Ready Set Go!
Ready Set Go!
Nourish...Nurture...Achieve...Connect! This blog will include
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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


 


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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



 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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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

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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


 

 

 

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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 

 

 


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allison_lowe@yahoo.com

CONNECT: The Truest Love is Sacrifice


2.1-I am an Immigrant



Every February 15, appropriately right after Valentine’s Day, my daughter and I celebrate Gotcha Day.  Along with a stubborn tendency to be “right” and a healthy obsession with shows like Gilmore Girls, Law & Order and Buffy The Vampire Slayer, we also share the same history. 

 

Me first…

 

When, I was a baby in Hong Kong.  I was left in an alley, most likely by my biological mother. 

 

And yes, had I not been picked up…I would have died from exposure or even had a worse fate.  Luckily, for me…it didn’t happen that way…

 

While some people’s immediate reaction is sadness or anger, I was lucky enough that my mother (who adopted me when I was 2.5) was able to frame it in a different way.   She always emphasized that I was never ever abandoned…my bio mom loved me more than herself because she sacrificed happiness as my mother so I could have a better life.  Interestingly enough, there has been books about adoption in China which supports my mother’s story. 

 

Mothers who were caught in unfortunate circumstances would travel at least 2 hours away so their baby girls could be eligible for foreign adoption since they would be officially “abandoned” with no known ties.  Heartbreaking stories about a mother leaving her baby in a well traveled place (post offices, markets, popular alleys), ducking out of sight but always keeping an eye on the baby and following whoever took that baby.  Once she was assured that the baby was in safe hands, usually an orphanage or a government official, she would then leave to go on with her life.  Interviews with these Chinese mothers reflected how these mothers never forgot their babies.  They would always pray and hope that their girls were happy, healthy with a better life outside of China.

 

When it came time to start a family, I knew I always wanted to adopt from China too.  When I met my daughter in Nanjing, I really came to understand the love a mother has for her child.  I anxiously fussed making sure her crib was warm and comfortable and could watch her sleep for hours.  I would give her the best food first so she would eat well.   I would do anything to make her smile and laugh.  I would have panic attacks if I didn’t know where she was every second. And I would hold her as much as I could and nestle my face in her hair, inhaling every scent of her.   All these actions gave me the addicting bursts of love that we feel and chase after.  I experienced all of this after only 2 days with her…

 

My friends tell me that they’ve experience similar feelings while they were pregnant and still have those strong feelings.   Note:  Some of their kids have graduated college and starting their own families now!

 

To imagine giving up your child is painful as well as unfathomable.  I honestly don’t know if I could do that today, even though I know how I personally benefited from that action.  Yet, my biological mother and my daughter’s biological mother did so we could have a better life.  And without their sacrifices, my daughter and I might have had very different lives in China.  

 

I feel such love and gratefulness to these two women.  They are the reason why I’m here, able to tell my story to you.  And my daughter now has a chance to live a life that isn’t shameful or harsh. 

 

That’s true love, folks…true love. 

 


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allison_lowe@yahoo.com

ACHIEVE: THE VALUE IS IN THE PROCESS!

8.17-RSG Website - Machu Pichu



Are you making those New Year's Resolutions?  I'M NOT!...

Being the former Type A personality, I used to make my New Year's
 Resolutions every year...usually, after a short period of time (I once made it to 6 months!), I break the resolutions.  This usually results in me feeling like a failure or a complete fool...Well, NO MORE!

For 2017, I'm setting Intentions instead...

Launching my business, writing my first book, developing live webinars and eCourses are some of the things I’d like to complete this year.   In addition, I want to eat less meat, dairy, wheat, and sugar…no more cookie breaks! 1.5-emoji.tears-flow-emoticon.jpg  I also want to consistently make time for my daily workouts…(so I don’t get SO irritated with my teenager!)   Last but not least, I'm going to network more, make new connections as well as strengthen and nurture my current relationships.  (While my pups are wonderful company, I need to have REAL conversations!)

"What happened to being 'balanced' and not stressing out this year?" 

My partner thinks that I'm insane…and I’m sure you probably think he’s right.   He is a rational and reasonable guy and when he suggests that I  “ease up” or take some  things off of my list, I actually think about it...for a minute...

But, not this time...


WHY?


Because…I finally got it...THE VALUE IS IN THE PROCESS…

Here's how I shifted my perspective... 

When my mother passed in 2014, I was devastated.  I had a hard time moving pass the grief and found myself stuck in my memories and sadness.  I wanted to escape home during the holidays and dragged my family across the seas to Chiang Mai, Thailand to distract myself from my miserable state.  But because there is a higher power, I found myself in front of a Thai Monk who helped me understand that attaching myself to the end result would most always lead to sadness and disappointment.  And it was true…focusing on the fact that my mother was gone was definitely detrimental.  But focusing on the time I had with her help me get back the joy in our relationship!  And that was what is most important.


So, I'm going in 2017 knowing that I might not get all those things done on my list.  Realistically, I'm gonna eat dessert and be a couch potato some days.  I may only finish 3 out of the 4 things I want to do for my business.  And, that's okay...

For 2017,
I will make a conscious effort to NOT get attached to the outcomes.  This has happened too many times in the past and I'm NOT getting stuck this year!  (Besides, Game of Thrones doesn't come on until the Fall...)

Instead, I’m going to focus on the building my skills and getting new experiences.  I'm looking for those "A HA" moments.  I’ll be in constant learning mode and keep moving forward with my vision one step at a time…

And this year, I won't feel like giving up because I'll already be getting the VALUE OF THE PROCESS!


 

Sound good?  WHO’S WITH ME?  What are YOUR Intentions for 2017?

 

I’d love to hear about your progress for this year!  Sign up on my email list and be part of our community! 

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Allie


 

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allison_lowe@yahoo.com

CONNECT: Not Another Party...When Can I Go Home?...3 Party Survival Tactics To Get You Through The Season!

12.7-RSG Blog-Introvert Parties


It’s that busy holiday time…there is something about the holidays that encourages me to make a special effort to go out to reconnect and socialize.  However, the more parties & events I go to, the more I desire to be alone.   In fact, if you know the true definition of an introvert (to turn inward or in upon itself), you would agree that I would fall into the introvert category. However, my Significant Other completely disagrees with me on this point. 

 

“You’re not an introvert…I can never keep track of you at parties…You’re always working the room…and usually part of the loudest group.”

 

Ok…he does have a point.  I do like spending time with people I know and am comfortable with.  But when it comes to events with new people or people I don’t see on a regular basis, I tend to drag my feet. You might have some of those events on your calendar.   Like the Significant Other’s office party (...smile & try to remember names…), the Reciprocal Cocktail Hour (...they’ve come to so many of our things, we have to go to theirs….) and my all time favorite…the Awkward Extended Family Holiday Gathering (...oh look…THEY’RE here…are you two married yet?...)

 

Usually before, during and after these gatherings, I desperately fight the urge to run home to my fuzzy pajamas and cuddly 4-legged roomies. They don’t mind if I don’t speak for hours and they don’t judge me when I endlessly snack.   And frankly, they don’t care if I’m not dressed up or if my hair is brushed...the bonus is that they will happily clean up any crumbs from my holiday goodies.

 

Can you relate?  I think, especially during this hectic Holiday Season, we can all have introvert-like tendencies…(...please say you do…I don’t want to be alone in this!)  In the spirit of the Holidays, I will share my 3 Party Survival Tactics that get me through the season…

 

#1-Fake It Until You Make It

 

“You’re not going like that, are you?” 

 

With my new career path, I’m often in my "athleisure" attire  (aka comfortable, stretchy & nap-able) because I’m usually in front of a laptop or on the phone.  If I do look in the mirror, I usually will cringe slightly just because I’m horrified about how many directions my hair can and will actually go .  Mentally, I’m also very much into my head…focused with thoughts and brilliant ideas on how to change the world... well, you get the picture.

 

So, that’s the first step for me.  I have to get out of that persona and physically transition into the “extroverted” me.   This means tackling my hair and putting on nice clothes (without dog hair) and shoes that aren’t loud slippers or flip flops.  While I’m getting ready, I’ll put on music that will get me in the mood.  (No, it’s not cheerful Santa music but if it works for you, by all means,  “Deck Those Hollies!”)   Eventually, I can will work myself up to that “Hi, I’m Allie…How are you!?” state. 

 

“Wow…you do clean up nicely!”

 

Step One…Completed

 

#2 – Come to the Party With Relatable “Ice Breakers”

 

If you’re part of a couple (or you have a really good friend), you usually have a “rescue gesture” that translates into “Come HELP me get away from this conversation”  (NOTE:  Drinking your cocktail/wine in one gulp is not your best option…in fact, it could be dangerous for you and really annoying for those around you…)  What is actually even worse than this situation is realizing that YOU may be the person that everyone is trying to get away from!

 

So, come prepared.  Think of at least 2 to 3 Ice Breakers …common subjects that you feel comfortable talking about and that other people will feel comfortable hearing.  Make sure that your subjects are inclusive and that other people can relate to them and will contribute to that conversation.  Make them happy and humorous subjects…weather, kids, puppies…Be sure to ask them questions about how they feel about the weather, kids and puppies.

 

Make sure you have back-up subjects…when the person’s eyes glaze over and they start looking in different directions, you’ve clearly hit the buzzer…time to change the subject quickly. 

 

Long story short…try and find a commonality with the people you’re socializing with.   This will help you enjoy your evening as well as let people enjoy you.

 

 

#3 – Come With NO Expectations

 

You look fabulous!  You have great Ice Breakers!…You will have met interesting  people!…Now, your whole life will change!    Ok, that’s not true…your whole life will not change…at least, not with that one party.  That party is the tip of the iceberg.

 

I have had introverted clients who have major expectations when they make the effort to come out of their shells.  And almost 90% of them, come away discouraged and disillusioned.  I feel them…it’s such a big step to break away from what we know and what we’re comfortable with.  It’s the Cinderella syndrome where she gets to be a princess all night and then it’s all taken away from her after the evening is over.  But, I think if we focus on the fantasy and not the reality, we set ourselves up for disappointment.

 

The reality is things don’t change overnight…or in a week…or in a month or a year. Things change gradually and when you’re consistent, they become more of a real shift.  The hardest challenge is to take action to leave something that you’re comfortable in and explore what you don’t know.  There’s no guarantee whether we’ll like it when we get there but we won’t know until we’ve tried.  

 

I’ve never been a big fan about getting a trophy for “showing up” but here’s where I’ll make that exception.  You may not see the payoff right away but it will come.  If I succumbed to my introvert tendencies, I would have never met the people I consider my lifelines.  I would have never found the career path that keeps me fulfilled and content.  I would have never met my partner that gets me out and about.

 

Instead, I would probably be on a constant sugar high and only have meaningless conversations with creatures that hog the couch and steal my snacks.   And while that is heaven some of the time, I also need human connection. 

 

It’s been a pleasure to share my thoughts with you for this year…I’m taking a nice long Holiday break (more parties and more snacks!) …I’m looking forward to connecting with you all in 2017!

 

Happy Holidays!

 

 

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allison_lowe@yahoo.com

ACHIEVE: Following and Living Your Dream... 4 things You Should Know Before You Start Your Journey…

11.18-RSG-Coffee Blog Post




When I look back in my career, I always fondly remember when I was working with the Client Adoption Team at  Monster Worldwide.   We were a fairly new group with many initiatives to implement and we were very successful.  It was definitely hard and satisfying work and during our most challenging and stressful 48 hour days, we would remind each other how we were “Living the Dream!”    

 

Up until last year, I was a Corporate Recruiting Consultant working with some great companies building their teams.  I’d been doing this for most of my working life and while I really liked what I was doing, I felt something was missing.   I was really stuck!   After some intense soul searching and understanding what I needed, I made the decision to leave my established career and start my own Coaching practice.   Again, I’m "Living the Dream!"   I was able to uncover my Life Purpose (more about that in future posts)  and create work for myself where I could live my dream every day.  Looking back, this was one of the most challenging times for me and completely worth it!  My life has definitely changed for the better.

 

I can happily tell you that I go to bed each night feeling pretty content and usually wake up inspired and ready to go.  Ok, that might be pushing it…in reality, you won’t see me “ready to go” while getting my daughter to school at 6 am …let me change that statement to read…”after my first cup of coffee, I’m inspired and ready to go!” 

 

Are you living your dream?  Are you working in your dream job?  Satisfied with your health and fitness?  Living with people who you connect with and feel supported?  Incorporating a balance of Work & Life?   I’m going to guess that since you’ve read this far, you’re probably pursuing your dream or at least, thinking about it.  Here are 4 things that I wish I knew when I was pursuing mine.

 

1/Get comfortable with not KNOWING things. 

 

I consider myself pretty knowledgeable about most things.  But changing career paths and my expertise field was daunting.  I knew I brought a valuable education and broad experience from my past career but there were a lot of aspects that I really needed to educate myself on.  Which is what I did…I enrolled in a Coaching program and took an additional program with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition which helped me specialize in Holistic Nutrition and Wellness.  And, I’m still taking writing, teaching and entrepreneurial courses that will hone my skills even more.   I’ve learned to love learning and if you think about it…a thirst for something new is what was probably driving me to make a change. 

 

So, don’t discourage yourself with feelings of inadequacy…know that you will be lacking in some areas and take the positive steps to narrow that gap!

 

2/Really understand the WHY of your Dream!

 

When my clients tell me about their Dream, the first thing I want to know is why this is so important to them?   Trust me, there’s no judgment in this question at all.  The point of this question is to uncover and understand what is motivating them and for them to know that this is really what they want!   

 

I wanted to go to Law School for the longest time…took the LSAT and got into a great program.  When someone asked me how I was going to juggle my family and work, I realized that my family would be always more important than my job.  I became a mom within a year and I was so happy that I could balance a family life with my career.  So many of us chase what we think we want and then when we get there, we find that we don’t want to be there at all or other things are more important to us.   So here are some good questions to ask yourself before you start…

 

  • WHAT does my Dream LOOK like?…Paint a picture of your Vision as detailed as possible…
  • HOW do I want to FEEL after I reach my Dream?  ..Are there other dreams or options that can give me the same feelings?
  • HOW will I change from WHO I am now and WHO I’ll be after my Dream is reached?   Pinpointing how you will actually change after your dream will help you incorporate what really is important to you 


 

3/Will the BENEFIT of my Dream OUTWEIGH the SACRIFICES I’ll have to make?

 

I have to say that this part took the longest for me to figure out.  It wasn’t just the consistent paycheck that I sacrificed.   Leaving what I was an expert in to move towards something that was new was humbling.  In my past career, I had a great reputation in Recruiting and I was always busy, even during the slow times.  Now, as I’m building my practice, I’m definitely working outside of my comfort level.  

 

I was lucky enough to have a great experience that confirmed I was doing the right thing. Last Spring, I had an excited client who made a special trip back into the office to show me his job offer.  He emphasized that it was our work together that helped him get there.  I walked on a cloud for the rest of that week!  Totally worth the risk and the "getting out of my comfort zone!"

 

 

4/WHAT does it look like AFTER you reach your Dream?

 

We all know that it’s a GREAT feeling when you finally reach your dream!  So, what happens after you’re done?  If you are like me and some of my clients, you might feel a little sad after your dream is completed.  However, you can push past this phase by envisioning what it will be like after you succeed.  And then, start all over again.  The beauty about “Living the Dream” is there is no limit to how many dreams you can live! 

 

Got that dream job?  Now, you can work on Life/Work Balance!  Feeling Fit and Healthy?  Now, it may be a great time to connect with that special someone?  Have you been taking care of yourself and getting to know what makes you inspired?  Maybe, it’s time to figure out and really work your Life Purpose?

 

Looking ahead and continually pursuing different and bigger dreams will always keep you going forward.  Which will keep you inspired and motivated to keep making positive changes to your life and constantly, “Living Your Dream!”

 

I better have more coffee…I just thought of two more dreams I liked to follow… 


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