I want to commend you on the remarkable workshop titled “Giving It Away”, part of the WOMEN 2000 coaching series. You had the unique ability to precisely identify common stumbling blocks that often inhibit women from realizing their true potential.

As a professional social worker, teacher, mother, etc., I feel qualified to judge the worth of your workshop, because I have spent a lifetime being the nurturer, the teacher, the one who inspires, picks up the pieces, mends broken hearts and “fixes” everything.

The reason this had such a dynamic impact on me was because you clearly stated that this was only part of the picture. You made certain that when we left that we had fully realized that the other half of the coin was that we not only deserved to be honored, but that if we were courageous enough to want to realize our full potential, that this was an obligation, not a choice.

You were inspiring in a very personal way. You spoke about real issues and the way you responded to the women there was comforting and a great inspiration. It was wonderful and unusual to be addressed with such respect. Addressing the social stereotypes and cultural norms that women deal with was important, because it gave us hope. The unique roles that women play all their lives you pointed out, does not have to be a deterrent to success, but a strength.

Beyond that you adeptly pointed out the practical steps like setting goals, managing time, valuing your professional time, having a strong support system, networking and the importance of having a mentor or coach. You reiterated how important it was not to minimize our accomplishments and to take definite steps to go for the gold. It was vitally important that you emphasized that our self-talk must change for the better, that we needed to change our thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Having taught at a college at a graduate level, I know my female students could have benefited from this workshop. I think you should teach this as a one-semester course in college. So many women have the experience and/or the education, but do not go the extra mile because they feel unappreciated or under-valued. You gave us in a few hours the recognition and the validation that was sorely lacking in many cases. It feels so good to be appreciated and to have someone honor all of our accomplishment, no matter how small.

When I left the workshop, I felt empowered to go ahead and really fulfill my dreams, because someone had given me permission. How amazing that in a few short hours one could resurrect one’s dreams and dare to go forward. 

You have a spectacular gift and I will have no reservations recommending you and your coaching skills to many of my talented, but reluctant female friends. The wisdom and insights you shared were priceless. I shall not forget it.

You MUST find a way to get your message out to a wider audience. The gems you gave us MUST be made available to women at large. It is absolutely crucial that women realize the tremendous gifts they bring to the table and you made this quite apparent. It was such a relief and so very inspiring. I will tell ALL my female friends about what you do. It is truly remarkable!

In gratitude,