I have been called an “idealist” for many years because I believe we can live in a world of peace. My business and the methodology I created is based on that very premise. Companies hire me to teach effective communication to create a workplace culture that thrives with productivity, profitability, and peace. That is all great, but my life mission is to create world peace one conversation at a time.

My business logo is comprised of puzzle pieces. The reason I chose puzzle pieces is that each piece is interconnected, and we need each one to complete the whole picture. I teach that each person is equally important. To achieve success (financially, professionally, personally, etc.), we need to learn how to live and work together.

Some people believe that I am naïve or unrealistic. That may be the exact reason I have been struggling with our current social environment. Every time I turn on the TV, Social Media, or pick up a paper, negativity smacks me in my face. Maybe you feel this way too? As I observed people on social media calling each other names and saying horrible things to one another, I found myself getting depressed. I then remembered something one of my coaches taught me and something I now share with my clients.

She always told me in the midst of one of my breakdowns that she was so excited for me. I remember the first time she said it to me. I thought to myself, is she freaking kidding me. But she was right! Every time life seemed to be getting out of control, the most beautiful breakthrough or ah-ha moment was soon to follow. Like how a rainbow appears after a storm. Unfortunately, historically change only seems to occur when we have chaos and destruction. So today, instead of spinning down deeper into despair, I choose to get excited knowing that a positive change is coming for humanity.

When I start to feel overwhelmed and find myself shutting down, I turn off my tv, computer, and phone. Some of the things that I do to positively shift my energy is I take walks in nature and enjoy all the beauty. I pull out a book that inspires me or I call a friend who feeds my soul. Sometimes, I turn up the volume on music that makes me want to dance. Journaling helps me get my thoughts out of my head and on paper. The next time you find yourself feeling this way, do something that makes you feel good from the inside out. When we shift our energy, we shift our perception.

Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.” Let us remember to see the stars in time of darkness.