Every weekday, I workout.

This time last year, I couldn't even do one sit up.

Now, I crush 200 sit ups every weekday (Monday through Friday) along with a 30 or 45 minute workout.

The funny thing is...that I didn't wake up one day and say to myself "Self...let's do 200 sit ups today."

However, I did wake up one day at the beginning of this year with a desire to look and feel better and get physically stronger.

You see...my husband, Ty, exercises consistently.

One day, I heard him watching a video (on YouTube) while working out.

I noticed the video had intense, more challenging exercises along with beginner modifications. Some workouts were short while others were longer.

I was intrigued and decided to try it.

And, I really liked it!

I started working out with my husband every weekday. We created a habit of exercising, encouraging each other, supporting one...

Life isn’t always the way we want it to be.

All we have to do is to glance at the headlines to see that we live in very uncertain times. The job we thought was safe might not be there tomorrow. There seems to be a disruption or natural disaster somewhere. And, there are people who choose to be more callous than kind.

It’s easy to get caught up in a negative spiral of doubt and anxiety.

How do you stay hopeful and positive, when you see negative messages and fear all around you?

Here are 3 ways to stay hopeful during tough times:

Be here now

By focusing on the present, you will find it easier to take a step back and act as an observer. By practicing mindfulness, you can enjoy the simple things in life, no matter how bad things may seem. Worries and fears of the unknown can dissipate if you focus on the present.  Look for things in your life for which you're grateful.

Look for ways to show compassion

Spreading hope...

 If you’ve been wondering how to continue making pivots in your business (and do it in a weekend), then, you’re gonna love hearing from my special guest.

In March, she planned to host a live event in Atlanta that she cancelled two weeks beforehand as the global pandemic took the stage.

Natolie Warren is an International Speaker, Author, and Visibility & Mindset Coach who realized a bigger vision in the midst of having to make a shift in hosting her annual summit.

She went from kicking and screaming (can you relate??) to adjusting and pivoting to create a virtual event for her audience. She noticed a need for conference attendees to deeply connect with each other and implement their learning while they are in the room getting support.

In my candid conversation with Natolie, I asked about her experience and how we can up level our businesses in a weekend.

Natolie has authored two...

High achievers – in both the online world and in the corporate world – generally have positive attitudes, know how to take action, and know how to ask for help. They’re not afraid to bring in experts to help them improve their leadership and development skills.

Taking action is not necessarily an inborn trait but it’s certainly a skill that can be learned. High achievers don’t reach their level of success by overthinking their business plans or by waiting for opportunities to present themselves. Those are quick ways to stall your business.

High Achievers Develop Confidence

High achievers learn to develop the confidence to make smart decisions and take action without overthinking or asking for approval. Developing that confidence is something a coach can help their clients achieve.

Knowing one’s limits and knowing when to ask for help are evident when a high achiever decides to hire a coach or an employee. They know they need help; they see...

Celebrating your accomplishments may increase your joy and happiness.

Here are 8 powerful ways to celebrate your wins today:

• Write them down

• Do something fun

• Share them with your confidant

• Buy something special

• Pay it forward (show someone how you did it or do it for them - act of kindness)

• Dance it out

• Sing out loud

• Smile until your cheeks hurts

What will you celebrate today?

I’d love to hear about it.

Celebrating your wins,

Dena Patrice

If you're struggling to get focused and stay focused. Let's talk.

The journey of becoming a business owner is unique.

In honor of Women’s Month, we're shedding our business spotlight on Gran Cee Handbags & Accessories.

Sharryn Harewood, Founder and Owner of Gran Cee Handbags & Accessories, carefully hand-picks timeless items to become a part of your story.

“Gran Cee is committed to carrying selections for every b-o-d-y, no matter size, age, or personal taste. All women deserve to feel special, confident and able to ‘Shop Your Style’.”

Sharryn recently hosted a successful, exquisite spring pop up boutique at the Hotel Indigo in Vinings, Georgia. When you spend time with Sharryn, you'll receive a loving, personal touch that leaves you wanting more. And, when you purchase a timeless handbag and/or accessory, you'll accentuate your authenticity.

What inspires Sharryn?

Growing up in New York, Sharryn observed, discovered and embraced the gift of adding stunning accessories to a woman’s entire look from her...

You are a business. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, a business owner or investor. You’re in the business of creating what you want and how you want to influence and impact others.

Life is happening right now. We receive 24 hours a day. There are times when we’re leading our day and other times when life experiences are leading us. You inspire others when you’re focused on your vision, setting intentions and living your purpose.

You matter. Whether you’re touching one person or one hundred people with your mission, message and money.

Being bold implies taking actions despite risks, obstacles and opposing forces.

If you want to skyrocket your business success, consider the following habits.

7 Habits of Bold Business Owners

#1 – They stay in alignment with their vision

Visioning is the process of creating a picture in your mind of what you want. This includes all aspects of your life – health, finances, relationship, career and much...