Have you ever had one of those mornings where something small goes wrong, like burning your toast, and it sets the tone for your whole day? You might feel frustrated, irritated, or think, “Great, what else could go wrong?” But what if that burnt toast wasn’t just a random mishap, but a tiny nudge from the universe steering you away from something worse? Enter The Burnt Toast Theory.

What is the Burnt Toast Theory?

The Burnt Toast Theory is a mindset, a simple but powerful idea that suggests when something doesn’t go according to plan, no matter how big or small, it may actually be saving us from something worse or redirecting us toward something better. The name comes from the idea that if you burn your toast and have to make another one, that few minutes’ delay might have unknowingly helped you avoid a car accident, a bad encounter, or something you’ll never even know about.

It’s not about superstition, but about perspective. It’s a reminder that delays, disruptions, and disappointments might not be punishments or failures. They might be protection or preparation.

The Psychology Behind It

At its core, the Burnt Toast Theory is a cognitive reframing tool. Instead of seeing inconveniences as purely negative, it invites us to reframe them as potential blessings in disguise. Psychology tells us that the way we interpret events significantly impacts how we feel and respond. By adopting this mindset, we can reduce anxiety, frustration, and the spiral of negative thinking.

It’s similar to the concept of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), challenging unhelpful thoughts and replacing them with more constructive interpretations. Believing that “things are working out for me, even when it doesn’t feel like it right now” creates a sense of trust and calm in uncertain moments.

Real-Life Examples

• Missed a flight? Maybe you avoided a stressful situation or an unforeseen problem.
• Didn’t get that job you wanted? It could be because a better, more fulfilling opportunity was waiting down the line.
• Your project got delayed? It might end up being more successful because of the extra time and clarity gained.

While we may not always see the immediate “reason” for the burnt toast moment, the theory gives us permission to let go of the need for control and perfection.

Why It Helps Us Feel Better

1. Restores a sense of meaning: When things don’t go our way, we often feel powerless. The Burnt Toast Theory helps us believe there’s purpose even in the chaos.
2. Reduces stress: Instead of reacting with anger or panic, we shift to a mindset of acceptance and curiosity.
3. Cultivates resilience: Seeing setbacks as setups for something better makes us more adaptable and emotionally strong.
4. Builds trust in timing: It reminds us that not everything needs to be figured out right away. Sometimes, life’s reroutes are necessary.

How to Practice It

• Pause and reframe: When something goes wrong, ask, “What if this is actually working for me?”
• Reflect on past experiences: Think of times when something didn’t work out, but led to something better.
• Stay open: Embrace detours as part of the journey rather than deviations from the plan.
• Practice gratitude: Even if the toast is burnt, be thankful for the lesson or the unseen protection.

In Conclusion

The Burnt Toast Theory won’t stop life’s challenges from happening, but it can change the way we respond to them. It’s a comforting reminder that not everything is supposed to go smoothly and that’s okay. Sometimes the burnt toast is just toast. But sometimes, it’s the universe saving us in ways we may never fully understand. And that thought alone can make us breathe a little easier on even the most chaotic days.

So next time something small (or big) doesn’t go your way, just smile and say, “Maybe that burnt toast just saved my life.”

There are some people who radiate positivity, purpose, and passion for life. Lence Naumovski is one of them. A devoted wife, proud mother, and now a visionary stepping into the world of innovation and wellness, her story is one of love, growth, and reinvention.

Recently, Lence and her husband Tony celebrated an incredible milestone, 30 years of marriage, marking their anniversary with a beautiful trip through Europe.

Their love story continues to blossom, mirrored by the joy of their three daughters, two of whom recently tied the knot, while their youngest, Paris, is chasing her Hollywood dreams as a rising actress who just turned 21. “Family means everything to me,” Lence shares. “I love bringing people together, celebrating life’s moments, and spreading good energy wherever I go.”

But Lence’s journey is not just about family, it’s also about forward-thinking innovation. Always drawn to helping others and staying at the forefront of transformation, she has now embraced an exciting new opportunity that merges technology, beauty, and wellness. By combining AI and DNA-based assessments through a groundbreaking new app, this project aims to revolutionise the Beauty, Health, and Wellness industries. What makes it even more remarkable is the collaboration, a partnership between global tech giant Infosys and NSE, one of the world’s leading brands in anti-aging and wellness. Together, they launched a cutting-edge technology platform to market wellness products in India. 

Lence is now on a mission to connect with like-minded visionaries who are ready to embrace innovation and create meaningful impact. “This isn’t just business, it’s about being part of something that can truly transform lives,” she says. Her passion for positive change and her zest for life make her an inspiring example of how we can all evolve, dream bigger, and open ourselves to new possibilities, no matter where we are in life’s journey.

To connect with Lence and explore this groundbreaking venture, reach out and be part of the change she’s helping create. You can email her at lencenaumovski@bigpond.com

By Jacqueline Koloski

(https://www.connectingwithjacqueline.com/)

This month, I want to explore something that many of us experience: stopping ourselves from seeing an idea through because we don’t see results quickly enough, or not seeing the results we expected. Have you done this before? I know I have. The thing is time will continue and life will continue on and before you know it, it could be 6 months, 2 years or 5 years later and you think to yourself: “I should have started that thing I was going to. If I had, who knows what different course my life would have taken.” Getting started on your dreams and goals requires action to gain momentum. It takes movement and consistency even if you don’t see results straight away. 

Remember that idea that lights you up inside, one that brings joy, excitement, and maybe even a little fear?  Did you take action toward it, or did you quietly set it aside? If you haven’t taken action, it’s worth pausing to ask yourself, why? Could there be a belief sitting quietly underneath, holding you back from bringing that idea to life?

Take a moment now and think of one idea you’ve had. It could be a business idea, a creative spark, a personal project, a career shift, or even a travel dream. Picture it right there in front of you. Now, take a deep breath. Look inward, into that space of knowing, your intuition and gently ask: “Why didn’t I do that? Why didn’t I take action? Why didn’t I keep going? What stopped me?”

There’s no need for judgment here. This is about gentle awareness and acknowledging that there may be a belief beneath the surface quietly shaping your choices. Once you see it, you have the power to change it. I’ve been reflecting on the many ideas I’ve had, I;ve started but never completed, and it suddenly became so clear: “I was waiting to see results before I fully committed.” Crazy right! 

I needed proof that if I do the steps and take action on my idea, dream, project or creative idea before continuing or before even starting. This unconscious belief has quietly held me back more than once. Yet, this awareness feels like a precious gift. It’s allowed me to see the belief, name it, and choose to release it. My inner world feels lighter for it and freer. We all have beliefs running through every part of our lives. Bringing them to light gives us the chance to shift them, to realign with who we truly are and what we’re here to create.

If there’s an idea you would love to bring to life, here are some reflective questions to help you uncover what might be holding you back:

How do I feel about this idea? Joyful? Scared? Both?

Do I feel any excitement about it? Does my heart expand at the thought of doing this?

If I took action on this idea, what would that look like? How much time or energy would it require, realistically?

When I think about this idea, what beliefs arise? (For example: I don’t have time…I don’t have funds…Other people are already doing this…I don’t know how.)

What results am I hoping for with this idea?

If I knew this idea would bring the results I wanted, would I do it? Why or why not?

These questions may seem simple, yet there’s power in their simplicity. When we start anything new we start with one small step and when we are consistent, we then  build momentum which helps us to keep going. Eventually we will see results from the steps we take. Trust the process. Start today, start right where you are: look within, see the belief that is holding you back, acknowledge it and take that first step. You got this.

“Every belief you uncover is an invitation to expand. What you bring to light, you can transform.”

Meet our new member, the dynamic Dishaa Jain, founder of Envisyo (https://envisyo.ai), a company transforming how businesses operate through the power of Digital and AI solutions. Dishaa is redefining efficiency and innovation in the business world. At Envisyo, she and her team create intelligent systems that work around the clock, answering customer queries, processing requests, and booking appointments seamlessly. Her mission is simple yet profound: to help businesses do more with less by giving them back their most valuable resource, time. 

With her sharp entrepreneurial spirit and forward-thinking approach, Dishaa is helping companies embrace the future with confidence and ease. Her story is one of passion, innovation, and purpose, a perfect blend of technology and human insight.

We recently enjoyed interviewing her. 

Q. What inspired you to start Envisyo.ai, and how did you identify the need for AI solutions like chatbots and voice assistants specifically for SMEs?

A. I have been in digital transformation since 2018. I graduated with a Computer Science degree. I have been in technology for decades now. In Australia alone, I have implemented $50Mil+ in combined program value on large scale digital transformation serving Australians especially in healthcare. 

It was 10 PM, when I received a WhatsApp message from my Beauty therapist. She was booking an appointment. Long story short, she was booking someone else’s appointment with me. Apparently, she forgot who that customer was. Two problems here: 1) Bad & delayed customer experience. Worse she forgot who that customer was. 2) She was booking appointments at 10 PM instead of spending time with her family or having some ‘me time’. Spontaneously, I told her you need an AI Receptionist, we laughed then, but when I implemented one, it not only gave her time back, but excelled in customer experience. Her customers now book appointments instantly while she is busy serving her current customer. She now boasts about having an AI Receptionist that works 24/7.

Artificial Intelligence has been available for years, however over the last couple of years it has opened significant opportunities for Small/Medium and Non-profit Organisations and that’s when I knew that this technology can be a real benefit. The Chatbots and AI Voice Assistants can be implemented as your business companion especially for the Solo-entrepreneurs. You can now have a Chatbot with your tone and branding, answering questions and booking appointments with your customers. One of the biggest advantages is that it gives your business a presence  24/7. Imagine having the ability for a customer to book an appointment at 3 AM for your services. 

Q. Many small and medium businesses still see AI as something “complex” or “expensive.” How does Envisyo.ai simplify and make AI accessible for them?

A. That is very true! Envisyo.ai believes in solving customer problems. It’s not a one size fits all strategy. Rather, we work with customers and understand which solution is going to maximise benefits for their client. Envisyo educates customers ensuring responsible and customer centric implementations. We make sure that the entire customer journey is seamless and beneficial for our clients. In many cases the ROI is covered within 6 months of implementation. Remember the time that you get back to is also a Return on Investment (ROI). 

Q. With the rapid evolution of AI tools and technologies, how do you stay ahead of trends and ensure your solutions remain innovative and future-ready?

A. “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” – Mahatma Gandhi. I am passionate about learning and innovating. I keep myself well informed through continuous learning in my field of “Emerging Technology” by various courses, working with mentors and meeting and exploring with people in tech. My clients are my biggest motivation to continue innovating. They come up with requirements and push me to think of creative and innovative solutions. Personally, it has been a thrilling experience for me, something that has now become an addiction.

Q. Can you share a success story or case study where your AI solutions made a significant difference to a client’s business operations or customer experience?

A. Since I have already shared a success story, I will share a case study. 

A rapidly growing SME in the Real Estate industry faced challenges managing high call volumes and identifying quality leads, especially with interest rate cuts. To address this, we deployed a custom AI Voice Assistant capable of answering calls 24/7, engaging prospects in natural conversations, and intelligently pre-qualifying leads based on specific business criteria (e.g. customer with pre-approvals from banks). The AI Voice Assistant seamlessly handled inbound inquiries, asking targeted questions to assess prospect needs, budget, and urgency. Qualified leads were instantly routed to the sales team, while less promising calls received helpful information or self-service options. This voice-driven automation not only captured every lead but also eliminated time spent on unqualified prospects.

Within three months, the client saw a remarkable 50% increase in qualified leads and a 60% reduction in response time. The sales team could now focus solely on high-potential opportunities, resulting in faster conversions and a measurable boost in customer satisfaction. Customers appreciated the prompt, human-like engagement and the ability to get instant answers after hours.

By integrating an AI Voice Assistant, the SME streamlined operations, grew lead quality, and elevated customer experience demonstrating how AI can be a game-changer for small businesses seeking scalable and effective solutions. 

Q. As a woman founder in the tech industry, what challenges have you faced and what advice would you give to other women aspiring to build tech-driven businesses?

A. I often get asked this question. Honestly, I don’t see any limitations for Women in any field not just Tech. I believe, women are not less than men, on the contrary they have better Leadership skills. And in today’s time where you can use Technology to your advantage, it is the Soft and Leadership skills that you need as an entrepreneur. For aspiring women, all I can say is “Believe in yourself, if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.”

The other two important things are 

1) Be Authentic. It’s ok if you don’t know something, admitting it will only create trust. 

2) Be a life-long learner. “Anybody who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.” – Henry Ford. So let’s choose to stay young.

There’s something truly magical about spring, the way nature awakens in a burst of colour, the air feels lighter, and every corner seems to hum with possibility. It’s the season of blossoming, not just for flowers, but for hearts, dreams, and style.

As the world outside turns into a canvas of pastels and petals, our inspiring members mirror that beauty through their vibrant spring fashion. Flowing floral dresses, bright hues of yellow, blue etc and delicate accessories come together to celebrate femininity, confidence, and joy. Each outfit tells a story, of grace, individuality, and the radiant energy that blooms when women come together to uplift and inspire one another.

Spring reminds us that growth is beautiful, change is natural, and joy is contagious. Seeing our community embrace the season with such elegance, charm, and positivity fills the heart with gratitude. Here’s to fresh beginnings, blooming connections, and the timeless beauty that shines from within, brighter than any flower in the garden. 

Many thanks to:

Eesha Boutique

Au Gallery Boutique

Usana Australia

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, (in collaboration with She Magazine) is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.

Look Within and Reclaim Your Light

By Jacqueline Koloski

(https://www.connectingwithjacqueline.com)

Whenever you give your power to something outside of yourself, you disconnect from your truth. Your energy moves outward instead of inward. But when you turn your attention back to your inner world, that sacred space within, where you reconnect with the real you. It’s there that you’ll rediscover the magic, the beauty, the love, the kindness, the joy, and the happiness you seek.

We are living through extraordinary times. Times of change, challenge, and profound awakening. Beneath the turbulence lies a quiet opportunity,  to create a new world. A world born from love, kindness, compassion, and soul growth. This is a time for courage to look within and truly see ourselves, perhaps for the very first time. Deep within each of us lives a knowing, ancient and wise,  that we’ve often avoided. It’s the part we’ve hidden away, lifetime after lifetime, only allowing glimpses of it to surface. But what if now is the time to finally return home to that place within you? To open the door, to meet yourself there and to remember who you truly are?

I’d love to share an excerpt from my book in progress, written during a time of deep transformation in my own life:

When she believed she had nothing left, she looked within and there it was, a tiny spark flickering softly. Curiosity drew her closer. She felt the urge to breathe life into it, to give it focus. Though exhaustion weighed heavy, she knew that if she wanted that spark to grow, she had to nourish it. As she breathed deeply, gratitude filled her heart for those who had held her through her pain. The spark began to glow, expanding into hope, strength, determination, and a quiet knowing that she could rise again. Even in her darkest moments, she knew she would.

That spark lives within all of us. It’s time to get curious about yours, to nurture it, feed it, and allow it to guide you forward. You may not know exactly what it is yet, but by listening to the whispers of your soul, it will reveal itself.

For me, being me is about the daily rituals that reconnect me, to myself and to others. Sometimes it’s as simple as a smile, a hug, or a kind word that shifts the energy of a moment. Other times, it’s tending to my own wellbeing, resting, moving, or breathing consciously. These small acts ripple outward, inspiring others to do the same. Real transformation begins in simplicity.

Now is the time to remember that you have so much more within you, more love to give, more light to share, more purpose to live. You may feel tired or uncertain about whether peace and change are truly possible in this world. But they are. Every time you reconnect to your light, you contribute to the healing of the whole.

So take time to rest. Nurture your body, your heart, your soul. Look within and find that tiny spark waiting for you. Breathe life into it and watch it grow brighter, steadier, stronger,  radiating out for all to see and feel. Imagine if more of us did this. What could we create together?

Many people ask me, “But how do I begin?”

It’s simple — though not always easy. Start with one small act of connection. Try this heart connection meditation to get you started. 

Heart Connection

Use this when you feel disconnected, distracted, or in need of love. It’s a gentle way to return home to your heart. 

Place your left hand over your belly button.

Place your right hand over your heart.

Take a slow, deep breath in then release it fully.

Feel your body soften.

Be present with what arises – emotions, sensations, words.

Continue breathing until you feel calm.

When ready, open your eyes and write down any insights or feelings.

Pay attention to how you are feeling. You can use this at anytime during the day. 

Affirmations

What we focus on expands. Affirmations help retrain your mind to see possibility and beauty. Here are some to begin with:

Today I will let life flow and trust that it brings me all that I desire.

Today I choose actions that empower and inspire me to create a life I love.

Today I will look at myself with kindness and gratitude for all that I am.

Today I release what no longer serves me, knowing that change is a sacred part of growth.

These simple tools are powerful gateways to self-awareness and transformation. There are many others, but these practices can help you start reconnecting now, in this moment.

Make time for you and reconnect within to that beautiful space in your heart that will always bring you back to you. 

In a time when everything competes for our attention, the way we channel our focus shapes not only our thoughts but the reality we experience. Every conversation, every emotion, and every choice is energy in motion. When we make it a habit to talk more about our blessings than our burdens, we aren’t denying life’s challenges, we are consciously choosing to magnify the good. Gratitude isn’t just a mindset; it’s a magnet. The more we acknowledge the beauty and abundance already present in our lives, the more the Universe responds with even greater blessings.

It’s easy to get drawn into negativity, the chaos of social media, the drama of comparison, or the endless loop of “what’s not working.” But discipline lies in knowing when to close that window. The triggers might seem captivating, but they drain the very energy you need to grow. Protecting your peace is not avoidance; it’s wisdom. When you choose what to entertain, you choose what to amplify. And the truth is simple yet powerful: where focus goes, energy flows. The more you align your attention with gratitude, growth, and grace, the more your life begins to reflect that same radiant energy back to you.

Think of it this way, two people can experience the same rainy day, yet one sees a gloomy inconvenience while the other sees a chance to slow down, sip hot coffee, and enjoy the sound of nature’s rhythm. The situation is identical, but the focus changes everything. Similarly, when faced with setbacks, those who dwell on the loss often stay stuck, while those who look for the lesson rise stronger. Oprah Winfrey once said, “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” Every time you shift your attention from what drains you to what drives you, you reclaim your power. Positivity isn’t pretending everything’s perfect, it’s choosing to see the light, even when the clouds haven’t cleared yet.

The International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2025 became a defining moment for India and for women in space as Mission ShakthiSAT, the world’s first all-female lunar mission, took center stage. Led by Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder of Space Kidz India and the visionary behind Mission ShakthiSAT, alongside Sukruti Narayanan, Global Head of Partnerships and Australian Ambassador for the Mission, the team achieved an extraordinary series of diplomatic, academic, and technological milestones that captured global attention.

From forging international partnerships to reshaping the conversation on inclusivity in space, their impact resonated far beyond the conference halls of Sydney.

A Stellar Representation on the Global Stage

Throughout the Congress, Dr. Kesan and Sukruti Narayanan were at the heart of pivotal discussions shaping the future of space exploration. The duo:

• Briefed Hon. Tim Ayres, Australia’s Federal Minister for Science & Technology, on Mission ShakthiSAT’s groundbreaking progress and its global outreach.
• Advocated for stronger India–Australia collaboration in space technology at a bilateral roundtable led by the Chairman of IN-SPACe and the Head of the Australian Space Agency.
• Presented the mission to the Malaysian Minister of Communications, who praised its vision of empowering young girls from rural and underrepresented communities.
• Strengthened global diplomatic ties through engagements with ambassadors from Nepal, Paraguay, France, Bolivia, Colombia, and Australia.

In the scientific arena, Mission ShakthiSAT’s team presented two acclaimed research papers, earning appreciation from international researchers and industry experts. The mission’s CubeSAT and rocket programs drew keen interest from investors and institutions alike, culminating in four major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with organisations in Australia, the US, France, and the UAE, a monumental leap toward global collaboration.

Applause from Icons and Innovators

The mission’s trailblazing efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Steve Waugh, former Australian cricket captain, personally commended the initiative for its social and educational impact, calling it an inspiring example of how science can drive empowerment. Industry leaders and space-tech CEOs echoed this sentiment, recognising Mission ShakthiSAT as a pioneering model for cultivating future talent in aerospace innovation.

India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Mr. Gopal Bagalay, also lauded the initiative, celebrating it as a symbol of India’s growing leadership in inclusive space exploration.

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Space Kidz India made history as the only women-led organisation in the Indian Pavilion at IAC 2025 — a powerful statement on gender representation in science, technology, and innovation.

“This milestone reinforces our belief that space is not bound by borders — it unites us all,” said Dr. Srimathy Kesan, reflecting on the mission’s journey. “Through Mission ShakthiSAT, thousands of young women are learning that their dreams can truly reach the stars.”

Adding to that vision, Sukruti Narayanan shared, “Bringing community leaders into the SpaceTech dialogue is the only way to make this multi-trillion-dollar industry truly inclusive. My mission is to make Space accessible for all — not just a few — because when communities take part, the cosmos belongs to everyone.”

Empowering the Next Generation

As a proud ambassador of India’s space innovation and women’s empowerment, Sukruti Narayanan continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers. Her leadership has opened extraordinary global pathways, proving that space exploration isn’t just about rockets and research, but also about representation, resilience, and redefining what’s possible.

At Empowered BWB her mission is deeply resonant.

“We take immense pride in Sukruti Narayanan, whose leadership is opening extraordinary global pathways for our communities. We stand with her in making Space accessible for everyone, everywhere.”

Mission ShakthiSAT’s success at IAC 2025 is not just a triumph for India, it’s a triumph for every woman who dares to dream beyond the sky.