The Only Constant Is Change..
I was at my desk trying to keep up with the pace of the busy influx of patients, looking up at the clock, wondering how we were only a couple of hours into the shift, and realizing I had so much longer to go. We had implemented a new check-in system for the patients, and needless to say, patients, staff, and everyone impacted by the change was extremely frustrated by the lag in the process. Mainly due to the learning curve of implementing a new system. I remember expressing my frustrations and concerns and asking various questions about why the change was even necessary to my manager at the time. He looked at me and said, "when change is implemented, it's hard to see the positive impact on our future. We only focus on the frustration and difficulty. But one thing that has always helped me is understanding that in life, the one constant is change, and the more we can embrace it, the more positive our experience is through that change."
I didn't want to admit it, but he was right. I was caught up in the emotions of frustration, wanting to go back to how things used to be, not acknowledging that this change could positively impact the future of patients and staff--and it did.
This experience helped shape the way I would look at change forever. A few years later, I would be in a position to implement a whole new care coordination plan, changing just about everything for everyone in the program and patient process. I was now encouraging my staff through the frustrations of enormous change that what was uncomfortable now would soon be an unparalleled system that we all appreciated immensely. Change didn't stop there for me; shortly after that, I would find myself changing career paths, becoming a stay-at-home mom, and entering a whole new world. So you see, the one constant is change.
Likewise, when I started my writing journey, my goal was simply to publish my book and to have the opportunity to share encouragement with other women. After publishing my book, I sat down with some friends that asked me, "what next, Vanessa?" And I said to them, I feel like my purpose is more than just writing. Yes, I want to write more, but I also want to curate opportunities for women to gather, build community, refuel, reimagine their purpose, and feel empowered. I didn't know exactly what that would look like then, but I started to draft up ideas for workshops, conferences, and retreats. It was then that I began to plant the seeds of my future endeavors and have been watering those seeds ever since. They say,
"If opportunity doesn't knock build a door."
It's been 4 years since I released "The Rib," and this journey has been beautiful. It has taught me so many things about my purpose, and ultimately it has taught me so much about self-belief. And although it has carried me to this point, I realized that I was growing, and the way I wanted to have an impact was expanding, and so would my umbrella. Therefore, I felt led to change The Rib to:
Soulfully Spoken
Soulfully Spoken can also be thought of like this, (SO)ul(FULL). My goal for this organization is to create spaces for women to gather, be fueled through soulful experiences, and leave with their cups "so full." Through vulnerable dialogue, women can grow, feel purposeful, powerful, inspired, and empowered – but most importantly, will be filled and fueled to continue to pursue their purpose(s). Soulfully Spoken will have opportunities to participate in small groups, various events, and future retreats. I am excited to announce that our first event will be held this July in SLC. Please save the date.
It was vital for me to bring Unleashed to Utah first because it is home, and I recognize the need for more women's empowerment gatherings within the community. Unleashed is an intentional movement created to build strong connections through diversity, inclusivity, and equity within the community. We are curating programming and experiences to uplift one another and grow into a deeper understanding of ourselves on a mind, body, and soul level. The facilitators that will be joining us are powerful women, and they are going to help create an unforgettable experience.
I promise you are not going to want to miss this! Be sure to check the website for more information and ways in which you can support.
Pre-sale will begin May 8th
Lastly, (I have kept you here long enough), I want to express my gratitude. Whether you have been a part of this community since the beginning or are new here, thank you. Your support means so very much to me, and I am so excited about the opportunity to give back to all of you by creating new opportunities for you to participate in and grow.
I challenge you to consider how change, even when scary, has been the catapult to your growth! Embrace your change; it's beautiful. See you in July!
With love,
Vanessa