For many years, I struggled with the idea that anything I spent money on was wrong; especially, things for my home or my wardrobe or my beauty routine. I specifically remember one moment growing up when a woman in my family criticized my desire for a manicure as “unnecessary” and “indulgent”. Experiences like this are plentiful in my life. And while I have compassion for the context surrounding these comments, it’s safe to say that I have struggled to find a peace around investing in myself, in any form.

The year I turned 40 brought much of this to a head; and over the next few years I was forced to explore my relationship with things. What was truly important to me? How did I want to spend my money and time? Who did I want to watch and listen to with suggestions on what was important and what to invest in? I by no means have it completely figured out, and I certainly have made a million mistakes along the way, butI have become much more confident in the people, places, information, and things that are worth my hard earned time, energy, and money.

What I’ve come to believe is that the right things are extremely important. And by the right things, I mean the things that, in and of themselves, spark joy and foster beauty for each of us individually. Knowing what these are takes awareness and presence in the moment… something that for most of us has become more and more challenging in the growing world of social media and Instagram creators.

This is the work I’ve done, and continue to do. To trust my decisions. And to invest in things without the stress, guilt, or shame that they used to.

And the beautiful part is that over time, I discovered a gift in helping others hear their own voice, too. In my corporate work with executives and leaders, as well as with private clients, it’s the same thing: we’re afraid to listen, unsure to believe, and restricted by the thoughts, beliefs, and opinions of others. It’s truly the courage and devotion to going within that brings the clarity we all seem to crave.

This year, I created COLLECTYF, a company and community to support women to hear their voice and feel confident about the choices they make in all aspects of their life and livelihood. For many reasons, this feels more important in our world than it ever has. This newsletter, a COLLECTYF moment, will celebrate that journey for all of us. My vision is that every woman comes to trust and hear her own voice, building and creating purposeful, fulfilling lives that make the world a happy, more joyful place to be.