Welcome to the ultimate showdown of the year! While we gear up to root for your favorite teams this March Madness season, it's time to pause and ponder what will lead you to success in your daily life. Have you set your thought bracket for March Madness? I am a sports girl, and boy do I love March Madness. Now, I'm not one who will spend time on gathering my teams and figuring out who I want to win, but I do know who I want to win. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co    Just imagine if we put as much effort into curating our thoughts as we do into picking winning teams. The impact could be monumental! If you recognized what was not working for you, you could make adjustments in real-time.  So let's set you up for success every day. Create Your Now! The K.I.S.S. ~ Create your now! You can have a better life. But you have to be willing to put in the time, energy, and effort.  1. Practice Mindfulness: Take a pause in your day to observe your thoughts. Mindfulness meditation can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions, allowing you to choose positive ones. 2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Just like teams face tough opponents, our minds often battle negative thoughts. Challenge them by replacing them with affirmations or thoughts of gratitude. 3. Visualize Success: Visualization techniques are powerful tools to create a positive mindset. Imagine yourself achieving your goals, and watch how it shapes your reality. In the words of legendary basketball coach John Wooden, “Make each day your masterpiece.” Your thoughts lay the foundation for that masterpiece. As Coach Mike Krzyzewski wisely puts it, “What you are thinking is what you are becoming.” So, aim high with your thought bracket, and witness the transformation in your life. And as Kristianne Wargo wisely said, "Your thoughts are the architects of your reality." Get ready to root for the winning team - YOU!   "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"     #MindsetMonday #CreateYourNow #PersonalDevelopment Thought Madness Bracket: Click here to get your bracket! 

3333 Have You Set Your Thought Bracket for March Madness?

Create Your Now brings moms, mompreneurs, and entrepreneurs tools and strategies to become their best selfie in areas of lifestyle, business, spirituality, nutrition, fitness, parenting, relationships, motherhood, mindset and balanced daily living. We promise according to our hopes; And perform according to our fears! This DAILY podcast will empower and encourage you to rediscover, rejuvenate and renew who you are in mind, body, and spirit. Topics include healthy living, work life balance, weight loss, exercise videos, overcoming adversity, burnout, inspiration, motivation, cooking and recipes, mind mapping, goal setting, marriage and relationships, and Christian values. Kristianne, your host, is a contributor to the Huffington Post. Let's train for life and love your journey. Be Present. Be Incredible. Be YOU!!! 

Enjoy Create Your Now ARCHIVE 1 through ARCHIVE 5 Podcast on iTunes for the earlier episodes. Send your questions/comments to YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com.

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Within the hustle and bustle of everyday existence, there lies a resounding harmony of bravery, selflessness, and integrity that echoes throughout the pages of time—the resounding echoes of valor. As we navigate our own paths, it is crucial to pause, listen, and heed the lessons imparted by those who have fearlessly defended our freedoms.  Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co    As we celebrate Memorial Day, a day of remembrance and gratitude, we are called to reflect on the sacrifices made by the courageous men and women who have served our country. At its core, Memorial Day is a time to honor the memory of those who gave their lives in defense of our freedoms and to learn from their selfless acts of service. So as you go about your day, take time to reflect on the blessings you have because of the service and sacrifice of others you most likely will never meet. The K.I.S.S. ~ Echoes of valor! Remembrance: One poignant example of sacrifice and service is the story of Sergeant First Class Paul Smith, a U.S. Army soldier who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Iraq War by President George W. Bush in a ceremony at the White House on April 4, 2005. On April 4, 2003, Smith's unit came under attack from enemy forces in Baghdad. Despite being outnumbered and under fire, Smith took charge of his men, manned a machine gun on an exposed position, and fought valiantly to protect his fellow soldiers. He made the ultimate sacrifice that day, saving countless lives through his courageous actions. A Lesson Learned: Smith's story serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and valor displayed by our service members in the face of danger. Sergeant Smith's selfless act of putting others before himself exemplifies the values of honor, duty, and sacrifice that define our military heroes. Through his example, we learn the importance of standing up for what is right, of protecting those in need, and of never backing down in the face of adversity. Gratitude: In the words of President John F. Kennedy, "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." This Memorial Day, let us not only pay tribute to the fallen, but also express our gratitude through our actions. We can honor their memory by volunteering at veterans' organizations, supporting military families, and advocating for policies that benefit our servicemen and women. In the spirit of continuing the impact of Memorial Day, here are three things we can do to honor this day: 1. Attend a Memorial Day ceremony or parade in your community to pay respects to those who have served. 2. Visit a local veteran's memorial or cemetery and leave flowers or flags to honor the fallen. 3. Support organizations that provide assistance to veterans and their families, such as the Wounded Warrior Project or Fisher House Foundation. Let us remember, "Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it." ~ Kristianne Wargo On this Memorial Day, may we honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice, learn from their example, and live with courage and gratitude in their memory. For those who are still with us and those currently serving, we salute YOU-- your service and sacrifice. And to the families behind the soldiers, we honor you, too. May this Memorial Day not go unnoticed by those who gave you the opportunity to have the freedoms we so frequently take for granted. Our freedoms come at a cost both in life and death.  Have a blessed Memorial Day!   "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"     #MindsetMonday #CreateYourNow #PersonalDevelopment 

3410 Echoes of Valor

In a world where we seek control over every aspect of our lives, it's easy to overlook God's divine plan. The wise words of Amy Carmichael remind us that "Our feelings do not affect God's facts." Surrender to God's plan. Your emotions, though valid and real, do not change the unchanging reality of God's purpose and presence in your life. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co    When you try to control every outcome based on your emotions, you may inadvertently lead yourself astray from God's intended path for you. Despite your best intentions, your feelings can cloud your judgment and steer you away from the truth that God sees things in a way that you may miss or dismiss. The K.I.S.S. ~ Surrender to God's plan! To be grounded in God and not in our feelings is to surrender our will to His divine plan. In the Bible, Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." CHALLENGE: Are you placing your trust in God's wisdom above your own understanding and willing to submit your ways to His will? When we anchor our lives in faith and trust in God's promises, we can find peace beyond our feelings and navigate life with a sense of purpose and direction. As Kristianne Wargo once said, "Letting go of your need for control is where you find the freedom to embrace God's plan." Let us remember that our feelings, though powerful, are fleeting. God's love and purpose for us endure forever. May we strive to live not by our emotions, but by the unchanging truths of God's word. May we rest in His presence!   "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"     #SweetSpirit #CreateYourNow #SoulfulSunday 

3409 Surrender to God's Plan

Marriage is often painted as the ultimate union where two individuals become one, sharing everything from their pasts to their deepest secrets. But should you tell your spouse everything? What happens when one spouse feels the need to be brutally honest about every aspect of their life while the other struggles to handle the weight of these revelations? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co    The question of whether to tell your spouse everything is a complex one, as finding the right balance in a relationship can be challenging. It's essential to understand that your spouse cannot be your sole source of support and understanding, nor can they erase the pain and disappointments of your past. So how do you know if you should tell your spouse? You might need to consider the positioning of your spouse. The K.I.S.S. ~ Consider the positioning of your spouse! 1. Choose Your Timing Wisely: Instead of bombarding your spouse with every detail of your past or present struggles all at once, consider discussing sensitive topics when both of you are in a calm and receptive state. Setting aside dedicated time for open and honest conversations can prevent overwhelming your partner. Gary Chapman, author of "The Five Love Languages" ~ "Communication is the key to a vibrant relationship. When we understand and speak each other's love language, we're telling our spouse that they matter." 2. Practice Active Listening: Encourage your spouse to share their feelings and concerns about the information you're disclosing. Showing empathy and understanding towards their reactions can create a safe space for both of you to communicate effectively without judgment. Also, when you are actively listening, your spouse will leave clues as to what they can and cannot handle. Think about this: Why would you share something that cannot be handled in a delicate manner? Shaunti Feldhahn, author of "For Women Only" ~ "Men and women may experience love differently, but the need for communication, understanding, and connection is universal. Taking the time to truly listen to your partner can strengthen your bond." 3. Seek Professional Guidance: If the topics you wish to discuss are particularly challenging or triggering for either you or your spouse, consider seeking the help of a licensed therapist or counselor or certified coach. Professional guidance can facilitate productive discussions and provide tools to navigate sensitive conversations.  Leslie Vernick, author of "The Emotionally Destructive Marriage," ~ "Healthy relationships require boundaries and respect. It's important to communicate openly and honestly while also honoring each other's emotional well-being." "Marriage is a journey of two individuals walking together, not a destination where all problems disappear. Finding a balance between honesty and sensitivity is key to fostering a healthy and thriving relationship." ~ Kristianne Wargo In the end, navigating the delicate balance of transparency and discretion in marriage requires mutual respect, understanding, and a willingness to support each other through life's challenges. CHALLENGE: How do you share? Do you tell your spouse everything? Do you think you should tell your spouse everything? How do you tell your spouse everything?   "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"     #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 

3408 Should You Tell Your Spouse Everything?

The presence of cell phones in the lives of our children has undeniably reshaped their realities. If the virtual world continues to take hold of our children's minds, how will they understand reality? Take a stand and embrace the joy of digital detox. Rather than engaging with the tangible world around them, they are more often immersed in a virtual realm that offers instant gratification and constant stimulation. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co    But at what cost does this connectivity come, especially when it comes to the mental well-being of our young ones? Girls are often lured by the promise of social connections, where relationships are curated and maintained through screens. The fear of missing out (FOMO) drives them to stay constantly plugged in, fearing the isolation that may come with disconnecting. On the other hand, boys are frequently enticed by sports and video games, only to find themselves inadvertently exposed to harmful content like pornography. This constant pull towards screens can have profound effects on our children, both physically and mentally. To combat this trend and promote a healthier balance, parents can take proactive steps to limit phone usage and encourage activities that stimulate creativity and imagination. The K.I.S.S. ~ Encourage free play! Free play is not just about playing with toys. Free play is about being present in the moment, using their motor skills and mental development. 1. One effective strategy is to implement designated tech-free times or zones within the home. By setting boundaries around phone usage, parents can create space for uninterrupted free play, allowing children to engage with the physical world and exercise their creativity. 2. Encouraging activities and hobbies that do not involve screens is another way to help children rewire their behavior. Whether it's exploring nature, arts and crafts, or sports, these pursuits can provide a much-needed break from the digital noise and foster a sense of presence in the moment. 3. Parents can also lead by example and model healthy tech habits. By demonstrating the value of face-to-face interactions and genuine human connection, they can instill in their children a deeper appreciation for the real world beyond the screen. As author Jonathan Haidt emphasizes in his book "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness," the rise of smartphone use among children has been linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression. But you can make some shifts to save your child from this age of digital rewiring. "It's time to unplug and reconnect with what truly matters – each other." ~ Kristianne Wargo By prioritizing mental well-being over digital distractions, we can help our children thrive in a balanced and grounded way. Remember, the virtual world may offer instant gratification, but it is the real connections and experiences that nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Let's guide our children back to the beauty of living in the moment and embracing the joy of free play.   "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"     #ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent 

3407 The Joy of Digital Detox

Life meanders through unforeseen twists, a masterpiece in the making; a living legacy forming by each moment embraced. Step by step, inch by inch, forward is the only way. So walk this way! When the road ahead swerves unexpectedly, it's not about rerouting the destination but about embracing the journey with a renewed perspective. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at Women of IMPACT. https://createyournow.mn.co    Just because life doesn't go as planned does not mean that everything changes. It's merely your approach and attitude that changes. Life's rhythm often orchestrates its own tune, sometimes offbeat from our well-practiced steps. The true test lies not in the shuffled plans, but in the resilience displayed by taking that next step, pivoting gracefully. Uncertainty may cloud the path, but within you, the light of talent and potential shines brightly. "Life is not a straight line. It's many curves that create your masterpiece, your living legacy." ~ Kristianne Wargo The K.I.S.S. ~ Walk this way! In the midst of chaos and detours, don't let your gifts fade into the background. Each setback is a chance to showcase your unwavering strength and capability. "Don't bury your treasure because life happens. Your treasure, your gifts, are too precious to be concealed by the shadows of doubt and challenge." ~ Kristianne Wargo As you stand at the crossroads of decision and contemplation, remember to pause, take a breath, and propel yourself forward. The step you take today, no matter how small, sets the stage for monumental progress tomorrow. It's in the gentle momentum of persistent movement that greatness is etched, one stride at a time. "One step at a time leads to miles of greatness!" ~ Kristianne Wargo In this symphony of life, orchestrate your steps with determination and purpose. Let the melody of your journey be defined not by the obstacles faced but by the courage to face them head-on. Embrace each pivot, each shift, for they are the strokes of brilliance painting your life's canvas. Walk this way– bravely and deliberately, for the path ahead is illuminated by the light you carry within.   "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!"     #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 

3333 Have You Set Your Thought Bracket for March Madness?

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