Embrace and Own Your Strengths

Through the reflective and practical exercises and lessons in this course, you have been on a journey to discover your strengths and passions.  Now it is time to embrace these and really own your self-expression and share it with the people in your life, your communities and the world.

Reflection - What are your Commitments?

In your journal, take time to reflect on what it is you want to see in the world and what you are a stand for.  Is there something specific and tangible that you want to see in the world?  Is there something you want to see more of, or would it be something completely new?  Write down all the ideas and sentiments that come to you without judgement.  You, and only you, have these unique perspectives, and trust that there is a reason for why these ideas to come to you.

Visualization with Feeling - See and Feel Your Commitments to Fruition

Visualization is a powerful technique that can connect you to your commitments.  And to further the depth of the connection, it is helpful to not only visualize, but adding feelings and emotions to the experience.  Now that you have an idea of what you are committed to:

• Visualize that outcome in your mind
• Who is there with you?
• Who is thanking you?
• How are you celebrating?
• What feelings are you having?

Commit to visualizing this experience as much as you can and at least daily.  Repetition is key to establish this new habit.

Affirmations

In one powerful sentence, write down an affirmation that is aligned with your vision and commitment on a sticky-note, and post it where you can see it and read it many times a day.  Some placement ideas are: bathroom mirror, in your car, on your fridge.  Have fun with finding the spot that works the best for you!

Open Yourself to Receiving and Give from a Perpetually Full Cup

As women, we naturally come from a place where we are giving our time and energies to those around us.  We are very good at giving, and not so great at receiving.  However, giving and generosity is not a one-way street and if you do not open yourself to receive support and the generosity of others, there will be nothing to replenish your cup.

Because "doing it all" is like a habit for women, it will require conscious effort and actions to build the habit of receiving.  Here are some actions you can consider:

• Ask for help from others
• When someone thanks you for something - stop, pause and really take in the compliment before responding.  Don't brush it aside the compliment too quickly.
• Ask for a hug
• Have an open discussion with a loved one about what love "looks like" to you and make a request around it.  Reciprocate the exercise by asking the other person what love looks like to them.
• Ask someone to acknowledge you
• Learn your love and share about it with your loved ones and your network of support

Being open and receptive to the love and support of others is not something that is a "nice-to-have".  Love, support and acceptance are a basic human needs to grow and thrive, and it will take actions on our part to ensure our needs are met.  You can't give what you don't have, so please receive the love and contributions from the people in your life.

See the Light in Others

If you are taking this course, you have an inherent and fundamental commitment to contributing others and to having life work.  As you are on this journey and discovering your light, take the time to recognize and acknowledge the greatness you see in others around you.  In doing so, you are strengthening your magnetism and you will start attracting opportunities and abundance into your life.  Also, by creating comradery with the people you interact with, you are building relationships and strengthening your network.  AND let's not forget just how good it feels to give someone a genuine compliment!   Here are some possible ways to show your appreciation for another:

• Say thank you, and be specific!
• Gift an item that reminds you of a great shared experience
• Invite them to dinner at their favorite restaurant
• Spend time with them doing something they love to do
• Give them a big, genuine hug!

Gratitude and acknowledgments of others' commitments, strengths and light are life-giving and expansive actions.  If you open yourself to creating this habit, you will experience a deeper level of connection in your relationships.  This in turn will leave you empowered and energized for the things you are up to and for the life you want to create.  A full life is comprised of the relationships you have, and acknowledging the light in others will help you build this foundation.

Get Involved

Now that you have explored your passions and values, it's time to identify potential areas of impact where you can find purpose in life. Reflect on the causes and issues that resonate with you deeply. Consider the skills and talents you possess that could be used to make a difference in these areas.

Think about the communities you are a part of, whether it's your local neighborhood, workplace, or social circles. Where do you see opportunities to contribute positively and create meaningful change?

Additionally, consider the current challenges and problems in the world that you feel passionate about addressing. Is there a specific issue that motivates you to take action and work towards a solution?

By identifying potential areas of impact that align with your passions, values, and skills, you can begin to carve out a path towards purposeful living. Remember that purpose is often found at the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, and what the world needs.