Shannon Ables's Blog, page 326

Style Inspiration: Impressive Summer Style

With summer comes playful combinations, as well as options and pairings you may not consider during the other three months. Since stepping outside of your comfort zone is part of the game it seems, indulge in this season, have fun and experiment. Who knows, you may just find something to add to your signature style that you couldn’t imagine living without. From fringed skirts as the one above, to sheer maxi dresses, stacked sandals or a statement print sheath, keep your eye out from something that sings to you.

 

Images:(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)

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Letting Go & Hanging On: What Falls Where?

“We must be willing to let go of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”– Joseph Campbell
The Simple Sophisticate, episode #41

While the undeniable life truth remains that change is inevitable, even when we seek change, fervently pursue it, letting go of certain aspects of the life we’ve been living can feel as though we are leaving behind our “Linus blanket“.

Whether it’s the comfort of being accepted  in the community we currently live in, the comfort of the walls we’ve built to protect our heart or the comfort of a social calendar that may not have been to our taste, but at least we have one, letting go of what we have known for what is completely uncertain can cause angst in even the most courageous of people.

At the beginning of 2015, the first post of the year focused on the premise of getting back to simple. As Einstein reminds, “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” And part of striking the right balance is letting go of the unnecessary which in turn invokes change in our lives on our own terms for the purpose of improving the overall quality of life. And in the same vein, knowing what to always hang on to – the foundational components – will give our lives the sound structure and direction that will bring fulfillment.

Let Go Of: 

1. Others’ Opinions

It has been my experience that when I am unsure of myself, abilities and path, I seek approval from others more readily and often. The lesson? Take the time to get to know yourself, hone your strengths and in doing so you will begin to approve of yourself and that is all that matters. (Discover a more in-depth discussion on the importance of seeking your own approval here.)

2. The Number of Likes

Social media accounts offer wonderful ways to stay in touch and share information, but similar to #1, if your value or confidence depends on outside approval, you need to begin doing work on the inside: Mental strength, self-acceptance and self-knowledge.

3. The Size of Your House

Many people believe they need a large house because they have many people for whom they will have to house or they have an immense amount of stuff. The fact of the matter is, Americans have lived in far smaller homes in the past with just as many people (often more). Two years ago this post provoked great discussion on the benefits of living in a smaller home.

4. Societal Expectations That Shrink Who You Are and Could Be

“Courage is the power to let go of the familiar.”– Raymond Lindquist

Many people want to, but few choose to find the courage to walk to the beat of their own drum when they realize to do otherwise would diminish who they are and what they have to offer. Be brave. We all are capable of discovering the courage within us because it is there just waiting to be exercised.

5. A Busy Schedule

Inevitably there will be times when your life becomes harried because a confluence occurs of all of your life priorities, but allowing this to be an everyday occurrence speaks more of what each of us lacks in life and are afraid to confront. Read this post about the need to let go of busy.

6. Brand Name Clothing

The only reason I buy Diane von Furstenberg clothing is because it aligns with my signature style: quality, chic, casual attire (and it has to be on sale). However, to buy a pair of heels for the red soles or a handbag for the entwining Cs so everyone can see you owning/wearing them is to reveal your dependence on the approval of others. (See #1.)

7. Fake Food

Not only will your waistline thank you, but your long-term physical health and especially your mind. Click here to find a list of foods to let go of and ones to indulge in.

8. Comparing Social Calendars

If you are secure and loving the life you are living, to hear that a dear friend is going to roam around the world should be exciting, celebratory news. On the flip side, to have friends who are secure in their lives enough to be excited for your adventures, are friendships you want to nurture. So be sure to travel or not to travel, go out or not go out, for the right reasons.

9. The Latest Tech Upgrade

Everyone’s life will require certain tech capabilities, but let go of the need to be seen with the latest release of the iPhone or Samsung Galaxy. In so doing you will be able to use that money for other more enjoyable investments.

10. Where Someone Gained Their Education

Whether a public college or a prestigious Ivy League institution or a trade school in proximity to where you grew up, where someone chose or was financially able to advance their training of the career they wish to pursue shouldn’t matter in the least. It is one’s willingness to learn, ability to grow and apply successfully their knowledge along with their passion and work ethic, that should catch our attention. So look not at the place of degree, but rather to someone’s expertise and passionate pursuit.

11. Mode of Transportation

Perhaps this is bigger out here on the west coast, but the only reason one should pay attention to their choice of transportation is to ensure functionality and safety. Beyond that, save your money and don’t forget to change your oil regularly (if your mode of transport is a car).

12. Past Mistakes

“The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward.”– Steve Maraboli

We each leave behind us a textbook full of lessons we have the opportunity to learn from as we move forward, but learning from them and dwelling on them are two different things. When we revert to dwelling, we are longing for a chance to rewrite history  – a chance, we undoubtedly know will never materialize. Rather when we chose to learn from history, we are accepting our past, remembering we are human and moving forward with more knowledge.

Just as there are clear things to let go of, there are specific items to hold onto with absolute resolution:

1. Curiosity 

To remain curious, as Diane Sawyer reminds, is to never grow old. For there will always be something new to learn and will serve as a fire you never want to extinguish.

2. Books, Information, Etc.

Whether a book checked out from the library or a news article read in Feedly, voluntarily choose to be well read and in the know. Click here for the benefits of staying abreast of current affairs and here for the benefits of reading.

3. Authenticity

You have something to offer the world that no one else has. Take the time to discover it, have the courage to cultivate it and pursue it without apology. Your life and legacy will be more fulfilling as a result.

4. Your Unique Path

People often scoff, question or try to thwart ideas they don’t understand or due to their experience, couldn’t imagine for themselves. As humans we consciously view the world from our limited perspective. Knowing this should lift the burden as you pursue and cultivate the life you have imagined.

5. Gratitude

Being thankful for what is going well keeps the positive energy flowing through each of our days, motivates us to be more positive by default and is a magnet for more experiences and people to be thankful for.

Often too, when we spend our time being thankful for what we do have, we don’t pursue so often what we don’t need. Which as a byproduct eliminates unnecessary stress as well.

6. Hope

Never lose the fuel that will carry you right up to the moment you weren’t sure would ever happen.

Without question, life, if lived consciously, isn’t always easy, but there are many ways we make it harder than it needs to be.

All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on.”– Havelock Ellis

Strip the unnecessary and revel in the beautiful.

While yes, quite simple, it requires conscious effort on our part. The key is to recognize what supports you as you courageously choose to be authentically who you are and have the capability to become and what aligns with your life priorities. Everything else is just filler. Even in choosing what to hold on to and what to let go of, notice which list is longer. Quality and quantity prevails again.

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~Getting Back to Simple

Petit Plaisir:

Eminence Facial Recovery Oil

Purchase here or here. Find a spa who carries the product here.

~Podcast #13 – 8 Ways to Create Glowing Skin

 

Image: (1) Ruban FW15

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This & That: No. 161

Beauty
~Chanel CC Cream Complete Correction Sunscreen (SPF 25-32)

As I was flipping through one of my fashion magazines last week, I came across a recommendation of Chanel’s sunscreen. And since my curiosity was piqued, I looked a little further. Not only does Chanel’s sunscreen contain a higher SPF than most designer beauty tinted moisturizers (typically 15), it also serves as a primer in many ways as well. Be sure to read the reviews provided by the link, but if you’re willing to invest, and don’t want to put too many different products on your face as it serves as your basic semi-sheer foundation, you might want to have a look.

Book
~Happily Ali After: And Other Fairly True Tales by Ali Wentworth

As only comedian and actress Ali Wentworth can, the follow-up book to her best-selling Ali in Wonderland, looks to be filled with her unique and engagingly hilarious voice. Inspired by maxims appearing in her Twitter feed, Wentworth attempted to follow their advice and then took a detour from Gretchen Rubin’s Happiness Project to experience what turned out at times to be the “Unhappiness Project”. Much like a girlfriend you could spend hours talking and laughing with without editing a word, if you’re looking for a slice of humor, you may have found your book.

~Killing Monica by Candace Bushnell

Sex and the City writer Candace Bushnell returns on June 23rd with her latest novel, Killing Monica. Perhaps inspired by her own road of success derived by the iconic character Carrie Bradshaw, PJ Wallis, the protagonist of the tale is a writer who after having crafted the beloved Monica (a young woman making her way in Manhattan), wishes now only to kill her and write something completely outside of the audience’s expectation. Not without her publisher and husband begging her to stay the course as it is a cash cow, she finally finds the courage, and the books takes the readers along for the ride. I must say, I think this will be ideal summer reading.

~Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic: Lessons in Everyday Elegance by Jennifer L. Scott

I couldn’t wait to share with you, but I wanted to give you the head’s up. Jennifer L. Scott (of the Daily Connoisseur blog) has just announced her third book’s release date. Tuesday October 27th mark your calendars for her resource of a book all about simple everyday lessons in poise that will take you from work to hosting effortlessly elegantly without batting an eye.

Shopping
~Chance Stripe Pajamas

When Julia Leach first began her company, Chance, a couple of years ago, the stripe fanatic that I am was beyond exuberant. Why? Well, it’s all about stripes – classic stripes. And while a nautical top is an ideal essential to have in our closet, a luxury that I splurged on and still love to wear to bed is a pair of her classic stripe pocket pajamas. Available in a couple of different options as you can see above, save up and rest-assured, the quality cotton sleep set will last for years.

Theater
~The Tempest

Shakespeare in the Park has begun in New York City, and it is The Tempest that is currently available to the audience to enjoy. Starring Sam Waterston of Law & Order and more recently Grace & Frankie fame, Shakespeare’s tale of young love and old enemies is directed by Tony award winner Michael Greif. While I am going to do my best to see a production on my upcoming trip to NYC, it most certainly won’t be easy. But who knows, I might just get lucky!

~recipe for Raspberry Mango Tango Smoothie~

What a week it has been. With careful attention being paid to correcting some technical glitches on the blog to wrapping up the last few days with my seniors, there has been only a few spare hours to sit down and breathe, but the good news is that all has come to a positive resolution.

As I mentioned last week, for anyone who is a subscriber to the daily emails, the delivery has been held up. *fingers crossed* Thankfully, everything should be back up and working: The app, Bloglovin, Feedly, and Pulse should all be updating as they should (you may have to delete and re-add TSLL feed on Feedly and Pulse as that was my experience). If you receive two emails with the same posts, be sure to delete your Feedburner account and not your Aweber as I am shifting entirely over to Aweber and trying to let go of Feedburner as it is not as well-tended to. If you still are not receiving your daily emails as you have in the past, please do let me know. Needless to say, it has made me evermore appreciative for the many days, months and years everything has run smoothly.

And with that, the weekend. Perhaps you will get to indulge in some outdoor leisure, or pop on by the local farmers’ market to pick up the perfect ingredients for the delicious smoothie shown above. Whatever you choose to do, have a wonderful time. For your reading pleasure this week, you will find a handful articles you might enjoy below. And with that, until Monday, bon weekend!

~Learn from those who know . . . 5 Powerful Rituals of Mentally Strong People

~SJP launches a bridal shoe line, after all, it is June

~Knowledge can be procured anywhere . . . 10 Life Lessons You Learn in the Real World, Not in School

~School may be out, but if you’re a parent who is reveling in an empty nest, you will love this article from The Wall Street Journal “School’s Out Forever“

~It really is the simple things that make a big difference . . . 10 Small Things People Overlook Which Actually Matter for Success

~Ah, I would be remiss if I didn’t include a few all-time favorite commencement addresses. Marie Claire UK rounds up the top 10 Speeches by Inspirational Women, and I would highly recommend Nora Ephron’s if you have time to listen.

~Forgo multi-tasking and try single tasking, you might just be amazed by the increased productivity

Images: (2)

 

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Thoughts from the Editor: To the Class of 2015

Change, desired or lamented, expected or served as a curveball, can affect us each in a myriad of ways. From emotional mood swings that combat us at unexpected times to spontaneous bursts of exhilaration as we allow the reality to sink in, and realize the opportunities that lay ahead, the experiences it causes to unfold can shock even the most well-experienced person.

The last day with my seniors was yesterday, and as was the occasion, I shared a few words of parting wisdom that have helped me along the way, and perhaps may be of some assistance no matter where they wish their path to go.  At this point, they are more than likely ready to escape the direction of teachers, as I completely understand. Now is the time with the events of commencement to begin, to start fresh, to take off the training wheels and practice and apply all that has been learned. But should they want to hear just one more (or in this case, three) pieces of advice, I thought I’d say a few words.

While I shared the following three pieces of wisdom in class, my nerves and emotions grabbed me, and my delivery was not as I had hoped for each class. So I’d like to take the opportunity to share what I revealed to my students. Most likely TSLL readers are not those who are graduating from high school, let alone college, but perhaps anyone who is moving on to the next or a new stage will find these words helpful. For me, without question, they are words I believe in wholeheartedly as adhering to each of them has help me to curate a life I still pinch myself each time I realize it is my reality.

Here we go. To anyone reading, students and future alum of PHS or students of life, take them or leave them, it is entirely up to you as you no doubt have many talking heads from parents, relatives, administrators and even friends giving you words of advice.

1. Be willing to work hard for your life goals. It has been my experience that anything worthwhile doesn’t land in our laps (and if it does, question the heck out of it). Part of the reason we have a greater appreciation for hard sought after aspirations is that we recognize the time and energy it took to make the journey arrive at its destination. Too often, when we are handed something without blinking an eye, it is easier to toss it aside, as we don’t realize that for many such a feat was most difficult.

2. Be brave enough to get to know yourself. Take the time to discern which voices of guidance are truly yours and which are actually your parents, friends or society. In doing so, you will traverse along a trail that in retrospect you will be proud to say you had the courage to embark on. (Click here to read Why Not . . . Get to Know Yourself?)

3. Be kind. There will be days when it will be easier than others to extend a kind word or helping hand. There will be days when you know you could have done better, but trust me when I say, you will never regret choosing kindness even if it goes unappreciated. On that note, being kind may at times require you to say or do something someone doesn’t want to hear, but needs to hear. Find the courage and tact to do so. Perhaps down the road they will understand, but either way, your actions will rest well with your conscious.

And most importantly be kind to yourself. Be kind by saying “No” if that is the necessary answer (because “No” is an answer, even if someone doesn’t want to hear it), that is in alignment with your journey, destination, values and peace of mind. Be kind to yourself by caring for yourself so that you can be your best self. Because when we are each at our best, those around us rise with up as well.

The journey has already begun, but now more than ever you are at the wheel. Do not take for granted this opportunity. While it may be easier to sit in the backseat and let someone else navigate your journey, you’ll never know for sure where you will go or what you could have achieved. Be brave. Trust your compass. And enjoy the thrill of this adventure called life.

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

9 Ways to Trust Your Inner Compass

10 Ways to Take Command of Your Life

17 Benefits of Being Yourself

A Thinking Life = A Happy Life

Why Not . . . Figure Out How You Are Hard-Wired?

Images: (1) (2)  (3) (4)

 

 

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Word of the Week: No. 5

Click for pronunciation

http://www.thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dearth.m4a

 

WORDS OF THE WEEK FROM THE ARCHIVES:

~No. 4: vacillate

~No. 3: accoutrements

~No. 2: serendipity

 

Image: (1)

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Outfit of the Week: Net-a-Porter Sale Ensemble

 

~Chloe Denim Shorts (30% off)~

~T by Alexander Wang Cotton Twill Shirt (40% off) similar here~

~MiH stripe shirt (50% off)~

~Tory Burch Paloma leather and linen wedge sandals (50%) or Miu Miu suede and wood wedge (30% off) or Paul Andrew Hampton python espadrille wedge~

~Marc by Marc Jacobs Sally textured leather shoulder bag (30% off)~

~Kenneth Jay Lane embossed gold-plate ring (50% off)~

~Marc by Marc Jacobs orbit gold-tone earrings~

~SHOP THE OUTFIT:

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Style Inspiration: Sand and Cement Style

The transition from work to vacation is here, and that means maxi dresses, sun hats, sunglasses and sandals. However, we can’t camp out at the beach all summer (although it would be lovely to do so, wouldn’t it?) as work, real life and our pocketbooks need us to hit the pavement every so often. So today, indulge in style inspiration for both destinations. I must say, my favorite this week is the turquoise halter-neck maxi dress. The hue is stunning.

~STYLE INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:

~The Classic White Shirt

~A Melange of Sophistication

~Bare Skin & Chic Style

Images: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (brown sandal wedges) (10) (11) (12) (13)

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8 Ways to Become the CEO of Your Own Life

“Women have never had so many options. Yet we often experience a kind of paralysis, an unconscious willingness to follow societal dictates rather than become the CEOs of our own lives. When we mindlessly follow the dots, we smother our innate gifts and miss opportunities to fulfill our true potential.” -Shannon Ables, Choosing the Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman’s Guide
The Simple Sophisticate, episode #40

Being the head of any company, no matter how successful, can be exhausting, demanding and emotionally taxing as the primary decisions and direction of where a company is going rests squarely on the CEO’s shoulders. However, much like Apple, OWN or Berkshire Hathaway, each of these companies have been successful, and at the helm for the entire time, or the nearly the entire time, one person has manned the rudder. All three of these CEOs started from nothing; all three of them had tumultuous times, but all three, due to their tenacity, clear vision and dogged work ethic, have been and still are very successful.

How we go about each of our lives is not that much different from how a company is run. Each life has the potential for success or catastrophe depending upon how it is managed. Choosing to take the director’s seat (apologies for mixing metaphors) can be daunting, intimidating and frightening because if success isn’t attained, all the responsibility falls back to the top dog; however, if success materializes, we will be able to pat ourselves on the back.

Much like predicting the stock market’s ebbs and flows, life too is unpredictable, but if you choose to incorporate these eight components into your life’s mission statement as CEO, you will indeed be more likely to soar with the eagles than remain on the ground.

1. Look Beyond Others’ Approval

Having just wrapped up teaching the novel To Kill a Mockingbird, one of the activities I include in my end of the unit lessons incorporates psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg’s Ideas of Moral Reasoning. Including six levels, he describes that each of us makes decisions depending upon one of these six levels depending upon how morally developed we have become. Placement is fluid as we can swift based on maturity and experience, but the primary reason we should each aspire to let go of what others think is because it is beneath us and will hinder our overall fulfillment in life.

Seeking self-approval is number three on the levels of moral reasoning, and in contrast, the highest level is to follow a set of self-formulated principles that aspires to see beyond popular or legal dictates, but rather determine what is best for society worldwide. It indeed takes a strong person to establish and then follow through on such an elevated way of approaching life, but much like Atticus (who is indeed defined as having reached this top level), it is worth it.

Attaining the sixth level takes time, self-reflection and inner courage. An example that always comes to mind is the idea of choosing to have children. Society, in many ways still expects, either consciously or unconsciously for women to desire to have children, and if such a choice is not made, many will jump to conclusions. In Selfish, Shallow, and Self-Absorbed: Sixteen Writers on the Decision Not to Have Kids by Meghan Daum, each writer reveals though their narration that being selfish, shallow and self-absorbed is actually the furthest from the truth when it comes to describing such individuals who have the inner courage to follow their own self-formualted set of principles.

Whether one chooses to have child or not, marry or not, pursue a particular career or not, should only be because they find it to be in alignment with their path, their talents, their passions instead of simply following the crowd. The example above is merely to point out, that if your path isn’t the one society is used to seeing, you may have to muster of your gumption, but it will at times to difficult. But rest assured, if you know it to be the best path for you, the approval from others will be the furthest from your mind.

A truly fulfilling life can only materialize if we choose the life we are living for ourselves. So rather than seeking others’ approval, seek first your own approval and have the courage to follow through.

2. Pursue Your Path With Determination

“If you’re frustrated because you’re not getting what you want, stop for a second: Have you actually flat-out asked for it. If if you haven’t, stop complaining. You can’t expect the world to read your mind. You have to put it out there . . . ” -Sophia Amoruso, #GIRLBOSS 

It has been my experience that very few things worth having, experiencing or being involved with, happen with the snap of the fingers. Rather, life often wants to assess how badly we desire something, be it a job, a new life, or a relationship. And while it may seem that life is shutting the door on our dreams, I’ve never found the door to be locked if it is indeed something that is possible. Life merely wants to know if we indeed want it as much as we say we do, in other words, continue to knock.

Ultimately, we each have to know what we want in order to pursue it and attain it. And once we know what we want, pursue it without relenting. Showing such determination will eventually be rewarded.

3. Care For Your Temple Regularly

In order to do our best, be productive and be able to evolve into the person we are confident we can become, we must care for our bodies, internal, externally and mentally, on a regular basis. Adhering to a regular workout routine, practicing regular mind mastery techniques (meditation), and tending to our beauty regimen is not an effort in vanity, rather an approach that will allow us to perform our best, as well as feel our best, so that we can forget about what our body, mind and physical appearance is and simply go about our job.

In a recent Huffington Post article, the writer compares this tending to the body as sharpening the saw. Spending additional time caring for our bodies is much like sharpening a saw. If we come to the forest with the sharpest utensil in the group, we will slice through the tree trunk in mere minutes, while a dull blade that has not been tended to may start out the quickest, but will take hours to complete. Take the time, regularly, to take care of the only vessel that can make your dreams a reality – your whole being.

4. Mastery of Your Mind

“But there’s also the everyday kind of magic that we make for ourselves. And that’s really not magic at all. It’s just recognizing the fact that we control our thoughts and our thoughts control our lives.” -Sophia Amoruso

As mentioned in #3, tending to our mind, becoming the master of it, is crucial to success. In fact, not tending to our mental strength can diminish our chances as Sophia Amoruso points out,“I also think you can end up ignoring, and even losing, the positive things in your life by focusing too much on the negative.” (Click here for episode #20 – How to Master Your Mind)

The reality we create in our minds is often what will materialize in the world we live in. So what do you want to see in the near future? Have the strength and the tenacity to boot out the bad, and usher in the good. “You have to kick people out of your head as forcefully as you’d kick someone out of your house if you didn’t want them to be there.” -Sophia Amoruso

5. Respect the Power of Money

“Money spells freedom. If you learn to control your finances, you won’t find yourself stuck in jobs, places, or relationships that you hate just because you can’t afford to go elsewhere.” – Sophia Amoruso

Most of us start off with little, but it is how we care for the money we are given and earn as we start to build our financial foundation that will determine if we will be successful in the long run. Those who turn up their noses at earning money, either don’t know how to do it or don’t understand the power it yields. And so long as the power is used for good, the life you will create will be amazing. Click here to discover TSLL Money archived posts or read Chapter 3 of my book to become the master of your finances.

“There is no dignity quite so impressive, and no independence quite so important, as living within your means.” -Calvin Coolidge

6. Know How to Market Yourself

Whether you want to be an entrepreneur or not, we each will be on the hunt for a job at some point, and the key is to know how to sell ourselves successfully to attain the career we seek. In #GIRLBOSS, Amoruso shares in detail tips and tricks on how to write a successful cover letter, resume, give a winning interview and work effectively in the company. Tune into today’s episode of the podcast to hear a handful of tips I have learned along the way as well.

7. Become an Effective Communicator

Two of the most important factors in becoming an effective communicator are being strong enough to be authentic and knowing our audience. While we will tend to make mistakes along the way, so long as we are doing our best, choosing to be honest so as not to manipulate or deceive, our approach will be met with respect. People may not always like what we have to say, but they will come to trust that we have to say is dependable.

Whether in our personal or professional lives, being an active participant when it comes to communication will reap far more success than being passive and assuming others know what we want. Part of the reason there are so few effective communicators is because it is not easy. It takes strength, knowledge of the subject matter and control of one’s emotions, to effectively convey what we want to those involved in the colloquy. But with anything, so long as you we are each willing practice, learn from our previous missteps, and try again, we will improve.

8. Redefine Failure

“It is she who listens to the rest of the world who fails, and it is she who has enough confidence to define success and failure for herself who succeeds.” – Sophia Amoruso

The only way to be successful is to risk what many define as failure. But here’s the catch, it is never really failure, so long as there is a lesson to be learned from the experience. And the good news is that there will always be something to learn. Keep applying the lessons, refuse to allow others’ definition of what success is be swapped for what you know to be success for you. After all, we are each on our own journey. Even reaching the same peak for one person could have taken years, while for the next climber it could have taken only a few days. Never allow others’ evaluations of what you have done to be your barometer for success. So long as you know you’ve done your best, so long as you refuse to not be stay defeated, you will be successful.

At the heart of living a simply luxurious life is finding the courage within yourself to live life on your own terms. While we all must learn how to interact effectively with each others, communicate and work in such a way to think of the community and society as a whole, when it comes to the decisions we make, we must spend our entire lives with ourselves. TSLL blog, The Simple Sophisticate podcast and the book provide the framework so that you will have a sound foundation and clear direction about how to achieve a life of contentment, but you are the artist, the designer. Your house will look like nobody else’s, and that is the beauty. Enjoy the journey and be brave.

~POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~The 8 Pillars of Building a Simply Luxurious Life

~6 Ways to Find Your Authentic Path

~26 Things I Know For Sure

~How to Be the Master of Your Mind

Petit Plaisir
~Romantics Anonymous (2010), French film, subtitles in English

 

Image: (1)

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This & That: No. 160

App 
~NetSet

If you are a particular shopper who is inspired by what you see on social media, or are more likely to decide your next outfit by the experiences and sights you see in your day-to-day life, Net-a-Porter‘s new app, NetSet, may be just for you. Have a look at the video to discover how finding exactly what you want can be right at your fingertips.

Book
~The French Beauty Solution: Time-Tested Secrets to Look and Feel Beautiful Inside and Out by Mathilde Thomas

While you will have to wait until July 14th, you might just want to put Mathilde Thomas’ book on your wish list. As cofounder of the international cosmetic company Caudalíe, Thomas shares her experiences of growing up in Paris combined with her successful venture into the beauty industry. To further reveal the knowledge of the French when it comes to beauty, she compares the different approaches of their American counterparts to reveal how one’s beauty regimen should be something to luxuriate in and be done consistently to act as a preventative measure, rather than a reparative approach.

Included in the book are many all natural suggestions such as honey and oil to wash your face, and advice on what foods to eat for healthier skin, hair and nails. You better believe, it will be on my summer reading list this season. Enjoy!

~The Red Notebook by Antoine Laurain

When TSLL reader, Kelly, suggested I take a look at Antoine Laurain’s The Red Notebook, I took a moment to check it out. And upon recently doing so, I immediately put it in my shopping cart. Scheduled to arrive this weekend, I am eager to dive into this cozy mystery of a handbag left behind with a red notebook full of thoughts and jottings that intrigues the finder to take on the task of solving the mystery of the owner. The writer of several other similar tales, if you want a light-hearted read, you may have just found your next favorite author.

~The Upside of Stress: Why Stress is Good for You, and How to Get Good At It by Kelly Gonigal

Stronger, smarter and happier. Such descriptors probably don’t come to mind when we think of the effects of stress, but according to Stanford psychologist Kelly Gonigal, it is possible with careful attention. With the help of science, stories and exercises, Gonigal offers inspiring advice to best deal with the stress that is already in our lives.

~The Umbrian Thursday Night Supper Club by Marlena de Blasi

While searching for The Red Notebook mentioned above, I came across this lovely title that has been likened by reviewers to Under the Tuscan Sun and Eat, Pray, Love. As the title hints, each Thursday, a group of women gather in Italy’s Orvieto, for a meal I can only imagine will make your tastebuds envious, to share stories about their lives. Scheduled to be released in the US in November, it is already available in Europe and the UK here.

Shopping
~The Nudes by Donna Karan

A reader recently asked for my thoughts on stockings – to wear or not to wear – and while currently I don’t wear pantyhose, I know they are more likely to be worn than not. In fact, it was Kate Middleton (the Duchess of Cambridge) who stylishly reminded the public that they can be worn and worn well. The Wall Street Journal‘s style section recently addressed this question, and one of the most sought after brands is Donna Karan’s The Nudes. Available in four different shades, they are sheer enough that you see the woman’s leg, but offer just enough coverage to smooth the appearance of the skin’s tone.

~recipe for Fried Mozzarella and Carmelized Peach Caprese Burger~

The weekend has arrived and with it absolutely gorgeous weather. To stroll on the beach may be out of the question for me at the moment, but to take some time to enjoy a delicious meal like the one above is not. Summer time means time to slow down, savor, relax and let go a little bit more, and that is what I am most looking forward to. Today’s This & That is full of books to read for such leisurely moments this season, as that is one of my absolute favorite pastimes.

On a blog business note, many of you have emailed me to let me know that the daily email subscription service, as well as the App, are not being updated with new blog posts or you are not receiving the posts in your email. The good news is I am aware of this hiccup and in even better news, I am currently working with my web designer to rectify the situation. Hopefully sooner rather than later you will see the subscription working again. My apologies for this inconvenience, but please know the blog has continued to post as it regularly does, so in the meantime, you can simply stop by and see what is going on: Cannes’ Film Festival Red Carpet favorites, a sunny Outfit of the Week and the Similarities between Dating and Selling a Home were discussed earlier this week.

Now to the weekend, two days of relaxation, travel or play. Whatever is on your schedule, enjoy. And until Monday bon weekend!

~Fascinating and very true – The Four Stages of Life

~29 Food Rules We Can Learn from the French . . . wise words

~5 Simple Questions that Will Make You 5 Times More Successful

~Traveling to Paris? The New York Times offers frugal ways to enjoy the City of Light

And be sure to check out TSLL’s New Weekly Finds in the right-hand column as Net-a-Porter’s semi-annual sale has begun and the discounts are steep.

Image: (2)

The post This & That: No. 160 appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

Thoughts from the Editor: Cannes Red Carpet 2015

The 2015 Cannes Film Festival recently concluded this past Sunday, but not without a bevy of beautiful designs and a dash of controversy . . . albeit about shoes, but at such a coveted red carpet to attend, it indeed was a headline worthy, no?  Actually, Cannes’ director denied the report that high heels were a requirement, but that didn’t silence the presses.

Emily Blunt (seen above in Stella McCartney), evidentially was quite vocal and in support of the women who were turned away at the entrance for wearing bejeweled flats, even going so far as to admit, “Everyone should wear flats, to be honest. We shouldn’t wear high heels.”

New York Times journalist Elizabeth Semmelhack, in her column this past weekend, took the opportunity to refresh readers of the history the heel, and how one’s choice of shoe does not determine one’s power in society. A shoe is simply a shoe.

While indeed wearing heels is a treat, I can remember far too many times when I feet were in dire pain; however, the silhouette, the elongation that occurred was too tempting. Does a woman become more of an object, a play thing, one to be taken less seriously because she opts for height and allure? How preposterous! Rather, it is one’s choice to have fun with fashion, but one should never feel forced to wear a shoe that isn’t to their taste.

If indeed Shoegate is a true tale to arise out of the past two weeks in Cannes, that is unfortunate. One’s shoe choice should not be dictated by another (unless you are wearing a loaned dress of a designer that has an expectation of presentation, are in the heart of your publicity tour and your stylist insists). Otherwise, to wear a heel or not is completely up to the person who must walk in them.

Shoes aside, the red carpet was stunning. And I must admit of all of the red carpets throughout the awards season, the Cannes Film Festival extravaganza is my favorite as it offers classic, regal, yet chic and feminine designs. No one plays it too safe, but no one wears a shock-and-awe ensemble either. Have a look at more than a few of my favorites.

~Marion Cottilard in Dior Haute Couture~

~in Dior~

~Jourdan Dunn in Ralph & Russo~

~Chanel Iman in Donna Karan~

~Kendall Jenner in Azzedine Alaïai~

~Zhou Yun in Elie Saab~

~Shu Qi in Elie Saab~

~Naomi Watts in Elie Saab~

~in Armani Prive~

~in Ralph Lauren~

~Ines de la Fressange~

~Karlie Kloss in Tom Ford~

~in Versace~

~Rachel Weisz in Prada~

~in Narcisco Rodriquez~

~in Louis Vuitton~

~Natalie Portman in Rodarte~

~in Dior~

~in Lanvin~

~in Dior Haute Couture~

~Julianne Moore in Armani Prive~

~Daria Strokous in Luisa Beccaria~

~Rooney Mara in Alexander McQueen~

 

~Salma Hayek in Gucci~

~Lupita Nyong’o in Gucci~

~Charlize Theron in Dior~

~Cate Blanchett in Giles~

~Blanchett & Mooney in Rochas~

~in Armani Privé~

Images: NYTimes, & style.com

The post Thoughts from the Editor: Cannes Red Carpet 2015 appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.