About ten years ago, Lyndsie and I went to some classes together, where we were learning how to have an abundant mindset. I had always admired Lyndsie from afar, but I had no idea how hard of a fighter she could be.
About two years ago, Lyndsie found herself alone, and pregnant with her sixth child. Sick, nauseous, and brokenhearted, Lyndsie remembered a favorite quote of hers from a lady in her church, Marjorie Hinkley.
“The only way to get through life is to laugh your way through it. You either have to laugh or cry. I prefer to laugh. Crying gives me a headache.”
In the months that followed, Lyndsie grew and stretched as a person. She was able to keep her children and her home and work from home taking in other mothers’ children during the day to help pay for expenses, and is currently studying to be a teacher at WGU.
So I had to ask, what keeps you grounded and motivated and strong through all these obstacles?
Lyndsie: The most important tool in my tool box is prayer. I know that prayer with my Heavenly Father is powerful and that I can pray anywhere, at any time.
The second most important tool in my box is my supportive network of friends, family, and neighbors. I know that I have to be open and honest with everyone about what my needs are and I have to be willing to ask for help. I say, here is what I am doing, and here is how much I can do.
Third, I very strongly recommend visiting with a licensed professional. It has made such a difference in my life, that when I was crumpled in a ball, exhausted and barely able to think, that I had the assistance of someone who could take me through the steps of what I needed to do next.
For example, one of the first techniques Dr. Paul taught me was to feel all of my feelings, and then let them go. He taught me how to get outside of the situation. He said it was good to feel my feelings, but not process them over and over again. As I was able to feel my feelings as an outside observer, eventually the feelings passed and I was able to move on to whatever I needed to do next.
Fourth, to-do lists. They may be stressful to some people, but for me, they are actually quite relaxing to my mind. I love to see what all I have on my plate so that I can sort through them and determine what the most important things are.
The last tool in my toolbox is taking time to capture moments of joy. There is so much natural beauty in this world, just like this beautiful spring day that we are having right now! And when I see my children serving each other, or doing some amazing things, I love to talk to them, right in the moment, and tell them how awesome they are and how much I appreciate them.
Jessica Caswell-Sellers
June 2, 2018 at 2:21 pmLyndsie, I just have to tell you that your story is creating hope for others! I was talking to a friend last night who has been struggling to make ends meet and after I told him what you are doing, he got a bit of a sparkle in his eye and said, THIS is what I have been looking for. I know I can do this! Love. you so much for taking the high road and focusing on the positive. It is a common trait of people who are successful and I have no doubt that you will succeed