A mountain bike ride on unfamiliar terrain made my legs burn, my breathing strain, and my frustration flare. That wild path also led me to a valuable life lesson about mindset, focus and moving forward.

Like many people, at times I’ve found it challenging to accept my body. I’ve realized that self-acceptance feels way better than any particular weight or size; it nourishes your soul and never wears thin.

Even a life coach (like me!) can be “hijacked” by fear and triggered to lash out. The good news is that we can also learn to recognize “the signs” and regain our composure.

Experiencing a new, really challenging situation can be scary but also exhilarating! My “accidental” run down a double-diamond (read: EXPERT LEVEL) ski slope became a real gem for my confidence.

It took physical pain and then acupuncture treatment to teach me that opening my heart – allowing myself to fully feel my emotions – could be the source of my healing.

Attempting challenging yoga poses reminds me it’s important to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. When things aren’t easy, trust that the universe is stretching you for your own good!

When a precious jewelry redesign went awry, I began to understand that imperfect is not “less than.” We all have our flaws, and they don’t have to detract from our beauty, our value, or what we deserve.

I was absolutely stunned when my trainer told me I’m a complainer! Sometimes we need a jolt of self-awareness to kick-start new behaviors. For me now, it’s “no pain, no gain – and no complain!”