As the holidays approach and you receive gifts from family and friends, you may have the thought, “It’s better to give than to receive.” This holiday season I encourage you to find joy in this paradigm shift: Give the gift of receiving by accepting with an open and grateful heart. Receive with grace. Occasionally a… [Read More]
Have Faith
Faith can be difficult to understand and even more challenging to practice. But when you have faith, it provides focus, energy, and the courage to act — it transforms you. Today I’m sharing thoughts on the power of faith in your life, career, and for your soul. Warmly, Melanie Ott Inspirational Thoughts “Faith is believing when it is… [Read More]
Let It Go!
The popular children’s movie has made it catchy to tell ourselves and others to Let It Go! But releasing what does not serve us is easier said than done. Let’s explore why we hold on to things, knowing when to relax our grip, and the freedom and power that flow from letting go. Inspirational Thoughts “Sometimes letting things… [Read More]
Live Boldly: Life Larger than Your Fears
Fear. You’ve experienced it: Sweating, chills, gut-wrenching nausea, difficulty breathing, and a racing heart. Fear is hardwired into your brain to protect you from danger – but it can also consume your energy, hinder your progress, and choke your spirit. Next time you feel fear’s grip, ask yourself, “Who could I be and what would I do if I… [Read More]
Make A U-Turn
If you’ve ever made a decision, then realized you needed to change course – or sensed your life is headed in the wrong direction – this newsletter is for you! We’re talking about making a U-turn: turning your life around to align with your intentions and purpose. Warmly, Melanie Ott Inspirational Thoughts “They always say… [Read More]
“And Above All: To Thine Own Self Be True.”
A tremendous part of appreciating and loving yourself is learning to be true to yourself. Knowing what you stand for and what you believe gives you tremendous power. And learning to accept yourself as you are, instead of constantly striving to reshape yourself, creates greater self-love. For example, say you’re not a morning person. Instead of… [Read More]
Invest in Your Mind, Body, and Spirit
At its highest level, self-acceptance is a form of self-love. People who love themselves take good care of their mind, body, and spirit. Nourish your mind by going back to school for that degree, requesting a “stretch” assignment at work, learning a musical instrument or a new language, or tackling crossword or Sudoku puzzles. Care for… [Read More]
Self-Kindness & Acceptance
My hope for you in 2016 is that you create a lifelong practice of self-kindness and acceptance. Instead of being your toughest critic, learn to accept your weaknesses, honor your strengths, and have greater compassion for your own “humanness.” Warmly, Melanie Ott Inspirational Thoughts “Love yourself first, and everything else falls in line.” ~ Lucille Ball “You yourself,… [Read More]
Let Go of These 5 Things to Cultivate Joy
When you’re working hard to cultivate joy in your life, several unhealthy behaviors and attitudes can stand in your way and keep you from experiencing true, deeply-rooted joy. Let go of these five obstacles to cultivate joy in your life. Let Go of the Past. Constantly looking back – whether it’s dwelling on regret or… [Read More]
Cultivate Joy
As the year draws to a close, I encourage my friends, family, and clients to cultivate joy. By purposely choosing to be joyful, you will reclaim peace, wonder, and gratitude in all aspects of your life. Warmly, Melanie Ott Inspirational Thoughts “Joy is not in things … it is in us.” ~ Richard Wagner “Joy… [Read More]