I was out running with my five nieces recently and what a joyful and inspiring experience it was.
My nieces are…
Megan: 18 years and the most beautiful young lady you will ever meet, with the happiest smile. Megan will be Entrepreneur of the decade – she is super intelligent and successfully business savvy – watch this space! AC loves you Megan 💖
Carmen: 13 years, who has the most loving, caring and endearing heart. Carmen is beyond talented at drawing, writing and anything artistically creative. She also made me a cute bracelet as a goodbye gift – thank you Carmen! AC loves you Carmen 💖
Made by Carmen 💛
Nicole: 9 years and WOW can this young girl run! Without any training at all, Nicole sat right on my shoulder running for 18 minutes flat – her determination, never give up attitude and inner strength is second to none. Nicole will get EVERYWHERE in life with that kind of spirit. She is sweet, polite, kind and a beautiful joy to be around. AC loves you Nicole 💖
Michelle: 6 years and what a funny, kind, happy and super loving child Michelle is – she also did the 18 minute run very easily – I could not believe my eyes! Michelle is full of joy, love and happiness. You should have seen this young one sprint at the end……WOW, the olympics are calling! AC loves you Michelle 💖
Elisabeth: Nearly 2 years old and beautiful little Elisabeth joined in the running fun. Megan and Carmen held her hand and she was smiling, laughing and joining in the running fun. Mummy watched it all with joy and pride. Elisabeth is an adventurous little child who loves to have fun and take part with her big sisters. AC loves you Elisabeth 💖
My wonderful nieces run outdoors both days with me and I am so PROUD of them. I love them all very much and can’t wait to see how they progress.
I want to give my nephew Sean (20 years) a mention. I am sure he would have joined us girls in the running challenge, but he was in Malawi, East Africa doing voluntary work with his Dad (Cameron) and Nic (Megan’s lovely boyfriend). I am so proud of you all for giving back in such a kind, caring and helpful way.
My lovely Sister, Leanne is the most AMAZING Mum, and I could easily dedicate a whole book to her wonderful ways – SuperMum she is and more 💖
I started running way back in 2007 and have done thousands of outdoor runs, but I can honestly and wholeheartedly say, that those two recent outdoor runs with my nieces were the BEST EVER. It took me 17 years to experience the best run of my life and all because my nieces were with me.
AC loves you ALL very much and is so proud of you.
Let’s keep it going!
Life is what you make it. You can watch from the sidelines or take part – it’s your choice.
This video was captured in the beautiful historic village of Carrbridge, in the Highlands of Scotland. This is the view of the 18th century packhorse bridge, in which the area is famous for.
If you ever get a chance to visit the Highlands, I would recommend a visit to that popular tourist spot and also the surrounding areas of Boat of Garten and Aviemore – all part of the Cairngorms National Park.
The Highlands of Scotland is one of the most magical places I’ve been to. Its natural beauty is just breathtaking and the local residents are so welcoming and friendly.
Honestly, if you are thinking of going, please do contact me, I can offer you some worthwhile guidance on where to stay, what to do and where to go.
It holds a very special place in my heart, and I genuinely believe it healed me during some tough times in life. The funny thing is, I wasn’t aware of its healing powers whilst living there, but when I Iook back, I know it did exactly that.
I will share with you more videos and photographs of my life up there – so please watch this space!
Clarabelle Walking in Snowy Highlands
The world is filled with magical places to visit, and to travel and explore these, is such a wonderful gift.
If there is a destination that you have always wanted to visit, then you must do your best to make that happen.
Constantly being in the one spot can become dull and stagnant. Your curious soul thrives to feel alive in new environments.
Write a list of the places you’ve always wanted to go to and do what you can to get there.
Clarabelle’s Highland Cabin, Year 2017
I’ll be back in the Highlands soon for a visit. I love the snow and there’s plenty of it coming there soon.
Be all you can be and take your beautiful energy to places you align with.
My way, always seems to be the scenic route – many years of ups and downs but many magical moments on the journey.
It’s the magic moments that shape and inspire me – the downs are ‘key’ learning opportunities and you must see it that way – if you want to KEEP GOING!
Stay on your desired path, no matter how hard it gets and the RIGHT people WILL come your way – like a beautiful surprise blessing.
We are all super blessed to experience the beauty of life – treat it as a fun and joyous game that you always WIN.
I have a dream to travel the world on a luxury super yacht, sailing the open seas and inviting the ocean sunsets into my heart.
The great thing is…in my magical mind…it’s never JUST a dream…it’s a vision to come true….to forever experience…to truly live and fully immerse in.
Dream It Do It and as cliche as it may sound, that’s my exact plan.
I’m never that girl who only talks the talk! Yes, it might take me a few years to get there, but I will forever walk the talk.
I’ve always loved boats and I’m not even a great swimmer but there’s just something so special about sailing towards the summer sunset – free, easy, bright and breezy!
Catamaran Sunset Cruise in Santorini
Watching whales in their natural environment will be on my sailing adventures list – the thought of being close to the breathtaking beauty and magnitudnal size of a blue whale, fills me with the greatest joy and off-the-scale excitement.
Our sailing journey starts in 2025 where we will be cruising around Spain, France and Italy, on the stunning ship – the famous Sky Princess by Princess Cruises. It’s a top quality oceanliner that will be freeing my heart amongst the waves of life.
These dreams do come at cost, but I’d rather pay thousands of pounds for a magical lifetime experience than a fancy designer handbag anyday – but hey, each to their own and we all love what we love!
The world is a travellers extravaganza and its hidden gems are waiting to be explored. Please check out The Rife Guide my favourite modern nomad travel blog.
A lot of us are living and working in square boxes most of our lives, but I genuinely don’t think that’s where we’re supposed to be. Our life of this time should not be couped up any longer than it needs to be. The wonders of the natural world on land, sky and sea want to greet our soul with a smile and a sparkle. Please don’t be tempted to stay in your cave for too long, the miracles you seek are often just a decision away.
I dare you to plan that dream trip, go to that new place you’ve had your eye on, shake mother-nature’s hand and simmer under the sunset like there’s no tomorrow – for I know this adventure will live in your heart forever.
Explore your passionate desires through wondrous worldly travel.
With a title like this, I am in no way minimizing the sheer amazement that is Angkor Wat. Truly, I have never been so blown away by such mastery and grandeur. I usually max out on museums and historic sites after a few hours each day. Something was different at Angkor Wat. Each temple held a unique frequency, and I became more energized as I temple-hopped. If it were allowed, I would have happily slept out there. LOL. There is a wealth of information about visiting Angkor Wat online, so I wanted this article to help you differently. Here, I’ll share my favorite things I did in Siem Reap beyond the temples.
First, I’ll offer a few tips I wish I had known before visiting. Then, we’ll head north of Angkor Wat and explore beyond, where I’ll share some of the adventurous and off-the-beaten-path activities I enjoyed outside the temple grounds. To clarify, the ancient city of Angkor Wat is inside the modern city of Siem Reap. I’ll keep these concise and to the point. Here are my top 11 pointers not to miss beyond the temples!
Angkor Wat
1. Logistics
Passes
When I visited Angkor Wat in June 2024, there were three types of passes available: a one-day, three-day and seven-day pass. If you have the time, I highly recommend the seven-day pass. It allows you to explore the grounds at a more relaxed pace and visit remote temples that many rushed travelers don’t have the opportunity to see.
There are two main viewing routes in Angkor Wat – the Big Circuit and the Small Circuit, most definitely traversed on separate days. My friends and I hired a TukTuk driver for the Big Circuit, which was the best use of our time and incredibly fun! The next day, I tackled the Small Circuit on my bicycle, which provided both a workout and enjoyment.
There was something about biking alone through the jungle that made me feel like a real adventurer, especially when I got stuck in a torrential downpour for 1.5 hours 🙆🏽♀️. I recommend these transportation methods and they are a bit rugged and keep you close to the earth. You can rent or hire an air-conditioned car, to me this felt too modern for the landscape.
Pro tip ~ there are two temples 20-30 minutes outside the Big Circuit called Phnom Bok and Banteay Samre. We had our driver take us to these for an additional small fee. Now I wouldn’t suggest more temples unless they were worth it, and these REALLY REALLY ARE!
Put on your athlete cap, as Phnom Bok requires 630 steps up to this 9th-10th century temple. This is no joke in triple-digit weather, my friends. Apart from the crumbling Phnom Bok there is also a gorgeous Buddhist temple atop. You will feel alone on top of the world up here.
Banteay Samre is down the street as you head back into town. This temple blew me away because the carvings are well-preserved. I think this is because of its tucked-away location and the fact that it attracts far fewer visitors than the temples on the circuits.
Food & Drink
There are cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the grounds of Angkor Wat which offer a variety of food, drinks and souvenirs. You won’t go hungry out there!If you have specific preferences for snacks and hydration, I recommend bringing them in a backpack. Additionally, it’s wise to research the weather for your visit. Depending on the season, you may want to pack a rain jacket and umbrella, just in case.
2. The Angkor Wat App
This app proved invaluable as it maps out both routes within its interface, conveniently numbered in viewing order – a stroke of genius! Clicking on each temple provides a brief history, which was informative. While the basic version sufficed, in hindsight, I wish I had opted for the upgraded version for additional features and information. The app was particularly helpful when I explored alone on my bike, keeping me on course through the behemoth jungle.
3. The Secret Angkor Thom Trail
Anything secret intrigues me, especially when lost cities are involved. So when a local tipped me off to the 12km trail around Angkor Thom, my ears perked up. As you enter through any archway entrances surrounding the perimeter, you’ll find small dirt trails leading up to the wall (I entered at the South Gate). On top of the wall is a perfect trail for walking, running, or biking. You’ll encounter wildlife, a jungle to your right, a moat to your left and hidden temples along the shaded path. I saw no other trekkers, only a few bicycle groups during my walk.
Walking is one of my favorite activities, and this trail in this setting made it extra special – it was one of my favorite walks ever. I suggest bringing a hat, plenty of water, a fully charged phone and a few downloaded podcast episodes. Walking casually, I completed the full loop in 3 hours and 22 minutes. Talk about experiencing Angkor Wat without the crowds!
I think you will be pleasantly surprised and enamored with the town of Siem Reap. It is walkable, safe and has the modern conveniences you want. Now, this is not a food guide, but there are a few places I MUST point out. These are places I will always revisit when I return.
4. Restaurants
It is hard to have a bad meal in Siem Reap. That said, I especially fell in love with these restaurants. The first two are quick, delicious and mission-driven establishments. The third was such a comforting, cozy experience tasting Geeta’s food; it reminded me of my Nana’s cooking!
• Wild Creative Bar & Spring Rolls Restaurant – anyone who has designed a restaurant concept around spring rolls has my heart. To me, spring rolls are close to tacos regarding a near-perfect meal. Light, easy, crunchy, flavorful, creative and requires sauce ~ bliss! Wild has come up with some unique rolls and dipping sauces. I packed a few of their rolls for a picnic one day inside the temples and that was the move.
• Muffin Man – these guys served me one of the best muffins I have ever had. Along with sweet treats, they nail healthy salads and sandwiches. With two convenient locations in town and delicious coffee, Muffin Man is a must-try.Don’t miss reading the story of how they came to be, as it absolutely moving, grab the tissues.
• Serendib Srilankan Cuisine – go meet Geeta and eat her incredible food! She is a nurse by day and chef extraordinaire by night. The sweetest soul and her food will transport you to Sri Lanka and beyond.
5. Bars
There are plenty of bars in SR, but these watering holes were unique and unforgettable.
• Asana Old Wooden House – a cozy, perfectly lit gem inside Pub Street’s bustle. This cocktail-forward bar is a beautiful example of traditional Khmer architecture. These houses are known for their intricate wooden carvings and elevated stilts to protect against flooding during the monsoon season. You could see lighting up a cigar with the most interesting man in the world at Asana!
• Laundry – I first walked by Laundry and thought it was a laundromat. Nope! It is a groovy, low-key bar with a melting pot of travelers, expats and locals. The pool table, along with the hot peanuts and local draft beer, are the main attractions. The perfect place to decompress after a day of temples!
• Elephant Bar – because who doesn’t love a little pinky-up moment? Located inside Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Elephant Bar boasts a well-appointed setting. They host a welcoming happy hour from 4-6p, open to outside guests. Beyond the delightful drinks, I was charmed by the friendly staff, world-class art and snacks (of course!).
Honorable Mention – although not a restaurant or bar, I highly recommend visiting Tribe Art Gallery. They house incredible art created by locals and other artists throughout Asia. The meaning and intention behind each artist’s work really drew me in. Check their hours; they were open Friday through Sunday evenings when I visited.
North of Angkor Wat
For the adventures below, I rented a scooter. There is nothing like riding a scooter through Cambodia’s countryside, as this is a wonderfully rural part of the world. It did a lot for the little kid in me. Don’t miss this type of transportation during your exploration beyond the temples!
6. Banteay Srey Temple
Banteay Srey Temple is known for its distinctive red sandstone construction, unique among the Angkorian temples. This beauty dates back to the late 10th century, making it older than Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century. It is celebrated for its decorative intricacy, showcasing some of the finest examples of classical Khmer craftsmanship from the Angkorian era. The artistry here was astounding. You will need your temple pass to enter.
7. Cambodia Landine Museum
Landmines in Cambodia are a tragic legacy from decades of conflict, including the Vietnam War and the Khmer Rouge regime, which left the country heavily contaminated with unexploded ordnance. This museum tells the brave and heroic story of Aki Ra ~ a soldier, humanitarian, hero, de-miner, husband and father.These accounts of the past are heavy and hard to process. Understanding these gut-wrenching pieces of history allows us to honor and acknowledge those who endured unfathomable hardships. For me, it’s a way to pay my respects.
I mapped myself here to break up my drive to Tonle Sap Lake and was sure glad I did! During the brief tour of the farm I saw and learned about all the sustainable ways they use the lotus flower. These include making thread for clothing, food, vegan leather, candles, perfume, tea and much more. Don’t miss the gift shop downstairs + lotus tea & biscuits upstairs!
9. Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia 😲. It has sustained Cambodian communities for centuries, providing fertile fishing and agricultural grounds. The lake is home to floating villages, where houses and structures are built on stilts or platforms. This allows inhabitants to adapt to the lake’s changing water levels and move their homes + communities as needed depending on water levels during wet and dry seasons. Visiting the floating villages is a hands-on way to understand the importance of this lake. Can you imagine moving your home because you know a monsoon is coming? All I can say is respect.
Phnom Kraom is home to a Buddhist monastery where monks live and practice daily rituals, contributing to the serene atmosphere atop the hill. You can explore this Buddhist temple, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Cruise to Phnom Kraom after Tonle Sap for sunset, as this is one of the highest points in Siem Reap. Viewing the floating village from this hillside provides a colorful vision. You will need to show your temple pass to enter.
East of Siem Reap
11. Kulen Elephant Forest Camp
My last suggestion beyond the temples is Kulen Elephant Forest Camp. I booked this experience directly online. They offer roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned car, which is amazing. Our guide picked us up downtown, and we drove one hour east to Kulen Elephant Forest to meet these majestic giants.
These elephants were rescued from working in tourism at Angkor Wat in 2017. By 2019, elephant rides at the temples had stopped. It is wonderful to see how well taken care of they are, these caretakers are doing a top notch job. The time spent at the camp includes making elephant food, feeding, walking, and hanging with the elephants in the forest. If you are an elephant lover, this experience will be a dream come true! The money spent on visits helps with their feed, care and conservation efforts. I paid $90 USD.
Good Bye, Mysterious Angkor Wat
When I think about Angkor Wat, it evokes mystery and intrigue. There are many theories about how the Khmer built the largest and most prosperous urban city of the 12th century. How did they cut and lay each stone so precisely? How did they carve the stones without cracking them? As curious as I am, some things are better left enigmatic. I believe ancient civilizations had access to higher consciousness ~ visioning, dreaming and creating as they were not so focused on climbing the corporate ladder, paying bills, social media and running carpools ~ if you know what I mean?
I hope you enjoy the temples with your body, mind and soul. May they touch you on a deep cellular level, activating a sense of mystery and wonder. And I hope these ways of experiencing Siem Reap beyond the temples round out your visit in a fulfilling way.May we all have the privilege of dreaming up something magical in this lifetime!
With all my love,
Bekah
PS ~ if you are doing the darn thing in Southeast Asia and plan to visit Vietnam, check out our unique Vietnamese food guide here!
Please follow The Rife Guide for more inspired travel and food articles for the modern nomad.
If you really want to change your current status, you have to channel all your energies into making that happen.
You have to go ALL IN , in order to get ALL OUT, of any unwanted situation.
It seriously is up to you and you’ve got to have real clarity on what you’re going to do everyday, in order to make that positive change.
Do the work and stay totally focussed on the goal in hand. It may also help to have an emotional trigger that will keep you on track.
Work, work, work on your plan, as much as you can, and in time, your efforts WILL pay off.
If it means, getting up at 4am every morning to fit the work in, then do it.
Your energy is so mighty and powerful, it can help you achieve so much more than you think.
Are you ready? If you are, you will feel a different person from within. You will switch into ‘gladiator’ mode and nothing will stop you until you get there.
Self-mastery is a neverending challenge but when you make that your goal, everything else becomes so much easier.
Temptation to do or not to do surrounds us daily and that’s what makes self-mastery the ultimate challenge.
The mountain climber, the marathon runner, the world class swimmer, the champion cyclist etc.. are all on the path of self-mastery and it is often AFTER the great win that the real challenge begins.
If winning was the only end goal, life would lose true meaning – read that one again.
Remain in alignment with your core values and gain some real inner peace and quality of life.
Brave steps of change can be a little daunting at times, however, you must think of the positives; you must stay focussed on all the great things that change can bring.
Yes, change can be a little scary but sometimes the more you over analyse, the more you want to stay in your comfort zone. Surely a great life can only be achieved with brave change, ambitious desire and deep faith in your heart that you are most definitely doing the right thing?
When you feel driven, when you feel responsible for making your life a great life……then you will take the plunge and what if everything does go your way….what if?
I was heading out for my usual outdoor run one day and my friend said to me, “It doesn’t bother you running outside?” I was like, “Why?”. She then explained to me, that she wouldn’t run outside because she would think everyone was looking at her. I shared with her, that gladly that thought didn’t ever come into my mind and even if it did, I would probably think, “Good, maybe I’ll inspire someone to run too!“
Do you see the EMPOWERMENT or DISEMPOWERMENT your mind can have over you?
I want you to THINK about your THINKING and if it serves you well or not.
Think POWERFUL thoughts that will build you up, not break you down.
Aim to be more SELF-CONFIDENT and less SELF-CONSCIOUS, it will help you to forge forward in life.
And lastly, if you want to run outside but are maybe thinking, “What if everyone is looking at me?” Change that thinking to, “WHAT IF I INSPIRE SOMEONE TO RUN TOO?”
The selfie photo below, is of me recently, just back from my evening run in Hyde Park, London.
Clarabelle loves to run!
I hope I have inspired you to run too!
Have a GREAT one, wonderful you.
By Clarabelle, London, UK Created on 10 August 2022 Posted to blog on 6 September 2022
Be a loyal and trustworthy person and you will have the best friends for life.
Be open and honest with your feelings, it will help people to see the true side of you.
Be helpful and caring towards others and seek first to understand before being understood.
Be a positive and upbeat kind of person – no one wants to be around a drainer – sorry, they just don’t!
Be kind and friendly as much as you can because these qualities are always remembered in you by others.
Really focus on developing yourself as much as possible and read books on other people who have already succeeded in life.
Never judge another – you have not walked in that person’s shoes and you don’t know the difficult experiences other people have had to deal with. No one lives a perfect life, believe that!
Take time to plan what you want out of life in the next 2, 5 and 10 years from now and then go to work EVERYDAY on your plan.
Look after your health and wellbeing and that includes your mental, physical and spiritual.
Keep your finances in check and do your best to never lose money but instead work out how to grow your money and how to make it work for you.
By Clarabelle, London, UK Created on 9 August 2022 Posted to Blog on 3 September 2022
Rightly or wrongly, I’ve always battled with living the ordinary kinda life – I just didn’t and still don’t see that for myself.
So, 49 years young, how’s it all looking now?
Well, honestly, probably 75% of it still feels like “ordinary” to me but I now have an absolute CLEAR VISION and SUPER STRONG FOCUS on how to change that to EXTRAORDINARY!
“Bit by bit”, has always been a key phrase for me and it really does work, if you stay consistent and committed to your goal in action.
So what will make the difference now, as opposed to 5, 10 or 20 years ago?
Well, this time, I am building on absolute SOLID ground and my core values are so deep rooted into the purpose behind my vision that even a magnitude 10 earthquake could not shake me off this meaningful path.
You see, I never had that before. I always had the belief and the self-confidence but spinning too many plates, led to too many distractions and therefore building on shaky ground – that was never going to last longterm.
I also just ‘feel it in my bones’ this time around. Everything seems to be pointing in the right direction and I feel like I am dancing towards the finish line, rather than running scared!
It can be exhausting changing your life for the better. So much energy is consumed at the start and it feels like nothing much is happening. It’s usually when you feel like giving up that a little glimmer of hope begins to sparkle from the distance.
Please don’t get me wrong, I’ve had a blast, living most of my ordinary life and it can feel quite perfect at certain times. We all have different definitions of ordinary – it’s really just down to personal preference and can be simple or somewhat complex.
Ultimately, if you’re happy, well in my eyes, you’ve already hit the jackpot and I genuinely salute you.
Does that then mean I’m not happy, chasing the extraordinary? For me, I am happy and I am MOST HAPPIEST pursuing my aspirational future whilst helping others along the way.
I guess, we’re all in this together, so let’s enjoy the process and give back as much as we can.
By Clarabelle, London, UK Written on 8 August 2022 Posted to blog on 2 September 2022
When I lived and worked in Dubai a few years ago, I used to go for 5am runs towards the stunning Dubai sunrise.
The morning sunrise in Dubai was as picture perfect as you could get it and it really did make a positive difference to the rest of my day.
A Good Solution
The lovely air conditioned gym in my apartment block, didn’t open until 6.30am and that was too late for me – so an early morning run, before the heat became unbearable, was a good solution for me.
Wonderful Opportunity
I also had the wonderful opportunity, whilst staying in Palm Jumeirah, to go for morning swims before work. I remember during those blissful swims, feeling so wholeheartedly grateful for manifesting those dreamlike moments into my life.
Lots of things didn’t work out for me in Dubai or I would have stayed there for so much longer but I NEVER EVER think of that. I put my focus on what did work out and the truly wonderful people I crossed paths with and learned so much from.
Embrace Every Opportunity
Don’t expect things to be perfect in life, when you try something new or go to a new environment to live or work in but DO EXPECT to embrace every opportunity that comes your way, for that indeed makes up the true essence of you.
Never think, “What if it doesn’t work out?” ALWAYS think, “WHAT IF IT DOES WORK OUT?”
A doubtful mind is a horrible burden to carry. An empowering mind, on the other hand, will carry you there. NOTE THE DIFFERENCE!
Your dreams are for the taking and now is your time!
By Clarabelle, London, UK Created on 5 August 2022 Posted to blog on 21 August 2022
I’m going to make every Thursday on this blog “POETRY CORNER”. The reason being, I really LOVE writing poetry, especially with a positive spin on it or words that showcase a deep sense of inner wisdom.
So today I share with you Poetry Corner #1:
Being YOU
To feel alive, fresh and true, steal the show, by being YOU.
Never let, a negative voice, hold you back, or change your choice.
For you are special, one of a kind, uniquely passionate, with a genius mind.
So set your sail, to better lands, where your dreams, are in your hands.
Whenever I want to make a significant change in my life, I give myself a 100 day challenge to make it happen.
I will set the goal in hand, mark the start and end date and then everyday, I just bloody well GO FOR IT!
I have read so many times over and over again that it takes 21 days to break a habit but unfortunately that has never been true for me. I know this, because I have put it to the test many times before. I would be interested to know, has it ever worked for you?
In my opinion if you aim for a really juicy goal that you want to achieve and stay wholeheartedly committed to achieving it – the 100 day rule, gives you more than enough time. I have used this for daily running challenges, healthy eating changes and life-changing career decisions. 100 days, to me, is the PERFECT timeline for making a real positive impact on your life.
So let’s say I start today, 1 August 2022 and set myself a goal to write one blog post everyday for the next 100 days. That means, the 100th day lands on 8 November 2022 and I just know that by that day a HUGE positive impact will be made on my life – for me, it’s almost guaranteed.
You want a new job? Try the 100 day challenge.
You want a new relationship? Do the 100 day challenge.
You want to get fitter? Action the 100 day challenge.
You want to move home? Apply the 100 day challenge.
You want to start a new business? Implement the 100 day challenge.
It even works for training for a marathon – and I’ve run four!
And the goals list goes on……
The key here is, you must be committed to the goal in hand and you must NEVER miss out a day – if you do, give yourself the consequence of needing to start from day 1 again! (But then that wouldn’t be 100 days anymore).
Whatever date you are reading this, pick a feasible goal that you really want to achieve. Mark down the start of your 100 day challenge and highlight your end date – now it’s time, to GET TO WORK!
Are you up for the 100 Day Challenge?
Don’t overthink it – START NOW!
Oh and please let me know how you get on – I want to hear your SUCCESS story, so that it can INSPIRE and MOTIVATE others.
There is absolute genius in you and you’ve got to believe that.
No other person in this world has had the exact same experiences as you or thinks exactly like you.
You can always bring ‘another level’ to whatever you are involved in.
Don’t be scared to demonstrate the best of you. Be proud of you and your true potential, enabling you to get to where you want to go.
Never shy away from what you truly deserve to have in your life. Only you can hold you back – now read that line again!
Be a sponge for learning new things, no matter what age you are and ensure you focus your energy on what really matters to you.
Mix all of the above with undeniable self-belief and you’re on your way to not only changing yourself for the better but to having a positive impact on the world too.
You may not think about it in this way, but you really can inspire others with what you say and what you do – that’s how powerful you truly are.
Go out today and show everyone what you’ve got. Your future success relies on today’s impactful thinking, so make sure your brave heart, leads you through every unknown battle and into the life you truly deserve.
Personally, I prefer to drive my own way through life – sometimes the journey is smooth and other times it’s a very bumpy ride.
Life, with all its twists and turns, can somedays be higher than high, then the next day, lower than low – I guess, that’s just the way life is and we must, stay strong and roll with the punches.
Set backs in life are inevitable but it’s important that you remain determined and resilient as ever, as these powerful qualities bring real passion to the common phrase “keep going”.
Always visualise yourself WINNING, no matter what’s going on around you. I encourage you to DRIVE from within and get to your desired destination, with that amazing feeling of real self-achievement.
Remember, your deep experience in life, love and in work. You are crowned everyday with unique capabilities that are open to true growth and self-expansion
I challenge wonderful YOU, to forge your way forward into achieving your goals and aspirations.
Ponder on this thought for today…..DRIVE or be DRIVEN?
I love outdoor running, I find it energising and therapeutic at the same time. I have noticed that when I take a break from running for a few months or so, I don’t feel as good.
This morning, I did an early morning run to the Italian Fountains in Hyde Park, London – it was beautiful and so refreshing.
Running is something I have enjoyed since a child and I guess my love for it has stayed the same.
I think it’s important in life to do something that you love and is very good for you. Think about what activities give you the greatest enjoyment and uplift your energy.
I encourage you to support your body and mind in your daily habits – it has such a positive knock-on effect in everything in your life.
So whether you’re, running for the hills today or rolling down the hills – stay in that ‘feel good” mode.
Your mindset can uplift you to the highest of highs or the lowest of lows, so please make sure you focus on the former, rather the latter here.
In the heat of the night, keep your cool by sorting out in your mind, what needs done in order to make things better for you.
What do you need and want to change?
What do you need to do today to keep you moving forward?
What will you commit to doing and how will you hold yourself accountable?
When it gets to the “enough is enough” stage, it’s amazing the amount of energy you can conjure up in order to change a tough situation around.
It’s you against you – there is never anyone else involved.
Prove to yourself today that you can definitely do what needs done and then get busy doing that. If you do that over the next 48 hours – WOW, what a real difference you will make to your life in just a short space of time. Imagine then, you kept going with that positive change for a year!
When you build up momentum in the pursuit of a dream or goal, it really does multiply your energies.
Mostly in the beginning of a “start up” phase, or for example, learning a new skill, it can take a whole lot of effort and focus to build those foundations and get things moving.
This is when the power of momentum really does help to make a positive difference.
So, keep up that consistency and channel your laser focus energy into what needs done and soon that magical momentum will kick in.
How far will you go?
To reach your dreams.
That burning desire,
Hope bursting at the seems.
How far can you see?
Your vision turn real.
Embraced in the living,
of the happiness you feel.
How far is the journey?
Each baby step you take.
Creates a new tomorrow,
Keeps you awake.
How far will you go?
I know you’ll go far.
I know you are there.
I see how happy you are.
Thank you to all the beautiful people from the very beautiful Philippines who visit this Clarabelle Blog. I have now completed thank you poems dedicated to the following countries so far and today, Philippines, this one is for you.
USA, India, Canada, Romania, thank you, your poems are shared on previous blog posts.
Here is a Poem for the people of the Philippines:
Happy sunny people,
from the Philippines you shine.
On this Clarabelle blog,
In my rhythm and rhyme.
You bring me great joy,
Because you visit me,
One day may I step foot,
In your beautiful country.
Sometimes you just come across work out there that is a perfect fit for you at this moment in time and when that does happen it feels so wonderful inside. I urge you to seek the perfect work that fits your circumstances right now, believe me, you will enjoy it so much more than the ultimate dream job at the wrong time or worse still that high flying job that gives you no rest and no life outside of work.
Think about it, think about securing the perfect fit for you and your life right now and enjoy the journey.
I was thinking today about some of the beautiful places I have travelled to, here are 10 of my happy memories:
1. Watching the morning sun rise at the Top of the Empire State Building, New York City, USA
2. Watching the Sunset at the top of Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
3. Bowling with school friends in Valkenburg, Holland
4. Watching the Dancing Fountains outside the Burj Kalifa, Dubai, UAE
5. Partying and having much fun with friends in Las Vegas, USA
6. Relaxing in the outside spas of The Blue Lagoon in Iceland
7. Having a lovely evening dinner outside in a family restaurant in Asolo, Italy
8. Riding on the back of a motorbike as the sun was setting heading into Venice, Italy
9. Watching a young couple get married and happily parading down the street in Mahdia, Tunisia
10. Partying with friends at the Tartan Army Week in New York City, USA
These are just some of the wonderful memories from places I have been so lucky enough to have travelled to over the years, yes, I am very lucky indeed.
Here is a little bit about the truly wonderfully inspiring Jerry (extract from his blog):
Jerry Nelson is an internationally recognized photojournalist.
His work has appeared in a wide variety of publications and news outlets including USAToday, CNN, Huffington Post, Upsurge, CBS, Dream Row, Earthwalkers and others.
He photographs and licenses images for all manner of commercial and editorial use as well as selling through this website.
***
Nelson writes, “I realize the dreams to travel were not mine alone. I have friends that have dreamed of traveling and trekking since the days that we all roamed the woods around Hot Springs, Virginia.
***
I realize that most of those friends will never have the opportunity to journey. Life gets in the way sometimes. But I have tried to share the majesty, intimacy and timelessness of places in my photographs in a way I hope everyone can relate to. I’ve tried to capture the reality of my childhood imaginations and share them with you. I realize that despite having grown up with these dreams, nobody needs to go on trips like I do.
But as we work through the daily routine of life at home, sometimes it helps to know that we could go. That it’s all really there.
Better yet, I hope my photographs inspire a few of you to actually follow your dreams and take your journey. I want to remind everyone that ordinary working people can visit remote places like I have. They do it all the time.
These are not expensive or difficult places to explore if you travel independently and stay with the locals.
And of course, there are endless experiences to be had in the wilderness areas of your own backyard.
You can’t begin a journey if you don’t step out. There is nothing mysterious about a rucksack. All you need are a couple changes of clothes, some hard earned time off and less money than you think.
Snake River Canyon Idaho
Get out there with me and watch the ravens fly through the dazzling glow of a remote slot canyon, watch the northern lights dance over the snows of Denali, walk with the lions and tigers in Lujan, roam the barrios in Buenos Aires looking for the next photograph, stand in the plaza as the Pope gets installed, watch in amazement during the Prayer Dance of the Native Cultural Center in Tennessee, break bread with veterans from the Falkland Islands war, listen for the choppers at the M*A*S*H set in Malibu, drift on The Snake River as we pass The Grand Tetons, stay silent in the Sonoran Desert as we wait for the Mexican drug cartel to appear, break bread with the Shoshone in Idaho, walk a knife-edge ridge in the Smokies and sit around the campfire in the Ozarks with other veterans. Fish for Pirrhana in the Amazon, watch autumn leaves fall in a gentle snowstorm in Patagonia, stand with me as 300 buffalo stampede towards us in Eusick, Washington, marvel at a palm tree swaying dark against a billion stars while camping on a moonless night in the middle of the South Pacific, sail a 16th century ship through the sound into open water, be ’embedded’ with OccupyDC during the winter, live with rugged miners in even more rugged Appalachia and drink Dr. Pepper on the front porch of the old Hatfield homestead in Mingo County.
It’s all there.
And the earth needs people who travel this way, who earn their time with its treasures, and promote its conservation.
***
Time is the most precious commodity we actually own.”
Payette Kayak
Below is Jerry’s Guest Blog Post which he wrote especially for this Clarabelle Blog:
Life Goes On
It grey the morning I stepped outside the door in a small town close to Roswell, New Mexico, on December 17, 2006. I shifted the backpack on my shoulders and walked to the end of the drive. Adjusting the straps again, I stepped into the street and walked to the corner. Looking back one more time, shifting the pack again, I walked down the street, through the town and across America.
I’m a Vietnam Veteran and while I didn’t see as much stuff as some others did, I was affected by the war and its aftermath. After keeping feelings, emotions and nightmares bottled up for years, I was admitted to a psychiatric hospitel in Staunton, Virginia where I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Ten days in the psych ward with nothing to do but read ended up being a blessing.
I came across an old issue of National Geographic that had an article about hiking the Appalchian Trail. That was what I needed to do. That’s what I wanted to do. Get out in the woods, get away from everything and everyone I knew. Alone with just my thoughts and the Creator for company. It never happened. Sometimes life gets in the way and for years there was always a reason not to pursue my dream: my wife she…my bills they…my job it… Well, you know how it goes.
In September 2005 my wife of 31 years filed for divorce. I didn’t want it so I sat on the paperwork hoping she would have a change of heart. She never did, and in April 2006 I signed the documents and handed them over. Later that year some friends who were living in New Mexico invited me out to spend the holidays with them so I wouldn’t have to be alone. With nothing better to do, I went. I got there on December 16 and that night felt the God of my understanding say I could take my walk.
I got to Washington DC on June 30th, 2007. Since then I’ve continued to travel, write and take pictures. You can see my work on my website, www.JourneyAmerica.org. I’m always encouraging people to follow my travels and challenging them to take their own journey. If you do, the people you’ll meet are amazing.
People like Omar in a Dallas ghetto who dreams of going to medical school so he can return and care for his neighbors and “Ms. Mamie” in Jackson, Mississippi who went back to school at 80 years old.
The spiritual life-lessons learned on a trip like that stay with you through life and become a guiding force and you learn that:
Life goes on and no matter what you’re going through I encourage you to “Join the Adventure”
Thank you Jerry for sharing a part of your story with us today here on this blog, it has been a real pleasure having you on board and you are most welcome anytime. If you would like to read more about Jerry and his adventures please head over to his blog http://www.journeyamerica.org I challenge you not to feel inspired.
If you are interested in becoming a guest blogger on this Clarabelle Blog, please let me know on the comments below or send me an email to claire@murraypeople.com
Thank you for being here, thank you for reading and thank you for your comments.
I want you to think about moving out of your “comfort zone” today and into your “learning/stretch zone”.
Get comfortable being uncomfortable and see where this takes you.
Life is an adventure
Life is a challenge
Life is to be lived
Life is to be loved
Life is for learning
Life is for creating
Life is for embracing
Life is for YOU
Learning/Stretch Zone
The best way you can achieve the above experiences is by doing things that will take you into your “learning/stretch zone”. I’m not talking here about pushing yourself so far that it makes you cry with terror from within, as being in the “panic zone” will NOT serve you well. I believe that by staying in your “comfort zone” you are not just standing still, you are actually going backwards, as other people move forward into their “learning/stretch zone”.
One Thing
What one thing could you do today that would move you out of your “comfort zone” and into your “learning/stretch zone”. Go on, seriously think about…..actually don’t just think about it, DO IT!!
Don’t make this a lazy day, make it a LIVELY day and you’ll definitely feel the difference.
In June 2010 I led a small leadership and personal development study tour to New York City. It was such an amazing experience and I learned so much. “Great minds think differently” is a quote that was displayed brightly on an a massive advertising sign in the middle of Times Square and I resonated with it at the time. On the Study Tour, we met up with other leaders and professional coaches whilst over there. We went from Wall Street to Princeton, New Jersey to Westchester to Hoboken to Staten Island, you name it we were there. We also got the wonderful opportunity to sail on my friend’s boat on the Hudson River and I was given a complimentary helicopter ride over the very stunning New York City by another friend of mine. My friend Maritza also got us a private tour around the United Nations building, that was really amazing.
I produced a whole brochure on the experience of leading and participating in the Leadership Study Tour and if you are interested in receiving a complimentary copy, please just email me and I will email it to you claire@murraypeople.com
Energy
The reason I am sharing this with you is because I came across the beginnings of a video I produced from the trip (see below). I always get so much energy from visiting New York City as it holds a very special place in my heart and this is were I also met my first love in 2007. We are not together now, for the right reasons I believe but we still remain distant friends.
In relation to the Youtube video, for anyone who is not familiar with the drink “Irn Bru”, it is a well known and very popular soda drink (pop) here in Bonny Scotland. It is often called Scotland’s Other National Drink!! I took it over for some of my American friends to try, hence Donna’s comment on the video of it tasting like “liquid candy“. 🙂
New York, New York I’ve been there five times now since 2007 and I know I will visit it again, I have many great connections over there and I am sure will be doing some work over there soon.
What place do you like to visit and why? I’d love to know.
May your day today be filled with beautiful loving energy, lots of love, Clarabelle
I was such a happy child, I honestly had a fabulous childhood it was so much fun, adventurous, exciting and full of imagination. I had lots of friends and most of the time we made up our own entertainment. We used our imagination to make up dances and songs, we played at football rounders, kick-the-can, hide and seek, beds (hopscotch), races, treasure hunt, lee voy, relay races, obstacles courses, we would climb up trees and make up hidden camps in the park. I am smiling now because my childhood was so so so so happy and I am very proud to say that I am still very close with some of those very special childhood friends almost 35 years later.
Clarabelle Age 6 and Brother Age 9
As a child I always remember being full of dreams and excited ambition, although it was probably portrayed as being too far fetched and a little ‘show off’ at times. I never interpreted it as that myself, I was just so happy and wanted to display my happiness to others, I suppose I wanted them to share my happiness too.
Clarabelle Dancing Age 5
My mum said to me that her memory of me as a child was that I was always singing, she said I would sing from the moment I woke up until I went to bed. The funny thing is I forgot I did that until my mum reminded me of it a couple of years ago. I forgot that I used to do that as a child and I guess I forgot what it was to be that child again singing, dancing and living in a very free-spirited way. However I am finding that the more I understand who I am as a person the more I am becoming that happy spirited child again, the person that I always was but somehow got lost along the way.
Clarabelle (Age 10) & Sister Leanne (Age 5)
At this moment in time, on my journey of life, I am really happy, I feel free-spirited, creative and mesmerised by the beauty in this world. It’s like I am seeing the world again through my childlike eyes, like when I was 7 years old again.
Clarabelle Age 11 (holding Courage Banner in pink)
As a child I loved things like catching my reflection in puddles on a rainy day, gazing up at the stars at night, staring at a summer nights sky and being wondered by all the magical colours and different shapes of clouds. I loved making daisy chains and I would look endlessly at each petal on the daisy, really feeling and smelling its fresh air scent. I loved the great outdoors and just being free, I guess just being me, living in each very moment and seeing each and everything around me as magical.
Now I know why I was a happy child. 🙂 🙂 🙂
May your day today be filled with magical childlike moments that allow you to see the beauty in everything around you. Lots and lots of love to you today, Clarabelle
Sometimes I feel like I could just explode with excitement and happiness and yesterday (05.01.13) was one of those days. So I grabbed a pen and paper wrote the following poem (well 8 in a row actually). Embrace life and all of its adventure, even in the toughest of tough times, there is great learning to be had. Open your arms to the world, live this life for you and nobody else. Have fun, dance in the moment and be brave in all that you do. May your day be filled with love and laughter. Much love to you Clarabelle.
life is an adventure
Life is an Adventure
There’s fun in my heart, waiting to escape;
The invisible boundaries, cover it with red tape.
I’m bursting with song, love and laughter;
I’m on the move, towards happy ever after.
As I free my spirit, I wake up to the light;
The orange bird dances, wings spread in full flight.
Clarabelle Online Magazine 