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Why do you keep learning?

Studio1 Design on November 27, 2024

Is Your Learning Leading You Somewhere or Just Keeping You Busy?

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Grow Yourself To Grow Your Business

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

Let’s talk about something I see often with founders.

A full folder of programs.
Courses still sitting in inboxes.
Tabs open with masterclasses, eBooks, worksheets.

You love to learn.
But deep down, there’s a quiet question:

“Is all of this actually moving me forward?”

You’re not alone in that.

Why Are You Really Learning?

Learning is powerful.
But only when it’s intentional.

Some founders learn because they’re deeply curious.
Some learn to stay ahead.
Some learn because they’re building something real and need tools.

But others?
They learn because it feels productive, even when it’s actually a delay tactic.
Or because it soothes the discomfort of not feeling ready.
Or because it’s safer to stay in prep mode than to risk being seen.

None of this is wrong.
But it’s worth noticing.

Your Growth Isn’t in the Course, It’s in the Application

You don’t get results from consuming.
You get results from integrating.

It’s not about how many trainings you’ve completed.

It’s about how often you stop, reflect, and ask:

• Why am I learning this?
• What am I going to do with it?
• What outcome do I want it to create?

When you know your reason, you give your learning direction.
You start measuring success not just in certificates but in clarity, confidence, and traction.

The Learn and Earn Cycle (And How Founders Use It Differently)

Here’s the pattern I teach my clients:
Learn, Apply, Earn, Reinvest.

It’s not linear. It’s a cycle.
And when you use it intentionally, it becomes one of your most powerful tools.

You:

• Take in something new
• Apply it, even messily
• Refine it through lived experience
• Earn from it, whether financially or energetically
• Then reinvest in what will elevate you next

That is the loop that sustains real momentum, not just motion.

What’s Fueling Your Learning Right Now?

Let’s get honest for a second.
Some of us learn to prove our worth.
Some to avoid stillness.
Some because the discomfort of not knowing feels like failure.

But when you name what’s underneath, you reclaim your power.

If your learning is driven by fear or pressure, it will wear you out.
If it’s rooted in alignment and clarity, it will expand you.

And that is where the real return lives.

You Don’t Need Another Course, You Need to Know Why

Before you open another module or buy another download, ask:
• Am I learning to move forward or to avoid discomfort?
• Do I know what I’ll do with this knowledge?
• Am I measuring my growth based on what matters to me?

You don’t need to learn more.
You need to learn with purpose.

Learn Less. Apply More. Move Forward.

This season, let your learning be lean.
Let it be aligned.
Let it be something that fuels your actual expansion, not just your content library.

Because as a founder, your real power isn’t in what you know.
It’s in what you do with what you know.

Tanya “growth learner” x

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

The paradox is real

Studio1 Design on November 20, 2024

The Vulnerability Paradox in Leadership

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.

As a founder, you are often expected to lead with strength, clarity, and vision.
To hold it together.
To have it together.

Whether you’re building a team, guiding clients, or shaping a brand, the pressure to embody what you teach is real.

It’s like the personal trainer with a toned body or the interior designer with a flawless home.
The assumption is that your life should reflect your work.

But what if it doesn’t?
What if, behind the scenes, you’re navigating doubt, fatigue, or your own growth edge?

This is the vulnerability paradox.
You are leading others toward truth and alignment, while wondering if you’re allowed to show up in your own mess.

The Mask of Perfection is a Heavy One

In leadership, there is often an unspoken belief that strength means control.
That confidence means certainty.
That you are supposed to be the one who knows, the one who holds space, the one who does not flinch.

But hiding what is real creates more tension.
It separates you from the very thing that makes your leadership powerful: your humanity.

The pressure to be perfect can become a quiet prison.
One that disconnects you from support, keeps you isolated, and erodes the integrity of your voice.

Your Humanity is Not a Liability

Vulnerability is not weakness.
It is not a lack of competence.
It is the path back to connection.

In my own life, I remember the exact moment the mask cracked.
It was confronting.
And also freeing.

I realised that the fear of being seen was keeping me from being known.
And that my impact did not require perfection.
It required presence.

Finding the Balance Between Truth and Trust

You don’t need to spill everything.
You don’t need to perform your struggle.
But you also don’t need to hide.

Your people can feel the difference between curated leadership and embodied truth.

When you allow space for your vulnerability, you create space for theirs too.
That is where trust lives.
Not in having it all figured out, but in being real with what you are figuring out now.

Leadership Can Be Lonely Without Safe Spaces

Many founders find themselves in this in-between space.
You are holding others, but not sure who is holding you.

Your team looks to you.
Your clients look to you.
Your community looks to you.

And it can leave you wondering where you get to lay it down.

This is why having your own container matters.
Whether it is peer mentorship, supervision, or a coach who sees the real you.

Spaces where you are not the leader, but the human.
Not the one solving, but the one processing.

You Don’t Have to Choose Between Power and Vulnerability

Both can live in you.
At the same time.

You can be confident and confused.
Solid and shifting.
Held and still learning to hold yourself.

The idea that you must hide your humanness to lead well is a lie.
In truth, it is your humanness that makes your leadership matter.

The Paradox That Sets You Free

Here is what I know.

The more you embrace your vulnerability, the more you actualise your potential.
Not because everything becomes easy.
But because nothing is hidden.

You stop wasting energy trying to hold a version of you that is not needed.

You let people feel the real you.
And that is where trust, clarity, and expansion begin.

You are not alone in this.
And you were never meant to carry it all without being seen.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Are You Solving Problems the Hard Way?

Studio1 Design on November 12, 2024

What If the Answer Has Been There All Along?

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.

Have you ever found yourself deep in a business problem, working harder, thinking more hours or more effort will fix it?

What if the real solution is not about working more but seeing differently?

Let’s take a moment and look at something simple.

You want to know
80 percent of 10 = 8
But you can flip it:
10 percent of 80 = 8

Same answer, different way in.
It feels lighter. More direct. Less tangled.

That is the power of shifting perspective.
And it applies to more than just numbers.

Your Challenges Might Be Simpler Than You Think

Most founders are natural problem solvers.
You hold a lot. You think fast. You carry responsibility well.

But with that can come a habit of working through force.
More effort. More action. More trying.

Sometimes that works. But not always.
Especially when the problem isn’t lack of action, but lack of clarity.

It is not about being bad at business.
Just like it is not about being bad at math.

You might just be missing the simple way through.

What Are You Avoiding Because It Feels Too Hard?

We all do it.
Avoiding the spreadsheet. Putting off the hard conversation.
Delaying the decision. Saying we are “not ready yet.”

But usually, what feels hard is just unfamiliar.

And what is unfamiliar becomes easier once we have a better tool, a better lens, or someone beside us helping us shift how we see.

Most Problems Are Not Solved by More Effort

They are solved by seeing the real pattern underneath.
They are solved when someone holds up a mirror and says,
“What if we look at this a different way?”

That one moment of clarity changes everything.
What felt overwhelming becomes actionable.
What felt confusing becomes clear.

The Role of the Right Guide

One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself as a founder is a space to reflect.
Not just to talk about the issue, but to be shown another route you hadn’t seen yet.

Sometimes the best support is not someone who gives you the answer, but someone who gives you a better question.

You don’t have to be the one who knows everything.
You just have to be the one willing to look.

This Is Not About Doing More

It is about doing differently.
Shifting from effort to insight.
From stuck to forward.
From foggy to clear.

And sometimes, all it takes is one shift in how you look at a thing for the whole picture to change.

If you’ve been circling the same business challenge, maybe it is time to stop pressing harder and start asking what else is possible.

Because ease is not found by avoiding the problem.
It is found by seeing it in a new light.

And that changes everything.

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Do you have the courage?

Studio1 Design on November 12, 2024

One of my favourite aspects of the Demartini Method and its application is the idea that “you don’t see the world as it is, but as you are.”

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.

This speaks to the deeply subjective nature of perception.

Everyone interprets the world through their own lens—shaped by their experiences, values, and beliefs.

This got me thinking…

In relationships, this dynamic becomes even more pronounced: we tend to see others not as they truly are but as reflections of ourselves.

We unconsciously project our own perspectives, values, and expectations onto others.

This happens because we assume that what we appreciate, value, and find meaningful must also resonate with them in the same way.

But here’s the challenge: no one is a perfect exact mirror of us.

Each individual carries their own set of experiences, values, and ways of navigating life. Even when we find common ground, expecting others to align perfectly with our worldview creates friction.

Misalignment is almost inevitable when we assume that others should think, act, and care just as we do.

Yet, so many people fall into this trap:

The business owner who expects their team to work as tirelessly as they do.
The manager who assumes everyone is motivated by the same incentives.
The parent who expects their children to embrace the same values they grew up with.
The friend who assumes that giving advice is the best way to show care.

This tendency becomes particularly noticeable in emotional relationships.

If we value certain expressions of affection or communication, we might expect others to do the same, assuming that our way of expressing love should naturally resonate with them.

But relationships are nuanced, and people express intimacy in ways shaped by their unique life experiences.

No one thinks or feels exactly the same as we do.

Yet, we often wish they would.

We project assumptions onto them, expecting them to meet our unspoken expectations.

This creates a gap between what we hope for and what is real. And it’s in that gap that discord impacts our interactions.

“You don’t see the world as it is, but as you are.”

This is the paradox of the work…

The world, and especially the people in it, reflects back parts of ourselves.

When we embrace this truth, we begin to see relationships differently—not as mirrors that should perfectly reflect us, but as opportunities to understand and appreciate the beauty in our differences.

With this work, it’s not absolute. “You don’t see the world as it is, but as you are.” does not apply to every situation in every moment.

Sometimes, it’s not about making others align with who we are—it’s about understanding them as they are.

“True connection begins not with seeing others through our lens, but with the courage to understand them through theirs.”

Tanya x

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Avoid the Halloween Panic

Studio1 Design on October 30, 2024

Do you welcome trick-or-treaters with a big bowl of candy, or do you switch off the lights and hope nobody knocks?

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.

If you’re in the second group, you’re not alone. We had a neighbour—let’s call her June—who wasn’t a fan of unexpected visitors. It didn’t matter if it was Halloween or just another Tuesday; any surprise knock at the door made her uncomfortable.

The same thing happens in business. When a refund request or complaint shows up out of the blue, it can throw you off balance. Those moments have a way of catching you off guard, leaving you scrambling for a response.

So, how do you handle these “trick-or-treat” moments in your business?

5 Ways to Handle Refunds, Complaints, and Conflict

1. Stay Calm—It’s Part of the Game

Cancelations, refunds, and complaints are part of running a business. Sometimes, they feel personal, but they’re not. Not every upset member is a troublemaker—some are simply passionate or frustrated. The key is to separate genuine feedback from disruptive behaviour.

2. Remove Major Issues Quickly

If someone crosses the line with harassing or inappropriate behaviour, don’t hesitate to remove them immediately. Look at your mindset, do the work. Your community needs clear boundaries, and it’s okay to enforce them. Make sure you have strong guidelines in place before issues arise, so everyone knows what behaviour won’t be tolerated (yes – it’s ok to do the work and kick someone out).

3. Be Ready for Payment Disputes
Payment issues are bound to happen, often due to misunderstandings. When they do, try reaching out directly to the member to resolve the problem first. A quick conversation can often prevent things from escalating further. You’re not running a friendship business – it’s a business.

4. Make Canceling Painless
If a member wants to cancel, make it easy for them. The smoother the process, the better their impression of your business—even if they’re leaving. Sometimes, people return down the road if their departure is handled respectfully and professionally.

5. Embrace Feedback (Even When It Hurts – in your perception)
Negative feedback can sting, but it’s often an opportunity in disguise. If you notice the same issues being raised repeatedly, it’s a sign that something might need adjusting. Proactively gather feedback from members to stay ahead and continuously improve their experience.

Setting Boundaries

We had a session in Maximum Growth Academy a few weeks ago on a boundary setting. It helps to see what you are willing and what you are not willing to accept in business.

Handling refunds, complaints, or conflicts isn’t fun, but having solid processes and clear boundaries makes all the difference.

With the systems in place, you can handle issues smoothly and keep your community thriving—without the stress of unexpected “trick-or-treat” surprises.

When things don’t go as planned, just remember: the best businesses aren’t the ones without problems—they’re the ones that handle problems well.

With love and sprinkles of spiders,

Tanya “Scary” Cross.

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

The key to sustainable growth

Studio1 Design on October 24, 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the increasing demands of business, personal life, and our own inner expectations.

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.

Many service business owners find themselves caught in a cycle of constant activity, pushing forward with ambition yet losing sight of the deeper purpose that once drove them.

But what if the key to unlocking sustainable growth in your business lies not in doing more but aligning more deeply with who you are?

Let’s explore why alignment matters, how it affects your business, and what you can do to bring more alignment into your daily life.

Alignment is, at its core, the process of connecting who you are with what you do.

When you’re aligned, your actions are in harmony with your values, purpose, and vision.

Alignment isn’t just about professional success—it’s about finding a flow that merges personal fulfillment with business growth.

Many service business owners find themselves disconnected from this alignment.

They might be working hard and achieving external success, but inside, something feels off.

That “something” is often a misalignment between their inner world and their outer world.

Without alignment, even the best business strategies can fall flat.

When you’re not aligned with your work, you’re more likely to feel drained, frustrated, and disconnected.

You may find yourself questioning your path, wondering why success feels hollow.

Misalignment can lead to burnout, which often manifests as emotional exhaustion, lack of motivation, or even health issues.

As a leader, people look to you for guidance. But if you’re out of sync with yourself, it’s hard to inspire others.

Authenticity stems from alignment, and when you’re clear on who you are, others naturally resonate with your message.

Business challenges often reflect personal ones. If you’re not aligned, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking external problems need external solutions. But in reality, sustainable growth happens when you shift internally first.

The journey toward alignment begins with self-awareness—taking time to reflect on what truly matters to you.

This involves reconnecting with the purpose and values that inspired you to start your business in the first place.

When you understand the deeper “why” behind your actions, you can make decisions that are in harmony with both your personal and professional life.

Alignment allows you to focus on what is essential, reducing unnecessary stress and creating more meaningful momentum.

When you’re aligned, your business becomes an authentic extension of who you are, and this authenticity draws in the right opportunities, clients, and partnerships.

Instead of chasing success, you attract it naturally by staying true to yourself.

People are inspired by leaders who embody their message, and alignment equips you to lead from a place of integrity, which creates deeper trust, influence and authority with those around you.

It’s not about doing more but about doing what matters most.

When your inner and outer worlds are in sync, that’s the key to sustainable growth.

How aligned are you?

Tanya “Growth Coach” Cross

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

Does your profit have this one thing?

Studio1 Design on October 16, 2024

In the world of service-based businesses, success is often measured by the bottom line—how much profit you’re making.

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.

But for those truly driven by a purpose, the journey is about much more than just numbers.

It’s about maximising profit while also fulfilling a deeper mission and unlocking the full potential of your business and yourself.

Profit is essential for any business, but it’s not just about making money for the sake of it.

We aren’t selling our souls for money, nor at the other end of the spectrum and giving away our service for free.

For service business owners, profit is a resource that enables you to do more, serve more, and reach more people.

When you view profit through this lens, it becomes a tool for growth and expansion.

Your profit has a purpose.

To maximise profit with purpose, you want to make sure you have a goal for the profit you make.

Make meaning with your money.

Every business has a reason for being, but service businesses are often rooted in a desire to make a difference.

That is why I love working with service-based business owners who have a big heart.

Whether you’re providing coaching or another form of service, your work likely stems from a calling to do what you do.

I know I have it. I can’t deny it.

And I couldn’t stop serving now even if everything was taken from me. I’d find another way to serve.

I know you have that in you, too.

Keeping your purpose front and centre of your mind ensures that your actions are aligned with your mission, and it helps you make decisions that are not only profitable but also meaningful.

This helps to then build a business you love and not one you want to burn to the ground.

So, how do you unlock your full potential in a business that isn’t just about the dollars through the door?

💡 It requires more than just hard work, blood, sweat and tears.

💡 It requires self-awareness and a willingness to grow.

💡 It’s about realising that the only limits you have are the ones you place on yourself.

Another critical aspect of unlocking your potential is surrounding yourself with the right support system.

This could be in the form of mentors, coaches, or a community of like-minded business owners.

Having people who believe in you and your mission can provide the encouragement and guidance you need to push past obstacles and reach new heights.

I know that on my journey, what I have been able to do has been because of the people I have put in my corner.

The ultimate goal, I think anyway, is to create a synergy between profit, purpose, and potential.

While profit is the lifeblood of any business, purpose provides direction and meaning, and potential represents the boundless opportunities for growth and impact.

When profit, purpose, and potential are in balance, your business becomes more than just a source of income—it becomes a powerful force for making a difference in humanity, and you are growing and evolving along the way.

That’s why in my private coaching, I focus on empowering service business owners to maximise profit, fulfil their purpose, and unlock their full potential.

This synergy of profit, purpose and potential creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond your immediate sphere of influence.

You’re not only achieving financial success, but you’re also making a lasting impact on your clients, your community, and the world.

Your life’s mission is to discover your purpose and pour your heart and soul into bringing it to life.

Tanya “Growth Coach” Cross

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

The real thing

Studio1 Design on October 9, 2024

You’ve had success.

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 won clients and earned referrals.

But lately, it feels like things have slowed down.

New leads aren’t coming in as easily, your inbox is nearly empty, and your phone stays silent.

You need more clients, and you need them now.

But despite all the tools, technologies, and courses you’ve invested in, nothing seems to be bringing in leads or generating the profit you want.

You feel stuck, out of options.

It’s getting closer and closer to the end of the year.

You want it all.

Family. Finances. Thriving health and business.

Yes. You can make a real impact, build a legacy, and create the life you’ve always dreamed of.

You can have it all – whatever ‘it’ is to you.

Live your life not by default but by design.

It just takes the right positioning, the right messaging, and the right support.

But too often, we try to figure it all out on our own.

Not realising the cost of not seeking help sooner.

And I’m here to help you step into your spotlight.

With decades of hands-on business experience and insights from working with entrepreneurs, business owners, and high-profile leaders worldwide, my job is to empower service business owners to maximise profit, fulfil their purpose, and unlock their full potential.

To get clarity on their mission and take bold action towards it.

But I don’t just tell people how to do it.

I do it. I live the work I share.

I know my lane, I know my niche, and I have my own IP that I share with clients.

Over the years, I have secured multiple 6-figure contracts with clients. I have helped transform over 30,000 people’s lives.

And you….

You have the potential to unleash your brilliance.

Certainty is your secret sauce.

More certainty in your service, your offer, your IP, all of it.

But all that happens when you are in alignment with your inner and outer world.

With certainty brings alignment. Alignment brings certainty.

Most people want to make money. But why we do what we do goes beyond just making money.

It’s about growing your business, stepping out of the shadows, and chasing what you truly want. And in alignment with who you are.

It’s about inspiring influence and impact. And in a way, you get paid to be you.

If you’re ready to receive the recognition you deserve, build the business you love and make an inspiring impact, let’s connect.

Tanya “Growth Coach” Cross

Leadership Coach & The Coaches Coach

Master Certified Demartini Method Facilitator

BAppSoSc (Counselling)

Maximum Growth

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.

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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…

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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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