GET REAL: R.E.A.L. Actionable Steps for Living with Intention and Purpose”

A REAL Reset for Restoring Your Soul

The song “It Is Well with My Soul” has always had a calming effect on me, even when my heart and soul are in turmoil, and even when my stomach is in knots. For me, May marks the start of a summer reset—a time for restoration—where August, not January, feels like the true beginning of a new year.

This past May, I packed up my classroom for the final time, closing the book on my teaching career. I began nearly 50 years ago, teaching kindergarten, and throughout my career, I’ve taught every grade from PreK to college. I even had the joy of teaching children of former students. The last two years were spent at a new Christian school in a neighboring town, which I absolutely loved. But now, I’ve decided to embrace retirement and focus on pursuing other dreams.

But life had another unexpected turn for me: my Facebook account was hacked, and I lost everything—my memories, posts, business account, and followers. I tried everything I could to recover it, but nothing worked. After hitting a wall, I made the decision to step away from the digital world for a while and approach it with a fresh perspective. I’m now more determined than ever to be intentional, both in my REAL life and online presence.

I’d love for you to join me on this journey to live a REAL life, even in a world that often feels make-believe.

Here’s how you can start:

REFLECT ELIMINATE ACT LIVE INTENTIONALLY

  1. Reflect on what genuinely brings you joy.
    Appreciate the people, moments, and experiences in your life that spark true happiness. Prioritize your well-being and make space for the things that light you up. At the same time, practice finding joy in the successes and happiness of others.

Intentionally schedule time for what fulfills you. Celebrate even the smallest victories—both your own and those of the people around you. Offer yourself kindness, and extend that same love and compassion to others. Cultivate gratitude for where you are and what you have.                                                                

  1. Eliminate the clutter — in your mind, your home, and your relationships.

Sometimes, we need to clear the clutter — not just in our homes, but in our hearts and minds.Let go of the distractions, the old wounds, the lingering resentment. Make space for what truly matters: a deeper connection with God, quality time with loved ones, and a peaceful heart. Healing begins when we release what no longer serves us. ✨

  1. Act decisively. Take practical steps to make changes that will bring peace and order into your life. Learn to face your problems, and look for solutions. Be willing to take the advice of others in resolving issues. Work on small goals every day. Create and use checklists to monitor your growth.
  2. Live intentionally. Be present in each moment, hold onto hope for the future, and be mindful of the relationships God places in both your real and online worlds. Start noticing the beauty of everyday, simple things.

It’s time for a REAL reset. Let’s make this journey together.