For me, one of those moments happened earlier this month at the Financial Opportunity Center® (FOC) National Convening held right here in Chicago. The theme of the conference was Strength in Community: Together We Rise, and from the very first session, I felt the truth of those words. This convening felt especially meaningful as it marked twenty years of the FOC model, a celebration of growth, learning, and community impact. This theme of growth and renewal has been a thread through much of my work, both in writing and in practice; exploring how purpose evolves through every new season of leadership.

The FOC model has always been about more than financial empowerment. It is about transformation that ripples through families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. For nearly two decades, I have been deeply connected to this work, helping to strengthen and expand the model while witnessing its profound impact on people and communities. Being part of this convening felt like both a celebration and a full-circle moment.

Leading and Learning in Community

My conference duties began with leading a coaching practicum for a group of 24 participants. Coaching is not just something I do; it is a core part of how I live my purpose. Being able to train and guide others in the principles of coaching, especially in the context of supervision and leadership, always reminds me of why I began this work in the first place. It also reminded me of the many conversations I have shared here about how leadership and personal growth begin with listening both to ourselves and to others. Training others in coaching also reminds me how powerful it is to pause, listen, and help people unlock their own insight. Coaching is not simply about asking powerful questions or setting goals. It is about creating space for people to hear themselves, recognize their strengths, and reconnect to their own wisdom and capacity for growth.

I had the honor of participating in the opening plenary, Celebrating our Legacy, Charting our Future: Two Decades of Opportunity and Community Transformation. Sitting alongside other distinguished panelists, we reflected on the history of the FOC model, shared pivotal moments, and lifted up the stories of transformation that remind us why this work matters. We spoke about the evolution of the model and the lessons learned along the way. What struck me most was how consistently individual empowerment has created community impact. When one person builds financial stability, it strengthens families. When families stabilize, entire communities thrive.

A Moment I Will Never Forget

At the end of our portion of the panel, something unexpected happened. The CEO of one of our longtime community partners, Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC), who was also on the plenary with me, paused to thank me for my years of work with the model and the support I have provided along the way. To my complete surprise, the room rose to a standing ovation. Then, as if that was not enough, I was presented with a welded plaque that one of JARC’s instructors had created. The beauty of it, the weight of it, and the symbolism behind it left me completely overwhelmed. In that moment, I could not hold back the tears.

I am not often caught off guard in professional settings, but this recognition touched me deeply. It was not just about the plaque. It was about being seen and having my contributions acknowledged by people I admire and respect. It was about the reminder that the seeds we plant quietly, year after year, do take root, and sometimes they bloom in ways we could never imagine.

Another highlight of the convening was the keynote address by Mia Birdsong. She spoke powerfully about the connections that sustain us and the truth that our communities will show up for us when we need them most. Her words resonated deeply as I reflected on the spirit of this 20-year celebration. Purpose may be what drives us forward, but community is what carries us when we need reminding of why we started. The convening’s theme, Together We Rise, came alive in that moment and throughout the week, reminding me that while individual effort matters, it is the collective strength of community that makes transformation possible.

Legacy, Leadership, and Gratitude

I sometimes get asked how I have stayed at LISC for so long. For those who do not know, it has been 18 years, and I have many reasons. But in my top five are my colleagues and our partners. The images above and below this section reflect some of them. They represent people who have not only shared this journey with me but have shaped it. These relationships and shared milestones bring to mind what I expressed in From Pen to Purpose: A Year of Personal Growth Through Blogging, about how reflection helps us honor where we have been and embrace what lies ahead. Also in my top five is the impact itself, the real, tangible change that this work creates. The 20-year anniversary of the FOC model reflects that impact. It is a celebration of what happens when people, organizations, and communities commit to working together over time to create opportunity. Although I have passed the torch of leading the local FOC network to my very capable colleague, Sarai Garza, I am grateful to continue learning from her and to remain connected to the work. Watching her leadership and the new energy she brings to this space has been both inspiring and affirming. Leadership is not about holding on. It is about building capacity, mentoring others and creating space for new voices to shine.

Learning from Leadership

When I reflect on my own professional growth, I am reminded of the supervisors I have had during my time at LISC. Each one has taught me something invaluable about strategy, leadership, and big-picture thinking, and about the value of relationships that strengthen both people and purpose. I am deeply grateful for the leadership and guidance of Ricki Lowitz, Kevin Jordan, Susana Vasquez, Seung Kim and Meghan Harte, whose support and insight have shaped my journey in meaningful ways. Their mentorship has shaped not only my professional path but also how I show up as a coach, leader, and colleague. I have learned that leadership is both learned and shared, and that we grow by both guiding and being guided.

Honoring Legacy and Looking Ahead

The closing plenary of the convening honored the partners who have helped build and strengthen the FOC network over the years, recognizing partners who have left a lasting legacy, catalyzed change, innovated on the model, mentored others, and led the way for the FOC network. It was an opportunity to pause, celebrate, and honor the many people and organizations that have helped shape the last twenty years of impact. I was especially proud to recognize JARC for their lasting legacy and unwavering commitment to this work. Their leadership and innovation have made a real difference for the communities they serve.

Looking ahead, I am both reflective and hopeful. This convening reminded me that sustaining impact requires both continuity and renewal, honoring what has been built while making space for what is emerging. The legacy of the FOC model is not only about the past 20 years. It is also about the next 20, and how we continue to rise together through purpose, partnership, and possibility.

A Personal Note of Gratitude

I will carry the memory of that standing ovation and plaque with me for a long time. Not as a trophy, but as a reminder. A reminder that purpose is not something we live out alone. It is something that grows within us and through us, and then takes root in the lives of others. It is something that flourishes when it is held in community. For me, this convening was more than a professional milestone. It was a deeply personal reminder of why I launched Mission ENSPIRE in the first place: to create space for women, nonprofits, and faith leaders to rediscover purpose, overcome doubt, and walk fully in their potential.

Closing Reflection

As I look back on my journey, the experiences, the people, and the milestones, I am reminded that purpose is not static. It grows through connection, collaboration, and commitment. I am proud of the role I have played, grateful for those who have walked alongside me, and excited to see how this work continues to evolve in the years ahead. Because in the end, that is what true strength in community looks like. It is the ability to honor where we have been, celebrate who we have become, and keep building toward what is possible together.

As you reflect on your own journey, what moments have reminded you of your purpose? Who has helped you rise along the way?

If this reflection resonated with you, you may also enjoy Chapter 48: Embracing Growth, Gratitude, and New Possibilities, where I share lessons from another season of renewal and gratitude.

Gratitude and Psychology: Unlocking the Science of Happiness

Three decades ago, Martin Seligman and his colleagues launched the groundbreaking field of “Positive Psychology,” a revolutionary concept that shifted the focus of psychological research from studying mental illness and negative emotions to exploring the transformative power of positive human experiences. This paradigm shift paved the way for the scientific investigation of emotions such as gratitude, optimism, forgiveness, happiness, compassion, and altruism – previously overlooked aspects of the human psyche.

What we have learned through this research is profound: cultivating positive personal attributes fortifies us during times of adversity and emotional turmoil, ultimately leading to greater happiness, resilience, and overall well-being. And among all the attributes one can develop, gratitude stands out as the most strongly associated with robust mental health. Gratitude is our ability to feel and express thankfulness and appreciation for the blessings, both large and small, that grace our lives. Historically, the study of this emotion was primarily confined to the realms of theology and philosophy. However, in the early 2000s, pioneering psychologist Robert Emmons began exploring gratitude through a scientific lens, paving the way for a deeper understanding of its psychological impact.

Emmons’ groundbreaking research revealed that expressing gratitude has profoundly positive effects on mental, physical, and relational well-being. Individuals who regularly practice gratitude tend to experience higher levels of happiness, life satisfaction, and overall positive emotions. Moreover, the benefits of gratitude extend far beyond the emotional realm – research has shown that grateful individuals exhibit better sleep quality, lower levels of inflammation, and a reduced risk of developing various chronic health conditions. But the transformative power of gratitude doesn’t stop there. Studies have also demonstrated that cultivating an attitude of gratitude can enhance interpersonal relationships, foster stronger social connections, and even improve academic and professional performance. By shifting our focus toward the positive aspects of our lives, we create a ripple effect that radiates outward, impacting not only our own well-being but also the lives of those around us.

One of the most remarkable aspects of gratitude is its ability to reshape our perspective and rewire our brains for positivity. Through the practice of consciously acknowledging and appreciating the good in our lives, we train our minds to seek out and savor the positive experiences that might otherwise go unnoticed. This cognitive shift can have a profound impact on our overall outlook, helping us to navigate challenges with greater resilience and find joy in even the most mundane moments.

Unlock Joy and Vitality Through the Power of Gratitude

Cultivating a daily gratitude practice is a simple yet profoundly transformative habit that can uplift your mental and physical well-being. Here are some easy-to-implement tips to help you harness the healing power of gratitude:

• Embrace Self-Love: Begin each day by acknowledging and appreciating five wonderful qualities about yourself. It may feel awkward initially, but with time, this self-affirmation exercise will become second nature and boost your self-esteem.
• Gratitude Journaling: You don’t need an elaborate diary to start journaling. Grab a notebook, your daily planner, or even a stack of sticky notes, and jot down a few things you’re grateful for each day. This simple act can help you focus on the positive aspects of your life. A great resource for this is my Gratitude Devotional Journal.
• Express Your Appreciation: Think of someone who has positively impacted your life – a mentor, friend, or loved one. Take the time to visit them or reach out and express your heartfelt gratitude for their influence and support. A sincere “thank you” can strengthen bonds and spread joy.
• Find a Gratitude Companion: Sharing your gratitude practice with someone can make it even more meaningful. Find a partner – your spouse, child, or friend – and set aside a few moments a few times a week to exchange the blessings you’re grateful for. This shared experience can deepen your connections and amplify the positive effects of gratitude.

By incorporating these simple yet powerful practices into your daily routine, you’ll cultivate a mindset of abundance, appreciation, and overall well-being. Embrace the transformative power of gratitude and watch as joy and vitality blossom in your life. Also did you know that practicing gratitude has been scientifically proven to improve your physical health? No, seriously! Numerous studies have shown that feeling and expressing gratitude can lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and even reduce the risk of heart disease. It’s like a natural stress-buster and a free pass to better well-being, all rolled into one. 

But enough with the science lesson (for now). Let’s talk about the real magic of gratitude – its ability to shift our perspective and fill us with warmth, even on the grayest of days. You know that feeling when you stumble upon an unexpected act of kindness, or when you catch a breathtaking sunset on your daily commute? That’s gratitude working its special way of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Redefining Self-Care: It’s More Than Face Masks

Moving on to self-care, a concept that’s often misunderstood and, dare I say, a tad underrated in our hustle-obsessed culture. Now, I get it – the term “self-care” might conjure up images of luxurious spa days and indulgent pampering sessions. And while those things are lovely (and totally valid forms of self-care), true self-care goes much deeper than that. At its core, self-care is about nurturing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being in a way that honors your unique needs and boundaries. It’s about checking in with yourself regularly, identifying areas of stress or depletion, and actively taking steps to replenish your reserves.

And here’s a fun little nugget for you: Did you know that the concept of “self-care” didn’t even enter the mainstream lexicon until the 1970s? That’s right, folks – we’ve only been collectively acknowledging the importance of tending to our own needs for a mere half-century or so. Talk about a long-overdue wake-up call!

Here are few ways to care for oneself:

• Setting firm boundaries around your time and energy commitments.
• Learning to say “no” to obligations that don’t align with your values.
• Carving out moments of solitude to disconnect from external noise and reconnect with yourself.
• Embracing nourishing rituals like journaling, meditation, or daily movement practices.
• Seeking support from a therapist or trusted friend during challenging seasons of life.
• Engaging in hobbies or creative pursuits that bring you joy and fulfillment.
• Prioritizing adequate sleep, nutrition, and hydration.
• Spending time in nature or engaging in outdoor activities.
• Setting aside time for reflection, introspection, and goal-setting.

In many ways, the rise of the self-care movement is a powerful reclamation of our inherent worth and a defiant stance against the toxic grind culture that so often prioritizes productivity over personhood. By making self-care a non-negotiable priority, we’re sending a message that our well-being matters, that our cup must be filled before we can pour into others.

As we journey through life, constantly striving for our goals and dreams, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the relentless hustle. We push ourselves to the brink, chasing after accomplishments and accolades, often at the expense of our own well-being. But what if the secret to true fulfillment lies not in the destination, but in the way we navigate the path itself? Gratitude and self-care are the twin compasses that can guide us towards a life of balance, joy, and deep contentment. By cultivating a practice of gratitude, we learn to savor the beauty that surrounds us, even amidst the chaos. We train our minds to seek out the positive, to find wonder in the mundane, and to appreciate the incredible gift of simply being alive.

Have you ever wondered in what small yet meaningful ways can you begin weaving the practices of gratitude and self-care into the fabric of your daily life today? Perhaps the first step is to start noticing – noticing the little joys, the helping hands, and the quiet moments that make life richer. Let’s catch up next week as we close out this month with a topic that I am very fond of – community. 

Looking back on this past year with the Flourishing Fiercely blog, it’s like witnessing a beautiful transformation. It’s been a journey of shared growth, learning, and community-building that unfolded in ways I couldn’t have predicted. Remember that first post I hit “publish” on, back on National “I am in Control” Day? My mission was crystal clear: to empower you, my readers, to embrace your full potential and live your authentic self. Yet, what I hadn’t anticipated was the profound transformation this experience would start within me too.

The Goal-Setting & Mindset Game changer

Over the past year, we’ve dived deep into all areas of personal and professional growth, drawing on my experience as a coach. But one theme has consistently stood out: the transformative power of intentional goal-setting. I’ve always known the importance of setting clear objectives and creating action plans in my coaching practice. However, this year, I took things a step further. I set specific goals for this blog using tools like the 90 Day Business Goal Journal. This experience truly solidified my belief in the power of intentional goal-setting.

There’s something incredibly motivating about taking your ideas and turning them into concrete, achievable targets. It gives them a sense of weight and purpose, and it pushes you to commit to making them happen. Of course, setting goals is just the first step. The true test lies in taking action and persevering through the inevitable challenges and setbacks that arise on the path to achievement. This is where cultivating a positive mindset becomes crucial. Resources like the Embracing a Positive Mindset Workbook proved invaluable for me. It equipped me with the tools to build mental fortitude, unwavering self-belief, and a solutions-oriented perspective. This shift in mindset allowed me to see obstacles not as roadblocks, but as opportunities to learn, adapt, and ultimately grow.

Learning from You

When it comes to invaluable lessons, I have to give credit where credit is due – to you, my incredible readers. Your impassioned insights, thought-provoking comments, and beautifully vulnerable personal stories have truly enriched our discussions. And I have to say, it’s been an absolute pleasure to learn and grow alongside you. Throughout our dialogue, your reflections have struck a chord with me. I’ve seen glimpses of my own struggles reflected in your candid thoughts – the self-doubt, the fear of failure, and that constant battle between where we are and where we want to be. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone in these challenges.

But it’s not just the struggles that resonate with me. Your stories of triumph over adversity have been truly inspiring. They’ve served as powerful reminders of the strength and resilience that resides within each of us. And let me tell you, they’ve given me all the motivation I need to keep pushing forward.

So, as we continue on this journey together, let’s remember the common threads that bind us. Let’s keep sharing our experiences, our triumphs, and even our setbacks. Because through it all, we’ll find the support, inspiration, and encouragement we need to persevere. Thank you for being a part of this incredible community. I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together.

The Heartbeat of a Community

It’s this extraordinary community of connection and shared humanity that has become one of the greatest gifts of this entire journey. Knowing that my words have resonated with even one person, empowered them to take action, or offered a moment of solace fills me with immense gratitude. It’s a powerful reminder that our experiences, although unique, often echo universal themes.

Your vulnerability in opening your hearts to me has been deeply humbling. It’s a testament to the power of this community and a beautiful expression of our shared need for authentic understanding. Your stories have enriched my perspective and fueled my passion to keep creating content that resonates and uplifts.

As I revisited our past series – from deconstructing the intricacies of goal-setting and recalibrating our lives, to plumbing the nuanced territories of self-awareness and cultivating positive influence, to exploring paradigm-shifting concepts like discipline, gratitude, and a growth mindset – I was struck by just how multifaceted and nonlinear the road to personal growth can be. My own development has been an ever-evolving confluence of hard-won lessons, ingrained habits, and mindsets, and a continual practice of remaining open to expansive new perspectives.

The Beauty of Reinvention

One series that captured this beautifully was our summer exploration of reinvention and self-care. These posts were poignant reminders that we all possess an incredible capacity for rejuvenation and course-correction, simply by intentionally pausing, taking stock of our realities, and realigning our trajectories through bold new beginnings or subtle recalibrations. They also spotlighted the indispensable role that prioritizing holistic self-care plays in sustaining our vitality, spark, and resilience for the longest of journeys.

The natural unfolding into fall brought themes of self-improvement, disciplined habit formation, and the transformative power of lifelong learning. We delved into strategies for thoughtfully reflecting on our strengths, establishing fortifying routines, and adopting both an abundance mindset and a voracious intellectual curiosity. These conversations paved the way to an appreciation for radical self-acceptance, looking inward to identify our authentic motivations, and the exponential potential of incremental daily actions – lessons that will undoubtedly serve us well as we charge forward into 2024.

The Best is Yet to Come…

In the year to come, I’m thrilled to be guiding our exploration towards cultivating the mindsets, strategies, and support structures that will allow us to approach our loftiest goals with confidence, purpose, and sustainability.  We’ll be delving into topics like purposefully garnering uplifting sources of encouragement, rooting ourselves in self-acceptance, and harnessing the remarkable power of incremental “micro-habits” to spark seismic shifts. Because as my own experiences have shown, metamorphosis is a richly nonlinear, cumulative process – an ever-unfolding journey of committed self-work, radical self-compassion, and courageous expansiveness. 

This blog has become a journey we share together. It’s a mix of inspiring stories, personal growth experiences, and hard-earned wisdom. You’ve all contributed to this tapestry by sharing your own struggles, triumphs, and incredible acts of courage. As I move into my second year of blogging, I want to thank you for being so involved, open, and believing in our journey of growth. You’re the heart of this blog! I truly hope the Flourishing Fiercely community remains a source of motivation, support, and personal transformation for all of us.

This month, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the reflections and lessons I’ve gained from my first incredible year of blogging. We’ll explore the transformative power of gratitude and self-care, unpack the key insights I’ve learned about effective goal-setting, and celebrate the vital role that our thriving community has played in fueling my own personal and professional growth. I’m excited to share these stories of transformation with you – the triumphs, the challenges, and everything in between. Because at the end of the day, this journey belongs to all of us. Together, we’re uncovering the path to becoming our fullest, most flourishing selves. So, get ready for an April filled with inspiration, vulnerability, and a healthy dose of celebration. I can’t wait to see how each of you continues to thrive in the year ahead!