Why Happiness at Work (and in Life) Feels Hard—And How to Change That

Have you ever woken up dreading the workday ahead? Or felt like no matter how hard you try, happiness always seems just out of reach? You’re not alone.

We start the year full of big goals, convinced this will be the year we finally find balance, confidence, and fulfillment. But as the months go by, stress, self-doubt, and routine creep in—and before we know it, we’re back to just going through the motions.

But here’s the truth: Happiness isn’t something you chase. It’s something you create.

The Secret to Feeling Happier — Starting Now

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to reset and start feeling better about your work, your life, and yourself… this is it.

In our upcoming workshop, Get Pumped Now! Finding Happiness with Grace and Ease©, we’ll walk you through our Signature 6-Step Method to help you:

✅ Build confidence in your decisions and direction
✅ Find balance between work, life, and personal goals
✅ Reduce stress and reprogram negative thought patterns
✅ Set goals that actually stick
✅ Attract happiness and success with simple mindset shifts
✅ Feel inspired, motivated, and supported in your work and daily life

You Deserve a Life (and Career) You Love

Happiness doesn’t have to be hard. By making small shifts in your mindset, you can wake up excited for the day ahead, love what you do, and feel more at ease in every aspect of your life.

If this resonates with you, we’d love for you to join us. Spots are limited! Send us your info via our Contact Page, and we’ll send you all the details for this very special workshop.

We need this, now more than ever! Let’s make happiness happen—together.

New Year, New You: Make 2025 the Year You Thrive

The start of a new year is the perfect time to refocus, realign, and reignite your passion for what truly matters. Whether you’re dreaming of personal growth, business success, or building a team that thrives, this is your year to shine.

Here’s how you can kick off 2025 with confidence and clarity:

Discover your definition of success
Success doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all formula. Take a moment to reflect on what matters most to you—both personally and professionally. Your unique vision is the foundation for a year of intentional growth.

Level up without the overwhelm Growth doesn’t have to mean hustle and burnout. With simple, actionable strategies, you can make meaningful changes that bring you closer to the person you’re meant to be. Small steps lead to big transformations!

Tap into your hidden motivations
What really drives you? Understanding your “why” is the key to unlocking sustained momentum—for yourself and your team. When you connect with your purpose, you’ll find that energy and focus flow naturally.

Empower your team to excel
Your team’s success is your success. Equip them with tools that maximize their potential and foster collaboration. Real growth happens when everyone feels empowered and aligned.

Ignite passion with purpose
When your team feels connected to their strengths and values, their work becomes more than just a job—it becomes a mission. Tailor roles to their unique talents and watch engagement and productivity soar.

Your brighter future starts today
There’s no better time than now to make bold moves and embrace your potential. Whether you’re growing your business, evolving your leadership, or building a high-performing team, the future you’ve been dreaming of is within reach.

Let’s make 2025 the year you thrive. 🎉

Retail Insights: How To Stay Ahead Of Market Trends

In the fast-paced world of retail, staying ahead of market trends is essential for sustaining growth and maintaining a competitive edge. As an expert retail creative, strategic, and business consultant, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of foresight and innovation. Understanding and anticipating market trends is not just about keeping up; it’s about leading the charge and setting new standards. Here’s how retailers can stay ahead of the curve and identify emerging trends before they become mainstream.

Embrace Data-Driven Insights

The first step in staying ahead of market trends is leveraging data. In today’s digital age, retailers have access to a wealth of information about consumer behavior, preferences, and buying patterns. Utilizing analytics tools and techniques, such as machine learning and AI, can help identify subtle shifts and emerging trends. By analyzing sales data, social media activity, and online search trends, retailers can gain valuable insights into what customers want now and what they might desire in the future.

For example, tracking online reviews and customer feedback can reveal emerging preferences for specific product features or styles. Social media listening tools can uncover trending topics and hashtags that indicate shifts in consumer interests. (Fancy, I know)! By staying attuned to these data points, retailers can make informed decisions about product development, marketing strategies, and inventory management.

Develop a Culture of Innovation Innovation is the cornerstone of staying ahead in the retail industry. Cultivating a culture that encourages creativity, experimentation, and calculated risk-taking is crucial. This means creating an environment where employees feel empowered to share ideas and explore new concepts. Regular brainstorming sessions, innovation workshops, and cross-functional collaboration can spark fresh thinking and lead to breakthrough innovations. (And that’s all free)!

Additionally, partnering with startups, tech companies, and academic institutions can bring new perspectives and cutting-edge technologies to your business. These collaborations can result in innovative products, services, and processes that set your brand apart from competitors. By fostering a culture of innovation, retailers can continuously evolve and adapt to changing market conditions.

Keep an Eye on Global Influences

Market trends often originate from global influences, including cultural shifts, technological advancements, and economic changes. Staying informed about global developments can provide early indicators of emerging trends. For instance, the rise of sustainability as a major consumer concern was influenced by global environmental movements and policy changes.

Retailers should monitor international fashion shows, technology expos, and industry conferences to gain insights into upcoming trends. Engaging with global thought leaders and participating in international networks can also provide valuable perspectives on future trends. By keeping a finger on the pulse of global influences, retailers can anticipate and adapt to trends before they become mainstream in their local markets. (No more excuses needed for Tik-Tok distractions)!

Engage with Your Customers

Direct engagement with customers is one of the most effective ways to stay ahead of trends. Building strong relationships with your customer base allows you to gather real-time feedback and understand their evolving needs and preferences. This can be achieved through various channels, including social media interactions, customer surveys, focus groups, and loyalty programs.

Encouraging customers to share their opinions and experiences not only provides valuable insights but also fosters a sense of community and loyalty. Retailers can use this feedback to refine their product offerings, improve customer service, and develop marketing campaigns that resonate with their target audience. By actively engaging with customers, retailers can stay responsive and agile in a rapidly changing market.

Invest in Trend Forecasting

Professional trend forecasting services can offer specialized insights into future market trends. These services analyze a wide range of data sources, including consumer behavior, cultural movements, and technological advancements, to predict upcoming trends. Retailers can subscribe to trend reports, attend forecasting seminars, and consult with trend experts to stay informed about potential shifts in the market. (Speaking of Market, there are great seminars on these topics at the best trade shows)!

In addition to external forecasting services, retailers can establish internal trend monitoring teams dedicated to researching and analyzing trends. (Yesss, put your people to work)! These teams can work closely with marketing, product development, and merchandising departments to ensure that the entire organization is aligned with upcoming trends. Investing in trend forecasting ensures that retailers are proactive rather than reactive, positioning themselves as industry leaders.

Staying ahead of market trends requires a multifaceted approach that combines data-driven insights, a culture of innovation, global awareness, customer engagement, and professional forecasting. I’ve seen how these strategies can propel businesses to new heights, allowing them to anticipate and shape the future of the industry. By embracing these practices, retailers can not only stay ahead of the curve but also set new standards and lead the market with confidence and foresight.

Navigating Market Trends in the Face of Climate Change: A Deep Dive into Sustainable Practices in the Home Furnishings Industry

I recently experienced firsthand the effects of climate change while traveling to Atlanta for the Casual Furniture Market. Having multiple air travel delays and cancellations due to extreme heat warnings and storms over a major swath of the country made it clear that the impact of global warming is not a distant threat but a very present reality. The extreme heat and travel disruptions I experienced are a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and how we do business.

It reminded me of when I was in design school, how we were encouraged to learn more  about LEEDS certifications and jobs that would be available in that area and how important green and sustainable building and design was.

As the home furnishings and interior design industry moves forward, embracing sustainable practices is not just a trend but pure necessity. By staying ahead of market trends and committing to sustainability, retailers and designers can play a pivotal role in mitigating the impact of global warming.

This approach will not only meet the demands of eco-conscious consumers but also ensure a resilient and thriving business in the years to come.

Here’s what I’m seeing as the most current as well as the upcoming market trends, with a focus on sustainability and climate-conscious design:

 Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Products

The demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products is more than a trend; it’s a full-on movement. Consumers are increasingly seeking furnishings made from reclaimed, recycled, and renewable materials. Retailers and designers are prioritizing sourcing sustainable materials, such as FSC-certified wood, organic textiles, and recycled metals, to meet this demand. Brands like IKEA are leading the way by committing to using only renewable and recycled materials by 2030, setting a benchmark for the industry.

 Smart Home Integration

Smart home products are not only about convenience but also about energy efficiency. Integrating smart thermostats, lighting systems, and energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce a household’s carbon footprint. By promoting these technologies, retailers and designers can help customers live more sustainably while also benefiting from the growing smart home market.

 Multi-Functional Furniture

Urbanization and shrinking living spaces are driving the need for multi-functional furniture. Items like sleepers, extendable tables and modular shelving units are practical solutions that maximize space. These designs often use fewer materials and reduce waste, aligning with sustainable practices.

 Biophilic Design

Biophilic design emphasizes the integration of natural elements into interiors, promoting well-being and connection to nature. This trend includes the use of natural materials, indoor plants, and nature-inspired color palettes. By incorporating biophilic principles, retailers and designers can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial to mental health and sustainability.

 Personalization and Customization

Customization allows consumers to create unique, personalized spaces, reducing the likelihood of replacement and waste. Offering customizable furniture options—from fabric choices to modular designs - enables retailers and designers to meet individual needs while promoting sustainable consumption.

  Upcoming Trends for 2025:

 Circular Economy and Upcycling

The circular economy model focuses on extending the lifecycle of products through recycling, refurbishing, and reusing. Upcycling - transforming old furniture into new creations - will gain traction, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Retailers can offer repair and refurbishing services to promote a circular economy and reduce waste.

 Augmented Reality (AR) Shopping Experiences

AR technology will enhance the shopping experience by allowing consumers to visualize furniture in their homes before purchasing it. This reduces the likelihood of returns, minimizing waste and the carbon footprint associated with shipping. Retailers or designers investing in AR will not only improve customer satisfaction but also contribute to more sustainable shopping practices.

 Wellness-Focused Interiors

Wellness-focused interiors prioritize designs that promote physical and mental well-being. This includes ergonomic furniture, air-purifying plants, and soundproofing elements. By offering products that enhance wellness, retailers and designers can cater to a growing market while also promoting sustainable living environments.

 Bold Colors and Patterns

While minimalist designs have dominated, there’s a shift towards bold colors and patterns. This trend encourages consumers to invest in statement pieces rather than constantly updating their decor, promoting sustainability through longevity.

 Inclusive and Adaptive Design

Inclusive design caters to people of all abilities, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all. Adaptive furniture, which can be adjusted for different needs, will become more popular, promoting inclusivity and sustainability by reducing the need for multiple pieces of furniture.

  The Role of the Home Furnishings Industry in Addressing Climate Change

 Sustainable Manufacturing Practices

More manufacturers must adopt sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy, minimizing waste, and reducing water consumption. Brands can also engage in carbon offset programs to mitigate their environmental impact.

 Recycling and Reusing Materials

Retailers should promote products made from recycled and upcycled materials. Encouraging customers to recycle and reuse furniture through buy-back programs and refurbishing services can extend product lifecycles and reduce waste.

 Conscious Design

Designers must prioritize sustainability from the outset, creating timeless pieces that are durable and adaptable. This approach reduces the need for frequent replacements and minimizes waste.

 Educating Consumers

Retailers and designers should feel a responsibility to educate consumers about sustainable living. This includes providing information on the environmental impact of products, offering tips for sustainable home practices, and promoting eco-friendly products.

 Advocacy and Collaboration

The home furnishings industry must advocate for sustainable policies and collaborate with stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, and governments, to drive systemic change. Our collective action is essential to address the global challenge of climate change.

 My travel experience, while incredibly frustrating, has magnified my awareness of the urgent need for sustainable practices from all of us, but especially within my industry, the home furnishings and interior design industry. We must adapt to and invest in these fast-changing conditions, not only to mitigate the environmental impact but also to meet the evolving expectations of eco-conscious consumers. It’s a win for all of us!

Starting A New Business? Make Sure Your Core Values Are Part Of The Building Blocks

We’re in an age where what we stand for is just as important as what we do. When you’re embarking on the journey of starting a new business, there are a number of elements to consider—funding, product development, merchandise mix, marketing strategies, staffing and more.

But of these foundational aspects, one crucial factor often overlooked by new entrepreneurs is the establishment of their core values. Core values are not just a philosophical add-on; they are fundamental building blocks that can profoundly influence the trajectory and success of your organization.

Values Matter.

Core values serve as the guiding principles that shape the ethos of your business. They encapsulate what your company stands for, its beliefs, and its overarching mission. And you as the founder, they represent who you are, your character and the driving force behind what your business will become.

In addition to who you are and what you do, core values will be the how you do it. Here are a few more compelling reasons why every new business owner should prioritize defining and upholding their core values:

Core values provide a clear compass for decision-making. When faced with choices or challenges, aligning your decisions with your established values ensures consistency and integrity in how you steer your business.

From day one, core values set the foundation and tone for your company culture. They influence how employees interact, collaborate, and engage with their work. Hiring individuals who resonate with these values promotes a cohesive and positive work environment.

A values-driven culture enhances employee morale, motivation, and retention. When employees feel a sense of alignment with the company's values, they are more engaged and committed to their roles.

Core values contribute significantly to building a strong brand identity. They communicate to customers what your business stands for and its commitment to certain principles. This transparency builds trust and credibility, which are essential for long-term success.

Establishing core values creates an ethical framework for your business practices. It ensures that your company operates with integrity and responsibility, remember, these are the building blocks of your business that will drive your success for many years to come.

Weathering Tough Times: Strengthening Your Retail Team's Bond

Having recently returned from the spring edition of High Point Furniture Market, it became apparent that we're witnessing a tale of two cities: some businesses are facing significant struggles while others are thriving with increased activity. And if you've weathered the challenges of the Covid shutdown and the aftermath of shoppers gone wild, the current business landscape might feel as if time is moving at a snail’s pace! The dreaded downturn…

As someone who's been in the home furnishings industry and interior design world for (far too long), I know firsthand how challenging economic downturns can be. But during these tough times, it's all about pulling our teams together and reigniting our commitment to what makes each of us special as a company.

Here are some strategies I've found that really work to strengthen our company culture and team spirit, even when business is slow:

Keeping Communication Open and Honest: More one-on-one.

Ditch the corporate-speak and just talk openly with each other. In team meetings, I make it a point to share what's going on with the business—both the good and the bad. I encourage everyone to speak up and share their thoughts and ideas. I also hold  more 1:1 touch bases and chats, meetings where we can be more casual and linger over our ideas and create more community within the team.

Embrace Core Values.

You know those values we always talk about? Integrity, top-notch customer service, and teamwork? They're not just words in a handbook—they should guide everything we do. Let's really live by them, especially when times are tough. Tough times are back to basic times – a time to strengthen your foundation. Having core values and standards, should be non-negotiable.

Invest in Your Team.

Even during a downturn, I believe in investing in people. That means offering training sessions to help sharpen our skills and keep us ahead of the game. It shows that we're serious about our team's growth and development. Product knowledge, sales techniques, customer objections, etc.

Build Each Other Up.

We're all in this together. Let's create an environment where we support each other, share ideas, and collaborate on finding creative solutions. Maybe even plan some fun activities outside of work to strengthen our bonds.

Celebrate Every Win.

No achievement is too small to celebrate! Whether it's landing a big sale, getting a great online review, or just hitting a personal milestone, let's cheer each other on. Recognizing each other's efforts keeps us motivated and feeling valued.

Stay Flexible and Innovative.

Innovation often thrives in challenging times. Let's challenge ourselves to think outside the box and find new ways to meet our customers' needs. Who knows? Our best ideas might come from these tough times, some of the most successful businesses have sprung from them.

Lead with Positivity

As a manager, I believe in leading by example. I'm here to support my team and keep our spirits high. Stay positive and show that you're a team that can handle anything.

Navigating a downturn takes a village to come out stronger on the other side. Tough times don't last forever, but the relationships and culture we build will. Here's to weathering the storm and emerging even more resilient than before!

Transforming Leadership: Evolve Your Leadership Style

In 2024’s fast-paced business environment, rigid leadership styles can hinder organizational agility and limit the potential for innovation. Leaders, be willing to reassess your approach and adapt to emerging trends and challenges. Whether it's embracing remote work, fostering diversity and inclusion, or promoting employee well-being, effective leadership requires a willingness to evolve.

In the dynamic landscape of business, leadership isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. As markets evolve, technologies advance, and workforce demographics shift, leaders must also adapt their styles to effectively navigate changes.

I’ll say it again, with today's rapidly evolving business landscape, effective leadership requires a willingness to adapt and evolve. By recognizing the need for leadership style changes and taking proactive steps to implement them, you can cultivate a culture of growth, innovation, and success within your organization. Embrace change, empower your team, and lead with purpose to drive positive transformation and achieve your business goals.

Becoming a Better Leader: Don't Be The Problem

If you are a leader struggling to inspire your team or find yourself wondering if you're inadvertently causing frustration or demoralization among your employees, then it’s time to reflect on your leadership style and the impact it has on those you lead. Instead of being a source of workplace stress, strive to become the kind of leader who fosters a productive and positive environment. Keep reading below to see how you can start to transform your leadership approach and empower your team to thrive.

 A good leader, whether a CEO, manager, or supervisor, plays a pivotal role in shaping the work culture and the well-being of their team members. Rather than instilling fear or doubt, effective leadership cultivates a sense of value, respect, and belonging among employees. It's about recognizing the strengths of each individual and providing encouragement and support to help them reach their full potential.

 As a leader, you must be mindful of how your actions and words affect your team members. Avoid behaviors that make employees feel undervalued or marginalized. Instead, strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels appreciated and empowered to contribute their best work.

 One of the hallmarks of a toxic leader is bullying behavior. Whether it's belittling employees, playing favorites, or failing to acknowledge their efforts, such actions erode trust and confidence within the team. As a leader, it's essential to have a non-bullying policy and always address these issues head-on to demonstrate a commitment to fairness and equality.

 Furthermore, effective leadership involves fostering open communication and constructive feedback. Encourage your team members to voice their concerns and ideas without fear of reprisal. By listening actively and responding empathetically, you can build trust and strengthen your relationships with your employees.

 In addition to addressing negative behaviors, it's crucial to recognize and celebrate the achievements of your team. A good leader acknowledges the contributions of all their employees and expresses gratitude for their hard work. By creating a culture of appreciation and recognition, you can boost morale and motivation within your team.

 Navigating challenging work environments requires resilience and self-awareness. As a leader, you must be willing to reflect on your own behavior and make necessary adjustments to improve your leadership style. If necessary, seek feedback from your team members and be receptive to constructive criticism. By continuously striving to grow and evolve as a leader, you can create a more positive and fulfilling work experience for yourself and your employees.

  Being a better leader means prioritizing the well-being and success of your team. By cultivating that culture of respect, inclusion, and appreciation, you can create a work environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Remember, leadership is not about exerting power or control, but rather inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential. Embrace the opportunity to become the kind of leader your team deserves, and you'll reap the rewards of a more engaged, motivated, and high-performing workforce.

When It's All You Can Do To Keep Smiling

Struggling at work with a bad boss, a toxic work culture, not fitting in, no support, underpaid? There's loads more we could add to the list.

Why is work so miserable for so many of us?

Recently we took a look at small business startups and found that many of these first time founders are not fully implementing their core values, a true mission and have no vision or big picture plan in place.

When you miss these steps you also miss the opportunity to find employees with like-minded values, those who have the drive to fully embrace your plan.

This can create division right out of the gate. Protect your business, protect your dream. Start right and know where you're going.

Another Day of Gratitude

Last year I took a class that taught me to incorporate a “Gratitude Day” into my year…I loved the idea so much and shared it with my friends, family and co-workers. I decided that my gratitude day would be on my birthday…so this year, as I took another trip around the sun, I had a wonderful time celebrating and reflecting on the past year.

I spent 2023 learning more about myself, added meditation to my routine and watched a million webinars on business and marketing. I learned how I can be more productive at work and how to get outside of my comfort zone…I’m feeling the fear and will do it anyway LOL!

So, since we are in this season of giving and the world so desperately wants more love, peace and kindness, I am offering that you too might create this yearly ritual for yourself. It’s kind of like having your own holiday whenever you choose to do it. And whether or not you share your day with others, enjoy!

Achieving Organizational Health Through Corporate Culture

As a CEO, Leader or Business Owner you know the word toxic when used in the framework of your teams is a red flag…this is a warning sign that changes need to happen, and if the word toxic is used, you better make those changes fast!

Your primary responsibility is to oversee the execution of building a company culture to align with your mission, vision and core values. This is a priority. If you haven’t already developed this, please start to give some thought to it now. This is the foundation that you’ll build your culture on going forward, and how you and your people will know what’s expected, and that you’re succeeding.

Our people are our best asset and if they are unhappy we’ll lose our best asset. So providing a work environment that creates space for them to thrive is protecting your assets.

Pay them well, offer great benefits, help them grow and learn by offering development opportunities. And most importantly make sure they are the right person for the position, and once hired, don’t overwhelm them with additional scope of work that they were not hired to do! Come on…go hire additional help.

  Talent acquisition, performance management, training and leadership development are all going to be easier for you once you have a firm commitment to the type of people you’ll be asking to join your organization (based on your values, etc.).

If you didn’t know it, you are the primary steward of your culture; (or you should be) ensuring that every touchpoint for your employees is consistent with your values and brand. Further, you are responsible for ensuring each member of the team understands and represents the best of who they are through the curation of communications, policies, activities, and events.

Biz-Life focuses on People, Culture, and Organizational Health. We work with our clients to own all of the initiatives having to do with your company’s people and culture.

 For us at Biz/Life it’s more than just work – we want people to be well – period. That means that they also need the tools for personal growth and development as well as career development. We base our teachings and training on Whole Life disciplines so that they can be used at home, within their friendships and families and especially in their communities. We just really like happy people! Give us a call and let’s build something great!

Gratitude Day

I recently took a business class that started day one with mindset shifts. It taught us that to make lasting change we had to be mindful of the people we are around, what we see and hear, our experiences and our level of gratitude.

The trainers asked us to commit to creating a Gratitude Day where we let people know what they mean to us and why we are thankful for them. Gratitude also relieves stress, which is why you’ll hear people suggest creating a gratitude journal and to make entries at night. When you have happy and sincere, good and grateful thoughts before sleep, your body has certain chemical reactions that are healing and opens you up…sort of setting things in motion, magnetizing you to allow good things to come to you.

Gratitude and forgiveness are two things that we don’t often think of in the context of our daily conversation…but as we learn more about the brain and our hearts, we find that these practices are crucial in leading healthy and happy lives. Lives where we are free to grow, to reach our goals, to accomplish our dreams…

Gratefulness, forgiveness, and meditation are becoming more and more common in daily conversation due to all the wonderful benefits that they produce, so be sure to incorporate these practices into your life so that they become habit.

Later on, we learned about the effects of these practices and quantum physics…but, that’s a story for another day!

Stacking the Deck

If you’re looking for a way to succeed that might give you an “unfair advantage” you might say that you’re looking to stack the deck. In the card game of life – we all want every advantage we can get.

There are some of us that are willing to play full out and we go out of our way to build a life that we desire…but sometimes we have bumps in the road that slow us down.

Our proven process of uncovering your current emotional state and why your there is incredible – it’s like a cheat code for improving your life. Now. Flatten the bumps! The results are tremendous, this is so impactful it almost seems unfair! That’s why we’re calling it “Stacking the Deck!”

You will start to see what patterns have led you to where you are and learn how to move forward by “giving” that which you are seeking the most.

This is the coolest process we’ve seen and we’re so excited to share this with you. In one hour, you’ll see what speed bumps you’re dealing with and have action steps to take to create an open road…we’re helping you stack the deck…helping you find what your “unfair advantage” is. This is such an optimal way to open your eyes, to understanding why you are where you’re at right now…

Metaphors aside, this may seem too good to be true…uncovering your angst in one hour!?! We swear by it! I have personally gone through this process and have never had such lightbulb moments. It will take some thought, some honesty by looking within and it will definitely bring up the past, but…

This process gives you a way to recognize how the past may be your biggest speed bump…holding you back…certainly not news…however there are certain things you can do now to use this to your advantage. Give us an hour and we’ll show you how to play your cards right!!

Let’s talk - Check out our course listings and use our contact page to request more information today…

New Workshop Teaser!

I am so excited to announce the launch of our new workshop: Get Pumped Now! Change Your Mind Change Your World, focusing on creating a Happiness Mindset!

I’ve always been a glass half full kinda gal and now more than ever it’s crucial to have a positive mindset so you can create the life of your dreams…because doing so really is possible and being fulfilled is critical to our health and well-being. We’re looking out for you! With a few practiced shifts, you can find the joy you’ve been looking for. You’ll be able to grow everyday with our 6-Step Happiness System and see changes start to happen almost immediately when you practice it and build new habits.

Get Pumped Now! Is perfect for you if you:

•   If you’re tired of playing it safe

• Have had enough of “trying to figure it out” on your own

• Are ready to leave the “facts and realities” that weigh you down and find joy instead

• Know that your happiness in life is connected to your own mental, spiritual and physical health 

• Want an easy to follow step-by-step system for real results

•   Want to know quick and simple ways to change your mood and outcomes in life

•   Are ready to live a joyful, positive and fulfilled life

•   Are ready to feel happy each and every day

Check out our workshop page and sign up now for more happiness!

Planning Your Retail Business Strategy For 2022

2020 and 2021 have provided us with the craziest roller coaster ride ever. Now it’s time to look at the lessons we’ve learned, take our to-do lists and create a strategy for 2022 to scale our businesses and plan out the “how”.

You’ll want to offer your customer an omnichannel, personalized shopping experience and a turn time for quickest possible delivery. Post pandemic materials shortages and customer shopping habits will require becoming innovative with your merchandise offering, how you handle the “customer journey” and reputation management.

You’ll need to be agile, flexible and prepared for any unexpected situations that arise in your company, the industry, or the world.

Hiring for these needs will be especially important as the requirement for more technically capable and confident associates are needed to help build a stable company that is organized, fluid and able to pivot quickly.

Having the right people, the right attitude and the right technologies will ensure that you are able to continue to grow while satisfying the current and changing needs of your customer.

The new-normal post pandemic shopping habits may be permanently ingrained in the consumer psyche. As we now know, research is showing that the events of 2020 put us at least one decade ahead of where most small retail businesses were and needed to be. (And many mid to large).

If you have been on the right path with these technologies, now it’s time to fast-track your efforts and timelines with your omnichannel capabilities. Doing this will keep you relevant, which will keep you more fiscally sound and set you up for ongoing/additional growth.

Understand that now more than ever the website represents the first interaction that up to 65% of your customers may have before coming to the store…this is your new front door. What you publish must look amazing, have current information and accurate messaging and merchandising.

It’s also important that as you grow in your e-commerce ability, you can use the store itself as a marketing tool. Offer new services, compliment what might be sold online and ensure that a visit to the store has real value to the customer. Think innovation – what do you have that can create additional revenue for you?

Building relationships online will be just as important as in-store. Connecting to the consumer and developing your brand and customer loyalty are critical and should be a 24/7/365 project.

If you’ve been lucky enough to see business growth in 2021 due to enormous consumer demand…ride the wave! Don’t let up on your marketing. Momentum is so important, keep advertising and make sure that you are using social media to tell your story.

Being able to recruit and hire new talent at the level you are seeking will also require great benefits that are competitive with other companies. Taking steps to increase and enrich your benefits package is also a reflection on the way your company is seen through the eyes of your employees and how you value them.

New initiatives may also enhance the culture of the company, based on the idea that your employees are your most valued asset. And speaking of culture…a great work environment and employees who feel valued builds a great company culture. Positive, productive and engaged employees are the outcome.

Training across all functions should be an ongoing goal, especially as you pivot and create new positions or revise older job roles. Career growth is another “benefit” for employees, it makes them better at their job, makes them feel valued and helps companies become stronger.

Remember that through it all we do it for the customer. We provide experiences in our stores or online, we market to their needs and in a way, we provide for them. Customer Service is a foundational building block. While you take risks in other areas of your business, don’t forget that your customer is who you’re there for!

How To Start Using A To-Do List

We love the idea of “having it all”, but where do you start when you have so much to juggle!? At BizLife Training we believe in starting with the basics…no matter where you are in your life or career. Below you’ll find a quick and easy way to gauge the importance of the tasks on your To-Do list. Keeping track of these will allow you to quickly recognize what’s distracting you as well as where you have the most potential to grow:

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DEVELOPING A NEW MORNING ROUTINE:

TASK: POTENTIAL: PRIORITY LEVEL: STRESS LEVEL: TOTAL:

• MEDITATE 10 10 3 23

• HYDRATE

• WORKOUT

• STRETCH

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POTENTIAL: On a scale of 1-10 note what potential each task can offer you or what improvement can be made in this area. 1=minimal and 10=huge payoff.

PRIORITY LEVEL: On a scale of 1-10 note what priority level each task has and the value of completing these tasks. 1=minimal and 10=huge payoff.

STRESS LEVEL: On a scale of 1-10 note the level of ease or difficulty of each task (or how stressed out each task makes you). 1=no brainer and 10=totally freaks you out.

Calculate your totals and try this approach in all areas of your life…personal, spiritual, romantic, health, professional and any other focus area you have. Notice the higher the number the more important it will be to you and a great jumping off point.

Notice in our example what a huge pay-off meditating can have for us…and adding a daily meditation practice has little stress to going about it…but notice the next example on our work list below. Here you see that something particularly important, also with a high priority is super stressful. Having an organized work life can lead to less stress because your “basics” will get done and you’ll be more prepared for these types of tasks.

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DEVELOPING A WORK CHECKLIST: (This can be a general list or built with detailed subsets)

TASK: POTENTIAL: PRIORITY LEVEL: STRESS LEVEL: TOTAL:

• PERFORMANCE REVIEWS 10 10 10 30

•  LEADERSHIP

• SPECIAL PROJECTS

• DATA & ANALYSIS

• BUSINESS PROCESS REVIEWS

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No matter how experienced you are we recommend having a list. If you can’t decide where to start or how to get a handle on it, start with the junk drawer. That’s what we call the mental clutter that makes us feel overwhelmed when we try to move forward.

Write down everything you feel that needs to get done (don’t filter or hold back, just write), and start setting priority levels. As you see what spills out onto the page, you’ll see the least important tasks might be able to be completed in multiples…check, check, check! Done and won.

Now that you’ve accomplished checking off several to-do items, tackle a high priority item. Not only will you accomplish something important, you’ll feel really great about yourself and those newly found endorphins will motivate you to move onto another task! (hey, exercising your mind is a thing, and exercise creates endorphins)!

We often avoid the pain of our to-do list because of how it makes us feel about ourselves and use the excuse of lack of time. Sometimes we put things off due to fear of the unknown, or we simply don’t know how to do something. Stop procrastinating, this is easier than you think it will be.…and procrastination will just make you feel worse! Trust us, there is nothing like the pure joy of literally checking off boxes on your to do list! And enjoying those newfound endorphins!

P.S. When you truly get stuck, ask for help. Please, ask for help!!

Why Giving Creates Endorphins

It seems like everything we do has chemical reactions. Generosity and kindness not only have an impact on the people receiving from you, but one might say you are the one receiving the greatest gift. Kindness changes the brain, has impacts on our heart and immune system, and may even be an antidote to depression.

When you give to others there is a release of oxytocin, which has the effect of boosting your mood and counteracts the effects of cortisol - the stress hormone. And like anything good we want more…and we become addicted to the oxytocin, so if you keep repeating, your generosity will get you high!

On Easter Sunday my first waking thought was to give…as you’ll see below in my FB posts. And my follow up post…and for a moment I forgot why I was feeling so lighthearted…and then I remembered that crazy chemical cocktail!

And that’s why it’s so important to not only give, but to make sure you receive goodness. Put good and positive food into your mind and body. Because when you fill yourself up with good, you find ways to pay it forward. Take this time of quarantine to find ways to be wonderful!

“It's been on my heart to offer free business and relationship coaching...and when I post these offerings I literally get so excited because I am giving! Do you guys get excited when you give or are able to serve others?? Please DM me or go to my biz page @thislifecoaching let's talk...let's plan and create what you can be on the other side of this!”

“Hey FB family, Happy Easter! I hope that you all enjoy your day. 
You may know that I'm a certified health coach and I specialize in Life, Leadership and Wellness. What does that mean? Well, over the years I've seen that people are often unable to move ahead or get "stuck" because of either a current or past traumatic circumstance, stress, unhealthy lifestyles or simply not enough resources...I provide strategies to tackle the different areas in their life to help develop a great mindset, increased wellness, and a balance in their personal and professional lives.
I woke up this morning and my first thought was to share what I know with whoever needs some help, support or guidance while we are "safe at home".
If you've been feeling like you need a hand I'm offering my coaching for FREE now through May 15th. (No strings)! Just DM me and I look forward to "meeting up" with you!”

The Path Of Least Resistance

Are you following the path of least resistance? You'll know it when you feel good or bad. The choices you make and the way you feel are so intertwined. When you feel good you are on the right path. When you feel bad you are slugging it out...

Life should be easier than we make it out to be...Be lighthearted and fun...Think good thoughts...We are what we eat, what we think and do and say...

If you think negative thoughts....it leads to negative talk and action...and reaction. How's that working out for you?! Life can be easy and fun...Put a smile on your face and just be happy.

Can it really be that easy? Try it out and let me know how your day went!