Tag: purpose driven life

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Life, Love and Blessings

17 Promises I Choose to Live By : Then & Now

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Truth be told this is my then followed by my now.

The then was created some 10 years ago:

My personal code of ethics: Statement of Purpose:

This is a personal guide which will serve as a source of inspiration and as a reminder of things I must always be mindful of, especially when I am faced with challenges. It will help me to realise my long-term goals and mirrors my beliefs and my values.

What function is this expected to serve in my life?

This will serve as a daily reminder of what I believe in and a source of encouragement that will help me to become a better well-rounded individual who endeavours to be happy, have peace of mind, and be the best that I can be. I sincerely promise to use the ‘I will’ list below to do that.

Personal Commitments

  1. I will remember, ‘Carpe diem!’ (Seize the day!) and let it be my motto.
  2. I will continue to treat others in the very same manner that I would like to be treated.
  3. I will continue to develop myself professionally.
  4. I will try to inculcate good values and morals in those I interface with (including those under my charge).
  5. I will always be mindful that some things cannot be changed; that is, not everything is within my reach, and I must accept them for what they are… simply, ‘Don’t worry about what you cannot change’ and ‘Qué sera sera!’ (Whatever will be will be).
  6. I will always thank God for my blessings. I have faced many challenges and overcome each of them—such as not being able to hold things, write properly at times, or walk properly. To date, I have 12 O’ Levels, 4 A’ Levels, a BA in English, and my BA in Mass Communication is my second degree. I have a full-time job now. I can look back and say I’m happy with some of the things I did and encourage others to turn their challenges into successes.
  7. I will continue to give credit where credit is due… everyone deserves to be appreciated.
  8. I will continue to move ahead with realistic goals. Thankfully, both my sense of maturity and being realistic have helped me value the relationships I build.
  9. I will continue to remember that everything happens for a reason… it makes it easier to walk around with less emotional baggage and eliminates chances of dumping it on others.
  10. I will continue fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to me because shirking responsibilities means denying others their rights.
  11. I will always do my best in all that I do rather than giving up before starting or giving up in the middle of what I am doing because the end will be closer in sight.
  12. I will always look for something positive out of every negative experience, and I will use the ‘scissors of life’ to cut out negativity. Negativity breeds negativity and vice versa.
  13. I will use great care, consideration, and dedication to my values and morals to find amicable solutions to problematic situations and ethical dilemmas by always considering the consequences of my actions as it relates to all my dealings and those affected.
  14. I will focus on improving my health and try to get the required amount of rest because if I do not take care of myself, I cannot take care of anyone needing my help.
  15. I will continue to develop my spirituality and be a devotee of God.
  16. I will try to exercise good judgment at all times.
  17. I will review my personal code of ethics periodically and strive to make necessary improvements where possible.

This is my now: Living My Personal Code of Ethics

Life is about the values that guide you through both the highs and the lows. My personal code of ethics isn’t just a list I wrote once; it’s something I try to live by every day.

At the core of everything is a simple mindset: Carpe diem—seize the day. I try to make the most of every opportunity while remembering to treat others the way I would like to be treated. Respect, kindness, and fairness are not optional; they are the foundation of every meaningful interaction.

Growth is also important to me. I continue to develop myself professionally while encouraging and guiding those I interact with, especially those under my care. At the same time, I’ve learned to accept that not everything is within my control. Some things simply are what they are, and finding peace in that—embracing the idea of “what will be, will be”—has helped me tremendously.

Gratitude plays a huge role in my life. Despite the challenges I’ve faced, I remain thankful. Those experiences have shaped me, strengthened me, and allowed me to encourage others to turn their struggles into success. They remind me that resilience is built, not given.

As I move forward, I focus on being realistic, appreciating others, and valuing the relationships I build. I remind myself that everything happens for a reason, which helps me let go of unnecessary emotional weight and avoid passing negativity on to others.

Responsibility is another principle I take seriously. Fulfilling what is entrusted to me matters because failing to do so affects others. That’s why I always strive to give my best, even when it’s difficult, because every step forward brings me closer to the end goal.

I also make a conscious effort to find positivity in every situation. Life will always present challenges, but I believe in cutting out negativity and choosing a mindset that promotes growth and peace.

In dealing with others, I aim to act with care, integrity, and fairness. Ethical decisions aren’t always easy, but considering the impact of my actions helps me navigate even the most difficult situations.

Equally important is taking care of myself. I’ve learned that I cannot pour into others if I am running on empty. Rest, health, and balance are not luxuries—they are necessities.

My spirituality continues to guide me, grounding me in faith and helping me stay aligned with my values. Alongside this, I strive to exercise good judgment in all that I do.

Finally, I remind myself that growth is ongoing. I revisit my values, reflect on my actions, and make adjustments where needed. Becoming better is a continuous process, not a final destination.

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings

Celebrating Wins & Growth

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

There was a time when I would quietly move from one achievement to the next without pausing. Tick the box. Submit the assignment. Finish the project. Support the students. Start the next thing. No celebration. No reflection. Just movement.

But I’ve learned something important along the way: celebrating your wins is not pride — it’s perspective.

We are often so focused on where we are going that we forget to honour how far we have come. We set goals, work tirelessly, overcome obstacles, juggle responsibilities, and stretch ourselves in ways no one else sees. And then when we finally accomplish something, we minimize it.

“It was nothing.”
“I could have done better.”
“That’s just what I’m supposed to do.”

No. It is something. And it matters.

Celebrating your wins — big or small — does three powerful things:

1. It reminds you of your growth.
The version of you today once prayed, hoped, or worked toward what you now consider “normal.” What feels routine now was once unfamiliar territory. Reflection turns ordinary milestones into evidence of progress.

2. It builds confidence for the next challenge.
When you acknowledge what you’ve accomplished, you reinforce the truth that you are capable. Success leaves clues. When you celebrate, you internalize them.

3. It strengthens gratitude.
Every journey includes support — mentors, family, faith, discipline, resilience. Pausing to celebrate creates space to be thankful for both the outcome and the process.

And let’s talk about the journey itself.

Success is rarely a straight line. It is early mornings and late nights. It is revision and reworking. It is doubt followed by determination. It is showing up even when motivation is low. The journey shapes us just as much as the destination.

That’s why celebrating only the final result is not enough. Celebrate the consistency. Celebrate the courage to begin. Celebrate the decision to keep going when quitting would have been easier.

Sometimes the win isn’t a certificate, a title, or public recognition. Sometimes the win is personal growth. Emotional maturity. Improved discipline. Stronger boundaries. A calmer response. A deeper faith.

Those wins are just as powerful.

I have learned to pause now — even briefly — and say, “I did my best” or “Yes, it’s coming together nicely.” To reflect. To document. To express gratitude. To allow myself to feel proud without guilt. Because acknowledging success does not make you complacent; it fuels you.

If you are reading this and moving quickly from one goal to the next, I encourage you: pause.

Look back at where you were one year ago.
Look at what you’ve survived.
Look at what you’ve built.
Look at what you’ve learned.

Celebrate that.

You are allowed to honour your effort.
You are allowed to enjoy your progress.
You are allowed to recognize your success.

Your journey deserves acknowledgment.
Your wins deserve celebration.
And so do you.

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings

Fun Facts People Don’t Know About Me

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

You might know what I do—but you may not know these fun little details about who I am. Here’s a playful peek behind the scenes!

1. I am an Editor with International Experience

I am a professional editor with experience on the international scale, working with diverse voices, styles, and audiences. I love refining ideas and helping messages shine clearly and confidently.

2. I blend Editing, Marketing, and PR

I also have marketing experience, which means I edit and advise with audience, visibility, and impact in mind—not just grammar.

3. I have over 10 years of experience in Communications and PR

With a decade of experience in communications and public relations, I understand how messages are received, interpreted, and remembered.

4. I Specialize in Crisis Management & Communications Planning

When situations are sensitive or high-pressure, I help individuals and organizations communicate calmly, strategically, and with credibility.

5. I’ve Been Teaching for 21 Years (Yes, I Started Very Young!)

Teaching has been part of my life for over two decades, shaping my patience, clarity, and love for mentorship.

6. I have 3 books available on Kindle

I’m the author of three books published on Kindle, allowing my work to reach readers across the world at the click of a button.

7. Words Are My Superpower

From editing manuscripts and marketing content to crisis statements and lesson plans, words are how I create impact. I have written over 100 press releases, done content for websites, helped a lot of people including students create competitive resumes. Thankfully it’s all in my portfolio.

8. I’m big on Recycling

Paper and bottles never go to waste with me. I believe small, consistent actions make a big environmental difference.

9. I do Google Reviews—when service is impeccable

When I receive outstanding service, I share it! My Google reviews have reached 80,000 views to date, helping others and highlighting excellence. See what I’ve posted to Google Maps
Level 6 Local Guide
https://maps.app.goo.gl/VNTfFfSuso4guBaK8?g_st=aw

10. My Blog has a Global Reach

This blog is read in 151 countries, with over 28,000 views—a reminder that words truly travel.

11. I naturally see potential

I quickly spot strengths—in students, writers, and ideas—and love helping others develop them.

12. Positivity is a Daily Practice

I actively choose growth, gratitude, and perspective, even during challenging moments.

13. Teaching still energizes me

Even after 21 years, supporting students’ confidence and success remains deeply fulfilling.

14. I’m a Lifelong Learner

I’m constantly learning—about communication trends, education, culture, and personal development.

15. Motherhood strengthened my skills

Being a mom sharpened my empathy, patience, multitasking, and problem-solving abilities.

16. Integrity guides everything I do

Honesty, clarity, and kindness are non-negotiable in my work and relationships.

17. I truly believe life is meant to be celebrated

Every season, every lesson, every small win matters.

18. I love design and I design nearly all of what I use.

On those rare occasions where I don’t use my designs, I give photo credits.

Posted in Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life, Love and Blessings, Spiritual Reflections

Celebrating 2025: Carpe Diem, Que Sera Sera, Semper Fi

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

2025 was not a year I simply passed through—it was a year that refined me. A year of lessons (some very harsh ones), new beginnings, and quiet awakenings that required continued honesty, courage, and faith. It challenged my resilience and reshaped my perspective, reminding me that growth is rarely loud—but always intentional.

This was the year I truly learned the power of carpe diem—seizing the moment by showing up. Not perfectly. Not fearlessly. But consistently. I learned that progress is built in the daily effort, the small decisions, and the willingness to keep going even when motivation fades. Consistency matters, and 2025 proved that steady steps often carry more power than dramatic moves.

At the same time, I embraced the wisdom of que sera sera—understanding that not everything is mine to control. I learned to release expectations and trust the unfolding. There is peace in acceptance, and strength in knowing when to let go and when to stand firm.

@rachaelathomasj

#onthisday #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #fyp #lovelife

♬ Moments We Live For – In Paradise

One of the most transformative lessons of the year was learning to see things for what they are—not what I hoped they would be, not what I tried to make them, but what they truly were. That clarity brought freedom. It allowed me to stop over-explaining, stop forcing alignment, and start responding with wisdom instead of emotion.

Moving forward required deep faith—faith in the process, faith in divine timing, and faith in myself. It required resilience of the quiet kind—the kind that wakes up every day, shows up again, and chooses growth even when the road feels heavy.

@rachaelathomasj

#onthisday #vocênasceuparamudar #rachaelathomasj #celebratingexistence #fyp

♬ Vibes – ZHRMusic

2025 demanded bold decisions. Decisions that were not always understood, but were necessary. I chose boundaries over burnout, truth over comfort, and peace over people-pleasing. In doing so, I learned what semper fi truly means—being faithful to my values, loyal to my purpose, and committed to the person I am becoming.

This was also the year I fully embraced investing in me. My healing. My growth. My future. Self-investment became an act of strength, not guilt. And through it all, I rose—again and again—like the phoenix, not untouched by the fire, but strengthened by it.

As I celebrate 2025, I do so with gratitude—not because it was easy, but because it was necessary. It taught me that showing up consistently changes everything, clarity brings peace, and faith carries you further than fear ever could.

I remain deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and unwavering support of my family and friends, for my children who inspire me daily to be strong and intentional, and for the mentors and quiet supporters who believed in me—sometimes even before I fully believed in myself. Their faith, encouragement, and presence, whether spoken or silent, reminded me that I was never walking this journey alone. In moments of doubt and rebuilding, their trust in me became strength, their prayers became covering, and their support became the fuel that helped me keep showing up, stay faithful, and continue moving forward with clarity and courage.

I step forward grounded, resilient, and clear—guided by the principles that carried me through:

Carpe Diem.
Que Sera Sera.
Semper Fi.

Here’s to continuing the journey—steady, faithful, and always celebrating existence