Benjamin Franklin has a quote that says, "Energy and persistence conquer all things." It's something that we don't always think about as truth. But, it is! Whether or not we accomplish something often depends on whether or not we have the energy. Do we have the energy it takes to tackle the stack of dirty dishes? What about roaming the zoo with three little ones in tow? Do we feel energetic enough to try that new healthy recipe or squeeze in an early morning workout? Energy is a key ingredient to our success. So, how do we get more of it??!! (Hint - caffeine and sugar aren't long term solutions.) :)
According to the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching, there are six basic areas that influence how much energy we have at any given moment. These six key components that increase (or deplete) our energy are: mental, emotional, physical, social, environmental, and spiritual areas. In today's newsletter, I would like to focus on one of those areas - environmental.
The environmental area describes the setting or conditions where a particular activity is taking place. Many times we know that we are influenced by our environment. We get sleepy and drained being in a room with dim lighting. We lose our motivation to cook when our kitchen is a disaster. We don't want to work on the computer when it is running slowly. We know these things. But, we don't always think about our environment as being a key ingredient to our success on goals. But, it can be since our environment can either drain or inject energy.
One of my clients wanted to work on keeping her home more organized. The first area she wanted to tackle was the kitchen. The "paper piles" added up. And like many homes, the kitchen counter became a "dumping station" or "holding spot" for items as the family would pass through on their way to another part of the house. This mom knew from our coaching that environmental factors were a big influence on her energy! And so, she made her kitchen counter pretty! She artistically decorated her kitchen space. And, she is energized by her new environment. This energy motivates her enough to keep the clutter away - her original goal. (See picture.)
I have heard athletic trainers telling clients to make sure that they have water on hand, comfortable clothing, and supportive footwear before exercising. Again, the thought is that we want all of the environmental factors in place to support the energy we need to accomplish our tasks.
What about you? Are you trying to complete your quiet time in a space that is cluttered and full of distractions? Are you wanting to have a meaningful conversation with others, but technology is present? If so, these could be an environmental drains to your energy. And, the more energy we have - the easier it is to achieve our goals!
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
What is the environment where I am working, or trying to accomplish my goal?
How does this environment/conditions influence my success?
If the influence is negative ask: What is one change I can make to plug the environmental energy drain?
If the influence is positive ask: How can I replicate this environmental energy boost in other ways?
Energy is such an important component in creating and living the intentional life that we desire. And as we know in Indiana - we can't control the snow or sunshine! But, we can make changes to create an environment that energizes us and helps us with our goals. So whether it's a new light bulb, new tennis shoes, new technology rule, or a new location - may you discover some ways to environmentally infuse energy. Your goals will thank you.
This is a new newsletter section where I share tips or strategies from One Intentional Mom to another. These are time savers, guilt relievers, helpful tools, and some good old fashioned mama sense. If you have a tip to share, please e-mail me at carla@carlamillercoaching.com. I would love to hear from you!! :)
We all know that crock pots can be time savers, right?!? And, the less time we spend worrying about dinner, the more time we have to be intentional in other areas. Here is my family's favorite Pork Roast/Loin crock pot recipe. It was given to me by anther triplet mom. And best of all, it's easy and delicious!!
Balsamic Glazed Pork
Ingredients:
1 (2 pound) boneless pork loin (or pork roast)
1 teaspoon ground sage
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 clove garlic, crushed
1/2 cup water
Glaze
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Combine sage, salt, pepper, and garlic. Rub over loin or roast. Place in slow cooker with water. Cook on low for 6 - 8 hours.
About 1 hour before roast is done, combine ingredients for glaze in small saucepan. Heat on medium-high and stir until mixture thickens. Brush roast with glaze two or three times during the last hour of cooking. Serve with remaining glaze on the side.
Need a Speaker for an Upcoming Event?
Are you seeking an encouraging and fun speaker for an upcoming Mom's Group, Mother's Day Program, Women's Retreat or church event? Carla speaks to large and small groups on topics such as:
How I Accidentally Became an Intentional Mom
How to Avoid Turning Into the Grinch at Christmas
Communication Strategies for Every Relationship
The Secret Power Source of a Super Mom
Celebrating the YOU Mom
Carla speaks honestly from the heart and shares stories from her own life experiences and unique motherhood journey as well as insights from her hundreds of hours working with moms. Words such as "Professional" "Encouraging" "Honest" and "Helpful" describe these talks.
Contact Carla by Phone/ E-mail to Discuss Availability, Additional Topics, Rates and More!
SPEAKING EVENTS March 1
Stones Crossing MOPS (evening group)
Greenwood, IN
March 4
Mom2Mom
Bloomington, IN
May 7
Mother Daughter Banquet
Clay City, IN
I help women confidently navigate life during the season of motherhood. Shift from "reacting" to purposefully leading your life - which eliminates overwhelm and guilt and brings joy, satisfaction and fulfillment.
Become One Intentional Mom
Focused on helping you be One Intentional Mom,
Carla
One of my clients wanted to work on keeping her home more organized. The first area she wanted to tackle was the kitchen. The "paper piles" added up. And like many homes, the kitchen counter became a "dumping station" or "holding spot" for items as the family would pass through on their way to another part of the house. This mom knew from our coaching that environmental factors were a big influence on her energy! And so, she made her kitchen counter pretty! She artistically decorated her kitchen space. And, she is energized by her new environment. This energy motivates her enough to keep the clutter away - her original goal. (See picture.) 
