Hey friends,
I recently received a message on Instagram asking about my seemingly boundless joy for life and persistent energy. Well, let me assure you, my life isn't a fairy tale. It's filled with ups, downs, and everything in between… just like yours. 50/50 is what I always say.  But hey, that's what makes it interesting, right?
Let's start with a reality check. I'm not bouncing off the walls with joy every single moment, and I definitely don't wake up with boundless energy. I recently lost my beloved Mom and I promise you that my energy has been at a all time low. Feeling sad or angry is part and parcel of the human experience, and there's no shame in embracing those emotions. Life's a rollercoaster ride of stress, mess, and beauty, all intertwined. And guess what? We need to remember, that it’s all a gift.
Now, onto the nitty-gritty of my daily routine. These are more like a cocktail of habits that I've cultivated over time. I refer to it as my Toolkit for well-being. Here's a sneak peek into what keeps me going:
Prayer & Gratitude Journaling:  Every morning, I begin my day with prayer, expressing gratitude for five specific things I'm grateful for. This simple act sets a positive tone for the day ahead and helps shape my mindset.  I also have a dedicated list of people whom I pray for daily.. Prayer serves as my anchor providing me with quiet reflection to connect with God.. It’s during this time that I also choose five emotions for the day, setting intentions for how I want to show up in the world. Whether it's a heartfelt plea or a moment of gratitude, connecting with God centers me and fuels my soul.
Random Acts of Kindness: Engaging in random acts of kindness, whether it's showering those I love or complete strangers with thoughtful gestures, fills everyone's soul. There's a unique joy that comes from spreading love and positivity wherever you go. It’s really a gift to yourself.
Healthy Habits: Nourishing my body with healthy food and plenty of water is essential. Exercise is non-negotiable—it's my daily therapy session, a chance to sweat out stress and reclaim my strength.  Taking a walk with my pup Champ can totally shift my energy and state of mind.
Family Time: Cherishing every moment with my loved ones, soaking up their love and laughter, is precious to me. I also make an effort to spend alone time with each of them, , so I can better understand how to support and love them. I don’t always get it right, but I want to be remembered as always making that effort to connect.
Nature and Unplugging: And when the going gets tough, I step outside and marvel at the beauty of the world around me. Nature has a way of grounding me and reminding me of life's simple joys.
Oh, and did I mention unplugging? It's a game-changer. Putting away my devices and immersing myself in the present moment? Pure bliss. This is a must for everyone.
Self-Love and Mindset: Embracing my flaws and working on becoming the best version of myself, inside and out, is crucial. But the real secret sauce? Mindset. Choosing to focus on the good, even when life throws curveballs my way, is key.
There's a beautiful children's song by the Canadian artist Rafi called 'All I Really Need.' Its lyrics, 'All I really need is a song in my heart, food in my belly, and love in my family,' encapsulate the essence of what truly matters in life, don't you think?
Remember, you're in the driver's seat of your life. No excuses, no blaming others. You have the power to create the life you want. So, if you're feeling stuck or unhappy, remember this: change begins with you. Small, consistent efforts add up over time, leading to a life filled with joy and purpose.
And hey, when in doubt, spread a little kindness. It's like a boomerang; what you put out into the world comes back to you tenfold.
Alright, dear friends, that's a wrap!
Happiness is a journey, not a destination. So, decide to buckle up and enjoy the ride. We only have this one precious life—let's make it count.
Reach out if you need some help… it would be my honor to be your guide.
Xx
Leighanne
