Anything Can Happen

This last year of independent living has made me feel pretty self-confident and given me some awesome lessons in self-motivation.  I am a passionate believer in the power of positive thinking and try to live with a healthy dose of optimism, but for moments when I need a little extra kick, I know the person I can count on the most is my mama.

Last night, we were texting about my weekend plans, and it somehow led to her sending me an essay of a text that included suggestions on volunteering in San Francisco and how I should not rule out running for mayor of SF down the line.  See what I mean?  I tend to get so focused on work and bills and soaking in every single moment of my life (being present in the present), but a healthy dose of perspective and forward-looking thought can never hurt a gal. 

Via.

Via.

Via.

PS: I have no political ambitions.  Big dreams, yes, but not of the political variety.  Just her way of reminding me to think big.

PPS: Who is your go-to life cheerleader?  Isn't it fun to cheer your friends and family on too?

.005 Percent

I picked up a copy of Shania Twains autobiography From This Moment On last week, and ended up reading the whole book this weekend.   I'm a sucker for a good self-narrated non-fiction novel, and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this one.  I knew a bit about her background after writing a paper in college on 90's female country artists and feminism (boy did I love that country music class!), and was especially inspired by her love for her family and her intense desire to succeed.

She had such friendly and conversational tone throughout the book, even as she desribed some of the more challenging aspects of her life.  I made note of a particular statistic as I was reading; according to the source, only .005 percent of folks find success in the music industry.  No matter what we want to do with our life, whether it's go to school, raise a family, find our dream job, or anything really, there are bound to be challenges and obstacles that get in our way.  And I think it is in dealing with these circumstances, finding joy in the ordinary, and trying to follow our passions that end up making life extraordincary.

If you are a country music fan, or just looking for an easy, encouraging read, I recommend picking this up!

Via.

Here are a few other finds motivating me this Monday:

Via.

Via.

Via.

Via.