Developmental Milestones Mean Raising Kids Right is Important!

Developmental milestones are truly the gauge for whether or not children turn out a certain way. With each milestone, children change, they grow mentally and emotionally, but they also grow physically. All of these aspects of a child's life mean they need to work well together, and when they do, they turn out just as you had hoped.

Self confidence is a big part of this, and as a child learns how to communicate in their own way, walk, talk, and more, they need to know that they are doing okay and that they are well on their way. So, what does this have to do with raising a better human being?

Children need to learn as they get older, that what they are doing or not doing is okay. Children learn boundaries, and they learn everything from their parents. So, if you don't teach them boundaries on what they should think and feel about themselves, how will they know what is right and what is wrong?

Why Developmental Milestones Matter 

If you have never studied developmental milestones of life and how they work, now is as good a time as any to study them, and learn as much as you can. Children learn how to be more confident once they take a step, or even when they start to crawl. 

When you finally crawled, didn't your parents clap? When you took your first steps, didn't they clap and continue to encourage you? Children that lack this in life don't seem to move as fast as everyone else, but they can still encounter men and women along the way that will encourage them and teach them how to advance in life. 

If you are an adult, have you considered  the following:

1. Fostering 
2. Adopting 
3. Becoming a big brother or sister to children or teens in your neighborhood
4. Teaching others how to read 

There are so many ways in which you can help others, and if you reach out to someone to help them and teach them WHY they matter, and why their opinion means more than what others tell you, then they will have better self-esteem. 

What if you had the courage to make a commitment to helping change someone's life for the better? Could you do it? Better yet, would you do it? 

Finding Happiness in Your Own Developmental Milestones

Have you ever read some quotes about happiness that made you realize just how awesome you are all on your own? If you grew up not understanding how you fit into this world, guess what; this is just one of many more developmental milestones. 

You can read all of the books out there on how to feel better about you, and you can get words of wisdom from those around you and it still won't change who you are. Words of encouragement are always nice too, but you still decide whether or not you can create the life you want. 

It's wonderful to have the heart of a child, but it's best not to always have the mind of one! Each of us have our own way, our own life, passions and goals. What will you do with your life? 

If you would like to learn more about how we encourage teenagers, adults, and more in their life "developmental milestones", then please visit www.courageouslife.com. 

Quotes About Happiness-Can Reading Them Make it All Better?

Quotes about happiness are great to read, but do you really believe in what you are reading? It has been said that happiness is an inside job, and no doubt that is true. You've heard us say it before, and if you know anything about our organization, we are here for you to help you with:

1. Self confidence
2. Self esteem 
3. Building character 
4. Developing moral and spiritual courage 

While these are all great topics, there still isn't good information to go around to help you if you have already decided that you need something to make you happy. So, what does it take to make you happy?

Do you believe that it is possible for you to be happy all on your own? If you need some quotes about happiness, we have some that we would love to share with you, but remember, it's truly an inside job.

Getting Answers from Quotes About Happiness 

See this quote above? Do you believe it? Do you realize that the key to your happiness is to find your own way? Better yet, it's about doing things God's way, and realizing that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. 

What does this mean? It means, that you can't rely on someone else to teach you how to be more confident, and you can't rely on getting someone else to make you smile. Here are a few quotes about happiness, just like the one above that re-iterate this to you. 

Here is what some successful people believe to be true about happiness: 

"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." -Dalai Lama 

I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel like being around certain people makes me feel pretty happy or very unhappy. Do you agree? Remember, that at the end of the day you alone are responsible for your happiness. Even if you are in a room full of unhappy people, remember ,it's up to you to be happy. 

As a child growing up, you reached several developmental milestones, and even as a baby, you only cared about what made you happy, right? If you fell down, you got back up, and if others were making faces at you, you still chuckled, right? 

It has been said that children are the best salespeople, and it's true. These are words of wisdom for you friend. To focus on being happy, regardless of what is going on around you. This is NEVER easy, I know this all too well. 

More Quotes About Happiness in God 

Have you ever heard someone say that God can make people happy? Okay, so if I say this, don't be quick to judge; even God can't make you happy, and he won't force you to be happy. 

See, God is all about free will, and He loves to give His children free gifts. Namely, the one most important of all is salvation, but He will give wisdom freely and liberally too. God wants only the best for you, and won't leave any stone unturned. 

Why should you? Here are some quotes about happiness I found and how they relate to God our Savior. 

"I know God won't give me anything I can't handle. I just wish he didn't trust me so much.” 
-Mother Theresa 

Hmm, how do you feel abuot that one folks? Commitment to your own happiness is key, and yes God will give you no more than you can handle. Have you ever questioned this? Have you ever thought that you must be destined for greatness if He gave you so much to work with?

The only words of encouragement I could give you are that happiness is an inside job, but until you can be consistent on your own, there are plenty of people around you to help you get there. You have friends and family that love you, and if you struggle with family, ask God to bring people to you in your church that you can lean on and ask for help and guidance. 

You could sit and read inspirational quotes all day, but will that change your life? Could you rely on funny movies to help you "Get Happy?" 

No! There isn't anything wrong with any of this, BUT, don't lose sight of the fact that happiness is an inside job. If you would like to read more quotes about happiness that we share, or you need some encouragement, just pay us a visit over at www.courageouslife.com today! 

Self Esteem-the Foundation for All Young People

Self esteem is no doubt the foundation for boys and girls, and it's no surprise that so many are struggling. Why? Parents today aren't building up their children's confidence enough, and others are poking holes in it, easily and often.

If hormonal changes and peer pressure weren't enough, how about the fact that it takes mom and dad to help their children to feel good about themselves?

Have you ever heard that children could do without this? Don't you think that if your opinon of yourself were better, that you would be able to do more, be more, and handle more of life just fine?

This is why we have been creating a movement to teach children and adults more about self esteem, how to be more confident, and how to grow strong in life and in spirit. Keep reading to learn more about what this could do to change the life of your child, or just for you personally.

The Beginning of Self Esteem

Early in life, you learn that you are special, loved, and that no one means as much as you do to your mom and dad. What happens after that is horrific in the mind of a child. What happens when they experience someone else being number one, or winning the award that they didn't win? How do you handle this?

I was reading some quotes about happiness the other day, and what I read was so true. Most of the quotes were from individuals that were actors, writers, celebrities, and more. The quotes were all defending that yes, happiness is in fact an inside job, so no, it doesn't come from the outside fix, EVER.

Developmental milestones are critical, and that means that every stage of a child's life needs to experience a sense of accomplishment. Do you love them where they are? For example, if your 15 year old goes out and does something wrong, can you approach that the same way you would with a 6 year old?

Of course not. That doesn't work. This is why you absolutely MUST focus on your commitment to raising them with a strong mind, heart, and emotions. Our children are growing up unbalanced, giving most of their efforts in life to one side of their lives. Can this be prevented? Of course it can!

Words of Wisdom on Self Esteem 

Have you been searching for words of wisdom from those you trust with every shred of hope mustered up you can find? Chances are you have, but you may have been looking in the wrong place. God's Word says that there is safety in the multitude of counselors, and it's true.

You can find words of encouragement just about anywhere if you look, but will they teach you something? Is it possible that you can find what you need when you turn to your trusted family members and friends? Is there hope in other people?

Don't teach your children that other people solve problems, teach them that healthy solutions and answers all come from God Himself, and that we are NEVER far from God's love, EVER. If we believe that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and we are taught that from the time we are born, how could we be amiss?

Here are a few inspirational quotes that will shed some insight into this for you.

"Ever tried, ever failed, no matter, try again, fail again, fail better" - Samuel Beckett

"Stop thinking of what could go wrong, and start thinking of what could go right"

Thinking into the future, and thinking only of God's best is what gets us to a better and safer place. Now, how do you view your self esteem?

Inspirational Bible Verses

Inspirational Bible verses are great when you need a pick me up, and they are most certainly great when you are hurting inside. There is nothing more difficult than not having something to turn to when you need an encouraging word.

This is why God's Word is a constant, and why so many look to it daily for help and insight for living.

Have you been in need of God's touch, but you felt that you were too far from Him? Have you desired too hear from God, but you felt that you were too far away?

If you are in need of some inspirational Bible verses, and you have been having trouble finding them, keep reading.

We wanted to share some of our favorites with you, so that you wouldn't have to go very far! Are you ready to be inspired by God himself?

Check Out These Inspirational Bible Verses 

Here are some inspirational Bible verses just for you!

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. -Jeremiah 29:11
One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. -Psalm 27:4
Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him. -Psalm 34:8
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. -Proverbs 17:17
but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.- Isaiah 40:31
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. -John 15:13
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. -Romans 8:28
What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? -Romans 8:31

A pretty good start for the day? We think so! 

More Inspirational Bible Verses for You! 

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,  neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. -Romans 8:38-39
Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. -I Corinthians 13:12
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. -2 Corinthians 4:16-18
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ  and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ--the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. -Philippians 3:7-9
so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,  may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,  and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.  Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,  to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. -Ephesians 3:17-21

I don't know that there is anything more inspirational than God's Word do you? Whether you are hurting, feeling good or just need answers, check back often to see what we have to share. There are new stories and inspiration each day. 

To learn more about our reason behind sharing these inspirational Bible verses, pay us a visit at www.courageouslife.com. 

Inspirational Words for Any Day of the Week

Inspirational words are often needed when tough times ensue. I know this all too well. In fact, I have to tell you that recently, I've been looking for them a lot. I've been looking for them for me, but for others too. 

Have you ever found yourself looking for words of encouragement during a difficult time? Have you ever wondered where you could find words of hope and inspiration?

Now you can find them here, just when you thought you didn't have more sources to use or to find something you could share, you found out you were incorrect!

So, here we are providing you some inspirational words for you and for you to share with others, so that you can spread hope and joy to others.

Inspirational Words for You 

Here are some wonderful inspirational words we found to share with you, and they are from folks that come from all different walks of life. 

You have to take what people think is wrong or even foolish and make the breakthroughs of tomorrow. – John Kheir, MD -
Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm. - Winston Churchill -
We are kept from our goal, not by obstacles but by a clear path to a lesser goal. - Robert Brault

There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again. - Elizabeth Lawrence -
A community is like a ship; everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm. - Henrik Ibsen -
An army of lions commanded by a deer will never be an army of lions. - Napoleon Bonaparte -
If you feel that you are indispensable, put your fingers in a glass of water, withdraw it, and note the hole you have left. - Author unknown -
Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success. - Dale Carnegie -
Experience is pure gold. Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. - Ann Landers -

These quotes come to you straight from some folks that have had tremendous success in their lives, and others that are merely hard workers, and inspirational speakers. No matter where you come from, you have something to offer for sure.

Here are some more quotes that will help lift you to another level, no matter where you are, and no matter what you are doing.

More Inspirational Words to Live By 

Here are some more inspirational words for your spirit as well. 

Your talent is God's gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God. - Leo Buscaglia -
The issue is now clear. It is between light and darkness and everyone must choose his side. - G. K. Chesterton -
What is there beyond knowing that keeps
calling to me? I can't
turn in any direction
but it's there. I don't mean
the leaves' grip and shine or even the thrush's
silk song, but the far-off
fires, for example,
of the stars, heaven's slowly turning
theater of light, or the wind
playful with its breath;
or time that's always rushing forward,
or standing still
in the same — what shall I say –
moment.

What I know
I could put into a pack
as if it were bread and cheese, and carry it
on one shoulder,
important and honorable, but so small!
While everything else continues, unexplained
and unexplainable.
….mostly I just stand in the dark field,
in the middle of the world, breathing in and out…

- Mary Oliver from "What is there beyond knowing" -

Now that you have some encouraging words, will you share these with others? Will you make an effort to share the good you find with others?

If you would like to learn more about our motive for "inspirational words" then visit us at www.courageouslife.com.

Words of Wisdom for Business Owners

As a business person, I love sharing words of wisdom with other business owners, employees, and customers. Why? Because they are all people. We are all people. None of us is worth more than the other, we are all in this together.

The most disturbing part of this is that I see that we have a tendency to separate people by class, race, creed, religion, and what they wear. What good does that do? It really doesn't do anything good or postive in any sense.

Since when do we have any right to treat people differently because we own a business or think we are someone special? We are here to serve people aren't we? Better yet, what would you say if I told you that we are here to serve those that serve others?

If you want to hear some words of wisdom, keep reading.

Words of Wisdom from Leaders 

Have you ever read this quote from Albert Schweitzer? Good words of wisdom! Take a look: 

I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the onlyones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and foundhow to serve. -Albert Schweitzer

 He is right. His words were true then and they are still true today. I hear so many people running around all of the time talking about how they aren't sure of their purpose yet that is the craziest thing I've ever heard in my life.

I don't know that I could ever NOT think about what my destiny is, but happiness is something we all want right? Schweitzer knew what he was talking about when he made that statement above. In fact, if you have never heard of Simon Sinek, then you should get to know him.

Simply go to YouTube and type in Simon Sinek, and what you hear will amaze you, stun you, but above all you will be smiling at the end of it all as you make a discovery. That discovery is that we are all people, we all want the same things, and we should all treat people like people.

When was the last time you paid someone a compliment? When was the last time you lived life full out each day as if nothing else mattered? Think about it.

Words of Wisdom for Followers 

Are you aware that not everyone was intended to be a leader? Some of you are made to not only follow, but you could very well be the helper that comes alongside and makes a huge difference in the lives of others.

What would you rather be? A leader or a follower? What about a person that serves others? That way, you don't have to put limits on yourself, label yourself, or worry about anything else. Right? Just be the best you that you can be.

I hope that these words of wisdom have stirred you to do something more in life, and that you have now realized  it's all about people, and not you. Live courageously!