Aspire Higher: Inspiring Lessons from Karina Birch at AspiHer Women’s Event in Calgary

The recent AspiHer Women's Event in Calgary was nothing short of transformative, bringing together powerful women leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries under one roof. The event, centered around igniting inspiration and fostering confidence, featured an impactful talk from Karina Birch, CEO and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Soap Company. Known for her dedication to natural wellness, ethical entrepreneurship, and conscious leadership, Karina shared invaluable lessons drawn from her personal journey and professional successes. Her talk reminded us all of the importance of setting a strong morning routine and embracing confidence as a powerful tool to drive personal and professional growth.

Embrace Your Mornings: Why They Matter

One of Karina’s key messages was about the profound effect of a structured and intentional morning routine. "Your morning sets the tone for the rest of the day," she said, encouraging women to prioritize self-care, focus, and mindfulness before diving into the busyness of life. This habit, she explained, is particularly powerful for women balancing multiple roles and responsibilities.

"Don't act small," she urged, encouraging women to step into their fullest potential every day. Mornings, she believes, are the perfect time to do just that. By dedicating time to yourself at the start of each day, you create space to tap into your purpose, establish clarity, and build momentum to carry you through any challenges that arise.

Top Morning Strategies for Success and Confidence

1. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
   Karina advocates taking a few minutes each morning to quiet the mind and center oneself. Simple breathing exercises, meditation, or a mindful moment can reduce stress, enhance focus, and bring a sense of calm to even the busiest days. Try sitting in a quiet space, focusing on deep breaths, or simply being aware of the present moment without judgment.

2. Set an Intention for the Day
   Setting a daily intention can serve as a powerful reminder of what you want to achieve or embody throughout the day. Whether it’s “I will approach everything with confidence” or “I will prioritize my well-being,” a clear intention aligns your actions with your goals.

3. Move Your Body
   Physical activity in the morning boosts endorphins and releases stress, setting a positive tone for the day. You don’t need a strenuous workout—even a 10-minute stretch or a brisk walk can energize you and get your mind and body ready for the day ahead.

4. Plan with Purpose
   Karina also emphasized taking a few moments to jot down the top priorities for the day. By focusing on what truly matters, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed by minor distractions or less important tasks. A focused plan allows you to accomplish what’s most meaningful to you.

5. Practice Gratitude
   Starting each day with gratitude can shift your mindset to a positive space. Write down three things you’re thankful for, whether they’re small moments of joy or major accomplishments. This habit has been shown to improve mood and boost confidence by focusing on the positives in life.

Building Confidence: Karina’s Tips for Women in Business

Karina encouraged women to be unapologetic about their ambitions and strengths, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the AspiHer attendees. To help foster this confidence, she shared these additional insights:

• Know Your Worth: Recognize and honor your unique skills and experiences. Don’t shrink back to make others feel comfortable; instead, embrace your talents and contributions fully.

• Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Confidence grows when we challenge ourselves and succeed, even in small ways. Take on new projects, volunteer for leadership roles, or push yourself to learn something new—it all contributes to a stronger, more resilient sense of self.

• Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Karina emphasized the importance of connecting with like-minded women who encourage and inspire. Joining networks like AspiHer can provide a supportive community that fuels personal growth and ambition.

Final Takeaway: Don’t Act Small

Karina’s closing words at the AspiHer event left a lasting impression: "Don’t act small." As women, we sometimes feel the pressure to minimize our dreams or our presence. But it’s crucial to remember that every person’s voice, ambitions, and contributions matter. By setting a powerful morning routine, embracing confidence, and surrounding ourselves with supportive networks, we can build lives and businesses that reflect our truest potential.

The AspiHer Women’s Event was a reminder of the importance of uplifting one another and striving for greatness. Karina’s insights inspired attendees to elevate their daily routines and embrace a bold, intentional approach to life and business. As we take these lessons forward, may we all continue to aspire higher—together.