I have a sign that my kids made for me as a Christmas present many years ago. It’s made of a simple wooden board with the word ‘Joy’ spelled out in bright rope lights. Over the years, it has become my favorite decoration, one that gets the best spot in the house – above the fireplace.

As my kids grew taller and moved away to college, the dynamics of our home shifted. Last year, I made the decision to move the Joy sign into my home office, where I spend a lot of time writing, working, and reflecting on life. It felt fitting; I needed 2023 to be the “Year of Joy,” and the Joy sign was a nice visual support tool

I started by diligently turning off the Joy sign at bedtime and switching it back on in the morning. Even joy, I thought, needs its moments of rest. I loved how it looked at night – a warm, welcoming glow that greeted me when I returned from late-night gigs.

Life, however, has its own way of getting hectic. During times of intense busyness, I would forget to turn off the Joy sign as I dragged myself to bed. The sign remained lit, quietly reminding me that joy can persist even in the midst of chaos.

As the year progressed, I found solace in the soft light of the Joy sign. It was a reminder that joy never really goes away. The awareness of that made the challenges more bearable – the empty house after my youngest son’s move to college, the late nights spent solving business problems, and the unpredictable nature of my creative career.

Towards the end of 2023, I sat in my office, illuminated by Joy’s warm glow, I reflected on the joys and challenges of the past year. Gratitude filled my heart for the gift I had received years ago, now offering a new understanding and a shift in attitude.

Then came the humorous twist in January. One morning, passing by my office, I noticed the Joy sign was still on. A chuckle escaped me as I realized the top part of the letter ‘J’ had dimmed. The sign now looked more like a ‘joj’ (Croatian for ‘oy-vey’ lol).

In that moment, it hit me – even joy needs balance. The burnout of the sign served as a reminder that joy, like everything else, requires moderation. I giggled and teared up simultaneously, appreciating the valuable lesson.

So, as I begin this new year, I’m making a conscious effort to create more space for rest and self-care. The Joy sign taught me that joy, when left on constantly, can transform into ‘oy.’

It doesn’t need to be constantly plugged in to be there. Just like we don’t need to constantly feel engaged with the feeling and the experience of joy for it to remain there.

My Joy sign needs moments of recharge to stay vibrant. To experience joy we need downtime, moments of stillness, and rest.

What are your thoughts on Joy?

The decision to take off from work for the remainder of the year, and until the second week of January, left me with a sense of unease. Even on vacations, I’d still write my weekly newsletter and this time I wanted to drop all activities with a deadline. With my sons back home, I craved the simple joys of cooking for them, setting a table, and relishing in the nourishment derived not just from food but from every shared moment.

Amidst the holiday preparations, I recognized the need for rest.. 2023 was a big year. I traveled a lot, taught extensive online courses, supported my sons through life transitions, and checked off many ‘bucket list’ goals (or as I like to call them, ‘dreams come true’). The need for rest became apparent.

Hearing the words “Slow down to speed up” felt like the universe supported my decision. LOL

Creating space before plunging into another experience is essential. Just as we clean up the kitchen after a grand meal and allow time for digestion before we cook another.

Slowing down helps our hearts and souls get nourished alongside our bodies and minds

Have you ever found yourself lingering around the Christmas tree after the guests had left? Or leave the wrappings on the floor a little longer, cherishing the fleeting moments, knowing that soon those little hands that unwrapped the presents and made the mess would soon venture elsewhere. If you have, you’ll know what it feels like to create space and process before starting up again.

In the pursuit of personal growth, read, learn, and expand your mind, but also grant it the break it deserves.

Breathe. Sometimes, doing nothing is the most meaningful act.

Just be still for a bit longer.

So, here are some of my thoughts about the power behind “Slowing down to speed up.”

Journey at your own pace. In a world that constantly rushes us, pressuring us to set intentions, make resolutions for the new year, and dream up the next big thing, remember to take time. It’s your journey, you make the timetable.

Create space. By slowing down, we allow our nervous system to bring balance and equilibrium so our endeavors are not fueled by urgency but by thoughtful and sustainable choices. By taking time to reflect and rejuvinate, we gain clarity to see where we want to go next.

Slow down deliberately and become more mindful. Mindfulness enables us to savor the richness of each moment, derive deeper nourishment from our experiences, and cultivate meaningful connections.

Celebrate this moment. Find abundance in the very moment you are experiencing. Even if it’s challening. We make changes by making choices in the moments we are in. Be present in each.

The flight was long and crowded, my luggage got delayed for two days, it took me longer than usual to get over jet lag, and I feel most grateful for the tools I learned through my Wellness Coaching training – especially the practice of making space for Silence (aka having a consistent meditation practice). 

In Croatia, I got to perform with some of the region’s top musicians, and I got to spend time with a few artists who live such beautiful lives – peaceful, fulfilling, and with a lot of room for creativity and that slow process of allowing inspiration to become music and story… 

They moved me to the core, stirring new depths of emotion and renewing my courage to keep expanding in love.

On the other hand, I noticed the constant noise that those who aren’t comfortable with silence create – which then adds to the anxiety, stress, and even hurt. There were a few situations in which I couldn’t answer the question I was asked without being interrupted. Lol. Once, I even stopped the conversation and asked them if anyone was really interested in hearing my answer, or if they asked me only to hear themselves speak. lol. 

But I understand…

People are uncomfortable with silence and all that silence brings – the possibility that someone else has something to say that may hurt us (hurt our ego); the awareness of how we feel in our bodies and in our hearts; and the emotions that we suppress or try to ignore.

In the quiet, we begin to hear our thoughts louder than the noise around us, and we get a chance to notice how our thoughts make us feel.

For example, if someone interrupts us, we may think ‘how rude of them’ and feel ignored, disrespected, or angry. Without noticing or processing what happened, we end up holding onto that emotion and carrying it around until it bursts out in a situation completely unrelated to it. We may yell at our kids for closing the door too loudly or leaving a pair of socks on the floor when we could have just asked them nicely.

When we spend time in silence (in practicing meditation), we become able to create tiny pockets of quiet where we can notice what we think. When we get interrupted, we know to pause, notice our thoughts, and choose to think ‘I’m curious what’s behind their need to interrupt’ or ‘It’s ok if they aren’t interested in what I have to say. I’m not going to take that personally’ instead of reacting emotionally. This then creates space for us to notice how we feel and enables us to process our emotions. 

Practicing meditation – and spending time in silence over the past 13 years, has been the most powerful gift.

It’s why I was able to be present during my trip, enjoy it, and give my best – through many meetings, media appearances, and performances. Even though I had an intense schedule, because of this practice, I was able to stay balanced and give my body/mind the rest it needed to function properly (even if I only had small pockets of time to rest). 

And yes, a part of the balance is to come back home and enjoy the peace before I go back out to work. 

This experience has been so powerful, and I am even more motivated to offer it as a Wellness Coach!

Currently, I’m working on two different courses – one that I facilitate as a trainer for Wellness Coaches at the program accredited by the International Coaches Federation, and one that I am taking at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition and Chopra Center that will prepare me to sit for the exam with the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches. 

I even got invited to make a presentation for the International Coaching Federation titled “How Music Enhances Core Competencies in Coaching” on November 15! This is a huge honor for me… 

If you – or someone you know – are interested in Wellness Coaching (as a client or a coach), sign up for my email list – I send links with more information each Saturday morning.

Until then, enjoy some peace and quiet. Watch the leaves fall gently to the ground and just observe – without judgment or analyzing. 

And join us for meditation each weekday at 7:30 a.m. – a great way to develop a practice!

The fall season means watching the zucchini and squash vines dry out and gardens become bare. It means pickling peppers and cucumbers for the chilly months ahead. It means watching the world around us and being reminded of the cycles of beginnings and endings in our own lives, and how we work so hard to preserve those precious moments, just like sun-dried tomatoes in those tiny jars. 

So, how’s your fall treating you, and what transitions are you going through?

This is the season to be a bit more mindful and create some extra space for yourself. With these changes, our bodies can get a tad out of balance, which isn’t great for our immune systems.

Eat well and pay attention to what your body needs, and how you consume your meals. Destress. Notice. Prepare your mind, your heart, and your body for the winter. 

Take longer walks and breathe deeper. Enjoy the sunshine. 

I’m going to try to do the same. Last week was a challenge for me, and I’m going to need your extra prayers as I gear up for my trip to Croatia next Sunday.

Here’s what happened: Last Saturday, I was using a brand-new paring knife, thinking it was not as sharp as it seemed, and whoops, I sliced off the tip of my finger. This little accident is teaching me so much, and it’s shedding light on some of my patterns that I’ll need help with as I dive into these next few weeks.

Here are some takeaways that might resonate with you:

1. Don’t underestimate the things/ events/ relationships/ projects that are new to you. They might come with surprises that might hurt you. Be vigilant and mindful.

2. Stop the bleeding and nurture your wounds – the ones on your body, but more so the emotional ones. If you are already going through an emotional time, be extra gentle with your heart. Reach out to friends, they will help you process, heal, AND grow in love through it. 

3. You have ten fingers with which you can do a lot of things. Some of those things you can do with nine fingers too. It’s okay to go the extra mile even when you are hurt, but it’s also okay to set healthy boundaries and let others walk that mile for you. Even if that means you might not get exactly where you planned or desired to be. 

4. Let go of expectations. Making a perfect breakfast doesn’t have to look exactly how you have it in your mind. Holding to expectations might create just enough of a distraction where you make a mistake and lose a part of yourself (and sometimes it might even be more than a finger cut). 

5. Don’t blame the sharp and pokey things in your life for your troubles. Focus on the gentleness and spaciousness of grace. 

6. Don’t constrict your heart and mind under pressure; expand. When faced with the impossible, don’t contract; open up. Embrace love over fear. It’ll reveal creative solutions and bring you peace. Fear, doubt, pain, and hurt ego will want you to constrict – but there you won’t see all the beautiful creative solutions – you’ll only see a bleeding finger.

I played my songs with only one finger in the left hand and I noticed how the chords I was playing in this new way sounded more open and spacious, making more sound and not less. 

7. Do your best and allow others to do their best too. Sometimes all you can do is to let the finger heal on its own – there is nothing more to be done. And sometimes you’ll find yourself really frustrated because someone else’s best will not feel like your best. Go back to 4. Let go of expectations. 

Breathe, go for a walk, notice the beautiful Fall around you, and know that all is well. No matter what, know that you are loved and supported. The bleeding will stop, and the pain will subside, even if you end up without a fingerprint (whoa there is such a deep metaphor here… lol). You are still whole  

I recently listened to an excellent episode of “No Small Endeavor” with William Paul Young, the author of the New York Times best-selling novel “The Shack”,  where he talked about operating from a place of love rather than fear. Check it out if you get the chance. 

Alright, I’m off to practice my songs for the concert and give my finger a rest! Send me some good vibes for these preparations, and please hold a vision of me expanding in love (and setting good healthy boundaries) every step of the way. 

In the midst of life’s whirlwinds, I’ve uncovered a set of essential strategies that have helped me stay grounded and maintain my overall well-being. Today, I want to share these strategies with you, with the hope that they resonate and offer guidance on your own journey towards wellness.

1. Breathe, Expand, and Embrace It all starts with a simple act: breathing deeply. In the face of challenging situations, I’ve learned to lift my chin, roll my shoulders back, and allow my chest to expand. This conscious expansion creates space for my heart to grow, rather than constrict. It’s a reminder that even in the most trying times, we can find room for growth and resilience.
2. The Power of Meditation My daily meditation practice has become my rock, my sanctuary amidst life’s chaos. It connects me with my inner self, reassuring me that I am not alone in this journey. It reminds me that my strength doesn’t solely come from within but is derived from the infinite source of love we know as God’s love. Plus, there’s something incredibly soothing about starting the day with a community of like-minded souls. If you’re curious, you’re welcome to join us – it’s free!
3. Lessons from Luna: Take Time to Eat in Peace An unexpected lesson from my furry companion Luna came during a long-distance road trip. I packed snacks for both of us, assuming it would make the journey more enjoyable. However, Luna, being a dog, had other plans. She was too excited by the surroundings to eat. This experience made me reflect on how humans and dogs are not naturally designed to eat while in motion. It’s a reminder that our bodies don’t digest optimally when we’re in a high-alert state. Just as Luna’s behavior was affected by the excitement of the journey, so too can our bodies be impacted by travel. Traveling, especially for emotional reasons, can have a profound effect on our well-being. Luna’s antics reminded me why we, as humans, take time to set beautiful tables, use pretty serving dishes, and adorn them with flowers and candles. It’s a signal to our bodies that all is well, allowing our parasympathetic nervous system to take over and promote digestion.
4. Grieving and Letting Go While visiting Hilton Head, a place filled with cherished family memories, I allowed myself to grieve moments that could never be reclaimed. This act of acknowledgment and release is a vital part of processing change and growth. Sometimes, to move forward, we must first honor what’s behind us.
5. Embrace Unleashing Luna’s exuberant romp on the beach taught me a valuable lesson about setting myself free. Letting go of fear and inhibitions, even for a moment, can be incredibly liberating. As Luna leaped with boundless excitement, I realized that I, too, needed to release certain fears and embrace new seasons in life. I decided to unleash Luna, and she responded by leaping three feet into the air with sheer joy. She was too afraid of the vast ocean to wander far, and we played fetch with a ball. Eventually, I sat down, and Luna joined me. It struck me that perhaps I needed a bit of unleashing in my own life. As I whispered to Luna, “It’s going to be a good new season,” I felt a sense of hope and renewal. When we returned to the car, the rain began to fall. Luna sought shelter in the back seat, and I lingered for a moment. I needed to release some of the heaviness that had settled in my chest. So, I lifted my chin, closed my eyes, and allowed the rain to mix with my tears. It felt liberating, like shedding my fear of getting wet. Interestingly, the rain stopped after just 90 seconds, much like the heaviness in my chest. I couldn’t help but smile, realizing that emotions, too, dissipate if we don’t hold onto them.

In the grand tapestry of life, wellness isn’t about perpetually feeling good; it’s about feeling everything – experiencing the full spectrum of life without resistance. It’s about listening to our bodies, our hearts, and our spirits. It’s about adapting to the seasons of life, whether that involves embarking on new adventures or simply sitting down to share a meal with loved ones.

Wellness is the harmony of breathing deeply, running free like Luna, and always returning to a place of inner peace and self-acceptance.

Thank you for accompanying me on this journey of self-discovery and wellness. May you find your unique path to well-being, embracing each moment along the way.

And if you ever need support or someone to breathe with you, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our Meditation Mornings are always open and welcoming – free for all who seek solace and connection.

In a world often consumed by labels, roles, and societal expectations, it’s good to take a step back and ask ourselves a fundamental question: “Who am I?” It will guide us on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I recently had the opportunity to explore this question while teaching a wellness coaching class that delved into the concept of the Layers of Life—a holistic approach to well-being encompassing the mind, body, and spirit.

My journey into self-discovery goes back to my early childhood, where I was exposed to the musings of my paternal grandfather—a natural philosopher trapped in the world of fixing tube television sets, radio transistors, and amplifiers. His constant refrain of “I think, therefore I am” left a lasting impression on my young mind. Although I may have initially misinterpreted his words as a child, it was during those moments of contemplation that I began to form my own understanding of identity. I sing, therefore I am, I’d say to my friends, half-jokingly and half-seriously – feeding my attachment to singing, and avoiding knowing who I was without it. 

Change is the catalyst for personal growth.

Back to my wellness coaching class, where we discussed the concept of change as the catalyst for personal growth.

Change often involves shedding old habits, beliefs, or even identities, and it all starts with a decision—an internal shift towards something new. However, to begin this transformative journey, we must first cultivate self-awareness.

Cultivating self-awareness and opening ourselves to change is challenging and often painful – that’s why often we hear Ignorance is bliss. And that’s why many people would rather stay in the old identity, habit, or belief than go through the pain of the metamorphosis.

However, self-awareness serves as the compass that points us toward the aspects of ourselves we wish to change and the parts we need to release. It’s in this process that we begin to grasp a fundamental truth: in the process, we don’t lose who we are, we become more of who we are created to be.

Letting go of certain aspects of ourselves doesn’t diminish who we are or take away from us, but rather paves the way for us to expand into our best and most whole selves.

As we delve deeper into self-awareness, we come to realize that we are not merely our physical bodies. Our bodies are the vessels through which we experience life as human beings. We are not our thoughts and feelings either; instead, we are the thinkers of our thoughts and the feelers of our emotions. Our minds are not the masters; we are the ones who hold the reins. Our true essence resides in something that science struggles to identify—often referred to as the soul, spirit, conscience, or our essential, true self.

Once we start living from this essential self, the roles we play, the beliefs we hold, and the habits we maintain no longer define us entirely. Yes, I may be a mother, but motherhood is just one facet of who I am. Similarly, I’m a singer and an artist, but I’m not solely defined by these roles. In the past, I believed that if I didn’t sing for two weeks, I’d wither away. However, this perception crumbled, leading to a breakthrough when I realized that my identity was not confined to these external expressions.

We are not solely defined by our roles and what we do.

That same day, I sat with my son Blais after dinner, and we talked. He is starting college next week and he pondered how to navigate the pressure of choosing a lifelong path and the fear of falling short of expectations. In response, I asked him about his “why”—the inner motivation, the spark that ignites passion.

Blais explained that his spark was the joy he felt when he did something he loved and witnessed the smiles it brought to others’ faces. I reminded him that, as he embarked on his college journey, nurturing that spark was what’s most important. The “what” and “how” would reveal themselves; the spark would lead the way.

The spark ignites passion and leads our way. It stays with us through the different roles we fill and the different work we do.

That spark is what makes us feel alive, guiding us toward activities and roles that allow us to fulfill our Purpose—with a capital ‘P’—to carry love, light, and life into the world, and our unique purpose—with a small ‘p’—whether that’s through art, healing, nurturing, or any other path that resonates with our innermost being.

Get quiet and ask your heart: Who am I?

I invite you to ponder the question, “Who am I?” Recall those moments in your life when your spark blazed brightly—whether it was yesterday or years ago. The spark knows no timeline; it can manifest at any moment. It’s the key to unveiling your true self and embarking on a journey of self-discovery, purpose, and fulfillment.

Hajde da ludujemo, Smokvica, Dvije zvjezdice, Moj mali je opasan… These are just some of the hits of the 1990s that we still like to dance to today. They were sung by Tatjana Cameron (nee Matejas) Tajči, at that time the biggest teen star in our region. Although she decided to continue her life and career on the American continent, for many she remained a favorite star in the pop music sky.

It is not surprising that we were especially pleased with the news that the legendary singer will hold a long-awaited concert in Zagreb in October. It was an excellent reason for our conversation in which, along with the announced show, we also remembered the beginning of Tajci’s career, performances at the Eurovision Song Contest, life in Nashville, and plans for the future.

• The Zagreb audience will finally have the opportunity to listen to you in a concert that will be held at the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall on October 11. How do you feel about the concert? What have you prepared for the Zagreb audience and what do you expect from the concert?

I am very much looking forward to the concert and I am honored by Prof. Primorac’s invitation to produce this concert with the famous Israeli stage artist Moti Giladi. As it is a celebration of the 75th anniversary of the state of Israel and 26 years of diplomatic relations between Croatia and Israel, the concert will be held in English and Croatian.

Our goal is to evoke musically the spirit of togetherness, hope, optimism, and love, which is the core of the friendships and support between our two countries. So the repertoire consists of beautiful songs such as Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World, Somewhere Over the Rainbow made famous by Judy Garland, You’ve Got a Friend in Me by singer-songwriter Carole King, and fun Moti performances that will make the audience laugh a little. Of course, Moti and I will perform our Eurovision song contest hits – my Let’s Go Crazy and his Yavo Yom, we will also present my song Window in the Wall, recorded by Olivia Newton-John with her daughter Chloe Lattanzi – and all this accompanied by the Croatian Radio and Television Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maestro Alan Bjelinski, arranged by Ante Gelo and Jim Gray (from Nashville).

Of course, I won’t miss the opportunity to sing my favorite ballad Dvije zvjezdice (transl. Two Stars) with the symphony – which will actually be a dream come true for me.

TAJCHI AND MOTI GILADI

• Is there a single announcing the concert coming out soon? What exactly is it about and who all participated in the production?

The song, a duet I recorded with Moti is called Holding Out My Hand. Grammy award winner Steve Leslie and I wrote the song specially for this concert. The song is about a simple gesture that we really need today – an outstretched hand and the will to listen to each other, to replace pointing the finger with which we judge, object, or impose our opinions.

Throughout the writing process, Steve and I felt that this song had to be written – just in the form it was in. There have been a lot of those goose-bumps-raising moments, in which you can feel the presence of creative energy that comes from something that is much bigger than us – we are just here to take it over and decode it.

The song was produced musically by the brilliant young musician and producer Scott Mulvahill who spent many years as the music director of Ricky Skaggs’ band, played with Lauren Daigle as her special guest on tours, and is an amazing solo artist. Scott and I collaborated in the past – writing two songs for my solo album Awaken – Keep Your Head Up (The Croatian version is Head Lift) and the English version of the song Mojoj Majci – You’ve Never Left My Mind. I was blessed to have Nashville’s top musicians (some from Lauren’s band) track the song. We recorded live string orchestra at an incredible studio in:ciite with seven times Grammy Award winning producer and engineer Danny Duncan. Strings were orchestrated by Jim Gray whose recent project was a piece for the launch of Artemis performed by cellist Yo Yo Ma and the Philadelphia Philharmonic Orchestra. [I’m both humbled and so incredibly honored to have all these amazing people put their talent – and their beautiful hearts into this song.]

TAJCHI AND MOTI GILADI

The song will be released at the beginning of September by Croatia Records, where we recorded Moti’s vocals when we were both in Zagreb this summer – with another amazing sound engineer and awesome human Goran Martinac.

• What are your plans for the future? Is there a chance that we might sing your old hits together in the near future, but also some new ones, or is your plan to continue a successful career exclusively in America?

Personally, it would be a great joy for me to sing old hits with the local audience and share that good energy that has been connecting us all these years. I am also looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with excellent Croatian and regional musicians and to play together – purely from the heart and for the soul.

It would be a great joy for me to sing old hits with the local audience

• Fame is something that many aspire to, especially young people today with the advent of social networks. Your musical talent was recognized when you were not even in your twenties. Did your celebrity status still help you when you decided to continue your education and career in America, where you were unknown? What would you say to young people who dream of fame?

Fame and success are not the same thing. Fame must be a side effect, not a goal. When we do something that fulfills us, through which we bring something good into the world around us, and when our goal through this work is to grow as a person and lift others up (instead of clawing our way up at any cost), then we recognize success in a deeper way that has nothing to do with fame, or likes, nor with comments or even with material abundance.

The celebrity status I enjoyed in the region helped me so much in a way that I realized very early on what I did not want in life and what was really important to me. I quickly felt the loneliness, emptiness, and insecurity in which a lot of celebrities find themselves because we do not have the tools or awareness of what we are and who we are outside of our passion for what we do – and because of fame that puts us constantly under the scrutiny of the audience. Perhaps some do not think deeply about these existential issues, but I was fascinated from a very early age by the questions of who I really am and what is the purpose of my life.

When I came to America to study, I hid my career success because I wanted to be treated like any other student. I wanted to progress because of my work and discipline, not because of the status.

Fame must be a side effect, not a goal.

• How do you see the beginnings of your career today? Is there anything you would like to say to your younger self and would you change anything?
  

If we had life coaches or psychotherapists at the time, I would definitely recommend her to work with some of them. But, no, I wouldn’t change anything – I believe every step on our path is important – they brought us where we are today. In everything, we can find beauty and gifts, messages that we receive and that build us up, that help us to grow in love.

• What beautiful memories tie you to the beginning of your music career?

The beginnings of my musical career is singing at the Children’s ZagrebFest in 1974 – in the Vatroslav Lisinski Hall, where my mom brought me a skirt at the last minute sewn by my great-aunt. Performances with dad’s band – on Rab where we all hung out (children of musicians from the band) and enjoyed carefree summers. Zagreb Youth Theatre and the musical U koga se uvrglo to dijete. Solfeggio classes with professor Nadia Miletić at the music school in Gundulićeva Street. Noc od kristala, a song with which I won the third audience award and the award for the best debutant at Zagreb Fest 1987. Orange dress sewn by Danijela Car (Linea Exclusive), which my mom and sister Sanja took by bus to Zadar for the performance at Jugovizija. A lot of good memories tie me to the beginnings of my music career.

• Many still remember your performance in the Eurovision Song Contest today. How do you view this experience with detachment?

I was very brave. It was a challenge to dance on this (rather slippery) plexiglass stage in heels and give my all to the song – all under enormous pressure because I wanted to justify the trust of the audience that supported me so strongly. Meeting Toto Cotugno will forever remain in my memory. He gave me a red rose and invited me to come to Italy and record with him. My grandmother on my dad’s side was from around Trieste and loved him very much. I knew all his songs both because of Nana and because of my Dad who performed them with his band. I’m sorry he left us.

• You recently presented your autobiographical book (not)Broken in Zagreb. Does writing represent a release of some sort for you? How hard was it for you to be so vulnerable in front of your readers?

(un)Broken  is my fifth published book and the first one translated into Croatian. I like to write. I always wrote – diaries, poems, and essays, I loved doing essays for school. Writing for me is both a creative process and processing information and emotions. As I have been writing a blog for many years (I also wrote for Huff Post and for the Sarajevo magazine Svjetlo Rijeci), I found that sweet spot where I can ‘bare’ myself, but also feel protected and safe.

Through coaching and working with women who have gone through tremendous trauma, I have learned how important it is to work on myself to avoid being retraumatized by writing (it again causes us the trauma we write about). I wrote the book (un)Broken to someone who is in a similar situation and whom I approached with the intention of letting her know that she was not alone. (un)Broken has intentionally a lot of empty space for the reader to fill with his story and experiences.

I learned how important it is to work on yourself.

• What are you particularly proud of in your career?

I am proud that I persevered and did not let myself be discouraged. I’m proud of raising three kids with my music that my late husband and I produced. I’m proud of that we successfully toured with my concerts for 17 years, ran the whole business and managed a whole crew of people. I am proud that I did not wait for others to invite me to perform, but would create a concert, play, or a conceptual musical event myself, stage it, produce it and perform it. And what I’m most proud of is that I didn’t discourage my sons from embarking on creative careers. They have seen how art refines people, gives them inspiration and hope, and how art reminds them of the magic of life and joy that is available to us all when we open our hearts.

WITH SISTER SANJA.

• What do you enjoy when you have free time? What are the little joys of life that make you happy? Tell us about your current life in Nashville.

In my free time, I grow a garden. I have six beds of vegetables, spices, and flowers. I even have a grape that is originally from my late husband’s grandmother. I read books and belong to a book club where we discuss the read content. I love cooking and preparing nice dinners for family and friends. I volunteer at a women’s prison. I love walking with Luna who’s my golden doodle. I enjoy watching movies and series or sitting by the window and enjoying the peace.

• You’ve lived in the U.S. for a long time. Is there anything, besides family, that you’re missing from Croatia?

I miss people – mom, family, friends from high school, chance meetings in the city, coffees shared together. Hairdryer hairstyles, trips to Sljeme, and the smell of the sea.

TAJCHI AND MOTI GILADI

• Do you work as a mentor, among other things? Tell us more about what motivated you to do this and who are the young talents you work with?

In 2015, I attended a course for Holistic Life Coaches with the intention of learning to ask better questions to guests on the show about the life milestones I then produced and hosted, Waking Up in America. I really liked coaching so I continued with the certification. My first engagement was in a women’s prison where I actually realized how coaching can change people’s lives. The coach, unlike the mentor, does not advise but sees the client as a complete and creative person, so through questions and listening (and reflecting what the client is saying) the coach helps the client to come up with a solution. Through this process, the client also gains confidence in themselves and refreshes their abilities and creativity.

During the pandemic, I completed three more courses at the Chopra Center (Ayurveda lifestyle, Meditation and Well-being Coaching) and qualified for accreditation by the International Coaching Federation. I lead meditation every day, facilitate online courses, and work with individual clients – both Wellness Coaching and Career Coaching, and I love working with young talents as a mentor.

One thing I’m proud of is that I persevered and didn’t let myself be discouraged

• Your sister Sanja also achieved a successful career in America. Tell us more about it? Do you work professionally and what is Sanja doing right now?

Sanja is an extremely talented woman. A lot of people know her for her role as Myra Menka in the Disney movie Holes. She was also a featured singer on tour with the Transsiberian Orchestra, a guest star in a number of American series. He is currently writing music for the film.

We were always happy to collaborate on music projects and toured together. Before the pandemic, we did an excellent tour with a cabaret-style concert of American music that was so good that the agency kept sending us inquiries about what we were doing because such good reviews had never been heard before. We also have a new show Window in a Wall with which we will start touring in September 2024, and in which we have included several tamburitza acts (I hired tamburitza player Paula Poskon, and I gave myself the task of learning to play!). Sanya brings humor and her special energy into all this – in addition to being a really beautiful woman!

WITH SISTER SANJA.

• Do you have any professionally unfulfilled wishes?

I have unfulfilled desires that I am actively working on – to finish writing my extensive memoirs and establish contacts with musicians for some nice new projects. I want to sing more jazz songs in the next stage and learn jazz improvisation on piano. I also want to re-stage my play, the full-length musical My Perfectly Beautiful Life.

And, of course, Lisinski filled with wonderful arrangements, excellent music and a satisfied audience on October 11, and after that a series of concerts in Croatia

Photo: Promo, Private archive

BY: MARTINA PETROVIĆ

I cleaned out my email inbox this past week. While I was deleting hundreds of accumulated messages, I listened to one of my favorite podcasts: “No Small Endeavor.”

The guest on the show was Oliver Burkeman, the author of “Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals.” An insightful quote from his book caught my attention:

“The world is bursting with wonder, and yet it’s the rare productivity guru who seems to have considered the possibility that the ultimate point of all our frenetic doing might be to experience more of that wonder.”

Burkeman and the host, Lee C. Camp, delved into a fascinating topic – the cycle that we often find ourselves in when we efficiently tackle tasks, only to find ourselves filling the newly created space with even more tasks.

The conversation really got interesting when Camp brought up a concept from a previous interview with theologian Rebecca DeYoung. She presented a unique perspective on the concept of sloth, traditionally associated with laziness. Instead, she viewed sloth as inattention to more important matters – relationships, life’s little miracles, and the deeper meanings that shape our existence.

Burkeman chimed in with an intriguing insight from a Buddhist tradition, where busyness can be seen as a form of laziness. 

By constantly engaging in a flurry of activity, we might miss out on the profound act of simply being and appreciating the world around us.

This concept struck a chord with me. I closed the lid of my laptop and went for a walk. I thought of a time when I lived with Contemplative Carmelite Nuns in Alhambra, CA, and encountered the clash between their contemplative stillness and the modern drive for ceaseless productivity. It’s a delicate balance – finding room for both mindful presence and purposeful action. And that was 1997 – long before smartphones and the internet. 

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining productivity while making space for moments of wonder can be challenging, especially for those juggling parenting, work, and numerous commitments. With technology and entertainment at our fingertips, we often replace quiet contemplation with constant stimulation.

And then, suddenly, we realize that a substantial portion of our 4,000 weeks has slipped away.

Have we truly taken in the wonders? How often have we been inattentive to what truly matters, sacrificing balance for busyness?

The next morning, as I was reviewing materials for teaching my Wellness Coaching Course, I was reminded of the Ayurvedic approach to balancing everything in life – including nutrition. A satisfying meal is balanced and nourishing, a fulfilling life strikes a harmony between productivity and appreciation. As we fill our days with meaningful actions and pause to notice the miracles around us, we pave the way for deep satisfaction.

I’m curious to hear your thoughts on this delicate dance between productivity and wonder. How do you find your balance? Do you often catch yourself on the path of busyness or the path of contemplation/meditation? 

I was driving to Stormlight Pictures studio (the one my late husband Matthew founded with Logan Christopher who now runs it) to shoot footage for the music video of my new beautiful new song Holding Out My Hand (to be released in September 2023).

I had just left my hairstylists and on the outside, I was ready. 

On the inside, I was struggling. 

So much effort, energy, love, money, time, passion, work, faith… so much goes into creating these songs, these musical experiences – and each time in the process of creating, there is a moment in which the artist questions if it’s worth it…

Will it matter? Should we have invested all of this into something more secure and more tangible? Does the world really need this? If it’s not successful, how will we pay our bills? 

So before I pulled out of my hairstylist’s driveway, I took a deep breath and closed my eyes. I dipped into that silent space where I connect with the divine, with God, with the depths of my soul where I am grounded and centered, and guided.

Trust and detach from the outcome. Don’t question it. I have taken care of you before, I will do it again. Surrender. Trust. You don’t need to know why it matters, or why you are bringing this into the world. It’s been given to you to deliver and you are giving of yourself to do exactly that. 

I took another breath, exhaled gratitude, and opened my eyes. I shifted into driving gear and got back on the open road. 

When I turned the radio on, a music artist was saying these words (later I found the transcript of the show and copied the words down): 

“… the end of art is peace. And for me, that’s true … [on a] personal level that’s the feeling that you get this, this momentary feeling of just having made something. And that fulfillment is really where that sense of success comes from, of being able to continue to do that … that feels, that it still resonates with you and it’s honest and it feels right, and calling out into the world, that has to suffice sometimes, you know, because you can’t control how it’s received and if you have expectations of your joy, if your sense of self-worth is based on something else other than your own relationship to it, you’re gonna, you’re gonna get hurt, you know?”

I laughed out loud as my eyes welled up with emotion. All right, I get it. 

Keep calm and carry on. LOL

And remember to detach from all expectations.

That’s really where the end of art becomes peace – where we create and let it go and trust that somewhere, someone will benefit from it, in ways that won’t even be revealed to us. 

I see so many of you out there doing this… putting yourself out and delivering what the world needs – what YOU have been asked to deliver. 

For example, my friend Daniel Epstein has created an incredible collection of Portraits in Faith and is now exhibiting it in different spaces and communities. My friends Ante Gelo, Matej Mestrovic, and Alan Bjelinski in Croatia keep making beautiful music that touches people’s hearts and offers comfort. My friend and publisher Marijeta Matijas, tirelessly brings new writers and authors to readers. Pam is so incredibly creative, not just musically but also with beautiful visuals and encouraging words, and in really seeing others and reflecting back their beauty. John posts beautiful videos of West Virginia, David plays classic country music hits on his streams, my sister Sanya composes gorgeous music, Judy makes the most beautiful quilts, Jana decorates people’s worlds… ah… each of you creates a peace that someone needs. 

Without art – and each of us delivering it, we would miss out on human connection. Of experiencing the creativity that feeds our souls. We might not be able to heal the deep wounds without art. How else do we get to experience each other’s culture and history if not through art? 

And the financial piece, I don’t know… I believe there are still enough people out there who recognize the importance of art and will send you (the artist, the creator, the basket weaver, the healer, the gardener, the thinker, the teacher, the mother and father, the grandparent, etc) a tip, or a donation, a gift, or a basket of eggs that will sustain you through the challenging and dry times. 

And I know there are business people who help artists with creating opportunities and platforms (like Patreon) through which they can be supported. 

So… yes, keep calm, trust, and create art!

—

I can’t wait to share my song ‘Holding Out My Hand’ with you. You can watch the “Making of” process on my Patreon in the coming week. Enjoy the early release of the song and learn about all that goes into it!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Oh, and do practice meditation (being in that ‘Be Still and Know I am God’ place), listen to your soul’s guidance (it’s connected to its source), and create something beautiful today!

Love and hugs, 

Tajci