Flourish
I’m currently obsessed with the word “flourish.” Conjuring up images of paintbrushes, architecture, beautiful calligraphy, and plants abundant with blooms, it’s a fun word to say and a word overflowing with meaning.
Merriam-Webster defines “flourish” as more than just growth; it's about thriving, achieving success, being in a state of dynamic activity, reaching developmental heights, and making bold gestures. These are powerful words – thrive, prosper, reach, bold. I want to flourish, and I want you to flourish too!
Recently, I had the privilege of attending a workshop with Dr. Ellen Reed, a psychologist turned bestselling author and coach. Driven by her mission to help people achieve their fullest ambitions through mental toughness, she challenged us to write a personal purpose statement, as your purpose defines your priorities and daily actions. What struck me was her purpose: "experience love and help others." I was in awe that her purpose starts with “experience love.” Her statement indicates that she values herself so that she can help others.
As I reflected on my purpose, I decided to take a cue from Dr. Reed. My purpose is:
Experience love and enable others to flourish
It feels right, but it's also a challenge. Like many women, I've grappled with the balance between self, family and career. Corporate life, at times, overshadowed my authentic personal journey. So, living into this purpose means putting myself at the forefront of my own life so that I can “enable others to flourish.”
Here are the actions I’m taking as I move towards my purpose:
I am claiming control of my calendar, making time for what truly matters, including workouts and solitary walks.
Protecting my energy is a priority. Building a new business is exhilarating but exhausting. Following advice from Lori Floerchinger, I'm ensuring I have moments of rest after energy-draining tasks. (Learn more about Lori.)
I introduced a new coaching offering called "Flourish." Rooted in my desire to help others flourish, this limited edition, small group coaching approach guides women feeling stuck in their current roles to script their next chapter of flourishing at work. One of my unique superpowers is seeing potential, so I’m really excited about this work.
I am practicing saying "no" or "not now" to anything that doesn't align with a resounding “full-body yes." (To learn what I mean by the full-body yes, listen to this podcast ep with Natalie Portman.)
In essence, I am prioritizing work that ignites my passion, engaging in activities that allow me to "experience love," and courageously saying no to everything else. It's a journey of self-prioritization, and I am excited about the flourishing chapters ahead.
BTW - I set a personal record for the use of the word “Flourish.” It’s 11 total times…um…I think that’s enough!
