10 Ways to Be a Good Neighbor

10 Ways to Be a Good Neighbor

Why bother making friends with your neighbor? After a busy day, time behind closed doors is a luxury and reaching out to neighbors may not seem worth the effort. But, creating goodwill with your neighbors can pay off in big ways.

Historically, a sense of community was a staple throughout most of America. The onset of the urban lifestyle, social media “relationships,” the breaking apart of the family unit and the need to stay busy has robbed us of the “real-time” connections we once had.

Truly connecting with neighbors creates a feeling of harmony, security and support. There is tremendous value in simply knowing that someone is nearby who cares and is willing to help if needed. Equally as important as a sense of community, being good neighbors benefits everyone when problems arise.Continue reading

Who Goes First?

Who Goes First?

We all desire to live in a world that is safe and allows us to experience positive relationships at home, at work, and in our community. We want to shop, eat, work and travel without fear. While we all desire this ideal, how do we achieve it?

Too often we diminish others based on their gender, race, political orientation, religion, intelligence, and socioeconomic standing. Technology has provided a vehicle for us to communicate with those we may never see face-to-face. Anonymity has created an environment where harsh, mean-spirited, divisive comments are made cultivating fear, mistrust, and prejudice.

When did we forget to look at others as fellow human beings and instead allowed the thinking of us and them to prevail? Once we see ourselves as better than others, we give ourselves license to treat them in any manner we see fit.Continue reading

When Does Comfort Become Inappropriate?

When Does Comfort Become Inappropriate?

If others are distracted by your clothing or the lack thereof, your professional presence takes a negative hit. ~Deborah King

We live in an increasingly casual society — casual in our dress, behavior, and communication. Additionally, as Americans, we believe that our personal comfort trumps the comfort of everyone else. After all, I have a right to wear what I wear, do what I do, and say what I say. While I may have the right, should I?Continue reading

Practicing Savoir-faire in Life’s Most Memorable Moments

Practicing Savoir-faire in Life’s Most Memorable Moments

Few things can erode confidence like being invited to an event where you are clueless about what to wear or how to navigate a particular social setting. In fact, most people tend to turn down an invitation to an event that is outside of their comfort zone. Their assumption is that everyone else possesses the required savoir-faire. Nothing could be further from the truth. These skills, like any skill, are only learned through training and practice.

What is savoir-faire? Continue reading

The Power of Real Beauty

The Power of Real Beauty

Every woman wants to look and feel beautiful. This desire is not evil or being conceited; it is part of how you are made.  If that is true, and it is, why do so many women struggle with insecurities about their appearance?

How would you respond if someone you just met told you that you are beautiful? Would you believe them, or would you discount their comment? Maybe you would smile and say, ‘Thank you,’ but in your heart doubt what they have said.

Doubt is often rooted in comparison. If I looked like ________, then I would be beautiful. Every time you compare your reflection in the mirror to the constant flood of perfectly altered photos in the media, and on social media, insecurities take hold. No one can measure up to that – not even the models.Continue reading