"Being proactive—sending that intimidating email, making that uncomfortable phone call—can be game-changers. Small actions really do lead to that big win."

Have you ever felt like fear and obstacles are just gigantic boulders blocking your road to success? Well, today’s episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for you. I had the chance to chat with the incredible Cheri Schultz, and let me tell you, this woman knows a thing or two about overcoming major life hurdles.

Cheri’s journey is a vivid reminder that even when life throws you into the deep end, there’s always a way to swim back to the surface. Imagine being sued for over $4,000,000 during the chaotic 2008 real estate crash—talk about a financial and emotional rollercoaster! And yet, Cheri not only survived but thrived, transforming those experiences into wisdom and power.

One jaw-dropping takeaway from our conversation was her deep belief in the power of little victories. Cheri shared how focusing on small wins and using past successes as fuel can light up your entrepreneurial path. It’s like building a staircase to your goals, one step at a time.

Now, it wasn’t a cakewalk for her. She opened up about navigating two years filled with fear, depression, and crushing anxiety. But here's the golden nugget: facing those fears head-on and choosing a positive attitude. It’s about taking that leap despite the shaky knees. Being proactive—sending that intimidating email, making that uncomfortable phone call—can be game-changers. Small actions really do lead to that big win.

Cheri emphasized one of my favorite strategies: the trusty to-do list. It's not just about jotting down tasks; it’s about staying focused and celebrating even the tiniest achievements. This helps keep our minds clear and forward-thinking, especially when the going gets tough.

So, what’s the secret sauce to overcoming challenges? According to Cheri, it's persistence, belief in ourselves, and, of course, a heap of patience, hope, and faith. She had some sage advice about pushing through despite naysayers and how crucial it is to have a "victor" mindset instead of a "victim" one. Stubbornness never sounded so positive!

Another poignant point was Cheri's advice on self-empowerment—particularly for us women who might sometimes feel not good enough. The key is stepping out of our comfort zones and thinking positively, never letting others dictate our worth.

For those of you dealing with health issues (I hear you!), Cheri’s insights were a breath of fresh air. Both she and I have faced our share of health challenges, but we agreed that these should not stop us from reaching our dreams. It’s a mindset shift that says, “I am not a victim; I am a victor.”

Remember, taking small, consistent action steps every day is your ticket to long-term success. Whenever you feel stuck, think of Cheri’s journey, and remember that you too possess the power to overcome any obstacle thrown your way.

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ABOUT SUZANNE PROKSA, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, HHP

I'm Suzanne Proksa. A SHRM-SCP and SPHR certified Human Resources and Business Strategist, IAWP Certified Wellness Coach, AADP certified Holistic Health Practitioner, fierce supporter of women, and autoimmune educator + advocate. My focus is supporting, coaching, and creating programs for women, people-focused organizations, and online businesses so they can positively impact their own lives and those of others.

In my time as an online strategist, I've helped thousands of women gain confidence, establish clarity in their businesses, get visible and drive audience growth, create simple strategies and automation to grow their businesses, crush their tech challenges, and start making sales. During my time in HR, I have launched and led multiple initiatives to enrich and improve company culture and the employee experience. I've had my hands in business nearly my entire life starting when I was a kid selling my creations in my neighborhood. My business Bliss Candles was a Featured Seller on Etsy, featured in the book “How to Make Money on Etsy,” and a community favorite - and also a trailblazer in online marketing for small business.

My work has been published and featured in the Huffington Post, Medium, Thrive Global, the Amazing Women of Influence Summit, and on my beloved podcasts.

I've been honored with nominations for the MISHRM Human Resources Lifetime Achievement Award, the HR Unite! Inspire Award, and the HR Unite! TA Trailblazer Award.

When I'm not loving on my business or being the best HR leader I can be -- I'm lifting up people however I can, strength training, studying all things women's health, geeking out over technology, attending networking events, and working/living in the beautiful oasis I've built at home.

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