THE FUTURE STARTS NOW
Redefining the face of Corporate
ABOUT FORTY
Forty Magazine is a digital resource for young professionals. We help professionals under 40 grow professionally and personally by covering life their 40 hours a week and more. Our mission is to help professionals from campus to corner office.
FEATURE VISUALS Desmond Hunt Dlores Media Group
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
KIAN HERVEY Editor & Publisher
Brittany Bullock Catherine L Wheeler Hannah Sampson Justin August Kayla McDowell Lauren Bass Naomi Ewansiha Priscille Joseph Sakinah Sanders Susie Wentworth All images sourced from stock photography libraries Unsplash, Pixabay, PicJumbo, Negative Space, Noun Project and Flickr. Forty Magazine does not won any images used in this publication. Attribution is noted when required.
34
22
10
THIS ISSUE Advice for A Career Transition Why You Need a Retreat Building A Career in Dallas A Push Into Interior Design Falling in Love at Work Home Bar Essentials
35 29 10 14 16 40
16
EVERY ISSUE Dress for Success Career Spotlight ut of ffice urope orporate e ness ouc Break Bites
THE COVER
a
06 20 26 32 39
Desmond Hunt of Dlores Media Group
FOLLOW US @ 40MAGAZINE
look your
BE ST
It’s not just about making a statement when you’re at the office or out for play. Justin August shares how a well-curated wardrobe can help you feel your best.
Coming from humble beginnings, I realized the hidden power in presentation at a very early age. As a boy, I remember my mom ironing my grey sweat set and passing a warm towel over my gently worn tennis shoes. She would always say, “No one has to know your struggle when you look your best.” Needless to say, her simple words have always resonated with me. Looking your best at work and play is more than a desire to belong or fit in. I personally use it to educate others on how I would like to be approached. Is it necessary? Of course not, but we all feel better when we look better. From tapered slacks to double-breasted blazers, looking your best at work and play shows that you are purposeful with respect to your lifestyle and profession. My schedule is pretty dense during the week, so I choose items that are versatile, practical and definitely cost-efficient. Here are a few tips that I follow to make sure this area of my life is very simple yet effective:
Justin is a Louisiana native who currently works in Dallas, TX. You can follow him on Instagram @justinbobby84 and get a fresh perspective on sex, love, and millennial life through his co-hosted podcast Millennial Lov3.
Buy Versatile Items Consider items that are adaptable to any situation. Items that you can throw a blazer over or switch to your favorite pair of casual shoes are ideal. Look for something that you can immediately feel different in. A key piece to keep in your closet that can afford you a ton of e ibility is my personal favorite, a classic pair of slim-fit blue eans. ou can literally create a million looks with it. From blazers and loafers to erseys and sneakers, a good pair of denim eans will get you far in life. emember that
Embrace The Power of Black earing black adds a level of sophistication to your look. It is regal. It is simultaneously powerful and elegant. It literally speaks for itself. I didn t fully understand the power of wearing black until I got a couple of years dressing my best under my belt. his color works for any event and is really easy to shop for. My favorite all-black look is a pair of stone washed black denim eans, a classic black turtle neck and a pair of black loafers. hether you are happy go lucky or feeling your inner Miranda riestly, wearing all black will surely protect and intensify your look.
Don’t be afraid to lead with confidence. Layer your clothes over confidence and you WILL create
MAGIC
Shop for Two uying two of your favorite items is like having hristmas year-round. If you are like me, you like what you like. Moreover, if you don t have what you like then the world can feel gloomy and blue. If my favorite item is a limited find and happens to be economical, make an effort to buy two of it. I find these items to fall in the category of perfect fit, seasonal colored items. Any item that you can wear over and over and over again deserves to be bought in twos.
Trust, You’re Beautiful nfortunately, the one thing we cannot buy is confidence. e must put in the work to know ourselves, love ourselves and know that the very thing that makes us ust a tad bit different, is the one thing that makes us uni ue and beautiful. our original sense of style for work and play is needed in this world.
Shop the look at FortyMagazine. com
THE METROPLEX BOOMING FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
Writer Dev Gillespie interviews musical artist and Flint, Michigan native on onnor about what s really going on in his community.
DALLAS TEXAS
When you th n o ss ss all o hat you assu e s true. It s slo and country th very l le or youn professionals to do. In my hometown of McComb, Mississippi, there was only a Walmart and a Footlocker in town. You ere sure to see everyone you ne stroll n around n the all every ee end. ro n u y only esca e ould e telev s on. I ould al ays atch sney ov es to see ho teena ers unc oned n a c ty. When y arents shared the reat ne s that e ere ov n to las a the only th n I anted to no as t as a c ty. nce e arr ved I sa our ne ho e as ndeed a c ty. It as s all ust l e c o ut had so e ustle. er h h school I anted to l ve n an even er c ty. n y st rthday a er a tr to allas to v s t a r end I dec ded to a e a u . I decided to move to Dallas, Texas. e n to e as re u red so e or . er do n so e research I a l ed to so e colle es and rece ved acce tance to e as Wo an s n vers ty. Wh le I asn t so thr lled a out leav n las a I hun ered or ore. I as dee ly nervous a out leav n ho e ut allas as call n e to e ar u on a ne ourney. I elt co orta le. I as set. er radua n colle e I as a le to d ve nto y ne ro ess onal l e. allas u c ly eca e a l ar to e. lthou h y r end first ntroduced e to the a a n th n s to do n allas I ound so any other th n s ha en n on y o n. I sa aves o youn ro ess onals ov n to the c ty to u start the r careers. hat as the ost asc na n art to e. u c ly I deter ned I asn t the only erson loo n to thr ve n allas. n the ns de they ere ust as e c ted a out e n n allas as I as. ere are so e reasons hy allas s hot or youn ro ess onals
WHY
DALLAS AS Saving Money & Building Business Hiring & Collaborating
he economy in allas is moving at a fiery rate. A lot of company head uarters are moving to allas, increasing the local economy. hese senior companies want young professionals to oin their team to contribute new and fresh ideas that will help keep their business a oat. he companies that are moving here are also adapting their business to understand and support the allas community and culture. his fusion of company and community allows young professions to transfer their lifestyles here. hey can bring their families and back-home traditions to allas in a collaborative way.
allas offers an affordable lifestyle you ll grow to love. ven on an entry-level salary, you can afford a downtown apartment with upgraded appliances and hardwood ooring. In a number of popular neighborhoods, you ll find a ton of added conveniences for a fair price. If you like fresh coffee in the morning, you can walk to a local coffee shop or on the weekend en oy brunch with friends. If you have a furry friend, there s going to be a dog park nearby too. ut that s not all. allas affordable lifestyle and local conveniences also allows young professionals freedom and e ibility to pay attention to their future. Lower ta es i.e., no income ta gives young professionals the ability to save money when possible. More young professionals in allas are becoming entrepreneurs in their “off� time and they spend their evenings attending networking happy hours and events.
WHAT DALLASITE KAYLA McDOWELL LO S A O H I Entertaining Celebrities & More elebrity sightings actually happen in allas. nlike in LA or New ork, celebrities in allas embrace fan moments while they re out brunching or doing normal things like shopping at Northpark mall. ut allas isn t ust for the famous there are many diverse socialites and entertainment scenes for young professionals to get to know. A regular scene in allas is beer,wine, and food festivals or live shows like podcast recordings, radio broadcasts, and comedian improvs. atching a concert, en oying brunch, or dropping into a hot yoga session is one of the countless ways you can have fun in the city. hatever you re into, there is an option for you to live your best life and snap an Instagram-worthy moment. In fact, the allas skyline is the most, snapped and shared scene in the city. ou might even catch a celebrity appreciating the local charm of the city while you are too.
Staying Young o complete the list of reasons why allas is hot for a young professional, there is a full lifestyle opportunity here. According to the orld opulation eview, the median age in allas is years. he youthful energy grants allas a reputation as one of the largest growing metrople cities in the nited States. oung adults can e pand their careers, seek a reasonable balance of work and family, and with the many events around allas, have fun doing both. or e as a youn ro ess onal I have ound that alance. er l v n n allas or seven years I have ound ysel ca a le o learn n the a a n connec ons the c ty has to o er. I a a youn ro ess onal and an entre reneur. lso I a a r ter a ou u er and a creator. he o ortun es I ve ound n allas have hel ed e ursue y oals. I ay have ro n u n ss ss and las a ut allas s y ho e.
Kayla is an Account and Outreach Lead for Wolfe Nation studios. You can connect her on Instagram @1kaylamac, or visit her beauty blog sokayla.com
A PUSH INTO
INTERIOR DESIGN
It was a cold, busy February afternoon when an elderly client walked into my co-worker’s office at our bank. As he sat down and greeted his financial representative, the well-respected man began to vent. I couldn’t help but overhear his life story, which ultimately changed the course of my career. With absolutely no artistic background, I went from working at the bank to working for the federal government of Canada as an interior designer. I still remember the days I sat in my office at the bank, wondering what was next for my career. At the time I was working as a customer representative during the day and studying pure & applied sciences in the evening. As I started to get comfortable with my position in the bank, I left my studies and was determined to pursue a lifelong career in finance. That man’s words on that cold February afternoon
One Man’s Regrets and a Job Change Pushed Priscille Joseph into her Dream Career. changed my plans and pushed me into a new field. At 92 years old, with no family, wife, or children, the man shared how he looked back on his life with regrets. His parents taught him to “save, save, save.” They told him “If you work hard and save, you’ll retire a millionaire.” He did just that. The man retired a millionaire, but his money brought him little joy. He couldn’t travel because of his age; he had no family to call his own, so his lifelong earnings would eventually go to charity and the government. He admitted, “I did not live life to the fullest.” His regrets, not enjoying the day-today, plagued his daily thoughts in his old age. The words of the elderly
man sank in my heart and mind that day. His story played over and over in my mind. I couldn’t get rid of his long list of regrets and lack of satisfaction with achieving a status of wealth. A week later, my boss informed me that my position would no longer exist due to an unforeseen company restructure. With no clear career path, I was forced to reconsider my career in the financial industry. Since my father had experience in interior renovation, interior design peaked my interest from the list of trades. I was fascinated with how a space can be transformed, but there were many aspect of the creative field that I felt unsure about. The seeming lack of consistent income worried me. I didn’t know how many jobs
Connect with Priscille at @lapriscilledesign on Instagram or Twitter. Follow her journey at lapriscilledesign.com.
were available for designers, which produced a sense of uncertainty and stress as I started diving into the design world. With only a few weeks before college application deadline, I created a portfolio, wrote a letter of intent and took a huge leap of faith and applied for a threeyear technical diploma at Dawson College in Montreal, Canada. I started the program struggling to draw a chair in perspective, but determination allowed me to develop skills I never thought I had. The design school journey wasn’t easy, in fact, it was very challenging but with dedication, practice, and support from my husband, family, and friends, I made it. Four years later, I had the opportunity to complete my bachelor’s in interior design in the nation’s capital. With a degree and increasing skills under my belt, I started transforming interiors to enhance visitor’s overall health and wellbeing across the nation. From livable spaces to public interiors, I started creating environments that rejuvenate, refresh, and revive guests. Studying interior design helped me go beyond aesthetics to deliver an interior that is functional, comfortable, promotes healing and wellness. It gave me the ability to meet new people and build a community around design and creativity. Most of all, interior design gave me an outlook on life that I wouldn’t regret when I’m 92. If you are considering entering the interior design field, keep pushing. When studies become a challenge, remember why you started and where you want to be in a few years. Don’t give up. It’s worth it in the end.
Joseph’s latest projects integrated floral and fauna into the design of two separate bathroom spaces for a private home.
Falling in Love at Work
Susie Wentworth shares the pros, cons, do’s and don’ts o find n a soul ate n an une ected lace.
It’s honestly laughable that I’m writing an article about dating. I was terrible at dating and honestly n t e t er muc . o er ana e e er t n an am not a con ent ec s on ma er t ou m or n on t. at e n sa meet ate an marr t e most ama n man o met at or ran on an met e or n at an a r ne. t t e t me e or e n erent epartments t at s are space on t e same oor of one of t e u n s. ran on ran a e etc. as fr en s t one of m co or ers an ou s n our or space to sa an as o s e an er fam ere o n . entua e starte ropp n to see me nstea of er. starte to catc on t at e as ntereste n me ut n t or na rec procate s fee n s. ne t at e as a stan up man of c aracter an e en su este t at e ate m o er s ster ut as prett es tant at t e ea of at n a co or er n of a t at cou o ron entua an t an fu ec e to e ta c ance. e earne a ot of o s an on ts a on t e a an stan n on t e ot er s e of at n a co or er t a or e out.
Natural Fit ften t mes emp o ers re e m n e peop e. ur ompan for e amp e res peop e o are fun pos t e out o n an care a ot a out serving others. Peer Reviews t our o t ere are a ot of peop e to ouc for our potent a partner s c aracter. oes t e person or ar or s ac o s e or s e eas to et a on t o peop e a o o n to t em for e p our potent a partner s co or ers can often s are f e or s e as a oo att tu e or s most pos t e or ne at e. Separating Work & Play t s fficu t to separate our or an persona fe. f ou re frustrate or ma at t e person ou re at n t s not as eas to e a e to put our frustrat on as e for ours ecause ou cou er eas see t e person ur n t e a .
Pros & Cons Limiting Interactions n t e ot er s e t s a so fficu t to not s o a ect on. s ran on sa e ar est part as eep n our emot ons n c ec en so t at not everyone knew what was going on.� Conflict of Interest n coup e s ou o e s ar n t n s t eac ot er. ran m t te ou t at ta s ear o . o e er t ere as one nstance ur n our at n re at ons p n c e as rece n a promot on an as t e one t at as process n t e t e c an e an pa ncrease for m. cou n t sa an t n muc ess ce e rate m so t as fficu t.
a nta n profess ona sm at a t mes. et oun ar es an respect t em. cannot stress o mportant t s s. our o s our e oo . e o ou re n opefu ea to a career pro ress on t n our compan or e a stepp n stone to somet n at anot er compan . t er a our ea er a e somet n to sa a out ou as an mp o ee.
on t eopar e a o unprofess ona .
en
ett n oun ar es e p t t s. a e ou ot a ree to eep our re at ons p a secret. no a coup e no marr e t at ate for a year without anyone a work knowing. Or maybe you two decied to limit the time you interact with each other at work. Either way you need to come to a ec s on to et er a out protect n our o s.
Do’s & Dont’s
t t e e nn n of our re at ons p ran on would swing by my desk and sit there to chat t me. entua a fe of t e ea ers n m epartment stoppe m es an as e a out t e u t at eeps com n aroun . e ere approac n t e su ect from a protect e po nt of e ut certa n n t ant t em to start questioning my work ethic. I had to ask ran on to an out a tt e ess fre uent . ust remem er t e re at ons p ou re n ma or out ut ma a so sso e. t er a ou nee a job.
Be clear with your intentions and e pectat ons. s s somet n t at poor ut m husband did really well. Brandon was very clear t at e ante to ate me an e entua t at e ante to marr me. ot of at n re at ons ps these days are lacking clarity and direction. eop e use at n for ar ous erent reasons to n a spouse to meet more peop e or to n out at c aracter tra ts t e re oo n for n a spouse. t s mportant to commun cate at our purpose s n at n n or er to e fa r to t e ot er person.
o eac ot er n t an respect eac ot er no matter at appens. The reality about dating is that it only leads to marr a e once. er pre ous at n e per ence t at ou a e pr or to n n our spouse as en e . e ar ess of at appens t s cruc a for co or ers to remem er t at t e are indeed co-workers. They should treat each other t n t an respect. on t sprea rumors. on t spea poor a out t e person to ot er co-workers. Take the high road. Be kind to the person an remem er to treat t em o ou like to be treated. st fee a tt e t scan a ous en te peop e t at met m us an at or o e er ou n t a e t an ot er a . on t e scare f ou foun someone at or t at ou re ntereste n at n . e smart e caut ous an e sure to onor ourse f an t e person ou re dating.
us e Went orth has een arr ed to her hus and randon or close to t o years. he s a aylor raduate ho en oys runn n coo n try n to asse le urn ture and ollo n hr st. ou can ollo her ourney as a ne e on Insta ra theWent orth a ly.
THE
A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT
FUTURE STARTS NOW
Human capital professional rittany ullock uses past and present data trends as a compass for redirecting the future of corporate.
Whether you work in Finance, Technology, or Sales, you need a community of support to build your career. Cameron Smith, Nayra alaviz, and ante Flick share how family, mentorship, and networking helped shape their career.
& QA With
BRITTANY BULLOCK
As a consultant, Bullock advises company Leaders on their human capital. She sees where companies are today and helps them prepare for the future. In an interview with Editor & Publisher Kian Hervey, Bullock explains what you can expect to see in corporate if young professionals embrace the future. How did you land your first job?
IT’S NOT THAT MILLENNIALS ARE NOT WILLING TO WORK. WE JUST WORK IN DIFFERENT WAYS.
n was wor n n the office of career ser ces for the chool of ubl c and n ron ental a rs at nd ana n ers ty . had been wor n there since my freshman year and became the Assistant Director of Student Internships. Altria, one of the world's largest producers and marketers of tobacco c arettes and related products recru ts hea y fro because of our bus ness and ar et n pro ra s. ne of the ad sors n the office spo e w th so eone fro the ltr a recru t n sta and sa d was a ood t for an available position. They interviewed me on the spot. I made it to the panel nter ew then the offic al recru t ent e ent n h ca o. accepted y o er November 2010 and graduated in May 2011.
What did you like most about the position? I take a natural interest in trends and numbers. I love understanding how our hab ts ha e an pact on th n s we buy. lar e part of y rst ob was studying analytics to create business cases and stories.
What did you like least about the position? I didn’t feel like I was making an impact. It was very repetitive work and eventually I reached a point when I wasn’t being challenged anymore. Plus, the ob relocated e to owl n reen entuc y where there sn t uch to do for a young professional. I started applying to other roles inside the company, but the options were very lateral. I knew I need a change.
What came next for your career? Eventually I left Altria to take a position with an international company based n h ca o. nce we wor ed n all t e ones had to be a a lable at all times. My boss got promoted and we were assigned a new leader from another ar et. t rst was e c ted to see a lac wo an n a h h pos t on but slowly things changed. I felt constantly under attack, as though I didn’t belong and everyone knew it. It got so bad, I started having panic attacks daily. Eventually, my new Leader put me on a performance improvement plan that see ed poss ble to pull o . pushed throu h the three onths and co pleted e eryth n r ht before hr st as. hen ca e bac to work, my new Leader said although they were impressed, I still needed an pro e ent plan for one ore onth. o o alon s ned o and a reed. hen that t e was up they too e o the plan. h le far e ceeded the r ob ect es two wee s later u t. wanted to lea e on y ter s not the rs.
Brittany Bullock’s Q&A The Future Starts Now continues...
WE ARE AT A TIME WHEN UPCOMING LEADERS ARE SHAPING WHAT CORPORATE AMERICA LOOKS LIKE IN THE FUTURE.
What is next for corporate merica? By the year 2020 half
of the workforce will be millennials. By 2025 it will be 75 percent. o pan es that understand how to attract reta n and de elop young professionals are the ones that are in line with the future. eet w th o er s and bus ness owners a year and t s top of nd for the . e are ett n better at ne ot at n salar es and understand n our otal o pensat on tate ents what a co pany pays you n salary bene ts and other per s. th une ploy ent be n at . percent and e pected to stay around that for the next few years, it’s going to get tougher for bus nesses to h re. o pan es are ha n to poach talent fro the r co pet t on. e are at a t e when upco n leaders are shaping what corporate America looks like in the future.
ABOUT BRITTANY BULLOCK Hometown: Terre Haute, IN College: Indiana University Bloomington First 40: Sales Manager, Altria On the Clock: Human Capital Management Consultant, ADP Off the Clock: Faux Serial Socialite, TheBrittanyB.com @thebrittanyb_
hotography by lores Media roup. Interview and design by ian Hervey.
What led to your current role? People know ADP as a payroll
co pany but that s only part of our bus ness. e are transfor n the ar et as leaders n u an ap tal ana e ent. wor w th s all to d-s e bus nesses and use data and trend analys s to help them make decisions regarding people. Hearing their legacies and stor es of the co pan es they ha e bu lt s a a n . d d t fro a product ser ce s de for e years before transferr n to hu an cap tal. was nally able to nd a role that allowed e to en oy the best parts of all y past profess onal e per ences.
o you think your current role ali ns with your purpose?
enu nely en oy help n people et to the r oals and drea s. also like being a problem solver. This wraps the two into one by being able to give businesses strategies and real ways to drive pro tab l ty n the r co pany. e n able to loo bac and see a company overcome a challenge that I uncovered makes me feel like I accomplished something.
What s next for you and your career? I eventually want to
move into training and development. I want to take my desire to help people succeed and use it internally. I like developing strategies and plans. I never wanted to be a manager or a leader in a trad t onal way so th s allows e to do t n a d erent way.
July 2019
baddiesandbosses.com
MEET ME IN EUROPE
48 HRS
AMSTERDAM MADRID PARIS
Amsterdam.
Known for its bike pedestrians and long canals, Amsterdam is a city made for strolling around. Our connecting ight landed about midday in the city and allowed ust enough time to grab the train from the airport to visit the city centre. lean, modern, and relatively fast, the train dropped us off in front of houses and waterways built centuries ago. e stopped for lunch at afe Heffer, ate borenkool traditional potatoes , and drank Aperol spritzes, the local summer drink of choice. efore saying goodbye to our layover city, we took a canal cruise that educated us on the rich history and modern culture of the city. y far the most impressionable part of the cruise was learning about house boat ordinances, vehicles lost in canals, and the challenges of living in water-locked city. A er a few hours on the ground, we were back to the airport for our next stop. Author Kian Hervey is an Engagement Specialist at Southwest Airlines. When she’s not taking advantage of her travel enefits and e lor n the world, she calls allas e as ho e. ou can connect with her on LinkedIn or @40Magazine on Instagram.
Madrid.
It might be the siestas or late dinners, but Madrid seems to come alive at night. e had a late checkin to our hostel and faced peak levels of hanger by time we arrived. A er refueling our bodies with empanadas and a some sleep, we hit the pavement for a tour of the city, seeing the presidential palace, par ue el retiro, and San Miguel Market. San Miguel Market is famous for its fine food stalls and fair prices for fresh food. e sipped fresh mo itos, drank robust wines, and e perienced Spanish churros con chocolate. At night, we many American and foreign tourists at two night clubs, one with live music and another with rave air. Our time in Madrid ended with brunch views that couldn t be beat. irculo de ellas Artes is a must see for any visitor.
on t hesitate to book your ne t vacation to Europe. Use some of that hard-earned paid time off, turn on your “out of office� notification, and head over to estern urope for a rich cultural getaway.
Paris.
Love was not in the air during our trip to aris. A well-known gang member had escaped from prison and the city was crawling with police looking for the escapee. espite the local news, we en oyed a safe and pictures ue view of the our iffel from the rous- aillou neighborhood. e dipped our feet in the pool at rocadero gardens and ate savory crepes for dinner. In general, the cuisine itself was not that remarkable, but the baked goods, breads, cakes, and pastries were divine. An ious to get out of the city, we took an hour train ride out to ersaille. ro traveler tip be sure to buy the premium ticket. e were fined by police for purchasing the wrong fare. he ornate gold and marble of ing Louis famed estate still shines bright and mesmerizes travelers from all over the world. ith e pansive gardens, onsite restaurants, and a welcoming village feel think ell from eauty and the east , ersailles can easily take up a full day and is worth every minute.
Who to Fly
Our travel to and around Europe included a variety of airlines. e ew allas to Amsterdam American Airlines , Amsterdam to Madrid Air uropa , Madrid to aris Iberia Ailines , and aris to etroit elta , etroit to allas Southwest Airlines . No matter your budget, there s an airline that will get you there for a low fare.
MEET ME IN
EUROPE
5
Reasons Yo u Need a We l l n e s s Retreat
A er a year of heartbreak and heartache, I woke up one day and decided I wanted more out of life. A few of my friends suggested I go on vacation, but I knew I needed more than a uick trip out of town to completely reset. I wanted to get help for my mind, body, and soul, but didn’t know how or where to start. I saw a promotion on social media and decided I wanted to go on a retreat. I hoped my friends would come with me a er seeing the yer, but they were hesitant to book ights. A er an initial e planation of my idea, their reactions confirmed what I already knew. I had some convincing to do. If you re wondering why your vacations are not leaving you fully recharged, it s probably because you need and want more from your travel. Save the weekends in Las egas and Miami for special occasions and go on a retreat to regroup. If you need to convince yourself or friends that you truly deserve one, here are five reasons you should go on a retreat.
1
You Get Long Term Results Whether you’re making $40,000, $60,000, or tens of thousands more, we are all trying to be financially responsible and will wonder if dropping thousands on a vacation is worth it. How can you validate your return on investment a er a retreat is all said and done? How does spending all that money help you when you get back home and are thrust back into the real world? etreats teach you practical coping mechanisms to get through situations and how to move past everyday drama with coworkers, spouses, loved ones and friends. hrough yoga, meditation, workshops, and other learning forums, you learn how to do things different and be a happier person, long term. A retreat will help you change for the better and like ardi said live your best life for many years to come.
2
You Get Real Peace
he definition of retreat is a uiet or secluded place in which one can rest and rela . he definition of vacation is an e tended period of leisure and recreation. hat s the point of ge ng away if you don t get time to rest and rela ? y definition alone, vacations are more active and busier than a retreat. urn up at home and skip going out of state, out of the country to do that. he older you get, you ll start to appreciate time laying out by the pool, sipping a ina olada, and reading a book more than staying out till midnight in Milan.
3
You Get New Friends Let’s be real. Even though you have and your friends from high school and college, there are always moments when you realize you are in different a place in your life. Sometimes, you ust want something different. Attending a retreat puts you with people who want the same things that you want at the same time. It allows you to be open with people who won t udge you because they think they know you better than anyone else. It gives you the chance to learn something new or see a situation through the eyes of another person. You never know, you may even begin to build a new tribe.
4
You Get Professional Help
5 Find PEACE in a R E T R E AT
emember all the conversations you and your friends had about going to see a therapist or finding a life coach? And all the unsolicited advice from your friends that you are tired of hearing? A retreat is the perfect opportunity to get advice, ask uestions, and learn from the professionals. And what about trying oga for the first time, without all the stares because some people can t take your curves? ell every retreat that I ve seen has yoga included. Now you can learn something new and get contact information to be able to continue the relationship or even get recommendations for a professional closer to you.
You Get to Skip the Planning How many times have you played “not it” when it comes time to plan a group trip? For the person who is tasked with the daunting process of picking a destination, finding a hotel, booking e cursions, and sticking to a group budget, it s a lot to take on. efore you even get to your destination, all or most of your hair is probably pulled out If you got on a retreat, the only thing you have to do is purchase your ight. he entire trip is planned for you. All you have to do is show up.
So what are you waiting for? 2019 is here and it is time to put yourself first. Book your first or next retreat and see your mind, body, and soul heal in an entirely new way. Sakinah is the founder of I’m Just Sakinah, a life coaching and event company based in Atlanta, Georgia. When she is not working on her entrepreneurial endeavors, she is a single mom and works full time in digital media and product management. You can follow her on Instagram @ImJustSakinah.
Naomi Ewansiha, a counseling psychology PhD candidate at Texas Women’s University, shares her practical advice for finding professional help that works for you.
COUCH T A L K How to Find a Therapist
TALK IT OUT Searching for a therapist is like searching for your s n cant ot er. ou ant to n someone t at s compat e to ou. ou a e to s op aroun unt ou n t at one person t at ou can connect t . earc n for a t erap st on ne can e er o er e m n an confus n at rst espec a s nce ou ma not no at to oo for. en as oo n for m t erap st remem er n n t u te fficu t. ons er n t e soc et e e n to a an our soc eta norms t ere s a fa se st ma out t ere t at ou a e to e cra n or er to a e a t erap st. ur n m unt for a t erap st t fe t as f m a of t n n as comp ete erent from e er one e se. t ou t no one ou e a e to un erstan m es re to see out e p an t at ea me to t n t at no one e a e to un erstan me. en ou et o er t at t n n ou ma start to t n n ta n to someone ou a e ne er met efore a out our fe can e er a ar . ut ou a e to trust t s person t our eepest ar est part of ourse f an trust n t em to un erstan ou an not u e ou. a no c ue ere to e en start en as oo n for a t erap st ut as na a e to ure t out. o a e one of t e est t erap sts out t ere an am e ate to s are t ou t e steps t at e pe me.
Ask Around
t surpr se ou o man of our fam mem ers or fr en s are actua n t erap . t sn t somet n to e em arrasse a out e er one nee s a u ement free one an t at s at a t erap st pro es. en ou ure out c of our fam mem ers or fr en s are n t erap as uest ons. s t em at t e e a out t e t erap st. s t em a out t e t erap st s a a a t an access t ecause t at s er mportant s a e nner n t erap ou ma ant to see out someone ou can see as often as ou ant not someone t at as a on a t n st. ee n out a t erap st t m te a a a t ma na ertent cause ou to e up on t erap e s mp atn for an appo ntment. at e n sa ou on t ant to sett e ust ecause ou ant someone t at s a a a e an access e. ou st ant to et t e er est. s our fr en f t e r t erap st no s someone
t e ou recommen to ou. at s o ot m t erap st. f no one n our fam as a t erap st or ou e en encounter fr en s or fam mem er o fro n or au at t e ea o not et t at era ou. s s a persona ourne for ou as ou are a un ue n ua t un ue a t es an nee s.
Search Online
se our scret on to eterm ne at nformat on ou at ere n t e researc p ase s ere s a rea an ama n ata ase for ou en t comes to e p n n our searc of a t erap st. s c o o o a s erap rector s a reat ata ase to n an t erap st n an c t . s on as t e t erap st re sters t t e rector ou e a e to n t em. ue to s c o o o a s erap rector e n a reat resource a ma or t of t erap sts a e a su scr pt on so ou s ou a e no pro em n n t e r t t for ou. en ou searc on ne ma e sure ou pa attent on at t pe of t erap t e spec a e n. o e t erap sts t at ta a out t e r or an o t e can e p ou nstea of a t e r e rees ust fee as f ou s ou et our or spea for tse f.
Find a Picture
no t s soun s cra ut ou can te a ot from t e p cture of t e t erap st. ou can eterm ne f ou an t e t erap st e a reat t oo n at a p cture of t em. f ou are a fun o n person t at s nto o es an t n s of t at sort t en a t erap st t a p cture of t emse es o n somet n s m ar to at ou e ou e more of our spee . n f ou are a er ser ous person t en ma e a t erap st t a er profess ona ea s ot ou e a reat matc . e t e a a s sa a p cture s ort a t ousan or s. ere are so man resources a a a e to ou en oo n for a t erap st t ust o s o n to ma n t e ec s on to actua put n an e ort. on t t n a out at peop e sa or t e fact t at ou ma not t n t erap s for ou. ust o t er one nee s a sten n ear an ou on t necessar a e to a e a menta ness n or er to see e p from a profess ona . Naomi is passionate about women’s health, empowerment, and development. She is currently expanding her makeup brand “I AM BEAUTYFUL,” which focuses on outside beauty and beauty from within. I AM BEAUTYFUL focuses on self-love and lets every woman know that they are FUL of BEAUTY. Her blog “I AM WOMANLY” will launch in early 2019. She can be reached at naomi.ewansiha@gmail.com.
CAREER ADVICE FROM A HR PROFESSIONAL
How to Be CRAZY Strategic Before and After a Career Transition
At some point in your career, you’re going to want to transition to another role. our transition could be prompted by a new year, a desire for something bigger than your current role, or you could be seeking a less demanding ob to prioritize your home. ither way, if you’re moving up, down, lateral, or seeking a completely new career, you have to do it strategically.
Unless your higher being has told you to do so, you can’t just walk out on your job and hope for the best. our light bills are still going to be due. our mortgage is still going to be due. Nobody can tell you it s time to walk away from your current job except for you. Applying for obs blindly is a waste of time. If you think you re ready to transition, here s what you need to do.
BEFORE Be Happy Where You Are In my opinion, it’s really good to look for another job when you’re happy with what you’re doing. Doing so makes sure you’re not just trying to jump ship because someone upset you in the office. orse case, you could end up in another crazy situation in a new place. If you really want a transition, try to look for something when you re in a good space. hen you do that, transitioning careers is not an emotional decision it s a sound one. Apply and Interview for Another Job I’ve been with my company for eight years and I like it. I have no intention of leaving soon, but a couple times a year, I ll apply to other obs. I ll even take it a step further and interview for some jobs because I want to make sure my skillset is still relevant. Interviewing also makes you more aware of how you are presenting your skills. ou want your articulation to be frui ul enough that people will still hit you up a er you decline a position. I want to be sure that if for whatever reason, I need to get another job, I’m prepared to interview.
Benchmark Your Skills Regularly About The Author Area (Regional) Human Resources Manager Catherine L. Wheeler is passionate about developing healthy leaders, organizations, and internal teams. Over the last decade, she has used her skills to build a professional brand known for creativity, strategic action and solutions. Visit TheOnlineCareerStore. com for resume templates and professional resources to help you stand out as a professional.
ou don t have to wait until you re looking for a ob to find out if you have the skillset needed for a new opportunity. Benchmarking your skills throughout the year is a much more proactive approach. O en times when you get into a situation where you have to leave or you ve lost a ob you re shooting blind. ou re trying for the first time to see if you have what it takes to get into the opportunity that you want. Try to Think Ahead When you realize what new job you want, you should think about the ob a er that. oing so will ensure you use your current job to get the skills that you need to get to that next step. I apply and interview for jobs all the time ust to test the waters and see what s out there. If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.
If you re not strategic before you transition, you may miss out on the opportunities you really want. on t be upset and try to jump ship. If you’re happy with your job, go apply for another job. If you don’t hear back, it may be a sign that you need to brush up on a skill or two before you transition. e strategic and stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. The best thing you can do before and a er a career move is give yourself time.
AFTER Update Your Resume My resume stays updated. At minimum, I update it twice a year. You won’t remember everything you’ve done throughout the year, so if you have a new project that yields a high OI write it down. ven if that project doesn’t stay on your resume long, having a record of everything that you’ve done will help you in the long run. Jot down details about where the project originated, who your audience was, and what you accomplished over a specific amount of time. Making sure your resume is tight at all times will help you stay ready so you can stop calling your cousins and family or friends to ask if they have time to look at your resume. You always want to present your skillset at a high level of excellence and people gravitate toward resumes that clearly e press your skillset or e pertise.
Connect on LinkedIn LinkedIn is literally the easiest way to talk to people you normally don’t have access to. It’s a great tool for networking and to make connections that are important. very once in a while, I ll reach out to someone on LinkedIn and say, “Hey, I really love what you’re doing” in a super noninvasive manner. I’ve reached out to Os on LinkedIn, Senior irectors, and had great success. LinkedIn is also a great way to create a dialogue with recruiters. A er an interview, I will go on LinkedIn to reintroduce myself. Before an interview, I will research a recruiter’s background so when we have a conversation, I m not coming into it blind. he knowledge available to you on LinkedIn allows you to leverage career conversation differently. If you re thinking about transitioning your career, go make a LinkedIn profile right now.
BREAK
bites DEVOTED TO OUR FAVORITE PART OF THE WORKDAY-- LUNCH
BOTTOMS UP!
Essentials For a Home Bar Cart.
A few years ago, every magazine, Pinterest account, and showroom had some sort of bar cart dressed with beautiful bottles of alcohol, bar accessories, and perhaps a houseplant. I loved the home design trend instantly. More than anything, I see value in creating a fun space at home that makes it seem like you are having a night out while staying in. I am a firm believer in making your home a place where you really love to be, and a dressy bar cart seemed to create ust that. ar carts can be great. In fact, a fully loaded and glamourous bar cart is ne t on my list of big pro ects for my home. hey can, however, be uite the pro ect. A cart alone can be super pricey and then you have to worry about stocking it up. hile I don t have my dream bar cart yet, I do have a strong desire to create great cocktail e periences at home. ecause I love making new cocktails, having our friends over for a night in, and curling up with a whiskey and water, I have a list of basic bar necessities that I keep on hand to make sure that I can make happy hour, any hour at home.
Start with Glassware If you are still pouring your wine into plastic cups, tisk, tisk. ine glasses, good ones, can be found anywhere you look for an incredibly low price. he same can be said for champagne utes, beer mugs, and other types of glasses. Not only does pouring your alcohol into the right glass make the alcohol meant for said glass taste better, it instantly makes you look like a grown-up. And looks, my friends, go a long way in making yourself feel like you have the grown-up thing down pact.
Buy Good Booze he most important thing you need to have a great home-tail
collection is the alcohol itself. ake a step out of your ud Light comfort-zone and try some new things. I recommend finding the kind of alcohol you love the most and keeping it on hand at all times. In our house, we love dark li uor. Whiskey, Bourbon, Rum, you name it, if it s dark, it s probably got a permanent home on our shelves.
ake a loody Mary for e ample. his basic drink usually includes tomato uice, vodka, and spices like horseradish. In our house, we azz them up to a level that practically turns this cocktail into a meal. y adding things like pickles, celery stalks, cheese cubes, hot sauces and different kinds of herbs, the drink is instantly elevated.
An easy way to push yourself outside of your comfort zone is to pay attention to what you drink when you go out. Start reading bar menus to get inspired. Order something that looks great that you may not have thought to make on your own. If you love it, ask your bartender, “ hat s in it?� alk to the alcohol pros about what is out there in the world, and before you know it, your knowledge and love for new types of alcohol will increase like crazy.
With your new found knowledge, go explore. Buy random bottles of liquor just to try something new. Find the things your truly love and stock up! Our fridge is never short of limes, Topo Chico, or a few bottles of our favorite whiskey. The cabinets are full of different kinds of glass ware for every type of cocktail you can imagine, and we could have a party with our friends at just about any time. Cheers to you homebartenders!
Don’t Forget to Garnish Stock your kitchen with fresh ingredients like fruits, spices, herbs, and olives to make your drinks look e tra tempting. his step is important because it can dress up any boring cocktail recipe and turn it into something really delicious.
About The Author
Hannah Sampson is a professional friendmaker and home improver. Passionate about making homes more beautiful, she is a design consultant based in Dallas, TX. You can connect with her on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or email.
Every cook should have a shrimp and grits recipe in his or her repertoire. Even as a born Southerner, I didn’t always like grits. (I’m surprised the South didn’t disown me!) But I have come to love them. Like anything else, it all comes down to how they’re seasoned. Season these with salt and your favorite cheese, and they’ll turn out delicious and hearty. You could also substitute ground polenta if you prefer. s rec pe s s mp e an eas ut t s so ourmet an a orfu t at our co or ers t n you labored all day in the kitchen. Bon Appetit!
Shrimp & Grits
Step by Step Grits Ingredients 2 cups whole milk 1 cup water 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ½ teaspoon salt cup u c coo n r ts 2 oz Cheddar or Manchego cheese, grated Shrimp Ingredients 1 lb shrimp, raw, shelled, & deveined ta espoons e tra r n o e o Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper ½ lemon To Make the Grits 1. eat a ar e pan o er me um eat 2. Combine the milk, water, butter, and salt in a the saucepan. 3. Bring the mixture to a boil. 4. Add the grits, whisking slowly. 5. Decrease the heat to medium low. 6. Continue whisking until there are no lumps, about 12 minutes. 7. Decrease the heat to low. 8. Cover the pan, and let the grits simmer while you cook the shrimp. 9. Mix in the cheese.
To Make the Shrimp 1. eat a me um pan o er me um eat. 2. Toss the shrimp together with the oil in a small bowl, and add a dash of salt and pepper. 3. Add the shrimp to the hot pan. 4. Stir each piece until each one is pink t rou out m nutes. e carefu not to overcook. 5. urn o t e eat. 6. Squeeze the lemon over the top.
To Serve 1. Spoon the grits onto a plate or into a bowl. 2. s r mp on top.
Lauren Bass is a food blogger at SpeckledSpork.com. This recipe is adapted from The Newlywed Cookbook, available on Amazon.com.
By the year
2020
half of the workforce will be millennials. By the year 2025, it will be 75 percent.
