This page is about people sharing their experiences with learning and life. They have taken the time to submit their story (you can too) hoping that you are inspired and encouraged to also step up and create new experiences in your life.
That’s what life is all about – sharing, connecting, creating and growing. There is no destination – only experiences!!
Enjoy the many and varied experiences this page has to offer, from triumphs, breakthroughs, insights, lessons and emotions. Soak it up!!
Julianne McCasker's Story: | | Rachel Green's Story: | "I have always loved to create things, especially artwork. I particularly enjoy painting buildings, architectural details, Old Queenslanders in watercolours and pen and ink. However, recently I was asked by friends to paint something for three niches in their home. Their only brief were the colours they wanted included and ....”maybe something abstract”.
I had never painted an abstract in my life, so thought I would “seize the day” and give it a go!"
"Deciding on a triptych that could be hung together or separately, horizontally or vertically (let's really embrace the challenge!). I put on some inspirational music and the creation began. I had such fun creating “The Golden Thread That Weaves the Cloak of Our Lives”. The piece is a layered, multi-media on canvas, adorned with pieces of gold leaf.
Just as a finished the triptych, another friend was entering some work into a local competition and suggested I did also. I didn't have anything for sale but he said it didn't have to be. So with his encouragement I entered one of the panels and to my absolute delight and amazement I was judged the winner in the Adult Art Category (I also was joint-winner in the Peoples' Popular Choice.) I am so pleased I stepped outside my comfort zone. It was such a joy to create, discover and let free a new side to me in the process.
View art | 
| "During a rare moment of creativeness, this poem came out of nowhere.After finishing it, I realised that it was based on my feelings regarding a relationship that had had a profound impact on me. There I was thinking that I was an emotionally strong person, always giving out advice, but not actually listening to it myself. The consequences were that I ended up in a relationship with a mentally abusive person, who so subtly controlled me that I didn't even notice until after the relationship ended."
"I was pushed past my principles and beliefs, I became dependent in every way on my partner, in return for my vulnerability my partner would constantly threaten to leave me. I had many people giving me advice, saying it was easy to leave, just I had given out the advice before. I was now the one in the situation and believe me it was not easy.
I began to dislike myself for what I was "putting up with" and I could so easily have gone beyond to the point of "but this is better than having no-one in my life", for the thought of loneliness was always there. I got to the point of being physically sick, and realised that I couldn't carry on. I made the decision to spend time with my family overseas, and wrote my partner a farewell letter before I left.
It seemed the right time in my life, for my life turned around completely. Now when I read my poem I realise that no one is worth losing your mental and physical well being over and no one can make the decision for you, only you can do that when the time is right." |
| Kimberly Wylie's Story: | | Deception by Rachel Green | I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed today's seminar. I went in there with my notebook and pen ready to soak up all of the information and advice you had to give. I was impressed with your informative seminar and I loved every minute of it. I couldnt believe it when you said the time was up! I wanted more, I was hungry for more. I loved your enthusiasm and the way you delivered yourself. I also found it great that you talked to us about your own personal struggles because I think everyone has a story to tell and knowing that you had your own personal problems yet turned your life around in such a positive way is so inspiring. I purchased one of your books today and will most likely buy more down the track when I have a bit more money. I left the room feeling so empowered and invigorated, feeling that I can conquer the world! It was also great to chat to a few other people who attended and I heard nothing but fantastic reviews from everyone.
I really just want to say thank you so much, the biggest thing that I have learnt from you today (there have been so many things) is that I am not going to allow other people to talk me out of my dreams and goals. I find a lot of people react very negatively to the things that I want to do or try in my life and instead of getting support and encouragement, I receive a list of reasons why I'm not good enough or why it wouldnt work out. It always gets to the point where I really do start to doubt myself and my abilities. I hate to think of how many wonderful opportunities I have missed out on because I listened to other people's opinions. I have to take responsibility myself though because I listen to their advice and end up believing their words to the point where I am so full of self doubt I felt stupid for even thinking I could accomplish my goal. I refuse to allow that to happen anymore though. I am the complete opposite and am always very encouraging and supportive of other people's goals and dreams no matter what, however I find a lot of people in my life tend to be very negative and tell me a thousand reasons why I shouldnt do something or why it wouldnt work because I'm not good enough. That's a very important lesson to learn I think, amongst so many other things you taught me today. Like you said, If I listen to these people I'm doing myself a huge injustice and not being true to myself.
I like how you said that we only have one life, that's so true. We really do need to be the best possible person we can and reach our true potential while we have the chance. Well now I am all fired up with passion and excitement, I'm going to head home and read your book, cant wait!" | 
| You’re beautiful, he said to me
The words just flowed like a melody
He stroked my face, he stroked my hair
I truly believed he loved me without a care
We had our house, the dog, the cat, and the mouse
My life was so perfect, the garden so kept
Under the carpet, my subconscious thoughts I swept
I refused to believe, what my eyes were seeing
I refused to believe, the nature of his being
For his words stopped flowing like a melody
If only I believed what my eyes did see
The day came when my world fell apart
With his hurtful words he stabbed me in the heart
He had found another that was beautiful
He said she shone a light, that made his world bright
He moved out of the house and left the dog, the cat and the mouse
Four seasons did pass when he knocked at my door
He said I was beautiful, his lies flowed even more
Should I open my heart, a new beginning we could start
He could live in this house with the dog, the cat and the mouse
But from under the carpet, my subconscious thoughts came
Telling me that my life would be the same
I said I was sorry, I closed the door
Lies and deception would be no more
For I was beautiful, I said to me
The words just flowed like a melody | Pam Gale's Story: | | Ronit Solan's Story: | "I came to your seminar at the Colonial Club on 12th Feb, and was totally inspired. Since then I have made awesome changes to my life already! I got back on track with my weight loss and exercise program and have so far lost 1kg! I listen to your inspirational quotes every morning and read your book every night. Even my children are picking an inspirational card out each day to read and get them focused. (Ages 9 and 10).
I have had three or four compliments in the past week from complete strangers and work associates. I am feeling SO much better in myself each and every day. I am certainly looking outside the square!
I am looking into changing many things in my life at present, all of which will be of great benefit.
All this is thanks to you. You have certainly inspired me to be a better person.
I have been creating and distributing cards for some years now, however, have decided to take this to a much higher level and my own business. Thankyou so much Deb." | 
| "When I started my coaching with Deborah I had quiet a clear picture as for what I would like to change in my life, I just didn’t know how and where to start. Fear was hiding in every corner, making sure I remained unsatisfied and unhappy.
At that time my husband was still driving me around wherever I needed to go and the job I was doing was nothing than an income. Boring and unfulfilling.
The first thing I’ve learnt from Deborah was: Don’t blame others for anything! It’s my life, and if I want to change it, it is my responsibility!
After the second meeting with Deb I was on fire. And I mean it! I could hardly sleep…. Changes start occurring in different areas of my life: I managed to express my self better and from someone who has always been waiting for things to happen, I start planning and doing. In the few months of Coaching, I did my driving license, bought a car and quit my job. I’m now in the process of building my new career and lifestyle.
And of course, changes don’t bring only joy. They involve pain as well, the pain of letting go and coming out of your comfort zone. But Deb was always there to support and lift my spirit. Every sad email I sent her, was answered in a few hours and gave me the feeling – yeah, she really cares about me!
Now, not only that I’m not afraid of making changes, I love it!" |
| Sam Morley's Story: | | Christine White's Story: | "I was born in Japan and have been in Australia for 16 years. I had a problem expressing myself in English and this frustrated me. I was worried I might say something wrong and upset people so I would just put a smile on my face and try not to speak and just listen. I would say “YES” even if I thought “NO”. I lacked confidence and avoided communication as much as possible.
I was always looking for something that might brighten up my life. I tried different activities to keep myself occupied, like training for half marathon, going to gym, doing glass Painting, Line dancing and so on but I could not find anything that I was serious with until, by chance, I discovered Belly Dancing. I don’t need words when I dance so I felt very comfortable. I can express my feelings and emotions from dance and now enjoy entertaining people with my belly dancing. My love of this dance is not only for the dance itself. It is learning about its culture, rhyme and expression of face and hands. It is like telling a story from the dance. That’s the beauty of the belly dancing and I know I can express myself better whilst dancing. When I started putting on make up and dressing up, I discovered the feminine side of myself. Finding my passion in life has totally changed my attitude and given me the confidence I needed. Now I can speak up for myself and I don’t worry about what people think about me any more. I am more confident and importantly LOVE myself. A big thank you to Deborah who encouraged me to continue and strive for my dream. Deborah is extremely energetic and gives me a great buzz every time I speak to her. It’s like giving me a small electric shock. Another person that has helped me with my dream is my hubby “Paul” Without his support and understanding, I would not have been able to continue with what I am doing. He understands me and my needs and how much I love Belly dancing!!!
Belly dance is my passion in life. I have set my goals and know that I want to be a performer and teach belly dancing later in my dancing career. I will take every step to achieve my goal and I know that I CAN do it! Since I have found my passion for Belly dancing, my feet are firmly on the ground and I am more settled with my life. I am not in the dark looking for something to brighten up my life any more. I can honestly say that I LOVE my life!" | 
| I was an overweight person, depressed, no money, no partner, had many fears and set beliefs and no direction. Through life coaching I learnt to deal with the past and the set beliefs I had, to rid myself of the fears and self -doubt.
Due to this, I lost a lot of weight. Not only that, I was determined to move on with my life and become a stronger person. I have the confidence to know that by loving myself, visualising and setting goals that I could live life with passion; the only way to live.
In my journey of personal development, I have met many new friends, written a book "It's Never Too Late to Date" and onto writing my 2nd book. I'm also enjoying my own company, believing that anything is possible when I put my mind to it and have received a new job and a pay rise where previously I thought was not worthy of. I am independent, trust my decisions and now in a position where I can give back. I stand up for myself and express my ideas without worrying too much what others think but most of all, I am living the life I want - living it to the fullest!
Thanks Deb - where would I be without personal development? Probably watching the soapies for several hours every morning, like I did before your program. Now look at me - I am out there dancing, sharing, writing, contributing and loving life. And guess what? Not bad for someone turning 60 this year hey? | Jenni Kingsbury's Story: | |
| “I come from a history of anorexia, bulimia and depression that has affected my life all through high school and my late teens. Thirteen months ago it had completely taken over my life, affecting my ability to function and energy levels, my self confidence, health, and had subsequently led to me failing university. After hiding my illness and getting away with it by at least appearing normal to the rest of the world, when I finally hit rock bottom I sought help from Deborah and life coaching.
I had tried other forms of help over the years including doctors, psychiatrists, even hypnotherapy; however, life coaching offered something much different. Instead of focusing on the negative and my past, it taught me to harness positive energy and focus on the good. I learnt about my past, and gave myself time to understand and forgive it; and then shifted my focus to the present and future.
Deborah’s enthusiasm and energy was infectious and inspiring from the very first seminar I attended, and through weekly coaching sessions for six months I discovered my self confidence and a zest for life I never had before. My health improved tenfold and I gained energy and a buzz of my very own!
The most valuable thing I have gotten out of life coaching with Deborah is that I have learnt to love myself, my body and all its curves; and learnt to let go of all the rules and restrictions I had enforced on myself and my eating. It didn’t happen overnight, but one day I really started to believe the affirmations I said and still do say each day, loudly and proudly!
The other main thing that I gained was learning that life is about the journey, not the destination. Before life coaching I was looking for a quick fix, whether it was to lose weight or to cure my problems. I also wanted everything to be perfect – to get that degree (as fast as possible!), get that job and be successful. I felt pressure from all aspects of my life, but mostly myself, to achieve things I didn’t really want, and life became a scary, unknown path I didn’t want to be a part of.
But now I am more excited about my journey than ever! The world is my oyster, I am in control and there is so much to be enjoyed. My short and long term goals are diverse and some are totally wild! Now I know I can do them all, when and where I want and I am under no pressure to settle down in one place until I’m ready. My life is about family, friends, adventure and experiences – not my looks or body shape and size.
Having said that, my journey of self-discovery and empowerment is far from over. I still face body image issues and have bad days along the way, which I accept completely and bounce back from much more easily than before. I believe I can always improve on the things I learnt through life coaching, because it is a lifestyle and has to develop with you as you grow and change with experience. What life coaching has given me, however, are the tools to self-coach and an open door to come back to sessions at any time I feel I need a helping hand again.
Thank you, Deborah. You are a shining star!” | Margaret McCarthy's Story: | | Jessica King's Story: | “Since experiencing Deborah’s work, I have felt great exuberance for life, a feeling that I can’t ever remember feeling before – like I wanted to stand on the tallest mountain and yell out to the world how wonderful life is. Now, my relationships have improved, my networks have widened, my happiness has grown, my opportunities have expanded, my university marks have greatly improved and I have finally begun to truly appreciate life.
The interactions with Deborah, for me, are like fuel for the beautiful flame of life: Sometimes on our own, our little candles struggle to burn through the wind – but Deborah’s guidance turns a struggling flame into powerful fire that has the capability to light up the world.” | 
| “I used to be obsessive compulsive, anxious, very low self esteem and a busy mind. I did things like control my weight, excessive exercise, fuss about the clean and tidyness of the house, steal, over-react aggressively to minor situation's, sort happiness in food and shopping, be envious and jealous, try to make other people look bad etc. With the tools that Deb has shared with me I have travelled down a pathway to a remarkable new life. I continue to learn more about myself and create new thoughts about myself and my life.” | Natasha Riedel's Story: | | Sue Jenkinson's Story: | “When I arrived in Cairns I was at possibly the lowest part of my life. I had broken up with the man that I thought I was going to marry, sold the business that I had driven myself into the ground for over 2 years, left the city that I loved and called home and left behind my apartment (with boyfriend still in it) and all my furniture. I was LOST, heartbroken and totally and utterly desperate. I was depressed to the point of suicide and had no direction for almost 3 years. I ran away to Cairns to try and ‘find myself’ and rediscover the strong, vibrant, passionate and creative person that I used to be.
Then I found Deborah. I was so desperate to rediscover myself and end my pain that I was willing to try ANYTHING. Could someone really change my life? Give me back everything that I had lost? The things that Deborah made me question about myself, the things that she made me expose, the tools that she gave me to work with and the patience that she showed in my learning journey has given me back everything and more that I thought I had lost forever.
I now have joy, passion, energy, vision, determination, clear goals and an unshakeable belief in my own abilities. I have the raise from my boss that I deserve, the respect of my peers and superiors, a new business that I am incredibly excited about, a wonderful man in my life and an amazing and inspirational new group of friends. The sky is the limit and I am on my way to wealth, huge success and the relationship of a lifetime. THANKS DEB!” | 
| At your workshop I bought the Weight Obsession package because I knew I was ready to take that next step... the first step of the rest of my life... especially after hearing your story. Some of your family experiences are similar to mine and I was brought up to go the extra mile... no matter how well you did there was always more that could be achieved, so I have spent my life raising the bar before even reaching the previous level I expected to reach. I have done so much to be proud of, have so many talents which I try to make the very most of because I appreciate having them... but have crammed my life so full that I couldn't breathe... couldn't say no to any requests and had to find more and more energy to be as dynamic as I could be for others. The only thing I ever failed at was losing weight. I have been the classic in your workbooks... the vicious cycle to a tee. I cried when I read it and went and ate myself silly before I could come back and read more. This is exactly what I have needed... to be confronted with what was really happening... and I cried because I couldn't believe that I could be so intelligent and not see what was happening... and here it all was exactly as it all happened... the merry-go-round, the yo-yo cycle. I started to write down NEGATIVE THINKING as the heading on a card and under that wrote the feelings that triggered off emotional eating and have been adding to it every day.... so far... Anger, Injustice, Disappointment, Stress, Fear, Deadlines, Upsets around me, Lots of noise, Loss of Control, Anxiety, Sabotage, Unfair comments by others... and I'm sure there will be more. These are the feelings that have triggered eating episodes (followed by strict rules and guilt of course!) since your workshop! I couldn't believe it! I now know (thanks to you) that it is not what happens but how I think about it and react that is the problem. I have written the other parts of the cycle on cards and have drawn keys on the back so that whenever I experience any of those parts of the cycle I can "STOP...BREATHE...OBSERVE..." and then pick up the card and flip it over to see what "key" action I can take that is the opposite of what I usually do that will break the cycle. I have always been greatly affected by what negative things others say (no matter whether well meant or otherwise) and now instead of feeling negative, I understand that they have their opinion and I graciously say thank you for their advice, and that I will keep it in mind, and focus on what I know is right for me. How can I ever thank you for writing your program and allowing me to see myself in the cycle. I have been on that cycle for a long time and have been searching for answers with diets and only finding more rules! I am reviewing your workbook to date and making cards and notes and working on my positive thoughts and patterns especially chewing food, observing, putting utensils down, not eating on the run / in the car etc. I have been a gobbler with my mind everywhere but on the food I'm eating for a habitually long time without realising. (hour to prepare, hour to clean up and 30 seconds to gobble it down... you know the story!) Some things I am finding easy to change and some much harder so want to establish these habits before moving on....making them a natural part of my life. Being artistic and a visual learner, I am responding to your program like a duck to water. I am reading about me... it is like I have written it myself about me, so it is very personal and easy to take on board.... your voice is in my head talking to me but it is like it is my voice in my head... so again a huge thank you to you for providing these tools. I have all your cards and flip chart on my desk where I see what I need to hear at the present time... again thank you. You may be my life saver and the catalyst to my enjoyment of a quality life in my older years.
Thank you thank you thank you...
As you would say... Yahooooo!!!
And yes, I am proud of the journey so far and looking forward to continuing with passion for all things wonderful.
Cheers! ...Sue
| Sharon Bandiera'sTestimonial: | “Deborah helped me discover blocks and ineffective behaviours which were making my life and the achievement of my goals a struggle. I worked through limiting beliefs, incongruence between my conscious and unconscious self, learned to be kinder to myself and create a clearer vision of my life purpose. Now I wholeheartedly believe I am capable of fulfilling my life purpose. What a gift! Deborah challenged me to be open to endless possibilities. Deborah had such a profound influence in my life!”
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