Digital marketing, marketing, personal brand, authenticity, personal growth, gratitude
Those of you who have followed my agency's journey will notice that I've been showing up here a bit more than I used to. And you're probably thinking this is exactly what a strong brand should be doing every day, and you would be right. But, today I want to share what's been happening behind the scenes.
It's been a slow process, but I’ve discovered that not only does my work provide an opportunity for me to help people embrace their purpose, build their business, and lead a more fulfilling life, it's also a way for me to heal my broken heart. Through the relationships I have built here with all of you, my clients and community, I am able to contribute and make a difference, which brings me joy, no matter what challenges I face.
Unless you have followed me for a long time, most of you wouldn't know the personal heartache I have experienced over the past few years. But, just because you aren't aware of mine, doesn't mean that you haven't experienced your own challenges and hardships. And my heart is with you.
I don't make it a habit to share deeply personal details, because although I believe in speaking from the heart and showing up with authenticity, I also value privacy. Some things should be kept sacred. I'm sure you would agree.
With that being said, I chose to share this not seeking sympathy, but to be fully transparent regarding my personal journey and the reason why I had to take a step back from my business. And to let you know that if or when you need to take a step back, you don't need anyone's permission and you certainly shouldn't feel guilty for taking what you need for your own health and well-being.
In the past three years, I have experienced deep heartache with the loss of both my parents. It still seems unreal to say these words. There are no words to express what it’s like to lose your parents. You see the world differently. Your priorities change. You have newfound love and appreciation for all the little things and the big things. You cherish every single day, your family, your health, and the many ways that love surrounds you. You stop taking things for granted. You are reminded that so much is beyond your control, but by focusing on what you can control, your thoughts empower you and give you hope.
Undoubtedly, you too have experienced a similar hardship or loss. And something I have been reminded of during this entire experience, is that as human beings, we must show compassion towards ourselves and grant ourselves grace. It is perfectly acceptable to take a step back and prioritize self-care. You've all heard the saying, self-care is not selfish. Sometimes, we must make ourselves top priority.
Although I have taken a step back, I have continued to work part-time. And, I have continued because I am passionate about helping people embrace their purpose and build their business. Something that, during my corporate career, I dreamed of having for myself. But I came to realize that my work served as a positive outlet. It allowed me to help others even when I felt powerless. It was a way for me to feel valuable and make a meaningful contribution. And helping others has helped me heal.
However, balancing emotional healing and creative work has proven to be a challenge. Because I haven't completely stepped away, I've found it difficult to tap into creativity the way I once did. Probably because I am no longer the same person I once was.
Experiencing heartache and pain has changed me. I'm sure it has changed you too. One thing I have learned is that it is extremely difficult to feel both sadness and creativity simultaneously. This is the reason I couldn't devote the same amount of time to my business in the last few years.
Undeniably, they have been difficult. Nevertheless, I made a conscious effort to show up for my business, my family, and the world around me. Some days that was nearly impossible, and truthfully, I still encounter those days. At times, I even feel guilty for not being able to balance and achieve everything I once did. But, having grace and compassion has been fundamental to my healing.
At times, I've felt like my creativity, inspiration, and passion were gone. For those of you who have experienced this, you know it is a scary feeling. And although I still struggle with these feelings from time to time, I'm driven by a sense of purpose that I've known since childhood. Which is why, despite the challenges, I remain optimistic. I know that the only path is forward. The only direction is up.
All of our experiences can be viewed as an opportunity for personal growth and a powerful way to help others on their journey. I believe it is our experiences that give us the empathy and understanding to support others experiencing similar situations. I believe it is our human responsibility to let our experiences be utilized for this purpose. We can turn our tragedies into triumphs.
Slowly, I am starting to feel like myself again. At my core, I believe I am a strong, happy, passionate, creative woman and entrepreneur. Just like so many of you. I see you! I want nothing more than to be the person I was born to be, and in the process, make my parents proud. They would want me to live my best life and do the things I love most. But, above all, they would want me to follow my heart and be happy.
This circles back to my work and passion for helping people embrace their purpose, and build their business. Perhaps the silver lining is realizing that I am stronger and more resilient than I ever imagined. And maybe reading this will give you courage to face your challenges and pain and to know that they will make you stronger and more resilient too. You are braver than you think. More powerful than you know.
We all face adversity in life, but if we allow it, every challenge and hardship we encounter can be an opportunity for growth and inspiration, even transformation.
Despite the heartache and loss, I have so much to be grateful for. So many people to love and appreciate. Gratitude is a powerful thing! It has helped me to focus on all the good in my life versus what I have lost.
This year I married the love of my life. My husband is my biggest blessing. Despite the pain, there is love all around. Our wedding day was the most romantic and magical day of my life. I am forever grateful for the love and friendship that surround me. And I am grateful for all of you. May you be blessed with hope and love and inspiration, especially when you need it most.
The last few years have indeed been bittersweet, but as my mother used to say, there is always sunshine after the rain - and I am feeling the sun again.
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