Divine Ambition

Merging spirituality and professionalism. Empowering women in both their personal and professional lives.

DIVINE AMBITION

Editors Notes

As the editor of this magazine, I was guided to create a platform for women who are seeking something deeper in their lives I recognised that there are many women out there who may be questioning if they are on the right path, both professionally and personally

Yearning for a sense of purpose and fulfilment that goes beyond the surface-level achievements It became clear to me that there was a need for a publication that could provide guidance, inspiration, and support to these women on their journey of self-discovery

Drawing on my own personal experiences, I understand the many struggles and doubts that can arise when navigating the intersection of spirituality and the business world

I have questioned whether there is truly a place for spirituality in the corporate realm Through my own exploration and growth, I have come to realise that not only is there a place for spirituality in the business world, but it is essential for creating a more balanced and meaningful approach to work and life

By sharing my own insights and inviting thoughtprovoking discussions, I aim to challenge conventional beliefs and encourage women to embrace their spiritual side while pursuing their professional aspirations

This magazine serves as a guide, offering a space for reflection, exploration, and empowerment as we delve into the big questions that arise on this journey of integrating spirituality and success

Nicola Richardson Author Coach and Founder

HOME LIFE: Back to School.

As kids go back to school, it brings a sense of relief and opportunity for us working mums to refocus on our own path and goals again The return to a structured routine allows us to carve out dedicated time for self-care, personal growth, and spiritual exploration With children engaged in education again, we can now prioritise our own well-being and reconnect with our own aspirations

This transitional period signifies a chance to reestablish balance and alignment in our lives. It offers space to dive deeper into any spiritual practices, whether it be meditation, yoga, or mindfulness, and to nurture personal growth

With the demands of parenting temporarily eased, mums can invest more time and energy into pursuing their own goals, whether they are related to their careers, personal development, or spiritual journeys

This renewed focus on your own path not only benefits you, but also allows you to show up more authentically and wholeheartedly for families and professional endeavours

WORK LIFE: The great divide - WFH versus remote

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the year 2020 witnessed a remarkable transformation in the way we worked

The global crisis forced a quick and unprecedented switch to remote work, and what initially seemed like a temporary solution soon became a new way of operating for many organisations

Surprisingly, the transition to remote work was mostly met with enthusiasm and adaptability from professionals across various industries

Companies swiftly embraced digital tools and technologies to facilitate seamless collaboration and communication, enabling teams to stay connected and productive regardless of physical distance

This shift to remote work not only proved the resilience and flexibility of the workforce but also highlighted the potential for increased work-life balance and reduced commuting stress

Professionals discovered the benefits of working from home, such as the ability to customise their work environment, spend more time with loved ones, and achieve a better integration of personal and professional responsibilities

As a result, many organisations adopted a hybrid work model, allowing employees to choose between remote and in-person work based on their preferences and job requirements

This new way of working promoted a sense of empowerment and autonomy, ultimately leading to higher job satisfaction and productivity levels across the board

WORK LIFE: The great divide - WFH versus remote

Businesses are now changing stance and many are trying to enforce a return to the office environment permanently This shift has sparked discussions about the reasons behind businesses wanting employees back in the office more often

While some employees have embraced the flexibility and convenience of remote work, employers are considering the benefits of in-person collaboration, productivity, and company culture.

However, it is also crucial to acknowledge the potential impact to the employee and mental health It is proving a tough balance to find solutions that prioritises both business needs and the wellbeing of employees

Let us consider some of the main elements to this argument:

The Importance of In-Person Collaboration:

One of the primary reasons businesses are eager to bring employees back to the office is the value of in-person collaboration Face-to-face interactions encourage creativity, innovation, and effective teamwork The spontaneous exchange of ideas, brainstorming sessions, and impromptu conversations that occur in an office setting can lead to breakthroughs and collaborative outcomes that are often challenging to replicate virtually By having employees physically present, businesses are hoping to enhance communication, problem-solving, and overall productivity

Nurturing Company Culture:

Another significant factor driving the desire to return to the office is the preservation and cultivation of company culture Office environments provide a shared space where employees can connect, build relationships, and develop a sense of belonging

Informal interactions, such as the “water cooler” conversations or team-building activities, contribute to a cohesive and supportive work culture Businesses recognise that a strong company culture encourages employee engagement, loyalty, and a sense of purpose, which ultimately leads to higher productivity and job satisfaction

WORK LIFE: The great divide - wfh versus remote

Considering Employee Mental Health:

While businesses have valid reasons for wanting employees back in the office, it is crucial to address the potential impact on mental health The transition from remote work to a more traditional office setting can be challenging for some individuals Employees may have grown accustomed to the flexibility and autonomy that working from home provided

The change in routine, commuting stress, and potential loss of work-life balance can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and burnout

To mitigate these challenges, businesses will hopefully prioritise employee well-being

This can be achieved by implementing flexible work arrangements that allow for a hybrid model, combining in-person and remote work

By offering employees the freedom to choose where they work, businesses can accommodate individual preferences and promote a healthier work-life integration.

Additionally, providing mental health resources, such as counselling services or wellness programmes, can support employees in managing stress and maintaining their overall well-being Please make contact (redmountainuk@gmail com) if you wish to discuss tailored training programmes to support your organisation with any return to the workplace strategies.

Tailored training empowers employees to adapt quickly to changing work environments, boosts productivity, and ultimately contributes to the overall success of the organisation's return to the workplace goals

WORK LIFE: Thriving in Business as an Introvert.

Embracing Your Strengths

Introversion is often misunderstood in the business world, where extroversion is often celebrated and associated with success However, being an introvert can be a unique advantage that can lead to thriving in the professional realm By understanding and embracing your introverted nature, you can harness your strengths and navigate the business world with confidence and authenticity

One key aspect of thriving as an introvert in the business world is recognising the power of introspection and reflection Introverts tend to be deep thinkers and excellent listeners, which can be invaluable in decision-making and problem-solving Take advantage of your natural inclination to analyse situations and gather information before making decisions This thoughtful approach can lead to well-informed choices and strategic moves that set you apart from your extroverted counterparts

Networking can be a daunting task for introverts, but it doesn't have to be Instead of forcing yourself into large social gatherings, focus on building meaningful connections on a more personal level. Seek out one-on-one conversations or smaller group settings where you can engage in deeper discussions Quality over quantity is key for introverts, so invest your energy in building genuine relationships with individuals who share your values and interests

Another essential aspect of thriving as an introvert in the business world is recognising the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. Introverts often need time alone to recharge and regain their energy Prioritise self-care practices such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy

By honouring your need for solitude and downtime, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout.

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WORK LIFE: Thriving in Business as an Introvert.

Embracing Your Strengths

Embrace your unique strengths as an introvert. Your ability to listen attentively, think critically, and empathise deeply can be invaluable in building strong relationships, teamwork, and making thoughtful contributions Recognise that introversion is not a weakness but a valuable asset that can contribute to your success in the business world

In conclusion, thriving as an introvert in the business world is about embracing your strengths, setting boundaries, and leveraging your unique qualities By understanding and honouring your introverted nature, you can navigate the professional landscape with confidence, authenticity, and ultimately achieve success on your own terms

If you are unsure of your personality type and keen to explore more. There are various psychometric tests available that can provide a better understanding of your personality traits and preferences

One popular test is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), which categorises individuals into 16 different personality types based on four characteristics: extraversion/introversion, sensing/intuition, thinking/feeling, and judging/perceiving

To find out your personality type using psychometrics, you can take online versions of the MBTI or similar tests These tests typically consist of a series of questions that assess different aspects of your personality, and the results can provide valuable information about your strengths, weaknesses, and potential career paths Also a very useful tool to have when plotting out the SWOT skillsets in your teams

Imposter Syndrome

Anxiety or self-doubt that results from persistently undervaluing one’s competence and active role in achieving success, while falsely attributing one's accomplishments to luck or other external forces.

JARGON BUSTER

Mansplaining

The tendency of a Man to explain something to a Woman in a condescending, overconfident, and often inaccurate or oversimplified manner, typically to a woman already knowledgeable about the topic.

DIVINE DEVELOPMENT

"What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are tiny matters compared to what lies within us."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

DIVINE DEVELOPMENT:

The Remarkable Benefits of Journaling: Unleash Your Inner Potential

Life can be and often is hectic. Finding moments of selfreflection and introspection can be challenging However, one timeless practice that has stood the test of time is journaling Whether it's penning down your thoughts, experiences, or even your dreams, journaling offers a multitude of benefits that can positively impact your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being

Here, we will explore some of the remarkable benefits of journaling and why it is worth incorporating into your daily routine.

1. Emotional Release and Stress Reduction:

Journaling serves as a safe space to express and process emotions. By putting your thoughts and feelings onto paper, you can gain clarity, release pent-up emotions, and reduce stress It allows you to unload your worries, fears, and frustrations, leading to a sense of relief and emotional balance.

2.

Self-Reflection and Personal Growth:

Writing in a journal provides an opportunity for selfreflection and personal growth. It allows you to explore your thoughts, beliefs, and values, helping you gain a deeper understanding of yourself Through journaling, you can identify patterns, set goals, and track your progress, leading to personal development and a greater sense of self-awareness.

3. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making:

When faced with challenges or difficult decisions, journaling can be a valuable tool. Writing down the problem or dilemma, brainstorming potential solutions, and weighing the pros and cons can provide clarity and insights that may not have emerged otherwise Journaling helps organise your thoughts, enabling you to make more informed decisions and solve problems effectively.

DIVINE DEVELOPMENT:

The Remarkable Benefits of Journaling: Unleash Your Inner Potential

4. Boosting Creativity and Inspiration:

Journaling can unleash your creativity and ignite your imagination By allowing your thoughts to flow freely onto paper, you can tap into your creative side and discover new ideas, perspectives, and solutions. Many writers, artists, and entrepreneurs use journaling as a source of inspiration, capturing moments of brilliance that can later be expanded upon.

5 Tracking Personal Achievements and Gratitude:

Keeping a journal enables you to document your accomplishments, big or small, and cultivate a sense of gratitude. By regularly acknowledging and celebrating your achievements, you boost selfconfidence and motivation and keep a positive mindset Additionally, practicing gratitude by writing down things you are thankful for can enhance overall well-being and promote a more positive outlook on life

Conclusion:

Journaling is a powerful and accessible tool that can benefit anyone willing to invest time and effort into it

From emotional release and stress reduction to self-reflection, problem-solving, and creativity enhancement, the benefits of journaling are vast

By incorporating this practice into your daily routine, you can unlock your inner potential, improve personal growth, and achieve a greater sense of well-being

Are you passionate and driven, looking for opportunities to share your unique perspective and experiences? Do you believe that your voice deserves to be heard and that your insights could contribute to DIVINE AMBITION?

In today's world, it is essential to empower and uplift women's voices, while showcasing the diversity of our experiences At DIVINE AMBITION we firmly believe that everyone has a story worth sharing, and we are searching for likeminded women who can bring their expertise, creativity, and passion to the publication.

Do you want to get involved?

Our aim is to create a platform that amplifies voices, inspires others, and champions genuine connections among women Together, let's inspire, inform, and empower others through the power of our shared knowledge and experiences Don't hesitate to reach out and let us know how you envision contributing or if you would like to be interviewed.

We are excited to embark on this new chapter with you!

Email: redmountainuk@gmail.com