The quote I chose for this month's newsletter reflects my professional and personal paths since moving to Austin in 1981. What I have found is that the closer I've come to my true passions in what I do - that is, my profession - who I am has become more joyous and authentic. And, the more authentic I have allowed myself to be, the more passionate and joyous I have become! The creativity and authenticity I bring to my life has truly become my "fountain of youth."
Five years ago this month I took a huge leap and started
Synergy Builders. Prior to this I had worked in the "safe" government/higher education and private-practice industry. Becoming a consultant meant leaving behind the monthly, dependable paycheck, the pay raises and promotions, the paid vacations, the healthcare, the sick leave, and the nice corner office and support staff.
Yes, I lost some material things, but I have gained immensely in other ways. For one, my big change gave me the opportunity to spend more time with my younger daughter, who needed me in subtle ways; I remember how her teacher at the time told me how my daughter had "settled down" after I left my "regular" job.
I also gained an amazing independence, with no one to blame but myself if I didn't "succeed." Over the past five years I have facilitated over sixty workshops, with more than 1,800 attendees - WOW!
My career change stretched me and my family in amazing ways... my husband has been a real trooper - without his steady job I don't think I would have given myself permission to make such a risky move. And, I have modeled a new way of success to my children and others. My consulting status also required that I learn and grow at an accelerated pace so that I would be the best provider of services and offer to my clients the most up-to-date information.
In February 2003 I found myself at the website for St. Edward's University, looking for the contact information of someone who worked there. While I had often thought about getting my master's degree, I wasn't interested in a typical MBA, or a master's in Architecture (my under-grad degree). I hadn't been actively looking for a school, but I just "happened" to come across the page describing the MSOLE program: Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership and Ethics. I immediately knew that I must pursue this degree! In August 2005 I was wearing a cap and gown and reaching for my new diploma, having learned much about myself and leadership, and a new passion to make a positive difference in the corporate world, in my own unique way.
In October 2005 I was invited by my friend, Richard Shannnon, to join him as his partner and new Principal in
Concertas, LLC, who's mission is to improve patient safety and quality of care in the healthcare industry through a focus on transforming conflict and improving communications. So I am now a two-company entrepreneur.
I have gained so many new friends and I have learned so much over the last five years!
I would like to say a couple of thank-you's. First, I want to thank George Abikhaled who originally encouraged me to become a Partnering workshop facilitator, and Sally Van Duyn, who mentored me for a year on this path. Second, there are many others - bosses and co-workers - who helped to shape who I am and given me opportunities - who trusted me and saw something in me that inspired me to grow beyond what I was and knew at the time.
2007 also marks the year that I have a "significant" (harumph) birthday, and I believe that 2007 is an important point in my career and success.
To help me celebrate this significant year, I have some Special Offers, so read more below about these!
THANK YOU for your support!! Special Offers are detailed below!
