2000 was the year of Y2K, Britney Spears, reality TV and Survivor, and one of my favorite movies, The Notebook.
That feels like a lifetime ago. And yet, as I shared in my recent newsletter, I’ve been in business for 25 years. Whoa. It was the infancy of the coaching profession. I’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of amazing people and organizations over the last 2 ½ decades.
I do feel a little bit older, but most of all, I feel a whole lot wiser!
I’ve learned so much over the years—as an entrepreneur, coach, speaker, author, shamanic practitioner, mom, adoptee, partner, friend and woman deeply connected to these Blue Ridge mountains—I’ve collected truths that feel steady and certain in my bones.
Today, I’m sharing 25 Things I Know for Sure. May they spark recognition, offer comfort, and perhaps inspire you to reflect on what you know for sure.
Self-Care & Ritual
1. Self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. (my first book was published during the pandemic and helped so many)
2. Rituals help us navigate life’s big (and little) transitions. (my second book is filled with stories and examples to support you on your journey)
3. A personal altar can hold both your grief and your gratitude.
4. Intentional rest is e-s-s-e-n-t-i-a-l in this chaotic world.
5. Self-care isn’t one size fits all. Find what works for you… journaling, meditation, prayer, girlfriend time, dancing, yoga, hiking, sitting in silence.
Identity & Healing
6. This alllllll ends (at least this 3-D version of life). Enjoy every day. Don’t wait until something bad happens to wake up to this reality.
7. Grief and joy often live side-by-side. Embrace them both.
8. Identity work is some of the most important personal work you’ll ever do. Who am I? What are my values? What is my purpose?
9. Circles help us feel seen, loved, and witnessed. Spirals help us elevate, expand, and make quantum leaps.
10. Stories heal. Be vulnerable and share yours—you’ll be amazed at how others open up when you do.
Nature & Spirit
11. Hug trees. Seriously. Lean in and listen.
12. Animals serve as our teachers and guides. Pay attention to their messages. (My primary teacher is the dragonfly! What’s yours?)
13. Shamanic Journey work changed my life. It’s one of the most transformative ways to access clear guidance from beyond the veil. (don’t delay, book a session today)
14. Nature is the Great Rebalancer. When you’re out of sorts, get thee to the woods (or water, or mountains, or garden).
15. Consistent spiritual practices keep your channel open. Pray, meditate, walk, sing, dance.
Relationships & Family
16. Healthy relationships are the best medicine. Choose your village wisely.
17. Family is how you define it—biological, adoptive, step, chosen. (“The bond that links your true family is not one of blood but of joy and respect in each other’s life.” – Richard Bach)
18. The most challenging relationships are the greatest learning opportunities. (Scorpio rising here, anyone relate?!)
19. Friendships that last decades are soul medicine. Spend time cultivating them.
20. We are not meant to do life alone, community is essential for our longevity!
Resilience & Wisdom
21. It can be exhausting developing resilience, but it also brings wisdom.
22. It’s OK that you’re not always OK.
23. We can’t control external events, but we can always choose our responses.
24. Life is a series of seasons and cycles. As a wise friend often reminds me: Impermanence, Elizabeth.
25. Joy is an act of resilience, of resistance, and of revolution.
These are just a few of the truths guiding me right now. Some I’ve learned on my own personal journey and some I’ve witnessed as my clients have wrestled with big life changes and challenges. All of them remind me to keep showing up with love, curiosity, and grace.
Now I’d love to hear from you: What do YOU know for sure? Leave a comment and share. I’d be honored to learn from your wisdom.
Want to explore these themes more deeply?
Don’t forget to use code CELEBRATE25 for 25% off any coaching service or any gift products on either website.
Book Coaching Now!
Shop for Gifts Here!
Valid until 8-31-25 but sessions can be scheduled as late as 9-30-25.