Day 0 - Embrace Your Potential!

Be empowered to embrace your potential, regardless of your circumstance. Make choices that are in alignment with your vision. You will experience success as you define it.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 1 - Freedom

There is nothing greater than the freedom of choice. Celebrate this freedom by choosing to embrace your potential today.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 2 - Execute your Vision of Success

Get clear about your vision of success. Affirm your commitment. Be confident. Choose wisely. Build a community of support. That’s what it takes to execute!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 3 - Define your Vision of Success

What does success look like for you – at home, at work, at play, and at peace? Write it down. Post it where you can see it. Let it inspire your daily living.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 4 - Visualize

Spend time every day visualizing success as you define it – at home, at work, at play, and at peace. Be specific. Use all of your senses. Make it real. It is!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 5 - Find Joy

Create a home filled with the simple pleasures that bring you joy. Fill your home with pictures of friends and family, fill a vase with fresh flowers, play your favourite music. Happiness resides here.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 6 - Engage!

It’s not enough to dream, to visualize, to believe. Engage yourself in the creation of your new reality. Make the work count!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 7 - Live with Passion!

Love each day as the gift that it is. Enjoy it to the fullest. Live with passion. You will benefit, as will those around you. It is contagious!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 8 - Integrity

Only make commitments that are in alignment with your vision of success. To these commitments you will be true. Your integrity will be respected and mirrored in work and personal relationships.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 9 - Find your Purpose

Reflect on the contribution you are making in the world. Take steps today to incorporate your passion in daily activities. Success is the result of inspired action. Find your purpose and live it!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 10 - Discover your Values

What values are demonstrated by those people with whom you have the best relationships? What do you admire about successful people you know? The answers hold the key to discovering your values.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 11 - Accept What Is

There is great freedom in accepting what is. Acknowledge what is in your control and release the judgment you place on your circumstances and those around you.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 12 - Peace

Set aside time for yourself each day to relax and reflect. Count your blessings and give thanks. Dream. In peace, you will receive the inspiration you need to embrace your potential.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 13 - Play

Do you need more fun in your life? Let loose and try a new activity or revisit an old hobby. Buy yourself a new toy. Embrace your inner child and play!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 14 - Create

Creativity flows when you quiet your mind. Let go of limiting beliefs and allow your natural talents to shine. You will be amazed at what can be created from nothing.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 15 - Dream

Enthusiasm is powered by our dreams. Believe in the power you have to manifest your dream. It is within you, waiting to be unleashed.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 16 - Be Mindful

Move about your day with deliberate intent. Be mindful of the words you choose, the things you do, and the people with whom you spend time. With conscious awareness, you will see clearly how your life reflects your personal values.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 17 - Be Present

Practice the art of being present with every task and every conversation. Your effectiveness will increase exponentially. Your relationships will be transformed.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 18 - Quiet Your Mind

Sit quietly today for five minutes. When you quiet your mind, you will find the answers you seek and the inspiration to move forward toward your vision of success.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 19 - Live in Possibility

Be receptive to new experiences today. There are amazing opportunities awaiting you. Live in possibility and attract all that is available.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 20 - Believe in Abundance

There is enough to go around. Believe it. Demonstrate it through generosity and gratitude. You will receive abundance at every turn.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 21 - Contribute

In all that you do, give your best. Let yourself shine. You will be rewarded for your contribution and you will inspire others.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 22 - Speak Your Truth

Honour yourself by speaking with honesty and integrity. Create a life that is grounded in your personal values, motivated by your personal vision of success.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 23 - Strive for Balance

When you strive for balance, you recognize the importance of a well-rounded life where you can be fully expressed. Take care of your relationships, home, work, health and fitness. Make time for yourself so you can give your best to others.

Embrace 40!

Day 24 - Build a Community

Surround yourself with people who support your vision of success. Cultivate respectful relationships, seek out mentors, and break ties that no longer serve you. Build a community that will motivate and inspire you.

Embrace 40!

Day 25 - Be Confident

Consistently make choices in alignment with your vision and your confidence to attract what you desire will soar. Believe in your capacity to create a new reality and it will be done.

Embrace 40!

Day 26 - Choose Wisely

Be conscious of your decisions throughout the day and their impact on your happiness. Every choice is an opportunity for you to move closer to your vision of success.

Embrace 40!

Day 27 - Make a Commitment

Make a declaration to affirm your commitment to embrace your potential. Know that your vision of success is within reach. Demonstrate your commitment and you will be rewarded.

Embrace 40!

Day 28 - Get Clear

Spend time getting clear about your vision of success. With focus and commitment, you will attract what you desire with lightning speed.

Embrace 40!

Day 29 - Be Love

Open your heart to love and you will find love. Start within. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. When you are being what you wish to attract, you will find success.

Embrace 40!

Day 30 - Have Faith

Believe that everything happens for a reason. Know that you are exactly where you are meant to be. Have faith that your prayers are being answered. You are not alone.

Embrace 40!

Day 31 - Express Yourself

“As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” ~ Marianne Williamson.

For a very long time, I was not fully self-expressed. Some may find this quite an interesting statement, knowing how much I love to talk! But talking is not the same as expressing. And, an authentic expression of who you truly are shows up in more than just talk, to be sure.

As I have travelled on this journey, I have realized the important of being brave enough to show the world your true self. For years, I was holding back so much of my authentic self that it manifested in chronic pain. At times when my ego tested me and kept me playing small (i.e., denying the REAL Lisa), I would always experience great physical discomfort. As I have gotten to know myself better, I have learned how to observe when this happens to me and manage it, instead of allowing it to control my life.

Through my work as a Professional Motivator and as the REAL Lisa, I encourage YOU to let your liet shine! The world is waiting for you to show up in the spotlight and make a difference. You have gifts and talents that are unique, but we are all the same and connected through one power. Make choices that align with their core values and express yourself. This is the only way that you can Embrace Your Potential™. I am very glad to have learned this lesson.

Express yourself fully by sharing your gifts and talents with the world. Do what you love and do it with pride. You will inspire others do to the same.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 32 - Surrender

Let Go. Let God.
One of the greatest tenets in spirituality is that of surrender. When we are at our worst, when we feel all alone, it is then that we have to stop DOING and instead focus on BEING in a state of surrender. This month has been a challenging one for me; this year of 40 has brought more bumps than a gravel road, and one of the most important lessons I continue to learn is to Let Go and Let God.

I say, “continue to learn” because my ego keeps rising up and testing me. I mentioned that yesterday when I remembered to Pause in order to clear my head and get present. Today, I felt much better but my ‘little voice’ that taunts me - with statements like “I’m not good enough”- kept trying to gain my attention and sabotage my plans for a productive and enjoyable day. I retaliated by going to Church for Palm Sunday service. It always serves to ground me and, at the same time, lift me up, reminding me of all the power I have inside and that I am not alone. I can overcome anything when I surrender the problem and ask for help. I did.

I was rewarded with a wonderfully productive afternoon. I truly felt powerful after doing what needed to be done. A walk in the park was my gift to myself – another opportunity to pause and give thanks.

When you face a seemingly impossible task, clear your mind and let go. Surrender the problem. Be confident in your ability to manage what has been presented to you. The answers you seek will come.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 33 - Pause

“The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.” ~Buddha


What a brilliant day! Not just the sunshine, but the pure joy that surrounded me, literally: in my car, were four little girls singing their hearts out in pure love to their favourite songs by Justin Bieber. My heart was filled as I watched these girls who played with utter abandon under the sunshine in Bowring Park. Without a plan, they occupied themselves for almost 2 hours in temperatures that hovered around minus 10 with the windchill. They shared such delight in feeding the ducks, chasing pigeons, and stopping to pet EVERY dog that walked by. It was wonderful. And then it was gone...

Yes, unfortunately it wasn’t that long after that I was ‘confronted’ by my tricky ego and sent spiralling into the mire. It is easy to get distracted from the loveliest of days by the obligations that adulthood brings, but I have learned that it is also easy to SWITCH your mindset. All you have to do is Pause. In this present moment, there are no problems. It is only when we allow ourselves to be consumed by negative images of the past and worried about the future that we create problems in our minds.

Now that I am an expert at recognizing this, I can more easily pull myself out of it. I remember to be gentle and compassionate with myself as I would be with another. When I do, everything falls into place. I gained a different perspective and realize that everything is not as dire as it seems, nor as urgent, nor as dramatic. It is only my reaction to the situation that makes it so. Now that I have taken a breath, meditated some, washed the dishes by hand, and written a few words, my whole demeanour has changed. What has to get done will get done. I trust myself. I will try not to forget that again!

When you are struggling, take a moment and remove yourself from the situation. Pause before you react and you will gain a different perspective. Your response will be deliberate and inspired.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 34 - Make Connections that Serve

“People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. When you figure out which one it is, you will know what to do for each person.” ~ Unknown

Today I pay tribute to all the wonderful people who come and go through my life who contribute to my success. This includes my children, of course, my friends, and my family. It also includes those who have become a significant part of my life by bringing inspiration and motivation to me as I navigate the (sometime choppy) waters of my journey. Thank you for being there for me. Please know that I appreciate and love you for the contribution you are!

This year has been a particularly learned one for me when it comes to relationships, business and personal. I have discovered that we attract people into our lives for different purposes. When they have served their purpose the relationship changes, and often has to end. The more we struggle to hold on, the more difficult the relationship becomes. This is our sign from the Universe to let go. It is important to trust your gut and realize when those around are bringing you closer to or farther away from your vision of success. Choose wisely. There are wonderful people out there waiting for you!

Be deliberate about making connections with others who are supportive of your vision of success. Connect with yourself to ensure your thoughts and actions are in alignment with your vision.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 35 - Appreciate Nature

"Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher." ~ William Wordsworth

Over the past year, I have become particular sensitive to the weather. While I don’t allow the weather to dictate my mood, I have certainly learned to appreciate its ever-changing mood. I take immense pleasure in spontaneous outings to appreciate nature. As much as I would like to plan my outdoor activities, here in Newfoundland and Labrador, we can experience several seasons in one day, especially during the months of spring, so the best laid plans don’t always work out. I’ve learned to be flexible and take advantage of days when the skies are clear and head out to the park, the lake, or the nearest hiking trail to get some fresh air and a fresh perspective.

Today I was reminded of the power of nature’s beauty. A 30-minute walk in the park served to clear my mind, energize my body, and fuel my soul. It is when I am in nature that I gain the greatest clarity on my vision of success and solutions appear to the problems that are seemingly most complex. I am grateful for nature's gifts that I am able to experience every day.

Take time to acknowledge the perfection that surrounds you. Appreciate nature by taking a walk in the park, enjoying a picnic at the beach, or planting a flower garden.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 36 - Find Your Purpose!

"Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens.” ~ Carl Jung

In this year of significant transformation, I have paused many times to consider how I am showing up in the world. It has been my personal mission to clearly define and boldly execute my own vision of success on a daily basis, living with deliberate intent and creating a new reality that is grounded in my personal values.

As a Professional Motivator, my mission is to help individuals and organizations do the same. It is of the utmost importance to me to be a leader and practice what I preach. I love my job because it allows me to live on purpose.

Reflect on the contribution you are making in the world. Take steps today to incorporate your passion in daily activities. Success is the result of inspired action. Find your purpose and live it!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 37 - Grow!

“He who moves not forward, goes backward.” Johan Wolfgang von Goethe

I have caught myself saying, from time to time over the past year, that I wish things would just stand still for a moment. Then, of course, I check myself because I’ve learned to be careful over what I wish. I have been experiencing change at a rapid pace; when a friend asks, “What’s new?” I don’t know where to start – even if it has only been 24 hours since we last spoke!

Living in Possibility is like that. Being open to new opportunities will naturally draw them to you. Change signifies growth; the question becomes whether the change is bringing you closer to or farther from your vision of success.

Every day provides an opportunity to grow beyond your comfort zone and expand your world with endless possibilities. Move through the fear. Try something new today and then celebrate your growth.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 38 - Celebrate!

“The journey in between what you once were and who you are becoming is where the dance of life really takes place.” Dr. Barbara de Angelis

When I was younger, I always considered success as a destination where I would arrive once I had checked off my ever-expanding list of things I wanted to accomplish. In high school, I became particularly focused on this list where I benchmarked the major things I planned to achieve and the associated time it would take me. After graduating with honours, getting the scholarships, finishing university, landing a coveted job, getting married, getting a better job, buying a home, having my first child, having the second child three years later, buying a bigger home, and returning to school for my graduate degree (deep breath), I came to the stark realization that I was not happy!!

On this 38th day before my next birthday, I admit to having learned an important lesson: Success is in the journey, not the destination. To add to this knowledge, I believe that each and every day along this journey is worth celebrating. And I do! Good news is floating all around me! I am overflowing with happiness as my friends and family celebrate the blessings and successes in their lives. It is so wonderful to see that people around me have learned this lesson already :)

Right now, there is something to celebrate in your life. Reward yourself for what you have accomplished. You made it to today, and that is worth celebrating!

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 39 - Be Grateful

"So much has been given to me, I have no time to ponder over that which has been denied." - Helen Keller

When we focus on the wonderful things in our lives, our perspective can change from one of misery to that of elation in an instant. As a daily practice, I used to tuck my children into bed with a simple question: What was your favourite part of today? In that moment, any bitterness or strife experienced would be overshadowed by the recollection of the beauty that the day brought. While they are not as small as they were when we started that practice, it is a routine that we carry on because of the benefit of a grateful mindset.

I remind my children every day, how blessed I feel that they are part of my world and how important it is to express gratitude for all that we have. When I go to bed at night, I thank God for all my blessings and for continuing to keep my family and friends in good health and fortune. When I wake up in the morning, and throughout the day, I give thanks for everything that comes my way. I don’t ever want to take for granted the simple gifts like clean air, safe drinking water, affordable housing, and the freedom of self-expression.

It is easy to be grateful when times are good. Think about Thanksgiving, when families are together, eating, drinking and being merry – it’s a time when expressing gratitude naturally rolls off the tongue. Learning to have an “Attitude of Gratitude” when times are tough, however, is more challenging, but it is altogether more critical. This past year, I have experienced the end of a number of significant relationships (family, friends, colleagues, and others), the switch from salary and benefits to an unpredictable revenue stream, health challenges which subsequently altered my lifestyle, and I shovelled more snow than you can shake a stick at!! It is true that the year I turned 40, I experienced more challenge than any other year; however, I’m still at a loss to name all the ‘bad’ things that happened. The grief from the loss has been healed and my rapid recovery can be attributed to the gratitude I hold in my heart for all the lessons learned.

Make a note of all the things for which you are grateful. Acknowledging the good in your life will raise your vibration. Focus on your blessings and you will attract abundance.

Embrace 40!

Lisa

Day 40 - Learn the Lesson

“I write to taste life twice.” Anais Nin

As I have read in so many inspirational stories, it is through suffering that we truly triumph. This year has been one of many ups and downs for me, personally and professionally. As my true nature is that of always finding the silver lining behind every cloud, I was given ample opportunity this year to learn lessons that I stubbornly resisted in the past. I have experienced more loss this past year than ever before and yet, what I have gained in return has been priceless.

When you are ready to face your fears, take risks, believe in yourself, and believe in a higher power, you will inevitably change. With change comes uncertainty as well as excitement. Letting go of the past creates space for new opportunities and this is one of the great lessons that proved a recurring theme of the year I turned 40.

Believe that everything happens for a reason. There is a lesson in every situation. Sometimes it isn’t obvious but hidden from plain view. Be grateful for the opportunity to learn.

Embrace 40!

Lisa