For the second year in a row the ‘Peek’ team ran a workshop after the Holistic Centers Gathering in support of emerging centers and people in various stages of creating and developing their vision. Alison, a participant in the April 2014 Peek workshop, shares her experience reflecting on how she found the workshop both helpful and supportive.
Fear is a powerful emotion that can suffocate any business idea. I created everything in a vacuum, which led to a sense of isolation, yet the solution to form connections with people and build on the ideas required stepping out of my comfort zone. At my last networking event I hid in the washroom, but this time I was determined not to make friends with the toilet but with real people. In April 2014, I challenged myself to show up on Gabriola Island and live my mission at The Haven; I had to be visible and find my voice (literally raising the volume) in order to effectively help others do the same.
For the first time, I presented my business plan and core message in a public setting and I’m grateful to the organizers for providing the opportunity and feedback to all the participants. The outpouring of support from the entire group was unexpected. Taking the risk led to further dialogue and ideas, access to helpful books and names and events, potential key partners, ongoing mentorship, and a personal commitment to self-development when I returned home.
Was the risk of vulnerability and the initial discomfort worth it? Absolutely. I thought about who I was doing this for and ultimately, it wasn’t for me but for the people I want to serve. At The Haven I was the recipient of goodwill, honesty, wisdom, and nurture from facilitators, who wholeheartedly took us under their wings for our benefit – the positive impact on my confidence, of finding my tribe, and creating a catalyst to reach out was enormous.
In keeping with the spirit of exploration and transformation at The Haven, I became an “introverted powerhouse” and experienced the magic in being bold, which later inspired me to buy a pair of red shoes in Vancouver. Most importantly, I discovered why I must push beyond my fears and take risks: so that I can empower others. I now have the courage to proclaim my mission, which is, supporting women to be seen, to be heard, to be touched, and to be understood.
Peter Moore, Business Director at Breitenbush Hot Springs Retreat and Conference Center and co-facilitator of the Peek Behind the Scenes workshop, said, “The world needs you to be successful, not for yourself, but for the work that you are doing in the world, for the women you are in service to.” This is just the encouragement I need!
Participant in the 2014 ‘Peek’ Workshop at The Haven
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