Mary Ellen Merrigan of Women in Transition Interviews Tama Kieves:

1. As you look back, what is the most memorable part of your transition?

Probably the time when I ended up moving to my dream location in the mountains to write my book. At the time, I was still very much in transition and concerned about paying my bills. But I ached to live in a beautiful environment where I could dive into writing. It seemed crazy to even think about, since I knew I had to live in the city to support myself. And living in the mountains was very expensive. But wild things happen when you're committed to your wildest dreams. One coincidence led to another and another, and I ended up renting a beautiful place right near a national park for a ridiculously low rent. It was so low that I was able to keep my place in Denver too. I remember gazing at the towering pines and delicate bluebells in my new backyard and realizing, okay, I guess the Universe really does want me to write and live my dreams. I felt so loved by life.

2. During the "treading water time" of transition, is there one exercise that can spark inspiration or encourage someone to stay with the uncomfortable feeling?

In my coaching practice and workshops, I always teach people to write to their Loving Inner Voice. Imagine, the wisest, most loving, believing part of yourself and write to it. Write your fears and feelings and let that presence "answer" you, even if you feel like you're making it up. Dialoguing with this inner wisdom has kept me believing in my dreams and trusting my path no matter what. No matter how afraid I get, how doubtful, how wretched, there is always a part of me that is sane, faithful and insightful. No matter what's going on in your life, there is a way to see it in which it makes sense. When I'm very upset, I don't trust the positive outlook initially, but at least I know it's there and eventually I always come around.

3. Tama, you talk with women across the country. Can you comment for us please on the growing recognition of the importance of meaning to work?
I am seeing this more and more. Downsizing has really helped people realize that there is no "secure job" anymore. Many creative and intelligent individuals were ignoring their souls in the name of security and that illusion cost them. Since there is no longer any external security, real security can only come from a sense of meaning. You have more passion and commitment and creativity, not to mention, brilliance when you love what you do.

Also, I've seen many women who climbed to the top and felt robbed when they got there. They got all the material goods they thought they needed to be happy, but secretly they still didn't feel worthwhile or full inside. Only a sense of meaning gives you peace. And what really concerns me, is I see more and more women and men suffering from health problems. They tell me their job makes them sick. And it does, it really does. It breaks my heart. It's worth dying for something you believe in. It's not worth dying for something that pays the cable bill.

4. What do you advise when the reality of insurance premiums impacts the dream of doing work you love?

The reality of bills never needs to impact the dream of doing work you love. Bills can't stop you. They can disrupt or detour you for a period, but nothing stops you, but you. I know it's tempting to believe that it's too hard or too impractical. I went through that a lot. I did not have a husband to support me, a trust fund, or a bundle of savings. When I got a parking ticket, I cried my eyes out and thought I would surely always be poor and I should just give up and get a real job. I felt like every bill became a slimy, whispering temptation to quit. But something inside me knew I would die if I stopped trusting and believing in my dreams. I had this love of writing inside me. And I had this secret belief that somehow I would make it. I just couldn't believe that Life would give me my talents and gifts and this hungry desire and not mean for me to make it.

5. Our busy world seems to encourage a "stuffing" of intuition; how do you suggest calling it out, trusting, and fanning that spark to full flame?

Consistently get away from the noise and tasks of everyday life. Go on a retreat or journal in your backyard or listen to a meditation tape every morning. Ignore the radio and t.v. and the voices of the world. Something inside you knows how to create a perfect path through the chaos. Listen to the loving, calming voice within you and only that voice. Also, surround yourself with supportive people. You need someone who hears your fledgling idea and encourages it to grow. Sometimes one insensitive question or comment can crush a tender dream. If you don't have a great and believing friend, then start a support group or join one, hire a coach, seek out a spiritual teacher, whatever it takes. I also think it helps to read about other inspiring people and how they followed their dreams. Study those who have trusted their intuition or creativity and made something happen in the world.

6. What is your dream of how we women in transition connect?

Personally, I'd like to see "This Time I Dance!" circles and groups grow all over the country. I envision a space where people are supportive, authentic, and encouraging each other to listen to their own wisdom and to "trust the journey." And where women and men can start helping each other, providing resources, ideas, and more. I want to end the isolation of transition that so many creative and visionary people feel. I think you need to be in a group that has a specific focus, otherwise it can degenerate into someone else's agenda, fear, or just scattered socializing. I've also created Awakening Artistry, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals in finding and living their most meaningful self-expression. We offer different resources like a free message board for folks to communicate on, inspiring stories, a free inspirational online newsletter, courses, coaching, meditation tapes, and much more.

7. If you could speak directly to each woman in transition, what would you say?

First I would ask each one to consider the question that This Time I Dance! asks: "If you're this successful doing work you don't love, what could you do with work you do love?" Trust your dream. Trust your instincts. Trust your love. Creating the life and work you love can take some time, but it's worth every ounce of energy and devotion. We need your gifts in this world. We need your talents and your light. Never give up on your love. You can't imagine the resources that will come to you and the events that will unfold. You can't imagine how this will take off and how you can do it, but it can and will be done. You can't plan an inspired life. But you can follow your love. You are meant to do this, and nothing else will give you the same kind of peace of soul, freedom, and sparkle in your life.


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