Category: Love Notes

Realizations and a really, really remarkable”before” picture

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Do you ever have those conversations with friends when all of a sudden, WHAM….something just crazy triggers in your mind and you are like, “Why didn’t I realize that before?!” Maybe it’s the fact that we are so present over other times and the thoughts are able to come pouring in, or perhaps it is just the right time. Recently, I was chatting with some friends and answering questions about what I do and WHY I was hit with so many realizations and I had to share one of them, right here.

In addition to being an Event Manager by trade and on the road about 10 months out of the year, I am also a Consultant with Rodan + Fields.

I was NOT looking for an opportunity by any means when I found Rodan + Fields, I was looking for a possible solution, that’s it.

I had just gotten off of the phone with my Momma who was wrapping up with her 36th radiation treatment and she was and IS doing amazing. She never, ever complained about a thing and was going to hop on a plane right after her last treatment to celebrate her granddaughter’s first birthday. She did mention to me that she could really tell where on her skin all of the treatment was focused and while she was trying many things, there was still a redness and sensitive area that was visible and just not improving at ALL with anything she tried. I hung up the phone and I thought to myself, surely after all this woman has gone through I can find something to help with this concern. So, I went to Google and started searching.  I then remembered seeing a B & A on my sister’s friends FB page. I reached out to her, asked what it was and for some info. Then, naturally, I proceeded to do my own research, because that’s what I do! ?

I wanted to find out who these Rodan + Fields people were… Well, yes, they certainly checked out and quite impressively I may add. I discovered they were the Drs. Who created Proactiv and so much more. At that point, I knew what I was sending my Mom was from a trusted and credible source, not some fake company with jenky cream. I sent it to her and asked that she use it while in AZ.

As many of us know, life is busy and gets even busier when visiting family, so we really didn’t get to catch up full on until about 2 weeks later.

She called me, was standing in the shower with a towel wrapped around her and said, “I cannot even tell where the treatment area was. All of the redness & irritation is gone.”  My heart swelled with happiness and my eyes with tears. All I wanted to do was take away one less thing for her to worry about after all she had been through – and it worked. ❣️ Then, I started thinking….what if I could connect people with these products to do the same thing for them?! I mean, why should anyone have to go through more than they need to when solutions exist, right? In all honesty I am a 99 potential solution girl, not 99 problems. ?

At that exact moment, for the first time in my life I was struggling with Cystic Acne. Utterly embarrassed, I kept thinking I had no idea where it came from and had no idea why, but clearly looking back now, I was in complete denial of what was happening in my life.

I was in the midst of figuring out what went wrong with LASIK eye surgery in not one, but BOTH eyes permanently damaging my corneas, my Momma was rocking through battling breast cancer, but I wanted to be there to help her as much as possible AND for the first time in my life I walked away from a project that was NOT what I thought it was going be and put me in a really bad spot, jeopardizing what I believed in. As a Freelancer, that also means consciously walking away from a paycheck, without another solid contract – but for me, choosing integrity was the right choice. Alllll while trying to remain calm as Crohn’s Disease thrives on stress!!!  Ha, and I was wondering WHY my face was a wreck!

Eyiyi….I had been dealing with this for a solid 8 months at this point.

So, I ordered the line for acne and let me be really clear here (no pun intended;-)), it was not overnight, but over time the Cystic acne became less, it felt less painful, started to clear up, the redness began to diminish and even a little glow in my complexion started to come out. Soon, I wasn’t subconscious about wearing a pony tail or messy bun any longer and before I knew it, I was Cystic – acne free all with no drugs, no prescriptions…just skincare that was made to work with each product creating real results. I was floored. Now, reality check here, I was never ever the girl with gorgeous porcelain skin, I was way too much of a sun goddess ☀️ — but wow oh wow have I ever improved my skin to literally have the best skin of my life, no messy foundation all in my mid – 30’s and here on out! I can’t even imagine what it would look like now if I didn’t try….or 20 years from now.

? So, as I am talking with my friends this weekend I realized I am so, so grateful for being open to trying something new and finding the patience to persevere that lead to not only a solution, but a beautiful restoration of confidence and a desire to help others. I have always held myself to the standard that if I don’t love something, I won’t do it, I won’t back it (hence the quitting reference up above) and I sure as hell won’t be connected to it, that is a promise I intend to keep in all things life. ❣️

Truly, if you are curious about what R + F can do for you, and that is as simple as just being great skin care, (you don’t need any major concerns) that improves the health and future condition of your skin without wasting money on stuff that just doesn’t work, we should chat. Please do reach out. I would love to listen and see how I can help. ?

If you want to help to reach others who need a solution, feel free to show some love and share, comment, love and tag on this post. ?? Together, we are better. ?

Discover your customized regimen for your skin by answering just a few questions – and be sure to include your email address so I can send you a thank – you mini facial! Solution Tool – Click Here

Keep on being AWESOME!!

XX

~ Renee

The MOST Powerful Tool to Success that YOU OWN

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Regardless of where I am, one part of my morning routine is setting aside a little bit of time to get my mind right. Seriously!  But, it wasn’t always that way….
I used to think my morning work – out was enough, but it turns out conditioning the mind is just as important as conditioning the body. For me, I choose to write it out. I have always found such power in writing out exactly what I want in terms of my goals, desires, new adventures, relationships, everything – right down to the final detail. If you read my post about Cravings, you know what I am talking about. As life happens, sometimes it is hard to stay to committed to just a few minutes a day, but it really is a game changer in the outcome of so many things, especially personal growth. Soooo….maybe writing isn’t your thing, that is OK, mindset work is not a one – size fits all type of thing. For some, simply speaking out loud is enough, reading, listening to a podcast or catching a video from a mentor or leader is enough to condition & strengthen your mind on a daily basis.  The power behind the action really sets the intention and tone for the day. The important thing to remember and that is the absolute necessity is to chose what you want to do and do. it. daily. ✨
If you have ever trained for an endurance event or even a 5K, tri, bi – Athlon, etc., you understand muscle memory and what if feels like to condition the body. One just can’t expect to roll out of bed and bust out 26.2 miles without preparing first. The prep work is what challenges the body to build a strong foundation and continues to grow stronger with every work – out, with every day you stay committed, with literally every action of the way. There is SO much to be said about the process. I tend to think of the mind with the same concept. It is a muscle that needs to be worked to keep expanding, to continue to think broader & deeper. It is absolutely normal to have negative thoughts daily, actually it is more common than to just have positive thoughts swarming in, at first. With time and conditioning, those thoughts, the thoughts we all have the choice to control become stronger and more empowering. We are adaptable as humans and can quickly learn how to recognize a negative thought and that’s it, move forward, let it go. If we choose to stay in it, to dwell in the negativity, it only spews over to other areas in our life and literally infects everything we do, say, and react to like a horrible virus.
One of my amazing mentors, Olivia Charlet has taught me so much about mindset and the absolute power we do have over those thoughts. She is a mindset Coach among many other things and is absolutely incredible. So what are a few things you can start to do today to shift your mindset and begin to condition it….

10 Ways to Condition Your Mindset, NOW

1. Make a choice from this point forward that for every dis-empowering thought you have (ie. I’m not good enough, I can never do that, I will never be that successful, I am so messy, bad things always happen to me) you promise to acknowledge the thought / feeling and release it. This is the catch though, when you release it, replace it with an empowering thought (ie,  I AM good enough and resourceful enough to do “X”, I have everything I need in ME to be successful, I choose from this point forward to believe positive, amazing things happen to me all of the time). It may feel strange or awkward at first, but stay committed, daily. It will eventually feel SO natural, SO empowering and be aware of the change in your life as the positive mindset unfolds.
2. Set a few alarms daily and put a title on them. Mine is labeled, Tap into the energy of trust. No pressure, no stress, just trust. This reminds me that at all moments, I am exactly where I need to be and need to trust the process instead of trying to control it. When the alarm goes off, stop, assess where you are in your day and if your mind is not strong, empowering & positive, shift your thinking. Doing this daily will help to condition your mind to stay on track. Pick a tone you like, not an annoying one. 😉
3. Write out daily affirmations on post – its, your screen saver, your calendar reminders about how freaking amazing you actually ARE.
4. Set a time to decompress at the end of the day. Again, whether your choice of tool is to journal, meditate, or just verbally let go of the challenges of the day, clear your mind, clear the slate and celebrate your small wins for the day. Then, sweet dreams.
5. Make a vision board. Virtual or / and tangible. Have fun with it. Put things on it that you have ALWAYS wanted to do, achieve, see, accomplish. Make it come to life by owning it and look at it daily. Let your creativity out, NO BOUNDARIES! Let go of the HOW!
6. Don’t quit. When you make the choice to condition your mindset, keep with it. Like anything at first, growth, training, change can be a little uncomfortable at first. But hang in there, without that phase we would never appreciate the change as much as do on the other side. Even if it is just for two minutes of mindset work, some days — stay with it. You will thank yourself.
7. Be proud of every single choice you make to deal with a situation in a positive light. Life can throw some major curve balls at us, daily. One of the best surprises I got from doing this work is actually how much easier it is to deal with things that challenge me, daily, on every level.
8. Take it minute by minute. Just because your day started off great in the morning, went completely haywire by lunch — reset. This is the time you really strengthen that muscle during the most crazy of times. Reign it in, reset, regain control of your thoughts and own it.
9. It really comes down to two choices. You can let your thoughts run wild, get away from you and just randomly happen and you can respond OR you can choose how you think about things in a more empowering way and react accordingly.
10. Life is short — choose happiness. Surround yourself by people who support you and who you love to support. We have one book of life and you get to write the chapters, daily.
While we cannot control everything, we can control and choose our thoughts that are a DIRECT result in our actions & reactions. Does this mean some mornings are crazy early, absolutely, but it is so worth it. ?
Know of someone who would appreciate this article?
Share away and comment below! I am so glad you are here!
You’ve got this!
xx

What Happens When You Truly Listen to Your Cravings?

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Can you think of a time you followed your cravings? Like really, full – on, with-out a doubt, even if it didn’t make sense at the time? How did it feel to take the leap and follow what you really wanted to do? Freeing, exhilarating, maybe even a bit crazy, but just. so right….

Chances are if you are here reading this post you may have come over from my LinkedIn page and are getting a few more details other than what’s on my profile page. Or, maybe you were clicking around and wound up here. Either way, welcome & I am happy you are here.

Cont’d from LinkediN….

Creative leader who believes in following your cravings, the path that leads to what you truly want to do, regardless of it makes sense or not at this exact moment.

My mentality has always been such that you spend so many hours a day working over a course of many years that it should be something you actually WANT to do, right?  I enjoy serving & helping people in a way that makes them feel happy and unstoppable.  Because, why NOT? I truly believe that you CAN have whatever it is that you set your mind & heart on, it’s the belief that is the true test.

A Snippet of My Story

After graduating college, I spent six months living & working in Australia. From there (like we all do) I grew from many challenges, rejections & failures and continue to do so daily. Upon returning to the States, working (3) jobs and doing the actual career search I kept tuning into that “inner whisper” that was telling me my dream career was out there.  The craziest part was that I remember turning down what would seem like the perfect opportunity for a new College grad, only ONE week into my search: great salary, benefits, full – time, around the house from my hometown. Seriously, a new grad’s dream offer. I was sitting in the parking lot of an Outlet Mall, getting ready to go in for my shift at an Amish Style Restaurant. My cell rang and I took the call, literally hanging onto every word, envisioning what my day, week and future might look like. It was the perfect fit, on paper, but my heart was screaming “NOOOO”  and before I knew it, the words were coming out of my mouth, and I politely declined the offer. The person on the line was stunned and I’m pretty sure that for a moment my heart stopped as I was processing what just happened, what I chose to do. You bet I had  an “Oh shit!” moment and then I let it go because I knew I was setting the tone for the rest of my important decision-making process that would happen over and over again in my life. Yes, in case you are wondering, that was an interesting decision to explain to my parents, but at the end of the day, it was my choice and I owned it.

Where to Now?

I honestly had no idea what the actual “title” was of what I was searching for, but I knew what I wanted, I could FEEL it.  I remember writing everything I wanted down on paper to the final detail and then finally, after what felt like was forever and a full-time job in itself (the J.O.B. search), I found the posting that fit every single one of my details. I couldn’t believe it. It turns out the Experiential Marketing world was where I wanted to be. I remember creating my CV & tailoring my resume just so, sending a digital and hard copy and closing my eyes, saying a little positive thought and kissing the envelope before I sent it away. Ohhh my word!!! I know, perhaps a bit much, but I was NOT holding back what so ever. The call came, they wanted to interview me, we went three rounds. Everything just felt right. Little did I know my phone was going to ring and the potential Company explained to me that as much as they LOVED me, they had to offer the position to someone in the office who needed field experience, but they would keep me in mind. Ok, not going to fib here, I was completely devastated but I completely understood and knew I would continue to persevere. The weekend came & went and Monday morning my phone rang again. It turns out the girl’s father worked for the competitor and that was too close of ties for the Client to be comfortable with…they offered me the position! Fast forward over 10 years now and I pinch myself because I have been traveling this beautiful Country managing, leading & creating interactive events that guests truly do get to walk away with an incredible experience and memories.  Trust me when I say this story is a lot more colorful when told in person, but hopefully, I have started to paint the picture.

Decision Time, Again

Having been fortunate enough to understand time freedom and what it truly feels like to follow your heart and love what you do, I made the decision to become a virtual business owner. As many times it does, the opportunity came unexpectedly, but I knew it was right for me. Personally, I consider myself among the  unique & bold others who have never worked a 9 – 5. It is a blessing, perhaps in disguise at first because I truly was able to understand what time freedom meant from a very young age. It’s like I have the choice to stay or go whenever I choose and work comes right along with me.

Life shouldn’t be taken for granted, we only know this exact moment in time. I have the privilege of coaching some of the most incredible people, who WANT to live life on their own terms, achieve success and keep dreaming bigger.

All of These Words for One Message…

Don’t give up one what you want to do, what you want to create, where you want to go. Keep going. Listen IN to those cravings, you have them for a reason, truly you do. It is amazing what happens when you trust yourself and follow your heart. Do it! This is YOUR life.  Do What YOU LOVE.

Connect with me via LinkedIn, FB, IG or email me at renebaus@gmail.com.

Oh and in case you haven’t told yourself yet, today; you ARE destined for amazing things in THIS life.

~ Renee

Virtual Capes

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If you could choose ONE, just ONE Super Hero to be for a day, who would it be and why? Try not to over think this, just jot down who pops into your head at first thought.

— For me, it was Wonder Woman, followed by Batman.  They’re both bad – ass, look out for the well-being of others are incredibly strong  and the one thing that really motivates & fuels me is that they  don’t ever give up and they SHOW UP because they know that people NEED them and they don’t want to let people down.

Not exactly Wonder Woman, but the absolute closest I ever came to flying!

Next up:

What is at least one superpower you have? And, don’t skip this one, you DO have a superpower, actually, most likely more than one. This is not the time to be humble. Maybe your superpower is that you are an incredible listener, super organized, hilarious or maybe you’re full of a beautiful energy. Whatever it is, it is YOURS’ no one elses’. Because, you see even if it is similar, they can’t do it just like you can.

–For me, I have a never-ending will of steel (some may call this stubborn) and I also happen to be extremely compassionate. Putting myself into the shoes of others comes very naturally to me.

Ok, now, make a quick visual & mental note – How are you sitting, standing, reading this blog post at this EXACT moment? What is your current body posture? Are you huddled over your computer, standing straight up or maybe sitting on a balance ball right now? How would you describe your body posture most of the day?

I promise this will make sense….

What if I told you that you could possibly change the outcome of a situation with a power pose?  Sounds too simple, right? That’s just it. As humans, we try to overcomplicate so many things when the basic, small shifts can lead to a much more desirable and positive outcome.  But wait, what exactly is a power pose? Think about the way your favorite super hero stands. Upright, chest sightly outward, arms on hips or even up in the air, opening up a little bit more. Those are all examples of a power pose.  Try it, stand up straight, take a deep breathe, close your eyes, exhale out and envision for about a minute exactly what you would like to happen.

This past fall, I had the honor of listening to a TED Talk by Amy Cuddy who shares the effect of a “power posing” and how simply changing your body language can truly impact the end result. She also got really vulnerable in her talk and shared how she pushed through re-gaining her once lost identity when she felt utterly and completely out of answers.  This is worth your time, I promise you! Watch Here

Make it a beautiful day and don’t forget your virtual cape on the way out of the door !

 

 

Just Being.

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Be Strong.

Be Thoughtful.

Be Authentic.

Be Genuine.

Be Courageous.

Be A Quiet Strength.

Be Supportive.

Be Forgiving.

Be Sensitive.

Be Bold.

Most Importantly, Just Be You.

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Because YOU have everything you need to be the very best version of yourself. Dig deep, don’t conform to blend and always be true to yourself – the rest will take care of itself. 😉

Here’s a quote one of my favorite Barre Instructor’s ends every one of her sessions with. It can also be found hanging in her studio – “You are STRONGER than you think you are & far more beautiful inside and out than you will probably ever realize. Namasté

Self Love is NOT Selfish

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#recharge zone

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Call it a recharge, alone time, daily meditation, call it what you will — just do it. I don’t know anyone who can give, give, give and not give to themselves, first. It is not selfish or self centered, it is actually necessary so you can give your best and more than you could ever imagine to the people, things & stuff that is important in your life.

My momma is a selfless lover & giver to everyone at anytime of the day, dropping anything she needed to fit more in. She never stopped to give to herself though and that didn’t go unnoticed by me. I have recognized and learned that if I allow my schedule to get too intense, I am being pulled in more ways possible and the sleep clock # keeps getting smaller, my life snowballs into a hot mess and I am good for nothing. I owe it to myself to do what I need to to be able to serve others at my very best and that doesn’t just happen. Instead of  saying “I don’t have time for anything for myself” while that all too often feels true, for sure, make. the.time. Set the alarm for 15 minutes earlier, stop for take out, let the house be dirty, pay a neighborhood kid to mow the lawn, create a carpool pick up. Get creative & do what you need to do, but make it happen, first for you and then watch and feel how much more present, energized & involved in their lives you are!

Self love is something especially woman struggle with. Sometimes we feel guilty for taking time for ourselves because it is taking away from time with the husband, kids, boyfriend, relatives, friends, career, whatever it may be. Crazy, but it is just the opposite, setting a little time aside for yourself is actually going to fuel your energy level and amp you up to be the best you can be for those very special people, I promise you!

Go on, I dare ya, try it for a week – a little time a day just for you and take notice of how you feel and how amazing your world becomes. 😉  Hell, start with just ONCE a week if once a day is too overwhelming to think about how to schedule. Oh and it doesn’t have to be hours on end, 20 minutes is a fantastic start, a monthly pedi, journaling, catching up with a good book or friend — whatever you need, listen and your gut will tell you!

Have a great week and be loved. 😉 green heart

xx

~ Renee

Your definition of “free”

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When you think of feeling & being  “free” what comes to mind? Don’t ponder the question, this is meant to be quick and easy. Being factual,  the word free means such different things to everyone.

For me, I love a good run. My boyfriend swears I was a puppy in my former life! I will get to a new location,  look around outside and be so excited to hit the pavement and get in some miles. I tend to get the same feeling when I am driving down the wide open road. There is just something about driving that frees my mind and spirit. In both scenarios my heart feels lighter, my thoughts flow effortlessly and I have such clarity. Lucky for me, my lifestyle involves a lot of driving and I choose to get out and run, a lot for my sanity and the peeps around me! 😉

So, if I asked you when you felt the most “free” how would you describe that feeling? How often do you get to feel that way? What can you do to create an environment that gave you more of what you loved?  These are important questions to dig deeper with – especially if you are feeling a little tug at your heart that you may want to listen closer to. Small changes make big differences.

Make your heart sing

Have a great week and feel free to let yourself breathe!

Much love,

~ Renee