EDITOR S NOTE
Welcome to the July 2024 issue of Speak Woman! I am thrilled to introduce you to our Cover Girl, Biljana Čenić from Slovenia, Europe. Biljana’s story is a testament to resilience. After enduring workplace bullying, she transformed her pain into purpose, becoming a passionate mental health advocate. Through her YouTube channel, she shares her journey and helps others find courage.
In this issue; "Power Posture: How Posture Affects Confidence" explores the profound impact of body language on self-assurance and success. Feeling stuck?
"RESTART: Tips To Help You Get Out OfA Rut" offers tips to reignite passion. We also discuss the "Strength In Unity: The Power ofAgreement," highlighting the incredible potential that lies in collaboration and mutual support.
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Continued Blessings,
Shanda Campbell, Editor-At
-Large
Speak Woman Magazine strives to publish correct and accurate information. We do not accept liability for any inaccuracies. The views expressed in published articles are that of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Speak Woman. Actions based on information in Speak Woman are at your own risk. Reproduction of any part of this publication without prior written consent is prohibited. Trademark Property of Speak Woman Magazine, LLC ~ Publisher: Speak Woman Magazine, LLC
POWER POSTURE
Posture is more than just a physical stance; it is a powerful, non verbal communicator that reflects and shapes our inner confidence. Whether in personal interactions or professional settings, our posture can significantly impact our confidence and how others perceive us.
So, what’s the connection between posture and confidence?
The Science Behind Power Posture
The Impact of Poor Posture
Numerous studies have found that improving posture can lead to increased testosterone levels (associated with confidence) and decreased cortisol levels (associated with stress). This means that by simply adjusting how we stand or sit, we can influence our mood, confidence, and overall psychological state. Our bodies and minds are interconnected in ways that allow us to use physical adjustments to foster positive mental outcomes.
Improving Your Posture
Conversely, poor posture can negatively affect both our health and our self esteem. Slouching, hunching over, or crossing our arms can send signals to our brain that we are insecure, anxious, or defensive. This not only affects how we feel about ourselves but also how others perceive us. In professional settings, poor posture can undermine our authority and credibility, making us appear less competent and confident.
Improving your posture requires awareness and consistent practice. Here are some tips to help you cultivate a powerful posture:
3. OpenYour Chest: Avoid hunching over by opening your chest and keeping your shoulders relaxed and back. This improves posture and breathing.
1. Stand Tall: Imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head. Keep your shoulders back and down and align your ears with your shoulders and hips. This stance communicates confidence and readiness.
4. Mind Your Sitting Posture: When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor, your back straight. Use seating that supports the natural curve of your spine.
2. Engage Your Core: A strong core supports good posture. Engage your abdominal muscles when standing or sitting to maintain a neutral spine position.
5. Regular Stretching: Incorporate regular stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine to improve flexibility and muscle balance, which are crucial for maintaining good posture.
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Tips To Help You Get Out of ARut
Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us, leaving us feeling stuck, unmotivated, and in a rut. Whether it's personal struggles, professional stagnation, or just the daily grind, it's important to know that you're not alone and that there are ways to break free and restart your journey with renewed vigor. Here are our tips to help you get out of a rut and reignite your life!
5. Seek Inspiration
Seek positive influences that encourage growth and new ways of thinking.
6. Set Boundaries
Learn to say no to things that drain you and yes to activities that align with your goals and values.
7. Seek Support
goals can make a big difference. Each victory boosts confidence and create a sense of progress.
3. Change The Routine
Try changing your workspace or introducing new activities into your day. Small changes can help refresh your mindset and break the monotony.
4. Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care helps replenish your energy and restores your passion.
Talking to someone you trust provides new insights. Sometimes, an outside perspective helps us see things clearly and find a solution.
8. Embrace Failure
Remember, every great achievement comes with its share of failures.
9. TakeAction
Take action! Baby steps count. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start where you are, with what you have.
Strength In Unity
In today’s world the power of unity and agreement can sometimes be underestimated. Yet, history and experience have shown us that when women come together, their collective strength is unmatched. At the heart of this unity lies the law of agreement a principle that magnifies the impact of shared goals, values, and commitments.
The Essence ofAgreement: Agreement goes beyond mere consensus. It’s about aligning hearts, minds, and actions towards a common purpose. When women agree on a vision or a goal, we create a powerful synergy that amplifies our efforts. This unity leads to monumental changes in personal growth, professional achievements, or societal advancements.
The Power ofAgreement
The law of agreement states that when two or more people agree on a particular matter, their collective intention and effort create a force that can manifest remarkable outcomes. Here’s how the power of agreement can be activated among women:
1. Collective Intention - Setting a collective intention creates a unified energy that propels us towards our goals.
2. Unified Action - Agreement leads to unified action. Combined efforts are more effective than our individual endeavors.
3. Shared Responsibility - Women who agree to work together take collective ownership, ensuring that everyone is committed to the success of the endeavor.
4. Amplified Impact - When women align resources, skills, and passions, we can achieve results that would be impossible to attain alone.
5. Strength in Numbers - When women come together in agreement, we create a powerful force that can challenge norms, influence policies, and drive societal change.
This collective strength is a testament to the strength In Unity!
Mental Health & The Workplace
Biljana Čenić
Biljana s Journey of Advocacy & Vulnerability
Biljana Čenić from Slovenia, Europe, is a professional with over a decade of experience in HR planning, development, and management. Biljana ensures a safe and compliant work environment, solidifying her reputation as an HR powerhouse. Beyond her professional achievements, Biljana is a passionate advocate for mental health. Her YouTube channel documents her reported 20-year journey of healing after experiencing workplace bullying, which caused severe mental and physical health issues. Biljana continues to prioritize her health and now shares her story to help others overcome similar challenges. On her YouTube channel, she provides a look into the highs and lows of living with an anxiety disorder, striving to dismantle stigma, foster understanding, and build a supportive community. Her mission is to embrace the beauty of vulnerability and the strength found in solidarity.
HER STORY
I've faced challenges in the workplace that have significantly impacted mymental and physical health. One instance was managing an exceptionally heavy workload due to staffing shortages. Working long hours under constant pressure led to chronic stress, affecting me both mentally and physically.
Mentally, I experienced heightened anxiety and found it difficult to switch off from work even during my off-hours. I became irritable and had trouble concentrating. Physically, the stress manifested as frequent tension headaches and disrupted sleep patterns, leading to overall fatigue.
Another challenge was navigating organizational restructuring, which created uncertainty about job responsibilities. This heightened my stress levels, causing constant worry about the future and a feeling of powerlessness. Additionally, conflicts with colleagues created a tense atmosphere and stress.
These experiences taught me the importance of boundaries, support from colleagues and supervisors, and prioritizing self-care. I learned to recognize early signs of stress and developed strategies to manage it. These experiences have helped me become more resilient and proactive in maintaining my mental and physical well-being in challenging work environments.
What Is Empowerment?
As a leader, empowerment means providing my team with boundaries within which to operate.
How can sharing stories impact awareness & reduce stigma?
When I share my experiences with mental health, it helps others see that they're not alone in their struggles, providing comfort and validation for those who might feel isolated or misunderstood. Personal stories make mental health issues more relatable and less abstract. Hearing about someone's real-life experiences can break down misconceptions and stereotypes, making it easier for people to empathize and understand. It’s one thing to read about symptoms in a textbook, but it's entirely different to hear a heartfelt account of someone’s journey.
By opening up about my challenges, I encourage others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that fosters a community where people feel safe to discuss their mental health without fear of judgment. Sharing stories also highlights the importance of seeking help and the positive outcomes that can come from it. When I talk about the benefits of therapy or other support systems, it can inspire someone else to take that crucial first step toward getting the help they need. Overall, personal stories have the power to educate, connect, and inspire. They humanize mental health issues and play a crucial role in breaking down stigma. By sharing we can create a more compassionate and understanding world.
What’s your advice for people struggling with mental health issues?
• Seeking professional help is crucial.
• Building a strong support network is essential.
• Be kind to yourself!
• Explore healthy coping mechanisms that work for you.
• Educate yourself about your specific mental health condition
• Set realistic goals and celebrate every achievement.
• Stay connected with others, even when you may not feel like it.
• Be patient with yourself.
What’s Next?
Looking forward, I envision participating in local mental health awareness events, where I can share my story and provide resources to those in need. By speaking openly about my journey, I hope to inspire others to seek help and break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Another aspect of my plans is leveraging digital platforms to reach a broader audience. Whether through myYouTube channel, blog, podcast, or social media engagement, I aim to create content that educates, empowers, and encourages conversations about mental well-being.
Ultimately, my mission is to contribute to a society where mental health is prioritized, understood, and supported without judgment or stigma. Through proactive advocacy, community engagement, and ongoing personal growth, I am dedicated to making a positive impact and helping others find hope and resilience.