Transformation Coaching Magazine May 2024

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PUBLISHERS

Natalie Rivera

Joeel A. Rivera, M.Ed.

EDITOR

Lisa Cedrone

CONTRIBUTORS

Darrel Hammon, Linda Commito, Terez Hartmann, Christine Morse, Marla Albertie, Spencer Rouse, GELENA P, Owen Waters, Mary Boutieller, Jo Mooy

RISING STAR Rising Star Coach: Niki Cepeda 4 INSPIRATION & GROWTH Discover the Holistic You 8 It’s Never Too Late! 12 #NFW! 16 In Alignment 24 Holding Tension 36 I Won the Powerball! 38 COACHING AND BUSINESS TOOLS How to Reach Your Audience 20 Unlocking Potential 22 FEED YOUR SPIRIT The Unseen Path 28 The Nature of the Soul 32
© Copyright 2024 Transformation Services, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.TransformationMag.com

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.

Listen on our website or your favorite podcast app or watch the video version on our YouTube channel.

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Here at Transformation Academy we are excited to announce our May’s Transformation Academy Rising Star – Niki Cepeda!

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 diverse 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 NIKI:

Niki Cepeda, 131 Silva Court, Folsom, CA 95630

nikithecoach@gmail.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikicepeda

https://www.facebook.com/nikicepeda

The LinkedIn Growth Queen

"Discovering your true calling is a revelation like no other—it ignites a fire within you!"

Niki, the Transformational Mindset Coach and The LinkedIn Growth Queen, is a beacon of empowerment and innovation in the coaching world. With two decades of experience in human resources and recruitment, coupled with a decade-long tenure in sales, Niki brings a unique blend of expertise to her practice. Her passion lies in guiding individuals—particularly speakers, authors, coaches, and entrepreneurs—towards unlocking their full potential and achieving their goals. Through her signature approach, Niki empowers clients to navigate mindset barriers, optimize LinkedIn strategies, and harness the power of human behavior for success. With a focus on authenticity and growth, Niki is dedicated to helping others thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

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

My niche focuses on empowering mid-level professionals in speaking, authorship and coaching to reach new heights in their careers and personal development. I chose this niche because I saw a gap in the market for professionals who were seeking guidance to break through income plateaus, adapt to evolving market trends, and embrace innovation in online marketing strategies.

WHO IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT?

My ideal client is a dynamic personal growth leader or aspiring coach who is committed to personal development and

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empowerment. They are seeking practical guidance to streamline their business operations, build sustainable business models, and make a positive impact in their respective fields.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A LIFE COACH?

My own journey of personal growth and overcoming challenges inspired me to become a life coach. I wanted to use my experiences and knowledge to help others navigate their own obstacles, achieve their goals, and lead more fulfilling lives.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN COACHING?

I have been coaching for more than 20 years. I actually started coaching while I was in the recruitment field, but it wasn’t until I really needed a Life Coach for myself, in 2018, did I actually even consider moving myself into the industry officially. I love building and continuously enriching my skills and experiences to better serve my clients.

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR FIRST CLIENT?

When I first decided to really venture into the industry after leaving my corporate role, I went to my first “coaching event”, which really was my very first introduction to entrepreneurship in the self-development Industry. This is where I captured my first clients. No products or idea what the heck I was doing. I encourage my clients that it’s all a mindset and the desire to take a risk on yourself!

HOW HAS YOUR COACHING JOURNEY CHANGED YOUR LIFE?

Coaching has not only allowed me to make a positive impact on others’ lives and businesses, but has also deepened

my own self-awareness and personal growth. It has provided me with a sense of fulfillment and purpose, knowing that I am helping others achieve their full potential.

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

One of the most challenging parts of being a Transformational Mindset Coach and The LinkedIn Growth Queen is navigating the diverse needs and expectations of clients, while maintaining authenticity and integrity in my coaching approach. Sometimes you want your clients success more than they want it for themselves.

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

Witnessing the transformation and growth of my clients as they overcome obstacles, achieve their goals, and live more fulfilling lives. As well as seeing them have breakthroughs and realizations while in the process of moving their businesses forward.

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

Among the most memorable experiences I’ve shared with a client was during our deep dive into mindset work. This individual was grappling with limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome, feeling inadequate and doubting their worth in the coaching arena. Together, we delved into the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Coaching, dissecting their thoughts and beliefs. Witnessing their transformation from self-doubt to

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self-empowerment was truly remarkable. It’s incredible how shedding light on those negative patterns paved the way for a shift towards a more supportive and empowering mindset.

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

I’m absolutely passionate about employing Mindset and Cognitive Behavioral Coaching techniques. There’s something truly empowering about delving into the intricacies of the mind. Strengthening your mindset is akin to fortifying your foundation as an entrepreneur. It’s the cornerstone of resilience and success in the challenging landscape of business ownership.

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

The most impactful strategy for attracting clients and fostering business growth begins with a steadfast commitment to taking action and maintaining consistency. Personally, I find LinkedIn to be a valuable tool for lead generation. However, I always encourage my clients to utilize the social platforms where their target audience is most active. My approach emphasizes a holistic organic social media strategy alongside in-person networking events. As your business matures, incorporating paid ads can significantly amplify your online presence and marketing efforts throughout the year. It’s crucial to establish a structured strategy and system that you can faithfully follow, ensuring consistency that yields sustainable results.

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

If I could sit down with my former self before stepping into the roles of Transformational Mindset Coach and The LinkedIn Growth Queen, I’d offer a reassuring truth: Not everyone is cut out for the traditional employee path, and that’s perfectly alright. Each stint in the corporate world served as a beacon, guiding me towards my entrepreneurial destiny. Discovering your true calling is a revelation like no other—it ignites a fire within you! The individuals you

connect with along this journey become your greatest source of inspiration and motivation. I’m eagerly anticipating your growth as a coach and the profound impact you’ll have on the lives you touch. Here’s to embracing the journey with heartfelt gratitude!

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

The impact I aspire to create in this world is simple yet profound. I aim to empower individuals I encounter, equipping them with the tools to harness the power of their minds and shape their own definitions of success. It’s about paving the way for those who come after me, and inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and growth. Ultimately, I strive to be a catalyst for positive change, leaving a legacy of courage, resilience and possibility in my wake.

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

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, the journey is marked by both peaks of triumph and valleys of uncertainty. It’s a path that demands not only grit and determination, but also a resilient mindset capable of weathering the storms.

Continual growth and learning are paramount in this dynamic environment. Staying relevant in your niche and industry means embracing a mindset of perpetual evolution. It’s about recognizing that success isn’t just about reaching a destination, but also about the journey of constant improvement and adaptation.

As a passionate advocate for personal and professional development, I understand the significance of nurturing a robust mindset that can withstand the challenges of entrepreneurship. That’s why I’m dedicated to providing valuable resources and support to help you fortify your mental resilience and thrive in any circumstance.

I invite you to connect with me on LinkedIn (https:// www.LinkedIn.com/in/nikicepeda) and Facebook (https:// www.facebook.com/nikicepeda) to join our community of like-minded individuals committed to growth and success. Don’t forget to grab my free LinkedIn Optimizer at https:// www.nikicepeda.com/linkedin-optimizer to optimize your online presence and unlock new opportunities.

Together, let’s embrace the journey of growth, resilience, and success!

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Pathways to Connecting:

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.

Just Ask 1 2 3 is a fun pathway to conversation, kindness and connection! Only $15.95

Deck 1 Easing In – playful questions to break the ice & have fun!

Deck 2 Getting Closer – thought-provoking questions to get to know each other better . . . including ourselves.

Deck 3 Deepening Conversation – Insightful questions that invite sharing experiences and reflections on life and relationships.

Deck 4 Daring to Divulge – Provocative questions that spark deeper conversations and encourage meaningful connections.

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NOT JUST
JustAsk123.com & LoveIstheNewCurrency.com
A GAME!
Photo by Isabel Pohjanen on Unsplash.

When we become more holistic, we can understand things in greater clarity and wisdom.

Over the years, I have discovered that human beings are not onedimensional or one-sided. Rather, we are a holistic lot and possess great skill sets in holistic dimensions. What makes up a holistic you? Well, that depends on the person and their experiences, but they usually hover in and around the following six areas.

FAMILY

My wife, daughters, sons-inlaw, and grandchildren, siblings make up my immediate family. I love them, and they have become the biggest part of my life. Not all of them live close, but thanks to airplanes, cars, the Internet, text, Zoom, and, yes, even letters and cards that I actually write in, I can see or connect with them as often as I want. Family is an important part of my holistic journey. They have helped me become who I am!

FAITH

My faith is incredibly important to me. It is the foundation of all my thoughts and actions. I know I am a child of God, a loving Heavenly Father who loves me and wants me to become like He is. As a result, when I was a young 19-year-old country boy from Idaho, I decided to serve a mission for my Church. I was assigned to southern Chile and spent two years teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was one of the most incredible journeys I have ever been on. Fast forward a couple of decades, and my wife and I served an 18-month mission to the Caribbean and lived in the Dominican Republic. Fast forward another few years, and we served as mission leaders in southern California for three years—all on our dime. My faith has increased, I learned that my Heavenly

Father loves me even more than I previously thought, and I have elevated my holistic views of so many things.

EDUCATION

Post-secondary education was not necessarily something my parents insisted on. Yes, obtaining good grades was always important. My dad had dropped out of school, went into the military, and then earned his GED after returning home. Fortunately, I had incredible friends who knew they were going to college. I remember well a hot day in the summer when I was 14 years old, moving sprinkler pipe in a large potato field in eastern Idaho. Mud caked me from head to toe, mosquitos were trying to suck the blood from me—and being quite successful—and I was hot and tired. I just stood there on top of a rock pile in the middle of the field overlooking a little pond of water and listening to frogs croak. I thought to myself: “I do not want to do this for the rest of my life” and determined to go to college like my friends. My epiphany that day opened my eyes to an elevated level of understanding my future. My openness to learning has made me more holistic to learn new things and become a lifelong learner.

LEADERSHIP

For some reason, I have been blessed to be a leader for most of my life—In my youth as a youth leader in Church, as a Boy Scout (I earned the Eagle Scout Award), as a young missionary in Chile, in my workplaces, including becoming the president of two community colleges and a mission leader for my Church. Being in leadership positions has definitely elevated my holistic understanding of people, systems, missions, plans, partnerships, communities and strategies.

As an emerging leader, I tried my best to be observant and watchful of adult leaders. Some were decent, but the overwhelming majority of them were spectacular and were my mentors growing up, into adulthood, and even now. I still watch and observe leaders, young and maturing. I believe all people are born leaders. Some live up to their billing, and others do not. Some squander the leadership capabilities, trying to hide their talents or choosing not to perform. The key to leadership is to continue to learn from your mistakes and becoming more holistic in your approach to solving problems and challenges and creating opportunities for others to succeed!

TALENTS AND GIFTS

Every single person on the planet Earth has been blessed with gifts and talents. Most of them are latent until we utilize and learn more about them. For me, I have always liked to write and majored in English at college, thinking I was going to be an attorney and write my way into the history books. Alas, that did not work out, and I maneuvered through the teaching ranks and into administration, although I always taught along the way. Another gift I possess is the ability to stand in front of people and talk. Yes, I am always nervous, but that subsides after I get going. A talent/gift that I would love to have is watercolor painting. Yes, I have taken a couple of watercolor classes. I am still not very good at it, but I keep trying and see a bit of improvement along the way. I have learned so many things from my classes, from K-12 through undergraduate and graduate school, three degrees and a boatload of continuing education classes and reading books. These have made me more holistic in my thinking and doing and becoming.

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FITNESS AND HEALTH

Fitness and health are things that many people do worry about. When we were kids, we lived in the country, had access to fields and woods, rode bicycles everywhere and fished, and played a lot of basketball and softball. Even until my 40s, I played basketball at 5:00 a.m. three times per week. Now, unfortunately, I cringe just thinking about playing basketball. Yes, my wife and I still exercise close to five days per week at our local recreation center, ride our bikes in the summer, and walk along our local river trail—all this to just to maintain our health and stay moderately fit. Trying to be fit has raised my sights about being healthy, thus allowing me to be more holistically engaged in so many areas that many are not able to do.

To become holistic, you must plan ahead, make goals, and, especially, create strategies to enhance your life and elevate your thinking and doing. When we become more holistic, we can understand things in greater clarity and wisdom. When we understand our holistic selves, we are more grounded and simultaneously, more elevated in our thoughts, our choices, our comings and goings, our actions, our fitness and health, how we treat people and how we live our lives. Becoming holistic enhances our lives.

I invite you to seek your holistic self and strive to enhance the way you think, live, and function.

Darrel L. Hammon has been dabbling in writing in a variety of genres since his college days, having published poetry, academic and personal articles/essays, a book titled Completing Graduate School Long Distance (Sage Publications), and a picture book, The Adventures of Bob the Bullfrog: Christmas Beneath a Frozen Lake (Outskirts Press). He also was the editor of the Journal of Adult Education (Mountain Plains Adult Education Association). Most of his essay/article writing has focused on topics about growing up, leadership, self-awareness, motivation, marriage/dating, and educational topics. Some of these articles/essays are in Spanish because Darrel is bilingual in Spanish/English, having lived in Chile, Dominican Republic, and southern California, and having worked with Latino youth and families all of his professional life in higher education. He has two blogs, one for personal writing at http://www.darrelhammon.blogspot.com/ and one for his consulting/life coaching business (http://www.hammonconsults.blogspot.com/).

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Photo by Osarugue Igbinoba on Unsplash.
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out more at: TRUTHSPEAKSCOACHING.COM
Find

Rachelle Zola’s commitment to make a difference and bring about positive changes in our

world.

There are some people who see a need in the world, and can’t NOT do something about it—and in a BIG WAY! Rachelle Zola is such a person. I have the utmost respect

for Rachelle and the ways she has chosen to make a difference, and I sometimes wonder where she gets this compulsion and courage to change the world that is well beyond what most of us would even consider, never mind do.

I first met Rachelle in Colorado in 2004 at a “Celebration of Life” for a mutual friend. We developed a friendship, hiking many trails in the Rockies. It came as a surprise when, in 2007, Rachelle announced that she was joining the Peace Corp. She moved

to Jordan for a year, and was assigned to work with children with developmental disabilities. It was there that she celebrated her 60th birthday amongst the young volunteers.

Several years later, in 2016, she had airline tickets to visit Ecuador when an earthquake hit the country. She still went, falling in love with the young children she visited at an orphanage, and ended up volunteering there for a year.

Whilst many people love walking the Camino de Santiago as a spiritual journey, Rachelle chose to take a solo walking pilgrimage around Shikoku Island, Japan with a 25-pound backpack, visiting 88 Buddhist monasteries. Despite being alone, she always felt protected, surrounded by love and kindness.

Rachelle Zola follows her inner guidance system. At 75, she is undertaking a mission to call attention to the inequalities and lack of justice for African Americans through storytelling. She had moved to Chicago, IL in 2019, wanting to engage with the Black and Brown communities—and to LISTEN! She kept showing up, and people began sharing their lived experiences. She has made it her mission to let others know what so many experienced and suffered for generations in our country and that continues today.

In 2021 Rachelle went on a hunger strike for 40 days to show her support for reparations for African Americans. She soon learned from the many people with whom she engaged, that she had no idea of the depth of the harm and trauma that Black

Photo by Andy Swindle. Rachelle Zola Photo by Alejandra.

On April 2,,2024, Rachelle

people experience every day as a result of systemic racism. And starting on April 2nd 2024, Rachelle embarked on what may be her biggest challenge—a 754 mile walk from Chicago to Montgomery, AL, during which she will be performing her one-woman show: Late A Love Story. You can follow Rachelle’s journey or find out how you can help by going to her website: https://www.latealovestory.com

I am grateful for the inspiration of heroines like Rachelle Zola, who do not let fear dictate how they will live, and teach us that “it is never too late” to live a conscious and more purposeful life. They choose to take a leap of faith as they commit to bringing about positive changes in our world. It makes us aware that there are people who care so deeply that they cannot rest until they do

something about what they see as an injustice. Rachelle will not accept living in a society where equality is not a reality for everyone.

We each have our own life path to walk. What we can choose to do is to support the efforts of those who have compelling visions for positive change, and to live our everyday lives in a way that can help to create a more loving, equitable, kinder 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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embarked on what may be her biggest challenge—a 754 mile walk from Chicago to Montgomery, AL. Photo by Andy Swindle.
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The magic word that turns “negative” into positive!

WHY “NO” IS NOT THE BAD GUY

The Universe doesn’t hear, “no”, and if we say “no” to anything we are pushing against/resisting the flow of life, right?

But when presented with an option that compromises your health, well-being, and that just flat out feels 100 shades of wrong, there comes a time when the best answer IS “no”—or even “#NFW!” (No. F***ing. Way!)

So many humans have been taught to listen to the guru or trend of the moment, to always be polite, and to especially ensure that we don’t do or say anything that could ever potentially rock someone else’s boat, or to hurt or harm another in any form or fashion. Add to this:

– The current “Say yes to everything” trend

– Being told that the only noble and valid way to live is to make it your perpetual mission to continually “get out of your comfort zone”

– The pressure to ensure you are never perceived as a “Debbie Downer” or “Karen”

– Plus, the plain, old-fashioned fear of rejection …and it has become clear that, from a spiritual or social perspective, speaking or feeling the word, “no” can feel like the ultimate human “sin.”

Many of you who know me know that spreading love, light and positivity is my THING, so a few of you may be wondering if I have fallen off the proverbial spiritual wagon or have forgotten how Law of Attraction operates, but here’s the thing: When you know what works for you vs. what doesn’t (especially if you’ve been alive for a little while) and what truly feeds your well-being vs. what diminishes your peace and joy—contrary to popular belief—having the courage to say no (or even #NFW!) to something that is clearly not a match to what feels right to you in ANY universe, is often THE best way to say “yes” to a healthy life, self-respect, living authentically, moving forward, realizing your dreams, and truly honoring the people who matter!

The key is (and always has been) the ENERGY behind the word, so when used with very clear intention, that scary little two-letter word can actually be your BFF in your quest to live your best life!

Here are a few examples of using “no” or “#NFW!” in ways that are actually HELPFUL and POSITIVE:

#NFW! HEALTH & WELLNESS

My “Yes”: I want to feed my health and well-being with food, drink, ways of focusing, and actions that feel energizing, enjoyable, soothing, friendly and life-giving.

So, to honor this intention and my personal integrity, when offered ideas like ice baths, extreme-anything, watching disturbing or gory films, or consuming food and drink that are linked with an unpleasant reception in my body, I say “yes” to healthy and happy by saying “no” to things like this.

A side note: These types of things may be ideal for under-stimulated personality types, those who respond to extremes, or those who have not yet determined what they want/enjoy, and who are still sampling the buffet of life…

…but when you are working with a client who is recovering from major life challenges/trauma and/or you or they are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) who is desperately seeking comfort and peace, the last thing you/they need is to be told to “get out of your comfort zone!” or something similar. In this case, it is VERY okay to say, #NFW!

#NFW! CAREER

My “Yes”:

I want to show up from a place of love, deliver excellence, enjoy the journey of my work and life, value what I do, and create win-win experiences every time I prosper. So when offered opportunities that I would not enjoy, working a schedule that would throw me out of balance to the point of being a sleep-deprived or stressedbeyond-measure “Froot Loop”, or being asked to accept less than what I know I’m worth (unless there is some other aspect that feeds my soul and that I can include in my life with ease and flow), I say “yes” to respecting the value of my work, giving my clients the quality they deserve, and to honoring my precious life by saying “no” to all of the above.

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#NFW! RELATIONSHIPS

My “Yes”:

I want to be a light, spread joy, be a catalyst for fun and inspiration, and enjoy getting to be ME. I want to participate in relationships that feel warm and happy and that allow all parties to feel free to be their authentic selves and follow their natural rhythms. We connect when it works for everyone and, in essence, experience an all-around win-win-ease-and-flow vibe that benefits ALL.

So (barring real-life emergencies), when presented with a potential relationship that would ask me to be something I’m not, turn my life upside-down, or that feels all-stress/joyless, I say “yes” to authentic love and healthy relationships by saying—you guessed it—“no” to relationships that just don’t flow.

LAW OF ATTRACTION AND #NFW!

I shared some examples for the sake of illustration, but giving lots of airtime to what you don’t want, and ranting about the bazillion different reasons why it’s a “#NFW!” moment, is a sure-fire way to activate and feed negative vibes and a not-so-happy Point of Attraction (POA) = you’ve nixed the magic and have boarded the train to funky town (and I don’t mean the cool place referenced in the fab 70’s song by Chic)!

To use the magic of this powerful little word for GOOD and create/add momentum to a positive POA, once you’ve responded “no” (or even “#NFW!”) to something, channel your inner Mary Poppins and know that no further reasons need to be explained, given or explored. A decision has been made, and now it’s time to turn to your “yes.”

In essence, “no” only becomes negative if you get stuck in it, get in a mode of “pushing against”, or if you have yet to define your “yes”—so on that note:

What IS your “Yes” and WDYW (What Do You Want) when it comes to:

Health & Well-Being?

Career?

Relationships?

Sometimes knowing your “no” is THE best first step to discovering your “yes” and where you truly WANT to go!

THE BOTTOM LINE: #NFW! THE MAGIC WORD THAT TURNS “NEGATIVE” INTO POSITIVE!

How many times have you caught yourself or others speaking positive words that you didn’t really mean or feel, and—lo and behold—positive changes didn’t happen and you even experienced a not-so-pleasant manifestation?

Have you ever used a word or phrase that others may have seen as something “negative” or not quite the “ideal” word, yet it still felt good to YOU, raised your vibe, and brought about good results?

Just like any other word in the human vocabulary, when any version of “no” is used with the intention of saying “yes” to what you WANT to experience, it is simply just another tool to help you get to your “yes.”

Have you ever wondered why “no” is the mantra of toddlers? Perhaps there is something in our DNA that knows that who we are and what we want matters, that “no” really IS a valid answer, and that those who truly care about us can and will love and accept BOTH our “yeses” AND our “noes”.

It’s time to reclaim your right to say “no” and that is even okay to say, #NFW!

Let the magic begin!

ALLOWING YOUR SUCCESS

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

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How to Reach Your Audience

HOW TO REACH YOUR AUDIENCE HOW TO REACH YOUR AUDIENCE

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The top three steps for effective content marketing.

The most critical steps in content marketing can vary depending on the specific goals and context of your strategy. However, three fundamental steps often considered essential are:

1) Strategy Development: Before creating any content, it’s crucial to develop a clear and well-defined content marketing strategy. This involves understanding your target audience, defining your goals and objectives, conducting research on keywords and topics, analyzing competitors, and establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success. A solid strategy provides direction and ensures that your content efforts are aligned with your overall business objectives.

2) Content Creation: Once you have a strategy in place, the next critical step is creating high-quality, valuable content that resonates with your target audience. This content can take various forms, including blog posts, articles, videos, infographics, podcasts, whitepapers, case studies, and more.

Focus on producing content that addresses the needs, interests, and pain points of your audience—while also aligning with your brand voice and messaging. Consistency and relevance are key to building trust and credibility with your audience.

3) Distribution and Promotion: Creating great content is only half the battle; the other half is ensuring that it reaches your target audience. Distribution and promotion involve using various channels and tactics to amplify your content’s reach and visibility. This can include sharing content on social media platforms, leveraging email marketing, optimizing for search engines (SEO), collaborating with influencers or partners, guest blogging, participating in online communities, and more. By actively promoting your content through strategic channels, you can increase brand awareness, drive traffic to your website and, ultimately, generate leads and conversions.

These three steps lay the foundation for a successful content marketing strategy, helping you attract, engage, and convert your target audience effectively.

Christine Morse has over 20 years of experience in marketing, team leadership, client relations and sales with companies such as Herman Miller, Amway International, Spectrum Health, Avid Marketing, Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce, and several disability network nonprofits. She formed Avid Alliance in 2009, which is focused on helping people to understand how beneficial it is to use free and low-cost tools for excellent branding and business expansion. Christine excels at providing strategic counsel and is a business growth implementor with a focus on marketing and sales. She has helped thousands of people to learn about identifying their ideal client and competitors, realizing their strengths and weaknesses to determine which tactics will work best for quick business growth. She also donates her time and energy towards many nonprofit organizations which contribute to the sustainability of this community. Visit her website at https://www.avidmarketingalliance.com.

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Unlocking Potential

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

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The power of integrated job crafting workshops as coaching tool.

In today’s dynamic work environment, the concept of job crafting has emerged as a transformative practice, empowering individuals to proactively shape their roles and experiences within organizations. Job crafting was introduced as a model by Wrzesniewski and Dutton (2001) as a strategy for employees to create, shape and craft their jobs as they deem fit to their working demands based on three boundaries: task, cognitive and relational. However, for marginalized employees facing systemic barriers, accessing opportunities for career development and growth can be particularly challenging. In response to this pressing need, leaders and practitioners are increasingly turning to integrated job crafting workshops as a powerful tool for fostering inclusivity and empowerment. In my research (2024), I have found that practitioners and coaches should organize integrated job crafting workshops that encompass all three types of job crafting.

Research by Hu et al. (2020) also emphasizes the importance of organizing workshops that encompass all three types of job crafting—task-oriented, relational, and cognitive. These workshops provide a comprehensive framework for employees to explore and enhance various dimensions of their work experiences. By integrating diverse perspectives and approaches, participants gain a deeper understanding of how they can actively mold their roles to align with their strengths and aspirations.

According to Svicher and Di Fabio (2021), workshops and interventions play a crucial role in promoting job crafting among marginalized employees. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, these workshops serve as catalysts for personal and professional growth, enabling individuals to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential. Through interactive sessions and practical exercises, participants acquire valuable tools and strategies to navigate job demands, foster positive relationships, and cultivate adaptive cognitive approaches.

Integrated job crafting workshops go beyond mere skillbuilding exercises; they foster a culture of empowerment and autonomy within organizations. By equipping employees with

the knowledge and resources to actively shape their work experiences, organizations can create a more engaged and motivated workforce. Furthermore, by embracing diversity and inclusivity in workshop design and delivery, organizations send a powerful message of commitment to equity and fairness.

By offering a holistic approach to job crafting, integrated workshops empower employees to take ownership of their professional development journey. Participants emerge with a newfound sense of agency and confidence in their ability to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Ultimately, this leads to increased workplace autonomy, job satisfaction and overall organizational effectiveness.

Integrated job crafting workshops represent a pivotal step towards creating inclusive and empowering work environments. By investing in these initiatives, leaders and practitioners demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion within their organizations. As coaches, companies and employees continue to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, integrated workshops stand as beacons of hope, guiding marginalized employees towards brighter futures filled with opportunity and fulfillment.

References

Albertie, Marla J. (2024) Northcentral University ProQuest Dissertations Publishing, 2024. 30991625.

Hu, X., Zhang, Y., & Zhao, Y. (2020). The Influence of Leadership on Employee Job Crafting Behavior: The Mediating Role of Psychological Capital. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 1–10. https:// doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01937

Svicher, A., & Di Fabio, A. (2021). Promoting Job Crafting in Marginalized Employees: The Efficacy of a Brief Intervention. Journal of Career Development, 1–14. https://doi. org/10.1177/08948453211033389

Wrzesniewski, A., & Dutton, J. E. (2001). Crafting a Job: Revisioning Employees as Active Crafters of Their Work. Academy of Management Review, 26(2), 179–201. https://doi.org/10.5465/ amr.2001.4378011

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/

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How to harness the transformational power of 2024’s total eclipse.

We experienced a total eclipse of the Sun on April 8, 2024. Exciting! Where I live in eastern North Carolina, the light from the sun dimmed for a while. I might not have been aware if I had not been anticipating it. I might have missed the hush, that harmonizing, balancing stillness. I could feel different parts of my physical body gently attuning, separately, to the frequency: instruments in a symphony orchestra. All of nature revitalized as I looked on.

My cats, unusually still, experienced the phenomena from their favorite post at the window. We were all in this together, one with the cosmos. They understood that something magical was present. One of the cats, in particular, has never understood why I do not follow his instructions to turn the sun back on every evening when darkness shadows his view of the backyard birds and other wildlife! Even he did not question this energetic phenomenon. Rather, he accepted and attuned. Bossy cats aside, I experienced a calm in the air, one not usually present at that time of day. I took a few minutes to breathe gently and absorb the energy while reflecting upon the significance of this rare event.

Solar eclipses remind us that as the Sun, Moon and Earth align completely, an energetic balance is created that we can sense if we allow

our minds and bodies to relax and accept. In this stillness, we can feel our bodies recalibrating, especially where there are weaknesses or disruptions in the physical. Our attention goes to these places: the sore muscle, the tight jaw, the uncomfortable fullness in the stomach, and the heaviness in the legs. We take a moment to focus on each area, vibrating that focus with love and healing. Some places relax as we direct healing, harmonizing energy to them. Some need further attention to adjust. We use the energy of perfect balance for additional reflection, introspection and healing vibrations.

It is an opportunity to recalibrate and connect more deeply with our inner selves while connecting to the divine. We can slow down now and savor who we are, where we intend to go, and the next best steps to move us down our chosen paths. How wonderful if we could continuously maintain this quiet balance. However, eclipse energy is transformational. Any physical, mental or emotional aspect of ourselves that is not in balance will be challenged. And, in the near future, there will be additional eclipse energies that will help maintain the transformational flow.

Another total eclipse of the Sun will not be seen in the contiguous United States until 2044. Still, the good news is that we will experience partial eclipses in 2026, 2028, and 2029 to supplement this transformation energy. And, because of the perfect balance of the heavenly

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bodies involved during the total eclipse in April, we have powerful, energetic assistance to release what needs to be released within us, opening new doors and starting a new chapter in our lives. As we shift upwards within ourselves, we are doing our part to amp up the vibrational level of the world. We are here to “be the change.” We combine our light with the light of others responding to the Universe’s call.

So, how do we do this? There are different ways. You most likely experienced a surge of energy following the eclipse. You may have felt a desire to simplify or start fresh. Use that heightened energy to set intentions and act this year. However, step boldly, but not impulsively. Consider your options wisely. You are developing a solid foundation for progress.

Prepare for possible power struggles as you change your dynamic. Others may not understand the changes in you immediately. There probably will be some emotional reactions within yourself as you shift. Confront your underlying issues. Examine them. Allow them to dissolve. Focus on healthy boundaries and emotional honesty. Uncover any emotional triggers and meditate to understand and clear them. Meditate as often as needed to understand anything disrupting your inner balance. Keep at it. Some things have been stuck inside for years. This process may be difficult. Be patient with yourself and send light to any blame, shame or guilt the moment it wants to surface. These feelings are useless and stop your progress. Avoid overthinking and being overly critical of

yourself or others. Make it a habit to listen first to understand. Develop patience. Seek balance within at all times.

The unexpected is a large part of this transformational energy. We may encounter disruptions and challenges, and our resilience may be tested.

The more flexible we can be under stress, the more challenges we can handle—and the greater our progress.

We have chosen to be on Earth at this time in history. We are here to help our planet transition to a higher level of consciousness through personal transformation, healing and love. As we transform, we feel connected to the Divine, our inner selves, and others. The work will not be easy at times. Stay with it. More assistance is coming in than ever before. As we rebalance, piece by piece, we will feel the benefits more strongly than ever before. We have a mission. Together, we are birthing a new spiritual era on Earth.

Let your light shine!

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

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Find out more at: TRUTHSPEAKSCOACHING.COM

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Photo by Marco Meyer on Unsplash
The backbone of any fulfilling life is the ability to acknowledge and harness the internal transformations— those hidden dimensions—of our

personal development.

In personal growth, the most significant developments often occur out of sight, beneath the external milestones and visible achievements. These silent strides in self-improvement and resilience contribute immeasurably to our individual journeys, yet they frequently remain unrecognized by both ourselves and others. Acknowledging the intrinsic value of these unseen aspects of growth is crucial in cultivating a deeper sense of self-awareness and fulfillment.

RECOGNIZING THE VALUE OF THE UNSEEN

Echoing Albert Einstein’s insight, “Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts”, we are reminded of the profound truth that the essence of our progress cannot always be quantified. In personal development, this means valuing the quiet moments of realization, the internal battles won, and the subtle shifts in perspective that may not be immediately noticeable but are indeed transformative.

Our individual growth is a mosaic of these unseen efforts—overcoming fears in solitude, changing old habits, or silently supporting others. While these achievements may not manifest as

tangible rewards, they are the very foundation of our character and capabilities.

LIVING BY THE A.C.T. PRINCIPLE

To fully embrace and illuminate the unseen aspects of our growth, adopting the A.C.T. principle—Authenticity, Connection, Taste—can serve as a guiding framework. Being authentic involves honoring our true selves, including our vulnerabilities and strengths, allowing us to grow in genuineness and integrity. Making connections, both with ourselves and others, helps in recognizing the depth and significance of our unseen progress. Sharing a taste of who we are through our stories and experiences invites reflection and appreciation for the nuances of our journey.

This framework encourages us to view personal growth not just as a series of external achievements but as a rich, internal process that shapes our identity and perceptions.

THE IMPACT OF UNSEEN GROWTH ON OUR LIVES

The backbone of any fulfilling life is the ability to acknowledge and harness the unseen

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aspects of our personal development. Recognizing these invisible contributions to our growth enriches our understanding of ourselves and our potential, driving us toward a more authentic and meaningful existence.

The unseen efforts—the moments of self-discipline, the emotional resilience developed in times of hardship, the quiet acts of kindness—form the essence of our character. While these may not always be visible or celebrated, their influence is profound, guiding us towards becoming more empathetic, resilient and self-aware individuals.

EMBRACING THE JOURNEY OF INVISIBLE

GROWTH

As we navigate our personal development, let’s commit to valuing the unseen aspects of our growth. By incorporating the principles of Authenticity, Connection and Taste into our lives, we can ensure that the hidden dimensions of our progress are recognized and cherished.

This shift in perspective allows us to appreciate the full spectrum of our journey, recognizing that success is not solely defined by external milestones but also by the internal transformations we undergo. Let’s celebrate the unseen progress we make each day, for it is these quiet moments of growth that truly shape our character and destiny. Embracing the unseen is not just about acknowledging our personal development—it’s about recognizing the profound impact these hidden strides have on our lives, shaping us into more rounded, grounded, and authentic individuals.

GELENA P is an author whose life story seamlessly intertwines financial expertise, cultural richness, and a fervent passion for empowerment. Hailing from Romania, GELENA’s remarkable journey is a testament to the transformative fusion of financial acumen with a global outlook. With a background in accounting and a distinguished career as a C-suite finance executive, GELENA holds an MBA from the University of Connecticut (UCONN) and a MS in Human Relations with a specialization in Diversity Awareness from Amberton University in Texas. She is a certified professional life coach (Integrated Grit and Strengths Success Mentor Coach) dedicated to helping individuals unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Her empathetic approach and keen understanding of diverse perspectives make her a sought-after guide on the journey to self-discovery. For more information, visit https://www.allseasonsconsulting.com/.

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Photo by Dewang Gupta on Unsplash.
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Your soul is the recorder and cataloger of all of your experiences as you add your contribution to the vast array of human experiences on Earth.

Your soul is your immortal inner being. It existed before time began and it will always exist, even when you merge back in your ultimate spiritual home as a conscious aspect of Infinite Being—the Divine Source of all life.

Out of the 12 levels or “density layers” of existence, we, in this physical realm, are located in 3rd density. The soul is in 5th density, and Infinite Being is

beyond the 12th. Your soul is your individualized spiritual presence, operating in 5th density, and it maintains communication with the souls of everyone with whom you interact in daily life.

The soul world of 5th density is non-physical, our dense physical world of matter is in 3rd density, while 4th density—the afterlife or spirit world—is quasi-physical. The term quasi-physical means that the spirit world is solid to its residents, even though they are etheric or ghost-like when compared to our dense

physical structures. Spirits can, and do, bump into each other in the spirit realms because they are solid relative to each other.

Life in the spirit world is much like life in our dense physical world, except that there are certain freedoms that come with having a less dense body. The ability to levitate is one such freedom and, better still, spirits can project themselves almost instantly to another location and suddenly appear there. It just takes mental focus and—whoosh—they appear at the target location.

You don’t see people wearing spectacles in the spirit world because their sense of sight works as a direct perception rather than through their eyes, in the way that we use our physical eyes as one of our five senses. They can focus telescopically on distant objects to make them appear near, and they can focus microscopically on a nearby object, right down to its atomic structure. Their sense of hearing, too, can be focused to pick up sounds at great distances.

When we in the physical world are able to replicate the principles behind “astral projection,” we too will have instant transportation to other locations. Then, it’ll be bye-bye to cars, trucks, trains, planes and rocket ships.

Fifth density is the start of non-physical existence, so your soul is a non-physical sphere of consciousness. It has the freedom to relocate both in time and space, but it spends most of its time catering to the needs of its physical, incarnate self in a human body. In 5th density, when one soul meets another, they recognize each other, not from any physical appearance but from their unique signature vibration. Each soul emits a unique signature tone, which is a form of mental energy that is perceived as a subtle sound.

Your soul is the recorder and cataloger of all of your experiences as you add your contribution to the vast array of human experiences on earth. A major portion of your soul consciousness lives right here in 3rd density with you, tending to your every spiritual need. As your inner self, your soul knows you better than anyone else in the world does, and it’s available for consultation 24/7. The limiting factor is how much your physical mind will allow and accept intuitive, souloriginated thoughts.

In order to live a life inspired by intuitive, inner wisdom you need only make a decision to do just that. Open up your awareness to the whisperings of your intuitive nature.

Practice following your innermost hunches. Make a note of them so that you can look back later and see how accurate they have become. Most of all, don’t be deterred if your hunches seem inaccurate during your early attempts. It happens that way to most people. Just keep practicing and very soon your intuitive hunches will start turning into a resource so valuable that you’ll wonder what you did without it.

iNFINITE BEING

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.

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Keeping our hearts open when we don’t agree with others can be difficult.

How do we tap in to what is true for us when things seem upside down? How do we find our center and stay open when someone we love is hurting, especially when their pain has turned toward us? Do we defend ourselves, try to fix it, or ignore it and hope it goes away?

Over the last few weeks, these questions have come to the forefront for me. I’ve had a challenging time with someone I care about, and it’s been unsettling.

You see, most of my life has been spent trying to solve problems and fix things. In conflicts, I’d rather deal with whatever is going on than let it simmer. And, although I’ve gotten better at listening and seeing another’s point of view, it’s not always easy for me. I’m Italian, for one, and can get rather defensive when I’m feeling attacked.

Recently, a friend suggested that I might not be comfortable “holding the tension.” I didn’t know what that meant, so I did some reading, and I learned that she was on to something. Being in an uncomfortable place without trying to fix it is just no fun. Waiting for resolution—giving things space, is not what I do well.

The truth is, no matter how “zen” we feel in our lives or how aware we are of our triggers, challenges come up. Yet,

it is exactly those challenges and how we handle them that can foster our growth, if we are willing.

Instead of trying to fix the unfixable, I realized that I just had to breathe and feel the tumult inside. I had to wait for the smoke to clear so I could see another way.

Carl Jung said, “…all the greatest and most important problems in life are fundamentally insoluble…They can never be solved, but only outgrown.”

One way I find my center is to purposefully breathe in and out. It’s like opening a door to an inside passage where my defenses soften and awareness comes into view. As I breathe in, I become curious about the stories being told, both theirs and mine.

As I breathe out, some of the anger and uncertainty dissipates. As the light comes in, I contemplate what I might lose if I dig in my heels. It’s powerful and uncomfortable. I ask myself, “What is more important?”

Keeping our hearts open when we don’t agree with others can be difficult. We may feel justified in our beliefs and “know” we are right. Yet, when we take the hard line without trying to listen or understand, we leave no room for growth. Even in the most challenging circumstances, something can be learned about ourselves and about others. If all we see is darkness, darkness is all we will ever see. We have to let in some light.

Gabriel Ancheas of StoryPeople, wrote: “I wake, wrapped in thoughts of my own struggle, but how bad can it be when outside my door there is an ocean of light?”

What I’ve learned over these last few weeks is that ignoring things does not make them go away, it just drives them inward. Defending oneself against another’s pain just causes more pain. If we meet adversity with hardness, we will get nowhere. We have to be willing to soften. If we can hold the tension with gentleness, perhaps we can find another way.

We forget, sometimes, that our lives are nothing short of a miracle. The fact that I am here and you are here is phenomenal. That I can feel pain, love and all the other emotions in between is what life is all about, and I don’t want to shut down any of that for comfort in the short term.

Terry Tempest Williams wrote, “Love is to life what life is to death. And so we risk everything trying to touch the ineffable by touching each other. Over and over. Again and again…Patterned behavior alternates like shadow and light…We can change, evolve, and transform our own conditioning. We can choose to move like water rather than be molded like clay. Life spirals in and then spirals out on any given day. It does not have to be one way, one truth, one voice. Nor does love have to be all or nothing.”

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.

When we use our imagination and dream big, we make a difference.

On the night before my birthday, a friend came over to drop off a gift. It was a pint of Talenti Caramel Salt Gelato (my favorite) and a Powerball lottery ticket. I don’t play the lottery so I had no idea what to do. She explained the drawing was the following week, and I could look up who won online or take it to any lottery place and the clerk would run it through the machine to determine if my ticket was a winner. Apparently, I had several ways to win including a box called “the Powerball” because she paid an extra $1 for it. The jackpot was $1.2 Billion.

In the week before the drawing, I thought about all the things I could do with that prize money. It was thrilling to speculate. I immediately spent $10 million paying off the mortgages of family members or remodeling their existing homes. My two grandsons had already graduated from college, so I set up an educational trust fund for their unborn children. I then widened the net to help other family members. Soon I was down to a still sizeable $800 Million.

$800 Million is way short of Elon Musk’s or Jeff Bezos’ billions. But I knew how to spend it without designing rocket ships or dismantling a historical bridge in Amsterdam so my

new yacht could float down the canal to the sea. (A yacht wasn’t on my shopping list.) Before it was sold to developers for $37 million, I once had a vision to turn the old Spanish property on Sarasota, Florida’s bayfront known as The Quay into a spiritual destination location. With the help of a few friends, we designed a huge crystal pyramid on the grounds suitable for meditations, ceremonies and spiritual events. The beautiful spaciousness of the crystal pyramid was offset with crystal columns along meandering walkways that were covered in gemstones. The porticoes around the pyramid were open to the heavens so visitors could sit in meditation contemplating the cosmos.

Alas, my measly $800 million was never going to buy out the developers whose investment had already returned them billions when they sold out all the $1 million to $5 million condos in several towers. Still, winning the Powerball lottery gives you more options to dream big. I wanted to spend it on behalf of others! So, upon investigation, I learned the biggest worries for humans worldwide are: clean water—climate change—pollution—human health—hunger—and the everwidening economic gap. This list was daunting! $800 million was a drop in the bucket and would never make a dent in any of those conditions. But

an old teacher once told me to “Think Globally but Act Locally.”

The $800 million was ready to spend locally to make a difference in small ways. I called the Crystal Pyramid designers for advice. Recalling our vision for The Quay, the -friends shared a new vision of sustainable living in an easy-to-navigate community. They suggested we go inland where prices were cheaper and buy 300 acres of unused pastureland to build affordable wind- and solar-powered homes. Some of the land was set aside for garden plots so the residents could plant vegetables and not only have enough to eat but sell their produce at local farmer’s markets. Lest we forget the original Quay intention, the homes were built around a central square which had a smaller version of the Crystal Pyramid of Light. The ideas were exciting to imagine, and spending all the money on this venture felt fabulous.

The next morning the Powerball was announced. When I screened up the winning numbers there was no doubt that I’d won. But I was one-off on every number on the ticket. Instead of 02, I had 01. Instead of 12, I had 11. Instead of 16 I had 15. (Was that normal?) And yet, I’d spent 24 hours of undisturbed dreaming about what I’d do, and how I could make a difference when I won $1.2 Billion.

All was not lost though. Yes, I dreamed big and because of that, in another timeline, and in another dimension, I did win the Powerball lottery. In that place, a sustainable community exists! It’s filled with carefree

residents who have homes built from renewable energy, who harvest and live off the land and who spend time in their spiritual practices inside a Crystal Pyramid of Light that was built for them with lottery winnings.

Even though my ticket was stamped “Not a Winner” I still am! I won the lottery, and I built a fabulous community that will someday come into being. That’s the power of imagination and unlimited resources!

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

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