Learning by the spirit

I have to say that taking classes through a church college is a vastly different experience than the one I had when I went to college after high school, over ten years ago. My study is filled with articles by church leaders, scriptures, and other inspirational literature. The entire experience has been quite uplifting, and I'm looking forward to this style of learning in future classes. Since we are encouraged to invite the spirit to be with us while we study and learn, I find that many of the things I learn while studying have absolutely nothing to do with the course material, and much more to do with my own personal struggles and my daily circumstances. I will have an idea pop into my head for how I can be a better mother, or something I can do to better serve in my church calling. I feel that these insights are just as important as whatever material I am studying for the class.

I feel like these thoughts struck me as I studied this week from conference talks, especially one by President Monson when he was first called to be the prophet after President Hinckley passed away called "Looking Back and Moving Forward." I felt, as I read, that he was teaching me that it is important to learn from, though not to obsess over, past experiences and struggles. I should use those as a springboard for jumping into a future that is hopeful and bright. Yes, more struggles are certain to come, but planning and preparation can help me to be ready, and to have a positive attitude when those trials come. I am looking forward to also implementing these ideas into my business life, as well. Not every product that I've designed has been a huge success. In fact, some have been complete failures. But I've probably learned more from the failures than from all the successes. I know that I can do better, and that drives me to be more creative, try new techniques, and branch out into new avenues. I am excited for the future of my business, especially once I learn all the tools that the business management program has to teach me!

1st week of school musings

I step into this journey of obtaining a degree in Business Management with a different goal than many of my peers. I'm not planning to run a huge business, create a few startups, or become a manager of a franchise. I don't really plan on making large amounts of money. My first goal is to simply earn a degree. My other goals have more to do with simply improving my mind, learning new skills, becoming a better wife and mother, and learning some things that will help me manage and grow my small business.

In this, my first week of study, a few quotes from the readings stood out to me and spoke to my soul. Elder David A. Bednar said, "As we live the law of consecration, we are willing not only to offer anything and everything we possess for the sake of the gospel, but we also promise to develop and devote our best selves--our time, talents, and strength--to the building of the kingdom of God on the earth. Consecration includes and encompasses sacrifice and much more. We are not only willing to offer up our possessions, but we will become the best we can be and assist however possible in building the kingdom in righteous ways."

The other advice that stood out came from Guy Kawasaki. He teaches that you should "do what you love and the money will follow." I've definitely found this to be true. I began my little shop with some handmade items that I simply enjoy making. It's gradually grown, and I've added more products, but they are all things that I enjoy creating. I love having my craft time every day, and I love even more that I am able to contribute monetarily to my household while doing something that brings me so much joy. I know that my greatest calling in life at this time is being a mother and homemaker. I have a large role in raising righteous daughters, and I know that I am setting a wonderful example for them by pursuing my education. I know that the knowledge and experience that I will gain through this journey will help me to be a better and more well-rounded person, which will help me to serve my family and serve the Lord in better ways.