Do you hear yourself saying, “I’m saving this for a special occasion?” Or, do you say, “I’ll take those out for guests someday?”

I’m here to tell you that your “special occasion” is here. It’s TODAY. And, the guest of honor has arrived. It’s YOU. Take those diamond earrings out of the safe. Take Grandma’s good china out of storage. Take your Tuxedo or your father’s cufflinks out of that dusty box, just because.

Take yourself out of second position and step into the occasion – every day.

Our lives are filled with beautiful things we receive or buy, yet we never give them life. They stay carefully wrapped in the cupboard. They get stuck in our paradigms of how things “should” be. They become clutter, instead of the pleasure or treasure they truly are.

It’s time to get out of the “rules and conventions” of how to live, how to wear things, how to be.It’s time to live in and radiate your joy, your gifts, your success.

As we look ahead to the second half of this year, look ahead with a vision of yourself surrounded by the people and things you love, old and new. Give them an appropriately esteemed, active, daily place in your life. Give them the opportunity to be a reflection of you, your life, your loves. Make them a celebration of your life’s story.

It’s time to see yourself as the shining, brilliant star that you are. Celebrate yourself. You are the occasion.

And, if you’re in the southern California area or would like to be, please join me on August 11-12, 2012 for my Radiate Your Success 2-Day Image Expansion Workshop (women only this time, gents.) Immerse yourself in the elements of style and emerge as the best of you, with your unique, expanded personal style, turning your potential into your reality, for all the world to see. Click here for more information.

You know I love to hear from you!

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

Now, envision the first five items hanging on the right hand side. How many of them are your faves? How many of those five do you reach for over and over again when you need to dress to impress? All five? Two? Zero?

Let’s move on to the next five garments. How many of those did you purchase on your own because you love them? Feel great in them? Know they flatter you? Reach for them time after time? All five? Two? Zero?

Open your eyes. Thank you for playing.

Now, what would happen if EVERY outfit in your closet were a MAGIC OUTFIT? Magic Outfits are the ones you reach for time-after-time. The ones that work for you – overtime! They’re the ones that get you compliments and unsolicited positive pubic opinion every time! I know you may have one or two in there somewhere right now. But, would it be easier for you to begin each day feeling fresh and fabulous if anything you reached for from your closet made you look great, feel great and functioned for you throughout your day? That would be a giant “YES, Lauren!”

Of course, I’m going insist that you start by clearing out all those ghouls, goblins, devils and demons that don’t serve you. Gift them, donate them or burn them – as you wish. Now, look at those remaining garments that you love, those that love you right back. What is it about them that works so well? Is it the color? The cut? The fabric? The feel?

It’s time to shop your closet like a private boutique. Re-mix your fave pieces into combos that you’ve never seen before. You’ll be thrilled with the results.

Here is my 4-STEP FORMULA for creating more magic in your life – magic outfits that is!

1. Does it FUNCTION for you in your life and lifestyle? Does it go where you go from sun-up to lights-out?

2. Does it FIT you and only you? I know you bought it off-the-rack. But, has it been tailored to your body, making it uniquely yours?

3. Does it FLATTER you? Do you hear nice things all day long that sound like, “You look amazing!” “Have you lost weight?” “Do you have a new love in your life?”

4. Does it FEEL great? Do you feel great in it? Does it feel good to the touch? Does it make you feel fabulous?

If you answer “YES!” to all the above, it’s a keeper! Now, mix it, match it and march yourself out for all the world to see – the very best version of you!

You know I love to hear from you!

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

A quick review of my calendar would lead you to think that I’m a very busy person. Of the nine days I spent between Washington, DC and Chicago five were business, two were family and one was travel. That included the 14-hour day with my client who flew in from Bermuda for an a.m. photo shoot followed by ten hours of wardrobe building (shopping.) Now, that’s Action!

Sending her home with a complete wardrobe from black tie to the boardroom and the beach – dresses, slacks, jeans, tops, shoes, bags, jewelry, intimates – we covered it all, knowing that fab photos would follow to complete the process. Yes, it was a long day. And, we were actively inspired from sun-up to lights-out. Those are special days, indeed.

Back west, I returned to an intimate Ladies Night Out at a local boutique. I talked about the opportunities for each of us to find our signature style and perfect fit in this collection that I love for its ease, elegance and whimsy. Check it out here.

And, what would make the month complete? An in-home jewelry show of glitz, glam and fab fashion pieces at incredibly affordable prices. There truly was something for everyone. I know you’ll want to see for yourself, so check it out here.

Over the last year, I’ve had the honor and privilege of participating in a monthly by-invitation dinner attended by people who take action — names you would know — actors, directors, producers, authors, photographers, painters, motivational speakers, business professionals and others who are constantly striving to achieve their next level, whatever that is for them. Compared to them, I often feel like I’m living my life in slow motion. They inspire me to stay focused and stay the course. The one lesson that stands out for me above all else is Take Action. That’s what successful people do. Each of them continues to take action on a daily basis to move them closer to their current and ever-changing goals. Check out Next Level Live. There may be a nugget of information or a new relationship waiting to take you to your next level.

When I say Go! Go! Go! And, Go some more, I’m not kidding. Take action and let me know what wonderful new levels of life, love and purpose are showing up for you. You know I love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

Early this month I had my first experience with a lovely South African woman named Elmarie. I found her while traveling down one of my internet worm holes. You know, click here, click here, click there and there she was. Elmarie provides Electrotherapy for body sculpting and fitness. I was having one of those “Sure, I’ll try anything once” moments. So, I did. While I can’t say it was “fun,” I can say it was new, interesting and made a difference. My muscles were stronger, my skin was tighter and I felt good. I did five treatments total. The electrode treatments even had an unexpected yet welcome positive impact on my neck and back pain. You can check her out here.

What fabulous discovery have you made while traveling down an internet worm hole? Do share.

Next, I baked pupcakes. Yes, I did. No, that is not a typ-o. I baked gluten-free cupcakes that look like dogs — pupcakes! Use whatever recipe you prefer as the cupcake. It’s the decorating and the extreme cuteness that will cause you to break out in full-form laughter interrupting your conversations on completely unrelated topics for days to come. I promise. Take a look for yourself.

Have you ever created something that provided full-on fun and laugh-out-loud memories for days or years to come? Please send those along, We’d love to know.

And, as if the electrotherapy and pupcakes were not enough to fill me up for the entire month, here you go…I drove the electric Tesla roadster from ZERO to 104 in seven SECONDS!!! Yup. I DID! And, I loved it! I won’t tell you where (highway patrol reads this blog, too.) I will tell you that even I was surprised to see I had no moment of panic or need to take my foot off the pedal. It was SUPER COOL! Check out the amazing company that is building electric filling stations for these cars across the country and, I might add, is doing it brilliantly. They’ve got great vision and super leadership. Check them out here.

It’s been a rockin’ March so far. I hope it’s been all kinds of wonderful for you , too.

What’s new in your world? You know I love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

When I think of love, I think of the many amazing relationships in my life today – incredible friends, beyond incredible family. And, I think of those who have come before to help me become the person I am today. I’m so grateful to every single one. You know who you are.

I remember standing on a wooden stool in my grandfather’s pharmacy, barely tall enough to reach the cash register, as he showed me how to make change for a customer purchase. By the time I was seven, he paid me “one of each” — one penny, one nickel, one dime and one quarter — $.41 for a day’s work. In the years to come, I learned what it meant to be an independent business owner as I watched my grandfather manage employee issues, interview, hire, fire, care for customer needs, provide special services and always go above and beyond.

I counted inventory, arranged and rearranged items on the shelves, wrapped gifts (my personal fave) and filled in the candy stand. “These are skills you will use forever, no matter what you choose to do,” he would tell me. He was right. Our close relationship and everything I learned from watching and doing provided a foundation for my future in business.

My grandfather is one example of a Propeller in my life. Your propellers are those people whose ideas, encouragement and example moved you in some significant way toward the achievement of your dreams and, ultimately, your personal best. Propellers are a lot like your “Magic Outfits.” They serve you. They make you strong. They inspire and support you. When you’re with them, you know everything is possible. With them by your side     in-person or in-spirit, your very best qualities come shining through.

Perhaps, this is the perfect time to re-frame the meaning of Valentine’s Day. Just perhaps, now is the perfect time to celebrate the love and gratitude you have deep inside for those special people who have propelled you to your very best. Fall in love with them and yourself, today!

Who propelled you to where you are today? Who propels you today into your future?

You know I love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

As I fill in the appointments, trips, people, places and occasions I see ahead in January alone, I feel myself getting very excited for this new year. The little voice in my head is saying, “Yes! Yes! Let’s get to it, already!” I like that.

At-a-glance, I can see new clients, returning clients, prospective clients, speaking engagements, tele-summits, educational immersions, requests for future event participation, travel, friends and family time, a three year old birthday and a weekend of dog-sitting. And, it’s only the fourth day of this year.

Would all that overwhelm you? Not me. I’m energized and curious to see what’s around the bend. I’m not wishing it to come or pass any sooner than it will. I know beyond a doubt that this year is different. It feels different. I feel different. That’s good. I like it already.

I wish you a year filled with wonder and excitement. I wish you new discoveries and delights every day. I wish you time for yourself, for loved ones, for creating, sharing and growing. I wish that when you look back to today at this same time next year, you love what you see, who you see and the journey you took to get there.

Let me know how it’s going for you. You know I always love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

It might seem that my move from NYC to sunny southern California would have been enough (see my September post). But, oh, no! That was just the first step in the process. And, I admit, I am enjoying this process. (That’s a huge lesson right there!)

While I am usually found behind the scenes making things happen, not in front of the camera, this time will be different. The last year has presented massive change in many ways and it’s time to show the world who I am now.

Today, when most people will meet you only on the web or in print, it’s critical to present yourself optimally and currently at all times. Unfortunately, the local photo drive-thru or the portrait from your son’s wedding will just not cut it.

Whether you’re an independent professional, work for a corporate entity or are ecstatically retired or unemployable, your photo may appear in articles, press releases, books, websites, promotions or on your Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn account profiles, to name a few.  It has the power to be shared across the globe in a matter of seconds. Do you really want to spend the rest of your professional or personal life explaining why that photo is not a good representation of you and/or your expertise? Or, worse, do you want to chance losing business or other opportunities because your photo presented you poorly?

Here are a few quick tips I share with clients prior to photo shoots, if only because these images will be presented for public scrutiny from now until forever. Remember, the internet never forgets.

• Always look like yourself in a photo. The comment you want to hear is “Wow, you look even better in person,” not, “Gee, I didn’t recognize you from your photo.”

•  The background should never be more interesting than you are. You are the star and there is no acceptable competition in sight.

•  Women and men should use at least a neutralizing face powder or a minimal amount of make up to get a truly natural look. An easy application up front can save hours of retouching fees. A professional application may be a worthwhile investment.

•  Your eyes are the MOST important part of any photo. Be sure they are visible, clear, expressive and alive. Don’t hesitate to use a little Visine before the shoot, if last night was a long one.

•  Your clothes, hair and accessories are the supporting cast. Colors are great and can be used effectively to show you to your very best advantage. Keep your best colors close to your face. Plan for three different looks during the course of a shoot.

•  Keep your hair away from your face. Minor adjustments can be made electronically. However, entire style changes after the fact will not work. A professional styling may be something to consider.

•  Do your homework. Do not assume that the photographer you are meeting for the first time knows you best. Find photo looks and styles you like. Bring them with you to give the photographer an idea of your desired outcome. Then, be prepared to listen to a professional opinion.

•  Pixels are free. Before shooting, snap a few test shots to determine the best background, lighting and your best angle. We each have a “best side.” Know yours before you get started.

•  If your company has strict guidelines for photos that will appear in a pre-formatted document or presentation, be sure to bring them to the photographer, as well. Cropping the top of your head out is much easier than ‘Photoshop-ing’ it back in.

•  While great head shots are truly classic looks that can last many years, you should update them every four to five years or whenever you go through a major personal change.

•  A successful photo session will yield three or four great options. Select two and have them retouched for immediate use. Keep the others on hold until you need them. You may find an occasion requiring more than one look. You shouldn’t have to run back for a full shoot, if you have backups already prepared.

•  Head shots are about trying to capture your personality, your expression and your feeling through your eyes. Great head shot photographers know how to keep you natural and when to take the shot. Don’t count on friends and family unless you’re ready for a do-over very soon.

Ultimately, your photo is a crucial part of your personal brand. Take your best shot every time and leave your lasting image for all to see with confidence, pride and pleasure.

Would you like to share your experience or lessons learned with other readers? Feel free to reply back to this post. You know, I always love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

As I opened my suitcase, a copy of an article I wrote The Sky’s No Limit – Packing Your Way to the Top slipped out of the pocket. I started to read it and reminded myself of the simple steps to truly travel with savvy, ease and grace for two days or two weeks in a well-planned carry-on. I thought you might enjoy it, too. So, here it is. Feel free to take what works for you and leave the rest. Enjoy!

The average executive travels from 20 to 120 days per year. So, how does a top performer maintain a polished-performance as easily in the air as on the ground? Let’s find out.

1.    Pack Light. The ability to move quickly through the airport to taxis, hotels and meetings will save you time, energy and unnecessary added stress.

2.    Power Up and Away. It may not be your first choice, but it’s your best choice…wear your power outfit in flight. Hang the jacket to minimize wrinkles and worry. You never know who you may meet and want to impress in-flight. Looking your best let’s you rest easy all the way.

3.    Mix-n-Match.  You’ll want three shirt options to go with each bottom. For the men, a white, a blue and a striped dress shirt with one or two coordinating ties will do the trick. Add in one blazer (solid), a knit top and a dark wash pair of jeans and you’re good to go anywhere. Women add one jacket and a trouser, skirt or dark wash pair of jeans to coordinate with your power outfit. A wrap, a scarf, easy-to-pack jewelry and a small clutch-size handbag will strategically take you from daytime to evening at a moment’s notice. For two to three day trips, one pair of shoes with a matching belt should complete the looks. For longer trips, consider a second pair of shoes (with a matching belt) for greatest mix-n-match-ability.

4.    Travel-Size, Please.  Keeping toiletries light and small saves space and weight. Refill your kit each time you return home. It will make packing for the next trip quick and easy as well.

5.    Wrinkles Away.  Hang everything as soon as you reach the hotel. A quick spray with Proctor & Gamble’s Fabreeze or Very Incredible Products’ Wrinkle Free (each available in 3oz. travel size) will quickly freshen items and eliminate travel-ness.

6.    The Right Luggage.  Light weight luggage with exterior pockets will enable easy access to laptops, tablets, boarding passes, cell phones and in-flight work files or reading materials.

A well-prepared, packed and polished traveler doesn’t care if the business takes place on the ground or in the air. He or she knows that the perfect ‘pack-age’ will send all the right messages about you above and beyond.

If you have questions or comments, you know I always love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

The funniest part of all is that I moved with very few things. I left everything stored in NYC not knowing where I would land or what exactly I would need. I’ve used empty packing boxes to fashion a temporary dresser, a coffee table and an entry table. I’ve borrowed a chair, a small table and some kitchen items from friends’ garages. I’m starting each day in a closet filled with approximately one tenth of my personal wardrobe — and to borrow from Porgy’s rendition of Summertime — the livin’ is easy.

I’ve lived all my adult life in relatively small spaces. I’ve lived in and out of suitcases and on and off of airplanes for years. Yet, I was SHOCKED to acknowledge that I had amassed a lifetime of “things” after 19 years in the same NYC apartment. It happens. Life happens.

One thing I know for sure – how we do one thing is how we do everything. If my home is cluttered, my office is cluttered, my brain is cluttered, my life is cluttered and my future is dim.

My self image begins inside of me with a clear, bright view of everything inside and out. When my “self” is clear, my home is clear, my office is clear, my brain is clear, my life is clear and my future is clear and bright.

Through the process of purging, moving, lightening my load, I’ve (re)discovered a genuine lightness of being deep inside myself. There’s suddenly more meaning for me in the phrase I’ve often used regarding the value of owning fewer quality garments and belongings in general — more isn’t better, it’s just more. In this case, less is more – more meaning, more clarity, more open space for the sunshine to fill.

What about you? Have you left enough space in your head, your heart, your day-to-day being for the sunshine to fill you up? Would it brighten your image of your self to unload some of the “things” that no longer serve you? If you could start in your closet and purge some of those demons that clutter your world each day, would that help?

If this would be a help to you, I’d be happy to share my Who’s Living in Your Closet – Shop Your Closet and Take Back Your Life – Activity Guide. Simply respond to this post and I’ll send you the link.

I always love to hear from you.

Until next time, be nice to your self,

Lauren

It seemed my head and my heart had finally found something to agree upon. And, for the first time I was consciously aware that the time had come for the next massive change in my life. I returned to NYC, purged, sold, gifted, packed, stored, closed up shop and never felt more peaceful, clear and content.

I traded pigeon poop for palm trees. I opened myself to a new kind of paradise. I recognized the time for the heavy leather bound volume of my life’s story to close, allowing a lighter, brighter lace and gossamer version to open.

And now, we’ll see. Who knows? One thing is for sure – the images I see and the lifestyle I know are changing. I am gifting myself with a fresh start, a new day to be the very best version of me in every way. I look forward to sharing the journey with you. Life is always richer when we share it.

So, what about you? What’s new for you? What in your life has changed recently? What in your life is ready for a massive change? Are you ready to make it happen? What holds you back? And, what propels you forward? I’d love to hear from you.

Until then, be nice to your self!

Lauren