Weekend 4Cast: Mentors, Social Boom!, Harry Potter, and Sun Dresses

Happy Thursday Everyone. The weekend is almost here and I am actually heading on an airplane right now to Hawaii and am unbelievably excited. 

* Weekend 4Cast *

Compilation of all of the things I'm dying to share with you. 

-  Random - 

I have found the best way to learn about anything is to learn from someone who has been there and done that. I have learned almost everything through the guidance and generosity of professionals who have shared with me their time, their wisdom, and their life story. Do you have mentors in your life? 


It is easier than you think.  Just start asking people you admire for their story and their advice. You'll be amazed at who will talk with you if you simply ask. The best place to start is StudentMentor.org. This was started by two passionate young people dedicated to you and the power of mentorship. Registering is so quick and the rewards  - incredible. 


- Movies - 
I am more excited/nostalgic than I thought I'd be for Harry Potter. 

SUCCESS magazine recently featured David Heyman, the Harry Potter films' producer, and he mentions that the young actors were able to stay relatively grounded because they did the filming in a small town in England. Isn't interesting how environment affects things...especially the Hollywood environment?

- Fashion -

Speaking of environment, I am so beyond ecstatic to be able to wear nothing but sun dresses, flip flops, and hats for the next two weeks. I tried on a new dress I got for the trip complete with hat and big necklace and thought yes, this is me. 


I often miss the freedom I had in college to wear my favorite clothes (enjoy it while it lasts :). And if you're in a working culture where your favorite style isn't appropriate for work, plan as many activities on the weekends and vacations when you can break out your favorite pieces. There is something freeing about it. 


- Books -
Are you making the most of your social media presence?As I'm sure you've realized by now, social media is so much more then telling your friends what you had to eat that day.  It affects so many aspects of our lives - especially your future career. Social media can help you find a job, land a job, make connections, build a positive image, and even make money. You have to know how to market yourself to get a job after college. And you don't want to be caught marketing yourself in a way that seems self-obsessed. 

Social Boom! by Jeffery Gitomer taught me so much about Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube and I have already connected with incredible people I would have never met if I hadn't read this book. No matter how technological things get, business and getting jobs will always be about people. In Social Boom! Gitomer explains how to use technology to make sure you stand out and connect with people who will help you reach your goals. A++++

My Weekend 4cast ep.1

Hi guys! So I know today is Thursday, but I am rolling out a new section of the blog  - my weekend 4cast. 

I love to (constantly) read, analyze pop culture, and consider new ideas that don’t always need an entire blog post to unpack; so my weekend forecast will give you the scoop on books I recommend, random thoughts I’m having about current events, movies, fashion, and any other quick ideas/questions that will give you something new to ponder.

I also hope this will be a place for you to share your comments and recommendations.

 And when it comes down to it, I am having so much fun with this once a week is no longer enough =) Enjoy and thanks as always for reading/watching!

- Books -  

So many students talk to me about motivation, or rather, the lack thereof. The funny thing is, these students want to be motivated, but it’s just not happening and they don’t know why. I just finished (and loved) Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink.

What U need 2 know if U don’t have time 2 read Drive:

We aren’t as extrinsically motivated as we think. People are more motivated when the rewards come internally – from a sense of purpose and autonomy.

Questions 2 ask yourself from Drive:

 Are your goals really your goals? Getting a good grade or a degree to add to your resume is not what drives those who are truly motivated in college. How can college be a part of the bigger goal/dream you have for your life?

- Movies - 

Has anyone seen Larry Crowne yet? I’m curious to see how they depict community colleges. Please comment below on what you thought if you’ve seen it.

- Random -

There is something about getting a monthly magazine in the mail that  makes me feel like its Christmas. It is a monthly reminder that can re-fuel and re-focuse you.

Whether it relates to your career, college, or a special interest – it is a monthly reminder to not forget about something you love or something you want to do.

Magazines are cheaper than you think  - keep publishing alive =)

- Fashion -

 Fashion can actually help you connect with people. There’s a reason why they call some things “statement pieces"-- because they often invite people to talk to you. I wore this turquoise ring today and had some great conversations that started with “I love that ring where did you get it?”

Also, one time at a conference where I didn’t know anyone I wore the pendant from Pirates of the Caribbean. I also have the Harry Potter time turner necklace.

And it spins! (below are my bloopers/many tries to get the time turner to spin. Or perhaps it is just you going back in time...you be the judge). 

 Have a great weekend and I’ll see you on Monday!