RiseUP Blog

Consider doing the Benjamin Franklin method of making important decisions: create a pros and cons list, and whichever column makes the most sense is your result.

Weather is an important factor in my topic today: mental exhaustion. We have hit that time in winter that makes us all groan in one way or another.

This week I want to cover the idea of decluttering your personal space—not only in the sense of physical clutter, but also in terms of surrounding yourself with the wrong people and/or thoughts.

Whenever it’s cold, be sure to carry a jacket or coat with you in case your vehicle breaks down.

Getting a job is one of the best decisions that I made during my high school years—a decision that hopefully you will make, too.

Last night, I had to do something I absolutely dread...

You will never know how much it means to someone who is lonely when you take a genuine interest in them. You can make a person who feels worthless suddenly feel they are worthwhile.

Trying new things during your teenage years is not only normal, but also really important in helping you strengthen your sense of self.

I cannot compare my achievements (or perceived lack of them) to others, and you shouldn’t either. We can have the same situational experience but take away totally different internal realizations.

With either a traditional vacation or a staycation, you can schedule a time to unplug from technology, engage in the hobbies you keep telling yourself you want to do more, or take LOTS of naps. (I personally encourage you to do that.)

I am suggesting this in place of resolutions because if we focus too much on what we want to “fix” about ourselves, we forget about the good things about us we already have.

A young person getting upset about not getting what he or she wants is no more abnormal than a dog dangling a rope. Adults don’t need to pick up the rope and fight it out.

More often than not, the choice to stay away from the dinner table is made with little to no thought.

“Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not. Remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.” –Epicurus

I want to use a Thanksgiving meal favorite to illustrate an important concept…being yourself in this crazy world.

All of us could send text messages or emails to members (or friends) of the family who have served in the military and say how much we appreciate their contributions to the safety and security of our nation.

If you don’t have the money for a particular thing, do not buy it. People get into debt (and trouble) when they spend money they don’t have.

I am thankful for the opportunity to write to you every week, and I hope you will have a great weekend and a safe Halloween.

Just keep your head up and your eyes open. Something good might be about to come your way.

JOKE OF THE WEEK: Why did the pumpkin lose the boxing match? He let his gourd down.