Jewel Diamond Taylor is Teaching Out Loud

7 Ways to Get Things Done

2012-01-30T12:31:00.000-08:00

7 Ways to Be More Productive and Get Things Done

1. Think like triage medics. If you feel battle torn because of so many tasks and demands of your time, think like medics. Know where you need to stop the bleeding of your time, energy, money and focus. On the battlefield, medics have to decide where to apply their limited resources. They can't help everyone. The definition of triage is the process of sorting victims, as of a battle or disaster, to determine medical priority in order to increase the number of survivors. Some patients will survive and some will not. Triage means ignoring these two groups and focusing on those that will only survive with medical care. You must know which things you can safely ignore and which things demand your attention. What may seem urgent to others putting a demand on your time, may not be a priority to you. Learn to say "no" to the unimportant tasks, so you can say "yes" to the important tasks and actually get them done.

2. Prioritize what is urgent, critical, important, time sensitive and what things you can delegate.

3. Learn how to say "no" to requests of your time that distract you from your priorities. Cure yourself from the dis-ease to please others. Value your time and priorities.

4. Keep a watch, clock, calendar and things-to-do-list visible. I use a cool on-line tool as my visual bulletin board for my things to do list and for my vision/dreams/goal board. I am a visual person. Knowing this about myself, I learned to have visual aids around me to keep me focused on my priorities. If your goals and tasks are out of the sight, they are out of your mind. The web site is www.popplet.com

5. If you know you have the habit of falling into the trap of doubt, procrastination, feeling unworthy, clutter, isolation or too much TV or socializing...ask for an accountability partner. As a life coach to my clients, I offer accountability and steps so my clients can experience progress, results and satisfaction. Many people do not lose the weight, finish their book, overcome depression, de-clutter their lives, graduate or fulfill their dreams and goals because they are not accountable to anyone. Too many people leave things undone because of isolation, excuses, fear, lack of planning and a long list of things to do which causes frustration. Who are you accountable to so you can stay on track with your goals and realize the fulfillment of your potential?

6. Listen to your body. Get in your zone. I know that I am a morning person. This is when I am operating at my optimum energy level. As much as possible I schedule important tasks when I'm in my energy zone to get more done. I can't control or predict all requests of my time. But when I can ... I know that it is counterproductive to commit to tasks when my energy is low. Health is your first wealth. Be more consistent in eating healthy, drinking water, some form of exercise, good rest and spiritual renewal to maintain your energy.

Jewel Diamond Taylor

7. Acknowledge you can't do it all. The idea that you will eventually get caught up is a myth. It's impossible. You have more work than you can reasonably expect to get done. You have to make peace with the fact that you must leave some things undone-for the sake of your own sanity. ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor

Women's Counseling / Life Coaching

2012-01-27T09:02:00.000-08:00

Call 323.964.1736 or email JewelMotivates@gmail.com

to schedule an appointment with Jewel Diamond Taylor aka "The Self-esteem Dr.", wife, mother, entrepreneur, minister, author, conference keynote speaker and women's retreat leader offers practical and results-oriented guidance...

. progress and accountability to complete a goal

. self-esteem nurturing

. relationships

. break strongholds of procrastination, depression and self-doubt

. discovering life purpose

. encouragement and strategies to write your book

. develop professional speaking career

. effectual prayer

Motivational Cards

2012-01-23T19:36:00.001-08:00

Post them on your Facebook page. Print them for your bulletin board or share them with a friend.

To order any of these cards, send your email request to JewelMotivates@gmail.com or
call 323.964.1736

Guard Your Heart

2012-01-23T10:05:00.000-08:00

Your heart is the home of your emotions, hopes, dreams, faith and memories. If you let down your guard, you can lose your temper, character, confidence, peace, focus and faith.
So it is very important to guard your heart when you experience a setback, sorrow, delays and disappointments. Sure there are times you may want to throw in the towel. Yes, bad things do happen to good people. You may be holding on with your fingernails. Your tribulations and setbacks are a trap to convince you to give up. You may feel tired and alone. When I experience those times, I search for the prayers, words, music and strength to remind me of what Gospel Artist Marvin Sapp sings in this week’s song pick...”If you could only see what God sees, you’d get excited about your destiny.”

Don’t let bad times blur your focus and vision. People usually say, "I'll believe it when I SEE it." I suggest you reverse that! Faith requires you to SEE it before you believe it. Faith in what God can do requires trust in what you cannot see in the natural. You may not see your way out right now. You may not see how you're going to make it. You may not see the house, car, the job, graduation, new health, debts reduced, traveling, marriage healed or your business/ministry flourishing.

What do you see? What do you feel in your heart? Don't allow the enemy to block your vision and take your confidence. See yourself walking in victory. See yourself in your mind's eye experiencing the fulfillment of your purpose and goals. Faith gives you the vision to see through the fog of fear, worry, shame and doubt.

"What you see...is what you get."

Comedian Flip Wilson used to say..."What you SEE, is what you get." He was teaching a spiritual principle.

Do you see yourself less than blessed, broken, and defeated? Or do see yourself favored, prepared, optimistic, qualified,determined and loved by God? Do see yourself as ugly, fat, too old and unlovable? Or do you see yourself as beautiful, intelligent, creative, strong and loving? Do you focus on your pain, lack and hurts or do you focus on gratitude, love, peace and success? Do you see yourself as a failure or do you see yourself as a resilient, teachable and a blessed person? Begin to believe you can grow through your circumstances. Click the link below to listen to this week’s inspirational song pick. I pray it ministers to your heart and hopes.
~ Jewel Diamond Taylor

http://www.donotgiveup.net/SongPick10.htm

Jewel's mission statement

2012-01-19T17:18:00.000-08:00

How to Stop Being Late (Punctuality)

2012-01-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

Admit that you need to build punctuality. Denial and excuses do not build up credibility, leadership or professional qualities. You're creating a reputation for yourself, and it's not the best reputation to be establishing. People feel they can't trust you or rely on you, so it impacts relationships. It also impacts self-esteem.

Change your view point. Your appointments, job, family, team, church, committee, etc. need you and you’re doing them a disservice by not being there on-time and to show up, perform, give or serve. You’re too valuable to be late. Realize your tardiness is a problem for others. Don't use your lateness as an expression of power. .. "You're less powerful, so you have to wait for me; I can keep you waiting.”

Frequent tardiness can be a way of expressing unconscious or intentional subtle messages of rebellion, anger and resentment. Do you find yourself moving slow and late to a job you don't like or an activity with your spouse/family/parent/friend because you are angry with them? Do you resent being the caregiver in your family and so you show up late to the holiday dinner or family reunion? Are you angry with co-workers or your church feeling overlooked and under appreciated, so you show up late to meetings and miss deadlines? Do you resent filing your taxes and turning in a report on the job or at school because you feel it is unfair or too much of a demand? Do you feel mistreated by others and your retribution is always being late ...and you feel it is justified? Your acts of tardiness are speaking loudly. They could be the symptom of a deeper issue. As you learn to resolve and heal your issues of rebellion, anger and resentment you will be more conscious, respectful and punctual in regards to your commitments and requests from others.

Reframe how you see yourself. Stop defining yourself as someone whose always late - it boxes you in to that behavior.

Lay out your clothes, important papers, equipment, materials, tickets, laptop, accessories, etc. the night before. I began to see the costs of being late and the payoffs of being on time.

When I started packing my car the night before a conference speaking engagement or travel, I noticed I had less stress and more time.

Build in cushions before and after everything. You need drive time to get to appointments - add a few minutes to your estimate. Often, appointments run over time so build in a cushion there, too. Check and double check addresses and directions when you are going someplace new. Take into consideration traffic, weather, parking issues, car problems and bad driving directions.

Manage expectations. If you're going to be late, give people a call so they know. Allow time in the schedule for interruptions and preparation. This includes tasks like getting ready for work, finding locations of appointments, and getting directions. Be sure to allow a little more time that you think you will need. Schedule times for social activities and phone calls instead of letting them interrupt your work.

Punctuality is a function of basic professionalism, personal discipline, and respect for the time of others.

There are all sorts of time-management processes and tips that can improve punctuality, but they only work if the person has the discipline to apply them. And if the person has that discipline, they don't need the processes.

Avoid saying "yes" to every request. I usually found myself running late and stressed whenever I tried to take on too many projects and requests. I had to learn that I could not please everybody. Sometimes you have to say "no" to keep yourself focused on priorities, organized, punctual and stress-free.

Teach others how to respect your time with diplomacy and conviction. If you are a people pleaser or weak in communicating your time schedule, you will allow people to put you in a time squeeze. Here's a great thing to say: "Excuse me, I hate to cut you off, but I have an appointment to keep." It is hard to cut someone off, but they will respect you for sticking to a schedule. The higher up you go in corporate life, the stricter the people stick to a schedule. The good news is that this means it's perfectly acceptable in work life to draw time boundaries. Get comfortable doing it at work and then you can do it at home, too. Saying "no" and shortening a phone call or activity to insure your promptness takes forethought and practice.

Prioritize and figure out what's most important and just get that done. Communicate with the people who depend on you – like your boss/spouse — what your time frames, priorities and need for delegation are. I quickly learned from too many late and stressful times the importance of asking for help, putting gas in my car the day before, having a consistent place for my keys, purse and cell phone, programming my GPS before I leave, having phone numbers readily available and keeping healthy snacks in my car to avoid timely stops for food, gas, etc.

Wake up and realize your tardiness can affect your career opportunities negatively. People, bosses, customers and your children do notice!

After being late for a hair appointment and being informed I couldn't have my hair done that day and being charged a fee for a dentist appointment that I forgot...the costly pain and embarrassment taught me a lesson about respect, organization and punctuality. Fear, pain, boredom and anger are primary motivating factors in human beings. Unless there is a reward for being on time...or a punishment for not being on time...you will continue the bad and unprofessional habit of tardiness.

Putting yourself in other people's shoes can make a big difference in punctuality. If you know what it feels like to be left waiting, then you will be less likely to cause that feeling in other people once you imagine their circumstances. Remember the golden rule...Treat others the way you want to be treated."

Set your clocks and watch ahead a little. Mark the times of your appointments a little ahead of the actual time.

How much time, money and peace of mind have you lost?

How many relationships are ruined because you have not been dependable?

How many career opportunities have you lost because you lack organizational and time management discipline?

How many classes, lessons and projects did you have to repeat because you lack punctuality?

Who's trust have you lost?

How has your business, family, credit or ministry suffered because you lack discipline with time?

Punctuality shows integrity. Punctuality is a trust issue. When you make an appointment, you are making a commitment to be where you said you’d be when you said you’d be there. The only way you build up other people’s trust in you is by consistently meeting your commitments — and that starts with being punctual. The person who is always on time is someone others can trust to be as good as their word.

I believe my husband's limousine/sedan transportation business is successful because he is a stickler for punctuality. It used to be point of conflict for us because he would be frustrated with my tardiness and I thought he was being too bossy and too rigid. I believe his repeat customers are "repeat" customers because they know they can trust his dependability, professionalism and punctuality.

Begin to implement these punctuality steps in your professional and personal life and you will experience peace, self-esteem, success, less stress and gain the respect of others around you.

How to stop procrastinating

2012-01-19T06:18:00.000-08:00

The habit of procrastination is a common and big hindrance to experiencing success, health, peace of mind and a sense of satisfaction. Procrastination steals your time, health, money, blessings, integrity, opportunities, and sleep.

What is your procrastination type?

The thrill seeker looks forward to the rush he or she gets when facing last-minute deadline pressure.
Decisional procrastinators - those who simply can't make a decision; not making a decision relieves this type of procrastinator responsibility for the outcome of events, they rather pass the responsibility to someone else.
Perfectionists - all or nothing type personality, suffers from paralysis of analysis, offers excuses instead of executing because they want all circumstances to be perfect which is unrealistic.
Fearful - afraid of the unknown, doesn't want to be embarrassed or physical pain (i.e. dentist, taxes, school test), afraid to leave comfort zone, lacks faith, allows past results to give them a doomsday attitude.
Dreamer - fantasizes, in denial, believes someone should do the task for them or rescue them, they believe others should serve them because of their status, power, image, age...they feel privileged and above others. Their head is in the sky and blinds them from the consequences of delay and procrastination.
Emotionally challenged - lonely, depressed, grief, apathetic, discouraged, addicted, conflicted, taking care of others first, not feeling worthy of success and happiness
Clutter-bug - this personality type is unorganized, can't find anything, won't hang up their clothes, tasks and things pile up, they lack planning and good time management discipline.
Playful fun type would rather focus on the easy and fun tasks, needs to mature and realize their lack of action will cost them.

How to stop the procrastination habit:

The big picture of losing weight, graduating, getting rid of clutter, writing your book or getting out of debt can seem daunting and impossible. Break your tasks down into small steps.
Ask for accountability to complete what you start (i.e. coach, mentor, friend,
by Jewel Diamond Taylor, Keynote Speaker, Author, Success Coach, Women's Retreat Facilitator,
Workshop Trainer, Founder of Women on the Grow
www.DoNotGiveUp.net
etc.) Single, isolated, prideful and independent people need accountability or they will find quit with excuses and distractions.
Keep a clock, watch, calendar and things to do list in view at all times.
Stop worrying about perfection. Seek progress not perfection.
Don't lie to yourself and fool yourself. Take responsibility for the quality and progress in your life.
Remember the con$sequences if you continue to avoid tasks.Remember the rewards you will experience if you do take action.
Eliminate distractions (i.e. TV, games, phone, food, music, etc.)
Spend more time with achievers,leaders, readers and people who believe that with faith and action anything is possible for those who trust in the Lord. (imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. ~ Hebrews 6:11-12)

Did you know Jewel Diamond Taylor could be your Success Coach and help you break the procrastination habit? Would you like to accomplish more and experience progress and success? To set an appointment for your coaching session call 323.964.1736 or e-mail JewelMotivates@gmail.com

Life Changes

2012-01-12T10:17:00.000-08:00

Why do things have to change? Click link to see video
http://www.donotgiveup.net/Seasons.htm

Breakthrough and Breakout

2012-01-06T14:17:00.000-08:00

Secret to Being a Money Magnet

2012-01-05T16:26:00.001-08:00

Quit or Stay?

2011-12-30T07:34:00.000-08:00

"I agree that some situations are simply futile and you could stay too long in a dead end, no-win, fruitless, useless and barren situation or relationship.

There is a time to quit and there are times you need to hear "Don't give up."  Marriage, raising children, running a business, working in your ministry, pursuing a degree, your weight loss plan, or fulfilling a dream...all of these can be exhausting, stressful and full of unexpected surprises.

I wish I could tell you how many times I felt like giving up on my marriage, my ministry, my weight loss plan or even parenting my sons during their young rebellious immature seasons.

I also wish I could tell you how many times men and women have whispered in my ear after years of divorce...  "I wish I hadn't given up so soon."  Some people want to run away from bad situations, cheat, emotionally shut down or quit because of problems.  They get on a merry-go-round seeking perfect people and perfect circumstances.

Anything worth having will bring obstacles, challenges and tests of your character, faith, patience and determination.  Jobs are not perfect.  Churches are not perfect.  Classes and teachers are not perfect.  People are not perfect.  Parents are not perfect. Marriages are not perfect.  Some days will be easy and some days may be hard.  Work on becoming emotionally strong and spiritually grounded to anchor yourself instead of drifting and always starting over again.

Pray for wisdom and discernment to stay the course.   Sure you get tired.  You will experience doubt.  You will have setbacks.   You can grow through the joy and pain that life offers.  Time does heal.  Trust and joy can be restored.  Stick, stay, stand and speak life into your marriage, your children, your body, your tempted flesh, your angry or broken heart and your frustrated mind.

Instead of raising your hands up in the air saying "I give up and I can't take it anymore!"...raise your hands up in the air and surrender to God with thanksgiving and a willing heart. I am the evidence and a living testimony that if you do not grow weary in your WELL doing...you will reap a harvest (Gal 6:9). I have seen myself and loved ones mature and grow past foolishness and pain. I have seen that forgiveness is freeing, patience pays off, time heals, goals can become reality and God answers prayer." ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor, www.DoNotGiveUp.net

P.S. My husband and I both wanted to give up many times during the rough spots. We laid aside our egos, hurts, pride and past mistakes to have peace and God's guidance in our lives. This year marks the 41^stanniversary of our marriage.

If it had NOT been for the Lord on our side... I don't know where John and I would be.

Making Decisions

2011-12-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

Major decisions should not be made in an emotional state of peer pressure, advertising enticement, frustration, hurry, anger or stress. You don't want to make permanent decisions based on temporary emotions or circumstances.

Weight your options. Plan carefully. Communicate clearly and know there are rewards and consequences with every decision.

Remember your beliefs and behavior. Do you usually follow through? Are you making decisions based on what other people believe? Do you make decisions when you are hungry, angry, lonely or tired? Does your faith give you courage and comfort? Are you consistent? Do you become doubtful and weary and become easily distracted? Do you believe you are worthy, capable and ready? Do you act on your decisions or wait for others to confirm and push you? Are you in the habit of making decisions based on fear or desperation? How have you coped with the consequences from past decisions? Are you a loner or do you prefer a consulting with those you respect and trust? Have you made impulsive decisions in the past because of hurt, anger, stress, jealousy, pride, temptation or lack of information? Your past beliefs and past behavior patterns can predict your future style of decision making.

Be creative and willing to think outside the box of comfort, tradition and people pleasing.

Weight your decisions. Make a list of the pros and cons.

Don’t use the same decision method for all decisions.

Consider the likely magnitude of impact for each decision and choose

consensus, majority rule, one decider, or some other method.

How will your decision impact your relationships, health, income, integrity, time, values, opportunities, career, character, education, travel, peace of mind, etc?

Procrastination adds stress to decision making. Avoid allowing your decisions to stack up. Making decisions one at a time is so much easier than dealing with the pressure of many delayed decisions all at one time.

You can't afford to blame or expect everyone to understand and co-sign your decision.

Don't be in denial or fantasize. Consider the alternatives, risks and consequences.

Sometimes your heart and feelings can trick and mislead you. Sometimes you can be too heady, intellectual and become stuck in paralysis of analysis. Don't just "brainstorm."

A more holistic approach is to engage your brain, heart and spirit.

Be prayerful asking God to speak to your heart and mind.

Obtain counsel. In difficult decisions it's wise to get spiritual and practical counsel from the godly leaders in your life. A pastor, elder, parent, or simply a mature believer can often contribute important insight, answer questions, remove doubts and confirm inclinations. Make sure to choose individuals who will offer sound biblical advice and not just say what you want to hear. Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.~ Proverb 15:22

3 reasons why people change

2011-12-15T03:24:00.000-08:00

Where are you emotionally, mentally and spiritually today? Are you in; a wilderness of worry, a pit of pain darkness, a place of power, stuck in procrastination and denial, a downward spiral of addiction and stress, waiting between your vision and your victory, living in an uncomfortable zone, a valley of grief, at a crossroad of decisions, stuck in paralysis of analysis, an open mind that is teachable or in the front row of the "classroom of life" ready and willing to grow to the next level?

Author John Maxwell reminds us that people only change three times in their life.

1) When they HURT enough that they have to change.

2) When they LEARN enough that they want to change.

3) When they receive enough resources and support that they are able to change.

I am so honored to continue of offer my books, CDs, e-books, life coaching, training and 14 years of writing of my on-line e-newsletter to inspire you and others to receive what it takes to be able to make positive changes. You can choose to change now before it hurts so bad that you are desperate for help and change. Ready...set...grow! ` Jewel Diamond Taylor, The Self-esteem Dr., Author, Minister, Workplace Training Facilitator

Attitude check

2011-12-15T03:19:00.000-08:00

"Your skills, character, habits and people skills are being observed by your employer, team, co-workers, church, family and friends. You may wonder why you have not be elevated or had a career breakthrough.

As I watched the TV drama series "Grey's Anatomy", I was reminded of a great success life lesson. The resident surgeon character Dr. Cristina Yang was frustrated because her attending cardio surgeon, Dr. Teddy Altman , was not actively teaching her and promoting her to perfom solo surgeries. Yang constantly reminded everyone that she was the best and was willing to step over and push others back and out so she could be first. She couldn't understand why she was being held back. Yang's character strengths are being very ambitious, competitive and intelligent. However, her weaknesses are being bossy, aggressive, tactless, a loner and having poor bedside manners. She hates losing and being told what to do.

Finally Dr. Altman observed Yang perform a surgery where she was compassionate and demonstrated team leadership by including others instead of demonstrating her usual "take over" personality. Dr. Altman told her she was now ready. Yang was surprised and asked, "Why now?" Altman stated, "You put the patient first and you were willing to work on a team. I saw you at your best."

Do you consider your customer, spouse, team member or client first? Are you a loner or a team player? Are you a shark or a dolphin? Are you repelling people with your moodiness, arrogance, ambition or are you learning to cope and be inclusive to work with others? Are you achieving your full potential or sabotaging your success? Are you so focused on your own success so much that you forget to be sensitive to the needs of others? Are you in a power struggle with your spouse or co-workers? Are you living a life worthy of your calling? (Eph 4:1) Are you willing to rise with integrity, empathy and inclusiveness to fulfill your destiny in God's kingdom? Are you living, loving and serving in such a way that you would be elevated, promoted and blessed?

Be motivated today to strengthen your weak areas of people skills and team building. Whether you are married, on a team, committee, choir, church member or leader, job or business owner, remember to focus more on the "we" instead of the "me."

"Michael, if you can't pass, you can't play." - Coach Dean Smith to Michael Jordan in his freshman year

"A major reason capable people fail to advance is that they don't work well with their colleagues." ~ Lee Iacocca

Blessed another day

2011-12-15T03:13:00.000-08:00

If you are reading this message...you will agree that you and I have been blessed to see...

another day to get up and press through our challenges, disappointments and obstacles...

another day to count our blessings...

another day to focus on what is going right in our lives and not allow the challenges to steal our joy, faith or self-motivation to get up and show up...

another day to focus on our next step to achieve our goals and complete our tasks...

another day to show kindness, patience and courage...

another day to be determined...

another day to exercise our faith and courage...

another day to exercise our bodies...

another day to seize the moments of opportunities...

another day to continually praise the Lord in spite of our trials and tribulations...

another day to walk by faith and not by sight...

another day to pick up the broken pieces of our lives and be resilient...

another day to use our imagination, problem solving skills and faith to believe

anything is possible...

another day to be a blessing to others...

another day to show up for your commitments with gratitude and no grumbling...

another day to do your best...

another day to let go of stress and breathe in peace, gratitude, power and love.

Praying for a Job

2011-11-09T11:56:00.000-08:00

Reading this daily has transformational power to increase your faith and change your mind from fear to hope, peace and gratitude.

God, our Father, I turn to you seeking your divine help and guidance as I look for employment. I am excited about using the gifts and talents You have given me. My mind is ready and open to receive. I pray for a clear mind to be specific with my career goals and expectations (i.e. position, people, environment, location, compensation and benefits). Thank you for the resources I need to keep my life stable until I receive a new job and new income.

I pray for the confidence to grow out of my comfort zone with future interviews and prospects. Give me a peaceful and sharp mind. Bring to my memory all the knowledge and wisdom that is already there. Let your joy and contentment flow out through my words. And whatever the result, let my trust and faith remain strong in your power and provision. I trust You to work in and through my interviews. In Your name I bless those who will be conducting my interviews. Give them discernment and give me favor. I know that I do not go into my interviews alone. You are with me. And with that confidence, I am at peace.

Instead of focusing on lack, I focus my faith in your abundant provision for me and my family. I give thanks in advance for the right connections being made to line me up with great employment contacts. My opportunities and blessings are endless and sometimes they may come to me in unexpected and unusual ways. Open my eyes. Open my mind. Open my ears.

Right action begins with me and I am empowered by you God to begin moving and to keep moving towards greater success. I am guided today to the place where I am needed, valued and compensated well for my time and skills.

All that the Father has for me is mine and I receive it swiftness, gratitude and confidence. I use my career to the glory of God to benefit my family and those I serve.

I believe as I speak these words that You, Father God, go before me preparing a way. I have no fear for You are with me - my peace, my protection and my provision.

Thank you for releasing the courage, optimism, professionalism and resources I need to secure my divine right employment. Thank you for placing heavenly and earthly angels in my life to guide me.

I believe what You have done for others, You can do for me. Grant me favor so that I may return home today with praise and thanksgiving for your grace and mercy. I will share your goodness with others so they may know of your power and glory.

I feel better, encouraged and ready now to receive my career and financial breakthrough. Thank you Lord for being the center of my JOY and the source of my great new JOB! Amen

by Minister Jewel Diamond Taylor, aka "The Self-esteem Dr."

Jewel@DoNotGiveUp.net 323.964.1736

To hear this prayer as an audio message and to download it to your ipod, ipad or computer...click here

When Bad Things Happen

2011-10-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

You can't go through your life without sorrow, loss, disappointment or pain. Every day you make a decision and choose to be bitter or better. You can learn life lessons that will sustain you for future situations. You can learn how to bless others with your experience and wisdom gained from pain.

Shift happens in all our lives. Stay prayed up and connected to your circle of love and support. You can survive. In your weakness, God gives you strength. His grace is sufficient. His power and love are all around you. You are not alone. You are not a loser. You can rise above your circumstances. You can choose an attitude of gratitude, hope and courage.

Let old things pass away so you can begin a new season.

Click here to listen to an uplifting song

my book is available for you today

click here to order now

Love Smart with Your Heart

2011-10-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

Desperation and low self-esteem are terrible perfumes to wear.

Learn how to love smart with heart.

If you don't become smart with your heart, you can make some bad choices

that will cost you dearly.

Learn when it's time to close your body, wallet, spirit, dreams and trust

to those who do not deserve or earn your love.

Be smart enough to heal your heart.

Don't become a bricklayer building up walls shutting out

new opportunities for love and relationships.

Don't be so closed and hard that you never learn to love again

because of past hurts, broken trust and betrayal.

Don't try to buy love with your body, money, gifts, time, good credit,

or at the expense of the safety of you or your children.

Don't give up commitment for the sake of what is comfortable and convenient.

I teach others other to build up their self-esteem and relationships I.Q.

click here to read my popular book

Enduring difficult times

2011-10-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Bad things do happen to good people.

Bad things can be expected, unexpected, avoided or endured.

Make a choice today to rise above your circumstances.

Make a choice today to get equipped with faith and courage so you

won't be whipped by bad times.

Count your blessings and not your bad times.

Life is full of miracles and mysteries.

~ Jewel Diamond Taylor

Don't Give Up

2011-10-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

You may feel tired, discouraged, overwhelmed an stressed... get some rest, but don't give up.

Take a break...but don't give up.

Have a good cry...but don't give up.

Let go of lesser priorities...but don't give up.

Ask for help...but don't give up.

Go to plan B or even Plan C...but don't give up.

Change your thinking...change your approach...change your perspective...but don't give up.

Limitless Living

2011-10-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

Click below link to read full article about "Limitless Living"

Who or what thoughts are holding you down, holding you back, holding you hostage or limiting your possibilities? We often limit ourselves with doubt, procrastination, fear, low self-esteem, toxic relationships, a lack of courage and believing what the enemy or our critics say.

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Monday-Motivation.html?soid=1101040597398&aid=7O-pcfjK44U

Gratitude - Creating a Grateful Heart

2011-07-20T11:43:00.000-07:00

"Gratitude comes from paying attention, acceptance, humility and being in awe of the mystery of God's creation, love and saving power. Having a sense of entitlement makes gratitude impossible. When we continue to receive something on a regular basis, we typically begin to take it for granted. Our deepest sense of gratitude is an emotion that connects to the awareness of God's grace. Gratitude cannot live in a mind or heart full of judgment, criticism, greed, pride, worry and self-serving ambitions." ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." - Albert Schweitzer

"When you are grateful fear disappears and abundance appears." ~ Tony Robbins

"You simply will not be the same person two months from now after consciously giving thanks each day for the abundance that exists in your life. And you will have set in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more you have and are grateful for, the more will be given you. Real life isn't always going to be perfect or go our way, but the recurring acknowledgement of what is working in our lives can help us not only to survive but surmount our difficulties." - Sarah Ban Breathnach

"Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever!"- Psalm 118

"Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings." - William Arthur Ward

"There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy." - Ralph H. Blum

"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say "thank you?" - William A. Ward

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." ~ Thess 5:18

"May you arise each day with a voice of blessing whispering in your heart ... something good is going to happen to you. May you find harmony between your soul and your life. May the mansion of your soul never become a haunted place." ~ John O'Donahue

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Wednesday-Word.html?soid=1101040597398&aid=TtFHv-X0Sig

2011-06-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Wednesday-Word.html?soid=1101040597398&aid=TtFHv-X0Sig

What Is Blocking Your Path to Success?

2011-05-27T08:42:00.000-07:00

     Periodically, I find myself overwhelmed, ashamed and unproductive because my office and my closet get out of control.
     I find myself sitting in my office staring at piles of papers and books not knowing where to begin to de-clutter my work space.
     I find myself standing in my closet stressed because I did it again!!! I’m saying, “Jewel, how did you let this happen again?”
     Fortunately, my precious God-Daughter answers my distress call and comes over to help me de-clutter my closet and office. She does it without judgment. I begin to breathe again. I find what I need. I feel better because I was willing to sacrifice my pride for the sake of accountability, progress, peace of mind and an orderly productive environment.
     There is another type of clutter which is internal. You live inside your head. People far too often live with their internal mess and clutter (i.e. anger, stress, fear, drama, depression, grudges, jealousy, excuses, pride, perfectionism, regrets, secrets, wounds, shame, guilt and low self-esteem).
     We all have areas in our lives that need some attention, accountability and action. What is blocking your progress? What needs to be thrown away, sorted out and cleaned up? Are you sitting and staring, not knowing where to start to create a better life?
     As a Life Coach/Counselor, I offer accountability and insights to my clients to assist them de-clutter their thoughts, feelings and goals. No judgment here! I talk, listen, share and teach others how to move forward with their dreams, goals, emotional and spiritual healing and pursuit of purpose. Clarity comes from communication and a willingness to open up, throw out unused, unnecessary and old thoughts and feelings. My style of coaching/counseling support helps others to sort out their feelings, past hurts, limited thinking and sabotaging habits.
http://www.DoNotGiveUp.net/SuccessCoach.htm

The Mind Traps

2011-05-20T07:06:00.000-07:00

     Your mind can play tricks on you! There are two common emotional traps I want to discuss here. One trap is comparing yourself to others. This becomes a self-destructive trap because you can get stuck with resentment, jealousy, anger and feelings of inadequacy. Your inner critic will keep you from starting something new or keep you in an uncontrollable race to the top frenzy trying to keep up with the "Jones."
      You may be just getting started in your ministry, business, college or weight loss program. You may have just started with your new web site or writing your book. Never compare your beginning to someone else's middle. Any worthwhile pursuit is a process. It takes time, dedication, faith, focus, and the willingness to grow through the inevitable mistakes and setbacks.
      Your mind can play tricks on you and have you caught up in an emotional trap called assumption. This happened to me twice a couple of weeks ago. I felt offended by one person and unappreciated and upset by another person. I mis-judged. I pre-judged without asking questions. I made assumptions without putting smyself in their shoes. I got trapped in my ego, emotions and my point of view.
     Daily I am breaking the habit of assuming and pre-judging other people. Jumping to conclusions without the right information is dangerous. Because I was impatient, didn't ask questions or hurt in the past, I convicted myself to learn to have more empathy, compassion, discernment and patience. God is not finish with me yet. Everyone is fighting some type of battle. Everyone is not always on the same page with me (i.e. beliefs, values, energy, education, faith, awareness, personal drive, communication skills, emotional coping skills, socio-economic background or vision). Everyone doesn't always have the same sense of urgency or passion about the same things you and I do. Everybody won't always "get" you or support you. Everybody won't always see what see...do what you do...go where you go... or believe what you believe.
     We assume that the people closest to us know what we want or what we're thinking and what exactly it is that we're saying - even when we're not expressing our thoughts well. We end up hurt and offended that they "don't get us" and "they should have known what I meant." People are not mind readers. Too often we have fragile egos and defensive beliefs which can make us blow situations out of proportion, believe the worst and not really listen to others. We can't make good decisions or respond to others based on wrong information or misguided emotions. I'm challenging myself to do more of this...
Giving people the benefit of the doubt.
Believe the best in people.
Forgive others in the way I want to be forgiven.
Become a good listener.
Plan and pace myself to minimize frustration.
When in doubt, ask questions.
Don't always take every thing personally as a rejection.
e-book "How to Avoid the Mind Traps" by Jewel Diamond Taylor
     Making decisions based on wrong information leads to the emotional trap called assumption. Have you felt misunderstood? Have you shut down communication and jumped to conclusions because you felt offended? Have you made a snap decision and made a mental shortcut to judge someone? Have you allowed your imagination to run wild because you didn't ask questions? Have you said something that was hurtful or untrue because you didn't have all the information? Did you think your loved ones, friends or co-workers should be able to read your mind? Do you think everyone should operate on your time table and you never consider their needs? Do you think everyone should think, believe, love, work, talk and act the way you do? If your answer is "yes", your mind tricked and trapped you?

Four Agreements

2011-05-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

Don't eat emotional poison.

Listen to the podcast or read the book "The Four Agreements' by
Don Miguel Ruiz.

agreement 1

Be impeccable with your word - Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

agreement 2

Don’t take anything personally - Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.

agreement 3

Don’t make assumptions - Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.

agreement 4

Always do your best - Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.

Proverbs 4:23 Guard Your Heart

2011-05-16T17:21:00.000-07:00

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life" (Proverbs 4:23).

Why does Solomon teach this?

Your heart is where all your dreams, desires, ideas and passions live. Your heart connects you with God and other people. Your heart is vulnerable because of your past wounds, broken dreams, fears, conditioning and heartaches. Your heart holds your memories, sensitivities, expectations and hopes.

You take out your garbage each week and leave it overnight for the next day disposal pick up. Your trash sits on your sidewalk unattended. You don't watch it. You don't have your dog guard it. You don't care if someone passes by and takes something from it. Why? Because you don't value what's in the trash.

You value your treasures. Sometimes we even value our "stuff" more than what is in our hearts or who we say we love. We lock up our "stuff". We pay someone to store our "stuff". We buy colored plastic boxes from Target to store our "stuff." We have pretty jewelry boxes for our "stuff." We value our stuff and hope no one steals or borrows them.

Solomon's wisdom teaches us, "above all else, guard your heart."

As you start your day, begin it with prayer, meditation, spiritual reading, a healthy start i.e. (fruit, water, vitamins, stretching, deep breathing, hugs, etc.) and a review of your priorities. These acts serve as your breastplate armor to protect yourself from the inevitable fiery arrows of adversity during the day that will tempt, distract, disappoint, attack, criticize, frustrate, anger or mesmerize you away from your heart's treasures.

Throughout the day you may be offended, insulted, ignored, persecuted or hated on by the haters. Your faith may be questioned. Your loyalty may be questioned. Guard your heart.
The enemy does not what your stuff. The enemy wants to destroy your praise, peace, power, gratitude, destiny, service, purpose/vision, dreams, joy, health and the love in your heart for God, for life and your loved ones.

Guard your heart. Guard your treasures. Let no one or nothing rob you of your valuable treasures of time, family/friends, prayer life, goals and today's priority tasks to bring you results, progress and peace.

Welcome

2011-04-22T03:02:00.000-07:00

http://www.donotgiveup.net/

Are you tired and exhausted?

2011-04-22T02:51:00.000-07:00

click here to order the book

The Power of Your Words

2011-04-22T02:30:00.000-07:00

Great people talk about ideas. Average people talk about things.

Small people talk about other people.

1.“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Proverbs 18:21)

2.“There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health. The truthful lip shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment.” (Proverbs 12:18)

3.“Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking guile. Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.” (Psalm 34:13)

4.“A man’s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth, and from the produce of his lips he shall be filled.” (Proverbs 18:20)

5.“The Lord God has given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary.” (Isaiah 50:4)

6.“Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” (Colossians 4:5)

7.“The mouth of the righteous is a well of life, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked.” (Proverbs 10:11)

8.“The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; the wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook.” (Proverbs 18:4)
9.“A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.” (Proverbs 15:4)

10.“Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24)

11.“Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” (Proverbs 12:25)
12.“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.” (Proverbs 15:1)

13.“He who guards his mouth preserves his life, but he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction.” (Proverbs 13:3)

14.“Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles.” (Proverbs 21:23)
15.“The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.” (Proverbs 15:28)
16.“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” (Psalm 141:3)

Procrastination is a Thief

2011-04-22T02:26:00.000-07:00

This is the book to read to break the habit of procrastination. Begin to see progress and results today!

Jewel Diamond Taylor - Weekly Pearls of Wisdom - 032011

2011-03-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

Rejected, Denied, Delayed

2011-03-23T10:06:00.000-07:00

     "No one enjoys being dumped, rejected, laid off, denied, delayed or put down. I believe sometimes... rejection is God's protection. I believe that people can be blinded by fantasy, abuse, guilt or procrastination and not realize because they lacked the strength to move on...God has a way of closing doors to unfulfilling jobs, cutting us off from people who mean us no good and ending relationships where we lacked the integrity, self-esteem, faith or courage to mend or end.

     I believe that sometimes there is some good in a good-bye. I believe there are times we are too naive or in a comfort zone and the only way we can grow is to experience the GOOD-bye.    I believe there are times our fear, pride or blind spots keep us in the wrong place or a relationship that has passed the expiration date. There were times in my past when I thought I was ready, qualified or deserving of success, but I realize now I wasn't ready. I sought after relationships where I wasn't equally yoked spiritually, emotionally or professionally. I'm so grateful now that God closed those doors because I was so blind. If I had been insistent and foolish to pursue some relationships, friendships or jobs, I would have missed my true purpose and blessings. When I heard "no" back then, I didn't realize God had a "YES" waiting for me to become more faithful, focused, prepared, willing and aligned in His will.
     As I look back over my life, I'm grateful God protected me from some desires, relationships, opportunities and jobs that I desperately wanted. But His grace allowed me to feel the pain of rejection and discover there was some good in good-bye. Now when I experience delays or rejection, I believe it's God protection, not punishing me, but pushing me to pray for guidance, discernment and patience." by Jewel Diamond Taylor, author of "Learn How to Love Smart With Your Heart"

Jewel Diamond Taylor, The Self-esteem Dr.

2011-03-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

Pain or Pleasure Will Motivate You

2011-01-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

"This new year offers you great possibilities. Are you willing to let go of the old.

Just like a trapeze artist must let go of one ring to go to the next ring, you too must let go of some things to move forward. Yes, it will take courage and practice, but you can do it.

When you are ready to let go of old habits, toxic relationships, pride, anger, addictions, wasted time, grudges, inconsistency, fear and any outdated-limited-immature thinking you may be called selfish or crazy.

People around you may feel threatened and may not understand your new strength, courage, voice and choices.

If I had listened to my haters and naysayers years ago I would not be in the place of progress and blessing I'm in now. Spiritual, personal and professional development should be on-going. I still have so much more to do. Yet what I have I learned for sure over the years... is that disobedience to God's call on your life, procrastination and fear will rob you of your possibilities.growth and eternal life.

Procrastination is a thief. Get started today. Don't wait until you hurt enough that you are forced to change.

Learn enough so you want to change your habits.

You can wait to be motivated to change because of pain, i.e. (the uncomfortable, stressful and unhealthy situations in your life).

Or you can be motivated to change because of the pleasure and rewards that come as a result of your actions and attitude, i.e. (more time, more peace, more money, more customers, more energy, more faith, more friends and family, integrity, character and maturity, more progress or the blessing of living in your purpose). Will pain or pleasure motivate you to change?
~ by Jewel Diamond Taylor, www.DoNotGiveUp.net

To listen to Jewel Diamond Taylor's internet interviews and podcasts - click here

Self-esteem Dr. speaks (interview part 2)

2011-01-02T07:53:00.000-08:00

The Self-esteem Dr. Speaks (interview Part 1)

2011-01-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

To schedule your one-on-one coaching/counseling session with
the Self-esteem Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor
call 323.964.1736
e-mail JewelMotivates@gmail.com

How Do You Endure Tough Times?

2011-01-02T07:18:00.000-08:00

Do you stand on your worries or God's word?

Listen to Jewel's internet radio show "Trusting the Lord." http://donotgiveup.net/TrustTheLord.htm

2010-12-12T07:13:00.001-08:00

Do you know why a car's WINDSHIELD is so large and the rear view mirror is so small?

Because our PAST is not as important as our FUTURE. Look forward and move on.

Friendship is like a BOOK. It takes few seconds to burn, but it takes years to write.

Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says,
"Relax, my child… it's just a bend, not the end!”

When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; when GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.

WORRYING does not take away tomorrow’s TROUBLES, it takes away today’s PEACE.

"You have to find something that you love enough to be able to take risks, jump over the hurdles and break through the brick walls that are always going to be placed in front of you. If you don't have that kind of feeling for what it is you are doing, you'll stop at the first giant hurdle."
~ George Lucas, Film Director and Producer

Conquer the little things, so the little things don't become big things. If you can't handle and manage the small things in life, you're not ready to master the big things. This is scriptural. Read Luke 16:10

Parenting Wisdom

2010-11-27T11:06:00.000-08:00

I have to admit I still struggle at times with missing my sons.

They are adults with lives of their own. They are independent

and strong willed. My heart aches missing them and wanting

a "do-over" as a parent.

I'm haunted at times with the questions..."Did I do a good job?

Did I prepare them for the world of adversity and disappointments?

Did I model the right attitude, choices and lifestyle?

Will they be OK without ME? Will they grow in their relationship

with the Lord? Will they find their purpose? Do they miss me?

Do they remember the good times? Do they know how much

their father and I love them?

Yes, pride, guilt, worry and fear really do a job in my head and

heart. I know intellectually my husband and I are supposed to

give them roots and wings.

I found this message from the late Erma Bombeck that really

gave me a visual aid to better understand my role as a parent.

She wrote..."You spend a lifetime trying to get them off the ground. Finally they are airborne, but then need more string and you keep letting it out, and with each twist of the ball of twine, there is a sadness that goes with the joy because the kite becomes distant, and somehow you know that it won’t be long before that beautiful creature will snap the lifeline that bound you together and soar as it was meant to soar ... free and alone. But then, there comes the time when one kite or the other suddenly nose-dives toward the ground, and you have to be ready to patiently try to get it airborne again.”

5 Ways to Cope with Shift and Stress

2010-11-15T08:41:00.000-08:00

There are harmful and helpful ways to cope with stress.

Because you are a creature of habit, you will tend to always take the same path of behavior to respond to the shifts and stresses of life.

To see my short video about the "5 Ways to Cope With Shift and Stress"...click this below link http://www.donotgiveup.net/MotivationalMessagesList.htm

Have a blessed, productive and peacefilled week.

~ The Self-esteem Dr. Jewel Diamond Taylor, author, minister, life coach and women's retreat leader.

Thank you to all the beautiful women who attended my recent sold out seminar/luncheon in Inglewood, CA. We have outgrown that location. The date and new location for Part 2 in December will be announced soon.

Power of Influence

2010-10-19T01:40:00.000-07:00

"Never underestimate the power of association. You have influence on others. The people you spend the most time with are influencing you. Is it negative or positive?

Do the math? Do they substract or add value to your life? Do they multiply your stress or success factor? Do they add drama and divide family and teamwork?

Look at the 5 people you spend the most time with. The more access they have to your time and heart, the more they have a strong influence on your attitude, lifestyle, choices, the words you speak, books you read, music, social adtivities, temperment, faith, goals, character and ability to trust others.

If you spend too much time with gossipers, small thinking, misguided, doubting, negative, depressed and lazy people...the more influence they will have on you.

In parenting my sons I used to mimic what I heard as child, "Birds of feather, flock together." I wanted my sons to choose their friends wisely. Eagles who soar and turkeys who stay on the ground both have feathers. What type of bird are you becoming because of association? Whether you realize it or admit it...over time you will be influenced by the company you keep, the one you marry or date, the friend you choose, the people you work with and the people you worship with.

The more time you spend with active, caring, positive, honest, faith-walking, resilient, knowledgeable, purpose -driven, goal seeking and balanced living people...the more they will influence you. A quote from my SUCCESS GEMS book states, "Don't spend major time with people who focus on minor things." ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor, www.DoNotGiveUp.net

Quitting Too Soon?

2010-09-15T09:40:00.000-07:00

"I agree that some situations are simply futile and you could stay too long in a dead end, no-win, fruitless, useless and barren situation or relationship.

There is a time to quit and there are times you need to hear "Don't give up."  Marriage, raising children, running a business, working in your ministry, pursuing a degree, your weight loss plan, or fulfilling a dream...all of these can be exhausting, stressful and full of unexpected surprises.

I wish I could tell you how many times I felt like giving up on my marriage, my ministry, my weight loss plan or even parenting my sons during their young rebellious immature seasons.

I also wish I could tell you how many times men and women have whispered in my ear after years of divorce...  "I wish I hadn't given up so soon."  Some people want to run away from bad situations, cheat, emotionally shut down or quit because of problems.  They get on a merry go round seeking perfect people and perfect circumstances.

Anything worth having will bring obstacles, challenges and tests of your character, faith, patience and determination.  Jobs are not perfect.  Churches are not perfect.  Classes and teachers are not perfect.  People are not perfect.  Parents are not perfect. Marriages are not perfect.  Some days will be easy and some days may be hard.  Work on becoming emotional strong and spiritually grounded to anchor yourself instead of drifting and always starting over again.

Pray for wisdom and discernment to stay the course.   Sure you get tired.  You will experience doubt.  You will have setbacks.   You can grow through the joy and pain that life offers.  Time does heal.  Trust and joy can be restored.  Stick, stay, stand and speak life into your marriage, your children, your body, your tempted flesh, your angry or broken heart and your frustrated mind.

Instead of raising your hands up in the air saying "I give up and I can't take it anymore!"...raise your hands up in the air and surrender to God with thanksgiving and a willing heart.    I am the evidence and a living testimony that if you do not grow weary in your WELL doing...you will reap a harvest (Gal 6:9).  I have seen myself and loved ones mature and grow past foolishness and pain.  I have seen that forgiveness is freeing, patience pays off, time heals, goals can become reality and God answers prayer." ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor,www.DoNotGiveUp.net

P.S. My husband and I both wanted to give up many times during the rough spots.  We learned to lay aside our egos, hurts, pride and past mistakes to have peace and God's guidance in our lives.  This year marks the 40th anniversary of our marriage. Some marriages have few tests and problems. And there those like mine that needed God's mercy, grace and favor. We did not make it this far on our own. If it had NOT been for the Lord on our side... I don't know where John and I would be.

BURNED OUT AND ABOUT TO GIVE UP

2010-09-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

Burnout is the gradual process of developing stress in response to prolonged physical, mental, financial and emotional strain. Burnout can cause you to detach from church, family, work and other meaningful relationships. The result is lowered productivity, cynicism, sickness, confusion...a feeling of being drained, having nothing more to give.

If you find yourself caregiving for family members and overwhelmed helping wounded and broken people in social systems...you could find yourself burned out. It happens to parents, teachers, nurses, case workers, Pastors, counselors and case workers dealing with those suffering with issues about housing, the courts, hospitals, schools, recovery or unemployment lines.

Self-preservation is not selfish. Remember to take good care of yourself. Take periodic breaks before you have a breakdown. Establish boundaries to maintain your sanity and personal life. It's wonderful that so many of you have compassion and a servant's heart. Remember you are not God or a superwo(man). The danger is when you forget to take care of yourself the way you take care of others. Be on the alert for signs of depression, guilt, sleep deprivation, body aches, prolonged feelings of grief, anger or over-responsibility.

You need boundaries and help. Be willing to delegate. It’s OK to say “no” without feeling guilty when you have unrealistic demands of your time, money, trust and personal obligations.

Don't assume that everyone should feel, act or respond the way you do. Prayer, connection with family and friends or even time alone to reflect and rejuvenate yourself are healthy.

Remember the importance of delegating duties, having boundaries, letting go and knowing your limits, taking periodic breaks, physical activity, music, creative activity and a sense of humor will help you avoid burnout.

Easy and quick fixes may not exist. However, you can learn to cope in healthy ways to avoid having the tables turned and now you need help because you neglected your own health.

A change in routine is a helpful and positive diversion to take your mind away from negative and gloomy thoughts.

Listen to your body signals and allow yourself to experience tender loving care from others, rest, water, healthy foods, physical activity, nature, laughter and creative outlets. Lavender oil has been shown to relieve tension, ease tiredness, and reduce feelings of depression.

Remember there is only so much you can do. Take off your superwo(man) cape and trust the Lord. I know it's only natural to worry but you must work on overcoming being WEARY. Take a break. Do something for yourself...then you can return to your family or tasks refreshed without resentment. ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor, www.DoNotGiveUp.net

To book speaker call 323.964.1736 or e-mail JewelMotivates@gmail.com

Let Go of Emotional Pain

2010-08-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

Where does it hurt? That's the question the doctor usually asks when you come to be healed of your back ache, head ache, muscle pain, heart problems, high blood pressure, weight issues or depression?

Your emotional and physical body are one. Your body holds memories, emotions and unresolved issues. You probably have feelings that are unexpressed or never healed and they get stored in your body. You may have emotional junk in your trunk. Your heart can be heavy with emotional clutter. Maybe as a child you were never been hugged...never accepted...felt different...always punished...told to be quiet, be seen and not heard has suppressed emotions in your body.
Your feelings from a divorce, job loss, accident, anger or uncried tears from the death of a loved one can pile up boxes of emotions in your body. Those boxes may have never been opened because you had to keep going to work, show face, be strong, survive and hold it all together. Those boxes of pain could be stored in your knees, heart, head, back or neck. Your internal conflict or unresolved emotional issues can store up in your muscles. You could have bladder problems (e.g. "He pissed me off!"). Maybe you are full of anxiety, nervous, worried and can't sleep (e.g. "They are getting on my nerves."). Maybe you're realizing you've had denial, lapses of memory, fallen into an addiction caused by saying to yourself, "I can't believe this is happening to me!@#!". Your way of coping could have been sleeping, depression, denial, lapses of memory, etc. Unresolved sadness or anger from a breakup could make you feel you like you can't breathe or your chest feels heavy, (e.g. "My heart is broken.") Here comes the heart attack or stroke. Maybe your self-esteem was crushed from an incident of embarrassment or neglect and now you stutter or have extreme anxiety attacks.

You could be experiencing muscle pain because of avoiding emotions that you have spent years avoiding.

I've had my share of depression which happens when a toxic situation builds up over time in the brain. Recently I have allowed myself to open some boxes and stop suppressing some feelings. I'm getting rid of some emotional boxes. I have cried, reflected, cut my losses, let go of grudges, forgiven myself, laughed, given thanks, prayed and let go. I have felt muscle tightness in my shoulders (e.g. Trying to fix other's problems and carry the world on my shoulders...thus back and shoulder pain.)

Seek healthy ways to unpack your emotional boxes and get rid of the emotional clutter.

In my seminars and retreats I offer injections for the infection of low self-esteem, fear, stress, procrastination and emotional pain. Those boxes could be blocking your door of success, health, peace and blessings.

This article is an excerpt from Jewel Diamond Taylor's e-book "Get Rid of the Physical and Emotional Clutter". Click here to receive your copy today!

Lighten up - Have Fun - Let Go of Stress

2010-08-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Hear audio messages

2010-08-05T08:59:00.000-07:00

Click convenient link to listen to the list of great audio messages on-line.

Listen and be inspired RIGHT NOW!

http://www.donotgiveup.net/WGRO.htm

Watch Out for Doubt

2010-08-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

You may be saying to yourself..."It's taking too long for my blessings to come. I'm a good person. I tithe. I serve. I help others. I do the right thing. I've turned my life around. I don't cheat or steal. I offer up my prayers. I'm loving. Where is my mate, home, happiness, job or health?"

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. (Proverb 4:23)

Guard your heart and emotions. When you experience struggle, lack, shame, rejection and setbacks, these life experiences can shatter your sense of worth and hope. When things don't work out or you feel your blessings of success are being blocked...be careful of those self-diminishing thoughts i.e. "I'm a failure. I feel powerless. I can't win, It won't work, I can't do this, I feel useless. What's the use?"

The enemy of doubt and defeat can take over if you don't guard your heart and thoughts. You start to question your ability and possibilities. A season of drought can cause self-doubt and drain you of your strength.

You can't hurry God or take short cuts. You don't want to compromise your character or lose your faith, lose your way, lose your mind or lose your patience. When things go wrong, you don't have to go wrong with them. Looking for love, comfort or a hiding place in someone's bed, a bottle, food, drugs, excessive spending, anger or isolation are not the solution. Learn how to respond to stress and changes in your life with courage, optimism and prayer. Count your blessings. Go on a fast. Get outdoors. Go for a walk. Enjoy some uplifting music. Don't call up the "energy vampires" (you know those negative people who drain your faith, peace and strength).

Take your attention off yourself and encourage someone else today. Place your attention on solutions, faith and action. Alter your thinking by laying your problems on the altar.

"Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart" (Psalm 31:24).

Surrendering and being still until your storm passes is not a sign of weakness. Sometimes it's the best and only thing to do.
Be encouraged and resilient. Some situations are beyond your control.

No matter how good a person you are or how much preparation you make, stuff happens.

No matter how strong the attack, be still and Trust God.

You may be experiencing envy, threats from bill collectors, loneliness, heartache or wondering how you will get through your season of drought. Read more in my book "Shift Happens." ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor, Author, Minister, Conference Keynote Speaker, Leadership Seminar Facilitator, www.DoNotGiveUp.net

To book speaker for your conference, campus, church, retreat or work place training...call 323.964.1736

God's Perfect Ways

2010-08-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

During troubled times you can have blessed assurance, perfect peace and a strong faith. If you can feel and really understand the words of Psalm 23, you will know why I say, "I am too blessed to be stressed"

The Lord is my Shepherd (perfect salvation).

I shall not want (perfect satisfaction)

He maketh to lie down in green pastures (perfect rest)

He leadeth beside still waters (perfect refreshment)

He restoreth my soul (perfect restoration)

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness (perfect guidance)

I will fear no evil (perfect protection)

Thou art with me (perfect companionship)

Thy rod and Thy staff (perfect comfort)

Thou preparest a table (perfect provision)

Thy anoinest my head (perfect consecration)

My cup runneth over (perfect joy)

Surely, surely (perfect confidence)

Goodness and mercy shall follow me (perfect care)

I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever (perfect destiny)

If you have my book SISTERFRIENDS, this above message is on page 82.

Feeling behind, bored, broke, burdened, bitter or have the blues?

2010-07-01T23:00:00.000-07:00

Do you remember your goals set in January? Are you still on track? Have you been distracted or discouraged?

This year, finish what you start...travel some place new...increase your circle of contacts and friends...or you may need to do the opposite by carving out more time for yourself and God to reflect and renew.

This year, allow "the David" in you to stand up. The two biggest giants you will need to slay this year with your "sling shot of faith" and your "stone of courage" are FEAR and PROCRASTINATION.

You can change your clothes, change relationships, change where you live/work or change churches but the real change needs to happen in your mind. Your thoughts inform and shapes your feelings, words and behavior. Your behavior shapes your actions and habits. Your actions and habits determine your outcome, results and destiny.

You may not be able to change people or change your circumstances, but you can change how you think about them. You can change how you think about yourself and your possibilities. Until you change and train your mind to think and do something different... this year won't be much different than last year. Is that good news?

You may feel behind, bored, broke, burdened, bitter, have the blues and unable to bounce back from setbacks and disappointments. God's word tells us in Isaiah 52:2 to rise, get up and shake off the chains. I offer "Bounce Back" video interviews for on-line viewing - click here. ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor

Read more in e-book "Heal Your Mind and Your Behind Will Follow."

Which size box do you live in?

2010-07-01T22:56:00.000-07:00

"If you are unable to forgive yourself for past mistakes or do not seek spiritual healing, you will live in a small box of fear and shame. The enemy within you can defeat and destroy your spirit, destiny and peace of mind.

Think, pray and act outside any box of limitation.

The only way to overcome the shadow of your past is to learn the lessons. Continually seek ways for renewal, redemption, recovery and recommit yourself to achieving your goals. Don't allow your pain, mistakes and disappointments from the past defeat you.

Continue believing in your possibilities for success and peace. If you suffer from perfectionism, procrastination or poor self-esteem...snap out of it. Bounce back! The quality of your life is in your hands. Get equipped, so you won't be whipped by the enemy within. The reason star athletes and heros are admired so much is because they endure pain and long suffering...they press...they stay in the game...they push pass the opposition...they keep their eye on the ball. The heavy emotions of regrets, resentment and remorse will keep you from getting up and moving forward with your life. Can you bounce back today from past hurts and setbacks?" Click here to view interviews of resilient people learning to bounce back after living in fear, addiction, personal setbacks, etc.

~ by Jewel Diamond Taylor Conference Keynote Speaker, Author, Minister, Leadership Development Trainer, Women's Retreat Facilitator

You are in Good Hands with God

2010-06-18T17:34:00.000-07:00

Things are not permanent, they don't last. We get attached to the pleasant and want to avoid what is painful.

Fear causes you to shut down, hold back, isolate and close your heart and mind. The truth you believe and cling to makes you unavailable to hear anything new. When you have narrow faith vision, you can’t see a new way. As we awake and accept the reality of human existence, we become used to the fact that things shift and change. Life cannot always be managed. Events happen too fast. Children grow, parents age, pets wander off, water heaters rust, and jobs come and go.

We cry, point fingers, can't sleep, feel hopeless, angry, close our eyes not wanting to see or know the truth and become paralyzed with fear. That is what the enemy wants us to do when change and pain show up in our lives. Get up! The best thing to do in the midst of change is to confront the crisis, respond quickly, ask for collective wisdom, pray, breathe and “grow with the flow.”

Every moment you decide to get up and overcome the paralysis of fear, the isolation of shame and hopelessness and take action, you have victory. Small victories lead to big victories. Small steps lead to progress.

When change and stress are stealing your joy, remember…

The will of God will never take you where the grace of God cannot keep you,

where the arms of God cannot support you,

where the riches of God cannot supply your needs,

where the power of God cannot endow you.

The will of God will never take you where the Spirit of God cannot work through you,

where the wisdom of God cannot teach you, where the army of God cannot protect you,

where the hands of God cannot mold you.

The will of God will never take you, where the love of God cannot enfold you,

where the mercies of God cannot sustain you, where the peace of God cannot calm your fears,

where the authority of God cannot overrule for you.

The will of God will never take you, where the comfort of God cannot dry your tears,

where the Word of God cannot feed you, where the miracles of God cannot be done for you,

where the omnipresence of God cannot find you.

"Everything happens for a purpose. We may not see the wisdom of it all now, but trust and believe in the Lord that everything is for the best."

The way to be anxious about nothing is to be prayerful about everything.

The above message is an excerpt from the book “Shift Happens”

Audio podcasts from Jewel

2010-06-04T17:58:00.000-07:00

Click convenient link to listen to the list of great audio messages

on-line. Listen and be inspired RIGHT NOW!

http://jeweldiamondtaylor.podbean.com/

Video - Leadership and Self-esteem

2010-06-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

There are three things a leader must do to share their vision with the world. There are three things a parent must do to help their child succeed in life. Everyone is a leader and has the ability to influence others. Listen to the following interview to learn more from Leadership Trainer - Minister - Women's Retreat Leader Jewel Diamond Taylor. (we apologize for the hissing sound in the background...this interview was taped near a waterfall).

Part 1 of 2

Part 2 of 2

Grow Out of Your Comfort Zone

2010-05-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

'Sometimes you may feel stuck between your pain and your promises because of fear, procrastination, unable to see your worth and unable to see beyond your present circumstances. The lies and confusion you saw as a child, in past relationships, in school, past bad decisions and from the enemy can paralyze your ability to succeed in life.

Growing out of a stagnet and fruitless comfort zone or choosing to grow out of sin, addiction, drama, confusion and bad entanglements can seem difficult, embarrassing, impossible, uncomfortable, painful, awkward and uncertain. Growth out of the familiar brings the pain that births great change!

God wants to prove and move you to greater heights. God wants to stretch, confront, change, and challenge you to go, be, do and have life more abundantly. It's time to press through any mess, shyness, insecurity, past rejections, wounded feelings, denials, disappointments and false thinking. Come out of your comfort zone. You have dreams, possibilities, prosperity, blessings and so much of life to experience. Accept the invitation today to grow out of your comfort zone.

Webster dictionary "grow" - to advance toward maturity, to flourish, develop, get bigger. (listen to the song below by gospel artist Marvin Sapp "Comfort Zone)." by Jewel Diamond Taylor

The Comfort Zone Poem (author unknown)

I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I couldn't fail,
The same four walls of busy work were really more like a jail.
I longed so much to do the things I'd never done before,

but I stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.

I said it didn't matter that I wasn't doing much,

I said I didn't care for things like diamonds or furs and such.
I claimed to be so busy with the things inside my zone,

but deep inside I longed for something special of my own.

I couldn't let my life go by just watching others win,

I held my breath and stepped outside to let the change begin.
I took a step and with new strength I'd never felt before,

I kissed my comfort zone good bye and closed and locked the door.

If you are in a comfort zone afraid to venture out,

remember that all winners were at one time filled with doubt.

A step or two and words of praise can make your dreams come true
Greet your future with a smile, success is there for you!

click here to listen to the song "Comfort Zone" by Marvin Sapp

Have a good time - celebrate life!

2010-05-25T14:35:00.001-07:00

Laugh...release stress...let go...do something different...dance

Stick...Don't Quit

2010-05-25T13:40:00.001-07:00

I define a “serial quitter” as someone who looks for quick fixes, short cuts, drive-through spiritual fast food and all green lights on their road to success. They often are running in the wrong lane towards the wrong finish line. Sometimes their ladder of success is propped up against the wrong wall. Have you said “yes” to the right assignment/purpose for your life?

Once you become clear, determined, diligent, relentless and resilient… no thing and no one can stop you. Yes, they can discourage you, but you learn to overcome restlessness, impatience, pain and obstacles. Moments of uncertainty and impatience will come, but they subside.

Have you ever stood in line at the grocery store; the line was too long, you were in a hurry, someone ahead of you was taking too long. In your frustration, you kept changing lanes. You exhaled loudly and complained that the store needed more clerks. This is a test of your patience. On the way to your dream/goal/destiny/task, you will experience delays and discouragement. It’s a test!!!! Can you wait without reward? Can you endure waiting? Can you endure when God is silent in your valley? Can you enjoy the moment? Patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit. Patience comes from the Latin word “suffer.” Worship while you wait. Work while you wait. Give thanks while you wait. Prepare while you wait. When there is a delay, faith says STAY!
Don’t catch another train because things are not going your way. Overcome a short attention span. Don’t quit, stick with your plan.

No longer start and stop. Procrastination is a thief. No more excuses. Instead of venting your complaints or getting bent out of shape with impatience, be diligent. Get up and keep the main thing…the MAIN THING!

My word of encouragement for you today is to stay in your lane. Stay on track. Laziness, procrastination, lack of confidence and lack of self-control are the enemies to your success. Be diligent in your faith and actions. You probably have my book “Shift Happens”. Remember to read often. Repetition is important for transforming of your mind to think and bounce back in positive ways.

“The soul of the diligent shall be made full (blessed by the Lord and made to prosper.) ~ Proverbs 13:4

The Power of Your Words

2010-05-25T13:38:00.001-07:00

Release wordstoday of love, faith, courage, optimism, healing, faith, forgiveness, enthusiasm, cooperation, joy, peace, truth and gratitude.

Let your words of success take flight.

Shout words of victory and power to encourage yourself.

Fill your atmosphere with words of strength, determination and hope.

God’s Word in Proverbs 18:21 tells us that life and death are in the power of the tongue.   Words are carriers of meaning, emotion, faith, fear and energy.

A repetitive teaching from my parents still echoes in my mind… “It’s not WHAT you say, but HOW you say it.”   And I remember, “Think twice before you speak.   If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.”
And I heard as a child, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.” Now that statement is not true. Words do carry the potential to hurt, linger, humiliate, misdirect, anger, sadden or crush one’s spirit.

Remember words can heal or hurt…bless or stress…create or destroy…attract or repel…motivate or discourage…decrease or increase your opportunities … demean or develop a healthy self-image. As parents we are not perfect. We often carry our wounds from words and then unknowingly pass them onto our children.

   Once we forgive, heal and become aware of the impact of words, then we can break the generation cycle of low self-esteem and crushed spirits.

“The game of life is a game of boomerangs. Our thoughts, deeds and words return to us sooner or later with astounding accuracy. ” by Florence Scovel Shinn “Your Word is Your Wand.”

Think twice before you release words of anger, jealousy, lies, gossip, criticism, fear, vulgarity, lack, excuses or defeat.   Different words evoke different feelings.

Send out your words like arrows with great intention, power and focus.
Don’t underestimate the power of words to make or break you financially. Your words are boomerangs. If you constantly speak only about lack, you will experience more little and lack.
Be more and more aware of God’s abundance, love and infinite provision; you can never really feel a state of lack and stress if you remember the truth … “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalms 23:1)

What words are you speaking and releasing today?

What words have taken flight and will return because of the law of cause and effect? You possess what you confess. If you believe the Word of God, speak and release your words of faith andbelieve the promises for your provision. Read Mark 9:23

When is it time to quit?

2010-05-25T13:36:00.001-07:00

Yes, my web site and brand of speaking teaches others to not give up. However, you and I can at times choose the wrong person or project to invest our energy in. Sometimes we ignore our intuition. Sometimes red flags are waving that it is time to escape, get out and get out without guilt. I believe there are times we should get out of a futile situation while we are ahead.

The word “futile” means… incapable of producing any result; ineffective; useless; not successful: unavailing, fruitless, frivolous, unimportant, dull, flat, fruitless, futile, lackluster, profitless, stale, uninspiring, unproductive, unrewarding, useless, in vain, at end of one’s rope, back to the wall, can’t win, dead duck, despairing, despondent, downcast, forlorn, goner, hard up, in the soup, in the toilet, inconsolable, irrecoverable, irremediable, irretrievable, no-chance, no-way, no-win, running out of time, sad, sunk, up against it, up the creek, useless.

Quitting when your situation is futile should not be confused with a “do not give up” message. Quitting while you are ahead should not be confused with the habit of giving up too soon. Wisdom will help you to know when it’s time to quit or stick with a person, project, pursuit, your plans or place of employment. Sometimes people don’t have enough sense, enough courage or enough faith to quit some one or some thing. So God will end it or “they” will end it for you. Getting laid off a job or a person ending a relationship because you couldn’t do it, is the only way the futile efforts will stop.

Don’t confuse persistence with insistence. There are some people and circumstances that you can not control. Wisdom comes as you learn to let go of projects, people or perplexing situations and give them to God. There are some relationships, pursuits, projects and places of employment that can cost you if you stay in it too long. Yes, you should persist with your goals and self-improvement. Yes, you should not be easily defeated or distracted.

The questions I pose to you now are… “Are you letting your pride, denial, low self-esteem, fear or lack of faith keep you in a fruitless, uninspiring and no-win situation? Will you persist on worthy pursuits and people? Do you have the courage to stop insisting and pushing as you keep running into walls or resistance? Can you discern when to know that your efforts and persistence will yield reward in the future? Can you discern when you have reached a limit, a dead end and your pride/ego won’t allow you to let go? During your times of insistence and frustration … remember theSerenity Prayer.

There is a time to quit and there are times you need to hear “Don’t give up.” Quit smoking, gossiping, wasting time and giving your body, money, power and peace of mind away to people and pursuits that only rob, destroy and drain you. Quit a project, job or relationship that is abusive or not lined up with your values and vision. Milk is good until it’s expiration date. Sometimes people stay way too long after the expiration date and everything becomes sour. Have you stayed too long or have you been distracted or unfocused causing you to give up too soon on worthy pursuits? Are your hopes, dreams, energy and time hanging on to something that is futile or can it bear fruit and reward in due season? ~ by Jewel Diamond Taylor

Still Stand in Spite of it All

2010-05-25T13:33:00.001-07:00

When you feel at your wits end with stress, pain and a world that seems to be falling apart…remember only the strong survive.

You may feel forsaken, overwhelmed, exhausted and afraid.

Maybe your finances, relationships, health, doubt and hard circumstances make you feel like your world has turned upside down. Maybe you feel like there is no secure ground to stand on to support you.

For those in grief, Christ offers comfort. For those full of heartache or physical pain, He offers hope and healing. To those who carry emotional burdens and broken dreams, Christ offers His strength. For those who struggle, He offers rest.

After the dust clears from dreams dropped, a job shattered, falling finances or the banging sound of change, you can still find a place of inner peace. The Lord changes not and stands ready to guide and provide for you and your family. Seek His comfort. Study His word. Surrender to His way. Keep your hope and trust in the Lord even when everything around you seems hopeless. Believe in God’s restoration and resurrection power for your life. You can rise again.

(Cross still standing the midst of rubble after Haiti earthquake)

Even during life’s darkest hours, confidently speak these words from Romans, “nothing can separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:31-39).

My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest. (Exodus 33:14)

It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (Deuteronomy 33:27)

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. (Psalm 9:9-10)

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. (Psalm 46:1-3)

Coping With Seasons of Life

2010-05-25T13:30:00.001-07:00

Life is like a book with many chapters we call seasons. Some chapters tell the story of love, drama, comedy, mystery, loss, adversity, growth, disappointment, triumph, etc. Some chapters are dull and ordinary, others intense and exciting. The key to enduring, persevering and being hopeful is to never stop on a difficult page, to never quit on a tough chapter that seems too long. Some chapters may be sweet but too short. Your words, thoughts, actions, non-action and choices are the pens that write the pages in your book. Have the courage and faith to keep turning the pages believing better chapters lie ahead.God is the author and finisher of your life. Trust. Listen. Believe. Grow in God’s word. Activate your gifts and talents. Be creative. Be kind. Be patient. Be faithful. Be grateful. Be fruitful.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;” …~ Ecclesiastes 3:1-22

He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; ~ Daniel 2:21
He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority.”~ Acts 1:7
This message is an excerpt from Jewel Diamond Taylor’s e-book “Heal Your Mind and Your Behind Will Follow” – get your copy today at www.DoNotGiveUp.net/BooksCDs.htm

REMEMBER – if you wish to have your encouragement newsletter sent to your email address – send your request to JewelMotivates@gmail.com to begin receiving your Success Gems e-Newsletter and calendar updates.VISIT TODAY and INVITE your e-mail list to visit www.DoNotGiveUp.net

Get up!

2010-05-25T13:18:00.001-07:00

So often we allow procrastination, fear, the blame game and pity parties keep us down and out. Every day is a precious new gift to get up and get it right. Procrastination is a thief. Depression is a set up to make you give up.

I love the lyrics of Mary Mary's song "Get Up" Here are the lyrics...
Layin’ low
Rest n’ pause
Sleeping long
Slow motion
Gonna do, Shoulda, coulda
Woulda done, Excuses
What are you afraid of?
Don’t you know
What you’re made of?
One of God’s greatest creations
Take this invitation now
Get up
‘Cause you can’t stop
Get up
Got a lot to do
24 hours
Almost gone
Get up
Don’t sit there
Get up
If you wanna get there
Clocks don’t stop and time won’t wait
He said
She said
They said
What do you say?
It’s your dreams
Your choice
Your time
Your life
So don’t you
Don’t you miss it
What are you afraid of?
Don’t you know
What you’re made of?
One of God’s greatest creations
Take this invitation now
Get up
‘Cause you can’t stop
Get up
Got a lot to do
24 hours
Almost gone
Get up
Don’t sit there
Get up
If you wanna get there
Clocks don’t stop and time won’t wait
Welcome to the rest
Of your life
From now on, just try
To live more, want more
Work a little harder
Dance more, laugh more
Be a little smarter
Hug a little longer
Love a little stronger
You’ve been down
But now it’s time to
Get up
‘Cause you can’t stop
Get up
Got a lot to do
24 hours
Almost gone
Get up
Don’t sit there
Get up
If you wanna get there
Clocks don’t stop and
Time won’t wait (2x)
One more time, say
Get up
To see and enjoy the video click here

How to Stop Emotional Eating

2010-05-25T13:11:00.001-07:00

Are you an "emotional eater"?
Do you eat in stressful situations?
Do you eat when you are bored?
Do you “reward” yourself with food?
Do you eat when you are feeling down?
Do you eat to calm yourself down when angry?
Do you EAT in hiding to pretend you’re not eating a lot?
Do you prefer to eat “sweets” when you are alone?
   Do you feel a “pay-off” when you eat?

Do you feel invisible, indifferent and unappreciated?
Does the SHAME and GUILT appear after you have eaten

If you try to STOP yourself from feeling an emotion BY EATING,

you are an emotional eater beyond “normal.”

Emotional eaters will do it compulsory. It becomes a natural reaction

to “substitute” feelings with food.

If you replace food with feelings such as anger, stress, pride, anxiety, sadness, fear,

unhappiness, loneliness and hurt; you ARE an emotional eater.
Symptoms to recognize an emotional eater:

Eating when you feel sad or depressed.

Eating to reward yourself.

Eating when you are bored.
Eating when you are stressed.
Eating when you feel overwhelmed and helpless in your ability to help yourself or
   help your loved ones.
Eating when you need to fill the emptiness of grief or sadness.
You think more about OTHERS and your self-care suffers.
You don't see yourself as a priority in the family.
You have low self-esteem.
You feel ugly, ashamed and unworthy from past abuse.
You hide the hurt inside us.

Food has psychic power to soothe your emotional pain.
Instead of giving voice to your anger or pain, you may eat in silence.
You say to yourself..."Eating helps me stop thinking about how much I hate my life or my body."...
"Shopping for my body is so depressing, it's easier to find something to eat than
something to wear." .... I'm sad so I'll eat another piece of cake"..."Nobody loves me or listens to
me so I'll just go down stairs to get a bag of potato chips"..."I can't stand my job so I'm stopping
to get my donuts and latte coffee before I go to work."..."I'm so angry at him so I'm eating some
cookies and a whole carton of ice cream."

If you're waiting to be inspired with a great burst of energy to start exercising and eating
better... it may never happen.

Unfortunately, too many of us learn that desperation, not inspiration,
is the motivation they gets us up and moving towards positive changes and relief from stress,
lack of energy, weight gain and a low self-image.

I've seen in my own life how dissatisfaction has led me to action.
Looking at photographs of myself and facing the truth on the scale took me out of denial.
Photographs, weight scales and blood pressure monitoring don't lie. They reveal what is
happening in your body.

Let your dissatisfaction motivate you to action.
Are you dissatisfied with your weight and lack of energy?
Take action!
Stop talking about your issues. Stop the blaming and the excuses. Health is your first wealth.
Your body will turn against you unless you learn to take care of it. As Americans, we eat too
much fatty, frozen, fried and fast foods.
Your eating pattern is developed over time from taste, habit, misinformation, peer pressure
and media pressure. Poor eating can only lead to expensive medical bills, loss time from work,
stress and a shorter life span.

Instead of allowing the pain and dissatisfaction to frustrate you,
let it motivate you to start doing what needs to be done.
Peace, progress and weight reduction can begin...once you begin.

Health is your first wealth. No degree, car, diamonds, rims or awards can replace the

blessing of good health. Make sure you are doing the right thing to protect and maintain

your health. Don't wait until bad news knocks at your door. Be proactive and start today

to practice living a healthy lifestyle. Say no to anyone and anything that can deteriorate

your health. (i.e. sweets, drugs, fatty foods, fast foods, tobacco, unprotected sex, caffeine,

colas, stress, lack of rest, lack of exercise and worry). Take your joy, health and energy

to a new level. Start today because it's the first day of the rest of your life.

Read the e-booklet for 21 days consistently
(e-mail download, easy, effective, empowering)
25+ Effective Ways to Lose Weight and Feel Better
You can do it!
"My beloved I pray that you may prosper in all things
and be in good health just as your soul prospers." ~ 3 John 2

Angels Watching Over You

2010-05-25T12:51:00.001-07:00

Angels are around you. Appointed angels follow you.

When you cross the street or traveling on the road,

watching over you at work and as you carry your heavy load,

in the classroom, court room, board room or in the hospital bed,

when you fight temptation, anger and persecution,

when you are going through the valley,

when you're feeling lost, forgotten and your way you cannot see,

when you're feeling alone and not feeling fine,

when you're in the airport, store, the bank or unemployment line,

as you provide for your family and helping others without,

when you're feeling scared, worried or have doubt,

when times are good or not the best, your angels are not far from

you or your loved ones hovering around and above.

listen to hear their gentle whispers saying...

"You are covered. You are blessed and loved."

~ by Jewel Diamond Taylor

With over three hundred scriptural references,
these celestial servants occupy an unquestioned role in the Bible.

If you believe in God's Word, you've got to believe in angels.

If your spiritual eyes would open... Moms and dads, you'd see angels

escorting your child to school. Travelers... you'd see angels encircling

the airplane. Patients... you'd see angels monitoring the moves of the

surgeon, and to those who grieve...

you would see angels sent to comfort you.

The heavens are telling of God and His glory.
Oh, what a mighty God we serve.

The Angels bow before Him.
Heaven and earth adore Him.

Love Hangover

2010-05-25T12:48:00.001-07:00

I'm from the "old school music" generation and I can remember Diana Ross singing, "I got the sweetest hangover and I don't wanna get over my sweet hangover." That lovehangover makes your head and your heart hurt. You're confused. Everything is blurry. Day after day you drink from the cup of misery asking, "Why won't he call me...where is he (she)...I miss him (her)...I wonder what he's doing?...I can't think. I can't eat. I can't sleep. I wonder if I ever cross his (her) mind?
Ain't it great to grow and mature to realize you can't make somebody love you? Ain't it great to grow and realize you've got to find yourself before you find someone to share your life with? Ain't it great to stop drinking from the cup of misery? You know what I'm talking about...that needy love -one sided love - one less egg to fry - can't breathe again - that boy is mine - surely you want me back - I wish it would rain - I'm gonna knock on your door and tap on your window pane kinda of love.
Just say "no" to drinking from the cup misery before it gives you a hangover. Start sipping from the cup of wholeness, self-esteem, self-worth and self-respect. Give your heart time to get sober and healed. ~ by Jewel Diamond Taylor, the Self-esteem Dr.

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Marriage Prayer

2010-05-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

"Thank you Lord for teaching us how to make You the center of our marriage. Humble us to grow beyond our ego, pride and past hurts. Help us to establish and grow the love Christ in us to show each other kindness, trust, patience, forgiveness and divine love. Help me Lord to honor the qualities of my mate. Teach me how to pray for my spouse.

Empower me with courage to speak up for anything out of order in our relationship. Soften my tongue and heart where it has become like stone. Strengthen my flesh and self-esteem where it has become weak.

Whenever we lose the gratitude and passion for each other, guide us in ways to relight the candle of passion that can burn out from stress and time. Bless us to not only see, but honor one another. Help us to not only listen, but hear each other. Bless us to not only cherish one another, but nourish each other's dreams and spiritual gifts. Bless our marriage for the glory of God and to offer a legacy
of love, commitment and caring for our family and community.

We surrender our marriage and our personal power struggles to You. Teach us to be less controlling and more collaborative in our decisions and problem solving skills. Quicken our minds so we may know how to please, protect and provide for each other. Bless our union to grow stronger, wiser, peaceful and committed. Bring into our circle of friends, examples of healthy committed marriages. Let our children, family and friends see Christ through our example.

Thank you Lord for covering our home with your grace, mercy and favor. Today is a new day that I choose to love, respect and serve my spouse. Give us both the wisdom, patience, love and faith not to give up on each other." ~ written by Jewel Diamond Taylor

Addiction Recovery

2010-05-25T12:43:00.000-07:00

People do recover, every single day, from alcoholism and drug addiction, abuse and trauma, dual diagnosis, gambling, codependency and more. But they rarely do it alone. I applaud you and say "good for you" because you are seeking a way out of a dark hole. You can be in the darkness so long that you don't even know you are in darkness because you've gotten use to it.

My parent's divorce, my stepfather's control issues, my marriage problems, the death of my Mother from breast cancer and my low self-esteem were big issues that led me to unhealthy coping habits. Shopping and the disease to please others were my addictions. When life brings us change, pain, pressure and stress, we want to escape it, deny it, control it, change it, change "them" or rescue "them". Our challenge is to be still, feel, deal with our situation and eventually heal without some artificial stimulation and temporary high. I believe when your will to stop is strong, God will do the rest. I have spoken to many recovery groups and often share my affirmation below. ~ Jewel Diamond Taylor

RECOVERY AFFIRMATION by Jewel Diamond Taylor

“I am a loving, divine and worthy person. I have courage, self- esteem, self-control and faith to endure this challenging time. I am led by the Spirit to do the right thing for me and those I care about. I am willing to think and choose the right way for my highest good. I, alone, am responsible for my happiness, health, choices and well-being.

I forgive myself and others and move forward in peace, truth and clarity. I am thankful for the people who come into my life bringing support, joy and unconditional love.

Whatever anxiety, fear or stress I feel now will pass away. I observe and overcome what I’m thinking and feeling without giving into my cravings and habitual escape patterns to avoid what I’m living through right now. I take back my personal power and give no one consent to rob me of my progress and peace of mind. Even though my heart is breaking or my thoughts are racing with fear, temptation, anger, shame or depression, I trust myself to do the right thing. Right now I choose serenity. I choose to breathe through this moment. I choose to stay in peace instead of falling to pieces. I choose to “grow” forward instead of falling backward. My faith is stronger than my fears. I can train my brain and heal my heart. Everything is already all right. Today is a good day because I can make it so with my thoughts, prayers and actions. I am too blessed to be stressed. As I let go of my “poor me” attitude, I focus on my progress…not perfection. Every day I am growing stronger and stronger.

by Motivational Speaker Jewel Diamond Taylor www.DoNotGiveUp.net

“Jewel…I want to say thank you for your newsletter. As I read the one sent today, I was almost frozen in my spirit from the work you do. I felt that I was OK and that my life would be OK. I had to take a minute and thank God for life and today. I had to thank Him for allowing you to do the work you do.

I have a gambling problem that has ruined me financially that I am trying to overcome, and today was a challenge. I talked to myself all day to make sure I didn't go to the casino. I even left the house on my way there and something said don’t go, go buy yourself some dinner and go home and eat it and have some quiet time for yourself and that is what I did. I overcame all of the negative conversation I was having with myself and overcame going to the casino for today.

I was checking my email and there was one of your newsletters and as I read it, something came over me and I realized that your Motivational Gems are truly Gems and I wanted to let you know that they have made a difference in my life and to tell you to keep up the good work. Thank you very much.” ~ Beverly M. – Detroit, MI

The Lord is my sponsor, I shall not want.

He makes me to go to many meetings.
He leads me to sit back, relax and listen with an open mind.
He restores my soul, my sanity and my health.
He leads me in the path of sobriety, serenity and fellowship for my own sake.
He teaches me to think, to take it easy, to live and let live and do first things first.
He makes me more humble and grateful.
He teaches me to accept the things I cannot change, to change the things I can and gives me the wisdom to know the difference.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of despair, frustration, guilt and remorse, I will fear no evil.
For Thou are with me, your yoke and your way of life, comforts me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies: rationalization, fear, anxiety, self-pity, resentment.
You anoint my confused mind and jangled nerves with knowledge, understanding and hope.
No longer am I alone, neither am I afraid, nor sicken, nor helpless, nor hopeless.
My cups runs over.
Surely sobriety, serenity, mercy and grace shall follow me every day of my life,
one day at a time, twenty-four hours at a time.
As I surrender my will to You and carry Your message to others, I will dwell in the house of the Lord, as I understand Him, one day at a time, forever and ever. Amen
I trust God within me to open news doors to opportunity, serenity and prosperity.

G.O.D.(God Opens Doors)

H.O.W. - Honesty, Open-mindedness, Willingness

Just For Today

Just for today I will try to live through this day only and not tackle my whole life problem at once.

Just for today I will adjust myself to what is and not try to adjust everything else to my desires.
Just for today I will try to strengthen my mind. I will study; I will learn something useful; I will not be a mental loafer; I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration.
Just for today I will exercise my soul in three ways: I will do somebody a good turn anonymously; if anybody knows of it, it will not count; I will do at least two things I don’t want to do–just for exercise. I will not show anyone that my feelings are hurt; they may be hurt, but today I will not show it.
Just for today I will be agreeable. I will look as good as I can, dress becomingly, talk low, act courteously, criticize no one, not find fault with anything and not try to improve or regulate anybody except myself.
Just for today I will pray and know that my serenity and clean living is a daily
process. I will build up my strength to discipline my emotions and cravings.

Just for today I will have a quiet half hour all by myself and relax. During this time, I will try to get a better perspective on my life.
Just for today I will be unafraid. I will enjoy that which is beautiful and pleasing
in God's sight.

I am precious in God's sight.
It is a victory, not a failure, to admit that I cannot control my problems, for then I can turn to my God and begin to find serenity.
It is helpful to take an honest look at myself, face the true feelings and communicate honestly.
It is an act of courage, not shame, to admit any wrong I've done and ask forgiveness of God, myself and others.
It is healthy to accept and love myself, and to let others love me, because like everyone else, I'm worthy and deserving of love and a good life.
It is O.K. to trust myself and others, I can be responsible for myself, as others can be for themselves.
It is possible for me to be happy, since happiness depends on myself and my attitude, not on things or other people.
It is possible for me to recover, If I believe I can and I'm willing to take the necessary action for change.
It is better to set realistic goals for change; I can accomplish them one step at a time and one day at a time. I can't do it all, or do it perfectly, but I can do something. If I fail, It's okay - there's no failure except in not trying.
It is all right to set limits to keep myself sane and serene. It's okay to let things go that cannot be changed or do not matter.
It is good to take the time to stay in touch with myself and God through prayer and meditation.