Sheila Steptoe

Destiny Wisdom - everyone is going through something

2012-01-13T05:13:00.000-08:00

Life is a series of experiences from which we learn but it can be a lonely place sometimes. But knowing you are not alone was my saving grace many years ago and I would love everyone to feel this connection as it's like having a great big beautiful hug.

It is a connection to a powerful energy which is difficult to explain but a connection to your higher self is part of your inner wisdom, which include your thoughts, your feelings and your emotions. Each experience you are going through is part of your life's plan as we need the good and the difficult to understand the difference. Plus to appreciate the joys of friendship and love to share some of those moments.

Imagine walking around with a placard saying 'do you know what has just happened to me' as I feel sad or happy today because everyone else is so wrapped up in their own life's experiences that sometimes it is hard to share how you feel.

If you are buzzing with excitement it is so much easier to share and shout about but if something hurts inside or something you have struggled with all your life is stopping you moving on, then I maybe able to help or friends will have a listening ear if you dare to ask.

How many of you reading this will say "Oh I can't bother them because they are so busy" but if they knew your feelings, then I am sure they would take the time to listen. Just sharing your feelings sometimes can create an enormous shift as if the load has lifted from your shoulders even if they can't help alter your situation. But so often we don't like to ask for help. I was one of those people for many years but then I realised that I would always help others if I can but receiving love is not always easy. Sometimes it is easier to give than receive but it is important to have a balance of both.

I remember vividly the day after my dad died I crashed my car but of course the person whom I drove into had no idea of why I had a moment of lack of concentration. They could not alter my situation and if I had told them I would have burst into tears but all I wanted to shout was 'do you know what I have just gone through' but of course they would have felt guilty that they couldn't do anything so what was the point.

So I think I am trying to say please don't ever be judgemental of others as everyone is going through something. That is part of life and we can get through what ever is thrown at us because it is just an experience we need to explore but there is always some one listening up above in a higher realm of consciousness so we really are never alone. That's not a scary thought - that's a beautiful one if you want to feel that connection and understand your life better.

I have a secret...the priceless gift of your smile

2012-01-09T03:57:00.000-08:00

Around the world millions of people are doing it, Around the world millions wish for it. And in some parts of the world some have rarely seen it. And yet this priceless gift costs us nothing!

We go about our day sometimes with out a care in the world. On other days we carry the woes of the world on our shoulders and nothing can make you happy; yet alone smile. And yet just one smile from a friend or a stranger can lift our hearts and make us feel special.

We often don't consciously think about how we react to such a small simple gesture but it's a priceless gift which is FREE to give! Yep, that's right it costs us nothing. Sometimes £'s or $'s are exchanged in business when a fantastic deal is done and happiness and laughter makes us smile. But so often I can travel on the train or bus and see everyone with their heads down, frightened sometimes to look at people as they are so busy rushing around 24/7 and yet to receive a smile can brighten their day .

We can go to an Event and be ignored. We can live in a street and feel lonely. We can live in a town and know no-one. And yet everyone wants to be acknowledged in some way even if they don't realise it. I am so pleased I live in the country as everyone says 'hello', smiles, we may pat their dogs whilst on their walks but it makes me feel I am never alone as there is always someone willing to help if need be. I know all my neighbours and the local pubs are a hive of friendlyness and yet unfortunately they are dying out which will kill some communities. Is there anything better than sharing a conversation over a meal around your table at home, in a local restaurant or pub with your friends or family and hear laughter buzzing in your ears!

How many of you reading this know your neighbours, your postman or talk to your local shop-keeper and I bet there is a lonely person sitting on their own down your street. Especially the elderly who can fear to go out or mothers with young children who feel sometimes so isolated and would appreciate the gift of your smile as you say 'hello'

Some kids & adults today hide behind computers having 'conversations' on screen! Social Media is fantastic for many things but I truly feel it is killing the art of conversation and personal connection. You can't feel the emotion of a machine. It doesn't smile back at you or make you feel better about yourself if you are having a stressful day. It can't respond in a way to make you feel better or make you feel happier unless you come across something to move you and make you smile. And then no-one else sees that smiles other than the machine!

Some years ago I worked with some colleagues who sat in the same room and emailed each other! Our group were asked to leave this communial office and we were placed in a room out of ear shot as they found us strange! I won't comment on that but I am sure we all know office colleagues who could do with lightening up and finding something - even if it just one small thing - to smile about!

Maybe I am wrong but I smile and talk to people in restaurants, in the street, on the train and yet they are complete strangers. But do you know something....they always smile back.

So why don't we use this wonderful gesture to make the world a better and happier place. Just one extra smile a day to a complete stranger will make them and you feel a lot happier....and it will cost you nothing - just 10 seconds of your time.

Go on I dare you ....because you may never know how you can change someone' life by making them feel special as you give your priceless gift of your smile.

Connecting with yourself

2011-08-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite quotes is from Dr Wayne Dwyer "You cannot be lonely if you like the person you are alone with"

Connecting with yourself to find your sense of peace, intuition, energy, connectedness & passion is the beauty of life. This is what I teach and love to share with people who have just had a lovely 'silent awakening' because they feel different and suddenly feel special.

What is happening is you are feeling the Universal Energy around you and your connection has just become stronger. We are all connected as we are all Energy. Energy is like the wind ....you can feel it but you can't see it.

This can sometimes frighten people because it is alien to them. They sometimes (not always) have never been praised so sometimes their self worth is low, and sometimes they don't really know deep down who they are. They never take the time to sit and feel the stillness around them or hear the whispers from their soul and Higher Self. It frightens them to look within and just plod on in the busy 24/7 world. Looking within can be scary because we are often frighten of what our thoughts really are deep within our sub-conscious minds.

You have just 'woken-up' which can sometimes happen after a life crisis when you take stock and have overcome the grief of a situation. That doesn't necessarily mean a death but a divorce can feel like you are grieving. I know that is what it felt like to me all those years ago.

Many of my clients say "what's happening and why me?" And I say "Why not you" - you are special and loved by all those around you but so often people don't take the time to really 'feel' it. So often we put others first but when we have self love this then overflows into all areas of your life and the people in your life 'feel' you differently as you begin to shine your light. It becomes infectious. When you are happy and a fun person to be around then others will want to be associated with your company.

Self love is never selfish. Self love is a Divine Gift. To be continued........

Your silent awakening - the gift of life

2011-07-12T06:29:00.000-07:00

Explaining what spirituality means to others has been a long standing problem for me until I suddenly realised that it is an inner personal experience which can not be described!

It is a 'knowing' and a relationship that only I can understand and know myself but it is a beautiful inner acceptance of whom I am. I am content inside, happy and accepting and know that I am more than just me. It is something only I can feel as I connect with myself to find my sense of peace, intuition, energy, connectedness and passion for life.

I know that I am enough - just as I am right now. I have no shame or fear but just a beautiful sense of love & belonging as I feel a true sense of the beauty of myself and feel so worthy of a wonderful life.

My self courage comes from my heart and I have compassion for myself and others and acceptance of who they are too - just as I hope they feel worthy and belong to this beautiful Universe that we are all connected too.

I know that when I went into my 'dip' many years ago that the beauty of this turning point was the most amazing 'wake-up' call to life.

My wish for all of you reading this is.....you are beautiful beyond words and just ask the Universe to 'feel' this connection to all that is and your silent awakening will happen as you begin a new sense of love and belonging as we are never alone. You are so much more than you think you are right now. Be proud to be you and understanding of others as we are all unique and special

I wish you all a beautiful silent awakening within. This is the gift of life

Is the Universe a friendly place?

2011-05-18T06:39:00.000-07:00

My answer is yes but then I realised I think I live in a sort of bubble! My world, for as long as I can remember, has always been wonderful, friendly and fascinating with all the quirks that life brings. But it always amazes me when people feel differently to me - hence I sometimes think I don't live in the real world of chaos that other people see and feel.

This question was asked at a workshop I was attending at the weekend and out of 12 delegates only 2 others agreed with me! Everyone else said their life was full of negative circumstances, negative people and even worse... they felt surrounded by hostile feelings about the world in general.

By why do we see the world so differently? I have asked myself this question over the last few days as their viewpoint shocked me. This fast 24/7 pace that we all now live in seems to have taken away so much whilst giving other benefits maybe? The wonders of technology has brought information & knowledge at our finger tips. We can communicate and travel around the world in an instant. We have more freedom and choice than ever before. Life over the last 100 years has changed beyond recognition and much of it for the better but maybe we have lost some of our values which are now missing in many peoples lives.

Families live miles apart, texting and messaging has taken over from face-2-face conversation, many people are bored especially teenagers, people live in isolation as communities break down and people just don't have time for each other as they are too busy doing their thing....but what is their thing? I hear these words 'doing my thing' from many of my clients and younger friends as they just have to be busy all the time - but why? What does that achieve? Oh yes...stress. I forgot that as I don't seem to get stressed very often which is great but again maybe I am odd as people like me aren't the norm anymore!

I could ramble on and on about this but I would love to open this question up and ask for your views. You see ...one of the big questions I feel needs to be mentioned is what about love, precious moments, special people, fun, laughter and all the opportunities out in the big wide world that with a negative mind set people miss and those that are too busy.

Please don't shatter my bubble too much as I love the space I live in but then that is my choice. I don't want to be disillusioned in many ways but then maybe I don't live in reality of what is going on around me as I choose not to feel it too. I wish more people felt like me as it makes me feel serenity for who I am and if we all saw the good in our world that surrounds us, then maybe we would slow down a little and take it all in.

Over to you.....as I leave to search for more answers

Marmite v friends. Like or dislike fun

2011-03-16T09:02:00.000-07:00

I had to laugh recently. I was chatting to a friend about a mutual friend when suddenly she said 'oh she is like Marmite....some people like her whilst others don't!'" I have to say I agree about this person but as I like Marmite & I also liked our mutual friend it got me thinking.

We brand ourselves by the person we are and the image we portray which is really powerful. People often make an instant judgement within the first few minutes of meeting you, even if they don't know you. We all do it without even realising it. Sometimes we pick up on their energy which isn't congruent with ours and take a dislike to them even if others think they are wonderful. On the other hand we can instantly like someone even though we don't know them because they are on the same vibrational energy as we are. Like attracts like and sometimes I have met people whom I have known instantly are going to be in my life for a very long time. Whereas at other times we have to let other people go whom we don't resonate with anymore.

I used to be a Counsellor so obviously came across people who were going through a negative experience but I really don't surround myself with negative friends or anyone negative any more as they just drain your energy. Have you ever thought about the friends in your life like this?

We all move on as we grow and evolve but I find it sad that we do sometimes judge people before we get to know them. Positive & negative people can change, Sometimes it is just their situation which makes them feel negative but their energy and aura will tell you a lot about them so always follow your gut instinct and reaction when you first meet someone but please don't judge anyone. Everyone has good qualities but we may need to take our time to find them because they are not always apparent.

So for some fun - Who or what do you associate with friends? Are some Andrex puppies, Virgin Air Crew (my favourite adverts), or some one annoying like the twits on 118 118? Many people say to me that every time 'Sheila's Wheels' advert comes on the tele they think of me! (That's OK as they are fun skinny blonde ladies)

Have some fun as you go round the office or home but maybe it may be best to keep quiet - I certainly haven't told my friend she is considered like Marmite!

Today is Blue Monday

2011-01-17T04:17:00.000-08:00

Apparently today - the 3rd Monday in January each year - is what people are calling Blue Monday because it is meant to be the most depressive day of the year!

Bills from Christmas arrive on the door mat, the celebrations are over, the weather has been the topic of conversation for too long now, and worst of all the New Year resolutions have gone out the window so maybe not so surprising after all. But it is also one of the most popular days to book your summer holiday so what a contrast.

So how can we not make this a Blue Monday for ourselves? Personally I am all fired up about this year because my focus has changed in a way. I am more determined than ever to make this year the best ever. Why because my passion is still as strong as it has always been but I have realised that I have been procrastinating in many ways. We all do. We all have great ideas and goals we set ourselves but how often do we let them slip just a little bit and then before you know it we have lost the momentum.

I watched a brilliant speaker this morning Brendon Buchard talking about 'Life's Golden Ticket' and can highly recommend him. If you can't find him on Google or YouTube just type in something inspiring and watch any film you fancy. Something funny maybe which will make you laugh.

Or watch any film on TED talks and I hope that something will resonate with you to fire you up again too. Don't let today be a Blue Monday for you. If it is, then just turn it around with something to uplift you and let it go because today is only one day in the rest of your life.

A new idea to expand your business

2011-01-04T03:51:00.000-08:00

I feel great as I suddenly realised something quite powerful. We all think we should set new goals at the beginning of a new year but then how many of us fall down at the first hurdle because some of them are daunting?

Well my goal this year is to succeed in one new goal a month. That's right. One goal a month. That's 12 new goals this year. Gosh it feels quite liberating because that to me is far more realistic and which is something I know I can achieve.

It's not daunting because I have put on my yearly wall chart all the new goals - month by month - as they gradually build up to the final aim of the year. My only decision I had to make was which goal for which month!

And the good news is I have already achieved my goal for January 2011 - expanding my Inspiring Soul Evenings which I run monthly in Essex....I have now bought a new domain name which is 'Inspire Your Soul Events' because I can now make these events day or evening! I can gradually expand into other Counties across the UK which is something I have talked about for ages but never done anything about it. Now I have no excuse!

So what can you do month by month to grow your business? I truly believe that when we take one small step - which is achievable and therefore believable - it can happen. Why not take that first step now. Write down 12 goals, organise which one to start with and then month by month add a different target and then have the lovely feeling of ticking them off as you see yourself achieving them. That really is less daunting and much more realistic don't you think!

Powerful relationship excercise

2010-12-20T07:30:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel as though you and your partner are moving in different directions or failing to understand each other and consider each others needs? This activity shows you how you can re-connect with that special person in your life.

Sit down together and just talk about your feelings. Then, over the next week, separately make a list of five to ten things that you each want out of the relationship. Make another list, of all the things that you love about the other person, and then write down some of the things that have changed over the years. Take your time. When you both have your lists ready, arrange some quality time when there will be just the two of you, and spend the evening discussing each and every item on each list.

I hope this activity enables you both to discuss openly the key elements of your relationship. I also hope that it encourages mutual respect.

You will probably find that other issues come out, which are not contained within your lists; it may be painful to discuss these. However, if someone is unhappy, surely it is better to talk about problems and feelings, rather than just hiding them? This is when so often things start to go wrong in long term relationships. This can help re-build the relationship and is a very worthwhile exercise.

Taken from my book Master Your Own Destiny - page 127

Stepping outside our comfort zone

2010-12-01T05:18:00.000-08:00

Well I have to say this was fun but scary at the same time. Creating my first video was a daunting experience as I find speaking into a none human object much harder than speaking to a human or even a large audience! It doesn't seem real; which of course it isn't but having someone to chat to helped as I felt I was speaking to him and it flowed more naturally.

This is something I have put off for so long but now I think I have got the bug. It was and still is something I feel I have loads to learn as to accomplish a smooth flowing chat/video is important but at least it shows I am natural because of the mistakes and slight hesitations. But I also didn't realise how often I blinked - this I thought was amusing so trying to talk and keep my eyes open at the same time is not that easy.

If you want to watch and comment I would greatly appreciate your feedback because as I say there is loads for me to learn....but please be gentle with me. I could have chatted for hours as to describe my life in a nutshell was difficult to say the least. Anyway I hope you enjoy it as much as I did making it and love to all who view http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TB_-sRI42I

Can you explain something hard to put into words...would love to hear your views

2010-11-01T12:05:00.000-07:00

I have been chatting to like minded friends on how I can explain the feeling of a silent awakening. We just can't find the words to describe this beautiful experience - especially if this has just started to happen to you. People may feel vunerable, emotional, confused as they don't know where or who to turn to. Also the word 'spiritual' puts so many people off and it shouldn't as it has nothing to do with religion.

When this beautiful experience happened to me over 17 years ago I never felt like that. It excited me as I knew I was safe and loved but not sure how I knew! I just had delicious tingles and pictures when my eyes were shut which I knew I didn't create myself. I couldn't explain it so I just embraced this wonderful feeling but I couldn't talk to many of my friends as they would have thought I had lost the plot! Thankfully I began to meet like minded souls and read all I could but now I love to help others just on the verge of beginning to blossom.

Nothing gives me more pleasure as I gently guide, advise and help people understand what is happening and how they can begin to feel that inner-peace that this brings. But marketing this un-explained feeling and experience has been really difficult for me and would love to hear your thoughts and words that may resonate with so many who are just beginning to want to find more meaning in their lives too.

Thanks for your help and excited that I may soon have some answers

My new FREE mini course just for you

2010-10-20T04:20:00.000-07:00

I have just launched my new mini 'wake up to life' course and I am really pleased to be offering this to you.

I wanted to give you a taste of how you can get more from life but in a different format to my books or my Home Study Course which I will be launching soon - hopefully towards the end of this year.

The course will take you on a journey to get rid of some of the negatives in life which will allow you to bring in much more positive thoughts, fun, happiness, love, money plus much more and help you get to where you want to be both personally and professionally

If you want to start a new business, change jobs/change your relationships or just get more sparkle back into your life I hope that this course will give you the confidence to do this.

Have fun and please do let me know how you get on. Here's the link http://www.sheilasteptoe.com/ecoursesignup.html

The benefits of releasing....

2010-09-24T06:19:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been having Kinesiology for a bad habit of mine and the old hidden blocks that have come up have been amazing.

Events stored deep within my subconscious mind suddenly appeared again and by recognising them, acknowledging and letting them go has had a profound affect.

Many of these blocks are not connected to my habit, or so I thought, but even so to clear and release them has been so benificial. It's also been an extremely interesting process. I thought I would be much more emotional but strangely I am not. Yes emotion has come into it but the fascination of what we hold onto has been much more interesting to me.

We all hold blocks within our subconscious minds...whether we are aware of them or not. It's normal as so many events happen during our lives and of course our subconscious minds remembers them all. It's our computers system you could say and sometimes we feel we have dealt with 'stuff' (as I thought I had) but hidden in our minds it still rests.

There are many ways to release these blocks which we can do ourselves or get some help from a professional. There are also some wonderful books to help with the process. One that springs to mind is 'Feel the fear and do it anyway' by Susan Jeffers. Fears are connected sometimes to our blocks too.

Something I wrote about recently also springs to mind - 'Fear is just the unknown' and that powerful statement is true too. The unknown of our way forward and the unknown hidden in our past.

Forgiveness of ourselves and others is a huge healing process. No one is perfect - and who or what is perfect anyway!!

Everyone should have one

2010-09-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

A Mastermind group is what I highly recommend. Last night a group of my friends and clients came and we brainstormed something I have been trying to work on for ages myself.

What an evening. They grilled me, complimented me and gave me ideas which I can use because the feedback meant such a lot to me.

Sometimes we try to do everything ourselves and so many people want to help but often we just don't like to ask. We should because it works. All ideas pooled together are powerful.

So this is something I shall be doing on a regular basis and if you are not a member of a Mastermind group why not set one up. It's so beneficial to all involved.

Next month we will do it for someone else in the group and so it goes on. I should have done this years ago ....but never to late to learn new tricks

Fear is just the unknown

2010-08-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

We all have fears to some degree at some time in our life. That's normal but there are many types of fear - scary events like flying, speaking out, lack of confidence, being truthfull, success in business, lack of money, creepy crawlies, heights, not finding a partner and the list goes on.

But I was listening to some CD's recently on overcoming fear and the person speaking suddenly said 'fear is just the unknown' Wow... that is powerful and so true. It really is the unknown that scares us. I think once we understand this it makes it so much more acceptable to fear our reactions or even to let go of the guilt we may feel because we really don't have any idea of the outcome.

Our fears can be part of our conditioning or from past experiences but each fear is different but it is how we react that makes the difference. Let go of fear because we also attract what we don't want so we are drawing this particular fear to us. We attract into our life the positives as well as the negatives. For example 'Lack of....' Well really you will get 'lack of ....' as that is what you are expecting. Change your self talk and your change the outcome.

So hopefully these little few words - 'Fear is just the unknown' - can help you release a particular fear and let the unknown flow into our lives. That is when things often turn out much better than we expected! We fear so we expect the worst. Visualise, trust and expect the best outcome and you maybe pleasently surprised!

100/0 Principle | 100/0 Principle

2010-08-24T01:01:00.000-07:00

This little short film has always been my principle and is so true. If everyone thought like this, the world would be a better place. 100/0 Principle 100/0 Principle

Be nice to yourself and others and the world will be nice to you - simple

I hope you enjoy

Sheila

The Magic of Believing in yourself

2010-08-13T02:27:00.000-07:00

Here's an article I wrote recently for 'sofeminine.co.uk' which is a fabulous website. I hope you enjoy http://www.sofeminine.co.uk/personal-life/self-help-self-belief-d15042.html

The benefits of affirmations

2010-08-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

Today I really realised how powerful affirmations are. I think a short saying is much easier to remember and therefore much easier not to forget! So often we start with all good intentions to keep up the process of saying something daily but over a period of time we sometimes lapse as other things get in the way.

A good way to do this is to record something you can listen to on your IPod so you hear it over and over again and it then penetrates into your subconscious mind - and of course we can then create it.

The saying I have been imprinting into my mind is "I attract a flow of money infinitely more than I could ever spend myself in my lifetime"

I love it. It's simple, powerful and above all it's about sharing my new found wealth with others. Personally I think it is important to give to others, whether it's your time or money as what you give out flows back to you. That's the beauty.

The flow of money is just energy. When we don't have much money that's when it's hard to understand this concept but when you realise the flow of money (as above) it suddenly all makes sense. Enjoy your new found wealth

Something we should all do more often

2010-07-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

What's that you may say....Well I feel refreshed, lively and full of new ideas today - why - because I had what I call a 'me' time day today. A friend has breast cancer and I decided to take her out for some lunch and we had such a lovely chilling day down by the river.

We watched the boats sail, the children shrimping and sailing, dipped our toes in the water and I didn't feel one bit guilty at all. I didn't answer my phone, look at my emails or even think about work as I turned my blackberry off.

It's so tempting to take a sneak look, answer the calls or even send messages when you are away from the office but hey people can leave a message! Nothing is so urgent that it can't wait a few hours. If it was they would call 999 and I wouldn't have been able to get there in time anyway.

The times I walk around a supermarket and people are answering stupid calls "what shall I get for dinner" "what time will you be home" - gosh what did we do before mobiles??

We had the old fashioned telephone box and I won't mention my age but it used to have 'press A or B' on it = remember them! Well we managed in those days as we weren't on call 24/7.

One last thing - a friends husband takes his mobile to bed - just in case the boss wants to speak to him ............and he wonders why his marriage is in trouble!

That's says it all really

What a beautiful feeling of inspiration

2010-06-14T01:06:00.000-07:00

When a plan comes together - what a beautiful feeling of inspiration. I realised this last Friday when I ran my spiritual & personal growth workshop for the first time this year. The joy from hearing the feedback has inspired me to run these again on a regular basis so others can begin to take the leap of faith they have been searching for.

The venue: Hylands House was superb. The group were all like minded people and I always realise that sharing amongst the group is an important part so we can all help each other. To know that others feel the same sometimes gives clarity that you are not alone. We all have doubts, fears and stumbling blocks but we all have so much more inside of ourselves if we find the courage to take that huge leap of faith and follow our dreams.

So a wonderful group have gone their seperate ways to achieve their own goals by 'waking up' to a better life. They now have new tools, a new understanding and a new insight that we can all achieve so much more by taking away one important lesson - small steps are believable...and therefore achievable. Each step you take - takes you one step nearer to where you want to be.

Nothing has to be daunting if you learn how powerful you are as a person. It's nearly all in your mind and your connection to yourself. This beauty then overflows into all areas of your life - enjoy the journey.

Meditation or some 'me time' is officially good for you

2010-05-12T03:41:00.001-07:00

Great news in the national papers today. 60% of people who work over-time or who don't have a good work/life balance are more likely to suffer heart attacks.

When ever I have given a talk, I always ask the audience to put their hands up if they have a little bit of what I call 'me time' and it amazes me how many don't. "24/7 life gets in the way" "I haven't got time" "I'm stressed as have a family to look after" or "too busy at work" are some of the common excuses.

But stress is caused by too much overload. Taking 10, 15, or 30 minutes a day to do something for yourself can have an amazing affect. It reduces your stress levels and your thinking becomes clearer and your energy raises.

Many people feel guilty if they spend some quality time on themselves. PLEASE DON'T. It is the best thing you can do for yourself and those around you. You will feel more relaxed, less stressed and after a while a happier person.

Sit down with the kids, share a meal around the table with friends or family, read a quick chapter of book, listen to music or go and see a film or show you have wanted to see for ages is quality time. Go for a social drink with colleagues. Laugh and chat with friends on the phone - anything you can think of - is worth putting those worries aside for a few precious moments. OK they may not go away but you will have clearer thinking and you maybe surprised at the ideas that pop into your head - when you are having a bit of special 'me time'.

Life really doesn't have to be so stressful when you start to combine it with a bit of fun. Enjoy your special time and try to make this a regularly thing you do. You'll soon see the difference.

Unlocking my soul

2010-05-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

"Once you start to awaken to your soul's true calling, no one can ever claim you again, for when the old patterns reappear in your life, you can somehow look upon them with amusement. They can never affect you as they used to"

I read those words recently and realised that I have found a truth so exquisitely beautiful that when I connected to it, my life could never be the same again. I had found the wisdom within my heart and soul.

It is as though I can take a step back and be in the stillness of life with a peace and inner-knowing surrounding me as my beautiful journey unfolds like magic and I feel serenity.

I have begun to feel and see a whole world of possibilities open up before me as synchronicity has come to help. It's like having personal access to a larger universe and I have realised that I have awakened to the meaning of my life.

And what a beautiful feeling this is. I wish you all could feel this too. Open your mind and you open your heart which unlocks your soul. Enjoy your journey

Getting older, I decided, is a gift

2010-04-16T05:39:00.000-07:00

I am now, at my tender age, realising that maturity brings the beautiful gift of contentment and freedom. Long gone are the days of worrying about the size of my bum, has another wrinkle appeared on my face, and when I look in the mirror I love being me!

I wouldn't trade my amazing friends, my lovely life, my lovely family for less grey hair or a flatter belly! Now I am not saying that it was always like this - as the baggy eyes may have come from the tears, but the wrinkles are my laughter lines. The high heels have been replaced with flaties but I have to say don't feel nearly so sexy. But then I don't worry so much that I am 2 dress sizes bigger than when my waist was my prize possesion.

Oh why do we worry so. The media make it all so much worse. What will our friends/colleagues/neighbours think if we do something silly whilst having fun. I've fallen over many times from too much wine but have I been spied on from the net curtain peeping bridgade - I have no idea as I don't care anymore.

As I've aged I've become more kind to myself, less critical of myself as you see I have become my own best friend. What I wish for the world is that everyone can become their own best friend. What a beautiful place it would be.

Now I want to ask you one important question "how can you become your own best friend"?

'Wake up' to a better life - one day workshop

2010-04-12T07:01:00.000-07:00

Personal Transformation life changing workshop on April 23rd has a few remaining places. Please share these details with friends and colleagues - all welcome - http://www.sheilasteptoe.com/workshops.html

Looking within yourself

2010-04-10T01:34:00.001-07:00

To grow as a person and to feel more comfortable in our own skin, sometimes we have to look within to understand what maybe holding us back.

In our subconscious minds we often store unwanted negative emotions which we are often not aware of, but they can sabotage our thinking. These blocks maybe thoughts and emotions from a childhood experience. Something may have happened when you were a teenager/or adult and they don't necessarily have to be major events but often they are triggers of fears held within you and your subconscious mind.

The best way to look within is to take some time out and ask your Higher Self to bring these thoughts to the fore through meditation or just a stillness of your mind. You may need help through a therapist who can assist you but choose one that you feel comfortable with.

Sometimes you may have a magical 'Aha' moment when the light bulb switches on but often this can take time as it is a beautiful healing process and well worth doing. Often tears will flow, maybe even a few days later, but please remember one very important element - you need to be gentle with yourself.

Loving yourself

2010-04-02T04:55:00.000-07:00

Having a great relationship with yourself is the basis for understanding yourself and the many things that happen in life. Learn to love yourself - just as you are - is magical because we are all special and unique.

Everything that has happened in your life has happened for a reason - the good and the bad - and if you can learn to accept this and work through some of the events you become a much stronger person.

Everyone is different and we all have qualities which we sometimes forget. No-one is perfect as I don't think there is such a thing! And what or who is perfect anyway as everyone sees different things in different people so don't compare yourself to anyone else.

Enjoy being you and then your relationship with yourself will over flow into all areas of your life so you can start having more fun, excitement and laughter. Enjoy your day

Confidence

2010-03-31T04:02:00.000-07:00

Confidence comes when we learn to accept ourselves as we are. How often do you praise yourself for some of the things you have achieved? So often these things get forgotten and we British are brought up to believe that we should not boast. But praising yourself (and others) is not boasting!

We all achieve so much more than we sometimes realise. Even something small can have a profound affect on our confidence if we let our light shine. So often we concentrate on the negatives in life instead of the positives and our flame goes out. Why not re-light that flame?

Make a list of all the things you have achieved over your lifetime and you may surprise yourself. Take some time to do this and even if you don't shout to others about this, just know within yourself so that you can grow into a more confident person. Having an inner-knowing is a wonderful feeling which you will radiate out to others.

Next Inspiring Soul Evening

2009-10-20T03:35:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 3rd November 2009
A NEW LOOK - A NEW OUTLOOK!

Has the recession left you feeling blue? Image consultant Margaret Fleming is the Christian Dior of our day, taking you on a journey for a New Look at a time when we may just need that boost of self esteem.
How much time do you spend admiring someone else’s clothes, hair and confidence? In reality is probably much longer than you actually spend on improving your own image and becoming the person you most want to be. As the November guest speaker at the Inspiring Soul Evening in Chelmsford, Margaret demonstrates how changing your image can help improve your confidence both at work and in your personal life.
How you dress can be a reflection of your feelings on the inside. Just as a few minutes of laughter can put us in a good mood for a whole day, or a tidy room can make us feel so much better and our choice of clothing can be a life changing uplift. With a wealth of knowledge and experience in creating the personal image, Margaret will share inspirational stories and show you and your friends how choosing the right clothes, colours and hairstyles can have an impact on how other people treat you.
Learn to work your wardrobe and make the most of yourself. With your own new style you can earn the response that your personality deserves. Now is the time to recognise your assets, choose the right clothes and flaunt the new you!
Launched as part of Inspiring Soul Evenings held by motivational speaker, spiritual mentor and author Sheila Steptoe, the event will be held on 3rd November, 7.15pm-9.15pm at Waltham Bistro, Regiment Way Golf Centre, Back Lane, Little Waltham, nr Chelmsford, CM3 3PR.
For just £10 (Concessions £5) with FREE refreshments, book a place or just turn up on the night. Bring two friends along and you’ll get in for free. Please contact sheila@sheilasteptoe.com or call on 01245 361274.
For media enquiries please contact caroline@thewriteimpression.co.uk or call 0845 5272 801

Next Inspiring Soul Evening

2009-09-22T01:53:00.000-07:00

Tuesday October 6th 2009

What is holding you back?

Does everything you do seem like a struggle?
Would you like to know how to improve your health, wealth, happiness and relationships, or want to know how to reach your full potential?

Guest speaker at the October Inspiring Soul Evening, Michael Bradford has developed the amazing ability to intuitively scan and accurately read the subtle energy patterns both within and around people and can precisely pinpoint the exact cause of a person’s blockages. Michael is also able to release those blockages, automatically improving all areas of the person’s life, including health, relationships, prosperity and business.

Michael is an internationally renowned Healer, Intuitive and Business Mentor. His approach is simple, quick, effective and logical and his work has astounded medical professionals, traditional therapists and business owners. Entrepreneurs and business people worldwide seek Michael’s guidance, coaching and mentorship.

At the Inspiring Soul Evening, Michael will give an inspiring interactive talk with demonstrations. Participants will gain insights, encouragement and a clear understanding of how they can break free from the issues that sabotage them or hold them back, changing their life forever. Audiences worldwide have been enthralled by Michael’s simple, yet extremely powerful approach with life-changing results that speak for themselves.

The Inspiring Soul Evenings are organised by Sheila Steptoe, a spiritual advisor, mentor and author. Sheila says, ‘We may often feel like something is holding us back but we don’t always have the ability to understand why, Michael has a wonderful gift, which he is willing to share with us. I personally can’t wait for this workshop.’

The Beyond Karma, Miracles & Magic Workshop, part of the Inspiring Soul Evening, is being held on Tuesday October 6 at Waltham Bistro, Regiment Way Golf Centre, Back Lane, Little Waltham, Essex CM3 3PR from 7.15pm(doors open 6.45pm). Entry costs just £10, £5 concessions or free if you bring along two guests. Free refreshments are also provided.

For more information and booking contact Sheila Steptoe 01245 361274 www.sheilasteptoe.com
Ends

For media enquiries please contact caroline@thewriteimpression.co.uk or call 0845 5272 801

Inspiring Soul Evening

2009-08-14T06:27:00.000-07:00

Tuesday September 1st 2009

Debt Counselling of a Different Kind!

If you are in debt, have been struggling with money or even find yourself short of cash on a regular basis it is likely you would consider getting advice from a financial advisor or debt counsellor – but what if your debt problems have more to do with your personal psychology than what is actually in your wallet?
Max Eames, a psychotherapist, coach and author is September’s guest speaker at the monthly Inspiring Soul Evening being held near Chelmsford.
During the two-hour workshop, Max plans to help participants discover why it’s often so hard, despite our best intentions, to keep our hands in our pockets and our money in our wallets.
Individuals will also have the opportunity to gain some powerful insights into who they are as a person, as well as strategies they can use to turn their beliefs and values to their best advantage.
So if you seem to be ‘cash-strapped’ month after month, Max’s aim is to help you figure out what can be done about it.
The Inspiring Soul Evenings are organised by Sheila Steptoe, a spiritual advisor, mentor and author. Sheila says, ‘at a time when we are all very conscious of where our money goes, Max’s help, advice and insights should be of benefit to us all.’ The Inspiring Soul Evenings have been going very well since their inception a few months ago and Sheila is expecting a full house in September to hear Max’s words of wisdom.
The Money Psychology workshop is being held at the Inspiring Soul Evening, Waltham Bistro, Regiment Way Golf Centre, Back Lane, Little Waltham, Essex CM3 3PR from 7.15pm(doors open 6.45pm). Entry costs just £10, £5 concessions or free if you bring along two guests. Free refreshments are also provided.

For more information and booking contact Sheila Steptoe 01245 361274 www.sheilasteptoe.com

About Max Eames
A London-based psychotherapist, coach and author, Max facilitates long-lasting personal transformations for those who recognise the need to challenge both self-defeating behaviours and self-limiting beliefs. http://www.maxeames.com/ tel:0207 274 3800

For media enquiries and images contact caroline@thewriteimpression.co.uk or call 0845 5272 801

Inspiring Soul Evening

2009-07-25T01:08:00.000-07:00

August 4th 2009
Inspiring Soul Evenings™

Discover who you are using Astrology with
Cathy Flynn
&
Career fulfilment with Wendy
Dashwood-Quick

Confused about your path in life?

£10.00 - Concessions £5
Bring two friends along and get in for free! FREE refreshments
Doors open 6:45pm for 7.15pm—9.15pm
Waltham Bistro @Regiment Way Golf Centre,
Back Lane, Little Waltham, Essex CM3 3PR

Cathy Flynn says, ‘Astrology offers fascinating insights into who we are and why we are who we are. We are all born with a particular set of tools built into our characters and personalities, which we can use to build our lives’. During the workshop Cathy will explain why this information is extremely useful to help us better understand ourselves and those around us.

Wendy Dashwood-Quick is a Personal Development and Executive Coach and founder of Resolution Coaching. With the use of some new techniques, Wendy helps her clients work more effectively, regain their self confidence and clarify their life purpose. Through her studies and work as a Coach, she has documented much of her expertise, turning it into a book called "Discover Yourself On the Yellow Brick Road – 7 Core Principles of Career Success". Wendy will be talking about her book and will give a short demonstration of one of the techniques she specialises in – EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).

To book your place please contact sheila@sheilasteptoe.com 01245 361274 www.sheilasteptoe.com or just pop along on the night.

Inspiring Soul Evenings

2009-03-16T04:28:00.000-07:00

Next event

Tuesday July 7th
How to get what you really want
Discover the possibilities with Sheila Steptoe as she launches her second book Master Your Own Destiny

Following on from the hugely successful 'Before I Get Old and Wrinkly', Sheila's second book Master Your Own Destiny shows us how to create the life we have always dreamed of. Sheila talks frankly about her own journey from rock-bottom to being a successful business woman she is today, and explains we all have the tools within us to seize the life we have always wanted.

Book launch 6pm with wine & canapes
Workshop from 7.15pm-9.15pm with refreshments

FREE entry this month only! Book price £10 launch offer (rrp £12.49)

The Waltham Bistro @ Regiment Way Golf Centre,
Back Lane, Little Waltham, nr Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3PR

To book your place please contact Sheila Steptoe on 01245 361274

http://www.sheilasteptoe.com/ or just pop along on the night

Inspiring Soul Evening

June 2nd

An evening with Tom Evans

The Art & Science of Light Bulb Moments
Have you ever had a blinding flash of inspiration?
Have you ever seen the ‘big picture’ in less than a second and wondered where it came from?
Would you like to learn how to have light bulb moments on demand?
To find out the answers to these questions, come and listen to author and Mind Map Master Trainer, Tom Evans introduce The Art & Science of Light Bulb Moments.
Here’s what one previous attendee said about it:
“Even the most hard-headed (and left brained !) of businessmen would have enjoyed and taken away something really useful from your session.”
This is an interactive presentation where you will experience one, if not two or more, actual light bulb moments. Not only that but you will learn how to take the ideas you have and actually make them happen. You will learn about Whole Brain Thinking and Whole Mind Thinking and how our conscious minds can actually get in the way of the creative process.
Come along with a problem or an opportunity and you might well walk away with a solution. This could well be just what you are looking for in these credit crunchy days. Remember there is no such thing as coincidence. If you are reading this, then it’s even possible that this event could be a pivotal moment in your life _______________________________________________________
Inspiring Soul Evening

June 2nd

Tom Evans is an author and poet who coaches and mentors other writers as to how to unleash their books inside.
He has published an inspiring trilogy of meditative poetic stories called ‘100 Years of Ermintrude’ and two interactive elearning programmes for writers. This year he is publishing a new novel called Soulwave which explores cutting-edge thinking into consciousness, evolution and cosmology.
In addition to his innate talent as a creative writer, his 30 year career in the broadcasting and Internet industries has given him considerable commercial acumen and an understanding of advanced technologies.
He became fascinated by light bulb moments when he started meditating and creative writing.

Inspiring Soul Evenings
Meeting date: 2nd June 2009
Meeting times:
Doors open 6:45pm for 7.15pm -9.15pm. You are welcome to meet informally with others before and after the event in the lovely licenced bar and restaurant.
7.15pm: Main talk with refreshment break and cake at 8.15pm
Venue:
Regiment Way Golf Centre, Pratts Farm Lane, Little Waltham, nr Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3PR (very easy to find off the A12 & A130 Essex Regiment Way)
Parking: Free
Train:
Chelmsford and then taxi
Cost:
£10.00 - Concessions £5. Free Coffee, Tea and Cake in break
*Bring two+ friends along and get in for free*

_________________________________________________________________
Dates for your diary for 2009:
July 7th – Sheila Steptoe. Inspiring talk and book signing ‘Master Your Own Destiny’
August 4th - Two speakers for this event:
Wendy Dashwood-Quick – Career fulfillment
Cathy Flynn - Astrology

September 1st - Max Eames – Under the Hood – The breakthrough belief system to attract more money to flow to you

Inspiring Soul Evening
MAY 5TH 2009

Everyone is more amazing than they believe

How much better will you feel after an evening of inspiring speakers, uplifting stories, and higher-minded connections? Imagine how good it will feel to have fun and chat openly about your beliefs and be supported and accepted?

Remember: “A mind once stretched, does not resume its old dimensions.”

You never know how far an idea will take you! Whether you have your own spiritual path or none or are just curious…you are very welcome so come along!

To inspire our first meeting, International Speaker: Gary Plunkett, will present, “Cake, love and forgiveness!” a true story of how you can be inspired by timeless Hawaiian wisdom to create your life exactly as you want to live it. Please see details below for more information on Gary

Gary has spent over 10 years discovering and using the timeless life-tools and techniques to success, and now coach’s ordinary people to extraordinary lives.
He is the founder of Soul Cake Inspiring Evenings around the UK, and runs successful life changing Workshops and Retreats in UK, USA and Hawaii.

What does success mean to you?

2007-10-11T01:29:00.000-07:00

Success means different things to different people but one thing I have learnt is that no one else can create your success for you.

Others can help you achieve your goals, your aspirations and your dreams but until you have Inner Success and a belief in yourself - it can be hard to feel Inner Peace. An amazing feeling and perhaps the most important success of all.

But how do we get Inner Peace and a belief in ourselves? I hope over the coming months that I can begin to show and help you but the true person who can help you is you.

'When you learn to be - you set yourself free'

We all have fears, doubts and stumbling blocks but we all have so much talent, spirit and potential within us too. You do actually have the tools and talents to find or recapture yours but sometimes we need support. When you have and feel inner success, that is when you can enhance your life by filling it with much more passion, purpose and fun! That is success in it's finest form.

So many people feel that to have money is the answer to their happiness. Happiness comes from the inside - not material possessions. I would like to share with you this Chinese Proverb

Money
It can buy you a house - but never a home
It can buy you a clock - but never time
It can buy you a position - but never respect
It can buy you a bed - but never sleep
It can buy you a book - but never knowledge
It can buy you medicines - but not health
It can buy you acquaintances - but never friends
It can buy you blood - but not life
It can buy you sex - but not love

Of course money is important, necessary and can buy you fun and the finer things in life but it is not everything. I believe that to become rich in money and rich in yourself is all about sharing with others and then money does buy you happiness.

So what does success and happiness mean to you? A very powerful question which you may like to think about. But what you can also do is start praising yourself for all the success you have achieved so far. Remember all your achievements and see how far you have already come. Probably further than you think!

Remind yourself of all the beautiful things that surround you and the people in your life. What more could you want? The beauty of life is all the success you need. The rest will just follow. By following your passion, your dream and your life's blue print - you will feel like a dove with a beautiful inner knowing.

Enjoy your journey. Life is to be enjoyed not endured.

About Sheila

2007-09-18T05:52:00.001-07:00

After more than twenty years in a corporate sales environment, I sat down to write a letter to my children. There were things I thought they needed to know. That letter became a book 'Before I Get Old and Wrinkly!'

My book is becoming a best seller and it has changed my life beyond my wildest dreams. My life has been challenging but I turned my life around and if I can do it, so can you. How I did it has become material for inspiring presentations. I now give motivational talks and run Self Success workshops. It has also lead me to appear on ITV and BBC Radio.

Through my positive attitude I turned my challenges into opportunities and difficulties into truimphs. I have not done anything that you could not do yourself.

I have now written a second book called Master Your Own Destiny which gives you even more tools and techniques to turn your own life around and it has more of a spiritual twist.

This has been a fantastic journey for me and I hope to turn my latest book into information products like an e-course, CD, tele-seminars and an e-book so please do watch this space for more details.

I have created a newsletter and this weblog for you to give you some tips and gentle reminders as tools to help you rise to your own challenges. I am passionate about helping others turn their lives around and to help everyone reach their own goals in life and to enjoy their journey. We are all on a journey but how we get through it is up to each and every one of us.

If I can do this in a presentation for you or if you would like more information about my workshops please see Events pages on my website http://www.sheilasteptoe.com/

The Secret to You..A Gift From The Secret Scrolls.

2007-09-13T08:21:00.001-07:00