Sharon knows best

Sunday, January 11, 2015

Are you still motivated?

Well we are almost into mid January and believe it or not some people have put those 2015 goals to the side...sigh. So you cheated on that diet you set for yourself; haven't quite made it to the gym yet (me neither it is just too cold to go out); and already cussed out the neighbor although you promised yourself this would be a year of peace. Well don't fret 'ish happens'. Just refocus on 3 - 5 things you are looking forward to accomplishing in 2015 and remember it is not about the fall but how you get up.

"Do not think of today's failures, but of the success that may come tomorrow. You will succeed if you persevere and you will find joy in overcoming obstacles." (Helen Keller)

Here are just a few ways to keep to your 'new you, new year' goals (notice I didn't say resolutions).

My vision board ...

Vision board or book

Right, so I am sure you have heard this multiple times since January 1 - 'create a vision board'. This has become more and more popular over the last few years, although I have been doing them for over 7 years now. Besides being fun and creative, vision boards give you a picture of your dreams on paper, in addition to a daily reminder of what you seek to accomplish. If you follow the law of attraction, visualization and positive thoughts give your dreams power to manifest: I would like to add in prayer and gratitude for now and what is to come.

If a large cardboard of cut out pictures and words don't do it for you, then try a 'vision book', a notebook with the similar idea of a vision board. The only difference is it is mobile - take it with you anywhere.

Start with a base - cardboard, large sheet of paper, cork board, foam core or picture frame - your choice. For the 'vision book' try a composition book or large notepad.

Creatives - magazines, printouts, newspaper, glitter, stickers. Whatever you feel will give your inspiration visual pizzazz.

Tools - pen, pencil, markers, glue, tape and scissors.

Write it out - the best way to get this process started without stumbling is to write out your vision and goals first. Start with the long-term goal (this is what you will put on the board first), then envision the steps to get you to the ultimate goal.

Remember this is an ongoing project. So set your intentions but be open for change. If you stay focused on the big picture, the changes in-between will not hinder you from staying on track. Most importantly, have fun and be creative.

The home decor page (in process) of my vision notebook.

SMART goals

In business planning we learn to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time Sensitive) goals. When your goals are vague and you fall off course, you feel like a train wreck. For instance, if you say "I plan to lose weight in 2015" you are simply setting yourself up for failure. So instead say, "I plan to lose 30 lbs by December 2015" (specific and measurable), this is the big picture goal. Next, your actions steps should be, "I will workout 3-4 days a week, cardio, strength and yoga...etc." (specific and achievable) and a milestone will be "I aim to lose 5 lbs by February 28th" (measurable and realistic).

Now, you can monitor yourself more accurately and remove a lot of pressure with SMART goals and steps. And you don't have to wait until the end of the year for results.

Baby steps

Often times we hear about setting 12 - 18 month goals. While this works for some, for others (I venture to say most) this may be a bit much. Therefore, I suggest setting your big picture, long term goals (the end goal) and then create 3-6 month objectives (or short term goals) to follow. Again, this gives you a bit more flexibility in your thought process and the inevitable life changes that will occur. It can be overwhelming to look out 12 months ahead for every step you plan to take for the year so start with baby steps, then learn to walk...run...leap.

Accountability partners

We know that people of like minds create magic, from businesses to families. Whether it is a trusted friend, a co-worker, family member or stranger (who knows), find someone who will hold you accountable to these goals. Someone who believes in the same method of visualization (vision boards) and goal setting. The both of you can partner to check in on one another monthly, semi-annually or at the end of the year. I call it the 'vision check-in'. Accountability partners will keep you focused on the task ahead, especially as you get caught up in life and your dreams start to feel distant - this accountability partner can give you the boost you need from time to time.

Get over it

What I know (since Sharon knows best) is, if you mess up 'get over it'. No one is perfect and 'ish happens' (I like that saying). Therefore, the more you wallow in your mistakes and failures, the further off you get from your dreams and you ruin the power of the law of attraction once you allow negative thoughts to fester. So recognize your failure, acknowledgment it, remember the big picture, make amends and move on.

So with my vision boards (and vision book) complete, I am off running into the wonderful wild of 2015. Hope you can join me on this adventure.

Career vision #1 took of last year...Chief Creative Officer and co-founder of GEM² - www.gem.co - 2015 is on!

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

What a time, what a time!

Hi peeps. It's been a busy year and half as I embarked on a journey a life changing journey with Dress for Success - Worldwide Central (Chicago) as volunteer personal stylist; to later accepting the challenging role of Program Coordinator; lastly a surprising promotion to Chicago Branch Manager. I met the most amazing ladies and am proud to say made a difference in their lives daily. My motto, 'making a difference one person and one wardrobe at a time" was fulfilled on all levels. Unfortunately, for the love of money (we all know what happened next!) I left DFS for something awful and at this age that is a no, no. So I took a leap of pure faith and am back on track for world domination. (smile)

I've been to Dubai twice to teach my Social and Digital Media class to a wonderful group of emerging fashion designers, bloggers, journalist and novice in that beautiful city. And had a great 40th birthday excursion to London, Paris and Lyon. 2013 was indeed a fantastic year; 2014 is just getting started.

I am so excited to announce I am 10 lbs. lighter, healthier, stronger, sassier, smarter; and even more talkative and ready to spread the word about life changes, our choices, image (even in the face of trial) and of course beauty and style (inside and out).

Stay tuned for some news about my new venture, Stilettos and Loafers - from videos to events I have a lot in store.

I'll be back, I promise (and it won't be another year from now, just give me a week.).