Carol Stokes

Note from Carol

You know that woman you see and think, "Wow! She's really got it all together"? Well, I was that woman admired up-close and from afar. Not sipping cocktails on a yacht, but the smart woman you admire from a distance. People in my circle thought I had all the answers. They saw me as someone who juggled life well. That's why everyone came to me for advice and help. But the truth was far from that.
 
The earlier years ...
I spent years being everything to everybody. I was the family go-to, the reliable friend, the one with the advice everyone wanted. Demands seemed endless, and I was pulled in every direction. Years earlier, I became the power of attorney and caregiver for an older relative with mental health issues. That’s when things really became chaotic and overwhelming.
 
I felt like I was all over the place—beyond exhausted, trying not to let anyone down. I lived through years of never-ending expectations, bending over backwards to be the generous helper. The truth is, I gave so much of myself that I gave out. That lifestyle took a toll on me.
 
I was giving to everybody but me. My life was always on hold because someone else's "stuff" took up my time and energy, leaving little or nothing for myself. My goals and dreams were constantly placed on the back burner.
 
But that wasn’t the worst part.
 
The worst part was my health. I didn’t realize how much stress I was under until my body started breaking down. I had to stop and reevaluate everything and everyone. I created a plan that made sense for me, so I could live my life for myself.
 
I needed my health and a fulfilling life. I wanted peace, so I made some serious changes. What changed?
 
I changed.
 
I took a deep dive into my life and what was happening. I believe life happens not to us, but for us. I had heart, compassion, and knowledge that others needed, but I left something out of the equation—my own mental fitness. I needed to recognize what was mine to do and what wasn’t. I learned there is a time to say "yes" and a time to say "no." With these life lessons, I created a blueprint for myself and for women like you.
 
The lessons I learned are priceless. I regret nothing and take nothing for granted. Everything I experienced has become a reminder for me and a blueprint for living that I love teaching women.
 
Society has us convinced that we should give until it hurts, often praising those who do. With this mindset, no wonder women feel guilty, embarrassed, confused, and frustrated when wanting to do for themselves. Many even experience severe health declines. To me, that isn't living.
 
I want to live, and I want you to live this one life as amazingly as possible!
 
Sacrificing one life for another or others is not something we should be applauding. A fulfilled and peace-filled woman is more valuable to herself and the world than an unfulfilled, just-surviving woman. After some serious bumps on the head and a rough rollercoaster, I learned that there are lines to be drawn and that we can love and support our loved ones in a way that does not sacrifice our own well-being.
 
I want peace and fulfillment for you too ...  
Helping women see their true value, honor their own needs, and pursue a life of fulfillment and peace is my mission. I’ve walked this path, and now, I’m here to guide you on yours.

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