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Taking a Break from Blogging

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC


I have been blogging regularly since 2011. As of today, I have published 922 posts over the past 15 years, as well as a substantial number of podcast episodes to accompany those posts.

While I never run out of things to write about and I love sharing what I have learned (and am still learning) with you, the time has come for me to take a break from blogging and podcasting.

I recently suffered an injury that requires extensive rehab and recovery time, and I also have another book in the works that I want to prepare for publication.

During my blogging break, I encourage you to dive into my archived posts. I also have seven books available for purchase, either on Amazon or via my website:

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene Anderson Make Stress Work For You by Marlene Anderson | focuswithmarlene.com

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind – A tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find joy, comfort, and laughter.
Available on Amazon in paperback and ebook formats.

Make Stress Work for You: 12 Steps to Understanding Stress and Turning it Into a Positive Force – Special book bundle available exclusively on focuswithmarlene.com.

Learning to Live Again in a New World: A Journey from Loss to New Life – Takes you beyond those early days and months of intense grief to making a transitional journey from one reality to another.
Available on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, audiobook, and ebook formats.

Relaxation Audio: 15 Minutes a Day to De-Stress – The script, with original music by Emmy award-winning composer, Ron Jones, walks you through how to relax all the parts of your body. Downloadable audio available exclusively on focuswithmarlene.com.

It’s a God Thing: Stories to Help You Experience the Heart of God – I’m a contributor to this anthology of 50 real-life stories that demonstrate the real grace that can only come from a kind and loving Heavenly Father.
Available on Amazon in paperback.

Heaven Touching Earth: True Stories of Angels, Miracles, and Heavenly Encounters – I’m a contributor to this anthology where more than 40 ordinary people share stories of miracles, healing, divine provision and protection, and encounters with angels and demons.
Available on Amazon in paperback and ebook formats.

A Love So Great: A Grief So Deep – The story of a great love shared between two people, and the grief that follows death. It is a story of faith and hope, agony of doubt and unbelief through dark days, and the long journey of healing from loss.
Available on Amazon in paperback.

Thank you for being a loyal reader of FocusWithMarlene.com. I’d love to hear from you, and I’d especially appreciate hearing how my words have positively impacted your life.

Marlene Anderson

Love and Sacrifice

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

I am reposting “Tree of Hope,” a poem written by my friend, Darlene Dubay.

In her poem, Darlene reflects on the tree that became the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Starting from a tiny seed, Darlene conceptualizes what that tree was thinking as it grew, was chopped down, and became a cross.

Darlene is a talented and gifted writer and poet. Her book, Walking is a Prayer: Glimpses of a Spiritual Journey, was released in 2020.

You can find more details on her website, dmdubay.com.

Love and The Tree of Hope

Love. People sing songs about it, create movies with love as the theme, and try to find words to express it in books.

Love is a gift – we can’t earn it, we don’t deserve it, and yet we find it so hard to receive. What greater love can anyone have than to sacrifice their life for another, as Jesus did for us.

“For God so loved the world….”        John 3:16

Love and Sacrifice | focuswithmarlene.com

Tree of Hope

I remember being a seed, full of hope, dreaming.

 I would be the tallest tree, and proud.

Then, thrust into the ground, I shuddered.

Darkness overcame me and I broke.

No longer latent, I began to search for light.

Yet wanting to be anchored, I thrust my fingers deeper into ground.

They laughed at me as I broke free.

“A twig,” they said: Insignificant nothing.

Yet I dreamed of becoming—magnificent I’d stand, towering above—mighty.

When finally ready I would be mercifully cut to become

A pillar, strong and straight to hold the weight of majesty aloft.

Or maybe I would be fashioned as a cradle,

Holding precious life, or toy or tureen—useful—

bringing pleasure by being used.

I did not fear the saw; it was a long way off.

But when it finally came. I cried,

“No, let me grow a little more. I want to be the biggest and the best.

I want my glorious form to be admired.”

I lay there on the ground, helpless—

My fate in the hands of those who ripped me from my roots.

It did no good to protest. My voice could not be heard.

Lying prostrate, I imagined what I would become.

It was not good. Their evil tones were hinting shame and disgrace.

“No!” I cried. “I did not grow for this.”

My limbs were ripped and nailed into a form

So horrible—degrading—a mockery of what was meant to be.

Bitter nails drove into my flesh,

But worse was yet to come.

Dragged and carried in my ugly form, I tried my best to help the struggling one,

But felt my weight grow heavier with each step.

Then on the top of that ignominious hill,

They laid me prostrate to accept my fate.

I felt his flesh caress the roughness of my bark.

I groaned in shame that I would be the one

To lift His whipped and trampled body far aloft for all to see.

I felt the spikes drive precious flesh and blood into my wood.

Helpless, there I stood, as I was lifted with my treasure.

Oh, the shame! The agony! The jeering crowds saying,

“It’s the end. His suffering has no meaning. ”

All is lost. What victory lies in death?

What justice shines through bitter clouds of hate?

I felt his spirit leave and fear of being discarded racked my being.

The coldness of his absence permeated me

And I wished for burning fires of purification.

Better to be cleansed than to lie rotting in the dirt.

The emptiness of my ugly form was wretched. I watched them haul him off—just another lifeless piece of flesh.

And me? I only hoped that I could fade to nothing.

On the third day, though, he returned.

He held me close and promised—what?

I could not comprehend.

“I live,” he said. “I am alive forever.”

“How can it be?” I cried. “I felt your soul’s anguish

And despair. I know the emptiness of your departing.

I never want to be the one who displays

Your trampled, lifeless body up for all to see.”

He held me closer then and I knew it had to be this way.

My gift of self will be forever a symbol of great love.

My collaboration in his plan will always be

The means to life eternal.

I’m honored. I am cherished.

And every day and moment

Someone remembers by my sign—

True life awaits those who hold me closest to their heart.

Darlene
4-5-2010

I wish each of you a blessed Easter, knowing that it was the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, his death, and resurrection, that brings us this blessed holy day, as well as the love, hope, and grace we all desire.

Marlene Anderson

Achieve True Fitness through Movement, Food, and Faith

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Defining True Fitness

Our world is saturated with programs and articles focusing on physical health. Often, we start a new routine with high hopes—“I need to do this!”—only to let life’s distractions derail our progress.

To truly follow through, we must broaden our definition of fitness. Is it merely about the body, or does it include the mind?

We are a complex design of body, soul, and spirit. To live well, we must address all three.

The Power of a Renewed Mind

Cognitive or mental fitness is the ability to think, learn, and remember. It is what allows us to adapt to life’s changes and set new goals when the old ones fail. Maintaining mental sharpness requires more than just solitude; it thrives when we stay socially engaged and physically active.

Honoring the Temple Through Movement

Physical activity does more than just burn calories; it increases blood flow and reduces inflammation that can cloud our judgment. Experts recommend just 20 minutes a day to see results. Whether it is aerobic exercise or strength training, movement improves our heart health, mood, and memory.

Conversely, sedentary behavior can contribute to cognitive decline. When we move, have more energy and focus to fulfill our purpose.

Fueling Body and Soul

We often overlook the profound impact our diet has on our brain chemistry. What we eat daily affects not only our waistline but also how we process life’s challenges. Alongside nutrition, prioritized sleep and stress management are vital.

Understanding your unique stressors can be lifesaving. (For deeper insights, I recommend my book, Make Stress Work for You, available on the Products page of my website.)

When we manage our stress, we find the “peace that surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7), which protects both our hearts and our minds.

Challenging the Brain for Growth

Just as weights strengthen a muscle, new challenges strengthen the brain.

To increase your mind’s capacity, try stepping outside your routine. Learn a new language, pick up a musical instrument, join a choir, or tackle a complex puzzle.

By interspersing your daily habits with new hobbies, you keep your mind sharp, alert, and ready for whatever God has in store for you.

Fitness is not a destination; it is a stewardship of the life we’ve been given. When we combine physical movement with mental challenges and spiritual discipline, we create a lifestyle that is sustainable and vibrant.

Don’t just aim to look fit—aim to be whole.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

The Power of a New Perspective

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Navigating the Season of Uncertainty

As you move from one chapter of life to another, it is natural to question your reasoning.

You might wonder, “Is this a wise choice? What if I am making a mistake? Have I truly thought this through?”

These doubts are a normal part of the human experience, as are fear and anxiety.

However, how you harness these emotions makes all the difference in your outcome. Rather than letting worry paralyze you, it is time to develop a new perspective.

The Power of Your Internal Dialogue

We all carry an ongoing internal dialogue that reflects our current circumstances and past experiences.

Take a moment to reflect:

  • What are you saying to yourself right now?
  • Is your self-talk rooted in negativity, or is it life-giving?

Your internal narrative dictates how you move forward. To change your direction, you must talk to yourself from a position of strength.

Do not limit yourself to just one identity. For example, my husband was a successful educator and musician, yet together we planned and built two houses. After he passed, I even built one for myself. You have untapped aptitudes that God is waiting for you to use; don’t let a narrow self-image hold you back.

Confronting Fear with Logic and Faith

To move forward, you must have an honest conversation with your fears. Identify your greatest fear and ask yourself why it exists.

Instead of dismissing your fears, examine them. When we break apart our fears logically, we can look for ways to overcome them.

What changes do you need to make in your thinking to see what is truly possible?

Embracing the Journey

Life is a journey full of surprises intended for our growth. When I first decided to start blogging, I discovered a latent joy for writing and sharing information. That one step led to podcasts and several books.

What have you wanted to do but haven’t yet tried? What is stopping you today?

When you step out of your comfort zone, you open the door to a more fulfilling life.

Transitions are rarely easy, but they are the primary way we grow into who we were meant to be. By mastering your self-talk, identifying your talents, and facing your fears, you can navigate change with grace.

Step out in faith today—the benefits of a new perspective are waiting for you.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

Kindness Rewires Your DNA

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Designed for Compassion

Kindness begins with empathy—the act of stepping into another person’s struggle and meeting it with compassion. This isn’t just a social grace; it is a fundamental part of our design.

Kindness does more than make us feel good; it “cultivates happiness” and can actually influence our DNA through the positive actions it inspires.

The Cellular Impact of Good Deeds

Recent research has revealed that performing kind acts for others creates a measurable, healthy change in our “gene activity in immune cells.” Blood samples from participants in these studies showed significant reductions in inflammation and stress markers.

When we live out the biblical mandate to “be kind to one another, tenderhearted” (Ephesians 4:32), we aren’t just following a command—we are participating in our own healing.

Kindness has a profound effect on our overall mental and physical health, while simultaneously motivating those around us to pay that helpfulness forward.

Cultivating a Kind Heart

How do we develop this transformative trait? While some are naturally more empathetic, kindness is a fruit we can nurture. Studies suggest that meditation—or as we might call it, “dwelling on whatever is lovely” (Philippians 4:8)—significantly increases empathy.

Other ways to foster a kind spirit include:

  • Experiencing Awe: Walking through nature and acknowledging the Creator reminds us that we are part of something much larger than ourselves.
  • Practicing Intentionality: One researcher suggests asking ourselves a simple question: Should I do this good thing even if it inconveniences me? The answer is a resounding yes.

A Ripple Effect on Health

We often underestimate the impact that kindness has on our own lives. Ongoing research confirms that kindness doesn’t just boost our mood; it shapes our immune systems at a genetic level. By choosing compassion, we feel better and improve our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

We all desire to live in a world where people encourage and support one another. It is easy to focus on what is going wrong, but we are called to a higher standard of compassion.

When we reach out to help others and show grace to ourselves, we align our bodies and spirits with the way God intended us to live. Kindness isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s the medicine the world, and our bodies, truly need.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

Rhythm Over Rigidity: A Guide to Work-Play Balance

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Finding Your Footing in Every Season

Remember the childhood thrill of walking across a downed log? With arms outstretched to steady yourself, every step required concentration. If you lost your footing, you simply hopped off, shook it off, and stepped back on.

Balancing work and play often feels like that narrow log. When we stumble, we fear we have to start over from scratch, but grace tells us a different story. At any moment, we can pick ourselves up and begin again.

A misstep is not a permanent label of failure; it is simply an invitation to recalibrate.

The Myth of the Perfect Split

In every stumble, there is a takeaway. We learn about our triggers—what sparks hopelessness or anger—and we learn how to choose a better response.

Michael Hyatt noted on his blog:

“Balance doesn’t mean a perfect split between work and personal life. It’s about the right distribution for the season you’re in.”

This mirrors the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which reminds us, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Some seasons require a “deep dive” into a major project, while others demand that we prioritize family and rest. True balance is the flexibility to remain open to God’s shifting lead.

The Rhythm of the Seasons

We see this natural ebb and flow in the world around us. Spring and summer invite us outdoors for gardening and yard work. Fall brings the necessary labor of clearing fallen leaves.

Even our calendar has a spiritual rhythm; sacred seasons like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter require extra energy and intentionality to celebrate God’s goodness.

Personalizing Your Rest

Finding time to relax isn’t just a luxury—it is essential for our health and spiritual well-being.

Rest looks different for everyone. For you, it might be the quiet focus of a puzzle, the escape of a good book, a brisk walk, or a soul-filling conversation with a friend.

Whatever restores your spirit, prioritize it. We were not created for constant production; we were created to enjoy the life and the Creator who sustains us.

Whatever season you find yourself in today, remember that the goal isn’t to walk the log perfectly. The goal is to stay present, stay flexible, and keep moving forward.

If you lose your balance, don’t be discouraged. Dust yourself off, look to the Word for guidance, and step back on. There is plenty of grace for the journey.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

Goal Setting 101: An Essential Worksheet

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Last week on my blog and podcast, we explored the power of anticipating good things every day.

While I have shared insights on goal setting before, it is often helpful to pause and review the fundamental basics that turn a dream into a reality.

The Essential Components of a Goal

To move from a wish to an achievement, your goal needs a solid structure. Consider these key elements:

  • The Goal Statement: Be clear about what you want to accomplish. Use precise language to define your objective.
  • Timeframe: Set a specific start date and a target completion date. Without a deadline, a goal remains a “someday” project.
  • Anticipate Obstacles: Identify the challenges you face right now. In my case, it was finding a lot that fit my needs and a builder I could trust. By listing these early, you can brainstorm ways to overcome them.
  • Plan of Action: Outline a step-by-step path to your finish line. This requires deep thought as you define exactly what needs to happen to reach the end result.

The Power of Motivation and Commitment

Why do we often discard our goals?

Usually, it is because we haven’t identified the benefits. Your benefits must be personal, satisfying, and worth the hard work. Writing these down helps you stay on course when the initial excitement fades.

Additionally, remember these two vital practices:

  1. Ongoing Evaluation: Periodically review your progress. This allows you to correct your course and refine your plan of action.
  2. Affirmation and Visualization: Close your eyes and visualize yourself having reached your goal. Repeat your goal statements as daily affirmations.

A Covenant of Action

The final step is Commitment. Write down your goal, sign it, and date it. This is more than a to-do list; it is a promise to yourself.

If you discover midway that a goal isn’t quite right, don’t be afraid to rework it until it energizes you.

As you plan, remember the wisdom of Proverbs 16:3: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”

When your goals are aligned with your values and backed by a solid plan, you will find the strength to see them through to completion.

Free Goal Worksheet

Click the link to download a PDF of my goal worksheet.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

Anticipating Good Things: Turning Your Vision into Reality

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Lisa Milk, President and CEO of LHOP Therapies, once identified twenty ways to maximize our daily potential.

Her list emphasized organization, preparation, and creating actionable pathways to accomplish our goals.

However, she also highlighted the power of appreciation and visualization.

There is a profound truth in the idea that if you anticipate good things, they are far more likely to occur.

The Power of Expectation

In my previous posts, I encouraged you to identify where you focus your time each day and why that awareness is so critical. As we continue through this year, we are presented with fresh opportunities to take what is truly meaningful and find ways to find ways to make it happen. To succeed, you must first believe that you can make a difference in your own life. That journey begins with the spiritual and mental act of anticipation.

The Bible reminds us of the importance of this mindset in Hebrews 11:1:

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”

When you anticipate good things, you are essentially operating in faith, trusting that God has a purposeful future in store for you.

From Vision to First Steps

To begin, select one thing that is truly important to you and establish it as your primary goal. Define exactly what this goal looks like and determine the necessary first steps. This stage is vital; many goals fail simply because we skip the preparation required to make them a reality.

Review your list of priorities and decide which one to tackle first. As you refine your plan, consider these five questions:

  • Significance: Why is this goal so important, and how will it enrich your life?
  • Timeline: What is the realistic time frame for those first small steps?
  • Recognition: How will you recognize and measure your progress?
  • Motivation: What will keep you moving forward when things get difficult?
  • Reward: How will you celebrate your milestones and reward yourself?

Trusting the Process

Creating a life of meaning is not an accident; it is the result of intentionality, preparation, and a positive outlook. By narrowing your focus and asking the right questions, you move from passive dreaming to active achieving.

Trust that as you take these steps, you are aligning yourself with a greater purpose. When you anticipate good things with a heart of faith, you open the door for those blessings to arrive.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

Finding Your Balance: Why Prayer and Planning Change Everything

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

Every day presents a new array of choices, but which ones do you actively pursue?

You could choose to stay in bed all day, or you can get up and make breakfast. You might spend your time doing only what you feel like doing, or perhaps you tend to procrastinate on unpleasant tasks until they become urgent.

However, there is a better alternative: you can make a conscious decision to plan and work toward meaningful goals.

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

– Proverbs 16:9

The Value of a Balanced Life

Living a fulfilling life requires a healthy balance between productivity and a satisfying personal life. Both are essential. As you review your daily options, consider the unique benefits of both hard work and downtime.

Work provides the necessary funds to pay bills and buy groceries. Furthermore, with intentional planning, you can set aside money for travel and invest in your future.

Learning to budget creates a clear awareness of where your money goes—a vital skill in an era of one-click online purchases and constant marketing. It is easy to buy things impulsively without considering their true value, often letting emotions override practical precautions.

Planning with Purpose

As you evaluate your options—creating budgets, to-do lists, and long-term goals—weigh the pros and cons of every decision.

This process of reflection may take time. However, through prayer, careful planning, and consistent follow-through, you will be surprised by the peace and prosperity that follow.

As the Bible reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3). By seeking God’s guidance in your daily choices, you turn routine tasks into a purposeful journey.

The Intentional Week: A Planning Checklist

Try to complete this checklist on Sunday afternoon or Monday morning. As you check off each item, remember that you are not just managing a schedule—you are stewarding the time and resources God has given you.

1. Spiritual Grounding

  • Set aside 15 minutes for prayer. Ask for wisdom regarding your upcoming tasks and the strength to avoid procrastination.

2. Goal & Task Alignment

  • Identify your “Big Three.” What are the three most meaningful goals you want to accomplish this week?
  • Review the “Unpleasant Tasks.” List the items you’ve been putting off. Schedule them for your highest-energy time (usually Monday or Tuesday morning).
  • Build your daily to-do lists. Ensure each task moves you closer to your long-term goals.

3. Financial Stewardship

  • Review last week’s spending. Check your bank app for “emotional purchases” or impulsive online shopping.
  • Set a “Flexible Fund” limit. Decide on a specific dollar amount for miscellaneous spending to keep your budget on track.
  • Check your savings goals. Ensure you are setting aside funds for future trips or investments as planned.

4. Life Balance & Rest

  • Schedule your “Sabbath” or Downtime. Block out a specific time for rest that does not involve work or screens.
  • Plan your meals. List your grocery needs to avoid the stress (and cost) of last-minute takeout.
  • Coordinate your social life. Ensure you have time scheduled for family, friends, or church community.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.

Rediscovering Your Passion and Purpose

Posted by Marlene Anderson, MA, LMHC, NCC

What Defines Passion?

What is your passion? Passion is often described as a powerful, intense emotion or a deep-rooted love for an activity, person, or idea. It manifests as an overwhelming drive that motivates dedication, focus, and perseverance.

My Mission and Calling

My lifelong passion is learning how to live life to the fullest despite loss and sharing the transformative changes that make a difference. As a Christian, former psychology teacher, and licensed counselor, I combine current research with years of experience working with individuals and groups.

My goal is to help you overcome obstacles, believe in yourself, and develop a “Yes I Can” mindset through practical, easy-to-apply strategies.

A Focus on Women’s Needs

While these life tools are effective for everyone, my primary focus is on women—whether single, married, divorced, or widowed. Many women today navigate overwhelming challenges, from the stress of financial stability to the exhaustion of balancing hard work with the need for rest.

Even for those who are intelligent, competent, and educated, a sense of discontent can linger. This often includes a lack of clarity regarding relationships or a feeling of being disenchanted with traditional church doctrine, despite a steadfast belief in God. Ultimately, most people simply want more out of life than just a daily job; they want to feel truly good about themselves and their efforts.

How to Begin Your Journey

How do you begin such a significant journey?

You start by exploring your feelings, beliefs, and desires more deeply. Rather than ignoring or denying your inner voice, honestly explore who you are.

Revisit the passions you may have buried because you felt they were “wrong” or “unrealistic.” Permit yourself to reflect honestly – the following exercise is for your eyes only—and for God.

Prompts to Help You Recall Childhood Memories

  1. Write down every dream you’ve ever had, going as far back as childhood.
  2. If you could sit down with your 10-year-old self today, what would she say she is most proud of? What was she most excited to tell people she wanted to be when she grew up?
  3. List five things you wanted to do as a child that felt impossible (like going to the moon, being a princess, or talking to animals). Beside each, write down the feeling those dreams gave you (e.g., adventure, elegance, or connection).
  4. What was an activity you could do for hours as a child where you completely lost track of time?

Review the lists you just created. What is one tiny way you can incorporate the feeling of those dreams into your life this week? (e.g., If you wanted to be an astronaut, spend 10 minutes looking at the stars tonight).

As you continue to document your dreams and desires, you will begin to notice doors of opportunity that you previously overlooked.

Threads of Life

Threads of Life: Stories to Warm the Heart and Challenge the Mind, by Marlene AndersonWe will all struggle with burdens and overwhelming odds at some point. But when we encourage one another to not only survive but thrive, we can go on to celebrate life.

How we respond to these experiences will weave together the fabric of who we are. In Threads of Life, you’ll find a tapestry of stories about overcoming adversity, taking that needed risk, and moving beyond your losses to empower your life and find the joy, comfort, and laughter that we all need.

Along the way, you’ll learn valuable lessons about endurance and resilience as you face formidable difficulties. Learn how focusing on what you can do instead of what you can’t enables you to climb any mountain, overcome any obstacle, and praise God in the process—the story of living.

Threads of Life is available on Amazon in paperback and e-book versions.