Little Known Facts About Gratitude And Why They Matter

I started to go within and seek out questions about where my life is at this current moment and where it's been and I must say it's been a roller coaster of a ride!

This blog is simply to say THANK YOU! to the people that have supported me and continue to support me in my endeavors. I'm a "Solopreneur" and even though we get to work by ourselves and make our own choices how to go about our business I can't help but to thank each and everyone. It's through the amazing people we have in our lives that we feel we can climb heights! :)

A couple of years ago my life was very different and I have to pinch myself right now as we speak not because I have it all figured out or because I'm a Millionaire but because life would of went totally the opposite direction. When we are at our weakest is when we need God, our families, friends, neighbors, pets etc... in our lives to strengthen us.

This blog is to each and every person that has walked into my life and hold a special meaning in my heart. Every favor, assistance, helping hand, advice has been of great service to me. Strangers become friends and friends become family and it only gets better from here on out.

Thank your family, friends, acquaintances that have helped you be where you are at right now as a token of appreciation. I sincerely have heart for each and everyone.

I've said it before not many females would of made it this far however I do understand indeed I'm a strong female and the support is greatly appreciated.

I used to work as a longshoreman (woman) at the dangerous Ports Of Los Angeles/Long Beach for 10 years. I was blessed to not get hurt while I was working down there but I've seen many injuries and heard of heartbreaking injuries as well. 

And as I think what I've done to make good money $$$ I don't regret it. I was able to learn Leadership skills which is valuable in today's life. When I think about what I had to go through just to work out in the docks I shake my head. I must of really wanted that job really bad as I was willing to do anything to get in there. I was picked through a lottery pool drawing and just because you get chosen does not mean your in. You still have to go through rigorous testing and a written math test. Ugh math! (I passed though) :)

Talk about hunger games! 

Container lashing poles secured 

Never had I experienced anything quite like it. My body was not prepared for it and got injured as I thought I was ready for the test. Boy was I wrong! Had to train to pass the test and at that time had just arrived from Phoenix, AZ needed a job and money was something I lacked. I remember my family helping me in getting steel toe shoes to 20 lb heavy arm bell weights. I practiced daily to have enough upper strength to take the test. It really helped a lot but the test was still difficult.

Have you ever been criticized or someone not believing in you that you have what it takes to do a job? 

Well I remember as I was taking this rigorous test 2 powerful men in HQ were watching us and one said Oh, she is not going to do it! too slow!  We only had 13 minutes to hang ridiculous heavy bars a set of 10 I believe. Not sure the number as it's been a while but there were plenty of bars.

As soon as I heard the man say that something in me FIRED ME UP! and gave me the strength to go hard! In my mind I was saying Oh, I'll show you! It was soo weird as I haven't experienced anything like it. The body is amazing! When it's provoked it switches into survival mode! :) 

I proved them wrong and I passed the test and their face was priceless ha! :)  I still can't believe what I did but that's part of working for a blue-collar job that pays well. That has been the hardest thing I've ever done physically! There are some guys/men that couldn't pass the test but were able to re-take the test. It's all about physical endurance.

And so in order to achieve my goals which were to pass all 3 tests to be officially a casual longshoreman I had to have my family's support in which they did and I am very GREATFUL! :)

What are you Greatful for today? Did you overcome a challenge and had people cheering you on? 

Think about those things. It's in those times that we are thankful and greatful to be alive! :) 

Had it not been for my special people I would not be here writing this blog and for that I am full of Love. XOXO! 

With Much Love
Laura 
XO! 

It's tough to have Bey's Legs but it's far easier to have surefire killer legs you can be proud of

This has been such a significant year for all of us from celebrities passing away to transformations.  A couple of months ago I landed in the emergency room and that was my wake up call! My healthy lifestyle was not moving forward but backwards. Work came first and I remember when this happened I was working on my 21 day blog challenge.  It was pretty ambitious of me to try to write 21 blog posts in 21 days including saturdays and sundays! 

I mean who really has time to blog in the weekends? 

  We all lead busy lives and some of us have families to take care of  but to blog too? I feel for the woman that is doing it all on her own. The single mother.  Running a business from home is not easy. Blogging takes up a lot of time but it’s worth it at the end because your sharing value and inspiring others. 

"You can't motivate, but you can Inspire" - Laura Ramos

A little about this quote is you can't motivate. It comes from the word motives. You have motives, people have motives everyone has them and it's like an Ox. Imagine trying to motivate an Ox that won't get up? However you can "inspire". When you inspire others it's a call to ACTION something needs to be done through inspiration. (in-spirit) and there is no need to motivate. Willingly they will get up. 

So, when I pretty much hit rock bottom in the hospital bed and was informed by the doctor I need to change my lifestyle of indulgent to a healthier lifestyle that is when everything changed for me.  I was given recipes how to eat healthier and what exercises I can do now.  When I drew a line in the sand and said no more over indulging and signed up at my local gym (YMCA) which has everything  I need from zumba classes to spin classes to TRX to swimming and water aerobics to the sauna I said  where do I sign up!

One of my best investments have been signing up for GYM membership as I practically live there.   I work out 4-5 days a week. My tip is find out what you love and do it consistently. I am a Zumba lover as I love to dance and my goal is to have long, lean & strong legs. I've been told I got legs! But, I think I got more like soccer legs and thus it motivates me to work out more and always look forward to zumba class!

At our last zumba class in honor of Juan Gabriel (rest in peace) we danced one of my favorite songs. "el noa noa" which means celebrate more, dance more at the club. He will be missed.  

I’ve lost 12 lbs over the time of 2 months.  I signed up for membership the 1^st week of July and ever since then  I’m pretty much obsessed!  The good obsession J  Losing weight at the beginning is not easy it’s actually difficult as you have to start out by detoxing and cleaning out your system. 

I found a great tea which I don't endorse or market I just heard about it via television informercials and recently seen it at "CVS". It's called Dr. Ming Chinese Tea Price: $14.00 it's made up of natural chinese herbs and works wonders! :) 

Check out tea below in case you'd like to try it. It's not inexpensive but then again I've purchased tea's for $40.00 (a month supply) and this is a good bet to start off. 

Once you detox for about a week you can start eating sensibly but just like anything before you start any program or doing it on your own check in with your doctor. Just thought I'd drop that disclaimer.

80/20 rule states you eat 80% and 20% workout. (Any type of movement) to lose weight. 

Here is a picture of  Laura Ramos and her starting body weight. This is a lifestyle I plan to have for a very long time and expect to transform my body within the next 90 days. Will be adding tips and what's working for me as we speak :)

July/August "Before"

And as I end this vlog my goal is to have long lean strong legs. What I call killer legs! How will I do it? By dancing zumba, running on trendmill, leg machine presses, walking, hiking, eating healthy and limiting my sweets. 

My go to sweets are now "kiwis" which are good for your face too! It's a vitamic C powerhouse which helps you look more vibrant and youthful! :)

Shine On! :)
Laura Ramos XOXO

Mental Illness Is Not A Choice, But Recovery Is...

May  is Mental Health Awareness Month and was inspired to write a blog on what it means to live this illness.  I don't speak by experience however it exists as I've seen family members go through this ordeal of pain and have also volunteered along and worked with mental ill patients in my community.

It happens to everyone. Mental illness knows no  age limit, economic status, race, creed, colors or celebrity status. It doesn't make a difference it happens to all. When I worked as a volunteer for The San Pedro Mental Health Center in my community couldn't understand what happens with the mind as they lead their daily lives and wanted to know more.... this is when I studied "Life Coaching" and "Leader Intership" and received by certification by Harvard PHD Medical School 3 years ago.

I figured helping the ill would make our community a better thriving city however it involved  a lot of hard work... more than I anticipated and I was already working a business from home which took my time away. You need to also learn how to not get too involved in the process as it can affect your life. It became draining to me because I've also dealt with it in my family. 

This is a touchy subject as I haven't come forward speaking of this in itself within my family however we must be authentic as it can help others heal, seek help and know they are not alone. The dilemma is not doing anything about it and thinking it will go away. IT won't go away. 

One of the things people need to understand about mental illness is that we can be clueless as to how to deal with it. I've caught myself as well not knowing how to deal with it when others go through this and how to help... However maybe we can ask "Help me to understand what your going through?" "What's going through your mind?"  

We've heard lots of celebrities that also endure this illness. Some of the greatest Leaders and Celebrities are the following:

• Robin Williams (Rest In Peace)
• Demi Lovato
• Catherine Zeta Jones
• Emma Thompson
• Jim Carrey
• JK Rowling
• John Nash
• Beethoven
• Winston Churchill
• Charles Dickens
• Abe Lincoln

Whether it's bipolar, depression, schizophrenia, paranoia, anxiety... they all derive from mental illness and to not seek therapy or counseling is very unwise! Majority of  times medication will be prescribed however I a a firm believer of healing the mind with a higher power. To me that is God (Jesus Christ) 

Not pushing religion on anyone - (Just thought I'd throw it out there)

There is one things in common that I've found with mental illness people and that is that they are incredibly intelligent. They have great memory, are the most profound mathematicians... Although I was considered a whiz kid (I don't fall into that category)  As a matter of fact I couldn't stand Math! Worse subject ever that I failed over and over again ha! (Just being real!) 

Ever seen the movie "A Beautiful Mind" starring Russell Crow? 

It was based on the life of "John Nash" a nobel in economics. A mathematical genius, he made an astonishing discovery early in his career and stood at the brink of international acclaim but the handsome and arrogant Nash soon found himself on a painful journey of self-discovery. 

That movie was crazy! You didn't know what was real and what happens with a person that suffers this illness. Movies are incredible because they depict real life stories of what people go through and helps us understand a little more of what they go through in life. Another movie similar was "What's eating Gilbert Grape" Anyone remembers? Starring Johnny Depp and Leo DiCaprio (oldies but goodies)

And the reason I write this blog is to share this month's awareness and to be REAL. It takes guts to be real but it takes more guts to accept help and seek recovery.  Recovery takes time and if you suffer from it and unable to function in your daily activities my suggestion is to seek therapy. If it's too expensive research programs in your neighborhood. Medi-cal can be accepted or your own private insurance... But seek HELP! As it won't simply go away... 


"End The Stigma"

Omg! The Best 21 Day Challenge Ever!

Today marks my final hours of the 21 day blog challenge I challenged myself and I must say I’m so Greatful that it ends tonight! I didn’t think it was going to be this difficult but it has and it’s okay because nothing easy is learned. The reason I say it’s been difficult is because writing 1 blog per day (Monday-Sunday) can be a challenge!

We all lead busy lives, have families, chores, duties, run errands, workout, work a side job whatever it is that you do… you are always doing something and to know you have to spare an extra 1-2 hours to blog without distractions can be a doozy! I seriously have soo much respect for women who have kids (single-moms) as they have to care for their kids and work their business.

As someone who doesn’t have kids I said Oh I got this! My schedule is free however lots of things got in the way and glad I was able to travel to the woods to pet sit my sister’s kitty because I needed that downtime to get creative out in nature and get caught up in blogging. I was able to blog however the kitty “honey” was very attentive and needy and wanted time spent with her…. It’s kinda odd because cats are not this attached. Ha!

So, I’m on my last blog… Blog #21 and pretty challenged! But, hey the fact that I’m writing it means I said I would do it and I did! Prior to this challenge I would procrastinate! If we are speaking in all honesty here to speak the truth is... not sugar coating anything... Something always got in the way and would get distracted easily but now things are soo different. Yay! Si Se Puede! (Yes You CAN!)

What this challenge has taught me is that it becomes the norm when you blog a lot throughout the week, so yes friends 21 day challenges do work! I have come accustomed to write, write, write and that is all I know now. That’s a great thing. I just needed that breakthrough and I’ve found it. It’s by applying ACTION! And just doing it anyway. The fact that it was a challenge is what made me just do it!

And now my question to you is…. Do you struggle with procrastination? It’s been said that diligence is the mother to success! I suggest you do a 21 day challenge on any part of your life that you are struggling with. Is it to release anything? Then take baby steps one day at a time for 21 days. As you get into day 13 you will start noticing your on a roll and the rest gets easier however know at the end you will probably get tempted to quit and that is when you have to push harder like what I’ve done now.

So that’s it Peeps! Hope you all have enjoyed my blogs and look forward to more blogs as I have decided to write 3-4 blogs a week! (I’m shooting for 3 blogs but 4 is my number this year so I might do 4!) ha! :)

To Your SUCCESS!

What Do Stars Do To Be Happy... :)

Wikipedia defines "Celebrities"  as fame and public attention in the media, usually applied to a person, group of people (celebrity couple, family, etc.), or, occasionally, to animals. 

Celebrity status is often associated with wealth (commonly referred to as fame and fortune) and fame can often provide opportunities to make money.

Successful careers in sports and entertainment are commonly associated with celebrity status; political leaders often become celebrities. People may also become celebrities due to media attention for their lifestyle, wealth, or controversial actions, or for their connection to a famous person.

I began to research what celebrities do to stay happy as they are like all of us only difference is they have more chi-ching! And this is what I found and you will see your not any different. We are all people and next time you see one... don't be star-struck (note to self) ha! 

• 1) THEY FOLLOW THEIR PASSION - it takes nerve to do what you love! They’ve done just that and show what can happen when you commit to a dream the rest of the world thinks your crazy. They don't quit or let others get in the way of their goals
• 2) THEY DEFINE THEIR OWN SIGNATURE STYLE - forget the trend du jouivez. Enduring icons develop their own unique style and identity. Think of your all time idol. Chances are she can claim a signature look or defining fashion statement.
• 3) THEY TAKE RISKS- Whatever its playing an unexpected role, experimenting with a new hairstyle or speaking up about controversial issues, trendsetters have the courage to put themselves out there
• 4) THEY ARE GREATFUL - The benefits of cultivating gratitude are endless.  Being thankful opens doors, enhances self-esteem and improves emotional mental and physical states.
• 5) THEY FIND INSPIRATION IN OTHERS-Why go it alone? Mentors offer guidance and support professionally and personally. Models are admired because they recognize the importance of asking for help.
• 6) THEY KEEP IT POSITIVE - They are optomistic, root for themselves, live in the present and understand the importance of self-care, our most admired stars approach their goals holistically from all angles and find balance in work, family and play (One star comes to mind: Gwyneth Paltrow)

These are pretty good traits we can also follow as our self-care matters and should be a priority in our lives. When we inspire others, take risks, define our own style, keep it positive and most importantly follow our passions we can be unstoppable! 

Have a great one! 

XO

An Exclusive Tip For You! :)

What happens when you hear the words "Power Position?"  Do you automatically think Leadership? In charge? Independent? As John C. Maxwell writes

"Leaders have the ability to help people see the light. Leaders have hope and in order to Lead you must be open not closed" (Quote) 

When you think of an open door do you automatically assume "Open For Business?"  Well you should and I will tell you why...

I learned from Kate Northrup (Enterpreneur, Author, Speaker) about the concept of leaving your door open when it comes to opportunities. Décor matters. Cute décor matters however powerful décor is game changing! I will explain a little further in hope it  can help anyone with limiting opportunities or feeling stuck. 

Question? How is your desk aligned? Is it facing the wall? Is it facing a stereo? Is it facing a window? Do you have your back towards the door? All of this matters and this is the secret sauce many don't know and wonder why they can't attract opportunities. If your good with your business, job, career, hobby ect… then by all means this is not a blog for you to read (just being real)

However…

If you feel stuck and would like to attract opportunities you are in control of then continue reading my friends :) See, when I started to apply "Your Power Position" in my career things started happening… I began to attract plenty of opportunities only dilemma was choosing the right opportunity (That is something that can't be taught but acted upon you only)

So, how does this work you might say? Well first of all it starts with creating plenty of space and by that I mean opening your front door from your office and facing looking out. Sit with your back against the wall. When you do this, you are in your power position to make decisions, to be in control, ect… and who doesn’t want that?

Here is a throwback video that I created months ago (pay no mind to shameless plug!) :) The point of this video is to share how I've created my office decor. It is very different now I have new dark cherry wood furniture and flower plants and frames but still have my red carpet which I love! :) 

Anyhow, there it is! That is the secret sauce to being more open to opportunities, relationships, friendships... We can never have that many friends right? 

XO! 

Have Your Heard? Nature Is Your Best Bet To Rejuvenate!

Gotta love nature! :)  Whose with me? The trees, the animals, the greenery, the plants, flowers, the lakes, the friendly people. That's what's buzzing! This week I've been cat sitting for my sister and brother in law which they took a mini-vacay and when asked if I would like to pet sit I was all over it! See my sister lives out in nature not the normal city life or non-cabin like homes and knew already I needed this vacay to spend time in nature and ponder about life.

I can say this week has been transformational when it comes to mindset, eating healthy, pampering myself, being by myself, healing from my beloved bird "Einstein" that recently passed away but "Honey" the kitty cat (meow) has been very loving and attentive to me which lots of the heartbreak I received when my birdy passed away was replaced with pet sitting.

And so as I had the house cabin to myself and became sort of a hermit but not really because I was still connected with social media and had lots to think about where my life is headed. These are changing times and times of new beginnings. Times when you need to make your own choices, decide what you want out of life and how your going to make it happen.

This week I learned how to cook new dishes and experimented cooking white rice and quinoa together in a rice cooker. I eat rice (maybe not much) however I only have eaten quinoa twice and it's really good. And so I cooked rice and it came out delicious! Cooked also chicken, bow tie pasta with alfredo fettucinni pasta sauce also delicious and a side salad. I was pretty proud of myself as I don't take this much time cooking and savoring the food.

Here is a picture of my rice (white rice + quinoa) it's soo easy and soo healthy :)

White Rice + Quinoa

What I really love about nature and the outdoors is the weather and breathing the fresh pine trees surrounding where I'm staying. It's soo beautiful and for the past day it's been raining so it's even more beautiful. Heard tomorrow will rain as well I can just imagine what it's like to see the snow.

Here is a picture I took overlooking nature in the morning drinking coffee

Balcony Overlooking The Pine Trees

Soo much green! 

And so as you can imagine I've been having a peaceful, relaxing retreat by myself. Pondering on life, meditating, being in stillness and overlooking the stars at night in the balcony. What's amazing is that even though it seems country like as soon as you go downhill your back in the city! It's reasonable to live out here and mostly retired folks live here or Enterpreneurs. There is scarcity of jobs out here due to the area unless you work from home and who would not want to work from home living out here. 

I decided to get real estate out here in the near future. It's great to retreat yourself out in nature and just relax. Can I live here forever or retire here? Not really. I'm very much a city girl love the action, the people, the cars but it's nice to once in a while get away. So my takeaway of this getaway from home has been to spend more quality time taking care of self. Loving myself by eating healthier, pampering, hiking, getting lost! Yes, I also got lost in the woods not knowing how to get back home as it is very confusing but prayer and affirmations work! Had to keep telling myself I got this! Until I finally found myself back home. It was pretty funny and I laugh now but then it wasn't that funny :)

So, you can pretty much say I feel rejuvenated! Ready to tackle the world one blog at a time. I'm on a 21 day blog challenge that ends on April 17th exactly on that date and tomorrow will do my best to write 3 more blogs to be up to date of having written 12 blogs! Yes I Can! Anywhooo I digress from the topic and ready to get my beauty sleep as I am wearing a mud mask on and it's cracking a bit which means I need to wash off my face pronto! Yes beauty costs and we need to be up to date not only from the inside but outside as well :)

Goodnight :) 

How To Make Leadership The Ferrari Of The Film Industry

If you can make a controversial film yet bring change you have succeeded.

There are  many great films that have sparked change in people's lives and have provided a different  type of perspective. One example was the film "Precious" based on the movie "Push" by Sapphire. This film ignited a controversy a year after the release. At that time New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg had a strong reaction watching "Precious" as it centered in the fizzy soft drinks we all have grown to love!

The Mayor wanted to push a limit size of soft drink in NYC due to seeing the film. The plan was to stop selling the sugar rush drinks no more than half a liter in cinemas, restaurants, sports stadiums. In 2012 The NYC Health board accepted the limit yet due to objections and appeals and not acting quick it was dismissed before it could pass law.  This is just a prime example of what can happen when great films are made and it inspires authorities, people in Leadership to step up and take action! 

This blog is not about Hollywood or film it's just an example as to what can happen when great Leadership is in place. The changes one can make around the world, the influence, the transformations... When I think of great Leadership I see people in power taking action for the greater good. It's not stepping on others to achieve what you desire but in being a servant to others, it's knowing the great need and inspiring others to be at their best. One of my favorite quotes:

"If you can inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more you are a Leader"

 We don't need more leaders. But Great Leaders not only in Government (Politics) but in Business. Reputation is everything. How are you perceived. This is why when political figures are candidates for presidency the first thing that is revealed is their dirty laundry, it gets exposed from what they've done, where they've been and what impact have they've done in society. But, then again you had Bill Clinton and although he had an affair with Monica Lewinsky and declared he never had an affair with that woman people didn't care they just wanted him to make things happen in the white house and I'm not talking about secret affairs :) 

So what defines Great Leadership? It's simply inspiring others to become better but you must Lead first. See when I worked at the west coast ports and we were assigned jobs to lead it didn't mean waiting on others. We had to take action or else someone would get hurt or die. It was that serious. Most of these jobs were called ,"signaling" Lots of people hated these type of jobs because you were always on alert and your eyes were not only a crane operator but all others working with you in the team. I already knew when taking those type of jobs I needed a redbull, strong coffee or sweets. Why? I needed to be on alert. 

Those were the days that stay with me and humble me because I don't have it like that anymore however doesn't mean my Leadership skills are void. Running a business takes Leadership Action! We impact people's lives. We can lead them astray or lead them in the right path. So which path are you leading? What changes can you make just as the film industry that makes a person in power change as well or get inspired? 

Just some questions to think about as I end this blog because it really does matter how you lead today. 

To Leadership! 

Make Your Opportunities A Reality

Merriam-Webster defines the word: "OPPORTUNITY" as a good chance for advancement or progress. 

When  I hear of opportunities to me it just means an opportune time to make something a reality however it doesn't always pan out that way. Truth is you need to align yourself with people who want to see you succeed!  We often hear lots of opportunities... yet you need to do your diligence and research or you can be a risk-taker and not be afraid of the circumstance but make that leap!

I've ventured in several opportunities and from my previous blog posts I'm here to say I have not been a millionaire just yet. It does take determination, perseverance and integrity. Don’t be a one hit-wonder otherwise other will want to be one as well. We are here to set examples of who we are. It's our responsibility to let others know truth is this is what is required:

1. Investment needed
2. Social Media tools / guidance / branding 
3. Hours applied
4. Skills set
5. Mentorship needed

Upon taking a leadership/coaching class I was clueless as to what I just signed up for!  I am a life- long learner (student for life) and a risk-taker and have leaped into several businesses and don't regret not one of them. They've all taught me something it's called Growth. When I encountered the opportunity that would change my life it didn't come in a gift with a big giant red bow. It came disguised as an obstacle.

And so I think are we able to discern an opportunity when it's concealed as an obstacle?

Many times we go for the easy route and decline opportunities that seem hard. The way I see opportunities is that no matter where you go, what you do there will be challenges you will need to encounter. What's easy is sleazy. (As I've heard Leaders quote this awesome quote!)

I had just left my 1st networking marketing company as many changes were happening with the company and felt it was in my best interest to do something else. I also was not passionate about the service and had to be real. Being that I am a volunteer for The City Of San Pedro and was volunteering at the local mental health center a couple of hours was recommended to work for the city.

Upon recommendation from Doctors at the clinic was asked If I'd be interested in taking credits for a course in which I can use the education to apply for the city job. I needed a job and therefore it wouldn't hurt to get some education.  I received lots of breakthroughs not only was I learning about myself but also learning about the brain, depression, anxiety and mindsets. The class was taught by Harvard PHD's and was fascinated in learning more. To say the least I learned what I needed to learn and mastered the logic that I once heard a Successful Leader say "When a woman has mastered logic, men and done".

See in order to influence women, it's not through logic, it's through the heart. In order to influence men it's through logic. And when women have mastered the logic, more women can take over leaderboard room meetings, speaking venues and make hard choices. Our emotions can lead us astray and can be very deceiving. You decide! 

Everytime we use see a male receiving lots of attention  from the opposite sex it's because they use their heart. And males who are philosophical, who teach, who are worldly-known (think attorneys, engineers, professors,  architects) use their brain. I'd like to think of myself as both but can be a little more logical as I question everything. My curiosity get me everytime! 

In order to find a solution... Key is asking a question. Your brain will answer.

I didn't plan to become a Life Coach. It was not in my radar. As a matter of fact upon graduation I couldn't even get in the door to get hired at the clinic. I can still volunteer but not have a city job as additional education was required. Another year of clinical school besides a college degree. I was not too excited of having a job as I had just left a business working from home in which I had control of. I was making the decisions not a boss.

So, because I didn't get the job a light bulb appeared and decided to take it online because that is where all the eyeballs are at and to be an Enterpreneur you must find the need and fill it. Many people suffer from depression and often take medicine and although I am not a PHD I do believe it's all about mindset. Mindset is just a "SET-MIND" 

This is how I birth my career as a Life Coach unexpectedly. Through a connection that lead to nowhere after I graduated however it was a blessing in disguise. See we don't know where God will lead us. We may see it as an obstacle however what it has taught me was the necessary skills needed to dive in the infested water of sharks. Forewarn is forearmed. Am I able to use it for business? Definitely.  Do I need to use it? No. My services are not for intimidation purposes. It's simply to help people overcome their addictions, problems, mindsets ect….

As I end this blog think of opportunities as blessings in disguise.  Are some risky? Yes. Are you guarantee to succeed? Of course not. Can you succeed? Of course. Life is a risk itself but will it matter 10 years from now? No unless you become a wealthy person then it will be inspiring however if you didn't succeed your still a bad-ass as you don't think like everyone else. Your different.

To know more about my coaching services go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2LZJXXB and fill out questionnaire. Will contact you and we will go from there. 

Have a great day! :)

The Science Behind The Past And Why It Matters Today

I once heard Steve Jobs quote about connecting the dots in his commencement speech to Stanford University students and never heard this concept. He mentioned only by looking at your past you can connect the dots forward. I so agree with this because until you clear up the past, review it, ponder, meditate or pray is when you understand it was all meant for your good. 

My past has been like a rollercoaster. I've had my share of ups and downs and I don't regret those times as it's made me who I am now. I am a strong sexy female. Sometimes we have to experience it so we appreciate the present and I'm very greatful believe me! Because I'm a risk-taker I've taken many risks in life and all I can do is look back and say had I not took a risk I'd probably be living a boring life and not experience it! 

Ever since I can remember I've always tried something new to learn in choosing my ultimate career. While attending school I've always worked it was just something that I needed to do to make extra money. My most memorable experience was working as a telemarketer for "ERA" Real Estate in which my boss was the CEO. He was looking for someone without experience to sell homes. When I heard real estate it was like Oh, wow how prestigious! When I got hired on the spot I thought I was going to an office and it was the total opposite. I was going to his home. He was a christian family man very nice to me and so I worked out of his garage that was built into a cute office. 

He gave me MLS listings and a fat book like a bible. I said What in the world?! My job was to call every number and cold call to get leads. I had no idea what I was doing but I had a script and then tweeked it to my liking. I needed to be myself and sound like myself even back then. I needed to understand what I was doing and why. I always prepared myself for everything. So I learned by experience. Lo and behold I sold 2 homes. My job entailed of getting the leads and giving the information to my boss, then would set up appointment to meet up at his office. He did the rest which was showing the house and if it sold, it sold and I got paid! Chi-Ching! $$$ 

This is how I learned cold calling. Tele-marketing is not such a prestigious job but what kept me going was the money. When I would see the money coming in I was getting addicted however knew I couldn't do this forever. I needed to get back to school and was only doing it part-time. My boss said I would be a good real estate agent and mentioned if I was interested I could let him know and he'd help me get the license. Because back then others opinions mattered and was told real estate salespeople lie and trick people and they didn't see me in that business I didn't pursue it. 

I then held other corporate jobs in logistics and transportation and had some great times and other times they were not so great. I was not fullfilled. The last company I was in merged with another company when I lived in Arizona and although through a connection I was offered a new position in Scottsdale, AZ in same industry I declined. Decided to return to Cali and the beaches. Was missing my family and friends and that is when I heard of hiring of Longshoremen's at the port of Los Angeles/Long beach through a lottery pool.

I applied because my father said I should do it. I was not too excited about it but said heck I need to get back to work. 10 years of hard work! Hustle! One thing I realized was money can be addicting and I was in bondage. I worked weekends, holidays, rain or shine and whenever there was work. Missed birthday parties, weddings, celebrations all to make money. It was crazy now that I think about it. What is the point of making money if your not enjoying it as you are working 24/7 around the clock?

Best experienced I received was here at the ports. Learned how to lead, be a leader, work safe and be alert. The responsibility was huge and if someone died at work it would be due to unsafe practices or because someone didn't watch their back. It was very united just as are all unions. My strength was challenged at this job and will power sometimes I'd surprise myself but lots of prayer worked. I was very close to God as without him working out there would be foolish.

Decided to end working there after giving it lots of thought I didn't want to be a slave to the money and needed to work at a safer environment where it's fun. Where I'm learning, traveling and that is when I returned back to Network Marketing. It was hard to leave the job as a longshoreman very hard! I was addicted to making that money even at the expense of my freedom! I know sounds ridiculous..! So what happened next changed my life for the better.... Got into a car accident!

After my car accident I couldn't go back to work and said well, I guess God decided for me then.... I continued my network marketing business at home since I had no car and it didn't pan out as I thought as the the business was centered in having home parties and without a vehicle there is not much you can do! Did my best what I can however the rest left it to God. I've learned many valuable experiences in Network Marketing with personal development even though money not soo much. 

Since I'm a volunteer for The City Of San Pedro a door opened to learn how to have leadership skills in order to work for  a city job within the area of mental and health. Studied for 6 months and got certified by teachers from Harvard. It was an incredible experience and learned soo much. That is when I found out I needed additional education besides my college and credits from this school. Lots of requirements and that is when I said well, at least I learned how to coach and took it online. Lightbulb turned on and said eyeballs are on social media and many need help in how to overcome obstables, mindsets, etc.... 

And now I'm here as a certified life coach, blogger and getting eyeballs to my work by hollywood by simply putting myself out there and learning from  famous Sally Hogshead CEO of How To Fascinate she teaches how to brand and market online and offline. Copywriter for Mini Cooper, Godiva Chocolates, Coca-Cola, Harry Winston Jagermeister ect.... and speaker for many other companies. Just purchased her book "Fascinate" new edition 2016 coming out mid April. 

Truly obsessed with marketing and branding.  As a catalyst this is what gives me passion. And so I ask myself must I of went through all of this to get here? Yes. See in life we have many choices and must do our diligence however if we are blind and not sure where we are heading this can happen but I had no regrets. I do what I want and can take my business anywhere in the world. I blog as I travel and that is pretty sweet! :) 

I don't know what the future holds and the more I think of it the more anxious I can get so I'm not even going to think about it. I'm just moving forward by connecting the dots and greatful I am in this position to call the shots. I decide whether it's good or not. Whether I need more education or skills. Life is interesting i tell ya! :) 

So appreciate the detours because you are where you are suppose to be! :)

XO! 

Have You Heard? Taking Action Is Your Best Bet To Succeed?

April 1st! April Fools! :) There is something about spring that brings joy, happiness, sunshine yet it can also bring in showers but now that spring is upon us we can look forward to brighter and warmer days. Often a change of season can be a time to reflect the year is moving ahead and time to think about problems or situations remained unsolved. 

Yes I know...to some this bites! 

Great time to think about holiday plans for summer or what changes you would like to make for the middle of 2016! Is it to publish written work? Get additional education? Learn something new? Look your best? Start a new workout routine? Attend festivals (Coachella)?  A new makeover? Eat healthier? A new career? New love interest?

These are times when the unknown can be pretty scary for some and for others they take it with a grain a salt. Whatever comes is their motto. You can't control everything and therefore you must let go and release for what may come. We could only control what we can and what we can't just let go. 

When I think of April I think Spring! Flowers, sunshine, hiking, photography, sight-seeing, people watching, traveling, sport games, networking, making friends. It's the 1st month of the 2nd quarter of 2016. The first 3 months equals one quarter and as march ended (last month of 1st quarter) it was a time of planting seeds. Now we are in 2nd quarter of the season and we need to water it and nurture it. 

Think about what plans you made and took action on in the first 3 months (Jan-March) Now we can water the seed for growth. It's in it's baby stages maybe one leaf trying to bloom out of the ground and as you water it and talk to it sweet things (nurturing) it will grow in love. Treat your business idea, project, love relationship as if it were your baby. As time goes by you will see it expand and grow.....

So, now as we enter the 2nd quarter (April-June) it's your chance to make things happen! Don't wait till it's November and then try to hurry and make things happen before the year ends to accomplish your goals or what your working on.... Life doesn't work that way. It's best to start early and watch (what your working on) grow just as a baby grows. 

It's time to get serious about your life and empower others with your gifts and talents.  It's selfish to have these abilities and not do anything with them. It's your responsibility to use your God-given talents. Focus on your work and just look ahead. Don't look back, right or left just as a marathon runner... He/She moves forward till they reach the finish line.  

Friends we are in our 4th mile of the marathon of life. We have just passed 3 miles and got 9 more miles to go! GO GO GO!!! (Especially right now) it's crunch time! 

Cheers to Action! 
Laura :)

Being A Rockstar In Your Industry Is A Matter Of Giving

FOR TICKETS:  www.classy.org/cdvgolf2016

Was doing some research on the meaning of giving and stumbled upon a video from Tony Robbins on giving and how transformation happens when you give. Also read prior to becoming a multi-millionaire, speaker, coach, motivator.... he experienced major setbacks such as living with scarcity of food and reason why now he gives to food banks to help the needy.

What can Tony Robbins teach us today?  When you focus on just what you are getting and not giving is when you need to change. He challenges you to make your life a masterpiece. He challenges you to join the ranks of those people who live what they teach, who walk their talk.

I love to get inspired and reading these stories get me fired up because they show you in life you don't have to be born with a silver spoon but the opposite. See many times we see successful people and think they were born into it when in fact in order to get where they are at it took lots of sacrifice, strength, perseverance and a ton of passion which Tony Robbins doesn't lack I might add! :)

The more you give the more you receive. Some of the most wealthiest people have one thing in common they GIVE. Why? Because they are always giving. Think Bill Gates. Some may lose businesses or fail in business but as soon as it was lost they gain it back one way or other and then you wonder how did they do that? How were they able to purchase a large home? a luxurious car? A nice expensive watch? Nice alligator shoes or red bottom heels? Yes these are all material things however the point is there is seldom lack.

From what I can remember I've always been giving due to my upbringing. Was I always like this or did I have a generous gene? No. As a kid I was sort of selfish and as I grew up my mom raised me to be selfless, giving and that is when it was ingrained in me and wanted to give to people. I noticed the more I gave the more I got. Charity does not always come in the form of money but advice, value, time etc... :)

And so now that I am older (as the oldest child in my family) I've always been responsible for helping my peers and siblings and neighbors. This is why I volunteered in my community, politics, became a philantropist, give back to charities and desire to one day open my own non-profit sometime in the future. (God willing) There is nothing more full filling then to give but you must have it in you to give.

I love to promote charity events as it's a form of giving. 3 years ago I ran the L.A. Marathon (26.5 miles) from Los Angeles to Santa Monica Pier. It was challenging however I did it with passion and a happy heart for the kids. What kept me going was my WHY!  Had I not been running for a charity and know kids were depending on me I must say I'd probably would not of ran unless I wanted to challenge myself but in this case it was not about me but about the kids

There is a special charity coming up and reason why I am writing this blog post as well. It's our 1st Annual Corazon De Vida Golf Charity Tournament in partnership with Kingdom Coalition for Kids. Take a look at the video below of the event and anyone interested in attending, avid golfers, athletes can attend and have dinner. Tickets are available at: www.classy.org/cdvgolf2016

Check Out Corazon De Vida Golf Video! By the way just received news celebrities will be attending. If you enjoy networking this is an event not to miss! You never know what one person can lead you to another and another and another.... Connections! :)




Have a great day! :)