Purpose

It seems like everywhere we turn the news is bad. We can’t turn on the TV, scroll through the internet, or meander through the casual, water-cooler conversation without some dire news striking us in the heart. People are hurting out there. It’s plain to see. Divided politics, anger, bitterness—it can sometimes seem like these are the currency of modern culture. Quieter, though, are the good things happening. Under the radar and around the world, people are doing spectacular things to help others, to share the good. To reach the underprivileged and share love where love is so sorely lacking. These are the things we need to focus on and to seek out actively if we are to cling to hope and faith

I need to tell myself to get “back in the swing of things” about every two and a half months. I begin by being on target for what I need to do, goals created, focus established, all tools gathered, and I head off. Then, for some reason, I find myself off the rails… looking around, trying to figure out what I need to do, and how I got off track. When I get to this point, I know it’s time to gather the same “Here’s what I need to do” tasks that—when I do them (truth is, I don’t always)—work every time. Here’s what they are: 1. I stop and I shut down. Whether it’s a very long walk in the woods, a movie marathon day,

“You can make today great or not—the choice is yours!” With a quick wink and point at the camera, our beloved elementary school P.E. teacher slides out of the shot. The camera then pans over to the fifth-grade anchors to cap off the morning news broadcast. This whole segment lasts about five seconds, but the truth of the statement is lifelong. We alone possess the power to determine not only our attitude for the day, but how we handle the situations we come across in life. We can’t escape the uncomfortable circumstances, the sad occasions, the hardships, the loss, the stress, and anxiety. As much as we don’t like to admit it, these qualities are hallmarks of life. They must be acknowledged,

One of my main goals at the start of this year was to begin each day with intent and purpose. I am so glad that I stuck with it; it has allowed me to appreciate every day and helped me focus on what’s important. My year has been full of setbacks, triumphs, accomplished goals, and shattered dreams. Without it all, I wouldn’t have been able to see that I can focus on my purpose every day no matter what is going on. In order to achieve my main goal of living with purpose, I must focus on being intentional with my time and energy. There are small and simple ways of doing so, and I think everyone could benefit from some of them.

Perhaps no one has more face time with your child than his or her teacher—except you, of course! Teachers do so much more than instruct: they welcome, encourage, comfort, and discipline the students in their care. They pour themselves out each and every day in the classroom, so they need to be filled too. How can you offer refreshment to your child’s teacher? 1. Don’t assume your child’s teacher knows what a great job he or she is doing. Take the time to send an email, leave a voicemail, or better yet, write a note of gratitude. It is extra-special when you notice something specific and take the time to offer a word of praise. 2. Find out some of your child’s teacher’s

Life can be busy, crazy, and full of ups, downs, and turnarounds no matter what season you are in because, life is life. It can also be in slow motion as you go through times of rest, healing, and being in the in-between of chaos. No matter where you find yourself, it is vital for you to seek and find inspiration in your every day, because there you will find motivation. And where you find motivation, you will also find inspiration. It is a beautiful cycle. But why? I have no doubt that you are doing great and impactful work with the days of your life. You are working. You are mothering. You are studying. You are creating. You are inspiring and

The Little Market is an online fair trade shop founded by fashion designer and former reality TV star, Lauren Conrad, and her friend, Hannah Skvarla. Customers can purchase unique, one-of-a-kind pieces handmade by artisans around the world. The concept of The Little Market began with a friendship. In 2006, Conrad and Skvarla met while studying at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) and quickly connected over their shared love of design, travel, and desire to empower women. The two decided to set out on the road where they explored the local markets of Bali and El Salvador and immediately became inspired. They met and were in awe of the hard-working women who were creating beautiful products–products they loved and knew their