Chapter 1: A Week of Reflection

This past week was quite an intriguing one. Although it felt relatively calm compared to others, it was still filled with highs and lows, bringing with it some challenging truths. One highlight was discovering Carol Dweck's TEDx talk, "The Power of Yet," while researching for an article influenced by this week's focus on affirmation.

Conversely, my least favorite aspect was wrapping up the week without a clear direction for my creativity and finances. A conversation with my friend Jasmine always lifts my spirits. I shared my intention to keep my business plans low-key while I navigate other projects and expressed my eagerness to move forward with one or two companies I interviewed with recently. My mother often sees the most uncertainty in me, and when she sent a simple smiley emoji in response to my update about my financial struggles, I was unexpectedly filled with gratitude and peace regarding my current path.

The beginning of this year has proven to be more challenging than triumphant. Throughout 2021, I faced numerous setbacks in my business and learned that "going for broke" often leads to actual financial struggles. Nevertheless, as the year ended, I resolved to focus on amplifying experiences of love in whatever 2022 had in store. Thus, I initiated a personal campaign: 2022: SPREAD LOVE.

If you haven't yet explored this inspiring article, let me summarize: I devised a four-step plan to enhance love in my life this year. These steps are as follows:

1. Express Gratitude
2. Send Positive Messages
3. Sing a Song
4. Engage in Positive Self-Expression

Each day, I hold myself accountable for implementing these steps to cultivate more love in my life. I will also track my weekly achievements, actions, and outcomes. Here’s the update for Week 02.

WEEKLY PROGRESS UPDATE

Expressing Gratitude

This week had its moments of disarray, especially during the early hours when I often found myself unsure if I had verbally acknowledged my gratitude for another day. There were days when I had already dived into my tasks when I paused to think, “Perhaps I should take a moment to express my thanks.” Overall, I feel this practice is gradually becoming a part of my daily routine, though I recognize there's room for improvement.

Sending Positive Messages

When I usually reflect on this section, I anticipate reviewing my messages to identify where I spread positivity. However, this week, I tried to rely on my memory of meaningful moments from the past seven days. The only notable positive message I recall sending was to my good friend Mel after our lengthy video chat. I believe setting aside time daily for this task will help me improve.

Singing a Song

Unlike sending messages, singing comes naturally to me and doesn't require scheduling. Initially, I worried that my practice sessions might replace genuine expressions of heartfelt songs. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case this week. I found myself reminiscing about various songs that resonated with me, allowing my emotions to flow freely through my voice. It’s incredible how vulnerable and expressive singing can be, and I've cherished this experience.

Practicing Positive Self-Expression

I’m pleased to report that I successfully engaged in positive self-expression every day this week, primarily through writing. In just seven days, I published four blog posts and penned at least five more. Moving forward, I aim to significantly boost my writing output. The only barrier between my current state and my aspirations is consistent practice.

Goals for Improvement

Looking ahead, I want to enhance my habit of expressing gratitude as soon as I wake up. I firmly believe in the transformative power of gratitude and wish to harness it to elevate my mindset and overall well-being. Additionally, I aim to be more intentional about sending positive messages daily. While I sent several this week, I want to ensure this becomes a consistent practice.

What actions have you taken recently to enhance love in your life?

2022: SPREAD LOVE.

Every single day this year, I am committed to spreading love through measurable actions.

WEEK 01 – 2022: SPREAD LOVE.

Exploring opportunities for growth.

In the first video, "NFL Week 2 Picks Against the Spread, Best Bets, Predictions and Previews," viewers can gain insights into effective betting strategies for the upcoming week.

The second video, "Spread the Love Week 2," delves into actionable steps to foster love and positivity in daily life.