32 www . AspireMAG . net | February / March 2018
over , and I plunged into a downward spiral that ended with my business crumbling . Years of effort , all gone in just a few months .
What I learned from this ( aside from the fact that I needed to create a business that didn ’ t rely solely on my daily efforts for its success ) was that my mindset was paramount to my success . When I decided to dive into the real estate world , I drew on everything I had learned during my time with Mary Kay , especially the personal development practices I ’ d let slide during the stress of my divorce . Creating a success spiral was easier the second time around because I already knew the power and influence of my beliefs , thoughts , and spiritual practices on my success .
Spirituality and personal development are a huge part of cultivating a positive mindset and creating a success spiral . Why ? Because this work helps you become more aware of your beliefs , actions , and motivations — and when you have an awareness of something , it ’ s a lot easier to change it if it isn ’ t supporting you .
Before we proceed , let me be clear : when I talk about “ spirituality ,” I ’ m not necessarily talking about religion . To me , spiritual practice is about connecting with whatever forces in your life feel unconditionally loving and supportive . Those forces could be God or Goddess , but they could also be nature , your higher self or soul , the Universe , or something else altogether .
Listening to powerful speakers , spiritual leaders , and educators is just one way to jumpstart your personal development . Equally as powerful are the daily practices that connect you with yourself and where you are in this moment . If you never get quiet and still , how can you possibly hear and understand what ’ s happening inside you ?
The personal and spiritual development practices you choose to engage with will help you gain insight and knowledge about who , what , and where you are . You ’ ll get clarity about your beliefs and your circle of influence . And you ’ ll see where your mindset is , and isn ’ t , supporting your growth and expansion .
My personal practice includes meditation , journaling , and quiet time . Each morning , I ask for guidance about how to live my life ’ s purpose . I listen to guided mediations , read affirmations , and journal about how I want to apply this information to my day . is helps to keep me grounded and focused not only on what I want to accomplish , but who I want to be each day . Each evening , I journal about my day , and focus on feeling gratitude for all the positive things that have happened and the success I ’ ve created .
32 www . AspireMAG . net | February / March 2018