Retreat Coach on the Farm

KarmaTube: Little Red Wagon

Zach Bonner "If you have a good heart you have to use it." Zach is only 10 and I have to wonder how such a big heart fits in such a small boy?

Women Who Inspire Change: Cindy's Interview

Women Who Realize their Dreams

Cindy is the owner of the The Light Fandango Candle Company.

Judith: Welcome to my blog, Cindy, on this wonderful summer day. We are talking today about how women inspire change. What has been your experience with that?

Cindy: The change in my life that transformed me has to be the death of my mother. Her dream of owning a restaurant was unfulfilled. I decided I did not want my future to be determined by others, and I wanted to forge my own path.

Judith: It sounds like your mother was a very strong presence in your life and you learned wonderful things from her. What did you do to forge your own path?

Cindy: I am a 43-year-old woman who has undergone two major career changes in her life. After spending 6 years in retail, I decided it was time to go back to school to pursue my first love-radio. I spent 15 years in several markets with jobs as news anchor, music director, and finally program director. In September ’07, I decided it was time to take my part-time passion and make it a full-time business, so I launched my own company, The Light Fandango Candle Company.

Judith: First of all, I really want to acknowledge you for your entrepreneurial spirit. It can be daunting to take such a bold step and start a business from scratch. What led up to you turning your part-time passion into a full-time business?

Cindy: Two years ago, I became frustrated because the creative control of my radio station was slowly being taken away from me. I decided that I needed to have control over the product I was responsible for, especially if my livelihood depended on it. So I took a deep breath, quit my job, and started taking the necessary steps to make the candles an actual business and not just a sideline.

Judith: Congratulations! You were creating your life one courageous step at a time. First you had an awareness that things were not working, you stopped and look a long deep breath while you looked for your next vantage point and then you took action. Could you share some of your wins and challenges with us?

Cindy: I consider any new sale a win because I have convinced someone that my product is worth their money. I also feel like a winner when an item I envision in my head actually comes to fruition.

Challenges include-competing with the sheer numbers of candles on the market. I have to work constantly to find ways to differentiate my hand-crafted items from candles that can be purchased in stores.

Judith: I have several of your wonderful candles and have given them as gifts. I can say with certainty that they are special and the wonderful smell permeates throughout the house.  How has your life changed as a result of you starting your own business two years ago?

Cindy: To start with, MUCH less stress! I have more of myself to give to family and friends because I am not spent from stressing myself out at a career that was making me unhappy.  

I enjoy setting my own hours, and I am working on items I love to make-not someone else’s busy work.

I have developed more confidence in myself. I have always been a “hide my light under a bushel” type, but in order to grow I have to be comfortable talking about what I do.

Judith: You brought up two wonderful points. One, it is so important to be doing what you love. The benefits are enormous such as less stress, more to give others, not to mention the pure joy of it!

The other point is that you could no longer hide your light under a bushel. This is so important for women to understand who are making major changes in their lives. Things will need to stretch you a bit out of your comfort zone and for that say hurrah! You are growing and doing exciting things if it feels a bit uncomfortable.

As we close our talk today, what advice do you have for women who want to make a change in their lives but are fearful of coming out from under the bush and letting their own lights shine?

Cindy: In this economy, more and more women will be attempting to do their own thing. If a woman plans on striking out on her own, know that success does not come quickly and things may be lean for a time. But have faith in yourself and your abilities, don't panic when things get tough, and make sure you have a time line & business plan.

Judith: Yes, I agree! Having faith in your ability and in what you love is crucial. Don’t listen to the naysayers who make you doubt yourself. Go for what you want and you will thrive!

“It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power.”

Alan Cohen

Cindy thanks for stopping by. It has been a pleasure to talk with you today!

Cindy: I appreciate the opportunity!

Here is Cindy’s contact information, please take a look at her wonderful candles!

Lucinda Wormsbaker

 

Let your life reach new heights that you never thought were possible! Join Coach Judith for a free private (always confidential) coaching consultation. Call 315.497.3059 or email Judith@flyingchangecoaching.com   

Judith Geiger ~ Certified Relationship Coach

Flying Change Coaching, LLC

Women Who Inspire Change: Margie's Interview

 

“Super Woman” Slowing Down"

Margie Scott offers Healthy Choices for Happier Lives..."Living Bliss" Life Coaching & Retreats

Judith: Thanks for coming to my blog to inform my readers about how change can enhance their life. I know you as the coach who is passionate about assisting women to make healthy choices for their bodies. Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your work?

Margie: Thanks Judith. I know it's going to be fun to be here with you. The biggest change I'm experiencing right now is the process of menopause. Wow! I never realized how this biological change could affect things on so many different levels. I find myself questioning so much about myself, my work, and the choices I have made in my life that sometimes it leaves me spinning. The silence and stillness of solitude regularly calls to me and for someone who is very happy being busy, productive and "doing", this makes for some difficult moments.

The great thing about it is that my "Super Woman" persona is being required to take a back seat and I'm starting to get very clear what is really important and what I most want to apply my energy towards.

Judith: Thank you Margie for talking about a subject that is so close to my heart as I’m sure it is to most women. Today we are blessed to have so many resources available to assist us on our journey. One book I especially like is, “The Wisdom of Menopause” by Christiane Northrup, M.D. (Creating Physical and Emotional Health and Healing During the Change). I know you work daily with women assisting them to make healthy choices and it sounds like you are now being called to do that for yourself. You spoke about having to put down the “Super Woman” persona and move toward what is really important in your life. Could you tell my readers a bit about that journey and where you find it is taking you?

Margie: Identifying that I even had a “Super Woman” persona was the first step, and probably the most difficult. In many ways she has been a superb ally by giving me the energy and drive to reach goals in the midst of some very challenging times in my life. Without her I probably wouldn't be a Retreat Coach or a Life Coach. Once those challenges mellowed out however, she began to exhaust me by continuously requiring me to be doing so I can get “somewhere”. She had me believing that if I wasn't always doing, then I wasn't successful, and I wasn't making a positive contribution to the world around me.

Judith: It sounds like once you were able to identify that you had a “Super Woman” persona then you were able to work with it rather than having it control you. You spoke earlier about a need at this time in your life to slow down. How was your “Super Woman” able to assist you with that?

Margie: The first piece was about honoring her contribution to my life and asking her to continue to gift me with the good parts, while letting her know I didn't need the other stuff. This freed up my energy to focus more on my own health and healing and to recognize how very important that is—for my own well being and in terms of being a positive role model for my clients. From this place I was able to develop the“1-2-3, I'm Getting Healthy” program, which identifies 17 elements integral for living a life of Whole Health and Wellness. This not only provides a tool for my clients but really is a roadmap for my own personal life.

Judith: What a fabulous place to be in now with your energy freed up as you describe it and I know you are able to assist your clients to get healthy with your programs. I always think of coaching as offering clients the opportunity to be healthy, wealthy and wise as the old saying goes. There is a reason why healthy is the first word in this group. Of course it is because without our health nothing else matters! First we must take care of ourselves so that we have more to give others!

I have enjoyed talking with you here Margie. If someone wants to discuss your “1-2-3, I’m Getting Healthy” program how can they get in touch with you? Do you offer a free consultation?

Margie: Yes, I do offer introductory sessions. People can connect with me by visiting my new blog site or emailing me at gaiagirlmargie@yahoo.com. To specifically learn more about the "1-2-3" program they can visit. I can be called at 520-432-5936.

Thanks so much for having me here. This has been such an interesting format!!

Judith: Thank you Margie for sharing things that mean so much to you with us! It has been a pleasure to spend this time with you. Remember everyone Margie Scott offers Healthy Choices for Happier Lives... "Living Bliss" Life Coaching & Retreats.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

Copyright 2009

Judith Geiger ~ Certified Success Coach

Flying Change Coaching, LLC

All rights reserved

 

"One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar." Helen Keller

Let your life reach new heights that you never thought were possible! Join Coach Judith for a free private (always confidential) coaching consultation.

Call 315.497.3059 or email Judith@flyingchangecoaching.com

Women Who Inspire Change: Maggie G's Interview

 

Maggie Goes “Green”

 

Maggie Gilson is an active, interesting 62 year old retired woman looking for another vocation to keep her busy for the next 20 years or so. 

 

Judith: Welcome to my blog Maggie. I know you to be a very strong woman who has dealt with many changes. I would love to hear a bit about your journey and how you were led to be here in Skaneateles, New York.

 

Maggie: One year ago John called from Detroit and asked what I thought of Syracuse. He said, "Chance of a lifetime."  I said, "At our age, take it."  Two weeks later I moved to Skaneateles and we started a magnificent adventure, in a quaint little village, far away from our children and grandchildren and never-ending board meetings. Since 1975 I owned 4 businesses in Michigan, including a construction company, a golf course, a lounge and a catering company. The burn out got to me, and my husband and I decided to sell out and switch gears. We retired for three years and traveled extensively with our grandchildren, and each other, but soon realized that we were too young to be retired. While John returned to the work force, it was shocking and shattering to me to be unable to find a decent position. Now, I am focusing on changing my situation to one of opportunity and fulfillment. 

 

Judith:  I can only imagine the tenacity and hard work that must have been part of your everyday life. It is absolutely fabulous that you are looking for opportunity and fulfillment now. You have 62 years of amazing life experience that has made you a very valuable resource. This is a time in your life when you can take advantage of being able to pick and choose those jobs that truly bring you joy! Do you have a sense of what type of work that might be?

 

Maggie: I was always a creative person, designing and making my first outfit while in the third grade. My first purchased dress after that was my wedding dress.  I used my creativity in my businesses, from creating new and visionary ad campaigns, to cooking beautiful presentations for 400 people, to inventing interesting cocktails, and creating beautiful flower beds on our golf course, while building a new home and marketing property that we have in the area. I hadn't thought how really creative I was until I started putting it all down on paper. 

Judith: I find that is often true with my clients also. When they take the time to put on paper what is important to them versus just being an abstract thought in their mind, it often offers a new perspective. Now that you are seeing how creative you really are what else do you think you would like to pursue in a new career or should we say a new adventure?

 

Maggie: I also knit, design needlepoint pillows and rugs, and my favorite pastime, designing and knitting and sewing wardrobes for 18" dolls, (American Girl and Springfield.)  My perfect vocation would be able to operate a business that would include lessons, patterns, tips and finished items. This may be on the internet or a bricks and mortar facility.  I have been my own boss for so long, I think a craft shop would be difficult, unless I owned it. I believe there are hundreds of creative women looking for an outlet for their products. I want to harness it, and make some money in the process.  I also believe in "Green."  Recycle, reuse and rebuild. The wave of the future.

 

Judith: Now you are touching something very close to my heart when you talk about green careers! I am wondering if there is a way to tap into the perfect vocation you spoke about and include “Green”. What might that look like? Here is a wonderful website that you might be interested in: Green Career Central.

 

Maggie: I am amazed by the vast amount of "stuff" everyone has accumulated during their lives. It is very apparent when we see the number of storage units across the country.  With our struggling economy, it is time to start using up our resources and tapping into our supplies to help others and simplify our lives. By eliminating unnecessary items in our lives, we free ourselves from so many burdens. It is simply enlightening and renewing. All those with unused resources in their lives should consider "downsizing."

 

Judith: I so agree! When we do all of the wonderful things you are talking about Maggie we not only help our planet and each other but we also get a real sense of freedom that comes from de-cluttering. This allows space for more good things to come into our lives!

 

Maggie: My goal is to be available for women who want to downsize and recycle their possessions for profit.  I see the “green” aspect in reusing perfectly good items and not buying something else.

 

Judith: Thank you so much for your caring spirit and all of the good work you are doing. It has been a real pleasure to have you here today! If anyone is interested in talking with Maggie about her services please contact Coach Judith by email or call 315 497 3059 and I will be happy to pass the information on to Maggie. She is currently in Skaneateles, New York and will be returning to Michigan later this summer or early fall. We will miss you!

 

 Are You Ready for a Change? Looking for Meaning and Passion in Your Life? Then check out the Purpose Clarity program here! Get started today on the road to success! Email or call Coach Judith for a free consultation. 315 497 3059

Judith Geiger ~  Certified Personal Success Coach

www.flyingchangecoaching.com

Photos: Maggie G. with her Muse Mask and by the ocean on a creativity retreat in Maine! Retreat was led by Maggie Butler. See her interview here!

Women Who Inspire Change: Helene's Interview

Environmental activist Helene Van Manen teaches us about earth medicine and self-care.

Helene Van Manen describes herself as a woman that is much like a western landscape. “I see myself as ever changing with the seasons, with a lot of texture and when seen at a distance, probably much different than when I am experienced up close.”

Judith: Thanks Helene for visiting with me and my readers here on my blog. What a wonderful visual you paint of yourself as a western landscape and a great metaphor for change. I have known you to be a wonderfully inspiring woman so I am anxious to hear your ideas. What type of changes would you like to talk about today?

Helene: I just turned 50 and with it comes changes that one just has to keep pace with. I am so happy that I have invested in my health and self-care at a very high level in this past decade…since I am noticing the body changes that 50 brings…and I am so glad I am fit, can hike and still carry a backpack so I can go into the wild canyons of Utah that give me inspiration. I am also noticing the inner changes that invite me to listen more…to spend more time in quiet…a going inside that is more compelling than ever.

Judith: The canyons of Utah sound like a very special journey that would inspire anyone able to make the trip. You talked about being "proactive" with self-care so that you are able to continue to do the things you love by taking time to go inward as well as strengthening your physical body. It sounds like a mind body and spirit connection led you to where you are today. What would you like my readers to know about your change at 50 and beyond?

Helene: I have this acute sense of how fragile life is, how precious and how temporary it all is. I am someone who is not “waiting to live” but living each day. I do not do well waiting. I want it all now...and I feel I have it.

As an environmental activist I find that I must go to wild places in nature where I can listen deeply to not only what my life is saying to me, but also to what the land says to me. My work as a professional coach combined with the role I have been entrusted to live as a grandmother, I take very seriously. So I guess that what I want readers to consider is…are you taking time to listen? Where do you go to find ‘earth medicine’?

Judith: I love the phrase earth medicine. I only need to walk out my back door, as you do, to have nature at my fingertips. My want is that we never take nature or our precious lives for granted. You really walk your talk, as they say, being of service to others as well as your own family and the earth. What type of clarity do you get when you go out in nature on your hikes with your husband David or alone?

Helene: Something happens to me when I am outdoors. It’s hard to explain but somehow while walking, I am moved into a flow...and from that comes a fueling of my inner fire that spills then over into my work. I often tell women in business that I built my entire business on taking long walks in the ponderosa forests after hours of relationship marketing: I would talk with potential clients, send emails, give a talk and then while walking I would just bask in the flow of the deep green. Upon my return, I would find 3 people having left messages on my phone machine wanting me to coach them. It’s a process that I believe mirrors the connected system the Nature has designed where everything is connected.

Judith: I know exactly what you are talking about Helene. It has to do with taking action and then just letting go! If we get too attached to what we want, it can often block the flow. Your way of doing business is very similar to mine when I stay present and don’t let doubt or worry override my efforts. Thanks for that lovely reminder. I’ll take an extra long walk in the woods tonight.

I know you are a very busy woman, grandmother, business owner, teacher, earth keeper, professional coach and so much more, but one thing you do I would really love for my readers to know about and that is your Retreat Coach Training. I was extremely blessed to be able to be trained by the best (Helene Van Manen) and go to not only one but two of your wonderful in-person retreat trainings in Colorado. Those retreats are simply fabulous!!! Tell my readers a little about your work in this area.

Helene: I specialize in training women to lead retreats.  I invite women to come and learn hands on with me in Colorado this fall for one of a half dozen trainings I will offer ranging from 2  day intensives to 5 day spacious sky retreats combined with training.  What women get from me is a deep immersion into both their own development as a Retreat Coach and their inner personal landscape through the power of retreating in a mountain landscape setting.  I love training other women to combine their skills and talents along with the many exercises I teach.  Learn more here at my site www.retreatcoaches.com

I had to include the Colorado earth flag photo because this is really soo me..women extending out from me under the beautiful blue green globe.

Judith: It has been such a pleasure talking with you today Helene. Thanks for coming. I also love this picture because it brings back such wonderful memories of how it feels to be on retreat with you as the leader. Yes everyone it is me in the cowboy hat and great big smile!

 

Coach Judith is offering a full weekend retreat this fall at the beautiful Stella Maris Retreat Centerin Skaneateles, New York. You are invited on a journey of self-exploration to find your balance in changing times.Learn more here.Email or call for more information about retreats or coaching. 315.497.3059 Judith@flyingchangecoaching.com

 

  "Retreat is about stepping out of your ordinary existence to listen and attune to your truest, most authentic self. It is about being self-referenced to become self-restored. It is setting apart time to tend the hearth of your inner life, feed your muse, reclaim your dreams."

Jennifer Louden

Women Who Inspire Change: Margot's Interview

 

   

Margot Datz talks about Self-Care, Divorce and her wonderful book, A Survival Guide for Landlocked Mermaids.

Judith: Welcome Margot to my blog. It is a warm sunny day here in Central New York. Spring is in the air with Bluebirds and Robins singing with joy! I would imagine it is just the kind of day that would inspire an artist like yourself.

 

Margot: Spring arrives very late to our island of Martha's Vineyard, due to the ocean retaining the cold, and right about now the whole island is populated with raving lunatics stricken with such severe cases of spring fever that it has reached epidemic proportions. I envy the true spring of upstate New York, and miss it dearly, having been raised there. When spring finally does arrive, I will be the first to go leaping into it, like Isadora Duncan.

Judith: I want to tell you how very inspiring your book, A Survival Guide for Landlocked Mermaids is and I adore your paintings. Your book speaks to the very heart of women's desires. It touches very profound subjects with a lightness of spirit. Could you tell my readers a bit about your work?

Margot: I am a painter, muralist, designer, illustrator- and love the opportunity to be creative in many directions. Writing was my minor in college, but always remained in the background of my creative field. About 11 years ago I began to paint my landlocked mermaids. They just bubbled up from my unconscious, to awaken me to all the issues I was grappling with internally. It was a very delightful discovery when I learned that these issues were far from singularly my own. There were whole schools of women of like-mindedness. Upon this realization, I gathered up this body of paintings and wrapped words around them, (kind of a cart before the horse writing experience), creating my little book of illuminations.

Judith: It is so interesting that you say the paintings bubbled up from your unconscious and were awakening you to your internal issues. I love at the end of the book where you write "To Thine Own Mermaid Be True." Self-care seems to be a big part of what your book is talking about. Was there a shift taking place for you during this time?

Margot: That is a very interesting observation, Judith. At the time, I was undergoing the painful, challenging, ever-so-daunting ordeal of a divorce, after 20 years of marriage. I was a newly single mom with kids in tow, out there slugging it out in the art world, juggling 12 balls, dropping at least 3 daily. Both of my parents were dead, and except for my woman friends I really didn't have a net. I was the bottom line- the cook, boot camp sergeant, Florence Nightingale, a carpenter, plumber, entrepreneur.... an endless list of demands. If I didn't take care of myself, I would self destruct, and that would serve no one. It is very easy indeed for women to slip into what ends up being masochistic behavior. We don't set out to be masochists, however, we are oddly rewarded for it. What can compete with the saintliness of a long suffering woman? I saw that if I was going to be effective in the long run I HAD to take care of myself. One of my jobs as a mother was to help my children internalize an inner mother that would continue to care for them as they grew up and away from me. It was not enough to simply care for them, and neglect myself. It was not enough for me to love them, and not love myself. "Love is as love does." Self-care is living out the love we have for ourselves, love in motion. This comes much more naturally to some than others. I hope that various passages instill the precious importance of self-care.

 Judith: I absolutely LOVE how you explained the need for self-care and also for a support system. It sounds like your transition would have been a bit easier if a solid support system had been in place for you prior to your divorce. I invite all women to take action on their own support system now. You never know when one will be needed. You have modeled so perfectly here the one most important message that all women need to understand and that is, we truly need to learn to love ourselves. I once heard a woman say, (who was working on her own personal growth) “I love YOU best, AFTER ME.” That very simple statement rings in my ears whenever I am making a difficult choice to say to someone I love, “NO, I cannot not do that for you today.” Loving ourselves is crucial!

YOU Margot, are a courageous and strong woman. My readers can learn so much from you. I cannot thank you enough for sharing your heart here on my blog. Your wonderful book, A Survival for Landlocked Mermaids, not only tells women about your powerful messages but each and every illustration shows them what is possible. Margot, would you tell my readers which illustration is your favorite and why?

Margot: There are definitely landmark pieces for me, the pieces that hauled me up by my tank top straps and said, "Darling, pay attention!" The first was the piece of the mermaid with the goldfish bowl on her lap-"She was trying to remember the last time she'd had a really good swim". That was my first mermaid piece, and it was an awakening that begat awkenings. Pandora's box. A quiet personal favorite is "Marlaina walks her dog," which is where I am at now. It is about composure and the archaic virtue of POISE. I have a girlfriend who was in charge of a rubbish disposal business on the island at one time. In the rubbish business, there is a term called a "contained burn", which means that whatever one is dealing with is dealt with in a controlled environment, which is very metaphoric in a deeply pragmatic sense. I think that one of the first steps of maturity is to own your own impact on the environment, physically AND emotionally. Each one of us is our own ecosystems- and we can be biofriendly or remarkably toxic or somewhere in between. To own your own "fallout" is a huge step in spiritual advancement. And a HUGE step in personal empowerment. Each one of us matters IMMENSELY. Every woman who awakens to her own personal prowess and potential quickens a multitude more. Awareness is more contagious than negativity. Soooooooo, WAKEY WAKEY!

Judith: "Awareness is more contagious than negativity" reminds me of a quote I love.

"How others treat me is their path, how I react is mine." ~Wayne Dyer

If we are able to stay strong in "who" we are and not get caught up in what others say or do, it will act as a shield to keep negativity at bay. I thank you Margot for sharing all of your wisdom and spending your precious time here on my blog. You have been a true delight to talk with. I hope you come back again soon.

 Margot: Thank you for the opportunity to share my life with you and others. All you merwomen out there, you know who you are! Please check out my new book, and visit me on my website at www.margotdatz.com, and to thine own inner mermaid be true.

 Judith: My wish for all women is to show up authentically and be true to yourself!!! My passion is coaching women to find their authentic self and live their passion. If you would like coaching to assist you in moving in that direction, then please, contact me for a free no obligation consultation.  Email or call 315.497.3059 Visit Coach Judith's website.

"Be authentic and passionate everyday!" Coach Judith

Women Who Inspire Change: Maggie's Interview

Maggie Butler is a creative writing workshop & retreat leader and writer.  She also coaches a small number of motivated and dynamic women who want to invite more creativity in their lives or move ahead on a creative project.

Don’t Leave a Part of Yourself Behind

 

Maggie Butler talks to us from Ireland

 

Judith:  Thank you so much, Maggie, for stopping by today to tell my readers a bit about you and how you encourage women to embrace change.

 

Maggie:  You’re very welcome, Judith.  I’m honoured you invited me on your Blog Interview.  I so admire how you are always looking for ways to support, encourage, inform and uplift your coaching clients and readers.

 

Judith:  I know you are always up to great things, Maggie.  What would you like to tell my readers about today?

 

Maggie:  Great question!  There are a couple of things I’d like to tell your readers, I think.  The first is this:  express yourself!  Whether its writing, painting, knitting, laying out a garden, choosing a colour scheme for your home, making your own cards, decoupage, planning your career - whatever it is, express yourself freely and authentically.  It’s part of who you are, another facet of you to shine.

 

I think of creativity as an energy, and when it’s blocked or unexpressed it can result in a sense of restlessness or listlessness, even depression.  It’s often experienced as a sense of something missing in one’s life.  

 

Judith:  When you say it feels like something is missing or a restlessness, I am reminded of how many women mop the floor every week but cannot find time to express their own creative nature.  What do you see as a possible reason for this?

 

Maggie:  Firstly, I think it’s got to do with valuing one’s self.  People often shy away from creative expression, or they minimize it:  “Oh, I’m not very good at ________” - your readers can fill in that blank themselves, I’ll bet!  Or, “It’s not really important.”

 

Expressing yourself creatively isn’t about getting published, having a gallery showing, getting accepted in a juried craft show - although all that can certainly be part of it.  It’s about showing up authentically, acknowledging another part of yourself.  I know its’ boring to hear by now, but it’s truly about the process and not necessarily the outcome.  We create because it’s honouring of who we are.  It’s also about making sense or meaning in our lives.

 

Judith:  I find creativity is often associated with spirituality.  If creativity cannot be expressed, for whatever reason, a part of the person is left behind.  When a woman decides her own wants and desires are important, then creativity shows up for her in a new way.  Do you find this to be true?

 

Maggie: Absolutely, Judith.  I get chills when you say a part of the person is left behind, because that’s exactly what happens.  We aren’t showing up as all of our beautiful, powerful selves, and that’s why many women experience sadness, restlessness or depression.  Part of who we are is being denied - not given a voice, and that voice is the voice of our spirit!

 

So, I agree that for many women expressing their creativity is deeply connected to their spirituality.  I’d like to share a powerful affirmation I learned in an advanced creativity coaching course I took with Eric Maisel, the “father” of creativity coaching in the US:  My creativity matters.  I expanded that to: I matter.  My creativity matters.  My coaching matters.

 

I wrote that almost every day for three months and it had a profound impact on how I valued my work - creatively or otherwise.

This also connects with one of my favourite quotes, which comes from Martha Graham, dancer and choreographer:

"There is a vitality, a life force, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and there is only one of you in all time. This expression is unique, and if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is, nor how it compares with other expression. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open." 

 

Can you imagine?  We have something valuable to offer and if we don’t put it out there, the world won’t have it!

Lastly, Judith, I want to tell your readers that expressing yourself creatively is actually another form of self-care.

 

Judith:  I love when you say “creativity is a form of self-care”.  I know when I take time for my own creativity it is as though I have had a very long and relaxing vacation.  Self-care is not the same as selfish.  So many women need to understand this.  Once it is truly understood and acted on, their life will change in magical ways.  You truly are a woman who inspires sustainable change and growth for women.  How has self-care impacted your own life Maggie?

 

Maggie:  Bottom line?  Self-care is what makes my busy and full life possible; it’s necessary for me to show up and be present in all my relationships.  I’ve learned through experience that I cannot genuinely give what I don’t have.  I absolutely know that I need to replenish the well - physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.

I have a daily spiritual practice and a daily creativity practice that are the foundations of the rest of my life.  When I engage in these practices, things seem to flow; I am more sure of the next “right” step.  I experience a sense of well-being which energizes and strengthens me, allowing me to show up in a very full, loving and real way in all the different relationships in my life.  If I don’t take care of myself, I can’t be there for those people I deeply care about - family, friends or clients.

 

If I don’t practice self-care by expressing my creativity, I have learned - again through experience  - then I’m not showing up authentically. Indeed, I’m leaving part of myself behind as you so beautifully stated.  That makes me sad, to be honest.  I write because it makes me feel alive and brings deep meaning to my life.

 

Judith:  I so agree with you Maggie. I also have my own spiritual practice that helps me to stay centered. It allows me to fill my own cup, so that I have more to give.  BUT I do need to find more creative time. You have inspired me to do that once again!  How easy it to get busy and leave important parts of ourselves behind.

 

What are you currently offering women who want to explore their creativity?

Maggie:  There’s a wonderful opportunity to “Inspire Creativity & Meet Your Muse” the weekend of April 17-19th.  I’m leading a retreat on the beautiful and inspiring coast of Maine. There are several places left, if people act quickly.  More details can be found on my website, www.thecelticmuse.com  

If any of your readers would like to come, I am happy to offer them a discount of $50 on that retreat.  They would need to email me and let me know they are followers of your blog.  Also, I have a 6 week tele-class  coming in May that will offer a supportive structure to explore and develop creativity.  Watch my website for that one, or sign up for my newsletter (at the website) where it will be announced.

 

Judith:  Thank you, Maggie, for your own wonderful, creative spirit that inspires so many!

 

Maggie:  Blessings to you, dear Judith.  The pleasure’s been mine.

Women Who Inspire Change: Becky's Interview

   Becky Hannah 

 Corporate Downsize

Adventure

 

Judith: Becky, welcome to my blog. I am excited to learn more about you.

Becky: I’m honored to be here. It’s my pleasure.

Judith: Becky, please tell my readers a little about you.

Becky: I’m just a woman you might find anywhere. Born and raised in the Midwest, recently relocated to Northeastern Georgia and happy to be reacquainted with my brother, his family and a few dear friends. I’m starting my own business and enjoying my new kitten.

Cleo                              

Judith: When you think about all of your life changes Becky, which one would you like to share with my readers?

Becky: The most dramatic change is my attitude toward my financial situation which has been quite recent. In a few short years, my income dropped to about a third of what it used to be. I still manage to have everything I need and I'm quite happy despite how it must look to someone looking at outer circumstances.

Judith: You said your income dropped to a third yet your dramatic change was around your attitude. Could you tell us a bit more about how all of this occurred and how your attitude was affected?

Becky: Sure. In retrospect, saying goodbye to 25+ years of corporate life was a blessing even though it truly sucked at the time. I’d been downsized 2 times before and never had a problem getting a job right away; it was a nice feeling to have a bit of freedom while I looked around. Months passed, the rejections kept coming, and then silence. I really had to take stock of my marketability and figure out how I could best make my way.

I've always known that abundance takes many forms other than money—health, relationships, self-love, for example. Once through my unemployment funds, it was clear that I couldn't keep it together on the home front and life as I knew it was coming to a rapid close. My brother kept me afloat with mortgage money when I was desperately short, but it was time to move or be moved.  I’m currently living with my brother and grateful for his support.

Judith: It sounds like you have a very generous brother. You talked about the many different forms of abundance. One you spoke about jumped out at me and that was self-love. Was this showing up for you at this time in your life?

Becky: Self-love was critical in seeing me through. The only thing showing up during this time was debt and despair. My girlfriends kept reminding me to spoil myself and to take care of me. I quickly realized my life wasn’t over and in many ways, just beginning. 

Soon afterward I knew that I didn't have to work for somebody else for money and resources to show up. In a time when my outer world was rapidly disintegrating, a new way of life and of thinking was unfolding. As for my brother, he’s just making up from all the times he tried to kill me growing up! Yes, I owe him big time, but he also knows I’d do the same if the situation was reversed.

Judith: When you say that self-love was critical in seeing you through it reminds me how when times are really tough people often do just the opposite.  They let the worry and turmoil absorb every waking hour. You must have been personally aware of how important self-care was to your well being. It sounds like you were using the law of attraction for resources and money to be showing up. Could you tell us a bit about how that occurred?

Becky: Thoughts are things, and self-love taught me to be mindful. I can’t help what comes into my head because I’m part of the cosmic soup of consciousness, but I can help what stays in. If I didn’t like the results, I kept refocusing on what I did want in my life. To be sure I had plenty of despair and tears, but I also experienced incredible joy and amazement.

I traveled to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Burning Man festival and Cabo San Lucas—and the only one I paid for was the Grand Canyon trip. I worked the Burning Man festival so I made money. I returned from Vegas with $1,000, the Grand Canyon with $500. My brother shared a bit of his Christmas bonus and passed along $1,000. All of these were gifts and one from a woman I’d never met before. Isn’t that incredible? None of these trips would’ve been possible if I was still working 8-5.

                                                                     Becky at Burning Man Festival

Judith: You opened yourself to what was possible and the love flowed in. Congratulations on such wonderful creating. You had shared with me that you had a good friend who was a coach that helped you through. Was that important to your ability to stay positive?

Becky: Absolutely. Having a coach to lean on and process with was key. If my arm was broken, I’d find the money to fix it. My life was breaking and my bag of tricks wasn’t working. Family and friends love me, but I needed objectivity and somebody skilled to lead me to my best answers. Besides, this economy as well as this time in history is bringing incredible challenges to everyone so getting another compass was crucial to me.

Judith: As many of my readers are facing tough times, just like yours, what would you most like to say to them?

Becky: It will be the best of times and the worst of times. Give yourself permission to grieve your losses but know there will also be tears of joy when you realize how free you really are. You may not believe it at the time, but I promise that the potentials waiting are amazing if you allow them in. Turn off the TV and take a walk. Embrace the change because it’s coming anyway. Find the gift.

Judith: Thank you so much Becky for modeling for us a courageous woman who has learned to allow life to unfold. I encourage all my readers to embrace their own change and be open to all that is possible!

Tell me a little about what you are doing now and how my readers can contact you.

Becky: I’m currently working part-time as a Virtual Assistant (website in process) while I develop an online class for women (The Authentic Goddess) as well as a fun book project with a few friends about an ethereal cat who guards the Atlantean Crystal Mines. I also write a semi-regular column for Spectrum of Light ezine http://lightworker.com/Spectrum/ and I wouldn’t have time for any of this if I was still in corporate! I can be reached at rhannah444@gmail.com

 "I think these difficult times have helped me to understand better than before how infinitely rich and beautiful life is in every way and that so many things that one goes around worrying about are of no importance whatsoever."

Isak Dinesen (1885 - 1962), Danish Author

Women Who Inspire Change: Laura's Interview

This is my first conversation in a series of interviews with……

"Women Who Inspire Change"

Right ~ Laura Ponticello with author Jeannie Ralston (middle) and book store owner, Erika L. Davis, at Laura's List Event where $2800 raised for Carol M Baldwin Breast Cancer Research.

My first guest is Laura Ponticello, inspirational speaker, columnist who pens real life stories about women, national book reviewer and publisher of Laura's List: Books for Women.

Judith: Laura, thank you for stopping by and letting all of us get to know you a little better.

Laura: Judith, I am honored to speak with you today and share more about Laura's List: Books for Women.

Judith: The first thing I am curious about is what inspired you to start your business?

Laura: The desire to help empower women in their everyday life. I surveyed 150 women about what inspires them each day and their reading trends, and overwhelmingly there was a validation that women could use a forum to nourish their mind, body and spirit-hence, the birth of Laura's List: Books for Women.

J: It sounds like empowering women is something you hold very dear. Is this something you have always been interested in?

L: Yes. My leadership background in running human resources prepared me well, where executive coaching was my niche. However, it was my grandmother, Rose, a breast cancer survivor, who taught me the power of spitting out pain as a new beginning for other women. She would talk in the night, to newly diagnosed women and tell them "they can do it." She serves as my inspiration for the mission of Laura's List.

J: How wonderful to have a remarkable grandmother like Rose. I’m sure her inspiration was a touchstone for many women. It is clear to see that your mission and your grandmother’s are interwoven. Outside of health issues, what are some of the biggest challenges you see women facing today?

L: The lack of giving one's self permission, to take time for self. Women juggle it all, and as a result, usually put themselves last. It's so important for a woman to carve out time to "be still", to nourish her mind, body and spirit. Even 15 minutes a day has proven health benefits.

J: Your message is so inspiring; even 15-minutes can change an old pattern leading into a lifetime of self care. When our cup is full we have more to give others.  What a powerful gift your message is!

Laura, on your website I saw where you want to inspire 1,000,000 women. How I can assist you in doing this?

L: Each and every woman has the ability to help me Sow Seeds of Hope by spreading the message of Laura's List- to inspire one million women. Laura's List events and product sales help support local nonprofit organizations that directly help women, like Vera House, www.verahouse.org

This month, Laura's List "Life is so Sweet Event" raised $450 for Vera House. Every time a woman attends an event or buys a Laura's List product (which encourages a woman to throw away her worries and Indulge in nourishing her mind, body and Spirit), 10% goes to a local charity. Products include heavenly hand creme, lavender handmade soap, lavender room spray, bath whip, lavender and vanilla bath fizzes and soon to be released an inspirational candle. Products can be purchased at Bijou Salon and Stella Maris gift shop in Skaneateles, NY or if out of town, email me at laurasbooklist@aol.com and I will ship to you!

J: Laura thank you so much for all you do for women and for giving all of us an opportunity to help you on your mission. Please come back to my blog and visit soon! 

 

 Women empowering women has the power to change the world!

Love Quotes to Inspire!

Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers.

Let the power of all kinds of love fill the air!

Send your mother a Valentine card, leave a bouquet of flowers on your assistant’s deck, or buy those cute heart shape dog treats for your best friend.

There is no end to the ways you can share Valentine’s Day with those you love.

I have gathered some love quotes to inspire your Valentine’s Day to be special.

“Do not think that love, in order to be genuine, has to be extraordinary. What we need is to love without getting tired.”

Mother Teresa

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”

Lao Tzu

“Love means not ever having to say you're sorry.”

Erich Segal

“What the world really needs is more love and less paper work.”

Pearl Bailey

“I like not only to be loved, but to be told I am loved.”

George Eliot

“The hours I spend with you I look upon as sort of a perfumed garden, a dim twilight, and a fountain singing to it. You and you alone make me feel that I am alive. Other men it is said have seen angels, but I have seen thee and thou art enough.”

George Edward Moore

“We waste time looking for the perfect lover, instead of creating the perfect love.” 

Tom Robbins

“You cannot be lonely if you like the person you're alone with.”

Wayne Dyer

“Do all things with love.”

Og Mandino

“The moment you have in your heart this extraordinary thing called love and feel the depth, the delight, the ecstasy of it, you will discover that for you the world is transformed.”

Jiddu Krishnamurti

“Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence.”

H. L. Mencken

Have a Happy Heart Day as you share your love, whether it is with a person, pet, God or Nature. It is all love!

I want to share a quote here from my mother, something she told me on her death bed.

“It doesn’t matter who or what you love. It only matters that you can love.” 

Helen Gardner

She loved better than anyone I know. These quotes are dedicated to her memory and the gift of love she taught me!

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY from Coach Judith