Wednesday, December 22, 2010

What Women Want

I recently was asked, "What is important to a women, what do they look for in guys?"

Such a good question and one that I actually have been thinking about lately. When it comes to looks, I know such is based on a woman's preference but there are definitely some fundamental things we all look for such as integrity, strength of will, great compansionship, and passion. The role of the man and women has seemed to change quite a bit over the last decade. Women are becoming more masculine and doing more than ever before and men are struggling to figure out what it is that women need and want while adjusting to the role change.


If you have not done so already, both "Wild at Heart" and "Captivating" are great books that dive into the basic needs and wants of men and women. Although the life roles of men and women continue to morph, I believe the core of men and women never really change.

A woman wants a man that will go to the end of the earth for her. She wants a "MAN" that will slay dragons and fight wars for her. She wants a man that will love and support her, that marvels in her beauty, femiminity and strength. In return, this woman will support her man like no other. She will allow him to conquer the world and will support  him through the fight. She will put her faith and trust in him.  I know this may sound old school but at the end of the day that is what holds a relationship together. Money, looks, status...all of those things can come and go....what really is important is trusting eachother with the most important thing you own...your heart.

Shine ON!!

Keri

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

The Undercurrent

Every morning I receive my daily horoscope in my inbox. My usual response is a quick look and delete.  Who really believes that stuff anyway? However, today's horoscope had me thinking about the undercurrent. You know, that thing that is happening below the surface that you can't see or feel yet, but you definitely know it's there. You realize that with just one step, you could be swept underwater or carried out to a new destination. The undercurrent can be scary and yet it is just part of the natural ebb and flow of life.

What you do in your everyday life is building the undercurrent for what is going to happen next. It builds up and then just like that, it will sweep you off your feet. Do you know what you are building? Is the new current taking you forward in a positive way or will it capsize you underwater?

Certainly something to think about.

Here is what my horoscope said today:

"You know there's more going on than you can immediately see, but you need to just hold back and let it all play out. Sometimes the undercurrents are really all there is, and this is one of those times."

Shine ON!!

Keri

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Hello World

It is Halloween weekend and although the sun is shining in Los Angeles, you can feel the crisp fall in the air.

I listened to Lady Antebellem's new song, "Hello World" and it brought me back to a message I write about often. What is your world about? What is your purpose? Do you even have one?

We all want love, but we hardly give it.

We all want money, but all we do is spend it.

We all want fame, and yet most will abuse it.

We all want acceptance, and yet it's easier to judge it.

You're life is the sum of what you give.

Shine ON!

Keri

Friday, October 15, 2010

To Botox or Not to Botox?

By Dr. Catherine Begovic

Almost everyone has heard about Botox, but most people don’t know a lot about it. Although Botox comes from “botulinum toxin” – the name is scarier than need be.  Most people don’t know this but prior to being used for cosmetic reasons, Botox was used for facial spasms, sweating, migraines, and many other medical indications for over 20 years.  It was introduced as a cosmetic product and approved by the FDA to treat the area between the eyebrows in 2002.  Approximately 11.8 million Botox cosmetic procedures have been administered in the U.S. since then.

Most people ask me when they should start using it. There isn’t a set age.  Many of my patients and I, myself, started in our late 20s’ to prevent deep wrinkle formation.  I think of it like folding a piece of paper – if you don’t keep folding it, you don’t get a deep crease.  Botox definitely helps soften lines in slightly older patients as well.  As a rule of thumb, each patient is different.  I evaluate my patients individually and ask them what aesthetic look they are searching for.  Botox is a technical art and should not be taken for granted.  Every patient’s anatomy needs to be carefully considered as well as what they want to look like.  Too often I see patients with poorly placed Botox resulting in abnormal joker looking eyebrows or asymmetries.  Also, Botox should be administered differently for men to keep them from looking natural and masculine.  Yes, you heard me – men get Botox too.

My husband, a bodybuilder and fitness model from Europe (a real manly man) first laughed at my suggestion he start using Botox.  I informed him that 6% of all Botox procedures are performed on men and that it is the most popular minimally invasive physician administered aesthetic procedure for males.

I convinced him to let me try it on him to smooth out the deep horizontal forehead wrinkles he had and soften the lines between his eyebrows and around his eyes.  I don’t believe in completely freezing men – it looks unnatural.  My philosophy is to soften some of the lines but allow normal movement.  Needless to say he was impressed at how he looked.  We’ve gone back and looked at some of his old headshots and the difference is significant.  Now he’s hooked!

In this day and age, especially in Los Angeles, it is just as important for men as it is for women to take care of their skin and appearances.  I have several older male associates and friends who feel regret for not starting preventative anti-aging practices in their youth.  Don’t make the same mistake!

About Dr. Catherine Begovic:

Dr. Catherine Huang Begovic is a Harvard educated Plastic and
Reconstructive Surgeon in Beverly Hills, CA. She completed not one,
but TWO surgery residencies at UCLA - Head and Neck surgery (Cancer,
Facial Plastics, Reconstruction) as well as Plastic and Reconstructive
Surgery.  Dr. Huang Begovic prides herself in paying special attention
to detail.  As a woman and plastic surgery patient herself, she has a
special understanding for her patients.  She is the featured Beauty
and Health expert for Beauty TV and has published or presented around
40 articles in scientific journals and meetings on topics ranging from
molecular biology, cancer, anti-aging, skin care, fat stem cells, to
vaginal cosmetic surgery.
www.makeyouperfect.com

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

The Freedom to Choose

It really is amazing the freedom we have in America each day. We have the freedom to decide where we want to live, where to work and whom we spend our time with. We have the freedom to create whatever life we want for ourselves. The ability to choose our faith, our friends and where we live are extravagances that millions of people in other countries will never see.

What do you do with that freedom?

Do you push it aside or do you push to see how far you can go with it? Do you dream and live aware of all the choices around you OR do you complain; unsatisfied with the life you have created? Do you use this freedom to sculpt a life so exquisite that others will be infinitely touched or do you simply leave it as a ball of clay that never had the joy of being experimented with?

There are no boundaries to your excellence. There are no lines in which you have to color within…with freedom; you get to create your own lines. The only boundaries are the ones created from the unwillingness to look and step beyond them.

There are people out there that sacrifice all they have for such freedom. They put their life on the line…they say goodbye to loved ones and life as they know it.

The shackles of another do not bind us…we only lay prisoners in our mind.

Be grateful for such freedom and all that is available to you.

A grateful heart is a joyful one, and a joyful heart is FREE.

Dream it. Live it. Be it.


Shine ON!!

Keri

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Want What You Have

The best way to have what you want; is to want what you have.

Why are we always looking for something better, faster, or bigger than what we already have? Isn't that what has got us in this huge financial mess? I am certainly no economist but I would say that is definitely one of the main contributing factors. In fact, I would go out on a huge limb and say that as a society, we are so consumed with what we want next that we ignore or simply forget all the magnificence that surrounds us.

Want what you have…that's quite the interesting concept. If you do not want what you have, take action to change it while appreciating all that is around you. Be grateful for all that you do have. There are millions of people that would simply love to live with a roof over their head.

I also think this quote also relates to the non-material aspect of life as well…relationships, partners, our own self-esteem.

There is nothing wrong with striving for greatness in life. I love that in America if you can dream it, it can happen. It is only when we start living with the narrow focus on “things” or what we want next, that we forget how fortunate we really are.

Shine ON!

Thursday, August 12, 2010

5 Tips That Will Have You Sizzling!

Summer is in full effect and all of us want to look and feel our best. Here are 5 tips that will have you sizzling (without the sunburn!)

1. Protect yourself. We all love a golden tan but nothing will show your age like too much sun. Make sure to wear a minimum SPF 30 on your face, like Dermalogica Super Sensitive Face Block SPF 30 and at least SPF 15 on your body and reapply ever couple hours. Better yet, wear a hat or use a great tanning gel, no one will know the difference.

2. Take your workouts outside. Work out your body and soul by changing up your gym routine and take to cross training at the beach or going for a hike. You will love the fresh air and your body will love the change of routine. Give it a couple weeks and you will see some major changes in your body and your spirit!

3. Keep the black at bay. I know it is tempting to pull out that little black dress but dare to sparkle by heading out in color. Guys, this is for you too! Light, bright colors not only make you feel good, they draw others to you as well. You will be the life of wherever you go.

4. All in moderation. With all the summer BBQ’s and travel plans it is easy to start packing on unwanted pounds. Contrary to all the “fad diets” out there, there is nothing you cannot have while getting leaner too. The key…you guessed it, moderation. Too much of anything will have you carrying around unwanted weight, even fruit! Keep alcohol to a minimum whenever possible, drinking too much will add a lot of empty calories to your bottom line. It is also very important to drink a lot of water! With the hot weather a lot of people get bloated and therefore do not drink water because they think it will add to it. While what is really happening is your body is dehydrated and therefore is holding onto water in case it does not get anymore. So drinking water will actually flush you out and will keep you and your stomach looking lean. ☺

5. Laugh often! Sounds easy enough but when was the last time you had a great belly laugh? You know…when your cheeks actually hurt from laughing or smiling so long. Laughing is a proven stress reducer and can lift your spirit in a second’s time. If you constantly find yourself around the same dull people, venture out and meet some new people that share your humor and interest. Nothing looks better on anyone than a smile!

Shine ON!

For more information on Keri and her products and services,go to www.kerimurphy.com

Four Key Steps To Achieving YOUR Success!

We all know there is no magic pill for success; it takes a lot of hard work. We all have unique gifts and passions that make us shine. I believe when we focus on those gifts and use them to help others as well as ourselves, everything in the universe applauds us. Here are the four key steps to get you well on your way.

1. You must DECIDE what is it that you want to achieve. It is absolutely crucial that you have a very clear understanding of what it is you want to accomplish. Saying “I want to make more money” is great but how and by when? How much more? An ambiguous goal is often one that loses steam quickly and therefore does not get achieved. Be as specific as possible.

2.You have to DEVELOP whatever skill sets are needed to achieve the decided upon goal. What is your star power? What uniqueness do you have that draws people to you or your product? This is SO important! You have to know and appreciate what makes you different. Be confident and kind. It is important to figure out who, what, when, where and how of bringing your goal to life. If 1% make it BIG what is it that makes that 1% shine?

If your goal was to “make more money” you need to ask yourself:

What do I need to do differently?

What other skills do I need to learn?

What is my plan of action?

How can I attract more wealth into my life?

What beliefs am I holding onto from the past, that are keeping me from my future?

Who can help me? Who do you know that is making more money?

In the book “The Outliers” Malcolm Gladwell discusses the 10,000 rule. This rule states that in order to reach the highest level of success in a certain field, you must commit about 10,000 to that goal. Are you up for it?

3. Get ready to DELIVER! Come up with a strategy to launch you and or your product. If you want to “make more money” in your business but you and/or your product to deliver that message it is unlikely to happen. What does your non-verbal say when you walk into a room? Your posture, clothing, and vocal tone speak loader than any words you could say so it is very important the message it clear. You are a success!!
Once you put up the sail the wind will take you but the boat won’t move until you do. ☺

3.Be DEDICATED! I cannot tell you how many times I talk to people who have a specific goal in their life and a few months later they are in the exact same place. Without LEVEL 5 commitment (Be and do whatever it takes) few will ever see all the success that is waiting for them. Success does not happen overnight and it takes a lot of drive and determination. Most people make it in “Hollywood” not because they are the most talented, but because they did not give up!

Acquire the mindset of a champion. If you fall, get back up. When you’re tired push yourself a little further…when the going gets tough, find joy that you are on your way!

Mindset of a Champion:

• Fierce dedication to your goals
• Driven beyond the norm
• Persistent and Resilient
• Dare to be different- take Risks!
• Be willing to learn from your mistakes and others
• Be Joyful!

The Four Key Steps to YOUR Success are Decide, Develop, Deliver and Dedicate. Good luck!

For more information on my coaching services go to www.coachingwithkeri.com

Monday, July 19, 2010

Don't just read it- LIVE IT!

In this day and age of social media, e-zines and enough self-help books to absorb the oil spill, it becomes incredibly easy to get tied up in reading about the life you want instead of LIVING IT. Of course, there is a great deal of knowledge to be gained by such experts and stories but at some point one has to TAKE ACTION!

If you don’t know where to start, that’s OK. The most difficult part in doing anything is usually just getting it off the ground. I have always found that once I put the intention out there that I am going to do or create “something”, I then start attracting the right people and things to make it happen. To this day this constantly amazes me! Trust me, there are still plenty of days I find myself spinning around the office with no clue as to what to do next or how I am going to get there. It is just as easy for me to get encapsulated in the reading and research. It is during those moments that I take time to re-focus and examine my plan.

A plan for me is simply a rough map of where I am going, what I want to accomplish and how I plan to do it. Like most maps, it does not include the major traffic jams, potholes and detours…but it does keep me focused on where I am going. Any destination without a map is a whole lot harder to get to. It is so important not to lose site of where it is you are heading. However, at some point you have to put down the map and drive. (I know enough metaphors) ☺

So put down the books, log-off your computer and start LIVING the life you want!

Thoughts+Action=RESULTS!

Shine ON!

Keri

Friday, July 16, 2010

A Princess I Shall Be....

When I was a little girl, around four years old, I remember laying next to my mom in her big king size bed talking about what I wanted to be when I grew up. I told her with such excitement that I wanted to be a princess! She paused and then looked at me with love and condolence, only the way a mother could, and responded, “Sweetie, the only way to become a princess is to marry a prince.” What!?! I said, I have to marry someone! I was seriously devastated, how could someone else control my dream? I remember crying in her arms as I took in the tragic realization that marrying a prince would be very difficult to do. Funny that I remember that day like it was yesterday.

In Portland we have one of the biggest Rose Festivals in the country. It is tradition that each high school within the city crown a “Rose Festival Princess” (now more politically called ambassadors) to represent the city in all the festival festivities, including the big Rose Festival Parade. I almost graduated from high school a year early but my mom convinced me to stay, telling me my senior year would be the best. (A little side note here, I actually loved high school (I know dork!) but all my friends were going to college in California and I wanted to go too.) That year I tried out to be on the Rose Festival Court and was crowned our schools “Princess.” It was such an honor because the student body were the ones who voted. I remember my mom coming up to me and she said, “I guess I was wrong, you didn’t have to marry a prince.” It was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had!

I guess the moral of the story is, sometimes what we wish for does not happen the way we imagined it would. It make take another form but it will still happen if you take a risk and put yourself out there.

I think of this story when I am going through a rough patch. It helps me remember that you can not always control the timing of things but you can and should believe! Each day I wake up knowing that I am here for a reason and each day is another opportunity to wear the crown of my destiny. What is yours?

Shine ON!!!

Keri

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Lesson Learned

A couple months ago, I was strolling through the vast Target aisles and came across their clearance section in the beauty department. For most women, I would say this is like hitting a small jackpot. I was very pleased to find a bag a 6 razors (the old school blue man kind) that were on sale for a little over $2.00. What a steal!! They kill us with the price of the "specially designed" razors for women. I mean, come on, how different can they be?

Thrilled with my smart purchase, I grab one as I head into my next shower. As I stepped out of the shower, I realized I had a few minor nicks on my shins and a few on the knee but hey, these razors where a great deal and I was pleased with my purchase.

The next shower comes and I use the razor again...this time the gashes from the razor are enough for me to throw it away. I complain to a friend about the new cuts on my legs and she asks me why I am using them. I told her about my steal of a deal and left it at that.

Next shower, I grab a new razor out of the pack and head in with complete resolve that I will NOT cut myself. Yep, you guessed it...except this time I had to wrap my leg up with gauze and tape so blood would not get on my beautiful white sheets. Man that hurt!!! I was tan in that area on my shin and now my skin is a whole new shade of white.

All this brings me back to one of my favorite quotes:

"If you want different results in your life, you must DO something different."

I have thrown away the remainder of the razors. :)

Shine ON!
Keri

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Self Beliefs

Self belief is a funny topic. It's the one thing that for most of us, determines where we end up and how we live life. Many of us believe we are only capable of so much success, happiness, and financial gain in our lives. It us because we think that way that that is exactly what shows up. Most people feel much more comfortable in the confines of their box of limiting beliefs. There is less risk if you only believe you are capable of certain things, right? If you don't try, then you can't fail. But I can't imagine that is how you would chose to live life if you knew there was another way.

There are certain factors that make up our belief systems:

* How we were raised: Did your parent(s) tell you you can DO anything and BE anything or were you told limiting beliefs such as; in order to be successful you MUST go to school and get a degree.

*Environment and Society- Where you were born and the social class of your community

*Self-perception and body image- I think, therefore I am. If you do not respect or love yourself how can you ever expect others to see something different?

*Current Relationships- You have heard, "You are what you surround yourself with" right? Are you surrounding yourself with positive people that support you and your dreams or negative ones?

There are certain factors we can not change however, we CAN change our limiting beliefs and we CAN make the choice to surround ourselves with people that support our goals.

Believe that you can with all your heart & soul and YOU WILL!!

Shine ON!

Keri

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Enjoy the Journey

No one ever said the road to success was an easy one. In fact, I think most successful people would agree that their road to success was full of pot holes, breakdowns and detours. If you are not 100% committed to where you are going it is very easy to venture off road or grow weary of the constant bumps. On the contrary, if you are excited about reaching your destination you can make the journey a fun road trip.

Do you remember the last time you planned an exciting get-a-away? The planning and packing...even the long road-trip or plane ride was part of the adventure knowing that soon you would be at your glorious destination. I love that feeling!

You can feel that everyday if you know where you are heading in your life.

Do you have any type of map for your life and the goals you have set or do you just go on cruise control everyday hoping for the wind to blow you in the right direction?

Which road are you on? Do you even know where you are going? How will you get there?

I know, lot's of questions...but in order to get where you want to be in your life it is important to look at the road you are on and determine if you are heading in the right direction. If not, change course and get excited!

Once you are on it...enjoy the journey! There will always be detours in life but as with most detours, you discover things you would have never seen otherwise and eventually you will reach your dream destination.

Shine ON!!

Friday, May 21, 2010

Why Not Today?



How often do you find yourself saying, Let me think about it or I dont have the time? If you are like most people, probably way too often. Before you know it, all of the goals and dreams you have set for yourself start to become distant memories and lost hopes. 

Well, I have a secret to share with youyour future is Now!

None of us know how many days we are blessed with and yet most of us are constantly waiting for the right time. The right time to fix a marriage or relationship, the right time to contact an old friend, the right time to take to take a trip or start a business.  If you continue to wait for things to be just right to begin living your dream life, it will never happen. Your dreams are created NOW! They start in your mind and in believing that you can. You create your future, no one else. It manifests in your daily life by what you think, how you think about it and what you focus on each day. If you constantly focus on what you are lacking then that is exactly what you will continue to bring into your life. 

How often do you stress about the lack of money in your life? Does that bring in more income? No, but if you start to think about all the ways in which you can increase your bottom line and are thankful for what you have you WILL see your finances improve. Why? Because you are thinking in abundance not despair.

It is not until you can imagine ALL that is possible that you will start to see that nothing is impossible. It will show up in your life. Your thoughts create your futurenot your past.

'BE THE DREAMS YOU WISH TO CREATE IN YOUR LIFE'. Be the person you dream of! What would your life look like if you were to begin to live your dreams today? Remember, timing with never be perfect, so there is no better day than today!

Shine ON!!

Thursday, April 22, 2010

How To Get Ahead

I had the amazing opportunity to watch my friend and coaching client, Kailin Endres, get crowned Miss Klamath County last weekend. She was one of eighteen hopefuls vying for the coveted title that would allow her to compete at Miss Oregon this summer and with that title, the opportunity to compete at Miss America.  As I watched anxiously from the crowd, actually right in front of the sound/video table which prohibited me from any side comments (painful!), I would eagerly wait for Kaitlin to take the stage. Every time she walked out she SHINED like a star! Granted, I may be a little biased but she had a confidence and grace about her that could not be overlooked. She stood out like a diamond in the rough. As I accepted the "great work" compliments from her family and friends after the crowning, my response was SHE did the work. She dedicated herself 110% to make it happen and I could not be more proud of her and her accomplishment. You can have people tell you what to do all day long but if you don't listen and apply the advice then it is simply hot air.

I posted a picture of the awesome crowning moment below...



I have seen this over and over again...those who are dedicated and put in the work will see the rewards. Those are the people who become the "Miss America's", movie stars, top executives, super-mom and the Trumps, Bill Gates and Oprah's of the world. You can not reach the top if you are not willing to start climbing!! Yes, it will be painful sometimes and there will be sacrifices a long the way, but everything comes with a price to pay. There is no miracle pill for weight loss, success, an amazing marriage or business.  When are we as a society going to figure that out? If you want something bad enough you will do WHATEVER IT TAKES!

 Getting ahead in a difficult profession requires avid faith in yourself. That is why some people with mediocre talent, but with great inner drive, go much further than people with vastly superior talent. 
– Sophia Loren

Have faith in yourself, have discipline, and have a plan of action...then look down from the mountain top in which you stand on and tell me how incredible THAT view is!

Shine ON!
Keri

Saturday, April 17, 2010

What if tomorrow NEVER comes?

I know, quite the depressing topic for someone who is always spouting out motivational quotes. 


However, it has come to my attention that SO many people make up excuses for why they are not living the life they want...the amazing life that is just waiting for them!


*I don't have the time
*I don't have the money
*My kids come before my happiness
*I will find God before I die
*We will start work on our marriage when the kids are gone
*I'll start MONDAY (oh, yeah...we have all said that one!)


We are not guaranteed anything in life except this day...this moment!! Why are you waiting? I know stepping out and taking a risk can be scary. But I think the scarier reality is that we will die wondering where our life went and why didn't we try. 


Wouldn't you rather look back (if we are so blessed to do so) and say...man, I gave it my all! I pursued my dreams, my talents, my God, my community and my relationships with all that I could. I loved and lived everyday!


Yes, tomorrow may never come...stop waiting...and start doing!  You will be SO glad you did.


Shine ON!!


Keri

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Living outside of the "Norm"

There is no tribe of normal

"People don't coalesce into active and committed tribes around the status quo.

The only vibrant tribes in our communities are the ones closer the edges, or those trying to make change. The center is large, but it's not connected.

If you're trying to build a tribe, a community or a movement, and you want it to be safe and beyond reproach at the same time, you will fail.

Heretical thoughts, delivered in a way that capture the attention of the minority--that's the path that works."



-Seth Godin


This is a excerpt from Seth Godin's blog and as I read it I practically jumped out of my chair with a YES!! 


I attended a training this weekend that literally changed my life. We talked about this exact thing... those of us that want to make a change in this world have to be willing to step out on the "skinny branches of life" and risk. The center of our world is large but very disconnected. What would happen if we all came together? If we all lived our lives outside the "status qou" in a way that actually united people instead of turning them against each other. What a world that would be! 


It starts with one...sign me up!


Shine ON!!!


Keri







Tuesday, April 6, 2010

How do you stay so positive?

I recently received an email from a friend of mine that asked;


"How do you stay so positive? Don't you have any bum days, doesn't life ever let you down? Sometimes I have no clue....." 


To answer my friend, ABSOLUTELY! I have had many bum days and yes, life can certainly disappoint.
I realize that is an inevitable part of life that without would make it easy to take all the good things for granted. I try to see every challenge and obstacle in life as a learning experience taking me one step closer to my ultimate goal. I am a firm believer that we all have a choice everyday to live life as a victim or to live victorious!  I also have faith in knowing that there is a purpose and intention for my life that I try my hardest to live out every day. If I keep getting the same results or if I am stuck-in-rut, I take a "time-out" to examine my habits and what I am doing (or not doing) that keeps me in the same place. Heck, I am even doing that today. LOL!


In many ways, I still don't have a clue, but I rejoice in the fact that everyday is a new day filled with opportunity. Life is what you make it so why not make it a happy one!


Shine ON!




Keri

Friday, March 19, 2010

Pollyanna

Who is Pollyanna? Well for those of you not old enough to know, she is a character based on a a best-selling 1913 novel by Eleanor H. Porter that is now considered a classic of children's literature, with the title character's name becoming a popular term for someone with the same outlook.


The title character is Pollyanna Whittier, a young orphan who goes to live in Beldingsville, Vermont, with her wealthy but stern Aunt Polly. Pollyanna's philosophy of life centers on what she calls "The Glad Game", an optimistic attitude she learned from her father. The game consists of finding something to be glad about in every situation.


Now that we have that straight, I get accused of having a "Pollyanna" type attitude where every thing is wonderful all the time. Where in reality, my life is not perfect or even close, as none of ours are or can be. However, I choose everyday to believe in my purpose and why I am on this earth. Why would anyone choose anything but? Yes, there are rough days for sure but there are many more wonderful ones. If everyone gave up...no one would succeed. I believe we all have a divine purpose in this life! 

My girlfriend, after many months of complaining about her job, finally put some intention in front of her discontent and decided to change her circumstances. Within a month she found an amazing job and is now living in San Fransisco with a new outlook on life! That is what living is all about!!!


I would much rather be seen as a "Pollyanna" than a mean spirited person who only sees the bad in the world. I am not ignorant to the evil in the world, yet I choose to focus on the positive...the good in people...and what I can do to leave a small but everlasting footprint on this place called earth.


From the book "The Greatest Salesman on Earth" I leave you with this:


I will love the light for it shows me the way; yet I will love the darkness for it shows me the stars. I will welcome happiness for it enlarges my heart; yet I will endure sadness for it opens my soul. I will acknowledge rewards for they are my due; yet I will welcome obstacles for they are my challenge.


I will greet this day with love in my heart.


Shine ON!!

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Stop trying to be...

I got inspired by Judy Garland's quote:

Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. -Judy Garland





Stop Trying to Be

Stop trying to be “skinny”
Don’t work to be rich
For all of those things can be gone in a pinch.

Appreciate your beauty and all that is within
For to do anything less is surely a sin

No body’s perfect
Nobody at all….
So love being you…or be nothing at all.

-Keri Murphy

Monday, March 8, 2010

The power of INTENTION

Have you ever thought to yourself...no I can't...I shouldn't...but what if? 



What if you stopped making excuses in your life? Does that thought scare you? Does your life potential make you squirm because of what you would have to risk if you really pursued it?


Remember one word.. INTENTION. Take 30 minutes a day and read "The Power of Intention" by Wayne Dyer, a truly inspiring read! On my short flight back from Reno yesterday I was reminded of these words...


"Think what you would like to have is already present in your life"


"What you think about expands your life"



"I am eternal. I will be passionate about all I do"


Such profound and exciting words. I quite often feel that I am living my life with intention yet there are days I lose site of what that is.


We have all heard of "The Secret" and as much as I believe we become what we think, there is an action and intention that needs to be put in place in order for it to manifest what we desire into reality.

What would you love to do in your life? What are you missing? Why are you living in mediocre? What does it take to change that?


Love others...appreciate all the beauty in the world...believe that all you love and desire is possible...because it is!!

Shine ON!!

Keri

Sunday, February 21, 2010

What makes you so special?

I had an amazing week of networking and meeting really great people. One of those meetings with with a wonderful woman who has been speaking for many years. When discussing my message and what I really want to impart to people she asked me a really tough question. She asked, "What makes you special, why would someone hire you when there are hundreds of others with your message?" I sat there like a big brick just hit me upside the head. That is an excellent question and one I had not asked myself. Not in a conceited way by any means but in a way that makes you look deep within your self to find the answer.

What makes you so special? Why are you unique? Why you and not someone else?

If you can't answer this for yourself than how can anyone else see it, believe it and promote it? 

You have to have that answer if for no one else but yourself. I encourage you to dig deep, to realize what unique traits make you...YOU!  Then let the world know and watch your destiny unfold. It won't be easy but realizing your unique traits and attributes will allow others to see the same and what a great gift that is.

Shine ON!

Keri

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Oh...Where is the time?

One worthwhile task carried to a successful conclusion is worth half-a-hundred half-finished tasks. – Malcolm S. Forbes 

 That is the quote I chose for today and boy did I need to hear it! My last blog post talked about procrastination, which I think is something we all struggle with. However, what I find I struggle with more is completion of the "half-a-hundred half-finished tasks". 

Where is the time? My "to-do" list, like most of you, seems forever long without enough time in the day. But the fact is whether you are an Olympic gold medalist, a stay at home mom, or a budding entrepreneur, we ALL have the same amount of time in the day.  We all have 8 hours a day, 168 hours in a week...and roughly 672 hours a month. How do you use your precious time? Do you waste hours of it in front of the TV or on social media sites? It is how you spend your time that determines what you accomplish, not the goals you set. When is the last time you took a good hard look at how your time is spent? What if you took 1 hour of each day and devoted it to something you are passionate about? Think how that could change your life...ONE hour a day! You could get fit, write a book,  take up a musical instrument, learn a language, the list is endless!

In the book "Stop Praying" it states: If you read just 30 minutes a day, in less than one year, you could read over 30 books a year! Think of all you could learn...astonishing!

 It is important to budget your time wisely, make a list of priorities, and put together a support team to keep you accountable.

You can accomplish all of you goals and dreams...you just have to find (and budget) the time.

Shine ON!

 



Keri


Monday, February 1, 2010

Seth Godin's blog

I am a subscriber to Seth's blog and quite often he hits the nail right on the head. I realize social media is huge break through when it comes to networking. However, it can also be a time thief that robs you of the many other important things you should be doing. I often can come up from my computer coma realizing hours have gone by. What do you think? How do you feel about all this social media?
 

Modern procrastination
The lizard brain adores a deadline that slips, an item that doesn't ship and most of all, busywork.
These represent safety, because if you don't challenge the status quo, you can't be made fun of, can't fail, can't be laughed at. And so the resistance looks for ways to appear busy while not actually doing anything.
I'd like to posit that for idea workers, misusing Twitter, Facebook and various forms of digital networking are the ultimate expression of procrastination. You can be busy, very busy, forever. The more you do, the longer the queue gets. The bigger your circle, the more connections are available.
Laziness in a white collar job has nothing to do with avoiding hard physical labor. “Who wants to help me move this box!” Instead, it has to do with avoiding difficult (and apparently risky) intellectual labor.
"Honey, how was your day?"
"Oh, I was busy, incredibly busy."
"I get that you were busy. But did you do anything important?"
Busy does not equal important. Measured doesn't mean mattered.
When the resistance pushes you to do the quick reaction, the instant message, the 'ping-are-you-still-there', perhaps it pays to push in precisely the opposite direction. Perhaps it's time for the blank sheet of paper, the cancellation of a long-time money loser, the difficult conversation, the creative breakthrough...
Or you could check your email.







Monday, January 25, 2010

The message!!

I am gearing up on figuring out my speaking topics and how I want to deliver them. At times I feel a bit overwhelmed by all I want to share...what will and can I say that will make a profound difference in the lives of others? I have no doubt I have a powerful message to share with the world and crafting just the right one can seem a bit daunting. I know it will change and I just need to jump in with both feet. I am reading an awesome book that reminds me of this:

"There is deep wisdom in being willing to experience our greatest anguish as a barometer of our greatest gift"

Reading and typing that brings me to tears...too many people bury themselves in the anquish instead of allowing it to open up their most amazing gift!

THAT is my message!!!

Do not let your light fade...be a beacon, share your experiences...Shine ON!

Love,
Keri







Monday, January 18, 2010

The Importance of Commitment

A friend of mine sent me this and I had to post it! There is a big difference between "wanting" and "doing". You must put your desires into action...hope and thoughts will NOT get you to where you want to be. I think it is important to set goals but I feel it is equally important to share them.  Make sure you have people in your life that will keep you accountable. I know we all can struggle with this...so let's make the commitment to be committed.



Dream big...ACT bigger! Shine ON!!!

Keri


To Achieve be Committed

Achievement through commitment is what I choose to discuss today. The difference between a good intention and producing a result is your level of commitment. You can want and desire all you want but unless you commit yourself full-heartedly you may never accomplish your goals or even begin to actively pursue them at all.

What does it take to commit yourself?

I am not sure I know the answer to that one. What the difference is for me is just knowing that nothing can stop me from doing whatever it is that I commit myself to. It is the promise I make to myself that whatever I set out to do is a done deal. I let nothing stand in my way. I choose to make it a priority. Commitment is a tough thing to explain, sort of like love you just know what it is when you are committed or when you are not. It is a feeling that you get inside of you, that let's you know if you are truly committed and your level of commitment. It can be a choice you make as well, led by your desire to have, do or achieve something. Once you have the desire, make the commitment, you get into action powerfully and it is a done deal.

Your action challenge is to commit yourself to your goals and desires, commit yourself to your life fully. Follow the messages from inside that lets you know it is something important to you. Do not half way live your life jump in with both feet. Let the feeling of desire spark your choice to commit, then get into action and make it happen. Quotes to inspire you.

“It was character that got us out of bed, commitment that moved us into action, and  discipline that enabled us to follow through.”

 “Desire is the key to motivation, but it's determination and commitment to an unrelenting  pursuit of your goal - a commitment to excellence - that will enable you to attain the  success you seek.”

 “Commitment unlocks the doors of imagination, allows vision, and gives us the "right  stuff" to turn our dreams into reality.”

 “There's a difference between interest and commitment. When you're interested in doing  something, you do it only when circumstance permit. When you're committed to  something, you accept no excuses, only results.”

 “Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach.”

Affirmation or Mantra
I achieve whatever I fully commit myself to. I choose my commitments by checking in with my feelings and desires. Nothing stands in my way of making it happen.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Playing the piano...

I talk about the piano quite a bit and often get asked about. Therefore I decided to upload a little video on my Youtube channel. I am blessed that I learned to play by ear at a young age listening to my older sister do the same. She is SO talented! I come from a very musical family. My grandmother was a professional singer, my uncle an incredible piano player and singer, my mom sings, my older sister as I mentioned plays and my little sister sings beautifully. Man, we should have formed a band!

Anyway, I hope you enjoy it...it is a side of me that not many people see.

Keri on piano

Shine ON!

Keri

Sunday, January 10, 2010

MTV Made

Did you happen to catch my episode of MTV Made "Geek to Chic"? They re-aired it (really early in the morning) today, in case you missed it you can check it out at:

Mtv Made- Geek to Chic, Made Coach-Keri Murphy 

OR you can watch it below...enjoy!  I would love to hear your thoughts!

Shine ON!!

Hugs,

Keri


Monday, January 4, 2010

My advice to you...

Be mindful of how many times you say "hope", "wish", "someday" for those are just fluffy words that create little or no action. Say words like "will", "I am" and "today" for those cause action to be taken and create power within.


 

Have an AWEsome New Year!

I had to repost this article...I so believe it to be true! Please take the time to read, life should be AWEsome!!!

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*** Article: Could Life Be AWEsome? - By Carole Hodges ***
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Stop for a moment. Dream back to the time when you were limitless. Maybe you were 4 or 5 or even 7 -- before you learned the word "impossible." You could be invisible, or fly, or walk through walls. Feel that tingle of your unlimited possibility.

Could you accept that this incredible power is your REAL truth? Simply and innocently accept that reality for a moment now. Feel the wonder of your authentic wildness. Could it be that what you're feeling is your connection to universal source?

That's your Authentic Wildness Expressed (AWE). It's your creativity and magic. It's calling to you.

AWE creates the super hero and the beautiful princess. The exotic dance and the daring adventure.

AWE is fearless, curious, and spontaneous. Remember picking up a bee by its wings, or climbing the roof to see the view or running through sprinklers on a hot day?
Then we grow up. Become mature. So we know better than to believe in our unboundedness. And we leave AWE behind. We live in the certainty that reality is serious. We measure our time in rational buckets.

Fantasy is not held in high regard in the world of growing up. We leave it behind to fill a role as mother, father, boss, manager or neighbor. We tell ourselves it is time to mow the lawn instead of rolling in the grass. We leave the adventure for our children or grandchildren. As we watch them, something is calling to us still. Their untamed energy touches our hearts. And, if we're lucky, it opens us to outrageous possibilities.

Look carefully, and you'll find it is still there for you, fueling fascination with Olympic athletes, or other acts of daring and excellence. AWE fuels bravery and deep compassion.

If we're truly wise, we never give up that longing. You could wear a red hat. Travel to Africa. Start a new business. Or take up singing. How dare you be outrageous? Actually, how outrageous do you dare to be?

Consider the oldest person we know of: Jeanne Calment. She lived to 122. She began fencing lessons at age 85. She continued to ride a bike until she was over 100.
Following our hearts in AWE can add more time to our life or put more life in our time.

If you think that AWE is self indulgent -- think again. AWE is not about YOU. AWE is what was given to you by the divine source. It's part of your divine contract. It's the power you were sent here to deliver. Recognizing it and honoring it restores your personal connection with the Divine. In short, AWE is not only your gift to the world, but puts you in deep touch with your profoundest truth.

If you, like many others, have left your sense of wonder behind, take heart. It is never too late to reconnect with your AWE. If you are willing to defy expectation, then 40, 60 or 80 can be a perfect time to discover your divine purpose and truth.

AWE is the connection to youth, curiosity and adventure. It's your Outrageous Choice to tap into this boundless source energy and live from your deepest heart.


What a powerful article! Shine ON!

Much love,
Keri