Daily letters from the restaurant owner, and general manager Christine Fauver. These are written to her restaurant kitchen team and front of the house servers to show her appreciation for what they do and to encourage them not only at work but in their daily lives.

Daily Encouragement for 4-17-2024

Resetting your mind and body is crucial for optimal performance, whether in weight training or life in general. Taking the time to reset allows you to refocus, recharge, and approach the next set or event with renewed energy and clarity.
In weight training, taking short breaks between sets helps recover your muscles, maintain proper form, and prepare mentally for the next set. It ensures that you can give your best effort consistently throughout your workout.
Similarly, in life, taking moments to reset can be a game-changer. It’s not just about managing stress or making better decisions but also about maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. Whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a short walk, finding ways to reset your mind can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and success, giving you the power to live a more fulfilling life.
So, whether lifting weights or navigating life’s challenges, remember the importance of resetting your mind and body. It’s a powerful tool to help you perform at your best and live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.  

Daily Encouragement for 4-16-2024

Each day is a new opportunity to learn. Learning to be teachable is a crucial skill to develop for success. Learning is a lifelong process that should never stop. Purposefully expanding your knowledge will set you in a growth mindset. The importance of learning each day cannot be overstated. By learning something new daily, you can improve your knowledge, skills, and abilities, which will mentally and physically benefit you. Choosing a growth mindset takes practice and dedication. Stepping outside your comfort zone daily will give you the confidence to navigate trials strategically rather than reactively.   Choosing to develop new skills and purposefully increasing your chances of success and personal growth takes dedication. Constructing a forward-thinking mindset may seem difficult initially, but with practice and commitment, you will find freedom in the unknown because learning is good for your brain. Research has shown that learning new things daily may reduce the risk of cognitive decline as you age. Learning can boost your confidence and self-esteem as you acquire new knowledge and skills. Choosing to stay in a stagnant place and purposefully repeating the vicious circle of critical thinking, embracing a lack of drive, and choosing distraction will never allow you to break through to the freedom you were created for. You were selected for this special day. You were not an accident, and this situation you are currently facing can either grow you and give you a greater compassion for those around you, or you can choose a stagnant life. You are always making a choice each day.
I encourage you to learn each day for your mental and physical health. Keeping your brain active and healthy will give you physical freedom. So, set aside time each day to learn something new, whether small or big. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.   

Daily Encouragement for 4-15-2024

Fear has a peculiar way of holding us back. It whispers doubts in our ears, paints worst-case scenarios in our minds, and often keeps us anchored to the familiar. Yet, growth and progress reside outside our comfort zones in the vast expanse of the unknown. To truly evolve and reach our fullest potential, we must learn to overcome our fears and take that crucial next step.
It’s natural to feel apprehensive when facing uncertainty. Deconstructing our current situation and mentally reconstructing a new path takes dedication. But therein lies its beauty and potential. Each step into the unknown is an opportunity to learn, grow, and redefine our limits. It’s a journey of self-discovery, of unearthing hidden strengths and capabilities we never knew we possessed. This journey is not just about the destination; it’s about the growth and transformation we experience along the way.
Overcoming fear is not about banishing it entirely but learning to navigate through it. It’s about acknowledging its presence, understanding its roots, and reframing our perspective. Instead of viewing fear as an obstacle, we can see it as a compass guiding us toward what truly matters. It’s a reminder that what lies ahead is significant and worthy of our pursuit.
Taking the next step, despite our fears, requires courage. It’s a conscious decision to push past our limitations, embrace discomfort, and trust in our ability to adapt and thrive. It’s about choosing growth over stagnation, resilience over defeat, and hope over despair. Cultivating courage is not just a fleeting emotion; it’s a testament to your strength and resilience; it’s an exercise in seeing your true potential.
So, the next time fear attempts to hold you back, remember this: within you lies an untapped reservoir of strength and resilience. You can rewrite your narrative, transform fear into fuel, and embark on the next chapter of your journey with unwavering determination.
Embrace the unknown with no judgment. Don’t be afraid to fail. Take that next step, and watch as new horizons unfold before you, revealing possibilities beyond your wildest dreams. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.  

Daily Encouragement for 4-14-2024

It’s the beginning of a new week, and while we’ve been discussing which mental class you might take this month, I’d like to shift our focus to something equally important: the art of taking a class in
 non-offense. This perspective can be transformative, allowing you to live more freely in the moment and cultivate inner peace.
Choosing not to take offense is more than a practice; it’s a potent tool that can unlock greater personal freedom and enhance mental well-being. It equips you with the ability to respond calmly and rationally, empowering you to control your reactions rather than being swayed by perceived slights or criticisms. Engaging in mindfulness practices further strengthens this ability, allowing you to be more present in the moment. By observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment, you can identify when you’re starting to feel offended and choose a more balanced response.
It takes practice to understand the perspective of others, which can help you depersonalize situations and avoid taking things too personally. This empathetic approach fosters understanding and compassion.
Reflect on your sensitivities and triggers. Understanding why specific comments or actions affect you can help you develop resilience and a thicker skin, allowing you to navigate challenging situations easily.
If something bothers you, consider addressing it calmly and assertively. Open, honest communication can often resolve misunderstandings and prevent future conflicts, fostering healthier relationships. Focus on the good in people and situations to cultivate a positive outlook. This optimistic approach can help you maintain emotional equilibrium and a balanced perspective when faced with offensive or challenging situations.
By embracing these transformative strategies and choosing not to take offense, you can unlock a new level of personal freedom and live more authentically in the present moment. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.  

Daily Encouragement for 4-13-2024

Today, I want to discuss what fuels your body and mind—your primary motivation and why. Just as your body requires quality fuel to run efficiently, your minds, too, demand proper nourishment to function optimally.
The food we consume is not just fuel for our bodies; it’s a source of hope for our minds. It provides the energy needed for physical activities, growth, and repair, but its impact goes beyond that. There’s a strong correlation between diet and cognitive function, mood, and mental health. Certain nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, are associated with improved mood and reduced risk of depression. Similarly, antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can protect the brain from oxidative stress, potentially lowering the risk of cognitive decline. (From Novice to Marathon Runner: Your Comprehensive Guide From Novice to Marathon Runner: Your Comprehensive Guide. https://fizzymag.com/articles/from-novice-to-marathon-runner-your-comprehensive-guide)
Your ‘why’ is not just a question, it’s a powerful tool that can ignite your motivation. It’s about understanding the purpose behind your actions, the driving force that propels you forward. How are you approaching your day? Who do you want to be today? How are you habit-stacking? What boundaries are you drawing for your success? What goals have you set? How are you measuring these essential things in your life?
You have often heard me ask you what your hunger level is. I usually ask if you ate a good meal before stepping into your shift. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for sustained energy and mood stability. A balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar, preventing energy crashes and mood swings. (From Novice to Marathon Runner: Your Comprehensive Guide From Novice to Marathon Runner: Your Comprehensive Guide. https://fizzymag.com/articles/from-novice-to-marathon-runner-your-comprehensive-guide)
Today, reconnect with your ‘why’—the core motivation driving you towards your goals. Understanding this underlying passion can serve as your guiding light, fueling your mind and body to move forward persistently, even in the face of challenges. Let it remind you of the purpose behind your journey and inspire you to stay committed to your aspirations. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.   

Daily Encouragement for 4-12-2024

This month, we have focused on managing our emotions, creating a structured plan to manage emotions, cultivating mindfulness throughout the day, pausing in our day, preparing for the day, the importance of sleep, and warming up before the day begins. It’s time to choose the class you want to attend at the mental gym. Choose who you will be today. Remember the liberating power of choice as you step into a new day brimming with possibilities and hurdles. Your past experiences or circumstances do not hold the reins. You have the freedom to decide who you want to be, not just now but throughout the day. Purposefully choose to set intentions for the day ahead, envisioning the person you aspire to be. Whether it’s kindness, resilience, or creativity, remind yourself that you can cultivate these qualities. Choosing the mental class or intention for the day will help you remain mindful of thoughts, words, and actions. Each choice allows you to align yourself with the person you want to become. When faced with challenges or difficult emotions, remember your chosen program and draw upon your inner strength and resilience to respond with grace and compassion. Scanning the list of programs or classes available at the mental gym is an opportunity to grow or stretch yourself. Each class is an opportunity to see if this is the proper regime for your success. Who you want to be is not a one-time decision but an ongoing practice. It requires self-awareness, intentionality, and a willingness to grow and evolve. Each day presents new opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth, which is why there are so many roads to success. I encourage you to embrace them wholeheartedly. Investing in mentally perusing the gym schedule and finding the class that suits your level and schedule takes courage. Integrating this choice into your mindset of becoming the person you aspire to be today is hard work. You will build up stamina and soon be reflecting on your preferences and actions with kindness and curiosity. This is a skill that requires daily practice. Remember, your happiness is your responsibility.

Daily Encouragement for 4-11-2024

As you gear up for another day, I hope this note finds you in high spirits! I’m sharing some insight that might add an extra pep to your step and help you make the most of your day. Remember, you’re in control of your day, and starting it on a positive note can make all the difference.
You know that feeling when you hit the gym and start with a good warm-up? It’s not just about preventing injury or getting your blood pumping; it’s about preparing your body and mind for the work ahead. Well, guess what? That principle applies outside the gym, too.
Just as a physical warm-up prime your muscles for exercise, taking a few moments each morning to mentally warm-up can set a positive tone for the entire day. It’s like giving your mind a gentle stretch, getting it ready to tackle whatever challenges or opportunities come your way.
Why not start your day with a mental warm-up routine? It’s like a refreshing splash of water on your face, waking up your mind and setting a positive tone for the day. You could try a few minutes of peaceful meditation, jotting down your day’s goals, or simply taking a few deep breaths and focusing on gratitude. The key is to give yourself that intentional time to ease into the day, setting a positive tone for the hours ahead.
Think of it as investing in your mental well-being. Just like how we prioritize physical health through exercise, prioritizing mental health through a morning warm-up can lead to greater resilience, focus, and overall happiness.
Remember, it’s not about how much time you spend on it but the intention behind it. Even just a few minutes can make a world of difference.
So, before you jump into the hustle and bustle of your day, take a moment to give your mind a little TLC. Your future self will thank you for it. It is essential always to be forward-thinking. Push the needle just 1%.  
I pray your day is full of positivity, productivity, and smiles! Remember, your joy is your job—no one else’s.

Daily Encouragement for 4-10-2024

Imagine yourself preparing to go to the gym. Each day is a chance to push yourself just a little bit further, to grow by 1%. Stretching, often overlooked or dreaded, is a simple yet powerful tool. I’m here to encourage you to stretch yourself, both mentally and physically. Scientifically, we know that stretching releases endorphins, reducing stress hormones and boosting mood and mental well-being. It’s a stress-buster. Did you know that tense muscles are often a physical sign of stress? Your body keeps the score. Stretching can relieve muscle tension, leading to relaxation and a calmer mind. It also promotes deep breathing, triggering the body’s relaxation response and reducing anxiety.
Today, I encourage you to explore how stretching can enhance mood and emotional regulation. Emotional regulation is vital for your day-to-day success. You can choose to live in a mindless, stressful, bitter, or chaotic place, or you can choose a growth mindset, a calm presence of mind, a forward-thinking attitude, or an observant place.
Did you know that stretching can improve cognitive function? Increased blood flow to the brain during stretching delivers oxygen and nutrients, enhancing cognitive performance and mental clarity. Additionally, stretching reduces muscle tension that can contribute to headaches and migraines, thus improving focus and concentration.
We’ve talked about the importance of sleep and circadian rhythm health. Stretching before bedtime can be a game-changer for your sleep quality. A simple stretching routine prepares your body for rest, improving sleep onset. Better sleep quality leads to improved mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. So, why not give it a try?
 Since we know that stretching is beneficial for physical and mental well-being, please consider trading your before-bed scrolling or watching TV for stretching. Wait for your body and mind to thank you. Remember: your joy is YOUR job.

Daily Encouragement for 4-9-2024

A profound yet often overlooked element in pursuing mental fitness is the art of pausing. In a world that glorifies non-stop hustle, it’s crucial to recognize the transformative power of a pause in your mental fitness journey.

Picture this: midway through an emotionally taxing event, your pulse quickens, your breathing feels hard, and your body is tense. At that moment, consider pausing instead of pushing yourself into fight or flight.

Pause to catch your breath, allowing your heart rate to settle. Pause to tune into your body’s cues and listen to its whispers of fatigue and strength. Pause to marvel at your body’s incredible capabilities, even in moments of perceived weakness.

Pausing is about mental rejuvenation. Take a moment to reset your mindset, shifting from self-doubt to self-belief. Remind yourself of how far you’ve come and your limitless potential. Don’t stop moving forward. You are only stuck if you stop.

Amid a busy schedule, pausing may seem like a luxury you can’t afford. However, it’s precisely during these moments of stillness that actual growth occurs. By permitting yourself to pause, you replenish your physical energy and foster mental clarity and resilience.

Furthermore, pausing isn’t a sign of stagnation. It’s a strategic move that propels you to reach the mental fitness that will lead you to freedom—freedom to fail, freedom to explore, freedom to be curious. Pausing allows you to gather strength and momentum for the next phase of your life, and it gives you a sense of control and confidence.

The next time you’re tempted to push through the difficult moments without a pause, remember this: there is a rhythm and empowerment and self-discovery in the pause. Embrace it as a crucial part of your journey towards mental well-being. Celebrate the moments of stillness as opportunities for growth, and witness as your experience evolves from a mere routine into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

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Daily Encouragement for 4-8-2024

Today, I want to talk about the importance of sleep and how it impacts your brain.
 Have you ever heard of circadian rhythm health? Circadian rhythm is your body’s natural internal clock. This intricate system influences sleep-wake patterns, hormone release, metabolism, and cognitive function. Since this month is all about mental exercise, I wanted to bring up circadian rhythm health because it’s the very foundation of health and wellness physically, emotionally, and mentally. I encouraged each of you to exercise at least three times a week because regular exercise will change the trajectory of your circadian rhythm. When you are physically active, you synchronize your internal clock. When your internal clock is in sync, your body is ready to get a restful night’s sleep.

It’s super important to be mindful when you’re exercising. I use something called the 321 rule. I don’t eat 3 hours before bed. I don’t exercise 2 hours before bed, and I do my best to stay off the computer or my phone 1 hour before bed. When my circadian rhythm is disrupted, I need to look at how disciplined I am with the 3 2 1 rule I set for myself. Try the 3 2 1 rule. Consider taking baby steps and starting with not eating 3 hours before bed. All of that was super difficult for me initially, but with time, I stacked habits supporting circadian rhythm health and wellness. In addition to eating at the right time before bed, exercising at least 2 hours before bed, and putting away all screens 1 hour before bed, I encourage each of you to get outside first thing in the morning. Morning sunlight helps reset your body’s internal clock. I keep a light at the restaurant that is available to each of you. It’s in the drawer and available for 5 minutes in the morning. Isn’t it incredible that our bodies do not need more than 5 minutes of purposeful light in the morning to make such a huge difference in our sleep at night? When I wasn’t disciplined with my circadian rhythm health, I found this tool helpful and wanted to make sure it was available to each team member.
I am so proud of you for making small steps towards a healthy brain and a healthy you. Your joy is your job. I know you hear me say it all the time. Continue moving that needle just 1%. Do the next thing. Take an inventory of what you’re prioritizing today. Today is a great day to start a new mindset.