An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth

In this episode, Sydney and Kelly take a lighthearted look into the world of overused, confusing, or downright annoying adages and phrases. From "it is what it is" to "everything happens for a reason," they unpack why some common sayings rub people the wrong way. Expect laughter, a bit of ranting, and maybe even a few suggestions for phrases that shouldcatch on instead. Tune in for a fun conversation that might just make you think twice the next time someone says, "at the end of the day..."We all hear things differentlyWe are inspired by different sayingsWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly dive into the traits of under-controlled and over-controlled personalities. Over and under control and our emotionsTraits and tendencies of over-controlled personalitiesTraits and tendencies of under-controlled personalitiesThe spectrum of bothThe impact of these on choicesBeing able to recognize your traits and find the humor as well as ways you may want to growThere are benefits to both of these personality typesWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly dive into a conversation about the things we carry with us—memories, emotions, and experiences that shape who we are. Together, they explore how to recognize what no longer serves us, the price we are paying, and how to begin the process of letting go to make space for healing and growth.Material things we hang ontoSurrounding ourselves with thingsHabits we cling to for comfortRelationships Stories of ourselves that do not fit anymoreIdeas of success that we chaseStoring anger, resentments, even our joysEmptiness and spaciousnessLetting go makes roomWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly share strategies for making the transition from vacation to routine daily life. Sydney shares her 30th birthday experienceTransitioning from vacation and the the blues it can causeDon't use the last days of vacation thinking about what awaits you at homeAllowing yourself those feelings of sadness or whatever it may be when you return home. Bring small adventures into you routine lifeCelebrate making it through the first week backPace of vacation versus the pace of routine lifeFind what you enjoy about your daily routine and having that bring comfortBuilding in relaxation time when you returnWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly conclude their series on roots and personal growth.Growing our own roots is not isolatingTrees communicate with one anotherOthers help us in deepening our rootsHow does it feel to be rootedKnowing when your roots are in need of nurtureRoots and communityWe are dependent on one another, interconnectedWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly continue our series on roots and personal growth. We take a look at how our roots can have an impact on others. Rootedness as your source, connectednessOur rootedness allows others to lean on at timesCan be beside others as they develop their rootsNot taking on other's rootsFamily tree and starting your own rootsRescuing and fixing hinders others self development Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly continue the series on rootedness. This episode explores practices, how inward and outward growth complement each other.Why care about our rootsGrowing deeper roots while also growing outwardOutward growth can lead to inward growthTime for bothListening deeply to know what is neededSmall things that are beyond ourselvesPractices for rootednessWhen we have felt uprootedThere are times we just get toppled overLiving in uprootedness...for a timeWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly begin a series on Rooted-ness and growing inward and outward. In this episode we explain what we mean by rooted-ness and explore things that we are rooted in.Rootedness as the heart or core, the source of supportWhat makes up that source or core?Cultural roots, Spiritual roots, familial roots, friendships, ritualsHow do our roots deepen?Grounding places that nourish rootsHow do we practice feeling rooted?What do you do to establish roots when feel you didn't grow up with rootedness?What do we plant ourselves in?Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss their experience at a "Chinese Take-Out" cooking class.Overall good experienceWould be fun to go with a groupVery informative and well taughtEggrolls, Kung Pao Chicken, Fried Green Beans, Fried RiceShared all prep work with 3 others, so didn't do as much as I would have likedAt the end, a little short on food, some didn't get any chickenOver all, would do it again, maybe pickier about the menuWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly take a look at Kelly's passions, which include dreams and stories.DreamsLayers of DreamsUniversality of DreamsInterpreting your dreamSymbolismPaying attention to dreamsStories...we all have themStories and connections, tapestry of lifeRelationships...being presentWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney shares what she is passionate about as Kelly gets to ask all the questions. Gentle ParentingGentle parenting is not permissive parentingGentle or sturdy parentingIt is about boundaries and natural consequencesCo-regulation and modelingRepair with your childClassical music is for everyoneAlexis FfrenchTry a concertWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly take a playful yet, insightful look at boredom.Lack of interest, motivation, and engagement in the world around usMatching energy level to activityWhat do you do when you are bored?Reasons for boredomMismatch between how much we want to engage cognitively and the taskWhat is the energy level you are wanting to fillWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth Sydney and Kelly have fun exploring the idea of interdependence.Interdependence: interconnected and mutual reliance in relationships to people and all creationEnvironment, ecosystems, family, traffic, agriculture, water, sports teams....TheologicalDoes not take away all independenceIt can have negative effects and lead to conflictsWe are made to live in communityInter-beingAwareness of self and othersWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly share a bit of their personal spiritual journeys. Church as a part of childhood for SydneySydney had a rough patch being a part of the youth group, but found a place in choir.Learning faith through songsSustained through rough life experiencesChurch aren't perfectKelly found a place to belong within the church after moving in high schoolUndergrad and masters in religious educationChurch is made up of people...need a lot of graceIts community and it can be hardExamine your faith for yourself, seek, question...growWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly take a look at what is unique about Millennials and their spirituality.Focus on personal journeyBlend various traditions and faithsOnline access to retreats and groups, appsWholistic wellness and spiritualityLook to the church as well as other places for answersOkay with not having solid answersCommunity is importantAllowing for questioningWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss how images people hold of God change through personal experiences and their spiritual journey.Exploring images or attributes, ideas and understandings of God Sometimes we need to heal images of God that have been harmfulHow do we reflect the God we believe in?Limited language is all we have to describe GodDoubting, questions, and growthNo matter where you wander, God is thereWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly begin a series on spirituality. This episode focuses on stages of faith development.How did I get here from there in my spiritualityFoundationsAges 0 - 2, learning trust, this can impact our trust in God laterAges 3 - 6, our image of God comes from our parents, very concrete, how are responded to when we don't do what is expected or wanted, are we shamed or given graceAges 7 - 12, justice and fairness, good happens to good people, God is old, white man with a white beard. Literal, logical thinking begins to develop, experience faith12 - adulthood, trust in institution of religion, challenges of faith are often ignored due to feeling threatened. If this...then this. People can get stuck hereMid 20's to late 30's, reflective stage, forming own beliefs, owning faithMid-life crisis, moves beyond conventional beliefs. Open to others faith perspective and not threatened by others understandings.Universalizing faith, rarely achieved. Can relate to anyone at any stage and don't have the need to push people along in their faith. Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss their personal experience and journey with mental health.Openness to talking about mental healthMental health and mental well-beingKelly's journey walking beside daughter struggling with depressionLooking for a therapist that is a fitNot being a fixer, but a supportShort term situational depression, long term depressionCaring for self while care-givingSydney's postpartum anxietyMedicationsGiving yourself graceDepression does not have to define youWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly continue their interview with Ana Maldonado, LPC, discussing different types of therapy. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDREspecially for trauma and distressing situationsTrauma is stored in your body, this approach is a bottom up versus the other therapies that start with the head...logic etc...Desensitizes the memory, bi-lateral stimulationDo not have to talk through the whole experienceTherapists require training for this therapyWas created for PTSD, but is effective on OCD, anxiety, and other disordersNot necessarily a stand alone treatmentInternal Family Systems, IFS, the movie Inside Out is based on thisHow you either protect your inner self or exile parts of your inner selfIt is more than just your emotions, sometimes it is general concepts, or younger selfEmphasizes self-compassionWorks well with EMDRHow do you find a therapistWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly interview Ana Maldonado, LPC, discussing different types of therapy. This is part one of two episodes on this topic.Every theory has strengths and weaknessesCognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT. The most researched type of therapyBehavior is shaped by your thoughts, often uses worksheetsWorks to install new ways of thinking and directing your thought patternsCan use CBT on a lot of different issues, addictions, relationships...Requires practicing over and over, and role playing is helpfulDialectical Behavioral Therapy, DBT. A subset of CBT. Focuses on emotional regulation. Important for trauma workWorks to create stabilityMindfulness...self aware of emotions and body reactionsDistress tolerance awarenessInterpersonal effectivenessEmotional regulation...how to come back from reactivenessDesigned for borderline personality patients, but is helpful for a variety of diagnosisThis requires a lot of buy-in from clients. You have to choose to practice and commit to change and choose to practice self examination and be uncomfortableAcceptance and changeWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly begin our month-long focus of Mental Health. This episode examines sleep and mental health. We both love our sleep!Sleep cycle and importance of each stage75% of depressed people show symptoms of insomniaAnxiety feeds insomniaRestoration during sleepRoutine and sleepLight exposure and exerciseMeditation and sleepQuieting the mindWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly explore how personal tastes may change along with our personal growth.The Let Them Theory, by Mel RobbinsWhat influences our preferences and tastesFoundations that allow us to moving onWhat we are naturally drawn toTrying new things and being okay when they aren't a fitListening to your inner-selfStagnation versus movement and growthWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss their experience of attending the opera Madam Butterfly.A little history of OperaModern OperaWhat to expectHelpfulness of reading notes prior to attendingImpressed by the diversity of the crowdGive it a try!!Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly play with the theme of tax season and have a conversation around things that can be taxing, things that are emotionally/physically/mentally stressful.How do we assess if something is taxing?Maintaining can be taxingSmall things can add upHow to cope or make things less taxingGain perspectiveSelf-care during these taxing timesWhere does our strength come from?Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly explore our own take on the old adage "April Showers Bring May Flowers." Listen for the cat at the 14 minute mark!Origin of the adageWhat are our showersDouble meaning of showersSmall showers, not all are stormsMajor showersShowers that are mixed of hard things and blessingsBagheera (the cat) joins inLaying the ground work for personal growth and relying on itWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly have a bit of fun with April Fool's before diving into our more serious topic of how we fool ourselves.Signs of self-deceptionCycle of fooling ourselvesFooling ourselves about the present reality, banking on the futurePushing things off or blaming others"Really, I'm fine"Making excusesSelf Awareness...knowing the games we play with ourselvesStarting now, where we areSelf-deception, another way to not be in the nowWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly interview Adam Dorsay, the author of "Super Psyched: Unleash the Power of the 4 Types of Connection."Psyched...doesn't mean happy all the time, it about being connected to our psycheBeing "alive" while we are livingBeing thoughtful about how you allocate your timeConnection---what brings us alive, your life-forceConforming rather than connecting to themselvesConnecting to self, to others, to the world around us and to spirituality or something greater than ourselvesGet curious not furious when working on connectionsReconnect to an activity you used to loveYour formula is your own and find and claim your own GOATWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, Nicole, Cassie, and Cassidy our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly play with the phrase don't miss the boat. What happens when you think you have your ducks in a row? They scatterJust do one thing...onceIts not about making a long term commitmentLong term planning as a way of not startingSelf-sabotageIn a kayak going with what comes, not a super yacht that seems in controlYou don't have to make a project out of everythingDo one small thingWhat do I want to do today, listen for the nudge and try itWe are a part of the flow of the riverWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly explore the difference between pain and suffering, as well as ways to relieve suffering and not adding to it. Defining sufferingDifference between pain and sufferingTypes of sufferingJoy, happiness and sufferingWe all experience sufferingCreating or enhancing our own sufferingHolding suffering and joy ImpermanenceTools for when we are sufferingEmbracing the sufferingWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly talk about the "fruits of the spirit" as they pertain to personal growth and suffering. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, self-controlWho are the fruits of the spirit forTending to your inner self and nurturing yourselfAwareness of areas of growthSome may come more naturally than othersAll faiths have things similar to this which are to be fosteredWays to nurture the fruits of the spiritCultivating these over and over againWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly explore the connection of body and spirituality.Differing views of body and spiritMost religions talk about the body, diet, importance of movement or fitness, cleansing regarding the bodyWhat is spiritualityBody limitations and spiritualitySpiritual beings in a sacred bodyTaking care of body...sacrifice or gift?Spirituality assisting illness and bodily limitationsWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss the effect emotions can have on the body.Body Mapping Emotions...where you feel emotions in your bodyParts of the body are activated by emotions while parts can also be deactivated by emotionsBody-Brain connectionAwareness of tension in your bodyEnergy in the bodySpirituality, emotions, and bodyNeuroplasticity of the brainEmotions do not have to control youTools: body scan meditation, emotion journaling with body focusControlling emotions is not pushing them down, it includes recognizing them and finding a way to express themWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly explore the traits of a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). This is not the same as Sensitive Processing Disorder, which is a diagnosis. This topic has to do with sensitivities to light, touch, taste, sound, smells, etc...Dr. Elaine Aron...book and websiteSensitivities vary from person to personCharacteristics that accompany HSPEmpatheticSpirituality and the HSPTrauma in childhood and HSPBoundariesGood to be able to name it and then learn tools to work with itWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly reflect on their experience in a rage room at Unchartered Adventures in San Antonio.Rage rooms began around 2008 Can be a great release, it took a bit to get comfortable with the smashing and breaking of bottles, plates, etc...Anger is a signal, there is something is wrong, something else is behind angerAnger is healthy and leads to positive action can result from angerMisplaced anger gives anger a bad rapWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly wrap up January with a look at optimism. This is our one year anniversary!How to keep a hopeful, optimistic outlookWhat is optimism? Creating a mindset for optimismHealth benefits Faith or spirituality and optimismOptimism and reality, not unrealisticLook at nature and restorationHope from a distanceOptimism and the Dallas cowboys...is it possibleWhat is your symbol for optimism or hope?Trust and optimismWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss motivation and tools that help keep us motivated. Extrinsic and Intrinsic motivationProcess of motivationImportance of both internal and external motivationWhat stifles motivationADHD and motivation...Kelly can't use this as an excuseCosts and benefitsMemory, recall, and motivationTips for motivationWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discuss the freedom that comes from self-forgiveness and how it is tied to forgiving others, Kelly interrupts Sydneys clever segue.Forgiveness is a processForgiveness does not mean reconciliatonHow do we teach or talk about forgivenessMoving on too fastSteps in the processThe process cycles and we return again and againChanging or turning around I rely on God, Higher Power, etc..., my own will power is not enoughForgiveness is for ourself and the freedom that comes from forgivingWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly start the year with a series that sets our viewer with a mindset of personal success. This episode examines self-worth and self-love.Building a foundation We are first and foremost good, beloved, sacred beingsWe are not our mistakesI am enough...my authentic selfSelf-love recognizes all of me with compassionWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly alternatives to New Year resolutions. History of New Year ResolutionsWatch Night servicesEnding of one year and beginning of a new year a natural time to reflect45% of the people make resolutions and 8% keep themWhy are resolutions hard to keep?Resolutions are so big and can be overwhelmingOne and done or small increments versus huge goal, something manageable Find the "why" behind the goalPain of not changing must be greater than the pain of changingVisualizationA word for the year as a focus for growth Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly talk holiday movies. Also...a little advice on taking care when getting a cold, getting ahead of it!Holiday movies can actually be good for us...yes, studies reveal thisCreates memoriesCinema-therapy, its a thingSome of our favorite movies...claymation, classics, newer moviesMovies if your not about Christmas moviesWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly about the spirituality of this time of year and the image and metaphor of light as a thread that connects us all.A time of hope and light during the season leading up to ChristmasFinding light as we gather with othersAttending a religious service when its not "your cup of tea" or different than what you preferLooking inward and then broadening my viewHow have others offered us light...hope, comfort, laughter etc..that we needed in the momentA season of waiting and anticipationHow will I be surprised during this season?How will I be a light to others?Website: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly discover that Sydney is much better at picking gifts than Kelly. Gifts for the competitorGifts for the pet-loverGifts for the homebodyGifts for the extravertMini vacuum desk cleanerFor Cooks and bakersFor the forgetful peopleSpiritual giftsFor travelersFor the person who "doesn't want anything"Experiential giftFunny giftsWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly talk about finding satisfaction and reflecting on the "why" of our wants.Negative connotation associated with materialismOutward--acquiring the "right" thingsHow long do the "new" things make you satisfiedAlways wanting...confusing wants and needsRealizing what we have is hard when we look outward to see what we don't haveLooking outward to find an inner voidScarcity BrainTrue freedom comes from examining the want and seeing what is on the other side of thatComparing ourselves to othersBalance is keyWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly have a light conversation around traditions, sharing some from friends and family.Sydney's cat Bagheera makes his debutWhat are traditions and what role do they serveWhy are traditions importantAllowing traditions to end and starting new onesEverything from cookies to underwear, from food to musicA tradition from FinlandActivities together instead of giftsWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly have a conversation around grief and the holidays.Grief is a processGrief comes from any significant loss...loss of a loved one, a dream, a job, a marriage...Sensory reminders associated with the holidaysHolding sorrow and joyEach person grieves differentlyBeing with those who are grievingWays to copeGive yourself space and careDo what feels best for youCommunity and church grief groups during this time"Blue" or "Longest Night" services for those grieving during the holidaysCrisis hotline and other contact information | GriefandMourning.comGriefandMourning.comGrief: Causes, Types, Stages, How to Cope With It, and When to Get HelpHoliday Grief: How to Cope With Loss During a Joyous TimeWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly interview Ana Maldonado, LPC Associate about boundaries, family, and stress during the holidays.Family issues heightened during holidays and expectationsFamily structure and systems that can highlight issuesEnmeshed familiesDisengaged familiesRituals and changeIf you want healing for your family, you begin by healing yourself...looking inwardBoundaries definedExamples of setting and maintaining boundariesBooks, resourcesStop Walking on Eggshells (third edition) - Stop Walking on EggshellsFacing Codependence: What It Is, Where It Comes from, How It Sabotages Our Lives by Pia Mellody | GoodreadsCodependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself by Melody Beattie | GoodreadsGood Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You Are by Lysa TerKeurst | GoodreadsEMDR International Association Home | EMDR PractitionersWelcome to EMDR.com - EMDR Institute - EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING THERAPYBoundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No - Boundaries BooksWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly begin a series on self care and the holidays. Self Care...taking an active role in one's own health and welfare38% say depression and stress amps up during holidaysReality versus images we may want of the time with familyKnowing your boundaries and what you want Family is Family..Kacey MusgravesLook for common threads in conversationsTake time for yourself...reading, walking, a cup of teaWhere am I this year and what do I need...each year we are in different places emotionallyBe open to surprisesWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly conclude this month of October with quotes and thoughts that have provided inspiration, encouragement, or laughs. "We have an appetite for well expressed words"Maya Angelou...as we learn we can then do betterJoan Chittister...gifts of struggleThich Nhat Hanh quotesBarbara Brown Taylor...you have choices and can impact someone's dayA little fun...its never just a game when you are winning...George CarlinPsalm 139Mark Twain on anger and its affect on usBrave by Sarah BareillesWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly interview Julie Afsahi and Jessica Cross, authors of the book Seasons of Sound, a resource for sound practitioners as well as anyone interested in sound healing and how sounds affect the body. Both Julie and Jessica are leaders and trainers in yoga and sound healing in Austin, Texas area. Creating safe spaces for all people, idea of everything is to destress, unwindA relaxing environment, bring this element to book and train.Felt sense of sound within our bodies, entrainment...sound waves from chimes, gongs, etc meet your body has a physiological response.Sacred sound of Om.Breakdown of the seasons and soundsSilence and pausesYoga is a broad term union and connection. Connection with your higher selfMudras...yoga for your handsBumble bees breath...helps calm the nervous systemRoot chakra sounds can be found on music streaming appsTaking a just a few minutes can help settle, you can make the pause happenSound bath can help quiet the constant thoughtsHow to find a place for sound bathAll the socials!!Get the book on Amazon: Seasons of Soundhttps://seasonsofsoundbook.com/https://www.soulstrongyogatx.com/@soulstrongyogahttps://soundforstress.com/@soundforstressWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!

In this episode of "An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth" Sydney and Kelly continue the theme of Seasons focusing on changes and growth in careers. Spring time...learning and planting seeds in your careerSummer...begin of prime time of career, performerFall...Finding your meaning in your career, mentoringWinter...Experienced and wisdom to shareShifting work modelNetworking when you are ready for changeWhat you want from your workSelf reflectionWork-life balanceWebsite: anincompleteguide.comInstagram: @anincompleteguideYouTube: @AnIncompleteGuidePatreon: patreon.com/AnIncompleteGuidetoPersonalGrowthShout out to Lauren, Jake, Kyle, and Nicole, our Patreon supporters!