Valentine’s Day – What about the other 364 days of the year?

Hi Hello!!

Love is in the air, and this February, my newsletter is infused with it! 💖 Let's dive into the essence of love beyond the confines of a single day. Remember that thought-provoking blog post from a few years back, "Valentine's Day - What About the Other 364 Days a Year"? We're revisiting its timeless wisdom as we explore ways to show ourselves love every day. Plus, let's debunk the myth of New Year's resolutions and discover sustainable practices for personal growth. Get ready for a journey of self-love, reflection, and empowerment. Here's to a month filled with love that lasts well beyond Valentine's Day! 

Valentine’s Day – What about the other 364 days of the year?

Reflecting on February 13, 2020, I penned a blog that continues to resonate with me even today. Its significance is profound, prompting me to share it annually as a powerful reminder that love is far too expansive to confine to a solitary day.

"As I sit in Starbucks this Valentine’s Day morning and begin to write this blog for the 100th time, I keep pausing because this day has so many meanings depending on where you are in your life. I wanted to choose my words carefully as writing about “Love” can create a lot of emotion for people, but I am going to be me and put my words on paper.

My feelings about Valentine’s Day has changed over the years. I have spent a lot of time this month thinking about love, writing about love, talking to people about love, working with my clients on relationships, and observing all types of love around me."

Click on the button below and join me in revisiting the full blog post. 

Embracing Self-Love Year-Round: Practical Tips for a Lifelong Journey

In a world that often emphasizes the significance of love shared with others, it's essential not to overlook the most crucial relationship of all—the one you have with yourself. While February may be dubbed the month of love, cultivating self-love is a year-round endeavor. Let's explore practical tips that can guide you on a journey of self-love, ensuring that it becomes a constant companion in every season of life.

1. Practice Self-Compassion:

Begin by treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend facing challenges. Acknowledge that nobody is perfect, and it's okay to have flaws and setbacks. Embrace self-compassion as a foundation for building a strong connection with yourself.

2. Set Boundaries:

Learn to recognize and set healthy boundaries in various aspects of your life. This includes relationships, work, and personal time. Establishing clear boundaries communicates self-respect and ensures that you prioritize your well-being.

3. Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small:

Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, regardless of their size. Whether it's completing a project at work, sticking to a fitness routine, or simply getting through a challenging day, each accomplishment contributes to your growth and deserves recognition.

4. Nurture Your Passions:

Identify activities and hobbies that bring you joy and a sense of fulfillment. Allocate time in your schedule to engage in these pursuits regularly. Whether it's painting, hiking, writing, or any other passion, investing time in what you love fosters a positive relationship with yourself.

5. Prioritize Self-Care:

Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. This includes adequate sleep, healthy eating, regular exercise, and moments of relaxation. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is a tangible expression of self-love.

6. Challenge Negative Self-Talk:

Pay attention to your inner dialogue and challenge negative thoughts. Replace self-critical statements with affirmations that emphasize your strengths and potential. Cultivating a positive mindset is a powerful tool in fostering self-love.

7. Seek Support When Needed:

Understand that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether from friends, family, or a professional, reaching out when you need assistance or guidance is an important aspect of caring for yourself.

Loving yourself is not a one-time event; it's an ongoing, dynamic process that deserves attention throughout the year. By incorporating these tips into your daily life, you can build a foundation of self-love that withstands the tests of time. Remember, you are deserving of the love and care you extend to others. Embrace the journey of self-love, and let it be a constant companion on your path to personal growth and fulfillment.

Beyond Resolutions: Crafting Your Vision for 2024 with Lasting Impact

Let's dive into the resolution game - did you know that by February, a whopping 80% of folks have thrown in the towel on their New Year's resolutions? But fear not, we're all in this together! Instead of setting ourselves up for a yearly cycle of disappointment, let's pivot and focus on strategies that actually stick. Let's delve into the pitfalls of resolutions and explore actionable tips to help you craft a vision that stands the test of time in 2024.

1. Resolutions vs. Intentions:

Resolutions often fail because they tend to be rigid and focused on outcomes rather than the journey. Shift the mindset from resolutions to intentions—a more flexible approach that emphasizes the process, allowing for growth and adaptation along the way.

2. Define Your Why:

Instead of setting generic goals, dig deep into the reasons behind your aspirations. Define the "why" that fuels your vision for 2024. Connecting with your motivations provides a strong foundation and helps sustain momentum throughout the year.

3. Create a Vision Board:

Visualization is a powerful tool for manifesting your desires. Craft a vision board that encapsulates your goals, dreams, and the feelings associated with achieving them. Place it somewhere visible to serve as a daily reminder of your aspirations.

4. Set Realistic and Actionable Goals:

Break down your vision into realistic and actionable goals. Establish a step-by-step plan that allows you to make consistent progress. Setting achievable milestones creates a sense of accomplishment and motivates you to stay on track.

5. Focus on Habits:

Rather than fixating on specific outcomes, shift your focus to building positive habits. Identify habits that align with your vision and work towards integrating them into your daily routine. Consistent habits lead to lasting transformation.

6. Embrace Adaptability:

Life is dynamic, and unexpected challenges may arise. Instead of abandoning your vision when faced with obstacles, embrace adaptability. Be open to adjusting your approach while staying true to the core values and aspirations driving your vision.

7. Accountability Partnerships:

Share your vision with trusted friends, family, or colleagues who can offer support and encouragement. Accountability partnerships create a sense of shared commitment and provide valuable perspectives on your journey.

8. Reflect and Celebrate Progress:

Regularly reflect on your journey and celebrate the progress you've made. Acknowledge the small victories and learn from setbacks. Reflection fosters self-awareness and keeps you connected to the purpose behind your vision.

Bid farewell to the cycle of broken resolutions and welcome a transformative approach to envisioning your 2024. By embracing intentions, defining your "why," and cultivating adaptable habits, you can create a vision that aligns with your authentic self. Let this year be a journey of growth, resilience, and fulfillment, where your vision becomes a dynamic reality rather than a fleeting resolution. 

Recap of 2024's Bowl Burning Ceremony and Vision Board Workshop

In the early days of 2024, my community came together for two transformative events that set the tone for a year of growth, introspection, and goal-setting. On January 6, we ignited a powerful process of letting go during the Bowl Burning Ceremony. Participants symbolically released the past, making room for new beginnings as they watched their written intentions turn to ash. Fast forward to January 16, where creativity and vision took center stage in my Vision Board Workshop. Attendees immersed themselves in a journey of self-discovery, crafting visual representations of their aspirations for the year ahead. These events not only marked significant moments in our collective journey but also laid the foundation for a year of purposeful living and intentional growth. Stay tuned for more empowering experiences as we continue to navigate the path of self-discovery together in 2024!

Stay in the loop by following me on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates, additional classes, and inspiring insights. Let's make 2024 a year of growth, connection, and living our visions to the fullest! 🌈🌟

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month 2024

February is not just about roses and chocolates; it's a time to shine a light on a critical issue that often hides in the shadows—Teen Dating Violence. As we observe Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) let's delve into this important conversation, raise awareness, and work together to foster healthy relationships.

Understanding Teen Dating Violence:

Teen Dating Violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals of all backgrounds. It encompasses physical, emotional, or verbal abuse within a dating relationship, and its impact can be profound, shaping the lives of young individuals. Dating violence is more common than you may think, especially among teens and young adults: 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults. And nearly half (43%) of U.S. college women report experiencing violent or abusive dating behaviors.

The Importance of Awareness:

Education is a powerful tool in the fight against Teen Dating Violence. By understanding the signs and red flags, we empower young people to recognize and address unhealthy relationship dynamics. Awareness campaigns aim to break the silence surrounding this issue, creating a safe space for open conversations.

Building Healthy Relationships:

Promoting healthy relationships is crucial for preventing Teen Dating Violence. Encouraging communication, respect, and consent sets the foundation for positive interactions. By fostering emotional intelligence and empathy, we equip young individuals with the skills needed to navigate relationships in a healthy and respectful manner.

Empowering Teens to Speak Up:

Teenagers need to know that their voices matter. Encouraging an environment where they feel safe to speak up about their experiences or concerns is essential. Schools, communities, and families play pivotal roles in providing support and resources for those affected by Teen Dating Violence.

Resources for Help:

In every community, there are organizations dedicated to supporting individuals facing Teen Dating Violence. These resources offer counseling, guidance, and a safe haven for those who need assistance. By promoting access to these services, we can ensure that help is readily available for those in need. I have listed resources on my website: Resource Tab

Using Social Media for Advocacy:

In the digital age, social media serves as a powerful platform for advocacy. Utilize hashtags like #TDVAM2024 & #TDVAM to contribute to the online conversation. Share informative posts, resources, and stories to reach a broader audience and create a collective impact.

Moving Forward Together:

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is a call to action. By joining forces, we can break the cycle of violence and create a future where every young person can engage in relationships that are built on trust, respect, and love. Let's work hand in hand to empower the next generation and foster a world free from teen dating violence.

As we wrap up this February edition, let's carry forward the warmth of self-love into the upcoming months. Nurturing the relationship with oneself is not confined to a single month; it's a continuous and transformative journey. In the midst of life's hustle, take a moment to prioritize your well-being and embrace the love that resides within. Remember, self-love is not a fleeting emotion but a steadfast companion that accompanies you through every season. Let this be a reminder to invest in the most important relationship you'll ever have—the one with yourself. Here's to a future filled with self-discovery, growth, and an unwavering commitment to your own happiness.

Until Next Time,

Chris

425-445-1883

chris@livinthevisions.com 

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