FROM THE EDITOR…
Dear Winners, If you haven’t already, let’s take a moment to define a target which allows us to live intentionally. Can we truly waste any days? Yet, if we don’t have a goal or a dream, perhaps we’re burning daylight and wasting oxygen. When you know what you want to achieve, it's easier to stay focused and motivated. Goals help you use your time and energy wisely by pointing to next steps. Whether it's getting a promotion, making a sports team, or saving money for something special, seeing that bullseye motivates you to keep going and keeps you on track. Targets also provide an avenue for you to chart your progress. When you work toward a goal, you can measure just how far you've come and what you still need to accomplish. A steady string of upward achievements can foster confidence to tackle that next challenge. Even if you don’t reach your goal right away, trying your best helps you grow and learn. In the end, having a goal gives your daily life purpose and pushes you to become the best version of yourself. What’s your next target?
Hitting your target: 3 steps to achieving your goals by Jay Peterley Setting a target, whether it’s personal, academic, or professional, is the first step toward meaningful growth. For most people, turning that aspiration into a reality is the biggest hurdle. It’s easy to set a goal, but achieving that goal is another story. What sets successful goal setters apart from everyday people is an exact approach and a diehard commitment.
Here are 3 steps that you can take that will help you hit your target.
1. Define your goal clearly.
The first step is to be absolutely clear about what you want to achieve. Vague goals lead to vague results. Instead of saying, “I want to get fit”, specify, “I want to run a 5K under 30 minutes within 3 months.” A clear, specific target gives you a concrete target to hit and makes it easier to track your progress.
2. Break it down.
Big goals can feel overwhelming. Break your main target into smaller units. If your goal is to write a book, set targets for chapters or word counts per week. Each small win builds momentum, keeps you motivated, and makes the goal less intimidating.
3. Make a plan and set deadlines.
A target without details is just a wish. Outline the steps you need to take and assign deadlines to each one. Scheduling tasks on a calendar makes your commitment tangible and helps you prioritize your time. Regularly review your plan and adjust as needed to stay on track.
Hitting a target is more than just wishful thinking. It’s about clarity, planning, action, accountability, and resilience. You have the power to transform your goals into real achievements. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.
So celebrate your progress and keep aiming higher!
The authentic will always attract.
The Boy Beneath the Cardboard Box
I sat down with Megan Downing, Director of Donor Engagement, with Feed the Hungry to delve deeper into the driving force behind the success of Feed the Hungry.
Megan, can you share a story of a person or group whose life was changed though Feed the Hungry?
Absolutely. The experience that stands out the most is the one from Nicaragua. I was able to meet Ricky, 13 years old, who was living and working at Feed the Hungry Nicaragua. To say Ricky had a hard life was an understatement. He grew up living in the dump of Jinotega. We visited this specific area when I went, because Feed the Hungry Nicaragua has a ministry there. It is one of the saddest places I have ever visited. There are just piles of garbage and vultures everywhere. The smell is overwhelming! The people who live at these dumps wait for the city to drop off huge piles of trash and sort through it looking for something of value…plastic or metal to sell for a few cents or maybe some food that was discarded. I was actually there when the dump trucks came into the area, and I was told to steer clear! It would be very easy, especially for a child living in this area, to get buried by garbage or injured. That is exactly what happened to Ricky when he was much younger. He was found by one of our partners at Feed the Hungry Nicaragua. He had somehow gotten injured by the dump truck and was found passed out under a cardboard box. Our partner cleaned him up, and thankfully he was okay. Ricky disappeared for several years after this event. Finally, in May 2023, Ricky returned to the same landfill. When our partner at Feed the Hungry Nicaragua saw him again, with permission from a family member, she took him out of that environment and placed him in a youth development program where the children are taught to work and are given English classes to advance their future. They also attend church to learn the Word of God. Ricky now has the opportunity to work in a clean environment, without garbage, and earn money to fulfill his personal goal of becoming a Spanish to English interpreter. This is just one small example of how Feed the Hungry has completely altered the path of a child living without hope. Today in Jinotega, housing has been built in the same landfill community to provide dignity and hope for a group of people who have always been overlooked.
When Questions Become a Calling
What inspired me to become a patient’s advocate was not a single moment, but a series of moments that unfolded over nearly nine years of searching for answers. In 2017, my son experienced a sudden medical event that changed the trajectory of our family's life. What followed was a diagnostic odyssey that led us through countless appointments, hospitalizations, tests, specialists, and more questions than answers. Along the way, we learned that living with a rare or undiagnosed condition often means becoming an expert in a disease no one fully understands while learning to navigate a healthcare system that isn't always equipped for complex and unanswered cases. Like many rare disease families, we found ourselves living in the space between what was known and what remained unexplained, searching not only for a diagnosis, but for understanding, direction, and hope. Over time, our family's journey expanded as we navigated additional rare and complex medical conditions affecting more than one of our children. Through it all, I learned that advocacy often begins when necessity meets hope. When answers are limited, parents become researchers. When systems are fragmented, caregivers become coordinators. When voices are missing from the conversation, families learn to speak up. What inspired me to advocate was realizing that our story wasn't unique. Behind every diagnosis, or lack of diagnosis, is a family carrying the weight of uncertainty while trying to build a life beyond it. As I connected with other patients, caregivers, and advocates, I discovered that while our diseases were different, our experiences were remarkably similar. We were all searching for understanding, support, and a community that truly understood what it means to navigate the unknown. The most rewarding part of this journey has been helping transform isolation into connection. I've had the privilege of watching families who once felt alone find community, resources, and hope. I've seen parents discover their voices as advocates and patients realize that their stories have the power to create change. Rare disease advocacy has taught me that while one person's story can be powerful, it becomes transformative when it helps others see themselves in it. If there is one thing I've learned, it's that none of us are meant to carry these journeys alone. Thank you , Carrie Borrello cborrello4224@gmail.com
A conversation about STYLE with Dawn Del Russo
Dawn, how can someone develop a personal style that feels authentic and gives confidence?
Personal style starts with how you feel. You know immediately when you put something on that you love. I like to begin there. Find 5 pieces in your wardrobe you own that you can work around. That is where true authenticity begins. For confidence, look to pieces that fit your body well. Tailoring is key here. When it fits your body, it brings instant confidence. I always say a great pair of shoes ( or two) helps too. A heel lifts you up and will have you walking differently.
How do you recommend dressing for an image that someone wants to project?
Think about who you want to be. Who is the person you would like to see in the mirror? Do you admire someone and feel inspired by their style? Clothes that are clean, fresh and don't hold old stale energy are a quick way to boost that image. I like styles that are a bit more elevated. Think dresses, matching pant or skirt sets, tailored pieces, heels and a bag that makes you feel important. Don't underestimate hair and makeup too. This always finishes the look.
How can someone take their image to the next level?
Think about who you are now and who you would like to be. If you are used to always wearing athleisure try elevating that with a matching linen pant set. If your go-to is an oversized sweatshirt and jeans, try a more fitted pair of jeans with a white tee and accessories. Jewels quickly can take a basic outfit to the next level. Dawn Del Russo is an on-air fashion and lifestyle expert, author, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of Live the Glamour and has appeared on national television programs including Access Hollywood, Extra, E! News, CBS, FOX, and PIX11, sharing style, beauty, and lifestyle expertise. Dawn is also the author of 101 Glam Girl Ways to an Ultra Chic Lifestyle and regularly covers fashion trends, travel, beauty, and luxury living. Find Dawn Del Russo: ● Website: DawnDelRusso.com ● Lifestyle & Fashion: LiveTheGlamour.com ● Instagram: @DawnDelRusso ● YouTube: Live the Glamour with Dawn Del Russo
When the Words Wouldn't Stay Still For most people, reading is a skill learned in childhood. It takes you to far away places where your imagination can soar. For Michael Thompson, however, reading was a challenge. Diagnosed with dyslexia at age seven, Michael spent his childhood wrestling with words that seemed to dance on the page. Letters swapped places. Sentences simply made no sense. Frustration moved in. Yet, despite all of this, Michael dreamed of becoming an editor. Michael’s journey began in a small town library, where he would spend hours poring over picture books, determined to decode their secrets. His parents and teachers recognized his drive and supported him with specialized tutoring and audiobooks. Still, progress was slow. “There were days I wanted to give up,” Michael recalls. “But every story I finished felt like I had just climbed a mountain.” High school brought new challenges. Michael joined the school newspaper, initially as a photographer, but soon found himself drawn to the editing desk. He discovered that his unique perspective, shaped by years of unraveling sentences, gave him an eye for clarity and empathy for struggling readers. “I realized I could help make stories clearer, more accessible,” he says. “That was my way of giving back.” In college, Michael majored in English, a decision that surprised many but made perfect sense to him. He sought out mentors and joined editing workshops. Each paper he edited, each manuscript he reviewed, was another step toward his goal. “Dyslexia made me work harder, but it also made me more determined,” Michael explains. Now in his late twenties, Michael is hitting his target. He interns at a local publishing house, where he’s known for his meticulous attention to detail and his passion for vibrant storytelling. His journey is far from over, but Michael’s story is a testament to resilience. “Dyslexia doesn’t define me,” he says. “It’s part of my story, and it’s made me a better editor.” Michael Turner’s battle with dyslexia has not only shaped his character but also his mission: to ensure that every reader, no matter their challenges, can find themselves in the pages of a good book.
Excellence is your standard.
Bullseye by June Secand
A distant mark, a silent vow, I draw the line, I’m steady now. The wind may shift, the world may sway, But still my focus does not stray. The target waits with quiet pride, A dream I chased, a truth I tried. Through doubt and fear, through heavy load, I walked the long and winding road. One breath, one shot, one crystal aim. No room for luck, no need for blame. The arrow sings, the silence breaks, It finds its mark, the stillness shakes. Not just in wood or paper rings, But in the heart, where purpose clings. To hit the mark is more than skill. It's courage, fire, and iron will.
If you watch others build their destiny, who will watch yours?
Psalm 2
The Power of Focus: Putting on Blinders
Once your target is set, the next challenge is focusing. In a world filled with distractions and competing priorities, this is where “putting on blinders” becomes essential. The metaphor comes from horse racing, where blinders are used to keep horses from being distracted by their surroundings, allowing them to focus solely on the track ahead. Here’s how you can apply this principle: ● Ignore sensational opportunities. Not every opportunity aligns with your chosen target. Learn to say no to projects, tasks, or invitations that don’t directly contribute to your goal. This selective attention will protect your time and energy and keep you on course. ● Minimize distractions. Create an environment that supports vision. This might mean turning off notifications, setting boundaries with associates, or blocking time on your calendar for concentration. ● Track your progress. Use measurable milestones to check your advancement. This keeps your attention on the target and provides motivation as you see tangible results. ● Resist the urge to multitask. Multitasking can divide your direction and slow your progress. Devote dedicated time and energy to your chosen target, treating it as your primary mission because it is. The Benefits & Risks of Blinders Staying hyper focused can be a double edged sword. On the positive side, it fosters persistence and increases the likelihood of achieving big targets. Research consistently shows that specific goals improve performance & motivation compared to vague or easy goals. However, there is a risk. Excessive focus can cause you to miss important changes in your environment or ignore new information that should trigger a course correction. Every now and then, it’s wise to lift the blinders, reassess your progress, and ensure your target is still relevant and attainable. A Practical Example A business that is targeting a specific market or demographic should put on blinders to those who are not the ideal customer. Focus your marketing, messaging, and resources on the audience most likely to convert to customers, rather than trying to appeal to everyone. This targeted approach increases efficiency and effectiveness, but it also requires the discipline to ignore irrelevant opportunities.
Takeaways
Defining a specific goal is about clarity, focus, and commitment. Together, they form a powerful strategy for achieving meaningful results. Define your destination with precision, then focus your energy and attention on the next step to give yourself the best chance of hitting your mark.
B R E A K T H R O U G H S Mark P. I was embarrassed to admit I couldn’t swim my entire adult life. When I finally had enough, I took lessons and finally conquered my fear of water. Now I’m ready for the next pool party.
Elena S. I’ve always given 100%. I’ve always had an amazing work ethic. It was standard to receive amazing results for quarterly and annual reviews. My company recently underwent an acquisition, and my new boss was not a nice person to say the least. So I quit my stressful job and launched a handmade jewelry business. It was scary, but so worth it. Now, I’m the boss.
Ben T. Never played an instrument before, but I learned guitar just to write a song for my wife for our fifth wedding anniversary. She cried happy tears. I’m looking forward to the next five years.
Priya L. Told my boss I deserved a raise and actually got it. Hardest conversation I’ve ever had, but it paid off. I feel totally validated.
Most men will receive 1 compliment a year. Most women will receive 8.
What is the next compliment that you want to hear?
Ben: I have five brothers, and I’m in the middle.
Ben, it’s not easy being in the middle. It seems like the oldest and the youngest get all the attention. It’s not because of something that they’ve accomplished. It’s because that just happens to be the birthing order. However, it’s the person in the middle that holds the anchor. It’s the person in the middle that absorbs the weight that is passing through. You are actually in a pivotal spot because from your position, you can see the beginning and the end. You have the vision advantage that the others don’t. So stand your ground. LEARN and make IMPACT on those coming behind you. Ben, you matter. Heather: I’m confident and mislabeled. Heather, most people spend decades trying to develop confidence. It’s rare that people possess an innate knowing of exactly who they are and their self worth. This is a trait to be celebrated. That inner compass keeps you focused and on target. The fact that you have found your voice to set healthy boundaries, gives you an edge that most don’t have. If they mislabel you, it might be a sign of envy. Keep moving. Don’t stop. Know that you are one of a kind.
Charlie: I’ve been cutting hair since I was 14. Charlie, people see things from the outside and don’t realize the years it takes to hone a craft. Obviously starting at 14 years of age is quite young. You’ve put in the time. Charlie, take a bow. The apprentice has become the MASTER.
Mitch: Laughter is my default. Mitch, in a world full of insecurity, depression & low self esteem, it is refreshing to encounter someone who has the capacity to make others relax and laugh. Having a great sense of humor is the calling card of someone who is comfortable in their own skin and sees the silver lining in most situations. It is a true art form. Mitch, you are a great story teller, and you are a true gift. .
The Weight Question
We sat down with Julianna Vocca, an expert in nutrition and metabolism, and asked her THE QUESTION:
What are the biggest mistakes people make when trying to lose weight, and what should they focus on instead?
The biggest mistake people make when trying to lose weight is expecting it to happen fast. Weight gain rarely happens overnight and weight loss won't either. A realistic pace is 1–2 pounds per week; this is steady enough to be sustainable and slow enough to protect your metabolism. The scale isn't a perfect progress report. Your weight can swing 2–4 pounds in a few days thanks to fluid shifts, hormones, and even how much food is still in your system. That's normal and not a setback. What does drive real change is a consistent calorie deficit paired with habits that protect muscle. Too little exercise slows metabolism; too much ramps up stress and backfires. The sweet spot: lifting weights and moderate cardio 3–4 days a week. For smoother progress, prioritize protein and fiber at every meal to help with appetite control. Lift weights to maintain muscle. Limit sugary drinks and ultra‑processed "diet" foods. Eat when you're actually hungry. Monitor portion sizes and read nutrition labels to understand your choices and quantities. Slow, steady, and strength‑focused wins every time.
For addition strategies, Julianna can be reached at: Juliana Vocca MS RD Owner/Women's Health and Media Dietitian www.primewomennutrition.com
Joseph had a dream 1. What’s been your biggest accomplishment thus far, and how did you get there? My biggest accomplishment so far has been starting my own tech consulting business from the ground up. I had no investors, just a vision, and a lot of late nights. I got there by being consistent, staying curious, and not being afraid to ask for help or admit when I didn’t know something. I took small steps everyday whether it was networking, learning a new skill, or getting in front of a potential customer. Those small steps added up to something bigger than I imagined. 2. How did it impact your community? It opened new doors. I was able to hire locally, mentor high school students interested in tech, and even host a free workshop for small businesses in the area. Watching others grow because of what I started was something that I didn’t expect. 3. What did the naysayers tell you, and what did you tell yourself? People said it was too risky and that I should just stick to my 9 to 5 job with a steady paycheck. I told myself that regret hits harder than failure ever will. I reminded myself that I didn’t come this far just to play it safe. 4. What is your next target, and what steps are you taking to obtain it? My next target is to expand nationally and build a leadership team that can run operations without me being in the room. I’m investing in leadership coaching, tightening up my systems, and slowly stepping out of the daily decisions to focus on scaling the business. 5. What is the next compliment that you want to hear? I want someone to say, “Because you mentored me, I built something I never thought I could.” That would mean the world. 6. Our readers are looking to reach that next level. What advice would you give them? Start before you're ready. Most people wait for the perfect time. There’s no such thing. You grow in the process. Set a goal, break it down into manageable steps, and just begin. Stay surrounded by people who push you forward, not pull you back. 7. What does hitting your target mean to you? It means living with intention. It’s not just about the win. It’s about proving to myself that I am more than capable. Discipline is required.
We sat down with Serene Grace to learn what it takes to win with GRACE. 1. How can people move from insights to lasting change? I encourage people to take the insights they gain and apply them in practical, manageable ways. That might mean setting healthier boundaries, practicing mindfulness, journaling, embracing forgiveness, improving communication, or making one small positive change each day. Progress is built through consistency rather than perfection. I also believe lasting change requires self compassion. Growth isn't about never stumbling. It's about learning from setbacks, trusting yourself, and continuing forward with resilience. When people align their daily actions with their values and purpose, those small steps gradually become lasting habits that create meaningful transformation. My goal is to help others not only discover their inner light but also give them practical tools and encouragement to live with greater confidence, balance, and purpose every day.
2. What blind spots do most people have or struggle to conquer? I believe one of the greatest blind spots people have is underestimating their own potential. Fear, self doubt, past disappointments, and limiting beliefs often become internal barriers that keep people from recognizing their strengths or pursuing the life they truly desire. Many people become so focused on their perceived shortcomings or comparing themselves to others that they lose sight of the unique gifts and resilience they already possess. Another common struggle is believing that change should happen instantly. In reality, meaningful transformation is rarely a single breakthrough moment. It's the result of consistent choices, self awareness, patience, and the willingness to grow through life's challenges incrementally. Progress isn't about perfection. It's about showing up each day with the intention to learn, adapt, and move forward in the NOW. I also think many people struggle to trust themselves. In today's fast paced world, we're constantly surrounded by outside opinions, expectations, and distractions. Over time, people can become disconnected from their own intuition, values, and inner wisdom. Learning to quiet the external noise and reconnect with your authentic self is one of the most empowering steps anyone can take. Credentials & Bio: Serene Grace is a Transformation-Intuitive Life Coach, Writer, Editor, and Broadcasting Professional based in the United States. Through her trademarked platform, Shining Bright with Serene Grace, she integrates intuitive insight, coaching methodologies, and holistic development practices to support individuals in achieving emotional clarity, personal empowerment, and life transformation. Her work blends communication, spiritual awareness, and practical guidance, creating a unique coaching approach centered on growth, balance, and self-discovery. Website: www.shiningbrightwserenegrace.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiningbrightwserenegrace Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Shining-Bright-with-Serene-Grace/100085468055650/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiningbrightwserenegrace13/ Email: serenegrace13@yahoo.com
Who do you need to
forgive so YOU can move forward?
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