Life Lessons:
Deborah Moskovitch
*Are you happy at the moment?
Absolutely! I’m very happy, and feel very fortunate to be in such a positive place. Having written The Smart Divorce, a Canadian best seller and a top-selling book in the US, becoming a divorce coach, public speaker and media contact, I am living my life beyond my wildest dreams. Who would have thought that when I said those words “I want a divorce”, that 17 years later I’m living the best life yet, and making a difference for so many.
*If you could go back and say anything to your 16-year-old self now – what would it be?
Follow your dreams and don’t be a follower…..believe in yourself and reach for the stars. If you really want something, go with gusto to achieve your goals. Don’t let the naysayers discourage you. Live outside your comfort zone, take chances and don’t be afraid to fail. Live life to the fullest, and never look back with regret. Be independent and don’t rely on others to make you happy – you have to find your inner peace and happiness. Don’t let anyone stand in your way of achieving your life’s ambitions.
*What’s the most important thing you’ve learned this year?
Persistence is key! I’ve learned not to react negatively to other people’s busy schedules – and taking it as sign of not interested. If they seem truly busy, and just don’t have the time to take my call or answer an email in a timely manner, I will take the time to follow up over a period of time in a very non-threatening, non-intrusive manner. Eventually we end up connecting, and have a very positive business relationship.
*What do you most want to achieve in the next 12 months?
I’ve developed a very comprehensive marketing program for 2014, and plan on achieving the goals set out. This includes providing divorce support for organizations, developing additional events, resources and tools to help guide individuals through the divorce process to make smart choices for a happier, healthier future. The process is unfolding according to schedule, and achieving my goals this year is definitely on the horizon.
*What’s your secret to happiness?
Work, life, balance. I know, it sounds cliché, but as I am self-employed, I got caught up working around the clock. This wasn’t healthy for my relationship, my kids or me. I’ve focused on realistic objectives, not chasing a million ideas and getting nothing done. This enabled me to have greater clarity, focus and “me” and “we” time.
*What one ritual or practice keeps you grounded?
I got so caught up in work that nothing was a priority, and became frustrated and resentful that I couldn’t pursue my passions. I am now making time for my new hobby – photography; make a concerted effort to workout and spend time with friends. Not only has this kept me grounded, but also more focused as I use my time far more wisely now. I’m spending time doing what I love, rather than dreaming about it. And, my business is growing far more now, than when work was my only focus.
*What’s your biggest regret?
Not believing in myself – nor having the confidence to live outside my comfort zone. I also listened to too many people, and cared way too much about what everyone else thought. I share that lesson with my children, and I really admire how their lives are unfolding on their terms, not on everyone else’s.
*What’s the most important lesson you’ve taught your kid(s)?
Pursue your dreams, and make the effort count. I’ve turned my regrets into life lessons for my kids. Also, don’t procrastinate!
*What bad habit would you most like to change about yourself?
I’m an ideas person, and so always working on a number of projects. It can get overwhelming and time consuming.
*Aside from motherhood/fatherhood and marriage what are you most proud of in your life?
Writing The Smart Divorce, which has become a Canadian bestseller, and a top selling book in the U.S. and many countries in Europe. Also, channeling my difficult divorce to create a business, The Smart Divorce that is making a difference for many contemplating divorce, just getting started, or in the throes of divorce. I love guiding people to have a positive outcome from their divorce for happier, healthier future – it all makes me so very proud.
*When were you happiest?
I’m at the happiest point in my life now. Everything is working as it should . . . I’m accomplishing my goals, living life beyond my wildest dreams, my children are happy where they are at….there’s nothing more I could ask for. I’m thankful everyday. I couldn’t have made that statement years ago.
*What ten words best describe you?
Happy. Confident. Honest. Thoughtful. Creative. Passionate. Compassionate. Realistic. Grounded. Nice.
Deborah Moskovitch is a Divorce Coach supporting people in having more positive outcomes from their divorce, for a happier and healthier future. She understands divorce, because she has been through her own seven-year struggle that ended more than 10 years ago. That process inspired Deborah to hunt for less painful ways to manage the divorce process and share it with others. Responding to the demand for “neutral” support, Deborah founded,The Smart Divorce® to provide informative resources support coaching and powerful education tools to empower and free people during this difficult time. As a Divorce Coach, she provides private one-on-one coaching, events, and other unique divorce support services for individuals and for organizations across North America. The Smart Divorce® is your one stop shop for cost effective divorce support. She’s in your camp!
