Change Is Beautiful: Embracing Transformation to Thrive in Life

In one of our episodes of Thriving Changes in the previous season, we sat down with Professor Paul Hawkinson, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Transform Capital, a nonprofit organization that offers low-cost mortgage and business loans to families in need. He is also an Associate Professor of Business Strategy and Finance at North Park University. Our conversation was about the deep wisdom he’s gleaned through years of embracing change, navigating adversity, and helping others thrive. This episode is an invitation to the audience to reflect on how we can embrace transformation in our own lives.

Below, we’ll unpack some of the powerful messages from the conversation and explore how you can apply them to your own journey. By following these insights, you’ll be inspired to grow, connect, and thrive—even when faced with life’s greatest challenges.

Listen to Your Heart, Not the Noise Around You

Prof. Hawkinson asked a pivotal question: “How are you listening to yourself and your heart about what you truly want to change, rather than succumbing to the pressure from parents, from others, or even from staying in your current success? None of that really matters in the end.”

In today’s world, it’s easy to let external voices dictate our choices. Parents, friends, and societal norms often set unspoken expectations, leaving us feeling trapped in roles or careers that don’t align with our inner desires. But the truth is, fulfillment only comes when we live authentically.

Practical Steps to Start Listening to Your Heart:

• Schedule Quiet Time: Dedicate 15 minutes daily to sit quietly, journal, or meditate. Pay attention to what truly excites or frustrates you.

• Ask Questions: Reflect on questions like, what do I truly want? Am I living for myself or others? Honest answers can lead you to your path.

• Take Small Steps: Start exploring what feels right. If a new career or lifestyle appeals to you, take one small action toward it this week.

 The Power of Conversations

Take more time to engage in meaningful conversations.

“We all need to talk more, to understand different perspectives rather than argue.” In a world divided by opinions, many of us have lost the art of listening. But conversations are transformative when approached with openness.

When we listen to understand—not to respond—we build bridges instead of barriers. Whether it’s speaking with someone from a different background or simply asking a friend how they’re doing, these exchanges foster empathy and growth.

Ways to Have Meaningful Conversations:

• Practice Active Listening: When someone speaks, focus entirely on their words. Avoid interrupting or planning your response.

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Invite depth into conversations by asking, what’s been on your mind lately? or How do you see this situation?

• Step Outside Your Circle: Talk to someone outside your usual group—a coworker in a different department, a neighbor, or a stranger. These exchanges expand your perspective.

Relationships Remind Us What Matters

“Relationships ground us; they remind us of what really matters,” Prof. Hawkinson emphasized. In life’s whirlwind, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important. Achievements and material success are fleeting, but relationships—with family, friends, and communities—provide lasting fulfillment.

How to Strengthen Relationships:

• Prioritize Time Together: Schedule regular check-ins or outings with loved ones. Quality time builds connection.

• Express Gratitude: Let the people in your life know you value them. A simple “Thank you for being there” goes a long way.

• Be Present: Put down your phone and focus on the moment. Presence is one of the greatest gifts you can offer.

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

“Push yourself out of your comfort zone—this is how you connect with others.” Growth happens when we take risks, try new things, and meet new people. Staying comfortable may feel safe, but it limits your potential.

“If we don’t try something, we’ll never know if we like it or not.” Life is an experiment. The more you explore, the more opportunities you create for yourself.

Steps to Push Beyond Comfort:

• Try One New Thing Weekly: Whether it’s taking a different route to work, attending a new class, or trying a new hobby, small steps build confidence.

• Say Yes More Often: Accept invitations or opportunities that scare you a little. Fear often signals growth.

• Reflect on Successes: After stepping outside your comfort zone, write down what you learned. These reflections build courage for future challenges.

Find Joy Beyond Work

Find joy outside of work.

It’s easy to get consumed by work, but as Prof. Hawkinson urged, “Find something outside of work that engages your heart.” Whether it’s volunteering, hiking, painting, or gardening, pursuing passions outside of your job creates balance and fulfillment.

How to Discover Your Passion:

• Experiment Freely: Attend workshops, join clubs, or try online tutorials in areas you’re curious about.

• Reflect on Childhood Joys: What activities brought you happiness as a child? Revisit them.

• Dedicate Time: Block out time for hobbies each week. Consistency deepens your engagement.

View Failure as a Teacher

“Everything we’ve done, even our failures, contributes to valuable learnings,” Prof. Hawkinson shared. Mistakes aren’t dead ends; they’re stepping stones. Failure is a natural part of growth, and each stumble teaches you something valuable.

How to Embrace Failure:

• Reframe It: Instead of seeing failure as defeat, view it as feedback. Ask yourself, what did this teach me?

• Celebrate Effort: Acknowledge the courage it took to try, regardless of the outcome.

• Move Forward: Don’t dwell on what went wrong. Focus on what you can do differently next time.

Celebrate Change

Finally, Prof. Hawkinson reminded us that “Change is beautiful. Change is what sets you apart.” Life is a constant evolution, and resisting change only causes stress. When we embrace transformation, we open ourselves to new opportunities and deeper fulfillment.

It’s only when we explore that we find ways to be innovative. Innovation—in work, relationships, or personal growth—comes from stepping into the unknown.

How to Embrace Change:

• Start Small: Make incremental changes in your routine, like trying a new recipe or rearranging your living space.

• Seek Inspiration: Read stories or listen to podcasts about people who’ve thrived through change.

• Trust the Process: Remind yourself that every transformation has a purpose, even if it’s unclear at first.

Closing Thoughts

This episode of Thriving Changes left us with a powerful reminder: resilience is born from embracing change and connecting with others. Prof. Paul Hawkinson’s insights encourage us to live authentically, seek meaningful relationships, and celebrate the beauty of transformation.

The journey won’t always be easy, but by taking small, intentional steps, you can thrive in the face of adversity. So, ask yourself today: What is one small change I can make to align my life with my heart? Then take the leap. Because change isn’t just inevitable—it’s beautiful.

Embracing Growth as Women Entrepreneurs

Jean LaVallie, Founder and CEO of Women Entrepreneurs’ Secrets of Success (WESOS) joined us on Thriving Changes and shared profound insights on navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, personal growth, and resilience. Jean's wisdom isn’t just for entrepreneurs - it’s for anyone striving to overcome challenges and embrace meaningful change.

Through her words, we’re reminded that adversity can be our greatest teacher, and by adopting certain mindsets and practices, we can not only survive tough times but thrive. Below, we’ll unpack her insights and offer practical steps to help you apply them in your own life.

The Power of Community: "When you have a whole community that refuses to let you fail, that’s a game-changer."

Success isn’t a competition; it’s a collective movement.

Jean highlighted how vital it is to have a supportive network. For women entrepreneurs especially, balancing business and personal life can feel isolating. But being surrounded by like-minded individuals who truly care and encourage you changes the game.

Practical Steps:

• Seek Out Communities: Find or create a supportive group like WESOS. These communities don’t just provide networking opportunities; they offer a space to share struggles, learn from others, and receive moral support.

• Be an Active Contributor: Relationships thrive on reciprocity. Support others in your community, celebrate their successes, and lend a hand when they face challenges.

• Build a Safety Net: Identify 3-5 people in your life whom you can call for advice, motivation, or simply a listening ear. Know that you're not alone.

Empathy Over Ego: "Seek to understand first before trying to be understood."

In personal and professional relationships, Jean emphasizes the importance of understanding others before asserting our own perspective. Ego-driven reactions often lead to conflict, while empathy fosters connection and solutions.

Practical Steps:

• Pause Before Reacting: When faced with a disagreement, pause and reflect. Ask yourself, “What could this person be experiencing right now that’s causing them to act this way?”

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: When in doubt, ask questions like, “Can you help me understand your perspective?” It signals respect and opens the door to meaningful dialogue.

• Practice Active Listening: This means truly hearing someone out without planning your response in your head. Acknowledge their feelings before sharing your perspective. 

The Importance of Boundaries: "You cannot change anyone else. All you can do is change yourself, your perspective of them, and set boundaries."

Resilience often comes from knowing what you can control and letting go of what you can’t. Setting boundaries protects your energy and peace.

Practical Steps:

• Define Your Non-Negotiables: What values or priorities are essential to you? Whether it’s time with family, work-life integration, or mental health, establish clear boundaries around them.

• Communicate Assertively: Boundaries aren’t just for you - they need to be communicated effectively to others. Use “I” statements, such as, “I need uninterrupted focus during work hours.”

• Stay Consistent: Once you set boundaries, stick to them. Consistency builds trust and reinforces the importance of your needs.

Choosing Peace: "I choose peace. I know that’s within my power."

Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges but finding peace amid them. This requires mindfulness, self-awareness, and a commitment to inner calm.

Practical Steps:

• Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, journaling, or deep breathing to stay centered. Apps like Headspace or Calm can help you get started.

• Adopt Affirmations: Repeat affirmations like, “I choose peace over conflict,” or “I am in control of my reactions.” Over time, these affirmations reshape your mindset.

• Detach from Negativity: Be selective about the energy you allow into your life. Limit interactions with toxic individuals and curate uplifting content in your social media feed.

Find Your Voice and Use It Wisely: "Make sure your revolution is for good."

Every word, action, and message you share has the potential to inspire change, uplift others, and shape the world around you.

Jean reminds us that finding your voice is powerful, but it comes with responsibility. Words have the ability to inspire change or cause harm, so they must be used thoughtfully.

Practical Steps:

• Define Your Values: Identify the causes and principles that matter most to you. Let them guide how and when you use your voice.

• Amplify Others: Use your platform to uplift others, particularly those whose voices are often unheard. Being a leader means creating space for others to shine.

• Pause and Reflect: Before speaking or posting online, ask yourself, “Is this kind? Is it necessary? Is it constructive?”

Letting Go of Scarcity: "We can’t truly evolve until we let go of old habits of competing with each other and the scarcity mentality."

The scarcity mentality - believing there’s not enough success, resources, or opportunities to go around - can lead to unhealthy competition. Jean urges us to adopt a mindset of abundance and collaboration.

Practical Steps:

• Celebrate Others’ Wins: Make a conscious effort to cheer on your peers, even if you’re struggling. This rewires your brain to see possibilities, not limitations.

• Focus on Your Strengths: Instead of comparing yourself to others, hone your unique skills and passions. The more you focus on your path; the less scarcity will dictate your thoughts.

• Collaborate Over Compete: Look for opportunities to partner with others, even in competitive spaces. Collaboration often creates more value than going it alone.

Empowering Yourself: "You don’t empower anyone; you give them the tools

True empowerment comes from within. While external resources and encouragement are helpful, it’s up to us to take action and claim our power.

Practical Steps:

• Invest in Personal Growth: Read books, attend workshops, or take online courses to develop your skills. Knowledge is a key tool for empowerment.

• Take Small, Bold Steps: Confidence grows with action. Even small wins, like speaking up in a meeting or setting a challenging goal, build momentum.

• Surround Yourself with Inspiration: Align yourself with people, content, and experiences that uplift and motivate you.

Believing in Yourself: "You have something to offer, even when opportunities aren’t showing up."

Resilience starts with self-belief. Challenges and rejections are inevitable, but believing in your value will keep you moving forward.

Practical Steps:

• Create a Vision Board: Visualize your goals and aspirations. Seeing them daily can reinforce your belief in your potential.

• Track Your Wins: Keep a journal of your achievements, big or small. Reflecting on past successes can remind you of your capabilities during tough times.

• Set Accountability Goals: Jean’s advice to “share a deadline with someone” is powerful. When others know your goals, you’re more likely to stay committed.

Embrace the Journey: "Everyone has a different journey, and everyone has struggles."

We’re often quick to compare our struggles to others. Jean’s reminder encourages us to focus on our unique path and extend grace to ourselves and others.

Practical Steps:

• Practice Gratitude: Reflect on what’s going well in your life, even amidst challenges. Gratitude shifts your focus from lack to abundance.

• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge your progress along the way, not just the end goal. Every step forward matters.

• Extend Compassion: Understand that everyone is navigating their own battles. Approach others with empathy rather than judgment.  

Final Thoughts

Jean’s words are a testament to the resilience, courage, and wisdom that come from embracing change. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone striving for growth, her insights remind us that we have the power to transform our lives - and the lives of others - through community, empathy, and intentional action.

As Jean beautifully said, “Find your voice and use it for good.” Let’s start today by showing up for ourselves, for others, and for the abundant possibilities that await.

What step will you take today to thrive through change? Let us know in the comments or share your story. We’d love to hear from you.

Investing in Yourself and Embracing Your Journey

In the episode of Thriving Changes with Marianna Lead, an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Master Certified Coach and the founder of Goal Imagery Institute, she shared wisdom born from years of guiding others and navigating her own journey of resilience. Marianna’s words were inspiring, practical, and deeply resonant. In this post, we’re diving into the powerful lessons she offered to equip you with actionable steps to thrive through life’s inevitable changes.

Investing in yourself is the best decision you’ll ever make.

Investing in Yourself: The First Step to True Growth

Marianna emphasized the transformative power of investing in yourself—not just financially, but with your time, energy, and belief.

“I may not have made any money, but I learned so much—about running your own business, trusting yourself, doing things on a grand scale, and following through with your destiny.”

This mindset reminds us that personal growth is not always linear or immediately lucrative. The true return on investment often lies in the knowledge, experience, and confidence gained along the way. Whether you're starting a new business, shifting careers, or pursuing a passion project, these steps can help:

• Start Small, Dream Big: Begin with attainable goals while keeping your larger vision in sight. Track your progress and celebrate small wins to build momentum.

• Seek Knowledge: Dedicate time to learning—through books, courses, or mentors. Treat each setback as an opportunity to deepen your understanding.

• Reframe Risk: Rather than fearing failure, see it as a part of the process. Invest in yourself with the understanding that growth takes time and courage.

Aligning with a Higher Purpose

“If you're sincere in wanting something to happen, not just for the money but because there's a deeper reason, a higher purpose, if you stick with it, it will happen eventually.”

Pursuing a purpose-driven life doesn’t mean money isn’t important—it means it’s not the sole motivator. To stay connected to your purpose:

• Define Your “Why”: Write down why you’re pursuing your goal. Keep this reason visible to remind yourself of what truly matters.

• Stay Grounded: When challenges arise, return to your “why.” This grounding will provide clarity and strength during tough times.

• Give Back: A purpose-driven journey often involves impacting others. Look for ways your work can contribute to the greater good.

Practical steps to get started:

• Reflect on moments that made you feel deeply fulfilled. What themes emerge?

• Create a mission statement for yourself. Let this guide your decisions.

Letting Go of the Need for Universal Approval

“You're not supposed to be liked by everyone. This concept is hard to digest because, by nature, we want to be liked by everyone.”

Marianna’s reminder is a liberating truth. No matter how genuine, talented, or hardworking you are, you’ll never please everyone—and that’s okay. To embrace this idea:

• Focus on Your Tribe: Understand that your energy and authenticity will naturally attract like-minded people. Shift your attention from critics to those who support and align with your values.

• Redefine Rejection: Instead of seeing rejection as a failure, view it as a redirection toward the right people and opportunities.

• Practice Self-Compassion: When criticism stings, remind yourself of your worth. Journaling or speaking affirmations can help.

Practical steps to implement:

• Identify your core values and ensure your actions align with them.

• Set boundaries with people or situations that drain your energy.

Everything is a Lesson: Learning from Life’s Experiences

“Everything we do and everything that happens is for our learning. If we can understand ourselves just a little bit better, maybe we can understand the universe a little bit better too.”

This profound insight encourages us to see life’s challenges as opportunities to grow. To adopt this mindset:

• Cultivate Reflection: Spend time daily reflecting on your experiences. Ask yourself, “What did I learn today?”

• Adopt a Growth Mindset: Believe that skills, intelligence, and resilience can be developed through effort and perseverance.

• Welcome Discomfort: Embrace challenges as part of your personal evolution.

Practical steps:

• Keep a journal to document lessons from both successes and failures.

• When faced with adversity, ask, “What is this teaching me?”

Overcoming Self-Doubt and Owning Your Potential

Marianna shared an epiphany:

“I’m smart. So why don’t I give myself the same ideas? What’s stopping me from opening my own school? Instead, I give my ideas to others and wait for them to act. When, in fact, I have the same capacity to do it myself.”

This is a call to recognize your own power and stop waiting for external validation. To take ownership of your potential:

• Recognize Your Strengths: Make a list of your skills, achievements, and qualities. Use it as a reminder of your capabilities.

• Challenge Limiting Beliefs: Ask yourself, “What’s holding me back?” Replace self-doubt with empowering affirmations.

• Take the Leap: Action builds confidence. Start small but start. Each step forward reinforces your belief in yourself.

Practical steps:

• Identify one idea you’ve been sitting on. Take one action today to move it forward.

• Seek mentors or peers who inspire you to think bigger.

Some of the most beautiful moments happen when you trust the process, stay present, and let things flow.

Allowing Life to Unfold

“Allow life to evolve and unfold, moment by moment, day by day. We do things when we are ready, and we move forward when we are ready to move forward.”

This wisdom encourages us to let go of rigid timelines and trust in the natural rhythm of life. To embrace this philosophy:

• Practice Mindfulness: Stay present. Focus on what you can do today rather than worrying about the future.

• Release Control: Understand that some things are beyond your control. Focus on what you can influence.

• Trust the Process: Believe that progress, no matter how slow, is still progress.

Practical steps:

• Start a gratitude practice to stay present and appreciate the journey.

• When you feel stuck, remind yourself, “I’ll move forward when I’m ready.”

Final Thoughts: Thriving Through Change

Marianna Lead’s insights are a testament to the power of resilience, purpose, and self-belief. Life’s changes are not obstacles but opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive. As you navigate your own path, remember:

• Invest in yourself.

• Align with your purpose.

• Let go of the need for universal approval.

• Learn from every experience.

• Take small steps toward your goals.

• Own your potential.

• Trust the journey.

Change is inevitable, but with the right mindset and tools, you can transform challenges into opportunities and adversity into growth. Take a moment today to reflect, take a small step forward, and remind yourself of the incredible power you already possess.

Thriving Through Change: Turning Adversity into Opportunity

Change is inevitable. It’s one of life’s constants, yet it’s also one of the most challenging experiences we face. But what if we shifted our perspective? What if, instead of fearing change, we embraced it as a chance to grow, evolve, and thrive? These were the themes explored on the latest episode of Thriving Changes, featuring Bianca Cotton, a podcast host and entrepreneurial leader with deep roots in nonprofit work. While the conversation centered on Bianca’s wisdom, the insights shared are universal and can help anyone navigate life’s difficulties with resilience and courage.

Let’s unpack some of the profound truths from this episode and explore practical steps you can take to implement them in your own life.

Take Out All the Limitations: Give Yourself Space to Dream

Bianca reminded us of the importance of dreaming without constraints. When we strip away the self-imposed limitations, societal expectations, or fears of failure, we open ourselves to endless possibilities. Dreams fuel our purpose and give us direction.

Practical Steps:

• Journal Freely: Set aside time to write about what you would do if nothing were standing in your way. Let your imagination run wild without filtering your thoughts.

• Create a Vision Board: Use images, words, and symbols to represent your dreams. Place it somewhere you’ll see daily as a reminder of your aspirations.

• Challenge Your Beliefs: Ask yourself, “What’s holding me back?” Identify limiting beliefs and actively work to reframe them. Replace “I can’t” with “What if I could?”

Ask Yourself: What Do You Want to Learn and What Do You Want to Give?

This dual-focus mindset keeps us grounded. Growth isn’t just about what we can achieve but also about what we can contribute. Learning and giving create a cycle of personal fulfillment and meaningful impact.

Practical Steps:

• Set Clear Intentions: With each new project or goal, write down two questions: “What’s one thing I want to learn?” and “What’s one way I can give?” Keep these answers in view to stay aligned with your purpose.

• Volunteer or Mentor: Sharing your knowledge and skills with others can be deeply rewarding and offers fresh perspectives on your own journey.

• Enroll in Courses or Read Books: Constantly seek knowledge in areas that excite you or align with your goals.

Pour Into Yourself: You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup

We can only serve others when we are full ourselves. Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Practical Steps:

• Develop a Self-Care Routine: Dedicate time each day to activities that rejuvenate you, whether that’s exercise, meditation, reading, or spending time in nature.

• Say No to Overcommitment: Learn to set boundaries and protect your energy. Saying no to others can sometimes mean saying yes to yourself.

• Check In with Yourself: Regularly ask, “What do I need right now?” Whether it’s rest, creativity, or connection, honor your needs.

Remember: You Have Done Hard Things Before

When facing challenges, Bianca reminds us to reflect on past victories. The fact that you have overcome hard things in the past is proof of your resilience and strength.

Practical Steps:

• Create a “Resilience List”: Write down three to five moments when you overcame significant obstacles. Keep this list handy for when you need a reminder of your capability.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate even minor accomplishments. This reinforces the belief that you can handle challenges.

• Practice Affirmations: Repeat affirmations like, “I am capable of overcoming hard things” to train your mind to focus on your strengths.

Visualize What You Want and Believe in the Possibilities

Fear often blinds us to the possibilities on the other side of it. Bianca’s advice to visualize and believe as if you already have what you want is a powerful tool for overcoming fear.

Practical Steps:

• Meditate with Intention: Spend 5-10 minutes each day visualizing your goals. Picture yourself living the life you desire in vivid detail.

• Write in the Present Tense: Instead of saying, “I want to be successful,” write, “I am successful.” Acting as if you already have what you want can shift your mindset.

• Focus on the “Why”: When fear arises, remind yourself why you’re pursuing your goal. Your purpose can propel you forward.

Visualizing your goals is a powerful tool for turning your dreams into reality.

Every Little Thing Counts: The Ocean Was Formed Drop by Drop

Incremental progress leads to monumental change. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by big dreams, but consistent, small actions add up over time.

Practical Steps:

• Break Goals into Micro-Steps: Instead of focusing on the end goal, identify the smallest actionable steps you can take today.

• Track Your Progress: Use a planner, app, or notebook to record daily accomplishments. Seeing your progress builds momentum.

• Celebrate the Process: Instead of waiting until you’ve reached the finish line, take time to appreciate your efforts along the way.

Heal From the Past to Move Forward

Unresolved pain from childhood or past experiences can create barriers to growth. Reena’s reminder to reflect and heal is critical for breaking free from limiting patterns.

Practical Steps:

• Seek Professional Help: Therapy or counseling can provide tools to process and heal from past wounds.

• Reflect Through Writing: Journaling can help you uncover patterns, beliefs, and experiences that need addressing.

• Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself as you work through difficult emotions. Healing is a journey, not a destination.

Stay Connected to Your “Why”

Knowing your deeper purpose—your “why”—can make all the difference. It’s the anchor that keeps you steady when fear and doubt creep in.

Practical Steps:

• Write a Purpose Statement: Define your “why” in one to two sentences and revisit it often.

• Create a Daily Reminder: Whether it’s a sticky note, a phone background, or a mantra, keep your “why” visible to stay motivated.

• Surround Yourself with Support: Share your “why” with friends or mentors who can encourage you during tough times.

Build a Support System and Seek Encouragement

Nobody thrives in isolation. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you is crucial for navigating life’s challenges.

Practical Steps:

• Find Your Tribe: Join groups or communities that align with your values and interests. Being around like-minded individuals fosters connection.

• Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or mentors when you need support.

• Be a Supporter: Encourage and uplift others. The energy you give often comes back to you tenfold.

Embracing Change and Thriving

The wisdom shared during this episode of Thriving Changes highlights that resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges but about transforming them into opportunities for growth. When we give ourselves permission to dream, pour into our well-being, heal from the past, and stay connected to our purpose, we unlock the power to thrive amid adversity.

Change may not always feel comfortable, but it is always an invitation to evolve. So, take a moment to reflect: What changes are you navigating today? How can you embrace them with courage and intention? Remember, you’ve done hard things before, and you can do them again. Your journey isn’t just about surviving change—it’s about thriving through it.

Outgrowing Your Limits: Thriving Through Change and Failure

In the first episode of Thriving Changes, Amber Wishart shared her remarkable transformation from working as an independent stylist to owning a salon collective, a venture that empowers other stylists to gain independence in their careers. Throughout the interview, Amber's wisdom shed light on the importance of embracing the unknown, asking the right questions, and learning from failure.

In life and business, we’re constantly faced with challenges that push us out of our comfort zones. Whether it's venturing into a new career path, starting a business, or making a significant life change, uncertainty often looms large. The ability to embrace that uncertainty - and the inevitable stumbles that come with it - is crucial to long-term success.

In this article, we’ll explore key principles that will help you navigate the unknown, learn from failure, ask for what you need, and cultivate the resilience necessary to thrive through change.

Thriving through change begins with embracing a few essential principles.

1. Embrace the Unknown: The Power of Stepping into Uncertainty

This idea of being comfortable in the unknown is at the heart of growth. It’s natural to want to feel prepared, but often the greatest opportunities come when we step into situations where we don't have all the answers. Being comfortable with the unknown is a fundamental skill in both personal and professional development.

When we are paralyzed by the need to have everything figured out, we miss out on the opportunity to learn, evolve, and grow. Instead of seeing uncertainty as a barrier, shift your perspective and view it as a space of potential. Every unfamiliar situation is a chance to stretch your limits and discover new capabilities.

Practical Tips:

• Start before you’re ready: Stop waiting for the "perfect" moment. Begin the project, apply for the job, or make the change. You’ll learn much more by taking action than by waiting for every detail to fall into place.

• Be open to new experiences: Try activities or challenges that are outside of your usual routine. By regularly stepping into new territory, you'll become more comfortable with uncertainty and better able to handle the unknown.

• Reframe failure: See each setback not as an endpoint, but as part of the learning process. What you don’t know right now doesn’t define your potential - it simply highlights the areas where you have room to grow.

2. Asking for What You Want: Learning to Advocate for Yourself

One key to success in life is knowing how to advocate for yourself. Whether in a career, relationship, or personal goal, being able to ask for what you want is critical. Too often, people shy away from expressing their needs out of fear of rejection. But if you never ask, the answer is always "no."

The truth is, you won't always get what you want on the first try, and that's okay. A "no" doesn’t define your worth, nor should it be the end of your efforts. Instead, see it as a signpost directing you toward another path or a new approach. The key is to remain persistent, learn from the feedback, and adjust your approach.

Practical Tips:

• Practice asking: Start with smaller requests in your daily life to build your confidence. Whether it’s negotiating a price, asking for help, or requesting a favor, begin advocating for yourself in manageable ways.

• Handle rejection with resilience: When you hear “no,” take time to reflect. Why didn’t it work out? Was there something you could have done differently? Use this information to improve your strategy and try again.

• Be clear about what you want: Whether you’re negotiating at work or seeking support in a relationship, clarity is key. Be specific in your requests, and don’t be afraid to explain why it matters to you.

3. Learning From Your Stumbles: The Importance of Reflection and Resilience

We don’t have to be perfect to make progress. Many people are so afraid of stumbling that they don’t even begin. The truth is, failure is a natural part of any learning curve, and it’s crucial to embrace the imperfections along the way.

The most successful people in any field aren’t those who avoid failure but those who use it as a tool for growth. They reflect on their experiences, identify what went wrong, and make the necessary changes to pivot in a new direction.

Practical Tips:

• Create a reflection routine: Set aside time each week or month to reflect on your actions and decisions. What went well? What didn’t? This practice can help you identify patterns and learn from both successes and failures.

• Be kind to yourself: Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Rather than beating yourself up for failing, focus on what you can learn and how you can apply that knowledge moving forward.

Adjust and try again: Once you've reflected on your mistakes, make a plan to pivot. Whether it's tweaking your strategy, seeking additional help, or approaching the situation from a new angle, use your stumbles as stepping stones to success.

You don’t have to do it alone.

Reach out, ask for help.

4. Set Limits: Avoid Overcommitting and Burning Out

Ambition is essential to success but so is knowing your limits. It’s easy to take on too much in the pursuit of growth, but overcommitting can lead to burnout and hinder long-term success. It’s easy to overextend yourself when you’re passionate about what you do, but pushing too far too fast can lead to burnout, financial strain, or even failure.

The key is to balance ambition with practicality. Growing in a sustainable, strategic way allows you to build something lasting and meaningful without overwhelming yourself.

Practical Tips:

• Assess your bandwidth: Before taking on a new project or commitment, ask yourself if you have the time, energy, and resources to do it well. If the answer is no, either adjust your approach or say no altogether.

• Plan for growth: Have a long-term vision for where you want to be, but break that down into manageable, short-term goals. Focus on steady, incremental progress rather than trying to leap too far ahead.

• Know when to ask for help: When you feel overwhelmed, it's important to seek support. Surround yourself with a strong team or network that can help you carry the load when necessary.

5. Always Be Learning: The Importance of Curiosity and Asking Questions

Success is not a destination but a continuous journey of learning and growth. No matter how much you know or how far you've come, there is always more to discover. Asking questions not only helps you understand your field better, but it also opens doors to new opportunities and connections. Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something - instead, embrace that opportunity to learn.

Practical Tips:

• Adopt a learning mindset: Approach every situation with the mindset that there is always something new to learn. Be open to knowledge from unexpected sources.

• Seek mentors: Surround yourself with people who know more than you and can help you grow. Asking questions of those who have walked the path before you can fast-track your development.

• Be proactive: Don’t wait for knowledge to come to you. Seek out books, podcasts, courses, or industry events that will expose you to new ideas and practices.

6. Surround Yourself with the Right People: Building a Supportive Network

Success is not a solo journey. The people you surround yourself with have a profound impact on your growth. It’s crucial to build a network of individuals who inspire you, challenge you, and support your development. Whether it's mentors, colleagues, or friends, having the right people in your corner can make all the difference.

One of the most effective ways to learn and grow is by surrounding yourself with people who have already achieved what you're striving for. Their experiences, insights, and support can help guide you on your journey and provide valuable advice as you navigate your own challenges.

Practical Steps:

• Identify your tribe: Take stock of the people in your life. Are they supporting your growth, or holding you back? Seek out individuals who have achieved what you aspire to and invest in those relationships.

• Join professional networks: Whether it’s online communities, local meetups, or industry conferences, find spaces where you can connect with like-minded people who will help you grow.

• Be a resource to others: Don’t just focus on what others can give you; offer your own support and knowledge to those around you. Building reciprocal relationships strengthens your network and positions you as a valuable part of the community.

7. Trust the Process: Everything Leads You Somewhere

One of the most important lessons in personal growth is learning to trust the journey. Every experience, even the difficult ones, has value. The challenges you face and the mistakes you make all contribute to shaping who you are and where you're headed.

Instead of dwelling on setbacks or missed opportunities, focus on what you can learn from each experience. Trust that everything you go through is leading you toward where you're meant to be and stay patient with the process.

Practical Tips:

• Practice gratitude: Take time to reflect on your journey and recognize the value in every step, even the hard ones. Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right.

• Keep the big picture in mind: When you're faced with a challenge, remind yourself of your long-term goals. Each setback is just one piece of a larger puzzle, and staying focused on the bigger picture can help you keep going.

• Be patient with yourself: Growth takes time. Be kind and patient with yourself as you navigate new experiences and challenges. Remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.

Conclusion

To thrive in life and business, you must embrace uncertainty, learn from failure, and cultivate resilience. By stepping into the unknown, asking for what you want, reflecting on your stumbles, setting limits, continuously learning, building a supportive network, and trusting the process, you can overcome obstacles and grow in meaningful ways.

Amber’s story reminds us that thriving isn’t about avoiding change or failure—it’s about learning to pivot, persist, and embrace the growth that comes with every step.