The name ‘Rebecca Campbell’ has been popping up in my sphere for a good few months, and I became intrigued for two key reasons – first, she seems like a very switched on (forgive the pun) ‘light worker’; secondly, she’s Aussie (like me, so obviously that gives her immediate cred!).
In all seriousness though, her divine new book, Light is the New Black (Hay House) literally has me hooked. Synchronicity was at play with regards to the timing of my getting my hands on a copy. Every page I opened on any given morning or evening inevitably answered a question I’d asked that same day. The ‘coincidences’ narrowed even as far as Rebecca talking about one of her mentors, Sonia Choquette, who I read about in this book just a day after an intuitive healer had introduced me to Sonia’s work.
I’ve committed the ultimate sin against crisp new printed pages, and dog-eared about 75 per cent of this book – all reminders of phrases, paragraphs and pages that resonate with me, plus self-development activities I need to go back to complete, and general life-tips pertinent right now (and no doubt, in the imminent future).
Light is the New Black has become my absolute favourite daily go-to guide for inspiration on how to brighten each of life’s moments, and how to really make strides towards individually having the courage to share thoughts, insights, stories, and indeed light, with the world. Colleagues at work have bought the book based on my fanatic raving; I purchased the Kindle version too, and a group of friends and I are already signed up for some of Rebecca’s remaining 2015 London events (she’s on her way to Aus soon too, so take a look at her site for tickets and availability).
I’m a brand new fan, because Rebecca’s book has sparked copious ideas scribbled down at late hours on scraps of paper (whatever was closest to hand), plus voice memos upon which I’ve recorded imaginative and inspired epiphanies. Rebecca’s both wise and relatable, and I can tell by the daily interactions on her Facebook spaces, that by baring her own soul, Rebecca has truly moved others who feel they can do more to enlighten the world.
Light is the New Black is a well-written yet accessible guide on how to get started answering your soul’s callings. Rebecca includes engaging stories and heartfelt anecdotes, and her words of wisdom are crafted in a truly helpful, actionable way.
In a nutshell, this book is beautifully written, makes loads of sense, is soul-stirring and surprising.
If you’re looking for something to motivate you to take a step – whether large or small – towards a bigger, light-filled life for you, your loved ones and the world at large, then start right here.
About the book:
Light Is the New Black is a guidebook for a new breed of women who are here to be bright lights in the world – modern-day lightworkers, who agreed to be here at this time in history. In order to thrive in this new age, everything we do must be an authentic expression of who we truly are. Light Is the New Black will guide you back home to the callings of your soul, so you can light up the world with your presence. –Amazon description, find it here.
Lately I’ve encountered an array of ‘temperamental personalities’ within workplaces where I’ve been contracting; nice, intelligent, motivated people, but prone to breeding ill-feelings due to ongoing ‘bad days’ and in some cases, weeks!
One such example: a magazine designer, Anna, all of a sudden got very moody and sullen at work a few weeks back, to the point where she was obviously being very short with other staff (women, in particular). The primary-school-esque behaviour was not something I’d expect in a professional adult setting, but it seemed to me things were happening at home that were being brought into the office (not necessarily professional, but it happens). What followed was also fairly immature − other team members began gossiping about what Anna’s ‘problem’ was, and in turn ended up feeling miserable themselves. After a few weeks, Anna seemed to move on from her moodiness, but one other on the team, Kelly, has taken it all to heart. She’s harbouring resentment, and now this workplace’s communications team aren’t as communicative as they deserve to be.
None of us are immune to getting involved in this kind of thing. We’ve all got clients, friends, bosses and co-workers who are occasionally (or consistently!) moody and pessimistic, and it only takes one snarky word on a bad day, or a rude snub when we’re doing our best to smile in the first place, for a ‘snap’ to take place, and then the spiral downwards begins. I’m sure you can appreciate that awful feeling, when things go from bright and bubbly in a relationship(s), to strained and cold. It’s awful, and incredibly difficult when it happens in a space where you’re forced to spend a lot of time.
All this negativity can be draining, but after a couple of weeks witnessing what was happening amongst this otherwise-nice group of people, it occurred to me that it wasn’t (and mostly never is) the actions of the person being a bitch/in a bad mood/having a rubbish day/acting like a negative Nancy, that makes a room dull with downer energy. It is actually, us, or accurately, those who play into someone else’s problem, and make it a bigger issue than it needs to be.
We may like some co-workers, clients, sales reps, consultants and supervisors we more than others, and that’s ok. But inevitably, a lot of time is spent together as we each toil to generate income, so what if we were to choose to focus on defusing dark situations rather than simply focussing ON the situation alone.
Here’s what I’ve learned │ co-working karma
Let it go; everyone has ‘their thing’ going on.
Be forgiving (it’s more pleasant than being resentful).
Practice kindness – often that’s the ingredient missing in others’ lives.
Don’t be afraid to instigate peace – grudges are so last decade.
Choose better thoughts; the more you worry about the issue, the bigger it becomes.
Devise ways for your team to get-together socially – a relaxed, fun out-of-work environment can put people at ease, assisting individuals to move past office-related issues.
As always, two choices exist. We can spend time being bummed about a situation or someone’s bad attitude; or we can bring light and a little love to the experience. It’s as easy as starting with ourselves, and considering whether or not we’re taking ownership of the energy, actions, attitude and beliefs we are individually putting forward.
If you’re currently having difficulties in your work life, try this before reacting defensively or destructively: think kindly towards those causing you grief. In your mind, wish them a day as nice as you hope yours will be, and try to get into this kinder mindset before setting foot in the office or into the meeting you’ve been dreading. It’s easy to forget that everyone has their own thing going on, and that it’s up to us to each show up with grace, gratitude, and a tidied-up attitude. With this in mind, it could be you who singlehandedly brings warmth to cold times.
By Sarah Blinco. Originally published, Get it Magazine, June 2015
My friends appreciate that if forced to choose a persona, I’m definitely more Mulder than Scully (if you’re not familiar with these terms – characters, actually – you will certainly understand what I’m on about by January 2016). I’m a truth-is-out-there, we-are-not-alone, life-does-not-end-here kinda gal. But, it’s because I actually do believe in ghosts, spirits, mediums and another life (or lives, as the case may be) that I’m rather well-read on the topic.
If you’re not or do not care, don’t bother reading on.
Review The Unbelievable Truth
My brother and I have discussed the spirit world and paranormal experiences at length since a young age. We’ve always been ‘aware’. Additionally, I’ve met gifted psychic mediums and know for absolute sure the ‘real deal’ exists (on the Gold Coast in Australia, actually).
I’m always interested to hear what people have to say on the topic of connecting with life after death, so was intrigued to discover details on Gordon Smith’s newest release and have the opportunity to review The Unbelievable Truth.
Gordon is touted as being one of the UK’s most gifted mediums (of interest to me, now I’m based in London!). I’ve just finished his book and am happy to report I found it an enjoyable, enlightening read, covering topics of age-old interest and debate, including life after death, reincarnation, near death experiences, and encounters with ghosts and spirits.
Here’s a few of my personal take-aways:
The difference between psychics and mediums – I’d always used the term interchangeably, but Gordon says it’s mediums who are responsible for putting you in touch with dearly departed friends and family. Psychics are insightful with regards to life circumstances; and future-tellers are gifted with another certain gift. Some possess a mix of these talents; some are simply (sadly) frauds, preying on the vulnerable.
On reincarnation, Gordon discusses the paths we can take which might see us moving on into a spirit world (where, incidentally, we keep evolving and learning – we don’t just cross over and dwell in the light, as far as I can tell); Or, we might come back and live another life, learn some more lessons, and move forward towards a higher understanding of life and living.
Be good in this life because you don’t leave it behind; karma moves with us, no matter where you end up.
While I understand ‘ghosts’ to consist of various types, in particular, ‘residual energy’ and ‘intelligent energy’, Gordon describes ghosts as that energy (or imprint) which is left behind in a place or space (residual). A ghost is something that appears, but isn’t actually interacting with us. However, Gordon says spirits are the intelligent entities that are actually trying to communicate with us – they move things around, show themselves and communicate important messages. Interestingly, he believes most paranormal activity is actually a manifestation caused by the emotions of a person or group of people – a proposition I’d not previously considered.
We keep learning on the other side, but the more you pursue enlightenment here (and associated appreciation of gratitude, empathy and kindness), the smoother your transition might potentially be, no matter what ‘the other side’ may be.
Gordon infuses a warm sense of Scottish storytelling and humour within his tales of personal experience regarding life as a medium, and empathy into stories about those who he has helped by way of connecting to lost loved-ones. I enjoyed his descriptions of how mediums and psychics gain their information, his explanations around many misconceptions or myths surrounding paranormal activity, and appreciated his frank explanations of what mediums can and can’t do. He discusses his evolution from gifted child to practiced medium too, and it’s interesting to learn how this is a craft – like any other – that needs to be nurtured and honed over time.
Up until now, the book I’ve enjoyed most which explains this theme has been When Ghosts Speak, by American, Mary Ann Winkowski. Gordon’s book is akin to this in my mind, explaining extraordinary notions in layman’s terms. If you’re a believer and seeking further insight into how mediums communicate with the spirit world, how you might benefit from sitting with someone like Gordon (provided they’re legitimate – although he discusses this too), and what lies in store after this life, you’ll definitely be interested in this read.
The Unbelievable Truth by Gordon Smith (Hayhouse)
Click here for more information
Hands up if you’ve ever been delayed in transit or had your daily plan thrown out by something silly like a traffic jam, and you’ve ended up, well, super annoyed? Yep, me too. Unexpected changes to my plans have often meant major tantrums and freak outs. Recently I had an epiphany on this front though, which has pleasantly changed how I perceive time I once would have deemed ‘lost’. Surprisingly, it all started at a crowded railway station, one drizzly Wednesday morning…
I was on a work trip in a capital city and relying on public transport to get me from A to B. That bit wasn’t so bad, as I was conveniently staying above a transit centre. On the morning of an important meeting, I turned up to discover major delays and an up to 40 minute wait. Brilliant! I started to panic – I’d only just arrive in time, if that.
Feeling flustered, pacing the platform as if that might miraculously manifest my ride, I considered the options. I could race to the station up the road to see if they had fewer issues (doubtful). Ed Sheeran could drown out my worries with his sublime voice (nah, feeling too impatient for music). Alternatively, Wi-Fi was on offer. I could press play on a lengthy podcast I’d hoped to listen to over breakfast.
I switched the webcast on, only to discover that what I had planned to listen to merely for general interest’s sake, turned out to be a half hour of motivating messages I needed to hear, now. The presenter even shared practical advice which I benefitted from in meetings that very day. I barely noticed the time fly by because I was so engaged. In fact, when a notification appeared overhead revealing there was a further five minute delay, I was happy that I’d be able to listen to the end. I really did feel like a cheeky Universal intervention had actually ‘given’ me the time to listen, because it was important that I did so.
To be sure, the “best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry”, so why do we all too often default to stress and impatience when something doesn’t go our way? For me, it usually takes a lot of will power not to be dirty when my schedule is knocked out of play. I’ve always been a planner, early with deadlines and to meetings. Going with the flow – allowing – is something I’ve had to learn and practice.
Gwyneth Paltrow starred in a film called Sliding Doors – maybe you remember it? One of the themes the movie explores is what happens when life doesn’t go to plan, like when you miss your train (or find your partner is cheating on you!). Therapist, Joleen Watson, comments on her website, “The movie [Sliding Doors] teaches that we can’t control the outcome – we can only control our actions and the choices we make in life. And we can continue to trust the process that there is something we are supposed to learn through the process of letting go.”
My moment on the train platform made me think of that film. I was rather chuffed to realise that being stuck wasn’t a waste of time, but indeed, a gift of time.
Whether it’s your taxi turning up late, or missing out on a job you thought you wanted, life happens, and it’s beyond our control. Last week I read that the presence of fear (which can be the root of many feelings including anxiety, worry, stress, jealousy, sadness, panic) is a sign that you are trusting in your own strength, rather than leaning on a power greater than you. In other words, sometimes we have to let go of the schedule or plan, and have a little faith it will all work out in the end (even if it’s not the way originally imagined).
Aim to succeed, of course, just like I’d planned to catch the 8.07am train that morning back in April. But, when circumstances mean you have to change tack, if all else fails, try surrendering the worry. Give yourself a break next time you’re delayed or diverted, and consider what else you could take away from the moment instead.
A little timeless advice from Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882), worth pondering next time your plans are thrown off course:
“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day; begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be encumbered with your old nonsense.”
By Sarah Blinco. Originally published, Get it Magazine, May 2015
Cooper and I were chatting this morning about how to make time for personal endeavours; that is, how do you find the time to follow your heart? You see, I’m a little more adept at juggling a lot of things because I’ve been forced into being organised through running my own business, and doing absolutely everything as a sole trader. While I am working full time now in a gig I love, I haven’t lost the habit of always ‘doing something’ (although, I think that’s a personality type too – perhaps you relate!). Plus, I’ve got stories to share and messages to promote – hence TLL.
I know plenty of people who want to design a slightly different life for themselves, or pursue other passions entirely aside from their current work situation. But it’s really challenging, with family commitments, work, life and that irritating nemesis, tiredness!
The conversation got me thinking about what advice I’d give to Cooper, or anyone else struggling with an already packed program when it comes to work/life balance. I’ve learned a thing or two on my own, but also through observing others – including super busy mums – who have successfully created a life and/or business they love.
Have a listen…
Key take-aways
How to find the time to follow your heart:
Set time aside each morning – just 20 minutes is all you need. If that means you have to get up early (short-term pain for long-term gain), then do it. Start now.
I live by my mornings now, and strongly suggest you spend the first 5 to 10 minutes of yours in contemplation about the day to come, and how great it’s going to be.
Spend another 10 minutes or so in inspired action towards your ultimate goal. Write/blog/mind-map/watch a motivating YouTube clip. Start the day off on a positive note.
Keep a notebook (or equivalence) with you to jot down goals, ideas, dreams, plans, gratitude lists and things you want – do this throughout the day! Not only will this exercise attract better things into your world, it’ll cheer you up in the process.
Do one small thing towards your goal/dream/big idea every day. No action is too small.
Keep an eye out for opportunities to learn, in the form of webinars and free online activities that will only take up an hour or so of your time each week. Subscribe to your favourite service-providers or coaches’ email alerts.
Utilise YouTube – set up your very own motivation playlist, and save clips in there that you can access at any given time, day or night. Clips might include TED Talks, motivational monologues, 10 minute mindfulness meditations, videos by business or spiritual coaches… Whatever gets you going.
Reflect before sleep, on the day that’s been. Be proud of your actions and set an intention to keep moving forward tomorrow.
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The name ‘Rebecca Campbell’ has been popping up in my sphere for a good few months, and I became intrigued for two key reasons – first, she seems like a very switched on (forgive the pun) ‘light worker’; secondly, she’s Aussie (like me, so obviously that gives her immediate cred!).
All this negativity can be draining, but after a couple of weeks witnessing what was happening amongst this otherwise-nice group of people, it occurred to me that it wasn’t (and mostly never is) the actions of the person being a bitch/in a bad mood/having a rubbish day/acting like a negative Nancy, that makes a room dull with downer energy. It is actually, us, or accurately, those who play into someone else’s problem, and make it a bigger issue than it needs to be.
My friends appreciate that if forced to choose a persona, I’m definitely more Mulder than Scully (if you’re not familiar with these terms – characters, actually – you will certainly understand what I’m on about by January 2016). I’m a truth-is-out-there, we-are-not-alone, life-does-not-end-here kinda gal. But, it’s because I actually do believe in ghosts, spirits, mediums and another life (or lives, as the case may be) that I’m rather well-read on the topic.
To be sure, the “best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry”, so why do we all too often default to stress and impatience when something doesn’t go our way? For me, it usually takes a lot of will power not to be dirty when my schedule is knocked out of play. I’ve always been a planner, early with deadlines and to meetings. Going with the flow – allowing – is something I’ve had to learn and practice.
