is the first step towards breaking them.
- Set Intentional Boundaries: Whether it's with people, jobs, or environments, setting boundaries is essential. Define what you need to feel balanced and fulfilled, and make those needs a priority.
- Letting Go: Sometimes, we hold onto things out of fear of the unknown. Practice letting go of what no longer serves you, whether it’s a toxic relationship, a draining job, or even an old habit.
- Celebrate Growth: Acknowledge how far you’ve come. Celebrate the lessons learned and the growth achieved, no matter how small.
Embracing the Lessons and Moving Forward:
Our relationships, in all forms, are powerful teachers. They help shape our identities, reveal our strengths and weaknesses, and guide us towards our true paths. As you reflect on your own past relationships, remember that each experience, whether positive or negative, offers valuable insights.
If you're ready to dive deeper into your own journey of self-discovery, consider exploring my 30 Day C.A.L.M Life Planner designed to help you take your life from chaos to calm by uncovering and breaking the cycles that no longer serve you. Embrace the lessons from your past and step boldly into a future aligned with your true self.
I'd love to hear from you: What is one lesson you've learned from a past relationship with a person, place, or thing? Feel free to respond via email or share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s continue this journey of growth and healing together.
Have you ever wondered how the patterns of your past influence your present, and what power lies in the words you speak over your life? This month, we delve into the profound themes of breaking cycles and speaking blessings, exploring how we can transform our lives through intentional actions and positive affirmations.
My Experience with Breaking Cycles and Speaking Blessings
Picking this month’s theme was an enlightening experience. The process allowed me to reflect deeply on my own journey and the importance of these themes. Breaking cycles refers to identifying and overcoming destructive patterns or behaviors that have been passed down through generations or developed over time. Speaking blessings involves using positive, faith-filled words to declare goodness and favor over our lives and the lives of others.
Reflecting on my journey, I was reminded of a time when I struggled with self-doubt and fear of failure, a cycle that seemed unbreakable. However, through intentional effort and prayer, I began to speak blessings over myself, declaring confidence, success, and divine favor. This shift in mindset and language brought about a remarkable transformation, breaking the cycle of negativity and opening doors to new opportunities.
The Power of Breaking Cycles
Breaking cycles is about more than just changing behaviors; it's about healing and transforming at a deep, fundamental level. In the Bible, Romans 12:2 (NIV) says, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This verse reminds us that change begins within. By renewing our minds and breaking free from harmful patterns, we can align our lives with God's purpose and plan.
Personal growth requires self-awareness, courage, and perseverance. It's a journey of identifying the cycles that hold us back and taking steps to overcome them. This might involve seeking therapy, practicing mindfulness, or simply being more intentional about the choices we make.
The Impact of Speaking Blessings
Speaking blessings is a powerful practice rooted in faith and positive affirmation. Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) says, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." This scripture highlights the profound impact our words can have. By speaking blessings, we declare life, hope, and goodness over ourselves and others.
In my own life, I have seen the transformative power of words. When I began to speak blessings over my health, career, and relationships, I noticed a shift. Not only did I feel more hopeful and empowered, but I also saw tangible changes and blessings manifest in my life. This practice has become a cornerstone of my daily routine, reinforcing my faith and guiding me toward a more fulfilling life.
Practical Tips for Breaking Cycles and Speaking Blessings
Here are some practical steps to help you break cycles and speak blessings in your own life:
- Identify Patterns: Take time to reflect on your life and identify any recurring negative patterns or behaviors. Journaling can be a helpful tool for this process.
- Set Intentional Goals: Once you’ve identified the cycles you want to break, set specific, achievable goals to create new, positive habits.
- Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to seek support from friends, family, or professionals. Breaking cycles often requires a strong support system.
- Practice Positive Affirmations: Start your day with positive affirmations and declarations. Speak blessings over every area of your life, believing in the power of your words.
- Stay Rooted in Faith: Draw strength from your faith and the promises of God. Regular prayer and meditation can help reinforce your commitment to positive change.
- Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Every step forward is a victory on your journey of transformation.
Conclusion: Embracing a Life of Purpose and Blessing
This month’s first journaling social has reinforced the importance of breaking cycles and speaking blessings. Each participant’s journey was unique, but we all shared the common goal of creating positive change in our lives through intentional actions and faith-filled words.
As you embark on your journey, remember that transformation is a continuous process. Be patient with yourself and trust in the power of your words and actions. By breaking cycles and speaking blessings, you can create a life of purpose, abundance, and fulfillment.
I’d love to hear from you: What cycles are you working to break, and how are you speaking blessings over your life? Feel free to respond via email or share your thoughts in the comments below.
Have you ever wondered what drives you at your core? What ignites a fire within you and gives your life meaning and direction? These questions have guided me on a profound journey of understanding purpose and passion, the central themes of this month’s journaling social.
My Journey of Purpose and Passion
Creating this month’s journaling prompts was both an enlightening and deeply personal experience. Purpose is the compass that directs our actions and decisions, giving our lives meaning and direction. Passion, on the other hand, is the fuel that energizes and motivates us to pursue our dreams with enthusiasm and dedication.
Reflecting on my own journey, I was reminded of a pivotal moment when I realized my true purpose. It’s often taught that we have to discover our purpose. One day I was sitting in a personal development seminar and they said, “You are your purpose. There is only one you and no one else can be you.” The joy and fulfillment I felt knowing that my presence contributes to the well-being of others was unlike anything I had experienced before. This moment of clarity helped me understand that my purpose was to make a positive impact on the lives of others by being the most authentic version of myself.
For me, my passion lies in helping women heal, grow, and manifest the lives they deserve. I believe in aligning spiritual and financial paths to create limitless abundance and fulfillment. When I align my daily actions with my purpose and passion, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment and joy.
Why Purpose and Passion Matter
Understanding our purpose and passion is crucial for leading a fulfilling life. Purpose gives us a sense of direction and helps us navigate through challenges with resilience. Passion provides the motivation and energy needed to pursue our goals with dedication and enthusiasm.
When we live in alignment with our purpose and passion, we experience greater satisfaction and meaning in our lives. We become more engaged, motivated, and capable of overcoming obstacles. This alignment also fosters a deeper connection with ourselves and others, creating a sense of community and shared purpose.
Practical Tips for Embracing Purpose and Passion
If you’re on your own journey to discover and embrace your purpose and passion, here are some practical tips to support you:
- Reflect on Your Values: Identify your core values and consider how they can guide your decisions and actions. Aligning your life with your values can help you find your true purpose.
- Explore Your Interests: Engage in activities that genuinely interest and excite you. Notice what brings you joy and fulfillment, and seek ways to incorporate these activities into your daily life.
- Set Meaningful Goals: Establish goals that align with your purpose and passion. Break them down into actionable steps and celebrate your progress along the way.
- Seek Inspiration: Surround yourself with people and environments that inspire and motivate you. Learn from others who are living their purpose and passion, and draw inspiration from their journeys.
- Embrace Change: Be open to change and new experiences. Sometimes, discovering your purpose and passion requires stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring uncharted territories.
- Practice Self-Reflection: Regularly take time to reflect on your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Journaling can be a powerful tool for gaining clarity and insight into your purpose and passion.
Conclusion: Living a Life of Purpose and Passion
At this month’s journaling social in The Mental Wealth Social, we will explore the transformative power of understanding and embracing our purpose and passion. Each participant’s journey is always unique, yet we all share a common goal: to connect deeply with our true selves and support each other in this process.
As you embark on your journey of self-discovery, remember that it is a continuous, evolving process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each step forward. By aligning your life with your purpose and passion, you open the door to a life of greater fulfillment, deeper connections, and unshakeable inner peace.
I'd love to hear from you: What ignites your passion and gives your life purpose? Feel free to respond via email or share your thoughts in the comments below.
Have you ever paused to consider how well you truly know yourself? What if the key to a more fulfilling life lies in understanding your deepest thoughts, emotions, and behaviors? These questions have guided me on an enlightening journey toward self-awareness and authenticity, themes that took center stage in this month’s journaling social.
My Journey of Self-Awareness and Authenticity
Picking a topic and journaling prompts for this month was a deeply personal experience. For The Mental Wealth Social and my business in general I have a topic I focus on each month. It’s usually something I’m working on, dealing with or that those around me are working on or dealing with. As I delved into the concepts of self-awareness and authenticity, I found myself reflecting on my own life. Self-awareness, the ability to understand our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, acts as a mirror, revealing the intricate patterns that shape our lives. Authenticity, on the other hand, is about living in alignment with our true selves, making decisions that reflect our core values, and embracing our genuine identity.
During this process, I was reminded of a recent moment of self-discovery and growth. It was an ordinary day, yet something extraordinary happened. I noticed how I reacted to what could have been a major setback – instead of frustration, I felt a sense of calm acceptance. Instead of a meltdown I went to God first and it was quickly resolved. This realization was a breakthrough, highlighting how much I had grown and matured. It was a testament to the power of self-awareness, showing me that personal growth often comes in subtle, almost unnoticed shifts. Usually, how we respond to a situation determines the outcome.
Why Self-Awareness and Authenticity Matter
Self-awareness is crucial because it helps us recognize our strengths, weaknesses, and triggers. This recognition is the first step toward personal growth and better decision-making. When we are aware of our inner workings, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.
Authenticity, meanwhile, empowers us to live genuinely. It builds trust and fosters deeper connections with others. When we are true to ourselves, we attract relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. Authenticity liberates us from the pressure of conforming to others' expectations, allowing us to express our true selves freely.
Personal Reflections and Insights
Reflecting on my journey, I realized that self-awareness and authenticity are deeply interconnected. By understanding ourselves better, we can live more authentically. For example, identifying my core values helped me make decisions that felt true to who I am. It also allowed me to set boundaries, protecting my mental and emotional well-being.
One of the most powerful practices I embraced was regular self-reflection in my 30-Day C.A.L.M Life Planner. Taking time each day to reflect on my experiences, thoughts, and emotions allowed me to gain deeper insights into my true self. This practice of daily self-check-ins has become a cornerstone of my journey, providing a consistent space for growth and understanding.
Practical Tips for Embracing Self-Awareness and Authenticity
If you're embarking on your own journey of self-awareness and authenticity, here are some practical tips to support you along the way:
1. Journaling: Set aside time each day to journal about your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Allow yourself to explore the depths of your psyche with curiosity and compassion.
2. Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to quiet the chatter of the mind and connect with your inner wisdom. Focus on your breath, and allow yourself to sink into a state of deep relaxation and inner peace.
3. Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities that allow you to express your emotions and experiences tangibly. Whether painting, writing, or dancing, find a medium that speaks to your soul and allows your true self to shine.
4. Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself as you navigate the ups and downs of your journey. Remember that growth is a process, and each step you take is a testament to your courage and resilience.
5. Reflect on Core Values: Spend time identifying your core values. Reflect on recent decisions or actions to see how well they align with these values. This can help ensure that your actions consistently reflect your true self.
6. Embrace Vulnerability: Allow yourself to be vulnerable with others. This can lead to deeper, more authentic connections and foster trust and understanding.
Conclusion: Embracing Your True Self
Through these journaling sessions and the rich discussions they sparked, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of self-awareness and authenticity. Each participant’s journey was unique, yet we all shared a common goal: to connect deeply with our true selves and support each other in this process.
As you embark on your journey of self-awareness and authenticity, remember that it is a continuous, evolving process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each small step forward. By embracing your true self, you open the door to a life of greater fulfillment, deeper connections, and unshakeable inner peace. Let's continue this journey together, one reflective moment at a time.
I'd love to hear from you: What does living authentically mean to you, and how has self-awareness played a role in your life? Feel free to respond via email or share your thoughts in the comments below.