Yesterday, I went to a Memorial Day parade and ceremony in my town. I was really impressed with what the mayor had to say. In it, she talked of how our country has become very pessimistic. Of how we seem to be focused on what is falling apart, often to the point of overlooking what we have to be grateful for. She encouraged everyone to spend some time thinking of all the wonderful things we have to be grateful for as individuals, as a community and as a nation.
As I was walking away, I realized how important her words were for me. Just like everyone else, I have bigger dreams that have yet to manifest. I was struggling with feelings of frustration and fear last week. Yet, when I look over recent events, I can name at least five separate occasions that were clearly "God winks" or moments when God clearly was supporting me on my life path. It reminded me to watch for the small examples of Divine support. I think God sends those to remind us that he's still with us. It just takes a little longer for the bigger things to come forth sometimes.
And about the state of our nation, I encourage everyone to look for things that are going well. While none of us relish higher gas prices or the effects these have on our family budget, there are still blessings to be found in the situation. One blessing is the effect on our environment. Despite warnings of the dire effects of fossil fuels on the planet, the problem has grown in scope. It often seems the only way to get significant change in our lifestyles is to hit our wallet...this is already leading to an increase in fuel efficient cars and changing driving habits.
I am not diminishing the negative effects this is having on many. I have friends who are selling their home as a result of high gas prices and how it is impacting their business. I know many are truly struggling right now. My heart goes out to them all. I do feel though that turning our thoughts to the gifts we do have will help draw more “God winks” into this time of change. Living in a state of fear won’t change the situation in a positive way. Have faith and ask for God’s help. I know that is what I’m going to do.
Blessings to everyone!
Nancy
http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com
http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Friday, May 2, 2008
What If...Tips to Overcome Your Fears
I'm sure you've all been hearing the news lately. The talk of rising gas and food prices is making even those in stable financial situations feel jittery. Many of the clients I've worked with are struggling to make ends meet and worried about what is going to happen if their business doesn't pick up. "What if" is a common thought for many people these days.
Since I am the Queen of "What if," I've had to develop some effective coping techniques. After all, getting my sympathetic nervous system over-aroused which floods my body with stress hormones doesn't lead to very effective problem solving! Here are a few tips to help you if you are feeling the strain:
1. Ask yourself if your worrisome thought is true: I love the method that Byron Katie recommends in her books. She says to ask yourself the following questions:
Is it true?
Can I absolutely know that it's true?
How do I react when I think this thought?
Who or what would I be without the thought?
Then, turn the thought around, and find three genuine examples of how each turnaround is as true as or truer than the original statement.
This process can help you get a clearer picture of your true situation, so that you aren’t reacting to “what ifs” but are dealing with what is actually happening in the moment.
2. Be practical: Are you truly short on cash? Then come up with a two part plan to get yourself in a better situation.
Part One: Reduce your expenses by taking a hard look at exactly where your money is going and then deciding what is essential and what you can live without for right now. Some areas where you might be able to cut back are: cable TV, eating out, beauty salon, cell phone extras (internet, texting), entertainment expenses, or groceries. If you look carefully, you’ll probably be able to find one or two areas where you can “trim the fat.”
Part Two: Increase your income. Look around for a part-time job or if you are self-employed explore options for offering your services at more affordable prices by creating products or group options. Your clients are also feeling the strain of rising costs, so find a way to offer them your valuable service at a less expensive rate, while still meeting your own financial obligations.
3. Count your blessings: Keep a running log of all the things that you do have. Don’t forget to include your health. Remember, keeping self-care on the top of your list is essential for dealing with challenging times. After all, when you don’t feel well, you really aren’t able to handle problems effectively. If you need some help with this, check out my 4 Week to a Self-Care Lifestyle Workbook now available at my websites (Cost: $14.50): http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/Coaching_Products.html
4. Manage Stress: When you find yourself obsessing over your worries, use the SOS for Stress Meditation to help yourself return to a state of peace. By turning your attention back to your body, you will calm your thoughts so that you can deal with things more effectively. The simplified version of this meditation is four steps: STOP whatever you are doing or thinking about, BREATHE in for a count of 4, hold for a count of 4, out for a count of 6 through the mouth, and hold for 4, RELAX your muscles beginning at your feet and moving up to the top of your head, and LET GO with each exhale all of your fears while imagining your guardian angels clearing your whole system of stress. To purchase the download audio version (MP3) of this meditation along with two reference guides for this technique, visit this link: http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/Coaching_Products.html
5. Have Faith: Have faith, not only in a higher power, but also in yourself. You have the tools you need to take care of yourself. You will be your own best friend and make sure your needs are met. You can do it! I find the following affirmation helpful with this: “I have absolute faith in myself and I have absolute faith in God. I am safe and all is well.”
Hang in there! Things will get better (and are probably much better than you think!). If you need some one on one coaching help, send me an email or call for a free consultation to learn more about how my coaching services can support you: Nancy@crossroadscoachingonline.com or (330) 416-6184 or join me for this month’s group coaching call on 5/21/2008 (no technological expertise necessary...you just need a phone!). The cost is $15 or free for members of the Empowering Lightworkers e-club. To register, send me an email.
Have a great day!
Since I am the Queen of "What if," I've had to develop some effective coping techniques. After all, getting my sympathetic nervous system over-aroused which floods my body with stress hormones doesn't lead to very effective problem solving! Here are a few tips to help you if you are feeling the strain:
1. Ask yourself if your worrisome thought is true: I love the method that Byron Katie recommends in her books. She says to ask yourself the following questions:
Is it true?
Can I absolutely know that it's true?
How do I react when I think this thought?
Who or what would I be without the thought?
Then, turn the thought around, and find three genuine examples of how each turnaround is as true as or truer than the original statement.
This process can help you get a clearer picture of your true situation, so that you aren’t reacting to “what ifs” but are dealing with what is actually happening in the moment.
2. Be practical: Are you truly short on cash? Then come up with a two part plan to get yourself in a better situation.
Part One: Reduce your expenses by taking a hard look at exactly where your money is going and then deciding what is essential and what you can live without for right now. Some areas where you might be able to cut back are: cable TV, eating out, beauty salon, cell phone extras (internet, texting), entertainment expenses, or groceries. If you look carefully, you’ll probably be able to find one or two areas where you can “trim the fat.”
Part Two: Increase your income. Look around for a part-time job or if you are self-employed explore options for offering your services at more affordable prices by creating products or group options. Your clients are also feeling the strain of rising costs, so find a way to offer them your valuable service at a less expensive rate, while still meeting your own financial obligations.
3. Count your blessings: Keep a running log of all the things that you do have. Don’t forget to include your health. Remember, keeping self-care on the top of your list is essential for dealing with challenging times. After all, when you don’t feel well, you really aren’t able to handle problems effectively. If you need some help with this, check out my 4 Week to a Self-Care Lifestyle Workbook now available at my websites (Cost: $14.50): http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/Coaching_Products.html
4. Manage Stress: When you find yourself obsessing over your worries, use the SOS for Stress Meditation to help yourself return to a state of peace. By turning your attention back to your body, you will calm your thoughts so that you can deal with things more effectively. The simplified version of this meditation is four steps: STOP whatever you are doing or thinking about, BREATHE in for a count of 4, hold for a count of 4, out for a count of 6 through the mouth, and hold for 4, RELAX your muscles beginning at your feet and moving up to the top of your head, and LET GO with each exhale all of your fears while imagining your guardian angels clearing your whole system of stress. To purchase the download audio version (MP3) of this meditation along with two reference guides for this technique, visit this link: http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/Coaching_Products.html
5. Have Faith: Have faith, not only in a higher power, but also in yourself. You have the tools you need to take care of yourself. You will be your own best friend and make sure your needs are met. You can do it! I find the following affirmation helpful with this: “I have absolute faith in myself and I have absolute faith in God. I am safe and all is well.”
Hang in there! Things will get better (and are probably much better than you think!). If you need some one on one coaching help, send me an email or call for a free consultation to learn more about how my coaching services can support you: Nancy@crossroadscoachingonline.com or (330) 416-6184 or join me for this month’s group coaching call on 5/21/2008 (no technological expertise necessary...you just need a phone!). The cost is $15 or free for members of the Empowering Lightworkers e-club. To register, send me an email.
Have a great day!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Getting Started with Internet Marketing
I’ve been getting a lot of questions lately from small business owners who are struggling to build a client base. This isn’t easy for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for those in holistic fields. Below are a few tips to help you get started using the internet as a marketing tool:
Purchase a domain and create a website
I used a program called Website Tonight through Godaddy.com to create my websites. The program is inexpensive (about $5/month for a five page site), includes hosting, and doesn’t require any Html experience. You can also purchase a domain name (name for your website) through Godaddy and get a starter page for free. To learn more, visit http://www.godaddy.com.
List Your Business For Free
Most of the major search engines offer yellow pages, map services, and free local listings. Getting your business listed on these directories will help it get listed higher on a search. Most of these listings include a lot of information about your business and services. (FYI...When you join my Empowering Lightworkers e-club you can get a free gift "Five Free Ways to Be Found On An Internet Search" which includes the links for this tip. Visit http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/eClub.html to learn more).
Social Networking
Another good way to get your website found is to participate in social networking with your target market. Yahoo and Google both offer a variety of groups you can join for free. About.com provides opportunities to discuss topics through forums. There are lots of other professional and social networking websites you can join, many of which will allow you to create a detailed profile for free. Facebook and Beliefnet are two examples of sites that offer this option. Try doing a search on your subject of interest and see what types of groups come up.
Google Adwords
This approach isn’t free, but I have found it to be effective. You can set the limit for the amount you are comfortable spending. You also can monitor your ad(s) to see how effective your ad and keywords are and adjust accordingly. To learn more, check out this link: https://adwords.google.com/select/Login?sourceid=awo&subid=us-en-et-bizsol-0-finderB-all&medium=link&hl=en_US .
Give me a call if you'd like some coaching support with this or consider joining the e-club where you can network with other Lightworkers and share about your business with the yahoo groups audience.
Take care!
Nancy
Nancy@empoweringlightworkers.com
(330) 416-6184
http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com
http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com
http://www.sanctuaryatcrossroads.com
Purchase a domain and create a website
I used a program called Website Tonight through Godaddy.com to create my websites. The program is inexpensive (about $5/month for a five page site), includes hosting, and doesn’t require any Html experience. You can also purchase a domain name (name for your website) through Godaddy and get a starter page for free. To learn more, visit http://www.godaddy.com.
List Your Business For Free
Most of the major search engines offer yellow pages, map services, and free local listings. Getting your business listed on these directories will help it get listed higher on a search. Most of these listings include a lot of information about your business and services. (FYI...When you join my Empowering Lightworkers e-club you can get a free gift "Five Free Ways to Be Found On An Internet Search" which includes the links for this tip. Visit http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/eClub.html to learn more).
Social Networking
Another good way to get your website found is to participate in social networking with your target market. Yahoo and Google both offer a variety of groups you can join for free. About.com provides opportunities to discuss topics through forums. There are lots of other professional and social networking websites you can join, many of which will allow you to create a detailed profile for free. Facebook and Beliefnet are two examples of sites that offer this option. Try doing a search on your subject of interest and see what types of groups come up.
Google Adwords
This approach isn’t free, but I have found it to be effective. You can set the limit for the amount you are comfortable spending. You also can monitor your ad(s) to see how effective your ad and keywords are and adjust accordingly. To learn more, check out this link: https://adwords.google.com/select/Login?sourceid=awo&subid=us-en-et-bizsol-0-finderB-all&medium=link&hl=en_US .
Give me a call if you'd like some coaching support with this or consider joining the e-club where you can network with other Lightworkers and share about your business with the yahoo groups audience.
Take care!
Nancy
Nancy@empoweringlightworkers.com
(330) 416-6184
http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com
http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com
http://www.sanctuaryatcrossroads.com
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Coping with High Sensitivity
Hello!
I thought I'd share a posting from my Empowering Lightworkers e-club group today. I hope you find it helpful! If you'd like to join in on the discussion and participate in the free coaching call, we'd be happy to have you! To learn more about the e-club or to sign up, visit http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/eClub.html .
Nurture Yourself Wednesday
Good Morning!
Today is the day to share about self-care. I've had a lot of calls lately from people who are struggling with the "side effects" of being highly sensitive and intuitively gifted. If you are sensitive and find that you are feeling emotional, anxious, exhausted or generally out of balance, there are things you can do to take care of yourself.
Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D. wrote a national bestseller called The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You. In it she discusses the fact that some people simply have a more highly developed nervous system than others which makes them more sensitive to stimulus in the outer world. This brings many gifts, often leading to intuitive abilities and greater understanding and compassion for others, but it also brings some debilitating side effects.
As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) myself, I learned the hard way about how to be sensitive and still take care of my own needs. A year ago, I met an amazing man named Gary Peterson. Gary works with people to help them "settle" their nervous systems. He explains that our sympathetic nervous system gets triggered by others or outer circumstances and since our modern society does not often allow for "fight or flight" nervous system trauma ensues. He has a CD available and is currently working on a book on this topic. He also provides bio-cranial therapy and other classes on settling at the Star Instititute which has offices in Ohio and Colorado. For more information on settling visit Gary's website at http://www.starinstitute.us.
I've also created an audio meditation that I use to settle my own nervous system. It's really made a huge difference for me in being able to stay centered in my own system and to avoid overarousal of my sympathetic nervous system. To read more or to purchase this product, visit my Crossroads Coaching website: http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com/LC.html .
There are several other things you can do to help you stay centered in your own systems and to minimize the side effects of being an HSP. If you are having trouble with this, I'd be happy to work with you privately or consider joining me for the free coaching call on 4/20.
Are you highly sensitive? Have you encountered difficulties as a result of this sensitivity? What methods have you found helpful to cope with this trait?
Please feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions!
I hope everyone has a wonderful day!
Take care,
Nancy
I thought I'd share a posting from my Empowering Lightworkers e-club group today. I hope you find it helpful! If you'd like to join in on the discussion and participate in the free coaching call, we'd be happy to have you! To learn more about the e-club or to sign up, visit http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/eClub.html .
Nurture Yourself Wednesday
Good Morning!
Today is the day to share about self-care. I've had a lot of calls lately from people who are struggling with the "side effects" of being highly sensitive and intuitively gifted. If you are sensitive and find that you are feeling emotional, anxious, exhausted or generally out of balance, there are things you can do to take care of yourself.
Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D. wrote a national bestseller called The Highly Sensitive Person: How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You. In it she discusses the fact that some people simply have a more highly developed nervous system than others which makes them more sensitive to stimulus in the outer world. This brings many gifts, often leading to intuitive abilities and greater understanding and compassion for others, but it also brings some debilitating side effects.
As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) myself, I learned the hard way about how to be sensitive and still take care of my own needs. A year ago, I met an amazing man named Gary Peterson. Gary works with people to help them "settle" their nervous systems. He explains that our sympathetic nervous system gets triggered by others or outer circumstances and since our modern society does not often allow for "fight or flight" nervous system trauma ensues. He has a CD available and is currently working on a book on this topic. He also provides bio-cranial therapy and other classes on settling at the Star Instititute which has offices in Ohio and Colorado. For more information on settling visit Gary's website at http://www.starinstitute.us.
I've also created an audio meditation that I use to settle my own nervous system. It's really made a huge difference for me in being able to stay centered in my own system and to avoid overarousal of my sympathetic nervous system. To read more or to purchase this product, visit my Crossroads Coaching website: http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com/LC.html .
There are several other things you can do to help you stay centered in your own systems and to minimize the side effects of being an HSP. If you are having trouble with this, I'd be happy to work with you privately or consider joining me for the free coaching call on 4/20.
Are you highly sensitive? Have you encountered difficulties as a result of this sensitivity? What methods have you found helpful to cope with this trait?
Please feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions!
I hope everyone has a wonderful day!
Take care,
Nancy
Monday, March 31, 2008
Coming Home to the Self: From Awakening to Wholeness
3/31/2008
Greetings!
This is an article I recently had published in the Journey Magazine. I thought you might enjoy it too!
“In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond; And like seeds dreaming beneath the snow your heart dreams of spring. Trust the dreams, for in them is hidden the gate to eternity.” Kahlil Gabran, The Prophet
Recently, someone asked me what I meant when I said I’d gone through a Spiritual Awakening. As I looked back and remembered all that happened during that time of my life, I was awed to see all the evidence of God’s hand working directly to shape my life path.
My experience began when I stated to a friend that I wanted God to be more central in my life. Within three months, my entire life had changed. My marriage ended and I found myself a single mother on my own. During this crisis in my life, my Spiritual Awakening occurred.
The first moment of this new awareness came while sitting and looking out the window. I can still feel the loving energy rolling over me and the intense green outside my window. It was an amazingly blissful experience and from that point on I was suddenly more aware of everything. I could feel other people’s emotions and physical symptoms. I knew when someone was thinking of me and if they were going to call.
I saw signs everywhere. A red fox came up to me in the Maine woods and stayed with me for half an hour. Hawks flew so close I could have reached up and touched them. Butterflies landed on me. Hummingbirds hovered so near to me that I could see their hearts beating. Nature was speaking to me and nurturing me. I spent hours in the woods, immersing myself in nature… sliding down muddy hills, walking barefoot through streams, gazing at the leaves above and getting lost in the blue of the sky.
Spirit guided me. People came out of the woodwork in the most unexpected places to hand me a book or give me a message which provided the answer I was seeking. I saw the full moon every month for a year, consistently being woken out of a dead sleep in the middle of the night, even when cloudy, to experience it shining down on me. I filled thirteen journals with all the insights and amazing coincidences that kept happening to me at every turn.
I had moments of indescribable bliss…when I felt so connected to everyone and everything and knew that all I had to do was love and that I was free and safe! I also had times when I fell back out of this awareness and experienced great pain and the fear of separation. The disorientation was intense as I moved between my two realities and tried to survive the death of one life and the birth of another.
This spring will mark eight years since my Spiritual Awakening. Since then I have traveled far in my understanding of myself and of the world of Spirit. I’ve learned about my soul and come back home to myself. I’ve discovered that my body isn’t a place to leave but instead of source of safety and wisdom not available from any other source. I’ve learned how to hear God and my spiritual family so clearly that it is as if they are sitting beside me (or within me). I’ve been shown visions and metaphors that speak of the Divine Spirit within all of us. I’ve learned how to put my own needs first and to honor the truth of who I am instead of trying to be someone I’m not.
I’ve also learned that this journey is not without struggle. I had to travel to uncover the depths of my soul, learn that which is mine to share, and then bring it back to the world of the flesh. It is truly a “Hero’s Journey” filled with dragons to slay, moats to swim, and fair maidens to rescue (all of which turned out to be aspects of myself). And then I came home only to begin the struggle to share the wisdom I’d entered this lifetime to teach.
Having walked this path without a manual or map, I offer you a few bits of wisdom to smooth the path of your journey within and back home.
Our bodies are instruments tuned to the Divine. Listen to it, feel it. If it feels unwell or afraid, then STOP. Honor what you are experiencing. When the body feels peace, move forward. When it feels fear, stop and listen. Always chose to honor what it tells you. Never “override” its inherent wisdom.
Ask for help. Ask God, ask the angels, ask your loved ones, ask Lightworkers who offer their gifts to ease your passage. Then watch for the answers to your prayers…in books, music, a passing comment, a doe in a quiet forest, a windswept field…these are all messages for you…listen to them.
Love! Remember this: It is not in receiving that we find joy and safety, it is in loving. Maintain your boundaries with others in the outer world, but love unconditionally within. Love yourself unconditionally as well. Loving brings joy and the choice to love is always in your hands. No one can take away from you the ability to love, and in remembering that you will always be free.
Have faith, not only in God but in yourself. Each time you chose to honor your truth, to put your needs first and refuse to sacrifice them for any reason, you build a resource within that can’t be shaken. When you can trust yourself to take care of YOU, you will find a peace unlike anything you’ve experienced…and in that space you will know without any doubt that Spirit is guiding you and that you are never alone.
May your journey be blessed with amazing wonders and profound peace!
Greetings!
This is an article I recently had published in the Journey Magazine. I thought you might enjoy it too!
“In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond; And like seeds dreaming beneath the snow your heart dreams of spring. Trust the dreams, for in them is hidden the gate to eternity.” Kahlil Gabran, The Prophet
Recently, someone asked me what I meant when I said I’d gone through a Spiritual Awakening. As I looked back and remembered all that happened during that time of my life, I was awed to see all the evidence of God’s hand working directly to shape my life path.
My experience began when I stated to a friend that I wanted God to be more central in my life. Within three months, my entire life had changed. My marriage ended and I found myself a single mother on my own. During this crisis in my life, my Spiritual Awakening occurred.
The first moment of this new awareness came while sitting and looking out the window. I can still feel the loving energy rolling over me and the intense green outside my window. It was an amazingly blissful experience and from that point on I was suddenly more aware of everything. I could feel other people’s emotions and physical symptoms. I knew when someone was thinking of me and if they were going to call.
I saw signs everywhere. A red fox came up to me in the Maine woods and stayed with me for half an hour. Hawks flew so close I could have reached up and touched them. Butterflies landed on me. Hummingbirds hovered so near to me that I could see their hearts beating. Nature was speaking to me and nurturing me. I spent hours in the woods, immersing myself in nature… sliding down muddy hills, walking barefoot through streams, gazing at the leaves above and getting lost in the blue of the sky.
Spirit guided me. People came out of the woodwork in the most unexpected places to hand me a book or give me a message which provided the answer I was seeking. I saw the full moon every month for a year, consistently being woken out of a dead sleep in the middle of the night, even when cloudy, to experience it shining down on me. I filled thirteen journals with all the insights and amazing coincidences that kept happening to me at every turn.
I had moments of indescribable bliss…when I felt so connected to everyone and everything and knew that all I had to do was love and that I was free and safe! I also had times when I fell back out of this awareness and experienced great pain and the fear of separation. The disorientation was intense as I moved between my two realities and tried to survive the death of one life and the birth of another.
This spring will mark eight years since my Spiritual Awakening. Since then I have traveled far in my understanding of myself and of the world of Spirit. I’ve learned about my soul and come back home to myself. I’ve discovered that my body isn’t a place to leave but instead of source of safety and wisdom not available from any other source. I’ve learned how to hear God and my spiritual family so clearly that it is as if they are sitting beside me (or within me). I’ve been shown visions and metaphors that speak of the Divine Spirit within all of us. I’ve learned how to put my own needs first and to honor the truth of who I am instead of trying to be someone I’m not.
I’ve also learned that this journey is not without struggle. I had to travel to uncover the depths of my soul, learn that which is mine to share, and then bring it back to the world of the flesh. It is truly a “Hero’s Journey” filled with dragons to slay, moats to swim, and fair maidens to rescue (all of which turned out to be aspects of myself). And then I came home only to begin the struggle to share the wisdom I’d entered this lifetime to teach.
Having walked this path without a manual or map, I offer you a few bits of wisdom to smooth the path of your journey within and back home.
Our bodies are instruments tuned to the Divine. Listen to it, feel it. If it feels unwell or afraid, then STOP. Honor what you are experiencing. When the body feels peace, move forward. When it feels fear, stop and listen. Always chose to honor what it tells you. Never “override” its inherent wisdom.
Ask for help. Ask God, ask the angels, ask your loved ones, ask Lightworkers who offer their gifts to ease your passage. Then watch for the answers to your prayers…in books, music, a passing comment, a doe in a quiet forest, a windswept field…these are all messages for you…listen to them.
Love! Remember this: It is not in receiving that we find joy and safety, it is in loving. Maintain your boundaries with others in the outer world, but love unconditionally within. Love yourself unconditionally as well. Loving brings joy and the choice to love is always in your hands. No one can take away from you the ability to love, and in remembering that you will always be free.
Have faith, not only in God but in yourself. Each time you chose to honor your truth, to put your needs first and refuse to sacrifice them for any reason, you build a resource within that can’t be shaken. When you can trust yourself to take care of YOU, you will find a peace unlike anything you’ve experienced…and in that space you will know without any doubt that Spirit is guiding you and that you are never alone.
May your journey be blessed with amazing wonders and profound peace!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Overcoming Financial Stress
Are you worried about your financial security? Forecasts for a slumping economy can be especially difficult for those of us in the healing arts. Often our services, while very much needed, are seen as luxuries and can be the first thing to be cut out of the budget when money gets tight.
So what can you do to stay financially secure through these fluctuations?
Below are a few coaching tips to help you navigate a difficult economic climate:
1. Tighten your belt: Are there areas in your own budget where you could cut back? I read The Automatic Millionaire by Financial guru, David Bach where he talked about the "Latte Factor." He explained how cutting out something as simple as a daily cup of gourmet coffee adds up to a lot of money quickly. He recommends looking for a way you can save even $5 a day. Just think about it...$5 a day adds up to $150 a month! I've used his strategies and they really work. Here's a link to his books at my Amazon store: http://astore.amazon.com/sanctuary0a-20?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=5.
2. Be Creative About How You Offer Your Services: Spend some time thinking about what you offer as a Lightworker. Is there a way that you could offer your services in a group setting? Can you create an informational product to sell from your website? What about offering a class or workshop? Are there supplemental products you use in your practice that you could sell? Try to find some ways to offer your healing gifts and still make your hourly fee, while making it less expensive for your clients to participate. After all, they are feeling the financial stress too which means they need your healing gifts more, not less. Create an option that is a win win situation for you both!
3. Supplement Your Income: As you are building your practice or business, it may (and often is) necessary to have a secondary source of income. What are your skills and education? Are there other things you can do temporarily to fill the financial gap? Easing the financial stress will make it easier to draw new clients to you. Remember we all communicate at a subconscious level and if you are desperate for clients, this will be picked up by the people who you want to hire you. When you are relaxed, it will be much easier for the love of what you do to shine through to those you are trying to attract.
4. Make a Plan: What is your plan for expanding your business? Have you developed strategies to incorporate multiple streams of income? Do you have a mailing list to share your new services with? How will you let people know about what you have to offer? Create a business plan to map out how you will market and incorporate additional means of earning income. Moving beyond earning income only through working with one on one clients is the best way to develop a strong financial base that won't be subjected to the ups and downs of the finanical climate. Start making a plan how you will create this new type of business today.
5. Have Faith: This last step is often the hardest for all of us. Try to remember that even when it seems like no one needs what you have to offer, that God gave you your unique gifts for a reason. I promise you that someone out there is praying for help only you can provide right now. Believe that your special abilities are here as part of your Divine Purpose, which means God must have a plan for how the people who need your gifts are going to find you. Hang in there...the one thing you can count on in life is change, so if you are in a down swing, an upswing must be on the way!
Take care!
Nancy
PS. I'm taking my own advice...check out my new Empowering Lightworkers eClub where you can experience the benefits of my coaching services, network with other Lightworkers, and get discounts on private sessions and classes with me~all for only $10/month! Plus, as a special bonus for helping me launch this new project, the first month is free. To learn more or to join us, click on this link: http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/eClub.html.
So what can you do to stay financially secure through these fluctuations?
Below are a few coaching tips to help you navigate a difficult economic climate:
1. Tighten your belt: Are there areas in your own budget where you could cut back? I read The Automatic Millionaire by Financial guru, David Bach where he talked about the "Latte Factor." He explained how cutting out something as simple as a daily cup of gourmet coffee adds up to a lot of money quickly. He recommends looking for a way you can save even $5 a day. Just think about it...$5 a day adds up to $150 a month! I've used his strategies and they really work. Here's a link to his books at my Amazon store: http://astore.amazon.com/sanctuary0a-20?%5Fencoding=UTF8&node=5.
2. Be Creative About How You Offer Your Services: Spend some time thinking about what you offer as a Lightworker. Is there a way that you could offer your services in a group setting? Can you create an informational product to sell from your website? What about offering a class or workshop? Are there supplemental products you use in your practice that you could sell? Try to find some ways to offer your healing gifts and still make your hourly fee, while making it less expensive for your clients to participate. After all, they are feeling the financial stress too which means they need your healing gifts more, not less. Create an option that is a win win situation for you both!
3. Supplement Your Income: As you are building your practice or business, it may (and often is) necessary to have a secondary source of income. What are your skills and education? Are there other things you can do temporarily to fill the financial gap? Easing the financial stress will make it easier to draw new clients to you. Remember we all communicate at a subconscious level and if you are desperate for clients, this will be picked up by the people who you want to hire you. When you are relaxed, it will be much easier for the love of what you do to shine through to those you are trying to attract.
4. Make a Plan: What is your plan for expanding your business? Have you developed strategies to incorporate multiple streams of income? Do you have a mailing list to share your new services with? How will you let people know about what you have to offer? Create a business plan to map out how you will market and incorporate additional means of earning income. Moving beyond earning income only through working with one on one clients is the best way to develop a strong financial base that won't be subjected to the ups and downs of the finanical climate. Start making a plan how you will create this new type of business today.
5. Have Faith: This last step is often the hardest for all of us. Try to remember that even when it seems like no one needs what you have to offer, that God gave you your unique gifts for a reason. I promise you that someone out there is praying for help only you can provide right now. Believe that your special abilities are here as part of your Divine Purpose, which means God must have a plan for how the people who need your gifts are going to find you. Hang in there...the one thing you can count on in life is change, so if you are in a down swing, an upswing must be on the way!
Take care!
Nancy
PS. I'm taking my own advice...check out my new Empowering Lightworkers eClub where you can experience the benefits of my coaching services, network with other Lightworkers, and get discounts on private sessions and classes with me~all for only $10/month! Plus, as a special bonus for helping me launch this new project, the first month is free. To learn more or to join us, click on this link: http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com/eClub.html.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Body Wisdom
Body Wisdom
Have you ever had one of those times when you are considering a course of action and find yourself experiencing a lot of physical distress? For years, I simply saw this as nervousness on my part and proceeded to override my fears and forge ahead anyway. Usually, I’d end up sick or in a situation that was not good for me.
Finally, after a couple years of polarity therapy, I learned a very vital lesson. My body is wise. In fact, it is the wisest part of me. What I’d taken for weakness was actually a sophisticated warning system trying to let me know that the course of action I was about to pursue was not highest and best for me.
This month, I encourage you to try listening to your body. When you notice that it is under stress (heart flutters, tension, stomach ache, tense), instead of pushing forward, stop instead.
Here is a simple procedure to help you start listening and understanding your body’s messages:
1. Return your body to a place of peace. Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 6 seconds, and hold for 4 seconds. Continue this patterned breathing for three rounds while repeating, “I am safe and all is well.”
2. Imagine the action you are considering. See yourself doing it. How does your body feel? If it is tense or you feel a sudden pain, this is not the highest and best course for you to follow.
3. Continue to imagine different options until you body reacts with peace. Try to think creatively and come up with gentler ways to go forward with your plans. Can you do it on a smaller scale? Is there a way to get the help of others first?
4. Follow through and thank your body for helping you pick the best choice for you. Now that you have gotten the message about what you need, follow through! Don’t be tempted to override this knowledge. You’ll find that the more you do this, the easier it will be for you to select only that which is in your best interest.
Nancy Nicholas
Holistic Life Coach/Intuitive Healer/Medium
(330) 416-6184
http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com
http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com
http://www.sanctuaryatcrossroads.com
Have you ever had one of those times when you are considering a course of action and find yourself experiencing a lot of physical distress? For years, I simply saw this as nervousness on my part and proceeded to override my fears and forge ahead anyway. Usually, I’d end up sick or in a situation that was not good for me.
Finally, after a couple years of polarity therapy, I learned a very vital lesson. My body is wise. In fact, it is the wisest part of me. What I’d taken for weakness was actually a sophisticated warning system trying to let me know that the course of action I was about to pursue was not highest and best for me.
This month, I encourage you to try listening to your body. When you notice that it is under stress (heart flutters, tension, stomach ache, tense), instead of pushing forward, stop instead.
Here is a simple procedure to help you start listening and understanding your body’s messages:
1. Return your body to a place of peace. Breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 6 seconds, and hold for 4 seconds. Continue this patterned breathing for three rounds while repeating, “I am safe and all is well.”
2. Imagine the action you are considering. See yourself doing it. How does your body feel? If it is tense or you feel a sudden pain, this is not the highest and best course for you to follow.
3. Continue to imagine different options until you body reacts with peace. Try to think creatively and come up with gentler ways to go forward with your plans. Can you do it on a smaller scale? Is there a way to get the help of others first?
4. Follow through and thank your body for helping you pick the best choice for you. Now that you have gotten the message about what you need, follow through! Don’t be tempted to override this knowledge. You’ll find that the more you do this, the easier it will be for you to select only that which is in your best interest.
Nancy Nicholas
Holistic Life Coach/Intuitive Healer/Medium
(330) 416-6184
http://www.empoweringlightworkers.com
http://www.crossroadscoachingonline.com
http://www.sanctuaryatcrossroads.com
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