Live Fully. Keep Your Word. Have No Regrets.

Live Fully. Keep Your Word. Have No Regrets.

by | May 29, 2025 | Celebrate, Invest in Yourself, Self-Care

My husband, Donald lived his life with no regrets—and that’s exactly how I’m trying to live mine. He didn’t wait for the “right time” or the perfect moment. He lived fully, boldly, and with intention. That spirit has stayed with me, pushing me to stop waiting for life to happen and instead, to go out and live it.

Someone recently asked me, “What is it that you want to do?” My answer came quickly: “I either did it already, or I’m currently doing it.” That’s the kind of life I want to lead—one where I don’t look back with what-ifs, but look forward with purpose.

Live Fully. Keep Your Word. Have No Regrets.

Life is unpredictable. One moment you’re making plans, and the next, everything shifts. The people you love, the opportunities you dream about, even your own sense of time—it can all change in an instant.

That’s why living life to the fullest isn’t just about chasing adventure or chasing success. It’s about showing up fully, honoring your word, and creating a life you can look back on without regret.

 

Whether it’s finally going after your dreams, telling someone how much they mean to you, or simply following through on a promise you made to yourself—it all matters.

Here’s how to live more intentionally, and why it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself and for the people you love.

 

Why This Matters: The Power of No Regrets

When people see you handling hard things, they may see grace, composure, or calm. But what they don’t always see are the sleepless nights, the private breakdowns, the internal battles, or the small but brave decisions you make every day just to keep going.

 

Being strong doesn’t mean pretending you’re fine. It means you’re still choosing to move forward—even if it’s slowly.

 

But to truly navigate life’s curveballs, strength alone isn’t enough. You need flexibility.

 

Flexibility: The Superpower of Survival

When you lose someone close to you, you start seeing life through a sharper lens. You think about the things unsaid, the plans postponed, the chances not taken. And if you’re not careful, that grief can carry the weight of “I wish I had…”

 

But when you live with intention—when you do what you say you’re going to do, when you show up, speak your truth, and take action—you strip regret of its power.

 

Here’s what living with no regrets gives you:

  • Peace of Mind – You know you showed up fully, loved deeply, and meant what you said.
  • Emotional Freedom – You’re not trapped in guilt or “what ifs.” You lived honestly and courageously.
  • Stronger Legacy – The people around you remember your example—not just your words, but your actions.

 

7 Steps to Living Life to the Fullest and Following Through

1. Know What Matters to You
Get clear on your values. What kind of life do you want to live? What relationships matter most? What dreams keep tugging at you? When you know your “why,” it’s easier to say yes to what matters—and no to what doesn’t.

 

2. Keep Promises—Especially to Yourself
Start treating the promises you make to yourself like they matter. Because they do. Want to take that trip? Write that book? Get healthier? Start today. The more you follow through, the more trust and momentum you build.

 

3. Tell People You Love Them
Don’t wait. Send the text. Make the call. Say the thing. We often assume we have more time, but the truth is, we never really know. Don’t let love go unspoken.

 

4. Be Where Your Feet Are
Stop rushing through life. Be present. Whether it’s coffee with a friend, playing with your kid, or watching a sunset—soak it in. These moments become the memories you hold onto most.

 

5. Say No Without Guilt
A full life doesn’t mean a busy life. Say no to what drains you so you can say yes to what fuels you. Protect your time and energy like they’re sacred—because they are.

 

6. Let Go of Perfection
Regret doesn’t come from failing—it comes from never trying. Stop waiting to have everything figured out. Take the leap, even if it’s messy. Courage beats perfection every time.

 

7. Live Like It’s Temporary—Because It Is
This isn’t about fear. It’s about urgency. If you knew your time was limited (and it is), how would you spend it? Who would you spend it with? What would you finally do?

 

Final Thoughts

Losing someone close reminds us just how fragile and sacred life really is. But it also offers a powerful invitation: to live more fully, more honestly, and more bravely.

So keep your word. Say what matters. Do what sets your soul on fire.

Because when your time comes to reflect, you won’t be thinking about the things you had—you’ll be thinking about the love you gave, the moments you lived, and the promises you kept.

No regrets. Just a life well lived.

Let me know your thoughts by emailing me.

 

Your Partner in Change,

Marsha

You’re So Strong

You’re So Strong

by | May 7, 2025 | Celebrate, Goal Setting, Invest in Yourself, Self-Care

People have told me, “You’re so strong.” And while I appreciate the sentiment, I’ve come to understand that strength isn’t always about standing tall—it’s often about bending without breaking. For the past year, many of you know I’ve been a caregiver for my husband of over 40 years. Being strong has meant being flexible, showing up each day, and doing what needs to be done—no matter how heavy the load feels.

Support has taken many shapes—a phone call, a handwritten note, a quiet presence. Each gesture has meant more than words can say. What I’ve learned most through this season is that true connection doesn’t come from assuming what someone needs—it comes from simply reaching out.

 “You’re So Strong”:
What People Don’t Always See Behind the Strength

There’s something people say when life knocks you off your feet and you manage to keep going:

“You’re so strong.”

It’s meant as a compliment. And sometimes, it’s comforting. Other times,it feels like a quiet pressure to hold it all together, to keep showing up even when you’re exhausted, grieving, overwhelmed, or unsure of what’s next.

But here’s the truth: strength isn’t just about powering through. It’sa bout adapting. It’s about bending without breaking. It’s about getting back up—differently—every single time life changes the rules.

And that takes flexibility. That takes resilience.

The Hidden Layers of Strength

When people see you handling hard things, they may see grace, composure, or calm. But what they don’t always see are the sleepless nights, the private breakdowns, the internal battles, or the small but brave decisions you make every day just to keep going.

Being strong doesn’t mean pretending you’re fine. It means you’re still choosing to move forward—even if it’s slowly.

But to truly navigate life’s curveballs, strength alone isn’t enough. You need flexibility.

 

Flexibility: The Superpower of Survival

Flexibility is what allows you to pivot when life doesn’t go according to plan.

  • It’s choosing a new dream when the old one no longer fits.
  • It’s making peace with uncertainty instead of trying to control everything.
  • It’s learning to adjust instead of giving up.

Life will shift—loss, illness, divorce, career changes, aging parents, unexpected bills, even dreams that don’t pan out. And the people who survive and thrive aren’t necessarily the strongest. They’re the ones who stay open. Open to change. Open to growth. Open to rewriting the plan.

Resilience: What Carries You Forward

Resilience is that quiet force that tells you, “This is hard, but I can do hard things.”

It’s the voice that reminds you you’ve survived before—and you’ll do it again.

 

But resilience isn’t just about bouncing back. Sometimes, it’s about bouncing forward—into a new version of yourself, into a new life you didn’t expect but are now brave enough to build.

How to Stay Flexible and Resilient Through Life’s Toughest Moments

1.Let Go of the Timeline – Life doesn’t always unfold the way you planned. That’s not failure—it’s being human. Give yourself permission to take detours.

2. Feel What You Feel – True strength is not numbness. Cry. Grieve. Rage. Sit in the mess. Emotions aren’t weaknesses; they’re part of healing.

3. Adjust Your Expectations – Sometimes, just getting through the day is enough. Give yourself grace to redefine what “success” looks like during hard seasons.

4. Lean on Your People – Strength doesn’t mean doing it alone. Ask for help. Share your truth. Let others carry you when you’re tired.

5. Stay Curious – Instead of asking “Why me?”, try asking “What now?” or “What is this trying to teach me?” It shifts your mindset from victim to empowered 

6. Celebrate Your Flexibility – Every time you adapt, grow, or try again—that’s a win. Honor that. That’s what being truly strong looks like.

Final Thoughts

So yes, you’re strong—but maybe not in the way people always mean. You’re strong because you keep showing up. Because you bend when life demands it. Because you allow yourself to be soft, too. And because you’re willing to grow through the pain—not just survive it. 

True strength is flexible. Real resilience is soft in places. And the people who make it through? They don’t always do it alone, and they don’t always do it perfectly. But they keep going anyway.

So if life is shifting underneath your feet right now, take a deep breath. Adjust your footing. You’ve done hard things before—and you’ll do them again. Not because you have to be strong for everyone, but because you’ve learned how to move with the storm instead of fighting it.

And that? That’s powerful.

What routines or habits do you use to stay flexible and resilient? Email me and let me know.

 

Your Partner in Change,

Marsha

 

The Power of Feedback: Fuel for Career Growth and Personal Development

The Power of Feedback: Fuel for Career Growth and Personal Development

by | Nov 11, 2024 | Invest in Yourself, Self-Care

As we navigate our professional and personal journeys, pivoting and growing our skills is an essential part of our career journey. One element that we often take for granted is asking for and accepting feedback. Whether it comes from a colleague, a mentor, a friend, or a family member, feedback plays an invaluable role in our growth and development. Here’s why embracing feedback can be a game-changer for your career and life.

1. Enhances Self-Awareness

Feedback provides an external perspective on our actions and behaviors. It sheds light on our strengths and areas for improvement that we might not notice ourselves. This heightened self-awareness is the first step towards meaningful personal growth and career advancement.

2. Promotes Continuous Learning

In the fast-paced world we live in, continuous learning is essential. Feedback is a powerful tool that helps us stay on track with our development goals. By understanding what works and what doesn’t, we can adapt and evolve, ensuring we remain competitive and effective in our roles. It also reminds us of those skills and accomplishments that we may take for granted.

3. Strengthens Relationships

Asking for and accepting feedback demonstrates humility and a willingness to improve. This can foster stronger relationships, both personally and professionally. When people see that you value their input, they are more likely to respect and support you.

4. Boosts Performance

Constructive feedback provides clear guidance on how to enhance performance. Whether it’s a new strategy at work or a different approach in your personal life, feedback can help you refine your actions and achieve better/different outcomes. Over time, this can lead to significant improvements and successes.

5. Encourages Accountability

Receiving feedback holds us accountable for our actions and decisions. It encourages us to take responsibility and make necessary adjustments. This accountability is crucial for personal integrity and professional reliability.

6. Fosters Resilience

Feedback, especially constructive criticism, can be challenging to hear. However, learning to accept and act on feedback builds resilience. It teaches us to handle criticism gracefully and use it as a stepping stone rather than a setback.

7. Facilitates Goal Setting

Feedback can help us set realistic and achievable goals. By understanding where we currently stand and what we need to work on, we can set clear, targeted goals for improvement. This focused approach increases our chances of success.

 

Ultimately, feedback is not just a tool for professional development; it’s a cornerstone of personal growth as well. Embrace it with an open mind and a positive attitude, and you’ll find it to be one of the most valuable resources in your journey towards success.

 

Let’s make feedback a regular part of our routine and watch how it transforms our careers and lives!

Your Partner in Change,

Marsha Haygood

Life is Full of Changes both Big and Small

Life is Full of Changes both Big and Small

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Invest in Yourself, Self-Care

Life is full of changes both big and small. Many are expected, but some catch us completely by surprise causing us to shift our plans.

Make a Plan

Personal Changes

  • Designate a specific time of year to review and update your personal information – your passwords, budget, credit rating, etc.
  • Check to ensure your important documents are up to date and in a secure location- your Will, life insurance, health documents, deed, licenses, etc
  • Make appointments for medical follow-ups, etc.

Professional Changes

  • Update/refresh your resume, bio, headshot and social profiles
  • Reqest recommendations, references and testimonials for your accomplishments
  • Review trends in your company and industry that can positively or negatively affect you
  • Connect /Reconnect with friends and current and former associates to check in on them and catch up (without asking for anything)

Don’t consider these things a chore. Embrace the idea that you can learn and grow from every experience.

Review and acknowledge your current support system.

Ask those who have helped you along the way how you might support them.

Remember, a simple “Thank You” never goes out of style!

I would love to hear your thoughts on this and other ways to consider preparing for known and unexpected changes.

Let’s help each other win. 

Happy Summer!

 

Your Partner in Change,

Marsha Haygood

You Are Enough

You Are Enough

by | Nov 25, 2023 | Self-Care

Living a good life requires you learning to love yourself and care for yourself without guilt!

As a priority, you must move away from toxic situations and negative people so that you can pursue higher goals and a more fulfilled life.

You cannot undo past negative experiences but you can commit today to making positive life changes that add to your happiness and bring you joy.

You deserve a happy and successful life and how you treat yourself is an investment in your future!

Take time to treat yourself to the things you enjoy. Sometimes that may be with family and friends. Sometimes being alone is just fine.

Practice communicating your needs, desires and the boundaries you set.

Remember that “No” is a complete sentence and usually does not require further explanation.

Prioritize your health and self-care.

You Are Enough and you deserve all the best that life has to offer!

Clear Your Mental Clutter

Clear Your Mental Clutter

by | Oct 26, 2023 | Self-Care

I don’t know about you but I am constantly bombarded with distractions

throughout the day – Emails, social media posts, phone calls and requests for

information and your time.

 

When you take time to respond to these requests, you may find that at the end of

the day, you have not gotten much completed. You end up being tired, burned

out and unfulfilled with a never-ending To-Do list.

 

I wish I could tell you how to fully eliminate all the distractions but I must admit I

am still a work in progress. However, I am proud to say that I continue to get

better and I am happy to share some of the tactics I continue to use to

successfully move forward.’’

 

  • Schedule a dedicated time to declutter your workspace- I put everything in one big pile and then decide what to file, scan, shred, etc. I also use different color labels and markers for my folders. You need to decide what will work best for you and then be consistent.

 

  • Review your to-do list and calendar the night before and note 1-3 priorities as “must-do” items for the next day. Doing this gives you a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day.

 

  • No emails, phone chats or social media in the morning before starting on the priorities you have set, unless there is an emergency.

 

  • Turn your phone off or put it on silent at a set time every night and let people know that you are unavailable after that time – set clear boundaries.

 

  • Schedule 1 or 2 “reflection/clarity breaks. At least (1) 15-minute break in the morning and the same in the afternoon and move away from stressful demands and negative people during that time (give yourself time to think).

 

  • Break large task into smaller manageable parts so that they are less overwhelming.

 

  • When possible, delegate smaller task to others (this might include your children when you work from home)

 

  • If you are a techie, (I am not) look for tech tools that can be helpful.
    -To Do List Tool/Organizer: Asana
    -Meditation: Headspace
    -Productivity/Time Management: Pomodoro Technique
    -Notetaking: ReMarkable (or research other digital notebooks)

 

These are just a few tips to try. I welcome you sharing other ideas to help us all

#MoveForwardwithPurpose

You’re Invited!

To help you Move Forward with Purpose, join me on Saturday, Nov. 4th at 10:30 am EST as we strategize on adapting to change and how to best prepare for growth and opportunity in the new year.

 

Your Partner in Change,

-Marsha