Tag: inspiration

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!

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!

Morning Rituals in Rural Mendez: Coffee and Nature

A walk in nature walks the soul back home. –Mary Davis

Meandering rural life—Mendez to be exact. All is quiet. Birds chirping as early morning risers stir. One waiting atop the yard’s fence. Scrolling, watching social media platforms, my guess. Others busy collecting water from tanks to prepare breakfast. Shower, get refreshed as each forge ahead getting ready for the day—whatever lies ahead.

Taxis, the main source of transportation, make haste on the soon to be busy road. They look, at times toot, to alert waiting passengers.

Coffee With a View

Coffee in hand, it was my chance to review the surroundings. The skeletons of a huge Mango tree await its next fruit-bearing season. Coconut tree sears high above the sky—as if saying to the others, “dare to rise above me.” Oh the power to see above and beyond everything. Banana leaves flicker against its stem. The Ackee tree buds promises of the country’s national dish and breakfast cravings. And Oh, the sways of the delicious avocado tree. A sure replica of island life in the land of wood and water–Jamaica to be exact.

I peer into the distance to see my grandpa’s grave—memories of decades gone by. I envision life as he too saw it.

Cheers as you too take time out to think about rural life.

Boost Book Sales This Holiday Season: Strategies for Authors

Writing a book without promoting it is like waving to someone in a dark room. You know what you have done but nobody else does ~ Madi Pred

Publish and Run? ️Books don’t just sell themselves, authors promote and readers read, review and recommend.

Join us to learn tips to Get your book noticed—and sold—this holiday season! At this event, authors will learn practical strategies to refresh their brand, promote their books, and connect with readers during the busiest shopping time of the year. Whether you’re self-published or traditionally published, you’ll leave with actionable tips to increase visibility, drive holiday sales, and make your book a perfect gift pick!

Facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron, President of Writers Group of South Florida

🗓️Saturday, September 6th
11:00am – 12:30 pm

💳Hosted by:
WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
8601 W. Broward Blvd,
Plantation FL 33324

®️Register on Broward Public Library
Or Use QR code

August Birthday Celebration: Gifts of Personal Growth

Growth is the best gift you can give yourself

August birth month celebration because Growth is the best gift you can give yourself. August is my birth month – and that means YOU get the presents! Whether you’re a past client, a friend, or someone ready to take your next big step, here’s how you can join the celebration.

5 Leadership Lessons from Great Teachers

Dead Poets Society

Clarity builds trust and momentum

Summer is almost over and it’s time to make all those back-to-school plans. As we make those plans, lets pause for a minute. Think of a teacher or two who made a difference in your life. Personally, as I age, I think about those teaching experiences and the effect they had on my leadership journey. As I look back, I think of society’s great teachers like Erin Gruwell, Maria Montessori, and the fictional Mr. Keating (Dead Poets Society).

Here are 5 lessons leaders can learn from great teachers.

1.Clarity is Powerful

Teachers break down complex topics into simple, digestible pieces.
Leaders must do the same—clearly communicate vision, expectations, and feedback so everyone understands what success looks like.

Lesson: Say less, mean more. Clarity builds trust and momentum.

2. Patience Enables Progress

Teachers know learning takes time and that growth isn’t always linear.
Leaders should extend grace and patience during times of transition, failure, or new learning curves—whether with teams or themselves.

Lesson: Progress often looks like repetition before results.

3. Individual Strengths Matter

Great teachers recognize that not every student learns the same way.
Great leaders acknowledge that not every employee works, leads, or grows the same. They tailor support, roles, and recognition accordingly.

Lesson: Personalize your leadership to bring out the best in each person.

4. Structure Creates Freedom

Teachers use routines and structure to create a safe space for creativity and exploration.
Leaders who implement clear systems give their teams the confidence and autonomy to take initiative.

Lesson: Strong frameworks unlock innovative thinking.

5. Passion Inspires Performance

Teachers who genuinely care spark curiosity and motivation.
Leaders who lead with purpose, authenticity, and heart cultivate higher engagement and loyalty.

Lesson: When you model passion, people give their best

As school begins its opening session, the road becomes a task / lesson plan in and of itself. What are your thoughts on the top five lessons? Anything missing that you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.

Don’t forget to connect if you would like to discuss your own leadership growth journey.

Jamaica’s Port Royal, A Summer Must Visit

A Port Royal Tale

When most people think of Jamaica, they think of white sandy beaches and tons of fun in the sun. Yes indeed! It’s all that! And if you’ve never been, you should!

But the island is more than that. It’s filled with rich history. A land full of learning. Oh yes, Learning comes in different forms. To understand the future you have to look back.

To understand the future, you have to look back.

After Calabash Literary Festival, I visited Port Royal, the historical site tagging along with my girls. A visit I thought ‘boring’ but agreed to go. My older daughter wanted her boys to learn about the land of her birth.

Boy was I in for a surprise! The rich history that existed in that place was unfathomable. Now that I’m older, I was able to connect the dots. Here’s a brief overview.

Canons and Pirates

Initially inhabited by Pirates, canons were evident everywhere. Captain’s quarters provided full length windows showing 360-degree visuals of views from the Caribbean Sea. This was a way to prepare for potential battle while enhancing supervision from all corners.

Giddy House

Giddy House was named for the feeling visitors get when they try to stand straight inside. It was an artillery house that stored defense items. Giddy house was struck by an earthquake in 1907 and partially sank.

Trees And Secret Spots

Hundred-year-old trees provided way more than shelter. Their magnificence can’t be missed.

Secret spots were noticeable everywhere. All conducive to the life of a pirate to protect, attack, and surprise.

Earthquake’s Effects

Sadly, Port Royal suffered the major earthquake. A natural disaster that sunk the area leaving remnants of what once was.

The sea’s backdrop midst the sun’s heat, was nothing compared to the learning gleaned. Our family walked away with rich learning of stories told and untold.

Fish Sealed Experience

A sumptuous meal of fish and festival at nearby restaurant sealed the simple yet remarkable experience.

Plan a visit. I hear the area is now a point of renovated focus for the beautiful island of Jamaica.

Cheers!

What’s The Perfect Door Prize? 21 Gift Ideas for Networking Events That Shine

Show up. Let yourself be seen. ~Brene Brown

What’s a networking event without door prizes? Boring (smile). So, event organizers encourage gifts. They are a simple yet powerful way to boost engagement, excitement, and attendance at networking events. They create a sense of the anticipation and fun, making the event more memorable for participants. Door prizes also encourage people to arrive on time, stay longer, and interact more freely with others. Besides entertainment, they offer a subtle marketing opportunity for sponsors, hosts, or businesses to showcase their products or services in a positive light.

The PSL Business Club asked the question: “What is the Perfect door prize to give away at networking events?” Members chimed in. Some suggested giving what you would like to receive. Others suggested giving away high-end gifts that will make you the talk of the event. Gift these over several periods and you’re sure to leave a lasting memory. Here I share key gift ideas extracted as members chimed in.

Gifts That Shine

  1. Wellness bundle energy drinks
  2. Journal, fun pen, small devotional or motivational card set
  3. Cute mugs which says “let’s connect over coffee”
  4. Pair a small gift care ($10-$15) with a handwritten note or business card enclosing a product sample
  5. Branded item that’s actually helpful
  6. Gift cards to local restaurants.
  7. Something useful like Coffee gift cards
  8. Wine or Vodka
  9. Dark chocolate and a gift card or voucher to try branded services
  10. Cool shirt
  11. Stanley or Yeti cup
  12. Gift baskets
  13. Branded swag bundle from the host company
  14. Branded items or one/two from local businesses or gift certificates
  15. Candy
  16. Homemade cookies
  17. Hand-painted items
  18. Chocolates from a chocolatier
  19. Beach accessories
  20. Fun items that’s non-business related
  21. Dot card… to make sharing information easier at networking event

High-End Gifts

Higher end gifts creates a lasting memory of your brand. Such gifts are:

  • Massage or Spa packages
  • Weekend getaway at hotel
  • Dinner for two at a high-end/classy restaurant
  • Tickets to a concert/play

There you have it! Here’s hoping it takes the guess work out of your gift giving when attending your next event.

The Story Behind Success Strategies (And What’s Coming Next …

I love to write! It’s a passion that began during my primary education years. I reflect on those early years. Back then, my uncle (an educator and school principal), would gift me with a book on birthdays and Christmas holidays. This was his custom instead of the usual and more preferential ‘toys’. Though disappointed then, I would dive into the books reading for hours.

As life progressed and blogging became a thing, I created my first blog A Moment With Shells in 2010. Later, on completion on my postgraduate education, I formalized this blog titled Successful Leaders to share my passion. It focused on empowering developing leaders through personal growth, leadership development, and success strategies.

That was a over a decade ago. Funny how time flies when you’re having fun!

Here’s an overview of my efforts to create articles, writings, or gleanings. The idea was to uplift, encourage subscribers and visitors under the headings listed.

Goal Setting & Achievement

The blog emphasizes the importance of setting clear, actionable goals. It encourages readers to commit to their objectives, keep them visible, and seek accountability to stay on track. Inspirational quotes from figures like Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins are used to motivate readers to design their own life plans and persist in their pursuits.

Discovering Purpose & Passion

Articles guide readers in uncovering their life purpose by reflecting on personal experiences, childhood interests, and unique talents. Techniques such as visualization, journaling, and seeking feedback from friends are recommended to help individuals find fulfillment and direction.

Stress Management & Work Life Balance

The website offers strategies for managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance. It highlights the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, seeking professional support, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being.

Embracing Change & Personal Growth

Recognizing when it’s time for change is a recurring theme. Writings discuss signs that indicate the need for a new direction and encourages readers to take proactive steps toward personal development. It also emphasizes the courage required to make significant life changes.

Writing, Publishing & Legacy Building

For aspiring authors, the site provides insights into the publishing process, including self-publishing and audiobook production. It also encourages writers to reflect on their life experiences and consider the legacy they wish to leave through their work.

Overall, Successful Leaders serves as a resource for individuals seeking inspiration and practical advice on personal development, leadership, career change and achieving success in various aspects of life.

Subscribe Now! Get on Board

Subscribe to keep updated on upcoming new and exciting developments. Have you been a follower? If so, how long and how have you benefited? Do share, we would love to hear!

Cheers!

Top 12 Places to Donate Your Books

With so many books to choose from, you’ll have the hard part of deciding which one to donate.

On Instagram I shared the hard task of purging my books. I have a million with little or no storage space. But what happened was…. During my purge, I ended up reading and re-claiming books.

I decided to share my work (purge in process), and an interested person asked, “where can you donate books?” I responded briefly but decided to post more here on the blog.

Popular and Unique Places to Donate Books

Local Donation Options

  1. Public Libraries
    • Many libraries accept gently used books for their collections or book sales.
    • Call ahead—they often have specific donation days or guidelines.
  2. Schools & Colleges
    • Especially helpful for children’s books, young adult novels, and textbooks.
    • Contact local principals, librarians, or teachers to ask if they need donations.
  3. Community Centers / YMCA / Local Clubs
    • Often accept books for literacy programs, tutoring, or community libraries.
  4. Hospitals & Nursing Homes
    • They may accept clean, gently used books for waiting rooms or patient use.
  5. Churches / Faith-Based Organizations
    • Great place to donate devotionals, spiritual books, or children’s materials.

Charitable Organizations

  1. Goodwill or Salvation Army
    • Accepts a wide range of books. Proceeds support their employment programs.
  2. Habitat for Humanity ReStores
    • Some locations take books to sell in support of housing projects.
  3. Books for Africa / Books Through Bars / Better World Books
    • Organizations that distribute books to under-served communities locally or globally.
  4. Little Free Library

Online / Specialized Options

  1. Freecycle.org / Buy Nothing Groups (Facebook)
    • Offer books locally for free and connect with those who want them.
  2. Local Prison Programs
    • Many prisons accept paperback books only. Check with local chaplains or nonprofits.
  3. Book Drives / Literacy Nonprofits
    • Check with local literacy organizations or Rotary Clubs—they may be running book drives.

Just Stuff …

S T U F F

Stuff. Just stuff. Oh how we accumulate stuff. Meryl Streete in the movie “The Devil Wears Prada“, went on a tirade lecturing fellow actress Anne Hathaway when she snickered that the colors were the same. Naturally they weren’t.

As I reflected, I met a woman who per chance argued that we spend so much time in our lives acquiring ‘stuff’. I smiled.

As life transitions, we even pay for the stuff that we accumulate and don’t have room for. Whether it’s downsizing, relocating elsewhere with less space, we end up storing more and more of our ‘stuff’. Storage spaces make thousands of dollars annually storing our stuff while increasing costs intermittently through the year. We complain, object but still grudgingly pay because our stuff is important to us.

Goodwill, the Salvation Army and other places exist for us to give away our stuff. Our precious stuff. Is there an end in sight? Why not create a journal with ideas on how to really downsize. Then use bags to purge, donate or keep.

What are your thoughts on accumulating things, then paying to store them. Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Travel with Intent

A photographer's view of the world - words and images to inspire your travels and your dreams

Answering daily prompts

In this blog I'm attempting to answer wordpress daily prompts

Poems From Oostburg, Wisconsin

Ellen Grace Olinger

Alex Tafur

Property Maintenance

Poesy Perspectives

embrace the magic

GREENLiGHT

When God Says Go

HEALTH | INSPIRATION

Mind • Body • Life

Amaring random facts and theories

Knowing every thing

My Sister My Friend

Family. Youth. Parenting

Kamileon Photography

Your Focus. Our Lens.