OVERCOMING PERSONAL
CHALLENGES to pursue life with passion and purpose
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contributors ALYSSA MARTIN www.alyssamartin.com
SHARON CHISOLM www.sharonchisholm.com.au
TRUDY SIMMONS www.thedaisychaingroup.com.au
CASS LANE www.wildspirit.co
CLARE DESIRA www.topfivemovement.com
KATHERINE MACKENZIE-SMITH www.katherinemackenziesmith.com
JARKA KUNOVA www.designedbylife.com.au
FRONT COVER Photography by Renee Shea • Branding Photographer www.reneeshea.com.au
All rights reserved ©ROOOAR Magazine 2016 2
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from the editor
HOLA BOSS-LADIES I have been super busy since the last issue of ROOOAR. I have been working on the ROOOAR Podcast which you can now listen to here and I hosted the first ever ROOOAR Retreat in Byron Bay. Considering I am an introvert, I get around, right? The retreat, absolutely exceeded my expectations and you can see some pics in this issue. It was 4 glorious days by the beach filled with learning, laughter & connecting with like-minded ladies. It was amazing. This issue of the magazine is all about MINDSET and there is no one more perfect to feature on the cover than Lisa Cox. I met Lisa about a year ago and since then I can honestly say she is my hero and I have no doubt she will be yours too when you read her story.
DR E A M BIG & ROOOA R!
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CONTENTS 20
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SELF-PROMOTION
Alyssa Martin
SLEEP + ENTREPRENEURS Sharon Chisolm
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LISA COX Q& A KILLER BOSS LADIES
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S I LE N CE YO U R M E A N G I R L
Anna Dower
B E YO U Trudy Simmons
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34
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HUSTLE & HEART
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REJECTION
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P R O C R A S T I N AT I O N
Cassandra Lane
Clare Desira
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QUIET ACHIE VER K atherine Mackenzie-Smith
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FE AR OR GROW TH J arka Kunova
In early September we hosted our very first ROOOAR retreat in Byron Bay. The event was SOLD OUT and consisted of 25 female entrepreneurs from all over Australia spending 4 days together, learning, laughing & connecting. We had a line-up of amazing speakers and treated our guests to massages, psychic readings and professional headshot photography sessions. PHOTOGRAPHY BY RENEE SHEA • BRANDING PHOTOGRAPHER
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“This retreat was just what I needed! Being part of a strong online community is one of the best things you can do for you and your business. But connections are made even stronger when you get to meet with people in real life. Anna created an event that was inspiring, exciting and a whole lot of fun. She allowed us to realise we’re all in this together and that women who work together can do so much more. Can’t wait for the next one!
”
NATASHA VANZETTI • www.natashavanzetti.com
“I was very excited when I booked my ticket for the Roooar Retreat and I had very high expectations. The retreat fulfilled all my expectations and more. Anna had gone to so much trouble to ensure that the accommodation was first class, that the presenters were skilled and knowledgeable and that we were treated like VIP’s. We had the most beautiful gift packs, received massages, tarot readings and the most stunning professional head shots taken. On top of all this, the mixture of fabulous and talented entrepreneurs from around Australia was absolutely incredible. The most enjoyable few days I have had for a long time.
”
SHARON CHISOLM • www.yourmindhealthmatters.com
“I love the power of women and especially when they come together as a community. Being an entrepreneur can be a lonely ride and its imperative to the success of any business that the driver, us,is being cared for first. Part of this self care is time out to reflect and be nurtured. The ROOOAR retreat provided connection with amazing women. We were pampered with massages and treatments whilst gaining new business learnings, all in beautiful luxury accommodation. I now have a new family to support me on my journey and I cannot wait to the next retreat. Thank you Anna Dower for creating this!
” KATHY WONG • www.moeloco.com
JOIN THE WAITLIST FOR OUR NEXT ROOOAR RETREAT IN 2017 HERE! 7
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the mindset warrior Q&A LISA COX W W W.LISACOX .CO
“I set my tolerance for bullshit exceptionally low and know that perfection is an illusion.”
Tell us about your story. There’s my professional story
2 books published and have written for national and
and my personal story. You can’t really put one into
international media. I also contribute regularly to sites
context without first understanding the other. It’s a
like The Huffington Post and others.
combination of big dreams and big challenges. So that’s a little bit of my story and today, I’m working I’ve wanted to be a Writer since I was really young. I went
on the spectrum somewhere between a strategic
to Uni, got my degrees and moved interstate to begin
corporate type and a soulful creative type with lots of
climbing the corporate ladder in advertising agencies. I
crazy in between!
had my dream writing jobs, promotions and awards. So My business is called Muse Management and apart from
generally speaking, life was sweet.
writing (including freelance copywriting and blogging), I’m also a Speaker, Health Coach and consult to different
But then it all turned very sour, very quickly.
hospitals and healthcare providers. In 2005 an infection cased my brain to haemorrhage unexpectedly. I spent 3 weeks in a coma, 2 months
Additionally, I’m a national Brain Health Ambassador for
on life support and over a year in hospital (the first of
Synapse (The Brain Injury Association). Immense passion
many times). So far I’ve had close to 20 operations and
drives me to empower women to take responsibility for
procedures, including the amputation of my left leg,
their own physical and mental well-being. So much of
right toes and 9 fingertips. Heart surgery twice and a
that begins with the right mindset.
total hip replacement. My mission (in its simplest form) is to create change in Because of my permanent brain damage I’m over 25%
the way women feel about themselves and their world.
blind, suffer from epilepsy, nerve pain, fatigue and poor
My work breaks down stereotypes and lifts the veil of
memory. I also now have the concentration of a two
perfection that distorts the real beauty of life.
year-old! What’s your background - My background is in corporate I had to start from scratch and completely rebuild
communications and media - specifically advertising
my personal and professional life. I had no job, no
copywriting. I learnt the ropes in advertising agencies
apartment and all the ‘tools of my trade’ (as a writer) had
around Australia working with national and international
been permanently messed up (eyes, hands and brain
clients on a wide variety of mediums including print,
function). I couldn’t even sit up and hold a pen, let alone
radio and television (the social media scene was yet to
see what I was doing.
explode).
When I left hospital I moved back in with my parents
As anyone with a communications background will
so they could care for me. Previously, I’d been fiercely
know, it’s very broad and can include everything from
independent but now basic tasks were a challenge.
marketing, branding, styling, art direction, strategy,
Starting a business was the furthest thing from my mind
writing and public relations.
as I returned to hospital multiple times for more surgery. The broad skillset really helped when I had to reinvent As I got used to life with my disabilities, one of the first
my career. I’ve drawn on each of those skills (and more)
(and best) things I did was buy myself a little laptop.
over the years in re-established myself and my work.
Every day I slowly taught myself to type again with my new hands (minus 9 fingertips). Since then I’ve had 9
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What’s one thing we should know about you? When I
I’m wary of the term ‘work life balance’ because there
see you for the umpteenth time (or even the second
is no single right or wrong way to work/live – so long as
time), please don’t be offended if I can’t recognise your
it works for you. But I do try to keep things in check like
or remember your name. If I look like I’m ignoring you,
the amount of quality time I spend with people in real
I’m not – I just can’t see you properly and my memory is
life as opposed to the amount of time I spend on social
cactus! It’s not you, it’s me
media.
I’m easier to recognise because I’m usually the only one
Other ways I keep a positive mindset include:
in a wheelchair. I’ve been embarrassed so many times when someone remembers my name but I have no idea
• Don’t be too hard on yourself if you have a shitty
who they are. Apologies in advance!
day. It happens to everyone and tomorrow (or even
later today) is a clean slate.
How do you keep a positive mindset? I set my tolerance for bullshit exceptionally low and know that perfection
• Don’t waste time and energy with toxic relationships
is an illusion.
Further to that, I take a really integrative approach to
What has been your proudest achievement in your
keeping a positive mindset and know that it’s not just one
business to date? Awards, media and contracts are all
thing. Everything including the food I eat, the movement
good and well but some of my proudest achievements
I do and the people I see impacts my positivity.
in the work I do happen behind-the-scenes. Emails
– either personal or professional.
from strangers (sometimes on the other side of the 10
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world) to let me know that something I said or wrote has positively changed the way they think about themselves or their life. I’m really proud to know that my work makes a positive difference for others. What goals are you working towards? More of the same! 2016 has been a great year but in 2017 I’m working towards more collaborations and connections with like-minded people/brands. I have some bigger writing projects on the go but, like most things these days, I’ll just take it at my own pace. What’s the hardest thing about what you do? Limitations related to my disabilities are always hard but aside from that stuff, I really suck at self-promotion. It’s definitely the hardest thing for me to get comfortable with and it’s so much easier when I’m promoting someone else or another brand/business. I’m proud of what I do and know that it can help (and has helped) other people so the extroverted me just wants to share and publish EVERYTHING. But the introverted me isn’t so keen on being in the spotlight and would much rather just hang-out with my nieces and nephews. What has been your biggest lesson in business? My biggest lesson was when I tried to do everything myself. It was a disaster! Definitely outsource your weaknesses. You’re better off doing a couple of things (or even one thing) really well than doing a lot of things poorly. had taken away so much but nothing could take away It’s important to me that I put my real self onto the
my passion for writing.
page/screen so I write all my own content. But anything I made the mistake that a lot of people do (after acquiring
technical gets outsourced.
disabilities) and tried to return to the pace and speed If you could rewind 10 years, what would you tell
of my ‘old life’ without really acknowledging my new
yourself? I’d tell myself to keep being ambitious but
limitations.
remember to be realistic about the doing part. I think my ambition coupled with naivety had its 10 years ago I’d just come out of hospital and was
advantages (I wrote 2 books and had them published for
teaching myself how to type again. Illness and surgeons
example) but I lost a lot of sleep in the process.
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Who are your biggest heroes? There are lots of people
Finish these sentences...
I look up to both personally and professionally but surgeons are my heroes. In particular, Charlie Teo
I find simple joy in...
(an Australian Neurosurgeon) so it’s fitting that this
sitting with my husband on our balcony with a cup of
question be asked in a ‘Mindset’ interview
coffee. They’re two of my favourite things that bring joy to my world!
Charlie has never been one of my surgeons but interviews with him bring me to tears and his mindset is
My current mantra is...
extremely admirable.
“Progress is better than perfection”
To be honest, I put anyone working in healthcare,
If I could give my fellow biz warriors one piece of
including medical researchers, on the very highest of
wisdom about mindset, it would be….
pedestals.
My advice would be to continue aiming high and thinking big but if all of that gets overwhelming,
Further to that, everyday Australian blood donors are
remember to start small and fearlessly embrace
my heroes for saving my life! Here’s an open letter I
failure in the process. No business is perfect - There
wrote to my blood donors for The Huffington Post
will be bad days and that’s ok. You may not be able
Australia. Link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/lisa-
to control the situation but you always have control
cox/thanks-for-saving-my-life-whoever-you-are/
over your mindset, your attitude and how you choose to deal with it.
Bianca’s photograpy by: Stephanie Reiter http://www.totalcapture.com.au
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Because it's not just a cup of Tea
"I've designed these teas for all women who understand the importance of taking time out for themselves" Dee Harvey Naturopath
www.inspiredhealthbydee.com 13
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KILLER-BOSS-LADIES These ladies are killing it in their field. You should probably know who they are.
J O I N TH E S E K I LLE R B OS S - L A D I E S A N D M A N Y M O R E I N TH E D R E A M B I G CO M M U N IT Y H E R E .
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LEESA BARR MAKE-UP DESIGNER W W W.LEESABARR.COM. AU
WHAT DO YOU DO? We are passionate about making life easier! Creating confidence which is effortless and chic. HOW DID YOU START? Makeup Designing started as a side line hobby to complement work as a Hairdresser and Makeup Artist which has evolved into a full blown passion. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED? To recognise what you fear and conquer it. Ask for help if you need it. You will surprised where help will come from. You just need to be brave enough to ask. WHAT RESOURCE CAN YOUR BUSINESS NOT LIVE WITHOUT? Social Media it is a fabulous port hole for many things. IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOURSELF? Be open minded, listen to advice, never stop learning, be patient don’t take short cuts. Believe in yourself.
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JO FISHER
COUR SE CRE ATOR W W W.POPWITHJO.COM
WHAT DO YOU DO? I create and develop unique and effective online courses and programs that are engaging, personalised and get the participants the results they signed up for. I am all about collaboration – I think we all do our best work when we collaborate with the right people with the right expertise. My aim is to produce quality, high-end learning experiences that make their creator proud to put out into the world. HOW DID YOU START? POP with Jo is the culmination of a 15year career that took me around the world, working behind the camera in Production on high-end TV commercials for the world’s biggest brands. Locations, wild animals, helicopters, plenty of schmoozing and spending long hours with the most incredible and creative people were all part of the job. It was exciting, hard work and a whole lotta of fun. After retraining as a Neuroleadership Coach 5 years ago, I now combine my creative industry experience with brain-based techniques to create engaging and effective learning experiences that clients love and can get real results from. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED? Always back yourself (otherwise who will?), but also just as important is to have a team of faithful supporters to catch you when you fall, push you when you need it, make you laugh when times are tough and enjoy the sweet moments over a glass of wine. IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOURSELF? Believe you can and you will. 16
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JARK A KUNOVA BUSINESS COACH W W W.DESIGNEDBYLIFE.COM. AU
WHAT DO YOU DO? As a Coach, I am passionate about supporting people who want to find their true purpose in life. I believe each person has been designed by life to think, feel and create in a unique way however not everybody is courageous enough to explore their path. Through my intuitive coaching, I help people tap into their potential and formulate meaningful goals that nurture a healthy mindset and abundant lifestyles. HOW DID YOU START? It all started with a blog that saw me revisit one of my passions: writing. Designed by life honoured the honesty and integrity of my soul through words and articles that also spoke to others online. It was the channel I used for self discovery and for finding the way back to myself after spending more than 15 years in the corporate world. My words essentially found my tribe and my supporters. At the time I still struggled with limiting beliefs and feared stepping into my potential. What the heck, I didn’t even know what my calling was… As I came to find out, I wasn’t alone. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED? That showing up as yourself every single damn day is the bravest thing you’ll ever do in life. That honouring your intuition isn’t a weakness – it is the strength that sets you apart from ‘vanilla’. That creating from the depths of your heart and soul in your unique way is what keeps you connected to yourself, which is the only skill you need for living an abundant life. Everything else flows from here…
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natural beauty with natural skincare www.romeoandmadden.com 18
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L IST E N NOW ON ITUN ES & JAC K RABBI T F M #R OO OARP O DC AST
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3 MINDSET SHIFTS ABOUT SELF-PROMOTION SO YOU CAN STOP PL AYING SMALL B Y A LY S S A M A R T I N W W W. A LY S S A M A R T I N . C O M
Shying away from self promotion is just one way we
judgment or not being good enough. You’re not
stop ourselves from stepping into our best, most
naturally afraid of self promotion; you’re really afraid
powerful, most purpose-filled selves.
that if you promote yourself and it doesn’t go well, that will prove that your real fear is true.
It’s true that self promotion has a bad wrap as a self centered, egotistical activity. But the good news is
Your fear of self promotion also masks you. It stops
that it can be, feel & look like whatever you want it
you from telling people that your work is game-
to. Much like you can run your own business however
changing & that they should & can hire you. It stops
you want, you can promote yourself in whatever way
you from putting yourself out there where you can
feels good to both you & your audience.
make a difference. It’s holding you back. It’s stopping you from getting your work into the hands of the
Self promotion that feels authentic & self promotion
people who need it most.
that actually works don’t have to be mutually exclusive. You just need to change how you see self
Ask yourself: What am I really afraid of here? What’s
promotion so that you can feel more comfortable
the worst thing that can happen if I promote myself?
doing it.
What’s the best thing that can happen if I promote myself?
These 3 mindset shifts are designed to help you see your self promotion in a whole new light and inspire
Authentic self-promotion does exist. We cringe at
you to put yourself out there with pride.
the thought of self promotion because of all those pushy salespeople we’ve had to deal with over the
Fear of self promotion is a mask. Your fear of self
years. We have dozens more examples of slimy self
promotion is masking your real fear – whatever
promotion than we have of positive, empowering self
that is for you, whether it’s fear of success, failure,
promotion.
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fear of self-promotion also masks you. It stops you from telling people that your work is game-changing & that they should & can hire you.
You can picture the kind of person that you do NOT
brag.” But self-promotion is only egotistical if you’re
want to be when you’re promoting yourself. But do
only focused on what it can do for you, instead of how it
you know whom you DO want to model your self-
benefits the people you want to serve.
promotional behaviours after? If you don’t promote yourself & land that new client, Finding someone that can role model the style and
then you can’t help her change her life or business for
values you want to convey when you’re advocating
the better.
for your work can be liberating. It proves to you that self promotion can be done with heart and sincerity.
Let that free you. Let it remind you of why you do what you do and what a positive impact your work makes on
The best part is that the more you look for role
your community. It means that you can focus on why
models of authentic self promotion, the more
you do what you do and still feel authentic, honest and
positive examples you find. It’s liberating. It helps
successful while actively promoting yourself.
dispel the myth that all self promotion is sleazy and Ask yourself: How will self promotion help me make a
self centered.
dent in the Universe? How will my contribution to my Ask yourself: What if self promotion really came
community increase if I promote myself?
down to believing in my work, trusting that it can help people & being brave enough to say that out
These 3 mindset shifts free you from the shame often
loud? Who are my role models for honest, authentic
associated with self promotion. They free you to
self promotion?
embrace the meaningful work you do and share that work in a loud, proud voice. Once the importance of
Self promotion increases your impact. One of
your work is clear, there’s nothing to do but take a deep
the most common things I hear from people who
breath, put yourself out there and play a bigger game.
are resistant to self promotion is, “I don’t want to
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SLEEP & THE ENTREPRENEUR BY SHARON CHISOLM W W W.SHARONCHISHOLM.COM. AU
As an entrepreneur we often put self-care at the bottom of our list and one of the things that can affect us dramatically is sleep, or rather lack of it. Many of us will already know that sleep deprivation is used as a form of torture, but how can it affect us in our day to day lives and why is getting enough quality sleep so important? Lack of sleep affects us both mentally and physically in the following ways: It mentally reduces our: • Cognitive ability which affects our productivity
and concentration,
• Creativity (do your best ideas come first thing in
the morning?),
• Learning capabilities (memories are strengthened
during sleep),
• Emotional control, which can make us tearful
and irritable.
Lack of sleep can also lead to lower motivation and an increased risk of developing anxiety and depression. So how can we develop good sleep habits moving forward? Here are some tips and tricks..... 22
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1. Develop a regular sleep schedule which ensures at least 7 or 8 hours sleep. Of course we are all different and some people may only need 6 hours whilst others need 10. 2. Exercise or physical activity is believed to be a fantastic contributing factor to having health sleep patterns. 3. Turn off all devices at least an hour before TV (yes, this does include the TV). Playing solitaire or Candy Crush Saga whilst you lie in bed might feel relaxing, but the blue light from your device disrupts your brain’s natural sleep/wake cycle as it affects the levels of melatonin, the sleep-inducing hormone. 4. Limit caffeine and alcohol before bed. I find that drinking caffeinated tea or coffee after about 11am, dramatically affects my ability to stay asleep the whole night. 5. Limit your sugar and food intake after 7pm. If you have a large meal or are snacking late into the night, this gives your body more work to do as you sleep, which can not only mean that you do not sleep as soundly, but it may also affect the other areas of your body that benefit from sleep. 6. Ensure your bed and room are conducive to a good night’s sleep – this may mean you need to upgrade your mattress, or buy new pillows, but the benefits greatly outweigh the financial cost. 7. Check the temperature and air flow in your room. Experts believe that the ideal room temperature for a good night’s sleep is between 15.5 and 19.5 degrees Celsius (or 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit). 8. Keep a list – Write down everything that is on your mind and mentally let go of it until morning – easier said than done I know, but the more you practice, the easier it gets. Good night and sleep tight. 23
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C R E AT E R E A L C H A N G E
TH E L I B R A RY I S A COL L EC T I ON O F W E BIN A R S , TU TO R IA L S , AC TIV I T IE S AND WO R KS H E ETS TO HEL P PASS IO N ATE A N D E XP E R I E N C E D P R O F E SS IO NALS SYST E MI S E T HEI R EX P ERT I S E IN TO Q UA L I T Y L E A R N IN G E XP E R I E N C ES.
Want to take your copywriting business to the next level?
Join Australia’s thriving copywriter community, with courses, resources, coaching and more www.copywritingschool.com.au 24 ROOOAR.COM.AU
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Google love ?
Get to grips with Search Engine Optimisation with easy to understand, fun, courses, webinars and a FREE Facebook Group. Join Australia’s thriving copywriter community, with courses, resources, coaching and more
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HOW TO S ILEN CE YOUR INNER ME AN G IRL BY ANNA DOWER W W W. ANNADOWER .COM
Maybe you’ve experienced this phenomenon too? Seesawing between confident optimism and anxious doubt in an attempt to build the business of your dreams?
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I’ve always thought that being a solopreneur (solo
2. Talk it out with your peeps (the ones that know you
entrepreneur) was similar to leading a double life,
ain’t crazee). Feeling a little vulnerable? It’s okay, we’ve all
complete with its own aggravating alter ego.
been there. And it’s during these times that having a circle of peeps who know just what to say to make you feel better
By day, I’m an eye-on-the-prize boss lady who wheels,
(and get you back on your feet) works wonders. My advice?
deals, hustles and works hard to get it done and make a
Choose to surround yourself with people you respect and
success of herself and her business. This woman is fierce,
admire. If you aren’t proud that they’re your friend, they’re
strong and a force to be reckoned with.
probably not somebody you want in your life.
But by night, once the dust has settles, somebody new (and
3. Question the validity of your thoughts. It sounds
decidedly unwelcome) seems to take over.
counterintuitive, but sometimes the best thing you can
“Can you sustain this success?” the newcomer whispers.
yourself. Which, I admit, feels a little ridiculous because you’re already questioning yourself. But instead of doubting
“Are you really making enough money?” she probes.
your skills, doubt whether your thoughts are revealing the
“Do you think you’re good enough to run a successful business?” she demands.
full story. Are they true? Real? Or are they an exaggeration of your emotions and anxiety? Dive in and don’t be afraid to have a mental argument with yourself.
This woman, besides being a bit of an a-hole, is not somebody I want to hang around with for a long period of time. Or, you know, at all. She’s nervous, agitated, anxious and doubts her abilities. She’s my inner-mean-girl.
4. Write it out. When you can’t sort out which are the real you thoughts and which are being sent out by your inner-mean-girl, spend ten minutes or so writing it down. Sometimes I don’t know what I’m thinking until it’s out on
Maybe you’ve experienced this phenomenon too? Seesawing between confident optimism and anxious doubt in an attempt to build the business of your dreams? Half of you says, “I’ve got this” while the other half raises an eyebrow and replies, “Really?” But from my years (and years … and years) of experience building and running my own business, I’ve narrowed down five ways to regain balance and calm my business personality disorder. I hope it helps you as much as it has me!
the page; my mind is too muddled and emotional. But by writing it down I can sort out my thoughts and feelings and make an informed decision about which thoughts I will choose to believe in. 5. Adopt a calming hobby You know, like knitting. Or yoga. Or Netflix. (What? Netflix is a hobby!) The point is to spend time winding down and actively settling your body and mind. You can’t be an Energiser bunny 24/7, it’s just not possible. And importantly, it’s not sustainable. To perform
1. Let go of the idea of perfection. Ain’t nobody perfect. And the sooner you can come to terms with the reality of your beautifully flawless self the sooner you’ll be able to use your assets to your advantage and get some support with the ‘other’ not-so-perfect stuff. But more to the point … quit beating yourself up for it. Because hard work, determination and confidence will get you places in life. But it won’t, unfortunately, make you perfect. And nobody expects you to be. Just do your best. That’s all you can ask of yourself.
do when your inner-mean-girl is at the helm is to question
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at your best you need to balance activity and action with rest and renewal. Because the truth is that there will always be that innermean-girl in all of us. And she’s not all bad – sometimes she forces you to closely examine things that warrant close examination! And if you can learn to listen to her when she’s being useful and quieten her when she’s not, you’ll be well on your way to crafting an amazing business – together!
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We have all done it…. Worn the mask that others want to see, changed who we are, according to who we are talking to, or decided to be someone else to get through a situation!
BE WHO YOU ARE THE ART OF S HAPING YOUR FUTURE” BY TRUDY SIMMONS
I know that I have! What I have learned over the last few years – ESPECIALLY having my own business – is that trying to be the person that everyone else wants me to be – IS EXHAUSTING! Exhausting, I tell you! And, it isn’t something that you can quickly UNLEARN…
W W W.T H E D A I S YC H A I N G R O U P. C O M . A U
oh no… it is something that you really have to work on. It is something that is worth the effort. It is something that “should” come so naturally – but… but… but….. When you are aware that you are being someone else, it is not a thing that can then be ignored. If you sat down and REALLY THOUGHT about who you are and who you WANT to be… who is that? If you think about who you want to be known as, who is that? By your family, by your friends, by your colleagues or your clients…. Who do you want to be? This is something that I have worked with tirelessly over the years, both for myself and with my clients. We have spent so much of our lives worrying about what we “should” do, or who we “should” be, that we have forgotten to be “who we are”!
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To shape the bestest version of you, and shape the bestest future for yourself, ask these questions and LISTEN to the answers that come from within you: 1. Who am I? Who do I want to be known as? For example; generous, humorous, intelligent, a leader, empathetic, compassionate…. You get the picture! 2. If I could create my future by being this person, what would my future look like? Visualise it, find pictures of it, write it down, record it – whatever way
action – if this is you, take heart that you are not alone
you can to really take in the future.
and that YOU CAN DO THIS – especially if you are being the whole of you in putting yourself out there. I would
3. Write down an action plan, or list of things-to-do
be more than happy to have a chat with you if you are an
between who you are now and who you want to be –
action-taker that is STUCK!
what does that list include? Are there baby steps that you can take RIGHT NOW?
For the most part….. Just be YOU!
4. TAKE ACTION – the best way through any fear is to
In my case, that is ever-so-slightly-bonkers-with-a-side-
take action!
of-singing-and-a-soupcon-of-hilarious PLUS a healthy dose of the practical/logical and a heart full of intuition
I know that when I have helped clients with this, they
and empathy!
can get “stuck” with the visualising, or creating a plan that makes sense – and then procrastinate on taking 29
BOOM – that’s me…. WHO ARE YOU?
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HUSTLE & HEART FUEL BOX When was the last time you had a good laugh with your partner or learned something new about each other? Or had a conversations that wasn’t about the kids or who is taking out the garbage. With Spring finally here FuelBox is something fun to do together on those cosy date nights in. FuelBox COUPLES contains 170 cards with humorous, serious and engaging questions guaranteed to fuel some great conversations and strengthen your relationship! www.fuelboxaustralia.com.au
MENTORING SESSIONS FOR C R E AT I V E E N T R E P R E N E U R S ? What’s holding you back in business? Are you a multi-passionate struggling to find a profitable niche or looking for ways to market on zero budget and gain traction? Are you an entrepreneur looking to develop an online strategy to connect with your audience and develop a way to communicate your brand massage clearly? Business doesn’t have to be hard, it’s possible to be passionate and profitable and live what you love everyday. Work on any area of your business that’s holding you back, in a 1 hour one-on-one business strategy session + a free 2 page action plan for $49.00 In person sessions at Paddington, Brisbane or Skype www.hiroradical.com
THE ROOOAR PODCAST WITH ANNA DOWER ROOOAR is an online hub dedicated to the real life female business warriors (in their fierce superhero(ine) capes) that specialises in three things: confidence, candour & friendship. The founder of ROOOAR, Anna Dower, believes in creating the life you want to live, dreaming big, hustling until you succeed and being 100% unapologetically YOU in your business. The ROOOAR podcast will bring you real stories of business failure, success and everything in between; it will nourish your soul and feed your brain.
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MOELOCO These flip flops spread messages both on the front and through its relief etched sole. This means that you leave a footprint of inspirational words in the sand. The positive messages include words such as love, happiness and peace in our initial designs. Future collections will spread other meaningful words of virtue With the purchase of every Moeloco, we will provide a pair of shoes directly to the orphans supported by the Hope Foundation. This will enable children to attend school and avoid injury and health issues caused by lack of footwear. By going to school the children have an improved chance of leaving poverty behind. www.moeloco.com
LEESA BARR MAKE UP Makeup like no other! An Approachable Luxury Brand, inspired by the desire to create Sophisticated, MultiTasking Cosmetics enhancing your Life Style and your Look. Formulated with Smart Ingredients; blurring the line between Makeup and Skincare. Nourishing and Radiance Refining. Ethically sourced Premium Ingredients, Healing Oils obtain Exceptional Results. 100% Toxic Free. Lovingly tested on Friends and Family. www.leesabarr.com.au
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No. No, thank you. Not right now. I’m sorry; you’re not the right fit.
B EEN PROFE SS IONALLY RE JEC TED? HERE’ S WHAT TO DO NE X T.
We’ve decided to go with another business/supplier/contractor. However want to swing it, you’ve been rejected. It’s okay. It’s normal. Everyone, at some stage or another, has and will be rejected. And that sting you’re feeling? The one that’s muddying the serene waters of your mind
BY CASSANDRA LANE
with thoughts of ‘It’s not them, it’s me’ and ‘I’ve failed. If
W W W.WILDSPIRIT.CO
only I was xyz enough’ and even ‘Bah! Morons!’ …. Yeah, that’s normal too. Rejection hurts. Let’s all take a moment to acknowledge that. However, rejection need not throw you off your game. It’s not a warning from the universe that you’re on the wrong path – and subsequently ruining your life – and it’s not a sign that you, your business and your services are not enough. Stephen King (yep, the writerly dude now worth $400 million dollars) was rejected 30 times before Carrie was published. 32
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feedback. It might be guidance that illuminates wisdom you’ve missed. It might be nothing. It might be anything you want it to mean. But at the end of the day it’s just a ‘no’. And a ‘no’ isn’t that scary. Rejection fuels success. When you choose to interpret as a lesson (or anything else you want it to mean) you can then harness its message to fuel your inner fire. To prove them wrong. To say ‘yes’ to yourself and your dreams and to continue working, and improving, until you’re winning more than you’re losing. Because who doesn’t enjoy the look on somebody’s face when, after they’ve told you something can’t be done, you go and do it anyway? You’re a rebel. A fighter. And rejection is just one more notch on your soon-to-be heavyweight success champion belt. When Rudyard Kipling, author of The Jungle Book, was
Rejection isn’t failure … and even failure isn’t a failure
rejected he was told that he didn’t understand how to use the English language.
We’re all so scared of people not liking us. Not liking our business. Not liking our offerings. And we’re
And yet these geniuses (and a quibillion more that I don’t
terrified of failing.
have time to mention) didn’t allow their rejection(s) to break their spirits or their dreams. They went on to
But the truth is that rejection and failure aren’t evil
succeed anyway.
twins hunting us down. They’re – again – whatever you want them to mean, but, more importantly
Because the truth is that rejection, even with a side
they’re opportunities.
serving of shade from the person doing the rejecting, isn’t a bad thing. In fact, it may be the best thing that
Opportunities to try again. Try better. Try greater.
could happen to you.
Keep trying. Keep refining. Keep practicing.
Here’s why.
Until one day, because of all of those failures and
Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough
rejections, you’re better than you’ve ever been before.
Seriously. Write that down and read it out loud however many times it takes to sink in. Rejection doesn’t mean
And so, friends, I hope that not only are you rejected,
you’re not good enough.
but that you fail too. For when you’re rejected and failing, you’re growing. And that is the best thing a
Instead, rejection means whatever the heck you want
human could possibly be doing.
it to mean. It might be a lesson. It might be valuable 33
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Clear, on purpose, without fear.
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6 WAYS TO OVERCOME PRO CR A S TINATI ON THROUG H P OS ITIVE THINK ING BY CLARE DESIRA W W W.TOPFIVEMOVEMENT.COM
Procrastination is actually a form of negative thinking. It’s fear. Fear of failure, fear of not living up to expectations, fear of risks. “I’ll do it later.” How often do you say that? How often do you have the time, the energy and the skillset to complete a task yet you decide it’s best saved for another time? How often do you succumb to that productivity-preventing force known and feared by all? PROCRASTINATION. Sometimes we convince ourselves that we actually can and will do our work later. But later may never come. Or maybe later comes in the waning hours of a deadline, forcing you to hastily finish a project with the grace of a Tasmanian devil. Procrastination is actually a form of negative thinking. It’s fear. Fear of failure, fear of not living up to expectations, fear of risks. When you procrastinate, you give in to inaction, which then causes even more stress and negativity. Your best tool for battling procrastination? Positive thinking. A whole new, positive perspective can inspire informed action rather than leave you feeling guilty for not taking action. 35
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Here are 6 ways to use positive thinking to overcome the weight of procrastination: Make Positivity a Habit. When you start a positive thinking habit, like a daily top five list or a gratitude journal, you develop an optimistic point of view. Research has shown that a positive thinking habit can make you physically, emotionally and mentally healthier. It also has been shown to improve confidence and energy. That newly acquired self-esteem ensures you become a productivity ninja. Appreciate the Small Steps. Sometimes we overlook the first steps — research, planning, education — because they are so simple and obvious. If the project seems monstrous, break it down into easy, accomplishable tasks.
Also, it helps if you visualise completing the task. Think about the positive emotion that will come with this.
Try the Pomodoro Technique. Set a timer for 25 minutes, and start researching or writing or plotting. No
Get Negative…Briefly. What’s the worst that can
interruptions, no distractions, just concentrate on one
happen? Think about it. Acknowledge it. Just for a
task. After 25 minutes, take a break. You’ll either have
moment. Then think about what’s the best that can
finished the task or you’ll be so engrossed in your work
happen? Stay in this mindset.
that you’ll reset the timer and keep going. This is a great tool if you tend to be an over-thinker. Now, Chip away at the task, and then celebrate what you’ve
you can use your over-thinking powers for good.
accomplished. See the Big Picture. It’s easy to get caught in the
See the Temporary Nature of Change. When you procrastinate on making a big life-changing, mind-
minutia of a task. The paperwork, the bureaucracy,
boggling decision, you need to realize that not many
the roadblocks. Instead of dwelling on the nitty gritty,
decisions last forever. In most cases, you can resume the
concentrate on the big picture outcomes.
life you had pre-decision.
You know your ever-growing task list? The one that
This is perfectly illustrated in one of the stories in Kylie
haunts you. Yes, that one! Focus that to-do list on
Lewis’ The Leap Series, which is about real people who
outcomes. Make the heading something with meaning
have taken the leap and made a big career change. A
and impact: Make my home environment a healthy,
quote from one of Lewis’ stories: “You can always fall
inspirational, balanced space. Then create a list that
back on your previous career…but you never know what
will help you attain that big picture ideal: clean carpets,
is possible without giving it a go.”—Anna Anagno.
prune the bushes, etc. When you connect mundane or time-consuming tasks with a positive outcome it gets a
Just. Get. Started. It is easier to review and improve a
whole lot easier.
rough draft than it is to review and improve a blank page. 36
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R O O O A39R ROOOAR.COM.AU R E T R E AT 2 0 1 7
If you’ve been a quiet achiever your whole life, you might have resigned yourself to the fact that you are never going to be successful by just being you. Perhaps you’ve come to think that, in order to be successful, you have to put on a more extroverted front but the reality is that you will just exhaust yourself in the process. The way to be seen in your business, is not through trying to be like everyone else, but to use your
THE QUIET ACHIEVER
quiet strengths as a more introverted person and use what makes you different to set yourself apart.
BY K ATH ER I N E M ACK ENZI E-S M ITH W W W.K ATHERINEMACKENZIESMITH.COM
Consider your quiet nature an asset. In the noisy world we live in, everyone is shouting to be heard. Spouting their latest ‘wisdom’, pimping their latest offering, talking to anyone they come into contact with. It’s not just exhausting for everyone, it’s also a lot of information to take in. And, you know what? When you’re talking all the time, you aren’t spending much time listening, observing, and really hearing what it is your clients and readers need.
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Pay attention to where you naturally do well.
But, when it’s your nature to observe and listen, you are so much better able to serve your clients. You can pay attention, fill the gaps in their challenges, and give them exactly what they need (instead of telling them what you think they need). Get quiet and creative on your own In the online business world there’s plenty of doing something just because ‘everyone else’ is. But it’s hard to stand out when you look just like every other person in your industry, offering the same services, and using And that’s okay. We are all individuals with different
the same buzzwords.
skills and strengths. But you have to know that and be What if you could learn to trust your own inner thoughts
aware of yours before blindly following the advice of
and ideas instead of looking externally? In fact, for
somebody else just because their social media profile
introverts, it’s more natural to turn within, which gives
suggests some level of credibility.
the quiet souls a real advantage to get away from all the noise and be leaders because of our comfort in standing
Pay attention to where you naturally do well. Tune in to
alone.
what makes you really happy - who you work with, how you help them, and what you love to talk about. And
Imagine what you could achieve if you considered
understand that ‘their way’ isn’t always going to be ‘your
leadership and your business from a place of not
way’.
requiring external validation and making decisions from a place of pure inspiration, creativity, and your own
Take what you like, leave the rest, tweak, refine, and
strengths and intuition?
find your own way to shine in your business for playing to your strengths (instead of trying to fit into someone
Find your own way to shine
else’s box).
The online business world is constantly trying to sell
There is a great quote by an unknown source that goes,
you their version of success. And that’s great because
‘Just because you’re quiet doesn’t mean that you aren’t
people have experience and knowledge that has worked
a force to be reckoned with.’ Don’t ever let anyone (or
for them and they want to share that with others.
yourself) try and convince you otherwise and if you can shift your mindset to believe it, there’s no telling what
But their way might not work for you.
you can do. 41
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A RE YOU R DECISIONS BASED ON FEAR OR GROWTH? BY JARK A KUNOVA W W W.DESIGNEDBYLIFE.COM. AU
Being clouded by insecurities is a vulnerability you can’t
potentially not getting married at an age that my friends
afford. Anyone who has ever made a decision out of fear
and family believed was acceptable.
regretted it years later. No, instead I knew I had so much more to learn and In the world that moves at an incredibly fast pace, your
explore. Courage was pulling me into the world and with
decisions also need to become agile and relevant. What I
that, I hung up my degree in law and literally hit the road,
have observed over the course of the past decade is the
on my own with no plan but a lot of curiosity to explore
distinct difference between outcomes that were based
my own potential.
on fear and that of growth. Every time I leaned into a growth-based decision, it felt Ever since I knew my mind I remember being motivated
expansive in my body, I could breath easily and I felt like
by this deep passion for travel, exploration and
everything was falling into place. They liberated me with
adventure. I knew until such time I said ‘yes’ to getting
a sense of freedom and gave me that spring in my step
out of my hometown, I wouldn’t be able to stand still and
that carried me further down my path.
get on the bandwagon of chasing ‘that dream’. You know the one where you finish University, get a good job, save
But of course there were also instances when times got
up a house deposit, maybe even meet a nice guy and
tough and circumstances even tougher and I recall how
settle down.
fear took over my existence on a number of occasions. My actions were solely driven by insecurity, scarcity and
It was never a story that felt comfortable simply because
the fear of letting others down. I can still remember just
it wasn’t my story to step into. If I had chosen that path,
how much of my own power I gave away to others. It
it would’ve been out of fear. That fear of falling behind
became debilitating over time.
my peers, the fear of not getting a reputable job and 42
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Taking a risk means you don’t know the outcome on the other side but how else can you then explain miracles and life changing events that you didn’t see coming?
A strong character and will power is required to get yourself out of the regretful twists and turns and often people struggle with that. As you would have probably guessed, it’s a lot harder to dig yourself out of regret than find your way in. Knowing the other side makes it easier to recognise fear when it comes your way again. It also enables you to choose the opposite of fear if you on that climb back up. Growth based decisions can sometimes appear too unrealistic or bold but there is a reason for that. Taking a risk means you don’t know the outcome on the other side but how else can you then explain miracles and life changing events that you didn’t see coming? There is no such thing as an overnight success. There So my friends, build your careers, businesses and lives is hard work and patience and on this long road there in accordance with your greatest growth potential and are decisions that you can make out of fear or growth. if you happen to stumble along the way, fear not, you People allow emotions and the opinion of others get are supported by the calling you feel in your heart. It’s the better of them. In the world of so-called ‘overnight there for a reason and it’s relying on you to keep pushing success’ stories, there is no room for such vulnerabilities. through. Fear not, expand more. 43
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ROOOAR Magazine is devoted to celebrating and supporting you: the real warrior women of business. The real heart-on-fire dreamers with big, bold plans for the future. And our REALLY bloody inspiring community of untamed women who dream big, seize opportunities even bigger and bravely make their mark on the world. We are here to celebrate you. ROOOAR Magazine vows to help you nurture confidence (because you’re brilliant, naturally, and you should know it) with candor (because you deserve the truth, the real truth, and nothing but the truth) and friendship (because you are worthy of a squad that is fierce, loyal and supportive). And it’s our duty, nay our honour, to showcase and share your inspiring stories while gently guiding you with on the path to untamed business success with articles, resources and wisdom from the very best real women of business.
Thank you for reading
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