Success

"Success is not easy and it is certainly not for the lazy." - Sam Saifer

A Way to Start Your Day

All hail early risers... (or wannabes)!  You know what they say, “the early bird gets the worm,” so, why not make the best of your day and get up early with the other movers and shakers?  I’m sure you’ve heard the countless studies linking early risers to health and success—so, why argue statistics?  Just roll with it!  There are never enough hours in the day but if you start early, you find the ability to accomplish more than you've ever known!

Okay, off my soap box.  I get up around 6am every workday, whether I feel like it or not.  Luckily, my boyfriend rises at just about the time (if not earlier), so there is some motivation to get up and get moving.  I make myself a piping hot cup of coffee, knock off small chores around house… relax on the couch, admire the awakening city skyline and bust out my laptop for a good read.  I always look forward to my morning reading routine.  Without coffee, none of this would happen before 8am, I ensure you.

I read all sorts of material: fashion blogs, trending news, career oriented articles, industry/trade publications … pretty much anything that will capture my attention early in the morning (it really varies day to day)!  

Just this week, I signed up for theSkimm, after reading a write-up about the company in Fast Company.  TheSkimm delivers news to your email inbox every morning condensing major headlines into a manageable one-page brief.   TheSkimm entered the marketplace aiming to create a better news experience for busy professionals, particularly millennial women.  I guess I fit that demo!

Note: theSkimm isn’t for all.  Some might even find the one-page daily news feed non-educational, lacking of substance or even just downright “unprofessional”.  I admit the tone of the content is written in non-formal, millennial-speak; but, I love the creativity and voice of the editorial.  TheSkimm is exactly what they proclaim: they do the reading (across subject and party lines) and break the news down with fresh editorial content.  It’s kind of like having your best friend fill you in on current events over coffee.

Save those extra zzz’s for the weekend.  Get up early and subscribe to theSkimm! 

Be A Beginner

"Allow yourself to be a beginner.  No one starts off being excellent."

Calm, Cool & Collected

Do you have a critical summer interview on the horizon?  Read these tips to help you feel calm, cool and collected during the hot summer months. 

1. Wear one less item in transit - On the way to the interview, wear one less item than you plan to wear at the actual interview. For example, carry your jacket or blazer. This way, you'll be cooler in transit and your jacket will be crisp. Once you put it on, you don't have to worry as much about the dampness of your shirt becoming too visible.
2. Wear comfortable shoes - It's tempting to wear a pair of heels, but during the summer, it's better to opt for comfortable flats or dress shoes. Dressy sandals can also work well, depending on the dress code of the business. Whatever you do, don't show up wearing flip-flops.  Personally, I always think that heels look more professional than flats but make sure your heels are comfortable and you aren't walking like a wobbly giraffe!
3. Give yourself 15 minutes to cool down - Allow yourself extra time to cool off before your interview time. Depending on where you are going, spend a few minutes in the bathroom or at a nearby business to get refreshed and gather your thoughts. This is the perfect time to put some cold water on your face or neck. It's also a good idea to always carry a nice handkerchief for just this situation. Once you're cooled off, you'll feel more confident about the interview. 
4. Select garments that don't show sweat - It's best to wear fabrics that have a little bit of Lycra, to prevent wrinkles and stay away from linens and other fabrics that tend to show sweat or that look rumpled easily. Plan for the hottest day, and anything less will be a pleasant surprise. 
5. Bring along some breath strips - To feel fresh, it's a bad idea to put on more cologne or perfume. On hot days, the overwhelming perfume smell can trigger allergies even in those who aren't as sensitive to it. Instead, get a pack of breath strips that dissolve quickly in your mouth. It will give you fresher breath and can even make you smell better overall.

Best of luck! xo

Workin' Nine to Five

So I have been “back to work” for approximately a week now and one thing is for sure; I need to keep my office diet in-check!  I'm now being tempted by the break room goodies, caffeinated sodas and coffee pick-me-ups, lunch outings, corporate parties and special functions.  Now that I have an expectation for what I'm up against, I am feeling more prepared and motivated this week to put my nutrition back on track!  In an effort to discover new, healthy snack choices; I came across this informative list of snack items.

SnackAttack: 10 Yummy Low-Calorie Snacks by Arizona Foothills Magazine

1. Hard Boiled Eggs: For a natural protein boost in the middle of your busy day, enjoy one or two hard-boiled eggs. One medium hard-boiled egg delivers a host of essential vitamins at just 81 calories.
2. Tomato Topped with Balsamic Dressing: Ok so it’s not the authentic Caprese Salad from Italy, but it’s pretty close, and minus the fat! You can’t go wrong with stuffing your face with tomatoes at only 30 calories a pop (medium-sized). This tasty veggie is packed full of vitamins and minerals, most notably vitamin C and vitamin A.
3. Celery with Peanut Butter: Did you know you actually burn off the amount of calories in a stick of celery just by chewing it? This means it has negative calories! Spread some low-fat peanut butter on these crunchy green veges and take in some good fats as it is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Cup of Cottage Cheese and a Grapefruit: Dieters often steer clear of cheeses because they are chock-full of fat. Well delicious cottage cheese is the exception to the rule… And no it won’t give you “cottage cheese thighs.” This healthy snack is low in fat and carbs, and very high in protein — just what you need to decrease that body fat percentage. Add a grapefruit to the mix, because this special fruit is low in calories and sodium, high in potassium and fat burning enzymes. Perfect!
5. Sargento’s Low-Fat String Cheese with an Apple: If cottage cheese isn’t your cup of tea or you’d like something more mobile, try healthy string cheese, like Reduced Fat, Low Moisture Mozzarella String Cheese by Sargento. This particular brand is filled with snacks at only 50 calories each with just 2.5 grams of total fat. However, this isn’t going to stop your stomach from rumbling, so throw in a juicy apple rich in Vitamin C.
6. TCBY’s Fat- & Sugar-Free Frozen Yogurt: Who would have thought stopping at your local TCBY would actually be healthy for you? Well it is when you choose the fat- and sugar-free frozen yogurt. Just three ounces of a fat-free brand will only set you back 100 calories.
7. 14 Whole Natural Almonds: Nuts are jam-packed with fat… good fat! A measly 14 almonds, in particular, are not only just 80 calories, but have 3 grams of protein, 7 grams total fat and 1.5 grams dietary fiber.
8. Hummus with Whole Wheat Pita Bread: This Middle Eastern creation is delicious and super healthy. It is filled with fiber and dripping with olive oil for our essential fat burning, fatty acids. Choose whole wheat pita bread for dipping. This has less simple sugars and even more fiber!
9. Fiber One Yogurt with a Banana: For all you gals with a sweet tooth, yogurt is the healthiest way to get your daily fix. Try Fiber One’s non-fat, 50-calorie yogurt packs. These delicious treats are filled with fiber, which will help your belly feel more satisfied. Toss in a nutritious banana for some more fiber, potassium and vitamin B6.
10. 100% Dried Fruit Bars: Try these delish Trader Joe’s Handmade Fruit Bars… if you haven’t already. You’ll be hooked! They are less than 50 calories each.

TIP: For years my mother has prepared her hard-boiled eggs with a dash of white vinegar.  This is the best trick for making easy to peel hard boiled eggs.  Follow the simple steps below for the perfect, hassle-free hard boiled egg:

• Place water in a large pot. Add desired number of eggs. Add 2 to 3 teaspoons of white vinegar to the water and a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil for two minutes.
• Cover the pot and remove it from the heat. Let it stand for 11 minutes. When eggs are done, remove them from water and allow them to cool. 
• Crack the shell at both ends of the egg and begin removing the eggshell, which should come off easily.

Happy Monday, ya’ll!

Sleepless in Seattle

Seattle Skyline

Okay, life update.  I have officially moved back to the PNW and couldn’t be happier about the decision!  I landed a contract position with Media Plus+ to fulfill the role as Political Media Coordinator through the remainder of the political season.  

I have had the pleasure of spending a lot of time with my family and my boyfriend, Mac, who has just recently finished his fishing season in Alaska.  I have enjoyed practicing yoga on the beach, hiking and camping in the Cascades, drinking lots of coffee and revisiting with old friends.  I am sorely missing my sweet dog, Bella, and all of my Flagstaff friends; but, I am looking forward to becoming a Seattleite and taking full advantage of this fantastic city!

Side note; I’ve stumbled into a fairly bleak and bland looking cubicle and need to stay up to speed with the trend-setting, power chicks I work with.   Any suggestions on how to dress my cubicle up without going  overboard?  I was thinking a few framed pictures, a desk lamp, a nice calendar, etc.  Am I missing anything?

Happy trails and here we go!

Robust Reading

I have made it to the Pacific NW and what a welcoming relief!  The flight, comfortable.  The people, warm. The scenery, breathtaking.  I am very much looking forward to retracing steps and experiences I once overlooked in my youth.  The PNW has so much to offer and I am feeling a wealth of inspiration! 

Let me tell you about two books that I picked up at Half Price Books a few days ago and have since enjoyed.

Amazon; used from $1.90

(1)    Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn WithoutBlowing It by Peggy Klaus

“It is well-documented that working hard isn't enough to keep your professional star rising: Self-promotion is recognized as one of the most important attributes for getting ahead. But learning to share your talents and successes without coming across as smug or rehearsed is a tricky skill. Now, Peggy Klaus, top communication and leadership coach, has developed a program that will teach anyone to brag - and get away with it. Filled with practical examples of ways in which people in various work-life stages can promote themselves, Klaus teaches readers to communicate strengths and accomplishments without appearing too opportunistic, eager, egotistical or self-aggrandizing. Now anyone can communicate with style and substance - in any situation - and walk away shining like the star they are!”--Amazon

Synopsis:  provides creative and tactical narrative content, pinpoints direct solutions for specific scenarios in the workplace, interactive and engaging, constructive conversation mapping, empowering, confidence-boosting material through and through.

Amazon; used from $0.01

(2)    Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office 101:Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers by Lois P. Frankel,Ph.D.  

“Dr. Lois Frankel reveals why some women roar ahead in their careers while others stagnate. She's spotted a unique set of behaviors--101 in all--that women learn in girlhood that sabotage them as adults. Now, in this groundbreaking guide, she helps you eliminate these unconscious mistakes that could be holding you back--and offers invaluable coaching tips you can easily incorporate into your social and business skills. If you recognize and change the behaviors that say "girl" not "woman", the results will pay off in career opportunities you never thought possible--and in an image that identifies you as someone with the power and know-how to occupy the corner office.” --Amazon

Synopsis: coaching strategies to avoid missed opportunities, critical analysis of inherent and detrimental behaviors of women in the workforce, identification of specific areas for improvement and criticisms to make change, no bullshit self-help book on steroids

What better season for self-improvement then the beautiful months of summer?

Make the most of today!

Pony Tail

Try it yours

Ah yes, the pony tail.  I don’t know if it is the dry Arizona climate or just the fact that I forget to “put my hair up” from day to day (with the exception of working out, doing chores or running errands on the fly).  Of course, there is no better feeling then getting hair off the back of your neck after a long day at work but in terms of everyday styling; I’ve totally neglected the up-do.  Until, recently, of course! 

I think it was the “sock bun” that inspired me to start pulling my hair back more often.  Or maybe it is a seasonal thing, as the weather gets warmer?  Hence, I am going to share with you my most favorite pony-tail style.  I don’t know the exact name of this style but hopefully the pictures and my attempt below at giving directions will fill in all the blanks.

Pony-tail style guide:

1. Absolutely, do not do this pony-tail with freshly washed hair.  You will want some dirty product in your hair to give the pony some texture and volume.  Although, do as you wish.
2. Tease your crown.  You are going to want some volume at the crown of your head and if you have bangs, give them a little bit of a tease, too.  I tease my hair almost everyday, so this step comes naturally for me.  If you prefer an absolutely sleek look, go for it.  I think this style is fool proof.
3. Lightly brush over the teased mess you have created with a soft-bristle round brush.  You will just want to smooth over what rats-nests you may have created.  Spray with a firm hold hair spray (or whatever you prefer) to keep the shape.
4. Let the hairspray dry completely and gather your hair effortlessly half way between the center of the back of your head and the bottom of your hair line.
5. Secure with a nylon hair tie (or whatever hair tie you typically use).  Slightly tease the bunch of hair that is now your pony tail for added volume.
6. You are going to gather one of the longer strands of hair falling from your pony tail (closest to your scalp).  Make sure you’ve got a good handle on the bunch of hair and begin to wrap it around the base of the pony tail (where the hair tie sits).  Wrap the hair around until it exhausts itself.  Secure and tuck the strands underneath the pony tail with two bobby pins.
7. Spray your head as you feel necessary with extra hair spray and presto—you are done!

The whole process takes about 5 minutes, max (even though my directions could be interpreted as longer then that).    

This look is uber chic, totally glamorous and wicked easy to pull-off in a hurry.  Hail to the pony tail gods, this look is fabulous!

Blogger Spotlight: Corporette

Super-Fantastic-Blogger-Spotlight: Corporette.com

Okay, so technically the blog, Corporette, is written by a stylish lawyer.  But, the content of the blog is relevant for all young and aspiring professionals. Corporette covers topics related to career advancement, personal achievement and style.  The variety of subjects addressed within the blog makes for fun and interesting point of views.

Whether it be money management, to-die-for shopping splurges, budget friendly fashion, fantastic products, organizational tips or career advice--Corporette has you covered.

Check it out!

26 and Counting

Liz, from Twenty Six and Counting Blog

One of my favorite fashion blogs is 26 and Counting and today Liz (the creator) is looking exceptionally cute.  I love Liz's daily fashion blog because of her sense of creativity and her dedication to "remixing" outfits which already exist in her closet. 

Liz makes a conscious effort to construct both budget-friendly and stylish work wear outfits.   Most of all, I enjoy her sense of honesty, humility and her commitment to posting daily entries.  I always look forward to seeing what she pulls together!

Don't be fooled.  Liz is a hard working and ambitious young professional.  It is astonishing that she manages to maintain a full-time job, a successful blog and pursue a masters degree--all at the same time!  Keep inspiring and keep up your great work, Liz!