Shannon Ables's Blog, page 334

Thoughts from the Editor

With yesterday’s official announcement that the author of the beloved author of To Kill a Mockingbird will be released her long, long, long anticipated second novel this summer (July 14th – my calendar is marked and a day will be entirely dedicated to reading it without interruption), I am reassured that indeed good things do take time . . . but they do indeed materialize. It may be fifty-five years in the waiting, but the 88-year old Harper Lee made a lot of people smile yesterday.

Titled Go Set a Watchman, her second novel was actually written prior to her Pulitizer Prize winning novel narrated by the iconic female protagonist Scout, and is a reported 304 pages. And in even more exciting news, Scout again will narrate the story from her perspective as she returns to Maycomb, Alabama, to visit her father Atticus as a young woman. (While the cover has yet to be revealed, you can already pre-order your copy here.)

However . . . many who know how fiercely Nelle Harper Lee’s sister Alice, protected her sister’s legal rights are questioning whether or not Nelle actually gave consent or not. As Alice passed away last November at the age of 103, she had stated for the press that her sister is not in good health and will sign just about anything placed in front her. I must admit I do have my doubts, and I can only hope that for Nelle’s sake, the novel is a literary success that leaves her devoted fans more adoring than they already are.

(Learn more about Harper Lee in my review about the recently released biography, The Mockingbird Next Door)

On a totally different note, it’s February. I adore this month. Why? Spring is just around the corner and fall fashion weeks are about to begin starting in New York and wrapping up in Paris. And that also means the March issues are about to arrive on newsstands soon as well. While I must admit, I didn’t watch the Super Bowl, two Super Bowl related ladies made the covers of top British mags for the Spring Fashion issues:

Needless to say, fashion is on my mind, but so is feeling good, eating well and taking care of my health. December, and I must admit, January too, were two months I enjoyed myself in the kitchen and around the dining room table, so now it is all about getting back on track: packing healthy lunches and snacks to get me through the day, doubling down on yoga classes each week and hydrating with good ole water consistently throughout the day. Here are a few posts on just these topics to help you stay onto of your best health without deprivation or over taxation of your body:

~Why Not . . . Feed Your Body Well?

~Why Not . . . Get & Stay in Shape?

~Why Not . . . Treat Your Body Like a Temple?

~Why Not . . . Try Yoga?

But more than anything that I’ve just mentioned, a recently released study serves as a reminder that sleep, getting enough of it each night, is the foundation for overall resounding good health and a happier life. Yep, 7-9 hours of sleep each night (see below). Find out the many ways a regular good night’s sleep is imperative to good health here. So more than ever, prioritizing how we spend our days, understanding why we do what we do, is vitally important.

I hope your week is treating you well, and I’ll be back on Friday for some fun and exciting items to be shared in the weekly This & That.

Image: (1)

The post Thoughts from the Editor appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on February 04, 2015 00:00

Style Inspiration: Touches & Splashes of Noir

Ah, black. The trustworthy staple whether we wear it in grand amounts or small, it can provide protection, exude mystery or simply create a stunning silhouette. Capable of being paired with absolutely everything (including navy – thank you Yves Saint Laurent for bringing this to our attention!), having a classic black dress, a black leather jacket, horizontal stripes, black print blouses, black sandals or pumps and why not black leather pants like Kate Moss (okay, maybe a step too far, even for me :-) ), it is a fun staple to experiment with, no? Enjoy a few inspiring style options.

~STYLE INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~White, Black & Grey

~Black, White & Warm

~Shades of Black & Tan

Images:(1) (1.5) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)

The post Style Inspiration: Touches & Splashes of Noir appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on February 03, 2015 00:00

The French Way: How to Create a Luxurious Everyday Life

“He who comes home with the most money doesn’t win. He who comes home with the most experiences wins.” – Steve Smith, contributor with Rick Steves in Rick Steves France 2015
The Simple Sophisticate, episode #23

One of the most exquisite pleasures in my experience has always been having time at home without a to-do list. To enjoy my sanctuary that comforts me, rejuvenates me and allows me to dream so that when I do step outside into the world I can do, seek and produce, is one of the things I most treasure about living simply luxuriously.

And so it began when I was a child, no doubt, as my mother always cultivated a warm home, but as I grew up and became responsible for establishing my own abode, it took much exploration, dead-ins from time to time and investment to create a space that allowed the everyday to be just as stimulating as new experiences brought about by travel.

And in so doing, paying attention to my home environment, I began to pay attention to how I spend my days. Was I exhausted and unfilled at the end or exhausted and feeling productive? Did I have time in my day to spend it with those I loved, converse with those who engaged in creative, uplifting and thought-provoking conversation or care for myself in such a way that respected my overall health? And depending upon my answer, I would tweak, eliminate, maximize or designate more or less time to those activities that improved the quality of living.

“He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much.”

-Bessie A. Stanley

As the quote reminds us, living well is truly about prioritizing how we spend our days. Did we make time to enjoy the day, spend it with those we hold dear, take time to respect what our minds and bodies need or did we cram everything into our waking hours in order to fit a mold that we weren’t asked for input regarding its creation? Everyone’s path to living well will be different, but the key is to know what you want – more loosely rather than specifically. Because as we know, our lives intermingle with the rest of the world, but if we bring our best selves, have good intentions and are willing to be true selves, success is possible when it comes to living well.

Recently, I was watching the travel guru Rick Steves discuss on PBS his explorations through the countryside of France. While staying at Chateau de Pray and dining on their outdoor terrace, his dining companion shared the quote listed at the beginning of today’s post. And I couldn’t agree more especially when it comes to travel, but why not bring a similar way of living into our everyday? Why not . . . live well each and every day? Why not use the nice china in the middle of the week? Why not treat ourselves regularly to dinner or lunch with a dear friend at a restaurant that piques our interest or tantalizes our taste buds? Why not sleep on silk pillowcases each night?

Many may quickly scoff at such ideas as being too indulgent, thus deflating the exhilaration that is felt when they are only experiences from time to time, but what I hope to bring to your attention today is that with patience and careful planning, everyday life can indeed be lived luxuriously and can actually enhance the quality of our lives. Below are 20 ways to foster a simply luxurious way of living, but these are just a taste. If you would like the full list inspired by the French way of living, check out chapter 10 “Indulging Your Inner Francophile” in Choosing The Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman’s Guide.

1. Cook at home. Find simple, yet delicious recipes and discover the pleasures of cooking on your own schedule for your own dietary needs and preferences. (View TSLL recipes here.)

2. Indulge in café time. Once, twice or three times a week depending up on your schedule and enjoyment, select a favorite local café and stop in for some reading time, moseying through magazine time, or chats with friends. Indulge in one of the patisseries delicious sweet treats and lose track of time.

3. Wear luxurious lingerie everyday. As I talk about in my book, lingerie is a necessity for the woman who wears it, not for those who might see her in it. Why? Because simply knowing we are wearing beautiful, comfortable, luxurious lingerie feels good. And everything begins with our thoughts. If we feel good, we smile more readily, we are more open to new experiences and our attitude is lifted.

4. Let go of busy. A powerful decision that will change your day-to-day living drastically for the better. Busy doesn’t mean better or more productive, it simply reveals a life that perhaps could be managed better. After all, living well means living a life of quality. A life that focuses on what is necessary and lets go of the rest. And when you let go of busy, you have more time for moments of simple leisure and luxury that cultivate an everyday life to savor. (Click here to dive into this topic.)

5. Cultivate a capsule wardrobe for each season. Knowing you have in your closet clothes that will make you look and feel your best is a very powerful tool to possess as you begin your day. While this takes time and never really ends due to lives and bodies changing, it is worth our attention. (Click here to learn more about building a capsule wardrobe.)

6. Follow your own schedule. Perhaps it’s Friday or even Saturday night, everyone must be out doing something, staying up late, right? Wrong. Your daily schedule is one that works for you and those you spend your time with. Perhaps you prefer Wednesday evenings out because Thursdays are lighter days at work and you enjoy spending your weekends waking up early and getting things done. Whatever schedule works for your goals, intentions, health, family, etc – adhere to it and don’t apologize. After all, our lives, needs and desires change, listen to what is nudging you, calling your name and that is where you will find the unexpected beauty.

7. Discover a personal scent. Similar to knowing you are wearing luxurious lingerie is the choice of scent you layer upon your skin before stepping out the door for work or for play. A luxurious decision and investment, but one that will reveal your attention to detail.

8. Subscribe to daily/weekly/monthly periodicals. Running throughout the philosophy of living simply luxuriously is being well-read. Depending upon your lifestyle, curiosities, locale and interests, you will select reading material that interests you. Most importantly, gather knowledge, choose to learn something new each day, read a review of a new play or restaurant and be encouraged to give it a try. Become in the know of current events in order to strike up a conversation with anyone. Reading in truth, is a way of tickling your brain and refusing to live each day the same even if the events may be routine.

9. Save time and don’t wash your hair everyday. Purchase a dry shampoo and have on hand for the days you don’t lather up. Shampoo less often, thereby saving yourself more time in the morning, and believe it or not, improve the condition of your tresses. (Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk)

10. Invest in quality skincare products. In episode #13 of the podcast, specifics are shared on how to create glowing skin, and by investing in quality skincare products, your most beautiful skin will shine. The power of prevention is real, and while it takes time and a bit of investment, the pay-offs are tremendous.

11. Design a workout regimen to look forward to. Whether you enjoy exercising outdoors in Mother Nature or attending classes lead by instructors that inspire you and classmates that boost your mood, explore your interests and community to see what is available and what captures your needs and proclivities. Most people after having exercise will tell you that they feel better, energized and less stress, and if you can bring that into your everyday life, everything will be affected in a very positive way. (Revolver Yoga Studio, Walla Walla)

12. Find time to treasure hunt. Even if you are not necessarily going to buy, poke around in local consignment shops, yard sales, second-hand shops, antique boutiques and even boutiques that catch your eye. If nothing else, you will walk away with ideas on how to design, style and mix and match what you already have.

13. Be sincere, yet kind. While everyone has days that you are simply grumpy for any list of reasons, taking it out on others is something you will most likely regret. And even if you have to deliver news that isn’t favorable, there is always a way to do so with kindness. Being conscious of how we treat people and our delivery will almost always be appreciated, and even if it is taken for granted, at least we can go home at night and feel good about the energy we put out into the world.

14. Shop at local vendors and boutiques. Perhaps you live in a town that you hand-selected for the community it offers, but what if you didn’t? Either way, supporting local vendors when it comes to food or local boutiques when it comes to shopping for gifts, necessities and products not only builds good-will, but strengthens the economy of the local community. And additionally, when it comes to buying food locally, you benefit your overall health as most foods are free from pesticides and hold more nutritional value that your body craves.

15. Eat real food. Full of flavor that will satiate, real food is a choice your body will thank you for. Processed food may be more convenient and help you reduce the shopping trips to the grocery store, but in the long term, it is a bad investment. Returning home after a long day knowing the food you will be incorporating into your meal will be satisfying and nutritious will remove guilt and properly fuel your body for whatever it may be asked to do next.

16. Elevate the conversation. Easier said than done when we are exhausted, stressed and frustrated, but when you do your best to refrain from complaining and gossiping, you are less likely to go home in the evening regretting or feeling guilty about partaking. In fact, when conversations are full of curious information – books, local events, news, etc – you can walk away inspired, motivated and eager to do something new. Why not bring such a conversation to those in your world?

17. Create an evening routine to look forward to. At the end of the day, your body and mind may be entirely taxed which is why making time (even 15 minutes) for unwinding with a favorite pastime is crucial. Being able to look forward to this simple routine can be the silver lining no matter what your day has unearthed.

18. Schedule regular spa appointments for beauty and health maintenance. Much like exercise, caring for our bodies is a means to caring for our health, overall beauty and mind. So be sure to schedule your facial, massage, hair cut/color, waxing and any other must-dos before you walk out the door from your last appointment. They can often be the respite in a busy week and will no doubt leave you feeling rejuvenated.

19. Stock a bar cart for spur-of-the-moment entertaining. Whether you drink alcoholic beverages or not, stock a bar cart that has drinks and nibbles at the ready for last-minute guests. Even for one or two guests, having a bar with wine, beer or if it’s morning – croissants and hot tea keeps the food with the conversation in the living room or sitting room. Luxurious and ready for any everyday occasion. (A glimpse of my

20. Fill your home with inspired music. For techies or retro audiophiles, have your turntable or playlists ready for any occasion. From leisurely jazz tunes when you return from work and wish to read the daily news to beautiful Bach in the morning as you get ready for work, set up your music station, turn off the television and forget about time, even if for a moment.

Whatever inspires you in your travels or remains memorable to you from your past, why not bring it into your everyday life if at all possible? Cultivate an everyday life that perhaps no one would believe is possible, but rest assured it is. After all, as Annie Dillard reminds us, how we spend our days is how we spend our lives. Why not spend your life living well each and everyday?

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~10 Gifts of Mastering the French Mystique

~Why Not . . . Indulge Your Inner Francophile?

~Why Not . . . Find Your Je Ne Sais Quoi?

~10 Ways to Unearth Your Inner Francophile (episode #4)

~French-Inspired Living: Books to Enjoy

Petit Plaisir:

Befriend a local wine shop to ensure great wines no matter what the occasion.

~Liner & Elsen “One of America’s six great main street wine shops.” -Bon Appetit

2222 NW Quimby St. (off 22nd Ave.)

Portland, OR 97210

They can ship the wine to you!
Staff who’ve helped me in the past: Neil Thompson and Kevin Geller

~Chateau Du Grand Bos (2005) Bordeaux, France (wine enjoyed in the photo to the right).

Image: (1)

The post The French Way: How to Create a Luxurious Everyday Life appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on February 02, 2015 00:00

This & That: No. 143

~Book
~Men Explain Things To Me by Rebecca Solnit

With a comedic approach, Rebecca Solnit addresses the ways in which men and women miscommunicate and addresses the problem of women remaining silent when they should speak up. This updated edition includes what helped this book of essays become a national best-seller and contains as well two new essays. With rave reviews, I’m eager to have a look.

~Zillow Talk: The New Rules of Real Estate

If you are considering moving or selling your home, Zillow founders have just released a real estate guidebook that is quickly becoming a best-seller. From sound advice about what is truly worth upgrading throughout your home to answering the age old question: is it better to buy or rent?, become a savvy seller/buyer and take a look.

~Shopping
~Eric Bompard Sale

Last week I shared my recent clothing purchase from Eric Bompard on Instagram, and I am thrilled to share with you that their winter sale has begun and runs through February 17th. With up to 50% off select cashmere items, these three classic sweaters are ones I highly recommend: the classic crew-neck pull-over, extra fine v-neck pullover, and classic v-neck pull-over.

Made in France, these sweaters are an investment, but they will look stunning for years if properly cared for, and don’t forget to order one size larger than you usually select (i.e. I wear a medium and am wearing a large in this image).

~Necessary Clothing Jinny Classic Blouse in White

A unique touch on the classic white blouse. And for under $25, why not? Dress up with black trousers or a skirt, or dress down with jeans. Made out of polyester, for a season or two, this would be a wonderful addition to add a simple, signature statement.

~Television
~The Honourable Woman

Last weekend, a dear friend of mine recommended I watch on Netflix Maggie Gyllenhaal in the BBC’s 8 part mini series The Honourable Woman. Playing the role of a powerful business woman in London trying to mend ties between Israel and Palestine while all the while hiding a tormenting personal secret, I am already on episode four and if I didn’t have to wake up and go to work in the morning, all eight episodes would be have already been watched. Brilliantly directed, acted and written. Have a look at the trailer below.

~Video
~US Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Life Lessons via The Atlantic

At the age of 81, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is the oldest justice currently serving on the United States’ Supreme Court and the second woman to be appointed to the highest bench in the country. Standing at 5’1″ tall, she has served since 1993 and continues to rule against gender discrimination and ending numerous laws that have limited women’s rights. In the video from The Atlantic, she shares her most valuable life lessons and explains how she was able to balance work and family. And if you would like to become better acquainted with Justice Bader Ginsburg, read this article.

~Giambattista Valli~

~recipe for Classic Cinnamon Rolls~

A weekend to stay home, catch up, organize taxes and work on an exciting decor project I have been dreaming about for some time. While the weather is . . . well, it January, so no surprises, it makes it easier to take care of the necessary business indoors as well as relax and mosey about inside. Perhaps dive into a divine book, or maybe organize taxes (yes, while not fun, feels exhilarating when complete). Either way, I am eager for this weekend to begin.

In the meantime, this past week in Paris as the couture shows were in full swing, I have enjoyed perusing the designs and have included a few of my favorites below (and one above). Before we know it the Fall RTW 2015 fashions will be walking the runways and I for one cannot wait to be inspired.

With just a few articles to share this week – one to inspire and one to make you chuckle – I hope you enjoy the upcoming weekend, and thank you for taking a moment to stop by the blog.

~7 Habits to Start in 7 Days to Guarantee a Year Full of Happiness

~My favorite part of watching 60 Minutes on CBS used to be Andy Rooney’s finale commentary. Needless to say, I don’t tune in as often since he has passed on. So when Vogue compiled a humorous look back at his Best Life Lessons offered on Sunday’s evening new program, I had to have a look.

~Atelier Versace~

~Armani Prive~

~Elie Saab~

~Elie Saab~

The post This & That: No. 143 appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on January 30, 2015 00:00

Thoughts from the Editor – Portland’s White House

whm

As someone who wishes to sleep just as comfortably when I travel as when I’m at home, I will search high and low for a beckoning luxurious bed. After all, it’s the weekend, and that is when we need to rejuvenate, rest and feel restored for the next week when it arrives.

And as a way to break up the month that is January that can be sometimes too long with foggy days and chilly nights, I ventured to Portland to check out a bed and breakfast that caught my attention – Portland’s White House.

Built in 1911 in the NE district of Irvington by the creator of the original cedar shake siding, Robert Lytle as a home to entertain (his second home), this Greek revival mansion is a sight to see and experience. Some Portland fans may recognize the home as it was used in episodes of both Grimm and Portlandia, but don’t be fooled by such populous modern fame. The Portland White House is a classic and accessorized to the brim with 18th and 19th century antiques and art collected by its owner Lanning Blanks.

With eight rooms available to guests, each with cozy linens, down comforters and Moonstruck chocolates to tuck you in at night, you will be certain to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. Needless to say, I am returning sooner rather than later. Enjoy a tour below.

whf whe

The post Thoughts from the Editor – Portland’s White House appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on January 29, 2015 00:00

Style Inspiration: Details, Jeans & Leather

With any outfit we pull together, it is the last touches that complete a look, and when we are opting to wear denim or leather accessories such as a leather jacket or boots, they offer a versatile palate for a variety of details to shine. How we style our hair, the tote we throw over our shoulder, or the scarf we wrap around our neck is to seal the deal and put the finishing touch upon an outfit we’ve carefully planned no matter how casual or dressed up we prefer to be. In this week’s Style Inspiration, enjoy a bit of varied inspiration that reveals at least one of these three components.

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

The post Style Inspiration: Details, Jeans & Leather appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on January 27, 2015 00:00

17 Habits to Become More Charismatic

“A knife can be used both to heal and to hurt. Whether in the hands of a surgeon or the hands of a criminal it’s the same instrument. Tools are seldom good or bad per se. It’s what you do with your charisma that matters.” -Olivia Fox Cabane, The Charisma Myth
The Simple Sophisticate, episode #22

At the heart of someone who possesses real charisma is that the people in their presence feel special and walk away with a boost of energy, a shot of confidence and the knowledge that they’ve been heard, noticed, seen. However, it is important to point out, that in the hands of the wrong people or people with the wrong intentions, charisma can devastate. This is when charisma turns into the alter-ego of suave, unctuous, and ingratiating – in other words, too polished to be real.

Much like the adage, “With great power, comes great responsibility”, learning the tool of charm must be used carefully and respectfully. While me may assume that we are either born with charm or not, that is actually entirely false. Charm is something we learn, either by observation of others subconsciously – our parents, friends, older siblings – or out of need, to obtain what we need to survive and then thrive.

And therein lies the good news, we can learn to become more charismatic. And even better, upon realizing that it is a learned trait, albeit some people have personalities that make it easier most definitely, such as being more gregarious and extroverted, we can then realize the power it wields, whereas if we subconsciously picked up said abilities, we may not realize how devastating such charisma can behold.

But now we all know, so let us lead by positive example, no?

Charm has the ability to gain us favor, garner desired attention, strengthen relationships and lead us to success. To pair integrity with charm is a surefire combination for a sound night’s sleep and a life traveling the path of contentment and fulfillment.

So what exactly makes someone appear charming? Olivia Fox Cabane points out that it is a combination of exuding high power and high warmth. Those around you perceive you to be someone who is willing and potentially able to influence the world in a positive way and just as importantly, define you as someone who is trustworthy and genuine.

After diving into The Charisma Myth, I have made a list of 17 habits that will help us all to become “naturally” charismatic. In doing so, you will be on your way to improving the quality of your life. Let’s get started.

1. Successfully Manage Your Mind

Mastering our thoughts is a necessary tool to live a fulfilling life, but it is just as important when it comes to being charismatic. We must filter out negative thoughts that will dash our confidence and push people away. If we are effectively mastering our minds, we determine our attitude and thereby attract more warmth from others to us.

2. Check Your Tone

How we speak is just as important as what we are saying. And simply by lower the intonation of our voice at the end of sentences, we can convey a sense of confidence to those who are tuning in.

3. Speak slower. Take longer pauses.

Similar to the tone of our voice, the pace of our speech establishes a tone of calm, certainty, whereas conversely, harried anxiety and stress can be created with a quickened pace. By slowing down our speech, pausing between sentences and thoughts, we are conveying a sense of control which also is often equated to one having confidence and certainty about what they are sharing.

4. Remain Calm

Especially during times of crisis, but even in our everyday lives, someone who is calm is a safe harbor for anyone who is not sure where to turn. When we exude a tranquil disposition, we physically are expressing that we can handle the situation, even if it will take time.

5. Be Completely Present

Simply by turning off our phones, refusing to be distracting by others walking by or noises that occur while we are spending time with someone, we are communicating non-verbally that their presence is our primary focus.

6. Focus on Others

The Charisma Myth underscores the primary goal of one who has charisma as “making others feel intelligent, impressive and fascinating”. To truly have charisma is to be selfless which takes conscious effort with every interaction we are in.

7. Offer Goodwill Towards Others

Being the sunshine in someone’s day is a thoughtful gesture that forces us to step out of our world and consider what someone else needs in that moment. Doing so will often come as an unexpected surprise to the recipient, but certainly won’t be forgotten.

8. Offer a True Smile

Smile with your eyes as well as the corners of your mouth which reveals a sincerity toward the person you are directing your attention towards.

9. Stop Comparing

Letting go of the need to compare quickly allows us to relax and be ourselves, and at the same time, enjoy those we are spending time with for their unique gifts, personalities and talents. Rather than one-upping our friends, family members or colleagues, why not revel in their successes, and they will be more likely to reciprocate as they will appreciate your support and attention.

10. Use Your Memory as a Tool

When we remember past experiences when we felt absolutely triumphant – we can grab onto that energy for a confidence boost whenever we are about to dive into something that perhaps we are uncertain about.

11. Rev Up Your Oxytocin

Sometimes called the “hug hormone” or “cuddle chemical”, this natural hormone is released in the brain as a way to help us connect to others. Olivia Fox Cabane points out that to recognize its power is to harness it for good means, so the next time you are anxious about meeting new people in an uncertain, but necessary setting, either physically hug someone who you care about just before attending, or remember having done so and often a similar effect, the oxytocin being released, will occur making you more open and warm toward others.

12. Let Go of Expectations

Instead of holding fast to expectations, decide instead to be grateful for all that is going well and don’t allow what you expect to happen dictate your mood as it will make you appear desperate and needy.

13. Walk Tall, Sit Large

Our physical presence is often the first impression received by others, so it is essential that we be aware of how we physically stand and sit. Standing up straight, relaxing in an open posture, and uncrossing our arms are just a few ways of taking up the necessary space – non-verbally communicating that we deserve to be where we are and that we are worthy of attention.

14. Warm-Ups Help

Yes, warm-ups. To help put ourselves in the right frame of mind, doing something prior to a nerve-racking event that will boost our energy, confidence and mood is a great idea. Whether it’s spending time with a friend who always makes us feel good after being in their presence, making sure to exercise or reading a passage from a book that reminds us of what is possible, be proactive and warm-up.

15. Speak Visually

Many people are visual learners, so painting a picture in their minds with your words by using analogies, metaphors, or imagery is a great idea. The key is to know your audience and their background so you can speak to ideas and concepts that they would quickly grasp and understand.

16. Be Humble

Humility is a core component to true charisma as in so doing you are being selfless and acknowledging those around you. Whether it is receiving a compliment, but also noting those who helped you achieve your success, or thanking someone for their compliment, but also their thoughtfulness to take the time to say so, you are involving others, and presenting a sincere humble demeanor which is always more attractive than the alternative.

17. Maintain Eye Contact

Being able to look someone in the eye while conversing with them not only tells them you have their full and undivided attention, but it also assures them that they are your top priority in that moment. And when someone feels important, they are more willing to work with you, engage with you and contribute in whatever way could potentially be beneficial for both parties.

Charisma is a powerful tool, and the good news is we can all possess it. The most important thing to keep in mind is to be aware of how we use it. Because when we use it for good, not only do our lives improve, but those around us as well.

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~10 Simple Ways to Be More Charismatic

~19 Ways to Master the Art of Conversation

~Why Not . . . Make Someone Feel Special?

Petit Plaisir:

~beecrowbee EssEnce Room & Linen Spray (lemon zest, lavender blossom, wild mint and garden herbs)

~Aroma Therapy All Natural Air & Linen Lavender Spray

~Mrs. Meyers Lavender Room Freshener

Make your own lavender linen spray:

mix 1 tsp lavender essential oil with 1/4 c. unflavored vodka
then add 3 1/2 cups of water
pour into a spray bottle

Images: (1)

The post 17 Habits to Become More Charismatic appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

View more on Shannon Ables's website »

Like • 0 comments • flag

Published on January 26, 2015 00:00

17 Habits to Become More Charisma