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Children Come First

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Children Come First

Guest Post by Dr. Traci Elizabeth Teasley

 

 

Children come first. 

 

I have had the good fortune of working in several large school districts, and I wish I had a dime for every time I heard this mantra. I could supplement the budget shortfalls of quite a few school districts with the proceeds.

 

 Children come first. Do they really?

 

 I do not recall, and I have a pretty fierce memory, having explicit conversations about children coming first in any of the school districts where I used to work.  What actually would “children come first” look like?   How would we administrators know we were putting them first?  What criteria would we use?

 

We, meaning those of us entrusted with the lives of children (that would be you!), have to be explicit about what it is we want for our children, naturally and spiritually.  It doesn’t just happen.   This is why God in His infinite wisdom led Solomon to write the word “train” in Proverbs:

 

Proverbs 22:6 KJV

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart

from it.

 

To train is to teach, to guide, and to prepare.  It is our responsibility to do whatever we can to prepare children to be who God originally created them to be.  So, how do we do that?

 

In addition to ensuring that our children can read, write, think and speak intelligently, we must spend just as much time, if not more, in developing their skills for walking purposefully with the Lord.  All children need to know how to:

 

  • Read and understand the Bible.
  • Apply scriptures to daily living.
  • Communicate with God through prayer.
  • Put God first in decision-making.
  • Love and serve others.

 

Each of these foundational skills will give our children what they need to seek God’s face for their purpose, now and later.  My parents put just as much energy in my natural and spiritual growth, and I have been richly blessed naturally, from Head Start to Harvard, and spiritually, as a vessel sanctified and meet for God’s use, because of their instruction!

 

Children learn what we teach them.  So, what have you taught our children lately? 

 

Dr. Traci Teasley

Dr. Traci is a disciple of the Mt. Gilead Full Gospel International Ministries in Richmond, Virginia. As a servant of the Lord for over three decades, Dr. Traci has faithfully served in various leadership capacities in the local church, such as: Sunday School Teacher, Worship Leader, Choir Directress, Gospel-Cise Aerobics Ministry Team Member, Economic Empowerment Team Assistant Overseer, and Christmas Production Actress. Dr. Traci has dedicated her life to developing her spirit, soul, and body and relishes the opportunity to encourage others to do the same!

 

To further advance His Kingdom, God has blessed her to earn degrees from Duke University (Durham, North Carolina), North Carolina State University (Raleigh, North Carolina), and the Harvard Graduate School of Education (Cambridge, Massachusetts). Dr. Traci is a fierce advocate for children and youth who are neglected and underserved and has worked in senior-level positions in various urban school districts.

 

Dr. Traci is forever committed to spreading the joy and love of the gospel of Jesus Christ, training believers to lead an intelligently spirit-led life, fulfilling God’s mandate in Ephesians 4:12-13 (NRSV) “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God.”

 

☼ Join us as she shares how to inspire children from “Head Start to Harvard” Wednesday, September 18th at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time viahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/purposeful-pathway-radio/2013/09/18/dr-traci-teasley-headstart-to-harvard
☼ Enjoy all episodes by subscribing to the #PurposefulPathwayRadioshow episodes on iTunes via https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/purposeful-pathway-radio-blog/id648359451?mt=2

 

☼ As always, if you cannot join live you can enjoy the archive: www.PurposefulPathwayRadio.com

 

Purposeful Pathway Radio is the haven for faith-based entrepreneurs. It is a journey in which faith and business gracefully intertwine. The guests on the show share insights for faith-based business; they will also share inspiration from their spiritual journeys. My hope is that, in listening, your businesses will grow and your lives will be enriched. My prayer is that these personal messages will allow God’s peace, love and joy to pave your purposeful pathways!
 
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Sep 17, 2013 By Spiritual Growth, Vocation / Career / Calling Leave a Comment

Biz Tip: Great Unexpectations

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Great Unexpectations

Christian Business Tip Great Unexpectations

Image courtesy suwatpo at www.freedigitalphotos.net

   

Purposeful Pathway is a haven for faith-based entrepreneurs. Part of my mission is equipping faith-based businesses with information that is practical, actionable and Scriptural.

The theme of this post is growing your faith-based business through great unexpectations!

We all know that we reap what we sow. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Galatians 6:7) Sow apple seeds and, with the right climate, sun exposure, moisture, soil pH and fertilization, you will likely bear some apples in due time.

The more we sow seeds, the more we reap fruit…yet sometimes in indirect and greatly unexpected ways!

For example, I recently started to change one of my home-study programs. No one else knew I was in the process of making these changes; yet, while I was in the midst of this process, an unexpected number of people started to ask about my home-study programs. There is no direct correlation, as the changes had not yet been published; but the “energy” of sowing allowed me to reap a reward. As another example, I began to restructure my group coaching program in order to better serve my clients. Once again no one else knew about this undertaking; yet, while in the midst of this, I enrolled more clients than usual into my individual coaching programs. This was certainly an unexpected result. As yet another example, I started to homeschool my children in order to deepen their knowledge and strengthen their faith; this was an “illogical” step to take in my life, as I already had a tremendous amount on my plate being a single mother, sole provider and solo-preneur. Yet God led me to this decision; since I started homeschooling I have enrolled more clients than usual and have found ways to enjoy more free time with my family. These various “great unexpectations” have been eye-opening, heart-warming and business-boosting!

So how can we apply this principal practically in business? How can we grow our businesses with great unexpectations?

  1. Write down at least three activities you have been thinking about doing for some time but, for whatever reason, have not yet implemented. Maybe one activity is hosting a teleseminar? Tweaking your web site? Hiring a virtual assistant? Capture these ideas on paper.
  2. Review the list and document why you have not acted on these ideas. Is it fear of wasting time? Fear of failing? A feeling of being overwhelmed? Uncertainty about how to go forward? Be honest with yourself and write freely.
  3. Choose at least one activity from the list and commit to move forward. Afraid it will be a waste of time? Remember that the learning experience alone can be invaluable. Is failure a strong possibility? See the failure as an indispensible rung on the ladder of success. Overwhelmed? Break the activity into small, time-lined steps. Not sure how to go forward? Commit to research. “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it.” (Luke 14:28)
  4. Once you commit to the activity, do something to hold yourself accountable. Make an announcement to your clients; create a web page for the event; share with your social media following; add the endeavor to your newsletter. When your commitment is “out there” you are much more likely to stay on track. This can be a powerful step particularly for perfectionists. If you prefer something to be “perfect” before releasing, this action step will pull you from the time- and energy-wasting mire of “perfectionizing.”
  5. Move forward and release the results to God. He has led you thus far, and He will grant you the results that are perfect for your path – even if they are not the results you expect! So often we envision a “cause and effect” in our minds. And, yes, there is certainly a cause-and-effect momentum in business and in life. Yet our glorious God often reveals effects that are never expected. Such is the blissful beauty of an unfolding purposeful pathway! Perhaps hosting that teleseminar did not bring about the immediate clients you expected, yet it connected you with a colleague for a joint venture. Perhaps that radio interview did not bring as many web site visitors as you had planned, but it provided an opportunity for a speaking engagement. When we commit our businesses to God, we can surely have great unexpectations!
  6. Log your excellent and unexpected fruit. What unexpected fruit have you received from God due to your activities? What miraculous results came about? Record these in your business journal that they may be remembered!
  7. Celebrate the fragrant fruit given by our Father! “So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” (1 Corinthians 3:7) Reaping unexpected fruit opens our eyes all the more to the fact that our Father alone makes things grow. We can be the most astute of planners, but God’s plan is always sovereign. Celebrate, then, the joy of releasing all to Jesus!

 

 

“But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)

I am excited for you as you grow your business with great unexpectations!

If you need help with this powerful process, I invite you to join me in the Purposeful Pathway Business Academy here. Attract your ideal clients and powerfully boost your business in just 7 weeks! Also: sign up for this group coaching program by September 20th and earn valuable bonuses!

Let’s pray. Glorious Giver of things that are great and unexpected, we delight and rejoice in You! Thank you for providing perfectly for all our needs. May we faithfully sow seeds for Your glory and trust only in You to bear the fruit we need. Help us to remember that, of ourselves, we can do nothing. We love You with all our hearts, minds, strength and souls. It’s in Jesus’ Name that we pray. Amen.

I Treasure Your Thoughts and Comments!

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Sep 16, 2013 By Spiritual Growth, Vocation / Career / Calling 2 Comments

Purposeful Pathway Business Academy

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Purposeful Pathway Business Academy Group Coaching Program by Purposeful Pathway Christian Life Coaching

 

A haven to thrive in both business and life, the Purposeful Pathway Business Academy will launch again September 26, 2013!

 

Enjoy a 7-week transformative journey that includes:

 

    • Powerful preparation by clarifying goals
    • Equipment to reach goals through dedicated research
    • Refinement of goals into smaller steps and daily action steps
    • Creation of customized action plan
    • Cultivation of goal-supporting habits
    • Periodic overview to adjust goals and action steps as necessary
    • Simplification and systematization for maximized results
    • Enlistment of others to gain excellence
    • Client attraction challenge videos and worksheet exercises
    • Defining Target Market
    • Maximization of social media





 

    • Achieving peace through purpose
    • Practicing powerfully the seeking of God’s guidance
    • Business journaling for inspired action and heightened clarity
    • Embracing powerful quiet time routines
    • Leveraging pain points and power points
    • Heightening joy through practical, Scriptural steps
    • Creating positive momentum and effective routines and habits
    • And much more…

 

 

Take the next step to boosting your business by signing up for this program with an investment of $335!

Also, if you sign up before September 20th, 2013, enjoy the BONUSES of

  • Devotional EBook Purposeful Pathway: A Journey with Jesus
  • Easy 3-Pay Option: 3 Installments of $111

I forward to seeing you on the journey…and to powerfully boosting your business in the Purposeful Pathway Business Academy!

Read below for Academy member testimonials.





 


Members of the Academy share:

 

july2011002Ann Musico of 3D Vitality Health Coaching www.threedimensionalvitality.com ~ “I was privileged to participate in the 7-week Heart Centered Business Academy and I can honestly say it has been a time of great insight, productivity and progress for me and my business. As a Biblical health coach I understand the value of accountability, support and encouragement and I received all three. Caroline’s insightful, sensitive and motivating comments and support throughout the 7 weeks was absolutely invaluable. She made everyone feel completely at ease and provided a beautifully structured, yet relaxed and respectful environment in which to explore options and new directions. I especially loved the effortless and natural combining of faith and business. It sets this coaching program head and shoulders above others because it addresses the entire person, not just one aspect. It’s the type of program that would be beneficial to do periodically in order to assess progress and make targeted, constructive course corrections. I wholeheartedly recommend this coaching to anyone who is serious about rising to a higher level in life.”

 

Mike FentonMike Fenton of Heart and Soul Health Coaching www.heartnsoulhealthcoaching.com ~ “I was very impressed with the Academy. The concept of asking people to share their insights and testimonials proved to be very beneficial; which in turn left me many a night reflecting on what had been said. Those reflections not only provided me with new insights and ideas of which I could incorporate into my business but my life as well.”

 

Lisa GrahamLisa Graham of The Lisa Effect www.thelisaeffect.com ~ “I can’t thank you enough for offering the Heart Centered Business Academy. I loved it! The structure, length, organization, ability to share and, of course, the content were all outstanding. Walking though each step with time for reflection and a specific focus were a huge help. It allowed me time to really focus while keeping me motivated! I also really enjoyed how everyone could share their successes, challenges and other insights. It brought out great points for all of us plus gave us extra encouragement when needed. I appreciate your work and commitment to us!! You rock!”

 

Lisa Graham

Darlene Alexander of Pureity Hair Care www.heavenlyessence.com ~ “Incredible!!! Caroline is an awesome coach! The Business Academy has helped me to set reasonable goals and to remain focus on those goals until they are accomplished. If you’re ready to move to the next level in your business, I highly recommend this academy.”

 

Cindy_2799_adj_webCindy Hirch of Sharing Hope www.CindyHirch.com ~ “In the time I have known Caroline she has soared to new heights. It has been incredible to watch her growth. She has an ability to connect and relate to people in a way that transcends language barriers and cultures. Caroline’s poetry is beautiful. She has an incredible gift to write and her work truly inspires the reader in what she shares. In group coaching she offers practical solutions and applications for business. Even if you are not looking to own or grow your own business, these same principles can be applied to your personal life. They are presented and woven with a deep spiritual and Godly approach. She has been blessed with many gifts that allow her to serve others well. Without reservation I would highly recommend Caroline’s services.”

(For a list of testimonials about Caroline Gavin, visit http://reflecthislight.com/testimonials-for-caroline-gavin-christian-life-coach/)




 

A question I receive often about the Academy is whether or not one must have a faith-based business to join. The answer is “no.” Although the Academy was designed with Christian entrepreneurs in mind, our 7-step journey is powerful when applied to life goals. In our last sessions, those who did not have businesses enjoyed and benefited from the Academy just as much as those who did.

 

Why Group Coaching?

1. Affordability: Enjoy the tremendous benefits of coaching at an attractive and affordable price.

2. Community: Enjoy the camaraderie of the group; connect with others who are in the same or similar positions as you. You will discover that the Purposeful Pathway Business Academy is a family.

3. Networking: Benefit from networking with other business owners.

4. Accountability: Appreciate both the high level of accountability and the accompanying high results that stem from working in a group setting.

5. Benefit from Breadth of Knowledge: Marvel the treasure trove of collective wisdom and experiences.

6. Bless Others: Share your own pearls of wisdom and experiences to bless others in their journeys.

7. Comfort: Relax in a comfortable setting; group coaching provides an atmosphere that is less intensive than one-on-one coaching.

8. Increased Joy: Look forward to the growth and to the fun you will experience. Purposeful Pathway Business Academy will not only propel your business but also heighten the joy in your journey.

9. Benefit from a Bible-Based Structure: Embrace God’s blessings by seeking counsel and guidance from many. “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)

So join us in the journey by clicking the link below! Academy sessions meet for seven weeks every Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time (by phone) starting September 26th. In addition to the classes, you will receive targeted business-boosting assignments, worksheets and videos.

 

Travel a pathway that is fun, fruitful and profitable! Join us in the Purposeful Pathway Business Academy!





 

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Sep 12, 2013 By Vocation / Career / Calling Leave a Comment

Purposeful Pathway Radio: Never Say Impossible

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“Never Say Impossible” on Purposeful Pathway Radio

 

Myra Goldick shares her journey on Purposeful Pathway Radio on September 11th at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time! Myra overcame a childhood laced with racial discrimination, poverty and disability during the 50’s in New York City. As a child completely paralyzed by polio, Myra was told she would never walk again and that living with it was her only option. After many struggles, several treatments and surgeries, her thinking became clouded by negative emotions an feelings of self-deprivation and self-pity. After hitting rock bottom, she slowly began to recognize her own self-worth. Myra decided fight for her physical and emotional survival. Rejecting the concept that she had limitations was the first step. Through passion, perseverance, and artistic creativity, and by God’s grace, she rose above adversity and developed a life full of love, family, success, accomplishment and prosperity.


 Myra is now the host of the ‘Never Say Impossible’ radio show and ‘ The Dancing On Our Disabilities’ show. The “Never say impossible” show focuses on healthcare, story-telling, spirituality, and business trends, while offering great entertainment at the same time. She is an author, a speaker,and an professional artist. Her mission is to motivate, inspire, share other people’s successes and engage the audience through thought-provoking communication. One person’s path to success, when shared with others, can become a method of prosperity for all who choose to listen.

Listen as she shares how to never say inpossible via  [Purposeful Pathway Radio] Never Say Impossible or via the media player below!

I welcome you also to enjoy all episodes of Purposeful Pathway Radio for free on iTunes here.

God bless you abundantly and always on your purposeful pathway!

 

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Sep 9, 2013 By Holistic Healing, Spiritual Growth, Vocation / Career / Calling Leave a Comment

Business Tip: Uniquely You

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Uniquely You

Business Tip Uniquely You

Image courtesy foto76 at www.freedigitalphotos.net

Purposeful Pathway is a haven for faith-based entrepreneurs. Part of my mission is equipping faith-based businesses with information that is practical, actionable and Scriptural.

The theme of this post is embracing a business that is uniquely you!

As I went out to eat with friends recently, I was reminded of how vastly eating styles can vary. For example, I am a vegan, and I thrive on raw, whole, plant-based foods. Yet not everyone thrives on that type of diet. We have different body chemistries. A source of optimal nutrition for one person may be a source of extreme food allergy for another. God created us wonderfully unique!

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” (Psalm 139:13-14)

This wonderful uniqueness extends to our businesses. Our businesses, too, have different “chemistries.” What works well for one may not work well for another. It is important to try new things while being acutely aware of how our explorations impact our businesses.

So just how you can increase income and impact by being uniquely you?

Let’s walk through seven practical yet powerful steps.

  1. Write a list of every activity you perform in your business. Yes, this may sound like a tedious task, but the process is very helpful. Examples may be daily social media time, a weekly newsletter, a biweekly post, and client coaching calls. Tally your activities and their corresponding frequencies.
  2. Review this list and asterisk the activities which bear the most fruit. Review your files; assess your data; study your income sources. From where did you obtain the most product sales? From whom did you obtain the most referrals? How did you most efficiently grow your following? Mark the most powerful activities on your list.
  3. Look now at the highest fruit-bearing activities and choose to increase them. What are the top three client-attracting and business-building activities? How can you do more of these more often?
  4. Look at the lowest fruit-bearing activities and choose to decrease them (or, in some cases, remove them altogether). This is a crucial step. There are only so many hours in a day; in order to increase your highest fruit-bearing activities, you will need to make space in your schedule. Even if this action seems illogical or contrary to what you have learned, trust your unique business numbers. For example, if you consistently attract more clients from speaking rather than from social media, choose to increase your speaking time and decrease your social media time…yes, even if your respected colleague experiences otherwise. Remember: we have different body chemistries and different business chemistries!
  5. Carefully monitor the changes. Keep track in your business journal when and how you implemented the changes and what results were borne; in doing so, you will discover which adjustments have been most effective and also which adjustments are still necessary.
  6. Call on the Creator of your chemistry. Pray for guidance in every step of this purposeful process. God is the Creator of your unique chemistry, and He is the ultimate Guide. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)
  7. Rejoice in your remarkable uniqueness! God has fearfully and wonderfully made you. Choose to embrace your uniqueness with frequent moments of contemplation, prayer and celebration!

 

“But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” (Isaiah 64:8)

I am excited for you as you embrace the uniqueness of you and your business!

If you need help with leveraging the “unique you” of your business, I would be happy to assist you. A healthy business involves health all around: body, mind and spirit. Join 3D Vitality Biblical Health Coach Ann Musico and me in a powerful journey for transforming your body, your business and your life here.

Let’s pray. Marvelous Masterpiece-Maker, we delight and rejoice in You! Thank you for making us fearfully, wonderfully and remarkably unique. Thank You for paving purposeful pathways for us that are delightfully different. Help us, Faithful Father, as we travel these paths for Your glory. Allow us to embrace the uniqueness of our businesses and of our lives in order to share Your love and light. We love You with all our hearts, minds, strength and souls. It is in Jesus’ Name that we pray. Amen.

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Sep 8, 2013 By Vocation / Career / Calling Leave a Comment

Business Tip: Triumphant Trails

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Business Tip: Triumphant Trails

Christian Creative Business Tip Mess to Masterpiece

 Image © 2013 Caroline Gavin

 

Purposeful Pathway is a haven for faith-based entrepreneurs. Part of my mission is equipping faith-based businesses with information that is practical, actionable and Scriptural.

The theme of this post is trekking trails with triumph!

Ah, I love this time of year. My children and I have been savoring the summer weather. One way in which we have been summer-savoring is by trekking many a scenic trail. It is both enriching and exhilarating to venture to new places, to breathe deep the fresh air and to soak in the new sights!

Yet trekking beautiful trails does not come without challenges. We most certainly encountered some steep climbs and rocky roads. The breathtaking vistas, nonetheless, were worth all of these.

One trail in particular stands out in my mind as an apt metaphor for business – particularly for the Christian creative business. My children and I recently set out for a trail that wrapped around a tranquil lake. It seemed to be an easy and short trail, and we walked rather casually at the onset. Eventually, after having walked quite some time, we realized that we were not even close to the end of the trail; at points we could no longer see the lake, and we wondered if we were even on the trail any longer. Should we keep going? Or turn around to familiar ground?

Thankfully we trekked on. Eventually we saw the lake again…and traveled to even prettier parts of the trail…and, yes, made it victoriously to the end.

Isn’t this circling trail much like our creative businesses? We begin our businesses with an excitement, yet we often begin without realization of the immense commitment. After some time it can seem we are not making much progress or that we will never make it all. In our minds we hear, “Am I even on the right path? Should I turn around altogether?” During these times it is all the more important to heed God’s voice, to cling to His hand, and to keep on trekking.

Below are seven practical yet powerful steps for trekking the business trail with triumph:

  1. Embrace the challenge. Realize that running a business is not a casual stroll. Running a business is a hike, and it can be strenuous at times. But the vistas are beyond beautiful and richly rewarding.
  2. Study the map and be prepared. Just as one would bring food, water, a map and sturdy walking shoes on a trail, so too one needs to prepare with crystal clear goals and a business plan.
  3. Purposefully pause to appreciate the vistas. Just as trails have special scenic points, so too our businesses have memorable milestones. Take time to savor the sights, celebrate the successes, and rejoice in the rewards. Trails exist not simply to be traveled but to be savored.
  4. Travel with good company. Traveling trails with my children made the experiences all the richer. Travel your business trails with people whom you admire, respect and love. Not only will you garner more insights but you will also experience deeper joy. “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” (Proverbs 13:20)
  5. Expect the unexpected. My children and I found that traveling trails is accompanied by many unexpected things. Unusual animals. Strange twists and turns. Rare wildflowers. Learn to celebrate – rather than dread – the unknown. Embrace the awe-inspiring adventure of following God’s lead! “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not upon your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your path.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
  6. Seek guidance. Even with the best of maps and the sturdiest of shoes, you may find yourself lost or hurt along the way. Seek wisdom, therefore, from God and from those who have traveled the trail before you.
  7. Celebrate Jesus in every joyful step. Jesus is the One who paves our purposeful pathways, and it is a joy to travel our trails with and for Him!

 

“He holds success in store for the upright,
he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,
 for he guards the course of the just
and protects the way of his faithful ones.

Then you will understand what is right and just
and fair—every good path.” (Proverbs 2:7-9)

I am excited for you as you travel trails for God’s glory!

If you need help with trekking triumphantly your business trails, I would be happy to assist you. A healthy business involves health all around: body, mind and spirit. Join 3D Vitality Biblical Health Coach Ann Musico and me in a powerful journey for transforming your body, your business and your life here.

Let’s pray. Precious Master, He Who Is our Purposeful Pathway, thank You so much for paving paths of beauty. Help us, O Lord, as we trek our business trails. Cling to our hands as we heed Your voice and follow Your steps. Allow us to savor the vistas and to be strong in the climbs. We love you so much, and our hearts sing for You as we take each step. It’s in Jesus’ Name that we pray. Amen.

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Aug 30, 2013 By Spiritual Growth, Vocation / Career / Calling 2 Comments

Purposeful Pathways to Success

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Purposeful Pathways to Success on “Never Say Impossible” Radio

 

 

I am tremendously honored to have shared the trials and triumphs of my own “Purposeful Pathway” as well as “Purposeful Pathways for Success” on “Never Say Impossible Radio” with the beautiful and inspirational host Myra Goldick.

Myra writes:

“I recently met Caroline Gavin and was impressed by her spirituality, caring, and her mission of helping others change their lives. I was impressed by her honesty. I found my conversation with her evoked certain feelings within myself to once again go deep within and re-examine my reason for living. Finding yourself and finding your real purpose for living is not always as easy as it seems. Everyone wants to prosper in both their emotional and financial life. As children we expect that these things are a given. As we grow and experience what living is all about regardless of where we started or what our backgrounds are, each and every one of us is faced with the task of defining our mission here on earth. Everyone experiences disappointments and adversities to one degree or another. I always smile when I hear people chatting who seem to believe that the grass is greener in someone else’s backyard. Learning to share and give of yourself to others is a starting point that helps self growth and the development of spiritual knowledge. No one has all the answers, however, others who have traveled on their own spiritual journey can offer a great deal of support and guidance if you are open and receptive.

Here is a short exercise that can help you find your purpose in this life. This is work that can be done on your own. However, it is greatly enhanced when you work with another spiritual person like Caroline Gavin.

  1. What do you value most in life?
  2. Could it be a great relationship, financial independence, connection to God, making a difference in other people’s lives, traveling the world?
  3. How do you define happiness in your life?
  4. What would you like people to say about you at your funeral?
  5. If you could start over, would you and how would you change your direction?”

 

 

Read more at http://www.myragoldick.com/2988/purposeful-pathways-to-success/ and listen to the inspirational conversation by clicking below.

 

God bless you on your Purposeful Pathway!

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Aug 29, 2013 By Vocation / Career / Calling Leave a Comment

Business Tip: Mess to Masterpiece

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Mess to Masterpiece

Christian Creative Business Tip Mess to Masterpiece

Image courtesy Panpote at www.freedigitalphotos.net

Purposeful Pathway is a haven for faith-based entrepreneurs. Part of my mission is equipping faith-based businesses with information that is practical, actionable and Scriptural.

The theme of this post is transforming a mess to a masterpiece!

Have you ever painted with watercolors? Or watched someone do so? The painting often looks not much more than a hodgepodge of colors in its initial stages. There seems to be no semblance of the subject; there seems to be no harmony; there seems to be no hope for a beautiful outcome!

And, yet, out of the mess…slowly but surely…a beautiful masterpiece emerges.

Details emerge from the colors; patterns occur with precision; harmony blissfully happens. The vision once sparkling in the artist’s eye comes to luminous life on paper.

The same phenomenon occurs in our own lives. Messes happen. We stumble through hodgepodges of seemingly meaningless interruptions and trials. We experience random splish-splashes across our canvases.

Then God creates beauty from the splitter-splatter. A treasure from the trials. A masterpiece from the mess.

What does this have to with your faith-based business? Well, as a Christian creative, you surely have a vision sparkling in your eyes. Yet do you sometimes see only splish-splashes in the forms of sporadic successes, inconsistent feedback and less-than-pretty trials? My encouragement to you is that these trials are the timeless colors for God’s precious painting. So, rather than trying to wipe the canvas clean and start anew, step back and allow God to create a masterpiece from the colorful “mess.”

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Let’s explore seven practical yet powerful steps to transform a mess to a masterpiece.

  1. Write about the “messes” in your business. Do you struggle with a lack of clients? Long hours? Lack of joy? Less than crystal-clear clarity regarding your goals? Make a list of your current business struggles.
  2. Ponder the messages of these messes. For example, is a lack of joy actually a gentle nudge to course correct? Is a lack of clients a push to clarify and to work on client attraction? Are long hours a symptom of misaligned beliefs around to-do’s and task treadmills?
  3. Release the timing to God; relinquish also the paintbrush to His hands. Having reviewed the “messes” and their potential messages, prayerfully commit all to God’s timing and ways. Trust in His will to make a masterpiece that will endure eternally. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
  4. Ask God for guidance regarding your role in this mess-to-masterpiece process. Our Lord is the Master and Creator, yet you co-create with Him your business masterpiece. Ask Him specifically what you can do to transform the mess to a masterpiece. “He leads the humble in justice, And He teaches the humble His way.” (Psalm 25:9) Perhaps it is taking that client-attraction class? Hiring a coach? Choosing to boost the fun factor?
  5. Incorporate your mess-to-masterpiece activities in your business plan and daily activities. In learning from the Lord about your role in the fourth step, write now a list of specific masterpiece-making activities to which you commit. Incorporate these activities into your business plan and break them down into daily action steps.
  6. Expect miracles! Yes, expect miracles when you work with God to transform messes to masterpieces. Open wide the eyes of your heart to see these miracles emerging. Perhaps you are having far more fun in business and in life? That is a beautiful breakthrough! Perhaps you sign on a new client with heightened confidence around your fees? Celebrate! Perhaps you experience an aha-moment about your niche? Smile wide! Yes, expect miracles in this masterpiece-making, and they will most certainly happen!
  7. Document your success and delight in God. Delineate in your journal your mess-to-masterpiece transformations. What are they? When did they occur? Whom did they involve? How did they happen? What did you learn? Most importantly, rejoice in our remarkable Savior. He, after all, is the Master of masterpieces!

 

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10)

I am excited for you as you work with God to transform messes to masterpieces!

If you need help with this mess-to-masterpiece process in your business, I would be happy to help. A healthy business involves health all around: body, mind and spirit. Join 3D Vitality Biblical Health Coach Ann Musico and me in a powerful journey for transforming your body, your business and your life here.

Let’s pray. Marvelous Master, thank You so much for creating beauty from chaos; symphony from cacophony; masterpieces from messes. We desire to open our eyes to this miraculous process that we may co-labor with You to create powerful results. We desire to bring You glory in every step of the way, every moment of every day. It’s in Jesus’ Name that we pray. Amen.

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Aug 25, 2013 By Vocation / Career / Calling 2 Comments

Business Tip: Course Correction

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 Course Correction

Christian Business Tip Course Correction

Image courtesy nuchylee at www.freedigitalphotos.net

 

Purposeful Pathway is a haven for faith-based entrepreneurs. Part of my mission is equipping faith-based businesses with information that is practical, actionable and Scriptural.

The theme of this post is course correction!

Setting crystal clear goals is a powerful practice in our faith-based businesses; in setting goals we delineate the destinations for our journeys. And, in creating the action step plans from these goals, we create our roadmaps – or, as I like to view them, our treasure maps!

Yet, for various reasons, God may have us “course correct” along the way. Although course correction is natural, so often we feel “wrong” for “abandoning” our goals. After all, we set our goals to achieve them, didn’t we?

But let’s look at why course correction is often necessary.

One reason for course correction is that our Omniscient Father has other plans for us; He will therefore nudge us to adjust our overall goals. Another reason may be that we need to better align with His timing. Yet another reason may be that our action steps, as well-planned as they are, are not in perfect alignment with God’s will. This does not suggest that they are morally “wrong” but simply that they are not in course with the “big picture” of His will.

So, as uncomfortable as it may be, course correction is a precious process to embrace!

“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

Let’s move to the practicals of this process. Below are seven steps for recognizing the need for and implementing the process of course correction:

  1. Red flag of resistance. Encountering constant resistance on our paths is often a sign that course correction is necessary. For example, you set a goal to coordinate a certain convention; yet you discover that nearly every item is falling through (the presenters, the venue, etc.) Sometimes the resistance exists to strengthen fortitude and patience. Sometimes, however, the resistance exists to nudge us in another direction. It is necessary, therefore, to pray for discernment about this distinction. Ask the Lord to shed light on whether or not the resistance is a red flag. Joyfully trust in His love and wisdom. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
  2. The gut feeling. As entrepreneurs, we can get so busy in “doing” that we tune out “feeling” and “being.” It is important to heed your feelings, subtle as they may be. They exist for a reason! For example: you may find yourself doing everything according to your thoughtfully laid-out plan, yet you sense now on some level that you should be doing otherwise. Ask the Lord to reveal the source of your feelings and where course correction is necessary.
  3. Back to the drawing board. Once you are clear that course correction is necessary, it is time to go back to the drawing board. It is time to redraw your treasure map. Ask the Lord to guide you through any revisions in your goals, business plan and daily action steps. The mission of our faith-based businesses is to serve others and glorify Him. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:20)
  4. Grow comfortable with the uncomfortable. Changing direction requires energy and focus. Envision a ship changing course. It is not an easy thing to do. It is easier to “go with the flow” of the current course. Expect discomfort in the process; expect also that you may question your course correction. It is important to review the reasons why you decided to course correct. Leaning upon the Lord, reviewing your reasons and conjuring your new vision will provide the necessary fuel to redirect your steps.
  5. Get help along the way. We do not journey in a vacuum. God created us to be in relationship – with Him and with others. As you course correct and embark upon unchartered territory, seek support from others who have traveled similar terrain. Be proactive in seeking support from godly friends, peers, mentors and coaches.
  6. Savor success. Document in your journal the details of your course correction: the steps you have changed, the dates you have implemented, and the fruit you have enjoyed. Savoring our course-correction successes enriches the journey and also provides motivation for future course corrections.
  7. Celebrate Christ. Jesus Christ is the one who paves our purposeful pathways. He is the Director of our course corrections. Let us celebrate our Savior as we savor every step!

 

I am excited for you as you course correct your purposeful path for Christ!

If you need help with course correcting in your business, I would be happy to help in this powerful process. A healthy business involves health all around: body, mind and spirit. Join 3D Vitality Biblical Health Coach Ann Musico and me in a powerful journey for transforming your body, your business and your life here.

Let’s pray. Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us with a perfect love. Thank you for nudging us to course correct when necessary. We ask for the grace to hear Your voice and to heed Your call. May our every step be purposeful and aligned with Your Perfect Path. We offer You our lives, our hearts, our minds, our souls. We desire to bring You glory in every step of the way, every moment of every day. It’s in Jesus’ Name that we pray. Amen.

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Aug 19, 2013 By Vocation / Career / Calling 6 Comments

Word of Mom Radio Interview with Caroline Gavin

Caroline Gavin Purposeful Pathway Life Coaching
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I am excited to be featured on Word of Mom Radio with an opportunity to share more about Purposeful Pathway, this Journey with Jesus!

Word of Mom Radio shares:

“Thursday, June 28th on Word of Mom Radio, Caroline Gavin joins me from 2-3 p.m. EDT.  Caroline is a Christian Life Coach, Speaker and Author of Purposeful Pathway: Your Journey with Jesus. As a Life Coach and the Founder of Purposeful Pathway, she helps others discern their vocational paths, live with purpose and align with God’s Way. The result of coaching is God-centered transformation.

Join us on Word of Mom Radio and find out how to refresh with her poetry and other reflections at Purposeful Pathway and sign up for a free newsletter and e-book: Purposeful Pathway: A Journey to Joy.  You can connect with Caroline also via Facebook and Twitter.”

I would be honored for you to join me on Word of Mom Radio!

Word of Mom Radio Interview with Caroline Gavin

Look forward to “seeing” you there!

 

~*~

Interested in working with a Christian Life Coach? Contact Caroline Gavin via caroline@purposefulpathway.com for a Free Christian Life Coaching Consultation.

 

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Jun 27, 2012 By Spiritual Growth, Vocation / Career / Calling 2 Comments

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