GIllie Haynes
A longing kept me up many nights. Kept me wondering if I would ever find the place where I truly belonged. Then, one day I realized I’ve always been where I belong – in my own realm of multidimensional expression and creativity.
As a child I talked a lot…all the time!
So talking was a big part of my journey as I searched for the place where I thought I should be – I worked as a journalist at a newspaper, in radio producing shows and interviewing guests. During my time as a Public Relations Manager I organized advance teams, spoke at conferences around the country, and responded to the press on behalf of a national project. Even though there were a number of jobs in a few different cities, there were times when I felt that I didn’t quite belong in a particular place, although I enjoyed the work that I did.
As I mentioned, it is in my personal space of expression and creativity where I am most comfortable. It is also in this place that I discovered how much I enjoy, no…I absolutely love options!
I founded my own coaching practice, Simply Speaking, in order to offer innovative public speaking techniques which I believe are key for delivering impactful, memorable, speeches and presentations. My seminars, leadership training, and one-on-one professional development sessions are utilized by clients of all ages to help develop public speaking confidence.
Another area where I’m able to use my skills is as an Adjunct Professor at the American University in Washington, DC. In my class I am able to guide my students through a number of speeches, and they’re able to use the skills they learn in their internships, new jobs, in every area of their lives.
Did I mention that I’m also a poet? I am!
I started writing poetry when I was nine-years-old, and when I was in high school I had the opportunity to share my poetry at a number of school assemblies. More opportunities to talk!
Fast forward to present day…I have written two books of poetry – Sounds Like a Poem to Me (2012), and ‘Cause I Was Feeling Mighty Free (2015). I’m currently working on my third. I must be honest, those books came a lot later than I hoped, because “Life” can get in the way, interrupt, and even derail plans. Yet, here’s the most amazing thing you should know about me. I believe in me so much and I knew the books were going to happen, just not when I thought.
The other unexpected “light” for me has been the chance to conduct public speaking workshops and share my poetry internationally. In 2015, and 2016 I conducted public speaking workshops at the American Center in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. While there I did separate poetry readings. I traveled to Ho Chi Minh City again in 2017 where I conducted another public speaking workshop. Also in 2017, I was selected as one of the winners in the 24th Annual Artists Embassy International’s Dancing Poetry Contest in San Francisco for my poem titled, “Reach for Me.” In August, 2018 I conducted a public speaking workshop for the employees at the Guatemalan Embassy in Guatemala City.
When I review the many stages and phases of my life, I am grateful for my gifts and talents that stir my passion and purpose. I believe and know that I am more than one theme – capable of managing more than one dream at a time. It is my desire to exist beyond imagined, while embracing the chance to live and express myself “out loud.”
Welcome to my life…where words come alive and big things can happen for me and you!