I recently heard a young mom talking about how when her toddler-aged daughter tells her, "Mom, I'm scared!" She replies, "That's okay, do it scared!"
Fear is paralyzing, and even when we acknowledge it, it can STILL be paralyzing. But I love this response because it completely eliminates all excuses and teaches that yes, it's OKAY to be afraid, but it's NOT okay to let that fear stop you from doing it anyway.
If you think the bravest and most courageous people throughout history (George Washington, Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, etc.) were never afraid, I think you are mistaken, as I'm willing to bet that they were JUST as afraid as anyone else would have been in their situations. The difference is that they chose to "do it scared."
I give so much credit to this young mom and love how she was teaching her daughter this from such a young age. I'm not a parent, but this is definitely one of those words of wisdom cards that I want to keep tucked away for the future.
So friends, from now on, I encourage you that whenever you're in a situation and you think to yourself "I'm scared," to give yourself the best three word pep-talk ever and say "do it scared."
Then do it.
It's worth it. :)
Showing posts with label leadership. Show all posts
Showing posts with label leadership. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Sunday, August 14, 2016
On Goals and the Journey to Silver!
So let me be the first to say that I am writing this WAY later than I anticipated. When I went Silver in 6 with Young Living at the end of June, I expected myself to have written about it much sooner, but here we are in mid-August already!
Anyway, better late than never, right? :) Hitting Silver (in 6) was a HUGE milestone for my team. It was something that could NOT have been accomplished without the help and support of my amazing team. I am so thankful for them and have loved that the Lord has brought us all together on this journey. While this is a milestone, I know it is ONE milestone, and is not the END milestone. In other words, this is just the beginning of many great things (working on toward GOLD people!).
Side note: If any of you are wondering about the Premier Aroma Collection (it retails at almost $3k, and is the company's gift to me for reaching silver in 6, can I just say I love Young Living?) that I earned. Below is a pic of me with the kit when it arrived. It was so fun opening up and I literally could smell the oils right when I opened the box!
If you would like to see the full version of me telling my story of how this began and some of my tips for building to silver, you can watch a video of me talking about it here where I was sharing for our team's weekly conference call.
However, I wanted to share some tid-bit's here too. First of all, let me just say that when I first began this journey, silver seemed SO far away. I say that to encourage you, in that everyone starts at the same level, and has the same initial thought when they look at the compensation plan. Goodness, I remember thinking that Executive seemed like such a long way away. Each of the ranks looks SO intimidating (at least they did for me) at first, but I am here to tell you that with consistent work and effort, you CAN reach those ranks and before you know it, you will be achieving numbers in your business that will BLOW your mind. Just for fun, here are some pictures of me at my first Young Living convention, 2 years ago (2014). I was a Star at the time:
One of the biggest things that has impacted me on this journey is the power of writing your goals and keeping them in front of you...
In December 2015, when I reached the rank of Executive, I had no idea if I was going to even be able to maintain it for the next month (which would have automatically dropped me out of qualification for Silver in 6). However, I knew my goal and what I wanted, and I kept pressing toward it. And I prayed, a lot. Don't ever underestimate the hand of God in your businesses. One of the biggest things that I knew above all else, was that this was in HIS hands and it was HIS businesses. Giving your business to the Lord is the BEST decision you can make for your success.
You see, even though I didn't know all the details of HOW I was going to make Silver in 6 happen at the time, I believed it would happen and I continued to do whatever it took to work towards my goal- even if it meant driving 1hr and 20min in rush hour to my group in Cinci for almost every weekend in March, getting up at 5am on my school break to help with a mom-to-mom sale, or stepping out of my comfort zone by calling people I didn't know. When you have a set goal, you will do CRAZY things to reach it, as long as you don't leave room for excuses.
You HAVE to KEEP your goal in front of you. Honestly, it was scary writing my goal of silver by June when I wrote it for the first time, as it seemed so far away. In fact, I wrote that before I had even gone Executive (so it was REALLY scary). Below is a picture of my where I write my goals. You'll notice I had a different goal written initially for Silver, and I crossed that out and re-wrote my goal. Sometimes that happens, and that's OK!
Also, SHARE your goals with your upline mentor and downline leaders...this is a TEAM effort...help THEM succeed first and then you will too. Just never ever give up and I cannot emphasize this enough: keep your goals and dreams in front of you at ALL times. I had Si6 on my dream board, as well as a pin that said "silver by convention" that I carried with me to ALL my classes I did, as it was my reminder to me and my team of the bigger goal. Lastly, I put me as a silver as my screen background (It's now been changed to me as a Gold) on my phone. This is HUGE. Everyday I would see myself as a silver before I was even there. Let me ask you, do YOU see yourself where you want to be or where you are currently? It makes a difference in your mind, guys! I have many people ask me, "What does your phone background mean?" Which also gives me an opportunity for me to share with them what I'm doing!
Anyway, I want to encourage you all with this...you CAN do this if you put your complete mind and focus on it. Be dedicated to your business. If you treat it like a real business (and not a hobby), it will reap the benefits of a real business.
This is JUST the beginning...the future is bright! With all the chaos in the world today, I am proud to be a part of something that gives people HOPE! Be encouraged today!
If you accidentally stumbled upon this page and want to find out more about Young Living and joining my team, just go ahead and click here.
Love you all! :)
Anyway, better late than never, right? :) Hitting Silver (in 6) was a HUGE milestone for my team. It was something that could NOT have been accomplished without the help and support of my amazing team. I am so thankful for them and have loved that the Lord has brought us all together on this journey. While this is a milestone, I know it is ONE milestone, and is not the END milestone. In other words, this is just the beginning of many great things (working on toward GOLD people!).
Side note: If any of you are wondering about the Premier Aroma Collection (it retails at almost $3k, and is the company's gift to me for reaching silver in 6, can I just say I love Young Living?) that I earned. Below is a pic of me with the kit when it arrived. It was so fun opening up and I literally could smell the oils right when I opened the box!
If you would like to see the full version of me telling my story of how this began and some of my tips for building to silver, you can watch a video of me talking about it here where I was sharing for our team's weekly conference call.
However, I wanted to share some tid-bit's here too. First of all, let me just say that when I first began this journey, silver seemed SO far away. I say that to encourage you, in that everyone starts at the same level, and has the same initial thought when they look at the compensation plan. Goodness, I remember thinking that Executive seemed like such a long way away. Each of the ranks looks SO intimidating (at least they did for me) at first, but I am here to tell you that with consistent work and effort, you CAN reach those ranks and before you know it, you will be achieving numbers in your business that will BLOW your mind. Just for fun, here are some pictures of me at my first Young Living convention, 2 years ago (2014). I was a Star at the time:
One of the biggest things that has impacted me on this journey is the power of writing your goals and keeping them in front of you...
In December 2015, when I reached the rank of Executive, I had no idea if I was going to even be able to maintain it for the next month (which would have automatically dropped me out of qualification for Silver in 6). However, I knew my goal and what I wanted, and I kept pressing toward it. And I prayed, a lot. Don't ever underestimate the hand of God in your businesses. One of the biggest things that I knew above all else, was that this was in HIS hands and it was HIS businesses. Giving your business to the Lord is the BEST decision you can make for your success.
You see, even though I didn't know all the details of HOW I was going to make Silver in 6 happen at the time, I believed it would happen and I continued to do whatever it took to work towards my goal- even if it meant driving 1hr and 20min in rush hour to my group in Cinci for almost every weekend in March, getting up at 5am on my school break to help with a mom-to-mom sale, or stepping out of my comfort zone by calling people I didn't know. When you have a set goal, you will do CRAZY things to reach it, as long as you don't leave room for excuses.
You HAVE to KEEP your goal in front of you. Honestly, it was scary writing my goal of silver by June when I wrote it for the first time, as it seemed so far away. In fact, I wrote that before I had even gone Executive (so it was REALLY scary). Below is a picture of my where I write my goals. You'll notice I had a different goal written initially for Silver, and I crossed that out and re-wrote my goal. Sometimes that happens, and that's OK!
Also, SHARE your goals with your upline mentor and downline leaders...this is a TEAM effort...help THEM succeed first and then you will too. Just never ever give up and I cannot emphasize this enough: keep your goals and dreams in front of you at ALL times. I had Si6 on my dream board, as well as a pin that said "silver by convention" that I carried with me to ALL my classes I did, as it was my reminder to me and my team of the bigger goal. Lastly, I put me as a silver as my screen background (It's now been changed to me as a Gold) on my phone. This is HUGE. Everyday I would see myself as a silver before I was even there. Let me ask you, do YOU see yourself where you want to be or where you are currently? It makes a difference in your mind, guys! I have many people ask me, "What does your phone background mean?" Which also gives me an opportunity for me to share with them what I'm doing!
Anyway, I want to encourage you all with this...you CAN do this if you put your complete mind and focus on it. Be dedicated to your business. If you treat it like a real business (and not a hobby), it will reap the benefits of a real business.
This is JUST the beginning...the future is bright! With all the chaos in the world today, I am proud to be a part of something that gives people HOPE! Be encouraged today!
If you accidentally stumbled upon this page and want to find out more about Young Living and joining my team, just go ahead and click here.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Lessons From The People Whom I Can't Thank Enough
I guess you could say I kind of stand out amongst other people my age. On my weekends, I go to leadership meetings and teach people about health and wellness. In the evening, I'm on conference calls/webinars to learn more about business and leadership skills, and I currently have a stack of John Maxwell books sitting on my shelf that I am working through. I mean, here I am, about to graduate college while on my way to financial freedom through residual income that I have generated through my "side" Essential Oil Business (which I plan to make full time in the very near future). While all my friends are going to career fairs and planning when they are going to take the GRE for graduate school, here I am urgently looking forward to the day when I graduate so I can finally have time to work my business full time. Clearly I'm not your "average" college student. Haha. The question I often get is, WHY? Why am I doing this? Why am I like this? While personality can come into play a little bit, I know the majority of the reason is due to the influence of my parents growing up. Please hear me out, I am NOT saying this to brag in ANY way...I just want to share with you some of the principles of personal growth, independence, and financial freedom that my parents have instilled into me that have made me successful in who I am today, and to show you how these same simple principles can totally rock your world as they have mine.
When I was little, my parents would play CD's of motivational speakers in the car ALL THE TIME. Sounds like a 4 year old girl's dream, right?...Or not. I cannot tell you how many times I begged them to play the Pocahontas or The Little Mermaid soundtrack. I mean, personal development could NOT have been more boring to me at the time. However, whether I realized it or not...the principles I was hearing became drilled into my being, and they have left an enormous mark on my life. This is just ONE aspect of how my parents have played such a key role in my life, and are people whom I really look up to.
The principles I'm about to share with you are principles for SUCCESS that have inspired me on my journey to where I am today. They will inspire you too, and if you practice them, watch out world, because you will be UNSTOPPABLE! YOU were made to THRIVE, NOT merely survive! Never forget that!
1. You are UNLIMITED. Don't limit yourself. Don't let others limit you. My dad used to tell me all the time, "Priya, you can do ANYTHING at all, if you are willing to put in the work. Don't be afraid to dream big." I cannot tell you the effect this has on a child. If you are a parent, don't ever limit your children or tell them they're not good enough. I am telling you guys, if you truly grasp this concept, the world will not be able to stop you. There will be NO limits to what you can accomplish. I have often heard Adam Green, a network marketing professional who I look up to, say that the most expensive thing you can own is a closed mind. Think about that for a minute.
2. Think out of the box. You don't have to follow everyone else, make your own path. For example, our society says to do well in high school, go to college for 4 years, graduate, and then get a good job so you can work for 40 years and then retire to the "golden years," where you can really enjoy life. I don't know about you guys, but I just can't seem to come to terms with the fact that most people work 40 years of their life in a job they don't like...just to enjoy 10-15 years afterwards. Something seems out of balance there. I want my whole life to be golden years, no?! If time is the only commodity we invest that we never get back, why are so many people investing it in something they don't enjoy? My point is this: Don't feel like you always have to go with the "status quo." Remember it is the people who "go against the grain" in life that truly make an impact in the world. Be creative, be unique, be you.
3. Invest in Yourself. The human mind is an extremely powerful tool, and YOU are worth the investment. I cannot stress this enough. All of those motivational speakers my parents made me listen to as a 4 year old? That had a HUGE impact on my life, even though at the time I did NOT enjoy it. Personal development equips you and gives you the tools you need to meet your goals in this world. Life can be ugly, guys. It can bring you down, but if you are equipped to know how to handle yourself in response to whatever comes your way by using your failures to leverage you into greater growth....my oh my...nothing can stop you.
4. ALWAYS have a heart of generosity and gratefulness. When things in your life go wrong, remember that there are always those who have it worse than you. Count your blessings, and readily use what you have been given to bless others. We are blessed to bless. Also, remember that the most important things in this life cannot be bought.
5. Be good stewards of your money! This goes hand-in-hand with #4. Make wise financial decisions. In other words, don't buy things you can't afford and drive yourself into debt. My dad has ALWAYS taught me that if there is any way possible, AVOID loans and debt. You will sleep so much more soundly at night with that stress off your shoulders. Use your money as a tool to work for you. You should own your money, it should not own you. If you're thinking about making a big purchase this year such as buying a house or car, it is always smart to get some financial advising. Personal Capital has some great free finance tools here that can help you in this way.
In conclusion, an open letter to the people whom I can't thank enough:
Dear Mom and Dad,
Thank you for the incredible impact you have had on my life. Thank you for the principles of independence and strength that you have taught me from a very young age. Thank you for teaching me how to make wise financial decisions, in being generous and giving back, as well as teaching me self-discipline in that area. Thank you for ALWAYS being my number one fan, and encouraging me to fight for my dreams no matter what others thought of me. I love you guys so much.
And to everyone reading this, you ARE a world changer. You CAN make a difference, and you CAN choose to act today and start living the life you want to live.
Love you guys!! Be sure to hit the "follow" button on the right so you can be back to continue our series on personal values!!
Monday, January 25, 2016
Defining Your Values: A Series (3/6)
Hello friends :)
I hope you all have had a wonderful start to your week...you know, I was talking to someone today and I was asking them how their day was going, and they replied with a mellow, "well, you know, Monday." I was tempted to agree and then was like WAIT...NO!!! If the days of the week had feelings, I think Monday would be the most hurt because people always seem to be complaining about the dreaded...Monday! You know it's true! We really need to change our view of Mondays here, guys. Monday is NOT just a boring, dreaded, start to the week. Monday is the opportunity for a new, fresh, beginning! A week full of opportunities, decisions, and moving forward. Why don't we stop looking at Mondays as something to dread but instead as something new we can LEARN this week! Whether you absolutely LOVE Mondays because you love what you do, or you hate your job and the fact that you have to sit at your cramped desk all week listening to your annoying coworkers complain about how the coffeemaker in the lounge stopped working, make a decision to CHOOSE to LOVE Mondays because of the OPPORTUNITIES the week will bring. Happiness is a CHOICE...Anyway, okay, rant over. Let's shift back to what you really came here for...
The real reason I am writing this post is to discuss my 3rd value for our series on values! I am so excited about this, guys!! We are half-way done!
Okay, so this is HUGE. Now, I know It sounds like some really fancy thing that seems really complicated and hard, but I am telling you, it's not. It just requires a little...mmm..intentionality (sorry to my 6th grade vocabulary teacher who told me never to define a word using the word). Intentionality means choosing to make time for people...DESPITE the craziness of life. Newsflash, we are ALL BUSY. Yup. All of us, in our own way. So, you are no longer allowed to use that as an excuse because we are all on the same playing field here. :) Intentionality means choosing to act DESPITE your busyness. It means choosing to write a 3 sentence card to your friend on their birthday or anniversary...sending them a quick text letting them know that you prayed for them today (make sure you actually did)...or sending them some flowers when you know they're feeling down...I am telling you guys, people LOVE this. YOU love this! Think about the last time someone took the time to write and send you a personal note. It made your day, right? And you probably kept it for a long time too! Sadly, even though writing a quick note can literally take 5 minutes and is SO easy, this is an area that I am working to be better at as well, so trust me, I am talking to myself here too! Haha.
Anyway, I KNOW this makes a HUGE impact on people in our world. This REALLY lets people know that you CARE, and THAT makes a difference. PEOPLE MATTER. Your RELATIONSHIPS with them matter. In the business world, this tells people that you appreciate them and really do care for them as a person...it lets them know that they're not just a number to you, but a living, breathing person, whom you care about. If you are in the kind of business I am in..it is about SOOO much more than you or I..or even...essential oils (gasp! Yes, I said it!)...it's about PEOPLE and the PEOPLE God has put in our lives to SERVE and LEAD. So...my challenge to you (and to myself), is to take a moment RIGHT NOW and write a quick encouraging note to a friend. Go ahead, do it right now. I'm doing it with you.
Now, tomorrow, put a stamp on it and put in in your mailbox. Okay? Okay. Let's be intentional in our relationships.
Love you guys!! Thanks for taking the time to read this! I'll see you back here for value #4 coming soon!
I hope you all have had a wonderful start to your week...you know, I was talking to someone today and I was asking them how their day was going, and they replied with a mellow, "well, you know, Monday." I was tempted to agree and then was like WAIT...NO!!! If the days of the week had feelings, I think Monday would be the most hurt because people always seem to be complaining about the dreaded...Monday! You know it's true! We really need to change our view of Mondays here, guys. Monday is NOT just a boring, dreaded, start to the week. Monday is the opportunity for a new, fresh, beginning! A week full of opportunities, decisions, and moving forward. Why don't we stop looking at Mondays as something to dread but instead as something new we can LEARN this week! Whether you absolutely LOVE Mondays because you love what you do, or you hate your job and the fact that you have to sit at your cramped desk all week listening to your annoying coworkers complain about how the coffeemaker in the lounge stopped working, make a decision to CHOOSE to LOVE Mondays because of the OPPORTUNITIES the week will bring. Happiness is a CHOICE...Anyway, okay, rant over. Let's shift back to what you really came here for...
The real reason I am writing this post is to discuss my 3rd value for our series on values! I am so excited about this, guys!! We are half-way done!
Value #3: Intentional Relationships
Okay, so this is HUGE. Now, I know It sounds like some really fancy thing that seems really complicated and hard, but I am telling you, it's not. It just requires a little...mmm..intentionality (sorry to my 6th grade vocabulary teacher who told me never to define a word using the word). Intentionality means choosing to make time for people...DESPITE the craziness of life. Newsflash, we are ALL BUSY. Yup. All of us, in our own way. So, you are no longer allowed to use that as an excuse because we are all on the same playing field here. :) Intentionality means choosing to act DESPITE your busyness. It means choosing to write a 3 sentence card to your friend on their birthday or anniversary...sending them a quick text letting them know that you prayed for them today (make sure you actually did)...or sending them some flowers when you know they're feeling down...I am telling you guys, people LOVE this. YOU love this! Think about the last time someone took the time to write and send you a personal note. It made your day, right? And you probably kept it for a long time too! Sadly, even though writing a quick note can literally take 5 minutes and is SO easy, this is an area that I am working to be better at as well, so trust me, I am talking to myself here too! Haha.
Anyway, I KNOW this makes a HUGE impact on people in our world. This REALLY lets people know that you CARE, and THAT makes a difference. PEOPLE MATTER. Your RELATIONSHIPS with them matter. In the business world, this tells people that you appreciate them and really do care for them as a person...it lets them know that they're not just a number to you, but a living, breathing person, whom you care about. If you are in the kind of business I am in..it is about SOOO much more than you or I..or even...essential oils (gasp! Yes, I said it!)...it's about PEOPLE and the PEOPLE God has put in our lives to SERVE and LEAD. So...my challenge to you (and to myself), is to take a moment RIGHT NOW and write a quick encouraging note to a friend. Go ahead, do it right now. I'm doing it with you.
Now, tomorrow, put a stamp on it and put in in your mailbox. Okay? Okay. Let's be intentional in our relationships.
Love you guys!! Thanks for taking the time to read this! I'll see you back here for value #4 coming soon!
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Defining Your Values: A Series (2/6)
"Do not remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."- Isaiah 43:18-19
Goodbye 2015, hello 2016! It's a new year, a new start. I just started a 21 days of prayer for my business to start off the new year (you can find out more about that here if you're interested), and ALREADY God has been moving in my heart. This verse really speaks to me and I am declaring it as my theme verse for 2016. I am SO excited to start off the year in the right way by setting my focus on the Lord and I am thrilled to see how He works this year.
In the second post of this series, I am going to talk about a value to me that is absolutely critical to growth in any area of life, and in being a successful leader. While these posts are not in any order regarding ranking of values (except the for the last one...which is really my #1 value), this one definitely ranks up somewhere near the top. Also, with the new year just ringing in, there is no better time to write about this:
What is your vision for 2016? Where do you see yourself going? What do you see yourself doing? Who do you want to impact?
Goodbye 2015, hello 2016! It's a new year, a new start. I just started a 21 days of prayer for my business to start off the new year (you can find out more about that here if you're interested), and ALREADY God has been moving in my heart. This verse really speaks to me and I am declaring it as my theme verse for 2016. I am SO excited to start off the year in the right way by setting my focus on the Lord and I am thrilled to see how He works this year.
In the second post of this series, I am going to talk about a value to me that is absolutely critical to growth in any area of life, and in being a successful leader. While these posts are not in any order regarding ranking of values (except the for the last one...which is really my #1 value), this one definitely ranks up somewhere near the top. Also, with the new year just ringing in, there is no better time to write about this:
Value #2: Vision
Vision. Proverbs 29:18 states "Where there is no vision, the people perish." Vision is what drives people, it motivates them. It gets them through the hard times because they are able to see the greater vision, the dream. It is the job of the leader to cast a vision for the team, to give them direction and pave the way. It is crucial to the success of any large feat. VISION inspires people to ACTION which leads to GOAL SETTING which in turn makes DREAMS come true. Vision gives one a concrete picture of what they are trying to create as a result of their actions. So this new year, in whatever area you may be working in, if you are in a position of influence and leadership, cast a direction for the people you are working with. It creates unity, drive, and success.
What is your vision for 2016? Where do you see yourself going? What do you see yourself doing? Who do you want to impact?
Keep in mind that VISION does not mean GOALS, though it can include your goals. GOALS are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time bound. Whereas a VISION is a more broad and general direction that you see yourself going. However, your GOALS should lead you to accomplishing your VISION, which will inspire further action to make your DREAMS come true! :)
Without a vision, the people perish. What is your vision for 2016?
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Defining Your Values: A Series (1/6)
Values. We all have them, whether we have taken the time to seek them out and define them or not. They are principles that define us- our businesses, our work, our free time, our interactions with others...they are a core part of who are are, and they are different for everybody. They define who we are and explain why we do the things we do. Every successful company has core values that defines what they are about. Think about it- Disney, Apple, Walmart...even the University I attend has 4 core values that drive it. Our businesses are driven by values too, and it is important for us to recognize and define them so that people who see us know what we are about and what we are striving for.
Last February when I attended the Thrive Conference in Nashville hosted by Monique McLean, we had a session on this very topic. I went home, did some soul searching, and developed my values- I have 6 of them. I am going to do a series for the next 6 posts of going through those values and why they matter- I am not ashamed of them as they really encompass what drives me to keep working on growing my business (they are different than my "why," though they make up parts of it)....also I hope it will encourage YOU to seek out your personal values - they will be different than mine and represent a picture of your business and your life. At the end of this series, I will make a post with a step-by-step guide for how you can come up with your values! It's going to be great!
SO, with that being said...
(Also these are in no particular order, except for the last one, which is really my top one- best for last, ya know? ;))
I got a text today from a good family friend that I helped introduce the oils to and become a part of this journey. She explained how her family was incorporating the oils into all parts of their lives and how even her kids loved learning about them and using them. She said it was a lifestyle change and expressed thanks for how much she loved her oils.
I got another phone call recently from a downline member who told me a heart-warming story about how she was so thankful for Ningxia Red and how it has completely changed her dad's life- for the better. Calls and messages like this are not out of the ordinary in this oily journey, and it is so fun and exciting to hear each time! My automatic response in my mind: I was a part of that? Of telling you about this? Wow, that is humbling. I give all the glory for everything in my business to the Lord, for it is He that brings people into our lives and causes our business to grow, but the fact that He is choosing to use me in such an impacting position is so incredibly humbling!
BUT the greater fact is that lives are being changed!! I'm not just talking about physical wellness here, either, guys!! I'm talking about empowering people to live in wellness, purpose, and abundance in ALL areas of life -spiritual, emotional, physical, and financial. It gives me the opportunity to serve people and lead people- to show them the love of Christ in all of my work. I am thrilled to be a part of a company that is so life changing....truly! THIS is part of my "why" I do what I do....I share the oils with everyone I possibly can because I know how it will positively make an impact in their life, and I want to be a part of that. To me, not telling someone is incredibly selfish. When we help to change people's lives we are changing the world, one little bit at a time.
I am a world changer, and you know what!? I believe you can be too! :)
Last February when I attended the Thrive Conference in Nashville hosted by Monique McLean, we had a session on this very topic. I went home, did some soul searching, and developed my values- I have 6 of them. I am going to do a series for the next 6 posts of going through those values and why they matter- I am not ashamed of them as they really encompass what drives me to keep working on growing my business (they are different than my "why," though they make up parts of it)....also I hope it will encourage YOU to seek out your personal values - they will be different than mine and represent a picture of your business and your life. At the end of this series, I will make a post with a step-by-step guide for how you can come up with your values! It's going to be great!
SO, with that being said...
Value #1: Changing Lives
(Also these are in no particular order, except for the last one, which is really my top one- best for last, ya know? ;))
I got a text today from a good family friend that I helped introduce the oils to and become a part of this journey. She explained how her family was incorporating the oils into all parts of their lives and how even her kids loved learning about them and using them. She said it was a lifestyle change and expressed thanks for how much she loved her oils.
I got another phone call recently from a downline member who told me a heart-warming story about how she was so thankful for Ningxia Red and how it has completely changed her dad's life- for the better. Calls and messages like this are not out of the ordinary in this oily journey, and it is so fun and exciting to hear each time! My automatic response in my mind: I was a part of that? Of telling you about this? Wow, that is humbling. I give all the glory for everything in my business to the Lord, for it is He that brings people into our lives and causes our business to grow, but the fact that He is choosing to use me in such an impacting position is so incredibly humbling!
BUT the greater fact is that lives are being changed!! I'm not just talking about physical wellness here, either, guys!! I'm talking about empowering people to live in wellness, purpose, and abundance in ALL areas of life -spiritual, emotional, physical, and financial. It gives me the opportunity to serve people and lead people- to show them the love of Christ in all of my work. I am thrilled to be a part of a company that is so life changing....truly! THIS is part of my "why" I do what I do....I share the oils with everyone I possibly can because I know how it will positively make an impact in their life, and I want to be a part of that. To me, not telling someone is incredibly selfish. When we help to change people's lives we are changing the world, one little bit at a time.
I am a world changer, and you know what!? I believe you can be too! :)
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
An Unusual Twist on Gratitude
Today I was looking back over some of my past twitter/facebook posts, and the more I did that, the more I was overcome with an overwhelming feeling of gratitude. I remembered the good times, the times I was laughing so hard I was crying, the memories made with my friends, and the longing to be remake those memories again. However, I really was drawn to reflecting on the difficult times, and more importantly, how much I had grown through those difficult times.
It's weird.
You see, I enjoyed thinking about and reminiscing on the hard times almost more so than I did on the fun times. It seems almost backward.
I'm not saying that I necessarily enjoyed the thoughts and feelings that rushed back along with those hard memories, but it made me realize where I am today, and how I would not be where I am today had I NOT had those hard times, and had I not chosen to grow through them. Hence, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for them.
God is so good. He grace is....indescribable. In my own life, I've always found that I grow the most through tough times, and I'm pretty sure that applies to most people. I LOVE Genesis 50:20 that states "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result." (NASB) What Satan intends for evil, God can turn it around for good and for His glory, because He works ALL things for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28). We see this all throughout the Bible, but the story of Joseph is especially brought to my mind.
So, what can we learn from this?
1. You can choose to accept and be at peace about the past: Nothing that you've done is out of the reach of God's forgiveness and grace. Don't beat yourself up! Forgiveness of yourself and others is a key catalyst to the healing process. God can and will work everything for your good! I'm not saying you may not have to deal with the consequences of your actions, but your future can be bright! We all make mistakes, so don't dwell on the past, but rather, choose to learn and grow from it. :)
2. Live in the present! I sometimes catch myself playing the "what if" game...don't do that! You are where you are for a reason. The past is gone. Whatever you are doing and wherever you are, be all in and do it for HIS glory.
3. Get excited about the future- and stop worrying! God has you in His hand, and He will guide your path and direct you, if you let Him! Yes, we make mistakes, but He is always there to guide us back and lead us to Him. I was once told to think of it like a GPS. We're supposed to let God direct us (let Him be our GPS), but sometimes we take a wrong turn. When this happens, the GPS recalculates to get us back on the right track- so God does with our life!
Here are 2 songs that I absolutely LOVE that completely resonate with this entry:
Sovereign Over Us- Aaron Keyes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPkMbhydU9I
Through All of It- Colton Dixon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91KliTa1ksY
Anyway, just a few thoughts for the day. Time to go back and study for my Gen Chem II final exam that is tomorrow..ha.. :p THANK YOU for taking the time to read. :)
It's weird.
You see, I enjoyed thinking about and reminiscing on the hard times almost more so than I did on the fun times. It seems almost backward.
I'm not saying that I necessarily enjoyed the thoughts and feelings that rushed back along with those hard memories, but it made me realize where I am today, and how I would not be where I am today had I NOT had those hard times, and had I not chosen to grow through them. Hence, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for them.
God is so good. He grace is....indescribable. In my own life, I've always found that I grow the most through tough times, and I'm pretty sure that applies to most people. I LOVE Genesis 50:20 that states "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result." (NASB) What Satan intends for evil, God can turn it around for good and for His glory, because He works ALL things for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28). We see this all throughout the Bible, but the story of Joseph is especially brought to my mind.
So, what can we learn from this?
1. You can choose to accept and be at peace about the past: Nothing that you've done is out of the reach of God's forgiveness and grace. Don't beat yourself up! Forgiveness of yourself and others is a key catalyst to the healing process. God can and will work everything for your good! I'm not saying you may not have to deal with the consequences of your actions, but your future can be bright! We all make mistakes, so don't dwell on the past, but rather, choose to learn and grow from it. :)
2. Live in the present! I sometimes catch myself playing the "what if" game...don't do that! You are where you are for a reason. The past is gone. Whatever you are doing and wherever you are, be all in and do it for HIS glory.
3. Get excited about the future- and stop worrying! God has you in His hand, and He will guide your path and direct you, if you let Him! Yes, we make mistakes, but He is always there to guide us back and lead us to Him. I was once told to think of it like a GPS. We're supposed to let God direct us (let Him be our GPS), but sometimes we take a wrong turn. When this happens, the GPS recalculates to get us back on the right track- so God does with our life!
Here are 2 songs that I absolutely LOVE that completely resonate with this entry:
Sovereign Over Us- Aaron Keyes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPkMbhydU9I
Through All of It- Colton Dixon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91KliTa1ksY
Anyway, just a few thoughts for the day. Time to go back and study for my Gen Chem II final exam that is tomorrow..ha.. :p THANK YOU for taking the time to read. :)
Friday, March 13, 2015
One Step At A Time
Hello, lovely people!
I was recently asked to write a blog post and be a guest author for the Lavender Legacy Team (www.lavenderlegacyteam.com), and this is the post that I wrote for them. I wanted to document it on my blog as well, so I simply copied and pasted it here so you could enjoy it as well. :)
Today I get to write on a topic that is near and dear to my heart, because it's something that I have to remember DAILY. I am ALWAYS reminding myself that this Oily biz (and life in general) that I'm blessed to be a part of is a journey, NOT a destination. You see, I'm extremely goal driven, so I like to look at pictures like this...
...and dream about being a RCD, like, tomorrow. I think to myself: "Obviously I have a lot to do before then, but soon enough, I will be there! Full speed ahead!" Through this mindset I've found that it's easy to get so wrapped up in that dream that you are so focused on, that you end up forgetting the little things that got you there and enjoying where you are in life now. I found a nice quote by Calvin & Hobbes that summed it up well: "We are so busy watching out for what is ahead of us, that we don't take time to enjoy where we are."
(Disclaimer: I am NOT saying it's bad to dream big and look ahead and all that stuff! It's CRUCIAL to dream big and picture the future and see yourself as who you want to be, I'm ALL FOR THAT.)
BUT when I am a RCD, I never want to forget how I felt when I reached this...
(Disclaimer: I am NOT saying it's bad to dream big and look ahead and all that stuff! It's CRUCIAL to dream big and picture the future and see yourself as who you want to be, I'm ALL FOR THAT.)
BUT when I am a RCD, I never want to forget how I felt when I reached this...
...and everything it took to get me there: The one-on-one's with my professors, the times I got up at 5am on a Saturday -my last day of break- to drive an hour to be at a mom2mom event by 7am, the roadtrips to THRIVE conference, the moment I realized my core values and wrote my goals for the first time, the times I stepped out of my comfort zone and emerged on the other side more confident than ever OR the times when I was discouraged because absolutely no one showed up to a meeting I was hosting or no one liked my Young Living posts on Facebook.
It's the LITTLE things that build your story, that eventually culminate in your end goal, and ultimately, your story. I'm in college now, so I really have to focus on finding balance between biz, school, and social life. If I'm not careful, it's easy for me to do primarily biz stuff and school, leaving little time for me to build relationships with my friends. My challenge to you is to take time EVERY DAY to INTENTIONALLY appreciate the day for what it is, not for the deadlines you did or did not make, but because it is another day that you have been given. We are not promised tomorrow. Each rank and chapter of life has new responsibilities and opportunities of it's own, enjoy them. This is a relationship biz, so build them! Develop friendships. Laugh. Share. Enjoy life.
I'm 19 and I already am realizing the incredible pace at which life flies by, and I've been told it just gets faster. I want to enjoy every stage of my life, every chapter, every rank, to it's fullest. So, no matter where you are in this JOURNEY, enjoy each day and all that it has to offer. While looking ahead to the future and dreaming is CRUCIAL, do not let it overstep it's bounds to the point where you are not appreciating every step of the journey you're on to get there.
That being said, I thought I'd share with you a few pics from my journey. Let's do some reminiscing, shall we?
It's the LITTLE things that build your story, that eventually culminate in your end goal, and ultimately, your story. I'm in college now, so I really have to focus on finding balance between biz, school, and social life. If I'm not careful, it's easy for me to do primarily biz stuff and school, leaving little time for me to build relationships with my friends. My challenge to you is to take time EVERY DAY to INTENTIONALLY appreciate the day for what it is, not for the deadlines you did or did not make, but because it is another day that you have been given. We are not promised tomorrow. Each rank and chapter of life has new responsibilities and opportunities of it's own, enjoy them. This is a relationship biz, so build them! Develop friendships. Laugh. Share. Enjoy life.
I'm 19 and I already am realizing the incredible pace at which life flies by, and I've been told it just gets faster. I want to enjoy every stage of my life, every chapter, every rank, to it's fullest. So, no matter where you are in this JOURNEY, enjoy each day and all that it has to offer. While looking ahead to the future and dreaming is CRUCIAL, do not let it overstep it's bounds to the point where you are not appreciating every step of the journey you're on to get there.
That being said, I thought I'd share with you a few pics from my journey. Let's do some reminiscing, shall we?
My first weekend at college, freshman year. Oils were a thing, but not a business thing. Aw, we all look like little babies.
Convention 2014: TOTALLY Rocked my view of Young Living and decided that maybe this biz is something that I could really do! I was especially inspired by Adam Green, the youngest in YL history to achieve any of the Diamond ranks, and I was determined that I would beat his record. Watch out, Adam. :)
Next, I had learned that "Leaders are Readers," So I decided to read this book, The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz and it COMPLETELY changed my mindset around and really got me thinking. Seriously, read this book. It will change your business and any view you THINK you have of your biz.
Next, I had learned that "Leaders are Readers," So I decided to read this book, The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz and it COMPLETELY changed my mindset around and really got me thinking. Seriously, read this book. It will change your business and any view you THINK you have of your biz.
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Sophomore year didn't start off so well...I broke my leg the first week of school and had to get major surgery which included 2 plates and 14 screws, which will forever reside in my left leg. I ended up missing two weeks of school and was disabled to some extent for the rest of the semester. This was a huge distraction in my biz, and my growth quickly started to decline. It was an EXTREMELY humbling experience like no other.
 |  |  |
When I was home for Christmas break, I completely reset my goals and was ready to give this thing a go, for real. The troubles of the previous semester had actually strengthened my relationship with the Lord in incredible ways. I asked Him to completely be my CEO and to lead me to people that NEEDED these oils. My biggest value is "God-glorified;" He gets ALL the glory for the success of my biz. Since then, I've steadily seen growth; adding new members every month and helping those that are currently enrolled. I love my team and working with such great people! Things haven't always been smooth sailing, but hey, as they say, a smooth sea does not make a skilled sailor! ;) Anyway, it's all a part of my journey, and I'm learning to appreciate and enjoy every part of it. Where are you in YOUR journey and how did you get there? I'd love to hear from you so please comment below, shoot me an email, or connect with me on social media (see the icons at the top of the page). :)
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Fear.
So, it's been a while since I've posted anything, and to be perfectly honest, blogging isn't something that comes naturally to me. Like, I guess I'd rather write out my thoughts in a private journal as opposed to all over the web (then I don't have to worry about grammar and spelling as much either, ha).
BUT God's really been laying this topic on my heart and writing it on here allows it to benefit more than just me.
A wise person once said,
"Action cures fear, while indecision and postponement, on the other hand, fertilizes it."
F.E.A.R.
In the Bible, the phrase "Do not fear" or similar is written 365 times. God's reminder for us each day to not be afraid. Somehow, though, it seems that the church is missing this point, or it hasn't fully gotten absorbed. Anxiety, stress, nervousness- all of that is rooted in fear. Fear that I'm not going to get my work done. Fear that I'm going to fail a test. Fear that I won't be good enough. Fear that I'm going to fail, or fail again, Fear of the future.
The list goes on and on...
The sad reality is that fear is crippling the lives of believers, who are called to not live in fear! "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of POWER and of LOVE and of a SOUND MIND (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV)." What if characters of the Bible such as David, Moses, or Noah were too afraid to act on what God told them to do? Of course they were naturally afraid (who wouldn't be, facing a 9 foot giant), but acting in spite of their fear and relying on God is what allowed them do accomplish great things for the Lord. These people trusted in the promises of God, and that He was going to be there for them. Their FAITH overcame their FEAR, and that is what made them heros of the Bible. I don't like to beat around the bush, so to get to the point, fear is rooted in the doubt that God will really do what He said He would do. Acting despite fear, however, builds faith.
"What!? That's not true! Of course I believe that God will come through on His Word! I have faith in God!"
That's what you're thinking, right? I'm not saying you don't. I'm just saying, if you're constantly worried and afraid, maybe that's something that you need to work out with God. This doesn't just apply to facing giants, but the little things in life too. "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life (Matt 6:27)?"
I realize that this is a deep topic, that can't fully be covered by one short blog post. However, I just want to encourage you to PRAY next time you are starting to worry about a situation or event. If you are a His child, God's got your back. He IS faithful.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7)."
BUT God's really been laying this topic on my heart and writing it on here allows it to benefit more than just me.
A wise person once said,
"Action cures fear, while indecision and postponement, on the other hand, fertilizes it."
F.E.A.R.
In the Bible, the phrase "Do not fear" or similar is written 365 times. God's reminder for us each day to not be afraid. Somehow, though, it seems that the church is missing this point, or it hasn't fully gotten absorbed. Anxiety, stress, nervousness- all of that is rooted in fear. Fear that I'm not going to get my work done. Fear that I'm going to fail a test. Fear that I won't be good enough. Fear that I'm going to fail, or fail again, Fear of the future.
The list goes on and on...
The sad reality is that fear is crippling the lives of believers, who are called to not live in fear! "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of POWER and of LOVE and of a SOUND MIND (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV)." What if characters of the Bible such as David, Moses, or Noah were too afraid to act on what God told them to do? Of course they were naturally afraid (who wouldn't be, facing a 9 foot giant), but acting in spite of their fear and relying on God is what allowed them do accomplish great things for the Lord. These people trusted in the promises of God, and that He was going to be there for them. Their FAITH overcame their FEAR, and that is what made them heros of the Bible. I don't like to beat around the bush, so to get to the point, fear is rooted in the doubt that God will really do what He said He would do. Acting despite fear, however, builds faith.
"What!? That's not true! Of course I believe that God will come through on His Word! I have faith in God!"
That's what you're thinking, right? I'm not saying you don't. I'm just saying, if you're constantly worried and afraid, maybe that's something that you need to work out with God. This doesn't just apply to facing giants, but the little things in life too. "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life (Matt 6:27)?"
I realize that this is a deep topic, that can't fully be covered by one short blog post. However, I just want to encourage you to PRAY next time you are starting to worry about a situation or event. If you are a His child, God's got your back. He IS faithful.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7)."
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