Your mind is profoundly powerful.

I firmly believe that your reality is molded by the interplay of your thoughts and feelings.

Your thoughts and feelings drive your actions and the energy you bring to any given situation, and these factors influence the outcome of the situation.

Challenge yourself to simply STOP for a minute and pause to realize that you are in control of your actions in every moment. This is especially important if you are feeling anxious, irritable, or any other trying emotion. It is your choice to feel this way, or not feel this way. The rest of the day is unwritten. You can turn around and feel differently right now. 

You can create a positive outcome.

I'll confess that last night I was so nervous to return to work. I couldn't pinpoint a specific reason other than it had been a few months since I was last home from college working.
My stomach was twisting in knots when it suddenly occurred to me that I was being silly. My shift had not even started! It was unwritten--a fresh, clear slate!
I had the power to control myself and what I was going to write on that slate.
I pictured myself remaining calm, collected, and confident through anything that came my way. I pictured myself communicating clearly with others and enjoying the camaraderie and teamwork. I pictured myself working skillfully and efficiently.
Lo and behold, I ended having a wonderful first night back.

Remember that you are not your thoughts or emotions, but rather the awareness behind them. Have you ever jumped with the rhythm of the waves in the ocean? Picture yourself doing this when you experience a thought or emotion that you don't want to feel...simply ride the wave and let it pass.

Today, I challenge you to work with your thoughts and feelings rather than against them. Harness your mind and use this beautiful and powerful organ to create the reality you want to be living. Don't judge yourself for whatever runs through your mind. Your thoughts only define you if you let them. 

Let's make today beautiful.

As always, please feel free to share any thoughts, questions, or suggestions in a comment!