Inspiration Needed!
Good afternoon! 
Sorry for the delay. The blog crashed late last night. I think we’ve sorted it out, though! If you had any comments/questions that I didn’t get a chance to respond to, please just ask again, and I’ll answer!
I had a delicious bowl of oatmeal for breakfast:
Just my regular banana oatmeal, but topped with flax and Toasted Quinoa. Yum!
Then, I wrangled the computer for about half an hour. After giving up (technology and I do NOT get along), I met up with Megan for a run.
I brought my camera in my SpiBelt because I wanted to show you where we run! It’s so pretty. We do this gorgeous loop around a lake. It’s the most beautiful in the early morning because it’s usually foggy.
I also brought a piece of chalk with me so I could do an Operation Beautiful note!
I think the “You are Beautiful!” message is great, but sometimes I like to get a little more creative. I like to think about someone finding this note who really needs it…
I’m so zen.
I left the nubbin of my chalk on the sidewalk, too. Maybe someone else will participate?
It was fun mid-run break.
We did 7.0 miles, but seriously… it was ROUGH! Some days are just harder than others, I suppose. We took a lot of untimed walking breaks and probably did more like 7.5 miles in total. It was very hot out… it seems that Central Florida has forgotten that it’s almost Christmas.
Here are my stats (for the run):
- Duration: 1 hour, 8 minutes
- Distance: 7.0 miles
I had to run some errands afterwards, so I snacked on a Glo bar in my car:
(Woah… need to re-paint my nails!)
And once I got home, I made an easy lunch. Just whole wheat spaghetti, kidney beans, and broccoli.
Oh cream sauce, I love thee. I just buy the Paul Newman’s kind; I’ve never made it from scratch but maybe I should try!
Chobani Winners!
I cannot believe that 925+ people entered the Chobani giveaway! You guys must really LOVE yogurt! The Chobani people were so excited by your response that they gave me not one, but TWO cases to give away.
The winners of the “My First Job” Chobani giveaway are:
- Laura: My first job was babysitting…not sure if that counts, we all probably babysat…the next one was at the local papermill doing data entry – when computers had green screens.
- Kacie: I worked at a high school reunion company when I was in high school. Worst boss ever! But it was fun to work at the events and watch all these adults get drunk.
Inspiration Needed!
Sometimes, Operation Beautiful is criticized for being “superficial.” I understand why people who are unfamiliar with the mission might say that, but the truth is that it doesn’t HAVE to be viewed that way at all. It’s not about how you look – it’s about how you FEEL! Sometimes, a person can see a simple message (like “Smile! You deserve it”) on a Post-It and feel completely transformed. And sometimes the messages that people write are so thoughtful, unique, and exciting.
I’m working on the VERY LAST CHAPTER of the Operation Beautiful book. It’s a conclusion chapter, and one thing I want to include is a list of positive, motivational mantras. I can’t tell you how many e-mails I get that say, “I want to participate, but I don’t know what to write!”
I can only think of so many positive mantras, though! I want to know what you tell yourself when you need a pick-me-up. Maybe I’ll use it in the book. And, in the very least, everyone else reading these comments will be inspired!
What’s your positive message?
Posted by: Caitlin 191 comments
Posted in: All Posts
on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:40 pm
My motivator is “There’s always a tomorrow”. Whether I feel down about a test, or a run, or whatever it may be, time is the great equalizer. What matters now might not matter in 30 minutes, let alone 30 years.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
I tell myself “I am strong”
Sometimes I mean physically, but often I mean emotionally
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Ohmigosh I never ever considered OB to be superficial?! When I’m down on myself I think about all the things I am so blessed by: family, friends, hubby, health.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:43 pm
These may not seem super inspirational to some, but they are for me… two quotes that I have up on my fridge at all times are:
“What you must do, do cheerfully.”
“Do what you feel in your heart to be right – you’ll be criticized for it anyway.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
When I have my negative voice telling me things about not being good enough I say ” I love and accept myself, I don’t listen to that garbage anymore”.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:45 pm
“You’re worth it”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Congrats on Glamour.com! AWESOME!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Every Day Matters!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
I am strong. I am able.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
When things get really bad and I don’t know how I can get through another day (or minute), I just say “One day at a time, one foot in front of the other.”
It’s silly but I also like the “Just keep swimming” song from Finding Nemo, even though I am a terrible swimmer. It’s catchy!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Helen Keller:
We could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world.
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Christy Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
so good!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
I hit a point not too long ago when I just didn’t feel like myself. I felt I was being lazy, unproductive, and not taking advantage of this life I am blessed enough to live. So to remind myself to live I wrote up the mantra “Live your life”. I put it on pretty pictures, post-its, and whatever else I could find and left them for myself around my home, in my purse, and at work. It has been helpful to me lately too. I have the LSAT coming up and there have been several instances where I think, “I’ll just watch this one show on tv” or “I am going to just watch this one movie tonight and tomorrow I will study”. So, I have started putting the notes on my tv and on the DVD stand. It has been a good reminder to live this wonderful life I have and to live it to my fullest potential.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Wahoo for the glamour.com article!! It’s funny to read that it’s hot in Florida while we’ve got inches of snow on the ground and a wind chil of -15 here.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
My husband actually told me this one day (I was going for a photo shoot and was so nervous!). He said, “Confidence is sexy, even if you have to fake it.”
And you know what? If you fake confidence for a few minutes, you start to ACTUALLY become confident!!!
xx
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
I just saw this and as a daily reader of your blog I had to comment and say CONGRATS!!! Now I am going to go back and read this post:)
http://www.glamour.com/health-fitness/blogs/vitamin-g/2009/12/shes-trying-to-make-women-arou.html
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Definitely “You’re Worth It”
I’ve also been saying these a lot (to myself and others):
“Dream Big! Then make it happen. You can dooooo it!”
“The only things standing between you and your goal is yourself and your fear. Be Fearless.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
You are already enough! Anything else you do is icing on the cake.
Haha and my mother in law told me, on my wedding day, to calm my nerves “I am young, beautiful, happy, and everybody loves me” lol!
P.S. I am doing a Sur la table giveaway on my new blog.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
My mantra is “It is what you make of it”, and that never fails to motivate me, because with that mantra I can choose to make myself and my life be the way I want it.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
If it’s meant to be, it’ll happen!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Everything will be okay in the end, and if it’s not okay, it’s not the end.
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Jennie Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 10:41 pm
This is my favorite quote too!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
I’m going through a treatment of infusions at an infusion clinic where a lot of people suffer from MS, SLE, and dozens of other autoimmune diseases. Most of them require assistive devices to walk, such as a walker, wheelchair, or cane – everytime I come here to get an infusion I contemplate writing a note to leave in the bathroom, but haven’t come up with anything clever yet…
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
First of all I love your blog (yeah I’m a lurker)
2nd i am trying to make the transition into a healthier lifestyle and you and a few other blogs i read are really inspiring. i also LOVE operational beautiful. I’m always “the encourager” with my friends!!lol. I PREACH self love.lol.
but my friend yore, who’s an amazing artist and former model [who struggled with body issues] has adopted a new saying:
“God is an artist;you are a masterpiece. Please, stop crticising his work”. I think it’s quirky,but SO TRUE!
And one of my personal mantras is “You’re only worth what you sell yourself for. YOU’RE PRICELESS so dont sell yourself short” and ” I love myself”.lol.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
*When things are tough my fav is: This too shall pass.
*The only person you can change is yourself.
*You are strong, fit and healthy.
*Love yourself. Laugh a lot. Live vibrantly.
*You are already strong enough.
*You are worth it.
*A smile brightens a heart.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
You rock!
My positive mantra is ‘You are so much stronger than you think you are’
It got me through half marathons, stressful jobs, grad school, everything!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
I’m motivated by quotes. They’re some of my greatest inspiration. I could spend hours searching, reading, and saving quotes if I ever had the time. But, I’ve only actually memorized one to use as inspiration. It’s the motivation I lean on, in my worst times.
I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it. ~ Maya Angelou
I also love this one – “Promise me you’ll always remember: You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” {Christopher Robin to Pooh} – A.A.Milne
Sometimes my mind wanders to the song “Be OK” by Ingrid Michaelson. Hearing the refrain is calming to me, somehow.
Good luck on the last chapter!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
One of my mantras when I’m having a hard time getting through something tough is “I can handle this for now” it kind of gives me permission to question whether I can do it but at the same time forces me to keep going.
If I just keep repeating it, it is always “now” and so the fact that it almost gives me permission to “quit” later is fine because later never comes.
I know it isn’t really positive and uplifting, but sometimes you just need to do what you need to do to get through the really tough spots.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
I always tell myself that I am worth it. I think as women we give so much to others and forget about ourselves. So I try to tell myself to take that time for myself, because I am so worth it!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
I love: “Be the change you wish to see in the world”
Also, for whatever reason a quote from the movie “A Cinderella Story” with Hilary Duff (love her) has stuck with me:
“Never let the fear of striking out, keep you from playing the game.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
I LOVE your blog (yeah ima lurker) and it’s really inspiring me to get into a healthy lifestyle!
Anywho, my friend yore an amazing artist and foremer model [who struggled w/ body image issues] has adopted a new mantra “God is an artist;you are a masterpiece. Please,stop criticizing his work”.lol. So quirky but SO TRUE.
and i say “You’re worth as much as you sell yourself for, and you’re PRICELESS!” also “I love myself”, sometimes i have to remind myself, ya kno?lol.
and I LOVE OPERATION BEAUTIFUL!I’m minoring in women’s studies because i love this type of stuff! Rock on!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
Some of my faves:
- You can never cross the ocean unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore
- If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change
- If you’re going through hell, keep going
- Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall
- The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing
I always read your blog and now leave ‘operation beautiful’ notes as well. I live in the Netherlands, so your idea is spreading throughout the world!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:06 pm
When struggling to embrace my femininity and self confidence as a freshman computer engineering student, an older female scholar told me: “life is short, you are capable”. Even now as a full time professional engineer/part time electrical engineering grad student repeating those words helps me find the inner strength and self assurance I need to keep giving it my best.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
ok so i probably look like a real creeper now…i didn’t kno that first comment went through.lol
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
“It’s not what you look at that matters; it’s what you see.” (Thoreau) My fave quote! Reminds me to keep all the craziness that comes with life in perspective!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
“Nothing is hopeless, we must hope for everything.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:13 pm
I would have to say what keeps me motivated is the phrase “God never gives you more than you can handle”. Another one that my mom always says when things are rough is “this, too, shall pass”…and she’s always right
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:16 pm
When it comes down to it- its all about being healthy and ALIVE. Nothing else matters.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:18 pm
My mantra: You CAN do it!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
Don’t take life too seriously cause you’re not gonna get out alive anyways.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:22 pm
My mantra is “Just Do It And It’s Done.”
I make the same pasta dish that you’ve got there, but I use plain Oikos instead of cream sauce. Try it sometime. It’s yummy!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
“Progress, not perfection.” This phrase comes from my counselor, Gena (same Gena from the “Choosing Raw” blog).
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:24 pm
This is from the book “Eat,Pray,Love”…and I use it all the time…
“This too will pass”
Also what brand of whole wheat spaghetti do you use?
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:24 pm
wow, it’s so nice to read all these awesome quotes
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:24 pm
Not sure of the author, but this is one of my faves:
“Of all the forces that make for a better world, none is so powerful as hope. With hope, one can think, one can work, one can dream. If you have hope, you have everything”.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
I’ve always loved the saying “This too, shall pass”.. because, inevitably it always does.
And I love the anonymous quote: “Defeat may test you; it need not stop you. If at first you don’t succeed, try another way. For every obstacle there is a solution. Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. The greatest mistake is giving up.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:26 pm
I go for the simple ones:
“Just do it.”
“Just keep moving.”
“One foot in front of the other.”
“Push yourself.”
“I move onward
The only direction
Can’t be scared to fail
Search ya perfection
Gotta keep it fresh girl ”
-Jay-z
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Confidence is everything!
Also, came across this quote, maybe it will help inspire your writing of the OB book…
For art to exist, for any sort of aesthetic activity or perception to exist, a certain physiological precondition is indispensable: intoxication. (Friedrich Nietzsche)
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
I just posted a super simple cream sauce recipe… Check it out and try it! http://rhodeygirltests.com/2009/12/08/whole-wheat-fettuccine-with-cream-sauce-kalamata-olives/
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That’s why they call it the present.”
I love this quote! It makes me want to smile every day because each day we’re livin’ and breathin’ is a gift.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
I don’t know if it’s a mantra, but really just the “everything will be okay” idea, or “all you need is love”. When I’m stressed, I remember that I’ll get everything done, and even if I don’t, the world won’t end. As long as I have my loved ones, everything will be just fine.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Your oats look scrumptious topped with your toasted Quinoa. I actually followed your recipe yesterday, but mine came out scorched black! I gotta try it again. Sounds delish.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
I love “be the change you wish to see in the world” ~ Ghandi
and “thoughts become things, choose the good ones” ~ message from “the universe” (theuniverse@tut.com)
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:31 pm
“Just put one foot in front of the other”
“Just get started”
“surrender”
“Choose the present moment”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
I have a few that I say to myself during different situations.
1. Your family and friends love you no matter what you get on a paper
2. It only hurts for a little while but stay strong because you can conquer anything
3. for 5k’s = It’s only 20 mins of pain for a full day of joy!
4. Your strong, independent, and determined never forget that
5. Don’t give up your dreams because you don’t think you can achieve your goal. Your dreams are your goal and your journey is just the experience!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:33 pm
I tend to be pensive and reflective while running and seeing a note like that on a running path would make me feel at peace! Great note!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
My favorite mantra is the one my mom taught me:
I choose to be happy today. Yes, happiness is an emotion, but whether or not we choose to harness it is up to us!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
I’ve got two mantras. The first is “there is nothing you can’t do”, and the second is a song lyric by BNL:
Nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight
Gotta kick at the darkness ’til it bleeds daylight
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:37 pm
I love that mantra–exactly what I needed to hear right now. Sometimes you just need someone tell you that everything will be OK. Thanks!
http://www.firednfabulous.blogspot.com/
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
“Celebrate life and it’s possibilities.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
One of my mentors in college always said “Life’s adjustable.” It stuck with me and I keep the saying written on a post-it note above my desk.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
Who would ever think Operation Beautiful is superficial?! Clearly, they do not understand what it’s all about!! Some people, jeez!
My personal mantra is “adversity makes me stronger” and I say that to myself when I’m going through a difficult/challenging time. Also, I think to myself “I am my own worst critic…and I am good enough.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
my mantra for life…
“Don’t give up…Don’t ever give up” Jimmy V.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:42 pm
On my RoadID it says: “NOTHING WORTH IT IS EASY”…It reminds me that at the end of hard work comes joy and proudness (is that a word!?) and a feeling of accomplishment!
I also just like, simply, YOU ARE WORTH IT…some people forget that THEY are, in fact, WORTH IT!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
I know it’s cheesy, but I always think “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough and gosh darn it people like me” It’s from a super old SNL with Stewart Smiley (smalley?)
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Tara Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
yes!!! I think of him all the time. And now he’s the a MN Senator. Oh Al Franken, you are so versatile.
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Kristen Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 5:03 pm
i actually sent that quote to someone last week. i love it!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
mine is a bible verse from Psalms, “You are fearfully and wonderfully made.” no matter what goes on in a day, who puts me down, God loves me for who I am and he made me that way.
Quirks and all.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
That’s weird my site didn’t show up in my earlier comment. Love the mantra idea!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Attitude is everything: if I tell myself it’s going to be okay, it will be. If I tell myself I’m beautiful, I am.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Sometimes, life is hard (understatement). And sometimes, it feels like the whole universe has conspired against us. We have our own personal stuff like body image issues (which are so much more than superficial), life transitions like job changes/job seeking/ marriage/ break-ups/ you name it, illnesses in our family, and the list goes on. Sometimes, all these things happen at once.
It’s very easy to get caught up in somewhat depressive thoughts over all of it. In these most difficult times, it’s easiest to be very hard on ourselves. But that’s when we have to have the most compassion for ourselves. We have to treat ourselves with kindness because kindness and compassion are the most powerful tools on earth.
Furthermore, we must remember that we have a choice in the matter. Even if we’ve lost our job or our boyfriend, we can choose to get up, eat healthy foods, go to the gym or for a job, shower, and treat ourselves well. The hurts won’t go away, but choosing to not live our lives will make them worse. We can choose to deal with our problems in a healthy manner and remember that self-compassion is the first step out of whatever difficulty we’re in.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:48 pm
When I take time/money to do things for myself, I often feel bad about it and have to remind myself that doing something for myself is as important as doing things for others. Sorry it isn’t exactly in an inspirational form but maybe can help you form ideas!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
“Impossible is nothing.”
I think that was an adidas or nike ad a few years back…does anyone know? I read it after my first half marathon and it just clicked. I kind of apply it to everything now.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
“You are not your body.”
Simple. Being beautiful is not about my body. I am not defined by my body.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
I’ve been using yours & meghann’s running mantras…but on Thanksgiving my husband and I were talking about what we were most thankful for and I decided I’m most thankful for my new outlook on life…
The world is so full of people just waiting for tomorrow to happen TO them, I say CARPE DIEM, better yet seize YOUR LIFE!! MAKE it happen.
(I could go on and on and on, but I AM working
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
Of course you need to listen to your body if you are really hurting, but when I was training for my half marathon, my favorite mantra was “Pain is temporary, quitting is forever.” It really got me through some tough runs, and it was actually on a sign around mile 11 of the half marathon which I needed to see at that point!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Just thought of another one I like a lot too:
“Whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right!”
It’s all mental!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
My mantra I started saying to myself about six years ago is this: “with every breathe I let go” I tend to over analyze everything and worry about anything and everything. I am learning the art of letting go and patience thanks to Yoga! I LOVE yoga so much, really I can’t say enough amazing things about it and what the practice has taught me.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
CAITLIN!!!
DID YOU SEE THIS…….
http://www.glamour.com/health-fitness/blogs/vitamin-g/2009/12/shes-trying-to-make-women-arou.html
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Caitlin Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
thanks!!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
thought of another one..
I believe that you truly can keep going long after you think you cannot anymore.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
I always tell myself “If you think you can, you can”, it keeps me from quitting the last few sets or miles because at that point it’s all mental. When I’m doing something hard, like learning to run I keep repeating “I can do this, I’m doing this and I’m rocking it”. Not quite poetry but it gets me through the hard stuff!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:02 pm
“Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I love this. Reading the positive messages is so motivational. There is nothing extremely creative about mine, but whenever I get in a situation that is hard or I feel like I want to quit I just say, “You CAN do this!” and I think back to myself, “You are right, I can!”.
The OB note on the sidewalk is awesome!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
Oh my goodness, I would love a warm weather run…I ran this morning in 45 mph winds that seemed to go right through my warmest winter running clothes! I hope it cools down for you soon!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Whenever I am struggling I just remind myself of this quote:
“The challenge is to be yourself in a world that is trying to make you like everyone else.”
It really gives me the confidence to be ME and releases any societal pressure I may feel at the time.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:04 pm
Well since I’ve been running (3 whole days whoo hoo) when I feel like I want to stop I keep repeating “You are fierce, You are fierce” It actually helps!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:05 pm
I’m so jealous of your warm weather — I can’t seem to get warm up here!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:17 pm
some of my favorites:
*even impossible says i’m possible!
*this too shall pass
*for my strength is made perfect in weakness
*a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step
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alli Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 3:13 pm
another one i like
“it’s always darkest before the dawn”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Two mantra’s really stick out in my mind. When I am having a blow of low self esteem I think to my self, “be true to myself and everything will work out”. I also love this quote by Winston Churchill
“Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm”.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
This isn’t so much a mantra, but I love telling myself “if you did it when you started thinking about doing it, you’d be done by now.” I mostly think of it in terms of running, but it’s applicable everywhere. Kind of an enhanced “just do it!”
And another one “it will all be okay.” Sometimes just thinking this when I am overwhelmed or stressed out gives me some perspective.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
I love the mantra: “When in doubt, just take the next small step..” I have used that so many times over the last five years of college and it has been so motivating.
Another one I love, ” Frame every so called disaster with the question, “Will this matter in 5 years?” If it will, make the change, and if it wont, push through”
Great idea!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:22 pm
My mantra, which I repeat during rough spots while running: “Strength, power and grace.” Because when I finish running, that’s how I feel. And the chorus of P!nk’s “So What” is a bit of a you-go-girl mantra in and of itself …
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
I have a habit of letting my imagination go to the most negative space if something doesn’t work out the way I planned. I have started doing a check list with myself in order to gain perspective:
1) where are you? *If I’m at work, at home, or in my car I recognize how lucky I am to have all of these things
2) how is your body? *May be a weird question, but I tend to forget that I am a usually healthy person and I need to remind myself to be thankful for this.
These two questions usually get me enough time to breathe and get perspective on my life in order for me to calm down and realize that I really am ok and my life is already awesome!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:25 pm
My mantra is “The juice is worth the squeeze”
Your run was BEAUTIFUL! I am so jealous of the weather!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
Here are a couple of mine – hope they help! Good luck!
One step at a time.
Impossible = I’m possible
Just do your best.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
LOVE Operation Beautiful – not just about looks!! Some of my personal mantras:
- Keep on keepin’ on!
- Walk tall or don’t walk at all.
- You are enough.
- If it was easy, everyone would do it (with regards to running)
- I am strong, I am capable (I repeat during yoga)
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
My positive mantra is never give up. ever.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
When I need a pick me me or some motivation, I like to things that I have accomplished in my life- the really big things as well as smaller things. Making the honor roll, placing in an art contest, graduating high school, getting accepted into college, graduating college, getting a job offer, paying my own bills, learning from a mistake, mastering a song on the guitar, helping out a friend/person in need, etc. It’s really helpful to write these accomplishments down on paper. This is the best confidence booster and it has often worked for me. It will leave you feeling empowered.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
typo!* When I need a pick me up or some motivation, I like to think of things that I have accomplished in my life- the really big things as well as smaller things. Making the honor roll, placing in an art contest, graduating high school, getting accepted into college, graduating college, getting a job offer, paying my own bills, learning from a mistake, mastering a song on the guitar, helping out a friend/person in need, etc. It’s really helpful to write these accomplishments down on paper. This is the best confidence booster and it has often worked for me. It will leave you feeling empowered.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
With some self faith, feel your heart open,let go.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:45 pm
I’ve started telling myself “Run your own race.” I don’t just mean in races (although, I do it there, too) but in life in general. It reminds me that I don’t have to compete with anyone but myself and that life is not always greener on the other side.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
Haven’t had the chance to read through the other posts but hubby and I live by the phrases
“It is what it is” and one Jamaican’s use “There are no problems, only situations”
Lunch and breakfast looked yummy!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
I think OB is the OPPOSITE of superficiality!!! When I need a pick-me-up, I usually tell myself “You are so much more than your looks. You are a strong, confident, awesome woman. Don’t forget it!” Never fails.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
“This too shall pass”
It’s humbling in moments of complete joy but when I’m feeling down, like things are not going as they should, I remember that this is but a moment in a long string of moments and that whatever it is I’m feeling now will change. It also reminds me that I’ve been through worse and like those times, this too shall pass.
Another one is “shoulders back, chin up” because I think I slouch sometimes and reminding myself to stand tall is one of the easiest ways to perk myself up!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:00 pm
One of my favorites:
“You’ll always miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” –
— Wayne Gretzky
And I saw this on a post once that always made me feel better.
And from here:
http://www.examiner.com/x-22850-NY-Life-Coach-Examiner~y2009m9d11-The-Beatles-Michael-Jordan-and-Abraham-Lincoln-were-failures
“The Beatles were turned down for a record deal because they were told their sound wasn’t appealing. Michael Jordan cried when he was cut from his high school basketball team. Abraham Lincoln had two failed businesses, a nervous breakdown, and lost eight elections. On their way to becoming legendary, some of the best known people in history have all failed on their way to greatness.”
It always makes me feel better to think great people had to overcome failures. I think how we face adversity really measures what we will become in life.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Sorry, one more!
My mom always said to me and my siblings:
“90% of life is showing up.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Did you know Marilyn Monroe was actually a fabulous poet? In a lit class, we compared her work to Emily Dickinson, and it was so interesting. I actually really love two of her famous quotes:
“I’m selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don’t deserve me at my best.”
(It always makes me feel better in the face of criticism from harsh people.)
“I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when their right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.”
(This one is really great for handling a bad day.)
I also love this Confucius quote:”Everything has its beauty, but not everyone sees it”.
And I also like this very simple quote about accepting yourself, “I am what I am.”
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Katie Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Love the Marilyn Monroe quote! So true (and explains why I’m stuck on single)
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
My favorite inspiration is Walt Disney’s quote “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” It’s become my mantra while training for the Disney marathon.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
“I live in the world that I create.”- better make it a positive one!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
God I’m so jealous that you’re out running in shorts and a tank. It is legit blizzarding outside my window!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
Hmmm…
My mantra is:
“Don’t forget to laugh!”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Oh my gosh Caitlin. I just looked at how many subscribers you have, 1,958!! I can’t even IMAGINE having that many! I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to read the comments that you get and for making a habit of responding!
As for inspiration, I tell myself “this too shall pass” when things get too hard. If something bad happens, it cheers me up. There aren’t really specific phrases I say to pick myself up other than that though. I have used Meghann little phrase “you are a machine” during runs though
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Caitlin Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
i use the “i am a machine” too!!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
I loved reading these comments! Absolutely loved it. Especially because I’ve been kind of talking myself down about an exam I have (in 27 minutes) and everyone is right- whatever you tell yourself is going to be true! I am going to rock this exam-which is the last exam of my undergrad degree!
A comment that I loved was during a yoga class I was once at. The instructor was talking about how miracolous (sp?) our bodies truly are-that something of mostly water and air could be moving and breathing, and be as unique as each of us. And then we spend our lives hating ourselves. When he said that, it just clicked for me-what a waste of time! Why not focus on the good instead of seeing the miniscule flaws?
Caitlin this may be a stupid question-but what is your book going to be called? Will it just be “Operating Beautiful”?
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Caitlin Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
There are no stupid questions.
Yes, just Operation Beautiful.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
looks like a gorgeous route and run!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
“Keep Calm and Carry On” It’s not my own. It’s a British propaganda poster used during WWII. I have it framed in my apartment and look at it often when I feel stressed out or overwhelmed.
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Caitlin Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
i almost bought this poster last night! no joke!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
I like that message a lot!
My positive messages:
Everything will be OK.
Most things in life are temporary.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:47 pm
mine is “happy people make other people happy.” a good reminder to keep a positive attitude no matter what life throws at you!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
I’ve got a few, they are words my parents taught me and my three sisters to live by:
“You create your own happiness.”
“Chose your attitude.”
“Reach for the stars.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:48 pm
One thing I love to say to myself when I am being too critical of my body is “I refuse to hate my body today.” That might sound weird, but it’s an awesome reality check for me
. Sometimes I feel like I’m battling negative self-talk everyday but then I just remember that it’s essentially a choice for me… Accept myself or be critical.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Gorgeous loop around the lake…and I think what you wrote was very profound
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
I LOVE the operation beautiful note you left! Your route is gorgeous, too.
I love to tell myself “Look at the things you never thought you could get through but have…what’s one more thing?”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Mine has been “When life hands you lemons, make grape juice. Then sit back and watch the world wonder how you did it.” It got me through the roughest part of my life and has been my inspiration becoming my own business owner and artist.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:56 pm
I just read a good one on Jason Mraz’ twitter the other day and I am trying really really hard to adopt it as my own —
“Everything I could ever desire I already am. I am whole and complete now.”
Someimtes I forget that wanting to improve on certain aspects of my life doesn’t make me “incomplete”. We all have things we’d like to improve on and “perfect” doesn’t exist!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:57 pm
My favorites kind of relate to enjoying the present moment and just BE happy.
“The most wasted of days is one without laughter”
“Tomorrow is no place to place your better days.”
There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
I think a lot of how you look reflects how you feel. That may be superficial but taking care of yourself means loving yourself. That doesn’t mean being a waif and wearing 5lbs of make up, rather it means accepting the fact that you are beautiful because you’re you!
My pick me up is telling myself that everything will get done (like you chalked!) and that whatever is happening/bothering me now is only temporary.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
If I were to die tomorrow, am I living today how I want my kids to remember me?
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
if i’m having a bad day or feeling down, i just tell myself “it’s just one day and there is always tomorrow for a better one.”
definitely helps me to remember that’s just one day out of like 52468390 that i still have!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:01 pm
When I am in the middle of a really hard workout and I feel like giving up, I think: “This is for me.” I guess I mean that no one else will know if I slack off and don’t sprint or maintain the best form on my strength moves, but I will know, and I will be the one to benefit from giving a workout my all.
Also, Caitlin, where did you get your compression socks? Are they something you’d recommend? I googled them and could only find black ones … I liked your hot pink ones.
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Carrie H Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Oh, along the same lines, I’ve also been thinking “This is for my babies” … he he, I don’t have any kids, but I do have the baby fever a little bit. I want to stay in shape to be around to bug them for a LONG time.
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Caitlin Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
they are recovery socks brand! i got them a while ago, i don’t know if they are available still in pink.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
You should have a look at what the founder of the vegan society Donald Watson has said. If you google “Donald Watson interview” you should get a few results.
I found this one that I like which he uses (by Samuel Johnson): “The chains of habit are too weak to be felt until they are too strong to be broken.” from http://www.vegparadise.com/24carrot610.html
Good luck with the book! I am looking forward to reading it
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
What a lovely post
I think personal mantras can work wonders 
oooh and your lunch looks so delicious
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Last chapter! Yaaay. Excellent work.
The lake looks like a lovely place to run in the morning.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
One of my favorite lyrics:
You’ve come far,
and though you’re far from the end
You don’t mind where you are,
cause you know where you’ve been.
Carbon Leaf,Let your troubles roll by
Two of my favorite quotes:
“The chief cause of failure and unhappiness is trading what we want most for what we want at the moment.”
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
What I repeat to myself when I want to quit:
“I will finish this because there are thousands of people that just wish they had the chance try.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:22 pm
When I saw this post I thought, how ironic! I really struggled to just function today. I’ve been feeling down about my weight and didn’t want to leave the house. I had to run some errands and it took all my willpower to do it. So, I kept thinking about one of Dr. Phil’s life lessons; time will pass whether you do anything or not, so you might as well try to change. I think that fits really well with your quote; “when everyday decisions add up to something amazing”. I ran all my errands and felt so much better for just getting out of the house! I was inspired to go for a 2 mile run. I know that at least I did something to contribute to my health and weight, even if it was small. I feel so much better than if I had stayed in the house all day moping and eating chocolate!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
i fear failure, so for me it’s…
“What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?”
-Robert Schuller
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Bill Cosby has always been my idol, I have this quote posted literally everywhere I can find a place for it. Being able to laugh about it and just find joy in simply being alive has gotten me through losing my grandma (who raised me) a house fire, my dad’s denied parole hearings, my step-dad abandoning his 5 kids… at this point, throw it at me and I can take it with a smile on my face (which is why I tell myself this “fitness” journey I’m on is easy peasy!)
“You can turn painful situations around through laughter. If you can find humor in anything… you can survive it.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
“When you’re going through hell, keep going.”
Pasta looks scrumptious, btw : )
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
Whenever I am having negative self talk, be it about the imaginary muffin top I perceive myself as having or the one too many squares of chocolate straight from the package that I’m beating myself up over, I always put SOMEONE ELSE in my shoes. Yes, it’s the opposite of the old cliche. I stop myself in my tracks, though, and I think of what I would tell my friend, my mother or God forbid, one of my daughters if they told me they felt fat, worthless or like they needed to skip a meal. I think about how I would emphasize all the wonderful things I LOVE about them and how valuable they are in my life. I then try to be that kind and loving to myself and work even harder to believe it.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Wow, last chapter, congrats!!!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:27 pm
An especially lovely operation beautiful note!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
My favorite motivational thoughts/mantras are:
“The only way out is through” and “Be just as kind and forgiving of yourself as you are to others”
Both things I need to remember more often…
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:31 pm
My favorite: “Today I will be happier than a bird with a french fry” and there is a cute stamped picture of a bird. There is a shop with the poster on my street and I smile every time I run by
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:31 pm
There are so many for so many different reasons
If I am stressed- In two weeks this really won’t matter at all to me.
If I am tired- You are just tired.
If I am hitting a wall on a run- I just think about how good it feels to sweat!!!!
If I am feeling ‘not so pretty’- Look at where you started and how far you have come!!!
It’s all about pumping yourself up! You can’t rely on others to make you happy (all the time)!!!!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
“The best way out is always through”
I love your blog.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
OH thank you, I needed that message! After being robbed and dumped in the same weekend, it’s all I can do not to curl up in a ball and cry, but your message sure helps
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:45 pm
I am motivated by authors, poets, artists and musicians. Their brilliant creativity and beautiful words inspire others– nothing is ‘original’.. We are all influenced by someone else. However, a quote written by Maya Hornbacher wrote:
“There is never a sudden revelation, a complete and tidy explanation for why it happened, or why it ends, or why or who you are. You want one and I want one, but there isn’t one. It comes in bits and pieces, and you stitch them together wherever they fit, and when you are done you hold yourself up, and still there are holes and you are a rag doll, invented, imperfect. And yet you are all that you have, so you must be enough. There is no other way.”
And it’s true.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
When I’m feeling down or anxious about ANYTHING, I ask myself, “Tammy, what REALLY matters most in this life?” And then I answer myself, “My loving husband, my sweet, unconditionally loving pets, my family and friends, and God.” Then I smile and the anxiety melts away, because no matter what happens, I already have all of those precious joys in my life.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 5:53 pm
Two things I always tell myself: “Ad astra per alia porci” which means “To the stars on the wings of a pig.” Sometimes I let fear get in the way of my decisions, and I have to constantly remind myself that I am possible of anything!
The other: “Success it the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm.” This keeps me from being scared of failure, or letting failure get the best of me. Those who are successful are able to pick themselves up from their failures, learn from them, and move on.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:03 pm
sometimes, touchy feely quotes p!ss me off; just not my style. Sometimes I just need it given to me straight.It might not be the most “positive” but it def works; such as the poster I saw on my marathon that said “run, bast@rd, run!” Another one I like is “Just shut up and do something about it”, or “Show (fill in the blank) who’s boss!” I’m known for being too blunt so maybe this is why i like these messages, but, hey, to each their own, right?
Rock on
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Caitlin Reply:
December 9th, 2009 at 6:43 pm
haha i like blunt msgs too, that’s why my favorite running mantra is pain is temporary, quitting is forever.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
in fact, I think I need to bookmark this whole page, these are all so good
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
+ “You are all that you have, so you must be enough. There is no other way” (this is from author Marya Hornbacher).
+ “Your power is beyond your comprehension. You can do anything.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
7 miles – you kick butt!
My second giveaway ends tomorrow – enter! http://katiechangesforkatie.blogspot.com/
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:33 pm
I tell myself:
You are WORTH it!
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
My mantra is “capable, confident, and in control.” When I’m feeling super anxious about grad school, work, family, etc. it totally helps. My exercise mantra tends to be “peace, love.” I say “peace” on the inhale and “love” on the exhale. The thought is that if I am full of peace I’m more equipped to spread love. A little cheesy and hippy chick, but it works for me.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 6:57 pm
My favorite motivational phrase is, “You’ve got this!” I used it several times during today’s run.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I have a couple that I use when feeling unmotivated to go for my run or exercise…
“Just work hard for the next hour, that’s all you have to do, then the rest of the day you’ll be pretty sedentary and mostly sitting on your butt.”
or if I am struggling during a workout…
“A [fill in the blank with your last name] never quits.”
or here’s one my husband (a coach/trainer) often uses…
“It’s about the work, you’ve got to do the work to succeed…” and
“The will to win is not as great as the will to train.” (this one’s actually from an elite runner)
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
i got a yogi tea bag message that said “know that whatever you are doing is the most beautiful thing.”
I was so inspired by it that i taped to to my computer and now i look at it every single day.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
yess we certainly do love your yogurt!
yummy lookin lunch
jenna
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 7:44 pm
I have this written on my full-length mirror, so I look at it multiple times a day: “Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson. It’s my #2 favorite quote, and I legitimately look myself in the eyes and say it every day. LOVE it.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
I am transforming into who I want to become. I am transformed.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
I was never the best runner back in high school until one day my track coach, a former Olympic athlete told me that I was “Destined for greatness”. This day that she said this, and these words that she said, have been etched in my head ever since – they’re even engraved on my iPod! I repeat this mantra to myself not only when I’m pushing hard to train for my first marathon, but also when things get a little rough in day-to-day life; from fitness, to work, to relationships…should we not all aim for greatness?
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
I like “Go human go!”, the Quaker Oats slogan. I say it to myself as I’m tackling a big hill on a run
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:07 pm
I love this poem:
“Sometimes”
Sheenagh Pugh
Sometimes things don’t go, after all,
from bad to worse. Some years, muscadel
faces down frost; green thrives; the crops don’t fail.
Sometimes a man aims high, and all goes well.
A people sometimes will step back from war,
elect an honest man, decide they care
enough, that they can’t leave some stranger poor.
Some men become what they were born for.
Sometimes our best intentions do not go
amiss; sometimes we do as we meant to.
The sun will sometimes melt a field of sorrow
that seemed hard frozen; may it happen for you.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Whenever I need a pick me up or to get through something tough I just tell myself – One foot in front of the other. It helps a lot when running, but it helps in everyday life as well, concentrate on the small, just take another step.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Ah, my favs are “que sera, sera” (whatever will be, will be) and a quote said by Scarlet O’Hara from Gone With the Wind: “After all, tomorrow is another day.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:40 pm
theres a crossing guard across the street from me who jogs in place and dances to herself and sings rlly beautiful opera. i never walk past her tho bc i cross the street to high school right in front of school. one morning i crossed first and then walked the straight blocks to school – as she crossed me she said, do your best today honey. i thought about that a lot that day bc i know i have amazing potential (i am very bright and talented) but i am usually content to do well without applying myself. thats not my best, though. that day i thought to myself: do your best, do your best. it meant a lot to me.
another quote (lots of peer pressure in school): be yourself, the world worships the original. or, be yourself, everyone else is already taken.
one more: one day your life will flash before your eyes. make sure its worth watching.
and of course, this too shall pass.
peace
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
I love the Gatorade ad that says You have two choices you can either throw in the towel or use it to wipe the sweat off your face.
I also love to tell myself, “You’ve come this far and you can go so much further.”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
What I always tell myself is “Keep going the race isn’t over!”
and
“Don’t give up”
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 9:29 pm
i got this from a quote site and it’s posted in my bedroom and in my locker at school:
I am bigger than my concerns and worries, I can choose to be unstoppable, each day I am getting stronger, I can do anything.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 9:36 pm
“Let every day be worthy of fireworks and celebration” – Deena Kastor. And during some really tough runs or difficult situations: I feel good. I feel great. I feel wonderful. (from the movie, What About Bob?)
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
Just wrote a blog about this – From the sunglass song: “Sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind…the race is long, and in the end, it’s only with yourself”.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
I tell myself to “Just be the best you can be. You can do it.” or, “Just do the best you can.” Kind of boring, but they work for me.
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on Dec 9th, 2009 at 11:07 pm
Wow! I’m surprised there are so many good quotes out there. I should make my own list. I love gone with the wind so Scarlette’s charm has always been a favorite, “I can’t think about that right now. If I do, I’ll go crazy. I’ll think about that tomorrow.” Oh and this the line from a song my dad used to play me on his guitar, “But it’s all right now, I learned my lesson well. You see, ya can’t please everyone, so ya got to please yourself.”
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 12:00 am
I once got a fortune in a fortune cookie (weird because I don’t even like fortune cookies) that says “No need to worry, you will always have everything that you need.” It’s taped to my mirror.
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 9:10 am
One that I use quite often when I learned from my coworker who regularly does marathons and Ironmans. Shortly before my first race, a 10K, I told her that I wished it was a 5K because I wasn’t sure I was ready for the full distance. She looked at me with a deadpan stare and said “Not with that loser attitude!” It ends up that when she feel that she can’t do a distance, her fiance tells her this and it makes her so mad, she keeps going. And let me tell you, it works! I’ve said this to myself more than a few times– running and in general life. It makes me smile and gives me the pep to keep going.
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 10:11 am
i can thank kanye for mine:
“work it, make it, do it, makes us harder, better, faster, stronger”
OR
“what is done is done. don’t dwell on the past – work on making the future be the best that is yet to come
”
I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE BOOK!!!!
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 10:36 am
I’m late to the party but here are a few of my faves:
“All you have to do is breathe.”
“Be yourself, everyone else is already taken.”
“The hardest decisions have the most satisfying results.”
“When the world says, ‘Give up,’ Hope whispers, ‘Try it one more time.’”
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 10:46 am
my current mantra:
We make ourselves miserable or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same.
I’m living by it every day!
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 11:27 am
“Breakdown…Breakthrough”
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 11:32 am
This quote has gotten me through for the last 5 years, I live by it!
Do one thing every day that scares you.
Eleanor Roosevelt
US diplomat & reformer (1884 – 1962)
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 12:27 pm
“Sometimes it’s not about preventing disaster but becoming strong enough to live through it”. This is one of my favorites when life gets stressful
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Being a college student, I have found one common belief that is dangerously contagious and you can smell it all over campus; the desperation that girls feel- they need a boyfriend to determine their own self value. Through this process, not only do they hurt themselves by being so attached to the male species but also can’t love themselves if they are not in a relationship. So my “inspirational quotation” would be:
“Your worth does not lie in a man.
Your beauty lies WITHIN YOU, inside and out, and all around.
Love yourself more than you can love anyone else because,
YOU ARE WORTHY!”
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on Dec 10th, 2009 at 5:20 pm
I think it’s so easy to get caught up in the harder times, and sometimes they may outweigh the good but taking a deep breath and repeating “This too shall pass..” really helps. You have bad days, you have good days and just knowing that the hard times are going to get better really helps.
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