“In the chaos of everyday life, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what you want,” writes O magazine columnist Martha Beck.

That’s why we interviewed Beck for this issue of Be Inkandescent! A sociologist with three degrees from Harvard, Beck is the author of several bestselling books that help readers map their way to a more joyful life: Finding Your Own North Star (2002), Steering by Starlight (2008), and her latest, Finding Your Way in A Wild New World.

Beck was named one of the country’s first life coaches in 2002, thanks to an article by USA TODAY. It explained that life coaching guides “give clients the confidence to get unstuck—to change careers, repair relationships, or simply get their act together.” In the last several decades, her national and international workshops, and sophisticated coaching training program, have helped millions bridge the gap.

Sound New-Agey, hippie-dippie—or, perhaps impossible? Decide for your yourself. Below is our interview with Beck, and in our Tips for Entrepreneurs column, she offers ideas on how you can reclaim your true nature to create the life you want.

Ready to pull back the curtain? Then click around this issue and read about the featured companies and professionals who are living the life of their dreams—and helping others to do the same.

• Gen X is sparking a renaissance of entrepreneurship in America. Our Generations columnists Morley Winograd and Michael D. Hais explain why.

• We traveled to Chicago’s Namaste School to learn how at-risk kids stay healthy and engaged using the power of yoga.

• Think you can’t live the life you want? “Nonesense,” says life coach Amy Steindler, who ditched her successful career as a financial advisor to become certified in Martha Beck’s life-coaching approach. Her adventures are sure to inspire you.

• Are you 45+ and want to be an entrepreneur, but don’t know how? Meet Toa Do, whose nonprofit NOVAGATE. helps aspiring small-business owners accomplish their dreams.

• Want to have sweet dreams in NYC—without spending a fortune? Try The Pod Hotel.

We leave you with this parting thought from Martha Beck, who dedicates her book, “Steering By Starlight:” To you, whenever you’re walking in the dark.

Here’s to your success! Hope Katz Gibbs, Be Inkandescent
Illustration by Michael Gibbs www.michaelgibbs.com