As many of you know, I’m passionate about the aging woman and the aging community at large. In a conversation this morning with a government employee working in an aging department of the County, I was given an opportunity to teach The Art of Mindful Aging, a series I created to empower aging adults.
The businesswoman and the community advocate in me were both present on this call. The part of me that wants to provide information free of charge was so enthusiastic about this chance to reach into the minds and hearts of seniors. To support their journey, listen to their needs and be a modern-day Joan of Arc for the aging in my city.
The businesswoman aspect in me listened intently, calculating the cost to me personally to teach this series for free, once again. She reminded me of the five years it took to develop this course while working full time, beta testing the series, and refining it. The on-going cost of a virtual assistant, social media, along with other associated costs.
I thought of the third module of my program that addresses value, wisdom and what an individual has gained throughout their life and work experience. It is a powerful moment to understand all one has learned, and to know, really know, that this knowledge now lives in your body as wisdom.
Was I turning my back on my well-earned wisdom or was I being overly excited about empowering seniors, even if it took a big personal toll? Was I kicking my hard work to the curb by not charging for this series? Sabotaging myself and the series?
I didn’t feel good about saying yes, but I didn’t feel good about saying no. I heard the wise words of my public speaking coach, Michelle Barry Franco, “it’s ok to do free, if there is a good reason to do so, i.e., you can build your client list, or the event will lead to other opportunities.”
The businesswoman in me went back to the government employee and asked some demographic questions. Building a client list didn’t sound promising. And it was fairly certain that teaching at this Center would not lead to other opportunities. His responses brought me closer to a resolution I could live with.
My community advocate self took a step back and honored my hard work and diligence and realized it might not be fair to me and the body of work to give it away quite like this.
Once again, I called the government employee and asked that we keep this conversation open, and I would think about the viability of offering my series for free if I could teach closer to my home, rather than at the Center 30 miles from my home. To my surprise, the government employee said, “I would agree, that makes sense.” He almost apologized to me for having to enforce a policy that didn’t allow for charging seniors.
I learned about boundaries, commitment, and my value today. A good day, for this Goddess.
When is the last time you had to evaluate your worth and act on your wisdom?
To your mindful aging,
Denise
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You’re Invited ….
Join Denise on Sunday, August 12 from 1-3 pm
Understanding Your Value and Wisdom as You Age
Bindupoint Center for Presence
17547 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 106
Encino, CA 91316
www.bindupoint.com
R.S.V.P. 818.616.4167