Burlington Photographer - Celebrating the beauty and wisdom of women over 40
Creating a life of health, happiness, and purpose
Who knows how tough it is to be a new immigrant? Being a single mom of three children? With no close friends and family by your side?
The first five years after my family moved to Canada were the most challenging for me. It was lots to learn and discover (sometimes in a hard way), separation and divorce, my mother’s sickness. At moments it felt all my efforts were not worth the sacrifice to become a Canadian resident.
There was a moment I realized something very important was missing in my life and that was my happiness.
Everything I did was because it fitted in my family schedule or because it was a part of my family life but not because I was excited about doing it.
It was not only part of being a busy single mom but also not knowing my true passions. For example, I did downhill skiing and kung fu because that’s what my kids were involved with. It was convenient and it was sort of fun but not really.
Happiness
Now when I realized that my life is completely flat, I started questioning myself what makes me feel happy. I started trying different things – one thing at a time- and discovered belly dancing. It’s a beautiful type of dance that I enjoyed doing for years before I accidentally discovered Latin dance. When I dance or even listen to Latin music (salsa, bachata, merengue) I forget about the rest of the world. I also discovered a community of dancers, nice and fun guys, and gals!
Health
Swimming, my second passion, is not just feeling great being in the water (I’m a water person) but a very efficient workout when I do my laps wearing fins. Besides, I love taking a sauna or steam room after it. I always leave my gym in my best spirit and can feel the energy in every cell of my body.
Purpose
Like any job in sales, a career as a real estate broker is not an easy one. I love my job, my clients, and their homes. Once I discovered a fascinating world of interior design, I wanted to learn about it in depth. It took me a few years and numerous educational courses to add this competency to my list. One of the most eye-opening experiences was to do full interior decorating (with curtains and rugs) for a 2400sq ft home alongside a professional interior designer. Unbelievable how staging may change the space and always helps to win great sales/lease price and/or a great tenant.
I look at the things I’m passionate about as a whole picture. I can’ imagine how I could live prior to discovering them. They make me feel excited and help me to achieve my purpose by maintaining a positive attitude and good energy and boosting my creativity.
My advice for all of you: look for your passions till you find them, stay healthy and active and it will help to achieve your purpose in life!
