I’ll Ask My Sister

How to set boundaries at work

This week’s question: 
What is your advice on creating boundaries in how frequently I can and should be expected to work and setting boundaries on where professionalism and friendship is appropriate in manager-employee conversations? I find that I'm the only one in the workplace who finds that the line is constantly being crossed from professionalism to far too personal in situations where it should definitely stay professional.
Discover:
How to reflect on whether work energises or drains you. Generators, like our listener, thrive when work aligns with their passions and gives energy rather than taking it away.
Practical advice for setting boundaries, with examples of how and when to set them while staying polite & professional. 
Understanding and following your emotional cycle can help in making decisions that feel right at the moment, especially for people like the listener who have an emotional authority.
The personal and societal pressures that might be influencing your idea of professionalism. It’s important to understand where your view comes from so you can challenge it if necessary.
The modern face of professionalism is quite different than it used to be. Professionalism now has space for flexibility, self-care, and authentic connection. 
This week’s question comes from a barista in her 20’s, she’s a 6'3 generator with an emotional authority. Discover your human design here: www.myhumandesign.com
I’ll Ask My Sister is the advice podcast where the cosmic meets the corporate. Sisters Ellen Hooper, Executive Coach in Melbourne and Mads Willams, Human Design Coach in London bring the insights of human design and astrology to your career and business struggles, and vice versa.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
 
 

If I don’t have savings, am I stuck?

This week’s question: 
I've heard Ellen mention before that having a fuck off-fund is essential, and I often cringe internally when I hear her say it. What's the advice if you don't have the fuck off fund and need to figure out where to go next?
I pulled out of a stressful job in the NHS with the aim of starting a less stressful one. I’m still in the NHS three days a week, and use the other two days a week to pursue something more in line with my dreams. I'm now really enjoying my new part-time job, though it's a daily three hour commute, helping out on a community project two days a month, but I’m still none the wiser about how to pursue my dream. 
I'm thinking of returning to full-time work, negotiating, working from home for the other two days, and pursuing the side hustle dream on weekends and evenings since my nonexistent funds have run dry. I'm asking for a cosmic sign and a sisterly breakdown of the situation.  Am I on the right path right now?
This week’s question comes from a 35-year-old woman in the UK who is a 3/5 splenic projector. Discover your human design here: www.myhumandesign.com
 
Discover:
The significance of maintaining a "fuck off fund" as a financial safety net, and practical alternatives if building an emergency fund is currently not feasible.
How to run the numbers to understand your living expenses and identify what financial support you might need.
The power of the "Ikigai framework" in finding a fulfilling career by focusing on what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what can provide financial sustenance.
How embracing challenges and pressures can be transformative and are integral to both spiritual and personal growth, offering opportunities for deep self-discovery.
Why it’s important to track your energy levels over time and design your life to suit your peaks and troughs. 
Inspirations from famous projectors who lead successful lives by effectively managing their energy and focusing on guiding roles rather than constant doing.
Strategies for rebranding "side hustles" into "side projects" or "portfolio careers" to shift the focus away from relentless hustling towards a more passion-driven and balanced approach.
 
 
I’ll Ask My Sister is the advice podcast where the cosmic meets the corporate. Sisters Ellen Hooper, Executive Coach in Melbourne and Mads Willams, Human Design Coach in London bring the insights of human design and astrology to your career and business struggles, and vice versa.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
 

How to talk Human Design for the non-believer

This week’s question: 
I'm a 1/3 sacral generator, who has more recently tapped into my human design after being a pretty cynical non-cosmic person for most of my life, and it’s been working well for me so far.
 
I have somebody in my life who I love dearly, who is a 6/2 projector, very not cosmic at all. They are a very feet on this earth, rational science-based person. I would love some tips from you about how to help this person rediscover a little bit of magic and joy, and work in a way that really suits them following their human design. They won’t be open to learning about human design, so I’d like to know how to approach the subject subtly and guide them where I can.
Discover:
Balancing the want to “help” people who aren’t on the same journey of self-discovery. Not everyone is going to be on the same path at the same time, so how to deal with this is key. 
The importance of recognising and valuing the unique designs of others. Though you might think they should be living their life in a certain way, they may feel differently. You don’t want to put unnecessary strain where it’s not useful.
Strategies for working with projectors. They require more “downtime” than other human designs, work at a different pace. Acknowledging that this is what they need and working in a way that you all thrive.
Creating spaces for meaningful connections without imposing personal growth expectations.
Allowing different relationships to serve different needs. Each person can fill a certain “role” for you. Find your spiritual friends and allow those who aren’t there yet (or maybe never will be) to meet your needs in other ways.
This week’s question is from a 1/3 generator who runs her own business. Discover your human design here: www.myhumandesign.com
 
I’ll Ask My Sister is the advice podcast where the cosmic meets the corporate. Sisters Ellen Hooper, Executive Coach in Melbourne and Mads Willams, Human Design Coach in London bring the insights of human design and astrology to your career and business struggles, and vice versa.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast

How to carve your own path

This week’s question: 
The next stage of my work life is very scary for me and unusual in my bubble of friends who are on the corporate side, so everything feels scary. I keep losing my confidence and feeling like it looks wrong from the outside. Do you have any advice on staying in my lane when I feel very influenced by the outside world?
 
Discover:
The importance of having a diverse group of people you can rely on. While your current friends might give great advice on personal or relationship matters, it’s crucial to have people who understand and support your career ambitions. 
How and why you should be connecting with expanders - people who exemplify the kind of success and lifestyle you aspire to have. If you don’t have anyone like this in your life, finding them on social media is still a great way to keep motivated. 
The unique strengths and challenges that reflectors, as the rarest human design type, can face. Most crucially, reflectors absorb and mirror the environment they’re in so they need to stay mindful of their surroundings and company at all times. 
If you’re worried about certain people in your life being unsupportive of your career goals you don’t need to tell them! You’re allowed to keep your aspirations private so they can develop without criticism and doubt. 
 
This week’s question is from a 5/1 reflector in her 30’s. Discover your human design here: www.myhumandesign.com
 
I’ll Ask My Sister is the advice podcast where the cosmic meets the corporate. Sisters Ellen Hooper, Executive Coach in Melbourne and Mads Willams, Human Design Coach in London bring the insights of human design and astrology to your career and business struggles, and vice versa.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
 

How to take your side hustle full-time

This week’s question: 
I have a full-time corporate job and have been running my creative well-being business for four years alongside it. I feel like it's got the potential to be something really special and allow me to live the lifestyle I want, but I don’t have the space I need for the inspiration to come. I'm also trying to understand how I can run a business sustainably because I don't want to be working all the time and in a constant cycle of burnout. What would you suggest for me in this transitionary time?
 
Discover:
Tips for identifying and overcoming limiting beliefs that might be holding you back. 
How to recognise and avoid toxic elements of entrepreneurial culture, that can drive you towards burnout. 
Perpetual growth doesn’t need to be your goal. Consider building a lifestyle business focused on a sustainable and fulfilling work-life balance. 
What human design can tell you about your energy, and how to work with that cycle, instead of aiming for constant productivity.
 
This week’s question is from an emotional manifestor. 
Discover your human design here: www.myhumandesign.com
 
I’ll Ask My Sister is the advice podcast where the cosmic meets the corporate. Sisters Ellen Hooper, Executive Coach in Melbourne and Mads Willams, Human Design Coach in London bring the insights of human design and astrology to your career and business struggles, and vice versa.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
 

Can I be spiritual if I'm rich?

Is it possible to be spiritually fulfilled and financially successful, or will one inevitably cancel out the other? 
 
Join Ellen and Mads on I'll Ask My Sister as they tackle this question with their blend of cosmic insight and corporate savvy. They also explore how to create a true work-life balance, how to ride the waves of your emotions, and how human design can help parents better understand their children. Enjoy! 
This week’s affirmation: Full Moon - Something in your life is coming to a head or a turning point, so tune into your emotions to see what they’re telling you. The odds are in your favour as this is a positive card, but you may need to work harder than usual to keep cool as events unfold
This week’s key takeaways:
Aligning your daily routine with your natural energy cycles can increase productivity and personal satisfaction.
It’s okay to wear different hats and adapt your identity based on your audience and context.
Knowing whether you are emotionally defined or undefined according to human design can provide valuable insights into your emotional behavior.
Letting passion and impact guide your actions will naturally draw in the resources needed for success.
You don't have to choose between being wealthy and being spiritual; both can coexist harmoniously.
This week's listener question: Is life about accumulating wealth or developing our spirituality?
Although many religions and societies push the idea that purity and spirituality can only be achieved by rejecting material wealth, Ellen argues that it’s possible to pursue both at the same time. In fact, financial stability can make it easier to pursue your spiritual goals and help other people!
Mads adds that everyone’s path is different, so it’s important to reflect on your motivations and values to find the right one. She also talks about the balance between radicalism and pragmatism, and working within the current capitalist framework while striving for change. Engaging with the system does not mean endorsing its flaws; rather, it’s about using one's position within the system to create positive change.  
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
Check out the website: www.askmysisterpod.com 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
@ellen.hooper.consulting
@madsmadswilliams
@lookingforairsigns 
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjhooper/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mads-williams-lfas/
 
Find out more at: 
www.ellenhooper.com
www.lookingforairsigns.com

How to find focus in a busy world

It’s hard to find balance in the hustle of daily life, and even harder to feel focused with some many things demanding your attention.
But it is possible!
In today’s episode of I’ll Ask My Sister, Ellen and Mads share their strategies for staying grounded amidst the chaos. The conversation also flows into personal growth, emotional well-being, and balancing work demands with parenting. Like always you can expect lots of practical advice and cosmic wisdom.
This week’s affirmation: Full Moon in Sagittarius – Life is an adventure and there’s a huge world to see beyond our backyard. Take time to explore and focus on the big picture rather than the little details.
This week's listener question: How do I better focus on whatever it is that I'm doing, be that parenting or working, rather than my head going every which way all the time?
Discover:
Tips to make boundaries that keep your family and work life separate, which helps maintain focus and reduce stress.
What human design can tell you about your emotional cycles and why it’s so important to adapt your productivity to them.
Getting creative, with things like journalling or poetry, can be a great outlet for stress or overwhelm.
How to take advantage of the flexibility in your schedule to handle unexpected changes without stress.
Multitasking is a myth! Almost everyone is more efficient and attentive when focusing on one task at a time.
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
Check out the website: www.askmysisterpod.com 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
@ellen.hooper.consulting
@madsmadswilliams
 
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjhooper/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mads-williams-lfas/
 
Find out more at: 
www.ellenhooper.com
www.lookingforairsigns.com
 

Passion or money, do I have to choose?

Have you ever found yourself hiding your true self for fear of being seen as cringe? Or perhaps you're struggling to find the balance between pursuing your passions and making a living.
Mads and Ellen tackle these questions in today’s episode of I'll Ask My Sister. They also discuss energy policing, human design motivations, karaoke insights, and self-worth. Their conversation is packed with honest reflections and practical advice, so sit back and enjoy!
 
Listener Question:
This week’s question comes from someone who needs advice on determining which of their interests and skills should be pursued for profit and which should remain as sources of pleasure.
Ellen suggests reflecting on yourself to determine if monetising a passion could make it less enjoyable. Mads advises focusing on momentum and allowing interests to grow without the immediate pressure of financial returns. They both agree that the key is to find the intersection between what one loves, is good at, can be paid for, and what the world needs.
Mads then brings up the human design framework, explaining that a better understanding of our motivations will make it easier to align our personal and professional lives. She also advises the listener to follow what brings them joy and satisfaction, even if it means facing societal judgments or feeling "cringe."
 
Key Takeaways:
    You don't need significant life changes to experience joy; sometimes, it's as simple as engaging in activities you love but have forgotten.
    While it’s natural to worry about loved ones, it’s important to trust their process and not impose your standards onto them. This fosters a more supportive and understanding relationship.
    Embracing cringe is about breaking free from the ego's constraints and allowing oneself to enjoy life fully, even if it means occasionally feeling embarrassed. This acceptance can lead to greater joy and authenticity in one's daily life.
    Valuing oneself is crucial in achieving financial success. Understanding and affirming one's worth can lead to better financial decisions and prosperity.
    It's never too late to reconnect with your authentic self, even if it means rediscovering passions you set aside in your youth.
 
Ask The Cards:
From the Moonology Oracle deck, we drew the New Moon in Taurus card
Affirmation: You can have what you want, including material things, but first you must believe in yourself. 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
Check out the website: www.askmysisterpod.com 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
@ellen.hooper.consulting
@madsmadswilliams
@lookingforairsigns 
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjhooper/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mads-williams-lfas/
 
Find out more at: 
www.ellenhooper.com
www.lookingforairsigns.com

Once in a blue moon

anecdotes, and sisterly wisdom. Ellen and Mads kick off, like always, by sharing the cosmic and the corporate in their last week.  
As the conversation continues, they talk about the internalised messages and societal pressure that can make it difficult to celebrate our achievements. Despite the impulse to downplay, it’s important to acknowledge and enjoy our accomplishments without attaching them to further success.
There’s an extra dose of cosmic in this episode thanks to the recent astrological blue moon, which is when two full moons occur during the same sign, and to celebrate Mads and Ellen are also doubling up with two listener questions!
 
Listener Question 1The first question comes from someone with a gift for amplifying other people and helping them achieve things who asks: “If it is part of my design to bring out the good in others, why am I jealous of the person I helped?”
Ellen brings up that someone asking you for help suggests that you’re really capable in that area. If jealousy comes up, it might be because you aren’t using your gifts in the way you’d like to. Mads shares her experience of launching others toward their goals but feeling left behind. It was only when she used those feelings as a guide that she was able to find the path that made her happy.
 
Listener Question 2The second listener says: “I'd like to hear what or where you think the power can be in the concept of surrendering in any area of life, work, relationships, et cetera. What does it look like to surrender?”
Ellen admits she struggles with the idea of surrendering, and that childbirth is the only time she’s actually experienced it. Even after that experience, she finds it difficult to cultivate the immense trust surrender requires, and the idea of fully losing control is nerve-wracking. 
In contrast, Mads views surrender as a beautiful, freeing process. She makes a distinction between surrendering due to exhaustion and the more powerful intentional surrender that flows with life’s momentum.
 
Key Takeaways:
Embrace the Unexpected: Enjoy simple moments and personal connections as they come, even if they disrupt your routine.
Celebration:  It’s important to recognise and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
Jealousy as a Guide:  Feelings of envy can show us areas where we’re unsatisfied or aren’t using our talents.
The Power of Surrender: It’s hard but trusting the process and letting go of control can lead to significant personal growth.
 
Ask the Cards:
From the Moonology Oracle deck, we drew the Full Moon in Scorpio card.
Affirmation: It’s time to release negativity, and move from living fearfully to living joyfully.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
Check out the website: www.askmysisterpod.com 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
@ellen.hooper.consulting
@madsmadswilliams
@lookingforairsigns 
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjhooper/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mads-williams-lfas/
 
Find out more at: 
www.ellenhooper.com
www.lookingforairsigns.com

Open Doors

Welcome back to another episode of the "I’ll Ask My Sister" podcast. Join sisters Ellen and Mads as they explore building passive income, navigating business relationships, resolving conflicts, and what to do when you feel stuck in your job! It's an episode stuffed with cosmic wisdom, practical advice, and warm sisterly banter. So, tune in and enjoy!
Ellen shares her journey of creating and launching her first digital product - a family meal planner and a pick-up and drop-off weekly planner. She talks about the initial motivation behind these products, as well as the investment in graphic design, the financial considerations., and the personal satisfaction derived from the project.
This week Mads asks Ellen to discuss an argument they’ve recently had, which leads to a bigger discussion around conflict and resolution. Working together on a creative project, like this podcast, can cause friction but they’re happy to talk it out. The sisters explore their different communication styles and decision-making processes. Ellen expresses her frustration when her ideas aren't embraced with enthusiasm, while Mads explains her need for thorough context and body-led decision-making.
  
Listener Question:This week's question comes from a listener who is caught between wanting to leave a monotonous job and feeling compelled to stay after fighting hard to secure the role.
Mads' Insights:
Consider whether your desire to leave is driven by fear or by a genuine interest in something new.
 Pay attention to your intuition! Even if you are unsure of what path to take, your body will guide you to the most aligned option.  
Use your curiosity and desire for improvement to explore new possibilities, even within your current role.
Ellen's Advice:
 While you’re exploring new job opportunities, you should also work on making your current job more enjoyable and fulfilling.
 Don’t limit yourself to your current industry or role. Identify transferable skills that could help you excel elsewhere!
It’s important to maintain a work-life balance. Make sure you prioritise joy and creativity in your daily routine, both inside and outside of work.
  
Key Takeaways:
Communication in Partnerships: Effective communication and understanding each other's perspectives is crucial when working on a collaborative project.
Trust Your Intuition: Mads emphasises the importance of becoming the authority in your own life and making decisions that align with your gut feelings.’
Job Satisfaction: Addressing boredom in a job starts with understanding your preferences and seeking roles that genuinely excite you.
 
Ask the Cards:
From the Moonology Oracle deck, we drew the New Moon in Leo card.
 Affirmation: Confidence is your key to success.
 
LINKS
Submit a question: https://www.askmysisterpod.com/question 
Check out the website: www.askmysisterpod.com 
 
Connect with us on Instagram at
@askysisterpod
@ellen.hooper.consulting
@madsmadswilliams
@lookingforairsigns 
 
Connect with us on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/i-ll-ask-my-sister-podcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjhooper/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mads-williams-lfas/
 
Find out more at: 
www.ellenhooper.com
www.lookingforairsigns.com