Girl power via the IWLC conference

Yesterday, I got the fortunate opportunity to go to the iowa women's leadership conference, courtesy of work.  Being a first time attendee, I was eager to experience the amazing feeling of empowerment you get being in a room of 1000 current/aspiring women leaders.  Having been part of a male dominated profession, often being the only woman on my team, it was awe-inspiring and left me humbled.  It was also motivating in that way where when you get up the next day you just aren't satisfied with the size of your world and you are READY to make it bigger!  

While the whole conference was excellent, Deborah Spar and Hoda Kotb were phenomenal. I got both their books!  And I have to say, I'm not really a crier, but Hoda had me in tears not once but 3 times??  She described her life's journey in a way that drew you in close like it was just the two of you girlfriends over coffee (or a glass of red wine!).  Her ah ha moments completely resonated with all that I've been absorbing over the past months.  Here's a quick list, in my own words, hope it inspires you to attend next year!!:

Hold tight to the things you love and let the rest go (she's divorced, hee hee).  

Embrace the people on your journey and share you story-it could be life changing for someone else and maybe it was never meant to be just your story.  

Don't be afraid to share your big moment with someone else, two moments is better than one.

Harness your passion for helping others to propel you past your fears.

When you find yourself dwelling on a negative thought, try to flip the perspective.  If you can point out the silver lining, you are on the first step to conquering it.

Confidence is the thing that translates thoughts into action.