To start, let’s look at the concept of time.
One of the most impactful seminars I ever took was on the topic of Priority Management. The first thing the instructor said was, there is no such thing as Time Management. There are only 24 hours in a day, we will never get anymore, we cannot manage time. But we can manage our priorities to make the best use of our time. That was a big shift for me. I learned that I need to make conscious choices on what I do with my time and how I prioritize my tasks, roles, and responsibilities.
Life is busy and can sometimes feel overwhelming. Women play a lot of roles in their life. Partner, parent (including fur babies), business owner, daughter, sister, household manager etc. Because women tend to be natural care givers, we often take on more than our fair share of the responsibility and tasks for others. We tend to put everyone and everything else ahead of ourselves. When someone in the house can’t find something, we always know where it is. When someone is sick or needs comforting, we are the go-to. And we love it. But it does take a toll if we do not take time for ourselves.
Sometimes we think of our roles as silos. But we are one person, and our roles are all intertwined. If we do not take care of ourselves, it impacts every area of our life, including our business. Do you define how you spend your time as productive or unproductive? If so, you may not be taking time for yourself because you define it as unproductive compared to other things you could be doing.
The reason we feel drained and overwhelmed can be the result of not taking time for yourself. And for some women, taking time for yourself seems like an impossible ask. Why is this? Often, we function on autopilot and get caught up on the “doing”. Or we make everyone and everything else a priority and not ourselves. We have also have lost touch with what’s important to us.
Reconnecting with what is important to you will help you prioritize to include time for yourself.
Chances are if you are feeling drained, it is because you are saying no to yourself and yes to a lot of other things.
I would like to do an exercise with you that helps you get in touch with what makes you happy because this will help you connect with what is important to you and help you prioritize your time. This will automatically identify what is important to you.
Grab a pen and paper and do a brain dump of all the things that make you happy. Don’t overthink, they can be small, they can be big. Write down everything you can think of. For example: I love Starbucks latte’s, I love writing in my gratitude journal, I love putting on a cute outfit, I love cuddling, I love decorating, I love yoga, I love singing.
Brain dump… 1 minute
Now, look at your list. Were there any surprises? Is there a theme? How do you feel when you look at your list? Do you feel excited? Do you feel reconnected with yourself? What is coming up for you? Does your brain automatically start with reasons why you can’t do these things? Or is it a hell ya, I need this for myself!
This exercise is designed to connect you with you. Not your roles and responsibilities, not what others want from you. But what you want and what brings you joy. You would be surprised that by doing one small thing for yourself, a lot can change. It will impact every area in your life for the better.
How does doing this exercise impact the success of your business? Let me ask you a couple of questions. Did you choose your business because it is something that brings you joy? When you created your Mission statement and Vision, were they based on what is important to you? What made you decide to take the leap into entrepreneurship? Perhaps you were in a career that wasn’t bringing you joy or connected to what was important to you. Were you tired of being unhappy? Did you want more joy?
Once started your business, your left brain took over the logical, practical steps of running your business. Perhaps the ebbs and flows and worries of getting the next client or paying the next bill have bumped your feelings of joy. It is crucial that you add time for yourself so that you can reconnect with what brings you joy and what is important to you.
The clarity you get from removing feelings of overwhelm, reconnecting with your joy and what is important, will help you say yes to the right things for your business and no to the things that do not align.
Some questions to ask yourself are…
Remember, our lives are not silo’s. We are not the roles we play. We are at the centre of everything and taking time for ourselves fills us up as a person. It impacts everything we do. Our business was a choice and is part of us. Imagine what is possible if you consistently recharge yourself.
Picture this… you feel less stressed. You are calmer, clearer, and less rushed. You take time for yourself, doing something that makes you happy or takes care of your body or is relaxing or is peaceful. This becomes a regular part of your life. As a result, you are happier, more connected with yourself and everything in your life is more joyful and flows. What if this was possible? What is standing in your way? Don’t you owe it to yourself to at least try? I’ll say it for you, YOU DO.
Dianne Reichenbach is a Life, Wellness & Business Coach and is the founder of Connect Coaching. She has held Executive Sales & Management positions with companies such as Indigo, Guess Watches & Movado. Part of her experience includes working with and for small business owners. She is passionate about partnering with women to discover joy and purpose in all aspects of their life. Small steps lead to Big changes.
In the world of self-improvement, product development, and course or program creation, the terms "refinement," "enhancement," and "improvement" are often used interchangeably. While they all suggest making something better, they have distinct differences in meaning and application. This blog post aims to clarify these differences and shed light on when and how to use each of these terms effectively.
Refinement
Refinement is the process of making small, subtle changes or adjustments to improve the quality or efficiency of something without fundamentally altering its core characteristics. It is about fine-tuning, polishing, or eliminating imperfections to achieve a higher level of excellence.
In product development, refinement may involve fixing minor bugs, improving the user interface, or enhancing the user experience. In personal growth, it could mean developing better communication skills, refining one's wardrobe, or perfecting a specific skill or talent.
Examples of refinement for course creators are:
Enhancement
Enhancement, on the other hand, involves making something better by adding or incorporating new elements, features, or qualities. This process often results in a noticeable, significant improvement that takes the original to a higher level. Enhancements bring about an enriched or augmented version of the original.
In product development, enhancements could include adding new features to a software application, introducing a better camera in a smartphone, or improving the speed of a car. In personal growth, enhancing oneself might involve acquiring new knowledge, learning new languages, or gaining new experiences to enrich one's life.
In course creation or program development, enhancements can take the form of:
Improvement
Improvement is the most comprehensive of the three terms. It encompasses any changes made to enhance the overall state or condition of something, whether through refinement, enhancement, or both. Improvement implies the intention to reach a better, more effective, or superior state compared to the initial condition.
In the context of product development, improving a product might involve refining existing components and enhancing new features to make it more user-friendly and efficient. In personal growth, improving oneself could mean refining communication skills and enhancing personal qualities while striving for overall self-betterment.
For course creators, improvement starts with:
Whether you are creating a new product, course, or online program, or embarking on a new personal development journey, understanding the differences between refinement, enhancement, and improvement is crucial in getting the most out of your endeavors. Knowing when to use these terms correctly can help you convey your intentions more precisely and achieve your goals with greater clarity.
Tracy Sherriff is a seasoned educator, non-profit manager, and Certified Director of Operations with advanced training in adult education. Her company Accelerated Learning, specializes in aiding coaches, consultants, and creators in scaling their businesses through high-value, impactful curriculum-based courses and online programs. Tracy also hosts the Scale Your Course podcast and is the visionary behind Course Design School and the Course Impact Accelerator, an opportunity for entrepreneurs, educators, and corporate training leaders to get professional insight into how to improve their training, course or online program.
Connect with Tracy on Instagram here
I think so many of us have it all wrong when it comes to happiness!
We see happiness as a destination that we never quite seem to reach. It looks like others around us are “there”, but we can’t seem to find the key to unlock the door of happiness.
In a world that often emphasizes achievements, possessions, and the pursuit of external success, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that happiness is something you'll reach once you've ticked all the right boxes. But here's the secret I want to share with you today: happiness is a journey, not a destination. Happiness is a direction we can head in. We can all choose to be “happier”.
Many of us have been raised with the idea that happiness is like a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. "Once I get that dream job," we think, "or when I have a certain amount of money, then I'll be happy." It's as if happiness is a place we'll arrive at, and we'll live there forever. But in reality, that's not how it works.
You might not like what I’m about to say, but ... No one and no circumstance can give you true happiness!
It’s up to you and only you to be intentional about choosing happiness everyday. While outside life circumstances may influence your mood, the ultimate decision to embrace happiness rests with you. It's about taking ownership of your well-being, choosing to respond positively to life's challenges, and making choices that align with your joy and fulfillment.
Imagine happiness as a scenic journey. There are mountains to climb, valleys to cross, and even some occasional roadblocks. But it's in the process of traveling that we experience happiness. It's in those little moments when we appreciate a beautiful sunset, share laughter with a loved one, or even find joy in a small accomplishment.
Happiness is not just about the destination; it's about the direction of the journey. It's about embracing the here and now, it’s about becoming intentional in bringing more happiness into our lives. It's about making the most of each step you take on your life's path.
Here are 3 ways you can start today to move in the direction of being happier:
1. Choose Happiness: Make a list of all the things that make you happy and bring you joy. Review your list every morning and choose a few things from the list that you are going to intentionally make a part of your day.
2. Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on what you're grateful for. This simple act can help shift your focus toward happiness.
3. Shift Your Mindset: As a mindset coach, I can't stress enough the importance of reprogramming limiting beliefs and choosing thoughts that serve you well. A positive mindset can be your greatest ally in the journey to happiness.
When you understand that you have the power to shape your happiness, you take the reins of your life, and that's where you take back your power! So, as you embark on your journey, remember that happiness is your birthright, and it's a choice you can make every day.
Choose happier!
Kelly-Anne Appleton is a Midlife Mindset & Manifestation Coach who helps women 40+ stop settling and create a life they love! Through 1:1 and group coaching Kelly-Anne helps women reprogram the beliefs that are keeping them stuck, rewrite their self image and reclaim the power to create their desires. She shares meaningful insights and tips to help you live a life you love on Instagram and Facebook.
If you have pooh-poohed the idea of writing a book, yet a terrific idea niggles at the corners of your thoughts on Sunday mornings, well, welcome to the world of storytelling defined! Whether you're curious about the process or an aspiring writer, an avid reader, or a student trying to analyze a narrative, understanding the components of a story and how they interact is crucial. Allow me to give you my take on the structure of narratives, exploring character motivations, plot, setting, theme, and conflict. Ready?
1. CHARACTER MOTIVATIONS: The Driving Force
What drives a character to act in a certain way? Is it fear, love, greed, or something else? Motivations can be categorized into three broad types: basic, noble, and evil. Basic motivations include survival, fear of failure, peer pressure, curiosity, guilt, desire, and instability. Noble motivations can be love, loyalty, honour, obedience, vengeance, a fight against inequality, or the search for fulfilment. On the other hand, evil motivations consist of hatred, dishonour, pride, greed, revenge, lust, and jealousy.
2. PLOT: The Heart of the Story
In a nutshell, a plot is what happens in a story. It consists of the following:
3. SETTING: The Backdrop of the Narrative
The setting is where and when a story takes place. More often than not, a story has more than one setting, which contributes to the narrative's mood, atmosphere, and overall aesthetic.
4. THEME: The Underlying Message
The theme is the message or meaning of a story. It's what's in it for the reader—the lesson they might glean from the narrative, the deeper insights they might discover about life or human nature.
5. CHARACTERS: The Soul of the Story
Characters bring life to the story. They can be:
6. POINT OF VIEW: Through Whose Eyes?
The point of view determines who's telling the story. It could be
7. CONFLICT: The Engine of the Plot
Conflict is a problem a character has to solve. It drives the plot forward and can take various forms:
This is my simple breakdown of the different elements that make up a story. For more insights into the world of storytelling, how to write marketing copy, or how to develop a consistent habit of writing, contact me for a free 15-minute inspiration boost on Zoom.
Rusti L Lehay, a global editor and book and writing coach, created over 40 articles guiding writers to authordom. Witnessing writers find and speak in their own voice to serve the real boss, the audience, not the editor, is one of Rusti’s greatest joys. She offers bi-monthly online writing STAY-Treats and monthly lounges and teaches weekly creative writing classes. Her primary mission is to inspire, provide value and make writing fun and easy.
Links: https://msha.ke/rustilehay.info
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In our ever-evolving world, staying ahead requires an unwavering commitment to continuous learning. Yet, merely scratching the surface of new subjects won't yield the profound transformations you seek. To truly unlock your potential and attain mastery, it's imperative to adopt a resolute mindset dedicated to immersive learning. Within this blog post, we will delve into actionable strategies that empower you to embrace the path of mastery and amplify your learning voyage.
Establishing Your Learning Objectives: To wholeheartedly commit to learning, commence by crystallizing your aims. What specific skills or knowledge are you striving to acquire? Set forth precise and quantifiable objectives that harmonize with your passions and ambitions. By defining your learning goals, you'll blueprint a path that steers you through the journey and keeps you driven and resolute.
Devote Yourself to Steadfastness: Consistency stands as the linchpin for deepening comprehension and enduring progress. Allocate dedicated intervals for learning each day or week and uphold that pledge. Steadfastness generates momentum, allowing your intellect to assimilate new information more efficiently. Treat your learning expedition as a top priority and safeguard your exclusive learning moments against diversions.
Welcome Deliberate Mastery: Deliberate mastery encompasses actively engaging with the material, pushing past your comfort boundaries, and embracing feedback. Fragment intricate concepts into bite-sized, manageable portions and methodically practice them. Challenge yourself to tackle issues, finalize projects, or engage in dialogues tied to your chosen domain. Solicit input from mentors, instructors, or colleagues to enhance your competencies and deepen your insights.
Foster Inquisitiveness and a Cultivated Mindset for Growth: To wholeheartedly embark on a learning quest, nurture your inquisitiveness and uphold a growth-oriented mentality. Embrace the belief that intelligence and skills develop through diligence and practice. Welcome setbacks and disappointments as opportunities for advancement, not as excuses to surrender. Inquisitiveness will impel you to investigate novel ideas, pose queries, and actively pursue diverse viewpoints, fostering an enriching and dynamic learning odyssey.
Submerge Yourself in the Learning Ambiance: Forge an environment that nurtures your learning expedition. Encompass yourself with educational resources such as literature, podcasts, online courses, or workshops. Engage with communities, forums, or study circles where you can connect with kindred spirits and share knowledge. Immerse yourself in the subject matter by attending conventions, webinars, or seminars affiliated with your field of interest.
Embrace Diverse Learning Modalities: Each individual has their unique learning approach, so explore a spectrum of learning modalities to ascertain what resonates best with you. Marry conventional approaches like reading with hands-on experimentation, visual aids, auditory materials, or interactive online platforms. Embrace a versatile range of resources to keep your learning experience captivating and comprehensive.
Reflect and Refine: Regularly introspect on your learning expedition to evaluate progress, pinpoint strengths and weaknesses, and adapt your methodology accordingly. Celebrate even the smallest achievements and milestones to sustain your motivation. If confronted with roadblocks or stagnation, do not hesitate to reevaluate your strategies, seek alternative resources, or solicit counsel from mentors or experts in your field.
Wholeheartedly dedicating oneself to learning is a transformative approach that unveils doors to personal development and achievement. By setting precise goals, embracing unwavering persistence and deliberate mastery, nurturing curiosity and a growth mindset, immersing yourself in a supportive learning atmosphere, exploring diverse learning methods, and reflecting on your journey, you'll embark on a gratifying voyage of perpetual learning and attain mastery in your chosen sphere. Therefore, take that initial stride, pledge to your learning journey, and embrace the multitude of possibilities that await you!
Tracy Sherriff is a seasoned educator, non-profit manager, and Certified Director of Operations with advanced training in adult education. Her company Accelerated Learning, specializes in aiding coaches, consultants, and creators in scaling their businesses through high-value, impactful curriculum-based courses and online programs. Tracy also hosts the Scale Your Course podcast and is the visionary behind Course Design School.
In the tapestry of femininity, there exist four archetypes that reflect the diverse phases of a woman's life. These archetypes—Maiden, Mother, Queen, and Crone—guide us through different stages of our lives, each offering its own unique wisdom and lessons.
Many of us, in our 40’s-60’s, find ourselves in what society calls a Midlife Crisis! Chaos and a feeling of unbearableness may be our constant companions. Understanding that you may simply be embodying the Queen archetype at this stage of your life may go a long way in a deeper understanding of yourself. When I learned this I breathed a sigh of relief. I wasn’t going crazy after all!
Let’s dive in to understand these archetypes a little more.
The Maiden archetype, which we often see as a young girl into her early 20’s, embodies autonomy and a magnetic charm. She belongs solely to herself, free from the need to answer to anyone. With an open heart and positivity, the Maiden attracts new opportunities into her life. She is willing to take leaps of faith, sitting in the receiving mode, accepting all that life offers.
The Mother archetype is the grand nurturer. She does not have to have her own biological children to be in that mothering phase of her life. She brings a mothering energy to the world, offering care and compassion to all people in her life. She gives life to children, new ideas, projects and relationships. The Mother embodies self-sacrifice, focusing on meaningful purpose in her family and community. She sits in offering, giving of herself to others and the world.
This time of our lives when we are embodying the Mother archetype can feel like we have so many commitments to others that we feel we lose ourselves. For some they move from this archetype after their children leave the nest, but many remain here for the rest of their lives.
The Queen archetype is highly sensitive and intuitive, feeling the need for solitude to explore her inner world. She may experience irritability and question the constructs of her life and beliefs. She feels unhappy and unfulfilled with some areas of her life and longs for something more. In this phase she may begin to question everything: her relationships, her career, her beliefs, her purpose. The Queen's focus shifts to her spiritual path and soul's journey, tearing down societal myths. She begins to seek out her own inner power and challenges the status quo. She longs for a return to her authentic self, sitting in the space of awakening. It’s not a crisis but rather an awakening!
The Crone archetype is an observer, open to messages from her soul. She embodies deep wisdom and no longer feels the need to achieve, granting her a sense of freedom. Her intuition and introspection lead her to a profound awareness of her own being-ness. The Crone sits in the realm of knowingness.
These four feminine archetypes—Maiden, Mother, Queen, and Crone—guide us through the various stages of womanhood, offering insights and strengths unique to each phase. Embracing the gifts and challenges of where you find yourself on the journey, will lead you to a deeper understanding of yourself.
The traditional approach to editing is for the editors to take the whole manuscript off by themselves, mark it all up, and make changes without any back-and-forth conversation. As I strive to connect with the author’s voice empathically, I’m careful to honour the author’s intent, narrative style, and flow.
Editing without the author can sometimes bypass or interfere with the author's voice. Authors retain their artistic copyright with the collaborative immersion approach I have been using since 2014. This way, any in-depth suggestions for changes are discussed.
If I suggest a change that the author does not feel is a fit, we then engage in a conversation factoring in the author’s strategic objectives. Also, we explore what they want to say to the reader. Another tool to reach a consensus is to ask what they want the reader to hear.
Together, we keep in mind that the reader is the real boss, not the
editor or the writer.
How do I empower authors to structure their books effectively, and how do they organize their ideas in both fiction and non-fiction manuscripts?
Trusting the first draft is always my first direction. If it is meant to come out and you create the space to let it flow, it will arrive, often surprising the writer. Follow their hearts and be instinctive. If the author has dived into their passion, they will most likely find and submerge themselves in that mysterious state called "flow".
Listen to anything online with Stephen Kottler speaking to learn more about the flow effect. With fiction, there is more leeway regarding how to structure your book.
How to Structure Your Book
You can have the plot flow back and forth sequentially, give chapters to different characters that come together in the end, or start from the future and work your way around to link up the beginning.
As long as you drop enough sticky bits at each chapter or section end to hook the readers’ attention and fill in the gaps you purposely leave to maintain curiosity, you can do just about anything. It is good to complete one mini-mystery in the plot as you progress and plant fresh ones.
Regarding memoirs, there are as many different ways to structure them as the people who write their stories. Quite often, people will structure their books in a linear style. You can utilize all the tools and structures listed above for fiction authors.
A few ideas are to leapfrog through the years by a common number. Or pick a theme like family weddings or the dresses you wore, friends you had through the years, what Sunday dinners were like, or the things you’ve learned on a specific topic or at regular intervals.
Using the “sticky bits” at the end of sections is also essential to keep your audience reading. It can be as simple as, “In the next chapter, readers will learn the most valuable step of the process…” Many of the fiction and poetic tools can be applied to non-fiction.
Metaphoric writing is a superb teaching tool that enhances reader retention of the information and makes what might be dry material engaging, thought-provoking, and captivating. For an example of non-fiction page-turners, look at authors Gabor Maté or Dean Copeland.
The best editors help writers balance preserving their unique voice while addressing areas that need improvement, such as plot development or factual accuracy.
Working as a collaborative, empathic editor and a ghostwriter, I start with everything that works well, then ask questions to inspire the author to view it from the reader’s perspective. Any feedback I offer is always delivered as suggestions, not as a must-do, which can set us both up for a power struggle where no one wins, least of all the reader.
After calling attention to everything that works well, addressing areas that may improve with slight changes seems more natural. Authors come to editors because, deep down, we all know a piece of writing can constantly be revised and that all writers need a keen editorial eye.
Working empathically with only one author in their specific genre at a time allows me to engage with their use of language, the tone they convey, and the way they create descriptions or explanations. These combined make an author’s voice unique; once I am in the flow of these aspects of personal authorial voice, I can better preserve them while suggesting changes to sections of text that can benefit from improvement.
Any suggestions for improvement are solely to strengthen the work. Sometimes, this requires structural editing, moving text around, and plot development for congruency and consistency. Again, any ideas for revision are discussed with the author from a foundation of tact and sensitivity.
It takes an enormous effort to write a complete book, and this accomplishment, while not for the faint-hearted, must always be kept front and centre in an editor’s mind. We didn’t sweat over it, lose sleep, or neglect other aspects of life to put each of those words down to create the book.
An editor’s role is to walk that fine line, preserving a writer's unique voice and addressing areas that can benefit from revision. The editor/author collaboration aims to make a more robust and polished final product.
Common mistakes or challenges writers face when trying to polish their manuscripts and some strategies to overcome these hurdles when refining their work.
Heather Robertson, a writer I admire, said writers are only as good as their editors and vice versa. We all need editors, and before an author hires one, I suggest finding friendly readers in your friend and family circle or training a friendly reader. I elucidate that latter point in my talk, “The Four Things Every Writer Needs.”
Even the thought of showing your manuscript to someone will flip a switch in your brain, and you will likely be invigorated to set aside time to revise and edit your work. This crucial stage is often missed when writers are in a rush or set unrealistic deadlines for themselves. While reviewing your work can be challenging, even for those with writing experience, setting your manuscript aside for five days and celebrating your accomplishments is a wise thing to do before digging in to find those grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors that will jump out at you after a break.
Another risk is loving your little darlings and becoming too attached to them. Paraphrasing Natalie Goldberg, author of several fantastic books on writing, who says, “We must be willing to kill our darlings.”
Many authors swear by the tool of reading their work aloud. You will quickly become aware of awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, and word favouritism (every author has their overused words or turns of phrases). These issues become readily apparent when reading aloud. Even more so if you have a friend read your work aloud. They can offer valuable feedback from an outsider's point of view.
One final tip: Though I have many more that arise in face-to-face meetings unique to each author, it is crucial to be amenable to make changes and try revisions based on the feedback you receive.
Sometimes, while feedback may feel like criticism, do your best to remember people who care enough to risk offering feedback are working with you to enhance your ability to create the best possible manuscript. Almost all revisions you can make at this point to raise the quality of your writing will only increase your potential success on your publishing journey. You will know you need a break, an editor, or when you are possibly done, when your energy wanes. If you still don’t feel a charge after a break, it is ready for the next phase.
Some key considerations to keep in mind to ensure your work stands out in a competitive distribution world when you are in the publishing
marketing phase.
To reach the marketing stage, the real work begins. I have curated successful self-published authors to speak at conferences when I was on organizing committees, and they are geniuses at marketing. This stage takes some consistent effort and thinking outside of the box.
I adore arriving at this stage with my authors and am often told I should teach courses on this aspect. When you jump from the editing to the publishing phase, hang on for the ride.
The market is competitive, and with some concerted effort, you can keep your book front and centre with contests, periodic sales, and delivering short excerpts on SubStack and similar programs. This is the time to be creatively strategic to reap an ROI.
Ask local papers if they have a lit section to do a review, have SM influencers on
GoodReads review it on their accounts, and consider investing in a book trailer. Book trailers communicate the feel of the book and can create a buzz of excitement and interest.
Another small but not insignificant investment you can make is NetGalley, which will preview your book to their list of signed pre-readers who can help create a buzz before you launch your book.
Use social media as much as possible, enlist your friends and readers to make posts, and keep your target audience in mind to leverage the platforms they hang out on to influence their purchasing decisions.
Do all of this or even ninety percent, and you can gain a competitive edge in the market and see that readers enjoy your book.
Rusti L Lehay, a global editor and book and writing coach, created over 40 articles guiding writers to authordom. Witnessing writers find and speak in their unique voice to serve the real boss, the audience, not the editor, is one of Rusti’s greatest joys. She offers bi-monthly online writing STAY-Treats and monthly lounges and teaches weekly creative writing classes. Her primary mission is to inspire, provide value, and make writing fun and easy.
When I was young, the importance of deep friendships with women eluded me. It wasn't until my forties, following a heart-wrenching divorce and its aftermath, that I realized the need for meaningful connections in my life. I began to observe how women connect with one another, discovering a level of connection beyond anything I'd experienced before. These connections, my soul sisters, became an essential part of my life.
Soul sisters are those rare bonds that instantly resonate, a sense of belonging that forms an instant connection. Sometimes, the connection grows gradually, eventually revealing a profound understanding of each other's hearts and souls. No matter how they develop, the magic of a soul sister connection is undeniable.
Not every deep connection becomes a soul sister relationship; some remain acquaintances or friends. The soul sister bond goes deeper, creating an understanding that transcends surface interactions. Here's a glimpse into the power of these relationships, drawn from insights shared by women of all ages.
1. Deep Connection and Understanding
Soul sisters share a unique understanding that transcends words. They can sense when something is wrong without the need for explanations. An unspoken language and intimacy exist, allowing them to connect on a profound level. These connections are often made stronger by timely messages of encouragement and support.
2. Support and Encouragement
Soul sisters are your biggest cheerleaders, even when you doubt yourself. They offer unwavering support, helping you navigate life's challenges. They become your ride-or-die companions, providing assistance when needed most.
3. Honesty and Vulnerability
Soul-sister relationships encourage raw honesty and vulnerability. There's a transparency and acceptance that allows you to share your true self without fear of judgment. This openness creates a unique level of intimacy that's hard to find elsewhere.
4. Mutual Growth
As your connection with your soul sisters deepens, their insights often echo your own intuition. They guide you like a true north when life becomes disorienting. They're there to celebrate your joys and achievements, appreciating your journey more deeply because they've walked alongside you through tough times.
5. Unconditional Love and Acceptance
Soul sisters don't focus on flaws; instead, they emphasize your strengths and remind you of your worth. This unconditional love creates balance and fuels positive growth.
6. Shared Values and Beliefs
Soul sisters share profound truths beyond surface-level connections. They offer an intimacy that goes beyond ordinary friendships, walking alongside you in your personal growth journey.
7. Empowerment to Pursue Goals
Soul sisters believe in you, sometimes more than you believe in yourself. They offer motivation and strength during challenges, making difficult tasks seem less daunting through collaborative support.
8. The Enduring Impact
A bond with a soul sister becomes an integral part of your life, filled with shared memories and reminders of your strength. These relationships offer a space for your hearts and spirits to unite, nurturing trust and growth.
In the presence of soul sisters, vulnerability becomes strength, unity empowers, and individual journeys meld into a shared experience of love and support. If you're fortunate to have soul sisters in your life, consider journaling about your experiences and expressing your gratitude for their presence. These connections are treasures that enrich our lives, reminding us of the beautiful potential that blossoms when hearts connect in genuine understanding and empathy.
Judith Richey is A Force For Transformation. As a spiritual and transformational healer, she helps women entrepreneurs use unconventional and non-traditional methods to create the life of their dreams.
Judith is happy to be a Happy Healthy Woman Trailblazer on the Global Level.
In today's world where women are redefining boundaries and shattering glass ceilings, the value of confidence cannot be overstated. But what is often missed in this narrative is the expansive freedom that confidence can bring into our lives. As women invested in health and wholeness, it's essential to understand how cultivating confidence can lead to holistic well-being.
Here's a glimpse into the freedoms unlocked by confidence:
1. Freedom of Expression
Confidence empowers women to voice their unique opinions, beliefs, and feelings. It paves the way for genuine communication, free from the constraints of societal judgments.
2. Freedom to Pursue Dreams
Every woman has dreams and aspirations. With confidence, the horizon expands, making it possible to chase those dreams, take calculated risks, and step into uncharted territories.
3. Freedom from Fear
Confidence serves as a shield against the fears of failure, rejection, or criticism. It emboldens women to act decisively and reclaim their narrative.
4. Freedom of Authenticity
There's a raw beauty in being genuine. Confidence lets women shed facades, encouraging them to embrace and celebrate their true selves.
5. Freedom from Regret
Decisions made with confidence, even those leading to mistakes, eliminate the burden of perpetual "what ifs".
6. Freedom in Relationships
Confidence builds the foundation for healthier relationships, enabling women to set boundaries, articulate needs, and foster mutual respect.
7. Freedom from Limiting Beliefs
Every woman carries the power to challenge internal barriers and self-imposed limitations. Confidence is the key that unlocks this potential.
8. Freedom to Learn and Grow
Instead of viewing setbacks as defeats, confidence transforms them into invaluable learning experiences, promoting growth and resilience.
9. Freedom of Self-Love
At the heart of confidence lies self-acceptance. It's about liberating oneself from relentless self-criticism and embracing self-love.
10. Freedom from Dependency
Confidence breeds self-reliance, reducing the constant need for external approval or validation.
11. Freedom to Innovate
Creativity flourishes in the face of confidence. It encourages women to challenge the norm, think unconventionally, and birth new ideas.
12. Freedom to Lead
Confident women often rise as torchbearers, inspiring and guiding others with their vision and passion.
The journey of confidence is deeply personal. While these freedoms might resonate with many, each woman's experience with confidence is uniquely her own. As we embrace health and wholeness, let us also open our arms to the incredible freedoms that confidence can bring into our lives, recognizing it as an integral component of our holistic well-being.
Karen Vaile is a Confidence & Life Coach and Founder of Karen’s Coaching Korner. She helps businesswomen create the confidence they need to take the bold action necessary to achieve all their personal and professional goals.
Karen's mission is centred on transforming uncertainty, self-doubt and apprehension into assertiveness and decisive ambition. Through her 1:1 coaching program “Create Your Confidence” she tailors her approach to each client's unique needs helping each one to reach her fullest potential, attain her goals, embrace boldness and embody confidence and grace in every aspect of life. Karen can be reached via DM.
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Karen is happy to be a Happy Healthy Women Toronto, ON Trailblazer.
Running a successful business is a bit like solving a puzzle, and understanding business law is a big piece of that puzzle. However, there are some myths floating around that can lead entrepreneurs down the wrong path. Let's unravel the truth behind five common business law misconceptions under
Canadian law.
MYTH 1: Once a Business Name is Registered, it's Protected Nationwide
Many entrepreneurs believe that once they've registered their business name, no one else in Canada can use it. This is not entirely true. Registering a business name at the provincial level, for instance, in Ontario, only protects the name in that province. To protect a business name nationwide, one needs to opt for federal incorporation or, for maximum protection, register a trademark.
Picture this--Sophia registers her business name "S. Accounting Success Strategies" in Ontario. She later discovers another business with the same name in Alberta. Sophia learns that provincial registration only protects her business name in Ontario. For nationwide protection, she needs to pursue federal incorporation or a trademark.
MYTH 2: Incorporation is the Best Structure for All Businesses
Incorporation can be a great choice with benefits like limited liability and tax perks. But it's not a universal solution for every business. Sometimes, being a sole proprietor or forming a partnership can be more advantageous, especially for small businesses. It's all about your business's specific needs and long-term plans.
Sophia incorporated her business from the get-go. After a year, she notes that her business expenses exceeded your business income by $20,000 during that tax year. Sophia learned that if she had structured her business as a sole proprietorship or partnership, she could have deducted the business loss from her personal income from other sources, potentially saving a significant amount in taxes.
MYTH 3: Incorporation Shields Personal Assets Unconditionally
Incorporation can indeed act as a shield for your personal assets against business debts or liabilities. But remember, this shield isn't invincible. In situations where personal guarantees for business loans are involved or in cases of director's liability, your personal assets might still be vulnerable.
Sophia, for instance, safeguards her $500,000 house by incorporating. Yet, a business loan requires her signature, holding her personally accountable. Defaulting on the loan endangers her home. Why? Because signing a personal guarantee takes personal responsibility for a corporate debt. Default, and creditors chase personal assets.
MYTH 4: Verbal Contracts Aren’t Legally Binding
Contrary to popular belief, in Canada, a handshake or a verbal agreement can be legally binding, provided it has the basic elements of a contract: offer, acceptance, consideration, and the intention to create legal relations. But remember, proving them can be as tricky as nailing jelly to a wall, so written contracts are always recommended.
Imagine Sophia agrees verbally with a venue to host a seminar for $2,000. But the venue double-books and cancels her event. She loses potential earnings of $10,000 from ticket sales. Sophia learns the hard way that while verbal contracts can hold up legally, proving them can be a real challenge.
MYTH 5: Businesses Can't Be Sued Once They've Ceased Operations
It's a common misconception that businesses become bulletproof against lawsuits once they've closed their doors. That's not the case. Under Canadian law, businesses and their directors can still be held liable for issues that cropped up while the business was running. Carefully wrapping up the business, fulfilling obligations, and addressing any potential legal issues before closing can help lessen the risk of post-closure liability.
Sophia decides to close her business and liquidate all assets. She uses the proceeds to pay off creditors and herself. But one creditor sues, claiming Sophia still owes money. Sophia learns that even though her business is no longer operational, she can still be held liable for debts incurred while it was running.
These are just a few of the many myths clouding the understanding of business law in Canada. As an entrepreneur, knowing your legal rights and obligations is as important as knowing your customers. And when in doubt, it's always a good idea to chat with a legal professional to ensure you're making informed decisions for your business.
Maryam is the Founder and Principal Lawyer of Venture House Legal. She understands that legal services are like oxygen for any business. That is why she established Venture House Legal, which offers a range of affordable legal solutions including flat fee services, bundled services, and a fractional lawyer retainer program known as Start to 7. With these services, startups, small businesses and entrepreneurs can receive high-quality legal support without having to sacrifice affordability or quality.
For more information, follow her on Instagram @maryamthebizlawyer_ or schedule a free discovery call on https://www.venturehouselegal.ca/
The journey towards achieving our dreams and aspirations begins not in an Instagram or TikTok reel, but within the quiet chambers of our own hearts. The expression of our desires and ambitions is nurtured in the garden of our hearts. The quality of our relationship with ourselves is where we plant, cultivate and grow our desires and ambitions.
Releasing The Patterns Of Conditioning
Our relationship with ourselves is partially shaped by societal conditioning, familial influences, and the patterns we unwittingly allow to govern our thoughts and actions.
As we grow, explore, and take in teachings, we're bombarded with the beliefs, values, and norms of the society around us. We absorb these messages like sponges, internalizing judgments, expectations, and standards that may not truly align with our authentic selves. Family, too, imprints their mark on us, sometimes leaving imprints of their own limitations and self-judgment that cast shadows over our potential.
It's crucial to recognize that these influences are not the final verdict on our potential. As we master the ability to step back and evaluate what serves our genuine dreams and what inhibits them, we are able to make our own decisions. This self-awareness allows us to disentangle the threads of conditioning, making room for our own beliefs and desires to emerge.
Creating New Paths
Unraveling the patterns that have long held sway over us requires a conscious decision to create new paths. As we release the grip of old behaviors and thought patterns, we open the door to the liberating expanse of possibility. It's within this space that the seeds of our true potential can germinate and flourish.
Remember, every ripple in a pond begins with a single drop. Similarly, the shifts we wish to see in our external world start as gentle vibrations within. By nourishing our relationship with ourselves, we cultivate the roots of confidence, resilience, and authenticity that will guide us toward our goals.
Just as a garden flourishes when cared for with love and tenderness, so too do our lives when we practice self-compassion. The wellspring of change is replenished by the nourishing waters of unconditional love, kindness, compassion, and forgiveness – all extended not only to others but, crucially, to ourselves.
Our internal dialogue, the conversation we maintain with ourselves, serves as both the architect and sculptor of our reality. Replacing self-criticism with self-encouragement, doubt with belief, and fear with courage, we rewrite the script of our lives. This dialog shapes our thoughts, our actions, and the energy we emit into the world.
Healing Our Heart
To truly embrace the journey of self-relationship is to embark on a journey of healing. Just as a broken bone, when set right, grows back stronger, our wounds when acknowledged and healed, pave the way for resilience and self-love to flourish. The scars that mark our history are not signs of weakness but of strength – proof that we have endured, overcome and emerged wiser.
As the tapestry of our lives continues to unfold, we must remember that the most powerful catalyst for change begins with the love we extend to ourselves. Just as the warmth of the sun nourishes the earth, the warmth of self-love fuels our growth and transformation.
Rewrite Your Narrative
You possess the incredible power to rewrite your narrative. With every step you take towards nurturing your relationship with yourself, you sow the seeds of your dreams and aspirations. The old patterns that once held you captive are no match for the resilient spirit within you.
Let the unconditional love, kindness, compassion, and forgiveness resonate within. Allow your internal dialogue to be a guiding light, illuminating your path toward a life rich with fulfillment and purpose. Embrace the process of healing, for it is through healing that you will discover the boundless capacity of your heart to love yourself unconditionally.
As you water the garden of your soul with nurturing care, watch as it transforms into a flourishing landscape – a testament to your journey of self-discovery, growth, and unwavering self-love.
Judith Richey is A Force For Transformation. She offers spiritual healing and guidance to women entrepreneurs seeking profound transformation and progress beyond the work they have done in personal development and mindset shifts.
Her unique and unconventional approach harnesses the power of energy healing and nontraditional techniques to help her clients become the best version of themselves, and to find fulfillment and abundance in all areas of their lives.
If you are ready to release the conditioning that has been writing the negative narrative that has controlled your life, then we should chat. You can schedule a time with me here.
You do have the power to create your own path! I can help.
By offering online courses and other learning opportunities, coaches and learning experts have a fantastic chance to share their knowledge with people all over the globe. However, putting together a top-notch online course involves careful planning, especially when using technology. Here’s what you need to consider.
Grasping the Heart of Your Curriculum
Before delving into the world of tech, it's super important to really understand your course's curriculum. What are the main things you want your students to learn? What skills and ideas do you want them to take away? Getting a solid grip on your curriculum's core helps you choose technology that works hand-in-hand with your teaching goals.
Picking Tech with a Purpose
The technology you use should be like a helper, not a boss, for your curriculum. When selecting tech tools, focus on ones that make learning more exciting and help students engage with your content. For example, if your course is all about teamwork and solving problems together, think about using platforms where students can collaborate online or work on virtual whiteboards. If your curriculum involves learning from videos, tools for creating and editing videos could be super useful.
Creating a User-Friendly Learning Space
The experience students have while learning is really important for the success of your online coaching course. Choose technology that makes it easy and enjoyable for students to learn. Having a simple and organized layout helps students move through your course materials smoothly, making the learning experience awesome.
Embracing Flexibility
The tech tools you choose should be flexible enough to work for different learning styles and preferences. Your curriculum might be great for people who like looking at things, listening to things, or doing hands-on activities. Your tech should be able to handle all these different ways of learning. Having options like video lessons, interactive quizzes, downloadable materials, and places to chat with classmates can work for lots of different learners.
Making Things Fit Together Nicely
When you add technology to your course creation process, make sure it fits right in with the way you're already working. You want to improve your curriculum without making things too complicated or causing problems. Look for tech solutions that can easily join your course platform and that don't need a lot of time to learn how to use.
Getting People Involved and Excited
Technology can really amp up how engaged students are in your coaching course. Look for tools that encourage students to talk to you and each other. Doing live webinars, having virtual office hours, and setting up places for discussions can make learning more interactive and interesting.
In the world of online coaching and learning, technology can be a powerful tool when you use it thoughtfully. Just remember that technology is there to help your curriculum shine, not the other way around. By knowing your curriculum inside and out, picking tech tools with purpose, focusing on making things easy for learners, being flexible, integrating tech smoothly, and getting students involved, you can create an online coaching course that helps your students succeed while keeping your educational goals front and center.
Tracy Sherriff is a Certified Director of Operations and Curriculum Expert who helps coaches, consultants, and industry experts successfully scale their business online with high-quality, high-impact courses and programs. She is the host of the Scale Your Course Podcast and the founder of Accelerated Learning, where she helps coaches exponentially scale their impact and income with highly effective, high value courses, workshops, and trainings without the fear, confusion, and overwhelm that prevents them from OWNING their expertise and making a BIGGER impact on the world.
You can connect with Tracy by visiting her website tracysherriff.com, or finding her on Instagram @tracy.sherriff
