Sometimes a direction appears for you without your consent and in spite of your “trying” to do otherwise, and often this direction is exactly the way you need to proceed.  ALLOW!

LISTEN for the wisdom in it, and become open to trusting that there is a bigger plan than the one in your [...]]]>

Sometimes a direction appears for you without your consent and in spite of your “trying” to do otherwise, and often this direction is exactly the way you need to proceed.  ALLOW!

LISTEN for the wisdom in it, and become open to trusting that there is a bigger plan than the one in your heart and head, and that the one in your heart is actually a big part of the bigger plan!

Embrace this generous guidance that will actually get you exactly where you need to be in better fashion and with greater purpose than if walk the path your own way!

Any time you want, you can speak to yourself and be that Encouraging Happy Coach or that Objective Get-Aligned Voice  for your own well-being.

If you know me, you know I am a [...]]]> Guess what! You have a million dollar tool right where those pearly whites sit. NO, you have a MAZILLION DOLLAR tool right there!

Any time you want, you can speak to yourself and be that Encouraging Happy Coach or that Objective Get-Aligned Voice  for your own well-being.

If you know me, you know I am a big supporter of mentoring–being mentored and mentoring others. I think having a mentor or coach, or being in a mastermind group with a team of “peer coaches” is fabulous for personal development and business growth.

Having others that will speak into your life is such a gift, and it is quite empowering!

Even more empowering is having that gift with you at all times, and YOU DO!

From your own mouth comes the words of a friend, a parent, a confidant, a coach, a spiritual leader,  a mentor and a business guru!

YES, you can speak to yourself on any day and at any time,  with the words you have been taught–the words that have worked to lift you up out of the muck, and that have worked to position you into great and marvelous places!

No matter where you are, TURN ON your POWER VOICE!

When you are in the car, give yourself a great speech.

When you are in the shower, sing an encouraging and uplifting song your spirit can get a hold of.

When you are alone by the lake, offer yourself a word of enlightenment and excitement about all that is yours to do and accomplish!

YES, YOU are the one. YOU are the friend that is always with you, so why not fuel that power?

DECIDE, everyday, to speak to yourself with a song, a poem, a business principle, a mini-sermon, a “You Got This”, speech, and see if it doesn’t totally transform the way you live and work, and the way you bring your gifts to others!

Love & Hugs!

Margo

P.S. Please leave a comment below to share some of the things you say to encourage yourself, and feel free to share some of the crazy places you are when you say them!

Have you ever felt temporarily erased from your mission?

We all have.

Sometimes, in spite of our best efforts, we get side-tracked, side [...]]]> Have you ever had a day, a week, a season where you felt truly spent, or simply discouraged  by what is coming at you or by what is going on around you?

Have you ever felt temporarily erased from your mission?

We all have.

Sometimes, in spite of our best efforts, we get side-tracked, side swiped, or thrown off course.  Occasionally we may find ourselves in a situation we did not expect to be in (or a situation we don’t even know how to fix, repair, or correct without a few scuffs, scrapes and bruises for ourselves and others). 

This morning I was inspired to start my iPhone camera and share this short video message with you.  I have been sensing that many people are going through some gunk right now. This word comes from my heart to yours.

Here is a word of encouragement and a simple way to push through trials, random mishaps, and adversity, so you can stay on purpose in your business, ministry, life-work, and with your mission!

 Peek at this short video, then leave a comment on how you have dealt with bumps on your own road to success and happiness!

I had a chance to interview my business buddy and friend, powerhouse Judy Wilfong, author of the book “It’s your Business, It’s your Future”.

I know Judy through [...]]]>

What a fantastic Brilliance-Session we had today at Women of Splendor.

I had a chance to interview my business buddy and friend, powerhouse Judy Wilfong, author of the book “It’s your Business, It’s your Future”.

I know Judy through the Interior Design industry. She and I have sat together as chairs on panels and roundtables, and we have taught fun and valuable seminars together for small business owners who were willing to invest in themselves to succeed.

I have always admired Judy, from the day I met her years ago to today. With a mind for doing things the right way and a lovely personal style that draws others to her like a magnet, she is a person you want to know. She is the REAL DEAL and a class act, and she knows a thing or two about success!

With yearly sales figures that would blow the mind of most small business owners and that cause savvy business-people to seek her out as a mentor, Judy talks her talk from real-life, real-business personal experience. She has personally served several THOUSANDS of clients over the years, and has honed consultation selling to an art-form, just by being sincere and caring about her customers and clients. Her sales numbers are to be envied.

There’s no fluff or pie-in-the-sky with Judy. She is a true business success story, with big sales number and profits to prove it, and she wants you to get all the take-always you need to succeed.

In my interview with Judy, she shared some of the delicious goodies within her new book, “It’s your Business, It’s your Future” (click on the book to get your copy from Amazon), covering so much for us with her great insight, from the common but deadly mistakes business owners often make (even the ones who do not think they are making crucial mistakes), to the critical in-house MUST-Do’s every business owner has to embrace to keep from closing their doors. Her tips of brilliance will cause you to thrive and prosper in your business!

Judy, THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing your wealth of know-how with the Women of Splendor community. It was great fun!

Well, I have some really exciting news and I just [...]]]> Have you thought about how you could once and for all touch a lot of lives with your wisdom, doing meaningful work that you love? Have you ever wanted to be in the spotlight so that you could make a big difference for others?

Well, I have some really exciting news and I just want to shout it out loud!

Christine Marmoy, is a friend and business colleague, and she invited me to become an International Published Author in her anthology ‘Success in (High) Heels – 30 Day Diet Feast to Success!’

The entire book is amazing, and filled with lessons to show you how success can truly reveal itself when we dare to walk forward towards our dream or vision one step at a time. But, there is so much more to the book than even that.

Christine’s mission is all about collaboration and innovation, and showing women how to become great while being true to who they are. Success in (High) Heels – 30 Day Diet Feast to Success represents Christine’s mission in a much bigger way because it also gives a voice to the mission of 30 dedicated and authentic business women and success mentors from all over the world–women who are making tracks and making a big difference for self and others. In the book, each of these women has something for you that will quickly change your life and business for the better.

Have you ever felt like just giving up and throwing in the towel?

Maybe you (like all of the authors in this book) have experienced running on empty and feeling ‘juiceless’ when you thought you should have been at the top of your game. Have you ever thought or said, ‘What is wrong with me?’…. if you have, then what you need is a good, zesty dose of ‘Practical Inspiration’.

In this book (that hits shelves today), YOU will get direct access to 30 success experts who share their knowledge with you to get you stepping quickly into your amazing success (you can meet them all here). This book is the Must Read of the year!   With just a little stretch on your part and just a little bit of daring, I PROMISE you can achieve that big DREAM!

Every one of the women showcased in this fantastic, life changing book has been right where you are and has faced the same struggles at some point in their business life and now, look, they are in the book! Best of all, each on of the  success mentors gives you a targeted lesson and a strategic ACTION STEP you can apply right away to experience your own wild success!

The first step is to get the book! When you DARE to take that STEP, you CASH IN ($$$)! This phenomenal anthology is not just another compilation of random book chapters on success and marketing!  YOU MUST NOT MISS THIS! Success in High Heels represents a big step forward so you dare to do things in another way to get much different, and greater RESULTS!

This book holds within it a ‘Shake the World’ movement that YOU can and should be a part of. If you know Christine Marmoy, then you know she really DOES IT! She sets her ideas on fire and shares them big time with others, and people succeed through them! So please don’t delay. Get the book and quickly discover new ways, better ways, to propel your business upwards (and even to boost your mindset and your health), and overall create the life that you really want, now!

This is the best ever marketing book!

It’s the best ever mindset book, too!
Grab your copy right now.

GO HERE TO ORDER YOURS!

Or, meet the authors right here!

Trust me, you do not want to miss this book!

Please share in the comments below: have you seen the book, did you get the book, or will you be getting the book and why?
 
Margo
 

P.S. Here is a list of the International Best Selling Authors and the title of each chapter. There is a chapter for each day in any given month. Each chapter is written as a lesson with a clear and easy to apply action exercise so you can see your success unfold before your eyes.

1  How to Dress for Authentic Success
Sue Donnelly

2  Passion, Power, Purpose: transforming your hobby into a way of life
Bunny Star

3  Taking the “T” Out of Can’t
Kelly Falardeau

4  Your Business Depends on Your Health: The 8 P’s of creating a solid wellness foundation
Anna D. Garrett

5  Kick Your Fear of Aging
Angelika Christie

6  Reveal Your Brand with Beauty
Dorothy-Inez Del Tufo

7  The Power Beneath Me
Noni Boon

8  Impact Your Business by Discovering the Wisdom of Your Sensual Goddess
Lillian Ogbogoh

9  Your Lighthouse and Your Anchor
Angela Raspass

10  Find Time for Success
Lisa Rehurek

11  A Call to Lead the Way
Shawn Driscoll

12  Do I Dare More?
Aime Hutton

13  Getting Out of Your Own Way
Jasmin Christensen

14  Days to Facebook Mastery
Toni Coleman Brown

15  Living Life UnFulfilled
Monique Alamedine

16  Home is Where the Heart Is
Kim Boudreau Smith

17  Strut Your Way to Success with a Thought-Leader Brand
Catrice M. Jackson

18  Transitions: A personal path through change
Nancy Meadows

19  Feminine Pricing Power: How to confidently step into leadership for your clients, your colleagues, and your industry by earning you’re worth
Miki Strong

20  Win-Win-Win Collaborations
Patty Farmer

21  Change the World…One Audience at a Time
Ava Diamond

22  Good Copywriting in Your Business: Why it matters and how to create it yourself
Lisa Rothstein

23  Wild Success through Mastermind Brilliance
Margo DeGange

24  There is No Success Without Love
Kathleen Hanagan

25  Building Your Business from the Circle of One
Kuumba Nia

26  A Whole New World- Learn Why You Need Twitter
Ana Lucia Novak

27  A Woman of Influence-How to rise to success with social media and video marketing
Kat Mikic

28  Tearing Down the Walls – The Road to Innovation
Katrin Faensen

29  Attract Success in Business and Life
Terry Wildermann

30  There are No Borders to a Woman’s Power
Christine Marmoy
 
Get the Book Today!

When that drive is strong, you find a way to fund it!  You find a way to buy yourself the freedom you must have [...]]]> Lifestyle Design is to a great extent knowing your core mission in life, what drives you everyday, and what you know you are here to do in each season of life.

When that drive is strong, you find a way to fund it!  You find a way to buy yourself the freedom you must have in order to live it!  Even if your passion is helping others, you must have the freedom to do that.

Part of your livelihood is in creating valuable offerings others need and want so you can finance the Lifestyle Design you envision, and have the freedom to continue in that BIG and MEANINGFUL work you are called to do (no matter how big or small it really is).

This involves managing the delivery of what you offer, too (delegation, team building, innovation, systems, etc).

What are YOU doing to create YOUR lifestyle Design?

Please, share your comments, thoughts, experiences, or reflections below!

Here’s HOW to Get it!

Did you know that IF you are aligned with Source (i.e. God), and you have a burning desire for something (for example a thriving business, enough money to live your desired lifestyle with extra to help others, a great marriage or relationship, meaningful [...]]]> What You Desire Already Exists.

Here’s HOW to Get it!

Did you know that IF you are aligned with Source (i.e. God), and you have a burning desire for something (for example a thriving business, enough money to live your desired lifestyle with extra to help others, a great marriage or relationship, meaningful life-work that touches many lives, or more free time for your children), that thing you desire already exists for you? OH YES, it does, because if you are aligned with Source, then that desire is given to you by Source (put in your heart by Source), and at that point it is yours to have. Still, you have to take the faith steps to go get it, and if you really believe it is yours, then you WILL take the steps. Here’s HOW!

You first have to wake up and get clear about what you really want. That good desire is what it’s all about! Just ask yourself “What do I want”? Become acutely aware of it.

Next, you have to let go of what is behind and go towards the promise. For example, if you want a renewed and better relationship, or a business that makes big money, you MUST let go of the old, and that includes the thinking and mindset that is attached to the old. You MUST let go and go forward toward something TOTALLY NEW. This requires a paradigm SHIFT (a totally new thinking modality around that thing) so that new and empowered actions can replace the old ones.

Then you have to take a step out! We cannot grow or experience amazing new things if we cling to the comfort of the familiar and known (the known that is NOT working by the way). This faith-walk towards your desire requires completely cutting the ties to what is not working, so that all you have as an option is your forward motion towards your new promised land! You CANNOT go back (or back and forth) or you will not receive your desire.

Finally, you walk each step, and you do not stop until you experience the goal. The promise of the extraordinary lies in taking that first step of faith, and then the next step as it appears to you (and each step WILL appear as you take the previous step, but only after you take it). 

So there is THE HOW to your desire! To recap, become fully awake and aware of what you definitively want, follow it with letting go of the old with no chance of going back, take the first step (action) towards the new, then take each subsequent step as they appear, until you finally reach your desire. THAT is the faith walk of the entrepreneur!

This is a cute little turtle that was crossing the road.

I thought I had to save him but he actually saved himself.

Here’s a great one minute video lesson (roughly) on the simplicity of accomplishing our life dreams and business goals.

~Margo

Margo DeGange,

Business & Lifestyle Designer

Success in high heels-30 Day Feast to Success!

This book is a collaborative effort of 30 authors and expert business women, including [...]]]> I am so thrilled to let you know about the book,

Success in high heels-30 Day Feast to Success!

This book is a collaborative effort of 30 authors and expert business women, including myself, who have a great deal to share with success-minded women across the globe!

This is an international effort that will launch in a number of countries early this Spring, with success lessons for every business woman on the planet!

My esteemed colleagues and I have worked hard to bring you this important work, and we know it will have a tremendous impact on you and countless others.

Forget staying stuck in a rut. This book, Success in High Heels-30 Day Feast to Success is your ticket out and up. It will elevate you to higher ground and new horizons, where you can reach your highest potential.

I am tremendously proud to have been asked to be a part of this meaningful work that will forever be a tool that serious business women use to gain an edge and to make their mark on the world!

Stay tuned for the launch! In the meantime, go here to learn all about the book and its phenomenal authors! 

 Go here to learn all about the book and its phenominal authors

and to ORDER YOUR COPY!

Success in High Heels-30 Day Feast to Success!  (Softcover)

 Love and Hugs!

 ~Margo

P.S. please leave a comment below! One of my visitors will win a FREE COPY of the book Success in high heels-30 Day Feast to Success, personally signed by me, with an extra surprise!

A sneak peak of my video for the book, Success in High Heels: 30 Day Feast to Success!

My chapter in this exciting collaborative book is all about Wild Success through Mastermind Brilliance! (I have the goods [...]]]> Guess what I have for you?

A sneak peak of my video for the book, Success in High Heels: 30 Day Feast to Success!

My chapter in this exciting collaborative book is all about Wild Success through Mastermind Brilliance! (I have the goods on what’s in my chapter at the end of this post).

You can see my video on creating YOUR very OWN mastermind group (as well as the videos of my beautiful colleagues and highly esteemed co-authors) right here.

Have fun watching.

If you like what you see then order the book! It is a BEST SELLER!

I would love for you to leave me a comment under my video, which enters you to win a FABULOUS prize from me, part of the launch celebration for this fantastic anthology!

This book is choc full of success tips, formulas, and exercises and is just for YOU.

Watch my video right here (and leave me a comment)!

Love & GIANT Hugs!

~Margo

 ORDER THE BOOK! (soft cover)

See What’s in the Book:

MASTERMINDS! You’ve likely heard the term or brushed shoulders with the concept in some way. NOW it’s your time to fully embrace masterminds as a business tool to finally accomplish your most significant goals and realize your most meaningful dreams.

In my chapter of Success in High Heels: 30 Day Diet Feast to Success, I bring you into the world of mastermind groups, and show you how to skillfully lead your own mastermind, or share in one as a member for wild success! I help you understand the concept of tapping into that giant, super cool MASTER-mind for exponential growth and over-the-top business-building success!  You get everything you need right in my chapter.

I start with Your Mastermind Lesson to give you a great foundation on which to build. Here I cover what a mastermind actually is, what the groovy juicy benefits are, and I reveal just how it all works, from the role of the facilitator (leader) to the “Hot Seat” experience. I also share a fabulous meeting format I personally use with great success!

Next, you get to be privy to my 12 crucial MUST HAVE Mastermind Mindset Tips for solid thinking and abundance that moves you and your colleagues forward with hearts and minds that are wonderfully knit together. I include in the conversation everything from intentions, goals, discomfort and empowerment, to motion, muck, commitment and accountability.

Finally, I’ll conclude with Your Mastermind Action Exercise where I reveal my 10-Step No-Bull Master Plan so you can step out in your swanky high-heels (or flats) and start your very own mastermind group right away. You get the full-scoop, including examples of how to name your mastermind, tips for deciding on things like the size of your group, when and where to have it, how to meet, for how long, and whether yours should be free or fee-based.

Lastly, as an added bonus with your book purchase, I even give you two very detailed agendas you can use for all of your mastermind meetings! I left nothing out!

Whether you want to successfully lead a mastermind or participate  as a group-member full-throttle, this chapter is a goldmine of knowledge, tips, how-to’s and inspiration! Get the book so you don’t miss out on all of the possibilities just waiting for you!

I put together this 5 minute audio to help you make a huge difference in your life, and to support you in seeing all the possibilities come true for you!

There is a GAP between the things that you want—the POSSIBILITIES, and the things that you have in your life right now—The REALITIES!

I put together this 5 minute audio to help you make a huge difference in your life, and to support you in seeing all the possibilities come true for you!

Here’s the audio! Enjoy!

After you listen, SHARE your experiences with small steps in the comments section below, and THANKS! Your comments words mean a lot to me and to others!

Have a blessed week!

Margo

I was excited about the opportunity there to open up the conversation about Extreme Self-Care and loving yourself first.

Have you ever run around like a mad dog on this holiday trying to find just the right gift to prove to someone that you really love them?

I think [...]]]>  With February being the month of  Valentine’s Day, 

I was excited about the opportunity there to open up the conversation about Extreme Self-Care and loving yourself first.

Have you ever run around like a mad dog on this holiday trying to find just the right gift to prove to someone that you really love them?

I think we all have. I also think many of us have run around ragged on many occasions, not just Valentine’s Day, doing everything for everyone as we watch ourselves slowly melt away or fade into the background.

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself.

Ahh, the Golden Rule we all want to live by, but first we ought to know what that really means.

There is an assumption in the Golden Rule, which is that you already love yourself. You cannot love anyone from a place of truth unless you love yourself first, otherwise it is not real, honest, aligned and authentic love.

It is time we take back ourselves, so the work we do each and everyday comes from a place of meaning.

Extreme Self-Care is not about doing radical things to overly pamper yourself.  NO!  Extreme Self-Care is about you being radical about your decision to take care of you and put yourself first so that you are healthy and awake as you connect with others. It involves not thinking of yourself more highly than you ought to, sure, but that doesn’t mean you place yourself on the bottom either. You cannot be any good for others if you are weak, sick, underpowered, used-up, stuck, unhappy, overworked, or walking in daily discouragement.

As a rational, loving human being you would never consider abusing another person, or an animal, or anything really. Yet so many great people abuse themselves. Somehow we think that’s OK, that it is not abuse if you do it to yourself, and it is not abuse if it’s the result of simply not paying attention.

If you wouldn’t do it to someone else, don’t do it to yourself.

Extreme Self-Care is simple. Extreme Self-Care means being extreme about embracing your responsibility to care for the only one you have total control over, and the only one you have been charged with caring for every minute of every day.

Extreme Self-Care is really about gentleness and simplicity, and loving yourself first.

I asked 25 experts (including myself) at the top of their game to share their thoughts on Extreme Self-Care, or on one aspect of it as a tribute to you on Valentine’s Day and as an impetus and motivating charge to take care of you so you will be there on may more occasions to love and encourage others!

So now let’s take a look at what these inspirational mentors, coaches, success experts, and thought-leaders want you to know to about Extreme Self-Care!

Warmly,

~Margo

P.S. This collaborative blog post is on a Pinterest board!

If you happen to be a Pinterest fan, go visit me there at http://pinterest.com/margodegange  and repin your favorite Extreme Self-Care tips from this blog post.  Look for the Pinterest Board names, “Our Experts Talk On Extreme Self-Care!”

Also, please SHARE this blog post through the social media icons below the post and on the left sidebar.  I would also LOVE to read your COMMENTS below! THANKS!  

   Ann Thomas, Founder, Evolving Goddess

Welcome to February – the month of love. Today, I want you to commit to falling in love with the most important person in the world – YOU! How? By practicing Radical Self-Love. Radical Self-Love is a practice, not a destination. It consists of four cornerstones.

Here are the four cornerstones of Radical Self-Love:

1. Connect to the Divine presence WITHIN you. There is an all-knowing, wise part of you that already has all the answers you need. Turn within!

2. Honor your body temple. One great tip is to take time during your shower to express gratitude for each part of your body.

3. Cultivate Emotional Authenticity. Give yourself time and space to check in and express your genuine emotions. As you do, you will gain clarity, freedom, and joy.

4. Master Your Mind. Like a bodyguard, stand guard at the front of your mind and make sure that you bounce any thought that causes you harm. If it makes you feel bad, then it’s a thought that is not worth having. Take the time to change it.

You have to work on EACH of the cornerstones consistently to achieve unshakable, radical, to the core self-love!

Website: http://www.EvolvingGoddess.com

Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/evolvinggoddess

Twitter: http://www.Facebook.com/evolvinggoddess

Blaze Lazarony, Chief Visionary Officer at Blaze A Brilliant Path

A colorful sign hangs over my desk with a quote written by me reads:

“Be Who You Love & Love Who You Be”

I’ve been a lover of inspirational quotes since I was in high school, they’ve guided me through some really dark times and inspired me to keep lighting up the world with my unique brilliance.

I encourage you to print out this quote, or search the internet for a quote that empowers you to love yourself and who you are being in this world. Allow your quote to remind you to learn to love all of you–the parts of you that are intelligent, purposeful, and sexy, as well as your quirky and weird parts too—because all of these qualities make you radiant and brilliant.

Turn on your self-love light and let it shine!

Website: http://www.BlazeABrilliantPath.com

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/barbaralazarony

Twitter: www.twitter.com/blazelazarony

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlazeABrilliantPathwithBarbaraLazarony

Lisa Rehurek, Founder & CEO, MissSimplicity

Time is one of our most precious resources, yet we abuse our time more than any other resource that we have. We tend to think about time as something we will always need more of, something we will never quite get control of. In reality, it affects our physical and emotional health at a much deeper level than most people realize. Our lack of control on how we spend our time negatively affects our leisure activities, and increases stress and anxiety. This leads to declining emotional and physical well-being.

In order to live our most fulfilling lives, to live at the peak of happiness, we must be able to enjoy our hobbies, laugh, relax, and be present in our relationships. If we are not living at our peak potential and in complete fulfillment, we are unable to give to others at the level that we desire. So take time to do what makes you happy. Take time to be fully present in your relationships with friends and family.

Take time to love yourself, so you can be your best self for those around you.

Website: http://www.Miss-Simplicity.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/managemytime

Twitter: https://twitter.com/misssimplicity

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissSimplicity

Noni Boon, Graphic Designer + Life Designer

Learning to Love Myself

I was not born loving myself. It is something I have come to learn. It started of as inkling and then became a need. I grew to love myself as I achieved goals and came to realise that I could rely on myself. I often take myself on a date and now I really enjoy my own company. In fact, I crave my own quiet time, especially after having a lot of contact with other people. I have taken the time to really get to know my likes, dislikes, passions, desires and every minute detail about myself.

Knowing myself better helps me to love myself and accept myself for who I am. I am intimately familiar with my weaknesses as well as my strengths, my light as well as my shadow. I have grown into being comfortable and happy with myself. May I suggest that you spend the time getting to know yourself so that you can begin to have a fulfilling relationship with yourself? It’s worth the time and effort. Embrace every aspect of yourself. Laugh at yourself. Feel proud of yourself. Commit to yourself and no matter what happens, depend on yourself. When push comes to shove, you are all that you have got!

Website: http://www.bidesignco.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bidesignco

Stacy Nelson, Coach at LivingImPerfect & Founder iCoachNetwork  

I’m listening to my client rumble and grumble on the other end of the line. Every little thing about her current launch is driving her over the edge and by the way, her husband didn’t even do the dishes yesterday like he said he would and I can tell that I’m about to lose control of the coaching session unless I end the ‘poor me’ routine. She’s having one of those moments where the little stuff is overwhelming and becomes a completely insurmountable obstacle. And so I repeat to her my mantra – the ones my clients and friends know by heart – “Your car won’t run without gas. How empty is your gauge right now?”. And after a long pause, she gets it. In that moment, the best thing for her and her launch isn’t to power through and keep going, it is to step away and make a coffee date with a girlfriend.

If you are an Entrepreneur then your business is not separate from your life and from who you are. Everything about you is reflected in what you’re putting out into the world and in fact the success of your business depends on you having a full tank all of the time. People respond to other people when they are happy and fulfilled. They like happy people and want to be around them, buy from them and be like them. If you’re stressed out and overwhelmed people will feel that (even if you’re pretending to be happy) and you will not be their go-to person. When you practice self care every day as part of your life, you are able to approach your business activities from a place of abundance and joy and your clients will love you for it.

Website: http://www.LivingImPerfect.com

Website: http://www.iCoachNetwork.com

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/stacynelson

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/StacyNelson

Facebook: http://www.facebook/LivingImPerfect

Dr. Anna Garrett, Chief Mojo Officer

Where are you on your to-do list?

Top, bottom, nowhere in sight?

Women by nature tend to be givers. And they give until there is nothing left. They believe that self-care is selfish, when nothing could be further from the truth.

When we don’t fill our own wells, we have nothing to give to others.

If you’re not on your to-do list, start with baby steps to create a new way of doing things. Try giving yourself 30 minutes a day to do whatever will make your heart sing in that amount of time. Read, take a walk, meditate, soak in a hot tub…whatever. Just make sure that you schedule it and that everyone in your life knows that you are putting up a big “DO NOT DISTURB” sign during that time. Enjoy!

Website: http://www.drannagarrett.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/adgarrett1

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/drannagarrettt/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drannagarrett

Steve Gutzler, Founder and President of Leadership Quest  

Let’s face it,  leaders are people lovers and givers at heart,  and if they’re not careful they can give at a level that is unsustainable.

That was my fatal flaw two decades ago as I wrestled with a blood disorder that nearly took me out of the leadership game.

The experience taught me not to neglect getting revitalizing sleep, enjoying recreation, fueling myself with wise nutrition, and getting regular consistent exercise.

My pace now resembles more of a walk than a sprint, and God willing,  I’ll be here for at least a couple more strong decades!

Website: http://www.SteveGutzler.com

Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/Stevegutzler

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/SteveGutzler

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SteveGutzlerLeadershipQuest

Christine Marmoy, MBA, Magnetic Marketing Mentor & Dream Team Designer for Women Entrepreneurs

Love is The Key

No matter how professional, dedicated and driven you are, there is one element you cannot dismiss without taking the risk of losing the reason why you are so motivated to begin with. You cannot expect to run a successful business, live a fulfilling life without taking care of yourself first.

Taking care of myself came under the form of love. For me love was the key. Loving myself enough to be willing to give myself some time, give my business a drastic makeover and give my environment the boot.

1. Give myself some time

The notion of vacation was really not clear in my head or in my calendar, however this year it became a priority. So when I say I’m off, it shows in my calendar and my computer is turned off. My ‘me’ time is schedule just like any other appointments because I’m that worth it.

2. Give my business a drastic makeover

Since 2012 but even more this year, everything I do under the name of my business has only one drive: I must love what I do at 100% otherwise I don’t even think about it. Every business decision goes through my ‘lovameter’.

3. Give my environment the boot

I used to hate where I was living, the lack of city life, the people, the cold, everything. End of 2012 we moved to Spain in a very ‘Paradise’ like place….I have it all to be happy: sun, blue sky, beach, city life….

The bottom line is that you call the shot. But remember that you are the one running the show and if you can’t run anymore, the show dies. Get into the habit of scheduling time for you, listen to your body and just do what you love to do….life is too short.

Website: http://www.CoachandSuccess.com

Website: http://www.TheWomensEdgeMag.com

Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/ChristineMarmoy

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/CoachandSuccess

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/WomensEdgeMag

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/CoachingandSuccess

Charlotte Chipperfield, Founder & Wine Educator, The Wine Key

The moment you feel like throwing in the towel, giving up and booking a one-way ticket to a tropical island, is the moment you should sit still, be silent and stop thinking.

Instead of printing that boarding pass, grab your favorite book, watch your favorite movie, meditate, soak in a bubble bath, hug a teddy bear, and sip your favorite wine. It doesn’t matter what it is that comforts you. Just give yourself a timeout, much like when we were kids. Get lost in the moment. This will serve as an opportunity to regroup and to feel whatever it is we need to feel.

Giving ourselves a break and getting a good night’s sleep brings a sense of renewal and provides a fresh mind to create solutions to the problems which had us throwing towels around in the first place. Remember, each day we get a fresh start and by frequently hitting the pause button, (and perhaps indulging in some wine), we can show up refreshed and less stressed which will better prepare us for the day.

Website: http://www.the-wine-key.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/chipperc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWineKey

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheWineKey

Patty Lennon, Life Coach, CEO of Mom Gets A Life  

What does it even mean to love yourself?  That was a question that floated around my head for years. As a self help addict I had read every book out there on how to improve your life and there was almost always a reference to “self-love” but I never quite got it. That was until one day I heard Cheryl Richardson ask “Do you have your own back?” and all of the sudden self-care and self-love came into crystal clear focus. Extreme self care means being relentless about having your own back. We teach the world how to treat us by the way we treat ourselves. If we want to feel safe and loved and have an abundant life we must first be willing to be there 150% for ourselves first. Once we hold that attitude the “what” we need to do to care for ourselves become obvious.”

Website: http://www.MomGetsALife.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/pattylennon/

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/momgetsalife

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/momgetsalife

Christine Arylo, Best-selling author of ‘Choosing ME Before WE’ and ‘The Self-Love Handbook Madly in Love with ME: The Daring Adventure of Becoming Your Own Best Friend’

Imagine what your life would be like from this day forward if in the moments when your inner critic wanted to tear you down, in the times you got scared to go for your dreams, or in the instances when you felt exhausted and needed a rest, you were able to wrap your arms around yourself, and give yourself permission to do exactly what you needed – without guilt, fear or judgment. This is what is possible when you make the choice to love yourself unconditionally and as a result choose to show up as a best friend, no matter what. A daring adventure indeed, but the only way really to live – in love, with yourself.

Website: http://www.christinearylo.com

Website: http://www.madlyinlovewithme.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/christinearylo/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChristineArylo

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/christine.arylo

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MadlyInLoveWithMe?ref=hl

Margo DeGange, M.Ed., Business & Lifestyle Designer,  Author, Speaker, Founder of Women of Splendor.

We all know it, in life, in business, and in terms of caring for and loving self, the things that cause us to flourish,  succeed, and prosper are so simple, we almost miss them!

Our lives are busy, and we have many roles and more than we care to think about in terms of responsibilities. It is so easy to neglect ourselves. When we notice we are doing so, it’s time to reign it in.

My son Ryan’s girlfriend Danielle said something to me a while back when I was seeking to change a few things in my diet. She said, “It’s not about taking away. It’s about adding”!

That is unusually wise advice for a girl just beginning her twenties, but it is some of the wisest advice I ever received!

I have thought about what she said so many times, and in so many areas of life. Instead of looking to get rid of what I don’t want, how about if i simply add what I do want? What a refreshing re-focus!

Several years ago I put together a list that for me included everything I needed in my life to live well and to nurture myself. If all of these things were a part of my life on a regular basis (not just now and then), I would really feel healthy and whole.  It was really a self-care list, which I added to over time!  I am sharing it with you here!

As you look at the list and perhaps consider embracing it as a guidepost for your own self -care and wellness, keeping in mind Danielle’s words for EACH of the categories on the list, “It’s not about taking away. It’s about adding”!

When, where and how can you ADD into your life each one of the 14 items on the list? When where and how can you ADD greater quality, more variety, or richer nuances to each of those areas as well?

1. Fresh Air, Sunshine & Nature

2. Water & Hydration

3. Movement, Exercise & Physical Touch

4. Healthy Eating & Nutrition

5. Rest & Sleep

6. Prayer & Mediation

7. Love & Friendships

8. Service & Community

9. Creativity  & Artistic Outlet

10. Knowledge, Wisdom & Intellectual Stimulation

11. Pleasing & Supportive Interior Environments

12. Fun, Humor & Adventure

13. Spiritual Growth

14. Meaningful Work

Website: http://www.MargoDeGange.com

Website: http://www.WomenOfSplendor.com

Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/MargoDeGange

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/MargoDeGange

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/YourBusinessCoach

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/WomenOfSplendor

Beth Schneider Wachner,  CEO of  Process Prodigy

To me self care is about so much more than the occasional massage. It’s not just about those occasional things you do for yourself, it’s about the bigger picture. It’s about deciding what’s important and determining how you want to live your life. Then it’s about creating that situation on a day-to-day basis so self care just becomes part of your routine.

Start by deciding what’s important to you. Is it spending time with your family, cooking, creating a passion driven business, doing yoga every day? Is it having a beauty routine that includes regular massages, is it travel, is it your spiritual life? Is it other things? Is it all of these things? Once you decide what you want, you can design your life to include all the things that matter most…and that’s the ultimate self care.

Website: http://www.ProcessProdigy.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/processprodigy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/processprodigy

Stacie Jensen, Image Consultant and Co-Founder of Only 1 You

Go ahead be selfish. You deserve it!

Giving your best to someone, starts with giving your best to #1-YOU!  There are endless ways to do so, that don’t take a lot of time, money or even, thought!

Here are few ways to get you started:

#1: Tea. Ahhh tea…what a wonderful way to relax, calm your body, mind & spirit and just be. 15 minutes and you can finish a soothing cup of tea and be on your way – be sure to drink one that has an inspirational saying on the tea bag tag too! To me, Tea stands for Take Enough Always.

#2: Read. Ahhh reading…another perfect way to fill your mind with new things – take 15 minutes at the beginning of each day to read something positive/inspirational, a chapter from a classic story, a children’s story – you will be glad you did and will find it hard to stop at 15 minutes

#3: Facial. Ahhh Facial, nothing better and you can do it yourself! There are many products out there and recipes to make wonderful facials from products in your kitchen – take the time, it will cleanse and refresh you! 15 minutes and you are done!

#4: Smile. Ahhh smile….it’s what you should do when you wake up and before you lay down to sleep. Every time you look in the mirror, smile at YOU. Smile at someone you don’t know just smile. It is magical and is the simplest way to change your mood and your day. S M I L E!

I will stop here for now…..are you smiling still?

Website: http://www.only1youexpo.com

Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/MikiStrong

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com

Dawn Falcone, Organizing and Design Expert

Getting organized is a top New Year’s Resolution, but it’s a process that takes time and commitment to tackle. I always encourage my clients to begin with “baby steps” to clear away the clutter, but, before you dive in and start purging a kitchen cabinet – stop! Let’s shift the focus from the stuff to you. I want to you to begin by finding one small area in your home to create your very own recharging station. It can be the corner of your home office or bedroom, heck, it can be your laundry room.

Clear the clutter out of this area. Place something of beauty in the space like a piece of art, a printout of an inspirational quote or your favorite vase with flowers. Add something comfy to sit on – a small chair or floor pillows and put on mood lighting (floor lamp with a dimmer or candles). This is now your spot to recharge. And it’s truly YOURS. Yes, that means kids (and partner) free. Go here at the end of a long day to sit and reflect. Go here to set your intentions for the next day. Go here to regroup, drink a cup of tea, read a book, journal or make your to do list. Give yourself a daily timeout. This space can become your haven while you slowly work on conquering the chaos in other areas of your home and life.

Website: http://dawnfalconelifestyles.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DawnFalcone

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DawnFalconeLifestyles?ref=ts&fref=ts

Sarah DeGange, Cosmetologist, Proof-Reader, Anime Cartoonist

The Social Media Seduction
 
Social media has its charms and it can easily seduce us. Online, we can meet and greet without much risk, show our friends exactly what we think they want to see, and decorate our own personal cyber-spaces as if they were rooms in our homes. We’ve FINALLY discovered a place where our image and reputation is totally in OUR HANDS to control! We can post the enviable vacation, the perfect family, and all of our many accomplishments, without giving a clue about the disappointments or the struggles along the way.  So we’re HOOKED!

Online we have easy access to people with a low level of commitment! If you need advice on an article you’re writing, that brilliant colleague is only a click away. You can get a little help without a long conversation. Stuck at a family reunion God forbid, and forced to catch up for an entire weekend? Open that iPad or iPhone and you’re off the hook.  Who needs live relationships when we can get away with a “like” and an @reply a few times a day?

Social media has always kind of bugged me.  I grew up witnessing the explosion of the Internet, and it’s actually not social media itself, but the grand facade of it all that bothers my spirit most. A disturbing trend I’ve noticed is the obsessive need to include others in everything that’s happening in our lives. At what point do we recognize that life will zoom right past us if all our grand experiences are accompanied by a blinking red light?

Being 21 years old, the sweaty palms of my high school experience have only just begun to dry. So I can tell you first-hand that sites like Facebook and Twitter are just like being enrolled in one big high school, and it doesn’t matter if you’re online for business or personal reasons. Life just shouldn’t be a popularity contest or a perfection campaign. It has to be deeper and more authentic than that!

Social media is fun, even useful, but there comes a point when too much is not a good thing.  If your head is always peering at the screen, you sort of miss something quite important all around you. You miss the essence of life, and good self-care means you have to be connected with the essence of life!
 
OK, so how do we practice good social media self-care? Here are some guidelines. Focus on the importance of staying genuine! Be authentic, and don’t take it all so seriously. Then and only then can your message of co-caring get through to people over cyber space.

Be balanced! Have both an online and an offline approach. Don’t neglect face-to-face connections in your personal life and with your work. Although that door-to-door salesman is long gone, I find it refreshing to see anyone still finding opportunities to hand out their business card. And don’t forget that people talk to people. Being a cosmetologist, I was taught in school about the importance of the word-of-mouth clientele. And I saw its incredible results for myself. Ask any hairdresser and they’ll assure you that it’s their #1 form of advertisement. Never underestimate the power of real time. It’s much easier for clients to feel your potency with physical energy than through a cold, buzzing screen.
 
In a self-care nutshell, don’t abuse social media! Use it as a helpful tool, and reject it as a way to get the mass approval of others. Give yourself a reasonable time limit for the type of work you do online, and allow others to hold you to it. Spend more time investing in self-care outside of the online world. Kick your feet up with a carefully made snack and a great book. Swing on a swing at a local park. Remind yourself how awesome YOU are. Then take a stunning picture of yourself and hang it up in your own office. The simple bliss you find in the physical world, rather than the virtual world, may surprise you!

Website:  Not!

Twitter:  Deleted!

Facebook: Erased!

Lori Lynn Smith, The Passion Diva 

To love one-self is the beginning of a lifelong romance. ~ Oscar Wilde

Losing touch with the thoughts in your head? Feeling like you are going at a frantic pace? Not remembering the last time you had time alone? It is definitely time for an Extreme-Self Care retreat!

We could easily spend 30, 40 minutes or 30 years, feeling guilty about wanting… no NEEDING space for ourselves as women we are genetically compelled to nurture others. Which is fine, great, even noble, but we need to allow ourselves the time and space to re-energize and recharge we are just not emotionally available if we do not have love and compassion filling our hearts and souls.

So what is a self-care retreat? It can be as simple as spending an afternoon at home alone with uninterrupted time to do whatever you like. Or it could be a weekend away in a mountain cabin by a babbling creek, there where is not as important as the space. Time space and physical space; time enough to quiet your mind and your ego, time to be alone with your own inner voice and inner guidance, physical space that allows you to quickly feel comfortable and connected to the universe.

Your only goal for this retreat time is to FEEL joy and inner peace. When you make yourself and your practice of extreme self care a priority you allow for a constant connection to your personal inner source of personal compassion that flows to every you know and everyone you touch.

Website:  http://www.sacredearthpartners.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/thepassiondiva

Twitter: http://twitter.com/lorilynnsmith

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lori.smith

Nancy Meadows,  Lifestyle Interior Designer, Certified Interior Environment Coach, Owner of Nancy Meadows Design and Consulting

Self-Care and Why it’s so Vital for Women

Why is it that as women, self-care ends up at the bottom of the 2-do list, if it’s on the list at all. It seems we’re genetically programmed to take care of all others first. Then and only then do we allow ourselves to think of “me.” It becomes a problem, both physically, emotionally, and spiritually, when we never, or rarely, get our turn. As women, we tend to feel guilty, selfish, or vain when we put ourselves before others. Well I say to hell with that! One benefit of getting older is the wisdom of knowing that if our emotional well is not filled regularly, there is nothing of real value to give anyone, even ourselves…everyone loses.

So here are a few suggestions to keep you feeling fully alive:

1)  Take time throughout the day to renew yourself. Take a walk, take a break from your phone and computer, read something inspirational, take slow deep Zen breaths. Take 5 seconds to inhale in while saying “I am… and 5 seconds exhaling saying in your mind “well, happy, calm” or anything you wish that’s positive. It really works and can be done anytime or anywhere.

2)  Plan one day a month for yourself and play. Treat yourself to something you want to do. Anything that allows you to retreat from your daily life. Mark this day on your calender so you’ll be sure to do it. You’re making an appointment with and for yourself.

3)  Bring beauty into your life; it’s healing. Engage all of your senses. Think color, texture, fresh flowers, anything of nature, aromatherapy using scents like Sandalwood or Lavender, relaxing music and the soft tinkle of a water fountain.

4) Laugh everyday.

5) Take time to dream.

P.S. If all else fails, enjoy a great glass of wine!    

Lillian Ogbogoh, The Goddess Creator

Extreme Self-Care An Extreme Act of Self-Love!

In our daily lives as women we have adopted, taken on board an idea that we are the main care givers in the relationships we have, so we spend most of our time wearing our many hats, from Business owner, CEO, Star employee, wife, mother, girlfriend, lover and best friend. This translates down to advocate, lawyer, bottle washer, cook, monster detector, Storyteller, Negotiator, Sexual and Sensual Goddess, and that ear that listens and the hands that heals, all rolled into one.  This often leaves us with very little time to nurture and care for the most neglected person in your life and I’m talking about you!

We are often taught that putting your needs before others is selfish, to that I say pish posh, this is so not true. Self- Care is an act of love and survival. So here are my two tips for extreme self-care.

Tip # 1.  Put Yourself On The List: We as women are great at generating lists for all and sundry, from the never ending to do lists, to our perfectly laid out shopping lists. When we check these overwhelming lists of ours, what we desire the most just does not feature on them and in some extreme cases, our lists are all about other people and we barely make the top 30 things to be done. It’s time to put you on the list. When I think of this, my mind skips to the movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, where he skips school and creates a day of magic and mayhem. So it’s time to skip your everyday to do list and play hooky. Call up that friend who is your fellow mischief maker and go and have some fun. Go to that art exhibition that you heard about and had so wanted to go to but you just could not make the time. Have a spa break during a week day. My personal favorite is taking a bath and just making it a ritual, nothing says self-indulgence like a long hot soak during the middle of the day. I’m talking about a bath that Cleopatra would have approved of, fine you may not be able to get the asses’ milk or honey but you create your own sanctuary. Unearth that desire that you have left in the dark for too long and put it into action.

Tip #2.   Say No! This is a biggie for self-care. Many of us women have this serious condition where we can’t say no to certain requests from our nearest and dearest as well as colleagues, employer and clients. I’m also talking about you saying no to yourself when you are attempting to put more things on your already full plates. This is not about refusing to help others or be there for friends. It’s about being conscious, that saying yes to that request, will be taking time away from your own pressing needs of nurturing you. Be honest with yourself and others that if you said yes, that decision will leave you feeling resentful, exhausted and will bring a sense of frustration to your own life. Being honest and saying no at this point is the honorable and selfless thing to do because if you took on that request and did it you will be doing it with all the wrong energy and intentions.

So these are my two tips for taking that time to nurture and care for that person that is usually last on the list and is so exhausted from the many hats she is wearing.

Unbridled Joy and Brilliance!

Website: http://www.lillianogbogoh.com

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/goddesslillian

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LillianOgbogoh

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/PhenomenalGoddess

Lisa Montanaro, Productivity Consultant, Success Coach, Business Strategist, Speaker, Author

Journal Writing as a Form of Self-Care

To me, journal writing is one of the best forms of self-care. My journal has always been a safe haven to work through my desires, dreams, problems, obstacles, challenges, and goals. Journaling is a great way to dialogue with yourself, and often leads to powerful breakthroughs. There is something magical that happens when you put words down on paper. Words are powerful in and of themselves. But writing down words is even more powerful! I received my first journal as a gift when I was eight years old. I have filled countless journals since then, and the act of journaling remains an important one to me up until this day. So think of a journal as a gift to yourself.

For years, I wrote daily. But now I write whenever I want, for however long I want, and in whichever format I want (see a pattern here?). Julia Cameron advocates writing “morning pages” in her book The Artists Way. I did morning pages for years, and liked how it seemed to help me look forward in my writing, as opposed to when I wrote in the evenings, which felt more like I was looking backward and reporting on past events. But you should write whenever it is convenient for you to carve out the time.

In fact, as you have probably surmised by now, everything about my journal writing experience is positive. There is no Must or Should – no rules to follow. I give myself permission to let it flow when I want and how I want. In this regard, my journal writing has always been a release for me. If you keep a journal, I hope you continue to enjoy the process. If you haven’t tried journal writing yet, give it a chance. You may love it. I know I do. And it is a wonderful gift of self-care to give to yourself. You deserve it.

Website: http://www.lisamontanaro.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/lisamontanaro

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/LisaMontanaro

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lisamontanaro

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LMOrganizingSolutions 

Aime Hutton, Canadian Ambassador for Freedom & Empowerment Teen Campaign 

When was the last time you looked at yourself in the mirror and said to yourself  ”I love you” , to look past your scars and what you look like on the outside and truly go inward, loving yourself where you are now in this journey and dance called life? Do you love your body? Do you love the way you look? It’s time to love yourself as you are now.

Here’s an activity I invite you to consider doing. Put on a soft sensual piece of music and slowly start to sway to it. Remember to breathe……Use your own hands. Run them from the top of your head down your body all the way to your toes and press love into your skin. Take your time, use the entire 3 minutes of the song. Whisper to yourself “I love you” as you do it. Make sure you get every inch of your skin. During the 3 minutes repeat it over and over again, going up and down your body in a loving way.

Website: http://www.wondergirlscamp.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/aimeh

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/AwakeningGoddes

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/aimehutton

Sandra Conway, Independent Brand Partner for Nerium Int’l Skincare 

Love What Is Precious!

Love what is precious and that includes you!

I’m sure you are wondering, but how can I do this?  It it starts with guarding your heart. Your heart includes your eyes, ears, soul, and everything that makes you who you are!

First of all, you need to love yourself so much that you guard your eyes. Your eyes are the windows to the soul. Pay attention to what you see at all times. Make sure the things you view are kind, lovely, precious, and positive. If you are viewing negative and destructive behavior, you are not taking care of what is precious! There is a lot that is negative in this world, but make a conscious decision to stay away from it. Don’t spend anytime reading negative material or watching negative shows. Only read and watch what is beneficial to the soul. Those things should be positive, uplifting, encouraging, and kind. Guard what is precious and that is you!

Next, love yourself so much that you guard the ears. Pay attention to what you are listening to in music, news reports, and conversations. Make sure the things you are allowing in are beautiful, kind, loving, encouraging and positive. If you are listening to things that are negative, violent, and destructive, you are not taking care of what is precious. Love what is precious and that is you!

Last, but not least guard your environment! You have a choice about where you go, who you are with, and what you allow into your world. Love yourself so much that you protect your world! If you are around people who are negative and bring you down, get rid of those people in your life. Don’t allow drama in! Get rid of the drama and maintain a peaceful existence. Only allow true friends into your world! These are people who will love, encourage, and support you! Hang around people who are world changers and you will become a world changer! Choose to be with people who are reaching for the stars and you will want to reach for the stars too! Like imitates like! Love yourself so much that you guard the place where you live! Your world is precious!

Remember, you are precious! Guard, protect and love yourself so much! Keep the bad out and only allow the good in! Love what is precious and that my friend is you!

Aloha from Maui!

Website: www.sandycmaui.nerium.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sandycmaui

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/sandycmaui

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MauiSkincare

Suzette Mariel, Producer, PR Strategist, Media Stylist     

Pay yourself first

There are a million different things that pull at your energy everyday and all of them seem to need your undivided attention. So how do you take care of everything and still honor yourself? The answer is simple… pay yourself first. If you pay yourself first then you have something you can withdraw. It really is that simple.

Paying yourself doesn’t have to mean money, it can mean giving yourself the first share of energy in your day, or the first taste of the chocolate cupcakes you had to make, or even a simple smile in the mirror. In today’s fast paced world, giving away all of your energy means that you aren’t honoring yourself and treating yourself with the special attention you deserve. We give of ourselves with reckless abandon for our family and friends; we too deserve a generous dose of happy payments.

Be undeniably ruthless with taking what you need from yourself FIRST!

Websitte: http://www.suzettemariel.com

Pinterest: http://www.Pinterest.com/suzettemariel

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/suzettemariel

Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/Mariel.Suzette   

Bonnie Rogers, Clinical herbalist and Wellness Coach  

How would it feel to walk into a messy home, a kitchen that has a sink filled with old dishes growing who knows what and a damp stinky basement?  Do you know that you could be walking around with the inside of your body as dirty, toxic, and moldy as the insides of that house?  When we ingest toxic substances such as pesticides, (eating processed or genetically modified foods, white sugar, table salt and more) use chemical laden skincare and cleansing products in addition to filling our bodies with handfuls of pharmaceuticals we are polluting the insides of our bodies. This shows up in the look of our skin, and hair; for many they find that they have brain fog, they can’t focus, have very low energy levels and just plain don’t feel good.  All of this is STOPPING your body from creating optimal health.  

Are you suffering from anxiety and stress?  Are you always bloated and feel like your digestion will never be normal again?  Are menopause symptoms giving you a run for your money?  Do you know that so many of these “symptoms” are caused from the toxic substances we have put into or on our bodies?  ARE YOU READY to create vibrant, radiant health in your body and remove these toxic substances so that your body can heal?  It’s really not so hard.  By making simple changes in the foods you eat, the water you drink and adding some herbs and supplements to your diet, you can create major shifts in your health.  Our bodies are amazing machines and with a little help you can be on your way to feeling great.  How would it feel to wake up every morning feeling fabulous and ready to take on the world?  

Website: http://www.RadiantHealthforLife.com

Pinterest.com: http://pinterest.com/bonniesherbals

Twitter: http://twitter.com/_RadiantHealth

Facebook: http://facebook.com/RadiantHealthforLife.com

Tatyana Gann, Intuitive PR Consultant, Publicity Coach, Mompreneur, and Creative Writer

How do I love myself and where do I start?

We are looking for a magic self love blueprint, and I’ll be honest and say it does not exist! I’ve searched and searched for that “perfect” self love formula. I was raised in a very interesting family. I studied math, physics, chemistry and English. I was a nerdy girl with long black hair who studied all the time. I had fun solving complicated math problems with my grandfather who taught me everything I needed to know. If you’ve seen the movie “Princess Diary” then you know what I’m talking about—a girl with long black hair, thick eye brows and nerdy friends. Back then I did not know how to love myself. I loved pleasing people, including my parents and teachers, and the only time I felt myself was when I was in my ballroom dancing school where I could express my heart and where I felt FREE! That was self love but I did not recognize it at that time!

I always loved solving problems and using my logic. Even later in life I was so logical when it came to love and self love. I would say “I need A, B, C to get me to Z….” and I was impatient, yet I waited and waited for that perfect self love blueprint to be revealed to me. But it did not exist. I was suffering inside. I felt I lost, and lost all my energy reserves.

I hit the BIGGEST inner wall, which was made of my ego, stubbornness and perfectionism. I had to break it down start rebuilding. I needed an architect to design the NEW me. I turned to God completely and asked God to guide me to people who would open their hearts and be honest with me so I’d get rid of my “mind poop”.

I was ready for a total detox and to breath again! I am fortunate to work with an amazing life coach, Ariaa Jaeger, a spiritually evolved teacher and intuitive who told me that self  love started with self care. It meant I had to focus on me, talk less, meditate more and be silent to regain peace.

Often we feel self pity and don’t recognize the blessings around us. Knowing what we have is the key element of self love! Self love means trusting God enough to bring peace, joy and all you need into your life. Self love does not mean you are selfish and careless. Actually you show MORE love to others because your “Love Bucket” is filled, with so much love to give. Learning about self love is one thing, but learning how to love yourself is the best life schooling you can get. It includes learning about Divine God, your own power, trust, faith, courage and becoming a teacher to others.

You may have lost everything in life, and have nothing to left lose, but to go forward! Your best asses is not real estate, cars, money in the bank and fake friends who are there only when things are good. Quite often your spiritual journey starts when you are wrecked, when you fall apart and when everything in your life has drastically changed. For a brief moment, you do not believe what is possible, but then you regroup. You move forward. You can look at it as the most challenging time in your life, or you can see it as the most beautiful, because God is FINALLY revealing your true power!

One of the most important principles in spiritual growth is SELF LOVE. Learning to love you is step one in spiritual growth. Don’t leave it for later. Allow God’s love in your heart. It will move mountains and open new doors. It will give you strength and wisdom to do what you never did! Love is the force that opens the hearts of others to see the light in you—God’s love—that changes the hearts of the ones who hurt you most. This makes you a big believer that God’s favors are coming your way. Believe it, trust, and take actions, even small ones. Self love opens doors to serve others, to bring healing or hope to somebody’s life. You carry the power in you, but first you must focus on filling up the Self Love Bucket with loving kind energy that God gives! Ask him! He gives! 

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