We have just celebrated International Women’s Day with many events, conferences, workshops and seminars sharing information to empower and support one another.
Networking with others who share a passion for self improvement and connect through life experiences that encourage new conversations.
At one event, I was at a table with nine other industry professionals. We found that the positive energy in the room was infectious, creating a dialogue that was honest and heartfelt. We had all met each other for the first time, so, we had no preconceived judgments or opinions about one another and we began to discuss the idea of committing to “stretch goals.” The deliberate, over the top ambitious goals that require extra commitment and resources for success.
There is nothing like a room filled with empowering stories to empower each other.
It was an unusual conversation with nine complete strangers but we had created a safe zone to share information without judgement.
A truly inspirational environment!
As an entrepreneurial coach, I often work with clients and use this concept when it applies to “the business of the business.” Reaching for ambitious sales increases, marketing plans or cost cutting measures that will contribute to the bottom line and support sustainable profit. These often include the personal goals of the CEO or Founder as they navigate the future.
But…What about the personal goals that appear over the top… Are we really ready to commit to these goals?
It was interesting, although we were all from different professions and at different stages in our careers, we encouraged each other to think about how we would pursue a goal that would really test our sense of adventure and support self-care.
Create, commit and pursue a stretch goal.
We found that there were things we had considered at various stages in our career but at the time did not have the long term commitment to formalize an action plan. We were just not ready to move towards that goal. It was placed on the shelf to be considered at a different place in time.
How ironic that this event had started a new conversation with conviction to pull those goals off the shelf and start a new chapter or page in our personal or professional life.
The goals were similar yet very different. Similar in that everyone was now ready to take a leap of faith to move outside our comfort zone and climb that mountain, literally, learn to skydive or live and immerse ourselves in another country for a year.
Why not? Was the question we began to ask each other as we shared those audacious goals. A question that was mirrored around the table in support of just “getting started.”
Perhaps we are all now at place where it is time to dust off the shelf take down that goal and commit to a different definition for success.
Who knew, that attending a networking event in celebration of International Women’s Day would encourage and support life changing events. I’d lke to thank each of the women I met at the event, your inspiration has moved me outside my comfort zone.
What are your stretch goals?
Trish Tonaj is a Certifed Master Coach, Author, Mentor and Speaker offering keynotes and workshops on how to amplify your success. She is the founder and guest blog host for shareyourstories.online a portal in support of mentorship and the entrepreneurial spirit. We invite you to share your story! https://bit.ly/37N3XQw