September 25 is always a bitter sweet date for my siblings and I. It’s the day that my parents entered the world, one year apart. After my mom lost her battle with cancer, September 25 began to take me on an emotional rollercoaster. In one moment I’m extremely grateful for the amazing parents I have and I feel happy and blessed. In another I feel my mom’s loss heavily, mourn her death and think about how much different and better my life would be if she was still here. One of the greatest lessons I learned from her death is that though it may be painful and challenging, life goes on. In that spirit, my siblings and I were fortunate enough to plan a trip to Denver, CO to celebrate with my dad. Below are my favorite experiences from our short trip in Colorado.
Read More5 Tips to use and maximize work breaks /
During my retail career and my time at United Way, social media was an escape from work, and I often turned to one of the many apps during my breaks. Now that I’ve transitioned to my current position at TGR Foundation writing and social media are major functions of my role, and now I need an escape from them.
There have been many studies and experts who attest to the need for breaks during the day, not to mention the right granted by law. Everyone who works a 40-hour work week should take a minimum of three breaks during the day including two paid rest breaks and one meal break lasting 30 minutes to an hour. While these periods and the time granted vary across different states, companies and organizations, there is usually a similar standard. See your employee handbook or the state labor and employment guidelines for specifics. Below are some activities to clear your mind, maximize your time and achieve productivity on your next break that have worked for me; walks and word puzzles are two of my favorites.
Read MoreJasmine's Journey: Fighting for life, against cancer /
Throughout my time volunteering with the American Cancer Society and participating in Relay For Life Events, I’ve heard many inspiring stories. Earlier this year I joined the Event Leadership Team (ELT) of the largest Relay For Life in Orange County and had the opportunity share one during the Luminaria Ceremony.
Soon after I accepted a new role on the ELT and began preparing for the 2020 event to be held on June 6-7. Our event site and my fundraising page went live earlier today. My goal is to raise $10 for each year my mom lived before losing her battle with cancer. Please make a donation and join me in the fight against the terrible disease that takes lives too soon every day, while remembering those we love. Every cent counts, and I’m extremely grateful in advance for your support. More information on the organization and why I support it can be found here and my full speech is shown below. As always I’m always thrilled to see questions and feedback in the comments.
Read MoreReal World Recipe: How to use a planner to build and maintain work-life harmony /
Work-life has been extremely busy yet rewarding over the last several weeks. My to-do list continues to grow and my calendar consistently fills with new events, celebrations and appointments. As I returned from a staff retreat in Washington D.C. last week and reflected on my notes I came across a quote that I highlighted from one of the presentations.
“Find harmony instead of balance.”
General Trent Edwards
After reading that quote I began to think about my life and how to create harmony while managing a hectic schedule. Then I remembered my experience as a student and rested on a recipe for success.
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