A Beautiful Reset for the Week

Ah, Mondays! Don’t you just love them? They arrive brimming with energy, charm, and the promise of a fresh start. For me, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the sight of a glowing amber-yellow sunrise around 6:48 AM these days. It’s as though the universe has pressed ‘refresh’ on life, with the Almighty reminding us of His magnificent ability to alternate His creations. All praise is to Him!

After a restful Sunday, I was ready to embrace Monday with open arms. While others may view it as the most dreaded day of the week, I see it as an opportunity to lay the foundation for a fantastic working week. My morning routine began with something sacred to me: tending to my beloved plants.

Talking to My Plants: Affirmations and Blossoms

Now, let me confess something quirky: I talk to my plants. Yes, you heard that right! As I moved them to their favorite sunny spot, I couldn’t help but whisper sweet affirmations. “You’re loved, you’re cherished, and you’re destined to bloom with gratitude and peace,” I told them. And yes, I kissed them too. Don’t laugh! It’s all part of the process.

Plants, like people, thrive on love and attention. I like to think they respond to my kindness with their vibrant greens and occasional blossoms. Surely, I can’t be the only one who connects with plants on this level, can I? If they could talk, they’d probably call me their ‘Plant Whisperer.’

A Morning Commute and a Lesson in Self-Control

With my plants basking in the sunlight, I stepped out to tackle the day. A quick prayer gave me the boost I needed as I hopped into a car for my commute. But just as I was settling in, drama unfolded.

One passenger handed the driver ₦100 as payment, but it wasn’t the correct fare. The driver protested, explaining that fares had changed, and it was unfair for the passenger to impose his own terms. Instead of apologizing, the passenger insisted he was in the right, his tone dripping with arrogance.

The driver, clearly upset, almost let his temper get the best of him. But with some gentle pleading from the other passengers, he managed to control himself and let it go. Witnessing this, I couldn’t help but admire the power of self-control. Anger is such a fleeting emotion, yet it can cause lasting damage if we don’t handle it well.

A Visit to Barr. Patience: Mentorship and Discipline

Once I arrived at work, I realized I needed to see Barr. Patience, a woman I deeply admire. She’s more than just a mentor to me; she’s like a big sister always elegant, ever smiling, yet firm when needed. Let me tell you, if she disciplines you, your mind go dey. She’s the kind of person who demands excellence and will not accept anything less.

Unfortunately, I was running late, and she wasn’t having it. “Just leave,” she said, her tone sharp and final. Ah, wahala ti dey o! My heart sank, and before I knew it, tears welled up in my eyes. Thankfully, Mrs. Stella, another colleague, intervened and smoothed things over. It was a tense moment, but it reminded me of how much I respect Barr. Patience. Her discipline, while sometimes tough to handle, is always rooted in her desire to see me succeed.

A Test of Emotional Intelligence at Work

Back at the office, the day was in full swing. One of my colleagues was handling a client when I joined the discussion. The client seemed stuck on an issue, and another colleague tried to explain, only to be ignored. I stepped in, asking the client to listen to my colleague’s explanation, as he was in charge of that area.

To my surprise, my intervention wasn’t well received. The colleague felt dismissed and decided to make a scene. Now, the old me might have snapped back, but I chose to pray silently instead. I ignored the drama and focused on my work, determined not to let the negativity ruin my day.

This incident made me grateful for my ability to control my anger, my emotional intelligence, and my empathy. It’s so easy to react to people’s words and actions, but I’ve learned to look beyond them. More often than not, their behavior is a reflection of their inner struggles.

Reflections on Empathy and Mental Well-Being

This brings me to a crucial point: how often do we check in with ourselves? People are fighting silent battles every day, and their frustrations often spill over into their interactions with others. 

Here are some quick questions to ask yourself:

1. How are you feeling today?

2. Is there something bothering you that you need to talk about?

3. How are your health and finances?

If you’re struggling, it’s okay to seek help. Talk to someone you trust, or get an accountability partner to help you stay on track. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish it’s essential.

Ending the Day with a Bundle of Joy

As the day wound down, I made a quick visit to a friend who had just given birth. Seeing that little bundle of joy was the highlight of my day. Her tiny fingers, her peaceful face she was pure magic.

I prayed for her to grow in good health, wisdom, and divine protection. The visit reminded me of the beauty of new beginnings and the joy that comes from celebrating life’s precious moments.

Gratitude for the Day

Reflecting on my day, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude:

I’m grateful for controlling my anger.

I’m grateful for my emotional intelligence.

I’m grateful for having empathy and compassion for myself and others.

I’m grateful for mentors like Barr. Patience, who push me to be my best.

I’m grateful for the gift of new life and the joy it brings.

A Call to Action

As you step into this week, I encourage you to be kind to yourself first. When you treat yourself with love and understanding, it becomes easier to extend that kindness to others. Take a moment to check in with yourself. Is there something you need to address? If so, take action today.

And remember: life is too short to hold onto anger or resentment. Practice self-control, nurture your emotional intelligence, and celebrate the little moments that make life beautiful.

Have an amazing and productive week ahead!