Dr. Tarin Hyder - Ambition & Career by Women2Women Michigan Magazine

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“Don’t

sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get

up and make them.”

— Madam C.J. Walker

Director/Marketing

Director

Ambitions & Career

Can you believe it? As you are reading this, summer is almost half over. I’m wondering, have you been able to accomplish some of the items on your bucket list? Or your “to-do” list? We all know that time has a way of getting away from us and I’ve found we need to be purposeful about how we spend it.

This issue is about ambition and career. These can go hand-in-hand, and ambition, like a career, is different for everyone. For some it may mean determining to plant a garden this year or planning to hike one of our beautiful places in Michigan for the first time. Ambition can even encompass the desire to make the most of our limited amount of summer weather to enjoy your family—again, being purposeful in how we spend our time.

Ambition is “a strong desire to do or to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work”. And probably for most of us, we must have determination and put in the work to achieve the things we really desire. And that is what differentiates it from “wish”. Being on purpose. Even protective of achieving our desires so “time-stealers” don’t leave them in the dust.

However, in our drive to accomplish, we must be sure to allow room for awe and wonder. That’s what my article Glimmers: Finding Moments of Joy is about. As usual, our writers have given you a lot to read and think about. Colleen Kilpatrick wrote an amazing article (you’ve got to read it to believe it!) about unabashedly seizing the opportunity for the career she wanted—and winning! It’s called Affirm, Act, Achieve. And in the practical realm, Debra Loader tells us how to incorporate health and career (and all the busy aspects of our lives) by healthy meal planning in her article Career and Health Can Coexist—Quick Healthy Meals. We’ve also highlighted two lovely young business owners you will enjoy reading about and getting to know.

Happy summer! Thank you for being a part of our uplifting community. Enjoy!

Stay informed of W2W happenings through our email newsletter. If you haven’t been receiving them, visit www.w2wmichigan.com and sign up!

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We are looking for women interested in collaborating with us on a variety of different projects throughout the year. If you support what W2W stands for and like to be out in the community, this could be you! Please email our publisher, Debra, at deb@w2wmichigan.com if you want to be a part of this fun and engaging team.

contributing writers

Dr. Tarin N. Hyder • Jill Carr • Suzanne Young • Mimi Matthews

Jennifer Gardner • Kelly Stonerock • Joy Dettling • Brittany Willingham

Colleen Kilpatrick • Trice Berlinski • Jennifer Beard • Debra Loader

Trice Berlinski Executive Assistant

Debra K. Collins Publisher/Editor in Chief

Mimi Matthews Content Editor

Kellie Pardi Creative

Jennifer Gardner Art

10 Ambitious Questions

Where is my inspiration coming from? Is it rooted in desire, intuition, fear, comparison, or something else?

Do I feel in alignment with my highest desires? Or am I chasing someone else's version of success?

Am I creating in my life — or just consuming and reacting? True ambition flows through creation, not just productivity.

Am I making space for myself to create?

If not, what needs to be released or restructured?

What does my body say when I think about my current goals? Tightness? Excitement? Exhaustion? Your nervous system is a compass.

Is my inner child — and my highest self — happy with the life I’ve created? What would they ask me to change or celebrate?

“Don't be afraid of your ambition. It's a holy fire.”

~

Danielle LaPorte

Where am I confusing busyness with purpose? And what would I choose if presence became my metric of success?

Am I pursuing this because it’s meaningful — or because it’s expected? What goals are truly mine, and which ones did I inherit without question?

Am I nurturing the inner world that my outer goals depend on? Discipline is beautiful. But so is rest. So is healing.

If ambition was less about force and more about flow — what would shift? What could happen if I moved from alignment instead of pressure?

Jennifer Gardner is a wife and mother of two girls. She loves being creative with the ladies of Women2Women Michigan Magazine.

Our Healing Path is Our Journey Self-Discoveryto

Dr. Tarin N. Hyder

We all have our own story. It’s what we choose to do with it that will make us who we are today. Will we choose for it to lock us away in the darkness? Or will we choose to walk through the darkness, find the light, and shine our light onto another’s darkness?

As for me, my story began in December 2012. That night, just like every other night, I tucked my precious children into bed. I held them, I kissed them, and I told them both how much I love them. I climbed into bed, curled up into my husband’s comforting arms, told him how much I love him, and safely drifted off to sleep. That night there were no warning signs to prepare me for what the next morning would bring, nor the ripple effect that would be caused over the course of the next few years.

That morning, I awoke in a state of full-blown panic. The fiery feeling of hell coursed throughout my entire body as I went from one panic attack to the next. The terror swallowed me whole, leaving me in a chronic state of anxiousness, and depression. I chose to hide behind my darkness, I chose not to talk about it, I chose to try to bury it as the stigma associated with mental health illness was just too much for me to bear. I turned to ‘Dr. Google’; I took all ‘his’ advice, and I attempted to secretly heal myself.

I wasn’t getting better, but I wasn’t getting any worse either. I had successfully found a balance between panic, anxiety and depression that no one could live in forever. It was at this point that I knew that I needed to seek outside guidance for the sake of myself and my family. I mustered the courage and scheduled an appointment to see my primary care provider. I went to my appointment feeling hopeful and, unfortunately, left my appointment feeling worse about my ‘condition’ than I had felt in the first place. The dreaded fear of being told that “I would never get better, that there is no cure for mental illness and that at best, with medicine, I could temporarily mask the symptoms” had now been implanted in my subconscious mind. I would be sick for the rest of my life

and my only “temporary” hope was in a medicine that had worse side effects than the symptoms I was suffering from in the first place? I took the script and refusing to believe that for myself, I folded it in half, and I tucked it away in my purse. One year later, I broke down, and I filled the script due to the concern from my family.

To say that prescription was the devil is an understatement. The panic attacks worsened, the anxiety and depression were at an all-time new high, and to add insult to injury, new symptoms were beginning. “That’s a perfectly normal reaction. Keep taking the SSRI, symptoms may get worse before they get better,” said my primary care provider. Just like any other compliant patient, I took that little yellow pill of pure man-made evil. I took it every day, becoming more and more afraid as my symptoms were becoming exacerbated. What I thought was anxiety couldn’t even compare to what it had become. And then, when I thought things couldn’t get worse, SURPRISE! I began hallucinating and having delusions just as the SSRI FDA Access Document had warned. Every single minute of every single day felt like a nightmare that I couldn’t wake up from. I was engulfed in sheer terror.

At this time, I hit rock bottom. I hit such a low point in my life that I thought it was best for me to take my own life (per the SSRI FDA Access Document: SSRI Induced Suicidal Ideation). I walked into my children’s bedrooms, I hugged them, I kissed them, I told them how much I love them, and then I told them that I was going to Meijer. I walked into the kitchen where my husband was. I hugged him, I kissed him, I told him how much I love him, and then I told him I was going to Meijer. I got into my car, I shut my cellphone off, and I drove to Meijer. I walked into Meijer, purchased my items, and then left. I drove around in the dark, not knowing where I was going until I found what appeared to be an abandoned baseball field. I got out of my car and walked to the dugout. Standing inside the dugout, I hung a metal dog chain. I wrapped my hands around it and swung on it to ensure that it could bear my weight. I took the metal dog choke collar out of the plastic Meijer bag, and my eyes welled with tears, but in my mind, I thought that this was

best for both my family and me (SSRI Induced Suicidal Ideation). My knees hit the ground with an earth shattering “thud”, and I sobbed as I began to pray. As I was praying, asking Jesus to forgive me for what I was about to do, my cellphone—which was shut off—rang. I am an empath, so when my cellphone rang, not only did it interrupt the suicidal ideation I had succumbed to, but I felt fear that I had never felt before. Fear that was not mine, but that belonged to whomever the caller was.

I immediately jumped up, I grabbed my cellphone, and before answering, I saw my husband’s name, Caleb, light up the screen. I answered the phone. He was hysterical. At first, it was difficult to understand what he was saying. When he caught his breath, the first thing he asked me was, “Tarin, where are you?” When I left he knew, in the pit of his stomach, that there was something wrong. He immediately called me, but hadn’t been able to get hold of me because my phone was shut off, so he left our house, and drove around looking for me. I sobbed as I explained to him that I didn’t know where I was. That I had driven around, taking the back roads, and found an abandoned baseball field.

Within less than a few short minutes, I heard my husband’s car pull up. I heard his feet hitting the ground hard and fast as he came running around the dugout. When he saw me, he ran directly towards me, he wrapped me safely in his arms, we held each other, and we both sobbed. When we caught our breath, I asked him, “How did you find me, and how did you find me so quickly?” He said, “Tarin, as I was on my way to Meijer the other day, and as I always do, I took a wrong turn not paying attention. I pulled into this baseball field to turn around. When I pulled in, I knew God pointed this baseball field out to me for a reason. As soon as you told me that you were at a baseball field, I knew which one because God showed me.”

My husband and God saved my life. Through this storm, I thought God had abandoned me, but he didn’t. He was there the entire time, preparing me by life experiences, to fulfill his purpose for me.

During the time of my storm, I worked in conventional medicine, in cardiology. God shifted my path towards naturopathy where I began healing one layer at a time. As I was healing, God then led me to the Naturopathic Institute of Therapies & Education, in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan to become a Naturopathic Doctor. It was during my final exam, when Dr. Baker asked me, “Why do you deserve to be a Naturopathic Doctor?” that the last few unconnected pieces of my puzzle connected. As tears streamed down my face, with my chest feeling heavy, I courageously released the story of my past and boldly stepped into who I was becoming.

My response: “I went through the storm I went through to prepare myself for this very moment in time. To prove to God that I deserve to be a Naturopathic Doctor, and to prove to myself that I deserve to be a Naturopathic Doctor. Who better to assist those struggling with symptoms of mental health illness than someone who went through the storm, hit rock bottom, found their inner warrior, climbed back out, and fully healed. I am walking, living, and breathing proof that symptoms of mental illness are just that. They are symptoms—the body’s cry for help to re-store homeostasis.” The standing (Continued...)

ovation I received was another confirmation that I was fulfilling God’s purpose for my life.

I am proud to say that I am a daughter of God, a wife, a mom, a Board-Certified Naturopathic Doctor, a Certified Gut and Psychology Syndrome Practitioner, a PSYCH-K Facilitator, an Emotion Code Practitioner, Upledger trained CranioSacral Therapist, forever student and a published author of the book called “Navigating Through, Not Around, Sadness”. My second children’s book (sneak peek: anxiety) has been written and will be published in God’s timing.

My passion lies with those of any age who struggle with symptoms associated with mental health illness. I am blessed to say that, in my practice, I share space with males and females of all ages. A few years ago, while teaching and counseling at a local academy, writing a children’s book was laid on my heart. In the world that we live in, most adults were never given the foundation for navigating through big emotions as children themselves. The more my practice grew with adults, the more I felt compelled to find a way to break this cycle. To break this cycle, adults need to heal their inner child, and at the same time, lay the foundation for their children to find, feel, process, release, and heal big emotions.

In my book, “Navigating Through, Not Around, Sadness” you will find the Hyder’s 5-Step Protocol that will assist you. With the Hyder’s 5-Step Protocol you are acknowledging and honoring

how you feel, identifying your triggers, consciously connecting to your body, dissolving charged emotions, and empowering yourself. Is this a children’s book? Yes! Is it beneficial for adults as well? Yes!

God is the author of your story. Surrender your pen and breathe. This next chapter may be your victory!

Currently, my book can be purchased online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and Walmart by searching the title, Navigating Through, Not Around, Sadness. Also, in person at Herbs Etc. in Mt. Pleasant Michigan.

Naturesgateway.org Facebook/NaturesgatewayLLC

810-207-8056

tarin@naturesgateway.org

11460 Highland Rd. Hartland, MI 48353

sparkle & shine Glimmers

FINDING MOMENTS OF JOY

I must tell you about something wonderful that recently happened!

On my porch where I sit every morning, watching the sun as it begins its climb, is a birdhouse. In that birdhouse for the last five years a Chickadee couple has made its home. It’s only about five feet from me and I just love watching their activity. I can tell when the chicks have hatched because Mister makes a whole lot more Door Dash deliveries each day.

One morning last week as I was pouring my first cup of coffee I heard a lot of chirping sounds outside that I hadn’t heard before. You may wonder how I could even know they were different, with all the sounds birds make in the morning. Well, I have been out to sit on my porch in the early morning almost every day since it warmed up enough to do so. I have heard crazy bird-mating sounds, House Finches and their babies, the Goldfinches and their babies, and numerous other squawks, chirps, songs, and peeps. But this high pitched incessant peeping was new.

As I quickly sat down to see what was happening, I realized that the baby Chickadees were out of their nest and in the bushes in the front flowerbed. They were so adorable! And not very good fliers at all. They’d flutter and flutter, finally attempting a wobbly landing on a shepherd’s hook, a branch, the birdbath edge, or even the vintage watering can next to their house (their dad’s favorite landing spot as a Door Dasher). For about ten minutes I delighted in watching their antics, and then they were gone. My heart was so full of gratitude! For you see, in all these years I had never been around when the babies left the nest. And I almost missed it this time!

After a crazy, busy week, I’d intended to sleep in a little bit that morning. I did not. In fact I was up ten minutes before my usual alarm time. And that ten minutes is what allowed me this delightful and

precious moment with the Chickadees that I’d been talking to for over three weeks. Yes, they know me. We’ve been doing this for a while.

My heart was just so full of gladness and joy from this experience! Which leads me to the point of my story. That very same day I stumbled upon a word that I love because of its (new) meaning. Glimmer. In case you, like me, have not heard of this word, here’s its wonderful definition: tiny micro moments of joy—fleeting, everyday moments that elicit a rush of happiness, gratitude, calm, peace, safety, or goodwill.

Oh my! Is there anything more wonderful than receiving a glimmer? Now that I know what they are called—and I’ve received many—some of my own glimmers have been: “just happening” to catch a gorgeous sunset, feeling the sun on my face each morning as I sit on the porch, finding a heart-shaped rock or other item that just “appeared”, seeing 11:11 on the clock, having a favorite song (that I actually know all the words to) come on the radio so I can belt it out as I sing along, spotting the perfect butterfly on a perfect flower, and the sound of rain.

I’ve called these joyful moments many things (I believe they are God’s love notes to me), but now I will call them glimmers. Here’s what I’ve discovered. When I began to notice these moments of joy and delight, I received more and more of them. Someone commented that I have so many because I take the time and have eyes to see them. Which is true. Someone else said that I purposely look for them, which is not always true. For example, I really do not go looking on the ground for heartshaped rocks. However, I found two on my recent camping trip. I see heart shapes all the time—water spots, melting snow, leaves, stains, bits of trash, and once even part of my scrambled eggs. And neither do I look for 11:11 on the clock—that takes the surprise out of it. But I am more aware

now, taking time to notice things. Plus, I actively look for rainbows and the perfect sunset.

I believe I’ve been blessed with so many glimmers because I do take time and I look around with my eyes wide open. I have great curiosity and wonder, and I realize the significance of the small things. I allow them to fill my heart with joy.

There really is a lot of joy to be found around us in our daily lives if we take the time to notice.

It has become my life’s ambition: finding as much joy as possible in the beautiful life I’m living.

It’s a practiced art and I hope you will see the benefit of it and join me. I firmly believe that glimmers help our spirits flourish. And we need all the joy we can find.

Mimi Matthews is in the “encouragement business” as the owner of Empowordment Cards by Mimi. She is also a speaker, workshop leader, writer, and our editor. Visit her shop at www.etsy.com/shop/ EmPOWordmentCards and her blog at www. particularpassions.me.

called to create

SA Story to Inspire Your Wildest Dreams Affirm. Act. Achieve.

ix months before I was to graduate from college, I came to a sinking realization: my chosen career path was not for me.

I had pursued an International Relations degree with a dream of making a difference in the public sector, but my hands-on experiences during college left me feeling disillusioned. Despite this daunting awareness, I chose to complete my degree while embarking on a quest to discover a new vision for my future.

During this period of exploration and soulsearching, I came to understand that my enthusiasm for a career in International Relations wasn't rooted in politics or bureaucratic aspirations, but rather in a heartfelt desire to travel the globe and connect with people from all walks of life. Embracing this newfound clarity, I eagerly embarked on the next phase of my journey with a simple, yet powerful affirmation:

I am traveling the world and getting paid for it.

Uncertain of the perfect career match for my dreamsexcept perhaps that of a flight attendant - I eagerly sent out resumes hoping to find an organization that would align with my revised aspirations.

Although I attended a few interviews and received a couple job offers, none involved travel or truly captured my interest. I graduated with honors, but jobless, and moved back in with my parents.

A month later, with my new affirmation still echoing in my mind but no job in sight, I spent a long weekend visiting my college housemates.

During a reflective early morning walk on campus, I stopped in the student union for a cup of tea and stumbled upon an aged student newspaper. At the back, a headline in the classified section boldly proclaimed:

“Travel the world and get paid for it.”

As I read these words that so perfectly mirrored my affirmation, a thrilling chill ran down my spine—this job felt destined for me.

It was a Saturday, pre-internet, leaving me with no clear action but to continue affirming my dream. Extending my visit, I was determined to be the first person at the career placement center on Monday morning to request an interview and learn more about the opportunity.

Monday morning, I approached the woman at the information desk and made my inquiry. With a dismissive scoff, she informed me that all interview slots had been filled on the very first day the ad appeared, over a week earlier. When I asked about a waitlist, I learned I was number 53 leaving little hope of securing an interview.

I was disappointed, but undeterred. In that moment, a quote I knew well came to mind:

"Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it."

~Johann Wolfgang Goethe

Those words emboldened me.

I was not yet a student of manifesting nor did I understand the power of affirmations, but I was driven by a deep determination to get that job and an unwavering belief that I could. So I got into action.

"Take

the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."

~Martin Luther King Jr.

From the information desk, I walked directly to the library within the career center where I immersed myself in research about the company, its leaders, clients, and the position of corporate travel director. This research inspired a new idea.

The next day, I called the company headquarters and arranged to interview three managers in the travel department about the position. The knowledge gained from those conversations inspired me to craft an “Executive Summary” that highlighted the three essential skills of a successful travel director and illustrated how I had demonstrated those skills previously. In the final days leading up to the interviews, I carefully prepared an information packet for each interviewer, including my executive summary, cover letter, and resume.

When interview day finally dawned, despite being 53rd on the waitlist, I dressed and prepared as if I had a confirmed appointment. Arriving early, I confidently approached the two company representatives, introduced myself, and candidly explained my situation. As our brief encounter came to a close, I handed each of them a packet and warmly said, "I'll be at home waiting for your call."

Two hours later, the phone rang. On the other end was one of the interviewers offering me a brief 10-minute slot during his lunch hour. What began as a short meeting turned into an intense 45-minute session, with both interviewers firing challenging questions in rapid succession. This rigorous discussion paved the way for further interviews at the company's headquarters, ultimately leading to a thrilling job offer.

To my complete delight, I was now traveling the world and getting paid for it, just as I had envisioned and affirmed.

I later discovered that over 2,000 candidates had been interviewed for just 12 positions. Had I truly grasped those odds from the start, I might have felt daunted by the initial obstacles. However, learning this in hindsight illuminated a powerful truth: boldness indeed has a magical quality that can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Through this experience and many that followed, I have come to understand—and continue to learn—that manifesting our dreams follows a particular process that begins with defining what we desire.

When my efforts to manifest falter, it's usually because I lack clarity about what I want—unlike the vivid clarity I had when aspiring to travel the world and be paid for it. Bob Proctor's insightful words

emphasize the importance of this initial first step:

“The problem has never been getting what we want; the problem is deciding what we want. The key to knowing what we want lies in our ability to think independently of our circumstances.”

~Bob Proctor

When we let our current circumstances dictate our dreams, we limit ourselves to a mindset of scarcity and limitation, perpetuating the very conditions we wish to change. By freeing our thoughts from the confines of our present situation, we unlock a realm of new possibilities and gain a clearer awareness of our true ambitions.

“Thinking produces the thoughts. Thoughts produce the feelings. Feelings produce the actions. Actions produce the results.”

~Bob Proctor

Remember, your journey is uniquely yours to create. With clarity, courageous actions, and unwavering persistence, watch as your dreams and goals unfold in marvelous and unexpected ways. Trust that boldness indeed carries within it genius, power, and magic.

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.”

~Henry David Thoreau

“Affirmations work when you do.”

Unknown

Colleen Kilpatrick is the Author of “Eliminate What You Tolerate”, a concise, but mighty book that has earned a 5-star rating on Amazon for helping readers identify and release what no longer serves them and make room for what lights them up. A Wellbeing Mentor, Colleen helps women discover the transformative powers of ancient and modern wisdom and selfcare practices to revitalize body, mind, and spirit naturally. You can contact Colleen at colleen@colleenkilpatrick@icloud.com or 248-762-9828.

The Dynamic Duo: Risk Plus Faith law of attraction

As I sat down to write this article, I had no idea what my topic would be. Suddenly, a thought went through my mind. The thought was: Dynamic Duo equals Risk plus Faith. I then realized that one of the most beneficial law of attraction principles I've learned is when you are ready to step out of your comfort zone and take a risk, you can be assured of attracting great results when you let go of how you're going to manifest this new desire and then simply turn it over to the Universe/God to handle the how

One thing I've experienced over my many years of practicing the law of attraction is that when I'm wanting to manifest a new and exciting experience, I often journal about it and ask the universe for guidance. Sometimes I end up writing what I need to hear in my journal. Sometimes the guidance shows up in the form of a well-orchestrated synchronicity. And sometimes I feel a nudge to do something, or I hear words run through my mind that move me forward towards my desired manifestation.

So, when this idea, Dynamic Duo equals Risk plus Faith appeared in my mind I knew it was a sign that this would be an enjoyable topic to write about.

As I put my pen to paper, I began thinking about how easy it was to take risks as a child. From the time I was born up until school age I was blessed to have parents who did not judge me or criticize me when I tried things that didn’t work out. When I tried something new, I never worried that I was taking a risk because I was never told I couldn't accomplish it.

It was a different story when it came to school. I found myself experiencing critical and judgmental adults. I also watched bullies laugh at others and call

them names when they made mistakes. School had rules that I didn't have at home, so learning or exploring anything I wanted to, whenever I wanted to, came to a halt. This is when I took on the attitude that it wasn't worth taking a risk that could possibly make me feel ashamed or embarrassed.

When I was 34, out of the blue I got a phone call from a girlfriend I hadn't talked to in over a year. (In hindsight it wasn't “out of the blue” but instead a wellorchestrated synchronicity that would change my life forever). She told me she was having fun and making great money selling UndercoverWear lingerie at home parties. She thought I would be good at it because she knew I loved having a fun girl’s night out but she knew I never took time to do this for myself. She also knew that I had been unhappy for a long time because my husband was a verbally abusive, controlling, alcoholic man.

I was faced with a dilemma. Should I take a risk and ask my husband for the money? He always went to the bar every night so I highly doubted he would be willing to stop that habit and come home to babysit the kids on the evenings I had a home party scheduled. Gratefully, a sweet, kind voice in my head told me to take the risk.

The night I told him what I wanted to do, he quickly came up with several reasons why he didn’t want to give me the money. He became verbally abusive (as usual) so rather than trying to fight with him I decided to take a deep breath, sit quietly, and tune him out. During this quiet moment I came to peace with the fact that he was going to say no. I decided to let go of any need to convince him.

The next thing that happened really surprised me. During this quiet time a thought suddenly popped into my head

that said, “If you give me the money, I will be successful.” This thought was calm and peaceful and encouraging. It seemed odd because it sounded like I was talking to myself. It even sounded exactly like my voice, yet I knew these weren’t my thoughts because I knew for sure he was going to say NO. Much to my amazement, within a couple of minutes after I heard this voice in my head my husband said, “Fine, here's the money.” As he walked away, he said, “You'll never be successful.”

Three years after he gave me the money, I was one of the top achievers in UndercoverWear. I had built a structure of 150 women and was making as much money as my husband who was an automotive engineer. This enabled me to get a divorce and raise my four children as a single parent for the next 10 years. Thank you, God!

This true story reminds me how I came to believe (by proving it to myself first) that the law of attraction’s Dynamic Duo equals Risk plus Faith. If you'd like to walk away from an abusive relationship, or become healthier or maybe start a new business, I invite you to try using the LoA’s Dynamic Duo and find out for yourself how the Universe/God might surprise and delight you in ways you never could have imagined. You’ll also discover that where there is faith there is no risk.

Suzanne Young is an intuitive life coach who specializes in the Law of Attraction. She is also an inspirational speaker, author, and co-owner of Personal Success Programs, since 2007, with her husband Kevin Young. You can email her at suzanne@psprograms.com and their website is www.psprograms.com. Her office number is 248.349.6225.

The Cost of Conformity

As I sat watching tears roll down her cheeks, I felt the weight of her pain. She’s been in her career for over 20 years. What once gave her a sense of purpose now drains her. And if she’s being honest, the decline started a decade ago. She’s only a few years away from receiving her full pension—but through her sobs, she tells me, “I don’t know if I can make it.” Her work is slowly consuming her, and it’s touching every part of her life.

She’s not alone. So many of my clients find themselves out of alignment with their values, their passions, and their sense of self. I’ve been there too. Many of us have.

We try to be grateful—for the steady paycheck, the stability—but inside we’re restless. Monday mornings feel heavier and heavier. We slap on a brave face and whisper, “I can do this,” all the while wondering if we actually can.

In my 30s, I had a steady job working for a man many called a tyrant. He ran multiple successful businesses, and while he treated me better than most, the environment was still unhealthy. I was everything from project manager to personal assistant to travel coordinator—and sometimes, it felt like I was expected to do the impossible.

Then, my dad passed away.

His death wasn’t entirely unexpected, but it still hit hard. I took a week off to handle funeral arrangements and support my family. In that space, something shifted. I saw my life, my work, and my choices more clearly.

When I returned, I no longer had the will to sacrifice myself for a job that didn’t

nourish me. I gave my notice, enrolled in college, and never looked back.

That wake-up call was painful—but necessary. It showed me just how far out of alignment I had been. And once I stepped into something that truly engaged me, my heart felt full again. I began to heal.

The truth is, we all have the choice to conform—to stay in jobs, relationships, or environments that check the “acceptable” boxes, but leave our souls aching. And while I believe there are many paths we can thrive in, too often we settle into roles that feel safe or familiar, even when they’re slowly depleting us.

Not everyone wants a traditional job. Some people are meant to be artists, coaches, herbalists, homesteaders, or furniture flippers. But we’re told those things aren’t realistic. We’re told they won’t pay the bills.

Maybe you can’t quit your job tomorrow—but could you carve out a few hours each week to explore what lights you up? Could you test the waters with a side project? Could you let yourself imagine a life that actually fits you?

If what you want doesn’t exist yet, maybe that’s your cue to create it.

Here are three women who followed that impulse:

████ CLEO WADE ████

Cleo brought poetry to Instagram— short, heartfelt messages about selflove and healing that built a global community and turned her into a bestselling author.

████ KAYLA ITSINES ████

Kayla turned home workouts into a fitness empire, proving that social media could be a powerful platform for empowerment, wellness, and business.

████ MARIE KONDO ████

Marie took the simple act of tidying and made it a worldwide movement, blending organization with joy and transforming everyday life.

None of them waited for permission. They followed what felt true and created something new. It didn’t happen overnight—but it happened because they believed it was possible.

And that’s where it begins for all of us: not with a perfect plan, but with the quiet decision to trust that voice inside that says, “There’s more for me than this.”

If you’re feeling off-track, disconnected, or worn down—it’s not because you’re broken. It’s because you’re being called back to yourself.

Whether it’s a bold leap or a series of tiny steps, you deserve work—and a life—that honors who you are. The world needs more people who are lit up from the inside. Not just surviving… but thriving.

Start small if you have to. But whatever you do—start.

Jennifer Beard, owner of Bold Life & Bold Life Academy, guides individuals through transformative shifts in behavior, beliefs, and emotions, unlocking the path to their most extraordinary lives. Visit Jennifer at JenniferBeard.com.

Being Too Conservative

WHAT A RIDE 2025 HAS BEEN, HUH? UGH.

Markets are back to relative normal...although there are still bumps along the way, which again IS normal. Volatility is a part of the deal when investing. When you look over the long-term, however, markets tend to move upwards.

With that said, this past year has been a great test of an individual’s risk tolerance. When you first set up an investment account, you may be asked about your risk tolerance, which impacts how your account is invested. Your risk tolerance is generally based on three things:

1. RISK CAPACITY: how much risk you can take given your current situation and the goals you’ve identified

2. RISK PROPENSITY: how much risk you are comfortable with

3. RISK RECOGNITION: how much risk you think there is

Last year, when the markets were up double digits, everyone's risk propensity was probably pretty high.....it’s easy to be enthusiastic about taking risk when stocks are doing well. Your risk tolerance may change over time. What you are comfortable with today from a risk perspective, is probably less than what it was last year, but more than it was in March.

Also, not a lot of people factor in risk capacity. Just because you may be comfortable with your investments dropping 25%

doesn’t mean that you are able to take on that much risk. For example, you may need money in the short term (6 to 12 months from now) and may not have the time to recover from a down market.

It is perfectly okay to be conservative in your investing. We want people to be able to sleep at night. Those more conservative in their investing may see smaller returns and need to adjust their spending needs or save more.

Experiencing a market drop and imagining a market drop are two different things. If you experienced panic in March/April when your account values likely dropped, then you may want to change your risk tolerance. Now, when the markets are getting back to their highs, it could be a good time to make risk tolerance changes. This is something you can discuss with your financial advisor.

In the meantime, I recommend that you build up cash in your emergency savings and keep it liquid (easily accessible). If you have enough cash, you can weather investment “storms” and worry less about touching your portfolio until it recovers.

Speaking of storms, I have had several people ask me if they should get out of the market and go to cash until this “bad market” is over.

My question to them is, “How will you know when it’s over?”

It is tempting to want to reduce risk and have your money in cash, especially now, when the markets are “back to normal” and your investment/retirement account values are likely close to where they were at the start of the year. That is just human. We are prone to emotions, and it feels uncomfortable when our investments go down.

We can soothe ourselves during emotional times with some historical data. Granted, past performance is no guarantee of future results. The markets have proven that no matter what they throw at us, there are always new ways to freak us out. That said, if you get out of the market entirely, especially at market lows, you can negatively impact your returns.

I am not talking about diversification. Diversification is the answer to largely everything, folks. BUT, if you say “hard pass” to stocks entirely, then you may need to be prepared to cut your returns. This chart shows what happens if you miss the 10 best days of the market over a 20-year period. 20 Years! You may want to get out when the market is down, but often the best up market day is preceded shortly by a big down day.

If you were invested in the S&P 500 Index for this entire 20-year period (2005-2024), you would have made a 10.4% average annual return. But if you missed only 10 of the best days during this 20-year period, then your return would be cut nearly in half. The truth is that nobody knows when the best days are going to be. So, if you are thinking, I’m just going to go to cash for a little bit, watch, and then get back in, not only do you have to make two correct decisions (when to get out and when to get back in), you may also significantly reduce your return. A better alternative might be to rebalance your portfolio to be more conservative/less risky or more diversified.

Before you make any changes to your investments, like going to cash, it’s always a great idea to run it by a professional. Let an advisor keep you from acting on emotions and, instead, direct you towards trends and industry experience. As always, discuss your risk tolerance with your advisor, or if you don’t have one, call me!

Source: J.P. Morgan Asset Management using data from Bloomberg. Returns are based on the S&P 500 Total Return Index, an unmanaged, capitalization-weighted index that measures the performance of 500 large capitalization domestic stocks representing all major industries. Indices do not include fees or operating expenses and are not available for actual investment. The hypothetical performance calculations are shown for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to be representative of actual results while investing over the time periods shown. The hypothetical performance calculations are shown gross of fees. If fees were included, returns would be lower. Hypothetical performance returns reflect the reinvestment of all dividends. The hypothetical performance results have certain inherent limitations. Unlike an actual performance record, they do not reflect actual trading, liquidity constraints, fees and other costs. Also, since the trades have not actually been executed, the results may have under- or overcompensated for the impact of certain market factors such as lack of liquidity. Simulated trading programs in general are also subject to the fact that they are designed with the benefit of hindsight. Returns will fluctuate and an investment upon redemption may be worth more or less than its original value. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. An individual cannot invest directly in an index. Data as of December 31, 2024.

Jill is a passionate Senior Wealth Advisor, continually striving to find new ways to exceed her clients' expectations with her depth of knowledge in taxes, estate planning, and personal finance. She seeks to empower her clients to increase their own financial literacy and understanding of wealth management. She’s especially interested in helping younger clients and older single women who may need help with their finances.

Neither Stephens Wealth Management Group (“SWMG”), nor Jill Carr is affiliated with Women 2 Women. There can be no assurance that any investment or non-investmentrelated content referred to directly or indirectly in this article will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the content may no longer be reflective of current opinions or positions. Moreover, you should not assume that any discussion or information contained in this blog serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from SWMG. To the extent that a reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to their individual situation, you are encouraged to consult with the professional advisor of your choosing. SWMG does not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, or relevance of any information prepared by any unaffiliated third party, whether linked to SWMG’s website blog or incorporated herein, and takes no responsibility for any such content. All such information is provided solely for convenience purposes only and all users thereof should be guided accordingly.

Investment advisory services offered through Stephens Consulting LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser doing business as Stephens Wealth Management Group (SWMG). SWMG is not a registered broker/dealer. SWMG investment adviser representatives may only conduct business with residents of the states and/or jurisdictions for which they are properly registered. Therefore, a response to a request for information may be delayed. Please note that not all the investments and services mentioned are available in every state. Investors outside of the United States are subject to securities and tax regulations within their applicable jurisdictions that are not addressed on this site. Contact our office for information and availability.

SWMG is not affiliated with and does not endorse, authorize, or sponsor any respective sponsors. SWMG is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website's users and/or members.

Beloved Books

One Dollar, One Dream, & a Dash of Divine Timing

In Linden, Michigan—population small, charm off the charts—there’s a bookstore with the kind of back story you’d expect to see on the Hallmark Channel!

Meet Olivia Porter. As a seven-year-old, Olivia declared to her mom, “I’m going to own a bookstore one day!”

At that time, the bookstore she frequented resided within a historic grain mill in Argentine Township. In 2017, the bookstore moved to its present address, another historical building that used to be the town fire hall.

At 20 years old, Olivia is not just the owner of  Beloved Books, a local literary haven—she’s a walking, talking reminder that sometimes, when a dream (or let’s be honest, the Lord) taps you on the shoulder, you say yes... even if the offer seems almost too good to be true.

Once upon a time, not so long ago, Olivia was working at the Linden Library and spending most of her off-hours at the town’s beloved indie bookstore. So when she found out it was closing, her heart sank faster than a dropped e-reader in a bubble bath. But life has a funny way of turning the page.

Heather Iodoni, the bookstore’s owner and apparently Olivia’s fairy godmother, knew Olivia’s love of books ran deep. So she made a jaw-dropping offer: the entire shop—for one dollar. Yes, you read that right. One. Dollar. As in, less than a cup of coffee!

Now, most teenagers, rightfully so, might have panicked, questioned their life plan, or, you know, called dad. Olivia did all three. She’d originally

planned to go to business school before launching her business—and her father, bless his pragmatic heart, was understandably skeptical. To complicate things, the building was in transition. A kayak rental business was moving out, and Bridge Street Brew-tique, a trendy new café-meets-boutique, was moving in. Coffee, pastries, shopping? Suddenly this bookstore was starting to look less like a risk... and more like destiny. Despite her quite understandable hesitation, she decided to follow the adage, leap… and the net will appear.

“I prayed over it,” Olivia said. “I’d always imagined working in a space that combined books and coffee, so this felt like everything aligning.” With her family’s support and divine affirmation, Olivia signed on the dotted line. Today,  Beloved Books  is everything the name promises: cozy, heartfelt, and brimming with stories—some bound in paper, others unfolding in real time.

Olivia has since learned a great deal about business from her father, and as of this July, has been operating the bookstore with the help of her siblings for two years. She runs the store with grace, grit, and the kind of passion you can’t fake. I mean, who wouldn’t want to buy a book from the youngest bookstore owner in Michigan?!

They say life doesn’t always follow the script—but sometimes, when you least expect it, your childhood dream walks right into a firehouse-turned-bookstore and hands you the keys.

This story reflects the power of passion and how dreams can become reality. During the conversation with Olivia, I mentioned always envisioning heaven as a bookstore with a coffee shop that welcomed dogs – and here it is, a bit of that heaven, right in my hometown!

Check her out on  FaceBook to learn about book signings, story time or other cool events at Beloved Books!  To sign up for the book of the month and get a surprise in the mail every month call the store!

208 N Bridge St. Linden, MI 48451 (810) 735-0977

Tues–Thurs: 10 AM–4 PM

Friday: 10 AM–4 PM

Saturday: 12 PM–4 PM

Sunday & Monday: Closed Same-day delivery available

Your Local Shopping

“For

Understand the Brand A Family Stitching Purpose Into Fashion

The room pulsed with nervous energy at the Genesee Intermediate School District’s Final Pitch Event. Students shuffled notes, steadied their nerves, and prepared to speak their dreams into existence. As a Youth Entrepreneur Advisor, I was there to support them. But I had no idea that one particular introduction—sparked by a shared first name—would lead me to one of the most inspiring stories I’d ever witness.

Enter Patrice Howard. Young, visionary, and fashion-forward, she and her sister Shiann were already turning heads with their startup, Sister Soles. Their concept was genius in its simplicity: transform discarded shoes and clothing into bold, wearable art. Sustainability wasn’t just a buzzword for them—it was the core of their mission. Soon, their brand evolved into something bigger:  Understand the Brand. This was no longer just about fashion. It was about identity. Expression. Truth.

I found myself drawn in, not just by their designs, but by their ethos. I offered up cast-offs from my own closet—faded fabrics and beloved old pieces. Their answer was always, "Yes!" Before long, I was a dedicated donor, ferrying bags of secondhand clothes to parking lot meet-ups. One time, I had so many bags and boxes that we had to empty them into the trunk of their car. Patrice and her mom laughed and promised to turn the items into something special.

They kept that promise.

Months later, Patrice handed me a gift-wrapped box. Inside was a masterpiece: my favorite old shirt had been reborn as the decorative touches on the back pockets of a sleek pair of black pants and the ornamental trim on the lapel of a white pleather jacket with a handdrawn tiger roaring across the back. I wore the ensemble proudly at events, fielding compliments from strangers who wanted to know where I got such a stunning outfit.

As our relationship deepened, so did my understanding of the Howard family. Patrice began homeschooling and I stepped in as her Youth Entrepreneur Advisor. I saw her dedication firsthand when she launched  Understand the Brand at the Flint Farmers’ Market. From February to May 2025, she and her family showed up month after month with energy, creativity, and style. Her mom Shareka was the tireless seamstress. Shiann, the quiet sketching prodigy. And their father, Michael, the artistic force behind many of their illustrations.

Backstage at their first fashion show I attended, I saw Patrice in her element—focused, driven, all business. “That’s when I’m boss lady,” she laughed. Her family agreed with a chorus of “mm hmm”s.

Where did this powerhouse talent come from? It turns out, fashion runs deep in the Howard DNA. Shareka learned to sew out of necessity, creating prom dresses and play costumes for her kids. One early milestone? A full teddy bear costume crafted from an old blanket. “If I wanted to wear ripped jeans or a crop top,” Patrice said, “I’d just make it myself.”

(Continued...)

Shiann picked up sketching from their dad, whose drawings now grace their designs. Their first big break came with a butterfly dress for a child—it started as a sketch and ended up on a runway. That lit the creative fire. They went from shoes to clothing, from local runways to New York Fashion Week. Paris is next on the horizon.

Everyone plays a part. Dad critiques menswear. Their brother handles photography. Even Shiann’s partner now walks in their shows. The only holdout? Dad, who still refuses the catwalk. (For now.)

Not every moment is glamorous. They struggle with defining their target market and adapting statement pieces into everyday wear. “People love our bold designs,” Patrice explained, “but they don’t know where they’d wear them.” So they’ve started offering casual items like hoodies and key chains, aiming to bridge the gap between art and everyday fashion.

Their shows are masterpieces of creativity: a dress made from tote bags, a hat covered in pull tabs, each element assigned based on the family’s unique strengths. Shiann handles the artwork, Mom the sewing, Patrice the detail work. They collaborate, argue, and brainstorm constantly. And always with love.

Next up: a youth-led fashion show at Genesee Career Institute on December 13, where fashion, cosmetology, culinary arts, and student-run booths will converge to create a celebration of talent and entrepreneurship. They’re also exploring pop-up shops and even starting a YouTube channel to document their process, backstage chaos, and creative triumphs.

Understand the Brand isn’t just a fashion label. It’s a movement. It’s a family. It’s a declaration. They’ve had brushes with fear—finances, idea theft, being underestimated—but their biggest concern? That the youth of Flint are too often overlooked. “It’s a shame kids can hear gunshots,” Patrice said, “but not the sound of opportunity.”

They’re working to change that. They’re dreaming up internship programs, launching nonprofit collaborations, and pushing for visibility.

And in every stitch, sketch, and runway strut, they’re telling the world: this is Flint. This is power. This is what it means to truly Understand the Brand.

Trice is a Meditation Therapist, certified in Mindfulness Meditation and the Neuroscience of Meditation. Email her at Trice@ presencetopupils.com for a free 20-minute consultation. Www.presencetopupils.com.

Ladies from left to right: Shiann Howard, mother-Shareka Howard, and Patrice Howard

your health & wellness journey

Career & Health Can Coexist

LET’S BE HONEST—being a woman with career aspirations can feel like a juggling act. Between deadlines, meetings, family responsibilities, and that ever-growing to-do list, taking care of your health often drops to the bottom.

But what if nourishing your body didn’t have to be one more thing to do—what if it could be simple, quick, and empowering?

As a Health and Wellness Coach, I work with many women who are passionate about their work but quietly battling burnout. And one of the easiest ways to shift that is by rethinking how we eat—starting with meals that work with your schedule, not against it.

HEALTH ISN’T A TRADEOFF

You don’t have to choose between a thriving career and a healthy lifestyle. The key is finding what fits—and when it comes to food, that means skipping the guilt and the all-or-nothing mindset. Instead, embrace simple solutions that are both nourishing and doable. That’s exactly why I created the free guide

Quick & Healthy: 5-Minute Meal Ideas for Busy Women.

Each recipe was designed with the working woman in mind—minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. These are meals you can make in five minutes or less, using ingredients you probably already have on hand.

MY GO-TO: THE VEGGIE-PACKED SCRAMBLE

If I had to pick a favorite from the guide, it’s hands-down the Veggie Scramble. It’s warm, comforting, and endlessly flexible.

Here’s how easy it is:

• Heat a little olive oil in a pan.

• Toss in pre-chopped veggies (I love spinach, peppers, and tomatoes).

• Scramble in two eggs and cook until done.

That’s it. You’ve got protein, fiber, and flavor in one pan—and it’ll keep you satisfied through your next meeting or carpool pickup.

5 Ways to Fuel Your Busy Life Without Burning Out

MORE 5-MINUTE MAGIC

Here’s a peek at a few more ideas from the guide:

• Avocado Toast with Egg –Healthy fats and protein on a slice of hearty whole-grain bread.

• Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, berries, and a sprinkle of granola for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

• Turkey Wrap – Whole-grain tortilla, turkey, greens, and a smear of hummus—easy to eat on the go.

• Protein Smoothie – Blend spinach, banana, nut butter, and almond milk for an energizing pick-me-up.

These are real-life meals for reallife schedules. No judgment. No overwhelm. Just fuel that keeps you showing up as your best self—in and out of the office.

These quick meals aren’t just for breakfast on-the-go—they’re flexible enough for lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying snack. Whether you need fuel between meetings or a fast

dinner after a long day, these ideas meet you where you are.

QUICK

MEAL PREP TIPS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Healthy eating becomes even easier when your kitchen is set up for success. Here are a few of my favorite time-saving strategies:

• Batch Cook Proteins – Grill chicken or boil eggs in advance to toss into meals all week long.

• Pre-Chop Veggies – Spend a few minutes slicing peppers, cucumbers, or carrots and store them in airtight containers.

• Stock Your Staples – Keep essentials like whole-grain bread, plain Greek yogurt, and fresh greens on hand for easy mealbuilding.

HACKS TO SAVE EVEN MORE TIME IN THE KITCHEN

In addition to having go-to meals, these time-saving hacks can make weekday cooking even easier:

1 Invest in Time-Saving Tools

A good blender, air fryer, or food processor can cut your prep time in half and expand your healthy options.

Plan Ahead

Take 10 minutes on the weekend to jot down a simple meal plan. It saves time, reduces stress, and helps you avoid that “what’s for dinner?” scramble.

Double Your Recipes

When you find a meal you love, make double. Leftovers are a busy woman’s best friend—less cooking, more breathing room.

SMALL STEPS, BIG SHIFTS

Making time for your health doesn’t have to mean carving out hours. It starts with one small, sustainable shift. A five-minute meal. A little planning ahead. Giving yourself permission to choose ease instead of stress.

If you’re ready to simplify healthy eating and start feeling better— without overcomplicating your life—I’d love to support you. You can

grab the full Quick & Healthy guide by scanning the QR code below and start making simple meals that nourish both your body and your career goals.

Let’s redefine what balance looks like—because you deserve to feel good while doing great things.

Scan the QR code to get your free copy of Quick & Healthy: 5-Minute Meal Ideas for Busy Women.

Simple meals. Big energy. Less stress.

Debra Loader is a Christian Health and Wellness Coach, a Christian Life Coach, as well as a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). She helps women integrate their Christian faith into their health and wellness journey to find greater motivation and resilience. You can contact Debra at debra@debraloaderlivingwell.com or 810-287-4096.

Book Club Classics Books that Change You

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

by Betty Smith

From the moment she entered the world, Francie Nolan needed to be made of stern stuff, for growing up in the Williamsburg slums of Brooklyn, New York demanded fortitude, precocity, and strength of spirit. Often scorned by neighbors for her family’s erratic and eccentric behavior―such as her father Johnny’s taste for alcohol and Aunt Sissy’s habit of marrying serially without the formality of divorce―no one, least of all Francie, could say that the Nolans’ life lacked drama. By turns overwhelming, heartbreaking, and uplifting, the Nolans’ daily experiences are raw with honesty and tenderly threaded with family connectedness. Betty Smith has, in the pages of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, captured the joys of humble Williamsburg life―from “junk day” on Saturdays, when the children traded their weekly take for pennies, to the special excitement of holidays, bringing cause for celebration and revelry. Smith has created a work of literary art that brilliantly captures a unique time and place as well as deeply resonant moments of universal experience.

Work Smarter, Not Harder An Introduction to Human Design new perspectives

Have you ever felt like you were working so hard, doing all the "right" things, and still not getting anywhere? That was me not too long ago. For most of my life, I struggled with fatigue and frustration— especially in work settings that didn’t seem to fit me. I tried to push through, do everything myself, and live up to society’s version of success. And still, I fell short. I thought something was wrong with me.

Then I discovered Human Design.

What I found was not just another personality framework or productivity tool, but something far more meaningful—a system that speaks to the deeper currents of how we are each uniquely wired to move through the world. It was like being handed a permission slip to finally stop forcing myself into roles that didn’t fit, and instead begin honoring my natural rhythm.

Before I dive into my personal discoveries, it may help to understand the broader landscape. Human Design identifies five main energy types, each with its own strengths, challenges, and way of moving through life and work. Learning about your type is often the first—and most transformational—step.

Human Design blends ancient systems with modern frameworks to offer a practical map of how your unique energy works best. It offers insight into how you naturally operate in the world—how you make decisions, interact with others, and use your energy. And for me, it changed everything.

WHAT ARE THE 5 HUMAN DESIGN TYPES?

Before we explore the five types, it’s important to understand that your Human Design is not something you choose—it’s something you’re born with. Your chart is calculated based on your birth date, time, and location. You can look it up for free at sites like MyBodyGraph.com or GeneticMatrix.com.

In many ways, discovering your type is like receiving your letter to Hogwarts. You’ve always had something special inside you—Human Design simply gives you the language and tools to begin understanding it. It’s not a personality label, but rather a blueprint for how you are uniquely designed to live, work, and make decisions. Think of it as being assigned a role by destiny—one that fits you perfectly once you learn to trust it.

Below, you’ll find a gentle overview of the five Human Design types. As you read through, notice what resonates—you may begin to see yourself (or others) more clearly.

Because I’m a Manifestor, you’ll see a few personal reflections woven into this piece. It’s the design I know most intimately through lived experience, and sharing some of that journey helps bring the framework to life.

1. MANIFESTORS

Natural initiators and trailblazers. Manifestors spark new ideas and bring fresh visions into the world. They are here to get things started—not to carry them through to the end.

2. GENERATORS

The energetic builders of the world. You thrive when doing work you love and have energy to see things through.

3. MANIFESTING GENERATORS

Multi-tasking dynamos. You move fast, pivot quickly, and thrive when following excitement.

4. PROJECTORS

Wise guides and advisors. You see systems, patterns, and people clearly and are here to direct energy, not generate it.

5. REFLECTORS

Mirrors of the community. You reflect the health of the spaces you’re in and thrive in the right environment.

Strengths: Independent, visionary, quick starters

Challenges: Resisting authority, burnout, and struggling when others don’t understand their independent nature

Strengths: Reliable, hard-working, deeply satisfied when aligned

Challenges: Saying yes to the wrong work can lead to frustration and burnout

Strengths: Efficient, fast-paced, creative problem-solvers

Challenges: Skipping steps, impatience, fear of being inconsistent

Strengths: Insightful, efficient, great leaders and coaches

Challenges: Burnout from trying to keep up, needing recognition and invitations

Strengths: Deeply perceptive, unique insight into others

Challenges: Overwhelm, need time to make decisions, can feel directionless without clarity

HOW HUMAN DESIGN HELPED ME RECLAIM MY WORK LIFE

Before discovering Human Design, I lived with the belief that I had to do everything myself—initiate projects, see them through, and keep up with the nonstop pace of productivity our culture seems to demand. That push left me constantly fatigued and frustrated. It wasn’t until I learned I was a Manifestor that it all started to make sense.

As a Manifestor, I’ve learned that rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a vital part of my process. I work in creative bursts, followed by the need to pull back and restore. I used to think something was wrong with me when I couldn’t keep up with others. Now, I understand it’s how I’m built. And that changes everything.

It’s also become clear to me that delegation is not just helpful—it’s crucial. Manifestors aren’t designed to do everything themselves. We’re wired to initiate and then invite in the right support. Releasing the pressure to do it all has allowed me to build work that actually aligns with who I am, instead of constantly battling against myself.

Understanding this has helped me reshape how I relate to work, creativity, and collaboration. Even handing off small, practical tasks now feels like a form of self-respect—freeing me to focus on what only I can do and allowing my energy to flow more easily and effectively.

HUMAN DESIGN & THE BIGGER PICTURE

As a healer and solopreneur, learning to work with my Human Design has been more than a business strategy—it’s been a profound path of coming home to myself. What started as curiosity became a guiding force in how I shape my days, make decisions, and relate to others.

One of the most radical shifts it offered was the realization that I didn’t need to be more like anyone else. I didn’t need to chase someone else’s version of success or mold myself to fit into systems that didn’t feel right. I could build something truer, gentler, and infinitely more powerful—by simply being more me.

That’s the deeper invitation of Human Design: not just to be more productive, but to be more authentic. When you begin living in alignment with your natural energy, you don’t just get more done—you feel more alive. You create, contribute, and connect from a place that is deeply rooted.

This isn’t always an easy path. It asks you to unlearn a lot. To slow down. To listen more closely. But it’s also one of the most rewarding journeys you can take. Because once you begin living in alignment with who you really are, life starts to meet you there.

The truth is, we’re not meant to all be the same. And that’s the gift of Human Design. It helps us remember that our differences

aren’t flaws to fix—they’re part of the intelligence that makes us who we are.

Want to Learn Your Design?

You can look up your Human Design chart for free at sites like MyBodyGraph.com or GeneticMatrix.com. All you need is your birth date, time, and location.

Think of it like getting your Hogwarts letter. You were born with a unique magic—and Human Design helps you understand how to use it.

For me, one of the best tools in learning my design has been simply having conversations with ChatGPT. I use it to ask questions about my chart, describe real experiences, and get insight. Whether you use books, coaches, or tools like this one— Human Design is a powerful ally.

Your work life isn’t meant to look like anyone else’s. Whether you’re an initiator, builder, guide, or mirror, there is a way of working that fits you. Human Design is a beautiful place to begin finding it.

Joy Dettling of Ignite Life specializes in helping individuals release unseen stuck stress patterns and embody their true potential. To find out more, visit ignitelife.net or contact joy@ignitelife.net.

real life meditation Close YourEyes

I’ve been having a temper tantrum lately. I haven’t been able to get my way. The harder I try, the more frustrated I become. When I quiet my mind to sit in meditation, I can feel the trembling of my nervous system, shaking like a rabbit that has just escaped its predator. Yet, I am the predator. Like they say in the Eagle’s song Already Gone: “So oftentimes it happens that we live our lives in chains and we never even know we have the key.”

I cannot tell you how many times I have said in a Guided Meditation, or to one of my Meditation Therapy clients, “What we resist, persists.”

I know this, and it’s not like I hadn’t thought about it all these months of struggle, yet I haven’t been able to

find that ever-elusive key the Eagles speak of.

I meditate to tune into God’s guidance for my life. In 2011, God clearly told me to teach mindfulness to children. I didn’t even know what mindfulness was.

~Mindfulness is present moment awareness, a skill that is sharpened by having a meditation practice.~

It ended up being the biggest blessing of my life for more reasons than I can include in this article, but suffice it to say my meditation and mindfulness practices have helped with every challenge in my life since my practice started, which is why I include a “Dear Miss Mindfulness”

column in our newsletter each month.

Yet, lately, I’ve been stomping my feet when things don’t go my way…

I wrote the above excerpt in February of this year. Looking back now, I realize God doesn’t promise an easy journey, but it is easier when we let go of our attachments to how we think things should go.

In today’s new age reality, yogis and gurus—a group I am often placed in—espouse the wisdom that we attract and even create our reality. My understanding of human behavior, including subconscious programming and neuroscience, substantiates this belief, yet why would I nail myself to a cross?

In February, I thought, “I’ve endeared myself to a false narrative, to believe I’m attracting and creating my circumstances.” I no longer wanted to take responsibility for my circumstances and the creation of the circumstances. I fought long and hard to drop any semblance of being a victim, yet I wanted to recline in that easy chair of victim hood again.

But it’s not a false narrative. My resistance was creating a dam, blocking the flow for my life. I thought I was keeping a commitment to myself but really I was being stubborn. I needed to change lanes.

When I first started learning yoga, I was intently focused on matching the poses of my instructor. In those early

days of my yoga practice, the instructors more often than not would guide the participants' bodies into the right position, including making hands-on adjustments. As time went on, I noticed less and less of this specific instruction. Instead, the instructors encourage us to “listen” to our bodies, while challenging ourselves to move beyond what’s comfortable yet to be careful to not push too far and hurt ourselves.

Close your eyes, they would say.

Close my eyes? How will I know what a Svarga Dvidasana: (Bird of Paradise Pose) is. It didn’t matter. I learned it’s more important to do what my body needs than to contort myself into a version of someone else.

After all, I’d been doing that all my life, being who people need me to be. Certainly, over the years it had become less and less of a heavy cloak I wore, as if I was peeling off the layers one season at a time.

Well now it’s the season for the full reveal. As I took off the last garment and stepped into a new role working for this magazine, I’ve found a place where who I am is completely welcome and in fact, encouraged.

The old wardrobe is no longer needed. It’s time to adorn myself in the playful attire that I wrote about in this issue in the article titled “Understand the Brand: A Family Stitching Purpose Into Fashion”.

God’s winking too, with one serendipitous occurrence after another.

I dare you to try it. Close your eyes. Tune into your body to hear its whisper before it becomes a shout. It’s the key.

Trice is a Meditation Therapist, certified in Mindfulness Meditation and the Neuroscience of Meditation. Email her at Trice@presencetopupils.com for a free 20-minute consultation. Www. presencetopupils.com.

shades of faith

Some may wonder how and why natural disasters happen. Science gives us reasons. Science tells us that during what is called “Hurricane Season”, more than any other time of the year, we are likely to see a storm.

What I found to be most interesting is that during the hurricane season the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicts up to fourteen storms. Seven of those fourteen storms are expected to become active. Three of those seven active storms are expected to cause significant damage and be classified “major storms”. When a meteorologist predicts there will be a storm, they give the storm a name and prepare for its arrival.

Even though they are experts on the hurricane season and have put much time and effort into studying the storms and making their projections and predictions, there is one thing that they still cannot do.

They cannot stop the storm from happening.

The storm is a part of the season. The storm is going to happen.

These storms are much like our lives.

Just like a meteorologist, we may make our projections and predictions, but we can't stop the storms of life from

happening. And this is usually where we start to get into our feelings. because we don’t believe storms should happen to us. We do what we’re supposed to do. We don’t bother anybody and we are walking our best Christian walk and talk.

But I need you to understand that a storm doesn’t care.

A storm doesn’t care how long you’ve been saved or what church you go to, it's still going to happen. A storm does care that you never miss a day of work and that you’re nice to people that aren’t always nice to you. It’s still going to come. Storms don’t discriminate. They happen to the best of us.

We have to remove our focus from trying to stop a storm from happening and learn how to survive it when it comes.

Here’s what you gotta do to survive:

1. GET IN THE BOAT

There’s a passage in the Bible where Jesus gave His disciples the instruction to “cross to the other side of the lake”. After he says this, the disciples get into the boat with him so that they may cross to the other side. As soon as they got into the boat and made an attempt to cross over, the storm began.

If they knew ahead of time that a storm was going to happen after they got into the boat and started across, most of them (if not all) probably would not have gotten into the boat at all. That’s a part of our human nature. We tend to shy away from things that are scary and or challenging. We go into a self-preservation mode and stick to what is easy, comfortable and seemingly safe.

But these disciples obeyed God’s instruction to get into the boat and cross over to the other side. People of Christ, Jesus’ instructions led them into a storm. Obedience can lead you into a storm.

This is why we can’t always look at storms as an “attack” or a negative thing. Sometimes the storm is part of the assignment. The storms aren't always a result of something you did wrong. Sometimes you go through storms because of what you’re doing “right”.

2. EXERCISE GREAT FAITH.

The disciples had just watched Jesus perform miracles before they got into the boat with him. They literally walked with him and witnessed his power. So those were the moments that should have confirmed and solidified their faith. If they saw how he healed a man of leprosy and caused the lame to walk, there was no reason to believe that he couldn’t

How to Survive a Storm

protect them in the storm. It shows they had firsthand experience with God but they were still lacking faith.

You have history with God. You have seen firsthand the things that he has done in your life in seasons before. You have witnessed firsthand how God has healed you and provided for you. Did you forget how he saved you? Did you forget that he brought you out of the last thing that you thought you would never make it through? So why now, are you wavering in your faith?

3. REMEMBER THAT YOU WILL MAKE IT THROUGH!

You will get through this storm. Trouble won’t last always.

At the beginning of the passage, before they even encountered the storm, Jesus started with the end in mind. He said, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” He had a plan from the beginning to make it all the way through.

He didn’t say, “Let’s go halfway and see if we can make it.” He was determined to make it through no matter what. Nothing can stop God’s plan.

This is a fixed fight—the battle is already won. You already have the victory. Take on the attitude and the mindset of victory.

Your biggest storm will become your greatest testimony. You will look back at this moment and remember the way that God carried you through. You will look back and remember how God protected you. You will look back and rejoice about how you survived what should have made you lose your mind.

When this storm is over, your life will never be the same. I dare you to start practicing your testimony. You should be praising God as if it’s already happened. Because you’re coming through.

The storm is passing over.

Brittany Willingham, a pastor in Flint, has an undeniable call to serve women, which inspired her to found "Dear Sis Ministries". Dear Sis ministers to and mentors over 3K women in the areas of identity, purpose, womanhood, singleness and sisterhood. Brittany has authored two books: "Dear Single Sis" and "Dear Sis: 101" as devotional tools for women to survive their journey and strengthen their walk with God.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ Dearsisministries

35 As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” 36 So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed).

37 But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.

38 Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?”

39 When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. 40 Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

41 The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!”

~Mark 4:36-41

What’s Your Life Lesson of the Day?

“Mrs. Stonerock, What’s your Life Lesson of the day?” That was a common question that I was asked when I served as a Substitute Teacher in Goodrich Area Schools. I had homeschooled my own children for 15 years and I was looking for a way to keep an eye on my own kids as I transitioned them into our public school system. I ended up teaching Kindergarten through 12th grade for nearly 8 years. I loved teaching the kids. I still have kids come up to me, remembering the stone and the “fake” rock that I brought in to help them remember the name “stone” and “rock.” There were many surprised faces on the children when I asked them to catch my VERY REAL LOOKING rock, only to discover that it was really just made of foam. Recently, a former student declared, “I remember when you hit me right in the middle of my forehead with that rock.”

Among my fellow teachers, I was also known as the “bag lady.” Why? Well, I always brought in a black garbage bag that had a different type of real, stuffed animal in it. I started the class by letting the kids know that there was an animal in the bag and if they wanted to learn about it and see the animal, they must be on their best behavior. The students would manage the behavior of their fellow students for me. It was standard to have one student insist to another student, “Be quiet! I must know what’s in that bag.” I brought stuffed deer, bear, porcupines, minks, zebra hides, and even, a recently captured flying squirrel that my husband had obtained from our humane, animal removal company called, BATS and TRAPS. I would teach the students facts about the animals and then let them touch the fur or hide.

In addition to teaching academics, I always felt very strongly about also teaching real life lessons to the students. Many times, I would start my classes in middle school and high school with a brief life lesson. My lessons ranged from relational and spiritual to financial advice. I have helped them calculate the miles to school and back and the cost of gas, so that they could appreciate this investment by their parents. It was especially surprising to the school of choice students, whose parents traveled a fair distance to enroll them in Goodrich Schools. I taught them how to calculate 10%,15% and 20% so that they knew what type of services they should tip as young adults and how much they should tip. I remember teaching a cultural life lesson to a Middle School class during the week of Martin Luther King Day. I have never seen this before, in any class, but one by one each student stood up and gave me a standing ovation as I taught “Skin color was like comparing hair and eye color. It was just another facet that made us different from one another. We are all equal people, deserving of respect, we are just different in looks, history and personality and that’s what makes life interesting and fun.”

One of my favorite lessons was on relationships. I would pass on what my former Calvin University professor, Dr. Quentin Schultze, shared with me. “All of life boils down to your relationships: relationships with your family, friends, God and others.” Yep! I talked about God in our public school. I would encourage the students that “Our time and effort should be directed to growing those relationships and healing any broken relationships.” I had one student tell me that the “relationship” life lesson changed her life and led her to heal her relationship with her father.

I often shared many of my own financial lessons. I regret buying the one new car that I bought right out of college. Oh! The money that I would have saved had I just purchased a slightly used car. Now, every car for my family or for our company has been a used car or truck. I am also grateful that I learned the lesson about tithing, and I chose to give 10% of every gross paycheck back to God through my church and other ministries. I literally saw my own commissioned income grow each year after I decided to give back such a small portion of the money that I believed was given to me by God. Another financial lesson that I applied to my own life and shared with students came from my father-in-law, Gary. He always taught his kids to “Never go in debt over a depreciating item.” That means, do not take out a loan for something that loses value after you purchase it. Those items include cars, boats, makeup, clothes, toys, etc. So, what should you take out a loan for? In general, a home, some business expenses and an education are examples of appreciating items that will grow in value and help you make money in the future.

I am sure there are many more life lessons that I could share, but I hope that you learned one or two that you could apply to improve and help your own life. I know that you who are reading this article have plenty of life lessons of your own. I encourage you to start sharing them with the people that you know.

It is always better to learn a lesson from someone else than to learn the hard way through mistakes of your own. That’s the final “Life Lesson” from Mrs. Stonerock.

Kelly Stonerock was raised in Clarkston. She has been a resident of Goodrich for 29 years. She is presently the CEO of BatsAndTraps.com, an animal removal company that services Genesee County and it’s surrounding communities. Kelly has five children of her own and she raised three other children. She was featured on ABC’s television show, “Wife Swap” in 2005. Her episode is available on Hulu, Season 2: Episode 11.

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real life meditation Close YourEyes

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