By Kristi Hall.

I write this month’s column on the verge of our fourth birthday. Conscious Connections orchestrates a connected and growing circle that expands the souls and enriches the mindsets of its members – comprised of bright and passionate female business owners and leaders. May marks the anniversary of our public debut; but the truth is, we were born 46 years ago on October 30, 1971. It is only recently that I have come to realize this, as the past four years have been the culmination of a life filled with triumph and loss, laughter and tears, and everything in between.

What I know for sure now is that everything comes full circle. This is comforting, healing and empowering as I anticipate what is in store for our community as we grow and mature.

We are building a global model that is already creating a ripple effect around the world. We plan to replicate our impact and success internationally in the years to come. In honor and service to our growing network of readers and members, here are a few things I have learned in life, business and entrepreneurship.

Life + Business Are a Team Sport

As an independent, strong-willed, optimistic woman – and recovering lone ranger – I have discovered that life and business are a team support. What started out as an idea delivered to me in meditation is growing into a phenomenon that is immensely bigger than me. To quote amazing Conscious Connections and Two Percent Club member Tracy Diziere, “Nothing is created alone.”

As I understand and embrace this concept more deeply, I am asking for help and engaging talented leaders, mentors, members, volunteers, sponsors and staff to share their gifts, talents, passions, resources and expertise to help us reach new heights. What started out as “I” has powerfully become “WE.”

Nothing is Wasted

However this column finds you, in an ebb or flow, feeling challenged or feeling like the world is your oyster, or anywhere in between, I want you to absolutely know that no experience is wasted, and in the end everything contributes to your greatness. I appreciate the triumphs in my life and have very recently come to a place of sincere gratitude for the challenges. The things that have brought me to my knees, the most persistent and heart-breaking struggles of my life – depression and divorce – have been my greatest teachers. They have given me a depth of character, understanding, compassion, wisdom and conviction that make me a better human being, leader and steward of Conscious Connections.

Miracles Surround You

You get what you focus on. I am not saying we don’t all have challenges and pain at some points in our lives. I am not saying it is not necessary to feel the pain, fear, grief and loss that is a part of being human. However, please don’t dwell there. Feel your feelings, express them with safe and supportive people, shed as many tears as needed to heal, ask for and accept help, acknowledge fear, and keep moving toward your aspirations. We all have the power to shift our focus and give energy to our dreams, visions, goals and success. I have proven to myself over and over again that a shift in perspective – actually knowing that miracles surround us everyday – welcomes them into our lives in beautiful and unexpected ways.

All that Matters is Now

I have a huge vision for our future. I am also committed to staying grounded and present and grateful for what is now. It would be cool to have a monthly column in O Magazine, be interviewed on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday, hang out with Richard Branson on his private island, and travel the globe cultivating leaders of Conscious Connections chapters. However, we are already making an impact in our community today. The people who matter to me the most today are the people who are reading, joining us at our live events, becoming engaged members, and participating in our life-changing programs. As John Lennon so eloquently penned, life is what happens while you are making plans. Let’s live for today.

We’re having a big birthday bash from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, at Starfire Golf Club in Scottsdale. I am going to be sharing more about our love story and what we have in store for our community in the years to come.

Kristi Hall is an author, speaker and the creator of Conscious Connections, a community for more than 8,000 purpose-based businesswomen.