SparkPeople.com Inspiration emails

I wanted to share with you some of the inspiration emails I receive from sparkpeople.com.
The make so much sense.

2/24/2008
Stepping closer to the light at the end of the tunnel
Hard times are inevitable--death, financial struggle, family problems, the loss of a job, depression--all of these tough times are just seasons. Abraham Lincoln once said, "This too shall pass," and you can apply it to both the good times and the bad. The thrill of a new relationship won't endure forever, just as the grief of losing a loved one won't either. So endure the hardships of life, knowing that time will eventually heal your wounds and you will make it through. Think about what struggles have occurred in your life and what they taught you. No matter how dim the light at the end of the tunnel seems, it is still a light. Each day is an opportunity for that light of hope to get closer and closer, until eventually the clouds above your head part and you feel the forgotten sunshine on you again. Overcoming pain makes you stronger and better equipped to handle the next valley.

2/28/2008
The secrets of positive people
Positive people tend to have many similar characteristics, such as respecting everyone's contribution to a project and knowing during hard times that things will get better. They have the power to make that change happen, an understanding that their attitudes can directly affect outcomes, and a commitment to increasing positive thoughts and diminishing negative ones. Are you putting effort towards becoming a more positive person? Avoid complaining when things are turning sour, realize that the negatives and the positives in life will level out, and take responsibility for your life and actions. You are the only person responsible for your attitude--and your life.

2/29/2008
Think twice, speak once
The idea of choosing your words carefully sounds easy enough, but how many times do you end up with your foot in your mouth? Everyone can probably recall a situation where someone offended them by saying something rude or out of line. These comments are not only embarrassing, but they can also damage relationships. Even the way you talk to yourself can be hurtful. Instead of saying "I can't," replace it with "I wish." Swap "I'm a failure" with "I didn't succeed this time." If you say the wrong thing in front of others, chances are that people will remember it. Wouldn't you prefer to be remembered for something more positive? Once you have said something out loud it cannot be taken back, and rarely can it be undone even with a tremendous amount of work.

3/5/2008
What are you investing your time in?
Work is certainly important. Only those who are incredibly wealthy would tell you that money is of no importance. Without question, we need to work to provide for our families and ourselves. Most people don't stop to really embody the idea that work is not the most important thing, however. What is of more importance is family, friends, and investing your time in those relationships. Next time you find yourself toiling over your notes for an upcoming meeting, contemplate the message you are sending. Think about what is truly a necessity in your life and actively invest your time in those things.

3/12/2008
Letting your optimism out
We all have natural talents and abilities that we bring to any given situation. Likewise our motivations are usually different as well. Some are motivated by money and success, others by a need for recognition, and still others by the simple satisfaction of doing a good job. But what determines HOW you behave is your attitude. Positive people are often respected, and others naturally gravitate towards them. Conversely, no one likes being around a chronic downer or someone who complains all the time. Next time someone says "Good morning," really embrace the idea! No one can take away the good feelings you have inside, so let them shine!

3/17/2008
The sweetness of reflecting on a dream
Setting goals is easy. The tough part is putting time and hard work into realizing those dreams. The energy you are willing to put forth to reach your dreams is directly related to the probability of achieving them. Above all, be patient with the situation and with yourself. Don't lose your way by being blinded by disappointment, frustrations, and failures. Ponder the goals in your life and the obstacles you might face. Make appropriate plans to overcome those roadblocks even before they occur. Think of the reward of reflecting on a goal you have reached, rather than one you failed to see through. Most big dreams involve big effort!

At least once a week.. I'll post at least 6 of them.