Beyond the Hustle

Tag: leadership

  • Ghosting: The Invisible Sabotage of Trust & Respect

    I was creating content for my marketing business when I found myself diving into a topic that’s been on my mind for a while: ghosting. Not the dating kind, but the kind that happens in business and life, when someone simply disappears instead of responding, following up, or having the hard conversation.

    It struck me that this is something we don’t talk about enough, especially as entrepreneurs, leaders, and professionals navigating fast-paced, emotionally charged spaces. So I thought I’d dive in here and open the door for thought and conversation.

    The Real Problem with Ghosting

    We live in a culture of instant gratification and constant notifications, but ghosting has become alarmingly normalized. However, what may feel like an “easy out” in the moment actually causes long-term harm.

    When you ghost someone, whether it’s a potential client, business partner, vendor, or even a friend, you’re not just avoiding discomfort. You’re sending a message (whether you realize it or not) that their time, effort, or relationship wasn’t worth a response.

    And trust me, that message sticks.

    Why It Matters in Business

    Business is personal. Relationships are the currency of any business, and the way we show up, or don’t, directly impacts our reputation and personal brand.

    Whether you’re saying “yes,” “no,” or “not right now,” clarity is a form of respect. People remember how you communicate when things aren’t easy more than they remember the smooth moments.

    Here’s what happens when we DON’T ghost:

    • We build trust, even when we say no.
    • We protect our reputation and brand integrity.
    • We make space for the right opportunities to flow in.
    • We model healthy boundaries without disappearing.

    Why It Matters in Life

    Ghosting doesn’t just show up in business. It can show up in friendships, family, and even the way we relate to ourselves. When we get overwhelmed or uncomfortable, it’s tempting to pull back instead of leaning in.

    But here’s the truth: Discomfort is not a reason to disappear. It’s a sign to pause, reflect, and communicate with care.

    The Bigger Picture: Boundaries ≠ Ghosting

    Sometimes we confuse boundaries with avoidance. Setting a boundary might mean declining a project or stepping back from a relationship, but it still involves communication. Ghosting skips that step entirely and leaves people confused, hurt, or doubting their worth.

    You don’t need to over-explain or over-justify. A simple response can be both kind and firm.

    Try these:

    • “Thanks for thinking of me, but I’m not available for this opportunity.”
    • “I need to step away from this relationship, and I wish you well.”
    • “Right now isn’t the right time for me, but I appreciate your message.”

    Let’s Normalize Showing Up

    I believe communication is a core part of conscious living and working. We’re not here to ghost our way through the hard parts, but rather we’re here to build something better. That means responding. Being honest. Choosing clarity over comfort.

    You don’t have to be perfect. Just present.

    Have you ever been ghosted in business, or accidentally ghosted someone yourself? What did you learn from it?

    Drop a comment or share this post with someone who values showing up. 💬

    Denise xo

    Leave a comment

  • Who’s Training Who? My Dogs Might Be the Real Life Gurus

    I’ve hired and worked with many consultants over the course of my career, taken many leadership training classes, subscribed to podcasts, and read and highlighted pages in some of my favorite personal development books. But it turns out, my best life coaches have been at my side (and under my desk) this whole time. They have four legs, fur, and absolutely no understanding of personal space. NONE.

    Meet Stanley and Stella — my rescue pups, my furry soulmates, and, as I’ve recently realized, my life coaches. They may not have diplomas and degrees, but they’ve got great insight. Their wisdom is simple, consistent, and always delivered with a tail wag…especially when treats are involved.

    Masters of Presence
    Stanley doesn’t care about what happened yesterday. Stella isn’t worried about next Tuesday’s meeting. They are fully present. They remind me to stop overthinking, to notice the breeze on a walk, and to enjoy the moment I’m in. When we’re outside, they’re not scrolling, comparing, or planning. They’re living. That’s a lesson I didn’t know I needed.

    Loyalty and Love, Unfiltered
    There is something grounding about coming home to a pair of dogs who act like you’ve been gone for years, even if it’s only been 20 minutes. I mean, seriously, they lose their minds! Their loyalty is unwavering. They remind me to nurture relationships that feel that steady and supportive. If your people don’t light up when you walk in the room, find the ones who do.

    Boundaries Are Everything (except when it comes to personal space..then forget it)
    When Stanley is done for the day, he’s done. He doesn’t ask for permission to take a nap in a sunny corner of the room. He doesn’t feel guilty about rest. He plays hard and rests harder. Stella, on the other hand, has a clear internal clock. She knows when it’s time to pause and when it’s time to move. Lesson learned: rest is productive. Recharge like your well-being depends on it — because it does.

    No Overthinking Allowed (this is a big one, guys!)
    Dogs don’t spiral. They don’t get imposter syndrome or anxiety over what someone meant by “see you soon,” or “k.” They show up exactly as they are. Stella walks into a room like she owns it (and let’s be real, she does). That kind of confidence is contagious. She teaches me to stop second-guessing and start trusting my gut.

    Here’s another life lesson…sometimes when someone says “k” or “see you soon” that’s all it means. Nothing else…just acknowledgement. Let’s try to keep that in check. We don’t have to overanalyze every. single. thing. Dogs sure don’t!

    Consistency Is Queen (and King)
    Walks, meals, treats, and bedtime routines — dogs thrive on structure. And when I stick to a rhythm with them, I thrive too. They’ve taught me that consistency doesn’t mean boring; it means steady growth, predictable peace, and sustainable habits. Showing up daily (even for a walk around the block) is more powerful than waiting for the “perfect” moment.

    So, What If We Took a Page from Their Playbook?

    Stanley and Stella don’t need apps, calendars, or vision boards. They just need love, movement, rest, and purpose. And maybe some peanut butter. They remind me that being present, showing love, setting boundaries, trusting myself, minding my business, and staying consistent are more than just life lessons — they’re a lifestyle.

    My final lesson today? Technically, I’m the one holding the leash—but when it comes to life lessons, they’re leading the pack. 😉

    Make Moves, Live Boldly!

    Denise xo

    **Got a furry life coach of your own? Drop their name and best lesson below!

  • Think Different, Act Bold: How to Become a Disruptor in Your Field (and in Life)!

    In a world that rewards comfort and routine, disruptors are the ones rewriting the rules. They challenge outdated systems, innovate where others settle, and redefine success on their own terms. They don’t wait for change—they create it.

    So, are you playing it safe, or are you ready to disrupt (a question I often ask myself)?

    What It Means to Be a Disruptor

    Being a disruptor doesn’t mean causing chaos for the sake of it. It means thinking differently, taking bold action, and refusing to accept limitations. Disruptors don’t ask for permission to succeed. They carve their own paths and, in doing so, inspire others to follow.

    The Disruptor’s Playbook: 5 Ways to Shake Up the Status Quo

    Want to break free (like me) from the norm and make an impact? Here’s how:

    1. Challenge the Standard Thinking

    Just because something has always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best way, and honestly, nothing annoys me more than to hear “but, we’ve always done it that way.” ALWAYS question the norm. Look at your industry, career, or personal life and ask, What could be better? What’s missing? Disruptors don’t accept “good enough”—they push for better.

    2. Take Risks Others Won’t

    Most people hesitate when faced with uncertainty. Disruptors see risk as opportunity. Whether it’s launching a new venture, pivoting careers, or speaking up about an issue, they lean into discomfort and bet on themselves.

    3. Show Up Unapologetically

    The world tries to fit people into neat little boxes. Disruptors break them. They build personal brands, businesses, and movements by being authentically themselves—even when it goes against the grain.

    4. Surround Yourself with Bold Thinkers

    Your circle influences your mindset. Want to think bigger? Connect with people who challenge and inspire you. Join communities of innovators, follow thought leaders, and engage in conversations that push your limits. A great way to start? Listen to disruptors in action.

    🎙️ Podcasts for Disruptors:

    5. Take Action—Now

    Most people overthink, wait for the “right time,” and stay stuck in planning mode. STOP WAITING! Disruptors execute. They don’t wait for approval; they make moves and adjust along the way. The key to disruption isn’t just thinking differently—it’s acting on it.

    The Game Changers: Famous Disruptors Who Redefined Success

    Need proof that disruption leads to greatness? Look at these innovators who shattered expectations:

    🔥 Elon Musk – Transformed the auto and space industries with Tesla and SpaceX, proving electric cars and private space travel weren’t just ideas—they were the future.

    🔥 Oprah Winfrey – Broke barriers in media, redefining what was possible for women and people of color in television and beyond.

    🔥 Steve Jobs – Changed how we interact with technology by making design, functionality, and innovation inseparable.

    🔥 Sara Blakely – Turned $5,000 and a simple idea into Spanx, revolutionizing an industry that doubted her.

    🔥 Brené Brown – Disrupted traditional leadership thinking by proving vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

    Want to Think Like a Disruptor? Start Reading

    📚 Books That Will Change How You See Success

    • Be the One – Justin Prince → A powerful book on mindset, leadership, and stepping into your full potential.
    • The 10X Rule – Grant Cardone → Why thinking bigger and taking massive action is the only way to dominate.
    • Dare to Lead – Brené Brown → Leadership through courage, authenticity, and vulnerability.
    • The Hard Thing About Hard Things – Ben Horowitz → The unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship and leadership in disruptive times.
    • Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill → A timeless classic on success, wealth, and breaking limitations.

    🎧 You’re going to want to carve out 15-minutes, and grab your airpods to listen to this wisdom. 🎧

    One of the most iconic disruptors of our time, Steve Jobs, shared his perspective on innovation and resilience in his 2005 Stanford Commencement Address—a speech that has since gained over 45 million views on YouTube. In this heartfelt talk, Jobs recounts pivotal moments in his life, from dropping out of college to launching Apple, getting fired, and coming back stronger than ever. His advice—“Stay hungry, stay foolish”—is a call to action for anyone looking to challenge the status quo and make a real impact. Watch the speech below and ask yourself: How can you think differently?

    Disrupt or Be Disrupted: It’s Your Move

    The world doesn’t wait for people to step up—you have to choose to make an impact.

    💡 What’s one way you can disrupt the norm in your life or business today? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it.

    Make Moves, Live Boldly,

    Let’s connect!

    Leave a comment

  • Surviving a Narcissist: The Toxicity, The Chaos, and The Lessons

    Have you ever been the target of a narcissist? If so, you know the mental gymnastics, the manipulation, and the relentless toxicity that come with it. If you haven’t—consider yourself lucky.

    It wasn’t until later in my adult life and career that a narcissist quietly infiltrated my world. My narcissist disguised themselves as good, pure, loving, and honorable—a true chameleon. At first, it was all rainbows and butterflies—until, suddenly, I had no idea what hit me.

    My fight-or-flight instinct kicked in, but instead of running, I looked around at others, who seemed fine, and thought, “It must be me.” (Ugh…a home run for the narcissist.)

    The ironic part? The moment I started confiding in friends and family, they immediately said, “You’re dealing with a narcissist.” It wasn’t one big, obvious event—it was a slow, calculated unraveling. A series of tiny, almost imperceptible manipulations that built the foundation for something far more damaging.

    Fortunately for me, our relationship ended abruptly. At first, I was in shock. But with time—and a lot of self-reflection—I finally felt something I hadn’t in a long time: I could breathe again. Really breathe.

    I was recently talking to a friend about the crushing grip narcissists have on their victims and the slow surrender we unknowingly give them. It’s a psychological game—one designed to strip away your confidence and leave you questioning your reality. And escaping? That’s another battle entirely for so many.

    Breaking free from a narcissist feels like emerging from a cult-like trance—your identity shaken to its core. Thank goodness for the self-help section on Amazon, podcasts, and therapy, right?!

    The Narcissist’s Playbook: A Masterclass in Manipulation

    At first, they charm you (This is known as the honeymoon phase.). They praise your work, admire your talents, and build you up—only to slowly chip away at your confidence. The gaslighting is subtle at first:

    🌀 “I never said that.” (They did.)
    🌀 “I’m sorry you feel that way.” (Zero accountability.)
    🌀 “I’ve done so much for you, and it’s not appreciated.” (Lies.)

    Before you know it, you’re walking on eggshells, second-guessing yourself, and questioning truths you once knew. That’s the toxicity of a narcissist—they LITERALLY rewrite reality to serve their ego.

    The Fallout: Breaking Free from the Cycle

    Realizing you’re in a narcissist’s grip feels like waking up from a nightmare you didn’t know you were trapped in. You start seeing the patterns, the control, the meanness, the manipulation—but getting out? That’s where the real fight begins, especially for those married to one (for the sake of my husband, I want to clarify that I’m not referring to him here).

    Narcissists don’t let go easily. They crave control. They twist narratives, spread lies, and play the victim to maintain their power. And when you finally break free? They’ll do everything in their power to paint you as the villain.

    The Lesson: Reclaiming Your Power

    Here’s the good news—you learn. You recognize the red flags sooner. You set boundaries quicker and stronger. And most importantly, you take back your power!

    If you’ve been through this, you’re not alone. The scars narcissists leave behind are real, but they’re also proof that you survived.

    Want to Outsmart a Narcissist? Listen to This.

    Mel Robbins has hosted remarkable guests who break down the psychology of narcissists—and, more importantly, how to break free from their grip. If you haven’t listened to “Outsmart a Narcissist: A Proven 4-Step Plan to Take Your Power Back,“ it’s a must, so grab your 🎧 headphones and listen with intention and purpose.

    I listened to it on a hike—the place I go to find clarity. I’d love to know what you think after you listen to the full episode.

    For anyone who needs some tips and strategies, I’m including a great resource I found from The Counseling Center Group. Here is “How to Handle a Narcissist: 8 Effective Strategies For Self-Care.“

    Have you ever dealt with a narcissist? Drop a comment or share your experience—because the more we talk about it, the more we reclaim our power, and the more we help others.

    Make moves, live boldly!

    2 responses to “Surviving a Narcissist: The Toxicity, The Chaos, and The Lessons”

    1. Avatar
      Anonymous

      You nailed it! Thanks for sharing and reminding us to assess all relationships. Life’s too short to spend time with the wrong people.

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      1. Denise Irving Avatar
        Denise Irving

        Thank you so much for reading my post, and I’m glad it resonated with you. For people who haven’t experienced this behavior it can take some time to realize what is happening in the relationship.

        Assessing all relationship is spot on!

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