DO YOU TRUST HIM?

Trust in the Lord with all thy might and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and HE shall direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6

This is one of my favorite scriptures. But I sometimes don't abide by it. How many times have you said, "I'm putting it in God's hands," only to take it back and possibly make things worse? How many times have to worried over something that is out of your control? Most of the time money is involved, right? Or maybe it's family drama or job stress.

Jesus's teachings tell us not to worry, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matt 6: 26-27 But how many of us heed this advice? If you worry all the time, you are definitely not trusting God. And you are truthfully wasting your time and energy. But this is part of the human condition. Some of us actually are able to truly walk by faith and not by sight, and enjoy lower level of stress and happier lives as a result. What about you? Are you a worry wort? Or do you trust God to lead and guide you, and believe that even when the circumstances don't look like it, that things will work out to your good in the end?

Here are 4 tips to improve your faith.

1. Be grateful. Most of us when we pause to think about it have much more to be grateful for than we assume. There is a saying, "I stopped complaining about the shoes I wear when I met a man with no feet." When was the last time you counted your blessings? If this feels difficult, try keeping a daily gratitude journal. It will help you realize all that God is already blessing you with, instead of the difficulties you are facing.



2. Help someone. We all have our burdens, and sometimes it feel unbearable. I don't know what your situation is. Maybe you are struggling financially, having a problem at work or with your family, or fighting depression. Sometimes it helps to take the focus off of yourself and see how you can contribute to someone else's life. It doesn't have to be monetary. Sometimes the gift of your time, a smile or an understanding ear can help ease another's burden - and yours as well. Try it!



3. Praise God! Cultivate a spirit like Paul, who was able to glorify God even from a prison cell. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18



4. Break your routine. Sometimes a fresh perspective can make all the difference. Take a new route to work. Try out a new recipe, or take a bath instead of a shower. Build 10 minutes into your day JUST FOR YOU. Play music while you are working on your computer. Listen to an audio book on the way to work or indulge in a frivolous magazine. Eat ice cream! Whatever can bring a smile to your face and take your mind off your troubles is worth trying.

Remember - most of this is more about attitude than anything. When you begin looking at the good instead of the bad, it's easier to trust that God is working it out on your behalf.

Blessings to you...

Life comes at you fast...

This phrase was made famous by Nationwide Insurance. Doesn't it feel that way sometimes? Our world has become a 24/7 instant acccess, always-on society. There are so many things that compete for our time and energy. Have you ever ended a day literally out of breath? It's almost as if you end up holding your breath or something.

In this hectic pace, what do you do to slow it down a bit? Here are a few tips:

1. Breathe. Literally. Take 3 deep cleansing breaths - deep into your lungs. Oxygen is a life force and vital to our health and vitality. Deep breathing can detoxify your body, relieve tension, strengthens your heart and improves your immune system, among other benefits. Read more here:
http://www.onepowerfulword.com/2010/10/18-benefits-of-deep-breathing-and-how.html

2. Build some "me time" into your schedule. What? You say you have no time for that? I say, YOU CAN'T AFFORD NOT TO. It is vital to spend some time taking care of yourself - even if it's 30 minutes here or there. Sometimes something as simple as a walk in the park (without your iPod), a talk with an old friend, or a bubble bath can do wonders to restore your equilibrium.

3. Spend time with people you love. It can be easy to yield to the demands of our lives... such as work and other commitments. Sometimes the people we are closest to pay the price for our overloaded schedules. We can look up and our relationships have suffered - when really they are what should matter the most.

I know it sometimes can feel that you don't have options, that you are constantly in "I have to" mode. But YOU are in control of your life. Sometimes we have less flexibility than others, but there are always options. You CAN afford to make yourself a priority in the midst of it all. Try it. You will not regret it.

Peace and blessings, Trina

Who are you?

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about what matters.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

When asked that question, how do you normally respond? Most people talk about their children or other family members, where they are from, or their occupation. But do any of those things describe who YOU are… inside? If this is your typical response - try again. Take a moment to think about it. Think about what makes YOU tick. So let me ask again… Who are you? I hope I get to talk to you to hear your answer. In the meantime I encourage you to take a moment to really answer for yourself, and to make some decisions about what this means about “what’s next” for you. If you journal, write about it!

My next question is… are you doing what you were meant to do here on earth? I believe that God put us all here for a purpose, and that one of life’s great quests. How is it going for you? Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them.” I pray that each of us has a much richer experience than that! Are you singing your song?

I am watching a television special on the dedication of the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial. It’s very inspiring. This was a man who was unwavering in his commitment to standing for his purpose – and ultimately was killed because of it. Not everyone has the opportunity to make such an enormous impact as Dr. King, but I submit that we should all strive for living our lives more fully. As a coach, I am inspired by people like Dr. King, and also by others who choose to fully embrace their own identities. For some it’s through adventure – going on fantastic trips or taking on interesting challenges. For some it’s through creative ventures – song, painting, writing, etc. For some it is by being fully present in whatever they do… whether it’s baking a loaf of bread, playing games with their children, or volunteering for a charity. You may have heard the expression, “Do you”. I encourage you to do JUST THAT.

Here are a few ideas for getting started.

Introducing my new group coaching series! My life. My time. My turn!
This is a 10-week program for self-starters who are ready to kick things up a notch! The group will be limited to 10 people to maintain intimacy. During each session we will explore a specific aspect of what it takes to live life on your own terms, without thinking of it as “being selfish”. You can sign up for a session at a time, or the whole series for a 10% discount.

To register visit: http://fallcoachingseries.eventbrite.com/.

I hope can join us – or please feel free to pass the word on to a friend. I am hosting a free intro call this coming Tuesday, 8/30 at 8pm EST. Call-in info is below.
• Conference Dial-in Number: (559) 546-1000
• Participant Access Code: 996761#

Questions? Call Trina at 202-384-0797 or email me at tramsey43@gmail.com.

Strengthsfinders 2.0

This is an interesting assessment developed by Gallup that helps people to identify their strengths, rather than personalities. The idea is that by focusing on our strengths, we can live a more fulfilling and enjoyable life (instead of focusing on improving weaknesses). I recently took the assessment, and found that my top 5 strengths are: Positivity, Individualization, Relator, Woo (stands for winning others over – this one makes me giggle), and Communication. I found it very affirming considering my decision to pursue coaching. You also learn about ways to further utilize your strengths.

Learn more at: http://strengths.gallup.com/110659/Homepage.aspx

Note: This assessment tool comes in two forms. The book describes all of the strengths (there are 34) and includes a unique code to allow you to take the assessment online. For this reason it is NOT a good idea to buy a used book because it won’t include the code. Alternately you can purchase a code online and forego the book for a slightly lower price.

Until next time, be safe, and “Do YOU”!

Fondly,
Trina

5 Things to Do To Make Your Dreams a Reality

DREAMERS ENCOURAGED!

“We all have our own life to pursue, our own kind of dream to be weaving. And we all have some power to make wishes come true, as long as we keep believing.”- Louisa May Alcot

When was the last time you allowed yourself to dream? I’m not talking about the dreams that you have at night, but dreams of your future. The ideas that you hold close to your heart but may be too scared to even utter to yourself. Do you have any dreams like that?

I will admit it… I am a dreamer. I believe in the power of human possibility and I am encouraged and energized each time I hear a story or meet someone who has stepped out on faith and taken the path “less traveled”.

So again I ask… when is the last time you let yourself dream? Did you do anything about it? Are you living in that reality or taking active steps to realize your dreams? If so, CONGRATULATIONS. I would love to hear about your experience! If you don’t mind sharing please contact me at tramsey43@gmail.com.

If you haven’t taken a step to realize your dreams, what’s holding you back? Is it fear of failure, negative self-talk, or not knowing how to get started? I firmly believe that in order to live life more fully, you must do the following things:

5 Things to Do To Make Your Dreams a Reality.

1. Remember that you have the power to choose your response to any situation. Perspective is a powerful tool, and Faith in God and in yourself makes all the difference! Is your glass half full or half empty?

2. Build your “risk taking” muscle. Challenge yourself to take on new things and new experiences. Start with small things (like going places solo, talking to someone you are interested in), and move up to bigger and bigger challenges (like writing that business plan or deciding to move to a new city).

3. Take time to tap into your inner voice. When is the last time you spent some quiet time alone? The pace of our world is lightning fast and so much competes for our attention! Intentionally spend time getting to know you… what makes you tick? Journal about it!

4. Cultivate a positive attitude. This is KEY. You can’t embrace your dreams if you are always thinking negatively. Work on shifting your perspective and after a while it will become habit!

5. Take action! What is ONE SMALL STEP that you can take TODAY to get started? Do it! And tomorrow take ANOTHER step, and so on… Dreams can only be realized if you act on them!

About Trina:

Trina is a busy mother of two, fundraiser by day and career and life coach by night. Perspectives Plus Coaching works with individuals and groups to help them set goals, overcome challenges, and take things to the next level! Available for speaking engagements. For more information visit http://tinyurl.com/coachTrina or email Trina at tramsey43@gmail.com

GRATITUDE

Have you ever wanted something so badly you could literally TASTE it? You put all your energy into the pursuit of your goal, to the point that it becomes all-consuming. Focus is a good thing, right? I think that's true - for the most part. Sometimes, though, it is possible to be so focused on that thing that you want that it breeds disdain and dissatisfaction or your current situation. And THAT, my friends, is NOT good. It can keep us from enjoying the simple things about life, and from counting our blessings.

What's your attitude towards change? Some people avoid it at all cost, and others enjoy the excitement of something new. I am the type of person that embraces change - almost too much. The new, "shiny" exciting things tend to attract me much more than the day-to-day routine. In my case, I can allow the pursuit of the new to overshadow what can keep me happy and grounded in my current life. I have to remind myself to slow down and enjoy what IS. Right now. Sometimes when we are facing challenges, it's hard to see the blessings that we sometimes take for granted. By writing this, I am intentionally tapping into gratitude as an anchoring point for my life.

How about you? What are you perhaps taking for granted? Here's my challenge to you today: Make a list of 5 things that you are grateful for. No matter how big or small. Looking outside, one of the things I'm grateful for is the sunny day. The onset of spring is always rejuvenating to me! I am also grateful for having some close friends that I can share my life with - along with my family. I am grateful that my kids help me stay in touch with my silly side - I literally had a "laugh til you cry" moment the other night - I needed it!

Friends, I encourage you to embrace life - even more fully than you already do. And start by cultivating your appreciation for the gift that is inherent to our time here on earth. If you are having trouble finding something to appreciate - DIG DEEPER. You'll be glad you did.

Peace & blessings,

Trina

3/17/11

On "Colored Girls" and Black Love

Today I saw Tyler Perry's "For Colored Girls", which was based on the play "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf" by Ntozake Shange. The show left me feeling somber and introspective. Without going into all the fine points, the movie profiled the lives of 7 Black women - each finding themselves in difficult circumstances. Most of the stories unfortunately center around bad relationships, which lead to sad - even tragic results. From date rape to back alley abortions to spousal/child abuse... one situation was more heart-wrenching than the last.

Although the movie is set in the present day, the original play was written in the 70s. I found myself hopefully pondering whether things are better now. But I was dismayed to actually realize that as a matter of fact, we still deal with abusive relationships (men on women and vice versa), love triangles, abortion and unwanted pregnancies, and othe themes explored in the movie. This in the midst of an over-caffeinated, "give me more, RIGHT NOW" society which seems to have lost its moral compass. One thing that has changed, though. I don't think that there is quite as much "blame it on the black man" mentality. At least I hope not. The themes explored in the movie are not unique to the black community.. but universal. Also, we have become alot more multi-cultural -
so couples cross color lines very often.

SO WHAT ABOUT BLACK LOVE?

It still nagged me to think about the idea of this movie being made without somehow catching us up with the times in this regard. I almost wished that there were some interracial relationships, so that it wasn't so much a "good Black woman being let down by Black men" dynamic.

When I look around, on one hand I see my fair share of single and divorced black women and men. But I also see my share of strong marriages who serve as rays of hope. And I see my share of amazingly talented, strong and loving Black men... along with beautiful vibrant, talented Black women.

So for my vote... I enjoyed the movie - it was very well made and interesting tribute to the beautiful, often haunting poetry that Ms. Shange originially wrote - delivered in the midst of a motion picture. Very strong performances were delivered by all.

But being the perrennial optimist that I am, I still believe in the power of Black love.

Walking the Talk....

Most people who know me understand that I am absolutely passionate about my commitment to breast cancer research - with the ultimate goal of one day finding a cure!

Today is day 2 of the 2010 Susan Komen 3Day for the Cure in Philadelphia. My team, the Bosom Angels, includes 5 beautiful and vivacious women who have committed to each raise $2300 or more and walk 60 miles over a 3 day weekend. We've collectively raised over $14,000 this year, and counting! I am so proud to be a part of this team, and in particular, of our team captain, Leesa, who is a singularly amazing woman.

This year, I won't lie, I'm hurting. I have planter faciitis(sp?) as a result of overly agressive training several weeks ago. I am feeling each and every mile that I walk. But that only makes the purposefulness of it even more real.

But the larger aspect of this entire experience is NOT about the walking, but about CONNECTING, about BEING. It's amazing to be in this atmosphere where over 2000 men and women commit to walk, and hundreds of volunteers come together for one single goal. Each year I am even more inspired. There is laughter, there are tears, there is determination, and let's not forget the dancing and outrageous outfits!

Here's the bigger question, which I was discussing with a fellow walker this morning. What if every day was like this? What if everyone was kind, open, trusting and completely connected to each moment of the day? What if people cheered for even the smallest accomplishment? What if competition was removed from the equation, and we all pulled together for a larger goal?

What if?

Well, why not?

What if each of us decided to follow these principles, starting now.

I'll give it a try! Won't you join me?