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You know how you can have the radio playing in the background and never “tune in” to all the chatter. Suddenly, your ears hone in on a phrase, and you can’t get it out of your head. Well, that’s exactly what has happened to me with a song by an Australian artist. The simplicity of the intro notes invite you in, and the lyrics keep you engaged. The Belgian-Australian musician, Gotye, sings about a past lover, and the nature of love, but I find myself envisioning looking in the mirror and singing to my reflection. The image I see resembles somebody that I used to know with glimpses of a brand new me emerging. Do you ever feel like that? Who do you see when you look in the mirror? I look at my reflection, and I ask: Where did the little girl go with her Toni perm curls framing her shy little smile?
Where did the PTA mom go who volunteered for everything from baking cupcakes to writing the booklet for the fundraising auction and racked up more miles than a Daytona 500 driver as a stay-at-home mom? Oh, she’s still here. She’s just somebody I used to know who is reinventing herself. Yes, strange as it may sound from someone who is receiving AARP solicitations, I am reinventing myself. I’m reinventing on a daily basis. It’s downright exhausting at times! And it is so exhilarating! After two breast cancer episodes, two unsuccessful start-up companies, and moving halfway across this continent for gainful employment, I’ve acquired some coping skills to help me in my healing process as well as diffusing my stress level. Whether we are aware of the slow erosion or not, stress takes its toll on us on a daily basis. Tapping into my creativity is the way I keep my stress level down. Writing in my journal, playing with beads or paper crafts, and giving myself permission to explore new ways to create…create my own happily ever after. When I look in the mirror, I see somebody I used to know…and so much more. I see that same twinkle in my eye of the mischievous child. I see the same grin of the perky young woman embarking on her career as a secretary. I see fingers grasping a pen or flying over a keyboard with words tumbling over each other everywhere, and hear an inquisitive voice asking insightful questions culminating in an amazing body of work.
When I look in the mirror, I see somebody I want to know. Who do you see when you look in the mirror?
I understand what it’s like not to recognize yourself in the mirror because everyone else in your life crowds out your own reflection. That is the reason I encourage you to pick up a journal and create a sanctuary for yourself within the pages. Writing offers you ways to reconnect with the person you want to see in the mirror. Hop over to my Facebook Page and comment on what this blog has stirred up in you.
photo credit: EAOverland, http://shariecohenphotography.com
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[Friday Five-Minute Writing Prompt] A personal audit…
A personal audit…
Friday five-minute writing prompt
Take out a fresh sheet of paper. Natalie Goldberg uses a “fast-writing” pen. I suggest using your favorite writing instrument and an unlined piece of colored paper for fun. I use a fountain pen with purple ink. Some folks opt to use their computer. If that is your preferred method to write, then just open a new word document on your computer and go for it. The point is to keep your fingers moving for five minutes and not stop. I want you to experience how much writing can be accomplished in a short period.
If you get stuck, just repeat the writing prompt – A personal audit... or any other phrase that is comfortable for you. Do not stop to edit, correct spelling, look up a better word, or rearrange a sentence. Do not question what comes up in the five minutes: this doesn’t make sense, where did that come from, or what a crazy notion. This is a timed writing exercise so be sure to set the timer on your watch, phone, microwave, computer, or kitchen stove. Whether you use an egg timer, a No. 2 pencil and a spiral notebook, your iPad, or even your iPhone, the theory is the same. Keep your hand and fingers moving and have fun taking dictation from your unconscious self. Make a list, hum a tune, write a poem, or create a short, short story. This is your time to explore and experiment.
Photo credit: SherieCohenPhotography
Connection and inspiration…
Have you ever felt as if you were working on an assembly line doing the same task over-and-over with no variation or option to alter the routine?
Do you find yourself sighing deeply for no apparent reason?
Are you longing to reinvent yourself to become the amazing, articulate, and astute woman you know yourself to be?
Are you a stay-at-home mom wondering if there’s a life beyond carpools, ballet, soccer practice and PTA meetings?
With your nest empty, do you now want to spread your own wings?
I understand the feelings of overwhelm and hesitation of not knowing what to do next, first, or wonder about doing anything at all! As a former stay-at-home mom and an empty nester, I empathize with anyone who is contemplating that next transition.
My job description changed after my daughter left home for college and I was able to devote more time to my love of writing.
It took some time to redesign my life. Writing is my foundational tool and it can be yours as well. You are the author of your life! Grab a journal and start writing about what you want your next steps to be. Get inspired by your own wisdom from your life experiences. Go back to what you wanted to be as a child. Are those dreams still whispering to you? What about dusting off those dreams and exploring what they mean to you now? Or dream a new dream. Your journal is a safe place to begin the next chapter of your life. I promise you that you will be amazed at your thoughts and ideas when you see them written down.
photo credit: Dreamstime.com
You are the light…
Are you wandering in the shadows? Do you burn with passion to make a difference with your one precious life? Yet, stand rooted in fear not knowing how to step into the light? What if I told you that you could not only find the light, you are the light? Are you ready to live life to the fullest and share your gifts?
You may think your light is small, but it can make a huge difference in other people’s lives.
Anonymous
As a woman deeply involved and connected to the world in the midst of family, friends, and your community, you are the light of your own journey…and the light of the journey of others.
As a business owner, or entrepreneur who is passionate about their business and industry, you are the light for your business…for those you serve…for those you labor with.
Writing is an amazing tool to share your light.
Do you hesitate to write because you have no idea what to say or who would listen?
I believe you have an incredible story to tell. Your story and the wisdom of who you are is the light you bring to the world. You are the only one who can create the whole story from all the bits and pieces to tell it. The story of who you are, why you are doing what you do, how you are the solution for your clients, and what gifts you bring to the world. Your audience waiting to hear it. They are longing to hear it!
Not convinced? Please reread the quote above. You have knowledge others are looking for…share it with them. When you share your expertise with your clients and customers, you offer more than information. It is a spark igniting their imagination. They learn not only about your products and services, they learn about you. You establish trust and credibility and invite them to follow you. Sharing what you have to offer to your readers in stories, quotes and commentary on what’s happening in the world, as well as your industry, helps them understand you and validates your position. It helps those you are meant to serve to find you.
I help reluctant writers find the words to connect with their readers…ideally to transform readers into clients and customers. I am confident you have the light within you to create a clear message so they may find you.
Ready to truly allow the light in you to shine brightly? Let’s talk about your story and your light. Sign up for a complimentary call today.
photo credit: Canva.com
[Friday Five-Minute Writing Prompt] I hope…
I hope…
Friday five-minute writing prompt
Take out a fresh sheet of paper. Natalie Goldberg uses a “fast-writing” pen. I suggest using your favorite writing instrument and an unlined piece of colored paper for fun. I use a fountain pen with purple ink. Some folks opt to use their computer. If that is your preferred method to write, then just open a new word document on your computer and go for it. The point is to keep your fingers moving for five minutes and not stop. I want you to experience how much writing can be accomplished in a short period.
If you get stuck, just repeat the writing prompt – I hope... or any other phrase that is comfortable for you. Do not stop to edit, correct spelling, look up a better word, or rearrange a sentence. Do not question what comes up in the five minutes: this doesn’t make sense, where did that come from, or what a crazy notion. This is a timed writing exercise so be sure to set the timer on your watch, phone, microwave, computer, or kitchen stove. Whether you use an egg timer, a No. 2 pencil and a spiral notebook, your iPad, or even your iPhone, the theory is the same. Keep your hand and fingers moving and have fun taking dictation from your unconscious self. Make a list, hum a tune, write a poem, or create a short, short story. This is your time to explore and experiment.
Photo credit: SherieCohenPhotography
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