Friday, May 31, 2013

What do you Feed Your Body and Soul?


                Good morning Friday, I am glad to see you.  I think I am glad to see the start to a new week because it means an end to last week.  Last week wasn’t all bad, just a few days.  I did not feel well the past few days.  I have been tired, grumpy, my body felt bad, and emotionally I just felt off.  It was like a trifecta of bad feelings that cultivated to make a few rough days for me.

                We all have bad days, but I realized that I needed to know what made me feel so bad.  If it was just an average sickness like the flu, a cough or hormones that would be easy to understand, but with The Trifecta I needed to know the causes.  If I knew the cause then I can try to avoid those bad feelings and actions next time.

                Trying to find the cause of our emotional and physical state of mind is important.  This is part of The Work and The Practice we need in order to grow.  If we never try to understand our Negativity we can never learn how to work through it and spend the Majority of our lives in LOVE.

                This is what my self-reflection about this past week has led me to realize.  I was feeling crappy because I didn’t sleep well.   I can remedy that by focusing back on my regular sleep schedule.  I was feeling crappy because I overate over the weekend.  I can remedy that by paying more attention to my diet when I get busy or celebrate.

                 I was feeling crappy from guilt.  I had indulged and it led to a tummy ache, then I let my guilt toy with my emotions.  What I should’ve done is recognize where I went wrong then forgiven myself.  Holding onto negativity can spread from your mind into your body, and Trust Me that feels doubly crappy.

                What you put in to your body and your soul is often what you get back.  If you feed yourself positivity and healthy affirmations, that’s what you get back.  What are YOU Feeding Your Body and Soul?

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Let Out Your Inner Child

                I just finished reading an article about letting your inner child come out and play.  It basically touted the benefits of remembering the simplicity and joy that children often experience, but doing this as an adult.

                One of the people who was referenced in this article carries around a bottle of bubbles.  You remember these, a little colored plastic bottle with the round ended stick you blow into…then POOF, bubbles come out.

                Blowing bubbles was so simple, so fun, and so amazing as a child.  So why don’t we include some simple, silly, and happy things like this into our lives as adults?  Speaking of bubbles when was the last time you blew a Bubble Gum Bubble so big it popped?  Simple happiness at it’s Best!!!

                I wonder how much stress, unhappiness, apathy, and negativity could be avoided just by including some silliness or child-like innocence and wonder into EVERY Day of Our Lives.

                Maybe you think that this is immature or a waste of time.  If you really feel that way then I think you are probably one of the people most in need of some silliness in your life.  Don’t take yourself too seriously, it’s bad for your health.

                I KNOW that being silly, dancing around when no one is looking and other activities like this can reduce stress and increase your happiness.  Give it a try.  What do you have to lose?  Don’t just trudge through your life…LIVE YOUR LIFE TO THE FULLEST!!!

To The Universe

Love Brandy

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

What INSPIRES You?

                Of all the questions we pose to ourselves everyday, I am pretty sure that MOST People don’t ask themselves this.  People spend most of their days focused on basic questions.  Questions like, “Which route to work has less traffic?”  “What should I make for dinner?” “Do I look good in these jeans?”

                The smaller questions we pose to ourselves daily are a major part of our ability to function in society and they often can form how we process information about ourselves and our environment.

                The problem is that when we focus on basic information and feelings we can often forget to question who we are right now, and who we want to be in the future.
                Ask Yourself, how often do you REALLY CONSIDER what your inspiration is.  The answer should come from deep inside yourself.  A comprehensive answer to what inspires you requires contemplation and the ability to draw your answers from deep within your heart.

                Some things that inspire you are obvious, like friends and family or something beautiful in nature.  These are great, but the more you can identify what inspires you the more you can draw on those emotions in times of need.

                I am inspired by my family and friends.  My mother is filled with SO MUCH LOVE and KINDNESS she inspires me.  My Best Friend is a FIGHTER in the face of a deadly illness, he has survived and thrived since the 90’s.  My father and his fiancĂ© Susan have a vision to Heal the World with Love and Accountability, and I share that vision.

               These people are obvious answers to who inspires me, but this neglects the question, WHAT INSPIRES ME.  The WHAT is so important because you can’t live your life through or for other people.  It is YOU who must walk your path and at sometimes you may be alone.  What will keep you inspired and moving forward when you are alone?

                Some of my personal inspirations are very simple.  I Love Cloud formations, they make my heart smile.  I LOVE when my dogs get SO EXCITED to see me that they run around in circles so fast I can hardly see them.  I LOVE the feeling I get from hiking, it can be painful during the workout, but the beautiful nature I see and the pride upon completion is AMAZING.
             
                 These are just some of the people, places, and things that Inspire Me.  What things Inspire You?  Write a list, keep it handy if necessary then when life starts to get you down take out “Your Inspirations” and draw them into your heart.

To The Universe

Love Brandy

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Don't Fear Change...Change Fear!!!

                I am afraid of more things than I would like to admit.  The fears that I am talking about today aren’t the run of the mill fears like “heights” or “the dark.”  The fears I am referring to are the fears we harbor about our lives and our future.

                Our natural instincts have evolved from fear.  Fear is how we have kept our species alive over the millennia, but natural fears for our personal safety are different then the fears we harbor that hold us back from living a GREAT LIFE.

            When we let the natural instinct of fear override our lives and thoughts, we never truly live.  If we turn tail and run away every time we are fearful, that will become our norm.  Every new experience would be wrought with anxiety for fear of how it will turn out.  This Fear would in turn rule our lives and prevent happiness and light from entering our souls.

            The trick is to find out which fears are necessary and which fears need to be examined and thrown away.  Try thinking of our fears as instinct, not reaction.  We all know that humans have instincts that are good and bad.  But society has taught us how to control and use our instincts to better ourselves and those around us.

            For instance, our instinct when are tired is to rest.  Though to fit into our society we don’t just walk into any house and go to sleep.  So why can we control our “restful” instincts but believe we can’t control our fear.  We Can Control and Use our Fears to Grow.

            It’s a slow process but to grow you must acknowledge your fears and shed the belief that everything bad you fear will happen to you.  If you can’t shed your fear and negative belief, how will you ever experience GREAT NEW THINGS.

           Try to take your fears captive and turn them into something positive, something beautiful, or just dismiss them altogether.  The less fear you have in your heart, the more room you have for happiness and love to grow in your heart.

To The Universe
LOVE BRANDY

Monday, May 27, 2013

How is 2013 shaping up for YOU???

                Good Morning All.  The question I posed in today blog title isn’t just for me, if you’re reading this I am talking to you too.  We are nearing the halfway point of 2013 and I have been contemplating my New Years Resolutions, or as I refer to them…my New Years Intentions.

                In January I wrote about setting intentions for 2013 and about using LOVE not FEAR to create and cultivate those goals and intentions.  Now I want to talk about turning our intentions into our reality.  It’s great to think about what you want to cultivate in your life this year, but if you never go past thinking, desiring, or planning and into ACTION what’s the point.

                A few months into the New Year is when the work really begins to go from intention into HABIT.  All your resolutions, goals, and intentions are waiting for you. Are you taking action?  I AM.

                I am still eating healthier, I am still exercising, I am still writing, I am still focused.  Even better I am MORE EXCITED and MORE COMMITTED to my goals and the “Action” steps needed to get there than I was on New Years Day!!!

                For those of you that haven’t moved past your intentions into ACTION, don’t fret.  It is never too late to start, every day is a new opportunity to make your future brighter.  Remember that apathy will only keep you living in FEAR.

                Don’t concern yourself as much with the “end point” of your journey, concern yourself with each step it will take to get there.  Step out into your future.  Walk your path with LOVE in your heart, and marvel at the GREATNESS that you will be presented with.

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Friday, May 24, 2013

Expect Action...Not Perfection!!!

Expect Action…Not Perfection!!!  For publication 5-24- 2013      REPRINT OF It’s one thing to Expect Excellence, It’s Another to Require Perfection. No One is Perfect!!! From 1-14-2013

                Good Morning Universe, I need your help.  I need to let go of some negativity.  I have been a preoccupied by aspects of my “old self” more over the past few weeks, namely anxiety.  I seem to spend more time worrying about things like money, food, other people’s behavior, and just plain Fearful thoughts.  I have been trying to pinpoint everything thing that could be causing my shift in perspective.  What I have come to realize is that I am trying to blame my circumstances, instead of trying to work on solutions and positivity.

                It is such a fine line between expecting perfection and being encouraged to stay on track.  When you inflict guilt on yourself or others because you are unhappy or disappointed, that is not LOVE.  How do you encourage accountability in yourself and in others, while remembering that we are ALL HUMAN.  We ALL make mistakes, We All have memory lapses, and We All experience Fear.

                It is my responsibility to work harder to “stay on top” of things, but it is also my responsibility to “let go” of the small stuff.  My old self wants to dwell in negativity and anger, but I KNOW that won’t help me or anyone else.  Sometimes things just happen, sometimes people just forget.  Sometimes we have to remember that when you criticize yourself or others it isn’t always coming from a desire to encourage growth, we are just upset.

                It is now my job to “let go” of this negativity and move on, it may be easy or it may be difficult, but letting go of my negativity must be done.  It is also my responsibility to work harder to stay on top of things better.  I will congratulate my successes, then learn from and discard my failures.

                Remember to temper your thoughts and words with Understanding and Love.  Remember that each of us makes mistakes, and we don’t need to dwell on Every Mistake made by ourselves or others.  Don’t be too critical.

To The Universe

Love Brandy

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Blow Me Down...I'll Get Right Back Up!!!

                Catchy title don’t you think?  Usually I write first, then come up with a title but I am trying something new today.  I try to write about things that are going on in my life on each day.  In the past few days my mood has been blowing hot and cold, just like the VERY WINDY day outside
                I was cheerful then grumpy, anxious then calm, angry then happy just to name a few of the emotions I experienced all in the same day.  The emotions I experienced made me feel off balance and ready to hide away.  Thankfully my “old self” isn’t in control anymore.  She likes to come back and visit, but I have the tools to “put her in her place.”

                I had to put my “old self” in check because if I didn’t I would have allowed myself to snuggle up, turn on the TV and delay the start to my morning.  That wouldn’t be good because then I would have to get motivated to start working all over again.  Better to just get up and start the day.

                Now I have one “good decision” under my belt and that is a decision I made from a place within myself that is filled with “LOVE.”  As my day progresses if negativity or tough choices come my way I can remember my first “good decision” and use that as fuel to stay on track.

                Every day is different.  Some days I have to “work” harder to stay on track and focus more on making positive decisions and operating from “love” not “fear.”  My job is to keep moving and keep working.  I must acknowledge the “good” things, and “Learn From” then “Let Go Of” the negative things.  The more I practice this, the better I get at it.

                What “good decisions” can you make this morning that you can carry with you throughout your day?

To The Universe

Love Brandy

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Do You Live in Happiness!!!


                Good Morning Universe!!!  I LIVE IN HAPPINESS.  Yes, I said it and I mean it.  Today I spend my days in Happiness and I am Grateful.  I don’t want people to misunderstand what I mean by Living in Happiness.  I am not saying I am Happy 24/7.  What I AM SAYING is that I don’t let sadness rule my life.

                I acknowledge that Sadness may come and visit me at times in my life, but I am not spending the majority of my life IN SADNESS anymore.  These days I know that when I am Sad it is only temporary.  I don’t have to allow my negative emotions and experiences to dictate My Life.

                I used to contemplate whether or not I should write about Sadness.  I want my writings to be positive and uplifting when others read them, but I don’t want to be dishonest or let people believe everything is perfect.  My words wouldn’t help anyone if they aren’t honest or relatable.

                I remember last year when I went home to visit my mother for Halloween and she was a little shocked when I confided in her that I was Sad.  At the time I hadn’t found my place in Vegas, I was lonely and confused, but she didn’t know that because all my Blogs up until then were ALWAYS Positive.  I was afraid to admit that I felt negativity at times, but in that fear I was doing myself a disservice.  I was doing others a disservice, because how could I inspire others if was personally unrelatable.

                Today I Live in Happiness for the majority of my days, but sometimes I must work harder to find the Happy and surround myself with it.  It is my job to move forward and find ways to bring more Happiness and more Love into my Life.  I have to work to leave the Negative in the past so I don’t end up living there.  I have to forgive myself when I am sad or negative, otherwise I may use that negativity as an excuse to live in Sadness.

I am building a “toolbox” filled with ways to Live in Happiness.  Some of my most powerful tools are Gratitude, Open Expression, Compassion, Trust, and a growing Support System.  What can you do to fill your “toolbox” with Happy?

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Off Track??? Sometimes you have to Just Jump In!!!


                I am annoyed today.  I am Intimidated today.  I am a little lost today.  Whew, now that I got that negativity out of the way I can FOCUS, right?  If it were only that easy to say your feelings out loud and then…Poof, they would disappear.  Oh well it was worth a try.

                Honestly my negativity hasn’t completely gone away, but I ACTUALLY do feel better having expressed my feelings out loud.  I know that those feelings are still inside me, but now that I have Acknowledged them I don’t have to dwell in them.

                If I am to move past my negative thoughts and emotions the first step is to acknowledge them, otherwise how can I Really Know what to work on.  Without acknowledgement the only other option is to bury my negativity, and BURYING NEGATIVITY is only a temporary fix.  When you Bury your feelings they ALWAYS come back to Bite You in the BUTT, and they come back with a vengeance.

                Now that I have decided to JUST JUMP IN, I know that I am on the right track.  I wrote the first part of this blog a few days ago and two things have happened to reinforce my decision to JUMP IN.

                 First off this morning I was reading a Blog written by Jenna Hall where she said, “A way cannot be made if you do not move. If you wait until you are ready, you will never begin.”  BAM!!!!  That hit me like a ton of bricks.  Procrastination can be the killer of our dreams.  Fear of not being perfect can COMPLETELY Stop us from moving forward, from creating, from living our dreams.

                I used to live in FEAR and ANXIETY about the “what if’s” in my life and I was stuck and unhappy.  A path cannot be made if you do not move. If you keep waiting until you are Absolutely Sure Everything is Perfect, you may never begin.  Now I constantly strive to MOVE, maybe I won’t always be moving forward, maybe i’ll stumble and fall, BUT I WILL ALWAYS BE MOVING.

                The second reason I KNOW I am on the right track is that the writer’s block that kept me COMPLETELY STAGNANT over the weekend, has lifted.   I JUMPED IN to the project I am dedicated to and I have been rewarded.

                What projects, tasks, desires, and dreams have you been putting off for FEAR of Jumping IN?  If you don’t feel comfortable JUMPING IN, are you willing to at least step forward into your future?

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Monday, May 20, 2013

Do You Have The Courage To Be UNCOOL?

               Good Morning Universe, let’s talk about COOL!!!  Let’s talk about how many times in our lives we have an unhealthy desire to “fit in.”  I am not saying that when we adapt to our surroundings and the people in it that it is always unhealthy.  What I am saying is that when we hide who we really are or behave in ways that make us uncomfortable, THAT ISN’T GOOD!!!

                When I was younger I spent so much time trying to fit in that I didn’t even know who I was.  I did not Acknowledge the things that made me happy.  I did not Believe that other people would like me for who I was on the inside.  I did not live in LOVE and Happiness, I existed in Fear.

                My thoughts and actions were heavily influence by other people and my own lack of Self Love.  My Actions weren’t considered and executed in order to make me happy, proud, and fulfilled.  My Actions were always filtered through the, “what will other people think” lens.  I missed out on so much Happiness and Fulfillment because my happiness was tied to directly to other people’s acceptance.

                When I made jokes and laughed it was really a mask for the sadness I was living in.  I always wanted to be the joking and cheerful person, because I thought this was who I had to be in order for people to like me.  I didn’t speak up for myself and I always agreed with everyone else.

                Then one day my life took a turn for the worst, and I started cutting myself and eventually started abusing drugs.  As much as I wish I could erase that part of my life I did learn a few things.  I learned that I was MUCH STRONGER than I ever imagined because I came out of those years of addiction and learned to prosper.

                Belief became my most powerful tool for change.  I started to believe in myself.  On some days when things didn’t go my way I had to Practice Belief, but I kept trying.  Once I started to Truly Believe I could accept myself and be happy it was time to make choices that were in alignment with how I wanted my life to look.  Most importantly, I took ACTION!!!  I stopped sitting back in Fear and started Doing Things that would bring more Love and Light into my soul. 

                One of the best things I learned about myself is that as of today I AM that HAPPY and JOKING person that I pretended to be when I was younger.  The difference now is that I use humor to make me smile and not so other people will like and accept me.  If people want to laugh and smile with me that is AWESOME, but if not I don’t take it so personally.

                I love my awkwardness, my sense of humor, my dorky side, and a lot of things that some people may consider “Uncool.”  Today I revel in the person I have developed into, and even though other people’s opinions can impact me sometimes I don’t dwell on that.  I Love Myself.  Do you have Love for yourself?  If not, what can you do today to bring more Love into your soul?

To The Universe

Love Brandy

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Perseverance is PROGRESS!!!


                Good Morning Universe, today I want to talk about progress.  Many times in our lives we feel that we are “stunted” or “stuck” in the same place and this can get us down.  In our busy world many people feel that Success and Progress should always be a measurable quantity.

                I don’t think that I agree that Success and Progress is always measurable.  I understand the need for measurable goals and encourage these things, but we should not be limited by our measurable goals.  When we HAVE TO have reach a measurable goal in order to be happy it sets us up for true failure.

                Goals, Aspirations, and Measurable Progress are wonderful tools for growth and fulfillment and I am not advocating letting these things go.  Instead I am advocating a balance between progress and acceptance.  Don’t believe that if you are not progressing towards your goals at every moment that you have somehow failed, because that is the first step towards regression, towards giving up.

                For the past few weeks I have been practicing perseverance, I have been practicing “not giving up.”  I have been practicing having faith in myself and my goals.  I have struggled because I have not lost any weight in a few weeks, even though I am eating right and exercising daily.  I am struggling because my financial situation is “so tight” it feels I can’t breathe because of anxiety.

                It is my struggles that I must persevere through in order to appreciate just about anything.  In the past, in fact most of my life, when I was faced with struggles I easily gave up.  I would lose my positivity and my desire to change because I thought giving up was easier.  I was wrong, giving up only felt easy in the moment.  In the long run giving up never made me happy and just kept me living in fear and mediocrity.

                During the times in your life when you feel you are stuck use it as a chance to learn, practice, and utilize the Amazing Quality of Perseverance.  Don’t ever think that your goals are unattainable.  Start incorporating and practicing Perseverance in the difficult times when you feel are not growing and progressing.

                When we learn to persevere we are demonstrating patience, faith, and learning to love ourselves and our lives no matter what.  These qualities are never a waste of time.  So let’s all practice persevering through the “no so great” stuff and remembering that it will make us that much more appreciative of our successes in the end.

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

May Everyday Be Enough!!!


“I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.
 I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.
 I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.
 I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.
 I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
 I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
 I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye."  -Author Unknown

                I read this beautiful poem on today, and was truly touched.  These words got me thinking about how we wish the best for people around us all the time.  What is “The Best?”  What if our definition of “The Best” was simply shaped by our lives, good and bad.

                If you never experience bad times or negative emotions how can you expect to TRULY APPRECIATE the good things in life.  Life is contrast.  You can’t have a beautiful sunny day without the chilly darkened night.

                It is the things that we have overcome that make Success So SWEET!!!  If we were given everything on a silver platter, what kind of value would we give it?  I am pretty sure the value would be relatively low.

                I am not saying that I hope anyone has to experience Lack, Loss, Pain, or Sadness.  What I am saying is that it is helpful to remember that it is the “Not So Good Stuff” which makes us truly appreciate and value our lives.

                I try, and sometimes fail, to remember the blessings in my life when I am faced with the “Not So Good Stuff” or the downright “Really BAD Things.”  The one thing I know is that life never stays the same, we are always changing, and the Sun rises every morning to banish the darkness.  There is comfort in that certainty.

                I am a happy person today.  In the past I have been a miserable, selfish, and desperate person but I am truly blessed because I am still here.  Everyday isn’t perfect but every day “Is Enough.”
  
To The Universe
Love Brandy

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Practice not letting Other People's Words Bring You Down!!!


                Good Morning Universe.  Today I want to talk about how often we let other people’s words and actions take away our comfort, joy, security, and other similar emotions.  Just a few days ago I let someone else’s interpretation of my actions Really Effect ME!!!

                It was just this past Sunday, Mother’s Day to be more specific.  I was excited to spend the morning making a wonderful Brunch for Susan, and didn’t even let the fact that I was unable to celebrate with my own Mother in Sacramento get me down.

                I woke up very early and went to the gym so that I could be all ready to get cooking by 11am.  I spent the late morning cooking pancakes and an egg bake.  I made the food, set the table, served everyone, and even did most of the dishes.  (Nick and Justine pitched in on the clean up…Thanks Guys)

                Anyways, the brunch itself went wonderful.  After all the dishes were loaded up I ran the dishwasher and I absentmindedly put dish soap in the dishwasher instead of a dishwasher tab, OOPS!!!  The dishwasher got foamy and I had to wet vac the bubbles out, it sucked but I didn’t consider it a big deal.  Sometimes things just happen.

                The problem I experienced came later in the afternoon when my Father called me in order to be sure I was OK.  I thought this was crazy because I had a great day.  He then shared that he had been thinking for hours about my mistake with the dishwasher.  He asked if I was doing ok, if I was preoccupied, or if I was drunk.
 
                I told him the truth.  I wasn’t preoccupied, I wasn’t sad or angry, I wasn’t drunk, and that I simply made an absent minded mistake.  We are all humans and we make mistakes.  When I went back to my apartment I was upset.  I couldn’t understand why he made such a big deal about the dishwasher or why he felt he HAD to share it with me.

                In fact I was still irritated when I was getting ready for bed.  It was the next morning that I realized that I was letting his issue and his concern become mine.  I realized that he needed to share those feelings for whatever reason.  I don’t have to agree with him or feel the need to justify myself.  I also don’t have to internalize it, evaluate it, or let it make me question myself.  I was responsible for how I let someone else’s words affect me.
 
                Now my task is to keep this lesson with me in the future.  I need to remember that I am responsible for myself, my thoughts, and my actions.  It will take practice to keep my boundaries in place so that I can take other peoples words and actions to a place within myself that I can grow from.  What boundaries can you enact today that will help you live in Positivity and Love?

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Friday, May 10, 2013

Today You Can Do Anything!!!


                Good Morning Universe!!!  Today I want to add a few things to my post from yesterday.  Yesterday’s Blog titled “I don’t need to be Medicated,” was about how I have moved past needing medications to sleep, and deal with some psychiatric conditions I had been diagnosed with.

                First thing I want to point out is that I just because I don’t use medications on a regular basis anymore it doesn’t mean I am telling other people that treatment isn’t necessary.  Every person and diagnosis is different, it is important for each individual to decide how they will be treated.

                I am only referring to my own person experience, my own personal desire to try to get better.  For me the medication and treatment I was receiving wasn’t working, therefore I decided to try something different.
                I received some input from those closest to me asking how I was able to improve my sleep, my anxiety, and my depression.  To be honest, I can’t point out one particular tool or technique that worked.  I believe it is a combination of many things.

                My first step was that I Acknowledged my problems.  I Acknowledged a true desire to change.  I stopped hiding behind excuses.  I surrounded myself with people who encouraged me and I started to believe that I was ready to try.  Before last year I didn’t want to try anything out of my normal routine because I was afraid to fail.

                The second most important tool I used was Faith.  I had faith that if I kept trying and stopped just accepting my condition as unchangeable, I could have the results I wanted.  Luckily I had people around me that also were living a life based in Positivity and Accountability.

                In the beginning each night when I couldn’t sleep I would repeat the same things to myself, “stop looking at the clock,” “if you can’t fall asleep it’s not the end of the world,” “Surrender.”  It took a long time before the anxiety that was associated with my Fear of Insomnia began to dissipate.

                I had to practice “letting go.”  I had to practice “belief.”  I CHOOSE to believe that change was possible, I CHOOSE to Love myself enough to NOT GIVE UP.  I am not perfect and can honestly say I occasionally still experience insomnia, anxiety, and other negative emotions.  The difference today is that I Work Hard to remember that Today Is A New Day.  I don’t tell myself that “I can’t sleep tonight,” simply because the night before was rough.

                What can you Acknowledge TODAY that you would like to change?  What can you Surrender TODAY that will leave your future open for greatness?  What ACTION can you take TODAY that will give you the future you crave?

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Thursday, May 9, 2013

I don't need to be Medicated!!!


               Good Morning Universe, I am grateful because I am sleeping well.  For those of you who don’t understand my greeting today, let me explain.  I have been suffering with insomnia for almost 10 years.  It started in my late 20’s and has ruled my nightly patterns since.

               I was also suffering with severe anxiety, depression, and cutting episodes for which I was receiving medical treatment.  My psychiatric diagnoses were intertwined and up until a few years ago I spent many years under the care of a psychiatrist.  My doctor would prescribe different medications which would include pills to help me sleep.

                Over a year ago my father shared with me that he had started a group called “The Elevate Institute” in which he hoped to share his message about using “The Seven Keys” to Elevate people’s lives.  More information about the Seven Keys and The Elevate Institute can be found at http://theelevateinstitute.com/the-seven-keys.html 

               I was hesitant and didn’t want to consider change or anything that required a true emotional investment.  I didn’t want to face my past, think about my future, or work on myself.  Thankfully my father was insistent and continued to encourage change.  He also invited me to move to Las Vegas to work with him and The Elevate Institute.  I took that leap and I am developing a life I never imagined.

               One of the first things we spoke about was trying to stop relying on medications to help me sleep and cope.  Honestly I didn’t sleep very well with the medications anyways.  I was scared, nervous, and doubtful, but I tried.

                Today I sleep better than I have in years, and I don’t need sleeping pills.  In fact I don’t take any prescribed medications anymore!!!  I still don’t “sleep like a rock” but I am truly grateful for the improvement.  The best part is that I KNOW it will only get better.  I Believe that my sleep will continue to improve, therefore it will. 

                What a beautiful morning it is.  What a beautiful life it is.  I am FILLED with GRATITUDE.  Can you find something to be grateful for?   Do you truly believe that change is good?  Can you take a step towards the future of your dreams?

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Boundaries…They are So Important!!!


                Good Morning Universe.  Today I have been considering how our lives can be pulled in different directions by the people around us.  I am not talking about our casual acquaintances, I am talking about the people in our lives that are close to us.

                People that are close to us can mean many different things.  They can include family, close, friends, co-workers and other people that we are not always able to distance ourselves from.   Sometimes we can choose who we surround ourselves with.  Other times we are committed to having people in our lives.

                The problem is that the people that “Have” to be in our lives can often be the most demanding, negative, and draining.  The simple answer to the question of how to handle being pulled in different directions or handling negativity is BOUNDARIES.

                Boundaries, in theory, are simple to devise and seemingly simple to enforce.  Though I know that when it comes to people that are closest to us, boundaries are actually very difficult to construct and keep.
 
                When considering how to set up good boundaries and keep them functioning it is important to remember that you must be placing these boundaries for yourself and others OUT OF LOVE.  Don’t place boundaries and expectations on other people or yourself to force some type of compliance or change.

                When you set boundaries based solely on your own needs or desires that isn’t healthy, That’s EGO.  When you set boundaries based on LOVE and a desire to bring more happiness and contentment into your life then you can see positive results.

                The most important thing to remember about boundaries is that they Start With You.  The boundaries that are most important are your emotional boundaries.  Ask yourself, what are the things that are necessary for you in order to be happy.  Ask yourself what limits you will put on people around you who are negative, needy, mean, or even just apathetic.

                Once you know what actions and emotions you need from yourself and others in your life you can begin to set boundaries that will enhance your life and in turn others.  Don’t forget that a key component to boundaries is ENFORCEMENT.  Don’t set boundaries and then let yourself or other people constantly cross them, this is just a waste of time.  You Can Do It!!!

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Teach Your Life How To Treat You!!!


                Good Morning Universe?  How do we help shape our dream lives?  One very important way to do this is to put boundaries on what kind of treatment is acceptable in our lives.  Treatment we expect from our friends, family, and ourselves.  If life isn’t going the way we want we can say, “ENOUGH” and make changes in how we live our lives and who we surround ourselves with.

                If we don’t put expectations, boundaries, and action into our everyday lives we are never going to have the life we Really Want To Live.  When we accept our life as boring, sad, unhappy, unfulfilling etc. then we are not “teaching” life how we want to be treated.

                Don’t just lay back and let your life or the people in it walk all over you.  Teach your life what you expect.  Teach the people around you the type of Interaction, Support, and Love you expect in a healthy relationship.  But remember to be a LOVING and RESPECTFUL Teacher. 

                Set boundaries in your life and STICK BY THEM.  It does no good to set boundaries and expectations if you don’t stick to them.  You do have a shared responsibility in how other people treat you.  You are responsible when you allow people and events drag you down, if you don’t make an effort to implement changes.

                Complaints and Self Indulgence won’t create positive changes in your life.  Support, Positivity, Love, Action, and Honesty are just a few things that will bring GREATNESS into your life if you expect them from others and YOURSELF!!!

To The Universe
Love Brandy

Monday, May 6, 2013

Make Time for Family


                Good Morning Universe, it’s been a nice weekend.  I have learned a lot about myself and the things that bring me joy and comfort.  What brings me Joy and Comfort you may ask, it’s my family. 

                Most of my family (my mother, brother, best friend, etc.) are still in Sacramento and I miss them more than words can express.  Though, I have my Father, Susan, and other friends that I have been blessed to get to know since I have moved to Vegas. 

                Up until a little over a month ago I spent a significant amount of time with my Father and Susan.   That’s to be expected since I live right next door to them and also work with them.  Recently it seems that I have spent less time with them due to injury, other work commitments, and various other circumstances.

                At first it wasn’t a big deal to spend time alone or with my roommate, it was new and a little freeing.  The problem is that I really have missed family time.  My close family here in Vegas keeps me motivated, positive, accountable, and most importantly they make me feel LOVED.

                Last week I shared some struggles I have been having with a desire to use food and a desire to smoke.  I was able to share these struggles with my family/support system, and it felt good.  Today I realize that I need more than sharing, I need quality time with a positive and loving support system to keep me on track.

                Who makes up your support system?  Who holds you accountable to your dreams and goals?  Who are your true friends and family?  If you have never considered these questions it might be a good idea to consider them now.  Surround yourself with as much Love, Positivity, and Support that you can and see what happens next.
To The Universe

Love Brandy

Friday, May 3, 2013

I Really Want Cookies!!!


                Good Morning Universe I bet I got your attention with my title today.  Honestly who doesn’t want a cookie (or 10) now and then.  Before now I would have DEFINITELY just ate all the cookies.  Self-Control hasn’t always been one of my strong points, but that is changing these days.

                I have spoken before about my addiction to negative behaviors like smoking, drugs, and even self-harm.  Another addiction I have struggled with, and still struggle with is an addiction to food.  I partook in these negative behaviors to escape.  I was usually bored or depressed and made excuses as to why these negative behaviors were OK.

                It is very difficult to change behaviors that have been part of your life and your personality for years, but it’s DEFINITELY POSSIBLE.  The best part about changing your negative behaviors and habits is the pride you get upon success.  The hardest part is getting back on track if you fail.  Failure is common when making significant changes, but I BELIEVE the only TRUE FAILURE is never trying again.  The things people value most are things we have WORKED FOR.

                That being said, I REALLY WANT COOKIES.  I am aware that the OLD SELF wouldn’t be able to just have one serving of cookies, I would be in danger of eating half the box.  My NEW SELF has been doing really good this week.  I bought a small box of cookies 5 days ago, and still have more than half the package left today (and it’s actually a really small package) YEAH!!!  I am starting to gain some self-control, and with that comes PRIDE.

                Last year I still had the goal to be healthier, I just got lazy.  This year has not been about maintaining my weight loss, but getting it moving again, and I am happy to report THIS YEAR is going GREAT.  Two years ago I weighed 316lbs, as of today I have gotten down to 213lbs.
 
                Now my job in the coming months is to remember this POSITIVE feeling in order to keep me motivated.  It is my job to keep working even when I hit the DREADED PLATEAU, which I acknowledge will come.  I must take my thoughts captive, thoughts like “this is too hard” or “well I worked so hard and don’t’ see changes.”  I must remember how good it feels to succeed, even when my inner quitter is SCREAMING at me.

                One step I have taken is to tell others my goals, that way I will be accountable.  Another way is to share my struggles and successes with a support system.  Now I have shared my goals with ALL of YOU and it SCARES ME but it also inspires me.  Let’s all work to overcome our FEARS this year and look for the POSITIVE.

To The Universe
LOVE BRANDY

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Socially Acceptable Bad Habits Can Sometimes Be Harder to Break


                Good Morning Universe.  Today is about those “old habits” that are often times the hardest to break.  They are the kind of habits that are acceptable by society.  Habits like smoking, over eating, drinking, and other things that are not viewed as good but can often be overlooked.

                I have Experienced and Overcome A LOT of Negative behaviors.  I have indulged in my share of Bad Behavior.  I have been a drug addict, a cutter, a cigarette smoker, an overeater, and lazy in my lifetime…Just to name a few.

                I always took pride in my ability to “come back” from the behaviors that society thinks are extremely detrimental and shameful.  Like drug addiction and self-harm.  In fact of all the things I struggle with these days drugs and cutting aren’t even on my radar.

                I don’t wake up in the morning and struggle with a desire for drugs or self-harm.  I don’t have a bad day, or anxiety and think about drugs.  I consider myself lucky and strong because I have moved past that.
 
                Don’t get me wrong, I Still Struggle.  I still want to give into my bad habits, it’s just that today the bad habits I struggle with are considered “socially acceptable.”  The habits and desires I have to continue to work on are struggles with food, and lately with a desire to Smoke Cigarettes.

                For a long time I believed that since food and cigarettes were so commonly used by others there was no shame.  I was just so proud of myself for being drug free and emotionally stable that I would allow myself to backslide.

                I have acknowledged the things I struggle with today and have recently shared the struggle with cigarettes with my support system.  It felt good, but I was so scared.  It meant I would have to try and stop making excuses, it meant I would have to forgive myself.

                Now that I am not so scared I can move forward.  I may not be perfect, but hiding my desires and imperfections will not allow me to improve or Live in Happiness and Love.
 
                What Negative Behaviors do you have?  What things can you share with your support system so you can keep growing?  What Fears are holding you back?  No One is Perfect, but we can always strive to be the person we want to be.  Love Yourself, Trust in Others, and Keep Working!!!

To The Universe
Love Brandy