I certainly would consider this a micro-habit, it’s a little thing that I do to make sure I stay consistent with certain key meetings and appointments.  If I leave appointments up to myself to remember to schedule it is adding one more thing to do and frankly, often, they will not happen. 

Whether it be self-care or inside my business, I am a big believer in re-occurring appointments.  In business, this concept is easy to understand but in my personal life I have a variety of appointments throughout the month that make sure I take care of myself.  For example, my Acupuncture appointment just shows up on my calendar and I have automatically left room on my calendar for it.  I would tend to not schedule it or leave room for the appointment if it was not automatically on there.

If I can’t set up a re-occurring appointment, like with my Functional Medicine Dr, then I let the person I connect with to not let me leave that day before getting another appointment on the books.   

I also have a list of weekly and monthly items I need to be sure get on my calendar, like a date with Adam each week, I review this at my Sunday sit-down to make sure I am leaving room for the things most important to me.

Our calendars reflect what our real priorities are (our actions).  I also know that taking care of myself, so I am the best for those around me, is of utmost importance, so making that simpler for me has been re-occurring appointments.
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Do you have set re-occurring appointments?  What appointments do you have that you may be able to automate?
B.

Before I dig into work each workday I listen and journal to Darren Hardy, he has short mentor video’s each morning, delivered right to your e-mail, packed with great advice. 

Finding a mentor is imperative to success, I have a few different people I lean into as mentors and those relationships are ones I cherish!   Mentors don’t need to be someone you personally know, I’d say one of my mentors is Darren Hardy, but he does no t know me – I have invested in multiple ways in his mentorship, from books, to courses and more. 

Our success journeys are filled with challenges, triumphs, and many lessons along the way, taking the time to prioritize my mindset first and the practice of journaling really cements the lessons.   There is a concept called “The Learning Loop” and when you hear something, write it down, say it, we increase our learning.  This is one of the reasons why I journal to the videos. 

Since this has been a practice of mine for so long, one of the fun ‘side-effects’ has been, my mind tends to think and naturally lean into the topics and mindsets that Darren Hardy has taught. 

If you are interested in adding this habit to your day, here is the website to sign up: https://darrendaily.com/

If you do choose to lean into this habit, I’d love to hear your takeaways.  As with most things in life, it’s the small habits repeated over time that make big impacts.  Darren wrote a book on that, it’s called The Compound Effect, great book if you are looking for a new read.

B.

​I made a change this year that I never saw myself doing!  I ditched my paper planner – GASP!  For those  planner geeks out there (me very much included) this was a big deal.  I have used the Sol Planner for years, and before that it was the Passion Planner.  I LOVE to write and to plan.  In addition to my planner, I have an ongoing notebook/ journal that I have used daily for years.   The problem is that I write so much I fill up a journal in just a couple months so I end up lugging a planner and most often 2 journals with me everywhere I go and often add in my laptop (and mouse and charger) – now that is enough to seriously weigh a girl down.  Add in all the beverages I carry around with me (typically at least 3) and if I am trying to be responsible and bring my lunch for the day – I end up looking like I am moving in anywhere I am going. 

I moved to using a Remarkable.  The Remarkable was able to condense BOTH my planning and writing into one 8x11 device, and the best part is that it still feels like I am writing on paper – which is a big deal to me.  I learned that I could buy digital planners on etsy for the Remarkable and spent like $20 for 6 years of planners, score!  Additionally, each planner page has a note page, and you can add pages to the note pages, so you have your entire day in one spot.  You can create folders with notes on specific topics and can even e-mail them to yourself or even other people!   I also sent the PDF of our 2024 Aspire plan for the agency to the device, so I have that on my fingertips!
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The Remarkable is NOT a smart device, the beauty is that it’s basic and keeps you focused on the task at hand and does not distract with the ability to browse the web – which I appreciate because I am the queen of embracing distractions.  One charge also lasts about a week, so I love that!

I moved to the Remarkable a couple months ago and it’s been a good decision, I am glad I did it.  It simplified an area that I needed simplification.  I had wanted a Remarkable for about a year, but waited to be sure it was something I really did want, they are not cheap, especially for a ‘dumb device’ but it was well worth the expense, and I’d encourage you to consider if this may be a good move for you too. 
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What do you use for a planner?
B. 

This is a topic I have had a long-standing adventure with.  I didn’t grow up in a family that really prioritized exercise, and then I married Adam and he has had a life-long commitment to his fitness.  I know and believe in the importance of physical fitness, and then the journey for myself personally has been a bit of a metamorphosis, I’m still working on this area.

I used to work out because I purely wanted to look good, I have had times when I have been really fit and some of those times, I went about it the right way and other times I didn’t – like when I didn’t get my period for 9 months because I was so underweight.  I would almost use food and exercise as a punishment and the mindset was just off.
I have had other times, like when the agency really started to grow at a good clip, and I totally ditched taking care of myself and the weight just packed on and I felt like total crap.   I knew I needed to revisit my fitness and I realized how stressed that thought would make me because of how messed up I had approached working out in the past.  So, as I have dissected in 2023 and have a new approach, here are my take aways that have helped me get on a good path with my fitness again!

First – I realize that I have a bad habit of bailing on myself, I also have done enough work on myself from assessments I have taken to books I have read so I was able to come up with a solution.  I know I am wired very social; I love people.  I also know that to make sure I show up for myself I can anchor my workouts socially and then I DO show up and I enjoy it more.  So, I anchor my workouts socially!

Second – I plan all my workouts for the week on Sunday (my rest day), with a friend to workout with on each day! 

Third – I have learned that the very first thing I need to do when I wake up is go workout – it must be in the morning and right away.  I like to say that I am ½ way through working out before I am fully awake.  If I try to plan to work out (other than a walk) in the afternoon or evening, I will literally find the most creative and ridiculous reasons not to workout.  I am usually up at 4:30am to be at the gym around 5. 

Fourth – Variety, I think especially as we get older having a variety in what we do is important – plus I get bored!  I mix up Weightlifting, Spin Classes, Walking and Yoga through the week.

Fifth – I am so DONE with doing things I don’t like to do, so no running here, no flipping burpees and jumping jacks, and I’d rather pull my nails out than take a step class. 

Last – I have invested in some little things that make going to the gym more fun, like leggings I love and electrolytes I love (Like Salty Watermelon LMNT!)…sometimes it’s just the little things that give you a tiny push of motivation.

We’re all different, so my hope is that sharing this will inspire you to take notes on yourself if you are looking to get into a fitness routine and build around what fits you.  What I shared above, for me, has been a catalyst to consistency for a good 6 months now and I feel SO good.  I am not racing the clock, I am just enjoying the process and making sure that my approach is sustainable and enjoyable.

I'd love to hear some ways you prioritize your fitness and some tips and tricks that have worked for you!  Oh, and if you ever want a work out partner, don't hesitate to ask!  ;)

Happy New Year,
B. 

Over the years I have developed some habits and shortcuts that I thought I would share as a series – I have quite a few of them and it wasn’t until recently that I realized how many I had.  I thought I would share with you; in hopes that maybe one may be helpful for you.

First up, and so simple.  I put my daily supplements and vitamins where I get coffee every morning. 

As I am waiting for my coffee to brew, I take all my supplements right away.  It’s taken the mindfulness I needed to have to remember my supplements and it’s just auto pilot now – like hitting the easy button.    

Since making this simple move, I literally don’t miss a day! Sometimes it’s the simplest things that can make a big difference, like putting your supplements by your coffee!   True to most things in life, keep it simple, some of the biggest changes occur due to a simple habit shift. 

Where do you keep your vitamins and supplements? 
B.

In business one of the most crucial skills I've honed is discernment in seeking and accepting advice. All advice is not created equal, and the ability to filter out the noise and extract value is paramount for success. There is no lack of people that will want to share their advice or opinions, so I wanted to share a few things I do to help determine who bends my ear.

The first question I ask myself is “Has this person seen success to a greater degree than me in the area that I am looking for advice in?” 

After my first question I’d say know YOU and know your values, this will help you stay true to yourself and not start to emulate someone you are not.  I reflect on years ago when I had someone trying to teach me leadership and their leadership style was SO different than mine, I felt like a total fraud.  Once I discovered my leadership style and nurtured my authentic how, that is when my business took off!

I keep my circle small, quality over quantity.  I want to know that the people I surround myself with have my best interest at heart.  This helps me to be sure the intentions behind the advice are genuine and not self-serving.  Additionally, sometimes the more people you ask something, the more confused you get.

I LOVE diversity of thought – different experiences and different perspectives help make a well-rounded big picture.

Be open to constructive criticism, the older I get and the more success I see the more I look for constructive criticism.  It’s something I use to fuel me to get better!  Topic for a different day, but criticism needs to be filtered too – not all criticism is something to take to heart.   

Listen to your gut and use discernment…in a world where we are told not to judge I think sometimes we get nervous to use our discernment.  In the last 5 years I’d say one big growth area for me is that I will listen to my gut and I no longer feel any urge to justify myself…sometimes you just know the right answer. 

Filtering advice evolves with experience, balancing wisdom from others and your own instincts will help develop a more refined decision-making process.

Cheers, 
​B.

Ever walked into a networking event and had the distinct feel that most of the people present came to “get” rather than to give?  I have bowed out of a LOT of networking for this reason. 

Building relationships isn't just about exchanging business cards, sending emails and grabbing coffee to pitch your product —it's about cultivating genuine connections rooted in mutual trust and support.

When I go to a networking event or look to connect with another business owner, I go to GIVE.  This approach has been pivotal in my journey while nurturing relationships.  Leading with a giving mindset sets the tone for a relationship built on trust and authenticity, paving the way for fruitful collaborations and referrals in the future.

Building a network of trusted partners and allies starts with a mindset centered around giving without expecting immediate returns. It's about being proactive in offering value, support, and assistance to others without keeping a mental tally of what you're owed in return. This approach lays the groundwork for genuine relationships built on goodwill and reciprocity.

When initiating a referral relationship, my priority is to understand the needs and goals of the other party. By actively listening and learning about their challenges, aspirations, and strengths, I can identify ways to offer assistance or provide valuable resources. Whether it's making introductions, sharing knowledge, or offering assistance based on my expertise, the focus remains on how I can contribute to their success.

Giving first isn't just about material offerings; it's about investing time, energy, and empathy into understanding the pain points of others and offering solutions or support wherever possible. It might mean connecting them with someone in my network who can help them solve a problem, providing guidance based on my experiences, or even offering a platform for their voices to be heard.

The approach isn't confined to one-time gestures. It's an ongoing commitment to nurturing relationships by consistently providing value and support. It's about being genuinely invested in the success of those within your network.

By prioritizing generosity, empathy, and genuine support, I've not only expanded my network but also cultivated meaningful, enduring connections that have been invaluable in my professional journey. Giving first isn't just a strategy—it's a guiding principle that shapes how I approach building relationships, creating a powerful ripple effect of positivity and reciprocity in the business world.
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So, next time you are networking – find a way to give first.
Beth 

“Do what makes you happy,” “Follow your heart,” “You do you.” You know the common statements.

To clarify, I truly believe in taking good care of yourself, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.  I want to work towards being the best version of me and I am highly invested in that journey.  This being said, the WHY behind my investment is not primarily “ME” focused.  The why is so I can pour into others, and to expand my business.  If I am not working on being the next best version of me, I can’t impact, expand or inspire others to do the same!

I see so many in society with an excessive emphasis on self…it’s become a preoccupation with self above all else…the selfies, perceived success, and social media glorification and prioritization of self above all else.  All things focused inward…so many have lost our connection with anyone outside of self!

I believe this phenomenon is detrimental to mental health, I think it leads to stress, anxiety, and comparison which leads to feelings of inadequacy.  One of my favorite quotes is “Comparison is the Thief of Joy.”  Comparison will leave people feeling discontented. 

I think one of the best ways to solve this problem is to be others focused – when you take action and serve others, it makes you feel better about yourself!  When you turn the mirror around and look outwards to encourage, and foster empathy, kindness and connections, it counteractions the isolating effects of “me” culture.  I think a lot could be solved if when we start to feel down, we choose to go bless someone else! 

I think of this a lot when I look at how one defines success.  Some would look at individual achievements, I personally see the most successful people I have surrounded myself with use their achievements to impact others in a wide variety of ways.

So, while I want to take good care of myself, true happiness and success comes when we bless and impact others!
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Who will you bless today?
B. 

Life often is a whirlwind of tasks and responsibilities and it’s all too easy to forget to pause and look around to count our blessings.

The simple act of gratitude holds an incredible power that can positively impact others, and ourselves as well!  Gratitude is a mindset, it’s a way of looking at the world with appreciation, sometimes regardless of circumstance. 
When we focus on what we are thankful for, our perspective shifts, it’s a great antidote for negativity bias. 

Incorporating gratitude for me, is in the little things.  I love sending Thank You notes to people, my team shares wins every week, my teams awards 'recognition' weekly by lifting up one team member and sharing why they are thankful for them, I journal and write daily things I am thankful for, I write letters to my kids, I send an uplifting text – these are such simple ways to bring gratitude into your daily life…and the compound effect makes a difference.

Gratitude invites us to pause, and to be present, and for me most often is others focused rather than falling into "Me" culture.  This past year I have worked hard to not buy into the cultural ‘hustle’ mindset and practicing gratitude in the pause fosters a deep sense of connection.

I encourage you to nurture an attitude of appreciation and gratitude, not just during Thanksgiving, but as a way of life, no matter who you are or what your circumstances are – we all have something to be thankful for!

B.

The word ‘culture’ has become a buzzword! 

Don’t get me wrong, culture is something I am passionate about, it’s one of the reasons I started Aspire!   I think there is great power in shared values and a collective identity.

As our workplaces evolve, talking about culture and modern-day leadership is important.  I believe that we can define culture as the shared values, beliefs, customs, and behaviors of an organization.  It’s invisible but oddly tangible.  Culture influences individual and team behavior.

Here is where I see culture get complicated – culture is not open workplaces, with ping pong tables and nap pods and Starbucks on tab!  I think when some look at culture as simply a fun environment, we are missing the mark, this is a shallow version of culture.  

I see my role as a leader to have a well-defined culture, so everyone is clear on the expectations of who we are and what we do. I see my role as a leader to protect a culture that we have set.  I believe in empowering my team in many ways, but especially when it comes to collaborating and innovating together.  All the above takes trust and vulnerability, I need to protect the environment so that can flow. 

One of the ultimate keys in culture is a leader who is willing to make hard choices to protect the culture.  This is where the rubber meets the road.  I have had a variety of experiences over the years, some really fortifying, where I chose boldly to protect our culture.  Because who are we really if we SAY who we are but the decisions as a leader are not congruent with our words – it’s a way to lose your team’s trust and confidence. 

Years ago, we had what I would describe as a Toxic ‘A’ player on our team, this person was so great with clients, very technically sound, and a ‘hard’ worker…. you know where the problem was?  This Toxic ‘A’ was bad for and to their team!  I believe we coach in private and praise in public, the behavior was addressed multiple times and in multiple ways privately, and nothing changed.  This person was released back into the workforce, it’s the healthiest decision for all involved.  There is no ‘I” in team and team is one of our Core Values!  This was a scary decision; it stretched me as a leader to release someone who clients loved but was poisoning the culture.  Want to know what happened?  Our team cohesion increased 10-fold, we saw an influx of growth, I could identify my team realized I had it in me to make hard choices and their trust in my leadership increased.  We flourished!

There are other examples but I will spare you the details, the take away is, holding onto a strong and healthy culture takes a leader with grit, it’s not for the faint at heart!
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Be gritty,
B.