Trending Mom

Not Just Another Fairy Tale

Shivani Cotter — Tue, 21 May 2013 16:34:32 +0000

For about 20 years, I had worked in the Mortgage Industry. Starting as a receptionist (while in college), I worked my way through various jobs in the same field. Working for both brokers, lenders and many platforms, I held processing, underwriting, closing, sales and management positions. The last position I held was as a Director of Sales Specialists for a large-scale corporation. I left that job March 2013. It was scary. My existence in the work force until then revolved around the Mortgage world. That is what I was known for. I was an expert in the field.

Rewind… October 11, 2011, I made a promise to myself (in memory of the death of my dog), to make a change and do something I loved. I set some goals for myself:
1. Develop my website.
2. Start writing about what I love.
3. Do something to help the world.
4. Learn something new every day.
5. Leave a lovely legacy for my daughters.

November 11, 2011: Trending Mom Was Born.
Without any formal training on website development, no understanding of Social Media, ROI, or anything of the like, I was on my way…

The beginning… a few website crashes, some big mistakes, the wrong platform for my site, a terrible appearance and more… Regardless, I was determined to do it on my own. I was determined to prove to myself that I could build a successful website, gain loyal readership and learn all about social media, various metrics, search engine optimization and more. The more I worked on my site, the more hungry I became.

I am proud to say that:

I am 100% self-taught. Everything (and I mean EVERYTHING) on my website was created by ME.
I was nominated for my first award only 4 months after I began my website (and won).
I have been nominated for various awards since.
I work with some of the MOST AMAZING organizations.
I AM benefiting the world through non-profit work, charities and working with the incredible Global Team Of 200.
I do learn something new every day and LOVE to share it with my readers.
I AM LEAVING A LOVELY LEGACY FOR MY DAUGHTERS.

Millionnaire or not, I am living proof that if you take a leap of faith and follow a passion, you CAN TRULY LIVE AN AUTHENTIC LIFE… 11-11-2011 Marks a very special day in my life. Make your day today!

After all, fairy tales can come true…

Trending Mom

Wish You Were A Stylist?

Shivani Cotter — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:18:55 +0000

Skeptical of launching your own work from home business? It can be a tough decision… some that work, and some that don’t. Then there is Stella & Dot. I love to feature Stella & Dot’s business opportunity because it isn’t just a way for you to make money. It’s a way for you to make money and do what you love. If you have a penchant for fashion, style, and playing dress-up, this is an amazing opportunity for you!

Now is the perfect time to launch your own business and join Stella & Dot’s growing team of Stylists! Stella & Dot creates flexible, work from home business opportunities for entrepreneurial women. Create the success you deserve. To find out more information visit www.stelladot.com/stylist. Get started today!

*this post was sponsored by Stella & Dot

Trending Mom

A Roller Coaster Called Life

Shivani Cotter — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:10:29 +0000

Roller Coaster – The most dramatic ride in a theme park.

The emotional roller coaster can be tough to manage (especially if you are afraid of heights). We all go through them though. When you are stuck at the top, looking down… just thinking of the drop can cause anxiety, even though the fall only lasts a few seconds and then… it’s over.

Now, consider life. We let ourselves get so worked up over things that really don’t last long. Instead of facing them head on, knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel, we think of them constantly, thus creating angst, frustration, heartache, and more struggles… but for what? Something that is NOT forever… unless of course, you want it to be. Then, even after all is said and done, we don’t let it go… we rehash the misery over and over.

Roller coaster rides last minutes. The fall only last seconds. Once off the roller coaster, you are off to another ride. Life is all about roller coaster rides. Life has its ups and downs. How we handle them is our choice. Nobody forces us to get back on the rollercoaster, so why is it so hard to let it go? Don’t be a martyr for punishment. Don’t continue to relive the past. Focus on what is right in front of you and embrace it (even with its challenges).

Understandably, fear, worry and anxiety can prevent us from trying to think positive when you have been broken down. I let myself live focused on the past for a long time. It did nothing for me. I allowed all the negatives in my past to shape me, and not all the beauty in my “NOW”. I realized that in order for me to stop dwelling on the negatives, I needed a constant reminder of the positives. It’s so easy to get hung up on the rollercoaster… that is because it is typically the most dramatic ride in any theme park. I began a simple journal. One that travels with me everywhere I go. A journal that I write positive quotes and affirmations in.
My journal boasts quotes like:
“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Life the life you have imagined” – Henry David Thoreau
“The only thing holding me back is me! Release and let go, be brave, believe in yourself!” – Shivani Cotter (Trending Mom)
“Be fearful of mediocrity.” – Jonathan Ellery

I read these quotes and many more positive affirmations daily. When I begin to feel down, I open my book and remind myself of my goals, aspirations and why I need to keep trucking! Life is all about the roller coaster. Rather than be fearful of the fall, remember how quick it is and how many more wonderful rides are ahead.

This is my journal. As you can see, I had a little fun with Washi Tape and a bit of bling.

You can get my journal here!

Trending Mom