May 25 2008 by Karen.

Just for today . . . I will choose and display the right attitude.

Just for today . . . I will determine and act on important priorities.

Just for today . . . I will know and follow healthy guidelines.

Just for today . . . I will communicate with and care for my family.

Just for today . . . I will practice and develop good thinking.

Just for today . . . I will make and keep proper commitments.

Just for today . . . I will earn and properly manage finances.

Just for today . . . I will deepen and live out my faith.

Just for today . . . I will initiate and invest in solid relationships.

Just for today . . . I will plan for and model generosity.

Just for today . . . I will embrace and practice good values.

Just for today . . . I will seek and experience improvements.

Just for today . . . I will act on these decisions and practice these disciplines, and

Then one day . . . I will see the compounding results of a day lived well.

Source: John Maxwell, Today Matters

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May 10 2008 by Karen.

Did you know that you talk more to yourself than to anyone else in the world? In the face of challenging situations (and we all have our share), the words you choose for that conversation with yourself will directly impact how long you will find yourself in those situations. Use your words to change your situation, not to describe it. The moment you speak something – good or bad – you give birth to it as an idea, an expectation, a desire. You have planted the seed that will, sooner or later, grow into the results you will reap.

When you’re feeling somewhat down-spirited, don’t tell people how you feel, tell them how you want to feel. By controlling what you say and how you say it - using positive words with enthusiasm - you help to change your physical and mental state. As George W. Crane said, “Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you act.”

Most people enjoy working and living with people who live and work with a positive, upbeat attitude. Tell people how you want to feel and it won’t be long before you do. So, the next time you are feeling gloomy and a friend asks you how you are doing….talk yourself up!

Source: Dr. Lee Colan, Talk Yourself Up

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May 9 2008 by Karen.

Kids are always growing, mentally and physically. Did you know that how kids think about their own growth, and how they view their talents and intelligence is important?

A recent Stanford study by cognitive psychology researcher, Dr. Carol Dweck, found that praise can make a significant impact on a child’s academic performance. Here’s the catch though: praise for a child’s “smarts” actually reduced their performance levels, while praise for their efforts appeared to increase the kids’ appetite for challenge and practice, and thus, their performance levels increased!

So remember to always praise your kids, but more importantly praise them for their efforts as this will actually increase their potential to succeed! If you’re interested in learning more, search for the topic “growth mindset.”

Source: K12 The xPotential (Spring 2008)

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May 9 2008 by Karen.

Welcome to Contemplation!

A place where you will hear and discuss all things mental health. Great knowledge and wisdom is not needed, although much appreciated. Humor and wit is also highly valued.

We hope you will be inspired, refreshed, uplifted, and motivated as you “contemplate” and reflect.

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