Blog 74: Unlocking Potential: Tonia's Mission to Inspire and Guide Women

Empowering women through coaching and personal growth.

Introduction

 Meet Tonia! Tonia, a passionate life coach, helps women uncover their authentic selves and rediscover joy. Her journey began in the corporate world but led her to a career that guided women through their personal transformations. Tonia’s supportive coaching empowers women to achieve confidence, balance, and lifelong joy.

Tonia, tell me about yourself, your personality, and your passion. How do you serve yourself? Also, how do you serve the community?

I’m Tonia, a women’s life coach passionate about helping women rediscover their joy and live authentically. Both personal and professional experiences shaped my journey into coaching. After a significant career break, I returned to the workforce as a sales manager. I discovered my love for coaching—not just in achieving professional success but in supporting others as they navigate personal growth. That’s when I realised my true calling: guiding women through their transformative journeys.

 At 48, I’m embarking on a new career, proving it’s never too late to pursue your passions. In November 2023, I officially launched my coaching practice after completing the ICF-accredited Level 1 Coaching Education Program through Neurocoaching Australia. I’m nurturing yet driven, and I believe deeply in continuous growth—both for myself and the women I work with. Having faced my struggles with imbalance, self-doubt, and uncertainty, I’m committed to creating a space where women can rebuild confidence, rediscover strengths, and create lives filled with joy and balance.

 When it comes to serving myself, I prioritise personal development and selfcare. I stay grounded and energised by engaging in activities that bring me joy—like painting by numbers or spending time with my family—and nurturing my mindset. This selfcare is essential, allowing me to show up fully for my family and clients.

In serving the community, I aim to empower women to realise their full potential. Through my coaching practice, I provide a safe, nurturing space for women to explore their strengths, challenge limiting beliefs, and take actionable steps toward the lives they truly desire. I walk alongside those seeking more balance, confidence, and joy, helping them discover that they have the power to grow, evolve, and thrive no matter where they are in life.

 Ultimately, my passion is showing women that it’s never too late to become their best version. I’m honoured to support them on this journey of growth and transformation.

7 Questions for Tonia

1.      What mindset shifts are essential for women to unlock their full potential?

Unlocking your full potential often begins with a mindset shift. Everyone is different, and as a coach, I need to explore this with them to ensure that coaching is the right space for them. In the coaching space, we explore your self-talk, beliefs, and patterns that may hold you back. One key shift is recognising the power of your inner dialogue and developing self-awareness. By noticing how you speak to yourself, you can reframe limiting beliefs and cultivate a more growth-oriented outlook.

Here are a few practical ways to start:

• Journaling: Writing down your thoughts helps reveal patterns in your internal narrative.
• Meditation & Mindfulness: Mindfulness enables you to observe your thoughts without judgment, making room for more constructive ones.
• Self-Reflection: Regularly check in on your values and goals. Are they aligned with how you're living? This alignment is crucial as it helps you live with more purpose and intention, guiding your actions towards your desired growth.
• Mindful Language: Reframe negative thoughts. Small shifts in language can lead to big shifts in mindset.
• Gratitude Practice: Focus on the positives by asking yourself, "What went well today?" This daily practice grounds you in gratitude.

These small shifts can unlock your potential and lead to significant changes. They not only help you create a life that feels more aligned, fulfilling, and joyful, but also give you a sense of accomplishment and motivation. Remember, every small step counts on your journey of personal growth.

2.      What role does personal development play in helping women evolve and grow beyond their daily routines?

Personal development is a powerful tool for breaking free from daily routines and stepping into a life of growth, purpose, and fulfilment. It serves as a bridge between where you are now and where you want to be, offering a pathway that helps you rediscover your strengths, passions, and potential.

Here’s how personal development helps you evolve:

• Unlock Your Full Potential: Personal development invites you to invest in yourself through learning, goal setting, and self-reflection. This journey uncovers hidden strengths and dormant potential.
• Embrace Your Unique Path: Coaching provides a nurturing space to explore and challenge limiting habits, leading to a life that’s truly your own.
• Reclaim Your Voice: Personal growth empowers you to break free from societal expectations and define your identity on your terms.
• Inspire Others: Your growth creates a ripple effect, inspiring those around you to begin their journeys.

 Each step you take on your personal development journey brings you closer to the life you’re truly capable of living—one filled with meaning and joy.

3.      What daily habits or routines do you recommend helping women build a positive and growth-oriented mindset?

Building a positive mindset starts with understanding the difference between a fixed and a growth mindset.

• Fixed Mindset: Think of it as wearing invisible blinders, limiting your vision. Believing your abilities are set in stone limits your vision. You might think, “I’ve always been this way; it’s too late to change.”
• Growth Mindset: Embracing the belief that you can learn, and grow is a powerful tool. It opens a world of possibilities. With effort and self-compassion, you can overcome obstacles and thrive, empowering you to take charge of your personal growth journey. Shifting to a growth mindset can be life-changing; the good news is you can change it. Here are some daily habits to help nurture this shift:

1.      Start Your Day with a Positive Affirmation: A simple statement like, “Today is a chance to grow,” can set a positive tone for the day.

2.      Embrace Challenges: When faced with difficulties, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this?”

3.      Celebrate Wins (Big & Small): Acknowledging progress, no matter how small, is a crucial part of nurturing a growth mindset. This practice fosters resilience and growth, making you feel encouraged and validated in your journey.

4.      Reframe Negative Self-Talk: Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” say, “I’m learning how to do this.”

5.      Fuel Your Mind Daily: Dedicate time each day to learn something new. A growth mindset thrives on continuous learning.

These habits help cultivate resilience and fuel growth, ensuring your mindset stays positive and open to new possibilities.

4.      What advice would you give to a mum who wants to evolve and grow but feels guilty about taking time for herself?

Feeling guilty about taking time for yourself as a mum is natural—I've been there myself. But selfcare isn't selfish; it's essential. When you care for yourself, you can show up fully for your family and model healthy behaviours for those around you.

Here's how to get started:

• Getting started with self-care doesn't have to be complicated. Even a short 15-minute break can make a significant difference. These simple activities can be a great starting point, whether reading, taking a leisurely walk, or indulging in a quiet bath.
• One effective way to ensure you prioritise selfcare is to treat it like any other important appointment. Just like you would with a doctor's visit or a work meeting, mark your self-care time on the calendar and commit to it.
• Find What Works for You: Whether exercise, a hobby, or time with a friend, find something replenishing you.
• Communicate: Let your family know that taking this time helps you feel more present and balanced and ask for their support.

By prioritising selfcare, you'll create a more balanced and joyful life for you and your family.

5.      How do you define "unlocking potential" for a busy mum stuck in her current role?

For a busy mum, unlocking potential is about rediscovering your power to shape your story, even amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities. It’s not about adding more to your plate—it’s about recognising the qualities you use daily, like resilience and multitasking, and applying them to your personal goals.

In a coaching space, we explore what brings you joy and how to reconnect with those parts of yourself. Whether revisiting an old hobby or carving out time for self-reflection, unlocking potential is about making small, intentional shifts that spark rediscovery. These shifts reignite your sense of self and help you take steps toward personal goals. It’s a process that benefits you and sets an empowering example for your children.

6.      How can mums set realistic goals for personal growth that align with their responsibilities as parents?

Setting realistic goals for personal growth while balancing motherhood requires alignment and flexibility. It’s about creating space for yourself while honouring your other roles.

Here’s a helpful approach to setting goals:

1. Identify Your Focus: What area of your life do you want to grow in—health, career, relationships, or self-development?
2. Clarify the Outcome: What does success look like for you? Why is this goal important?
3. Visualise Your Success: Picture yourself having already reached the goal. How does it feel? What does life look like? This clarity strengthens your emotional connection to the goal.
4. Break It Down: Map out a plan with manageable steps. For example, if you want to walk 5 km regularly, start walking for 15 minutes daily. Gradual progress without feeling the pressure of an all-or-nothing approach.
5. Set a Realistic Timeline: Break your goal into smaller milestones with their deadlines. This gradual progress builds momentum without overwhelming you.
6. Use Visual Tools: A vision board can help keep your goals front and centre as a tangible reminder of what you’re working towards.

Growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of your responsibilities. It’s about finding harmony between your aspirations and your role as a mum, allowing you to grow at your own pace.

7.      Something I Wish People Knew About Me

Many people might not know that I never considered myself particularly "arty" or crafty growing up. But over the past couple of years, I've developed a real love for paint by numbers. There's something incredibly relaxing and rewarding about the process, and it's become a form of selfcare for me. My husband has even hung a few of my pieces in our home—though I'll admit, you probably shouldn't look too closely!

For my birthday, I received a paint-by-numbers canvas of me and my 4 boys, a lovely gift from my hubby!

 Another thing I'd like people to know is that, just like everyone else, I struggle with being present and maintaining a positive mindset. I have good days and bad days, and staying grounded is something I have to work on consistently. My personal development journey hasn't always been easy, but it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It's taught me that growth is ongoing, and that transformation doesn't happen overnight—but it's worth it.

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Top Quotes

Tonia likes these quotes:

" If you're one of those people who has that little voice in the back of your mind saying. 'Maybe I could do (fill in the blank),' don't tell it to be quiet. Give it a little room to grow, and try to find an environment to grow in" 

Reese Witherspoon

Mukti likes these quotes:

“If we did all the things we are capable of doing we would literally astonish ourselves.” Thomas Edison

“Sooner or later, those who win are those who think the can.” Paul Tournier

“Continuous effort- not strength or intelligence- is the key to unlocking our potential.” Winston Churchill

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” Curiano

Questions and Reflections

1. How can I cultivate a growth mindset and overcome limiting beliefs?

Reflection: A growth mindset is key to personal development. We can unlock our full potential by embracing challenges and learning from setbacks.

 2: What practical steps can I take to prioritise self-care in my busy life?

 Reflection: Selfcare isn't selfish. It's essential for our overall wellbeing. Small acts of self-care, such as taking a short walk or practicing mindfulness, can make a big difference.

 3: How can I balance my personal and professional life?

Reflection: Finding balance is a continuous journey. We can achieve a healthier work-life balance by setting boundaries, prioritising tasks, and practising selfcare.

Conclusion

Embracing personal growth, Tonia guides women toward more authentic and joyful lives. She helps clients build confidence, balance, and lasting transformation through her coaching. Tonia's journey shows there is always time to unlock your potential and live fully.

Connect with me:

Join the Gang: Join our community and share your experiences, insights, and any burning questions you have. Let’s build a supportive space where growth and transformation aren’t just goals—they’re what we do!

Here’s to a more vibrant, energised, and thriving you!

Thanks for being here, and let’s kickstart your growth and toast to your successes as you unlock your full potential!

Do you have questions? Don’t be shy—drop me a line! I love chatting with our awesome community.

Feeling stuck in a rut and yearning for a life transformation?

Join us on November 10th for a deep dive into spiritual growth and personal transformation. Our latest blog 75 features Jess Patra, a visionary coach and energy healer.

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With much Love

Mukti Santos 

 Don’t complain about things you’re not willing to change.” Curiano

Journal Prompts