Leap and the net will appear

What's interesting is that I just recently learned this lesson, after taking my leap of faith.  When I first decided to move and basically turn my life right side up I didn't have much support from my loved ones.  Not to say they were completely against the idea but they were fearful for me.  I made the decision to move somewhere I had never lived before and in a place with no family, or security (I didn't have a job lined up).  I continued on with my decision against all odds.  Then once I actually made the move I had more support and love than I could ever have imagined.  The net appeared for me in so many unexpected ways.

Everyone tells me I'm so brave.  I did something that they could never do.  It's funny because I don't feel brave at all.  I was so hungry for change and did the most drastic thing I could think of at the time.  I made the decision to better myself and my life; I thought of it as the right thing to do. Our lives are ruled by the choices we make and we make them with the intention of being right.  I made the decision to move because I felt it was the right thing to do for me, not because it was the "brave" thing to do.  And don't think I just got up one morning and moved the next, I had a plan. My plan took 3 months to blossom.  

First step: I made the decision and set the intention.  I said "I am moving to San Diego" rather than "I hope (or wish) to move".

Second step:  I believed it was possible.  Right when I said it, I felt my heart leap for joy.  The decision was not made from a place of desperation or fear.

Third step:  I surrendered the "how".  I prayed on my desire and then let the magic happen.  I remained open to possibilities.  Once you believe something is possible, keep your mind and heart open to whatever presents itself next.  

Fourth step:  I kept myself open to receive.  I learned that we get the things we want (and need) in unexpected forms.  We receive the very best.  The path to the desire is not linear and it's also not clear to us, so I kept "my eyes peeled" to the things that presented themselves to me.  For example, right after setting the intention to move I was presented with the opportunity to work for a temp job.  I took it because I knew it would help fund my desire.  The opportunities which present themselves right away are important.

Fifth step: My daily routine involved planning to receive my desire.  My desire was to move to San Diego so I planned my move.  I did my research on housing, transportation, activities; I planned how my life would be once I moved.  I also made my desire present.  I wrote "San Diego" on the top of each month on my calendar so that every day marked off was one day closer to receiving it.

Sixth step: Make the desire greater than your fear.  This is a tough one because fear is a part of us. The fear inside will always be present but what helped me quiet it was to visualize my "new life" in San Diego.  Also I really avoided negative people and anyone who did not support my dream.  I did not like to talk about all the things that could go wrong because I can't control every single thing that happens (or doesn't happen) to me, so why focus on that?  I'd rather focus on what I can control.  Plus to be honest, everything was flowing nicely once I made my choice so much so that I figured the Universe was on my side to make it happen.  I felt right about it and so the right things were popping up in my life.  

When people are throwing shade your way, walk in the sun. Tweet this!

Seventh step: What's the worst that can happen?  I don't know if this will work for everyone, but I am a pretty cautious person and can be very paranoid at times.  Because my desire to move was greater than my fear, I did not let fear stop me, but trust me it was present.  One of the ways I was able to face my fear was by identifying what the worst case scenarios were.  In essence, it helped me to identify some of my worst fears tied to this decision.  I didn't create back-up plans to prepare for the worst case scenarios because I wanted to attach positive vibes to my choice.  I chose not to focus on the fear, rather just observe it.  I discuss a little bit about how I face my fears in a previous post.  I'll share with you my greatest fear attached to moving was that it wouldn't work out and I would have to go back home to live with my parents.  Doesn't sound so bad, right?  It's still an echo in my mind I can't get rid of, but I no longer fight it.  It is what it is.  I'm alive, healthy, have tons of people who love and support me, and that's what's truly important.  Which brings me to...

Eighth step: Gratitude! I thank God for placing "The Secret" in my life back in 2010.  This was one of the books that changed my life and the way I live it.  I am grateful every day.  I like to state out loud what I am thankful for every day.  I like to do this as part of my morning ritual, while getting ready for work, to start my day off right.  I think keeping tabs of what you're grateful for opens so many doors.  I think gratitude paves the way for blessings.

I can't tell you what happens after you take your leap of faith because there is no "cookie-cutter" result; everyone's journey is different. What I can say is that I have no regrets.  I would rather do something and determine whether it was the right choice or not for me, from my action, than live regretting my inaction.  I faced a lot of obstacles in the beginning.  I kept myself motivated by learning, meditating, writing, blogging, and taking comfort in the support of my loved ones.  I kept my desire to thrive in San Diego present.   I've shared with you in other posts some of the resources I used to guide me on my path.

I really hope this post can help you take more leaps!  I would love it if you can comment below what leap (or leaps) you would love to take? Or if you've already taken a leap of faith, how did you do it?

By the way, have you checked out my FREE E-BOOK? It's called "Greens on the Side" and will help you get started with your weight loss goals in just 5 easy steps.  Check it out!

A simple act of KINDNESS goes a long way

Today I am inspired by the note I received from the Universe:

You just never know, Katherine, who in the crowd, standing beside you in line or passing you in the street, might be raised in spirit, or even lifted from despair, by the kindness in your glance or the comfort of your smile.

I enjoy reading my daily notes from The Universe, which you can receive as well by signing up for free on TUT.  Some notes make more sense to me than others, but all messages are welcome.  This note reminded me of a time when I was "down in the dumps".

When I first moved to San Diego (last year) my eyes were filled with sunshine and my heart with hope.  I had little bouts of loneliness and doubt, but kept on going.  The hardest period for me here was from March to the beginning of May.  I was having a hard time finding a job, the funds were running low, and I didn't have a stable home.  I was living in fear and despair.  I cried almost every day, uncertain of whether or not I would make it out here.  One day I felt like I had hit rock bottom.  I was in a constant state of anxiety and went for a walk to clear my head.  I sat outside of a coffee shop and called one of my best friends to vent.  I was sobbing loudly and I guess some people walking by noticed, but I didn't notice them.  A few minutes into my crying session, this lovely young woman quickly stopped in front of me and gave me flowers, then walked away.  I only caught a brief glimpse of her; smiling back at me as she walked away.  At that point I felt like she was an Angel sent to comfort me.

A complete stranger turned things around for me. In that instant when she gave me the flowers, I started crying tears of joy. I was so astonished by this small gift and small act of kindness, which for me was like she had given me a million dollars. From then on I reminded myself of my mission, and that day when someone I didn't know or had even seen before made me feel like the most special being on Earth.

Sometimes I get caught up with wanting to do BIG things for the people I love, to show them how much I care.  Buying them big gifts, giving them money; I need something TANGIBLE to give to them.  I think it's so easy for all of us to get caught up with showing our love through objects.  Sometimes all it takes is to check up on someone and ask "How are you doing?  I miss you".  And what about showing love to people we don't know?  I don't know what motivated my Earth Angel to give me flowers that day, but I'll ever forget the gesture.  What if all it takes is a smile?  A concerned glanced? I think in order to truly be present and live in the moment we have to be aware of our surroundings and the people in it.  We have to truly treat people how we want to be treated in order to create miracle moments in their lives, which can be achieved through something as simple as daisies.

Please share in the comments below any miracle moments you may have caused for someone, or if you've ever had a similar experience?

By the way, have you checked out my FREE E-BOOK? It's called "Greens on the Side" and will help you get started with your weight loss goals in just 5 easy steps.  Check it out!

One year ago today...

Happy December all!  December 1st marked my 1 YEAR anniversary here in San Diego.  One year ago today I left everything I knew behind to start something new.  I’m actually in shock.  I still can’t believe I did it; I can’t believe I moved and have been here for a year already.  I thank God every day for this opportunity and for the unconditional support of my family and friends, whose love and comfort kept me going when times were rough.  I made it!

In one of my previous posts I share with you how I made the decision to move and how I followed my dream.

With 2014 right around the corner, I have a few goals I want to accomplish before the start of the new year.  How will you end 2013?  How will you feel looking back?

By the way, have you checked out my FREE E-BOOK? It's called "Greens on the Side" and will help you get started with your weight loss goals in just 5 easy steps.  Check it out!

Your Wish is my Command

Ok, so right now everything is coming together.  In my previous post I discussed with you my FML moments and how I was having a negatively charged week.  After self-reflection I realized my trigger was work/money related.  Here is a snippet of that post:

"For me this week was all about being in a negative space related to my career path and finances. I still feel insecure about my financial situation and my job isn't my "dream job". Don't get me wrong, a job is a job and it can help in may ways. I'm grateful for the opportunity and all of the blessings that have come along with it. But I know deep inside that I'm meant to be my own boss. I don't know what that looks like exactly, but I know a job will keep me satisfied for only so long. A job to me is a snack; it satisfies you temporarily but you can only snack for so long. You need a real meal. A job does not feed my soul, but again I'm grateful for having one and take it as a lesson". - See more at: http://fatfabfit.blogspot.com/#sthash.WlOrL5QW.dpuf

So last week was all about feeling the feelings and letting it ride out.  This week is all about action for me.  I decided to convert that negative energy into productivity.  Instead of drowning out the noise with TV, movies, reading, any distraction, I chose instead to deal with my issues and emotions head on.  I started by simply tuning in to some meditation music on Pandora, lighting a white candle for peace and clarity, lighting some incense, and taking deep, cleansing breaths.  I then made a list of things to do, related to my issues with money/career.  The first was visualization; I set aside a few minutes to close my eyes and visualize myself living the way I want.  I chose to focus on my ideal financial situation and what that looked like, how that felt. Afterwards I recorded a video diary entry (I usually either write or record) on everything I felt to kind of release that energy.  I then came up with some other activities for the week, such as refreshing my vision board and create a virtual vision board on my desktop, so I can view it from there as well.

I started with this process on Monday, first by starting my day with some meditation.  What I did was download some calm, healing, meditation music and listened to it on my way to work and then on my way home.  It helps a lot to just listen and then close your eyes.  Eventually I feel myself drifting away, but not in a sleepy way.  I feel like I'm connecting to my higher self.  Just for your information, I'll be posting something soon on how I first started meditating and the people/healers I follow to guide me, so stay tuned!

Well let me just tell you that the magic started to happen already. At first it started Monday morning, while I was calm I asked/wished for a calm day at work.  It turned out my supervisor was out for the day! It was so relaxing not having to deal with the pressure/demands of my supervisor. Yesterday she told me that they would have to end my temp assignment earlier than expected.  At first, for about 10 seconds, I felt a little bit of fear and doubt.  For those 10 seconds I let it take over; what if I don't have enough?  What if I can't find another job?  How will I pay my bills? Thank goodness it only lasted that long.  I reminded myself that I am taken care of.  I reminded myself of my wish and desire to be my own boss, of the action steps that I took on Monday to work towards my vision.  My desires are manifesting!  Think about it, how can I be my own boss if I work for someone else?  This is the Universe/God's gentle nudge in the right direction.  I just know this is the right move for me.

I then received an email from my good friend Laura Yamin, who sent me some feedback received on her site.  She featured an interview of me on her page (you can view it HERE) and reading the comments and even going back to some of the things I mentioned about my journey helped reignite my passion for working towards achieving my dreams.  Here's a snippet of that interview:

"The best piece of advice I can offer you is to keep the desire bigger than anything else. Let your desire drown out all fear and negativity, not only from within but also from your friends/family/loved ones who are scared for you. Keep the desire alive and present; let it be with you always".

From this moment on, every time I feel fear and doubt creep in I'll remember that my desire is greater than my fear.  I'll continue to feel and believe that I am supported, and all of my desires are manifesting.

By the way, have you checked out my FREE E-BOOK? It's called "Greens on the Side" and will help you get started with your weight loss goals in just 5 easy steps.  Check it out!

What is Life? FML, Life Sucks ARGHH!

I ask myself and God A LOT about my purpose.  What am I meant to do?  Who am I meant to be?  I just found myself overwhelmed this week with worry and doubt; am I on the right path? Why do I feel so lost?

I am slowly feeling myself losing control.  Thankfully throughout my journey I've learned to just accept my feelings and listen to my inner self.  If my inner self wants to have a tantrum or existential crisis, then so be it.  I decided not to fight with these feelings, it just makes things worse. While yes, I do like to look at the bright side and be grateful, and all that jazz, I do believe that being in the "dark" is good sometimes.  I think being in a negative space kind of takes you out of control and out of your routine, to force you into assessing what is working/not working.  I think allowing yourself some time in the darkness can give you some valuable perspective.  When I'm feeling this way I like to ask myself WHY I'm feeling these emotions and WHAT has triggered them.

For me this week was all about being in a negative space related to my career path and finances.  I still feel insecure about my financial situation and my job isn't my "dream job".  Don't get me wrong, a job is a job and it can help in may ways.  I'm grateful for the opportunity and all of the blessings that have come along with it.  But I know deep inside that I'm meant to be my own boss. I don't know what that looks like exactly, but I know a job will keep me satisfied for only so long. A job to me is a snack; it satisfies you temporarily but you can only snack for so long.  You need a real meal.  A job does not feed my soul, but again I'm grateful for having one and take it as a lesson.  

My "trigger" into this negative head/heart space has to do with the fact that the work I'm doing just doesn't feel meaningful.  It definitely doesn't feel spiritually nourishing or like it's what I'm meant to be doing.  I also don't feel challenged in the sense of evolving.  I feel stuck and afraid of going back to being broke, like I was last year.  I'm trapped by fear and doubt.  But this fear and negativity has forced me out of being comfortable with a job.  It's forced me to look within myself towards my passions; to work towards breaking free from the check-to-check rut.  One of my passions is writing.  I'll share with you that while I love to write, I have such a hurdle to overcome; one that I placed on myself.  I take it day by day.  I decided to commit to entering a short story contest. Whether I win or not, at least I am putting myself out there, and who knows what'll come next?

I know I'll overcome but for now I accept where I am and continue to stay open to wherever the Universe wants to take me.  I ask you to challenge yourself.  If you're feeling bad/sad/mad at the world, at yourself, or someone else, assess the WHY you're feeling that way and WHAT triggered the emotions.  The more you try to understand your feelings, the closer you'll be to becoming a master of your self.  After you analyze your current negative thought pattern/behavior try taking a small action step; something to try to help you face what you're feeling and get you out of that darkness (you don't want to be stuck in the dark for too long).  Remember, a small, manageable step can help you take bigger steps; just take it day by day.

How are you feeling this week?  Is it just me or are emotions running high?

By the way, have you checked out my FREE E-BOOK? It's called "Greens on the Side" and will help you get started with your weight loss goals in just 5 easy steps.  Check it out!