Building Resilience and Growth Through Emotional Intelligence

When faced with life’s challenges, resilience is the key to not just surviving but thriving. In the latest episode of Thriving Changes, Susan Clarine, a Master Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach, shared insights into how emotional intelligence can help us navigate difficulties, redefine our identities, and create a fulfilling life. The lessons she shared go beyond personal anecdotes, offering actionable steps anyone can take to foster growth, self-awareness, and adaptability.

Here are the key takeaways from my conversation with Susan, combined with practical advice to help you implement these lessons in your own life.

Susan Clarine, Master Certified Emotional Intelligence Coach, The EI Coach

Emotional Intelligence: A Learnable Skill

Emotional intelligence isn’t innate—it’s a set of skills we can learn and develop. It starts with recognizing our habits and asking if they’re serving us well.

Too often, we assume that emotional intelligence (EQ) is a fixed trait, something we either have or don’t. However, Susan emphasizes that EQ is a learnable skill, and growth begins with self-awareness. Recognizing our emotional patterns, behaviors, and habits can help us identify areas that need improvement.

Practical Steps:

1. Start a Daily Reflection Practice: Take 5-10 minutes at the end of each day to jot down moments when you felt strong emotions. What triggered them? How did you respond? This simple habit builds awareness of emotional patterns over time.

2. Ask Yourself the Hard Questions: Regularly evaluate your habits. For example, ask, “Is my reaction to stress helping me solve the problem, or is it adding unnecessary tension?” Self-reflection can lead to intentional changes.

3. Practice Active Listening: Emotional intelligence also involves understanding others. Next time you’re in a conversation, focus fully on the speaker without preparing your response. This fosters empathy and builds stronger connections.

The Trap of Overemphasizing Results

As a young manager, Susan mentioned falling into the trap of thinking she had to have all the answers and focus solely on results. This mindset can lead to unnecessary stress, often without us even realizing it.

In our results-driven world, it’s easy to believe that we need to be perfect or always have the right answer. This pressure can create immense stress and hinder collaboration, creativity, and growth.

Practical Steps:

1. Adopt a Growth Mindset: Remind yourself that you don’t need to have all the answers. Frame mistakes as opportunities to learn, not failures.

2. Delegate and Collaborate: Trust your team or support network to share the load. Collaboration often leads to better outcomes and reduces unnecessary stress.

3. Celebrate Progress, Not Just Outcomes: Take time to acknowledge the small wins along the way instead of focusing solely on end results. This keeps motivation high and stress low.

Embracing Change and Letting Go of Expectations

Change, even from an emotional intelligence perspective, requires releasing our own expectations about ourselves and embracing the transformation of our identity over time.

Change is inevitable, yet many of us resist it because it challenges our sense of self. Susan’s advice highlights the importance of letting go of rigid expectations and allowing ourselves to evolve.

Practical Steps:

1. Redefine Success: Take a moment to write down what success means to you. Are your definitions based on outdated beliefs? Is it a possibility to adjust them to align with your current values and goals?

2. Visualize Your Future Self: Imagine who you want to become in the next five years. What qualities does that person have? What steps can you take today to embody those qualities?

3. Practice Mindfulness: Being present allows us to accept change without clinging to the past. Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath or observing your surroundings to ground yourself in the present.

The Power of Healthy Self-Doubt

Healthy self-doubt is essential for growth.

Healthy self-doubt is essential. It’s okay to feel uncomfortable or nervous about something new - those feelings are part of growth and don’t change overnight.

Many people see self-doubt as a weakness, but Susan reframes it as a necessary part of growth. When we step outside our comfort zones, self-doubt can act as a guide, signaling that we’re pushing our limits and evolving.

Practical Steps:

1. Reframe Nervousness as Excitement: When you feel nervous about a new challenge, tell yourself, “This is an opportunity to grow.” This mindset shift can transform anxiety into motivation.

2. Seek Support: Share your feelings with trusted friends or mentors. They can offer encouragement and remind you of your capabilities.

3. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge every step forward, no matter how small. This reinforces your progress and builds confidence over time.

Fulfillment Through Consistency

True fulfillment often lies in the consistency of our experiences rather than material rewards. Learning to embrace who we are in the present moment, without the pressure to know what’s next, can be incredibly freeing.

In our fast-paced world, we often chase external achievements, believing they’ll bring happiness. However, Susan reminds us that fulfillment comes from finding joy in the present and being consistent in our values and actions.

Practical Steps:

1. Practice Gratitude: Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. This shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s already abundant in your life.

2. Develop Daily Rituals: Simple routines, like a morning walk or evening meditation, create a sense of stability and fulfillment.

3. Release the Need for Certainty: Remind yourself that it’s okay not to have all the answers. Trust that clarity will come with time and experience.

The Balancing Act of Saying Yes and No

Saying yes to new opportunities often requires saying no to others, and that’s a balance worth mastering.

Life is full of opportunities, but not all of them align with our goals or values. Learning to say no is just as important as saying yes, allowing us to focus our energy on what truly matters.

Practical Steps:

1. Define Your Priorities: Write down your top three goals or values. Use them as a filter to decide which opportunities deserve a “yes.”

2. Practice Polite Declines: If saying no feels uncomfortable, rehearse responses like, “Thank you for thinking of me, but I’m focusing on other commitments right now.”

3. Schedule Time for Reflection: Regularly assess your commitments to ensure they align with your values and goals.

Unlearning to Grow

To welcome something new into our lives, we must be willing to unlearn the old. Letting go of outdated beliefs or habits is the first step to growth.

Growth often requires letting go of habits, beliefs, or routines that no longer serve us. Unlearning can be uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary part of creating space for new possibilities.

Practical Steps:

1. Identify Limiting Beliefs: Write down beliefs or habits that may be holding you back. For example, “I’m not good at public speaking.” Challenge these beliefs by seeking evidence to the contrary. Is it something that you can learn with practice and guidance?

2. Experiment with New Habits: Replace outdated habits with new ones. For instance, if you tend to avoid conflict, practice having open, honest conversations.

3. Celebrate Growth: Acknowledge the progress you’ve made by unlearning old patterns. This reinforces your commitment to continued growth.

Finding Contentment in the Present

Trust that you are where you’re supposed to be right now. Find the good in the present.

 Happiness comes from being content and knowing we are exactly where we’re supposed to be. When we achieve that sense of fulfillment, it feels as though we’ve gained the world.

True happiness isn’t about external achievements but about embracing the present moment. Finding contentment in where you are allows you to live fully and authentically.

Practical Steps:

1. Focus on the Now: Practice mindfulness exercises to stay present, such as focusing on your breath or observing your surroundings.

2. Limit Comparisons: Social media and societal pressures can lead to unhealthy comparisons. Remind yourself that your journey is unique.

3. Cultivate Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially during challenging times. This fosters inner peace and contentment.

Final Thoughts

These insights into emotional intelligence and resilience remind us that growth is a lifelong journey. By embracing change, letting go of outdated habits, and finding fulfillment in the present, we can build the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges. The key is to take small, intentional steps every day - and trust that each step is leading us closer to becoming our best selves.

Thriving Through Adversity: Lessons from Tina Kadolph on Building Strength, Compassion, and Connection

Life is unpredictable. Sometimes, it throws us into a whirlwind of adversity that can feel insurmountable. But even in those moments, there lies an opportunity to rise above the challenges and create something meaningful. In a recent episode of the Thriving Changes podcast, Tina Kadolph, Co-founder and President of Love Missions Global, shared powerful lessons about resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of human connection. Her words carry universal truths that inspire us to reframe our struggles and take actionable steps toward growth, healing, and making a difference in the world.

Here are the core insights from Tina’s interview, expanded with practical steps and a reflection question to help you embrace these lessons and apply them in your own life.

Tina Kadolph,Co-founder and President of Love Missions Global

Family Is the Foundation of Thriving Individuals

Tina emphasized the importance of our “little village” of family - the people who teach us love, connection, and belonging. While not everyone grows up in a traditional or supportive family, we all have the opportunity to nurture meaningful relationships that serve as our foundation.

Practical Steps:

• Build Your Village: If your biological family is not supportive, create your own “family” of trusted friends, mentors, and community members. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you.

• Prioritize Quality Time: Dedicate intentional time to connect with loved ones. Whether it’s a weekly phone call, a family dinner, or simply sending a heartfelt message, these small moments nurture deep bonds.

• Practice Active Listening: Show empathy and attentiveness in your conversations. Often, the most profound way to support someone is to truly hear them.

• Be Vulnerable: Share your struggles and joys with those close to you. Vulnerability fosters trust and strengthens relationships.

Reflection:

Who are the people in your life that make you feel seen, loved, and supported? How can you invest more in those relationships?

Your Past Does Not Define You

Tina’s journey - overcoming trauma and using it to fuel her mission against modern-day slavery - is a testament to the idea that our past does not determine our future. Instead, trauma can build a strength within us that is often unimaginable.

Practical Steps:

• Reframe Your Story: Reflect on your experiences and ask yourself: What have these challenges taught me? How have they shaped the person I am today?

• Seek Professional Support: Healing from trauma often requires guidance. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can provide tools to process your pain and move forward.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Every step toward healing, no matter how small, is a victory. Acknowledge your progress and be kind to yourself.

• Focus on Your Strengths: Write down qualities you’ve developed through adversity, such as resilience, empathy, or determination. Use these strengths as building blocks for your future.

Reflection:

What would your life look like if you stopped letting your past define you and started using it as fuel for growth?

Choose to Use Your Pain as Fuel for Good

Tina shared the profound truth that we have a choice: we can stay stuck in the pain of our past or use it as motivation to create positive change. Making this choice is not easy - it takes immense courage and strength - but it is possible.

Practical Steps:

• Identify Your “Why”: What causes or issues resonate with you? How can your experiences contribute to making a difference?

• Start Small: Big changes often start with small actions. Volunteer for a local cause, mentor someone, or simply reach out to someone in need.

• Practice Gratitude: Focus on the things you’re grateful for, even in the midst of hardship. Gratitude shifts your mindset and opens the door to possibility.

• Take One Step at a Time: The path to transformation can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to have it all figured out. Just take the next right step.

Reflection:

What is a one small step you can take today to turn your pain into purpose?

Extend Compassion to Others

Extend compassion to others.

Tina reminded us of the power of compassion. When you see someone in a desperate situation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Even if they’re afraid or unable to share their story immediately, your kindness could open the door to resources and healing.

Practical Steps:

• Pay Attention: Look for subtle signs that someone might be struggling. Often, a kind word or simple gesture can make a world of difference.

• Offer Without Judgment: Avoid making assumptions about someone’s situation. Instead, approach with empathy and an open heart.

• Learn About Resources: Familiarize yourself with local organizations or hotlines that can provide assistance. Being informed allows you to offer meaningful help when needed.

• Be Persistent, But Respectful: If someone isn’t ready to accept help, let them know you’re there for them whenever they are.

Reflection:

Who in your life might be struggling in silence? How can you show them compassion and support?

Don’t Give Up: You Are Stronger Than You Think

The journey of healing and growth is hard. There will be moments when you want to give up, but Tina’s message is clear: You are stronger than you think. Even in the darkest times, you have the resilience to overcome.

Practical Steps:

• Break It Down: When the road ahead feels overwhelming, focus on one day, one hour, or even one minute at a time. Small, consistent efforts lead to big changes.

• Find Inspiration: Surround yourself with stories, books, and people who inspire you to keep going. Let their journeys remind you of what’s possible.

• Practice Self-Care: Prioritize rest, nutrition, movement, and activities that bring you joy. These small acts of care replenish your strength.

• Lean on Others: When you feel like giving up, reach out to your support network. Let others remind you of your resilience and worth.

Reflection:

What keeps you going when life feels unbearable? How can you cultivate more of that strength?

Rest and Recovery Are Crucial

We are often our own harshest critics, replaying what we could have done differently. But rest and recovery are just as crucial as taking action. They build the strength we need to face challenges and do meaningful work.

Practical Steps:

• Schedule Rest: Block out time for rest and relaxation in your calendar. Treat it as an essential part of your routine, not an afterthought.

• Practice Mindfulness: Use practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling to calm your mind and recharge your spirit.

• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that drain your energy or take away from your ability to rest.

• Celebrate Rest: Remind yourself that rest is productive. It’s not a sign of weakness but a vital part of thriving.

Reflection:

How can you create more space for rest and recovery in your life, without guilt or judgment?

Final Thoughts

Tina Kadolph’s words serve as a powerful reminder that resilience, compassion, and connection can transform even the most difficult circumstances into opportunities for growth and impact. Whether you’re healing from your past, reaching out to someone in need, or simply trying to find strength to keep going, remember: You are not alone, and you are capable of incredible things.

The journey may be hard, but it is also worth it. Lean into your “little village,” turn your pain into purpose, and don’t forget to rest along the way. Together, we can create a world where compassion and connection thrive, even in the face of adversity.

So, what’s your next step? The choice is yours.

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.