The Business of Life
I spent most of my adult life learning to put my oxygen mask on first.
For some individuals, the concept of self-care comes effortlessly, while those of us who readily anticipate the needs of others often struggle to prioritize self-care. Through a series of life lessons—sometimes in the form of mistakes—I’ve come to realize that thriving in life doesn’t necessarily stem from grand gestures, but rather from the small choices we make each day.
After spending a decade teaching preschool, I embarked on a transformative journey when my youngest child entered kindergarten. The decision to pursue higher education was daunting, yet armed with determination I took the leap. This path led me to explore a diverse range of subjects including positive psychology, lifestyle medicine, religious studies, theories of personality, and wellness coaching. Fortunately, I was able to integrate these pieces into a cohesive whole and earned a bachelor’s degree.
Simultaneously I was completing courses through Centers for Spiritual Living to become a Religion Science Practitioner. During this process I rediscovered and redefine my own spiritual beliefs. While I always felt a strong connection to something greater than myself, organized religious didn’t line up with my personal values and beliefs. I believed, as Maya Angelou states, “All roads lead to God.”
As I neared the end of my studies, I saw a clear connection between my life experiences and the trajectory I was on. This realization culminated in my graduation from Metropolitan State University in Denver with a degree in Holistic Wellness. Building upon this achievement, I obtained a health and wellness coaching certification through the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC). This marked the foundation for launching my venture, Balanceology.
Balanceology practices are rooted in science-based methodologies. My approach to behavior change is research-based.
My journey into understanding the profound influence of our thoughts, emotions, and sensations on our life experience began with a relocation from my native Georgia to Colorado. This change in scenery facilitated a shift toward more positive thinking, which prompted me to embark on a profound exploration of my own negative thought patterns. Much like tending a garden, I began to uproot unhealthy mental patterns and cultivated a sense of self-worth and empowerment. This was a powerful lesson in how our external environment influences our internal landscape and vice versa.
Subsequently, when my son was diagnosed with a chronic autoimmune disease, I once again learned through the trials and tribulations of life that our daily practices hold the power to guide us with strength and grace, even during times of transition and grief. This experience reinforced the significance of a healthy lifestyle, instilled in me through a genetic autoimmune disease in my family.
In my earlier years as a single mother in my twenties, the importance of daily rituals and routines for personal thriving eluded me. I frequently found myself exhausted and overwhelmed, often placing the needs of others ahead of my own well-being. This personal struggle has fueled my passion for working with teenagers and busy working mothers today. Guiding them to unlock the potential of a balanced life has become a mission close to my heart. My own mentors showed me the path from mere survival to genuine flourishing, and now, it’s an honor to occupy a position where I can provide guidance, enabling others to embark on a similar journey.
In essence, my story illustrates how personal growth and the practice of self-care can emerge from challenges and experiences. By sharing my journey and knowledge, I aspire to inspire others to navigate their own paths towards well-being and fulfillment.