Are You Dating A Narcissist? 7 Red Flags Not to Miss

Hi lovelies,

With more and more people turning to dating apps and websites to meet people, we see a relatable pattern. You see someone’s photo. You’re attracted. You read their profile or brief description of who they claim to be. You reach out. You exchange emails. You text. Maybe you’ll speak briefly and then, you meet. You’re hitting it off. Things seem great. However, it seems almost too good to be true. Is it?

According to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, narcissists are everywhere and in varying degrees. She explains that the current “swipe right” dating culture only feeds their agenda, it’s important to understand who they are and how to spot them.

What is narcissism?
Many mental health specialists agree that narcissism is basically an individual who has an excessive interest or admiration of a false self they created to cope with early hurts as children. “Narcissists are disconnected from their true selves and are constantly working to appear better than others. They have an idealized self-image and are in love with that image which hides their true wounded self,” says Hafeez.

Dr. Hafeez shares some “red flag” characteristics of narcissists along with tips and insights that can spare many people the heartache and mental anguish that comes with dating a narcissist.

1. Narcissists are off the charts charming. They are incredibly upbeat and bombard you with compliments. Immediately you are captivated by them and their focus on you. They have quick wit, can read people and know what to say to make them feel good. “Narcissists are great at building rapport quickly; however, they are doing so to serve themselves first and foremost. In other words, they feed off the attention, admiration and validation of others so they charm with an agenda,” cautions Dr. Hafeez.

2. In their mind, it's really all about them. 
The interesting thing about the narcissist is that they make it seem as if they are interested in you however they will always turn the conversation and back to them. “These are not team players. They look to their partner to be the source of their happiness and much of that happiness comes from getting approval or even sympathy,” explains Dr. Hafeez. “Early on in their childhoods the narcissist didn’t get the nurturing they needed to feel secure. They were neglected or made to feel as if they were bad, so they spend their time and energy showing how great they are,” she adds.

3. Rules don’t apply to the entitled narcissist.
They’re most likely to have a handicap tag hanging from the rearview mirror of their Porsche. When asked about the handicapped tag they'll launch into a descriptive, detailed 20-minute story about how they injured their knee, entitling them to the handicapped tag. They want to gain your sympathy. Other rule breaking behaviors, disobeying traffic laws, parking illegally in front of places leaving you waiting as they quickly "run in," cutting lines, and even stealing. “They truly believe the world revolves around them and expect others to cater to their needs. This is due to needs being unmet earlier in life,” says Dr. Hafeez.

4. They disrespect boundaries. Be mindful of your boundaries! Narcissists will do things like invade your physical space, borrow or take belongings or even money without returning or repayment. They break promises without remorse and may even blame the victim. “Protecting your boundaries is incredibly important when dealing with a narcissist. When over stepping is permitted, it leads to codependence and a lost sense of self,” warns Dr. Hafeez.

5. They look great on the surface.
Their desire to impress others may lead them to a lot of time and money on their physical appearance. They are all about status and achievement. They’ll brag about their education, their possessions, who they know, their accomplishments and typically, it’s exaggerated. “This again stems from the desire of approval. They care what others think of them so much that they use people and situations to fuel the false self they created,” explains Dr. Hafeez.

6. They’ll disappear like a ghost and you’ll feel discarded.
Narcissists will put you on a pedestal as they complement and charm you. You will feel incredibly special, caught up on their intent gaze upon you. However, once they see you’re just as interested in your own well-being, that you’re protective of your boundaries, that you have other interests and put them in their place; they swiftly move on. When they see you won’t allow manipulation, they disappear and will be incredibly cold. They may even give the silent treatment and blame you. 

7. Their past relationships are all drama.
They will make it seem like their exes were all crazy, will share horror stories and make you feel as if you are the best thing they found. They paint themselves as the victim and may add that their ex still wants them. “Pay very close attention to how the person speaks about their past relationships,” advises Dr. Haffeez. “Narcissists typically won’t keep answers brief, positive and forward moving when it comes to past relationships,” she adds.

About the Doctor:
Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens. 

Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr.Oz.

Connect with her via twitter @comprehendMind or www.comprehendthemind.com 

*Note that this is a guest post. The copy and content is not mine. 

Be a Flawless Beauty with Advanced Mineral Makeup

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Hi lovelies,

I had a dream come true this year when I got to partner with Lionsgate on their new movie, the Power Rangers. Based on our partnership I got to walk the coveted red carpet during its L.A. premiere this past week. 

Since I wanted to look my best for this special occasion, I trusted my skin to Advanced Mineral Makeup. Created by the multi-talented Annie Mayo, who is a TV and Film makeup artist, Advanced Mineral Makeup made my skin glow and look smooth and flawless in a natural way. 

Additionally, Advanced Mineral Makeup is an award-winning makeup collection having just won the Professional Choice Award for best liquid mineral foundation 2017 Day Spa Magazine. 

What I love most about Advanced Mineral Makeup is that it's a non-toxic mineral makeup free of talc, paraben, fragrance, and dyes. It has natural ingredients and 100% pigment that lasts all day and color corrects my skin so I'm always camera-ready, with additional protection from UVB and UVA rays physical sunblock built-in.

Get your Advanced Mineral Makeup here, and look flawless. 

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About Annie

Originally a native of Brooklyn New York, Annie moved to Arizona in the late 70’s and entered into the field of beauty and cosmetics. As a former salon owner and aesthetician, she spent many years honing her skills in all aspects of hair, skin, and makeup. Eventually she made the progression to Television, film and print add makeup artist.

Some of her work in the field of makeup includes over 25 feature films, countless print-ads, the Miss Universe Pageant, television network news stations and major sporting events such as the Super Bowl and the World Series. She also hosted a morning T.V. segment on Fox News called “The Makeup Doctor.”

In between her accomplishments in the field of makeup artistry she became a very successful sales representative selling makeup and skin care products to Plastic Surgeons, Medical Spas, dermatologist, Resorts and Estheticians.

Annie asserts, “I always believed in the products I sold over the years or I would not have represented them; however, I always felt there was room for improvement in women’s makeup.” I wanted to find the perfect marriage between conventional makeup colors/ingredients and minerals that were good for your skin free of any chemical and preservatives, in essence a mineral makeup the was “Skin Loving” I came up with the idea to create Advanced Mineral Makeup and never looked back!

Advanced Mineral Makeup is by no means a 'Your Name' brand of cosmetics line all colors have been touched with my color expertise and created to be very user friendly to find the right color for your skin. The first three years were devoted to testing and marketing the Advanced Mineral Makeup line of natural mineral makeup and cosmetics.The rest is history Advanced Mineral Makeup has been welcomed into the community as a top brand of minerals we have won the Day Spa Readers Choice award along with the 2016 Dermascope Esthetiticain Choice Award .

I look forward to bringing you the highest quality cutting edge paraben and preservative free all natural mineral makeup available today, all with new and exciting products to follow in the future.

* Excerpt from: http://www.advancedmineralmakeup.com/about-us

3 Benefits of Using Cleansing Conditioners

Hi lovelies,

Keeping hair healthy is a cornerstone of maintaining the vitality that makes a person look beautiful. Achieving healthy hair, however, is a challenge that requires continued effort and using the right hair products. Utilizing a good conditioner, such as WEN by Chaz, can help to keep hair healthy, moisturized, and looking its best.

1. Repairs Damaged Hair
Hair can become damaged naturally or as a consequence of a cosmetic routine. Hair straightening is a common source of damaged hair because the heat of a flat iron can lead to split ends. Moreover, flat irons can also evaporate moisture from hair, and this can cause hair to look frayed and unhealthy. Conditioner can repair damaged hair by replenishing the moisture that gives hair a healthy look. Hair that has become damaged can generally be repaired with only a few applications of conditioner.

2. Minimal Foam
When people use conditioner for the first time, they are often surprised by how it has little or no foam. Although the lack of foam may appear strange, the reality is that eliminating foam makes conditioner healthier since, thus, it does not contain sulfates. Ordinarily, sulfates are the agents that cause soap to create foam, and, unfortunately, sulfates are not natural and generally unhealthy for hair. Sulfates can also cause damage to the scalp and even cause breakouts on a person's face. The elimination of foam, therefore, is one of the primary benefits of using a conditioner instead of an ordinary shampoo.

3. Works Well with Hair Dye
Hair dye is a problem for people seeking to keep their hair healthy because dyes can cause severe hair damage. Since conditioner can help to replenish the nutrients needed to keep hair healthy, conditioner users will see their hair looking healthy again faster than individuals who use ordinary shampoo. Moreover, conditioner is less harsh, so it is less likely to cause hair dyes to fade over time. Keeping hair dyes intact also means that conditioner users will not have to dye their hair as often, and this can also lead to healthier hair in the long run. In general, people who use hair dye should always wash their hair with conditioner to keep their hair as healthy as possible.

WEN Hair Care
WEN by Chaz is a leading product in women's hair care that can help to keep hair healthy in a wide variety of situations. People who use WEN by Chaz enjoy the benefits of a premium conditioner that is designed to repair damaged hair and keep it looking healthy. WEN by Chaz is perfect for people who like to wash their hair every day because it replenishes the hair oils that ordinary shampoo removes. Although eliminating oils is important for healthy hair, this can make hair appear worse when moisture is not replaced. WEN by Chaz replaces hair oil with a healthy agent designed to make hair look its best. 

Visit https://www.facebook.com/WENhaircare/ for more information. 

3 Ways Brands Fail at Consumer Engagement & How to Correct It

Hi lovelies,

If you know me, my blog, and my social media channels, you know that I never go negative. It's not my thing and from my perspective, it's a huge waste of energy when you could be saying something positive and encouraging.

But recently, I had two very not-so-pleasant experiences with two different brands, and their responses where vastly different. Despite having a negative experience with Brand #1, I left feeling like they listened to me and responded in a swift and respectful way. Thus, creating a life-long customer, and more importantly, a life-long brand champion. I'll tweet, text, and talk to my friends about how amazing Brand #1 is due to their ability to engage with their consumers in a meaningful, transparent, and authentic way.

However, Brand #2, was extremely sloppy in their response. Perhaps not maliciously, but it still showed their lack of knowledge of how to effectively engage with consumers from a place of service and integrity. Brand #2 held an Instagram contest in which whoever posted a pic that received the most “likes” using a specific hashtag and their brand handle would win a prize.

Sounds pretty simple right? Wrong.

One would think that it would be safe to assume that the “likes” would have to be real “likes” not fake “likes” that someone bought. The Instagram contest failed to provide any clear language on when the contest would conclude, but again, one would think it was logical to assume it would end at midnight on the day before the winner would be announced, which is the standard practice in contests and giveaways.

Alas, I casually entered the contest and then realized it was basically just me and one other woman who were contenders for the prize. The moment my photo surpassed hers in real “likes” her photo went up by 2,000 “likes” within the hour. It was extremely obvious that she was buying “likes” in order to out bid me in the contest.

Even though she was blatantly cheating, and it was irrefutable as I documented each instance, rather than expose her to the brand for buying “likes” I chose to make sure to have more “likes” at midnight and to reach out to the brand directly both via email and Instagram to confirm as I didn't think it was ethical to lose to a cheater but I didn't want to call her out either. I know that blogging and social media can be some people's livelihood and I would never want to jeopardize another person's source of income by outing them as a fraud.

Nonetheless, after a few hours, Brand #2 claimed that the other woman was the winner as she continued to buy more “likes” for her pic. At that point, I reached out to the brand directly, again, and told them exactly what happened. Their response, via Instagram DM, not even a proper email, was basically, “Oh well. Better luck next time.”

Brand #2 never confirmed a cut-off time for the contest even though midnight is usually the industry standard and I asked them multiple times. Brand #2 also seemed indifferent to the fact that their contest was clearly compromised by a cheater.

So this got me thinking, was I wrong to assume that a brand would care about running a clean contest? Was I wrong to have not spoken up sooner? If the brand didn't care about the integrity of their own contest, should I? After much thought and conferring with my other influencer friends, my answer was yes.

Not to get political, and regardless of which side of the political spectrum you reside, if brands have learned anything from the current political climate of today's world, it's that integrity matters. Transparency matters. Standards matter. The way in which you respond to your consumers matters. A single hashtag, #DeleteUber, thwarted Uber's CEO political aspirations from joining Trump's Advisory Council, and severely jeopardized the brand's reputation and bottom-line. Obviously that's a more extreme example, but you get my point.

To be honest, if the woman who won wasn't going directly against me, I wouldn't have even noticed that she was cheating, but since I did and I spoke up to the brand, the situation deserved a better response than a virtual shrugging of the shoulders.

It should be noted that Brand #2 got the majority of things right. They have an amazing, super friendly, and helpful concierge service, and what the brand offers is an innovative way to get access to pleasant experiences. So it's unfortunate that this one misstep has tainted that overall experience with the brand.

So based on this experience, I've compiled three ways that brands fail at consumer engagement. But in true Candy form, I'll never give the pit without the peach, so read on for how brands can correct these missteps and turn consumers into life-long brand champions.

#1: Being social without a strategy

Jumping the gun to grow your social media channels and engagement without having a strong strategic plan when it comes to planning, implementation, and follow-up, can have detrimental effects to your brand's business, reputation, and eventually, your bottom-line.

Brand #2 did not have clear guidelines regarding the contest. If exactly what the contest is, who can win, when the contest officially begins and ends, and any other relevant stipulations for entering and winning, isn't crystal clear, then you're not doing your job.

The contest also stated that the “winners” would be announced on March 15th, but yet, only one winner was announced. If you're claiming that your brand followed the contest rules which stated the photo with the most likes, with no clear cut-off time, then how are you not upholding the rest of your contest guidelines? As a brand, you cannot have it both ways, as you can see, your consumers are watching, blogging, and commenting.

Correct it: The devil's in the detail.

Be sure to thoroughly proof read your guidelines when holding any social media contests. Make sure that you have your contest and giveaway rules extremely buttoned-up, so that there's no wiggle room for error and assumptions.

If you're unclear on how to run a clean, successful, and honest contest, then you shouldn't be running one until you get your fine print in order. And don't forget to have standards.

Of course, we can't control if people win contests through dishonest methods, but if the issue is brought to your attention by a consumer, then you should address it in an ethical way that shows the consumer exactly who you are as a brand. If a consumer feels scammed based on an experience that you provided, then you it's your obligation to correct that experience.

#2: Responding with your future strategy rather than a current solution

Brand #2 made me feel as though I had done something wrong by speaking up. They didn't offer any solution to the issue but rather they responded that “moving forward they would have more contests that didn't include likes.”

Well, that's great for future contests, but that doesn't address my current issue. I know that if I held an event, contest, or any type of experience and a consumer told me that the integrity of that experience was compromised, my response would not be, “Oh well.” I would at least look into the situation. Shrugging your shoulders at a consumers concerns is sure fire way to lose them, and quickly.

Additionally, Brand #2 made it seem as though my issue was all about the prize, but it was always about the principle. I felt scammed during an experience that they hosted. As a brand, you have to take ownership and accountability for that. We live in a transparent and social media-based world, and we will happily forgive your missteps, intentional or not, if you own them, but we will meme a brand, literally to death, for not stepping up when they falter.

Correct it: Offer a carrot to your consumer rather than a stick.

Showing them that you care and that their concerns have been addressed goes a long way and is easily done by simply offering an olive branch. If Brand #2 had shown any level of interest into converting me into a brand champion rather than treating me like nuisance, then this article would never have been written.

There's a reason why smart brands offer free returns, free shipping, gift bags, and comped services. They know that giving their consumers a carrot, regardless of how small, will convert them into loyal customers that will then give them their business and praise time-and-time again.

If Brand #2 had simply responded in a way that showed that they cared about me on very basic consumer level, then I would felt about them the way I felt about Brand #1 and would have happily given them my business and word-of-mouth praise to my friends and social media audience. It could have been as simple as sending me one of their mists, that I actually use on a daily basis and love. But honestly, a simple apology, would have been enough to suffice and correct the situation and gain me as a brand champion.

The entire point of social media, globalization, and transparency, is to humanize brands and to create authentic connections between the consumer and the corporation. You need to treat your consumer as if they were your best friend.

#3: Forgetting that tradition trumps trends

Brand #2 only responded to me through Instagram DM, and even though that's “so 2017,” when it comes to creating authentic connections with your consumers, upping your communication game is key.

The fact that I emailed about my issue and then received an Instagram DM with a lackluster response, seemed dismissive and unprofessional. Yes, I'm a tech-savvy, digital-obsessed millennial, but I'm also a person, and they way in which a brand humanizes itself is by offering to communicate with their consumers in multiple ways.

Correct it: Offer options

When a consumer comes to a brand with a concern and they only address that concern through Instagram DM, it can come across as a bit dismissive. To easily correct this, simply offer options.

Ask the consumer how they want to communicate with you regarding the issue. For some consumers, Instagram DM is fine, for others, they would prefer email, a phone call, or live chat. Simply asking the consumer goes along way and it's an easy way to show the consumer that you are putting them first and thinking about their needs.

I hope you found this article helpful! If so, please share with your friends and comment below.

Sony Music x Mr. Probz

Hi lovelies,

Music festival season is in full swing from SXSW, Austin City Limits, to Coachella. This means it's the perfect time to discover new and amazing music. That's why my latest musical obsession is Mr. Probz. He's a highly sought-after Dutch artist who hails from Dutch Antilles.

Even though he's a break-out artist, he's already won several awards for his hit single, 'Waves,' including the 3FM award for "Best Single." He's also won the prestigious Edison Award for "Best Song" and the super cool Dutch 'Schaal van Rigter' award. 

This past February, Mr. Probz dropped a hit song, 'Til You're Loved' and it's not-to-be-missed. I love his smooth voice, enchanting lyrics, and catchy beats. I'm sure you'll be a huge fan, just like me, so check out his latest song on Spotify here, and watch the video above!

The Skinny on RSVP Skinnies

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Hi lovelies,

This year is all about loving your body and getting healthy, fit, and confident. I love finding new healthy tips, tricks, and products that help me look and feel my best, which is why I feel in love with RSVP Skinnies.

They are a zero calorie and no sugar, pocket-sized drink mixer that can create any signature cocktail or new yummy recipe that you can think of! What sets RSVP Skinnies a part from other mixers is that they are no sugary fruit juices added which makes mixers unprocessed and made from 100% plant-based ingredients. Plus, the mixers are all natural with no preservatives or artificial coloring which goes great with my already active and healthy lifestyle of eating clean, exercising, and meditating.

RSVP Skinnies is the perfect way to treat myself without any unnecessary guilt or fitness consequences.  You can grab your own skinnies on Amazon, Facebook (Shopify) and on the company’s website at www.rsvpskinnies.com and they are super affordable at only $6.00 per box of 6 packets.

THE SKINNY ON RSVP SKINNIES

"RSVP Skinnies are a healthy beverage alternative to regular beverage mixers! This delicious and nutritious beverage brand is the first zero calorie, all natural cocktail mixer that health conscious foodies are loving!

Small enough to fit in your pocket, RSVP Skinnies are guilt-free mixers - guaranteed to make the perfect cocktail every time. Choose from a variety of mouth-watering flavors that include the NY Cosmo, Baja Margarita, Maui MaiTai, and London Gimlet!"

How to make any RSVP Skinnies Cocktail:

• Pick your favorite mixer
• Mix 1 Skinnies packet with 1.5-ounce alcohol
• Add 4 ounces of water
• Shake or stir and enjoy

Relax and Rejuvenate at Spa Lé La

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Hi lovelies,

The sun is finally back and shining brighter than ever in sunny Los Angeles, CA. This means that I'm in the mood to enjoy life, relax, and take the time to treat my mind, body, and soul to a day of unwinding and leisure.

My first stop was to the new and innovative child-friendly spa, Spa Lé La, located in Studio City. I was super excited for a day of relaxation to usher in Spring with a fresh perspective, revitalized body, and a calm mind. The very first thing that I noticed about the spa was it's warm atmosphere and super friendly staff.

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Hanging in the Infrared Sauna

I was greeted by Trina Renea, the spa creator, and she couldn't have been more lovely. She talked me through the entire process to make I felt at-home and at ease. My spa day entailed a 30-minute experience in the infrared sauna followed by a healing enzyme facial.  

The spa smelled of inviting citrus and I sipped on sparkling water while waiting to go in for my treatments with the sweet sound of children's laughter as the backdrop. Usually when you're at a spa there's zero trace of children or babies, but that's what sets Spa Le La a part from other spas as they encourage both men and women to bring their children to the spa with them to receive free childcare while they get pampered and relaxed.

Even though I don't have children, I can still appreciate the beauty and genius of this innovative concept. I can go to the spa with my sister and her children and enjoy a Sister Spa Day while my nieces are being cared for.

Plus, it's that time where all of my friends are starting to have children of their own and what better way to catch up with a new mom then by sharing massages, facials, mani-pedis, and Mimosas? Did I mention that you also get treated to a complimentary beverage as the spa as well? It really has something for everyone. 

My skin is still glowing from my facial and my body sweated out toxins and impurities while I was in the infrared sauna for a rejuvenated body, mind, and spirit.

See below for the official scoop on Spa Le La, and connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Book your spa day for you and your little one by calling 747-227-4338.

Spa Lé La - Making Mommy Me-Time and Relaxation Possible
Spa catering to busy modern moms offers quality onsite care for kids

Studio City, California - Moms have found their Shangri-La in Spa Lé La, the new Studio City place for pampering that accommodates busy moms by offering quality onsite childcare during treatments. The concept of catering to mommy-me-time is simple, because hardworking moms often don’t have a free hand nevermind free time for a temporary and relaxing escape.
 
Spa creator Trina Renea found that after she became a mom, merging a welcoming sanctuary for moms and safe playful space for kids was a perfect and necessary match. Spa Lé La (www.SpaLeLa.com) is so in tune with the pressures of parenting, it even offers the pleasure of naptime for sleep-deprived mom (or dad) on a sumptuous bed.
 
The entire vision of the spa focuses on mom’s need to make sure everyone else is cared for before she can slip away to find her inner calm. Spa Lé La maximizes precious time for temporary transportation to tranquility by providing attentive care straight away. Staff serves mom her favorite tea ushering her to the sanctuary and joyfully welcomes children to settle them into the all-natural and clean environment of the play area.

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Designers thoroughly researched the kids zone to guarantee the best possible experience for children ages six months to nine years under the careful watch of CPR certified childcare professionals. While it is safe and sterile, the play area is packed with toys, books, activities, color and whimsy that speaks joy to its precious little clients. Single children receive complimentary care, and it’s $6 for a second child.
 
The innovative spa specializes in $70 combinations of two treatments, whether it be a bath and a nap or infrared sauna and massage throne. Every treatment begins with a soothing hot towel, and founder Trina Renea brings with her expertise in the art of beautiful skin perfected at the popular Facial Bungalow in Los Angeles. Treatments can include getting hair styled for a well-deserved night out and competitive pricing is based on the philosophy that luxury doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive.
 
Following the opening of its maiden spa in Studio City, Spa Lé La will grow to four additional locations in the Los Angeles area. Once moms (dads welcome too) become aware of the gift of an inclusive spa designed specifically for their rejuvenation in Los Angeles, the plan is to launch franchises across America. Moms everywhere will win back their sense of self and be rewarded with rejuvenation and a fresh state of mind to face the real challenges and grind of modern motherhood.

Zeqr: The future of information exchange is here

Hi lovelies,

Ever since founding The Billionaire Blogger Society, I've been honored to share my knowledge and expertise with ambitious, passionate, and driven like-minded creative professionals seeking to create profitable and purposeful blogs, brands, and businesses.

This also means that I'm constantly on the hunt for new, exciting, inspiring, and innovative ways to share information, connect with my audience, and grow my online community. Luckily for me and my students, there's Zeqr, which is a new global knowledge hub that aims to enhance how people across the world exchange information.

Zeqr is the perfect platform for me and other experts to create, share, and post classes while providing personalized one-to-one live video sessions with our clients and students. As a creative professional, what I like most about Zeqr is the freedom and flexibility that it provides me to generate extra income on my own terms and schedule.

Finding new revenue streams is super important to me as a I grow my own blog, brand, and business, and with Zeqr, I get to set my own prices and work with my clients based on my own availability. I love being able to create meaningful classes and connect with my students when it's mutually convenient for both of us. It's also rewarding and refreshing to get properly compensated for the value that I'm adding to others.

What I also love about the Zeqr platform and creative community, is that joining the Zeqr registry of knowledge sharers and seekers is super simple and the platform is very intuitive. I simply created a professional profile which includes my areas of expertise, a short bio, a cool video, a fun pic, and my contact info. The platform walks you through each step and there's a super friendly staff ready to assist you along the way in a real-time chat box, so you don't have to wait for help or ever feel stuck or lost. After that, I was able to create customized classes, set my own prices, and signup for a few classes myself.

Since I believe that we should always be learning, growing, and seeking new knowledge, Zeqr is an efficient way to share and gain additional expertise, all in one place.

At the core of what Zeqr has to offer is being to provide the exchange of knowledge and expertise on a convenient yet real-time basis, so if you're an expert seeking to share knowledge, or if you're looking to up-level your life and career through gaining knowledge, then join Zeqr, here, and get started today.

*Although this is a sponsored post with Zeqr, all opinions are my own.

3 Ways to Get Fit with Wrigley's Orbit Gum

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Thank you Orbit Gum for sponsoring this post. Get into the action and pick up some Orbit at your favorite retailer!

Hi lovelies,

Since kicking off the New Year, I've been maintaining my health and fitness goals by following three fun and easy guidelines while adding in the super flavorful, but never too sweet, Orbit® Gum by Wrigley's.

True to my belief that everything starts from within, having a healthy, strong, and fit body, starts with being happy and whole from the inside out while having a balanced and healthy mindset. Thus, I strive to be mindful of how I treat my body and what I put into my body.

Orbit Gum helps me to easily maintain this balanced lifestyle by being my fitness and health partner-in-crime whether I'm hiking Runyon Canyon, going for my morning run down Santa Monica Blvd., or curbing my sweet tooth in-between meals. Check out below for my health and fitness secrets to staying on-track.

3 Ways to Get Fit with Orbit Gum

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#1: Run with Orbit
If you know me, you know that I live for my daily runs. Whether I'm hitting up the treadmill or the pavement, I try to get in a few miles a day to clear my mind, strengthen my body, and give me an energy boost throughout the day.

In addition to having my power-house workout playlist to motivate me throughout my, I also pop in one of my favorite flavors of Orbit Gum to chew on while I let my mind flow and my feet fly. Enjoying the gum allows me to take my mind off of how many miles I'm tracking and focus on just being present in the moment and enjoying the experience.

#2: Opt for Orbit To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Even though Orbit Gum is sugar-free gum is available in some yummy flavors including Spearmint, Peppermint, Wintermint, Bubblemint, Strawberry, Citrus, Sweet Mint, and Orbit White, the gum satisfies my sweet tooth when I'm craving a treat. It's a healthy way to treat myself without consuming empty calories, sugars, and fats, from my guilt pleasures that include cookies, cake, cheese, and brownies. Especially since gum is a flavorful treat with only 5-10 calories per serving, plus sugar-free gum also provides oral care benefits.

Another healthy trick is to drink a ton of water. Usually when I have a craving or feel hungry before it's mealtime, I drink a glass of water and that cuts my craving and fills me up. A lot of the time we mistake hunger for thirst and dehydration.

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#3: Meditate with Orbit
I know, I know. You're probably tired of me incorporating mediation into my posts, but it has fundamentally changed my life and I want nothing more than to share this life-changing experience with you all.

Since healthy bodies start with healthy minds and balanced lifestyles, starting your day from a grounded place of peace through meditation is crucial in making and keeping your fitness goals. I like to enjoy Sweet Mint Orbit Gum right before I settle in for my meditation session. It leaves my mouth feeling clean and fresh, which just opens me up and puts me in relaxation mode.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

The Cloud 9 Experience: 3 Reasons to Get a Day of Rejuvenation at Exhale Spa

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Hi lovelies,

If there's one thing that I truly believe in, it's taking the time to celebrate life and to celebrate your self. We're all super busy heading from one meeting to the next, ticking off many of our 'to-dos' from our lists, and just rushing through life. 

I think it's time to stop and smell the roses, and take a few hours to pamper your self and unplug from over-connected-always-on-the-go lives. That's why I opted for The Cloud 9 Experience of a Day of Rejuvenation at the Exhale Spa, located in Santa Monica, CA, as a way to reset, restore, and rejuvenate. 

The Day of Rejuvenation includes a complete spa package that featured a relaxing and healing 60-minute Swedish massage, a refreshing and cleansing 60-minute true facial, and a pampering pure manicure and pedicure. 

See below for my top three reasons why you should treat yourself to the ultimate Cloud 9 Experience and take a day to celebrate your self with a Day of Rejuvenation.

3 Reasons to Get a Day of Rejuvenation at Exhale Spa

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Loving this plush robe at the Exhale Spa in the Fairmount Hotel! 

Reason #1: You deserve it. 
The day of rejuvenation wasn't only about getting facials and my nails done, but it was about taking the time to truly take care of myself. While at the spa, I left other people take care of me, and the friendly staff couldn't have done a better job. In my day-to-day life, I'm taking care of my clients, being a loyal friend, a trusted sister, and a diligent daughter, but at the spa, I just got to be me and have my needs met. 

We all work super hard at taking care of our families, friends, clients, and careers. It's time to allow someone else to take care of us for a change. We deserve.

Reason #2: You get personalized attention and guidance
During my massage, my masseuse noticed that I was super tense across my chest and upper back. She was super friendly and kind and asked me about my lifestyle. After we spoke, I realized that I hadn't been stretching properly after my workouts and she told me to start stretching after my workouts when my muscles are warm. I've started taking her advice and I've already noticed a huge change in my muscles. She took the time to talk to me about my life and then provide personalized guidance on how to improve and take better care of myself. 

I had the same experience with the wonderful woman who gave me my facial. She noticed that I had really good skin but had breakouts in a few spots and suggested that I add a scrub to my skincare routine. This was the magic advice that I'd been missing. I started using a daily exfoliant and a weekly deep scrub and my skin has cleared up and smoothed out. 

Reason #3: You're able to unleash your inner creativity. 
I left my day of rejuvenation feeling absolutely relaxed and re-inspired. As a creative professional, I sometimes hit creative and inspiration roadblocks and just feel depleted. Taking the time to unplug and just let go, allowed my creative juices to flow. Some times taking a break and stepping away from work, allows you to see your world, experiences, and creative endeavors in a new light. 

So if you're ready to start celebrating your self and taking the time to take care of your self, then book your Cloud 9 Experience: Day of Rejuvenation, here.

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The full scoop on your Day of Rejuvenation:
Your massage combines the best of therapeutic massage practices from around the world. This therapy uses specific rhythmic massage movements and potent herbal and aromatherapy oils to enhance the therapeutic effect. Choose from an uplifting, detoxifying or relaxing blend.

Enliven your skin with a customized facial appropriate for all skin types. A layer of a most coveted mushroom enzyme mask is used to lift away dull, tired skin and reveal a fresher, brighter version of you! Trust that all of your needs will be thoroughly addressed in this 1 hour facial - a true transformation.

Calm and soothe dry skin, leaving your skin youthful and firm with this luxurious manicure and pedicure. You'll begin with soaking your hands in a blend of Italian mandarin and ginger that will soften and soothe dry cuticles, followed by a gentle buffing with micro-algae and ginger essence. Organic ginger infused lotion will be used to massage away stress, followed by a rejuvenating light ginger mist. Finally, choose your shade of polish to accentuate your radiant hands.

For your pedicure, you will choose your aromatherapy choice from energizing eucalyptus, meditative frankincense, warming ginger, and calming geranium. Your feet will be fully exfoliated with an organic lavender scrub and then slathered in a moisturizing organic ginger mask while wrapped in hot towels. Your heels will receive extra pampering with an all natural callus remover and organic heel balm before selecting your shade of polish to top off your glowing feet.