World of Writer Mom

Saturday, August 20, 2022

Taking Care of Yourself Series - Part I

Water - The benefits of soaking in peace

By: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

This article sponsored by: EMPAVA Appliances

We are often sucked into a never-ending vortex of busyness that leaves little to no time for rest and healing. We push through pain. We ignore symptoms. We disregard the schedule that begs for us to make that appointment to figure out where things went sideways. We put our personal need for rest and recovery on hold, often waiting like someone hoping for human contact when we make a phone call to resolve a customer service concern. The consequences of neglecting our personal wellness includes decreased physical, mental, and emotional health. Take a moment to stop and consider how this is impacting your quality of life.

No matter how long you try to reject the increasing symptoms, you inevitably have a reckoning day. Perhaps your body rebels to the point you end up with a debilitating illness. Maybe you require a trip to the emergency room to treat "sudden" onset of fever and pain. Your body will be required to confront its lack of self care. Humans are not created to endure on-going, chronic conditions, without some type of consequences. Your need to work past the point of pain to meet financial and family responsibilities will catch up with you. Guess what? You are now facing the collateral damage of habitually "working through" the cues your body has been screaming. Take a deep breath. It's time to reconcile the pain and develop a plan to heal.

Strategies for overcoming pain and exhaustion:

1. Dedicate a time to schedule those appointments you have been avoiding. It needs to happen! Invest the time and resources necessary to become healthier and create a plan of care with your medical provider.

2. Find out what resources are offered by your employer and work with Occupational Health, Employee Assistance Programs, and your supervisor to ensure you have a team on your side. A healthy employee who is supported will be worth a company's investment. A supported employee is one who will be a loyal team member who can assist others going through hard times too. Any employer unwilling to see this benefit creates unhealthy situations, and will result in staff retention challenges.

3. Document your journey toward a healthier self. Work with your medical team to ensure follow up and compliance with the plan of care. Press your "reset" button and visualize a healthier self.

4. Think about ways to enhance your living situation and environment. Identify what makes your body feel healthy. How can you incorporate Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) into your wellness plan?

5. List ways your can "reward" your body for completion of wellness goals. For example: Where do you feel at peace? What does peace look like for you? Write down some strategies that will support this reward.

Real life application of strategies:

One of my favorite strategies includes water. My "peaceful environment" includes visualizing the ocean, a beach cottage, and my favorite items to include in the beach cottage. To simulate this at home, I consider how to create my own oasis. Special lighting, a scented candle, soft textured towels, aromatherapy, moisturizing lotion, and a bathtub for soaking are perfect ways to provide self-care. Soaking in peace gives your body time to regulate, relax, and heal. (Disclaimer: Make sure your check with your medical provider regarding any contraindications that would prevent you from using this technique.)

Invest in yourself and encourage your family to do the same. Our children learn the most through our example. Teach them how to be compassionate toward others, but also teach them to be compassionate toward themselves. Let's remove the guilt that often results in ignoring the symptoms of burn-out, physical pain, and emotional neglect.

Wishing you good health, happiness, balance, and peace.

Thanks for taking time to read this blog.

You are appreciated!

Wishing all of you many adventures,
solutions to your challenges,
answers to your prayers,
& resources to help you survive
all of your collaborative projects!

(And... a good dose of ranting to release the stress once in a while)
Kindest Wishes,
~ Mary

Other networking opportunities:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MamasMarketforMillenials

https://www.facebook.com/writermomadvocate/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MARYSTEA

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Disclaimer
World of Writer Mom.org is part of an affiliate program. This means that if you make a purchase through the links I promote on this site or on its related social media platforms, I may earn a small commission from that action to support World of Writer Mom.org
Important: You will NOT be charged more when buying products through my link.
I enjoy taking time to research products that look interesting and may provide helpful resources to you and your family. The opinions, knowledge, and experiences I write about are my own. Real Life Awareness: Recommendations do not imply liability, responsibility for disappointments or failed expectations, or regret over budgeting woes. I trust each reader to use their own good judgment when it comes to knowing what will work best for you and your family. (Because...well...I am not the ultimate decision maker, judge, or source of approval for anyone except myself...and my children...until they are legally allowed to represent themselves.)
Thank You for taking time to read, participate, and share your adventures with me. Hopefully, we'll find something to occasionally purchase, enjoy, and use in an effort to create a special moment. Privacy: This blog does not share personal information with third parties, nor do we store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at any time by changing your specific browser settings. We are not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without our permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on October 15, 2020. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly here at: worldofwritermom@outlook.com

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

CONTENTMENT - Eleven Points

This post sponsored by

CONTENTMENT - ELEVEN POINTS

by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

Contentment may not be as simple as we'd like. Searching for it, longing for it, dreaming about it, and hoping to find it continues to be a life-long treasure hunt for many. Although circumstances often create roadblocks to our contentment, there are a few coping strategies we can consider along the way. Contentment is a dynamic condition, and one that is worth pursuing. Here are a few ideas to get you started. I look forward to hearing your ideas too. Let me know where you are in your adventures and shout out a few of your own resources here.

Choices - It helps to consider more than one way to reach your goals. Often, we box ourselves into a one and done method. Give yourself permission to release yourself from this limitation. Choices open our eyes to new possibilities. Work, relationships, and financial matters can be linked to our choices.

Opportunities - Find moments to expand your circle of resources, get out of your comfort zone to network with others, research new careers, and sign up to learn something new. If we stay "stuck" in our current position, we risk losing our flexibility for change. It's easy to remain in what becomes familiar long after it is healthy for us, simply because we are afraid to move forward. Change can be difficult for many of us. Practice seeking out other opportunities to enhance your experiences in life.

Numerous adventures - Adventures do not need to be elaborate, expensive, or intense to be meaningful. An adventure can be learning something new, going on a hike, exploring a section of town you've never seen, or planning a short road trip. Adventures offer a range of experiences that can enhance your feeling of connection to family and friends. They can even provide a way for you to enjoy time to yourself. Getting away from your typical schedule or routine can boost your brain and recharge your energy. For anyone who has anxiety when veering too far off a routine, you might choose to have some quiet time. Your adventure is whatever you need on your way to contentment.

Tenacious decisions - When faced with serious circumstances, life-altering situations, and season-of-life desires for change, remember that perseverance and consistency create the path toward our goals. Research your resources, write down your strategies, and evaluate your progress. Make those tenacious decisions! Expect to be nervous and scared. Change, even good change, is hard and uncomfortable. Lean into that discomfort and keep moving. It is within these moments of change that we begin to find contentment.

Encouragement - It can be difficult if not impossible to infuse yourself with inspiration. Sometimes we struggle to find the motivation, strength, and endurance required to push forward. This is when you find your team of individuals who add positive energy, uplift your spirit, and emotionally support your plan of action. If you find that someone is pulling you down with all the reasons "that can't work", it's time to reduce your contact with them and recognize they are one of the reasons we sabotage ourselves. Encouragement can come from many sources. Find what works for you.

Nourishment - Commit to healthy food, drink, and physical movement. Start with small changes and remain consistent. When we are accustomed to doing things a certain way for a long period of time, rewiring our brains to do something different takes time. Give yourself grace on the days when you feel discouraged. Keep working toward your goals and schedule reminders throughout the day to inspire follow through.

Tranquility - Find moments throughout your day to breathe, release tension, and be at peace. This is often one of the most difficult tasks to accomplish. We are all so busy and often over-scheduled. Even a few seconds to close your eyes and visualize a place where you feel calm can make a difference. If you have a 30-minute lunch break, consider taking the first 5 minutes to decompress and the last 5 minutes to re-energize your mind before returning to work. Visualize a box where you "store" your concerns for that period of time. It doesn't mean you're ignoring the tasks waiting for you. Instead, think about this as a temporary parking spot where you have to turn off your engine. Breathing and counting exercises can also help.

Movement - Short breaks throughout your day to get up and move have been proven to increase productivity, enhance creativity, improve brain function, and decrease stress. More intense movement where you increase your heart rate improves cardiovascular health. Lifting weights improves muscle tone and enhances overall sense of well-being. Whether you choose to move several times throughout the day for quick brain breaks or schedule in a workout, movement is an important strategy in your quest for contentment.

Education - The process of learning has the potential to boost confidence, enhance sense of self-worth, and improve opportunities to make an impact in your chosen career field. The more we engage in learning about the world in which we live, the better we can understand ourselves and the people with whom we come into contact. Embrace new strategies, methods, and techniques as you commit to reading, research, and activities. Take time to boost your mind and challenge your brain.

Negotiation - There is a fine art in learning how to appreciate individual differences, understanding how people engage in discussions, and discerning what it takes to work toward mutually beneficial outcomes. One of the best ways to develop your negotiation skills is to develop a strong enough sense of self that you can put aside ego and personal gain. Be willing to compliment others and appreciate what they have to offer throughout your negotiations. As with any fine art, successful interactions take time and plenty of practice.

Teamwork - Collaborating with others to share resources, develop strategies, and create programs in a supportive environment can lead to satisfying experiences whether at home, in the workplace, or in a sports arena. Teamwork involves planning, negotiations, contracting, timelines, and the ability to follow through on projects from start to completion. The dynamic pull of teammates as each variable is incorporated creates an energy and flow. There is satisfaction in seeing a plan grow and materialize.

Thanks for taking time to read this blog.

You are appreciated!

Wishing all of you many adventures,
solutions to your challenges,
answers to your prayers,
& resources to help you survive
all of your collaborative projects!

(And... a good dose of ranting to release the stress once in a while)
Kindest Wishes,
~ Mary

Other networking opportunities:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MamasMarketforMillenials

https://www.facebook.com/writermomadvocate/

This article features our special affiliate collaboration.

We invite you to look at their shop.

Here's the perfect opportunity to select a gift for someone you love.

I'm happy to help you if you require assistance.

Message me in the comments section.

Monday, May 24, 2021

Hey Monday! Here we are once again...

Please read disclaimer at the end of this article

Hey Monday! Here we are once again...

by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

This post sponsored by:

click on picture or logo for gift giving options

Save 10% with Code: Sister

Writer Mom Goals for the day...

M - Meditate for at least 5 minutes to help focus on the day

O - Observe what inspires you toward completion of a task

N - Negotiate the terms of your interactions with others

D - Decide on what you hope to accomplish this week

A - Advocate for yourself and for those who request your help

Y - You are appreciated and an important participant

in today's events.

Thanks for taking time to read

this blog.You are appreciated!

Wishing all of you many adventures,
solutions to your challenges,
answers to your prayers,
& resources to help you survive
all of your collaborative projects!

(And...a good dose of ranting to release the stress once in a while)
Kindest Wishes,
~ Mary

Other networking opportunities:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MamasMarketforMillenials

https://www.facebook.com/writermomadvocate/

This article features our special affiliate collaboration.

We invite you to look at their shop.

Here's the perfect opportunity to select a gift for someone you love.

I'm happy to help you if you require assistance.

Message me in the comments section.

Thursday, February 11, 2021

Ten Ways to Effect Positive Change

Please view disclaimer at the end of this article

World of Writer Mom's List

Ten Ways to Effect Positive Change

by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

(Originally published 2018)

My Crew

I'm just gonna put this out there to you. As an advocate, I believe it's important to not only draw attention to a concern or issue of our times, but to provide concrete examples of what we can do to effect positive change.

I follow some writers who are great about posting the things that are going wrong in our world, that we're all going to hell in a hot minute because there are so many sinners, that social injustice and racial inequality is rampant in our communities, and that "insert label/stereotype here" have no clue about the real facts.

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A favorite quote of mine:

"There is no greater joy nor greater reward than to make a fundamental difference in someone's life."
~ Sister Mary Rose McGeady, Children's Advocate

World of Writer Mom's List of Ten

Ways to Effect Positive Change

To effect positive changes requires a commitment

to some key concepts.

1. Facts/Valid links for research

2. Examples of situations/How it makes us feel (Anecdotal references) Avoid name calling, labeling, and stereotypes.

3. Statement of specific concern/problem

4. Identify possible solutions/strategies

5. Identify goals and measurable outcomes

6. Participate in plan of action

7. Follow up with progress and results.

8. Ensure supports and resources for continuation of plan.

9. Understand short term versus long term goals of change.

10. Encourage on going process and evaluation even when it feels slow.

These are the things that require a strong, patient, and consistent leader.

Something to think about.

How do you want to be seen? heard? represented?

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Personal Awareness Tips

What kind of changes do you hope to lead this year?

What kind of changes do you hope to support this year?

What kind of tone and attitude do you plan to promote?

How will you choose to respond to those who engage in name calling, divisive behaviors, and actions without solutions?

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Wishing all of you a week of adventures,
solutions to your challenges,
answers to your prayers,
& resources to help you survive
all of your collaborative projects!

Kindest Wishes,
~ Mary

Other networking opportunities:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MamasMarketforMillenials

https://www.facebook.com/writermomadvocate/

Sponsored Ad - Click on Pic to order

This article features our special affiliate collaboration.

We invite you to look at their shop.

Here's the perfect opportunity to select a gift for someone you love.

I'm happy to help you if you require assistance.

Message me in the comments section.

Click on pics to purchase

Disclaimer
World of Writer Mom.org is part of an affiliate program. This means that if you make a purchase through the links I promote on this site or on its related social media platforms, I may earn a small commission from that action to support World of Writer Mom.org
Important: You will NOT be charged more when buying products through my link.
I enjoy taking time to research products that look interesting and may provide helpful resources to you and your family. The opinions, knowledge, and experiences I write about are my own. Real Life Awareness: Recommendations do not imply liability, responsibility for disappointments or failed expectations, or regret over budgeting woes. I trust each reader to use their own good judgment when it comes to knowing what will work best for you and your family. (Because...well...I am not the ultimate decision maker, judge, or source of approval for anyone except myself...and my children...until they are legally allowed to represent themselves.)
Thank You for taking time to read, participate, and share your adventures with me. Hopefully, we'll find something to occasionally purchase, enjoy, and use in an effort to create a special moment.Privacy: This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do we store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. We are not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without our permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on October 15, 2020. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly here at: worldofwritermom@outlook.com

Saturday, November 14, 2020

How do you INSPIRE others?

Inspiring others to make a difference

by: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

It is important to recognize that what we say and how we say it can create a mood or vibe. The nuances of language are complex. Words contain power in their presentation. And it's not just the words that create energy. Your approach and how you care for others is infused into your messages. Daily interactions provide insights into how you feel, your intent, and what you find important in life. The way you choose to communicate is the result of many variables including:

LIFE EXPERIENCES

PERSONAL STRUGGLES & SURVIVALS

KNOWLEDGE ON VARIOUS TOPICS

SELF-AWARENESS OF STRENGTHS/CHALLENGES/TRIGGERS

UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT THROUGHOUT LIFE CYCLE

ABILITY TO ASSIMILATE INFORMATION AND APPLY IT TO SITUATIONS

COPING SKILLS/ABILITY TO EVALUATE INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS

One way to enhance your ability to communicate and inspire others is to watch and learn from those who have practiced this skill and do it well. You have a wealth of resources available via social media and other outlets. Finding the ones that resonate with you may take a little time, but it is worth the search. Here are some of the places I have found inspiration.

Mikki Williams

I had the pleasure of attending a workshop presented by Mikki Williams several years ago during an AFAA certification conference in Frankfurt, Germany. Not only is she an expert story teller, she is also an incredible inspirational speaker. Mikki has a talent for grabbing her audience's attention and making them think about the possibilities available in life and in business. At the conference I attended, she also shared her creative choreography talents as a dancer. Our group of exercise/fitness instructors learned how to build fun cardio routines for our classes. But even more than that, we learned how important it is to recognize each person's unique story and incorporate that into our work as fitness instructors. It was a moment in my personal history that made a lasting impression. And isn't that what communication is about? We all hope that something we say or do will help others in their journey. Mikki shared that we cannot "motivate" others to do what we think they need to be doing. But we can "inspire" them to make choices and changes. Remembering this has helped me countless times and in many areas of my life. Years after I saw Mikki, she continues to offer insights via her web page. I recently decided to get recertified in group fitness after remembering how much I enjoyed teaching. I signed up for classes and just received my study materials. (After connecting with Mikki on LinkedIn, those memories of her workshop came flooding back.) So check out Mikki's site and find out all the amazing things she has to offer. You will find inspiration.

James and Susan Divine

The first person I met on my first day of high school was James Divine. We arrived at the door leading to the band room at the same time. (If I am remembering correctly.) I was very introverted and nervous about my first day of high school. His kind smile and greeting immediately put me at ease, and that day was the beginning of a lasting friendship. Throughout our four years in band, he was the big brother I needed, my ride home from band practices and games, and the person I trusted no matter what. I watched him grow in confidence and was happy for him when he fell in love with the woman he would one day marry. All that time, I never once suspected he held on to a dark secret that haunted him. I didn't find out until many years later when we ended up reconnecting. James is an accomplished musician, author, and inspirational speaker who has helped many individuals realize there is life beyond trauma. He is a teacher and advocate for those who need to find their voice. His most amazing accomplishments are being a husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. I know that one day I'll get my books published too, because James has written about how it can be done even when you are busy and going in a million directions. And because I know James confronted his trauma, I have been able to reassure others that they too can overcome theirs. Check out what he has done. You will find inspiration.

World of Writer Mom's Communication Tips

Three things that create roadblocks to communication:

1. Assumptions 2. Expectations 3. Generalizations

Sunday, September 13, 2020

Considering Adolescents in Treatment Planning - Mental Health & Wellness

Note: This is a reprint from 05/18/2020

Find your community resources and encourage each other.

Give yourselves PERMISSION to access mental health services in your area.

Here is a recent post I found on social media:

6 Top Reasons People With A

Mental Illness

Don't Reach Out

@RealDepressionProject

https://www.facebook.com/RealDepressionProject/

1. Fear of judgment

2. Guilt - Don't want to be a burden

3. Shame - They see others thriving and don't want to feel weak

4. Felt misunderstood on previous attempts,

so, choose to suffer in silence

5. Fear rejection - already feel unlovable, can't cope with another reason to add to that list

6. Fear criticism

Considering Adolescents in
Treatment Planning
By: M.B.Varville-Rodriguez

There are additional factors to consider when working with teens

I work with children and adolescents in a behavioral health environment. Some of the reasons they continue to have challenges managing their mental health concerns include:

1. Parents/Guardians feel that they will be blamed for their teen's problems if they pursue therapy.

2. Parents/Guardians blame a "symptom carrier" of the overall family dynamics when in fact ALL members of a family need to be included in a treatment plan. (This need is not usually included in a discharge plan from a mental health facility.)

3. Parents/Guardians have not dealt with their own dysfunctional coping skills and are unable to provide a foundation for their teen's healing process.

4. Family members expect a short-term treatment facility to "cure" all the problems without additional resources, supports, or long-term therapy.

5. Teens who are struggling with gender identity face criticisms, threats, and abandonment by family.

6. Teens who have been traumatized by sexual/emotional/physical abuse are afraid to report the incidents to their families or to other members in the community due to a variety of concerns. (Including judgment, blame, and disbelief)

REALITY OF TREATING

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS CONCERNS:

1. There is no "magic formula" or short term "fix". On going treatment is often the best course of action.

2. Be willing to accept your own part in managing the behaviors and consequences. Stop making excuses and start making a plan of action with professionals who specialize in treating adolescents.

3. Accept that you may need to put your ego on the side in order to develop healthier coping skills for every family member.

4. Progress is not linear. Think of it as going off-roading. You're going to have a lot of bumps in this road that will knock you side-ways. Hold on for the long ride.

5. You cannot "yell" or "shame" the behaviors out of your teen.

6. Give yourself plenty of grace to make mistakes and seek additional help from community resources. Pressing the "reset" button is an important concept in re-evaluating goals, strategies, and expectations. ~ WorldofWriterMom.org

Wishing all of you a week of adventures,
solutions to your challenges,
and answers to your prayers.

Kindest Wishes,

Mary

Please join us for more discussion at:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/MARYSTEA/

World of Writer Mom

Saturday, August 20, 2022

Taking Care of Yourself Series - Part I

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

CONTENTMENT - Eleven Points

Monday, May 24, 2021

Hey Monday! Here we are once again...

Thursday, February 11, 2021

Ten Ways to Effect Positive Change

Saturday, November 14, 2020

How do you INSPIRE others?

Sunday, September 13, 2020

Considering Adolescents in Treatment Planning - Mental Health & Wellness

Sleepy Time Suggestions

Fresh Scents for All Seasons