Nov

InspoFab: Hustle or Align?

We have all heard of the saying, “Work SMARTER not HARDER.” Destroy the idea that you have to be constantly working or grinding in order to be successful. Embrace the concept that rest, recovery, and reflection are essential parts of the progress towards a successful and ultimate happy life.

Here are 7 tips to help you ALIGN instead of HUSTLE!

1.HIRE AN ASSISTANT OR INTERN.

Whether you a career women or entrepreneur having a team that consists of someone other than yourself is CRUCIAL. Some of my girlfriends tell me they can’t afford to pay an assistant. So my solution to that is hire an intern. I have had 3 companies: a production company, consulting company and a law firm. All of them had interns! I quickly learned you could go through the career office at your city’s colleges and universities and post internship opportunities in exchange for academic credit. I even throw in a written professional reference at the end of my internships. You get free labor and they get experience and academic credit to graduate! Its a win-win.

2. GET MAID SERVICE.

You’ve worked all day, you have to cook dinner, you may or may not have kids, and you still have to clean your house. Trust me, it’s not happening. Forget this “SUPERWOMAN” mentality where you have to be strong all the time and do it ALL. It is recommended that you get maid service twice a month, especially to do the deep cleaning you can not get to because quite frankly you are mentally, emotionally and physically drained.

3. STOP TRYING TO BE A JACK OF ALL TRADES.

Yes, you are smart, savvy and a quick learner. But why stress yourself out and try to teach yourself everything when you could hire someone to do it and save time in the process. For example, I am a producer but also had some writing experience authoring a book and writing a show episode. When the opportunity came to develop my film idea, I toyed with the idea of just writing the screenplay myself. But this would be months of work and the final product could have turned out horrible because of my lack experience. I realized it was better to just to hire someone where this was their craft. At the end of the day use your time, energy and creativity to do the things you love and to focus on your strengths.

4. REMEMBER THE 80/20 RULE-AS YOUR GROW INCREASE YOUR PRICES!

The 80/20 theory was first introduced by Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto, who in 1906 observed that 80% of Italy’s land was controlled by 20% of its population.

The 80/20 rule is a rule of thumb that states that 80% of outcomes can be attributed to 20% of all causes for a given event. In business, the 80/20 is often used to point out that 80% of a company’s revenue is generated by 20% of its total customers. Therefore technically 20% of your work/clients can produce 80% of your income. Unfortunately, many of us do 80% of the work, for 20% of the money.

For example, I read there was a women earning only a $1,000 month writing up to 14-17 articles a month for 7-9 clients for on average $50 an article. She was killing herself for pennies. Then one day she decided to up her prices and therefore could reduce the number of clients and increased her monthly earnings to $4,000 a month.

So its simple- instead of working with over 7 client’s night and day and making peanuts, find your 2-4 clients/projects that can pay you 80% of the revenue for 20% of the work.

Besides who would you want to hire- the $500 cosmetic surgeon or the $2500 cosmetic surgeon? The $2500 one of course because the higher price indicates that you are actually paying for something of value and more importantly it will be done right.

5. TAKE TWO DAYS OFF.

As a career women, but especially as a entrepreneur we feel guilty when we are not working because that time off is looked at like it could be used to make more money. However, money is not everything if you are not around to enjoy it once it comes! Taking time off to reset your mind, body and soul is MANDATORY.

6. STOP REINVENTING THE WHEEL

Align or partner with a mentor or established business that has experience or already has a customer base your business can benefit from.

7. STOP WORKING FOR FREE!

If there is nothing else you remember from this please understand that if you do not know your worth know one else will. So when that family member, friend or associate is expecting you to work for absolutely free not only are they not respecting you or your time you are wasting your time on them when you could be making money doing something else!

Nov

CareerFab: PR and Travel Guru Leslie Green

Say Hello to Ms. Leslie Green! Love to travel the world and get paid to do it? Want to enter the Public Relations industry? Then read on! Ms. Green does it all:) Also don’t forget to get your copy of her book “Teach Me PR 101”!

1) Why did you choose your profession?

As a multi-passionate entrepreneur, I have multiple professions! I chose public relations and the communications industry because I enjoy writing and connecting and building relationships with people. I chose the travel industry because I absolutely love to travel and when someone told me I could get paid to do that and create unforgettable memories for others I jumped at the opportunity.

2) What is the favorite part of your job?

I enjoy seeing people winning. I love being able to do that on both sides of my business. When I see someone shine because of some connection I made or because of some promotion that makes the greatness of someone else visible, that makes me feel great. I also love to see the joy beaming from someone when they return from a vacation experience that I created for them or I helped them earn money from themselves. Priceless!

3) What is the most difficult part of your job?

The difficult part of my job happens to also be what I love about my job: dealing with people. People aren’t always the easiest to work with, especially when they have unreasonable expectations about what you can do for them.

4) Who is your mentor (if any)?

I have many mentors for different areas of my life: spiritual, business, my professions, life in general. They are all unique and bring something very special to my life. My ultimate life mentor is my mom though. She is incredible and she has inspired me in so many ways.

5) Best piece of advice for someone pursuing your field?

Become great at networking! Building genuine relationships with people is vital. You never know how far important connections can get you until you make them.

6) If you have not chosen this profession would have you chosen instead?

I used to want to be a child psychologist. I majored in psychology my first year in college and quickly learned that field nor anything science related was not for me. I think I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing at this time in my life. I have a feeling that’s going to evolve over time though. At heart, I have and always will be an entrepreneur so who knows what I will create in the future.

7) Favorite designer?

I’m not really into labels or designers – I wear what I think suits me at that particular time in my life. I do have a number of Diane Von Furstenberg pieces in my closet that I absolutely adore.

8) Favorite makeup brand?

I’m not really a big makeup person either but the majority of items in my makeup bag are MAC. I’m looking to branch out and find some other options so maybe I’ll fine some recommendations here!

9) Favorite hair care?

As a naturalista, I’ve experimented with so many brands I’m not even loyal to one brand of products. I do enjoy the Aunt Jackie’s Curl Lala defining custard for my twistouts though. It makes my curls soft, light and fluffy and it smells delicious. I’m always getting compliments on how good my hair smells.

10) Favorite skin brand?

I’ve always loved Dove products in general and my favorite brand for facial products is Neutrogena.

11) If you could only choose 5 items to put in your purse everyday, what would they be?

Phone, wallet, lipgloss/lipstick, hand sanitizer and I guess my keys because I have to have those!

12) Free plug:)– Anything you would like our readers to know that you are selling or creating or philanthropic organizations you are apart of?

If you are an entrepreneur and you’d like to learn the basics of how to do your own PR, visit www.masterprbasics.com and sign up for my course Teach Me PR 101 and/or purchase the supplemental book. It will change your business and your life! Also, if the concept of getting paid on your own travel makes sense to you visit me at www.goldenlifeventures.com and click on the option for lifestyle architecture.

Education (Schools Attended)

University of Virginia (BA)

Howard University (MA)

Instagram and Twitter Social Media Handle

@iamgoldenlife (Twitter and Instagram)

@goldenlifeventures (Facebook and Instagram)

Official Website (if any)

www.goldenlifeventures.com

Oct

StyleFab: Pleats Pretty Please!

WHY WE LOVE IT

Of all the trends we’ve seen on the runways into the mainstream, it’s clear that pleats are making a dent on Fall fashion not just Spring. This article will discuss specifically pleated skirts. Whether they have knife, accordion, or superfine crystal pleats, these precisely folded skirts create a sophistication that goes beyond the pleats on your typical private school uniforms. Such detail will add the necessary femininity to your wardrobe. Plus, pleated skirts look good in any length and almost in any material.

HOW TO WEAR IT

Pleats add volume without bulk, so figure issues are minimized. Since in pleated skirts the focus is on movement, pair with loose separates and keep hair simple. Pair it with a pump for more professional look and pointy toe or open toe heel for a more evening or going out look. And yes, ironing will not be easy, so factor in dry cleaning.

Ready to try out the look? Buy our “PLEAT the 5th” skirt from our “Think Pink” Collection

Oct

StyleFab: Getting Caped Away!

WHY WE LOVE IT

One trend great for Spring or Fall and off and on the runway is the cape design. A cape, whether it’s worn as a coat or a blazer, gives a touch of elegance to any outfit you wear.It differs from a poncho because of the holes for your arms but are still perfect for layering. Capes also have been around forever and so it will give your wardrobe a timeless look. Capes are probably best worn in the Fall because they are perfect for layering without wearing a heavy or frumpy coat. They also look really good when you’re wearing a dress or something more formal.

HOW TO WEAR IT

With Jeans

2. With lots of Accessories

3. With Boots

4. With All Black

5.With a Jumpsuit

6. With A Skirt or Dress

READY TO GIVE THE CAPE LOOK A TRY?

SHOP THESE CAPE LOOKS!

SUPERWOMAN LONG CAPE JACKET

RHOH TRINA SHAW SHORT CAPE JACKET

RHOH TRINA SHAW CAPE DRESS

PINK PANTHER CAPE DRESS

Oct

CareerFab: The Glenn Twins!

Say Hello to the Glenn Twins Debra and Joyce! Models, Authors, Actresses and Accountants! Is there anything this super duo can’t do?:) Check out their interview below and don’t forget to get your copy of their book “Keeping Your Crown: The Black Woman’s Guide to Reclaiming Greatness.”

1) Why did you choose your profession? We didn’t actually choose our profession. We were constantly being approached with opportunities to model and act as children; however we were extremely introverted and uninterested. Years later we finally acquiesced. So, we feel like our involvement in entertainment was chosen for us.

2) What is the favorite part of your job? We love the opportunity to be creative and be ourselves. We like the relaxed atmosphere in the entertainment industry. There isn’t as much pressure to be conservative or perfect. We also love being able to work together.

3) What is the most difficult part of your job? We dislike the politics that often take place behind the scenes in this industry. Very talented, hard-working people are often overlooked for people who have personal relationships or side deals with the decision makers.

4) Who is your mentor (if any)? We have a few. We admire hard-working, self-made female entrepreneurs like Oprah Winfrey, Bethenny Frankel and Eva Longoria!

5) Best piece of advice for someone pursuing your field? Don’t! Lol! Unless you have a deep rooted passion for entertainment or entrepreneurship and you truly believe this is part of your life’s purpose, pursue something more practical. The ups and downs of this business are often so tumultuous. You must have a true desire to serve and a willingness to be broke and endure rejection to overcome the hard times. If you truly feel that this is your calling, then get the training, get amazing representation and keep positive and productive people around you.

6) If you have not chosen this profession would have you chosen instead? Joyce- I would have become a CPA and started a firm for financial consulting. Debra- I would have gotten my PhD and become a college or graduate school professor.

7) Favorite designer? Balmain

8) Favorite makeup brand? Our own! Mirror Image Cosmetics coming soon…

9) Favorite hair care? Garnier Fructis

10) Favorite skin brand? Natural Vitamin E

11) If you could only choose 5 items to put in your purse everyday, what would they be? Carmex, lipstick, a makeup compact, hand lotion, and a Chinese silk hand fan

12) Free plug:)– Anything you would like our readers to know that you are selling or creating? We would love for readers to head to Amazon.com and order our first published book “Keeping Your Crown: The Black Woman’s Guide to Reclaiming Greatness.”

Education (Schools Attended): Savannah State University, BBA Accounting

Certifications or Licenses?: Certified Tax Preparers

Memberships?: Beta Gamma Sigma (The International Business Honor Society)

Awards?: Honor graduates: Joyce (Suma Cum Laude) Debra (Magna Cum Laude)

Instagram and Twitter Social Media Handle:

IG: @theglenntwins @glenntwin_joyce @glenntwin_debra

Twitter: @GlennTwins

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Glenntwins/

Official Website: www.glenntwins.com

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/user/glenntwins

Oct

InspoFab: The Power of I AM.

“I AM”, the two most powerful words; for what you put after them shapes your REALITY.

Some time ago, when I was feeling in a slump I began to focus on everything wrong with my life. Not married, no kids, my businesses were struggling, the list went on and on. Sounds familiar? It’s human nature to complain. But have you noticed that it is much easier to focus on what you don’t have versus what you do have?

I so happen to be traveling during this time and in the airport gift shop came across a book entitled “The Power of I Am” by motivational speaker and pastor Joel Osteen. Now some of you may have heard of him already, but for those of you who have not he is an amazing man of God and inspires and helps strengthen the faith of millions of people through his books, seminars and church services that a telecasted worldwide.

For those of you that are not religious or not Christian, Joel Osteen is still a powerful source of inspiration that crosses all faiths and cultures. In his book, he hones in on how powerful words are and the principal of speaking what you say into existence. Understanding this principle and realizing everything that I said could come into existence whether good or bad really gave me pause. Then I thought how I could ensure that I only spoke positive things especially when mostly everything was going wrong? Pastor Osteen gives the advice that everything that comes through your mouth first starts as a thought. So the next time you open your mouth to complain pause and think about what you are saying first BEFORE you actually say it. “I’m single, I’m broke, I’m lonely, I’m depressed, I’m fat”. Sounds familiar? These are some common things that people say on a regular basis when they begin to complain about their life. If you are saying any of these things now in your life STOP immediately. If it’s too difficult for you to find something to say positive in the moment, as Pastor Osteen says “Be Positive or Be Quiet.” If not, years from now you will find yourself STILL single, broke, lonely, depressed and out of shape.

Which leads to my final piece of advice on how to speak positively. Sometimes even if in reality you don’t have that perfect relationship, have that perfect weight or perfect job, you should FAKE IT until you actually believe it. Osteen states that if you force yourself to speak positively enough eventually your mind, heart and eventually your actions and then ultimately the universe will line up and you can actually WILL these things into fruition. One of the examples in Osteen’s book is a women who was in a dead end job, just out of a relationship and feeling pretty down on herself. She decided to use her last paycheck and take a trip overseas. During her trip she noticed that during her outdoor excursions she was out of shape and could barely keep up. So the woman decided that on her next trip she wanted to be more healthier. Upon returning home she joined a gym, ran a marathon and ultimately lost more weight than she had anticipated. In a nutshell, the results of her healthier body all started with her thoughts on having positive aspirations for better health which turned into words which ultimately turned into actions. The women’s approved appearance even attracted her new boyfriend and gave her the confidence to start a new job. With ONE change of thought the women essentially changed her WHOLE life.

Now its your turn! To give you a jumpstart I have written some affirmations below that you should say every morning before starting your day.

I AM HAPPY

I AM HEALTHY

I AM WEALTHY

I AM LOVED

I AM WORTHY

I AM POSITIVE

I AM BLESSED

I AM GRATEFUL

I AM BEAUTIFUL

I AM CONFIDENT

I AM COURAGEOUS

I AM EXCITED ABOUT TODAY!

There are many more affirmations you can add to this list. But this is a great start! Just remember every day you speak your DREAMS (instead of your doubts), is a day closer they become a REALITY. Click here to purchase “The Power of I Am” by Joel Osteen on sale for $8 (retail price $26.00)!

XOXO:)

J. Carter

Oct

StyleFab: Watch This Leather Skirt Transform Your Wardrobe

WHY WE LOVE IT

A leather skirt is always down to solve a fashion dilemma. Its inherent trend feature is its style versatility: from grunge, to glam, to girly, to preppy, to smart, to sporty luxe or rock glam, you can’t lose rocking this item. Whether you style it with a solid tee in the Summer or slip it on over tights in the Fall, there are plenty of ways to rock this must-have piece. Leather Skirts have been having their moment for a while now, with bloggers and fashionistats wearing them like crazy in summer, but the trend is now spreading into the colder seasons big time. And the best part about it is that ALL leather skirts are in: skater, pencil, mini, A-line, in all colors. Today we will discuss the must have black leather skirt.

HOW TO WEAR IT

Try the black leather skirt with these casual looks:

If however we want to go more on the glam sophisticated side, it’s all in the bling (statement necklaces & rings) and textures. Mix fabrics: leather, lace, sheer, silk, cashmere, beads, sequins. Keep one thing in mind though, when going all the way, you need to keep at least one thing toned down: face, hair or shoes.

The biggest DON’T when it comes to leather skirts is those super short, painted-on latex styles, that’ll have us looking cheap & desperate. Also avoid pairing them with a same-texture tiny leather jacket and thigh high heeled black leather boots. We don’t want you to come across like a prostitute lol. It’s about BALANCE and making you look effortless, girly and confident.

Ready to give this style trend a try? We are animal cruelty free so we have put together two faux leather looks for you! Shop these look now on the Legally Fab store!