I grew up timid—frightened of my own shadow, careful with every step, scanning rooms for approval before I spoke. The loneliness was strong. I carried it into my teens like a worn-out sweater that was too comfortable to throw. By my late teens, I started gathering a little courage, but the old script continued: “if I can just find the right people, the right approval, the right belonging, I’ll be OK”.

Fear doesn’t disappear because we’re strong. It rides with us like a backpack — and resilience is learning to keep moving anyway. In this panel, we explored how to stay grounded when the world feels heavy.

In the arms of a 1,000-year-old Sitka Spruce in Alaska, I felt something beyond words—oneness with nature, with life, and with the divine. Just as a sacred moment in Jerusalem revealed the kindness that flows across all faiths, this ancient tree whispered the same truth: we are all connected.

Resilience isn’t built overnight — it grows from small, intentional shifts. From starting your day with clarity to celebrating micro-wins, here are five simple ways to strengthen your resilience every day

Emotional intelligence plays a pivotal role in professional growth by enhancing our ability to understand and manage emotions, both in ourselves and others. This skill can significantly improve team dynamics and help us navigate career challenges with greater ease.

As a child, I was terrified of the monsters I imagined lived under my tall teakwood bed. One night, I decided to face the fear. I peeked under—and found nothing. That small act of courage became a turning point. Over time, I learned that fear isn’t always something to run from. Sometimes, it’s the invitation to grow.

“Let’s go, Mom! Stop being so scared, c’mon!” my son said from the back seat, wide-eyed with excitement.

We were living in Santa Clara, just 35 minutes from San Francisco—but for me, that city felt like another world. No GPS, just MapQuest printouts and a deep fear of getting lost.

But he believed in me.

And so I drove. Slowly. Hesitantly. Then again. And again.

Feeling like it’s time for a fresh start—but not sure what that really looks like?
In this week’s post, I explore the quiet power of a reset—not as a dramatic overhaul, but as a gentle return to clarity, calm, and intention.
Whether you're letting go of old stories, decluttering your space (or your emotions), or simply listening for that inner nudge to begin again, this reflection is for you.

A reset isn’t about erasing your past—it’s about realigning with the life you’re meant to live.

Read the full blog now: “Reset: A Fresh Start, Your Way”

In today’s fast-moving world, resilience isn’t just about pushing through—it’s about finding that quiet inner sanctuary where emotional balance lives. As part of my journey with the Cafe of Joy, and through my coaching practice at CoachMeLife, I’ve explored how equanimity can help us meet life’s highs and lows with steady strength.

There were seasons in my life when it felt like I was swimming against a tide that never let up — wave after wave of grief, fear, and uncertainty. I didn’t just question my strength; I doubted if I had any at all. What I learned in those moments changed everything: resilience isn’t about fighting harder, it’s about knowing when to push through… and when to float.