I love a new year. I always love a fresh start, a clean slate, a new page and an opportunity to reset my intentions. We are going to say goodbye to 2020 and while we want to kick it out the door (for very good reasons), we can also say thank you for the lessons, thank you for the gifts and bless and release this time in our lives.

2021 is unlike any other new year and here is why….

We are reminded that we need to change the way we work and the way we play. We spent too much time filling our schedules and being busy, we have learned that a pause is good for the soul. We have a better appreciation for our freedoms, our health and the things we take for granted. We appreciate the gift of seeing those we love, perhaps we will pick up the phone more often, visit with a friend and focus on the important things. We realize who the real heroes are, they are the hospital staff, nurses, doctors, first responders, essential workers—they are the heroes and we need to continue to honor them.

How can we teach from these lessons, the adversity and the way we over came so much. How we became kinder, more compassionate and more grateful in the midst of the chaos. We learned patience and we tested our resolve. Even thou it was a hard year, we are better because of it.

So while the challenges were immense, the resolve and the resiliency was even stronger.

While I think of all of this from the context of “the world” and our community of Living HIPP (what ever eyes are reading this), I know that change begins with me, and change begins with you too! So we can’t change it all (nor should we), we can however make positive changes in our own lives. As we begin the New Year, this is our own personal invitation to cast a vision of our lives, our dreams, our goals, and chart a course and a plan of moving in the direction of that vision.

2021, what does this year mean to you. What is it that you desire more of and less of in your life?

Each year I tend to take the process of reflection, writing, visualization and self assessment. I always begin with Life and the Vision I have for my Life and then break it down into areas that are most important to me. I have to have a vision for myself, and my life because when I run on empty (which I do at times), I can only go so far. When I am clear on what I want and I put in daily practices that support my HIPP Life, then I open up space for stepping forward in that. What trips me up each year is that by the end of the year I feel exhausted from the holidays (even this year which was more simple, I feel over spent)! I crave self care, I crave a schedule, I crave my rituals and I see this pattern and desire which is true for me year after year. I feel like I live my life in seasons and to begin a new season and/or new year is an opportunity to re-set and set intentions and come up with a plan to create that. Once I am clear on my vision and what I need to do, I make sure I put that all in place. I then think of my business goals and my purpose and I start with bigger goals, but in my business I break them down from 90 day goals to monthly goals (with the Year End goal in mind). This week I unplugged a bit, and I began to write out my intentions for 2021, I began with me.

I think the priority for ALL OF US coming out of 2020 and the year of the Pandemic is your HIPP LIFE VISION & GOALS. Basically what this is is a clear vision of how you want to look, feel and be (feel and be being the most important elements to this). It really is that simple (but oh so damn hard)!

You need to put yourself first, and work on yourself because only then can you be there for others. I know because when I do this, I am so much happier and better prepared to do what I need to for my family and in my life. When I am not, I can lead down that path of destruction and everything is harder. On the outside I look fine, but inside I feel like I am spiraling! Dealing with mind/body health can hold us back (that would be anxiety and/or depression or other challenges that some of us face and for me, it is a reality, and it can impact all of this, but it is real, and it is part of so many of us, and it is okay, you are okay. Living HIPP is the lifestyle brand that helps support this and you, it is tracks to run on, so when you can’t run, you can walk, and when you can’t walk you can crawl.

Here is what I am doing to prepare myself to feel my best in 2021. I am always big on progress over perfection because we are human, and we need to take the pressure off of ourselves, and offer ourselves more love and compassion.

My Daily Commitment:

H20 (hydration just helps with everything, cheers to that)

Alcohol Free (because no day ever starts great with a hangover)

Magical Morning (my time of reading spiritual, positive inspiring/healing words)

Gratitude (because gratitude is everything, it shifts our experience & mindset)

Yoga (either a class or at minimum a few poses)

Sugar Free (yes, because the binge is real) Better Eating!

Other things to add perhaps weekly or monthly:

Simple Joy Moments (working more on the simplicity of joyful moments)

Photography, I love capturing moments and will do more of this (I Phone)

Field Trips, discovering local places and spaces I can visit or explore.

Service: I do things of service, but have not aligned with an organization.

Writing: Writing is part of my creativity and fills my soul.

Hike: I want to do more of this (simple trails my friends)

I will add some other things to support me in living my best life, those are more around body and mind work, so necessary for me to feel grounded and focused.

As my first boss in my professional career shared with me “Rome wasn’t Built in a Day”, yes, I am one of those people that go all in and want results stat! The mantra of progress over perfection will continue to guide me in the new year. But this is not new to me, all of these things are not new, I have been doing many of them, but also have become complacent in some ways too.

I hope this inspires you as you begin to set your intentions for the year. Remember my list might not be what you need, write the list that suits your needs and what works best for you. Go inside, listen to the whisper of your heart, think about what brings you joy. Add your own experience, your history, your truth and come up with the list that works for you. I am going to share more on what I am doing, so that you too, can feel inspired to do the same. 2021, let's do this!

For many it was such a difficult year that impacted lives, health, finances, faith and it truly is a historic unprecedented time and the hardest year of our lifetime collectively. My heart aches for those that were lost, those that lost someone and those that are either isolated, lonely or challenged emotionally, financially and are strained. It is difficult, and my hope and prayer is that there was silver linings, and that you experienced the love, the gifts and the comfort in the small things, because they really are the big things.

For me personally, 2020 was HARD. As I grow each year, I learn more about myself and what works and does not work for me—throw in disruption and it triggers emotions. This past year, moving to our new home was such a blessing and gift and we absolutely love it here—going from that excitement to a Pandemic was unexpected (like all of us have experienced in some way). I was just settling in and we got hit with Covid and lockdown. As a Home Body, part of me LOVED some of quarentine, I loved having my babies home (for the most part) and I loved the simplicity, the gift of time was just that, a gift. Even with the gifts, I felt isolated at different points, I missed my old life, I missed the freedom to just go out, do the things I like to do, and small things like that can take their toll on me emotionally. When we are stuck (be it at home, or with less to do) we are stuck in our emotions (that is not easy, it is hard and it is hard work which can’t be replaced by the things we tend to replace it with when we are in auto pilot). Underneath it all, was an uptick in anxiety, and when my anxiety is heightened, it invites it’s friend depression, and the past year has been a cycle of all of these things, and trying to cope, and also trying to be there for others, all the while, feeling weighed down myself. I know I am not alone, and I know so many struggle with this, and especially in a year of Pandemic we just need to give ourselves a break, when we feel ourselves heading for a breakdown (no, not the full breakdown, I would argue most of us have the breakdown which is not seen on the outside, we look fine, but we feel depleted, we are exhausted and we need rest and extreme self care). Some other things happened in the year that were a challenge, and that too made me sad, made me mad and also made me question myself and others. So, if you felt kicked down a few times, or on your knees this past year, you are not alone, I did too. However, it was not all down, there were moments that were amazing and while 2020 was hard, I know I will look back at this time as the greatest gift. I loved the time home with my kids, I loved that our schedule was less busy, I loved that I did not have to travel anywhere (yes, I am looking forward to getting back to it, but how nice to be grounded)! The being kicked, brought to our knee’s, feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, mad, sad, frustrated, it all leads to growth. These challenging things in our life are just that, a challenge, and challenges are also teachers and gifts. The question is this: what is there here to teach me?

I don’t have all the answers, but I do know that each obstacle is a lesson and an opportunity—and it is my job (and your job) to pick ourselves up and continue on our path.

If 2020 has taught us anything, it has taught us this…

—Be grateful for the gift of life, for it is not guaranteed, and life is a gift

—Be grateful for those you love, we are truly blessed with our people

—Time is precious, it should not be wasted being busy and over scheduled

—Simplicity is the key, less really is more, embrace it

—Pause, pause every day in gratitude, reflection and blessings

—Good Health is everything, lets not take it for granted, ever (self talk here)

—Attitude is everything. It’s okay to be down, but we must always look up.

—The Kindest things happen when people are kind. Always be Kind.

—The human spirit is much more powerful than the plague(s) out there.

—We need to build our work around our lives, we had it backwards

—We need to be the architects of change and of our lives.

—You are not alone, you may feel isolated in your own head, but others feel this way too, ask for help.

— Let go of what you can’ control, and take action on the things you can

—God and the Universe is with us always and leading us (as are our Angels).

It is my belief that God has reminded us and led us back to what is important. A simple way of living, being with family, being at home, having less on our schedule, focusing on the important things, keeping things simple, having conversations, perhaps going inside ourselves and seeing how over scheduled, over burdened, over taxed and over stressed we have been living. There is a lesson and a gift in all of this…. Do Less, Be More Present (write that down)!

As we had our coffee this morning, my husband and I reflected on the year. His experience was a good one, given the bigger problems in the world. I (like many times) had a balance of both blessings and burdens, and as I move into the New Year, I am taking those blessings with me, and the burdens, they can just roll off as a memory and some I can carry as an opportunity as I walk into the New Year—an opportunity to grow. What ever burdens you had in 2020, my wish for you is that you leave them behind (the ones that you can), and carry your blessings (currently disguised as burdens) with you into 2021. Cheers to abundant blessings, they are right in front of us, when we pause and look up, we see the light! XO

On this day 25 years ago I got engaged, it was a happy festive moment in my life. That next year, it fell apart, the relationship ended and the engagement was off, this was one of my falling down moments in life, when I followed my gut but it hurt, it hurt so very bad. That year after relationship heart ache I lost my Dad unexpectedly, my world literally came crashing down. I had to learn to pick myself back up, and put one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. How would I ever be in another relationship, I did not want that hurt or pain again, and how could I ever breathe, I missed my Dad so much I can still feel that pain.

The story here is that love prevailed. My story did not turn out how I thought it would or should go--God had other plans.

I don't understand why my Dad left this earth at too young of an age, those are questions we will never understand. It has influenced my life, and shaped who I am. I learned to appreciate life even more, and I also learned to support others and understand loss in a way that you only understand by going through it. I learned how strong I really was, and I watched my Mom lead us through grief with grace, grit and resilience in a way that to this day, blows my mind. The vulnerability in these life situations were raw and full of emotion. So while I lost the most important man in my life (my Dad) and parted ways with another great man, I opened up space for what I least expected, my life would begin an entirely new chapter that I never expected, planned or prepared for. A year later, a blind date turned in to a romance that turned into another engagement which turned into a marriage, which turned into a family and answered prayers and dreams of being a wife, and being a mom, and having a home, and living in a community that I loved. I wanted all of this but did not plan it the way it happened, this was God's work (oh, and I think my Dad George might have had something to do with it too).

If you are reading this and the wheels are coming off the bus (or you know someone who is in this situation), remember, it might be the wrong bus, it most likely is a temporary situation and the road ahead will twist and turn, and eventually lead to brighter days, and perhaps a different co-pilot. Any time I fall down (which I continue to do in life and at various stages), I know how to get back up, I know that God has me, and I know that faith is bigger than any fear, and love is bigger than any other emotion and that hope is always in my heart.

The lesson here is that your story is still unwritten. Walk in faith, don't look back, just follow your gut, always trust your intuition and be open to new possibilities. Life is both beautiful and brutal and we need to embrace it all. In the end, love will lead the way! XO #livinghipp #leadwithlove

So here I am, standing in my front yard leaning on my "white picket fence" looking down the road. My comfortable home, my beautiful family, on the North Shore of Massachusetts. You never know where your life is going to take you and what road you will end of going down--what I do know, is that God can only create what is mean't for you when you let go of what is not mean't for you. It hurts, it's hard, but when all is said and done, it is going to be okay. I am blessed, an amazing man that loves me and is the best Dad, 3 amazing kids that we could not be any more proud of, and a life filled with great people--I am humbled and grateful. Every day is not easy, in fact, there are days and challenges on this road I still travel. These speed bumps along the way remind us to slow down, pay attention and look for the signs that guide us in the right direction.

I told my husband Charlie Guyer this week that there is no other person on this planet that I can rely on and that has taken better care of me (exception of my parents) than him. He is my person and our kids are my people. I found love, in the end, love found me. XO

A gift of 2020 is that it has given us the ability to slow down, to be more present and while we have this gift, it has been difficult to accept it because there is too much going on around us, I know that to be true for myself. Here we are and it is the Holiday Season, and I must admit, things seem a little brighter, a little more festive, and perhaps a little bit more reminiscent of yesteryear. While we can’t be together, we can be celebrating the season in our homes, in our neighborhoods and in our communities. This year’s celebrations look different. I am in awe of all the early decorating and everyone just looking to add some joy, and they are taking charge in their homes, and letting go of the chaos of the season (it does not exist this year) and rather being a little bit more present, more joyful, more open to the spirit of the season. We can do so in our neighborhoods just by a few sparkling lights, or a wreath on our door or a kind gesture for a neighbor, look around you, it is all there, and it is time we stop and smell the pine needles and scents of the season. Our communities are resilient and in the midst of it all, shop owners and storefronts are showing up, are decorating their windows and what we can do is turn our dollars away from Amazon (when possible) and shop local and support these lovely businesses in our towns.

It is Christmas time in the city, in the town, in the village.

It is Christmas time in our homes.

It is Christmas time in our hearts.

It is Christmas time in a child’s eyes, that excitement, wonder and glow.

This year has been an unbelievable challenge for many (most of us), and out of every challenge comes an opportunity, and our opportunity here is a gift.

It is the gift of time.

It is the gift of the season.

It is the gift of being present.

It is the gift of focusing on the real things.

It is the gift of joy.

It is the gift of peace.

It is the gift of comfort.

It is the gift of family.

It is the gift of home.

If you like this season, you feel it tremendously because the hustle and bustle is not a thing this year, and simplicity, presence, spirit and joy are. Be with it, enjoy it, even in the midst of your worry, your old thought patterns, your overwhelm and your uncertainty.

For those of you that don’t love the season, perhaps this is your year to feel a little bit more Christmas cheer. When you find yourself complaining, redirect and think about your blessings. You don’t have to be Martha Stewart: decorate, cook, entertain, and do it all. No, you get to choose what you do and how you do it. Keep it simple. Make it joyful. Focus on the Blessings. Let the lights twinkle as a reminder of the magic of the season and the love in your heart!

Let us not forget the reason for the season. A child was born, and in that birth came new beginnings and promises. What is it that you want to give birth to this season and in the new year? You have everything inside of you to do what ever it is you want or be what ever it is you want to be (feelings not occupation). Let this season be your playground for joy, presence, peace, comfort and light, a vision of where you are and where you want to be. Make it Magical! XO

To be human is to be vulnerable, and when we are vulnerable we are truly being our authentic selves. I will be honest, as much as I try and be vulnerable, I also have a hard time doing so out there in the world. I have spent my life building, creating, transforming, striving, performing and getting ahead (to some degree with periods of falling down, failing, being stuck and experiencing all parts of me). I have been working on this, but I feel like I digress, and to me it is part of the journey one in which I know I need to speak on, to call out and to share, because I know I am not the only one—we all have different parts of ourselves, the part of ourself that thrives, that is on, that is capable and that is winning. We also have parts of ourselves that carries fear, carries shame, carries doubt, is afraid, and does not feel worthy. I have spent my life avoiding her, trying to stifle her, and trying hide that part of me, the parts of me I have a harder time accepting and expressing. In the past few years I have been trying to nurture that side of me, to let her be seen, be heard and to welcome her to the party of life. It has not been pretty and I have not been a good friend to her. I spent decades working hard, achieving, performing so that she would not appear on the scene—but no matter what, she is always there, she is part of me.

The year of 2020 has been a challenge for all of us, while I can say that there have been blessings and I know I will look back at this time of slowing down as a gift, time with my family as a gift, it also has been a challenge for me personally, a tug of war with my demons (which are not bad they are just part of the human experience). I so admire vulnerability in others, when people are brave enough to share, to be vulnerable to be real, it truly captures my respect, it speaks to my heart and it reminds me that I am not alone. Truth be told, I love to work on being my best self, I want to shine my light on the world, but how can I do that if I am not willing to share my darkness too. This year I have tried to sit with my feelings and it has not been pretty and it has not been easy and I have had to try, and do again, and get comfortable with the uncomfortable. I happen to be an emotional being, and to brand that in a positive way, I am emotionally intelligent, and to tell you the truth of what that looks like at times is that I feel like I am a hot mess at times. I feel emotions deeply, and I can take on the vibes around me, the positive part is that I have an abundance of empathy and compassion for others, the down side is that it can be heavy, and it can weigh on me, and learning to set boundaries and navigate is something I have been working on.

This is life’s journey….

It is the ying and the yang, it is the good and the bad (or hard), it is the balance of our gifts and our challenges and the ability to turn many of those challenges into gifts. However, it is okay to not be okay. It is okay to feel the feels, the sadness, the anger, the fear, the real feelings that reside in all of us. I am brilliant at my ability to rebound, redirect and move forward (and I am grateful for that optimistic survival way of living), however, I need to get better at being okay with the not okay. There are times I want to stuff it down, drink it away, work it off, and escape the feelings, but I have learned (and am learning) that does not work, it is only a coping mechanism that can go from good to bad, it is learning new ways of being, new ways to process feelings, and living more mindfully and being present (easier said than done). What has been really hard for me in this process is that it is not getting anywhere, I like to check things off, I like to arrive and to accomplish and with this, there is not ending and it is a way of being. It is doing it over, and over and over again, it is a bit mundane and boring, but it’s compound effect can be what creates change.

I wrote this post for me and for you. Trust me when I say I love the Pam that shows up with her A game on, when I am feeling good, grounded, on purpose and on fire—I will always love that part of me that can by dynamic, motivating and owning my power. But, that is not all of me…. I have this part of me or this voice inside that has fear, that hurts, that has suffered loss, that has been rejected, that does not want to be rejected and that questions her worthiness (yes, we all have a need to know we are worthy and enough). Rather than stuff her down, I am going to try and welcome her to the party, she is part of Living HIPP, and needs to share her voice in the world.

Vulnerability right here. In this world of Social Media and the highlight reel, we need to be vigilant about being real, about being authentic and sharing our stories (not necessarily on social media) but telling our truth, owning our story and redefining what happiness looks like and accepting ourselves and each other for realness not for the “who’s who” of our circles on and off line.

Life is Magical, Life is Messy and I believe with all my heart that Living HIPP is the intersection of Vulnerability and Vitality. As I look to the new year I have hope, dreams, vision and will set goals—but I am doing so on my terms, with my vulnerabilities in mind and nurturing the part of me that is afraid, that feels “less than” and that is vulnerable.

For those of you that this resonates with, I see you, I hear you, I am you. XO

Each season, I typically come up with a theme, or a word, and when it comes to Living HIPP, a practice to ground myself in the chaos of the season. This year, unlike other holiday seasons, we are in a position for the first time to not have the “hustle and bustle” of the season, that to me in and of itself is a gift. I have decided that I am going to really try and practice self care during the holiday season—as otherwise I go on automatic pilot, do some self care but can over indulge in food, a busy schedule, too many things to do, and the list goes on. Last year I had that season…. So this year, I am going to celebrate “12 Days of Christmas” with a word for each Day.

To kick this off, I am writing a post about the first word.

JOY.

Joy to me is everything. Joy is such a simple thing, a great mindset to have, and something I seek every day. When I am joyful, I am truly present in my life, I am looking at things with a lense of gratitude, and simplicity is a big part of the simple joys in life.

Months ago I wrote out a Joy List, and it is such a great exercise to do to discover what brings you joy. So, if you have not written your joy list, start there. Think about things specifically around the Christmas/Holiday Season that bring you joy.

So Joy will kick off these 12 days of Christmas, and my commitment for this month and the remainder of 2020 is to choose Joy. Wishing you Joy this Season and Always! XO

I have recently experienced that “feeling left out” feeling, the one that strikes a cord deep in my soul from a wound long, long ago—I tend to not go there for the most part, but I’m human, and humility requires vulnerability. I don’t like this feeling, and to me, I chalk it up as middle school stuff, but as I thought more about it the reality is, as grown women there are times we feel left out…. And, it sucks….

After feeling the ping, and the pain, I acknowledged it, I thought, well, that sucks, it hurts, but no tears flowed, and I reminded myself I am a grown woman and I don’t need to feel this way—that gulp, that pain, that fear I used to feel. Even still, I could not help but think “why would someone do this”, “how can they feel good about themselves”, and I also felt kind of used (ugh, the worst feeling ever). I call it, “dropped like a hot potato”!

So after I had those thoughts and of course, discussed it with my husband, he reminded me of who I am and he also reminded me of who I want to surround myself with. Yes, that same advice I give others—that fine balance of “feeling the feelings” and then moving forward (with grace).

The truth is as women, we do feel this way at times, and sadly younger women feel it more than ever with Social Media. I had to fall back on a quote I had to use years ago, I coach others with it, and I needed to embrace it myself.

“Go Where the Love Is”….

I could not do anything about being left out, in fact, that had nothing to do with me. I also can’t control what others do, it is hard not to think, I would never do that.... The only control that I do have is how I manage my mindset, how I respond, and learning to go where the love is…. How liberating is that? How beautiful is that? Along the lines of…. “What others think of you is none of your business”. It is true, blinders on, lean in to the love, and let go of what you cannot control. There is a saying that rejection is God’s protection, I seek spiritual meaning and somehow God leads you in directions and shows us signs but sometimes we ignore it, and it will show itself again.

I also had to remind myself of how I want to show up for others. Again, we can’t control other's behaviors but what we can do is be the person we want others to be. I want to be the person that is thoughtful about others feelings. I want to be inclusive. I am reminded about how I want to treat others—I want to be there for others in their best and worst. So, while the lessons in life are hard ones at times (and sometimes we need to learn them over and over) at the end of the day, we need to go where the love is!

Grace. Love. Hope. That is how I am going to move forward….

Go where the love is, if you look, it will find you!

I was listening to a Podcast where Brene’ Brown talked about the stages of growth a team experiences, it brought me back to my Corporate days where I taught this very thing to highly educated professionals that had to truly learn and immerse themselves in Team Dynamics.    It was the most interesting process because not only did we teach the content, but we had them go through experiential learning, and in that process they would get frustrated, disagree, and seek me out to share their opinions and group problems.  I would encourage them to stick with the process, follow the methodology, be open, and to work on their listening skills, communication skills and trust that the process of facilitation works, as does group and team dynamics.  

There are  4 stages of Team Development  we taught consultants—in order to better understand how teams work and how to progress the team through the stages to high performing teams.  This can apply to any type of team, and is an interesting perspective on how teams work, and ultimately perform.   

1. Forming 

2. Norming 

3. Storming

4. Performing 

Forming:  A team coming together, understanding roles, looking at strengths & weaknesses and identifying roles.  

Norming:  These are the rules and guidelines on how the team will work together, this helps the team to follow a process that is inclusive, respectful, balanced and sets criteria with objectives and rules of engagement. 

Storming:  Ultimately there is always “storming” that happens on a team, and these are the challenges that erupt, be it a difference of opinion, power play, dominant personality/player and experiences that when managed effectively become lessons on how the team moves forward.  

Performing:  This is the objective for any high performing team, and ultimately where you as the facilitator or leader want to reside with your team.   This is where the team is fully functional, collaborating, listening, encouraging, motivating supporting each player and member—the goal and objectives are clear, as are the rules of engagement—there is a shared spirit, a focus on the team and not one’s own objectives.  

Note:  Any time the team goes through a change and/or a new member joins, it goes through these stages again—typically it is not as arduous, but the team needs to experience orientation of new team members which ultimately learn the team norms, team culture and adapt to it’s synergy, power and positive norms and culture.  

So, when you hear things like their is no “I” in team, that could not be any more true, team work is about the team, the larger goal, and the power of supporting and leveraging each member in a positive way.   Also, “team work makes the dream work”, sounds fluffy but let's break it down.   For any team or community or group, when people work together for the better good, when they insist on unity, support, kindness, empathy, compassion, motivation, mentoring, edification it creates amazing results, and not only does it result in a high performing team, it creates a synergy and energy that is positive, uplifting and powerful!  

So the question we need to ask ourselves at the end of the day is this…

Are you a team player?  

Team Player:

Encourages, Supports, Motivates, Positive, Compassionate, Passionate, Believes, Edifies, Leverages, Builds others up, takes responsibility, participates, advocates, champions.  

Or are you a “Team Swayer”:

Negative, complains, talks about the leader, critical of teammates, judgmental, gossips, competitive (not in a healthy  way), can’t attitude, comparing to others, excuses.  

Depending on where you see yourself, Team Player or Team Swayer will determine your ability not only as a team player but as a leader.   The dynamics and power of a team is incredible, and investing in the culture of the team, the leadership style, the norms and behaviors is everything when it comes to creating a high performing team and a positive team culture.   People need guiding principles, team norms, positive leadership training and examples to set the standard of how they work together and how they create “group think” which ultimately will create the culture of an organization or team.  

XO

I am feeling a bit nostalgic & grateful about being a Mom Boss and the holiday season.    I was on a call as we plan for the Holidays, and November in my business is the best month, so that anticipation is in the air, it awakens that holiday feel, these feelings that are so much stronger (and lighter) than the fear in the world today, and the uncertainty we all live in.   Business has evolved quite a bit over the years (and now 2 decades), however, the essence, feeling and spirit of the season is what remains the same, its simply about joy, presence, celebration, generosity, caring, sharing and love.  

My first holiday season in my home based business was back in 2002 (18 years ago)—I remember ordering the holiday sets that my company offered, and feeling excited about the season ahead.  I can still picture my dining room table (4 houses ago), filled with mini products, bath products and the ribbon, gift boxes/baskets I purchased, cellophane wrap and while I am not crafty, I love great presentation and I was excited to create gift items and celebrate the season in business (I called it my Santa’s Workshop).   It was a festive time and a reminder that I really was a Mom in Business (at a time when not many were)—I loved that feeling then and I love that feeling now.  I vividly remember my toddlers racing around that dining table, and the reality of my life, I was home taking care of them (and my baby) and I was a Mom with a small business and a big dream—little did I know at that time I would leverage this business as a career path for 2 decades, succeed beyond my wildest dreams just a few years later and further go on to establish living HIPP—empowering women to own their lives.     

In those early years, I learned a lot about business in terms of the importance of leadership, mindset, attitude and consistency—yes there was product training and sales ideas, but those are black and white to me, the lessons are really on how to build a better version of yourself through the platform of this business.   I will never forget these sea salt scrubs showing up with the oils leaking (my former corporate attitude demanded that was unacceptable), however, successful leaders in the company taught us how to manage it, and how a paper towel and better attitude fixed everything (I quickly learned the power of positive leadership and how to navigate challenges) it was then that I truly began my journey in personal development.  I was exposed to leadership lessons and examples that shaped my ability to not only lead but to develop leaders around me.  These lessons spilled in to my life in the most profound and positive way, it’s not about what happens, it truly is about how we respond to it (applies to every area of our lives).   I had my disappointments that season like getting my holiday open house ready with tons of no shows, or that time I left my order forms at home at a holiday boutique—I learned to embrace the imperfection of the business and the imperfections of myself, I was not growing because everything was great, I was growing because I was trusting the process, deciding to learn from those that have done this and to embrace a positive mindset and leadership.   

I think back to each holiday season and how it was exciting to grow my team, share the holiday experience with others, and share my spirit and love for the holidays.   There is nothing like family traditions, decking the halls, the smell of the season, the glistening lights and music filling my heart and home, I love the season and all it offers.  At my most successful time in business I can remember hosting top leaders at my home a few weeks before Thanksgiving, a fire going, fabulous feeling and spirit among us as we celebrated the season, inspired one another, and then had leadership training and a luncheon.  I will never forget the vibe of that event, and how I merged the feeling in my home, with the spirited feeling of my leadership team, it was magical.  Over the years I have always hosted some team members in my home, I love nothing more than to open my heart and home to my team, and I do so each year.  In my company today, there is so much giving, there is so much to share, and the holiday retail experience is an even greater experience because it truly is our best time, when we offer gifting be it corporate, friends, teachers, family, there truly is something for everyone!  

This year I won’t be hosting a gathering and it will be different because of the Pandemic, but I have to say, the feeling that emerges, the spirit of my love for the holidays is as strong and present as ever.   

Beyond the amazing gift options we share each year, a gift in this business resides in my heart, and it is what I love most about the season and being a Mom Boss, yes, those toddlers are off at college, and that 6 month old baby from my first season is now a Senior in High School.  I have had many seasons of the holidays, and while I have never been a top seller (that is just not my thing), I have always been a top leader, the voice that influences others to shine bright this season.   

I am grateful for so much, and these are a few of my favorite things….

—I love the holiday products each year, I get myself a set to enjoy and indulge in.  

—I love having an escape during the holiday season, this work is fun & exciting!

—I love to give my friends & family our gift sets each year, always extra love put in to it

—I love being in my home, Christmas music playing, and deciding on gift sets on my list

—I love sending my clients a small gift, such gratitude for their business

—I love sending team members gifts during the season, I love to recognize these women

—I love the spirit of the season, the glow, the hustle and the peace all in one, it is all there

—I love the generosity of others, the sharing of ideas, the positive spirit that exists 

—I love celebrating the season virtually with friends across the country and Canada 

—I love all the gifts (these are not just products) they are the feeling of empowerment

I am a person that loves the Holiday season, I love Christmas and this is where I merge my business with my spirit, and even try and influence a Grinch or two that could use some holiday cheer.  My Eighteenth Holiday Season being a Mom Boss, while I have had my own business and have always enjoyed this season, my spirit of the holidays and season pour in to my business and team, it is my spirit that resides in this time, while it is business, it is far more magical, and far more meaningful.    I am in awe of the journey back in my mind, all the lessons and all the love, I am so very grateful for each season, and I look to this season with anticipation, hope and most of all, sharing it with my friends and colleagues.  

So, for the Mom Boss reading this….  In addition to the great selling ideas and tips from your company, be sure to let your spirit soar in the season you are in!   Your spirit, energy, attitude and role can grow this season.  When the product shows up either damaged or an order did not arrive in time, don’t dwell on it, take the opportunity to work on your spirit, make the decision to be the best consultant on your team (meaning not only by performance, but also leadership, attitude & a positive spirit).    The season offers so much, and being spirited in the season and in your business will allow you to enjoy it, build memories and truly receive the gift of the business and this season which is love.  

Lead your business and life with love, put it in to all you do, let go off the small things, don’t harp on the details, just be present, be positive, and allow your spirit to soar this season and beyond.   

Join me, in 2020 to make it our HIPPest season yet.  Yes, there is a Pandemic which changes things, but what will not change is our attitude, our spirit, our determination and the gifts we have been given, this gift of a business this season, lets build more memories and celebrate the season together!  XO 

ADHD 

I had a conversation recently with a friend that was concerned about a recent diagnosis, her child has ADHD.  As a Mom, I related to her concern, but thankfully, I’ve got some experience with this, and I am at a point I see the light at the end of the tunnel, I have come through the tunnel—and I shared these memories & words with her.

I will never forget the moment my Pediatrician shared that my child had ADHD (less hyper, but inability to stay focused and how this impacts his learning).   My face must have shown all of my concern and he said these words which changed everything for me…

“If we didn’t have ADHD/ADD in the world, we would still be rubbing sticks together”!

BOOM!  In other words, with out imagination, innovation, visionaries and big thinkers, we would still be stuck in the caves—I could visualize this and see the brilliance in those that think differently, while it has it’s challenges, it’s opportunities are far greater, it’s opportunities are gifts to the world!  

He also shared (now he is an incredibly successful well rounded Physician, and cute I might add) that he too grew up with ADHD himself—by all means he had me convinced by the time I left his office that it was a gift.   As we went through the questionnaire, not only did I answer the questions about my son, I also took inventory of my own behaviors and at that point screamed, OMG, this is me!  I self diagnosed myself with ADD, and began to study it a little more for myself and my son.   

My Story: 

A few years after my self diagnosis (and this would explain why I feel I can’t get my shit together at times), l wanted to better understand this, and how can I be able to achieve so much, yet still feel chaos, overwhelm, anxiety, all the while bored and stuck at times.  I chose to have an evaluation done for myself to better understand how it plays a role in my life, and based on the assessment with a professional, it is the leader of the pack (I don’t call them mental health disorders, that is just total BS)—my brain just works differently and it is my brain health and ADHD is the most significant underlying “disease” to other things that can arise: anxiety/depression/OCD to name a few.  

I don’t like writing about this, because I don’t even want to own it, I don’t want to deal with it, and I don’t want to be different (how many of us feel this way about what ever it is we are challenged with)?  But, I am different, I am unique, I do learn differently, and while it is a challenge at times (a Physician told me that everything is harder for me than a person that does not deal with this), it also has it’s incredible benefits and those are the things I choose to focus on and those are the things that make me, ME!

I am a big dreamer, I have always had a huge imagination, and as such, I am a visionary, I know how to create this not only for myself but for others, and to communicate this vision to include so many others.  I am creative, if I had another career option it would be in creativity/innovation in marketing & communications— but I digress!  Emotional intelligence is a big part of how I operate, this is my jam, I am high on the emotional intelligence spectrum because I understand people, I understand emotions and I empathize easily to these topics (show me a spreadsheet and my head spins, I don’t like the details and get bored with facts and figures, just show me the bottom line)!   Leadership has always been a natural path for me, by personally taking on leadership roles throughout my life, but also studying it both professionally and personally for almost 30 years.  While I have been around this topic for a long time, it is not the number of years, more importantly, it is the self awareness and assessment that keeps me relevant on the topic of leadership and truly being authentic to my abilities—leadership is not one person, leadership is knowing your strengths and weaknesses, and surrounding yourself with a team that augments your needs.  This very process can and should be applied to the person with ADHD, it requires being self aware and more importantly, it requires the ability to create a support system (team) to strengthen and grow.  

In my own discovery, I even took a course on this for adults, which I ditched so many weeks in because I got bored, we looked too much at the downside and that just does not work for me.  I do remember an image they shared in the class, it was of famous people that have ADHD.  This caught my attention because I had heard these things before, but if you think about it, it is incredibly powerful and it is the big thinkers, the dreamers, the vision casters that innovate and create.  Walt Disney, the master of dreaming, the vision caster is yet one of many world renowned leaders that had ADHD.  

While it is a challenge (yes, the day to day challenges are real), it is a GIFT.  

So to the person who does not have ADHD, and perhaps has judged others thinking they are a scatter brain, ditz, a mess….   Let me be very clear, I would love to see you operate for a day in their brain, perhaps they are not a ditz after all, or rude or unreliable, perhaps they just have had to learn to let go of the type A ways of the world (for which they might have those tendencies too).   Look for the genius, look for the creativity, look for the zest, look for the good, it is there, it is always there.  

To the parent of a child with ADHD.  I am no expert on this, and at times failed miserably, one only has so much patience, and we lost our shit a few times with our brood.  But, what we did do is focus on the whole, I think my ADD helped with parenting a child with it because my focus only went so far and dropping the details (and ability to dissect it all) kept us all just living life, focusing on the good, and trust me, they turn out just fine (I parented a lot with my heart, and as I always share, you can never go wrong leading with your heart).  My child is now in college THRIVING, he is as handsome as ever, likable by adults and his peers, funny (oh so funny and a bit fresh), and doing so well.  The downside is this, he loses things, misplaces his keys, and the cost of sunglasses, jackets and gear (he loses) does not compare to the creative human being we have raised, this kid is passionate, funny, loving and I can’t wait to see the things he will do in this world!  

To the adult with ADD/ADHD (which more than likely is not diagnosed because we did not do that back in the 70’s and 80’s)—you are a ROCK STAR!!!!!!  Yes, you have too many tabs open, your brain is constantly going (squirrel), you feel like hot mom then a hot mess all in one day and you beat yourself up because you actually are doing so much work under the surface that people can’t see but some days, just checking all the things off your list is a big deal.  I see you, I hear you, I am speaking up for you.  I use humor to mask the calamity of it all, but for years I made fun of myself, somehow I always came out on top, but always by the seat of my pants.  Today,  I better understand it, but the negative voice inside is always there, years of beating myself up for not getting it together, remembering everything, I get exhausted just thinking about it.   Procrastination is real, it weighs heavy in the body & mind of a person with ADHD, yet our ability to turn it on and power through is amazing.  The art of focus and forgetfulness, I think accepting both just feels good!   

The image with this post includes famous people with ADHD, there are so many more from world leaders, billionaires, celebrities and then there is you (or your child) who is no different from them.  So what ever crazy idea you have, go after it with abandon!  What ever vision you create, believe in it and take action.  You are gifted with a mind that is full of imagination, creativity, vision and power, you are also cursed with a world that expects you to dot all the I’s and cross off all the T’s, remember, F is part of the alphabet, and screw the I’s and T’s (someone has that), F that, step forward in your greatness (and give yourself permission to take a break, you are not lazy, you are just working over time in your brain).    Shine your light on the world!  XO 

I use affirmations a lot, mostly, I use it in my self coaching, yes, I find myself coaching myself through situations or just allowing myself kind, loving thoughts to feel grounded and show up as a better version of myself.   There are times that I actually write them out, and come up with a list and recite them, this is typically at the beginning of a season and when I am much more structured in my PDP (personal development plan)—I find myself doing both, which works for me as I don’t live a structured life all the time, for me, I am learning I like to dive out as it gives me the break I need, and the ability to create a new practice be it affirmations, gratitude, morning reading time, yoga, or what ever I do to live my HIPP life (it is always progress over perfection, it ebbs & flows, and allowing that journey to flow is freeing and real to me).  

Affirmations can be situational, meaning, you could be going through something challenging or exciting, and affirmations can help keep your mindset and belief in the right place.  For example, at this time we are in a Pandemic, and the daily mantra or affirmation “I am safe” is strong and powerful, speak that power over yourself and speak that power over those you love.  A universal mantra/affirmation that includes gratitude is “I am blessed”.  I use this all the time because I believe it, and it also can bring me back to being grounded, I am blessed and we are blessed is a core anchor in my life.   It is myself and my co-creator, my deep faith, spirituality and how I know I am guided, and supported in my journey, we are never alone, believe in more, and let power of God and the universe support you in every step.  

When it comes to affirmations, I have been doing this practice for a long time and yes, I do take breaks from it, otherwise it becomes too intense for me, I like to let my hair down and to escape the discipline it takes to practice and follow a PDP (and I am finally accepting that and being okay with that, there is a powerful energy in creating balance in all things, like work hard but rest harder, now that is how we need to live)!  

Here are some Affirmations and Mantra’s I have used over the years, again, sometimes I actually have a list I recite from, and other times I just naturally will give myself a strong “I am” statement.  I am is the most powerful words one can use, so be careful what you fill that with, and replace any negative words with empowering ones, it really does work!  

Perhaps it is time for a tune up and the way you talk to yourself, we all do it (the slams against ourselves, so why not start speaking life into ourselves which will then allow us to speak life into others.  Here we go!  

I am strong 

I am petite 

I am healthy 

I am beautiful 

I am dynamic 

I am confident 

I am powerful 

I am empowered 

I am loving

I am caring 

I am energetic

I am happy 

I am joyful 

I am peaceful  

I am fun 

I am thoughtful 

I am generous 

I am authentic 

I am mindful 

I am clear 

I am focused 

I am fit

I am yoga

I am light

I am peace

I am safe

I am free

I am spiritual 

I am kind 

I am special 

I am chosen 

I am bright 

I am vibrant 

I am talented 

I am productive 

I am blessed 

I am loved

I am love 

I realize to some (that have not really been exposed to this) might think it is weird.  I would argue that it is weird that we spend so much time beating either ourselves or others up or talking about random insignificant things and not about the importance of words, the importance of influence, mind set, and what we feed our mind and soul with.  Now seriously, think about that!!!!!   We need to feed our body nourishing food to be well, how can it be any different than what we feed our mind with?   Nourish yourself with good thoughts, positive affirmations and words of encouragement and when you do, it will spill into others!  

Words fill me up, they feed my soul and I surround myself with mantras, on my walls, on my clothing and in my life (in my heart and mind).   So, if this is not you or you want to get better at this, then allow me to get you started:

You are strong

You are smart

You are capable 

You are kind 

You are enough

You my friend, you matter 

It was National Daughter’s Day the other day, which of course, none of us realize until our social media feed starts telling us, I enjoyed seeing all the posts, all the love and the beautiful faces of so many daughters, and so many proud moms.  I know the feeling so well, and of course, as a Mom, I feel beyond blessed with my one and only, my daughter, my girl and our dream come true!  

Our Kaili is 21 years old, but if we look back, from the time she was a baby she was and still is a happy, happy, happy girl.  She truly is sunshine and radiates and lifts others up, she has always had this gift of goodness, kindness, laughter and light.  Kaili is one of those special girls and her light shines bright—while pretty on the outside, it is her inner beauty that is breathtaking, and this is what really makes her beautiful in every way.  

If I had to choose one thing, I think her kindness, her heart, compassion and empathy for others is overwhelming.  Kaili genuinely cares about people (and animals), she feels deeply, cares deeply, and she sincerely thinks about others feelings, circumstances, and wants to do what ever she can to help & support others.   Outside of my own experience of parenting, I have given thought to the question: can you teach empathy, how can you really teach kindness and when I look at my own kids (while they are far from perfect), they are pretty darn awesome and if anything, they are all kind.    Kindness matters, it matters a whole lot!  

Kaili is also observant and innate when it comes to people.  She can spot authenticity, kindness and the opposite in others and each year, I see her strengthen her resolve in who she wants to surround herself with and what she values in people.  Kaili is naturally a positive person, she is upbeat, positive, brings a healthy energy and vibe to the room and also has clarity on the vibes of others (she is observing even more the negative thoughts and energy that people bring, and she is learning to navigate this and hold her own, creating space for what she wants in her life).  

My husband says it best when he says, “she’s just cool and I love spending time with her”.  Yes, while we have been her parents her entire life, at this point, we can also call her friend—she is an absolute JOY to be around.  Her sense of humor is always on, she is funny, silly, and always laughing or looking for a laugh be it at someone’s expense or just her own (and usually at the expense of one of us, her parents and family).   She is fun, she has always had this joy inside of her, and is just fun to be with (the two of us laugh so hard at times, and it is usually at things people would not get or find funny, which makes it even funnier).  

While I am biased as her Mom, I must say, she truly is that girl that I would only dream of having as my daughter.  There are so many people in her life that feel the same or might say the same thing about her, she truly is sunshine and vibrant in so many ways.  Yes, she has her challenges and vulnerabilities and that is what makes her, her—like we all have in our own way, this balance of shining bright & also being vulnerable at various times, it is authentic, and makes us unique.   I can’t take credit for who she is, because that is her, God, and every important person in her life (yes, which does include me).  Kaili is by nature a sweet and kind soul.   I will take sweetness all day long, it truly is a strength in a girl.  I would argue we should not just raise strong women, we should raise them sweet, and kind, caring and loving (for that is our true strength), that kind heart is so powerful and is the essence of life and beauty.  

God gave me one daughter, and my "one and only" is my everything.  She’s my girl, my heart, my joy, and as I like to say, my favorite girl in the world.   She is the light of my life, she is my Kaili Georgie! 

It is that time to Fall in love with Fall.  Now more than ever, we have an opportunity to dodge the busy family schedule (aside from the remote learning for many) and truly experience the season that offers a bounty of beauty and a bounty of “feel good” feelings.   While I love all 4 seasons (especially here in New England), I must admit, I think Fall is my Fav!  

Allow me to take you on a journey of Fall not only in New England but Fall in my heart & mind.  The cool crisp mornings are a sign to pull out those big sweaters, a pair of Jeans, boots or your favorite Fall kicks and step into the season with warmth and curiosity.  A warm beverage in hand is always a good idea in the morning especially be it coffee, tea, hot cider or hot cocoa, and yes, pumpkin spice latte’ for those of you that love that flavor of the season.  

Being outside at this time of year is refreshing, the cool air, bright sun and and soon to be swirling leaves just lift the spirit and bring back this feeling of all those seasons you have experienced, and the feelings that Fall bring: warmth, comfort, revival and radiant colors, flavors and experiences of this most beautiful and meaningful season.  

Here are some HIPP TIPP’s to get your Fall game on:

—Dress for the Occassion (yes, the big chunky sweater, jeans, boots & scarf, it feels good to be in wardrobe for the season).  Wear something casual that just makes you feel good!

—Treat yourself to a fancy beverage each week (or day): spiced pumpkin latte, hot cider, chai tea, or what ever your favorite is.  

—Light a candle nightly (Fall scent that you love), this is so calming, and I know in my family, it is a clear sign of Fall—scents of the season that are simple and add a festive touch of home (look for healthy options that are safe for your home).  

—Do a Field Trip: go apple picking, on a hayride, Sunday drive (foliage sight seeing), corn maze, Farm/pumpkin patch.  

—Family/Friend Fall Hike:  either head to the mountains or just hike local, enjoy the sites, sounds and smell of Fall, friendship and getting your body moving.  

—Fall Dinner Menu:  plan dinners that celebrate the season, and make these things or if you don’t love to cook, buy and heat us.  Some ideas to get you going are Chili, Beef Stew, Chicken Soup, Mac & Cheese, Your favorite Soup, Roasted Chicken, Shepard’s Pie (YUM)!

—Gratitude Journal:  this is for those of you that say you want to practice gratitude or you do in your mind, take this season to write it down.  Just 5 things a day, you’ve got this!!!!

—Build a Fire:  Be it indoors or outdoors (gas or wood), having a fire going in the Fall is just the perfect setting for Fall afternoon or evenings, fireside chats and when you have kids (build it and they will come)!   Sitting around a fire or by the fire is so enjoyable and a great way to unwind.  Our best conversations have been our fireside chats in our home.  

—Decorate for Fall:  yes, add the colors of the seasons to your front entry and in your home.  Fall at home is enjoyable and especially when you celebrate the season in style (your style)!  

—Go for a Solo Drive!  Yes, just you (note preferably a sunny day, not a day of rain).   Be sure to do your make up, hair (even a messy bun is fine), but make sure you feel good, and go for a drive BY YOURSELF with music that pumps you up, makes you feel good, inspires you.  This right here is therapy and good for the soul, now get your Fall wardrobe on, crank the tunes and enjoy the ride!  

Fall is such a glorious season, so don’t miss out on the gifts that are in each day.  Yes, it is a bummer to see summer go, yes, this back to school time is overwhelming (and this year it sucks), but, Fall offers so much beauty, so much feeling and is such a reminder of the simple comforts of heart & home.  There is magic in each day, allow yourself to experience the spirit of the season, and the warm and fuzzy feels of Fall!   Happy Fall, Y’all!  XO

Every season I feel such an urge, such a need to re-set, to get even more clear on my vision, my goals, my life, and how it all looks in the reality of the mundane and magic of Life.   

Seasons are the most beautiful way to jump start ourselves in the direction we want to be.  At the end of each season, I find myself wanting to change something, and certainly during times like this, we are tired, we are off track, we are craving normalcy and routine (I typically feel this way every year, but this year is even more so).  Going “back to” this year is different, but let's remember that many of us have gotten “back to” after some really difficult times (and for many of us far worst in comparison).  

So, while today as I am writing this post it is Covid, keep in mind that you will always have inside of you what ever it takes to get through what you need to.  Throughout our lives we will have a need to “get back to”, and this season, if any, is the opportune time to create that momentum which will serve you now, and of course, will serve you as an example of what you are capable of.  

Allow yourself to get excited about starting a new season (yes, with a mask on, and not all the things we are used to), it is still a new season, and it is time to get back to work, back to yourself, back to feeling good, back to a healthy body, mindset, back to working on you! 

It is your time to re-set, re-ignite, re-boot, re-engage, re-invent yourself and take control of what you can, you!  This could apply to all areas of life, which usually includes the why, what and how, and that is all based upon your vision, your goals, your desires/discontents, your decisions and your actions (let that inspire you, not bring you down).   It is personal to you, you know what you want to improve, change, address, create or achieve, you just need to declare it, commit to it, create a plan and take daily action, this post will get you started!

Let's look at where we are….

2020 hit us hard, it changed our plans, it disrupted our lives, our spirits, our goals, our vision, our travel, our bodies, our thoughts, our mindset and our comfort level—we just want to either numb out or hit fast forward to get through this.  It is no wonder you feel like you are playing whack a mole or want to escape how you are feeling, there is only so much Netflix, work, exercise, food, alcohol, social media and other escapes good or bad we can lean on—and man, did we lean on them these past 6 months!    So, if you went off the rails, are feeling off track, are missing your old routine, and/or feeling stuck, I’ve got you, not because I am perfect and have it all figured out, nope, that is only for curated lifestyle experts, in other words, that is not the truth of how we live.  Let me take one for the team: I fall down, I go off track, I balance productivity with procrastination, wellness with WTF moments, the ying & yang of how we operate as humans, fortunately, I am a fighter, I get back up—you are a fighter too, so lets get back up and do this.   

So, if you need a re-set, you are in the right place, I do this often and usually each season, so let's get back to business, the business of you!  

We should have a vision for our life, dream big, believe in it, and with that vision we also need to welcome our friends vulnerability and authenticity--be brave enough to embrace the whole being, while growing, taking action, falling down, and getting back up—age has taught me this, so trust me in that process, otherwise, you are not honoring who you are, and all parts of you, they make you, you!   This season, we all need to exercise a lot more patience and empathy with ourselves and others—this takes a lot of mind set shifts and the ability to approach situations and people with warmth & kindness rather than judgement or comparison.   

Per usual, I like to have two conversations, first and foremost, "let's be real talk" (then I promise we will get to the positive resolve, game plan and how to move forward).  I’ve been down this road before and I am realizing that we never arrive, we continue on our journey, up, down and all around--the human experience, and our experience that is unique to our story and who we are, embrace it all!  

So let's be real (uncensored)…..

Let me share some of my personal experience with you and also what I have heard from some of you.  We went off the tracks, the wheels came off the bus, we gained weight (hello, working on losing my fucking Covid 15).  I freaking ate my way through this Pandemic, and I did not do Yoga (WTF, I know better, but I still went there, I am only sharing this because I know some of you did too, UGH)!   Like so many, I am feeling weighted down by this (pun intended), but thankfully, I drew the line in the sand and took action, and this month and next I am really focused on this area of my life.  Perhaps you are experiencing this too, or perhaps it is something else, or a couple of things, I get it, we all have our thing(s), and let us not be deterred by them, let's just move forward and take that next right step.  Seasons are for new beginnings, and Days are for a fresh start—how comforting to embrace that mindset rather than beating ourselves up because we failed to do this, that or the other thing….   A reminder to live in the present, and keep doing this over and over, until you build more mindfulness and focus on feeling good, and letting that be your guiding principle.  

We ALL have our thing(s), please stop beating yourself up, just know I hear you, I see you, I’m with you, and we’ve got this.  

I am you.  

There are areas of our life that I constantly talk about when it comes to Living HIPP,  when we are in a place of feeling grounded and whole, we can take this all on.  However, when we are off the wheel (and feeling more on the hamster wheel), we need to attack the area that is most important and truly serves as the foundation to it all: Wellness--mind/body/spirit.   This is the foundation, this is where to start, but it is not all about the important topics of:  Exercise, Food, Alcohol (yes, we need to look at this area as we do Food, BOOM, I said it)!  Sleep, Mindset/Mind Health (notice I didn’t say mental health, that just has an outdated & misunderstood stigma attached).   The truth is, we all have a brain, we all have a mind, and we need to constantly work on it and care for it like we do our body (how liberating and inspiring is that)!    Let’s not forget the importance of SPIRIT!  Our spirit (soul) is everything, yet we pay so little attention to this in our day to day.  For those of you not feeling in touch or are feeling curious, your spirit is your inner guide, and how it aligns with the spirit (be it God, Universe or what ever you decide has a power greater than you).  I am spiritual at my core, and for me, it makes me ME and has been the compass so far in my life journey.  I don’t have a lot of gifts to share, but one thing I know (deep inside) is that my spirit is my gift to others, not because I’m special, just because I’m me.   While my spirit is unique to me, it is not unique, the fact is, we all have our spirit, and when we silence the noise around us and go inside we unleash and listen to and follow this brilliant guide, listen to that voice inside (the encouraging one and the one that also warns you to direct you another way).   Your spirit is what we need, it is what you need—so stop comparing yourself to others on Instagram or IRL, stop getting lost in the abyss of numbing or being busy (busy is a bad four letter word), stop trying to fit in with others, and be brave enough to stand out, be brave enough to let your spirit soar!  

We have our foundation that we need to constantly work on: mind/body/spirit, this is on- going and for so many of us, we usually need a reboot, so for you, decide and access where you are and is it aligned with where you want to be?  If so, great, if not, this is your sign (reminder) to take action, and just do it one day at a time, schedule it in, dedicate time to it, create a daily plan, and “plug in” to support be it on line, friends, professionals or what ever will inspire you to shift and create the changes that you desire.  Let’s Do This!  

5 STEPS to “Get Back To You” this Season!  

1.  Vision & Goals

Set clear 30/60/90 Day Goals 

Simply ask yourself this question:  “What do I want to change, improve or create between now and the end of the year”.  Make sure you are focused on personal (because work means nothing if you are not feeling strong or whole yourself).  However, you don’t have to limit it to personal, your purpose/work/career/desire hopefully includes professional goals too.  Be sure to get clear on that, ask the question and then plot a plan.  

Vision is the end goal, and goal setting is the metrics each month (and 90 days) to take action to move toward the goal/vision.  Write these goals out (post them in your home so that you see them each day, have your year end goal (90 day), but then each month and week break it out into a plan—this does not have to all happen at once, just be sure you think it through strategically, so that you know how you will move forward.  I love monthly goals, because they are clear, achievable, and help you not be over whelmed by the vision and “how to” in getting there.  

2.  Schedule

Plan your Weekly Schedule (Sunday is a great day).  

Your calendar, schedule and/or planner be it digital or paper, is your greatest tool when it comes to living with intention, having goals and vision and creating the life you want rather than letting life happen to you.  Let this sink in and really inspire you, you own your time (sure, there are things you have to do like work/family/important obligations) but beyond that, your time is your time, use it wisely as they say and feel empowered by that, you decide what goes on the calendar (after filling in the must do’s), the greatest advise is to ask yourself are these things aligned with your goal/vision?   Think of your Vision (high level), then set Goals and schedule as your Game Plan, the way you will get from A to B is through your schedule, the intentions you set and how you spend your time (time to dedicate to activity & action items) .  

3. Morning Routine

Create a Morning Routine.  

My killer secret to getting ahead in life has been my ability to get up early and get to it!  Now, in all honesty it has changed greatly throughout the years, it has evolved as it should. And yes, I have had many days of sleeping in, responding to the day--the “oh shit” (we overslept, missed the bus, frazzled mornings are real and part of my story too)!  As a young adult/professional I got up early to get into work early to perform, that extra time made me better at my job (going above and beyond in terms of performance), and my focus then was my career, so hard work was the game plan in my 20’s—at the time it was first one in the office (or one of them) and this went on for a decade in my career.   

30’s— When my kids were young I did not have time to work out or get work done (in my small home based business).  I would get up early before them, get a walk/run in and/or work and usually both (it was the only way I could press forward toward my goals).  Today, my morning routine is so different, I have more flexibility (as it should be, I am in my 50’s), for the last decade I have spent time reading to lift my spirit/positive mindset, meditation/prayer time (btw, my meditation is a challenge, there is a family of squirrels outside my window if you know what I mean)—just breath.  Also, my mornings are not always on track, I too have days or seasons where I sleep in, scroll SM sites (big distraction for us), and not being fully present or focused (I am always a work in progress).  The beauty of the morning routine and daily schedule is that you can always hit the re-set button, and that is why we have seasons and new starts and quite frankly, new days.  I love a new calendar page, a blank page of paper to start a list, and a fresh start, it always inspires me to kick off the season, myself and my goals.  Morning time is a gift, when rise before others, and greet the day with hope, possibility, a fresh, gratitude and setting intentions.  

4.  Daily Schedule 

Create Your Daily Schedule (and Must Do’s each day)

The daily routine and schedule is really where it is at, morning routine is part of it (a smart way to seize the day, start the day, and take it on with a strong foundation).  The Daily schedule includes you writing out your schedule, your intentions, your to do’s (must do’s), and be sure that it incorporates the lifestyle you desire, and in Living HIPP--self care.  

The schedule needs to reflect the following: Be, Do, Create.  “Be" is simply how do you want to be (how do you want to feel) in mind/body/spirit and have you created dedicated time to that.  “Do" is the action steps you need to take to move in the direction toward your vision, this should include things that must happen for either work/family (dedicated time) and actions that align with your goals.  “Create" (you might have heard “be do have” which many people use), I use the word create, because it is not just about having it, it is about creating it, from the spaces you live in, to the company you keep, to the decisions you make and knowing there are no “right and wrong”, just create (don’t judge), nothings final, nothing defines you, you just create (which is an opportunity each moment and each day).  Be, Do, Create, Just Do It!!!!!!

5. Mindset Make Over 

Work Daily on Your Mindset

Each season, we need a check up on the neck up (I work in the Beauty industry and I don’t care how you apply your lipstick or concealer, the best beauty tip I can give you is to add inner beauty and mindset to your make over, every day, spend more time on this than you do on your beauty routine.  

Our mindset is everything when it comes to how we live.  More than ever, we have every reason to complain (yes, it does suck), we have every reason to be afraid and have fear (it is scary right now in our world), and we have every reason to feel vulnerable, because we are, we are not in control of a lot of things right now.   I want to remind you that you are a rock, you are solid, you can’t be broken (which is all true by the way), but it doesn’t erase the way you feel at times, so if you are feeling stuck or paralyzed at this time, you can move forward, and changing your mindset in addition to activity will help you move in the right direction.  The only way we can get unstuck is by exercising our mind and body (simple but hard)—when in doubt, walk it out (a walk in nature just soothes the soul).    

There are so many tools you can use to work on your mindset, I talk a lot about this stuff, because these are the tools I use, not all at once, that would be too overwhelming, but depending upon the season & the reason, I choose what works for me, and I also try my best to incorporate the must do’s daily: daily gratitude, podcast, personal development book, morning mediation/prayer, exercise (walk outside), laugh/dance/sing (express myself), cheer on others (this lifts my spirit and just feels good), visualization (usually while I walk), pictures (they inspire me), words (quotes, words and their meanings inspire me).   What inspires you?  Create these images in your spaces, and allow yourself time to take it in.  

More Tools to Use: affirmations, mirror talk, challenges: (for example don’t gossip this week or practice not judging others), journaling, set intentions, create or select mantras, vision board, self talk/affirmations audios, recognition (gifting others, compliments, seeing the best in others), advocacy (standing up for others in the name of kindness), acts of kindness, positive people, courage to be vocal/positive, courage to be different, love as a leadership principle (base things on love), self compassion (when we put ourselves down, which we all do, expressing empathy toward ourselves and other), themes, songs, music, action words that redirect you and build you up.  It’s all about the vibe, I don’t always feel it (and man there are days I just don’t) but when I feel that way, I seek it, I create it, and I have those moments of joy, clarity or happy moments that lift me up.   Give yourself permission to do these things, and if you are not all in or feeling it on a certain day, give yourself the okay to try tomorrow (progress over perfection is the constant mantra in you living your HIPP life).  

So hopefully this has you thinking, and will inspire you to break through the barriers that 2020 or life has brought you, and embrace a spirit of the season, and create positive change.  I constantly need to remind myself that “Rome was not built in a day and neither were you”, so progress over perfection in all areas of life (it can not be said enough).  You don’t need to change who you are, quite the contrary, you just need to be who you are, unapologetically and love that person and those around you fiercely.  

Cheers to the Fall Season of 2020 and cheers to you!  XO