Yesterday, I learned that a woman who shared a creative way to help me grieve less and reach for more died a few days ago. The last time we saw each other was at a large International Women’s Day event in March 2020 – just days before the world shut down.
I didn’t know Martha well but she left a lasting impression and helped to change my perspective about life and work. Many years ago, I applied for a job at the organization she led with commitment, determination, enthusiasm and compassion. I knew I’d learn all the right things from her. I didn’t get the job and while I was grieving the lost opportunity, Martha made sure I didn’t let my grief hold me back.
We grieve lost opportunities like we grieve any other loss
Martha called to tell me personally that she’d gone with another candidate. She expressed empathy when she heard the disappointment in my voice. She highlighted my strengths and encouraged me to apply to other organizations where she vouched for their leadership. And then she did something I’ll never forget.
Grieve less and reach for more
Martha recommended I establish my own Board of Directors – a group of caring, connected people who would support my success. She even offered to be the Chair of my Board! What a caring and creative way to inspire a fellow woman to keep reaching for her dreams and goals while grieving a lost opportunity.
While I didn’t follow through on Martha’s suggestion in a formal way, I have surrounded myself with smart, talented women who prop me up, take joy in my successes, tell it to me straight when I need an attitude adjustment and so much more. I make it a priority to do the same for them.
As I take a giant leap of faith in my first entrepreneurial venture, The Loss Art, I take inspiration from Martha’s faith in me. I’m working hard to become successful – by my definition – and I’m also allowing space for the universe to work through me.
I recognize it also takes a leap of faith to enter into a relationship with a coach. Let’s start by getting to know each other. Please share a comment below about how you have inspired by or inspired other women to keep reaching for dreams and goals, even in the face of grief. And learn more about me by watching videos I recorded just for you.
On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate women who live or lived a life worth remembering. In other words, I celebrate every woman!