Happy Wednesday my friend!

This week as I was thinking about what I wanted to share with you, it came to mind that one of the biggest joys in my life is something I haven’t shared much about.

Not because I don’t think about it, or because it’s in any way difficult, or it’s something I don’t think you would be interested in, but because it’s such a continuous part of my life, I just kind of forget it’s there.

What I’m talking about is reading.

Most of the time, I have 3-4 books going at the same time. And that will hold true until one of them really captures my attention and I plop myself down and read it until I finish it.

I did just that this past Sunday.

(Our book club is meeting next week, so I wanted to finish up our book, The Women, a novel by Kristin Hannah, and I picked that baby up and didn’t put it down until I got to the end. (I liked it ok, not great, but ok, IMHO.)

The thing with books and reading is it’s such an easy way to add joy to your life. Whether you like mystery (my favorite!) adventure, science fiction (Yuck!) romance, or a combination of all of these (would WOULD that be like I wonder) there is a book you will enjoy I promise.

So much better than watching our screens, reading transports you, reduces your stress, improves your vocabulary, enlarges your capacity for empathy (fiction), and even teaches you things you would otherwise have no idea of!

Plus, of course, it’s fun!

Now I’ve always been a voracious reader. I won reading awards starting in 1st grade and my favorite vacation (to this day!) is the week I spent on the Greek island of Corfu, alone, with just my sunscreen, sunhat and 23 books! (In the days before Kindle, I actually took a suitcase full of books with me!)

If you don’t like the actual reading a book part, I get it (sort of) but lucky you, you can find similar joy by listening to the books. My daughter is an audio learner, doesn’t really like to read, but does enjoy listening to books.

If this is an area you’d like to explore, you can do it easily and for free!

Just google where your local library is. Then go by and get a free library card. Then, you can check out paper books, ebooks, audiobooks, and even access thousands of magazines and newspapers via their online app.

If it’s been a while since you picked up a book just for fun, I’d encourage you to take this email as a reminder of the something magical that’s awaiting you just on the other side of the cover.

Love you and cheering you on,

Christy

The post An Easy Way to Add More Joy appeared first on Christy Largent.

It’s one of those miraculous spring days here in Texas with the sun shining in a cloudless sky, the air cool and perfectly warm, with just a hint of a light breeze wafting around your body… (ahhhhhhh.)

And it’s just that “Ahhhhhh” feeling I want to discuss with you today. That “Ahhhhhh” can easily turn into “Awe” and when it does, we’ll be all the better for it.

Psychologists tell us that cultivating wonder and awe are two ways we can all be just a little bit happier. Plus, living in awe and wonder helps us to take our eyes off ourselves, turn our attention outward, and even increase our creativity.

As you can imagine, allowing for space to find that wonder and awe can be a bit difficult in our crazy, overwhelming world.

Thankfully, you don’t have to go on a mountain adventure in Colorado to experience awe. (Although that would be wonderful too!)

It’s finding the wonder and awe in every day that helps you as you go through life.

Don’t wait for the grand moment, instead, you can seek them out little by little:

–While you’re driving in traffic, turn on a classical station and lose yourself in the mystery and magic of music

–When you walk outside to pick up the morning paper, slow yourself to look up into the sky, breathe in deeply, savor the fresh green all around you, and say thank you to a God who gives us all things lavishly.

–The next time you see a soft, round baby in the cart at the grocery store, don’t just rush on by, but stop and smile at that baby. Smile at the Mama and speak a blessing on that sweet family.

And that’s the beauty of it. Wonder and awe are all around us just waiting to be discovered…

Even these little things will bring you wonder and awe.

All of them are reminding you there are so many things much bigger than yourself.

And that’s a great starting point for enriching your life and helping you enjoy life more.

Until next week, remember, as always, I’m

Cheering you on,

Christy

P.S. If you’re anywhere near the path of the total eclipse heading our way next Monday, I’d encourage you to take a break, get some ​eclipse glasses​, and go outside to experience the wonder and awe of this amazing world in action!

P.P.S. If this conversation about wonder is interesting to you, you’ll want to check out ​this new book ​by Philosopher Helen De Cruz. She does a really good job of discussing the transformative role of wonder and awe in this uncertain world.

The post Finding Your Wonder and Awe appeared first on Christy Largent.

Happy Monday from sunny Texas. My 16-year-old is off on a school mission trip to Greece, and my sweet 20-year-old is covering the amazing South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin for her newspaper (The Daily Texan), so Tom and I are enjoying an unusually empty nest this week…changes all around!

It’s March! March Madness is just around the corner and my thoughts go back to watching my college Basketball team. Do you remember the excitement of a close game? Back and forth the score went…up by 3, then up by 6, then down by 4, then back up…it was so exciting!

And then in the final seconds, with just 2 points separating the score, your school’s favorite player grabs the ball, races down the court, stops at the top of the key, sets himself, lifts his arms and lets fly the most perfect net-swishing 3-pointer and the game is yours!

You scream and jump and laugh and hug your friends and scream some more. Your body is suffused with happiness and good feelings! Your energy is off the charts and you, along with all your friends surge forward as one, racing onto the gym floor to celebrate together.

Ahhhhhh – deep breath. It’s so fun reliving that moment in my mind.

And this, my friend, is the magic of fully experiencing your feelings. Your body becomes fully alive and you are completely immersed in the sensations generated by your thoughts.

Hmmmm. So what does that example have to do with your life today?

Just as powerful as your thoughts and feelings were back in college, they are the same today.

You think about all you have to do, and you’re suddenly so tired you can’t move.

You think about the last “discussion” (ahem) you had with your spouse, and you can literally feel your blood pressure rising.

You think about the odd comment the mammogram technician said to you this morning when you got your annual mammogram, and your breathing suddenly becomes shallower and your chest tight.

The key in all these examples is how powerful our thoughts are. And how quickly our body will respond.

So if you’re struggling with low energy, apathy, or lack of motivation, I suggest you might want to take a look at what you are spending your time thinking about.

Because when we habitually think difficult thoughts, or maybe we shut those difficult thoughts and feelings down with buffering behavior like eating, drinking, shopping or gossiping, we are shutting down the energy flow.

Just like the energy flow of positive thoughts is overwhelming and all-consuming and like a supercharge to your system, the effort it takes to stop and block the difficult feelings is like a huge, heavy, wet blanket for your energy.

So the next time you’re feeling sluggish, try these quick fixes:

–Step outside and walk 50 steps in either direction…bonus if you move your arms and clap your hands and smile at the sky. Think about the beauty all around and the gratitude you have for being able to move.

–Stand up from your desk, take a deep breath in, lift your arms and eyes to the ceiling, smile big, and say “thank you” out loud…then let the air out, drop your arms, and repeat several times.

These simple physical movements can refill your energy tank and get you back on track.

Then, the next time you feel yourself wanting to go eat, (my issue), drink, scroll, shop, or whatever your buffering actions are:

–Sit still, take a few breaths, and look deep to see what feeling is actually happening inside. I feel my difficult feelings in my chest and am often overwhelmed with the need to get up from my desk and head into the kitchen when I feel an uncomfortable one…I’m working on sitting still to actually identify what the feelings are.

–Then take another deep breath, let the difficult feelings flow and write down the name of the feeling and the sensations I’m experiencing. Shortness of breath, tight chest, upset stomach, buzzing in my ears…how do your difficult feelings present? There’s almost always a physical sensation to match them all.

–Sit still a moment longer…and often you’ll discover that once you let yourself actually feel the emotion and you identify the physical experience of that emotion, you can be curious about the sensation, and soon the emotion is actually gone.

You didn’t die. Nothing really happened except you allowed the emotion, experienced the emotion, and then moved on.

If you regularly allow yourself to do this exercise, you’ll learn a lot about how your body responds to emotion.

You’ll discover what thoughts generate the various feelings you have, and you’ll learn to notice when your body is telling you something your mind hadn’t even registered.

It’s fascinating, isn’t it?

I hope these little suggestions are helpful for you. The world needs you at your maximum energy output! So put these into practice and let me know how it goes.

Love you and Cheering you on!

Christy

The post How to Find More Energy appeared first on Christy Largent.

It is a cold and rainy, drizzly Wednesday here in Dallas. Brrrrrr. Not as cold as last week (when I swam in my pool surrounded by snow!) but still so cold I’ve almost forgotten what hot feels like! (Which is saying a lot here in Texas! Hee Hee)

But the first thing I want to say today is a huge thanks to all who have purchased my ​Pickleball Devotional book​ I wrote about last week. Thank you!!! Your support means so much.

Anytime you put something out in the world, there is risk. When my son turns in his homework, there’s risk. His teacher may say he worked the formulas wrong, missed the point of the essay, or fell short somehow of the assignment.

And when we put things out there, we run the risk of negative response as well. Just because we’re not getting “graded” doesn’t mean we’re not running the risk.

So when I told you about my book I had FINALLY finished, I knew there was the risk of a negative response.

From you and my marvelous email friends, from my other friends, from the pickleball community at large…

and yet,

Aren’t we compelled to run the risk anyway? What good are all our gifts and talents if we’re not sharing them with the world?

When God created you, he created just ONE of you. Only you can offer to your family, your community, and the world, the special gifts that only you bring.

I have a friend who is a marvelous cook. She has honed her rough talent for pulling together family meals, into an art due to lots of training and practice. She blesses me with each tip she shares and each meal we enjoy.

I have another friend who teaches pickleball. I’m soooo thankful she’s sharing her hard-learned skills (via 40 years of tennis turned pickleball expertise) with me each week.

And yet another friend is a marvelous artist. She creates amazing watercolors that bless me each time I get to see the fruit of her labor.

What is your gift to share?

It may not be a book, or a course, or a piece of art or a delicious dinner. But I guarantee you have something you were made to offer to others.

So if you’re not sure, may I encourage you to take some time over the next few weeks and make note of these things…

1. What do you really enjoy doing?

2. What things do you spend time doing where the times seems to fly by?

3. What do other people (unprompted) compliment you about?

4. What do you find yourself doing when there’s nothing else to do…but you are drawn towards it over and over again

5. What’s super easy for you to do? (Like falling off a log easy?)

Then pay attention to all these different things. My guess is that you’ll start to see some patterns emerge over a few weeks.

Then, I’d encourage you to see if you can find ways to incorporate more of these things into your life over and over.

You will be able to get more joy, and give more joy, and your life will be happier and even more full of meaning.

And suddenly, the risk holds not quite so much risk anymore because you know you’re doing exactly what you were made for.

Here’s to a great week ahead!

Love you, and as always,

I’m Cheering you on,

Christy

P.S. Here’s ​a link to my newest book​ that I talked about last week. Do you know anyone who would enjoy it? It’s a great gift for sure.

The post Your Gift to the World appeared first on Christy Largent.

Remember last week, I told you I had ordered the proof…here it is and this is what it looks like.

It’s a little book, just a month’s worth of devotionals, but I think it’s cute and a perfect size for a gift book too!

Here’s a peek at the inside:

I love that there is room for you to jot down your thoughts and think through the topic. Plus, of course an affirmation to help you keep your thoughts in the right place.

I’m so thankful to finally get this finished! Now for the marketing…

But seriously, I’m so glad I didn’t give up on this book.

I’ve been talking about doing it for almost 2 years! Crazy!

But even though it took way longer than I had planned, today I’m thankful to say it’s finished and available on Amazon.

What is a dream you’ve had, that you’ve been thinking is taking too long, and you’re tempted to give up on?

Is there something that you’ve been wanting to do, but so many excuses, and fear and just…life are holding you back?

May I encourage you to take a step towards it today.

It doesn’t have to be a big step, but any movement towards your dream will pay off down the line.

So consider your heart’s desires. Remind yourself it’s not too late. And take a baby step of action.

Then hit reply and let me know what you’ve done. Because, as always, I’m here

Cheering you on,

Christy

P.S. Here’s a link if you want to see the book on Amazon! The E-book is available right now, and the paperback will be available in just a couple days.

The post The Payoff appeared first on Christy Largent.

My family and I are taking a little vacation from Texas and enjoying all the beauty of Tennessee.

While we are here we are visiting the Smokey Mountains, trying new restaurants and enjoying the cold weather.

We’re also contemplating the New Year and envisioning what we want this next year to look like.

Our daughter will be graduating college, our son entering his senior year of High School and we know that more quickly than we can imagine, it will be time for something new in our lives.

So I think this New Year is the perfect time to consider baby steps of trying something new.

Are you up for it?

Are you someone who seeks out new adventures and opportunities or someone who wants to stay where you are?

There’s really nothing wrong with the status quo…as long as it’s intentional!

If you’re staying still or treading water because you want to…good for you! Enjoy!

If you’re doing it because of fear of the unknown…well, I’ve got an encouragement for you.

Maybe this is the year you step out and try something new and fun.

–A new volunteer position.

–A new job.

–A new hobby (Pickleball anyone?).

–A new friendship.

–It could even be as simple as a new book.

The common denominator all these have is that these actions are moving you towards more of what will make your life fuller and richer. More of what you were put here on earth to do/be.

Let me encourage you to take the step this week. I promise, it will be worth it!

Cheering you on…with a southern twang,

Christy

The post Time for Something New? appeared first on Christy Largent.

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas. Ours was full of family and food, which means I’m currently swearing off both…just kidding!

It was actually really delightful and I learned a new (to me) game called Mexican Train that kept us all entertained and laughing as we “worked” off our Christmas dinner.

Learning new things is such an important part of life, isn’t it? Whether it’s a game with your family or a new skill, keeping your brain busy with new information is one thing I want to do more of in 2024.

Speaking of…you know that saying “Out with the old and in with the new.”? As we finish out the year this week, I’ll be reviewing what I really liked about 2023, and what I want to do differently in 2024.

I’ve been working on this review for several weeks now, and it’s been such a pleasure to realize there were quite a few areas in my life I made real progress in this year.

In the past, I would often set new goals for the New Year without taking stock of the year past. So this exercise this year has been very helpful in preparation for the year to come.

May I encourage you to do this exercise in the next few days and see what pops out? Ask yourself these questions to get going:

–What did I really enjoy in 2023? (What were the highlights of my year?)

–What do I want to do more of in 2024?

–What goals did I accomplish in 2023 and how do I feel about that?

–What went right with my relationships?

–What relationships do I want to work on, and what am I going to intentionally do about them in 2024?

–What areas did not turn out the way I planned in 2023 and what will I do about that in 2024? (Dropping them from your list is always an option.)

Finally,

–What am I looking forward to the most for 2024 and how am I going to get that ball rolling in this New Year?

As I wrap up this last letter of the year, I’ll leave you with our family photo. My family is always at the top of my gratitude list. For so many years I wanted nothing but to be a mom, so even when things are challenging, I still am so grateful for the answer to prayer of my children…

Happy New Year!

The post Out With the Old? appeared first on Christy Largent.

Unsubscribe | Update your profile | 113 Cherry Street #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205

The post Practicing Your Belief appeared first on Christy Largent.

It’s a beautiful sunny, cool day and we are having a great time visiting before I head up to Peachtree Corners for the Major League Pickleball Event. (I’m not playing – heehee) but I’m such a super fan, I’m going to be courtside to see all the top Pro players in the PB world. (There really is such a thing!)

Anyway, Monday back in Texas as I was coming home from taking Graham to school, I was thinking…”What could I do today that would allow me to really relax and enjoy my week in Georgia?”

And what immediately came to mind was to finish, and turn in my book proposal.

Since last May, I’ve been saying I would send a book proposal into a publisher (who requested it!) and yet for some reason, I’ve procrastinated. I’ve worked on it partially, I’ve moved forward in fits and starts, but I just couldn’t get myself to finish the darn thing and send it in!

So I knew I needed to just finish it and get it done!

(Have you ever had something like that?)

So I’m happy to report that by Monday at 3:00pm I had finished and submitted it to the publisher, along with submitting it on a major site that many publishers and agents use to find new manuscripts.

Whew! That felt sooooo goood!!

As I flew out yesterday, I was so thankful I had found my “around to it” to get to.

Really, the victory was in finishing the promised project more than the actual project itself.

As I was mulling over what had held me back for so long, the biggest obstacle that came to mind was this…

Perfection coupled with fear.

Fear it wasn’t, or wouldn’t be, perfect enough.

And if I never sent it, I would never know, right?

So theoretically, I was living in fear of something that wasn’t even real.

I mean, there is no actual downside.

“What if she says no?”

So what? What if she says no?

I don’t change either way. If she says no, then that’s ok, I can find other publishing houses, and/or publish it myself.

So really, there’s no downside.

And the exercise of completing the project was the victory in itself.

What have you been procrastinating on? Are you ready to “get ‘er done” as Larry the Cable Guy says?

This is what I did: (and maybe this will help you too!)

–I set the timer (20 minute chunks of work at a time)

–I focused on the process. There were lots of parts to this proposal, so I just focused on each part – writing, reviewing and editing. One element at a time.

–I hit send. Once the proposal was complete, I was actually second guessing myself – wondering if I should have someone else look at it and “approve” of what I had written. Then I caught myself. That was just another form of procrastination! So I gathered my courage, said a little prayer of gratitude and hit send.

Many years ago I heard the business and marketing strategist Seth Godin coin the term “Just ship it” as an anecdote to perfection paralysis, and I thought it was very useful.

And Monday I found it useful as well, as hitting the send button was a little “Just ship it” to myself.

And hopefully my encouragement to you to “Just Ship It” will help you as well.

Cheering you on,

Christy

P.S. If finding a life coach is something you’ve been procrastinating on, I have the perfect opportunity for you! My coach, Edie Wadsworth, is holding a 3-day “Live Your Life Purpose Challenge” event this week, and you can still get in on all the goodness. Here’s a link to check it out.

The post Will You Just Ship It? appeared first on Christy Largent.

I see the images coming across my Instagram feed and the stories filtering over my Facebook page.

Parents hugging, kissing, laughing, sorting, hauling, setting up (exquisite) dorm rooms, exploring, letting go, laughing some more, and crying.

I have 1 heading off for her second full year at UT, and to be honest, I have some really mixed emotions right now.

You see, our original college dropoff was fall of 2021 when we left our oldest as a HS senior for her to attend the Texas Academy of Math and Science up at the University of North Texas.

To be honest, I had an idealized vision of what it would be like to move her into her dorm. I’d use my background as a professional interior designer to help her create a beautiful, charming, inviting place of respite and calm amid the challenges of college.

I pictured helping her move in and get everything settled, pictures hung, lights strung, and a fuzzy throw blanket across the back of her desk chair. Kissing and hugging goodbye I’d cry on the way home, having dropped my eldest off, knowing things would never be the same again.

Well, I cried on the way home, but for a very different reason than I thought I would.

For starters, she wanted nothing to do with my vision of a fabulous dorm room. Utilitarian was her battle cry and she wanted it as sterile and stark as possible. No throw rugs, sparkle lights or beautiful art. Not for this girl.

I finally wrapped my mind around that, and at least looked forward to helping her move in with what she did let me get her.

Instead, as we got there and began unloading, she definitely didn’t want help putting her room together. I kept hovering, trying to help, but she was on a mission. Everything unpacked by herself and set up by herself.

She didn’t want any input or help from me other than taking out the trash.

In fact, she couldn’t get us out of there fast enough.

I get this. I do. This was about her, not me. But it was really tough for me.

That’s how it is with expectations. We have a vision, how it “should” be, of whatever it is…marriage, parenthood, our work, or, more specifically, moving a kid into college, the empty nest, our “retirement” years…

And for some reason, our expectations are way off base.

What do we do then?

It’s how we handle these unmet expectations that can really take our joy in life off course.

But the magic is that this is where we get to practice the skills we work on, our lovingkindness, our generosity, our patience, our trustworthiness.

During the difficult times are when those skills really count.

When we are able to manage our thoughts so they are working for us instead of against us.

When we can generate good feelings for ourselves in the midst of, let’s face it, less than perfect/desirable circumstances.

I’m so thankful that this year I have a lot more developed skills in this area than I did 2 years ago.

Now when Amelia insists on doing everything herself, I can notice her actions and if I start feeling rejected, I can recognize that it hurts, let myself sit with it until that feeling dissipates, then, I can change my thinking and think how thankful I am she’s so self-sufficient and focused on what’s most important to her.

Because when I think how grateful I am she’s confident and purposeful, I feel happy and even more grateful and hopeful for her future, which helps me be a more supportive and encouraging Mother. (Which is what I want to be!)

Oh, and I can have her Dad take her back down to college without me, which will let us all breathe a bit easier.

I know life isn’t like all those pictures I see on my social media. But going through this exercise helps me stay on track a whole lot more, and I hope it will help you too!

Love you and cheering you on,

Christy

P.S. If you’re curious about this “Think-feel-act” model I keep talking about, my coach Edie Wadsworth has opened her coaching program for a limited time. You can go here to find out more information. (Not an affiliate, just a BIG fan!)

The post Expectations and Disappointments appeared first on Christy Largent.

Gratitude. The foundation for a Positive Life, and the foundation of our Positivity Principles. Gratitude. Easy to think about, but sometimes difficult to live.

In this podcast, Christy gives 3 simple ways to incorporate more gratitude into your life.

Key Idea:

• Gratitude is simple, but takes practice to become a habit.

Resources:

• Christy’s Website

Free Download:

• “31 Ways to be More Positive”. Text “31Positive” to 44222

Book:

• Atomic Habits by James Clear

Speaking Inquiries:

• Do you need an entertaining and encouraging speaker for your event? Text 530-949-3646 and leave a call back number or email christy@christylargent.com

Enter to Win:

• Rate & Review this episode for a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card.

The post 5 Minute Motivation – Gratitude appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

You get to create the environment you want to create. Positivity can be learned with work and effort.

Resources: 

• Christy’s website

Books:

• 31 Positive Communication Skills for Women, Christy Largent

Mindset:

• The New Psychology of Success, Carol Dweck, Ph.D.

Free Download:

• “31 Ways to be More Positive”. Text 31Positive to 44222

Speaking Inquiries:

• Do you need an entertaining and encouraging speaker for your event? Text 530-949-3646 and leave a call back number or email christy@christylargent.com

Enter to Win:

• Rate & Review this episode for a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card.

The post 048 Welcome Back Podcast appeared first on Christy Largent.

January is almost over, and I didn’t quite finish what I started.

But, here’s the good thing. It’s turning out even BETTER than I had planned!

Starting with the clearing out  — I decluttered extensively and filled my car twice with trips to the Goodwill. Win! The storage closet in which I was planning to store the out of season leftovers, fell down into the clothes closet below. I know. Don’t ask.

But, the positive result will be even better storage once my husband completes the repair project. So let’s call that a not quite checked off the list but well on it’s way to completion success!

If you want to declutter too, may I suggest my friend Kathi Lipp’s easy to read and even easier to put into practice book, Clutter Free. You’ll love it and it will help you declutter your life!

Regarding the second part of my goals…here’s where it gets interesting…

As I was working on the content to be added to my website, I knew I needed video of me speaking, testimonials, information about my programs and an updated about me page. I wanted it to look like a speaker’s site, not a blogger/podcasters site.

I found some super smart people to help me with the technical aspects of this, and I began researching sites of some of my favorite National Speakers Association speakers to see what ideas I could steal borrow and change to make my own.

There are some awesome people out there to emulate! People like Neen James and Connie Podesta and Laura Stack and Tami Evans. And lots more incredible women who are really dominating in the public speaking space.

In the course of my research, I was drilling down to make sure my message was crystal clear on every level. I reached out to Neen James, who is known for her dynamic and fun delivery combined with her stellar content. I had seen her speak this past July at the NSA Convention, and was very intrigued with how she had packaged and delivered her message.

She was so helpful! She basically told me what I had come up with was no good and not unique at all. Boring. Her magic words were, Christy, I looked at your site, and I can’t book you from what you are telling me there. I don’t know what you offer.

Yikes! Just what I needed to hear. (Actually, I thought my site was shaping up nicely! So how awesome to get that kind of honest and relevant feedback!)

So in the past 2 weeks, I’ve gotten to work drilling down to the essence of Christy. Neen asked me, What have you put your 10,000 hours into Christy? What lessons have you learned over and over and over in your life that you can share with your audience? 

I’m still working on teasing it all out, but I am so close! And I’m so excited! Because instead of just being a “High Energy Motivational Speaker who teaches you how to get along and connect” I’m going to be framing it in a personal and more meaningful way that will be much more interesting and unique.

Which means YOU will be getting better content because I’ll be filtering it in a more effective way.

Here’s what I’ve learned from this whole experience. Maybe they will help you too!

1. Even if you don’t know exactly where it’s going to end up, get started getting busy on what you want to do.  The de-cluttering project revealed the storage problem. Had I waited, there would still be piles everywhere and the closet would still be a problem! If I hadn’t begun the research, I would never have seen the huge gaping holes in my website/speaking project.
2. Reach out for help. I knew I couldn’t deal with all the technical changes I’ll be needing in the course of changing my website. I found experts in those areas to help me. That even relates to me reaching out to Neen. (I didn’t know her personally before.)
3. Be willing to look at the same things differently. You know I’ve been speaking on the topics of communication skills, customer service, and personality styles for almost 20 years. This month, I’ve looked at my body of work in a whole new way, and I’m coming out the other end the better for it.

What about you? How did your January go? Are you still on track to make this your Best Year Ever? I hope so.  Let me know in the comments below, or comment on FB.

The post It was Guilt Free and Painless appeared first on Christy Largent.

Several weeks ago I created my first ever community survey. I wanted to know more about you so that I can make sure what I’m creating is meeting your most important needs.

You responded and I got some surprising results.  Here they are – along with why the information matters and what I’m going to do differently.

Results

• You are a dominantly female audience (97%),  and in your middle years, 45-64 years old (72%).  I knew this intuitively, but it was fun to see the numbers. (You look like me!)

• You value education and have either a Bachelor or Graduate degree (66%) or at least some college 25%. Clearly, you are a lifelong learner.
• Your total household income is more than $75,000 (65%), and  you can be found in a huge variety of job positions, so much so, there’s no 1 thing that jumps out. I love that you bring an incredibly diverse scope of background and skills.

• Social Media Use was my biggest surprise.
  • Facebook was #1 (93% ranked it #1)
  • YouTube (79% ranked #2 or #3) virtually tied with
  • Pinterest (75% ranked #2 or #3).

• You don’t listen to my podcast. (72%) (Many of you said you wanted to listen, but were too busy to fit them in.)
• You want to learn from me…
  •  #1 Communication Skills and
  • #2 Self Development strategies.

• Your Biggest Challenges…
  • Finding time to do what needs to get done (61%) and
  • Desire to improve professional growth (45%), then
  • Life/Work balance (35%).

Your dreams…travel, being fit, creating a business and spending time with your family all rose to the top. We women really do want to do it all!

My top 5 Action Items based on the survey…

1. January 5th I’ll be offering a free webinar to help you dig deep to Discover your Calling and Develop your Plan for the new year.  More info. on that will be coming shortly. (It will have a wonderful name I’m sure, I just haven’t come up with it yet…title ideas welcomed.)

2.  I’ll continue finding excellent outside resources to recommend. The first is available now, 5 Days to Your Best Year Ever, by Michael Hyatt, and then in January there’s a free Peak Performance Summit you can register for here now. More on both of these as we go.

3. I’ll be creating YouTube tutorials focused on communication skills and strategies to help you communicate most effectively (get what you want!)

4. My podcast is going to reformatted into a short 5-10 minute production that you can fit into your busy schedules.

5. Finally, I’m going to send the survey at a different time of year. (Feb or March will be good.)  Late fall is such a busy time of year, I know many of you wanted to take the survey, but just couldn’t squeeze it in. So, next time I’ll find a less “intense” time of year to send so I can get even more feedback.

Thank you so much! I just love connecting with you and I’m excited about the year to come. What are you excited about this for this coming year? I’d love to hear what’s top of your mind! You can comment here or better yet…(see, I’m learning…) “like,” then post on my Facebook Page here.   Love ya!

Christy

The post Community Survey 2015 Results appeared first on Christy Largent.

And that conversation led me to think about the expectations I put on myself.  There’s no life “monitor” waiting to give me a “grade” at the end of my life. Right? Yet I frequently act, that is, think as though I must go through life working for an A+.

And then, when I don’t get the Christmas Cards sent, (Seriously people, this is a challenge for me! Those receiving cards from us this year will be blessed by the arrival of 2014 and 2015’s cards together!), or I don’t hit my target work numbers, or I don’t lose as much weight as I had hoped…well, I just feel like a failure.

This year was a good one for my goals. I found an excellent eating program that I loved and I shed the

40lbs that had been hanging on for about 8 years. I finally finished and published my book.  I managed to step back and take a few months with my kids traveling coast to coast this summer. By any yard stick, I think that’s a pretty good year.

But then I realize that I’ve gained some of that weight back. And I didn’t speak as many times as I had hoped. And the book was only self-published – does that even count? Oh, and the kids fought with each other for most of that enormous road trip.

You get where I’m going?  Do you do this too?  It’s so frustrating! Because I think when we do this horrible downplaying, minimizing what we’ve done and who we are as somehow “not quite enough,”  we rob ourselves of the joy of the “enough.”

So ENOUGH!

This year as I review my goals from last year and step into planning and dreaming for 2016, I will recognize that anything I think worthy of writing down as a goal is enough. The process of completing the goal is enough. And when I accomplish that longed for dream, I’ll do a happy dance and celebrate!

If you want to join me, I want you to encourage you to check out my friend Michael Hyatt’s new and improved goal setting program 5 Days to Your Best Year Ever.  I have used this program for the past 2 years and will do it again this year.

I have used the tools he has provided. I’ve engaged with the ongoing coaching program offered and benefitted from private VIP FB groups and online coaching sessions with Michael.  I believe all of these things have combined to help me achieve some really big goals!  And I love that! And I want that for you too.

Click here to Check it out!

I believe in this program so much, I am an affiliate. That means, if you decide it’s right for you and you purchase the program, I get a thank you payment from Michael. But seriously, even if I weren’t, I would still be encouraging you to check it out.

I think it’s worth your time to at least look at.  There are 3 free videos that will totally help you now, even if you decide the program is not a fit. The free content will help you get get thinking about how you want to set your intention for 2016 and then recognize the cost of each day of your year…so enlightening!

(The kids and I have a cameo in them too — so fun! You must watch carefully to see us — and I’m 40lbs heavier in the pictures since they were shot in July of 2014, so I can hardly bear it…sooooo Embarrassing!)

Ok, I could go on and on! But I won’t. Instead, I’m going to go get busy on my Christmas Cards, say a thankful prayer with every envelope I address, and know that it’s All. Totally. Enough.

Love you!

Christy

ps – In case you missed it — click here — to check out the 5 Days to Your Best Year Ever program. What will it hurt to look it over? And what will it hurt if you don’t?  xoxoxo C

The post When is Enough, Enough? appeared first on Christy Largent.

You can imagine. It’s heartbreaking.

This week his Veteran’s Home brought in a speaker, Heather McKay, MS, OT/L to train the staff on how to work with people with Dementia.  They also offered a special session for families.  My husband and I attended.

Heather did a thorough and thoughtful job explaining the deterioration of a brain beset with the disease of Dementia.  It’s horrifying to see the stark physical differences between a healthy 80 year old brain and the shrunken, deformed brain of an 80 year old Alzheimer’s patient.

Almost the first question after she finished her presentation was “How do we keep our brains healthy?”  Precisely!  How do we avoid the trauma our loved ones are going through?

Heather gave a list of 10 things we can do.  I did 2 Periscopes about it here if you want to see them.  For you readers…here’s what she recommended. (With my additional #1 mentioned first.)

1.  Cut the Sugar, Flour and Eat Whole Foods.  I must admit this is my #1 because I’ve read the work of Dr. Daniel Amen and Dr. David Perlmutter and others who have done extensive research into the relationship between what you put in your body and how your brain works on that fuel.  Universally, their #1 recommendation is to eliminate sugar and grains from your diet.  It’s not easy, but a worthwhile goal for your best brain health. In the interest of full disclosure and transparency, I’ve struggled with my sugar/flour addiction for more than 10 years…I still haven’t found my own personal solution…I’ll keep you posted on that one.
2. Read.  Books.  Oh my! I did a little happy dance in my chair when Heather said this.  Sugar is hard. Books are easy.  Read chapter books.  Something like 80% of Americans read less than 10 books a year. How are you doing with your reading?  Situational memory is stimulated when you read, put down the book, do something else and then come back to the book.  As you “get back into the book” your brain works it’s situational memory activities and strengthens those brain cells.
3. Keep a Journal.  If you already do this, you’re on the right track.  If not, Heather suggested something simple to get started – create a “Done List” at the end of each day.  We are all familiar with “To Do” lists, and this is the same but in reverse.  Go back over your day and remember all the things that happened. Process them and plan ahead for the next day. Situational memory is activated and brain activity increased. All good.
4. Use Your Non-Dominant Hand.  Something magical happens inside your brain when you switch things up.  Simple things like opening the door or brushing your teeth with your opposite hand will trigger your brain to get busy and get working.
5. Work Crossword Puzzles.  My husband did the happy dance on this one. I cringed. Heather assured us that even those of us who struggle with these puzzles can start easy and work up.  I put “find crossword puzzle for babies” on my list.  I’ll get started on this right away. Really!
6. Find ways to add vocabulary to your knowledge bank.  Crazy, right? I think if you are reading good stuff, you’ll find new words.  Also, it sounds silly, but keep an old-fashioned dictionary at your desk and in between projects, pull it out and thumb through.  Then try to use a new word in a sentence or email sometime that day.  Oh, and I think crosswords work  for this too.
7. Games.  Do more of them.  Strategy and name and face games are best.  When you are struggling to remember a name of someone, let your brain run and try to remember it.  The brain is searching for a file (names are stored a different place than faces (images) are)…so let your brain search.  It can be frustrating, but the more you allow it to search, the stronger the ability will get. Make a game out of it and it will be even more helpful.
8. Exercise your body.  (You know this already!!)
9. Learn a foreign language.  Interestingly, the year I spent teaching english in Hungary I had the most vivid dreams of my life. Scientists tell us dreams are the way we process all the stimulation of the day. My mind was in overdrive during the day, and rebooting furiously during the night.  I’d say that year brought not only personal growth, but brain growth as well.
10. Learn to play a musical instrument.  Ok.  Put it on the list.

Bottom line as I run through these suggestions is for us to keep our brains working. Any time we bring something new to our brains they do a happy dance. And the more we do it, the happier they are!

I have a feeling I could write on each of these 10 individually – they are all so full of opportunity.  Each one of them is a choice. I was challenged to at least recognize that I have some control now over how my brain might turn out later.

How are you strengthening your brain? Shoot me a quick tweet or leave a comment here. I love hearing from you!

Love ya,

Christy

The post Top 10 Tips for a Super Connected Brain…and Life! appeared first on Christy Largent.

What a year this has been and now here we are just 90 days left until we’re celebrating the entrance of 2106.  Are you ready for all the hustle and bustle of the end of year?

I’ve decided to go ahead and get my Christmas cards sent out in the next few weeks.  You see last year’s cards are still sitting on the office shelf a-waiting their signing and stuffing.  I figure I’ll just write a new letter, snap a few new pictures and add the whole kit and caboodle into last year’s envelope and call it done.  Can you relate?

Actually, that’s what I call falling forward.

Things don’t work out as you had planned.  Your goal to _______________ (you fill in the blank) was missed by a New York mile.  And I figure that’s ok, in fact my experience shows, that’s LIFE.  So, here’s the question. How can we dig down into the essence of it, grab the really important part, regroup and once again move forward towards what we want?

And it’s not just with Christmas cards is it?  That book you started. The weight you had hoped to shed. The garden you had dreamed of getting landscaped. The clients you had hoped to connect with.  All worthy goals.  And yet here we are on October 1st and they are still incomplete.

I want to encourage you to stop and ask yourself what’s really important to you. Once you dial back into that core foundation, then it’s time to figure out what you want to focus on for the next 90 days.  What activities will move you towards accomplishing what you set out to do back last December or January?

It’s not too late.  I promise.  No matter how many times you miss, you can always try again. At least that’s my motto.  Revisit and make sure you really wanted it? Yes! And then once that’s done, get back on that horse. Or should I say, pick up that card, stuff that envelope and stick on that stamp!

I’m SO happy to be back with you.  Let me know what you’ve been doing.  You can leave a comment or just send me a tweet over on twitter.

I’m also Periscoping daily, so I’d love for you to join me there as well!  More on that later.

Hugs,

Christy

The post Fall-ing Forward appeared first on Christy Largent.

Here are the 3 steps I use:

1. Consider where you were when you set the goals.
2. Look at what you’ve accomplished so far.
3. Consider what’s still left to do and readjust if necessary

Encouraging Word for the day:  Psalms 20:4  “May He grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans.”

The post #513: 5 Minute Motivation – Be Purposeful (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Today I want to share a few words of encouragement.  Sunday’s holiday used to be one of the saddest days of my year.  I know the pain of dashed hopes and deferred dreams.  And I’ve found some ways to navigate that I think might be helpful to you too.  Listen in for more!

Key Ideas:

1.  Remember – “Not now” doesn’t mean “Never”

2.  Managing Expectations

3.  When the difficulties come, hang on.

4.  Look for the sunshine

Encouraging Word of the Day:  Psalm 37:4  “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you all the desires of your heart.”

The post #047: Encouragement for Mother’s Day (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

So here are the 5 big takeaways…

1. Discover your Assets
2. Broaden your perspective
3. Find ways to connect
4. Surround yourself with people who care
5. Pay attention to your heart

Encouraging Word for the Week:  Proverbs 19:20-21 “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.  Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”

The post #046: 5 Key Life Skills to Enjoy Life More (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

This week I’m in Orlando, Florida at the Launch Conference, put on by Ken Davis and his Dynamic Communicators event team.  I’m learning so much, and more importantly, I’m being pushed into action while making connections with top thinkers and doers.

I love this stuff.  That’s because I love learning.  And let’s face it, taking online classes and going to conferences is a heck of a lot cheaper than going back to college!

And the other thing is that I’m putting into practice what I’m learning.  This blog, my podcast, my soon to be published book are all evidence of this training getting put into practice.

So I wanted to ask you…how are you investing in yourself this year?  Have you taken time to read an inspiring book?  Have you started learning a new skill with an online class?

Let’s break it down to the super simple.  Have you Googled or YouTubed how to do something new this year?

You might be living in fear like I was.  Afraid to try something that might be uncomfortable or has the possibility of being imperfect (Gasp!)

But seriously,

The #1 Benefit to learning something new is…

You’ll feel really, really, really good!

My brother has always been the smart one in our family.  He was the math wiz at an early age.  For me however, anything to do with math and I’d run.  Add computer to that, and yikes!  That was a recipe for nightmares in my book.

I developed an aversion to anything that might even get close to doing math on the computer.  And of course, every year tax season was a huge burden as I had to manually deal with all my receipts etc.

This year I was challenged to get a Quick Books program.  I bit the bullet and got the program.  I went to a training and then got some personalized tutoring on how to use it.  I entered my entire year’s worth of data into the program.  And guess what?

It was so incredible!!  I did it!  I printed out my very first profit and loss statement!  And even more amazing…I FELT WONDERFUL!!!  I was so darned strong, happy and empowered when I finished I literally felt like Wonder Woman!  If any bullets had been flying by, I’m sure I could have deflected them with my magical quickbooks bracelets of gold.  Simply amazing!

Seriously.  You HAVE to try this!  I think part of why it felt so amazing was that I didn’t think I could do it, and so when I did it, it was a double happiness hit. Ahhhhh!

I want this for you!  (I know I’m using a lot of exclamation marks today…but I’m sure it’s the only way I can convey to you the enormous mounds of emotion that this achievement raised for me!!)

Do you want to learn how to use a new program?  Are you eager to try a new cooking technique, but been worried it would turn out poorly?  Maybe it’s dance lessons that are calling out to be taken, but you don’t want to feel silly by being the youngest in the class.

Or even more seriously, do you need/want/fear a conversation with your husband about something important and deeply felt by you, but you’re not sure how to say it so you say nothing?  Speaking the truth in love is a skill you can learn…I know how scary it feels, yet how exhilarating it is after the conversation actually happens.

All this I want for you so much.  I want you to experience the rush of adrenalin that comes from actually doing that thing you’ve been fearing.  For me, all it took was that silly computer program. What is it for you? I’d love to hear.

The post The #1 Benefit of Learning Something New This Month appeared first on Christy Largent.

But he was gone.  Buried in a borrowed grave.  It had been a pretty dramatic and disgusting end to the whole thing too.  For Pete’s sake.  Well actually, Pete had his own embarrassing episode during the whole long, drawn out fiasco.

What a waste.  Three long years.  They had walked away from their careers, their families, everything in order to follow their Pied Piper.  He promised.  And now he was gone.

We know they had lost hope because when the miracle happened and He really was gone from the tomb and the women tried to tell the disciples all about it, this was their response, “They did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense.”  Luke 24:11  Does that sound like men who were waiting with bated breath for their dream to resurrect?

And maybe today, on the Saturday before Easter you have lost hope too.

Maybe your marriage has crashed and burned and all those dreams you had when you were dressed in white are cindered, black and smelly.

Maybe you got that pink slip yesterday.  Your high hopes of promotion and growth and success now seem about as likely as a trip to Pluto.

Maybe, God forbid, your child is gone. And that has torn everything thing you thought you knew to be true into disarray leaving you stripped, barren, broken.

Not a single shard of hope.  You get it.  You know how those disciples felt.  And yet.

And yet.

Their story wasn’t over.  Your story isn’t over.

And actually, all because Sunday already came, you don’t have to be hopeless either.  You can cling to that resurrected reality, even if by the slenderest of threads.

Oh dear friend, cling as hard as you can.  And then, it will be the resurrected Christ who will come and hold you up.  He is the one who will restore your heart.  I promise.  He promises.

After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples you know.  They were actually all huddled fearfully together, locked in some hidden room when he came to them.  And the first words out of his mouth were these, “Peace be with you.” (John 20:19)

Can you imagine?!?  Peace.  After all that.

Peace.

So today as we await our own celebration of resurrection on Easter Sunday, let’s join together and open our weary, discouraged and hopeless souls to his exquisite, soothing balm of peace.

Peace.

The post Hope Lost and Found appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

Part 1 – Interview Highlights

• A funny Alec Baldwin story and her podcast “You’ve Got This”
• Finding your direction
• The role mentors can play in your life
• The true cost of clutter

Part 2 – Decluttering Our Lives

• Making hard choices
• Being realistic
• Staying focused
• Perspective Reset – Tim Challies article

Website Links

www.kathilipp.com

www.clutterfreebook.com

canva.com

Kathi’s Recommended Reading

Clutter Free, Quick and Easy Steps to Amplifying Your Space, by Kathi Lipp.

Communicating for a Change: Seven Keys to Irresistible Communication (North Point Resources), by Andy Stanley and Lane Jones.

The Power of a Positive No: Save The Deal Save The Relationship and Still Say No, by William Ury.

StrengthsFinder 2.0, by Tom Rath.

Connect with Kathi

On Facebook

On Twitter

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Ecclesiastes 5:10  “Whoever loves money will never have enough money. Whoever loves luxury will not be content with abundance. This also is pointless.”         – I know this is not very encouraging, but seriously, doesn’t it just fit perfectly with our discussion today!  It’s about relationships, not about stuff!

Question:  Are you a cluttery person?  How do you manage to keep it down?  I’d love your ideas too!  Just leave a comment below, or on FB or Twitter.

The post #044: Kathi Lipp – A Clutter Free Life (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Or at least it was a blast the last time I took the class.  This morning, not so much.  You see, I’m out of practice.  I’ve been doing other things in the morning.  Specifically sleeping.  So I’m just a tad bit out of spinning shape.

If you’ve ever been a spinner, you know what I’m talking about.  After you’ve been spinning a month or so you kind of find your groove.  You figure out how to push yourself without throwing up.  You know what I’m talking about.

But this morning everything was different.  I was sooooo slow!  My mind said, “Legs, push!”, and the legs surged forward with all the strength of a noodle.  And while I was struggling for breath and willing myself forward, I realized there were a few universal ideas I was being reminded of as I reacclimatized myself into spinning shape.  I thought I’d share them with you.

1.  Your ride is different than the teacher’s and everyone else’s ride.  That’s right.  You have your own rhythm, your own style and your own timing.  Just like in life.  Your  journey is uniquely your own.  It may or may not mirror the journey of your boss or your best friend.  What matters is that you figure out what your ride is and ride it with all your heart.  It will be the best possible ride.  Uniquely yours.

2.  The unknown will bring blessings all it’s own.  This morning Silas played music I had never heard before.  I’m a musical person and I like to think I am sort of connected to what’s happening in today’s music scene.  But this morning I only recognized 1 song.  Out of the 12 or so songs he played, only 1!  I couldn’t believe it!  But you know what, I loved it!  I embraced the newness of that music and reveled in the energy it helped pump through my increasingly tired legs.  The blessing of the unknown kept me engaged to the very end of every song rather than anticipating the ending as I normally would have done.

Often when we are faced with the unknown, our tendency is to avoid, right?  New co-worker.  Walk down the other hall so you won’t have to engage with her.  Or that difficult decision you’re waiting to hear back on.  You avoid checking your emails or voicemails because you don’t want to have to hear potential bad news.  Or how about what I’m struggling with right now…fear of the unknown.  I don’t know how to do some of the technical details required to get my book published, so instead of powering through, I’m avoiding through other activities.  (Like this post if the truth be told!)  Let’s embrace our unknown together.

3.  When you’ve done the hard thing, you will feel amazing!  Yes.  As the hour moved to a close, I was so happy!  Spent. Yes.  Exhausted. Yup. Empowered. Absolutely!  In fact, as I was getting off the bike and grabbing the cleaning papers to wipe it down, I actually thought to myself, “Now, THIS is a way to get my week of to a great start!  I’ll bet I get a ton accomplished today.”

I didn’t think that because I was a seriously good rider.  No way!  I thought that because I did something uncomfortable – several somethings actually…but the end result was what I really wanted.  A stronger heart, firmer legs (maybe someday) and most of all, completion of a desired task.

How about you?  What can you jump into today to give yourself a spin?  How can you challenge yourself to ride your own ride, embrace the unknown and revel in the feeling of accomplishment that will ensue?  I’d love to hear your stories!

The post 3 Lessons from Getting Spun this Morning appeared first on Christy Largent.

You won’t find sugar coating and happy endings here.  What you will find is HOPE in all capital letters.  Because Michele is not a christian in name only.  She lives a gut wrenching faith through the depths of trial and despair.

Since Michele couldn’t be on the show due to the fact she’s in the middle of healing from her most recent cancer surgery, I decided to review the book and go over my biggest take-aways.  If you read my blog post yesterday, I covered these briefly there, but today I take it deeper.

And I have a special ending where you will hear from Michele herself doing what she does best.  Telling a story.

Key Ideas:

Part 1 – Undone: A Story of Making Peace With an Unexpected Life Highlights

• With God’s help, You can do what you never imagined you could do.
• There is good to come out of bad.  There really is a silver lining.
• Don’t wait for everything to be perfect to start! Make the most of what IS.

Part 2 – My Decision before I become Undone!

• Making hard choices
• Being realistic
• Staying focused

Website Links

Michele Cushat

Recommended Reading

Undone: A Story of Making Peace With an Unexpected Life, by Michele Cushat

Connect with Michele

On Facebook

On Twitter

On Instagram

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Jeremiah 29:11  “I know the plans I have for you says the Lord.  Plans to prosper you and not to harm you.  Plans to give you a future and a hope.”

The post #043: Michele Cushatt – Undone Book Review (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

When I started Undone: A Story of Making Peace With an Unexpected Life, I had a tiny idea of what to expect.  After all, my friend, Michele Cushatt, speaker, blogger, co-host of the top rated podcast This is Your Life with Michael Hyatt, MC for Women of Faith, had been diagnosed with cancer last year.  Or should I say re-diagnosed.  So I knew she had some challenging times in her past and present, I just didn’t know how earth shattering those challenges really were.

Most of us would be buried under the weight of those burdens.  Broken marriage. Single parenting.  Blended family.  Cancer.  Rebellious kids.  Foster parenting. Cancer again.  And again.  Oh my!

But the reason I want you to read this book is not because of how horrible it all is, but how incredibly wonderful it all is.  That’s right.  Wonderful.  Because Michele shares the entire story with an underlying peace and calm that’s completely inspiring.  Her faith is deep and her writing is lyrical, so you are carried along.  Even in the midst of becoming Undone, this really is, as her tag line reads, A Story of Making Peace With an Unexpected Life.

She weaves so many ideas throughout this wrenchingly honest and brave memoir, it’s hard to pick just a few.  But of course I did (since I love 3-point take-aways), and following are 3 things I want you to remember the next time YOU are coming Undone.

1.  With God’s help, You can do what you never imagined you could do.  When Michele was struggling with chronic pain, a body that wouldn’t heal, and a root canal in an already raw mouth, she realized she was booked to speak at a huge women’s conference.  This was an opportunity she had worked for and was really looking forward to.  But seriously. Picture yourself in that situation.  As my mother would say, “She was just beside herself.”

But God.  Michele’s prayer, “God.  I have nothing.  Nothing.  You’re going to have to show up in a big way.  The Advil too.  I don’t know how I’m going to do this.”  

Here’s what happened,

“For two days, women who heard my story lined up at my book table, one by one sharing their own stories of heartache;  of broken marriages, wayward children, and the difficult wrestlings of this life of faith.  Again and again, I abandoned a chair to grasp hands with a stranger, close my eyes and pray.  Together we poured out our hearts to a God we desperately needed but didn’t always understand.  Real, broken, in-progress women trying so very hard to live.”

Yup.  What you never thought you could do.

2.  There is good to come out of bad.  There really is a silver lining.  Story after story Michele weaves a beautiful tapestry out of all the yuck she has waded through.

• A failed marriage brought a brand new ministry to single moms.  And more.
• A tough new marriage and blended family brought a new appreciation for  imperfection and second chances.  And more.
• Cancer.  And more cancer.  I can’t even start on that list — too many good things to write down in this post!  Can you even believe that!!  It’s true!

And my biggest take-away of all…

3.  Don’t wait for everything to be perfect to start! Make the most of what IS.  Michele had some of the most magical opportunities presented to her in the midst of her cancer and other challenges.  Many of us might have passed on the opportunities because of all the other stuff going on.  But not Michele.  We can learn from her choices.

When prospects of a quickly approaching empty nest were put to bed on the heels of “one phone call that came with three children,” Michele and her husband moved forward into their new life.  It wasn’t pretty, but they didn’t shun the opportunity because it wasn’t what they had imagined.  Instead they embraced it.   And when you read the book, you’ll understand all the beauty that came (and is coming) from that choice.

Can you tell I loved this book!   If you’ve ever felt just a tad bit “Undone” then get this book.  If you have a friend who is the midst of “Undone”, then get this book and give it to her.  Your friend will thank you.  Michele will thank you.  I’ll thank you.

Because really, isn’t that what it’s all about as we struggle through this life?  Encouraging each other.  Loving each other.  All because HE first loved us.  Making the most of every day because the days are short.

Love ya!

Christy

Question:  What are some of the ways you are able to survive when you’re coming undone?  Please leave your answers below, or in the comments on FB or Twitter.

Note: Quotes are from Michele Cushatt’s book, Undone: A Story of Making Peace With an Unexpected Life. All rights reserved.

The post 3 Things to Remember When You Are Coming Undone appeared first on Christy Largent.

“That Feeling” = Tight chest, shallow breathing, head spinning, general feeling of high anxiety about all the things I should be doing, hadn’t done or missed doing.

About 6 months ago, I realized that when my body has this visceral reaction, I needed to pay attention.

It wasn’t just the physical I was experiencing.  Because at the same time, my mind was going wild and I felt:  Overwhelmed.  Ashamed.  Anxious.  Behind.  Embarrassed.  Frustrated.  Scared.  Not Enough.  And again Ashamed.

So I stopped, took a few deep breaths, remembered what I was supposed to, wanted to get busy doing, and thought I would take my own minute of re-connection to re-connect with you and share with you what worked for me, just in case you have ever felt like this too.

1. Stop.  This is where you readjust yourself physically.  You MUST do this first, even before anything else.  Physically stop and breathe.  Close your eyes, sit up straight, gently move your head and shoulders to realign.  Focusing on nothing but the air, breathe in deeply, all the way to your bellybutton.  Do it again.  And one more time.  You should start feeling a bit of relief right away.
2. Think.  This is where you readjust your mind.  Let go of all the negative you just veered off course into. Remind yourself of what you want to do.  Your calling.  Your passion.  Let go of the comparison.  (Yup, my guess is that’s at the root of this particular melt-down.)
3. Act.  This is where you do something positive to move yourself in the right direction.  Start doing that thing you just reminded yourself about.  The old saying, “just do the next right thing” really comes in handy here.  You know what it is.  You can do it. Start.

I hope these reminders helped you.  They helped me.  Now I’d better get back to my regularly scheduled programming.

Love ya!

Christy

P.S.  I’d love to hear your stories.  What sends you into a panic?  What is your trigger?  How do you get out of it?  Please leave your comments below, on FB or Tweet it!

The post I Felt Overwhelmed and Ashamed and How I Moved Past It appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas: 

Part 1 – Interview highlights

• The benefits of an unexpected journey
• Finding Mentors
• Her favorite productivity secret Hint:  It’s painless!
• Friendships – finding honest ones
• How to be totally awesome!

• Part 2 – Set Yourself Up for Success

• Sleep Enough
• Plan, then Schedule
• Clear out the clutter
• Get busy and enjoy it all

Website Links

www.karikampakis.com  All the good stuff from Kari

www.handsfreemama.com  LOVE this blog!

www.jeanniecunnion.com  Another keeper! Wonderful.  And her book is stunning too.

www.thehouseofhendrix.com  So awesome.

I love all of these connections.  Kari’s leading you in the right direction with these amazing women!

Kari’s Recommended Reading

10 Ultimate Truths Girls Should Know, by Kari! This is sooooo good!

The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For?, by Rick Warren

Mere Christianity, by C.S. Lewis

Connect with Kari

On Facebook

On Twitter

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Ecclesiastes 3:1-8  “A Time for Everything”
“There is a time for everything,
    and a season for every activity under the heavens:
A time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
A time to kill and a time to heal,
    a time to tear down and a time to build,
A time to weep and a time to laugh,
    a time to mourn and a time to dance,
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
    a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
A time to search and a time to give up,
    a time to keep and a time to throw away,
A time to tear and a time to mend,
    a time to be silent and a time to speak,
A time to love and a time to hate,
    a time for war and a time for peace.”

The post #041: Kari Kampakis and Success Tips (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

This past year, writing a book was on my list of “I want to accomplish this.”  As you know, 2014 was full of blog starting, podcast starting, and more speaking.  When on earth was I going to fit in time to write?

Well, late last spring I sat in on a webinar put on by a guy named Chandler Bolt.  Chandler’s program was how to write and publish a book in 90 days…oh and get that book on the Amazon Best Seller list too.  That sounds good, doesn’t it?  I was really impressed.  Although he’s young, he has an excellent track record of getting his books to the #1 rankings in Amazon.  Not bad, right?

So I signed on for his course and jumped in.  Well, life happened, and I didn’t actually start on the book until mid-fall.  I wrote it in October and November, and my plan is to publish by the end of the February.  Chandler’s program helped me make this happen.

Well, Chandler and his business partner James have put together an updated and fully improved version of their program called Self Publishing School and this new program is why I say Help Is On It’s Way!

If you’ve ever thought about writing a book, I’d encourage you to seriously check out what Chandler and James are offering.  It’s not cheap, but I do believe it’s so valuable!  Here are just a few of the things he and his team will walk you through step by step…

• How to get started
• How to write even when you’re not inspired
• How to create a killer title and subtitle
• Tactics for how to classify your book for maximum exposure
• Social media ninja marketing tactics to help you get all your friends involved and supportive
• Finding an editor
• Creating the perfect cover
• and so much more…

If you have a story to share, or if you know a book would be the natural next step for your own platform, I just know you will love this program!  Starting today, February 16th through the 22nd, only, you’ll be able to sign up for this program.  Click through to the program here.  Think of all the lives you will positively affect by getting your story published!

Question:  Have you ever thought about writing a book?  What has held you back? I’d love to hear your comments!

The post Do You Have A Book In You? appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

Part 1 – Interview Highlights

• How to identify who you really are in each of your rolls.
• Avoiding FOMO – Fear of Missing Out
• Being intentional and mapping out your ideal month
• Date night suggestions
• Morning and Evening rituals
• The power of authenticity

Part 2 – My Miracle Morning Magic
(thanks Hal Elrod!)

• Silence
• Affirmations
• Visualization
• Exercise
• Read
• Scribe – (Write)

Website Links

Keeping It Personal – Teri’s website

Clarity to Thrive Course — Starting April 6th!

Miracle Morning

Recommended Resources

Overcoming The Nevers: by Gardening Your Life and Nurturing Seeds of Truth, by Teri Johnson

The Uncommon Woman: Making an Ordinary Life Extraordinary by Susie Larson

The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM), by Hal Elrod

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Proverbs 11:25  “A generous woman will prosper; she who refreshes others will herself be refreshed.”

The post #040: Teri Johnson and My Miracle Morning (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

I got the iPad as a Christmas present.  Actually, I purchased it the day after Thanksgiving during the Target’s awesome Black Friday sale.  So I even got it for a crazy-good price.  But I wrapped it up and even hauled it on our trip with us.

I didn’t open the box until last night.  Why on earth?

I was trying to analyze why I do that to myself.  I put off really good things.  And I do this with blogging, editing my podcast interviews, finishing my book…and the list goes on.

Do you relate?  I think it must be because sometimes, even when new things are really good, the unknown still makes me nervous.  Maybe it’s that I’m just getting too far down the road, wondering about how it’s going to play out, so I stop myself before I even start.

[Tweet “”Even when new things are really good, the unknown still makes me nervous.””]

I’ve decided to turn it around.  And when I feel like putting something off, rather than turn it all around in my head, I’m going to immediately do something positive about it.

This concept is something I’m going to start embracing.  I LOVE what comes after I do these things.  After all, it’s an iPad!  Can you say…easy-peasy?  And yes, I’m already loving it and wondering how on earth I ever did without it and it’s been less than 12 hours!

And with all the other stuff?  Here’s what I’ve come to.  I’m going to quit telling you hard and fast deadlines about my work.  I’m going to do my best to connect with you in a regular way with my podcast and blog posts and Facebook and twitter.  No set schedule.

I know that goes against all the experts.  But seriously.  I am SO NOT these people who are introverts and schedulers and get-it-all-done-at-any-cost types.  I’m just Christy.

My first priority is my family and many most days they take up a lot of my brain activity, not to mention, time.  And that’s OK.  Actually, I’m really AOK with that.

As you may know, I waited a long time to be a Mama, and I want to savor every moment.

And at the same time, I really love you, my encouragers, who I feel privileged to connect with day in and day out.  And I want to give you my best.

So, with that in mind…all my pre-planned schedules I thought I could do this year are going by the way-side.  I’m going to do my best to get you weekend updates, and twice a week posts and weekly podcasts.  Do my best being the operative words in this sentence.

Ahhh, it feels so freeing to say that.  So you won’t be expecting what I can’t, or don’t, give.  How does that sound?

Question:  What do you struggle with putting off?  It’s more than simple procrastination isn’t it?  How have you overcome that tendency?  I’d love to hear your suggestions!  Please leave a note below.

The post The Sweet at the End of the Stuck appeared first on Christy Largent.

We continued with Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions For Kids by Sara Young, in the car on the way to the bus stop, and we’re actually having a great time with it – discussing the passage and then praying.  Well, I try to get the praying in while they make comments about my prayer from the backseat.

I’m going to start on a scripture memory project with them this week.  I want to start with Ephesians 6:10-18.  I figure if I can make it into a multi-sensory project, it will be much easier for them to learn the passage.  It’s all about the Armor of God, so I think it will be fun.  I’m planning on starting with verse 10 this week.  I’ll post a picture of how the projects came out next week.

What I finished reading this week:
Steal Like an Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creativeby Austin Kleon. I liked this book. Quite a few creative ideas – like separating my work space into creative and non-creative. I’m going to see how I can implement that with my limited space. Quick read and quite thought provoking too.
A New York Christmas: A Novel by Anne Perry. I love this author. Her descriptions of 1800’s England and America are entertaining and educational. This was her typical mystery with lots of hand wringing and agonizing unspoken dramas included. Fast and although not as awesome as her usual ones, I do enjoy these holiday novelettes.
Better Homes and Gardens Kitchen and Bath Renovation Guide (Better Homes and Gardens Home). We have some renovation work to do on our almost 70 year old mid-century modern home. This is a current publication and I got a lot of good ideas. Although my copy is from the library and I’ll be returning it – when we get closer to remodeling, I’ll get it again. Really enjoyed this.

This week I’ll continue with the ones I either haven’t started or didn’t finish from last week, and I’ve added a few more.
Parenting the Wholehearted Child: Captivating Your Child’s Heart with God’s Extravagant Grace, by Jeannie Cunnion. I’m LOVING this book! I’m so glad I bought it. It has all kinds of great suggestions for loving and discipling your child in a way that makes sense. I highly recommend this! I’m savoring it and taking my time reading it.  I’m going to try and get Jeannie on as a podcast guest to talk about this book.  I think you would LOVE it too!
The Attributes of God: A Journey into the Father’s Heart by A. W. Tozer. I’m so excited to dig into this one. I’m working on the beginnings of a new book idea and this is part of my research.:)
The Miracle Morning: The Not-So-Obvious Secret Guaranteed to Transform Your Life (Before 8AM)by Hal Elrod. You guys. This book is an answer to prayer! For more than a year I have been saying I want to get into a morning routine…but I just haven’t been able to. I’m not even sure why it’s been so difficult, but I just haven’t been able to dig in. But can you believe it? I finally found the answer.

Last night as I was driving down I-5 headed to speak for a fundraising dinner, I turned on Jaime Tarde’s podcast and heard her talking with Hal. Unbelievable. Seriously. I felt like the heavens opened up and threw down just exactly what I had been searching for. I’m going to start living the Miracle Morning this week (tomorrow!), so I’ll let you know how it goes for me this time next week. Who knows? It could be just what you are looking for too!

And of course, if I have time, I’ll whip out John Grisham’s latest, Gray Mountain: A Novel because seriously, who doesn’t love a good John Grisham?

Wellness Journey
Holy Smokes! What an awesome week it has been! I’ve stuck with my program and as of Thursday the 22nd I was 13 lbs down from January 2nd. Wowzers! I feel amazing. This morning when I woke up I felt like my old self. Super happy and positive and full of energy. I remember when I did a cleanse back in 2013, my husband’s comment to me was “you’re just so nice!” Ahem…could it be that this healthy eating with out sugar and junk is positively affecting my personality and behavior? Me thinks we may be on to something!

• Yoga 3 times a week feels amazing.
• Making sure I get 7-8 hours of sleep.  This is huge because all kinds of research is confirming the negative impact lack of sleep has on metabolism. I’m determined to give myself every possible advantage.
• Exercise is included with my Miracle Morning, so I’ll be looking forward to that as well.

I’m just so happy to be moving forward on this goal you guys!  You can’t know how discouraging it is to week after week not only not lose any weight, but even gain!  Week after week and year after year…gets very discouraging.  I just have a feeling getting this on track is positively affecting everything else in my life.  So thankful.

Professionally:

• This past week I was able to get the 2 blog posts in I had planned as well as the speaking engagement last night.  The funny thing with the speaking event was I had prepared a really neat program – but the woman who spoke before me (it was an event to raise money for victims of domestic violence) said something that pricked my heart and when I got up there I felt impressed to give a whole other talk!  That doesn’t happen very often, but when I’m nudged, I’ve learned to listen, so I gave a presentation on forgiveness.  Nothing like a 15 minute impromptu speech.  Thankfully, I’ve spoken on this quite a few times before, so it wasn’t completely off the cuff but I do think it was the message I was supposed to give.  Never a dull moment.
• I did not finish editing my podcast last week.  I had to let go of the idea I would be able to say, “I’ve released a podcast every single week for _____ years.”  You know what, my life is really full and doing my work is just part of it.  I chose to spend extra time with my kids this week rather than edit – and I don’t regret it.  My pride has taken a hit, but seriously.  What matters is so much more than my pride.
• This week I will edit 2 podcasts and release 1.  I’m out of town the following week, so I need to get it ready to go when I’m gone.  I’m also doing 2 interview with some really interesting women, so there should be more good stuff ahead.
• I didn’t make much headway with my book – will work on that again this week in hopes of finishing it up.

Whew!…This is a long post again.  I hope your week was good.  I guess you’ll need to humor me as I work out this exercise of a weekend review.  It’s a good accountability for me, and I hope it’s encouraging for you.

Question:  How did your week go?  Are you living your life intentionally and with purpose?  I’d love to hear your progress.  Just leave your comments below.

Big hugs,
Christy

PS – There was an article this week that said emoticons were actually positive to use in all types of communication – so now I fee vindicated that I can use smiley faces to my heart’s content.

The post Weekend Update Jan 25th appeared first on Christy Largent.

Next week I’m going to clean out Amelia’s closet and room.  The poor thing is living with piles upon piles. I was inspired by Kathy Lipp’s new book, Clutter Free: Quick and Easy Steps to Simplifying Your Space.  I plan on writing a blog post about the book later this month, so I’ll let you know how the room project goes!

What I read this week:

Of all of these, I actually only recommend two.

Anne Lamott’s Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace. This collection of essays on faith, family and community are so beautifully written it often makes you cry. I do so love her writing. Despite our faith differences, I’m always pulled towards contemplation when I read her words. Beautiful.

I love a good mystery, so Margaret Maron’s Designated Daughters (A Deborah Knott Mystery) did not disappoint.  Entertaining and fast moving, I enjoyed this quick read.

The other books were either trite (Danielle Steel, what did I expect?!…can you say, Escape!), boring, The Book of Jonah, or too difficult to wade through.  I wanted to love Dallas Willards’ award winning last book, but it was so dense I couldn’t stick with it.  I hope I have better luck next week!  Here’s what that stack looks like.  By the way, can you tell I’m a huge advocate of our public library!

What I’m planning on reading next week:

Wellness Journey:  Well, I’ve successfully completed week 1!  I’m so happy!  Here’s how it’s going so far…

• So far the food has been pretty tasty and easy to prepare.  I like most of it.
• My favorite thing is that the week’s eating is all planned out and even prepackaged so it’s easy for me to get the food out the night before and have it ready to go in the morning.
• I’m drinking a lot and even writing down what I eat.   That’s a huge win for me because I generally tend to fight that kind of restriction.  But I keep telling myself this is just for 4 months (my goal!) and is a means to an end.
• No exercise but I did go to the chiropractor and also get a massage.  I liked that because it’s a way of taking care of myself.  On Thursday I stepped into a hole in the road while crossing the street to my kids’ piano lesson.  I really shocked my body…thus the trip to the chiro.  But I’m strong and I’m on the mend.  Next week I’ll add in some yoga and walking.  That should feel great!

I just don’t like cooking.  There, I said it.  The incredible amount of time (even with use of the crock pot) just drives me crazy!  Thanks to Sara Fragoso and Everyday Paleo, I now know how to cook, but I just don’t like it.  I guess I would like it more if that’s all I had to do…but with a messy home and kids to play with and books to read, for heaven’s sake!, I just don’t enjoy all the time I spend in the kitchen.  So, that’s just a little aside that’s neither here nor there, but I thought some of you might be freed to say the same thing by hearing me say it.  And some of you might have suggestions for how I could simplify so that I like it more.

Professionally:  This week was neat because I finally got my first podcast of the year posted, and have set up a new schedule…so that it will be released on Wednesdays from now on.  The frustrating thing is that for some reason my podcasts since December 1st are not showing up in iTunes…so I spent a ton of time trying to figure that out…and it’s still not fixed! Argh.

I also had a productive work session with my tech helper and the support team from Infusionsoft, the program I purchased for all my emailings and so forth.  It’s another steep learning curve, but I’m so excited to have it because it will allow me to offer all sorts of exciting products and programs directly to you in a professional and automized way.

Next week I have a few big things on my calendar.

• Saturday I’m speaking for a local non-profit, Homes of Hope for Vida, which is an organization that helps victims of domestic abuse with long term housing.  I’ll be working on that program this week.
• I’m also planning on finishing up all the edits of my book and starting on the recording.  My plan is to launch on Tuesday February 3rd, so stay tuned!
• I’m also working on learning more of that infusionsoft support program I mentioned earlier.  As I said, that’s a steep learning curve, so I’m trying to do a little bit every day.
• Add in a new podcast and 2 blog posts, a day trip to San Francisco to take my son to a Dr.’s appointment, filming for my TV-Show all morning Thursday and a field trip with my daughter’s class on Friday, and it’s going to be a very full week!  I hope yours will be fabulous too!

Question:  What are you working on?  What are you looking forward to?  I’d love to hear from you.  Just leave your comments below.

The post Weekend Update appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas: 

Part 1 – Interview highlights

• The magic bullet of Sleep
• Why you should just say NO!
• Power in Planning
• Focusing on Wellness not Weight
• Learning lessons from failures

Part 2 – My Wellness Journey

Website Links

Connie Clay Website

Dr. Daniel Amen and Amen Clinics

Recommended Resources

Connie’s Book – Quit Skinny!: 7 Simple, Sane Steps to Wellness

The Amen Solution: The Brain Healthy Way to Get Thinner, Smarter, Happier, by Dr. Daniel Amen

Master Your Metabolism: The 3 Diet Secrets to Naturally Balancing Your Hormones for a Hot and Healthy Body!, by Jillian Michaels

Jillian Michaels: Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism, Jillian Michaels DVD

And I’m adding this since we talked about saying “No” and it’s not easy! The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands, by Lysa TerKeurst

And I’m also adding these – since these are helping me get to the emotional part of why I eat what I eat.
Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God, Not Food, by Lysa TerKeurst

The Tapping Solution for Weight Loss & Body Confidence: A Woman’s Guide to Stressing Less, Weighing Less, and Loving More, by Jessica Ortner

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Psalm 107:9  “For He has satisfied the thirsty soul, And the hungry soul He has filled with what is good.”

The post #038: Quit Skinny with Connie Clay and My Wellness Journey (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Sometimes getting started is the hardest work of all.

Do you know what I mean?  Doing the work is the fun part – getting started is the challenge.  I’m a great one for planning out and creating a big vision broken down into smaller, actionable steps.  But then I have to stop and go get the kids from school or start dinner, or clean up after the dog.

And once I’m stopped, it’s often difficult to get back into the swing of work again.  So, as a practical matter, I’ve decided to use my early morning hours as a kind of “bonus” time for the next year month, and see how it works out.  I’ll let you know!

I’m behind on my podcasts and obviously on my blog posts as well…to be honest, I’ve been a bit distracted as I’m beginning a new nutrition plan. (Notice how I didn’t say “diet”.) After doing all my work on goals and plans for 2015, the one thing staring me in the face was that big-old-fat goal of losing weight!

I know for some of you, you have NO IDEA what I’m talking about.  You never saw a cookie you couldn’t resist.  But many of you will be tracking along with me here. Right?

For some reason, this weight albatross has been hanging around for far too long and I’ve decided to get some help cutting it off…No, not a surgeon!  But I’m working with both a physical coach and a mental coach to get me realigned with where I really want to be.

Last Friday when I walked up the steps to my first appointment with the health coach, my heart was beating a tattoo, my hands were shaking and I had that familiar tight feeling in my chest. (No, not from taking the stairs either!)

As we got into the meeting and she began taking my measurements, she just chuckled.  “You don’t like this much, do you Christy?”  I grinned ruefully as she added, “It’s written all over your face.”

All I could think about was what if this doesn’t work.  What if I fail again?  And what on earth makes me think I can be successful this time when I’ve failed so many, many times before?  And how embarrassing this whole thing is anyway.

But right in the middle of our conversation I realized this is nothing but that ravaging beast FEAR rearing it’s nasty head once again.  Fear of failure. Fear of not being enough. Fear of…well, you fill in the blank.

Because this time my fear was wrapped around the ridiculous obstacle of weight loss.  But what is yours wrapped around? And how can you be brave and fearless in overcoming it today?

My personal prescription for bravery today includes writing this blog post.  Being honest with you about what’s going on with me feels quite scary and dare I say it…vulnerable?

Because, after all, I’m a speaker and trainer on communication skills – not lifestyle blogging or health and wellness, right?

But one thing I know for sure, is that for me, it’s darn near impossible to keep limping along in failure in this one area, while expecting to be able to give you my A-Game in my professional endeavors. Because after 15 years of this gig – I know you can spot a phony a million miles away.

So I won’t be a phony.  I’ll be authentic with all my foibles.  I’ll lay them out on the table, and then after that’s finished, we’ll get to talk about personality styles, and getting along with difficult people, and how to create fantastic customer relationships, and all the other topics I love to help you with.

I have all kinds of exciting things ahead for us this year.  This month I’ll finally release my 31 Positive Communication Skills for Women Devotional.  Next up I’ve got an awesome free webinar I’ll be offering on the topic of Getting Along With Difficult People.  We’ll follow that up in late February with my first ever online bootcamp — Powerful Communication Skills for Women.  More on all of this later…it’s so exciting!

In the meantime, I’d like to re-vamp my blog schedule a bit.  This is what you can expect.

• Monday:  Communication Skills — Strategies you can use
• Wednesday:  Encouraging Words for Working Moms Podcast
• Friday:  Personality Styles — Bring out the best and dealing with the worst
• Weekend: Update on my weight loss getting fit, healthy and strong journey along with periodic updates on what I’m doing and the books I’m reading.  I really enjoy those posts from some of my favorite bloggers, so I thought since I’m such a reading freak,  I’d share my reading adventures with you.

Well, if you’ve read this far…thank you!  I love you too!  Be sure you’re subscribed to my site to get all the updates, new stuff and freebies I’ll be bringing out this year.

Question:  I’d love to know what your challenges are this year.  Are you already off to the races or are you still circling the bay trying to get up the nerve to get started?  What are you working on this year? What’s holding you back?  I’d love to hear from you!  Just leave your comments below – on the blog or FB – either are great!

The post How’s Your Year Going So Far? My Honest Confession… appeared first on Christy Largent.

Timeless truths I embraced this year…

1.  You can do more than you realize.  When I review what I did during the past year, and all the new stuff I learned, I’m really encouraged.  Just because I’m not in school doesn’t mean I can’t still be learning and growing and this year proved it for me, and it is true for you too.

2.  Get help.  There are so many people who can help you – figure out what you need and then ask for help.  The right person will appear. The book by Amanda Palmer called, The Art of Asking: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Let People Help is a great resource if you are ready to get inspired to ask in your own life.

Areas to get help:

• Personally – therapist for help with the inside
• Physically – trainer at the gym
• Professionally – help with technical aspects.  Mentor. Professional development via webinars and conferences.  What conferences will you go to next year?  What seminars will you attend.  Who do you want more of?  You are the combination of the 5 people you hang around the most.  Who are you inviting into your life?

3.  It’s never too late to go for your dreams.  Figuring out what you really want to do is actually fun.  Take the time to make yourself a rough sketch and then start.  Don’t wait for perfection.  Lots of people talk about being imperfect and how to manage your perfectionism…get whatever help you need to get started and then start.  Once you start, then the pieces will sort themselves out.  Michael Hyatt’s Best Year Ever will help you get started with your dreams and then help you get started!

Next year – here are the 2 things I’m going to remind myself of daily so I stay focused:

1.  Take care of myself first.  The biggest “fail” of the year was with my weight and health.  Wait, let me rephrase that.  The area where I had the least amount of progress — and maybe even experienced regress was in the area of my weight and health.

I did train for and complete a 1/2 marathon, but at a heavy weight and kind of with the least effort possible principle.  2015 is going to be different.  I’m putting this effort front and center.  I know all the other stuff will fall into place as I figure out this piece of my life.

2.  Do more of what I love.  When I was doing my goal setting I discovered that of all the things I enjoyed this past year, the best part was still what drove me to work in the first place.  Speaking and teaching still top the charts and make me happiest.  So,  I’m going to make sure and do more of that this next year.  All the other stuff will still be there – but as supporting rolls to help create more opportunity to do more of what I love.

More speaking.  More stories.  More entertaining.  More laughter.  More connecting.

2015 Word of the Year:    Routine 

I have 1 outstanding, terrific and fabulous routine.  Every night I wash my face utilizing a system.  I also floss and brush my teeth.  My morning average is about 95%, but the evening is 99.9999999999%.  And this is since 1984.  30 Years! Seriously, I cannot remember a single night I have gone to bed without washing my face and brushing my teeth.  Flossing is about 98.999999%.  My night-time rituals I don’t even think about.  They are so routine as to be a ritual.  No thinking —  I just do them.  30 years!

Here’s the deal.  If I can do it in one area of my life (my face) then I can do it in others.  So my word for the year is Routine.  I’ll learn to love it.  Learn to embrace it.  Learn to flourish in the midst of it.  That will be growth!

“Routine enables creativity to flourish.”

Encouraging Word for the Year:  Proverbs 16:9 (NIRV)  “In their hearts human beings plan their lives.  But the Lord decides where their steps will take them.”

Question:  What about you?  What did you learn this year?  What are you going to focus on next year?  I’d love to hear your thoughts.  Please leave your comments below.

The post #037: Timeless Truths of 2014 and Focus for 2015 (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas: 

Part 1 – Interview highlights

• How to get started writing
• Ideas for finding connect in the midst of a dry spell
• How conferences and the global church can heal relationships
• The power of seasonal sabbath
• Using time blocks to create focus
• Making time for what energizes not depletes

Part 2 – Seasons, Community and Getting Energized

• Seasons of Life
• Building Community
• Energy to get Energized

Website Links

Denise Hughes website

Deeper Waters Community

Deeper Waters Retreat, June 26-28, 2015

Team 365

Denise’s Recommended Reading

The Daily Bible – In Chronological Order

Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Faith in Community, by Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain

My Utmost for His Highest: Quality Paperback Edition, by Oswald Chambers

The Pursuit of God, by A. W. Tozer

In This House, We Will Giggle: Making Virtues, Love, and Laughter a Daily Part of Your Family Life, by Courtney DeFeo

Favorite Quote:  “If you cannot express yourself on any subject, struggle until you can.  If you do not, someone will be the poorer all the days of his life.” Oswald Chambers

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Psalm 133:1  “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

The post #036: Denise J. Hughes and Community (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas: 

Part 1 – Interview highlights

• The positive and powerful results of allowing your work to flow from your passion, experiences and point of need
• What team parenting looks like
• Teaching kids responsibility
• The power of compartmentalizing
• Getting real about where you need help – and then getting it
• Why you should figure out how to surround yourself with people who can do what you can’t
• Giving yourself grace
• Finding peace through obedience

Part 2 – How to Recognize When Quitting is the Right Choice

• Take a good look at where you are
• Recognize that quitting IS an option
• Moving forward
• Using Goals as a measuring stick of what’s working…and what’s not working
• Videos to Your Best Year Ever program by Michael Hyatt

Website Links

Crystal Paine

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• Youtube
• Instagram

Ruth Soukup

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• Instagram

 Recommended Reading

Crystal Paine

Say Goodbye to Survival Mode: 9 Simple Strategies to Stress Less, Sleep More, and Restore Your Passion for Life, by Crystal Paine

Choose Gratitude: Blessings Journal, by Crystal Paine

Ruth Soukup

Living Well, Spending Less: 12 Secrets of the Good Life, by Ruth Soukup

How To Blog For Profit: Without Selling Your Soul, by Ruth Soukup

31 Days To A Clutter Free Life: One Month to Clear Your Home, Mind & Schedule, by Ruth Soukup

Finding your strengths….StrengthsFinder 2.0, by Tom Rath

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Question:  There were so many good ideas discussed – which was most impactful for you?  Have you ever had an experience where you quit…and felt good about it?  I’d love to hear your stories – just leave a comment below.

The post #035: Crystal Paine and Ruth Soukup – The Money Saving Mom and Living Well Spending Less Bloggers Share From Their Hearts appeared first on Christy Largent.

How did I do?  From the list of goals above, here’s what happened:  I re-started my speaking business, completed my website, had regular blog posts (what you are reading now), my podcast is being downloaded all over the world, I ran the San Jose 1/2 marathon (instead of a Tough Mudder) and as we close out December, my book is ready to be published next week.  Not everything, but a huge percentage of my original list.

What’s interesting is that the list of completed goals is more complete this year than it has ever been in all my years of goal setting.  What happened that made such a difference?  Why was I able to accomplish so much this year when for so many years my goals were thwarted?

In thinking it through, I realized I did 2 things differently last December.  2 things you might want to do this December if you are looking for growth in your own life.  Here they are.

1.  I realigned with my passion and got extremely clear on what I wanted.  As you probably know, last year I pulled back from my Arbonne business and re-entered my speaking business.  My heart is here.  My passion is here.  And what a difference it has made.  When I look at my to-do list each morning, I actually enjoy most of what I have to do.  I look forward to each day’s individual activities, and am quite enthusiastic about all the possibilities.

Here’s my question for you – are you doing what you love?  Are you even clear on what you love?  If not, I recommend you dig deep and really figure out what you were put here on earth to do.  I have a program I did last year I’d be happy to send you if want help in figuring out your passion and purpose.  It has helped a lot of people and I think it would help you too.  Being aligned is critical because once you are, you can move easily into figuring out what you want.

2.  I took Michael Hyatt’s 5 Days to Your Best Year Ever course.  I know, you’ve probably taken a goal setting course or two in your lifetime.  I had too.  And frankly, when I saw the opportunity to add one more thing to my list I was a bit hesitant.  But then I watched his free videos and found real value.  So I went ahead and signed up for it.  It was clear, practical and action oriented.  I think my results speak volumes about the value of the course.

You might think – “Yes, but you could have done all you did without taking Michael’s course.”  And maybe you’re right.  But, the fact remains I did take his course and it really was my best year ever.

He has created a new and improved free video series that gives great value now, and also gives you a taste of the updated program.  He is also running a special this year if you sign up before December 18th.  I want you to take advantage of this program.  (Notice, these are affiliate links,  yes, I get a thank you payment from Michael if you sign up through my link.)  At the very least, watch these 3 free videos and let me know what you think.  Just click on any of these highlighted words, and you’ll go straight to the videos.

What have you got to lose?  Just think, 2015 really could be Your Best Year Ever!

And as a bonus…I’m so excited about what this could do in your life, I’m creating a Private Facebook group for everyone who purchases this program through my link.  We will get to encourage each other on throughout this next year as we go for our even bigger, hairy, audacious goals together!!  After all, I’ve still got 40 lbs to lose in 2015!  Just send me an email and let me know you purchased through my link and I’ll add you to the group.

Question:  What has held you back from accomplishing your goals in the past?  What are you going to do differently this year to make sure you set and meet your goals?  I’d love to hear your ideas!  Just leave a comment below.

The post I Hit My Goals and You Can Too! appeared first on Christy Largent.

If you are interested in adoption, how it works, who it’s a fit for and how to get started, then you’ll love this podcast. I don’t have a lot of notes this week, as the story is the main thing, but I did want to give you a few great resources if you are curious and want to learn more information.

www.adoption.com  – This is a literal bounty of information on all things adoption.  Seriously.  Start here.

www.adoptionhorizons.com – This is the agency we worked with.  Super awesome!

www.bethany.org – Bethany Christian Services is a non-profit dedicated to helping families.  Specifically in the areas of foster care, adoption and post-adoptive support.  It’s a great agency.  I’m biases because my sister-in-law used to work for them.  Local offices can be found nationwide.

www.adoptivefamilies.com – This is a magazine, but it also has good information on its website.

You can read all about our adoption journey to get Graham here and at joyfuljourneyexperience.blogspot.com

I’m also so fortunate to have won 2 tickets to this adoption conference next year.  Created For Care is a conference for adoptive moms.  My friend who adopted a sibling group of 4 from Etheopia is coming with me.  She went last year and said it was fantastic.  I’ll have to do an update in February after I’ve attended.  I do know they have lots of ongoing support, so be sure to check out their beautiful website.  Thanks Mary Ostyn at OwlHaven for the generous gift!  Can’t wait!

Of course, I have to showcase some of my favorite books to recommend for adoption:

Twenty Things Adopted Kids Wish Their Adoptive Parents Knew by Sherrie Eldridge. This is a classic. I have read it several times. It’s really difficult to get through, but sometimes we have to look at what’s uncomfortable to do the best for our children. This book is a must if you are thinking of and/or have adopted.

And for after you have adopted…20 Things Adoptive Parents Need to Succeed..Discover the Unique Need of Your Adopted Child and Become the Best Parent You Can, also by Sherrie Eldridge.

And this book,  Adoption For Dummies, helped us get an overview of adoption.  Although today, I think you could do better research online at the websites I listed above.

Additionally, there are a bounty of adoption agencies.  Just google adoption and your city and see what pops up.  I’d love to hear about your journey too!

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Ephesians 1:5 “God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.”

Question:  Have you ever considered adoption?  Why or why not?  What did you relate to from our adoption story?  I’d love to hear your thoughts.  Please comment below.

The post #030: Christy Largent – Our Adoption Story (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

So as I celebrated my birthday just this past Monday, I thought it would be appropriate to do an analysis of what went as planned and what didn’t and what was per expectations and what was way over expectations.  Well, I guess you get the idea.

Following are the top 5 lessons I learned in this past year.  Maybe these will help you too as you navigate this life of constant change.

Lesson #1:  Everything will take much longer than you anticipate.

Lesson #2:  The learning curve will be steeper than you imagined.

Lesson #3:  You can’t do everything at once.

Lesson #4:  You will get discouraged.

Lesson #5:  You will succeed if you stay consistent with effort over time.

Favorite Books of the Year:

Fiction:
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie: A Flavia de Luce Mystery, by Alan C. Bradley

Letters from Skye: A Novel, by Jessica Brockmole

Still Life (Chief Inspector Armand Gamache Mysteries, No. 1), by Louise Penny

Nutrition/Health/Faith:
Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth about Wheat, Carbs, and Sugar–Your Brain’s Silent Killers, by Dr. David Perlmutter

The Tapping Solution for Weight Loss & Body Confidence: A Woman’s Guide to Stressing Less, Weighing Less, and Loving More, by Jessica Ortner

The Tapping Solution: A Revolutionary System for Stress-Free Living, by Nick Ortner

What Happens When Women Pray, by Evelyn Christenson

Business:
The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months, by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington

Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World, by Michael Hyatt

The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition, by Strunk and White

Encouraging Word of the Week:
Proverbs 16:9 “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.”
Proverbs 19:21 “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”

The post #028: Christy Largent – 5 Big Lessons from a Year of Change (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

It was while working at an alternative school, she completed her Master’s degree in special education at Lynchburg College and a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership at the University of Virginia.  She has built Liberty University’s education program to include over 1000 students in the special education program.  Additionally, she has developed a love of sharing what God has laid on her heart over the years as a follower of Christ, a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and educator.  We are the benefactors of that love today.

Key Ideas:

Part 1:  Interview

• Moving through disappointing times
• The power of remembering
• Trust and Obey
• Flexibility and the importance of keeping a calendar
• How to handle negative feedback

Part 2: Dealing with Disappointments

• Remember the past – Wes King song, Remember
• Float instead of fight
• Have confidence in your creator
• Look to the future with Hope

Website links:

www.womenoffaith.com  This is a link to all of Beth’s blog posts for Women of Faith

www.liberty.edu  This is a link to the list of Beth’s blog posts for Liberty University

Beth’s Recommended Reading:

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change, by Stephen R. Covey

Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership: Seeking God in the Crucible of Ministry by Ruth Haley Barton

Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace, and Learning the Hard Way by Shauna Niequist

Contact Beth:

Facebook:  Beth Ackerman

Encouraging Words of the Week:  

Isaiah 12:2   “Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid.  The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.”

Jeremiah 29:11 “I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you.  Plans to give you a future and a hope.”

Question:  What was your favorite part of this interview?  What has been your biggest disappointment and what have you done to move through them?   I’d love to hear your stories, just leave a comment below.

The post #027: Beth Ackerman and Disappointments (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

Part 1:  Interview

• The importance of being proactive with your activities (and what happens when you aren’t!)
• What happens when you switch careers mid-life
• Why difficulties are not the end of the story
• “We learn the most when we feel weakest and most afraid”

Part 2: What I learned when I felt my weakest and most afraid

1. Look at myself first
2. I can let go of the outcome and trust God
3. Just do the next right thing

Website links:  (This week we discussed)

 https://loriandsteven.wordpress.com/

www.sacredspace.ie

www.momastery.com

Lori and Steven’s Recommended Reading and Resources:

15 Ways to Make Love Impossible, by Lori and Steven McClure

Noisetrade – Free Download of their book here

The Ragamuffin Gospel: Good News for the Bedraggled, Beat-Up, and Burnt Out, by Brennan Manning.

A Grief Observed, by C.S. Lewis.

Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life, by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend.

Encouraging Word of the Week:  2 Corinthians 12:9 (New Living Translation)   “Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.  So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”

Question:  What was the most encouraging part of this interview?  Are you going through any rough times that would make these ideas helpful?  I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.  And I’d love to pray for you too. Please leave your comments below.

The post #026: Lori and Steven McClure and Learning through Weakness (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

Part 1:  Interview

• There is power in community
• Enthusiasm is contagious
• The beauty of an early morning ritual
• Keeping sane with sleep, exercise, friendship and the Word

Part 2: How to be Extravagantly Generous

1. Start with what you have – talents, time, ideas, stuff
2. Look for ways to help – hint, you don’t have to start it.   Amy’s website has some great suggestions
3. Pick a week to eat from the pantry/freezer, and with your kids, pick out a way to be generous with the grocery money
4. Discuss what being it would look like for your family to be extravagantly generous – then pick something to DO to live it out
5. Don’t wait

Website links:

Amy L. Sullivan  Amy’s website with load of great information here.

Amy’s Recommended Reading and Resources:

When More is Not Enough – How to Stop Giving Your Kids What They Want and Give Them What They Need, by Amy L. Sullivan  How important is this?!  Very!

15 Ways to Make Love Impossible, by Lori and Steven McClure  – watch for their upcoming interview on our podcast in a few weeks.

Start A Snowball – Helping Kids do Good  What an excellent resource for your family!

Encouraging Word of the Week:  1 Timothy 6:17-19 (The Message)   “Tell those rich in this world’s wealth to quit being so full of themselves and so obsessed with money, which is here today and gone tomorrow.  Tell them to go after God, who piles on all the riches we could ever manage, to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous.  If they do that, they’ll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life.”

Question:  What was your favorite part of this interview?  What are you doing to teach and train your kids how to implement giving into their everyday lives?  I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.

The post #025: Amy L. Sullivan – When More is Not Enough and Extravagant Generosity (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

Part 1:  Interview

• Give the Hope Virus
• Chase one rabbit – how do we do that?
• We can strive to make every day joyful, not just perfect
• Some clever marketing tips

Part 2: How to “Chase One Rabbit” when everything is multiplying like…rabbits!

1. Make a master list
2. Identify the one theme or big idea that emerges
3. Pick the top 3 items, activities, elements that will drive you towards your big idea
4. Write your list the night before
5. Execute your list with a re-visiting at noon daily

Website links:

www.colleensheehyorme.com  Colleen’s website with load of great information here.

How Great Thou Part – A Catholic Girl’s musings on Love, Divorce and Life.  This is a direct link to Colleen’s columns for Beliefnet.com – which is a great resource for all things of faith – for all faiths.  You’ll love it!

Colleen’s Recommended Reading:

The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts by Gary Chapman. An excellent resource for understanding how to show your love in a way your loved one can receive best. HIGHLY recommended.

When GOD Winks: How the Power of Coincidence Guides Your Life by Squire Rushnell. One I haven’t read yet, but look forward to reading.

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Proverbs 3:5-6  “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your paths.”

Question:  What was your favorite part of this interview?  Are you scattered or laser focused?  What are your trick for chasing one rabbit?  Or do you even think it’s necessary?   I’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions.

The post #024: Colleen Sheehy Orme and How to Chase One Rabbit appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

Part 1:  Interview

• Best practices for how to start (and run) a business with a friend
• The importance of transparency and forgiveness
• How to tap into the power of mentorship
• Strategies for handling conflicts when they arise

Part 2:  Forgiveness

• Is a choice
• Requires action (and it’s HARD!)
• Must be practiced
• Will reach it’s conclusion

Website Links:

www.strongbodywholeheart.com

www.facebook.com/strongbodywholeheart

www.twitter.com/sbwheart

http://instagram.com/sbsheart_kelly,     http://instagram.com/sbwheart_maggie

Recommended Reading:
Forgiveness: Finding Peace Through Letting Go, by Adam Hamilton

Courage: Igniting Self-Confidence, by Debbie Ford

The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are, by Brene Brown

Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead, by Brene Brown

Encouraging Word of the Week: Matthew 6:9-13 – The Lord’s Prayer     “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.  Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  Give us today our daily bread.  And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

Question:  Have you ever thought of starting a business with a friend?  Did you do it?  Why or Why not?  What about the transparency section of this show?  Is that something you struggle with or is it more natural for you?  Finally, how have you experienced forgiveness in your life?  I’d love to read your thoughts and answers below!

The post #022: Strong Body Whole Heart – Kelly & Maggie and Forgiveness (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

1. What do you LOVE to do?
2. What do other people tell you you are very good at doing? (You get a ton of positive feedback when you do this thing).
3. What business opportunities could you find around this thing you love. (Get creative here and solicit ideas from others).
4. Figure out some baby steps for getting started.
5. Start doing more of what you love – for free.  Do it anywhere and everywhere you can no matter how much money you are making.  Proof of concept will come as more people realize you do this and they will ask you for it more and more.  Once you are really, really good at what you are doing, the money will follow.

Resource:

www.liveyourlegend.net – Scott Dinsmore. Scott has build his life work around helping others discover and live the the work they were born to do.  His website has tons of free resources and ideas to help you find your “what”.  I think you’ll love his passion and heart for helping.

Encouraging Words of the week:

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work heartily, as unto the Lord and not for men.”

The post #020: Finding Your Labor of Love (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Two weekends ago, I had 1.89 miles down on a treadmill run of 7 miles. (If you’ve ever experienced Dallas in August, then you understand why I was inside on a treadmill). All I wanted to do was quit. My breathing was ragged, my knees ached and my lower back felt as tight as the sheets on a marine’s bed.

My head filled with all the reasons I could stop. All the reasons to procrastinate put off this long run to another day. Too boring, too tired, not well fueled, too old… But I just couldn’t stop. I did walk. But I didn’t stop.

Have you ever felt like quitting? I did a podcast on the power of quitting when it’s the right time to quit, when you need to change direction and when you know beyond a shadow of doubt that the current path you are on is not serving you well.

But have you ever wanted to quit a big goal that’s meaningful and important to you? You want to quit because it’s really, really hard and you’re tired and you Just. Want. To. Stop.

That’s what I felt that Saturday. And here’s what helped me keep putting one foot in front of the other to the very end of that long run. Maybe it will help you too.

4 Reasons Why won’t I quit and why you shouldn’t either:

1.  Remember your why. Back in the day with Arbonne, the most powerful part of any discussion with a business partner was always “their why”. You see, I understood how easy it was to quit when things got difficult. But if I could help her dig deep and really clarify her WHY then that big, heart connected vision would see her through many a rough evening.

And the same was true with my goal. It’s easy to set the goal, but what kept me focused and moving was the bigger reason WHY I set that goal. My why: I committed to finding a way to increase my fitness. This 1/2 marathon weekly training plan is the discipline that will keep me connected to the final victory – of finishing the journey well.

2.  Tap into the bigger reason. Yes, I want to finish what I started and hopefully even shed a few pounds, but the bigger reason is I want to set an example for my kids – especially my daughter. The kids heard and saw me get into gear for running this race. As I’ve shared before (especially on my podcast), the past few years I set a number of goals and was not able to achieve them. This year I’m breaking that cycle, and the 1/2 is the physical component of what I think of as my transformation. Finishing what I started with this training program and running on October 5th will be a big piece of my transformation puzzle.

3.  Recognize there are high and low points along the way. When I wanted to quit at the almost 2 mile point, I felt horrible! But about 2 tenths of a mile later I felt a bit better, by 3 miles I was gaining strength and had about a mile of sweetness before I felt horrible all over again. It was a cycle that repeated until I finished. Because I stuck with it, I was able to experience all of it. Quitting would have short-circuited the process and I would have robbed myself of the additional good as well as the character-building bad.

4.  It feels so good when you finish. I didn’t stop. I kept trudging forward, using speed intervals to break up the monotony, and before I knew it I had finished my 7 miles. And it felt GREAT!

Now, if I can just remember that feeling as I set out tomorrow to complete my 9 miles.

Question: How about you? Is it easy for you to quit or are you someone who sticks with projects and goals no matter what? Do you think it’s important to stick with it even when it’s difficult? When is the right time to quit? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment below.

The post 4 Reasons Why I Didn’t Quit and Why You Won’t Either appeared first on Christy Largent.

Here’s a list of the books I read to avoid my “to do” list.  (They are all really good books!)  I talk about them a bit in the podcast too.

The Bookman’s Tale: A Novel of Obsession, by Charlie Lovett

The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance—What Women Should Know

You Are the Placebo: Making Your Mind Matter, by Dr. Joe Dispenza

The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are, by Brene Brown

On Writing: 10th Anniversary Edition: A Memoir of the Craft, by Stephen King

All In: You Are One Decision Away From a Totally Different Life, by Mark Batterson

The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears

The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands, Lysa TerKeurst

So, there’s a huge list of ways to avoid doing what you need to be doing. Only one of these was really directly impacting something on my list. (Lysa’s book)

Strategies for you to implement to reclaim your light:

1. Figure out what you really want.  And find the fear that’s keeping you stuck.  (Fear of Not enough, Fear of Rejection or Fear of Success)
2. Take the first steps towards what you want.
3. Let yourself celebrate your victory.  (Even if it seem insignificant in the overall effort.)

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Matthew 5: 14-16  “You are the light of the world.  A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

The post #017: Throw Down Fear and Light Up (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

Driving down the coast of California with a 7 and 10 year old in tow, making periodic stops at California Missions does NOT a fairytale make.  I’f you’d been with us, here’s a bit of what you might have heard…(see if you relate)

“Pay attention and  look at this view! People come from all over the world to see this beautiful landscape!”

“Stop hitting your brother!”

“There’s a statue of Father Serra – let’s get another a picture”

“Don’t you dare touch your sister again!”

“No, we’re not going to the beach until the end of the day”

“Write this down, this will be good for your report on the California Missions this fall.”  (You would hear muttering in response.)

“Please be quiet, we’re going to stop in just 2 hours a few minutes!”

Needless to say, as I sit here in the hotel room this morning (the pool is closed for maintenance, the beach has no beachside cafes and the one umbrella topped tables is full of HS girls in their pajamas playing on their i-phones). I figure there must be something good from all this I can share with you.  The must be a lesson here somewhere.

Because you see, I woke up early with my heart racing thinking of the things I left undone when we left for vacation.  Those items are still sitting on my computer in my inbox.  The phone calls still need to be made.  The emails still need to be returned.  The blog posts written.  The sheer volume of WORK!  It’s overwhelming.

This re-starting a business has been a lot harder and slower than I anticipated.  I envisioned a quick turnaround.  I pictured myself as a speedy jet boat, making a swift, powerful, unencumbered 180, then racing quickly in the other direction.

I guess the reality is that I’m more of a cruise ship.  Loaded down with husband and kiddos and activities and responsibilities.  With that in mind, I’m taking a big breath and going to share with you a few ideas that helped me this morning.  Maybe they will help you navigate your circumstances too.  I’m writing this in first person, so please put your name in here and feel free to make it your own.

I’m me, not anyone else.  In the midst of my anxiety this morning I opened an email from a very well know and extremely successful female speaker.  She has started a world-wide ministry, written a bazillion books including 2 NY Times best sellers, has an enormous online and in-person following, adopted like 10 kids from Africa, has a bedazzling marriage….well, you get the picture.  What trap did I fall into again? That’s right.  Comparison.  I had to remind myself that I’m me.  The end. My story can only start when the comparison ends.

Work with what I’ve got.  So I’m not sitting by the beach being awed by the wonder of God’s creation as I type these words.  My kids are in and out of the room.  I’m sitting at a fake wood table by the wall AC that’s blowing fast and furious.  That’s ok.  This is all the time I have, so I’m going to make the most of it.  I have a feeling this is a message you might need to be reminded of too.

Break it down.  When I’m overwhelmed, it’s easy to let my mind run crazy with ALL the things that are not happening.  I find when I take the time to list down what these things are, it releases some chemical so I feel better.  It puts it in perspective. It gives me a chance to see what the gaps are and what the REAL (not imagined) needs are.  Breaking it down gives me the bigger picture.

Experience your moment.  I must admit my temptation is to fret and stew this vacation away trying to fit work in every bit of alone spare time I can grab.  Instead, I’m going to finish this post.  Shoot out a few fast emails that say I will get back with them after my vacation is over next Monday.  I’ll do a min-podcast tomorrow morning early before everyone is up and get it posted on Thursday, but other than that, I’m going to enjoy the rest of this vacation without regret.

There will always be more work.  But I will never, ever, have another week with my sweet little chickens (as I call them) like this week.  So I’m going to embrace it and enjoy it.

I have a feeling all the expectations I had for this week will be way blown away by the memories we actually make.  And when I get back to the work, my hunch is that it will be with fresh eyes and a renewed spirit.  Happy Summer!

Question:  What part of this post do you relate to?  Please let me know I’m not the only one!!

The post I’m So Overwhelmed! And I’m on VACATION! appeared first on Christy Largent.

Key Ideas:

How do you know if it’s time to make a change?

1. You feel a deep sense of discontent.
2. You don’t enjoy what you’re doing anymore.
3. You are not experiencing fulfillment.
4. You have physical symptoms of discomfort.
5. You’re not having successes anymore.

What to do when you are ready to make a change.

1. Start Researching
2. Start Connecting with your Connections (Circle of Influence)
3. Create a rough plan of action and get started.
4. Review and Reflect

Best Book Resources: 

The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results, by Gary Keller
Finding Your Element: How to Discover Your Talents and Passions and Transform Your Life, by Sir Ken Robinson

Website Resources:

www.moneysavingmom.com

www.hellomrbrown.com

michaelhyatt.com

http://youtu.be/KDhhIghXxfo  (Sir Ken Robinson talking about passion – just 2 minutes long)

One more thing:  Remember, my book give away this week for the first person to rate and leave a review on iTunes gets The ONE Thing as my gift!

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Proverbs 15:22  “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.”

Question:  What do you need to let go of?   Where have you let things slide or stagnate and are you ready to move your life forward? What’s holding you back?  I can’t wait to read your comments below.

The post #011: How to Know If, When and How to Change Direction (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

And then, the more I thought about it, the more the idea resonated.  100 Year Plan.  And the more I thought about it, the more appealing it became.  Just think about it.  What will your mark be in 100 years?  What am I doing now, so that in 2114 ripples will still be felt?

So whether you’re thinking professionally (like my husband and his company do), or yourself personally, taking a REALLY long view is sure to refocus you on what’s really important.

And since we are now almost to the exact 1/2 way point in the year, this is also a perfect time to pull out your goals for 2014 and look at them in this new light.  The light of 2114.

All 100 year plans for the forest must include seasons of clearing, planting, growing and harvesting. (For a great podcast on seasons in your business, I recommend you visit http://rayedwards.com/112/.  Ray has done a terrific job of talking about it in his feature segment “stop trying to find clients”.)  Following are some practical steps you can take today to create and implement your own 100 year plan.

1. Draw out a 100 year timeline and fill it up with you and your vision.  Imagine who will be there in 100 years.  Imagine what might be on there from your work.  Write it all out.
2. Next, write down what you most want to be/do/have by the time you leave the timeline (die).
3. Sift those desires through the sieve of time.  Do they fit?  Do they fall into the 100 year value category?  If not, that’s OK, but you may find yourself rearranging your priorities to incorporate activities of more lasting value.
4. Now, do the hard work of clearing out what doesn’t hold up and preparing the “soil” for new seedlings.  In forestry, only the best and strongest are planted in the prepared soil.  I think we could do the same.  Only the best and strongest activities/ideas can be included into our timeline.  Only plant things that will grow and blossom with the years.
5. Because you have your timeline filled up with things of long-term value, you can be focused and nurture an environment of support and growth.  Quickly thin out any weeds and/or volunteers that sprout and threaten to derail the growth of the best.  Plan for and create a positive nurturing environment for your ideas to grow into great things.

You might feel overwhelmed at the thought of a 100 year plan.  But if I may twist a quote from one of my good friends, “It’s going to be 2114 anyway,” so my friends, this is your opportunity to be intentional with the impact you will make in this life.  Today’s a great day to start!

Question:  Have you ever thought of making a 100-year-plan?  What appeals to you about this idea?  Are you motivated to look at your goals through this prism now?  I’d love to hear your thoughts!  Please leave your comments below.

The post Do You Need a 100 Year Plan? appeared first on Christy Largent.

Prior to 2007 Doni was an award-winning newspaper opinion columnist, feature and food writer recognized by the Associated Press, the California Newspaper Publishers Association and E.W. Scripps. She is a graduate of Chico State University and she lives in Redding, CA.

Key Ideas From this Interview:

• How to overcome adversity when (not if!) it hits, both professional and personally
• Strategies you can use to make your calendar your best boundary enforcer
• The home cook’s best friend
• A surprise ending that will shock and encourage you

Best Book Resource: 
The Anatomy of Story: 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller

Website: anewscafe.com

Part 2: How to Stop Procrastinating

1. Get Clear on What You Want
2. Write it down
3. Start! – Big or Little, just do something
4. Reward yourself
5. Bonus Idea:  Get really good at your top 3 (hint, you’re less likely to procrastinate on what you love)

Resources for Procrastination:

Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time

The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results

Both of these books will serve you very well in staying on target and moving yourself forward.  Both have been huge in my own life.  And as an added bonus, the first 2 people to subscribe, rate and review in iTunes will get 1 of these books.  Just email me and let me know you wrote the review and I’ll get the books out to you.

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Proverbs 16:9 – (Hebrew Names Version)  “A man’s heart plans his course, But the LORD directs his steps.”

Question:  What do you procrastinate on the most?  What keeps you from starting?  What was most compelling from today’s show?  Please leave your comments below.

The post #009: Doni Chamberlain – Media Expert, Entrepreneur and How to Stop Procrastinating (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

From 1999 to 2004 Laurie raced on a top ten world class adventure racing team. She won the California Outdoor Hall of Fame Award in 2006, and her story has been featured in The San Francisco Chronicle, The Sacramento Bee, Her Sports and Enjoy Magazine. Laurie Bagley holds a Master’s degree in Outdoor Leadership.  Of course, her favorite role is that of mother.

Key Ideas From this Interview:

• Suggestions for how to fit fitness into your busy life
• Strategies you can use to overcome adversity and challenges, including Fear
• Creative ways to find a mentor
• Steps you can take now to achieve big goals

Best Book Resource: (She wrote this!)
Summit!: One Woman’s Mount Everest Climb Guides You to Success

Here’s what Brian Tracy, author of “No Excuses, The Power of Self Discipline,” and personal growth guru, says about Laurie’s book: “This exciting book shows you how to set big, inspiring goals, and then back them with desire, discipline and determination.”     I think you’ll love the book too!

Website: www.lauriebagley.com

Part 2: SMART Goals

• Specific – Details that are specific, not general
• Measurable – Able to be measured to see if you’ve completed the goal
• Attainable – Something that is actually possible to do
• Realistic – Something that is not only possible, but realistic – for you
• Timely or Time Sensitive – There is an element of time to the goal

This is a quick overview of what I discuss in detail and with examples in the last portion of the show.

Encouraging Word of the Week:  Jeremiah 29:11  “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord.  Plans to prosper you and not to harm you.  Plans to give you a hope and a future.”

Question:  What are some of your goals?  How are you working towards them?  Are they SMART goals?  I’d love to hear what you’re working towards.  Please leave your comments below.

The post #008: Laurie Bagley – Everest Summit, Overcoming Fear and Goal Setting (Podcast) appeared first on Christy Largent.

When I got home and after the car was unpacked, the clothes in the washer and most of the dirt wiped off, I picked up a book I’ve had sitting on my desk for 2 weeks or so.  In light of the way my non-stop self-talk had run riot after a weekend of being reminded I’m not where I want to be physically, (the end of the month challenge…remember?!?) the title caught my attention.  Crash the Chatterbox by Steven Furtick is timely to say the least.

Right at the beginning he reminded me that this frustration I experience between what I want to do and what I currently experience is nothing new.  In fact, the apostle Paul beautifully shared with us how he was constantly “at war” with this battle in his mind.  “I do what I don’t want to do, and I don’t do what I want to do,” Paul said.   Sound familiar?

If you struggle with your self-talk, I think you would enjoy  Crash the Chatterbox too.  I’m about 1/2 way through it now, and so far, there have been 2 key ideas I want to share with you.

1.  Look to God rather than people for approval.  My personality tends to look to others for their approval.  I work harder for others than I do for myself.  I focus on being the best student, the best friend, the best worker, the best daughter.  And it seems like I’m always striving to be perfect so that I’ll hear “good job” from the person I’m working for approval from.

Instead, I”m going to take Steven’s reminder to heart and realize that God has already said “good job Christy.”  In fact, he has already said, “Good Job!” to you too.  I’m already fully approved of and so are you.

Following hard on the heels of this need for approval, is my desire to compare.          2.  Dump that darned comparison trap!  It was so tempting to trot out my old friend – especially this past weekend as the end of month brought many promotions in my former business.  Several friends whom I had watched start their business’ after me, and then promote past me had just achieved the top level of the company.  I am so happy for them.  Really.  I am.

And I’m kind of sad for me.  For the lost hopes and dreams.  For the title of “National Vice President” that I didn’t achieve.   And then, just in time, I was reminded by Steven that comparison is ridiculous. Let me quote from him (just in case any of you could benefit from this thought too.)

 “Before you were born – before any of your defects were apparent to you — they were absolutely apparent to God.  That didn’t stop Him from calling your name and setting you apart.  He placed you on the earth at a certain time for a pre-decided purpose.

 And even when you can’t seem to get your act together, your identity is secure and completely intact.  Because in Christ, who you are matters infinitely more than anything you do or cannot do.”

And that’s the truth.  That “pre-decided purpose” just makes my heart sing.  Because I know that had I achieved that rank I was working so hard for, I wouldn’t be right here with you right now. There would be no blog.  No podcast. No speaking career.  And for whatever reason, I know without a shadow of a doubt that this is where I’m supposed to be.

All 187 lbs., achey back, creaky knees and all.  And as I get my mind repositioned, whatever that process looks like, is when the weight will drop and the fitness improve.  In the meantime, ping-pong anyone?

Question:  How do you handle your self talk?  What’s your biggest challenge?  Can you see yourself using the two ideas I discussed?

The post What’s in Your Mind? appeared first on Christy Largent.

Crazy, isn’t it?  I know!  I laughed so much and actually thought, so darling, but seriously, so tacky!   I then shared it with some of my best girlfriends.  And then one girlfriend said something that rocked me.  She said, “What a cute invitation, I’ll bet it’s going to be a really fun wedding.”  And she’s exactly right.  It will be a super fun wedding.  The people are great fun and I love them.  They have an awesome sense of humor (see above example), and it will be a time of celebration and joy.  So what if the invitation is not my preference? (Tiffanys, engraved on cream paper if you really want to know).  But thanks to a shift in perspective, that invitation went from tacky to terrific.

What if, when I looked in the mirror, or tried on my clothes, or got ready to leave in the morning, I gave myself a perspective shift.  How about a perspective that says thank you God for my sturdy legs that will carry me far.  Thank you for a healthy heart that beats with love and excitement for others.  Thank you for soft arms that hold my husband and children tightly.  Thank you for diligent hands that wash dishes and correct math homework and type encouraging words.  Thank you for a full belly that is testimony of your gracious abundance.

When we are thankful, our hearts and minds are full.  There’s no room for “not enough” in a mind and heart full of gratitude.

 A perspective of discontent comes from focusing on what we don’t have.   What’s not enough.  Whether it’s our backyards, our bodies or our backgrounds.  Not enough outside seating to invite the neighbors for dinner.  Not skinny enough to look good in those fancy jeans. Not enough experience to…(fill in the blank.)  Not enough is a big, fat, ugly lie.  We are all enough.  We are all enough.  Just.  As. We.  Are.

And maybe Mother’s Day is a good time to let go of the lie that my own mother was not enough.  She was enough.  She did the best she could with what she had.  She always loved me unconditionally and still tells me I am more than enough.  My own ears hearing the not enough from her mouth in regards to herself and others, was my own insecurity rearing it’s ugly head.  (I love you Mother!)  She is enough.  She did enough.  More than enough.

And when I realize that, suddenly I’m freed to be enough in my own life.  I’m enough of a wife.  I’m enough of a mother.  I’m enough in all my 186 lb glory.  I’m enough because God made me enough.

I’m on this public quest to shed some weight.  I don’t know what the end goal is.  It’s been almost 15 years since I’ve been at what I deemed my “perfect” weight, so now at age 50 I don’t know what my happy place weight will be.  For today, if I can shed 20 lbs, lower my blood sugar and have more energy, I’ll be encouraged.

Can I be enough now and yet get better? Of course!  That’s called growth.  But we don’t have to wait to be “better” to live life fully enough.  Let go of the lies that are telling you you are not enough.  You are enough.  Today.  Right now.  You are enough.

Let’s change our perspectives together.  Let’s live our lives fully no matter what the number on the scale says. We can focus on gratitude rather than lack.  Because when we’re thankful for being enough, and we let go of the ‘not enough’ in others and become thankful for who we are and what our bodies are, then we’re free to focus on others.

 Mothers, I don’t have to tell you our lives are full of doing for others.  And the paradox is the more we pour out, the more we are filled.  It’s beautiful.  You’re beautiful.  It’s enough.  You’re enough.  Happy Mother’s Day.

Question:  Do you know you are enough?  What keeps you from celebrating that?  How can you begin celebrating your “enough-ness”?  Please leave your comments below.

The post Celebrating a Mother’s Day ‘Enough’ appeared first on Christy Largent.