Wednesday, April 30, 2014

SHINE YOUR BRILLIANCE

It's as simple as that.  Allow yourself to shine and I mean really shine. Don't be afraid to use your gifts, talents, heart and leadership skills to make a difference.  Your attitude and outlook on life are crucial to how your days unfold.

The best positive reinforcements you can have is the ability to be who you really are. The positive side of you that has no trouble shining your brilliance for yourself and for others.
It really does make a difference.




Tuesday, April 29, 2014

NEVER PASS UP AN OPPORTUNITY

Sometimes a little time out does a body and mind good.  Take the opportunity to find moments that are peaceful, awe inspiring and quiet.  The best "time out's" in life may be the ones you find in the most unexpected of places.

Who said "time out" was a bad thing anyway.  Allowing yourself some rest may be just the thing that revitalizes and brings renewed energy.




Monday, April 28, 2014

THE TRUMP CARD

Did you know that excitement and anxiety come from the same place?  That's right, they do.

Even though fear can get the better of you at times, redirect that energy for the good.   Excitement is a much better driver of happiness, success and fulfillment.

As you live the next week, keep reminding yourself of what a gift you have in front of you. The gift of live and of free will of how you will live the time you are given.  Try something new or take something on that you may not have done before.  Might be just the thing you need to spark some new excitement.


Sunday, April 27, 2014

ALL YOU NEED

A little lighthearted fun always does good.

Make it a special day today. Laugh with those you love, do something silly or just relax in the stillness of knowing that you are one amazing and unique person.  And if you don't feel it, well cheesecake always makes one feel better.


Saturday, April 26, 2014

WHEN ITS TIME TO WALK AROUND

Are you the type of person who always seems to get themselves into the same type of situation, over and over again?   It might be relationships woes, financial burdens, disappointing work environment, poor decision making and the list goes on.

Instead of falling into the same hole time and time again, maybe you need to figure out another way. Learning to pivot and move beyond barriers instead of creating new ones is a great goal to work towards.

What hole are you heading toward that you need to be careful not to fall in?  Stop.
Get your bearings and maybe take a step back or find a new path.


Friday, April 25, 2014

WHEN LIFE GETS COMPLICATED

When I was a kid I loved Lego.  When my kids were kids they also loved lego.  What is it about Lego that you can spend hours upon hours of time playing with it?

Well, it is simple to use, the pieces fit together any way you want, and you can build a myriad of ideas.

I was thinking about how complicated life can get at times versus the contented feeling of playing lego as a child.  What if, in times of overwhelm and stress, we had a plan to return to that feeling of contentment by drawing close to those things that remind us of simpler times.

If you are challenged right now, reflect on what you do well. What comes easy and brings you peace and return to there, even if for a time.  There is something about rebuilding, recuperating, readjusting and rewarding yourself with things that are familiar and bring comfort.


Thursday, April 24, 2014

WHAT WE TAKE FOR GRANTED

Have you ever stopped to really think about all of the things that you are blessed with?
Instead of looking at what you don't have, maybe it is time to take stock of what you do have.

We live in a society of want.  Always wanting more but do you really need more?
Often times, what we really need, we have, and it is those things right in front of us that we take for granted.

Imagine if you had to go without. If you were stripped of everything.
What is it that you would need first?

Perspective is an interesting thing.  We live in a time where there are more and more people living in poverty, unable to meet their basic needs. More people with medical issues including 1 in 3 people in North America who suffer from mental health diagnoses, 1 in 2 people will get cancer, the exponential rise of diabetes and obesity and the list goes on.

Open your eyes and take a look around you. Even in your own backyard, there are those in need. Maybe it is time to lend a hand as often times, the best way to help yourself is to help others.


Wednesday, April 23, 2014

WHEN TIMING IS WONDERFUL

It's as simple as this.

Belief conquers disbelief every time.

It may be a tough road when you first get started, however, if you can do the work and start conditioning yourself, you will start to view life differently.

In order to see something good you have to believe there is goodness to be seen.



Tuesday, April 22, 2014

SPEAKER LINE UP - May 12th

Have you got your tickets yet?

An awesome lineup for MoMondays London on May 12th, 2014. Sure to be an inspiring evening.


THE INTERESTING THING ABOUT COMPETITION

Competition is an interesting thing.

It can be the demise of great relationships, good business ideas and a hindrance to collaborating and winning successfully in work and in life.   I believe there is room in the playground for everyone and if we all just realize that we are all quirky, adventurous and a little bit insecure, we will all do better.

Competition can be good, no doubt about it.

Letting it consume you and be the thing that leads you.. well that will surely make you crazy.


Monday, April 21, 2014

FEATURED SPEAKER: SUSAN REGIER

Susan Regier to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
May 12th, Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant at 717 Richmond St.

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Referred to as a "Magnetic Marketing & Mindset Master", Susan Regier is an in demand copywriter, speaker and "tell-it-like-it-is" coach/mentor.  She has the uncanny ability to find the hidden gems in a business that ignites sales and profits for her clients. Susan is the publisher of Networking Today, Canada's Online resource to connect professionals, build relationships and grow businesses.

Susan's story is entitled "Being Unstoppable".  Sometimes, life must spin out of control before you realize you are unstoppable - and no matter what force stops you temporarily, it's up to you to do what it takes to live life on your terms.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!
For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london



WHEN PEACE COMES

Often times what might make sense in your head eventually moves into what your intuition tells you, allowing your heart to take over.   When struggling with decisions and with the pressures of life, you might need to take a step back and check in to what your heart is feeling.

When you are living life in conflict to what your heart is telling you, it will never be smooth or fulfilling.  I have come to learn that peace is a treasured gift.  Not easily come by and not easily held onto. Work hard for it and be diligent about protecting it as being in a place of peace is a place where people work a life time to get to.


Sunday, April 20, 2014

FORGIVENESS IS LIBERATING

Forgiveness is the greatest gift that can be received and in turn can be given.

It may take decades to learn this important lesson but the single most important gift you can give yourself is the act of forgiveness.

The energy and emotion it takes to stay bitter can be better put to something more productive and positive.  Learn to let go and give way to new possibilities.

Faith, hope and love always come from allowing yourself to forgive and of course the greatest of these gifts is love.   Love always wins.


Saturday, April 19, 2014

ALL IN GOOD FUN

Stop being so serious!

Sometimes a little lighthearted fun does the soul good.   Look for the things that make you shine bright and give yourself permission to have a good laugh or be a little silly.

We might even think you are fun to be around.


Friday, April 18, 2014

LEARNING TO RECEIVE

Did you know that the average person is not good at receiving?

We are really good givers for the most part but many people have great difficulty in being the receiver of good things. blessings or gifts that are bestowed on them.

Today is Good Friday.  A day I observe as the ultimate sacrifice and gift of love.   It is a reminder to me to take time to reflect, be quiet and gift thanks for those things in my life that I may neglect and not give enough attention to.

It is also a reminder to me that my spiritual walk is so important, and if grounded in my faith and my beliefs, I can hold firm and steadfast through the more challenging moments that life brings.

Finally, it is a reminder that in having a solid foundation and a strong belief and in taking the time to be still and to learn to trust, that I will receive more than I could ever imagine.  No, it is not always about money but receiving more peace, contentment, joy, focus, clarity, purpose...well, in my opinion, those are priceless.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life.

Thankful for love, caring and a deep knowing of the Father's love today.


Thursday, April 17, 2014

FEATURED SPEAKER: JUSTINE WARD

Justine Ward to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
May 12th, Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant at 717 Richmond St.

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Dr. Justine Ward has a passion for teaching people how to live healthy, happy lives. She speaks regularly in the community, delivering workshops and seminars on a variety of health and wellness topics. She runs a busy family practice, is a CrossFit coach and co-owns a nutrition coaching company.

Justine will share her journey of understanding. Through her trials and tribulations, she uncovered one question that she couldn't answer and as an experiment, she began asking the question of others. The answers changed her life.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!
For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london



FEATURED SPEAKER: CLAUDIO MARINO

Claudio Marino to be Speaker at MoMondays London 
May 12th at Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant, 717 Richmond St.


A Bit About Our Speaker:
Claudio Marino considers himself a true renaissance man.  He is a faux finish master who specializes in the renaissance era by transforming brick fireplaces, wooden mantels and drywall to look and feel like stone and marble.  He is a master storyteller who will touch your heart.   

Claudio's story of enduring and overcoming takes an unexpected twist. One that is a reminder that character always wins in the end.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!
For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london


FEATURED EMCEE: PAULA MORAND

Paula Morand to be Emcee at MoMondays London 
May 12th at Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant, 717 Richmond St.

Greetings From Your Emcee 
For someone who has spent a career working with people to increase their confidence and capabilities, I couldn't be more excited about hosting MoMondays London.   As the monthly Emcee, I am super excited to welcome to the stage inspiring thought leaders, professional speaker and cool people with inspiring stories.  I have no doubt the audience at MoMondays London are going to walk away motivated, inspired and generally happy from spending a great night with great people.  Of course, the ambience and awesome food at Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant isn't too shabby either.

So grab a group and come on out to MoMondays London.

A Bit About Paula
Paula Morand is the Founder & CEO of JumpStart 720 International, a premier leadership coaching and training institute and GoLead, a technology firm that builds HR software solutions for transforming culture and building positive change.  Since selling her first company before the age of 30, this 3x Entrepreneur of the Year strives to make a difference in the lives of others.  In everything she does, Paula's purpose is simple:  to engage, equip and empower people to love what they do and live like they mean it.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays.
For Ticket Information:  www.momondays.com/London




WILL YOU BE LIMITED BY FEAR?

Regret is an interesting thing.

How will you feel about missing an opportunity in life all because you were too afraid to try?

Ask yourself, "What is the worst that could happen?".

Most times, other than one's pride getting hurt, it is nothing more than a little hit to the confidence level.  But wait! What if it does work out?

Bigger risks are understandable and if you are risk averse it is difficult to make decisions that might feel to much out of your comfort zone.

Just remember to do the rocking chair test and envision your life 20 or 30 years from now.

What if....


Wednesday, April 16, 2014

FEATURED SPEAKER: DAVE SEMPLE

Dave Semple to be Speaker at MoMondays London 
May 12th at Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant, 717 Richmond St.


A Bit About Our Speaker:
Dave Semple is an accomplished Singer-Songwriter. His creative folk stylings just landed him in the Top 25 for Searchlight: The Hunt for Canada's Best New Artist.  He has also built a career as a respected teacher and has numerous theatre and performance credits to his name. 

Dave has a story to share that speaks to how we communicate and a surprising lesson he learned through building a healing drum.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!
For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london


FEATURED SPEAKER: DAVE LA THANGUE

Dave La Thangue to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
May 12th, Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant at 717 Richmond St.

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Dave La Thangue is an Award Winning Tom Jones Impersonator.  He is the recipient of the prestigious 2012 CIC Las Vegas Award for Best Male Entertainer.  When not performing, Dave teaches stage performance and communication skills to speakers and corporate clients. Working at the front of the stage is a very cool existence, but his passion is playing bass at the back of the stage.

Dave's story is entitled "The Bass Lines of Life"and highlights his career as a Tom Jones impersonator and his passion for playing the bass.

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays!
For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london


FEATURED SPEAKER: MICHAEL DUHANEY

Michael Duhaney to be Speaker at MoMondays London         
May 12th, Aroma Mediterranean Restaurant at 717 Richmond St.

A Bit About Our Speaker:
Michael Duhaney, Life Coach, Workshop Facilitator and Leadership Development Specialist is a visionary leader who sees the possibility in present situations while holding the big picture of the future.   He is a trained professional coach and graduate of the prestigious CTI Coaching and Leadership Program.  

Michael's story is entitled "What Is It To Be Alive" and will touch on the idea of being grateful for moments in life and to find joy even in the smallest of places.  

You meet the nicest people at MoMondays.
For Tickets:  www.momondays.com/london

WHEN THE JOURNEY SEEMS DARK

You know you are on the path of optimism and hope when you can find a glimpse of happiness even in the midst of a seemingly dark time.

Never stop seeking those things that lift your heart and soul. The things that light a smile and bring about a sense of contentment and peace.

In a day and age where life moves so fast, it really is the moments that we can capture (whenever we can capture them) that count.


Tuesday, April 15, 2014

TAKE BIG GLORIOUS RISKS

Climb, climb, climb!!

Never be afraid to try.  Dare to risk in order to achieve that accomplishment you have been striving for or to grab that great tasting fruit you have been dreaming about, whatever that is.

Limitations are for the insecure but pushing past limits are for the daring, the optimistic and the true lovers of life.


Monday, April 14, 2014

WHY ARE YOU IN THE SHADOWS?

Are you just waiting for the day that you get your chance to shine?

Do you just keep waiting in the wings?  Waiting for the curtain to open and to be able to walk centre stage and take your moment?  A defining moment for me happened years ago when a friend of mine was bold enough to ask me if I was ready to take centre stage of my life.

WOW!  For some reason the timing of that and the challenge that went with it, had me thinking and reflecting for weeks.   During this period, I realized all of the dreams I had were in fact possible but it was my own shyness and insecurities that were holding me back and nothing else.

So.. I decided to step out of my own self built shadows and find the thing that makes me shine and take centre stage of my life.  Since that time, I have no trouble taking risks and scouting out opportunities to learn, grow and make a difference.  I have had wins and losses along the way but I know that I will never stop trying to find the light and live fully.


Sunday, April 13, 2014

FIGURE IT OUT

Dig deep and figure out what makes you tick.

What are the things that give you passion and purpose?   What fills your heart with joy and drives your enthusiasm?  Find that out and go there...and FAST!

My personal mission statement is "Love what you do and live like you mean it and help others do the same". When you are more focused and intentional about who you are and where you want to be... well that is good for everyone... especially YOU!

Wishing you a great day!
Paula


Saturday, April 12, 2014

DEVOTE TIME TO THINGS THAT MATTER MOST

You can have the best career or business in the world but who do you choose to share your world with?   Who are the go to people that mean something to you and make your life richer having them a part of it.

Never underestimate the power of surrounding yourself with people who love you and fill your world with joy.

It does matter. More than you may realize.  Always make time for the people and things that matter the most in life.  You may not get a second chance.





Friday, April 11, 2014

IN RETROSPECT

Life is an interesting journey isn't it?

The road is certainly steep and a hard climb sometimes, but when given the chance to look back and reflect on lessons learned and experiences had, there is always something to be gained out of it.

During the last few years, I have come to realize that hard work, focus and determination do not always win.   Sometimes you just lose. What I continue to learn is that those moments of adversity or failure build character, resilience and teach you very difficult and important lessons.

There is no way to go back, but there is always a way to go forward and you can never be faulted for trying to move forward.


Thursday, April 10, 2014

TESTIMONIAL - Embracing Life

How blessed was I to receive a message a number of weeks ago sharing that my posts are making a difference.  Here is a sweet letter from Melanie, a faithful, heart filled with hope and dreams, woman who has made the decision to start living her life more fully.  

Her letter reads:

"Hi Paula.  Quick note to say I made some changes in my life last year.  One of your posts was a huge kick in the butt, saying something to the effect of 'stop being a howling dog and fix the problem'...I finally did what I had to do and quit my job and went back to school for some quick fast track upgrading and now have a job I absolutely LOVE!  It is amazing how working at a job you have passion for makes a world of difference.  It is a job I would do for free if I didn't have bills and food to pay for.   Thank-you for your post."




I have no doubt that sweet Melanie had many inspirations along the way as that's what life is all about.

Her check-in with me this week made me smile.  

She bought a funky pair of rubber boots and decided to try it out and grab some moments of FUN. Who said traipsing around in rubber boots and looking for puddles is just for kids.  

It makes me so happy to see when people make the decision to start embracing life and making decisions that are right for them, how life can change for the better.


Today I celebrate Melanie. An incredible smart, kind and bright woman who is taking a new lease on life and creating moments that mean something to her. I have no doubt that even in the little things she is inspiring others around her.


A GOOD LAUGH GOES A LONG WAY!

Did you know that laughter is good for your health and well being?
Maybe it just takes having a little humour in your life to lift you up and those around you.

Here are some cool facts about the benefits of laughter.

1.  Laughing releases endorphins and that brings about a sense of well being.  
Endorphins are your body's natural pain killer, and when released through laughter, it is like a natural drug to help you feel so much better.

2.  Laughing gives you a workout!   If you laugh 100 times a day it equals a 15 minute cardio workout!  Laughter lowers your blood pressure and it also works your abdominal area diaphragm, facial, leg, back and respiratory muscles.

3.  Laugh your way to better health.  When you laugh, your immune system is activated thus helping to fight off any unwanted intruders in your body.

4. Laughter builds great team and boosts creativity! There are many team building benefits with laughter. Whether is at work with family or with friends, those that take time to laugh together, feel better about who they spend time with are more apt to problem solve and find ways to do things better.




Wednesday, April 9, 2014

THE COMPETITIVE EDGE

Do you want to get ahead of the competition?  

If so, the best defence is smart thinking and strategic decisions.  To do this you must be clear in your thinking, strong in your passion and have a burning desire to win.

Whether it is just for you or you are leading a team, keep your eyes focused forward and run the race with your best effort extended.

You may not be the first to get there this time, but with focused dedication will you continue to refine yourself and develop solid leadership capabilities to lead you through any waters.


Tuesday, April 8, 2014

WHERE THERE IS LIGHT

Do you ever have those days, weeks or even months where you feel so clouded and just can't seem to find your way out of the mire of mess you are in?

I always believe there is a solution to be found... or many times stumbled upon... and in my books there is always hope.

If you feel like life is a bit dark right now, just remember to keep looking for the light.   It is somewhere waiting for you to find it.

Don't be afraid.

Just put yourself in another direction and there you may find that sliver of hope to lead you out of the darkness.


Monday, April 7, 2014

THE SIMPLE PLEASURES

Take time to fill yourself with things that soothe your soul and make you feel strong and free.

So often we go through life and the first things we forget about is our health and our state of mind.   Making your health and your mind a priority is going to set the stage for a strong foundation for being able to handle what comes in front of you.

Turn what is viewed as a burden into a pleasure and watch yourself become pleasantly surprised ... and motivated to win!


Sunday, April 6, 2014

YOUR LIFE AS AN ORCHESTRA

Consider your life as a wonderfully appointed orchestra.

One that is made up of many different people who, at different times, make their entrance and exit in their own special way. At the end of the day each person plays a unique part, some longer and some shorter, in the beautiful symphony called "Your Life".

When we allow God to orchestrate those people, situations and scenarios, the result is a sound that is perfectly written for each one of us.

Trust God's perfect timing to bring the people we need in our life at the right time for the right purpose. Those people create moments that when pulled together in the bigger picture, result in a moving symphonic sound that is uniquely ours.  A fully conducted movement that seamlessly flows from one tempo to another and somewhere along the way, we can understand that the difficult times were part of the deep beauty of this symphony.

When we choose to appoint God as the ultimate conductor of life, that is when amazing moments happen. When our breathe is taken away and we are moved beyond words;  through an emotional journey that drives deep understanding, gratitude and aligns our faith with the One who has made all and directs all.

You don't have to understand it all but you do have to trust in the process.  As it is in the process of life that results in what size orchestra will be appointed for your specially written symphony.

Imagine what the sound would be?


Saturday, April 5, 2014

FINDING PEACE

Sometimes we get so busy that the clutter in our head and the overthinking, the worrying and the anxiety gets so heavy.   You know those days when everything is piled up and you can make excuses for everything and anything that is not going your way.

When we finally happen upon those precious moments of peace, a quiet knowing or realization has a way of bringing understanding to our respective situation.

Do not underestimate the power and clarity that stillness brings.   Those are the defining moments where reinvention and rejuvenation happen.


Friday, April 4, 2014

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Dedicated to those that are struggling with life.

Sometimes knowing that you are not alone is 90% of the battle.  Believing with others and spending time with them during their time of need may not seem much to you but may mean the world to the person receiving it.


THE POWER OF GRATITUDE

Embracing gratitude is an art.  It really is. Learning to be grateful in all things is a discipline that, if developed, can substantially change your viewpoint, your health and your whole view and demeanour about life in general.

I believe that we don't practice gratitude enough.  The more we condition ourselves in learning this, the more power we have to show empathy, kindness, consideration and love.  It also releases the mind of the clutter that worry and negativity bring so we can make clearer and more confident decisions.



Thursday, April 3, 2014

ARE YOU A GLIMMER OR A HUE?

It's good for the soul to stay positive.  It lifts your spirit, gives you hope and raises your consciousness that somehow everything is going to be okay and work out for the good.

The other side of this equation is choosing to be a doubting Thomas.  The person who is constantly worrying or doubting that good can come from of a situation and that in the end the outcome will be positive in some way.

Perception is an interesting thing.

How we perceive our world and the people around us, directly affects the decisions and choices we make in life.

I am choosing to share a glimmer of hope today. What about you?



Wednesday, April 2, 2014

PREPARATION FOR THIS MOMENT

There is something to be said for tenacity.

That strong commitment to stick to it and win.  To be persistent and build resiliency as you strive for something that is seemingly out of reach at this moment.

There is something to be said about arriving at the place of success, whether it be the new promotion, the sports win, achieving a personal best at something or even welcoming a new child into this world.

Every major milestone in life has smaller events that have happened along the way to prepare you. Whether they are good moments or not so good moments, there is no one I know that would offer to change their journey once they are through it and take time to reflect on their life so far.

Your journey is designed just for you and continues to refine you into the person you are meant to be.

Stick with it. Don't give up and press on! You are preparing for something amazing.


Tuesday, April 1, 2014

TAKING ANOTHER SHOT

Failure never lasts.

The feeling of missing the mark, letting people down and not fulling your vision might have a mighty big sting.  For a time it may seem as though nothing is going to work out.  Take a deep breath and take a look at your situation.   All you need is a little repositioning and to get back on your feet so you can take another shot and try agin.

Entrepreneurs always show amazing resiliency to me.  The stories of coming back from loss to massive success or of overcoming are just stories that impact and inspire.

Never lose hope of your situation.   Just get prepared to take another shot and if that one misses, do it again.