This post was sponsored by Nature Valley as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.
I still remember the first time someone told me that I was a good mom. It came from my mother in law when she came to visit us when Dylan was about 6 months old and it literally stopped me in my tracks. At the time I was a bleary-eyed, new mom who hadn’t had a full-night’s sleep in months. I was trying to do my best for my child yet not really feeling like I knew what I was doing at all. Those words meant so much to me, and I was reminded of just how powerful and uplifting small tokens of encouragement can be.
While I love complimenting others online through blogs and social media, I’ve since been making more of an effort to send positive vibes to people in person. In a world where we’re constantly connected, it’s also a world where we spend less time engaging with people face-to-face and it’s easier than ever to feel disconnected as well. I love Nature Valley’s latest campaign that focuses on the power of encouragement to #BeGreatOutThere and it’s a message that I want to send to all of you out there, regardless of what you’re doing or what kind of day you’re having. The power of positivity is infectious and you never know just how much your words may mean to someone. From a phone call to a thoughtful text, or even just a random post-it note left for the next person to see, the merging of love and words can make a big impact in someone’s day.
As a parent too, I see my kids struggle as they go through new experiences and learn different skills. For me, I actually think it’s important to let my kids work through challenges on their own instead of jumping in to solve the problem for them, but I am always one to be their cheerleader on the sidelines. For every milestone, there is hard work and dedication behind it and it’s a lesson I hope to teach my kids. I know for me that the words I heard from my parents growing up have since become the words of my inside voice that I hear now as an adult. And while life is full of ups and downs, frustrations and disappointments, it’s the positivity that will keep you going. I make sure that my kids hear these words from me and that they know how much encouraging, loving words can mean!
You can join in the initiative to #BeGreatOutThere too (and download the Nature Valley coupon to save on your next purchase!)
Candace says
You have such a beautiful family. It’s always nice to put positive vibes and words of encouragement out there. Our kids and world need them so much.
http://www.thebeautybeau.com/in-distress/
Shea says
This is such a great post! I don’t know anyone who doesn’t benefit from words of encouragement! Especially new moms–I remember feeling so overwhelmed and anxious during that time!
Adriele Dixon says
Kileen, this was such a lovely post! Love the outfits, the cuteness of the pictures and the message!
-Adriele
StyleAssisted.com
cutenlittle says
thank you so much! <3
Maggie Krol says
Your family is stunning! Beautiful photos and the styling is wonderful – everyone looks great!
http://www.maggiekrol.com/
Xoxo, Maggie
Adi says
Beautiful shots!! So Adorable!
Adi xx
http://www.fancycorrectitude.com
Sheela Goh says
Your mother-in-law is a keeper, Kileen 😉 just a few teeny words can do so much in lifting our spirits when we feel lost, and that’s exactly what happened right there. I love reading such stories because they too lift my spirits, put a smile on my face, and remind me that good people still exist in this world. Beautiful souls who are generous with their time, their love, and their kindness.
Giana says
Cute baby, and i love your photo
Giana | http://www.missygowns.com