My attention was drawn to the heading in a local news article from News24 – Brace for a bumpier 2023: Experts predict a tougher year and global recession. This made me think about the cost of living and how it continues to rise, and that there’s not much hope that it will ease this year. The cost of living and several other forces are set to shape South Africa’s economy, the biggest being the country’s energy predicament. Experts also speak about taking the necessary steps to help weather the storm and warns that there’s no sure-fire way to position your investments during a recession.
I might not have the powers to control the economy but I know that I have control to invest in my personal self (read my blog https://hensblooms.com/2022/11/27/21-days-of-investing-in-yourself/ previously posted ) and that it will help me reach my personal goals and plans for 2023. I’m quite aware that goals and plans can be derailed, but I’m cognisance that planning can help to brace for circumstances that often happen unexpectedly. I find myself working at or striving to be better in everything I do. For me it is always good to do introspection and it’s always a time to reflect on the good and the bad. I know I come short and that I can always show more kindness and compassion towards others. For me it is very important to continue planning, with good practices, change the undesired and hopefully it will help me to brace for the bumpier times ahead.
In Robin Sharma’s book, The Greatness Guide, he writes about Grace under Pressure – explaining how no life is perfect and that we all face challenges but also that we all have the power to choose to rise above our external circumstances.
May we all find the power to rise above our circumstances, brace for the hurdles ahead and continue to embrace ourselves.
hensblooms 
18 replies on “Bracing and Embracing Life.”
You are right, Henrietta, it is how we deal with our problems that will assure a positive outcome.
Joanna
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Thank you for your comment Joanna, much appreciated.
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You are welcome.
Joanna
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That’s so true Henrietta – to rise above our circumstances! It’s certainly not always smooth sailing, but I choose to be positive (and reach for any possible ray of light whenever possible) … like watching a light misty rain and birds at the feeder in our garden – all while I got up at 05:00 to do the laundry (thanks to loadshedding) 😉. Stunning photo in your post today!
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I love your positive attitude, and that not even load shedding can dampened it 🙂 Thank you, the photo is taken on top of the Northcliff Ridge in Johannesburg, I’m always so impressed with the scenic views up there and it never disappoint.
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This is a positive and beautiful outlook of hard times that are already coming. Thank you for your positivity my friend. Love and hugs, Joni 🌹
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Thank you lovely Joni 🤗❤️ I’m so appreciative of your kindness and for stopping by here on my blog.
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It is my pleasure Henrietta. I love your positive attitude and I especially enjoyed this post. You also seem like you have the sweetest family. I enjoy your photographs as well. Blessings, love and hugs
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I’m so thankful to be surrounded by beautiful people like you Joni, and especially thankful for my family too, I’m tremendously blessed. I’m grabbing all that blessings, love and hugs coming from you and returning them to you too, thank you💕🌸🤗
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You are so welcome my friend. Thank you for your gracious comment. I feel the same way about you and my friends on WordPress, Instagram and Twitter. Everyone has something to offer and it is a blessing to have access to such kindness. Your positivity is a blessing to me Henrietta. We have much to be thankful for as well. Thank you for your love and hugs they are very appreciated. ❤️
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perfect — this is how adversity makes us stronger ❤
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That’s for sure ❤️
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It’s all about our circle of control and doing the best we can within it. Great post, Henrietta.
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Such an important point, thank you Mark. Best wishes for 2023.
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Well said! Like you I am also an admirer of Robin Sharma’s work!✨
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Thank you 🌸💕 Robin Sharma is indeed an inspiration.
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Thank you for sharing!!!… life is in a constant state of change, every generation has to face it, the old normal is gone, the new is still a mystery…. instead of making resolutions, I sit down with a cup of tea and determine what is important to me, what I need above all else and prepare myself accordingly… I may not need it because someone else has it… 🙂
Hope all is well in your part of the universe and until we meet again..
May love and laughter light your days,
and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours,
wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world
with joy that long endures.
May all life’s passing seasons
bring the best to you and yours!
(Irish Saying)
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Thank you for the beautiful Irish Saying and for sharing what you do instead of making resolutions. I also don’t do resolutions, instead I do introspection and often reflect on the good and the bad.
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