Good Things Come to Those Who Journal

Journaling Coach

CT Library Consortium

Recruited for newly-created role to plan, market, and execute educational events and community partnerships for statewide membership collaborative serving 800 member libraries

•	Shape dynamic portfolio of cost-effective services, community-building events, and professional development workshops that align with and achieve CLC’s strategic goals/initiatives

•	Develop new and reinvigorate existing partnership programs that provide CLC members with unique, co-branded training and informational experiences; select partners include Goodspeed Musicals, Mystic Seaport Museum, and Connecticut Storytelling Center

•	Identify opportunities to revise processes and position CLC for long-term success including coordination of virtual Vendor Expos and modernization of CLC Programming Catalog

•	Oversee logistics, promotion, and execution of ~35 roundtables each with its own topic area, Chair, and audience; spearheaded 2020 conversion from in-person to virtual achieving 126% attendance increase

•	Foster open dialogue with librarians across the state; proactively anticipate programming needs to deliver services that strengthen offerings, incorporate feedback, and delight patrons

•	Manage event budget including forecasting, resource allocation, and expense management 

•	Facilitate and deliver advocacy training for more than 150 Connecticut librarians in large and small groups

Events and Special Projects Manager

Northwest Village School

Therapeutic day school for special education students ages 4-21 who exhibit complex social, emotional, learning, and/or behavioral challenges and would benefit from placement outside a traditional public school setting

•	Selected as first trained librarian in the role to transform humble bookroom into vibrant library program

•	Managed collection development process by assessing gaps for each section and curating age-appropriate resources; coordinated automation process including researching and selecting software, cataloging all library and school curriculum materials, and creating new collections of both print and digital resources

•	Designed and delivered curriculum in library, information and research, and technology skills; facilitated professional development training for educators; collaborated with teachers on technology integration and co-teaching of classes

•	Customized topics for each grade level to better serve student needs and promote skill progressions; created safe environment for all patrons through use of de-escalation strategies

•	Oversaw library budget, managed resource/cost projections, and supervised 12 student volunteers

•	Instituted school literacy events including annual Read Across America celebrations, coordinated external speakers, and introduced graphic novel collection (most popular and widely circulated school collection)

Library Media Specialist

Avon Free Public Library

Center of enrichment for Avon community providing free and convenient access to information, literature, culture, and the arts through a variety of media and technologies

•	Executed original programming for children including reader’s theater workshops, family thank you letter writing, and thematic creative programs connected to the Amazing Castle™ installation

•	Assisted children, students, and accompanying adults with navigation of library materials, equipment and resources; provided readers’ advisory services, connecting readers with engaging materials

•	Partnered with Teen Librarian on Book Buddies program pairing elementary school students with middle and high school students to foster reading skills

•	Demonstrated ability to tactfully manage challenging patrons (i.e. high energy and or poor in-library behavior) resulting in reduction of risk behaviors

Children's Library Specialist

Self-Employed

Family Sabbatical

Ketchum

At Ketchum (formerly Capital Strategies), I worked with associations such as the North Carolina Economic Developers' Association and NC Go! on events (meetings, conferences, legislative days), editing newsletters, and providing member support. I helped develop communications plans for organizations such as Junior League of Raleigh.

Project Coordinator

Journaling is a transformative tool, but let's be real - the generic advice of "just write whatever comes to mind" doesn't cut it for everyone. If you've ever felt stuck or disillusioned with journaling, you're not alone.

I specialize in helping individuals like you discover the power of journaling in a way that meets your unique needs and goals.

Are you craving more mindfulness in your life, longing to be fully present with loved ones? Or perhaps you're striving to boost your productivity and secure that long-awaited promotion at work? 

Whether your aspirations revolve around physical and mental well-being, clear decision-making, or something entirely different, journaling can help you get there.

But here's the catch: there's no one-size-fits-all. You have to find what works best for you. And, sure you can do it by yourself. But why go it alone when you can have a supportive ally by your side?

That's where I come in. Together, we'll craft a personalized journaling practice that resonates with you, guiding you toward your aspirations with clarity and authenticity.

Whether we’re working 1:1 or in one of my group journaling experiences, you’ll have the support and accountability to hone your practice, and use it to make your goals and visions come to life. 

My current offerings include:

✍️Journaling for Growth Membership Program 

Our monthly membership program where both beginners and seasoned journalers receive the tools and support they need as they journal for self-discovery and personal growth. With a blend of solo reflection and community journaling sessions, participants find answers they seek, grow in confidence, and design and live lives they love. 

✍️Reclaim Your Narrative

Redefine yourself and design your dream life post-divorce. In this six-month program, we’ll navigate the complexities of life after divorce through a blend of individual sessions, assessment tools, somatic exercises, community journaling sessions, and more. You’ll discover who you are beyond the confines of your past relationship, design a clear vision for the life you desire, cultivate inner strength and self-awareness, develop the skills to deepen your relationships and foster genuine connections with yourself and others, and master your money mindset to ensure stability and security as you move forward. 

Ready to journal your way to a life you love? Send me a DM, and let's get you on your way!

Not ready yet? That's okay! Connect with me and follow my content for journaling resources, tips, and inspiration. 💛

Two things saved me when my marriage ended:

Journaling and exercise.

I turned to them both from the beginning - 

Using my journal to process 
What I was thinking and feeling
And exercise to channel 
The energy from my emotions through my body.

Together, they turned the hardest time of my life
Into something not only manageable
But transformative.

I not only survived my divorce, 
But I thrived.

I took the knowledge I gained from my trainer 
And created my own workout program,

Perfectly tailored to what I wanted to achieve. 
And I kept seeing results. 

I was motivated to keep showing up
To working hard
Because I could see the value in what I was doing. 

But it turns out that I didn't always 
Want to write my own plans.

So I turned to a trainer. 
I had her create workout plans for me.
All I needed was to show up and do the work. 

It saved me loads of time and mental energy 
In deciding what to do -
And I could channel it into actually doing the thing. 

It was the perfect example for me of the old saying:
𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝙘𝙖𝙣, 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙. 

I remind myself of this often - 
Just because I can do my own taxes, 
It doesn't mean I should. 
That's why we have an accountant. 

Just because I can do my own shopping, 
It doesn't mean I should.
That's why when life is busy, 
I get our groceries delivered. 

Just because I can do some basic home repairs, 
It doesn't mean I should.
That's why we have a plumber. 
And an electrician. 
And a mason. 

(And my father-in-law 
Who sometimes can do all of these things!)

Think of the things you 𝘤𝘢𝘯 do but you aren't doing. 

Maybe journaling is one of them. 
Maybe you're not journaling
Because you don't know what to write about. 

Or maybe you ARE journaling, 
But it doesn't always feel effective. 

Maybe you've thought 
You should create a program for yourself
So you always know what to write about. 

You have all the information, for heaven's sake! 
But you just don't get around to doing it. 

(I see you. And in so many areas of my life I am you.)

Why not turn to someone who not only 𝘊𝘈𝘕 do it 
But also loves to do it
And has become an expert at it?

And thrives on helping you
See the magic of journaling in your life
As you embrace it in a way
That works for you.

If your story includes divorce, 
Let's talk about 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲,
Designed to help you:

🪞Reclaim your identity
🔨Craft your future
💪Embrace empowered living
🤝Forge authentic connections
💲Master your money mindset

So you can live the life you truly deserve.

Book a call here to learn more: https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

Divorce not part of your story? 
You might be interested in our
Journaling for Growth Membership Program

Learn more: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ

If you're not sure what you need, 
We can just have a chat: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4

Just because you CAN do this alone,
It doesn't mean you should. 💛


Amanda Stern

It’s no secret that journaling is helpful. Ask anyone - from your therapist to your personal trainer to your Mom to Oprah - and they’ll explain the virtues of journaling. But the common journaling advice, “just write whatever comes to mind” doesn’t work for everyone. 

I’ve talked to so many people over the last few years who are discouraged because they just don’t “get” journaling. They’ve tried it and it hasn’t done much for them. They think that journaling doesn’t work. Or worse, that there’s something wrong with them because they're not getting the results they seek.

My friend, there’s nothing wrong with you. It’s probably that the way you’re journaling isn’t designed to get you the results you’re looking for. And we can fix it. 

Working together, we’ll find your best ways to journal. 

Whether you’re wanting to:

✍️Be more mindful in your life, more present when you’re with the people who matter most
✍️Increase your focus and productivity so you can land the promotion you’ve been wanting at work
✍️Take care of your physical and mental health so you can do all the things on your bucket list
✍️Think clearly so you can make the best decisions for yourself
✍️Or something else entirely 

Journaling can help you get there. 

And, sure, you can go it alone. You can trial and error your way into finding a practice that works for you. 

But you don’t HAVE to do it by yourself. 

I'm on a mission to make the world a better place, one journaler at a time. I can show you how fun and easy it can be to journal your way to your goals, and to do so in a way that feels authentic and true to you!

I provide a range of services from custom journal practice design, support and accountability to magical group journaling sessions that help us build community as we learn and grow together. 

Want to chat about what this could look like for you?
Send me a DM.

Not ready yet? That’s okay! 
Send me a connection request and follow my content for lots of journaling resources, tips, and inspiration. 💛

Easter was the first holiday after my divorce.
And I spent it without my kids. 

It was weird.

After all those years of being in charge of the magic,
I had no children to be magical for. 

Sure, I fixed Easter baskets for them
So they could open them when they got home. 

But there was no Easter egg hunt.
No matching outfits for church. 
No big dinner to fix. 
No playtime. 

There was just...
Me. 

I accepted a late invitation to have dinner 
With a friends' family. 

And while it was lovely,
It just wasn't the same as spending a holiday with my own.

And what made it worse
Was knowing that every holiday moving forward
Could be like that. 

I'm sure I cried. 
I'm sure I felt sorry for myself.
I'm sure I enjoyed a bit of quiet - 
And then felt guilty because I enjoyed it. 

But I made it through. 

My journal kept the record for me. 
And I turned to it when I needed proof
That I could make it through the next holiday
Without my kids. 

That I could survive their first vacation without me. 

Just because my marriage failed
Doesn't mean that I failed. 

And I definitely didn't fail my kids. 

Nine Easters later,
Everyone is home today. 

Easter baskets are prepared,
Waiting for them to come down and open them. 

(Yes, at our house you still get Easter baskets
When you're 21, 19, and 16!)

I've gotten lost down memory lane
Hunting for a specific photo I wanted to share - 

Me and my girls 
In matching homemade Easter outfits
Made of pink ruffled fabric. 

And I'm filled with so much gratitude 
That I made it through that first holiday alone. 

And that I learned I could show up for my kids
Even when they aren't with me. 

And I can always, always 
Show up for myself. 

If divorce is part of your story
And you are looking for support
As you write your next chapter,

Perhaps I can help.

𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 is the program I needed
When I was moving through and past my divorce. 

Now it's available to help you. 

Book a call here to learn more: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav


******
Divorce not part of your story? 
And you've been wanting support with your journaling?

Check out my journaling membership program: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ
Or set up a chat here: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4

******
Image Description: My three children YEARS before my divorce in their Easter clothes. I was so proud of these dresses that I made! 

I had a bird in my attic yesterday.

I'll let you imagine that hilarity that ensued
As we chased it through the house
Trying to direct it to the open windows and doors.

No doubt tired and stressed,
This little bird decided to rest a spell 
On our dining room floor.

I could imagine them thinking:

"Where am I?
How did I get here?
Do I want to stay here?
How am I going to get out?"

Much like what I explored in my journal
When my marriage ended. 

And what I've explored in my journal
Every time I face something hard.

Sometimes in life we make a decision,
Thinking it best for us at the time. 

And sometimes we realize once we've made the decision
And see where we've ended up
That it's not the right place for us after all.

We then get to do the hard work
Of figuring out how to undo it,
How to move forward.

We can get help - 
People can open windows and doors for us to fly through

The work, however, 
Seeing those open windows and doors 
And actually flying through them

Is completely ours. 

I'm grateful we don't have to do our work alone
That we can get support and find community
To help us go further, faster.

If you are looking for support, community
To help you find your way after your divorce - 

𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 is a six-month journal-based program
To support you as you:

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘆 –
Rediscover who you are beyond the confines of your past relationship, gaining clarity and confidence in your individuality.

𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 –
Design a clear vision for the life you desire, equipping yourself with practical tools, strategies, and insights to navigate the journey ahead.

𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 –
Cultivate inner strength and self-awareness, empowering you to thrive professionally and personally.

𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 –
Develop effective communication skills and deepen your relationships, fostering genuine connections with yourself and others where you can show up exactly as you are.

𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗲𝘁 –
Understand your relationship with money and embrace practices for financial well-being, ensuring stability and security as you move forward.

Book a complimentary call here:
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

*****
If your version of stuck
Is not divorce-related

You might be interested in our
Journaling for Growth Membership Program

Learn more: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ

If you're not sure what you need, 
We can just have a chat: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4

You don't have to stay stuck.
And you definitely don't have to feel alone. 💛

Image Description: A starling rests on my dining room floor before making their way back outside.

I’ve always liked rules that make sense. 

They keep us safe and healthy. 
They keep life running smoothly and fairly. 

Rules like storing your carry on luggage 
Properly in the overhead compartments. 

There’s never enough space these days, 
So they’re reserved for big roller bags. 

Small bags, like backpacks,
Go under your seat. 

If we all follow these rules 
There’s enough space for all. 

Yesterday I was on a flight
Where people didn’t follow the rules 
And there wasn’t enough space.

One lady, trying to be helpful,
Rearranged the contents of a bin. 

Including a backpack
(Which belonged under the owner’s seat)

In the process, a water bottle fell out. 
She shoved it in the bin and shut the door. 

I didn’t think much more about it

Until we landed. 
Until someone opened the overhead
And the water bottle fell. 

I didn’t have time to move. 
It clocked me on the head with a thunk

Leaving me with a giant goose egg. 

Everyone gasped in shock,
Looked at me with concern and pity.

I became the person they went home
And told stories about in warning. 

Kind of like when my marriage ended. 

It caught me by surprise 
Like the water bottle I knew was up there
But I didn’t think would hit me. 

Not only was I stunned
So were those around me. 

It was embarrassing
Not the way I like being in the spotlight. 

But I got to choose what I made of it. 

I could let myself crumple,
Cry, wallow

Or I could pick myself up
Put an ice pack on it

And go about my business
Making my life better. 

I chose the latter. 
And so can you. 

𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 is here to help you 
Rewrite your story. 

It’s the first aid kit
The follow up PT
The support and encouragement 
So you can keep going
And be better, stronger than ever. 

Book a call here to learn more: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav


******
Divorce not part of your story? 
And you've been wanting support with your journaling?

Check out my journaling membership program: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ
Or set up a chat here: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4


Image description: The overhead compartments on my connecting flight. Yes, I did count how many backpacks were overhead that shouldn’t be (9). Yes, I did look for stray water bottles. Yes, I did flinch when the bins opened upon landing. Yes, I will be choosing the window seat from now on.

After my divorce, I was a mess financially. 

Not just because I allowed myself 
To be taken advantage of,

But because that relationship did 
Serious damage on how I did money.

You see, I spent eight years as a stay-at-home-mom, 
Not earning any financial contributions 
To our bank accounts.

And my then-husband believed 
That as the breadwinner
He got to determine our financial priorities.

I paid bills, 
But I didn't make real decisions about money.
What I did do was create weird money habits:

Not spending any money on myself, 
Even for things that would have made my life 
Easier, better, or more joyful.

(Except on my impulse trips to Target 
Where I'd buy stuff just to buy stuff 
And then have to hide it before he could see it.)

I shopped sales for everything.

And even on the rare times we went out to eat, 
It was with a gift card or on the early bird menu.

If I had a dollar for every time I ate something 
I didn't want at a restaurant because it was cheaper, 
I'd have a whole lot of dollars.

And it wasn't until after this divorce 
That I realized how awful my money habits had gotten. 

The worst part: 

Money and how I felt were all tangled up together.
My worthiness was tied up 
In how I allowed myself to spend money. 

It was complicated. 
And caused big problems.

When I found myself sobbing at a restaurant 
Because the waitress brought me the wrong meal - 
One $10 more than the one I had ordered -

I knew something had to change. 

It's been a long, hard road,
But money and I are kind of pals now. 

We've come a long way. 
I've come a long way!

It's taken lots of work, lots of soul searching, 
Lots of journaling, lots of help,
But I'm in a way better place - 
Both financially and in general! 

If you have a complicated post-divorce money story
Know you are not alone. 

If you want to untangle your story, 
To make peace with it, 
And write yourself a new story that better serves you, 

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲, 
Our six-month program tailored specifically 
For individuals like you who are ready 
To embark on a journey of self-discovery, 
Empowerment, and reinvention, 

Includes a focus on Mastering Your Money Mindset:

Understand your relationship with money 
And harness practices for financial well-being, 
Ensuring stability and security as you move forward

Book a call here to learn more: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

Image Description: Amanda holds her journal in front of her face, peeking her eye out at the camera.

It's easy to ignore what we don't want to see. 
It's easy to numb ourselves to the truth.
It's easy to pretend everything is fine.

But at some point we have to face reality. 

Because even if we don't choose to face it,
Life may have a way of throwing it in our face. 

Like my marriage. 

I knew in my heart of hearts things weren't good. 
But I didn't want to think about it. 

So I didn't. 
I kept myself busy:

Taking care of our children.
Taking care of our house.
Diving into project after project.
Reading book after book. 

Refusing to slow down long enough to truly see.

I didn't journal much during this period. 
I couldn't. 
It was too painful. 

Because journaling meant I'd have to be honest.
I'd have to actually admit what I didn't want to admit. 

I was unhappy. 

My marriage was a mess. 

And I had become someone so different, 
I could barely recognize myself. 

I denied it for years. 
Because if I admitted the truth,
I'd have to do something about it. 

And I didn't know if I could do that. 
I couldn't imagine what that would look like. 

Thankfully, he was brave enough to make the choice. 
He wasn't delicate about it, 

"I've decided I'd be happier not being married to you." 
Aren't words any woman wants to hear. 

But they brought me back to my journal.
And my journal brought me back to myself. 

It wasn't quick. 
It wasn't easy. 
It wasn't fun. 

But finding myself again
Reclaiming my life as my own
Getting to be me on my own terms

Has been some of the best work I've ever done. 

If this resonates with you,
If you recognize this as your story,
If you don't know how to move forward,
If you don't know how to believe in yourself,

You are not alone. 

𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 is the program I needed
When I was moving through and past my divorce. 

Now it's available to help you:

🪞Reclaim Your Identity 
🔨Craft Your Future 
💪Embrace Empowered Living 
🤝Forge Authentic Connections
💲Master Your Money Mindset 

So you can be the you that you've always known,
Deep down,
That you could be.

Book a call here to learn more: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

******
Divorce not part of your story? 
But support with your journaling sounds like something you need?

Check out my journaling membership program: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ
Or set up a chat here: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4

Video description: My youngest, years ago, dancing at a party. The DJ is playing freeze dance where you have to freeze when the music stops or your out. It's very similar to the game I played and felt so surprised and wronged when I was out. 

Sometimes you just have to put your feet up.

Like when you’ve spent three days at a National conference where you presented in front of 500 people with no notes! 

Or when you’ve worked the exhibit hall drumming up support for the grassroots project you run at your 9-5 that has gone national. 

Or when you’ve treated yourself on your last night in town to a candle making session at a cool place downtown and had dinner with a friendly stranger you met waiting for a table. 

Or when you’ve supported your first mother-in-law through the end of her time on earth. 

Or when you’ve navigated through a divorce you didn’t want it didn’t see coming. 

Or when you’ve supported loved ones through mental health challenges. 

Or when you’ve done all the things for all the people. 

Life is a lot. 

But slowing down is nearly always the answer, no matter how counterintuitive it feels. 

Taking care of you is the most important thing. Because if you’re not taking care of you, it’s hard to keep showing up for those you love. 

Journaling is a fabulous way to take care of you. 

Even if you only have a few minutes. Even if it feels awkward. Even if you’re not sure you’re “doing it right”. 

It’s self-care in and of itself and it also helps identify what other self-care you need. 

Journaling is the foundation of Reclaim Your Narrative, the program I needed when I was getting divorced. 

It’s now here to help you learn how to take care of you, figure out what you want and need, decide who you’re going to be, and make it happen.

Book a call here to learn more: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav


******
Divorce not part of your story? 
And you've been wanting support with your journaling?

Check out my journaling membership program: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ
Or set up a chat here: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4


Image description: Amanda puts her feet up and relaxes at the airport. She almost never posts about her 9-5 here. She’s a librarian. And she’s been quiet here this week because she’s been in Columbus, a cooler city than she could have imagined. She’s on her way home to see her family who have all missed her like crazy. Her goal: fall asleep before takeoff and NOT have any water bottles fall on her head from the overhead bins!

"At any point, did you ever think you had settled?"
I couldn't believe my friend asked me this. 

He had met my husband.
He could obviously see how wonderful he was. 

How could he say such a thing?

But months later, when our divorce was final,
I spent my first kid-free weekend in tears.

Deep in my journal, 
I realized what my friend had suggested was true.

I HAD settled. 

I was so afraid of the future,
What my future would look like,

That I might not get what I wanted
That I took the first decent thing that came along. 

I thought it would make me happy. 

And it didn't. 

By 18 months in, when our first baby arrived
I had an inkling our marriage would end in divorce.

And I was terrified.

What would happen to me?
What would others think?
How would I go on?

Like the proverbial ostrich, sticking it's head in the sand,
I numbed myself

With books -
Reading story after story after story

With projects - 
You name it, I did it

With being busy - 
Doing ALL the things ALL the time
So I wouldn't have to face the reality that was my life. 

THAT'S why I was surprised when my marriage ended.

Not because it actually ended.
But because it didn't happen sooner. 
I thought I had dodged the bullet, that it wouldn't happen. 

But it did.

And I knew I had a choice to make: 

I could allow myself to spiral into negativity
Or I could grab hold of every good thing that came my way.

And I started with my journal,
Making myself write what I was grateful for.

It was really hard. I didn't feel grateful for much.
But I came up with eight things - EIGHT! - 
On the hardest day of my life. 

And I knew then I was going to be okay. 

I knew then I could choose me. 
And with pen in hand, I did.

I journaled my way back to myself. 
I journaled my way into a life I truly deserved.
I journaled my way into the version of me I knew I could be. 

And I will be forever grateful. 

If you're done settling, if you're ready to choose yourself,
𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 is here to help you:

🪞Reclaim your identity
🔨Craft your future
💪Embrace empowered living
🤝Forge authentic connections
💲Master your money mindset

So you can live the life you truly deserve.

Book a call here to learn more: https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

In the morning, my daughter and I stop at Dunkin’ on the way to work to get her breakfast. 

An everything bagel, toasted, with veggie cream cheese.

This morning at the airport, that’s what I ordered when I got hungry. 

But when I looked in my bag, I realized I was responsible for spreading my own cream cheese on my bagel. 

This is not what I expected. 

It’s not what I wanted. 

(I’m not prissy - I just once got food poisoning from spread your own cream cheese on a bagel.)

This reminds me of my marriage. 

I thought I knew what I was getting. 

I got something that seemed similar, but felt so different. I spent a lot of time trying to make the best of it -

Trying to convince myself that there was enough cream cheese for my bagel. That I wouldn’t get sick if I ate it. That it was toasted enough. That it stayed warm long enough for me to enjoy it. 

I fooled myself into thinking it was enough. I tricked myself into thinking that’s all I deserved. I convinced myself I was happy enough. 

But when my marriage ended, I had to face the reality:

There was a better way for me.  

It wasn’t easy. It wasn’t quick. It wasn’t painless. 

But I found my way. And, my friend, so can you.

𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 is the program I needed when I was moving through and past my divorce. 

Now it's available to help you. 

Book a call here to learn more: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav


******
Divorce not part of your story? 
And you've been wanting support with your journaling?

Check out my journaling membership program: https://lnkd.in/emgwgpkJ
Or set up a chat here: https://lnkd.in/eTmtg2C4

Image description: a white paper Dunkin bag with a toasted everything bagel, a pack of veggie cream cheese, and a knife.

Are you grappling with a sense of loss and uncertainty
In the aftermath of your divorce, 
Feeling as though you've lost sight 
Of who you are and where you're headed? 

Maybe you don't recognize 
The person you see in the mirror. 

Maybe you can't even remember
What you enjoy doing when you have time to yourself. 

You might be alone
But you don't have to feel alone.

The transition to life after divorce can be disorienting, 
But it also presents an opportunity 
For profound personal growth and renewal. 

That's why I'm so excited to invite you to join 
𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 - 

A six-month program 
Tailored specifically for individuals like you 
Who are ready to embark on a journey of 
Self-discovery, empowerment, and reinvention.

In this program, 
We'll journey through the complexities 
Of post-divorce life with curiosity and compassion. 

Through a blend of personalized 1:1 sessions,
Insightful assessments, 
Engaging group calls, 
And transformative exercises,

(Yes, journaling too!)

You'll gain the tools and support needed to 
Reclaim your sense of self, 
Map out a clear vision for your future, 
And cultivate authentic connections 
With yourself and others. 

Together, we'll uncover your strengths, 
Navigate challenges, 
And craft a roadmap to not only survive -

But thrive -
In this next chapter of your life.

If you're ready to transform 
Your post-divorce experience 
Into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, 

I invite you to take the first step: 
And learn more about how 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙉𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 
Can support you in redefining your path 
And designing the vibrant, fulfilling life you deserve. 

Your story is waiting to be rewritten, 
And I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Book a complimentary call here: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

Image Description: Amanda smiles as she poses with her brother before the first - and only - 5k she's ever run. It was one of the new things she tried post-divorce. She's not a runner by any stretch of the imagination, but this was hands-down one of the best days she's ever spent with her brother. 

You didn't know what to do when your marriage ended. 
You didn't know how to feel.

All the hard feelings - 
Shame, hurt, anger, disappointment, fear, grief, 
Loneliness, humiliation, overwhelm (and more)

Rushed in, 
Swirled around,
Tried to pull you under. 

And you had a choice -

Face it head on
Or ignore it.

Facing it all is really hard.
It takes serious work.
And you'll probably cry. A lot. 

But ignoring it is really hard too
Even though it feels easier. 

In the moment, it feels so good to forget - 

Through drinking, binging TV, emotional eating,
Compulsively reading romance novels, 
A new obsession with exercise,
Whatever your numbing behavior of choice.

But eventually you have to face your situation. 
Eventually you have to decide who you're going to be. 

It's your choice. 

You don't have to
Numb yourself out of fear
Resent those who are still married
Chasing the wrong people so you don't have to be alone
Lose sleep catastrophizing and worrying your life will never get better

You have more power than you realize. 

You can make your post-divorce journey 
The start of your own personal transformation.

You can rediscover yourself
Rebuild your life
And realize your full potential. 

And you don't have to do it alone. 

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 is a six-month journaling-based program
To help you on your journey of 
Self-discovery, empowerment, and reinvention.

If you're feeling called to:

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘆 – 
Rediscover who you are beyond the confines of your past relationship, gaining clarity and confidence in your individuality.

𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 – 
Design a clear vision for the life you desire, equipping yourself with practical tools, strategies, and insights to navigate the journey ahead.

𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 – 
Cultivate inner strength and self-awareness, empowering you to thrive professionally and personally. 

𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 – 
Develop effective communication skills and deepen your relationships, fostering genuine connections with yourself and others where you can show up exactly as you are.

𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗲𝘁 –
Understand your relationship with money and embrace practices for financial well-being, ensuring stability and security as you move forward. 

Then we should talk.

Book a complimentary call here: 
https://lnkd.in/eWFeDgav

Image Description: Less than three weeks after my marriage ended, I attended a cousin's wedding with my family. I'm smiling. But I'm not really smiling. It was the last place I wanted to be. I was the last person I wanted to be. But I made it through. And so will you. 💛

Journaling and...Defeating Your Saboteurs

Join me and my friend Mike D'Angelo for some real talk about saboteurs and how we can defeat them once and for all.

Magic. 
That's the only word I have for what happens
When we journal together. 

We take time for ourselves.
We hold space to each other. 

We learn and grow
Separately and together. 

If you've been wanting some magic in your life,
We invite you to join us.

Register at https://lnkd.in/eTPmkcH5 for the link.

Taplio

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