I am thankful that I have a job, especially when I look around me and see that others struggle to find worthwhile employment.

I take satisfaction in the fact that my bills are paid and that I even have a little bit of spending money. I am fortunate to have the stability of a guaranteed paycheck.

In my personal life, I actively work towards minimizing my living expenses. I do this because it comforts me to know that my family has a financial cushion to fall back on, in preparation for anything that might go wrong.

I choose to switch to the basic cable package, make frugal choices when shopping for groceries, and ditch pricey cellular phone plans in favor of prepaid phones. I choose to make wise choices with my money in favor of the peace of mind that comes with having money left over.

Each morning, I head into work with a positive mindset and an upbeat attitude. My personal situations are left at home, because I am 100% committed to giving my full effort to my employer. My employer is the reason I am able to provide a cozy home for my family.

I am an asset to my company. I am educated, experienced, and tactical. I also devote myself to increasing the success of my employer.

Today, I count my many blessings. I am grateful for my work and feel proud that I have the ability to sustain a nice quality of life for my family.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Will furthering my education increase my job security?

2. Do I truly give my employer my best effort every day?

3. How can I become more of an asset to my company?

As a person with a valuable opinion, I feel like it is my duty to get my point across. However, I realize that, in many situations, it is best to simply bite my tongue and express my opinion at a later time, if at all.

Generally, if the situation can take its course without the expression of my concern, I opt to mind my own business.

Over the years, I have learned that most situations work themselves out just fine without the injections of extraneous opinions. I prefer to position myself out of the line of fire, because the messenger is generally the one that gets burned.

When I have only a negative opinion to share, I keep my opinion to myself. Of course, if expressing my concern will directly help another person, I tactfully say my piece and try to get my point across in a productive manner that affects the situation in a positive way.

If I am able to mend a broken circumstance, I consider it an opportune time to express my concern.

I find that the best way to assess whether it is an opportune time to express my concern is to put myself in the other person's shoes. I only proceed to share my concern if I feel that it can result in a constructive outcome.

Today, I assess whether I express my concern to be helpful or to simply be "in the loop." My new motto about speaking up is, "When in doubt, go without."

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I make it a point to deliver criticism gently?
2. Does expressing my concern cause conflict within my friendships?
3. Is it necessary to express my opinion in all situations, or should I be more selective?

Though my pregnancy comes with an abundance of challenges, it is certainly a joyous and beautiful journey.

I embrace the pains throughout my entire body, morning sickness and sensitivity to smell. Though I certainly would rather go without these nuisances, simply thinking about the reward that awaits me at the end of my pregnancy makes every hour of discomfort worth every second.

I understand that my body is currently adjusting to the physical changes of carrying a human life. All of my pregnancy symptoms are normal, perfectly healthy and eventually subside throughout the day.

I look forward to the time, in just a few short months, when I can hold my bundle of joy in my arms. The challenges of my pregnancy pale in comparison to the sense of fulfillment I feel when I celebrate my first Mother's Day!

Anything worth having is worth working for. I believe this to be true with my pregnancy.

Today, I stare in amazement as my body continues to astonish me with its strength and adaptability. My dream of becoming a mother is finally coming true. And I cherish every second that my unborn child resides within me.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Have I consulted my physician about developing an exercise routine to minimize my discomfort?
2. Do I make a conscious effort to consume healthy foods throughout my pregnancy?
3. Have I adapted my lifestyle to better fit the demands of my pregnancy?

I welcome my responsibilities with joy because I view them as a badge of honor rather than a burden. Only people that have attained some level of success are granted responsibilities.

I live an abundant and joyous lifestyle.

I come home to a beautifully decorated house. I drive a safe and comfortable car. And I indulge in regular shopping trips and exquisite dinners out with friends.

I would be a fool to expect to live such a high quality of life without some level of responsibility in return. I am aware that everything worthwhile comes at a cost.

A large part of my responsibilities come in the form of financial commitments, such as paying my mortgage, car payments, health insurance, and more.

While writing checks to cover the bills, I feel a sense of empowerment because I pay these bills out of my own pocket.

I take pride in having such a great career that allows me to comfortably sustain my quality of life.

I also have other responsibilities besides financial ones. For example, I volunteer to coach the local little league team, visit my parents and maintain the cleanliness of my home.

Staying on top of my game makes me feel useful and successful.

Today, I welcome my responsibilities with ease. I realize that, in order to maintain my lifestyle, I must hold myself accountable for ensuring that my responsibilities are taken care of.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. What steps can I take to ensure that I pay my bills on time?
2. Am I able to hold myself accountable for my results, or lack thereof?
3. Which bills can I setup automatic payments for? Does this option appeal to me?

Morning and night, success is on my mind. Even when I am off the clock, I am mindful of my actions and act responsibly at all times in order to avoid hindering my advancement.

I go to bed at a reasonable hour the night before work. I arrive at the office early. I go above and beyond when completing projects. I actively seek more responsibility in my position and demonstrate to my supervisor that I deserve a promotion.

Clearly, I have tunnel vision toward my objective. Diversions are no match for my innate focus.

My desire to succeed is a hunger inside of me. Thankfully, due to my hard work, I am beginning to enjoy the fruits of my labor.

I am aware that many of the most successful businessmen in the world began their careers at the very bottom. Therefore, I am slowly climbing my way up the ladder, one step at a time.

My strong work ethic, persistence, and drive for success are my secret weapons.

These characteristics are often listed on resumes. But, unlike many of my colleagues, I walk the walk that my resume speaks of.

Today, I keep my eye on the prize. I visualize myself at the top, certain that I am well on the road to success.

Self-reflection Questions:

1. What actions am I taking today to ensure my career success?
2. Do I over-deliver with each assignment, or do I do the bare minimum?
3. Will attaining a certification or degree further my career?

Because I am free from my dependency on caffeine, I feel renewed energy. I am now able to enjoy the beauty of each day without the turbulent effect caffeine has on my nervous system.

Sure, caffeine provides me with an instant energy boost. However, I pay for that instant gratification many times over throughout the rest of the day. Instead, I choose to fuel my body with food and drinks that provide lasting energy and health.

Within just a few short hours of my caffeine jolt, my energy levels drop dramatically, I experience painful headaches and I am jumpy and paranoid. Considering that caffeine causes so much harm to my body, I choose to forgo it completely.

Of course, I certainly can indulge in a cup of coffee every now and then if I crave the taste, but my indulgence is strictly an optional leisure, rather than a necessity to move forward with my day. When I do, often times I opt for a decaffeinated cup of coffee.

Now that I am caffeine free, my energy comes from the proper amount of sleep. I now realize that my health is my most important obligation. And, ridding myself of caffeine and making sleep a priority are the necessary first steps to leading a balanced lifestyle.

Today, I marvel at my ability to carry myself throughout the day without caffeine. The corporate world is dependent on this socially acceptable drug. However, I choose to take my health seriously and ban caffeine from my daily intake.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I drink coffee simply to be social with others?
2. How can I increase my energy without reaching for the coffee maker?
3. Have I noticed any negative effects in my body since becoming dependent on caffeine?

My community plays a big part in my life and I jump at the opportunity to give back each chance I get.

My family and I take part in community functions, such as the Sunday pancake breakfast and the yearly Easter egg hunt for the children.

Though it may seem trivial to outsiders, these events are at the core of our community.

I strongly believe that a neighborhood is only as good as its residents. And I am proud to say that I am setting an honorable example.

I organize fundraisers for our local schools. This money is put towards providing the neighborhood children with a better education. Therefore, I feel that it is a necessary task and I plan on continuing my efforts for years to come.

I understand that the involvement of the next generation will determine what our town will be like 30 years from now. So, it is important to instill a strong sense of community in them from their youth.

Giving back to my community gives me a sense of pride. It makes me feel as if I am where I belong, doing what I am supposed to do. My town is more than a small dot on a map; it is the place my family calls home.

It is my responsibility to contribute to keeping this community thriving for years to come. One person can truly make a difference, and right now that person is me!

Today, I reach out to my community. I choose to be active in my community and make a difference. I encourage others to do their part in making our community one that we can be proud of.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Do I regularly volunteer my time in the community?
2. Which events can I take charge of organizing?
3. Do I plan on staying in this neighborhood for years to come?

Knowledge truly is power. For this reason, I make it a priority to learn something new each day. Due to my efforts, I am a wealth of useful information.

I interact with new people on my commute to work and in line at the bank. I choose to make small talk with customer service agents and telemarketers on the phone. I recognize that everyone has something valuable to teach me. I actively reach out and make new acquaintances to learn about other towns, cultures, and even company secrets.

While most of my friends are watching reality television shows, I choose to stay informed by watching the news. Just one hour of news each night makes me the go-to source for current events in my social circle. I choose to watch television programs that are educational and informative, making the most of my time in front of the screen.

Reading is an important part of my life. I make it a point to read an abundance of self-help, history, and how-to books.

Of course, it takes me several days to read a single book. However, by the end of the week I often have a new skill. And, I have valuable information to offer to others when they need it.

Today, I tap all resources of information that can help me learn something new. The world around me is the best educational institution in the world. Every personal encounter and experience offers something new to learn.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Am I comfortable making small talk with complete strangers?
2. How can I become more aware of my local news?
3. How can I make the time to take a class that teaches a skill I am interested in?

I am currently on a mission to decrease my debt. Each day, I challenge myself to minimize my spending so I can apply my expendable income towards paying down my dues.

I make wise spending decisions and only spend what I can afford. Every month, I have less debt owed than the month before.

Credit card purchases are a thing of the past. My only active “charge card” is my debit card. Due to my efforts, I am successfully decreasing my credit card debt.

I am happy to make financial sacrifices every day that support the dreams I have for my life.

I buy the store brand when grocery shopping, and I utilize coupons. I settle for the basic cable package rather than the expensive plan with all the channels I don’t watch anyway. And I let go of the need to splurge on personal items.

I feel more satisfied than ever because I know my money is better spent going towards my outstanding balances. I pamper myself by paying down debt, rather than buying worthless trinkets for myself.

I am helping myself by decreasing my debt, and I am creating a better future for my family.

I write checks for substantially more than the minimum amount due when paying my mortgage, credit cards, and student loans. And, when I receive my yearly tax refund, I apply the money toward paying down my debt.

Today, I write my checks with joy. I am disciplined and determined to decrease my debt. I am already reaping the emotional and financial benefits of unloading this weight off of my shoulders.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. In which areas can I afford to minimize my spending?
2. How do I visualize my life when I am fully debt-free?
3. Am I comfortable hiring a financial planner to assist me on my journey?

In the realm of parenting, each day is a learning experience. Every day, I learn so much about both my baby and myself.

I am happy to adjust to the new sleeping patterns that are required as a new parent. I look forward to meeting my baby’s needs and cherishing every moment we have together. Every sacrifice is worth it for the joy that my new baby brings.

My nights are spent nursing my baby back to sleep. And, daytime naps are far shorter than I would like. Nevertheless, this is all in the day of the life of a new parent, and it is all worth it.

While my friends and family may offer me advice on effective parenting, I choose my own path to success. I learn from experience what my baby needs and respond accordingly. Every child is different, and therefore every parenting situation is different. I choose to keep a positive outlook and enjoy the journey.

I firmly believe that all babies should be allowed to develop their own personalities and routines. Therefore I refrain from hurling my unrealistic expectations onto my baby.

As a new parent, I sometimes make mistakes. I choose to learn from my mistakes, and I let go of the need to be perfect. The most important part of being a good parent is to love my baby and give him my best. I do this every moment of every day.

Today, I give myself permission to learn the ropes as I go. I understand that parenting is a skill that I develop over time. I continue to learn from each new experience, and my parenting skills are improving every day.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1. Am I too judgmental when it comes to being a “good” parent?
2. Do I allow the opinions of others to interfere with my preferred methods of parenting?
3. Do my spouse and I equally share the responsibility of caring for our child?