Some questions sit quietly until life insists you answer them. For me, it was: What would my legacy be if my story ended tonight?
That reckoning came on January 9, 2020, when I narrowly survived an accidental overdose. Just as the world would soon confront a pandemic, I was facing a different kind of uncertainty—one that pressed me to consider what I was truly leaving behind. Then, barely three months later, on April 1, life tested me again with another critical illness. Both experiences left me changed, and, in their wake, I felt a profound pull toward something bigger: to help others find meaning and hope in their struggles.
This was the seed of what would become Grace to Grow—not as a business, but as a response to the deep needs I saw reflected in myself and so many other women: the need for guidance, for second chances, and for spaces to grow beyond the limitations of circumstance.
Lessons in Legacy: What Adversity Teaches Us
If I’ve learned anything about leadership, it’s that legacy is rarely built on the peaks—it’s shaped in the valleys, in moments that humble us and clarify our purpose.
Legacy after hardship is something I see echoed everywhere:
- Oprah Winfrey’s journey reminds us that adversity can be a launchpad for empathy and influence.
- Nelson Mandela’s story teaches the value of endurance and reconciliation.
- Malala’s voice proves that even the young and wounded can shift the world.
Through my work and recovery, I’ve come to believe our most meaningful legacies grow not from what we achieve but from the ways we empower others to rise after their setbacks.
Scripture Spotlight ✝️
2 Corinthians 12:9: My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
We rarely talk about weakness as a source of strength, but perhaps it’s at our limits that we most clearly encounter grace—and are equipped to pass it along.
Podcast Reflection 🎙️
🎧 Miracle Mineral: Magnesium as a Response to Burnout with Ian Clark
In this eye-opening conversation, Ian Clark, founder of Activation Products, shares how a personal health crisis led him to discover the life-changing benefits of magnesium. Like my journey to creating the Slow Down & Live Health Summit, Ian’s story is a testament to turning adversity into a new path.
Quick Takeaways
- Why Magnesium Matters: This essential mineral supports everything from brain power to immunity, yet most of us are deficient due to depleted soil and processed diets.
- Total Body Impact: Magnesium balances the nervous system, eases anxiety and brain fog, and even affects our energy, metabolism, and resilience against burnout.
- Three Energies: Ian explains how Magnesium helps balance your Chi (energy from food), Jing (your body’s battery), and Shen (your spirit/character)—making it crucial for lasting health and well-being.
Noteworthy Quotes:
- “Little things that we miss are extremely important because they have a gradual impact on our life on a cumulative basis.”
- “This is the cheapest insurance policy you can give yourself—invest in the right form of Magnesium.”
Ian’s global quest for natural healing ultimately empowered him to help thousands achieve better health. If burnout or low energy is on your mind, this episode is a must-listen for inspiration and actionable steps.
The Science Behind Legacy Leadership 🔬
- Purpose-driven leaders are more likely to foster trust and commitment on their teams (Harvard Business Review).
- Mentorship increases women’s self-efficacy and professional advancement by over 40% (Catalyst).
People are three times more likely to remember how a leader made them feel than what they did.
Fun Fact of the Week 🤔
A global study found that when women become community mentors, their confidence and sense of belonging skyrocket—not because of the role itself, but because in helping others, we rediscover ourselves.
Interactive Poll 📊
What moves you most in a leader’s legacy?
🔘 Overcoming adversity
🔘 Empowering others quietly, behind the scenes
🔘 Building community, one relationship at a time
👉 Vote in the comment.
Resources of the Week 📚
Book: Legacy by James Kerr: A poetic look at what the legendary New Zealand All Blacks rugby team can teach us about values, humility, and the long shadow of authentic leadership.
Ease Magnesium from Activation Products
Say goodbye to burnout and hello to renewed energy! Ease Magnesium is a highly bioavailable, pharmaceutical-grade magnesium spray—sourced from the Dead Sea and designed for rapid absorption through your skin. Just a few sprays can help improve sleep, ease aches and pains, and restore your natural energy levels.
Why Ease Magnesium?
- Absorbs quickly through the skin for immediate effect—no gut upset
- Supports muscle relaxation, nervous system balance, and stress relief
- Made from pure magnesium chloride hexahydrate—one of the world’s most natural, effective forms
- Free from pollutants, heavy metals, and toxins
- Backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee!
How to Use: Simply spray on after your shower, before bed, or anytime you’re tired or sore. Your skin will soak it up in just 90 seconds!
✨ SPECIAL OFFER: Get 15% OFF with my exclusive code HENEKA Shop Ease Magnesium via my affiliate link
Or visit my personal Activation Products store: https://shop.activationproducts.com/HENEKA
Coupon code: HENEKA at checkout for your discount!
Prioritise your wellness and experience the difference magnesium can make!
Final Thoughts 💭
Looking back on that difficult season in 2020, I see not just pain, but a powerful invitation: to live with intention, to lift others, and to recognise that our leadership legacy is written not just in what we build, but in who we help to develop themselves.
If you’re in a valley or standing at a crossroads, I hope this serves as a gentle reminder: Sometimes a legacy starts with survival, but it’s fulfilled in service.
Ready to Elevate Your Journey?
If you’re seeking clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose, I invite you to connect with me for personalised coaching. Whether you’re navigating change, building resilience, or aspiring to leave a legacy, you don’t have to walk the path alone.
Let’s unlock your potential together—book a complimentary discovery call and take the first step toward your next level of growth.
👇 Connect with me at heneka@henekawatkisporter.com, via WhatsApp at 876-849-2571 for Coaching Or simply reply to this newsletter to let me know you’re ready!
Your breakthrough starts with one conversation. Let’s make it happen.
With grace and gratitude,
Heneka Watkis-Porter
Podcast Queen| Leadership Visionary Architect | Coach | Grace to Grow Mentorship Founder
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