We can agree that there isn’t much that is easy about this stage, but there are many, many approaches that can make this a more wonderful stage than we could ever have imagined, and with a strong faith, and five kids, my friend Jenni Spuler has learned her share of encouragement from the bumps along the way.

Parenting littles can bring about more unmet fear than we ever imagined. We create scenarios and stories that quite possibly will never come to light. The things that seem huge, really aren’t. When you feel it in your gut, you are more often than not, correct. Go with it. You are more prepared for this time than you ever knew.

Postpartum is experienced by more moms than you realize. From mild, to intense. Either way, let’s support moms, encourage moms, and give a whole bunch of grace. And moms, keep taking that best next step to take care of yourself through this. Get help. Give yourself grace. Go for a walk. Get some sunshine. And know that this will pass, and this is so common among moms.

Stress is a huge factor in your health, and your stress is compounded by how you approach life, which is how you approach each day. Choose to approach your day with hope, gratitude, and a positive outlook on life, and watch your health, relationships, work, and life improve.

There are so many choices at home that affect your health. It all starts with you. Choose to own the health in your home. Good health is not just exercise, and eating well. It is the environment and atmosphere of our home. It is how our family feels when they are there. It should be a place to feel safe, and find peace, and rest from the crazy pace of the world.

Your health is a combination of your choices, your home, and what you do at your office. You can’t go to the gym, eat well, and create a terrible culture with your team. It all goes together. Bring your healthy approach to life, to your office and team as well. There are many simple choices and shifts you can make in an office, and with your team, to have a healthier culture, less stress, and better energy.

This world will keep you from all of your dreams if you let it. This week I want you to have the courage to say no, create the boundary, choose something hard and unpopular, and go do it. Choose your family first, live by your values, rest when needed, and have the courage to walk your own unique path.

Have goals, but stay flexible and open in your path, and never stop believing in yourself. Don’t let this world make you question your goals, your path, or your belief in yourself. Hope is a choice, a way of thinking. Choose to be hopeful. This too shall pass.

I am listening to the audio of Daring Greatly, by Brene’ Brown this summer. She talks about vulnerability and shame. Vulnerability does lead to connection, but it is important to know that not everyone is cheering you on, and not everyone deserves to hear your story. Pay attention and know that you get to choose.

our words and thoughts have an enormous amount of power over your life. They create the trajectory of where you go, how you feel about yourself, and affect your confidence and ability to take action. Pay attention and choose wisely.