Tag Archives: Barry Demp

When you savor the moment

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When you savor the moment, you’ll discover more moments to savor.

—Calm App Reflection

Image from Unsplash by Shantung Kulkarni

Today’s quote beautifully captures the essence of mindful living.

By immersing ourselves in the present — whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee, a heartfelt conversation, or a quiet sunset — we train our minds to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

This practice not only enriches our current experience but also heightens our awareness, making us more attuned to future joy.

When we savor moments, we create a positive feedback loop, attracting more meaningful experiences.

In our fast-paced world, slowing down to truly enjoy the “now” can transform ordinary days into extraordinary days.

EXERCISE:

Take a few deliberate pauses throughout your day to fully immerse yourself in the current experience without rushing to the next task.

Explore all five of your senses in these moments to heighten your awareness and appreciation of these times, making them even richer and more memorable.

Friday Review: AMBITION

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Friday Review: AMBITION

How well-defined are your ambitions? Here are a few related posts you may have missed.

 

“If there is something to gain and nothing to lose by asking, by all means ask.”

 

 

 

 

“Don’t aim for consistently heroic efforts. Aim for being heroic at consistency.”

 

 

 

 

“Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in.”

 

 

 

 

 

Fix your eyes forward on what you can do

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“Fix your eyes forward on what you can do, not back on what you cannot change.”

—Tom Clancy, American author and screenwriter

Image from Unsplash by Daniel Herman

Today’s quote reminds us to channel our energy into the present and future rather than dwelling on past mistakes or circumstances beyond our control.

By focusing on actionable steps and opportunities ahead, we empower ourselves to grow, adapt, and succeed.

Letting go of regret and frustration frees mental space for creativity and resilience.

In life’s journey, progress comes from forward momentum — embracing what’s possible today instead of being anchored by yesterday’s limitations.

EXERCISE:

How does dwelling on the past affect your present and future?

What are some practical everyday ways to fix your eyes forward to create a future filled with more realized possibilities?

The best thing one can do when it is raining

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“The best thing one can do when it is raining is to let it rain.”

—Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 19th Century American Poet and Professor

Image from Unsplash by Ben Wicks

Today’s nugget of wisdom embodies a philosophy of acceptance and resilience, embracing life’s inevitable challenges without resistance.

Instead of fighting life’s storms, Longfellow chooses to flow with them, illustrating a mindset that likely contributed to his long life.

His approach encourages us to accept difficulties calmly and adaptively, reducing stress and fostering greater peace of mind.

In a world often obsessed with control, Longfellow’s wisdom reminds us that sometimes, surrendering to circumstances can be the healthiest path.

Letting the rain fall — literally and metaphorically — might be a key to enduring vitality and happiness.

EXERCISE:

How often do you find yourself fighting with the rainy days of your life?

Take a few minutes to watch this uplifting clip from the movie “Singing in the Rain” with Gene Kelly to shift your perspective on at least some of the downpours in your days.

The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness.

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“The most certain sign of wisdom is cheerfulness.”

—Michel de Montaigne, 16th Century French Renaissance philosopher

Image from Unsplash by Allen Vinicius

Today’s quote is a reminder that true wisdom isn’t just about knowledge or intellect — it’s about maintaining a joyful and positive outlook on life.

Cheerfulness reflects an inner peace and understanding that challenges and setbacks are part of the human experience.

Wise individuals embrace life’s complexities with grace and optimism, inspiring those around them.

In today’s fast-paced world Montaigne’s words encourage us to cultivate happiness as a sign of deep wisdom, showing that a cheerful spirit can illuminate even the darkest moments.

Ultimately, wisdom and joy go hand in hand, creating a fulfilling and balanced life.

EXERCISE:

In what ways can you see cheerfulness as a sign of wisdom?

How can you find more joy in simple things and approach each day with a lighter touch?

Family, friends, or phone. Which one is your top priority?

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Family, friends, or phone. Which one is your top priority?

—Calm App Reflection

Image from Unsplash by Slavcho Malezan

Today’s quote challenges us to reflect on our true connections.

While our smartphones seem to keep us constantly connected, they can often create distance from the people who matter most.

Prioritizing meaningful relationships over screen time fosters deeper bonds, emotional support, and lasting memories.

It’s easy to be distracted by notifications, but real-life interactions nourish our well-being in ways a phone never can.

EXERCISE:

To what degree are you hugging your phone more often than family and friends?

What strategies can and will you put in place to show these important people that they come first?

Friday Review: Acceptance

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Friday Review: Acceptance

What is the hardest part of acceptance for you? Here are a few related posts you may have missed.

“Whoever is soft and yielding is a disciple of life. The hard and stiff will be broken. The soft and supple will prevail.”

 

 

 

 

“Accept this moment as if you had chosen it.”

 

 

 

 

 

“To thine own self be nice.”

 

 

 

 

 

My inside age is timeless

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“My inside age is timeless. I’m every age I’ve ever been.”

—Anne Lamott, American novelist, essayist, and political activist

Image from Unsplash by Joel & Jasmin Fǿrestbird

I’m not just one age — I’m every age I’ve ever been, all at once.

Inside me lives the curiosity of my childhood, the boundless potential of my teens, the restless ambitions of my twenties, and the quiet wisdom of now.

Time doesn’t cage me; it layers me.

My inside age is timeless, a kaleidoscope of moments, emotions, and experiences that refuse to fade.

To be every age simultaneously is to live beyond the limits society tries to impose.

Who says you have to grow up or grow old?

EXERCISE:

Consider yourself all the rings of an ancient oak tree where each year of your life forms a new layer visible only when you look beneath the surface.

In doing this, you can examine every storm and ray of sunshine that has brought you to today.

“Helping is the sunny side of control.”

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“Helping is the sunny side of control.”

—Anne Lamott, American novelist, essayist, and political activist

Image from Unsplash by Thomas Gaertner

Offering help can seem positive, but when it’s used as a subtle form of control, it brings real risk.

Over-helping can undermine a person’s autonomy, robbing them of the chance to learn and grow through their own experiences. This can foster dependency, making it harder for people to solve problems on their own and eroding their confidence.

Relationships may suffer too, as recipients feel patronized or resentful, while “helpers” risk burnout and can lose their sense of self.

Blurred boundaries often follow, making it tough to tell genuine support from intrusive interference.

Ultimately, even well-intended help can harm both giver and receiver if it crosses the line.

EXERCISE:

Where in your world do you notice the not so sunny side of helping others?

How can you make sure your assistance empowers instead of controls others in your personal and professional communities?

Food, Try to do a little better

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“Food, Try to do a little better.”

——Anne Lamott, American novelist, essayist, and political activist

Image from Unsplash by Emanuel Ekström

Food is much more than fuel for our bodies — it’s a powerful connector of culture, memory, and emotion. Every meal tells a story, reflecting traditions, family bonds, and personal creativity.

Good food nourishes not only the body but also the soul, bringing comfort and joy. It has the unique ability to bring people together, sparking conversation and celebration.

Yet, food also challenges us to do better — choosing healthier, sustainable options that respect both our well-being and the planet.

When we say “Food, try to do better” it’s a call to be mindful to emphasize quality, embrace diversity, reduce waste, and appreciate the journey from farm to our tables.

In every bite lies an opportunity to nourish ourselves and the world around us.

EXERCISE:

Consider watching the Netflix movie, Nonnas.

It’s a heartwarming story of an Italian restaurant staffed by grandmothers, bringing authentic family recipes to life and creating a new sense of community through food.