Encouraging Cup Podcast episode 8

January, 2025 Show Notes: "Choices: Aligning Decisions with Values"

Episode Summary In this episode, we explore the power of choices as we begin a new year. It’s a time to reflect on our goals, values, and the steps required to create a life aligned with who we truly are. We discuss how fear often influences decisions, the importance of making congruent and committed choices, and the courage it takes to face discomfort as a sign of growth.

Key Points:

• The Power of Choices: Every decision shapes who we are more than our abilities. Small daily actions compound to help achieve long-term goals.
• Values-Driven Decisions: Choices are a reflection of what we value, but fear can sometimes misalign our actions with our core beliefs.
• Fear vs. Growth: Fear often drives “safe” decisions, but these may not serve us. Embrace fear as a potential indicator of meaningful opportunities or growth.
• Learning Through Action: Trying and failing provides valuable feedback, not failure. Choosing action over inaction is vital for progress.
• Aligned Commitments: A congruent, committed decision aligns with our values and long-term goals. These intentional choices help us become the person we aspire to be.
• Daily Steps Matter: Focus on incremental progress by identifying small, manageable actions that lead to larger outcomes.
• Empowerment in Ownership: Ultimately, the responsibility for our lives lies with us. Aligning decisions with who we are ensures a fulfilling and purposeful life.

Quotes from the Episode:

• "Our choices show what we truly are far more than our abilities."
• "Most people don’t choose what they want; they choose what they think is safe."
• "Your life changes the moment you make a new congruent and committed decision."

Reflection Questions for Listeners:

1. Are your recent choices aligned with your values and long-term goals?
2. How often does fear influence your decisions?
3. What small step can you take today toward your larger goal?

Action Step: Reflect on one area of your life where fear might be holding you back. Identify a small, courageous action you can take to move forward.

The podcast ends with this simple question: "What is it that you really want?"

Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight

In this episode of the Encouraging Cup podcast, we delve into the powerful saying: 'Fall down seven times and stand up eight.'

Reflecting on resilience and a daily choice to get back up, after setbacks. Success doesn't meant never failing. Maybe the road to success needs a lot of trial and error... learning, growing, persevering. Small steps, micro wins are worth celebrating.

Consider the process of learning to walk. It can take a while, but we keep trying. We can get curious about self-sabotage. We can be crushed by an inner critic, but maybe there's a way of letting that critic share helpful info with us, without feeling put down.

00:00 Introduction to the Encouraging Cup Podcast

00:22 Defining Success: Getting Up One More Time

00:51 Assessing When to Give Up

01:29 The Importance of Perseverance

02:02 Personal Reflections on Falling Down

04:05 Learning to Walk: A Metaphor for Life

10:01 The Role of the Inner Critic and Cheerleader

13:29 Encouragement to Keep Going

15:22 Conclusion: let the snowboarding kid inspire you!

Here's a video of a mic'd up little snowboarder, enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MV3FoyrFu5k

Morning Affirmation: "I have all I need to make this a great day."

Today we are invited to explore what makes a day great, emphasizing the importance of attitude and gratitude.

Various perspectives on a perfect day, whether it's being productive, spending time with loved ones, learning something new, or simply enjoying nature.

Listeners might like to reflect on their own definitions of a great day.

Maybe a positive outlook and appreciation for what one has could transform any day into a great one.

The significance of relationships and the power of changing one's mindset to cultivate a sense of gratitude.

00:00 Morning Affirmation: Setting the Tone

00:18 Defining a Great Day: What Does It Mean?

01:47 Personal Reflections on a Great Day

03:41 Gratitude and Perspective: Keys to a Great Day

06:34 The Importance of Relationships

09:22 Changing Perspectives: Making Every Day Great

12:04 Final Thoughts: Embracing Gratitude