Release the "Stamp of Approval"

What's happening in the collective skies for you? I'd like to share some thoughts about what's been weighing on my heart, especially in light of this cosmic conjunction at the tail end of an intense eclipse season. The lunar eclipse in Taurus at 5 degrees on Saturday, October 28, 2023 was exactly crossing over my natal placement of Chiron, the "wounded healer," so there has been much resonance with my journey of healing, primarily within myself. I've sensed the inner tension of a revolutionary disruption to my past status quo way of living and our collective collusion with violence, aggression, and judgment of what is valuable, rather than recognizing the inherent worth in every sentient and insentient being. There's an urgent call to change and to lift the veil of self-doubt and self-sabotage while shedding the past ways of operating that have been complicit in harm, toxicity, and trauma-inducing patterns.

In a world that often emphasizes external validation, the relentless pursuit of the "stamp of approval" can consume our lives. Recovering from a system that socializes us to fit predefined molds, particularly in education and higher education, can be a lengthy healing journey. We're taught to measure our worth based on external standards embedded in institutions that reinforce societal expectations. As a result, we often find ourselves seeking affirmation and acknowledgment from external sources, sometimes at the expense of our well-being. This journey is riddled with the pitfalls of people-pleasing, overcommitting, and a lack of boundaries, leaving us feeling stretched thin and disconnected from the wisdom of our inner selves.

But what if we could break free from this cycle? What if we could invite heart-centered healing and embrace a humanity-centered leadership style rooted in consciousness and the wisdom of well-being? What if we could transform our workplaces into spaces that nurture our souls?

I recommend calling in "blissipline," especially on your days off, where you create a devotional practice of intentionally prioritizing well-being, rejuvenation, and restoration. Let's explore some actionable steps to release external validation and shift towards heart-centered leadership:

Self-Reflection: Begin by looking within. Reflect on the sources of external validation you've been relying on. What fuels your need for approval? Acknowledge and honor these feelings, as self-awareness is the first step towards transformation.

Set Boundaries: Establish clear, consistent, and healthy boundaries, both in your personal and professional life. Boundaries are essential for maintaining your well-being and preventing overcommitment. Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively.

Practice Saying "No": Learn to say "no" when necessary. Understand that it's not a sign of weakness, but a demonstration of self-respect and self-care. Prioritize your commitments and be selective in what you take on.

Cultivate Self-Compassion: Replace the need for external validation with self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer to a friend. Embrace your imperfections and remember that your worth is not defined by the opinions of others.

Connect with Your Purpose: Reconnect with your core values and your true purpose. Understand what truly motivates you and align your actions with your authentic self. When you're driven by your inner calling, external validation becomes less important.

Seek Feedback Mindfully: Instead of constantly seeking approval, seek feedback mindfully. Choose a few trusted mentors or colleagues whose opinions you value. Consider their feedback as a means for growth, not validation.

Foster a Conscious Workplace: Promote a culture of consciousness in your workplace, where employees are encouraged to be present, compassionate, and authentic. Advocate for open communication and well-being initiatives that prioritize the whole person, not just the worker.

Embrace Humanity-Centered Leadership: Lead with empathy, recognizing that your team members are human beings with their own struggles and desires. Prioritize their well-being, creating a workplace where everyone feels seen and heard.

On this day of intentionally inviting blissipline, let's remember that transformation begins with our willingness to release the "stamp of approval" and invite heart-centered healing. By embarking on this journey, we not only improve our well-being but also create a ripple effect, transforming the workplace into a space that values humanity, consciousness, and the wisdom of well-being. The power to lead from the heart is within us, waiting to be awakened and shared with the world.

???? #HeartCenteredLeadership #WellBeingAtWork #ConsciousLeadership