Read my latest article at the Muddled Millennial - https://www.themuddledmillennial.com/single-post/2017/05/04/What-Does-Determination-Mean-To-You

What Does 'Determination' Mean To You?

May 4, 2017

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Dawn DePhillips

The definition from Wikipedia:  Determination is a positive emotional feeling that involves persevering towards a difficult goal despite obstacles.  

 

Did you ever want something so bad that you were not going to give up until you got it? Everyone has a goal they want to achieve and determined to accomplish.  Some would have never reached their goal if they did not have determination.  Their drive, ambition, and motivation were key factors to make their goal a reality.

 

I am sure you have noticed that some people are more determined than others, and a lot of us need the motivation to get things going.  I know some strong-willed determined people that make things happen in their life.  They are determined to succeed and just won’t quit.  What I noticed about them is that they did not care what others thought, and they had the power and gained control over their own life.  

 

That right there is empowering. They realize that things do not happen overnight and they are patient.  They make lists and visualize their success, they think positive to eliminate any fear they might have.  Even if they run into obstacles, (and there is always something), they stay focused and keep with their goal until it is obtained.  They are disciplined and committed.  They set their goals and understand their abilities. They have a good support network. I have also seen these people keep tangible reminders such as pictures, etc., some even have inspirational and motivational sticky notes.  

 

We all need to find what works for you, and keep you on track.  I think it is also important to focus on yourself and not focus on others.  Be thankful for what you have and what you are doing.  The more you achieve, the more ambition and confidence you will have to go and achieve your next goal.  

For some inspiration, here are a few famous people I found that had some tough odds against them, but were determined to make it. 

 

Author, J.K. Rowling – before publishing the series of Harry Potter novels, she was broke, depressed, divorced and raising a child by herself.  She became one of the richest women in a span of five years.  

 

English Rock Band, The Beatles – When they first started out, a recording company told them they did not like their sound and that guitar music was on the way out. Well, the world did not agree.

 

Athlete, Michael Jordan – He was cut from his high school basketball team.  He has said that he has failed repeatedly, and that is why he succeeded.

 

There are a lot more people that have made it, and you never knew their struggle. Without their determination, they would never have become what the world has known them to be.

 

Remember my friends, you are more powerful than you know and can accomplish anything you want. Go out and kick some butt today, you got this!
Act as if it were impossible to fail.”  ― Dorothea Brande
 

Read my latest article - Things You Can't Go Without - www.themuddledmillennial.com

Things You Can't Go Without

April 24, 2017

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Dawn DePhillips

There are plenty of things in life that we have that make our lives easier and more comfortable, and help you to enjoy your life better.  We have the bare necessities and we have the absolute necessities.  

 

 

If you had to pick a few, it’s not that easy, so let’s break it down.  Here are some the obvious things you need to physically survive; you need air, food, shelter, water and sleep. For emotional survival, we need our loved ones; friends, family and of course, our pets. Depending on where we live, some people would consider this a luxury instead of a necessity; electricity, air conditioning and plumbing.  To buy things, you need money, and you would need a source of income that pays you so you can have the money to buy the stuff you need.  The majority of the people now can’t live without their smartphones, iPads, TV, high-speed internet or Wi-Fi access.  We all have things that keep us sane and functioning.  We are all different and have different needs. 

 

Let’s dig just a little deeper; what are the things you can’t go without; can you name at least 3?  Whether it is a material item that is part of your daily routine that is basic and simple that helps you enjoy life, or something that helps you to survive that you consider major, what keeps You going and what are some things you can’t go without?  

Besides the obvious things in my life, here are a few of things in my world that I can’t go without.  

 

My Nephews/Godsons -

 

I could never imagine loving anything more. They always make me happy.  When they hug me, it feels like the warmth of the most comfortable blanket you have ever felt.  I feel pure love and happiness when I am with them.  They are the beat of my heart. 

 

Music

 

- The sound of music always puts me in a great mood.  Music makes me happy.  It motivates me. Whether I am working out or getting ready in the morning for work when I hear some of my favorite songs it gets me moving. Everyone should have a soundtrack to their life.

 

Laughing –

 

Nothing is more nourishing for the soul than a good laugh.  When I am laughing, it is like instant sunshine. It is the cure for everything. A laugh a day will help keep the tears away.  I always say that any man that can make me laugh gets my heart.  I want to laugh until the day I die.

 

My Passport –

 

If was I was not able to plan an escape to another city or country, I would never get a new perspective on life.  I am always amazed what the world has to offer and what you see when you travel.  I am planning my next escape.

 

Iced Coffee -

 

 Summer or Winter, I will always get an iced coffee. The minute it hits my lips, I can taste the delicious flavor. It goes from my mouth to my brain, and I get the jump-start I need to get my day going.

 

Alcohol –

 

Whether it is a good glass of scotch, a cocktail or a cold beer, some of the time you just need to unwind and forget about your worries and enjoy.  Time with the people you can enjoy with is priceless.

 

Concealer –

 

Let’s face it, ladies, we have all had late nights or on no sleep.  When you want your eyes to look refreshed a good concealer is a girl’s best friend…enough said.

 

 

things we cant go without

necessities

family

 

 

Things To Know Before You Go - Read My Latest

Things To Know Before You Go

https://www.themuddledmillennial.com/single-post/2017/03/20/Things-To-Know-Before-You-Go

You know what puts a big smile on my face…planning my next get away. From Cuba to Aruba, I am all for a little escape from life.  My mind, my heart and my soul all open when I travel.  It changes me for the better and makes me appreciate even more what I have and what I can do.Travel has been my best teacher.  I have been seeing some great pictures of destinations I have always wanted to go to on social media, and to be honest, that has been a big inspiration for me. Even if your next trip is not for a while, there is no time like the present to start planning.  Here are some things to know before you go.

Passport/Visa - If you are traveling overseas, check your passport to make sure it has not expired and is valid for at least six months of your travel dates.  If the expiration date is coming up, you will need to renew.  All depending on where you are traveling to, find out about any necessary visas.  If you are traveling soon and need to find out more, below are two websites I found on passports and visas.  

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html

http://cibtvisas.com/visa-quick-check

Research – Do some research on where you are going.  Here are a few quick checks.

Check the weather to know what to pack and wear.  Find out about the cuisine and restaurants that have good write-ups so you can plan some great dining experiences.  Read up on the culture to get a better understanding of where you will be, and learn more about where you are going.  Find out about the transportation situation because not every place you visit has Uber.  Whether you want to spend time on the beach or go skydiving, you can customize your itinerary and pick the places you want to explore and things that you want to do. 

Money/Credit Cards – Call your credit card company to let them know where you will be traveling to and the dates of your travel.  You want to enjoy and do not need any unnecessary delays with purchases you make while you are on vacation, or the headache of having your credit card declined.  All depending on your destination, if you need to exchange currency, you can exchange your money before you go so you have cash on hand until you exchange at your location.    It is also important to take enough cash with you.  

A copy of Travel Documents – You can keep a copy downloaded on your smartphone, but just in case technology fails at the location you are traveling to, I always have a copy of my travel documents along with a copy of my passport that I keep separate just in case.  You can also leave a copy with someone you know so they know your travel plans as well.

Ask for Recommendations – Ask around.  Ask your friends or their friends who like to travel if they have been to where you are planning your next trip.  Find out what they did and what they enjoyed the most.  Get a list of their recommendations on museums to restaurants they went to and places that they would recommend to see. 

Dream it, plan it! - Find that special someone or some travel buddies, make a budget and use your vacation time! If you are pressed for time or can’t decide on a destination, consult a professional who can work with you. They can advise you on travel insurance and other questions you might have, and you have a person to contact in case of any issues while on vacation, and can make it easy for you to help plan your amazing trip.  
Get out of your comfort zone, explore and be adventurous.  Plan your travel and then tell your story because I know it will be an amazing one!  Safe travels my friends.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” Saint Augustine