Hey Sweet Friends!
I have GOT to squeal!
I have been a busy bee working behind the scenes on several amazing projects. Ever have those moments that you make yourself proud?
This is one of my moments!
I am participating in my sweet friend, Kelly McCausey’s 2020 Stretch Yourself Challenge. I love Kelly’s challenges because she has a way of kickin’ my tail! 😉 This year’s challenge is the very best ever! I made a pretty formidable list for myself this year. I did that because last year when I joined her 2019 Stretch Yourself Challenge. It literally changed my life. It was a pivotal point in my life and my business.
Think back where I was last year….
I was working full time and going to school for my Master’s degree. I was on the “hamster wheel” and in spite of my great intentions and my great to-do lists, I was simply NOT getting the things I really wanted DONE.
Ever been there?
I truly did not know how I could get unstuck and moving again.
I wanted to.
I needed to.
BUT! I went month after month and year after year simply stuck.
I recommend the SYC because it changed everything for me!
I was able to do all of those things that I needed to do yet had absolutely no idea how I could get them done. There were so many things that needed to get done that I actually did not know where to begin. Yep! And, I am a business and ministry coach!
I think it was about several things for me.
- Starting! Just starting somewhere.
- Doing it in community! There is something about doing things in community. I was able to accomplish far more than I could have ever done on my own. Plus! I had the benefit of picking the brains of others who were either doing it at the same time or those who were just steps ahead of me. It was priceless!
- Deadlines! I jokingly say, “I work for mugs.” Kelly set deadlines and gave us a reward of our choice. I worked all month for her mug last year. 🙂 Of course, it was really more than the mug! It was about setting a deadline and choosing things that needed to get done, in spite of the fact that they “stretched me” in my already jam-packed life.
And it worked!
I had a list of things I wanted to achieve and a list of things that I simply “would like to achieve.” Imagine my delight as I achieved every single thing on my ENTIRE list! I cannot tell you how that made me feel. It also positioned my business and ministry so I could jump back in and jumpstart my new year back in full-time ministry and business.
I am sure that you may be thinking–I could do this on my own. I was thinking that same thing and I didn’t. I thought that for a long time and it did not happen. Relate?
I am sure I *MIGHT* have gotten around to it as well. Of course, I recommend the SYC because it takes us from “thinking about it” or “hoping to get around to it” to taking action and stretching ourselves to do things that normally get ignored.
The doors have closed for joining Kelly’s group this year, but she has a DIY version that you can use today. And…because I think community is priceless, when you grab it and work on your own challenges this month, I will do it alongside of you! 🙂
I am setting up a private mastermind that is my bonus gift for you if you go for it. Can you beat that?
Want to join me? We can even plan some fun things together and I promise to kick your tail! 🙂
Here is the link to “Stretch Yourself” now (Oh! Use a coupon code 2020SELFSTUDY to save $15) : https://cindyrushton.com/stretch
If you use my link, I will plan a weekly bonus session where we can all mastermind together. Soooo, join us already! ?
https://cindyrushton.com/stretch
Whoo hoo! I’m so impressed with how far you’ve come since SYC 2019.
I had no idea you were just starting that part of your business!
It really can be life changing. The deadlines help but as you said, the community is amazing. And, um, I am in it for the BROWNIES – but the mugs are nice, too – and a great reminder all year long that you are a Finisher!
Can’t wait to see all that you do this year!!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 19th, 2020 at 3:57 pm
Thanks Renee! It has ben amazing to see how much we can do when we just STRETCH! 🙂 I love the community and MUGS (or brownies! haha!) really do help add fun and support. There is power in community. We spur each other on. We hold each other accountable. We give each other clarity and perspective. I just love how SYC pulls all of it together for a fun challenge. Now, just gonna be clear, I am really pushing myself. It is a lot of hard work, but the support, encouragement, and fellowship when I am doing something hard is simply priceless. THANK you for being that support, encouragement, and fellowship as I push myself into uncomfortable things. 🙂 Cannot wait to see what you do this month. I am cheering you on!
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Cindy, I remember your “story” from last year’s SYC of having to start over after life changes. To see what you have accomplished in this past year is a whole lotta you making things happen with God as your partner.
I especially agree with your comment about:
“I could do this on my own. I was thinking that same thing and I didn’t. I thought that for a long time and it did not happen. Relate?”
YES! I can relate. Having the SYC guidebook is more than just 21 challenges to select from. It’s 21 kick start step-by-step checklists to help do what we initially think is beyond our abilities. Continued Blessings to you!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 19th, 2020 at 3:40 pm
Hi Lynn! Thanks! I really appreciate all you did last year and this year to help me reach my goals. That is what it is all about! I love the “community” in this challenge. It is powerful to set goals, but it is ultimately powerful to do it while others come alongside of you and help you to become all that you are designed to become. I am excited to see YOUR growth as well. You have transformed so much this year. I look forward to hearing what you accomplish this month. <3
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I love how you tell your story; I know I can relate and I’m sure so many others will as well. I remember the very first time I ever heard of the SYC. I thought it sounded great, and it was. But little did I know that it just gets better and better every time you go through it!
By the way, I work for mugs too. 😉
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 19th, 2020 at 4:27 pm
Hey Teresa! You are so right! I thought that last year was truly unbeatable. This year is way beyond last year. I wonder if it is because we have no limits to how much we can stretch if we just rise up and dare to do the difficult? That is what I decided to do this year. I am so excited to do it with you. I cannot wait to sew all that you get accomplished this month. I know it will bring eternal impact for everyone you touch! Let’s do this!
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I was thrilled to see you were back for another go round with the SYC this year, Cindy. I saw so much stretch and growth from you last year and it’s been awesome to see all the progress and action you’ve been making in this year’s challenge.
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 19th, 2020 at 4:23 pm
Tish, thank you! I am so thankful that I get to learn from you up close and personal during SYC. You will probably never know how much you impact me and help me reach my goals. THANKS! I hope that you also reach crazy awesome goals this month. Thanks for all you have done to be a part of me doing crazy awesome things this whole year!
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Yes, I agree that the Stretch Your Self Community is Priceless. I love all the great advice you gave during our triad. Yes, I totally agree the deadlines really are helping me to quickly achieve my goals. It’s so easy to put things off without a deadline.
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 19th, 2020 at 4:20 pm
Hi Amanda! Thank you! I have to say that your advice was priceless as well. You helped me process through several of my goals. That is one thing that is so important when we are stepping out to do something that is new or completely unknown. You are such an encourager. I cannot wait to see all that you accomplish this month. You have SUCH beautiful graphics. I cannot believe what value you give to others. You cannot help but to be a success as you help others to be a success. Let’s do it this month! HUGS!
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Cindy, you’ve come a long way, baby!! The Stretch Yourself Challenge is the highlight of the year for me and it appears that it is for you, too!
Getting started is always more than half the battle with ourselves. You’ve passed over that hurdle and now it becomes just a matter of keeping the fuel going.
You’re on fire this year with your activity and the momentum that has been sparked by the SYC will just keep propelling you forward. Don’t ever stop!!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 9:28 pm
Melissa, thank you! You are SPOT ON–getting started is always more than half the battle. It was definitely one of my biggest hindrances for far too long. I am excited about all of the things that you are doing as well. You SO inspire me! Your ideas during our Triad really helped clarify so much for me. I gained major momentum then. THANK YOU! I am waiting with baited breath to see all you accomplish this month! 🙂
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Cindy,
That kind of feedback about the Challenge is wonderful to hear. This is my first year and I am really getting a ton out of it, both with the challenges and in the community Kelly has created.
Congrats on all you’ve achieved, and looking forward to seeing how this year’s challenge ends for you. 🙂
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 9:33 pm
Suzanne, I am excited that you are doing the challenge this year as well. It is going to be awesome to see all that you accomplish. There is power in taking time to really focus in on getting things done. We are definitely stretching outside of our comfort zone. It cannot be anything less than awesome!
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WOW! I really love your energy and excitement! As I read about your experiences in the Stretch Yourself Challenge, I couldn’t help but get caught up in your joy. I am cheering you on as you exceed your expectations again thus year. ??
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WOW! I really love your energy and excitement! As I read about your experiences in the Stretch Yourself Challenge, I couldn’t help but get caught up in your joy. I am cheering you on as you exceed your expectations again thus year. ??
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WOW! I really love your energy and excitement! As I read about your experiences in the Stretch Yourself Challenge, I couldn’t help but get caught up in your joy. I am cheering you on as you exceed your expectations again thus year. ??
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 9:19 pm
Thank you SO much! It is awesome to see how much things can change just by getting out of our comfort zones. I am cheering you on as well! Can’t wait to see all you accomplish this month! 🙂
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WOW! I really love your energy and excitement! As I read about your experiences in the Stretch Yourself Challenge, I couldn’t help but get caught up in your joy. I am cheering you on as you exceed your expectations again thus year. ??
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Cindy, I know what you mean about the SYC changing your life. I first met you last year in a triad. And, then in person in Atlanta. Definitely a life-changer. I hope we can get together for another triad the last week of September. To your success with the SYC challenge!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 10:17 pm
Hi Tara! Thank you!! Same back at ya! I loved getting to triad with you and have time in Atlanta with you! I am about ready for another time for us to all hang out in person! 🙂 I pray that you have a very productive month. Can’t wait to see what you are up to!
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What an amazing story you have starting with rolling around a hamster wheel for a long time to running a robust website with your product offerings and strong people connections. Talk about what one year can do after jumping in on Kelly’s 2019 Stretch Challenge. I’m sure you’ll again move mountains this 2020. All the best and I look forward to you growing even stronger!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 10:15 pm
Maria, thank you!!! Just reading your comment slowed me down to think back over the year again. You are right! One year has truly made a huge difference. I cannot wait to see what you accomplish this month. Can you even imagine what things will look like next year? GLORIOUS!!!! I am excited to do this with you! 🙂
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I absolutely LOVE that you share your pride in your accomplishments! Right there you grabbed me, because you gave me permission to be proud of myself as well. Sharing a peek into your own life from a year ago made this so relatable, and I most appreciate when you mentioned “just starting somewhere” – YES!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 10:10 pm
Awww Kelly! THANK YOU! Yes, girlie you have MUCH to be proud of. There is a sweet power to just sitting back and enjoying your accomplishments. We live in a world that pushes for more and more without truly celebrating each of the accomplishments as we finish. Even though I crank out some papers at school, I truly try to give myself a few moments to just soak in the completion. It is a sweet. 🙂 I am so excited to see what you get done this month. I will be there celebrating you and soaking in the sweetness. This is just another treasure that is ours as we do community together. I am grateful you are part of my tribe! 🙂
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Glad to hear that the SYC was the kickstart that got you back into your ministry and business! Doing things in community does light a fire under the boot-ay to get things done, doesn’t it? Awesome to hear you’re starting your mastermind this year!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 10:05 pm
Hi Gabby! Thank you! I appreciate that. You said it right–community does put a fire under the BOOT-AY! haha! I needed it again. This was right on time. I sat down this weekend to get a good look at what was done and what can truly be done. I am just soooo thankful for this challenge that I could cry! It is priceless. I love that I am getting to do it with you this year. Can’t wait to see what you get done!
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Hey Cindy,
Your site design looks amazing and wow you certainly have accomplished a great deal.
I am glad your in the Stretch Yourself Challenge, you always stop by my posts and make it a point to give a super motivational comment and I really appreciate you.
Your right about the stretch yourself challenge, it is like nothing I have ever done. I have accomplished more in my life and my business in the last two and a half weeks then I have in a very long time. I would recommend the challenge to anyone wanting to grow.
I was on the roller coaster of making everyone else around me happy, I forgot I had a goal and a purpose myself and the Stretch Yourself Challenge and the Forum have really changed my life.
You have the perfect Bonus offer for anyone wanting to grab the challenge through your link, they will not be disappointed for sure.:)
Thank you for sharing Cindy
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 10:02 pm
Debora, I LOVE doing this with you. I did not even think about the benefit for those who are always doing for everyone else–SYC is a perfect way to do those things that are FOR YOU and yet truly bless everyone around you forever. I cannot wait to see what you accomplish this month. I know it will be characteristically incredible–you always go above and beyond. I am cheering you on!!! 🙂
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I could feel your excitement in your post. It is wonderful to see so much enthusiasm. So how is your mastermind group working out. That is an awesome idea and one I might try in the future.
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 9:52 pm
Hi Robin! Thanks for your sweet post! My mastermind is very intimate and sweet. I hope to make this expand into our full mastermind–act surprised when you see all of my challenges. 🙂 I love the power of community. This is a great way to brainstorm, through those ideas before others, and then go for great things together! So fun!
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It is so true, we get so caught up in our daily lives, we don’t quite get around to doing the things that we really want to do. Its wonderfully, amazing how we put in the very focused effort for one month and the returns on that effort are ongoing.
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 9:47 pm
Lori, you are so right! One month of intention can change everything. I love seeing how we are conquering those things that are just big obstacles in the way and are now becoming parts of what we do! Isn’t that awesome? This month changes everything!
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This is my first year in the Stretch Yourself Challenge and I too have become “unstuck” I have been stuck for months in the analysis paralysis game. So many choices to make and I would just freeze and not make them. I may not finish all the challenges I wanted to this year, but I have already finished two and most importantly I am moving. Exactly what I needed!
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 21st, 2020 at 9:43 pm
Shannah! I am SO excited for you! First, congrats on what you have already accomplished. YAyyyyy! Also, cannot wait to see everything that you are doing this month. 🙂 You are right–analysis paralysis is sooo awful. I love seeing us all back in the game. This year is going to be the best ever!
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I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that you have had a similar experience in the challenge. It makes it like a private aha moment club <3 I can’t believe the things that used to be stretches are now normal lol
BUT, my favorite part of this post of course is you being proud of yourself. I love seeing how happy you are because you own what you are good at and have accomplished. I celebrate that with you 🙂
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 22nd, 2020 at 5:06 pm
Val–I LOVE doing this challenge with you! I completely agree–it is awesome that what ONCE stretched us is now our every day normal. Isn’t that AMAZING???? SYC is truly stretching us into the person and the business that we need to be. That is BOLD! 😉
I was literally JUST relistening to your BOLDLY YOU replays. I have been on a journey of really learning to be proud of myself when I accomplish. There is something about celebrating ME. If I cannot celebrate me, how on earth can I truly celebrate others??? Oh! I am soooo grateful to be on this journey with you. I cannot wait to see what YOU accomplish this month. I know it will be AWESOME! <3
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I found many great insights in your post Cindy. I too have found that having a community is an encouragement and a place to go to for help.
It’s fun to compete with others and win prizes, but I agree with your statement that it’s not about that: “It was about setting a deadline and choosing things that needed to get done, in spite of the fact that they “stretched me” in my already jam-packed life.”
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 22nd, 2020 at 5:11 pm
Tina, I completely agree! I am so excited to be “S-T-R-E-T-C-H-I-N-G” with you this year. I love that you brought out that this is in the midst of our already jam-packed life. I thought about that yesterday. I am currently working on my Master’s degree. The course I am in right now is REALLY INTENSE and STRETCHING me on its own. It is placing a demand on my life that is really challenging. If I were not doing SYC, this would be 8 weeks of being STUCK in my business. With SYC, I am actually challenging myself to balance everything. It is soooo much more beautiful. It is the life I want to live. This is a month of proving to myself anew that I can do big things when I focus in and intentionally challenge myself. I love doing that with you. I cannot wait to see all you accomplish this month. Be your very best self. It is beautiful sweet friend! 🙂
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Kudos, on completing everything on your list. You’ve raised the bar for your next challenge … that’s why it’s called a challenge, right. Yes, I can relate to this statement. “I am sure that you may be thinking–I could do this on my own.” For too long, I was a lone-wolf. It’s impossible to grow a profitable business and live a fulfilling life as a lone-wolf. Your clients will reap the benefits from you stretching yourself.
I appreciate your insights, ideas and suggestions you gave in our Triad. Continued success.
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Cindy Rushton Reply:
September 22nd, 2020 at 5:16 pm
Adalia, it is wonderful to see you here! Welcome to my “home” on the web! 🙂 THANK YOU for encouraging me. It does feel good to accomplish the things I put on that formidable to-do list. Then it also feels great to do it with others. I agree that it is so tough when we try to do it alone. I love community. In fact, community is one of my personal values and priorities. It is part of the model I have been building as a business/ministry. I do not need a pulpit. I value being “in the trenches” and step-by-step with others as we run this race. You are sooo right that as I stretch, others benefit. Likewise, when others dare to stretch, I benefit. We are meant to do community! I am cheering you on as you reach for those amazing goals. Can’t wait to see all you accomplish! <3
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Cindy, I think it’s so awesome you are setting up a private mastermind for your community! One of the things I love best about the challenge is the support I get from the other people in the challenge. You are an angel!
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Oh, I can so relate to thinking that I can do this myself, I’ve got this, etc etc! There’s magic in the built-in accountability of the challenge and the contagious excitement of doing the challenges along with a group. Here’s to you rocking another year of SYC!
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Ahhh yes… “the “hamster wheel” – been there. Done That. And sometimes I still get caught on the that darn wheel. One of the things I love about the SYC is that the community provides the boost to get me off the wheel!
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Cindy, it’s been so awesome to get to know you this year. You are an inspiration. I look at the people, like you, who were new stretchers last year and see how stinking MUCH you are doing this year and say, “That’s going to be me next year!” Taking leaps and bounds… but first to get this biz set up. 😉
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I really enjoyed your post. Thank you! The title is great. It is wonderful that through Kelly “kicking your tail” she has also changed your life. The Mastermind Challenge is a good way to encourage people to secure the DIY version. The line “I work for mugs” is priceless. You are so correct about the deadlines making a difference. It is encouraging to see so many SYC return participants. I now work for mugs as well, and hope to see you next year at the SYC.
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I so enjoyed our Triad coaching session and wouldn’t have had that opportunity without the Stretch Yourself Challenge! I too find that having deadlines is very motivating. Glad to hear that you have gotten so much accomplished this month!
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I love the way you tell your story Cindy. Kudos to you for making so many changes and getting everything done that you achieved. If I didn’t know about the challenge and read your blog post it would make me very interested to check it out. Congratulations, keep going for it all. 🙂
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I can’t wait to join this awesome community and the mastermind sessions. I see that I don’t have to do this alone!
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