BrownStyle Magazine’s column Bouncing Back is an inspirational series that celebrates the strength and resilience of women from diverse backgrounds. Each week, find inspiration from the intimate short stories of remarkable women who have overcome adversity. We hope their courage uplift and inspire you!
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I was at the top of my career as an executive leader in the health-based industry. My daughters were four and seven. My husband was eighteen years into his military career. As a couple, we had achieved every goal that promised us a successful life, along with all the materialistic possessions that kept us working to pay the bills. And well…I panicked.
My body sent a bold signal to my heart that this lifestyle was not the way. After experiencing a health emergency, I left the hospital with what felt like a lifetime supply of Xanax and a hefty dose of shame because I couldn’t keep up with the life that I had created.
Night after night, my heartbeat would sound off at 2:00 am begging to be heard. Finally, frustration shifted to compassion, and I began to explore ways to change my circumstances without disappointing everyone who was counting on me.
Tuning Into My Heart’s Desire
I decided to tune into my heart daily and discover what I truly wanted, which meant unhooking from what everybody else wanted from me. Each day, I found small ways I could take action toward my desire.
Four years later, I resigned from my career and with relentless faith, I moved to Louisiana and bought my first business: a small fitness center. A few years later, I opened my yoga studio and began teaching others how to tap into the deepest desire of their heart and align with their passion and purpose.
Staying True To My Wellness Goals
To support my overall well-being, I turn to my three non-negotiable practices. It starts with taking complete responsibility, which I define as a deep commitment to paying attention to myself.
Below, read the non-negotiable practices that help me overcome adversity and keep me resilient and bouncing back.
1. Take responsibility for my thoughts and feelings. Every morning, I tune into my state of being. I release anything that doesn’t feel aligned or sound positive.
2. I take responsibility for my energy, as movement increases positive endorphins. This is when I receive the most inspiration and I get excited to take action. I love to exercise, so I have a fitness routine. However, I highly suggest creating a movement routine that feels aligned for you.
3. I take responsibility for my spirit. I focus on how I can bring joy, love, and peace into the world. I love myself deeply and boldly share my excitement and wins with others.
Always remember you have a choice! Write it on your bathroom mirror. Choose to love yourself deeply, trust yourself completely, and accept yourself with open arms. Cheers to bouncing back
Written by Mary Gooden: an international speaker, bestselling author, founder of Divine Destiny Mentoring & Publishing, and the CEO of what she likes to call her brilliant life.
