Self Motivation is a Bitch!

I mentioned to someone recently (not really sure who it was) that I was on a deadline for story like yesterday and they instantly said, "What sign are you?" I responded, “I’m a Sagittarius.” They just gave me a look and I said, “Yeah, I know, we’re procrastinators by nature. I know.” Hanging on to the last word of my comment, I felt as if I was accepting being lazy (on the verge of giving up). But if I give up, there would be no point of this blog, THE GRIND and I’d definitely go into hibernation, a true dark place, and just be…But who wants to settle for going through life clueless, lifeless, helpless, and unhappy?

I’ve always wondered, after someone reaches a certain level in their career and is known amongst their industry, what it took for them to get to that place. I’m sure that they had to start some where and prove to themselves that they could make their dreams come true. But, it takes hard work, it takes dedication, it takes thinking smart, and it takes momentum. Honestly, sometimes your thinking can get blurred and you go through humps in your plan that can lead to a detour in the road (the plan). So, how do you get back on track? How do you stay motivated? How do you avoid throwing your hands up and saying, “I give up”?

I think that you got to really look inside yourself and ask yourself and/or tell yourself, “Is this what I really want?” Can I go on? Do I have what it takes to make it?

If the answer is “Yes”, than you stick to your plan
-You may have to modify your plan (if that’s what it takes)
-Write down your goals and plan of action
-Work on completing those goals/list, daily (even if its small task)
-Network
-Utilize your resources
-Promote Yourself, business, idea, product (whatever your dream may be)
-Get a mentor (if possible)
-Always do research and educate yourself (stay aware of fresh news happening in your industry or in the profession that you want to break into)
-Find new ways or ideas that will keep you motivated
-If you have business partners, define each other’s weakness and strengths (preferably in the beginning) so that you are aware of who can execute certain duties directly
-Accept constructive criticism (take it with a grain of salt, especially if it’s an experienced veteran in the industry that you want to go into)
-Never, Never, Never, give up on yourself (you can definitely tweak your plan but if its really want you want to do, than go for it!)

“If you don’t believe in yourself, who will?”

Always,

Miss Joi

Bloglovin'

I usually don't like to toot my own horn, but "TOOT, TOOT!" ideeli.com tapped me for their blog on my personal style advice and giveaway pick of the week. I was honored and it's totally hilarious since I don't feel like a style expert at all. I'm still crafting my own, unique style on a daily basis. Trust me, it's work! I mean, I adore bags and most of all, SHOES like the next woman. But when you're grindin' and and struggling to live within your financial means, sometimes, your style may get lost due to less closet updates in your wardrobe...ahm, barely buying new clothing and accessory items.

Well, I don't want to babel, so I'll let you enjoy this glimpse into my "ideel" style picks.

Happy Reading! I have to get back to The GRIND as always.

XOXO,

Miss Joi

Lost In Translation: The Grind Needs a New Swagger

Hey There!

I've realized in my old age that I've always been a woman who never really wants to ask anyone for help. I'm not sure if it's good old fashioned pride, shame, guilt, or just feeling like a freeloading friend; but asking someone for help is like pulling teeth when it comes to me.

Sitting in an office on one of the few sunny, 80 degree days that have come our way this spring, I had a mini epiphany. I'm here struggling to redesign my blog and think of fresh story ideas when I can just say one simple word to family, friends, readers, etc; HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Grind (yes, I typed it) has lost its touch. its swagger. its mojo. The look is dry, the content is dry, the entire thing just bores me now. That's sad because I created the damn thing. With all of these other bloggers (ahm, dare I say it...my competition) covering fashion, entertainment, lifestyle and just plain 'ol down and dirty gossip; I had a thought. What keeps readers coming back for more? What keeps them following? The topics? The design? The writer? The images? Is it the continuity of posts monthly, weekly, daily, sometimes twice a day or more? Is it a combination of the latter mixed with a little bit of luck?

Well, people, I look at several blogs daily and I've hit a brick wall as to how The Grind can evolve into something magnificent. Hell, I'm working on soaring from Good to Great (circa Friday, June 5th) so my blog should defiantly be on the same page.

This is my sincere way of extending an olive branch. Help me help myself. In the back, far back of my mind, I've considered shutting down The Grind. But that wouldn't be the best decision since I'm grinding daily like everyone else, especially to remove myself from the 'Rat Race'. I ask you...

• What design features would you like to see on The Grind (widgets, gadgets, anything you can share?) We're talking about layout and design people.
• What content would you like to read about on The Grind. Keep in mind that these are events that happen in my life, so I need to keep it in the theme. Am I open enough? Or do I need to open up more to keep you interested? Let's keep it clean please. I'd prefer not to write about where and when the last time that I used my vibrator (he, he). No one wants to read about that stuff...and yes, I have a vibrator, don't you?
• What topics of my life should I touch on? Anything that you want to know that you don't know about me?
• Do I need to post more frequently? or less frequently?
• How can I get the blog out there to gain more readers?
• I'm open to any suggestions

As always, your feed back is greatly appreciated! Please leave your ideas in the "comment" section below, you can email me at jwheat2@gmail.com, or you can even Tweet your ideas to me, just remember to put @missjoi before your reply (140 character, please).

Thanks in advance and I look forward to reading your ideas.

XOXO,

Miss Joi