My Pearls? To Pigs? Nah...

 

Today's "Song Day" Selection is:  India Arie's "There's Hope" Because I truly believe that even a smile is charity and it cost absolutely nothing to give! *Smile :-)

All Smiles!!

Now what was that about pearls and pigs?......


"Don't give your pearls to Pigs!" ..... I'm listening, brow furrowed, eyes slightly squinted in mild confusion. I have the slightest clue what she means and she can tell, lol. She, being my gracefully past 45 year old  co-worker. She goes on to explain and this is what I took from her explanation..... 

You have great things to give, of yourself I mean. You have goodness deep inside that is special and when you share it, it's like giving the best of you to others. "Pearls" represents just that; the best of you.  "Pigs" are people who will take the best of what you offer them and drag...it...through...the...MUD!! Yes, people who have no appreciation for the hard work you've put in, the love you put in, the THOUGHT you put in or the energy you put in..to WHATEVER!! We've all seen the very cliche movie scene...woman goes through immense planning for boyfriends surprise party...boyfriend comes in, feigns surprise and happiness, later breaks up with said woman at the end of the night...PIG!! Another example... YOU work very hard at your job, putting in extra hours, doing your best work all for a boss who turns around and promotes the coworker who is less than sub-par!!...PIG, again.

Even a Smile is Charity!!

 Now this is not to say that the "pigs" in these examples are bad people, it just means they have zero appreciation for the best of you...so don't give it to them!! You know your worth, your capability, your intentions...give those intangibles efforts to those around you who will say "Thank You for what you do" or "I appreciate you" or "I can tell you worked hard on this" or...I could go on....you fill in the blanks.

It is a terrible feeling to put your all into something, your love into something, your sweat into something only to have someone take it, look at it, then toss it over their shoulder as if were trash!! (this goes for relationships too, ya dig?) Ever had that happen!? If so, you made the mistake once...don't let it happen again. You know the saying: "fool me once, shame on you! Fool me twice...no ma'am, once is ENOUGH!" ;-)
  

The "Positivity Point": Giving the best of you takes energy. Makes sure when you give it, it's well spent and for those who are well deserving :-) 

Have a different take on this quote?? Share it in the comment box :-)

Until another time good people...

BE Great, BE Blessed, BE Positive and ... BE Careful who you give your Pearls to!!

Gemini Ladyy
Instagram: @gemini_ladyy
Twitter: @liberateyoself

Pole Positivity

 Great, Excited Greetings folks! Here in lies the story, that brought me to my liberation......


"I'm not a stripper....I work in corporate America" says the tall woman standing in front of the group of us at my friends' pole dance bachelorette party last May. We were all thinking it, wondering, "hmm, if she teaches pole dance she MUST be a stripper, right?"  Wrong. The words "pole dance" and "stripper" are not synonymous. I know, I know that's probably the first thing you think when you hear "pole dance" but there's a little more to it....actually there's a lot more to it.

But let me finish my little story. So, the instructor goes on to demonstrate a pole dance for us. We cheered and hollered as she twirled, flipped and rolled on the pole. By the time she finished, we were all anxious to have our turn trying this new stuff!! After seeing her perform though, I KNEW this was something I HAD to do again. So, I signed up for an 8 week series and well, I've been addicted ever since!!

I'm curious...

Have you ever happened upon an activity and completely but unexpectedly fell in love with it? And then found that that activity helped bring together all your awesomeness!? It could be running, swimming, knitting, blogging, drawing, whatever....THAT is what pole fitness did for me!! It's toned my arms, legs and abs, upped my stamina and increased my over all feeling of health and well being! My self-confidence has been boosted (can't tell me nothin') and for once in my 28 years of life, I'M FEELING LIBERATED!! (not that I was oppressed or anything, lol) Expressing myself through dance was a sort of missing puzzle piece in my life...I'm so glad I found it! Have you found that puzzle piece?

That's me at the top of the Pole!! Freedom!!

 The "Positivity Point" of this story is: If you haven't, you've got to find that piece!! All of us have a purpose on this Earth. You never know what activities will bring you closer to finding your purpose!! But once you find it, there is true liberation when you allow yourself to express it!! It just so happens that pole fitness is what opened me up to express mine!
 
 I do pole fitness for me. Not for anyone else. I do it because I love it and because it does my body good. It is the physical challenge that I needed in life. I have to admit it sounds kind of funny to claim that pole fitness changed my life, but...I guess it did :-) As a bonus, I've met an amazing group of women, from doctors to teachers to designers who all share a love for this wonderful activity!

I call this"Clothed Poling"....Yea, I like the sound of that! I think I'll try some more clothed poling pictures!!

Perhaps I'll be judged after this, who knows!? That I cannot control. If I can help change a few peoples minds about pole fitness, that's great! But really I know those that want to see it for what it is will, and those that don't, won't :-) And to each his own. Here's some info anyway...

A Little about Pole Fitness:

• In pole fitness classes you learn spins and tricks on and off the pole.
• These classes will leave your arms-a-achin'! It takes your biceps, triceps and flyceps (I made that up, hehe!) to lift your body off the ground!
• You can increase your flexibility. Much like ballet, pole fitness looks best with long lines, pointed toes and an arched back. Get bendy!!
• You get in tune with your body! Pole fitness forces you to explore ways to dance you may not have done before...unless you're a dancer of course ;-)
• Lots of strengthening exercises are required... Abs, arms, legs...all of it!!! 

In all, pole fitness requires strength, stamina and dedication. Many professional women are taking part in this activity, which is becoming less taboo everyday. So, if you have some preconceived notions about pole fitness, that's understandable, BUT I encourage you to ask someone who does it, about it! BETTER YET I encourage you to try it. It's the most fun I've had in years!! ;-)

As you know I love to give shout outs. I cannot tell my pole fitness story without mentioning the following ladies. They've left lasting impressions on me (and others I'm certain) and I am forever grateful for what they've shared and are still sharing with me...

Meet Eva, she was my very first pole fitness instructor!! Last June I registered for her Level 1 class and couldn't wait to get started! Simply put, she's amazing. She was always encouraging, supportive and full of humor and tolerance for my random and constant emails to her! Keep scrolling, you get to see a pole dance performance by Eva below ;-)

Corrie, this lovely lady is the reason I began pole fitness. Yup, she was the woman from the beginning of my story and my level 4 instructor. She makes pole fitness look absolutely effortless! As an instructor she has the ability to push yet encourage the heck out of you at the same darn time!!!

And Liz...oh Liz!! My current level 6 instructor. This woman exudes class but is tough as nails when it comes to the pole! Her dancing is beautiful, fluid and sultry!! She is currently teaching me some incredibly complex moves, while steadily pushing me...no seriously..will literally push my body up the pole... and I love it!
 

Thank You ladies for shining your light!! I was blind, but now I SEE!! 

As promised, here's a video of Eva performing. The epitome of grace and strength...


Watch Eva's beautiful performance, Here!





Soooo, do you want to try it!?? If you're in Atlanta, shoot me an email: empowered2dance@gmail.com and join one of my classes!! 

Leave a comment, I love a good chat! Until another time good people...

BE Blessed, BE Positive, BE Great....and GET Fit...Pole Fit ;)

Gemini Ladyy

Instagram: @gemini_ladyy 

Twitter: @liberateyoself    

Loving You, is Easy 'Cause You're Beautiful...

Great Greetings All!
Remember that song Loving You by Minnie Ripperton? She was talking about her lover. That's not what I'M talking about though....I'm talking about YOU LOVING YOU!!

When I saw this quote by Iyanla, a little something stirred inside of me. I've definitely had times where I wondered what someone thought of me, how they felt about me or if they liked me or not. Those darn thoughts can be very draining and will consume parts of your mind and time that could be better used elsewhere!! 


You are your most valuable asset. Investing in you and loving YOU is where you'll find Liberation from what others may think! Know that you have been blessed individually and that you have a resposibility to cultivate and share those blessings/talents, regardless of what others may think! And of course we're not talking about the people in your life who truly love you, they do matter!  :-) 


People will believe what they WANT to believe, whether it's the truth or not. You cannot control what others think of you. So the next time you're wondering what someone might think about something you've said or done.... check your intentions (because I believe our actions are judged by them), be honest with yourself, forgive yourself if need be, let those answers guide you to your next actions, then let it go.


The people who don't like you, have every right not to. They're entitled to their feelings and so are you! You're better off giving them their "hate space" and moving on with your life....Let Your Haters Be FORGOTTEN, remember?! (that's a previous blog post by the way, lol)


Again, you are an awesome asset to yourself and once that's figured out, you'll be an even awesomer (yes, I make up words) asset to those around you!! So get to figuring! We need the best you! ;-)
Alrighty, I'm done for now! Have a BLESSED and Self-Loving day folks!!

BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed and.... LOVE YOU! (it's easy 'cause you're beautifulllll)


Gemini Ladyy

I Need Me (You Need You)

Something to remind yourself when you're running out the list of people or obligations that need you. As much as your job, family, pets need you, you're no good to any of them if you don't take care of yourself! It's ok to put yourself first so that you're better for everything/one else!!! Take care of YOU!!!
BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed..... And take a break!!
Gemini Ladyy

Show Some Love!

As women, let's acknowledge each other for our Greatness!!! We are wonderful creatures in all of our complexity!!! Make someone's day and share this photo with them!! :-) 

Who says we have to be catty!? Let's see how much light and love we can spread!
#followthepositivity
BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed....and Show Some Love!
Happy Women's History Month!
Gemini Ladyy

I Am Woman!! Hear Me....Whisper?

Greetings Good People!! First let me apologize for having not posted in over a week! Yikes!! I was traveling and a little under the weather but I'm great now, thank God!!

Today's Song Day Selections are:

"Unwritten" by Natasha Beddingfield




"When You've Been Blessed" by Patti Labelle

On to business, It's Women's History Month!!! All month long people are recognizing women from history and present who have done or are doing extraordinary things!! I've been enjoying all the posts via social media, haven't you? :-)



With all this positive feminine energy going around, I can't help but think of that catchy saying: "I am Woman, Hear Me ROAR!!".....Only I kept thinking, which led to this thought: Not all of us ROAR. Some women do indeed lead with bold actions and decisions. They lead by pushing the envelope and fighting hard, loud and with fearless abandon. No holds barred, ready to fight if need be (sometimes literally) and stand up for what's right despite what may happen in return!! I love it!! But you also have women who lead quietly; they whisper. These women draw people to them, like bees to honey. Their strong demeanor holds presence and poise yet demands respect. I love how varied we can be as women. I love that what one woman can accomplish, so can another, but may do so by completely different measures!! How AWESOME are we!?

Whispering can be just as good as roaring. We can learn lots from one another...those of us who roar could learn to whisper a little and those of us who whisper could learn to roar every now and then. There's much good to be done we when can appreciate what WE have but also acknowledge the great in others! Here's the big picture: We all have our strengths but they are in different areas and may not look the same. Doesn't make it any less...strong! So, if you don't ROAR, it's ok...work your WHISPER :-)

So, who can you celebrate in your everyday life that, ROARS or WHISPERS? I know plenty of women in both of these categories and I admire them all!! I congratulate them and I appreciate them for simply BEING who they are! Whether quietly or loudly...

Women get the reputation of being catty. No doubt this is real sometimes. But since we're in Liberate Yourself land and the focus here is positivity, let's do this.....You ready?

Think of 5 ladies you admire, for whatever reason. They could be family, friend or acquaintance!! I want you to let them know. I want you to be unabashedly honest about what you like about them!! Send it in a text, email, Facebook message, Tweet, Instagram Post or A PHONE CALL (Gasp, what's that??). I guarantee, you will absolutely make some woman's day, you will bring a smile to her face, you will be sending out into the universe energetic vibes that will no doubt make their way back to you!!! You will be spreading love and light and throwing shade at the reputation of cattiness!! Go ahead, do it, you know you want to! (I think we need to!) :-)

Tomorrow morning (Monday, March 11th, 2013) I'm on a mission to spread an outpouring of feminine positive energy!! Let's recognize each other for being who we are... Won't you join me!!??

 Here's how WE do it:
I will post a picture via, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, that simply acknowledges and expresses appreciation. All you have to do is:

A.) Repost and Tag the women you want to recognize! As few or many as you like!
B.) On INSTAGRAM you are welcomed to tag them directly on my post OR repost yourself and
C.) If YOU are tagged, keep the good karma going and tag someone else!! 
D.) Be sure to Hashtag #followthepositivity

I'm super excited about this and feeling the good vibrations already!

Who will be the first woman I Tag???..... So many awesome options!! ;-)

Until next time...

BE Great, BE Positive BE Blessed ..... and Spread some light!! 
Happy Women's History Month!!


In case you were wondering if I ROAR or WHISPER.... I'm a Gemini so I do both, lol

Gemini Ladyy
instagram: @gemini_ladyy
twitter: @liberateyoself

I Have a Confession...

You know, blogging about positivity (for two whole weeks!!) has been an eye opening experience. It has made me question myself, then push myself for some honest answers. The latest question: Are you ready to open up?...that's what I asked myself. I am. But I do so knowing that I AM NOT ALONE in my struggles and that being determined to be POSITIVE will get me through. And when (not if) some of you relate to my words, it's ok to raise your hand, drop your head, close your eyes and say, "Amen"...so here's my confession....

I'm a comfort eater.....I know you're probably thinking, "who doesn't eat for comfort?" but there's more to it. I love cookies. I absolutely adore brownies (with ice cream), I could eat a whole package of gummi bears in minutes (darn chewy goodness)!! I heart chips and salsa, fried chicken, fried fish, chocolate chip cookies (I'd sleep with them if I could) and the list goes on....and ....on. I was over doing it and I was ashamed. Let me explain...

Life is very busy for me. I have 3 children, married, in school full time, work full time, I make it a POINT to enjoy myself and I exercise. That's a lot!! There are times when it feels like too much. I get stressed out or overwhelmed then I turn to food. Food has been my confidante and constant support, but you'd never know it. I'm what folks would call a "skinny girl". I'm the one you'd look at and say "oh you can afford to eat those cookies, you're thin!", But I can't because all the while I'm hurting inside (goodness this is getting deep!) I suffered because of the feelings that would ensue after eating all that crap, knowing it wasn't good for me. I know it isn't benefiting me outside of the immediate gratification, that is gone after I swallow. I'm not alone am I? You know what I'm talking about, right? Eating two whole rows of girl scout cookies, then REGRETTING that you did it. Mindless behavior.

I was hurting because, with every cookie I ate, I felt bad about it. But I continued to eat more. With every Kit Kat (king size at that) that I consumed, my guilt-o-meter would climb a little more. We aren't talking every once in a while here (that wouldn't be so bad), I'm talking every single day, no discretion, guilt building, self-love waning and ..... ACNE increasing!!! I am 4 months away from turning 29 and I will be darned if I'm going to fight break outs like I did as a teenager! This had to stop! And it did.

Alright this post might be lengthy.... But it's worth it, so read on...

You see, I'm at a point in life where I'm truly loving me; all of me. The way I was eating did not match up with how I wanted to ultimately feel. The bottom line is this, the more I ate crap the more I felt like crap, both physically and emotionally. I deserve better than that!! I deserve to be treated with respect and love, but I must, MUST treat myself with respect and love first! I was disrespecting the body God gave me by feeding it junk then feeling terrible about it! (You sayin' Amen yet?)

Some of us may eat and struggle with weight. Some of us may eat and struggle with break-outs, SOME of us may struggle with both, larger health issues or anything else in between!!! You are the only one who can take care of your body. So, do it...please. 

I know some of you reading this may eat unhealthy and don't have a huge problem with it. That's fine. But if you are eating crap AND you feel like crap because of it? It's time to make a change. Do you want to change? If so, Liberate Yourself and **Love yourself enough to be healthy....

Here's How I Did It:

45 DAYS ~~ NO FRIED FOODS and NO PROCESSED SUGAR CHALLENGE! 1/14 - 2/27/2013

Plan:
"Fail to plan, and you plan to Fail" I was addicted to sugar. So, I couldn't just stop cold turkey and not have a well  thought out plan for success. Thankfully, through my very best friend (Hey Sha!) I made the acquaintance of +Ajeenah Abdul , Yoga Instructor and Health Coach. She asked me a ton of questions that helped me become aware of why  I ate like I did. We devised a plan to replace my sweets and include supplements to give me energy and keep me going! Hence, the 45 Day Challenge. This challenge is ALL ABOUT breaking bad habits and creating new, better ones!!! The best part? You cater it to what YOU NEED to give up :-)

Action:
I am determined to see some changes in my skin and in my isolated moods after eating.. To be even more honest, I was very happy until the few minutes after I ate some fried wings or a snickers bar. Those moments would turn into tens of minutes of self deprecating thoughts. "why did you eat that" "you know it isn't good for you" "you want to eat healthy" "how are you going to make up for what you just ate?" Those thoughts would be very low points of my day, multiply that by the amount of junk food servings I ate per day, and you come up with a lot of time spent downing myself. Sooooo not my style and soooo not positive!!!

Support:
My friends and family were a great support to me. I Facebooked, Tweeted and Instagram'd my progress and low points when I needed some encouragement. Doing this sort of challenge alone is possible, but it helps very much to have some company along the way. Try to think of some friends or family members that may want to join you in changing their eating habits. That way you can support and encourage each other along :-) And offer some butt-kicking if you start to feel weak!

Results:
I'm going to go ahead and pat myself on the back now. I'm at the end of my challenge!!! Not once did I cheat!! I've proven to myself how disciplined I can be... I am so proud of myself! My skin has cleared tremendously (you'll just have to take my word for that, no pics) and I am free from the thoughts that taunted me after I ate the junk food. I feel ten times better and more energized now that I eliminated the "crap from my diet!! Do I still crave cookies? Yes, but I know I'll be fine in fact, I'll be GREAT without them! I'm going forwards from here. I'm not turning back!!!

In all, I realized my love affair with sweets and fried foods was unrequited. It gave me nothing but heartache in return. I will not treat myself that way. I will be liberated  from feeling like the crap that I consumed was benefiting me. And I'm still a comfort eater, just eating healthier dishes. And oh what a liberating feeling that is...

Below are pictures of some wonderful dishes I made that left me comforted but most importantly feeling very good after eating them and not miserable ;-) If you'd like to have the recipes, Just let me know in the comment box and I'll be glad to share!!

If you want to change your eating habits, develop a health plan or do a 45 Day Challenge yourself, Contact me today (404) 957 8941 or empowered2dance@gmail.com

   **A little literature support!! I cant wait to get started reading this book by Basheerah Ahmad, Fitness Expert!!! (Thanks Amazon!) 50 Affirmations to Your Best Life!

My Goodness!! This supplement has been great!! Greens Powder gives energy, detoxifies AND supplies you with 5 + servings of your daily fruit and veggie requirements! Good Stuff!! This what ULTIMATELY helped me kick my sugar addiction! www.empoweredandhealthy.myitworks.com

In addition to the Greens Powder, I took these supplements each day! The garlic kills bacteria (acne causer), Cod Liver oil caps support overall immune function and the Vitamin C, has B vitamins as well, helps with stress, gives energy and supports immune function also!

 And now for the FOOD!!! Yum!! ;-)

Filling for Oven Baked Egg Rolls: Chicken Breast, Cabbage, Carrots & Onions.  Good as a side dish by itself too!

Oven-"Fried' (but not really) Flounder (This was HEAVENLY!!)

Stir Fried Brown Rice!!

Tri-Color Penne w/ Roasted Chicken Breast, Shrimp in Lemon Herb Sauce!! One of those dishes you create in your head and it turns out waaay better than you expected!!

Oven-Baked Egg Rolls!!! Hit the SPOT because I REALLY wanted Chinese food on this day!!

Want a recipe? Let me Know!

 BE Great, BE Positive , BE Blessed .....and BE Healthy

Gemini Ladyy

 #followthepositivity

Instagram: @gemini_ladyy

Twitter: @liberateyoself

Sweet and Simple...

Today's post is short, super short, because I have a couple big ones coming for you this week!! Can't wait to share, and I know you can't wait to read! ( I certainly HOPE that's the case!) ;-)

Sunday Song-Day Selection:

Jill Scott - Golden
http://youtu.be/DQdmrFrM5lE 


Enjoy and I'll be writing to you soon...

BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed

Gemini Ladyy 

Spread the Laughs!!!

I shamelessly watch America's Funniest Videos, with my children! Why is it that people be frightened is so funny!!??

Watch "★ 100 scared people part 1 - Scary AFV Video Clips #26 - America's Funniest Home Videos part 577" on YouTube

BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed

Gemini Ladyy ... #followthepositivity

Need a GOOD LAUGH!!??? Watch THIS!!

This video has always made me laugh! Hilarious and cute!!!

Watch "Boy Sings In Church Choir" on YouTube

BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed

And laugh.....

Gemini Ladyy

Need a Smile?? Watch this!!!

Watch "Baby Laughing Hysterically at Ripping Paper (Original)" on YouTube
BE Great, BE Positive, BE Blessed

Gemini Ladyy

Everything is just PERFECT!! Lies!!

Yup. EVERYTHING is perfect in my life. Great family, great job, great social life, great health.....great everything. Everyday is like smiles and sunshine all the time and I am seldom upset!!...... Are you super annoyed yet??? If I were reading that, I would be!! While I am a true optimist, I am also a realist. Nothing is perfect. EVEN if it seems that way, it isn't. (grass is always greener, type of talk). I try every day to perfect the, what seems like, hundreds of things I have to do knowing I'll never achieve it, perfection that is, but that's ok! I am determined to put forth my best work and be the best I can be. There are days when I wake up and just don't feel like it. I'd rather crawl back in bed until I'm good and ready to get up and face the world. But I can't do that. I have responsibilities, work, school, children....so I start talking to myself. It's not as crazy as it sounds, we all do it, just maybe not consciously. "Get up Najwa. Find inspiration Najwa. Smile Najwa." Then sometimes the conversation sounds like this, "I really don't care. Eff it. I don't feel good. I'd rather be home. blah, blah, blah." When I'm having the latter conversation with myself, I know I'm headed toward a bad day. Then it's decision time. I can, A.) Decide to do my best to find happiness in the day ahead or B.) Allow myself to have the bad day BUT this comes with the agreement (with myself) to make tomorrow AWESOME. I'll share with you how I do that. :-).....

 Early in my adult life, experiences I had taught me that, my happiness came from within and was A CHOICE on my behalf. Deep, right!? No one or nothing could bring me the type of unfiltered happiness I longed for (and deserved). That was up to me. Since then, it's been my mission to not succumb to negative thoughts (and I've had some very low points in life), and not allow others to steal what they had no right to and to ultimately BE HAPPY.  Here's how I do it:

Gemini Ladyy's 7 ways to "BE" Happy:

1.) Count every blessing - start small: I'm alive, I can see, I can hear gradually increase... I have a home, I have great friends/family, I have a job.... Continue until you get tired. You will see how very much you have to be thankful for. Then think how miserable you'd REALLY be if you didn't have those things!

2.) Pray/Meditate - to whomever you recognize as the "master/creator" of this here universe! Take time to connect with your spiritual side. Play some soft music or none at all. Ask for patience, clarity, strength, insight...whatever it is, ask for it...than expect to receive it.

3.) Smile - Smiling is a form of charity to the receiver. A smile can make someones day!! I love to smile at random people!! Just try it and see how you feel. And I mean a real smile, not a half smirk/grin that could be kind of maybe confused for a grimace. Show some Teeth =D

4.) Do good deeds...and get others to as well - Find some type of activity outside of yourself that involves giving to those who are less fortunate than you. Perhaps a women's shelter that needs donations or maybe find an organization that feeds the hungry weekly and make a dish to serve. Anything!! Doing good deeds keeps you connected to world around and not stuck in your own. :-)

5.) Choose Happiness! - It is a CHOICE. Not something that comes with another person or thing. It is a conscious decision made by you in any given moment. When you CHOOSE happiness you push aside negativity and are taking control of the reigns!

6.) Share/Ask for help - "No Man is an Island Unto Himself" It is OK TO BE WEAK sometimes, because we all are. So ask for help or a listening ear from someone you know cares about you. After you've vented or talked it out...make it your business to be GREAT!!! 

7.) Find something you love, really, really love and DO IT!! Wait for it..... O...M...G!!! Lol! When I found my "something", which I will share with you at a later date, it was like all my puzzle pieces came together. The dots of my mental, emotional and physical self all connected and.... well I experienced serious happiness. ;-)

BONUS: Yet Most important, BE YOU!! You are created to be great in you own special way. We need what you have to offer. Trust me, somebody does. So be youR best self...SPREAD LIGHT!!!

Now.... 

Do you believe in the Law of Attraction?? If you do, practicing the above actions can bring into your universe much positivity and happiness....because that's what you putting out! Ooooooooh!!! Here's a link to a guide to applying the "Law of Attraction": 

http://www.wikihow.com/Use-the-Law-of-Attraction 

Follow the Positivity - Ok, let me explain what I truly mean by this!! Follow the positivity is a phrase I've coined that is simple. Continue along the path of all that is positive. Is something you're doing getting great results? Keep It Up!! See someone doing good works?? Ask them about it!!! When you see positivity, follow it, then engage it!!! I honestly think this will encourage others to continue their good works and celebrate them as well!!

 Song-Day Selections:
If You're Going Through Hell by Rodney Atkins ( Thanks Neat1 for the suggestion)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNCIZi2ziYM

Brand New Me by Alicia Keys (I'm a fanatic)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxGd1NG4aRI

So, again I posted videos with lyrics so you can read the message!! Let me know what you prefer :-) And don't forget to send me song suggestion!!

Your Turn To Share!!! How do you get happy!!???

BE Positive, BE great, BE blessed,

Gemini Ladyy 

 

Prelude to Another Post.....Count Your Blessings!

That. Is. All..... For now :-)

Be DOPE!

*Note: the word Dope is being hyper-used in the following post. 

Being DOPE starts by looking in the mirror and saying, "I'm Dope". Then think of all the reasons you have to pat yourself on the back. If you're having a hard time, you may need to get to work doing dope things!!You can do this by finding something you're very good at and doing it! That varies per person so be creative and honestly...just be you; that's a GREAT place to start!! Once you claim your dopeness, let your physical presentation reflect that. Your personal style says a lot about you. Be sure that it says what YOU WANT!!:-)

Ok, on to the pretty red elephant in the room...It's Valentine's Day!! How are you spending it?? With a special someone, with no one or with yourself??!! I 'll make this quick in case you have hot plans for tonight.... I'm learning to love me. I'm learning that, eh hem (Whitney Houston voice) "The greatest love of allllll, is easy to achieeeeve....learning to love yourself, it is the greatest LOVE of alllll!!"

 Yes, indeed. So, I'm taking care of my body, I'm thinking positive thoughts and I'm reinforcing it outwardly; that's a clever way to say...I've been shopping. The pictures below are the latest items I bought for myself that made me feel loved, by me. They make me feel pretty DOPE!!

-The mug says: "I Love You"... because I love me.
-The shirt says: "You'll never find a girl who is more AWESOME than ME" Which is debatable because I know some really awesome ladies, but I digress..
-The oxfords, well the oxfords are just pretty dope, don't you think??!! 

Now I understand this day may not be "happy" for everyone. If it isn't don't fret. Work on finding true love within, then project that, THEN watch what you attract!

If you're madly in love with someone on this day. Show it...but not just today. Do it next week too and then again the following day, then two days after that, then..... get it?? Don't let this be the only day you show how much you care :-)

....told you it'd be quick ;-)

BE positive, BE great, BE blessed and ...... BE DOPE!!

Gemini Ladyy

Fill in the blank: "I'm Dope because..." leave it in the comment box!! xoxo :-)

Let Your Haters Be...FORGOTTEN!!

 Great Greetings Folks,

We're all getting ready for the week ahead I'm sure. Sunday is a great day to set the tone for the work week and I've got just the thing to help do it!!! Every Sunday will be Song-Day here in Liberate Yourself land!!! Aren't you completely blown away by the originality of that title!!!??? (Hehehe!) Anyway, each Sunday, along with my post I will share TWO SONGS that are uplifting, encouraging, inspiring, kick-ass...you get the picture. These songs are meant to put a little pep in you step or some swag in your handbag!! Know any songs like that?? If so, share them as suggestions in the comment box!! I would love to hear some of the songs that just...just... JUST MAKE YOU WANNA CHANGE THE WORLD!!!! Or at least change yourself!! ;-)) So, please share.

Without Further ado, hear is today's post:


"Just keep going and don't look back
  And look forward from where you're at
 There's some jealousy in your rear view
  Wave, hello, hello, hello"

T.I. - Hello (feat. Ceelo Green)

I love this song. The idea of smiling bright and waving hello at somebody who wants me to fail soothes my facetious side and makes me chuckle a little! I find very poignant the thought of leaving those who wish you no good, behind you... in your REAR VIEW!!! Pay them no mind, keep it moving forward, onwards and upwards!! Which leads me to who DOES deserves your attention...

How rich would you be if you had a dollar for every time you heard the line, "Let your haters be your motivators" A millionaire, right? Well, I venture to say, DON'T DO IT!! DON'T let your haters be your motivators!! Of course you can do whatever you like, but hear me out first!

How about counting your supporters? How about letting THEM be your motivators? Indulge me, take a second and think of the people in your life who truly believe in you and want to see you succeed. No seriously, think for a minute. Ok, do you have them in mind??...Now, keep THOSE people in the forefront as you consider the amazing things you plan to do; maybe, you've just published that book you've been working on for years...they cheered in your ear when you called them with the news. Or perhaps you completed your degree you've been busting your butt to acquire...they planned the graduation party. Meanwhile your haters are where? Who the heck cares!!!??? They are not the ones who deserve even an ounce of your thought and/or attention! Your supporters deserve to be your motivators, not some naysayer! (Tuh!)

Now, don't get me wrong, it would bring a satisfying smirk to my heart (and lips) to see someone cringe at my success, but it'd bring elation to my whole being to have someone rejoice in my success, with me....as if it were their own!!! That's special.. Remember the focus is positivity, right? ;-)

What it all boils down to is loving yourself enough to truly let go of those people and/or things that bring negativity into your life! Let them fade forever into the background of your past. How about "Let your haters...be forgotten"  and #followthepositivity

 For your viewing pleasure, I've posted videos that provide lyrics! Today's Song-Day selections are:

Hello - T.I. (Feat. Ceelo Green) 

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9FwmToG8eM

I Choose - India Arie (This used to be my ringtone :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKDShRdJ3d4


Don't forget to post some song suggestions!!


BE positive, BE great, BE blessed,

Gemini Ladyy
Instagram: @gemini_ladyy  Twitter: @liberateyoself

Follow the Positivity!

Round of APPLAUSE please!!! Here I am, a new blogger....wait, that's not so novel huh?? Well, welcome anyway to, "Liberate Yourself"; where you will find all things positive, inspirational stories, both my own and others, awesome quotes/photos all sprinkled with dry, sarcastic or corny humor but lots of love. This blog is mostly aimed at constant encouragement toward liberating and being your best self!! How will I do that you ask? I like to think that to whom much is given, much is required. I seem to always come across something or someone that inspires me, THEN I feel ridiculously compelled to share it! Fast forward...here..blogger...me...writing...you...reading...you get it. Here is where I allow myself to share with you the constant positive somethings that seem to always come my way, in hopes that someone else may benefit as well. (even if that only means a smile at your lips. A smile is charity you know ;)

  So if I may make my self vulnerable for just a second....

I've been afraid....really afraid of things going right. You read it correctly; a fear of SUCCESS. I've been afraid of what might happen if I truly realized my God given potential. I scare myself when I think of what I'm capable of..... this fear has kept me stagnant, it has kept me...right on the verge of greatness always teetering and never tottering...its time to totter. Posivitiy has always been my way and now I'm using it to get me to my destination. So, here goes nothing or everything, depending on how you look at it ;-)

Wooh!! Feels good to get that off my chest! I've realized that every single day is a gift somehow; in my constant search to receive those gifts, it seems this journey is much more fun and meaningful when shared with others. SO I've decidced to share it with YOU!! Along our life journey is love, pain, laughter, struggle, disappointment, triumphs and any other action emotions you can imagine. We all exeperience them right? I mean, who hasn't felt heartbreak or elation over one situation or another. The amazing thing is, we can unite a little, share a little or learn a little from one another! Feelings are hard things to share yet so LIBERATING when shared consciously. As I am encouraged, reminded and guided toward being my best self, I shall encourage you to do just the same! These post are bigger than me, they are US! As a blogger here's my promise to you:

 (*Left hand on my laptop, right hand in the air*)

*I promise to be positively positive, yet honest, candid and true with my posts.
*I promise to give credit where credit is due which may mean the mentioning of a name or two...or three ;-)
*I promise to BE greatness and when I experience my past habitual fears, I will aknowledge them...then send them on their merry way.
*I promise not to judge lest I be judged.
*And most importantly I promise not to be too lengthy, I think....

 As I share with you, please feel free to share with me. I love a good conversation

Follow me here:
 Instagram @gemini_ladyy, twitter @liberateyoself

 WHENEVER you feel LOVE, EXCITEMENT, HAPPINESS, JOY, POSITIVITY IN ANY FORM....TAG #followthepositivity and I'LL gladly repost!!! Don't be afraid to shine your light and share your happiness with others. I think THAT makes the world go 'round!

BE positive, BE great, BE blessed,

Gemini Ladyy