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Have you ever heard the acronym for ‘J-O-B’ which stands for “Just Over Broke.” Food for Thoughts eh!

Funny how at the beginning of each year, we all get our financial planning caps on – making that claim to be financially free by end of the year. The question is: how many of us actually get to achieve that goal?

Earlier in the month, I was sent a FaceBook video clip titled  ‘Stop Going Broke Trying to Impress People’ by MJ Harris (an internationally recognized financial services CEO and motivational success teacher), which was to enable me on this financial journey (part of my yearly Manifesto) that I am on. I have to honestly say that watching the video clip spoke the truth on all sorts of level but the most important truth received was: Being Real to Myself!

My interpretation from watching the video (see below) was a summary of the ideology of money and its definition or purposed definition: ‘Poor is eternal, Broke is temporary’. Questions starting flowing through my mind querying whether we ever do get ‘broke’ or ‘poor’? Does such a word like ‘poor’ or ‘broke’ actually manifest itself in one’s life? Below are a few answers I sourced online:

  • Poor is a state of mind, broke is a state of wallet.
  • Poor is when you don’t know how to manage money, broke is when you go bankrupt because you can’t pay medical bills.
  • Poor people are always broke, broke people are broke for a while.

So my question is: are you tired of being poor or broke? There was a time I used to call those words like it was part of my daily vocabulary because I never had the financial education need to curb my lifestyle and needs (or should I say wants).

I can honestly say that I have never been poor but it has not been long since I have been ‘BROKE’ (actually as of last week, I was – hmmmm), and I can still remember exactly what it felt like. I can picture all the ugly details of the way I used to struggle; the empty bank account, the awkward moments, the feelings of despair and embarrassed to approach my family for help or even friends and keep up appearances so not to be ostracised. Well, truth be told again – I have not totally learned my lessons but step-by-step, I am getting there.

I recall Iyanla Vanzant during an affirmation session years ago encouraging us to substitute the word ‘broke’ to being ‘temporary out of money‘. That changed my mindset in ways I cannot even describe. Broke is how much you keep and not how much you make? I made up my mind that for the rest of my life, I have to continue to increase wealth and leave a legacy so my mindset is being tuned to challenging myself financially like cutting off unnecessary expenses (for starters).  Being temporary out of money has given me an entirely different perspective on cash flow, debt, and my own financial well-being. I have learned that there is a big difference between looking like ‘you have money’ and ‘actually having money’.

IMG_8700When I was younger, I took the concept of lifestyle inflation to a whole new level. Shopping was my ‘middle name’. I just knew I had to have the best things in life (no matter the cost) but as I became a mother, I had to learn about living within my means and the real-life consequences of unplanned purchases (well another truth be told – this is still a constant challenge). And most importantly, I have become willing to do anything and everything to make sure that I will never be broke AGAIN. And YES, I must confess that I have failed on numerous occasions since becoming an adult but some of the lessons from that part of my life have stuck with me.

My target to be completely out of DEBT is by April 2018 and quite frankly, once I am out of debt, I have made a pledge never to put myself in that situation again. I made myself a promise to rise above my situation and start with a clean slate. And I am doing just that. 

Have you ever been flat broke? If so, what did you learn from it? 

Share your thoughts about in the comments below.

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Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © 

So the beginning of the week which was July 31st, was a special day in my life; it was my birthday or as my one of my special aunt will say; ‘my earth day’ which signified a new season and new beginning – a new year.

But this year has been different from the other previous years that even friends and family were puzzled at my non-excitement which was somewhat worrying. You see, I am known for truly celebrating my birthday every year ever since I was a young girl but I was not anticipating anything special this year nor did I want to celebrate the day. All I wanted to do was just say a little gratitude prayer and just curl in bed with my son. Was that too hard to ask for? 

At times during the course of 2017, it has been difficult to remain centred in this spirit of gratitude for all things big or small that I have experienced this year. I even have to admit that at a certain point, I was all but ready to throw up both my hands in total frustration. But then I was reminded to be grateful for life and the successes that I have experienced and regardless of the losses that have affected me this year – I should look at the positive outlook and second chance that life has given me. I was reminded that life is cyclical and nothing is permanent and so should be able to withstand life’s changing winds with the same resilience that I have seen from those I admire.

That no matter what, through-out this interesting journey, I have learnt that ‘this too shall pass me by’ and so cannot let my downs over-ride my highs. So coming up to my special day; I chose to let those healing words, hugs, smiles and gestures heal and restore me coupled with the grace of God. I chose to look at my life and be grateful that He still has me on earth to do the work I have been assigned so I cannot quit now. 

That being said, I decided to celebrate my birthday with a dinner full of loved ones and was touched by the words expressed by each person on how I have impacted their lives. That made me once again believe in my purpose and gift so here’s a great Thank You to all family and friends walking this incredible journey of restoration with me. This ‘lady’ is back with the roaring spirit that she was born with. 

I am back y’all….

Do stay in touch and like, comment plus follow my BLOG for upcoming posts.

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady ©

 

 

Ansella

The Fashion Illustrator Herself

It’s been a while since we had the first ‘Talk Time’ segment as I have been somewhat distracted with other projects but now I am back to one of the things I love doing which is profiling and empowering people and their accomplishments – elevating them to showcase their career, ambitions and accomplishments.

Amidst a political climate that continues to reject diversity, one designer is holding on to her roots and making a statement in the fashion industry with her illustrations and that is Ms. Ansella Post. Ansella loves to express her love of her fashion through her authentic, fun and unique lifestyle brand. Here’s her story on why “now is the perfect time for deeper self reflection and rediscovering her inner passion”.

Name:  Ansella Post

Title: Fashion Ilustrator & Designer

Location: London

Hometown:  Amsterdam 

Instagram:  @ansellapost 

FaceBook:  Ansella Post

The Gig:  I focus on fashion prints that are colourful and bold. Most of my designs are derived from my fashion drawings and illustrations. My designs are simple with clean lines which should be wearable by anyone.

Target Audience: I target my collections at women and menswear. People who are fashionable and culturally aware basically lovers of fashion with an edge.

Did you always want to become a Fashion illustrator? I always wanted to be a designer ever since I was a child cause I loved to draw especially cloths but life somehow took over with distractions but now I am back to my first love.

Where does your creative ideas come from? It comes from everywhere – walking down the streets and enjoying nature, watching films (40s & 50s) especially their style and elegance.

The Journey:  my background is not in fashion as I worked in a bank for years but I have always been creative. Started designing my own cloths which I wore to work and this got noticed. So I started making cloths to sell to co workers which led to me opening an online shop.

On Being Her Own Boss: It is quite challenging, you have to do all the marketing and sales which I was not good at as I am very creative. It is very fulfilling as you are doing your hobby – Passion into Profit. I have also learnt that one has to be focused.

How are you with Social Media? I am not really good at SM but familiar with Instagram and Facebook.

Why did you decide to become a Fashion Designer & Illustrator? It is my passion since childhood. My grandmother was a designer as well so that inspired me.

What is your favourite part about being a Fashion Designer and also an Illustrator? I love the creativity in designing – the newness and ideas. I love drawing as it’s my imagination on paper. My break in illustration art is the work you (yes I commissioned her to do my portrait) and it has now kicked off with numerous work offers coming my way.

What are your plans for the future? I want to be particularly successful in my upcoming ‘capsule’ collection to be launched in spring/summer 2017.

What do you think of eco-fashion? I am all for eco-fashion to be aware of the environment and do all we can to protect the world we live in and reduce pollution. There are fabrics that are waste-friendly. I am a supporter of SLOW fashion where a designer buys a few prices to be used.

Who was/is the biggest influence in your career? My grandmother was the biggest influence in my life. She told me that one was never too old to learn something new. Her strength and tenacity inspired me.

What is your definition of happiness? Trying to be content with what one has. Counting one’s blessings and being grateful.

What is your most memorable travel experiences? I love travelling especially third world countries. In India, seeing children fighting over food made me grateful for what I had and endeavour to always remain humble.

What accomplishment are you most proud of? I fulfilled my dream and become a professional London Fashion Designer.

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What do you like to do in your spare time? I love to eat and drink – I love socialising. Enjoy Life

What is your greatest fear? My greatest fear is losing loved ones.

What is your greatest hope? My greatest hope is to become the best Fashion Designer that I can be.

What favourite quote/mantra do you live by?: ‘You can never be overdressed or overeducated.’ by Oscar Wilde

Your Biggest Lesson Learned: Keeping in mind what the customer wants as per the design but stay true to oneself. Find a balance in all things.

Your Best Advice: Be fearless. Be yourself and stay true to your passion.  The answer no will eventually turn into a yes! Stay available and reach out to other creative people! Don’t be afraid to share other artist’s work! Not everything has to be a competition! Do not be afraid to take risks – go outside your comfort zone.

Her Work-Life Balancing Act:  I am very social – always out with friends and family. I believe in live life and work hard.

Her Time Saving Tips: Planning. I try to schedule out the next day so that things don’t get too crazy and I end up forgetting something. Stay focused and within budget as one can get distracted. Be efficient – planning in all things.

Her Stress Relievers: Sometimes I just have to pause and pray.

Your Favourite Book:  The Book Thief by Australian author Markus Zusak; The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by Irish novelist John Boyne; My name is Sarah. I have a fascination for history hence my creativity. I have learnt a lot from the stories as it is now repeating itself.

Your Superpower:  The ability to push through adversity! Always remaining positive in all situations – I look at the glass being half full than half empty.

Your Tech Must-Haves: I cannot live without my iPhone and I like Instagram as I get inspired from all the designers and also Behance which is a site, where one can Showcase and discover the latest work from top online portfolios by creativeprofessionals across industries. My designs are on Behance.

Your Beauty-Must Have: Eye-liner – that is my addiction.

Your Power Accessory: A nice ring and earring. I have an obsession with everything silver.

Your Theme Song: Any song from Lenny Kravitz

For more on Ansella’s collection: contact her via instagram – @ansellapost or via email – ansellapost@apostdesign.co.uk.

Do like, comment and follow my BLOG for upcoming posts.

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © 

Remembering all those who passed away last night at the Manchester Arena explosion and also to those who got injured – our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Well, today is a new day and trust the British to do what we do best in times of adversity: we go on out with a Bold Spirit remembering but carry on with life as normal,

So again , I write this note to all those who don’t like the laws of the land of UK and feel that threatening us with fear and attacks is the answer: The nation of United Kingdom is under the covering of Psalm 91 – “We will not be afraid of the terror by night or of the arrow that flies by day…” 

United, we will always STAND BOLD in LOVE and FEAR will never be OUR PORTION!

Do like, comment and follow my BLOG for upcoming posts.

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady ©

Tuesday hugs to you all Beloveds.

Sunday 26th March was Mothering Sunday around Europe and some parts of the world and it brought to remembrance the joys and sacrifices that birth-mothers, step-mothers, foster-mothers do for their children. Mothering Sunday is a day dedicated to celebrating motherhood and making her feel extraordinarily special.

But permit me to ask a question!

  • Is making her feel special on Mothering Sunday what we’re supposed to do?
  • Do you think focusing our energy on this extraordinary person called a ‘MOTHER’ once a year is enough?

It’s like Valentine’s Day which is held yearly on the 14th of February to signify the celebration of LOVE but I beg to differ as LOVE should be celebrated daily. That got me really thinking about what motherhood is (along with the significance of Mothering Sunday) and the only conclusion I can come up with is the word ‘sacrifice’; and the underlining factor that comes along with that ‘word’. The mother-child relationship can be one of the most complicated and yet most rewarding of all relationships. As any parent will tell you, the practice of raising a child can be extremely difficult, and mothers definitely deserve the thanks and praise. And while it certainly isn’t enough to appreciate her just one day out of the year, Mother’s Day is a good start.

So what is a “good mother”? One who would sacrifice all for her children. One who offers love that is endless, silent, undemanding, One who would deny her own maternal identity rather than see her offspring rent in two. A good mother is her children; she does not have a story of her own. She is the channel through which others learn to speak.

The meaning of being a mother is virtually endless. A mother is a protector, disciplinarian and friend. A mother is a selfless, loving human who must sacrifice many of their wants and needs for the wants and needs of their children. A mother works hard to make sure their child is equipped with the knowledge, skills and abilities to make it as a competent human being. Being a mother is perhaps the hardest, most rewarding job a woman will ever experience but it comes with the most quantifying thing called LOVE.

As Toni Morrison’s Beloved illustrates, maternal love defies restrictions based on the intersection of race and gender, and exists beyond patriarchal rules of ownership.

Being a mother 8 years ago changed my life completely. I found out that this little creature called David was brought into my life to teach me how to love unconditionally but also to test my ‘patience’ (which I was struggling with, even though my African name ‘Ndidiamaka’ denotes ‘patience is a virtue’) amongst things.

I had become much more than a bottle washer or bottom wiper. I discovered that I found myself wearing a dizzying array of hats: master chef, schedule organizer, cheerleader, comforter, mentor and detective.  I found myself forever showering David with hugs and kisses, listening to him as he recounts his day, either at school or otherwise, play games or slip a note in his lunch box letting him know how much I love him.

As mothers (be it birth-mothers, step-mothers and foster mothers), I discovered that we daily change the course of the future through our encouragement and admonishments, through these life-giving moments when we pour into our children. We get to shape their character and teach them about the God who made them and loves them. We teach them about honesty and the power of commitment. We teach them how to share and how to love. We form the face of tomorrow through our mummy-life today. Each moment counts, and for a mother, there aren’t any throwaway days.

In turn, David has shown me what unconditional love is all about. He’s exactly the type of child I had prayed for all my life and nothing brings me even more joy than seeing the gifts God has placed in him slowly manifesting – the worshipper, the carer, the karate expert, the footballer, the mathematician, the cook, the traveller, the story-teller, the PS4 player, the YouTuber amongst others. So it makes the ‘sacrifice’ all worthwhile.

With every hug, every gentle pat, every encouraging word, we are making a difference that no one else can. Without fanfare or thanks, we are shaping the minds and hearts of future leaders, inventors, dreamers and decision-makers. We truly are world changers.

So even if for one day, we are appreciated for all the work we do; then I proudly receive it on behalf of all the MOTHERS in the world. Yes the work never ceases but being treated with love by all makes it all WORTHWHILE.

So here’s to celebrating the special women in my life: Mummy dearest, Sister-in-love (Sarah), Big Sisters Josephine & Ngozi, Pastor Sola Irukwu (Spiritual Mother/Big Sister), Church Grandma Falaye and to my fellows Mothers (birth-mothers, step-mothers, foster mothers and also mothers-in-waiting): Happy Mothering Day Beloveds.

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Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © 

So yesterday being the 22nd of March 2017 is a day that will not be forgotten by the British public especially us Londoners. I was away at the annual Project Challenge conference (which is a show for business professionals involved in Projects, Programmes, Process and Resource sector) and upon entering the office afterwards, got asked by a colleague whether I went to work at the main office site uptown. I looked at her really puzzled as per what brought about such a query with a worried face then she broke the devastating news to me. Some cowardly terrorist thought he could bring London down with a dreadful attack on innocent people along Westminster Bridge and then went ahead and stabbed a Police Office outside the iconic Houses of Parliament. Before I knew it, calls started flowing in with my voice-mail full of messages (as I was underground on the train all this while) – all querying whether I was safe.

My first word was Not Again Lord as the last attack in London was back in July 2005 and we have always been on full alert since then. I really had to take all this in as my office is about 10 minutes away from the Houses of Parliament and then was told that all the government agencies around the Westminster area were put on lock-down for safety of all staff members. I am relieved to say that family and friends when checked on afterwards were safe. 

The investigation into the terrorist attack is continuing at the moment but still what I am able to confirm so far is:

  • Four people have died, including the stabbed policeman and the attacker.
  • Police say 29 other people were treated in hospital, seven of whom are in a critical condition.
  • The assailant drove a car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, killing two people, before crashing it outside parliament and trying to enter the complex, armed with a knife.
  • He stabbed an unarmed police officer who later died from the injuries, before armed police shot him. The police officer was identified as 48-year-old PC Keith Palmer, who had 15 years of service with the parliamentary and diplomatic protection service. He was a husband and father, police said.
  • Another victim was named as Aysha Frade, 43, who worked as a teacher in London. The mother-of-two had family in Betanzos, Galicia, in north-west Spain and her death was confirmed by the mayor of the town.
  • Prime minister Theresa May said the attacker was British-born and had been investigated “some years ago” by MI5 in relation to concerns about violent extremism. She said the man, whose identity she said would be revealed in due course, was “not part of the current intelligence picture”.
  • The attacker is believed to have acted alone but police are investigating possible associates. May said there was “no reason to believe” further attacks on the public were planned.
  • Police have searched six addresses in Birmingham, London and other parts of the country, and made eight arrests.
  • Twelve Britons were injured, including three police officers, two of whom were seriously injured, and four university students, as well as three French children, four South Koreans, two Romanians, two Greeks. a Chinese national, an Italian, an American, a Pole, an Irish national and a German woman resident in Australia.
  • One woman was thrown or jumped into the Thames from the bridge. She was rescued from the water but had sustained serious injuries.
  • PM Theresa May told MPs in a statement to parliament this morning: “We are not afraid and our resolve will never waiver in the face of terrorism.” The prime minister, who was evacuated from parliament within minutes and driven to Downing Street, described Palmer as “every inch a hero”.

Well, today is a new day and trust Londoners to do what we do best: we go on out with a Bold Spirit remembering those who passed on and praying for those who are still down with injury but carry on with life as normal, We Will! So this a note to all those who don’t like the laws of the land of UK and feel that threatening us with fear and attacks is the answer: The nation of United Kingdom is under the covering of Psalm 91 – “We will not be afraid of the terror by night or of the arrow that flies by day…” United we will always STAND BOLD in LOVE and FEAR will never be OUR PORTION!

Do like, comment and follow my BLOG for upcoming posts.

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © – Follow my blog with Bloglovin

As we join hands to celebrate WOMEN on this International Women’s Day titled Be ‘Bold For Change‘, we look at the theme as helping to forge a better working world – a more inclusive, gender equal world.

All my life, I have been surrounded by strong women making a difference in society. My grandmother was the first female president of her town’s village society (Amaigbo Town Union – ATU), my mother was one of the first female staff members to be sent to the UK to set up the Nigeria Airways office in London. I look around and acknowledge strong women all over the world for their amazing resilience in the face of adversity, their strength and courage and much more.

International Women’s Day means different things to different people. For some it’s a celebration, for others it’s a call-to-action to accelerate gender parity, and for many, it’s an opportunity to align and promote relevant activity. Whatever your objective, International Women’s Day is the perfect moment for gender-focused action.

Every person – women, men and non-binary people – can play a part in helping drive better outcomes for women. Through meaningful celebration and targeted bold action, we can all be responsive and responsible leaders in creating a more gender inclusive world. So around the world, International Women’s Day provides an important opportunity for groundbreaking action that can truly drive greater change for women.

Each one of us – with women, men and non-binary people joining forces – can be a leader within our own spheres of influence by taking bold pragmatic action to accelerate gender parity. Through purposeful collaboration, we can help women advance and unleash the limitless potential offered to economies the world over.

As derived from International Women’s Day, which area will you take bold action in? Click the down arrows to be inspired by examples of bold actions.

I’ll challenge bias and inequality

  • query all-male speaking panels
  • pull people up on exclusive language
  • challenge stereotypes
  • call it out when women are excluded
  • monitor the gender pay gap
  • point out bias and highlight alternatives
  • call for diverse candidate shortlists
  • embrace inclusive leadership
  • redefine the status quo

I’ll campaign against violence

  • educate youth about positive relationships
  • challenge those who justify perpetrators and blame victims
  • donate to groups fighting abuse
  • speak out against the silence of violence
  • be vigilant and report violence
  • campaign for the prevention of violence
  • abstain from all violence, physical and otherwise
  • volunteer your help at a local charity
  • recognize coercive control and redress it

I’ll forge women’s advancement

  • decide to buy from companies that support women
  • choose to work for a progressive employer for women
  • support or back a woman-owned business
  • take a junior female colleague to a major meeting or event
  • build conducive, flexible work environments
  • appoint a woman to the board
  • mentor a woman and sponsor her goals
  • invite women into situations where they’re not already present or contributing
  • measure and report on gender parity gaps and keep gender on the agenda
  • create new opportunities for women

I’ll celebrate women’s achievement

  • raise women’s visibility as spokespeople in the media
  • drive fairer recognition and credit for women’s contributions
  • launch even more awards showcasing women’s success
  • hail the success of women leaders
  • applaud social, economic, cultural and
    political women role models
  • celebrate women’s journeys and the barriers overcome
  • reinforce and support women’s triumphs

I’ll champion women’s education

  • launch or fund a women-focused scholarship
  • encourage more girls into STEM education and careers
  • value diversity for greater educational outcomes
  • support women inventors of new products and services
  • celebrate women researchers discovering new knowledge
  • learn to code

Will you #BeBoldForChange?

Happy International Women’s Day again to all the Women of Strength!

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Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © – Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Apologies for the late post but been bugged down with other projects img_8616which will be posted real soon but in the meantime, life goes on. Anyway back to this journey of the Rebirth – the Renaissance, I made up my mind this year to think out of the box in all I do – thus this blog-header was added to my 2017 manifesto: Think & Ask BIG!

What is thinking, some may ask? When I searched via Google – it stated that ‘Thinking is the process of considering or reasoning about something or using thought or rational judgement.’

‘Thinking big’ means being able to dream and visualise what you can achieve on a large scale: with no limits on your thinking. It is about being open-minded, positive, creative and seeing opportunity in the big picture.

Some believe that “thinking big” means you should set wildly ambitious stretch goals to inspire yourself to greater heights. But it is not: ‘thinking big’ means that we have to step out of our comfort zone and walk into the uncomfortable. Set attainable goals every day of your life.

Thinking big is not easy. It’s something that we must learn to cultivate over time on a daily basis in everything we do. However, even when this habit of thinking big is deeply ingrained into our psyche, there will still be times when barriers will need to be overcome, obstacles will need to be surpassed, and old habits will need to be broken. It is during these times that we need to think big and do bigger things than ever before. It is easier written than done eh. 

To have that positive mental attitude of thinking big – having a strong network of friends is essential. Have that positive network is crucial to one’s growth. They are one to help empower and uplift you to your best potential by ‘keeping it real’ (as the millennial will say). “Often, when we’re asking people to support us, we’re just asking for approval. But if we’re looking for results, we have to be comfortable with the feedback of people asking us to think bigger.” We need to have those who can boldly say NO whenczlgbyawkaanpvo it is needed and also pat us on the back for a job well done. I have an inner circle of people who know when to say Yes or No to this strong-minded lady called Yvonne.

Whether we want to hear it or not, sometimes other people determine whether or not, we are to be successful. So thinking Big requires understanding that the biggest and most meaningful projects simply can’t be accomplished on your own. “Other people are going to open the doors and spread your messages.” So how can you get others involved and inspired to help? It’s all about attitude and reliability, “You make commitments and fulfil them, you learn in action, and you deal with [your own] voices of judgement without being critical of others.”

Finally, big thinkers associate with other big thinkers who are ambitious, motivated and inspire others to think BIGGER, act BIGGER and become BIGGER than they ever imagined was possible.

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Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © – Follow my blog with Bloglovin

 

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Happy Friday Beloveds and as I reflect on my last post on this gratitude journey, I have also learnt about speaking positivity into myself which I back up with the word of God. Some may call it Positive Mental Attitude or Daily Affirmations or Self-Talk or simply cra-cra (as my son says when he catches me in my moment).

I call it Daily Affirmation and this is what keeps me focused on my Vision. Daily Affirmations are positive statements that describe a desired situation or goal, and are often repeated, until they get impressed on the subconscious mind. Affirmations can be a powerful tool to help you to change your mood, state of mind and manifest the change you desire in your life. And believe me it works – it is anchored by the power of your mindset.

Think of what your inner self thinks about yourself and follow this: “Speak the affirmation out loud for about five minutes, three times a day — morning, mid day and evening. An ideal time to do this is when you’re putting on your make up or shaving, so that you can look at yourself in the mirror as you repeat the positive statement.”

Examples of affirmations that you may identify with and use:

  • I am a powerhouse; I am indestructible
  • I am blessed and highly favoured (Luke 1:28)
  • Today, I am brimming with energy and overflowing with joy
  • I was made in the image of God. How cool is that! (Genesis 1:27)
  • My marriage is becoming stronger, deeper, and more stable each day
  • I possess the qualities needed to be extremely successful
  • All things are working for my good (Proverbs 8:28)
  • My business is growing, expanding, and thriving
  • The joy of the LORD is my strength (Nehemiah 8:10)
  • I am courageous and I stand up for myself
  • I live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 12:7)
  • God is love and he is in me, so I am love (1 John 4:16)
  • I forgive those who have harmed me in my past and peacefully detach from them
  • Happiness is a choice and I choose to be HAPPY
  • With God, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26)
  • I acknowledge my own self-worth; my confidence is soaring
  • I am a powerhouse and I am indestructible
  • God’s power works best in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9)
  • I radiate beauty, charm, and grace
  • Nothing is impossible for Me
  • Failure is not an Option
  • I wake up today with strength in my heart and clarity in my mind
  • My life is just beginning
  • Yes, I Can

81a1dfdc-fd88-410e-b2dc-d28372fefdc7Another option that helps to reinforce the new belief and would be easy to do at work is to write out the affirmation several times in a notebook or like me have photos of yourself with the affirmations imprinted which can be stored on your mobile device and in those times of doubt – pull it up and speak it back into your life and watch your confidence perk up again. Whatever the situation or outcome – you have been created for a purpose on this earth and with the right attitude and environment; it will be achieved and that should keep you in a constant state of gratitude.

Now say your chosen affirmations with conviction, say it in your own unique voice, and make it happen in the real world.

SAY IT, BREATHE IT, BELIEVE IT AND CLAIM IT – THAT’S YOUR MINDSET READY!!!

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Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © – Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Happy 2017 again Beloveds. Now let’s get down to it. We are only in the 3rd day of the New Year and you find something is beginning to look familiar – like old habits creeping up, friends who don’t align with your vision or journey start to reappear, the anxiety attack of those doubting voices in your ears; well, it is TIME for Deletion.

images-1Watch this amazing video by King Nahh (an 11 year old motivational speaker – www.kingnahh.com) titled: I Needed This!!! Now I’m Ready for 2017 and believe when I say that after watching it, I am even more inspired to Delete! Delete!! Delete!!!

Remember that 2017 is the Year of the Renaissance (Rebirth) and there are people who are not needed on this journey so start with the DELETE.

#purposedriven #lifechanger #lifestyleblogger #therenaissancelady

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © – Follow my blog with Bloglovin

img_1766Broken relationships hurt. The connections and ties we forge with one another are what make us strong and life sweet. So, when relationships fall apart, it hurts us in ways that are unimaginable. If we work hard we may be able to salvage and restore ties. Sometimes, the best response is to just let things go. But, when the break is in our family… walking away isn’t easy. In fact, it might prove to be impossible.

I know what it’s like to want wholeness in the midst of something that is broken—to be in a situation where there are no real winners or simple solutions. We all may want peace over the holidays. But, it’s important that we don’t achieve it at the cost of our values. The best way to get through this season is to make a commitment to being true to you. Self-neglect is the breeding ground for stress and emotional drain.

During this Christmas holiday, many of us get trapped into being our “false self,” meaning we allow others’ expectations to dictate our actions. Here are some tips for getting through the season in one piece:Image result for i choose to say NO

1. Turn On Your “NO” Button: Only say “yes” to what you want to this holiday season. If we’re constantly feeling pressured, we wind up stressed out, resentful and overwhelmed. Acting out of agreement with our own conscience causes us to feel fractured and phony. It’s essential that we own our lives by guarding the way we spend our time. Decide today that you will only make a certain number of concessions over the season.

2. Focus On the “Glad Tos”: We can release some tension from our lives by switching our language and thought process from “have to” do and focus on being “glad to” do. It can seem as if all our time is spent managing the “have tos” of life. Throughout the day it would serve us well to look at our “To Do” list and focus on how grateful we are to be able to take action. If we consciously focus our attention to the benefits and blessings attached to it, we can shift our attitudes.

3. Practice Gratitude: Try though we might, holidays present opportunities for loads of comparison. We spend time catching up with the “seasonal” people in our lives—sharing the events that only put us in the best light. Reality is, many of us have had a challenging year. Let’s prepare ourselves over the next few weeks by spending five minutes every morning, writing down the things for which we are grateful. Consciously connecting with our blessings will empower us.

gratitude-happiness-2Take five minutes to write today’s gratitude list. Then write down three things you want the most from your holiday season. To the best of your ability, let the decisions you make over the next few weeks be governed by these goals.

Affirm out loud and fill in the blank, “I choose _____ this season.” 

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady © (Follow my blog with Bloglovin)

It’s so hard to believe that we are now in the month of December. It is like I just blink back to end of year 2015 and now we are here – 30 days to the end of 2016. Gosh – time has really flown and so much decemberhas happened. Both sad and happy but in all, I am forever grateful as ‘what does not break me only makes me stronger’

So  what does December mean to you? For me: time to make amends & tie up loose ends; finish off my yearly manifesto & finally be thankful for the end of another amazing and fulfilled year!

Have you reviewed the manifesto (some call it resolutions whilst I call mine – manifesto: A manifesto is a document wherein a person, government, or organization outlines their intentions, motivations, and/or view) that was drafted at the beginning of 2016? How much off that list can you honestly say you have accomplished and ticked off?

Can you take about 5 mins out of your time today being the first of December to review that list and reflect on what needs to be finished before December 31st 2016 and what you feel might need to be taken into 2017 (if necessary). It is NEVER too late.

So  again, I ask: what does December mean to you? 

Yours in love – The Renaissance Lady ©