empower Archives - Workplace Bullying Support

How to Find Strength When You are Being Abused

May 29, 2016/0 Comments/in Bullying/by Dawn Westmoreland

Dawn and the Tree Have you ever noticed a newly planted tree that has been staked by a landscaper? You may think that the stakes will support the tree in the event of heavy winds. In most cases, the newly planted trees do not need to be staked. It’s an unnecessary “extra” step that some landscapers perform. Unless the tree is super “top heavy”, most newly planted trees do not need staking. Why?

Trees have a hormone called “auxin”, which helps play a key role in the direction of a plants growth. When a plant is staked, it can affect the caliper and taper of a plant—basically it can affect the tree’s growth. Where am I going with this? I like to compare “growth” of humans and trees because both share one thing—strength through adversity. I am also a horticulturist and love plants/people.

When the winds blow the trees around, the trees are busy producing Auxin hormones to help it become stronger. As humans, you can also become stronger if you look at your negative experiences and conquer the “lessons”. Discern on the “gift” each lesson gave you. Do you need to love yourself more? Show yourself more respect? Set healthier boundaries in your life?

You become more empowered when you see the negative “patterns” in your life that are repeating themselves over and over. Perhaps you are attracting more people in your life that treat you badly or you always make bad decisions. Most scientists and others will tell you that everything is “energy”. Like energy attracts “like” energy. Pay attention to the thoughts in your head. Up to 90% of your belief system is in your subconscious. You may have learned to give and give to others (with no boundaries) until it hurt, from a parent. Perhaps you were told you would not amount to anything in life because a parent was using “reverse psychology” to motivate you.

Without realizing it, today, you are attracting “patterns” of lessons you need to master for your own growth. Yes—they can be very painful. Who wants to be mistreated? No one. It’s up to you to take 100% responsibility for your life. When you take responsibility to get the help you need—your life can change for the better. Let me share a story with you. I was in a long-term alcoholic relationship 20 years ago. I went to an open AA meeting for help and noticed everyone was very happy and smiling. But, I felt broken and could not handle all the emotions in this small room. I quickly ran out and ended up in a large cleaning closet in this building. Closing the closet door behind me, I was mortified and began crying.

First, I could not escape the “happy” people and second, I was in a cleaning closet for crying out loud! I heard the message, “you belong in that meeting room” and I slowly walked back in that room for the moral support I needed. Everyone pretended they did not see me in the cleaning closet. I realized I had a long way to go to help myself become healthier and whole again. I had become “sicker” than the narcissistic alcoholic and needed help.

I was dealing with a narcissistic alcoholic in my life who nearly killed me in his “blackouts”. I had fought him off me many times and I knew he would kill me if I did not get help. He was very strong and it took all my energy to fight him off me. He was in denial. I was truly “sick” and it was affecting the quality of my life. Working 12 – 14 hours daily was my escape from this madness. I became a big “overachiever” in the Air Force. It was my escape.

After the open AA meeting, one of the scruffiest men I had ever met in my life, asked me to follow him to his house to meet his wife. There was something about that man that made me trust him. I followed behind his old beaten up car. Suspecting we were about to arrive at a trailer park, I mentally told myself it would be alright. The house I arrived at was a multi-million dollar home at Mexico Beach in North Florida. I put my hands over my face in disgrace and embarrassment again. I had gotten another good lesson in one evening. Never judge a book by its cover. This man was not only very wise—he was very wealthy too.

This beautiful home was the house I passed every day while walking on the beach. I had found solitude and grounding in walking in the sand and breathing the salt air.

Well, the scruffy man who came to my rescue was a retired Army helicopter pilot and his wife was an accomplished author. Lessons! I tell you. When you ask for help, whether through praying or with intention, you will get what you need, but not always how you expect it to come.

I only had a few months with this man and the open AA group as I was in the Air Force and about to transfer to the Black Hills in South Dakota. I was open to helping myself and it came in a peculiar way. Be open to getting the help you deserve. Take 100% accountability in becoming healthier and happier in your life. Claim your personal power by breaking the patterns of negativity in your life. Slow down and listen to your “inner knowing” that is telling you he or she is not the “right one”. Trust the gut-feeling that you should walk away from a situation that will dis-empower you. Say “no” to narcissistic people and keep walking to a more healthy and empowered life. Get professional help if you need it. You will find a way to afford it or you can reach out to www.211.org, which is a United Way program that offers many resources in each state that can support you on your journey. You deserve to healthy and happy!

If you need consulting or coaching to support you becoming healthier and more empowered–reach out to me at www.DawnMarieWestmoreland.com

Prozac or a Life Coach?

April 6, 2016/0 Comments/in Uncategorized/by Dawn Westmoreland

Dawn at her birthday party! If you had the choice, would you choose to take Prozac for “mild” depression or would you hire a Life Coach? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression. It is a leading cause of disability. When it comes to what creates depression, you may want to consider the benefits of Prozac or any other mind-altering pharmaceutical or what paybacks you will get from working with a Life Coach.

It’s important to listen to your doctor and follow sage advice. If you are dealing with depression—you may need pharmaceutical medicine to manage your depression. It may help you to find “stability” in your life or to find a way to cope with your depression. But—what if you could see how you have created your depression through hiring a Life Coach? Sometimes you need another person to show you how you have become your own “worst bully” in your life.

For example, if you allow others to mistreat your or disrespect you, this could be causing you to have depression. Working with a Life Coach who is well-suited to support your needs and goals can help you to “break” some habits that aren’t for you highest good. See my blog on hiring the right Life coach: http://dawnmariewestmoreland.com/2015/09/27/five-tips-before-hiring-a-life-coach/

If you have allowed yourself to be bullied by others, your self-esteem and self-love may be at an all-time low. No one wants to be bullied. It’s plain awful. Often times, bullies target people who they feel are weak and easy to bully. The harm—mental and physical can put you in a state of mind that is hard to overcome. Every person feels their story is powerful to them. Their perception is real to them.

One out of four women has been sexually molested, while one out of six men has experienced this also according to “Our Voice”, which is a non-profit organization in Asheville, NC that serves sexual assault abuse through counseling, advocacy, and education. If you have experienced sexual abuse and have not been able to heal from it, you may be feeling insecure, have low self-esteem or self-love. You may not mix well with others or you tend to be quieter than others. Workplace bullies pick up on these tendencies and prey on those who they think are weak.

What if you could learn to love and respect yourself? Chances are that you would have “healthier boundaries” with others. You may learn how to be an “observer”, instead of an “absorber” when you deal with narcissistic bullies in the workplace. Learning how to be a non-player in other people’s drama is very empowering and liberating. Sometimes the greatest teachers are the narcissistic bully.

You can learn how to stand up to workplace bullying and you can find that with the right Life Coach. You will never find it by taking Prozac. Now, don’t get me wrong—there is no “shame” in taking care of yourself and being on medication if you really need it. Please make sound decisions when dealing with your health and well-being. Listen to your doctor.

However, if you don’t learn how to set healthy boundaries in your life and to truly love yourself, you will probably be dealing with negative circumstances, over and over in your life. It’s time to set yourself free from your “old stories”. It’s time to own your “stories”, instead of your stories “owning” you. Consider working with a Life Coach and learn how you can break your “chains” of dis-empowerment and live a better life.

Many Life Coaches have been in your “shoes” before and that is why they are attracted to helping others who have similar circumstances as they have in their life. Some Life Coaches have worked on themselves and improved their own self-development before reaching out to help others. There is nothing like being stuck in the “mud” and then overcoming the circumstances.

If you can learn how to become empowered, it’s like being taught how to fish. Instead of someone giving you fish to eat, you learn to catch your own fish. You become independent and trust yourself. You get the point. Claiming your personal power means holding yourself accountable to make wiser decisions and to get the help you deserve. Many of the famous spiritual leaders in our world have gone through massive “transformations” to become who they are today. They have been badly abused, they have overcome, and today, they are teaching others how to overcome.

In wrapping up, discern on which side of empowerment you want to be on—the side that keeps you weak and unhappy or the side that allows you to be the greatest version of you? I hope you choose happiness and being empowered because you deserve it.

If you want more tips on standing up to workplace bullying and empowerment, check out www.DawnMarieWestmoreland.com and be sure to follow Dawn Marie Westmoreland on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/HealingThymeSvcs You will learn how Dawn became a successful government “whistleblower” through her story and how she is helping to empower others to stand up to workplace bullying as a national speaker, author, coach and HR consultant.

Be a Winner by Being Authentically You

October 27, 2015/2 Comments/in Empowerment/by Dawn Westmoreland

We live in a culture that values “followers’, rather than leaders. It seems like “selfies” have gotten out of control and are rampant everywhere! While there is nothing wrong with having fun, there is an issue of always trying to “fit in” with the expectations of other people. Why not celebrate your own uniqueness and talents? You pay a high price by trying to “fit in” with others. You lose your identity and authenticity when you always try to follow the herd.

For years, I had a sign, “Mavericks Don’t Follow the Herd”. It reminded me that it’s ok to be a unique individual and to not always try to “fit in” with others. Have you noticed that when you are authentic, you attract other like-minded people like yourself? It’s ok if people walk away from you or do not engage with you. They are probably not your “tribe” or people. I know I have spent years trying to be liked and to fit in with people. It was frustrating and mind-boggling to say the least, when people did not “get me” or understand me. Today, I surround myself with positive like-minded people who are my “tribe”. They are very different from me, but they like me for being authentic and unpretentious. It just feels good to be with people who support you and love you for who you are in this world.

You know what you are passionate about and what excites you in your life! You probably have ideas that you want to see come to fruition. You are meant to be engaged in activities, friends, and a career that supports your highest purpose on this earth. You must listen to your “gut feelings” or intuition that is pushing you to be authentic and happy! Oprah Winfrey, one of the greatest hosts in America, has mentioned in interviews that she did not “fit in” when she worked at a TV station in Baltimore, MD. She was removed as the evening news co-anchor in April 1977 and ended up as the co-host of a morning talk show, People Are Talking. Oprah immediately knew that she was on the right path and where her own uniqueness would “shine”. The rest is history—Oprah is well known by many people. She is respected for her soulful interviews and philanthropy to make other people’s lives better.

There is a natural course to being authentic and fulfilling your soul’s purpose. When we allow ourselves to be unique, we are able to connect with other like-minded people and resources that align us in offering our “gifts” and talents with others through our work and our personal lives. Being authentic and being the real “you” creates honesty, self-esteem, joy, inner peace, creativity, and unconditional love for yourself.

Stop comparing yourself to others. They have their own “uniqueness” and you have your own. Strive to recognize that others have different “gifts” than you do and they may have skills that you wish you have, but don’t have. They may even be further down their career path than you are or they are more spiritually advanced because they have conscientiously invested in their own self-growth. The spiritual message of being jealous of others is that which you are jealous of– is your own unrecognized potential. It really is that simple. Don’t compare yourself to others. Be “You” and shine your own light.

Think of the “mighty oak tree that begins as an acorn. The acorn cannot be any other tree than an oak tree. With all the right conditions—sun, rain and nutrients from the soil, the tree becomes stronger and stronger. We all have our own personal destiny—to be authentic and live the life our soul demands. It’s my wish that everyone embraces their own uniqueness!

If you are wanting to empower yourself, now it the perfect time. Grab hold of my book, “The Empowered Whistleblower”: A Practical and Spiritual Path to Personal Power” at http://getbook.at/Dawn It’s my own story of being severely dis-empowered, me blowing the whistle on my “victimhood”, overcoming, and how I am empowering others today as an anti-bullying coach, author, speaker, and HR consultant.

Why Fear is Important in our Lives

September 7, 2015/2 Comments/in Uncategorized/by Dawn Westmoreland

Why is it that we dislike being “fearful”? Why do we allow it to hold us “hostage” in our lives? I am not writing about fear of “rational” things like poisonous snakes and matters of safety. More like, living small because of the “inner bully” in ourselves that wants to keep us small and protected by not living our soul’s calling with great joy. Often times our “inner critic” will try to serve us in ways that are not for our highest good. For example, when I began to train as a Life Coach, I knew that I was going to be doing work that I am passionate about, but I also was nervous about going “BIG” because I am an introvert. OK—an “extroverted” introvert to be more accurate.

Admitting raw and real stories about my past was the hardest thing for me to do, but yet, I do write and talk about them. I share with others about being sexually molested as a child, childhood/adult bullying, an alcoholic marriage, and landing in the Mental Health ward after dealing with two years of horrendous bullying for being a Veteran Affairs “Whistleblower”. As I wrote about these events in my book, there was a part of me that wanted to “hide” under the bed and not share these events with others. Part of me was fearful and it felt scary to be so authentic about these circumstances in my life. While these feelings were distressful and fearful to me, I received the message, “Yes, you can do this and you are going to help a lot of people by telling your story and how you overcame your own dis-empowerment”.

When I worked in the Midatlantic Consolidated Patient Accounting Center (MACPAC), which is a division of the Veteran Affairs in West Asheville, NC, I witnessed a lot of fearful people who were afraid to speak out about the nepotism (illegal hiring of family & friends) and other prohibited personnel actions that were going on in this VA agency. It made me sick to see the fear on these people’s faces and I knew that when I turned in the management of the MACPAC, that I would be paying a high price. I did it anyway. Yes—I was fearful, but in the large picture of that event, I knew that it was important to change the unfair hiring practices and expose the bullying that happened when conscientious “whistleblowers” like myself turn these illegal practices in to government agencies that handle these matters.

I could have done nothing and then everything would remain the same in my former job, within the MACPAC. While feeling scared and knowing so many people would turn against me, I turned in my management to the Office of Special Counsel in Washington D.C. and to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in Charlotte, NC. Why was I fearful? Because I turned in over 15 people for prohibited personnel actions and they ganged up on me very quickly. While being fearful, I still held them accountable and “settled” with the Veteran Affairs in March 2014, without a “gag order”. Often I get asked how I can tell my story when I settled with the Veteran Affairs. I can tell my story because I refused to sign a settlement with the VA that would keep me quiet. The VA attorneys finally agreed to this settlement, two days before the EEOC hearing. Moving through all of my fear made me a “victor” in the end.

We are always going to feel “fear”. It is what we do with it that counts. We can stay stuck or we can move through it. How we deal with “fear” is important. Do we listen to our “inner critic” that says to play small, stay silent, stay hidden and don’t take chances? Or do we listen to our soul that says to keep moving through our “fears” and to follow our soul’s purpose for being on this earth? We get to choose how we deal with fear. The reason why fear is so important in our life is because we get to “play” bigger in our lives if we move through our fears. First, fear can inspire us to take positive action. Fear can push us to take the actions we need in our life and create wonderful opportunities. Second, we can become “liberated” when we move through our fears and accomplish worthy goals. It can push us out of our comfort zone and created a new life for us if we allow it to happen. Third, fear can build our confidence because when we do something positive that makes us fearful, it can make us stronger and more confident. So, anytime we are dealing with “fear”, consider what side of fear we want to be on— the “empowered” side or the “victim” side. For I am not letting the “inner critic” in my head win. I am heading to the Vancouver area to do a workshop on “Overcoming Fear” with my friend, Wendy McClelland on Sept 26^th, 2015. I am hoping you will want to become more empowered and live the life you are supposed to live on this earth.

If you would like to learn more about “overcoming” your old “stories” and moving through fear, check out my book, “The Empowered Whistleblower: A Practical and Spiritual Path to Personal Power” at http://getbook.at/Dawn You can also get a complimentary copy of my first chapter at www.TheEmpoweredWhistleblower.com

“Loving the Unlovable”–tips on empowerment

March 23, 2015/0 Comments/in Empowerment/by Dawn Westmoreland

What a title! Can you relate? I sure can! I bet you know of someone in your life that drives you crazy and you would rather avoid them, then deal with their trauma and drama. When this person(s) enters the room, you feel your blood boil, your stomach cramp or you feel nauseous because this person can be very manipulative or narcistic. They may even be an “energy vampire” too, the kind of person that “drains” your energy with their presence and behavior, I have dealt with this experience myself and use to lose a lot of sleep over the rantings and manipulative behavior of a “energy vampire”. This person drove me crazy with rage and disgust because I felt they were continuously taking advantage of a loved one.

I realized that my “clairsentience”, which is intuition in the form of emotional input, gut feeling or physical feeling and my “Claircognizance”, which is when intuitive information just pops into your head, was developing and I had a sense of “knowing” about things and people. It drove me nuts and I wanted others to experience these insights like I did. We all have intuitive gifts. They are different for each person, but we all have intuitive gifts. It’s a matter of accepting these “gifts” and be open to them too. Once you are, be ready for your “gifts”. These tools are invaluable if used correctly and they can be of great benefit in your personal life and business. I don’t claim to be psychic, but have different levels of intuitive “gifts” and I am grateful for them. I love using my “gifts” to help others.

Getting back to the “unlovable” people in your life. It has taken me many years to realize that these people can be the greatest “spiritual teachers” in your life. I have suffered and anguished over these kinds of people, until I was able to “let go” and trust that there is a reason for “unlovable” people in my life. They can teach you patience, standing up for yourself, and trusting that they are in your life for a “divine” reason. They can bring you closer to God or whatever source you are close to and they can also provide the best lessons in life. The “unlovable” are in your life for a reason—take time to discern over this and realize you have the opportunity of improving your spirituality and personal growth. You get to choose and life is all about choices. I continually repeat this in most of my blogs.

The “unlovable” can come into your loved ones lives to teach them lessons and even you. Since “like” attracts “like”, it can bring a narcistic/manipulative person to a person who has low self-esteem and may continually get treated with dis-respect. Once you are able to raise your energy levels and find self-respect, you will notice that the people in your life are “matching” your energy levels and your self-esteem. That is why it is so important to work on self-development so you can experience the best relationships with others in your life. Until then, you must set healthy “boundaries” in your life. That simply means that you cannot allow others to dis-respect you and take advantage of you. I love Doreen Virtue’s new book, “Assertiveness for Earth Angels”. I have read this book twice and highly recommend it to others who deal with “unlovable” people. Once you know how to deal with all kinds of people, life gets less messy and uncomplicated. Until you stand up for yourself and show your own self some R.E.S.P.E.C.T., you may find yourself repeating old behaviors that attract the “unlovable” in your life.

Now, I know we cannot pick our family members, but we can choose our friends very wisely. The five people we hang out with the most each day will have a profound effect on you. They will affect you personally, financially, and spiritually. Don’t beat yourself up on past experiences with “unlovable” people. Just learn the “lessons”, become more empowered and never stop growing—spiritually. The worst people in my life have helped me to get closer to God and improve my own spirituality. Now, that is empowering! The “unlovable” can be loved, but sometimes it may have to be at a distance and with a lot of praying for ease and grace to be in your life. Just remember they teach you many things in your life. They are not a challenge to you, but an opportunity to learn and grow. So, let it happen!

Who is Your Best Friend?

March 17, 2015/0 Comments/in Empowerment/by Dawn Westmoreland

Is the reflection in the mirror your best friend or worst ? I hope it is your best friend. There may be times that you think another person may be your enemy, but often times, the worst enemy can be yourself. I know this so well! No one has ever been meaner or mistreated me more than myself. The man who molested me as a child, the bullies in school, the alcoholic that nearly choked me to death, and the bullies who retaliated against me for blowing the whistle in the Veteran Affairs were not my worst enemies—I was my own worst enemy! That’s right. My past negative thoughts formed a belief system that I was not worthy and I was not deserving. Thank goodness, I can laugh at all my lessons I overcame from my past. Isn’t it time to “own” your old stories, instead of your stories “owning” you? Hell yeah!

You can purchase the “right” clothes and the “right” car (ok…truck in my case), but underneath it all, you have to love who you are and what you are doing in this world. If there is pain behind your superficial smile, it’s time to get to work and become an empowered and self-loving individual. Hire a coach and bust through those “blocks” in your life that keep you in fear and insecure. Don’t tell me you can’t afford a coach, unless you really cannot afford one. For I will tell you that you cannot afford not to hire a coach if you are miserable or stuck in your life. The cost of living a “small” life or not getting what you want out of your life is very costly. I saw the value in hiring a business coach and made appropriate changes in my life so that I could afford this investment in my life. You have to consciously invest in yourself and you must believe in yourself, more than others believe in you!

The benefits I received from hiring a coach was that I began to see why I had made “bad” choices in my life and I was able to “shift” consciously to align with a better belief system. There were quite a few “aha” moments and awareness that I could make better choices in my life. I took immediate action and “shifted” my life very quickly. The investment in myself, not only improved my practice, but it positively affected my spiritual and personal life. A coach can really help a client see what has been holding them back in their business and personal life.

Furthermore, a coach can help the client formulate a plan of action so that they are in alignment with reaching their goals and dreams. Often times, all you need is a change of view on your belief systems. If you are doing the same thing, over and over, and not getting the results you want—it’s time to do something different. Don’t you think? When I overcame my own old “stories” and claimed my personal power that is when people really noticed me and many new “doors” opened for me. There is so much goodness in this world and it’s time to realize it! Sound good? I would love seeing a lot of happy people on this earth. What a win-win! Bring it on!

I would love to help you realize your goals and “bust” through the walls that have confined you and have made you a prisoner of yourself. I help clients by phone, Skype, Google Hangouts or in person. First time clients can receive a $40.00 (45 minute) “break-though” to success strategy with me by contacting me at www.DawnMarieWestmoreland.com/contact By the way, be sure to be part of my newsletter community. I will be sending a complimentary copy of my first chapter in my book to everyone on my newsletter mail list. Join here: Dawn’s Newsletter

I will be sharing my own “story” of gloom and doom and how I “divorced” my victimhood. Today, I speak, write, “coach”, and get interviewed on radio/TV for the work I am doing to empower people. I am teaching workshops to help others become happier and liberated in their lives. I can also be reached to discuss interviews, workshops, coaching, and speaking engagements at Reach out to Dawn

Feed Your Confidence, Not Your Fear—Tips to empower your confidence

March 6, 2015/2 Comments/in Uncategorized/by Dawn Westmoreland

How often do you “buy-in” to your fear? Isn’t it self-defeating and un-empowering? It can be down-right crippling. If you continually feed your fears, you are going to stay “small” and deal with non-serving beliefs about yourself. Kick your fears to the curb! You will always feel some “fear” in your life. Fear is normal and can actually help empower you to make wise choices in your life. But, when fear controls your life and holds you hostage—it is time to divorce your fears. Now you may be thinking that this is not so easy, but let me assure you—you can do it if you want to release your fears.

For example, I talked to a lady recently who felt inspired to be a motivational speaker. In fact, she was dreaming about it. Now, your dreams can be a powerful sign for you to take action. Her fear of standing in front of others and what they would think of her was keeping her from taking the action to fulfill her dream. This happens to many people and some people can “break-through” it and others need a little assistance. Did you realize our fears can be a form of “gremlin” that can actually protect us? That’s right! Let me explain. In the case of this lady, her fear aka “gremlin” was protecting her from being embarrassed in front of others and people finding fault with her. In reality, this kind of “protection” keeps us small and a “leader in hiding”. For goodness sakes! There are people out there that really need you and your services. They are only going to connect and resonate with you.

If you are noticing how your life or your business is unfulfilling or that issues are coming up that are making you uncomfortable, that is probably your sign that you are not where you need to be right now. It’s time to step up and “break-through” your self-made wall that is keeping you on the side of unhappiness and fulfillment. Don’t be looking for others to rescue you. They have their own issues to work on. You empower yourself when you do the work needed to step into the person you want to be on this earth. Now, let’s kick that door down! If you only realized you are giving away your personal power when you are constantly seeking answers from others. You are your own “expert” in your journey of life. Why not follow your own inner guidance and trust that you can positively change your life. Are you ready to kick that door down?

First, realize that living “small” and playing “safe” may have protected you in the past from being embarrassed or dealing with critical people. Just own it and don’t judge yourself. It served you in the past. However, if you are really ready to move on and be more empowered, you must have a “talk” with your fear aka “gremlin” and tell it that it has served you well in the past and has protected you. You may even feel thankful for the protection it served you. But, you are ready and willing to spread your wings and get the training you want, join a toastmaster’s organization or speak up for a raise in your job now. Tell your fears or gremlin “thank you and to hit the road now”, because you feel protected in your knowledge that you are able to move forward and that your inner guidance is now going to empower you.

Second, keep some kind of record so you can later realize how far you have come with your own personal-growth. Often times people take things for granted and fail to realize that even little baby steps are steps of empowerment and lead you in the right direction on your journey. I find that the more things you express gratitude for, the more grateful experiences will pop into your life. This has been proven over and over again. I could share so many amazing opportunities that have entered my life because I express “gratitude” daily. The heart puts out more energy than the brain does. Let your appreciation for your personal self-growth and gratitude come from the heart. Have fun with it and be creative! Some people will write notes and put it in a jar to read later. It can be helpful to read when you are having a bad day.

Most people can use a little more “confidence” once in a while. As a hypnotherapist, I created an MP3 called “confidence” that can be listened to in a comfortable place where you will not be interrupted. It is a guided meditation/hypnosis session that offers suggestions of relaxation and confidence. Hypnosis is simply a guided meditation. When you can access your subconscious through meditation/hypnosis, you are able to use mind over matter, with positive suggestions to help you achieve an outcome you desire. Be sure that you don’t listen to it while operating any heavy equipment. Always seek professional medical help if needed, this audio cannot replace medical care that you may need. Here is to more empowerment and staying on the journey to self-growth, self-love, and self-respect! You can access the “confidence” audio here: http://dawnmariewestmoreland.com/confidence-hypnosis/

Dawn Westmoreland knows what it’s like to be un-empowered and feeling like a “victim”. After blowing the whistle on her former government manager, Dawn endured two years of retaliation and bullying that resulted in her landing in a mental health ward for three days. Dawn checked herself out and promised herself that she would never be a “victim” again and she would help others who wanted to move forward in their lives. Dawn later settled with this government agency and began training to become a Life Coach that empowers professional women today. She is sought out by media and has finished over 30 radio/magazine interviews about her journey and how she is empowering women today. Dawn has begun writing her book about her story and tips for others to overcome their “old stories”. The Christian Science Monitor also has praised Dawn for her bravery and empowering women today.

Negativity In Your Life? Three tips to empower you

February 25, 2015/0 Comments/in Empowerment/by Dawn Westmoreland

It is simply amazing, that as a community of people, there are quite a few miserable people on this earth. How can this be, when we have so many venues to help us be happier and healthier in our lives? If you are glued to the TV for the latest sensationalism, you are going to get a big dose of it, but it probably won’t make your day brighter. Most TV stations are featuring negative and energy-draining broadcasts. You may know people who are constantly sharing their fears or negativity about life, their work or about relationships. We are conditioned by our culture, community, parents, teachers, mentors, and others who may share their concerns with you. Many probably mean well and don’t realize the impact they are imparting on others. In reality, they do their best with the experience and conditioning they have received in their lives. Don’t fret! We do have choices and can choose our thoughts and actions wisely.

First, pay attention to your inner guidance or your feelings. If you have a “gut” feeling that something is not right, don’t dismiss it as nonsense. We are all equipped with different “gifts” of intuition. Trust yourself and your intuition. For example if you have feelings of concern or you feel repelled towards someone, that could be an indication that you should be concerned about that person. They may be someone who will take advantage of you or may not be a good person to hang around. Don’t be afraid, just trust yourself on this one. Your feelings are valid and should not be discarded because you don’t want to hurt someone. You should always be respectful and decent to people, but you get to choose your friends and the people you want to be in your life that lift you up and keep you inspired.

Second, be mindful of the people, places and events in your life. If you are constantly hanging around negative people or watching TV shows that make you depressed, consider limiting your activities around them. While we cannot control everything in our lives, we have lots of control in our own homes and who we bring into our lives as friends. Everything on this planet is “energy”. We are energy too. Yes—created by our Creator. When you take in negativity, it can severely affect you and especially empathetic people. Every day, I have a practice of visualizing “white light” emanating from inside of me and spreading throughout my home, property, and to other locations which I believe need to have positivity and pureness. It really does work! Try it sometime. I have sent “white light” to places that are far away and later learned that they are feeling much better and the air seems “lighter”. White light will remove “darkness” if you set the intention of love and light. It will never harm anyone because it can only help with removing negativity and darkness. Sometimes you may be going through a hard time and need some “white light” in your life. You can start out with small issues and see that it works and then “go bigger”.

Third, there are times when you have created the “drama” in your life. Just know that you have the power to change it with your thoughts, intentions and your actions. You have “personal power” and were created and made in the image of our Divine Creator. No one has to be a “victim”. You have the right and the skills to conquer many things in your life. Stop blaming others or think they can control you! Once you do this—you will become “unstuck” and able to take charge of your life. Give yourself permission to let go of your “old stories” and make healthful life changes. You can rely on yourself to get things done and ask people who want to see you succeed, to hold you accountable for taking action. Just do it! Many people find prayer to be very powerful. It is part of my daily routine and I highly recommend praying for the things you need so you can become the person you want to be in your life. Prayer works.

If you need more “confidence” to move ahead and to make positive changes in your life, you may need a little help. I have created a complimentary “confidence” hypnosis/meditation audio that you can use daily to increase your confidence. Many clients that come to me have issues with confidence. Who couldn’t use a little more confidence in their life? All you have to do is email me at CoachwithDawn@gmail.com and request your complimentary audio. I know you will be glad that you did and I always love hearing your feedback on my blogs, services and products.

Dawn Westmoreland is a professional Life Purpose Coach & Hypnotherapist on a mission to empower and assist professional women who want to “break-through” their overwhelm, stress, and stop being “leaders in hiding”. She has been featured in the Christian Science Monitor for her bravery and empowering people with her work. You can learn more about Dawn and her services at www.DawnMarieWestmoreland.com

Who Stole Your “Personal Power” from You? Five Tips for Recovery

February 17, 2015/0 Comments/in Empowerment/by Dawn Westmoreland

Are you constantly worried about what others think of you or that you won’t fit in with certain groups? Do you “give in” easily to other people’s demands or you have given up hope that you will ever be truly heard? As human beings in a spiritual body, I know that many of you have experienced it—giving away your “personal power”. You have taken the unappreciative comments from another person or you have felt “isolated even though you are in a crowd of people. It’s one of the worst feelings in the world.

Garbage men are often looked down upon from some people who feel they have achieved a “higher” status in life. When I lived in Southern France for eight months, the garbage men went on strike for higher pay and better “holiday” time off. I will never ever forget it. They went on strike for one month and refused to pick up any trash till they got their demands. I will not describe the smell or tell you what it looked like. We all know what kitchens smell like if we don’t get the trash out in a timely manner. Those garbage men got everything they wanted and I must say, I was secretly impressed and happy for them.

So often we give away our “personal power” and don’t realize why we are not being treated with respect. You must believe in yourself, more than others believe in you. If you are not being treated with respect, there may be a chance that you don’t respect your own self. Hey it happens! Been there myself and got the tee-shirt. I also burned that darn tee-shirt a while ago. I learned the hard way to find my own self-love and self-respect. I am always excited to help others find it a whole lot faster than I did. It’s time to burn that tee-shirt if you have it. Let’s dive in and take action to stop giving away your “personal power”.

First, Part of being a human being is feeling valued, appreciated, and having a sense of belonging. There is no one on this earth that is more valuable than you or deserves more than you do. That’s right! We are all God’ children and if you have a different faith or belief, than choose your “source”. Slow down a little in your life and notice the “signs” that are always there that tell you that you are connected to the divine and you are never ever alone on this earth. I am constantly finding these “signs” and it was only when I really slowed down that I began to notice them. Are you going so fast that you need to take yourself off of autopilot? Our society has conditioned us to go-go-go all the time and many times you are just being “busy” and really not as productive as you would like to be in your life.

Second, on this earth, you must put yourself first, before others. There are so many people “serving” others and they are burning out because they are not nurturing themselves and practicing self-care. Compare it to driving a car for a long time and not maintaining it. The car will break down eventually because it was not maintained. You must fulfill your needs first, so you can respond and care for others. You may be more “driven” or motivated than your spouse or partner, you cannot change them, but you can change yourself. And you must take action to fulfill your future or you will most likely experience being “uncomfortable” or that things are not working out the way you want them to be. Sometimes we have to experience misery or being uncomfortable so that we are “prompted” to be in alignment with our life purpose. This is no joke. Being in the mental health ward for three days was the best “gift” ever for me. I realized I was working in a job that was totally unfulfilling and working with people who had very low energies. It “shifted” me quickly to train in a year-long program to be a Life Coach. What a “gift”!

Third, stop worrying what others will think of you. They are responsible for their actions and emotions. You must be fair and considerate to others, as it is always the right thing to do. If you compassionately share some unpleasant news and the other person cries or gets mad, it probably means that they have some “unresolved” issues in their life that they need to heal or resolve. They may have been hurt in the past from a bad experience and it is still “unresolved” and eating away at them. Each of us has to “heal” ourselves and make amends with issues that have harmed or hurt us. We cannot “will” away some one else’s hurt or pain. We can be there for them and show support, but we cannot do the work for them. There is no magic pill. Healing or forgiving others can be hard work, but definitely worth it in the long run.

Fourth, if you are seeking answers from everyone else, but yourself. Stop it right now! You have an opinion and an “expert adviser” in you for many of the answers you are seeking. Stop asking someone else about how you should handle your affairs, unless you are seeking professional advice that you truly need. I see this over and over with people. They will ask me what I think about a matter involving them. I will turn it around in an empowering question and ask, “How are you giving away your personal power” to me when you know better than I, what is best for you. I never give advice to people. I will provide information that could be valuable to them, but want others to feel empowered because they become their own leader and take charge of their life. Think about it yourself—how do you give away your own “personal power”? When you realize it–that is the first step. Now take appropriate action for yourself.

Fifth, I use to run track in high school. I was pretty good too. I was running a race and I looked back and that was all it took to slow me down and the other runner won the race. I was so disappointed in myself that day. My coach and my mother told me later, that if I had not looked back, I would have won the race. How often are you comparing yourself with others or you are feeling insecure because someone is further down the “track” than where you are at this time? Often times, people who are successful will open up their wings more and take more risks in life. They don’t play small and they are competing against themselves so they can be their very best. Just keep your eyes on the goal and outcome you want in life. Stop comparing yourself and getting upset if someone else is doing better than you. They have bad days too! Consider this—what is the most loving and empowering thing you can do today, to help you achieve your goals or live the life you deserve?

I am about to create a “confidence” hypnosis/meditation MP3 soon. If you have never experienced hypnosis—it’s simply a guided meditation designed to relax you while you benefit from suggestions provided. If you want to get a copy, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I offer complimentary products from time to time, and only in my newsletter. Sign up for my newsletter at http://eepurl.com/8vFN1 The “confidence” MP3 will be included in my next newsletter.

Here is to your “Empowerment” and a great week!

Warmly,

Dawn Westmoreland

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March 26, 2013/by Dawn Westmoreland