Day 109 blog

Today started off slow and steady with a good breakfast in bed. Room service for the win, honestly. There’s just something about coffee and breakfast showing up at your door that makes the morning feel a little more put together.

After that, it was time to get ready for my speaking event. I won’t lie, I had to calm my nerves a bit. No matter how many times I do this, there’s always that moment beforehand where your heart is racing. I said a little prayer, made a quick call to someone close to me for a pep talk, and that was exactly what I needed. Sometimes just hearing a familiar, grounding voice makes all the difference.

Once I felt centered, I grabbed my dress and headed to get my hair and makeup done. There’s something about that transformation process that flips the switch mentally. Once I changed into my dress, it was go time.

Walking onto that stage and sharing my story never feels casual. I talked about what I went through, the challenges, the setbacks, the moments that could have broken me, and how all of it shaped me into the business owner I am today. This year I added in a segment about our community giving. Not for recognition, but because it’s important to me that people understand success isn’t just about numbers. Helping my community is part of my why. I truly believe that when you give back and move with the right heart, blessings follow.

It was powerful. Emotional in some moments. But so worth it.

Now I’m sitting at sushi dinner with a few of the people who were at the event, just talking, laughing, decompressing. These are the moments I love almost as much as the stage itself.

And we’re not done yet. Tomorrow I have another event, and Wednesday I have one more plus a dinner party meet and greet afterward. It’s a busy few days, but I’m grateful for every opportunity.

Tired, proud, and very full of sushi.

Signed, Paulina.