Julie Wacker - Counsellor & Life Coach

09/09/2024

Feeling incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the CA Sri Lanka - Australia Chapter’s Inaugural Conference, 'Navigating the Future'! 🙌

I had the honor of speaking on mental health and joining a fantastic panel discussion where we tackled some of the big questions around balancing modern-day work life, especially as an expat. 🌏

It was an amazing experience, connecting with so many inspiring people and sharing ideas on how we can navigate the challenges that come with today's fast-paced world. A huge thank you to the organizers, fellow speakers, and everyone who attended for making it such a memorable event!

Looking forward to continuing these important conversations. 💬

19/08/2024

🌿✨ Discover the Japanese Art of Forest Bathing 🌳🌸

In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and connection with nature can be truly transformative. That's where Shinrin-yoku, or "forest bathing," comes in—a beautiful Japanese practice that invites us to immerse ourselves in the healing power of nature.

Unlike traditional baths, forest bathing isn't about water—it's about taking a slow, mindful walk through the woods, breathing in the fresh air, and soaking in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. This simple yet profound experience can help reduce stress, boost mood, and even strengthen our immune system.

Next time you're feeling overwhelmed, consider taking a break from the hustle and bustle. Step into a nearby forest or park, leave your worries behind, and let nature work its magic. 🌲💚

05/07/2024

Attitude is a little ting that makes a big difference.

#𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐞𝐭 #𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 #𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐉𝐨𝐲
#𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞 #𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲

20/06/2024

I was recently interviewed by Sunbury Life about one of the most pressing issues many people face today: redundancy and the journey to finding a new job. This opportunity allowed me to delve deep into the challenges and emotions surrounding job loss and offer practical advice on navigating the path to new employment.

During the interview, we covered:
🔹 The emotional impact of redundancy and how to cope with it.
🔹 Practical steps to take immediately after a job loss.
🔹 Strategies for identifying and leveraging your unique strengths.
🔹 Tips for updating your resume to stand out.
🔹 Networking effectively and tapping into the hidden job market.
🔹 Preparing for interviews and building confidence.

Redundancy can be a daunting experience, but with the right mindset and tools, it can also be a chance for new beginnings and growth. Whether you're currently facing redundancy or just want to be prepared, I believe this interview offers valuable insights that can make a real difference.

🎙️ You can read the full interview on SunburyLife at sunburylife.au or tune in to SunburyRadio (99.3 FM or online at sunburyradio.com.au) where the audio interview is also being featured. 🎧

Anyone who’s found themselves out of a job through no fault of their own will go through a number of emotions; shock, fear, anger, resentment, eventually followed by acceptance and then the journey back into paid work.

09/05/2024

Life's journey is filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges, but it's also sprinkled with moments of joy, growth, and resilience.

As a counselor, I'm here to remind you that no matter what obstacles come your way, there's always a path forward. Let's work together to shift your perspective and focus on the positives, no matter how small they may seem. Remember, you're stronger than you think, and brighter days are ahead.

Keep shining! ✨

09/04/2024

In a world where emotions can run high and tensions often flare, it's essential to pause and consider the power of response over reaction. Reacting impulsively might feel instinctual, but taking a moment to respond thoughtfully can lead to incredible benefits both personally and in our interactions with others.

Here are some reasons why responding is the ultimate game-changer:

1️⃣ Promotes Clarity and Understanding: Reacting in the heat of the moment can cloud our judgment and lead to misunderstandings. By taking a moment to respond, we can gather our thoughts, process information more effectively, and communicate with clarity. This promotes better understanding and reduces the risk of conflict.

2️⃣ Strengthens Relationships: Whether it's in personal or professional relationships, responding allows us to express ourselves in a way that is respectful and considerate of others' feelings. It shows that we value the relationship and are willing to invest the time and effort to communicate constructively. This fosters trust and strengthens the bond between individuals.

3️⃣ Encourages Empathy: Responding involves taking the perspective of others into account. It requires us to consider their feelings, thoughts, and motivations before formulating a response. This empathetic approach not only fosters deeper connections but also promotes a more compassionate and understanding society.

4️⃣ Empowers Self-Control: Reacting impulsively often leaves us feeling out of control and at the mercy of our emotions. On the other hand, responding empowers us to take control of the situation. It allows us to regulate our emotions, make rational decisions, and act in alignment with our values and goals.

5️⃣ Facilitates Problem-Solving: When faced with challenges or conflicts, reacting can escalate the situation and hinder resolution. Responding, on the other hand, opens the door to effective problem-solving. It allows us to approach issues with a clear mind, seek common ground, and work towards mutually beneficial solutions.

6️⃣ Promotes Personal Growth: Choosing to respond instead of react is a reflection of our emotional intelligence and maturity. It demonstrates our ability to manage our emotions and navigate complex situations with grace and resilience. By practicing response over reaction, we continuously evolve and grow as individuals.

So, the next time you find yourself in a challenging situation, remember the transformative power of response.

Take a deep breath, pause, and choose to respond thoughtfully. The benefits are endless, both for yourself and those around you.