Who knew that at an email marketing seminar for real estate agents one would find an alchemist , shaman and coach ? Kelle Sparta, @kellesparta.com presented recently at Constant Contact headquarters in Waltham, MA. She is a dynamic, full of life personality who made up her mind to gain control of her personal power and she shares her wealth by helping others find ‘grace under fire.’ She pays it forward every day.
She had me at hello! In a few words, when you are pointing a finger look at your thumb; know your buttons so when they are pressed you control your reactions. This resonates with me, as I feel my buttons are frayed. Is it a result of recovering from a physical injury, no exercise? Is it more?
Listening intently, I came away with some pearls to ponder and practice. Sharing them here in hopes it helps others. My goal is to be more conscious of the idea of ‘personal power’ and the positive energy that flows from gaining a perspective that the universe is healing and loving.
Some of the Elements of Personal Power:
What are the challenges of owning your personal power? Symptoms to watch for:
What prevents us from protecting our own personal power? Dr. John Gottman's work describes the four horsemen of the apocalypse for a relationship. They are defensiveness, criticism, stonewalling and contempt. When we lack trust or do not allow others to make decisions, when we constantly strive for perfection, vacillate with feelings of depression; ultimately we suffer a lack of self-love and self-esteem. We are too hard on ourselves and consequently on others. The goal is to practice self-awareness and self-control.
We can’t control what others say and do, but we can control how we react to it and them. The next time someone tries to entice me into a discussion, negotiation, conversation which begins making me feel uncomfortable, rather than thinking about a response, I will listen to my feelings, be present in the moment, take responsibility for my actions, and respect the now. Most importantly, I will trust in the universe for a brighter tomorrow.