Transformation Coaching Magazine December 2023 by Transformation Coaching Magazine

RISING STAR Rising Star Coach: Marike Nienaber

INSPIRATION & GROWTH Accepting Life “As It Is” Overcome Emotional Eating Glimmers HEALTHY Family Matters Is it Love or Attachment? Graduation 2023 Find the Light

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FEED YOUR SPIRIT The Significance of Service

COACHING AND BUSINESS TOOLS Boost Your Local SEO Executive Coaching

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PUBLISHERS Natalie Rivera Joeel A. Rivera, M.Ed.

EDITOR Lisa Cedrone

CONTRIBUTORS Emil Nazaryan, Rena Greenberg, Linda Commito, Terez Hartmann, Spencer Rouse, Jo Mooy, Mary Boutieller, Jowanna Daley, Owen Waters, Marla Albertie

We believe that self-employment is the ultimate form of empowerment. Our mission is to bring you guests whose powerful entrepreneurship stories and real-world advice will give you the inspiration and tools to create a business and life that you love.

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Rising Star Coach: Marike Nienaber

Here at Transformation Academy we are excited to announce our December’s Transformation Academy Rising Star – Marike Nienaber! Our goal with this initiative is to recognize and celebrate group membership who demonstrate the heart and service of a coach. Each monthly recipient of this recognition will be selected for a unique reason. Some will be seasoned coaches who serve as valuable mentors within the group. Others may be just starting their coach-training journey and exude a contagious attitude or passion. Others may be actively supporting other group members, whether by providing resources, answering common questions, or providing moral support. Regardless of each of our wonderful group members’ background or experience, we all benefit from the mutual support and varied perspectives offered within this d iverse group! The Rising Star initiative is a way to give a special THANK YOU to those who go above and beyond to share of themselves within this community.

ABOUT MARIKE:

Marike Nienaber, D.Ms, South Africa Dr. Marike https://www.marikenie.co.za/ Metaphysician

"I firmly believe that a healed and empowered woman has the capacity to heal the world in return, creating a ripple effect of positive change."

Marike Nienaber, D.Ms, is a dynamic South Africanbased professional life coach and metaphysician, actively guiding individuals on their transformative journeys since 2021. At 41 years old and a mother of three, Marike is a remarkable figure who holds an impressive 18 coaching certifications and, at the age of 40, attained her doctorate degree in metaphysical sciences after two years of unwavering dedication. Her credentials also include being a qualified Usui Reiki Master Teacher. Marike's expertise lies in personality analysis and emotional intelligence, where she excels in fostering empowerment and self-discovery. She extends her wisdom through “The Clarity Catalyst,” a coaching program designed to ignite positive change. In early 2023, Marike unveiled the Boheems Academy as an integral component of her unique coaching program, offering clients and students alike the opportunity to embark on their heroic journey with a holistic approach. While her primary focus is on women aged 30 to 50, her academy warmly welcomes anyone eager to explore this empowering path. Dr. Marike is an avid learner herself, currently pursuing studies in psychology. She's also a published author, with her self-help book, “From Sidekick to Superhero,” available on Kindle. Her ambitions know no bounds, aiming to train 1,000 students within the next two years and produce more insightful self-help books. Beyond her academic and coaching pursuits, Marike has gained a strong following on TikTok, where she shares educational and inspirational content, uplifting and empowering her audience.

WHAT IS YOUR NICHE (COACHING FOCUS) AND HOW DID YOU CHOOSE IT?

My coaching niche is centered around personality analysis and emotional intelligence. The decision to focus on these areas stems from my deep-seated belief that genuine self-awareness and mastering emotional regulation are not just tools for personal growth but the keys to living a content and purposeful life, regardless of the challenges life presents.

WHO IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT?

Over the years, through my personal experiences, extensive studies, and interactions with clients, I’ve noticed a common thread. Millennial and Gen X women, shaped by societal expectations, often lose touch with their authentic selves as they age. My ideal client is a woman aged 30 to 50 who senses a disconnection and yearns for self-discovery and empowerment. This age group has a unique set of challenges and experiences that I am well-equipped to address.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN COACHING?

After a full year of study, my coaching journey commenced in 2021, and over the past three years, it has continuously evolved and grown. Each year has brought new learnings and experiences that have enhanced my approach to coaching, making me a more effective and empathetic coach.

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR FIRST CLIENT?

My inaugural client in 2021 was a fellow network marketer who initially sought a listening ear and support. During our sessions, I not only provided a safe space for her to express herself but also introduced her to the transformative techniques I had been learning and implementing in my own life. Over the course of a year, our coaching relationship deepened, and she evolved into a dear friend. Her openness and eagerness to learn played a pivotal role in shaping my coaching approach, and she is now pursuing her own coaching career. This experience was foundational in molding my path as a coach.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A LIFE HOW HAS YOUR COACHING JOURNEY CHANGED YOUR LIFE? COACH?

My journey into life coaching was an unexpected turn of events. Facing a profound personal crisis and reaching the depths of despair, I made the conscious decision to pursue life coaching as a means of rescuing myself. My initial step involved completing a Mindfulness Life Coach Certification, which I diligently applied to my daily life. The profound transformations that unfolded as a result of these techniques motivated me to delve deeper into the world of coaching. My journey has been marked by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for sharing the life-changing methods I’ve encountered, ultimately leading to the blossoming of my coaching business.

My coaching journey has been transformative in my own life. As I began taking the first few coaching courses, my hunger for knowledge grew stronger. In 2021, I embarked on a doctorate program for Metaphysical Sciences, and, to my surprise, the foundation laid by the extensive array of life coaching courses I had completed made the academic journey considerably easier. This enabled me to complete my Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees in a span of just two years, a remarkable achievement. My specialization in personality analysis and emotional regulation solidified, and at the beginning of 2023, I launched my own academy as an integral part of my unique coaching program. This

academy requires clients to undertake self-improvement, allowing them to become their own life coaches. My personal experience with the transformative power of these methods inspired me to provide others with the same opportunity for growth and empowerment.

WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF BEING A LIFE COACH?

The most challenging aspect of being a life coach is working with clients who are hesitant or unwilling to invest the necessary effort to enact meaningful change in their lives. It emphasizes the importance of selecting clients carefully, as successful coaching requires a commitment to personal growth and change from both parties.

WHAT IS THE MOST FULFILLING PART OF BEING A LIFE COACH?

The most fulfilling moment in my coaching journey is when a client reaches a stage where they can independently resolve their own issues and obstacles, applying the tools and insights I’ve provided. It’s a beautiful realization that they no longer need a coach because they are adequately equipped and empowered to take full charge of their own happiness and success. This is often when clients transition from clients to friends, as they step into a more self-assured and empowered version of themselves.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST INSPIRATIONAL COACHING MOMENT, WITH A CLIENT?

One of the most inspirational moments in my coaching career was witnessing a single mother undergo a remarkable transformation, embracing her full personal power and authenticity. She made significant changes in her life that not only improved her own well-being but also had a positive impact on her family. This experience reinforced the belief in the transformative power of coaching and the incredible resilience and potential within each individual.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COACHING ACTIVITY OR EXERCISE TO DO WITH CLIENTS?

My go-to coaching activity is centered around Emotional Intelligence. It’s a pivotal starting point in our coaching journey, as mastering emotional intelligence serves as a foundation for personal growth. Once emotional intelligence is well-established, we delve into personality analysis, allowing clients to gain deeper insights into their individual traits and tendencies, further enhancing their self-awareness.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST EFFECTIVE STRATEGY FOR FINDING CLIENTS AND/OR GROWING YOUR BUSINESS?

Building a strong and engaged community on TikTok has proven to be a highly effective strategy for finding clients and expanding my coaching business. By consistently providing educational and inspirational content, I’ve been able to connect with a wide audience and attract individuals who resonate with my coaching approach.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOURSELF BACK WHEN YOU FIRST DREAMED OF BECOMING A COACH?

If I could offer advice to my younger self when I first dreamed of becoming a coach, I would emphasize the importance of wholeheartedly embracing this calling without fear of judgment. I would encourage myself to take bold steps, without holding back or playing small, because it's in those moments of fearless pursuit that true growth and transformation occur.

WHAT IS THE IMPACT YOU WANT TO MAKE IN THIS WORLD?

My ultimate goal is to empower women to become the architects of their own lives. I firmly believe that a healed and empowered woman has the capacity to heal the world in return, creating a ripple effect of positive change. One client at a time, I aspire to contribute to a world where women are not only self-aware but also confident in their ability to create a life that brings them happiness and fulfillment. This is the impact I aim to make, a world where empowered women become beacons of positive change.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH TRANSFORMATION COACHING MAGAZINE READERS?

From Sidekick to Superhero—Becoming the main character in your story, my new self-help book, is launching December 25, 2023 on Kindle. Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey and become the hero of your own story? Step into the spotlight of your life’s epic tale. This empowering book takes you on a profound exploration of selfdiscovery, mindfulness, happiness and purpose, equipping you with the tools to rewrite the script of your life. Drawing on my extensive background in metaphysical sciences, emotional intelligence, and personality analysis, you’ll delve into the depths of your own psyche to uncover the hidden potential within.

Discover how to harness the power of the Law of Attraction to manifest your deepest desires and aspirations. Uncover the keys to emotional intelligence, helping you navigate the complex terrain of your feelings with grace and wisdom. Gain insights into your unique personality, unlocking the strengths that make you the hero of your own story. Throughout this transformative journey, you’ll learn to: • Cultivate mindfulness to live in the present moment and find inner peace. • Unlock the secrets to lasting happiness and joy. • Define your life’s purpose and create a roadmap to achieve your dreams. • Harness the Law of Attraction to manifest your heart’s desires. • Develop emotional intelligence for healthier relationships and self-awareness. • Embrace your unique personality traits to become your most authentic self. From Sidekick to Superhero is not just a book; it’s your guide to personal empowerment and transformation. Whether you’re seeking to reignite your passion, overcome obstacles, or simply live a more fulfilling life, this book provides the roadmap to empower yourself as the protagonist of your own epic tale. Are you ready to embrace your inner hero and rewrite the narrative of your life? Join me on this transformative adventure and discover the power within you to become the hero of your own journey.

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Accepting Life “As It Is”

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Three ways to navigate the ups and downs of life by living peacefully in the moment. By Emil Nazaryan The first week of June of 2023 was a rather memorable week in my life. I had a wonderful family vacation at a five-star resort in the Bahamas. It was marvelous! Perfect weather, picturesque setting, shining turquoise water, warm tropical sun, water park, cocktails on the beach, unforgettable fun memories with my wife and two children. It was paradise itself! There was probably nothing better we could have wished for at that time. Then, two hours after we got back from our vacation, I learned that my father had just passed away. Imagine that. Since he lived overseas, I almost didn’t have time to unpack my suitcases before I traveled to Armenia for the funeral. Just five days after our return from the vacation, I was standing in front of my father’s casket in the cemetery, on top of a beautiful hill, with tears in my eyes, looking at all my relatives mourning the huge loss. Have you had similar experiences in your life? One day you are on top of the world, and the next day it feels like your life goes upside down? Something great happens, and it’s followed by something horrible. How do you handle these ups and downs, especially the downs? It’s easy and natural to enjoy the good, but how do you react to the bad? Let’s get back to my story. A soft breeze was brushing against my face as I stood there in

d isbelief. Just a week earlier I was sipping down a margarita on the white sands of a magical Caribbean beach, and here I was a week later, 6,000 miles away, surrounded by pain and sobbing. Then something hit me. I realized, in the deepest possible sense, that this is life. It’s a package deal. It’s a combined total of the positives and negatives, pain and pleasure, war and peace, failure and success, adversity and happiness. As much as we would like it to be otherwise, we can’t have one without the other. I had an intuitive flash that life was like that by design. In the midst of somber music, the crying of my loved ones and my own tears, a profound peace filled my essence. It was the acceptance of life as it is. Of course, there was still deep pain and grief for the loss of my father, but there was no added pain of “it shouldn’t have happened.” It had happened, and there was acceptance of it happening. There was no artificial escalation of pain that would inevitably arise if the question of “why” kept coming back. And yet, that’s how most of us live our lives. Think about your life, your problems at the moment. What’s causing you to worry? What’s causing your suffering? Is it something that is actually happening right now, at this instant? Or is it something that you are afraid that may or may not happen in the future, or something you wish hadn’t happened in the past?

Stop and think about it. I venture to say that at this very instant, while you are reading these words, there is nothing that worries you. As soon as your thoughts about shoulds, woulds, mights and shouldn’t haves arise, the worry comes with them. Is there a solution? I say yes. Learn to live your life as it happens, and not how you think it should have happened. That reduces unnecessary suffering. You start living only in the moment. When there’s grief, you grieve, when there’s joy, you’re joyous, when there’s laughter, you laugh. The mental drama falls off gradually over a period of time. This concept may sound abstract, unattainable, unrealistic and not very appealing. No one can actually help you grasp the benefits of this approach, this way of life. The only way for you to experience the power behind it is to try it yourself and keep moving forward. Here are three things you can do. • The first approach is to consciously and wholeheartedly make a decision that you accept life as a package deal that includes all the interconnected opposites. Understanding this ahead of time will soften the impact of anything unpredictable or undesirable that happens in the future. • The second approach is to start becoming aware of your thoughts and feelings. When you become aware of your feelings, there is a detachment, 9

Photo by Guilherme Stecanella on Unsplash.

a separation of you from those feelings. You realize that the feelings may be in you, but you are not the feelings. Watch how you feel as much as you can, and as often as you can. See what happens.

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The third one is a bit unconventional and paradoxical, but here it goes. Focus on helping others. When you silently help others without expecting anything in return, your heart opens up to healing grace, which swaddles

you in a blanket of love, compassion, forgiveness and peace. Any of these three approaches will position you to navigate the ups and downs of life without drowning in them. But don’t take my word for it. Try it for yourself!

Emil Nazaryan is a motivational writer and a contributor to the monthly Motivational Corner column of HR Realtor Magazine. He has undergone a spiritual transformation which has led the way to sharing the insights he has experienced with the others. He is well acquainted with all major spiritual traditions of the world, but it is the direct experience of the essence of these teachings that is responsible for the altered life outlook and the motivational articles that stem this. In his daily life Emil is a successful REALTOR and he resides in Norfolk, VA, with his wife and two children. Contact him by email at emil.rw@gmail.com.

Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash.

Overcome Emotional Eating

By Rena Greenberg Are you an emotional eater? Do you use food as a coping mechanism for the challenges you are facing? What if you could resign yourself to the fact that your life contains both miraculous and amazing moments of joy and, at other times, deep periods of growth? If you truly could accept that sometimes life is difficult, would you still need to push feelings of disappointment and doubt away with food? If you are honest with yourself, you may come to see that you often eat as a way to avoid feeling bad. Obviously, the result is that after you overeat or create an overweight condition for yourself, you feel even worse. However, your diversion tactic worked. Now, instead of focusing on, or even maintaining awareness of the original “problem” that was “eating away at you,” you can pinpoint your pain on something tangible, and you can blame yourself for being overweight. Now, you can focus all of your precious life energy on trying desperately to solve the problem of your overweight condition. You can obsess about food, calories, scale numbers, and points, and give your mind something to chew on and dwell on endlessly, with few solutions to be found. If you go back and trace the roots, you can see that the whole reason you have a weight issue is because you didn’t want to feel your original feelings of insecurity in the first place. This original inner wound may even go back to childhood, when you felt hurt or rejected or mistreated in some way. When you can realize and accept that part of being alive is experiencing pain or feelings of insecurity and then become willing to be with your experience and have compassion for yourself, you no longer need to numb yourself with foods that are poisonous to your system or with too much food. It can be very helpful to witness yourself when you are about to engage in compulsive or unproductive behavior and just step back and observe what’s going on inside your mind. Are you feeling bored, anxious, or unhappy in some way? Is your inner voice telling you lies such as: “What’s difference does it make what I do now— I’m so hopeless!” “This feeling will never pass! It’s who I am.” “I might as well eat this food [or drink this drink]— it’s the only pleasure I have.” Just becoming aware of this negative, destructive voice can be so helpful, because it allows you to watch it without identifying with it. You can breathe into the voice and help it to dissolve into something much larger than itself—like the same loving, healing, creative force that makes a small seed grow into a majestic, beautiful tree. When you become aware of these two opposing forces, you can realize that you have a choice as to which one you allow to drive you and your decisions. Your creative, all-knowing voice may inform you that: “This feeling will pass. I am in control of my life and my habits. I breathe the life force and healing light into every cell of my body and into every thought. I prefer healthy, nutritious food and I eat only when I am physically hungry.”

FINDING ACCEPTANCE AND PATIENCE

More than a decade ago, I had the privilege of traveling to Lake Arrowhead, CA, four times a year for five years to complete a Master’s Degree program at the University of Spiritual Healing and Sufism. One of the things that struck me when I first went to the top of the mountain where Lake Arrowhead is located was the dry lake bed. I used to take walks around the lake, and felt the sadness of the region, seeing many boats and docks on dry land, far from the water’s edge. This went on for two years, and I imagined how helpless the dock and boat owners must have felt about the situation. There was NOTHING they could do to bring on rain—to make the lake full again. All that was required was acceptance and patience, and coming to terms with the fact that the lake might always be this low for the rest of their lifetimes. After two years of this drought, on my ninth trip to Lake Arrowhead, during the winter months, rain poured down relentlessly for the entire week that I was there. It rained so hard I couldn’t even go outside. By the following April, to my delight, the lake was full once again. When I walked around the lake, every boat and every dock was surrounded by deep water. I could feel the deep joy and gratitude of the region, as the whole area came alive with people relishing in the blessing of this beautiful body of water. That experience taught me, in a very profound way, the value of patience and the natural ebb and flow of nature and life. When the lake dried up, people were helpless to correct the situation. There was no denying that it was sad, and all anyone could do was accept the way things were. Often, it’s the same for us in our lives. We have a difficult time so we turn to food, generally unconsciously, to soothe ourselves. Very few of us were taught how to make friends with our grief. We’ll do anything to cover it over, including building ourselves up, being aggressive, or withdrawing. Very often we turn to food addiction as a way to mask the grief. But we need to be OK with the sadness that we experience in life. There are going to be times when life is difficult—when we feel alone. During times of sadness, it’s so important to be accepting of yourself, to give yourself love, not to turn your back on yourself…to be patient with yourself and to know that this is part of being alive. During times of hardship, instead of acting out and making things worse for yourself, have faith to know that your difficult feelings will indeed pass and that new blessings and joy are coming your way. Don’t blame yourself or others. Do what you can on the physical level to create change, but then release the situation and focus on being kind to yourself and others. There is an ancient Sufi saying: “The price of an open heart is pain.” The amazing thing is that when we do finally say yes to the doubt or insecurity, and accept that it’s there 13

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while having the courage to look for the gift in it, it often transforms into something beautiful. When you see this, you realize at a cellular level that you no longer have to mask your painful feelings by reaching for any addictive substance, such as food. Beyond your pain is where you can begin to get a taste of the

deep love, peace and joy behind everything and everyone that connects you to all of life. This vast, infinite force is always available to lift you higher and help you to see that not only are you blessed, but you truly are a blessing on this earth and that everything is happening exactly as it’s supposed to unfold.

Love Life, Live Happy, Live Healthy with Rena Greenberg Rena Greenberg, a Hay House author, can be reached at http://www.EasyWillpower.com. Her weight loss and gastric bypass hypnosis success has been featured in 150-plus news stories including USA Today, Woman’s World, The Doctor’s, CNN, Good Morning America and Nightline. PBS stations nationally aired Rena’s show, “Easy Willpower,” in August 2015. Her wellness program is sponsored in 75 hospitals and 100-plus corporations. She conducts hypnotherapy sessions with people all over the world on Skype.

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Glimmers

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What Are They and How Can We Experience More? By Linda Commito “Glimmers,” a term coined by Deb Dana, LCSW in her work on the Polyvagal Theory, are “micro moments of joy that make us feel happy, hopeful and safe.” We are well aware of our “triggers” that can cause anxiety, but identifying glimmers can actually help us to recover from our daily stresses to be in a more peaceful, “parasympathetic state.” How can we shift our focus and look for ways to bring more happiness, comfort and connection to our everyday lives and to those around us? I was soon to find out. On a recent visit to my hometown, while waiting for Mom to get a massage, I had a muffin at a busy diner in the building. Sitting at the end of the long counter, I noticed the caring waitress who made everyone feel special. I overheard her saying that she had recently lost her dog. I said, “I’m sorry for your loss. I love dogs and just wrote an article called, “Do Dogs Hold the Secret to Our Hearts?” “They do,” she agreed. I handed her my card and invited her to read the article on my website. She noticed my name and said: “Commito? Are you related to Art’s Variety Store?” I said, “Yes, that was my dad’s store!” And she answered “I’m a Maramo!” “We’re cousins!” we both exclaimed! What a gift of synchronicity and connection! When I went back to meet Mom, and shared the fun story with Marie, her massage therapist, she said, “That’s a GLIMMER!” I keep thinking about how to identify other glimmers in my life and invited friends to share theirs. These tiny moments that inspire feelings of joy and safety, as well as calm our nervous system, can be found anywhere, anytime. What we focus on magnifies. Mary, my yoga teacher, experiences glimmers as “just ordinary things that make me smile, or imbue happy feelings into my day.

Walking in nature, breathing in the smells, listening to the sounds . . . are very calming and nourishing. The challenge for me is to pause long enough to appreciate it, and not just march on to my ‘goal’—usually a destination for our hike. Just saying hello and smiling can make me feel like all is okay with the world.” Francesco, my partner, shared his magical moment: “Being out in nature alone when I connect to the universe’s higher consciousness.” I can relate, especially on a dark night, witnessing the planets and sparkling stars gives me glimmers of hope that I am part of something so vast and yet so personal, that it fills me with awe. I have also found that doing slow, deep breathing helps me to be more mindful and in a state of peace. The world looks better from there. Even the simplest things can act as cues for our bodies to calm our nervous system and experience more joy. I’ve often felt a sense of connectedness when I discover feathers or heart rocks on my path. Another friend, Jeanne, shared: “Routine can make me feel calm and connected. Small routines —a walk I’ve done hundreds of times, coffee in a special cup, sitting in a favorite chair (a rocker is best) and looking out the window. Basically, just small quiet moments. Hugs work too!” And like many grandparents, Kim’s glimmers of joy come from looking at her rotating frame of photos of her grandchildren when she can’t be with them in person or on Facetime. Dana’s research found that we can create “glimmer intentions” that are “beneficial for everyone, but especially for those who have experienced trauma.” Here is an example of such a “micro moment of goodness” and how just four little words gave a friend, Nancy, something to hope for. Seven months ago, her 47- year-old daughter Karla had a brain bleed that has left her incapable of most functions. Currently living in a nursing home, it was rare to hear even

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a single word, with most attempts at communication being gibberish at best. But on this occasion, a male nurse, who cared for and was so kind to Karla, heard Aerosmith playing on her radio. He asked, “Karla, were you ever an Aerosmith fan?” And she replied: “A long time ago.” It was a glimmer of hope that someday she may be able to talk again, even if it has not happened since.

How can we focus on the simple heart-opening things, like people, pets, places, poetry, nature, music… that bring small moments of joy to our lives and to share them with others? It would be a gift of kindness that would not only calm our nervous systems, but bring hope to others and ourselves and help to make this a better world.

Love is the New Currency with Linda Commito Linda Commito, author, speaker, entrepreneur, consultant and teacher, is passionate about her vision to leave this world a kinder, more loving, and interconnected place. Linda’s award-winning book of inspirational stories, Love Is the New Currency, demonstrates how we can each make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others through simple acts of love and kindness. Her latest project, the card game Just Ask 1 2 3, was inspired by a desire to connect people of all different ages, beliefs and lifestyles to share our individuality and find commonality. Linda also created “Kindness Starts with Me,” a program, book and website for children. For more information visit http://www.LoveistheNewCurrency.com or visit the Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/Justask123game.

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HEALTHY Family Matters

The most wonderful time of the year-ish? By Terez Hartmann Happy Holidays—or simply, “Happy Today,” depending upon when this article finds you. ‘Tis the season for lights, activity, preparation, and (dun-dun-dun) family gatherings… For some, this is a period of over-the-top joy, fun and happily singing along with the song “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” Yet, for many the holidays can often stir up quite a few funky marshmallows in the hot chocolate that is family life… Because you are (typically) born into your family tribe, which then further expands via marriage, children, etc., many of these relationships have the longest-running momentum of all— that’s why you can stand tall and stick to your guns with everyone else, but when it comes to your parents/kids/(insert-mega-important family person here), you are mystified as you watch yourself turn into a ball of mush, easily falling right into your old expected roles or behaviors—even when this takes you far, far away from your well-being, joy and the new and upgraded version of the YOU who you have become. When family matters SO much, what’s a loving human— who also wants to live a healthy, happy, authentic life—to do? It was from this very place and state of mush-ness that a powerful question and desire was born in me: Just like I had decided that I wanted to experience BOTH a powerful sense of freedom AND connection with my beloved (which after 23-plus years of being with my “Brave Sir John” is truly how we roll), perhaps I could ALSO create and allow this with the other people I love? Perhaps there IS a way to shift the momentum of the past and create something new with the people who matter most? Though this answer came in the form of an entire course and coaching program*—which I can’t possibly begin to cover in this short span of space—I CAN, however, offer a few of the biggest game-changers that helped to shift MY perspective about what could be possible. So if you are open and willing to consider a few new ideas, perhaps you, too, can start a lovely little family evolutionrevolution, just in time for the holidays.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LOVE AND ATTACHMENT. Though I share a huge amount about this in my courses, here’s the easiest way to break this down: • Attachment is based around fear of loss and the need to control. • LOVE is based around wanting freedom for all and encouraging another to THRIVE: No. Matter. What. • Attachment feels heavy, is filled with internal conflict, and everything is conditional; there are always b ehaviors that are “required” in order to stay in another’s (or your) good graces.

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LOVE feels light, clear, peaceful and joyful. It is unconditional, and there are no “requirements” or “required” behaviors. • When you operate from a place of attachment, you do whatever it takes to avoid losing the person/relationship because you don’t want to lose the feeling you think only they can give you. • When you operate from a place of LOVE, you act naturally and encourage the ones you love to do the same. As you can see, attachment is about controlling to avoid or “protect against,” whereas LOVE is simply about BEING—and anyone who has studied Law of Attraction knows that pushing against (a.k.a. resisting the flow of life), simply activates the very thing you want to protect against! Acting from or reacting to attachment creates more of the same. (bummer!) Acting from or responding with LOVE changes the game! Unfortunately, when it comes to family dynamics, the great majority of these relationships tend to be based more on attachment than LOVE. BUT… When you know the difference and can see that you or your tribe are asking the other to jump through hoops, throw your life out of balance, or to “not be selfish” and do this thing for ME (note the irony here, folks), please take a beat and think twice before answering the call of attachment. It does indeed take some mental muscle and keen awareness, but when you make LOVE your compass and your aim, you set a new point of attraction into motion, and EVERYONE ultimately wins.

Challenge: Before acting, asking, or responding to another, breathe and identify whether or not your next action is coming from attachment or LOVE. Choose your next action (or inaction) wisely and consciously.

COMMUNICATION AND COURAGE CAN CHANGE EVERYTHING. Even though you may share the same DNA or have decades of memories invested with your famiglia, it can be all-tooeasy to assume that your family members’ core values match yours exactly, that they see life the same way you do, and that they process emotions and experiences the same way. And let’s face it—when YOU think and feel a certain way about life that is as absolute for you as breathing, it’s difficult to imagine that anyone—especially your own flesh-and-blood—could possibly think or operate differently. Think again! A few weeks ago, I revisited a series of questions from my relationship course for singles* that explores what I call “The YOU-niversity”—which I expanded further for my 2nd course* regarding families, friends, couples and career-related relationships. When I delved into my current answers to these questions and

further discovered more about myself and a few willing loved ones, many of the things I thought I knew were quite a contrast to the reality of the moment! Though different family members were willing to go further into the questionnaires than others, even starting this process opened John and I up to conversations with our family that really helped to clear the air and bridge the gap for some invaluable and much-needed clarity. Having a deeper understanding of each others’ core values, what truly matters to each of us, what is needed for each to truly feel safe, well and loved, and what ACTUALLY brings joy, was eye-opening and helpful for ALL—and it’s far easier to have healthy, two-way conversations and be a great partner, parent, child, friend, etc. if you actually know who YOU are and what matters to YOU! Even if I had never shared these lists with another living soul, I also inadvertently gave myself a powerful gift—the gift of feeling heard and understood by ME. And, my friends, when you can provide that service for yourself and no longer “need” this from others, it can be the ultimate relationship game-changer! By the way: I’ve also started exchanging these lists with some of my closest friends and really love how it’s deepened these relationships too!

Challenge: Open a dialogue: Let the people you love know that what matters to them also matters to you, and ask them about their favorite things, their core values, what is needed for them to feel safe, well and loved, along with anything else that is inspired. Remember that you honor the ones you love the most by first getting to know thy SELF.

CHANGE THE PATTERN If you’ve had more than your fair share of “less-than” family interactions, one of the easiest ways to create a new groove is to change your tune. If you KNOW that you can easily get triggered by one of your tribe members, the last thing you need is to show up at the same time, in the same surroundings, wearing the same outfit, eating the same food, doing the same things. Instead, shake things up by: • Suggesting a different venue. • Choosing a different activity. • Meeting at a different time of day or frequency of getting together (instead of weekly get-togethers, space them out to every 10 days/etc.). • Ordering different food/drinks. • Wearing different clothes/perfume/cologne. It may not be the end-all-be-all resolution, but you are far more likely to experience a shift when YOU shift the experience. Another way to change the pattern? Bring the clearest, most aligned version of YOU to the family reunion: • Set an intention for how you want to feel and flow BEFORE leaving your home or engaging with others. • Put on happy, uplifting, confidence-boosting music BEFORE you arrive.

•

Think about what you DO and CAN appreciate and enjoy about the person/group of people you’re about to meet. • Listen to your inner compass (gut) to know if it’s best to go forward or give it a hard pass. • Remember that “showing up” in a crappy state of mind (and putting out the vibe that you truly do NOT want to be there) benefits no one. You deprive them of the gift of your true presence and throw even more logs on the fire of the old, icky momentum you were SO looking to change! And if others demand your presence even when you’ve said, “So sorry, not today,” this is attachment in action! An important note: If a relationship has become abusive or toxic, please consider removing yourself from that environment as soon as physically possible. There are times when it is truly best for all involved to love from afar.

CREATE A NEW FAMILY PARADIGM When it comes to family-related interactions, more often than not, humans just simply act and react to the existing paradigm that is in place, and when this IS conducive to a happy, healthy interaction for ALL, this can be a lovely thing, indeed. But if the reality of your family dynamic looks VERY different from the festive smiling holiday photos of the kids/parents/dog/cat all in matching outfits, and more like a battle scene from Lord of the Rings, perhaps it’s time to consider changing the paradigm. As I explored the “YOU-niversity” list regarding family roles and flow here’s the new paradigm I discovered for myself:

Family is: An individual or group who are able to love unconditionally, accept you as you are, cheer you on, offer a shoulder when you need it, support what matters to you, and allow each person to live and operate within their natural rhythm and flow.

Healthy families should behave/flow/ interact like this: • • • •

•

• • •

All of the above plus celebrate holidays and milestones together whenever possible and honor traditions that are constructive and catalysts for joy. Interactions feel relaxed, easy and natural for all. We communicate openly and honestly with each other and sort out disagreements STAT. No one asks the other to compromise themselves or what truly matters to them. No one asks or wants the other to suffer on their behalf, or throw their health, finances, or life out of balance to serve them. When something “out of character” happens, they give the other the benefit of the doubt (rather than assuming the worst from that person) and are willing to look at the big picture. All deserve love and respect and have every right to step away if respectful, two-way communication is not possible at the moment. True family “sees” you and allows for the growth, expansion and evolution of ALL. True family feels like “home.”

Challenge: What do YOU want to experience with your family? Create your NEW Family paradigm and encourage any willing family members to do the same. Open a dialogue and build bridges by identifying which values you DO share in common and what either party would be willing to include/add-on that would still fully honor both of your core values and keep each of you in a state of healthy balance and living authentically.

THE BOTTOM LINE: HEALTHY FAMILY MATTERS Imagine a world where humans truly love, support and encourage each other to live fully and authentically? If there is ANY way of setting the wheels of change in motion, perhaps the best place to start is in your own backyard? This holiday season—and in every season—I’d like to encourage you to give yourself and the ones who matter to you the gift of actual, true LOVE. It may take time, patience, practice and courage, but starting a new conversation can and will build a bridge to harmony, understanding, peace, and a deeper connection for the benefit of ALL. “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me**…” …and YOUR beautiful, HEALTHY family. **from the song,” Let There Be Peace on Earth” ~by Jill Jackson-Miller and Sy Miller, 1955 Author’s note: *By the way, if you love the idea of attracting & allowing healthy relationships of ALL types for yourself or helping others move forward with the relationships that matter to them, check out these courses: • Attracting Authentic Relationships for Singles Life Coach Certification Course (self love + attracting new love) • Law of Attraction Love & Relationships Life Coach Certification Course (upgrade & transform existing relationships)

ALLOWING YOUR SUCCESS with Terez “Firewoman” Hartmann

Terez “Firewoman” Hartmann is a Visionary Creative & top-rated instructor, Law of Attraction & Allowing YOUR Success specialist, published author, speaker, singer-songwriter, recording & performing artist & composer, “Catalyst for Fab-YOU-lous” and true Renaissance Woman who has already helped over 10,000 students in over 130 countries allow success and live life on FIRE. She is deeply passionate about helping other Powerful Creatives and Leading-Edge Thinkers live unique, empowered lives on their terms by cultivating the courage to dream, to express themselves boldly & authentically, and to focus Onward, Upward and Forward into new possibilities. http://www.terezfirewoman.com

NOT JUST A GAME! Each custom-designed deck of Just Ask 1 2 3 cards offers 53 thought-inspiring questions and a Directions card. A lovely organza gift bag is included to hold the cards for selecting.

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is a fun pathway to conversation, kindness and connection!

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Is it Love or Attachment?

Photo by Shingi Rice on Unsplash.

It is up to our hearts and souls to guide us to longer-lasting relationships through the true expression of love.

By Spencer Rouse Love is a complex and often misunderstood concept. It implies depth and layers of connection, understanding, joy and compassion. We use the word as though we understand it, but how often is there depth to what we mean? Attachment, on the other hand, is a bond that forms to satisfy the ego’s needs: survival, safety and security, whether physical or emotional. There is a tendency to muddle both connections and call it all love. This muddle forms a large part of my dialogue with clients. As an intuitive counselor, I help people sort out the confusion, pain and guilt that results from misunderstandings between family members, friends, coworkers and romantic partners. “Why does my mother-inlaw hate me? I haven’t done anything to her? Why is my best friend ghosting me on social media? When

will I meet my soul mate? My twin flame? Why am I always attracting men who are wrong for me? I want to be loved. I am a good person. I deserve it.” The questions may sound similar, but the conversations in each scenario need to connect specifically to the individual with patience, understanding and compassion: Love in action. We all have separate beliefs, desires, fears, challenges, aspirations and history. And we all want to be understood and loved. We all have desires that stem from the ego. It often gets a bum rap, but the ego has an important function. It is mainly responsible for the survival of our species. It helps us navigate the earth plane, which is why we are here in the first place. Through the ego, we learn to quickly distinguish between what feels safe and what does not— physically, mentally and emotionally. We learn what gives us pleasure and what gives us pain.

One downfall of depending upon the ego is that it is not a deep thinker. It tends to respond to immediate gratification—and that is where attachment arises. Attachment has no roots. It is not grounded. When we think attachment is love, we find it cannot withstand the turbulence of human interaction for long because it is self-centered—but that is the job of the ego. It is up to our hearts and souls to guide us to longer-lasting relationships through the true expression of love. I believe that the deep longing for love comes from feeling separated from the most benevolent, loving Source, where all souls know themselves to be an equal part of the whole, loved, protected, understood and joyful. Each of us on Earth has chosen to experience the illusion that we are separate, and we learn step by step what it is to return to love from a struggle to survive and 27

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash.

thrive on our own. It is only an illusion. We are watched over and protected, but since we have chosen this experience, our protectors are not allowed to make decisions. We have to ask for help.

In the deep recesses of our soul, we remember the beauty of our connection to the Source. We have a role model to learn how to understand and respect our needs, usually through challenges, and then we learn

to understand and respect the different needs of others without shame, blame or guilt. That’s when we develop deep love for others; we love them the way they are, freely, with no strings. We accept them as they come to us: no manipulation or hidden expectations. We feel the peace, connection and joy that come from understanding and experiencing the path of others through our connection with them. Their challenges may not be our challenges, but we can gain understanding and develop compassion by learning from the perspectives of others. For instance, when our relationship is as a caregiver or healer, our understanding can lead to identifying and potentially helping another resolve the root cause of their challenge. To truly help someone, we need to understand from the depth of love what has caused the situation so we can support them and guide them as they heal. We are individuals, and we also are equals. We may disagree or dislike the words and actions of some, but a deep love of others enables us to honor everyone’s freedom to experience the wisdom gained from their own paths, whether we agree with them or not. It is not for us to condemn the soul who triggers us. As we live with the profound principles of love, we feel the barriers to love dissolving. Our path becomes more straightforward. We feel joy in the small things around us. Peace enters with a calming stillness. We feel at one with all that is.

Elemental Wisdom with Spencer Rouse Spencer Rouse has been a professional psychic and intuitive reader, energy healer, life coach, and lecture/workshop facilitator for more than 20 years, working one-on-one in counseling sessions, in groups, and at psychic fairs and other events. She works primarily through the gifts of claircognizance—an inner knowing—and clairsentience—the ability to sense information through feelings and emotions. Spencer also connects with the different layers of the human energy field (the aura) using color and sound to help balance and invigorate life force energy. Visit her online at http://www.SpencerRouse.com or email PsychicSpencer.com.

Graduation 2023

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Born with promise and possibility, the stresses and anxieties of the past year threatened to break us in half—but they didn’t. By Jo Mooy Like the beginning of a new school year, January 2023 was full of promise and potential. Many set out their hopes and dreams, putting them into shiny containers, determined that 2023 would be better than 2022. The intentions were encouraging and written down with conviction. A mini-survey of my spiritual community revealed their intentions ranged from the idealistic to the mundane, and from personal desires on better behavior or improved health, to world appeals for unity and more compassion. My intentions were for two personal improvements. On New Year’s Day I began a ritual when I woke up. First, I asked for patience, and then I asked for detachment when witnessing situations outside my control. At the close of the ritual, I asked that whatever occurred each day would have the most benevolent outcome. For the whole year, I sought to do something well with that prayer. Having more patience would allow me to see things for what they were and understand better the lessons being taught. More importantly, I could witness my reactions and develop ease with whatever was unfolding without getting caught up in the drama. However, letting go of personal entanglements and detaching from them was hard. Some had years of spaghetti-like chains to unravel. I found it much simpler to take a knife and cut through them instead of trying to untangle the

Gordian Knot. Otherwise, I’d find myself stuck in the quagmire, disentangling the old stuff of the past, instead of getting on with other things needing to be done in the present. Looking back over the 12 months, many of the best wishes for 2023 collapsed, dimming the shine on the glorious hopes of the intention setters. The Ukraine war didn’t end. Mahsa Amini’s death changed little in Iran. Political divisiveness exploded like it was on steroids. Even Mother Nature rebelled causing catastrophic disasters from flooding, record-breaking heat, volcanoes, earthquakes, and massive fires across the world. It felt like the world was breaking apart. Would it, or we, survive? Perhaps this metaphor answers the question. I have a glass lotus bowl that’s filled with Siesta Key sand. It serves as an incense holder. One day there was a loud crack. I found the lotus bowl lying in two pieces with the sand and incense debris all over the coffee table. Unperturbed, I remembered the Japanese art of Kintsugi where broken items can be repaired instead of tossed out. I repaired the lotus bowl with epoxy glue that I mixed with gold metallic paint. The lotus bowl now sports a big rip through the middle but the seam is covered in gold. It survived the heat of incense, the pressure of the sand, and monthly water cleanings before it broke in half. However, once repaired, it stood stronger than before. And the golden break through the center tells a powerful story about its character and endurance. 31

Photo by Patty Brito on Unsplash.

Things are always much stronger where they’re broken. The breaks mean they’ve been tested by fires, upheavals and disappointments. Yet, have come out the other side sturdier, tougher, even mellower and more resilient than before. The year 2023 was a lot like that. Born with promise and possibility, the stresses and anxieties threatened to break us in half. But they didn’t. Despite the troubles, the right and left politics, the environmental catastrophes, we somehow got through it. We built cocoons in our homes and through the communities. We turned to these sanctuaries to get through the year. In those havens, built with loving friends who would come with aid should it be needed, hope stayed alive. In that community, governed only by love and caring, there was always contentment and tranquility. In that blessed place, like students completing a year of hell, we graduated from 2023. Better prepared for the next hurdles, our light stays lit. Flowers continue to bloom, birds still sing, and friends remind us they’re still there. Like graduation day, toss your caps into the sky in celebration because we made it through 2023! And like the repaired lotus bowl, we’ll be so much stronger for what was endured and overcome. With a lot of help from the community.

Conscious Living with Jo Mooy

Jo Mooy has studied with many spiritual traditions over the past 40 years. The wide diversity of this training allows her to develop spiritual seminars and retreats that explore inspirational concepts, give purpose and guidance to students, and present esoteric teachings in an understandable manner. Along with Patricia Cockerill, she has guided the Women’s Meditation Circle since January 2006 where it has been honored for five years in a row as the “Favorite Meditation” group in Sarasota, FL, by Natural Awakenings Magazine. Teaching and using Sound as a retreat healing practice, Jo was certified as a Sound Healer through Jonathan Goldman’s Sound Healing Association. She writes and publishes a monthly internationally distributed e-newsletter called Spiritual Connections and is a staff writer for Spirit of Maat magazine in Sedona. For more information go to http://www.starsoundings.com or email jomooy@gmail.com.

Find out more at: TRUTHSPEAKSCOACHING.COM

Find the Light

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It takes a keen eye, a willing heart, to stay open to the possibility that there is magic happening right before our eyes. By Mary Boutieller Over these last few weeks, I’ve been witness to the Universe’s paintbrush bringing yellows, golds, oranges and reds to once-green trees. It’s as if God, in all her infinite wisdom, decided that beauty should not be held tight to the chest but released to the masses, so that they could remember that they, too, are deserving of this magnificent show. In times like this, I’m reminded of what brings us together—this common need to feel something outside of ourselves, without reservation or expectation. Just the jaw-dropping spectacle of nature. So simple, yet so profound. I know these moments of joy and harmony can’t be held onto forever. Even now, the leaves are falling and turning brown. If I hold on too tight or wish for it to be different than it is, then my disappointment will taint the next moment of joy just waiting to be revealed. The question is: Can I accept what is and not let my heart sink into winter’s despair? Can I stay open to ALL of it—the beauty, the darkness, the letting go?

By now, you may have guessed that I’m talking about more than the leaves. Awful things are happening in the world, and it can be difficult to find the light that makes each day a miracle. It takes a keen eye, a willing heart, to stay open to the possibility that there is magic happening right before our eyes. We just have to pause and purposely take it in. A yellow leaf floats through the air suspended by currents that I cannot see. A neighbor stops what he is doing long enough to say hello. The sun dips below the horizon and reveals nuanced beauty in the clouds and trees. I walk up a steep hill and feel my breath and my legs, and I know I am alive. I’m alive, and I owe it to myself and to you to find the light. Amanda Gorman said, “There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” The clouds will come and they will go. Yet, each day the sun rises, undeterred, bringing us the light we need to find our way, reminding us that this, too, shall pass. It also reminds me to let go…as the sun does every evening, as the heart does after heartbreak, as the leaves, and the world, does over and over again.

The Yoga of Life with Mary Boutieller Mary Boutieller is a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. She has been teaching yoga since 2005. Her work experience includes 22 years as a firefighter/paramedic and 10 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist. Mary’s knowledge and experience give her a well-rounded understanding of anatomy, alignment, health and movement in the body. She is passionate about the benefits of yoga and the ability to heal at all levels through awareness, compassion, and a willingness to explore. She can be reached at: SimplyogaOm@gmail.com.

The Significance of Service

Service given with a higher motivation, as it turns out, is a fast track to spiritual enlightenment.

Photo by Andreea Teban on Unsplash.

By Owen Waters Enlightenment through service is not a new idea. It has existed for thousands of years as Karma Yoga, the spiritual path of enlightenment through right action. The difference is, today, the necessary frequency of consciousness has become readily available to everyone as the quantum leap to a spiritually-based revolution in consciousness has just happened. I have long been intrigued by ancient teachings claiming that a higher form of service to others is a fast track to spiritual enlightenment. The Bhagavad Gita, for example, states quite clearly that, while “selfish” work produces karmic bondage, “unselfish” work leads to nirvana. That’s quite a promise, that a higher form of service is a spiritual path that leads all the way to the ultimate state of consciousness! After wondering why this should be for over 50 years of unrelenting metaphysical curiosity, the answer finally clicked. First, I asked what could be meant by a higher form of service? Obviously, servitude is not the answer. Servitude is a lower form of work where the person is compelled to labor at activity in which they have no creative part. Service given with a higher motivation, as it turns out, is a FAST TRACK to spiritual enlightenment. Astoundingly, being an active practice, it can be TEN TIMES more effective than time spent in passive forms of meditation! The key to this fast track to enlightenment and insightful living is to perform work from the new, enlightened basis of consciousness. Now, let’s see what that means by comparing the kind of work or service activity that occurs at that and the other different levels of consciousness.

FREQUENCIES OF CONSCIOUSNESS USED IN SERVICE

Conformist Stage: Work carried out with this basic mindset could better be called servitude. In this state of consciousness,

people feel compelled to do disagreeable work in exchange for money to support their basic life functions. Supervisors are tasked with providing the motivation for workers to perform adequately. Workers watch the clock, waiting each day for the time to arrive for release from their drudgery. Intellectual Stage: This is typically creative professional or entrepreneurial work is based on a self-focused motivation for status and wealth. While performance is self-motivated, not imposed upon them, the person may still not like their work, in which case their goal may then be to amass enough wealth to retire early and quit working as soon as possible (as in the Financial Independence Retire Early movement). The best way to survive and thrive within this stage is to avoid its tendency toward the double-edged sword of aggressive competition. In a free marketplace, if you produce high quality goods or services at a fair price, customers will like you and keep coming back. Communal Stage: A person slips into this level of consciousness while being absorbed in work they like doing. In this state of Flow of consciousness, time seems to slip by unnoticed. As a result, they become highly skilled in their chosen activity and therefore produce high quality work, which increases the value of their service to society. The beginnings of heart-centered consciousness can also add social meaning to one’s work, amplifying its value in raising the person’s frequency of consciousness. Enlightened Stage: This stage of active heart-centered consciousness brings service as love in action. A polarity switch occurs between the previous stage and this stage of heart-motivated service to others. Heart-centered service is the polar opposite of servitude. The more time you spend active in this stage, the more enlightenment dawns within your mind and your understanding of life increases exponentially. This is why this stage of service—love in action—is ten times more effective in developing enlightenment than passive meditation. Author’s Note: Discover how modern studies have thrown new light upon the Enlightened Stage of consciousness, making spiritual growth more accessible than ever...https://www. infinitebeing.com/ebooks/newenlightenment.htm

iNFINITE BEING with Owen K. Waters Owen Waters is author of the Indie award-winning book, Spirituality Made Simple and a cofounder of the Spiritual Dynamics Academy and InfiniteBeing.com, where a where a free spiritual growth newsletter awaits you at https://www.InfiniteBeing.com. He is an international spiritual teacher who has helped hundreds of thousands of spiritual seekers to understand better the nature of their spiritual potential. Owen’s life has been focused upon gaining spiritual insights through extensive research and the development of his inner vision. He has written a spiritual metaphysics newsletter since 2004 which empowers people to discover their own new vistas of inspiration, love and creativity. Spiritual seekers enjoy his writings for their clarity and deep insights. Contact Owen via email News@InfiniteBeing.com.

BOOST YOUR LOCAL Boost Your Local SEO

SEO

How to add keywords to your Google Business Profile and Increase visibility. By Jowanna Daley Are you tired of feeling invisible online? Do you want to drive more traffic to your local business? Well, my friend, I have fantastic news for you! There’s an entire world looking for you in your hometown. You can help them find you by diving into keywords and how they can work wonders when added to your Google Business Profile. Get ready to supercharge your local SEO game!

WHAT IS A KEYWORD?

First things first—let’s talk about what a keyword is. Think of it as a secret password that unlocks the door leading customers straight to your doorstep in search engine results. These are words or phrases related to your business niche that people commonly use when looking for products or services like yours. Wouldn’t it be great if your business appeared at the top of Google’s search results when people in your market searched for relevant keywords? That’s where our dear friend Google Business Profile comes into play.

ADDING KEYWORDS TO YOUR GOOGLE BUSINESS PROFILE

Google Business Profile isn’t just an ordinary listing; it’s like having a spotlight shining brightly

on all aspects of your brand. Customers can easily find your location and contact information and learn what sets you apart from competitors. But here’s where things start getting interesting when it comes to upping your digital marketing game: To improve your search rankings, include relevant keywords in different parts of your profile, like the description, categories and attributes. This will help the web crawlers understand the content of your profile better. In other words: boom! You increase visibility across various search queries explicitly related to you! Let’s walk through an example to pull everything together. Imagine owning The Garden Oasis Café— an enchanting little haven nestled amidst bustling city streets—a dream come true for nature-loving foodies seeking serene surroundings while savoring culinary delights. If somebody typed “cozy café surrounded by greenery” or “organic farm-to-table experience,” guess whose place would pop up? Yup, yours! The same is true for life coaches. Make sure you add keywords that describe your nice and ideal customer so that you will stand apart from other professionals in the area. But don’t stop there. Google Business Profile lets you display your latest offers, emphasize customer reviews, and share updates about events or promotions. With all this interactive content combined with the power of well-placed keywords, attracting local customers becomes a breeze!

The Daley Word with Jowanna Daley Jowanna is a business and personal coach, consultant, freelance blogger, and personal brand photographer. Jowanna uses her 20-plus years of business, information technology, business analysis, and project management experience to serve solopreneurs, microbusinesses, and professionals through consulting, coaching, training, and workshops. She is also a freelance blogger who serves corporate and non-corporate clients. Visit her website at https://www.jowannadaley.com/about/.

Photo by Etty Fidele on Unsplash.

Executive Coaching

For business leaders under pressure to deliver results, coaching is a powerful tool for both professional and personal growth. By Marla J. Albertie

a coach’s role is to offer candid assessments. This feedback can be a game-changer, as it helps executives idenSo now you are an executive! Guess what? You tify blind spots, capitalize on strengths, and work on areas that need improvement. Remember the coach is still need a coach. In today’s fast-paced and competitive business unbiased, so executives should feel free to be transparworld, executives are constantly under pressure to de- ent and open. liver results, lead teams and make critical decisions. But let’s not forget you are human and probably have a life outside of work. The demands of these roles can be overEven the most accomplished executives can benwhelming, often leaving little time for self-reflection and efit from leadership development. A coach works with an personal development. This is where executive coaching executive to identify their leadership style, strengths and comes into play. While coaching was once seen as a reme- weaknesses. They help develop strategies to enhance dial measure, it has now become a powerful tool for both leadership skills, communication and emotional intellipersonal and professional growth. gence. By doing so, executives become more effective in Here are eight reasons why executives need a motivating and leading their teams. coach and how coaching can significantly impact success:

3. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

1. NAVIGATING COMPLEXITY

Executives often face complex challenges that require a high level of expertise and strategic thinking. From managing organizational change to making decisions with far-reaching consequences, the stakes are high. A coach provides a safe space for executives to discuss these challenges, gain clarity and explore solutions. Through insightful questions and guidance, coaches help executives navigate complexity with confidence.

4. WORK-LIFE HARMONY

The relentless demands of an executive role can take a toll on work-life harmony. It’s not uncommon for executives to neglect their personal lives as they dedicate long hours to their jobs. Coaches help executives strike a balance, ensuring they not only excel in their careers but also maintain a fulfilling personal life. Again, remember you and your family always come first, your team will admire this.

5. GOAL SETTING AND One of the invaluable benefits of having a coach ACCOUNTABILITY

2. OBJECTIVE FEEDBACK

is receiving objective feedback. While colleagues and A coach plays a crucial role in helping executives subordinates may hesitate to provide honest feedback, set goals and stay accountable. They work together to

Photo by Zahir Namane on Unsplash.

define clear objectives, create action plans and track progress. This structured approach keeps executives on the path to success.

6. IMPROVED DECISIONMAKING

Sound decision-making is at the core of effective leadership. A coach assists executives in honing their decision-making skills. Through reflection and analysis, executives can make better-informed choices that benefit both their organizations and themselves.

7. STRESS MANAGEMENT

The executive role can be extremely stressful. High-pressure situations and constant decision-making can lead to burnout. Coaches provide executives with tools and strategies for stress management. This not only enhances their well-being but also boosts their overall performance.

8. CONFIDENTIALITY AND SUPPORT

Executives often find themselves in isolated positions, with no one to confide in. A coach offers a confidential and supportive relationship where executives can discuss their concerns, fears, and aspirations without judgment. This level of support is invaluable. The journey to becoming a successful executive is not one to be traveled alone. With the guidance of a coach, executives can hone their leadership skills, navigate challenges, and achieve a harmonious work-life balance. In a competitive business landscape, executive coaching has become a vital tool that empowers leaders to realize their full potential and drive organizational success. Executives who recognize the value of coaching invest in their personal and professional growth, ultimately reaping the rewards in the form of enhanced leadership, better decision-making, and a more fulfilling career.

Marla J. Albertie is the founder Truth Speaks Group, LLC, a multi-media coaching company dedicated to creating solutions for integrating work and life to create harmony. Marla loves to read, is a concert and comedy show junkie and a cruiser for life. Follow Marla on Twitter @tspeakscoaching and IG @Tspeaksgroup. Sign up for the Truth Speaks Group LLC Newsletter at https://www.truthspeakscoaching.com/.