SIGN UP FOR A 
FREE CONSULTATION
Ready Set Go!
Ready Set Go!
Nourish...Nurture...Achieve...Connect! This blog will include
#2017goals (1) #2018goal (1) #acceptance (2) #Accountability (1) #Achieve (11) #adapt (1) #adoption (2) #ahhhmoment (1) #AnalysisParalysis (1) #authenticity (1) #beautifulplaces (1) #beautifulscenery (1) #beauty (1) #becurious (1) #BeHappy (2) #bestdecisionever (1) #bioindividuality (1) #blooms (1) #catsrule (1) #Challenge (1) #challengingtimes (1) #change (2) #ChangeYourLife (1) #chihuahua (1) #chihuahualover (1) #ChihulyGardensAndGlassMuseum (1) #china (1) #chineseadoption (2) #choosehappy (2) #cleo (1) #cold (1) #coldbusters (1) #comfortable (1) #congested (1) #connect (13) #content (1) #cravings (1) #crazyownerssanedog (1) #Daily (1) #DailyActions (1) #dailycalm (1) #DailyHabits (2) #dateyourself (1) #DayoftheDead (1) #dessert (1) #DiadeMuertos (1) #diet (1) #diets (1) #dogs (2) #dontbugme (1) #doterra (1) #earlburnsmillerjapanesegardens (1) #eatfeastly (1) #eatthisnotthat (1) #essentialoils (1) #explorelosangeles (1) #Facebook (1) #feelinggood (1) #findyourtribe (1) #fitness (1) #Friday (1) #friendship (1) #fun (1) #functionalmedicine (1) #Furbaby (2) #FurbabyFriday (3) #FurFriday (1) #getbackontrack (1) #GettingUnFriended (1) #GettingUnStuck (1) #giftideas (1) #girlfriends (1) #Goals (3) #GoalSetting (1) #goodbyeittybittysh*ttyvoice (1) #gotchaday (2) #GreysAnatomy (1) #growingup (1) #growth (1) #Happiness (1) #happinessthrusuffering (1) #Happy Anniversary (1) #HappyMLKDay (1) #healthy (2) #HealthyRecipes (1) #HealthySnacks #HowToEatHealthier (1) #history (1) #idoitall (1) #ilovethisdog (1) #iminthedriversseat (1) #india (1) #innervoice (1) #introvert (1) #Istanbul (1) #itsallaboutyou (1) #itsMEtime (1) #itsnotyouitsme (1) #jiangsuprovince (1) #keepmovingforward (1) #letitgo (1) #LetsEat (1) #letsgo (11) #lifestooshort (1) #LivingTheDream (1) #Love (8) #loveintheworld (1) #loveyourself (2) #Makeyourdreamscometrue (1) #makingthelifeiwant (1) #makingtime (1) #mantraMonday (1) #Mediate (1) #medici (1) #meditation (1) #memories (2) #memoriesforlife (1) #memoriesmade (1) #metime (1) #MidMonthChallenge (1) #Mimi (1) #MindfulMondays (1) #mom (1) #monday (1) #MondayMotivation (4) #moresleepplease (1) #MorivationMonday (1) #motherdaughterlove (1) #MotivationMonday (4) #MovingForward (2) #mustbefriday (1) #mybucketlist (1) #namaste (1) #nanjing (1) #napisinmyimmediatefuture (1) #naturalremedies (1) #naturalremedy (1) #nature (1) #netflixandchill (1) #nolabels (1) #noregrets (1) #Nourish (11) #nurture (23) #nurturemysoul (1) #nurtureyourself (1) #ommm (1) #onlineexercise (1) #openheart (1) #parties (1) #partysurvivaltips (1) #Perseverance (1) #postvacationblues (1) #priorities (2) #procrastination (1) #pushthrough (1) #putyourselffirst (1) #readysetgo (10) #ReadySetGo! (1) #rejection (1) #Relationships (1) #Relax (1) #santaanawinds (1) #saturday (1) #seattle (1) #selflove (2) #shopping (1) #ShoppingSaturday (1) #sleepisking (1) #snacks (1) #soulnurture (1) #spicemarket (1) #Spring (1) #staycations (2) #stockingstuffers (1) #stopdwelling (1) #sweettooth (1) #TheHollywoodRoosevelt (1) #themesong (1) #thevalueisintheprocess (1) #ThoughtfulThursday (1) #ThoughtfulTuesday (5) #Thursday (3) #ThursdayThoughts (1) #ThursdayTips (1) #time (1) #toastbandit (1) #ToDoList (1) #Transform (1) #Travel (6) #travelThursday (2) #trips (1) #truelove (1) #truth (1) #TuesdayThoughts (4) #TuesdayTip (2) #unfriend (1) #Universe (1) #vacation (1) #Vegan (1) #Vegetarian (1) #Vision (1) #Wednesday (2) #weekend (1) #WeekOfLove (1) #WhatsCooking (1) #WhatsCookingWednesday (1) #wherewegoinWednesday (1) #WorkoutWednesday (1) #WYA (2) #WYAWednesday (1) #youareenough (1) #Yum (1) #Zion (1) Achieve (1) Connect (1) Inspire (1) Nourish (1) Nurture (1)
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

NURTURE – The Post Vacation Blues – If You Can’t Beat ‘Em, Might As Well Join ‘Em…

5.9-Cinque Terra

I just got back from Italy last Thursday.  The jet lag got me for at least three days and today, I’ve finally stopped waking up at 3 a.m.…I wake up at 6 now…

 We had a wonderful time.  We slept in for most mornings, had Prosecco and wine with lunch every day (as well as dessert) and spent most of our time exploring hilltop “provincales” and fantasizing about retiring to Italy. 

 Pure bliss…
 
And now it’s Tuesday morning.  I had great excuses yesterday for not getting back to work.  I had to pick up my teen and spend some quality time with her since I hadn’t seen her for two weeks.  I also had my household chores as well as returning emails and phone calls.  Oh, and I also had to do EVERYTHING ELSE except go back to my computer.

This block surprised me.  While I was on vacation, ideas were flowing like crazy…and believe it or not, I was actually looking forward to going home and turning these ideas into brilliant blog posts.   I even scheduled time to write them in my daily work calendar.     But now…proprio niente….nothing at all…

“How’s the blog going?

“YOU KNOW…you can’t rush the creative process!”

 “Ok, but I don’t think you’re going to get creative by binge watching the second season of Dexter!”

 Everyone is a critic…

 Whenever I hit blocks, I always hit the gym.  For some reason, I’m able to not only work out my body but my mind.  As I was on the treadmill, listening to 70’s Disco Jams, I came to realize that I was focusing on missing Italy instead of taking away the experience of Italy. 

In other words, mourning the loss instead of celebrating the joy I got to feel while on vacation.

 Realizing that shift got me going again.

 I can be quite the robot sometimes.  I put my mind to something and I rarely let anything or anyone get in my way to accomplishing it.  This is how I was able to get my MBA while going through a divorce, selling the house and taking care of my little one.  This is the how I was able to hire sixty people in thirty days.  This is how I make sure that four dogs, one cat, one teen and one stubborn man are healthy, happy and moving forward. 

 Total focus….

 Vacation messes that up...

 Our wonderful Italian host offered to cook us an authentic four course Italian meal.  He inquired about what we liked to eat.  I dutifully recited that I ate a LOT of vegetables with lean protein.  He looked at me, puzzled, and asked,

“Why you not-a eat-a the wonderful pasta, here?  What-a is-a wrong-a with-a you?  I make-a special dish for you!”

 I ate pasta EVERY day after that.  It was my obligation as a good citizen representing America.  We must be a good example.

 I learned to let more things go.  I didn’t work out every day like I do at home.  I didn’t schedule anything except for the Cinque Terre tour (which of course, was planned two months in advance)  I felt so relaxed because I wasn’t stressed out trying to keep to my schedule.  I had great broken Italian-English conversations with anyone that could understand what I was trying to say.  I smiled all the time.

It was heaven…

 But, as we all know…we can’t be on vacation all the time.  At least not for me…

 Even if I had all the money in the world and could travel all the time, I would need some sense of purpose whether it was a quest to find the most beautiful place in the world or eat the most sinfully delicious dessert and then report my findings back to you.

However, is there anything that prevents us from taking some of that joy from our vacations and somehow incorporating it into our daily lives?

 What about….

 
Exploring a place that we’ve never been to before?

Trying different dishes or indulging, once in a while, in pasta or dessert?....

 What about having casual conversations with people that we don’t know?

 Smiling more often than not?

 
I’m now declaring two Sundays out of the month as my “vacation” time...

I will drink Prosecco with my Sunday Brunch dish that’s off my Daily Diet List at the new fabulous restaurant and save time to explore the new neighborhood that it’s in. 

I’m going to strike up friendly conversations with people who look friendly.  (Another upside is I will completely embarrass my Teen!)

And, I’m going to smile A LOT!

 

Who’s with me?  Where are we going to go?

'Till Next Time...


If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you! I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you!

 Sign up here - www.ready-set-go.me

 

 

 

 

 
PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

NOURISH: Eat THIS not THAT! Savory & Sweet Substitutes That BEAT My Cravings….


5.9-You've put on a little weight..

Last January, during my annual checkup, my doctor voiced her concerns after reviewing my annual Lab Test results. 

“Something is really weird…your levels have always been pretty good but this time you’re really high in your cholesterol and your A1c (blood glucose) levels.  I know you’re a health nut and I’m suspecting that this is probably genetic but we still have to do something about it.” 

This was a complete surprise to me. 

I’ve always been pretty active and tried to eat well but years of eating cookies for breakfast and the mindset of running five miles and being able to eat anything I wanted has failed me at this point of my life.  Further more, now that I’ve transitioned into being a Health Coach, I need to “Walk the Talk.”    

I was determined.   

I only allowed myself one “treat” a day.  I tried to eat healthy meals most of the week and would only allow myself a “splurge day” one day a week.   

Note: I would never advocate a strict diet without foods that gave me some pleasure.  It may work for some people, but it has never worked for me.  My usual pattern is to be good for 2 weeks and then binge on whatever I was trying to eliminate from my diet. 

I’d also be cranky and very hard to be around. 

In my mind, I was doing the best that I could.  I was making an effort to change my diet a little at a time.  I was moving every day and felt like I was making good choices. 

Three months later, I was very hopeful.  I took the tests again and went in for the results.  This visit, my doctor was running late and had her partner step in.   (Let’s just say, he needs to work on his Bedside Manner.)

“If you keep going in this direction, I’m going to put you on medication.” 

YIKES! 

Although, my feelings were a little hurt... the lab tests don’t lie.  Even though I thought I was “trying,” in reality, I really had only made small adjustments. I still had bad eating habits but for some reason, I thought if I did this less, it would make a difference. 

“Hey Mom…do you know the definition of insanity?"

Now, I had to come up with a new eating plan while I daydreamed about what I would say on the day my daughter comes to me with this same issue.   

But I digress…back to my new plan… 

I’ve eliminated added sugar and white flour from my diet and been sticking with lean proteins (fish) and veggies (non starchy) for most of my meals.  And, I’ve been feeling good and mostly satisfied. 

Until that time of the month…    

Please let me know that you go through this too!  You know...when your hormones are ruling your brain and stomach and your cravings make you an obsessive maniac. 

“Hello, my name is Allie and I’m an Obsessive Maniac who needs a sweet or savory snack right now…. seriously… NOW! 

Talk about being between a rock and a hard place… 

If I give into these cravings, I’ll have to start taking medicine.  What’s makes it worse is I might do lasting harm on my body and develop heart and diabetes-related diseases.  This would be worse than denying my cravings. 

But, what’s a girl to do?… 

I decided to experiment.  I’m going to try to train my body (and my hormones) to accept a healthier “treat” when those craving hits. 

Here's what I've come up with, so far.  The following ideas should take you less than 10 minutes to make …  

Savory Snacks

When I want something salty…
5.8-bbq chips









   like BBQ Chips, 

I'll make THIS instead...

5.8-BBQ Popcorn   It's really easy!

Air pop some popcorn, sprinkle some olive oil, sprinkle some BBQ seasonings and some sea salt and there you go! 

Another savory (and healthy) treat is

5.8-Rosemary Garlic Almonds  Rosemary Garlic Roasted Almonds...


These are also easy to make!  Melt some ghee or olive oil.  Use 1 tsp of chopped garlic and let it cook in the oil for about 1 minute.  Add 2 cups of natural raw almonds and brown for about 5 minutes (watch it carefully…it can burn fast!).  Sprinkle dried rosemary along with sea salt.  Spread out hot almonds on foil and let it cool. 

Sweet Treats 

Everyone who knows me knows I have the biggest sweet tooth ever!  These are my “go-to’s when I’m craving something sweet!.    

When I’m craving a milkshake…  I make this instead!     

5.9-my peanut butter shake

This is my version of the Peanut Butter Shake that I used to get with my daughter all the time.   I loved it but after drinking it, I’d feel weighed down and really lethargic.  Plus, the dairy didn’t help me either  (I curse my lactose intolerance almost every day!) 

So, I made a healthier version…here’s how… 

Get the glass that you want to serve it in, fill it up halfway with coconut/almond milk.   Put 1 Tb of Peanut Butter (natural & crunchy is the best) as well as frozen banana pieces (I cut up bananas ahead of time and keep them in the freezer every week).   We use our Single Serving Ninja blender (which I highly recommend to have) which makes it fast and easy clean up. 

You can also add chia and flax seeds for more fiber as well as any protein powder to give it more nutritional punch.  It’s fun to change it up too…I’ve made matcha (with a little of vanilla extract) , chocolate (using Chocolate flavored coconut/almond milk) and a variety of fruit flavors.  Just remember, coconut milk and bananas will be your base.   

Sometimes, you might just want a bite of something sweet.  I used to have chocolate kisses on hand all the time.    

5.9-ALmond-Kisses-nice-11.jpg

After all, one wouldn’t hurt, right? 

The big issue was one would turn into two or five (depending on the day I had)… 

Now, I reach for these instead… 
 
5.9-Dates
These are dates filled with nuts and so easy to make!

Take a date, slice it open, remove the pit and insert your favorite nut in it’s place.  I used almonds, walnuts and pecans. 

This really has done the trick and has train my taste buds.  I actually had a leftover Almond Kiss (waste not want not) and it was TOO sweet! 

Can you imagine?

 I’m going to be honest…

I will never give up BBQ Chips, Milkshakes or Hershey’s Almond Kisses. 

Life is way too short.  

However, what I've learned from this experience is that I don’t have to eat them all the time and these substitutions have done wonders for my body and my will power!   

I hope you try these and let me know what you think.  If you have other ideas, please feel free to share them…I need all the help I can get...

5.9-glasbergen-crouton on your sundae.jpg   
Till next time!  

If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you! I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you!

Sign up here...www.ready-set-go.me
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

CONNECT: Happily Ever After….and then some….


4.17-Blog - Connect



My guy and I just celebrated 8 years together!  However, our “meet cute” story was certainly not so cute and nothing like I had imagined it would be. 

 We met at a Brunch Meetup.  At that time of my life, I was happily “playing the field” as well as traveling a lot for work.  I’m not sure why but I was a Dude Magnet during that time...(Who knew that traveling cross country and surviving on 6 hours of sleep would do wonderful things with my personality and complexion?)  I embraced my “magnetism” and thoroughly enjoyed myself.  All the guys at the table were bending over backwards to make sure I was comfortable and my champagne glass was full. 

Except for the guy across me with the striking blue eyes.

 
My boss had recently raved about the “Eric” omelet (apparently, he was at this restaurant so much they made this special dish for him) and knowing I was a fellow foodie, strongly urged me to “drop his name” and they would make it for me… which of course, I did.
 

“WHO ARE YOU?  Why do you think you’re so special?  Do you think you’re a celebrity or something?”

 I was taken aback.  I never thought I was better than anyone else and the accusation stung.  I immediately went into a long detailed explanation about my boss and his omelet. 

CHIRP…Chirp…chirp… 

What a GREAT first impression that was…

 
We got our food…

 
“That looks interesting…can I have a bite of that?”
 

“Ummmm…..are you talking to me?  The “celebrity?” 
4.17-baffled-emoticon.jpg 

“Yeah…your omelet looks good” 

 

I finally noticed the twinkle in his eye…

 
Fifteen minutes later…

 
“That omelet was really good…are you going to finish that?”

 
Eight years later, he’s still finishing up my food…

 
Who knew that I would end up with a Star Wars/Trek (is there REALLY a difference?...) Geek whose idea of a great weekend away is an isolated cabin with no good restaurants or museums and can happily spend hours and HOURS playing volleyball in the hot sun?


My past relationships were never like this.  Rather, it would be different versions of the “meet cute” and go through the customary dating period, moving in together and two times, making it legal.  And I’d be happy ever after…for a little bit. And then like my pup that doesn’t want to take a bath, I’d look for any and every way out.

 
But, not this relationship…even after eight years, I still feel giggly and mushy inside when his eyes twinkle at me.  He has my back and still makes me laugh all the time.   He’s “my person” and I want to be with him as well as find out more about him every year that we’re together. 

 
He also frustrates the heck out of me.  I’ve never had anyone press my buttons as much as he does.  It hasn’t been smooth sailing all the time.  I remember when we tried to break up with each other…

 

“Well, I guess we should call it.”

 

“Yeah…I’m going to miss you.”

 

“Oh, no…I’ll still be around…in fact, I think we should get together at least twice during the week and the whole weekend to spend time together.  After all, I might starve.”

 

“Hmmm…should we just not live together?”

 

“Well, yeah…but it would be weird not living with you.”

 

“I don’t think I’d like that either.”

 

“So, what’s the issue again?”

 

“I forgot…”

 

That next Spring, we got each other commitment rings from Tiffany’s.  And, we never had THAT conversation again.
 

There are so many variables why this relationship works when all my other relationships didn’t.  I could spend hours and hours disseminating every little detail with my girlfriends over brunch but I need to start packing for our special anniversary trip to Italy.  I’ll leave you with this…

 

Our Relationship is REAL…

 

From the very beginning, this relationship was real in every way.  He showed me who he was at the very beginning and I showed him who I was.  We certainly didn’t put our best foot forward and have always been honest and upfront with what works and what doesn’t.  I didn’t pretend to love our “weekend away,” in fact, we moved to a nicer place the next night.  He doesn’t pretend to enjoy my fascination with American Horror Story and Gilmore Girls. 

 

He also accepts the fact that I will usually look up the recap before I watch a movie or television show…(to my credit, I NEVER reveal the spoiler…) I accept the fact that he will urge me to stay up to watch that same television show and then immediately nod off within the first five minutes.   And we both happily admit that we would rather order food to be delivered instead of getting “presentable” to go out on a date.  (Thank you, Postmates and Amazon Video!)

 

For me, this is Nirvana.  I don’t have to pretend to be anyone that I’m not and there is no bubble bursting when I realize, in mock horror, he actually likes the Star Trek pajamas that I gave him as a joke and wears them regularly during our Postmates & Amazon Movie date.   

 

We Focus on The Big Picture…

 

One thing that I’ve learned while in this long-term relationship is that this is NOT Burger King.  Having it MY way or His way doesn’t work in the long term.  What DOES work is focusing on the big picture… here are our priorities….

 

Health - I tell him all the time, “We need to be able to ‘torture’ each other until we’re ‘old,’ so we have to take care of ourselves so we’ll be around.”    No more cookies for breakfast (damn those blood tests!) and gourmet dinners with all the fine wine.  And yes, we’ve now reached that point where we will talk about our ailments within the first five minutes of our conversation… SWELL…

 

Security - We don’t want to scramble financially in our twilight years so we need to live within our means NOW.  This means we don’t have a big house and unfortunately, cannot travel to every place on our bucket list.  Although, to be honest, I’m still working on the Hot Tub justification because I think it would also improve our Health…wouldn’t you agree?

 

Connection - I have to admit, this is our most challenging task.  Both of us are driven and we make ourselves so busy that it would be easy to just focus on our goals.  But, we’ve made a pact…Time in the morning with our coffee and some snuggling at night. 

 

“I love you sweetie pie….”
 

“Yes, we're on Good Terms."
 
“Seriously?”

“What I really meant was I love you too...Sweet Dreams...”

 

We Learn Together

 

I will be 55 years old in a week.  I’ve been around the block (several times) and I know stuff.  My guy just turned 50 last month.  This isn’t his first rodeo…he knows stuff.  We both know stuff.  And, the most important thing is we both know that sometimes, we don’t know anything and we will never know everything.

 

And honestly, this is what keeps us going.   

 

“Why is the teen (aka Darth) so grumpy in the morning?  I’m trying to have a conversation with her and she seems like she’s mad?”

 

“Try asking her about what music she’s listening these days…”

 

“Wow…it worked!  I actually got four words this morning…I like this song.” 

(TINY, Tiny, tiny steps...)

 
I’m also always amazed how much I learn from My Guy.  Some stuff is quite humorous and does make me laugh out loud (usually, at his expense) and some stuff is quite valuable…although, I can be very reluctant to admit it to him face to face.  And, what’s really interesting is that I learn a lot about myself through his honest (and sometimes very blunt) observations and perceptions.  And believe me, this is reciprocated in our relationship.

 

This keeps us moving forward…

 

So, to My Guy…

 

Here’s to the life we built in the last eight years.   Our home, our community of friends, the Kid (now Teen) and our “Zoo.”  I will happily travel the world, taste the wines, dress up in elaborate costumes and even overcome my anxiety of zip lining with crazy Thai guides for you. .

 

Thank you for a fantabulous (MY word) eight years!   I look forward to more adventures and lessons and lots of laughter…




If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you! I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you!

Sign up here...http://ready-set-go.me

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

NURTURE: Are You Your Own Priority? Why Not?

4.4-Blog - Putting Yourself First




I have a client who is a full time working mother with a busy family.  She also has an active social life as well as volunteering at the local Veteran’s Group.  We chat at least once a month.   Last month, I noticed her voice was pretty raspy.


 “Hey…are you feeling ok?”


 “Oh sure, I’ve had this cold for two weeks now…I keep meaning to go to the doctor but my plate is so full right now.   I’m sure I’ll feel better soon”



 Three weeks later, we connected again.  Now, she sounded like a boy who was going thru the “change.”


 “Soooooo…how’s that cold of yours?”


 “I can’t believe I still have this!  We’re going to the doctor because my daughter is now sick and I don’t want her to get worse.”

 
Those of you who know me really well will say this client has the ALLIE  modus operandi because I WAS that client five years ago.

 
I remember when I was traveling for work and had that pesky “cold” for three months.  I finally went to the doctor and after she checked me out, she started to roll her eyes.   She asked me…   

 “Why has it taken you so long to come see me?  Is it really SO hard for you to put yourself as a priority?

 
How many of you out there feel this?

 
From my warped perspective, here’s what would happened if I took time off to take care of myself…

 

I would be so behind.

 

Stuff won’t get done right.

 

People would be let down.

 

 
Life has a funny way of working out.  Because I waited so long, my cold turned into Walking Pneumonia.  Guess what?

 

I got really behind because, inevitably, I had to reschedule everything.

 

Stuff didn’t even get started.

 

People were let down anyways.

 

I’m not sure why putting myself as a priority is such a hard concept for me to grasp.  Why am I in such denial?

 

“I have TOO much to do!...

 

“It will all FALL APART if I don’t take care of it!”

 

“I HATE telling people no!”

 

Let’s give each other an “IRL (In Real Life) check” for these above statements…

 

TOO MUCH TO DO!

 
We have too much to do because we, ourselves, have made it that way. 

 

It’s BIG thinking at it’s worst!  And really, how much are you really getting done?  What’s the quality of your solutions?  Do you ever feel relaxed?   Are you ever at peace?   Or, do you feel like you’re on a treadmill and it’s going too fast?   

 

I found that the treadmill doesn’t stop until I press “OFF”   There will ALWAYS be something to take care of.   And once you’ve set the expectation that you take care of everything 24/7, it’s hard to “shake” that reputation.  You will be the “go to,” ALL the time, whether it’s an emergency or not.

 

While this is flattering, it’s exhausting!  You’re not a machine…you’re a human that needs to eat, rest and shut “OFF” once in a while. 

 

 

IT WILL ALL FALL APART IF I DON’T TAKE CARE OF IT

 

Heard in my household…

 

“Hey, can someone load the dishwasher, please?”

 

“Why, Mom?  You’re a control-freak-a-holic…we all know that you go back and reload it anyways!”

 

My mom was married to Leo, a former Lieutenant Colonel in the Army.  The first week of their marriage, he tried to teach her how to make the bed the “military” way.  I wonder if my mom even tried because housework was never one of her favorite things.  Not surprisingly, her bed never passed inspection.   And my stepfather made the bed for the next 25 years. 

 

Based on these two examples, I’m going to guess that our control issues have backfired on us every time.

 

The need to have everything done “our way” leads us to a faulty perception...  If we don’t do it, then it won’t be done right and everything will fall apart.  I call it my Wonder Woman Complex.   

 

This theory might have served me well when I was just starting out in my career.  In graduate school, I had to make sure that everyone did their part in our group projects.  When I was in my first Recruiting Manager job, I had to make my recruiters followed the company process.  And as a single working traveling mother, I had to make sure that bags were packed with everything we needed.  Lots of detail management that was quite challenging for the non-detailed me.

 

This mentality doesn’t work as well for me now.  I have more responsibilities with even more details, players and impact to consider.  And although I’d like to think I’m still able to be Wonder Woman, I don’t necessarily want to be the lonely superhero anymore.

 

I like it when people help me out.  It helps me feel like I’m part of the world and not just running around saving the world by myself.

 

Look back on something that you’ve insisted on doing all yourself?  What was sacrificed?  Was it really worth it, in the long run?

 

Life as Wonder Woman can be exhausting …I’d much rather be snuggling with my "Lieutenant Trevor"…4.4-emoji - kiss

 

 I HATE TELLING PEOPLE “NO!”

 

Hello…my name is Allie and I’m a people pleaser.   There, I said it.  

 

I really like helping people and if I have a free hour, instead of doing yoga or taking time for myself…I would pick someone up, help them move, go to their child’s first violin recital (not recommended if you have a headache)…etc.   I love the intrinsic “warm fuzzy”  that  warms my heart when I know I’ve helped someone…hence, my career choice.

 

What I don’t like is when other things fall through the cracks because I was so busy focusing on someone else’s priorities instead of mine. 

 

How many times have you skipped your workout because you were helping someone else?  (Guilty!) 

Or, realized that you haven’t eaten anything all day because you promised to help a panicked coworker with a work crisis?  (Guilty!) 

My most recent embarrassing situation is when I was so busy getting my daughter ready for our party, I forgot that I needed time to get myself ready.  There is nothing like greeting your guest in a robe and turban and excusing yourself abruptly so you can get dressed in five seconds.   

 

All in all, this gets tiring.  And, I hate to admit this, but after some point, I become resentful.  I walk around with the biggest chip on my shoulder and develop the perception that people don’t appreciate me enough.  Then, it gets very very quiet in my household.  During our "snuggle time after the party, my partner commented, 

 

“You know…your daughter is now fifteen…I think she can get ready on her own now.”

 

“But, she asked me.  I liked helping her…”

 

“Oh, I see…What if I “asked” you to take care of yourself first and not walk around like a martyr?…Would this put me in front of the Priority Line?”

 

You know,…there’s some smarts underneath those adorable blue eyes of his.

 
It’s good to help people.  It’s also good to help yourself.  And as the flight attendant will tell you, you must make sure that your oxygen mask is on before you can help anyone else.  End of story…there is no way around that.

 

So, tonight, I’m taking the night off for myself.  The door is closed.   I’m doing a nice 90 minute Yin Yoga session and listening to Miles.  There’s a sign on my door that says, “Unless you’re bleeding or dying, do not disturb.”  My “zoo” is anxiously pacing outside my door (because they can’t read) ... eventually they give up.  There is a sense of calm in my house and it's generating from ME!

 

After my “ME” session, it's back to business.  My daughter proudly recites five minutes of Mandarin Chinese to me.  (Since I don’t understand Mandarin Chinese, I’m going to pretend it’s a poem honoring her wonderful, generous mother.)  My partner comes in happily announcing that he has advanced to the next level of his video game…We all have goals.  Each member of the "zoo" has demanded their nice belly rub and snuggle.  I have voicemails and emails to respond to.    

Yes, I'm still in demand and still have my responsibilities.  However, I'm in a much better state of mind now.   
 

There is too much to do but again, there will always be too much to do.

 

Things probably will fall apart but it’s not my responsibility to make sure that everyone is happy and everything is done.

 

People still love me when I say “No.”…in fact, in this house, they might even love me more now…

 

So, what about you? 

When are you going to start being your First Priority?


If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you! I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you! Sign up here… http://ready-set-go.me

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

ACHIEVE: PERSEVERANCE – Your Secret Weapon For Crossing The Finish Line!





 3.30-Blog - Perseverance

When I graduated from the IIN Health Certification Program, last September, I immediately started working on my new business, Ready Set Go!  Influenced by my Project Management background, I painstakingly laid out what I thought I needed to do to reach the goals that I set.

 

I grew up with a Chinese Tiger Mom and that upbringing automatically compels me to set the bar high.   My “lofty” plans included creating two Webinars, developing two eCourses and, of course, building my Coaching practice to at least ten private clients.  I also needed to set up my Social Media presence and brush up on my writing skills.  Oh, and I wanted to write my book.  ALL by the end of the year!

 

I might have had a pot of coffee while I was developing my 2017 Project Plan…

 

I also neglected to take in account that my To Do List included Mom Responsibilities of an Independent but Needy Teenager and Partner Responsibilities of an independent man who has no idea how to run a household or feed himself when I’m not with him.

 

Within two weeks, I started to feel a little overwhelmed…

 

I realized, although I was the Master of Recruiting, I was the Master of None when it came to starting an online Service Business.  That led me to sign up for numerous courses:  Digital Marketing… Find Your Niche…Social Media 101, etc, etc.    All these courses started with the basic fundamental skill…Writing.   Naturally, I signed up for the "30 Days of Better Writing" course.

 

I wrote my very first blog post that took me days to finish because I knew what I wanted to say but I was grasping for the perfect words to write it.   Finally, I was finished.

 

I made my inaugural post and waited eagerly to get a response from my community.  It would be my validation and that “pat on the back” to know I was on the right track.

 

CHIRP….Chirp….chirp….crickets for days…

 

As a Project Manager, I was ready to pinpoint the issue and solve the heck out of it.  I sought help from my two biggest supporters…the people I live with.

 

“I feel like I’m reading a memo from my boss.”

 

“Ummm….Mom…why do you use the word ‘collaborate?’…Can’t you just say working together?”

 

Back to the drawing board…

 

And then, I got hit with the dreaded Writer’s Block.

 

I have to tell you, I was SO productive in everything else except for working on my blog and business.  The house was spotless.  Gourmet meals were served for lunch AND dinner.  My laundry was done on a regular basis which meant I didn’t have to go out and buy new socks or underwear.   All in all, I felt pretty accomplished in everything…except my business.

 

I was discouraged, frustrated and stuck!

 

And then, I read an article from one of the many Writing Blogs I signed up for.   It recommended that writers write every day for at least fifteen minutes.  Didn’t matter if it was “publishable.”   Didn’t matter if it made sense.  If you couldn’t think of anything to write, they suggested writing, “I can’t think of anything to write” for the allotted time.

 

This “Stella” found her groove.

 

My very first day, I wrote, “This is stupid…I should go back to Recruiting” for fifteen minutes.  The next day, I started writing down why I DIDN’T want to go back to my old life.  I wrote down why I started this journey in the first place and what impact I wanted to make.  Although I didn’t mean to, I went over my required half an hour.  Per the recommendation, I just left it without looking or editing it.

 

The third day, I went back and read what I wrote.  I took the advice of my loved ones and didn’t write in a formal business-y tone.  I switched it up and found my  “voice.”   And I made (and still do) a daily habit of writing at least thirty minutes a day, six days a week.

 

Six months later, I’ve re-adjusted my Tiger goals and discovered that I really do love writing!  There’s been a positive response from my readers and I’ve figured out my mission for everything I write.  Good valuable insights with a big dose of humor!  I’ve been so encouraged that I’ve made finishing up my book one of my first priorities.

 

Oh sure…I have the days where I’d rather clean my house (said no one ever) and get a root canal then write.  But what I’ve learned from this experience is I do it anyways.   Although, I have more “un-publishables” than chapters and blog posts, I still know that I’m steadily pacing toward my mission.  My brain is alive with ideas and having the discipline to write every day helps me articulate my next steps and actions.  It’s also teaching me to cultivate patience, planning & timing…step by step…building my resources.

 

I’m a quarter way through my book now.  I’ve finished the Introduction and two sections of my book.  I’ve also realized that this book will be the foundation for my future eCourses and Webinars and will engage potential clients to want to work with me.

 

Perseverance shows up in small daily actions.

 

So, here’s some questions for you…

 

What is your goal or purpose?    

Are you getting distracted, discouraged or frustrated?   

How often are you working on it?

 

Perseverance has become my secret weapon while chasing after my dream.  Disciplined daily actions are building my skill set and toolbox.   It’s also strengthening my faith in the rough and discouraging times. 

 

So, where do you go from here?  What is something that you can do EVERY DAY that will get you closer to the life that you want? 

 

If you’re trying to eat healthier, eat at least one healthy meal EVERY day.  If you’re trying to get more exercise, find the time to fit in exercise time EVERY day.   If you’re working towards a goal, find time EVERY day to work on it.  If you’re feeling isolated, take the time EVERY day to connect with someone.  I think you get the picture…

 

Commit to nurturing your dreams and goals!

 

You’ll find that success will be inevitable…

If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you! I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you! Sign up here… http://ready-set-go.me

 

PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

NOURISH:  CREATE YOUR OWN DIET!    Here’s the Why and How!





 
 3.30-Blog - Create Your Own Diet



 

Overheard, while shopping…


 “Ok…I’m going to do it this year…I’m going to do everything I can to eat better …I want to fit into these jeans!"

 

“Hey, my friend went on the Vegan diet last year and she lost TONS of weight.  But wait…I can’t give up cheese…seriously?  Maybe, I should go Gluten Free or if I really want to lose… eliminate ALL grains?  Maybe, I should go Paleo?  ARGHHH, again with the “no cheese!” 

 

“Ughhh…maybe, I should just buy a bigger pair of jeans and eat whatever I WANT?  ”   3.30-Frustrated emoji

 

CAN YOU RELATE?

 

I can…that was me about five years ago.  I would have the same conversation with my girlfriends.  I’d go on a different diet every couple of months and do great the first week.   But, I’d get invited out or have a discouraging day (...sometimes, pie is the only cure…) and have a hard time getting back on track.  By the time the month was over, I’d start to hate the food I was eating.

 

And it would avalanche from there… I’d eventually go back to my ways of cake for breakfast and popcorn for dinner.  Luckily, I was fairly active and while I was eating my way out of my closet, it was just a matter of replacing items one at a time.  So, I lived in a wonderful delusional world that I was a healthy eater.

 

“Sooooooo, are we celebrating something?”

 

“No…strawberry pie has fruit in it…I’m just eating more fruit!”

 

It is well known among my friends and family that I’m a foodie and will chase all over town to try the new trendy dish or the dive that serves great chicken pies.   My partner and I have an understanding that while I may drive him crazy with everything else, he can always count on EATING WELL with me.  (P.S…A tip for success in a long relationship is consistency…)

 

Life, like this, was good…except when I turned 50.  It seemed like everything I ate would make me feel tired, edgy or bloated.  And that would make me less motivated to move or go out in the world.  That’s not the way I wanted to live!  So, for the next three years, it was the endless dieting cycle with, tragically, no lasting results…  

 

The truth is…there isn’t ONE diet that works for everyone…what’s really important is to find something that works for YOU!

 

If you think about it...there isn't just ONE pair of jeans that looks good on everyone.  We all have different shapes, sizes and preferences.  What looks good on my tall friend looks horrific on me.   We're the same size but I'd have to hem them and  because of my athletic muscle-ly calves, the jeans would look like leggings instead of jeans.  

We're all different and we should have individual eating plans that work best with our bodies, mental state and emotion well being.  Does that make sense?

This is how I did it…

 
Because we both weren’t feeling like spring chickens anymore, my partner and I went on the JJ Virgin Diet (aka The Elimination Diet).  It required us to take out foods that contained gluten, soy, dairy, eggs, corn, peanuts, sugar and sweeteners…basically everything I ate on a daily basis.

 

This was the looooooongest 21 days of my life….

 

But, it was also life changing…I learned a lot about my body and what it takes to make it run smoothly.

 

For the next 2 months, I learned I had reactions to Dairy, Wheat, and Meat (especially poultry & beef ).  Because of who I am…the overachiever…I would only allow myself these limited choices.  My diet consisted of fish & vegetables.  That was it.  What made things worse was the the diet didn’t make my life better at all!   I was bored, more antisocial and HUNGRY!

 

This was NOT going to be the option for me either…

 

So, I went back to the drawing board and started experimenting.  I found that I could eat a little dairy and a little gluten.  I started to add small portions of yogurt and sourdough toast (still healthy!) in my diet which made my day much brighter and best of all, made me much more tolerable.

 

I found that meat was the main culprit for my indigestion and that really encouraged me to find new protein sources besides just fish.  I started to incorporate more plant proteins such as lentils, split peas (LOVE the soup), quinoa, nuts and unprocessed soy.  And when I craved ice cream, I’d blend my plant protein with coconut milk and frozen bananas for a treat.

 

I’m not hungry anymore…

 

I have my own “Allie” Diet that works wonders for me!  I really feel great…I fit in those jeans (although now, they’re a little roomy) and I’m happy!  And occasionally, I can even indulge in  strawberry pie.  (Because, let’s face it, people…life is too short without strawberry pie.)

 

Would this work for you?  Here are my three tips before you start:

 

·Start with a Detox Diet just so you have a “clean” body to work with.  There are some great ones out there and you’ll be able to really pinpoint what your body is feeling.  (P.S…I’m creating one next Summer so be sure to check back)

 

· After the “clean” period is over, start introducing the foods that you eliminated ONE at a time.    Start small and increase your amount by 25%, 50% & 75%.  I didn’t do that and consequently, I mistakenly took out those food groups when all I had to do was eat less of it.  It’s so easy to get carried away but eliminating complete food groups may not be a great lasting solution.  Moderation is much better than complete elimination.  Trust me…you’ll thank me in the long run.

 

·Get yourself a partner. Eliminating foods can be really isolating and sometimes you might not get the support that you really need and you’ll give up.  (When I did this, my mother would roll her eyes and insist on ordering me dessert…this made me feel very neurotic.)  You’ll find trading stories and ideas with someone who is experiencing the same things you are very motivating and both of you will stick to your program.

 

For more help with this, feel free to reach out!  I always offer a free consultation and you’ll walk away with some pretty good ideas to get you going…(offer is at the top of the site...just click!)

 

I know you can do this…

 

Happy Eating….


If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you! I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you! Sign up here… http://ready-set-go.me



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

ACHIEVE: 5 Steps to Getting Unstuck


2.28-RSG-ACHIEVE-Getting Unstuck



ACHIEVE:   5 Steps to Getting Unstuck

 

We all hear about the Asian Tiger Moms.  You know, the mothers that are VERY focused on their children excelling at everything?  I think the true intent of these strategic parents is to be able to scare the child into submission by keeping them constantly busy and exhausted…they really can’t get into too much trouble because they are so tightly held accountable to grades and goals.  (Totally worked for me and my brother)

 

The Joy Luck Club was basically my childhood.  My parents, while they loved me in their own “Chinese” way, had extremely HIGH expectations.  A-‘s were considered Asian F’s.  (between you and me, I think Glee was written by an Asian…)  I’ve only recently started to enjoy playing the piano and playing tennis on my own without the obsession of winning the tournament and being the star at the Spring Recital.  Sadly, it’s taken me a while to get to this point… just about 40 years.

 

The obsession to “win” carried on into my adult life.  After I got my MBA, I started my own consulting business where I got to travel most of the week.  I traveled so much that I often had to look at the hotel stationery so I could figure out what city I was in.  And then, at 40, we adopted our daughter from China.   The strain of two traveling professionals with a 13-month benevolent tyrant (BT) strained our relationship and unexpectedly, we, reluctantly, became a single parents. 

 

Because we were “winners”, we made co-parenting successful.   I was able to adapt my working life to the “new normal” and when the BT was with her dad, I would eagerly take on more projects, usually working all the time she was gone.  When we were together, I tried to make up all the time I missed with her …we would have countless adventures with many people to meet and places to explore.

 

Everything was great…I was winning!

 

Except…on most days, I had a hard time getting out of bed.  I was exhausted and not too happy with where my life was going.  I had a hard time connecting my daily activities with a purpose…except to keep my child alive & thriving.  And while, I think I’m a good Tiger Mom…that wasn’t enough for me.  Something was missing…

 

I WAS STUCK!

 

Fast forward, ten years.  I found what I was missing and while my life is just as hectic and crazy as always, these days, I feel like I’m consistently moving forward.   I now go to bed feeling content & fulfilled (not exhausted) and look forward to starting my day.…

 

I learned a lot throughout this journey and I’d like to pass on what I’ve learned to you.  Here are five ideas to get you started…

 

#1 - Get More Space…

 

“Ok, what does that mean?  Does this mean I have to move out?”

 

(My partner is hilarious…I really need to get a different editor.) 

 

But he is on the right track.  Of course, you’re not going to move out of where you are now but carving a space (in time and in your mind) will help you develop & evolve yourself beyond where you are today. 

 

Think about it…if you’re so busy, rushed & burdened, you know you’re not being effective.  In fact, you might be spending  valuable time “undoing” and fixing things because you weren’t being effective in the first place.

 

On top of that, I bet you’re EXHAUSTED!

 

What are you tolerating?  Figure out an exit strategy from that situation.  Clearing the drains & strains in your life means that you’ll gain more resources & energy to be able to do the things you really want to do!

 

 Step #2 – Became More Open to Seeing Things Differently

 

Now that you have some space, start to see things from a different angle.   Reassess your “stories” and reactions.  It was an “eye-opener” for me to realize that my assumptions and beliefs that I created in my 20’s looked so different now.

 

Raising awareness  within yourself will change your reactions and expectations.  And most importantly, your definitions and approaches to what is “successful” to you will evolve.  This will keep you moving forward and open more opportunities in your life.

 

Step #3 – Find & Tap Into Your Sparks

 

Ask yourself these following questions:

 

What do you absolutely need to find out more about?  (Curiosity spark)

 

What topics/ideas do you connect with?  (Fascination spark)

 

What gets you “in the zone” where you can spend hours and hours? (Immersion spark)

 

What keeps you committed to improving your skills & knowledge? (Mastery spark)  

 

What drives you to “make an impact?  (Service spark)

 

Which answers came on the tip of our tongue?   These would be your most dominant sparks. 

 

When I did this exercise, I connected with the Service spark questions instantly!   Knowing someone has been positively impacted by my action is my definition for success.

For me, planning my projects and actions around a Service purpose helps me feel like I’m on the right path. Which is why I’ve developed Ready Set Go!  I want to motivate and inspire you to make small changes in your life!   

Knowing what comes easily and naturally to you will help you start planning your journey around the ability to spend as much of your energy pursuing your these sparks.

 

Step #4 – Figure Out What Matters Most To You?

 

Now, you know what really sparks you up!  This awareness will help you filter down so you can really identify what you really do want.  Don’t dwell on how bad your current situation is…this is what’s making you stuck.  Think instead of moving towards what you do want.  Some things to think about are:

 

The Transformation – How do you feel now?…What do you want to feel instead?...  How will you change?

The Vision – How will you know that you got “there?”  How will you measure success?


Valuing the Process is the ultimate goal.  My favorite saying is, “It’s not just the destination…it’s the journey.”

 

Step #5 – Understand & Accept Your Obstacles

 

Everyone hits a wall…if you didn’t have obstacles, then you probably wouldn’t be stuck? 

 

Practice that openness in Step #2.  Instead of looking at this as an obstacle, look at this as a great learning experience.  What can you control?  What can you influence?  Analyze what’s getting in your way and think of different ways to work through it or around it

 

Change your timeline…change your destination but keep going forward.  Ignoring your obstacles will just lead to delaying or even giving up what you set out to do.  And, then you’re right back where you were at the beginning of this article.

 

And, no one wants that…

 

I’m curious to hear if this approach works for you!   Feel free to comment below about your experience and how this might work (or not work) for you…

 

Till next time…

If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you. I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you! Sign up here… http://ready-set-go.me
PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

NURTURE: Honoring Your Inner Voice

2.28-RSG-Dont-shush-your-inner-voice


 
Have you ever kicked yourself for not listening to that inner voice?

 

I’ve kicked myself so much... I have bruises!

 

As many of you may know, I’ve been a recruiter for many many years and I’m quite good at it…I’m the one who can find the “needle in the haystack” and hire 60 people in 30 days.  (Yay me!)  But after 20+ years, I can do it in my sleep and sadly, have found less joy & satisfaction at the end of the work day. 

 

So, I started my journey to figure out, “what’s it all about, Allie?”

 

“I think you should coach, honey…you’re very good at telling me what to do.” 

 

Let me clarify here…I’m really good at “suggesting” what I think my partner should do.   And although, I hate to admit it…in a sense… he was a ‘little’ right.   (Shhhhh…)  I really do like helping people and coaching definitely sparked an interest.  But, I approached this career path with a bit of caution…my previous exposure to Life Coaching had a very “You go, Girl!” theme and I’d mostly observe Life Coaches telling their audience that they can JUST DO IT no matter what kind of circumstances that client is facing.  And then, after their “show,”  they would just walk away…

 

This way didn’t work for me at all.  In my career, I know that reaching our goals is a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and planning.  I didn’t want to be a  “cheerleader” …I really wanted to help people figure out their pain point and help them acknowledge what they were willing to do to eliminate that.  Step-by-step.  #notawoowoogirl

 

I did my research and some networking to find a program that was right for me.  I enrolled into Coach U and after my first 6 months of classes, I really grew to love it.  I wasn’t learning how to tell my clients what to do at all…I was guiding them, helping to honor their inner voice and motivating them to DO something about it.  And, once they came up with a plan, I’d gently hold them accountable for the deadlines that they would set for themselves. 

 

THIS was my purpose now.  I started dreaming about when I'd open my own practice…

 

Because of my history in recruiting, it was just assumed that I would go into Career Coaching.  Simple, right?   However, for me, there is SO much more!  To help someone figure what they really want to do takes MUCH more than just talking about resumes, interviews and promotions. 

 

You really have to be able to understand your client…what they want…why they want it…and what they’re willing to do or give up to have it.  And, we all know, that our careers are not the only things that will make us satisfied and happy with our lives.  Many people I know have GREAT jobs they love…but they’re still struggling with a health, relationship or life balance issue.


But, even the coach doesn't keep her eye on the ball all the time...

 
 “Honey, you are SO good at career coaching…why complicate your life?  Just help people get the jobs they want and they’ll be happy…which means you will be happy…which means I’LL be happy…”

 

Again, my partner had a point...he's on a winning streak.  I have 20+ years experience in hiring people and helping candidates get the jobs they want.  And part of the reason I wanted to scale back from my consulting was to be able to establish a better Life Balance.   More time to spend with him and my kid…More time to spend rescuing animals…More time with my friends… More time for myself.

 

So, I altered my path.  I’ve always admired a well-known company and an opportunity came up for me to do some passive recruiting.   Passive recruiting is when a recruiter reaches out to employees of competing companies to establish connections.  I was supposed to find out what that candidate was missing from their current situation and highlight my company instead.   


I had a list of my client's company's advantages and benefits ready but most of the people I connected with weren't interested in that.  What they really wanted to focus on was how to get out of the field itself and pursue their “real” life dreams.  

 

Hmmmm…that inner voice was talking to me again...

 

Since my new assignment was flexible, I also started volunteering to do Career Coaching for veterans.  And, guess what?  Although our conversations would start out about helping them find a job, we’d spend most of the time trying to figure out how they could live the life they really wanted.

 

Now, the inner voice was getting louder…

 

After being with the passive recruiting assignment for a while, the company was very pleased with my work and I got a call from my client wanting to make our arrangement “official.”   While I was flattered and my ego was soaring, my body started giving me very different signals.   My throat started to close up and all of a sudden, I felt really flushed. 

 

Now, my inner voice was shouting!  “STOP…THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT!”

 

I gave notice the next day.  I knew I had to keep moving forward on the path that I envisioned my Life Purpose to be.   And while I  still got a thrill in finding my "needle in the haystacks," in my heart, what I really want to do is help people live the life that they really want to live. 

 

From that day on, I made the commitment to myself to found and develop Ready Set Go!  To get you unStuck.  To help you become aware how Health, Balance, Purpose and Connections all contribute to keep you moving forward.  To help you with what’s holding you back from living the life that you want.  

 

And, I’ve never looked back. 

 

Sure...I have less time and money for other things now but I'm happy!  I know I’m on my right track because I’m finally listening and committing to my inner voice... to live the life that I want.  

 

How about you?…What’s your inner voice telling you?

If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List. I promise not to bombard you. I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships. I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you! Sign up here… http://ready-set-go.me


 

 

 
PermaLink:
Tags:
allison_lowe@yahoo.com

NOURISH: 3 Natural Ways To Beat A Cold!

2.24-RSG-Blog-3 Natural Ways to Beat A Cold.jpg

NOURISH:  3 Natural Ways To Beat A Cold!

 

Well, despite the fact that I was running from it as fast as I could, I caught the dreaded cold that everyone has or had...some people I know are actually on their third round.

 

You know what I’m talking about…it first starts as the sniffles (I knew I shouldn’t have done yoga with the cat….) and then the headache, stuffiness and crankiness.

 

“WHY are you breathing so loud?”

 

No respectful words can describe the look I give to my partner.

 

Then comes the full on runny nose and congestion.  This is truly my version of hell.  Not only is it embarrassing to walk around with Kleenex up my sleeve but I’m basically Patient O.

 

“Mom, please don’t sit there…I’ll bring you some hot tea when you GO BACK TO YOUR OWN ROOM!”

 

Are you feeling the love in my house?...

 

I’ve found that using over-the-counter cold medicine’s side effects are usually worse than the cold itself.  Any alcohol-based or antihistamines drugs usually cause my digestive systems to revolt and I hate waking up several days later not knowing where or who I am.

 

And, let’s face it…most of us don’t have time to be down…even for a day!    After all, it’s not like I have the “Man-Flu!  (For those of you who live with males, you know exactly what I’m referring to…)

 

So, this last time, armed with new knowledge of natural remedies, I attacked this nasty bug with everything I learned.  I instantly started to feel better and was able to learn how to put my first Newsletter together.  (Stay tuned…)

 

I got back on track within two days!  Here are my three natural weapons to attack a cold:

 

#Weapon 1 - Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

 

So much has been written about this miracle natural remedy.  It’s anti-glycemic and can help with blood sugar and diabetes control.  It’s also known to be full of probiotics and other beneficial bacteria, which will support your immune function. 

 

But the most important feature, especially, when you’re all stuffed up, is that ACV contains potassium (this thins the mucus) and acetic acid. (This prevents germ growth which is most likely contributing to your nasal congestion.)  Boil some water and put a teaspoon of ACV in and drink it like a tea. 

 

ACV also helps with that sore throat.  Most germs can’t survive in the acidic environment it creates.  Mix ¼ cup of ACV with ¼ cup of warm water, gargle every hour and you’ll notice results right away.  

 

For the dreaded cough, you can make your own natural cough syrup by mixing ground ginger, cayenne pepper, and honey with ACV.  This will also clear congestion as well as reduce your cough naturally.

 

Make sure that you use the unfiltered kind…here’s what I use - http://bragg.com/products/bragg-organic-apple-cider-vinegar.html.  I order mine from Amazon and you can easily find unfiltered ACV in most grocery stores.

 

#Weapon 2 – Essential Oils

 

Last year, I was introduced to Doterra (www.doterra.com).   I’ve always heard about essential oils but never really used them except in my bath.  Now, I take them internally or put a couple of drops in a diffuser.  I never realized that this natural remedy could be so effective, especially when I’m not feeling good. 

 

Here’s what I used:  

 

Breathe - Breathe is a Doterra blend of essential oils including Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca (aka Tree Tea), Lemon, Cardamom, Ravintsara, and Ravensara.  I put a drop or two on my hands, rub then together and cup my hands to cover my nasal passages…then, I take a deep breathe in.   I also rub a little bit on my nostrils as well as on the side of my nose, just for good measure.  If you’re really congested, you can also rub it on your neck and chest.  This works fast and clears you up almost instantly!  You can also use Breathe in the bath or diffuser.  If your skin is sensitive, be sure to dilute the oil with a carrier oil/lotion. 

 

On Guard – is also a Doterra blend of essential oils consisting of Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Bark/Leaf, Eucalyptus Leaf, and Rosemary Leaf/Flower.   These oils are known for their positive effects on the immune system.  I take this internally with a glass of water and I feel my body getting stronger by the minute.

 

Oregano - is one of the most potent and powerful essential oils and has been used for centuries in traditional health practices for its cleansing and immune-boosting properties.  Caution should be taken when inhaling or diffusing Oregano; only one to two drops is needed.  I put a drop in a glass of water along with my OnGuard.

 

Of course, you don’t have to use this brand exclusively.  You can very easily go to the health store that sells these essential oils and actually mix up a custom blend of your own.  Just make sure to ask the expert on staff…sometimes, oils may not blend as well together or if you have certain allergies, they may be able to suggest some alternatives for you. 

 

One important thing to remember is to make sure that the oils you use are pure 100% essential oils, especially if you’re taking them internally.  I used to buy my oils thru Amazon.   I did some Internet research and I learned that many manufacturers put in unnatural fillers!    Yuck!  Doterra (https://doterra.com/US/en) and Young Living (https://www.youngliving.com) are the most reputable pure Essential Oil sources

 

 

 

#Weapon 3 – Bone Broth

 

Ok…hopefully, you’re now less congested and your throat is less sore.  Now, let’s work on getting rid of this nasty bug and make it stay away. 

 

When I’m sick, I usually will sip as much Bone Broth as I can and again, I usually start feeling better by the afternoon.  I’ve added this to my daily routine just to build up my immune system.

 

Bone broths have been known to promote healing in several ways, mainly by fighting off infections from viruses that cause the flu and colds.   There’s scientific support that chicken soup can help you with the common cold.  Chicken contains a natural amino acid called cysteine, which can thin the mucus in your lungs and make it less sticky so you can expel it more easily.  Bone broth is also a highly nutrient-dense food.  It is rich in minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

 

Bone broths are extremely inexpensive and easy to prepare.  They can be made from the bones of healthy animals such as beef, bison, lamb, poultry or fish.   Many ethnic food stores will sell the bones alone for very cheaply.  There are some really great recipes to make your own…just plug in “Bone Broth Recipes” in your search engine and several recipes will come up. 

 

Now I wish I could tell you that I am a domestic goddess and I make a batch every week.  But, I don’t.  Sometimes, I juggle so much, I forget what I’m juggling…but that’s another blog post.   For those of you in my shoes, you can also buy really good Bone Broth.  Any health food store will have them or you can also order online.  I use the brand, Osso Good (https://www.ossogoodbones.com).

 

For me, bone broth is an acquired taste.  If you’re just starting, try diluting ½ cup with hot water.  Pretty soon, you’ll get used to the taste and then you’ll start to crave it.

 

My partner recently got my cold.  I quickly gave him these three natural remedies. 

 

“Hey, I feel much better now.  I must have had just a normal cold instead of my “Man Flu…”

 

Between you and me, I think this would work for the Man Flu too.  I hope you feel better soon…let me know how this works for you!

 

If you liked this article and want more, I’d love to include you in my Email List.  I promise not to bombard you.  I send out monthly newsletters with helpful articles & invites that may help alleviate your frustrations with Health, Life Balance, Career, Purposes & Relationships.   I think this information would be useful and valuable and it's at no cost to you!  Sign up here… http://ready-set-go.me 

 

 

PermaLink:
Tags:
Next Previous
Nourish...Nurture...Achieve...Connect!
Let's get you UnStuck!

I'm just a phone call away...Sign up for a Free Consultation!   
© Copyright, RSG Inc. All Rights Reserved