Small Steps, Great Transformations
Hello! Warm wishes to you on this beautiful autumn day. I hope you’re finding moments of joy and comfort as the seasons change. Isn’t it incredible how quickly it gets dark in November? With its steaming mugs of rich hot chocolate and spiced chai, hearty bowls of comforting soups, and the soft glow of twinkling lights, this season transforms our everyday moments into something truly magical.
I feel a deep connection to myself during this time, especially since my birthday is in September. The vibrant colors, comforting scents, and cherished fall and winter traditions evoke some of my fondest childhood memories. Even with humble beginnings and unbelievable life challenges, we always found ways to make this time of year unforgettable.
As the holidays approach, my girls and I always feel inspired to explore new creative techniques for crafting heartfelt homemade gifts that reflect our love and appreciation for others. Whether concocting magic skin food potions from natural herbs, baking a favorite treat, or creating a personalized photo album, each gift carries a piece of our heart.
I am inspired to warmly welcome visitors into our home. With fragrant candles, festive decorations, and comforting meals, I strive to create an inviting atmosphere that nurtures connection and joy, making everyone feel special during their visit.
I find great purpose in creating and serving, believing we can receive profound wisdom and guidance through service. This guidance also encourages us to cultivate fulfillment by sharing uplifting words with others. Instead of acting out of obligation, we can connect authentically, sharing our support and appreciation from the heart. This approach enhances our relationships and fosters a supportive community.
With that in mind, I don't want to forget to find calm amidst the holiday hustle. Creating a slower holiday season is possible and can be a transformative experience with intention. Stay tuned for more on Slow Holidays next month.
Words Have Great Power
Today, I want to emphasize the incredible power of our words to create meaningful change. I have noticed how my vocabulary influences my attitude. Words can certainly affect others and also impact us too.
In his letter to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul reminds us not to allow “any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what helps build others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29, NIV)
Our speech should express our fundamental beliefs and reflect our gratitude and grace toward ourselves and others. By choosing our words carefully, we can embody a sense of presence and provide guidance, fostering a positive environment and encouraging meaningful connections inwardly and outwardly.
The phrase “I have to do it” shows a sense of duty and responsibility. While it’s important to be responsible, we often say this with a sigh, making it sound like a burden. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed or like a victim of our obligations. When we think this way, we can damage our creativity, job performance, and relationships.
In contrast, “I get to do it” highlights a sense of privilege and opportunity. This phrase suggests that we view our tasks as gifts rather than burdens. It encourages us to be grateful for the chance to engage in our responsibilities, no matter how simple.
Shifting from “have to” to “get to” may seem small, but it has significantly changed my attitude. Thinking of my responsibilities as privileges motivate and engage me. I consciously try to use this positive language whenever possible, improving my daily experiences and interactions.
I don’t have to work out this morning; I get to work out. What a privilege to be healthy and be able to care for my body.
I don’t have to write a new blog post—I get to write one. What a privilege to have readers who actually care about what I have to say.
I don’t have to meet with my mentoring group; I get to. What a privilege to meet with other women who want to learn and grow.
I don’t have to go to church today; I get to go to church. What a privilege to belong to a church where I can worship God and where I have such good friends.
I don’t have to stop by the grocery store on my way home; I get to stop by the grocery store. What a privilege to live in a place and at a time where we don’t have to forage for food.
You can make this shift, too. Here are three simple steps:
Pay attention to your words. This is similar to the difference between trying and doing. The first step is to notice the words you use. Sometimes, we speak without thinking. We may say things simply out of habit.
Start using get to rather than have to. Breaking habits can be challenging. It may take some practice and persistence. You don’t need to obsess over it but start using language that reflects privilege instead of obligation.
Notice how this can change your attitude. It can help you feel grateful. Instead of dreading or resenting a task, you can learn to appreciate it. When we express gratitude, we feel better and perform better. This mindset can give you advantages, especially at work.
Ultimately, how we communicate can uplift spirits, inspire change, and create a ripple effect of kindness inside ourselves and the world around us.
As we journey through our daily lives, let us embrace the wisdom guiding our choices, encouraging us to select our words carefully and intentionally. May we wield our expressions like instruments of love and grace, allowing them to resonate with positivity and encouragement. In this way, we have the power to touch hearts and inspire a ripple effect, fostering faith, hope, and compassion in the world that surrounds us. Together, we can cultivate an atmosphere where kindness flourishes, and the human spirit thrives.
Much love and inSpiration!
