In a world filled with noise and a constant push to do more, how do could you hear the gentle guidance of your own heart? Your purpose isn’t out there waiting for you to find it. It’s already within you. The key is to quiet the external chatter and the internal doubts so you can listen.

This is not about a majestic spiritual practice. It’s about finding small moments to breathe, to feel, and to simply be. Your heart communicates through your energy—the things that fill you up, the conversations that leave you feeling alive, and the problems you can’t stop thinking about. When you intentionally listen, you begin to trust that inner voice and step into a life that feels authentic and aligned.

We Read Books, Listen to Podcasts, and We Believe they hold the Secret to Our Purpose.

We’ve been conditioned to look outside of ourselves for the answers. While there is insight to be gained from external sources, the ultimate map to your authentic life is written within your own heart.

The constant search for external validation keeps you in a state of striving, always chasing a future version of yourself. But your purpose is not a future destination; it’s a present state of being. The most powerful breakthroughs don’t come from a new strategy; they come from a moment of stillness where you finally hear your own truth.

Your Heart Speaks the Language of Energy, Intuition, and Emotion.

Your heart speaks a different language than your mind. It doesn’t use logic or data; it uses energy, intuition, and emotion. While a healthy balance between heart and mind is important, the moment I gave myself permission to lead with my heart first and foremost is when the beautiful unfolding of all things started.

Think about the last time you felt a surge of passion for a project, or a deep sense of connection during a conversation. That feeling of aliveness is your heart telling you, “This way! This is where your energy wants to flow.” Just as the feelings of exhaustion, dread, or heaviness are also signs. They are your heart gently guidance, “This is not for you.”

Learning to listen to these signs is a practice. It requires you to create space in your life for quiet reflection and intentional presence.

Three Simple Practices to Tune into Your Heart.

You don’t need a special event or hours of meditation to connect with your heart. You can start right now with small, manageable steps.

1. The Pause:
   Before you start your day, or before you make a decision, take just one minute to pause. Close your eyes, place both hands on your heart, and simply ask, “What is the most aligned action for me right now?” Then, listen for the feeling or the subtle thought that arises. Don’t overthink it—just observe.
   
2. Follow the Feeling:
   Notice what activities, people, and conversations leave you feeling energized and alive. These are your “energy suppliers.” Intentionally seek more of these experiences. At the same time, notice what drains you and try to limit those interactions.
   
3. Reflect on Your Obsessions:
   What are the problems you can’t stop thinking about? What causes or topics light a fire in your belly? Your deepest frustrations and passions are often pointing directly to your purpose. Don’t dismiss them as random thoughts; they are a direct line from your heart to your unique calling, your genuine purpose.
   

Listening to your heart is the ultimate act of self-trust. It’s the courageous step that allows you to stop seeking and start living. When you respect yourself enough to honor your inner knowing, you unlock your most genuine self and begin to live your life with more meaning and on purpose.

What’s one small step you can take today to tune into the wisdom of your own heart?

Remember that moment I shared in my last post? The one where a consultant, with the best of intentions, suggested I lead more with my head and less with my heart? It was the biggest turning point of my career, pushing me to redefine what entrepreneurial success really means – for me. And trust me, it wasn’t about silencing my heart.

If you’re anything like the “old me,” you might be thinking, “But how did you actually do it, Susan? How did you go from burnout to building a purpose-driven impact that feels completely authentic and aligned with your personal values and desires?”

That’s the question I want to answer today. Because while the first step was recognizing the need for change, the biggest shifts occurred once I began the inner work of reflection and growth.

It Was a Personal Revolution

When I decided to ditch the “blood, sweat, and tears” mentality, it meant so much more than simply tweaking my business model. It was about a complete overhaul of how I showed up in the world, both personally and professionally. I realized that my burnout wasn’t just a symptom of overwork; the misalignment I was experiencing, was a result of a root cause.

For years, I’d bought into the idea that being an entrepreneur meant pushing harder, sacrificing more, and constantly striving for external validation. But my heart knew better. It knew that real impact and true sustainable success came from a place of authenticity and inner strength.

So, I rolled up my sleeves and instead of jumping straight into business strategies, I started with me.

From Self-Doubt to Unshakeable Self-Belief

This inner work wasn’t always easy. It meant confronting old beliefs that no longer served me, challenging my own self-doubt, and learning to sincerely appreciate my unique gifts and strengths.

Here’s a glimpse into what that “inner work” looked like for me:

• I spent time clarifying what genuinely mattered to me, beyond societal expectations. It was more than what I wanted to achieve, it was about who I wanted to be and how I wanted to feel while doing it. This clarity became my compass.
  
• Remember how I instinctively knew why I became an entrepreneur – to create, inspire, and lead with my heart? I learned to trust that inner voice more and more, even when it go against the status quo, this continues to drive my motivation to go all in with heart-centered leadership.
  
• I focused on developing strategies to deal with specific emotions when they came up. I learned how to bounce back from setbacks, and maintain a positive outlook, even when things got tough.
  
• I began noticing some important changes happening. The biggest of all was acknowledging my unique gifts, talents, and abilities. For too long, I focused on what I thought I lacked. The inner work helped me celebrate me, as an individual, and to honour the journey that lead me to becoming a Social Entrepreneur and Impact Activator.

This journey of personal growth was the foundation for everything else. It’s what gave me the confidence to completely revamp my entrepreneurial journey and begin living life on my terms.

Your Inner Work is How Your Purpose-Driven Impact Journey Begins.

This isn’t just about feeling or doing good; it’s about building a sustainable, purpose-driven impact that lights you up from the inside out every single day. It’s about proving to yourself, and to anyone who might doubt it, that leading with your heart is not just good business – it’s the best business.

If my story resonates with you, and you’re curious about how doing your own inner work can revamp your entrepreneurial journey, reach out to me personally. I’d be happy to share some ideas that have helped me as well as the individuals who helped me achieve the level of confidence I need to make the shift from business to purpose-driven impact.

It begins with a single thought that transforms into an idea, then into a genuine passion. That’s exactly how heart-centered leaders, dreamers, and doers, are making the world a better place to live, work, and play.

The Power of a Single Thought

Think about it, every change, big or small, that you’ve ever witnessed, began with just one genuine thought, Right? That thought grew into an idea, and that idea awakened an undeniable passion. This is our unique path as heart-centered leaders. We bring those dreams to life to make a real difference in the world around us.

Our Voice, Our Impact.

Through our authentic voice and inspired actions, we have the incredible power to shift mindsets. We introduce fresh perspectives that inspire individuals and entire communities to follow our heart-led lead. We’re building better futures, one connection at a time. By generously sharing our expertise, our unique gifts, and our talents, we help others achieve their own desired results.

We’re busy building strong foundations of trust, respect, understanding, and collaboration.

Leading with heart by Example is the Only Way to Lead Effectively

For over two decades, I poured all my energy into doing everything for those with incredible ideas and visions. While I saw some amazing results, empowering others to activate their own paths was the only way this made sense. This is the reason I became a Social Entrepreneur and Impact Activator.

Now, my focus is guiding a community of people with BOLD dreams and FRESH perspectives. Because real results happen when we surround ourselves with other Heart-Centered Leaders.

The Beyond ‘Biz’ Experience: Your Community for Positive Change and Remarkable Results

“Business,” for me, often felt like a separate entity. It was like a disconnect between my personal identity and what I was doing professionally. I loved my work, but I knew there had to be a better way. That’s when my purpose began showing itself to me, and eventually, the Beyond ‘Biz’ Experience was born!

I created this online space to inspire and guide heart-centered leaders, dreamers, and doers toward their own purpose-driven impact. I wanted a platform to share my journey and experience. Having access to a space like this is key to turning ideas, passions, and dreams into life-changing, world-improving results.

Are You Ready to Tap Into Your Own Heart?

I am living proof that every big dream starts small. The principles I live and teach in the Beyond ‘Biz’ Experience inspired me to finally pursue another idea. As this idea unfolds, it’s quickly becoming a beautiful example to share within our heart-centered community for an extra dose of inspiration.

I invite you to explore your own thoughts and ideas and if you’d like to witness purpose-driven impacts in action. Here are a few ways you can join in on the fun:

1. Watch my Bold Dream to Reality as it unfolds here!
2. If your curious and want to learn the best ways to participate, have a look at my hub
3. If you already know that surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals is key, I invite you to join our Heart-Centered Community today!

You know that initial rush of excitement when you start something new? An excitement that is often mixed with this unseen wave of overwhelm and fatigue. That feeling of constantly chasing results that seem just out of reach. We all begin this journey with a genuine desire to make a real difference. Only to find ourselves caught in endless cycles of hustle, stress, and frustration. Does this Sound familiar? Here’s how I went from Burnout to Breakthrough.

The Unseen Overwhelm We All Experience

In all honesty, if I’m sharing these ideas with you, it’s because I’ve been there. No matter how things looked, there was a point where the constant striving for more left me feeling completely drained. I was doing all the “right” things and hitting some targets. However, the excitement I felt when I first started on this path was just gone. It was like I was running on fumes and I knew this wasn’t the journey I signed up for. That’s when I realized something had to change and leading me to discover these 8 principles. This is what changed everything, taking me from hustle to heart.

That initial spark we feel when we set out to make a difference is so powerful. We pour our energy, our thoughts, our very selves into our work. But then, quietly, subtly, the pressure builds. The chase for “more” and the relentless pursuit of external validation can leave us feeling completely depleted. It’s like we’re constantly on a hamster wheel, but not moving forward in a way that feeds our soul.

From Hustle to Heart

I remember that turning point for me. The exhaustion had settled deep into my bones, and I knew I couldn’t keep going that way. It was a wake-up call that led me to explore a new approach. One rooted in connection, authenticity, and genuine purpose.

What I found were 8 powerful shifts that completely changed my experience. They helped me reconnect with the why that started it all and put me on this awesome path.

Principle 1: From End Game to Connections

Think about it: when you start seeing every interaction as an opportunity to build a genuine relationship rather than just keeping your eye on the prize, something magical happens. Your network suddenly becomes your greatest asset, and everything else begins to naturally fall into place for the better.

Inspired Tip: Instead of solely focusing on what you can gain, ask: How can I sincerely connect with this person? How can I understand their story? How can I genuinely impact their life, even in a small way? There’s incredible, lasting power in that.

Principle 2: From Profit to Purpose

Let’s be honest, the constant chase for profit can wear you down. It’s so easy to get lost in metrics and bottom lines, isn’t it? But what if you shifted your focus back to the the qualities, gifts, talents and expertise you possess? When your purpose is centered on creating positive change, making decisions no longer feels like a tedious task. It becomes exhilarating when the focus is on serving instead of simply selling.

Inspired Tip: Instead of just selling, what if we focused on empowering others with solutions to their most pressing challenges? The truth is, when you lead with your heart, profit often becomes a natural, sustainable, and self-satisfying outcome.

Principle 3: From Control to Letting Go

In the pursuit of success, we often cling to ideas, strategies, and expectations. This clinging can feel incredibly heavy, right? Give yourself permission to let go of the outcome. Trust your inner voice. When you focus on being true to yourself, every action will flow from a place of inspiration.

Inspired Tip: The freedom of letting go brings fresher perspectives and opens doors to greater, often unexpected, opportunities.

Principle 4: From Transactional to the Celebration of Interactions.

Consider being mindfully present with others. When you shift away from a transactional lens, you might just discover the joy and excitement in authentic conversations. These pivotal moments can raise your energetic vibration, naturally inspiring others to follow your heart-centered lead.

Inspired Tip: Take a moment to engage with compassion and empathy. Start the conversations, share your journey, make it relatable and listen attentively, showing genuine compassion. It’s about building bridges, not just crossing them.

Principle 5: From Perfection to Imperfection

Chasing ‘results’ can make us forget a key truth. Any journey, especially one where you’re truly making a difference, will have its missteps and challenges. It’s just how it goes. Once you accept that, moving forward feels far less daunting.

Inspired Tip: There’s so much talk about “failure,” but what if we intentionally ignore that word altogether? What if we appreciate the “missteps” and “challenges” that shape our individual journey? They’re not setbacks; they’re stepping stones.

Principle 6: From Scarcity to Abundance

When our focus is solely on immediate results, it can easily create a scarcity mentality. This is all too common in the world as we see it today. I know first-hand how challenging it can be to think in terms of abundance, especially when times are tough.

Inspired Tip: Realizing that abundance is all around you is a mindset you can build. It’s about shifting your perspective from what’s missing to what’s possible. This is what can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Principle 7: From Competition to Community

Instead of competing, find your people. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion for making an impact. Sharing your experiences, both the highs and the lows, creates an environment of mutual understanding. It’s a space filled with inspiration and support where everyone thrives.

Inspired Tip: If you haven’t heard this already, you have something incredibly special that no one else has. You bring something incredibly special to the table. No matter your field, your projects, or your skills—NO ONE can do ‘your thing’ quite like you! Accept that uniqueness about you!

Principle 8: From Mind to Mostly Heart!

Let’s be real, mind and heart in life is a balancing act. What if we followed/led with our heart 80 percent of the time and tapped into our mind just 20 percent? Wouldn’t this be transformational in absolutely every area of our lives?

Inspired Tip: If the work you do doesn’t genuinely light you up, something is off. If your mental health is being affected by a lack of results, it’s time to check in with your heart. This isn’t necessarily a sign for you to quit. It’s just a gentle nudge to let you know that you have the power to change. However that looks like for you, this is your path!

My Own Path to Purpose-Driven Impact Creation Continues to Evolve.

This is how I transitioned from “business as usual” to becoming a Social Entrepreneur and Impact Activator. It’s a journey that will forever unfold, and yes, sometimes requiring fixes. However, it’s the steps I’ve taken that’s allowed me to feel more connected and excited about my purpose.

Even though wish I had learned these principles when I first started on this path. I know now, that part of my purpose was going through the motions of learning them.

Ready to explore how these shifts can transform your own journey from burnout to breakthrough?

Click here to take the first step towards a more purpose-driven path.

This is where you shine best. You don’t need to be someone else, or achieve some worldly recognized achievement, to make an impact. Your unique blend of experiences is your way of seeing the world. It’s your kindness, your skills, and everything in between that are the things the world needs. When you lean into who you are authentically, you naturally gravitate towards what matters to you. And that, my friend, is where your purpose is waiting for you to step in.

Here’s a little secret: purpose often shows up in the quiet moments. Through the connections you build, and the genuine way you show up. It’s less about the spotlight and more about the light you bring to others, and to yourself.

Here’s what this typically looks like:

• Quiet, everyday actions that build meaningful connections and trust. Think of the people your serve with your skills and expertise. The neighbour’s you help, or the kind words you offered to a stranger this week. These are the small, consistent inspired actions that lead to big changes.
  
• Self-satisfaction from work that really aligns with who you are and what you believe in. It’s that feeling of “this just feels right.” It’s not about the job title, but the joy and meaning you find in the daily tasks, big and small.
  
• Honest Interactions that make your unique strengths, experiences, and even your vulnerabilities your greatest contribution.

When you show up authentically, you naturally encourage others to do the same. That sets off a chain reaction of positive outcomes and results.

Your Purpose is Literally Just One Heartbeat Away!

It’s not some distant mountain to climb, it’s the path you’re already on, you just might not see it yet. It’s in the way you listen and the way you care. The way you create, the way you problem-solve, even in the smallest of moments.

We all fall into the trap of thinking that our purpose is something we have to find. Like a hidden treasure at the top of that distant mountain. But what if it’s not out there at all? What if it’s already merged into the fibre of your being. Beating with the rhythm of your heart and your everyday life? I know that you have within you a very special gift that no one else has, because we all do! These aren’t things you need to look for or acquire; they’re already part of your unique make. You’re already living your purpose in countless subtle ways. Making an impact in the lives of the people who matter the most to you… It’s still unfolding for you.

Maybe, Deep Down, You’ve Always Felt that Your Everyday Contributions Weren’t “Enough.”

If the idea of finding your purpose in quiet, daily actions feels a bit off-key to you. I completely get it. We’ve all been conditioned to believe impact looks a certain way. Perhaps it’s challenging the big, splashy narrative you’ve always heard. Or maybe, deep down, you’ve always felt that your everyday contributions weren’t “enough.” Let’s explore that feeling, because sometimes, what feels “off” is actually just a subtle, honest message trying to be heard.

It took me a long time to get here. This week I celebrated my 55^th birthday, and I’ve been searching for as long as I can remember. The wild thing, for me, was when I discovered I had been working toward it all along. However, it only became real in my mind and in my heart when I stopped, explored, and stepped into it!

What if… 🤔 you are just one heartbeat away from fully stepping into your purpose?

Ready to explore what that looks like for you? Your unique purpose is waiting for you to acknowledge it.

Your Purpose is Calling. Are You Ready to Unleash It?