Inspiring You
Publisher, Creative & Editorial Director
Johnetta A. Alston
Editor-In-Chief
Shemetra Carter
Contributors
Ken Johnson
Kelly Valentine Jones
Kristina Krizman
Carlene Lewis Redmond
Cathy Johnson
Jennifer Eichelberger
All We Need Is Possible!
It’s been an exciting and very interesting time for me lately. I’m sure the same applies to you in in some way. There’s always so much to do, to accomplish, to make different, to make better, to be better, and of course to look and feel better at the end of the day.
What’s your list like? Is it written down somewhere, did you lose it along the way? Maybe you never wrote it down in the first place. Perhaps you’re holding onto in your head and heart; with everything you’ve got. Like all of the precious things we hold dear, nurture it, speak to it in your own way until it’s time to give it life!
As you approach those milestones, I want to encourage you to give voice to all that’s possible. Take baby steps, do whatever it takes, just do something! The moment you do, you’re preparing for your breakthrough! No one said it’d be easy. “Mama said there’d be days like this,” but we all know it’s possible.
Several years ago there was a movie that spoke to my heart called, ‘Soul Surfer.’ It’s about the young woman who lost her arm in a shark attack and her journey back to some sense of normalcy. In one of the trailers for the movie, they show a scene that’s life changing. There’s a scene in it where her family and doctors are trying to prepare her for the rough road ahead. They’re trying to help her understand that the road won’t be easy. She looks at them and says, “I don’t need easy, I need possible! !” She said it with such conviction and determination, because she meant it, and so do I. Isn’t that what we all want and need? Yes, there will be obstacles, heartache, loss and tough times. I want you know that you have everything you need. You just don’t trust it yet. That’s the place inside that kicks you in the butt, and forces you to be bolder about everything.
Believe in possible, pray for possible, and then trust that you’re enough when POSSIBLE is staring you in the face!! I saw a sign a while back that said, “Boldness has power and genius in it, what are you waiting for?” Winners find a way or make a way. It’s your turn...just believe!
Light, Love & Inspiration,
Johnetta
MEET THE CONTRIBUTORS
Shemetra Carter Editor-in-Chief
Shemetra Carter is a native of Dallas, Texas. She has a BFA in theater from New York University (TSOA). She has an MA from CAU in African and African-American Studies. Her training includes performing with the historic Negro Ensemble Company, as well as acting, directing, playwriting and producing throughout Dallas, New York and Atlanta. Onion Man Productions produced her 10 Minute Play”Dear Bruh.” Most recently, her monologues were included in “50in50: Writing Women into Existence” at Brooklyn’s Billie Holiday Theatre, Waco Theater Center in Los Angeles and 50in50’s Shattering Glass Ceiling Anniversary.
Ken Johnson
Hi! My name is Kelly Jones. I am married to a wonderful man that I do not deserve. We just celebrated 29 years together, and there’s nowhere else I would rather be than by his side! We have two gorgeous grown daughters, one son-inlaw (almost two!), and a precious grandbaby boy - we love watching their stories unfold. Currently I am learning all the things about parenting adult children (it’s harder and more wonderful than I ever dreamed) and about being a new grandmama to the most joyful baby on the planet. I am a pastor’s wife, a former Registered Nurse, and I recently left the classroom after 17 years in public education. I loved teaching high school, but it was time for the next chapter of my own story. Stick around to see what’s next!
Ken Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor. He is an ordained minister of the gospel and Founder and Administrative director of East-West Psychotherapy in Marietta, Georgia. He is an alumni of Leadership Cobb 2017. He is on the Board of Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theater. He has participated in Dancing With The Stars-Marietta winning the Judges Choice and People’s Choice Awards all while being paralyzed and in a wheelchair due to a medical emergency in 2013. Ken also sings with The Strand Ole Opry at the Strand Theatre in Marietta, Georgia. Ken serves on the Community Advisory Committee for Shepherd Center, Rehabilitation Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Ken is active in his local church congregation. Ken has been married for 38 years to Cathy. They have two grown daughters, a son-in-law, and two grandchildren. Ken’s relationship to Jesus Christ is the most important thing in his life. Knowing God is in the midst of his circumstances allows him to experience joy in suffering and the hope for a better tomorrow.
Kelly Valentine Jones
Kristina Krizman
Kristina Krizman has been a Licensed Esthetician for over 20 years. She previously owned an award winning Day Spa in Savannah, Georgia and now resides in Asheville, NC. While her earned degree in accounting was put to good use in her early years, she has been interested in the beauty and fashion industry all her life. After having her first facial at age 14, she spent many years studying on her own.
She earned her esthetic license from the International School of Skin and Nails in Atlanta, GA and has logged over 100 post graduate hours through the International Dermal Institute based in California.
Kristina has also done runway and print modeling and worked as a nail tech. Now, Kristina enjoys coaching people in good skin care practices, offering fashion and etiquette advise to friends and family and sharing inspirational messages. In a nutshell, she would describe herself as follows:
Esthetician, Volunteer, Customer Service Professional, Auntie/Great Auntie, Sister, Grams, Flower Lover, Clothes Horse, World Traveler, ‘All Things Positive promoter’, Better Half to my Better Half, Junior Leaguer, Disney Lover … and not necessarily in that order!
For questions and connecting, you can reach me via email: kris.krizman@icloud.com . I also have a weekly post on Instagram called ‘Words for Wednesday’ – sharing positive vibes. (kaknc)
Jennifer Eichelberger
Eichelberger has a strong background in Christian media and holds degrees from Marshall, George Washington, Jericho Christian Training College, Vision Alliance, and the University of Georgia, along with an honorary doctorate. She is affiliated with several film and business organizations and was the first president of the Gwinnett NCNW. A life member of NCNW, she also belongs to Top Ladies of Distinction and Interstate North Toastmasters.
Author of three books and recipient of numerous awards, including a Life Time Achievement Award signed by President Biden and Vice President Harris, and a Humanitarian Award, she is married to Dr. Herbert L. Eichelberger. They are active members of First Congregational Church of Atlanta, where she serves in various ministries.
Cathy Johnson
After retiring from her communications career, Cathy became a Certified Professional Life Coach (CPLC) and trained at the Professional Christian Caching Institute (PCCI).
She is also a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Now, as a Strengths Champion Certified Coach(R), she coaches and conducts workshops to actively encourage individuals and churches, through Clifton StrengthsFinder(R), to use their God-given strengths to realize their unique. Identity, passion, and purpose and to better serve others.
Mediation and Arbitration. She is also a registered neutral, mediator, and arbitrator recognized by the Supreme Court of Georgia’s Commission on Dispute Resolution. Additionally, Carlene manages a courtbased alternative dispute resolution unit. She can be contacted at solvingdisputes@ gmail.com
Sweet Spring Slumber: STOP WAKING
UP TIRED
Whenwas the last time you had a great night’s sleep? You know, the kind where you wake up and you jump out of bed and you feel so energized and refreshed and focused? Wouldn’t it be fantastic if you wake up tomorrow and your first thought is, Wow, I feel so great! Waking up groggy and exhausted, even after a full night’s sleep, can be incredibly frustrating. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! Sleep should not feel like work. And, while many of us struggle with this, thankfully, Dr. Rebecca Robbins, a sleep scientist and instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School, has some fantastic insights and practical tips to help us wake up feeling refreshed and ready to seize the day. As we age, our sleep every night plays an important role in the quality of our life, as well as our risk for neural cognitive decline.
Understanding Sleep Cycles
First things first, let’s dive into the basics of sleep cycles. Our sleep is divided into stages: light sleep, deep sleep and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Each cycle lasts about 90 minutes and repeats throughout the night. Interrupting these cycles can make you feel more tired than if you’d had less sleep, but completed a full cycle. Waking up at the end of a sleep cycle rather than in the middle can
make a big difference in how rested you feel. To help you wake up at an optimal time, you can use sleep apps or smart alarms, or even the sleep tracker on your smartwatch.
Routine is Absolutely Queen
Consistency is key when it comes to sleep. We’re really not meant to keep different sleep schedules as human beings, for example, falling asleep at 2 a.m. one night and 10 p.m. the next. Going to bed and waking up at the
same time every day, even on weekends, helps regulate your body’s internal clock. This regularity makes it easier for you to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed. Think of it as setting your body’s “sleep GPS” to ensure you get to your destination — a good night’s sleep — without any detours. Our brain is hardwired to crave consistency, to be able to expect what’s coming next by keeping our schedules consistent, by giving our brain that sense of normalcy allowing us to fall asleep faster into deeper sleep is more within our reach.
Create a Cozy Sleep Environment
Your bedroom should be a sleep sanctuary. Dr. Robbins suggests making your room dark, quiet and cool. Light-blocking curtains can keep out unwanted light. while white noise machines can mask disruptive sounds. Aim to keep your room at a comfortable temperature, around 65°F (18°C). Also, consider banning electronic devices from the bedroom; the blue light from screens can mess with your body’s melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
What you consume can significantly impact your sleep quality. Avoiding heavy meals, caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime is one small step that makes a huge difference in how great you’ll feel in the morning. Instead, opt for a light snack if you find yourself shopping in the pantry before bed. Regular physical activity is also a sleep booster, but timing is everything. Aim to finish your workout at least a few hours before bedtime to avoid the energizing effects that could keep you up.
Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
What is the average amount of time that it takes to fall asleep? And, how many hours of sleep per night is an ideal goal? It’s important to promote awareness about sleep routines. Oftentimes, we think that we just should be able to crawl into bed and flip our brains off like a switch. Wrong. Sleep is a process. Falling asleep actually takes time and more than a lot of people realize, even a healthy sleeper with no problems should take about 15 or 20 minutes to fall asleep.
Having a wind-down routine can do wonders for signaling to your body that it’s time to sleep. Engaging in calming activities like reading, taking a warm bath or practicing mindfulness meditation before bed. Think of this as your pre-sleep ritual — a series of relaxing activities that transition you from the busyness of the day to a state of tranquility.
Ideally, the goal is to give yourself a full nine hours of sleep per night.
Our biological need for sleep is individual. Some people do very well on seven and some people do much better on nine.
And, it is, in part, genetically kind of hardwired. Take a look backwards, did your parents have the tendency to sleep eight or nine hours or so on the reg? You may find that your daytime performance could be optimized by intentionally allowing yourself to sleep a bit longer as well!
Be Smart About Naps
Napping can be a double-edged sword. While a quick nap can recharge your batteries, long or late-afternoon naps can interfere with your nighttime sleep. Dr. Robbins suggests keeping naps short (about 20-30 minutes) and taking them earlier in the day to avoid disrupting your sleep schedule.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you’ve tried these strategies and still wake up tired, it might be time to consult a professional. Sleep disorders like sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome or insomnia can seriously impact your sleep quality. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider to identify and treat any underlying issues.
When A Little Nudge is Needed
Plexus SleepTM is a delicious dietary supplement gummy that helps to support a quality night’s sleep. That means it helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer while promoting restorative sleep and a healthy sleep cycle. Whether you want to cultivate healthy sleep patterns, or help combat occasional sleep disruptions from stress, travel, or other lifestyle factors, Sleep is the product that I personally use to feel refreshed and ready to take on the day. (Reach out to me via my contact info and I will connect you to the link to give Sleep a try!)
What’s in one Plexus Sleep gummy?
• 5 milligrams of melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain that helps regulate sleep and wake cycles and is involved in circadian rhythms.
• A unique tranquil blend that contains ashwagandha (an adaptogenic erb) alhong with GABA, lemon balm extract, and L-tryptophan, to complement your body’s natural sleep processes by supporting feelings of overall well-being.
• 1.7 grams of gut-healthy prebiotic fiber FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides)to feed beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract, helping the body balance the gut microbiome. Sleep is sugar-free, with no artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, and contains no dairy, gluten, or GMO ingredients.
Behavioral changes have been proven to beat insomnia and to outperform the insomnia drugs over and over and over again! Yes, you are designed to sleep, you can learn to sleep, and you can get the rest that you deserve and wake up energized. It begins with these
small, small changes.
Dr. Rebecca Robbins’ research offers a roadmap to better sleep and, ultimately, better health and well-being. So, why not start tonight?
Implement these tips and look forward to more vibrant, productive mornings ahead.
Sweet dreams!
(To read more about Dr. Robbins’ work in the arena of sleep, check out her website at https://www.rebecca-robbins.com/ )
You know, when you find something that changes your life ... you just can't keep it to yourself! So here I am, being a good friend and sharing about the things that have helped me become the BEST version of me!
INFORMATION: kellv.v.iones.7 kelly.v.jones/ ksvjonesQgmail.com
Normally, at this time of year, what comes to mind is a list of chores to be done. Let’s see. . .wash the curtains, get the carpets cleaned, schedule the window washer, bring out the lightweight linens, vacuum the car interior, wash the dog bed and a myriad of other TO DO’s. I’m sure you now have a list running through your head. SORRY! What’s on your list? Take a few minutes to think about your Spring routine. Is it something you dread, look forward to, makes you sing or do you just get through it all by rote? With a little thought and a little planning it can become a wonderful ritual that will free your time and your mind. Years ago, while reading my daily inspirational message by Sarah Ban Breathnach in her book, Simple Abundance — 365
Days to a Balanced and Joyful Life, I had a wonderful revelation that changed the way I thought about managing and caring for all of my “stuff!” One of the greatest things her book taught me was about cleaning out the clutter. It changed my life! Her recommendation was to first set aside some dedicated time to go through your things (closets, drawers, attics, under your bed, in the trunk, garage.. .). This is what I call true Spring Cleaning. Don’t try to tackle it all once. Make a plan. Choose different dates to give each room or area its needed attention. Her simple procedure was to quickly review each item and decide if it’s. . .
BEAUTIFUL, USEFUL or SENTIMENTAL:
Is the item beautiful, useful or sentimental-this is about as simple as you can make
it. Otherwise, you have to address that item in the future which adds to what you HAVE to do versus what you WANT to do. Free up more time for YOU! It not only declutters your space — it declutters your mind as well and makes it easier to store and get-to the things you need when you need them. Free up more time for YOU!
While I have done this Spring ritual for quite a few years now, its true rewards became more clear a little over a year ago. We were sorting, purging and packing to sell our house. During this time, I was on the mend from some illness and needed to rest a lot. So, when I had a bit of energy I would pick some cabinets, a closet or bookshelf to sort through for items I thought I wouldn’t need or want in the new house. I used the techniques from Sarah’s book Simple Abundance. . . and was amazed at how much I was able to either trash or give away to someone in need. It was quite liberating. And, I just kept thinking I wouldn’t have to manage these things anymore. Wow — talk about freeing up time and space. Now, I could easily find what I needed and
everything had a place. No more pulling things out to find what you need in the back of a cabinet or drawer and then having to put it all away again.
Believe it or not, circumstances changed and we were not able to sell the house as planned until just recently. I had to dig through a few boxes to get some winter clothes out and took some time to go through a few boxes that were labeled as ‘MISC’ or some other vague description. So, I downsized some more! I am SO ready now to move and know that all I have is all I need. Everything has a place and everything is in its place.
Spring Cleaning for the mind, heart and soul put my mind and soul at ease. It has freed up more time to just enjoy life instead of managing stuff!
Byline:
Esthetician, Volunteer, Customer Service Professional, Auntie/ Great Auntie, Sister, Grams, Flower
Lover, Clothes Horse, World Traveler, ‘All Things Positive promoter’, Better Half to my Better Half, Junior Leaguer,Disney Lover … and not necessarily in that order!
For questions and connecting, you can reach me via email: kris. krizman@icloud.com . I also have a weekly post on Instagram called ‘Words for Wednesday’ – sharing positive vibes. (kaknc)
The Struggles That give us life
By Ken Johnson, M.A., LPC Founder & CEO, East West Psychotherapy Associates Marietta, GA
The long, cold months of winter are beginning to give way to the warmer months of spring. With the lengthening days and warmer weather, new growth offers the hope of better days ahead. I love springtime. Springtime is a time of transformation, a time of change, and a time of new beginnings.
Spring encourages us to try something new. We shouldn’t settle for how things are. It’s time to work to improve—to be better than we were. We strive for something more. With anything worth having, there is always work involved. Change doesn’t come easily. Improvement takes inner strength. A caterpillar encases itself in a cocoon during the winter. In spring, the caterpillar struggles to free itself from the confines of the cocoon to become a beautiful moth.
There is a story of the wise teacher who walked with his pupil outside on a spring day. As they walked, they came upon a cocoon hanging from a tree branch. The moth struggled to free itself from the cocoon. As the two stood and watched the moth struggle to get out of the cocoon, the boy reached out to help the moth. He tore open the cocoon to make it easier for the moth to escape. The moth freed itself from the cocoon and fell to the ground and died.
The young boy was distraught. He turned to the wise teacher and asked, “Why did the
moth fall and die?” The wise teacher said, “When you opened the cocoon, you took away the struggle the moth needed to grow strong and cause its wings to open fully. This is best for the moth to be able to fly freely and live. The struggle gives the moth life. You took that away.”
What a lesson for us. It’s the struggle that gives us life. Our struggles make us strong. Our transformations take work and time and energy if we are ever going to succeed.
WHAT
A LESSON FOR US. IT'S THE STRUGGLE THAT GIVES US LIFE. OUR STRUGGLES MAKE US STRONG. OUR TRANSFORMATIONS TAKE WORK AND TIME AND ENERGY IF WE ARE EVER GOING TO SUCCEED.
As we enter this season of spring, I challenge each of us to consider what we may want to leave behind and what we may want to accomplish for the future. What do we want to improve? Are there goals we want to set? Consider how to reach these goals. What struggle will we have to go through to be successful? Will our struggle be physical, mental, educational or spiritual?
Plan now how you will reach these goals. Set your mind to the task and begin the work. The Chinese proverb tells us, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Will you step forward and start your journey? Will you begin your transformation? Will you start something new today?
Whatever you decide to do, don’t take the easy way out. As Robert Frost wrote, “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” Do the hard work. Enjoy the journey. Reap the harvest. No one ever says success wasn’t worth the effort put into it. Strengthen your wings as you struggle to succeed.
Let spring bloom in your heart and mind. May your efforts to grow strong give you wings to soar high and far in your journey through life.
Byline:
Ken Johnson, MA., LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. He is the founder of EastWest Psychotherapy Associates and has four therapists working with him. Ken has been in private practice for over twenty-five years working with children , adolescents, and adults to better understand the ir place in the world and God’s place in their lives. You can reach Ken at kjohnson@eastwestpsych.com or call no-770-500-0808.
Visit www.eastwestpsych.com
EMPOWERED
WHILE WAITING
I’VE
DEVELOPED A MORE REFINED SCREENING PROCESS TO IDENTIFY POTENTIAL CANDIDATES FOR MY PROGRAM.
WHAT I
DISCOVERED WAS THAT NOT EVERYONE ALIGNED WITH MY VISION, DESPITE MY WILLINGNESS TO HELP AND THE TOOLS AT MY DISPOSAL.
My journey of becoming an empowered woman looks slightly different from the typical ideology of “Women’s Empowerment”. I became empowered through embracing the ideas and building habits of success while on “standby.” You may have heard the saying “hurry up and wait”! This was exactly my process of becoming empowered.
I can recall my very first women’s empowerment event where I introduced myself, my passion, and my purpose as a businesswoman to an audience. I’ve been a businesswoman for a few decades, but this was different. Being a businesswoman and proud of my purpose and how business and I could impact myself, my community, and the world lit a fire inside me! My impact was different because starting with the emotional level is where clients and I were to have the greatest breakthrough leading to transformation. I was and I think we should consider ourselves as our first client.
As a woman of faith, I can say it has been sorely tested. I’ve had times of abundance and appreciation as well as lack, disappointment, and feeling invaluable as well as feeling my offerings were taken for granted. “Why does it seem like there is more emphasis and even more words to describe the negative impacts compared to the positive?” Because there is more emphasis on the less favorable, I’ve learned a few things.
If I continued to perceive the waiting period and for things to turn around as a time of agony and remain discouraged, I would not try again. In the meantime, I learned to research, learn, and share what I had at that time, as well as revise, and improvise as needed. I also learned while waiting that I had a strong foundation and as long as I didn’t give up, I wouldn’t be in a position of totally rebuilding, but enhancing. Each time I discovered an enhancement in a service, product, or skill, it was that
lighted flame that was ignited while I was waiting. Throughout the “stand by” period, I realized the importance of finding the correct audience before taking action. Releasing content prematurely to the wrong audience left me feeling undervalued. However, engaging with a new group in a unique setting completely transformed the outcome.
The results included acquiring new clients, generating income, forming partnerships, gaining knowledge, obtaining resources, experiencing growth, and
broadening audience and outreach. Waiting allows us the opportunity to reflect, reassess, and adjust our perceptions and viewpoints. Our perception is often influenced by our surroundings, making it somewhat biased. Our emotions towards waiting are shaped by past experiences or present situations. The perspective we adopt initially regarding our waiting period can accentuate the negative aspects, which, if not managed carefully, might impact our future
achievements or setbacks. No matter the shared experiences or paths we follow, there exists a mental and emotional connection that plays a crucial role in the development and growth of an entrepreneur.
I’ve developed a more refined screening process to identify potential candidates for my program. What I discovered was that not everyone aligned with my vision, despite my willingness to help and the tools at my disposal. It became clear that I needed to remain committed to each client, even during times when they struggled to engage with the process. I adopted a strategy of “waiting,” “reviewing,” and asking questions, meeting them where they were to help them progress without feeling disheartened. This approach of patience, assessment, and taking action at an appropriate level was equally beneficial for my own growth.
I have found that my most creative and productive moments occur when I am waiting, preparing, and enhancing my knowledge and understanding. By exploring my desire for comprehension regarding my strengths and motivations, I now grasp the significance of being empowered as well as the waiting period. Acknowledging the importance of patience results in increased empowerment. Realizing that progress doesn’t always happen instantly helps you develop patience, enabling me to be more attentive and encouraging in coaching sessions.
By embracing the waiting periods in your professional and personal life, you can transform them into opportunities for growth and insight, which will ultimately boost your effectiveness. An empowering effect of waiting is that creativity tends to thrive when we allow ideas to simmer. Giving ourselves time can create the mental room necessary for fresh and innovative ideas and solutions to surface, instead of rushing for instant outcomes.
Best,
Certified Health and Wellness Coach Freelance Writer cell 609-977-3477 111052 555 High St, Ste. 9 Mount Holly, NJ 008060 fitfamilitreends@gmail.com charlotte@wellwme.com www.payhip.com/wellnesswcharlotte
GET IN TOUCH with WHO YOU ARE:
Define Your Values
Values are simply what's most important to us. Values are the driver behind our work, our passions and our relationships. Here's why values discovery can be a powerful tool to get in touch with who you are.
Understanding and being aware of your values is one of the most foundational elements of living an authentic and fulfilling life. Our values are the guiding principles that shape our decisions, behavior and interactions with others. They act as an internal compass, helping us navigate life’s challenges, maintain balance and align our actions with what truly matters to us. Knowing what your values are can lead to a deeper sense of purpose, improved decision-making and stronger personal growth.
Clarifying Your Purpose
One of the primary reasons it’s essential to know your values is that they help clarify your purpose in life. When we understand our core values, it becomes easier to identify what we truly care about and want to achieve. Whether it’s the pursuit of personal success, fostering meaningful relationships or contributing to a cause
greater than ourselvesour values point us toward what brings us fulfillment. This clarity of purpose provides a foundation for setting goals that resonate with our true selves, rather than pursuing external expectations or fleeting trends.
Without a clear sense of what we value, it’s easy to get caught up in the noise of daily life, losing sight of what truly
matters. By aligning actions with values, individuals can avoid feeling disconnected or unfulfilled, leading to a more satisfying and intentional existence.
Empowering Decision-Making
Values act as a roadmap for making decisions in both personal and professional life. Every day, we face situations that require us to make choices, some of which may feel overwhelming or conflicting. When you have a solid understanding of your values, the decision-making process becomes simpler because you can filter options based on what aligns with your core principles.
For instance, someone who values honesty and integrity may find it easier to make tough decisions in the workplace, even when doing the right thing may be unpopular or risky. On the other hand, someone who values financial security above all else might prioritize career opportunities that offer greater stability. The ability to align choices with values reduces inner conflict and provides confidence in one’s actions, ultimately leading to a sense of satisfaction and peace of mind.
Building Authentic Relationships
Knowing your values is equally
essential in building authentic relationships with others. By being clear about what’s important to you, you’re better able to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar principles. This compatibility fosters deeper, more meaningful relationships where mutual respect and understanding can thrive.
Furthermore, understanding your values can help you establish boundaries in relationships. For example, if one of your values is selfrespect, you’re less likely to tolerate behavior that undermines your sense of worth. Having a solid foundation of values provides the emotional intelligence needed to cultivate healthy, respectful relationships with friends, family and colleagues.
Navigating Life’s Challenges
Life is full of challenges and uncertainties. Whether dealing with personal setbacks, career difficulties or relationship conflicts-knowing your values helps you stay grounded during times of hardship. When you face adversity, your values can serve as a source of resilience and
strength. For instance, if you value perseverance and hard work, you may be more determined to overcome obstacles despite temporary failures or setbacks.
In contrast, without a clear sense of values, it becomes easier to give in to frustration or confusion during tough times. Knowing that your actions are driven by your core values helps provide perspective, making challenges feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
All in All
Understanding and knowing your values is essential to living a life that feels both authentic and purposeful. Values provide clarity, empower decision-making, nurture meaningful relationships and help navigate challenges with resilience. By taking the time to reflect on what matters most to you, you can create a life that is grounded in integrity and aligned with your deepest aspirations, bringing greater fulfillment and peace of mind.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO IDENTIFY AND UNDERSTAND YOUR CORE VALUES? CONTACT CATHY AT COACHCATHVIOQMAIL. COM TODAY TO REQUEST A FREE VALUES ASSESSMENT EMAILED TO YOU.
By Cathy Johnson, Professional Life Coach
Cathy Johnson is a Certified Professional Life Coach and Founder of A New Season Coaching.
She is passionate about helping people find more purpose and fulfillment in life. Contact her to schedule a free consultation call at coachcathyj@gmail.com or at 770-500-0809 Visit www.anewseasoncoaching.com
A Celebration of Growth and Renewal
Jennifer Eichelberger
As we emerge from the chill of winter, the phrase “Winter is past” resonates deeply within us. It signifies not just the end of a season but the conclusion of challenging times that may have weighed heavily on our hearts. Just as nature sheds its frost and darkness, we too can let go of our burdens and embrace a brighter future. With “Rain is over and gone,” we are reminded that storms, whether literal or metaphorical, eventually pass. The clouds that once loomed overhead have parted, allowing sunlight to break through and illuminate our path forward. This transition invites us to reflect on our resilience; every drop of rain has nurtured growth within us.
As “Flowers appear on the earth,” we witness a magnificent transformation. These blooms symbolize hope, renewal, and the beauty that emerges after hardship. Each flower serves as a reminder that life can flourish even in unexpected places if we nurture it with care and patience.
Finally, when we declare “Time of singing has come,” it is an invitation to celebrate! The air fills with melodies of joy as we recognize that this is a season for gratitude and connection. Let us embrace this time to express ourselves fully—whether through laughter, art, or shared moments with loved ones— because it is in these celebrations that our spirits truly thrive.
So let’s step into this new season together, ready to welcome all the possibilities it holds!
Rev. Dr. Eichelberger is author of three books and has won numerous awards for her work in television production and in the community; most notably the Life Time Achievement Award signed by President Biden and Vice President Harris. She was also awarded a Humanitarian Award presented by Trinity International University of Ambassadors. Additionally she has been honored to do opening prayer for Rev. Jessie Jackson at Rainbow Coalition as well as working alongside Ambassador Andrew Young.
She enjoys writing, shopping when traveling to place like, New York, Paris, Istanbul and Israel. She also enjoys Broadway plays, music-jazz, classical as well as playing her flute.
ACTIVE BODY , SOUND MIND
Idiscipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should.
1 Corinthians 9:27
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7
Paul the Apostle writes of training the body and having a sound mind. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul writes of disciplining his body. He writes of running with purpose, seeking an eternal prize, and of finishing the race.
A body in motion stays in motion.
Physicist Isaac Newton discovered his first law of gravity over three centuries ago and that law applies to all objects and beings. Unless there is another force to stop the motion, the object keeps moving. Our bodies and minds are no exception. A wellness journey that includes an active lifestyle can lead to prolonged independence as you age. Most health care professionals would agree that some, regular form of movement is essential to maintaining or even improving the quality of life. Adding in physical activity if you can, will help with
mobility. So if you can’t run that marathon, try shuffling your feet, raising your arms, bending, stretching, or just moving from side to side. No matter your stage in life, do what you can to stay active.
Just as you would exercise your body to improve your physical health, you can also exercise your brain to improve your cognitive abilities and mental health.
Developing a sharp, active mind could be as challenging as solving a crossword puzzle or learning a new language. it could also be as simple as playing a memory match game or reading a book. Find enjoyable, mind strengthening activities that require you to think and recall information. With balanced routines that engage your body and your mind, you can create a lifestyle that leads to a boost in your overall health for years to come.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:7
By Line
Carlene Lewis Redmond is the managing director of Christian Mediation and Arbitration. She is also a registered neutral, mediator, and arbitrator recognized by the Supreme Court of Georgia’s Commission on Dispute Resolution.
Additionally, Carlene manages a court-based alternative dispute resolution unit.
She can be contacted at solvingdisputes@gmail.com.
SHELDON THE SUPER SLOTH
We recently had the pleasure of interviewing a very, gracious, gifted and talented new writer of children's books. Her name is Darby Lane. She's the author of the new book; "Sheldon The Super Sloth." Check out our interview below!
IYM: Tell us a little about yourself.
DL: I'm a 58-year-old lady that resides in N.J, with her Boyfriend, 2 cats, 2 fish, and many beautiful plants. I work at a wonderful special needs school in N.J as well. Working with special needs kids inspires me to write books that they can truly relate to.
IYM: What inspired you to write this book?
DL: Plenty of kids have disabilities. Whether it be physical, mental, or learning, I aim to write for them. I also write for kids to help them develop a sense of acceptance for these kids.
Darby Lane
IYM: Tell us about the main character.
DL: Sheldon is a very sl0000w Sloth. He always wanted to be a Superhero but was just too slow. One day he finally gets the opportunity he needs and truly proves that it's not strength that gives you superpowers, it is the power of kindness and true friendship.
IYM: What message do you want to convey through your book?
DL: That everyone has their own superpower! You don't have to have a body of steel, to be strong minded. Also being a great friend to all, no matter what differences they may have.
IYM: How do you want readers to feel after reading your book?
DL: I would love it if everyone could feel empowered, and love themselves for who they are, as well as accepting others.
IYM: What inspires you?
DL: Being an underdog myself, I get great joy by helping others overcome their challenges.
IYM: What's next for you?
DL: Honestly, I would like to be able to write full-time, and make it my personal goal to positively impact children's lives.
IYM: How can our readers contact you?
DL: dmdarbylane@gmail.com
Her book is also available on Amazon in Paperback and Kindle.
Sonya McIntosh
Creative, versatile, and passionate about her gift, Sonya is a master cosmetologist with over 20+ years of color and styling experience. She obtained her license at Dudley’s Cosmetology University, in Kernersville, North Carolina, and since then she has been navigating the world of beauty and hair.
Your Hair
Is Your Garden!
Think of your hair as an exquisite garden that's filled with plants and flowers! It must be nurtured to grow, bloom and blossom! Essential steps to achieving and maintaining a beautiful garden:
1. Replenish/Hydrate It!
Whether relaxed, permed, natural, curly, straight, or protective styles, hair must receive water (hydration treatments).
2. Nourish/Feed it!
Hair must be consistently fed. Start by cleansing the scalp with clarifying shampoo, followed by cleansing hair with moisturizing shampoo, and replenishing the moisture, by applying moisturizing conditioner. Nourish hair on a daily or weekly basis depending on hair texture.
3. Prune the weeds!
Weeds aka "split ends" suffocate new life and growth and should be removed every 6 to 8 weeks.
Healthy hair gives off energy; it speaks before you enter the room! May you be inspired and motivated to cultivate your garden! Your Hair Is Your Garden!
Sonya McIntosh' Bio:
Creative, versatile, and passionate about her gift, Sonya is a master cosmetologist with over 20+ years of color and styling experience. She obtained her license at Dudley's Cosmetology University, in Kernersville, North Carolina, and since then she has been navigating the world of beauty and hair.
Her contact Info: IG: @salondaisyatlanta
Email: sondaisy1@yahoo.com
While a native of Gainesville, Ga, Sonya has resided in Atlanta, Ga since 1998, where she is the proud owner/stylist of Salon Daisy. Committed to diversifying her experience portfolio, Sonya has also showcased her talents and skills in the television and film industry. Her latest projects/films were Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Fantasy Football (Movie), and Sweet Magnolia's (Series - Season 2), just to name a few. When she's not behind the chair, Sonya enjoys fashion styling, designing beaded jewelry, traveling, and spending time with family and close friends.
Her contact Info:1G: @salondaisyatlanta
Email: sonciaisyl@yahoo.com
Ideas Inspired Mother’s Day
All of us at Inspiring You Magazine, are excited to share some wonderful gift ideas for Mother's Day! Here they are in no particular order. Check them out, and then get busy!
• In a world of emails and text messages, there's nothing like a heartfelt, handwritten letter.
• Gift cards can seem a bit impersonal at times. However, not if it's to her favorite store, streaming service so she can watch her favorite shows, etc.
• Create a collection of all of your favorite childhood memories. Things that neither of you will ever forget!
• If funds are low, get creative with a coupon book. Have a coupon for things you can do for her that she can redeem throughout the year. Simple things like doing the dishes, a manicure, do the grocery shopping, mow the lawn if it applies, spending a designated amount of time with her 'just because.'
• If she's into self care get her a basket or a book that will help her reach her goals. We recommend a wonderful book on self care by author Jennifer Stovall Eichelberger. "Self Care, The Virtual Art of Nurturing You." It's available on her website: www.jennifereichelberger.com as well as on Amazon.
• If she loves to cook, create a book of her recipes. Have other family members share their favorite recipes of hers as well.
• Maybe a Subscription Box of her favorite things.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Have fun and Happy Mother's Day!
There's more to Spring cleaning than reorganizing your closet, cleaning out the garage, dusting, rearranging your living space, and new curtains. Lets think about the other areas of our lives that can also get a little cluttered! Life can weigh us down sometime and the heaviness can dim your light in ways you don't realize that it's happening. So, in addition to all of the ways you prepare for the beauty of a new season; here are a few new ways that just might become habit. You up for it? Let's see!
Spring Clean your way of eating-Try to incorporate all the fresh produce this season brings. Have your fill of berries, asparagus, peas and leafy greens into your meals for a healthy vibrant diet. Here's a fun way to think about it. Eat all of the colors of the rainbow. Hydration is everything! As temperatures rise, make sure to drink more water to stay hydrated and refreshed.
Spring Clean your mental health-We've all been waiting for longer, sunny days. Now that they're here get outside and really enjoy it. Exposure to sunlight can
improve your mood and give you more energy. Be mindful, be present, this is a time of renewal. Focus on mental clarity and self care. Take a deep breath for real, and then do it again and again.
Spring Clean your exercise routineSpend more time outdoors, take an outdoor fitness class, try a yoga class. Do something that is so much fun that you forget you're exercising, go roller skating. There's no better time than right now to try something new. Starting a garden is easier than you think; no matter how much space you have. Stay energized, have fun, laugh a lot, enjoy hosting barbecues, picnics, and outdoor dinner parties. Surround yourself with the people you love and that love you right back. Make new friends, be thankful and yes...Get Your Spring On!
What Inspires You?
Work Your Dash Off!
We’ve all seen one, stood at a graveside and passed a cemetery. Maybe it’s real personal for you. Perhaps you lost a loved one, a best friend. Let’s take it a step further. Think about all of the eulogies you’ve heard, how many memorial services you’ve been a part of. At every one of these events, we hear about that person’s dash. It’s called a eulogy! Clarity is a beautiful thing, with that in mind, here’s what I mean by DASH. When you look at a tombstone or other marker, the dash is the line you see between the dates of a person’s birth and death.
That person didn’t know when they’d be born, or when they’d die. However, here’s the deal, they were in total control of and owned their dash. The good, the bad, the painful, the joyous, the exciting, the happy, the ugly. In essence, they wrote their own eulogy by how they lived their life!
Hear my heart on this. I’m in no way referring to or talking about the awful things that’s happened to people that were totally out of their control. Things like abuse (physical, emotional, etc.), life happens and it’s not always pretty. Nevertheless, what I am talking about are all of the things that we can control, which is way more than you think. The times we settle for less both personally and professionally. All of the times and ways that we allow others to devalue our very being.
It’s time to own your DASH. To go for the things that are important to you, the dreams you have, and the gifts you’ve been given. It’s okay to take care of you, and to just go for it.
I’m writing my eulogy every day, and so are you. We can decide, and yes control, what will be said about us when we’re gone. So, honey, I’m working my DASH off! What will YOUR dash say about you?
Smooches!
