The Secret

For what seems like forever I was plagued by fear and insecurity. I doubted my abilities and my worth. I was afraid of rocking the boat. I didn't allow myself to be open and vulnerable with anyone. And eventually I started shutting down.

I shut down my emotions. I stopped voicing my opinion or views. I stopped reaching out. I made myself small and invisible. There was in a constant battle going on in my mind. I often sacrificed my needs and desires for everyone else.

That's no way to live.

I am slowly making my way back to myself. It's hard work! I have journaled like never before. I have spent a lot of time thinking and observing my own thoughts and actions. I have spent time in reflection. And I've cried myself to sleep many nights.

I haven't arrived, but I'm actively working on it. But I like myself!! I'm funny and a good listener. I like to help people and create things. I'm a good person. I don't go out of my way to hurt or offend people. I show everyone respect and give common courtesy  - treat others the way I'd like to be treated.

I don't have to be like everyone else to be liked or loved. I don't have to be a martyr to prove my worthiness. I don't have to do anything I don't want to do. I am in control of my choices and my happiness. It took me a long time to come to that realization. Better late than never!

The secret is learning to be yourself and not being afraid to shine! It's so simple, yet hard to implement especially if you're used to negative thought patterns. Change your thoughts. Get to know yourself. Work on your toxic traits.

Life is too short to be anything but happy!

3 Myths About Simple Living

There are so many misconceptions about simple living so I thought I'd discuss three of them.

Myth #1: You need to have a very plain/sterile looking environment.

If that was the case, I would not be able to do it! I love colors and the feeling of coziness. There is no standard for simple living. It all depends on your preferences and what aesthetic you find pleasing. Just like every person is unique, the way you decorate your home will be also.

Myth #2: Simple Living is about self-denial.

Living simply is about choice. You choose to live a simple life to be happier. You choose it to have more freedom over your life. You can choose to buy whatever you desire but if you're drawn to a simpler way of life, more than likely material possessions are not terribly important to you. 

Myth #3: Simple Living is about retreating from the world and living secluded, like a hermit.

Many may choose to move to a more rural area, but not to retreat or hide away from society. Simple folks may prefer a slower pace of life.They may want more land in order to have gardens and farm animals not allowed within city limits. They may just long for the views and quietness of country life. You can live in a rural area and still have an active social life and attend social gatherings. It's all about the individual and their preferences.

Simple Living is all about choosing what is simple for you. It's about your preferences and doing what makes you feel happy and content. That will look different for every one because everyone is different.

What misconceptions did you have about simple living?

Reinvention

“I thought, I need to reinvent myself. I want every day of life to be wonderful, fascinating, interesting, creative. And what am I gonna do to make that happen?” —Karen Allen

It looks as if the quarantine is almost over. Businesses that were previously closed or restricted from being open before are having those restrictions lifted May 11th. I don't know about you, but for me it was a turbulent time.

I had to sit with myself and my thoughts and uncovered some negative habits and beliefs that I have never had the courage to face. These things brought me endless heartache and pain. I am now consistently working on these things as I turn my life upside down and reinvent myself.

Your thoughts can either empower you or destroy you slowly over time. I am choosing to empower myself and grow into the woman I am meant to be -- because I want to live a life that is wonderful, fascinating, interesting, and creative!

I am becoming aware of my thoughts and learning how to shift the pathways to more positive ones and not assuming I know what others are thinking or feeling. While I cannot change anyone, I can be aware of how my thoughts influence my emotions and ego.

I am learning to become more in tune with my body and intuition by using deep breathing, stretching/yoga, and body scanning (noticing where there is tension in my body). I may add meditation to this as well.

I am doing a lot of journaling. And I do mean A LOT. It's good to get all the thoughts out of your head and onto paper. It is a form of release. Some people scoff at the idea of keeping a journal but the purpose of it is to help you. It's not for others to read. It doesn't have to be pretty or proper. Just get those thoughts and emotions out of you and onto the paper.

So if have found yourself struggling as I had, maybe some of these techniques will work for you?

Warm thoughts, 

Tracy