Your value is an accrual of experiences! Embrace the good, the bad, the ugly and the downright complicated to awaken your joy!

234: Designing Alliances for Deeper Connections

by Mary Tess Rooney | Mar 20, 2025 | Podcast

You know that feeling when a conversation just flows effortlessly, when both people feel seen, heard, and understood? That’s no accident. It’s something we can actually design in our relationships.

I first learned about this concept during my coaching certification, where we practiced something called designing an alliance. It’s a simple but powerful way to set clear expectations upfront so both people walk away feeling valued and supported. And recently, I realized just how much this applies to all areas of life, whether it’s friendships, family, or even professional connections.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing how you can use this approach to create more meaningful interactions in your life. Plus, I’ll tell you about a dear friend of mine who had this down to an art, so much so that our time together was always intentional and fulfilling.

So let’s take a Wise Walk together and explore how designing an alliance can help you connect more deeply with the people who matter most.

What are the opportunities in your life where you can design an alliance with your family, friends, or co-workers to ensure quality time and mutual appreciation of each other’s needs?
Are you setting the stage to communicate what you need in return, and are you doing that in a way that enhances your relationships?
What are the ways you’re bringing this concept into your life to create meaningful conversations and exchanges with those around you?
Are there relationships in your life where you naturally design an alliance or upfront contract expectations, and do you do this unconsciously?
Can you take a moment to appreciate and express gratitude for those relationships where you already hold space for each other to grow and feel understood?
In other relationships—whether work or personal—are there opportunities for you to create deeper understanding and communicate more proactively?
How can you honor the fact that we are all constantly evolving, and how can you adjust your communication and agreements to reflect changing needs?
What are the opportunities in your life to experiment with designing an alliance or an upfront contract, and how might this approach change your interactions?

I’d love to hear what resonated with you in today’s episode. Feel free to reach out, share your thoughts, and teach me something new—because I’m always curious. And be sure to join me next Thursday for another Wise Walk.

In this episode:

[04:06] How my friend JT and I would appreciate maximizing our time together by having an upfront contract when we spent time together.

[05:18] We designed an alliance with an upfront contract that allowed our relationship to grow.

[06:09] I have another friend who upfront contracts her priorities of sleep, eating well, and getting exercise.

[07:22] Think about whether you have relationships where there are opportunities to create this understanding and communicate proactively about what you both expect.

Memorable Quotes:

“Holding space for someone is about ensuring you’re on the same page, appreciating the roles you’re stepping into, and creating an environment where both people feel heard and understood.” – Mary Tess
“When we communicate our needs openly, we create deeper connections and allow our relationships to evolve in a way that serves both people.” – Mary Tess
“When we design an alliance, we create space for understanding, respect, and meaningful connection.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

233: Discovering a Beginner’s Mindset

by Mary Tess Rooney | Mar 13, 2025 | Podcast

I recently went shopping for hiking boots at REI, and even though I’ve hiked plenty in my lifetime, I approached it as if I were a total beginner. I have super narrow feet, so finding the right fit is key, but what really surprised me was how much I learned just by getting curious.

The store associate introduced me to a new way to tie my boots called a surgeon’s knot, and it completely changed how my shoes fit and feel. What I love about this experience is how it reminded me that even when we think we know something inside and out, there is always room to learn. So for today’s Wise Walk, let’s slow down, check our reality, and ask ourselves these questions.

- Where in your life are you advanced or an expert in something, but in this moment, you wonder if you could learn something new?
- I wonder if there’s something that could enhance my experience or if there’s new equipment that might support me in a different way.
- How do I go about learning or confirming that what I already know to be true is still the best practice standard?
- As you look at your activities, passions, and experiences where you’ve already gained expertise, is there an opportunity to ask more questions?
- Is there an opportunity to hire a coach, trainer, or tutor to teach you what they know and help you see it from completely fresh eyes?
- Is there something you are active in that you’ve been doing for so long that you’ve forgotten that sense of fear?
- Is there an opportunity for you to appreciate that fear in a different way or take on a new challenge to get back into a beginner mindset?
- Where in your life can you embrace a beginner mindset, see what surfaces, discover where you grow, and explore what blossoms by stepping into new challenges or perspectives?

I invite you to get curious in your own life and explore where you can step into a beginner mindset. See what new opportunities unfold and what other aspects of you blossom as a result.

Thank you for listening and for joining me on this Wise Walk. I look forward to our next conversation next Thursday, so be sure to tune in. Until then, prioritize fun and keep embracing the journey.

In this episode:

[02:05] I love that, the gentleman helping me suggested a surgeon’s knot. I’m learning and now I can apply it to other shoes.

[03:55] The knot helps eliminate the give when hiking.

[04:21] I love the interaction. I learned a new trick and I also got curious about where else in my life I can start asking questions.

[06:05] When I was a ski instructor I was resistant to learn how to snowboard. When I finally relented and learned how to snowboard I also became a better ski instructor.

[07:40] Snowboarding helped me learn to relate to my students’ fear.

[09:00] I would like to get curious about and jump into the beginner’s mindset and learn pickleball. I would also like to explore golf.

Memorable Quotes:

“Even when we think we know something inside and out, there’s always room to learn.” – Mary Tess
“By staying curious and embracing new challenges, you can grow in unexpected ways.” – Mary Tess
“Get curious in your own life. See where you can step into this beginner mindset and discover what other aspects of you blossom as a result.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

232: Reunions & Rekindling Relationships

by Mary Tess Rooney | Mar 6, 2025 | Podcast

I’m headed to the United Kingdom, specifically Wales, to watch a Wrexham football match. Wrexham is in the European Football League, which we Americans call soccer, and it’s been incredibly exciting.

I don’t know if you’ve seen the Netflix documentary by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, but they bought this team, and it’s been amazing to watch them evolve and earn promotions. They’ve been doing really well, and it’s a blast to cheer them on.

I wouldn’t have discovered Wrexham or its strong sense of community if not for my good friends, Jenn and Cass. They live on the West Coast, and we’ve known each other for over 28 years. I haven’t seen them in person since before COVID, which is more than five years ago.

What I love about this Wrexham excitement is how it has reconnected us in a meaningful way. We’ve always been friends and supported each other, but this shared interest reignited and deepened our bond.

So for today’s Wise Walk, let’s slow down, check our reality, and ask ourselves these questions.

- What relationship in your life do you want to rekindle, reconnect, or reinvigorate?
- What shared interests might you bring in to energize it?
- How can you approach it differently and find new common ground?
- Could setting aside time for consistent reunions, virtual or in person, help?
- How can you reinvigorate meaningful relationships that have faded due to time, distance, or busyness?
- What steps can you take to refocus them in your life?
- Is there someone in your life that you would love to share one of your passions with?
- Do you think of a person often, still talk on the phone, and stay connected, but feel that life has evolved?
- What new interest could you find to bond over and elevate your conversations?
- How can you get energized and find reasons to show up and do things together, either in person or virtually?
- How can you grow together and show up for each other in this rekindled connection?
- How can you support each other as you reestablish and strengthen your friendship?
- What steps can you take to ensure your rekindled connection keeps getting better over time?
- Is there a relationship in your life that maintains deep connections across time, distance, and space?
- Have you expressed to that person how important your connection is to you?
- Have you let them know you appreciate being in this together and look forward to evolving together?
- Are you open to finding new shared interests to strengthen your bond?
- Do you make an effort to learn about what’s happening in their life beyond your shared interests?
- How can you show up and pay more attention to deepen your connection?
- What is the rhythm of your relationships and how can you honor that rhythm to keep them alive?
- Are you in a relationship where you can naturally ebb and flow, calling and catching up as you can?
- Do you need to be more scheduled and intentional about securing time to nurture your relationship?
- Can you plan a joint activity that you both look forward to, whether it’s local or abroad?
- How can you maintain consistent touchpoints while also planning special events to cherish together?
- What steps can you take to create a balance between regular communication and memorable shared experiences?

As we wrap up, remember to stay curious and open-minded in your relationships. Embrace new opportunities for joy and fun, allowing your connections to evolve while fostering personal growth.

Keep the spirit of friendship alive, whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or embarking on your own adventures. Until our next Wise Walk, tune in every Thursday for a new episode.

In this episode:

[03:46] A quick recap of my relationships with Jenn and Cass.

[05:13] We’ve reunited because of our shared interest in football.

[06:02] It’s so nice to know that you can rekindle a relationship and that passion you share spans time and distance.

[07:51] I’m in Northern Florida and Jenn and Cass are in Northern California. We’re 3,000 miles apart and Wales is across the pond.

[08:30] Technology has a beautiful way of bringing us all together.

[10:59] I’m excited about the match and a reunion with Jenn. Unfortunately, Cass isn’t going to be able to make the trip.

[11:31] We are open to appreciating the friends we have, and expanding and growing our circles.

[14:14] It’s important to be open and curious in relationships.

Memorable Quotes:

“When you have a relationship with those deep roots, and even if life has evolved and things have changed, it’s so easy to reestablish that connection with just a little bit of spark.” – Mary Tess
“It’s beautiful when you can figure out what is the rhythm of the relationships and how can you keep them alive honoring that rhythm.” – Mary Tess
“We are at a phase in life where we are appreciating the friends we have. And then we’re also growing in relationships with individuals that share common interests.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

231: Gratitude for Growth

by Mary Tess Rooney | Feb 27, 2025 | Podcast

I had an unexpected moment this week that made me stop and reflect. My trusty 2019 MacBook Pro – my sidekick through writing a book, producing this podcast and countless creative projects – finally reached the end of the road. As I stood at the Apple Store and heard the words “It’s time to say goodbye” I felt an emotional pang I didn’t expect.

Why is letting go so hard even when we know we need to? What happens when we hold on too tightly to things – objects, identities, relationships, beliefs – that have served us well but no longer serve us?

In this episode we explore the art of releasing what no longer fits so we can make space for what’s next. We’ll talk about embracing change, honouring the past with gratitude and stepping into new phases of life with intention. I’ll share some personal stories about outgrowing old habits, shifting perspectives and the freedom that comes with leaving the past behind.

Join me on this Wise Walk as we look at what we’re ready to release and how we can step forward with clarity and confidence.

- Even when it is hard to let something go, can you find gratitude for the growth it brought you?
- Can you appreciate everything that item, relationship, or experience gifted you during your time with it?
- Can you honor it, release it, and make space for something new in your life?
- Are you ready to step into the new version of yourself that you are evolving into?
- What do you need to let go of right now?
- Is there something you are holding onto too tightly because it has gotten you to where you are today?
- How can you release it?
- What do you want to invite into that space intentionally? Instead of leaving it to chance, what are you consciously welcoming in?
- Are there relationships in your life that no longer feel aligned, and would you benefit from releasing them to make space for new ones?
- Are there interests that were once part of your identity but no longer serve you, even though they brought you joy?
- Are you in a different phase of life where new interests might better serve you?
- Are there beliefs, thought patterns, or ideas that no longer support your growth, and are you open to releasing them?
- Do you feel shame about things you shouldn’t, or compare yourself to others in ways that hold you back?
- Are you holding onto clothing, habits, or identities that once served you but no longer align with who you are becoming?
- Can you open yourself up to growth, expansion, and new possibilities by letting go of what no longer fits?

I’d love to hear about the changes you are intentionally making to create space for growth and expansion. Share what’s on your heart and how you plan to move forward.

As always, I’d love to know what resonated with you from today’s episode. Feel free to reach out and share your thoughts. I look forward to hearing from you.

In this episode:

[02:39] I was attached to my old computer, because of all I accomplished with it. I know it’s time to grow and embrace the new.

[03:58] Healthy plants need to be transferred to larger pots or they won’t be able to grow. We need to create space for expansion.

[05:23] There are so many things I’ve outgrown from heels to relationships.

[06:50] With each release we can grow more and more into the people that we are meant to be.

[07:08] I’ve also outgrown shame.

[08:24] I’m also embracing my gray hair and the idea of who I once was.

[10:03] It took me a while to accept and release that I became a walker and a hiker instead of a runner.

[11:44] It’s a beautiful thing when we can let go of what we want and possessions that got us where we are.

[14:09] Let’s just honor where we are. Let’s give gratitude for the growth in your life, whether it is forced upon you or of your own choosing.

Memorable Quotes:

“Even when it is hard to let something go, can you find gratitude for the growth it brought you?” – Mary Tess
“We are all in this perpetual evolution, looking to release things in order to reach our highest and best selves.” – Mary Tess
“Every phase of life invites us to shed the old and step into the new with clarity and confidence.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP230: How Constructs Shape Emotions

by Mary Tess Rooney | Feb 20, 2025 | Podcast

Last week was Valentine’s Day and as I ran errands I saw so many emotions about this holiday. At one store I saw people sending beautifully packaged gifts to their loved ones and at another I heard someone complaining about how much they hate the day and find it stressful or depressing.

These conversations led to a fun realization that many things like Valentine’s Day are just social constructs, things we attach emotions to for better or for worse. This got me thinking: What else in life do we accept as given when in reality we have the power to redefine our experience?

In this episode we explore how social agreements like holidays and traditions affect our emotions, and how our personal experiences shape our perception of certain events. We’ll talk about how to reclaim control over expectations and create meaning that aligns with our values. I’ll also share a new way to celebrate love not just on Valentine’s Day, but everyday and give you questions to help you examine what’s really important in your life.

Join me on this Wise Walk as we talk about societal expectations and how we can choose to shape our own reality.

- As you reflect on Valentine’s Day, what emotions surface?
- Are they highs, lows, or somewhere in between?
- Does your experience change year to year based on what’s happening in your life?
- Why do you think this holiday affects your energy so strongly?
- How does the idea of love and caring influence your feelings about this holiday?
- Where are you giving your power away?
- What do you want to do about it?
- How do you want to design this day in your life?
- How can you take it one step further and apply this beyond Valentine’s Day?
- How are you designing your daily life around constructs that influence your energy?
- Can you recognize how these agreements shape your emotions?
- Can you shift them in a way that better serves you?
- Can you make strategic decisions to create a different experience for yourself?
- What feelings surface for you, and what choices or actions can you take to shift your energy?
- What areas of your life do you want to explore to determine what is made up and what is truly serving you?
- What can you start to examine and peel back to understand what is real?
- What is rooted in an agreement you made that you still want to honor?
- What is rooted in an agreement that no longer aligns with you?
- What steps can you take to change what no longer serves you?
- Where can you get curious about the belief systems or constructs shaping your life?
- How can you use them to your benefit so they align with you?
- How can you let go of what no longer serves you?

I’m so grateful you join me on these Wise Walks each week. So whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a Valentine’s year, or even a Valentine’s decade, let’s celebrate love, appreciation, and self-love in whatever way feels right to you.

I hope this episode gave you a fresh perspective and the freedom to create your own rules, or let go of the ones that no longer bring you joy. Stay curious, stay true to yourself, and I’ll see you on our next Wise Walk.

In this episode:

[04:03] As I reflect back, I realize there’s a lot of pressure around this holiday. I feel differently about it now that I’m single.

[05:15] My friend had a similar experience. Acknowledging people with a loving heart centered connection makes them light up.

[06:58] I was thinking of ways to practice self love and self care on Valentine’s Day and make up my own rules.

[07:19] I was even thinking about getting my taxes done as a way to practice self-love.

[09:15] What is real? So much is rooted in agreement as made up rules.

[10:50] In my conversations with Paul Cuneo, I’m exploring what is made up, what is true, and what is coded.

[13:56] Peeling back names and labels of religions out there, you realize a lot of the belief systems are more similar than not, but coded language creates differences, which are not necessarily true and real.

[14:27] We’re all entitled to our individual experiences.

[15:11] Deadlines are made up. Often we need them in order to get things done.

Memorable Quotes:

“Valentine’s Day is every day. I don’t need a holiday to mark loving and caring and nurturing.” – Mary Tess
“You are completely entitled to your individual experience. I am entitled to my individual experience.” – Mary Tess
“There are so many things that are made up in this lifetime, like truly made up. There are made up constructs. There are made up holidays. And we attach emotions to them.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

Paul Cuneo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-cuneo

PaulWrites.media

EP229: Appreciate Your Ego

by Mary Tess Rooney | Feb 13, 2025 | Podcast

When I first started yoga and became a teacher in 2009, one of the biggest lessons I learned was to leave your ego at the door. In the spiritual world, we talk about the dangers of the ego, how it can make us competitive, resistant to feedback, or push us into things that don’t feel aligned. I loved that perspective at the time. It reminded me yoga isn’t about keeping up with anyone else. It’s just you and the mat.

But over the years, I’ve come to realize something else. The ego isn’t something to overcome. It’s us. It gives us confidence, drives us to achieve, and when in balance, helps us move forward with purpose. So for today’s Wise Walk, let’s slow down and check in with ourselves. How do we see the ego? Have we been conditioned to see it as bad, or can we start to see its healthy, positive role in our lives?

- When you hear someone bring up the ego in conversation, do you automatically see it as a negative?
- Have you been taught to believe the ego prevents authenticity and real relationships?
- When was the last time you stopped to appreciate the positive aspects of your ego?
- Can you slow down and notice all the ways the ego supports you in healthy ways?
- Can we acknowledge the healthy side of the ego?
- Where in your life have you done something that surprised and delighted you? Do you take time to acknowledge it?
- Do you share your success with others and say, “Hey, this turned out better than I expected, and I’m really pleased with how it turned out”?
- Can you give yourself that acknowledgment because it’s genuine?
- Can you recognize that it’s authentic and not about diminishing anyone else’s power or contributions?
- Can you take a moment to appreciate and express gratitude for how far you’ve come?
- If you have a healthy relationship with your ego and acknowledge your successes, do you also take time to laugh at the moments when you fall short or fail?
- Can you put your ego aside and say, “You know what, I’m not perfect,” and accept that as part of life?
- Can you stay in balance by appreciating both your achievements and the times you fall short?
- Can you recognize that missing the mark is okay because there will always be more opportunities to try?
- If you’re honest about your failures, can you see how much you’ve learned from them?
- What has been your experience or understanding of the ego?
- Have you been influenced by the idea that ego should always be checked and seen as negative?
- Can you appreciate and thank the ego for all it does in your life?
- Can you recognize how the ego can serve both you and others in a positive way?
- Can you find balance by setting your ego aside when it’s not serving you and embracing it when it is?

Thank you for joining me on this Wise Walk. I’d love to hear what resonated with you from today’s episode. I hope you continue to grow and appreciate the healthy aspects of your ego as you move forward. Join me next Thursday for another conversation.

In this episode:

[03:30] When we think about ego, we don’t necessarily highlight the positives. It really helps us with our self-esteem and gives us self-confidence.

[04:21] If we are focused on achieving for the right reasons, the ego can’t be bad.

[05:23] If we can capture the child-like essence and be purely proud of when we achieve something in a way that brings joy, that’s a healthy type of ego.

[06:43] It’s okay to appreciate how well something turns out.

[08:16] One of the areas in my life where I’m acknowledging my ego driven success is in my cooking.

[09:57] Having balance is the key point in managing or appreciating our ego.

[12:19] A story about my mom being so proud of not falling while ice skating, which led to a lesson in stretching boundaries and trying new things.

[13:51] I love this story, because it gave me permission to try things and fail or fall.

[15:38] I love how the spiritual world has brought an awareness of ego and not trying to eliminate it, but to increase awareness.

[16:11] The duality of ego is important because without contrast we don’t know which way to go.

[17:35] Don’t get triggered by a side of the ego that’s not serving you.

[18:13] Acknowledge the ego in ways that serve us in healthy ways and when it needs to be checked.

Memorable Quotes:

“The ego gives us our self-belief and our self-confidence to go after things that we really want. The ego also helps drive us to achieve.” – Mary Tess
“I grew up knowing that it was OK to fail. It was OK to just literally fall, but we had to keep trying.” – Mary Tess
“We nurture the positive side of the ego when we try new things, allowing us to build self-belief and confidence.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP228: Signs to Lift You Up

by Mary Tess Rooney | Feb 6, 2025 | Podcast

One of the things I’ve talked about before is how I’ve learned to pay attention to the small stuff, the stuff that feels like more than coincidence. Over the years, I’ve noticed patterns, symbols and signs that show up, just when I need them. The more I’ve leaned into this awareness, the more I’ve realized these small moments can bring comfort, reassurance and even direction.

A friend texted me about a white feather that showed up on her car dashboard, pristine and perfectly placed. This reminded me of how I used to dismiss the small stuff as random but later learned to see the meaning. I also started thinking about the role of signs in our lives and how they can be reminders that we are supported and never alone.

In this episode, I share my own stories of unexpected signs, like finding pennies everywhere I went and how they led me to a deeper sense of connection. I also share stories from friends who found meaning in butterflies, frogs, numbers and even songs, all of which led us to feel close to loved ones who had passed. Today’s Wise Walk encourages you to slow down, check in with yourself and get curious about the signs around you.

- Do you ever find yourself noticing something that seems out of the ordinary and wonder if it’s a sign?
- When you notice a sign, do you take time to appreciate it, reflect on its meaning, or express gratitude for it?
- If you don’t usually notice signs, are you open to the possibility of them?
- Are there opportunities for you to pay closer attention and recognize things that stand out in unexpected ways?
- What do you think a particular sign might mean for you?
- What signs are showing up for you, and which ones do you want to give meaning to?
- When you receive these messages, do you take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate them?
- Do you express gratitude for the signs you notice?
- How do you recognize and welcome these signs so they continue to appear when you need them?
- Are there signs appearing in your life, whether through numbers, animals, or objects like feathers or pennies?
- What are some consistent, unexpected events or reminders that feel meaningful to you right now?
- Is there something weighing on you, or do you seek comfort, protection, or alignment in some way?
- Once you give meaning to a sign, can you have fun with it and embrace the playful side?
- Can you actively look for more of these signs when you need reassurance or guidance?

Thanks for joining me today. I would love to hear what resonated with you, what signs you notice in your life, and what they mean to you. I always enjoy learning from your experiences and getting curious together.

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to tune in next Thursday for another Wise Walk. Until then, stay open, stay curious, and keep noticing the signs around you.

In this episode:

[02:44] The first time I started to appreciate signs, I was finding pennies all over the place.

[04:00] I thought the pennies were a sign from a higher power, but I didn’t know what they were trying to tell me.

[05:03] I love that many of us feel a presence or connection and are open to receiving messages from beyond in whatever shape or form.

[06:04] When my friend’s sister was passing on, she said if you see butterflies it’s me. Her family saw butterflies in all kinds of shapes and forms.

[07:01] The signs were all over the place, and it gave the family great comfort.

[08:03] I love the acceptance and receiving of signs that lift us up. The more we notice, the more we receive.

[08:59] We all have ups and downs in life. These signs can be so comforting.

[09:50] White feathers generally mean an angelic presence or protection.

[12:18] Sometimes when I’m in a rough patch and need a reminder that I’m not alone, I’ll just start looking for pennies.

[14:02] I love that we can communicate our inner wants and needs and be surprised and delighted when we’re open to receiving.

[15:09] Start noticing any patterns that consistently show up for you.

[16:22] If you think you’ve received a sign, you have.

Memorable Quotes:

“The more we notice, the more we receive. And when we acknowledge these moments with gratitude, they have a way of showing up just when we need them most.” – Mary Tess
“If something catches your attention and makes you pause, trust that it’s meant for you. The universe has a way of speaking in whispers—you just have to listen.” – Mary Tess
“Sometimes, all we need is a little reminder that we are loved, protected, and supported. Those reminders are all around us if we choose to see them.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP227: Aren’t You Interesting!

by Mary Tess Rooney | Jan 30, 2025 | Podcast

If you’re new to this podcast, I’m so glad you’re here. One of the things I’ve shared in prior episodes is that I have been managing a bone marrow cancer diagnosis since 2002—that’s 23 years and counting. It’s been a journey filled with highs and lows, but right now, I’m in a good phase where my blood levels are stable. Even so, I still check in with my doctors regularly, staying in a watch-and-wait phase to monitor my health.

During a recent doctor’s visit, a new physician assistant looked over my medical history and, with curiosity, remarked, “You’re quite interesting.” That moment sparked today’s conversation about what it means to be different, to not fit the mold, and to embrace that uniqueness as a strength.

In this episode, I share why I’ve taken a different approach to my health and how it’s worked for me, along with the importance of celebrating what makes you unique rather than seeing it as a setback. I talk about how we can find connection and community even when our experiences don’t perfectly align, as I’ve discovered through my involvement with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

I also explore how breaking patterns can lead to new discoveries and perspectives, and why innovation often comes from those who challenge the norm. Most importantly, I reflect on the power of self-trust and the freedom that comes with honoring your own path instead of following what’s expected.

Whether it’s in health, career, or personal growth, we all have moments where we deviate from the standard—but can we embrace it? Can we see it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle? Today’s wise walk invites you to reflect on where you’ve stepped outside the norm, how it’s shaped your journey, and where you might want to break the mold next.

- Where in your life do people say, “Oh, you are quite interesting!”
- When they say it, what is your emotional or energetic reaction?
- Do you feel taken aback because they are differentiating you from the norm?
- Are you able to embrace your uniqueness and the qualities that make you stand out?
- Can you celebrate your uniqueness as a superpower?
- How do you want to respond energetically and emotionally when people recognize how interesting you are?
- When you reflect on a time in your life when you deviated from the norm, what has worked for you?
- Have you noticed any advantages in doing things differently?
- Do you manage a team in a way that sets you apart from others?
- Are you highly skilled in an area but approach it differently than those before you?
- What in your life do you want to deviate from?
- Where do you want to set a new standard or raise the bar?
- Is there something you’ve always done a certain way but feel there’s a better approach?
- What do you have to lose by trying something new?
- Are you willing to believe in yourself and honor your uniqueness?
- Can you embrace being an anomaly and confidently step outside the norm?
- Where are you deviating from the norm?
- Where can you find a community that supports you?
- How can you connect with others through shared understanding and appreciation?
- What opens up for you when you embrace your uniqueness?
- How does recognizing your individuality change your perspective on yourself?

Thank you so much for going on this Wise Walk with me today and for sharing my story. Oh, and my results are strong! I’m staying consistent, and while I still have to check in with my doctor every six months, everything is looking good.

So we’re going to celebrate that too. Thank you, thank you for being a part of this Strider’s community!

In this episode:

[04:58] At first, I was a little bit taken aback because this was the first time I was meeting that doctor. Then I agreed that I am interesting because I don’t fit the norm.

[06:08] I want to celebrate my uniqueness.

[07:35] Can we honor deviations when we feel called?

[08:34] My nephew has started playing golf. He uses a traditional grip, but a famous golfer decided to deviate from the norm and now he’s revered for his grip.

[10:03] It only takes one person to show something new to inspire the rest of us.

[11:31] There is excitement about having commonality with people.

[12:03] Not fitting the norm or being an outlier can make us feel alone.

[13:07] There will always be pros and cons to being unique.

[15:35] Sometimes groundbreaking discoveries result from our unique deviation.

[16:32] I want to encourage you to deviate from the standard if you feel called to.

Memorable Quotes:

“Celebrating your uniqueness is not just about accepting who you are, but recognizing that what makes you different is also what makes you powerful.” – Mary Tess
“Not being the norm can be a really great thing, because when you step outside of expectations, you create space for new possibilities and discoveries that wouldn’t exist otherwise.” – Mary Tess
“Honoring the choices that feel right for you, even when they don’t align with conventional wisdom, is an act of self-trust and self-care.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources:

EP226: Manifest Your Feels

by Mary Tess Rooney | Jan 23, 2025 | Podcast

In our last episode, we explored faith in action, and how powerful faith-based practices help guide our lives. Afterward, a Strider reached out with reflections on communicating through prayer, sparking a deeper dive into the connections and distinctions between prayer, meditation, and manifestation. Another listener then asked if we could unpack manifestation even more. They had dreams for 2025 and wanted to learn how to incorporate manifestation into their daily life.

That’s what I love about this True Stride community. Each week, as we go on this journey together, you help me drop into my heart, ground myself, and re-center on what’s happening and what matters. These Wise Walks are about checking our reality, noticing what works, releasing what no longer aligns, and intentionally attracting what we want to create. For today’s Wise Walk, I thought we could slow down, check our reality, and focus on what we want to manifest in our life as a way to be intentional about moving forward.

- What are your goals for 2025?
- What goals are tugging at your heartstrings?
- If money and limitations were not factors, what would you seek?
- What do you truly desire?
- What do you dream of calling forward into your life this year?
- What would make a big difference for you in 2025?
- What choices and actions can you take to help manifest your goal?
- What path can you create to bring your vision to life?
- Who can help you along the way?
- How can you send a clear message to the universe that you are serious about your goal?
- What are the statements for your buckets of goals?
- How can you feel the “feels” and write your statements in an “I am,” it’s already happening mindset?
- How can you envision your goals coming to life?
- What choices and actions will you take to back up your vision?

I’d love to hear your takeaways from today’s episode, so feel free to reach out and share.

If you have suggestions for next week’s podcast, keep them coming. I love connecting with you and hearing your thoughts.

Thank you for being part of this amazing Striders Community and for helping us grow and evolve together.

In this episode:

[04:11] The number one thing that I’m drawn to this year is the idea of freedom. I spent 2024 trying to purge distractions and things weighing me down whether they be physical, emotional, spiritual, or energetic.

[05:40] “I am light, high energy, and grounded thanks to my simple and clutter-free life.”

[06:36] What is a statement that you can create to get 1% closer or 1% more aligned every single day?

[07:17] The part of manifestation that I love is that once you sit down and write your statements, that feel aligned, you move into your heart.

[08:31] I love how the universe is supporting me and selling my van. This will make my life more fluid and frictionless.

[09:20] We want to create the mindset that things are getting better and better.

[10:37] Another manifestation goal I have is related to my health.

[11:32] “My teeth are beautiful, strong and healthy. I only visit dentists for cleanings every six months.”

[13:07] I love the balance of being intentional and backing it up with other actions.

[14:02] I’ve written out 19 manifestation statements, and one of them is about this podcast and my relationship to you listeners.

Memorable Quotes:

“If we got 1% more aligned every single day, then by the end of the year, we are 365 days closer to our goal.” – Mary Tess
“The more we can envision it, the more we feel it, and the more the universe responds to that.” – Mary Tess
“I love that balance of how we can be intentional and then also back it up with choices and actions.” – Mary Tess

Links and Resources: