The Mother in the Mirror
Katrina Marsh
The POWER of Body Image on Personal Branding
DEFYING AGEISM AND EMBRACING SELF-LOVE My Journey as a 22 Year Old Female Business Owner
7 Ways Public Speaking Can Improve Your Credibility
THE ART OF CROWDFUNDING
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Read stories of inspiring women, practical and valuable information from various experts, and insights from experienced entrepreneurs, and accomplished leaders, that will help you rise and thrive in your career, personal life, and business.
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Welcome to June's Issue of the Women Thrive Magazine In this magazine issue, we are talking about body diversity, positive body image and ageism.
So many magazines for women focus much on women's looks and being flawless, defying our natural process of ageingthus giving women further insecurity that we should fit into society's expectations and women are known to spend thousands to meet these demands to fit in and be accepted.
The reality is, we all have different bodies and physical appearances that we should be proud of - regardless of the size or shape of us.
Can we learn to fall in love with our curves or slender shapes and focus on what really matters in life and that is how you feel on the inside not the outside?
Also, the topic of ageism has come up regularly in our events at Women Thrive so in this issue we wanted to feature stories of women of all ages who are defying the 'societal norms' and following their dreams fearlessly no matter what season of their life they are in.
We hope that these stories inspire you as a reader to be bold and fearless in pursuit of your dream
Raimonda Jankunaite Founder & Editor-In-Chief
Credits Raimonda Jankunaite / Founder & Editor-in-Chief Olivia Marocco / Designer J Rachel West / Content Editor Photographer / @bazphotoman
"In this world, there is so much more that unites us than separates us, and here you can always find support, community and sisterhood. "
P03 P04 P06 P08 P10 P12 P14 P18 P20
Editor's Welcome Note
Content
Defying Ageism and Embracing Self-Love
The Power of Body Image on Personal Branding
7 Ways Public Speaking Can Improve Your Credibility
Women Thrive Speaker's Academy
My Journey as a 22-Year-Old Female Business Owner
Women Thrive Summit Replay & Showcase Event
How the Akashic Records Can Elevate Your Business
My Journey as a 22-Year-Old Female Business Owner / P14
Tina K Kailea
Defying Ageism and Embracing Self-Love / P06
J.Rachel West
The Power of Body Image on Personal Branding / P08
You Are Entitled to Communicate Your Needs
Fabulous Funding: The Art of Crowdfunding
Is Women Leaving Leadership Positions in Droves a Bad Thing?
Women In Business Community
Power in Presence
The Mother in the Mirror
Tina Turner Tribute
ow the Akashic Records Can evate Your Business / P20
Fabulous Funding: The Art of Crowdfunding / 24
"In a world that constantly tells you to erase the signs of time, defy the noise, and cultivate radical self-love."
Katrina Marsh
Aging – we all get old, but why has it become such a tiring quest for us to defy the signs of advancing age at literally any cost?
In today's world, the media bombards us with messages that promote a narrow, youthful ideal of beauty, leaving older women feeling invisible and marginalized The negative stigma attached to aging can often make us feel ashamed of our bodies and our natural aging process
Let’s get honest Older women are rarely celebrated, unless you’re Helen Mirren or Judy Dench, of course The life experience we gain, our wisdom, and our eldership are not revered anymore and, like some unwritten rule, we’re meant to be quiet and fade into the background without a fuss Throughout the ages, we were labelled hags and crones - even the term ‘old women’ can almost feel like an insult to some and has us running for the cosmetics counter.
Make no mistake, ageing isn’t for the fainthearted. As a ‘woman of a certain’ age myself, a year shy of turning fifty, I am not immune to my body surrendering and I do curse when I turn shades of crimson during yet another hot menopausal flash, drenched in sweat at 2am. My ‘Eureka’ moment came one summer morning when I noticed that the waffle weave pattern imprinted on my thighs by my bathrobe was still there an hour later.
I belly laughed out loud and I realised that there isn’t much I can do about it I made the conscious decision to reframe my own narrative around my age and just go with it Yep. I learned to embrace it and love myself hard each day. You can change your frame of mind. Simple? No, but so worth it.
Transitioning into menopause, flashes, and other choice symptoms aside, aging gives you freedom. You are more grounded in who you are, you have more time to yourself as kids get older or have left home and you’re not at the whim of the hormonal cycles during your childbearing years. See this time as a sacred rite of passage. A time to challenge yourself to only do what you really want and feel good in your body. Have the courage to let the rest peel away. Stop ‘should-ing’ on yourself. It’s liberating, I promise.
Have you been hiding as you got older? Suppressing or denying yourself joy and pleasure? It's time to challenge your status quo, redefine yourself, and your beauty, and break free from the shackles, self-imposed or otherwise. I want you to give yourself permission to become fully embodied, oozing sensuality like warm caramel, oh-so confident, flirting with life, and giving zero cahoots of what anyone says about your aging glory.
Dive into the transformative power of embracing your age, redefining beauty standards, and encouraging authenticity, diversity, and self-love.
Every line, every wrinkle, every moment lived is a testament to your strength and resilience. Embrace your journey unapologetically. Let the world bear witness to the incredible story etched on your face. Your experiences have shaped you into the remarkable woman you are today. Own it. Flaunt it. Inspire others with your unwavering authenticity.
Society may try to confine you to its standards, but you have the power to rewrite the rules Break free from the suffocating grip of ageism by smashing through its glass ceiling Pursue your passions relentlessly, chase dreams that set your soul ablaze Defy anyone who dares to question your abilities With every step and every achievement, you redefine what it means to be a woman of substance and strength.
Be a Trailblazer: Champion Change, Ignite a Revolution
You are a catalyst for change Take up fierce leadership and become a voice of empowerment Speak out and challenge societal norms, dismantle stereotypes, and ignite a revolution of inclusivity and respect Your actions today pave the way for future generations Let's leave no doubt that age is merely a number
Illuminate Your Inner Spark
In a world that constantly tells you to erase the signs of time, defy the noise, and cultivate radical self-love Nourish your soul with acts of kindness, bathe in self-care rituals, and wrap yourself in affirmations that celebrate your unique beauty Remember, your worth transcends societal expectations Let your confidence ignite a fire within others to embrace their own undeniable brilliance
Unleash the Power of Connection
United we stand, divided we fall. Embrace the collective power of women across generations. Forge deep bonds, celebrate each other's victories, and hold one another up when the world tries to tear us down. Share your wisdom, listen to the stories of others, and let the interweaving tapestry of our experiences create a force that can move mountains. In sisterhood, we find strength, resilience, and the courage to rewrite history.
Here’s to silver-haired women everywhere! We are a force to be reckoned with, women of resilience, beauty, and boundless strength. Our age is a testament to our journey. Let’s be beacons of empowerment and agents of transformation with a glow that radiates from deep within. Wrinkles and all.
Tina K Kailea is an unapologetic wild woman, author, speaker, and possibility agent She is an embodiment coach, a rebel, and fiercely devoted to helping female leaders break up with limiting beliefs, reclaim their voice and ditch their not-good-enoughness She is the founder and CEO of The Femmepreneur Pathfinder and she’s on a mission to inspire women to sign their own permission slips. To ask for what they truly desire, say NO with confidence, and embrace putting themselves first without feeling guilty.
the femmepreneur femmepreneurpathfinder com
Here are five empowering tips to help you break free and embrace your journey of liberation:
by J. Rachel West
There are so many reasons why all women in business should have a personal brand, especially when so often our business and personal brand collaborate and link together. So why do we not see more women showing up and embracing their personal brand? I believe that it relates back to poor body image.
When I first started out as a business owner, I dreaded taking professional pictures. I would look at the pictures and could only see what I thought were physical flaws. ‘Can’t post this picture because my double chin is out.’ ‘Wow, I wish the photographer would have told me to suck it in.’ ‘Is this really what I look like?’ ‘I need to start taking calls while walking.’
In today’s digital age, personal branding has become a crucial aspect of professional success No matter what career you’re in, your personal brand can make a significant impact on your future Having a strong personal brand helps you establish credibility in your industry by sharing your expertise, insights, and experiences It also increases your visibility by helping you stand out in a crowded market Personal brands also build trust with your audience, open up new opportunities, help you differentiate yourself, and provide a strong sense of direction
The thoughts would spiral and my emotions would take over The negative thoughts would come in and I would think, ‘I’m not thin enough ’ Looking back, I laugh at this thoughtthat my body reflects how good a marketer I am But this is what having a poor body image will do; creep into your thoughts and stop you from showing up as your true self Unfortunately, many people struggle with negative body image, which can have a profound impact on their personal branding
When you feel good about your body, you’re more likely to project confidence in your professional life This helps you build stronger relationships, make better decisions, and pursue your goals with more determination But, whether we like it or not, people often judge us based on our appearance which can impact how others do business with us One way I avoid this is to show up how I want people to perceive me
This relates back to how I show up authentically My personal brand represents me I want to be my most authentic self so that when clients get on calls with me it is the same person they’ve come to know online
"My personal brand represents me. "
You are unique There is no one else in the world like you Even if you’re a twin, you two have different personalities, interests, likes and dislikes, and so on Your body is part of what makes you unique and that’s something to celebrate! Instead of focusing on our flaws, let’s focus on what makes us stand out like our sense of humor or how creative we are Highlighting your unique qualities can help you create an even more authentic personal brand
This one is easier said than done, but start to practice self-compassion towards your body Instead of criticizing yourself, treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would a friend And when negative thoughts arise, challenge them with rational and positive thinking Turn ‘I hate my legs’ to ‘My legs help me get from one point to another Thank you, legs ’ Focus on your strengths and qualities and remind yourself that you are worthy of love and respect, even from yourself
We can all get into the cycle of focusing on our body’s appearance, especially when it relates to personal branding, but what if you changed your focus to what your body can do? Celebrate your body’s abilities and accomplishments, whether it’s running a marathon, lifting your baby, or simply getting out of bed Your body is so much more than an image
It’s time we stop looking at social media and mainstream media for beauty standards. I want to see the real you. I want to see the business owner who was up until 3 am packing and shipping products only to have an 8 am meeting the next day, show up authentically. I want to see that personal brand. I want to surround myself with people who celebrate and support one another rather than bring each other down.
Body image can have a profound impact on personal branding By embracing who you are, you can leverage your body image for success in your personal branding Remember, building a strong personal brand starts with accepting and loving yourself for who you are right now You are worthy of love Happy Branding!
J Rachel West is a passionate marketing & branding devotee She is the Marketing Executive for Women Thrive Media as well as the Founder of her own agency, JRW Consulting LLC. Her passion is helping others, whether in their business or their life and when she isn’t at her desk you can find her traveling the world
jrwconsultingllc jrwconsulting org
"Instead of focusing on our flaws, let’s focus on what makes us stand out."
"Start to practice self-compassion towards your body."by Raimonda Jan
Here are just some of the ways to improve your credibility.
1. It helps you demonstrate your expertise.
When you are prepared as a speaker and deliver an informative speech, you demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in your field, enhancing your credibility In doing so, you evoke trust so your audience will respect your opinions and ideas and therefore be more willing to work with you.
2. It helps you build trust. One of the key components of public speaking is sharing your story, which feels relatable to the audience and therefore creates a trust factor. This could be a story of your experience, overcoming similar challenges or adversity as your audience, or achieving success Being on stage gives you a unique opportunity to connect with the audience on a much deeper level By being honest, transparent, and engaging, you can establish a strong connection with your audience and create a sense of rapport and trust that lasts.
A successful public speaker can enhance their reputation as a leader, expert, or influencer in their field When perceived as a confident and capable speaker, you can boost your personal brand, increase your visibility, and improve your credibility in your industry, thus becoming a more sought-after expert, coach, trainer, or speaker for other events.
Public speaking requires strong communication skills, including clarity, persuasion, and the ability to connect with your audience. When you demonstrate these skills in your speeches, you can enhance your credibility as a communicator and improve your ability to influence and inspire others This is such an important element in helping you build a successful business, a strong following of people, and long-term trust with enhanced credibility.
If you are an expert in your field, a coach, trainer, mentor, or aspiring professional trainer, public speaking is one of the key skills that will be
Public speaking can also help you establish connections and build relationships with others in your industry This can increase your visibility and exposure and help you establish yourself as a leader and authority figure in your niche, thus improving your credibility and helping you grow your business.
Effective public speaking can help you build a personal brand that is memorable and associated with your area of expertise. This helps make your ideas spread and your story impact more people. If you are an expert in your field, having a personal brand that tells a story is more important than ever before to build long-lasting effects with the audience
" You can enhance your credibility as a communicator and improve your ability to influence and inspire others."Raimonda Jankunaite is the founder and host of Women Thrive Media & the annual Women Thrive Summit, which is hosted every year to mark Women’s History Month to empower women to thrive. Every year, we celebrate and highlight the achievements of women globally womenthrivesummit womenthrivesummit com Raimonda Jan
HAS PUBLIC SPEAKING BEEN ON YOUR AGENDA, BUT YOU HAVE NOT YET TAKEN THE LEAP TO TURN YOUR STORY AND YOUR PASSION INTO AN IMPACT-DRIVEN SIGNATURE TALK?
Did you know that public speaking can help you reach a whole new audience that you have never reached before, build your expert status in your industry, attract better clients, and have more opportunities and media exposure?
With the power of public speaking your name will be mentioned in rooms that your feet have not stepped into yet Would you like to become a more powerful speaker and reach the ears, hearts, and souls of people worldwide?
The Women Thrive Speaker's Academy is here to help you:
Build the confidence and mindset of an international speaker
Prepare your speaker assets that will help you land more speaking opportunities
Position yourself as the expert in your niche to become a sought-after speaker
Craft your signature talk for any stage
Develop your voice and storytelling skills to captivate your audience and inspire them into action
Show you how to make money on stages as a paid speaker
When you speak on stages you are seen as an expert in your industry and build instant ‘knowlike-trust’ factor faster than anything else
Through public speaking you can sell your books, coaching programs or courses. In fact, many trained speakers also can get paid for their time on stage. Share your story, make an impact and make more money
Weekly two-hour intensive training with master trainer Raimonda Jan and our guest experts on how to start or elevate your speaker career (worth £6,000)
*
Practice and feedback to help you prepare yourself for speaking opportunities, position yourself as an expert, gain clarity around your message and your signature talks
* Weekly accountability and training to help you secure speaking opportunities and feedback on your talks
* Training, templates & resources to help you grow (worth £1900)
Monthly speaking events via our network & exposure to our network of over 600k followers (worth £1500)
* Private Community where you can practice your talks and get weekly feedback to tweak your content (worth £700)
* Connections to event organisers and speaking opportunities
When you are seen speaking on international stages you instantly open new doors to new opportunities
Through events, you can connect with other thought leaders, entrepreneurs and people who will pave the way to new possibilities.
Public speaking opens new
womenthrivesummit.com/speaker-academy
by Katrina Marsh
When I decided to open my own brick-and-mortar yoga studio at the age of 20, and my media management business at the age of 21, I knew I was embarking on a difficult journey The dream was prominent, and the drive was there, but the confidence was something to be built on There were so many decisions to be made; what kinds of services to offer, what to price them at, and how to market, manage, and expand, to name a few Turning to those around me for inspiration and advice was invaluable for the decisions I had to make along the way for my business
However, this began to shed some doubt onto my outlook, as many had been building their businesses for years and had large networks, extensive education, and business experience. Looking back, it is clear how this journey would become a testament to the importance of embracing who I am, a now 22-year-old, female business owner with a lets-do-it attitude.
Phtoto credit: James.Young.Photos
Being a young entrepreneur came with its fair share of challenges aside from the ones I cast upon myself There were some that doubted my abilities and questioned whether I had the experience or knowledge to succeed in the competitive world of business It was disheartening to face skepticism solely because of my age, and I went as far as hiding or avoiding the subject altogether, or even creating a ‘phantom business owner’ that would ‘get back to you soon’ in some circumstances
My main drive behind any project has always been the human connection Expanding my network, meeting others, and genuinely connecting with authenticity is what I thrive off of Except, this is hard to do when you feel you have to hide your authentic self I had somehow created this constant internal battle for what the best practices should be for establishing myself in my field and having my businesses recognized as legitimate and respected entities
I finally made the conscious decision to start showing up as my authentic self I realized that my age and unique perspective were strengths rather than weaknesses. Instead of trying to conform to traditional norms or mimic the approaches of older entrepreneurs, I focused on leveraging my passion, enthusiasm, and fresh ideas to set my yoga studio and media management business apart. >>
"It was disheartening to face skepticism solely because of my age."
"There were moments when doubts crept back in when it would have been tempting to let my age become an excuse or a barrier."
The work that it took to physically build, run, and staff my businesses is the same level of work that I put into them every day. It requires unwavering dedication and a commitment to consistent hard work. There were moments when doubts crept back in, when it would have been tempting to let my age become an excuse or a barrier. However, I refused to let that define me. I knew that my passions and my desire for improvement as well as human connection is stronger than any self-doubt.
As I poured my heart and soul into my businesses, the authenticity I brought to my work started to resonate with others Clients were drawn to the genuine experiences I offered, and their support and loyalty began to build
It was not just clients who took notice Along the way, I met other incredible entrepreneurs and earned partnerships with brands such as lululemon and Pressed Juice Local business owners and well-established brands within the industry began to recognize the value of what I was doing They saw the dedication, the consistent hard work, and the impact I was making Age gradually became irrelevant as my expertise and passion spoke for themselves magandamanagement
This journey has shown me that age should never be a deterrent to pursuing our dreams. When we wholeheartedly embrace who we are, regardless of our age, we bring something unique and valuable to the table. If you find yourself in a similar position, whether you are in your twenties, fifties, or beyond, remember that your voice and perspective matter. Trust your instincts, believe in your abilities, and let your originality shine through
Don't be afraid to challenge the status quo or bring fresh ideas to the forefront Success knows no age, and through your own determination, you can let your work earn the respect and recognition that you deserve
So, to all the young entrepreneurs, dreamers, and planners, I encourage you to become the do-ers of your community Start taking the steps towards making your passion into your livelihood today Embrace who you are and let your authenticity be your superpower Work tirelessly at your passions, and watch as you pave the way for your own fulfilling journey
Katrina Marsh Katrina Marsh is the Founder of Busy Bee Yoga and Co-Founder of Maganda Media Management She was recently announced as a co-author for the Women Thrive Book Vol 2
com
"Trust yourinstincts, believe in your abilities, and let youroriginality shine through."
Our global event is open for speaking opportunities to business owners, entrepreneurs, coaches, professional speakers, authors and experts of diverse experiences and areas of expertise. The most common areas we usually cover during the virtual Women Thrive Summit are:
Business Skills:
– Marketing / Social Media
– Finance / Sales
– Business Growth
Public Speaking / PR
Personal Development:
– Mindset & Confidence
– Relationships
– Inner / Trauma Healing
Spirituality
Empowerment:
– Self Empowerment
– Leadership
– Diversity and Inclusion
Impact Work
At Women Thrive Media we take pride in our events production and have been hosting inperson and virtual events since 2017. Our mission is to empower women to rise and thrive in business and life and build a global stage for women in business, leadership and entrepreneurship to share their stories.
New SPEAKER opportunities are OPEN for the largest global virtual annual women’s empowerment summit and conference of the year.
This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with globally inspiring and empowering women from all walks of life. Women who are on a mission to make a global impact for the prosperity of all women, so together we can rise and thrive. The showcase will be valued packed and a wonderful way for you to network with like-minded business owners, and of course, meet some of the 2024 Women Thrive Summit Speakers! We hope to see you there
The opportunity to interact and thrive with women leaders, speakers, and entrepreneurs, and uplift one another.
A virtual, easily accessible global event covering all time zones. Thrive with women experts and leaders from around the world
Let’s talk about The Akashic Records first of all, before we dive into the second part of the question and reveal the magick there.
So what are The Akashic Records? As an Akashic Records channel, intuitive, and healer, I understand them as being an ancient energetic realm connected to the 5th dimension (and above) that hold information on every single Soul’s deeds, action, thoughts, and feelings since that Soul’s creation. Usually depicted as a library, each book represents a Soul's lifetime of wisdom, gifts, trauma, and karmic blocks.
The Akashic Records are usually used to release the root cause of a repetitive karmic pattern, trauma, outdated agreements, conditioning, or a belief This can be mindblowing especially when you can feel like you’re trapped in a pattern that has been repeating for years!
But that’s not all The Akashic Records are also used to unlock dormant Soul gifts, and past-life wisdom, to gain guidance, and new perspectives and to influence your future
They are an immensely powerful tool for personal growth, spiritual development, and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and the world and can be accessed in a variety of ways to activate positive breakthroughs and change The main tool you need to access your Akashic Records is your intention, followed by curiosity, self-trust, and belief
They’re as old as the hills! The Akashic Records are NOT a new-age concept, believe you me These records are mentioned in many old scriptures around the world including the Bible They are also known as The Akash, The Book Of Life, and The Book Of Souls Akashic is a Sanskrit word and means ‘Ether, Sky or Atmosphere’, referring to the invisible realm they appear as
Edgar Casey, affectionately known as a pioneer of the Akashic Records, emerged as a prominent figure in popularising this mystical realm during the 1920s Revered as the Sleeping Prophet, he captivated audiences through public demonstrations where he immersed himself in a profound trance-like state In these extraordinary sessions, he channeled profound wisdom and guidance for countless individuals
With his unwavering dedication, Casey conducted thousands of readings, playing a pivotal role in elevating awareness and understanding of the spiritual gifts inherent in the Akashic Records
I have been working with mine for the last six years, and have used them to literally rewrite my reality, which included letting go of a 30-year, corporate career and setting up my own online spiritual business
"The main tool you need is your intention, followed by curiosity, self-trust, and belief."
Now you know a little more about The Akashic Records, can they be used for business?
Before I answer that I want to cover the energetics piece! Have you heard the phrase, “You are your business?”
As an entrepreneur, you are inherently connected to your business through your energy, creativity, determination, vision, resilience, wisdom, etc So when you feel balanced and fulfilled in life, your relationships, with your health and money flow, will also show up in your business You may see this as new clients contacting you, high-value packages being sold, people reaching out to collaborate, new ideas and inspiration, being nominated for awards, having increased clarity on your vision, and/or fully trusting your decisions
Likewise, when you experience challenges in your relationships, have constant health issues, or are not able to make time for yourself, this is also reflected back in your business, usually with stop/start client flow, system or tech breakdowns, clients suddenly not paying or going AWOL, suddenly being confused on your next steps, filled with self-doubt and insecurity
So, it is key to understand that what is going on in your inner world will reflect in your outer, and that will create positive and negative impacts both in your life and in your business
its own Akashic Records By utilising both your personal and business Akashic Records, you can effectively identify and release limiting beliefs, conditioning, past traumas, and even past-life agreements. This process supports you in initiating a profound healing journey that not only brings alignment to your personal life but also resonates throughout your business too.
Can the Akashic Records be utilised for business purposes?
Absolutely! In fact, I would consider it an essential component for achieving sustained success. By integrating the wisdom and guidance from the Akashic Records into your life and business routines, you can unlock powerful insights and make informed decisions that align with your highest potential.
To delve deeper into how you can use your Akashic Records for both personal and business growth, I invite you to connect with me at https://marinabeech.co.uk/. Together, we can explore how the Akashic Records can support your journey towards a harmonious and prosperous life and business.
Marina Beech is The Soul Alchemist, a Spiritual Intuitive, Teacher, Author and founder of The Akashic Code Training Academy, who uses the Akashic Records and pendulum to support her clients discover their divine gifts and Soul identity. When we know who we are at a Soul level we can realign our choices to create a more abundant life filled with joy, flow, and possibility.
marina thesoulalchemist marinabeech co ukYour inner world will reflect in your outer
As women in business, we face unique challenges regarding communication and accountability.
It's important to know how to communicate our needs while holding ourselves and others accountable effectively. In this article, we look at the concept of accountability and its importance in building trust and integrity, as well as the role that effective communication plays in making sure we are empowered to express our needs without fear. We also take a look at current statistics on women and trust
Accountability is a critical aspect of communication. Holding someone accountable means letting them know that they have neglected an obligation or responsibility that is incumbent upon them by virtue of their position or personal consent. When people refuse to be held accountable for their commitments, they lack trust and integrity personality traits As women in business, it's important that we hold ourselves and others accountable for our actions and commitments This builds stronger connections and credibility, which is essential for success in any field
Communicating your needs is also important for empowering oneself and others around you You also give permission to show vulnerability Unfortunately, not everyone is receptive to our needs and may even punish us for expressing them Anyone who rejects your attempt to communicate your needs or, worse, labels you as entitled does not deserve your engagement They have no sincere interest in your wellbeing As women, we must learn to communicate our needs effectively and get used to being honest when our needs are dismissed, without canceling the legitimate needs of others around us
The role that effective communication plays in making sure we are empowered to express our needs without fear.
Entitlement is a common problem in communication, particularly when someone rejects your needs and demands things from you that they themselves don't deliver on This can lead to a toxic work/relationship environment and undermine compassion and credibility Female entrepreneurs need to watch out for a sense of entitlement in themselves and others When we recognise the signs of entitlement thinking in communication, we can avoid negative situations and build healthier, more productive relationships
According to a recent survey by KPMG, 67% of women in leadership positions say they're confident in their abilities, compared to 73% of men This confidence gap is a real challenge for women in business, and it's important to understand its causes One factor is the lack of diverse representation of women in leadership positions, which can create a culture of self-doubt and ‘imposter syndrome’ when women do not have their cultural needs met or don't have their lifestyles facilitated. How can you be expected to communicate your needs in an unsupportive environment? Another factor is the tendency for women to attribute success to external factors rather than their own abilities. By understanding these challenges, we can take steps to build our confidence and close the confidence gap.
In summary, clarity in understanding the communication dynamics of accountability, entitlement, and communicating one's own needs, will accelerate the progress of women in business By holding ourselves and others accountable, and effectively communicating our needs clearly, we can navigate the entitlement dynamics we are exposed to in order to foster healthier, more productive relationships to achieve our goals. It's also important to recognize the challenges we face as women in business, which may be related to past habits and psychological conditioning that will serve as obstacles in our way That's where having a great coach to guide you and who can see your blindspots would be a significant advantage in your communications currency.
If you would like help with this, contact MissCommuniteam at the following email info@misscommuniteam com or click on the link, misscommuniteam com
Jan Daudi is a communications coach and journalist helping ambitious women maximise their communications currency and increase their word wealth by training them to ‘say what they mean, mean what they say, without being mean’ She is a bestselling co-author, international speaker, and expert on communication strategies for safe spaces in the diversity and inclusion context
Jan Daudi
Female entrepreneurs need to watch out for a sense of entitlement in themselves and others.
by Dr. Letitia Wright
Starting and running a business can be challenging, especially when it comes to securing financing. If you are a woman, this challenge increases tenfold. Women entrepreneurs, in particular, face many obstacles when it comes to accessing capital. According to a report by the National Women's Business Council, women-owned businesses receive only 16% of conventional small business loans, despite representing 42% of all businesses
Unlike SBA loans, one does not have to qualify for crowdfunding. There is no credit check and no need to put up collateral. Crowdfunding is a method of fundraising that involves raising money from a large number of people, in small amounts. Typically, this is done through the internet with the assistance of social media, but the same process applies offline Crowdfunding campaigns are usually started by individuals or organizations who need funding for a highly-specific project Grants are competitive and, often, it can take a long time to receive the funds With crowdfunding, although it still takes time, the outcome is much more controllable
In most areas of life, women face stereotypes and gender-based assumptions In funding, this is maximized, as women battle against stereotypes and unfair double standards that exist in the world of business Standards intended to keep them, and their profits, small Female entrepreneurs face specific problems and false beliefs, such as the belief that women do not know how to manage money or the idea that women do not make good leaders Most prevalent is the idea that women are too emotional and unpredictable
It's important that female business owners know about the funding options available to them, including crowdfunding
I've been involved in the crowdfunding space since the concept began Time and time again, I find that crowdfunding is an amazing tool to help women shoot for the stars, achieve their dreams, and reach their business goals without anxiety and fear As women, we face a host of challenges when getting our ideas off the ground With crowdfunding, women have a chance to succeed in ways that wouldn't have been feasible before
"Crowdfunding is an amazing tool to help women shoot for the stars, achieve their dreams, and reach their business goals."
Not only does crowdfunding give women a place to fund their projects, but a place to connect with others who believe in their ideas, who believe in them When we are starting something new, having people who believe in our ability to make it happen is critical, as mentors and advisers often jump into the mix to share their resources and advice
Contrary to popular belief, crowdfunding isn't only for start-ups It's for small businesses, new businesses, and even those who have been in business for a while
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I recommend the Get Crowdfunded Now Podcast on iTunes. Easy to digest and quick to listen to, the Podcast breaks down real-world examples that anyone can understand in only 15 minutes.
Like all things, there are advantages and disadvantages to every type of funding Angel investors typically invest in high-growth startups VCs want to invest in high-growth startups in exchange for equity in the company Crowdfunding is unique in that there is no need to give up equity Regardless of what you choose, it is essential to do your research and choose the option that is best for you and your business
I want to make women aware that crowdfunding is an option that is available to them If you are looking to start doing research about crowdfunding, try these simple tips below
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Seek out interviews and articles from people who are raising money via crowdfunding The key is making sure that these interviews are current, not ones from years ago Crowdfunding, like many industries, changes rapidly and what worked several years ago will rarely translate to now Listen to what they say they are doing, take notes, and start to plan
During my time in the funding space, I've seen people win big, but I've also watched things crash and burn. If you chose the crowdfunding route, I urge you to take advantage of expert knowledge and mentorship to create a plan to achieve your Fabulous Funding Goals and turn your business dreams into reality.
If you would like to speak with Dr. Wright about your crowdfunding idea, use this link: drwright.youcanbook.me
Dr. Letitia Wright is a highly-esteemed and notable businesswoman. She is the Executive Producer and host of her nationally syndicated television show Wright Place Television, which is now in its 18th season with the bandwidth expanding over 6 5 million homes each week in Southern California on Direct TV Channel 64.
drletitiawright wrightplacetv com
"Crowdfunding is unique in that there is no need to give up equity."
byLouiseHallam
Every time I see the pouring out of feeling on women leaving leadership, there is a whisper from my soul, which is this You can create influence and change from wherever you are and whatever position you are in. What can be done from within an organisation can be as powerful as what you can do from outside of it.
The suffocation of your creativity, fear of speaking your truth, and holding back your sensitivity and use of your intuition are ready to be unshackled. The systems within organisations are not ready for you yet. They are still dismantling and breaking down and once they return to their foundations, then you can return with a new sense of vision and purpose.
A new energy, which creates the great waves of change that have been long awaited, needed, and desired. For now, you may want to replenish, rest, restore, grow, understand yourself and your sense of self, connect, love yourself, and take care of yourself.
Along with the forests, the rivers, the wild meadows, the animal habitats, and the land With Mother Nature, you long to return to your natural state of being, growing, learning, developing, and teaching. You are being taken back to what brings you closer to this, which means that you will lose what you thought you had gained. In status, in material wealth, in joy through hits of dopamine that do not last beyond the initial high.
You will grieve for a time until you start to reconnect. With nature, with cycles, with love, with purpose, with passion, with life. A life lived without fear and trepidation, using the skills and talents of your ancestors, who knew how to make, how to heal, how to listen.
You are being broken down so that you can rebuild yourself up into something new. No defined shape, you can swirl and swish and create on a multidimensional level. A freedom that you have not yet experienced, but all at once becomes as familiar as a place that you call home. You will gather together in time. For now, why not rest here a while and listen to what you need to hear?
A blanket of comfort will fall over you and you feel safe, warm, protected, and loved. You will stir again when the time is right. Then you are ready to emerge. As a warrior, a goddess, a priestess, a medicine woman, healer A leader of a different kind
"You are being broken down so that you can rebuild yourself up. "
You are ready for the new world that awaits you and automatically places you in a prominent position as part of a movement of women in leadership and change
You can create the future that we have been waiting for
What you can see when you retreat is more than what you can see close up You have a higher perspective, an inner knowing, a birds-eye view What you create is beautiful, beyond comprehension, beyond the sight of the naked eye
You are seen through the eyes of the divine, which places no limitations on your potential You are unlimited, right now, in the past, present, and future
Women have been slated for wanting it all and then it was made twice as hard for them to get to the leadership position that they deserved Consistently told you can’t be mum, parent, carer, and a kick-ass leader It’s no wonder women leaving leadership positions is a real phenomenon
Maybe you’re just tired of still being second best and want a break until you can come back at it with both barrels Or maybe you won’t, because there is a different path waiting for you With different choices and different options, giving you a greater sense of satisfaction, that doesn’t feel like climbing Mount Everest most days
Taking back your power is one of the most empowering ways of reclaiming your self-worth, creating new boundaries, and having a no-nonsense approach to life, where you don’t need to compromise because you’ve got the time to do it all
Louise worked in a corporate role for 25 years. She experienced a spiritual awakening and was connected with her Native American guides who unlocked her true purpose and powerful healing tools, including the sensitive healing of ancestral patterns, the elimination of stress epidemics, and her connection to Purpose. Through her own commitment to raising her consciousness and overcoming ancestral fears, Louise is now an Intuitive Consultant, channel for ancient wisdom, and spiritual mentor. She is working with senior leaders, changemakers, and spiritual entrepreneurs, to liberate their sensitive souls and place them on their Path to Purpose.
louise-hallam-stillcalm
louisehallam.com
"Taking back your power is one of the most empowering ways of reclaiming your self-worth."
We asked our community....
What is the one lesson someone taught you that you will always remember and are grateful for?
You onlyget everysingledayonce so make it count - live in the present and cherish the moments,it’s not a rehearsal anddon’tfear change.
Stay in your own lane Focus on what’s important to you and what you were doing to grow your business
Once you understand what your true values are, by what you do every day, you will know what direction you're going in life.
Courage is the only thing we need to stand up for ourselves.
Never believe that it can't be done and through both hills and valleys just keep marching forward.
Payattention tohow others treat you.It tells you everythingyou need toknow.
You will learn something NEW everyday of your life! Stay wise
Never make a permanent decision based on a temporary feeling Trust no one in business, including family, or friends. That way you will not be cheated out of money and so on.
What others think of you is none of your business
Keeping the main thing the main thing. It's super easy to become distracted by all the little things that don't impact the "main thing" - so that has stuck with me for years.
Always find the humor. Even in the darkest hour, there is humor You may just have to look hard to find it.
To never excuse toxic behavior. To never look at a person's potential but what the have in front of you Especially if only you see their potential .
Are you looking to grow your business but don't have the budget to hire a marketing agency or a coach to show you how?
Our membership teaches you all of that for just $47 a month - and the first month is 50% off right now.
Inside, you have access to social media, visibility, lead generation, email list building, nurture your audience strategies and templates for your funnels. We collected more than 3 years of the best in the industry advice and guidance at a fraction of what coaching would cost. All you have to do is dedicate the time to go through it and implement Are you in? At $23.5 you really can't go wrong with this investment.
You may have heard the phrase: live in the present moment. But what does that really mean? How can we create power in presence if we can’t live in the moment? Well, we know what it feels like to be scattered, stressed, anxious, or depressed. Living in these states is the opposite of being present. It’s said that anxiety is caused by worrying about the future, depression is fed by worrying about the past, and worrying is about wishing for what you don’t want. That’s all pretty heavy! And very true!
There is power in your presence. So what do you want? How about starting with stillness - a sense of calm to wash away the tension and dis-ease If we introduce stillness and more peace, calm can enter My favorite quote by Deepak Chopra, MD, author and founder of The Chopra Foundation is: ‘Every cell in your body is eavesdropping on every thought you think ’ What are you telling your body every day, every moment?
We start with breath and focus. I’m pretty confident that we all are looking for happiness and contentment in our daily lives. When we choose to step off the hamster wheel and turn off the monkey mind, we can find a true sense of happiness and BE in the space to create even more. Creating from inspired action rather than force.
I often call meditation my magic pill. It’s a mind training tool. Just like flexing the muscle of the body in order to gain strength, health, and wellbeing, we flex the muscle of the mind to create stillness, calmness, and clarity It’s about coming back to the basics to calm your mind, connect to the presence of your breath, and heal, grow, and expand your mind, body, and spirit
There is a correlation between how you breathe and your emotional state You cannot be breathing deeply and calmly and experience a state of panic The body is the vehicle of the mind - where is your mind, and how is the body expressing that state?
"If we introduce stillness and more peace, calm can enter."
"I often call meditation my magic pill. It’s a mind training tool."
Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, states: ‘The real practice in meditation is living your life as if it really matters moment by moment ’ How are you experiencing your life, day by day, moment by moment? Are you in gratitude for all the blessings that surround you? Or do you focus on the negative or lack? Where do you want your attention to be? You decide. It’s your choice. You have the power to create your life - in the presence of stillness.
Mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way, on purpose, without judgment. A study on mindfulness meditation showed a significant increase in activity in the left side of the brain’s frontal area - associated with lower anxiety and a better mood - and the participants reported more positive emotions. Enhanced immunity was reported as a result of mindfulness as well; meditators produced more antibodies in response to the flu shot than nonmeditators. Meditation can make you physically happier and healthier.
Another study, of monks who spent 10,000 hours in compassion meditation, showed higher levels of gamma waveshigh-frequency brain activity involved in attention, memory, and learning. This study indicated that meditation benefits accumulate over time. This is a lifestyle choice, a habit of healthy living.
Breathwork, as explained by Dr. Andrew Weil, is the only function you do voluntarily and involuntarily. It is the only function through which you can access and influence the involuntary (autonomic) nervous system, which regulates the heart, circulation, digestion, and other vital functions. We have the ability to affect our health, in a positive way, through meditative practices!
If you want to begin really living your life in the moment, enjoying the here and now, it’s time for inspired action and to begin the basics in exercising the power in presence. Through simple tools such as breathwork, guided meditation, and visualizing, you will experience the power of presence
Remember, what you put your attention on expands We can choose where to put our attention; it takes focus, dedication, and discipline The benefits are endless!
Dawn Gaden is the CEO of Mind Body Counseling & Coaching PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, yoga teacher, mindset expert and self-image coach, international speaker, and 3x bestselling author. Dawn is a powerhouse in the field of personal empowerment She is internationally known for igniting positive change
dawngaden
"Through simple tools such as breathwork, guided meditation, and visualizing, you will experience the power of presence. "
I remember each of my children coming into the world, like it was yesterday All seven of them Each time, while still in the hospital, I would gaze in sheer disbelief that they were here Healthy and strong And each time I marvelled at the ability of my body to sustain and carry them for nine months
As mothers, we get home from the hospital and experience all the highs and lows of those first few weeks and months of motherhood and it is the most exciting, exhilarating, scary rollercoaster you will ever ride. But there is another aspect of that scene rarely, if ever, talked about, and that is acknowledging that the reflection we now see in the mirror is not one we can fully identify with.
Yes, I said it out loud. After having each of my children, I didn’t like the body I saw in the mirror looking back at me, even though I was staring at a mother in the mirror Did she really say that?
Yes, I did
Yes, I felt so grateful, each time that this body had carried my child, but I didn’t love what I saw afterward Yet, I felt shame in feeling this way After all, we are bombarded with statements and images on social media reminding us that it's not about that It's about being a mother Embracing the new normal This is the body you have now and you should appreciate it and not look at it feeling like you wish it was different Motherhood is not about that It shouldn’t be your focus That is the narrative we are relentlessly presented with, so to have feelings to the contrary can seem unsettling
Well, I want to flip the script! So many times, women lose themselves in motherhood It can feel all-consuming Before children, you may have been a vibrant, creative, vivacious woman You had goals and time, an agenda, a social life, and you looked and felt amazing You worked out, you ate well, you practiced self-care and you could identify with the person in the mirror
As a mother with 1,000 balls in the air, possibly feeling so far removed from the ‘old’ you, I want to remind you that you still are that woman From personal experience, I can say, without embarrassment, I have felt overwhelmed looking at my physical appearance after children and feeling that, looking back, I could not identify with that woman
You see, society will tell us that a woman’s body is amazing. It creates and carries life! What an incredibly empowering experience to be a part of. But the story should not and doesn’t have to end there. My body has carried seven children, sustained them for nine months, and brought
"This is the body you have now and you should appreciate it."
them into the world And even after that, all the weight gain, the stretching, the eating, the births, simply by unapologetically prioritising exercise and nutrition, I am fitter, stronger, healthier, and more energetic than I have ever been If I can do it, anyone can I say these things only to inspire other women Even if reading this, your default reaction is ‘I just don’t have time’, then I urge you to never ever underestimate the power of small changes I work out almost every day At home, with children everywhere, interrupting me, walking in front of me, but I do it
Do you feel this way? Have you relegated yourself in order to promote your family? Has the ‘you’ from before you had children become less and less visible? It's ok to admit it, if they have But start now Set yourself a goal Do it for you! Decide how you want to feel and how you want to look and start to make decisions to facilitate these feelings every day. As a mum, you maybe feel like there is no space in your life for anything else. Push past that excuse. Everyone can find 15 minutes in the day. Hold yourself accountable to these 15 minutes and fight for that girl who you know is in there bursting to get out.
I do a mix of yoga, Pilates, and free weights and I NEVER work out for more than about 12 minutes. I am making it doable, instead of making an excuse not to do it. Not only is this small change affecting my physical health but, more importantly, it has a lasting impact on my mental wellbeing. It feels great to show up for myself in this way and I am doing it right smack dab in the middle of family life.
I want every mother to know it's ok to want to look better, to want to look like you, the you that you see in your mind’s eye, to want to feel attractive and have confidence. These are legitimate feelings. And they most definitely do not make you selfish. When you look at yourself as a mother in the mirror, what do you want to see? What actions can you take to make this vision come true?
Very often I hear the line, ‘You don’t look like you have seven young children!’. Why is this? What should a mum of seven look like? Exhausted? Bedraggled? Downtrodden with no energy or self-esteem?
Your body is a powerhouse. You are managing your family every day. You juggle, organise, plan, cook, clean, motivate, problem solve, and conflict manage every day. As mothers, we should be standing unashamedly shoulder to shoulder with the greatest, most inspirational women of our time. Don’t apologise for wanting to be the best version of you.
Our bodies are so much more than the vessel used to birth our children, so don’t let the story end there. Be the mum who fuels her body, who pushes her body, who is bursting with energy to play with her children, who eats well and hydrates to be the best version of her.
And, most importantly, don’t just survivethrive And be proud of the mother in the mirror
Emma is a busy mother of seven children under 12 and a voluntary motivational speaker. She encourages women to reject the negative depiction of motherhood being fed to women daily on social media.
sevenlittlelewiskids
"When you look at yourself as a mother in the mirror, what do you want to see? "
Two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, eight-time Grammy winner, the first black artist on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine, domestic violence survivor, trailblazer, mother, and the Queen of Rock n Roll, Tina Turner died on May 24, 2023.
Tina was born in Tennessee on November 26, 1939, where she spent much of her time singing in her church choir. In 1957, she met her future husband, Ike Turner, in a nightclub in St. Louis. Together, they released some of Tina’s most famous songs like “River Deep-Mountain High”, “Proud Mary”, “A Fool in Love”, and more.
They quickly became musical icons with their multiple hits. On the outside it looked like Tina had everything, an amazing career, talent, and a loving husband, but soon the cracks became larger and the abuse even more prevalent. It wasn’t long before Ike became addicted to cocaine and the abuse became overwhelming. His manipulation, violence, and control left Tina fearful, burned and bruised. She was completely financially dependent on Ike yet finally found the courage to leave him.
After being physically abused by Ike, Tina fled from a Dallas hotel with $0.36 cents and a credit card. She said that after she left, “I felt proud. I felt strong. I felt like Martin Luther King.” She knew it wasn’t going to be an easy journey. Once they were divorced, Tina had to start over and had one of the most successful comeback careers to date.
Songs like “Private Dancer” and “What’s Love Got to Do With It” became hits and her career skyrocketed. In 2013, she became a Swiss citizen giving up her US citizenship. She went on to marry Erwin Bach, a Swiss music executive, who also became her saviour when he donated one of his kidneys to her, giving her six more years of life.
Even though she is no longer with us her legacy lives on through her music, musicals based on her life, books, memories, and more. Tina Turner was one of the most sought-after singers yet still faced domestic violence.
She was the Queen of Rock n Roll but couldn’t escape from her abuser until she fled from a hotel. Her ability to carry on even when it seems like all hope is lost is an inspiration for women around the world.
Rest in Peace, Tina.
This book is a compilation of inspiring true stories of women overcoming adversity. Abuse. Addiction. Divorce. Trauma. Tragedy. Exploitation. Injustice… we all have our obstacles to overcome. The true stories in this book, bravely shared by women from very different backgrounds, living in very different worlds, prove that not only is it possible to thrive despite those obstacles, it’s often our obstacles that motivate us to rise to our power in ways we never believed possible. The stories of eight phenomenal women in this book stand testament to what is possible and how strong and determined women are; when we come together, we are unstoppable.
