Today we’d like to introduce you to Devoney Kodad.
Devoney, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I went to grad school and got my Master of Social Work. I originally wanted to study community development but ended up taking the clinical track, which was amazing. I worked in schools and various non-profits in the community. I’ve always been wildly passionate about holistic wellness, but I really started digging in and building my skills in this area after grad school.
When I got out of grad school, I saw so many burnt out and exhausted people in the mental health and service-oriented fields! It was alarming. There were these incredible people holding space for trauma, healing, and growth, and feeling drained, exhausted, and burnt out. I started wondering how much more impactful the work of clinicians could be if we were well-rested, nourished, and our cups were full. As I started to explore the coaching world, I realized how much that translated into the entrepreneurial world.
We have a vision and a mission and almost get tunnel vision, allowing ourselves to neglect everything else and go full speed ahead until we accomplish the “goal” we have. I started my coaching business and have been focusing my efforts on empowering entrepreneurs to slow down and to enjoy their journey. We live in such a high stress, fast-paced culture and my mission is to empower entrepreneurs to slow down and start living a radically authentic and aligned lifestyle. As this change happens, they are able to run a kickass business AND enjoy their lives.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting my own business has been a roller coaster like no other. It brings up insecurities and doubts that you didn’t even realize existed! Showing up for my first Facebook Live, telling people I started a business, hosting my first workshop, and starting my podcast ALL brought up insecurities I thought I had surpassed. They all required me to get super real and honest with myself about the insecurities I had, to move forward anyway, and to risk looking like an idiot and falling on my face. I’ve made lots of mistakes, I’ve had flops, and every time insecurity is put to bed because I didn’t let it run the show.
I’ve also struggled with falling into the burnout trap that I’m on a mission to work against! Ironic, right?! Regularly check in with yourself and ask yourself how you’re doing. What is working, what’s not working, and make the necessary adjustments. No success is worth you completely burning yourself out and neglecting yourself. Create a plan, check-in regularly and adjust as needed. Taking care of yourself is an essential to a sustainable business and legacy. We so often forget this CRUCIAL piece, so remember that.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I use Christian principles as well as my education in grad school to help entrepreneurs slow down and create an incredibly authentic lifestyle. My clients first learn to slow down by creating and implementing really nourishing lifestyle practices and routines including mindfulness, self-compassion, and gratitude practices.
Then they get really freaking clear on who they’re created to be- the most authentic version of themselves and start taking aligned action to embody her. We have had so many messages tell us to tone down, that our opinion isn’t valuable, that we’re not qualified, that we need to water ourselves down to be more palatable.
And I’m calling a huge bologna sandwich. You’re a freaking incredible masterpiece. I help my clients reconnect with the most authentic and real version of themselves who’s been dying to come out of hiding. She’s been waiting. She’s been imprisoned by what people have told us and it’s time for her to be liberated.
We focus on allowing her to be liberated one area at a time: mind, body, spirit, emotions, relationships, and business so that the change is really integrated. Imagine a culture where we are not exhausted and burnt out, but we’re sharing our gifts from a full and overflowing cup.
How much more productive and vibrant would we be?!
How much of a greater impact could you make if you were showing up as the bold, confident you every day in your business and in your life?!
That’s the culture that I want to live in, so here I am!
I work with entrepreneurs through my various individual coaching programs, my premium membership community, and in-person community events.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
As cliche as it sounds, be yourself and reach out! The right people will want to connect and create a community with you! Find a few people you can really trust (online biz besties) who you can check in with regularly, schedule online coffee dates or coordinate in-person meetups. Create connections and community and ENJOY the ride!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.devoneytaylor.com
- Email: devoney@devoneytaylor.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/devoney.taylor
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/thefreeandwell
- Other: www.facebook.com/groups/thefreeandwell
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