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Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

26/12/2016
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“Each morning, we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” Jack Kornfield

Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind. Dr. Seuss
For the meaning of life differs from man to man, from day to day and from hour to hour. What matters, therefore, is not the meaning of life in general but rather the specific meaning of a person’s life at a given moment. Viktor E. Frankl
And every day, the world will drag you by the hand, yelling, “This is important! And this is important! And this is important! You need to worry about this! And this! And this!” And each day, it’s up to you to yank your hand back, put it on your heart and say, No. This is what’s important. Iain Thomas

 

What Matters Most to You? As we come to the end of another year, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on what truly matters. What motivates us to get up in the morning and act with faith and confidence? Some might say love of family and self. Others might reach for their goals and wishes. Yet, a handful might say they are simply being present. Whichever way you choose to respond to the question says more about you/your heart, and that is what matters. 2016 has been a year of surprises and changes. We lost a lot of people dear to our hearts. We saw an increase in acts of terror and a growth in intolerance. We experienced the high of Olympic wins and the low of the massacre of innocents and the deaths of many brilliant folks in our lives. Yet, we got up in the morning and committed to be present and do our work all over again.

As I look back on this year, I must admit that it was hard for me too, but in that harshness were many magical moments and acts of grace. I pushed through, and I am grateful for it all. What matters could fill a book, but I will add a few in this post and update it throughout the week. Share yours in the comments.
Family Matters: If we are in that percentage of people with terrific family relationships, nourish them. Mine (immediate and extended) have been solid this year, and I am grateful to have them in my life.
Friends Matter: This year has tested the limits of some of my friendships, and they survived. I am truly grateful for my friends.
Love Matters: When we feel loved, we thrive, and when we give love, others thrive with us. Love is a powerful emotion that keeps our world running. It is the love of passionate people who believe that there is great good here that keeps us all alive. Think about it
READ: Top Ten Most Important Things In Life
The four most important things in life

 

“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters.” Albert Einstein

Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

In matters of conscience, first thoughts are best. In matters of prudence, last thoughts are best. Robert Hall
Life’s like a play: it’s not the length, but the excellence of the acting that matters. Lucius Annaeus Seneca
What matters is to live in the present, live now, for every moment is now. It is your thoughts and acts of the moment that create your future. The outline of your future path already exists, for you created its pattern by your past. Sai Baba

What else Matters? Since I have decided not to make this a top ten list, I have arranged them as they strike me. No matter how successful we get in life, we need health and the basics of life to enjoy the fruits of our labor. I doubt any of us would want our epitaph to read: “I died with the most toys!”  So, keeping that in mind, I’d say our overall sense of well-being and health are key factors in enjoying a prosperous life. Doing work we love, keeping the company of people who lift us in faith and spirit,  feeding our body and mind healthy foods and messages, and having a positive relationship with ourselves are all critical to a balanced and fulfilled life. When we nourish our bodies and minds and surround ourselves with positive, empowering thoughts and messages, it becomes easier to wish the same for others. When we harbor resentments, hatred, anger, and envy in our hearts, we are inclined to spread those messages as well.

A great sage once said: Make friends with your mind. It can delight and destroy you. So the pointers highlighted below matter.
Health Matters: We often take our health for granted until we get sick.  If we take the time to nurture our bodies and minds and get the requisite rest we need, we will be in a better position to recover if illness strikes. Taking care of our health is an act of self-love, and we can’t afford to leave that behind.
Hope AND Faith Matter: Every day, I step out in faith and hope and aim to accomplish what I set out to do. Hope is the engine that drives my passion to share words of encouragement, and faith carries me throughout the day to get there. You may call it by another name, but we need that impulse to aid our vision.
Lives/Well-being/Mind/Words/ Matter: The gift of birth is one of the greatest gifts we have, and each life has tremendous value. When we look at those who are not like us in a demeaning way, we are invalidating their birth and our own. So just as all of our lives matter, our thoughts, words, and actions must affirm that belief because they show what we hold dear to our hearts. How can we wish others ill while seeking our own well-being? It’s illogical, right?
READ: The 10 Most Important Things to Simplify in Your Life
The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for October and November 2016 are:

NOVEMBER
11/01/6 –   01 All Saints Day/Day of the Dead,  02 All Soul’s Day, o3, Culture Day, 05 Guy Fawkes Day
11/07   –  07 Chocolate + Almonds Day, 11 Martinmas/Remembrance Day/Veterans Day/Armistice Day, 13 World Kindness Day
11/14 – 14 Full Moon, 15 Republic Day, 16 Day of Repentance 20, National Black Consciousness Day/Revolution Day
11/21 –   21 World Hello Day, 23 National Cashew Day, 24 Thanksgiving Day
11/28  –   29 New Moon/E-Greetings Day/National Day of Listening

 

DECEMBER
12/05   –    01 World AIDS Day,  02 Intnt’nl Abolition of Slavery Day, 07 Pearl Harbor/Remembrance, 08 Immaculate Conception,
12/12   –    10 Human Rights Day, 12 Green Day,  16 Day of Reconciliation,
12/19   –    18 Intnt ’l Migrants Day, 21 Winter Solstice, 24 Start of Hanukkah,  25  Christmas Day
12/26  –    26 Start of Kwanzaa Day, 31 End of Year!

Are You Looking for Ways to Stay Creative in 2016?

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– Join the Daily Post Post-a-day or Post-a-week Challenge.

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— Join the BlogHer Writing Lab

 

More Below!
“Everyone goes through adversity in life, but what matters is how you learn from it.” Lou Holtz

Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

Motivation Mondays: What Matters?

It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. Henry David Thoreau
The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters. Audrey Hepburn
In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock. Thomas Jefferson

What more Matters? Most of us go through life wondering why we are here on this earth. We struggle through trials and tribulations looking for that one little morsel of happiness. We create lists of things we’d love to do and 5-10 year plans of goals we hope to achieve, and we pursue creative outlets to keep it all running smoothly like a well-oiled machine. Then one day, we stop and ask why? The simple answer is: Because what you are doing adds value to the whole; our efforts reverberate like the pebble tossed in the pond, and all those actions we performed with love keep the wheel of life churning. Our actions add meaning not only to our lives but to the lives of others. They give us reason to stay motivated and focused on contributing our part to society, and that also helps shape our game plan.

Can you imagine a life without a raison d’être? It is impossible to envision. Even the littlest act we perform adds to our life’s work, so stay motivated and don’t give up.
Motivation/Goals Matter: Having clear goals or a sense of daily purpose can help us stay focused and healthy. When we tune in to what gives us joy, and we work at achieving it, our feelings of well-being increase. So every bit of effort we make daily to run our households and help others can make a difference.
Creativity Matters: Music, Art, books, dance, and every creative endeavor we pursue or enjoy matter because they add rasa/ juice to our lives. Without the breadth of creativity on this planet, we would not enjoy all the technological or even medical innovation that we do. Scientific research and artistic development walk hand in hand, and we all have access to that door. Take a moment to relax and look around you, take in the beauty of nature, and live… our creativity resides there.
Happiness Matters: Oh, that elusive and even magical word is promised to all and to no one, BUT we can create our own happiness by being grateful for what we have, being present to the simple delights in life, and by expressing our joy at every opportunity. Happiness is an inside job, and it is not the reserve of an exclusive club or group. We have to choose to live in contentment and to be happy over the simple pleasures of life. If things make you mad, examine what’s behind them and then look for a positive solution. If something makes you angry, look at why anger is triggered and determine a way to rise above it. We can try to shift our thinking, and the more we practice it, the easier it becomes… Wishing you all the best in 2017!
READ: What is the most important thing in life? And why?
What Is the Most Important Thing in Life?

 

Have a Happy Holiday Season!

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Positive Motivation Tip:  Reflect on what matters most to you and hold it close to your heart.

Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge, or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a motivational word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment, and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com
Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays
Twitter hashtag: – Use this on Twitter #MotvnM
Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up
Facebook Page: MotivationOnMondays. Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others.
Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to complement the page. It serves as another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.

Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, useWordPress’’ integrated tool on your blog, or you are welcome to use mine. (see dedicated page)
Tag: – Motivation Mondays
Hashtag: – #MotvnM
Related Posts

 

PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: All Photos –   via Love, Wikipedia, and/or  Matter, Family, Life, Health, Love, via Pixabay

Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet

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from → Global Events, Motivation Mondays, Positive Advice, Posts & Photos 2016
185 Comments leave one →
  1. Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
    26/12/2016 5:04 pm

    Wishing everyone peace, joy and abundant blessings during this holiday season! merrychristmas, love, happyhanukkah, and kwanzaablessings! <3

    Reply
  2. Amber permalink
    26/12/2016 5:16 pm

    My family matters, of course. Also, my happiness. If I’m unhappy, it doesn’t make others around me happy. I try to always take some me time each day to help keep me sane.

    Reply
  3. Kait Around The Kingdom permalink
    26/12/2016 5:26 pm

    I love the idea of these motivational posts! People always need a little pick me up sometimes!

    Reply
  4. edira permalink
    26/12/2016 6:33 pm

    I agree, It’s important to know and decide the things that matters the most so it can guide us to the right direction. Health and well-being is on my top list!

    Reply
  5. Mihaela Echols permalink
    26/12/2016 6:28 pm

    What matters most to me is my walk with Christ and my husband.

    Reply
  6. momknowsbest15 permalink
    26/12/2016 9:22 pm

    I like to think I am the yellow ball in among all the blue ones. I like to be unique

    Reply
  7. Krysten permalink
    26/12/2016 9:25 pm

    My son means the most to me.
    Thank you for the motivation <3

    Reply
  8. The Travel Ninjas permalink
    26/12/2016 10:34 pm

    Great thoughts on the things that matter most. So interesting how the biggies are so inter-related. Thanks for the motivation.

    Reply
  9. Anne permalink
    26/12/2016 10:34 pm

    Your posts are so Inspiring. Much needed motivation.
    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  10. Milica Momcilovic permalink
    26/12/2016 11:08 pm

    I am so greatful and thankful for my family, friends and health too. For me, this year was very succesfull but, hopefully, next one will be even better. I wish!

    Reply
  11. Jenni Petrey permalink
    27/12/2016 4:38 am

    As usual, your posts are always motivational. I love popping over here to read your words of wisdom, always very insightful.

    Reply
  12. Terri Ramsey Beavers permalink
    27/12/2016 4:40 am

    What a great post and reminder of what matters. I used to harbor resentment towards someone because he wouldn’t take no for an answer and every time I turned around he was near by. I felt like he was stalking me. He died this past year and I realized that I shouldn’t have been harboring resentment towards him but instead I should have tried to find a way to make him understand why I kept saying no. I want to go into 2017 with the reminder of the people that matter and look forward to a new beginning and a new year. I hope your new year is amazing. I look forward to all of your new posts which always encourage me.

    Reply
  13. Jolina permalink
    27/12/2016 6:36 am

    I love this time of year, it forces me to reflect and appreciate all the blessings of the previous year! To me – it all boils down to love and family. I think everything I do I do for them. Cheesy huh? 🙂 Have a bright and blessed New Year!

    Reply
  14. Melanie Smith permalink
    27/12/2016 7:53 am

    That first quote touched my heart! Everyday is a new beggining. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  15. Shelley Zurek (@stillblondeaaty) permalink
    27/12/2016 9:15 am

    I agree with your things that matter. At the top of my list would be God Matters and How you live matters. It so does for me.

    Reply
  16. Leigh Anne permalink
    27/12/2016 10:44 am

    My vision for 2017 is to focus on what matters to me in my life-my family, my job, and my blog. Best wishes to you as well.

    Reply
  17. Neely (@Neelykins) permalink
    27/12/2016 12:42 pm

    I think doing good work, having a good attitude, being kind, and recognizing all we have is what matters. Spending quality time with loved ones as well.

    Reply
  18. Chrissy Mazzocchi permalink
    27/12/2016 12:50 pm

    I love your Motivation Mondays posts, they are so inspiring!

    Reply
  19. Valerie Gray (@valmg) permalink
    27/12/2016 1:04 pm

    Goals, along with tracking them, are important. That Dr Seuss quote is one of my favorites, great choice.

    Reply
  20. Liz Mays permalink
    27/12/2016 2:31 pm

    I like your list of things that matter to you! It helps to keep these things in mind when you’re making decisions or are in need of motivation.

    Reply
  21. Michele permalink
    27/12/2016 2:41 pm

    What matters most to me changes with each new day–of course my family, friends and any pets I currently have will always matter.

    Reply
  22. beautybrite permalink
    27/12/2016 2:56 pm

    I’ve had a good year. I am not blaming 2016 for all “the bad things” that have happened as everyone else is on Facebook.

    Reply
  23. Wren permalink
    27/12/2016 3:29 pm

    My kids certainly matter most to me. They are my motivation to do well and never give up. They watch what I do and I don’t ever want to let them down. 🙂

    Reply
  24. Divya @ Eat. Teach. Blog permalink
    27/12/2016 4:50 pm

    Definitely something to think about before heading into 2017. I’ve been very pensive lately. Thinking about what my priorities truly are. I know that family matters. My marriage matters. Doing things that bring me joy – that matters. Everything else is secondary.

    Reply
  25. Eric || The Bucket List Project permalink
    27/12/2016 5:16 pm

    I love the Dr Seuss quote…do what matters the most to you in life. Remember what truly matters in your life, family, loved ones, and your dreams! I hope that 2017 is truly filled with what matters for you and everyone!

    Reply
  26. Isaly Holland permalink
    27/12/2016 5:23 pm

    I love motivational pieces (: Thanks for this post!

    xoxo
    Isaly Holland

    Reply
  27. Alicia permalink
    27/12/2016 6:07 pm

    Very cool. I like these types of posts.

    Reply
  28. Hey Sharonoox permalink
    27/12/2016 6:31 pm

    I think family is the most important thing in life beside God. There’s the saying that no man is an island. It’s great to be surrounded by people who cares.

    Reply
  29. Cindy Ingalls permalink
    27/12/2016 6:57 pm

    More than anything this year my family matters to me most. As I look back on the past year, my hope is that 2017 is filled with love and happiness for all.

    Reply
  30. noonetocompare permalink
    27/12/2016 7:06 pm

    The new year is a great time to reevaluate priorities and make changes if needed. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  31. jamandteablog permalink
    27/12/2016 8:06 pm

    Yes, you have to maintain and nourish family relationships. They are the most important!

    Reply
  32. nancymamamaven permalink
    27/12/2016 9:01 pm

    Friends and Family matter – it’s been a tough year for my family as we lost my husband’s 100 year old grandmother in early September. Happy New Year!

    Reply
  33. Stefanie permalink
    27/12/2016 9:33 pm

    Love the quote about making friends with your mind. Such an inspiring thought since our mind can hurt or help us heal

    Reply
  34. Shirley permalink
    27/12/2016 11:35 pm

    I love your posts. Everytime you share something unique and good. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  35. Robin Rue permalink
    28/12/2016 12:38 am

    This is such an inspirational post! You used one of my favorite quotes by Dr Seuss too.

    Reply
  36. Jill Conyers (@jillconyers) permalink
    28/12/2016 1:59 am

    It’s so interesting to me to look back and see the evolution of what matters. Noticing the things that change over time and the things that always matter.

    Reply
  37. Tauyanm permalink
    28/12/2016 2:56 am

    this made me think and realise a lot of things. its another year for us to focus on what matters. Family, Friends, Loved Ones, goals Happiness. etc…

    Reply
  38. R U S S permalink
    28/12/2016 4:42 am

    At my age now, the things that matter are no longer materials things. Me-time, good + meaningful relationships, rest, adventure are some of the things that I find meaning in these past months. I guess when we get older, we go more for quality over quantity.

    Reply
  39. Steve Goodwin permalink
    28/12/2016 5:42 am

    You have done an amazing job this year with your posts consistency and thoughtfulness! I’m sure you will find ways to bring it in 2017 to even higher levels! Have a great day!

    Reply
  40. Vanessa permalink
    28/12/2016 5:52 am

    What matter to me the most is family. Love your motivation Mondays posts.

    Reply
  41. brighton111 permalink
    28/12/2016 5:54 am

    This is a very true and uplifting message, especially as we move into a new year. Very positive message about finding happiness and concentrating on what is really important in life.

    Reply
  42. Chubskulit Rose permalink
    28/12/2016 7:37 am

    Right niow, my family and our health is what want natters the most. It is always great to know what to prioritize in spending your time.

    Reply
  43. The Trophy WifeStyle permalink
    28/12/2016 8:24 am

    Perfect time to read such a thing!!!! I’ve even reflecting all week to try and map out 2017!!! Since to think about all the good!

    Reply
  44. fightskills.net permalink
    28/12/2016 9:33 am

    most things dont matter. but the ones that do, they matter. cool post!

    Reply
  45. Tyler permalink
    28/12/2016 10:02 am

    Yes! Absolutely love this! Beautifully written.

    xoxo
    Tyler

    Reply
  46. dialkrista permalink
    28/12/2016 10:59 am

    Wishing you and yours a happy holidays! 🙂 I enjoy your motivational Mondays and look forward to visiting your blog more often in 2017!

    Reply
  47. Travel Blogger permalink
    28/12/2016 11:37 am

    First and foremost my answer is family but also an inherent need to succeed and I’m lucky enough to love the work that I do so that helps me get up in the morning as well.

    Reply
  48. Ana De-Jesus permalink
    28/12/2016 1:42 pm

    I like the sentiment of each morning being reborn again. Creativity does matter.

    Reply
  49. Eileen permalink
    28/12/2016 1:51 pm

    This is a very good read and very timely too. The most important thing for me is family. I love my family dearly, although sometimes I wish they love me as much as I love them. Hoping you had a meaningful Christmas and wishing you all the best this coming New Year, Elizabeth.

    Reply
  50. NPC permalink
    28/12/2016 3:29 pm

    What a great way to look back and reflect. Glad you were able to push through with grace.

    Reply
  51. adriana permalink
    28/12/2016 5:18 pm

    Being present in your every day life is so important! Time goes so quickly, so being present is so important.

    Reply
  52. Andrea permalink
    28/12/2016 6:54 pm

    I love the phrase, “make friends with your mind”. I am an avid believer in shaping my existence and happiness with my mindset. I’ve gone through the hardest year of my life, and have grown more this year than any other. Our attitudes and perceptions are infinitely important.

    Reply
  53. cre8tone kylie permalink
    28/12/2016 9:03 pm

    In fact, everything matters.. hehe~ Happy holiday and happy new year to you!

    Reply
  54. Happily Simple Mama (@simplemama2013) permalink
    28/12/2016 9:51 pm

    I like to look at each morning as a brand new day and a chance to make self improvements. What matters the most to me is that all humans are treated the same regardless of ethnicity, race, culture, and religious beliefs.

    Reply
  55. Czjai Reyes-Ocampo permalink
    28/12/2016 10:31 pm

    My husband and my son mean the world to me. They keep me inspired and motivated in everything that I do.

    Reply
  56. Adriana Lopez (@MrsALOMartin) permalink
    28/12/2016 10:32 pm

    My family and my health are the most important things for me. Peace of mind and doing what I love it is also important.

    Reply
  57. rochkirstin permalink
    29/12/2016 1:39 am

    As the saying goes, the only constant change in life is change itself. 2016 has brought so many changes in my life as well. What matters most is my relationship with family.

    Reply
  58. Franc Ramon permalink
    29/12/2016 2:05 am

    What matters are the essentials in life. Life is simply, we just know what we hold dear and what we value.

    Reply
  59. Claire Algarme permalink
    29/12/2016 4:24 am

    I also went through some deep realizations these past years and while a lot has been lost, the more I feel I gained. I found happiness in family and friendships rather than on achievements. This is one good reflection.

    Reply
  60. Lisa Rios permalink
    29/12/2016 5:53 am

    I agree that every morning is pretty new and what we do today matters the most rather than thinking about what happened yesterday or worrying about what will happen tomorrow. To me the love for my family is what motivates me every day and I keep moving ahead despite any hurdles that come my way.

    Reply
  61. The Walking Map permalink
    29/12/2016 9:22 am

    Just started reading Viktor E. Frankl’s book. Your post made me think of an R.E.M. song title: “Living Well’s the Best Revenge”

    Reply
  62. Dawn Gibson-Thigpen permalink
    29/12/2016 9:48 am

    love your motivation mondays. thanks so much for sharing.

    Reply
  63. DecoPix (@TiinaTibs) permalink
    29/12/2016 11:16 am

    It’s important to find out what really matters. What are those things in life that make us happy and feel good by the end of the day.

    Reply
  64. Emma White (@TheRealSupermum) permalink
    29/12/2016 1:59 pm

    Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind. Dr. Seuss is my fav quote of all time and I guess the very simple answer is my 6 kids and I need to stop moaning and be thankful they are happy and healthy

    Reply
  65. Jessie Krieger permalink
    29/12/2016 2:22 pm

    I always love your motivation Monday posts! Dr. Seuss is a favorite in our house, it’s amazing how inspiring he is to adults, when my toddlers adore him so much too.

    Reply
  66. Eileen permalink
    29/12/2016 2:34 pm

    I know I was not born without a purpose. However, that purpose is still unclear to me. Is it to raise children? Is it to care for family members who are ill? Is it to pay bills? I have no idea. This is the reason why I pray and pray hard everyday for guidance. Thanks Elizabeth for this inspiring post.

    Reply
  67. The Mad Mommy permalink
    29/12/2016 3:30 pm

    Sometimes, finding out what matters is harder than it seems. It can also switch and change with time.

    Reply
  68. MyYellowApron permalink
    29/12/2016 5:10 pm

    A fan of your Motivational Monday posts. Happiness and Creativity definitely matter in my life.

    Reply
  69. Tami @ ThisMomsDelight permalink
    29/12/2016 7:56 pm

    I have been neglecting what matters most. I have started making small changes to make 2017 more meaningful.

    Reply
  70. Marielle Altenor permalink
    29/12/2016 10:54 pm

    Health and family are what really matters to me. My family motivates me to be my better self.

    Reply
  71. durhamslovelifetravel permalink
    30/12/2016 12:14 am

    what matters is a great reminder for me, family, friends and love, and sometimes it can be difficult when those things that matter can tare you apart. Really miss my family and friends from moving so far away for love and now very difficult

    Reply
  72. Mhaan Arambulo (@momyrockinstyle) permalink
    30/12/2016 2:51 am

    What matters to me the most? My family and friends. As long as they are happy, I’m happy too. Happy New Year Elizabeth! 🙂

    Mhaan

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      09/08/2026 5:19 am

      Happy New Year to you and yours!

      Reply
  73. nbosken permalink
    30/12/2016 2:57 am

    Everyone has been saying that this is the worst year. And while some not so great things have happened, I think we all have things to be thankful for.

    Reply
  74. Tina Gleisner permalink
    30/12/2016 6:06 am

    Wow, very impressed with all the ways in which you’re building community online. Congrats to you & thanks for the inspiration.

    Reply
  75. Alesia Taylor permalink
    30/12/2016 9:31 am

    What matters to me most is my relationship with Jesus, My family and my health. In that order. That will be my focus in 2017

    Reply
  76. Kait Around The Kingdom permalink
    30/12/2016 10:09 am

    What matters to me most as I get older is quality friends and family. Health is definitely important too!

    Reply
  77. srisk permalink
    30/12/2016 10:21 am

    This one is my favorite: It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. Henry David Thoreau Such awesome words of motivation. Thank you for this!

    Reply
  78. Fred permalink
    30/12/2016 11:56 am

    Thanks for this wonderful reminder about what really matters in life. We are so preoccupied with so much activity at work that we forget what really matters at home and in our hearts. Happy New Year!

    Reply
  79. Ave Hla permalink
    30/12/2016 1:52 pm

    Happy holidays! There are a lot of things that matter, but at the moment what most matters are that my family is happy and being healthy.

    Reply
  80. JcCee permalink
    30/12/2016 9:39 pm

    I can relate that I felt more creativity when I was relaxing or even taking a walk and enjoying the beauty of nature. I need to add more of that into my schedule. It took me a long time to realize that happiness is an inside job, we have a choice in the matter. Wish you the best in 2017 also!

    Reply
  81. Bhushavali permalink
    31/12/2016 7:24 am

    Happy New Year Elizabeth. I agree with all your points. I think, to put in a nutshell, all things that make us human are all that matter!

    Reply
  82. Isaly Holland permalink
    31/12/2016 4:18 pm

    One of my favorite quotes is “With every hardship comes ease.” It makes me realize that everything is temporary as far as stress, and problems. Everyone should be reminded of what matters such as love, family and yourself.

    xoxo
    Isaly Holland

    Reply
  83. thetravelpockets permalink
    31/12/2016 5:06 pm

    My family and close friends matter the most and all I want is happiness and good health for all of them. Cheers to 2017!

    Reply
  84. Rodanthi permalink
    01/01/2017 8:53 am

    What really matters in life? Well, for me it’s love and forgiveness for everyone around – not easy to practice, I must admit. Hope and faith is also very important. And always be positive! 🙂

    Reply
  85. Tiffany Yong permalink
    01/01/2017 8:57 am

    I think I will be looking back at all these articles of yours when I’m typing out my reflections and 2017 resolutions… making them prolly nearing my birthday

    Reply
  86. Anosa permalink
    01/01/2017 11:07 am

    2016 was a year of many tragedies but we held on steadfastly to our families and friends. It’s important to know what matters to us.

    Reply
  87. DavidTofie permalink
    01/01/2017 3:54 pm

    I feel like a lot of people drain themselves and care about things that don’t matter. It’s important to remember what is important and start improving ourselves 🙂

    Reply
  88. Sunshine Kelly permalink
    01/01/2017 7:33 pm

    The things that matter to me is my family and happiness. There is no place like home and where ever I go or travel I will go back to my home.

    Reply
  89. DecoPix (@TiinaTibs) permalink
    02/01/2017 12:41 am

    There are so many things that matters. Your matter-list is great and motivating. I need to copy it and really think what matters and what not so much.

    Reply
  90. dreaminglouddemo permalink
    02/01/2017 12:54 pm

    For me having a positive morning is very important for the rest of the day! and I agree every day is new chance to make ourself better

    Reply
  91. Dreammerin permalink
    02/01/2017 4:00 pm

    I totally agree with the first quote! “Each morning, we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” – always true

    Reply
  92. Via Bella permalink
    02/01/2017 5:22 pm

    I love motivation Mondays! This is very cool- thanks.

    Reply
  93. lex permalink
    02/01/2017 11:35 pm

    Blessings . Picture speak alot and yes this one has done a deep one too

    Reply
  94. koreandoll permalink
    02/01/2017 10:05 pm

    Life is so fast. While many of us have many aspirations and goals in life, some of us still struggle figuring our what we are here for. A family member of ours just passed and despite the holidays bringing in in joy, a loss is still a loss. I agree on learning and knowing what matter the most.

    Reply
  95. Ana Ojha permalink
    03/01/2017 12:57 pm

    For me, happiness matters the most! If you’re not loving your work and people in your life, everything is vain!

    Reply
  96. Debbie-jean Lemonte permalink
    03/01/2017 5:48 pm

    Having clear goals matters to me. When I don’t have a list or clear vision of where/what I want to go/do, I feel lost.

    Reply
  97. lhourdesmercadero permalink
    12/01/2017 11:03 pm

    I love reading every word of your post. I’ve been suffering from mild depression and also yesterday is not a good day for after someone stole my hard earned money from doing some campaign article .I save that money for my daughter’s school tuition fee this coming school year but it was stolen. I don’t know where, when, and how to start again until I read your post.
    I’m a simple minded person but I do like to read post that I can understand every single word in there.

    Thank you!

    Reply
  98. Sarah Bailey permalink
    12/01/2017 11:49 pm

    In my personal opinion, our relationship with God is the one that matters the most. Our life wouldn’t be like this if not of Him. All of the most important things and persons in our life should be entrusted to Him and if you adore and follow his command He will never disappoint you.

    Reply
  99. Heather permalink
    13/01/2017 8:26 pm

    family friends and love is what is at the top of my list too. I’m definitely feeling the importance of things these days and what’s not important as well.

    Reply
  100. Sarah permalink
    13/01/2017 10:28 pm

    I love the idea that we are born with each new day. Or, born again. Christ has blessed us with yet another day to celebrate and rejoice. This is what matters.

    Reply
  101. HannaNilsonDesigns permalink
    14/01/2017 5:38 am

    I think seeing the good in hard times is an important strenghth. Having people close to support you can make it much easier.

    Reply
  102. Misty Dawn Nelson permalink
    14/01/2017 7:12 am

    Such a good motivation to me, I love this message and perfect for me right now

    Reply
  103. Luci {Luci's Morsels} permalink
    14/01/2017 10:44 am

    I like how you’ve broken down your meaningful thoughts into categories. Sometimes it’s hard to reflect when the subject matter is too broad, but it’s much easier to focus on one area at a time like FAMILY or CAREER. Thanks for the inspiration to do some soul searching of my own!

    Reply
  104. Sauumye Chauhan permalink
    14/01/2017 1:07 pm

    For me what matters the most is me, my family, my friends and their health & well being. There is no greater joy than seeing all of them happy

    Reply
  105. Peachy A. permalink
    14/01/2017 1:28 pm

    What matters most o me is still family and happiness!

    Reply
  106. Deborah Cruz permalink
    14/01/2017 8:00 pm

    You are so right. Different things are important for different people or even at different times in our lives. For me, family is what comes first and being present with them. My girls have taught me to careless about what others think and instead focus on those who matter. I can’t get their childhood back and there are no do-overs so I have to get this as right as I can this go around. This post is a good reminder to prioritize. Loved the inclusion of all the inspirational quotes.

    Reply
  107. myfourandmore permalink
    14/01/2017 8:43 pm

    2016 was a rough year for us… although, we found out what truly matters through it. US… OUR FAMILY and God are the only things that truly matters. If we don’t have those two… we have nothing else! 🙂

    Reply
  108. emmaeatsandexplores permalink
    15/01/2017 8:11 am

    At the beginning of a new weeks I really like to reflect back on the week before – and even more so at the beginning of a new year. You’re so right that it’s important not to sweat the small stuff – focus on what really matters to you and strive to be the best person you can be!

    Reply
  109. desertislandskin2015 permalink
    16/01/2017 5:39 pm

    I think its important to take stock of what you have been through from the previous year and move forward, so I like how u have given ways and reminders to keep this in mind.

    Reply
  110. Author Brandi Kennedy permalink
    01/02/2017 4:51 am

    This is a great conversation in general – restating and reevaluating what truly matters in life, and the encouragement to explore what matters most on an individual level (the Iain Thomas quote). We really do get caught up in so many things in our lives, and it makes us forget to focus on the things that really matter most.

    Reply
  111. duffelbagspouse permalink
    05/03/2017 10:31 pm

    When I get up in the morning, the first thing i do is meditate. It equips me to deal with the day and receive whatever motivation I am meant to receive.

    Reply
  112. duffelbagspouse permalink
    16/04/2017 12:23 am

    Every single day we wake up is a chance to be the person we want to be.

    Reply
  113. Lyosha Varezhkina (@lyoshathegirl) permalink
    08/10/2018 9:49 am

    Everything matters to me. Smaller things, bigger things everything brings the perspective. WE can’t have it all but everything matters, at least to me

    Reply
  114. Alejandra permalink
    07/08/2026 4:05 am

    What matters for me is health, above all, then peace of mind. Then, I’m thankful for all the blessings. I think being grateful also matters to feel joy even in the hard times.

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      07/08/2026 3:35 pm

      True. Health is wealth. Without it, we have nothing… thank you!

      Reply
  115. LisaLisa permalink
    07/08/2026 4:51 am

    This was such a meaningful read. It’s amazing how often we get caught up in the rush of everyday life and forget to pause and think about what truly matters. I really appreciated your reminder that health, family, friendships, hope, and simply being present are some of life’s greatest blessings.

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      07/08/2026 3:35 pm

      Thank you. I say these things to remind myself too.

      Reply
  116. gentlebim permalink
    07/08/2026 4:53 am

    It’s so important to step back and really take stock like this. So much of what we place importance on really isn’t.

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      07/08/2026 3:34 pm

      I agree. We have to have discernment.

      Reply
  117. Amber Myers permalink
    07/08/2026 3:28 pm

    So many things matter to me. The world can be such a beautiful place when you think about what all you have and what matters.

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      09/08/2026 5:09 am

      True. There are so many facets of life that uplift us and yet they don’t come with a price tag or an audience. Life matters and so do facets of our experiences that have intrinsic value.

      Reply

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