Mirror, mirror what do I see?

Most of us see a distorted view of ourselves which is normally based upon our life experiences, our emotions attached to those experiences as well as the needs and wants that haven’t been yet met.  Taking some time to clarify your vision makes sense and that does not mean looking back at the past but rather pressing yourself to take stock of the present and dream of the future.  Yes, dream.  It’s okay to envision the big picture!

Ask yourself what you want from your future and identify what a completely fulfilled life would look like.  What is the inspiration or motivator for your vision?

Check out www.whatsyour720.com and see what other people have to say about what their idea of a successful life looks like. Matthew 7:20  “You will be recognized by your good fruit”.

As a new year begins and as new resolutions are made, how many of us will really keep our commitments? Work-life balance is a topic that continues to dominate the life of many working professionals.

Does life seem to fly by faster and faster or is it just that our choices are increasing and we want it all now?

Matthew 7:20 says that, “You will be recognized by your good fruit.” Simple, but so true.

I truly believe that if you are pursuing things in your life that you love, you will be fulfilled and happy, and in turn, you will attract others around you that are seeking the same.

As you take time to dream about what the potential is for your year ahead, consider the following:

• Take a moment to review your life (What do you like about it? What don’t you like about it?)
• Clarify what you want and where you want to be by identifying what’s truly important to you.

In doing this simple, yet not so simple exercise, you may uncover some realizations and decisions that make sense to you. The next part is simple:

TAKE ACTION!

You have the gift of 365 days this year. Go and pursue each day with the greatest of intention and you will be amazed at what unfolds.

Wishing you a wonderful 2011,

Paula

Paula Morand is a dedicated wife, mother and lover of life.  She is the Founder and CEO of JumpStart 720, an award winning leadership coaching company that is committed to powering life by engaging individuals, companies and communities to more intentional living.  For more information:  www.jumpstart720.com

Never in my life and in my travels have I met hundreds of children at one time who wanted nothing but an opportunity to smile with you.

In May of 2009, I joined an incredible team of seven strangers and we set out as an International Relief Team on a Mission to Liberia, Africa with Samaritan’s Purse Canada. The goal of the trip was to view many capacity building projects in the country as it continues to rebuild after years of strife and civil war. We arrived just before raining season was about to set in and spent most of our time in Foya District near the border of Sierra Leone and Guinea.

I am amazed and humbled by the level of joy and appreciation that I felt from the hundreds of people that we were able to spend time with but much of my admiration was directed to the incredible women of Africa. The ones that work tirelessly day in and day out to provide food for their family, tend to their children and are willing to walk for miles (and for some hours) for an opportunity to learn to read and write. To the women of Africa, I salute you and look forward to seeing you again real soon.