Hi All!! I’m so stoked that I even started typing tonight. Starting a blog has been on my to do list for a while and I finally decided to jump in and put all negative thoughts away: “What are they going to say?” “Will they even read it”, “Will people even bother”. I’m telling you, boy, the mind is a trip and your biggest enemy. My advise, whatever you want to do, just do it now!
I’ve been contemplating about blogging for over 2 years and why did I wait? One word, FEAR. This is ridiculous. How more along would I be if I started 2 years ago? I think that this goes for a lot of us and is the main reason holding us back.
Keeping us back from speaking to the person you have a crush on “he/she won’t like me” afraid of rejection, applying for the job of your dreams “I won’t get it” “I’m not good enough”, taking a vacation of a lifetime because afraid of flying, wearing that risqué dress you like “people will say it’s too slutty” afraid of judgments and the list goes on.
What happened to doing things just because it makes us feel good? I can say that I’m finally able to say F this. Don’t get me wrong, the negative mind is always there, but it’s a matter of exercising mind control. I personally think that life’s too short. We all deserve the best and I do believe that there is enough abundance in the universe for all of us.
I thank you for reading my first post and I will genuinely discuss some of my life’s lessons, personal tricks, inspiring stories, fashion moments, music favorites, etc. I hope that this place will inspire someone somewhere to be brave and to have the courage to make the positive changes in their lives they deserve to have the best life possible.
Hi All! Packing a carry-on for a week-long trip requires strategy, but with the right approach, you can fit everything you need without overpacking. Here are some of the best tricks to maximize space and stay organized:
1. Choose the Right Bag
Size Matters: Most airlines allow carry-ons up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 23 cm). Stick to a bag within these dimensions to avoid last-minute surprises at check-in.
Soft vs. Hard Shell: Soft bags are typically more flexible, allowing you to squish in a bit more if needed. Hard-shell bags provide better protection but may not expand as much.
2. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling clothes compresses them and saves space, plus it helps reduce wrinkles. Use the “bundle” method for delicate items or layering pieces like shirts, pants, and jackets.
Compression Bags: For bulkier items (jackets, sweaters), consider using vacuum or compression bags. These reduce the space they take up but can add a little extra weight.
3. Utilize Packing Cubes
Organization: Packing cubes help keep clothes organized and compact. You can separate by category (e.g., shirts, underwear, toiletries) or by outfit for easier access.
Airline-Specific: Some cubes are designed for specific carry-on measurements, ensuring you can fit more in and avoid excess weight.
4. Use Every Inch of Space
Shoes: Stuff shoes with socks, belts, or smaller items like chargers and toiletries. This will maximize unused space inside your footwear.
Hats: If you’re bringing a hat, stuff it with soft items like scarves or t-shirts to maintain its shape and save space.
5. Pack Multi-Purpose Items
Versatile Clothing: Opt for clothing that can be mixed and matched, and can work in multiple settings (business, casual, or dinner out). Stick to neutral colors that pair easily.
Multi-Use Gadgets: For electronics, try using multi-port chargers or a device that combines several functions (e.g., a tablet that doubles as a laptop).
6. Toiletries in Travel Size
3-1-1 Rule: Remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids: 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller containers, packed in a 1-quart-sized zip-top bag.
Solid Alternatives: Consider solid shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and other solid toiletries to save space and avoid liquids altogether.
7. Wear Bulky Items
Wear your heaviest clothes (like jackets, boots, or hats) during travel. This saves a significant amount of space in your bag, and you’ll be more comfortable if it’s cold on the plane.
8. Limit Shoes
Aim for two pairs of shoes: one versatile pair (e.g., comfortable sneakers or flats) and one more formal pair (or sandals/flip-flops for warmer destinations).
Slip-ons are ideal for going through security without hassle.
9. Tech and Gadgets
Keep tech to a minimum—pack only the essentials (e.g., phone, charger, tablet, headphones). A multi-purpose power bank can save you from carrying multiple chargers.
Use a universal adapter if traveling internationally, so you don’t need several individual plugs.
10. Limit Accessories
Stick to a couple of statement accessories that can transform outfits without taking up much room (e.g., a scarf, necklace, or watch).
Jewelry: Pack only what you really need and consider small pouches or cloth bags to keep everything tangle-free.
11. Plan for Laundry
If you’re staying at a place with laundry facilities, pack lighter and plan to do a load mid-week. This can reduce the number of clothes you need.
Laundry Bag: Bring a small, breathable bag to separate dirty clothes from clean ones.
12. Maximize Personal Item Space
In addition to your carry-on, you may be allowed a personal item like a backpack or tote. Pack electronics, snacks, a book, and any essential items you’ll need during the flight in your personal item.
13. Check Weather & Itinerary
Pack based on the weather forecast and specific activities you’ll be doing. Avoid overpacking “just in case” items, and focus on what’s necessary for your trip.
Being consistent daily in your efforts is one of the most powerful ways to achieve your goals. Here’s how it helps:
1. Builds Momentum
Small, daily actions compound over time, creating momentum that makes progress feel easier as you go. Just like rolling a snowball down a hill, consistent effort gradually builds into something much bigger.
2. Fosters Discipline
Consistency requires discipline. By showing up every day, you reinforce habits that shape your work ethic, making it less about motivation and more about routine. Discipline is a key factor in long-term success, especially when the initial excitement of a new goal starts to wear off.
3. Improves Focus
Daily consistency encourages you to break large goals down into smaller, manageable tasks. By focusing on one thing at a time, you reduce overwhelm and stay focused on what really matters each day.
4. Increases Skill and Knowledge
The more frequently you practice or learn, the quicker you improve. Whether it’s fitness, writing, or business skills, daily effort leads to faster learning and mastery over time. Even small daily improvements lead to big leaps when viewed in the long-term.
5. Helps You Adapt
The process of showing up every day allows you to learn from your mistakes, adjust strategies, and grow. It teaches resilience as you develop the ability to adapt to challenges without getting derailed by setbacks.
6. Keeps You Accountable
Daily habits create a sense of accountability. When you commit to showing up every day, you’re more likely to track your progress, evaluate where you are, and take responsibility for your actions.
7. Turns Goals into Habits
Consistency is the secret ingredient to turning any goal into a habit. When a behavior becomes a part of your routine, it stops feeling like work and becomes a natural part of your day. This makes it more sustainable and easier to maintain long-term.
8. Prevents Procrastination
Procrastination thrives when you put things off until tomorrow or when you make tasks feel bigger than they are. Daily consistency breaks down tasks into small, actionable steps that are harder to avoid. Completing something every day gives you a sense of accomplishment and motivation to keep going.
9. Maintains Progress Even on Off Days
On days when motivation is low or circumstances are tough, even a small, consistent effort will help you maintain progress. It’s about showing up, not necessarily going all out every time. Just doing something every day ensures you’re never completely off track.
10. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem
Daily progress, even if it’s incremental, builds your confidence. As you keep showing up, you prove to yourself that you can stay committed and achieve what you set out to do. Each small win reinforces your belief in your abilities.
To sum it up, daily consistency is about showing up and doing something every day to move closer to your goal. Over time, the incremental progress you make becomes significant, and this discipline builds habits that can carry you through any challenge. It’s the combination of persistence, focus, and daily effort that ultimately leads to success.
Here is a gift idea for the multi-taskers to walk towards those goals: Walking Pad Under Desk Treadmill – Black: https://shorturl.at/64cTa
I’m known to wear black a lot and to have black key pieces in my wardrobe.
For example, every woman should have a black cocktail dress in her closet because it’s the ultimate versatile wardrobe staple. Here’s why:
1. Timeless Elegance
A black cocktail dress never goes out of style. It’s classic and sophisticated, exuding a sense of timelessness that transcends trends. The “little black dress” (LBD) became iconic thanks to Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and its appeal endures because it always looks polished and chic.
2. Versatility
A black cocktail dress can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a cocktail party, or a more casual gathering, the right accessories can transform the look. Pair it with a blazer for a more professional vibe or dress it up with statement jewelry and heels for evening events.
3. Slimming and Flattering
Black is known for its slimming effect, making a black dress a go-to choice for those looking to feel confident and put-together. It also works with various body types, offering a flattering silhouette for almost everyone.
4. Easy to Accessorize
Black provides a neutral base that allows you to experiment with bold colors and textures in your accessories. Whether it’s a colorful handbag, sparkling jewelry, or a bold scarf, a black dress complements almost anything.
5. Low Maintenance
Black is a forgiving color when it comes to stains or wrinkles, making it a practical option for busy women. It’s a low-maintenance piece that won’t require constant attention or care.
6. Timely and Appropriate
A black cocktail dress works for many occasions—from weddings and gala events to birthday parties and date nights. It’s a dress that can be pulled out at a moment’s notice when you’re unsure of the dress code, because black is almost always the right choice.
7. Confidence Booster
Wearing something that is both flattering and versatile gives a sense of confidence. When you know you look good, it’s easier to feel poised and empowered at any event.
In short, a black cocktail dress is a wardrobe essential because it offers endless styling options, looks great on everyone, and guarantees you’ll always be prepared for any occasion.
Building a sustainable wardrobe is about making mindful choices that prioritize longevity, versatility, and environmental impact. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a sustainable wardrobe that aligns with both your values and style:
1. Assess Your Current Wardrobe
Audit your closet: Take everything out and review what you already own. Identify items you wear often and pieces that are rarely used. This can help you avoid duplicating items and highlight what’s missing.
Donate or sell unused items: Be honest about what you won’t wear again. Donating or selling clothes that are in good condition helps reduce waste and can benefit others.
2. Define Your Personal Style
Invest in classic, timeless pieces: Opt for versatile items that won’t go out of style quickly. Neutral colors, simple cuts, and high-quality materials tend to last longer and pair well with different pieces.
Create a capsule wardrobe: A capsule wardrobe consists of a small collection of essential, well-made clothing items that can be mixed and matched. This minimizes clutter and ensures everything you own is wearable in multiple ways.
3. Choose High-Quality, Durable Clothing
Focus on quality, not quantity: Invest in high-quality fabrics like organic cotton, wool, linen, and silk, which tend to last longer than cheaper, synthetic materials.
Look for sustainable certifications: Brands that are certified by organizations like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), Fair Trade, and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 typically prioritize ethical production practices and environmental sustainability.
4. Embrace Slow Fashion
Avoid fast fashion: Fast fashion companies often prioritize cheap, mass-produced clothing that’s made with low-quality materials and under exploitative labor conditions. Slow fashion, on the other hand, focuses on producing fewer items with attention to detail, fair wages, and ethical practices.
Support small and local businesses: Small, independent brands are more likely to have transparent supply chains and produce clothing in smaller, ethical batches.
5. Buy Secondhand or Vintage
Thrift shopping and consignment stores: Purchasing secondhand clothing can drastically reduce the environmental impact of your wardrobe. Look for high-quality items that are in good condition and that fit your personal style.
Online secondhand platforms: Websites and apps like Depop, Poshmark, ThredUp, and eBay are great for finding gently used clothing.
6. Care for Your Clothes
Follow proper care instructions: Taking good care of your clothes will make them last longer. Follow washing and drying instructions carefully to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
Repair and mend items: Rather than discarding clothing with minor tears or damage, learn simple sewing techniques to patch them up. You can also take items to a tailor for repairs.
Proper storage: Store seasonal clothing in breathable garment bags or boxes, and avoid overstuffing drawers and closets, which can damage clothes over time.
7. Opt for Timeless Trends and Versatility
Buy items that work for all seasons: Look for pieces that can transition between seasons with the help of layering. This minimizes the need for new clothes when the weather changes.
Mix and match: Invest in pieces that complement each other and can create many different outfits.
8. Be Mindful About Fabric Choices
Avoid synthetic fibers: Materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are made from petroleum-based resources and are not biodegradable. These fabrics also shed microplastics when washed.
Choose natural or recycled fabrics: Materials like organic cotton, hemp, and bamboo are more sustainable alternatives. Recycled polyester or wool is another good option.
9. Buy Less, Choose Wisely
Focus on need vs. want: Before buying something new, ask yourself whether it truly fills a gap in your wardrobe and if you will wear it frequently.
Set a budget: A sustainable wardrobe doesn’t have to be expensive, but setting a budget helps you make more intentional purchases and avoid impulse buying.
10. End-of-Life Solutions
Recycle or upcycle old clothes: If your clothing can no longer be worn, look for ways to recycle or repurpose it. Some brands offer take-back programs where they recycle used clothing into new garments.
Upcycle or DIY: Get creative by turning old clothes into something new—whether it’s transforming a worn shirt into a bag or using old denim to make new patches.
By focusing on the quality and longevity of each item, reducing waste, and supporting ethical brands, you’ll be able to build a sustainable wardrobe that is both environmentally friendly and practical.
Hi Y’all, it’s 11pm in LA and I was just thinking how crazy well made the earth, nature and universe is. All is energy. It’s incredible to think that we hold the key to all we want in our lives. Yes, nothing technically comes easy but it’s so insane what a positive attitude can do. We have to ensure to exercise our minds not to fall in the negative snowball effect as soon as something doesn’t go as planned as typically, our day gets worse and worse stuck in that negative mind space. This happens to all of us.
Everyone keeps saying visualization and projecting our wants and biggest dreams in the universe (vision board) will attract those desires to us and I do believe that it’s true. From what I’ve noticed, the most successful people have this infectious positive energy which just seems to keep attracting bigger and better things to their lives. It’s hard to control the mind mainly when something difficult or upsetting happens in our lives but I did notice that by moving on to better things with a great positive attitude, things definitely got better and easier.
Looking back at Prince’s, Michael Jackson’s and Queen’s performances, they seemed to me as if they were on a different channel of contagious energy and love. As if a different vibration. Is this why some people and artists are more successful than others? A combination of undeniable talent, originality and out of this world positive energy? All I seem to notice is that it definitely makes a difference in someone’s life and that it’s crucial to surround ourselves with people of the same energy to maintain that high vibration to reach our goals. How come animals have so much love to give? Pets energies are also so contagious that they are literally therapeutic. They even comfort us when we are sad and are sensitive to it. This is not a coincidence. Nature is so well made, it even is designed in such a way that it gives back constant joy, love and positive energy when we need it. It even feeds our bodies! In a world that gives so much, it’s so heart breaking how humans destroy all resources and animals without even an after thought, all sources of love.
Has anyone else ever noticed or experienced this too?
I send all my love and positive energy to anyone in need of it right now. Days will get better. It always does.
So I’ve been hearing this a lot in the past few months and decided to literally conduct an experiment to see if this will work for me. I definitely want you to be a part of this journey with me if you want to.
Of course, a new year comes along and I created a list of items I want to accomplish which is similar from year to year and for the most part very popular with the masses: Get back in shape, eat healthier, somehow make time to materialize my dreams even tough my schedule is hectic, read more, live more for the present moment, put stress and anxiety away and so on.
The only difference this year is that I finally got fed up with wanting and having the best intentions possible to reach all those things but failing to actually achieve them as they are always simply a wish and not concretized in my life.
I figured that to reach those goals, I would have to definitely put in a little more effort and planning. Basically, to make time for those, and what best way than bit by bit every day. I mean, I tried in the past, but it was too fast, too big, too soon which only left me discouraged. I just thought, in the work place in order to get things done, I have to add tasks in my daily calendar so it’s concrete/real and have no choice to commit to those deadlines etc. and this works great for me. Why the hell not do it in my personal life. Isn’t life more important than anything else? I mean, we only live once!
That being said, I incorporated 3 x 30 mins gym sessions a week to my schedule with 1 hour a day of blogging to insure my goals would be met this year. I also am not going into this with any expectations at all but I can say that I’m at least committed to myself to stick to this and I think that a level of self-respect has to be reached first to get there.
When I initially went Vegan 1.5 year ago, well basically 95% Vegan as I simply cannot give up the cheese yet, it wasn’t even a question if I was going to succeed. My huge love for animals and strong belief in not supporting a meat industry which torture animals for fun was enough. All I needed was to see a few disturbing images online and it was a wrap on top of the “What the Health” documentary which my friend Mariah suggested for me to watch. I haven’t touched meat ever since and do not miss it at all. Me! The prior charcuterie lover! Plant based is awesome and I really must say that I feel healthier inside and more energized. Same for the drug industry, I simply never wanted to consume drugs as this industry also kills and tortures people and I don’t want to support it + it’s bad for you. This is my belief and do respect everyone’s point of view as everyone’s journey is different.
To recap, I think what works for me is a valid motivation to make the positive changes I need. In the case of my new year’s resolutions, I choose me. I choose to simply finally make time for me and since I realized that going too big too fast never worked, I scheduled myself in little doses. I would advise anyone which wants to make a positive change to first know what their main driver is. That’s the key to focus on.
I encourage you to experiment this strategy at the same time as me as I would love to hear some encouragements and personal feedbacks as well as for us to progress together.
I was just contemplating on what my second post should be about as I was listening to Apple music’s “Gym Flow” hip hop sound track and caught myself skip all songs but Drake’s “Nonstop”, Post Malone’s “Wow” and Travis Scott’s Astroworld. Everything else which was mainly trap was skipped. Now, even though a little older and realizing that a big portion of trap music is most likely consumed by teens and 20 year olds, I always try to go outside of myself and of what I am accustomed to in order to grow as a human being and open my horizons to new things, but for some reason, this genre does not resonate with me other than with the 3 artists I previously mentioned for example. Is it that they have better flows, more rhythm, catchier hooks and the fact that being a ballet trained individual, am I technically more leaning towards songs with rhythm as I love to dance?
I must say that some trap songs are definitely more to vibe to than to dance to. Is it that since I do not smoke marijuana or do not get “f up” it’s harder for me to vibe to? Do you necessarily have to be intoxicated to get it? I don’t know. But all I know is that whatever the case is, it would be great to discuss other subjects than twerking, money, bitches, riches, drugs, death, etc.
Why does the youth need to be high all the time?
Is there a bigger issue here lying underneath? Probably. To me, drugs are simply a way to escape reality. Why the need to escape it? While I do know that some teens lives are definitely not easy, some other teens do have a great life and have it all, but peer pressure is so strong mainly at that age. True strength is by doing what you wanna do, not what others pressure you to do. Self control.
Of course, I’m sure this market sales the best and the industry is feeding the demand and profiting on it. Who doesn’t want to make profit, I’m all for that, but at what cost?
What are we trading in exchange? Perhaps I’m thinking too deep into it and I don’t know if you agree but I simply do not think that those songs uplift or motivate the youth to become entrepreneurs or CEO’s or to help others, etc.
Yeah it’s great to show you made it and you’re now winning and you now have money, but why flaunt it in the faces of people who are literally struggling and don’t know where the next meal is coming from? I think we are literally telling the youth to do anything they gotta do to “get the bag” and that it’s ok to disregard morals as long as you got money. Is that all there is in life? Some people are rich and miserable.
It’s all about balance and once you’re on top, I do believe that artists should realize how many spirits they are touching and their reach. I do believe that music does save lives and continues to do so.
I once had the privilege to meet Diddy in a studio session and simply said hello to him and Cassie. I didn’t want to bother them so I didn’t tell them more than a hello as I like to let people be, but inside, all I could think about was, man, you’ve been in my life through song for decades, you were with me when I first fell in love, you were with me when I got my heart-broken, you were with me on my first trip to NYC on a huge billboard in the middle of time square with your fist in the air and a mohawk doo, and here you are in front of me. Just like that. And you never knew I existed, and don’t know how close you touched my heart through song all those years and sometimes cured my pain. He was very observant and did ask me what the tattoo on my wrist meant which I thought was very sweet that he even noticed.
It’s a big responsibility and I urge all artists to realize that power. There’s so much more to talk about.
CatG's 