In This Issue...

Reflections
Upcoming Workshops and Events
News/Announcements
Mini-Reflection Exercise
This Issue's Sponsor

Reflections (Teresa Thomas-Carroll, director)

It's the month of love and we're thinking of those we hold close in our hearts. Let's add a twist to this love tonic and consider what endears us about our work, whether it's a paid job or what we consider to be our life's purpose.

Like a long-term personal relationship, we might have gotten stuck in unfulfilling patterns, begun to take what we have for granted or forgotten what made our hearts race in the beginning when we were first drawn to this work. Aspects that originally felt exhilarating and challenging, we may now think of as obtrusive and difficult. By simply reframing how we view our work, we can rekindle the motivation for what we do. I even find that when I have a positive outlook on my tasks rather than a sense of drudgery, I become more efficient and satisfied with my results.

Last month's issue focused on regaining clarity for our vision. Ever since I've started getting back into focus, the lyrics "Falling In Love Again..." have been running through my mind. As I come back to my vision, I'm rediscovering everything I love about my work and getting back to my core passions. Things are feeling easier, fun and exciting again.

I hope that you'll take some time this month to think about what and who you love and why.

Use the mini-reflection exercise to reflect on what you love about your work.

Upcoming Workshops and Events

(click on titles to view flyers)

Creativity & Tea: open creativity studio in St. Paul
2nd Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. The next one is Feb. 11. We'll serve "Passion" tea, chocolate and have some special extra art supplies just in time for those who want to make Valentine's creations. Come alone, with a friend or a loved one. (Or schedule your group - perfect for a fun gathering or celebration!) Host: Teresa Thomas-Carroll

Circling E-Course: Women’s Stories (pilot session, only $7!)
Come join an online journaling group, find a new voice in you and be present to other women as they find their voices, too. Interactive, online format Feb. 9-28. Facilitator: Becca Pournoor, M.A.

Expressive Art: Transforming the Emotions of Pain
Explore the emotions tied to your physical pain and what they tell you about what you need in your healing and growth. Saturday, Feb. 18, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Facilitator: Tasha Burg, M.A.

Print registration form for workshops/events - or- Order Online

Walk of Women Conference
PCF Facilitator, Mary'n Hallock will present "Get Organized" at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24. Conference runs February 24-25, 2006 in Apple Valley, MN. Info/Reg.: www.walkofwomen.com.

Expressive Art – Stress Management
PCF Facilitator, Tasha Burg will be facilitating this session on Saturday afternoon, March 11 at EQ Life on Grand Ave., St. Paul. Info/Reg. will be posted closer to the date at: EQ Life events

"Yes, You Can Choose Better Over Really Good"
Teresa will share her personal story of taking the leap from a career she loved to pursue her passion through PCF. Sometimes, we hold ourselves back from what we really want because what we already have is less risky and already good enough. Consider which areas of your own life "you can choose better over really good" and become motivated to make your best choices. Thursday, April 13th at MN Women In Networking. Can't attend? Teresa's is one of many inspirational stories from women in business in the e-book, Journeys To The Playground(TM). Each author has shared what she has learned in hopes it will make your path a little easier. Support and believe in your own process: Order the e-book now, at only $12.99

News/Announcements

• Jean Hanson, Virtual Assistant to PCF was one of 7 recipients of Upsize Minnesota magazine's Lifelines Award. Jean and Teresa have been profiled on page 10 in the February issue of Upsize Minnesota about how Jean's contributions have helped PCF move forward as a small business.
  
  
• Having a tough time keeping your resolutions? Whether you're in need of motivation or support, our life coaches, consultants and professional organizer can help you stay on track.
  
  
• 2006 Promotion: Do you know of an upcoming conference or an organization that could use a refreshing session through Purple Crayon Factory? If so, let us know who to contact and we'll be happy to send them our information. Once they've booked and paid for their group's PCF session, you will receive a relaxing travel candle as a token of our appreciation.

Mini-Reflection Exercise

What part of your work gets your heart beating a little faster (in a good way)?

How often do you get to experience the parts of your work that bring you joy? (If you regularly experience joy, take time to savor and recognize it when it happens. If the things you really love about your work are few and far between, schedule in something that brings a similar feeling.)

What can you do for yourself that will recognize the love you bring to your work? (Flowers for your workspace may be cliche but are lovely nonetheless!)

This Issue's Sponsor

Marketing On The Playground(TM) introduces ...

Women's "Brain"-Storming On The Playground(TM) for Women in Business is hitting the rails this year. Beth Woodward is creating a FUN, Exciting "Train"-Storming for October 13, 2006 in Osceola, WI. We will depart the Osceola Train Station on a vintage Observation car for a beautiful trip through forests of leaves at their peak of fall color and waterfalls. Come with your marketing or business question and leave with some great ideas and ready to take action. Registrants will receive more detailed information as the date approaches.

Mark your calendars for October 13. Seating is limited, so register early.

Additional information at www.marketingontheplayground.com

Subscriber Information

Purple Crayon Factory provides unique, refreshing workshops for participants to reflect and creatively think through their personal and professional goals and dreams. Teresa Thomas-Carroll is the author of the newsletter and can be reached at 612-722-6931, or teresa@purplecrayonfactory.com.

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