Inspiring Lives Magazine Spring 2017: Issue 4 | Page 51
Dresses Theodora James by Portia Brady, Jewerly by Sandie Grindel, Tux by Eva Dixon, and Makeup by
Kourtney Leech
How did she get those great people skills? Branas
credits growing up both Catholic and Jewish. “How
I was raised taught me about people,” she said with
a smile. “It allowed me to associate, gay or straight,
whatever their race. I paid attention to women, and I
have a greater appreciation of what women want.”
Branas considers herself “fun, optimistic, charismat-
ic” and “loyal to my friends and family.” She said she
doesn’t even tell herself “no.” Being able to describe
who she is at her core is part of what she said helped
her become the person she is today.
So, what advice would Branas give someone starting
a journey of change?
1. Take time to meditate. Use positive thinking ex-
ercises. Avoid words about how you look, and instead,
think about strengths, abilities, and skills. Do it daily
so it becomes a habit.
2. Cut out toxic people. Do not give them free
space in your brain. Push them aside because they are
only hurting you.
3. Take action for the life you want. Don’t let fear
hold you back, and don’t give up. “Sometimes there are
3,000 different paths to get to your goal. You may need
to walk many of those paths to get where you want to
be, so just take those steps,” she advises.
Branas turned 40 a few months ago, and she believes
this next decade will be filled with many avenues for
sharing her mission. She said, “I love helping people
find what they have to offer. I’m just getting started.” n
Get to know Branas at www.dwjphl.com.
Suzanne Hobbs is an international best-selling children’s
author, writer, and speaker. She is also the national media
spokesperson for the safe surrender of unwanted newborns
through the National Safe Haven Alliance. Connect with
her at www.suzannehobbs.com.
SPRING 2017
INSPIRING LIVES
51