Getting a J-O-B: Putting Your Best Foot Forward

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“Be a yardstick of quality.  Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.” – Steve Jobs

Hello there, friends!
 
It’s no big surprise when we hear that people are having a difficult time finding work these days. Fortunately, I’ve been able to find a career that I’m totally in love with AND utilizes the skills that I’ve picked up along the way.  I’ll be the first to admit – it wasn’t easy!  I had a string of totally unrelated jobs before I found one that I actually like – and I couldn’t do it without tons of hard work, dedication, and a great support system.
 
One of these random stints included a position in human resources.  The tidbits of information below are based on my past experience in this field – some of which I think aren’t really considered by many job seekers. I’m hoping that it will help those of you that are feeling a little down ‘n out about your current job search:

• Research the company that you are interested in.  We are in the age of technology – use it!  Look up the company on the web and peruse their site.   What is their mission statement or policies?  Who is their CEO?  What have they accomplished in the past, and most recently?  Learn about them from the inside-out!  It seems pretty annoying, but it definitely helps in writing your resume/cover letter and answering those tricky questions during an interview.    
• Have a well-written and professional resume.  This one seems like a given, but you’d be surprised at some of the resumes that people send!  If you’re not a great writer, it may help to hire some outside help or ask a smart friend or relative.  Yes, I said smart!  Someone who is articulate and can write comprehensive sentences.  If you’re writing your own resume, ask this smart friend/relative to proofread it for spelling and grammar errors.  Readers, please:  DO NOT skip this step.  I repeat:  DO NOT SKIP PROOFREADING.  Asking someone else will help you see the errors that you probably missed. I once saw a resume that he/she wanted a job in “pubic relations.”  Another addressed a cover letter to “Mr. Brain Frieze.”  I mean, really?  Needless to say, these minor (yet major) errors caused these applicants to be filed under “No Thanks!”  Why would an employer hire someone who didn’t even care to spell a name correctly?  Always proofread!  (Always!)  
• Dress for success – EVERY DAY.  Every day!  You don’t have to wear a suit and tie on your daily coffee or grocery run, but try to look your best at all times.  If you’re currently out of work or looking to change careers, you never know who you will run into that can lead you to a fantastic opportunity.   It might also help to wear clothes that reflects the job that you’re pursuing.  An added bonus:  it’ll make you feel great! Looking like you just rolled out of bed with last night’s dinner on your mouth or clothes will not attract potential employers.  
• Be prepared for interviews.  Looking your best is especially important for interviews. Keep your clothes conservative, make sure they’re ironed, and each piece matches.  Please stay away from bright or neon colors and super revealing short skirts or shirts.  Guys, wear a tie!  Ladies, avoid open-toed shoes.  It’s actually against some dress code policies,especially at huge corporations or agencies.  Also, be comfortable!  When buying interview clothes, try them on, walk in them, sit down in the dressing room and assess if this is appropriate for an interview.  It sounds silly, but the ability to move your arms or sitting without revealing the top of your tube socks will prevent sudden embarrassment, believe me.  If you can, purchase a portfolio or folder to put your paperwork (such as a hard copy of your resume) and bring working pens.  Nothing is worse than fumbling through a unorganized bag during an interview -and/or- pulling a copy of your folded resume out of your back pocket!  Just don’t do it to yourself.  (P.S. – Invest in some dress socks…)
•  Have references available.  Friends are great as personal references, but having professional references (namely former employers and/or colleagues) are extremely important.  Always ask someone before you use them as a reference – this way, they’d be on the look out for a phone call or e-mail.  Also, it’s just the right thing to do!  Make sure you have their contact information (job title included) before you send your resume to a potential employer or prior to an interview.  If requested, you’ll have their information readily available.  (Students: Don’t hesitate to ask former/current professors!)
• Stand out.  While you’re looking for work or that new career, build your resume!  You can volunteer at a company that is relative to your field or get a certificate that would improve your skills. You are up against many, many, MANY people out there – being a memorable applicant is key.  If you can swing it, go back to school!  Why not?  Life is too short to settle.    
• Don’t lose hope.  I know that looking for a job can be a daunting and tedious process.  If six or more months have gone by and you haven’t landed a gig, it may help to hire a headhunter, re-work your resume or consider a new plan of action.   Think positive, act positive and surround yourself with encouraging people.  Something will come up!  Even if it’s not your first choice, it may lead you to somewhere great, or, at the very least, be a temporary fix while you still look for that perfect job of yours. 

xoxo andrea

Perfecting the Perfect Relationship…

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“A woman in love can’t be reasonable – or she probably wouldn’t be in love…”
– Mae West 

Being home for the last three days, I’ve been consumed by news and updates of Superstorm Sandy.  Don’t forget that there are many, many ways to help!

While trying to get over a bad case of cabin fever, I started to think about relationships.  Now I’m no expert, but I’ve learned a few things along the way.  In fact, I’m still learning!  If you’re finding yourself in a rut, have no fear!  I think I’ve formulated the recipe for the perfect relationship!  (Ladies, this one’s for you…)

And awayyy we go!

• First and foremost, don’t call him.  Don’t have him call you.  Keep your calls/texts to a minimal.  Hey, you know what?  Don’t talk at all.  Just plan a designated time and place for you to meet – maybe once a week or every two weeks.  Mail a letter.  Try to think of a smoke signal system so you can give him as much free time to watch bad television, scratch himself, and do whatever strange behaviors guys like to do.
• Plan every date.  Yes, ladies, remember that I’m talking to you!  Our guys have way too much on their plates to plan anything for us girls.  Why should they spend any time being romantic?  They deserve love, too!  Buy him something he’s always wanted while you’re at it!  It is 2012 – expecting him to plan a date is plain ol’ sexist!
• Always, always, always go to him.  Is that him standing at your doorstep??  With flowers?!?  Is he waiting for you after work??  UGH.  As previously said, your boy is probably so busy that he can’t possibly find time to work around his schedule to meet you anywhere.  Don’t expect any surprises, either.  After all, who likes to be surprised by the person they love?!?  ICK!!!  What you have going on in your life is not as important.  C’mon girl!
•  Watch everything he likes.  Shark Week, 12-inning baseball games, National Geographic, action or horror movies…you name it!  Not only will you avoid pointless arguments (he’ll win anyway) and spend much more time together, but you’ll get an education to boot!  Score!
• Whatever you do, agree with him.  This goes for your feelings, weekend plans, trips in the future, your view on politics, your career, his career, marriage, whether he wants kids or not, whatever.  He’s always right.  Even when he’s wrong…he’s always right.  Got it?  Good.
• Never, EVER argue – even when you’re hurt by the same things over and over again.  Listen.  Don’t express your feelings.  In fact, don’t even have them.  Silly things like making you feel like a priority is not what he signed up for.  And WHY do you want to be a priority, missy??  You know as well I do that certain things come first, dear.  Even if you understand his priorities, don’t expect any special treatment  – even in the most miniscule way!  Keep that nagging mouth shut, smile and nod.  Your new mantra:  “All is good in the mofo’n hood!”
• Don’t expect commitment.  Now, if you’ve done everything right, you’re probably on the serious road to commitment, living happily ever after!  If not, don’t expect your guy to commit to you in any way.  He’ll be fully justified in stringing you along – he didn’t ask you to do any of the above in the first place!  DUH! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again:  C’MON, GIRL!
• Last but not least,  DO NOT FOLLOW any of the above.  The best kind of  relationship is fair, balanced and FULL of mutual love and affection.  Of course you’ll have some arguments along the way, but the right guy will make you feel like a million bucks regardless of your flaws (hopefully, you’ve accepted his as well!  Okay, worked with them… =)  And if that’s too “fairytale” for him, remember that you deserve to be loved…completely.

xoxo andrea

Note To Self…

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“I hate cynicism — it’s my least favorite quality and it doesn’t lead anywhere. Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard and you’re kind, amazing things will happen…”  – Conan O’Brien

"Today I Don’t Feel Like Doing Anything…"

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“…I just wanna lay in my bed…Don’t feel like picking up my phone, so leave a message at the tone…

‘Cause today I swear I’m not doing anything…Nothing at all…” 

I think the above song by Bruno Mars (aptly titled “The Lazy Song”) became so popular because it’s exactly what we feel like doing sometimes:  Absolutely nothing!  Just stay in our PJ’s all day, watch bad television, order take-out, peruse the Internet for hours, then fall asleep in a blissful, lazy haze.

Now, we do need those days from time to time – especially in our busy lives.  However, when those days become habitual, you can feel like you’re stuck in a monotonous, never-ending rut.  Here’s a few ways that I try to snap myself out of it:

Reverse the order of AM rituals:  Everyone has their own routine in the morning.  I usually brush my teeth, eat breakfast, and then start getting ready for the day.  Now, I find that I’m much more motivated by taking a shower and getting ready first, followed by breakfast.  Mixing up your routine just adds some variety to an otherwise mundane schedule. Bonus Tip:  Try to wake up as early as possible – you’ll get so much more from the day!   This is a real challenge for me when I’m off from work, but I do find that gradually pushing my alarm clock’s time back by an hour helps in rising a bit earlier than usual without feeling like I’ve been jolted out of bed.

Turn OFF the computer and/or television:  A bit ironic, I know, but the age of the Internet has imprisoned us – and we do it to ourselves.  Nowadays, we don’t have to leave our homes for groceries, entertainment, or even sending mail. Powering down your computer will help you realize that there is life beyond cyberspace.  It may help to time yourself and/or keeping your laptop/computer out of your bedroom.  Ditto for television. Bonus Tip:  Notice – “power down” NOT “log off.”  Turning your computer completely off will avoid  getting back on again.  Television a problem?  Put the remote somewhere other than next to the bed or couch after turning off to prevent any temptation.

Get up and get out:  Taking a brisk walk can definitely help in clearing your mind (and is great exercise to boot…)  If you don’t feel like walking, bring along a book, some music or your favorite hobby. Being surrounded by nature and people can do wonders. Bonus Tip:  Invite someone.  Wear comfortable clothing and sneakers.  Bring a blanket and lie under a tree.

Enroll in a class:  Aerobics, yoga, art, dance, cooking…you name it, there’s a class for it.  Signing up for one that meets weekly is a good start.Bonus Tip:  Joining with a loved one (friend, family member, significant other) can help in keeping you motivated.

Clean:  This may seem counter-intuitive because the point here is to get out, however, I truly believe that an organized space = organized mind.  Trust me when I say that when my surroundings are messy, my life is usually out of wack.  Make afternoon/evening plans to prevent any dawdling.  Bonus Tip:  Try putting on happy tunes instead of the television to avoid distractions.

Contact someone:  Forget e-mail, text, or instant messaging – call someone that you trust to hash it out (meet in person if you can…) Chances are that you have more on your mind that you originally thought.  Bonus Tip: Please note that I’m no psychologist or medical professional of any kind.  If you are stuck in a rut for more than a day or two, it might be more than just exhaustion or a small case of the blues.  Serious emotional issues can be helped.  Talk to a professional if you truly feel like you’re losing control of your emotions and it’s negatively impacting your life.

 

What I DON’T do:  Shop, head to a local restaurant/bar (just temporary fixes), read self-help books or magazine articles (you’ll constantly be in your head, long after you’re done reading),   update a facebook/twitter status (you will dwell on it all day – especially if people comment!), watch movies (staying inside for hours on end is a definite no-no)…basically anything that will keep me down ‘n out!

Whatever the reason, getting unstuck can be a pretty difficult task.  In my experience, keeping yourself busy on a regular basis can help prevent getting into a consistent rut.  On the flip side, remember to take time out when life seems a bit overwhelming…just be sure to find the right solution for your own happiness.

xoxo andrea

Bring It On, Sleep!

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Your mind is racing, you’re tossing and turning – you know you’re in for another sleepless night.  Insomnia has reared its ugly head and you don’t know what you can do to finally get some well-deserved zzz’s.

I’ll be the first to admit that I am a true insomniac – some of my posts are done way past 2AM! But there are a few things that I can certainly avoid in order to get a good night’s rest…especially some of these senseless rituals that I tend to perform right before I’m supposed to be sound asleep:

1.  Above, drinking any sort of caffeinated beverage.  Coffee, soda, Red Bull, 5-Hour Energy – you get the point.  I mean, duh.  (Drinking lots of water right before bed isn’t too smart, either.)

2.  Watching any part of a series on television.  For some reason, the best of the worst is on television after midnight – in bulk.  You name it, if I start watching one episode and there’s 10 more, I feel like I must stay tuned to see what happens next.  (Enter all guilty pleasure shows here…)

3.  Doing my nails – nail art if I feel extra energetic.  Looks great(!) until I finally do decide to sleep – and the position of choice is as though I’m in some sort of casket.  This is so I avoid smudged nails in the morning (which happens anyway….)

4.  Playing any video/online/app game.  Bejeweled, Words With Friends, Draw Something, Mario Kart, Scrabble…not a good idea when you’re trying to sleep.  Especially if your opponent gets a notification at 4AM.  Whoops.

5.  Listening to any sort of music you can sing along to.  Wilson Phillips, Beyonce, Journey…I need to take these off of my “I NEED TO SLEEP” playlist.

6.  Turning the A/C to an almost freezing temperature.  Unless you’re armed with a down comforter, hat, gloves or scarf, you will be forced to turn this off in the middle of the night.  If you are in the 21st century and have a remote, congratulations!  For the rest of us, hellooo stubbed toe.

7.  Logging onto Facebook.  ‘Nuff said.

 

8.  Piggybacking on #7, surfing the Internet, period.  I can’t begin to tell you how many hours I’ve wracked up researching random topics such as hairstyles, current events, shoes, celebrities, etc.  (You’ve probably noticed that I use the term “researching” quite loosely here…)

9.  Laundry.  I always forget to factor in drying time.  Double duh.

10.  Blogging.  =)

Here’s to a good night’s sleep!

xoxo andrea

The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Over a Grudge

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Oh, I know it’s not easy.  Someone has made you really angry by saying/doing something offensive, and/or worse, violated your trust.  Depending on how severe the circumstances, a grudge can last for days, months, years, and in some cases, you feel like you can never forgive the other person or people involved.

In my experience, getting over a grudge can be a painful process, especially when you care about the relationship, but feel like you shouldn’t bury the hatchet.  I mean, why?  He cheated, she is the “friend” that never calls, they are the ones that didn’t care to invite you.  You may not realize it during the angry stage, but the energy that you are wasting worrying or avoiding these people in your life can be plain ol’ draining – both physically and mentally.  Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts of getting over a grudge that I’ve learned (and I’m still learning!) the hard way:

• DO know that it’s okay to distance yourself from the person/people involved:  I am known to want closure in every disagreement, but I’ve realized that sometimes it’s best to avoid contact for a day or two – longer for serious conflicts.  Depending on the situation, you may want to briefly tell all involved that you are upset and the reason why.  Let them know that you’ll contact them when you’re ready to talk. If they’re not ready when you are, work on accepting that and move on – real relationships heal.

• DON’T vent to mutual people in your life: You may think that since a mutual person knows the both of you (and probably the situation), they can help.  In some cases, this is very far from the truth!  Telling someone that you both know can put them in an awkward situation, and you risk a re-hashing of a misinterpreted version of your side.  Try talking to a trusted someone that can truly listen objectively.

•  DO get some clarity:  Ask yourself about the real reason behind your frustrations.  Is it the situation at hand or is it a build-up of other issues that you let slide in the past?  Either way, you need to clarify that reason for both yourself and the person involved.  I happen to find clarity when journaling, walking, cooking/baking or listening to music.  If you haven’t already, try to find a hobby that helps you relax.

• DON’T put anything on social media:  When you’re angry, avoid social media outlets at all costs.  Do not take this as an opportunity to send a hurtful e-mail/text, or post a passive message on Facebook, Twitter, etc.  Remember: the Internet is a public forum that tends to make messy situations even messier. Not only are you are inviting the world (and their opinions) to invest in your problems, but it will come back to haunt you when it’s resolved sooner or later.

• DO have a one-on-one talk – when you’re ready: Relationships that matter deserve a sit-down, face-to-face conversation.  Talking about how you feel via e-mail, instant message or text leaves the door open for delayed/unreceived messages, inconvenient contact times, etc., which can lead to misinterpretation and additional frustration.  When you are both ready, schedule some real time on a day when you have no prior commitments, in a public area where you can speak honestly – in a mature, rational manner.

• DON’T be quick to point the finger:  Conflict usually occurs when one person doesn’t understand the other person’s behavior.  Be open to the possibility that you may also be at fault here.  Find out how you could have approached the situation differently and prepare to apologize.

• DO listen – I repeat:  LISTEN.  It’s pretty easy to dismiss what the other person is saying when you feel like you’ve been slighted in some way or if it’s problem that seems to be on repeat.  Avoid sarcasm, derisive laughter, cursing, eye rolls, etc. – it doesn’t help the situation.  Really listen as if you were the one trying to explain your side of things.

• DON’T interrupt:  Before you get into the conversation, make a pact that you will both speak without interruption (this means taking off and putting away your cell phone…)  It’s only fair to hear each other out.

• DO know when it’s time to throw in the towel:  Some situations are fixable, some are not.  Realize that people are different, and issues that are important to you may not be as important to someone else.  Also, forgiveness and/or seeing one’s point of view can be a lifelong journey and you may never see eye-to-eye.  Understand when this is the case and try to let go in your own way.

When conflict arises, you may be a person who is constantly in your own head (like I am) or find it very easy to either hold onto or get over a grudge.  Whatever the case may be, one important realization in this process is knowing when to move on.  It isn’t a simple task, but dwelling in negative situations only reaps negative energy.  To me, it’s very necessary to release your demons, surround yourself with positivity and spend your energy with people that add value to your life…

xoxo andrea

They Say It’s My Birthday…

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“… failure is not disgrace. It’s just a pitch that you missed, and you’d better get ready for the next one… The next one might be the shot heard round the world.”   
– Craig Ferguson

Today I’m 33.  I’m usually really excited on my birthday, but for some reason, this year, I’m pretty apathetic.  On a way more positive note, last year was full of ups and downs, but I learned a heck of a lot about myself – probably more than I’ve ever learned in any given year.  Believe it or not, I’m super thankful for it.  Below are my….

32 Lessons I’ve Learned At 32:

32.  Always, always, always…get your oil changed at 3000 miles.  Oh, and rotate your tires.

31.  Make time for people you care about.

30.  People you care about should make time for you, too.

29.  A positive attitude goes a long, long way.

28.  Life will throw you a surprise party once in a while.  Your reaction is the true measure of your character.

27.  There’s always room for fun.

26.  Laughter is necessary for survival.

25.  Be grateful – it can always be worse.  (Way worse…)

24.  When people show you who they are the first time – believe ’em.

23.  Trust is definitely earned.

22.  Fool me once, shame on you.  Fool me twice, shame on you again!  Fool me three times, okay, I’m just an idiot. 

21.  True forgiveness is difficult, but needed in order to finally let go.

2o.  Be yourself. 

19.  Humbleness is a rare and admirable quality.

18.   Apologize and mean it.

17.   Wear comfortable shoes.

16.  Drink water.  Lots of it. 

15.  Look at old family photos (with your family)

14.  Take time to (really) breathe.

13.  Watch television with your parents.

12.  Driving isn’t that bad.

11.  Let your hair down.

10.  Stop feeling guilty about the poor choices you’ve made in the past.

9.  Correct those mistakes and move on.

8.  You are the source of your own happiness.

7.  Sleep.

6.  There are relationships in your life that will change.  Accept it.  Make an effort to keep the ones that matter.

5.  I’m extremely lucky to have my parents.  They also gave me the gift of a really great brother.  

4.  True love exists.

3.  Say “I love you” to the people you, well, love.

2.  At some time in your life, you will question the faith you once had in people.  It will crush your spirit (if you let it…) 

1.  If I manage to be half the person my mother is when I am her age, I’d be one pretty spectacular woman.

34, here I come…

xoxo andrea

Please and Thank You…

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So, I’m in Starbucks a LOT. It’s a really great way for me (and the bf) to get work done without the distractions of being home.

The one thing I’ve realized during my time here is the fact that some patrons (in Starbucks and other public venues) lack basic etiquette. Since I’m not the classiest person in the world, I usually give people the benefit of the doubt when it comes to this. But, I do believe that simple consideration for your fellow human race is a foundational trait.

With that being said, here are a few simple things to keep in mind when in a public place:

Use headphones. What’s up with people watching movies and listening to music like they’re at home?? Today we were sitting next to two women that turned on their computer with the volume so loud that felt like we were watching it in a public amphitheater. On the train, we sat across from a teenager who played his iPod as if it were a modern boombox…and singing along as if he were on American Idol: F Train Edition. Why is this okay??

Inside voice, please. Whether you’re inside a tiny coffee shop or your local strip mall, if you need to talk on the phone, please take it outside. I’ve heard many conversations (not by choice) about dinner options, medical conditions, dating adventures, etc. I really don’t need to know that you’re deciding between chicken and meatloaf, or the fact that you think you got an STD because of your burning reproductive parts. Seriously.

Stand in line. Why do some people insist that blocking the door or crowding around the cashier will help expedite their purchases quicker? Or worse, skipping ahead as if the cashier was a bouncer they knew at a local club? This just results in: 1. Cashiers gravitating to the tall guy (so not me) 2. People shouting their orders like they were on the floor of the Stock Exchange. 3. Getting punched, slapped or shoulder shoved – 80’s movie style. Please don’t do it, and wait your turn.

Be polite. Use your eyes. Look around. Chances are, other people are around you! So, be nice. Speak politely. If you can’t speak, use a bodily function to get someone’s attention without being rude (a slight burp, a quiet fart, slightly urinate on yourself, etc.) Kidding about the last one (especially since releasing gas can be very offensive), but you know what I mean. Instead of shoving past someone by using your huge bookbag (or butt) say “excuse me” (again, nicely – saying it with a loud attitude eliminates the “nice” factor…) If you’re on the customer service end, take care of your customers. I know it’s not the best job in the world, and we can be very difficult, but a little courtesy can easily turn a good day into a nightmare.

Flush. No one needs to know what you had for dinner last night.

Say please and thank you. Please? Thank you!

=)

xoxo andrea

Redemption

source: a. singh, 2010

“Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors,
and let each new year find you a better man…” – Benjamin Franklin

          As most people do at the cusp of the pending year, I tend to think about the last twelve months – how much I’ve changed, how much I’ve lost and how much I’ve gained. This year, I remember how much I’ve given in love, received in love and all that I’ve gotten in return.

          I’ll just be honest, my 2011 seemed to be filled with complete loss. I’ve lost grip with the familiar – lifelong friends, loved ones, my job – and there were times when the world looked like it was determined to press itself against me. I wondered why people did the things they did and I felt as though there was no one I could trust. When I vented my frustrations, I realize that I went into victim mode, and in turn, this transformed into guilt.

          I thought I’d always look at this year as one that I’d like to put behind me. But now, with two days left in 2011, I realize that while I’ve lost my faith in some people and circumstances, I’ve simultaneously learned so much about myself in return. I’ve learned how resilient I really am and how well I can bounce back when life gets tough. I’ve also learned to stand up for myself and say no (and really meaning it this time…) I’ve come to really appreciate the support system I have in my life. Most importantly, I’ve learned what true love is. Whether it be from family or a significant other, unconditional love is something that you can’t value until you’ve hit that proverbial brick wall – when it seems like you can’t go anymore in any direction. When you are difficult, irrational, and so angry at the world, yet finding that someone is still there to dry your tears or simply pick up the phone when you call. And for this unconditional love, I am grateful.

          With that being said, thank you 2011, for teaching me that while things can be worse, I’m still learning how to deal with unexpected circumstances. Although I will continue to question people and fall back into familiar patterns, I still have the ability to appreciate the good along with the bad, while building trust in myself and others. Lastly, I’m lucky enough to have people in my life that remind me of this and so much more, especially when I tend to forget…

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas…

Merry, Merry Christmas! It’s about 5:45am and although I wrapped my presents early, I’m wide awake – kind of like I was almost 25 years ago when I was a wee girl of 7!

If you’re a fan of the holidays like I am, I’m hoping to take advantage of each every minute of it! Here are a few ways to enjoy what’s left of this year’s Christmas season:

Have at least one elaborate, sit-down meal. Take time to set the table and arrange your food family style. Orange juice in a wine glass? Tea in a cup with a saucer? Why the heck not?!? The holidays are the perfect excuse to have your meals in style! Enjoy conversation and laughter while you dine. Starting or spending the day solo? Accompany your sit-down meal with a book, newspaper or music. Avoid watching television so you can really take advantage of every second.

Wear comfortable clothes. For me, comfortable equals happy…and it’s possible to be fashionable and comfortable simultaneously. Make sure that you wear clothing that doesn’t constrict, reveal or requires too much adjusting – especially if you’re headed to a gathering. When I find myself in any of these situations, I’m so worried about my outfit that I forget about what’s going on around me! Ditto for hair, make-up and shoes – keep ’em simple if you can…

Don’t take a ba-zillion photos. Sounds like an oxymoron, right? Taking photos are the only way to preserve memories! Wrong. I’m not saying to forgo photos altogether, but try to focus on a few that would capture key moments. I find that when I’m in charge of the camera, I’m so busy zooming in, finding the right light, focus, etc. that I miss what’s really important – the reality of the moment. Rotating camera duties can be helpful, or try passing it on to a family member that doesn’t mind missing out on the good stuff!

Play music all day long. My family and I listen to music all day on Christmas – starting at breakfast and ending right before bedtime. Keeping the music light and energetic gives your holiday a personal soundtrack. Set the volume to a normal level so you can still converse, eat, nap, etc. without feeling disturbed.

Laugh. Some people tend to forget this very important step! At a social gathering, team up with someone you know or zero in on the happy crowd. If you’re alone this season, call up a friend or relative or watch a funny movie – do something that’ll make you feel great!

Take a warm bath before bed. My mom swears that a long, warm bath before bed is the best feeling in the world. And nothing feels better after a hectic holiday shopping season. When the gifts are unwrapped, trash is thrown out, dishes are put away and everyone’s in bed, enjoy the solo time – you’ve made it through another crazy year!

Have a wonderful Christmas!!! =)

xoxo andrea