dreams

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Wait a minute, you mean I can make a living doing….

July 6, 2010 in Bring it on!, Career, Change, Goal Setting, Life Purpose, Shifting Consciousness, Spirit, fear | No comments

People make cartoons for a living.  They ACTUALLY get paid to make cartoons! And I knew, right then and there, that’s what I wanted to do. ~ John Lasseter, Pixar

John Lasseter is one of the creative minds behind Pixar and over the weekend, while channel surfing, I came across the documentary, The Pixar Story.  As a fan of animated films, and all of the movies that have come out of Pixar to date, I was glued to the TV.  I tried to imagine what John’s parents, family and friends must have thought when he announced in high school that he planned on making a living creating cartoons.  The myths of creativity and what you can do to make a successful living were still very much anchored to words like “starving artist” and “suffering for their art”.  Yet what I loved about John’s story was once the realization went from his heart to his head, there was no stopping him.  He knew that he was supposed to make cartoons, knew there were ways to push the envelope past the traditional 2-D movies, and knew he needed to be a part of an industry that brought joy to the hearts of many.  Right at the start, John immersed himself in everything Disney.  He even went so far as to get a summer job at Disneyland where he started as a sweeper but was quickly promoted to a ride operator for their Jungle Cruise.  John’s faith in the unknown path that lay ahead brought him to Cal Tech where he won back to back awards for animation and upon graduation his dream job at Disney.

All of this might sound like a piece of cake career evolution for John.  Yet what many people don’t know is that the very place he held on a pedestal for so many years growing up, Disney, fired him.  They didn’t feel comfortable in the direction he wanted to take the industry.  He was talking about new technologies, 3-D animation, and the important use of computers.  After the executives at Disney gave him the green light to work on a project that would showcase what could be achieved, he created The Brave Little Toaster.  For eight plus months he worked on this movie and after he presented it, he was shut down.  He was told how this idea of computer generated films and a new look and feel to animated films would go nowhere.  They believed what John was showing them would remove the need for animators.  Throughout Disney there was a lot of fear.  Lack and limiting thoughts over losing jobs to technology and there not being enough interest to make money enveloped the company.  They weren’t able to embrace an idea that didn’t have proof, tangible evidence, of success.

We’ve all been in similar situations.  We know from the core of our being that we are meant to do something extraordinary with our lives.  A unique gift we were born with surfaces and we are willing to move mountains to achieve our divine dreams.   However, when the path of achievement doesn’t happen quickly and we aren’t able to see, feel, taste or touch confirmation of what we believed would bring us success, we many times walk away.  We get wrapped up in feelings of failure and rejection.  All of a sudden every naysayer we know, and even several we don’t, show up to validate just how ridiculous our dream was to begin with and at least now we know.  We don’t take into consideration Divine Timing and Order.  The Universe isn’t on our time schedule, as much as we love to think otherwise.  There are directions we need to take, people we need to meet, and situations we need to experience all which guide us on the path to our life purpose.

John’s dream of making a full-length, animated feature film didn’t happen overnight.  After Disney fired him, he was led to a job at Lucas Films where he continued to hone his craft and work with scientists and artists on perfecting technology.  With the support of George Lucas, a small group took Pixar and began to look for an investor for their studio and found Steve Jobs.  (Least we forget that Steve Jobs had been fired from the very company he founded, Apple.)  And while many might believe anything Steve Jobs touches is an instant success, he lost $5 million dollars during the first five years of Pixar.  But no one would stop trying and believing.  John and Steve, along with a group of people with like-minded passion and values came together to create this success story.  Toy Story, Bugs Life, Toy Story 2, Monster’s Inc, Finding Nemo, Cars, etc.. became possible because they held onto faith, trusted the unknown, and aligned their thoughts, words, actions and emotions.

Through the chaos, life brought surprises filled with joy and love.  If you’re asking why them and not you, right there is the first challenge.  Where are your thoughts regarding what you want to create?  What are you doing to contribute to the evolution of your dream?  Are you so wrapped up in there not being enough time that you don’t even begin to try?  What other limiting thoughts are you holding onto?  If your dream enlivens you, and you’ll know it because you won’t be able to think about anything but this divine idea, then you must keep on keeping on.  If your dream is aligned with your core values and creates good in this world, then you must keep stepping out on faith.  If you need help to make this dream a reality, then you are dreaming huge, kid kind of huge, and you will find that the right and perfect people do show up to help make it happen.  If your dream requires you to grow into your true self, then you must stay on your path.

We all deserve to wake up in the mornings and say, “What a minute… I’m actually getting paid to do this for a living!”  Let the delicious and dynamic lives begin!

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When I grow up I want to be…

June 28, 2010 in Change, Life, Life Purpose, Spirit, Starting Over, fear | No comments

How big are you dreaming?  If your divine dreams and goals don’t require the help from others, you’ve not dreamed big enough.  If what you want to manifest doesn’t push you outside of your comfort zone because you know you don’t have all of the answers on how it will unfold, you’re power of imagination and visualization hasn’t been tapped.  If your life purpose doesn’t necessitate growth and learning, it’s time to ask why.  When you ask a child what they want to be when they grow up, he or she doesn’t list just one idea.  They will blurt out with energy and joy a list of dreams so large in scope you have to tether them to the nearest tree or they will float away on a cloud of limitless possibilities.  My favorite list came from a little boy, age 7, whom I met on the subway.  He was going to be a fireman and a policeman because they both get to help people and have really cool sirens, shortstop, like Derek Jeter, for the New York Yankees, an astronaut and a super hero.  He completed his list with a pose similar to Spider Man.  What do you think happens when I ask adults what they want to be when they grow up?  After laughter and a raised eyebrow, the common retort is it’s too late for me. Is it really?

Our inner child never leaves us.  There are some who have never been separated from its influence; while others have long since forgotten the larger than life experiences they planned while sailing in a tire swing or laying on the grass staring up at the stars.  What would you do today if money and time weren’t a concern?  Don’t over think the question and do you best to shut out your ego while it attempts to throw out all of the reasons why this exercise is silly.  And if the answer feels like an impossibility to you, like President of the United States, take the time to dig deeper into what it is about the dream or goal that you connect with most.  More than likely, it’s because of the unique gifts, skills and talents you innately possess.  As you continue to explore and discover you might find another career, project, goal or hobby that is aligned perfectly with the original one you came up with and you know is attainable.  Someone who always wanted to act on Broadway, and has never taken a class or performed in his or her life, might find that working for a theater company or a foundation that supports the arts a way to connect with this dream or they could decide to take an acting class or audition for community theater.

No one or no thing can keep us from our dreams.  We are the only ones with that kind of power, and we’ve become experts at getting in our own way.  We focus on the “how” of things, the “perfection” of an idea, or fear based notions like failure and rejection.  Instead of the how, center on the affirmation “why not me.”  Why not you to take dance, writing, acting, photography, or art lessons?  Why not you to switch careers, move to New York City, or own a home?  Dreaming big does come with its challenges like wanting what you want and wanting it now.  It’s frustration when it’s not happening fast enough that often blocks our path and we walk away before we’ve begun the journey.  Instead of zeroing in on step 10, take a look at step 1.  And just like the outlines we created in high school and college, the line from step 1 to step 2 can be incorporated with even smaller tasks like 1.a, 1.b. 1.c.  With each accomplishment and win, you are empowered to move forward.

What’s the one thing you can do today to get started?  Where can you go to find and connect with others who have similar interests and passions?  These very people could direct and guide you toward tremendous opportunities.  Utilize your social networks, check out continuing education guides at local colleges and universities, look at programs offered by community centers and read the local papers for events.  Summer is an excellent time to embrace your inner child and say yes to opportunities.

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Embracing Your Light

June 21, 2010 in Life, Life Purpose, Love, Shifting Consciousness, Spirit | No comments

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

I woke up this morning with the above quote in my heart.  It’s one of my favorites ~ along with the woman who spoke the words with such knowing and authority.  Think about how many conversations and/or arguments you’ve had with others where you’ve started the sentence with “You made me …”, “You forced me to …”, or “It’s your fault I feel…” and the remainder of the words directed toward a negative thought or action.  We’ve all received PhD’s in taking things personally and more than likely very early on in our lives.  We shoulder the responsibility for the happiness of our friends and loved ones, as well as the occasional stranger who happens to scowl at you on the subway.  Based on my own experiences, I know when I embrace the unhelpful and pessimistic opinions of others (whether these thoughts and ideas are directed toward me or not), it’s because I’ve become disconnected from my spirit.  I have forgotten my light and how powerfully it runs through me and radiates outward touching many people and situations.’

A week ago today, I came back from a two-week trip to Florida where I visited my family and threw a surprise retirement party for my parents.  This was not even close to a vacation because prior to the wheels touching the runway at Tampa International Airport our itinerary was set with very little wiggle room.  To make things a touch more interesting, I was sick for the first two days.  Everything hurt and all I wanted to do was to sleep.  I had planned an actual break from work for myself where I wouldn’t blog, publish Michele’s Daily Dash, or connect to my various social networks.  I rationalized that although this trip was not a traditional vacation, I could at least give myself a reprieve from part of my daily work life.  For the most part, I stuck to my decision.  I didn’t read emails, personal or professional, and I didn’t share any affirmations, daily challenges or questions of the day.  Most people might have enjoyed this break, but I didn’t feel like my mind, body or spirit was being refreshed and rejuvenated.  In fact, it was just the opposite.  With each day, I felt more and more disconnected.

I was thrilled to have my nephew with me and loved seeing everyone, yet I felt my ego challenging me each and every day.  Old tapes were replayed spouting false truths and realities that I had grown up with and owned for many years.  I found my former role in the family dynamic tapping me on the shoulder and whispering in my ear, “Come on.  Just get involved in this one issue because you know you can fix it. You know you want to say something.  Go!”  Ugh!  And by the way, no one forced me to feel like this or to doubt and question the dynamic and delicious life I am so grateful to have created for myself.  No one or no thing has the power to take away my good and they most certainly don’t have the power to dim my light.  And while I know this to be true, why did it appear that these ego-based thoughts were gaining so much control?

When we landed back in NYC last Monday, I had a busy week ahead of me.  I was looking forward to getting back to writing and working with my clients.  I had missed Michele’s Daily Dash and the interaction with my social networks.  When I woke up Tuesday morning I couldn’t get out of bed and for the next two days pretty much did not.  The most accurate visual I can give is that of John Coffey’s character in the movie The Green Mile.  I kept calling it the flu, but it wasn’t.  For two weeks my ego had battled against my spirit.  Part of who I am is what I do.  My light is very much about reaching out to as many people as I can to inspire, support and co-create with them ridiculous lives filled with positivity and living the beauty of their dreams.  To cut that off is to cut off an arm.  To stop connecting with others drains my energy. Let’s just say that Tuesday and Wednesday were spent releasing a whole lot of toxins!

When we keep ourselves away from what brings us joy, stay anchored in thoughts that prevent us from stepping out on faith, and embrace the ideas and opinions from outside influences instead of trusting our heart and shining our light, no one wins.  We were blessed with unique gifts so they would be shared ~ not hidden. Trust me, you do know when you are not living your absolute truth.  Everything feels hard.  It’s an effort to get up in the morning.  You constantly feel like you’re going against the grain.  Walking your talk and living YOUR life’s purpose isn’t easy either.  There’s no magic pill that if taken once a day keeps you on your divine path.  Just as no one can make you feel inferior about yourself, no one can make you live what you love.  You have to want it.  You have to stand up, shout and know, “Yes, my time is now!  Yes, I deserve this!  Yes, I chose me!”

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How do you know your dream is the right one?

May 28, 2010 in Goal Setting, Life, Life Purpose | No comments

Shortly before I turned 30, I decided to leave the technology-consulting firm I was working for and start my own company with two business partners.  Our idea was to create a better company with stronger values that served our clients best interests.  This was my first entrepreneurial experience and I didn’t know what to expect.  I had no idea if we would be successful, and I didn’t focus on the possibility of what could go wrong or how many new businesses fail.  I thought if this didn’t work out in a year, I would just go out and find another job.  Twelve years ago, I wasn’t conscious of the fact that I was stepping out on faith and trusting the unknown.  I didn’t appreciate the risk I was taking because back then I was single, no children or mortgage.  All I knew was that I was willing to eat cereal for breakfast, lunch and dinner, not take taxi’s, and curb my shoe and handbag shopping in order to reduce my spending and stretch out the small dispersements we would be taking for ourselves.  I knew the idea of this business and the environment I hoped to create sparked my spirit and that I could trust.

After owning the business for a little more than a decade, I decided it was time for me to leave.  Now this time, I’m almost 40 years old and the rules have changed.  I have a mortgage and a standard of living I had come to enjoy.  I was in love with an amazing man, and we were making plans to move in together and purchase our first home together.  A second mortgage would be added to my list of responsibilities.  Yet I couldn’t escape from the knowing that during my time on this planet I was meant to do something greater and live “on purpose”.  My thought process as I developed a business plan and marketing strategy for a new company where I would be the sole owner felt more focused and I was conscious of the risk.  I was leaving a very successful business in an industry that continually thrives and evolves, plus we had captured a niche market within it.  My new plan involved researching small business loans, structure of multiple, revenue streams, and asking myself while shoe and handbag shopping “While you might want this right now, do you need it?”.  Many people told me I was crazy to start Life Design because of the economy, but I couldn’t ignore the energy I felt when I worked on developing my coaching and creative strategy.  I always felt like a kid on Christmas Eve.  It took me forever to fall asleep at night because my heart swirled with ideas, and I was wide-awake at 5:00 am ready to start my day.  Oh my there was exhaustion, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

This past week I attended BookExpo where I had an opportunity to meet with agents, publicists, publishers, distributors, consultants and reviewers.  Although I was there as a published author, something that kept me grinning from ear to ear, I felt like I was going to throw up.  It was intense ~ my feelings, not those that I met.  I went alone because for me this about living my dream.  I am now a published author and I ain’t stopping at one book. Now I knew if I had asked my husband to go with me, he would have easily started conversations.  Jim is the kind of man that can talk to anyone and he believes in me.  Not a bad person to have on your team, let alone the added bonus of being married to this delicious man.  But I had to do this for myself.  It was about knowing this was a part of my divine plan and life purpose.  There were many times I walked past the organization or person I was there to speak to several times before I sucked it up and struck up a conversation.  My heart was in my throat, my stomach was in knots, and I couldn’t stop smiling.  I spoke about my book projects and event/retreat ideas.  I took them on a journey as I described my beliefs and philosophies.  I expressed my willingness and passion to be a collaborator and co-creator in my writing dream.  Courage and empowerment are the two words to most accurately describe what kept me going while my knees shook.  I allowed myself to be vulnerable and I knew I was on the right course.

So often I am asked for the secret to knowing which dream is the right dream to pursue.  Many of us, myself included, in the past have embraced the dreams of others as our own.  I believe in some part of our being we knew this wasn’t our path, but it seemed safer and we weren’t alone.  Of course there are the other times when we see what someone else has in their life and how happy they appear to be.  We want what they’re having, but in the end it’s not really meant for us.  Is there one right answer to the knowing which dream is truly ours?  We’re all as unique as the answer to the question.  We each have our unique way of understanding.  For me, it’s when I’m scared, well outside of my comfort zone, and still saying yes.  It’s about waking up before the sun is out and wanting to laugh and cry with joy over what I am manifesting.  I live what I love and anything short of that is unacceptable.  Here are some questions to ask yourself if you’re looking to test the validity of your dream(s):

√ Does your dream enliven you?

√ Is your dream aligned with your core values? (And if you don’t know your core values it’s time for some self-discovery.)

√ Do you need help to make this dream come true? (Have you dreamed big enough?)

√ Will this dream require you to grow and live your absolute truth without apology?

√ Will this dream make a difference and benefit others?

We all deserve to live the beauty of our dreams.  How will you embrace this truth?

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(Insert here…)

May 21, 2010 in Bring it on!, Life | 1 comment

This morning I was going through email and putting my best foot forward to archive and delete about 1,000 messages.  (Seriously, my email has gotten out of control!)  I came across an email from my sister, which included an attachment of my 11-year old nephew’s essay he had written for homework. It was titled, “Trying to get to New York”.  When I received it the first time, last November, I remember reading it at least 20 times and it was fun to revisit the imaginative and descriptive world.  There’s a cover page, but the more I look at it, I believe it should be called an intention page.  Dead in the center of the page is a picture of a NYC street, not the skyline that many an unimaginative person might have selected because it’s easier to locate these popular pictures of Manhattan as seen from the Hoboken and Weehawken side.  The area looks very similar to the part of town where my husband and I reside.  He’s bringing you into the heart of it all, the core, we’re not spectators; we’re participants.  He’s also declared what it will become: a Novel by Ross Mattia-Cooper.  Ross used words like spastic, force, and repulsive (description of a peanut butter sandwich) and illustrated in vivid detail the emotions and locations for the longest day in his life. His words were filled with enthusiasm and exuberance ~ as is he.  The more I pondered over Ross’ masterpiece, the more I thought about the words we use when describing events, observations, experiences and dreams in our lives ~ whether written or spoken.  Do we express ourselves in a way that ignites an unstoppable energy felt by anyone in close proximity?

Yesterday I had the pleasure to work with a client on a presentation he would be giving next week during a conference.  Although not a particularly shy person, my client doesn’t have a lot of public speaking or presenting experience.  This was a favor for a friend, but I believe this “so-called friend”, as my client jokingly referred to him, has provided a tremendous opportunity for growth.  While we worked together it was clear that there was a part of himself wanting to emerge.  I was pushing him outside of his comfort zone, but something was missing.  I stood up and shouted with laughter, “We need an audience!”  Without asking, I grabbed his arm and we left my office to walk across the street to the ING Café. There was a small group of people enjoying their coffee and tea and they were more than willing to participate.  What fun!  Throughout the next 30-minutes, we all noticed and agreed that it was when his words, body movement and spirit were aligned with intention (which was empowerment) that we felt the most engaged.  It was also when my client was the most centered, clear, energized and at the same time relaxed.

When we receive divine ideas from our hearts or an opportunity how do we move forward?  Initially I know there can be moments when the swirling imagery of limitless possibilities results in panic and an overwhelming sense of impossibilities arise.  When my response to a grand plan my heart has in store is the question “Are you crazy?”, I know what shows up on the other side is going to be tremendous.  Right now I’m in the process of editing a book that falls under the genre of non-fiction.  Non-Fiction!  I’m a fiction writer and have always connected with children’s literature – mostly years 9 – 11 and young adult.  When I received the image of my non-fiction book jacket one day while working, my immediate retort was “You’ve got the wrong person. Try Apartment 5B.” Yet the vision and inspiration wouldn’t leave.  I knew this was my book to write, and if I held onto the consciousness that “I don’t do non-fiction” or “how will I possibly fit this one more thing into my schedule”, there’s not a doubt in my mind the Universe would redirect the gift to someone else.  She doesn’t waste time.

My days are filled with creativity because I stated my intention years ago that’s what I wanted and needed.  It’s not always expressed by my writing, but when I develop and strategize with clients, cook dinner (family stop laughing), organize my office, design the interior of my home, or plan a project.  I state my demands for a life surrounded by expression with courage, joy and love.  My mission is to use my divine gifts and talents to make a difference, and I awake every day grateful for the next opportunity.  My name is Michele Mattia and I am a(n) (insert powerful, descriptive and energized adjective with fabulous and ridiculous noun.)

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We are more than ordinary

April 13, 2010 in Bring it on!, Life Purpose, Small Business, Starting Over | 1 comment

Courage. Excitement. Passion. These are just a few of the words that come to mind as I relive the first day of New York Entrepreneur Week. Although others have rarely, if ever, used the words shy and unassuming to define me, I do know on occasion I’ve exhibited traits similar to that of an introvert. Especially, when there’s been an opportunity to share my story or accomplishments for fear it looked like I was bragging or believed I was exceptional and more than ordinary. But having the confidence to express ourselves and honor the unique gifts and talents we possess is extraordinary. We are living in a world where authenticity, honesty and sincerity are not foreign concepts, but rather ideals for establishing relationships ranging from personal to professional. There’s courageousness to standing up and being proud of our endeavors, and the chance to participate in a venue where ideas and experiences are shared with others is inspiring to witness.

The people I met yesterday during the conference and at the evening event, Wok+Wine, are movers and shakers. Regardless of if they were guest speakers or attendees, their stories were magnificent and full of energy. They believed in themselves, their companies, products and the message they wanted to get out to the public. These talented and giving people weren’t kicking back in the “waiting room” for inspiration. They refuse to sit and think how nice it would be if one day their dreams, goals and ideas came true, but rather allowed themselves to be open to possibilities and receptive to the good that is coming their way. They are empowered to step out on faith and risk the unknown and when they spoke about their ideas or journey they did so with excitement, passion and ridiculous exuberance. Many of the speakers also shared the importance of giving back and providing value without being asked and without an agenda on what they will receive. They understood the Universal Law ~ we get back triple the good we put out into this world.

Peter Shankman, yesterday’s keynote, spoke about the exciting world we live in and how now is the perfect time for entrepreneurship, collaboration and cooperation. His words energized the auditorium and I thought for a moment he was going to levitate on stage. I heard stories were people refused to wait for the economy to change to provide more jobs in their areas of expertise, and instead developed their own company as a solopreneur or collaborated and began an organization with one or two partners. Creativity was expressed and they wore the love of what they are accomplishing. When asked if it was hard being an entrepreneur and to start something from scratch, all answered “yes” but with huge smiles. There’s a difference between working hard and doing what you love while the day flies by and working hard, spinning your wheels, resenting your career and it seems like forever until you can go home.

Here’s what I know to be true ~ everything we need we already have. We have what it takes to nurture the seed of an idea and watch it grow into a prosperous and abundant career, life and love. When I was in college, I had to withdraw from a computer-programming course or I would have failed. Yet I was able to create a successful technology-consulting firm in Manhattan specializing on the Macintosh platform that I owned for close to 12 years. I didn’t major or minor in business, yet I now own a second successful company with multiple streams of revenue. This isn’t to say that if you’re drawn to business school you shouldn’t go because you don’t need it. But at some point, we need to shut out the naysayers, especially when it’s our own ego, and trust the gifts we be given. We are exceptional. We are more than ordinary. We are beautiful and unique spirits and it’s time for all of us to shine.

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Are you willing?

April 12, 2010 in Change, Life, Shifting Consciousness | 3 comments

A couple of years ago, I attended a workshop and although I do not remember what the workshop was called, I do remember the first exercise. We each received a business card sized piece of paper with about 20 words, and at the top of the paper it read, “I am willing to be”. Before the workshop even started, we were charged with selecting five of the words reflecting who we were willing to be during out time together. These were words like present, giving, thankful, open, receptive, and grateful. One by one we were asked to stand up, say our names and state our five intentions. It was one thing to look at these group of words, several which by definition would ask many to step outside of their respective comfort zones, and courageously select five, but quite another to stand up in front of large group of people and claim your willingness. What an empowering exercise! The energy within the room not only shifted to a much higher level within minutes, but a connection amongst everyone was formed.

If my participation in a willingness exercise for a two-hour workshop was able to open my consciousness toward what is possible and increased what I received and learned, I knew that performing this exercise on a daily basis would generate a positive shift in what was coming into my life. I determine my “willingness to be” before the start of the workday, business meetings, visiting family, etc. One of the amazing concepts behind the power of will is the conscious choice we have to make a difference. We can choose to be a part of a solution, a part of change or we can choose to sit back and complain. How we are willing to think and act is similar to coming to a fork in the road. Are we willing to stay on the same path which we know is not working for us, but it is familiar and comforting; or are we willing to go forward with a change in thinking and a focus on good for everyone and everything even when we aren’t sure where this new road is leading?

Often I use this exercise in my own workshops or even with one-on-one clients. It takes courage to shut out old ways and ideas. When we are willing to change our thinking from negativity to positivity, we transform our lives and stagnation becomes manifestation. For example, ask yourself “Am I willing to forgive?” You many answer “yes”; however, if you’re still holding ill will toward others and hoping for retribution, then you’re blocking the flow of good coming into your life. Are you willing to be open and receptive to receiving good things in your life? Again, you can answer “yes”; however if you believe it’s selfish to ask for your dreams to become my reality, then those divine ideas you’ve been given will only wait around so long before the Universe passes them onto someone else.

This week I’m attending New York Entrepreneur Week in NYC, which is a non-profit movement, formed around the single belief: entrepreneurs change the world. The founders of NYEW were willing to make a difference by establishing an organization and conference that supports the knowing that entrepreneurs are activists and promoters of change. Yet without the willingness to be a proponent for change, this week would not be possible. As with most conferences there are evening events that allow for additional networking and relationship building. Are you willing to be the first person to say hello? Are you willing to stand up and state who you are and what you have been put on this planet to do?

Every day we receive numerous opportunities and if we are willing to be open and aware to their arrival then we continue to be active participants in the unfolding of our dreams, goals and ideas. Choose who you are willing to be today during your commute, at a conference or meeting, toward your family and friends, as well as yourself. Write the words down, state them with energy and enthusiasm, and carry them with you. Find five-minute windows throughout the day where you can center yourself and remain empowered by your conscious willingness. Oh and be ready for what is coming because it will be huge!

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Effortless and Energized vs. Despair and Discouragement (You get to choose!)

April 9, 2010 in Life, Shifting Consciousness | No comments

Raise your hand if you still have the occasional, or maybe even frequent, dream of being back in high school. During the dream any number of things occur: you can’t find your locker, you found your locker but can’t remember the combination to said locker, you can’t find your classroom, showing up to class in your underwear, and/or it’s graduation day but you forgot to take your last exam or turn in your final paper. You wake up in a panic, breathe a huge sigh of relief that it was only a dream, and then spend the remainder of the day figuring out the meaning.

After waking up before there was even a glimpse of crimson in the sky, I convinced my brain to go back to sleep only to wind up in a 20-minute dream. It was back in high school ~ my first day of senior year. Osceola High School looked identical to the last time I was there, all of my friends looked the same, and I showed up feeling confident and self-assured because after all, I was a senior and I had my year mapped out. However, the minute I walked into the corridor friends showed up asking if I had been to the auditorium to pick up the Fall catalog and four-page questionnaire to be completed before classes began at 9 am. Apparently, the school had decided to do away with the curriculum and wanted their seniors to be prepared for the unexpected. All courses you had picked over the summer had been removed and you know had a 30-minute window to decide on new classes and to see how much you knew or didn’t know based on 50 questions. I freaked out! (Of course, the “me” at 17 would have freaked out as well. I was very similar to Reese Witherspoon’s character, Tracy Flick, in the movie, Election ~ sans the sleeping with one teacher, while framing another.) After picking up the catalog and questionnaire, I tried to find a quiet place where I could review everything, but no one would give me space. Friends, teachers and guidance counselors crowded me trying to tell me what I should be doing, the classes I should be taking, and how the direction I wanted isn’t the right one and to trust in their wisdom.

I woke up ever grateful it was a dream scare, but also remembered events and feelings from the day before which had unnerved and made me feel uncomfortable and out of balance. Yesterday brought with it a lot of free time for me ~ something I’m not used to having. By free time, I mean appointments not scheduled back-to-back, fires not needing to be put out and my phone not ringing off the hook. Most people would be thrilled by this kind of workday. Although I was busy yesterday, it wasn’t the kind of busy I believed moved me forward. Why? If I’m not moving a million miles a minute that where’s the progress and my brain believes I work best under pressure. Imagine having the time to put heart and feeling into your daily tasks and to make deliberate choices based on what you know is right versus what will do for now because of the false belief that everyone in your world needs a piece of you and can’t survive unless you are taking care of them.

It takes great strength to follow what our heart is telling us because the heart doesn’t shout it out. It’s calm and peaceful and most often heard when we allow ourselves moments of silence. It’s the brain and ego that won’t tone it down, and we have every right to tell it to shut up. My belief that I didn’t move forward due to lack of tangible evidence was an ego idea. The TRUTH was I ended up connecting with friends in Cleveland and heart stormed a project and began to brainstorm for a chapter I’m writing and a future lecture I’ll be delivering. The frustration with myself because I didn’t actually put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard I now realize is because I still needed to imagine and visualize without my brain trying to control the outcome.

It’s hard to ignore outside influences, but if we trust in the feeling we receive as we make choices (effortless and energized vs. despair and discouragement) it’s easier to determine who is speaking to us ego or spirit.

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Saying Yes! (Even when the idea makes you want to throw up!)

April 6, 2010 in Bring it on!, Life Purpose, Spirit | 3 comments

Last Friday evening I received an opportunity to write an essay for the NY Post, which appeared in this past Sunday’s edition. How the assignment showed up was just as significant as the gift itself. Yes, I will forever tout the importance of allowing yourself to be open and receptive to your good, to answer the door and say yes it’s my time to shine, and to stay grounded in what you know is your absolute truth. No one and nothing can take away what is yours to receive and achieve. The only one that can block your good is you. We all know it because we’ve all been very good blockers at one time or another. But if you’ve been reading my blogs and the stories I’ve shared, you also understand the importance of knowing you and your message. What you have to say is important, what you want to do in this world is significant, and once word gets out on the awesomeness that is you, you need to keep on keeping on.

My NY Post opportunity resulted from one friend thinking of me while speaking to her roommate who was sharing an assignment her friend at the newspaper had for the Sunday edition. People remember those who are authentic, sincere, honest and transparent. The essay topic was exciting and made me want to throw up at the same time. What are the three things “everyone” tells you not to discuss? Politics. Religion. Finances. Actually, I have to say that I’ve been pretty good at that rule and make sure I always know my audience, even when it’s amongst friends and loved ones. Yet, part of what I do for a living revolves my words, my message, speaking, writing, inspiring, and motivating. I don’t believe in lecturing and have always shared my personal experiences, which shows just how relatable I am to others who are going for it. So when I was asked to write a piece on my spirituality and my former relationship with the Catholic Church, I was flat out scared. My heart raced because I knew how I would write it, and my stomach did flip-flops because I understood the sensitivity spirituality plays in this world ~ not to mention the strong emotions that surround the Church. I knew they were looking for something sensational, and although I let them know I did not intend to trash anyone but to give an honest opinion of my experience, they still agreed. I’m not sure if it was because they were unable to find someone willing to discuss something so personal or that no one thought it could be done in 400 words. Yes, 400 words! Trust me, there was a lot of editing!

If you ask me what I want to accomplish with my writing, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, and public speaking, it’s to allow others to heal, become inspired, step outside of their comfort zones, push boundaries, and feel emotion. My very goals were reached on Sunday and I’ve heard from all sides regarding my essay. And while I knew to expect anger and frustration, it didn’t make reading the more negative comments any easier. Some might say if you’re going to be “in it”, you need to get tougher skin. While I think that might be true, if it means you’ve shut down any part of your true self than you are no better off. Regardless of your dream, there are going to be the naysayers who don’t like it, are scared by it, and want you to fail. It’s nothing personal, although it sure can feel like it at times, and more aligned with where they are on their own personal journey. Their fears have nothing to do with you.

Did you arrive on this planet to live out someone else’s dream or are you here to live your life purpose and utilize your unique gifts to make a difference? What are you going to do to manifest the beauty of your dreams? What have you come here to become? I know that I choose to love and be loved outrageously. I know that I choose to live my absolute truth without apology. The bigger you play, the more “teachers” and “challenges” show up. Embrace them all. You have arrived!

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What do you want to be when you grow up?

March 18, 2010 in Career, Change, Life Purpose | No comments

When I grow up I’m gonna be a policeman and a fireman, a shortstop for the New York Yankees, an astronaut, and a superhero. ~ Response from a five-year old when asked what he wants to be when he grows up. Let me add that his reply was said with ridiculous amounts of enthusiasm and confidence that he indeed would “be” each of those items he listed. Children are very courageous and empowered without being conscious of it. They aren’t burdened with societal norms and beliefs, haven’t been conditioned with false truths, and aren’t embracing lack and limitation. Because they are 100% connected with their hearts, their dreams are endless. Their powers of love and imagination are fully expressed. I’m sure at some point someone will tell my five-year old friend that there’s no way he could ever be a superhero because they don’t exist, but I guarantee you that he will carry that dream somewhere inside of him forever. It’s not always the “title” we want to achieve in our lives when we dream big. We are all born with an innate essence, as well as unique talents and skills. Often we aren’t aware of these amazing gifts because what comes naturally to us is as easy as breathing. When we’re children, we connect to these larger than life dreams because our very beings make up the essence of what the “title” requires or represents.

Ask yourself two questions today: What would I do today knowing that I didn’t need to worry about money or time and I was guaranteed 100% success? What do I want to be when I grow up? I realize just about everyone reading this is a grown up, but we’ve never left our inner child. He or she is still a part of us, although we might have pushed them down so we don’t hear their guidance. What did you aspire to be as a child, teenager, and now as an adult? Out of what I hope to be a very long list, are there ideas you would still enjoy exploring? Exploration is aligned with research and you’re not committed to anything more than learning more about the very titles, positions, careers and superhero status you once desired. Also take the time to look at why you didn’t choose to pursue your dreams. Was it out of fear, being told your choices were irresponsible or feeling limited? If your dreams are still calling to you it doesn’t matter if they are rational or irrational. It’s time to break them down and see how the skills, talent and experience needed for your dream connects directly with your essence and unique gifts.

There’s a reason this divine idea came to you regardless of your age and have fun taking the time to discover why. I have many friends who love to cook and they are awesome at it. They create recipes from scratch and I am a grateful tester. Most of them do not want to go to culinary school, do not want to be a chef or a caterer; however, something clicks when they are in the kitchen. Some find it relaxing and a form of meditation, which allows them to clear their mind. Others enjoy the act of connecting with their inner artist and creating a dish filled with color. If they delved deeper into what it is about cooking and entertaining that they enjoyed a rather long list of elements would result. There could be several items on their elements list that connect and could be explored further toward a possible new career or business. We are living in exciting times where the old rules of work, career and jobs do not apply. There are many creative strategies that support living and doing the life you love. Are you willing to be willing?

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