As a writer, I consider myself an artist at heart. As artists, we rely heavily on praise -- from friends, loved ones, business associates, fans and the critics on a good day. Praise boosts us by increasing our self-worth. We feel more confident and it shows. When the inner artist is criticized -- wham-o -- our self-worth takes a hit.

When we have a big vision for ourselves -- and are taking steps toward fulfilling that dream -- it can be time of major transition and growth. When we are in this stage of growth, we need to muster all that we have to make our creative dreams come to fruition. Including our self-confidence. But, often it is not wise to share our vision or dreams with others until we are truly ready to do so. Here's why.

It is wise to be driven by enthusiasm and to have a well thought-out plan to make it happen, and it is certainly nice to fantasize about, but reality has a habit of ensuring that not everything we start in life comes to fruition. Like it or not, accept it or not, it is simply the way it is.

After a fateful trip to Paris, Ackerman was inspired to turn her love of travel, food, art and culture into a business. So she launched Butter and Egg Road, a travel-inspired private members' club that brings together an international community of like-minded people to share their love of food, art and culture during weekend social events in different cities across North America.

As a talk show host, I love to delve into the what inspires the hearts of my guests -- and their success secrets. I also know there is a price to pay for success. The question is: what is the price you are willing to pay? Every goal we set out to achieve has a price tag attached. When we look at the big picture, we must determine if we are willing to pay the price to follow our desires.