I’ve Never Been to ME

money, wealth, friiends, family, health, career

When you think of a relationship do you think of the connection you have with your family, friends, money, co-workers and neighbors? Of course you do. But wait, don't you also want to think about the loving healthy relationship you have with yourself? You do have a healthy, loving relationship with yourself, don't you? Or what about the relationship you have with money, your emotional well being, your integrity and your values? One of my favorite songs is "I've Never Been to Me" by Nancy Wilson. In the song, she sings about meeting kings, queens and all the dreams she's deferred but never been free to be herself. At least that's my take on the song. A lot of people have the trappings of what society tells us is a successful … [Read more...]

What Are You Running From?

Running of the Bulls

Some of us run to compete in marathons, some of us run fast to keep up with the latest gadgets and newest social phenomena. Others run fast to get away from a ferocious bull whose chief goal is to thrust his sharp horns into your back. I recently came across an article about the dangerous, and for some, exhilarating sport of running with bulls. While some consider it a sport, animal rights activists call it cruel and dangerous.  Still, bull runs attract thousands of participants and spectators every year. Every year since the 13th century during the San Fermin Festival, in Palmona, Spain, thousands of veterans and tourists flock to the annual running of the bulls. Although, it seems to me the people running are trying their best to … [Read more...]

Your Boundary is Your Invisible Self-Monitoring Tool

time management

There are a variety of tools available to keep you on track such as budgets, time management, journals and vision boards. And, like the other tools you avail yourself of to stay on track and reach your goals, you can also use your invisible self-monitoring tool to create strong boundaries that protect you from time stealers, energy drainers and negativity. I’m sure you wouldn’t allow guests in your home to trample on your furniture, paint on your walls or deface your property in some other way. Yet, many times, we unwittingly invite people to disrespect our boundaries by leaving a trail of negativity in their wake. For example: The “friend” who does not listen to you or value your opinions People who infringe on your … [Read more...]

Risk Taking Can Be the Spark That Gets You Moving

10-29-10 Sea Trek14

When you think of risk, what comes to mind? Do you have visions of Evil Knievel leaping across Snake River Canyon, someone engaged in hazardous, intense, and foolish actions or do you think of risk taking as an exhilarating, breathtaking and awe-inspiring experience? Of course, risk can be all those things and more. But it's really about having the courage to make a decision to experience life fully without fear and limitations.  It can also mean that sometimes you just have to take advantage of  that once in a lifetime opportunity without limiting yourself by fear. I took that once in a lifetime opportunity when I signed up for the sea trek excursion while on a recent cruise. If you're not familiar with a sea trek, … [Read more...]

Put Multitasking on Hold

Woman juggling tasks

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about how I can put multitasking on hold mostly when I'm on a call and another is waiting or I glance at my computer screen and see I am working in several windows simultaneously. Multitasking can easily become a big part of our lives especially now with the busy holiday season fast approaching.  And, all of this multitasking starts to make me feel like I'm on an out of control roller coaster wishing someone would put on the brakes.  Like most women, I find myself occasionally deep in the throes of multitasking and busyness. But, when I can slow down long enough to allow myself some breathing space, I realize that in addition to all the appointments, household chores, social commitments, and other … [Read more...]

Choose Your Words Carefully – Use Empowering Words

13 Caution

Choose your words carefully and make your wishes known by using empowering words such as I choose to/not to or I will/won't.  Disempowering words like "I/you can't, "I/you have to", and "I/you should", send the message that you easily give away your power or you’re attempting to disempower someone else with misguided expectations. For example, every time I find myself saying  “I should”, I ask myself am I responding to my wishes or someone else's.  This is the formula I use: Is it good for me? Is it good for them? Do I want to do it If it's not something you really want to do or you're considering doing it because you want to please or you're looking to get validation or acceptance, then you are responding to an … [Read more...]

What Are You Tolerating Today That Could Free You to Live Authentically?

In my work, I talk to many women who are convinced that their lot in life has been cast. Whatever circumstance they find themselves in, they have deluded themselves into believing that the situation can’t change for them and struggle to make sense of the choices they have made. One woman in an intolerable relationship felt that she had made a commitment and no matter what, she would “stick it out”. Another woman I know decided long ago that her life was dictated by the circumstances of her upbringing and continued to relinquish her power to her family. Commitment and a sense of responsibility is a wonderful attribute, however, when loyalty binds you to intolerable situations, it’s time to refocus. I once heard someone say, … [Read more...]