As the clock ticks toward a new year, many of us find ourselves at the intersection of reflection and anticipation. We look back on the moments that shaped us and forward to the possibilities that await. This threshold is a space of transformation, where courage and renewal meet to guide us into the unknown.
At Unique Soapstone Experiences (USE) and the Empowerment, Growth, and Success Institute (EGSI), transformation lies at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s sculpting a raw stone into a meaningful work of art or reshaping your mindset to unlock your full potential, we believe that transformation is not just an outcome—it’s a process.
The Art of Transformation
In many ways, 2024 has been a year of profound transformation for me personally and professionally. The first quarter and much of the second were some of the best yet for Unique Soapstone Experiences. Workshops were thriving, connections were blossoming, and the future looked brighter than ever. Personally, I was navigating challenging but necessary work—especially in my relationships with my parents—and finding immense joy and fulfillment in coaching sports. Watching my athletes grow through their own journeys in sport and life was inspiring, and it felt like everything was moving forward.
But then summer hit, and life took an unexpected turn. Normally, summer is a time for me to connect with nature—hiking, climbing, and kayaking. Instead, I found myself working 16-hour days, seven days a week. Contracts I fought hard to secure didn’t pan out for the fall, and by September, finances were tightening. I was so close to burnout, questioning everything. And then, in a heartbreaking twist, I lost both of my parents within two weeks of each other.
This led to a journey home—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. It was a time to learn, to connect, and to put things to rest. Grieving while trying to re-find my place in this world became a delicate balance. I turned inward, working on rebranding my skills and businesses while navigating the deep shadows of grief. At times, I felt like I was losing faith, trying to take the safer route of finding a job, only to be redirected by the universe. Slowly but surely, I regained my faith and ended the year with an upward drive, shining light into my dark corners and rediscovering my path.
The Art and Mindset of Transformation
In our workshops at Unique Soapstone Experiences, participants begin with a simple block of stone. It’s unformed, full of potential, and a little intimidating. The first touch of the chisel is often hesitant, but as you carve away, something magical happens: you start to see possibility where once there was only uncertainty. The process of sculpting mirrors life itself—to transform, we must let go of what no longer serves us and embrace the courage to create something new.
Similarly, at EGSI, we focus on the inner work of transformation. Real change starts with your mindset—the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world around you. Too often, self-doubt and fear keep us stuck, chiseling away at our confidence instead of our potential. But with the right tools and guidance, you can shift your perspective and transform not only how you think but how you show up in your life.
This year, my personal journey has underscored these truths. Transformation requires both courage and curiosity. Courage to step into the unknown and curiosity to ask, “What’s possible?” It’s a journey of discovery—of yourself, your strengths, and your capacity to grow. Whether you’re navigating a career shift, personal growth, or a creative project, the tools I’ve used to carve my path can help you carve yours.
The Synergy of Art and Mindset
Transformation is most powerful when it integrates the outer and inner worlds. Sculpting a stone teaches patience, persistence, and the value of imperfection. Shifting your mindset provides clarity, confidence, and the belief that you can change. Together, these practices create a holistic approach to growth, where creativity fuels your courage, and mindfulness anchors your actions.
Embrace Your Transformation
This New Year, we invite you to embark on your own transformative journey. Whether through the meditative art of soapstone carving or the empowering process of mindset coaching, you have the tools to shape your life with intention and purpose.
Join Us in 2025
• Workshops: Discover the magic of soapstone carving in a hands-on workshop. Experience mindfulness, creativity, and the joy of transformation as you create your own masterpiece.
• Coaching: Take the next step in your personal and professional growth with mindset coaching through EGSI. Unlock the courage to transform your challenges into opportunities.
As you stand at the start of a new year, remember this: Transformation isn’t about reaching an endpoint. It’s about the journey, the lessons, and the growth along the way.
Here’s to chiseling away self-doubt, shaping new possibilities, and embracing the courage to transform. Let’s make 2025 a masterpiece.
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