Tag: Positive Affirmations

Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma

Tips on Building Self-Confidence

Brandi C

Tips on Building Self-Confidence

5 Tips on Building Self-Confidence

Confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you build. Whether you’re struggling with self-doubt or just need a little boost, here are five simple but powerful ways to grow your self-confidence. Here are Tips on Building Self-Confidence.

1. Look at What You Have Already Achieved

Sometimes, we get so caught up in what we haven’t done that we forget to acknowledge what we have accomplished. Take a moment to reflect on your successes, big or small. Did you finish a challenging project? Overcome a difficult time in your life? Learn a new skill? Reminding yourself of these achievements can help reinforce your belief in your abilities.

2. Set Some Goals

Confidence grows when we have a sense of purpose and direction. Set realistic and achievable goals that push you just outside your comfort zone. Start with small steps—maybe it’s committing to a daily workout, reading a new book, or speaking up in a meeting. As you accomplish these goals, your confidence will naturally increase.

3. Get a Hobby

Doing something you enjoy not only brings happiness but also helps build confidence. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, gardening, or even trying a new sport, hobbies provide an opportunity to master new skills and take pride in what you create. Plus, they serve as a great outlet for stress!

4. Talk Yourself Up

Negative self-talk is one of the biggest confidence killers. Instead of focusing on your flaws, practice positive affirmations. Speak to yourself like you would a friend—kindly and encouragingly. Try saying things like, “I am capable,” “I am strong,” or “I can handle this.” Over time, this shift in mindset will help improve how you see yourself.

5. Think of Things You Are Good At

We all have strengths! Maybe you’re a great listener, an excellent cook, or a natural leader. Make a list of things you’re good at and remind yourself of them often. Lean into these strengths and use them as a foundation for building even more confidence.

Building self-confidence is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and a lot of self-love. Start small, be patient with yourself, and remember—you are already capable of more than you realize! Keep believing in yourself, and your confidence will continue to grow.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

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Circle of Hope Counseling Services, End the Stigma, Faith Journey

Be Kind to Your Mind

Brandi C

circle of hope counseling services (5)

Be Kind to Your Mind

We often hear the phrase be kind to others, but how often do we practice kindness toward ourselves—especially our minds? The way we think, the words we speak to ourselves, and the care we give our mental well-being all matter. Your mind deserves kindness, too.

Life can be overwhelming, and our thoughts can easily become filled with worry, self-doubt, and negativity. But just as we nurture our bodies with food and rest, we must nurture our minds with grace, patience, and care. You are not your mistakes. You are not your struggles and you are worthy of peace.

So how do you show kindness to your mind?

  1. Speak to yourself with love. Replace self-criticism with encouragement. Instead of “I’m failing,” try “I’m learning.” Instead of “I’m not enough,” remind yourself “I am doing my best, and that is enough.”
  2. Take breaks without guilt. Rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Your mind needs time to recharge, just like your body.
  3. Set boundaries. Protect your peace by limiting negativity, whether it’s toxic relationships, social media, or overworking yourself.
  4. Seek help when needed. There is strength in asking for support. Whether through prayer, therapy, or trusted friends, you don’t have to carry everything alone.
  5. Fill your mind with good things. Read, listen, and surround yourself with positivity. What you feed your mind shapes how you feel.

You are worthy of love, including the love you give yourself. So be kind to your mind. Give it rest. Give it grace. And remind yourself daily: you are doing better than you think.

💛 If you’re navigating life’s hard places and need a safe space to heal, grow, or just breathe—Circle of Hope Counseling Services is here for you.

We offer trauma-informed, faith-filled therapy for individuals, couples, and families.

📞 Reach out today to schedule your first session (KY residents only) or learn more: Circle of Hope Counseling Services.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Hope starts here.

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Adoption, Faith Journey

A Priest, A Deaconess, and a Baptist

Brandi C

A Priest, A Deaconess, and a Baptist

A Priest, A Deaconess, and a Baptist

On September 21, 2011, we were working together at the store, and the jokes we wrote were often the highlight of the day.

It was a difficult decision for our family when I decided to return to work. I cried… a lot. I’m someone who thrives on routine, and when that routine is disrupted, it shakes me to my core. Am I controlling? Maybe. But I’ve always known that I like things a certain way, and change is something I tend to resist.

My whole world changed.

My kids went back to public school, while my oldest continued being homeschooled. It felt like everything was upside down. But I was grateful when I got my job. The woman who trained me was the slowest I’ve ever met, but she was kind, genuine, and stable.

When I was assigned my department, I met a gentleman who stood out to me—his regal demeanor, kind eyes, and radio-worthy voice immediately caught my attention. I wanted to know who he was because he worked in my department, and at that point, I needed all the help I could get.

The Priest

I introduced myself and learned that he was attending school to become a deacon in his church. Honestly, I didn’t even know there was a school for deacons, so I was immediately intrigued. I asked him questions like, “What’s up with the Pope? Why do you kneel and stand so much? Can you explain the hierarchy of the church?” He answered every question with patience and understanding, never making me feel ignorant. It was clear to me that he deeply loved both God and Jesus.

He became a blessing in my life. He would often see when I was having a rough day and would encourage me to stay busy and keep moving forward. Sometimes, when things were particularly tough, he would give me a hug. Once, after a difficult day, he handed me a beautiful rosary, saying, “This means more to me than anything, and I’m giving it to you for peace.” He explained the prayers that accompany the rosary, and it encouraged me to pray more. He also took time to pray over me at work and sent me emails with prayers. This man has truly been a precious soul in my life.

The Deaconess

Now, onto the Deaconess. She hadn’t been working with us long, but she quickly became someone I admired. She is a small, fiery woman, completely in love with the Lord and her family. To her, working at our job wasn’t just about earning a paycheck—it was a mission from God. She saw every opportunity to witness and share her faith. This lady exuded grace, dignity, and love, and she was always there to encourage, protect, and listen.

She wasn’t shy about expressing her faith. There were times when, with customers waiting, she laid hands on me and prayed over me. She has held me as I cried and cried with me, often reminding me, ‘Speak it into existence. Whatever you want, claim it. Speak positively—don’t let negativity slip out.” I have to be careful now, because I can almost hear her telling me to stop expressing negative thoughts.

Be positive. Wait on God.

I’ve been learning, through the trials of adoption, that it’s okay to cry, be upset, and talk about my feelings. I’m someone who tends to keep things inside because I don’t want to burden others or seem like I’m always complaining. But with my Deaconess, Priest, and my Wednesday night girls, I’ve found a support system full of love, prayers, and understanding. And let me tell you, I’ve needed it, especially this year.

Our Trial is Almost Over

Our adoption journey is nearing its end. I am confident that God will bring my child home before the year is up. Also,  I’m speaking that out in the name of Jesus. I am so thankful for the people He is bringing into my life during this difficult time. He has blessed me with a strong family of faith, a supportive church family, and coworkers who have prayed for me, encouraged me, and walked beside me through it all.

My daughter reminded me by texting, ‘Mom, I love you, and remember to CLAIM IT,’ that God is working in our lives. He’s showing us His grace and mercy through this challenging year.

A Priest, A Deaconess, and a Baptist

As the year comes to an end, I’m choosing to believe that my son will be home by next month. The people I’ve met along this journey—my Priest and my Deaconess will forever be a part of my child’s story. My Priest has seen me through some of the darkest moments. He has done so by praying for me while we folded jeans at JC Penney’s.

I am beyond thankful that God placed these people in my path. They have loved, supported, and encouraged me more than I could ever have imagined.

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