Hard On Purpose: Mindfulness

I remember growing up, I wanted to solve problems. Like in middle and HS I wanted a challenge. I'm not sure why but I wanted to see how much I could handle and most importantly if I could really do it. I tried to stay on top of my school work, if I made a mistake I would try to find where I went wrong and correct myself. I listened to other people's issues in order to try and help them find a solution.  As I have gotten older though.... I've strayed away from intentionally challenging myself because the challenges present themselves as I learn to "Adult" Listen.... BUDGETING??? When you have the spirit of shopping on you heavy? Talk about hard. But this was something I began to think about and what I see when I scroll social media at times; People challenging themselves in different areas whether it be in their crafts, their business, education, or whatever they are working on. It takes a level of self-awareness to intentionally challenge yourself to stretch and be better.

 In Psychology: Mindfulness is the ability to be self-aware and think about what you're thinking about in your present moment. Being intentional about stretching yourself is being mindful of yourself and willing to sit with being uncomfortable in that place of learning and growing. Sometimes you have to go back and re-evaluate where you went wrong and correct yourself OR being willing to take correction (which was something I really had to work on... Another blog for a new day 😉) What am I saying? Challenging yourself is a two fold process: Being willing to try something you have never done before AND being willing to accept that you are in unknown territory. Messing up is essential to growth but it also gives you the opportunity to learn. Occasionally take the opportunity to intentionally challenge yourself and it can be something small or large (if you watch a morning talk show, try reading a book?).... if you challenges arise anyway, don't run away. Sit with yourself in your uncomfortable place and be mindful of your current situation and how you feel/your thoughts. Evaluate, Give Yourself Grace (allow yourself the ability to mess up and be okay with it knowing that you aren't perfect),Continue and move forward.



**Let me know! What is the hardest part of challenging yourself? and How do you overcome it? Share your tips!

**Let me know! I'd love your feedback on the blog 😊 What material do you like? Is there topics you want me write about?

Until Next Time -XO 💛