Category: kindness

2018 End of Year Reflections

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2018 End of Year Reflections

I have procrastinated writing this post because I am in a bit of denial that the year is over. I constantly feel that time is going too quickly and that I can’t catch up…being a planner and someone who likes to accomplish things, it frustrates me a bit because I did not accomplish everything I wanted.

While this year was amazing, it went differently than expected. There were some amazing things that happened and there are still a lot of things that I am continuing to work on in 2019.

Early in January

I started 2018 planning to keep my corporate job for one more year. I wanted to stay there and continue growing Style & Life. The second week of January, the company told me I needed to spend significantly more time in New York and I could no longer work remote two days per week. Both were deal breakers. Time is too precious to spend being away from my family that much.

Initially, I was devastated. I had a great income with benefits and did not feel I had the energy to find something new. I wanted to maintain “status quo” so I could spend my spare time on Style & Life, not finding a new job. However, after an evening of venting and complaining, I woke up and went to work out. While I was on the treadmill, I remembered what I have heard Tony Robbins say. He asks “If life is always happening for you, then what does that mean?” It instantly changed my perspective. At that moment, I regained my power and decided to move on. The cost was too great and I would not sacrifice my core values.

I will not say it has been easy…taking a pay cut, working in a new role, but I am living consistently with what I believe is right. I am consulting for an amazing company who treats their employees well and has a growing business. And I have more time for my family and Style & Life.

So that was how 2018 started! It was surprising but I am grateful for the way everything transpired.

Style & Life

We had some Style & Life milestones for which I am so grateful. To start, my brand ambassadorship with Soveral skincare. My goal is to bring my readers products I truly believe in. I am a huge advocate for skincare and have used Soveral products for many years. I feel so honoured to work with them. We also did our first videos…there is so much to learn about creating videos and many more ideas but we started. I also had the opportunity to participate in an amazing charity event, did my first personal appearance and a collection of other amazing sponsorships. I love my Style & Life work and am happy to see it resonate with you and companies.

I did not…

However, I want more. We always will. I launched a well campaign…the effort and results have been dismal. I wanted to take better care of myself…in reality, I probably did less for myself than last year. Nor did I get consistent with my workouts or lose the weight.

For 2019, I am working on…

While I have a set of business goals that I want to achieve, I am approaching my personal goals from a different perspective. I have a clear vision of who I want to be, how I want to feel and what I want to accomplish. Instead of having this huge push of effort, I am working on being peaceful and consistent. Staying in a place of feeling grateful, healthy and happy. I want to approach making changes from the inside so that all of the changes are lasting.

I wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 1.2019
End of Year Reflections

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End of Year Reflections

It feels so cliché to say “this year flew by” but it did…more than any other! Between having a toddler, working full time and investing in Style & Life, the days, weeks and month flew by.

When I look back at this year, I am proud and determined to improving at the same time. I relaunched Style & Life at the end of 2016…my goal was to post original content consistently and I have done that. Having Style & Life as a creative outlet gives me a sense of satisfaction that I was missing and I am proud that I said I was going to do it and that I did.

That being said, there are other areas that need some attention. Like learning to manage stress effectively. Focusing on my health and physical body. Taking time to connect spiritually. I like to look back to review the accomplishments and challenges so that I can focus on where I want to go as we kick off the new year.

If I thought this year was busy, I have a feeling next year will be even busier and I am excited to see what it will bring! In addition to growing Style & Life…these are the other areas I am focusing for 2018.

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SELF CARE

I fly often and am still fascinated during the safety demonstration when they say you “should put your own mask on first before helping others”. However, I think I get it. If you don’t take care of yourself, then you can’t help anyone else. I have fallen short in this area and while I am living a beautiful life, if I am so run down and stressed out that I cannot enjoy it, then what is the point? And what example does that set for my daughter? So, as selfish as it sounds, I am putting self care (consistent workouts, nutritious meals, daily inspirational reading, weekly spa nights) at the top of my list so that I can improve my level of spiritual, emotional and physical balance.

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RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

To start. Putting down the phone. There are times when I let work emails take precedent over conversations with loved ones. I am also scheduling more frequent date nights with my husband and outings with girlfriends so that we can make memories and have quality conversation.

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GIVING BACK

If you have been following me for any length of time, you may already know that my parents founded Crisis Aid International so philanthropy is literally in my blood. The times I have felt the most fulfilled in my life is when I am consistently giving back to others…so, stay tuned, I am launching a well building campaign early next year!

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HOBBIES AND INTERESTS

Most days I work, spend time with my daughter and husband and then work more. When I am done working, I tend to watch 30-60 minutes of TV to wind down. This has been a habit I have developed the last couple of years and while I may still use TV to wind occasionally, I am going to incorporate other things I enjoy more….like practicing French and reading books.

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DREAMING BIGGER

Picasso once said “Everything you can imagine is real”. So, why not? I am going to pursue all of my hopes and dreams with passion.

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I wish you health, happiness and fulfillment in 2018.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 30.2017
One Good Thing

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One Good Thing

It has been AWHILE since I have written a kindness post. Primarily because I am working on an exciting initiative that I will be announcing in the next couple of months. In the interim, I do not want to lose sight that small kindnesses can make a huge impact.

Lately, life seems to be taking a toll…the daily grind…the juggling of roles…being a mom, wife, executive and entrepreneur sometimes leaves me feeling exhausted and uninspired. I love everything I am doing but sometimes the sum of it all is A LOT. That being said, I am acutely aware of how fortunate I am. When I go down the list, the amount of things for which I have to be grateful is endless…living in a free country, my facilities, amazing family, incredible career…the list goes on and on. I am blessed beyond my wildest dreams and I never want to lose sight of that. Keeping that in the forefront of my mind is a skill that I am working to master. Deep down, I know it, but there are days when I just don’t feel it.

I was particularly cranky one Sunday evening when flying to New York which made me annoyed with myself so I decided to try something to break the cycle. I challenged myself to think of one good thing about everyone I saw or came my way. I ended up having a blast passing out mental compliments to people …“great shoes!”, “that was so kind of you”…you get the idea. By the time, I got on the plane, I was in a fantastic mood. So, I have been doing this more recently. It has helped challenging work relationships and made me more empathetic to others that otherwise may have annoyed me. I will not lie. It is not always easy but I keep my goals small…just one thing. The great part is that I am so busy looking for small things to celebrate, it distracts me from thinking negative thoughts or getting frustrated over minor things.

It occurred to me that if we all looked for just one good good in each other, we would find more in common with each other than we may ever realize. And if the world has more love, harmony and kindness…well, I see no harm in that.

Spread the love, friends, and look for one good thing!

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

f. 19.2017
Extending Kindness at Christmas

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Extending Kindness at Christmas

We will hear Andy William’s sing “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” on the radio, in restaurants and malls through the month of December. That is certainly how I feel when I start to see Christmas lights going up and smell pine scented candles everywhere. However, for many, the holidays are a time of painful memories, fear and disappointment. Instead of only creating a list of things you want to receive this year…why not also create a list of things we want to give this holiday season?

Here are some ideas on how we can extend kindness this Christmas.

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ADOPT A FAMILY

Now that I have a child, I cannot imagine being unable to afford any Christmas gifts for her or have a nice meal…find a family through a local non-profit organization and give a family in need a holiday they will always remember.

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HELP THE HOMELESS

Opportunities abound! You do not have to look far…find somewhere that is passing out food, shelter or clothing and show those less fortunate you care about their situation.

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DO HOSPITAL ROUNDS

Can you imagine being in the hospital during the holidays? Call your local hospital and find out the best way to visit patients that do not have loved ones with them. Bring cookies, flowers or a smile to brighten their day.

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS AND VETERANS

Put political views aside and take a moment to show gratitude to those who forfeit the comforts and security of home to protect our country. These brave men and women have given more than we can imagine to keep us safe.

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PLAY SECRET SANTA

sWe all know someone who is in a challenged or less fortunate situation…why not play Secret Santa and anonymously send a grocery store gift card, meal or gift? They will forever be wondering who took the time to show they care.

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For other ideas, visit post Extending Kindness at Thanksgiving…my guess is that you will probably experience as much joy as those receiving the kindness.

Happy Holidays to all!

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 8.2016
Taking Care of Mother Earth

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Taking Care of Mother Earth

We live in a beautiful world…the ocean, mountains, desert, trees and flowers. I have always aspired to be conscious of the planet and been an advocate of recycling but I still have opportunity to improve. I want future generations to experience this world the way we have and listed a few ways we can increase our mindfulness towards taking care of Mother Earth.

RECYCLE

I am guessing most of you already recycle some things…however, are you aware of everything that can be recycled? There are more things than you realize including paper towel rolls, batteries and cell phones. Visit www.epa.gov/recycle for a comprehensive list. If you aren’t using reusable grocery bags, be sure to return the plastic bags to the grocery store so they can be recycled.

PICK UP TRASH

Whether its yours or not, show Mother Earth a little kindness and pick up trash that comes along your way and dispose of properly.

REDUCE WATER CONSUMPTION

Instead of letting your water run while you brush your teeth or preparing a meal, use it sparingly. We are fortunate to have clean water; lets not waste this precious resource.

USE YOUR LEGS

Help reduce air pollution and take a walk or ride your bicycle instead of driving…this also allows you to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise.

SAVE ENERGY

If you are not in the room, turn the light off, if you are cooking, close the refrigerator, if you are not watching it, turn off the television. Shut off your computer when you are finished using it and turn your thermostat up when you are not home. Not only does this help save energy but also it reduces your electric bill.

If each of us does just a little bit more to increase our consciousness towards Mother Earth, it will add up to a significant impact for our planet.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 18.2016
Letters to my Daughter

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Letters to my Daughter

Just as everyone says…having a child changes you and your view of the world instantly. After having Celine last December, I see everything in a new light. It is refreshing to have someone so pure, so innocent, so full of curiosity in your world because it gives you a renewed sense of hope, a fresh perspective on life and a depth of love that words cannot describe.

I am always wondering who she will be at different phases of life and what she will need. The feelings I have are so overwhelmingly good that I feel the need to get them out…and, so, I have started a tradition of writing her a letter once a month…maybe more, if I have a lot say. I tell her what she is doing, how she is developing, what has happened and I tell her how I feel about her and what I want for her life. I plan on doing this as she grows up and then having all of them put into a beautiful book as a souvenir of my love for her.

It has been so fun to have her in our life and I am constantly thinking of new traditions and ideas to build a life that integrates meaning, kindness and looks to extend love wherever possible.

What traditions can you start for your loved ones? What will touch them and create lasting memories and love? I am always looking for new ideas and would love to hear yours in the comments below.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 11.2016
Extending Kindness at Thanksgiving

Extending Kindness at Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has always a been a favorite holiday of mine. I love Christmas but sometimes feel that gift giving becomes a silly gift card exchange or time to exchange unneeded and unwanted items just for the sake of going through the motions.

Growing up, my parents always hosted Thanksgiving…it was “our” holiday and I have fond memories of family and friends coming over and spending the entire day chatting, laughing and eating. Thanksgiving is a time to come together in the spirit of gratitude with family and friends to eat a delicious meal. So simple and beautiful.

However, there are many that do not have these kinds of holidays. Many are lonely, hurting and hungry. Why not start a tradition of extending kindness to someone who wont be enjoying the holiday the way you may be?

Here are some ways to extend kindness to others at Thanksgiving.

Invite a colleague, friend or neighbor to join your Thanksgiving meal Most of us know at least one person who will not be with loved ones this holiday. Extend the invitation and welcome them into your celebration.

Visit elderly people at a nursing home. his is something that does not cost money, just your time and maybe an uncomfortable moment. Many elderly people are alone for the holidays and would welcome sincere care and concern about their well being.

Make meals for the homeless.

There are many organizations nationwide that help the homeless. We live in an area where there a number of homeless people and will be creating bags of hot meals and passing them out to individuals who live on the street

Participate in a food drive at your work, church, synagogue or local charity .

Donate to an organization of your choice.

It is in giving that we truly receive.

I wish you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving.

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 10.2016
Giving Back through Amazon Smile

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Giving Back through Amazon Smile

Unsure if everyone uses Amazon to the degree that I do…when I need household items, to send a gift, order supplies for my daughter or make purchases on Shopbop (wink wink)…often, the first place I go is Amazon.

My husband has titled me the CJO of our family…Chief Juggling Officer. I suspect many of you are also juggling family, friends, career and hobbies. Which is why Amazon is a godsend. Spending time in stores purchasing paper towels, diapers or going to the post office is not how I want to spend my free time. I want my weekends to be spent with the people I enjoy…at the park with my daughter, at lunch with friends or on a date with my husband. I try to not place more than one order a day but I have been guilty (primarily during those newborn days) of placing 3-4 orders in a day.

One program I have been participating in for a few years is Amazon Smile. Amazon Smile is a simple and automatic way to support your favorite charitable organization at no cost or effort to you. I support International Crisis Aid Inc, the non-profit organization that my parents started (www.crisisaid.org). You simply have to visit Amazon Smile and select the charity you wish to support and 0.5% of the purchase price on eligible items will be donated to your charity.

Another convenience courtesy of Amazon. Visit www.smile.amazon.com to select your charity today and add a positive benefit to your shopping habits.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 16.2016
The Butterfly Effect…Does It Apply to Kindness?

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The Butterfly Effect…Does It Apply To Kindness?

Have been enormously touched by the story of Chris Rosati. I first learned of this story from Steven Hartman of CBS News. Steve’s show “On The Road Again” has featured Chris Rosati, a man from North Carolina who has been diagnosed with ALS. ALS, also known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease,” is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Once diagnosed with the disease, Chris developed an inspiring point of view on the way he wants to spend the rest of his life. He wants to help as many people as he possibly can.

The Butterfly Effect, put simply, is the idea a very small change in initial conditions can create a significantly different outcome…Edward Lorenz coined this theory and speculated that a hurricane may have its roots in the faraway flapping of a butterfly’s wings. The second segment, shown above, shows Chris and and his thoughts on the butterfly effect and how it applies to kindness.

I hope this inspires you the way the same way it did me.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 12.2015
A Reflection on the Meaning of Kindness

A Reflection on the Meaning of Kindness

Most I know are familiar with the work of Crisis Aid International (see Africa Trip Anniversary post). Many are less familiar with the work of my mother, who runs Love and Care Youth Center in Saint Louis. Love and Care Youth Center was founded in 1983, by a French woman, Mina Paille. Mina immigrated to Saint Louis and started Love and Care Youth Center to feed and assist low income families. My mother volunteered with Mina for eighteen years and when Mina passed several years back, she asked my mother to continue her work under the umbrella of Crisis Aid International.

“The Center” as we affectionately call Love and Care, hosts a church service and food distribution every Friday afternoon. They run an after school tutoring program on Thursday evenings for children in the neighborhood. For Thanksgiving and Christmas, they feed over 200 families and provide gifts for the children. Most of the people “The Center” serves come from broken familes and have experienced abuse, struggle with addiction or have physical and mental handicaps.

My mother is my best friend and we speak every day. Rare, if ever, is the day she has been shopping and lunching with friends. Usually, it’s her account of taking a homeless friend to help file social security, going with a woman who needs teeth to the dentist or meeting with a young woman who needs marital advice. She is intimately involved with the details of the people’s lives she helps.

Fortunate to have an example like this, I am reminded to slow down and consider ways that I can extend kindness and care to others.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2015