Unlocking Your Authentic Power: How to Cultivate Happiness and Overcome Life’s Obstacles with Elizabeth Jane

In life, we often face unexpected challenges that force us to question everything we once held dear. Elizabeth Jane, author of Free and First: Unlocking Your Ultimate Life, knows this all too well. After her seemingly perfect 25-year marriage ended, Elizabeth found herself navigating a sea of emotions, from shock and disbelief to profound sadness. But instead of staying stuck in the turmoil, she embarked on a remarkable journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. Through yoga, meditation, and self-help practices, she pieced together tools that not only helped her rebuild her life but also inspired her to share her insights with others. Today, Elizabeth is a passionate advocate for finding joy, embracing vulnerability, and living authentically.

In this candid and inspiring interview, Elizabeth opens up about her journey, offering practical tips on how to overcome life’s obstacles, cultivate happiness, and find inner peace. She shares the importance of acknowledging emotions, setting boundaries, and letting go of expectations while also highlighting the power of movement, creativity, and forgiveness. Whether you’re navigating a personal crisis or simply seeking to live a more empowered life, Elizabeth’s wisdom will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take the first steps toward unlocking your own ultimate life.

Thank you so much for joining us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

Certainly, I thought I had a happy life—four healthy children, a wonderful marriage, and everything seemingly in place. Then, out of the blue, my marriage fell apart after 25 years. It was devastating—I found myself caught in a whirlwind of emotions: sadness, shock, disbelief. I had spent decades prioritizing my family, pouring all my energy into being a wife and mother, and unknowingly neglecting my own identity. When my marriage ended and my children became independent, I was left wondering, “Who am I without them?” It was a deeply confronting experience. I realized I had lost touch with myself, and I needed to rebuild from the ground up. This led me on a transformative journey. I immersed myself in Kundalini yoga, attended meditation retreats in India, and devoured self-help literature. Slowly, I pieced together practical strategies that helped me reclaim my sense of purpose and joy. Eventually, I compiled these insights into my book, Free and First: Unlocking Your Ultimate Life, which serves as a guide for others navigating life’s difficult transitions.

When life takes a turn, and you lose your sense of happiness, what would you say is the first step toward regaining it?

The first step is to bring yourself into the present moment. So often, unhappiness stems from being stuck in the past—replaying painful memories—or worrying about an uncertain future. Neither of these mindsets serves us. Instead, I recommend creating a “go-to list” of simple, joyful activities that help ground you in the here and now. This list can include anything that brings a smile to your face—dancing to your favorite upbeat song, walking in nature, or even picking a flower and admiring its beauty. These small moments might seem trivial, but they can break the cycle of negative thinking and help you refocus on the present, where life is actually happening.

A lot of people struggle with acknowledging their emotions. How important is it to confront how we feel?

It’s absolutely crucial. I developed something I call the “ABC of Me,” which stands for Acknowledge, Allow, and Accept your emotions. When we suppress our feelings, they don’t just go away—they stay with us, influencing our thoughts, behaviors, and overall well-being. Acknowledging emotions means recognizing that it’s okay to feel hurt, sad, or angry. Allowing those feelings gives them space to exist without judgment. Finally, accepting them is about understanding that emotions are temporary. Once we process them, we can let go and move forward with clarity. Confronting how we feel isn’t about dwelling in negativity—it’s about freeing ourselves from it.

What are some ways people can bring more joy into their daily lives?

One of the simplest ways to invite more joy is through movement. Physical activity releases endorphins, those natural mood-lifters that make you feel good. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or simply dancing around the house, movement shifts your energy and boosts your mood. Another powerful tool is engaging in hobbies. When you’re immersed in an activity you love, you’re fully present, which naturally creates a sense of joy and peace. It doesn’t have to be something grand—whether it’s gardening, painting, or baking, anything that sparks joy and keeps you engaged will help you reconnect with yourself.

How does vulnerability fit into the process of finding happiness?

Vulnerability is a bridge to genuine healing and lasting happiness. It takes courage to admit when we’re struggling and to open up about our feelings. Whether it’s confiding in a trusted friend, seeking professional support, or journaling privately, being vulnerable helps us process emotions rather than burying them. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we create deeper connections with others and build a stronger connection with ourselves. In that openness, we discover who we truly are, which ultimately leads to more joy and fulfillment.

How does forgiveness play a role in healing and happiness?

Forgiveness is one of the most powerful tools for healing. Initially, I struggled with it—especially when it came to forgiving my ex-husband. I questioned how I could forgive someone who caused me so much pain. But over time, I realized that forgiveness wasn’t about excusing the past; it was about releasing myself from the burden of resentment. Once I reframed forgiveness as a gift I was giving myself, it became easier. I began to see my past challenges as opportunities for growth. Gratitude for the lessons made forgiveness feel more natural, and with that came a sense of peace and lightness I hadn’t felt in years.

What’s one simple, actionable step our readers can take today to start feeling more empowered?

Take just 10 minutes for yourself. Whether it’s a brief walk, a few minutes of deep breathing, or jotting down three things you’re grateful for, these small pauses can work wonders. It’s not about making huge changes all at once—it’s about creating tiny moments of mindfulness that help you reconnect with yourself. Over time, these small, consistent actions build a solid foundation for greater balance, empowerment, and well-being.

Sometimes life feels overwhelming, and it’s hard to stay positive. How can people manage those moments?

The key is to be kind to yourself. Life isn’t a race, and it’s okay if you’re not always at your best. Break your day into manageable chunks and focus on what you can control in each moment. Ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” It might be rest, a nourishing meal, or simply stepping outside for fresh air. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a child—gentle, patient, and understanding. Progress, not perfection, is what matters.

How can someone start cultivating presence in their life?

Cultivating presence starts with small, mindful pauses throughout your day. Take a walk without distractions—leave your phone behind—and focus on what you see, hear, and feel. Notice the colors around you, the sounds of nature, or the sensation of the breeze on your skin. Meditation is another great tool. It doesn’t have to be formal—just sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. When your mind wanders, gently bring it back. These moments of mindfulness help anchor you in the present and quiet the mental chatter that often fuels stress and anxiety.

How can setting boundaries improve happiness and well-being?

Boundaries are vital because they protect your energy and reinforce your self-worth. When you set clear boundaries, you’re saying, “I matter, and my well-being matters.” This could mean saying no to commitments that drain you or limiting time spent with people who bring negativity into your life. Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s an act of self-care that allows you to show up as your best self, both for yourself and for others.

What are some practical ways to create a more positive environment?

Creating a positive environment starts internally by becoming aware of your thoughts and consciously choosing to shift toward more positive ones. Externally, it involves surrounding yourself with people who inspire and uplift you. Let go of relationships that drain your energy or keep you stuck in negativity. This can be difficult, but it’s vital for your growth. The more positivity you cultivate, the more it becomes a natural part of your life.

Why is creativity such an effective tool for healing?

Creativity keeps you grounded in the present. Whether it’s painting, writing, gardening, or crafting, creative expression allows you to channel your emotions in a healthy way. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment and joy. Engaging in something purely for the love of it, without any pressure or expectation, is incredibly liberating and therapeutic.

What inspired you to write your book, Free and First: Unlocking Your Ultimate Life?

The inspiration came from my own healing journey. As I worked through my struggles, I began writing down what helped me. Over time, those notes evolved into a guide filled with practical tools and strategies. I wanted to create something simple and accessible, something that anyone could use to start improving their life right away, no matter where they were starting from.

Are you working on anything new at the moment?

Yes, I’m working on a second edition of my book with a bright yellow cover—it’s a symbol of light and joy, which I think is fitting. I’m also planning a series of children’s books featuring Australian animals to teach kids about the beauty of nature. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and I’m excited to bring it to life.

How can letting go of expectations help us feel happier?

When we let go of rigid expectations, we free ourselves from disappointment. Life doesn’t always go the way we plan, and that’s okay. By staying open to possibilities and focusing on the present, we can find joy in the unexpected. Happiness becomes less about achieving specific outcomes and more about embracing the journey.

What are some common myths about happiness you’d like to debunk?

One of the biggest myths is that happiness depends on external circumstances—wealth, success, and relationships. While these things can enhance our lives, they aren’t the root of lasting happiness. True happiness comes from within—from cultivating gratitude, inner peace, and self-love.

Where can our readers find your book and follow your work?

My book, Free and First: Unlocking Your Ultimate Life, is available on Amazon in both print and digital formats. You can also find more about me and my upcoming projects on my website, elizabethjane.com.au. Additionally, my interviews and podcasts are shared on my Instagram and Facebook, which are accessible through my website.

Thank you so much, Elizabeth, for sharing your powerful story and offering such valuable advice. I know our readers will gain so much from everything you’ve shared today.

Thank you, Stacey! It’s always a pleasure to join you, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to connect with your amazing audience.

Elizabeth Jane is an author, speaker, and transformational coach dedicated to helping individuals rediscover their joy, embrace authenticity, and navigate life’s challenges with grace. Drawing from her personal experiences of overcoming adversity, Elizabeth has developed practical tools and strategies for cultivating inner peace, resilience, and self-empowerment. Through her book Free and First: Unlocking Your Ultimate Life, workshops, and inspiring talks, she guides others on their journey toward emotional healing and personal growth. Passionate about wellness and self-discovery, Elizabeth continues to impact lives by sharing her wisdom and uplifting message across various platforms.