Style Story: Elaine Bailey

Submitted by on February 19, 2012 - 11:55 pm

I’m constantly getting request for before and after segments and I usually hold back because I tend to think my clients start off in a pretty good place and I take them to a pretty great place with their style. I make it that much more effortless and clearly defined. Also, I’d rather it be their request to be profiled.

So, today’s your lucky day because Elaine is excited to share her transformation with you to inspire you to take action!! You can thank Elaine. :)

I first discussed working with Elaine in November of 2010. She felt she had to get her business in a certain place before working on her wardrobe. Then, almost exactly a year later, she was at a place where she HAD to act on upleveling her wardrobe or image. She was practically bursting out of her current look and ready to completely transform.

And transform she did!

Here she is before (on stage at an event sharing her business success because she is a pretty smart lady):

I asked Elaine to share a bit about this experience of completely upleveling her wardrobe and look so you could get it directly from her, unedited.

 

What was the tipping point that made you hire a stylist?
I felt tired with my look and it felt incongruent with who I was becoming on the inside. I always seemed to buy the same style because it felt safe. I didn’t feel that I had anything beautiful to wear when I was in public.

Can you share a bit about the process/experience itself? How you felt going through it?
I remember the excitement of going through my closet and letting go of all the crap that was in there! It’s amazing what you cling on to and how it holds you back. I gave away 95%. It was like being given a new blank canvas to paint on. Having someone to guide and support me through my choices, as I reinvented my look. I was learning new things about myself every session.

I remembered being nervous to open the first online boxes when they arrived because I’d never really enjoyed clothes shopping before. This turned to excitement and joy as Catherine helped me to see a totally different person in the mirror! She was confident and beautiful. For the first time in ages people noticed and commented on how I looked when I was in public. It was amazing!

What is the most valuable benefit you’ve gotten out of the experience?
I feel lighter, relaxed, confident and more comfortable in my skin. I feel like I’m standing in my natural power, as a woman and I feel congruent with who I really am.

How about the second most valuable benefit? ;)
I open my closet and smile every day as I see my clothes hanging there waiting to be chosen. There’s nothing in my closet that I don’t like or won’t wear. I LOVE my clothes and I feel great wearing them.

What do you do differently now that you have this knowledge?
I walk taller and confidently in my day-to-day life. I have learned to match and accessorize to create different looks for different occasions.

How do you feel getting dressed every day and for those VIP events?
I feel more aligned and congruent with who I really am from the inside-out. My outside now reflects my inside! I feel confident, relaxed and authentic and have a totally different energy. I get to be the real me!

Tell me a bit about your business and how your new branding/upgraded style has impacted it.

I’m the President and Founder of Elaine Bailey International Ltd, a company devoted to coaching people into their best lives. I mentor busy successful people to move away from the chaos and overwhelm of settling and surviving. I offer them a whole new approach to productivity, business and lifestyle based my own self-leadership principles that I live every day!

Your success is strongly influenced by your ability to change and grow. You are what you think and this is reflected in how you present yourself to the outside world. My upgraded styling has enabled me to reflect my true authentic self from the inside out. Recent pictures from a photoshoot has generated lots of comments and interest in what I do.

Tell me a bit about your upcoming program.

WorkBrilliant VIP Spotlight Session – Do you have an idea that you’d like to work on or a roadblock that is keeping you stuck? Sometimes we all need a little help, a sounding board to bounce thoughts and ideas off or someone to help us blast through our challenges. This is for busy people who don’t want to invest in a coach long term just now, but have a specific need that they’d like to have a ONE-OFF SESSION to blast through.

The VIP Spotlight focuses on YOUR specific need and helps you to move forward and take conscious action towards your goal. This is for a limited time only! (Normally I only work with clients for a minimum of 6 months!).

Normal Price is US$750**

** Special U*styled discount available! Use code CC1 and if booked before midnight on February, 27 2012 it’s only $350 for the session).

What’s included:

1. Complimentary 20 min getting acquainted call – so that you can get a feel for me and that we are a perfect-match. To explore your needs for the session. This also ensures that we can hit the ground running and maximize the potential of our time together.

2. Two hours of personal mentoring via Skype or face-to-face in Shaftesbury, Dorset, England. You get my full attention and focus on a specific area of your life, business or work that could benefit from some further thinking, with actionable results.

 

Sound like a fit? Email Elaine at info@elainebaileyinternational.com to arrange a Getting Acquainted Call.

 

Oh, about that ‘After’ pic …

    

If you think you’re ready for your own transformation and maybe just want to dip your toes in and get some guidance, I’ve got just the thing for you!

Click here for more info on U*styled’s Virtual Style Session (for a limited time!).

 

Yoga pants that will make you WANT to work out.

Submitted by on February 14, 2012 - 4:57 pm

It’s true.

I was desperately in need of a new pair of workout leggings since the ones I’d had since HS (again, it’s true!) had lived a good life. I’d just not had the chance to get to Lululemon and get some. Thank goodness for the Daily Candy Deal that popped up in my inbox that led me to my amazing new Tanya B leggings from Yoga Clothing’

I’m in love. I can’t wait for my next Piloxing class! They suck me in at all the right place (ahem, inner thighs!) and seemingly lift my bum! What girl doesn’t want a perkier bum? Maybe it’s my imagination, but they’re basically workout Spanx. Done deal!

I love my Lulus, but I’m also loving this website. So many cute tops and bottoms, so you can have style even when you work out. Yes, I do coordinate my outfit to go to the gym and I always have. What can I say? I was born this way! ;)

I encourage you to, as well. No matter what you’re doing, when you look good, you feel good. And you will feel even better after a great workout!

I think either or both would make great Valentine’s day gifts to yourself, don’t you. ;)

Wishing you a beautiful day filled with the ones you love.

 

YOUR Style Can be Easy & Effortless, too!

Submitted by on - 3:07 am

AND, working with a Personal Stylist IS accessible and approachable.

Yes, it’s true. I cannot tell a lie. (Seriously, I can’t, I’m a horrible liar.)


Here’s how it is:

Virtual Styling Sessions via Skype or Facetime.

I’ve worked with many ongoing clients who don’t live in LA virtually for a few years now and I have a love/hate relationship with the technology. For one, I love being IN your closet and finding your hidden treasures and giving you new ways to wear them. For two, I really really like my clients and I love getting to see them!

However, all of my packages and programs are inspired by my current clients and my potential clients and I’m constantly working to figure out the best way I can serve YOU.

A conversation with a new client made me realize that all you may need is a bit of style coaching and you’ll be ready to take the reins and run with it. In fact, I do believe that my clients innately do know what’s best for them, they just need affirmation that they’re on the right track and a bit of guidance to make it all easier.

Drumroll, please: Introducing (for a limited time) Virtual Style Sessions!

Take 45 minutes to get clarity on your personal brand of style, what quick and easy adjustments you can make to your style, what pieces you MUST have in your wardrobe and, most importantly, where to find them easily and effortlessly. (Hint: this last piece saves you TIME and MONEY) You also get your own personalized Style File from the session. All for only $95.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you, indeed. ;)

Seriously, in just 45 minutes you could completely transform your style. So, if you’re ready to have an effortless style just like First Lady Michelle Obama …

Click here if you’re ready for your Style Session.  

How it works:

You’ll get an email confirmation, we’ll schedule the appointment, you’ll fill out a quick survey and we’ll get down to transforming your style in 45 minutes. Then, when we’re all done, I’ll send you your Personal Style File so that you can reference my hints, tips and resources for you. Easy peasy!

PS. For these virtual styling sessions, the offer is good for the first 10 people to step up in style or until 2/21/12, whichever comes first. So, don’t delay if you could use a boost in your style tool belt!

Inspired Style: 2012 Golden Globes

Submitted by on January 19, 2012 - 1:53 am

It’s officially awards season and you know what that means … gorgeous gowns!!

This year, instead of simply oo-ing and aww-ing over the gowns, I wanted to take it one step further for you to help you discover your own personal inner style.

Here is my breakdown of some of the best looks and what they say about your style. You don’t have to pick one favorite. You can have a few. You likely don’t have one facet to your style, but a menagerie of influences. This will help you identify those so you know better when you go shopping and/or style what you’ve already got in your closet. As Oprah so wisely says: “When you know better, you do better.”

AngelinaJolie_GoldenGlobe12

Femme Fatale

CharlizeTheron_GoldenGlobe12

Subtly Sexy Classic with a Twist (love how they accessorized with the broach)

DianaAgron_GoldenGlobe12

Screen Siren

EmmaStone_GoldenGlobe12

Edgy Sophisticate

EvanRachelWood_GoldenGlobe12

Drama Queen!

EveMavrakis

Condifent Intellectual

HeidiKlum_GoldenGlobe12

Quirky Elegance (play with color!)

JessicaAlba_GoldenGlobe12

Glamour

JulianneMoore_GoldenGlobe12

Flirty and Feminine with just a bit of Serious Sophistication

LauraDern_GoldenGlobes12

Elegant Chic Confidence

MichelleWilliams_GoldenGlobe12

Classic Retro who marches to the beat of her own drum.

NicoleKidman_GoldenGlobe12

Chic Classic with a bit of Art Deco flair

ReeseWitherspoon_GoldenGlobe12

Classic yet Bold and Playful

RooneyMara_GoldenGlobe12

Provacative yet Intellectual Style

SalmaHayek_GoldenGlobe12

Classic yet Unpredictable with a little Bohemian thrown in for good measure

TildaSwinton_GoldenGlobe12

Fearless and Cutting Edge

ZooeyDeschenal_GoldenGlobe12

Quirky, Bright and Playful

Femme FataleSubtly Sexy Classic with a Twist (love how they accessorized with the broach)Screen SirenEdgy SophisticateDrama Queen!Condifent IntellectualQuirky Elegance (play with color!)GlamourFlirty and Feminine with just a bit of Serious SophisticationElegant Chic ConfidenceClassic Retro who marches to the beat of her own drum.Chic Classic with a bit of Art Deco flairClassic yet Bold and PlayfulProvacative yet Intellectual StyleClassic yet Unpredictable with a little Bohemian thrown in for good measureFearless and Cutting EdgeQuirky, Bright and Playful

So, what was the outcome for you? Write down the list of descriptors you have and see if it resonates with you. Take note of what elements you loved (or hated) about the styles. This gives you insight into colors, fabrics, silhouettes, and feeling you go for with your style. Finally, see if you can come up with STYLE phrase that is uniquely yours. For instance, Quirky Classic, Mexican Resort Eclectic, etc. Then, when you go shopping, keep this phrase in the back of your mind so you only buy pieces you love and feel like you and YOUR style!

If you look at these women in their magnificence, I hope you realize that it took a team to help them get ready for this one event. Experts in each field – hair, makeup, style and even fitness and nutrition. Having all that help makes the whole endeavor a lot less time consuming, a whole lot easier and the experience way more fun. If you’d like your own version of the experience for a fraction of the price, check out U*styled’s TOTAL TRANSFORMATION package and you’ll get your own team of experts making your life and style a whole lot easier and way more fun!

Transform your Style and Transform your Career

Submitted by on November 5, 2011 - 1:45 am

It could be a bold statement to make, but the facts support it. Transform your style and transform your career.

85% of our communication is physical.

So, you’re communicating before you even open your mouth and share your thoughts. You’re communicating via your body language and your presentation.

The colors you wear, the way your clothes fit, the finishing touches on your style – accessories, hair and makeup – all of that contributes to how you’re perceived by those you meet.

It also contributes to how you feel about yourself.

Wearing dark and dreary colors do nothing to lift your mood when you need it. Ill fitting clothes do nothing for how you feel about your body. Ignoring the finishing touches with your accessories, hair and makeup definitely doesn’t make you feel any prettier.

Not to say this is about being pretty or beautiful.

But it is about feeling fabulous, confident and like you can take on the world! THAT is how your style has the power to transform your career. Because YOU transform.

When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you look good.

It’s definitely a cycle and it’s one I love helping my clients create for themselves.

Most of my clients actually come to me in a pretty good place. They’re simply frustrated and not 100% confident about certain things. They need the finishing touches: how to dress for their body type, what colors bring out their personality, what accessories go with what, what are the missing pieces in their wardrobe, how to mix and match so the options are endless within their wardrobe.

They need clarity around what their own personal brand of style is and like snowflakes, there is no one alike.

It’s empowering to know these things about yourself.

It’s simplifying as well.

You don’t feel the constant need to find pieces  to fill a void (that isn’t actually there). You only buy new pieces you LOVE or need.

Your style and wardrobe becomes timeless because it is an extension of who you are and not an homage to the trends of the season.

You know what to wear each morning and, better yet, you know what you WANT to wear each morning.

If you do one thing to make you look as good as you feel, take the time to put on the finishing touches – accessories, hair styling and a bit of makeup.

If you do two things, go through the latest fashion/women’s magazines with the intention of pulling looks and items that excite you and feel like an extension of you. Create your style inspiration board to define and guide your style evolution.

And if you’re feeling ambitious and would like to learn all of the above, I encourage you check out U*styled’s Total Transformation package. We will audit your closet, style your closet and then whisk you away for a bit of shopping for your newly streamlined closet. And that’s just the STYLE portion of the package. As you know, I believe you deserve to live a life in style and this package gives you ALL the tools to do that for yourself.

To YOUR styled life!


Inspired Style: Nancy Shevell’s Wedding Dress

Submitted by on October 14, 2011 - 7:16 pm

Some things just never go out of style. Some things should never come BACK into style.

Style itself, however, is a bit tricky to define. What makes something stylish?

Is style INNATE? An ESSENCE? Or LEARNED?

Ultimately, it’s all of that and more. it’s not the dress, but the woman in the dress. Not what you wear, but how YOU wear it.

THAT is why the simple beauty of Nancy Shevell’s wedding dress, designed by her now stepdaughter, Stella McCartney, is so perfect.

Clean lines, elegant details and a beautiful silhouette highlight her natural beauty and radiance. There are no bells and whistles; no statements. Simply style.

Fitting that the dress was inspired by none other than Style Icon Wallis Simpson’s wedding dress when she became the Duchess of Windsor:

And now I’ve got a treat for you! I met a brilliant designer here in LA whose Maria dress gives you the clean lines, elegant details and beautiful silhouette that allowed Nancy and Wallis to shine. Even better, it comes in colors other than white. And while Nancy’s choice of a shorter hemline was appropriate for a second marriage, this would be great for a rehearsal dinner or bridal shower or even simply every day as well. I can’t get over how beautiful the fabric itself is (I’m one of those people who walks through stores touching everything for the hand feel of the fabric)!

For more info on Garbe Luxe and to order, visit their website and check out their lookbook. I’m obsessed with their silk shirts!

http://www.garbeluxe.com/

To YOUR Inspired Style!

My Style is my Armor

Submitted by on July 8, 2011 - 9:41 pm

One summer, while I was home from college, I was going through some of the artwork and such that my parents had saved from when my brothers and I were very young. I found my Kindergarten report card! I was taken aback when I read: “Catherine is a little ray of sunshine, but she is really shy.”

It really hit home.

I’ve always been labeled as confident and outgoing, but I’ve also always been painfully shy. All of this is true. I love meeting new people and hearing your stories, but sometimes getting to that point pushes me way outside of my comfort zone. It’s my confidence and my determination that has allowed me to push through the shyness. But it’s always been there.

I was sharing this anecdote about my Kindergarten report card with a friend last week and it dawned on me why my style and empowering women through personal style is such a passion of mine.

It’s been my armor in moments of shyness.

When I switched from Catholic to public school in 5th grade, I carefully chose the outfit for my 5th grade photo. And I still remember the outfit I wore for my first day of school when we then moved from a Detroit suburb to a Chicago suburb (again, in 5th grade). I still remember some of my favorite outfits from that year in transition.

Not to mention, the power of color through those formative years. Blue was always a mainstay. I had one shirt I would wear probably once a week. It was a deep blue and, again, it made me feel confident and pretty. Who cares if I didn’t have as many clothes as everyone else. I still carefully picked out my outfit each day to make me feel good.

And then, thinking about what I wore when I was working corporate … and the lack of color in those wardrobes! Even when I’d try to punch it up, the lack of color is a clear indicator of how bored I was. Though I loved my job as a merchandiser at BCBG (for the most part), I need a bigger challenge – a bigger purpose.

Still, to this day, when I go to networking events or even speak in front of groups, it’s putting me way outside of my comfort zone. You know what? That’s OK. For one, it’s pushing me to grow and expand and I know it’s not about me. It’s about YOU. Plus, I have on my coat of armor and I know I look great. And that’s where my confidence comes from.

Are you hiding in your clothes or do you have your own personal coat of armor? If you need some bravado, start small and add some color. I promise it will give you a boost of confidence.

ESSENCEntial Style

Submitted by on July 7, 2011 - 8:27 pm

I passionately believe that every woman deserves (and should) work with a stylist. While some women need the constant support because of their demanding schedules, others need the tools and can (and want) to do it on their own.

And those style tools are PRICELESS!

I want to dispel a myth … once you hire a stylist, you shouldn’t feel like you’re connected to them for life and can never buy another piece or put together an outfit for an important event (or even just day to day) without them. You should look for a stylist who can teach what works for you so that you can style yourself every day.

Style Icon Audrey Hepburn knew her ESSENCEntial Style

After all, true style is really about confidence. And confidence comes from knowing who you truly are and showing up as that amazing woman every day.

Style is NOT about the trends and dressing in looks that you feel like you SHOULD be wearing because that’s what everyone else is. Of course, there is what is appropriate for an occasion. But there is also what’s TRUE to YOU.

Style is an extension of you. An expression of yourself. It greets people before you even have an opportunity to introduce yourself.

Having the tools to create your personal style means …

  • Knowing which colors work best for you and why
  • Understanding the meaning of color and how it affects your mood (and how others perceive you)
  • Being able to pull together a stunning outfit easily and effortlessly each morning
  • Knowing the pieces to add to your wardrobe to add depth and value for maximum mix & match-ability
  • Understanding what works for your body type and how to really flatter your best assets to make you look and FEEL amazing!
  • Realizing it’s not about a shopping spree to build a wardrobe; it’s about having a closet full of clothes you LOVE
  • Having a great wardrobe doesn’t mean having a large wardrobe
  • Knowing that your style is continually evolving as you grow and develop personally

Above all, having the tools to create your personal style makes fashion FUN instead of frustrating.

NEVER AGAIN will you shop last minute for an outfit for an event.

You will ALWAYS have a perfect outfit, no matter how your weight is fluctuating this week.

Isn’t that simply amazing???

And you can learn all this and more in a quick 90 minute Style Session!!

We will:

  • Determine your personal and branding colors
  • Style 10-12 outfits per your lifestyle & career needs (with possibilities of mixing & matching to upwards of 50 outfits!!)
  • Establish your ‘Elements of an Outfit’ so you can always quickly pull together the perfect outfit for an occasion
  • Create your own Personal Style Statement

As a BONUS, I give you:

  • A ‘Wardrobe you Love Action Plan’ so you know exactly what you need to add to your wardrobe, and in prioritized order
  • Your Personal Style File including detailed notes and pictures from our session
  • U*styled’s coveted Closet 911: A Guide to Build a Wardrobe you Love

All this for just $300!!

If this sounds perfect for you, then simply email me directly at catherinec@ustyled.com and we’ll set up your appointment and get you started living your life in style!!

Maybe you’re not in the place for this yet, but you know of someone who would be interested in this fabulous opportunity. If so, please pass this along to them. I know they would be so grateful!!

To your Stylish life!!

Catherine

Style Essentials for Being in the Spotlight

Submitted by on July 1, 2011 - 10:28 pm

If you’ve been following U*styled’s tips you may have gathered by now that I like to be prepared well in advance for any situation. I rarely shop last minute for an event and have planned out an outfit well in advance. Even if I haven’t settled on an outfit, I know what works with what in my wardrobe and can quickly throw together something appropriate and stunning. Last minute shopping is the biggest culprit for a closet full of clothes that you never wear. This is why I am so adamant about BUILDING a wardrobe that works for you, which is exactly what I do for my clients and WHY I teach them how to build outfits from what they already own before we even go shopping.

Whether it’s getting ready for your own photoshoot, a conference or workshop your hosting, a networking event or a special occasion, with these Style Essentials you will have exactly what you need. So, it all becomes easy and effortless!

Style Essentials for Being in the Spotlight

Take a quick inventory of your wardrobe. Does it pass the test of including these essentials for wardrobe that really works FOR you? If not, take note and start of list of items that would be great additions for your life and style.

1) Color
Black, brown, navy, cream and khaki are great for building a base for your outfits. However, these are colors that are appropriate for your Closet Essentials, not your statement pieces. If you lack color in your wardrobe, take some time to consider what colors you are always drawn to and why. Color has meaning and it will influence your mood and how others perceive you. Plus, it makes you stand out. Every outfit should have at least one pop of color; even if it’s a simple accessory or even your shoes or handbag. If your outfit lacks color, it lacks personality.

2) Quality
If you’ve got a closet full of clothes and are only wearing 20% of it, you’re wasting a LOT of money AND time! No wonder you don’t know where to start when it comes to getting ready for an event. No wonder you always revert back to the same old outfit. Now, I’m all for a uniform STYLE, but not wearing the same thing simply because you know it’s appropriate and you just want to get out the door.

One step further, in terms of quality, is the literal quality of your clothes. Better quality fabrics and designs will look better on you. They drape better, fit better and FEEL better. Comfort and fit are both key when you’re in the spotlight and quality clothes will give you both.

3) Your Foundation

These are your closet staples. Having a great foundation – your basic suiting pieces, great dresses, perfect pumps, a few great accessories, etc. – ensures that you can always pull together an outfit at the last minute. All you need to do is add a pop of color and you’re done!

Even more, if you have a great foundation, then every piece you buy is a Wardrobe Update. A Wardrobe Update is a piece that adds even more versatility to your wardrobe. Often, it’s in color and a more unique item, but always it’s something you buy because you LOVE it and not because you’re trying to fill a void. You can already imagine the places you’ll wear it to and some of the pieces in your wardrobe that you want to try it with.

If you are aware of these three aspects to Building a Wardrobe you Love, then you are well on your way to shining in the spotlight.

If you feel like you could use some more guidance to figuring this out on your own, then I’d encourage you to check out my new and improved day packages. I am so excited about how these are restructured as they are essentially customized to your needs. I’ve been paying attention to what you’ve been asking for and this gives it to you … and more!

Now, get out there and let that light of your shine!

Feel as Good as you Look!

Submitted by on May 21, 2011 - 5:41 pm

All my life I’ve been an athlete. It started with tee-ball and grew into softball. I tried soccer (not so good) and basketball (still love, but was much better at defense!). I ran track and cross country and even tried the high jump. Apparently, this white woman CAN’T jump. But, I’m OK with that. I like to try new things. In high school, I used to go for a rollerblade instead of a run. I liked it because I could go farther (and faster!).

Ultimately, I fell in love with Lacrosse. And I was really good at it! Somehow, my poor depth perception wasn’t a hindrance. And the fact that I good endurance and could kick it up into a sprint was really helpful on offense whereas for track and cross country, I couldn’t find my home.

Since I was allowed to join my parents gym (you had to be 16), I worked out at least 5-6 days a week up until just over a year ago. I didn’t feel my best unless I worked out. It was my stress relief. As a type-A personality, that’s important! I loved weight lifting and I was often the only girl. It was incredibly empowering to work out on my own amongst the men … and sometimes show them up! I’d even impressed my fair share of personal trainers with my dedication and stamina.

I’ve even run two marathons.

Yet, somehow, I practically completely stopped working out aside from a bit of pilates or a random hike.

Life happened.

Can you relate?

The last couple of months I’ve been working to get myself back into a routine. While I’m happy with my body (which is a first, and I still have my moments of regressing back to NOT being happy with my body!), I do miss the ability to run for 45 minutes and have it feel like nothing. Or, bench press 40 lbs. like no big deal. And, while I’ve NEVER liked running uphill, I missed being able to hike the tough 90-minute Griffith hike without taking a break.

Slowly, but surely, I started upping my consistency. The key is to start small. If you’re not doing anything, start by taking the stairs or getting in as much walking as possible. (Full disclosure: I walk a LOT for work. Shopping IS exercise, but it’s NOT strength or interval training) Start with 1 x per week and increase to 2 x per week, etc.

5 Quick & Easy Ways to Work out:

1) Grab a Girlfriend
Instead of a coffee or lunch date, why not schedule a power walk, a gym date or a hike? If you’re going to spend an hour or an hour and a half, it’s a MUCH more productive use of your time. As a busy woman, don’t you LOVE killing the hypothetical two birds with one stone? I do! In the beginning, this was the only way I’d get my butt out the door for a good workout.

2) Intervals
Whether cardio or weight lifting, you don’t need more than 20 minutes to get in a really good workout. The key is intensity and productive rests. So, if you jog for three minutes and sprint for 1 minute, the jog is your rest. If you’re lifting one muscle group use your break for that group to work a complimentary muscle group. Check out Body for Life for Women: A Woman’s Plan for Physical and Mental Transformation.I think the title says it all, but the book includes a variety of 20 minute interval workouts to get you started. Seriously, it just takes 20 minutes and some dumbbells or running shoes!

3) Mix it UP!
Don’t do the same thing every day. Keep your body guessing and really work your muscles. Plus, you don’t get bored! Run, then yoga, then BOX, then weight lift, then run, etc. I personally LOVE boxing (not that I could actually ever really hit anybody) and would go once a week in the prime of my corporate stress levels. Again, it only takes 20 minutes a day! And by trying new things, you can actually make fitness a fun and empowering challenge.

4) All she wants to do is dance, dance, DANCE!
Grab your girlfriends (and maybe your guy) and go OUT to dance. You get to hang out with your friends and, again, get in some exercise. Now, in this scenario you’ll have to mind how many drinks you have, but it’s SO much fun. Even if you’re not good. My friends used to call me Catherine ‘I just wanna dance’ Cassidy … and I’ve definitely had no formal training past my 4th grade tap class!

5) Sneak it in
When you’re cooking and waiting at the stove, sneak in a few sets of squats. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Any excuse to walk, take it! Dance all out when your favorite song comes on your iTunes. You get the picture! My freshman year of college I lived on the 5th floor of the dorm and I took the stairs pretty much every time I came home. I also never gained weight (until I graduated college, but that’s a different story!). Are there opportunities like that for you? Seize them!

Above all else, have FUN with fitness. It’s about seeing how strong and capable you are. It’s an opportunity to love your body even more. And even if you’re not at your ‘ideal weight,’ stop worrying about it. You are exactly where you need to be right now. Embrace where you are, who you are and just savor every moment. I promise you’ll be loving every ounce of your body. And that’s a bold promise!

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