Empowered Mindset Series: The Power of Women Who Lift Others Up

True leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about impact. The most inspiring women don’t just lead; they elevate those around them. They make space at the table, amplify voices, and empower others to rise alongside them.

In this special edition of the Empowered Mindset Series, I’m reflecting on the incredible women—mentors, colleagues, and my own mother—who have shaped my journey and taught me what leadership truly means. From leading with authenticity to building confidence and embracing the power of the collective, these lessons are a testament to the strength of women who lift others up.

Read on, and let’s celebrate the women who inspire us every day. 💡✨

The words we choose shape our mindset, influence our actions, and define our growth. In this installment of the Empowered Mindset Series, we explore Words to Live By—a collection of powerful quotes that inspire positivity, confidence, resilience, and gratitude. Whether you're looking to embrace a growth mindset, break free from comparison, or build self-belief, these words will serve as a guide to empowering your journey—one quote at a time.

Ready to turn your dreams into reality? In this Empowered Mindset Series post, we break down the four essential phases—Dream, Hope, Believe, and Achieve—and how each step helps you move closer to your goals. Whether you're striving for personal growth or a professional milestone, discover how belief fuels action and achievement is about more than just the finish line—it’s about who you become along the way.

We’ve all been there: feeling stuck and unsure of how to move forward. The good news? You don’t need grand gestures to break free.

In this article, I share 5 simple strategies to overcome challenges, shift your mindset, and take small steps toward progress.

Holiday Traditions - Baking Memories, Not Just Cookies: Where powdered sugar becomes a fashion statement, and cookie-decorating turns into a family comedy show. 🍪 Ready to make this holiday season memorable? See how traditions evolve, connect us, and create stories worth savoring.

OPD is Real. If you’ve ever agonized over a misplaced ornament or felt the chaos of the holiday hustle creeping in, this one’s for you.

Find out how to stay sane this season—without sacrificing the sparkle.

Looking for a book that takes you back in time? Check out these must-read historical fiction picks from the Lounge Chair Librarian—perfect for your next read or a gift!

Check out my latest post: La Dolce Vita: Part III-Bringing Italy’s “Best Life” Vibe Back Home

After an amazing trip to Italy, I’ve been reflecting on how to bring that La Dolce Vita lifestyle back home. It’s about more than just great food and stunning views—it’s about slowing down, savoring life’s little moments, and finding balance every day. I’m sharing 5 ways to extend those vacation vibes long after you’re back in the daily grind.

#LaDolceVita #WorkLifeBalance #Mindfulness #LivingWell #ItalyVibes #SelfCare

Our trip to Italy was full of ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and jaw-dropping architecture—but, let’s be honest, one of the real stars was the food...especially for my boys. From multi-course meals to endless gelato, my sons took “eating their way through Italy” to a whole new level.

Read all about our culinary adventure and misadventures in La Dolce Vita: Part II – Eating Our Way Through Italy.

In a world of constant connection, our bucket list family trip to Italy was the perfect chance to unplug. From laughter-filled meals with no Wi-Fi to the magic of my trusty Mommy Bag, we found the joy of being present with each other.

Join me as I reflect on the sweet moments of family, food, and ditching the screens.

The Lounge Chair Librarian, a teacher and mother, enjoys psychological thrillers for their captivating twists and turns. Check out her top 10 picks that are certain to take readers on a thrilling and unforgettable journey.

Feeling stressed? 🎨🎶📝 When creativity flows, stress goes! Dive into creative hobbies like painting, singing, or writing to melt away tension and find joy. Discover more ideas this latest article.

Have you ever tried to change your behavior or activities to achieve a goal but were unable to stick to anything? Focusing on small or micro habits may help increase long-term adaptation and success. Read on to find out how.

Feeling overwhelmed by stress? Discover the surprising power of letting go and how it can transform your life. Dive into my latest article for insightful strategies to manage stress and boost your overall well-being.

Work-life integration has become a buzzword in today’s fast-paced world, offering the promise of flexibility and balance. But without intentional boundaries, it can sometimes lead to work blurring into personal time more than we realize. In this article, we explore how to make work-life integration truly work for you—by setting healthy boundaries, embracing flexibility in a sustainable way, and protecting personal time without sacrificing professional success.

Have you ever unexpectedly encountered family or friends in places so unlikely that even the best-laid plans couldn't have orchestrated it? Sometimes fate steps in to make the world seem like a much smaller place. Read on for a tale of serendipity, gratitude, and the surprising ways our lives intertwine.

Feeling burned out? It might be time for a reboot. Studies show that taking time off isn’t just good for you—it’s essential for productivity, creativity, and mental health. So why do so many people leave vacation days unused? Let’s bust the biggest myths about taking time off and explore how unplugging can actually boost your success. Time off isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

What if the secret to building better habits was right in front of you? Visual cues—like a book on your nightstand or a water bottle on your desk—can be powerful triggers for positive change. Learn how simple visual reminders can reinforce behaviors, boost motivation, and make habit formation effortless. Ready to make small changes with big impact?

Feeling overwhelmed? It might be time for a little “me time.” Stress isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a warning sign. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for your well-being. Discover 10 simple (and fun!) ways to recharge, reset, and make self-care a priority. Your future self will thank you.  

Mental health matters—every day, not just in May. Suicide remains a growing crisis, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Raising awareness, breaking the stigma, and knowing how to help can make a real difference.

In this article, we explore the realities of mental health challenges, the importance of early intervention, and practical ways to support someone in crisis. With updated statistics and essential resources, this guide is here to remind you: you are not alone, and help is always available.