Making Things Happen was where I found my voice. Through sharing my story and hearing from everyone else, I finally made peace with the little voice in my head, wrangled it and started FOLLOWING it! It's nice to know "the voice" and I are friends now. :) Since MTHNYC2011, I've seen my work in the Washington Post & have booked a total of some really amazing clients!! That's the small part. The big part is the happiness I feel when I'm being my authentic self. I was a scared, somewhat shattered 26 year old when I walked into that room, really. It hasn't even been a full year and I'm still figuring how to make the most of every moment but OH BROTHER it is fun try! Right now, I'm working hard to find my own creative voice within the planning firm I work with. What I love about the MTH community is simple - honesty and strength. If the "outside world" could harness 1/4 of the positive energy our Facebook message boards display, things would be different. The best advice I can give to others is to "DO YOU"! I am so inspired by Natalie & Lara & Emily & Gina and they have done so much good in their own lives and with their thriving careers. I'm not built exactly like them - no one is! But they sure know how to share their love and advice and from that I've learned that being ME is the best way to make things happen. Too vague? It's really not. Every decision I make now is easier because I can hear my own voice clearly. :) The single most important thing I took away from MTH was facing the fear and doing it anyway. Life is a scary maze if you let it be. Lara told us - FACE THAT! and then move through it. Loved that. So powerful. Before MTH, I never thought I'd meet so many individuals who share the same values as me and want to grow each and every day! Power in numbers, people!! Its a GREAT feeling to know that I have so much support at my fingertips/a phone call away/a quick train ride. It's amazing. What's ahead for me: a more balanced life! One that includes a stable relationship and fulfillment in my career. I am STILL GROWING! (and enjoying the process).