Meet Teresa Smith | Life Coach, Author, and Motivational Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Teresa Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Teresa, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Wow, work-life balance, it’s an ever-evolving dance in this digital age. I used to think I had it all figured out, but life had a gentle yet powerful way of nudging me back on track. You see, earlier this year, I hit a point where the scales tipped too far. I was hustling hard, juggling commitments left and right, until my body said, ‘Hold on, time for a pause.’

For four months, I was forced to step away, reassess, and reconnect with what mattered. It was a harsh lesson but a crucial one. I realized I had been neglecting the most important relationship, which was my relationship with myself.

Now, I see work-life balance as a goal and a daily commitment to self-care, mindfulness, and intentionality. It’s about cherishing not just the external successes but nurturing my inner self, too. I consciously check in with myself daily, ensuring I align with my core values and needs.

This journey has taught me that achieving balance isn’t about finding a static point but embracing constant adjustments. It’s a beautiful blend of pursuing my passions while honoring the need for rest and rejuvenation. And you know what? That realization has brought incredible richness and fulfillment to my professional and personal life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Reflecting on my career, I’m often reminded of Robert Burns’ words: ‘The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.’ My journey began with aspirations to work with traumatized children after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Psychology.

My path, however, took a surprising turn while working at the Clinical Research Unit at UNC Hospital. Working closely with patients battling various conditions taught me invaluable lessons about empathy and the intricate link between social and emotional well-being. These experiences shaped my belief in not judging others, which later became a cornerstone in my work with children facing mental health crises.

Moving into education counseling, I found myself in an alternative school, deeply connected with students whose life experiences influenced their behavior. Here, I began integrating counseling and coaching, fostering a transformative mindset.

My journey hasn’t been a straight line; it’s been marked by challenges and seemingly unrelated steps and learning from every stakeholder and employer along the way. But a chance encounter in an elevator with a former student, Sean, encapsulated the purpose behind my career’s twists and turns. Seeing Sean, now a responsible young man overcoming life’s challenges, affirmed why my career path unfolded as it did.

My brand is rooted in the unwavering belief that anything is possible. I share a story with Sean; we both have faced challenges, transcending societal labels and personal traumas. As an incest survivor who has conquered health obstacles and earned multiple degrees, I stand as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Through coaching, I advocate that the innate goodness in individuals outweighs the darker moments we might experience. It’s a belief that empowers individuals to make choices to break free from the definitions imposed by society or their past traumas. It’s about grabbing that parachute and deciding which side of the narrative they want to land.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Imagine a week-long escapade with my best friend—someone I met back in 1985 at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Our friendship is a testament to the beauty of accepting differences and cherishing what each brings to the friendship. With us, time doesn’t define the strength of our bond; it’s the unwavering support we share. So, if my BFF were in town, here’s our ultimate adventure itinerary:

Day 1: We’d start with a serene stroll through Duke Gardens in Durham, NC, savoring nature’s beauty with lunch at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club to fuel our day.

Day 2: Off to North Carolina Outer Banks! Explore the majestic lighthouses and indulge in the local cuisine, soaking up the coastal charm.

Day 3: A cultural day awaits! We’d explore the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, followed by a delightful lunch at Happy + Hale in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, NC.

Day 4: An early start to marvel at the grandeur of the Biltmore House in Asheville, NC, followed by a sumptuous dining experience at Bistro, Cedric’s Tavern, or The Dining Room on the estate.

Day 5: A leisurely drive back to Raleigh, relishing the memories and discussions sparked by our adventures while soaking in the scenic beauty along the way.

Day 6: The week wouldn’t be complete without a touch of art and music. Attending a mesmerizing performance at the North Carolina Opera perfectly culminates our memorable week.

Each spot on this itinerary isn’t just a place; it reflects our shared interests, values, and love for exploring diverse experiences. It’s a celebration of our friendship, where every moment is cherished, and every experience becomes a treasured memory.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This Shoutout fills me with gratitude, reflecting on the people who’ve shaped my journey. My heartfelt dedication goes to my incredible parents, the foundational architects of my success.

From the earliest days, I remember their unwavering support and guidance. They encouraged my education and societal contributions and instilled in me the belief that I could achieve anything. My mom and dad, a blend of strengths that formed an unbreakable bond, played pivotal roles in shaping my path.

My mother, a beacon of leadership and community involvement, introduced me to various youth groups where I honed skills that later became passions. Whether organizing events or speaking publicly, she planted the seeds of confidence and love within me.

On the flip side, my father stood firmly behind my academic pursuits. His support allowed me to explore immersive experiences that weren’t just about learning math and science but exploring diverse cultures. It was his ‘yes’ to my international travels that opened doors to my love for understanding different perspectives and cultures.

Reflecting on those experiences, I see how those seeds they planted blossomed into the person I am today. Their forward-thinking and nurturing have shaped not just my career but my worldview.

Amidst this incredible journey, there was a guiding light at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill—Dr. Donella Croslan. She saw potential in me when I was still figuring out my path. Her sage advice to embrace my uniqueness rather than compare myself to others has been a compass in my life. Her wisdom taught me to stay true to my values and passions, guiding my decisions and commitments. It is a mantra I carry into every commitment.

So, to my parents and Dr. Croslan, I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude. Their influence, love, and guidance have shaped my professional trajectory and instilled in me the belief that staying authentic to oneself is the ultimate key to success and fulfillment.

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