Extraordinary Women TV announces media sponsorship of 85Broads-Toronto’s “Women & Philanthropy” event, in partnership with Plan Canada
For Immediate Release
Shannon Skinner’s Extraordinary Women TV partners with 85 Broads-Toronto
Women & Philanthropy fundraising event, in partnership with Plan Canada
TORONTO, Oct. 19, 2012 – Shannon Skinner’s Extraordinary Women TV is pleased to announce it is the media sponsor of Women & Philanthropy, a fundraising event hosted by 85 Broads – Toronto Chapter and in partnership with Plan Canada. It is taking place Nov. 13, 2012 in Toronto and proceeds will go to two girls the chapter sponsors through Plan Canada’s Because I am a Girl initiative.
The event features guest speaker, Rosemary McCarney, president and CEO, Plan Canada, a global movement for change, mobilizing millions of people around the world to support social justice for children in developing countries, who will speak about her journey to success, and the evolving relationship between women and philanthropy.
“Both organizations are doing amazing things for the community, for women and girls,” says Shannon Skinner, creator and host, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner. “I hope this event will inspire more women to get involved in philanthropy.”
The event will be held at La Marquette Restaurant (111 King St. E.) from 6 p.m.-8 p.m., in Toronto.
For more information about ticket sales and event details, visit: 85 Broads-Toronto Chapter.
Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner is a first-of-its-kind web TV talk show that is an inspirational, informative and relevant online resource for women everywhere who want to follow their hearts and dreams. More than 160 one-on-one interviews with successful women from all walks of life — Canadian and international — have been conducted and archived since its inception in Sept. 2010.
85 Broads is a global network of over 30,000 women who are inspired, empowered and connected. The network originated with a group of trailblazing women who worked for Goldman Sachs at 85 Broads Street in New York and now includes members in more than 90 countries, including Canada.
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For information, contact:
Shannon Skinner
Creator/Host, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner
416-576-8809 (cell)
info@skinnerpublicity.com
www.ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com
www.ShannonSkinner.com
Why meditation is a key to success for these women
After interviewing hundreds of accomplished women over the past two years, in my quest to discover the keys to their success, I have become aware of not only treasured insights, but also recurring themes. One of those themes just might surprise you.
For many of these successful women, the importance of having a regular meditation practice is not only important; it has been paramount to helping them achieve career and/or overall life success – either directly or indirectly.
The practice of meditation is nothing new, nor is it reserved for today’s “New Agers” (whatever “New Age” means), as it is so often thought of. Most, if not all, religions have practiced some form of quiet contemplation, reflection and meditation since antiquity. Today, we live in a world where modern scientists, religions, and the health and wellness community can all agree that meditation has benefits — from mental and physical health to spiritual growth.
But what is meditation?
There are many definitions and forms. On a metaphysical level, I have heard it said that meditation is listening to the Universe; and prayer is speaking to it. From science, we know that meditation accesses and develops brain waves that take us into a deeper state of consciousness and relaxation. At a personal development level, it helps us to discover ourselves and believe in our abilities. Here, in this state, we can connect with the soul: the highest spiritual pursuit for many people, across many cultures.
Personally, I have experimented with different forms of meditation over the years, from yoga to contemplative walks in nature, to visualization and breathing exercises. As someone who lives with the condition tinnitus (a ringing noise in the ears), trying to still the mind in a quiet space is challenging at best. But, I believe in the value of meditation and have decided it is time to commit to a strict daily practice, despite this annoying condition I live with. So, given that the importance of meditation is a recurring theme on my show, Extraordinary Women TV, I turned to my archives of interviews with a selection of my past guests — the experts — for some insight.
Here are some of them:
Although I am sad to say that one of those women, Aleksandra Knezevic, founder, HA Solutions, recently passed away – and quite unexpectedly. I had interviewed Knezevic earlier this year about her organization that helps people overcome their mental blocks to achieve their dreams; with meditation being a vital tool. A beautiful, magnetic and energetic woman, she provided one of the simplest explanations of what meditation is that I have come across. “It is going back to yourself,” she said. This is a woman whose journey is the quintessential “immigrant success story,” having come to Canada from war-torn Serbia, speaking little English, to eventually becoming a successful entrepreneur.
When I asked her for her top success tip, she provided the answer in the form of wise advice: “If you would like to change something in your life, just make the decision. And then wake up half an hour early and start the day with ten minutes of meditation.”
Knezevic’s business partner, Laure Ampilhac, co-founder of HA Solutions, is also a firm believer in the power of meditation. Ampilhac turned her life around – from being painfully shy to becoming an outgoing Queen of Networking and public speaker — in part, through a practice of meditation. She facilitates Meditation Works programs throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
Leslie Traill, founder, Sexy Over Sixty, is also an advocate for a disciplined practice of meditation. She incorporates meditation into her coaching services to help her clients — women who are in the mid-forties, fifties, sixties and beyond – learn to meditate, get in touch with their bodies and change their body image in their minds, so they can feel sexy when they otherwise might not. At an age north of 60, Traill looks astonishingly fantastic, which leads me to believe she must be doing something right (find out her secrets!)
Lastly, Salimah Kassim-Lakha, is a yoga teacher and founder/director of YogaVision, which offers transformational experiences through kundalini yoga and laughter yoga. Kassim-Lakha has traveled internationally using yoga — an increasingly popular form of meditation — to lead, heal, teach and transform lives.
The interviews for all of these women can be found at: www.ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com.
If you have a story about how meditation has changed your life, or helped you achieve a goal or success, I would love to hear from you.
My perfect day in New York City
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: Travel Tips for Women
Shannon Skinner writes about her perfect day in New York City.
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If you know me, you know I have a love affair with New York City. It is a city that I find so electrifying and full of life. It is the heartbeat of the world. If you are shaking your head ‘no’ in disagreement with this statement, just imagine what life would be like without the New York Stock Exchange and Wall Street.
This past weekend, I went to New York for some R&R and to get re-energized and inspired. For many people, summer-time is the season to putter in the garden, work on the cottage, or simply chill-out with family while the kids are out of school. I find it is nearly impossible to get down time in my home city of Toronto, regardless of the season. I don’t have a cottage in the Muskokas to escape to. In fact, I never will have a cottage because I have no desire to be anchored to one — I’d rather travel. Probably like you, I have many distractions and a thousand reasons why I should be “working” 24/7. For me, to allow my mind to wind down and vacate for a bit, and to reclaim my energy when it gets depleted (and oh boy it does), I need to get away. In fact, I’ve come to accept that I have no choice.
For many people, travel is considered a luxury. It is something you do once you have wealth, or when you retire. There was a time when I did not travel because I did not have the money or could not take the time away from my work. However, I have come to realize that by taking off time and going to a place that inspires me, I have more energy than I had before, and the inspiration is the gasoline that fuels me to keep being productive and achieve my goals. Without it, my tires go flat. So it does not do me any service to not travel.
I spent Sunday in the most marvellous way. In the morning, a dear friend of mine and I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It has been a few years since I had been to the Met, and I felt a desire to surround myself with the beauty of some of the greatest genius artists since the beginning of time. After a couple of hours of meandering through its vast galleries and halls, my friend and I had a brunch in the Met’s restaurant. How divine it was to sip on a glass of chilled prosecco along with a decent-sized serving of French toast, while surrounded by a view of the park on one side and a bright naturally-lit hall filled with amazing life-size statues on the other.
And with temperature soaring in the 90s in Manhattan, a scorcher of a weekend, the museum’s cool air conditioning was a welcomed reprieve.
The Met, one of the best art museums in the world, offers so much education about art history. As far as my taste in art is concerned, I must admit my favourite artists are the 19th century European impressionists. What’s not to love about Monet’s water lilies? There is something uplifting and almost calming about the work of the impressionists.
The Met has something to offer for everyone, regardless of your taste in art, age, or background. There is always something to learn and experience. And be sure to check out the rooftop terrace, which offers an impressive view of the city.
Following our morning with the art masters, my friend and I found ourselves at the River Café, which is situated under the Brooklyn Bridge, on the Brooklyn river side. We treated ourselves to a beverage at the bar, which had talented piano player behind us and an amazing, unobstructed view of lower Manhattan in front of us. I must add, the restaurant, which is world-renowned, has a lush garden of flowers, one of the best indoor display of flowers I have ever seen, inside the entrance. The restaurant is also famous for holding the graduation party for JFK when he graduated from law school.
The bar had friendly bartenders who entertained my friend and I with their travel stories. Although we did not have anything to eat, from what I could around me, the food looked delicious.
It was a wonderful environment to catch-up with my friend, reminisce, to share dreams, hopes — and a few laughs.
For me, this was the perfect way to spend a Sunday. What’s yours?
Restaurant review: New York’s One if by Land, Two if by Sea, terrific for weekend jazz brunch
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: Travel Tips for Women
Shannon Skinner reviews one of New York City’s most romantic restaurants: One if by Land, Two if by Sea. Shannon experienced the “weekend jazz brunch.”
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On a recent trip to New York City, I had the pleasure of experiencing a Sunday jazz brunch at one of the most romantic restaurants in New York: One if by Land, Two if by Sea. I had heard about the restaurant’s popular weekend jazz brunch and it was on my wish list.
The ambiance was elegant and inviting. While the decor may have somewhat of an old boys club feel to it, which may not appeal to everyone, that masculine energy is balanced with the feminine touch of fresh-cut flowers and candles placed on the tables, and charming chandeliers. Perhaps this establishment is romantic in a cliché sort of way. But, I like it. I enjoy a place with an historic feel, as if one is stepping back in time.
One if by Land, Two if by Sea is rich with history. Located on Barrow Street, it is a landmark Greenwich Village 18th century carriage house that once belonged to vice president Aaron Burr.
The weekend jazz brunch is a great time to experience this place particularly because of the live jazz music, which is only on weekends. It did not disappoint.
My friend and I were seated in the dining room next to the windows with a wonderful view of the courtyard garden, which we managed to reserve in advance. The wait staff were wonderfully friendly and helpful. In fact, when they discovered I was traveling back to Toronto by overnight bus, an experience I set out to explore and write about, the staff thoughtfully packed a “take-away” bag for me filled with some of their delicious bread rolls for my long trip home.
As for the brunch menu, I ordered the strawberry brioche French toast, with rhubarb compote and vanilla anglaise. It was the best French toast I have ever had – seriously ($14). Of course, a Sunday jazz brunch in such a sophisticated setting could not be complete without a refreshing glass of Prosseco ($10).
Other main dishes on the weekend brunch menu include: variety of egg dishes, pancakes, lobster roll, chicken caesar, ahi salad and steak frites. For dessert, be sure to try the caraibe chocolate ganache ($12). Vegetarians (that’s me) might find the menu a bit restrictive, depending on how strict a vegetarian you are. I did ask for some minor adjustments to my dish and they were accommodating. Nonetheless, you are sure to find something satisfying.
The venue is also a terrific place for weddings or any other special occasions. There is the mezzanine that can accommodate a small group; and the party room that can be booked for private functions.
After brunch, when I was leaving, one of the managers kindly walked me (along with my suitcase) to the nearest subway station to ensure I would get there safely – and on to my next destination. I quite appreciated that.
Overall, I thought it was a fabulous experience.
DETAILS:
Restaurant: One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Location: 17 Barrow St., New York City / (212) 255-8649 / www.oneifbyland.com
Ambiance: elegant, comfortable, inviting and not too loud.
Decor: historic boys club feel, balanced with the feminine touch of fresh flowers and candles on the tables. Nicely done.
Service: Friendly and helpful.
Live Jazz Music: Saturdays and Sundays only.
Jazz Brunch price range: starters – $6-21 / main – $13-18 / desserts – $8-12 / coupe d’ amour – $10-13
Jazz Brunch hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Women traveling solo-friendly: yes.
Shannon’s Rating (of 4 stars): ★★★★
photo credit: One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Shannon’s Travel Bag: Travel Tips for Women is an occasional article series of reviews, tips and inspiration for women travelers.
copyright © Shannon Skinner
Avalon Reef Club, Isla Mujeres: hotel review
Shannon's Travel Bag: travel tips for women
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: travel tips for women
Shannon Skinner visits the Avalon Reef Club, Isla Mujeres, Mexico that’s an island unto itself.
I have visited Isla Mujeres, Mexico on three separate occasions over the past two years. It has a wonderful energy and beauty that keeps calling me back. One of the other reasons I love returning is because the locals are so “sunny” — they smile A LOT. It was no exception with the staff at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, whose sunny dispositions and wide-open smiles did not disappoint.
Photo: Aerial view of the resort located on an enchanting private islet that is attached to Isla Mujeres by a small wooden bridge. I felt like I had my own private island. Courtesy Avalon Reef Club
Located on the secluded island of Isla Mujeres, (“Woman Island”), just a 20 mins. ferry ride from Cancun, the Avalon Reef Club, a luxury hotel, sits on its own private islet. After arriving on Isla Mujeres, I took a taxi from the pier to the hotel, which took all of five minutes through the town. We drove along a small wooden bridge across a shallow channel of water to get to the property. Once there, I felt like I had my own private island. Given the name, it is as enchanting as one might expect.
Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, the property offers a spectacular view of the water, amazing sunsets, enjoyment of powdery beaches, rejuvenation of the spirit and romance for those looking for a getaway.
Photo: spacious and modern lobby, complete with a billiards table; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
The amenities are ideal for weddings, retreats, seminars and conferences. I had attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day three-day conference (March 8-10 2012) that was held in the property’s event centre. I attended representing my web TV show, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner, that was the event’s media partner. The event centre itself was located outside the main building, and is circular in shape and bright with lots of windows. (Considering Isla Mujeres means the “Women Island,” I thought it was the perfect setting for such an event.) We were well taken care of by the staff. So if you run retreats or seminars for women, I highly recommend this venue.
Photo: the event centre; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
The hotel offers standard hotel rooms and suites, and also Spanish-style studios that have a few alcoves and a gazebo situated next to the water with a breathtaking view. All rooms in the tower have an ocean view. My room was a standard one. It had everything I needed for my five night stay, including the soothing sound of the rolling waves underneath my window. For small groups, the studios might be an ideal choice.
To me, a hotel’s staff can make or break a stay. The staff at the Avalon Reef Club were friendly, courteous and helpful. In fact, one of the staff at the desk graciously went beyond the line of duty to help me book transportation to the airport from the ferry.
Photo: the Spanish-style studios along the water; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
There are a few restaurant/bar options on-site offering tasty Mexican and international food, although the service was a bit tardy. However, I was in no rush so my patience was not tested.
The hotel’s natural swimming pool looked so inviting, though I did not have time to dip my toe in it, let alone enjoy it, sadly.
The only drawback about this venue to me is that it is quiet at night (especially if you enjoy nightlife). But, depending on your values, this may be a benefit. The hotel is only a 10 mins. walk to bars and restaurants, and the benefit is you can retreat to peace and quiet after a night out.
Photo: the beaches are sugar-white and feel great under the feet, especially on early morning walks; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
The hotel manager, Diana Arriaga, speaks English and is highly resourceful and eager to ensure you enjoy your stay.
For solo women: consider not wearing the wristband that the hotel supplies and instead keeping it in your wallet and showing it when you are required to, rather than walking around the town with it on your wrist. Just be aware the town is small and the wristband does identify where you are staying.
And a note about safety: while there is fear about traveling to Mexico, I have felt perfectly safe traveling solo as a woman to this island on three occasions now. When I asked many of the locals why they live on the island, they all said they felt “safe.” A contributing factor, I learned, is the presence of the Mexican navy base.
Price From: $95-120+ Cdn (inquire about rates and specials)
Who goes? Singles, couples and families.
Style/Character: beach-resort, bed & breakfast/European plan
Service/Staff: Friendly, resourceful, helpful, English-speaking staff – and they smiled a lot.
Rooms: Standard, suites and studios.
Food/Drink: A few restaurant and bar options.
Value for Money: yes
Women traveling solo-friendly: Yes. Consider not wearing the wristband and instead keeping it on your wallet and showing it when you are required to. Inquire about single supplements for hotel rooms.
Family-friendly: yes
Amenities: great for holding weddings, seminars, retreats or conferences, especially for women. There is an on-site spa/salon.
Disabled Access: yes
Local shopping: Lots of shopping is walking distance, in the town’s center.
Where to eat: In the town’s centre, check out Como-No (“Why Not?”), an inviting restaurant/bar that is owned/operated by Canadian Penny Deming, which has a terrific roof patio and entertainment. Barlito offers healthy, inexpensive food. La Luna is a spacious bar/restaurant (Canadian owned/operated).
What not to miss: The Mayan temple to the goddess Ixchel, on the south end of the island.
Nightlife: Check out La Luna Bar and Como-No (rooftop patio) in the town’s centre.
Reservations: http://avalonvacations.com/hotels/avalon_reef_isla_mujeres/
Location: north beach, Isla Mujeres, Mexico.
© Shannon Skinner 2012
I, the Reluctant Speaker
I recall reading some years ago that there are three fears in life:
1. Fear of public speaking
2. Fear of dying, and
3. Fear of dying while public speaking
Cheeky, I know. But, this is exactly how I felt for many years – until recently.
As a professional communicator, I have spent two decades in the field of public relations. I also spent those twenty years hiding from professional public speaking. A big reason was fear (“terror” is a more accurate word), but not all: I simply did not enjoy getting up in front of people and being the centre of attention. Period.
Now, anytime I tell someone about this, they look at me like I have 8 horns growing out of my head. Apparently, I come across as being extroverted (like extroverts are supposed to enjoy public speaking), but, truthfully, inside I feel more like an introvert.
On my recent trip to Isla Mujeres, Mexico, I had some time to reflect (not much, though, as it was packed with activity, plus I got a horrible chest cold). I believe my fear of public speaking stemmed from my first public address in elementary school when I stood up in front of the class and completely forgot my speech. As I stood there as blank as a sheet of paper, the entire class burst into laughter (hey, I would too!). Feeling like the village idiot, I vowed to never let that happen again.
So, I hid from it.
Well, fast-forward to my twenties and thirties, when I worked in the PR agency world for a number of years, I would find any excuse I could to get out of doing major presentations because I was far too nervous (I would call in sick, or conveniently have a scheduling conflict, or come up with some other excuse). I would have rather hammered toothpicks underneath my nails.
In later years, I took a teaching position at a university with one goal in mind: to get over my fear. It helped, but I still did not enjoy getting up in front of people to speak.
So, I still hid from it.
In my relatively new role as an internet TV talk show host, I had to get over my fear of being in front of the camera. Since launching my new career, I continually get asked to speak to groups, on a variety of topics. And I’ve been saying “yes” – willingly.
I realized my reluctance over the years did not have as much to do with speaking in front of a group as it did about having the right topic to speak about. I just needed the right topic and, vavoom…
I recall one of my teachers saying “if you have a gift, it is your responsibility to share it with the world” (thank you, John Demartini). When I got clear that I had a message — listen to your heart’s desires — I realized that this one of the most important aspects of life to me: to listen and follow my heart’s desires — no matter what. And because that is the thing I want deeply, it is also the greatest challenge I have been given. Why? So I strive to learn…and share…
Even having written a book on the subject: “The Whispering Heart: Your Inner Guide to Creativity,” I still have not yet mastered it.
But what I do know, and what I have a lot of practice doing, is striving to follow my heart, getting over the fear to do so, and finding the tools to help me get back on my path when I veer off.
I believe I have been given two gifts: 1. Ability to communicate, and 2. A message worthy of sharing. I also believe it is my responsibility to share the wisdom I have gleaned, including the mistakes and failures. Besides, it’s all a lesson.
When I attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event, I gave a few introductory words and shared a story worthy of hearing, which I share here in this video (below).
My point is this: if you have a fear of public speaking, just know this: so do I. If I can do it, so can you.
I, the Reluctant Speaker….
© Shannon Skinner 2012
special report International Women’s Day We Move Forward 2012, Isla Mujeres, Mexico
I recently attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event, which took place March 8-10, 2012 on Isla Mujeres (“Woman Island”), Mexico. I asked a number of the speakers and participants this question: What does it mean to be a woman?
Here’s what they had to say:
The wind proved to be somewhat of a challenge for recording (hey, it’s an island after all!).
Most of the footage was shot on location at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, and also at the island’s north end at the Mayan ruins of the temple Ixchel.
My show, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner, is the proud media partner.
Yes or no? Stand by your principles
Just this morning, I was thinking about why women (myself included) tend to say ‘yes’ to things we do not want to do. What perfect timing because this just so happens to be a topic today in Forbeswoman!
How many times have you attended a function or special event when really you would have rather done something else with your time? Like wash your hair. You felt obligated to a friend, so you showed up. Or a business associate asks you for a favour that is something against your principles and deep down you know it, you don’t want to do it, but you do it anyway – probably to appease them.
Is it because we are conditioned to be nurturers and therefore somewhere in a dark corner of our minds do not want to hurt feelings, or be rejected? I’m not certain there is a black and white answer to this question, but I do believe the more worth and confidence we have in ourselves, the more easily we can make decisions based on what is good for us – and say ‘yes’ or ‘no,’ as appropriate.
I recall years ago one of my mentors telling me to stand by my principles no matter what, which requires saying ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ I strive to do this in my business and in life. However, I am reminded of a situation when a client asked me to provide some information related to my business that I was unwilling to share, because it was against my principles to supply that information they were wanting. I had told this person a number of times that I would not do it, but they pressed for it.
At the time, I came up with what I thought was a compromise: I would provide a portion of what they wanted, but not everything, and if I did that, I would keep the relationship in good standing and I would not compromise myself “too much.”
Too much???!!
It didn’t work.
The reason it didn’t work is because I was pissed off with myself for going again my principles in the first place. Now I realize it would have been better to piss off the other person than to piss off myself, by saying a flat-out ‘no.’
Lesson learned.
Do you stand by your principles? How do you handle it when someone asks you to do something you do not want to do?
© Shannon Skinner 2012
Moving forward, using all my breath…
This past week, I was in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, attending the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day event. The reason this event was so significant is its location: Isla Mujeres means “Woman Island” in Spanish. The event brought together dozens of women from across Canada, the United States, Mexico and other destinations, to hear some incredible speakers and storytellers, share their visions, and celebrate being a woman.
I attended representing “Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner,” the event’s media partner. When I first heard about this event several months ago, I wanted to be involved, since I had been to Isla Mujeres and fell in love with it, and resonated with the concept of bringing women together for IWD.
The event, which had a spiritual retreat flavour, took place at the wonderful Avalon Reef Club resort and focused on the central theme: moving forward.
(photo: courtesy of Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, Mexico)
It was a success! So many people involved deserve a special thanks — far too many to be named individually in one blog post. So I will say KUDOS to ALL involved. And one big round of applause for Janeen Halliwell, who conceived and spearheaded the event.
(photo: Janeen Halliwell)
The event kicked off with cocktails at CoMoNo (“Why Not?”), owned and operated by Canadian Penny Deming. Each day started with a mindful movement session conducted by wonderful practitioners, followed by a yummy, healthy breakfast (sponsored by Barlito’s), then a day filled with speakers and storytellers.The featured speakers really touched hearts – thanks to: Monica Parker, Kristin Crowe, Judith Jenya and Elizabeth Mahon.
The facilitators were amazing: Janeen Halliwell, Christie Andrus and Cathy & Ed McKenzie.
(photo: Janeen and Katie, closing ceremony dinner)
The storytellers added another layer of depth and entertainment – kudos to: Alison Sawyer Current, Molly Fisher, Pamela Maddox, and Lorna Tychostup. One of the highlights was a special ceremony conducted by Mayan Elder, Mary Coba, who took us through a traditional Mayan ceremony, honouring the earth and elements.
(photo: Mary Coba, Mayan elder, conducting traditional Mayan ceremony)
(photo: the room where the event was held at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres)
There was a fiesta in the town square, dancing and a wonderful closing ceremony and dinner. And, of course, a little time to enjoy the sights.
(photo: the waves are soothing)
Hats off to the Avalon Reef Club for outstanding service, and especially the hotel’s general manager, Diana Arriaga.
Many women had breakthroughs during the event. I gleaned some of my own personal insights that I will share over the next while, but in the meantime, here’s something to whet your appetite:
1. It’s not always about business, even when it is business: Even when we attend events to network and potentially land business for ourselves, sometimes the gift you get from a business association may not business-related at all. Sometimes it is as simple as an idea of a way of life for yourself, or a new friend.
2. Everyone is needed: No matter what your background is, what clothing size you wear, what preferences you have, or what job or career you have, everyone has a role in society and we need everyone to make it happen.
3. Sometimes you just need to rest: Unfortunately, I caught a nasty cold mid-way through the week on Isla Mujeres. I did something unusual while traveling: I rested, so I could let my body heal.
Overall, my personal take-away from the event is this: I’m moving forward, using all my breath (as sung by Modern English) … I have a bigger dream and vision for myself, and having attended this event and gleaned some extraordinary insights, I will put all my energy into those forward steps.
Give this a whirl: so what steps will you take this week to move forward with your dream?
Stay tuned for more to come in the series.
© Shannon Skinner 2012
