Hello, my incredible change-makers, innovators, and dream-builders! Today, I want us to pause and reflect on a powerful truth that can reshape how we lead our lives and businesses. It’s this: Yesterday is not chasing you. Yesterday, with all its wins and wounds, does not define you. Yesterday is not a prison. However, it is a teacher. And friends, the lesson it teaches is simple yet profound: the key to your growth, breakthroughs, joy, and success lies not in the past. It is in this moment, right now.
Why Do We Chase Yesterday?
It’s easy to get caught up in the illusion of the past. Too often, we find ourselves running after memories of past successes or carrying the weight of mistakes long gone. But I’m here to tell you to stop wasting your energy chasing ghosts. Yesterday is done, and it cannot chase you either. What you commit to today will build your power, influence, and future. You create the inspired life, the thriving business, and the family legacy by showing up here and now with purpose, clarity, and a willingness to grow. Remember, the more you dwell on the past, the more you miss out on the opportunities of the present.
The Power of Staying Present
To live fully today, you must first anchor yourself in the present. I challenge you to create a brighter future. Commit to stop being held hostage by your past. Being fully present is about finding the strength to honor your experiences. They shape your perspective, give you wisdom, and remind you of your capacity to rise. But don’t allow them to dictate your actions. Think about it: The only thing you can shape is what happens next. That’s a beautiful opportunity waiting for you every single day.
How Do You Stay in the Here and Now?
Being present starts with practicing mindfulness in your daily life. Mindfulness is not just a concept. It’s a practical tool that can help you stay focused on the present moment.Take five minutes out of your day. Yes, just five minutes to breathe deeply, sip your coffee slowly, and actually feel gratitude for something in your life. This small act immediately redirects your focus and calms that overactive inner critic. You know, the one who constantly pulls you back to last week’s mistakes or the things you “should have” done. It’s shifting your focus to daily progress. When your energy is rooted in the now, magic happens. You tune into opportunities you may have overlooked. You become sharper, more resilient, and ready to lead with clarity. That shift is powerful, and it’s just the beginning.
Three Steps to Take Bold Action
Living in the moment doesn’t mean sitting still. It’s about taking purposeful action every single day. The most successful people don’t wait for inspiration; they move. Here’s how you can start taking bold, deliberate steps forward right now:
1. Set Daily Non-Negotiables
Begin each morning asking yourself, “What is my one most important objective today?” Make it realistic, achievable, and aligned with your long-term vision. Consider reaching out to a potential client, spending uninterrupted time with your kids, or testing a new marketing strategy; commit to it 100%. Remember, consistency builds momentum.
2. Build Reflection Into Your Routine
Take moments at the end of the day to check in with yourself. Celebrate small wins. Did you learn something new? Great. Did you fail? Even better, now you know what not to do. Reflection isn’t about nitpicking flaws. It’s about finding lessons and moving forward stronger.
3. Cultivate Creativity Daily
Innovation thrives when you create space for curiosity and experimentation. Be playful and allow yourself to brainstorm without fear of judgment. Try asking questions from your customers. What do they really want? Collaborate with team members or even your family circles for fresh ideas. Creativity doesn’t just belong in the boardroom. Make creativity a part of your everyday problem-solving toolbox.
Believe in Your Impact
Finally, I want you to understand this: Someone is waiting for you to walk in your purpose. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or someone building a legacy, your dedication shapes lives, including your own. When you are actively shaping a future that surpasses anything in your past, yesterday cannot chase you. Believe in your impact and know that you are making a difference.
So, take a breath at this moment. It’s yours! Throw yourself, heart-first, into pursuing better, more decisive, more aligned-to-your-purpose days. Forget chasing what’s gone. Instead, chase your potential. I am Brenda, The Soulutionist, and I believe in you. Now it’s time to believe in yourself and live in the NOW! No Opportunity Wasted. Protect Your Peace. Be Blessed.
The unexpected passing of two beautiful souls this week has me thinking about self-love. Grief and emotional challenges can feel overwhelming, particularly for entrepreneurs juggling high-pressure responsibilities. During these times, practicing self-love becomes essential, not just as a form of healing but as a way to maintain balance and resilience. In an effort to prevent any additional unnecessary silence, here are five mindful and actionable strategies to incorporate into your daily routine. I pray something in this article will encourage all readers to practice self-love. If you are struggling, please reach out for help if needed.
1. Start Your Day with Intentional Gratitude
The first moments of your day set the tone for everything that follows. Begin each morning by identifying one or two things you are grateful for, big or small. This simple practice can help shift your focus from loss to appreciation, fostering a sense of stability and positivity.
How to Implement It:
Keep a gratitude journal on your nightstand and jot down your thoughts immediately upon waking.
If mornings are rushed, try a 2-minute mental practice during your first cup of coffee or while brushing your teeth.
For busy entrepreneurs, weaving this into your existing habits ensures it’s doable without adding stress. Even in a chaotic schedule, gratitude has a grounding effect.
2. Create Gentle Boundaries Between Work and Rest
As entrepreneurs, it’s easy to blur the lines between work and personal time. However, failing to establish clear boundaries can be even more challenging during emotional turmoil. Practicing self-love means protecting your energy and allowing yourself the space to process your emotions.
How to Implement It:
Dedicate “non-negotiable” time blocks for yourself daily, even if it’s just 15 minutes to take a slow walk or breathe deeply.
At the end of your workday, engage in a symbolic “transition” activity, like changing clothes, turning off your phone, or writing a quick to-do for tomorrow to release work-related thoughts.
These small rituals can create a sense of closure, letting you recharge and be more present with yourself and your loved ones.
3. Practice Compassionate Check-Ins
When experiencing grief, it’s common to be hard on yourself. Give yourself some grace and forego feeling guilty for not being as productive or emotionally “together” as you’d like. Regularly carve out time to check in with yourself, free of judgment.
How to Implement It:
Pause for 2-3 minutes several times a day to ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” A breath? Support? A small reward?
Use mindfulness apps or journal prompts to explore your emotions without critique.
Entrepreneurs often check in on others, like their clients, teams, or families. Turning this nurturing instinct inward can be a powerful way to cultivate self-love.
4. Adopt a Simple, Nourishing Routine
Grief can drain your mental and physical energy. A supportive routine can help you stay grounded and regain a sense of normalcy amidst chaos. Make simplicity a non-negotiable priority. Practice focusing on small steps that nourish your body and mind without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, it’s the small, consistent acts of self-care that matter most.
How to Implement It:
Aim for balanced meals, regular hydration, and enough sleep. For example, prep healthy snacks for long workdays to keep energy levels steady.
Incorporate short physical activities like stretching at your desk or doing a quick home workout session.
Think of these habits as acts of love for your future self. Consistency is key, even if the steps feel small.
5. Lean on Your Support System
A major barrier to self-love during grief is the instinct to “carry it all” alone, especially for entrepreneurs used to self-reliance. Vulnerability and connection are acts of self-care, allowing you to feel seen, supported, and understood. Your support system is a crucial part of your self-love journey, and their presence in your life is a testament to your strength and resilience.
How to Implement It:
Schedule weekly check-in calls with trusted friends, family, or a mentor. Just sharing how you feel can lift emotional burdens.
Join a grief support group or talk with a therapist if you’re open to professional guidance.
For entrepreneurs, considering a business accountability partner or delegating tasks can also provide the additional breathing room you need for personal healing.
Finding Strength in Self-Love
Grief is not linear, and neither is the act of self-love. Loving oneself is honoring your needs, even when those needs change by the day. Be kind to yourself as you explore these strategies, acknowledging that healing takes time. Remember, your self-love is a powerful tool that can guide you through even the most challenging times.
Your self-love will flourish by carving out space for moments of gratitude, setting boundaries, nourishment, reflection, and connection. Creating these moments will allow you to set a solid foundation to emerge stronger, more centered, and deeply in tune with yourself. Remember, it’s okay to pause, feel, and love yourself. You are worthy of the care and compassion you so often extend to others. I am Brenda, The Soulutionist, and I believe in you. Always protect your peace while loving yourself. Be Blessed.
Need To talk? Call 988 (Veterans Press 1) Lifeline is for everyone. This line is available 24/7/365. Your conversations are free and confidential. Help is available online at https://988lifeline.org/. You are not alone.
The Super Bowl isn’t just a game. It’s a phenomenon. It showcases ambition, teamwork, and relentless pursuit of victory. Entrepreneurs, take note! The same energy that fuels championship teams can propel your business to its own big win in 2025. Even if you’re running a solo operation or leading a growing team, this is your time to shine under the lights.
Here’s a playbook to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into a victory celebration.
Step 1: Define Your Goal—Your Championship Trophy
Every player on a Super Bowl team knows exactly what they’re fighting for: the Lombardi Trophy. For you, that might mean hitting a specific revenue milestone, launching a breakthrough product, or achieving work-life harmony. Whatever your “trophy” is, define it clearly. This is your chance to take control and set the course for your success.
Ask yourself:
What does success look like this year?
How will I measure it?
Start with Writing it down. Keep it visible. When the goal is crystal clear, you’ll naturally make choices that move you closer to it.
Action Step: Take 15 minutes today to write down your 2025 “big win.” Make it specific, measurable, and tied to the deeper “why” that drives you.
Step 2: Identify Your Unique Strengths—Your MVPs
Super Bowl teams don’t win by accident. They win because they know their strengths. They identify their MVPs (Most Valuable Players) and lean into them. The same goes for you. Your MVPs are your unique skills, knowledge, or traits that set you apart.
Maybe you’re a brilliant networker. Or a detail-oriented planner. Or a visionary thinker who’s always ten steps ahead. Whatever you excel at, own it! Recognize these strengths as your unique selling points, and feel the confidence that comes with knowing you have what it takes.
Action Step: List out three strengths you bring to the table. Then, brainstorm how to leverage these MVPs for maximum impact in 2025.
Step 3: Build Your Team—Even If You’re a Solo Entrepreneur
Every great Super Bowl team has a roster of talented players and trusted coaches. But here’s the secret: even a solo entrepreneur can build a “team.”
Your team might include:
Mentors to guide you through tough decisions.
Allies to provide support and encouragement.
Virtual assistants or freelancers who help you tackle tasks.
You don’t have to do it all alone. The strongest entrepreneurs know when to call a play and when to get help. Building your team, even if it’s a virtual one, can provide the support and reassurance you need to navigate the challenges ahead.
Action Step: Identify one area where you need support. Commit to reaching out for help. Don’t shy away from hiring a pro or asking for advice.
Step 4: Create Your Strategy—Your Playbook
No Super Bowl victory happens without a smart, adaptable game plan. Your business strategy is your playbook, outlining exactly how you’ll achieve your goals. The key is to keep it both focused and flexible.
Break it down step by step:
What tasks must happen to achieve your goal?
When will they happen?
How will you measure progress?
Leave room for halftime adjustments (we’ll get to that).
Action Step: Dedicate time this week to start mapping out your playbook. Even a rough draft beats wandering aimlessly!
Step 5: Stay Resilient—Make Your Halftime Adjustments
Every team faces setbacks. Injuries happen. Plays get intercepted. But champions make halftime adjustments, coming back stronger in the second half. You will face challenges. Prepare for unexpected shifts in the market, failed experiments, and burnout. The secret? Stay adaptable.
When something goes wrong, don’t dwell on the loss. Take the lesson, realign, and get back in the game. Resilience will carry you through.
Action Step: Reflect on a time when you overcame a business obstacle in the past. How did you course-correct? Use that memory to remind yourself of your adaptability.
Final Whistle—Your Motivational Call to Action
The crowd is roaring. The clock is ticking. And the ball is in your hands. You’ve got everything it takes to make 2025 the year you score your entrepreneurial touchdown. Start today. Define your goal. Build your team. Draft your playbook. And promise yourself that when challenges arise, you’ll meet them head-on with the energy of a champion.
Because this isn’t just another year, win the game by taking action and proclaiming, “It’s YOUR year.” Grab the opportunities. Stay focused. And remember, no opportunity is wasted when you show up ready to win.
Now, it’s time to take action: What’s your first step toward your big win in 2025? Write it down, share it with your tribe, and start taking the steps to make it a reality. I am Brenda, The Soulutionist, and I believe in you. Let me know if there’s anything you’d like to tackle. The championship trophy and your thriving, fulfilling life await. Let’s go!
Hey there, my fabulous entrepreneurs! Let’s talk about those pesky “shoulds,” shall we? They creep in like unwanted guests, whispering in our ears: “I should be further along,” “I should have more clients,” “I should be making more money…” Sound familiar? Truth is, we’ve all been there. But let me tell you something: those “shoulds” are dream-stealers! They’re like little gremlins trying to convince you that you’re not enough, that you’re not doing enough, that you should be someone else. But here’s the truth, my ambitious ones: you are exactly where your choices lead you to be on your unique journey.
Consider This
Comparing yourself to someone else is like comparing apples to oranges. These fruits are both delicious but completely different! Their journey isn’t yours, and yours isn’t theirs. So, how do we silence those “shoulds” and embrace our own fabulous path? Let’s explore some action steps and pro tips, shall we?
Action Step #1: The “Should” Swap!
Whenever a “should” pops into your head, immediately swap it for a positive affirmation. Instead of “I should have more clients,” try “I am attracting my ideal clients.” Instead of “I should be further along,” whisper to yourself, “I am exactly where I need to be on my journey, and I am making progress every day.” It’s like a mental makeover! Making these swaps is key for an entrepreneur mindset and self-belief.
Action Step #2: The Gratitude Attitude Adjustment!
Each morning, take a few minutes to list three things you’re grateful for in your business. You may have landed a great speaking engagement, finally perfected your website copy, or had an extremely productive day. Focusing on the positive shifts your energy and silences those “shoulds.” This practice of gratitude for entrepreneurs is transformative.
Action Step #3: The “Celebrate YOU” Party!
Seriously, I encourage you to celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Did you finally launch that new product? Did you get a glowing testimonial? Did you manage to get out of bed and tackle your to-do list? Celebrate it! Acknowledge your progress and give yourself some love. You deserve it! Celebrating yourself is crucial for entrepreneur motivation.
Pro Tip #1: The “Comparison Detox”!
Unfollow accounts on social media that trigger those “shoulds.” I promise you that filtering out the noise is okay! Protect your energy and curate a feed that inspires you and brings joy. Remove anything that no longer serves you or makes you feel inadequate. Protecting your peace is essential self-care for entrepreneurs.
Pro Tip #2: The “Inner Cheerleader” Activation!
Become your own biggest fan! Talk to yourself the way you’d talk to your best friend. Be kind, be supportive, be encouraging. Ditch the inner critic and unleash your inner cheerleader! Positive self-talk is vital for entrepreneur success.
Pro Tip #3: The “Embrace the Detour” Dance!
Life throws curveballs. Sometimes, our journey becomes filled with unexpected turns. That’s okay! Embrace the detours. They often lead to even more amazing destinations. Just remember to enjoy the view during your course change. Being flexible builds entrepreneur resilience.
Wrap Up
Remember, you are capable, you are worthy, and you are on your own unique path. Want to live your best life? Ditch the “shoulds,” embrace your journey, and shine bright while you are learning to dance in the rain. Take note: your choices today will be your reality tomorrow. Choose wisely. I am Brenda, The Soulutionist, and I believe in you. You’ve got this! Be Blessed.
The events of the past week had me seriously reflecting on BELONGING. It’s more than a checkbox on a corporate agenda or a line item in a company policy. It is an intrinsic human need, a heartbeat that connects us all. At Brenda The Soulutionist, I believe in harmonizing life’s ambitions, and at the core of any thriving workplace, belonging is the energy that aligns individual purpose with collective success.
Belonging transcends the realms of diversity and inclusion initiatives. While these are vital to representation and equity, belonging is deeply personal. It’s knowing that your ideas, presence, and values are not just tolerated; they are embraced. This is the essence of a flourishing workplace where no opportunity for connection or collaboration is wasted.
Why Belonging Is at the Heart of Success
Think about the moments when you felt truly at home in a group. When your voice mattered, your contributions had weight, and your authentic self was accepted and celebrated. That’s what belonging feels like.
When Belonging Is not Practiced
Contrast this with scenarios where belonging is absent. Employees in exclusive cultures report feeling like outsiders, which quickly erodes trust and engagement. For example, a survey by BetterUp found that employees who feel they don’t belong are twice as likely to quit within the year. The ripple effects, loss of talent, decreased productivity, and a stagnant culture, are undeniable. Employees having a sense of belonging helps maintain organizational health and success.
Stories of Belonging Transformation
Belonging changes everything. One standout example is Microsoft’s autism-hiring initiative. By focusing on creating a culture where neurodivergent employees feel valued and supported, Microsoft unlocked immense talent, innovation, and loyalty within their teams. This initiative opened doors for neurodivergent individuals and fostered a richer, more empathetic workplace for everyone.
Similarly, Salesforce has centered its workplace philosophy on belonging. The company’s “Ohana” culture (“family” in Hawaiian) reflects its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for every employee. The result? Employees don’t just work for Salesforce. They work with Salesforce, bringing their full potential to the company driving success on every level.
Strategies to Build Belonging
Belonging is not a happy accident. It’s a result of intentional effort, nurtured and supported by leaders. When I guide entrepreneurs and business leaders through my TAPIN Method™, I stress this truth. Leaders must weave belonging into the fabric of daily interactions, making it a guiding principle rather than a fleeting initiative. Here’s how to start:
1. Create a Culture of Trust
Trust is the foundation of belonging. Teams that feel psychologically safe, where employees are encouraged to speak openly without fear of judgment, thrive. It helps them work better together. Leaders can foster this by asking for honest feedback, actively listening, and showing vulnerability themselves.
2. Humanize Leadership
Belonging starts at the top. When leaders share their professional growth stories, challenges, and what belonging means to them and the company, they create a ripple of connection through their teams. Transparency and relatability build bridges, not hierarchies.
3. Celebrate Differences
A team is stronger because of its differences, not despite them. Recognize employees for their unique perspectives and contributions. For instance, shout out their behind-the-scenes efforts in team meetings or incorporate their ideas into larger projects.
4. Encourage Meaningful Connections
Leaders should foster authentic relationships among team members. Building each team member might mean creating mentorship programs, hosting connection-driven events, or establishing shared interests during casual interactions. I often recommend starting meetings with a “win of the week” moment, encouraging everyone to share something positive from their life.
5. Prioritize Equity of Voice
Teams thrive when “ALL” voices are heard. Leaders can ensure this by providing everyone, including introverts and marginalized groups, a platform to contribute. Implementation could range from using tools like anonymous brainstorming sessions to setting intentional turns during discussions.
6. Embed Belonging Into Business Practice
Policies are important, but the real mark of belonging is how people interact daily. From onboarding that genuinely welcomes new employees to initiatives that celebrate milestones (work anniversaries, cultural holidays, or personal triumphs), belonging should be omnipresent.
A Human-Centered Future
What makes belonging so powerful is that it touches both intellect and emotion. It’s not just about making systems fair. It’s about making people feel seen and respected for their humanity. It’s about acknowledging that we each carry diverse stories and strengths, and together, in belonging, we build something extraordinary.
A Belonging Call To Action
For entrepreneurs and leaders alike, the call to action is clear. When we prioritize belonging, we aren’t just shaping better workplaces. We’re shaping better lives. It’s about harmonizing goals with our shared humanity and ensuring no opportunity for connection is overlooked.
Conclusion
As you reflect on your workplace, ask yourself this: Does every person here feel valued for who they are?Do we have a culture that recognizes our collective humanity? If the answer isn’t an emphatic “yes,” start now. Build bridges of belonging, champion the voices of your team, and nurture the environment where thriving becomes inevitable. I am Brenda, The Soulutionist, and I believe in you. Because when people belong, businesses soar. Be Blessed.
