 Photo by HT Photography: Little Lessons Learned by Dana "You're only as old as you feel." ~ Paul Simon I recently celebrated my 55th birthday. When I say celebrated, I truly mean it because I feel sincerely comfortable in my own skin, and I am in a very good place right now. I feel fabulous! I haven't always felt this way, but since January of this year, I've been committed to improving my health in a holistic manner. The desire was always there, but recent health challenges have truly lit a fire under me. My motivation has hit an all-time high. (Who is this person? I know, right?) Let me explain... Several months ago, I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. I knew something was wrong because night after night, I would wake myself (and others) up with my constant snoring. Every morning, I was left completely exhausted. After my sleep study, I wasn't surprised by the diagnosis, but I was shocked by the severity of my case. A severe case of sleep apnea is described as "30 or more breathing interruptions." I didn't have 30 interruptions, or even 50, but 117 breathing interruptions an hour! I was like: "Wait, what?" The technician said it was one of the most severe cases he had ever seen. Upon receiving this information, three thoughts popped into my head:
Throw in high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and now we're really having some good times.  Photo by Pixabay Part of my new routine has been completely stepping up my diet and exercise program. Protein and whole foods are a priority each day on my menu. I also now go to the gym faithfully and attend a fitness class twice weekly with my son, Tyler, called Building Better Bodies. In this class, we lift weights, do step work, and complete TRX strap exercises. Together with Tyler by my side and a great trainer (Thank you, Scott!), I am doing things I seriously thought I could NEVER do. Not only am I doing it, but I am LOVING it! Mindset is EVERYTHING. If you tell yourself that something is beyond you, it will be. If you tell yourself you will fail, you will. If you tell yourself that change is possible for everyone but you, then it will be. In my case, I always told myself that these classes were way too advanced for me and I was doomed to fail if I even tried. But then one day, I had a NEW thought. I dared to think that maybe, just maybe, if I could muster the courage to actually try an advanced workout class, I might just be successful! This change in thought process made all the difference.  Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com Why is it that we are so often our own worst enemy? Why can't we all just be our own best friend? Believing in yourself is truly the first key to success. We often sabotage our progress by having limiting beliefs. These beliefs keep us stuck, impeding us from the rich and healthy life that God intended us to have. Why do I share this information with you? To brag? Absolutely not. I truly hope you do not see it that way. I am not special. I am just a simple person who is taking small steps to change her life for the better. If I can do it, anyone can. My hope is to provide you with encouragement. We only get one go-around in life, and I want my journey to be the best it can be. I encourage you to have the courage to step out in faith in the areas that you need to change. I believe in you and know you are capable of making changes that can transform your life in ways you never imagined. You can do hard things, and I am here to be your cheerleader if you need me. Call to Action
Take care, my friend. I must be going as I have a healthy lunch to pack and a few more steps to get in. Until next time, Dana Philippians 4:13 ~ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Please follow me on Facebook at Little Lessons Learned by Dana here. Tags: healthy lifestyle, healthy eating, exercise, goal setting, motivation, growth mindset, small steps, limiting beliefs, believe in yourself, lifestyle changeCopyright: © 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi)
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 Photo by Yuri Manei on Pexels The goal is to wake up each morning feeling overwhelmingly thankful for the kind of life you have created for yourself. ~ Unknown I heard a story recently about a gentleman who saved his money to buy a ticket going to a new country. It was to be a very exciting journey for him. As money was an issue though, he only brought crackers and cheese with him to consume for all his meals. Day after day, he passed by the beautiful dining room enthralled by all the people enjoying their wonderful meals. He was drawn in by the delicious scents of delectable dishes he smelled. Sadly, as he could not partake, it was very difficult for him feeling very left out day after day. When the boat docked, an employee of the dining room inquired why he had not come any days to eat the food? The server mentioned they had a place with his name on it each day, and everyone was wondering if there had been something about the food that was not to his liking. The gentleman quickly explained with a bit of embarrasssment that he had not purchased a ticket that included food. The server stated to the gentleman's GREAT surprise: "Sir, the ticket you bought included everything. All food was included." Wow! That story really resonated with me. I thought of how we all can be like that poor man with the crackers and cheese some days. There is so much available to us in life, yet we feel somehow unworthy, or we do not pursue action steps to work towards our best lives. We choose to settle, when we were meant to soar. You my friend are worthy of more in all aspects of life and here are some tips to get you there.  Photo by Helena Lopes on Pexels Know your worthYou are absolutely INCREDIBLE! Do you even know how amazing you are? In this whole wide world of ours, there is NO ONE exactly like you! You are an original masterpiece created by God for a specific purpose. Noone has your exact circle of influence, or unique skill set and the world needs you. Shine your light my friend, the world is blessed to have you in it.  Photo by Marcus Aurelius on Pexels Realize you are NEVER too old to changeWhen you look at how your life is going, and you notice areas needing improvement, know that you are never too old to change. There is no room for thinking like, "I am who am I, or that is just the way things will always be for me." I will have to call you out on that, because you are worthy of more. I am in my fifties and have had several health issues come my way recently. Thankfully they are manageable but these new diagnoses have lit a fire under me. As a result I am going to the gym faithfully, eating healthier, taking good supplements and medication and I am determined to turn my physical health around. I met with a trainer as well to get a strength training program going this summer. It was exciting, but I was also nervous. He was so encouraging and commended me for taking charge of my health. It felt very empowering. He also pointed out a vibrant and incredibly fit 92 year old who was working out right beside me. What an inspiration she was! I thought, If she can do it, I sure can!  Photo by Belle Co on Pexels Always strive to be your best selfWhat brings you joy? What inspires you? What fills your cup? Go after those things. Go after them with gusto. Schedule them into your daytimer with enthusiasm and look at them as appointments for YOU that cannot be missed. You cannot pour from an empty cup and when you are feeling full, inspired and built up in your spirit, your corner of the world benefits so much.  Understand that a wonderful life is God's plan for youIn John 10:10 it says: I have come that they may have life and have it to the full! God wants to be your friend and have a relationship with you. He has BIG plans for you and He desires for you to have a full and happy life. He literally has a buffet of blessings waiting for you. It is true. No table scraps on the menu for you my friends. If you are interested in having a relationship with God or would like to continue the conversation, please feel free to reach out. I would love to chat further with you. Well friends, I hope this gave you something to think about. Don't settle for a mediocre life. There is so much more for you than crackers and cheese in all aspects of your life and I so want you to realize that. Until next time, Dana John 10:10 ~ I have come that they may have life and have it to the full! Little Lesson Learned: Changing our lives takes courage and time, but you can do it. You deserve the best life ever!
Tags: made for more, goal setting, live your best life, God's will Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich "Excellence is the gradual result of always trying to do better." ~ Pat Riley The Summer Olympics will be starting soon and I for one will be watching with great excitement. I just watched the new Netflix documentary about Simone Biles entitled Rising. I highly recommend it. I am so proud of the progress she has made in her mental health journey. She has stepped back from the spotlight to focus on her healing and I can’t wait to see her in action at this year’s Olympics. I feel she is in such a better place in all aspects and it is wonderful to see her have another chance at Olympic gold, since having to step aside at the Tokyo Olympics. It is especially memorable to see the athletes achieve gold. I can only imagine how that must feel after years and years of training, to stand on the podium, see your flag raised and hear your national anthem played in your honour. Wow! I get goosebumps just thinking about it! It is the moment these athletes have dreamed of and to see it become a reality must be so satisfying and yet completely overwhelming all at once. That type of success does not come easily. It requires day after day, month after month, and year after year being faithful in tasks that at times may seem insignificant. Putting consistent effort forth each and every day however, has tremendous potential to compound itself into a powerful, positive force to be reckoned with. In the book The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy, he talks about the truth that there is no real secret to being successful. He shares that success just naturally comes when people repeat positive and productive habits over and over. It makes complete sense. If you want to lose weight, you must eat healthy and exercise consistently. Having one good day and expecting the scale to move is ridiculous. Being consistent is the key. It sounds simple, yet life sometimes gets in the way even with our best intentions. So how can we go for the gold in our everyday lives and see profound, lasting change? Here are 5 tips to help you get to the top of your podium.  Photo by cottonbro studio Determine your "why"Your why is the core motivation and/or people behind your reasons for wanting to better your life. You need to clearly define why you want to make changes and who it will affect the most. When times get tough, a strong why will keep you going. A friend of mine was building a home business and her goal was to eventually quit her corporate job. She would get up early and stay up late working her other job in between. She was exhausted, but laser focused on her goals. Her why kept her going. She wanted to be more present in her kids' lives. She wanted to be at the bus stop every day for her kids when they became school age and staying focused on that kept her going even through the hardest times. She did eventually quit her corporate job and her home business is absolutely thriving due to her having a clearly defined why that kept her motivated.  Photo by Andrea Piacquadio Envison your end goalIf your goal is to be 40 lbs thinner, envision yourself as such and imagine what that type of healthier life will provide you. If you wish to be more financially fit and are working towards that, picture yourself debt free and what that will look like for you and your family. If you are wishing to become pregnant, decorate the nursery and imagine rocking that precious baby in your loving arms. Create a dream board of all that you aspire to achieve. Put it out there and speak positively about what you hope to achieve. Visualization is a very power tool. Keep picturing the life you will have when you attain your goal, envision it and dream it into reality.  Photo by Marcos Paulo Prado on Unsplash Speak and think positivelyPhrase what you want to become as if you have already achieved it such as: "I am a healthy, fit calm and relaxed mom" or "I am a highly successful business woman with a large team under me." Speak in absolutes like "WHEN this happens not IF this happens. This shows belief in yourself and your abilities. Don't let negative thoughts or self doubt creep in. Be your best cheerleader, not your worst critic. By speaking positively and putting it "out there "with confidence, it is your way of being accountable and saying, "Mark my words everyone, I am making this happen in my life."  Photo by Susan G. Komen 3-Day on Unsplash Surround yourself with positive peopleThey say you become like the five people you hang around with the most. Choose those five people very carefully. Make sure they are upstanding people of substance who keep you moving towards your goals, not against them. Gravitate towards people who edify you and fill your cup so you feel doubly inspired to pursue your dreams when you are with them.  Photo by Andres Ayrton Get a success partnerFind someone who is on a similar journey as you, with the same goals and partner up with them. Maybe you both want to start a home business or lose weight or save money. Work on it together and check in with each other often to see how each other is progressing. Share honestly how things are going even if you are struggling. These people will help you stay accountable too as you each day get a little closer to your goals. Remember that God is the greatest success partner and he wants to see you become all you can be. Call on him for strength, patience, and wisdom. Striving for a better life is a continuous process. We should all be striving to better ourselves in many areas as no one is ever too old to learn new things and all of us are truly works in progress. Life can get pretty comfortable, but nothing ever grows in a comfort zone. We need to want better things for our lives. I know I want better for my life each and every day. Don't lose heart. I believe in you. Keep being faithful. If you do, you will see results. It is the compound effect in action. Envision it with me. Take a deep breath. Close your eyes and see it. I see your flag being raised and I can hear the national anthem being played in your honour. Can't you see it and hear it too? Until next time ~ Dana Proverbs 16:3 ~ Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. Little Lesson Learned: Gold medal lifestyles are created by being faithful in the small, positive things each and every day. Copyright: © 2024, littlelessonslearnedbydana 2nd edition, first edition, 2016 Go For the Gold For more information on the book referenced in this blog please see: Hardy, D. (2011). The compound effect. Vanguard Press.
 Photo by Logan Isbell on Unsplash “Don’t let the tall weeds cast a shadow on the beautiful flowers in your garden.” - Steve Maraboli, Life, The Truth, and Being Free The other day I went out to take on one of my most dreaded summer tasks: weeding. This is an activity I have always disliked as it is dirty, time consuming and very hard on my back. Do you feel sorry for me yet? Looking at the size of the overgrown weeds, I could not help but scold myself for not getting out there sooner. It is truly incredible how fast and resilient those nasty bad boys are. I honestly had weeded not long ago. Yet much to my dismay there was still this vast green forest of unwanted foliage staring at me, taunting me, up in my face needing my immediate attention. As I was feeling very sorry for myself, I started to think of life applications around weeds and weeding, and realized as much as I would like to think otherwise, we can actually learn a lot from these pesky plants. In our lives we need to do "weeding" on a regular basis. Taking a moral inventory of what should and should not be in our lives is extremely critical to our personal growth. When we get proactive and responsibly address these “weeds” we are putting ourselves in a much better position to become all that God has created us to be. Here are some “Weeds of Wisdom” to consider. "Weed of Wisdom #1" |
| |  Photo by Kampus Production |
As mentioned, you do not weed once and think your job is done. I truly wish it was that easy. We need to check in on our progress regularly in our areas targeted for growth to ensure we are on track.
Old habits can creep back slowly just like those troublesome weeds and before we notice it, they are a force to be reckoned with once again. You do not want to ever let that happen. Be self aware and honest with yourself to stick with your growth plan.
Old habits can creep back slowly just like those troublesome weeds and before we notice it, they are a force to be reckoned with once again. You do not want to ever let that happen. Be self aware and honest with yourself to stick with your growth plan.
"Weed of Wisdom #5"
Stay with the flowers.
Photo by Secret Garden
Don’t surround yourself with those who are continuing in the behaviours you are trying to avoid. If you are trying to become less critical, don’t hang out with critical people, or if you are attempting to overcome an addiction, don’t associate with people who are actively involved with what you are trying to avoid. This clearly makes no sense.
Likewise, if you are trying to stop drinking, don’t hang out in bars, or if you are trying to eat healthier, don’t frequent the junk food aisles of the grocery store. Some people or settings may need to be weeded out of your life permanently for you to become truly successful.
People who are winning the victory over their “weeds” and avoid relapse recognize their individual triggers and make a conscious effort to change their routines so they can make better and lasting progress in their recoveries.
Making changes can be very difficult. The weeds you need to address may have been a part of your life for years. They may even seem comfortable and familiar to you. They may in your opinion have been a coping mechanism for a period of time.
You may have the desire, but do not even know how or where to begin. You may lack the proper tools. Well, the good news is you are not alone and I am here to help.
Many people want and need to make changes. God’s words says, “He gives us beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning.” In other words, God specializes in giving us beautiful flowers in our lives instead of those ugly weeds.
You are so valuable, and you deserve to bloom in all the beauty that was intended for your life.
If those weeds are especially troublesome perhaps you could also benefit from professional help. Please be open to this option if your situation warrants it. Such options could include addictions counselors, pastoral care workers, marriage and family therapists and self-help groups such as AA or NA. This help can really assist you on your journey of positive change.
Your journey of positive change begins with the first step. Don’t be afraid to step out in faith. A whole new life awaits you!
So my friend, grab a hat. Go get out your gardening gloves and tools. Prepare to get a little dirty and off you go! Happy "weeding!"
Trust me, when you have the courage to do weeding, you will be amazed at what manifests in your life when all those nasty weeds are a thing of the past. It is a thing of beauty I tell ya!
Right there with you,
~ Dana
Hebrews 12: 1-2 Therefore since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.
Little Lesson Learned: Personal weeding is a necessary and healthy process so we can truly grow into the healthy, uninhibited people we were meant to be.
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2014, Weeds of Wisdom, littlelessonslearnedbydana
Likewise, if you are trying to stop drinking, don’t hang out in bars, or if you are trying to eat healthier, don’t frequent the junk food aisles of the grocery store. Some people or settings may need to be weeded out of your life permanently for you to become truly successful.
People who are winning the victory over their “weeds” and avoid relapse recognize their individual triggers and make a conscious effort to change their routines so they can make better and lasting progress in their recoveries.
Making changes can be very difficult. The weeds you need to address may have been a part of your life for years. They may even seem comfortable and familiar to you. They may in your opinion have been a coping mechanism for a period of time.
You may have the desire, but do not even know how or where to begin. You may lack the proper tools. Well, the good news is you are not alone and I am here to help.
Many people want and need to make changes. God’s words says, “He gives us beauty for ashes, and the oil of joy for mourning.” In other words, God specializes in giving us beautiful flowers in our lives instead of those ugly weeds.
You are so valuable, and you deserve to bloom in all the beauty that was intended for your life.
If those weeds are especially troublesome perhaps you could also benefit from professional help. Please be open to this option if your situation warrants it. Such options could include addictions counselors, pastoral care workers, marriage and family therapists and self-help groups such as AA or NA. This help can really assist you on your journey of positive change.
Your journey of positive change begins with the first step. Don’t be afraid to step out in faith. A whole new life awaits you!
So my friend, grab a hat. Go get out your gardening gloves and tools. Prepare to get a little dirty and off you go! Happy "weeding!"
Trust me, when you have the courage to do weeding, you will be amazed at what manifests in your life when all those nasty weeds are a thing of the past. It is a thing of beauty I tell ya!
Right there with you,
~ Dana
Hebrews 12: 1-2 Therefore since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.
Little Lesson Learned: Personal weeding is a necessary and healthy process so we can truly grow into the healthy, uninhibited people we were meant to be.
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2014, Weeds of Wisdom, littlelessonslearnedbydana
 | AuthorDana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, blogger, author, and speaker. She has a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children. When she is not working in the classroom or blogging, she enjoys drinking coffee, watching Netflix and reading great books. |
Tags: gardening, weeding, moral inventory, personal growth, getting honest, goal setting
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya
"To be honest with yourself is to gain knowledge into who you really are."
~ Unknown
I remember it so well. I certainly knew better, but I went for it anyways. The last day of school is always very emotional for me but silly me I just HAD to start the “goodbye/ you have meant so much to me” speech with my class. Well, I got about as far as “You have been an amazing class, and I am extremely proud of all of you.” After that the tears started flowing and I could barely continue, especially when I saw some students also crying.
Well, I did what I had to do then to get by and that was to put my prescription glasses up on my head, so I did not have to witness their sad expressions. This is a little trick I have learned to help me through some difficult and emotional times.
I first used this handy technique when I had to sing at my high school graduation. As it too was emotional for me, the fact that I could face a sea of blurred, expressionless faces gave me the help I needed to sing with gusto. Somehow the way I saw it is when you can’t really see it, you can endure it.
Well, I did finally get a hold of myself at school after sending out some emergency texts for prayer and we actually did have a nice last day despite the tears. I was grateful that the year had been so incredible that the emotion was there, as it was a testament to the good times we had had and all the great memories we shared.
~ Unknown
I remember it so well. I certainly knew better, but I went for it anyways. The last day of school is always very emotional for me but silly me I just HAD to start the “goodbye/ you have meant so much to me” speech with my class. Well, I got about as far as “You have been an amazing class, and I am extremely proud of all of you.” After that the tears started flowing and I could barely continue, especially when I saw some students also crying.
Well, I did what I had to do then to get by and that was to put my prescription glasses up on my head, so I did not have to witness their sad expressions. This is a little trick I have learned to help me through some difficult and emotional times.
I first used this handy technique when I had to sing at my high school graduation. As it too was emotional for me, the fact that I could face a sea of blurred, expressionless faces gave me the help I needed to sing with gusto. Somehow the way I saw it is when you can’t really see it, you can endure it.
Well, I did finally get a hold of myself at school after sending out some emergency texts for prayer and we actually did have a nice last day despite the tears. I was grateful that the year had been so incredible that the emotion was there, as it was a testament to the good times we had had and all the great memories we shared.
Sometimes seeing things clearly can be too painful. Although the blurred vision technique worked for me that day, in life we need to face our issues clearly to make true progress. This is often not as easy as it sounds.
When I would do substance abuse counselling with my clients, we talked a lot about denial when it comes to our problems. Denial can be broken down to “Don’t– Even - Notice - I – Am – Lying.” Sometimes we become too comfortable with looking the other way pretending issues don’t exist in our lives. That can only continue for so long without consequences as eventually important issues need to be addressed.
I would often see this with alcoholic clients who had convinced themselves that becoming social drinkers was their goal. The thought of giving alcohol up altogether was just too painful for them, so only drinking "socially" was a nice compromise, or so they thought. A recipe for disaster is more like it, but they must realize that on their own to overcome it.
When I would do substance abuse counselling with my clients, we talked a lot about denial when it comes to our problems. Denial can be broken down to “Don’t– Even - Notice - I – Am – Lying.” Sometimes we become too comfortable with looking the other way pretending issues don’t exist in our lives. That can only continue for so long without consequences as eventually important issues need to be addressed.
I would often see this with alcoholic clients who had convinced themselves that becoming social drinkers was their goal. The thought of giving alcohol up altogether was just too painful for them, so only drinking "socially" was a nice compromise, or so they thought. A recipe for disaster is more like it, but they must realize that on their own to overcome it.
Photo by Alexas Fotos
Every day is a new day. A new beginning waits for us each day. What do your eyes see as your strengths and your struggles? We all have them.
What can you start today to activate change in your life and initiate positive steps? For each one of us it is different.
Well the summer is upon me, and I can see clearly the school year I have left behind. It is good to do some honest reflection with no blurred vision.
I am both ready for a change and a rest, yet grateful for all the positive things that have taken place. Feel free to email me ([email protected]) about what you are working on. I would love to pray with you or cheer you on to victory! Remember you can't change what you don't acknowledge.
~ Until next time,
Dana
Romans 12: 1-2 (The Message Bible) So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Little Lesson Learned: Looking closely at a situation that needs changing can be scary, but it is the first step to positive change.
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2015, Blurred Vision littlelessonslearnedbydana
What can you start today to activate change in your life and initiate positive steps? For each one of us it is different.
Well the summer is upon me, and I can see clearly the school year I have left behind. It is good to do some honest reflection with no blurred vision.
I am both ready for a change and a rest, yet grateful for all the positive things that have taken place. Feel free to email me ([email protected]) about what you are working on. I would love to pray with you or cheer you on to victory! Remember you can't change what you don't acknowledge.
~ Until next time,
Dana
Romans 12: 1-2 (The Message Bible) So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
Little Lesson Learned: Looking closely at a situation that needs changing can be scary, but it is the first step to positive change.
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2015, Blurred Vision littlelessonslearnedbydana
Tags: elementary teaching, denial, honesty, making changes, setting goals |
AuthorDana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, blogger, author, and speaker. She has a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children. When she is not working in the classroom or blogging, she enjoys drinking coffee, watching Netflix and reading great books. |
Photo by Nathan Lemon on Unsplash
“Yesterday is history. Tomorrow’s a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it is called the present." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt.
There are some things in life we all love to do and then there are those tasks that require much more effort. You know those tasks that you try to ignore as long as possible, as you simply do not have the time or energy for them?
We all have some of THOSE TASKS that is certain. The tidying of my clothes closet was one of them. I had been avoiding organizing it for months, as let’s face it, the tidying up of a cluttered closet, can be a very daunting task. Just looking at it drained my energy, yet how liberating it felt to put it in order and send a few bags of clothes off to the local thrift store. It was a long and tedious task, but such a great feeling when it was finally done.
As a teacher early in my career, I used to have a very messy, cluttered desk. I could never find anything and I felt like I was a terrible example to the students. I have since changed my ways and now pride myself in keeping a very orderly desktop. It is my belief that it is not fair to get after kids to tidy their desks, if mine is an absolute disaster, so I am glad I have improved in this area.
It is quite humorous when we do desk cleanouts in my classroom I must say. I do them on a regular basis to help keep the students organized and it is funny because of what they find! The one who never has a pencil suddenly has six, or the missing notebook that couldn’t be found anywhere suddenly makes an appearance, or the permission form that they swear they never got, is there in all its glory. Certain kids dread this task more than others because their desks are more untidy, yet all of them have such grins of satisfaction on their faces when their desks are tidy. It is priceless to witness as they are so proud to show me their neat and tidy work space, and you can tell they “get it,” that the tidy desk option is so much more appealing than the messy one!
We all have some of THOSE TASKS that is certain. The tidying of my clothes closet was one of them. I had been avoiding organizing it for months, as let’s face it, the tidying up of a cluttered closet, can be a very daunting task. Just looking at it drained my energy, yet how liberating it felt to put it in order and send a few bags of clothes off to the local thrift store. It was a long and tedious task, but such a great feeling when it was finally done.
As a teacher early in my career, I used to have a very messy, cluttered desk. I could never find anything and I felt like I was a terrible example to the students. I have since changed my ways and now pride myself in keeping a very orderly desktop. It is my belief that it is not fair to get after kids to tidy their desks, if mine is an absolute disaster, so I am glad I have improved in this area.
It is quite humorous when we do desk cleanouts in my classroom I must say. I do them on a regular basis to help keep the students organized and it is funny because of what they find! The one who never has a pencil suddenly has six, or the missing notebook that couldn’t be found anywhere suddenly makes an appearance, or the permission form that they swear they never got, is there in all its glory. Certain kids dread this task more than others because their desks are more untidy, yet all of them have such grins of satisfaction on their faces when their desks are tidy. It is priceless to witness as they are so proud to show me their neat and tidy work space, and you can tell they “get it,” that the tidy desk option is so much more appealing than the messy one!
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
I have worked with so many people in the past in my social work career who had a “when I - then I " mentality. This is explained with examples such as “when I find more time, I will start exercising,” or “when my life gets a little less stressful, I will try to make time for positive changes.” The problem is that if you wait for the perfect opportunity, it will never come.
An example of this is a young mom who repeatedly kept telling me that she “really wanted to get her family out to church,” but she had every excuse under the sun. “It is our only family day, and the kids are too young for the service and we don’t have proper church clothes…” You know how it goes and I did totally understand her concerns. I explained to her however, that we had a program for every age group and that church attire is more casual these days. No matter what I said though, she just explained that when they were older, she would bring them.
Well I bet you can guess what happened? Sadly that day has never come and her kids have really gone through some incredibly hard times. Her and her husband are great people and parents, but she shared with me later in life that she had so many regrets in this area. She confided that she wished she would have committed to regular church attendance when the kids were younger, as she knew it would have greatly benefited them and then they would be in the faithful routine of coming.
An example of this is a young mom who repeatedly kept telling me that she “really wanted to get her family out to church,” but she had every excuse under the sun. “It is our only family day, and the kids are too young for the service and we don’t have proper church clothes…” You know how it goes and I did totally understand her concerns. I explained to her however, that we had a program for every age group and that church attire is more casual these days. No matter what I said though, she just explained that when they were older, she would bring them.
Well I bet you can guess what happened? Sadly that day has never come and her kids have really gone through some incredibly hard times. Her and her husband are great people and parents, but she shared with me later in life that she had so many regrets in this area. She confided that she wished she would have committed to regular church attendance when the kids were younger, as she knew it would have greatly benefited them and then they would be in the faithful routine of coming.
Photo by Juan Pablo Serrano A
Sometimes hindsight is 20/20 as they say, yet it is never too late to start something new. My mom always wanted to learn to play piano, but never learned as a child. She took piano lessons at age 40 and was so thrilled to be able to sit down at the piano and play church hymns and her favourite songs as she had always imagined. I always respected her so much for this. She decided one day that she was not going to put it off another day, but she was going to learn to play piano NOW.
Procrastination is a problem for many people. The bigger issue is as we choose to put off things for “another” day, the dreaded tasks just pile up and before we know it, what was once a molehill, is now a mountain. In addition, the “another” day never seems to present itself. This then leaves us feeling more discouraged, so it becomes a vicious circle. Many addictions are like that and what was once a little habit, now holds people captive without them realizing. Change is a process and it begins with little steps. Hopes, dreams, recovery steps, and new pursuits can become reality when we decide not to embrace the “when I - then I,” mantra but rather the anthem of "why not today? "
Procrastination is a problem for many people. The bigger issue is as we choose to put off things for “another” day, the dreaded tasks just pile up and before we know it, what was once a molehill, is now a mountain. In addition, the “another” day never seems to present itself. This then leaves us feeling more discouraged, so it becomes a vicious circle. Many addictions are like that and what was once a little habit, now holds people captive without them realizing. Change is a process and it begins with little steps. Hopes, dreams, recovery steps, and new pursuits can become reality when we decide not to embrace the “when I - then I,” mantra but rather the anthem of "why not today? "
What’s been on the back burner in your life? Could it be Bible reading, exercising, eating better, more time for self care, looking for a good church, or spending more time with friends? There is no time like the present to start looking at it again. The Bible says “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. The cool thing is when we decide to make positive changes in our lives not only is God our greatest cheerleader, but he also promises to be right beside us giving us increased strength to do so.
I have had times where I have made sincere commitments to make positive change in some area of my life and then it seems life steps in and derails me. Despite my best intentions, I can feel like I am on the hamster wheel, going nowhere fast. I have made a commitment to exercise more regularly, eat better and read my Bible more often. I am happy to say I am doing much better in my eating and Bible reading, but my exercising definitely needs to improve.
Reflecting on that however, I have not been feeling well, but have still gone for walks and even tried pickle ball this week with my friends for the first time. That is a huge WIN in my books. Change takes time. I am choosing to be patient with myself, and you should too.
The bottom line is we all can have some big, legit reasons or excuses to put us off track, but looking at the big picture is key. I have learned that if today was not the best than all is not lost, as I know I can turn it around tomorrow or another day.
All too often we can let one bad day, spiral out of control and take us away from our goals. Don’t allow that to happen as every morning, with every sunrise, we get a fresh, new start. I would love to hear what area of your life you are working on right now in the comments.
It is very exciting to think of where you can end up when you make a decision that today is the day that I begin putting positive steps into action in my life.
Don’t let seeds of doubt or discouragement creep in. You can do it! Why not today? Today feels like a great day for positive change don’t you agree? I am cheering for you all the way.
Until next time,
~ Dana
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Little Lesson Learned: Don’t put off for tomorrow what you could do today. There is no better time than the present.
One of my favourite groups, Rascal Flatts who I had the pleasure of seeing in concert, has a perfect song to encourage us in our positive changes called "Feels Like Today." Enjoy!
I have had times where I have made sincere commitments to make positive change in some area of my life and then it seems life steps in and derails me. Despite my best intentions, I can feel like I am on the hamster wheel, going nowhere fast. I have made a commitment to exercise more regularly, eat better and read my Bible more often. I am happy to say I am doing much better in my eating and Bible reading, but my exercising definitely needs to improve.
Reflecting on that however, I have not been feeling well, but have still gone for walks and even tried pickle ball this week with my friends for the first time. That is a huge WIN in my books. Change takes time. I am choosing to be patient with myself, and you should too.
The bottom line is we all can have some big, legit reasons or excuses to put us off track, but looking at the big picture is key. I have learned that if today was not the best than all is not lost, as I know I can turn it around tomorrow or another day.
All too often we can let one bad day, spiral out of control and take us away from our goals. Don’t allow that to happen as every morning, with every sunrise, we get a fresh, new start. I would love to hear what area of your life you are working on right now in the comments.
It is very exciting to think of where you can end up when you make a decision that today is the day that I begin putting positive steps into action in my life.
Don’t let seeds of doubt or discouragement creep in. You can do it! Why not today? Today feels like a great day for positive change don’t you agree? I am cheering for you all the way.
Until next time,
~ Dana
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Little Lesson Learned: Don’t put off for tomorrow what you could do today. There is no better time than the present.
One of my favourite groups, Rascal Flatts who I had the pleasure of seeing in concert, has a perfect song to encourage us in our positive changes called "Feels Like Today." Enjoy!
Tags: procrastination, goal setting, self improvement, start today, growth mindset
 | AuthorDana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, social worker, blogger, author, motivational speaker and recording artist. She has a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children. When she is not working in the classroom or blogging, she enjoys drinking coffee, watching Netflix and reading great books.  Copyright: © 2024 littlelessonslearnedbydana, revised edition, First edition, © 2014 entitled: Why Not Today? (Dana Romualdi) Dana Romualdi, the copyright holder reserves all rights to the content on the blog and website Little Lessons Learned by Dana, including the right to reproduce, distribute, and display the content. No content or photographs may be reproduced or modified. Blogs may be shared on social media platforms in their entirety only with full credit given to the owner. Any photographs used by other photographers are used with permission and are also protected. All Rights Reserved. |
Photo by jasmin chew
“I'm gonna run. No, I'm gonna fly. I'm gonna know what it means to live and not just be alive.” (Say I Won’t, Mercy Me)
The birds are out in full force this beautiful summer. I get a large variety of them in my backyard, and they are quite interesting to observe, I must say. On more than one occasion, though, I have noticed something quite peculiar when it comes to our feathered friends.
Several times when I have been out driving, I have seen many different types of birds walking leisurely across the road. As they act like they own the road and are in no hurry, their cavalier behaviour repeatedly causes me great stress.
As I get closer and closer, my panicked internal dialogue starts.
Am I going to hit them?
Will they actually use the wings they have so obviously been blessed with?
Thankfully, in every case so far right at the very last minute, they choose to flap their wings and get the heck out of there! I don’t get it. I am always left thinking… Why would they walk when they can fly? Why would they put themselves in harm’s way when they can so easily soar above danger?
I have not quite figured that one out yet, but have often thought how many people, me included, can at times be very similar to these silly birds.
Why do we drag our feet through life when we were destined to soar? Life is meant to be lived well. It was never meant to be something we just tolerate or do well when we are ready.
Years ago, I recall asking my grandfather how some of his friends were doing and he stated, “Not well. They just exist.” It broke my heart because I thought to myself - Excuse me??? Who wants to just exist?” Not me! Why would or should we ever settle for that?
Several times when I have been out driving, I have seen many different types of birds walking leisurely across the road. As they act like they own the road and are in no hurry, their cavalier behaviour repeatedly causes me great stress.
As I get closer and closer, my panicked internal dialogue starts.
Am I going to hit them?
Will they actually use the wings they have so obviously been blessed with?
Thankfully, in every case so far right at the very last minute, they choose to flap their wings and get the heck out of there! I don’t get it. I am always left thinking… Why would they walk when they can fly? Why would they put themselves in harm’s way when they can so easily soar above danger?
I have not quite figured that one out yet, but have often thought how many people, me included, can at times be very similar to these silly birds.
Why do we drag our feet through life when we were destined to soar? Life is meant to be lived well. It was never meant to be something we just tolerate or do well when we are ready.
Years ago, I recall asking my grandfather how some of his friends were doing and he stated, “Not well. They just exist.” It broke my heart because I thought to myself - Excuse me??? Who wants to just exist?” Not me! Why would or should we ever settle for that?
I love the show America’s Got Talent. There was one audition I will never forget. Her name was Jane Maeczewski and when performing she goes by the stage name Nightbirde. As she shared her story, she disclosed that she was battling cancer and currently had a 2% chance of survival.
Her attitude was truly remarkable incredible as she stated, “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.” She sang an original song entitled It’s OK. Realistically, she is clearly not OK, yet she sang like an angel. Her emotional performance gave me goosebumps and earned her the golden buzzer from Simon Cowell.
What an example of someone who chose to fly despite terrible hardship. Even her stage name, Nightbirde exemplified her character of a bird who still sings even in the darkest time. We can learn so much from her and her approach to life. Her health struggles resulted in her having to step away from the AGT competition and sadly she did pass away. Before her passing she never lost hope sharing to her devoted fans “I am planning my future, not my legacy.” How inspiring she was and a great example of someone who has chosen to get the most out of life, whatever it offered her.
We have all been blessed with unique abilities and talents. Sharing them with the world is our gift and our responsibility. Being all we can be in life, cultivating our gifts and celebrating that should be our goal.
I have met people time and time again who are settling in life, going through the motions each day whether it be in their relationships, careers, goals, or other life circumstances. It is heartbreaking when they deserve better but as they have been knocked down, they see their wings as broken. They accept life “as-is” believing they are truly not worthy of more.
We only get one chance at this life, and we need to give it our best.
You are uniquely you. There is no one else exactly like you. Isn’t that an incredible thought? The world needs you, and all you can offer. Realizing that and believing you have much to offer is key.
Her attitude was truly remarkable incredible as she stated, “You can’t wait until life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.” She sang an original song entitled It’s OK. Realistically, she is clearly not OK, yet she sang like an angel. Her emotional performance gave me goosebumps and earned her the golden buzzer from Simon Cowell.
What an example of someone who chose to fly despite terrible hardship. Even her stage name, Nightbirde exemplified her character of a bird who still sings even in the darkest time. We can learn so much from her and her approach to life. Her health struggles resulted in her having to step away from the AGT competition and sadly she did pass away. Before her passing she never lost hope sharing to her devoted fans “I am planning my future, not my legacy.” How inspiring she was and a great example of someone who has chosen to get the most out of life, whatever it offered her.
We have all been blessed with unique abilities and talents. Sharing them with the world is our gift and our responsibility. Being all we can be in life, cultivating our gifts and celebrating that should be our goal.
I have met people time and time again who are settling in life, going through the motions each day whether it be in their relationships, careers, goals, or other life circumstances. It is heartbreaking when they deserve better but as they have been knocked down, they see their wings as broken. They accept life “as-is” believing they are truly not worthy of more.
We only get one chance at this life, and we need to give it our best.
You are uniquely you. There is no one else exactly like you. Isn’t that an incredible thought? The world needs you, and all you can offer. Realizing that and believing you have much to offer is key.
Pinpointing your passions is a great place to start. It gets you excited and out of a rut you may find yourself in from time to time. Finding out what your talents and giftings are is essential so you can be all that you can be.
Maybe you are artistic, athletic, great at computers and technology, an amazing cook, fantastic with kids, a powerful speaker or incredible with decorating and home décor. There are so many areas to consider.
Do some soul searching and find out what your passion is and go after it with all you have got. Maybe it will take going back to school, a sacrifice of some sort or taking a step back to move forward, but I encourage you to believe in yourself and go for it.
Several years ago, I quit a great job that I loved to go to teacher’s college. It was scary to take a risk, and have our family live off one salary with no job guarantee on the other side.
Despite that risk, I felt excitement and peace all at the same time. I was stepping into my calling. I truly believed that, and I never looked back.
I was made to fly, not walk and I was spreading my wings.
Maybe you are artistic, athletic, great at computers and technology, an amazing cook, fantastic with kids, a powerful speaker or incredible with decorating and home décor. There are so many areas to consider.
Do some soul searching and find out what your passion is and go after it with all you have got. Maybe it will take going back to school, a sacrifice of some sort or taking a step back to move forward, but I encourage you to believe in yourself and go for it.
Several years ago, I quit a great job that I loved to go to teacher’s college. It was scary to take a risk, and have our family live off one salary with no job guarantee on the other side.
Despite that risk, I felt excitement and peace all at the same time. I was stepping into my calling. I truly believed that, and I never looked back.
I was made to fly, not walk and I was spreading my wings.
My classroom, Room 21! So many great memories here.
Change can be very scary. We all have doubts and fears. That is so normal.
Is there an area of your life where you feel you are meant for more? That is a question only you can answer. I just want you to feel that you are worthy of truly living your best life in all aspects.
Your wings are ready and waiting for you to use them.
The Bible says in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full!” This is my desire for you.
Don’t be like the bird who was designed for so much more, but chose to walk through life oblivious of the wings at his side. What a tragedy!
Keep moving forward. Don’t let this world or discouragement take the wind out of your sails. Every day is a fresh start and a new chance.
Spread those wings and fly my friend and I’ll be the proud one on the ground cheering you on.
Until next time,
~ Dana
Isaiah 40:31: Those whose hope is in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.
Little Lesson Learned: Flying through life gives you such a better view. Won’t you give it a try?
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2021 littlelessonslearnedbydana
(Dana Romualdi)
Is there an area of your life where you feel you are meant for more? That is a question only you can answer. I just want you to feel that you are worthy of truly living your best life in all aspects.
Your wings are ready and waiting for you to use them.
The Bible says in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full!” This is my desire for you.
Don’t be like the bird who was designed for so much more, but chose to walk through life oblivious of the wings at his side. What a tragedy!
Keep moving forward. Don’t let this world or discouragement take the wind out of your sails. Every day is a fresh start and a new chance.
Spread those wings and fly my friend and I’ll be the proud one on the ground cheering you on.
Until next time,
~ Dana
Isaiah 40:31: Those whose hope is in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.
Little Lesson Learned: Flying through life gives you such a better view. Won’t you give it a try?
© 2024, 2nd edition, 1st edition, 2021 littlelessonslearnedbydana
(Dana Romualdi)
 | Author.Dana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, blogger, author, and speaker. She has a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children. When she is not working in the classroom or blogging, she enjoys drinking coffee, watching Netflix and reading great books. |
Tags: birds, flying, spread your wings, personal growth, talents, meant for more
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