MIKHAIL BARYSHNIKOV

A Life of Purpose, Passion, and Artistic Freedom

There are two monumental days in a person’s life: the day they are born and the day they discover why.

Mikhail Baryshnikov was one of the rare few who discovered his purpose early—bringing joy to others through the art of dance.

From a young age, Baryshnikov lived with passion and intention. He wasn’t just a technically gifted dancer; he possessed the emotional depth and inner strength to pursue his dreams—even when it meant making unimaginable sacrifices.

Choosing Purpose Over Comfort

Born in Riga, Latvia, to Russian parents, Baryshnikov began his career with the prestigious Kirov Ballet in the Soviet Union. But the rigid artistic constraints of the USSR soon became a cage. The Soviet dance world clung to outdated 19th-century traditions and excluded the work of Western choreographers—visionaries Baryshnikov longed to work with.

In 1974, at the height of his career, he made a life-altering decision: he defected to Canada. It wasn’t about politics. It was about creative freedom, personal growth, and the desire to evolve.

Turning Passion Into a Plan

Rather than let the trauma of defection define him, Baryshnikov used it as fuel. He sought new mentors, embraced new dance forms, and eventually joined the American Ballet Theatre. By 1980, he became its artistic director. His quest for growth led him to perform with George Balanchine at the New York City Ballet, expanding his craft even further.

Later, he co-founded the White Oak Dance Project with Mark Morris and established the Baryshnikov Arts Center (BAC), a space where artists of all disciplines could collaborate, innovate, and thrive.

A Lifetime of Growth and Giving

Baryshnikov continues to grow as an artist and humanitarian. Through his charity, True Russia, he supports Ukrainian refugees and Russian dissidents. He remains a vocal advocate for freedom, integrity, and artistic courage.

At over 70 years old, he still performs, teaches, and experiments. He believes in the power of work as a spiritual practice and continues to create meaning through movement.

Legacy of a Life Well Lived

Mikhail Baryshnikov teaches us that personal development is more than self-improvement. It’s the pursuit of purpose, the courage to evolve, and the determination to live intentionally. His story is a reminder that talent opens the door—but vision, grit, and purpose carry you across the threshold.

CELEBRATING NATIONAL INTUITION DAY: HONOR YOUR INNER VOICE

Have you ever had a hunch or a nudge you couldn’t quite explain—but just knew was right (or wrong)?

Chances are, you have. The question is, how often do you follow it?

A few weeks ago, I received an email from my pastor asking for help: a donation to surprise his staff with a gift. Without hesitation, I said yes. I was honored to be asked. But as I read further, something felt off. Why gift cards? Why the Apple Store?

My gut whispered: This doesn’t feel right.

I emailed back, asking if he had a specific preference for the gift cards. His response? He wanted five $100 Apple Store gift cards. That’s when my alarm bells rang. Most of the staff are elderly and not tech-savvy—they barely use smartphones, let alone shop at the Apple Store.

I trusted that inner nudge and called my pastor directly.

You guessed it—it was a scam.

That small inner voice saved me from being deceived. That’s the power of intuition. It’s more than a feeling—it’s our internal compass, pointing us toward truth, protection, growth, and alignment with our highest good.

Why Celebrate Intuition?

National Intuition Day—May 10—is a call to reconnect with the powerful guide within you. Intuition strengthens your creativity, self-awareness, decision-making, and confidence. It’s a gift we’re all born with—but like any muscle, it gets stronger the more we use it.

Throughout history, intuition has changed the course of lives and even nations. Winston Churchill trusted his instincts during WWII and narrowly avoided disaster during an air raid. Julius Caesar’s wife, Calpurnia, had a premonition about his assassination. Intuition isn’t woo-woo—it’s wisdom.

How Will You Celebrate?

This National Intuition Day, I’m going inward. I’ll reflect, journal, meditate—and ask my intuition how to bring more value to others through my work. Especially through my memoir, The Invisible Child, which explores how I used my inner voice to raise strong, flourishing young women after their childhoods were interrupted when they became caregivers far too young.

So, what about you?

What question will you ask to strengthen your intuition muscle? What’s one area of your life where you’ll choose to trust your gut over doubt?

Let this day be a reminder: You already have what you need to thrive. Your inner voice is waiting to lead you.

Call to Action:

Celebrate National Intuition Day by reconnecting with your inner wisdom.
Want to explore how intuition shaped my life and parenting journey? Grab a copy of The Invisible Child. Order a copy today Click here:

https://bit.ly/TheInvisibleChildBook

Ready to strengthen your intuition and need support? Email me at writerworks@gmail.com—I’d love to walk with you on that path.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

This Mother’s Day, Give the Gift of Story and Strength

Mother’s Day is more than flowers and cards — it’s about honoring the women who nurture us, encourage us, and shape our lives.

This year, consider giving a gift that speaks to the heart.

The Invisible Child, my memoir, is a tribute to resilience, caregiving, and the quiet strength of women who refuse to give up — even when life gets hard.

It’s a story for:
Mothers and grandmothers

Caregivers and nurturers
Women who have walked through challenges and still found hope

Whether you are celebrating your mother, a friend, a sister, or yourself — The Invisible Child offers inspiration, healing, and a reminder that our stories matter.

Order a copy today and give a gift that lasts far beyond Mother’s Day. Click here:

https://bit.ly/TheInvisibleChildBook

Happy Mother’s Day to every woman who gives love, care, and courage — in quiet and powerful ways.

Honoring the Angels Among Us: Celebrate National Nurses’ Day with Me

Photo by Marek Studzinski on Unsplash

Join Me on May 6 to Celebrate National Nurses’ Day

On May 6, we pause to honor the heart, hands, and hope of nurses everywhere. Today, I spotlight one phenomenal nurse whose compassion left an indelible mark on my life.

Nearly twenty years ago, I had the privilege of being cared for by a young intern, now a Registered Nurse, whose service went far beyond routine care. From taking vitals and managing medications to preparing meals and offering gentle custodial care, she served selflessly and skillfully. But what set her apart was her deep understanding of something far more powerful: the dignity and wholeness of every person, especially those living with disabilities.

She recognized that health is not just about treatment—it’s about living fully. She encouraged fresh air, faith, education, meeting new people, and staying curious about the world. Her work reminded me daily that healing happens in body, mind, and spirit.

As we approach May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday—the foundation of modern nursing—I invite you to reflect on the nurses who’ve touched your life. Nurses are more than caregivers. They are beacons of light and earthly angels, restoring, supporting, and strengthening us in our most vulnerable moments.

This week, celebrate a nurse. Say thank you. Write a note. Share a story. Give them the recognition they so richly deserve.

Happy National Nurses Week! Let’s honor those who lift us.

Nurses are our beacons of light. Let’s celebrate them together.

I share more about my journey with nurses in The Invisible Child. You can read it here: Click to order your copy:

https://bit.ly/TheInvisibleChildBook

The Art of Connection

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Beyond the Obstacle

Growth Unlocked

Ditch Resolutions—Set Goals for Success in 2025!

Where Are You With Your 2025 Goals?

Are you thriving and making progress, or have your ambitions quietly faded into the 80% of resolutions abandoned by February? If your goals feel out of reach, don’t worry—there’s still time to turn things around!

March marks the final month of the first quarter, making it the perfect moment to reassess, realign, and reignite your goals. Instead of feeling stuck in another cycle of forgotten resolutions, let’s make 2025 different. “It’s time to set goals, not resolutions!”

Why Resolutions Fail (And Goals Succeed)

We’ve kicked off January for years with big dreams—better health, financial freedom, and new adventures. However, studies show that most resolutions fail because they’re too vague, lack structure, and lack accountability.

That’s why “goals work better than resolutions.” Goals are specific, measurable, and backed by a plan. Unlike fleeting resolutions, goals provide a clear roadmap, turning aspirations into achievable results.

How to Turn Resolutions Into Real Goals

Want to make real progress? Follow these 4 steps:

Be Specific – Instead of saying, “I want to write a book,” set a goal like: I am a published writer on July 14, 2025, by writing 20 pages a month.*

Create a Plan – Break it down. What daily and weekly actions will help you reach your goal? A step-by-step approach turns dreams into reality.

Track Your Progress – Use a journal, planner, or app to monitor your journey. Seeing results—even small ones—keeps you motivated.

Find Support & Accountability – Having a coach can keep you on track and help you navigate obstacles.

Why Goals Matter

Setting goals isn’t just about achievement—it’s about growth, fulfillment, and happiness. Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl noted that a sense of purpose fuels confidence and resilience. When you set and pursue meaningful goals, you take charge of your life, shaping your future with intention.

Your 2025 Challenge: Take Action!

Don’t let another year pass with unfulfilled resolutions. “Reframe your 2025 goals today!” Let’s work together to create a plan that drives your vision to success.

Schedule a complimentary coaching session with me to map your path to victory! Click here: https://coachdiane.blog/sign-up-for-coaching to take the first step.

Let’s make 2025 your most successful year yet!

**#GoalAchieving #SuccessIn2025 #DriveYourVisionsToDestinations**

DR. KIZZMEKIA CORBETT: A Trailblazer In Vaccine Development

Dr. Kizzmekia S. Corbett, an accomplished immunologist, has etched her name as the first Black woman to lead a team in developing a vaccine. Her pivotal role in creating the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine not only contributed to combating a global pandemic but also revolutionized the future of vaccine development.

“If you can unwind and be true to who you are, it helps to reckon with things. My team is responding to the world’s most devastating global pandemic in the last hundred years. And so, there’s something to be said about knowing who you are.” – Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett

Dr. Corbett’s groundbreaking work in virology was essential to the rapid development of one of the first COVID-19 vaccines authorized for emergency use. Central to her research was a deep understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, particularly its spike protein—critical for the virus to enter human cells. This knowledge allowed Dr. Corbett and her team to leverage innovative mRNA technology to create the vaccine.

Her blend of scientific expertise and strong leadership played a crucial role in achieving this monumental accomplishment in record time. Dr. Corbett was directly responsible for designing the spike protein, a key element that triggered the immune response necessary to fight the virus.

A Lifelong Passion for Science

Dr. Corbett’s journey into science began long before the pandemic. As a young girl, her fourth-grade teacher, Myrtis Bradsher, recognized Dr. Corbett’s love for science and encouraged her to pursue advanced courses. In a 2020 interview with The Washington Post, Bradsher fondly recalled, “I always thought she was going to do something one day. She dotted i’s and crossed t’s. The best in my 30 years of teaching.” This early encouragement, along with the support of her parents and community, helped nurture Dr. Corbett’s intellectual curiosity and set her on a path to success.

Dr. Corbett attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), earning a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. She later earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she developed a passion for virology—a passion that would eventually shape her contributions to global health.

The Pandemic and a Groundbreaking Vaccine

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, Dr. Corbett and her team at the National Institute of Health were already well-versed in studying coronaviruses. They possessed critical insights into the virus’s spike protein, which enabled them to develop a vaccine in record time. By partnering with Moderna and utilizing mRNA technology, Dr. Corbett and her team created a vaccine in just a few months—a process that usually takes several years.

Dr. Corbett’s leadership was instrumental in this achievement. As one of the key figures in the development of the vaccine, she earned widespread recognition for her contributions, particularly as a Black woman in a field traditionally dominated by white men. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Recognizing Her Legacy

Beyond her technical expertise, Dr. Corbett’s unwavering commitment to advancing global health has earned her numerous accolades. In 2022, she was awarded the prestigious J. William Fulbright Prize for International Understanding, alongside Dr. Anthony Fauci, for their collective work on the COVID-19 vaccine.

Today, Dr. Corbett continues to contribute to science as a faculty member at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where she will continue her groundbreaking research and inspire the next generation of scientists. As she puts it, “My role as a scientist is really about my passion and purpose for the world and for giving back to the world.”

Empowering the Future of Science

Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett’s extraordinary journey is an inspiring reminder that trailblazers come in many forms. Through passion, perseverance, and dedication, she has not only changed the course of history but also left a lasting impact on the future of science and public health.

Her work demonstrates the critical importance of diversity and representation in driving innovation. As we celebrate her achievements, let’s continue to uplift and support women of color in STEM fields, ensuring that they too have the opportunity to shape the future of global health.

Call to Action

Let’s celebrate and support the incredible work of trailblazers like Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Share her story, encourage young women of color to pursue careers in STEM, and help foster diversity in science. Together, we can create a future where innovation thrives for everyone.

“Friendship: the Heart Of Valentine’s Day”

Friendship is one of life’s most beautiful and invaluable aspects, offering support, joy, and shared moments of growth. This Valentine’s Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate the incredible bonds we form with our friends—those special people who bring warmth, laughter, and meaning into our lives. While friendships may face challenges, the connection and understanding we share with others can be a source of strength and joy.

Photo by Gutjahr Aleksandr on Pexels.com

The Value of Friendship:

Good friendships do more than just provide companionship—they are a source of health, happiness, and even longevity. According to research from Michigan State University, the bonds we form with friends predict our overall happiness and well-being even more than our family relationships. This is likely because we can choose friends who support and uplift us, creating an environment where we can thrive.

Friends Make Us Feel Good: Spending time with friends is a key part of self-care. In fact, one of the best ways to support mental health is by expanding our social circles and nurturing the friendships that make us feel loved and seen. The joy of sharing laughter, fun, and meaningful moments with those we care about can truly brighten our days and boost our mood.

Friends Teach Us About Ourselves: Friendships have a unique ability to reflect who we are and who we want to become. Through meaningful conversations, we learn more about ourselves—our values, dreams, and the behaviors that help us grow. Friends inspire us to adopt healthy habits, pursue our goals, and reflect on the people we strive to be.

Whether they encourage us to practice self-care, follow our passions, or take on new challenges, friends play an important role in our self-development. And as we witness our friends’ growth, we often find ourselves motivated to grow right along with them.

Cherishing the Moments: My friend Mary and I had always shared a special bond, always supporting one another’s goals. I remember one day when I told her I was pursuing a career in freelance writing. I was filled with excitement and wanted to share this new chapter in my life with her. As we talked over lunch, I noticed how our conversation naturally turned to her goals and excitement about her own journey. There was a balance in our friendship where we both celebrated each other’s dreams.

In moments like these, we learn how to give, share, and grow with each other. Friendship is not about being perfect; it’s about embracing the ups and downs together, offering support, and creating lasting memories that help us both flourish.

The Gift of Letting Go: While some friendships last a lifetime, others may naturally evolve or come to an end. Sometimes, we find ourselves in situations where a friendship doesn’t align with our values or where we feel it no longer brings us the support we need. That’s okay. Letting go can be a gift to both ourselves and the other person, allowing us to focus on cultivating more balanced and fulfilling relationships.

After an unexpected change in my friendship with Mary, I learned that it’s okay to step away and honor what is best for my well-being. And as hard as it was, I chose forgiveness and peace. Sometimes, the most loving thing we can do is to let go, trusting that life will bring new connections and opportunities for growth.

Embracing the Journey of Friendship:

Whether your friendships are old or new, there are countless ways to nurture and celebrate them. This Valentine’s Day, why not take a moment to reach out to a friend and let them know how much you appreciate their presence in your life? Perhaps it’s a text, a thoughtful note, or a simple call to say “Thank you for being my friend.” Let’s cherish the relationships that make life richer and more colorful.

Tips for Cultivating Healthy Friendships:

Self-Awareness and Communication: Understand your emotions and communicate openly with your friends. By staying true to yourself, you encourage deeper and more meaningful connections.
Forgiveness and Acceptance: Embrace imperfections in yourself and others. Learning from misunderstandings and letting go of grudges opens the door to stronger, more supportive friendships.

On this Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate not only romantic love but the beauty of friendship—the connections that lift us, help us grow and make life brighter. Here’s to the friends who make our hearts full!

This Valentine’s Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the friendships that bring joy, growth, and meaning into our lives. Who are the friends who have made a difference in your journey? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below—let’s celebrate the power of friendship together!

We’d love to hear how your friends have made your life brighter!