Day 30 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

CELEBRATE!



Celebrate the completion of the challenge! Take yourself to dinner at your favorite restaurant or treat yourself to a massage. Whatever it is, do something special for yourself as a reward for completing this challenge.

You did it! You made it to the end of the 30 day Inspired Living Challenge. While some parts of the challenge were a breeze, you probably felt stretched in other parts. Nevertheless, here we are at the end. What will you do now? You have the opportunity to continue down this path of inspired living by incorporating parts of this challenge into your life on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. Don't slip back into old habits...use the momentum of this daily challenge to catapult you to new levels of personal and professional success.

Thank you for joining me on this wonderful journey!

As a special reward, I'm giving away prizes to the people who email me at letterstolisa@adivinebook.com with reflections of their experience on the challenge. Whether it was easy or hard, whether you skipped or day or 2 and made them up, whether you loved or hated it, share your thoughts with me. What was it like? Did you enjoy it? What did you do when you were challenged? What will you do now that it's over?

Every entry will WIN!

Thank you again and may God richly bless you as you continue living your Inspired Life!

Day 29 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

MAKE TIME FOR SOMETHING YOU'VE BEEN PUTTING OFF



Procrastination is the enemy of the inspired life! Do something today that you've been putting off.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Carve out time in your schedule today for something you've been putting off.

Why? - One day easily turns into 1 week when it comes to procrastination. Even with the best of intentions, we easily find ourselves with a high pile of unfiled papers, unsent emails, trips not taken, and more. You deserve to get things done in an orderly fashion. Taking the time out to do the things you've been meaning to do can put you on the track to higher levels of productivity.

How? - Set aside an hour today for this task. Make a list of the things you haven't gotten around to doing and get started on the list today. Continue to set aside an hour each day or every other day until you finish the list. No procrastinating!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 28 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

CALL A FRIEND TO CATCH UP!



With our lives jam packed, it's easy to drift out of touch with friends and family. Call a friend today!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Call a friend or family member to catch up on life.

Why? - It's often tempting to vegetate at home in front of the TV or computer screen. But consider what doctors say is key to staying happy and healthy: socializing.

Research shows that not staying connected poses similar risks to your health as high blood pressure, obesity and even smoking. As staggering as that is, a trend toward smaller social networks and fewer close confidants is growing.

"More Americans in the last 20 years say that they have fewer close friends or people in their lives with whom they can discuss important matters," says Duke University sociologist Lynn Smith-Lovin. "What ties to a close-knit group of people does is create a safety net."

Doctors agree, and say that a good chat or a regular girls' or guys' night out can do even more.

"Feeling cared for and supported within a social network is particularly important for women in fostering self-care," says Todd Jackson, PhD, author of a 2006 study linking high levels of social support and community involvement with healthier diet, exercise and sleep habits, among other positive effects.

Think of it as a new kind of "friends with benefits" -- health benefits.

How? - Set aside some time today to call a friend or family member. If you don't get an answer, try again in a couple of days.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 27 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

OFFER TO HELP SOMEONE



Extend a helping hand to someone who may need help.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Help a person in need.

Why? - Giving is a powerful way to improve our own mental and emotional health. What we give to others comes back to us. In the spirit of being the change we wish to see in the world, giving is a great way to set positive energy in motion.

How? - Whether it's helping an overloaded coworker or helping an elderly person across the street, look for an opportunity to help someone who needs you!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 26 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

WATCH A COMEDY OR ATTEND A COMEDY SHOW



Laughter is good for the soul! Enjoy some jokes today!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Laugh! Watch a funny movie or watch your favorite comedy on television. Or go out and see a live comedy show.

Why? - Laughter is a powerful antidote to stress, pain, and conflict. Nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. Humor lightens your burdens, inspires hopes, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded, focused, and alert.

With so much power to heal and renew, the ability to laugh easily and frequently is a tremendous resource for surmounting problems, enhancing your relationships, and supporting both physical and emotional health.

Laughter makes you feel good. And the good feeling that you get when you laugh remains with you even after the laughter subsides. Humor helps you keep a positive, optimistic outlook through difficult situations, disappointments, and loss.

More than just a respite from sadness and pain, laughter gives you the courage and strength to find new sources of meaning and hope. Even in the most difficult of times, a laugh–or even simply a smile–can go a long way toward making you feel better. And laughter really is contagious—just hearing laughter primes your brain and readies you to smile and join in on the fun.

How? - You can get more laughter in your life with the following strategies:

* T.V. and Movies: There's no shortage of laughter opportunities from the entertainment, both at the theater and in the aisles of the video stores, as well as at home with T.V. comedies. While wasting your time watching something marginally funny may actually frustrate you, watching truly hilarious movies and shows is an easy way to get laughter into your life whenever you need it.

* Laugh With Friends: Going to a movie or comedy club with friends is a great way to get more laughter in your life. The contagious effects of laughter may mean you'll laugh more than you otherwise would have during the show, plus you'll have jokes to reference at later times. Having friends over for a party or game night is also a great setup for laughter and other good feelings.

* Find Humor In Your Life: Instead of complaining about life's frustrations, try to laugh about them. If something is so frustrating or depressing it's ridiculous, realize that you could 'look back on it and laugh.' Think of how it will sound as a story you could tell to your friends, and then see if you can laugh about it now. With this attitude, you may also find yourself being more lighthearted and silly, giving yourself and those around you more to laugh about. Approach life in a more mirthful way and you'll find you're less stressed about negative events, and you'll achieve the health benefits of laughter. (See this article on maintaining a sense of humor.

* 'Fake It Until You Make It': Just as studies show the positive effects of smiling occur whether the smile is fake or real, faked laughter also provides the benefits mentioned above. So smile more, and fake laughter; you'll still achieve positive effects, and the fake merriment may lead to real smiles and laughter.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 25 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

FIX THINGS THAT ARE BROKEN



Think about the things in your life that need to be repaired. Make a list and start repairing things today!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Fix things that need to be broken. Whether a watch, a bookshelf, or a relationship, fix the things that need to be fixed and discard those that can't be repaired.

Why? - Your life can only be as functional and healthy as the things in it. Things that are broken cannot serve you the way they should. Being in the habit of fixing broken things reminds you that you are a whole being who should enjoy the fullness of life. Broken things don't operate at 100%! Abundance is at its highest when all the pieces of our lives are working together.

How? - Survey your home, office, car, relationships, wardrobe and more. Repair things that need your healing touch!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 24 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

HUG 5 PEOPLE!



Offer your hug to 5 people today.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Hug 5 people today. They can be good friends, family members, or even total strangers.

Why? - Hugging is a miracle medicine that can relieve many physical and emotional problems. Physicians often tell their patients to use hugging as part of their treatment for pain. To be held can be enormously therapeutic.

Researchers have discovered that hugging can help you live longer, protect against illness, cure depression and stress, strengthen family relationships, and even help you sleep without pills. They have discovered that when a person is touched, the amount of hemoglobin in their blood increases significantly. Hemoglobin is the part of the blood that carries vital supplies of oxygen to all organs of the body, including the heart and the brain. An increase in hemoglobin tones up the whole body, helps prevent disease, and speeds recovery from illness.

Many psychiatrists are convinced that the tender embrace can prevent or cure a host of different problems. Hugs can have an astonishing therapeutic effect by providing a sense of companionship and happiness. Studies have shown that people who are mentally run-down and depressed are far more prone to sickness than those who are not. Hugging can lift depression, enabling the body's immune system to become "tuned up." Hugging breathes fresh life into a tired body and makes you feel younger and more vibrant.

How? - Ask for permission & then give genuine, loving hugs! Hug your spouse, your children, friends, and relatives. You'll both feel great!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 23 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

PURCHASE & USE CANVAS BAGS FOR SHOPPING



Use canvas bags instead of plastic bags for shopping.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Purchase canvas bags to use for shopping.

Why? - From an environmental perspective, canvas grocery bags are better choices than paper or plastic bags. Canvas tends to be more environmentally friendly to produce than paper or plastic, and because these bags are designed to be re-used, consumers get a lot of mileage out of a single bag. Turning to re-usable supplies is viewed as more environmentally friendly than using disposable products, many of which wind up in landfills because a community lacks the ability to recycle them.

Plastic grocery bags have a number of environmental drawbacks, with the use of petroleum being only one example. When plastic grocery bags are not recycled or landfilled, they end up in the natural environment, where they can cause a wide range of problems. Animals may choke on or become entangled in such bags, and if plastic reaches the ocean, it can linger there for thousands of years. While the bags may eventually break down, they can poison a wide assortment of sea creatures along the way. Paper bags will biodegrade much more quickly, but they still require the use of timber, a resource which some people would prefer to see left in forests.

Canvas grocery bags are also much sturdier than regular grocery bags, for consumers who are not persuaded by the environmental arguments. As anyone who has had a bag break open in the parking lot knows, it can be very frustrating to lose a batch of groceries to a poorly-constructed grocery bag. Canvas bags can hold much more weight than regular grocery bags, and they can easily be washed in the event of leaks or spills.

How? - Visit your local Target, Whole Foods, Trader Joe's or other drug store and pick up several canvas bags. Keep them in your car and near the door in your home for easy use.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 22 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

VISIT A SICK OR ELDERLY PERSON



Laughter is good medicine, and knowing that someone cares is an excellent encouragement to a person who isn't well.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Visit or call a sick or elderly person and encourage him/her. Share a joke or a funny story and let them know you care.

Why? - Studies have shown that laughter boosts the immune system. Emotional wellbeing is tied to physical wellbeing. As you share your light and love with another, you also set universal law in motion. Remember that you can't give without also receiving. Plant the seed of love in the life of a person who needs it most.

How? - Check the phone book for hospitals and elderly homes in your area or ask a church member or friend for a referral. Remember that you may have friends or family members battling diseases and chronic conditions who need your encouragement too!
Ready, set, GROW!

Day 21 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DRIVE THE SPEED LIMIT!



You'll still get there! Slow down today and honor the rules of the road.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Drive the speed limit.

Why? - Speed kills and doesn't put you at your destination much sooner than driving the speed limit. It's important to practice safe lifestyle habits including safe driving.

How? - Be aware of the speed limit as you drive. Remain conscious of your speed by periodically checking your speedometer.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 20 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

NO JUNK FOOD!



Your body is a temple and littering is strictly prohibited!

Here's the scoop:
What? - No junk food - no fast food, no pastries, no cookies, no soda, no potato chips, no candy, etc.

Why? - Junk food wreaks havoc on your body! Your body needs whole, nutrient rich foods in order to thrive! Besides being high in salt & sugar (two things that, in excess, destroy good health), junk food is void of nutrients and often causes a wide range of physical ailments and disease. Many conditions can be healed and corrected through proper nutrition and that begins with eliminating junk food.

How? - Make healthy choices! Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables. Enjoy nuts as a snack and be sure to start the day with a hearty breakfast to avoid binge eating midday. Drink plenty of water and enjoy a nice long walk.

Ready, set, GROW!

Inspired Living Chalenge Week 1 Update!

Hey guys!

I shot a quick video to recap on the challenge and I'll shoot another in the next few days to recap on the other days of the challenge. Be inspired!

Part 1

Part 2

Day 19 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DONATE MONEY TO CHARITY



The 2 biggest indicators of what we value are how we spend our money and how we spend our time. Today, give a portion of your earnings to a worthy cause of your choice.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Give money to charity...don't feel stressed or pressured to give what you don't have. Whether it's $1 or $1000, every donation counts.

Why? - There are people without homes, health, food, and other important basics who need you! Even if you can't devote time every week to volunteering, you can make donations that support organizations doing the work of helping people who need it.

How? - Mail a check or pay online. As you give, remember that giving is a very powerful act so savor the moment. In your mind's eye, see your donation making an important difference.

Don't have a cause in mind? Check out or for ideas.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 18 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

MAKE A LIST OF 10 THINGS YOU'RE GRATEFUL FOR!



Gratitude is a catalyst for the flow of abundance into your life! The more you demonstrate gratitude, the more you have to be grateful for.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Sit down and write out a list of 10 things you're grateful for. Think about the many blessings in your life, big and small, and spend time meditating on how fortunate you are to have those things. Then say a prayer of thanks for your blessings.

Why? - No matter what situation you're in, it could always be worse! Plus, most of us are extremely blessed but don't realize it because we spend so much time complaining and focusing on getting what we don't have. Being grateful opens the door for wonderful things to flow to us.

How? - Make your list today and consider gratitude journaling every day by jotting down 3-5 things you're grateful for. Spending time doing this exercise in the morning puts you in a state of mind to thrive and enjoy the richness of your life.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 17 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

SMILE EVERY CHANCE YOU GET



Smiling is one of the easiest ways to brighten your day and someone else's!

Here's the scoop:
What? - SMILE every chance you get...whether you're making eye contact with a stranger or just working alone, smile!

Why? - Not only does smiling look great on you, it has been proven to boost your mood and brain function.

Check out these 10 reasons to smile from Dr. Mark Stibich...

1. Smiling Makes Us Attractive
We are drawn to people who smile. There is an attraction factor. We want to know a smiling person and figure out what is so good. Frowns, scowls and grimaces all push people away -- but a smile draws them in.

2. Smiling Changes Our Mood
Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There's a good chance you mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood.

3. Smiling Is Contagious
When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things happier. A smiling person brings happiness with them. Smile lots and you will draw people to you.

4. Smiling Relieves Stress
Stress can really show up in our faces. Smiling helps to prevent us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile. The stress should be reduced and you'll be better able to take action.

5. Smiling Boosts Your Immune System
Smiling helps the immune system to work better. When you smile, immune function improves possibly because you are more relaxed. Prevent the flu and colds by smiling.

6. Smiling Lowers Your Blood Pressure
When you smile, there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. Give it a try if you have a blood pressure monitor at home. Sit for a few minutes, take a reading. Then smile for a minute and take another reading while still smiling. Do you notice a difference?

7. Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain Killers and Serotonin
Studies have shown that smiling releases endorphins, natural pain killers, and serotonin. Together these three make us feel good. Smiling is a natural drug.

8. Smiling Lifts the Face and Makes You Look Younger
The muscles we use to smile lift the face, making a person appear younger. Don't go for a face lift, just try smiling your way through the day -- you'll look younger and feel better.

9. Smiling Makes You Seem Successful
Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and more likely to be approached. Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.

10. Smiling Helps You Stay Positive
Try this test: Smile. Now try to think of something negative without losing the smile. It's hard. When we smile our body is sending the rest of us a message that "Life is Good!" Stay away from depression, stress and worry by smiling.

How? - Put vaseline on your teeth if you need help holding it!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 16 of the 30 Day of Inspired Living Challenge

CHECK YOUR CREDIT REPORT



Your credit report and score are an important part of your overall financial well being. You're entitled to a free report every year so take advantage of that and be sure to check your score regularly.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Check your credit score with all 3 bureaus, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. If you're making an important purchase or investment soon, check your score as well.

Why? - Errors in your credit report can cost you! You may have trouble getting a loan for an important purchase or you may be paying higher than necessary interest rates based on a miscalculated score. You can avoid the scramble of checking your score if you stay on top of it every year.

How? - Visit and get copies of all 3 reports. Dispute any inaccuracies with old or current accounts, addresses, places of employment, etc.

Ready, set, GROW!

Random Thoughts on a Friday...

It's Friday!! Not that I'm really celebrating since my days have a tendency to run together. Ever since I left corporate America, the days have an interesting rhythm. Anyhoo, it's a wonderful thing because it means that I don't dread Monday and not any more excited about Friday than I am every other day of the week. It's nice to be excited about every day.

I'm going to see Good Hair with the coproducer of a new film I'm working on. I'm apprehensive about this film (Good Hair) because I have a feeling that it didn't do the topic justice. Maybe I'm biased as a newly natural woman who is concerned with programming and conditioning of black girls and their hair. I'm keeping an open mind...we'll see.

I haven't unpacked from my 3 week run...I don't know what it is about unpacking that I absolutely detest. Fortunately, I've been traveling so much this year that I've been able to cheat and leave things packed until the next trip. LOL I leave for Dallas Friday and I have barely unpacked the essentials. Meh.

I bought a Blackberry Tour the other week, but I miss my Curve. The Tour is nice...it's just...I don't know. I'm still not completely used to it, and it has a couple of annoying settings that I'm working around. Whatever.

It's so SUNNY in LA today!!! I've been facing wind, clouds, overcast skies, and grey weather on the east coast. Even though I heart NYC, I looooove sunshine and warm temps. I'm happy to be in LA...today...and this only furthers my suspicion that I should be bicoastal. I've got good cause to be on both coasts - I need the sunshine, Hollywood, Whole Foods, and yoga...but I also need $5 pashminas on the street, fashion, amazing food, business, and a great nightlife. Yes, the time is nearing for me to make the leap.

Journaling is an extremely powerful thing...I think a lot of people underestimate the power of putting the pen to the pad. I'm guessing that I'm partial to it because I'm a writer, but beyond that, writing and journaling have gotten me through some of the most difficult times in my life. I'm grateful for what writing has been to me and what has allowed me to do with myself and for myself.

I have an audition today. Totally random. It's interesting because last year I moved behind the camera and fell in love with it. Part of it is my undying need to create and the other part is my control freak coming out. Anyway, I like being on the production side of things, but I kept my on camera representation. After all, the residuals from camera work are nice, and I like mailbox money! So, it's off to a Verizon audition we go.

I'm working on a new book for girls, and I'm really stoked about what this will become. There's such an amazing opportunity with Inspired Girls and all of it subsidiaries so I'm looking forward to getting this into the hands of the girls in our community!

Alright enough blogging...time to run some errands before the movie!

Later.

Day 15 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

SCHEDULE YOUR ANNUAL CHECKUPS!



Your health is your first wealth! Make appointments today to see specialists for your annual checkups. Even if you feel great, you'll want to be sure that your temple is in tip top shape by using preventive medicine!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Schedule appointments with doctors and specialists to be sure your body is in great health.

Why? - Your health is your first wealth! The best way to ensure great health is to stay ahead of any possible conditions by getting regular checkups. Preventive medicine is the best way to preserve your health.

How? - See your doctor for a regular physical along with your dentist, optometrist, dermatologist, ob/gyn (for ladies) and any other specialists such as podiatrist, gastroenterologist, etc.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 14 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

VOLUNTEER AT A SHELTER

Volunteer your time to help someone less fortunate!

Here's the scoop:
What? - You can't give without receiving, and you will always be blessed when you make it your business to give to others.

Why? - There are people without homes, food, and other important basics who need you! Devote time to assisting those who don't have these basics as you never know if you may one day need a helping hand. Inspired Living is about being a blessing to others in word, deed, and example.

How? - Visit your local shelter to find out how you can help or visit or to find out how you can help in your community.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 13 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

CLEAR THE CLUTTER!

A cluttered living space or work space can hinder productivity and peace of mind. Spend time today clearing the clutter and preparing to receive more of what you want!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Paper, clothes you aren't wearing, boxes, shoes, supplies - whatever it is, get it organized. Resolve to go through the piles you've been putting off and clear the clutter!

Why? - Clearing the clutter in your spaces will open you up energetically to fresh, new things and help you think more clearly about what you have and what you need.

How? - Give it away, find a home for it, throw it away, or store it away. Here are a few tips from Heloise for clearing your clutter:
If you have five minutes...

* Chuck crummy sponges and outdated cleaning products lingering in your kitchen; clear old leftovers out of the fridge and pitch any expired foods found in the pantry.
* Do a TV-room makeover. I call this method "TVC": During TV commercials, quickly tidy up the room you're in. Gather all the magazines, newspapers, and bits of trash and put them in the garbage. Straighten pillows and refold throws. Organize your worktable. On the next program break, you can even give the den a quick vacuum.
* Throw away old cosmetics and expired medicines in the vanity drawer or the cabinet over the sink. Sort bath towels and washcloths for laundering or the rag bag.
* Weed out toys and games that haven't been used recently. If they are in good condition, you can donate them to a shelter, a hospital or a school.
* Gather misplaced belongings in a holding basket; later, ask family members to claim their possessions and put them away.

If you have one hour...

When serious decluttering is in store, try the ABC method. Select a cabinet or closet that's been bugging you. Take everything out and arrange items into three piles:

A: always used
B: used during the holidays and special occasions, or seasonally
C: not seen or used in a year or so

Then do a final sort:
Step 1: Toss or give away C items unless they are valuable or have sentimental worth.
Step 2: Return B items to the back of the storage area.
Step 3: Place the A team in the front of the space so those items will be handy for immediate use.

Want more? Check out this detailed list of tips for how to get organized and clear the clutter for good!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 12 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

PREPARE FOR AN EMERGENCY!

Are you ready for a natural disaster? If a tornado, earthquake, or storm hit your area, would you have the resources to sustain yourself and your family while waiting for help?

We don't like to spend time thinking about the things that could go wrong in our lives, but preparation is a mark of wisdom.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Gather the necessary items to safeguard against an emergency. Consider adding the items below to your emergency preparedness kit.

WATER

* Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles. A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more.
* Store one gallon of water per person per day. Don't forget your pets.
* Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person (two quarts for drinking, two quarts for each person in your household for food preparation/sanitation).
* Change this water every six months. Household liquid bleach to kill microorganisms:

o Use only regular household liquid bleach that contains 5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite. Do not use scented bleaches, colorsafe bleaches or bleaches with added cleaners.
o Add 16 drops of bleach per gallon of water, stir and let stand for 30 minutes. If the water does not have a slight bleach odor, repeat the dosage and let stand another 15 minutes.
o The only agent used to treat water should be household liquid bleach. Other chemicals, such as iodine or water treatment products sold in camping or surplus stores that do not contain 5.25 percent sodium hypochlorite as the only active ingredient, are not recommended and should not be used.


FOOD

* Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables.
* Canned juices, milk, soup
* Sugar, salt, pepper
* High energy foods such as peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, trail mix; foods that will not increase thirst.
* Vitamins
* Foods for infants, elderly, persons with special dietary needs
* Comfort/stress foods: cookies, hard candy, sweetened cereals, lollipops, instant coffee, tea bags.
* Pet food, at least one ounce per animal pound per day.
* Avoid foods like rice, pasta and dry beans that require a great deal of water to prepare. Remember to restock your food once a year.
BACK TO THE TOP


FIRST AID KIT

* Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes
* Assorted sizes of safety pins
* Cleansing agent/soap
* Latex gloves (2 pairs)
* Sunscreen
* 2-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6)
* 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6)
* Triangular bandages (3)
* Non-prescription drugs such as Pain relievers, Anti-diarrhea medicines, Antacid, Syrup of Ipecac (used to induce vomiting with the advice of a Poison Control Center), Laxatives, Activated charcoal (used with advice from the Poison Control Center)
* Various roller bandages
* Scissors
* Tweezers
* Needle
* Moistened towelettes
* Antiseptic
* Thermometer
* Tongue blades (2)
* Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
BACK TO THE TOP


TOOLS AND SUPPLIES

* Paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils
* Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
* Flashlight and extra batteries
* Cash or traveler's checks, in case banks are closed in the days following an earthquake
* Non-electric can opener or a utility knife
* Small fire extinguisher
* Pliers
* Tape
* Matches in a waterproof container
* Aluminum foil
* Plastic storage containers
* Signal flare
* Paper, pencil
* Needles, thread
* Medicine dropper
* Wrench, to turn off gas and water
BACK TO THE TOP


SANITATION

* Toilet paper
* Soap, liquid detergent
* Feminine supplies
* Plastic garbage bags and ties
* Plastic bucket with tight lid
* Disinfectant
* Household chlorine bleach
* Poop bags and scooper for pet waste
BACK TO THE TOP


CLOTHING AND BEDDING

* Sturdy shoes or work boots (keep near your bed)
* Rain gear
* Blankets or sleeping bags
* Warm clothing
* Sunglasses (keep your spare eyeglasses in the emergency kit, too.)
BACK TO THE TOP


DOCUMENTS

* Will, insurance policies, contracts deeds, stocks and bonds
* Passports, social security cards, immunization records
* Bank account numbers
* Credit card account numbers and companies
* Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers
* Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)
BACK TO THE TOP

**Remember to include special needs family members such as a baby or an older person might have. It is also good to store in a water proof plastic bag important family documents (passports, wills, medical records etc.) along with your earthquake survival kit.

Why? - You never know what may happen when Mother Nature is having her way. We hope for the best, but it's wise to be prepared to sustain ourselves in an emergency.

How? - Set aside time today to do this. You don't want to be regretting not taking this important step should something happen. Take time to gather the essentials and enjoy the peace of mind of being prepared.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 11of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

READ 20 PAGES OF A NONFICTION BOOK!

Readers are leaders! The more knowledge you have, the more choices you can make in your life and the more informed those choices are!

Here's the scoop:
What? - If you're currently reading a book on personal development, continue and read 20 pages today. If you aren't, choose a great book related to a topic that you want to expand in for yourself and read 20 pages.

Why? - Studies show that people who are actively engaged in personal development earn more money and are more satisfied with their lives personally and professionally. Investing in your lifelong education by reading increases your ability to succeed in each area of your life.

How? - Set aside quiet time and read. Spend a few minutes when you're done reflecting on what you've read and how you can apply it to your life. My book, Divine Inspirations, is a great primer for applying spiritual principles to the practical aspects of your life.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 10 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 10



REVIEW YOUR 6 MONTH, 1 YEAR, and 5 YEAR GOALS AND MAKE A PLAN OF ACTION!

Review your goals (or set goals) and get inspired to get going! Create a plan and take action! The best plans in the world won't work if you don't!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Create or review your 6 month, 1 year, and 5 year goals. Then create a plan to achieve each of the goals and determine what needs to be done each day to move you closer to those goals. Then take action! Start small and start now!

Why? - Goal setting is a powerful process for thinking about your ideal future, and for motivating yourself to turn this vision of the future into reality.Goal setting techniques are used by top-level athletes, successful business-people and achievers in all fields. They give you long-term vision and short-term motivation. They focus your acquisition of knowledge and help you to organize your time and your resources so that you can make the very most of your life.

By setting sharp, clearly defined goals, you can measure and take pride in the achievement of those goals. You can see forward progress in what might previously have seemed a long pointless grind. By setting goals, you will also raise your self-confidence, as you recognize your ability and competence in achieving the goals that you have set.

The process of setting goals helps you choose where you want to go in life. By knowing precisely what you want to achieve, you know where you have to concentrate your efforts. You'll also quickly spot the distractions that would otherwise lure you from your course.

Harvard Business School researchers have taken a vital interest in what makes the difference in success or failure for people of similar backgrounds and educational standards. Their studies find that 3% of people are successful, 30% are moderately successful and 67% just exist. The significant difference for the 3% who are successful is that they have written down, specific goals. The 30% who are moderately successful have a general idea of where they are going but don't have any goals formalized. The rest are happy to watch the world go by.

What is interesting is that people in the 30% category only need to put in a small effort to jump into the next group. The secret behind the effort is 'the development of habits and strategies which support the achievement of clear goals'.

How? - Consider your vision for your life. What does your ideal life look? Consider the 6 key areas of Inspired Living - spirituality, relationships, career & education, health & fitness, personal development, and wealth. From there, create 5 year, 1 year, and 6 month projections for these goals. Be sure your goals are specific, measurable, attainable, and have a time table attached.

Here are some additional tips for goal setting:
*State each goal as a positive statement: Express your goals positively – 'Execute this technique well' is a much better goal than 'Don't make this stupid mistake.'

*Be precise: Set a precise goal, putting in dates, times and amounts so that you can measure achievement. If you do this, you will know exactly when you have achieved the goal, and can take complete satisfaction from having achieved it.

*Set priorities: When you have several goals, give each a priority. This helps you to avoid feeling overwhelmed by too many goals, and helps to direct your attention to the most important ones.

*Write goals down: This crystallizes them and gives them more force.

*Keep operational goals small: Keep the low-level goals you are working towards small and achievable. If a goal is too large, then it can seem that you are not making progress towards it. Keeping goals small and incremental gives more opportunities for reward. Derive today's goals from larger ones.

*Set performance goals, not outcome goals: You should take care to set goals over which you have as much control as possible. There is nothing more dispiriting than failing to achieve a personal goal for reasons beyond your control. In business, these could be bad business environments or unexpected effects of government policy. In sport, for example, these reasons could include poor judging, bad weather, injury, or just plain bad luck. If you base your goals on personal performance, then you can keep control over the achievement of your goals and draw satisfaction from them.

Need additional help with setting goals? Check out the Goal Setting & Goal Getting Digital Download.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 9 of the Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 9



NO SUGAR!

Sugar is an addictive substance and an enemy of good health!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Don't consume any refined sugar - pastries, soda, candy, chocolate, etc.

Why? - Sugar has been linked to a very long list of diseases. Check out this list to learn why you should avoid sugar at all costs: 76 ways sugar ruins your health

How? - Eating 4-6 small meals during the day and drinking water help curb sugar cravings. Before reaching for sugar, try eating protein or having a small meal. If you crave something sweet, try fruit! It's called nature's candy for good reason. Pause periodically to ponder the good choice you're making for your health!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 8 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 8



DRINK 2L OF WATER

Your body is 75% water! You can't afford not to drink this life elixir!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Drink 2 liters of water today!

Why? - Water is a wellness beverage! Water has been proven to prevent a wide range of conditions and diseases. Water improves energy levels, mental clarity, skin quality, kidney function, and much more. Dehydration has even been linked to depression! You can't afford to skimp on your water intake. Your body needs to have toxins flushed out regularly and water does just that. Here are 16 more great reasons to drink water:

1. Weight loss. Water is one of the best tools for weight loss, first of all because it often replaces high-calorie drinks like soda and juice and alcohol with a drink that doesn't have any calories. But it's also a great appetite suppressant, and often when we think we're hungry, we're actually just thirsty. Water has no fat, no calories, no carbs, no sugar. Drink plenty to help your weight-loss regimen.

2. Heart healthy. Drinking a good amount of water could lower your risks of a heart attack. A six-year study published in the May 1, 2002 American Journal of Epidemiology found that those who drink more than 5 glasses of water a day were 41% less likely to die from a heart attack during the study period than those who drank less than two glasses.

3. Energy. Being dehydrated can sap your energy and make you feel tired -- even mild dehydration of as little as 1 or 2 percent of your body weight. If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated -- and this can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, dizziness and other symptoms.

4. Headache cure. Another symptom of dehydration is headaches. In fact, often when we have headaches it's simply a matter of not drinking enough water. There are lots of other causes of headaches of course, but dehydration is a common one.

5. Healthy skin. Drinking water can clear up your skin and people often report a healthy glow after drinking water. It won't happen overnight, of course, but just a week of drinking a healthy amount of water can have good effects on your skin.

6. Digestive problems. Our digestive systems need a good amount of water to digest food properly. Often water can help cure stomach acid problems, and water along with fiber can cure constipation (often a result of dehydration).

7. Cleansing. Water is used by the body to help flush out toxins and waste products from the body.

8. Cancer risk. Related to the digestive system item above, drinking a healthy amount of water has also been found to reduce the risk of colon cancer by 45%. Drinking lots of water can also reduce the risk of bladder cancer by 50% and potentially reduce the risk of breast cancer.

9. Better exercise. Being dehydrated can severely hamper your athletic activities, slowing you down and making it harder to lift weights. Exercise requires additional water, so be sure to hydrate before, during and after exercise.

10. 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. (Likely applies to half the world population.)

11. In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is mistaken for hunger.

12. Even MILD dehydration will slow down one's metabolism as 3%.

13. One glass of water will shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a University of Washington study.

14. Lack of water, the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.

15. Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain or up to 80% of sufferers.

16. A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a ! printed page.
8. Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%., and one is 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer.

How? - Keep your water with you! It's easier to sip throughout the day when you keep your bottle on your desk or in your handbag. Drinking from a bottle will make measuring easier to be sure you get in all of the watery goodness!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 7 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 7



PRAY FOR SOMEONE YOU DON'T LIKE!

The Challenge may have been relatively easy up until now. Here's where you get to stretch and step outside of your comfort zone. The people you can't stand are the people who need your prayers the most!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Pray for someone you don't like - whether a family member, boss, co-worker, church member, or "friend" - pray an earnest prayer for them to grow as a person and be blessed.

Why? - Prayer is powerful! Not only does prayer bless the person spoken of, it also blesses the prayer! Your ability to pray for those you don't like is an opportunity for you to express authentic levels of love to those around you. After all, God's most important command to us was to love one another. We demonstrate our love for God by loving each other. Everyone has needs, even the person you can't stand, and oftentimes, the deepest needs and insecurities reveal themselves as anger, resentment, and obnoxious behavior. Remember that hurt people hurt people! Pray for them and love them in spite of whatever annoyances and issues you have with them.

How? - Set aside a special time today to pray for the person. Ask God to help them grow and to bless them with their needs and desires. Tell God WHY you don't like them and ask Him to give you patience and the ability to extend the same grace and mercy that He extends to you every day.

Ready, Set, GROW!

No Fear

So I was on a plane Tuesday from Memphis to Philadelphia when the stewardess came over the speakers saying that we would have to land in Knoxville because the computer on the plane was malfunctioning. My limited knowledge of planes kept me from being able to really assess the threat level of a computer malfunction, but I was concerned. Several minutes later, she said we had too much weight to land in Knoxville and would need to burn fuel in the air for about 20 minutes before we could land. So, we flew in what I assume were circles and then landed. Technicians came to the plane and began checking things.

I was relieved when we got on the ground and hoped that they would de-plane us and put us on another plane. The technicians "fixed" our plane so we fired it up and took off again for Philadelphia.

I was nervous when we took off...what if they hadn't fixed it? What if it malfunctioned again? What if something else went terribly wrong? What if I died?

What if I died? No, really...what if? What would people say? Who did I speak to last and what was it about? How would people remember me? What would be unfinished? I gave thought to these questions, and I realized that I've gotten much better about tying up my loose ends...saying I love you often, hugging often, laughing often, sharing my wisdom and inspiration often. As I thought about the possibility, I realized that I would be ok with that. Did I want to die? Of course not. But did I regret having not said or done things? NO. And that was such a great feeling...to know that if I left the earth now, I'd have no regrets because I live an amazing life filled with purpose, joy, and fun and that the people I love and cherish would know exactly what they meant to me because I told them so and did things to show it.



After hearing about so many plane crashes over the past couple of years, it's easy to let your mind wander. I decided not to let it stress me. I prayed silently and decided to sleep. I slept soundly for a while and as I woke up, the stewardess was telling us we'd be landing soon.

We landed without incident, and I breathed a sigh of relief. We made it safely, and I was happy...happy because we were on the ground safe and sound but even more happy because my life is being lived out loud...with full expression of my hopes, dreams, and truths.

I encourage you to explore the meaning of your life and whether you would be ok with how you left things if you died today. James Dean told us to dream as if we'd live forever and live as if we'd die today. Live your life with all the purpose, love, and joy you can muster! You never know when your time or that of someone you love will come. We don't have to fear death if we know where our souls will go and we live lives that reflect the legacy that we want for ourselves.

Live your bliss!

Day 6 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 6



EAT 7 SERVINGS OF FRUITS AND/OR VEGETABLES TODAY!

Your body will thank you for putting nourishing foods into it!

Here's the scoop:

What? - Eat 7 servings of fruits and/or veggies today!

Why? - You are what you eat! As a divine individual, your body is a temple and littering is strictly prohibited! The vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants in fresh fruits and vegetables are unmatched. Eating whole nutrient rich foods reduces the risk for heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, certain types of cancer and so much more. Fruits and vegetables are functional too! They can improve your mood, boost your energy, and clear up infections. Your diet should be rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables. Your mind and body will thank you!

How? - Use these tips if you aren't used to consuming this many servings or want to make today's challenge easier for yourself.

1. Keep fruit out where you can see it. That way you'll be more likely to eat it. Keep it out on the counter or in the front of the fridge.

2. Get some every meal, every day. Try filling half your plate with vegetables at each meal. Serving up salads, stir fry, or other vegetable-rich fare makes it easier to reach this goal. Bonus points if you can get some fruits and vegetables at snack time, too.

3. Explore the produce aisle and choose something new. Variety is the key to a healthy diet. Get out of a rut and try some new fruits and vegetables.

4. Bag the potatoes. Choose other vegetables that are packed with more nutrients and more slowly digested carbs. Read the "Carbohydrates" section of The Nutrition Source to learn how to add good carbs to your diet.

5. Make it a meal. Try some new recipes where vegetables take center stage, such as asparagus with warm tarragon-pecan vinaigrette, or spicy broccolini with red pepper.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 5 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 5



WRITE A THANK YOU NOTE!

The more we demonstrate gratitude, the more we have to be grateful for!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Send a thank you note - physical or electronic - to someone who has done something for you recently.

Why? - Besides being common courtesy, taking the time to say thank you can go a long way towards developing healthy relationships. Even if we don't do things for others just to get a "thank you", it's always nice to hear that the recipient of our kindness appreciates it enough to say thank you. Telling another person how you feel about their act may inspire them to do more kind acts for you and others. You too will be inspired to pay the kindness forward and lend a helping hand. The more we demonstrate gratitude, the more we are given to be grateful for.


How? - Think of something someone has said or done for you. It can be big or small as long as you express gratitude for what was done! If you struggle to think of something recent, reflect on something from the past that you may have forgotten to say thank you for and express it!

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 4 of the Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 4


COMMIT A RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS!

Giving is the ultimate act of divine living! Today, give something away!

Here's the scoop:
What? - Give something away. Maybe you have an item lying around that someone else needs or maybe you've been meaning to take a bag of clothes to the Goodwill. Perhaps your coworker needs help with her workload. Whatever it is, find something valuable to give away to someone else - time, a listening ear, money, resources, etc.

Why? - It's impossible to give without receiving! Giving is a divine act, and your life is enriched when you give. Blessing others with a portion of what you've been given is a tangible expression of gratitude for the abundance in your life. It's also a humanitarian act as you reach out to meet the need of another person.

How? - Look for people in need! This challenge requires that you develop a consciousness of service. You'll have to be looking for opportunities throughout the day to help someone and give something away. Don't take no for an answer! Give wholeheartedly and observe the amazing effects of giving on yourself and others.

Ready, set, GROW!

Day 3 of the 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge

DAY 3



HAND WRITE A LETTER TO A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER!

When is the last time you actually sat down to write a letter and mailed it? With e-mail, texting, instant messaging, Facebook and a host of other communication tools, we can send messages in a flash. But there's value in taking the time to think carefully about what we want to say and then spending the time and energy writing a letter.

Here's the scoop:
What? - Write a letter, by hand, to a family member or friend.

Why? - Connection and interaction are basic human necessities. Electronic communication is commonplace, but a handwritten letter requires a different level of consideration. Imagine the other person's surprise when they take your letter out of the mailbox! We rarely received handwritten communications, but reconnecting with a loved one pen pal style can inspire you both to enjoy more fun and interaction in your relationship.


How? - Grab pen and paper and share your thoughts! Tell the other person how you feel about them and share what's been going on in your world. Say all the things you've been meaning to say but haven't gotten around to!

Ready, set, GROW!

DAY 2 OF 30, THE INSPIRED LIVING CHALLENGE

DAY 2



NO TELEVISION!

Television can be a total time sap and block to your productivity and creativity!

For today, turn off the tube!

Here's the scoop:
What? - No TV today!
Why? - The average American watches 3 hours and 46 minutes of TV each day (that's more than 52 days of nonstop TV-watching per year).
By the age of 65 the average American will have spent nearly nine years glued to the tube! Think about how many important things you can accomplish if you just reduce your TV time in half!
People who watch the news every day report higher depression rates than those who don't. This challenge is designed to inspire you to think critically about how you spend your discretionary time. If you spend every night in front of the TV, you're missing out on a lot! Think about the alternatives - reading, spending time with family, journaling, meditating, exercising, starting a new project...there are countless things to do with your time that will yield meaningful results!
How? - If you find yourself in the break room at work and the TV is on, grab a book or head some place quiet. Instead of watching TV as you get dressed or eat dinner, concentrate on being present in your life and your activities. Choose a theme for the day (i.e. love, joy, peace, happiness, health, etc) and reflect or write about it whenever you feel tempted to turn on the tube.

Ready, set, GROW!

OCTOBER 2 - DAY 1 OF 30, INSPIRED LIVING CHALLENGE

It's here!!! It's actually here!

The 30 Day Inspired Living Challenge begins today, and I'm so excited that you're joining me. Feel free to share your thoughts, ideas, and progress in the comments section at any time.

Without further ado, let's begin!

DAY 1



NO COMPLAINING!

Sounds simple, huh? You may not realize it but most of us complain internally and externally way more than we should. Complaining is a waste of energy!

Here's the scoop:
What? - No complaining - out loud, to yourself, in your head. Nada.
Why? - Forming the habit of not complaining forces you to stop looking at what's wrong in your life and examine what's right...and how you can create solutions for your challenges. You'll find that your mood will gradually improve as you focus on what you want instead of complaining about what's not right in your life.
How? - When you find yourself complaining, STOP! Replace the complaint with gratitude for some blessing you have! Immediately look for a solution to the complaint and ditch any whining about your circumstances.

Ready, set, GROW!

A setback is a setup for a comeback!

“A setback is a setup for a comeback!”
-Willie Jolley

Today, I want to share some notes with you about setbacks. We often think of setbacks as being obstacles on our paths to success, but I submit that setbacks are blessings & opportunities in disguise. When people tell me of hardships they’re facing or problems they’re having, I’m always excited for them. I say “Congratulations” and they look at me like I’m off my rocker. But here’s the secret: a setback is always a setup for a comeback for a child of God.

God is in the business of prospering His children. We see countless promises in the Bible – a comforting word that God will provide, a thought about the pointless nature of worrying, the tenet that everything works to the good of those who love God. There should be no doubt in our minds that God is always prospering us…so why do we allow fear, anxiety, and depression to steal our joy?

Part of the problem is that we don’t truly understand the blessing in the storm. Take a moment to think back on the darkest nights and most difficult seasons in your life. As we go through a storm, we sometimes struggle to find meaning in the hardship. However, the purpose and value of the struggle is usually revealed long after the difficult time has passed. Over time, God’s unfailing love for us should build our faith muscle – it should be a reminder that His timing and His ways are perfect and that if we just keep going and trust Him, we’ll be blessed beyond our wildest dreams.

Jimmy Dean says, “I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” The other part of the problem is that we insist on having control. We want to give God part of the problem and keep the rest to ourselves to worry and brood over. But God is infinite! How silly of us to continually weigh our minds down with the cares of the world when God has promised us that He would never leave or forsake us. When we find ourselves drifting off course, we can “adjust our sails” so that we can reach our destinations. God gives wisdom generously to those who ask so in seeking Him and His will for our lives, we can use the bricks of hardship to build the foundation of our victory.

There’s silver lining to every cloud of doubt – it’s up to us to find it! If you’re facing tough times, fret not! In fact, celebrate and praise God because something amazing is on the way. Your breakthrough starts with you!

© 2009, Lisa Nicole Bell