By Eliana Barriga Publisher and Managing Editor for The Retail Observer ![]() With the holidays rapidly approaching and 2020 (the year of hindsight) coming to a fast close, I find myself contemplating the upheaval and challenges the year has brought: Covid 19, fires, earthquakes, and civil unrest to name a few. As of the time of this writing in mid-November, we are still dealing with much uncertainty, stay at home mandates, public division and await a final resolution for the future of our nation. Are you prepared? Many of us habitually go through life with no plan of action. So, when those “what if” scenarios do arise—we are caught off guard, unprepared and afraid. This only keeps us in reactive mode rather than a responsive one. How can we expect to grow if we are secretly living in fear? Fear for our health and personal safety, fear for the future of our children, fear for the survival of our businesses? The list can go on and on... The first step is to acknowledge that there is an area in your life that does not feel right. An area that could use your attention, and a plan of action. I can tell you that life is a whole lot better when you directly face and handle these areas of vulnerability. Because I chose to do something about my growing concerns for personal safety, I now have a sense of security that has left me with a feeling of empowerment and the courage to shine a light on many other areas of my life and business that need attention. With determination, I encourage you to make a plan and do something about it. As we all ring in the New Year a month from now, I challenge you to live more honestly with yourselves, take the time to identify and remove what’s threatening your peace of mind, health, happiness, and growth in 2021. See you next year, Eliana Barriga [email protected]
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By Eliana Barriga Publisher and Managing Editor for The Retail Observer ![]() With Thanksgiving soon to be on our doorstep, we pause to consider all we have to be grateful for – there is real power in a thankful heart. We really can’t be thankful without feeling grateful. Genuine gratitude changes us; how we look at life. It changes our attitude. We are often exposed to a barrage of negativity as we deal with resentments, ingratitude, entitlement, health issues, loss, etc. Gratitude is an awesome tool, an ally to battle these internal/external threats that rob us of our joy. People who live in a negative state rob themselves of a most powerful experience of heartfelt praise and appreciation in their life. Amazing how gratitude eliminates the negativity. Giving value to others fosters appreciation, which in turn becomes the trans- formative energy of gratitude that changes us on a deep level. Practicing gratitude can be a positive way to find inner peace and contentment. By choosing to be thankful for the wonderful things and people in our daily lives we become healthier and happier. It is a mindful act so simple, yet it brings a lasting happiness and an inner joy to those committed to living the good life. Think about the people in your life who are loving and kind to you. Who has your back by looking out for you? Who has sacrificed in order to make your life better? Do the people closest to you have your best interest at heart? At the end of the day, we all have those people in our lives who add to our happiness. We should never take for granted what another does, gives and sacrifices in order for us to flourish and to be the best version of ourselves. It takes a team in life to come out a winner in the end. Living gratefully has its rewards! Give the gift of joy that comes from loving and helping others. That’s the power of gratitude. So, take thanks beyond your Thanksgiving table this year and show your gratitude by doing something selfless today. Happy Thanksgiving, Eliana Barriga [email protected] |
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December 2021
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