Young NM Powrd

Depending on your age, you may or may not have heard the saying,'a penny for your thoughts.' Basically, it's a statement that's asking a question, "what are you thinking about?" We have so many thoughts during the average day, most of the time we barely recognize what is going on and rarely do we slow down or stop for self-reflection. But have you ever asked that question of yourself - a penny for your own thoughts? Have you ever taken time to not only evaluate your thoughts, but attempt to become the master of your thought life? Well, getting ahold of your thoughts takes practice - but it's essential for happy and healthy living.

I'm no Jennifer Hudson, but I can hold a tune. When my mother would hear me sing as a child, she was sure I shouldn't quit my day job. But whether through nature or nurture, I, alas found my voice. However, finding your voice in life can be even more challenging. And when it comes to caring for ourselves, sometimes our inner voices can seem really small, like a whisper, or even silent. But part of the self-care journey involves advocating for yourself. There will be bumps, tears, and slip ups along the way; but that's ok, just stay on the path - you'll be singing in no time!

Whatever the reasons, sometimes we may not always take the best care of ourselves. But life can be hard, really hard sometimes, even as a young person. You may have heard the saying, "age ain't nothing but a number." Well, stress has all our numbers! In this life, we all go through ups and downs. Right now, you might feel like stress is knocking on your door or trying to tear your house down! On the other hand, maybe you are skipping over rainbows. Whatever your current situation, learning how to prioritize your well-being (in good and bad times) is essential to your health and happiness! And that means taking care of Y-O-U!

During these past few years I often think back to how it was in 2018 - yes, even before 2019, the year some of us heard something about some disease that was affecting people somewhere in another part of the world. 2018 seems like such a long time ago. Even 2020 seems like the distant past. Yet here we are in 2022, and COVID is still upon us and anxiety is still in the air, causing stress for so many, including the youth. Yes, these are unprecedented times (something you've probably heard over and over). But if there's one good thing that this pandemic has brought to the forefront it is the attention to mental health; and that taking steps to care for our mental health is crucial and necessary for everyone, young people included.

Schools are spaces where learning takes place - hopefully. Teachers provide instruction and care to their students, and students engage in the process of learning by listening, studying, and participating. And parents and administrators give support to students through reinforcement and providing structure. Then there is another part of what goes on in schools that involves the many inherent relationships that are a part of the school dynamic. Specifically, when it comes to student peer relationships, they can often be challenging to navigate on a good day. But when you add in the effects of a pandemic, a certain level of drama is to be expected. Maybe you've asked the question, "what's with all the drama?" Well, if you can relate, just know you are not alone.

When we think of people who are making an impact in the world our minds often go to those we may see on TV, in the news - like a LeBron James or a Greta Thunberg. And while they, and many other visible individuals are doing great work, there are unseen change makers that go about their lives everyday making a difference in profound ways in their circles of influence. Are you one of those people making an impact? If not, get ready!

Wow! The summer flew by so fast! Well, now that you are back in school, I hope you are getting into the swing of things. But this is no ordinary school year (like the two that came before it), most likely you are back in your school building meeting face-to-face with your teachers and peers. After everything we have all been through these last 16 months or so - quarantines, mask- wearing, separation from friends and loved ones, and even deaths - being back in school is a major transition, one that may cause some to feel anxious. But although anxiety may be in the air, you have the power to bring peace to your mind and body and enjoy everything good this school year has to offer!

Hopefully you are enjoying your break from school, as summer is in full swing! For many school-aged children in the US there is a little over a month (or less - depending on where you live) left until vacation is over. Now is the time to keep cool with ice cream cones, dips in the pool, and trips to the beach. It's also time for something else that's cool - learning! That's right - school may be out, but learning is always in!

Life has so many things to teach us, especially for those of us who are open to learn. It is true that we don't enter this world with a manual to guide us through our day-to-day existence. And when we are young it may seem as if we have an eternity to discover what we need to know. Well, if you are a young person, you may have discovered that trust is an area where having a manual might be handy. But trust is similar to other areas in life that aren't nearly wrapped with a bow on top. However, getting a better understanding of your role in the 'circle of trust' is one of the keys to being content in your decisions and having better relationships.

The things that young people think are important don't always rate with adults. Sometimes it seems as if older people have forgotten what it was like to be younger - back when wanting to be a part of a certain group, or sporting the latest in-style brands was a must. As a young person, uncovering your values is key to helping you move forward in life. Although many things you deem important will often change over time, gaining insight in this area will help you to chart a successful path.

When you're young, getting to the age where you are a full-fledged rent-paying, full-time job-having, bill-paying adult may seem far into the future. For some, it cannot come fast enough, for others, staying a kid is a welcome state. But we all have to grow up (our at least get older) and choosing who we want to become as an adult is within our power. And although we will make mistakes no matter what stage of life we are in, gaining self-awareness can help shape the path towards successful adulthood.

Join Young NM Powrd for this special guest interview with Devin Davis. Listen as he shares about his passion, his plan, his persistence, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We'll also hear about the deep commitment he has to his faith that sustains him and keeps him moving forward in life! Let's dive in!

Some people agree with the phrase that says, 'age is just a number.' When it comes to growing up, sometimes that is true. The hallmarks of whether someone is a healthy adult are characterized more by their mindset and behavior than the number of birthdays they have had. Growing up can be hard, scary even - and making mistakes, learning, and moving on are a part of the process. But you can make choices that propel you forward in life. Let's learn together!

If you are a human living on planet Earth you probably can recall at least one time when you had a conversation with someone, and they told you - "just let it go." Maybe it was a talk you had with a parent or a coach, or perhaps it was a teacher or a best friend; and as you were there listening to their advice you may have thought to yourself, "yeah, but how?" Letting go is not always easy - it can be uncomfortable, scary, and frustrating. But learning how to let go is a valuable skill to have. Wanna find out more? Let's learn together.

Failing can make us feel inadequate, incompetent, rejected, even hopeless. Yet, failure is a part of learning. And one of the most important things we can learn when we go through life's disappointments is that we must never give up. However, never giving up may mean changing your perspective. Are you ready?

I don't know where the phrase, 'don't believe everything you think' comes from, but it is true that we must evaluate the thoughts that come into our minds. Although we don't have control over thoughts that pop into our head, we can control whether they become a part of our belief system, and we are responsible for the actions we take based on our thoughts. And sometime the key to living an empowered life involves learning to check our thoughts at the door.

There are tons of books, videos, and social media personalities claiming to have the key to your happiness. So, if you're looking for advice about how to live a better life, there is a lot of it out there. But if you have listened to this podcast, you know it's all about EMPOWERMENT! That means the key to your happiness is YOU! Whether or not you feel strong right now, there are steps you can take to empower your life and get closer to not only being satisfied, but to experience real joy!

Most of us have heard the saying, 'the children are the future' or perhaps you're familiar with the adage, 'the future is now. ' Well, there is some truth to both of those statements, especially when it comes to being a young person, having a vision for your life, and taking steps towards making your dreams reality. In today's episode, you will meet a young lady who embodies these sentiments through her passion for life. So, get ready to listen, learn, and enjoy!

Ok, so it's not 'all about perspective' - but the way you view things is pretty important. It's not always easy to look at the 'bright side" or pause and reflect on your situation. But, many times, in doing so you may find a few keys to becoming the best version of yourself. The journey of becoming is not over, but maybe it's time to unpack and take a look at some of your perspectives.

Every day we do and say things that shape our destiny. Sometimes we need to look in the mirror and realize that we must hold ourselves accountable for making change in our lives. And other times we may need to look at a map and see if we're going down the right road. It has been said that life is a journey and we are all progressing from one stage to another. When you look in the mirror or the path you've chosen, the question is, 'who are you becoming?'

If we want a new look, we might cut our hair. Or if we're tired of staring at the same four walls, we might rearrange our room. But what about our attitudes, our perspectives, or our way of doing things? Well, sometimes they can use a change as well. And when it comes to being happy with your life, maybe you need to be the change.

It is true that sometimes life can break us down to the point where we feel unworthy. Whether through your experiences, what others say to you, or what you say to yourself; you can forget this most essential thing - you are important. You matter and you are more valuable than you know.

Life can be challenging. And it can be easy to lose yourself in the process of living. But hang in there - your life matters! Sometimes it's just recognizing that you need to put your mask on first so that you can be your best self!

What do you believe about yourself? Hopefully it's all good stuff! Sometimes, though, what we believe can keep us stuck, and it's hard to get out of the cycle of doubt. But you have the power to smash limiting beliefs. It's all in the process. Time to rock your life!

We are all 'in process.' Day by day we are becoming better versions of our true selves. Let's go deeper into your work to discover the value your process can bring to your life. Want to learn more? Well, come on...this is for you!

It's time to step out of the shadows. You are valuable and it's time to shine. It might be a little scary but let's take the first step. I can't wait to see what you have to share. Are you ready? Let's go!

Where do you want to go in life? Do you know that music can be a tool to spark your dreams? Get ready...it's time to create your vision and move towards it!

Being gentler with the words you say to yourself involves becoming more aware of your true self. Take some time to discover the real you as you start to listen for your new name!

Often as young people (and adults) we say things to ourselves that are not kind. Start squashing the lies your 'inner critic' tells you and begin speaking more positive words about yourself.

Today's episode is an introduction to the podcast and is focused on empowerment. Get inspired and start on the path to living your best life as a teen!

Check out this trailer for a new podcast focused on encouraging teens. It is short and filled with useful info to help young people live their best lives.