
Hosted by Kristianne Wargo · EN

We live in a culture obsessed with attention, status, and instant validation. Social media magnifies this by turning likes, hearts, and followers into currency, especially for kids growing up right now. So how do we as parents model humility when the noise around us screams, "Look at me!"? It's all about teaching kids humility in a self-centered world. And when you think about humility, what does that even look like inside the family? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com First, humility isn't about pretending to be less than you are. It's about owning your strengths without bragging, owning your weaknesses without shame, and valuing others as much as yourself. This mindset can feel like swimming upstream in a world that rewards self-promotion, but that's exactly why it's critical. Here's what humility looks like in the family structure: Parents admit when they're wrong or don't have all the answers. This shows kids that vulnerability isn't weakness. Everyone takes turns listening; no one dominates the conversation. Respecting others' voices comes before being heard. Gratitude is a daily practice, not an afterthought. Saying thanks—even for small things—grounds kids in reality rather than entitlement. Now, let's consider social media and the viral chase. When your child asks why people care so much about likes or going viral, don't just lecture or ban the platforms. Instead, have real conversations: "Getting likes feels good, but it's temporary and can't replace who you really are. Your worth isn't determined by a number on a screen." Ask questions like, "How does it feel when you post and don't get the response you hoped for? What do you think matters more—being popular, or being kind and true to yourself?" Because the pressure kids face—from peers, influencers, and the world—is real. That's why parents need to embed humility as non-negotiable early on. The K.I.S.S. ~ Humility is a non-negotiable! You must consider this in raising your kids and continuing the conversations years to come as they grow older. Here are three solid ways to teach humility that every parent can do today: Model Humility Loud and Clear Don't just say the word, live it out. Admit mistakes publicly in front of your kids. Apologize when you mess up. Show that no one is perfect, but everyone is worth respect. Shift the Focus From "Me" to "We" Create family rituals that encourage serving others—volunteering, helping a neighbor, or just listening to a sibling. Teach kids that their value increases when they contribute, not compete. Celebrate Character Over Accomplishments Sure, grades and trophies matter. But make it crystal clear you're more impressed by kindness, honesty, and effort. Reward humble behavior, not just wins. Humility isn't a soft skill—it's a strong foundation for resilience, empathy, and real confidence. As much as the world pushes kids to chase validation, you have the power to root them in something deeper. Start that work today, and you'll raise a generation who knows their worth isn't up for likes or hearts, but earned in quiet strength. If you want your kids to succeed in this noisy, self-driven world, then teach them to pause, listen, and lead with humility. That's the living legacy that outlasts any viral moment. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Life's whirlwind can make your current circumstances feel like a cage. Maybe you're stuck in a job that drains you, carrying the weight of past mistakes, or overwhelmed by what feels like an impossible mountain ahead. You are made for more. Not by chance, not by accident, but on purpose and for a purpose that's bigger than any setback or trial trying to hold you back. Embrace your place. None of your circumstances or situations defines you. Your worth, your future, your purpose — they're not dictated by where you are, but by who you are and who you are becoming. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com When you embrace your place, you are claiming the life you're in; owning your story without shame or fear, and using this moment as your battlefield, not your prison. When fear whispers that you're not enough, not good enough, or your past failures want to chain you to the ground, remind yourself: you get to rise! You get to show up, filled with whatever you have today, even if it's just a sliver of courage. Joy and strength don't come from perfect circumstances; they come from faith in what God is doing behind the scenes when the world seems chaotic. When you have no control, God is always in control. The K.I.S.S. ~Embrace your place! Yes, life is messy. Sometimes you just want to hide under the covers and block out the calling on your life. I get it — I've been there too. But when you're called for more, you don't have to do it perfectly; you just have to do it anyway. You get to conquer your day with a smile, not because everything is easy, but because your heart is full, anchored in knowing you are exactly where you're meant to be, doing exactly what you're meant to do. You are a conqueror! You are an overcomer! So stand tall today. Embrace your place fully—with grit, grace, and gratitude. This moment is your launchpad, not your limit. You can do this. Because you were created for it. Now, get up. Show up. Conquer this day. It's time to embrace your place. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

And let the attacks begin... Because that's where it all starts — in the harsh reflection of who we see we are not. We beat ourselves up over what we haven't achieved, focusing on our so-called failures instead of recognizing the life lessons they've gifted us. You are bright and beautiful. It's time to shut down the negative rampage against yourself and open up to the warmth of joy that comes from embracing who you are — and who you are becoming. Let's cut through the noise. If you're an everyday woman juggling a million things (work deadlines, family chaos, bills, social commitments), you already know you're a hero for keeping everything moving. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com You're the one scheduling appointments while meal-prepping, calming tantrums on a phone call, and squeezing in self-care where it feels like there's no space. Your to-do list is a beast that never sleeps, and the weight of it all is draining you more than anyone sees. When you're running on empty, joy isn't just hiding — it's buried beneath exhaustion, stress, and constant "shoulds." You might catch moments of relief or laughter, but the deeper joy, the wellspring that can fuel you through chaos? It's running dry because your tank is empty. That's the problem nobody talks about. You can't reframe your mindset into joy if you're too drained to even notice it. The pressure cooker of responsibilities creates a constant background hum of overwhelm, and that mental clutter blocks you from even imagining a joy-filled life, regardless of your circumstances. Before you can get to the "feel good despite it all" mindset, you need to acknowledge that this depletion is real. You're not lazy or fickle; you're human and taxed beyond capacity. Without recognizing that, anything we'll talk about with joy will sound like empty pep talks. You've got to face the drained reality head-on and give yourself permission to pause—not just physically but mentally. And then, groundbreaking shifts can happen. That's the earthquake you need in your life. The K.I.S.S. ~ Permission to pause! Because without that, you are going to see yourself as someone who can't do what they set out to do. And that in itself is depressing and debilitating. You are made for more. You are filled with the Fruit of the Spirit to do what God has divinely designed for your life. But you must be willing to to the work with Him together. Here are three no-nonsense moves to reframe your mindset and lock in that joy that God gives, not what you think you can give yourself, no matter what's happening outside: 1. Own Your Story — Then Edit the Narrative You can't control what happens, but you can control how you frame it. Every experience, good or bad, is a story you tell yourself. Most people replay the pain, the injustice, or the "why me?" That keeps joy on the sidelines. Flip the script. Ask yourself: What is this teaching me? What can I be grateful for, even if it's small? Taking ownership shifts you from victim mode to empowered mode. You're not ignoring pain — you're widening the lens to see beyond it, making room for joy no matter how dark the moment feels. 2. Build a Ritual Around Presence Joy lives in the moment — not in "someday," not in "when things get better." Practice a ritual that anchors you in the NOW, such as a gratitude journal, focused breathing, or mindful walks. These aren't fluffy extras; they're deliberately rewiring your brain to catch the good when you'd otherwise miss it. Presence pulls you out of swirling worries and dumps you into reality, where beauty and joy exist alongside challenges. The more consistent you are, the more your brain learns to latch onto joy, God's joy, the joy only He gives. 3. Choose Connection and Contribution Isolation starves joy. Connection feeds it. Seek out moments to genuinely engage with people — friends, family, or your community. Better yet, pour your energy into helping others. When you contribute, you flip the attention off your struggles and align yourself with something bigger. It's no longer just about you. Giving doesn't just help the other person; it lights you up from the inside. That kind of joy isn't conditional. It's replenished every time you make someone else's day better. Make someone see there is something else besides their own troubles. Joy isn't a prize you win after clearing life's hurdles. It's an internal resource you build by retraining your mind and choices. It's seeing through the eyes of your Heavenly Father who loves you. Start owning your story, get present, and connect. And that's where you can cuddle up with the warmth of joy, no matter what's going on around you. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #WellspringWednesday #CreateYourNow #HealthAndWellness 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Life moves at the speed of light, that we forget even where we are in the day. We can get so dialed in that we become more about the DO rather than the WHO. With the season beginning to change, maybe it's time to stop and smell the roses, to slow down so you can speed up, or even tame the list so you can experience the day. Not so fast feels pretty good. Life has become a race we run blindfolded, chasing hours, crossing items off endless lists, forgetting at what point the day turned into a blur, how we became more about doing than simply being. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com The seasons shift—a gentle reminder— inviting us to pause, to breathe, to truly see. To stop and smell the roses, not as an afterthought, but as the moment itself worth savoring. Slow down to speed up. Tame the wild to-do's, embrace the grace of presence. When movement is measured, not manic, our impact deepens, our purpose brightens. The K.I.S.S. ~ Not so fast! Not so fast feels like a gift. Like coming home after running far too long. In that ease lies power—the power to touch, to change, to be remembered, not just rushed past. So breathe. Notice. Choose not just to do, but to glow in who you are and who you are becoming. All because the world you touch is waiting; So awake! And you can do more when you're not rushed. "The Gift of Pause" by Kristianne Wargo In the quiet fold of a slowing day, where moments whisper and shadows stay, there lies a gift we often miss— the sacred art of gentle bliss. Not in haste, but in the still, our restless souls begin to fill. With clearer sight and softer heart, we find the strength to make our mark. The roses bloom not in a race, but in their perfect slow embrace. So let your spirit dare to rest, and trust you're doing all that's best. For when you cease to rush and run, your light shines steady—like the sun. The world you touch feels this calm hue, and knows its beauty comes from you. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Life's pace is brutal. We chase endless tasks, pile on responsibilities, and keep grinding until we crash—physically and mentally. But as you know, running on empty is no way to run a life, a business, or anything worth having. So what brings the mind rest? That classic "I Love Lucy" episode where Lucy and Ethel take a job wrapping chocolates on a conveyor belt is pure comedic gold—and a perfect metaphor for life out of control. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com At first, it starts off slow and manageable. They calmly wrap chocolates one by one, confident they can keep up. The chocolates begin to come by faster, but they figure out how to keep going, and that includes stuffing their mouths and hats. But then, the supervisor strolls by, glances at their steady pace, and orders the operators to speed things up. Suddenly, the conveyor belt moves even faster and faster, flooding Lucy and Ethel with more chocolates than they can handle. Now, everything is a disaster; their hands fly, wrappers pile up, and chocolates go flying—and they keep stuffing frantically into their mouths to avoid missing a beat, but still cannot keep up. Chaos ensues as they try desperately to keep up with the relentless tempo. Question: How fast is your life moving compared to that conveyor belt? Are you calmly handling your tasks, or is everything speeding up so fast you're struggling just to keep all the pieces in play? When the pressure builds and the pace quickens, do you catch your breath—or do you start stuffing whatever you can into the wrappers, hoping for survival? If your life feels like that runaway conveyor belt, maybe it's time to hit pause, take control, and slow the pace before the whole thing spins wildly out of your grasp. The Mental Exhaustion Epidemic Because if we're honest, we live in a culture that worships "doing." Your to-do list becomes a measure of your worth. But here's the problem: The mind is not designed for nonstop action without renewal. Scientific research shows that constant cognitive load leads to decision fatigue, poor focus, and emotional burnout. Worse, when the mind is exhausted, your clarity vanishes, creativity stalls, and motivation tanks. On top of that, spiritual dissonance adds layers of unrest. Psalm 23:2 says, "He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters." That's not a suggestion for a quick power nap — it's a blueprint for deep mental and spiritual rest. So, when your mind is spinning, that conveyor belt is moving way out of control, and the exhaustion is real, what's the first move? Maybe it's to get back to the basics: reset and renew your mind. The K.I.S.S. ~ Reset and renew your mind! Think about it: What do you do now to renew your mind? Or would you even call it that? Most people have a hard enough time exercising, let alone making time to reset and renew their minds. But this is vital to your survival! 3 Things That Actually Reset and Renew Your Mind 1. Disconnect to Reconnect: Embrace Sacred Stillness In Matthew 11:28, Jesus invites, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Jesus is not vague. He is calling you to stop doing and start receiving rest for your soul and mind. Practical step: Schedule 15 to 30 minutes daily to be intentionally still — no phone, no screens, no noise. Use this time to pray, meditate on scripture, or simply breathe with focus. Studies confirm even short mindfulness sessions can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) and improve attention. This sacred pause rewires your brain to lower fight-or-flight mode and helps you gain mental clarity. 2. Guard Your Mental Inputs: Filter What You Feed Your Mind Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Your mind is not a dumping ground for random stimulus. Mental clutter fuels anxiety and distracts you from purposeful action. Action item: Conduct a mental diet audit. What news, social media, conversations, or thoughts are you absorbing? Limit exposure to negativity and chaos. Replace with scripture reading, uplifting conversations, or educational content that aligns with your faith and goals. This conscious curation trains your mind toward peace and focus. 3. Move Intentionally: Refresh the Mind Through Physical Action While rest means stopping, complete inertia can backfire, too. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Trust leads to action — not paralysis. Research shows physical activity improves neuroplasticity and releases endorphins that sharpen the mind and reduce depression. Choose a movement that resets you—whether a slow walk while praying, yoga, or stretching—something that reconnects the mind, body, and spirit. Why This Matters You can't out-hustle mental exhaustion. Ignoring mind rest is like trying to drive a car on empty—you'll stall, or worse, crash. When you integrate deliberate stillness, mental discipline, and movement rooted in faith, you build a system that keeps you sharp, productive, and aligned with what God wants for you. Without this, you'll keep spinning in chaos, chasing to-dos, and feeling farther from peace. Your Next Move Pick one of these steps to start today: Turn off your phone for 15 minutes and just sit quietly or pray. Unfollow one social channel that drains you and read Psalm 23 instead. Take a 10-minute mindful walk, focusing on your breath and God's presence. Stop running on fumes. Lead your mind—not the other way around. Jesus said: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" (Matthew 11:29). You've got this. Now, get out of your own way and take A.I.M.—real actions that rest and renew your mind. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #MindsetMonday #CreateYourNow #PersonalDevelopment 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Life drags us down. It spins us around, until the weight of it all crashes heavy on our shoulders. Deadlines stack higher than our energy. Responsibilities pile up faster than the hours in the day. In the middle of this chaos, Jesus gives refreshment for your soul. The invitation comes from Matthew 11:28-30 ~ "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." What does that "rest" really mean when exhaustion feels like a permanent state? And does it mean all our troubles just vanish as soon as we lean in? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com First, let's unpack the promise—Jesus isn't just offering a quick nap or a weekend off. There's no temporary band-aid here. The rest He offers is deeper; it's a refreshing reset for the soul that no amount of coffee, vacations, or distractions can provide. It's a rest where the noise of the world, the pressure, the chaos, all start to lose their grip. But here's the catch: this rest isn't about erasing our struggles overnight. Life is messy; bills don't stop, challenges don't disappear, and our limits don't stretch infinitely. The rest Jesus offers is a change of posture and perspective—a surrendering of the burden to Someone strong enough to carry it with you. Imagine carrying a heavy backpack you've hauled alone until now. When Jesus says "Come to me," it's an invitation to lay down the weight. Not to deny the load is there, but to stop pretending you have to carry it alone. The K.I.S.S. ~ Refreshment for your soul! So what does "refreshment" look like in practice? It's giving yourself permission to pause and breathe deeply into peace that isn't dependent on your circumstances. It's trusting that your value isn't tied to how much you do or how hard you hustle. It's letting go of self-imposed expectations and guilt. There is absolutely a better way than pushing through sheer willpower until you break. The better way is leaning into the invitation: Stop fighting solo. Stop measuring worth by productivity. And start living in the reality that rest is not weakness—it's strength. If you're holding onto a "someday when I get there" version of rest, stop waiting. The rest you crave is available now—right in the invitation to come as you are, weary and worn. That doesn't mean your troubles disappear immediately. But it does mean you don't have to carry them like a punishment. Answer the call to refreshment Jesus offers. Put down your heavy load. Find shelter in a rest that renews, steadies, and rebuilds even in the hardest seasons. This isn't a fantasy—it's a hard reality that many have walked into and found freedom. Stop spinning. Stop dragging. Come for the rest you deserve. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #SweetSpirit #CreateYourNow #SoulfulSunday 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Talking in marriage isn't always easy. We come to the conversation eager to share what's on our hearts—hoping to be understood and supported. But depending on your spouse's communication style or mood, your words can land cold, or worse, cause unintended pain. Hear the hurt behind the words. Communication is the backbone of any marriage. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com You might assume this only matters in the middle of fights or uncomfortable disagreements. But hurt shows up in marriage far more often—and in ways you might not even recognize in yourself. A tone, a pause, or a simple phrase can carry layers of unspoken pain. Ignoring it doesn't help; it only builds distance. Think about the following: Tone Breaths Phrases frequently used Place Interruptions So, how can you listen beyond words and catch the hurt your spouse might be masking? You must build a stronger bridge than the hurt itself. The K.I.S.S. ~ Build a stronger bridge! A bridge allows you to get from one side to the other. Here are three crucial moves any spouse can make: Look for the Emotion Underneath the Message Words are just the surface. What's brewing beneath could be fear, frustration, disappointment, loneliness, or exhaustion. Instead of focusing solely on what was said, tune into how it was said. Is your spouse's voice tight or shaky? Do their eyes avoid yours? Body language and tone give away the emotional undercurrents. When you pick up on that, you acknowledge their pain even if it's not expressed directly. Ask Open, Non-Defensive Questions When hurt hides behind words, assumptions kill clarity. Instead of jumping to conclusions or getting defensive, slow down and invite your spouse to open up. Simple questions like, "That sounds tough—what's really going on for you?" or "I want to understand what you're feeling—can you tell me more?" shift the conversation from blame to connection. You're signaling you're on their side, ready to listen without judgment. Validate the Feeling, Not Just the Facts Hearing hurt doesn't mean you have to fix or agree immediately. It means acknowledging the feeling as real and important. Saying, "I can hear you're upset, and that matters to me," goes a long way to softening defenses and making your spouse feel safe. When people feel seen emotionally, even difficult conversations lose their sharp edges and open the door to real problem-solving. Marriage is messy because it deals with our rawest selves—our fears, vulnerabilities, and unmet needs. The words your spouse speaks are clues, not the whole story. By learning to hear the hurt behind the words, you build a stronger bridge to understanding and grow closer even through the hardest talks. So next time you feel a disconnect in conversation, don't just listen—hear the hurt. Because that's where healing and connection begin. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #RelationshipBuilders #CreateYourNow #LoveAndMarriage 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

When life gets messy — and let's be honest, it always does — both parents and kids face the terrifying question: "Where do I run first?" It's not just about geography; it's about the who and what that can catch us when we're falling apart under overwhelm and struggle. If parents don't provide a safe fallback, kids often sprint toward friends, teachers, coaches, or romantic interests — places that might get them, or might just judge and reject them. This question strips parenting to its core responsibility: Are we raising kids who know our love is a rock, not a reward? Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com Because nothing kills trust faster than transactional love — the kind that whispers, "You have to earn my care." Here's the truth: No one, at any age, wants to unload their biggest fears and failures onto someone who's counting points or judging through the lens of rigid morals and values. That's a hard pill for parents, but the stakes are high. The Mirror Effect: Kids See Through the Facade Here's the cold, clear reality — kids can sniff out if your love is real or just a performance. They notice when your affection depends on their grades, behavior, or achievements. That's a deal-breaker. Because when the chips are down, what they really need is a refuge that says: "No matter what, I'm here. I've got you." If they don't find that first at home, they'll get it somewhere else — and it might not be a place that helps them grow. So if your kid's "first run" isn't to you, that's your signal right there. The question for every parent becomes: how do we build that "go-to" foundation of unconditional love — not just in word, but in practice? The K.I.S.S. ~ Build a "go-to" foundation of unconditional love! What does it look like to build that go-to foundation in real life? Here Are 3 Non-Negotiable Moves to Show Real Unconditional Love Hold Space Without Judgment When your kid comes with bad news, a mistake, or raw emotion — lock the judgment away. Listen first. Too often, parents' knee-jerk reaction is to fix, scold, or lecture. But the first rule is this: their feelings matter, even if their choices don't. Saying "I love you no matter what" loses power if your face and words say, "I'm disappointed." Action Step: Practice saying "Help me understand what happened" instead of "Why did you do that?" Be Consistently Present, Especially When It's Hard Unconditional love isn't a fair-weather friend. It shows up during tantrums, failures, and arguments — not just when they're hitting milestones or playing the "right" role. On tough days, your presence is the lifeline that says, "You can come home to me no matter how messy you are." Action Step: Schedule one-on-one "undistracted time" weekly. No phones, no judgments—just you and your kid. Model Vulnerability and Own Your Own Imperfections When parents act like they're perfect, it builds a wall. Kids need to see that the adults they run to are human—that they mess up, learn, and grow. This cracks open the door for authentic connection and reassures kids that mistakes don't remove love. Action Step: Share a "fail" or fear with your kid and how you navigated it. Show you're not "above" them but beside them. Why This Matters More Than Ever The WHO kids run to first isn't just about immediate comfort — it shapes their whole approach to life's challenges. When parents embody unconditional love, kids learn where real refuge lives. They grow up confident to share pains, mistakes, and fears without fear of rejection or manipulation. They don't seek validation on the playground or from a partner because they know they have a home base. Parents, you must hold this responsibility tightly: your love must be a constant landing pad, not a roller coaster. That's what builds resilient, healthy humans who will carry the legacy forward. The answer to "Where do I run first?" starts at home — with you. Show up as the safe harbor, the steady heart, the unshakable yes that doesn't depend on conditions. Because at the end of the day, that's the kind of love every kid deserves — and it's the kind of parent you can be. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #ConfessionsOfAnUpsetMama #CreateYourNow #TodaysParent 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Life isn't a constant stream of roses and rainbows. More often, it's weeds choking the garden and storms darkening the sky. But from those weeds and storms come blooms and skies painted with the kind of beauty you cannot fake or force. It's no wonder it's hard to wear your smile. Maybe you're struggling to smile today? I get it. Sometimes smiling feels like a mask, like pretending everything's okay when inside you're falling apart. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com But wearing a smile isn't about life handing you perfect cards. It's about choosing kindness, toward others and toward yourself, even when you feel broken or invisible. A smile is you saying, "I'm more than my current pain." You get to extend a piece of your heart, no matter how cracked it feels. Because your situation — no matter how heavy, difficult, or lonely — is not your identity. You are not your struggle. The K.I.S.S. ~ Wear your smile! There's a time and place for everything in life, and your smile is needed in every one of those moments. It's a quiet act of rebellion against despair. It shows you refuse to be defined by hardship. It offers others a glimpse of hope when their own skies are stormy. So wear your smile, not because life is easy, but because your kindness matters. Because even when your heart aches and your path is uncertain, you have the power to bring light, starting with that simple curve of your lips. This isn't about pretending; it's about showing up as fully you, in all your messy, brave, beautiful glory. Wear Your Smile by Kristianne Wargo Wear your smile like armor, not for the world's applause, but for the battles hidden— the quiet fights no one saw. A smile isn't sunshine lighting every shadow in your day, it's a choice to keep on shining when light feels far away. Wear your smile for the weary, for hearts worn thin and torn, a gentle bridge between the cracks, where hope is quietly born. It's not a mask of pretense, but courage bent and true, a gift you give the broken parts— a promise made by you. So wear your smile as defiance, against the stormy mile, because even in the darkness, there's power in your smile. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.

Why do we so often stall when the next step is right in front of us? It’s time to stop beating around the bush—and trim it. Decide and do what needs to happen today. No waiting for permission. And if you want it anyway? Here it is: Permission granted. Decide and do. Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com Look, you already know what to do. For the most part, the path is clear. But you get stuck, tangled in what you think you should be doing—what others expect or what feels “safe.” Meanwhile, the real, urgent work gets ignored. We don’t lack knowledge or opportunity; we lack the courage to give what’s needed in that moment. The courage you need is to take A.I.M.! The K.I.S.S. ~ Decide and do! You have a dream. You have a goal. You have a choice hanging over you right now. Decide—and then act. Don’t waste hours, days, or weeks deliberating on the perfect plan. Because once you decide, that clarity reveals your next move, whether it’s learning something new, executing what you already know, or stepping into unknown territory. The point is: you’re moving. That’s more than what you’re doing while you overthink. Here’s a simple formula to cut through the noise: Take A.I.M.—Action Ignites Motivation. Your thoughts are fuel, but words and actions are the spark. Speak your intentions. Act on them. Momentum won’t wait for you to feel ready; it builds when you do. Create your now! If you want results, the boldest move isn’t planning forever or seeking endless advice. It’s deciding and doing. Right now. Not tomorrow, not “when things settle.” Today. Decide and do. "Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!" #Inspiration #CreateYourNow #DailyMotivation 🔔 Desire to be supported and encouraged by other like-minded women? Join us at the Kairos FREE Online Community. https://createyournow.com TAKE A.I.M. ~ Action Ignites Motivation - This is a complimentary (FREE) coaching call with me. You will discuss your specific situation while gaining tools and strategies to move you forward. (https://form.jotform.com/62988215824163) 🙏 Create Your Now TV on Pray.com (https://pray.com) 🎥 Create Your Now on YouTube (https://youtube.com/createyournow) 🎧 Create Your Now on Spotify, Pandora, and Audible. 🎶 Create Your Now on iHeart Radio (http://www.iheart.com/show/263-Create-Your-Now-Your-Best/) ✍️ YourBestSelfie@CreateYourNow.com Instagram @CreateYourNow @KristianneWargo Twitter @KristianneWargo @CreateYourNow Facebook www.facebook.com/TheKISSCoach www.facebook.com/CreateYourNow Cover Art by Jenny Hamson Photo by Canva.com Music by Mandisa - Overcomer http://www.mandisaofficial.com Song ID: 68209 Song Title: Overcomer Writer(s): Ben Glover, Chris Stevens, David Garcia Copyright © 2013 Meaux Mercy (BMI) Moody Producer Music (BMI) One Songs (ASCAP) Ariose Music (ASCAP) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publ. (ASCAP) D Soul Music (ASCAP) (adm. at CapitolCMGPublishing.com) All rights reserved. Used by permission.