Be kind to yourself

9. Be kind to yourself

Seems intuitive and self explanatory but what does being kind to yourself really mean? Eat right, exercise and get plenty of sleep are the tried and true standbys. No one will argue that following those three precepts are the basis of taking care of yourself. But let's expand that thought. Define your style of kindness. If you were being kind to someone, what would that look like? Maybe a smile for a stranger. Make it a smile for yourself. A helping hand? Give yourself a helping hand if you are struggling with something by seeking some support. Don't judge yourself (or others) if you make a mistake. The truth is we all make so many mistakes that there must be a great reason for our missteps!

Another important aspect of being kind to yourself is make sure you spend some time doing what you like to do. Only you know what recharges you. If you don't know (and that happens sometimes) be sure and explore those areas. Discard what no longer serves you and try things you think may interest you. The world is your playground. Let the games begin but keep yourself surrounded in kindess!

Don't be afraid to say yes

8. Don't be afraid to say YES

Love this one. I'm expanding my comments here from  saying yes to favors, social events or other daily happenings to saying yes to venture outside your comfort zone occasionally.  It can be a little intimidating and maybe even frightening but the rewards are great. All sorts of adventures, experiences and growth lie outside of the comfort realm. Just think about it! (PS, Thanks for checking my blog Fauzia!)

Don't be afraid to say no

7. Don't be afraid to say no

Are you a "people pleaser"? Do you say yes when you really want to say no? If so, you are not alone. If you have already learned that your world won't crumble if "no" is your answer then congratulations. (You may want to wait until the next post!) If No is what you really mean then saying No is powerful. It is also more liberating if you stay away from "in between" phrases. A guideline for me is:

 If it is my joy and pleasure to accommodate a request then yes is appropriate. IF NOT, then NO works for me!

Never give up on your dreams

5. Never give up on your dreams

I've been contemplating this one for a while. On its face it seems pretty straightforward but I think it may need some explanation. Making a dream become reality is multifaceted. According to Mike Dooley, motivational speaker and author, many people become bogged down in the "How To's" of their dream. While it is true that consistent action needs to be taken,  success also involves a specific mindset. You must not only believe your dream is available but you must "act as if" it has already your reality. For more on this, Dooley, has written an intriguing book you might want to explore, INFINITE POSSIBILITIES: The art of living your dreams. Happy reading!

Bar Exam Hell

Congratulations to Ann Elliott Adams Bryan

She did an incredible job of staying focused and determined through the grueling weeks leading up the the bar exam and then through the actual exam. If you have ever taken the bar exam ( more specifically taken it in the past 10 years (just guessing on that number)) you know what an incredible amount of preparation is required. If you are an out of state applicant you know the added stress of sitting for the Florida bar. And if you are a spouse, significant other or someone close to the person aspiring to pass the exam, you can only watch in disbelief witnessing the hours spent studying the impossible amount of information they are expected to know. If you fall into any of these categories, you will be thoroughly amused at the creative posts on
barexamhell.tumblr.com


Congratulations does not come close to what I'm trying to convey to Annie and to everyone who endured this grueling ordeal. Kinda makes law school look like a picnic from where I'm sitting.

The great news is that it is over! Watching her strength, resilience and courage (yes courage at times) was inspiring. So Proud and really excited to have been a part of this amazing journey! If you know someone who has just sat for the bar exam, give them some well deserved TLC!

PS... I'm sure her blog will be back on track soon. If you haven't checked it out yet, it is a great site. Happy reading. annelliott.blogspot.com