The Joy! A.A.C.T. podcast is your weekly guide to transforming heartache into joy after divorce or breakup. Accredited breakup & divorce coach Dr. Lisa Summerour guides successful women through relationship transitions using her proprietary A.A.C.T.™ framework: Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust. Whether you're navigating a fresh breakup, going through divorce, or sensing changes in your relationship, this podcast provides practical strategies, authentic support, and transfo ...
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Hosted by professional and personal life coach, author, speaker, facilitator, and renaissance woman, Dr. Lisa Summerour - Live Empowered invites you to be inspired. Join her for interviews, conversations, and educational programming designed to encourage you to experiment with and explore different aspects of your life so you can find your unique paths to more empowered living. Give yourself permission to lead your best self forward. Join the conversation where Empowered People, Empower Peop ...
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Welcome to "Divorce is Not a Destination, I'm your host, breakup and divorce strategist, Dr. Lisa Summerour. If you've ever been through a breakup or divorce, you know firsthand how stressful it can be. Some say it's comparable to the pain of losing a loved one. But here's the thing – divorce doesn't have to be the end of your story. It's not a destination, but a new beginning. Join me as I bring you a unique blend of humor and straight talk. Together, we'll navigate the ups and downs, drama ...
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Setting Boundaries with Your Ex for Peace and Joy
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16:44Join accredited breakup and divorce coach Dr. Lisa on 'The Joy! A.A.C.T.™' as she guides women through healing and transformation after a breakup or divorce. This episode focuses on the crucial step of setting boundaries with an ex. Dr. Lisa shares her personal story and introduces her A.A.C.T.™ framework—Accountability, Alignment, Communication, a…
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Join Dr. Lisa, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, in this episode of The Joy Act podcast as she delves into the feelings of loneliness and anxiety that often accompany the end of relationships. Dr. Lisa explains the proprietary Joy A.A.C.T.™ framework, which stands for Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust. Learn actionable step…
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Building Stronger Bonds After Divorce: Adult Children, Boundaries & Joy
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38:45Join Dr. Lisa, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, as she explores how to find joy after a divorce, with a particular focus on the nuances of maintaining relationships with adult children. Dr. Lisa discusses the importance of fostering independent relationships with each parent, handling situations when children pick sides, and essential steps…
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Friendly Fire: How Some Friendships Don’t Survive the Divorce
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38:47In this episode of 'The Joy Act,' Dr. Lisa Summerour, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, explores the concept of 'friendly fire'—how ending a romantic relationship can impact friendships. Dr. Lisa delves into why some friendships dissolve post-breakup while others persist, providing insights from both sides: friends and the person going throu…
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The Role of Family & Friends in Divorce: Support, Boundaries & Healing
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38:51In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T™, Dr. Lisa Summerour, an accredited breakup and divorce coach, discusses the crucial role that family and friends play during a breakup, separation, or divorce. She shares personal experiences and insights on how loved ones can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and encourage growth. Dr. Summerour emphasiz…
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Managing the Anxiety of Being Alone After a Breakup or Divorce
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34:50Join Dr. Lisa, a breakup and divorce coach, as she delves into the anxiety and discomfort around being alone post-breakup or divorce. She addresses the common mistakes of dating too soon, not vetting potential partners, and staying in unfulfilling relationships to avoid loneliness. Dr. Lisa emphasizes the importance of connecting with oneself, disc…
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Navigating Divorce at Work: Balancing Career and Life's Biggest Transition
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0:40In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T., Dr. Lisa Summerour, your accredited breakup and divorce coach, explores the often-overlooked impact of divorce on your career. From lost productivity to emotional challenges, she shares practical strategies for navigating divorce at work without letting it define your career. Learn how to communicate effectivel…
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Struggling to Sleep After Divorce? Here’s What You Need to Know
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38:25In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa explores the vital connection between sleep and stress, particularly for those navigating post-divorce life. Drawing from personal experiences and research, she highlights the importance of a good night's sleep, detailing how inadequate rest makes stress and emotional turmoil worse. Learn about REM sl…
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Leverage Your Skills After Your Divorce | The Joy! A.A.C.T.™
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49:49Your divorce or breakup doesn’t define you—but how you rebuild does. In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™ Podcast, Dr. Lisa Summerour, a Master Practitioner breakup and divorce coach, shares powerful insights on how to recognize and leverage your skills to regain your financial, emotional, and professional independence. Whether you’re navigating t…
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Parenting Through Change: Supporting Kids After Divorce
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49:53Parenting through divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be that way with everything. In this episode of The Joy! A.A.C.T.™, Dr. Lisa Summerour, an Accredited Breakup and Divorce Coach, shares personal stories, practical advice, and essential tools to guide you through supporting your child as you navigate the changes t…
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Breakup Blues: Dealing with Conflicting Emotions
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25:23Welcome to The Joy! A.A.C.T., where we explore the transformative power of Accountability, Alignment, Communication, and Trust. In today’s episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour discusses the potential pitfalls of excessive positivity and the importance of staying true to your emotions during challenging times. Through personal anecdotes and practical tips, d…
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Stuck Watching the Fires? Empower Yourself Instead
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40:33In this episode Dr. Lisa Summerour discusses fire preparedness with actionable steps you can take today. From documenting your valuables to checking your home for fire hazards, learn how to protect what matters most. Tune in for practical advice and reflections on taking responsibility in uncertain times. You can't prevent certain things but there …
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Simplify Your New Year: People, Spaces, and Places That Empower You
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32:35In this New Year's episode, Dr. Lisa guides you through a transformative exercise to identify the people, spaces, and places that enhance your life—and those that don’t. With actionable tips and heartfelt examples, you’ll gain the tools to simplify, assess, and take charge of your journey toward joy and fulfillment. Start your year with intention a…
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The Art of Receiving: Finding Strength in Vulnerability After Divorce
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29:54In this episode of The Joy A.A.C.T., Dr. Lisa Summerour speaks directly to those navigating a difficult breakup or divorce. If you've always been the "strong one," receiving help might feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable. But what if receiving isn't a sign of weakness, but a gateway to deeper strength and connection? Listen as Dr. Lisa unpacks: Why it…
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How Honoring Your Values Shapes Relationships, Work, and Life
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36:10🎙️ Episode Title: Honoring Your Values: Navigate Life with Integrity How do your values shape the decisions you make in your personal and professional life? In this episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour dives into the challenges and rewards of honoring your values. From communication breakdowns in relationships to standing up for integrity in the workplace, …
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Emotional Brining™: A Recipe for Healing After Difficult Relationships
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29:17In this episode, I'm introducing a new therapeutic concept I've developed called emotional brining™. Just as brining a duck draws out impurities while infusing flavor, emotional brining™ is about taking intentional time after a difficult relationship to detox from dysfunction while rediscovering your authentic self. From the inspiration that struck…
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Discover how to rebuild trust - especially self-trust - after divorce in this powerful final episode of our transformation series. Learn the Three Pillars of Self-Trust, explore post-traumatic growth, and master practical techniques for trusting your intuition. This episode provides actionable tools for your healing journey. Featured highlights: - …
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A.A.C.T. Three: Mastering Your Dialog Game
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38:30Master your dialogue game with Episode 3 of The Joy A.A.C.T.! Dr. Lisa shares powerful communication techniques through the lens of theater, helping you become the star of your own story. Learn how to express yourself assertively, listen actively, and deliver clear messages that transform your relationships. Perfect for anyone looking to improve th…
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In this powerful episode, Dr. Lisa Summerour guides you through the concept of Alignment after divorce. Discover how to reconnect with your core values, set meaningful objectives, and chart a new course for your life. Through practical exercises, visualization techniques, and real-world examples, you'll learn how to: Identify and embrace your evolv…
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A.A.C.T. One: Your Superpower Starts Here
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39:43In this origin story of our A.A.C.T. series, Dr. Lisa reveals how Accountability isn't just another self-help tool - it's your hidden superpower waiting to be unleashed. Discover how taking ownership of your 1% transforms you from feeling powerless to becoming the hero of your own story. Your Hero's Journey Includes The Origin Story: Why accountabi…
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The Joy A.A.C.T.: It's Showtime! New Name, Same Joy, Bigger Mission
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50:30The curtain rises on an exciting new chapter! Dr. Lisa returns with a show-stopping transformation as "Divorce is Not a Destination" evolves into "The Joy A.A.C.T." In this premiere episode, discover why this isn't just a rebranding – it's a powerful expansion that puts JOY center stage. Get ready to learn about the game-changing A.A.C.T. framework…
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When Something Dead is Alive In Your Head
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1:05:35Does your past haunt you? Do you feel like things are chasing you? You can’t seem to get away from past mistakes. Old decisions. Poor choices. A bad job experience or an emotionally draining relationship. Have you considered the possibility that it’s YOU not knowing how to let go of the past? Something dead may live in your head because you keep br…
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When You're Considering Going Back to Your Ex
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1:05:28The internet has made finding an ex and rekindling an old flame easier than ever. In this episode, I share some things to consider if you’re considering going back to your ex. I’m breakup and divorce coach, Dr. Lisa Summerour; I have discussions designed to empower you to live your life your way. I’m here to see you thrive on your journey to joy be…
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How to Pick Up the Pieces After Your Divorce
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1:00:36No one gets married with the expectation of dealing with divorce. Divorce ranks as one of the most stressful situations anyone can go through, right behind the death of a spouse. It’s no surprise that dealing with a divorce is no small matter. It requires patience and stamina, and there are no shortcuts. But that doesn’t mean that getting over a di…
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Recently, I enjoyed a lovely time at a winery, having mini-tacos, a margarita, overlooking a vineyard, and listening to salsa music. It was my date night with me. One of the comments read, “I pray to God, I never get to a state in life where I’m taking myself on dates. “ So, in this episode, whether you’re single or partnered up, I share the benefi…
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Dissecting Jonah Hill and Sarah Brady's Text Messages - Where Are the Boundaries?
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1:02:51From PageSix and the Washington Post to NBC news, people continue to write, read, and discuss the text messages shared between surfer Sarah Brady and her ex, actor Jonah Hill. In this episode, I’m dissecting the text messages and looking at boundaries. What are boundaries? Who do we set them for? What do they look like, and what to do when your bou…
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Ways to Recover from Narcissistic Abuse
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1:02:23Part 4 of 4 Part Series Whether you are dealing with someone diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder or someone with a boatload of narcissistic personality traits, recovering from that relationship can be difficult. It could take months or years to regain your confidence and self-esteem and grow to a place where you learn to trust your abi…
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Who Narcissists Target: Are You a Magnet?
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45:13Part 3 of 4 Part Series on Narcissism S3/Ep 5 Part 3 of 4 Part Series on Narcissism S3 / Ep 5 If you thought narcissists only target people who are weak and vulnerable because they would be easier to manipulate . . . you might be surprised to learn – that’s not true. Narcissists may be more likely to look for confident, successful, attractive, and …
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Part 2 of 4 Part Series on Narcissism/ Season 3 - Ep 4 As we discussed last week, when people talk about narcissism, they are often referring to the personality trait not the disorder. Within the personality disorder researchers and experts typically navigate around five types of narcissism. In this episode I share information about 5 narcissism ty…
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Narcissistic Personality Trait vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder
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57:38June 29, 2023, S3/Ep3 Series 1 of 4 Narcissism. Is it the latest buzzword in relationship woes? Not if you’re living with someone who has the disorder. In that case, it may feel like you’re living in a haunted house of mirrors. In this 4 Part series on Narcissism, we begin Part 1 discussing the difference between someone with narcissistic personali…
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5 Ways to Move on After Your Breakup
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1:05:46Whether it is a short-term casual relationship, a long-term serious relationship, or a marriage gone awry, the breakup might have been more challenging than you anticipated. You could even be going through a split right now. If so, this episode is full of tips to help you move on after your breakup. I’m Dr. Lisa Summerour. I’m here to help you desi…
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No Support from Your Partner? What to do.
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59:33There are many ways your significant other can demonstrate support. We’re kicking off season three, discussing what support might look like and what you can do when you’re not getting it. Whether you’re going through a breakup or trying to avoid one - I’m Dr. Lisa Summerour. I’m here to help you design strategies to live your life; your way here on…
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Fearful / Disorganized Attachment Part 4/4
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1:08:07We’ve made it to week 4 of my series on Attachment Styles. In this episode, I discussed the attachment theory, described as being a combination of both anxious and avoidant Attachment. It’s known as “Fearful” or “Disorganized” attachment theory. While it does represent the smallest segment of the population, it is often the most challenging attachm…
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Avoidant Attachment Style - #3 or 4 Part Series on Attachment Styles
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53:31This is week three of my four-week series on Attachment Styles and things get more interesting as we review what it’s like to be with someone who is extremely independent and self-directed. That kinda sounds good, right? You decide. A person with Avoidant Attachment Style tendencies is also often uncomfortable with intimacy. They are afraid of comm…
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Anxious Attachment Style #2 of 4 Part Series on Attachment Styles
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1:02:21Anxious attachment types will often seem nervous or stressed about their relationship. If you’ve ever been with someone who needs constant reassurance and a lot of affection, you might have been dealing with someone with anxious attachment style. Or, if you have a tendency to end up in unhealthy even abusive relationships, and you struggle with tru…
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Secure Attachment Style - 4 Part Series on Attachment Styles
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1:10:29Psychologists use Attachment Theory to describe the emotional attachment between humans. For the next four weeks, I will be looking at attachment styles in detail. In this episode, we discuss the Secure Attachment Style. I’m breakup divorce & beyond coach Dr. Lisa Summerour and I’m here to remind you that this is your life. Your journey. Divorce is…
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Back to Single? 10 tips on how to move forward gracefully
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1:02:52The breakup or divorce has happened and you’re back to being single. Remember, this is where you started so it’s not a completely foreign state. In this episode I share why taking some time out for yourself might make more sense than jumping into new relationship. take advantage of this alone time to learn from your past and leverage it for persona…
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It’s been reported that the divorce of Jeff and McKenzie Bezos cost $38 Billion. Online sites list fees for an uncontested divorce as low as $159, but the average cost of a divorce in the United States is approximately $17,500. If you are on the brink of a divorce, now is a good time to get your financial house in order. In this episode, I share ho…
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It’s not uncommon for people to take two years to move through the grieving process after a divorce. Even individuals who are happy about getting divorced, have an adjustment period that could be, at best, unpredictable emotionally. What if you could use grace to overcome the divorce process? What if you could learn to embrace where you are in your…
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I don’t know of anyone who, as a child, fantasized about what they would wear to their divorce. I feel safe in saying, no one enters into a marriage thinking it will end in divorce. Still, divorce is a reality that many couples face. And the divorce rate is getting higher… Not just in the United States. In this episode, I’ll share the countries wit…
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Perhaps you’ve spent years creating the family you dreamed about; maybe your marriage was still in the honeymoon phase, either way it's now falling apart. The hurt is deep and your friends may not understand the pain you're going through. With divorce comes a feeling of grief, despair, and fear about your future. Your marriage may be over, but your…
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There is value in reviewing the previous year, the end of a marriage, relationship, or job when you do it with clarity, honesty, and acceptance. Get clear about what happened. Be honest about your role in what happened. Accept that it is the past, and while you cannot change the past, there are two things you can do: Learn from it and celebrate it!…
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The Power and Blessing of Personal Boundaries
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43:28Personal boundaries are important for several reasons. If you’ve been through a divorce, you may realize that your ability to set personal boundaries could use some work. Boundaries serve as barriers to protect your self-esteem. They are also tools for establishing limits with others and communicating that you won’t tolerate certain behaviors. Thos…
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How You Can Re-Claim Your Life by Living Consciously
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33:55Do you sometimes feel like you’re just going through the motions? You get up, go to work, come home, have dinner, watch television, and go to bed. The next day, the routine starts all over again. I this episode of Divorce is Not a Destination; I share how living consciously is about regaining control over your life. Instead of doing things on autom…
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Bring Peace Into Your Life by Learning to Let Go Of Regret Ep11/S2
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33:29If you’ve gone through or are going through a divorce, feeling sorry, sad, or disappointed over something you did or didn’t do, could leave you experiencing regret. Regret can weigh you down and become such a focus in your life that you’re unable to identify the many accomplishments you’ve achieved. If it were up to us, we’d all live regret-free li…
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How Delayed Gratification Can Make You Happier and More Successful
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31:01Going through a difficult time like divorce can leave you feeling like you DESERVE immediate gratification. In this episode, I urge you to RESIST the temptation Learning to delay gratification can make you happier and more successful professionally and personally . Self-discipline can yield great results! Throughout your life, you're likely to spen…
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Creating New Holiday Traditions After Divorce
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44:27Divorce brings major changes into your family life. One of those changes is how you choose to celebrate the holidays. Most families hold onto some of their old traditions while introducing some new ones. What’s most important, is for you to be intentional about how you celebrate the holidays. If you're looking to create a smooth transition to new h…
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4 Fulfilling Activities Designed to Expand Your Horizons
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41:26Have you ever felt like you’ve been missing something that could make your life more fulfilling? Perhaps you're yearning to expand your horizons and reach for something beyond the scope of what you know today. In this episode of Divorce is Not a Destination™ Dr Lisa shares four activities that can make a marked difference in helping you find a sens…
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Don’t Let Your Divorce Ruin Your Holidays
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36:13Are you about to have your first holiday after being divorced? If so, it’s natural to feel sad and even lonely. However, wouldn’t you like to overcome these feelings and have a special holiday that warms your heart? in this episode, I share tips to help you create beautiful new memories that can make your holiday joyful. Changing your focus will gi…
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9 Secrets to Living Your Life More Meaningfully
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1:00:21Episode #6 |S2 – 9 Secrets to Living Your Life More Meaningfully November 10th The hustle and bustle of daily life can sweep us away from what really means the most to us. It’s up to each of us to figure out how to live a personally fulfilling life. Although much of your life is shared with others, you can still carve out your own space for a rich,…
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