Nichole Nordeman, a Christian American singer-songwriter and an eight-time Dove Award winner, sings a song entitled “Legacy,” which is about doing something eternally significant with our lives that points people to Christ.
I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy
Soul Search: What legacy are you leaving that unapologetically blesses the Lord’s name? How will your understanding that you were born with a God-given lifetime dream impact your day-to-day living?
My Sweet Yahweh, I want to leave a legacy, an offering, that blesses your name unapologetically. Help me to do so, starting immediately.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Do ya think God may be trying to build my character?!
ANYTHING SIMILAR EVER HAPPEN TO YOU?! HOW DID YOU FARE CHARACTER-WISE?
How God Rocked My World in March!
On March 1st, I was preparing to leave California for the Simply Youth Ministry worldwide conference in Chicago to launch The Way I'm Wired series on the topic of life purpose. (That's a DVD curriculum for youth workers and Life Purpose Coach® professionals, a companion book for parents-teens, and a devotional for all ages.) All of a sudden, I got three phone calls back-to-back-to-back.
The first was from my 90-year-old father, a God-adoring man, asking me to rent out my place and to move in with him to care for him, because his kidneys are operating at only 14%. He said, "I need you, Kateness." He also wanted me to help him downsize his possessions in his 2,700 sq. ft. home and to fix up his house a little bit for his final years. (He had cared for my mom in their home during her eight-year illness before she died in 1996, and he had never regained his strength after several bouts with colon cancer himself a few years later.) Moving in with him was a huge decision for me that had lots of ramifications, so I began praying about it immediately, until the phone rang again and interrupted my thoughts.
The next call was from my literary agent, Nancy, telling me that Tyndale Publishers was offering me a firm, extremely handsome contract to write a 400-page book entitled The One Year Recovery Prayer Devotional--which was to be flavored with a life purpose theme for each of the 365 days. I would have sixteen months to get it turned in, unlike the three-product Wired series above for which I had only had nine months.
(You may recall that I had fled to Maui in 2010 to write that Wired series, while my newly married daughter and her husband rented my home before buying their own townhouse. Going Hawaiian and "silent" had removed so many distractions during that impossible assignment for Group Publishing. BTW, with the Holy Spirit fast at work in the Islands, I turned in the DVD one week early, was on time for the parent-teen book, and with my publisher's permission-was one week late for the devotional.)
Back to the main story: As I hung up the phone from Nancy's phone call, my dad called again to see if I had made my decision yet. Instantaneously and undeniably, I knew that God wanted my answer to be YES, of course, I'd be honored. So, on March 7th when I returned from my trip, I drove straight to my dad's house from the airport and moved into one the three vacant upstairs' rooms of his house with no television or landline Internet. (FYI: He lives downstairs. Now, I have a thumb drive for the Internet, but...alas, TV has gone by the wayside.)
So far, with the behemoth help of my seven awesome brothers and sisters serving at fun and exhausting "Work Parties," we've deep-cleaned nearly the entire house and garage, have sent seventy large boxes to Salvation Army, and have had numerous driveways full for Bulky Item Pickup, E-Waste and Hazardous Waste Disposal, and Recycling Trucks! We've met some nice painters, a plumber, an electrician, carpet and linoleum layers, vertical blind installers-and many employees at Home Depot and Lowes-not to mention my dad's doctors, nurses, lab techs, and pharmacists.
I just wanted to keep it real with you, since one of my main life messages is Do today what matters today, and God will take care of the bigger picture of your life and ministry. And, he certainly has done so for me once again. For example, he sent a renter for my home early last week--a Christian woman I've known for years who "just happened" to mention to my daughter that she was looking for a place to live. In addition, already my father has been a tremendous inspiration to me of holy living and God-stories that I predict will be the content for at least sixty-five of the daily devotionals I need to write. What a treat it has been to accept this seasonal assignment to serve my father, while beginning to write another book.
In the meantime, I ask for continual prayers for my father (Charles); for my physical strength (I've lost 19 lbs since the three phone calls); for my character formation during intense times; for my private students, clients, and our LPCCI Affiliates who've been patient with me during this wild, 30-day transition; for focus to begin writing the recovery devotional in earnest; for the Wired series to reach hungry readers worldwide; for clarity regarding all the details of my August trip to South Africa to meet with our five coaches and their churches; and for Pastor Jeff Jernigan (our Men's Division President) and I to develop a strong message about Christian Coaching for the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) global conference in September in TN.
My encouragement to you is that...if God drops something in your lap as an out-of-the-blue assignment--thank him for allowing you to serve in that unexpected way, and then grab all the joy moments that will come chasing after you! This truly has been one of the happiest, most tender, and most precious times of my life. My dad, siblings, and I are making memories that will last forever in my heart.
How God Rocked My World in March!
On March 1st, I was preparing to leave California for the Simply Youth Ministry worldwide conference in Chicago to launch The Way I'm Wired series on the topic of life purpose. (That's a DVD curriculum for youth workers and Life Purpose Coach® professionals, a companion book for parents-teens, and a devotional for all ages.) All of a sudden, I got three phone calls back-to-back-to-back.
The first was from my 90-year-old father, a God-adoring man, asking me to rent out my place and to move in with him to care for him, because his kidneys are operating at only 14%. He said, "I need you, Kateness." He also wanted me to help him downsize his possessions in his 2,700 sq. ft. home and to fix up his house a little bit for his final years. (He had cared for my mom in their home during her eight-year illness before she died in 1996, and he had never regained his strength after several bouts with colon cancer himself a few years later.) Moving in with him was a huge decision for me that had lots of ramifications, so I began praying about it immediately, until the phone rang again and interrupted my thoughts.
The next call was from my literary agent, Nancy, telling me that Tyndale Publishers was offering me a firm, extremely handsome contract to write a 400-page book entitled The One Year Recovery Prayer Devotional--which was to be flavored with a life purpose theme for each of the 365 days. I would have sixteen months to get it turned in, unlike the three-product Wired series above for which I had only had nine months.
(You may recall that I had fled to Maui in 2010 to write that Wired series, while my newly married daughter and her husband rented my home before buying their own townhouse. Going Hawaiian and "silent" had removed so many distractions during that impossible assignment for Group Publishing. BTW, with the Holy Spirit fast at work in the Islands, I turned in the DVD one week early, was on time for the parent-teen book, and with my publisher's permission-was one week late for the devotional.)
Back to the main story: As I hung up the phone from Nancy's phone call, my dad called again to see if I had made my decision yet. Instantaneously and undeniably, I knew that God wanted my answer to be YES, of course, I'd be honored. So, on March 7th when I returned from my trip, I drove straight to my dad's house from the airport and moved into one the three vacant upstairs' rooms of his house with no television or landline Internet. (FYI: He lives downstairs. Now, I have a thumb drive for the Internet, but...alas, TV has gone by the wayside.)
So far, with the behemoth help of my seven awesome brothers and sisters serving at fun and exhausting "Work Parties," we've deep-cleaned nearly the entire house and garage, have sent seventy large boxes to Salvation Army, and have had numerous driveways full for Bulky Item Pickup, E-Waste and Hazardous Waste Disposal, and Recycling Trucks! We've met some nice painters, a plumber, an electrician, carpet and linoleum layers, vertical blind installers-and many employees at Home Depot and Lowes-not to mention my dad's doctors, nurses, lab techs, and pharmacists.
I just wanted to keep it real with you, since one of my main life messages is Do today what matters today, and God will take care of the bigger picture of your life and ministry. And, he certainly has done so for me once again. For example, he sent a renter for my home early last week--a Christian woman I've known for years who "just happened" to mention to my daughter that she was looking for a place to live. In addition, already my father has been a tremendous inspiration to me of holy living and God-stories that I predict will be the content for at least sixty-five of the daily devotionals I need to write. What a treat it has been to accept this seasonal assignment to serve my father, while beginning to write another book.
In the meantime, I ask for continual prayers for my father (Charles); for my physical strength (I've lost 19 lbs since the three phone calls); for my character formation during intense times; for my private students, clients, and our LPCCI Affiliates who've been patient with me during this wild, 30-day transition; for focus to begin writing the recovery devotional in earnest; for the Wired series to reach hungry readers worldwide; for clarity regarding all the details of my August trip to South Africa to meet with our five coaches and their churches; and for Pastor Jeff Jernigan (our Men's Division President) and I to develop a strong message about Christian Coaching for the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) global conference in September in TN.
My encouragement to you is that...if God drops something in your lap as an out-of-the-blue assignment--thank him for allowing you to serve in that unexpected way, and then grab all the joy moments that will come chasing after you! This truly has been one of the happiest, most tender, and most precious times of my life. My dad, siblings, and I are making memories that will last forever in my heart.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
In-between Time
Are you good at taking a break? At being in-between projects? At allowing yourself to enjoy the time of refreshment and rejuvenation that God has provided after a hard season and before the next difficult task? As I catch myself in-between writing the three books for Group Publishing in Maui (2010), I wonder if I've thoroughly enjoyed the downtime in Jan/Feb 2011 prior to the full-on launching of those books in March. Yes, I've visited my sister in WA for 9 days, my grandsons in CO for 2 weeks, my daughter/dad/bros/sisters in CA for a month -- and yes, I seem to be sitting more in God's presence, but have I truly laughed, smiled, and played more -- or am I still the same "serious-minded" soul that forgets to exhale when the pressure is off for a moment? Here's to exhaling, singing, dancing, laughing, smiling, playing more -- when God provides those golden opportunities. WHAT ABOUT YOU? HOW ARE YOU AT BEING IN-BETWEEN THE HEAVY-DUTY STUFF OF LIFE?! Just curious.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
What has helped you recover/heal?
Aloha,
I'm doing a research assignment for a publisher and need your help. Here's my question for you: What has helped you recover/heal from an addiction, obsession, compulsion, issue, regret, shame, fear, or trauma of ANY kind?!
Feel free to include things a therapist, author, support group, friend, or family member taught you--whether the method is spiritual, relational, financial, educational, health-related, physical, psychological, or other type. It can be something simple or something long-term that has changed your life.
Mahalo Nui,
Katieb
I'm doing a research assignment for a publisher and need your help. Here's my question for you: What has helped you recover/heal from an addiction, obsession, compulsion, issue, regret, shame, fear, or trauma of ANY kind?!
Feel free to include things a therapist, author, support group, friend, or family member taught you--whether the method is spiritual, relational, financial, educational, health-related, physical, psychological, or other type. It can be something simple or something long-term that has changed your life.
Mahalo Nui,
Katieb
Saturday, August 07, 2010
What do teenagers want to be when they grow up?
I'D LOVE YOUR INPUT -- FOR MY BOOK FOR TEEN'S ABOUT LIFE PURPOSE (to be released in spring 2011) -- due soon! [The last of the 3 questions is, by far, the most important to me!]
What do teenagers want to be when they grow up?
Think back to your teenage years—what did you want to be when you grew up? Let me take a guess:
Helping professions:
• Police officer or fire/rescue personnel
• Doctor, nurse, veterinarian, or speech/physical therapist
• Teacher, counselor, or social worker
• Priest, nun, pastor, pastor’s spouse, or choir director
• Missionary in Africa (or other impoverished country)
• President of the United States or of your country (or a politician)
• Soldier or military officer
• Scientist who cures a disease or inventor who meets a need
• Lawyer or judge who takes down the bad guys
• World-class chef
• Best-selling author and/or motivational speaker
• Architect, contractor, builder
• Musician, artist, graphic designer
• Wealthy company president
Exciting professions:
• Triple threat movie star: actor/actress, singer, dancer
• Top-ranked athlete
• Somebody famous, like a fashion model, radio broadcaster, or talk show host
• Hobbyist, like a professional surfer, skateboarder (or ski instructor!)
Nowadays, we can add these popular professions:
• Technological genius
• Environmentalist
• Animal rights’ activist
• Reality show star
• Rachel Ray –type brand icon
[BLOGGERS...what have I missed in any of these categories—and can you think of any other major categories I might add?]
What do all these careers have in common? They help someone or they fill a personal need for passion.
[BLOGGERS...what have I missed as far as what they have in common?]
How does this relate to life purpose?
When it comes to God’s plan for your teenager’s life, we use these dreams to get clues, and then we flip the focus onto how the dream could benefit the kingdom!
Here are some real-life examples of people I’ve known, starting with myself and my two kids first:
• Katie dreamed of being a missionary in Africa and writing a book that gave people hope. I adored Sherlock Holmes mysteries and complicated jigsaw puzzles. Today, I am the founder of a missionary-sending agency—and a published author who helps people put together the puzzle of God’s plan for their life. I teach them that God never intended for their life purpose to be a big mystery.
• Stephanie (my daughter) dreamed of being a professional dancer and singer—and also of expanding the Peer Mentoring program at her high school to reach more teenagers. Today, she has completed her master’s degree and is finishing her clinical hours to become a marriage and family therapist. She volunteers at church in the liturgical dance ministry. She daydreams, nearly daily, about opening a Christian camp for young people who need counseling and who would also benefit from dance, music, and art therapy.
• Andy (my son) was greatly affected by the mentoring that a group of godly youth workers poured into him as a teenager, after his father’s death. Also, he was coached in small business, entrepreneurial, and marketing skills by one particular youth pastor who unofficially adopted him. Andy thought he was going to be a youth pastor, but he found his niche as an E-Commerce director of a major Christian youth ministry.
• Other example
• Other example
• Other example
[BLOGGERS...can you add your story here? Maximum word count = 85 words or four sentences. You can use a fake name, if you’d like. Nobody will be identified anyway. MAHALO/THNX/GRACIAS!]
This is a brief gist of the concept that God does work in our lives and our teenager’s lives to unveil the best possible plan—at the best possible moment. Part II will walk you through how to hear God’s best!
What do teenagers want to be when they grow up?
Think back to your teenage years—what did you want to be when you grew up? Let me take a guess:
Helping professions:
• Police officer or fire/rescue personnel
• Doctor, nurse, veterinarian, or speech/physical therapist
• Teacher, counselor, or social worker
• Priest, nun, pastor, pastor’s spouse, or choir director
• Missionary in Africa (or other impoverished country)
• President of the United States or of your country (or a politician)
• Soldier or military officer
• Scientist who cures a disease or inventor who meets a need
• Lawyer or judge who takes down the bad guys
• World-class chef
• Best-selling author and/or motivational speaker
• Architect, contractor, builder
• Musician, artist, graphic designer
• Wealthy company president
Exciting professions:
• Triple threat movie star: actor/actress, singer, dancer
• Top-ranked athlete
• Somebody famous, like a fashion model, radio broadcaster, or talk show host
• Hobbyist, like a professional surfer, skateboarder (or ski instructor!)
Nowadays, we can add these popular professions:
• Technological genius
• Environmentalist
• Animal rights’ activist
• Reality show star
• Rachel Ray –type brand icon
[BLOGGERS...what have I missed in any of these categories—and can you think of any other major categories I might add?]
What do all these careers have in common? They help someone or they fill a personal need for passion.
[BLOGGERS...what have I missed as far as what they have in common?]
How does this relate to life purpose?
When it comes to God’s plan for your teenager’s life, we use these dreams to get clues, and then we flip the focus onto how the dream could benefit the kingdom!
Here are some real-life examples of people I’ve known, starting with myself and my two kids first:
• Katie dreamed of being a missionary in Africa and writing a book that gave people hope. I adored Sherlock Holmes mysteries and complicated jigsaw puzzles. Today, I am the founder of a missionary-sending agency—and a published author who helps people put together the puzzle of God’s plan for their life. I teach them that God never intended for their life purpose to be a big mystery.
• Stephanie (my daughter) dreamed of being a professional dancer and singer—and also of expanding the Peer Mentoring program at her high school to reach more teenagers. Today, she has completed her master’s degree and is finishing her clinical hours to become a marriage and family therapist. She volunteers at church in the liturgical dance ministry. She daydreams, nearly daily, about opening a Christian camp for young people who need counseling and who would also benefit from dance, music, and art therapy.
• Andy (my son) was greatly affected by the mentoring that a group of godly youth workers poured into him as a teenager, after his father’s death. Also, he was coached in small business, entrepreneurial, and marketing skills by one particular youth pastor who unofficially adopted him. Andy thought he was going to be a youth pastor, but he found his niche as an E-Commerce director of a major Christian youth ministry.
• Other example
• Other example
• Other example
[BLOGGERS...can you add your story here? Maximum word count = 85 words or four sentences. You can use a fake name, if you’d like. Nobody will be identified anyway. MAHALO/THNX/GRACIAS!]
This is a brief gist of the concept that God does work in our lives and our teenager’s lives to unveil the best possible plan—at the best possible moment. Part II will walk you through how to hear God’s best!
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Greetings from Maui
I've come to the conclusion that to LIVE BIG (which is the name of my most recent book that purports to have some answers in it on this topic)...you really have to live small. I know that may not make sense at first blush, but here's the gist of what I have discovered in the past six months that I wish had made it into the book before it was published:
I'm living in a 650 sq. ft. condo in Maui. My daughter and her husband (newly married) are renting my CA place from me. I have left my car on the mainland with a young couple from church who only had one car, so I ride a $129 blue Lady's Beach Cruiser bike (love it!!) and take a bus wherever I want to go. I only buy what I can carry in my bike basket or backpack. My church is a little 1850's Hawaiian chapel that seats 70 people and sings/prays sometimes in Hawaiian. My entertainment is a movie at the theater every 3 months or a rental for $3.99 from ITunes --and a daily swim in the ocean. I only eat out once or twice a month for a delicious burger, unless I have family visiting! I have 3-4 casual outfits in the closet and wear flip flops most days...unless I'm in tennis shoes out for a walk. I brought over 100 lbs of "my stuff" (lots of that was for our September training event here), and the rest fits in a CA storage unit that is a 5' x 10'. I gave tons away to family, friends, and Goodwill -- before I moved.
Ok...you get the idea. I live a very simple life, and frankly, I CAN'T REMEMBER when I have been this happy or productive! (Am on an Oct 31st deadline writing a DVD Curriculum for Youth, a parent trade book, and a student devotional trade book.) True, I'm looking at the ocean when I type -- and I understand that is a huge part of my joy. But, my conclusion is this:
LESS IS BETTER. SIMPLE IS GREAT. SMALL MAKES ROOM FOR LIVING BIG IN AREAS THAT MATTER!
Tell me what you think? Does this sound right to you, or am I just awestruck at the beauty of the Islands? Trust me, I thank God a zillion times a day for the location, but with that out of the equation, is my conclusion correct? (Sure don't want God to test my simplicity theory by moving me; would rather have you help me sort out my thoughts!)
Mahalo for sharing your thoughts,
Katieb
I'm living in a 650 sq. ft. condo in Maui. My daughter and her husband (newly married) are renting my CA place from me. I have left my car on the mainland with a young couple from church who only had one car, so I ride a $129 blue Lady's Beach Cruiser bike (love it!!) and take a bus wherever I want to go. I only buy what I can carry in my bike basket or backpack. My church is a little 1850's Hawaiian chapel that seats 70 people and sings/prays sometimes in Hawaiian. My entertainment is a movie at the theater every 3 months or a rental for $3.99 from ITunes --and a daily swim in the ocean. I only eat out once or twice a month for a delicious burger, unless I have family visiting! I have 3-4 casual outfits in the closet and wear flip flops most days...unless I'm in tennis shoes out for a walk. I brought over 100 lbs of "my stuff" (lots of that was for our September training event here), and the rest fits in a CA storage unit that is a 5' x 10'. I gave tons away to family, friends, and Goodwill -- before I moved.
Ok...you get the idea. I live a very simple life, and frankly, I CAN'T REMEMBER when I have been this happy or productive! (Am on an Oct 31st deadline writing a DVD Curriculum for Youth, a parent trade book, and a student devotional trade book.) True, I'm looking at the ocean when I type -- and I understand that is a huge part of my joy. But, my conclusion is this:
LESS IS BETTER. SIMPLE IS GREAT. SMALL MAKES ROOM FOR LIVING BIG IN AREAS THAT MATTER!
Tell me what you think? Does this sound right to you, or am I just awestruck at the beauty of the Islands? Trust me, I thank God a zillion times a day for the location, but with that out of the equation, is my conclusion correct? (Sure don't want God to test my simplicity theory by moving me; would rather have you help me sort out my thoughts!)
Mahalo for sharing your thoughts,
Katieb
Monday, March 15, 2010
ALL DONE!!!! Your Research Help Was Awesome!
ALL DONE!!! THANK YOU-MAHALO-GRACIAS!!
With all the off-line entries received in addition to the Comments below, we are completely done!! Many thanks.
ORIGINAL REQUEST:
I am doing research for two new books that I am writing. Do you have a favorite Scripture verse/passage (or 2-3-4 verses/passages!) about…
PURPOSE-IN-LIFE
GOD’S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE
GOD’S PLAN FOR A BIBLE CHARACTER’S LIFE
…in one of these books of the Bible noted below? If so, please reply here and tell why you like it! Thank you very much for your assistance. I’m racing the clock to complete these books.
Instructions that will help save time on this end:
1. Please do not post on any of the books of the Bible that are NOT mentioned here – even if you have some all-time favorites. Much appreciated, since I already have more than enough verses/passages from the other books – and need to stay focused on what is still missing.
2. If you use www.BibleGateway.com, that site will allow you to use the NLT (New Living Translation) and you can simply cut/paste it into its own box – and hit “Reply/Post.” [You may put one verse or many verses in a given post – your choice of how you like to operate. Feel free to simply give the reference, and not the text, if that is easier on you.]
3. If you notice that someone else has already mentioned one of your favorite verses, thanks for not listing that verse again!
4. You may post as many verses or as many times as you like! I need all the help I can get. [If you are serious about checking many verses/passages, you may want to cut/paste the list below and work offline – to avoid cyberspace catastrophes. If you do come up with MANY verses or passages, feel free to email them to me at Info@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com. [Tell me in advance of your quest…and I will hold you and your efforts up to the Lord, by name, for his blessing of your Bible search.]
5. These two books I’m working on won’t allow for “contributors” to be thanked, but I want to thank you in advance right now! THANK YOU SO MUCH! You know that I prayerfully appreciate it, as I hope these manuscripts will be life-changing for the readers.
ONLY 12 BOOKS I NEED YOUR HELP ON:
2 Samuel
1 Kings
2 Kings
2 Chronicles
Ezra
Ecclesiastes
Song of Songs
Isaiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel
Hosea
With all the off-line entries received in addition to the Comments below, we are completely done!! Many thanks.
ORIGINAL REQUEST:
I am doing research for two new books that I am writing. Do you have a favorite Scripture verse/passage (or 2-3-4 verses/passages!) about…
PURPOSE-IN-LIFE
GOD’S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE
GOD’S PLAN FOR A BIBLE CHARACTER’S LIFE
…in one of these books of the Bible noted below? If so, please reply here and tell why you like it! Thank you very much for your assistance. I’m racing the clock to complete these books.
Instructions that will help save time on this end:
1. Please do not post on any of the books of the Bible that are NOT mentioned here – even if you have some all-time favorites. Much appreciated, since I already have more than enough verses/passages from the other books – and need to stay focused on what is still missing.
2. If you use www.BibleGateway.com, that site will allow you to use the NLT (New Living Translation) and you can simply cut/paste it into its own box – and hit “Reply/Post.” [You may put one verse or many verses in a given post – your choice of how you like to operate. Feel free to simply give the reference, and not the text, if that is easier on you.]
3. If you notice that someone else has already mentioned one of your favorite verses, thanks for not listing that verse again!
4. You may post as many verses or as many times as you like! I need all the help I can get. [If you are serious about checking many verses/passages, you may want to cut/paste the list below and work offline – to avoid cyberspace catastrophes. If you do come up with MANY verses or passages, feel free to email them to me at Info@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com. [Tell me in advance of your quest…and I will hold you and your efforts up to the Lord, by name, for his blessing of your Bible search.]
5. These two books I’m working on won’t allow for “contributors” to be thanked, but I want to thank you in advance right now! THANK YOU SO MUCH! You know that I prayerfully appreciate it, as I hope these manuscripts will be life-changing for the readers.
ONLY 12 BOOKS I NEED YOUR HELP ON:
2 Samuel
1 Kings
2 Kings
2 Chronicles
Ezra
Ecclesiastes
Song of Songs
Isaiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel
Hosea
Friday, January 15, 2010
Are you living big? Describe what a large, passionate life looks like for you.
My new book, "Live Big! 10 Life Coaching Tips for Living a Large, Passionate Life" is now out -- I'm so excited. I'd love to hear your thoughts about how you would live (or are living) a large, passionate life! Here is an excerpt from the end of Chapter 8. How would you respond?
Reflection
Think about the following question as you read the rest of the book. We’ll use your daydreaming about it in Step 10: Capture Your Live Big! Dream.
Basic premises
• If you had assurance from God that He was thrilled with your plans to follow your dream and that He would not let you fail . . .
• If you had all the time and energy you needed . . .
• If the entire world were eager to support your vision with money and resources . . .
• If this were the ideal season of your life . . .
Specific premises in these eight chapters
• If you were free of all your fears . . .
• If you truly had discovered the benefits and joy of exhaling . . .
• If you honored your deepest longings . . .
• If you knew for sure that you would persevere to the end of the race . . .
• If you were healed of the wounds in your past and determined to let God use them . . .
• If you were in the habit of always expecting miracles . . .
• If you had lovingly forgiven yourself and everyone who ever hurt you—and you knew that you had been forgiven unconditionally by God and others . . .
• If you were in the habit of eating dessert first, of enjoying life to the fullest . . .
. . . what passionate, Live Big! dream would you pursue?
I say no holds barred on your answer to this last reflection question!
Reflection
Think about the following question as you read the rest of the book. We’ll use your daydreaming about it in Step 10: Capture Your Live Big! Dream.
Basic premises
• If you had assurance from God that He was thrilled with your plans to follow your dream and that He would not let you fail . . .
• If you had all the time and energy you needed . . .
• If the entire world were eager to support your vision with money and resources . . .
• If this were the ideal season of your life . . .
Specific premises in these eight chapters
• If you were free of all your fears . . .
• If you truly had discovered the benefits and joy of exhaling . . .
• If you honored your deepest longings . . .
• If you knew for sure that you would persevere to the end of the race . . .
• If you were healed of the wounds in your past and determined to let God use them . . .
• If you were in the habit of always expecting miracles . . .
• If you had lovingly forgiven yourself and everyone who ever hurt you—and you knew that you had been forgiven unconditionally by God and others . . .
• If you were in the habit of eating dessert first, of enjoying life to the fullest . . .
. . . what passionate, Live Big! dream would you pursue?
I say no holds barred on your answer to this last reflection question!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Purpose Angst?!
Hi there!
I'm looking for metaphors and similes about what your search for purpose has felt like.
I'm writing a new book that talks about people's "Purpose Angst." Some have a mild case and some, like me, have had a severe case. Pastor Rick Warren (at the purpose driven Saddleback Church) once said that I needed a daily purpose transfusion to keep me alive.. so yes, I had an extreme case.
Whatever comparison you can think of would be awesome! [And, feel free to provide some additional background information, if you want.]
Example: I felt like my heart was tied up in a big knot.
Example: It felt as if I were a little kid in a candy store who was not allowed to buy any candy.
Can't wait to hear from you,
Katieb
I'm looking for metaphors and similes about what your search for purpose has felt like.
I'm writing a new book that talks about people's "Purpose Angst." Some have a mild case and some, like me, have had a severe case. Pastor Rick Warren (at the purpose driven Saddleback Church) once said that I needed a daily purpose transfusion to keep me alive.. so yes, I had an extreme case.
Whatever comparison you can think of would be awesome! [And, feel free to provide some additional background information, if you want.]
Example: I felt like my heart was tied up in a big knot.
Example: It felt as if I were a little kid in a candy store who was not allowed to buy any candy.
Can't wait to hear from you,
Katieb
Thursday, June 04, 2009
The Graduation Season Has Started!
With graduation in the June air, I'd like to ask you to share your most important or memorable Spiritual Graduation Moment -- something that was hard to do, but you did it out of obedience to God!!
NOT INCLUDING: Your salvation.
I'm looking more for surrender and spiritual growth stories -- that will bless other Christians who may be struggling, while reading this BLOG.
Think discipleship, not evangelism!
Can't wait to hear about Your Moment of Truth! - but remember not to include confidential details,
Katieb
NOT INCLUDING: Your salvation.
I'm looking more for surrender and spiritual growth stories -- that will bless other Christians who may be struggling, while reading this BLOG.
Think discipleship, not evangelism!
Can't wait to hear about Your Moment of Truth! - but remember not to include confidential details,
Katieb
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
WHERE R U...on the Road From Success to Significance?
E-Coaching Tips
May 09
May 09
WHERE R U ON...
The 8 Stages on the Road From Success to Significance
1. Disengage to think.
2. Do a self-assessment to understand what "build on your strength" means to you.
3. Find your spiritual core.
4. Envision your mission-in-life.
5. Clear your plate to create capacity.
6. Build a "Second-Half Team" to support your mission.
7. Test your concepts in low cost probes, as well as with seismic testing!
8. Re-paradigm your life. Develop an entirely new way of thinking about your life.
Adapted from Game Plan
Adapted from Game Plan
by Bob Buford
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
WE JUST GOT ICF-PROVIDER APPROVAL!!! YAHOO!
NEWS FLASH:
Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® was ICF-approved TODAY as a provider of "Continuing Coaching Education" units by the International Coach Federation for our Courses #101, 201, 301, and 401a/b!!! (We only have 401c left to submit, and we will make sure that is done prior to presenting at the American Association of Christian Counselors' World Conference in Sept 09 in TN.)
Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® was ICF-approved TODAY as a provider of "Continuing Coaching Education" units by the International Coach Federation for our Courses #101, 201, 301, and 401a/b!!! (We only have 401c left to submit, and we will make sure that is done prior to presenting at the American Association of Christian Counselors' World Conference in Sept 09 in TN.)
This is HUGE for Christian Coaches - to be recognized by a secular entity that, in many respects, governs coach training!
Monday, January 26, 2009
What are your favorite sayings?!
I find myself saying these things all the time...
It's not my business.
Never, never, never give up! (Winston Churchill)
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Read chapter
What if?
Why not?
What are some of your favorite sayings? Post your answer here and/or on my Twitter page (http://twitter.com) or my Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com.) -- both under Katie Brazelton.
Hugs on this cold day in SO CA,
kb
It's not my business.
Never, never, never give up! (Winston Churchill)
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Read chapter
What if?
Why not?
What are some of your favorite sayings? Post your answer here and/or on my Twitter page (http://twitter.com) or my Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com.) -- both under Katie Brazelton.
Hugs on this cold day in SO CA,
kb
Monday, December 22, 2008
Happy New Year - Welcome 2009 in style!
The last part of 2008 has been a rocky road for me -- with crazy things like credit card fraud while the card was still in my wallet, lost luggage for 36 hours with my laptop battery in it, a flat tire on one of the busiest days of my life, numb hands that don't work without electrodes
zapping them, crashed computer (that one was totally my fault for plugging in a wrong cable! GGRR!), virus on a loaner-computer, leaky water heater which left me with no hot water for 5 days and showering at the community pool, book deadline in the next 50 days -- and trying to teach for Rockbridge Seminary and sit on a 2-day Jury Selection process while physically and emotionally helping my son's family move to Colorado and my daughter move to a neighboring county in CA.
zapping them, crashed computer (that one was totally my fault for plugging in a wrong cable! GGRR!), virus on a loaner-computer, leaky water heater which left me with no hot water for 5 days and showering at the community pool, book deadline in the next 50 days -- and trying to teach for Rockbridge Seminary and sit on a 2-day Jury Selection process while physically and emotionally helping my son's family move to Colorado and my daughter move to a neighboring county in CA.
But...what I learned during this odd season is that as I was tempted to throw a pity party, all I had to do was to ask others how they were doing to have my eyes really opened! I was so often
humbled by really tough situations in other's lives. For example, two friends lost their houses this week; another friend's husband is today having tests for possible colon cancer; and another friend's husband lost his job.
humbled by really tough situations in other's lives. For example, two friends lost their houses this week; another friend's husband is today having tests for possible colon cancer; and another friend's husband lost his job.
May I urge you during this New Year to be like Christ who cared deeply about the trials of others. Take the time to ask the all-important question: Do you have any prayer requests!? You will be forever blessed by asking the question and then praying for others. BTW, I often ask a waitress/waiter serving a meal: "We are about to offer thanks for this meal you have served us. Is there any prayer request we can include for you?"
But, if you try that, I must warn you to brace yourself. The last time I asked a waitress that question, she said to us: "Yes, please pray for my twin infant boys who were just born a few days ago and have to stay in the hospital for three more weeks. I'm really worried about them."
People are hurting. OFFER TO PRAY FOR THEM! You will make the birth, life, and death of Jesus more tangible for them and for yourself. May 2009 bring God's best for you and your family! And, may the prayers you offer on behalf of others change your life forever.
Hugs,
Katie Brazelton
Founder
Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®
Monday, November 10, 2008
LPCCI CHRISTMAS SALE EXTRAVAGANZA!
SMALL GROUP CHRISTMAS GIFTS
Autographed Copies of Books!!
With 1 Dozen Books (minimum order), get...
- All books autographed
- Personalized email from author, Dr. Katie Brazelton, for your Small Group, other friends, family members, or clients.
- 1 free book of your choice!
All orders paid by Monday, Nov 17th, take 10% off total cost!
Pathway to Purpose for Women Personal Journal - Only 2 copies available! (Retail $9.99; Today: $7)
Pathway to Purpose for Women Audio CD - Only 5 copies available!
(Retail $19.99; Today: $15)Character Makeover: 40 Days with a Life Coach to Create the Best You - Only 4 copies! (Retail $12.99; Today: $10) Conversations on Purpose for Women - 24 copies available(Retail $14.99; Today: $9)Also available: EZ-Forms for Coaches and Clients to do long-distance with electronic templates Also available: 2 copies KoreanPraying for Purpose for Women - 28 copies available(Retail $14.99; Today: $9)Also available: 2 copies Chinese; 3 copies Portuguese
Pathway to Purpose for Women - 36 copies available (Retail $19.99; Today: $12)Also available: 1 copy ChineseDaily Seeds for Women Who Walk in Faith (Moody Radio) - 1 Devotional by Katie Brazelton(Retail $14.99; only offered as one of the free options while supply lasts - for those ordering at least 2 dozen books! This item is brand new -- only a few weeks old!)
HOW TO PLACE AN ORDER: Send an email to confirm that we still have the books you want in stock. WomensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com or MensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com or CouplesInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCentes.com. Then, request a PayPal Invoice or confirm total amount for the check you are mailing.____________________________ ALSO OFFERING A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA FOR MEN!
Conversations on Purpose: For Men10 Appointments that Will Help You Discover God's Plan for Your Life EMAIL TO PURCHASE AN ELECTRONIC COPY
OF THIS E-BOOK AND EZ-FORMS TODAY!____________________________
Sunday, August 24, 2008
My second grandson has been born!
My grandson was born. Everybody is healthy and napping -- and I mean EVERYBODY!
Born 12:46am Sunday in the middle of night
Easy delivery (Julie says!)
7 lbs + 21 inches
Alert and happy baby.
Thanks for your prayers and wishes of health.
I wanted to share my joy with you. I’m so excited,
Katie (Grammie)
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Would you like to comment: on "Effective Coaching" and/or pray with us?
E-Coaching Tips
August 08
This Month's Coaching Focus:
Key Behaviors and Skills for Effective Coaching
Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® teaches its Life Purpose Coach® students to operate from the following guidelines of key behaviors and skills that define today's coaching environment and create a solid foundation for effective coaching. We believe in and urge you to adopt similar practices when coaching, mentoring, and/or discipling others:
Meeting ethical guidelines and professional standards
Establishing a Coaching Agreement
Establishing trust and intimacy with the client
Being fully present for the client
Listening actively
Asking powerful questions
Communicating directly
Creating awareness
Designing action steps
Planning and goal-setting
Managing progress and accountability
These 11 principles are in agreement with the standards of the International Coach Federation.
----------------------------------
Friends, my heart is heavy with prayer requests that some of our Coaches have shared with me in telephone conversations and via emails during the past two months. I want to generically mention these to you, so you can know how to pray for us - as you better understand that Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® is more than an organization. We are family!
Our Coach's Prayer Requests:
Quadriplegic daughter
Double Mastectomy (2 Coaches)
Mortgage just increased $1000
Laid off from day job
Parents with terminal illness (3 Coaches)
Grief over having to turn off her sister's Life Support
Spouse's affair
Pregnant teen
Numbness in extremities
Thunderstorm destroyed computers/printer
Longing to be in full-time ministry with spouse
Teen suspended from a Christian College for drug use
Fear of giving a speech
Fear of taking the next step in ministry
Recession impact on family business
Alcoholic sister
West Nile Virus scare
Africa Visa approval to attend Laguna training
Indonesia travel arrangements to attend the training
My Personal Prayer Requests this Month:
Healing from two back surgeries (Jan and June 08)
My dad's two cancer surgeries this summer
Hard Drive crash last week
New book deadline on January 1, 2009
New website development (with bells and whistles)
Radio Show or at least a Radio Blog
International Coach Federation (ICF) Application
Thanks for supporting us in prayer this month,
Katie Brazelton
Founder, Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®
August 08
This Month's Coaching Focus:
Key Behaviors and Skills for Effective Coaching
Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® teaches its Life Purpose Coach® students to operate from the following guidelines of key behaviors and skills that define today's coaching environment and create a solid foundation for effective coaching. We believe in and urge you to adopt similar practices when coaching, mentoring, and/or discipling others:
Meeting ethical guidelines and professional standards
Establishing a Coaching Agreement
Establishing trust and intimacy with the client
Being fully present for the client
Listening actively
Asking powerful questions
Communicating directly
Creating awareness
Designing action steps
Planning and goal-setting
Managing progress and accountability
These 11 principles are in agreement with the standards of the International Coach Federation.
----------------------------------
Friends, my heart is heavy with prayer requests that some of our Coaches have shared with me in telephone conversations and via emails during the past two months. I want to generically mention these to you, so you can know how to pray for us - as you better understand that Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® is more than an organization. We are family!
Our Coach's Prayer Requests:
Quadriplegic daughter
Double Mastectomy (2 Coaches)
Mortgage just increased $1000
Laid off from day job
Parents with terminal illness (3 Coaches)
Grief over having to turn off her sister's Life Support
Spouse's affair
Pregnant teen
Numbness in extremities
Thunderstorm destroyed computers/printer
Longing to be in full-time ministry with spouse
Teen suspended from a Christian College for drug use
Fear of giving a speech
Fear of taking the next step in ministry
Recession impact on family business
Alcoholic sister
West Nile Virus scare
Africa Visa approval to attend Laguna training
Indonesia travel arrangements to attend the training
My Personal Prayer Requests this Month:
Healing from two back surgeries (Jan and June 08)
My dad's two cancer surgeries this summer
Hard Drive crash last week
New book deadline on January 1, 2009
New website development (with bells and whistles)
Radio Show or at least a Radio Blog
International Coach Federation (ICF) Application
Thanks for supporting us in prayer this month,
Katie Brazelton
Founder, Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Do you agree with Dr. Gary Collins about "How to Evaluate Your Vision"?!
Let me know what you think of this list?!
EVAULATING YOUR VISION
Each vision is unique, but clear, God-given visions will have these similar characteristics:
Consistent with Scripture. No vision from God will violate any biblical teaching. Every vision for an individual or organization is consistent with God's plans as recorded in God's Word.
Consistent with your spiritual gifts, values, and passion.
Worthwhile. God-given visions are worth living for, sacrificing for, committing to, and maybe even worth dying for.
Clear and concise. They are easy to understand, remember, and communicate.
Characterized by high ideals. Every good vision must include commitment to excellence, integrity, respect for people, and similar values.
Ambitious. The best visions will guide, often amaze, and move people forward toward something much better than the status quo.
Scary. God-given visions can be life-changing, pulling us out of our comfort zones, instilling awe, stretching us beyond what we may see as our limits.
Unique. Does your vision really reflect who you are? If people who know you well are surprised by your vision, you probably don't have the right vision. And if your vision is the same as everyone else's vision, something is wrong.
Compelling. Visions feel right. They excite, motivate, and generate enthusiasm. The more you reflect on the vision the more you are convinced that this is what you have to do. If your vision brings a "ho-hum" response from others, something is wrong. If it doesn't inspire you, forget it. Visions that don't inspire aren't God-given visions.
Gary Collins, Helping Others Turn Potential into Reality: Christian Coaching. (NavPress, 2001): 126. [Dr. Collins is a licensed clinical psychologist and author of more than 50 books.]
EVAULATING YOUR VISION
Each vision is unique, but clear, God-given visions will have these similar characteristics:
Consistent with Scripture. No vision from God will violate any biblical teaching. Every vision for an individual or organization is consistent with God's plans as recorded in God's Word.
Consistent with your spiritual gifts, values, and passion.
Worthwhile. God-given visions are worth living for, sacrificing for, committing to, and maybe even worth dying for.
Clear and concise. They are easy to understand, remember, and communicate.
Characterized by high ideals. Every good vision must include commitment to excellence, integrity, respect for people, and similar values.
Ambitious. The best visions will guide, often amaze, and move people forward toward something much better than the status quo.
Scary. God-given visions can be life-changing, pulling us out of our comfort zones, instilling awe, stretching us beyond what we may see as our limits.
Unique. Does your vision really reflect who you are? If people who know you well are surprised by your vision, you probably don't have the right vision. And if your vision is the same as everyone else's vision, something is wrong.
Compelling. Visions feel right. They excite, motivate, and generate enthusiasm. The more you reflect on the vision the more you are convinced that this is what you have to do. If your vision brings a "ho-hum" response from others, something is wrong. If it doesn't inspire you, forget it. Visions that don't inspire aren't God-given visions.
Gary Collins, Helping Others Turn Potential into Reality: Christian Coaching. (NavPress, 2001): 126. [Dr. Collins is a licensed clinical psychologist and author of more than 50 books.]
Sunday, June 08, 2008
LPCCI has incredible news to share this summer!
Thank you so much to those of you who prayed us through the enormous 9-month (5-dozen reams of paper!) project to become an authorized provider of Continuing Education Units for the International Association of Continuing Education Training.
These words below were sweet to our ears in late-May: "Congratulations, your application to become an IACET Authorized Provider has been approved by the Commission."
We want to pause and thank God for this enormous blessing - that we will be able to reach nurses, social workers, counselors, therapists, teachers, ministers, etc., as they help people discover and fulfill God's plan for their lives. What a humbling honor to impact lives in this way. It is a very historic moment for our ministry to open our IACET Division with the addition of our Dean of Acadmic Affairs, Kathryn McColskey, Ph.D., and our Registrar, Susan Singleton, JD. In addition, we are thrilled to announce that our first applicant was a female Methodist Minister!
If you know of any groups who typically need CEU's related to our curriculum, please email us about how we might be able to spread the word with them.
Hope you enjoy the June '08 E-Coaching Tips below.
Join us Sept 08 in Laguna Beach, CA for our Life Purpose Facilitator Training!
May God's abundance be evident to you this summer!
Katie Brazelton
Founder, Life Purpose Coaching Centers Intl®
Check out our Character Makeover BLOG on the left Nav Bar of our homepage.
ASK US TO CONNECT YOU TO AN ONLINE CHARACTER MAKEOVER BOOK STUDY WITH ONE OF OUR COACHES!
_______________________________________
E-COACHING TIPS - JUNE O8
Ask your client or friend these leading questions and see where the conversation goes! We guarantee it will go deep and rich fast, so make sure you pray before you begin. And, remember to listen carefully.
What's right with your life?
What's wrong?
What's missing?
What are you afraid of?
Where's your leverage?
(i.e., time, money, passion, energy, ability, credentials, network, platform, spiritual giftedness, self-discipline, proven track record, support system, Hebrews 11 faith, etc.)
What's confusing?
What are you passionate about?
Sunday, May 04, 2008
This Month's Coaching Focus: When to Say Yes to a Ministry
This Month's Coaching Focus:
When to Say Yes to a Ministry
Because each one of us is already over-committed, it is very important that we set healthy boundaries for ourselves in ministry. Of course, we say yes to short-term ministry obligations when there is a great need, but these tips are targeted at long-term ministry commitments. These are the types of tips a Life Purpose Coach® would use with you:
Say yes when...
1. You have done an honest appraisal of the time commitment.
2. Your skills/talents/abilities match the task.
3. You will be operating in your spiritual giftedness.
4. You know that it is the correct season of your life to serve in this capacity.
5. You have pure motives for serving in this area.
6. You have been affirmed by other mature Christians.
7. You will have a support system.
8. You have some semblance of balance in your life.
9. You believe there will be noticeable fruit of changed lives.
10. You know that the ministry's methodogy works or can be tweaked.
11. You can surrender it all to God.
12. You sense that you "can't not" do it.
13. You have prayerfully sought God's will and have a green light to proceed.
vs. Opportunity knocks and you walk through the door out of guilt, duty, or an impure motive!
BLOG with me on this topic! TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK!
God bless,
Katieb
When to Say Yes to a Ministry
Because each one of us is already over-committed, it is very important that we set healthy boundaries for ourselves in ministry. Of course, we say yes to short-term ministry obligations when there is a great need, but these tips are targeted at long-term ministry commitments. These are the types of tips a Life Purpose Coach® would use with you:
Say yes when...
1. You have done an honest appraisal of the time commitment.
2. Your skills/talents/abilities match the task.
3. You will be operating in your spiritual giftedness.
4. You know that it is the correct season of your life to serve in this capacity.
5. You have pure motives for serving in this area.
6. You have been affirmed by other mature Christians.
7. You will have a support system.
8. You have some semblance of balance in your life.
9. You believe there will be noticeable fruit of changed lives.
10. You know that the ministry's methodogy works or can be tweaked.
11. You can surrender it all to God.
12. You sense that you "can't not" do it.
13. You have prayerfully sought God's will and have a green light to proceed.
vs. Opportunity knocks and you walk through the door out of guilt, duty, or an impure motive!
BLOG with me on this topic! TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK!
God bless,
Katieb
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