Marc

Hat: Forever 21 | Sweater: Ann Taylor | Romper: Vintage | Boots: Steve Madden

Have you ever felt that you could change the world? That you could make a global impact to make the world better? I haven't, but I know people who have. First, you find an issue that you are passionate about and stick with it. You become a leader. Nelson Mandela said that the key to becoming a good leader is to lead from behind; follow those who have the same drive as you and show them the way to go. I had the privilege of attending We Day, an event celebrating young people who've made a commitment to improve their communities, and the world. Many inspirational speakers, actors, singers, and accomplished individuals spoke including Eileen Collins (the first woman commander in space), four Ugandan girls who created Afrigal (an app that help see if a person has stickle cell), and J.R Martinez (motivational speaker, bestselling author, and winner of DWTS). What all these people had in common was that they are all regular people who had the courage to stand up for what they believe in and pursue it.
One of the main takeaways I got from this event is that your job is not a destination, it is a journey. You find what speaks to you and go with it. You believe in yourself, make progress every day, reach your goal, and become unstoppable. You place your mark on this world. Another important thing I learned is that woman need to be empowered, not to put down or shamed. We have to tell girls that they can do anything they put their minds to and that they are not bossy but instead are the boss. I personally want to live in a world where woman support and inspire one another, not compete or hurt each other. So, I challenge myself and you (if you are willing) to instead of feeling jealous that someone else got something you wanted, that you congratulate them instead of dwelling in the negativity that can devour you. I know, it is really hard and does not happen over night but I think a good first step is to try going one day without complaining. Then two and so on. So far it has worked for me and by focusing on what I want for myself, my friends can support me and I can support them.
More next week
xox
Leah

Camel

Coat: Vintage | Tank: Vintage | Shorts: Nordstrom Rack | Sneakers: Nike | Sunglasses: Loft 

Breaking News: I have just discovered ancient artifacts from my childhood. I thought that was a fun line, but I really did. I found my old song book and read a couple of songs. One is titled "Believing in you," and it is about people changing. This is the first part of the song: "We gotta stay strong, cuz people are gonna change the way they act towards us and we know its all one crazy phase." I know, I know...I was really poetic and spelling and grammar-ly challenged. And yes, I actually did say cause like cuz because that was what the kewl people used to do. Just kidding, I think I did not know how to spell.
Anyway, I was thinking how insane it is that I had recognized this issue even when I was a youngin. (I have no idea where all my supa-trendy adjectives are coming from right now. I apologize in advance.)
I received a comment a few weeks ago that also applies to this topic that I completely agree with. It reads,"It can be hard to stand up for yourself and go against the current no matter the topic." And that is 100% true. People change. It is a fact and it happens whether we like it or not and for the right or wrong reasons. We change to impress others, for self-improvement, or after discovering new interests. I find it interesting though, how people put masks on for different people they are with. We all do it and it is very human. But I am striving to only have one face, my face. The one I show to everyone, the one where I am unapologetically me. The thing is, I have lost/forgotten what my interests and hobbies are to show to the world. I have a difficult time enjoying myself because I don't remember what true, laugh-till-you-feel-your-abs-pop-out happiness is. And that it what I am looking for. When I feel uninspired I continue to read DVF's book and take regular walks. However I don't know if I love it. It is not the thing that I crave or live for. It is similar to trying to find a job that you adore. It is difficult and you need to try a lot of things till you find something. If you have any tips, activities, or hobbies that make you feel happy, I would love to know what they are! This week I am looking for a key to happiness to further my progress to become the woman I want to be.
That is all for this week!
Another progressional update next week!
xox
Leah

Blushing Beauty

Valentines day is right around the corner and is the a hallmark holiday for every relationship. It can become a really cheesy festivity really quickly. But hey! Don't get me wrong, I LOVE those heart shaped chocolates...I mean, who doesn't? You know what they say: Chocolate is a single girls bff. Right? Maybe it is just me. For any of you other single girls out there who just want to stuff their face with ice cream and watch chic flicks all day, stop right here because I have got some ideas for you! 

Although Valentines day is meant for couples, it can also be used as a girl bonding day too. Gather up some of you single girlfriends and take some of these ideas to help you have a sweet day. 

1. Have you and your friends dress as if you were going to a summer brunch where each of you wear soft blush/pastel tones, lace, etc. That way you will all look put-together and the different outfits mesh together. Bonus points for posing cute group photos on insta! 

2. Cook pasta with each other. This Creamy Avocado Recipe is to die for. If you are not into pasta, go check out my food board on Pinterest for other delicious recipes to try. 

3. Make sweet pink cocktails together to toast your amazing friendship and the fact that you aint need no man on Valentines Day. (the second toast is optional...). If you need any drink recipes click here.

4. Listen to some cool tunes whist you eat and have a cute lunch or dinner convo. My current fave is the Indie Electronica playlist from Spotify. Afterwards switch the mood to a dance party! Im telling you, I really, really, really love dance parties. My favorite dance playlist is this one. It has such fun classic songs mixed with some of the most popular songs of today. It is perfection!

5. Have a little DIY project too! Make a really cute kiss-y face art project like this one. That way you can each bring one home after the night is finished and frame it in your room. 

6. Last but not least and my personal favorite one of all...and the most cheesy is... Drumroll please! Badadadada... Chick Flicks! Spend the rest of the night cuddling with your besties watching the ultimate girls night film: The Notebook. Or The Wedding Date, that is a really good one. Or 13 going on 30, and any other rom-coms you can get your hands on.

For all you single ladies out there who do not know what to do with themselves of Valentines Day, I hope this helps! If you do decided to pursue any of these activities with your friends, I would love to hear how it goes! Have a sweet weekend filled with love and happiness.

More next week

xox

Leah 

*All photos Via Pinterest*

P.S there is no progress update because life has begun to get dull again and I need a little bit more motivation to make life more interesting. I hope this plan will help do the trick!