Peggy Sijswerda wouldn’t know this, but I’ve been a long time fan of her work, having first learned of her when she brought Tidewater Women magazine to our area. She was the first person I ever heard describe herself as a travel writer, which I thought was (and think is) just hands-down amazing. Her work has been featured in “little” publications like Everyday with Rachael Ray, Parents magazine, Ritz-Carlton magazine, and many more. Most recently, she created Tidewater Family magazine — which, like Tidewater Women, will give Hampton Roads business owners another intelligent, niched place to advertise. Peggy is truly a Woman Who WOWS, and I’m excited to have her as our first feature of 2014.
What ONE THING do you think gives a woman the “WOW” factor?
Being true to herself. We can’t “wow” anyone (including ourselves) if we are not living an authentic life.
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
My dad taught me to actively look for ways to make the world a better place, even just by doing small things, like holding the door for someone, smiling at strangers, or giving someone your shopping cart.
What is the most important lesson you learned from YOUR Mom?
I remember when I was in college, my mom wrote letters (remember those?) and instead of saying “Study hard!” she always ended her letters with “Have fun!” I’ve always tried to make room for fun in my life—because if life isn’t fun, then that’s a clear message from the universe that you need to rethink your priorities.
If women could instantly emulate ONE trait, habit or skill set that YOU possess, which trait, habit or skill set should it be?
Yikes, “instantly emulating me” sounds like a script for a horror movie. But I guess a trait that I am most proud of is honesty. Once a friend said that she admired me because I was never devious in my thinking and I always mean what I say.
What ONE success tip or strategy can you leave us with?
It sounds cliché, but it’s simple: always do your best.
