The Struggles and Growth of Getting Started

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Have you ever had that moment when you set out to do something new, full of excitement and determination, only to realize that it’s way more complicated than you expected? Or even worse, you end up doing something you never thought you’d do—like, say, setting up your tax forms with the wrong name. (Guilty as charged!) It might sound like a small mistake, but in those moments, it feels like the universe is throwing a curveball just when you were trying to get it all together.

This morning, I set out with the intention of taking a big step forward and formalizing my “business.” I was ready. Or at least, I thought I was. But then, I hit the legal mumbo jumbo. The forms. The tax ID. The small print. You get the picture. It was overwhelming. I mean, when did paperwork become this much of a labyrinth?

And of course, in my bleary-eyed state, I made an error—one of those small, but crucial, errors. Instead of the correct name, I set up my forms with the wrong one. Cue the dramatic facepalm. But here's the thing: while I could have gotten stuck in self-judgment, I realized something important. It's all part of the process.

This isn't just about setting up a business. It's a metaphor for life. We all start out with the best intentions, right? We want to make things happen, take the right steps, build something solid. But sometimes, things don’t unfold the way we think they will. The steps we thought were correct turn out to need a little tweaking. The path we expected to follow might not even exist—or, worse, we misstep in the process and wonder, "How did I mess that up?"

But here’s the thing: it’s OK. It’s part of learning. It’s part of growing. The outside might not always look perfect, but that doesn’t mean everything’s falling apart. Sometimes, it just means there’s work going on behind the scenes, quietly aligning things to match the vision. You know what’s the most beautiful thing about mistakes and adjustments? They reveal how much we’re willing to grow.

In the world of business, it’s easy to get hung up on appearances. We want everything to look polished from day one, like we have it all figured out. But the truth is, that’s rarely how anything works. The “business” is a reflection of you—of the messy, unpredictable, sometimes confusing, but always evolving inside. It’s easy to look at other people and think they have everything together, but trust me, we all stumble a little in the process. I mean, who hasn’t filed something with the wrong information in a moment of tiredness or distraction?

But here’s the real gold: once you make that mistake, you learn. And once you adjust, you’re one step closer to getting things right. The process of figuring it out, piece by piece, is where the growth happens. That’s how the inside and outside of our lives can finally align—one correction at a time.

So, yeah, I may have messed up my paperwork today. But I’m learning. The business might be "live," but it’s still a work in progress. That’s life, isn’t it? A constant series of starts, adjustments, and growth. Getting started is sometimes the hardest part, but it’s also the most powerful. And, as frustrating as it can be in the moment, those mistakes remind us that we're still moving forward.

Live and learn. And then do it better next time.

You Don't have to Grieve Alone...

While grief might feel incredibly isolating and individual, and personal - you DO NOT have to do it alone.

Why You Don’t Have to Grieve Alone: The Benefits of a Grief Coach

Grief is one of the most profound human experiences, and yet, it often feels like something we have to face alone. The pain of losing a loved one, a pet, or even a significant life change can leave you feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how to move forward. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself.

There is support available for you—support that can help you process your grief in a healthy way and guide you back toward healing. And that support could come from a grief coach.

You Might Need Help, But Feel Afraid to Ask

It’s common to feel hesitant about reaching out for help when you're grieving. After all, grief is deeply personal, and asking for assistance may feel like admitting you’re struggling or not coping as you "should." But the reality is, asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward healing. Many people feel like they should be able to handle their grief on their own, but grief is complex, and it affects everyone differently. There is no “right” way to grieve, and it’s okay to need support.

A grief coach is trained to help you navigate the emotional ups and downs of this difficult time, but many grievers don’t even realize how helpful it can be to have someone by their side. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure about how to cope, a grief coach can help you work through those feelings and create a personalized path forward.

Grief Affects More People Than You Might Realize

You may feel like you're the only one struggling, but the truth is that millions of people experience loss every year. In the United States alone, 2.6 million people die each year, leading to 13 million grieving individuals—each of them facing the emotional weight of that loss. Yet, even though grief is so common, it can still feel like a lonely experience.

Did you know that between 22% and 30% of college students have lost a family member or close friend within the last year? Or that every year, about 73,000 children lose a sibling? These are just a few examples of how grief touches all age groups, and how it affects far more people than we often realize.

Even in a world full of grievers, it can still feel like nobody understands your specific pain. A grief coach can help you make sense of what you’re going through, reminding you that your feelings are normal, valid, and shared by many others. They can help you feel less isolated and more empowered to begin healing.

Grief Can Be Complicated—And That’s Okay

For some people, grief doesn’t just feel sad or difficult—it can feel complicated and prolonged. Research shows that between 15% and 20% of people experience complicated grief, a form of grief that lasts longer than expected and can involve deep emotional pain, confusion, and even physical symptoms like fatigue and trouble sleeping.

If this resonates with you, you might feel like you're stuck in a never-ending cycle of sadness, struggling to move forward even as time goes on. It’s natural to wonder if this is “normal” or if you should be feeling better by now. A grief coach is trained to help people who are dealing with complicated grief, providing the support and tools you need to process those emotions in a healthy way and begin to heal at your own pace.

The Financial Impact of Grief

Grief can also create financial strain—something many people don’t think about until they’re already deep in the process. Research has shown that 73% of people leave behind outstanding debt when they pass away, with an average balance of $61,554, which can create a significant burden for the grieving family.

On top of that, grieving employees can cost businesses more than $75 billion in lost productivity annually. It’s a reminder that grief doesn’t just affect you emotionally; it can extend to your work life, your finances, and your general well-being.

Many people don’t feel comfortable talking about this side of grief, but it’s completely natural to need guidance in managing both the emotional and practical aspects of loss. A grief coach can help you not only process your emotions but also provide advice and support for handling the financial and professional challenges that often accompany grief.

Grief and Its Impact on Different Groups

Grief isn’t one-size-fits-all, and certain groups of people may face additional challenges during their grieving process. For example, older adults—especially those who lose a spouse—are more likely to experience grief-related depression and even thoughts of suicide. On the other hand, younger people like college students may feel overwhelmed by the emotional turmoil and find it difficult to juggle their grief with academic and social pressures.

Children, too, are deeply affected by grief. Studies show that 83% of children who lose a sibling need help processing their emotions. Yet, many children don’t know how to express what they’re feeling, leading them to internalize their grief or exhibit behavioral issues. For many parents, knowing how to help their child through this process can be confusing and challenging.

In all of these cases, a grief coach can offer specialized support to address the unique needs of each individual, from the college student struggling with their emotions to the elderly person coping with the loss of a spouse.

You Deserve Support in Your Grief Journey

If you’re grieving, it’s natural to want help, but it can also be intimidating to reach out. You may feel like you should be “strong” enough to handle it on your own or that your grief isn’t “bad enough” to warrant support. But in reality, grief is something everyone faces, and it can affect every area of your life—emotionally, physically, and financially. You don’t have to navigate it alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

A grief coach is there to walk with you through your journey, providing the tools, support, and guidance you need to process your grief, heal, and move forward in a healthy way. Whether you’re dealing with complicated grief, struggling with the practical side of loss, or simply feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, a grief coach can help you get through it.

You don’t have to carry the weight of your grief in isolation. There’s help available, and you are worthy of the support you need. If you’re ready to take that first step, a Grief Coach can help you find your way.

Unlock Your True Potential: A Holistic Approach to Personal and Spiritual Growth

Have you ever felt like your personal growth is slipping through your fingers? Or like you're chasing purpose but can’t quite grasp it? If that sounds like you, you're not alone. Many of us get caught up in surface-level solutions that don't lead to the lasting change we crave. Whether you're working on your personal development or looking for spiritual fulfillment, the real work happens when you align your mindset, habits, relationships, and inner peace.

So, what’s going wrong? It’s simple: you’re not seeing the whole picture. If your mindset, habits, and relationships aren’t in balance, or if your inner peace and connection to God feel off, your growth will feel stuck, disconnected, and elusive. You're focusing on just one part of the puzzle, leaving the rest incomplete. Let’s break it down.

1. Mindset: The Foundation of All Growth

If your mind is bogged down by negativity or constantly clouded with distractions, growth is impossible. Whether it’s personal growth or spiritual fulfillment, your mindset determines how you approach every challenge and opportunity. Without a clear, positive mental focus, progress will always feel like a struggle.

You need to cultivate a mindset of clarity, optimism, and resilience. This doesn’t mean ignoring challenges—it means having the mental strength to navigate them without losing sight of your goals. Your mindset is the soil in which your potential grows, so make sure it's fertile, focused, and ready for action.

2. Habits: Consistency is Key

Without strong, intentional habits, you’ll find yourself going in circles, never getting the results you want. This applies to both personal and spiritual growth. No routines equals no results. If you’re not consistent with your actions, your dreams will always remain just that—dreams.

Habits are the daily actions that move you toward your bigger goals. Whether it's setting aside time for prayer or working on self-improvement, these small, consistent habits build the momentum you need to see real change. Without them, your growth will stall, no matter how big your vision is.

3. Relationships: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Personal and spiritual growth isn’t something you can (or should) do alone. Relationships are the fuel that keeps you moving forward. Without a support system or accountability, your growth will feel stagnant. Whether it's your family, friends, or a faith-based community, connection with others offers you the strength, encouragement, and accountability you need to stay on track.

When you’re isolated, you lack the feedback and support necessary to push through challenges. On the spiritual side, a solitary faith often leads to a feeling of emptiness. When you’re connected with others who share your values and goals, you’ll experience a level of growth and fulfillment that’s impossible to reach on your own.

4. Inner Peace: Quiet the Noise

If your mind is constantly in turmoil, your ability to grow—spiritually and personally—becomes nearly impossible. Inner peace is the foundation of everything. When you’re overwhelmed with stress or negativity, it’s hard to hear your inner voice or sense God’s presence.

Spiritual growth thrives in stillness. If you're not making time for quiet reflection, prayer, or mindfulness, you’re missing out on the guidance and peace that are crucial for moving forward in any area of life. Take the time to quiet the noise and make space for introspection and prayer.

5. Action: The Missing Link

At the end of the day, goals without action are just wishes. It doesn’t matter how strong your mindset, how good your habits, or how peaceful your inner state is—if you're not taking consistent action, nothing will change. You need to get clear on what steps you need to take and then do them.

This is where your personal growth and your spiritual growth come together. You can pray, reflect, and plan all day long, but without taking steps toward your goal, you’re simply not moving forward. Action is what bridges the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

6. Serving Others: Faith in Action

Personal growth and spiritual growth both come down to one thing: service. When you live a life of purpose, you’re meant to serve others—not just check off tasks for yourself. Faith, love, and service go hand in hand.

If you're only focused on your own growth, you’re missing out on the true power of transformation. Serving others with a heart of love and compassion deepens your own growth and helps you stay connected to the bigger picture of your purpose.

Time to Take Action

Now that you’ve got the full picture, it’s time to ask yourself: Which area are you neglecting? Is it your mindset, habits, relationships, inner peace, or action? Or maybe it's all of them? Wherever you're feeling stuck, I’m here to help you get back on track.

Personal and spiritual growth can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve helped countless people just like you get unstuck and make lasting, transformative change. Together, we can create a personalized plan to align your mindset, habits, relationships, and action, so you can achieve the growth and purpose you’ve been searching for.

Ready to stop feeling stuck and start living in alignment with your goals? Drop a comment below or send me a DM. Let’s make a plan to get you back on track. Growth is better when you’re not alone, you can also share this with a friend who could use a little extra support too!

Your transformation starts now. Don’t wait for tomorrow—let's take action today.

EMBody Wisdom mission

 EMBody Wisdom -

LIVE YOUR PURPOSE

Through EMBody Wisdom, I am committed to fostering holistic well-being by integrating conversations with you through Healing Touch, Spiritual Direction, Life Coaching, or Grief Coaching to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. I believe that everything within us and around us is interconnected, and true healing arises when we live in harmony with ourselves and the world.

Through Healing Touch, I offer a relaxing, nurturing energy therapy that balances physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, helping to relieve stress, manage pain, and support the body’s natural healing ability. As a Spiritual Director, I guide you on a journey of self-discovery, deepening your connection to yourself, your loved ones, and the greater whole.

In Life Coaching, I partner with you to create meaningful change by helping you clarify your goals, uncover your strengths, and make intentional progress towards your purpose. Through Grief Coaching, I provide compassionate support to help you navigate the complexities of loss and find healing and peace.

As an Ordained Pastor and a dedicated guide in these practices, my mission is to help you integrate the healing and holiness of your body, mind, and spirit, empowering you to live with intention, balance, and alignment with your truest self.

Whatever the route that fits you best - It is my goal to help you LIVE YOUR PURPOSE, and it is my honor to walk that road with you for a little while.

How a Coach Can Supercharge Your Personal Growth & Self-Improvement

Personal growth isn’t a one-and-done deal—it’s an ongoing adventure! Whether you're aiming for a career makeover, better relationships, or just leveling up in life, a coach can be your ultimate sidekick. They offer clarity, accountability, and support, helping you break through barriers and unlock your full potential. Here's how:

1. Goal Clarity—Get the 411 on Your Dreams
   A coach helps you cut through the chaos, making your goals crystal clear. They’ll help you break down your dreams into bite-sized, actionable steps that actually make sense for your life.

2. Unbiased Feedback—The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
   Sometimes, we need a reality check. Coaches offer honest feedback, helping you spot your strengths and the pesky habits that might be holding you back. Think of them as your personal mirror!

3. Kicking Limiting Beliefs to the Curb
   We all have that voice in our heads saying, “You can’t do this.” Coaches help you call out those sneaky, self-doubt-inducing thoughts and replace them with empowering beliefs. Bye-bye, “I’m not enough!”

4. Accountability & Motivation—You Got This, But We’ve Got Your Back
   It’s easy to let promises slide when no one’s holding you accountable. Coaches check in, keep you on track, and remind you why you started in the first place. Motivation? They bring that, too!

5. Habit-Forming Mastery
   Self-improvement is built on consistent habits. Coaches help you form the ones that’ll get you to your goals and cheer you on as you stick with them. Plus, they’ll make sure you’re staying on course and tweaking things when needed.

6. Emotional Intelligence—Become the Zen Master of Your Life
   Growth isn’t just about doing—it’s about feeling and thinking better, too. Coaches help you build emotional awareness, manage stress, and communicate like a pro. The result? Less chaos, more calm.

7. Celebrate Wins—Big and Small
   No more ignoring your progress! Coaches help you pause and appreciate the milestones—whether you’ve conquered a big challenge or just made it through a tough week. They’ll celebrate you every step of the way.

8. Safe Space for Real Talk
   A coach is your judgment-free zone. They create an open, trusting space where you can talk through your challenges and get to the heart of what’s holding you back. No fear, no shame—just progress.

9. Resilience Building—Bounce Back Better
   Setbacks happen—but with a coach, they become learning opportunities. They help you stay solution-focused, so you can turn challenges into growth fuel and come back stronger than ever.

10. Life Transformation—Unlock Your Full Potential
    At the end of the day, a coach is your partner in transformation. With their guidance, you evolve into someone who is not just capable, but aligned with your true self—creating a life that feels fulfilling, authentic, and exciting.

In Conclusion:

Personal growth can feel like a solo mission, but it doesn’t have to be. A coach brings the support, guidance, and motivation to help you go farther, faster. Whether you're chasing big dreams or just striving to be your best self, a coach can help you turn your potential into a reality. Ready to level up? Let a coach show you the way!

reach me at e.m.martinson@gmail.com 

EMBody Wisdom - Spiritual Direction

This Week, I’m Focusing on Spiritual Direction: Trusting God’s Guidance

This week, I find myself drawn to the practice of spiritual direction—maybe because, in this season of my life, I feel the need to explore where God is guiding me. Life can sometimes feel uncertain, and the road ahead isn’t always clear. But even in these moments of uncertainty, I’m learning to trust that God is with me.

As I continue on this journey, I’m reminded that even though the path isn’t always easy, it is always filled with grace, compassion, friendship, and an inner strength that grows as I walk through the challenges.

Spiritual Direction as a Practice of Trust

Spiritual direction is a beautiful space where we intentionally explore our connection to God and seek clarity about His guidance in our lives. It’s not about having all the answers, but about learning to listen deeply, trust the journey, and walk with God, even when the way ahead feels uncertain.

For me, spiritual direction is about trusting that God’s voice will be heard, even in moments of silence. It’s about recognizing that, although the road may feel difficult at times, grace is always there to sustain me and help me move forward.

The Role of Grace and Compassion in the Journey

One of the most powerful aspects of spiritual direction is the way it opens up space for grace and compassion to flow. These qualities help us:

• Trust God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with our own expectations.
• Find strength in weakness, knowing that we don’t have to have everything figured out.
• Experience God’s love and support, especially when the journey feels overwhelming.

God’s grace is like a constant companion that gently leads us when we don’t have the answers, showing us the way forward through love, compassion, and the deep friendships that emerge along the path.

The Importance of Community and Friendship

Spiritual direction is also about connection. As I reflect on my own path this week, I’m reminded how important community and friendship are in this journey. Even though spiritual direction is a deeply personal practice, it’s not one that we walk alone. We are surrounded by people who can walk with us, offer encouragement, and help us see things from a different perspective.

The relationships built through spiritual direction bring a sense of companionship—a reminder that we are not alone in our search for meaning, direction, or connection with God.

Building Strength Through the Uncertainty

I know that this road is not always easy. There are moments of doubt, of frustration, of uncertainty. But I’m learning that strength is built through the challenges. When we continue to trust, even in the tough times, we build resilience. We grow deeper in our faith and in our ability to hear God’s voice, even when the way forward seems unclear.

Spiritual direction isn’t about avoiding challenges. It’s about walking through them with faith, knowing that each step we take brings us closer to the guidance and clarity that God has for us.

Are You Ready to Explore Your Own Journey?

If you are feeling uncertain, seeking guidance, or simply desiring to deepen your connection with God, spiritual direction might be just what you need.

It’s an opportunity to:

• Listen deeply for God’s voice.
• Trust the journey, even when it’s not easy.
• Build strength, knowing that grace and compassion are present at every step.

I would love to walk with you in this season of exploration. If you’re ready to begin or just want to learn more about spiritual direction, please reach out. Together, we can create space for God to speak and guide you on your own journey of trust, grace, and transformation.

send me an email at e.m.martinson@gmail.com and we can schedule in introductory session or check out the  EMBody Wisdom  website for a little more information

Remembering Joshua Aaron Olson

Today would have been his 53rd birthday. It's hard to believe that it’s been decades since Josh, my first high school boyfriend, tragically drowned in the St. Croix in August of 1990. The years have passed, but the grief of losing him—so young, so full of promise—still lingers, in quiet moments and heavy memories.

Losing someone young is different. It’s not just about their death; it’s about the future that was never lived—the “what ifs” that never have answers. I find myself wondering who he would have become, how his creativity and light would have shaped the world. He was a gifted soul—humorous, kind, and deeply thoughtful—and it’s hard not to mourn the endless possibilities that were taken from him.

But grief, I’ve learned, is more than just sadness. It’s the loss of potential, of unfinished business, and of the words we never got to say. (even thought I know WAY more about him now) At the time of his passing, I was just beginning to understand love and friendship, and now, years later, I wish I would have been better about telling him how much he meant to me.  And letting him know that friendship was a great deal more important.

Yet even as the pain of his loss still comes in waves, I’m comforted by the legacy he left behind. His spirit lives on in the memories of those who knew him. The way he made others feel—seen, heard, important—is something that can never be erased.

Today, on what would have been his 53rd birthday, I remember him with love. I remember his laughter, the tenor of his voice, his creativity (I have one of his sketches in my office), and the way he brightened the lives of everyone around him. Though he’s no longer here, his light continues to shine in my heart, and in the hearts of all who loved him.

Happy birthday, my friend. You are missed, and you will always be remembered.