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“We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort.” ~ Jesse Owens

Self-discipline can be one of the hardest habits to form. Yet it is one of the keys to successful achieving one’s dreams. The word “discipline” derives from the Latin word “disciplina” meaning to teaching, learning. But “discipline” is more closely associated with punishment. Perhaps this association has made it hard for us to implement self-discipline in our lives. For to do so, may be viewed as punishing ourselves in our minds.

I’m working on changing my view of self-discipline from one of self-punishment to one of self-reward. In order to achieve my goals, as Jesse Owens’ quote points out, I need to practice self-discipline. It is far easier for me to put off writing an article, or to not make a phone call that opens doors to another speaking opportunity. But taking those easy route will get me no closer to achieving my dream of sharing my message with others.

Each time I am tempted to go the easy route by avoiding applying self-discipline in my life, I have to check myself. Why am I avoiding taking action that would help lead to my success? What pain am I avoiding? Is it real? What is the worse that could happen if I take action? What is the worse that would happen; if I don’t? A majority of the time, the answer is self-disciplining myself brings about positive outcomes.

My friends and associates, Check Yourself to ensure that you maintain your journey to success and being a great leader by applying self-discipline. It is  a major key to Living Your Diamond Life, Your Life of Purpose!

Get your copy of Live a Diamond Life, Live a Life of Purpose: Diamond Cutters, today. Find out how my mentors and coaches helped me to be a better person, and how to apply these principles to your life.

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Looking out the window this morning, I saw large black clouds hovering over the landscape. They seemed pregnant with water waiting to burst raindrops upon us. At first, I was discouraged because I had my heart set on an early morning bike ride. This is part of my exercise regime to get my Diamond week off to a great start on Invincible Monday.

Then, I thought: “I’m not going to let some clouds ruin the pleasure of riding my bike and keeping healthy!” I grabbed my helmet and wheeled the bike outside. As I peddled the miles away, I felt the breeze mixed in with a few sprinkles. It was exhilarating. After a forty-minute ride, I headed home with a sense of accomplishment. The clouds didn’t pour out their content on me during the ride.

If I had allowed the first sight of the clouds to deter me from achieving one of my goals this morning, I wouldn’t experience that winning feeling I had from my ride. The lesson for today is to not let perceived obstacles keep you from reaching your goals. Forget the Clouds. Ride through, around or over them! Be determine to come out on the winning side!

Start your week off with an Inspirational Invincible Monday!

Get your copy of Live a Diamond Life, Live a Life of Purpose: Diamond Cutters, today. Find out how my mentors and coaches helped me to be a better person, and how to apply these principles to your life.

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To thine own self be true. Free yourself. Live your truth! Dare to Live Your Diamond Life. Live a Life of Purpose!

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Start at the Top

My mom told me to “Start conserving at the top. Don’t wait until youI get to the bottom to start saving.” This is a lesson she learned from someone with whom she worked. He told her that many people start trying to save something when it is near the bottom: i.e. dish detergent, toothpaste, etc. I would also add time to this list.

These words of wisdom made a big impression on me at a young age. Whenever, I heed them, I am able to save money and time. Whenever I didn’t, I wasted both. Recently, I purchased a piece of wild-caught salmon. It was a nice cut. I didn’t immediately cook or freeze the salmon. I left it in the fridge, too busy (so I thought) to do so. A few days later it was bad. I had to throw it out. Thus, losing a great piece of salmon, money and the time I spent earning the income to purchase it.

This makes me think about the many times we maybe trying to do something right when it is too late or near the bottom. In a recent interview with CNNMoney, Carlos Slim, Forbes Magazine second richest man in the world, said that people should not wait until they are 65 years and older to start living their lives. Start living that life you always wanted today. Why wait until you get to the bottom? Save the Salmon and Save Yourself! Let’s all Start at the TOP!!!

Wise words on Wisdom Wednesday – Live a Diamond Life. Live a Life of Purpose!

Get your copy of Live a Diamond Life, Live a Life of Purpose: Diamond Cutters, today. Find out how my mentors and coaches helped me to be a better person, and how to apply these principles to your life.

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Tarik Woodbine taken by  Alex Dean
Tarik Woodbine taken by Alex Dean

As parents, we are expected to be proud of our children as they accomplish different milestones in their lives. The first day of school, the various graduation levels (pre-K, kindergarten, etc.) and pursuing their dreams. I’m no exception. I am proud of my son as he pursue his dreams of being a screenwriter, director, actor and model (click on his picture to see one of his mini movies). I am proud of my niece and nephews who are now loving and responsible parents. I’m glad to see that I didn’t mess up the parenting thing that much!

The other day, the table was turned on me. My son sent me a text that he was proud of me! Imagine that. He said he appreciates me as his mom. He also encourages me in the pursuit of my dreams. That gave me such a boost. Funny thing is, I shouldn’t be surprised, because I’m very proud of my mom and her accomplishments. I guess part of being a parent is making our kids proud of us also. I will cherish that text I received from my son, because he makes me proud and happy to be his mom!

Happy Timeless Tuesday. Keep Living a Diamond Life. Live a Life of Purpose.

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