In the last 9 months, I have had the honor of connecting with almost 500 women speaking at a number of leadership conferences and in one-on-one conversations.

Each time my heart fills with admiration and sadness by the countless stories of their drive, commitment, generosity, and achievement that also came at the price of sacrifice, exhaustion, and disconnection with joy and ultimately themselves. 

From the outside, many of these high-performing, successful business leaders have it all put together.  But deep down each shared a yearning for something more that seems to elude them.  Some call it balance while others craved lasting fulfillment, joy, and deeper purpose.

Fully dedicated to their work, family, and friends, many find themselves exhausted, overwhelmed, overcommitted and burned out.  They seem to always be last on their own list and often feel guilty for taking time off for themselves.  

Even though they have success financially and in their career, they can’t seem to find the pause button in their life so they can catch their breath and experience more than a fleeting moment of joy and relief.

I’ve noticed an underlying fear among these “overworked givers” that if for a moment, they let up, all the things they are holding together will fall apart and they will crumble under the weight of all that responsibility.  

Even though they know they need and crave self-care time, they can’t imagine the possibility of adding one more thing to their overflowing plate of to-dos.

Some have looked into the mirror with tears streaming wondering “How did I get here?  I’ve worked so hard. I’ve cared so much.”

I’ve also met quite a few incredible women who are navigating a major transition in their lives…divorce, career change, kids leaving the house, or reaching a milestone birthday (35, 40, 45, 50).  

Each share their version of “Who am I? What now? What do I want next in my life that is meaningful and FOR ME?”

After years and even decades of putting their happiness, dreams, and passions in a box on the top shelf, they are now dusting off this box and rediscovering that special part of themselves that has always been there, but hidden and long forgotten.  When asked about joy, they often reply, “I don’t even know what brings me joy these days?”

Having personally felt this pain and longing for more, I was compelled to create this “Joyful Living Project.”

Happiness doesn’t have to be elusive, and exhaustion doesn’t have to be a part of work and “success.” 

Imagine the profound impact you make when your body feels energized and your heart is filled with confidence, connection, clarity, inspiration, and love.

Based on what I’ve learned, I feel called to serve those who give so much of themselves, those leaders who are “overworked givers.”  

I am called to inspire possibilities and guide these change-makers to their own path of joy, connection, and freedom.