WATERLOO - A little self-talk can go along way.

Joyce Morley-Ball is a chief executive officer of her own company. She holds a doctorate degree. She travels the country as a consultant, motivational speaker and psychotherapist.

Morley-Ball also sees benefits from looking in the mirror and asking a question. Only, this woman doesn't expect the looking glass to tell her who is the fairest. She supplies her own answer - Joyce Morley-Ball - and encourages other women to insert their own name.

"The power of self-love is so great," Morley-Ball said.

On Friday, Morley-Ball addressed 1,000 mothers, daughters, sisters and friends at the fifth annual Speaking of Women's Health event. As the conference's keynote speaker, Morley-Ball spoke on the value of self-love and self-confidence and the importance of positive, female friendships.

Speaking of Women's Health is a national effort to educate women to make informed decisions about health, well-being and personal safety. Friday's sold-out event at the Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center offered a day of health screenings, workshops and inspirational speakers.

Some attending the event lined up at 7 a.m. - a full half-hour before registration, said Chris Hyers, vice president of Business Development for Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare. Covenant Foundation, a part of Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare, hosted the event.

" We really want women to walk out of here feeling inspired and empowered," he said.

Many in attendance, like Joleen Swain of Shell Rock, attended the conference with friends. Swain, at her first Speaking of Women's Health event, accompanied former co-workers.

"It's always good to be healthy," Swain said.

Karen Nieman said more women wish they could attend the event. She said the event has a history of bringing in good speakers.

"I have people waiting at work who want to come," Nieman said.

During the keynote presentation, Morley-Ball asked women in the audience to dance and sing, to speak out loud words of self-affirmation and to wrap themselves in a hug. In keeping with the event's theme, she encouraged women to exhibit qualities and characteristics associated with super heroes, like fearlessness and confidence. Recognizing limitations, she said, is perfectly acceptable.

Morley-Ball challenged her audience to keep charging ahead with a smile in the company of other women who provide wisdom, support, honesty and understanding. Past hurts and obstacles are worth acknowledging but shouldn't consume the present, she said.

Contact Karen Heinselman at (319) 291-1581 or karen.heinselman@wcfcourier.com.