I have had a little sleeping problem lately. I wake up at some point in the middle of the night and have to fight to get back to sleep. My mind will simply not quiet down. Interesting enough, I’m not awake fretting things or creating mental to-do lists. Instead, I’m honestly laying there in awe of my life and the blessing God has brought to me. I don’t know where this sensation comes from, but I think I can narrow it down to 5 things that truly make me feel complete.

My fitness empowers me. I cannot help but feel empowered, strong, and physically capable after my fabulous 10K race experience on Saturday. Then, I continued to feel strong as I headed to the gym for a great workout this morning – including push-ups all on my toes!!!!

I followed up my plyometrics, chest, triceps, and abs circuit with a great spin class. My legs felt great and I had a ton of energy. I feel complete with fitness in my life.

My healthy lifestyle energizes me. Sure, I can eat donuts in the morning and head to a dinner out with a decadent dessert the same evening, but I also believe I treat my body well. I fuel myself adequately. I stay aware of my emotions. I remain in tune with my body. All of this works together for me to have the energy to live life fully.

Loving others fulfills me. Giving of myself to others brings me such joy. I could not imagine life without those I love so much. My family. My friends. Even people I don’t know well, but have the chance to come across and show kindness. It brings so much back to my life. I feel complete with love in my life.

Blogging humbles me. The way you all support me so I can continue shooting for my dreams and following the path I feel God has laid before me humbles me. Having the chance to pour myself into something I feel so strongly for makes me incredibly appreciative. I feel complete with FFF in my life.

Most important - My faith restores me. Yesterday I made it to church service for the first time in a few weeks after being out of town and having a messed up schedule last weekend. The sermon inspired me. The praise songs revitalized me. The worship, prayer, and community uplifted me. I feel complete with God in my life.

Lately I see all of these things in my life working together and moving me forward in a life I never thought I could have. I love my life and I completely attribute it to each of these things. They complete me.

• What is something that completes you?

Before I begin – thank you all for the supportive comments! I always believe in transparent blogging and opening myself up fully to my readers. It helps me reflect, get back to normal, and feel better as well. Thank you for that.

You know what bothers me? The fact that many times we will quickly own up to our weaknesses or things we can improve. We will readily zone in on what we deem “icky” about our bodies or negative qualities on which we could work. Then, on the flip side, when a compliment comes our way we bat it down and swat it aside. We nullify it and make it the exception to the standard. We shy away from declaring our strengths. I know I do it too. Even my recent posts have shared some struggling moments of my life and personal vulnerabilities.

Today I want to switch gears. Today I want to say it loud and say it proud. I want to declare my strengths to the world. Without addendums that lessen. Without rationalizations that make them seem less valuable. I want to put myself on a pedestal and feel dang good about it. My strengths include…

I love hard.

I am determined in reaching goals I set for myself.

I am a passionate writer and inspire others with my words.

I can create delicious meals that are better for their ease factor.

I am smart.

I have a good, albeit odd, sense of humor.

I’m organized, hard-working, and get things done.

I am physically strong.

I can forgive others, yet still watch out for myself.

I listen well and others trust me.

I use life’s lessons to continuously grow. I do not fear growth.

I stand behind my faith.

Will you join me and declare your strengths proudly?