Various Topics | The Preacher's Pen

From Memories to Mindfulness: Making Social Media Work for You

Tired of the endless swipe-and-scroll routine on social media? Tired of feeling like you’re missing out on what’s truly important?

Let’s change that.

It’s about turning your go-to social platforms, like Instagram and Facebook, from being just a time-killer to a means for being more mindful and getting some personal growth in there too. We’ll show you how to shake up your digital habits and turn those throwback posts into a love for the here-and-now, plus get excited about what’s next.

Stick with us, and we’ll share tips to make social media a power tool for being present, growing yourself, and living your best life.

Reclaim Your Time

The Real Deal on Endless Scrolling

Let’s get real about the cost of mindlessly thumbing through social media: on average, folks are dropping a whole 2 hours and 24 minutes every day on these apps. Add that up, and you’re looking at more than 5 years over your lifetime. That’s a lot of life that could be spent on stuff that actually fires you up or moves you toward your dreams.

Time lost on social media isn’t just about the clock ticking; it’s about missed connections, learning opportunities, and personal growth. Time’s precious, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Don’t let social media munch away at your minutes. Think about what you could be doing instead—picking up a new hobby, diving into a heart project, or just chilling out.

Recognize the real value of time and choose to spend it in ways that boost your personal journey and well-being.

Making Social Media Intentional

When you open up a social app, is it with a clear purpose or just out of habit?

Knowing why you’re there makes all the difference. Before you even tap that icon, take a moment to ask yourself what you’re after. Staying in touch with buddies, looking for some inspiration, or maybe learning something new?

This quick self-check before you dive in leads to smarter, more focused online time. It’s like a filter that helps you cut through the noise and zoom in on the stuff that’s actually good for you.

Bottom line: social media’s a tool, and it’s all in how you use it. Handle it with care and a clear mind, and you’ll turn it into your ally for self-betterment and staying switched on to the world around you.

Embrace the Present

Stepping Out of the Nostalgia Trap

We all love a trip down memory lane, but it’s not so great when it keeps us from enjoying the now.

Next time you’re scrolling through old pics and posts, think about why you’re looking back. Is it making you feel good, or is it just keeping you stuck?

To really live in the moment, it’s all about choosing to appreciate where you are right now. That means shifting your focus from yesterday’s news to today’s adventures and what’s around the corner. Rather than getting hooked on the past, why not celebrate where you’re at and the simple stuff that makes today great?

Share your wins, soak up the now, and connect with others authentically. Moving from being a spectator of your past to playing a starring role in your own story is key to enjoying the present and practicing mindfulness.

Building a Thoughtful Online Space

Ready to make your time online really count?

Start by curating your feed to reflect what you love and believe right now. Cut ties with accounts that don’t jive with your goals, and tune into those that give you a positive boost. Aim to bring full awareness to every like, comment, and share.

This might mean setting aside specific times to check your feeds or making the choice to interact with purpose, not just out of habit. And how about turning off those endless notifications?

It’s your call when to dive into the digital world, not your phone’s. By crafting your own online spot with care, you not only keep your headspace clear, but also create an environment that sparks growth and good vibes.

Being fully present with the content you engage with and the conversations you have makes every moment online matter.

How to Make Social Media Mindful and Meaningful: A Summary

Reclaim Your Time:

Acknowledge the extensive average of 2 hours and 24 minutes spent daily on social media.
Recognize that time on social media can be used for personal growth and connections.
Before using social media, evaluate whether it aligns with your personal growth and well-being goals.

Making Social Media Intentional:

Pause and consider your purpose before using social media—whether for connection, inspiration, or learning.
Approach social media with intention, using it as a tool for self-improvement.

Embrace the Present:

Avoid dwelling on the past by focusing on the current moment and celebrating today’s achievements.
Share your current experiences and victories, enhancing mindfulness.

Building a Thoughtful Online Space:

Curate your social media feed to reflect your current interests and align with your aspirations.
Engage with content and people mindfully, making every online interaction intentional.
Limit distractions by controlling notification settings and choosing specific times for social media usage.

By implementing these strategies, you can transform your social media experience from a passive pastime into a valuable tool for present awareness and personal development.

How are you using your time with social media?

Just a thought,

What Would Yours Say?

On November 16, 2020, Radio France International made a blunder that made people laugh, yet they questioned why such a mistake would occur. The mistake also got people thinking, “I wonder what mine would say?”

Someone made a mistake and posted close to 100 obituaries on the Radio France International website. It does not sound like a mistake until you know those people were not dead. The obituaries included people such as Clint Eastwood, soccer legend Pele, and even Queen Elizabeth.

Within a few hours, readers let the website know of the error and the pre-written obituaries were taken down. Later, an apology note was posted to help clear up the error.

To think that someone is writing obituaries before a person passes away might sound odd, or even morbid, but it happens each day. Each of us are writing our own obituary as we live each day. Our lives are in constant motion and people will remember our lives, no matter what the written words say.

This mistake on the Radio France International website should serve as a remind that we are writing our obituaries as we live, but also, our death in this life is certain. So, here are a few questions to think about…

What would your obituary say?
How do you want to be remembered by your family?
How do you want to be remembered by your friends?
How do you want to be remembered by those who read your obituary?

But most important, no matter who remembers you, will they remember you as a shining light for Christ? Will they remember you as a Christian?

Just some thoughts,

The Power of Leading by Example – The Power of One Series #10

Leadership. It is a word often used when a situation needs someone to stand up and take control. Or it is used when a problem has developed, and someone is needed to make a difference.

Leading by example is one of the largest areas of contribution one can make to others, their church, their community, their workplace, and their family. Someone needs to take the lead.

Will Rogers is noted as saying, “We can’t all be heroes, because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by.” While it may seem that way many times, that fact is we are all leaders in one extent or another. You may lead your family, lead a group activity, or lead a team at work, but you are a leader. You might lead the way in innovation, or in teaching new generations the cultures of the past, but you are a leader.

The most significant influence you have as a leader is the example you set for others. Remember, people are watching you. People will pay less attention to what you say, and more attention to what you do. Your example in actions will be the biggest influence you will have on them.

While words are important, it is the action that backs up those words and shows the true cahracter of an individual.

Consider for a moment your experience at school or work; who were the most influential teachers and bosses in your past?

Some of your teachers and bosses were a big influence by showing you what not to be like as a leader. However, the ones that made the most significant impact on you were likely the teachers and managers who brought out the best in you and taught you through their example.

What are some character traits of a great leader?

Is a great leader compassionate?
Is a great leader ethical?
Is a great leader honest?
Is a great leader dedicated?
Is a great leader fair to others?

What character traits would make up a great leader? Have you learned about these traits from great leaders in your past?

Another area of great leaders is the skills the possess. They do not have to be a jack-of-all-trades, but do they have skills necessary to assist others?

What skills can great leaders teach through their example?

Does a great leader have tactical skills? (Skills in communication and manners)
Does a great leader have the skill of empowerment to assist others?
Does a great leader have a mastery of a craft?

Based on your experience, what are some skills a leader should possess? You will find that some areas of leadership need different skills that others.

Remember, leaders lead through their example; this is where the distinction is made between the good and the great. The actions of a leader make a difference to his influence and his leadership abilities.

How do great leaders lead through their example?
Does a great leader model appropriate behavior?
Does a great leader teach complex concepts in understandable ways?
Do great leaders walk the walk as they talk the talk?
Does a great leader practice self-sacrifice for the betterment of the group?
Does a great leader champion their cause?

Through your reflection on what makes great leaders, you must remember that your example has power to shape whatever situation.

You can influence others in ways you may never imagine. Through your example you will help build someone’s character, or teach them a skill, and even encourage their self-worth just by doing what you do best, being a proper example.

Something to always keep in mind is that you are never unobserved. Others are always responding to your presence.

Remember to do your best from a place of integrity and think about your influence wherever you are. Do what you can to be mindful of the fact that someone, somewhere, is being influenced by your behavior. If even in the smallest of ways, your existence is making a meaningful impact on the world.

Whether you are the leader of a company, a leader in your church, or the leader of your home, you are a leader with influence wherever you go.

Be a good example to those looking to you and walk with confidence knowing that you are affecting others as they watch you.

Just some thoughts,

Making a Difference to Others Benefits You – The Power of One Series #9

As we have spoken about already, you must remember that making a difference in the lives of others has a benefit for you as well. You will find yourself in a different place because of your influence on others.

Draw this in your mind for a moment: one person making an effort + multiple people receiving the benefits of that effort = countless people who are now in a better situation.

While you are motivated to help others for selfless reasons, you do find there are undeniable benefits that come from the effort. It is not selfish to appreciate or enjoy those benefits. They are rewards for doing a job well.

One benefit of helping others is it makes you feel happier and helps you live a fulfilled life. You can understand that because of your effort, someone somewhere is now better off.

When you think of motivation, be aware there are different types. Typically, people think of the big words of motivation, but when it is broken down, you are able to see its lasting effects.

Consider these types of motivation work in the lives of others. Each person might be looking for motivation to affect their life in different areas:

Those needed wanting positive reinforcement.
Those seeking to avoid negative consequences.
Those with a natural desire to be motivated (Also called “intrinsic motivation”)
There are other forces work together to motivate us to act.

No matter our reason for taking action, the benefits are rewarding and more impactful than you may realize. Many people see the action, then forget to see the results. It is not selfish to look for positive results in others because of your actions.

Here is a list of personal benefits you will find in your life when you help make a difference in the lives of others:

You are Creating and Building a Legacy – When you begin making a difference in the lives of others, it often leads creating a legacy. Others will remember who you are and what you did for them or someone they know because you took actions for the greater good. You will find that pouring yourself into something bigger than you can make an impact for generations – this is creating a legacy.

You are Giving Back – Sometimes making a difference comes from giving back to others when you have realized your blessings. Giving back provides healing to your life and to the lives of others. You will also find satisfaction because you have been able to bless others. This healing and satisfaction come from paying forward what you have gained in your lifetime.

You are Restoring Your Faith – When you have lost something precious, it feels good to regain your faith in God, humanity, or your community. When you begin making a difference, you see the good in others and it begins a process of restoring your faith. When your faith is restored, you begin seeing others in a different light and you notice a different side the first perceived.

You Begin Reducing Depression – Various forms of depression are rampant in the world, especially in the past year. When you are suffering, it helps to refocus your energy to somewhere other than yourself. When you refocus your energy, you find your suffering slowly easing. You find more energy because you see the difference you are making in others. Your efforts to assist others, changes you.

You Might Honor Someone – You might make a change in others because someone made a difference in yours. You can honor someone by making a difference just as they did. In doing so, you also continue their legacy and their memory.

You Create Future Opportunities – Your actions have a unique way of creating future opportunities for you to make a difference. When your actions take root, it is like planting a seed and watching it grow. As that seed grows, more opportunities will be present.

When you intentionally choose to make a difference in the lives of others, it becomes a winning situation for everyone involved. The win might not be immediately known, but it will be a worthwhile effort.

Remember, those who receive support from others are blessed, just as those who step out and make a difference.

Be assured that your efforts to serve others will come to result in significant personal benefit.

Realize the power of one.

Just some thoughts,

The Compound Effect – The Power of One Series #8

Have you ever heard of the “compound effect?”

This effect has been around for decades and is misunderstood by many. However, when it is understood, it is power.

So, let’s dive into the theory behind the compound effect and see how it can help you realize the power of one.

First, let’s begin with a question: Did you know that investing a small amount of money in the bank at a young age could make you a millionaire by middle age?

If you didn’t, then you need to know more about the compounding effect. Through the power of compounding interest, your initial investment can eventually give you a return that far exceeds what you first put into it. The initial investment does not have to be large.

Did you know that making a difference is the same?

Even though your contributions might be small and consistent, they have a compounding effect that surpasses your initial effort to make a lasting and meaningful impact.

Let’s look at some people who took a step in faith and in service to others to create a legacy that we enjoy today:

Eunice Kennedy Shriver was the founder of the Special Olympics. It began in 1962 as a backyard summer camp for people with intellectual disabilities. Now, that backyard summer camp is a global movement. Eunice Shriver’s small contribution compounded over time to surpass her expectations and even her lifetime. Today, the foundation is over fifty years old and has touched the lives of thousands and thousands over multiple generations.

Dr. Gory Klatt wanted to raise awareness and funds for a local cancer charity. So, in 1985, he walked a track for 24 hours continuously. He raised over $27,000.00 and the awareness of the need for cancer support. Since Dr. Klatt’s initial fundraiser, Relay for Life has become the largest fundraising event for cancer in the world. Currently, over 4 million people in 20 countries celebrate Relay for Life.

At some point, two people who had a passion for life and wanted to assist others, acted in a tiny way and their actions sparked interest and support with others. Their actions compounded so much that foundations were born. These foundations have employed people, served people, and constantly fill a need throughout the world.

Isn’t that amazing?

How about a few more people to consider?

Ever heard of Ray Kroc? Though he wasn’t the founder of McDonald’s, he brought the genius to the table that catapulted that small hamburger stand into a franchise that has served billions and billions since the 1950s. The name, “McDonalds,” is known in all parts of the world.

Or how about Colonel Sanders? He founded Kentucky Fried Chicken with one recipe and changed the industry. The hard work of that one man with his one recipe grew exponentially (the compound effect) until the KFC brand was known worldwide as “finger-lickin’ good.”

As you can see, small, consistent actions matter. Those consistent actions will grow benefits to reach to the ages.

Now that you understand a little about the compound effect, what actions will you begin today?

Just some thoughts,

Looking Back on Your Influence – The Power of One Series #7

Have you ever attended a retirement dinner?

Have you ever attended a gathering honoring someone?

Have you ever attended a funeral?

Whether it was a retirement celebration, a dinner honoring a person, or even a funeral, those events had speeches given by people who were grateful for the influence of the individual.

With retirement celebrations, the retiree gets to hear their accolades and the influence that they had on those around them. When you are at a dinner honoring someone, they get to hear from people who they had a lasting impact on in various areas of life. With the deceased, there is hope we can realize the stories of gratitude despite the separation of death.

When you look back on someone’s life you can see all the things they have done and then the influence they have had on many lives.

If you were to look back on your life, who would you say you have influenced?

Have you ever been told about the impact you had on someone else? Have you kept a record of the times you’ve volunteered, or actively tried to make a change – even in a small way?

I would imagine you have had a larger influence than you realize. Take a moment and ask yourself a few questions to see what type of impact you might have made:

Do people refer to you as an excellent example of individual traits and values?
Has a group has ever honored you for your contributions?
Have you been featured in a newspaper or magazine?
Have you ever made employee of the month?
Have you ever been interviewed about your work or your ministry?
Have you volunteered for your church?
Who have you shared your knowledge of a skill or trade to help them improve?
Who have you mentored?
Have you ever received a personalized “thank you” for something you did for someone?
Have you written a blog post, book, or other work that someone told you “changed their life”?
Have you donated your time or resources to an organization or a cause?

After you answer these questions, I would imagine you can think of times you’ve made a difference.

I would encourage you to make a list of the times you can recall and reflect on how it felt to be an influence. Consider those people you’ve affected and how they have benefited from your influence. These might be people that you never considered the influence you had on them, but you did. Even if you initially had no intention of making a difference, the chances are that you did, and it should encourage you.

Before we close, understand this point: you don’t have to wait until you retire, or honored by others, or die to know you’ve affected people around you. Realize your influence now.

Each of us has influence over others. We have even influenced those we may not realize. Consider how you have influenced others and decide to continue to be a positive influence in the future.

Just some thoughts,

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