Let's get to know, Dawn Gatward, in this week's SOULACY Spotlight
Dawn is a Business Astrologer and Consciousness Coach, helping entrepreneurs unlock their magick so they can stand out and shine. Dawn is a SOULACY Resident Writer.
Let's jump right in...
Who/What are you watching or listening to right now? What has you interested in them/it?
I'm currently binging on the new season of Outlander. I was introduced to it at the beginning of the year and have been hooked ever since - I know everyone goes on about Jamie, but Claire wins it for me.
How to do you spend your free time?
I'm a bit obsessed when it comes to my work, so taking regular breaks from the laptop is something I'm working on. But I do like to pamper myself with long bubble baths (complete with face mask and candles) - I'll also indulge in Netflix or reading a fantasy book - my favourite authors are Anne Rice and Kate Mosse.
What was your first business and why did you start it?
My first business was way back in 2007 and feels like a lifetime ago. I've always wanted my own business since I was a little girl, and spent afternoons creating and pricing package offers for my parents shop. I set up a smoothie bar in the wettest summer of '07 (as a partnership with my ex) and have only recently sold my shares.
What book changed or greatly influenced your life and why?
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers - it's such a classic and should be on everyone's bookshelf, but this book massively changed the way I think. I realised that fear never truly goes away, and you just need to embrace leaving your comfy zone on a regular basis if you want to grow and expand. In fact, I'm pretty sure it was this book that started my love of shadow work.
What is your favourite quote? Why?
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't... you're right" - Henry Ford summed up the subconscious mind perfectly with this quote. Our lives are in our control, and we get to decide what to believe and what action to take. I have to remind myself of this from time-to-time though, because we're only human
What's the scariest thing you've ever done in your business?
As of this current moment, it's investing in my own growth and expansion. Whenever I sign up to a new program there's a voice in the back of my mind telling me it's a waste of money and it won't make any difference. But each and every time I learn something new, I expand into a shinier version of myself, and I up-level my business.
What has been the biggest mindset shift you've had since you started your business(es)?
Recognising my own worth has been huge, for sure! For so long I played it safe in business - scared to stand out, scared to show off my awesomeness, and scared to make any bold moves. It was only last year that the lightbulb actually went off and I fully took back my power. It's so freeing to believe in yourself and just go for it.
What excites you right now - outside of your business?
I'm getting fully lit up at the thought of spring. I can't stand being cold, so knowing that the warmer months are coming is making me extra happy - I'm definitely planning on a few adventures in the next six months - a trip to London and Glastonbury are just a couple I have lined up.
What is the legacy that you're creating?
I'd love everyone in the world to chase after their dreams. Imagine the magick that'd create, if people actually believed they could achieve their desires and took action on them.
Favourite time of year? Why?
Although I should say summer (because it's hot and sunny) I actually adore the autumn - cute boots, cardigans, makeup that doesn't sweat off, and Samhain.
Who/What's making you belly laugh right now?
I've been really into TikTok lately, and have watched so many hilarious videos - my favourite was a guy who tried to stop himself slipping on the ice, and ended up running on the spot for two minutes solid. I don't know how his friend managed to keep videoing without falling to the ground in laughter.
What big, wonderful, cannot-wait-until-it-happens goal are you working toward or dreaming of right now?
I'm working on a brand new signature program, which I can't wait to launch to the world. It's a combination of everything I've done in the past five years, and is probably the best thing I've created to date - eeekkk!
When overwhelm creeps in, what is your go-to solution to moving beyond it?
I stop. And I distract myself by doing something completely different - usually a walk or a bath or even just watching a film. Sometimes it's really hard (especially when there's deadlines to hit) but it has to be done, or things will just get heavier.
Best business advice you've ever received? Did you follow it when you first heard it? Tell us about it...
YOU ARE YOUR NICHE!!! For years I tried coming up with the perfect customer avatar, it used to stress me out having to name their children and list out the magazines they read (I mean, really?) But as soon as I heard this advice it felt sooooo good - I teach from the experiences I've had and most of my audience are a previous version of me, so using ME for my niche was a game changer. I've followed it since hearing it, and it's helped massively - from the offers I create, to the content I put out on social media.
What do you have going on in your business or coming up soon?
I've got an epic 5-day challenge coming up on 21st March. It's called 'Align + Shine' and it's aimed at all soul-led entrepreneurs who are feeling a bit disconnected from their business. I'll be helping them unleash their magick, so they stand out more and attract in more abundance. I'll also be bringing a lot of cosmic energy to the challenge, so it's going to be a bucket-load of fun. Find out more here so you can join in the fun.
What's the best way for people to spend more time with you and learn more about what you have going on?
Find me here. I'd love to connect.
Read all of Dawn's articles, The Cosmic Corner, inside each issue of SOULACY
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