Tag: thoughts

Clarity. Action. Success.

There’s this misconception that adulthood miraculously brings clarity into your life and the reality is clarity can come at anytime. There are a whole lot of adults that are still struggling to find their “way in life.”

And that’s ok. There is no magical switch that can be flipped and voila’ your life is all planned and set. It takes work, time and commitment to see the results you want. Sometimes you have to understand that everything works in divine timing, but we have to keep it real with ourselves too!

We can’t expect to be millionaires if we aren’t putting in the work to make millions. If you’re not putting those plans into action, guess what? They won’t come to fruition. And it doesn’t matter what part of your life it is, words require action or they will forever remain in a perpetual dream state.

So what if you have to start over and reinvent yourself or your approach in order to obtain your desired goal. As long as you have breath, you have opportunity. So keep it pushing. You’re not the only one that isn’t where they imagined they’d be at this point in their life and you won’t be the last one either.

I’ve personally had to restart several times. I just keep brushing myself off and going for what I know and asking for help for what I don’t know. And that’s the key. You have to humble yourself and ask for help when it’s needed. You can’t get ahead because it’s impossible for one person to be all things for all people. So, find a team and delegate tasks to them. Yes, relinquishing control can be scary. But guess what? If you keep doing things the same way, you’ll get the same stagnating results.

Do the self-work you need to do to get out your own way. That self-work looks differently for everyone. It may be meditation and journaling. It could be counseling and therapy. Or it might be a staged intervention from family and friends. Whatever it is, be honest with yourself and recognize what is blocking you from truly living your best life. Ask for clarity on your purpose and align that purpose with your passion. Remember to be open to receiving that clarity too. What you had in mind might not be what’s best for you. Be open to shifting gears.

Invest in yourself and pay for coaching if needed. There is no shame in learning from those that are living the type of life you desire. A closed mouth won’t get fed, the same is true of a closed mind.

Life can be a roller coaster, but those lessons learned are always worth the ride.

~Micaiah

Capturing the moments

When we are kids, we can’t wait to be adults. We think adulthood is some
magical, mythical world where many joys and freedoms reside. Our immature minds cannot comprehend the responsibility being an adult brings. We are far too self-centered at the time and rightly so, to think past our own wants and
needs. We think 30 is ancient and 50 is prehistoric until time seems to speed by,
and, in a blink of an eye, we find ourselves in our parents’ shoes.

Seemingly shocked and unaware of how time morphed from then till now, so
quickly. How did we go from milk and cookies and afternoon naps on cots with friends to paying bills and stressing over adult decisions? Just yesterday, we were picking the highest number to keep from being “IT” all while scoping
out the nearest hiding spots, not too close to home base to be deemed a
cheater.

We did not cherish the sanctity of ignorance and the bliss of childhood
naivete and innocence. Milk and cookies have been exchanged for wine and
charcuterie boards. We did not understand back then when elders would say,
‘getting older was both a blessing and a curse’ as they mourned the loss of
friends, mates, and lovers.

Yet, as we mature and find ourselves in those proverbial shoes of our
parents, we are forced to see things in a brand-new light. As we deal with the
caring of elderly, frail parents or mourn the loss of them. As we navigate
memories of simpler times while hugging friends/family that we failed to keep
in touch with as we pay respect to others lost. Being an adult with all its
perks and freedoms was a heavy place to be.

We use the examples provided by those that went before us. Finding ourselves
repeating phrases to our children that were once said to us as we rolled our
eyes in arrogant youthfulness. We have tidbits of wisdom and have become the
praying warriors our parents and grandparents were. Dealing with our own
children, we see firsthand why some of our parents talked to God so much.

Time passes quickly, whether or not you want it to. And once time has passed,
you can’t get those moments back. That’s why it’s imperative to capture the
memories. So, take time to create a life and not just create a career. Make
real and lasting connections with those you love and care for. A picture does
not have to be aesthetically perfect, for it to be a perfect picture. It’s the
memories and feelings the picture evokes that make it perfect.

In our society, so much time is invested in preparing our children to be
little adults, instead of pushing them to enjoy their childhood, the innocence
and joy of it. Let them laugh, encourage them to play. Let them explore and
teach them to enjoy every minute, creating special memories from everyday
moments.

Take the time to make the time to connect with friends and family and not
just in line giving respects at a funeral. There aren’t many things guaranteed
in life, but death is one thing we all will one day experience, so make those
moments between the dashes count. Live life and capture every memory.

~Micaiah

In the Spirit of Maturity

In 2022 and beyond, what we’re not going to do is waste time explaining the things that should be apparent. Like being mature after a certain age, treating people how you want to be treated and common courtesy even in the midst of differing opinions.

If you are grown, let’s spend more time acting grown, than we do announcing it. Let’s perfect the art of minding our own business versus mindless gossip. I don’t know about the next person, but between tending to my child, work and elderly loved ones I could care less what the next person is doing. And since I waited so late in life to have a child, forget keeping up with the Jones’s I need to keep up with her. Let’s just say, that’s no small feat with these bad knees, lol.

Why can’t we, as grown adults, find real joy in the happiness and victories of others versus feeling jealous and insecure in our own short comings. People need to understand that timing is everything and what looks like an easy win, may have come on the tail end of hardship, sacrifice and struggles. And that just because someone else’s success manifested itself first, doesn’t mean yours isn’t still coming. Don’t block your blessings harboring negative feelings.

Being grown isn’t just an age range it’s a state of mind and being. It should be a time full of introspection and peace. Time to realize or finalize plans and dreams. We should be well beyond petty disagreements and the inability to communicate respectfully. We should be well versed in agreeing to disagree without falling out and playing the victim.

I refuse to waste time and energy on people that refuse to act their age. I’m not explaining things to people that are far beyond the age and have the mental capacity to understand. I will not carry the burden of other people’s immaturity and selfishness. If they love drama and chaos leave them in a cage or on the stage, because life is short and grown ups have better things to do with their time and energy, or at least they should.

I also fully understand that some people often grow old, but never grow up, but they need to take that Peter Pan mentality and stay far away from those of us that have relinquished our lives as caterpillars and are flying on the wings of our lives as butterflies. If you can’t fly with us, do us the favor and move out our way.

Let’s spend our time investing in ourselves and in those that invest in you. Live your best life and encourage those around you to do the same. Lifting up others is a sure fire way to elevate yourself. You won’t have to announce you’re grown if your actions speak for you. So, protect your peace, sage your life of negativity and float into your best years.

~Micaiah

Deflecting Negativity in a Single Bound

The only goals we never meet are the ones we put no effort in pursuing.

We have the ability to change our lives with the changing of our mindset. Words and thoughts hold power and we have the power to self-sabotage our happiness, when we put unhealthy vibrations in the universe.

Sometimes we manifest failure, through self-doubt and negative self-talk.

Block negative thoughts

These thoughts cause us to put forth less effort and without full effort, goals and relationships become burdensome and disintegrate. 

When we want success we have to think successfully. Affirm that what you want, is what you will have. Claim it as truth and being present already.

Energy is movement so when you focus your thoughts on positive things the universe works to place those things in motion for your good, but you do have to work towards them. Words without actions are dead.

Also, it helps to make your goals visible, this is one reason why vision boards are so powerful. They are reminders that our goals are tangible and obtainable. A visual cue of where you need to focus your time and energy.

Visualize your goals and dreams

Remember, goals can be revised, as we reach new levels in self-awareness, our goals and aspirations may change.

You are your only boundary and parameter. The only limits on your life are the ones you set.

So, let your dreams be boundless. Speak and claim positivity and abundance in and on your life. Invest in and sponsor your dreams.

Voice your victories and speak prosperity into your life. You have the power to live your best life. No more fear, no more doubts, no more excuses.

Go ahead and live your best life.

You can do it. You have the power!

-Micaiah

My wish for 2022

I didn’t make any resolutions per say, I’d label them more goals, manifestations or key words.

I’m working towards being a better me daily.

My keywords are: completion, abundance, dedication and renew.

I fervently hope 2022 brings fresh energy with it and good health. This pandemic has been rough to live through, but we take the bitter with the sweet and keep it pushing.

I hope people give themselves the grace they extend to others this year.

I hope people learn to love themselves in such a way that it lends itself to treating others better as well.

Even if the world is unkind, I plan to practice more mindfulness and being grateful.

I plan to love myself so well, others smile when they see my happy glow.

Big changes can occur by first taking small steps.

Sometimes we overwhelm ourselves by planning too big.

We need to take small bite sized portions of those big plans to make them more manageable.

Also, having more small steps can give you a greater sense of accomplishment when you are able to scratch them off as completed. Let 2022 be about celebrating the small wins too.

We may not have arrived at our desired destination, but if we give ourselves credit we’ve done far more than we often realize.

So, 2022 is about self-love, self-care, space from people, things and energy that no longer serve you and grace.

I pray you find peace and joy in the simple things and that you understand sometimes you are more rich than your back account would imply.

No matter what your dreams, goals, resolutions or aspirations look like, I am claiming they all come true! Let’s go have an awesome year, no matter what comes our way!

~Micaiah

A Shortage of Sheep

It seems there must be a shortage on sheep, because I can’t find a single one to count myself to sleep.

It seems the older I become the more insomnia becomes my best friend.

The life and mind of a procrastinating creative, ha. I lie in bed thinking of all the things I could be doing, writing or creating, while at the same time doing nothing at all.

It’s the hamster wheel of thoughts that play in a loop that makes sleep seemingly impossible; yet you don’t want to rev up your engines too much because it’s counterproductive to becoming sleepy.

Are you just as frustrated reading this as I am feeling it?

Good, at least I’m not alone.

Melatonin only seems to work, when it’s time to wake up, then my body wants to relax and drift off into slumber. And yes, I’m aware that using electronics or blue light counteracts the Melatonin kicking in your natural circadian rhythm.

However, there’s only so much laying in the dark thinking about sleep I can do before my mind requires more.
It’s great when ideas come during the cloak of night, except when your alarm is set for 6 in the morning. Yet more often than not, my ideas strike at the most inopportune time. Instead of zzz’s, I have glowing embers from my thoughts and ideas.

Oh, how I envy my sister and daughter, who think the word sleep and then fall into blissful slumber as soon as their head hits the pillow. What type of sleep sorcery do they possess? I have yet to ascertain their magic formula. Nor is the sandman a friend of mine. The sandman tends to avoid me worse than a friend that owes you money they never plan to pay back.

Meditation works while I’m in the midst of it and then when the metaphorical tone sounds, denoting the end of the meditation, it never fails that my relaxed state ebbs away and I’m left to my thoughts, dreams and aspirations.

Reading doesn‘t work either, because I love to read and often have to force myself to put a book down and go to bed.

I guess I truly shouldn’t complain because being awake tonight did allow me to write this post, so maybe I should be thankful that just like Little Bo Peep, I’ve lost my sheep and don’t know where to find them. But I’m going to try real hard to wrangle up a few and catch a few zzz’s.

~Micaiah

Always Under Construction

Lately, my life has been looking like a lane on I-75/I-71 going through Cincinnati, constantly under construction. I am constantly trying to get things in “order” so that I can be my “best” self. And I have come to realize just like the never ending construction that I bemoan on the highways that pass through my city, the construction in my life is also never ending and that’s okay.

My life my never be ideal or perfect, but just like we navigate through and around orange barrels, detours and redirects; we must do the same in our lives. Because whether it’s a street map or life map, if you keep driving/pushing eventually you will make it to your final destination.

That journey may not look like anyone else’s and while it’s frustrating to witness others arrive before you, it can also be inspirational and motivational. Perspective is the ability to change your outlook by changing your attitude or view of the situation. Sometimes life defers our moments so that we can better appreciate them when they occur. Trust that delayed is truly not denied.

While navigating my own detours and redirects, I have come to the realization that if you do not work daily to motivate yourself, you won’t be motivated. Motivation takes daily work, time and commitment. It also takes the gumption to stop putting off hard tasks, whether those tasks be physiological or psychological in nature; you have to show up and do the work.

My biggest weakness or flaw that I am constantly working on is procrastination. I allow myself to become comfortable with the excuses that I have told myself are acceptable so as to assuage the guilt of my complacency. Yeah, we feed ourselves excuses instead of feeding ourselves motivation sometimes. Starve your distractions and feed your focus is a mindset I have yet to master, but I’m under construction right? While it’s true I may be a constant work in progress, I still need to see some small steps towards progress; which means committing myself to work on the things that keep me from progressing i.e. my procrastination.

Procrastination is a low key arrogance issue, because it tends to create a false sense of being guaranteed the time of tomorrow. We all know tomorrow isn’t promised, yet we will allow ourselves the comfort of complacency by stating we will do “it” tomorrow, whatever “it” is. We need to take the leap and do it today.

Do “it” scared, unprepared, under stress, with less than optimal finances. Just do it! We can’t be worried about the messiness of our construction in our lives. It may not be pretty, but if that mess leads to your ultimate progress than it’s more than worth it.

I have determined not to give up or give in. I can’t be the next New York Times Best Selling Author if I’m not writing. I can’t be my best self if I’m not working and taking those small steps towards progress. So, I’ll be content with the orange barrels and detours in and around my life and remind myself that as long as I stay moving, eventually I’ll get to where I want to go and you will too.

~micaiah

Hello Nurse…

When I was younger I had so many different dreams and aspirations of what I’d be in life. For a while I dreamed of having a law firm with two of my other friends we would be Baker, Bean and Reid Associates at Law.

Funny, only one of us actually went into law; but another one did throw her hat in a political/policy influencing arena and sits on Oakland’s City Council.

I, on the other hand, had no long standing law affiliated aspirations. I decided pretty early I’d go into the medical field, early enough that I decided to take Latin to help me later with all the medical terminology I’d learn, and boy it truly came in handy. While others struggled I seemed to breeze right through medical terminology, so much so, I tutored and assisted the instructor during Pharmacology classes for my Licensed Practical Nurse program.

I started as a Home Health Aide then became certified as a State Tested Nursing Assistant. Let me just say nursing assistants are the backbone of health care especially long term care and they don’t get enough attention and appreciation.

It’s hard, sometimes back breaking work, yes they have way more tools and lifting equipment now than they had back in 1993 when I started out, but still it’s laborious work, if you truly care and give your residents the care they deserve.

I didn’t get into the medical field for the money, I got into it for the care and service to the people. I truly have a heart to help others be their best selves. Lots of people chose a career in nursing because it’s an honest and noble living and because they too wanted to help and serve others and it showed in the quality and type of care given to the residents and patients.

In recent years, it seems more are turning to nursing as an easier way to make decent money with a short amount of schooling required to start.

You can definitely tell the difference in the quality of the nurses that are being turned out now versus in the past.

Too many people don’t do it for the passion, they do it to floss and flex for the masses and in the end it’s our sick and vulnerable populations that suffer. This lack of true caring and consideration is what burns out the nurses that truly have a heart for the people and care.

It’s not the patients that really wear you out it’s the policies and politicking. It’s the cuts and poor management and out of touch Administration. It’s coworkers that don’t give as good as they get. It’s work being piled onto your good and dependable worker and no recompense for the bad apples on the team.

Somehow, nursing has to turn back into the passion filled career it once was and not just the lucrative field it’s turning into. The nation is capitalistic and I know this more than anyone, but we also have a world of people that are living longer but chronically sicker, so we have to get back into the act of honestly caring for their well-being.

I had some excellent role models for nurses.

We need more older nurses willing to invest in and mentor these younger nurses. We need nurses that don’t eat and alienate their young. We need advanced practice nurses that humble themselves and realize that initials and titles don’t automatically equate to great nurses, it goes beyond that to mindset, common sense and skill set.

Honestly, I know lots of LPNs that I would allow to care for me before some RN’s. We can’t forget the struggle just because we make it beyond it. We have to remember the humanity in nursing and our why behind becoming one.

Nursing has to get back to the art of care and compassion we were known for.

So, as we embark upon another Nursing Week, I implore you to do your part in keeping nursing a compassionate and honorable profession.

If not for the sick and infirm there would be no need for the nurse.

And as you care for others always remember it could be you or someone close to you on the other end of needing care.

~micaiah RN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your best life starts today!

Today, I want to impress upon you the importance of seizing the moment, stop waiting and make changes daily as you see the need for them. Time waits for no one and 2020 took many people with it whom died, what I feel was way too soon, some in the very beginning or prime of their lives. So be the change you want to see in your life.

Stop waiting to live your best life. Don’t put off tomorrow what you can do today. Release your fears and tap into your inner courage. Stop being complacent with convenience and mediocrity in your personal and professional life.

Surround yourself with friends and people that challenge you, to be a better you. Friends should be as iron that sharpens iron and act as mirrors to show us our real and true selves. Because the only way to effectively change yourself for the better is to take an honest inventory of yourself and your characteristics and act accordingly.

Realize and accept, that not everyone will be able to make the journey towards self-improvement with you, nor or they meant to. There is a time and purpose for everything and person under the sun, acknowledge when something or someone has outstayed their purpose in your life, release them/it and move on towards vaster and brighter horizons.

Understand that change may not be comfortable, but beautiful things are often birthed through adversity and pain.

Understand that there are dream makers and dream and idea takers, know your circle and know that some moves are not to be broadcast, but are best made in silence, allowing your work or action to speak for itself.

Most of all, forgive yourself of your short comings, what’s done is done and is now in the past. You can’t change the past so resolve to make better, more logically sound choices from this point on. The shame is not in the falling down; it’s being comfortable in staying down.

Tomorrow is never promised so make the most of your Today!

~Micaiah

No discounts

Some people don’t truly want you, but they want to reserve their place in your life.

They see the value of your connections, even when they attempt to devalue your personal worth.

People will attempt to play with your mind, because it makes it easier to steer your heart.

That’s why you have to set your price and stand firm, and never allow someone with a low budget mentality bring down your self-worth.

micaiah

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