Thursday, February 24, 2011

MOTIVATED magazine www.motivatedonline.com
Have you ever thought about what influences you to say yes when your schedule screams no?
I met Shevaun Voisin, Entrepreneur extraordinaire, and Founder of MOTIVATED Magazine for lunch several weeks ago. It was a Saturday, and I had a commitment from 9:30-11:45am, dinner guests arriving at 4pm with meal planning and groceries to do somewhere in between. Yet I sat, for quite possibly my longest lunch in history, mesmerized by this incredibly passionate woman, who coincidently lives only a few blocks away from me. I can easily say I have never met anyone like her. Check out her touching and powerful story, and her International Magazine. It's created with such heartfelt significance that it actually feels like you "experience" the wisdom on each page.
When I left the Japanese restaurant, I was running late—very late. I should have been thinking about the seven (hungry) people arriving at my home in less than 2 hours but instead, a powerful question I've asked most of my clients, kept circling in my head.
I realized many years ago the pictures of what I want can take a thousand different forms but the feelings associated with each, are non-negotiable. Meaning, I can have an ever revolving roster of clients, new projects on the go, hire or replace talent, and even relocate my office, but the feeling of being happy, creatively juiced, and passionate are a must. So I set them in stone. Or so I thought.
On this sunny, cold winter day, Shevaun was holding a "mirror" which allowed me to see that my choices the past few years have left me negotiating the non-negotiables. I had taken on work assignments that left me isolated, spending most days behind my computer, or on the phone - the four walls of my office always present. Sure I was able to remain outwardly successful but I'm also successful at cleaning the garage, and filing my taxes, and I can assure you these activities never "light me up".
So back to my original question—I think we say "yes" when there's a gift waiting from the universe we wouldn't normally expect. My intention in meeting Shevaun was to help her but unknowingly, just by sharing her desire to make meaningful, life-changing connections, and her choice to create a career that has an uncommon emotionally charged purpose, she helped me!
It's a new year, and a good time to remind everyone to say yes to the things that feel right, so you can stay open to instigating and receiving these gentle nudges.
Turning the tables, I'd like to leave you with the question:
What do you want your life to look like?
Here's to you living your answer, always!
And if you need a little nudge, send me a note. I'd love to meet you.
I don't have time to be sick. So I avoid it. A little secret of mine—when I feel run down, I take Oil of Oregano.
Mix 3-6 drops in a tiny bit of water—minimal water means only one gulp, and trust me, that's an intelligent choice. There's a small chance the taste will kill you but a much greater chance that it will only kill a virus that's brewing. I should have shares in this company—I've referred so many to this product, and everyone always raves about the results.
Enjoy!
...Actually, that's impossible!
But do have fun being healthy!
A few months ago, I celebrated my birthday in California. I decided in the 9th grade (which obviously wasn't that long ago;-), that I would celebrate this particular milestone in California, with my close girlfriends.
I was very wise in grade nine because I truly had the time of my life!

I still catch myself smiling over some of the crazy experiences we had! (Ladies, did a double-decker tour bus actually chase our convertible up the Santa Monica mountain, snapping pictures, and screaming with excitement, because they thought one of us was a big celebrity? I know it wasn't me—only my dog looks at me like I'm famous!)
Above all else, I value loyalty and honesty in my relationships. You become your environment so choose your friends wisely—take inventory of the people in your life. You deserve to surround yourself with people who are true, and bring out the best in you!
I am blessed because of the amazing people in my life, and California Girls, you are at the top of my (gratitude) list! Here's to you!
Until next month, remember, the best things in life are the people we love, the places we've been and the memories we've made along the way. Enjoy life!

Quote of the month:
"Not what we have but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance."