Little Lessons in Life

You are naive if you believe life is going to be perfect all the time. Sometimes life throws curve balls and we have to learn how to hit a home run instead of strike out. I have recently experienced some intense situations in my life. Some I dealt with fairly easily, whileothers have taken me much longer to understand. In the past few years, I have had to learn to remove the negative energy and excuses for why things may be tough and revert it into positive energy and life lessons.

Little Life Lessons

1.  LOVE your family and friends. Don’t just tell them, show them. Take the 2 hour trip to visit your boring grandmother, or call your mom and listen to how tough her day was at work. The people you call family and friends are there for you, so show them how special they are to you. Our days are numbered, and I, personally want my parents, siblings, nieces, friends, etc. to know how important they are to me. We are all busy, but even if you take 10 minutes out of your day to call up someone in your family you haven’t spoken to in a while, or a friend you went to school with, just to see how they are doing and let them know how important they are to you can truly make a person’s day. I know this because, it makes my day when the phone rings and I hear my sweet nieces, or silly sister’s voice on the other end.

2. Don’t let RELATIONSHIPS consume you. I feel as if some people get too comfortable in relationships. I’m not knocking the idea of love but be sure to be able to love yourself prior to loving another person. If you are honest with yourself and aren’t happy some times as hard as it may be, you have to end the relationship for not only you but also the other person. I recently ended a pretty lengthy relationship due to the fact that I felt as if it consumed me and hindered my future progress as an individual. There was no “cheating”,  I didn’t “hate” him, and there was no major fight to end things. I simply felt my heart wasn’t in it nor was it fair to keep someone in my life because I was “comfortable”. It’s ok sometimes to be uncomfortable for a moment to get your focus where it needs to be. I believe one of the main reasons it has been a mental challenge for him to move on is because he felt as if I was his life. He was an amazing person who no doubt loved me dearly but when things ended, it was difficult for him to stand on his own two feet which in turn made it more difficult for him to move forward.

3. Learn to be INDEPENDENT. I have been pretty blessed to have both a  supportive and encouraging family. My parents have taught me the importance of valuing what you have and hard work. These lessons have molded me into being an independent person. I like being on my own and not asking approval before doing what I want to do. I’m an adult who works hard therefore everything I have done and things I’ve experienced are because I worked for them. I take care of myself and my dog and at the end of the day that’s all I am responsible for. Of course I have had financial set backs, but luckily I have a great support system who will help me get back on track when I may struggle, but I find it important for people to be able to do things for themselves. I think some people may fear being uncomfortable and never learn to do things for themselves.

4. Be MINDFUL of who you let in. Certain people, for example, your family and friends, of course you are going to talk to  about certain things going on in your life, but not everyone you meet needs to know about your personal issues. Some people talk too much while others don’t talk enough. I am very out going and hang out with a lot of people but at the same time, I don’t let certain people I hang out with know too much about me. It’s not that I am being mean or sneaky, it’s because I have learned that people have to earn the right to get to know me. I have let a lot of people in, especially in my early 20s that I should have never talked to or considered a friend. It happens. Some people change while others were never true.  Humans, not all but some, are jealous creatures. Some people hate to see other people doing well, but that shouldn’t stop you from allowing those who do want you to succeed be a part of your experiences.

5. Be APPRECIATIVE. No matter how tough something is don’t forget to appreciate all of the good in your life. Whether it be the sun shining  on a summer day or a  job promotion, never forget how lucky you are to have what you have!

How’s that for Service?

American society has molded individuals to believe having a certain job title or holding a certain position within a company determines a person’s educational or personal value. I’m 28 years old and I’ve had many different positions in many different industries. I’ve worked in a crucial position within a local pharmaceutical distribution, an advertising agency, and other jobs post college that have taught me an incredible amount of things but why? Yes, money is the answer, but not anymore. I’m going to continue to work at my dreams of  becoming a writer while I work as a waitress. Yes, a waitress. I’m sorry if that may not be what American culture adopts as a “good” job, but it’s what I do. I work as a waitress and occasional hostess at a local sushi bar in a cute area of Fort Mill, SC called Akahana Asia Bistro.  I love it. The food is amazing, my coworkers and managers are awesome to work with, and it’s cash in hand daily. I may not punch a time clock from 9-5 every day but I work, and I enjoy what I do.

I’ve heard people say that servers are uneducated. That is far from accurate. I have a college degree from a 4 year university. I choose to work as a waitress while I work on my dream of  becoming a self-made freelance writer. Many of my coworkers are working now towards their education. Others are working towards personal goals similar to myself in writing  whether it be music, painting, or management within the restaurant.  It’s not “uneducated” or “stupid” to work hard for something that you truely enjoy doing and you are good at. Too many people in America are working their asses off in “corporate” America just for the simple fact that that’s what society has brainwashed them into thinking that’s what they are suppose to be doing.

The point in this blog is to open your minds up to what you are capable of doing. Don’t conform to society do what you want and love doing in order to get to your dreams.

Growing Up and Bucket Lists

This Saturday is my 28th birthday! For me, the past 8 years have taught me a lot. I have changed from a young carless  party girl to a caring professional  young woman. I feel like the 20s  have molded me into the person I truly am.  Although, I am proud of who I’ve evolved into, there are still a couple things that I’d like to do while I’m still in my 20s.

20 Things to Do While I’m Still in My 20s

1. PRAY more.
2. Land a CAREER that allows me to live comfortably.
3. READ more books.
4. Be more ACTIVE.
5. Spend more time with my FAMILY.
6. Get out of DEBT.
7. TRAVEL more.
8. Watch less TV. 
9. CUSS less.
10. INVEST.
11. MOVE into a house with a back yard.
12. COOK new recipes.
13. Get another PUPPY.
14. Get PUBLISHED.
15. Expand my MARY KAY business.
16. COMMUNICATE better when upset.
17. Become more CRAFTY. 
18. DONATE to cause I’m passionate about.
19. Become more PATIENT.  
20. SKYDIVE. 

GOD, FAMILY, CAREER

One of the main reasons I value the Mary Kay company is the principle of its foundation. Mary Kay Ash (the founder of Mary Kay cosmetics) believed the company should be structured with 3 of the most important contributors of life– God first, family second, career third. And I couldn’t agree more!

Without God there is nothing. I truly believe that God is my savior. I have committed myself to The Lord and feel his power within me daily. He is always on time. Sometimes we lose sight of the many blessings he has given us, and one of the blessings for me has been the Mary Kay opportunity.

Secondly is family. I could write an entire book on my family. They are my number one support system as well as some of my very best friends. My family has gone over and beyond to ensure my safety, education, and overall well being is never in jeopardy. I was adopted as a baby by my mother and father who shortly after divorced. Most people would be sad–not me. I now have two sets of amazing parents, two outstanding siblings, a beautiful sister in law, and the cutest nieces in the whole world–literally they are adorable. My mom kinda laughed at the idea of me selling Mary Kay 3 months ago but now that she has seen my success in just a few short months her idea has completely changed. She praises me often for my work ethic and drive to succeed. About a month ago she actually said to me, “Avyn you should really consider cosmetology school. I think you’d do great. You are really well at making people look and feel beautiful.”That was quite the compliment coming from someone recently questioned my decision to work for Mary Kay. My family and I have grown tremendously in the past few years and I count my blessings daily for the love and support of them.

We work we pay bills–repeat…repeat…repeat. That has been my mind set of adulthood since college graduation. Don’t get me wrong I have worked for some great companies and learned from some of the best management teams I’m the Carolinas, but nothing I can whole heartedly say I was 100% passionate about. Well working as a Mary Kay consultant has helped me help others and as I always say no amount of money can compare to that feeling. I love working my own schedule and providing my honest advice and feedback on the products and services I offer. Today, I actually received a phone call that changed my life. Not only am I a Mary Kay independent sales consultant, I have also been hired at a local medical group as the sales and marketing coordinator! I think a mix of my education and my dedication to providing top of the line customer service and social media updates for my Mary Kay business were a leading deciding factor in me working for the practice.

Having said that, I’m not trying to persuade you religiously or career wise, I’m simply saying this structure has been an extremely rewarding concept in me personally. Enjoy your life, love your family, and continuously believe and all things are possible.

A Beautiful Opportunity

About 3 months ago a very good friend of mine, Apple, had meet me at Starbucks with her and her Mary Kay director Crystal. I went in there thinking I would just listen and help get Apple some brownie points with the company. Well I did not only helped out Apple but I also–signed up to sell Mary Kay. I didn’t know what the heck I was doing but it sounded like an amazing opportunity. I never wore make up and to be brutally honest thought the whole idea of selling Mary Kay was a little cheesy. Well, let me be the one to testify, I LOVE SELLING MARY KAY COSMETICS! Both Apple and Crystal have been amazing mentors for me. They are extremely encouraging and supportive. I text them all the time randomly about goals I’ve reached and new customers I’ve met. They constantly praise my dedication and approach to the Mary Kay way. I am the type of person who deeply enjoys making  people feel pretty. I love empowering people who may need some encouragement or a boost of confidence.  I believe  my own person attributes and the Mary Kay structure–God first, Family second, Career third, has definitely helped me grow both spiritually and professionally. It is an amazing feeling to help educate people on the Mary Kay products while making them feel beautiful! If you or someone you know is in need of any Mary Kay products feel free to email me directly at arhodes733@marykay.com. I able to accept cash, check, or credit card and will ship products for FREE! For the most recent updates and specials, like my Facebook page: MaryKayWithA or read my blog MaryKayWithA.wordpress.com! Thanks for all of the support!

Snip and Clip

Let’s face it guys– our economy is not at its best. Although the job rate is slowly back on the climb, employers are not able to offer the compensation they once were. It’s not that they necessarily don’t think candidates don’t deserve it, it’s that many internal costs of running a business has also increased. It is not easy to run a business especially with the issues our economy is facing.

Well this blog is not going to find you a job or give you the winning lottery numbers but, it should help you manage to save some money while shopping for your families essentials. We’ve all seen the shows and heard the stories of the people who spend close to nothing on a whole month’s worth of groceries. I was a bit hesitant about this whole couponing idea until I saw how easy it was to do.

I’m not going to sit here and say it is easy to because it does take work and patience (which I am working on). About a month ago I got a Sunday paper and collected the coupons, then continued just about each week following. All I did was check the sales papers for the  two local grocery stores and made lists of what was on sale and looked for a coupon. Everyone has their own system but that is mine. I ended up spending $50 on $120 worth of groceries at Harris Teeter. SCORE!!! I also look through to find good prices to local restaurants, stores, and entertainment on groupon.com. We got concert tickets for $22 a piece! Can’t beat that. It can be a little time consuming but trust me you and your bank account will definitely appreciate it. Happy Couponing!

All You Magazine has some great tips for people who are interested in couponing and need some ideas on where to start. http://www.allyou.com/coupons-deals/easy-couponing-00400000061681/

A Blessing In Disguise

Well guys, since the last time I have really been active in my blog, I have been faced with some disappointing, yet exciting life changing news. I was laid off in mid June from my position at the Advertising Agency. I was faced with a situation that turned my whole world upside down. I was let go, left with many unanswered questions and a stress I was not yet  ready to be faced with regarding my financial obligations that come along with being a single woman living alone. Every day for the past month I have searched almost every career site online, networked with all possible people who could aid in full-time positions, and was even  faced with attempting to do something I never in my life thought I’d do– file for unemployment. I knew the economy was bad but didn’t think I would ever be affected by it. I mean, I have been working since I was 15 years old, and who wouldn’t want a motivated woman with a Bachelor’s Degree wanting nothing more than to work. I was depressed, stressed, and in a bind I couldn’t see past. Well, I finally had my appointment to get my unemployment filed and the lady speaking with me advised to wait another week to make a  higher income due to the new quarter. Patience is something I struggle with, however, I took her advice. I impatiently waited for the date to arrive in which I could jump on this chance to continue to have a small sum of money coming in until I could get back on track with a real job. Well, 2 days before taking that embarrassing, yet necessary drive to the unemployment office, I got a phone call that changed my life. “Can you meet with me today at 2,?” the lady on the other end of the phone said. Needless to say 2 interviews, a background check, and a phone call later I was offered a position in the Animal Health industry!  Although this is somethingI never imagined doing, I started my job on July 9th  and couldn’t be happier! The challenge, the opportunity as well as the job stability is something in my career I have never been able to say I had. I went from making a lousy hourly salary to making a decent salaried pay check. I will be getting a raise next month and I am constantly being praised for my hard work, my ability to work well with others, and promises of growing into a management, higher paying position. This is a job that I truly feel is my career. No more jobs to pay bills or something to get by temporarily. This is my new life, this is my new world, and this is something I am proud to say I am a part of. So to those of you who are having a hard time in this economic crisis I say this–do not underestimate your talents and skills due to the fact one person turns their cheek on you. There are plenty of opportunities to work, you just have to be willing to learn and adjust to things you may not be used to. Stay focus, and always remember somethings turn out to be blessings in disguise.

Work Hard, Live Easier

So my life has changed dramatically since my last blog entry. By changing dramatically I mean I GOT LAID OFF 😦 Everyone says to me, “it’s the economy” or “many companies are cutting back.” That’s all fine but at the end of the day, it doesn’t pay my bills. I live alone which means I am responsible for EVERYTHING financially in my life.  I could sit here and complain about how stressed out I am but the truth is at the end of the day,  there is no point. I look at this as a new chapter of my life and a chance to utiize the skills I’ve acquired in a new career. There is a saying “all good things come to those who wait.” Well guess what? I’m waiting patiently. So to those who have been affected negatively by the economy I want you to keep in mind, sitting on your behind will not help you succeed. Get active, knock on doors, network, and most importantly, keep a positive attitude because you WILL find something!

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN LOOKING FOR A NEW JOB

1. Always keep your resume updated and error free. Your resume is how an employer gets to know you before actually meeting you.

2. Have a cover letter. Sending a cover letter can set you aside from other candidates. It shows that you took the extra step and are serious about wanting to work.

3. Dress to impress. Once you have been given the opportunity to meet with management, don’t blow it by looking like a slob. Always dress business professional.

4. Be yourself. Sometimes meeting potential employers can be intimitdaing. Employers know you know are nervous, no need to tell them. Be confident and show a little of your personalty. Don’t be scared to ask any questions. And don’t forget to bring your portfolio to showcase your work.

5. Mind your manners. Be sure to not only thank the people who interview you in person but also follow up with a thank you letter or email. This ensures that they don’t forget about you and know you mean business.

6. AND ALWAYS STAY POSITIVE!!!!

Want to make a good first impression? Below are some ideas for men and women on what is appropriate for interviews!

International Day of Families

Ever heard of family day? Neither have I…until today! May 15th is a date in which countries of the United  Nations observe International Day of Families. Dating back to May 15, 1995, the International Day of Families is a day in which people of the UN focus on the importance of balancing work and family. Specifically, it stresses the significance  in financially and emotionally contributions of workers to their families while  consistently adding to the growth of the society. Celebrations include workshops, meetings, and campaigns focused on the strength of family support systems. Although here in a America this is nothing we celebrate, I think it is very important for all working professionals to keep in mind how lucky we are to have careers and families. It is important to always keep a tight balance of the two and continuously strengthen our efforts to grow in both aspects of our lives.

Wait For It…

Being  a single woman, living alone can be challenging. There are times  I wonder if I will ever get the nice house, car, and other luxuries that I yearn for. Then I stop and remind myself to  BE PATIENT! My father came from nothing at all. Growing up, he lived in an overcrowded 2 bedroom house in North Carolina. His parents were far from rich. They scraped by to support and raise 3 young boys. After going to the military and finishing college he was able  to become an extremely successful pharmaceutial  sales rep. He became a man who didn’t not want for much by the time he was in his late 20s. This would have been nearly impossible if he hadn’t had patience and determination.  Because of this he has  earned the lifestyle in which he can enjoy  nice trips and send his 3 children to college. If that isn’t encouragement I don’t know what is. So I say this to all those who think things will never look up…be patient. If you want it bad enough you can get it. It may take time, but you’ll get there. I never thought I would graduate college, but I did! I never thought I’d live in my own apartment but I do. I never thought I would work a 9-5  job but I do. There are so many things I am thankful for and I know with patience  the other good things will come. Today is the first day of the rest of your  life,  stay focused on your dreams, be patient, and I can promise your dreams will true.