The power of pause

Inspiration shot April 2025

Sometimes life is like a dog: it forces you to pause, get more fresh air, and see everything from a different perspective. After months of traveling and making plans, April unexpectedly brought me exactly what I needed: rest, puppies, and ice-cold water.

In this Inspiration shot: how eight rescued puppies taught me something about grounding, why my theater show is going ahead (despite rumors), how you can benefit from my VA, and why I consider staying in one place for five weeks a mini-vacation. Oh, and I’m still looking for a catchy name for my ‘best of’ workshop series — will you help me brainstorm?

Enjoy reading, and as always: let yourself be inspired!

Rescue a puppy… and yourself!

Having a dog around brings calm and grounding. Stuck behind your computer? Go play! It’s even scientifically proven that petting a dog boosts the happiness hormone oxytocin (also known as the ‘cuddle hormone’). A dog also forces you to walk more, even when the weather isn’t great. In this FB post, I share what I’ve learned from the (now 8) puppies I’ve rescued or fostered.

Here in Puglia, sadly, dogs are often treated like disposable items. Whenever I’m here, I try to help the local volunteers. The three puppies I’m caring for this month (Wolf, Fox, and Bear) luckily found a forever home quickly, but there are still many dogs (especially bigger and older ones) sadly waiting for a chance to show how lovely they are and how much they can enrich your life. Follow Giada Perrone on Facebook or Instagram to see a constant stream of dogs who truly deserve a better life. Not ready to adopt? Please consider supporting these volunteers.

Has the theater show been cancelled?

Earlier this week, I announced on social media that I would cancel my theater show. “It’s all a bit too much hassle. I’d rather spend my birthday with a cup of tea on the couch…” You guessed it…

Read my April Fools’ joke and the reactions. I was surprised how many people believed it (especially on LinkedIn, strangely enough) and said, “if it doesn’t feel right, you just shouldn’t do it.” Sweet, but not exactly the ‘no excuses’ mindset I stand for. Just in case you’re still wondering: the show IS happening!

Help me come up with a good name

My workshops are known for inspiration, practical tips, and a no-excuses mindset. Although I no longer give live workshops, I still love sharing my knowledge, experience, and no-nonsense approach. That’s why I’ve recorded my best workshops and bundled them into a complete package with books, bonus videos, and extra material; so you have everything you need in one place. A kind of ‘Best of Esther’.

But what do I call this? Workshop bundle or recording? Video series, eCourse? I’m struggling to find a name that clearly shows this is the starting point for anyone wanting to dive into a topic like writing a book, becoming a digital nomad or entrepreneur, and working smarter. With ALL the knowledge and experience I’ve gathered over the past decades. Suggestions for a good name are very welcome.

My VA is available for your project

Since I’ve decided to slow down after my 55th birthday, I’ve trained my Virtual Assistant and Online Business Manager Jelena, who I’ve been working with for the past 5 years, to also support your project.

Whether you need a book cover (check out the beautiful covers she’s created for my clients), want to publish your book on KDP/Amazon, need help organizing things, or managing a project: you can now reach out to her directly for any task or project.

Just leave a few of her hours for me, please? 😉