Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Blindsided by a Gang

Years ago, when my husband and I were just starting our family, we owned a commercial cleaning company.  We purchased the business in our twenties as a way for my husband to use his Master’s Degree in Business toward something of our own. We worked nights because that’s when companies that needed to be cleaned… Read More Blindsided by a Gang

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Negativity is Trending

Negativity is trending. It always has, really.  It is no surprise that you find interest in the heartbreaks, setbacks, and difficulties of others.  It is interesting.  You can relate to some of it.  You laugh at the ridiculous parts, and hope it never happens to you. Still, what gets through to your thought process will… Read More Negativity is Trending

Uncategorized

My Interview with Martial Arts Nation Podcast

I had the privilege of being interviewed by Martial Arts Nation Podcast recently.  So much has happened since I was last interviewed a year ago, that it was a good time to share all of the news and updates. I’m attaching the link so you can check it out: http://manation.libsyn.com/the-martial-art-woman-interview-2-with-andrea-harkins It’s about my vision, what… Read More My Interview with Martial Arts Nation Podcast

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Stretch Before You Practice

There are some mornings when I wake up tired and in a bad mood.  I know, that’s a terrible way to start the day!  I have to remind myself that for many people I am a source of inspiration and encouragement.  That is how I start to turn the negativity around. I remember that I… Read More Stretch Before You Practice

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Reader

4 Misguided Interpretations of Martial Arts

I frequently talk about the benefits of martial arts.  They are not only a physical exercise, but they promote great mental wellness, too.  In tough times, a martial art mindset can lead you in the right direction. You can win mental battles and increase physical strength at the same time. They empower women, men, and… Read More 4 Misguided Interpretations of Martial Arts

Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Reacting to the Storms of Life with a Martial Art Mindset

    The other day I was driving when I ran into a few storms. I take it for granted that most mornings are dry and dark as I weave my way through a few country roads, then enter the highway and mesh with the oncoming traffic.  It’s not too difficult and not too stressful. … Read More Reacting to the Storms of Life with a Martial Art Mindset

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Philosophy, Reader

Check-In To Your Best Life Ever

Today I checked out of a hotel after a four night stay. The vacation was mostly relaxing, although I did some work along the way, set a few appointments, and finished up a few projects.  Well, that’s me.  I cannot turn off my brain! Being away from home helped, though.  I cut down on the… Read More Check-In To Your Best Life Ever

Karate, Self Defense

Book Review: Mordred’s Victory & Other Martial Mutterings by Jamie Clubb

I just perused Jamie Clubb’s book, “Mordred’s Victory & Other Martial Mutterings.” If you want to read a book that causes you to ponder, question, and investigate the broad variables of martial arts, then Jamie Clubb’s book fits the bill. Don’t expect to agree with everything Jamie says. He is going to shake up some… Read More Book Review: Mordred’s Victory & Other Martial Mutterings by Jamie Clubb

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Learn to Appreciate, Philosophy, Reader

Self-Confidence Trumps Criticism

As an established blogger, I often get asked by new bloggers if they should promote their writing more via social media.  Their first concern is criticism.  Bloggers put themselves out there in the world in a number of different ways.  Their grammar, their ideas, their opinions, their beliefs and their personalities are subject to criticism,… Read More Self-Confidence Trumps Criticism

Decreasing Stress, Encouragement, Karate, Philosophy, Reader

Prioritize, Not Compromise

Someone asked me recently when I was going to start saying “no” to all the different requests that I receive from people to write, review, or help in some way.  He saw that I was starting to feel overwhelmed a little bit and pulled in many directions.  It happens.  I feel as if saying “no”… Read More Prioritize, Not Compromise