Do lazy days make you feel rested or unproductive?
By Tracy Schruder
“Lazy days used to fill me with guilt and feelings of unproductivity. I’d push myself too hard the next day, trying to make up for lost time. The voice in my head would harass me with to-do lists and what-ifs, making me feel like I was slacking off.”
“I’d overcommit myself at work and with friends, never daring to say no. But I never stopped to consider that lazy days were my body, mind, and soul’s way of telling me to slow down and recharge.”
“That was until I changed my point of view on the topic. Now I see lazy days as a blessing. I enjoy the freedom to lay around, meditate, and indulge in my favorite shows and read my favourite blogs, without feeling guilty about it.”
“I listen to my own needs. I’ve let go of the illusion that I need to constantly be doing something useful . Lazy days are my time to unwind, reflect, and rejuvenate. I’ve learned to be grateful for them.”
“When the target makes a stand, the narcissistic family dynamic falls apart. As a caring and empathetic individual, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of being entangled in a web of manipulation and abuse. Your compassion and understanding can make you a target for the narcissist, their enablers, and flying monkeys.
The most painful part is that these people are your family – the very ones you’re taught to trust and care for. Growing up, your empathy and compassion may have been exploited, setting a pattern for toxic relationships in adulthood. If left unchecked, they’ll lie, manipulate, use, and even harm you to get what they want.
Narcissists thrive on drama and are consumed by jealousy. They can’t bear to see you succeed or live your life without their influence. But I’ve learned that it’s possible for them to back off and cut ties for good. And trust me, it’s the best thing that ever happened to me.
After setting boundaries and prioritizing my own well-being, I’ve gained confidence, courage, and a sense of freedom. I’ve surrounded myself with decent people who respect me, and I’ve let go of the desperate need to cling to toxic family members.
When I laid out my boundaries, I gave them a chance to respect my wishes. But they chose to be offended and argumentative, denying any wrongdoing. I stood firm, asserting my right to prioritize my own emotional safety. The outcome was unexpected – they deleted me from social media, and in a twist, they deleted each other too. We’ve lost contact as a family, but I’ve gained so much more.
It’s clear that setting boundaries is essential to breaking free from narcissistic abuse. If you’re struggling with similar dynamics, know that you’re not alone. Prioritize your own healing, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries to protect yourself.”
When you think of the word “successful,” who’s the first person that comes to mind and why?
By Tracy Schruder
When I think of the word successful, the first person that comes to mind is Bob Proctor.
Bob Proctor
Bob Proctor’s life story is a remarkable tale of transformation. Born in 1934 in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, he grew up in a poor community during the Great Depression. As a young man, he struggled to find direction, dropping out of high school and working various low-skilled jobs. He even served in the Canadian Royal Navy, although he never got to sail on a ship.
Proctor’s life took a dramatic turn when he was introduced to Napoleon Hill’s book “Think and Grow Rich” at age 26. This book, along with guidance from a mentor, Raymond Stanford, helped him shift his mindset and focus on achieving success. Proctor’s business ventures flourished, and he eventually became a successful entrepreneur and motivational speaker.
Some key points about Bob Proctor’s backstory include; Early Struggles: Proctor faced significant challenges in his early life, including poverty and lack of direction.
Mentorship: He credits his mentor, Raymond Stanford, and authors like Napoleon Hill and Earl Nightingale, for helping him transform his life.
Business Success: Proctor built a successful business empire, earning over $100,000 in his first year with his office cleaning services company.
Personal Development:He dedicated his life to teaching others about personal growth, the law of attraction, and success strategies through his books, seminars, and workshops.
Legacy: Proctor’s teachings have inspired millions, and his legacy continues through the Proctor Gallagher Institute, which he co-founded with Sandy Gallagher.
Throughout his life, Proctor emphasized the importance of mindset, goal-setting, and personal growth. His story serves as a testament to the power of transformation and the potential for individuals to change their lives through dedication and hard work.
Bob’s success is inspiring. I first encountered Bob, when I watched the movie ‘ The Secret’ written by Rhonda Byrne. I was impressed with his confidence and knowledge. I had to know more about him and maybe, take his advice seriously. After the movie, I bought a myriad of books, including
12 Power Principles for Success: Proctor distills his decades of experience into 12 key principles for achieving success and living a purposeful life.
Thoughts Are Things Co-authored with Greg S. Reid, this book explores the power of thought and its impact on reality.
When I realized that Bob was also a Canadian and that he grew up, not two hours from my hometown, I became even more interested in his work. I thought if a small town Canadian boy could make a life like his, in spite of his roots, then we all had a chance to. The more I learned about his methods, the more I implemented them into my own life. I was living proof that the man knew his magic. I began taking my life seriously and listening to my self-talk. I journaled about my steps and what I wanted to do to find my own success. I had nothing but positive results, stemming and blooming, from his advice.
I was working two jobs at the time, with only my high-school diploma to lean on. I realized that in order to bring the success that I wanted into my life, I would have to up-my-game. I invested in myself, went back to school and completed the education required, to live my dream. I’m now a successful Reiki teacher-practitioner. I run my Reiki business out of my home and online. I do what I love to do and Bob Proctor’s inspiring life story and teachings helped me greatly achieve this.
In Conclusion: The reason Bob Proctor is the first person to come to mind, when I think of the word ‘successful’ is out of respect and out of the truth in the results of his methods. Not only did the man overcome tough obstacles, He excelled in helping others do the same. In my opinion he’s the epitome of the word Successful.
I live in the country. I moved here to enjoy the privacy that goes along with it. I’m a nature lover and spend a lot of time, outside in my beautiful backyard.
My backyard
The location is perfect to watch the sun rise every morning.
Sunrise from my front yard
My Neighbours enjoy the same things. We share the same ideals when it comes to privacy.
Heavy row of trees
There is a heavy row of trees that separate our properties. Planted by the previous owner of this house.
My Neighbours lived here for thirty years before we moved in. They welcomed us when we moved here and left an open invitation to get together for coffee anytime. If there’s a party going on, there’s always a notification and an invitation. They are nice people. Although we’ve never taken them up on their offers nor they, ours, there’s a silent understanding and a deep respect for the privacy we both came here for. We’ve never had to reach out for help, them either but we are there for each other none the less. To me that’s what makes a good neighbour and I’m extremely grateful to mine.
I’ve always admired watercolour paintings. As an artist, I’ve always used either acrylic or oil paints. I relish the idea of creating a painting with watercolour paints. Writing this blog has inspired me to do this today. I have a nice palette of various colours that I’ve never used and today, I will crack the seal. I truly enjoy trying different paint mediums. I’m excited to see the results.
The only question now is “ paper or canvas ?” I think that I will choose canvas.
After preparing all of my supplies; rinsing water, clean water, various brushes, canvas and water paint pallets, I’m ready to get to work. I’ve aligned my drawing table, set up my chair and turned my imagination into high gear. What should I create? A local landscape? Maybe, something a little more unique, like the old, falling down barn from up the road? It has an interesting perspective, like a will of sorts, to keep on standing. Even though it’s foundation has sunken into the ground, deeply on the south side. I imagine the history of that simple building. It once was sturdy and strong. A home for many domestic creatures, over its lifetime. It radiates a memory of days of old, when local farms were abundant, here. When driving up this country road sent odours of cow manure and hay, through the open windows and up your nose. Yes, that’s what I will paint, I will paint the Barn. I will do my best to capture the feelings it invokes and give it the creative credit it deserves. In conclusion, today I will try to paint a painting with watercolour paints, for the first time.
The internet has become a source of detachment, stripping away the essence of human connection. Initially designed to facilitate anonymous sharing, including controversial content, the internet has evolved into a tool that both unites and isolates. While it enables rapid communication and convenient shopping, it also facilitates disconnection and theft – not just of material goods, but of meaningful relationships.
I’ve lost touch with numerous individuals from my real world, some significant, some not. The internet has diminished the value of genuine human interaction. Our words, actions, and true intentions are often lost in digital translation. I’ve come to realize that online messaging, though useful, can never replace the depth of in-person connections. We can’t replicate the nuances of human interaction – a glance, a tone, an energy – in a digital format.
The internet promises anonymity, but at what cost? It takes courage to be vulnerable, to show up authentically. Instead, we’re often left with “keyboard courage” and a false sense of security. This detachment enables us to ghost people, cutting ties without consequence. In contrast, real-life interactions demand accountability and respect.
It’s time to reclaim our humanity and redefine the internet’s role in our lives. We don’t need the internet to dictate our relationships or define our connections. Let’s use it judiciously, for purposes that uplift and unite us – like humanitarian efforts and knowledge sharing.
We deserve better. Let’s rediscover the joy of genuine human connection.
Head out to the library and actually pick up a physical book and read it. The feeling of the pages as they become unstuck from your fingers as you turn the pages is a delightful sensation.
Go shopping, even if just to browse. If you see someone you know, say hi and ask them how their day is going. Enjoy the freedom of actually seeing, touching and feeling what you are buying. Make a lunch date and actually go out to your favourite restaurant to enjoy a meal with another person. Call a friend or family member today. Visit someone who may have drifted apart. Engage with the world around you. Reclaim your humanity and find freedom in authentic relationships.
We do not need the internet. We not only survived but we thrived without it. Person to person connections are extremely important and we must remember that we are human. We have feelings and emotions and they cannot be shared effectively on the internet. We need each other in more ways than we realize. Turn off your computer or cellphone today and get out in the world. Be alive with the beautiful energy of connection.
In Ireland’s lush, emerald hills, where myth and magic entwine, a legendary tale of bravery and compassion is about to unfold.
Frankie
Meet Frankie, a courageous and selfless heroine who embarks on a treacherous quest to vanquish the tyrannical Roaring Dragon and liberate the enslaved Screaming Monkeys.
Roaring Dragon,Screaming Monkeys
Guided by ancient wisdom and fueled by the power of love, Frankie confronts her greatest challenge yet. Will she succeed in taming the dragon’s heart, or will she succumb to his darkness? Dive into this captivating tale of adventure, friendship, and the transformative power of love.
I live by three sets of principles; work, private and public. The defining factors present themselves as they come.
My work principals come from my extensive training and the rules that govern my reiki practice they are:
Just for today, do not anger, Just for today, do not worry, Just for today, be grateful, Just for today, do your work honestly, and Just for today, be kind to all living things.
My private principles come from living and learning and doing what is best for my highest good. They are,
Self-Awareness, I recognize my strengths, weaknesses, values, and emotions.
Self-Discipline, I practice self-control, self-regulation, and personal responsibility.
Authenticity, I’m always true to myself , my values, and my beliefs.
Resilience, I’m always developing coping strategies and I learn from my setbacks and failures. Gratitude, I cultivate appreciation and thankfulness for life’s blessings and opportunities.
My public principles come from how I respond to the people around me in public places. They are; Respect, I treat others with kindness, consideration, and dignity.
Integrity, I act with honesty, transparency, and ethics in all interactions.
Responsibility, I take ownership of my actions and their consequences.
Empathy, I strive to understand and appreciate different perspectives and experiences. Accountability, I am answerable for my actions and decisions.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
By Tracy Schruder
The Best painting advice I ever received was Trust the medium – Use less.
When I first started painting, some of my canvas pieces finished up like sculptures. I used only oil paints and was extremely inexperienced with that medium. I was heavy on the paint, utilizing the wet-on-wet technique, which involves applying liquid white or black and oil paints directly onto wet paint. I really enjoyed using my brushes, but I especially enjoyed using the palette knife. Like most people, I started out with a Bob Ross tutorial. I learned how to create spectacular skies and would use the palette knife to craft landscape paintings. I particularly enjoyed doing mountain scenes with streams. I often employed the breaking-the-paint technique using my palette knife.
As I was inexperienced, I used a ton of paint, making my paintings beautiful but thick and heavy. I was afraid to use less, I guess. When I sold my first painting, I was ecstatic. It was a landscape scene from a location in Lanark, Ontario. It depicted a beautiful double waterfall cascading off a rocky mountain area, with a lot of rocks and foliage – it was a challenging piece. It was a commissioned piece, and the client chose the location and provided me with a photo. Its size was 80×36 inch canvas. It turned out beautifully, and paradoxically, I learned not to be afraid of the paint and gained the faith to use less.
I bought fresh supplies and a big bottle of paint thinner. It was the first piece I ever completed without it looming like a sculpture. I used far less paint and had greater success; the canvas finished up with texture and depth without that thick, bulky look. Today, I’m much more confident, and I use all different mediums and tools to complete my art.
Today I painted this piece called ‘The Woods’. It’s an 18×24 inch acrylic on canvas.
Hand mudras are my go-to for recharging my energy. They’re easy and convenient and don’t take up a lot of time. They can be done anywhere and anytime. I often use these mudras when I’m required to speak in public, teaching my students or clients, during a regular conversation or simply sitting quietly, in my car, during a traffic jam. They bring me relief during and after challenging situations or disagreements. I clear my mind and am able to offer a more conscientious response to problems. I enjoy using and teaching hand mudras and mantras to anyone who is interested in learning them. I have a lot of faith in their effectiveness because on my own experiences with practicing them. I’ve also observed important people such as presidents and actors use these mudras during interviews and speeches. However, the public often mistakes Hand Mudras for something else, like freemason or devil worship symbols. I can only assume that it’s likely due to a lack of knowledge about this ancient technique, or simply for entertainment purposes.
Hand mudras are symbolic gestures made with the hands and fingers that influence the body’s energy flow, promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. They’re rooted in yoga and ancient Eastern traditions.
Hand Mudras and Benefits; Energy Recharge: Mudras can help replenish and balance your energy. Convenience: As I’ve noted, they can be practiced anywhere, anytime. Stress Relief: Certain mudras help alleviate stress and anxiety. Mental Clarity: Mudras can promote a clearer, more focused mind. Physical Health:
Various mudras target specific health benefits.
Various Hand Mudras
Gyan Mudra: Enhances memory, concentration, and gives a sense of security.
Apana Mudra: Helpful for diabetes, constipation, and strengthens leg joints.
Hold for 5-20 minutes, focusing on breath or intention.
Practice regularly for cumulative benefits.
Hand Mudras- Each of the Mudras activate different chakras.
Conclusion I use hand mudras and mantras recharge my energy and help me to move forward with confidence and clarity. I also use them during Chakra cleansing or activation sessions. I highly recommend them as a simple and effective technique to anyone who wants to get an energy boost without too much hassle. Thanks for Stopping by 🩵 Tracy 🩵
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