Welcome to Season 2, Episode 1 of Imagine the Possibilities with Skip Pogue! As we step into 2025, I want to kick off the year with heartfelt reflections on the holiday season, a celebration of personal growth, and a call to embrace new opportunities. I want to begin by sharing my appreciation for Christmas, which holds a deep spiritual significance for me. It is a time for me to reflect on faith, hope, and the gift of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
I am going to take us through my podcast journey, from overcoming self-doubt to launching my first season in 2024 with the unwavering support of family and friends. Their encouragement, coupled with determination, led to a year of growth and discovery. Now, I’m ready to build on that foundation with a renewed focus for 2025.
This episode emphasizes key themes: setting realistic, attainable goals; practicing forgiveness as a pathway to healing; and letting go of anger to cultivate happiness. I want to introduce you to three of my guiding affirmations, such as becoming a better version of oneself every day and refusing to let others impose limitations on us.
Join me in “imagining the possibilities” this year as we work toward personal, professional, and spiritual growth, with our shared support for each other. Always remember that our future belongs to us. Stay humble, be kind, love deeply, and laugh often. I hope the everyone has a SUPER day and pray that God blesses each of you in a SUPER way!
5 comments on “Happy New Year”
I enjoyed your podcast!!!
You are in sync with the Mayo Clinic regarding anger. I also find it “necessary” to verbally correct folks’ driving errors even though they can’t hear me.
Here’s what the Mayo Clinic has to say:
Anger management: 10 tips to tame your temper
Keeping your temper in check can be challenging. Use simple anger management tips — from taking a timeout to using “I” statements — to stay in control.
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a common and even healthy emotion. But it’s important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships.
Ready to get your anger under control? Start by considering these 10 anger management tips.
1. Think before you speak
In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to say something you’ll later regret. Take a few moments to collect your thoughts before saying anything. Also allow others involved in the situation to do the same.
2. Once you’re calm, express your concerns
As soon as you’re thinking clearly, express your frustration in an assertive but nonconfrontational way. State your concerns and needs clearly and directly, without hurting others or trying to control them.
3. Get some exercise
Physical activity can help reduce stress that can cause you to become angry. If you feel your anger escalating, go for a brisk walk or run. Or spend some time doing other enjoyable physical activities.
4. Take a timeout
Timeouts aren’t just for kids. Give yourself short breaks during times of the day that tend to be stressful. A few moments of quiet time might help you feel better prepared to handle what’s ahead without getting irritated or angry.
5. Identify possible solutions
Instead of focusing on what made you mad, work on resolving the issue at hand. Does your child’s messy room make you upset? Close the door. Is your partner late for dinner every night? Schedule meals later in the evening. Or agree to eat on your own a few times a week. Also, understand that some things are simply out of your control. Try to be realistic about what you can and cannot change. Remind yourself that anger won’t fix anything and might only make it worse.
6. Stick with ‘I’ statements
Criticizing or placing blame might only increase tension. Instead, use “I” statements to describe the problem. Be respectful and specific. For example, say, “I’m upset that you left the table without offering to help with the dishes” instead of “You never do any housework.”
7. Don’t hold a grudge
Forgiveness is a powerful tool. If you allow anger and other negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by your own bitterness or sense of injustice. Forgiving someone who angered you might help you both learn from the situation and strengthen your relationship.
8. Use humor to release tension
Lightening up can help diffuse tension. Use humor to help you face what’s making you angry and, possibly, any unrealistic expectations you have for how things should go. Avoid sarcasm, though — it can hurt feelings and make things worse.
9. Practice relaxation skills
When your temper flares, put relaxation skills to work. Practice deep-breathing exercises, imagine a relaxing scene, or repeat a calming word or phrase, such as “Take it easy.” You might also listen to music, write in a journal or do a few yoga poses — whatever it takes to encourage relaxation.
10. Know when to seek help
Learning to control anger can be a challenge at times. Seek help for anger issues if your anger seems out of control, causes you to do things you regret or hurts those around you.
Love the positive thoughts.
Hello and Happy New Year, George Ann. I hope all is well with you and pray that God continues to bless you throughout 2025. Take care of youeself and know that Brenda and I love you.
Great podcast
Thanks Bob. I’m glad you enjoyed it. Happy New Year. Love you brother. God bless.