Transformative Heart Checks for Leaders

 Episode Title: Transformative Heart Checks for Leaders

Welcome to a journey where faith and mental wellness intertwine to foster a life of purpose and peace. In this episode, Marcus Hart dives deep into the spiritual and practical, providing invaluable insights for veterans, active service members, and anyone seeking to enhance their mental resilience and leadership through a faith-based approach.

Episode Highlights:

• Faith-Enhanced Mental Resilience: Explore spiritual practices that strengthen mental fortitude.
• Managing Stress & Anxiety: Unlock practical techniques to navigate life's pressures with grace.
• Leadership Through Spiritual Growth: Discover how to nurture leadership abilities grounded in faith.
• Holistic Self-Care: Embrace strategies that honor both your mental health and faith journey.
• Community Support Systems: Learn methods to cultivate robust networks that support and uplift.

Community and Membership: Join the Transformation Collective and access monthly memberships that provide holistic guides, eBooks, webinars for $9.99/month. Start your journey toward a resilient and transformative life. Visit Transformation Collective

Sponsorship Acknowledgement: This episode is proudly supported by Rewards® from Southwest®, encouraging us to seize every opportunity. Discover more healthcare essentials and bonus experiences through Rapid Rewards®.

Personal Insight: Marcus Hart shares powerful transformations from his personal and professional experiences, highlighting the profound positive changes birthed from combining faith and mental health strategies. This episode offers hope and clear steps toward healing, particularly for those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, or everyday stress.

Ideal Audience: Perfect for veterans, service members, and anyone eager to reinforce their mental health through spiritual practices. Share this episode to inspire and bring hope to someone in need today. Subscribe for weekly doses of inspiration and actionable steps towards mental wellness through faith.

Watch and Listen:

• YouTube: Watch Now
• Podcast: Listen Here

Episode Chapters:

• 00:00 - Welcome to the Transform U Live Show
• 01:51 - Importance of Heart Check for Mental Health
• 08:07 - How to Perform a Heart Check
• 11:25 - Today's Sponsor: Transformation Collective
• 12:10 - Like, Comment, Subscribe
• 12:23 - Personal Story: The Impact of Heart Checks
• 22:05 - Trusting God in Daily Life
• 24:14 - Inviting God Into Decisions
• 26:20 - Faith's Role in Emotional Health
• 27:20 - Faith and Leadership Dynamics
• 34:43 - Incorporating Faith into Mental Health Practices
• 41:40 - Leadership Insights
• 44:10 - Heart-Centered Leadership Approaches
• 49:50 - Conducting a Heart Inventory
• 53:18 - Action Steps for Personal Growth
• 57:23 - Closing Remarks

Join the Transformation Collective: Embrace a faith-based approach to wellness and leadership success. For a limited time, join us at just $9.99/month. Press play, transform your life today.

Contact Information: For inquiries and speaking requests, contact Marcus Hart:

• Phone: +1-414-939-5777
• Email: press@marcus-hart.com

Join us in this spiritual and mental transformation. Your journey to resilience and growth begins here.

Transcripts

Marcus Hart (00:00)

Hello and welcome everyone to the Transform You Live Show. That's Transform the Letter You Live Show. I'm your host Marcus Hart and I'm absolutely delighted that you have tuned in for this special episode titled, Check Your Heart, Trust in God for a Happier Saturday and Beyond. Today we'll explore how faith, mental health and leadership all intersect to help you grow into the best version.

of yourself. You know, many of us are carrying around stress from our work. I mean, by the time we get to Saturday is stay in the bed. Don't get up. Let's just forget about the week that just has passed by. Maybe we have had financial worries or concerns along the way about how to lead effectively in our families or our workplaces. If you feel

way down, I want you to know that you are not alone. The good news is that we can turn to God for guidance, healing, and hope. Throughout today's episodes, we will dive deep into practical tools for nurturing your mental health, building stronger leadership skills, and ultimately living with way more joy. Let's get started.

Marcus Hart (01:50)

Okay, before we dive deeper into practical strategies and personal stories, I want to take this entire segment to truly set the tone for why checking your heart is such a crucial step in fostering both mental health and leadership growth. When I say check your heart, I'm referring to a moment of intentional pause, an opportunity to examine what's really going on inside your mind and your soul before you continue moving forward.

In our fast paced world, it's far too easy to prioritize external goals like hitting that next financial milestone, finishing a big project at work, or even making sure everyone else's needs are met while at the same time, overlooking our very own internal well-being. We often assume we can just keep going until we reach the elusive finish line. But let's be honest here. We all know in our hearts that ignoring our emotional health

for far too long is like a ticking time bomb. Eventually, it catches up with us in the form of burnout, regret, anxiety, or even fractured relationships. That's why I want to encourage you today to carve out space for self-reflection, prayer, and letting God illuminate areas in your heart that might need attention, healing, or realigning. Think of this process as a spiritual heart scan.

as you spend time in quiet reflection, maybe through prayer, journaling, or even just a peaceful walk outside. You allow yourself to see what might be buried underneath the surface. It could be a lingering resentment of some sort you haven't dealt with, a dream you put on hold, or even a fear you tried to downplay. But by checking your heart, you are going to be granting yourself permission to acknowledge these things

head on. And once you bring them to the light, you can invite God to work on them with you. The scripture reminds us in Psalm 139, 23 to 24, search me God and know my heart test me in my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in and lead me in the way everlasting. This is the essence of a heart check, an invitation for the Holy Spirit to guide you toward a clear path in a freer mind. Now,

You might be thinking that sounds great in theory, Marcus, but I got a lot of responsibilities, family finances, work delays, and there's barely enough time in a day, Marcus. I hear you. hear you. Life can be jam packed. Yet that's precisely why making time to perform this inner check is so pivotal. When we neglect our own inner world, we grow more prone to confusion and plus being impulsive or decision fatigue as leaders.

Rather you lead in church ministry, a business team, or even just guiding your very own children through life, this confusion can seep into every interaction you have. On the flip side, the leader who regularly checks their heart and aligns with God's guidance is less likely to be swayed by monetary pressures or chaotic emotions. Instead, they carry a calm, grounded presence that inspires confidence in those around them. Let's talk about mental health in this context.

anxiety, depression, stress. These can overwhelm us when we're constantly running on empty internally. And believe me, just because we're believers doesn't mean we are immune to these challenges. Checking your heart is about engaging in self-compassion, recognizing that God cares about your mental and emotional state as much as he cares about your spiritual growth. Sometimes.

The most faith-filled action you can take is admitting you're not OK and seeking the necessary support, whether that's counseling, talking to a trusted friend, or spending genuine, unrushed time in prayer. One benefit of adopting this heart check practice is that it helps us recognize triggers regarding our emotional and mental well-being. Let's say you notice your stress level spike every time you open

an email in the morning. That's a clue that your heart is giving you, telling you that maybe some deeper adjustments need to be made. Perhaps reorganizing your schedule, setting healthier boundaries with colleagues, or learning to delegate tasks more effectively. Without that intentional moment of reflection, we often breeze past these red flags and risk falling into a deeper cycle of unease or despair.

From a faith perspective, they say out of the overflow of the heart that the mouth speaks, that's Matthew 12, 34. We can't genuinely lead others towards clarity, vision, or unity if our internal dialogue is full of self-doubt, frustration, or unresolved pain. Have you ever snapped at someone for no apparent reason, only to realize later it was because you were stressed about something completely unrelated? That's exactly what happens when we skip the heart check step.

our unaddressed emotional burden spill right over into our interactions with others. Conversely, we leave from a heart that's constantly being examined, renewed, and filled with grace, the overflow of our words and actions becomes compassionate, understanding, and solution-focused people. So if you aspire to grow in leadership, whether that's within a corporate environment, in your community, or at home,

Taking the time to check your heart is a powerful way to keep yourself aligned with a bigger perspective. We often talk about purpose and calling, but we can't fully live out our calling if our hearts are weighed down by unresolved issues. This alignment isn't about perfection. It's about surrender, about being humble to acknowledge that we need God ever ongoing guidance to truly thrive.

Let's get practical for a moment. A daily or weekly heart check can look like this. Pick a quiet spot, maybe your living room before everyone wakes up, a spare office at your workplace, or a favorite bench at your park. Then simply sit and grieve, inviting God into that space. Ask yourself, what's going on inside me right now? Where am I feeling tension or joy? What do I sense God nudging me to pay attention to? If you're a journalist, write down whatever comes to mind.

No filter, no judgment. Let it all flow out on that page. If you're praying silently, talk to God about each issue one by one. Then spend a few moments in silence, allowing his peace and direction to settle in. Don't underestimate how powerful this is and how it can be. Sometimes, clarity arrives in the hush of genuine stillness. You might also bring this practice into group settings, like a team meeting or a small group gathering.

start a session with a short moment of reflection. Ask an EAST member to do a quick heart check. It doesn't have to be long, maybe a one or two minutes session, but it fosters an environment of being authentic, vulnerable, and reminding everyone that productivity isn't just about ticking the boxes, but also ensuring our hearts are in the right place as we collaborate, plan, or serve. So this segment is all about

grasping that the inner work of examining your heart is not an afterthought or a luxury. It is a centerpiece of effective, compassionate leadership and robust mental health. After all, if we want to lead with vision, with love, and ultimately with the kind of resilience that can withstand life's storms, we must be willing to look inward. And for those of us who ground our lives in Christian faith,

There's a beautiful assurance that we're not doing this hard work alone. God promises to meet us in that secret place, to shape us and to walk with us through each obstacle. So as we continue with the rest of this episode, I encourage you to keep in mind the central question. Have I checked my heart today? Think of it as inviting the Holy Spirit to shine a light into the corners of your soul, revealing

what's already there and guiding you toward the best path forward. Embrace it as a chance to uncover hidden stressors, clarify your intentions for the day, and align, most importantly, your leadership actions with God's wisdom. Because when we lead and live from a heart that's regularly examined and surrendered to God, we experience deeper peace, stronger relationships, and yes, yes, even greater success in our endeavors.

By the time we finish today's show, my prayer for you is that you'll walk away feeling not only inspired to check your own heart, but also equipped with the practical means to do so. Gather your courage, the faith, and a healthy dose of honesty, and let's keep journaling together. One heart, one check of a heart at a time. We're gonna turn it over to one of our sponsors, and we will be right back.

Marcus Hart (11:26)

Now the flu season confronts us with so many uncertainties, embracing personal role can truly luster our holistic defenses. What I'm talking about, I'm talking about the Transformation Collective and it's inviting you, yes you my friend, to dive into a faith-based approach to wellness and success. With monthly memberships featuring holistic guides,

ebooks and webinars for just only $9.99 per month. Your journey toward resilience and personal transformation begins today. Don't miss out. Visit Transformation Collective to enhance your life now. The link is in the description.

Marcus Hart (12:10)

I'm glad we are back. And if you haven't already, make sure you take the time to like, comment, and subscribe to this channel. Hit that notification bell if you haven't done so already. I'd love to have you come back. Now, let's take some time in this segment to really zero in on a personal story. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. Okay. Yeah, so it's something that vividly illustrates how

pausing to check your heart can be transformative, not just in theory, but in real life. Day to day living. Picture this, a few years ago, I found myself in a season of life where everything felt like it was happening all at once. I had just launched a new initiative for my ministry. I had discovered a different way.

to do something, help with my business. And also I was trying to support my family through some health related challenges. On the surface, if you had looked at my schedule, you might have thought, wow, so many blessings and opportunities. But beneath the fat K, the productivity, I was barely holding on, barely holding it together. During that time, every day felt like a race.

with no finish line in sight. I would wake up with a knot in my stomach, already behind on emails and phone calls. My prayer life suddenly became a quick five minute ritual. It was squeezed in between more than coffee and an ever growing to-do list. I kept telling myself, just push a little harder and you will get through this Marcus. Keep your head down and keep going.

That stamina approach might work for a short sprint, but over time and over weeks and months, it really starts to wear down on you. It wore down on me emotionally, mentally, even spiritually. One particular Saturday stands out in my memory. It was meant to be a day off, a chance to decompress, catch my breath, and maybe spend some quality time with my kids and my girlfriend.

But by mid-morning, I was already rummaging through my planner, updating tasks, replying to text messages from coworkers, and trying to finalize details for an upcoming church event. Before I knew it, it was almost lunchtime, and I still hadn't taken any meaningful time for myself. I felt this heavy sense of dread creeping in, and I remember.

asking God in a moment of silent frustration, why do I feel so uneasy when I'm doing everything I'm supposed to do, Lord? In that moment, I sense a soft nudge in my spirit, an invitation to slow down and check my heart. And to be honest, I initially resisted. Part of me was thinking, I don't have the luxury of slowing down right now. Too much is at stake.

But that nudge didn't go away. Finally, feeling a bit humbled and a bit curious, I put my phone away, grabbed my Bible and a notebook and stepped out onto that back porch of mine. I told my fiance I needed just 30 minutes to collect my thoughts, promising I'll be right, back. She could see I was over one. And she was gracious, gracious enough to give me some space.

I sat there taking in simple blessings of the afternoon sun on my face and I just breathed, just breathed. I opened my Bible to a passage in the Psalms, Psalm 139 specifically. As I read, I kept coming across those words, search me God and know my heart, test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me.

and lead me in the way everlasting.

The scripture felt like a laser beam directly pointed at all tension and eternal chaos, swirling within me. So I made a decision. Instead of ignoring my anxiety, I will take the time to acknowledge it. I started writing down every day that was racing through my mind, the deadlines, the fear of letting people down, the worry that I might not be as capable as a leader as I had hoped to be.

And I tell you, let me tell you, a part of me felt almost silly doing this. Like, really? I'm writing down my fears. But the more I wrote, the more I started to see patterns emerge. One pattern was that I was letting my performance and my perception of others' expectations tell me what my worth was. And another thing was that I was pushing God to the

margins, fitting them in whenever I had left over time, instead of placing them at the center of my day. As I journaled, tears would well up within my eyes, not out of self-pity, but more from a sense of relief that I was finally being honest with myself and with God. It was like I was unburdening my heart, allowing those anxious thoughts

to surface so I could actually deal with it. So rather than push them deeper, that 30 minute pause that I took, it turned into an hour. And I'm grateful that it did. And that time, I prayed, I mean, really prayed for clarity and peace. I specifically asked the Lord to show me why I felt I couldn't trust Him completely and how to release the nagging feeling that everything depended on me.

Sometimes we pray for peace, expecting a miracle moment where suddenly all the stress disappears like a magic trick. But in my experience, God often provides a gradual unraveling of our knots, guiding us towards practical changes we can make in our daily routines. After that porch session, I decided to shift my approach.

I realized that a big chunk of my stress came from not setting clear boundaries or priorities. How familiar? So I started scheduling dedicated times of prayer and reflection, building them into my day the same way I would schedule a meeting or doctor's appointment. I made sure my phone was on silent or even powered off of that. During certain hours,

It was important that I did that so I wouldn't be yanked back into work mode whenever an email or notification popped up. I also learned to be transparent with the people that was working with me about my limits, delegating tasks instead of trying to muscle through everything alone. This was challenging simply because of the fact that there is a certain pride in believing you can do it all. Yet,

letting go of that pride, trusting God and trusting other people, it becomes a game changer. It really is. And one of the biggest revelations from this session, this season was that leadership is not about being the strongest pillar that never cracks. It's about modeling how to be humble, independent on God. I realized that by pretending I had it all together,

I was inadvertently teaching others around me that they too had to carry their burdens along. By contrast, when I started opening up, admitting I needed prayer, acknowledging moments of anxiety, it encouraged the people on my team to be real about their challenges as well. We were able to pray for one another and support one another in ways that was far more genuine and meaningful.

if we would had all kept it up inside of this fatcade of perfection. On the mental health front, simply labeling my anxieties, naming them, writing them down and surrendering them to God, it brought me a sense of relief I hadn't felt in a long time. I stopped feeling guilty for being stressed, recognizing that stress isn't

itself a sin or a lack of faith is an indicator. It's like a spiritual alarm that reigns and reigns and reigns, warning us to check that thing where our trust is placed. Are we trusting in our own abilities or are we placing our faith in God's limitless strength? That's why I share this story with you. If you're listening today and you're feeling like you're on a treadmill that won't stop,

I encourage you, enlist me, hear me out, carve out time for your own heart check. It might feel unproductive or even selfish to step away from the hustle for a moment. Yet, I can promise you that living as you will reap in mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual alignment, they are worth every minute. You will come back to

your taz or your relationships or your leadership role with a renewed energy, fresh vision and a deeper sense of peace. In many ways, that single Saturday on the porch was a turning point. Not because everything magically got easier right afterwards. Believe me, believe me when I say this, the deadline still existed and my duties didn't vanish. But my mindset has shifted.

I recalibrated, recalibrate, you know, let me say this a different way. I transformed my reliance on God rather than on my own limited strength. And that heart change was enough to sustain me through the busiest seasons that followed. So as we continue in today's episode, remember this people, if you're swimming in stress or feeling like you're carrying too many burdens,

You don't have the power to do this alone. God invites you to take a pause, open up your heart, and let him meet you in those hidden, raw spaces. Checking your heart isn't about finding out how broken or flawed you are. It's about discovering how close and compassionate God is. Even in the midst of your turmoil, he is always ready to lead you toward a place of wholeness and rest. And that, my friends, is a true

worth embracing.

Marcus Hart (23:34)

Are you still with me? Well, good. Well, make sure you like comment, share this with someone who could use it and hit that notification bill when you subscribe. If you haven't hit that subscribe button right now, hit it. So welcome to segment four, OK, where we're going to be focusing on the foundational role of faith, specifically trusting God for guidance, trusting God's healing and that ever important sense of direction in our lives.

At this point in our conversation, you have heard about the importance of regularly checking your heart and you've gotten a glimpse of how transformational that pause can be. Now, let's dive into how faith truly shapes our ability to navigate life storm in a healthier, more centered way. To kick things off, let's look at one of the most cited passages on trust, Proverbs 3, 5, and 6, which says,

and lean not on your own understanding and all your ways submit to him, and he will make your path straight. This isn't just a comforting verse to hang on your wall or share on social media. It's an invitation to anchor ourselves, to surrender our works, plans, and even our deepest hearts in exchange for divine guidance. Practically speaking, this means intentionally involving God in your decision-making process rather than

relies solely on personal logic or eternal validation. And when I say intentional, I'm talking about inviting God into the small daily decisions, not just the big picture stuff. Whether you're deciding on a career move, how to handle a tense situation with family, or even how to care for your mental health, trusting God is an ongoing active practice that reshapes

our perspective. I want to clarify something here. Trusting God does not mean we abandon common sense or professional resources. On the contrary, faith often works in tandem with wise counsel. For instance, if you're wrestling with anxiety or depression, leaning on God may look like combining prayer and scripture meditation with therapy or counseling. Sometimes we assume faith answers every question in the blink of an eye. But the reality is,

God often works through processes and people also. That might include a licensed counselor, a supportive community group, or a spiritual mentor who can guide you toward the right tools and resources. By bringing these avenues under the umbrella of prayer, we can find aligned holistic strategies for healing. Now, let's talk about the connection between faith and emotional health. When I talk about healing, I'm speaking not just about physical healing.

but about the the distortion of our minds and our hearts. Many of us carry emotional baggage, resentments, regrets, fears, all that weighs us down. Sometimes these burdens are so deeply rooted, we have forgotten that they're even there. But trusting God means we can hand over these hidden wounds. And what does handing them over look like? It might be softly voicing in prayer, Lord.

I'm struggling with a lot of anger or disappointment. Help me see it clearly and show me how to heal. Inviting God in like that is powerful because you know what? It places us in a posture of being humble and open. We're saying, God, I give you permission to go to work on my heart. Even in the areas I can't fully articulate. In leadership settings, this concept of trusting God is crucial.

whether you're leading in business search or at home, people look to you for direction. They draw on your energy. In example, if you're constantly anxious, unsure, or operating out of fear, the atmosphere trickles down to your team or your loved ones. However, when your leadership is rooted in faith, it radiates an unmistakable strength, resilience, and calm. Even when circumstances get rocky.

One way that this shows up is in your capacity to handle cries or crisis. A leader who trusts God doesn't hit the panic button at the first sign of trouble. Instead, they take a step back, pray, and gather the facts before responding. This approach fosters a more stable environment and instills confidence in the people you support. Let me share a short story from my own leadership journey to illustrate this.

A while back, I was overseeing a community event that had a lot of moving parts, volunteers, fundraising, venue logistics, you name it. About a week before the event, key donations started to fall through. Our primary venue was announced unexpectedly with renovations, and I had a key team member step away due to some personal issues. My initial reaction was despair. Everything was like breaking down at once. But through prayer,

I remember something that God sees the bigger picture. My own panic was rooted in my limited perspective. So I pray for wisdom, for a clear path, and ask God to help me see the solutions I might be missing out on. Rather than backing out, I engaged with new potential sponsors, found an alternative venue that ended up being cheaper, and restructured the whole volunteer role thing so everyone could handle smaller, more manageable tasks. In the end,

We pulled off the event successfully. And many told me afterwards how come I sing through all the drama. It wasn't that I was an angel at times, because I definitely was. But I allowed faith to guide my response to every obstacle that came about. That's the real difference. Fear might not vanish, but trust in God refrains how we respond to it. Another faith principle to highlight here is the idea of daily bread. When Jesus taught

his disciples to pray, he said, give us this day our daily bread. This is more than just asking for meals. It's a reminder that God provides for us in increments, day by day, moment by moment. We often stress ourselves out by trying to plan for the next year, the next five years, or even the next decade. But if we focus on living faithfully and responsibly in the present, we find that God's grace meets us

right where we are as they arise. This mindset is liberating because it breaks the chains of constant future tripping where we imagine all the what ifs and worst case scenarios. Instead, it keeps us anchored in the here and the now, trusting that as we do our part, take the necessary steps, seek wise counsel, show up to our commitments, God is coordinating the bigger picture in ways we cannot see.

All of this looks back to the concept of being humble, which is a key ingredient in trusting God. Admitting our limitations, rather emotional, mental, or even in leadership capacity, it can feel unnatural when we're trying to project confidence, but there's a beautiful paradox here. Real confidence grows when we recognize we don't have to answer all the questions. By humbling ourselves, accepting that God is bigger than our biggest challenges,

we actually free ourselves to tackle problems with greater creativity and resilience. It's like letting go of the heavy backpack we all have been hauling around, filled with perfectionism, control, and fear. When we set it down, we gain the energy and insight we need to move forward more effectively. One final thought, trusting God for guidance and healing is a continual process. It's not a one and done event.

where you pray once and never experienced out again. You might find yourself repeatedly facing the same anxieties or you might face new challenges that catch you right off the bat. But each time you can come back to the same principle, Lord, I trust you. It's a spiritual muscle that gets stronger the more we use it. Over time, you will notice that situations that used to paralyze you with fear will start to feel more manageable. You may start

You may still feel those butterflies in your stomach, but you will also have that underlying reassurance that I'm not alone in this. So as you consider your own heart check and the call to step into deeper leadership, I encourage you to weave faith through every fiber of your journey, people. Lean on scripture for reassurance. Invite the Holy Spirit into your daily decision making.

and reach out to faith-filled mentors, friends, or professionals who can walk alongside you. As you do, you will begin to see how trust in God is not just a personal comfort. It's a powerful catalyst for healing, growth, and the kind of leadership that leaves a lasting impact. I hope this segment inspires you to embrace trust as an active day-to-day exercise, one that fuels

both your mental well-being and your leadership capacity. With God's guidance, you will discover new strength, clarity, and the courage to face whatever obstacles come your way. Speaking of what's coming our way, we have another sponsor to highlight here. So sit back, relax. We'll be right, right back.

Marcus Hart (33:19)

Now, journey in beyond the surface of wellness, beyond strategic products, and actionable health plans lies in opportunity for deeper connection to ourselves and others. Our memberships and rapid rewards from Southwest remind us to make the most of every situation as we pursue adventures and much needed healthcare essentials. Visit Rapid Rewards to explore your potential for wellness rewards today. I don't know how sent you.

Marcus Hart (33:49)

Okay, we back. So I just want to let you know, these sponsors that get ran like in the middle or wherever they get placed. Make sure you support them. That's what I want to say. Make sure you support them. I usually have the links in the episode description and in the comment sessions, you know, so you'll see it in the comment section too. You know, so if you're listening to the podcast, you can find it, you know, it's right there. You can't miss it.

Now that we're here, let's dive into deeper practical practices that we can incorporate into our everyday life. These practices are designed not only to support your mental health, but it's also to align with your faith journey, emphasizing that our spiritual walk can serve as a powerful foundation for emotional resilience and clarity.

Let's start with journaling with reflection on scripture. Journaling isn't just about jotting down your thoughts. It's a spiritual exercise that can connect you deeply with God's word in your own inner life. Picture it as a dialogue between you and God where you pin down your reflections, insights, and prayers. Here's how you can make this practical practice integral to your routine. At the beginning of each week,

Choose a scripture that speaks to your current life situation or challenges. It could be a passage that gives you hope, challenges you, or resonates with something you're navigating through. Write this verse at the top of the new journal page. Then throughout the week, take time each day, even if it's just for a few minutes to return to this scripture and reflect on it. How is God speaking to you?

But through these words, what stands out to you today that perhaps didn't yesterday? After reflecting, record your thoughts, feelings, and any prayers that come to mind. Don't worry about writing those pristine entries. Focus on being authentic. Bible journaling, as some call it, allows you to witness your own journey of faith. Over time, you will start noticing progress, the evolution of your prayers.

and perhaps patterns in how God is working throughout them. Regularly updating your journal becomes a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness in your life, offering you encouragement when future challenges arise. The second practice to highlight is a mindful prayer for prayer walk. It's about blending physical movement with a spiritual reflection. It's a real wonderful way to care for both your body and your soul at the same time.

We all live such hectic lives that can be tough to find moments of peace. Yet a simple walk has the power to ground us, especially when we use it as an opportunity to pray and give some thanksgiving. Wherever you able to walk, whether it's a park, neighborhood or path, use those 10 minutes to slow down. Breathe deeply and savor the present moment. Begin with a prayer asking God to open your eyes to his blessings.

around you as you walk. Focus on your breathing. Inhale deeply with the realization of freshness every breath brings and exhale the tension or worry you might be holding on to. Look around for things in nature that reflect God's handiwork. It could be vibrant tunes of the changing seasons, the rustling leaves, the distant birdsong, or even the warmth of the sun touching your face.

Let these observations lead your heart into gratitude. Thank God for these little gifts that we got available to us. They so often go unnoticed, especially the creation. This practice calms us though. It calms the mind, reduce stress, and fosters a heart of gratitude, reminding us of God's ever-present provision and love. Moving on to the third two, faith-filled connections. For many of us, sharing our deepest concerns and struggles isn't always easy.

But our faith journey is enriched by community, by the trusted company of friends, mentors, or counselors who align with and respect your faith's respectives. Identifying at least one or two individuals in your life with whom you can be vulnerable can be transformative. This might be a pastor who understands your spiritual walk, a friend who knows your journey in an intimate way, or a counselor who integrates faith into their guidance.

Set aside some time to connect with these individuals on a regular basis, whether it's over coffee, through phone calls, or even via Zoom, especially in this day and age. Open up what's on your heart. It might be stress from work, challenges in your personal relationship, or a sense of self-doubt you can't shake. These gatherings become sacred spaces where you can pour out your heart, seek wisdom, and receive encouragement. Remember,

There's profound freedom in being vulnerable with someone we can trust. They can provide us perspective, reminding you of God's sovereignty that's sometimes difficult to see, even when we're deep in our struggles, especially when we're deep in our struggles. Together, these practices act as a series of small reset buttons in your day-to-day life, grounding you spiritually and emotionally.

And let's call this what it is, in spiritual self care, a practice that nourishes all parts of who we are, our emotions, our spirits, our minds, and even our bodies. To make these practices stick, consider creating a routine that integrates them seamlessly into your lifestyle. You might start or end your day with journaling, use lunchtime for your prayer walk, and set bi-weekly or monthly meetups.

with your faith-filled connections. An additional benefit of embedding these practices into your life is the development of a spiritual rhythm. Being consistent, that doesn't, you know, what that does, it just don't calm the chaos, but it also deepens your faith. As you engage into these routines, you might even find yourself becoming a source of strength and inspiration for others who might be navigating their own storms. There is something beautiful and sacred in choosing to care for yourself.

in ways that are deeply aligned with your faith. Ultimately, these tools and habits are about whispering into our own lives that sacred truth. We are beloved. We are washed over. And we are not alone. Every moment spent in these practices is a decoration of trust in God, a commitment to say even on tough days that we are placing our mental health

our struggles and our dreams in his capable hands. So as we continue this journey together, I encourage you to try out these tools, adapt them to suit your daily life, and see how they might transform both your mental health and your spiritual journey. As you do remember that these practices are not destinations, but ongoing encounters with God's grace and presence. May they be pathways that bring you peace,

guide you to clarity and root you ever deeper in faith. Stay tuned for the next step.

Marcus Hart (41:44)

We're definitely getting there, we almost did it.

You know, so it's been quite a journey so far. Let's take a moment to pivot our focus toward leadership. And the journey of leadership, rather, it's a professional setting, a community role, or even within the family. The practice of regularly checking your heart isn't just beneficial, it's transformative. It creates ripples that touch not only your immediate team or community, but

It can influence your families. It can influence how families, organizations, and even wider social circles function. This leadership style is deeply rooted in being authentic. But what does being authentic really mean in the context of leadership? It starts with self-awareness and being honest about our own inner landscape, our motives, our perspectives, and our biases.

Zulia leaders operate by a fake it till you make it philosophy, assuming that showing any form of vulnerability or even basic humanity could undermine their authority. But in truth, but in truth, the most powerful leaders are those who have been confronted and they have confronted what's happening inside themselves and are willing to open up about this.

This confrontation isn't about self-criticism, rather it's about self-reflection and growth. By allowing God's spirit to work within us, we become more attuned to our own impulses and inclinations. We start recognizing when pride might be guiding our actions instead of humility. And when fear might be disguised as overly cautious decision-making,

This awareness is critical because it allows us to invite God into those spaces to refine us, to help us act out of sincere values, rather than momentary emotions. Momentary. Well, in the moment, emotions. And do it so. And do it so, We become leaders who are more empathetic, open to creative solutions that God often lays before us.

and transparent with the people we guide. So let's dive into some key leadership insights that reflect this heart-centered approach to leading. First, embrace servant leadership. This model here is Jesus himself, who led by putting others first, who listened in a compassionate way, and who met needs before focusing on power or influence.

So urban leadership isn't about creating an environment where everyone feels valued or visible. It's about active listening, where you're not just waiting to respond, but truly hearing what is being said, recognizing the emotions and intentions behind words. This kind of listening builds trust and shows your team or family that you value them, not just for what they can do.

but for who they are. Practicing being humble is another pillar of servant leadership. Being humble doesn't mean thinking less of yourself. It means thinking of yourself less. By showing how to be humble, you create a climate of cooperation where ideas flourish and every voice can contribute. Imagine walking into a meeting where the leader, instead of dominating the conversation,

Great spaces for everyone to contribute, acknowledging even the quietest team. This encourages a culture where innovation happens in an organic way and mutual respect becomes the touchstone of group dynamics. Next, focusing on fostering collaborative growth. Here's a principle. The most successful leaders are those who foster an environment where others can shine.

Checking your pride at the door is crucial. It can be tempting to fall into a pattern of needing to have the final say or appear unfathomable. But the truth is the best ideas often surface when you admit you don't have all the answers. Show willingness to be a learner in your own leadership journey and be open to input from those around you. Consider this, a leader faced with challenging project

takes the time to conduct regular brainstorming sessions with their team. They don't just ask for input, they actively seek it out, even from those who might typically remain silent in meetings. By inviting collaboration, they not only empower their team members, but also cultivate a sense of ownership and shared purpose. People tend to invest more fully in projects when they feel

that they have had a hand in shaping it. Also, it's crucial that the practice of encouraging spiritual and emotional help within your environment is a talk that's always happening. Leaders often focus on the bottom line or the goal, the end goal that is, but the process of getting there matters just as much. It's essential to make it a norm within your team or community to validate emotional well-being.

and spiritual journeys. How do you incorporate this? That's a good question. Glad you asked. Start meetings with a moment of reflection or prayer. Recognize the efforts of your team in ways that acknowledge their personal and spiritual contributions, not just their productivity. For instance, in the business setting, you might have monthly check-ins that aren't just about performance, but about how team members feel they are growing personally and spiritually. Ask questions like,

How can we support one another better? Or what practices are helping you maintain balance? By creating a culture that values these discussions, you're not only boosting morale, you're reflecting Christ-like compassion in a powerful way that touches every aspect of your organization. There's a powerful question every leader should ask themselves in a regular way. How am I impacting the atmosphere of Noah's Ali?

When we leave from a heart that invites God's wisdom and grace, we start nurturing environments that are resilient and vibrant. Leaders who check their hearts on a regular basis bring being authentic to the table. They are transparent about their decisions, empathetic to the emotions of the group, and open-minded about potential solutions. In closing, remember this, leadership through

God's spirit is about stirring the lives and responsibilities entrusted to us with grace. It means choosing to model the principles of empathy, openness, and being humble daily while anchoring every decision in faith. When these practices become a habit, leaders find that their ability to inspire and transform goes beyond organizational success. It becomes a testament to a faith-driven life that guides.

motivates and leaves a lasting impact. As you consider your role as a leader, whether in the workplace, at home, or in the community, may these principles help you grow into the leader you are called to be, one who reflects God's love through service, collaboration, and compassionate guidance. Stay tuned for the next segment.

Marcus Hart (49:52)

We are a couple inches from the closing. We're getting there, we're getting there. Now, let's transition into a critical part of this journey. A call to put into practice what we've been exploring today. Isn't that exciting? The heart of the transformation lies in action. After this episode, I want to challenge you to carve out some intentional time for reflection, a moment for a sacred pause.

Rather, it's in a cozy corner of your home, a local park, or on a quiet, even walk. Give yourself the gift of space and time to engage deeply with where you are right now. Let's start with a heart inventory. It's not just a mental exercise. It's tangible. Grab a journal, a notebook, or even a blank sheet of paper and begin to pour out what's swirling around in your mind and heart. Think of this as inventory.

or inventory as an honest dialogue with yourself and God. Write down your worries that keep you up at night, the hopes you hold close, any ongoing frustrations in those nagging areas of doubt that may linger about your future. Include the breadth of life, the family dynamics, career aspirations, financial pressures, or perhaps new responsibilities that feel very heavy.

This exercise serves multiple purposes. Not only does it offer clarity by getting what's inside on the paper, but it also can reveal patterns, areas where you consistently feel blocked or empowered. For instance, you might notice that much of what you write down aligns with a particular theme. Say self-doubt in career pursuits or perhaps

anxiety about family relations. This recognition is the first step toward breaking cycles or building on positive patterns. Moving to the next step, a prayer of surrender. This is where you intentionally hand over these thoughts and concerns, most importantly to God. In prayer, sometimes being simple speaks volumes. You might say, Lord,

These are my burdens, my dreams, my fears. Help me release control and guidance. You might see your plan in the midst of my chaos and align my heart with what honors you, This is more than a one-time hand-over. It's about establishing a continual practice of trust and surrendering each time anxiety peaks or plans to shift in an unexpected way. This practice reaffirms your faith

in God's sovereignty and his intimate involvement in the details of your life. By naming your worries and submitting them to him, you reaffirm the truth that God is capable of handling what feels overwhelming to us. This act of surrender is incredibly powerful for mental health as well. It's a way to relinquish the weight we so often assume we might carry on our own.

preen our minds and spirits into the process. Now, let's talk about the action step. This is the next thing on board. This is where you begin to transform reflection into tangible change. Look back at your heart inventory list. What's one thing you can act upon this week? Not multiple, mm-mm. Not very aspirational, mm-mm, but one concrete step. It could be scheduling a counseling session.

which perhaps you've been putting off. Or maybe it's as straightforward as restructuring your budget to relieve some financial pressure or planning to sit down conversation with a family member you've been distant from due to misunderstandings. If work is a source of stress, consider evaluating your workload. What can you delegate effectively? Is there a task you could outsource?

allowing you to focus on what truly requires your personal attention. Delegation is not a sign of weakness, but a strategy of sustainability. Breaking down larger problems into smaller, actionable steps, layers, and progress. Step by deliberate step, and with a faith-based perspective, these steps start building into substantial change over time. Moreover, I encourage you to incorporate a feedback loop into these actions.

As you take your identified step, spend a few minutes reflecting on its impact. Has there been a shift in your piece of mind? Do you sense a new level of openness in your relationships? Be mindful of the size guys working in your process, in this process. This reflection can be captured in your journal, add into its evolving story that tracks the outworking of your faith journey.

Another dimension to consider in this action phase is accountability. Identify someone you trust, perhaps from your faith-filled connections. Who can walk alongside you as you commit to these new steps? Share them, oh, share with them, rather, what you plan to do and invite their support through prayer, encouragement, and even just a list in the mirror. Their role is not to hold you to a strict checklist, but to foster encouragement.

as you navigate your path, helping you stay true to your intentions, even when motivation might, you know, waver a bit. This process from heart inventory through prayer of surrender, the focus action is not about perfection or immediate change. the contrary, it's about progress formed through faithfulness to small, consistent

Remember, transformation is a process, a journey where you grow into the person you are called to be over time, not overnight. There will be days of challenge alongside days of victory. And through all of it, guess what? God is with you, caring for your heart and directing your path. So, as we wrap up this segment, let these practices be an ongoing part of your routine.

Use them to cultivate a life that doesn't just weather through the storms, but sails through them with purpose and poise, driven by your anchor faith in God's promises. My hope and prayer for you is that through this committed intentional practice, you experience profound changes in your mental health, your leadership capacities, and in all the relationships that define your journey. May you find renewal, clarity, and courage as you step forward.

anchored firm in the knowledge that with God all things indeed are possible.

Marcus Hart (57:25)

Friends, thank you for joining me today. Marcus Hart on the Transform You live show. That's Transform the Louie Hatter You live show for this in-depth conversation on Check Your Heart, Trusting God for a Happier Saturday and Beyond. I pray you gain some renewed motivation to take charge of your mental health and elevate your leadership skills.

all while leaning on the unshakable foundation of faith. Remember, you're not alone. God is with you, guiding each step, even when the path seems very unclear. If this episode helped you or sparked something in your heart, please share it with someone who might need a boost of encouragement. Also, be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help us spread transformative faith center and empowering messages.

to more people. Until next time, keep stepping forward, keep checking your heart, and embrace the all-encompassing love God has for you. Many blessings, peace, and lots of love.