What Makes Us Feel Well
Hi friend, how have you been? Last weekend, I attended a powerful workshop Martha Beck and Elizabeth Gilbert led in Toronto, Canada. One key message resonated with me: the difference between what makes us feel good versus what makes us feel well—grounded, fulfilled, and serene. This resonated deeply with me, especially as I think about my life, the changes I have initiated and committed to, the small, meaningful moments, and the book-writing process. Here are a few things I realized:
The big highs—like the one I’m about to experience with the release of my first book (hooray!)—aren’t what keep us grounded. Those big moments are thrilling, but it’s the small, everyday moments that bring us fulfillment. It’s the laughter at breakfast with family, quiet moments with loved ones, the joy of discovering something new with your children or seeing a team member flourish when you guide them with care. These small victories ground us and bring a sense of lasting calm. Allow me to give you a few real-life examples:
A part of me doesn’t want my writing process to end—I truly love it. I find fulfillment in the quiet moments of creation, the deep introspection, and the long hours of pouring my heart onto the page. It’s been such a meaningful experience that I’m already thinking about my next book! Many beta readers were curious about my conversion to Judaism and the love story behind it (book spoiler alert!), so I started jotting down some ideas. Who knows — maybe that’s a story worth telling next! Writing brings me joy. It makes me feel fulfilled. Hence, the newsletters.
Another example is of a talented, hard-working professional, and the key difference between being a manager and being a leader — let's consider the impact each one has on team members: a manager is mainly focused and interested in the outcome of his team and how the team is perceived. Conversely, a leader empowers others to grow and find their strengths through small victories and meaningful conversations. I’ve experienced both on Wall Street and thrived under leaders who inspired me—not managers who only focused on results (book spoiler alert!). All leaders left me feeling well and fulfilled with the work I delivered. Consequently, I strived to be a good leader during my corporate days.
Lastly, let's reflect on our role as mothers. We approach nurturing our children’s well-being in a similar way. It’s not about the medals or trophies but the journey we share with them. We consciously choose to practice a path toward wellness, guiding our children through trial and error as they discover what truly inspires them. Witnessing them connect with their authentic selves is an unparalleled joy that fosters lasting wellness for both mother and child. Although it’s not always easy, I promise you this: nurturing wellness instead of merely pursuing temporary happiness imparts a lifelong lesson to our children. They won't grow up seeking short-lasting and high moments but a serene and balanced lifestyle that is lasting and impactful.
My point with these examples is that in everyday life, we have opportunities to pursue what makes us feel good or what makes us feel well.
Often, we choose the "good" path because it has a more immediate yet short impact. However, feeling "good" is not fulfilling or long-lasting. The serene path may imply more effort, but it has a long-lasting effect on you and those around you.
That’s why I’m taking my time to publish my first book. I want to savor every step and ensure this journey is filled with purpose and wellness. The Waves We Ride is the result of countless meaningful moments and dialogues, and I want you to feel that when you read it. So when my book reaches your hands, remember:
The Waves We Ride is more than just my story on paper. It explores a woman's journey of self-discovery and personal transformation through life's adversities and changes—changes I initiated to find and nurture personal growth.
How about you? What makes you feel well? I am excited to hear from you, so feel free to reply to this email - I read every message. Together, we can ride the waves of life and emerge stronger, wiser, and more fulfilled.
P.S. Follow me on social media to stay tuned on pre-sale and book launch dates.
With love,
Ladyane