“Unlock Your Best Life: 5 Must-Do’s Before Life-Changing Decisions”

StickyFaith, Family, Fitness, General

We all face choices daily, from what to wear or eat to more profound decisions that can alter the course of our lives. Let’s talk about those big life decisions, the ones that demand more than a flip of a coin.

Life decisions are the game-changers, choices that have the power to shape the trajectory of your existence. Before we dive in, it’s worth mentioning that life circumstances, like the curveballs of death or sickness, often come uninvited – we’ll save that discussion for another time.

Your choices shape your destiny. 🌟 #LifeDecisions #EmpowerYourChoice" Share on X
  1. Prayer & Spiritual Guidance: Pause for prayer or seek spiritual guidance. Connecting with your inner self and seeking divine insight can provide peace as you navigate uncharted waters. It’s a moment to find clarity amid the uncertainties.
  2. Core Values Check: Reflect on your core values. What truly matters to you in life? Are your choices in alignment with these values? Understanding your fundamental principles can be a compass guiding you through tough decisions.
  3. Outcome Investigation: Count the cost. Delve into the potential outcomes of your decision, weighing both the positive and negative aspects. How might it impact not just your life but your community? This foresight helps you make an informed decision.
  4. Emotional State Assessment: Take a moment to assess your emotional state. Is fear, stress, or impulse driving your decision? Ensure you’re in a calm and rational mindset before taking the plunge.
  5. Talk it Over: Don’t go it alone. Reach out to trusted friends or family members. Discussing your decision with others can provide valuable insights and emotional support. Different perspectives might unveil aspects you hadn’t considered.

And then, when you’ve done the groundwork, make your decision. Own it. Whether you decide to take the leap or stay put, remember, the power lies in your choice to make it right for you. It’s your journey, after all.

"In the realm of life decisions, emotions can be the navigator or the storm. Take a moment, assess, talk it over with loved ones, and then choose your course wisely. ⚖️ #DecisionMaking #EmotionalIntelligence" Share on X

Racism Sucks

StickyFaith, Family, General, ,

Hey, have you heard the one about 2 white boys and a ni****?

Proceeds to tell the joke. Then sheepishly looks over at me,

“oh, I’m sorry, Nikki,” or

Hey, I can’t get these lights to work, I say we just ni*** rig it.

“Oh, sorry, Nikki.”

Should my offense be at the joke or the apology? Or should I be offended at all? Strong Christians don’t get offended! And an apology makes it ok, right?I mean, what kind of person doesn’t accept an apology?

And after all, it was just a joke! You’re too sensitive.
Can’t you take a joke?

I know it may be hard to believe, but I would never have even thought these comments to be considered racist until a few months ago.
Because this was how I was raised. These comments came from church people, friends, and loved ones who I know for a fact would never have done anything to purposely hurt me.
We are in the Deep South.
It was a different time back then….. I could go on and on with the excuses.

But now, here we are. 2020 Need I say more.

Racism sucks your self-worth!
Recently, By talking to friends and seeing the actual pain and anger from racism and injustice, something began to stir inside me. Something deep down that I had to keep smothered for survival. Something I never even realized was there. I always felt like this wasn’t my fight. One of the hard things about being multi-racial; is knowing what “team” you’re on. Knowing who’s got your back or who’s fighting with you or for you. This can be incredibly confusing when all the faces closest to you don’t look like you.

Racism sucks your clarity!
Where do I stand? Who am I?
I had an adorable blonde-haired boy tell me one time that he thought I was pretty and he wanted to be my boyfriend. But first, he needed to know what I “was.”
If I had a dollar for every time I’ve been asked that question. (there would be no more world hunger)
That question became a hole in my soul and left me in a real identity crisis.

Racism sucks your identity.
I could give you story after story of the things I’ve endured that have left scars on my soul. As I’m sure, many of you can as well. But that’s not what I want you to take away. Maybe that will come later in my novel. (Haha)

But for now, I want you to know that it is only through Christ that I have overcome, and I am continuing to overcome this crisis of identity.
You will only find yourself, your true identity, in Christ, your maker!

I was His excellent idea!
He shaped me, formed me, and made me like I am on purpose and for a purpose.

Jeremiah 1:5(a) – I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.

Jeremiah 29:11- I know the plans I have for you says the Lord, they are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Psalm 139:13-18
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.
They cannot be numbered! I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!

Racism has sucked some things from me, but God restores and gives back more than what was stolen.
This is where I put my hope and find my identity!

“We will overcome what divides us by the power of the cross.”

I wanna hear from you…. comment and tell me what has racism “sucked” from you?

*When you purchase a tee-shirt, a portion of the proceeds will go to a local charity

God is Good?

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God is still good, even when it’s hard to hold on to that truth.

In this season, I’m learning a few things about grief, pain, and God’s presence in the midst of it all:

✨ Presence over perfection – Sometimes all we can do is show up, broken and raw. God meets us there, not in our perfection, but in our presence.

✨ Authenticity over prosperity – Life’s true richness is found in being real, especially when we’re hurting. God honors our honesty, not just our success.

✨ Grief is evidence of our capacity to love deeply – This pain we feel is a reminder of the love we carry. Loss hurts because love runs deep.

✨ Isolation isn’t the answer – It’s tempting to retreat, but connection with others is the way forward, even in the darkest times.

✨ Do it with pain – Healing doesn’t erase the pain. But even through the ache, we keep going, finding strength and meaning in each step.

Through all of it, I’m reminded that God’s goodness isn’t dependent on our circumstances. He’s good in our joy and in our grief. And even here, I believe that.

Transformative Leadership

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Embrace Inward-Out approaches for excellence!

In the heart of my yard stands a slender, 40ft tree. Its branches are not extravagant, gracing the sky with only a few, yet its significance runs deep. This unassuming tree holds a remarkable secret: its strength emanates from within.

This truth mirrors the essence of leadership. Our resilience should bloom from the depths of our being, a strength cultivated within and radiating outward. In the hushed moments, we find solace in our inner bond with God, a wellspring of strength forged in the battles hidden from plain sight. As leaders, nurturing our souls becomes paramount. Just as our core gains vigor, its influence unfurls to the world beyond.

Often, we invest faith in our appearance, talents, and charisma, neglecting that they stand on the foundation of our core. Yet, a robust core births pure functionality. 

There existed another tree by my office—a picture of vitality. Adorned in leaves, it thrived. Then, a storm struck, toppling it from its pedestal. Amidst the clearing, a revelation emerged: the heart of the tree was rotten.

Scripture reminds us, “They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” (Psalms 1:3) Just as these trees flourish by the river, so do leaders prosper when anchored within, ready to weather any storm.

Let’s remember, it’s from the center that authenticity flows. True leadership starts within, where roots intertwine with character, values, and conviction. When nurtured, this inner strength manifests in a life of purpose, impact, and lasting legacy.

“Finding the Silver Lining: Overcoming Pessimism and Embracing Hope”

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“Pessimism: because why settle for just being unhappy when you can be consistently disappointed by everything? #Sarcasm #Pessimism”


Someone recently asked me if I thought I was more optimistic or pessimistic. Of course, I proudly said, “I’m optimistic!” This got me thinking about the truth of pessimism.


IT’S FREAKING EASY TO BE PESSIMISTIC! Yes, I was yelling… at the HALF-EMPTY cup! The entire culture sets us up to look for the negative. It may just be me, but a negative outlook is a default. Oh wait, that isn’t very optimistic!


So how do we see the silver lining to the DARK CLOUD THAT STAYS OVER MY HEAD? Why Am I yelling? Oh boy!

Heres a few thoughts to overcome pessimism and embrace hope!

  1. Practice gratitude: Make a habit of focusing on the people and things you are thankful for and expressing gratitude for them.
  2. Reframe negative thoughts: When you have a negative thought, challenge it by looking for evidence that supports a more positive perspective.
  3. Surround yourself with positivity: Seek out people, activities, and environments that uplift you and bring you joy.
  4. Focus on solutions, not problems: Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, concentrate on finding solutions to problems.
  5. Engage in self-care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being through activities like exercise, meditation, and hobbies.

“You cannot control what happens to you in life, but you can control your attitude towards it.” – Unknown

Are you more optimistic or pessimistic? Thoughts?

Are you Inspired?

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Inspiration! 

Most people, when encountered with something great someone else has built, walk away inspired. 

Honest people say maybe I can do it too. 

And they walk away feeling encouraged. 

But watch out! 

Some look at what you have built and say I want it. 

I want what you have, And I will do whatever it takes to take it away from you!

They don’t want to do the hard work of building. They want to reap your rewards.  

When my reality is your dream how do you respond? 

When my dream is your reality, I will honor you and be inspired.  

Who inspires you?  

Dating your Spouse?

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Do you date your spouse? Think about this old verse in a popular song, “You gotta dance with the one that brought you!’ Ok, maybe it wasn’t a popular song but follow the thought. Dating got you and yours to the marriage alter. Dating will help sustain a level of health in your marriage.
Here are a few essentials of a fantastic date night.
Schedule it – everyone is so busy, and we must prioritize the importance of our relationships. Write it down! Send your spouse an invitation. Highlight the calendar.

Anticipate it – talk about how much fun it’s going to be. Send each other messages leading up to the date.
“I can’t wait to spend the evening out with you!”

Protect it – something always comes up. While a few things require you to reschedule, those things must be on a concise list.

Wisdom: don’t try to work things out on date night. Don’t use a date night to end a disagreement. Enjoy your time – plan to laugh, make out, dream, or stare into each other’s eyes. Focus on enjoying each other. You may need a predate night to talk things out.

Here is a great date night idea.
Schedule a trip to a town or city nearby that you usually don’t visit.
Look for a new restaurant and enjoy some fresh surroundings.

When was your last date night?

PSA Cycling 

Family, Fitness, General

Everybody is in a hurry. Speeding tickets prove this. It seems some believe the road is made of lava, and the longer they stay on it, the worse things will be. I get it. I can be impatient. But when it comes to life and death, I think we all should and would choose life. 

So, because I value your life and mine, I wanted to give a little 

PSA concerning cyclists. 

I ride. I cycle. My main exercise activity includes miles on the road riding a two-wheeled, chain-driven, human-powered machine. 

BTW, my name is Steven. I have a family that I love. So that you know, I have three beautiful grandbabies. This is very important because, just like you, I want to make it home safe. 

As a cyclist, I’m not trying to impede your progress of getting off the lava; I’m just trying to enjoy my chosen form of exercise. 

The most important idea you can embrace is that every cyclist has a name and a story.

When you, in your car, come upon me on my bike (cyclist) or a group of cyclist (peloton), here are a few things to do. 

Give me room. Minimally 3 feet, but moving to the other lane is much better if it is safe to do so. Oh, and you don’t have to show off your loud mufflers as you pass.  https://georgiabikes.org/resources/georgia-bike-laws/

Passing on hills or sharp curves is dangerous for everyone. If you can’t see what’s coming, be patient and enjoy the ride in your car with AC, watching me struggle up a hill in the heat. 

Fourways and roundabouts. Simple, give me the lane. It won’t take much time; I want to move through quickly, and I appreciate this one. 

BTW, blowing your horn don’t make my legs move faster. If you see me on the road and want to wave, great, I will wave back. Your horn can startle me and cause a wreck. If you must blow that horn do it after you pass me. 

Flick me off.

I get it you may be having a bad day, and I and my spandex add to it. So I receive your finger with compassion and wish you the best. Just give me a little room. 

And if you are just an angry person and want to cause issues with me on my bike, please know you and your car win every time. Also, listen to the song #TryJesus -Tobe Nwigwe

Remember, my name is Steven, and I Love my family and life, most likely just like you. 

#everycyclisthasaname 

What can you do to make the roads safe for everyone? 

nogoalsnewhabits

#nogoalsnewhabits

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This time of year is exciting! I think this is the one time of the entire year where change is most widely accepted. I’m sure you’ve seen all the New Year slogans and hashtags… Deck the halls with new resolutions. Tis’ the season to improve yourself. #newyearnewme #thisismyyear #startagain #becomingabetterme  

We all understand our goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. #SMARTGoals. We get it! But easier said than done.

According to History.com, the practice of new year’s resolutions started some 4000 years ago with the Babylonians. They would make 

Promises to their gods to pay back debts and return anything borrowed (BTW, where’s my hedge trimmers?) They would also reaffirm their loyalties to the king.

Same story, new year.

Does this sound familiar to anyone?

In January, I’m motivated to achieve my goal to run a marathon this year. (insert any goal here) after running a few feet in January, I say, “it’s too cold to run; I will start running when it’s warmer” (insert any obstacle here.)

By February, life has gone back pre-new year resolution. #tryagainnextyear 

There has to be A better way. 

#nogoalsnewhabits Our habits are what shape us! If we desire a new shape or change, we need new habits! Considering habits, Think “being” over “doing!”  Example: I want to lose weight = doing. I desire to be healthier = being. Think lifestyle over time-frames. Example: Think, “I want to run a marathon this year” Instead, think “I want to be a runner!” 

Develop new habits, see a new you.  

Here is a shortlist of ideas to help you begin to develop healthy habits. 

  • Clarify the new habit. For some ideas, here is a quick link to 192 healthy habits. https://www.developgoodhabits.com/healthy-habits/
  • Start where you are now, not where you want to be later on. You may want to be a runner, but you’re a walker right now. Small gains over some time bring huge returns. 
  • Practice keystone habits. Keystone habits can be defined as “small changes or habits that people introduce into their routines that unintentionally carry over into other aspects of their lives,” according to Charles Duhigg in his book, The Power of Habit. One of the easiest keystone habits is making your bed.  
  • Start new habits rather than stopping bad habits. Think “I want to change my diet” over “I have to stop eating fast food.” 
  • Share your habit with someone. There is power in the community!
  • Consider healthy habits for each area of your life. Spiritual, emotional, relational, financial, and physical. 
  • And most importantly, give yourself grace! We all miss the mark of the change we desire. Don’t give up! Embrace your humanity and keep at it. Someone wisely said, “Just because you miss one day of brushing your teeth doesn’t mean you give up on brushing them until next year!”

Every day you say yes to the new way, the habit you’re trying to form gets more established in your life.

If you're tired of starting over, stop giving up! Share on X

In this together,

SteveNikki

What new habits can you develop in 2021?

Ideas we are taking into 2021

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4 ideas we are taking into 2021. 

I know we are excited to see 2021. And that’s because 2020 was CRAZY. Hopes for a new year and new you quickly turned to hoarding toilet paper. Toilet Paper! Do we know yet what the need for hoarding toilet paper was all about? Crazy moments help us welcome new days. So, we welcome 2021 and say adios to 2020. 

“The past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” ― Rafiki

Here are 4 ideas that we learned in 2020 that we will be taking into 2021. 

Everybody needs somebody. When something is taken away, we then see it’s importance. 2020 has taught us the importance of community. We need each other! We will strive to be givers of grace in all our communities and continue to build healthy relationships. 

A rested you is a better you. Our frantic pace of life can outpace God. It was interesting to see how beautiful our world is without all the hustle during the lockdowns of 2020. I don’t want to be forced to rest in 2021 with more lockdowns. I want to be intentional with my rest and pace of life. #youareblessedifyourest

Simple is Spiritual. There is a place for the deep things of God. But it’s in the simple every day things done well and consistently that cause us to go forward in life, and help us to suffer less. Our spiritual lives are essential to our overall health.

"Hard things ain't bad things!" Share on X

Fun is Essential. “Laughter does good like a medicine.” If there is one thing 2020 has taught us, is that life is fragile. So make it a point to enjoy every single aspect of it. We often try to make a perfect life without any thought about enjoying said life. Embrace the dance even if you don’t dance; Or don’t dance well. Kool & the Gang said, “How you gonna do it if you really don’t wanna dance by standing on the wall? Get down on it!”

“It’s the rain that makes the flowers grow.”

What are you taking from 2020 into 2021? 

Thanksgiving

Faith, Family, General

Psalm 50:23 (a)
But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me

It is the human condition to complicate things. I raise my hand. As a person who sometimes teaches the truth to others, I have been very guilty of this.
After all, it seems like such a huge thing to share the very word of God. To have God himself speak through you sounds very overwhelming to me and a little scary. There are situations recorded in the Bible where ppl have been struck dead on the spot for misrepresenting God. Sign me up, right… ?? ha, no thanks.
But the cool thing is we are the ones He has chosen to use—all of our faults and all of our humanity. Also, the cool thing about grace is that if we offer it with a pure heart, He honors it. Like a kindergartener offering his parent a masterpiece that he drew in art class. (Think back to making a turkey out of your traced hand) the gospel message is straightforward; it’s just not easy. We are the ones that put rules and regulations and qualifiers on it. The message is simple… Love me, love others, help those in need, and truly be thankful.

This is the season to pause and reflect on how good our Father is to each of us. His goodness goes way deeper and way beyond accumulating“stuff!”
He has made hope and peace and healing and strength available to us. He helps us carry our burdens and those things that are too hard for us to carry on our own. He promised to be right there with us even if we have to walk in the very shadow of death.

Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

He promises to love us unconditionally when we don’t deserve it and to never leave us no matter where we may find ourselves. There is no darkness that is too dark to Him.
Darkness and light are the same to you.
(Psalm 139:11)

As we bring all our things to Jesus in worship and as a sacrifice this thanksgiving season,
Let us remember the power of a genuinely thankful heart.
Thankfulness makes what we have enough.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving season?

Nikki