Decisions made daily…
This past week was one of a lot of reflection. Looking back over my professional life there were many times I had asked myself if I had made the right decision. Have you ever started something or bought something only to wonder that same question?
I remember one decision I made when I was young. I was living with my grandma to attend kindergarten. My mom and dad did not make a lot of money to support our household of seven. We always had food, a roof over our heads and clothes to cover us. Nevertheless, you know how kids are. We always want what we do not have, what the other kids have.
One day at school, I swiped a gumball machine ring from a classmate. That ring looked like a big fat diamond to me. We never got gumballs out of those machines. They cost a dime and mom said we just could not afford nonsense like that.
Well, that little girl was devastated. She told our teacher and her reaction set in motion a lesson that has lasted me a lifetime. The teacher instructed everyone to close his or her eyes. The guilty party was to return the ring, no one was watching. No one would receive punishment if each person followed instructions.
Very quietly, I got out of my seat and returned the ring to the little girl. No one to this day ever knew I swiped that ring – except ME! That decision was one I regret and still remember. I never, ever took anything that did not belong to me again.
Wish I would have…
Scattered throughout my adolescence there were many times I made wrong decisions. The turn of events ranged from getting home past curfew to taking a piece of gum from my mom's dresser top. Small insignificant happenings, yet all ended in punishment for my actions.
I would soon come to realize that punishment for these small crimes would prevent me from making bigger mistakes later on in life. Decisions certainly played a big part in forming who I became as an adult.
When I graduated high school, I had to make yet another decision. Would I be just like everyone else and go on to get more education or get married to the love of my life? They say the heart carries a lot of pull, yes it won out. Two weeks after graduation I married my high school sweetheart.
Married for just over two years I lost my husband to Leukemia. Just nine months after diagnosis he slipped into a coma and quietly passed away three days later. I was just nineteen and a half when that happened. I would now find myself making major decisions that no one should have to make at such an early age.
Deciding to design my life…
Have you ever faced a situation that forced you to make decisions that will affect your very future? That is exactly where I found myself 18 years later. Always having worked hard, performing to everyone else's standards and terms my life was miserable.
Here to Serve,
Carla J Gardiner
Carla J Gardiner is an ex-banker turned entrepreneur who built an auto transport brokerage and dispatch center from the ground up. With half a days training and little else Carla learned the business inside and out the hard way…by doing it. Her passion and purpose lies with the people she works with daily; the client, dispatcher, broker and truck driver. Her frustration within the industry has birthed a new division of her company; one to properly train, encourage and mentor other professionals in auto transport.
"Very well put. I've been with a health and nutrition company for over 26 years and I understand exactly what you are going through. I shiver to think what my health might be today at age 68 had I not stuck to my guns as far as practicing what I preach. Yes, I fall off the wagon regularly but my daily routine life reflects taking care of my health. That way I can keep up (somewhat) with my 7 grandchildren. You keep it up, Carla". 
"For most people the thought of venturing out there in pursuit of your dreams, in a place outside of your comfort zones is just what stops them. But I could sense your excitement not resentment in going against the competition. In planting your stake and truly making a difference in the clients experience. That's ultimately what matters, the rest just falls so easily into place. Thanks for that reminder"! 
Carla, I’ve got to say that I LOVE your focus on the joys and challenges facing women over 50. I’m definitely in that camp! I’ve been inspired by your candor, practical ideas, and refreshing determination to joyfully tackle life. The hours we’ve spent on the phone, in person, and through social media have enriched my life immeasurably. YOU are one Fiery Grandma, and I love your style! 
I have known Carla Gardiner for 6+ years. We met at a business training for bring business online. She is a business women at heart and willing to do the hard things to make the results show up. I have watched her run a business, work a job and take care of her family. She is a go getter when it comes to putting in the work to build her business to the level of being able to enjoy her grand kids.
She is the example that age is not a limit it is a tool for sharing knowledge to those she empowers to use their own skills and talents. Excuses are fuel to push her to learn and apply. I have seen her scared to death about implementing new technology and rock it out despite the learning curve.
I love watching you grow into your greatness Carla! Don’t slow down. 
"Carla, you are a model for me to follow. I love your site. And, I like what you have to say - very kind, very gracious. I have to say though that nothing in my life has ever been crystal clear". 
"I've known Carla for 5+ years and can tell you that she has lived every bit of this and more. We shared tears and laughs and hard work....you will enjoy getting to know Carla."