Things Are Not Always What They Seem

Hello, y'all. And welcome back to This Is For Us!

Today, I'm diving deep into something personal yet universally relatable: the facade we often present to the world versus our actual experiences and feelings. It's a reminder that despite the smiles and perfect snapshots on social media, there's often much more happening behind the scenes. To help us navigate these complex waters, I've created a resource just for you - the Quote Journal. It's free and designed to offer solace and inspiration during those tumultuous times. You're not alone in this journey, and that's precisely why This Is For Us exists. 

https://noelrobertscoley.myflodesk.com/journal

https://www.instagram.com/noelrobertscoley/

Takeaways from this episode:

As I reflected on recent events, especially the insightful yet emotionally charged gathering at Bentley Medical, I was reminded of the profound lessons hidden beneath the surface of our day-to-day lives. These lessons have significantly shifted my perspective on the contrast between appearance and reality: 

1. The Illusion of Perfection: Social media can often trick us into believing everyone else's life is flawless. Yet, as I shared my struggles with a skin breakout just hours before a highly anticipated event, I was reminded of the power of authenticity. Embracing our imperfections can lead to deeper connections and a more authentic sense of self.

2. Finding Strength in Vulnerability: The support and understanding I received at Bentley Medical, despite my earlier anxiety and distress, taught me the invaluable lesson that vulnerability is not a weakness but a bridge to genuine connections. It's okay not always to be okay, and sharing our true selves can light the way for others to do the same.

3. Life's Beautiful Contrasts: Through the highs and lows, I've come to appreciate life's beautiful contrasts. The challenges we face, like the skin issues I battled, remind us that growth often comes from discomfort. These experiences shape our stories, making them uniquely ours.

 4. The Promise of Renewal: Just as March symbolizes a fresh start and the promise of spring, each day offers us a chance to begin anew. Regardless of yesterday's struggles, there's always hope and beauty waiting to be discovered. Embracing each day's dualities, with its potential for joy and pain, teaches us resilience and gratitude.

 As we navigate through the complexities of life, remembering that things are not always as they seem, let's take solace in our shared experiences. Let's cherish the moments of connection, learn from our challenges, and move forward with a sense of hope and renewal.

 Thank you for being here with me, for sharing this space where we can be our true selves, free from judgment and pretense. This Is For Us is more than just a podcast; it's a community, a sanctuary, and a reminder that together, we can face anything.

 I'm looking forward to our continued journey, exploring the depths of our experiences and finding light even in the darkest of times. Here's to embracing the real, the raw, and the beautiful in all aspects of our lives.

 I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Hello, y'all. And welcome back to This is for Us! 

In this episode, I share the roller coaster my gym recently experienced at Cheersport. It’s a great example of how unexpected life lessons can teach us important mindset shifts if we are willing to learn from them. Of course, no one likes to be disappointed or frustrated, but it happens. And being prepared for the “what ifs” is what it takes to walk through those unexpected times. It’s one of the many reasons I created the Quote Journal. It’s a free resource - for YOU - so you can navigate the storms of life. You know you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here, and it’s precisely the reason I created this podcast because: This Is For Us! 

Link to FREE Quote Journal: https://noelrobertscoley.myflodesk.com/journal

Takeaways from this episode: 

 As February drew to a close, I promised myself to leave the darkness behind and welcome March as a symbol of hope and renewal. Despite struggling with sleep and grappling with my thoughts, the dawn of March 1st represented a fresh start, an opportunity to shed the weight of the previous month and embrace the brighter days ahead.

Pressure is not always a bad thing. In reflecting on recent experiences, particularly with cheerleading, I've distilled three key lessons that have helped me navigate through adversity:

1. Pressure is a Privilege: Inspired by Billie Jean King's words, I've learned to view pressure not as a burden but as a testament to our capabilities and potential. It serves as a reminder that obstacles frequently accompany opportunities for growth and success, pushing us to succeed and capitalize on our strengths.

2. The Beauty of Contrast: A fulfilling life isn't comprised solely of perfect outcomes. The contrasts between good and bad, light and dark, define our experiences and shape our character. Through adversity, we learn resilience and find strength, crafting a narrative that's uniquely ours.

3. Embracing Life's Dualities: Life's beauty and hardships coexist, offering life lessons in gratitude and resilience. Appreciating the roses among the thorns is essential, recognizing that both success and failure contribute to our growth and understanding of the world.

As we step into March, I'm reminded of Erin Hansen's words, which echo the promise of renewal and the endless cycle of seasons. Life's unpredictable nature, with its highs and lows, shapes our journey, encouraging us to persevere through the coldest winters in anticipation of spring's warmth and new beginnings.

Life’s lessons are shared through tears and triumphs, a testament to our collective strength and the transformative power of sharing our stories. As we navigate life's complexities, let's remind ourselves of the brighter days ahead, fostering a community of support and understanding.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I'm eager to continue our conversations, sharing our experiences, and learning from each other. Here's to a March filled with hope, growth, and brighter days for all of us.

 

I hope you love this episode xoxo

Highlights:

[04:05:7] Listener Question

[08:22:5] Friendship Is A Two-Way Street

[09:15:8] What Friendship Is

[11:13:6] When To Set The Boundary

[18:12:2] Stand Up For Yourself

Hello, y'all. And welcome back to *This is for Us*. 

This week, I’m answering a listener’s questions sent to me through Instagram. I love it when I hear from y’all, and you send me questions. That’s precisely why I started this podcast and my goal for our community.  

What does it mean to be a friend? How do you learn to set boundaries? These are just some questions I’ll address in this week’s episode. I’ve realized the hard way why boundaries are important. My journey towards self-empowerment has not been easy, but it’s been so worth it! And I’m here to stand beside you while you learn where your boundaries are and how to set them. 

You are not alone in your struggles. I’m here to support you along your self-empowerment journey. You can overcome obstacles and learn to believe in yourself. You are worth it! The podcast is a safe space for reflection and personal growth. This community is here for you! We can build each other up as we cheer each other on. 

 I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

 

Highlights:

[01:00:6] Cheer Sport Week

[04:03:3] Valentine’s Day -  Finding Balance Amidst Chaos

[09:09:2] Reality vs. Social Media

[14:45:2] Sharing Personal Struggles

[27:31:5] Finding Strength in Shared Experiences

Hello, y'all. And welcome back to *This is for Us*. 

It is really freaking early here in Knoxville. And that is also because it is cheer sport week, and in my world of all-star cheerleading, it's a really big deal. It's something that we work for and push towards for months. It is one of the biggest weeks of our year, and this year, we are taking a ton of teams there and having really long days. Our first team starts around 7 a.m. so that we will be going until well after 10 p.m. with teams competing. So, I've been trying to practice. I'm not an early morning person, but I also work really late. I stay up really late. So, it will be a little bit crazy for just what I'm used to this weekend. So, send all the positive vibes our way. Be thinking about us this weekend.

This past Valentine's Day, I found myself reflecting on the complexities of life and love. As I stood in the doorway of my home, exhausted from another late night at the gym, I was greeted by a scene that warmed and weighed on my heart. My husband, Alan, had fallen asleep on the couch, waiting for me to return so we could share a meal together. It was a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes about the challenges we face in balancing our personal and professional lives.

Social media can be a double-edged sword, offering glimpses of perfection while concealing the messy realities of life. As Valentine's Day approached, I observed the flood of posts celebrating picture-perfect relationships, extravagant gifts, and romantic gestures. But behind the facade of perfection lies a truth that many of us are all too familiar with: life is messy, and love is imperfect.

In sharing my own struggles and insecurities, I hope to remind others that they are not alone. Whether you're a mom, a wife, a girlfriend, or simply navigating life alone, we all experience moments of doubt, fear, and vulnerability. It's okay to cry, to feel overwhelmed, and to admit that life isn't always perfect.

As I prepare for another busy weekend at the gym, I am reminded of the power of vulnerability and the strength that comes from sharing our experiences with others. Whether celebrating our successes or navigating life's challenges, we are stronger together. So, let's continue to support and uplift one another, embracing our imperfections and finding strength in our shared humanity.

 

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Hey everyone, it's been an eventful week over here, and I'm thrilled to share some personal stories and thoughts on Valentine's Day with you all.

First off, I had a cheerleading mishap a few years back that damaged my earlobe, but I've finally had it repaired and got my ears re-pierced, including a new helix piercing which, surprisingly, hasn't been painful at all. I also tried eyebrow lamination and tinting, which is a new experience for me, and I'm waiting to see how I feel about the darker look.

On a more sentimental note, it's my golden doodle Pailin's 10th birthday. Reflecting on our time together, she's been with me through thick and thin, and I'm incredibly grateful for her companionship. It's amazing how much we've both grown and the unconditional love she's given me.

With Valentine's Day around the corner, I want to shift the focus from the commercial aspect and talk about love in all its forms. Whether it's self-love, love for friends, family, or even strangers, it's important to recognize and celebrate it. I encourage you to be your own Valentine or to perform random acts of kindness to spread love to others.

I've had my share of lonely Valentine's Days, but I've learned to make the day special by showing love to others. One year, I left $20 bills with notes for strangers to find, which brought me immense joy. So, whether you're single or in a relationship, make Valentine's Day about all the love in your life, not just romantic love.

Remember, you have the power to make someone feel seen and loved. Let's use Valentine's Day as an opportunity to spread light and love in any way we can. And if you do something special or have ideas to share, I'd love to hear from you on Instagram.

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Highlights:

[00:00:34] Hoop earring mishap and earlobe repair.

[00:03:53] A golden doodle ornament.

[00:09:14] Love and motherhood.

[00:12:34] Spreading love through random acts.

[00:16:25] Being single on Valentine's Day.

[00:19:13] Valentine's Day and self-love.

[00:22:44] Making Valentine's Day meaningful.

 

In today's episode, I dive deep into the topic of drama, particularly within the world of women and teenage girls. As someone who owns an all-star cheerleading business, I'm constantly surrounded by females of all ages, and I've witnessed both the beauty and the ugliness of these relationships. I'm a staunch advocate for women supporting each other, but I also recognize the toxic "bubble" that can form, leading to gossip, rumors, and mean-spirited behavior.

I address those who are victims of drama, urging them not to give power to the perpetrators. It's essential to challenge oneself to rise above the negativity, to attend events despite the fear of judgment, and to remember that often, the issue is with just a few individuals rather than everyone.

For those who find themselves spreading rumors or being part of the problem, I call for self-reflection and change. It's never too late to apologize and make amends. I emphasize the importance of being a role model, especially for mothers and those in influential positions.

I passionately argue that being a "mean girl" isn't cool, and that true beauty lies in kindness and inner strength. I encourage listeners to protect others' names in their absence, to be inclusive, and to stand up for what's right. It's about creating a community where we support each other through tough times, without judgment or assumptions.

I also touch on the idea that we all have our own internal struggles and insecurities, and it's unfair to add to someone else's burden by being cruel. Instead, we should focus on being good humans, spreading love and positivity, and being lights in the darkness.

I call for an end to the "mean girl" culture and for a shift towards a narrative of empowerment, support, and genuine friendship. I want listeners to walk into any room with their heads held high, knowing their worth, and refusing to let anyone else's negativity define them. My hope is that this episode inspires you to embrace your value, to be a beacon of positivity, and to always remember how incredible you are.

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Highlights:

[00:01:03] Drama between women and girls.

[00:04:10] Overcoming the influence of others.

[00:08:34] Banding together against mean girls.

[00:11:56] Spreading rumors and hurting others.

[00:15:47] Being kind to others.

[00:19:20] Mean Girls and Self-Worth.

[00:23:25] Taking up freaking space.

 

In this episode, we dove deep into the concept of reframing our mindset to focus on the positive – a little mantra I like to call "give yourself a TIP," which stands for "Turn It Positive." I shared a personal dream that inspired this idea and discussed how we can apply it to our daily lives.

We all have moments where we feel overwhelmed or stressed, but I emphasized the importance of recognizing these feelings and consciously choosing to find the silver lining. Whether it's dealing with negative self-talk, facing challenges, or even something as simple as encountering traffic, there's always an opportunity to shift our perspective and find gratitude.

I also touched on the impact of our attitudes on others. Are we a source of light and positivity, or do we contribute to a cycle of negativity? It's crucial to consider how our interactions, even the briefest ones, can influence those around us.

Throughout the episode, I shared examples of how we can practice this positive shift, from being stuck in traffic and seeing it as extra personal time, to handling breakups and viewing them as fresh starts. It's all about building that "TIP muscle" and making gratitude a habit.

I hope this episode serves as a reminder that we're all in this together, facing similar struggles and striving for happiness. And remember, if you have any questions or topics you'd like me to cover, don't hesitate to reach out on Instagram @NoëlRobertsColey.

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Highlights:

[00:02:16] Turn it positive.

[00:06:40] Be thankful for what you have.

[00:07:53] Choosing positivity in daily life.

[00:12:06] Letting go and making room.

[00:15:39] Breathing life into others.

[00:19:09] Traffic in Knoxville, Tennessee.

[00:23:03] Traffic and personal growth.

[00:25:42] Starting over after a setback.

[00:29:23] Reminder of our similarities.

 

In today's episode of "This Is For Us," we dove deep into the concept of negativity and its contagious nature, drawing parallels between rotten fruit and toxic people in our lives. I shared a personal anecdote about how a rotten apple in my fruit bowl managed to spoil a fresh one just by being in close proximity, which led to a broader discussion about the influence of negative people.

We explored how negative individuals, much like rotten fruit, can spread their pessimism and toxicity to those around them, often without us even realizing it. I emphasized the importance of being mindful of the company we keep and the potential impact they can have on our perspectives and well-being.

The conversation also touched on the idea that if someone is consistently negative about others, they are likely to be the same about you when you're not around. It's crucial to trust your instincts and distance yourself from such influences to protect your own mental space.

I encouraged you all to reflect on your relationships and consider whether you might need to remove any "rotten fruit" from your life to make room for more positive and uplifting connections.

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

INSTACART CODE: NROBERTS46A1D7

 

Highlights:

[00:02:58] Staying busy during a snowstorm.

[00:03:51] Instacart grocery delivery.

[00:09:30] Rotten apple turning green.

[00:11:38] Toxic relationships and negativity.

[00:16:44] Rotten Fruit Syndrome.

[00:19:42] Trust your gut.

[00:21:29] Reviews and audience interaction.

 

In this episode, I dove deep into the themes of hard work, overcoming rejection, and the importance of perseverance. I shared personal reflections and stories to illustrate how these themes play out in our lives, especially in the world of sports.

I also touched on the concept of hard work and how it seems to be a diminishing value in today's society. I expressed concern about the growing trend of entitlement and laziness, especially among young athletes, and the need for a resurgence of dedication and commitment to achieving greatness.

Throughout the episode, I emphasized the idea that the most rewarding experiences often come from the hardest work and that we should not fear making mistakes, as they are opportunities for growth. I encouraged listeners to work for their dreams, trust the timing of their lives, and believe that good things will come their way.

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Highlights:

[00:07:09] Rejection equals protection.

[00:08:22] Trusting the timing of life.

[00:12:25] Something better is coming.\

[00:15:01] Hard work and entitlement.

[00:20:37] The value of hard work.

[00:23:06] Lack of preparation and regret.

[00:27:08] The importance of hard work.

[00:30:18] Embracing and learning from mistakes.

 

In this episode, I reflect on the common struggles and experiences that women share. I start by discussing a recent gathering with my girlfriends where we worked on our vision boards. I noticed that all of us had goals related to self-image, self-worth, and self-confidence. This led me to question why it is so difficult for us to stick with these goals and make positive changes in our lives. I explore the fear of failure and the overwhelming amount of advice and expectations placed on women. I encourage listeners to change their definition of failure and to take things one day at a time, celebrating small victories instead of focusing on slip-ups. I also emphasize the importance of giving ourselves grace and being kinder to ourselves. I share personal experiences with body image and the realization that I need to stop planning to fail and start planning to do the things that will make me feel better about myself. I discuss the power of choice and the need to seek validation from within rather than relying on others. 

I hope you love this episode xoxo

 

Highlights:

00:00:07 - Introduction and the mission of the podcast

00:02:00 - The importance of vision boards and a group activity

00:04:30 - The struggle of sticking with goals and the fear of failure

00:08:00 - The mindset change needed for success

00:10:30 - Giving ourselves grace and redefining failure

00:13:30 - Choosing our own path and staying in our own lane

00:16:00 - Flipping the script and seeking our own validation

00:19:00 - Building self-confidence and making mindful choices

00:22:00 - The purpose of the podcast and the desire for community

00:24:30 - Personal struggles and the need for clarity and peace

00:27:00 - Conclusion and gratitude for listeners' support