Tanya Cross, Author at Tanya Cross Consulting

Have you stalled?

Tanya Cross on October 2, 2024

You’ve demonstrated your expertise and delivered exceptional results.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

You’ve taken the leap to building your own business, but now you find yourself feeling stuck and overwhelmed.

Growth has stalled, or perhaps your competition is gaining ground.

Even though your clients value your work, your business isn’t expanding as you’d hoped. You’ve tried everything to create the impact you crave—yet nothing seems to work.

Was starting your business all those years ago worth it?

Without a doubt.

The fact that you’ve come this far speaks volumes.

Having worked with countless business owners and top leaders, I’ve built, sold, and rebuilt companies, and I recognise potential when I see it.

My inspiration is helping service business owners amplify their influence in their industry.

You possess the knowledge, and I’m here to help you fully own it.

With a focused approach and a drive for bold action, I listen intently to craft a strategy that delivers the results you’re after.

This isn’t about creating a business that fits someone else’s mould; it’s about what works for you. This is personal.

To unlock sales, refine your intellectual property, establish your authority, and secure your market position, you must advocate for what truly serves you.

But first, you need clarity on what that looks like—and that’s where I come in.

Once we have that clarity, I’ll guide you with energy and enthusiasm through all the critical decisions and next steps that drive results.

With expertise in making the complex manageable, I’ll support – and sometimes give you tough love for you in achieving long-term scalability and financial success so you can create the future you envision on your terms—without the risk of burnout.

I believe in this reality because I see more potential in my clients than they often see in themselves.

If someone tells me something can’t be done, I’ll find a way.

That’s who I’ve been, going against the grain, wrapped in a love to serve. Inspired by my Dad’s influence on me to have my own business and Mum’s deep love of doing meaningful work, I bring all that and more to the table.

My dedication and deep commitment to you achieving your goals light me up.

Your story. Your journey. Your transformation. Is why I do what I do.

Ready to break through and step into the next chapter of your business and life?

Let’s make it happen together.

Tanya “Growth Coach” Cross

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Whirlwind of the past 3.5 years

Tanya Cross on September 24, 2024

I’ve been reflecting on the whirlwind of the past 3.5 years and what a journey it’s been.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

During this time, I started a second business, bought two investment properties, navigated the end of a long-term relationship, and became a single mum.

I also sold a portion of one company, entered into a business partnership, and handled a major direction change in that business—all while continuing to grow my consulting business.

Oh, and did I mention I was raising a toddler who’s now in the first year of school?

Looking back, these weren’t just personal changes, and they happened during one of the most globally stressful periods in recent memory.

The financial challenges we face as individuals can be difficult enough, but when you compound them with global crises or a recession, the stress can be overwhelming.

This kind of stress isn’t simply additive—it’s amplified.

Personal stressors blend with larger global issues, and suddenly, the weight feels much heavier.

Financial difficulties, for example, activate the brain’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response, flooding us with cortisol and adrenaline.

This is a natural reaction to immediate threats, but when paired with global uncertainties like a pandemic or economic downturn, the stress response can go into overdrive. Oh, you feel that in your body.

We saw this clearly in 2020 when people across the world became more anxious, isolated, and unsure of their futures. The global nature of those challenges created an unprecedented sense of uncertainty and helplessness, making existing financial stress feel insurmountable.

It’s not just a matter of facing double the stress. Research in psychology and behavioural economics shows that financial stress impairs our decision-making and problem-solving abilities, creating a vicious cycle.

A study published in Psychological Science found that financial insecurity can cause a cognitive load that leads to poor financial choices, which only increases the stress.

Those who were already under financial strain experienced heightened anxiety and depression when a global crisis hit, especially if they felt powerless over their personal or global circumstances.

Beyond the psychological toll, amplified stress can take a serious hit on a person’s identity and sense of self-worth, especially if you wrap your self-worth up in money.

Financial struggles often challenge how we see ourselves, questioning our competence and worth. When this stress is compounded by global events, it can lead to feelings of helplessness, loss of motivation, and declining mental health.

Erikson’s stages of development tell us that maintaining a sense of control and purpose is vital, particularly for younger people still forming their identities.

Global crises, when combined with personal stress, can disrupt this process, leading to confusion, frustration, and an overwhelming loss of direction.

This amplification of stress—where personal financial struggles and global challenges combine—is not just a psychological theory.

It’s a very real experience many of us have felt. And it will likely happen again in some other way in our lifetime.

Acknowledging the root causes of stress, or the problem under the problem, can help to have a deeper understanding of stress and how to manage it.

Because anything that goes through stress has the potential to grow.

If we can navigate the complexities of life, business, and self with resilience, we unlock the possibility for deeper growth and success.

This is especially true for service business owners, who often face unique stresses and pressures.

By empowering yourself to manage stress, you can no longer play with your stress but unlock your full potential.

Tanya “Growth Coach” Cross

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

What’s your two things?

Tanya Cross on September 16, 2024

Last weekend, in a training session with over 400 participants, we were split into small groups and tasked with creating a business in just eight minutes—name, concept, and strategy for commercialisation.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

I suggested an idea, and the group loved it. When it was time for the room to vote (and we couldn’t vote for our own), they cheered and whistled for it.

It wasn’t just a validation of the idea but a reminder of why I love coaching: the ability to spark insights that lead to real change.

Business isn’t just about tactics or numbers; it isn’t about chasing success for its own sake.

It’s about creating value that resonates with the heart and needs of those you serve.

When you see the potential in others and help them shift their perspectives, it becomes clear that they can raise their prices with confidence, package their unique expertise, and take their clients on a journey toward meaningful outcomes.

The moment in the room sharing the idea reminded me of my roots—how I learned the values that shape the way I work today.

Growing up, I’d come home from school and see my dad at the dining table, meticulously balancing his books and writing checks.

At the time, I didn’t fully understand the depth of what he was teaching me, but he was silently showing me the discipline, focus, and perseverance required to build a meaningful business.

On the other hand, my mum instilled in me the power of service and spirituality. I still remember her waking up at 4 a.m. every morning to pray, her dedication unwavering.

Now in her mid-80s, she remains devoted, continuing to inspire me with the values she’s lived by her entire life.

These two pillars—business and service—are central to who I am. For me, business is more than just a profession; it’s my spiritual path. It’s where I’m energized, where I’m inspired, and where I create my biggest impact on the world.

Circling back to that room of 400 people.

When we focus on serving others and meeting their true needs, the market naturally opens up.

The ability to help people is always there—you just have to find the right need to connect with them.

By aligning with what people are genuinely hungry for, we create solutions that light them up and make a lasting difference.

This is the real power of business: it’s not just about who, we are, what we do, but how we connect with those we serve.

So, I ask you—what are your two things (or three) that drive you? What are the needs you can meet? What solutions can you offer that will create meaningful change for those around you?

When you find those answers, you unlock not just the potential of your business but the path to truly lasting impact.

With fire and grace,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Embrace This Edge And You’ll Go Far

Tanya Cross on September 10, 2024

With 15 years of working with leaders and business owners, the one common statement I hear from all of them is this…

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

I have known since I was young that I am different.

The feeling of being different, of not quite fitting in with those around them.

Whether it was a feeling inside, a knowing they had a different or unique perspective on the world, there was an early experience of feeling out of place.

This was the seed of their future impact and influence.

These future leaders often found themselves standing apart from their peers.

I used to wear a jumper in the middle of summer in Melbourne. I stopped drinking at 18 when everyone else started drinking.

I wanted to go against the crowd.

One client who’s a mover and shaker in their industry was the kid who asked too many questions in class, challenging the teacher with ideas that went beyond what was being taught.

For many, and maybe this is for you too, there is this sense of difference that wasn’t always comfortable.

Being different can be isolating, especially during childhood and teen years when the pressure to conform is strong.

We want to fit in, to be like everyone else, to avoid standing out in a way that might attract unwanted attention or even judgment.

But for those who felt this feeling of being different would later go on to achieve something great, this feeling of not quite fitting in was a sign of something deeper—a unique perspective or a different way of thinking that, if nurtured, would become a powerful superpower.

Let’s face it, feeling different can be both a burden and a blessing.

On one hand, it can lead to feelings of loneliness, self-doubt, and a desire to hide one’s true self in order to fit in.

On the other hand, this very difference is often the source of one’s greatest strengths.

The discomfort of not fitting in forces individuals to develop a strong sense of identity.

And during your teen years, that is what you are doing, forming your identity, your individuality.

Embrace your uniqueness rather than trying to suppress it because you are to tap into your potential.

For instance, let’s go into the minds of someone else (and see if some of their thinking will stick – or at the very least, we can model and scaffold the greatest for ourselves).

Consider the story of Steve Jobs. As a child, Jobs was known for being a bit of a misfit. He was interested about technology and design, but he wasn’t always the easiest person to get along with. He had a different way of thinking and conflicting with others.

But instead of trying to fit in, Jobs leaned into his difference. He embraced his unconventional ideas and used them to create products that were not just functional but beautiful and user-friendly. His ability to think differently—his refusal to accept the status quo—was a key factor in his success as the co-founder of Apple.

Similarly, Oprah Winfrey’s early life was marked by challenges and a sense of being different. Growing up in poverty, experiencing abuse, and struggling with self-esteem issues, Winfrey could have easily been overwhelmed by her circumstances. But instead of letting these experiences define her in a negative way, she used them as fuel for her future success. She has the ability to connect with people on a deep level and that was what she shared with the world.

Being different is not a weakness to be hidden but a strength to be cultivated.

The very traits that set these leaders apart from others in their youth became the source of their greatness in adulthood.

The leaders who have made the greatest impact on the world are those who were not afraid to be different.

They were the ones who, as children, felt like they didn’t quite fit in but who later realised that this very difference is your secret edge.

Let your differences help you reach your potential.

With love,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Do you have this one thing in you?

Tanya Cross on September 4, 2024

What I notice with many of the coaches I work with, and even business owners in my one-on-one sessions, is a deep, intrinsic love to serve. But it goes beyond mere affection; it’s a profound obligation to serve.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

Not an obligation that binds, restricts, or ties you down. Instead, it’s an obligation that frees you, expands your vision, and connects you to something much larger than yourself.

There comes a moment in life when you realise that your journey is not just about your own growth, achievements, or success. It’s about a purpose that transcends personal ambition. It’s about what you can contribute to others.

This is not just about ‘what’s in it for me,’ but rather, ‘what’s in me that I can offer the world?’

You have a lot to offer the world—don’t die with the music still inside you.

This deep obligation to serve isn’t just a fleeting thought; it’s a calling that resonates deep within your soul.

You feel pulled towards serving because you understand that your life, with all its experiences, pains, struggles, and insights, holds the potential to make a significant impact on the world around you.

When you’ve walked through the fire and emerged on the other side, you gain a unique perspective—one that is invaluable and worth sharing with the world. The lessons you’ve learned were not just for you; they were for you to pass on, to help others grow, thrive, and fulfill their potential. This is what it means to empower others.

As a service business owner, you are in a unique position. The obligation to serve is not just about fulfilling a need or solving a problem; it’s about empowering others to maximize their profit, fulfill their purpose, and unlock their full potential.

When you serve from this place of deep obligation, you’re not just running a business—you’re leading a movement. You’re creating ripples of change that extend far beyond your immediate circle.

I feel this way as a Demartini Method Facilitator—that I was born to share this work, born to make a difference with it, because life’s experiences have led me here. To the work. And to you.

Do you feel that way about serving?

When you choose to serve, you acknowledge that your life is part of a greater whole, and that your actions have the power to create change far beyond what you might imagine.

By lifting others, you also lift yourself.

The true reward of service lies not in external accolades or recognition, but in the quiet, deep sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing you’ve made a difference.

Embrace this deep obligation to serve. Make it a core part of not only your business’s mission but your life’s mission.

As you move forward on your path, remember this: the obligation to serve is not a burden; it’s a privilege.

It’s the key to unlocking the full potential of your life and business, and in doing so, you empower others to do the same.

With love,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

I didn’t see it

Tanya Cross on August 28, 2024

Picture this: I’m driving with my daughter in the back seat, and Justin is sitting next to her. We’re on our way to the airport, and everything seems to be going smoothly—until I make a wrong turn.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

Suddenly, instead of heading straight to our destination, we’re winding through the city streets, adding time to our journey.

As we’re stopped at a red light, I glance out the window and see a school sign that reads, “Our Lady of Mount Camel.”

Puzzled, I turned to Justin and said, “Mount Camel? That’s a new one. I’ve never heard of it in Australia.”

Justin, equally perplexed, agrees. “Yeah, that’s odd,” he replies, and Bonnie joins in. We all start chuckling, imagining a school dedicated to camels.

As the light turns green, and we start moving again, Justin does a double-take and says, “Wait, it’s not Camel—it’s Carmel.”

By this time, the school is behind us, and I can’t go back to double-check.

But I was certain that the sign said “Camel.” I read it. Justin read it. How could we both have been mistaken?

So what did we do? We turned to Google for answers. Within seconds, Justin found that the school was indeed called “Our Lady of Mount Carmel,” not Camel.

Somehow, I’d misread it, and my conviction was so strong that I influenced Justin to see it the same way.

Now, here’s why this matters to your business. This small, seemingly insignificant moment is a powerful illustration of how our perceptions can be deeply influenced by bias—and how those biases can ripple out to impact others.

Maybe I had animals or camels on my mind?! Who knows?

As business owners, especially in service industries, we often find ourselves in situations where we need to make quick decisions.

Our brains, wired for efficiency, often fill in gaps based on what we think we know.

But here’s the catch: these snap judgments, while sometimes useful, can be dangerously misleading if they’re not based on solid evidence.

Think about it: How often do you make decisions based on assumptions rather than facts?

Maybe you assume you know what your clients want because it’s what they’ve asked for in the past.

Or you’re convinced that a certain marketing strategy will work because it did once before.

Perhaps you’re so certain about a particular business direction that you don’t even consider alternative options. But what if it wasn’t this way now?

In business, just like in that car with Justin, misperceptions can lead you off your path.

You might overlook critical information, dismiss a valuable opportunity, or steer your entire business in a direction that ultimately doesn’t serve your goals.

The lesson here is not just to avoid snap judgments but to actively question your perceptions.

When you’re sure you’ve got something figured out—whether it’s a client’s needs, a business strategy, or a market trend—take a moment to step back and verify it.

Are you seeing things as they really are, or are you letting assumptions cloud your judgment?

This is where the power of data, feedback, and external perspectives comes into play.

Don’t just rely on what you think you know. Or if someone else is certain.

Gather evidence, seek out diverse opinions, and be open to the possibility that you might need to adjust your course.

Just like with the school sign, you might discover that what you initially thought was “Camel” is actually “Carmel”—a subtle but crucial difference that can change the direction of your business.

In the end, this isn’t just about avoiding mistakes; it’s about maximising your potential.

By fostering a habit of questioning your assumptions and seeking clarity, you set yourself up to make more informed, strategic decisions that propel your business forward.

So, the next time you find yourself convinced you’ve got something figured out, whether it’s a new business idea, a client’s request, or even your long-term strategy, pause and take a closer look.

You might just uncover Mount Carmel, where you were expecting Mount Camel—a more accurate, profitable path that leads you exactly where you want to go.

With love,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Inner World Voice

Tanya Cross on August 21, 2024

When the outer voice dominates, the inner voice diminishes.

Tanya x

When I write, I write from my knowing now. I have a high value on learning and I am constantly growing. I share with you my level of understanding now, but over time my perspectives may change, grow and evolve. Thank you for going on a journey of constant discovery with me.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

A voice in the mind

At a soul level, we have oneness, there is no difference between anything inside of the universes, it is all the same. Our soul emanates a physical human body, the mind separates through judgment and sees duality, pairs of opposites. Inside our minds, we have intuition and instinct. Our intuition is a positive feedback mechanism to get us back into equilibrium. Our instinct is a negative feedback mechanism to get us back into equilibrium. In a state of unconditional love, you are in a state of equanimity where you have no judgment of self or another person, and you have access to the soul.

The mind can either exaggerate or minimise yourself, either puffing yourself up or deflating yourself down. If you look down on someone, you are puffing yourself up and exaggerating yourself relative to them, thinking you have more differences than similarities. If you look up to someone, you are deflating yourself down and minimising yourself relative to them, thinking you have more similarities than differences.

When you infatuate, you are aware of the upside, but blind to the downside. You are conscious of the upside and unconscious of the downside at the moment. When you are resentful, you are aware of the downside but blind to the upside. So, you are conscious of the downside and unconscious of the upside at the moment.

Your mind will create a negative feedback mechanism to bring the unconscious conscious until both sides of the equalising are balanced.

If you are highly infatuated with someone, a guy, for example, your intuition will try to get you to wake up to the downside, saying, “This is too good to be true.” “What is wrong with this guy?” “There has to be a downside to him.” Right? The intuition is telling you to be cautious.

Your mind attempts to shift your perceptions of love and bring them back into equanimity. It is trying to reveal the unconscious to you; these thoughts are the unconscious content trying to surface.

Inequity of the mind results from judgment, and you are in a state of imbalance. If your mind is in balance, you have full consciousness. There is no intuition. If it is imbalanced, you have conscious and unconscious. The unconscious you are blind to, you can’t see, and your intuition will help you.

Intuition

Intuition is known as an inner voice, a hunch, a sense of what is happening. It is of the psyche, it is the inner knowing and the voice of the soul. It is one part of a spectrum of intelligent information that can astound you. It doesn’t base its information on the here and now. With intuition, there is no here and now, it is not restricted by time and space.

For me, intuition feels like a pull, a knowing, and certainty in my heart. Intuition is a subjective experience, and everyone experiences it differently. This experience of intuition is neither positive nor negative; it is a communication method.

With the psyche, there are no boundaries between what is coming to you and being influenced around you.

Everyone in their life has had a moment of intuition, a moment of deep certainty and knowing, a feeling that this is the right path or decision to make, maybe even that there is something wrong.

Gut Instinct Versus Intuition

We have the soul, the higher mind and the lower mind. The lower mind is the gut instinct which is trying to avoid or move away from pain and seek pleasure. This is where the mammalian brain takes over, alternatively known as the limbic brain. The limbic brain screens sensory data for emotional relevance and records memories of behaviours that produce positive and negative experiences. By processing emotions and gut feelings, it helps you to repeat behaviours that made you happy and avoid those that caused pain.

Your intuition is here to guide and gift you with information you don’t logically have in your awareness. Your gut is here to protect and prolong life. Both work together as forms of an inner knowing, a hunch, a sense about what is going on within you and around you.

Some people are confusing the gut instinct for survival with intuition. You feel a gut instinct below your diaphragm.

The Heat And Intuition

Your heart is the gateway to true wisdom and your spiritual message. Your heart is the centre of the universe. Any memory and imagination, any resentment or infatuation you experience is keeping you in your mind, not in your heart. Your inspiration and intuition will be your barometer to where you’re relative to your heart.

Inner Voice

Too often, we are influenced by the many voices on the outside about how to live life. We seek advice from the many and get confused as to which direction to take. The greater the number of people we seek, the greater the degree to which we create more pain in the decision.

We can either have many voices on the outside or one voice on the inside that guides us. The more we listen to the many voices on the outside, the more the inner voice becomes shut down and quiet. These voices don’t know your true path and calling; they don’t know the wisest decision for you based on everything you have been through. Only your inner knowing will reveal what is wisest for you.

When you quiet the mind, when you experience certainty and presence of the mind, the heart opens, you experience gratitude and love, your inner voice becomes loud and crystal clear, and you receive an inspired message. If your heart is filled with gratitude, it is almost impossible to stop your inner voice from speaking clearly and profoundly.

Hugs and heart,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Follow Your Knowing

Tanya Cross on August 7, 2024

This week I have been on the hunt to find a theme song for my life.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

One that really encompasses where I am and where I am going. It’s to add to my Divine Design PowerPoint slideshow of what I’d love to create in my business and life.

(It’s kind of like a moving image that plays for my future every morning before I start work for the day.)

I came across this Sam Smith song.

“how I see myself with you

I don’t say a word

……

And look in my eye

You are perfection

My only direction

It’s fire on fire

It’s fire on fire.

……

But then we love and feel the truth.”

I had rolling goosebumps throughout the song. No, not all of it moves me, but some lines like “You are perfection” do it for me every time—waves of goosies rolling through my body.

Now, I get that for you, it might not be the case with this song, and these words.

For you, it’s more likely to be a different song or scene of a movie as we have different things that will move us.

These connected emotional states involve goosebumps.

So why do you get goosebumps?

OK, let’s get our geek on.

The technical term is cutis anserine (‘cutis’ means skin, and ‘anser’ means goose) or piloerection (probably not going to use that word again).

Now, let’s get clear, there are three types of goosebumps. This is how I’ve named them, and they’re not scientific-technical names by any means.

The ‘cold’ goosebumps, the ones you get when you’re physiologically cold.
The ‘chilli’ goosebumps—the ones that cause a cold shiver down your spine—usually occur with a perception of social disgust and fear.
The ‘soul’ gives goosebumps with an experience of awe. This usually occurs with an integration, alignment, or truth being told.

The common experience of goosebumps is the ‘chilli’ ones you get when you feel cold and your hairs stand on end. This reaction is great for animals because all of their hair stands on end, they look bigger and scarier to their predator. For us humans, it helps to create a buffer between your skin and the cool air keeping you a little warmer.

Evolutionarily speaking, that came in handing pre-clothing days to keep our bodies warmer and is still serving that purpose now. (except for those people who lasered their arm hair – they’re now realising the downside. #deepsigh).

Let’s go a little deeper.

There are involuntary muscles just under the skin that activate the sympathetic nervous system, also known as the fight, flight, or fright response when experiencing a highly emotional state. When the muscle is contracted, it makes your hair stand upright and gives you goosebumps.

The goosebumps I’m referring to are the ones you get when watching a movie, hearing a speech, or reading a passage from a book. It moves you in a deep way and gives you goosebumps.

This feeling of being moved or touched can be accompanied by tears, goosebumps, and sensations of warmth in the centre of the chest or heart plexus.

This experience is described in Sanskrit as kama muta, a feeling of oneness, of love or union.

One particular framework for emotional experiences labelled as moving is the concept of kama muta. Kama muta theory involves sudden increases in closeness and community that evoke a distinctive positive social-relational emotion.

This emotion is often accompanied by tears, goosebumps, and feelings of warmth in the chest, and people often use terms such as “moving,” “touching,” or “heartwarming.”

The goosebumps you’ll experience in Maximum Growth classes, living life and doing “the work” are the soul goosebumps.

There are more nuances to why these goosies happen and scientific research is still debating about why we experience these types of goosebumps.

What they do know about goosebumps after studying brain images is that they activate certain brain structures, such as the amygdala (the centre for emotions, emotional behaviour, and motivation) and prefrontal cortex (cognitive control functions).

I can tell you from my experience that I’ve been writing down my goosebumps moments since 2009. Not every one of them, but a large sample to see what is common to what my soul is saying.

There are some messages in there that are profound statements, like things to do with universal truths, setting a big, crazy goal and achieving it, and receiving a payment from a client with the transaction name being “lifesaver.”

When we align our soul’s messages with a business and lead, magic happens. You’ll feel purposeful and that you’re walking the path that you are destined to walk. Every day, you feel like you get paid to be you and do the things you love most.

So, open a new Word document, and start generating your list of goosies.

Love to hear what is revealed to you. Do you require changing direction in business? Or are you on the perfect path for your soul’s calling?

Here’s to hearing the whispering in your ear from your soul,

Tanya “following my knowing” x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

3 Lessons From My Hike

Tanya Cross on August 1, 2024

Last Wednesday night, at 12 am, I crawled up the last three flights of stairs, dragging myself into my apartment.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

My Lululemon pants are collecting a white, powdery substance as my knees scrape against the concrete floor.

How did it come to this point, you wonder?

I didn’t have to wonder—I had been pondering, finding meaning in the mystery for days.

It was my first time off. No business, clients, family, or obligations. Just all the things that would fill my own cup in a long time.

I had planned a trip, booked flights, arranged accommodation, and even convinced a friend to come with me. The Great Ocean Walk, stretching 104 kilometres from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles in Victoria, was our destination.

Imagine Antarctic winter winds thrashing the coastline and rain that doesn’t fall softly from the sky but needles down at a 45-degree angle. It’s not for the faint-hearted.

I embarked on this journey with the intention of doing my own Power Walkshop—to uncover my power and purpose, just for me.

But as I started walking, it became evident that, despite my efforts to stop and savour the moments, this wouldn’t follow the Power Walkshop lessons.

The walk had its own lessons instead.

Day one was filled with rainbows. One rainbow that arched from one side of the land to another, a double rainbow, a waterfall rainbow. So many that I lost count.

It was like walking in a magical land, with no reception (except enough to get one Whatsapp message come through on my friend’s phone from her mum: “Trump was shot – and he’s ok”).

LESSON ONE: The beauty of the rainbows reminded me that sometimes, the most magical experiences happen when we least expect them. But you need a little challenge – with the rain, and support with the sun to see them.

Things shifted to another level on the second day. The day was meant for 25mls of rain and 42km winds, and the anticipation kept me up at night.

The wind and rain seemed to echo my inner turmoil, and I found myself questioning everything in my life: Who am I, what am I doing, where am I going, and what is really truly important?

As we walked in the inclement weather, it was interesting that we often found ourselves on the path between bushes, with the wind howling around us and the rain coming in sideways but missing landing on us.

LESSON TWO: I realised that it was the perfection of knowing ‘the work’, which I feel is a beautiful symbol of being in the eye of the storm in the outside world, but internally, I am centred and calm. I can endure so much on the outside, but keep on walking.

By the third day, my body had said, ‘enough.’ You must rest. I had a recapped blister the size of Tasmania and as red as a ripe cherry, throbbing with each step.

I could have had to push on through the pain like I had seen when walking the Camino in Spain. Many walked through their suffering and soldiered on.

But I didn’t feel that was my lesson.

LESSON THREE: The lesson was that sometimes stopping is a form of success, and sometimes not finishing is the wisest decision. Sometimes, you have to say no to get what you truly need.

On the third and fourth days, while my friend hiked on her own, I sat in solitude to find myself.

BONUS LESSON ONE: I reflected on my word for the year, which was ‘Emerge”. I felt like I was doing ok to emerge from my cocoon but I worried about being exposed.

My red, raw, and exposed wound was a sign that it was time for me to own it and be okay with whatever was said about me. Just as my foot would heal, any wounds I might perceive from emerging into the big wide would, in time, heal, too.

As I crawled up the stairs to my apartment, covered in the residue of the journey, I realized something profound.

BONUS LESSON TWO: If I were to run a Power Walkshop and either myself or someone else was injured, if they couldn’t complete the hike, staying in the apartment would bring its own profound learnings, perfect for them. Because it was in the struggle and the solitude that brought moments of clarity.

It was in the appreciation of my life and the understanding that every step, no matter how painful, was part of my path.

If you are interested in attending the Power Walkshop in 2025, register for the waitlist here.

With love,

Tanya

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

It’s Not The End

Tanya Cross on July 15, 2024

To achieve maximum growth, it’s crucial to find meaning in the moments of your life. You’re engaging in deep, reflective thinking, and then, you experience an “aha” moment—a shift.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

A shift signifies a transformation from one perspective to another. It’s not the end; it’s merely the beginning.

Each breakthrough brings you closer to the truth, your truth.

Every shift is accompanied by an “aha” moment, those precious gems of realization that reveal how everything is on the way, not in the way. Seeing how these moments fit into the greater perspective of your life is a beautiful experience.

Imagine your brain as a giant puzzle with scattered pieces. Each piece represents bits of information, experiences, and knowledge you’ve accumulated over time.

An “aha” moment occurs when your brain suddenly connects several of these pieces in a new and meaningful way. It’s like finding the pieces and snapping them together to reveal a clearer picture.

Often, through the work we do and the questions we ask, our minds work on problems in the background, even when we’re not actively thinking about them. This is why “aha” moments can come unexpectedly, like when we’re taking a shower or going for a walk. (I look forward to sharing my 100km walk journey with you in a few weeks!)

When you have an “aha” moment, your brain releases a burst of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine. This chemical surge reinforces the new connection you’ve made, making these moments feel so enlightening.

As the puzzle pieces fit together, you start to see how different aspects of your life or a particular problem are interconnected. You experience a shift. Your perception of yourself and the world around you changes.

You have changed.

This broader understanding helps you realize that things are part of a greater purpose for you, a part of a larger, purposeful pattern in your life. Essentially, an “aha” moment is your brain’s way of showing you a new perspective by connecting previously unrelated information, leading to a sudden and profound realization.

With each shift, you realize you can’t go back to your old way of thinking. You’ve been stretched and now see the world through new eyes.

You move forward, integrating this newfound knowledge and perspective into a new way of living.

There is no end to the shifts, the “aha” moments, and the growth.

Remember, the universe is constantly remodelling. It doesn’t stop and say, “I’ve had enough growth, thanks,” or “I’m comfortable where I am.” Personal growth is limitless, and so is what you can achieve in life. Believe in this, and watch your life unfold to more profound levels.

With love,

Tanya

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Embrace The Path

Tanya Cross on July 9, 2024

“True morality consists not in following the well-beaten track, but in finding the true path for ourselves and in fearlessly following it.” Gandhi.

I’m preparing for a 100K walk in a little over a week’s time.

It’s my first 7 days off from all things business in… a long time – 2018…

What I have noticed personally in my own life, the things I’ve run from and tried to avoid have been the very things I have learned about myself the most.

Powerful lesson to walk into the fear, where it is uncomfortable because that is where you will have maximum growth. Doing the things you fear is a way to expand and stretch yourself.

Fear and difficulty are not invitations to shut down and sleep. They’re invitations to dig deep, to plumb your inner reserves, to fund a higher gear of operation so you can discover more about yourself and your capabilities.

Forget

Everything

And

Run

Face

Everything

And

Rise

No one is born fearless. Developing fearlessness begins with choosing not to let the inevitable ups and downs of life stand in the way of your destiny. It is strengthened through continual action, the determination to do all the things that need to be done in their due order whether or not you want to do them.

Failure, or seeming failure, is always preferable to having never tried at all, right?!

“Fall down seven times, get up eight.” – Japanese proverb

Time To Shine

Tell people of your goal to increase your internal pressure and make yourself accountable.

Getting stuck?

A problem shared is a problem halved. Find a mentor who has more experience than you and help them stretch you. Remember, exposing yourself to people who have been where you want to go will help you navigate your way easily.

There is already a solution to every problem, whether you know it or not. Ask for the answer to be revealed.

Now, this isn’t some hippy experience. Try it.

While I was investing my time in Spain, walking the Camino and working on myself, I asked the universe the way to reveal to me in clear daylight what my path was. I met one counsellor, another who decided the day before we met to become a counsellor, I had in-depth discussions on life with every person I met. It was crystal clear because I asked, and when you ask, you receive.

Get clear on what you want in your life and be fearless in its pursuit.

Seek THE WISDOM

Share THE INSIGHT

Be a part of MAXIMUM GROWTH MOVEMENT.

Hugs and heart,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

This Warped My Perception

Tanya Cross on June 28, 2024

I was at the shops with Bonnie over the weekend when she picked up a Barbie doll. She was engrossed, putting its shoes back on and playing with it in the store. As I watched her, I couldn’t help but think about the beauty standards and body image ideals she was being exposed to.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

I thought it would be fun to do some research on body image and its impact on self. Maybe it can have you pondering what era influenced your parents and you and which era is influencing your kids or clients now. And to be aware of a bigger perspective on someone’s healing journey.

Let’s go down the rabbit hole.

Barbie, the iconic doll that has graced toy shelves since the late 1950s, has long been a staple of children’s playtime and imagination. However, the doll has also faced criticism for promoting unrealistic body standards through its design.

If Barbie were a real woman, her proportions would render her unable to hold her head up, walk upright, or perform everyday tasks. Here are some stark contrasts between a life-sized Barbie and the average Australian woman:

Head circumference: Barbie – 22 inches, Average – 22 inches
Neck circumference: Barbie – 9 inches, Average – 12 inches (who even measures this!)
Bust: Barbie – 32 inches, Average – 35 inches
Wrist circumference: Barbie – 3.5 inches, Average – 6 inches
Waist: Barbie – 16 inches, Average – 34 inches
Hips: Barbie – 29 inches, Average – 40 inches

After doing some research, Mattel, the makers of Barbie, have made changes to Barbie’s body, introducing a range of dolls with more diverse body shapes, including “petite,” “tall,” and “curvy” models to better reflect real women’s bodies.

It made me wonder how our standards of beauty have changed. So let’s see.

1900s-1920s: The Gibson Girl AKA TALL HOURGLASS

Ideal: The “Gibson Girl” was tall and statuesque, with a cinched waist, ample bosom, and full hips. This look was both independent and feminine.

Challenge: Women of this era faced the pressure to maintain an hourglass figure, which often required tight corseting (which has tried to make a resurgence again). The emphasis on a perfect, unattainable body, I am sure, leads to body image issues and, let’s face it, the discomfort with the physical constraints of corsets (how can one eat!).

1930s-1950s: Hollywood Glamour AKA CURVEY HOURGLASS

Ideal: The Great Depression and World War II shifted beauty ideals to a more practical yet glamorous look, embodied by Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth, who celebrated fuller figures.

Challenge: The expectation to look glamorous and voluptuous at all times could lead to insecurities among women who did not naturally fit this mould. The emphasis on a perfect, glamorous appearance in everyday life was unrealistic and could foster feelings of inadequacy.

1960s-1980s: Twiggy and the Supermodel Era AKA SUPER SKINNY TALL

Ideal: The 1960s introduced super-slim models like Twiggy, emphasising youth and slenderness. By the 1980s, the ideal shifted to athletic and toned bodies, personified by supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Naomi Campbell.

Challenge: The change to a thin, almost androgynous look in the 1960s and later to an athletic build created significant pressure to conform to these beauty ideals. I know for me, growing up with super skinning was my ‘norm’, and I know many people (male and female) who have struggled with their weight and image.

1990s-2000s: Heroin Chic to Healthy Bodies AKA HEROIN LOOK

Ideal: The 1990s brought the controversial “heroin chic” look, characterised by waifish, androgynous figures like Kate Moss. The 2000s then shifted towards a healthier, more athletic body type, influenced by icons like Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé.

Challenge: The “heroin chic” looks glamorised extremely thin and unhealthy appearances, which could lead to or exacerbate eating disorders and body dysmorphia. The shift to a healthier, more athletic look has shifted, but that still has pressure on women to achieve a specific type of physical fitness and curves (a big butt), which could be unattainable for some.

2010s-Present: Body Diversity AKA EVERY SHAPE

Ideal: The body movement advocates for acceptance of all body types. Brands and media have started to feature diverse models, challenging traditional beauty norms and promoting self-love and inclusivity.

Challenge: While the body movement has made significant strides, it also faces backlash and slow societal change. People may still struggle with deeply ingrained beauty standards and find it challenging to fully embrace diverse body types.

Even though there is more diversity in what beauty is, the images are edited or filtered and are not realistic.

What’s next? I don’t know, but what I do know is that we might want to spend time shifting the influence that society has on you or our clients on what is ideal.

Love the body you’re in because it is where your soul lives.

And this is the perfect body for your mission,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Procastinate

Tanya Cross on June 24, 2024

Yeah, you put things off, more than you’d like. And your list piles up on top of you.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

Your reaction: go make another cup of tea and watch the end of a TV Series (that you just started and have hours to go to get to the end).

Let’s go make another cup of tea and watch the end of a TV Series (that you just started and have hours to go to get to the end).

Procrastination eats you alive.

English writer Edward Young, in his 10,000-line poem entitled: The Complaint: or Night-Thoughts on Life, Death, & Immortality, said, “Procrastination is the thief of time.”

It makes you think about being wise with your time, as life and opportunities can slip away quickly.

But that doesn’t change your behaviour.

The inaction of procrastination is something most people dislike, even going as far as ‘hate’ about themselves. And if they had a magic wand, they’d want it to disappear yesterday.

Why do people dislike it so much?

It’s because it has a behavioural spillover that affects other areas of life.

Procrastinate by not doing your work, then you lay in bed Netflixing, you then don’t move your body, you eat more than your daily quota, and you don’t get your brain thinking. Instead, other people do the thinking for you with whatever you’re watching on Netflix, and it ain’t universal principles; it’s fantasies and fairytales.

Then, the culmination of all of that is that you feel you wasted time and, even more so, your potential.

What does it mean to procrastinate?

It’s intentionally and habitually delaying or putting off doing something till a later time.

People procrastinate because of many reasons, such as those listed below:

The task is too long/complicated/boring/not important/just don’t like it.
They prefer to choose to do their own seemingly pleasurable activities.
They are too over-confident and cocky and believe that they have enough time or competency to complete the task.
They have a ‘care less’ attitude and believe that nothing will happen if they don’t do their work and that people or relationships won’t be affected.
They procrastinate due to nothing else but pure laziness.

So, if you look at the problem under the problem, you’ll see procrastination is the byproduct of something deeper.

You’re not thinking about the future self (check out the post on that one here).

And you’re not able to regulate your mood, like feeling stressed around a piece of work you have to do, and you choose to avoid it, act like it doesn’t exist, knowing full well that it is still there when you peek up over the blanket later.

When you’re able to regulate your mood, you draw the connection between present and future selves and are more able to make wiser decisions.

When you’re on a downward, negative spiral, expect procrastination to continue. (create a paragraph here) Procrastination is an antidote that doesn’t deliver relief. I gotta give it to you straight.

Yet, before we go down the doom and gloom path, like anything, there is an upside to procrastination. Some people prefer time pressure and, therefore, intentionally procrastinate. They have a rush of excitement to get it done in a short period of time and feel accomplished.

Yet, if we delve deeper into this, it could be pride and self-righteousness in feeling smart that leaves to do the task at the last minute. (Soz for seeing the down side so quickly).

Now, this is the opposite of people who procrastinate, which means doing the task way before it needs to be. This could be because of feeling self wrongeuous, sacred of failure and worried about making mistakes.

Studies on procrastination have determined that those who procrastinate are easily distracted by more interesting or fun activities. They’d prefer to seek pleasure than do the hard yards.

They intentionally place more pleasing activities ahead of appointments or deadlines.

Plus, procrastinating individuals tend to sleep, watch television, or play instead of working on more important things in order to distract or distance themselves from responsibilities.

The more you dislike a task, the more you’ll procrastinate and tend to choose more interesting activities instead of working.

Distracting oneself from responsibilities also gives “an out” if one fails at that task. It means you don’t have to go through the pain of failure, just the pain of never starting.

For example, if you have an extremely difficult task, like setting up a new business, writing a book, or doing prep work for a new and challenging client, and you’re afraid of failing, you can protect self-worth or self-esteem by giving an outside excuse or external distracter for failing.

Thus, distraction with another activity, blaming failure on said activity. “I was too busy helping the kids, and I didn’t have time to work.”

Therefore, a unique characteristic of procrastinators is that they tend to immerse themselves in distractions.

So, how do you snap out of this illusion?

Stack up the benefits of what you’d like to do until you’re chomping at the bits to do it.
Say a new mantra, “I have a do it done now attitude” and see things shift.

That’s it for now. I’ve got some Demartini Method application content creation to do for the Maximum Growth Academy that I’ve used every excuse in the book, even had Bonnie get sick, but “I have a do it done now attitude.”

No time like the present.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Have You Heard Of Peter Pan Syndrome?

Tanya Cross on June 18, 2024

Have you heard of Peter Pan Syndrome?

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

It’s when individuals struggle to mature emotionally and mentally in certain areas of their lives despite growing physically and chronologically.

Imagine an individual who excels in their career, perhaps growing a business or even climbing the corporate ladder.

On the surface, they appear successful, dedicated, and driven.

However, beneath this façade of accomplishment lies a reluctance to fully embrace the responsibilities and challenges that come with adult career life…

While they may excel in their specific job tasks, they struggle with broader aspects of professional maturity, such as taking initiative, leadership, or adapting to new roles or environments.

This individual may resist stepping out of their comfort zone or taking on additional responsibilities, preferring the safety and familiarity of their current position.

As a result, despite outward signs of success, they may find themselves stagnating in their career growth, unable or unwilling to pursue opportunities for advancement or personal development.

This is also known as Arrested Development.

This phenomenon manifests in various aspects, such as relationships, responsibilities, and emotional regulations.

Here’s an overview of why it happens and how it manifests:

1. Developmental Trauma: Early life experiences, such as trauma, neglect, or inconsistent caregiving, can disrupt normal emotional and psychological development. These experiences may create a sense of insecurity or fear, leading individuals to avoid emotional intimacy or responsibility as a way to protect themselves.
2. Overprotective Parenting: Sometimes, overprotective or indulgent parenting can hinder a child’s ability to develop independence and autonomy. These individuals may have grown accustomed to having their needs met without having to take responsibility for themselves, leading to a reluctance to face adult challenges.
3. Fear of Failure or Rejection: Some individuals may fear failure or rejection in adult roles or relationships, leading them to avoid situations that could trigger these fears. As a result, they may cling to behaviours or interests associated with childhood as a way to avoid facing these anxieties.
4. Spouse Financially Taking Care Of You: Some individuals may become reliant on their partner to fulfil their financial needs, allowing them to avoid taking responsibility for themselves. This dependence can reinforce a sense of immaturity or reliance on others, inhibiting their ability to develop independence and autonomy.
5. Cultural Factors: Societal norms and expectations can also influence the development of Peter Pan Syndrome. In cultures that prioritize youthfulness or where there is a lack of clear rites of passage into adulthood, individuals may feel less pressure to mature and may prolong behaviours associated with adolescence or childhood.
6. Coping Mechanisms: For some individuals, arrested development serves as a coping mechanism for dealing with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Engaging in activities or behaviours associated with childhood may provide temporary relief from adult responsibilities or emotional distress.

There are many factors that influence Peter Pan Syndrome. It’s a complex interplay of psychological, developmental, and environmental factors that can impede individuals’ ability to fully mature and navigate adulthood effectively.

Why do you want to be aware of Peter Pan Syndrome?

If we are not willing to lean into the responsibility that comes with creating and growing a business, it will be the growth ceiling that keeps us in the status quo.

If you avoid adult responsibilities such as financial management.

For some people, there can be a part that doesn’t want to let go of things associated with childhood, such as video games.

There can be a reluctance to confront or address personal issues or challenges, instead preferring to escape or avoid them.

Which may be why some people struggle to move forward because they are attached to the past.

Human behaviour is complex, and understanding the psychological concepts that impact an individual will help you provide valuable insights into not only your own life but those you work with.

By recognizing the underlying factors that contribute to certain behaviours or patterns, we can better understand why people think, feel, and act the way they do.

This understanding enables you to find the problem under the problem and heal with a deeper awareness.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

This Concept Affects Your Life

Tanya Cross on June 13, 2024

“[Man] is always becoming a new being and undergoing a process of loss and reparation, which affects his soul as well. No man’s character, habits, opinions, desires, pleasures, pains, and fears remain the same; new ones come into existence, and old ones disappear.”

Heraclitus

Oh, the wisdom in this one statement.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

Human beings are never static.

Yes, never.

Our pleasures, pains, and fears are in a state of transformation.

Even our opinions, thoughts and desires.

It is the reality of your human psychology.

You know this because your brain is malleable, continually influenced by new experiences and learning.

You can change habits, learn new skills, and adapt to new environments, no matter who you are, your age, or your life experience.

If life is continually transforming, why are there times in life when it is hard to change?

This is the paradox of life.

We are biologically equipped to adapt and evolve. Our brains have neuroplasticity.

But yet we have a resistance to change. Despite this inherent adaptability, we, at times, don’t want to change.

We seek stability and predictability over uncertainty.

We desire a sense of safety and security.

We want to cling to our current identities even if they’re not who we want to be anymore, fearing that change could lead to loss or uncertainty.

Biologically, our brains conserve energy by relying on established neural pathways, making the formation of new paths—which is necessary for change—more energy-intensive and initially challenging.

And we don’t have the energy to change.

Why, if we are naturally predisposed to change, do we often find it so hard to do?

One part is loss aversion.

Loss aversion is a psychological phenomenon. It is the tendency for people to prefer avoiding losses to acquiring equivalent gains.

The theory suggests that the pain of losing is psychologically more impactful than the pleasure of gaining the same amount.

As loss looms larger in the mind, larger than gains, it affects business and life.

A client springs to mind, they have great income in their current business, and to move into a new version of business, there is the pain of losing the current income, but they aren’t seeing the fullfilment on the other side.

The perception of loss aversion can lead individuals to make choices that avoid losses rather than optimise for potential gains.

Imagine it to be like…

The influence of loss aversion extends beyond economics; it plays a significant role in areas such as risk assessment, politics, and health-related decision-making.

Understanding this bias helps explain why people might act irrationally when faced with potential losses, even when those losses are hypothetical or the gains could outweigh them.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

P.S. If you feel the momentum building, and you’re ready to take your coaching business to new heights, join us in Maximum Growth Academy here.

Dare You Not To Do This

Tanya Cross on June 3, 2024

It’s hard to believe that four years have passed since I led the team at the Breakthrough Experience.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

Looking back, I’m amazed at the journey we’ve all been on—investing in our own growth, building businesses, and navigating the complexities of life.

For me, this journey also involved raising a little one as a single mum, which added a whole new dimension to the adventure.

One thing I’ve realised is that true growth often comes from moments of challenge and deep reflection.

We never really see how far we’ve come until we pause and look back at the winding path we’ve travelled.

It’s like hiking up a mountain—sometimes the climb is tough, but when you reach a viewpoint and see how far you’ve come, it’s a new perspective.

I’ve been thinking a lot about authenticity and the importance of being true to ourselves.

We are here to “Become who you are” (Thanks Nietzsche).

Especially in business and as a coach.

When we build our business around our identity, when we bring our unique story to the marketplace, we create something that no one else can replicate.

There’s no competition when you’re true to yourself because no one else has your story, your perspective, or your voice.

In our journey, it’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing. Social media, industry trends, and external pressures can make us feel like we need to conform or compete.

But here’s the truth: the most impactful ideas and the most profound contributions come from within. When we focus on being our authentic selves, we create something truly original and transformative.

I have been geeking out on Søren Kierkegaard’s work lately, and something I came across has stuck in my mind.

“To dare is to lose one’s footing momentarily. Not to dare is to lose oneself.”

I read it and welled up with tears.

“To dare is to lose one’s footing momentarily. Not to dare is to lose oneself.”

It takes courage to stay true to our path, even when it’s difficult. Even when it feels like the whole world is against you.

It’s in those daring moments that we find our true strength and our most authentic selves.

Your greatest contribution to the world is to be yourself.

In a world that often emphasises competition and financial success, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing a quick buck.

But here’s the thing—when you pursue something that isn’t aligned with your true purpose, it rarely brings lasting fulfilment.

Instead, it can lead to burnout, dissatisfaction, and a sense of emptiness.

Focusing on service is where the real magic happens.

When you dedicate yourself to serving others, you tap into a deeper sense of purpose. You begin to realise that your unique experiences, perspectives, and ideas are exactly what the world needs.

By helping others, you not only contribute to their growth and transformation, but you also find meaning in your own life.

Trust that you can be paid for doing what is purposeful to you. This might seem counterintuitive in a society that often values quick financial gains, but it’s a profound truth.

Build a business that you love, not that you want to burn to the ground.

People are naturally drawn to authenticity and inspiration. They can sense when someone is truly dedicated to their craft and committed to making a difference.

Think about the people who inspire you the most. Chances are, they are individuals who have stayed true to themselves, even in the face of adversity.

They didn’t follow the crowd or compromise their values for short-term gains.

Instead, they focused on their mission and trusted that their dedication would pay off in the long run.

Financial rewards become a byproduct of the value you create rather than the primary goal.

So, don’t get distracted by what others are doing or how much money they’re making.

Stay focused on your journey and your mission…

Be patient.

Be persistent.

Be purposeful.

The world needs your unique contributions, and there is no one else who can do what you do.

With gratitude and love,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

The Hidden Trap

Tanya Cross on May 27, 2024

Human behaviour is fascinating.

Let’s take the psychological phenomena that influence it.

Each phenomenon offers you a little peek through a window into how people perceive, react to, and interact with the world around them.

Whether it’s understanding why we sometimes stick to decisions that aren’t beneficial (like in the sunk cost fallacy) or why we might feel oddly out of place despite our achievements (as with imposter syndrome), these phenomena help us make sense of complex human behaviours.

When we understand the complexities of human behaviour, we can then better understand how to solve problems at a deeper level.

There is one phenomenon that I find people get trapped in and how it impacts you.

Have you ever found yourself deeply invested in something—like a career, course, or financial investment—where you’ve put in significant time, money, and effort, but no longer feel it’s the perfect path for you?

Yet, instead of considering the potential benefits of changing direction, you find yourself focusing on the resources you’ve already spent.

In this moment you are prioritising past investments over future opportunities.

It’s known as the sunk cost fallacy.

It’s a cognitive bias impacting your life.

It leads you to stick with courses, career paths, or relationships that no longer bring value simply because abandoning them feels like admitting failure and wasting resources. You find it difficult to cut your losses and move on.

A client comes to mind when I think of the sunk cost fallacy.

They had invested money, time, and energy in choosing a niche in their coaching business. They had the website, the communication, the content.

But they weren’t getting clients.

When we refined their lane, who they were actually here to serve, and their message to share with the world, they thought ‘how can I change now, because I have invested so much into this other path.’

This is the sunk cost fallacy.

The trap becomes being stuck on a path that you don’t love because the money invested is more important than having a heart in what you do.

Another client who had invested so much money in a property, that if they sold it, they wouldn’t get a return on their investment, but to keep it, it would cost them more money, and a loss of not living life as all additional resources are being poured into the investment.

For anything you change, you have to acknowledge this cognitive bias.

You have to see the lens you are seeing the world, and then you can change it.

Instead of viewing your past investments as wasted, you have to understand how there are valuable learning experiences in everything you do.

Take the lessons with you, and it isn’t wasted.

Use the experience as building blocks rather than barriers, so you can live a life that you feel open to opportunities in the future, rather than being bound by the past.

So if you have a voice inside saying, ‘change your niche, stop the course you are doing and start a new course, or cut your losses and move on,’

Then, perhaps see the potential inside you and focus on what is wisest for the future rather than what has been lost in the past.

Be flexible to change and realign when you feel the inner calling.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

It’s not for you

Tanya Cross on May 20, 2024

You have a love to serve.

But…

Business is not your jam.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

Marketing, finance, or operations—it can feel like stepping into an entirely different and uncomfortable world unless you come into coaching with a background in sales, marketing, or something that directly supports your business.

Either way, business is outside of your comfort zone.

Embracing the business side can be daunting because it requires a different skill set.

Business demands you sometimes shift from a people-centric to a process-centric approach, dealing with admin, emails, automation, and operational tasks.

You have to have a priority shift.

Instead of deep diving into human behaviour, people, the mind, and methodology, you’re not in the trenches of learning about client avatars, sales funnels, google ads…

Plus, with budget constraints and being a one-person show, it’s not always commercially viable or profitable to invest in a team.

At some point in your coaching career, you must transition from being just a coach to owning a coaching business. This often forces you to stop thinking as an individual and start thinking as a business owner.

Imagine owning a product business without understanding the finances, having no processes in place for orders, or knowing what to communicate to customers about refunds or promotions. If you were in that situation, you’d feel overwhelmed and stressed, likely reluctant to grow or scale up your business.

Your coaching business is the same.

Embracing the business side of your coaching practice, while daunting, is essential and a profound opportunity for growth.

For me, it’s like my own personal development boot camp, where I learn to tackle complex challenges, create order, and grow.

As a coach, you already value learning and personal growth.

Applying this mindset to your business means integrating what you know, making your business a true reflection of you.

When you embrace the reality that you are not just a coach but a business owner, you’ll see that your business is an extension of your service.

Investing in yourself and your business enables you to harness its full potential, allowing you to make a greater impact through your coaching.

Remember, your business isn’t just a business—it’s a mission.

But don’t die with the music in you and know you have more to give.

Build an aligned business that reflects who you are to help you share your service with the world.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

What an adventure

Tanya Cross on May 17, 2024

Last weekend, Bonnie and I were gifted an adventure called Splash.

Picture this: an industrial shed, decked out with gear like we were about to take on a paintball war.

But instead of dodging bullets, we were diving into buckets of vibrant paint and balloons filled to the brim with colours.

Frozen was blasting in the background, adding to the surreal atmosphere.

And then came the best part—the moment we turned into human paintbrushes, splashing and smearing paint all over the walls.

At first, Bonnie was a bit hesitant to get messy.

She’s so used to colouring within the lines, to painting on a piece of paper where every stroke has its place.

But here, in this wild playground of paint, there were no rules, no boundaries—just pure creative expression.

I watched as Bonnie tentatively approached the wall, her cup of paint gripped tightly in her hand.

With a flick of her wrist, she attempted her first splash, but it fell short, landing with a disappointing thud on the floor.

Yet, instead of being discouraged, she tried again, this time standing closer to the wall, her determination growing with each attempt.

And then it happened—the moment of messy liberation.

With a bold toss, Bonnie sent a cascade of paint soaring through the air, splattering against the wall in a riot of colour.

Her face lit up, her preconceived expectations of how she should behave shattering like the paint against the wall.

But perhaps the most beautiful part was watching Bonnie let go of those invisible expectations—the ones that told her she had to be neat, orderly, and composed.

In that moment, she embraced the messiness of life, reveling in the freedom to create without constraints, to express without judgement.

Being in the personal development community for over 15 years can sometimes feel like an invisible expectation.

You’re expected to have it all figured out.

You’re expected to work through EVERY emotion you have.

You shouldn’t get angry or upset.

You have to be switched on.

When someone is in need or crisis, you have to help them (no matter if you are on holidays, or it is midnight)

So you are the one who shares advice on helping people in their relationships, but your relationship falls apart,

Or you help people with sales, and you are on an emotional rollercoaster with your own sales,

Or you help people with their health, and you are struggling privately with your own.

And every time you struggle with the very thing you teach, the message you share feels like a betrayal to your client.

Behind the sometimes shiny facade, there’s often a silent but hefty weight that many in this business carry on their shoulders.

You hold expectations that are often set at an elevated level, sometimes beyond what is realistically achievable.

And the greater the expectation, the greater the split between who you are portrayed in business and who you are privately is created.

And yet, you’re not alone in feeling this way.

It’s almost a stage of the journey as a leader and a coach.

The height of this experience was in 2015 for me.

My outer world was on fire, and my inner world was burning to the ground.

But what I realised during this time

You don’t have to be perfect with your clients.

You don’t have to have your sh*t together.

You just have to be real.

Because the moment you portray yourself to be someone you are not, is the moment you set your clients up for unrealistic expectations of themselves, and set them up for failing (or at the very least – judging themselves).

In fact, it’s this very vulnerability that connects you to your clients on a deeper level.

So, instead of beating yourself up for not living up to some impossible (and one-sided) standard of perfection, embrace your humanity.

Embrace the messy,

For within it lies the raw beauty of the human experience.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

All that dies inside

Tanya Cross on May 17, 2024

I have been seeing an acupuncturist in the city for the last three weeks.

She is the niece of the great-great-grandson of a type of Kung Fu.

Can you imagine all that wisdom and knowledge being passed down from generation to generation?

The depth of healing that would be shared on an intellectual and intuitive level would be incredible.

The conversations at family gatherings would be inspiring.

When I’m with her, I imagine I will soak up that knowledge.

“Absorb”.

I wish.

So, what is happening to the knowledge within you?

Because knowing you so well, you have a love to learn.

You’ve attended courses and classes and learned from some of the best.

You have a wealth of knowledge within you.

But too often, we play small and say, ‘I’m not ready, I don’t know enough’ to share your service with the world.

You think the path is to learn more.

Consume another course.

Attend another seminar.

Cram more into that beautiful mind of yours.

So you delay your service for another year.

Next year, you say.

Yet, another year passes.

As a byproduct, bigger doubt creeps in.

But to the degree of your doubt, you have equal confidence.

Your confidence is hidden. But it’s there.

Waiting to be unlocked.

Maybe it’s confidence on camera.

Maybe it’s confidence to deliver your service online in groups.

Maybe it’s confidence to leave your job and work for yourself.

Whatever shape or form you need confidence in,

Don’t die with the music inside.

You don’t need to know more.

You need to do more.

You don’t need more information.

You need more implementation.

And the moment you say you don’t know is the moment you are focused on self and not serving.

And remember this.

It’s a learning journey.

The journey will teach you all you need to know.

You learn on the job.

So, channel a little wisdom from Abraham Lincoln.

You’re not born to win, you’re not born to success. You’re born to live up to the light within you.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

I’d never been so scared

Tanya Cross on May 17, 2024

I was so scared.

I couldn’t sleep.

I’d wake up in the middle of the night with my brain running a million miles an hour.

I was more than scared.

Making the leap.

Into the unknown.

But deep inside, I’d had a calling to change, but I didn’t want to hear it.

I wasn’t ready.

I resisted.

I insisted, ‘No’, it’s not the right time.

But deep down I was really thinking what if it fails, what if people don’t want my service, what if everyone says no.

I open my feed, and it’s coach after coach after coach.

The markets flooded.

Who am I to do this?

But the inner voice persisted.

My animal mind couldn’t drown it out.

Then it happened.

One day, 9 months ago, while attending the Demartini Method Training Program, I was drawn into a room with two newbie coaches.

I coached the coaches, and an intense fire lit inside me.

THIS IS IT.

This is what I’m born to do.

Teaching, educating, training, coaching, and serving.

A blend of all five.

To help coaches share their service with the world.

Lights my heart on fire.

And that moment of calling Justin.

“I have to share something, and it’s really scary to admit”.

Patiently, he waited.

“I want to coach coaches”.

Silence.

“I was thinking the same thought this morning”.

Tears filled my eyes.

That was the day the decision was made.

But it took 9 months for us to reposition Maximum Growth’s marketing, message, the Academy to match our new vision.

Working quietly while no one else is watching, creating training, courses, and content so coaches can do their inner work to shift their business.

It’s inspiring to see a coach create and build their own business.

They get to express themselves in the world.

So Sunday, a few weeks ago, I’m lying in bed.

I’m still scared.

But what I have is certainty.

Certain about the lane we picked. Certain with the direction we’re going. Certain with whom and how we’d love to serve.

I’m settling into being scared.

It’s a part of the transition process.

But each day I take the next step, I fill my heart with the love of service and the service of love.

And everything can be taken away, the business, clients, income but my love to serve will remain.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

I haven’t done this in years

Tanya Cross on May 17, 2024

Picture this. A little kids whines “I’m bored”. Almost instinctively parent A jumps in to alleviate it. “Go do x, x or z”. It’s like we’re wired to give an instant solution. It’s so tempting to fill kids up with moment by moment activities, thinking we’re helping them – and helping our own sanity. But maybe. Just maybe we could lean into being bored.

What Would You Do?

Tanya Cross on May 15, 2024

Imagine this: you’re handed $10,000, no strings attached. What’s the first thing you do with it? Put it away for a rainy day? Invest in your education? Maybe you’d splurge on something you’ve been eyeing for a while or use it to pay off lingering bills?

Show me the money

Tanya Cross on March 21, 2024

Show me the money.

Oh I have your attention.

Speaking with a client this week, we talked about the ways in which people put growth ceilings on their wealth.

Struggles with attracting money
Keeping money in your pocket
Building on your wealth and growing it

Which one are you?

One, two or three? Or a couple or a mix of all three?

Let me paint you a picture of each.

Struggles with attracting money

If it was as easy as x, y, z and make money, then everyone would do it. But it isn’t. But two key factors to attracting money is knowing your values and prioritising your money as important.

If you prioritise other values over earning money or lack a sense of purpose in serving others, it can hinder your ability to attract wealth.

Similarly, if you cap your earning potential due to resistance towards financial obligations like taxes or payments to others, it limits your financial growth.

Not valuing your own offerings, whether it be a product, service, or idea, can make it challenging to attract money as you may struggle to convey its worth or promote yourself effectively.

The purpose of the Financial Responsibility course is to increase your mindset towards money, but at the same time recognizing the value you bring to the table are important steps towards becoming a money magnet.

Keeping money in your pocket

Here are some factors that contribute to why people may have difficulty holding onto money, based on research:

Impulsive Spending: Many individuals struggle with impulse control when it comes to making financial decisions, leading to impulsive purchases and a depletion of savings. We’ll address this in Step X, Hold Onto Money.

Lifestyle Inflation: As individuals’ income increases, they may succumb to lifestyle inflation, increasing their expenses in line with their earnings, making it difficult to build savings or hold onto money.

Unexpected Financial Emergencies: Unforeseen events, such as medical emergencies or major repairs, can significantly impact one’s finances and make it challenging to hold onto money.

Building on your wealth and growing it

Building your wealth will become easier as you know more as well as know how to think rich. Don’t hesitate to develop your mind. It is the single most powerful asset you have to build wealth. And no one can take it away from you. If well trained, you can create the wealth you’d love.

To help ensure that you’re savvy about your own finances, here’s a list of the top 6 key terms to know.

Revenue: Profit is closely tied to revenue, which represents the total income generated by a business from its operations, sales, or services. Profit is calculated by subtracting the total expenses from the revenue.

Expenses: Expenses are the costs incurred by a business in its day-to-day operations. They include various items such as salaries, rent, utilities, raw materials, and marketing expenses. Profit is determined by deducting these expenses from the revenue.

Net Profit: Net profit, also known as the bottom line or net income, is the amount left after subtracting all expenses, including taxes and interest, from the revenue. It represents the actual profit generated by a business.

By mastering these basic finance terms, you get to understand your business, and can analyse the performance of business.

So, some words of wisdom on your finances.

I’m mid-way through creating a course called “Wealth Creation Formula” and it’s going to drop inside of Maximum Growth Academy in April.

Oh I can’t wait for you to get your mittens on this one. It’ll be a financial game changer for you.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

I felt compelled

Tanya Cross on March 8, 2024

I saw this in my studies this week and it moved me that I felt compelled to share it with you.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

‘The soul has been given it’s own ears to hear things the mind does not understand’. Rumi

We try to use our smarts, our logically brain to understand and grasp things, but sometimes it is the exploration to a realm beyond logic that is needed.

Let me explain…

In our Coaches Class, each and every month we have coaches share their inner world, their blocks and challenges in starting, building and growing a coaching practice.

Our logical brain says, ‘ok, what is your plan, your service, your offer. How are you going to communicate with the outside world, on what platforms…’

All head stuff hey.

And that is important.

Buuuttt….

Coaching is more than reason.

Coaching is more than the mind.

It is a deeply healing experience.

It is an journey where you are connected to the divine.

We help people to move through their heads into their hearts to access their soul, the divine.

It is by moving deeper beyond the physical world, the sensing world to, one that can only be apprehended through the inner knowing of the soul.

This is where it whispers to you true wisdom.

A connection with the nature of your existence where you delve into the depths of your own souls.

It is from here you can cultivate your inner self, know your identity and know your path and purpose.

It’s like the power is switched on.

What sparked the idea inside me from the quote was to not only listen with our ears but also with our hearts, to perceive the whispers of the YOUniverse that eludes rational analysis.

This is where we discover the profound truths that is within us, and you have access to.

I hope that this has inspired you with coaching a little more…

Until next week,

Tanya x

Are you struggling with this?

Tanya Cross on February 28, 2024

So you have a desire for things to be different?

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

You say this is the day, month or year…

I’m going to do more of the inner work.

But the end of February rolls around and here we are, not yet taking the biggest action steps towards your inner world goals.

When you find yourself in the land of inaction – with a heart full of desire for action, this is for you.

My question to you is simple.

What is the resistance?

What stops you from self-reflecting?

Self-reflection is a transformative experience.

But it is not uncommon to have obstacles or even resistance along the way.

Here is what I have learned through the 15 years of coaching about doing ‘the work’;

Time constraints with being too busy. Other priorities in life can make it challenging to set aside dedicated time for self-reflection. Because we may prioritize other values or responsibilities or feel overwhelmed, too tired and then self-reflection can be too hard to integrate into our daily life.
Fear of uncomfortable emotions, this old chestnut, arises when we self reflect. We may have spent a lifetime avoiding or repressing, suppress emotions that we fear feeling all the feelz. The fear of facing these emotions acts as a barrier to engaging in deep introspection.
The loud inner critic of judgy judgy self. The “inner critic” may arise during self-reflection, fueling self-doubt and judgment. Thinking you’re too slow, not doing it right, or not getting it makes it challenging to explore moments.
A resistance to change can creep up as self-reflection often leads to insights and realizations that bring on change in your life. Each breakthrough shifts how you perceive yourself and life. A resistance to change impedes the process of self-reflection and inner transformation.
Uncertainty about how to practice self-reflection leads you to feel unsure about where to begin, what questions to ask, and how to do self-reflection and get maximum results.

Self-reflection is a beautiful journey to be on.

Knowing thy self is the beginning of all learning, so they say.

Understanding yourself—your thinking, experiences, emotions, drive, desire, values, vision – is esssential to personal growth which creates a fulfilling life.

When you understand yourself, what is birthed is your identity.

You don’t know who you are if you don’t dive deep into what makes you you.

Your identity emerges from the depths of self-awareness, deep introspection, and exploration of your inner world.

But often, the outer world has laid you with expectations.

From society, family, teachers, friends, colleagues, world leaders…

The influence comes in all shapes and sizes.

As you introspect, you go on a journey of self-understanding, and you uncover layers of your true self.

Then, your true self doesn’t waver with who is around you.

It means when you know your identity, it serves as a compass, guiding you through life and helping you on a path that feels aligned and congruent to you.

It means when life is uncertain and changing, your identity and your sense of self are clear and steady.

So, how do you work through the resistance to self-reflect?

Have a drive to know your identity.

Build up a curiosity to self-reflect.

If you’d love a set of questions to self-reflect, reply with “Self Reflect”, and we will send them over to you.

Answering these self-reflection questions is the best guide I know to turn inward to understand yourself more deeply.

Whether you choose to dive into these questions in one sitting or select a few to ponder upon each day, the aim is to spark profound self-awareness, develop a sense of self and guide you on a path of fulfilment and purpose.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Let me tell you a story

Tanya Cross on February 20, 2024

Let me share a story. It isn’t my story; it is a polarised, inflamed story that you might not have heard before.

let’s level up:

Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

Smash through growth ceilings,
again and again to new heights
in business, leadership and life.

The story goes like this…

Echo found herself on the wrong side of Venus’s wrath, cursed and unable to speak on her own.

While wandering the woods one day, she stumbled upon the strikingly handsome Narcissus amidst a hunting expedition.

Despite her desire to call out to him, the curse held her tongue captive, frustrating her attempts.

Fortunately for Echo, fate intervened as Narcissus became separated from his companions, prompting him to shout, “Is anyone there?”

Echo seized the opportunity to initiate a conversation by completing his phrase, her echoing voice catching his attention.

Their meeting, however, took a tragic turn when Echo, overwhelmed by her infatuation, made advances towards Narcissus, only to be rejected. Ouch!

Undeterred, her unrequited love intensified, mirroring the timeless pattern of unreciprocated affection. AKA to want but not to be wanted in return.

Ultimately, Echo’s journey culminated in a solitary demise within a desolate cave, a poignant end to her unfulfilled longing.

Meanwhile, Narcissus, ensnared by his own vanity, garnered admiration from numerous admirers but remained fixated solely on himself.

In a twist of fate, Narcissus met his demise while gazing at his own reflection in a pool, unable to extend his love beyond his own image.

Thus, their intertwined destinies serve as a cautionary tale of the perils of self-absorption.

…

This story has fascinated people for centuries.

And it was only in 1968 that Heinz Kohut invented the term for Narcissus in which he labelled “narcissistic personality disorder”.

However, if you read about “narcissism,” you’ll find that there is the following behavioural actions,

Sense of entitlement
Manipulative behavior
Need for admiration
Lack of empathy

So let’s look a little further into the behaviours from the DSM-5.

Grandiosity is a pervasive pattern (making themselves appear impressive)
Desire for adoration
Power fantasies, success fantasies, beauty fantasies, or an exaggerated view of love fantasies
A feeling of being entitled
Belief in one’s own specialness, uniqueness, or high status
Empathy for others is lacking
A proclivity to take advantage of others
Arrogant attitude

Really, it is just meaning ‘arsehole’.

People use narcissism in so many environments, work, relationships, politics and everything in between.

And we’ve all met a few of them.

And if we hold a mirror up in true self-reflection style, we are one too.

So why do labels exist in human behaviour, why do we box people in?

A part of our development in our brain is to learn to categorise. Our brains are wired to organise and make sense of the world around us, including the people we encounter.

Labels will essentially help you to simplify complex information and categorise individuals based on behaviors, and make predictions about how they might behave in the future.

But with the double-edged sword, while labels can be useful in certain contexts, they can also be limiting.

How do you know you have labelled someone?

Think of it as catagorising. It is a bunching together a number of traits, actions and inactions.

Some examples are “introvert” or “extrovert,” identities such as “student” or “parent,” or groups of people like “Republican,” “Democrat,” or ‘Labor’ Or “Liberal” or an action like ‘“lazy”.

Let’s explore lazy as a label.

Lazy is avoiding or delaying tasks or responsibilities, lacks drive in x, y or z, and chooses leisure over productive work…

Or extrovert

Energised by interactions with others, engages with talking, or thinks out loud.

A label is a bias and assumption, challenging stereotypes, but doesn’t describe specifically enough what they are doing or not doing.

You can face gaslighting, emotional abuse, being ignored, or being made into a villain if you’re in a relationship with a narcissist.

You can feel as if you’re going insane or as if you’re always walking on eggshells.

Swinging back to the narcissist,

Removing labels helps us to appreciate the individual, but putting a label on them does the same thing too.

Labelling can be a way for you to communicate your experience so others get a picture of what you are describing.

Imagine trying to list everything in one go, but the quick way to say it in one to two words.

Makes sense hey Coach.

So, let’s not label labels as negative.

They serve a purpose.

Now, if you feel you are playing Echo to the Narcissus in your life right now, and want to dissolve this dynamic, then reply with ‘Echo,’

We have a Transformation Day coming up and it’s perfect to work through this dynamic.

We’ll dissolve the dynamic and get you to find your voice.

With oodles of love,

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

I Guarantee This Coach

Tanya Cross on January 31, 2024

Hi Coach,

When a person is stuck in the trauma of their past, they find it hard to imagine a future for themselves.

Couple this with the loss of identity – who the hell are you? And not having a sense of self can lead to deep dark depression and even a suicidal state of mind.

I want to explore with you later, the suicidal thoughts.

Now, this might not be you now, but I hope that this information is stored in your mind for if you fall into the darkness, or you are working with a client who is. And, if this is you right now, reading this, you have come to the perfect place for the perfect message.

For some people, their struggle is with choices they make that do not seem to align with who they wish to be.

Some struggle with regrets of the past. Some do not love the skin they are in.

The struggle is real.

Some people grappled with a sense of stagnation. It’s like their identity is rooted in the past, and they can’t seem to move forward.

Time becomes this eternal loop. Stuck in the past. No conscious perception of a brighter future.

When a problem arises, it feels like a replication of a past problem. Over and over again, unable to envision a viable escape, this is when people can think about committing suicide.

Instead of dealing with the mayhem in their memories, they push them away.

It takes courage to review your life, face things that are painful, and ask quality questions to appreciate the choices you made under challenging circumstances.

Yes, it is so difficult to face yourself.

But what do you do when you are having thoughts of ending your life?

Do this one thing immediately.

Change any “you” statements to “we” to give you a greater sense of belonging.

When you belong, you feel connected to communication, and that people care, you feel less isolated and alone, and can build connections that make you want to stay there.

The next is to tell you that it will get better – but that means nothing to you, and, in fact, is only selling you an illusion of a bright and sparkly future, which you are rejecting anyway.

Instead – I am going to get real with you.

Life is hard.

Life is a struggle.

It is difficult.

But your struggle is what makes you beautiful.

You have the choice to perceive things through a different lens.

Because a little wisdom in the confusion of Confucius (hehe) is the greatest gift in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

At Maximum Growth, week in, and week out, we share tools for you to be able to shift the lens to get up and find the light.

Come join us for our weekly Demartini Method Classes in our Mindset Evolution Membership, or join the Business Growth Membership to create an aligned business (do business your way baby).

We show up each and every week to class, throughout the year.

Make 2024 the best year yet!

With love and oodles of life,

Tanya “Coach” Cross

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

P.S. I’m doing the Power Walkshop in Sydney this year, want to know more?! Click here.

P.P.S. The Transformational Experience is coming up, come join us! Click here.

What About This Dynamic?

Tanya Cross on January 31, 2024

As a coach, I’ve dealt with clients who have experienced all sorts of challenges.

Passive-aggressive behaviour is one of them.

It’s when someone deals with anger or frustration by, for example:

Saying they’re ok when they are not
Pouting
Giving the silent treatment
Agreeing to do something and then not following through
Responding with sarcasm

When a client wants this dynamic to shift, here is what is important.

Find the problem under the problem.

Why?

Let’s define what exactly passive-aggressive behaviour is and why people demonstrate it.

Then, we’ll see how and why this phrase is so effective at shifting the perspective of the client.

Passive aggression is the display of perceived negative feelings, resentment, and aggression in an unassertive or “passive” manner.

It often involves subtle and covert actions that may not be immediately recognizable as hostile.

Some characteristics of passive aggression:

Indirect Communication: Passive-aggressive individuals may avoid direct communication of their feelings or needs, making it challenging for others to understand their true emotions. This is shown when someone repeatedly states that they’re fine, even when it’s obvious that they’re not. Or, they completely shut down communication and refuse to discuss what is going on in their mind.
Procrastination: Deliberate delays and procrastination can be a way for passive-aggressive individuals to express resistance or opposition.
Sarcasm and Veiled Criticism: Passive aggression often involves the use of sarcasm or veiled criticism, making it difficult for others to pinpoint the issue.

Passive aggression can stem from various sources, including childhood experiences, interpersonal conflicts, or a fear of expressing one’s needs directly.

Further, since the underlying situation never gets resolved, it continues to be a problem and often comes back up repeatedly.

But if it is eroding relationships, why do people do it?

It is because people who are demonstrating passive aggressive behaviour are conflict-avoidant.

Instead of addressing conflicts directly and head-on, they tend to express their negative feelings or opposition in more indirect ways. This behaviour stems from a reluctance to openly confront or engage in conflicts, possibly due to fear of rejection, criticism, or feeling emotions they perceive to be uncomfortable.

So when you have a client dealing with passive aggressiveness.

Asking – how does them demonstrating passive aggressiveness serve only shifts the surface dynamic.

Let’s get back to finding the problem under the problem.

Not expressing themselves
Avoiding communication
Avoiding conflict
Avoid responsibility
Power imbalance (passive aggressive increases power within them)
Fear of rejection/not being liked
Not responding in a timely manner in arguments

These are some of the problems under the problem for the person being passive aggressive.

But for the client, you want to be thinking about

Their communication style
Giving mixed messages
Information being withheld
Competitive communication
Inconsistent communication

So for the client, the experience of passive aggressive can be an opportunity for them to step up!

Active communication is one skill that people can learn that’ll help with disarming people and shifting communication dynamics.

Here are some examples of active communication:

“I feel overwhelmed when there’s too much on my plate.”
“It’s important for me to have some alone time. I value my personal space.”
“I’d appreciate it if you could be more mindful of your tone when speaking to me.”
“I don’t like feeling pressured to do this.”
“I find it challenging to concentrate in a noisy environment. Can we keep it quieter?”
“I need more notice. It’s important for me to plan things like this.”
“I value punctuality. It’s frustrating for me when meetings start late.”
“I need acknowledgment for my contributions. It’s important for my motivation.”
“Can you please ask me before making this type of decision?”
“I’m uncomfortable with gossip. Let’s focus on positive and constructive conversations.”
“I prefer to receive feedback privately rather than in a group setting.”
“I don’t like it when assumptions are made about my intentions. Let’s clarify things.”
“I need time to decompress after a long day. Can we discuss important matters later in the evening?

‘I’ statements are not ‘you’ statements. You statements are accusatory and blaming and of course, people will not manage those conversations well. I statements help you to communicate how you feel, from your perspective.

When you clearly communicate your own feelings and expectations while also telling the other person that you don’t know what’s wrong and that you’d like them to express how they’re thinking or feeling.

As a coach, it is not just mindset that can help your client, it is also communication skill sets that can help your clients to navigate passive aggressiveness.

With love and sprinkles of wisdom,

Tanya “not so cross” Cross

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator
BAppSoSc (Counselling)
Maximum Growth

P.S. I’m doing the Power Walkshop in Sydney this year, want to know more?! Click here.
P.P.S. Interested in joining the Power Walkshop in Sydney? Click here.

Which One Are You?

Tanya Cross on January 18, 2024

Australia did well at the Golden Globes this week.

3 Aussie actresses won.

Sarah Snook, Elizabeth Debicki, and Margot Robbie.

Snook, who grew up in Adelaide, was awarded Best Actress in a Drama Series in Succession.
Elizabeth Debicki, who grew up in Melbourne, won the award for the best supporting actress on television for her role as Princess Diana in The Crown.
Margot Robbie, from Queensland, didn’t receive a specific award, but instead, Barbie won the award for the best cinematic and box office achievement.

You see, all three actors made their film or TV debut in 2009, 2011, and 2008 respectively.

That’s only 15, 13, and 16 years later that they are being recognised globally for their work.

Sarah Snook’s breakthrough in her career happened in 2014, 5 years after she started acting in TV and film.

Elizabeth Debicki’s breakthrough in her career happened in 2017, 6 years after she began her craft.

Margot Robbie’s breakthrough in her career happened in 2013, 5 years after she started acting in TV and film.

Inexperienced Initiation

Let’s face it, at the beginning of any career there is a lot of uncertainty. And certainly as a coach.

Because it isn’t about acting on a screen, it is about helping people with their lives.

When it comes to producing the results you want, it isn’t happening. You’re not fully aware of your skills, or the individual’s problems.

However, what is beautiful about this stage is it is the starting point for growth. This, coupled with the love to serve, you are on your way to mastery.

Awareness Awakening

Then you begin to see the path, you gain experience, and become consciously aware of your gaps in knowledge and skills.

During this phase, we have early challenges and setbacks at this time. Maybe it is a lack of clients streaming through the door or a failed session.

This allows you the opportunity to be tested, ‘Do you really want this?’

As you begin to develop your skills, you’re becoming more conscious of your incompetence (ouch – but true).

This is where you are seeking coaches, classes, and courses to upskill.

Proficiency Pursuit

With dedication to your craft as a coach, and continuous learning, you then move onto the stage of being dedicated to your craft.

You know you want this path, you have overcome the hurdles along the way, and you want to be persistent to achieve mastery.

This is where you have honed your craft, actively applying your skills with a heightened awareness.

Sarah Snook’s breakthrough in 2014, Elizabeth Debicki’s in 2017, and Margot Robbie’s in 2013 reflect this phase of deliberate skill application.

As a coach, when you start witnessing significant outcomes with clients, there’s a heightened awareness of your skill level. However, it can often feel like a rollercoaster of confidence and uncertainty.

There are moments when you feel assured and confident in your abilities, and everything seems to align seamlessly.

Yet, with the arrival of the next client, you suddenly feel unfamiliar, and you find yourself grappling with uncertainty once again.

Effortless Expertise

Now, this is where the magic really happens…

The pinnacle of mastery is reaching a state of unconscious competence. Kind of like, ‘I can do this with my eyes closed’ moment.

This is when skills become second nature, and you, as the coach, can perform at a high level without thinking.

The recognition at the Golden Globes symbolizes the culmination of their journey, showcasing that they’ve reached a point where their mastery is second nature.

This is where you think ‘Ah, I don’t need a coach anymore.’

But, what is important to remember when you get to this stage…

Pinnacle, means the top, but the moment you don’t see another pinnacle in the distance (that you create), then you’re on the way down.

There is room for growth and mastery here.

So curious, which stage are you at on your coaching journey?

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth