In 2021 I made the decision to leave my full-time corporate job and to dive into the exciting world of entrepreneurship! I was 33 and just about to wrap up my maternity leave, my son was 18 months old.
This decision came with a ton of risks - but even more rewards. I could have easily decided to stay for the stable pay, the benefits, pension, etc. But that is not what my heart and soul wanted.
That is not what I wanted for my growing family.
That first year was HARD! I failed way more times then won. I invested more money into myself than I brought in. I went against logic time and again. My husband was not 100% on board. Can anyone relate? But, I believed in myself and that belief rubbed off on those around me. I kept going. I kept growing. Persistence is a trait that every successful entrepreneur has had to
ingrain into themselves.
This is where the magic lies. Going against logic. Doing the uncommon. And getting really, really uncomfortable.
If I wanted to live a common life, I would have stayed at my corporate job. But I always knew that wasn’t what I wanted. I always knew I was meant for big things. I think most people have that feeling within them, but not many have the courage to act.
It was towards the end of 2021 that I found my place at the coaching company that I have coached through for the past 2 ½ years. It was that investment that changed everything for me. Again, against all logic - I was broke, in debt and pregnant again. But I knew something needed to change. I took another leap of faith that finally paid off!
In 2022, I was so close to 6-figures…. Like inches off. But there were more lessons to learn - more growing that I needed to do!
2 years later, I more than 4X my income and earned more than I would have if I had climbed up the corporate ladder.
Everything that got me to over 6-figures is not exactly what most would say is the logical way. The lessons that I have learned and continue to learn, including continuing to go against logic will be what takes me to 7-figures and beyond. But, I still have to change. What got me where I am now will not get me to my next goal.
What it actually takes to achieve your goals, to multiply your income and to live the life you may have once only had a pipe dream of is a complete recreation of yourself, your beliefs and your habits. It is not working harder. I repeat… IT IS NOT WORKING HARDER!!!
I worked really really hard in corporate and barely had any money left after taking care of all my expenses.
In 2023, I worked far less than I ever had before (hours-wise). But, I worked more intentionally than ever before! I learned how to use my mind to start getting what I want. And I started to let go of the person who I was. The good, the bad and the ugly. Allowing for the new version of me to unfold. The bigger version of me.
The person I created and became in 2023 will not take me to the next level. I still have growing to do. A lot of it. I have to let go of even my most cherished beliefs and habits. The ones that served me getting me here have to go to get me to where I am going.
True manifestation is manifesting a new identity of yourself. It is developing a whole new consciousness. It is rebirthing. It is aligning yourself to your truth and that truth is that you have infinite potential.
My biggest lessons from this past year, which many are still unfolding for me are:
Whether your goal is to hit 6-figures, 7-figures or 8-figures. It won’t be the same things that got you to where you are that will take you to where you want to go. It will always come down to your self-image. And, you cannot outperform the image you hold of yourself.
Now, as we enter into 2024, I have made the decision to go off on my own and forge my own path in the coaching industry. All of the lessons I have learned, all of my personal growth, and all of my investments in myself have given me the confidence and courage to make this next move.
The pathway towards your goal is not a straight one. The goal and purpose don’t change, but the plan can. Learning to lean into the discomfort will be what takes me, and takes you, to the
next level. Each and every time.
If you want to learn more about self-image, or you are ready to hit your next level in business, reach out. It is the strangest, most uncommon things that will get you there.
Kayleigh Kennedy is the Founder and Mentor of Limitless Coaching. Contact Kayleigh at hello@kayleighkennedy.com or follow her on Instagram @thekayleighkennedy
A Reminder to Smile: Elevating Self-Care for Businesswomen
Warm greetings to the dynamic entrepreneurs of "Happy Healthy Women in Business"! Today, let's reacquaint ourselves with the profound yet simple act of prioritizing our well-being, all while wearing a smile. This gentle nudge serves as a reminder of how self-care is not just beneficial but essential for our success in both business and life.
The Smile Philosophy in Business:
As a Reiki Master, my mantra "Me First with a Smile" isn't about self-preference; it's a testament to how our own health and happiness serve as the bedrock for thriving businesses. At our peak, we become powerhouses of creativity, strategy, and resilience.
Journeying Through Smiles:
Join me on a personal reflection. From Reiki skeptic to advocate, I've discovered the incredible power of inner energy alignment. Sharing a smile ignites a positive feedback loop: my joy becomes my family’s joy, and together, our happiness amplifies. When I teach Reiki[https://www.japan-reiki.ca/courses/] on weekends, this joy reassures me, completing a cycle that nurtures professional growth and profound personal satisfaction.
The Role of SMILE in Our Self-Care Journey:
In our self-care odyssey, let SMILE be our guide: Self-care, Mindfulness, Intuition, Love, and Elevation. Each element a pillar supporting our holistic well-being and business acumen.
Wellness Reiki Circle: A Space of Collective Healing:
Join us at the Wellness Reiki Circle, a sanctuary beyond mere relaxation. It's where collective energy meets individual intent, creating a tapestry of rejuvenation and empowerment, woven together every Wednesday.
I extend an invitation to join our Wellness Reiki Circle. Whether in search of tranquility, motivation, or camaraderie, our circle welcomes you. Remember, caring for ourselves is not just permissible; it’s vital for our entrepreneurial excellence.
Conclusion: Keeping the Smile Philosophy Alive:
As we journey through the world of business, let the smile philosophy be our constant companion. It symbolizes our dedication to self-care, our entrepreneurial spirit, and the collective strength of our community.
I would love to hear how self-care shapes your business ventures. Share with us in the comments or reach out to learn more about the Wellness Reiki Circle. Together, let's champion self-care, not solely for our personal enrichment but for our collective prosperity in business.
Nasreen, a Reiki Master Teacher and founder of Japan Reiki Studio, is also the Canada chapter head of the Japan Reiki Association. She introduces women to self-care and energy work through her Wellness Reiki Circle, a first step in their transformative journey. With a philosophy of 'me first, then everyone else,' Nasreen emphasizes self-healing as essential for empowerment. A former skeptic turned passionate practitioner, she dedicates her life to teaching, healing, and life coaching, aiming to elevate vibrations and spread resilience and positivity.
Learn more about Nasreen
In the competitive world of business, a leader's confidence can make all the difference. And what better foundation for confidence than a clear understanding of your values? Whether you're guiding a team or forging your path as a solopreneur, embracing your core values isn't just about making sound decisions—it's about cultivating the kind of confidence that inspires and leads. This post explores the transformative power of aligning your leadership style with your deepest values, and how this alignment can empower you at every stage of your professional journey.
1. Values at the Heart of Leadership:
Think of values as your north star, guiding everything you do. For team leaders, this means building a work culture that everyone believes in and follows. For solopreneurs, your values are your brand's heartbeat, shaping every aspect of your business and attracting customers who share your ideals.
2. Discover and Embrace Your Values:
Start by figuring out what matters most to you. Is it honesty, creativity, or maybe sustainability? Once you've nailed down your values, share them with your team or weave them into your business. It's all about walking your talk and letting those values shine in every action you take.
3. Making Decisions That Reflect Your Values:
When your decisions are rooted in your values, they feel right and make a lasting impact. For team leaders, this means staying true to what you believe, especially when the going gets tough. For solopreneurs, it's about building a brand that's a true reflection of you and what you stand for.
4. Tackling Challenges with Your Values as Your Guide:
Challenges? They're just part of the game. But with your values as your guide, you can navigate any storm. For team leaders, this means sticking to your principles, even when you're under pressure. For solopreneurs, it means staying loyal to what you believe in, even when the market tries to push you in a different direction.
5. Leading by Example:
Actions speak louder than words. Show your team or customers how your values influence your actions. It's about making your values a living, breathing part of your day-to-day life. This is super powerful.
Your values are more than just guiding principles; they are the bedrock of your confidence as a leader. Whether leading a team or managing your own venture, your values provide clarity and conviction in your leadership style. By fully embracing your values, you enhance not only your decision-making but also the confidence with which you lead, paving the way for a more authentic and impactful leadership journey.
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.
Karen is happy to be a Happy Healthy Women Toronto, ON Trailblazer.
As we enter a new year, many of us have embraced the age-old tradition of setting New Year’s Resolutions. The exercise is always rooted in the best of intentions, but in my experience, has invariably led to disappointment. Likely, because I’ve approached it from a place of judgment and “not good enough”. You see, when I’ve set resolutions in the past, it was to remove some unwanted behaviour, but I never back-filled the void I was creating with something better, healthier, more fun, more… hopeful. I’ve since learned that nature abhors a vacuum, so the hole I was creating would get plugged up with more “judgey junk - junkment?”.
In the past, I also hadn’t taken stock of the previous year’s wins so as to establish what my new baseline was for the upcoming year. We all want a Mulligan, or do-over come January 1st, but we often fail to see that we are now at a new starting point - one that’s pre-filled with 365 days of experiences and lessons, and tons of small successes - if we take the time to see them. To ignore, dismiss or downplay what’s happened is missing out on a very important piece to go forward in our personal growth.
My hindsight also often focused primarily on the month of December (since it’s freshest in our memory) where I’ve just stressed out over the “short month” that has either derailed my business goals or had me working long hours to meet orders, prepping for the Holidays and then smack into the common finale of “I can’t believe I’m sick again at Christmas!”
This year, I wanted to do things differently. I decided to acknowledge some things in an authentic light so I could look forward with a better sense of myself, my potential and get clarity on my vision for 2024. Here’s my new approach.
I fully realized this year that, for me anyway, December had a sense of melancholy attached to it. I lost my sister this past September and the 20th anniversary of my father’s passing was on December 8th.
In the past, I would have gone through the motions of feeling blue without any further reflection - just give it time and let it pass. This year, however, I decided to take a deeper dive. It was a simple thing, really. I gave myself permission: the grief I was feeling was real, it was ok not to be ok and I deserved to give myself grace. My grief didn’t know what day it was. I felt it, acknowledged it, then blessed and released it for now - fully realizing that it would return on other occasions, and that was ok.
I also went back through the year by reviewing 3 sources: my calendar, my journals (I have a hard cover and digital version I use every day), and my photos. As I reviewed these three areas, I decided to look at it as though I were looking at someone else’s life, or conversely if a complete stranger were to look at these 3 areas, what might they see? That enabled me to release myself from judgment and see the wins for what they were and send blessings and gratitude to the not-so-great moments for the beautiful gifts and lessons that were embedded in them. I embraced that exercise with childlike curiosity and wonder.
I would highly encourage you to delve into your own calendars, journals, and photos to identify common threads. Recognize what lights you up and what drains you. Armed with this insight, you gain control over saying yes or no to activities in the future. Follow the "bliss threads" – those activities that bring you joy. Reflect on past habits, decide what worked, and initiate the stacking of small, manageable, and sustainable habits that align with your goals.
I know I’m splitting semantic hairs here, but hear me out. If, for you, the word “resolution” doesn’t have a heavy, negative weight to it, then have at it - set as many resolutions as you like.
I, on the other hand, see resolutions as having a focus on immediate change with a strict, binary win-lose scenario. When I’ve set them in the past, I would last six weeks on average, then drop off, and slip away hoping no one noticed what a loser I was for still doing / eating… fill in the blank. Clearly, merely "quitting" something wasn’t cutting it. I had to replace the habit in question with activities that were pleasant, enjoyable, and empowering.
Goals, on the other hand, are about sustained growth. Having a big audacious goal, like climbing Everest, can be transformative and terrifying at the same time. However, much like climbing Everest, setting smaller, achievable “basecamp” goals along the way can provide you with a roadmap for personal evolution, growing and stretching that much more at every junction.
This past year, I learned a couple of things about goals. One is, I had to have a vision first - what was it I really wanted? Creating a vision board in May 2023 was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. By November 2023, I had manifested not one, not two, but THREE of the images from my board. To say that vision boards are powerful tools is a serious under-statement.
Tip #1: Give Yourself Permission
When I created my vision board, my biggest challenge was admitting what I actually wanted. I know that sounds trite, but my alter-ego (that nagging voice in my head. I call her Madge. She’s the worst) would wag the guilt finger at me anytime I started entertaining ANY idea of fun, wealth, abundance, success.
If any of this sounds familiar, the fix for this can be simple pen and paper:
Get in a relaxed state - a few long, deep breaths
Set a timer for five minutes
During that time, write everything that crosses your mind that you would like - no matter how big or small.
That’s it. No judgment, just fun. See how many things you can write in that time frame. You don’t even have to do anything with this list, the purpose is to get it all out of your body and onto that page and to experience what it’s like to express all your wants.
Tip #2: Get in the Habit
Next, I learned that the real power in achieving goals lies in the compounding effect of constant, spaced repetition. Repetition of learning, absorbing and integrating stacked habits - habits that are energetically aligned with my main goal, and all the basecamp goals leading to it. You see, wishing for something gets you nowhere, you have to take inspired action at every turn. Stacked habits pave the way for that action since they’re impacting your overall behaviour.
Tip #3: Cast Yourself in the Lead
Lastly, and most importantly, I have come to SEE myself as this new version of me that embodies these new habits, see myself having achieved the goal (and, Baby, I look goooooood). That, right there, has been far more empowering than the reverse effect of setting a resolution.
When you’re setting goals for yourself, imprint that image of YOU having achieved those goals. This is where the power of vision boards comes in. With a picture of yourself in a happy time taking center stage on your board, this helps put you in the lead role of the beautiful life you’re envisioning through your very own curated images. Write a stunning self-image script that describes you in this fabulous end game you’ve imagined. Then, following Tip #2, look at that vision board and read that script every day so as to create this indelible image on your subconscious.
So for 2024, I have reviewed, re-adjusted and rewritten my goals. I’ve also opened myself up to invite others in - both people I can serve and people whom I trust that can support me. I continue to immerse myself in study (part of my stacked habits) and continue to ask how I can better serve the world around me with the gifts I’ve been given. I am finding that in gaining clarity around my vision, giving myself permission, integrating stacked habits and tuning up my self-image, the Universe is responding and letting me know it truly does have my back.
Oh - and not a small point here - I have also decided to infuse 2024 with FUN! Yes, I’m focused on business, my health, my relationships, and my overall growth, but I plan on having fun at every turn while I execute and manifest. 
Let’s face it, none of us know how long we’ll be bouncing around on this big blue marble, so why not skip, play hopscotch, make snow angels, sing at top volume, hug the stuffing out of those awesome peeps around us, try a new recipe, take out the china for weekday meals, and say “Hiya Gorgeous” every time you walk by a mirror?
In the script that is your life, make yours Oscar-worthy…. I can’t wait to see who you’ll be wearing.
Carole Filion is an author, speaker and mindset coach who helps women in or approaching their 60’s rediscover their magnificent selves and helps them map out their third act with excitement, grace and a whole lot of fun!
Book a complimentary coaching call with her
Check out her website
Follow her on Instagram @carolejfilion
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Join her Facebook group Badass Revolution - Kicking Ass while Staying Heart-Centered
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Grit up to Level up
Building self-confidence one challenge at a time
Grit – It's not the latest trendy snack, nor the stuff you find in your kid's sandbox. Nope, in the world of self-improvement, grit is the shiny golden ticket to success. But don't worry; it's not all serious business. Grit is like that cheeky sidekick who makes every superhero story more fun. So, let's unravel the mystery of grit, why it's the peanut butter to your confidence's jelly, and how resilience adds a little cherry on top of your personal success sundae.
What's Grit Anyway?
First things first, let's break it down – grit is not just the sandpaper's cooler cousin. It's that never-give-up attitude, the tenacity, the "I won't take no for an answer" spirit. Grit is the unsung hero that keeps you chasing your dreams, even when life tosses obstacles your way. It's like the alarm clock that won't let you hit snooze on your goals.
Grit and Confidence: A Dynamic Duo
Grit and confidence are like the dynamic duo of personal development but without the spandex costumes. Grit is your trusty sidekick, the Robin to your Batman, pushing you into the spotlight, onto that stage, and straight into the action. It's the initial surge of energy that gets you going when you're about to tackle something new. Without grit, you might just stay in your comfort zone, forever wondering "what if."
But wait, here comes the twist: grit, on its own, is like trying to bake a cake without any frosting. It's kind of dry and not nearly as sweet. You see, life is full of curveballs, and sometimes, you'll need more than grit to catch them. Enter resilience, the cherry on top.
Resilience: The Cherry on Top
Resilience is your secret weapon, your ability to bounce back from setbacks with a smile. It's the cool, collected friend who helps you deal with life's surprises. Resilience is what keeps you from crumbling when things don't go as planned. It's like a trusty umbrella in a sudden downpour; you stay dry, while others are running for cover.
Imagine you're a surfer catching a gnarly wave, and that wave represents your confidence journey. Grit is what gets you on your board and paddling out into the ocean, ready to conquer that wave. It's the rush of excitement as you ride it. But, just like in the real ocean, sometimes you wipe out, and the wave crashes over you. That's where resilience becomes your lifeguard.
Resilience is like the lifeguard who helps you back on your board, no matter how many wipeouts you've had. It's the reassuring voice that says, "Don't worry; you can tackle that wave again." So, with grit as your surfboard and resilience as your lifeguard, you're ready to ride the waves of confidence, wipeouts and all. Cowabunga!
In the grand adventure of personal development, grit is your witty sidekick, while resilience is the cherry on top of your success sundae. So, go ahead, rock your cape, jump into your adventure-mobile, and embark on your journey to confidence. With this dynamic duo, you're ready for any challenge that comes your way. It's like a superhero movie but starring you, and the plot is your journey to unstoppable confidence. Holy grit, Batman!
Embrace boldness. Embody confidence.
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.
Karen is happy to be a Happy Healthy Women Toronto, ON Trailblazer.
The habits of athletes and writers, upon inspection, often appear similar. You may think they might be incompatible at first glance. Think of this example: morning writers tend to rise early and prioritize their writing practice first in the day. Many athletes drag themselves out of bed before first light, scarf down a breakfast to feed their muscles, then straight to the workout ahead.
My routine was slightly different when I worked out seven days a week. I’d wake, stretch out with some yoga in the dark, and walk to the dimmed glow of the stove hood fan in the kitchen for a simple breakfast of toast and tea, my eyes adjusting to the soft light as I approached. Then off to my desk for two hours, the first half hour consumed by morning pages and then looking through my notes for what I might write about for the day. Then, I switched to my computer to transcribe handwritten drafts, edit previously entered drafts, or complete a deadline. Then, around 8:30 or 9 a.m., I’d switch to riding the bike for thirty minutes of cardio, then lifting some weights.
The similarity is clear. Morning writers and athletes put their practice first before all else. Both also tend to put in extra time later in the day after school or work.
However, I find my muse loves to tease me when I am in the middle of a cardio stint or a yoga stretch. So I hung a notepad and pen near the Monarch bike I used before smartphones could be told to take dictation into notes. Cardio enhanced my dialogue scenes when I went for a run. The faster my legs churned, the more my two heroines rapid-fired their verbal exchange. I bought a hand-held voice-activated recorder for that dialogue. Before using that device, I could never remember the dialogue as rich as what played out in my mind when my body was on the move.
If you still think these two activities are opposed and require different devotion from the brain, read on.
When athletes and artists fear failure in their vocation, it holds them back. We both must push through that dis-ease of not arriving yet at our desired skill level. Not knowing where we will place or when we finish can dampen our enthusiasm. Maybe more so for writers, as it is often a solitary venture where most serious athletes have coaches. When athletes don’t push through the pain and fatigue, they can lose their lead even though they might have more strength and a better technique than a competitor. Writers must push back on their inner critic and trust their first rough drafts. Writers can compensate for this by joining or forming writing groups that provide encouragement and can see our gems when we cannot. There is no subterfuge here. As you may know, I offer many resources, positive and safe groups, co-working sessions, and inspiration hints for writers.
If you have no exercise routine and identifying with athletes is the furthest thing from your mind, may I suggest looking at some of your routine habits where you can stack writing on as a regular activity. For example, leaving your journal with your morning beverage paraphernalia to remind you it’s time to write.
Just as an athlete can have a bad day where their energy is down, writers can have blasé days where they feel their words lack any punch. While some writing coaches say let them go and where an athlete might hit the shower and go home for a nap, I have found some shitty (yes, I swore) rough drafts may have minuscule phrases that reward persistent effort. One of my favourite books on writing was published in 1937. The author, Dorothea Brand, taught me that when left alone for a minimum of five days, a rough draft can reveal magic tidbits we don’t see when reviewing it too early. I like to borrow the phrase from a mentor that this critical voice is the ‘itty-bitty-shitty-committee’ ready to pounce on any of our grand ideas. The point here is to trust that each effort will lead you somewhere.
We writers can learn from athletes standing tall with gold medals and let go of any embarrassment or humility connected to a great writing day or achievement. This is why I often ask writers in my events to write a little note of praise in front of their name after a writing stint. It may take a long time to hear outside kudos for our writing. We must do that for ourselves. In all areas of life, to believe outside praise of our accomplishments, we must own it internally. Claim it when you have passed a milestone, such as tricky paragraphs or chapters, or achieved a set word count. When you show up and apply the seat of your pants to the seat of your chair, you deserve a celebration even if you are gazing out the window thinking up ideas, phrases, dialogue, blog ideas; remember – you are writing!
Athletes vary their workouts. If you are hitting the wall with dialogue, try setting a scene. If you write long poetry, try a haiku, or if the plot isn’t stealing your imagination with possibilities, do characterization stints on your main characters. What do they seek to gain or stand to lose, and what stands in their way? I used to do my workouts backward when the weights weren’t challenging me anymore (with weights, you want to feel the burn) Switching up your approach to the page can feel lighter, freeing, and less daunting and give you a renewed sense of strength in your craft.
Plan for your writing times, aiming to be as faithful as pro athletes, knowing you can vary your approach. Write the middle or the end or transitions. One detective heroine who worked out swimming and running once ran up numerous stairs in a skyscraper after the villain. Out of breath, she muttered in her head, it doesn’t matter how fit you are in one capacity; another cardio challenge can show you your weaknesses. Exercise in all genres when you need a break from your own and want to test other creative muscles. You might find another area to play and excel in.
Another tip to push through the fog or resistance is to challenge yourself to tiny drills the way an athlete would. Such as a single paragraph, chapter titles, section outlines, or word clouds to develop your next idea.
Both athletes and writers require sleep to be able to perform. I am grateful to be a morning writer. My muse does not often tease me at night.
Our creative brains and our physical bodies need plenty of both. If athletes overdo their regimen when tired or dehydrated, they can experience injury. Watch out for that carpal tunnel. (Cancel. Cancel. You are free of that!) Our brains are mostly water, and our thought processes can become sluggish when dehydrated.
Writers can experience emotional injury. Say what? Guilt. Circumstances, family needs, and day jobs can steal you away from meeting your writing goals. Be kind to yourself and return guilt-free to your desk or favourite writing chair as soon as possible. Plan in rest periods to let your mind wander and play. You’ll know and feel it when a writing idea, scene, or plot begs to be landed on the page and screen. Then return to your writing times with a renewed vigour.
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Achievable
R - Realistic
T - Time
Just as athletes set out benchmarks to beat or meet, time trials to shave off a few seconds, and add more pounds on their lifts, writers need achievable marks to hit. Start with manageable goals like 100 words of prose a day. When you steadily hit your goal, and if you find yourself regularly writing more, you may decide to up your goal. I once decided to write a poem a day for a year. At the end of the year, I had more than 365 poems, so I did a crazy thing and challenged myself to write four poems a day for a whole year. Foolish me, some days, I strained to pull out two poems, and some days, I scratched out six to catch up.
But I did it and ended up with some stellar and definitely not-so-stellar poems totalling over 1,460 poems. Reach out if you want a free inspiration boost.
Knowing your specific strategic objectives for your writing and being aware of the aspects under your control is essential with S.M.A.R.T goals. Receiving best-seller status, making it on some key lists, and receiving awards are outside your control. Staying true to writing your very best, creating a support team, and choosing your book journey team members are all realistic aspects up to you. Look at all the steps to reach your goal. Break any step down that seems too big. Plot a timeline, then create a schedule and routine you can confidently follow to meet your spaced-out goals. With these tips in mind, you can and will achieve your desired result. You know where to find me if you want assistance anywhere along your writing/book journey path.
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.
Portrait of Carole Filion, Mindset Coach and Mentor
There's a unanimous consensus among experts that a sharp, professional headshot is non-negotiable in today’s digital business world. However, the real questions emerge when we consider taking it a step further – when and why should you invest in your personal brand photography, and what tangible impact does it have? Why bother putting your face out there if you’re not a model or selling your radiant smile?
Let’s explore why your portrait is more powerful than you might think.
The Face Factor: Why your photos speak volumes
Portrait of Dr. Lucille Necas, The Joy of Purpose
Imagine your personal brand as a storybook, and each photo of yourself is a chapter. Even if you're not selling your looks, people connect with faces and personalities. Humanizing your brand makes it relatable and approachable. Your face becomes the visual anchor that helps your audience remember you in the sea of online content.
Still wondering what does your face have to do with what you sell? Think again. When you choose a lawyer, real estate agent or a business coach to work is (and boy, it’s not an easy task!), you expect certain professional qualifications. But how do you pick the one out of many, all other things equal? It’s their personality that makes you want to work with them. Whatever traits you are drawn to in people, they are embedded in their brand, and it all starts with first impressions.
So, whether you're a coach, consultant, or a product-based business owner, your face is your secret weapon to stand out in a crowd. People connect with people, not logos!
Strategic Placement: Where and when to shine
Now that we've established the importance of you showing up, let's talk strategy. It's not just about plastering your face everywhere; it's about knowing where and when to showcase your personal brand photography for maximum impact.
1) Your website: Your website is your virtual storefront, and your photos are the welcoming committee. Your best shot on your homepage creates an instant connection with visitors and it could be a deciding factor in whether they are scheduling that first discovery call with you. I kid you not, this is how I chose my therapist. Don't shy away from including photos across different pages to maintain that personal touch throughout the browsing experience.
2) Social media: Whether you are more present on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or TikTok, social media is where your personal brand photography can truly shine. Depending on the platform, you might choose to show more fun and quirky side of your personality, or authoritative and educational. Regardless, no one is just one thing. And the beauty of social media is that it gives you an opportunity to showcase different sides of your personality, allowing more people to relate to you and identify with what you do. Use professional and personality-packed photos for your profile pictures and cover images. Intersperse candid shots to give your audience a closer look at the human behind the brand.
3) Email marketing: Inject a dose of personality into your emails by incorporating your photos strategically. A well-placed portrait in your email signature or a candid moment in your newsletter can make your messages more memorable and personable.
4) Events: Whether you’re organizing a virtual summit or an in-person conference, your face should be front and center. Attendees connect more with real people, so use this opportunity to showcase your personality and make lasting impressions.
Humanizing your brand makes it relatable and approachable. Your face becomes the visual anchor that helps your audience remember you in the sea of online content. ~ Veronica Kucherov
Portrait of Sushma Kashyap, Founder, Upright Bookkeeping
Setting the Stage for Success: How to become photogenic when you think you’re not
Still have hard feelings about putting your face in the spotlight? You are not alone. So many successful business owners put off their photo session as long as they can simply because being in front of the camera feels so uncomfortable. It might all make a lot of sense from the business perspective, and yet, there is nothing more personal than your face. How do you step out of your comfort zone when deep down you believe that you just don’t look good in photos?
Let's talk about the crucial planning stage. It's not just about grabbing your smartphone and snapping a selfie (although those have their time and place). Strategic personal brand photography begins with meticulous planning. To look good, you have to feel good first. And to feel good, you need to trust the process. Here is how to do it right:
• Planning like a pro: Before you start worrying about posing and your facial expressions, take a step back and ask yourself: What story do you want your photos to tell? Are you the friendly next-door expert or the sophisticated industry maven? Align your photo strategy with your brand message. It's the difference between a scattered photo collection and a cohesive visual narrative.
• Know your audience: Your ideal client is at the heart of your personal brand. It’s not just about you – it’s about what you can do for them. Thank about speaking to them at their eye-level. If your audience is stay at home homemakers, go for casual, relaxed shots that exude approachability. If they are high-level corporate executives, opt for images exuding strength, power, and authority.
• Outfit selection: Your wardrobe can make it or break it. Choose outfits that not only align with your brand but also look fantastic on camera. Solid colors often work best, avoiding busy patterns that might distract from your message. Don't forget about accessories – they can add that extra pop of personality without stealing the show.
• Getting camera-ready: Talking about “feel good first”, it’s hard to show up with confidence if you’re concerned about your hair being out of place or makeup done right. A professional touch with a skilled hair and makeup artist ensures you look your absolute best, boosting your confidence and translating into stunning visuals. Think about these photos as an investment in your brand and in yourself. If it’s worth it to pamper yourself for someone else’s wedding – it's okay to pamper yourself for your business success!
To look good, you have to feel good first. And to feel good, you need to trust the process. ~ Veronica Kucherov
Portrait of Carole Filion, Mindset Coach and Mentor
DIY vs. Pro: Imperfect action beats perfect inaction.
Professional photography is not cheap, and you know that you get what you pay for. As a professional photographer, my suggestion is either to do it right and consider it an investment, or DIY it yourself. Yes, I just said it. I heard too many horror stories about people deciding they are never doing a professional photo shoot again, because their 5-minute headshot didn’t turn out everything they wanted it to be. If you prefer to invest time, there are a lot of resources online that can help you understand the basic principles of photography, such as lighting, posing, and composition. If you are just starting out and have limited funds, with the right planning and a good eye, you can get you “good enough” images until you can afford the magic that a professional photographer brings to the table.
When to DIY: If you're confident in your photography skills, have a solid understanding of your brand and your marketing plan, and don’t shy away form a camera, DIY-ing your personal brand photos can be a budget-friendly option. Invest in good equipment, pay attention to lighting, and, most importantly, be patient with yourself. Research the examples and practice posing and facial expressions in front of the mirror. The DIY approach saves you money as long as you are realistic about the time that you will have to invest in exchange.
When to choose a pro: Hiring a professional photographer can elevate your photos to a whole new level, and ultimately saves you time – and yes, money too. Apart from the obvious – such as technical expertise and an artistic eye – a seasoned photographer can help you with your styling and planning. From location research, arranging a hair and makeup artist, and mapping out your shot list in line with your marketing strategy, the main benefit is in taking the stress out of your photo shoot, and freeing you up to focus on being your authentic self.
In conclusion, whether you choose the DIY route or opt for a pro, the key is to approach personal brand photography with intention and to be kind to yourself in the process. Your face is your brand's greatest asset, and your story is what makes you unique. To bring that story to your audience, the only step you need to take is the one outside of your comfort zone. I know it takes courage. You got it! Cheers to showcasing the amazing face behind your brand!
Portrait of Sushma Kashyap, Founder, Upright Bookkeeping
Veronica is the owner of Vongue Art Photography - a full-service portrait studio in Toronto helping camera-shy people over 40 look and feel their best in their photos. Veronica's mission is to photograph you the way you want to be seen. Whether it is to level up your business marketing, or to preserve your personal history in custom heirloom albums and wall art, you deserve to have portraits that make you feel beautiful and proud.
Emotions Matter: Feelings Are Our Friends
Acknowledging and accepting our emotions can lead to positive growth and healing.
There was a time when I couldn't stand my boss's phrase, "Feelings are our friends," especially during emotionally charged moments with a client. It seemed to mock my turmoil. However, over time, I realized the truth in those words. Emotions, despite their intensity, offer invaluable insights into our lives, reflecting our perceptions and interactions.
Recognizing and understanding our feelings is crucial—they signal our inner needs, desires, boundaries, and values. They guide us toward areas needing attention, be it growth, healing, or change. Rather than adversaries, emotions are messengers, essential for self-discovery and personal development.
Listening to these signals has taught me to see emotions as allies. Each one, from anger to joy, serves as a guidepost, highlighting something significant within us. By embracing them, we can transform emotional challenges into opportunities for self-awareness and empowerment.
Embracing our feelings indeed opens a door to a richer, more balanced life, guiding us towards resilience, wisdom, and inner strength. This journey of acceptance is not solitary. It unfolds a tapestry of human experience, woven with the threads of hope and the promise of a life where emotions are not just felt but celebrated. As we honour each emotion as a catalyst for personal growth and vitality, we pave the way to a more enlightened, fulfilling existence.
This path of emotional acceptance connects us to others, as it is a universal human experience that transcends individuality. Understanding our emotions fosters a deeper empathy, allowing us to recognize the common threads of our experiences. As we each navigate the nuances of our feelings, we become more attuned to those around us, enriching our relationships through shared understanding. The act of embracing our feelings leads to a collective well-being, where peace and contentment are not just personal achievements but communal treasures. By integrating and honouring our emotions, we create a world that values emotional wisdom as the bedrock of a compassionate and vibrant society.
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.
Karen is happy to be a Happy Healthy Women Toronto, ON Trailblazer.
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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