Another Year Grateful With a Vision

December 30, 2019December 30, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 2 Comments

2019 is almost over and it is time for me to reflect upon my year gone by. A mighty year I have paved my way through, including drought and personal growth. In review, my vision board has been my regular guidance.

Did you reach some of the goals that you set out to achieve in 2019?

Some goals reached, others still a work in progress. Overall I am happy with my own personal achievements and what I have been able to extend in doing for others. I finally learned the importance of looking after myself, something very unfamiliar to me.

This year for me, was one for learning and expanding my comfort zone. Personal growth was a priority in 2019 and I amazed myself and enjoyed learning in the process. You just never know what you are capable of until you have a go.

My year started with the creation of a vision board and was used as a reminder throughout the year to motivate and inspire me. A vision board is a collage of words and pictures to represent your goals and dreams. It is used as a visualisation tool.

I enjoyed creating my vision board for 2019, as I used pictures, words and colours to personally represent my goals and to inspire my own success.

Well, how did I go? Was I successful?

Success is not a destination but a journey.

So YES I believe I have been successful to achieve and make progress on what is important to me.

OWN WHO YOU ARE! This was my mantra or affirmation for 2019. I made a choice to express who I was and love the person that I am, with faults and imperfections. This is who I am, a unique individual finding her way in this world. You are never too old to set another goal and dream a new dream.

My 2019 goals were to:

Write a Book – My talent had blossomed this year and my passion for writing has developed. Through my words in this blog, I have been able to inspire and help others to shape their lives by making better choices and believing in themselves. As an Author, my book may not be complete but it has progressed in some way. For this I am grateful. This goal has also diversified into 2 separate books that I want to write. My blog is the basis of those books remaining within my mind. I attended a workshop with a published Author at the Rural Women’s Gathering this year in Walcha and I have learned specific techniques for my writing to use in the future.

Public Speaking – I joined Tamworth Toastmasters to tackle my fear of public speaking and gain confidence in communication skills. I have learned great techniques and met some great people that encourage me. I also attended a Grow your Speaking Biz Workshop with Sharon Jurd Events and I now enjoy speaking to others with a specific message to inspire the listeners. I have also had several opportunities to speak to community groups on agricultural issues, hypnotherapy, my business, anxiety and to inspire students at my former primary school. My greatest fear has been conquered. I still get nervous but more excited now.

“Country Heart Spark” Blog – My unique way of sharing experiences, thoughts and motivation to inspire others. Like a journal, but for the public to view, I can connect with people, encourage and support them through my writing. To have found that something special in me and be able to share with others, is enormous. I love to write and express myself wholeheartedly in the hope that someone really needs to read what I have written today. The feedback I receive is what keeps me going and I love to know when I have helped someone in some unique way.

Improve Health – I have struggled with my weight, emotional eating and lack of self-care of myself over the years. This year I have had a few tests with my doctor, had a diagnosis and dietitian advice. Finally, food started to make sense with how my body was reacting to certain foods. It was the first time that I actually made a connection. I also participated in coaching with Katie Godden on Simple Steps to Better Health which was a great motivation and support. Although limited by finances in this drought, I was able to understand my health issues and start making progress. I had been eating much better, with more salads, vegetables and meats. Unfortunately, over the festive season I have made some unhealthy choices but my body tells me when I forget to listen.

Financial Relief – Drought has been crippling us and business choices have been limited for over 2 years. Whilst experiencing the worst drought in 100 years, we still have been making decisions, right or wrong, to sustainably remain in farming. We did make the decision this year to sell part of our farming property, subdivided and put it on the market. We are down-sizing and business will change and I will find off-farm income. With this land sale, we will achieve some financial relief.

Design Website – I have now created 3 websites from scratch. I love to be creative and design marketing material. Self-taught with information online, I managed to create these websites to reflect the businesses using my good eye for detail. However, I have even surprised myself with the results and how much I enjoy it. Completed in style!

Spend Time with Family – As a mother of grown-up children, I miss not having dependants. But our children are always our babies, so being there to listen, to advise when needed and to help teach them adult lessons… becomes a new task. Drought has made time a huge limitation, but I have managed regular contact with my sons and family. It was lovely to have both of our sons home for Christmas with their partners and to see their personalities shine. In October, I also enjoyed a few days with my Mum and valued the one-on-one time I was able to spend with her.

Time-Out – I have been using a visualisation technique. Visualising myself as a jug full of water, giving to others. As I started to run dry, I realised I can’t be there for others if I do not refuel myself first. When I learned to do this, my jug was full enough to share around and help others. I now find time to write, to unwind and to express myself. I also give myself time-out away from work, to connect with local organisations, volunteer my time and communicate with others. During this drought with the mental and physical exhaustion, I still found a little time to relax, feel calmer and be happy in life. Whatever it is that you love, find time to do it.

Our performance is so much better and we are much more productive when we acknowledge that we are worth it. We need to take the time to meet our own needs, nurture ourselves from the inside and embrace our capabilities.

Take time to reflect on your own year, your own goals and your own achievements. It is surprising, in our review, that we have been very successful and made mighty progress in our lives. Be kind to yourself and be kind to others.

Enjoy your New Year’s Eve festivities.

Take care, Karen.

“Starting today I need to forget what’s gone,

appreciate what still remains,

and look forward to what’s coming next.”

~ Author Unknown

Rural Reflections #29

December 8, 2019December 8, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 4 Comments

Life is like a book. Some chapters in our lives wear us down. Sometimes we experience sad times, but sometimes we have good times and excitement in our lives. If we never turn the page, we will never know what our next chapter in life holds for us. Who knows it could be our most exciting chapter ever.

Times have been very tough for all of us on the land, especially in this region. But knowing that we are all going through this together, somehow gives reassurance and strength to believe in our soul purpose to produce food for our nation.

Life is about to change for me. With the downsizing of our farming property in the near future, I will take a step back from it all… to pursue work elsewhere in an effort to support the ongoing operations on the farm.

Rather than view this change with hesitation, I choose to see this as an exciting chapter about to reveal itself. Learning new things empowers me, and on my latest journey of personal growth, I am eager to see where life takes me.

When one has not experienced the job interview process, after 25 years of self-employment… this process could be a little daunting. Strangely enough, however, I am not nervous at all. I believe I know what I am capable of and what special gifts I can offer the wider world. Nobody else knows us better than ourselves.

I have had a couple of job interviews and applied for a couple more in the business administration area and am ready to see where this takes me. With nothing set in stone yet, I am allowing myself to blossom.

My advice to anyone going through a change right now… just breathe, do your best to showcase who you are and enjoy the opportunities before you. Life will not give you too much to handle… just keep making decisions to get through it.

Today I found this photo to share with you. I took this photo in June this year when I thought that after a shower of rain, maybe, just maybe, seasonal conditions would turn around for us. A shade of green was scattered through the back paddocks. Although temporary, it gave us all a boost to soldier on.

Rural Reflection #29…

image subject to copyright

Why I like this photo? It serves as a visual analogy. The older large tree on the left with the deformed tree growths… is feeling the struggle of conditions yet not inhibited to serve its purpose. In comparison, we may be getting a little older, a little tired and feeling the struggle in this drought… but we have a purpose to share our talents with the world and provide a little shade of comfort for others.

Similarly, the small green tree on the right is growing from an old stump of a tree that would have been cut down many years ago. From the centre of an old hollow stump, this seedling would have grown, feeling the protection from the environment until it was able to blossom. Even in drought conditions, this beautiful tree looks healthy and is still growing.

This just shows that we depend on one another in our personal development. But more importantly, change is how we evolve into the person we truly are. Through change… whether it is changing our perception or thought processes… or with life-changing events… we evolve and progress through the chapters in our lives.

So be kind to yourself, be kind to others and enjoy your next chapter!

Take care, Karen.

“Change is inevitable,

Growth is optional.

~ John C. Maxwell

Rural Reflections #23

August 18, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 2 Comments

The light has been flickering as I have been juggling life, businesses and my own personal growth. I have been neglecting to share my photos with you as part of my weekly feature Rural Reflections. Guilty I am, but I am back with so much to share. Thank you for waiting for me.

My passion to be more, and to do more, has led me to a new business and new skills to excel with. My underlying desire for sustaining the agricultural industry still exists beneath it all, but my passion to expand and inspire people every day has become the driver in my life. And I am loving life right now.

Remember back, only a year ago, I was suffering from depression and feeling sorry for myself. Angry that I had to experience such heart-wrenching feelings and loss of all basic motivation in life. Depression and anxiety had overwhelmed me… I had no idea what was going to happen and where life was guiding me.

So many of us, unfortunately, do go through these depressive numbing cycles and anxiety can consume us every day. My gift was to experience this first-hand. In hindsight, I now know that it had to happen. How was I to understand if I didn’t feel it for myself?

This time in my life… was necessary to reveal my true passion and what I can do for the world around me. I was determined and with the support around me, I made it through… with flying colours.

My new business provides freelance writing, administration services, hypnotherapy, speaking and life/business coaching. Every day I feel so blessed and grateful to be able to share my skills with those in need. Those that need guidance… those that need office management… and those that need the inspiration to believe in themselves. My words are my gift and I am on a journey to share and to uplift each and every one of you.

Today marks the day, I have set up my new office. My own room dedicated to me, my gifts, my valued clients and the changes that await all of us. This office symbolises a separate part of my life… separate from the farming business. This is my space, my personal inspiration and my business motivation.

I want to share with you, this photo today… taken only 2 months ago on my farm. Still suffering from the effects of drought, yet the oats are growing despite the odds. For me, this photo symbolises my personal journey. I had the odds stacked against me, but I continued to grow. I did what I needed to do. The beautiful sunlight is captured in this photo, shining that healing light upon me.

Rural Reflection #23…

image subject to copyright

We all need to find that one thing that brings us happiness and pure joy… and share that gift with the world. Recognise what is against you and make choices to move forward for the betterment of you, those you love and those that need you in the wider community.

The greatest joy in this world is when we can reach out and help someone else. This gives us purpose and a vision on our horizon. I am no different from you all. You too have the capability to find yourself and chase your dreams.

Believe in yourself and believe you will do it. And you will!

Take care, Karen.

“Nothing can dim the light that shines from within.”

~ Maya Angelou

Learning by Relaxation with Modern Hypnosis

July 16, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 3 Comments

It is true… I am now a qualified hypnotherapist.

Our brains are like a sponge and they never stop learning. As you know, I love personal growth, learning and connecting with people. Helping individuals to feel better and to live better… brings me passion and delight. To be able to inspire others and change people’s lives for the better… is simply exhilarating.

On my learning journey, I have just spent 3 days at a Modern Hypnosis Workshop with Sharon Jurd and the SMJ Coaching Institute. Learning the craft of hypnotherapy, the power of relaxation and the benefits of making life changes. A technique that brings beautiful results for the client… ending a long period of dissatisfaction in a specific way.

Most people do not understand hypnosis, mainly due to unrealistic stage shows and the fear of not being in control. This is a BIG MYTH. Hypnosis is an awake state, but a state of deep relaxation. It is an opportunity for imagination, visualisation and exercise for the mind. Hypnosis allows a connection with our unconscious mind to make positive changes in our lives.

During the hypnosis training, I learned in-depth knowledge about the operation of our unconscious mind and its purpose in storing and organising memories. The unconscious mind brilliantly allows our body to operate, breathe and move without consciously thinking about how to do such natural tasks. It also maintains our body’s integrity and listens intently to what we tell it.

The unconscious mind fascinates me… how it protects us and is like our best friend. We have to learn to listen and be kind to it. Our personal values are embedded within our unconscious mind and this is what is important to us individually.

Hypnosis is a natural state of mind that everybody will experience every single day. A naturally occurring trance state is experienced, just before you fall asleep at night and just upon waking of a morning when eyes are still closed but you are aware of your surrounds. Hypnosis is the bypass of the critical faculty of our minds.

Accepting selective thinking and concepts through suggestion to improve one’s life, is the real purpose of hypnosis. Hypnosis is practiced with integrity and is consistent with your values.

When under hypnosis, a person will not accept or do any suggestion that they do not want to. The client is always in control. The hypnotherapist is merely a facilitator in guiding their client’s required outcome successfully.

Hypnosis is a very old technique, practiced under a number of alternate labels throughout history. But it was not until 1958 that hypnotherapy was officially recognised by the American Medical Association. The development and implementation of hypnotherapy over thousands of years has led to many changes. Modern hypnosis is used for deep relaxation, to assist medically and to make essential lifestyle changes.

I am now a qualified Hypnotherapy Practitioner, after having completed the required training and I have acquired specific skills. I am certified in hypnosis for performance enhancement for sport, personal and business success, weight loss and healthier choices, bad habits such as nail-biting or overeating, and to quit smoking. Also, the rapid relaxation technique, arm levitation, and anchoring emotions… are wonderful tools to improve lives. I have also learned pain control hypnosis, but a referral from a GP is required to first rule out serious medical conditions.

My first client spoke of the amazing process of hypnosis, the desired results and how this will change her life significantly. As a qualified hypnotherapist, it is very gratifying to hear of how significantly you have contributed to a person’s life and changed it for the better.

Hypnosis is only for those people that want to change something within their lives. There needs to be a conscious commitment to pursue change, for the unconscious mind to fully connect with the decision and the suggested hypnotic process.

I look forward to implementing my certified hypnosis training and developing more skills in the future. Learning is always an on-going process to keep up-to-date and extend your ability to provide respected services to the community.

The learning experience was very enjoyable, full of passion and motivation with our master trainer Sharon Jurd and her crew. It was a pleasure to learn in her welcoming and empowering environment with other like-minded and passionate people. I was fortunate to be able to share this beautiful learning encounter with my sister-in-law. We were able to catch-up on family updates, laugh together and learn together. A beautiful weekend on the Gold Coast was enjoyed.

Take care, Karen.

“Surround yourself with people

who are going to lift you higher.”

~ Oprah Winfrey

Taking Control of Business and Empowering Life

June 23, 2019June 23, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

An incredibly inspiring 2-day event with knowledgable businesswomen, Katie Godden and Sharon Jurd, leaves motivation within me. Motivation to take control, stop procrastinating and put the success strategies learned into action. My personal experience was shared with other business attendees.

Katie Godden, a mindset strategist, business and life coach, is based in Tamworth NSW. Her passion has given country business people access to business strategies and techniques shared at specialised events, usually held in capital cities. This weekend business owners had an incredible opportunity to learn skills from an enthusiastic and empowering businesswoman, Katie Godden, right here in Tamworth NSW.

Together with Sharon Jurd, an extremely knowledgable growth strategist and success coach, based on the Gold Coast QLD, they shared business strategies to bring success in business. Sharon Jurd is incredibly experienced with a passion to help people succeed.

These two extraordinary women shared their unique knowledge and wisdom with business attendees. Information learned ranged from management of databases to strategic alliances and client relationship building. The networking opportunities gained by all attendees were appreciated.

I enjoyed the strategies of developing rapport and connecting with clients. The language predicates of visual, auditory and kinaesthetic… I found very interesting. Sensory acuity and personality profiling really intrigued me. Client satisfaction and staff interaction is very important in business.

SMART goal setting was fine-tuned and understood to be very specific. Personal values and business values were concluded for each of us, and an opportunity to re-shuffle our values to be in alignment the best possible way.

Limiting beliefs are the foggy cloud that dampens our positive thought process, so the strategies to challenge and remove these limiting obstacles will be a wonderful technique for all. It is us that puts these limiting beliefs in our own path to restrict our opportunities. It will be a relief to challenge these restricting thoughts.

Value levels thinking, a psychological model of a person’s development that influences their behaviour and views. This introduced an interesting concept from basic human survival mode through to the greater universe.

Setting boundaries for business interactions and expectations will prove to make life less chaotic and work more effectively in both business and our personal life. I look forward to implementing my boundaries and time management skills.

The idea of stepping outside our comfort zone has always been a little daunting, but this new concept learned, of expanding our comfort zone is simply amazing. The visual concept of still feeling somewhat comfortable, yet excited for a challenge, is positively accepted in my world.

These new strategies and thought-provoking notions have enabled me to think a little differently, implement some helpful business ideas, add value to my business and be passionate about the direction my business is going. Helping people is what I love to do.

I was extremely grateful to have these two businesswomen present engaging content and useful business strategies at this 2-day event. If you get the opportunity, I would recommend Katie Godden and Sharon Jurd for business events and life coaching.

The kindness, motivation and expertise of these two unique women, drive me to succeed in my business and my life. I was even brought to tears today, when they offered a great deal for a magnitude of future events for the business attendees. The generosity and heartfelt desire to help others and motivate… I did see first-hand.

My tears flowed when I realised these women had a passion to give support, business direction and advice to us. Truly remarkable women! I felt a connection and look forward to future workshops and seminars with both of them. Thank you ladies!

Take care, Karen.

“Gaining knowledge, is the first step to wisdom.

Sharing it, is the first step to humanity.”

~ Author Unknown

Rural Reflections #19

May 5, 2019April 30, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 6 Comments

Opportunities are all around us to get involved with our community, seek new connections and make a real difference in this world. To see the bigger picture and what you can offer… will also bring you personal contentment.

The Country Women’s Association of NSW (CWA) gives me a strong sense of community with valuable knowledge, friendships and a mutual commitment to improving people’s lives. Today marks the start of another Annual State Conference, this year held in Albury NSW on the Murray River.

With the drought over-powering my strength on the farm and a need to so something more purposeful at the moment and restore a sense of life control… I arrive here enthusiastic and ready to be enlightened. The opportunity to be a delegate at this Conference and represent our region with the policy-making decisions of a strong women’s organisation… is an honour and something I look forward to.

As I left home feeling somewhat excited about the CWA business meeting events to follow and connecting with a larger community… I also felt a little sad to be leaving all responsibilities upon my husband to solely deal with drought-feeding livestock and the hopeful anticipation of rainfall.

Fortunately, I do have a supportive husband and he encourages me to take these opportunities within my life. He understands what makes me happy and allows me to grow as a person. I do know if I feel strong, in control and have a sense of purpose… then I can be supportive to the rest of my family.

I always think of that image of a “jug of water” representing our own self… when we run out of water, we have nothing left to give another. We need to refuel first, so we have something within ourselves to give to the other person. Knowing when you need to look after yourself, seems to be the forgotten issue, especially for women.

The photo I share with you today, reflects upon my escape from farming life as I travel down the road heading for another opportunity. The photo was taken about 10km from our property heading towards town. Every time I go to town, this is a part of my journey.

Rural Reflection #19…

image subject to copyright

I like this photo because of the beautiful coloured sky with the blue, pinks and mauve. The sky looked so lovely that I stopped to capture this image. I also like the contrast of the cultivated paddock and the dry grass along the roadside. The cloud configuration reflects the beauty of our natural country landscape.

So as I anticipate my involvement within the CWA State Conference, I also appreciate my roots back home. An appreciation for our beautiful country, the support of family and the new opportunities that await us all.

Take a look around you… acknowledge and appreciate what you already have in your life and have the courage to pursue personal growth by accepting new opportunities that spark your own interest.

Take care, Karen.

“Alone, we can do so little;

Together, we can do so much.”

~ Helen Keller

How To Be Successful In Your Life?

April 23, 2019April 23, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / Leave a comment

Society tells us that we go through childhood, get an education, follow a career, add a family and life is successful… in that order. NO… this is certainly not true, as life does not fit inside that small perfectly-shaped box.

Everybody is different and has the ability to pave their own path and make their own successful journey. Tackling life in the correct order… making the correct choices… as to how we live our lives.

“Correct” in who’s eyes?

Sometimes we need to approach life with a different perspective… do things out of the ordinary… as a means of living up to our own standards and not those of everybody else. Be unique and follow your own purpose in life.

In our early years of childhood, we were unique individuals and free to explore the world around us… without inhibitions or feelings of inferiority.

Then FEAR sets in… with the pressure of our peers and our need to fit in. We question ourselves and the barriers are formed. These limiting beliefs are then carried with us into adulthood.

The toughest walls are those we put in front of ourselves. When we realise this, life can change dramatically.

Rather than stepping outside of your comfort zone… look at expanding your comfort zone. This thought seems to give me a feeling of not being exposed and being in control of my own choices. I can take baby steps or a great leap… but I control how far I am willing to expand my comfort zone.

It is never too late… to try something new… and give it go. Many people are discovering their talents, later in life and that is OK. We pave our own path and are capable of making our own choices.

I admit… my aspirations at 18, was to get married and have 2 kids… as family was more important to me, than a career. This did not fit in well with my Careers Advisor at high school. But I did work in the banking industry, got married at 19, first baby at 20, then another 18 months later.

I did what I wanted to do. I raised 2 great sons now living independently in their early 20’s. I have been married for 25 years this year and I wouldn’t change a thing.

My point is that each of us follow our own path and believe in what we do… living with purpose. But it must be our own purpose.

Now as an empty-nester, I concentrate on the next phase of my life. I just started a new business, separate from the farming industry. I offer freelance writing & administration services. And I also have this blog for conveying my inspirational messages in writing.

I didn’t achieve success in the correct order according to many people… but it was correct for me. We just have to believe in the choices we make, take the responsibility when things don’t quite work out and then move on.

Inspiration surrounds us every day bringing us great opportunities. We hear about famous people bringing inspiration into the lives of many. But you don’t have to be famous, we are just everyday people making a difference in this world.

Look around you… there are people in your circle… family, friends or colleagues… that will inspire you. Be that person that inspires others… by being true to yourself and showing kindness and compassion to others.

We all bring something special to the table, possibly without even realising it. We are not famous, just everyday people, inspiring others in an extraordinary way.

We never stop learning and our personalities will evolve through time as we continue to be the better person. Strive for personal growth and you will see the success reign upon you in many aspects of your lives.

Work hard for what you want, for what makes you happy and what makes you feel whole. Being true to yourself is where the success starts. So hold your head up high and walk proud.

Take care, Karen.

“Success is the result of perfection,

hard work, learning from failure,

loyalty, and persistence.”

~ Colin Powell

Rural Reflections #14

March 24, 2019 / Country Heart Spark / 3 Comments

It may have only been 10mm of rain, but an overall feeling of contentedness… as the rainwater temporarily heals our minds and replenishes our soul. What is it with that unique fresh smell after rainfall that makes our hearts lighter? That noise as each drop falls, cleansing our thoughts and easing our worries. We see an image of freshness and passionately see a vision of hope. The smell with a crispness in the clean air as the dust is washed away from our hearts.

Diverse landscapes are a common feature across the New England and North West region of NSW in Australia. This region is located in the north of the state and west of the Great Dividing Range. This region covers a total area of about 99,145 square kilometres or 12.4% of NSW and is home to 186,200 people.

Agricultural land in the New England and North West region occupies 79,364 square kilometres or 80% of the region. The agricultural sector in the region includes important commodities, based on the gross value of agricultural production, were cattle ($687 million), cotton ($650 million) and wheat ($482 million). These commodities contributed to 60% of the total value of agricultural production in the region.

Rocky ridges are very common in this region along with rich basalt soils. Our property alone has quite a diverse array of landscapes, vegetation and farmland. From red and chocolate basalt soils, river loams, to a few granite outcrops and steeper vegetated valleys. The Australian agricultural regions can be very divergent.

Today I share with you a photo taken last week following 10mm of rain. The only rain we had seen for almost 2 months. This is a part of my view from the kitchen window every day. I like this photo as it fills me with a sense of hope that the rain in the eastern hills may come again. This is a rocky ridge near the boundary of our property. The large rocks in this bull paddock show how disparate our terrain can be.

Rural Reflection #14…

image subject to copyright

There are 2 Hereford bulls grazing after the light shower of rain that settled the dust. This photo also overlooks a part of the neighbouring property and shows horses in a distant paddock in the background. We did not receive any more rain this week, but the feeling and smell of rain were temporarily relished.

This morning I have spent my time baking cakes and a slice for a CWA function. I do always enjoy my view from the kitchen window even when it is dry. I always find the beauty within an image and appreciate the smaller things in life.

I imagine myself sitting upon that large rock protruding from the earth… relaxing and appreciating the beautiful views around us. One day… the drought will break and nutritious green pastures will surround us again.

Until then, I will still focus on the beauty that remains within my life. I still have a wonderful family to love, a passion for writing to share, a motivation for personal growth and a vision to inspire others every day in their lives.

Take care, Karen.

“Rain has healing powers.

It can wash away your worries

and cleanse your soul.”

~ Author Unknown.

Who am I?

November 13, 2018November 13, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Hi, my name is Karen and I am a little shy but friendly. I am a first-time blogger and have been setting up my new blog on farming challenges and the inspiration within my journey in life. Undecided and hesitant if I wanted to remain anonymous or be up front and reveal myself. I stand by what I write and am sincere and honest… so here I am.

I bit about me… I have strong family values and a strong work ethic. Reliability, honesty and self-motivation drives me. My life is devoted to my husband and our 2 adult sons. Their wellbeing is my number one priority. I value the importance of inner harmony and have a passion for personal growth and development.

I grew up on a small farm on the Mid North Coast and have owned properties in the New England and Central West regions before settling on a farm west of Tamworth. Involved with farming all my life, now in my 40’s and children all grown up, it is time for my own passion to be shared. The quiet peaceful lifestyle of farming is satisfying and the value of the hard work on-farm is significant.

Passion for the future of the agricultural industry is at the forefront of my mind and it is my intention to promote this and the connection to all communities nation-wide. I feel strongly that Australian’s care about our domestic food chain and sustaining the farming industry.

I am a member of the Country Women’s Association of NSW, the largest women’s organisation in Australia, and I support their aims to improve the lives of women and their families. Their vision resonates with me, in providing a forum for the voice of all women, encouraging the viability of rural communities and lobbying for change. Values of goodwill, friendship, support and understanding is important to me.

My real passion is personal growth and development, and an inner enthusiasm to inspire others through listening and sharing. By using my writing and this Blog, I intend to encourage others along their life journey as well.

For more information and to visit my website Country Heart Spark, please click here

If you would like to receive my blogs by email or contact me, please click here

To follow me on Facebook, please click here

I hope you enjoy the ride with me.

Take care, Karen

Personal Growth & Imperfections

November 12, 2018 / Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

That little phrase “personal growth” can be empowering but it can also make one feel a little anxious or uneasy. To not explore what personal growth actually is, creates this endless search for happiness, clarity of mind, creative expression and a sense of inner calmness.

Personal growth or self-improvement is inspiring and will emerge if we just stop. Stop searching and stop trying to be a better, calmer or nicer person and just allow our own mind to express itself. To find that contentment within will enable us to be happier, more productive and efficient.

Perfection is a myth and an unrealistic goal. I have always been a perfectionist in my life, which leads to disappointment, as perfection is an assumption of no faults and flawless results. Perfection is not human and not what we should aspire to. Sometimes we strive so hard for perfection that we forget that imperfection is happiness. There would be no need for love in our lives if perfection was at all possible.

Our potential for growth, change and understanding is endless, by allowing our mind to reveal its true self. By letting go of the past and the burden it holds upon us, as well as to set free the expectations of the future, the mind will open to the possibilities within. Trust yourself… the answer lies within you… it is time to reveal the greatest version of yourself. You are worth it!

Take care, Karen

“Strive for continuous improvement, instead of perfection.”

~ Kim Collins