Anchored Decisions

In this episode, I’m joined by Kimberly Christian, a licensed clinical social worker and faith-based counselor. Kimberly introduces us to her program, The Christian Method, which combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with biblical principles to help people understand and transform their thoughts and feelings using CBT techniques.

Kimberly delves into the crucial difference between thoughts and feelings, emphasizing that thoughts are complex narratives, while feelings are simple, single words. She shares insights into thought retraining—how changing negative or distorted thinking patterns can significantly impact mental health and behavior. The conversation also touches on the importance of managing intense feelings before making big decisions and how understanding our thought patterns can lead to better decision-making and emotional well-being.

Through practical examples and personal experiences, Kimberly highlights how aligning our thoughts with scripture, like Romans 12:2, can lead to clarity and spiritual growth. This episode is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to integrate faith and psychology to improve their mental and spiritual health.

Key points:

- Difference Between Thoughts and Feelings: Thoughts: Complex narratives and beliefs; Feelings: Simple, single-word emotions

- Thought Retraining: Must learn to change negative or distorted thinking patterns, recognize when we’re listening to lies

- Managing Intense Feelings: Importance of addressing emotions — positive or negative — before making decisions. Big feeling = no big decision.

- H.A.L.T. Acronym: Pause before you take action and consider, am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. Lauren added in: Hormonal

Romans 12:2 - Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Jeremiah 17:9 - The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

2 Corinthians 10:5 - Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Links Mentioned:

Kimberly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlychristianlcsw

Kimberly's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kimberlychristianlcsw

Kimberly's Facebook group — Belief Based Healing Hub https://www.facebook.com/groups/330062763001650

Free guide: Discover How to Reduce Feelings of Depression & Anxiety for People of Faith

https://pages.kimberlychristianlcsw.com/free-guide-1

From ad — Decision Compass: www.anchoreddecisions.com/compass

About Kimberly:

Kimberly Christian is a licensed clinical social worker and faith based clinical counselor. She is committed to helping Christians practically adopt a biblical worldview through the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy.

Her work focuses on the relationship between thoughts and feelings, aligning them with God's word to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Believing in the transformative power of integrating mental health and faith, Kimberly is passionate about empowering those struggling with mental health issues to manage their symptoms confidently, knowing their Christian faith complements therapeutic practices. Kimberly also has a YouTube channel, a Facebook group, and a signature program called the Christian Method.

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

Lauren provides an update on her home renovation — sharing how they've been trying a bunch of different options for her kitchen layout. She thought she was being indecisive, but then realized it was a different culprit: perfectionism.

Lauren dives into the differences between perfectionism and indecision, and gives some examples of each, to help you determine which you struggle with, so you can problem-solve the best way to move forward and make decisions.

Key differences: Indecision often stems from fear, while perfectionism is rooted in control and a desire for flawlessness. Perfectionists are often indecisive because they fear less-than-perfect outcomes that don’t meet their standards, vision or expectations.

Lauren gives some other episode numbers to listen to if you struggle with indecision, and some tips for making faster decisions for when you struggle with perfectionism.

Links Mentioned:

Episode 11: Building your dream home: 6 steps to discovering your style, choosing aesthetics, and envisioning your design to create a house you love

Episode 7: 6 strategies to overcoming decision fatigue

Episode 9: Research steps to help you feel confident

Episode 10: How to envision your decisions

From ad: Download your free Decision Compass for setting the lens from which you make decisions

Show notes: www.anchoreddecisions.com/18

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Brenda Yoder, a licensed mental health counselor, elementary school counselor, speaker, former teacher, podcaster, and author. Brenda shares insights from her books, including her latest, "Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life." We delve into the wisdom of past generations, the importance of practical skills and problem-solving, and how to balance modern technology with traditional values. Brenda's expertise and heartfelt advice provide valuable lessons for navigating today's fast-paced world while staying grounded in timeless principles.

Key points:

Books Overview:

Balance, Busyness and Not Doing It All: A guide for moms managing the busiest season of raising kids.

Fledge: Launching Your Kids Without Losing Your Mind: For moms in the transition between a full house and empty nest.

Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life: Brenda’s latest book focusing on timeless practical skills and values.

Folk Knowledge and Practical Wisdom: The importance of experiential knowledge and problem-solving skills in today's society.

Role of AI and Technology: Balancing modern technology with maintaining human capacity for problem-solving and critical thinking.

Common Sense and Values: How to use discernment and stay true to personal values amidst technological advancements.

Contentment: Exploring the human struggle with contentment and its impact on decision-making and life satisfaction.

Practical Tips:

Reflect on past experiences to build confidence.

Use journaling and conversations to reinforce personal growth and problem-solving.

Define and prioritize personal values to guide decisions.

Simplify life by focusing on a few trusted sources of information and inspiration.

Final Thoughts: Embracing a balanced approach to life that honors both modern conveniences and traditional wisdom for a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Links Mentioned:

Balance, Busyness and Not Doing It All: https://amzn.to/3Vy9tk3

Fledge: Launching Your Kids Without Losing Your Mind: https://amzn.to/3RZhfm7

Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life: https://amzn.to/3VRxLXi

Brenda’s Website: https://brendayoder.com/

Brenda’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brendayoderspeaks/

Brenda’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brendayoderspeaker/

Life Beyond the Picket Fence Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-the-picket-fence-podcast/id1454422863

Midlife Moms Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-moms-podcast/id1559302179

About Brenda:

Brenda L. Yoder is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, elementary school counselor, speaker, former teacher, podcaster, and author of several books: Uncomplicated: Simple Secrets for a Compelling Life; Fledge: Launching Your Kids Without Losing Your Mind; and Balance, Busyness, and Not Doing It All.

She has been featured in Guideposts Mornings with Jesus devotionals; Chicken Soup for the Soul books and The Washington Post. She hosts the Midlife Moms and Life Beyond the Picket Fence podcasts and the Midlife Moms Facebook Group. Brenda twice won the Touchstone Award for teachers.

Brenda is a former History teacher and lover of antiques, gardens, front porch rockers, and her grandkids. She and her husband, Ron, raised four children on their family dairy farm in northern Indiana, where they currently raise Bernese Mountain dogs, goats, chickens, and cattle and host an Airbnb.

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel Baker, a speaker, coach, and author dedicated to helping women reclaim their time and sanity. Rachel shares her journey to becoming a beacon of support for overwhelmed women, including those managing chronic pain, special needs, and ADHD. She discusses the importance of creating breathing room in our lives and the necessity of rest and reflection in decision-making.

Rachel emphasizes the significance of self-care, not as a luxury, but as an essential practice for maintaining mental, physical, and spiritual health. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, she inspires women to set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and live more intentionally. Tune in to learn how to break free from the hustle culture, balance productivity with self-care, and ultimately pour more into others from a place of fullness.

Key points:

Rachel shares her journey of transitioning from teaching to coaching, driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by overwhelmed women.

The conversation delves into the importance of finding balance amidst the demands of life, including the hustle culture and the pressure to constantly achieve.

Rachel emphasizes the significance of creating breathing room in life to reflect and make intentional decisions.

Decision-making is discussed as a process that requires both action and reflection, highlighting the necessity of rest in this cycle.

Examples from Rachel's own experiences and insights from scripture are shared to illustrate the transformative power of rest and reflection.

The conversation navigates through the concept of self-care, debunking misconceptions and emphasizing its role in maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

Practical tips are provided for integrating rest and reflection into daily life, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing self-care to effectively serve others.

Links Mentioned:

Rachel's Website: https://racheldbaker.com

Rachel's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachel.d.baker

How's All That Working For Ya? podcast: https://pod.link/1677757957

Renewal Retreat waitlist: https://racheldbaker.myflodesk.com/renewal-retreat

Rachel's quiz: What is Your True Overwhelm Personality Type? https://racheldbaker.com/quiz/

Matthew 14:23: Jesus went away early in the morning to spend time in prayer with the father.

From ad: Decision Compass to help you make intentional decisions: www.anchoreddecisions.com/compass

About Rachel:

Rachel D. Baker is a speaker, coach, and author who is obsessed with helping women reclaim their time and sanity. As a chronic pain & illness warrior, special needs mom, and woman with ADHD, Rachel deeply understands the battle of doing All The Things for everyone else while trying to keep your head above water. Now she shares sanity-saving strategies, resources, and scriptures with women through her podcast, “How’s All That Working For Ya?”, encouraging you to create some breathing room in this one and only life. Her encouragement and sass cut through the fluff and speak directly to the hearts of overwhelmed women with a mix of humor, vulnerability, and no-nonsense truths.

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

Getting a stubborn person to change their mind or even consider an alternative perspective can be a challenge... until now! Learn how one simple question — paired with commitment bias — can transform resistant attitudes into receptive conversations. This approach sets a positive, non-confrontational tone, making it easier to discuss challenging topics without feeling defensive or offended. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn family member, friend, or colleague (or are the stubborn one yourself) these insights will help you foster more open, constructive, and engaging conversations around topics you disagree over.

Key Points:

Lauren shares the story that inspired this episode: how SHE was the stubborn one and needed to be more open-minded with a decision related to their kitchen remodel

The key question to ask first: "Are you willing to be open-minded?"

Most people want to be seen as open-minded and will likely agree to hear the other person’s perspective or argument

This simple question helps set a positive, non-confrontational tone that reduces defensiveness

Once someone commits to being open-minded, they are more likely to actually be open-minded thanks to commitment bias

This method avoids confrontation and encourages genuine listening

Application in various scenarios:

This technique can be applied to discussions on controversial topics such as politics, climate change, or personal decisions

It's about planting seeds and encouraging further research and reflection — not manipulation

As Christians, these principles can also be used to introduce the idea of God and biblical truths to those who are resistant

Links Mentioned:

Episode 11: Building your dream home: 6 steps to discovering your style, choosing aesthetics, and envisioning your design to create a house you love

Questioning to Confident Decision Guide: www.anchoreddecisions.com/decisionguide

Use code "podcast" at checkout for 10% off your order

Show notes: www.anchoreddecisions.com/15

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

In this episode, I chat with Michelle Croyle, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Abundant Freedom Counseling, on how parents can help their adult children make good decisions. We talk about finding the balance between offering guidance and allowing their adult children to make their own decisions... and how this process actually starts while their children are young, not after they've left the nest. We also dive into how to mend adult-child relationships that might have been severed, as well as how to approach in-laws with advice when you feel the need to intervene.

Key points:

· Start setting the tone for a mutually respectful relationship with your children from a young age.

· Model reflective listening and saying yes whenever possible, only saying no for reasons of sin or safety... or a few other occasions with an explanation as to why.

· Recognize and embrace the uniqueness of each child, fostering individual relationships with them.

· Create an environment where children feel safe, heard, and respected, allowing them to make their own choices and learn from their experiences.

· Approach difficult conversations with love, understanding, and a willingness to listen, focusing on the present and building trust over time.

Join the conversation as Michelle provides valuable insights and practical advice for parents navigating the complexities of guiding their adult children through life's decisions.

Links Mentioned:

Michelle’s Website: www.mentalhealthforchristianwomen.com

Michelle’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mental-health-for-christian-women-empowering-your-freedom/id1527510700

Michelle’s Free Cheat Sheet for a stronger relationship with your children: Email [email protected]

"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14

"Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." Proverbs 27:6

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young” 1 Timothy 4:12

“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins” 1 Peter 4:8

About Michelle:

Michelle Croyle is a licensed professional counselor and the founder of Abundant Freedom Counseling, her private practice in Pittsburgh. She specializes in treating Christian women suffering from trauma and anxiety. Michelle is also the founder of Mental Health for Christian Women, which includes the Mental Health for Christian Women podcast, a growing membership community, and a hub for mental health resources, and she can be found at MentalHealthforChristianWomen.com.

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

In this episode, we dive deep into how to guide your kids toward making good decisions. Join me and life coach, Entrice Rowe, as she shares expert advice on nurturing your child's decision-making skills, and the foundation needed for learning to make good choices. We discuss how to not overstep when letting your kids have some autonomy, what to do when you need to intervene, and how to model good decision-making for your children. Entrice also shares advice on how to help your children make decisions from a Christian faith perspective, keeping God first and following Biblical principles. Tune in to discover how you can help shape your child's future through thoughtful guidance and support.

Key points:

· Understand your own values and what's important

· Establish foundational principles for your family, and share them with your kids

· As your kids get older, bring them into the decision-making process

· See what your children's strengths, weaknesses and personality are so you can tailor your support to each one individually

· Start giving your kids choices when they're little so they can start to learn to make decisions — and leave some margin in your schedule to allow time for that

· If you have a child who tends to make poor choices, then give them limited options to choose from that you select and would be happy with

· Model for your kids that you are all on a team and need to work together. It's not just mom and dad's house. Giving kids agency and responsibilities within the home helps them take ownership and make good decisions

· You make time for the important things — teaching life skills

· When facing a situation where your child doesn't agree with your stance on something and your boundary — it all comes back to what you value as a family

· If you want your children to honor and respect you, it starts with first honoring and respecting them. Show them you trust them.

· Practicing making good choices starts at home

· When your children make poor choices, you have to listen and not judge, to keep the communication open

Links Mentioned:

· Decision Compass for setting the foundation for your decisions: www.anchoreddecisions.com/compass

· Entrice's Instagram: Entrice's Instagram: www.instagram.com/entrice_rowe

· Entrice's website: entricerowe.com

· Entrice's Book "You Are Equipped: How to Do the Hard Things with Grace, Love, and Grit": https://www.amazon.com/You-Are-Equipped-Things-Grace/dp/B084BY2DC7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=GZBID5VVM52P&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hfis4GRMxpvOve_3NET4Yg.kGvITunEora7eigPF4aK07A1T6uwRO8_huB47s6GPW0&dib_tag=se&keywords=you%27re+equipped+entrice+rowe&qid=1715217548&sprefix=you%27re+equipped+entrice+rowe%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1

· I AM MOM — free online "Momference" registration: anchoreddecisions.com/iammom

About Entrice:

Entrice is a certified life coach with years of experience in helping women transform their mindset from fear to faith. In addition to being a life coach, entrice is a writer, speaker, and author of forthcoming book, You Are Equipped: how you can do the hard things with grace, love, and grit. Entrice and her husband have four kids and reside in Jacksonville, Florida, where they enjoy serving their community and their local church.

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

In this episode, we explore the concept of seeking divine confirmation when facing important decisions. Drawing from the biblical story of Gideon laying a fleece before God to confirm his calling, we dive into what "laying a fleece" could look like in our lives today. Does it signify a lack of trust, or is it simply a means to ensure we're accurately hearing from God? Life coach Sasha Star Robertson shares personal stories of how she has applied the concept, from buying a house to navigating business decisions. We talk about how God's word is a lamp to our feet, illuminating our path one step at a time. Additionally, we explore the significance of asking God to clearly signal whether to proceed or halt, ensuring alignment with His plan and direction.

Links Mentioned:
· I AM MOM — free online "Momference" registration: anchoreddecisions.com/iammom

· Sasha's podcast: Intentional Momlife with Jesus: momlifewithjesus.com

· Sasha's website: intentionalabundance.life

· Sasha's Facebook Group — Mom Life Balance: facebook.com/groups/IntentionalAbundance

· Judges 6-8 - Story of Gideon

· Psalm 119:105 - Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path

· Lauren's episode on Sasha's podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4xy76fqm42E8HPAWEbc0FS?si=li-VkW_iSWq7di7clOKqnQ

· Sasha and her husband's podcast — Faithful Family Fortress: faithfulfamilyfortress.com

· Show notes: anchoreddecisions.com/12

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

Ready for a home remodel, renovation, or building new? Thinking of redecorating? There are so many decisions to make when it comes to designing your dream home. In this episode I'll help you discover your unique style and envision the perfect design for your dream home through six essential steps. Explore ideas, visit showrooms, and gather samples of wood, countertops, paint, and fabrics to uncover your personal aesthetic. Dive into setting goals for your space, selecting materials, and determining your decor priorities. Learn how to tie everything together for a cohesive look that reflects your vision and creates a home you'll love.

Links Mentioned:
· Episode 10: How to Envision Your Decision
· Episode 2: When your heart and head disagree on a decision
· Pinterest (follow me @ www.Pinterest.com/anchoreddecisions)
· Houzz.com
· Lindsay Dean of Frills & Drills www.instagram.com/frills_and_drills
· My Instagram: www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
· Show notes: www.anchoreddecisions.com/11

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.

Struggling with a decision because you're not sure how it'll turn out? While you can never know exactly how things will play out, there are steps you can take gain clarity for each outcome... which will help you make more aligned, informed decisions. In this episode we explore 4 steps towards envisioning your decision to help you choose the best path. Minimize your risks and regrets through conducting proper decision research, visualizing the short-term and long-term impacts of each option, and strategically planning for what you desire most.

Links Mentioned:
· Episode 9: Research steps before making a decision
· Episode 2: When your heart and head disagree on a decision
· Episode 3: SAIL Method and 5 impact areas
· Episode 5: Plan, Pray, Pursue
· Questioning to Confident General Decision Guide: www.anchoreddecisions.com/decisionguide use code “podcast” for 10% off your purchase
· From outro: Free decision compass: www.anchoreddecisions.com/compass
· Show notes: www.anchoreddecisions.com/10

Connect with me on social media:
www.instagram.com/anchoreddecisions
www.facebook.com/anchoreddecisions

Check out my website and decision guide shop:
www.anchoreddecisions.com
www.anchoreddecisions.com/shop

*Note: Some links might be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission from the referral purchase at no extra expense to you. I only promote items I trust and believe in. Clicking these links helps support my show.