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!

There has been quite a bit of personal and professional growth, along with the growing pains. But, I wouldn’t change a bit of it. And I’m so happy with the results!

(They do say starting a business is the best course in personal development you can take, and I would not argue with that!)

I am sharing my 2012 Makeover with you with the intention of inspiring you to make even just one small change to begin your total transformation.

Lost 14 Pounds

In January, I went on a program to clear out allergies I’d been dealing with my whole life which required me to completely cut out sugar, gluten, dairy and alcohol. While my diet is no fun, I do find indulgences (chips + salsa), and I haven’t minded feeling like the incredible shrinking woman. 14 lbs later … (and I didn’t even think I had 14 to lose).

To be honest, I never would have gone on this diet if it weren’t for a bigger purpose.

However, I have never slept better, had more energy and felt more clear on a daily basis. The weight loss is a bonus, but I never thought I would weigh what I do now. In fact, I used to say that if I ever weighed this, you should give me a steak because it’s too skinny. But I love seeing my strong legs, abs and arms without the extra gift wrap. (Interesting how we create those stories for ourselves.)

The Takeaway: Eating a mostly clean diet has allowed me clarity, vitality and a healthier body fat %. Can you try cutting out gluten, sugar, or alcohol for a few days so you can note the difference? Just start with one small step …

Chopped my Hair

After growing out my hair for over 10 months (it was mermaid long!), I chopped it off so I could donate it to Locks of Love. By the time I cut it, I was MORE than ready for the change.

I will admit that I was a bit nervous when we were getting ready for the big chop, but I was confident in my decision and I was literally elated as soon as I heard the scissors cut. It felt like I literally let go of old patterns I was holding on to in my life.

The Takeaway: What have you been holding on to that has allowed you to get comfortable with the status quo? Can you let go? (hint: it’s not going to be overnight)

Bought some Fabulous New Clothes

I sometimes have the challenge of not feeling like shopping for myself after I’ve been shopping for everyone else. With this weight loss, I found I had to get a few new pieces and the rest I tend to tuck in/nip at the waist to give structure.

My all time favorite buy? White James skinny jeans for $50.

Oh, and all my Boutique Box inventory. I have LOVED working with these new designers, finding the clothes good homes, and indulging myself with some new pieces from these fabulous designers.

The Takeaway: I had REALLY been wanting some white skinnies, a new blouse and a new dress. Because I knew exactly what I wanted, I didn’t have to search it out. It’s almost as if they found me. Do you know EXACTLY what you want/need? Create a list.

Finally Got New Glasses!

I am obsessed. I had been looking at this picture on my Style Vision Board for over a year, but hadn’t had time to go out to find the perfect pair.

My mom was in town this past weekend and I had set the intention to find a pair of glasses with her (we’ve always loved shopping together). I happened into a little boutique on Third St. just to see what they had and didn’t really think I would find anything, but I found the PERFECT pair.
I put them on and I got a bit giggly. I knew they were my new glasses.

The Takeaway: Having a Style Inspiration (or Vision) Board helps you to get clarity on exactly what you want for your personal style (and lifestyle). Again, you’ll know exactly what you’re looking for
And, what I found is eerily close to this image.

Take a look for yourself … What do you think about the new glasses + hair?

In gratitude and style,
Catherine

Why do I love this? Let me count the ways …

It’s whimsical, yet so simple.

She’s not trying at all. She’s comfortable and classic.

Her hair – short and sweet. Since I recently chopped my hair, I can really appreciate how EASY short hair is for a busy woman.

She’s mixing prints and showing you how simple it is … it works because the colors in her top are also in her shorts.

Plus, now I really want her shorts!

Her sandals … not too gladiator in style to cut her legs off (visually shorten them), yet substantial enough to add additional visual interest to the outfit.

What a perfect, casual summer look. Probably doesn’t hurt that she has a new cutie BF to look cute for now.

What do you think? Has Michelle’s effortless everyday casual style inspired you to try a bit harder with your next casual look? I mean, you never know who you could run into at the grocery store, coffee shop or spa.

I do think that’s true. Especially as busy women juggling work, family, friends, volunteering, etc. The list goes on!

So, today I share with you my top three tips for finding ‘balance’ in your busy life as well as some ideas for implementing these tips.

I would love to hear how you find balance for yourself in your life. Please share below so you can inspire another woman.

Here’s to YOU living a life in STYLE!

Here you are:

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.

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!

For the Cook: A Stylish Apron

I especially love this for new mom’s who can then pass their aprons down to their daughters. I remember always borrowing my mom’s aprons when I was ‘helping’ her in the kitchen. Who say’s you can’t be stylish when you’re cooking? If your mom loves to cook and entertain, this is a fabulous gift! Click here for the Anthropologie apron to the right (and browse even more!).

For the Traveler: St. Barth’s

And by St. Barth’s I mean the new Calypso St. Barth’s collection that is now at Target. I mean, check outthe colors! How can that not make you happy and immediately transport you to that exotic locale? A little taste of St. Barth’s can add a lot of HAPPY to a busy mom’s day. Even if she just takes a moment to herself, you’ve succeeded!

For the Time-Starved: Her Own In-Home Spa Experience

If anyone deserves some time to indulge, it’s mom! Balancing it all gracefully and in style … how does she do it? This Burberry Cashmere robe is the ultimate indulgence, but anything comfy and cozy will do (I like Barefoot Dreams and my own robe is Lacoste). If you want to take it a step further, candles such as this ‘Inspire’ by Lollia. Voluspa is another of my favorites for candles. One step further, and if she has the space, create a vanity space for her to indulge in getting ready and feeling fabulous every day. You can either shop vintage at flea markets (much more time consuming) or check out Pottery Barn. Even Target has a great selection of vanities! Of course, along with creating her own in-home spa experience, you have to give mom the gift of TIME!

For the Out of Town Mom: A Visit

Mom probably doesn’t need anymore things in her closets and pantries, but one thing she can’t get enough of is YOU! Even if it’s an IOU for a plane ticket home or bringing her out to visit you while you keep a look out for fares to drop, what better gift? And, in the meantime, why not create a photo gift … whether it’s of you and your siblings, family memories or her grandkids … photo’s bring back memories and can make you feel nearby. If all your photos are digital, you can even simply upload them online, choose your gift, the layout and when you want to have it ready by and go pick it up. It’s that simple. And you can even have it shipped out to you if you want. I use Walgreens, but Rite Aid, CVS, etc. all have these services. Amazingly easy, thoughtful and time efficient. I love it!

For the ‘Lucky’ Mom: The Gift of Style

I may be a bit biased to this one, I admit, but I’ve seen first hand what the gift of style can do … not only for someone’s wardrobe and style, but for their confidence, their morning routine and their wallet! It’s knowing exactly what works for you so you don’t waste money on those ‘maybe’ pieces. Whether it’s a subscription to Vogue to inspire her style or to Lucky to show her ‘how to’ over the course of the year. Or, even the gift of U*styled! Conveniently, 21 Days of Style starts May 9th – just after Mother’s day. I promise I didn’t plan that! If you think mom needs a bit more one-on-one guidance, then an in-person style session may be the ticket. I bet you’ll be the new favorite child! Oh, right, mom doesn’t have a favorite.

Happy Shopping!!

Have you ever planned an outfit in your head and have 100% confidence that it will work … and then you go to try it on and … it doesn’t fit?!?!

So, that was me on Saturday. A great outfit I’ve even worn before was simply not quite right. Dang water weight! (I’ll blame it on that! )

However, fortunately, I can quickly pull myself together and create a plan B which is what I did and I had a ton of fun that night and felt great with what I was wearing.

Though, it did bring up some things that I’d thought I already wrestled away years ago … insecurities with my body. Can you relate?? In fact, it’s a bit of a blessing that this happened because now I’m aware I have some more work to do in that area.

That’s why today is all about Spring Cleaning … of your body, mind and Style!
(Psst! Take the time to read this all the way through. Trust me, you want to!)

BODY

I’m preparing to start a cleanse which I’ve never done before except for 3/4 of a day on the Master Cleanse. What drew me into the cleanse I’m starting is that it’s about eating clean and ridding toxins … not just losing weight. Also, it’s 21 days. So, it’s a real commitment to making changes and creating a habit. I’ve always been mindful of what I eat and would say I eat pretty healthy, but there is always room for improvement since no one is perfect (and I have a serious weakness for Trader Joe’s Gone Banana’s!).

A cleanse can be a great way to hit ‘reset’ on your diet and health while helping you to lose those stubborn 5-10 pounds (or more!). And this doesn’t mean depriving yourself. While you can’t have a glass of wine with dinner and you’ll have to skip dessert, you’ll still be getting plenty of calories and a ton of nutrients.

A few fantastic resources …

CLEAN with Dr. Alejandro Junger For more information, click here. I was drawn to this one because I’ve developed allergies in the last couple of years and I want to discover the culprit. Plus, it’s ‘do it yourself’!

Be Well Jump Start Cleanse If you need a bit more support and want to have it all laid out clearly, including supplements then check out this cleanse (starting tomorrow!) here.

MIND

Where is your mindset around your body, health, style and life? Be honest with yourself. As I admitted, I still have a lot of work to do on my body image (and in other areas!) which is why knowing how to dress my body type and style myself with confidence is so important.

Also, having a great team around you to support you. This can be a mastermind group, a health coach, a trainer, a stylist, a financial advisor, your parents or your significant other … depending on what area needs a bit of Spring Cleaning.

For me, it’s my body and since most women have similar hang ups, I thought I’d share this with you.

I was meditating Sunday morning, after the wardrobe and weight frustration of Saturday night and my boyfriend interrupted me. Usually that would annoy me, but I just went with it … and he shared with me something I have to share with you. A few inspired affirmations that every woman needs to hear and know and repeat over and over …

You love your body.

Being a woman is empowering.

You are losing weight as we speak!

You are confident in your body.

Write those down!!

A few things you can do for yourself to remind yourself that you’re amazing and deserve to live a life in Style:

Join a Wine of the Month club. For as low as $50, you can treat yourself to an amazing bottle of wine (or 2) a month. Share it with a special someone (if you feel like sharing, which you don’t have to!)

Grab a girlfriend and take a hike. Nothing like a little masterminding in Nature to work through any challenges you’ve been experiencing. Even if you go by yourself, you’ll probably do some good healing. This is one of my key resources when I need a re-boot to my attitude.

Spa day! For a nominal fee you can go enjoy the amenities of a Spa. If you need a massage, but don’t want to spend a fortune, seek out the massage schools in your town. For a nominal fee you can get an outstanding, restorative massage.

STYLE

Well, by now I probably don’t even need to go into detail with Style since I’ve shared so much over the weeks. Personally, I go through my closet at least every three months. Because I’m consistent, it’s never a huge ordeal. It’s actually quick, easy and fun. I love how it feels to have new space in the closet so I can welcome in my new favorite Wardrobe Updates.

A few quick tips for a Stylish Spring Cleaning:
* Go category by category to cleanse and edit
* Be honest about fit
* Add color!!!
* Define your waist (or create one, as the case may be)

Because we’re now in full swing of Spring, I decided to have another round of 21 Days of Style which will start on May 9th!

Check out this video I made for you below AND the amazing offer I share!!

What do you think?? Can you tell I’m a bit excited?

What’s more, I hope that you’re feeling inspired to do a bit of Spring Cleaning … wherever it will benefit you most. I would love to hear how you were inspired and took action!

And what a good exercise that is!!

Have you ever done a presentation or worked on a project that you thought after the fact ‘I wish I had done that this way’ only to have others praise your work?

Perhaps you’ve taken it a step further and reviewed said presentation or project after the fact and realized ‘hey, I actually did do a really great job!’

Can you relate?

If you can, you’re a perfectionist on some level. And it’s pretty hard to be perfect all the time, isn’t it??

It’s so draining!

I’m pretty sure as women, we’re all perfectionists on some level. Taking it all on, doing it all ourselves … for everyone else … and rarely asking for help.

The thing is, there is beauty in this. Beauty in realizing that your flaws are actually your unique assets. They set you apart. What would Cindy Crawford be without her mole?? Beyonce without her bootliciosness? I think you get the picture!

How about a Stylist who would doesn’t feel like getting dressed in the morning?
I will be the first to admit that there are many days I would rather stay in my favorite Lululemon yoga pants or robe instead of having to plan an outfit and get out the door to face the day. And if I don’t have to head out the door for anything, I will give myself the space to be comfortable.

Though, the inner debutante in me does come out. I will admit that as well. I prefer to be pulled together. It makes me feel better about myself. It makes me feel more myself. Rarely will you see me leave the house without makeup. Even for a workout. I can’t help it! It’s part of who I am. If you always see me pulled together and polished, it’s because it’s how I feel most confident.

But since I’m like you and I don’t have a team of people doing my hair and makeup in the morning, I do the best with what I have. I’ve learned tips and tricks over the years. And they make all the difference.

When I say ‘throw it on and go!’ … I really mean that!!

You’re busy. You don’t have time for a whole fuss, but you do care about how you present yourself to the world.

My tricks for getting out the door on those mornings when I’m feeling more like yoga pants and a good book? A quick makeup routine with my trusty makeup bag staples, my amazing hair dryer (the most I’ve ever spent on one, but worth every penny!) and my uniform.

Uniform? Yes, I’m a tee-shirt and jeans girl at heart. So, my uniform is a variation on that each day. It changes depending on which pants I want to wear – straight leg, skinny or trouser? It changes depending on how formal the occasion – tee shirt, blouse or jacket? It changes depending on the weather – hot, lukewarm or cold? It changes depending on my mood – blue, red, pink, navy or purple? And it changes depending simply on my accessories!

Accessories are key!!! A look can completely change it’s attitude depending on the accessories. And they’re the simplest thing to add!

So, what does it’ come down to when you’re not feeling it yet you’ve got to get out the door? Your uniform and some accessories! Simple as that. Please don’t make it more complicated. And if you have yet to discover your uniform or want to add more variety and fun, that’s where an expert comes into play. Trust me, it’s taken me years to get to this point of comfort and ease with my style and my unique assets. Especially considering all those mornings of ‘UGH!’ with my wardrobe. Do yourself a favor and shorten your learning curve!

My unique assets I’ve had to learn to love? My hair (which wasn’t always curly) and my bum (which was definitely always bubbly). And I still have my moments with both! We’re always learning.

Where is the fun in being perfect, anyway!?!