The Truth About Coaching

You don’t need a coach.

You are naturally creative. Brilliant. Whole. Intelligent.  Resourceful.  Wonderful.

You don’t need me or anyone else to rescue you.

You don't need a hero.

Because you are not a victim.

You don't need a coach.

In fact, nobody needs a coach.

As a business owner, it’s a scary thing telling you that you don’t need me.

Perhaps it’s business suicide.

Maybe you’re wondering why I don’t just close up my business and go back to my 9-5 since nobody needs a coach.

I’ll always be honest with you. I truly believe nobody needs a coach.  And I’m not in the business of pressuring someone to work with me. Ever.

Ok. So if nobody needs a coach, why is coaching one of the fastest growing industries in the world?

(And why, Lisa, are you so confident your business has a purpose and will survive?)

The answer lies here below.

It’s the same reason why top athletes have coaches.

It’s why 6 out of 10 companies offer coaching to their management and executives.

It’s why another 20% of companies plan to offer coaching in the next year.

It’s why kick-ass people doing incredible things in our world seem to have one thing in common – they all have coaches.  You can count Oprah Winfrey, Serena Williams and Bill Clinton in this category.

It’s because coaching is a shortcut to success. 

Don’t believe me?  Even the Harvard Business Review says “coaching is about developing the capabilities of high-potential performers”. 

Coaching isn’t for the mediocre.  The normal.  The average.

Coaching is for high performers who want more in their lives.

High-potential people like you who aren’t satisfied with the status quo.

They, like you, are after more.

More growth. More positivity.  More change.  More results.  More momentum. More confidence.  More time. Deeper happiness.

And coaching brings you more.

My clients are no exception.

My clients don't need me. 

They want to grow and become better humans.  They want to work with me.   They know a working with a coach shortens their timeline to success. 

Working with me, they increase confidence.  They gain clarity over their next steps.  They achieve goals and dreams they have had for years but never made time for.

Until we worked together.

Clients have lost weight during our time together.  Started blogs and businesses.  Expanded their businesses.  Made thousands of more dollars in their careers.   Taken a vacation for the first time in four years. 

None of this is because they needed it.

It’s because they wanted it.

And they were willing to take action to get what they wanted.

They want nothing but the best for their lives and they are getting it.

My clients aren't willing to sit back and wait for another year to go by before they realize they want to be happier. 

They don't have time to not make time for the important things in life. Like themselves.  Their family.   Their dreams of a business. Their dreams of travel.   Their goals of loving their career.

I only work with inspiring and committed clients. I work with those who are willing to invest in themselves to create the very best lives.  And invest to become their very best selves. 

If this is you and you think coaching might be what you need in your development and your life, request a complimentary discovery call. I only have a few spaces left this week for those who are committed to living a better life.

If you are ready for success on your terms, coaching might be right for you.

If you know there's more out there for you, let's connect and see if coaching is that next step in your wild, amazing life.

If you aren't interested in change, don't get in touch.

If you aren't willing to commit yourself to the process, close this window. 

If you aren’t ready to invest in yourself, keep the status quo.

If you aren't looking to grow, coaching isn't for you.

If you don't want to be your best self, stop reading.

If in three months, one year, five years you might still struggling with the same challenges, and you are ok with that, I know coaching isn't for you.

If you don't need a coach, you’re right.  No one does. 

If you want a coach, you know where to find me.

For the high-potential go-getter, I’m here for you.

For the high-performing doer, I’d love to hear from you.

Your best life is the one you’re willing to go get.

-Lisa

Success Coach

www.lisamichaud.com

PS.  If you agree that you don’t need a coach, but you want a coach, I’d love to connect.  Get in touch here and let’s have a free Discovery Session to find out what you want in your life and how we can get you there!  Let’s chat to break down the barriers.  To inspire you to get more out of your life.  To show you what’s possible when you are willing to invest in yourself and your dreams.  I only have a few spaces left for this week and a space is yours if you want it (because I know you don’t need it). 

The "c" word you can't say at work

Have you ever said the c-word at work?
 
 
No... not that c-word.  
 
 
I’m talking about:
 
 

Creative.
 
 
 
In my last three jobs, I worked in a company where the need and desire for creativity was significantly downplayed.  I worked in an industry where the dominant personalitywithin it was someone who was logical, analytical and methodical.  (For any Meyers Briggs-nerds like myself, my company was full of ISTJ’s -  Introverted. Sensing. Thinking. Judging.). 
 
 
What was valued was:

• Dedication
• Loyalty
• Stability
• Rationalization
• Thinking 
• Calculations
• Reasonableness
• Logic
• Spreadsheets (ooo, don’t I love them too!?)

 

In meetings, thinking outside the box wasn't highly regarded.  Launching never-before-done projects wasn’t something that got people jazzed up.
 
 
No no-one will ever tell you that creativity isn’t valued.
 
No-one sat me down on the first day, or even the last and said that trying new things wasn’t allowed.  Or that inventiveness wasn’t appreciated.
 
 
But the culture was one in which thinking too differently, or voicing too many ideas and suggestions made people uncomfortable.
 
 
We all conform to the traits that are valued and rewarded in a company.  Consciously, or not, we pay attention to the type of people who get promoted.  This is what creates a culture, in an organization, and in countries around the world.  We notice the character traits that are recognized and acknowledged.  We pick up on qualities that are appreciated.  And those that aren’t.
 
 
 
I paid attention.
 
 
 
Creativity was never a word that came up when a promotion was on the table.  Uniqueness, originality, boldness wasn’t recognized.  
 
 
It wasn’t really worth trying something new because it probably wasn’t going to be approved.
 
 
So we didn’t try to be daring. Or unique. Myself included.
  
 
I distinctly recall the words “I’m not creative” coming out of my mouth at work.  More than once.
 
 
And that’s devastating to me. 
 
 
Have you ever asked a group of five-year-olds to raise their hand if they’re creative?  They almost all leap out of their chairs to stick their arms in the air.  They’re all creative!  And gosh darn it, they want you to know it!!
 
 
Now, imagine asking a group of 16-year-olds if they’re creative.  Guess how many are jumping out of their seats?  (Conservative estimates say that number drops to zero).   And a whole lot less put their hands up at all.
 
 
How about your workplace?   Would you put up your hand?  Would you cautiously wait to see if anyone else did first?  I’m going to guess that number is pretty low. 
 
 

Let me be clear:  This is not a blast about the company or industry I worked in. This was not unique to the team I worked on, or to the job I had. 
 
 

Lack of creativity is a problem in our world today.
 
 

As children, we are full of creative energy.  We’re bursting with it. We all believe we are imaginative.  And because we believe we are imaginative, we bring imagination into everything we do.  We are proud of it. That is, in part, because we have not yet experienced embarrassment from failure, or faced criticism from our peers.  
 
 
In adults, the fear of failing has set in.  We have been humiliated in the past.  And often, we protect ourselves from the fear and embarrassment.  Sadly, this comes at an incrediblyly high cost  - the cost of hundreds, thousands, even millions of fantastic great ideas that could change your life – your company – and the world.
 
 

And I’m ready to change that for myself.  And for you too.
 
 

Creativity deserves to make a comeback at work, and at home, because it's what's needed to progress.  To move forward in life. To achieve goals. To overcome obstacles. To solve problems.  To get promotions (even if it doesn't always seem like it).  To build relationships. 

And because creativity is fun, when we stop taking ourselves so seriously. 



Being creative in my last job was a liability so I let the artistic, imaginative part of me hide.  And I've been proud of my logical thinking, rational calculations and steady nature.   
 
Don't get me wrong. These are all wonderful traits.
 
 
 
I’m grateful for the chance to expand my analytical, consistent side of my brain. 
 
 
 
But I have been missing out on the gifts of creativity.   
 
 
 
I had almost forgotten that I even HAVE creativity within me.
 
 
 
Until, I was forced to get creative. 
 
 
Moving to a new city encouraged me to try new, creative activities.  Belly-dancing and painting have gotten me out of my logical brain and awakened the inspiring side of myself.
 
 
Starting my business required me to get creative. I designed my own website and branding.  I write to you lovely people!  I have created tools and resources to help others find the life they love.  I have dreamed of what my business can become.
 
 
I’ve been reminded that I am creative.  
 
 
And then inspired to make my designs, my writing, my tools, my dreams, all happen. 
 
 
Being logical doesn't mean you can't have new ideas. 
 
 
Being smart doesn't mean you can't make mistakes and have bad ideas sometimes. 
 
 
Being planful doesn't mean you can't challenge convention.  (And yes, planful is a word over 100 years old that has been resurrected in modern business jargon).
 
 
Being rational doesn’t mean you can’t use your imagination.
 
 
Being analytical doesn’t mean you always have to be right. 
 
 
In fact, my logical, executing, planning side is what's made my creativity come to life!!!
 
 
But without the ideas and the inspiration, there’s nothing to GAANT chart.  Nothing to spreadsheet.   Nothing to analyze.
 
 
And nothing to design.  
 
 
 
Ingenuity.  Innovation.  Invention.  Originality.  Resourcefulness.  
 
 
 
To be your best self, you need to bring all of yourself to the table. 
 
 
 
Think back to your five-year-old self.  Would you have raised your hand? 
 
 
How about at sixteen years old?  
 
 
How about today?
 
 
 
 
I believe the level of creativity we possess is directly correlated to the level of credit we give ourselves for being creative.  Our ideas match the willingness with which we are comfortable to say "I am creative."  
 
 
Creativity is a skill. It’s not a natural gift you’ve either been graced with or not.  It’s a muscle that you need to work in order to grow, improve and develop.
 
 
Saying you are creative doesn't mean you have to be the most creative person.
 
 
Saying you’re creative means you are allowing yourself to have new ideas.  To try the unconventional.  It means you’re bringing ALL your value.  And all your value means you’re going to make a difference.
 
 
This week, get in touch with your imagination.  

• Take a moment and think about what makes you feel creative.  Write it down. Reply back to my email and tell me if you like.
• Track the moments and activities that make you feel creative through the week
• Tell one person that you are creative (or even “practicing to be more creative” if that feels more true for you!)

 
Now, do at least five things that make you feel creative. This week.
 

• Challenge an assumption.  Whether it’s at home, in the workplace, or within yourself.  Ask yourself what’s possible if something you assume to be true, isn’t.   And watch the world open up.
• Find opportunities to do more of the things that light you up, inspire you, and challenge you to step outside your comfort zone.
• Foster curiosity and ask a question you normally wouldn’t.  Maybe it’s asking a stranger waiting in line with you what they’re looking forward to about the long weekend.  Perhaps you now have an excuse to ask a not-so-obvious question at work.   Try genuinely learning something new, because you dared to ask someone to teach you.

 
 
Originality doesn't have to come out only in a job.  There are many ways to spark your connection to creativity.   
 
If you can't think of anything, reflect on what made you feel happy and creative as a child.  
 
 
If you’re still stuck, here’s some more ideas to get to five things this week:
 

• Learn something new.  Take a pottery class. Dance class.  Cooking lessons. Sign up to learn a new language or play a musical instrument
• Doodle (there’s new evidence to show it actually keeps you engaged in the moment)
• Journal
• Move your body instead of brainstorming sitting down.  Go for a walk.  Stretch for 10 minutes.  Play a round of golf.  Pump up the music and dance around the office. 
• Join a paint night (there’s usually wine involved to expand that comfort zone a bit)
• Start a blog or write a new post
• Build something creative using toys like lego or play-doh.  Try leaving them at your desk for moments you need a splash of distraction
• Write a poem
• Plan a fun date with a friend or your significant other
• Sign up for Toastmasters and speak in public
• Build a custom spreadsheet (yup, there are no rules as long as it actually inspires you and makes you feel innovative)
• Try the 30 circles exercise (from researcher Bob McKim and Tim Brown’s TED talk Creativity and Play). 
  • Draw 30 circles on a piece of paper
  • In one minute, change as many circles are you can into objects.
    • Ex. One can be a sun. One can be a globe.
  • How many can you do in a minute? (Take quantity over quality)
  • More people struggle getting to 30. Adults tend to self-edit, while children simply explore possibilities. Allow yourself to go with your first thoughts and play!

 
 
Practice that creativity.  Stretch that imagination.  Grow your resourcefulness.
 
 
See, regardless of the job you have, the company you work for, or the culture you are in, creativity is not a dirty word. 
 
 
It's needed for us to live a full and unique life.  
  
 
 
Imagination is required in our world.
 
 
 
It helps us adapt. 
 
Creativity helps us survive change.
 
Innovation allows us to solve the challenges in today’s world. 
 
Vision enables us to imagine and create a better world for tomorrow.
 
 
If you fast-forwarded twelve months and your job/department/company was still struggling to solve the same problem you’re working on today, how would you feel?
 
If you looked ahead five years and our world hadn’t changed a bit, would you be disappointed?
 
If you woke up in ten years and your life was exactly the same as it is today, what would you differently today?
 
 
If neither of those scenarios excite you, it’s time to open up to inspiration and creativity. 
 
 
Let it guide you as you create the life, adventures, and experiences that have you looking at life knowing you lived it wonderfully.  Let inspiration allow you be courageous and know that you will overcome the challenges and obstacles that come your way.
 

 And allow yourself to know that the best is yet to come.  Because you’re going to create it. 
 
 
Now it’s my turn to go doodle and dance.
 
 

- Lisa
Success Coach
www.lisamichaud.com

PS - Our support system is one of the MOST important parts of our life.  If you know someone who could also use more creativity in life, pass it on to him or her.  Challenge each other - and get creative together.  They will thank you for it (and so do I)!
 

This gift is for you. Take it.

I have a gift for you! 

It starts with a gift I was given.

Two years ago, there was a chance I had terminal cancer.

You may not all know this, but at the age of 27, I faced the realization that I might only have a year or two left to live. Since then, my life has entirely changed.

I remember coming home and laying in bed with my husband Troy that night and talking about what we would do if I only had one year left to live.

The first thing that came to my mind was "move to Vancouver."

I was lucky. I didn’t have cancer. 

BUT I'm so glad I had this wake-up call.  This experience was a gift to me.

Because I realized this:

I was waiting for someone to tell me that I was going to die before I started doing the things I really wanted to do. 

 

And that needed to stop.  Stat.

I made a commitment to start living today.  Before my time is up and it’s too late for my dreams. 

I finally took that trip to Thailand I'd wanted to do for years. (I literally had a guidebook from 2007 collecting dust).

I quit my six-figure job.

I sold my house, cars and moved to my dream city, Vancouver.

And I decided I would start the business I always wanted - helping people like you live success on your terms NOW!

One of the things I’ve learned is that we put off our biggest dreams in life, often until it’s too late. 

I know why you aren’t achieving your goals. 

You’re too busy. 

You don’t have the money. 

You’re still too young. 

You’re too old. 

You don’t have time.

You might fail.  

You have responsibilities.  Student Loans.  Kids. Mortgages. “Real life.”

You don’t know how.

Now isn’t the right time.

It will be easier to do later.  

It’s not possible. 

It’s too much effort.

It’s not even worth it.

I understand.

I’ve set some goals and haven’t achieved them.

I’ve achieved some goals and it turned out, they didn’t actually make me that happy.

I’m human.  And I’ve made the same mistakes and excuses too. 

Before my health scare, I was happy enough.  I had a pretty good job that allowed me to learn, work with interesting people, and paid me really well!  

I had an awesome husband who wanted nothing more than for me to be happy. We had a gorgeous home, several cars, toys, and a hot tub. 

We travelled – a lot.  We had been to 24 countries together and we were always jetting off to incredible places like Iceland, Fiji, Vancouver, New York and Las Vegas. 

I was surrounded by an awesome circle of friends, the kind that became family.

Life was pretty damn good.

But it wasn’t what I truly, deeply wanted.  

I thought my excuses were real.

Why give up everything I have?  

Life’s pretty good, I would tell myself.

Is the grass actually greener?  Probably not.

It’s not even possible for me to live in Vancouver.

I would tell myself I could never make as much money as I am now or create my own business to match my income. And I definitely couldn’t live on less, even if I wanted to.

I am luckier than 95% of the world. Why am I still not happy?!  There must be something wrong with me.

And yet, after my health scare, I knew I needed to make a change.

I let go of my excuses.  I took a good, deep, hard look at myself and my life.  I spent time to understand what it was that I truly wanted in my life.

See… I DO know how to set goals.  And achieve them.

I have accomplished goals with a lot of grit.   And strategy.

I’ve studied and learned how to set incredible goals.  I’ve refined my process over the years. 

And now I want to share those secrets with you.

When I started my business, I committed to creating surprises and tools to help women and men create success on their terms.  And I will deliver on that, always.

If you’re frustrated with where you are in life...

frustrated because you can’t seem to get traction on your goals,

or you’re satisfied but not TRULY elated about your life

- This special gift is just for you!

I’ve created a brand-new, exclusive 3-part video training series, as a completely free resource for you.  In it, I reveal the top 3 powerful steps you must take before you set another goal.

These steps have helped me:

• Earn six figures (and then give that up for the best reason - to create my own high income!)
• Travel to more than 30 countries before I turned 30 (32 countries and counting…)
• Run five half marathons.
• Marry the love of my life.
• Quit my 9-5
• Start my dream business (yes, this is seriously a dream!!)
• Hit the “usual” steps – degree, job, house, husband, car, and joy!
• Become a self-made millionaire before I turned 30
• Move to and create an incredible penthouse home in my favourite city in the world, Vancouver
• Understand what my purpose is in my business
• Build an unbelievable group of friends and huge network to work with, play with and laugh with!
• Become a keynote speaker, motivating audiences of all ages and backgrounds
• Work with incredible, inspiring entrepreneurs and clients every day!

I’ve put together what I’ve learned and the tools to get you started today!

Don’t make the same mistake I made. Don’t wait for someone to tell you you’re going to die to start doing what you really want in life.

In this free video and workbook series, you will:

• Learn why you get the nagging feeling there’s something missing
• Finally prioritize so you can get the RIGHT sh*t done
• Set goals that you’re actually motivated to accomplish!

You'll uncover:

• Why you haven't gotten your goals yet
• What's most important in your life
• What goals you should be setting
• What you need to say "no" to
• What you need to say "yes" to get your dream life!

So far, I have only shared this information with my handpicked group of Goal-Den Girls right here in Vancouver, and my highly invested 1x1 private clients.

And I’m BEYOND excited to share this with you today!

As always, let me know how it goes. You know I love hearing from you, so get in touch!

Open this gift if you’re ready to start achieving the dreams you’ve been putting off and living your life.  

Set goals to achieve the life you want.  

Start living life your life today!

This is just the beginning. 

Love,

Lisa 

Success Coach

www.lisamichaud.com

PS.   Before you leave, don’t forget to grab the top 3 BEST secrets and steps to stop procrastinating and finally get your dream life in this Free Video & Workbook Series gift.  You’re going to want to click on the link today because it is only available for a limited time. 

Stop wasting time and go get your goals! Take this powerful first step towards what you really, really want in your life.

If you have a soul sister or brother-from-another-mother that you know could use this free gift, feel free to send him or her the link to this influential training series

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Your success comes at this price. Are you willing to pay it?

I need to be open and honest with you. 

This post was difficult to write.  I was stuck on what to say.  And what to share.  I was worried about what to talk about.

I realized that I was terrified. I recognized that I was scared. I didn’t know what to write. 

It turns out, I’m fearful that the next thing I write is going to suck.

See, I work REALLY hard to make sure I share interesting, inspiring and life changing content with you.  I care a lot about making my newsletter and my blog valuable to you. 

I want you to read what I share and feel inspired. I want you to try something new because of something I said.  I want you to learn and have your life enriched from my insights.  I want you to get excited about your life and create change because of a challenge I’ve given you.

Sometimes it’s hard. Writing doesn’t always come easy for me. 

Even though it’s a great challenge, I’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback lately. People are sharing my content and commenting on it (thank you, thank you, thank you!). And I couldn’t be more grateful for it.

I love hearing from you and knowing my words are making a difference in your life. It’s exactly what I want to do.  It’s my goal.  That is what “success” is to me.

I am honoured to say my newsletter and blog have had some success.

But “success” has upped the ante for me. Now there are expectations that I need to meet.  Standards to uphold.  Results I should be exceeding. 

And now I’m afraid.

I’m scared that sometimes you won’t like what you’re reading.

I’m worried that suddenly everyone is going to stop listening to me.

I’m nervous that I’m going to run out of things to say. 

I had an epiphany.   

My fear is killing my creativity.

My fear is stifling my ability to help others. 

My fear is getting in the way of the important messages I want to share with you.

Do you ever feel this way?

If you’re reading this, I’m guessing you’re smart.  You’re committed to living a great life.  You’re driven.  You’ve got goals and high standards for yourself.  

You’ve probably achieved a ton of awesome things in your life.  You’re probably “successful” already.

But success doesn’t always breed self-confidence like you might think it does.

Sometimes success makes you scared of failing. 

Can you relate? 

This is the wall I hit today.  If you’ve hit this wall today, or in the past, or if you hit this in the future, this is for you.

Recently, a client shared a beautiful video with me.  You may have seen it yourself.  The video is of Sara Blakely, the CEO of Spanx, sharing her perspective on failure. (If you haven’t seen the video or need a little re-inspiration, check it out here).

When Sara was growing up, her father would ask her:

 “What have you failed at lately?”

She would be encouraged to share things she had tried that did not work.

Their failures were celebrated. 

Failure was redefined.  In her life, failure became not trying.

Failure is not starting the business you want to.

Failure is not trying out for the play you want to be in.

Failure is not applying for the job you want, even if you think it’s out of your reach.

Failure is not asking for the promotion or raise you believe you deserve.

Failure is not writing and sharing what you believe will help others.

So here’s my message today, as I’m feeling afraid to fail.

Here’s my message for you, anytime you’re feeling afraid to fail.

It’s impossible to grow and change without the doubt, fear and uncertainty trying to hold you back.

Therefore, you need to push through that anxiety, nervousness, and fear.

Fear is a part of the process.  When you play a bigger game, your doubt gets louder.  Your fear growls deeper.  Your uncertainty grows legs and attempts to make you run away.

Instead of running and hiding, I need to embrace it.  Embrace the fear as a sign I’m being courageous.  Welcome the doubt as the mark that I’m creating change in my life.

And celebrate it.

Here’s the thing: I’m going to have some failures. 

Failure is the price of success.  There is no success without the failures that come before the achievement.  Failures always come with success.  And that's ok. 

One day, someone’s not going to like what I write.  (Maybe that day is today, and that person is you).

One day, I’ll write something that sucks.  (This also could be today).

One day, people will unsubscribe.  (I hope this isn’t today).

But if I keep working for it, continue gritting through, it’s inevitable that:

My message will make someone’s day.

My writing will be shared with someone who needs it.

People who believe in my insights will sign up for my newsletter.

I will change someone’s life.

When I think about “success” on these terms, I’m not (as) afraid of the failures I will have.

You will fail.  I will fail.  

If I need to try - and fail - in order to succeed, that's what I need to do. 

If you want to succeed (who doesn't?!), then you will need to try and fail too.

This is my challenge to you. And my challenge to myself.

Every week:

• Try something new.  For better or worse, try.  I will put myself out there.  I will learn.  I will get comfortable with failing again. 
• Find a friend (or email me!) to share what you failed at.
• Celebrate failure.  High-five someone who’s failed.  High-five yourself.

Do this for one month. Until September 10th.  I know you can do it – and I’ll be checking in on you then.

Look forward to your failure.  Redefine your failures.  Take yourself lightly.  

Put yourself out there.  Start.  Try.  Ask.  Write.  Apply. 

Watch what happens when you get comfortable with failing.  I can’t wait to see your courage shine through… and the inevitable success that will follow.

Humbly failing forward (and often!)

 - Lisa

Success Coach 

www.lisamichaud.com

PS.  At least with this new mindset, I know if this newsletter bombs, at least I’m ready for this week’s “failure chat” with my husband.  #win-win  #failtosucceed

Is this destroying your dream?

This week marks the one-year anniversary of my husband Troy and I moving to Vancouver.   This weekend is always a special time in Vancouver. It’s Pride Weekend, and the Celebration of Lights, a huge 3-night Fireworks Competition.  Needless to say, it’s a fantastic time to celebrate our anniversary – and we will get to do it each and every year!!! 

Our one-year anniversary is a big deal to me.   It’s a big deal because I like celebrations and don’t think that there are enough of them in life.  So we’re celebrating. 

This milestone is also significant because I never EVER thought it would happen. 

My love for Vancouver has run deep in me for a long time.  As a child, we’d always travel to Vancouver for concerts, dance competitions and band camp (yup, I was that cool in high-school).  Each time, I LOVED being in the city.  I would stay up late at night, listening to music while staring out the window at the city lights.  I would dream about the sound the Sky-Train makes (the subway system in Vancouver).  I was endlessly fascinated by the culture, the history, and hopes for the future – my future - in Vancouver.

Even as I grew up, when I visited, friends would tell me I came alive and relaxed when I was in Vancouver.

I’ve always loved the city.  And I’ve always wanted to live there. 

BUT, despite my love, for years, I told myself that I would never move to Vancouver. 

I couldn’t live in Vancouver.  

It was too expensive. 

My husband couldn’t find work there.  

I wouldn’t be able to make money in Vancouver.  

So as pretty as Vancouver is, as much as I loved Vancouver, I accepted that it was nothing but a fantasy for me. 

Recently, I reflected on my journey to moving here.  I realized that I not only told myself these stories, I would gladly tell anyone who would listen.

I would always tell others “oh, Vancouver is so expensive.  No-one can afford to live there.”   

When they’d ask why I didn’t move back to BC, my response was almost automatic.

“I can’t move there.  I don’t know how people can afford to live in Vancouver. It’s impossible to get ahead there.”   

While yes, Vancouver IS expensive, I realized that the reason I would always say this (and believe it!) is because I was jealous of people who DID live in Vancouver.

I was jealous.  I needed a “logical” reason to explain why I didn’t live there.

It was easy to say “it’s too expensive”. 

It’s much harder to state the reality which was:

 “I haven’t figured out how to live there yet. 

And right now, I’m not brave enough to give it a try.”

It was easier to say “people in Vancouver are barely getting by so I will never move back” than to get brave and declare “I’m going to figure out how to thrive in Vancouver.”

In the end, thinking it was too expensive was about my own jealousy and ego.  I wasn’t trying to be cruel. I wasn’t trying to be malicious. I thought I was protecting myself and others from moving there and going broke. 

My intent was not to be hateful or spiteful.  But I realize now that I was crushing not only my dream, but the dreams of others.  

So here’s what I want for you.  If you have a dream and you’re holding back, here’s what I wish I had heard years ago.

If you are farther from your dream than you want to be, ask yourself:

• Why am I not living my dream?

• What is holding me back?

• Why am I waiting?

• Who is telling me I shouldn’t be living my dream?

If someone else is destroying your dream, realize that their message has more to do with themselves than it does with you.

If you believe in your dreams but others around you continue to tell you it’s not possible, recognize it’s not you.  It’s them.  And it’s their problem.

It may be their jealousy coming through (as I’m sure mine did). 

It could be them trying to protect you.

Just know that it has more to do with them than it has with you.

What if, like me, you are HOLDING YOURSELF back? 

If YOU are destroying your own dreams, acknowledge it.  If there’s something in your life you do want to do, but YOU are telling yourself you can’t, recognize it.

Then get out of your own way.  

And go get your dreams.

Now ask yourself:

• What would my life be like if I was living my dream?

• How important is it to me?

• How is my dream possible?

• What will I do to make my dream come true?

• When will I do it by?

Perhaps the most profound thing Vancouver has taught me is that DREAMS are POSSIBLE.  

Anything is possible when you ask “how is it possible?”

Just over one year ago, my husband and I asked ourselves this question.  How is Vancouver possible?

Vancouver has been possible by selling and downsizing our house.

It’s possible by choosing to leave our jobs.

It’s possible if I start a new business.

It’s possible if Troy gets a new job.

It’s possible if we live in a smaller space.

It’s possible if we stop telling ourselves it’s impossible.

It’s possible when we get out of our own way.

It’s possible when we tell ourselves IT IS POSSIBLE!  

I have lived in Vancouver for a year now.  It was not an easy move to make.  We left incredible friends behind.  We left “great jobs”.  In Vancouver, the housing market is aggressive and it is expensive. 

But it has been so worth it. 

Vancouver was my dream and I still wake up every day grateful to be here.   Every morning, there are yoga mats, craft beer, beaches and hikes with my name on them.  There are new experiences, adventures, challenges, and opportunities for me to learn from and dive into. 

And there’s a bounce in my step.  The kind that comes when real life is even better than the dreams we have for ourselves.

I know it’s possible for you too.

 - Lisa

Success Coach 

www.lisamichaud.com

PS. The first step is always the hardest.  I know how hard it was for me to make such a huge change.  Having people support you can make or break it.  Ask for the support if you need it.  And if you have a friend who needs to hear this message (and needs your support), share this with them.  It could change their life and have them doing a happy dance. Every. Single. Day. 

Girl's night wasn't supposed to end like this

As soon as the words came out of my mouth, I instantly regretted them. I shouldn’t have suggested it.  What a stupid idea that was, Lisa.

It was supposed to be a fun girl's night and I just screwed it up.

Girl’s nights have a special place in my heart.  Truth be told, my affinity for girl’s nights probably comes from the fact that I am incredibly blessed with intelligent, brilliant, kind, wonderful friends. If you’re one of them, you know I’m talking about you!

My circle of friends is a very driven bunch.  We love setting goals, we love achieving goals, and supporting each other to be our best selves.  As a result, our goal nerdiness sometimes comes out.  (We’ve been known to call ourselves GoalDen Girls, and Goal-Diggers… we’re pretty hilarious!).  

One particular Friday night, we decided to get together over some wine and do some goal setting. 

Unlike other girl’s nights, the goal was not to see how many bottles of wine we could drink (as my husband Troy often jokes).

This one was intended to enjoy each other’s company and establish goals… with a glass of wine in our hands.

Earlier that week I’d read an interesting article.  It suggested asking those closest to you what they would do if they were in control of your life.  It also highly recommended being open to the responses.

So, because I love peculiar questions, I proposed it to the group.

“Ladies, I know this is kind of off-the-goals-topic, but what would you do if you were in control of my life?   And while we’re at it, can I tell you what I would do with your life?”

Awkward silence.

Nervous looks at each other across the table.

My ego kicked in here.  “Jeez Lisa, why did you have to go and ruin such a fun night?  Why are you so weird?!”

There was four of us around the table.

Two of us loved the idea (myself included).

The other two continued to look at me like I was crazy.  

In hindsight, I don’t blame them.

As we broke out of the awkward interruption, we started chatting.  My friends shared that they were nervous about this question– and rightfully so. They were unsure about what could possibly come from this, and what kind of wild ideas we’d have for them.  They were willing to share their insights but didn’t really want to know what we would do with their lives.

Fair enough.

We agreed that the two of us who were excited to try it would start.

By the end of the exercise, we were all in tears, laughter, smiles, and most of all, in even deeper love with each other.

This was one of the most beautiful conversations of my life. Coming from a woman who converses with people for a living (and is a chatterbox the rest of the time), this is saying something.

What transpired was genuine, heartfelt compliments.  Sincere wishes for happiness, joy, and passion in each other’s lives.  Poignant insights on what is possible for each of us, possibilities beyond what we could have conceived for ourselves.

To this day, we still bring up “aha moments” that were sparked from that question and its responses.  Often, one of us will comment that someone’s words continue to touch them.  And changed their perspectives forever.

I understand asking this question puts you in a very vulnerable place.  But, if Brene Brown has taught us anything, it’s that vulnerability is fabulous and we all need to have more of it.  (Side note – if you haven’t heard of Brene Brown, schedule her TedTalk for your lunch break… no seriously). 

Asking others to weigh in and provide feedback on anything is tough. It’s nerve-wracking. It’s anxiety inducing.

But what do you learn without feedback? 

The answer is: Not much.

I challenge you this week, to ask two or three people in your life that are close to you,

“What would you do if you were in control of my life?”

You can ask it as a general question.  You can ask it as a specific question, as in what “would you do with my career if you were in control”.    Or “what would you have me experience next in my life if you were in control?”  Nothing is off-limits. 

There is only one rule.

You have to listen. 

Listen to learn.  Listen to become wiser. Listen to expand your perspective of what’s possible for you.

Because we all have voices that tell us we aren’t good enough… or that a certain dream isn’t possible for us.

Because the day-to-day can get mundane and we forget that we are valuable, incredible, resourceful human beings.

Because sometimes we need to hear the truth from someone else.

Because sometimes hearing a new idea will spark us to a completely new direction.

Because sometimes being told you should do things differently reminds you of why you truly want what you want – and reminds you that you ARE on the right path today.

I said you have to listen.  But you don’t have to obey.  It’s still your life. You’re still in the driver’s seat (yes, you are!).   It’s just that now your blindspots are disappearing.  Suddenly, the roads you can take in your life got wider, and go in new, exciting directions.

Which way you choose to drive the car, and steer your life, is still your choice.

If someone asks you this question, be honest.   Be kind.  Don’t tell them what you think they want to hear.  Tell them what in your heart you believe, and what you believe will help them grow.

Say thank you.  Thank you to the person who asked you the question, for trusting you with such a precious and vulnerable opportunity.  Say thank you to the person who gave you their thoughts and ideas, because they trusted you enough to share their honest truth.

I challenge you to go forth.  To elevate and be elevated.  To expand possibilities and be expanded upon.  To imagine what’s possible, for you and those around you.

Signing off as the woman whose friends said she should get creative and start a business…

- Lisa

Success Coach 

PS.  Sometimes we need to hear it from someone else. Sometimes we need others to show us our own brilliance.  Sometimes it works best when others challenge us and encourage us.  To be opened up and expanded, sometimes we need support.  Sometimes that nagging voice in the back of our head that tells you "you're not good enough" gets too loud.  The time is now.  If you're ready to tell that voice to go away once and for all, coaching is for you.  If you know there's more out there for you but you're not sure what, coaching is for you.  I LOVE helping men and women like you see what's possible in life (hint: if it's possible in the world, it's possible for you.)

If you don't want to spend another year, month, week or day waiting for the rest of your life, I'm here to support you to get what you want.  I want you to feel fullfillment, joy, and happiness.  The best way to discover if this is for you is to get in touch today (don't wait!) and book a FREE Discovery Call together.  No obligation, no sales. Just a casual chat over the phone, call it coffee (or wine) with a friend.  

I can't wait for you to awaken and create what's possible for you, beyond your wildest dreams!

Ever felt like quitting? You should read this first

It was a downward dog challenge.

Five minutes.  See how long you can last.

This was after 45 minutes of intense, hot, sweaty yoga.  My arms were shaking. My legs were aching. 

I was ready to go home, have a shower, and get started on the rest of my night.

And here I was, stuck in a downward dog challenge.

One minute down.  The instructor was encouraging me (which is why I love yoga).

“You’re doing great.”

Two minutes in. 

“Do your best.”

Halfway there. Two and a half minutes to go.

“Take a break when you need it. Feel free to take child’s pose and come back when you are ready.”

At three minutes, the message changed.

“I know you’re tired.  You’re done. You think you can’t do it.  This is the moment you want to get out of the pose.  But this is when the yoga begins.  Pushing through this moment and showing your strength IS yoga.”

I almost fell over from this powerful statement.

WOAH.

Suddenly, I understood.  That moment when you want to get out of the pose is when yoga begins.  Yoga is:

·      Staying when what you really want to do is run

·      Pushing through the last ounce of strength you have, only to discover there’s even more within you than you thought you had

·      Being present when all you want to do is distract yourself with excuses of why you need to leave

·      Continuing to breathe when you would love to scream and tell the instructor what you REALLY think of her class

The same week I (barely) survived the 5 minute downward dog challenge, my leadership program team fell apart.   I was frustrated, irritated, and considered quitting the program. 

But then, I found myself reflecting on my yoga insight – that the moment when you want to escape is when yoga begins.  And I realized it applies to many facets of life.

I realized that, like yoga, the moment I want to give up, is the moment true leadership begins.  So I wiped the tears, calmed the anger, and gave my leadership team another chance. 

I know that staying, pushing through, being present, and breathing (like I did in yoga), helped shape me as a leader. It strengthened the relationships I had with those on my team. It taught me that I’m stronger than I could imagine.  

·      I forgave when I didn’t think it was possible

·      I listened to understand, before I worried about being understood 

·      I apologized for my mistakes

·      I went beyond what I thought was possible and with my team, created an incredible presentation and research project to serve the community for years to come

Whether you are a leading a team, a company, a family, a non-profit organization, a volunteer committee or your own life (yes, this includes you!), there always comes a moment when you are ready to give up.

You’re exhausted.

You’ve tried everything. 

That person is unreasonable. Impossible.

It’s not worth it.

Except it IS worth it.  It’s not easy.  Believe me when I say I have wanted to walk away from sticky, messy, uncomfortable situations .  But this is when leadership activates.  This is your chance to magnify who you are and what you are capable of.

Pushing yourself through challenge is where the expansion of self happens.

It’s the painful, sweaty, shaky moments where your true strength, courage and grit comes out.

On and off the yoga mat.

If there’s a tough situation in your life right now, this is for you. 

You are strong. You are smart.  You are whole.  You are creative.

That moment when you want to quit is when leadership begins. 

That is the instant that you break free of your comfort zone.

This is the moment when you become who you are meant to be.

Namaste

-  Lisa Michaud

Success Coach

www.lisamichaud.com

PS.  At 3 ½ minutes I did fall over.  So of course, I still have “5 minute downward dog” on my list of life goals. 

What’s on your list of life goals?  I love hearing about what you want to do in your wild and wonderful life!  Get in touch at lisa@lisamichaud.com and share with me some of your goals and dreams.  I’ll keep it in my mind as I create content and programs to help you achieve them!

What I learned because I refused to learn

“Dad, stop speaking Spanish. Speak English.”

A few weeks ago, I was hosting some guests from Europe and took them to beautiful Grouse Mountain, in Vancouver.  For those that have never been, it’s stunning.  Imagine being surrounded by panoramic views of the city, the ocean, and mountains.  I highly recommend Grouse Mountain for anyone visiting Vancouver – accessible by gondola OR the Grouse Grind hike (2830 stairs to the top) for those that want an extra reward at the top (the reward being sweaty satisfaction).  Here's a picture for you in case you want to know what the reward of doing 2830 stairs looks like.

Up on the mountain, we ate a delicious lunch. We laughed and enjoyed our rich history of forestry at the Lumberjack show.  We experienced Canada’s wildlife by seeing two grizzly bears up close (they are in a protected area so thankfully not too close!).

As I stood and watched the bears cool off in the water during the hot day, there was a family next to me. The son was about 4 years old and his father said something to him in Spanish.  The little boy was embarrassed and said to his father “dad, stop speaking Spanish!  Speak English!”

I couldn’t help but laugh.  He was so sure of himself. So sure that he was right –that he should be speaking English. It was cute.  Adorable. Hilarious.

The father probably didn’t think it was so cute.

I leaned over and told the father to keep doing what he was doing.  That one day his son would appreciate it.

I know this from personal experience.

I was that little boy. Except, well, I was a little girl.  And it wasn’t Spanish for me. It was Croatian and Italian.  But otherwise, those exact words could have come out of my mouth at his age.

When I was growing up, my parents spoke Croatian to me. And I hated it.  It was at a time in my life when I didn’t want to be different. I wanted to be like everyone else.  

I didn’t think learning was cool.  But I didn’t have a choice. Croatian was what we spoke in our house and it wasn’t optional.

My parents also spoke Italian and tried teaching me.  I used to call Italian “the angry language” because it sounded like people were yelling.  (It turns out Italians are just really passionate when they speak and not, in fact, angry).

Regardless, I refused to learn it.  I missed out on learning Italian.  I rejected every opportunity to speak it and hear it.

And I regret that I was as persistent and stubborn in not learning Italian as a child because it sure would have been easier to learn it growing up.

When I grew older, I discovered what I called “the angry language,” most people called “the language of love and romance.”

Go figure.

Today, whenever we go to Italy, I learn as much as I can before I arrive. I practice any word I can. I hang on to every word I hear because I think the language is so beautiful.  I wish I could have learned when I was younger.  With my parents to teach me. With my family to practice with.  And a lifetime to improve. 

As disappointed as I am in myself about Italian, I’m super grateful my parents did NOT listen to me when it came to teaching me Croatian.  I argued learning Croatian but my parents made sure learning Croatian was mandatory. 

I’m proud that I can speak a second language (and another half language if you count the Mandarin I brush up on during trips to China).

I love that I can speak to my relatives in Croatia whenever we visit.  I treasure that I can connect with my family in such a personal way, even though they live across the world and we have grown up so differently. 

Croatian comes in handy when Troy and I travel – I’m always his personal translator in any country with similar languages (Montenegro, Czech Republic and Slovenia, so far).  And I never know when I will hear someone speaking Croatian as I travel around the world. In fact, in February, I met two Croatian gentlemen in Cuba after I heard them speaking it at a restaurant.  It’s incredible for connecting with strangers AND for practical things like asking where the bathroom is.

What I’ve learned through learning Croatian and NOT learning Italian is profound for me.  And it’s true for you too.

·      Being different is not only OK, it’s vital for many of the best things in life.  What you have seen, learned and been through in your life is what makes you special and interesting.  Our distinctive cultures are beautiful and meant to be shared.  Our mix of learning, experiences and culture makes each of us irreplaceable.   And today, I’m proud to be uniquely me!  I want you to be proud to be uniquely you too!

·      As humans, we need to push ourselves into the uncomfortable.  There are always times we want to give up.  Times we feel the learning is pointless, or isn’t worth the hassle.  But our own development is irreplaceable.  The reward always comes after we’ve pushed ourselves enough to deserve the incredible learning.  And sometimes the reward is just knowing we did it and proving we could! 

·      As a parent, as a leader, as a friend, sometimes we have to push others past an uncomfortable point.  I’m so glad my parents encouraged me to learn Croatian. I am impressed they could resist my stubborn nature and am forever appreciative of their tenacity.

Through languages – those I learned and those I didn’t – I’ve discovered that all learning is incredible.

Learning is a gift.  It is sometimes uncomfortable, challenging, and perhaps even embarrassing. 

But no learning is ever wasted or futile.

The next time you have the opportunity to learn, take it.  If you haven’t learned something new in a while, it’s never too late.  (I truly believe I will be able to speak Italian one day, hopefully sooner than later).   And please don’t be afraid to teach.  Teaching takes patience, kindness, understanding, and grace.  Even when you are met with resistance, persist.  You may not know it yet, but you will change lives.

Learn or teach others to:

·      Take beautiful pictures

·      Make incredible cocktails in a bartending class

·      Sing

·      Play piano

·      Swim

·      Manage time better

·      Cook Indian food

·      Appreciate art

·      Understand your finances

Learning and teaching will give you:

·      Confidence

·      Joy

·      Experiences

·      An open mind

·      Friendship

·      New skills

·      A conversation starter when meeting others

·      Growth

·      The “cool factor” – yes learning is cool!

Now it’s your turn. 

Go learn.  Teach.  Connect.  Grow.

Thank you to my parents for teaching me Croatian and for never giving up on me.

And know that one day, I’ll speak to you in “the language of love.”

--Lisa Michaud

Success Coach

PS.   The last “The Spark” 4-week One-on-One Coaching Package is now gone!  But, because you are such loyal readers and I love you (I really do!), I’ve decided to offer one more at the last-chance price of $500 for my readers only.  After this, the price goes up to $600.  If you’re looking to be encouraged, I’m here to support and uplift you.  If you want more learning in your life, you’ll be amazed at how much we can accomplish together in 30 days.  If you’re looking to be pushed and challenged, let’s get you kick-started to next adventure in life! 

Contact me at lisa@lisamichaud.com and mention this post to get the special pricing. I’d love to connect (for free) to see if we’re a good fit and find out what’s next for you on your learning journey.

Are you wasting 70% of your time?

“Everybody’s working for the weekend...”

Ahhh…a great song. Nostaligic beats. Just hearing the song might take you back to your younger years.  Or maybe you’re younger than me and don’t know the song, in which case you should YouTube it. Now.

As great as the song is, I think “working for the weekend” is bullshit.

Utter, complete bullshit.

Why?

Your life is meant to be full.  Full of fun.  Full of life.  Full of memories and good times.

Too often I hear people telling me they “can’t do anything on week nights.” We frequently laugh and make jokes, calling those nights “school nights.”  As if our parents and school principal are still telling us what we can and can’t do.

It's time to never waste a week night again.

Let’s do some simple math.

There are seven days and nights in a week.

You work five days.

You get two nights a week that you don’t have to work the next day.

That means you only have fun 2/7 nights.

That’s only 28% of your nights. 

If you’re working for the weekend, you are wasting more than 70% of your evenings. Considering you spend 40+ hours at work in a week, wasting 70% of your evenings is just plain stupid.

So, I challenge you to make the most of your weeknights. In those evenings, you could be making time to:

• Cook your favourite meal
• Have a Skype date with a friend
• Take a photography course you’ve been dying to take
• Go to sleep early because sometimes sleep is just soooooo good
• Schedule a hot date night with that special someone…or say yes to a weeknight date with someone new! 
• Book that yoga class because even if you do fall asleep, at least you showed up

These nights are precious time. Your time is valuable. Don’t waste it in front of the TV.  Don’t waste it too exhausted to focus.  Don’t waste it on housework.

And guess what – if at the end of the day you are too tired and mentally exhausted from a job you don’t love?

Then you REALLY need to take my advice and make a change. 

• Work on resumes you keep saying you will submit
• Sign up for a new course
• Commit to one networking event a week.  Hint: networking doesn’t have to be stuffy events with suits. It can be joining a hiking group, volunteering for a local non-profit, or a happy-hour with new friends
• Start a side-business to test a career move before you leap

There’s time for wonderful indulgences every day.  Movement towards our goals.  Small, simple pleasures.  Sweet memories.  Love. Laughter. 

There's time for Growth. Learning. Working for our goals. Reaching our dreams.  Celebration.  New connection.  Expanding ourselves and our life.

But it’s only yours if you stop wasting your time.

Go get what you want tonight! 

 - Lisa

Success Coach 

www.lisamichaud.com

PS - Here's proof that I DO live life and go out (yes, even on school nights).  One afternoon after work, some friends and I drove up to Whistler, just for the evening.  In just a few hours, we did a 5km run, relaxed at the world class Scandinave Spa and sampled beer and dinner at Howe Sound Brewing.

 I can't wait to hear what YOU do with all your extra time! 

The Advice You Should Never Take

“Never take advice from someone you wouldn’t trade places with.”

This is one of my favourite quotes.

I remember a lovely first date I had with my (new at the time) friend Matt Corker. 

For anyone who hasn’t heard of or met Matt – if you live in Vancouver, you’ve been living under a rock – this guy knows EVERYONE! And it’s because he’s fantastic. 

Matt and I were out for a run the first time we met and we got into the discussion of working women – one of my favourite topics. At the time, Matt worked for lululemon. I told him that I believed it was possible to “have it all” – work and family.

I also told him that I felt like I had it all but didn’t know many other people who did. 

Do you ever feel like this too?  Do you ever feel like you’re the only one?

The narrative out there seemed to be that “having it all” was a myth. Or that telling women they could “have it all” was cruel, and makes those who don’t have it all feel worse about themselves.

Not good.

Matt said something very profound to me.

He said, “If you think you can’t have it all, you’re talking to the wrong person.”

Bam.

Of course. 

Someone who doesn’t have it all will probably tell you it’s not possible. They’ll tell you it’s a myth, and that you have to pick between work , fun, and family. 

Matt hit the nail on the head. If you ask the right women, they will show you it’s possible. At lululemon, he knew many female executives who still made time to exercise, volunteer, and raise families. 

The same goes for men.  If you ask the right men, they will share wonderful stories from their paternity leave, of backpacking trips through Europe and exciting business accomplishments.

Let’s remember that “having it all” doesn’t mean there aren’t sacrifices. Tough decisions. Constant prioritization. And support required. 

But it IS possible! And isn’t prioritizing, making decisions, and being deliberate in what you do a HELL of a lot better than the alternative? 

Being deliberate beats missing out on having kids that you would love to have. 

Prioritizing beats being lonely because you’ve spent too much time at the office. 

Making the decision to set boundaries with your boss (or your business) sure beats missing a best friend’s bachelorette party or birthday.

Do you ever feel like you know it’s possible but just aren’t sure how to “have it all”?   

Here’s how you can get there too.

1)  Having it all starts with figuring out what “having it all” means to you. 

For some, it will mean running a marathon a year. 

For others, it will mean having three kids. 

For others (like me), it means travelling to new countries every year.

For many of us, it means having great family and friend relationships.

I believe we can have all this and also have rewarding, challenging and engaging work to do!

2)  Having it all also means surrounding yourself with other women and men who feel like they have it all. 

• Reach out to a friend or mentor who is clearly happy and fulfilled in their lives, and learn from them. 
• Talk to your friends about what “having it all” means to you, and to them. Support each other and encourage them to “have it all” too.

3)  Having it all means being deliberate with your time and consciously creating the life you want. This might mean:

• Setting the alarm early to have breakfast with your partner and kids because you aren’t always home for dinner.
• Saying no to volunteering for the fundraiser.
• Pumping the song “You can have it all” by JRDN in moments of doubt. Which literally just came on my iTunes random playlist.  Yup – it’s a sign – we can have it all!
• Having a conversation with your boss about after-hours emails.
• Working late some week nights and weekends so you can take a Friday off and head out on a wine-tasting weekend early.
• Taking paid or unpaid leave of absence to spend more time travelling.

All of these things become HEAPS easier when you know you’re doing it because you want to have it all.  

And you deserve to have it all.

--Lisa

Success Coach

PS If you’re looking for awesome books to get into the structure of HOW to have it all, I highly recommend Laura Vanderkam’s books168 Hours and I Know How She Does It.  I’ll be sharing learnings from her work from time-to-time but if you are super passionate about this topic, get her books now!  Side note - If you do follow my links, they don't cost you anything extra and keep me reading and recommending only the best books and advice for you!