Spirituality for the Politically Incorrect

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Hello and welcome to today’s episode where we skip the fluff, challenge the narratives, and dive deep into the soul work that actually transforms your life.Today we’re going to talk about something you won’t find on most meditation apps or spiritual influencer reels—emotional buttons. I think you know what I’m talking about… those triggers that, when pushed, bypass your logic and throw you into an instant emotional reaction.Someone cuts you off in traffic. Your partner interrupts you mid-sentence. You walk into a cluttered room after a long day—and boom. You're suddenly angry, annoyed, or just shut down. It happens fast, almost like a reflex. But here’s the spiritual truth: No one is pushing your buttons. You’re reacting to your own unhealed stuff.So, let’s talk about how to disconnect these buttons—not repress your emotions, but actually understand, rewire, and ultimately reclaim your power.Know Thy Triggers (Because They Know You)We all have emotional buttons—but they’re not universal. Yours may be triggered by a late text message, while someone else couldn’t care less. That’s the first clue: These reactions are personal. They're built from your own experiences and internal beliefs.The first step is simple but not easy: Observe yourself.Start paying attention. When you get angry, anxious, or offended, hit the pause button. Ask yourself:* What just happened?* Who was involved?* What was said?* What emotion came up?And—here’s the kicker—does this feel familiar? Because chances are, it’s not the first time this button’s been pushed.You’re not crazy or broken for reacting. But you are responsible if you want to change.Getting Real with Yourself (And Maybe a Few Trusted Friends)Self-awareness isn’t always a solo project. Sometimes we need mirrors—people we trust to tell us the truth.Ask a few close friends or family members: “What do you think sets me off emotionally?” You might be shocked. What you think is a “normal reaction” might look like an overreaction to others.But don’t take it personally—use it. It’s feedback and that’s valuable.Then, take what you’ve learned and make a list. Write out your emotional triggers. Don’t judge them, just name them. You can’t heal what you won’t face. This alone can be a revealing exercise.The Hidden Cost of Being TriggeredThe truth is, your emotional buttons are hurting you.They’re not just an inconvenience. They’re blocking your peace, your growth, your success, and even your spiritual evolution. Think about it:* Are your buttons damaging your relationships?* Making you look unprofessional?* Sabotaging your confidence?Every time you react instead of respond, you give away your power. Reacting and responding may seem similar, but they come from very different places within you.Reacting is often immediate, emotional, and unconscious—it's a knee-jerk impulse driven by old wounds, habits, or ego defenses. It usually happens without thought and often leads to regret or escalation.Responding, on the other hand, is intentional. It’s a conscious choice made after pausing, observing, and considering the situation. Responding comes from awareness rather than reactivity—from the higher self rather than the wounded self. In essence, reacting is being controlled by the moment; responding is taking control of the moment.Uncover the Origin StoryNow here’s where it gets deeper: Where did these buttons come from?Childhood? A past betrayal? A controlling parent? A traumatic event?Dig into the why. For example, if being ignored sends you into a rage, ask yourself: When in my past did I feel invisible? That question alone can lead to profound healing.This is shadow work. And it’s sacred.Rewrite the ScriptNow that you have identified your triggers, it’s time to ask:What would a healthy, empowered response look like?Not the spiritual bypass version. Not the fake smile. But the real you—responding with awareness, not reaction.Play out scenarios in your mind. “Next time I feel disrespected, I’m gonna pause, breathe, and speak my truth calmly.”It is possible to interrupt your emotional reactions. Mentally speak to yourself by name, “Nancy, stop, I’m handling this.” Then take a step back, evaluate and respond. And remember, silence is a response if that is what is the best response is in a particular situation.It won’t be perfect at first. But every time you pause instead of explode, you weaken the old wiring.Practice, Fail, RepeatSpiritual mastery doesn’t mean you never get triggered. It means you notice it faster and recover quicker.You’re building new emotional reflexes and that takes time.Be patient with yourself. Your nervous system has to rewire. Your soul is learning to lead. And every time you choose consciousness over chaos, you gain ground.This isn’t self-help stuff. This is warrior-level soul work.Learning your emotional buttons—and choosing not to be ruled by them—isn’t just good psychology. It’s good spirituality. It’s what Christ meant when he said, “Be in the world, but not of it.” It’s what every true spiritual master teaches: Know thyself. Master thyself. Be thyself.So, the next time someone presses your buttons, remember—they’re not the enemy. They’re just showing you where you're still enslaved.Take the opportunity to grow.Thanks for tuning in today. If this episode hit home for you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And as always—stay positive, grateful and true to your soul. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome back to Spirituality for the Politically Incorrect—the podcast where we blend the raw realities of everyday life with the timeless wisdom of the soul.If you're feeling like the world is spinning faster than ever, you're not alone. We’re living in a time of extreme uncertainty—economically, politically, emotionally, spiritually. And the truth is, life isn't always fair. But what if I told you that you were never meant to face these challenges alone?Today we’re talking about coping strategies—but not just the kind you'll find in psychology textbooks. We're going deeper. We're talking about spiritual coping strategies—tools that allow you to not only survive but spiritually transcend the chaos around you.So let’s get into it. First,1. The Human Experience… with Divine HelpIt’s true—disappointment, fear, and confusion have always been part of the human experience. Whether it was ancient humans facing wild animals or modern folks dealing with inflation, divorce, or health issues, suffering isn't new.But neither is divine assistance.When life hits hard, you have the right to call to Archangel Michael, the defender of faith and protector of light. Simply saying, “Archangel Michael, help me now!” is more powerful than you realize. His legions of blue-flame angels are standing by—not to remove the test, but to empower you to meet it with strength and courage.You are not alone in your battles, and you never have been.2. Problem-Solving… with the I AM PresencePsychologists say that there are two ways to cope: productively or dysfunctionally. You can face the issue—or spiral into brooding, denial, or blame. Sound familiar? We see a lot of that these days.But here's the twist: when you remember who you are as a divine being, you can tap into the I AM Presence within, that inner spark of God who knows the solution before the problem even arises.Instead of brooding, go within. Firmly tell yourself to “Stop!” Then quiet yourself, meditate, breathe deeply and say:“Beloved I AM Presence, show me the way.”Suddenly, you’re not reacting from fear—you’re responding from clarity. That’s divine problem-solving.3. Balance… and the Power of GratitudeLoss and grief are part of life. Relationships end, careers shift, loved ones pass. The emotional stages are real—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance.But here’s a spiritual secret: Gratitude shifts grief.Even in sorrow, you can say, “Thank you for the time I had. Thank you for the love I experienced. Thank you for the growth this pain is teaching me. Thank you for life.”Gratitude is not denial—it’s divine reframing. It raises your vibration so you are able to handle the situation in a higher state of mind. And it creates balance, giving you permission to both feel and heal.4. Moving Forward… by Transcending Victim ConsciousnessWithout coping strategies, we stay stuck—replaying the same problems, blaming the world, waiting for someone else to rescue us.But victimhood is a trap. And it’s one you don’t have to stay in.The spiritual path invites you to reclaim your power and say: “I AM empowered. I AM a co-creator.”Now, does this mean that you deny negative feelings or grief? Absolutely not. Allow yourself to feel the emotions but don’t identify with them. Emotions are energy-in-motion.Acknowledge them and let them pass through you. The stages of grief can be moved through naturally if you do not cling to the negatives and realize that those emotions are not your reality—they’re just energies passing through you.You’ve fallen? Get up. Dust off your soul. Call on the angels. Decree your victory. Ask your Higher Self to blaze the violet flame through your limitations, transmute the pain and move forward.Every trial is a training ground for your ascension.5. Resilience… and the Alchemy of the SoulResilience isn’t just a mental trait—it’s spiritual muscle. And you build it every time you turn to God instead of fear. Every time you choose prayer over panic. Every time you pick up your spiritual sword instead of laying down in despair.Want to build resilience?* Start your day with a simple I AM affirmation and repeat it until your vibration raises:“I AM the Resurrection and the Life of my courage, my peace, my purpose.”* Make time for silence.* Decree light into every challenge.* Stay connected to spiritual community.* And remember: you are stronger than you think—because God lives in you. And the power within you is greater than any power outside of you.Coping strategies are more than survival tools—they’re spiritual practices. They help you navigate this imperfect world with inner strength, divine insight, and a heart that refuses to give up.So, next time life throws you a curveball, remember this:You're not powerless.You're not alone.And you are not a victim.You are a spiritual warrior, backed by archangels and many angels, filled with the light of your I AM Presence and Christ within, and capable of transcending any difficulty with grace.Thank you for joining me today. If this episode resonated with you, share it, leave a review, and come back next week as we keep pushing through the nonsense—together—with truth, fire, and love.Until next time, stay grounded… and draw down Spirit into your life. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode. I’m so glad you’re here with me today, because we’re diving into something that affects every one of us—whether we think we’re “goal-setters” or not. And that is: the difference between setting short-term, achievable goals… and setting major, Soul-level goals that define the trajectory of our lives.Two Pivotal ExperiencesLet me begin by taking you back to two moments that shaped my perspective throughout my life.The first one was when I was attending grade school and when the teacher gave the class an assignment to write out and turn in three wishes if I could have anything at all—no limits.Well, I thought very long and hard to come up with the three things that were most important to me. And this one assignment turned out to actually “set the sail for my life.”I turned in my answers:1) All men know God2) Everyone has perfect health3) There is peace on earthFor me, this pretty much described what I later called “living in a Golden Age on earth.” When the teacher read some of the answers students turned in, I was shocked to hear the mundane answers about wanting a new bicycle or certain clothes, etc., etc. I thought, “surely they didn’t understand the question.”Then later, when I was in my twenties, full of spiritual passion and attending a personal development seminar. At one point, the leader posed this question: “What is the single most important goal you want to achieve in this life?”Well, I took that question seriously too, just as I had the earlier assignment. I thought long and hard about what mattered most. And when it was my turn to answer, I said—without hesitation—“Total spiritual enlightenment.”I’ll never forget the leader’s response. He paused, then said something like,"Well, maybe you should set a goal that’s a little more achievable."At the time, that response stunned me because I felt it was more achievable than three wishes I had in grade school! In my mind, at least I had more control over this goal than one that involved the whole world.But over the years, I’ve come to realize that I wasn’t wrong in either case—I just had a different lens. You see, we live in a world that celebrates immediate results, quick wins, 30-day transformations. And yes, those things have their place.But what about the long game? What about the deep soul goals that aren’t achieved in a month—or even in a decade—maybe not even in a lifetime?That moment in the seminar taught me something. There’s a difference between setting goals that are realistic and time-bound—and setting directional goals, goals that point your compass toward your highest self. You may never “check them off” in the traditional sense, but they guide everything you do.Let’s call these two kinds of goals:One, Short-term targets – Goals that produce tangible, measurable outcomes. “Lose 10 pounds,” “Buy a house,” “Finish the book.”And Number 2, Soul goals – Aspirational, defining, and often lifelong. “Awaken my full spiritual potential.” “Live in alignment with divine purpose.” “Be a vessel for God’s light on Earth,” or “Total spiritual enlightenment.”Soul goals don’t expire. They evolve with you.And here’s the irony: those “unrealistic” goals? They often become the fuel that helps you achieve the smaller, practical goals too. When you’re living with a big vision, the daily grind becomes sacred.Spiritual PerspectiveNow, let’s take it even deeper. From a spiritual perspective, every soul comes into this life with a divine blueprint—a purpose that spans many lifetimes. So, when you feel a calling to set a massive, even otherworldly goal like enlightenment, don’t dismiss it. Honor it. It may not be fully achieved in this one life, but it can define the quality of this life.The ascended masters didn’t achieve their status by playing small. They lived big visions, and they lived them daily, moment by moment.And let me say this clearly: If your goal is “total spiritual enlightenment,” then you’re already on the path. Because it’s not about arriving at some mountaintop moment—it’s about who you become as you walk the path.Practical GuidanceSo, here’s a little exercise for you:List 3 short-term goals that are measurable and time-specific. These keep your momentum going.And then, write down your soul-level goal—the one that sets your heart on fire, even if it feels “unrealistic.” Let it be big. Let it be bold. Let it be yours. Take your time and give it some quality time.Then ask yourself: How can I align my short-term actions with my long-term soul direction?When your short-term goals serve your soul goals, you’re not just accomplishing things—you’re evolving.So, here’s my encouragement to you today:Don’t let the world’s addiction to “achievable” goals rob you of your birthright to dream big.Let your soul speak. Let your Higher Self set the tone.Yes, set goals that pay the bills and build the life you want—but never forget to also set goals that build the you your soul came here to become.Remember, Soul goals don’t expire. They evolve with you. For instance, my life goal has evolved to ascending to permanent reunion with God at the end of this life, becoming an ascended master no longer needing to reincarnate on the earth and to be of much greater service to God and the world from the higher realms.Thanks for joining me today. And if this episode sparked something in you, I’d love to hear about your soul goals you’re setting. Reach out, share your vision, and keep walking that sacred path.Until next time—dream bigger than what’s “achievable.” Because with God, with faith, and with your soul leading the way—all things are possible. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome to today’s episode where we are going to explore a transformative movement that's capturing hearts worldwide: the shift towards minimalist living, digital detoxing, and the allure of tiny homes.As our lives become increasingly digital and fast-paced, many are seeking solace in simplicity, nature, and intentional living.So, let’s explore this quiet but powerful revolution that’s taking root all around the world: the return to less.Less noise.Less clutter.Less digital overwhelm.And why it’s becoming more than just a trend, but a profound lifestyle change embraced by everyday individuals and celebrities alike.Let’s be honest — most of us are carrying way too much.Our homes are filled with stuff we don’t use. Our minds are crammed with content we don’t need. And our hearts are often too crowded to even realize what we truly desire.Tech was supposed to simplify our lives — but somewhere along the way, it became the noise we can’t escape. Social media updates, endless emails, ads, notifications... it’s like trying to have a peaceful inner life while standing in the middle of Times Square.Did you know that studies show the average person now checks their phone over 100 times a day? Our attention spans have dropped to less than that of a goldfish. And anxiety, depression, and burnout are skyrocketing.Is it any wonder that more and more people are saying: Enough. Enough with the noise. Enough with the clutter. Enough already!Could reclaiming simplicity be the key to reclaiming your peace, your creativity, and your soul?The Rise of Minimalist Living and Tiny HomesIn recent years, there's been a significant uptick in people downsizing their lives—both physically and digitally. Tiny homes, often ranging from just 100 to 400 square feet, have become symbols of freedom, sustainability, and financial independence. They're not just about living in a smaller space but about embracing a lifestyle that values experiences over possessions.This minimalist approach extends beyond housing. There’s digital detoxing—reducing screen time and unplugging from constant connectivity. This is becoming essential for mental well-being. Together, these shifts represent a collective yearning for a more grounded, intentional way of life. And you just might be surprised by how much less you actually need in your life.Celebrities Embrace the Simple LifeThis movement isn't limited to the general public. Several celebrities have made headlines recently for stepping away from the limelight to embrace simpler, rural lifestyles. For example:Amanda Seyfried, known for her roles in Mean Girls and Mamma Mia!, relocated from Los Angeles to a farm in upstate New York. She describes the move as essential for her mental health, providing privacy, peace, and a more balanced life. Her farm is home to horses, goats, chickens, and other animals, offering her children hands-on experiences with nature and responsibility .Tom Green, the comedian known for his offbeat humor and MTV antics of the Y2K era, has left behind his Hollywood lifestyle after 20 years to embrace a quieter, rural existence on a 150-acre farm in Ontario, Canada. The 53-year-old now lives among chickens, a donkey, and a 1,500-pound mule named Fanny, finding solace in the simplicity of farm life and the proximity to his family.Another example: Adrianne Curry, winner of America's Next Top Model Season 1, left Hollywood to pursue a "normal rural" life in Whitefish, Montana. She now runs her own lifestyle blog from her remote location, embracing a quieter, more grounded existence.These stories highlight a shared desire among individuals, regardless of fame, to reconnect with nature, prioritize mental health, and live more intentionally.I have a story also. Seventeen years ago, my husband and I decided to set up a home in Ecuador where we spend much of our time during the year. It’s definitely minimalist living in beautiful nature and peaceful living. And yet we find after all these years of traveling back and forth, we have accumulated way too much in our Ecuador home. So, we too are feeling the need to reduce the amount of “things” we have accumulated.The Broader Impact and How to Begin Your JourneyThe appeal of minimalist living and digital detoxing lies in the freedom and clarity they offer. By reducing physical and digital clutter, individuals often find increased creativity, improved mental health, and a deeper connection to their surroundings.Now, you certainly don’t have to live in a tiny home, but if you're inspired to embark on this journey, here are a few ways you can begin:* First, Start Small: Begin by decluttering a single room or reducing screen time during meals.* Embrace Nature: Spend time outdoors, even if it's just a daily walk in a local park.* Consider Downsizing: Reflect on your living space and whether a smaller, more efficient home could meet your needs.* Set Digital Boundaries: Set specific times to check emails or social media, allowing for uninterrupted work and personal time.Remember, the goal isn't perfection, but progress towards a life that aligns with your values and brings you peace.So, I want to leave you with this thought today:You don’t have to do it perfectly. You don’t have to become a full-time monk in the mountains. You just have to start.Maybe it’s decluttering one drawer. Maybe it’s turning your phone off an hour earlier tonight.Maybe it’s just asking: What do I really want more of in my life? And then making a decision to make space for that.Thank you for joining me today. As we've seen, the movement towards minimalist living and digital detoxing is more than a trend. It's a response to the complexities of modern life, offering a path to greater fulfillment and balance.If this episode sparked something inside you, I’d love to hear about it!Share it with a friend who's craving more simplicity too, and leave a review, or send me a message about how you’re creating more space for your soul in this busy world.Until next time, stay grounded, stay spacious, and stay true to what matters most. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Hello and welcome back to Spirituality for the Politically Incorrect where we explore the journey of spiritual evolution, inner truth, and living with conscious purpose. Today we’re diving into a quiet revolution happening in homes across the world: the rise of wellness spaces.No, I’m not talking about “safe spaces,” but wellness spaces—sanctuaries for self-care, spiritual renewal, and soul alignment.What Do I Mean By Wellness Spaces?Well, you’ve probably seen them on Pinterest or Instagram—nooks with crystals, meditation cushions, diffusers glowing with calming oils, or entire rooms designed for yoga, breathwork, or prayer. But this is about more than just aesthetics.This popular trend signals a cultural shift. People are reclaiming their space—not just physically, but energetically. Our homes are no longer just places to sleep or eat, but sacred grounds where we recalibrate, reconnect, and remember who we really are.Why Now? The Cultural & Spiritual ContextYou might ask, “Why is this happening now?” Well, it’s certainly not new. You yourself may already have a space set aside in your home for meditation or prayer. But this is a popular topic trending right now.There’s growing disillusionment with traditional institutions—religious and otherwise. We see at the same time that there's an expanding hunger for inner peace and spiritual connection.Now, many do find this in a church, temple or synagogue setting where you have a shared experience with those of like mind. But, let’s face it, there are many people who will never go to a church or place of worship yet still are spiritual.We are definitely in the age of personalization, where people are awakening to spirituality as an inward journey whether you share the experience with others or whether you create a specific sacred space in your home.In many ways, these home sanctuaries are modern altars—a space to return to yourself and, by extension, to the Divine. You could say this trend is part of a larger homecoming—back to the soul.The Psychology of Sacred SpaceStudies show our environments directly influence our mood, focus, and well-being. Creating a designated space for spiritual practice or stillness—however small—tells your subconscious, “This matters.” It becomes a ritual of honoring your inner life.So How Do You Create a Sacred Space in Your Home?* Well, you could simply convert a corner of your room with just a place to sit comfortably, a candle, and a journal. Or you can use a closet, an attic or any space that is vacant or could be made vacant.* You can use scent to anchor your practices, such as incense or essential oils.* You can place meaningful items—pictures, a spiritual text, a quote that realigns you, or a list of affirmations and decrees you wish to speak.* You can have a source for meditative music if that helps you get into the meditative state.The Modern Temple WithinRemember, this current trend is to remind us that the sacred is already here—it’s within you. And your physical space can either support or distract from that truth.You don’t need to seek out a monastery or go to the mountaintop to meet God. The kingdom of God is within you and your “temple” might just be in the corner of your living room.How Do You Make Your Entire Home a Sanctuary?So let’s talk about how you can make your entire home a sanctuary.You can transform your entire home, including the boundaries of your property, into a sacred sanctuary by consciously invoking divine protection and radiating the energy of your Higher Self—your I AM Presence, the God within you.Each day, take a moment to stand in your space, or anywhere in your home, and call forth the pure spiritual energy, the dazzling white light of the I AM Presence, to fill every room. Visualize it cleansing and charging the atmosphere, infusing your home with light, love, and the protective presence of the angels. Follow this with visualizing each space with the violet transmuting flame of joy filling every room.You can affirm something like: “I AM the living light of God in this home. Only that which is of Divine Love, Peace, and Harmony may enter or remain.” You can also bless those who come into your space by declaring, “I AM the pure radiance of Divine Love surrounding and uplifting all who enter here.”This spiritual “garment” of light not only protects your home but offers comfort and healing to your guests—wrapping them in a sustaining energy that remains with them even after they leave.When practiced consistently, your home becomes more than just a refuge—it becomes a living temple of spiritual power and peace.So, as you look around your home, ask yourself:“What would it look like to create a space that reflects the peace I’m seeking?”It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be intentional.Thanks for tuning in today. If you’ve created a wellness space of your own, or you’re inspired to start, I’d love to hear about it. Leave a comment on the episode page, and as always—keep the flame lit and stay true to your journey. Blessings. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe

Introduction:Hello, dear listeners, and welcome back to another episode of Spirituality for the Politically Incorrect. In today’s world, many people are experiencing immense challenges. Whether it’s global changes, social unrest, or personal hardships, the shifting energies of our time can bring out the best—and sometimes the worst—in people. As emotions run high and tensions increase, you may find yourself encountering more rudeness, impatience, or outright nastiness than ever before.But how should you respond? Should you retaliate? Ignore?Or is there another way to handle these situations—one that allows you to maintain your dignity while also fostering greater understanding? Today, we’ll explore the practical ways to deal with difficult people while keeping your composure and grace intact.So, let’s get right into It.No one really enjoys dealing with rude or spiteful people. Our immediate instinct is often to avoid them altogether. However, that’s not always possible—especially if the difficult person is a coworker, your boss, a family member, or a customer. Since avoidance isn’t always an option, how can you respond in a way that preserves your inner peace and self-respect?Responding vs. ReactingWell, let’s begin with a clear understanding of the difference between responding vs. reacting.Responding and reacting to a negative encounter may seem similar, but they are very different. Reacting is often immediate, emotional, and impulsive driven by defensiveness, frustration, anger, or hurt, and it usually escalates the situation rather than resolving it.Responding, on the other hand, involves a conscious choice. It requires pausing, assessing the situation objectively, and choosing words or actions that align with dignity and self-control. A response is thoughtful and intentional, aiming for resolution rather than striking back. By choosing to respond rather than react, you maintain your inner peace and prevent unnecessary conflict.Spiritual PerspectiveNow, from a spiritual perspective, responding comes from a place of “centeredness,” of having a certain level of mastery over your emotions. Think of the concept of “pushing your buttons,” These “buttons” are usually triggering areas in our psychology or past experiences where we feel we have to defend ourselves.Probably the greatest teaching I have heard on mastering our emotions is from the master Saint Germain. He says that we should never be surprised, disappointed or hurt. Now, I know, that sounds like a tall order. And there are people who say, “I’m human. I have emotions. I don’t want to deny them.”But controlling your emotions is not the same as denying or “stuffing” them. Rather, it is, again, being centered in your Higher Self, the spiritual part of you that isn’t surprised, disappointed or hurt.Now it doesn’t mean that you feel nothing. Rather it means that when one of these emotions arise, you do not embrace it. You don’t wallow in your disappointment or hurt or surprise. You acknowledge the hurt or disappointment or surprise but remain, or move back into, your centeredness.Now, has the majority of humanity mastered this? No, but if you are on a spiritual path, you definitely want to strive to stay at one with your Higher Self—God within you.So, let’s break it down like this, with a step-by-step analysis of what you can do when someone is being difficult, nasty or verbally attacking you in some way.Know that it’s Okay to Ask What’s WrongConsider that sometimes, a person’s rudeness isn’t personal. They may be overwhelmed, stressed, or dealing with private struggles. By calmly and compassionately asking if they’re okay, you might shift the energy of the situation.It reminds me of a story I heard a man tell of how he was riding a transit in one of the cities and another man who was with three children was in the same car with him. The children were acting out, being loud and obnoxious, running around clearly bothering others, and the father seemed unphased. He just sat there and didn’t do anything to curtail their behavior.The man telling the story was thinking what a poor father this man was—not disciplining his children when they were clearly disturbing others. So, he had had enough and he confronted the father—in a gentle but direct way—and the father immediately apologized. He said that the children had just lost their mother in the hospital, and they were having a really hard time coping with it. And of course, that meant the father had just lost his wife. So, we never really know what someone might be facing to cause negative or rude reactions.Of course, this doesn’t mean excusing bad behavior. But showing genuine concern can sometimes help the person become aware of their own actions and spare you from judging a situation that may not be as it appears. In other words, genuinely asking in order to help is an example of responding rather than reacting.Stay Objective and ask yourself, “Is the Nastiness Worth a Response?”Before reacting, take a step back. Ask yourself: Is what they’re saying or doing actually worth engaging with?Many times, rudeness is not even about you—it’s a reflection of another’s inner turmoil. Responding in kind only escalates the negativity. Instead, by viewing the situation objectively, you can decide whether it even deserves your energy.Be Careful not to add Fuel to the FireReacting with anger or aggression will only intensify the conflict. If someone is dramatic or intentionally rude, the best thing you can do is remain calm and refuse to be dragged into their emotional storm. Maintaining your dignity is far more powerful than engaging in unnecessary conflict.Rather, Address the Issue with a Calm ConversationIf rudeness persists, it’s okay to address it. Calmly ask the person if they realize how their words or actions are affecting you. Sometimes, they may not even be aware. If they care, they will likely adjust their behavior. If they don’t, that tells you everything you need to know about how close you want to be with them in the future.Lead with Kindness (Even When It’s Hard)This may sound counterintuitive, but kindness can be incredibly disarming. When faced with someone’s negativity, responding with patience and understanding can sometimes soften their approach.While this doesn’t work in every situation, and you shouldn’t tolerate continued mistreatment, being a role model for dignity can sometimes inspire change in the other person. Remember, you can’t change anyone else, but you can change yourself. Your reactions can inspire change in others.If Necessary, Avoid ToxicitySometimes, the best response is no response. If a person continually treats you with disrespect and shows no willingness to change, it may be best to step away.Remember, your energy and peace of mind are precious. Protecting yourself from negativity isn’t avoidance—it’s self-care.Don’t Gossip About the SituationNow it can be tempting to vent about a rude person to others, but this often does more harm than good. Gossip can escalate tensions and reflect poorly on you. Instead, if the situation needs addressing, go directly to the appropriate people—whether that’s an HR department, a manager, or a trusted mentor or counselor.However, if someone’s behavior crosses the line into bullying or harassment, speaking up to the right authorities is crucial.Life definitely presents us with many opportunities to practice patience, wisdom, and grace. Responding to rudeness with dignity doesn’t mean being weak—it means choosing strength through composure. Every difficult encounter is a chance to reinforce the kind of person you want to be.So, the next time you face rudeness, take a deep breath, stay objective, and remember: your response defines you, not them.Thank you for being with me today. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who might need this message. And as always, stay grounded, stay kind, and keep shining your light in the world.Until next time, take care and be well. This is a public episode. 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Hello again and welcome back to the podcast. If you've been following along, you know we've been diving deep into the theme of change—why it’s necessary, how to make it happen, and what gets in the way. And remember, the importance of the power of decision from my last podcast.Today, though, I want to shift gears a bit and give you something super practical: a step-by-step plan to make a real change in just 30 days.Yes, it’s totally possible, and I’m going to show you how!Why 30 Days?Think about it—we’ve all done little 30-day challenges before, whether it was trying a new diet, committing to an exercise routine, or even just giving up TV for a while. Even if we don’t stick with it forever, the results are usually worth it. So, imagine if we took that same principle and applied it to multiple areas of our lives all at once. That’s where the magic happens.Today, I’m going to walk you through a plan that will help you create new habits, eliminate distractions, and truly transform different areas of your life—all in just 30 days. Here it is:Step 1: Choose Your 30-Day ChallengesLet’s break it down into different categories. I recommend picking one challenge from each category, but feel free to customize this to fit your life. And remember, you might want to start small in some areas while maybe going bigger in other areas. Don’t overwhelm yourself and end up quitting midway because it is too hard or complicated to do all at once. Here are the categories:1. Adjust Your Finances – Maybe you need to cut back on spending, or start tracking every dollar, or set a savings goal. Whatever you choose to do, commit to it for 30 days.As an example, if you have debt that you have been trying to eliminate but somehow it just doesn’t seem to go away, try tracking every dollar. Yes, I know this sounds like way too much work and no fun at all. But this is exactly what I did when nothing else worked for me. I used Dave Ramsey’s free app Every Dollar. Once you get the system set up so that it works for you, you establish a rhythm and it goes pretty smoothly.2. Boost Your Physical Health – Whether it’s exercising daily, drinking more water, or committing to a clean-eating plan, pick one health-related habit to focus on.3. Eliminate a Time-Waster – We all have them! Maybe it’s binge-watching Netflix, scrolling endlessly on social media, or playing video games. Identify your biggest time-waster and replace it with something better.4. Add a Positive Activity – Now that you’ve freed up some time, add something enriching. Maybe you want to read for 30 minutes a day, or start journaling, or learn a new skill.5. Commit to Something That Excites You – Maybe it’s getting outdoors more, or decluttering your home, or sticking to a bedtime routine. Choose something that would make your life better and give it a try.Step 2: Set Yourself Up for SuccessNow that you’ve got your challenges, let’s talk about how to actually stick with them. Because let’s be honest—change isn’t always easy. Here are some key tips:1. Get Enough Sleep – No matter what else you’re changing, if you’re running on fumes, everything will feel harder. Aim for 7-8 hours a night.2. Make It Daily – The best way to build a habit is through daily repetition. If you try to do something only three times a week, it’s much harder to make it stick.3. Prepare Ahead of Time – Set yourself up for success by removing obstacles. If you’re committing to eating healthier, stock your fridge with good food and get rid of the junk. If you’re working out daily, lay out your clothes the night before. Whatever you have chosen to do, identify and remove any obstacles you foresee could get in the way.4. Find Support – Tell a friend or family member who will encourage you. But be careful who you share your goals with because people sometimes unintentionally sabotage others just by being negative or dismissive. If you do choose to have support, be sure it is positive support.Step 3: Expect Resistance & Push ThroughHere’s where the first step of making a decision as discussed in the last episode comes in.Here’s the thing—when you start changing multiple aspects of your life, it’s going to feel uncomfortable at times. If you’re giving up TV and junk food, you might realize those things were coping mechanisms for stress. Without them, you’ll need to face challenges head-on rather than distract yourself.But that’s actually a good thing! It means you’re growing. The key is to push through those moments of resistance and remember why you started.Step 4: Track Your Progress & Celebrate Wins* Keep a simple journal or checklist to track your daily progress. It can be very helpful to have a list of your commitments and check them off each day once you have accomplished them.* Celebrate small wins—acknowledge when you complete a full week or hit a milestone.* If you slip up, don’t quit! Just get back on track the next day.So, are you ready to take on this 30-day challenge? Imagine how different your life could be a month from now if you commit to just a few positive changes. You don’t have to do everything perfectly—just stay consistent and keep moving forward. You got this!I’d love to hear what challenges you choose and how it’s going for you. Reach out and share your progress! Until next time, keep striving, keep growing, and keep believing in yourself.Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll catch you in the next episode! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nancyshowalter.substack.com/subscribe