Business Women Ignite to Be Their Best

On January 15, 2010, I had the joy and honour of speaking to a group of vibrant and ambitious business women at the first BizWomen Ignite event in Tampa, Florida, an event organized by eWomen Network Managing Director, Karen Krymski. The event was a wonderful success. The day opened with Denise Oatley, a comedic hypnotist followed by 5 speakers in total including myself, Suzanne Caplan, Kim Duke, Marsha Friedman and Peggy McColl. Each speaker had a unique message to offer presented in a unique way. The energy in the room was positive, powerful and inspiring.

I want to congratulate Karen for doing such a great job in organizing the event, but also to all the attendees. As a business woman, attending events such as this one is truly a statement to yourself that you are worth the investment of your time, money and commitment not only for the benefit of your business, but for yourself on a personal level as well. I have learned that being an entrepreneur is an extension of yourself. To be both successful and truly fulfilled, you really need to know who you are, what you want and what you're prepared to do to make your dreams come true. These kinds of events offer so much more than just coming to listen to speakers. Events like this give you the opportunity to meet new people, network and learn from one another. When you take an interest in other people and what they have to offer, they may just reciprocate and want to know about you too. It really is a two way street. I'm a big believer in showing interest in others. I can't help it because I love listening to others, learning about them and how they got to where they are. I guess I'm just overly curious. I believe there is something you can learn from anyone you meet. At events like this, it is also helpful to meet like-minded people as you share so much in common just by virtue of being in business for yourself.

So for those who attended, I trust that you enjoyed the event as much as I did. I didn't just enjoy it from a speaker's perspective. I truly enjoyed the event as a participant as well. I met so many extraordinary women in all kinds of businesses who are eager, ambitious and going after their dreams. I wish every single one of you continued health, success and happiness and look forward to seeing you at other events.