Articles – IAWP Life Coaching, LLC

An Intimate Journey through Depression: An Illuminating Prayer

By: Wintress Patrice, Certified NLP Life Coach

In the heart of our struggles lie our most profound opportunities for growth. For many of us, our deepest, darkest times serve as fertile soil from which our greatest strengths can sprout. My own journey through depression and the road to recovery allowed me to witness this truth first-hand. And it was during these tumultuous times that I found wisdom and comfort in the words of Iyanla Vanzant: “In my deepest, darkest moments, what really got me through was a prayer. Sometimes my prayer was ‘Help me.’ Sometimes a prayer was ‘Thank you.’ What I’ve discovered is that intimate connection and communication with my creator will always get me through because I know my support, my help, is just a prayer away.”

As an NLP Life Coach, I have used my personal experiences, combined with my professional training, to guide others towards mental wellbeing. However, I believe sharing my personal battle with depression can resonate with individuals on a more profound level.

My journey through depression was a paradoxical dance between despair and hope. The gray, leaden skies of my mental state often seemed boundless, and yet, in my heart, I always retained a kernel of faith, a light that never fully extinguished. This enduring light was nurtured through prayer, which became my beacon in navigating the often stormy seas of depression.

There were times when my prayers took the form of desperate pleas for help. This was not a sign of weakness, but rather a testament to my human vulnerability. It’s essential to understand that acknowledging our struggles and seeking assistance is a courageous act. Asking for help allows us to access strength beyond our own and opens up possibilities for transformation and healing.

During these times, my prayer was simple: “Help me.” I was not merely asking for relief from my emotional pain, but for guidance and strength to navigate through my depression. This heartfelt plea symbolized my willingness to relinquish control, to admit that I could not conquer my depression single-handedly, and to lean on the divine support that was always within my reach.

On other occasions, my prayer was a gratitude-filled whisper of “Thank you.” Amidst the fog of depression, moments of clarity, joy, or even simple peace can be incredibly potent. I made it a point to acknowledge these instances and express my sincere gratitude for them. In doing so, I reminded myself that my condition did not define me, and that there were still elements of my life that sparked joy and elicited gratitude.

Prayer, in this context, served as a mindful practice of gratitude, allowing me to create a mental space that held more than just my struggles. It was a gentle reminder of the good that was interwoven with the more challenging aspects of life, an affirmation of hope in the midst of despair.

The quote from Iyanla Vanzant that has guided me throughout my journey reflects a truth that lies at the heart of many spiritual and philosophical traditions: The divine, or whatever higher power you believe in, is always accessible to us. Our creator is not distant or unapproachable but is intimately involved in our lives, ready to offer support and comfort. This intimate connection is available to us always, regardless of our circumstances.

In my darkest times, the understanding of this divine connection provided a lifeline, a reassurance that no matter how overwhelming my depression felt, help and support were just a prayer away. Through prayer, I felt the transformative power of vulnerability, surrender, and gratitude, allowing me to navigate my journey through depression with resilience and hope.

My journey with depression was a challenging chapter in my life, but it also brought me invaluable insights. It deepened my connection with my creator, enhanced my sense of empathy, and enabled me to connect with others in similar situations. It inspired me to become an NLP Life Coach, dedicating my life to helping others navigate their mental health challenges.

In the end, my depression did not define me; rather, it became a part of my story, contributing to my growth and transformation. I truly believe that our struggles can be the catalysts for our most profound growth. So, whether your prayer is a plea for help or a whisper of gratitude, remember that you are never alone in your struggles. Divine support is always just a prayer away.

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Loving Unconditionally: Embracing Our Closest Relationships and Ourselves

By Wintress Patrice, Certified NLP Life Coach

Unconditional love is one of the most profound feelings we can experience. It is pure, unadulterated affection without any expectation of reciprocation, without limits, and without demands. It’s a selfless act of adoration for those close to us, and equally, it is a transformative way of treating ourselves. In this article, we will explore the essence of unconditional love, how to practice it with those closest to us, and how to cultivate this love within ourselves.

The Essence of Unconditional Love

Unconditional love is like the limitless sky or the vast ocean. There is no beginning or end, no constraint or condition. It is the kind of love that sees past flaws and imperfections, appreciating the person beneath without judgment or criticism. Unconditional love creates an emotional safe space for individuals to express themselves without fear of rejection.

Loving Your Closest People Unconditionally

Loving someone unconditionally requires strength, patience, and a deep understanding of the self and others. Here are some ways to practice this form of love:

1. Acceptance: The first step in loving unconditionally is accepting people as they are, not as we wish they would be. Understand that everyone has unique traits, behaviors, and feelings. Embrace their individuality without trying to change them.

2. Empathy: Put yourself in their shoes. Try to understand their experiences, emotions, and perspectives. This understanding can lead to a deeper connection and a more profound love.

3. Patience: Love is patient. It understands that people make mistakes, and rather than react with anger or disappointment, responds with forgiveness and guidance.

4. Communication: Open and honest communication is crucial in all relationships. Express your feelings, expectations, and concerns openly, but always with kindness and respect.

5. Consistency: Show your love consistently, even during challenging times. This is the true test of unconditional love – standing firm even when the winds of life are blowing hard.

The Art of Self-Love

Just as we must love others unconditionally, we must also treat ourselves with the same kindness and grace. The love we show ourselves sets the tone for how we love others. Below are some ways to practice self-love:

1. Self-Acceptance: You must embrace your authentic self, with all your strengths and weaknesses. Everyone has flaws, and acknowledging them is not an act of self-degradation but a step towards self-awareness and growth.

2. Self-Care: Prioritize your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Engage in activities that rejuvenate you and make you feel good about yourself.

3. Positive Affirmations: Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Regularly remind yourself of your worth, achievements, and capabilities.

4. Set Healthy Boundaries: Understand your limits and learn to say no. Protecting your peace and personal space is an act of self-love.

5. Forgive Yourself: You will make mistakes, and that’s okay. Use them as lessons, not as reasons for self-punishment. Forgive yourself and move forward.

Conclusion

Loving unconditionally doesn’t mean you should allow yourself or others to be mistreated. It means accepting and loving in spite of flaws, without expectations, and remaining patient and consistent in your affection. To genuinely love others unconditionally, you must begin by loving yourself unconditionally, creating a healthy, harmonious balance that enriches your life and those you hold dear.

Remember, love is a journey, not a destination. There will be roadblocks, detours, and speed bumps along the way. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth and deepening your capacity for unconditional love.

Through coaching and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), we can better understand our patterns of thought, behavior, and feelings towards ourselves and others, aiding in our journey of unconditional love. As an NLP Life Coach, I invite you to join me on this path of self-discovery, empathy, acceptance, and, ultimately, unconditional love.

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Finding Your Perfect Fit: The Tale of The Crown

By Wintress Patrice

Hello, Beautiful Queens! This is Wintress Patrice, your Certified NLP Life Coach and Founder of IAWP Life Coaching, LLC. Today, I’d like to talk about a crown, not just any crown, but the one we wear as women, as nurturers, as leaders, and as symbols of strength. There is a quote by Pearl Bailey that has always resonated with me, “A crown, if it hurts us, is not worth wearing.” This statement holds profound wisdom that merits our attention.

There was a time in my life when my crown was hurting my head. It was heavy, uncomfortable, and ill-fitting. As I looked in the mirror, I realized it wasn’t the crown that was custom created for me. Instead, it was a crown crafted by societal expectations, family pressures, and norms that were thrust upon me. It wasn’t my crown.

As women, we often speak proudly about wearing our crowns. We use it as a metaphor for our roles and responsibilities, our achievements, and our inner strength. But how often do we consider the weight of the crowns we bear? How frequently do we stop to question whether the crown we wear has been custom-made to fit our unique dimensions, or if it’s a one-size-fits-all piece that’s causing us discomfort?

Recognizing when our crown doesn’t serve us anymore is a process that requires introspection and courage. It may mean acknowledging that we’ve outgrown the expectations of others, or that those expectations were never ours to begin with. It might involve standing up to societal norms and daring to define success, happiness, and fulfillment on our own terms.

Queens, I urge you to remember this: When your crown feels heavy, it’s okay to take it off. It’s okay to seek out a crown that suits you better, one that complements your personal values, goals, and unique individuality. Find a crown that doesn’t just sit on your head but fits you perfectly and elevates your spirit.

As we navigate our journeys, let’s also remember that we’re not alone. There’s another quote that I hold dear, “Real queens straighten each other’s crowns.” This means that we should not only be there for ourselves but also for the other queens in our lives. We should support, uplift, and encourage each other. We should create a circle of empowerment where we can safely adjust our crowns without judgment or criticism, in a space where love, respect, and understanding thrive.

I want to thank you all for taking the time to read my thoughts today. If you feel that your crown doesn’t fit you anymore or you’re unsure of how to find the one that does, please remember that IAWP Life Coaching, LLC is here for you. We provide personalized services designed to help you define your own success, create your own crown, and live a life filled with purpose and joy.

I encourage you to like, share, save, and comment on this article. Your insights and experiences can inspire and uplift other queens who may be wearing a heavy crown. Follow me, Wintress Patrice, on Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn, where I share more empowering content designed to inspire and guide you in your journey.

To all the Beautiful Queens out there, remember: Your crown is not defined by others, but by you. Choose the one that enhances your beauty, inner strength, and unique brilliance.

As always, Light & Love,

xoxo

Wintress Patrice

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Wintress Patrice’s Journey: Finding Strength and Inspiration in the Life of Tina Turner

By Wintress Patrice

May 24, 2023

In a world where music has the power to touch our souls and transcend barriers, there are certain artists who leave an indelible mark on our lives. Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, was one such artist whose life and legacy continue to inspire millions. As a certified NLP Life Coach and a survivor of domestic violence, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the profound impact Tina Turner’s story had on my own journey of healing and empowerment.

The recent passing of Tina Turner has left a void in the music industry and in the hearts of her fans worldwide. Her powerful voice, electrifying stage presence, and unmistakable energy made her an icon of resilience and strength. Beyond her immense talent as a performer, Tina Turner’s personal story of triumph over adversity became a source of hope for countless individuals facing their own struggles.

For me, the movie “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” which depicted Tina Turner’s life, became a lifeline during my darkest moments. As a survivor of domestic violence, I found solace and inspiration in witnessing Tina’s courage and determination to break free from the chains of abuse. Her story served as a constant reminder that I too had the strength to reclaim my life and create a better future.

Throughout the film, Tina Turner’s resilience shines through as she rises above the pain and finds her voice. The movie became a powerful catalyst for my own healing journey. Watching Tina’s transformation, from a victim of domestic violence to a powerful force in the music industry, filled me with a renewed sense of possibility. It instilled in me the belief that no matter how dire our circumstances may seem, we have the power to overcome and create the life we deserve.

Tina Turner’s story resonated deeply with me as I navigated the difficult path of healing and rebuilding. Her ability to speak openly about her experiences and her unwavering determination to create a better life for herself and her children became a beacon of hope. Through her music, she expressed the emotions and struggles that many survivors of domestic violence face, reminding us that we are not alone.

As a certified NLP Life Coach, I draw inspiration from Tina Turner’s resilience and use it as a guiding light to help others on their own journeys. Her courage to share her story and her unwavering belief in herself have become powerful tools in my coaching practice. I encourage my clients to find their own voices, reclaim their power, and create lives free from abuse.

In honor of Queen Tina Turner, it is crucial that we foster a supportive environment for survivors of domestic violence. It is our responsibility to listen, believe, and uplift those who have experienced trauma. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please reach out to the domestic violence hotline at the National Domestic Violence hotline at https://www.thehotline.org/ . Remember, support and understanding can make a world of difference.

Queen Tina Turner, your legacy will forever resonate in our hearts. Your courage, resilience, and authenticity have inspired countless individuals, including myself, to find their strength and reclaim their lives. Rest in Peace, dear Queen. Your music will continue to touch the souls of generations to come.

With love and gratitude,

Wintress Patrice

Certified NLP Life Coach

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When You Love Yourself Unconditionally, How Do You Move Your Body?

By Wintress Patrice, Certified NLP Life Coach

Unconditional self-love is an exploration, a journey, and a destination. It has the power to alter the entire landscape of our existence, manifesting in our actions, thoughts, and physical movements. When we foster an environment of self-love, we engage with our bodies in a novel and powerful way. Today, I want to explore the transformative intersection between self-love and body movement.

Grammy-winning artist Lizzo, a vocal advocate for self-love and body positivity, provides us with an insightful mantra, “I am my inspiration, I am my inspiration” (from her song “Water Me”). This line speaks volumes about the powerful relationship between self-perception, self-love, and embodiment.

The Dance of Self-Love

When we love ourselves unconditionally, our bodies become an outward expression of this profound internal emotion. We engage in movement with a newfound sense of joy and freedom, because every motion is now an affirmation of our worth, rather than a negation of perceived flaws.

When we fully accept and love ourselves, our posture improves, our steps become more purposeful, and our actions reflect the respect we hold for our bodies. We become more attuned to our physical needs, listening attentively to our bodies’ signals of fatigue, hunger, tension, and relaxation.

The Rhythm of Authenticity

Unconditional self-love encourages us to move our bodies authentically, breaking free from societal norms and expectations. Just like Lizzo, who confidently takes the stage and moves in ways that showcase her personality, energy, and talent, we too can be unapologetically ourselves in our body movements.

We learn to dance, walk, run, jump, and play, not to conform to a standard or to be perceived a certain way, but simply to express the rhythm of our being. This authenticity shines through in our every move, showing the world who we are: individuals who love and accept ourselves wholeheartedly.

Exercise as Self-Love

Another way our movement reflects self-love is through our approach to exercise. Physical activity becomes less about trying to fit into societal ideals, and more about appreciating and caring for our bodies. Exercise shifts from a punitive chore to a celebratory act of self-love.

Instead of pushing through pain or discomfort to achieve a certain look, we learn to move in ways that feel good and serve our bodies well. We choose activities that we enjoy, not what we believe we ‘should’ do. We listen to our bodies, rest when we need to, and challenge ourselves when we feel strong. This approach turns exercise from a struggle into a joyful act of self-care.

Embracing Body Positivity

In the words of Lizzo, “I am my inspiration.” Loving ourselves unconditionally means seeing ourselves as sources of inspiration. This transformative perspective extends to our bodies and how we move them.

Lizzo’s unabashed body positivity and confident movements on stage reflect the core of her message: that we should all be our own biggest fans. When we internalize this mindset, it directly impacts the way we carry ourselves. We stop trying to shrink or hide ourselves and instead start taking up space confidently, unafraid to be seen or to stand out.

Conclusion

The journey to unconditional self-love isn’t linear or easy. It requires patience, practice, and a lot of kindness. Yet, its impact on our lives, and particularly on our relationship with our bodies, is profound.

When we love ourselves unconditionally, every step we take, every dance move we bust out, every yoga pose we hold, becomes an act of self-love and a celebration of our existence. We become the embodiment of Lizzo’s mantra, “I am my inspiration,” inspiring ourselves and others to embrace self-love unconditionally.

Remember: You are deserving of love, from others and, most importantly, from yourself. Love yourself, move your body with joy and authenticity, and let your self-love guide your way.

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Embracing Individuality and Authentic Success: A Deeper Look at Maya Angelou’s Wise Words

Author: Wintress Patrice, Certified NLP Life Coach

Success is an elusive and subjective concept that varies from person to person. While some may measure it in terms of wealth, career, or societal status, Maya Angelou, the renowned poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, provided a deeper, more personal definition. “Success,” she said, “is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

At first glance, Angelou’s words may seem straightforward, but each element of this tripartite definition holds profound truths about the path to authentic success. Her wisdom emphasizes that success is more than achievements or accolades; it’s an intimate journey of self-acceptance, passion, and individuality. This perspective beautifully aligns with my belief as an NLP Life Coach: that each person is uniquely gifted for their journey.

Liking Yourself: The Foundation of Success

The journey to success starts from within. Liking yourself, or self-acceptance, is the bedrock upon which all other facets of success are built. It’s about acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses, your virtues and vices, your triumphs and tribulations, and embracing them all. This self-love isn’t about perfection, but about recognizing your inherent worth regardless of external validation.

Indeed, this can be a challenging path, especially in a world that often promotes comparison and unrealistic standards. However, an understanding that no one else is you, that no one else can bring what you bring to the table, can act as a compass guiding you towards self-acceptance.

As a Certified NLP Life Coach, I often remind my clients that they are “uniquely gifted for their journey.” This principle encourages you to focus on your uniqueness rather than comparing yourself to others. This isn’t a race; it’s your journey, and the first step to true success is loving the traveler: you.

Liking What You Do: The Power of Passion

Angelou’s second component to success speaks to the power of passion. It’s about loving what you do, whether it’s your career, your hobby, or your role in your family or community. To be successful is to be passionately engaged with your work, to feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the activities that fill your days.

Remember, there’s no universally ‘right’ career or pursuit; there’s only what’s right for you. As an NLP Life Coach, I help individuals unlock their passions, identifying their unique gifts and leveraging them in the service of a purpose that excites them. When you align your work with your passions, you invite success into your life in the most gratifying way.

Liking How You Do It: The Art of Individuality

Finally, Angelou ties her definition of success to liking “how you do it.” Here, she celebrates the beauty of individuality. Every person has a unique approach to their work, a distinctive style, or a novel perspective. Embracing this individuality is paramount to personal success.

Success isn’t about following a set script or conforming to societal expectations. It’s about crafting your own path, doing things in a way that feels true to you. Your unique methods and approaches are your signature, your personal brand.

By marrying your unique gifts and skills with your individual approach, you make an indelible imprint on your journey towards success. It doesn’t matter if others follow a different path or use different methods. You are not them, and they are not you.

This individuality should be celebrated, not suppressed. As Angelou suggests, the most satisfying success comes when we appreciate our unique way of doing things. In essence, success isn’t just about the destination, but also about enjoying the journey in our unique style.

Conclusion

Maya Angelou’s vision of success is a testament to the power of self-love, passion, and individuality. It is a reminder that success is deeply personal, entirely subjective, and intrinsically connected to our unique journey.

As an NLP Life Coach, my mission is to guide you to recognize and celebrate your unique gifts, to foster a sense of self-love, and to align your passions with your pursuits. Remember, no one else is you, and that’s your greatest strength. So go forth and cultivate your unique version of success. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” Embrace this mantra and the journey towards authentic success becomes not just achievable, but incredibly rewarding.

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“Does it Consist of Self-Care? Understanding the Importance of Positive Self-Talk as a Form of Self-Love”

Wintress Patrice, Certified NLP Life Coach

Self-care: a term that has permeated mainstream discussions around wellness and mental health in recent years. We’ve grown to understand that it isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days. It is an expansive concept, embracing various practices centered on fostering physical health, psychological wellness, emotional balance, and spiritual nourishment. The embodiment of self-care spans the spectrum, from maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise to engaging in activities that promote mental peace and emotional stability. However, an equally crucial and often undervalued aspect of self-care revolves around our internal dialogue: positive self-talk. This article focuses on the significance of positive self-talk as a potent form of self-care and self-love.

Positive self-talk is an essential tool in our self-care arsenal. It influences our state of mind, guides our behaviors, and ultimately shapes our reality. The narratives we tell ourselves can either uplift our spirits or pull us down into despair. If our inner dialogue is negative, we become trapped in a cycle of self-destruction, where our own thoughts become our worst enemies. Conversely, if we engage in positive self-talk, we open doors to a brighter, more optimistic outlook on life, and become our own best friends.

Before diving into the ways to harness positive self-talk as a form of self-care, it is essential to understand what positive self-talk is. In simplest terms, it is the act of offering kind, uplifting, and affirmative words to oneself. It involves consciously shifting the narrative from self-doubt, self-criticism, and pessimism to self-affirmation, self-encouragement, and optimism.

So, how does one cultivate this practice?

Mindfulness: Start by being mindful of your thoughts. It’s easy to let negative self-talk slip into your consciousness unnoticed, subtly undermining your self-esteem. Take time to pause, reflect, and identify your internal dialogue.
Reframe Negative Thoughts: When you notice negative self-talk, don’t ignore it, but instead confront and reframe it. Transform “I can’t do this” into “This is challenging, but I can manage it step by step.”
Affirmations: Use positive affirmations regularly. These are statements that reinforce your self-worth, abilities, and aspirations. Examples include “I am capable,” “I am resilient,” or “I am worthy of success and happiness.”
Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself. It’s easy to be your harshest critic, but self-love calls for self-compassion. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes; they are part of the learning process.
Gratitude: Practice gratitude. Rather than focusing on what’s going wrong, identify what’s going right in your life. This shift can help foster a more positive and appreciative mindset.

Positive self-talk is a significant part of self-care as it directly influences our mental and emotional wellbeing. It affects our self-esteem, confidence, creativity, resilience, and overall outlook on life. It also improves our relationships with others, because as we learn to love and respect ourselves more, we tend to love and respect others more.

However, cultivating positive self-talk is not about ignoring reality or bypassing negative emotions. It’s about acknowledging our feelings, our struggles, and our pain, but choosing not to let them define us. It’s about taking control of our narrative and steering it towards optimism, resilience, and self-love.

Engaging in positive self-talk as a form of self-care is transformative. It has the potential to

usher in more profound changes in our lives than we could ever anticipate. Our brains believe what we tell them consistently, and as we cultivate a habit of positive self-talk, we rewire our brains to foster a more positive mindset, a mindset that can withstand setbacks, navigate life’s challenges, and ultimately, lead to a happier, healthier existence.

In conclusion, the type of self-care you practice should be as unique as you are, meeting your specific needs. Positive self-talk, a potent form of self-care, is a lifelong journey, and it requires consistency and patience. But the rewards — improved mental health, a boost in self-esteem, increased resilience, and a more fulfilling life — are well worth the effort. Let’s all strive to be the authors of our own narratives, painting them with the vibrant colors of positivity, resilience, and self-love.