We’ve all heard just how impactful the power of connection is, human connection especially. While there is a lot to be said for alone or “me” time to recharge, reset and just clear the mind – sharing a conversation, creating meaningful friendships and interacting is proven to lift the spirit, increase endorphins and develop a sense of connection. Interestingly enough, it is rarely the quantity of relationships, but the quality that truly withstands time.
As adults most of us can relate to what it’s like to start over at some point – maybe a move, a life change, career, marriage, children, illness, death, etc., that can leave us feeling kind of like a fish flopping out of water. We may tell ourselves we have everything we need, we don’t need friendships, we’re fine just as we are but deep down there is a need for connection. That doesn’t always come easy as many of us can attest to. Number one with so many said responsibilities, hours in a day and other things going on where in the world are more hours going to be created to cultivate these new opportunities to make solid connections? So, where and how do you make new friends? Sounds so simple and easy, yet it can be really tough and even, awkward!
This week, we were honored to sit down and chat with the beautifully grounded & inspiring Veronica Benson from the gorgeous state of Utah. Veronica wears many hats as a wife, mother, entrepreneur, friend, leader – at the end of the day we all do and while we should not allow titles (or lack of) to define us, Veronica is not shy about saying, “You know what, it looks like I do all of these things on the outside and have it together, but I don’t and I don’t do them alone, either. It is impossible. There is help from others and for that I am so grateful,” she said. Amen to our support systems and finding the strength to create them when are lacking.
“Once you have gone through something, it opens so many doors to other people who are going through something who needs your support. Like a domino effect. I know there is great power in what we go through. Sharing the hard things can help others go through what they’re going through,” Veronica shared.
About 11 years ago Veronica’s mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away. Veronica, 25 years old at the time with two young children was trying to figure out where she fit in – which she knows has always been a personal struggle for her. Veronica had a very close relationship with her mom. Her mom was Veronica’s biggest cheerleader and friend. Veronica soon realized that she was craving connection more so than ever after losing her mom, she was unhappy and knew something had to change. Life is meant to be lived, not dealt with – she made a decision and was done living in that space. Veronica knew that she felt empowered & fulfilled when getting to together and creating a connection with others and felt in her heart there were others that craved this, too.
Having started several businesses in the past and an entrepreneur at heart, Veronica naturally has a very solution oriented personality – hello first born! 😉 She followed her heart noticing a void she had and knew that she was not alone, other women felt the need for connection as well. It needed to be in a safe & welcoming space though, one that a new relationship could naturally be born and continue from there. A space that in the evening one was comfortable in jammies and chic chat – perhaps even with a side of Oreos with no judgment. Veronica’s passion is bringing women together to lift and inspire one another, to learn from one another and to help each other grow. In 2018 Utah Women’s Retreats was created.
“When women come together, amazing things happen. We need to help lift one another up rather than tear down. Let us be more willing to lend a helping hand and to give words of encouragement. We need each other,” Veronica shared.
With two – three weekend retreats a year the women who attend get to plan for it and have the opportunity to get excited and come together in a more intimate setting for an amazing weekend. The weekends give the women more time to get to know one another versus creating a quick connection and never getting the opportunity to allow that friendship to grow. In addition to the weekend events, there are a few one off events that are shorter, just a few hours with guest speakers covering various topics. Think of the shorter events as a fun, warm – up event that give women a chance to get a sneak peak into what the weekend retreat may look and feel like.
The retreats are ever changing to meet the needs of the women attending. Different themes & events, never a repeat. Spaces of course are limited as to maintain the intimacy of a smaller group versus a large one. With the start of a new year, well, a new decade the next retreat takes place in the pristine & magical Bear Lake, Utah on January 10th – 12th where the them is, “This is MY Year.” The guests will have a chance to connect, form relationships, talk about and plan for 2020. “It’s less about business and more about life,” said Veronica.
When we asked Veronica about the most unexpected thing she has learned along the way she shared, “No matter what I’ve been through I can heal. I can’t change the past, but I can move forward into the future feeling better and doing better.” – We. Just. Love. That. Perspective, babes – sometimes it’s all about the power of perspective and mindset.
Veronica’s Red Bra Moment: Knowing and feeling that my mom is there supporting me and even though she is no longer living, I feel her and her love. Even though I may not be able to see her, I FEEL her strength supporting me, every day.
Make sure you all make it to the end of Episode 44 to hear Veronica’s own inspiring story about strength, connection and the power of hope. We know you will leave feel empowered with a little more of a pep in your mental step to work through the tough times and make it out stronger than ever.
Thank you so much Veronica for taking the time to share you beautiful story with us. You are creating a wonderful space out there for genuine connection.
Here’s where to connect with the inspiring Veronica for fun, sisterhood, self growth & connection:
Utah Women’s Retreat – Kick off the New Year, Winter Retreat
Thanks for stopping by, you are so appreciated! We hope this story inspired you or someone you know on some level. We know it did us, please share away. Always wear that red bra underneath it all and make sure to join the party over @theredbraproject!
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Xx,
The Red Bra Project
