What Have You Done For Yourself Lately?

What Have You Done For Yourself Lately?

by | Nov 19, 2021 | Self-Care

The Holiday Season is upon us, and I don’t know about you, but time seems to be going way too fast!

This past year has been challenging for many, and I found myself having to remind folks to take time to relax, reflect and reinvest in themselves.

Of course, change can be uncomfortable, but it can also be the kick needed to get us out of a rut. So today, I’m suggesting taking some quality time for self-care.

That means taking better care of yourself- mentally, physically, and spiritually!

It means putting yourself at the top of your to-do list.

It means not putting off those things that bring you joy.

Suggestions include:

  • Connecting with people that make you laugh or that you may not have seen or spoken to in a while.

  • Planning something fun to look forward to- a trip, outing, or holiday event

  • Taking a break and scheduling some quality time to unplug

  • Dancing, like no one, is watching (this is my favorite)

When life gets busy, it is easy to ignore taking care of yourself or to feel guilty for doing so. However, you cannot or should not try to “give from an empty cup.”

When you invest in yourself, you will benefit, and so will those that count on you.

I am following my own advice, and I am getting back on track with:

  • Morning walks

  • Stretching exercises

  • Dancing

  • Trying to get more sleep by going to bed a little earlier

  • Managing and organizing all medical and dental appointments

  • Finding and listening to some great podcasts – (let me know any podcast that you recommend)

I would love to hear some of the self-care ideas you have done or plan to do in the coming months.

What fun suggestions do you have? Reply to this email and let me know.

Celebrating 15 Years of Entrepreneurship!

Celebrating 15 Years of Entrepreneurship!

by | Apr 5, 2021 | Celebrate

It has been 15 years of experiencing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.

It has not always been easy, but it has definitely been fun and worth the experience.

The good news is that I continue to celebrate and to learn lessons along the way and I am now rebranding my website to www.marshahaygood.com as I celebrate this 15th anniversary year.

When I made the decision to leave my corporate position as EVP of Human Resources and Administration 15 years ago, I was initially fearful of starting a new venture as an entrepreneur.   However, my mission was always clear:

  • To support women of color who were feeling stuck or unfulfilled in their personal or professional life
  • To provide leadership strategies to help women in their leadership journey
  • To act as a confidant and strategic thinking partner to help clients identify and utilize their skills and experiences to move forward with purpose.

My belief then and what I now know for sure is:

  • Dreams don’t work unless you do
  • You must start with the end in mind
  • Make a plan
  • Take prudent risks
  • Be responsible for your own happiness

Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do

Hopes and dreams are essential to moving forward, however working hard is not an option- action is required.  Think about what you currently have and what you will need to do to keep you moving you forward.  What will you need to get/develop (skill, resources, etc.) and what will you have to sacrifice (your time, a study paycheck, etc.) to get what you want?  It is ok to start small, but success requires consistency.

 

Start with the End in Mind

Whatever you plan to do, begin thinking about what you would like the outcome to be.  Imagining the end result, gives you ideas on what/ how you need to focus and helps you with the planning stage.  Be truthful with yourself.  Know your WHY and be willing to speak up, advocate for yourself and share your story.

 

Make A Plan

Devise a personal business plan.  Think strategically about what you can do and the steps, large and small, required to move forward.  Developing and reviewing a written plan acts as a commitment to yourself and helps to strengthen your foundation and keep you on track. Your plan should include action items and timelines.

Remember that hope is not a strategy and someday is not a timeframe!

Take Prudent Risks

Build your confidence.  Fear can sometimes keep you safe, but it can also keep you from your big successes. Do some research and try new things that are in line with what you are looking to do.  Don’t be shy about asking questions of those that have successfully done what you want to accomplish.  Learn from others. Network and let people know what you are striving for. Chances are, you already know folks that have knowledge or resources that can help you. If you do not succeed doing everything you want to accomplish, try again.  Rather than failure, think of it as an unfinished success.

 

Happiness is a Choice

The first person you lead is yourself so check your attitude, mindset and behaviors.  A positive attitude usually yields positive results and encourages you to celebrate your accomplishments. I suggest that you reflect on what motivates you, what has worked for you and what deters you. There will always be obstacles and challenges to overcome, many of which will be out of your control. However, when you focus on the things that you can control and that are important to your goals, you will notice you are more positive and peaceful and you can overcome most barriers.

I can say that I am so glad that I took this leap from employee to entrepreneur and after 15 years I continue to enjoy the journey!

 

Thank you for your continued support along the way.