How to Dress Comfy Without looking like you've given up

Every few days, a friend of mine invites to meet her at a fancy social club located in the heart of downtown.  It's a posh professional lounge with beautiful city views.  I've become somewhat masterful at turning down her generous request.  The thought of having to break out my business casual attire from my past life sends shivers down my spine.

 I've become fully immersed in a world of wearing casual, comfy clothing.  The thing with casual attire is there's a thin line between looking cute & comfy or looking like you've totally given up on life.  I have to admit that I've been guilty of crossing that line.  There have been times where I've silently prayed asking that I don't run into anyone I know while running errands.  That's not the way to live.

If I'm going to be a lifelong comfy dresser, I might as well learn to do it right.   There are certain rules that one must abide by that allow us to sport casual clothing while still looking like we care about ourselves.  Let's discuss.

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Hydrogenated Fats, Bad. Hydrogenated Water, Good? You'll never want to drink plain water again

Years back, I figured out that the common beauty secret of most A list celebrities is the copious amount of water they consume on a daily basis. Since then, I've been obsessed with increasing my water intake as much as possible.

This habit has served me well over the years.  And whenever I slack on my water intake, I truly notice a difference.  I'm also very aware that not all water is created equal.   At the bottom of the totem pole is plain ol' tap water.  But if you really want to nourish your body, you can opt for mineral water or maybe throw in a few lemon slices.   Or perhaps you might want to try switching out your plastic water bottle for a copper vessel.   I thought I had discovered all the ways to make your water a bit healthier.  Turns out that I knew nothing.  Because there's a water that so healthy that it's been shown to produce documented health benefits.

This might be the ultimate health and beauty water on the market.

Master the Process of Altering Your Future It's much easier than you think.

Near the end of last year, I set a somewhat lofty profit goal for my business.  It was a number I wanted to reach since I first launch because, to me, it was a huge milestone.  About six months into the year, I realized that I was on track to actually reach this goal.

At first, I was super excited.   But after a few weeks,  a new feeling started to settle in.  With half the year ahead of me, I felt obligated to rewrite my goal.  If I kept the profit number the same, I would probably start to get comfortable.  And comfortable is never a good thing.  Although I had a good chance of reaching my numbers, I didn't want to just sit back and rely on my default future to manifest.

I did a Week Long Lemon Water Experiment And the Benefits were Amazing!

At the start of the week, I woke up with a strange, yet familiar feeling.  I could tell immediately that  I was experiencing one of my worst nightmares.  As I ran my fingers over my face, I could sense a possible breakout lying deep beneath the surface.  I get breakouts from time to time. It happens.  But this wasn't any type of breakout. It was the kind that could potentially evolve into a cystic eruption.

I knew this because I could actually feel it turning into a painful lesion even though it wasn't yet visible.  Since I experienced this many times before, I knew exactly what to do.  Before a breakout has the chance to rear its ugly head, I rely on one remedy that seems to work for me every single time.

Everyone's Obsessed with this Super Effective Body Exfoliator I've been waiting for this for so long

 I will never stop talking about ways to enhance the skin on our body.  Our goal is and will always be, to promote soft, smooth, even toned skin all over.

Which is why I'm so excited to share today's find with you.  I believe it will work wonders to help us create a flawless body.  If you're a regular reader, you probably have heard of this product before.  But today I'm gonna introduce you to a better version of it.

How to Get Your Life Together While Sitting In Front of the TV Turn your Lazy Days into Super Productive Ones

When I first bought my home, one of the major decisions I made was to not order cable TV.  I chose this path for several reasons.  First, most success gurus issued stern warnings of the productivity killing effects of watching tv.  Basically, television shows are a major distraction and, if you're an ambitious person with clear goals, you should stay as far away from them as possible.

This advice worked for me.  I spent hours on the computer focused on my future empire.  But, over time, a bunch of websites started popping up that allowed me to "watch tv" without the need for cable.  Slowly, but surely, my productivity began to slide.  I needed a way to find a balance between watching my favorite reality shows and continuing my personal growth journey.

Now that we're headed into fall viewing season, I want to be even more intentional. So I've figured out a way to enjoy the shows I love and still get things done.

The Supplement That Fights Your Acne Scars from the Inside Out

Yesterday, I happened to jump on an Instagram live session hosted by Sophia Roe.  She's full of knowledge related to natural health so I figured I'd join in to learn something new.  During her chat, Sophia said something that immediately caught my attention.

via Sophia's Instagram

First off, let me just say that the woman has amazing skin.  But according to her, it wasn't always that way.  Sophia claims to have suffered from acne and hyperpigmentation but has since found a supplement that has kept her acne scars in check.

The Clever Hack I discovered that recreates the Perfect Dewy Cheek

The other day I visited Glossier's website to repurchase a lost item and try something new.  On the one hand, I was bummed that I couldn't find my tube of balm dotcom, but on the plus side, it gave me the opportunity to try a product that I've had my eye on for quite a while.

After adding cloud paint to my cart, I was feeling really good about myself.  I was super hopeful about the potential of using a cream blush for the first time ever.   Blush has been one of my biggest challenges since forever.  It never looks good on me.  And the powdery finish is too reminiscent of the 80s for my taste.  As someone with big cheeks, putting brightly hued powder only accentuates them so I stay away. But, I still wanted to experience the look of blush....just in a modern way.

@diarrhaxo wearing Cloud Paint in Haze.

Instead of looking like I have clown cheeks, I want to replicate the look of flushed, healthy skin.  Cloud paint seemed like the answer.

Is Copper Water your next hair, skin and nail supplement?

The other day, I was perusing through Amazon in search of some cute copper mugs to enjoy one of my favorite new beverage, the Moscow mule.  Little did I know that I would come across an ancient Indian method that would help me create my own health & beauty water at home.

Prior to this, I was watching a Youtube video on how to cut flowers fresher longer.  One tip was to add a penny to the water.  If I remember correctly, adding a penny allowed her lilies to stand up in the vase longer and not fold over.  Back then, I didn't look further into why the penny worked, I just made a mental note for the next time I bought fresh lilies.

The reason why pennies help the flowers to last longer is because of copper was slowly releasing it's goodness into the water.  Copper water is so powerful that it impacts the life cycle of these precious plants.  Next, I learned that we can make our own copper drinking water.  And, that copper water directly benefits our skin and hair.

5 Beauty Items that I Now Keep In My Fridge

A couple of weeks ago, my ancient AC unit finally gave up.  The worst thing that could happen was being without AC in the middle of July.  Part of me contemplated enduring a hot summer without the modern necessity of cool air, but then I thought of how the sweltering temperatures would affect my beauty & nutritional items.

Needless to say, I gladly made the hefty investment so I could survive the summer while preserving my favorite products.  I thought I was doing my part.  But then I came to realize that some serious beauty enthusiasts have really taken their beauty regimens seriously.  Believe it or not, some even go as far as to procure mini-fridges to keep their valuable beauty stash at optimal temperatures.

I'm not gonna lie, I contemplated getting a mini beauty fridge but the lack of space prevented me from moving forward.  If I ever get my dream house and huge bathroom, I'll definitely revisit this concept.  The very least I could do is ensure that I store my current products in the right place.  Part of this weekend's agenda includes tossing out old bottles of condiments so I can make room for my most beloved beauty favorites.

Brazilian Beauty Secrets || Can Adding Vitamin A to Shampoo Boost Your Hair Growth?

The other day I picked up a bottle of vitamin D capsules at a local grocery super store.  For a couple of years, I've talked about the benefits of ensuring that we have enough vitamin D in our diet.  Because of our melanin, most of us might actually be vitamin D deficient.  For the past couple days, I've noticed a renewed sense of well-being. Not sure if it has to do with the vitamin D intake or if it's a residual effect of having just returned from a much-needed vacation.  Since incorporating B vitamin shots and, now vitamin D, I'm starting to feel like my old self again.

A few years ago, I took a bunch of vitamins every day and it really made a difference.  Since then, I've fallen off the wagon. But as I get older, I realize that my body isn't as efficient as it used to be.  Plus I'm not eating as great as I should.  It's time to take my nutrition seriously again. So I started to browse around Amazon for other vitamins that I could incorporate into my daily life.  While there, I somehow stumbled on vitamin A.  Whenever I research a product on Amazon, I always go to the reviews and do a quick search for the word "hair" or "skin."  I do this to discover products that positively impact our hair & skin.  That's how I stumbled upon hyaluronic acid.

When I did my customary search under vitamin A supplements, I uncovered a little-known hair growth secret that Brazillian women swear by.

Monday Motivation \\ How to Inspire Yourself Every Day when You First Wake Up

Over the weekend, I checked out some house/apartment tour videos on Youtube.  One video, in particular, featured a loft style apartment with a modern aesthetic and killer views.  I loved the minimalist decor and monochromatic design.   Everything about his apartment was intentional and perfect.

There was one moment in the video that caused me to pause and reflect.  As he showed us his bedroom, the points the camera out towards the amazing city view.  He then informs us that when laying down on his bed, he has a clear view of the city skyline.  This, he says, was one of his biggest life goals (to wake up every morning to amazing views).  What he said next is what inspired me to write this post.

This exclusive city view, according to the blogger is, "what motivates me to get up in the morning and to do the most."

Let's Discuss Your Plan for Flexible Passive Income

I'd like to bring up a topic that has been an interest of mine for many years.  Early on in my financial journey, I stumbled on an audio book that forever changed my viewpoint on the most effective way to earn money.  That book was called Multiple Streams of Income by Robert Allen.  In the book, Robert encouraged us to diversify our income sources.  I loved the premise of the book and contemplated someday putting his ideas into practice.

As time when on, my career began to take off and I relied solely on a paycheck.  But that wasn't a bad thing because the money came every two weeks.  But as I moved up the ladder, I noticed a flaw in this system.  One article I read even called a job a risky way to make money.  In my mind, I'm like "how can that be?"  The money is always there on payday.  What could go wrong?

But over the course of my career, I fired a countless number of people.  Most of them came to work that day not expecting their income to suddenly stop.  Sure, you can get another job, but who knows how long that'll take or if your earning will be similar to what you had before.  Basically, your livelihood is in the hands of strangers.  That is completely risky if you ask me.  One day, I was at a seminar and the speaker said something I'll never forget.  While speaking on one topic, he suddenly proclaimed to the audience "I don't work for a paycheck, I live my life and I earn money while doing so."  That's all I ever wanted.  Since then, I've wanted to live up to this mantra.

This past week, I spent some time in the wonderful country of Belize.  I rented a luxury villa and relaxed as I experienced all the amenities the island has to offer.  As I ate fresh seafood at restaurants on the beach, the only thought that constantly went through my mind is "how do I make this last forever?"

[MUST TRY] Your DIY Post Shower Hair Oil for Sleek, Shiny Moisturized Hair

I've been known to randomly poke around Amazon in search of unknown beauty products that could potentially change my life.  This morning, I stumbled on a wonderful little gem and I couldn't be any happier.

The actual product itself is manufactured by a well known Japanese beauty brand.  In fact, they are the makers of one of the most popular cult facial cleansing oils on the market.  It just so happened that they also carry a line of "after shower hair products."  These items are specifically made for application post shower.

We already know the value of adding product to damp skin post shower.  Applying an oil/lotion to wet skin enhances our skin's moisture retention levels in a wonderful way. Why not apply this same principle to our hair routine?  Thanks to the inspiration I received from DHC, I may have found a way to replicate the perfect DIY after shower hair oil recipe.

Palmer's May Have Created the Perfect Summer Glowing Skin Product

Years ago, I met a gorgeous flight attendant who let me in on the secret to her glowing skin.  During our convo, she made certain that I was aware of oil gel.  Unlike lotions, oil gels have the ability to hydrate and nourish the skin for long periods of time.  Plus, they leave a layer of shine on the skin which gives it a nice glow.

As soon as I got the chance, I purchased my first bottle of oil gel and I've been hooked ever since.  They basically save my skin in the winter.  Now that summer is here, I'm eager to integrate these gel based oils into my daily routine.  Although I like the ones I currently have, I still kept my eyes and ears open for a better version for summer.   I'm happy to report that my wish has been granted because I may have stumbled on the perfect drug store oil gel for summer.

First Impressions // Did a water softener make a difference to my hair + skin?

A few weeks ago, I allowed my mind to wander in the shower as I typically do.  Out of no where, I said in an audible voice "I need a whole house water softener."  A water softener is something I've wanted for many years.  Hard water has been the bane of my existence for as long as I can remember.  It coats my shower doors and dishes with a thin layer of mineral deposits.  But, worst of all, is how it affects my hair and skin.

Within days of me making that random comment in the shower, I received an unsolicited sales call.  The people on the other line wanted to schedule a time for me to have my water tested in exchange for a $25.00 gift card.  I happily obliged.  Soon, a slick talking salesman was at my home hoping to convince me of the benefits of having a whole house softener.  Most of the his sales pitch consisted mainly of information that I was well aware of.  But I wasn't completely sold until he gave a demonstration that changed everything.

Let's Discuss the Waist Length Hair Retention Secrets of the Women of Chad

One of the most important aspects of a successful hair journey is our ability to retain length.  Even if you aren't trying to have hip length hair, retention serves as an indicator of how solid our hair routines are.  If we're constantly loosing length, there's a problem somewhere.   Either we need to improve our products or our practices.

If you still haven't quite yet grasped the proper techniques to help you retain length, you've come to the right place.  Because today, I'm featuring a video that details the regimen of women who have truly mastered the art of length retention.

4 Ways That Summer is Ruining Your Beauty (and how to stop it).

Summer is in full swing.  I'm sure we're all enjoying the longer days and the warm sunshine.  While you're enjoying fun filled days outdoors, I want to you keep a little something in mind.  Summer, may be one of the most damaging seasons when it comes to our beauty routines.

Let me explain.  Winters may seem like a harsh season when it comes to our skin, hair & health (and it is).  But we are well aware of the issues that arise from cold weather.  The side effect of dry air is pretty obvious. So we minimize the risk by amping up our moisture routines.

Summer is a bit trickier because the dangers aren't quite as obvious.  I believe that summer has the potential to accelerate aging and other beauty related concerns.  Worse yet, we might not even be aware of what's happening.   Let's discuss the potential downside of summer and how we can avoid it.

Study Claims that Fewer Trips to the Gym Still Produces Similar Results.

I'm about 12 lbs down from my heaviest weight.  At my height, 12 lbs makes all the difference in the world.  I attribute the weight loss to a change in my eating habits.  While I appreciate being a bit slimmer, I'd prefer to have a bit more muscle tone.  I take full responsibility because I barely visit the gym.  The thought of driving to the gym 3-4 times a week for workout sessions seems so laborious. So I avoid it altogether.

All hope is not lost.  Because I've recently discovered that going to the gym 3 times a week may not be necessary to build muscle.

How I built a Six Figure Business without working with Mentor

When I decided to leave corporate America, I set an intention to link up with a mentor that would help guide me through the process.  I envisioned meeting a successful woman who ran a highly profitable business.  She would give me all the advice, motivation and inspiration necessary to carry me through every phase of my business.  I told all of my friends about how badly I wanted a mentor. I wrote it down as a goal.  At networking events, I made my intentions known.  But, in the end, I never found that mentor I was looking for.

Even without the mentor, I still was able to launch a relatively successful business.   Someone once asked me the question of how to find a mentor.  Since I was never able to find one myself, I couldn't really respond.  But after reflecting I realized that we can still gleam the valuable advice from successful people and apply it to your situation to create massive results.