Honoring Yourself

Who are these two women and what is their connection?

Look closely. Yes, both pictures are of me, but at different stages of my life- and fortunately, that is the new me on the left!

I am writing this article to motivate and support readers who may be contemplating a life makeover. Trust me, if I did it, you can do it. A few years ago, the picture on the right was taken. Although I may have managed a smile for the camera, my life was out of balance and unfulfilling. I was approaching fifty and drowning in an uncommunicative marriage. My career was all encompassing and I had little time to spend with my children. As a result, I found comfort in food and packed on weight. On the outside, I performed well and not a friend, family member or neighbor suspected my level of misery. I am a private person and kept it all inside. One morning I looked in the mirror, my lips started to tremble and the tears rolled down my cheeks. I began crying and couldn’t stop. Several hours later, feeling a strange combination of exhaustion and relief, I told myself I could do it. I made a decision that very day. I told myself over and over again,I am responsible for my own happiness and I have to take my life back.

By opening myself to life changes that came my way, trusting my intuition and taking several leaps of faith along the way, I took several positive steps in just a few weeks. When separation packages were offered at work, I grabbed it. Found a nearby gym (this was new territory for me) and contracted the most demanding trainer. It felt amazing to know I could control my own destiny.

As one of psychology’s most insightful legacies, Erik Erikson, asserted–individuals find happiness when three elements of life are in balance- love, play and work. So here I am a year later knowing that assertion is true and feeling in stride. Regarding love, I have a solid friendship with my ex-husband..delightfully dating…thirty pounds lighter and feeling great. In terms of play, I have reconnected with my childrentraveling regularly..exploring new hobbies (hot air ballooning, fitness programs, mentoring) and discovering new interests. Love it!

And as for work, I reconnected with a cross-cultural expert and talented friend who I have known for over two decades. Bill and I share a passion for global unity and know the vital role cross-cultural education will play in an interactive global marketplace. As we talked about our passions, we looked at each other and smiled. It was like the light bulb went off in our heads at the same time. Together, we launched Globally Hip and in just a couple months, have received incredible feedback about our Global Signature Programs and have several bookings for seminars and workshops. Check out our site at www.GloballyHip.com. Call or email me at Donna@GloballyHip.com. I would be delighted to connect with you. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and the support to make it happen!

Donna Sinnery
Co-Founder & Managing Director
Globally Hip, LLC