productive Archives - The Virtuous Creative

Productivity/ May 21, 2023June 19, 2024

Faith-Fueled Habits for Christian Entrepreneurs

Daily habits are an absolute non-negotiable when it comes to shaping your life and business.

As I inch closer to celebrating four years in my copywriting and brand storytelling business, I can’t help but think about the role habits have played in my journey. And so, I thought about digging into some daily habits that will not only deepen your spiritual walk but also elevate your entrepreneurial dreams in the most glorious way. So, let’s jump in!

Faith-fueled actions can lead to extraordinary results. Today, let’s focus on one actionable step we can take towards our creative goals and commit it to prayer.

One of my favorite ways to start the day is by counting my blessings and expressing gratitude to God for His infinite goodness. Over the years, I’ve developed a morning routine that centers around appreciation. As soon as I wake up, even before I’ve had my first sip of coffee, I take a few quiet moments to reflect on the abundance that surrounds me. It’s an uplifting way to recognize the grace and favor that permeates my life.

I also find that journaling amplifies my sense of thankfulness. Writing down what I’m grateful for not only helps me remember God’s blessings but also makes me more aware of them in my day-to-day life. It’s like holding a magnifying glass up to the goodness of God. The more I express gratitude, the more I notice the small and big blessings that I might otherwise take for granted.

Along with this, I find solace in meditating on His promises. Whether it’s a verse from the Bible or a message I felt Him impress upon my heart, these reminders of His unwavering love and faithfulness serve as anchors for my soul, especially during challenging times.

This habit, inspired by Psalm 118:24, “This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it,” sets a positive tone for my day. By starting my mornings steeped in gratitude, I feel more grounded, optimistic, and ready to face whatever the day brings. After all, a heart full of thanksgiving is a wonderful platform for a day full of promise. I’ve also found that one of the most effective ways to ensure a productive day ahead is by planning it in advance.

About 30 minutes before I wrap up my workday, I take some time to plan for the next one. But this isn’t just about jotting down to-dos or penciling in meetings. It’s a thoughtful process that involves inviting God into my decisions and creative tasks.

Here’s what it typically looks like for me: I start by reflecting on my goals for the upcoming day. What tasks are most important? What deadlines are approaching? Where do I need to allocate most of my energy? Then, I take these considerations to God in prayer. I ask for His guidance and wisdom, trusting Him to lead me in making the most of my time and talents.

During these moments of prayerful planning, I often find clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. I’m reminded that even in the busiest of days, God is with me, guiding each step I take. Proverbs 16:3, which says, “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans,” has been a great source of comfort and encouragement in this respect.

Including prayer in my planning process does more than just organize my day; it infuses it with a spiritual perspective. As I align my tasks with my purpose and seek God’s guidance in my plans, I find that my workday becomes not just about getting things done, but about serving God and others through the work I do. This way, my planning becomes more than a routine—it becomes a spiritual discipline that strengthens my relationship with God and centers my work on Him.

Prayerful planning is an opportunity to lay your desires at God’s feet and invite Him to shape your path.

Now, in the midst of a busy entrepreneurial life, I’ve learned the importance of intentionally carving out time for spiritual nourishment. It’s not always easy, given the demands of running a business, but I firmly believe that tending to my soul is just as crucial—if not more so—as tending to my business.

For me, this daily nourishment takes a variety of forms. It involves diving deep into the Bible, savoring the wisdom and guidance found in its pages. I may study a specific book, focus on a particular verse, or simply read a passage and meditate on its meaning. I’ve found that immersing myself in God’s Word not only fuels my faith, but it also often offers insight and inspiration that I can apply in my business.

I also like to read different devotions that align with my current season in life or business. Then there are days when I choose to listen to uplifting podcasts or sermons. The wisdom, teachings, and testimonies shared in these can be incredibly inspiring and uplifting, reminding me of God’s presence and provision in my entrepreneurial journey.

As an entrepreneur, I appreciate the immense value of social media. It’s an incredible tool for connecting with potential clients, sharing my journey, and promoting. But like many powerful tools, it’s a double-edged sword. Without proper boundaries, it can easily consume too much time and energy, or even lead to unfavorable comparisons or negativity.

Over the years, I’ve learned to set healthy boundaries with my social media usage. For me, this starts with being intentional about when and how I use these platforms. Instead of allowing it to permeate every free moment, I decide on specific times to engage with social media and stick to them. This could mean setting aside an hour in the evening for updates and interactions, and then closing the apps for the rest of the night.

But it’s not just about limiting screen time; it’s also about cultivating a healthy mindset towards social media. This means focusing on purposeful interactions, seeking to inspire others with my posts.I also recommend that you guard your heart when navigating these digital spaces. It’s all too easy to fall into the comparison trap, especially when every post seems to highlight someone else’s success. Remind yourself that social media is often a highlight reel, and that everyone’s journey – including their challenges and success is unique.

So, I’ve got to admit that I’ve always been a big believer in the power of personal development. The journey towards growth and improvement, both personally and professionally, is a continuous one. One of the ways I invest in my personal development is by reading.

Whether it’s a book about entrepreneurship, a Christian-themed book, I constantly seek out resources that can broaden my perspective, improve my skills, or deepen my faith. I’ve found that reading not only fuels my knowledge but also sparks creativity, provides insight, and fosters empathy – all of which are invaluable in my work and life.

I also set aside quiet moments for reflection. This can be as simple as reviewing my day before bed, meditating on scripture, or journaling about my experiences and thoughts. These reflective moments offer me a chance to gain self-awareness, assess my growth, and align my actions with my values and goals.

The words of 2 Peter 3:18 inspire me in this journey: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” I take this to heart, striving each day to grow not just in my professional expertise, but also in my understanding and experience of God’s grace.

One thing I try to do is maintain a certain degree of flexibility in my schedule. This means recognizing that not everything will go according to plan and being willing to adapt when necessary. It also means allowing space for spontaneity, for those unexpected opportunities or moments of inspiration that don’t neatly fit into a predetermined schedule.

And most importantly, I’ve learned to prioritize rest. Contrary to what our always-on, hustle-centric culture might suggest, rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s an opportunity to recharge physically, mentally, and spiritually. It’s a time to step back, reflect, and gain fresh perspective. And it’s a way to honor our bodies and minds, acknowledging our human limitations and the need for balance.

Personally, I spent too much of my time in go-go mode and not resting as I should when I worked in TV news. My mind felt like it was always on. That was one of those things that I didn’t want to take into my life as an entrepreneur. I find great comfort and encouragement in Jesus’s words in Mark 6:31: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Jesus understood the importance of rest, both for Himself and His disciples. I tell people, if you think you can’t find moments of rest, then just think of Jesus taking a nap in the middle of the storm.

For me, it’s not enough to simply run a business; I strive to make it a vessel for spreading God’s love. I seek to weave His love and values into my services, and messaging. Whether it’s through infusing ethical practices into my operations or creating a work environment that fosters kindness and respect to my team members and clients, I want every aspect of my business to reflect God’s light. I see my business as a way for sharing His love with others, and it’s a privilege to use my entrepreneurial endeavors as a means of glorifying Him. Colossians 3:23 serves as my guiding principle, reminding me to work with all my heart as if I am working for the Lord Himself.

It’s so important for me to keep in mind that the resources entrusted to me are not solely for my benefit, but also for the advancement of God’s kingdom. I prioritize managing these resources wisely, making informed decisions that align with God’s principles. Effective budgeting, tracking expenses, and understanding the importance of saving and investing are integral parts of my business practices. Luke 16:10 serves as a constant reminder that faithfully managing the little entrusted to me opens doors for even greater opportunities.

Joy is a compass that guides my entrepreneurial journey. I make a conscious effort to maintain a positive mindset, celebrating both small and big achievements along the way. I find joy in the process itself, appreciating each step of the journey rather than solely focusing on the destination. When faced with challenges or doubts, I remind myself of the joy that comes from pursuing my God-given dreams. Nehemiah 8:10 inspires me to find strength and joy in the Lord, regardless of external circumstances. With joy as my compass, I can navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, spreading positivity and inspiring others to embrace joy in their own lives.

Faith-fueled habits aren’t just about productivity – they’re about nurturing our souls.

Hopefully, this is helpful for you. At the end of the day, daily habits truly have the power to shape your life and business.

Now, I want to hear from you. What daily habits have had the most significant impact on your life and business? How do you integrate spirituality into your entrepreneurial journey? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

Self-Care/ January 8, 2023January 8, 2023

Sow the Seeds of Success with More Fruits and Veggies for Productivity

We all know that feeling – it’s mid-afternoon, you’re feeling sluggish and unproductive, and you just can’t seem to get anything done. Sound familiar?

Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. But there’s an easy way to boost your energy and productivity that you might not have thought of – adding more fruits and vegetables to your routine!

First off, let’s talk about why fruits and vegetables are so good for you. They’re packed with nutrients that are essential for our bodies to function at their best. They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and loaded with vitamins and minerals that help us stay healthy and energized.

Now, as Christians it’s important to remember that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This means that we have a responsibility to take care of ourselves and nourish our bodies with the right foods.

In addition to the physical benefits of eating a healthy diet, there are also spiritual benefits. When we nourish our bodies with the right foods, we are better able to serve God and others to the best of our abilities. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, it says, “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” By taking care of ourselves through a healthy diet, we can better fulfill our purpose of glorifying God in all that we do.

But how do they help with energy and productivity, you might ask? It’s simple – fruits and vegetables provide the fuel our bodies need to perform at their best. They contain complex carbohydrates, which are a slow-burning source of energy that helps sustain us throughout the day. They also contain plenty of B-vitamins, which help our bodies convert food into energy.

Incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your routine can also help you feel more alert and focused. The nutrients found in these foods can help improve brain function, which can lead to better decision-making and problem-solving skills. Plus, the fiber in fruits and vegetables can help you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent those pesky mid-afternoon snack cravings that can distract you from your work.

Not to mention, eating a healthy diet can also benefit your overall well-being, which can in turn help you feel more motivated and productive. When you feel good physically, it can be easier to stay focused and on task. So, by adding more fruits and vegetables to your routine, you’ll not only be fueling your body with the nutrients it needs to perform at its best, but you’ll also be setting yourself up for success as a writer.

So, how can you add more fruits and vegetables to your routine? Here are a few simple tips:

Start your day off right with a healthy breakfast that includes a serving of fruit. Try adding a side of berries or apples as a side. My usual breakfast during the week consists of 2 eggs with spinach and cheese (yum!).

Keep a stash of healthy snacks on hand, like carrot sticks, apple slices, or a small serving of mixed berries. This way, you’ll have something healthy and energizing to munch on when you need a pick-me-up.

Incorporate more vegetables into your meals. Try adding a side of roasted vegetables to your lunch or dinner or throw some extra veggies into your pasta or stir-fries.

Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is key to maintaining energy levels, and adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to your water can help give it a little extra flavor.

As a writer, it’s important for me to have a clear mind and sharp focus in order to produce my best work. Fruits and veggies in particular can help me feel more alert and focused, which can be especially helpful when you’re facing a deadline or tackling a complex writing project.

Now, another thing I want to remember is prepping. Because let’s be real, things can get really busy during the week.

Here are a few tips for prepping fruits and vegetables:

Wash and chop your produce as soon as you get home from the store. This way, you’ll have it ready to go when you need it, whether it’s for a quick snack or a meal.
Roast a batch of vegetables on the weekend and store them in the fridge. You can then use them as a side dish or add them to salads and sandwiches throughout the week.
Keep frozen fruits and vegetables on hand. These can be just as nutritious as fresh produce and are often more convenient, as they don’t spoil as quickly.

So, there you have it! By adding more fruits and vegetables to your routine, you’ll be fueling your body with the nutrients it needs to stay energized and productive. So, go on and get your daily serving of fruits and vegetables – your body (and your business) will thank you!

Curious about what I’m learning every week on my creative journey as it relates to faith, self-care, and entrepreneurship?

Click here subscribe to my weekly newsletter, “Letters for the Virtuous Creative.”

Self-Care/ November 11, 2022November 25, 2022

5 Ways to Declutter Your Mind Today

Sometimes, life is just too busy. Maybe you find yourself frustrated when it comes to wondering how you can possibly get all the important stuff done. Sometimes I feel this way too, so you’re not alone. I get it! And your answer is pretty simple: Declutter your mind. In this blog post, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to declutter my mind. I’m confident that these tips will help you clear out the clutter and make room for more productive thoughts as well.

Have some quiet time alone

You can reduce stress and anxiety by taking time to unwind.

Pray – Prayer allows you to get closer to God and tap into clarity and discernment.

Take a walk – Get outside, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy nature.

Get enough sleep – It’s hard for you to think clearly when you’re tired or stressed, so make sure you get enough rest before tackling any big projects or stressful tasks.

Manage your time better

One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to declutter their minds is not managing their time properly.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed and overwhelmed, it’s easy to forget about your schedule or simply not have one at all—which means that a lot of the work you do will go unfinished.

If you want to organize your thoughts and clear out some brain space, make sure that you plan out what needs to be done each day as well as how much time each task should take.

Delegate and ask for help

Delegation is an important part of your decluttering process, but it can be difficult to know where to start.

The first step is asking for help from people who are good at what you need done. And by the way, don’t be afraid of being assertive when delegating tasks. Be sure to also follow up with those subordinates after completing those assignments so that everything goes smoothly!

It’s crucial that everyone involved has clear expectations about what needs to get done.

Set short-term goals

Setting goals can be a powerful way to get your mind working toward a clearer, more productive and happier state.

Setting goals helps you focus on what really matters in life, prioritize what’s most important to you and achieve more by having a clear outline of where you want to be. Short term goals are an excellent way of keeping your mind clutter free because they give you something that feels achievable in an otherwise overwhelming world.

Short term goals can be as simple as:

Reading 1 chapter per day from a book on decluttering your mind
Going for a walk every day (even if it’s only 15 minutes)
Progressing in a new skill once a week

Be kind to yourself

It is so easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to give yourself a break.

You can start by being kinder to yourself, whether it’s for a mistake you made or for something that didn’t go as planned. Giving yourself some time out of your day to do something you enjoy will help make everything else seem less overwhelming.

Be kind to others too! It can be easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes down to how much we have on our plates at any given time, but don’t compare yourself with other people and don’t get down on them when they’re struggling with their own problems or just having a rough day – we all need each other!

A decluttered mind is a productive mind

When your mind is decluttered:

You’ll be able to focus on what’s important, rather than worrying about things that don’t matter.

You will make better decisions, because your mind won’t be cluttered with unnecessary information that could cloud your judgment.

You will concentrate on tasks at hand instead of getting distracted by other things like social media.

The key to decluttering your mind is being aware that you can do it.
Danielle Delaney

You might feel like you’re drowning in a sea of thoughts and emotions, but the truth is that we all have the ability to clear out our minds if we try hard enough.

The first step in this process is recognizing that there is room for improvement, which can be done by creating space for yourself by setting aside time each day just for yourself or taking regular breaks throughout the day, so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Once you know there is something wrong with how cluttered your brain feels at times when trying to complete tasks, start working on ways to clear out all those thoughts as quickly as possible so they don’t interfere with what needs doing right now.

Tag: productive