Tag: bloggers

Starting Over At 50. Finding Purpose Again

Midlife transitioners face feelings of sadness especially when work, independence and purpose feel out of reach. This is a common scenario I have found in my coaching practice amongst mature women. They complain, sulk and feel ‘why bother’ (as in the case of a recent discussion). For women experiencing these feelings, here are 7 thoughtful strategies of how 50+-year-old women in this situation can begin moving forward. Adopting these strategies can help them regain control of their life, emotionally, practically, and spiritually.

1.Start With Emotional Healing

Before any external progress, healing the inner voice is key.

  • Acknowledge your feelings; grief, frustration, even shame, as valid. You’re not alone; many older adults feel invisible or “left behind” as the four stages of elimination in life profess.
  • Seek emotional support: a counselor, therapist, or support group for midlife depression can help rebuild self-worth.
  • Practice daily motivation and affirmations: “My life still has purpose.” “I am capable of starting again.” Small mindset shifts add up.
  • Faith & reflection: If you’re spiritually inclined, journaling prayers or reading devotionals about renewal (e.g., Isaiah 43:19… “Behold, I am doing a new thing…”) can anchor your hope.

2.Rebuild Self-Worth and Confidence

Depression often comes from feeling “useless,” so rediscovering value is important.

  • Revisit strengths and experiences. Make a list of past achievements, career skills, and life lessons.
  • Volunteer or mentor. Helping others (e.g., tutoring, mentoring younger professionals, or supporting community causes) reminds her that her wisdom matters.
  • Refresh her image. A new hairstyle, headshot, or wardrobe doesn’t just change how others see her — it helps her feel renewed.

3.Redefine Purpose and Direction

You may be entering a new season, not the end of your working life. Shift from “job-seeking” to “value-offering.” Instead of asking “who will hire me?” you should ask, “where can my experience help someone solve a problem?”

Consider flexible or freelance work:

  • Virtual assistant or remote admin work
  • Customer service, tutoring, or caregiving
  • Consulting in your former field
  • Selling crafts, baked goods, or eBooks online
  • Take free online courses (Coursera, Google Digital Skills, LinkedIn Learning) to update your skillset and confidence.

4.Improve Her Job Search Strategy

Age can be an advantage when presented with confidence and skill.

  • Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Focus on experience, reliability, and mentoring skills rather than long timelines.
  • Network quietly and personally. Reach out to old colleagues or community connections; many opportunities come through relationships, not job boards.
  • Target age-friendly employers (AARP’s “Employer Pledge Program” lists companies committed to older workers).

5.Stabilize Finances and Environment

Small changes can ease immediate stress.

  • Seek community or senior resources: local housing or utility assistance programs, food banks, or financial coaching through nonprofits.
  • Budget for empowerment, not punishment. Even small control (like managing one bill or goal) restores agency.
  • Explore part-time or gig work (e.g., Instacart, pet-sitting, or online micro-tasks) as temporary bridges.

6. Build a New Daily Routine

Structure gives life purpose.

  • Morning: prayer, gratitude, short walk
  • Midday: job search, learning, or volunteer time
  • Evening: journal one positive action from the day
    Even a simple daily rhythm can counter the “stuck” feeling.

7. Believe in Renewal


It’s never too late to rebuild. Many people in their 50’s and beyond start new careers, businesses, and callings. Your story isn’t over…it’s shifting.
Be encouraged. See yourself not as “unemployed,” but as “relaunching.”

Reflection:

“If I could start fresh today, what small step would make me feel proud by the end of this week?”

Hope these strategies help you overcome these feelings of apathy. If you’re not in that sphere and know someone who might be, please share with them. We are also here to help women regain confidence for their new chapter.

Cheers!

What Are You Harvesting This Fall?

What’s an Author and Leadership Coach presenting at a Garden Fall Festival? Aah but there are similarities. My work is about Personal Growth. Just like farmers plant seeds, all of us plant Goals.  The idea is to water and care for them just like we do plants.

Personally, I love plants but I’m a ‘plant killer’, be it orchids or other beautiful plants. They all end up withered. As time passed, I started gifting them or hiring professionals to care for them. That’s a gift that I didn’t get.

Against that background, here I share 3 points that I hope will help you reflect this Fall.

1.Plant with Intention

Every great harvest begins with a seed, and so do your dreams. Whether your goal is to start a business, write a book, get healthier, or grow spiritually, you must plant it intentionally. Don’t just wish, sow. Choose what you want to see in your future and begin with small, consistent actions.

2.Nurture with Patience

 A seed doesn’t sprout overnight. It takes watering, sunlight, and care. Likewise, your goals need patience, persistence, and faith. You may not see progress immediately, but don’t stop nurturing your vision. Keep showing up, keep learning, and trust the process.

3.Protect Your Growth

Every garden has weeds and pests—and life has distractions and doubts. Protect your goals from negativity, procrastination, and fear. Surround yourself with people and environments that feed your growth, not drain it.

4.Reap With Gratitude

When your harvest comes, whether it’s success, a new opportunity, or even lessons learned, celebrate it. Give thanks for the journey, the people who supported you, and the challenges that helped you grow stronger.

This Fall, as we celebrate the physical harvest around us let’s also think about the seeds we’re planting in our lives. Because what you plant today you harvest tomorrow.

So plant wisely, nurture faithfully and reap joyfully. Thank you, and may your harvest overflow with abundant blessings.

Get Ready for a change this season by connecting now. Level up your motivation with your copy of Motivational Quotes Book available now.

Spooky Leadership: 3 Frights That Haunt the Workplace (and How to Fix Them) …

Spooky Leadership

Do one thing everyday that scares you.

As the spooky season approaches, it’s not just ghosts and goblins giving people chills. Sometimes leadership habits can be downright spooky!

1. The Invisible Leader

Disappears when the team needs them most. No feedback, no presence, just crickets.

FIX: Show up. Visibility builds trust. A simple check-in can turn uncertainty into motivation.

2.The Zombie Communicator

Repeats the same messages with no real emotion or connection. Team meetings feel lifeless.

FIX: Revive communication! Be intentional, listen actively, and personalize your message.

3.The Vampire of Ideas

Sucks up all the credit and leaves others drained. Recognition? Nowhere in sight.

FIX: Share the spotlight. Empower your team and celebrate contributions publicly.

This season, take a moment to unmask your leadership style. Make sure you are not the one haunting your workplace and if you are, let’s connect to clear the spookiness.

Are there thoughts you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

South Florida Writers Of Color Online Literary Magazine…

I am Somebody. We are Somebody. ~ Dr. Ralph Hogges

Beyond the Bend of Trees Avenue

By Patricia Reid-Waugh

You would think that a street named ‘Trees Avenue’ would be lined with tall, manicured trees of exotic variety, standing like sentries on either side of the roadway. Strangers entering the L-shaped avenue might imagine that around the bend, leafy branches would shield them from the blistering sun, and a rustling chorus of leaves would welcome them. But such was not the street on which I lived.

My ‘Trees Avenue’ was no different from other residential roads nearby, paved in asphalt, with a strip of grass separating the roadway from the walls of each property. Neither my parents nor the other homeowners thought it important to give the street a personality matching its name. To the casual visitor, it looked tidy, pleasant, but rather ordinary.

The houses stood close to the front boundaries, verandahs stretching wide to court the evening breeze. These verandahs became living rooms in their own right, alive with laughter, morning greetings, neighborly gossip, and the occasional raised voice.

2025 The South Florida Writers of Color MagazineDownload

CHERISH

By S. Ettosi Brooks

I remember my people; like a piece of sweet, firm sugar cane spilling its juice over my tongue and lips; lips framing expressions of a language of thunder and soft rain. My roots – peopled with characters of such unassuming elegance I could not really see them until, exiled, I craved remembrances like sweet sugar cane. What sweeter dance than a handcart man, lithe, muscled – swinging and dipping, black sinews rippling their way down Orange Street.

Journey to Spiritual Growth: A Path Toward Lasting Transformation

By Dr. Delores Smiley

Journey to Spiritual Growth is a Christ-centered ministry designed to guide believers toward a deeper, more intentional walk with God. Rooted in the call to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength,” this ministry provides practical tools and clear teachings to help individuals grow in spiritual knowledge, examine their hearts, and live out the commandments of love – preparing for heaven as the ultimate home. It recognizes that faith is not a single event but a lifelong journey that calls us to grow in understanding, surrender our hearts, and live out the commandments of love.

Maximize Holiday Book Sales: A Month by Month Guide

Effective preparation sets the stage for success and sparks creativity

Authors write, publish and leave expecting miracles. It doesn’t happen. Authorship happens mostly by accident as writers choose to share what’s on their hearts. It might be a memoir, poetry, fiction or non-fiction. As their passion unfold, they write then later realize that they have suddenly been thrust into entrepreneurship! How do they get those books off bookstore shelves? Selected on amazon? Shared among family and friends? It behooves them to sit, pray, and wonder why their books just remains stagnant. Most often these are excellent stories that remains dormant for years, not gleaned by readers.

Realizing this pattern, the Writers Group of South Florida held a workshop. Hosted by the West Regional Library in Plantation. This initiative was facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron. Here’s a summary of the takeaway points that attendees authors gleaned.

AUGUST – SEPTEMBER: Build the Foundation & Warm Up Your Audience

  • Update book cover, blurb, and Amazon listing with holiday-friendly touches.
  • Secure podcast, blog, and media features for October–December.
  • Plan holiday content calendar (mix of promos, tips, behind-the-scenes, giveaways).
  • Launch pre-order bonuses or limited-time bundles.

October: Visible Campaign & Early Gift Push

  • Submit to gift guides, bloggers, and niche media lists.
  • Collaborate with other authors for holiday bundles or giveaways.
  • Feature reader testimonials and reviews on social media.
  • Run Early Bird discounts to attract early shoppers.

November: Holiday Sales Mode

  • Run a gratitude-themed campaign for Thanksgiving.
  • Offer Black Friday/Cyber Monday E-Book discounts or signed copy specials.
  • Partner with local stores for Small Business Saturday promotions.
  • Send an email countdown series leading up to Thanksgiving.

December: Final Holiday Push

  • Promote e-Books and gift certificates for last-minute shoppers.
  • Run a “12-Days-of-Christmas” themed social media series.
  • Position your book for New Year’s resolutions or inspiration.
  • Post thank-you messages and celebrate your readers

PRO TIPS for Conversions

  • Author Branding Matters: Use consistent holiday visuals across all platforms.
  • Offer Multiple Formats: Paperback, e-Book, Audio-book—make it easy to gift.
  • Make It Shareable: Create “I’m gifting this book!” social media graphics for readers to post.
  • Always Include a Call-to-Action: Don’t just post pretty images—always link to buy.
  • Track & Adjust: Watch which promos get clicks and double down on what works.

There you have it. Did one, two or a few of the above stand out for you? As a published author, which will you adopt? Do share, we would love to hear.

Happy Promoting!

I Write Because….

I now write with that sense of urgency to get what’s inside of me ….I write because I have learned from the mistakes and mishaps of others.

I Write Because….

Vibrant Perspective

Crowded Airport when a woman exclaimed “I love your colors”. Adorned in summer colors, I replied crazy, right? Ahhh vibrancy she chirped. Vibrancy.

I leaned over and whispered back with a smile “vibrancy” and walked on.

I thought of that interface with a complete stranger. Such simple passerby exchange yet amicable. It left me thinking about perspective. It’s late evening and I’m taking the last flight out. I Only wanted to take a carryon to my out of state meeting so I placed the hot yellow necklace around my neck. Added the orange shoes with a red pants. But I’m known for that. I do things others are afraid to do, all with a purpose… my purpose to take one bag (smile)

How about you? Do you do things that perturb others leaving them wondering… could that be me? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

From Manuscript to Bestseller: Unleash Your Publishing Potential

If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.

Martin Luther

Listen to the recording here

Are you a writer with a story burning to be told, but feeling overwhelmed by the traditional publishing maze? Listen to this electrifying workshop facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron on behalf of Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library. The tips and tricks will transform your publishing dreams from wishful thinking to strategic action.

In this game-changing discussion, you’ll discover the exact blueprint successful self-published authors use to launch their books, build their audience, and generate real income. We’ll pull back the curtain on the traditional vs self-publishing industry, revealing insider strategies that most writers never learn—from choosing the right platforms and mastering digital formatting to marketing techniques that actually sell books. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to take control of your publishing journey, this session promises to equip you with practical, immediately actionable insights. Stop waiting for someone else to validate your story. Listen and Learn how to become the author you’ve always dreamed of being—on your own terms, with your own power. Don’t miss your chance to revolutionize your writing career.

Key Insights: Publishing Questions from Authors You Must Know

Many questions were asked throughout the presentation. Here are a 14.

  1. Should you use Ai for Book cover designs?
  2. Are authors required to let readers know that you used Ai?
  3. What is the full marketing potential for a book?
  4. How do you translate a book into another language?
  5. How do you negotiate speaking fees for your book?
  6. Are there any supporting groups to guide on how to format books on KDP?
  7. How can you hire someone to help with publishing?
  8. I’m doing away with writing the Foreword or comments on back of book. What’s the trend?
  9. Do you have resources to look for the audiobooks?
  10. How much can editors charge for beginner writers?
  11. How do you copyright a book?
  12. How do you find someone to edit your work?
  13. How can I get more exposure for sales other than amazon?
  14. Do I have to be a published author to be an editor?

If you’re interested in publishing your book, listen to the presentation and accompanying responses. If you need help, we are passionate about publishing. Reach out for help today and realize your publishing dream!

Happy Writing!

Success Stories: 15 Women of Color Who Self-Published

“A word after a word after a word is power.”

Margaret Atwood

The publishing process can be intimidating for an unknown writer. The traditional Agent-Publisher-Author relationship is hard. Rejection after rejection is common as Agents say ‘no’. Writers become discouraged and often give up. Manuscripts stay in the darkness of desk drawers for years.

As time has involved, so has the advent of self-publishing. Writers become bold and take advantage of their publishing plight. They make bold moves; step ahead, take the reins to achieve their publishing goal of becoming an author. With low budget and unplanned expenses, some cut corners and quality becomes compromised. Book covers are mediocre. Titles lack depth. Formatting is non-existent, which leads to the demise of some great manuscripts.

On the other hand, some writers step out, work hard, invest, learn the process, and viola! Success follows!

Self-Publishing Success

Here are 15 Authors of color who achieved significant success through self-publishing:

  1. Toni Morrison – While primarily known for her traditionally published works, she self-published her first novel “The Bluest Eye” before gaining wider recognition
  2. Terry McMillan – Initially self-published her debut novel “Mama” before securing a publisher for subsequent works
  3. N.K. Jemisin – First self-published some of her fantasy work before becoming the first author to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row
  4. Alexandria House – Found success self-publishing contemporary romance novels featuring Black characters
  5. Kristen Ashley – Built a dedicated following through self-publishing her romance novels before signing with traditional publishers
  6. Brenda Jackson – Pioneer in African American romance who began with self-publishing before becoming a New York Times bestseller
  7. Alyssa Cole – Initially self-published her diverse romance novels before becoming an award-winning author
  8. K.M. Jackson – Self-published romance author who found success writing diverse contemporary stories
  9. Nikki Turner – Self-published her first urban fiction novel before becoming known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Fiction”
  10. Beverly Jenkins – Started self-publishing historical romances featuring Black characters when traditional publishers showed little interest
  11. Sister Souljah – Self-published “The Coldest Winter Ever” which became a groundbreaking street lit phenomenon
  12. Nnedi Okorafor – Self-published some of her early Africanfuturist works before winning multiple prestigious awards
  13. Kiini Ibura Salaam – Award-winning speculative fiction writer who self-published collections of her short stories
  14. Octavia Butler – Though mostly known for her traditionally published works, she self-published some early stories
  15. Zane – Built an erotic fiction empire beginning with self-published works before launching her own publishing company

These authors demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and literary talent often creating space for Black women’s voices. This occurred at a time when traditional publishing wasn’t receptive to their work. Many of these women went on to sign traditional deals. Suffice it to say they proved their commercial viability through self-publishing. Others maintained independence throughout their careers.

Need help to get over your fear to make the leap? Let these women inspire your journey. Thoughts about any of these or other women of color who have experienced success? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!


A Conversation With Journalist & Award Winning Story Teller Sharon Gordon

Absolutely thrilled to announce that Sharon Gordon’s debut book “Sheribaby is NOW AVAILABLE!

Journalist Sharon, is the talented 2025 Award winning Storyteller and niece of beloved Jamaica’s Singer Songwriter Beresford Hammond.

I met Sharon a decade ago when Reggae music matriarch Miss Patricia Chin, hosted my Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders book event at VP Records, New York.

It’s been such an honor to guide Sharon through the book publishing journey – from connecting her with Raquel, the perfect editor for her genre, to navigating publisher conversations and finally seeing her words in print.

Her dedication to the craft and willingness to embrace the publishing process made this success inevitable. This is why I do what I do!

Congratulations Sharon! Indeed, hard work pays off!

If you have been dreaming of becoming a published author but aren’t sure where to start, let Sharon’s journey inspire you. With the right guidance, YOUR story could be next on the shelves!

Order your copy of Sheribaby today https://a.co/d/5R50Nwu and follow Sharon’s author journey

Enjoy our literary conversation here.

Writers of Color Women’s Empowerment Initiative

“Ask yourself, what would I do if I weren’t afraid? And then go do it” — Sheryl Sandberg

Inspiring. Intentional. Take charge. Grow. These were common words that described the Writers Group of South Florida’s Women Empowerment Event held at the West Regional Library in Plantation, Florida.

Guests turned out in numbers to be educated or refreshed as seasoned authors shared nuggets on leadership, balance, wellbeing, and becoming financially independent.

Thanks to fellow writer GMoss Designs for being Instrumental and singer songwriter Ettosi Brooks for the delightful music entertainment.

Panelists Award winning Reggae legend Miss Pat Chin and others did an exceptional job in highlighting the challenges women face as well as the Strategies to overcome.

Missed it? Plan for it Next year same time.

Cheers!

50 Things I’ve Learned In The Last 50 Years

50 Lessons At 50

Wisdom deepens with age, and at 50, it’s a treasure.

Here are 50 things I have learnt as I traversed a life dedicated to learning, community and personal growth of myself and others. The excess have been included as a gift for those who are more curious and may choose to adopt a nugget or two as you transition at ages 30, 40, 60 or above.

May you be inspired to achieve.

  1. Let no one define what success means to you. Define it for yourself.
  2. Afraid? Do it anyway. Fear will fade.
  3. Life is just for living. Live it well.
  4. Care for others.
  5. Trust is important.
  6. Try new things. Keep learning. It helps you grow.
  7. Self-actualization stops at the top. When you get there, go higher or step back to something that you missed along the way.
  8. Be there for your loved ones. If not, you’ll miss the best things in life.
  9. Find meaning in the things that you do.
  10. Place Work in the right place.
  11. Spirituality is important.
  12. Some people are beautiful. Others are just searching. They Maybe sad or even lonely. Don’t hold it against them.
  13. When you’re at the top, stay true to who you are. You’ll see the same people on your way down.
  14. Be cordial. It contributes to your success.
  15. Smile often. It attracts.
  16. Read. It’s an action.
  17. Pray about everything.
  18. Give thanks in all things.
  19. Say thank you.
  20. Stay curious. Ask Questions.
  21. Find a mantra – a quote that drives you to achieve.
  22. Believe that all things are possible because they are.
  23. Get a dog.
  24. Don’t understand something? Ask. You may help someone in the same situation as yourself.
  25. Show up.
  26. Get involved in your community.
  27. Roll up your sleeves and work.
  28. Go to the beach. Be mesmerized by the waves, the sea and its natural beauty.
  29. Look up. Get inspired.
  30. Dream it. Then work it. You’ll achieve it.
  31. Embrace love. It’s beautiful.
  32. Fight for what you want.
  33. Don’t give up too easily.
  34. Be smart. Know when it’s time to let go.
  35. Move on when the time is right.
  36. Try something new.
  37. Get away often. Stress dissipates.
  38. Travel the world.
  39. Try a staycation.
  40. Bask in beautiful memories.
  41. Celebrate other’s success.
  42. Mourn with those who mourn.
  43. Appreciate depth.
  44. Be yourself… always.
  45. You’re never too old to try something new.
  46. Take care of yourself.
  47. Listen to your body. It speaks.
  48. Save for a rainy day.
  49. Age teaches wisdom but it also brings sighs when you watch others making the mistakes you did because they won’t listen. But remember everyone has to grow on their own path. Don’t be sad, they will learn and make their own U-turn.
  50. Pray with others.
  51. Listen to that still small voice.
  52. Don’t let life pass you by. Stop and smell the roses.
  53. Stay engaged. Learn.
  54. Relax. Watch a movie.
  55. Smell the rain. Embrace the sunshine.
  56. Plan a trip with extended family.
  57. Be there for someone who needs you.
  58. Dress up for no reason.
  59. Have dinner by yourself. Experience you.
  60. Surprise a friend.
  61. It’s time. Don’t put it off anymore.
  62. Go for a walk. Ease stress.
  63. Call a parent, grandparent or someone elderly.
  64. Volunteer to help a neighbor.
  65. Go on a solo retreat at least once in your lifetime. You’ll find out a lot about yourself.
  66. Keep your eye on that goal.
  67. Get an accountability partner or a coach if you need help.
  68. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
  69. Journal your thoughts. It’s great to look back and reflect on how far you have come. Besides, it helps build mental strength.
  70. Keep your mouth shut. Share only what needs to be said.
  71. You can count on me. Can others count on you?
  72. Take accountability for your actions.
  73. Stay focused on your future but don’t become so obsessed that you miss the journey.
  74. Life is what you make it. Make it great.
  75. You win some. You lose some. That’s life. Move on.
  76. Celebrate.
  77. Dance like nobody is watching.

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