How to Stay Motivated to Reach Goals in 12 Steps

Following your professional aspirations isn't always easy and glamorous. It's hard work, it takes time, you'll make mistakes, and you have to stay motivated and dedicated even when you feel you're going nowhere and not receiving a lot of support. 

Furthermore, there may be times you feel discouraged because it appears as though others are attaining success faster than you. However, you don't know how hard they have worked or what they have gone through to reach their current status. You also don't know if they're doing as great as you think. Most importantly why compare yourself to others? How does it serve you to be consumed with whether others are appearing to be doing better or worse than you? There are several highly ambitious individuals out there so do not concern yourself with being better than anyone and instead do your best. Continue to be better than who you were yesterday. Keep moving forward by growing your confidence and putting your time and energy into building your own empire or into achieving whatever your own goals are. You got this!

12 Steps to stay motivated:

1. Surround yourself with people who are rooting for you to succeed.
2. Spend time with positive friends and family.
3. Focus on what you have achieved.
4. Realize the setbacks have been lessons to further your knowledge and strengthen your abilities.
5. Instead of staying in a state of worrying or agonizing, start strategizing.
6. Watch inspirational videos.
7. Listen to motivational podcasts.
8. Keep learning.
9. Be mindful of your words affirming who you are.
10. Keep telling yourself you are ready.
11. Be aware of your habits creating desired outcomes.
12. Celebrate accomplishments.

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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70 Acts of Kindness Ideas

1. Sincerely speak kindly
2. Only share positive comments with others
3. Help someone who needs assistance crossing the street
4. Pay for someone’s beverage, meal, or groceries
5. Give a gift of shoes, coat or any essential item you know someone is in need of
6. Help someone with their resume
7. Help someone prepare for a job interview
8. Share with someone how you feel they make the world a better place
9. Help others see the positive qualities in everything through your conversations
10. Steer conversations away from gossip and onto more positive things
11. When someone is speaking words that promotes division amongst others direct the conversation to foster understanding, appreciation, or Luv
12. Be generous with your words of affirmation to all those around you
13. Be patient with others
14. Empathize
15. Remember that everyone is dealing with their own battles
16. Send someone a small gift anonymously
17. Ask someone how they are doing and really listen to their response
18. Let someone know how much you appreciate them
19. Offer encouraging words to someone feeling discouraged or sad
20. Be a designated driver
21. Help someone move
22. Hold the door or elevator open for others
23. Help someone whose car is broken down
24. Give directions to someone who is lost
25. Take the time to get to know someone different from you
26. Have a respectful conversation with someone who has opposing views, you both don’t have to convert, but may learn from each other and understand each other
27. Send someone a care package
28. Help a co-worker who is overwhelmed with a huge workload
29. Help someone with yard work
30. Shovel your neighbor’s sidewalk
31. Offer the handy-person a drink or snack
32. Babysit for free
33. Pet-sit for free
34. When on a crowded bus or train give your seat to someone
35. When you see someone who looks down or frustrated offer to help
36. Be reliable
37. Be trustworthy
38. Bring treats to share with co-workers
39. Offer companionship to someone who doesn’t have many friends or family
40. Genuinely say “please” and “thank you”
41. Be generous with compliments
42. Help a friend or family member around the house who is going through an emotional time, i.e., cook or clean.
43. Put your phone away and be in the moment with present company
44. Be welcoming to the new person at work or in the neighborhood
45. Let someone finish their sentence before speaking
46. Compliment an employee to their boss
47. When driving let someone merge in your lane when they turn their blinker on
48. Get to know the shy person at the party or at work
49. If someone has fewer items than you at the supermarket, let them go first
50. Give someone a book you think they’ll like
51. Create an inspirational video for a friend going through a rough time
52. Before going to the supermarket ask people around you if they need anything
53. Keep in touch with friends and family
54. Try to make sure everyone in the group feels included in the conversation
55. Play board games with senior citizens at a nursing home
56. Volunteer at a food bank
57. Volunteer at an animal shelter
58. Send an appetizer or dessert to another table
59. Keep an extra umbrella to offer someone when there’s a sudden down pour
60. Be kind to the customer service rep and/or give positive reviews 
61. Compliment a stranger
62. Donate groceries or give a gift card to a family in need
63. Say please and thank you
64. When having a conversation with someone listen intently without interruption
65. Respects someone's feelings whether you agree or understand
66. Return a lost item to Lost and Found if that's an option
67. Give new parents a gift for them (and the baby)
68. When in traffic, let people in when they turn their blinker on
69. When people let you in a lane in traffic wave to signify your appreciation
70. Remember you deserve to be kind to yourself as well

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How to Overcome Depression

Sadness or a depressed mood is a normal temporary reaction when experiencing certain life events. Depression is more than going through a rough state in your life, it's a serious mental health condition. People with depression experience hopelessness, feelings of worthlessness, loss of interests in activities, lack of concentration, social isolation, exhaustion, insomnia, irritability, thoughts of suicide, and can also have physical aches and pains.

There are varying factors that can cause depression such as chemical imbalances, genetics, medications, and experiences. The contributing causes for developing depression is different for everyone, the most important thing is to realize that this is not a flaw in your character and to recognize the signs so you may seek support.

Some people will take a holistic or natural remedy approach to heal depression by eating healthy, exercising, meditating, acupuncture, spending time outdoors, creating art, talk therapy/support groups, and/or taking natural supplements. I recommend you do your research to find what is best for you.

If going the natural route is not for you and you want or need prescribed medication, make an appointment with your primary physician or a nurse practitioner as they can help you determine what type of provider (therapist) you should see. If your health insurance covers mental health services ask for the contact information of local service providers who accept your insurance plan.

If you or anyone you know is considering suicide get help. If you don't have anyone to talk to you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. They offer 24/7 support.

"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen." Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

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If you or someone you know are not dealing with depression, yet need to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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13 ways to cultivate Peace and Luv in a Diverse World

Do we want to stop destroying each other? We have been absorbing the recycled perceptions being passed down from generation to generation fed to us from our family, peers, education system, media, politics and religion. What have we trusted and accepted that keeps the destructive interactions we have with one another going? What have we agreed to that causes us to habitually despise one another because of our differences?

The truth is, we cannot force the KKK, Neo Nazis, and all other White Supremacist groups to start seeing People of Color as Human Beings and value our lives.

We cannot force anyone to accept us or Luv us.

The only way for people who are already infected with hatred, anger, fear, racism, homophobia, xenophobia, and all intolerance towards those different from them is if they choose to clean out the toxins circulating in their minds, living in their veins, boiling in their blood.

Our actions are governed by our thoughts and the only way to effectively change the world to cultivate peace and Luv is to change the way we see each other. We treat people congruent to how we see them.

For those of us who can genuinely see each other as human beings let's do our part to stop breeding more hate and start creating more understanding, positive, and Luving environments.

13 Ways to Cultivate Peace and Luv (So much more can be added, but this is a start)

1. Do not be Color Blind. See everyone. See the diversity because there is nothing wrong with what people are. You can Luv yourself while still appreciating and respecting people different from you.

2. Raise your children around various cultures and travel outside of your neighborhood, community, state, and country. If your children are raised getting to know people who speak different from them, look different from them, and think different from them then they won't fear differences. They will have an opportunity to appreciate differences and see beauty in it.

3. Do not justify acts of discrimination. When validating the actions of the attacker you’re demeaning the life of the one attacked.

4. Avoid generalizing. The behavior or attitude of one or some, is not all.

5. Be educated on the contributions people from other cultures have achieved and provided.

6. Do not make assumptions about a person or individual group. Get to know people for who they are, not who you expect them to be.

7. Do not participate in comments or actions that appear to be derogatory or prejudicial to any individual group.

8. Speak up when witnessing someone being humiliated or discriminated against.

9. Be aware of how you speak and treat people. Are your words and actions uplifting or damaging?

10. Do not make decisions for another culture if they should not be offended when their culture has been disrespected or dehumanized. It is not for us to defend or condone any form of mistreatment against another that isn’t directed at us or our culture regardless how we would personally respond, react, or feel if in the same situation.

11. Be humble. Put your ego, assumptions, and views aside to genuinely reflect on another’s experience to avoid minimizing their experience or question the validity of their feelings.

12. Acknowledge that all people are human beings.

13. Value each other's lives.

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Luv Mrk offers Impacting Perceptions an interactive workshop or presentation assessing our perceptions and treatment of people due to their gender, race, religion, politics, socio-economic status, sexuality, ability, and appearance in order to build positive relationships and enhance empathy. This workshop or presentation is for students, educators, employees, volunteers, leaders, and all others interested in building unity and having increased emotional intelligence/self-awareness to make a lasting positive impact in our professional and personal lives. This experience is great for diversity training, leadership seminars, team building workshops, orientations, community building events, retreats, enrichment/elective classes, after school programs, and speaker series events. 

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Saving Ourselves

How do we get through the day when we have reached emptiness, when we have to get out of bed, face society, force a smile or polite conversation, or use all the energy we can gather from every part of our being to put one foot in front of the other, or to just breathe?

It doesn’t help when others ignore us until we act right or they are annoyed with us because we aren’t brightening their day.  Our void of vitality is not being filled when they tell us to…

“Snap out of it!”

“There are people worse off than you.”

“Get over it.”

“Buck up, everyone goes through this.”

“Stop feeling sorry for yourself.”

“You don’t have real problems.”

“You’re being pathetic.”

“Stop being weak.”

How about they say, “I’m here to listen.”

Real comfort from those who Luv us is needed, yet the truth is we have to be the ones to save ourselves.  We have to realize that every day we wake up we have been given another chance, gift, opportunity to start living our life the way we truly want.  We can start taking the steps we need that lead us to the peace, happiness, and Luv we crave.

It’s not easy. Life can hurt. People can hurt us. We can feel unwanted, unloved, and invisible. We cannot get the job we wanted or the promotion. Struggle financially. We can fail at one thing or numerous things we tried so hard to accomplish. We can get sick. Lose loved ones. Fear for our life. Fear for our rights. Lose hope. Sometimes we don’t even know what it is, but there’s this hollowness consuming us.  There are numerous afflictions that are painful, for some of us it can be so painful that seeing another day is not wanted.

I wish I could take all the pain away. I wish I could take away anything that causes pain, but all any of us can do is work on what is in our ability to do. Life has balances and through that pain we can gain strength.  As long as we awake to each day we can decide what we’re going to do with it. 

What can you do each day to get from having your biggest accomplishment being just making it out of bed, to reach actually being happy you’re alive?  The ailments that have beat you down or continue to throw punches at you may not go away or even when they do, others may come back, so how will you choose to face them?  I hope that with all you have within you, you choose to win. If you get to a point where you do need help then make sure you get aid from people who are nurturing and genuinely want the best for you. It is courageous to ask for help when needed from those who are able to give it. Just because you have to be the one to live your life, it doesn’t mean you have to do it alone.

There are many of us, if not all, who walk on this planet with bruises and scars from our own battles. These internal injuries can make us stronger or end us. Choose strength. Take it one day at a time, one hour at a time, one minute at a time, one breath at a time.  We can do this.

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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How to Be There for Someone Who Has Lost a Loved One

It is not always simple knowing how to provide comfort to someone who has lost a loved one.  Sometimes you don’t know what to say or what to do to offer support, but reach out anyway.  The person who is dealing with someone they cared about passing on may be feeling empty, lost, and alone, for that reason they will appreciate you caring about them and being there for them.  Here are some suggestions to offer comfort and assistance...

1. Contact the grieving person by phone or visit them in person to offer your condolences.
2. Offer them a hug, hold their hand, or any form of physical contact you both are comfortable with. You could also just sit next to them and keep providing tissue if they are crying. Sometimes you do not need to say or do anything, but just physically be there, your presence may provide the comfort they need at that moment.
3. Instead of saying you are here for them if they need you, just actually do something. They may not know what they need and won’t want to burden you when they do need something.
4. Bring over food, disposable eating utensils, paper towels, toilet tissue, and tissue.  This is for anyone who lives in the house and for people visiting to provide emotional support; the bereaved person does not need to be concerned with being a host.
5. Cook, clean, or run errands for them.
6. Volunteer to do specific activities to help with planning the funeral or celebration of life. Could be contacting people inviting them to the funeral, acquiring a caterer, making a tribute video, being an usher the day of the service, etc.
7. Help setup a fundraising drive to cover funeral/celebration of life costs or contribute to the fund.
8. Even if you know what they are going through this is their own personal event they have to face, do not offer unsolicited similar experiences.  If they ask you questions, then have that conversation.
9. Do not tell them, “It was their time” or “S/He is in a better place”. Those words offer no relief. 
10. Do not ask anyone, “How close they were to the deceased” or any questions that resemble the kind of relationship they had. It does not matter if the last time someone spoke to the person was months ago or the last time they saw each other was a year ago, people can still care for someone no matter the time that has passed in staying in communication.
11. Keep in touch with the bereaved person on a regular basis.  After the funeral/celebration of life, they will still need emotional support. Make sure you’re being there just enough, but not pestering.  If they celebrate holidays, definitely make it a point to reach out during those times as well.
12. If the person is suffering from physical loneliness, offer to spend the night or a couple nights and watch movies or play games. Do activities they will enjoy.
13. Be understanding to the different emotions they will experience and do not take the moments of them being angry and unkind to you personally.
14. Allow the person to heal in their own time.  Everyone handles death differently and they don’t need an expiration date for mourning.  Even when it appears as though they are getting back to their regular routine, they may still be hurting. Respect their process.

Extra Note:  Share with your loved ones how you care about them right now.  It’s great to hear people sharing stories at the funeral/celebration of life of all of the wonderful ways the deceased person has positively affected their lives, but they would have loved to have heard those words while still living.

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Getting Past the Surface

Have you ever had that moment when you’re out with friends and then they share some information about their past and you say, “Wow, I didn’t know that about you!”?  Sometimes you can be friends with someone for years or even in a relationship and still have things to learn about each other.

If this is true for those in our social circle what about people we don't know, yet we believe we know who they are based from what we see on the surface? Here are some tips for getting past invalid judgments or superficial rapport to a more real bond.

1.       When having a conversation with someone you know or just met, listen to what they are saying without waiting for your turn to speak.  If you aren’t concerned with rushing to share your thoughts and patiently wait to add your perspective, you will be providing more of your full attention to the person in your company, which in return they will appreciate being heard. Also, stay present. Do not get distracted by people in the room or your phone. Be in the moment and you will realize how much you get to know about your companion.

2.       Instead of asking the usual “How are you?” ask “What has been the best part of your day today?”  You may throw them off guard, but then a positive conversation can get started as you both share what happened that brought happiness. Psst, this is not the question you have to use, it’s just a suggestion to go beyond the typical banter. Ask about an update on someone or a situation you know matters to them. Ask them a silly question like if their life was a movie what would be in the funny outtakes/gag reel? Think of any question that can provide an answer with more detail or a one word response. If you need assistance do an online search for alternative questions to, “how are you?” or conversation starters.

3.       If you appreciate diversity and want to know someone because they are a part of a culture that is different from yours, be respectable.  Do not ask where they’re from, what their name means, or what they’re mixed with.  Let them share that information on their own if they want.  When you pry and continue to re-word the questions because they are not giving you the answer you want, this means they do not want to share.  Respect their right to not share and change the subject. Because truthfully it is not really our business what race someone is or where they’re from. They’re a person, a human being just like you.  Just because someone is a part of a culture that speaks a language, honors traditions, and wears a style that differs from a culture you identify with, that doesn’t make them entertainment or a subject on the National Geographic channel to be studied.

4.       If you fear someone because they are different from you, start a conversation with them.  You may realize you have more in common than you could have imagined, or that there is nothing to be afraid of.  If they work in your building, introduce yourself and say what you do or what department you’re in and that you are working on getting to meet everyone.  At that moment they may share their name and what position they have as well. Or perhaps it's someone who frequents the same coffee shop as you, just casually say hi and introduce yourself. If they only share a name and you’re not getting a “vibe” they want to continue speaking, just say it was nice to meet them and say their name, i.e. “It was nice to meet you Joe, enjoy the rest of your day.”  From then on when you see “Joe” say hi and include his name.  When you use someone’s name that makes them feel special you remembered their name and will also help in having them be more comfortable to speak with you. If you have time ask some of the questions in option 2. Next thing you know you both will start having more to say to each other and get to know one another more.  If you unfortunately do not get the chance to build a connection with “Joe” don’t make assumptions about him.  Everyone has their own story and battles they are dealing with.  Every one of us end up the way we are from what we have learned and experienced. If you do not get to know where “Joe” is coming from, don’t make up stories in your head, share them, and then convince others its truth. Let him be. Yet, I’m rooting for you two to end up as friends!

Enjoy getting to know people and those close to you better! Stay engaged during dialogue, have more in depth conversations, allow yourself to know people for who they are and not who you assume them to be, choose to be respectful, and kind.

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We project what is within, which is why Luv Mrk offers Impacting Perceptions, a transformative workshop to explore our personal views and how these interpretations affect self and relationships with others. Discover how outside influences from our experiences and environment to the media shapes our perceptions which in turn inspire our choices and actions. When we identify the beneficial and/or destructive impact our beliefs have on our lives we can then consciously choose to evolve our approach to the way we treat ourselves and those around us in order to cultivate the peace and Luv we seek in the world.

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Stop Burning Wishes

There are individuals and groups doing what they can to stop wishes from coming true for others. If you are someone who has been a roadblock to others so they may not turn their dreams into reality, ask yourself why.  Why do you believe you must create obstacles to prevent certain people from bettering their life? 

You do not have to fear the progress of others.  Have enough confidence in yourself where you won't feel the need to spend your time doing what you can to block people from attaining their goals because you fear it will take away from your accomplishments, your capacity to keep living the life you have, or be afraid it will somehow seize your opportunities from improving your life. 

Instead of spending your time and energy on destroying others happiness, spend that energy and time on building your trust in your own abilities to keep or create the life you want for yourself.  You do not need to burn down other homes in order to keep your own home standing on a strong foundation. You do not have to crumble peace in the lives of others in order to use their rubble to build peace in yours. You do not have to bind hands, silence lips, or devastate their lives for you to be able to create, speak, or be alive. Stop believing you have to blow out the light in others in order for you to shine. Realize what caused these thoughts to find a place in your mind, finding their way to take over your inner-peace and having you project this inner-battle into an outer war.  In recognition of knowing the source, you are able to defeat it. At that moment you are able to choose what you want to do now.  Do you want to destroy or build?  

You want safety, so does everyone else. You want shelter, so does everyone else. You want happiness, so does everyone else. You want freedom, so does everyone else. You want Luv, so does everyone else.  

Your fear and actions taken in regard to your need to stay on top is what is dimming your light. When others shine that is not a threat to you, we can all shine together.  For our lives to be better, we have to be better. For our world to be more at peace, we have to be at peace. For Luv to exist, we have to allow it to live. 

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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Energize Yourself

What do you do when you get tired, stressed, bored, or grouchy?  Identify, and then remember, the exact things you can do in order to restore your soul, energize your body, balance your day, and/or get back into a happier mood. Go for a hike through the mountains, ride your bike, take a drive to where you haven't been before, take photos, draw or paint a picture, or pamper yourself and take a hot bath, sit in your favorite spot and listen to music, or dance to your favorite songs. Make a list of what activities work for you and schedule some of the events into your daily or weekly routine until they become a habit. Make time for yourself to do what you Luv; for yourself and because your happiness is felt by those around you. 

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  

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Sake of friendship

When people are arguing neither one is listening to the core of the problem between the spaces of their hurt and insecurities masked in anger. As the dispute escalates words may be said that cannot be unheard, actions may take place that cannot be undone. When we work to be understanding, we're able to forgive others, and forgive ourselves.

So when we are embracing anger, instead of forgiveness; judgment, instead of understanding; pain, instead of healing; ego, instead of truth; take a breath, step back and remember that we are all functioning from our own level of consciousness. All of us are reacting from our life experienced-based interpretation of the given situation. When we take a moment to acknowledge this we can get ourselves back on track, for the sake of our friendship/relationships and also our own peace of mind.

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We project what is within, which is why Luv Mrk offers Impacting Perceptions, a transformative workshop to explore our personal views and how these interpretations affect self and relationships with others. Discover how outside influences from our experiences and environment to the media shapes our perceptions which in turn inspire our choices and actions. When we identify the beneficial and/or destructive impact our beliefs have on our lives we can then consciously choose to evolve our approach to the way we treat ourselves and those around us in order to cultivate the peace and Luv we seek in the world.

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Before the World Taught Us

Who were we when entering this world?  Who were we before the world taught us?

As children we were taught how to speak, walk, tie our shoes, and all other necessary abilities to function in life. During this time we were also absorbing our surroundings, taking in the language and mannerisms of those around us. As we repeated what we heard or saw, our parents/guardians would commend the behavior they accepted or reprimanded the behavior they considered to be unacceptable.   Depending on the treatment we wanted we would choose our conduct accordingly.

In addition to our parents we had several other teachers. Everyday we were fed the views of our family, peers, TV shows, movies, videos, music, magazines, books, billboards, and the news.  What part of those views did we take in for our own?  When did we realize if our thoughts are our own or recycled beliefs we were taught. When or how do we know if we are truly being our authentic self?  If we are parents, what are we passing on to our children? If we are leaders what are we passing on to those who trust us?

This is not to say we are completely brainwashed individuals walking around as programmed robots.  We developed our own personalities, have things we like or don't like rather anyone agrees with us or not; and have paths we choose to take whether certain people approve or don't. Don't worry, no one is taking away an identity you built for yourself. Yet, when you start to realize how much you are actually you and how much is a concoction of your teachings, it can really make you think how much of you is you.  

This does not have to be a bad thing. Lessons and experiences have shaped us into the people we are today and we have all had our own different journeys. One journey doesn't need to be viewed as better or more right than another.

If you realize you are not walking on a path you paved for yourself, then make a conscious choice and effort to construct your own. On your path to waking up to the real you, know that others are walking a path paved for them as well, or they are paving a different road that is more fitting for them. There is not one road that we need to follow. This awareness can minimize the judgments that can turn into fear, anger, and altercations and increase understandings that can turn into peace. 

We're in this world together wanting happiness, safety, peace, freedom, and Luv. Know yourself. Be yourself. Luv yourself. Understand others. Coexist with others. Luv others.

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We project what is within, which is why Luv Mrk offers Impacting Perceptions, a transformative workshop to explore our personal views and how these interpretations affect self and relationships with others. Discover how outside influences from our experiences and environment to the media shapes our perceptions which in turn inspire our choices and actions. When we identify the beneficial and/or destructive impact our beliefs have on our lives we can then consciously choose to evolve our approach to the way we treat ourselves and those around us in order to cultivate the peace and Luv we seek in the world.

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Choose Luv

"I have been emotionally broken and have made mistakes that still echo today.  Yet, I am not a broken person. I have mended my pieces to learn from experiences and came out stronger.  I remember the fragments that have made me who I am today, all the beauty and pain it encompasses.  I am who I am and through my imperfections and fading scars I choose Luv."

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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Allow Yourself to Have Fun

There is so much going on in the world where life can get you down. Anger and sorrow will not bring a better tomorrow. Allow yourself to feel your emotions to go through the healing process, yet do not stay in the pain and hurt. Release what you cannot control and fix what you can. However, if there is a problem that should not be ignored and it appears to be deeply rooted beyond what you can fix, keep doing what you can, because any steps in improving an issue, get's you to reaching the solution. 

In the meantime, you deserve inner-peace.  Allow yourself to release the weight of the world for awhile.  Have fun. Let your heart feel the genuine bellows of laughter and your soul the warmth of a smile.  Take some time to travel into the innocent minds of the youth where earth is a playground, everyday is an adventure, and life is whatever you decide it to be. In this moment you will be in peace.  

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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What Are You Creating?

Everyday the thoughts we have and the words we speak are paving our path.  Everything we see, how we see it and what we decide to do about it is creating our journey.   Realize the power you have and decide what life you are building for yourself.

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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Are You Happy?

If you're not happy and you want to know why not, you can find out by assessing where you are at in this point of your life.  How satisfied are you with your career, relationships, health, and life engagement? Is it easy for you to maintain friendships? Are you pleased with your professional position? Do you have enough time you dedicate to just yourself to do something you enjoy?

If there are areas you would like to improve on ask yourself what is holding you back. Are you having dreams or setting goals? Are you making excuses or making plans? Are you competing to be better than others or doing what you can to be better than the person you were yesterday? Are you comparing where you are at in this stage of your life to others or focusing on your own path?  Are you saying can't more than can? If it's career related are you trusting your abilities? If it's relationship related are you knowing your worth?  Pay attention to your thoughts and actions, if they aren't serving you then it's time to make a change. 

Once you know what areas you need to work on, you actually need to do the work to better your situation. If you know what career you want then take the steps to get there.  Do you need training? Obtain a certification? Whatever is required to attain the desired profession, believe in yourself, know you can do it, stay determined, and actively do the work.  Any obstacles come in your way, look at them as an opportunity to find an alternative solution. Every time you keep pushing forward your are becoming more prepared and will gain confidence.

Allow yourself to learn and grow from any setbacks or struggles you face in any area of your life because when you work through the hard times you can become stronger and wiser.  Not the stronger that turns you into being a hard shell, but stronger in your belief in yourself and knowing that when things become challenging and even heart breaking, you will get through it and come out better.

When it comes to improving any areas in your life, evaluate how you got there so you won’t allow it to be an impediment any longer.  Set achievable steps to reach your goals and follow through.  Know you deserve to live a fulfilled life and start living it.

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If you or someone you know needs to receive assistance in getting to the root of what has caused your fears, anger, sadness, lack of confidence, lack of love for self and others, emotional pain, and other damaging feelings holding you back from happiness, one on one coaching is available. Transformational tools are provided to replace language and thoughts that block progress to constructive words and beliefs opening you up to your capabilities. Recognize your ability to overcome battles and charge through obstacles. Stop having dreams and pursue goals. Take control of your life to live it for you and not by the expectations of others. Know your worth. Luv yourself. Luv others. Ultimately bring to surface the power, inner strength, and courage you have to be your authentic self.  Contact us for more information.

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Perception

Definition: The recognition and interpretation of sensory stimuli based chiefly off memory; a single unified awareness derived from sensory processes while a stimulus is present; the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses; a way of regarding, understanding, or interpreting something; a mental impression; the neurophysiological processes, including memory, by which an organism becomes aware of and interprets external stimuli...

How do your perceptions affect your life?  Don't worry this isn’t about looking at your perceptions as being right or wrong.  I get it, once we grasp our own understanding of how life works, we customarily hold onto our viewpoints and defend them when we feel someone is trying to have us see through a lens we aren’t accustomed to or have no desire to look through.  We feel they are trying to shred the fabric that makes up our being in order to change us or tell us we’re wrong. Don't get caught up on right or wrong, just acknowledge how your views impact you and your relationship with others.

We treat ourselves and others congruent to how we view ourselves and others.  For instance, if you see someone as a kind and loving person, then you may in return treat them with kindness. That is, if you like compassionate people.  What about how you treat yourself? Are you living how you want to be living right now?  If so, it's because you see yourself as capable of living the life you want. If you see yourself as intelligent, skilled, business savvy, and innovative then you'll have enough confidence to start that business you have been thinking of, or apply for that position in the career field of your choice.  If you see yourself as attractive, then you'll have the confidence to ask that person you're interested in on a date.   If you see yourself as strong, you know you have that drive to push through and overcome challenges life throws at you. If you see yourself as an adventurous traveler, you explore.  

Our actions are governed by our thoughts stemmed from our perceptions. When we take a moment to be more aware of how we perceive ourselves, others, and events, we can identify the beneficial and/or destructive impact our interpretations are having in our lives and at that point decide if we want or need to do something about it. If you want to get that job, get that promotion, have better friends, if there is anything you want, pay attention to how you see yourself and what you're telling yourself. That is the driving force that can take you where you want to go or keep you on the same road you keep telling yourself is right for you.

Knowledge is vital, accountability and action is power.

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We project what is within, which is why Luv Mrk offers Impacting Perceptions, a transformative workshop consisting of brain teaser exercises, illusions, videos and activities used to explore our personal views and how these interpretations affect self and relationships with others. Discover how outside influences from our experiences and environment to the media shapes our perceptions which in turn inspire our choices and actions. When we identify the beneficial and/or destructive impact our beliefs have on our lives we can then consciously choose to evolve our approach to the way we treat ourselves and those around us in order to cultivate the peace and Luv we seek in the world.

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Start A New Story

We cannot erase the past, but we can NOW BE THE SOLUTION.

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Luv Mrk offers workshops, kindness campaigns, and apparel to promote treating ourselves and others with respect, kindness, peace, and Luv.

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