Written by: Denise Belisle , Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. As we welcome the arrival of spring, we often find ourselves diving into the annual ritual of spring cleaning our homes and detoxifying our bodies. But what about our minds? Our thoughts and emotions can become cluttered, just like our living spaces, and it's essential to take the time to declutter our minds. In this article, we explore a simple 3-step system to help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by eliminating unwanted thoughts and patterns. Plus, we offer a resource to assist you in this process so you can enjoy the benefits of a clear and organized mind. As the sun begins to shine and spring arrives, we can't help but notice the smudges on the windows, the dirt on the patio, or the dust on the furniture. We grab our cleaning supplies and begin the annual ritual of spring cleaning. Some of us also turn our attention to our summer clothes and realize they feel tight after the winter. At the point, we may start a 3-week detox program to eliminate toxins and excess weight. But why do we find so much satisfaction in having a clean house or detoxifying our bodies? We all like structure, and our brain is no exception. Our thoughts, patterns, and behaviors can clutter our brains, just like the dirt on the patio or the toxins in our bodies. Yet, we often overlook the importance of cleaning our brains. It can be tempting to surrender to our emotions, but it's essential to carve out space to declutter our minds. Here is a simple 3-step system that can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by eliminating unwanted thoughts and patterns. Step 1: Write down what bothers you Imagine your brain as a cluttered garage filled with everything you have accumulated over the years. To clean it, you take everything out and put it on the lawn. Write down everything that comes to your mind that bothers you. Create awareness of the thoughts, patterns, and behaviors that hold you back. You might even want to write down a few people's names who contribute to your stress. Step 2: Create a list of things to add to your life Just like organizing your garage, you need to add shelves, hooks, bins, and other organizational tools to store your belongings neatly arranged. Similarly, list all the people or things you would like to add to your life. What are your goals and dreams? What would your ideal life look like? Write everything down. Step 3: Bring in the things you like and be grateful Like in the garage example, you start to bring back the things you like and be grateful for them. However, you also decide not to bring back some things into your life, such as old arguments, resentment, bitterness, or sadness. Break down your goals into small action steps will move you toward where you want to be. Remember to stay positive during the whole process. No single solution exists for removing stressors and toxic thoughts from your life. The first step is to begin a quest to find all contributing factors that cause stress. These factors might have been with you for several years without your knowledge. Be gentle with yourself, take one step at a time, and enjoy the process of decluttering your mind. I have written a pocketbook named "Spring Cleaning for Your Brain" that can assist you in this process. Follow this link to download it today. The best way to get a hold of me is simply through my email . Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Twitter , and Youtube, or visit my website for more info! Read more from Denise! Denise Belisle, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Denise Belisle is the founder of Denise Belisle In-Motion Coaching. She is a serenity expert and positive intelligence specialist. She is an international speaker, online TV show host, functional medicine health coach, and Reiki master. Over the last 40 years, Denise has been immersed in all areas of health and wellness. She has been practicing mindfulness and meditation since she was a teenager and has developed great skills in the discipline of emotional and mental fitness. She works with professionals in their 50s and up who feel like they are on the hamster wheel of the new normal, empowering them to bring back the SPARK ✨ so they can rock the second half of their lives and shift from crisis to oasis.

Written by: Dr. Mykim Tran, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. If you can become successful in one thing in life, it is to discover your passion and life purpose. It will be one of the greatest gifts you will ever experience, so do not give up. Applying your passion and life purpose will help you reach your full potential. An individual journey Discovering your passion and life purpose is an individual journey. No one will understand what your passion is except for you. It is unique and meaningful to you. The things you do for your passion can be viewed as odd by others. For example, you will notice the little details of your passion that others neglect and won’t understand. You understand the importance of the little details to make the world a better place. Others are unlikely to understand your decisions to grow your passion. Even if you try to explain it to others, most likely, they will not have a complete understanding of it. Therefore, others cannot give you great advice to help you discover and grow your passion. Also, hearing others’ opinions can distract you and clutter your judgment to make your own decisions toward your passion to succeed. You must trust and believe in yourself to make great decisions to discover and grow your passion. When it comes to your passion, you already know what you need to do to become successful. It just depends on if you believe in yourself or not. The only support you should seek is encouragement from others to be on your own journey to discover your passion and life purpose. Learn about human potential Learn as much as possible about human potential because you are human. The more you understand about human potential, the more you understand about yourself to help you discover your passion and life purpose. Learning about human potential enables you to understand the importance of applying your passion because it will promote happiness, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. It will guide you to make the right decisions. You will also better understand life and how to use your passion to create a connection and belong in the world, which is one aspect of human potential. Belonging is one of the components in the hierarchy of needs. Feeling belong gives you the sense that you matter because you contribute positive things to the world. It will constantly increase your motivation to learn and grow your passion and life purpose. A lifelong journey Discovering your passion and life purpose is a lifelong journey because you will never truly know your core passion and life purpose. If you truly know then you are perfect, but you are not. There will always be something that you can learn to increase your self-understanding to grow your passion and life purpose. Your passion and life purpose have no destination. You will learn and develop as a human being, and your passion and life purpose should also evolve along with you. If you change and grow in any way, your passion should change. Your passion is a representation of who you are. You will discover new skills to strengthen your passion and life purpose as you learn and grow. Click here to see an example of how your passion and life purpose can change and involved as you learn and grow. Adjusting your passion and life purpose will depend on your level of learning and development. Sometimes it will be a slight adjustment, other times, they will be big. Therefore, you must be on a continuous journey of personal growth to learn and develop yourself, your passion, and your life purpose. Click here to learn more about personal growth. It is important to understand that you do not need a great understanding of your passion to start applying to develop your desired lifestyle. Apply what you currently know about your passion in your life now. As you learn new things, you can use them to grow your passion, life purpose, and lifestyle. Never put your passion on hold. Take immediate action, trial, and error Discovering your passion is about trial and error because you do not know your passion the moment you are born. It is not about hoping it will manifest without you trying to learn and apply. It is about testing your ideas to see which is your passion. When you have a great idea that could develop your passion, you must take immediate action and test it out. The more you procrastinate, the lower your chance of taking action. And then, you could regret it later. You have to understand that not all your great ideas will become successful, but successful ideas come from your intuition. The more you act on your intuition, the sooner and better the chance of discovering your passion. You just need one great idea and it will unleash your passion and turn your life around. The more you learn and apply to grow your passion, the faster your life purpose will reveal. Your passion is what you do. Your life purpose is how your passion fulfills a need in the world. You understand why you are gifted with your passion. You see a clear path to serve others and improve the world. Do the right things You must do the right things no matter how hard it is to discover your passion and life purpose. It requires you to make tough decisions that could be fearful sometimes. For instance, if you know that following your passion is right, but no one supports you, you must believe in yourself and decide to move forward. Even though unknown outcomes or failures might manifest, you must have the courage to move forward and not allow the challenges to stop you from discovering your passion, life purpose, and reaching your full potential. Doing the right things allows your passion and life purpose to manifest and develop. It is not an easy thing, but it will be worth it. An important thing to understand is that no matter what kind of challenge you encounter, you can overcome it. That is one great thing about being a human being. When you learn about human potential, you will discover you have enough knowledge and skill to overcome and achieve anything. Sometimes you might believe you cannot overcome a challenge when it hasn’t manifested yet, but when it manifests, you will know what you need to do to overcome it. If you lack certain knowledge and skill, you will know what you need to learn to become successful. Furthermore, unexpected resources and support will manifest to support you in ways that you never imagined to help you fulfill your passion and life purpose. Be strong alone You must be strong alone to work on discovering your passion and life purpose. Others are unlikely to support you when they do not understand your passion and life purpose. Sometimes you might feel lonely when no one is supporting you. Therefore, you must learn to support yourself. Another reason why personal growth is vital is to help you build a strong relationship with yourself to support yourself. You must develop your confidence and courage to a point where you believe in yourself and that you can overcome and achieve anything to discover your passion and life purpose. You will face many challenges and need to overcome them on your own. If you rely on others when they do not support you, then you won’t become successful. As a result, the challenges will paralyze you from moving forward. You must also develop the habit of believing that every time you have a new idea, you automatically believe in yourself to take immediate action. Click here to learn ways to be strong alone. Be around supportive environments A supportive environment is essential to discover and grow your passion and life purpose. It can be difficult to stay focused when you are bombarded with negative influences daily from the media, society, and negative people. You must have something to counteract the negativity, otherwise, it will overpower and prevent you from succeeding. Especially in the beginning when your passion and life purpose are weak, you need as much inspiration as possible from a supportive environment to keep your motivation up to keep moving forward. Remember, discovering your passion is a trial-and-error process, and you might not succeed at the beginning or take you longer than you initially thought. So, you might feel discouraged to keep on moving forward. Therefore, being around positive people motivates, inspires, and empowers you to keep moving forward. There are many ways you can get the support you need. You can attend in-person or online seminars and training. Join in-person or online support groups. Watch videos, listen to podcasts, and read books about people you admire and want to learn from. You can also get a mentor or coach to guide and motivate you. There are countless ways to get support. They will instill the belief in you that if they can do it, so can you. Live a simple life You must learn to develop and live a simple life, living under your means. Remember, you might have to try out many things before you succeed. If you are lucky, you might discover your passion in one or two tries. As you go through the trial-and-error process, you might not get the financial return you need to support yourself. However, if you live a luxury lifestyle with many expenses, then it can be difficult for you to take the risk to try new things because you might not get the financial return to keep up with your luxury lifestyle. As a result, you might never discover your passion because you are not free to try new things. Living a simple life means having as few material possessions as possible. The fewer possessions you have, the less expense you have. It will also reduce your worry so you can focus more on discovering your passion and life purpose. For example, when you have many things, you are more likely to fear losing them. The stronger the fear, the more stress and worry you will develop. In contrast, you would worry less when you have fewer things, which means you are more emotionally free to try new things to discover your passion. You should also avoid having many subscriptions or anything unnecessary for your survival needs. If you can eliminate anything from your life to reduce your expense cost, it is crucial to do so. Living a simple life will teach you that happiness, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment do not come from a luxury lifestyle. Once you are comfortable living a simple life, you will discover that a luxury lifestyle does not increase your happiness as much as you thought. A luxury lifestyle might increase your pleasure and gratification for the moment, but it does not promote or increase the emotions that matter – happiness, meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. Once you have enough money to take care of your survivor needs and treat yourself to occasional gratification, anything more than that will not promote the positive emotions that matter, experiencing your full potential. Follow me on Facebook, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. Mykim! Dr. Mykim Tran, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Dr. Mykim Tran is an expert in humanistic psychology. She is a keynote speaker, educator, life coach, author, and scientist. She is on a mission to help individuals create a powerful legacy that will carry on for eternity. In the process, individuals will transform into the best version of themselves and reach their full potential. Dr. Tran is the founder and CEO of Wake-Up Foundation, a non-profit agency, transforming individuals into social change agents to promote stronger communities. She received her bachelor's degree in Media Communications from the California State University of Sacramento, her master's degree in Psychology at Walden University, and her PhD in Humanistic Psychology at Saybrook University

Shannan has been a helping professional since obtaining her Master’s Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy in 1992. She’s helped teens and adults in a variety of settings: middle schools, private practices, clinical therapist & manager of full- and partial-day treatment centers, and most recently as an assistant director of a group private practice. Currently, she’s passionate about providing a more collaborative, connected experience through transformational coaching and content creation in order to support more people in their healing. She was a stay-at-home mom for 18 years, self-published author, and presenter at parenting/homeschooling conferences and church organizations during these years, only formally creating SBMFT Services, LLC in 2022 at 55 years old. She recently developed her premium coaching program “The Kairos r3 Transformation Method,” to reach and empower more women on their healing journey. You can learn more about Shannan’s professional background by visiting her website. While her trauma training in Basic EMDR, DBT training, along with specializations in anxiety treatment, digital wellness, and eating disorders offers a strong skill set, it’s the intersection of her personal life and professional expertise that really fuels her impact. Shannan Blum, SBMFTServices, PLLC What’s important for us to know about your own healing journey? Well, for one thing, I no longer apologize for my experiences and how they’ve made me who I am today. I transparently share my pain, hope and strength as I continue my own healing journey. I was born in the ‘60s and lived in the Haight/Ashbury District of San Francisco. When I was about 10, my parents moved to a suburb in the East Bay then divorced and remarried shortly after that. Childhood trauma and the chaos of a dysfunctional family system created a sense of loneliness and anxiety within me, although I was a bright and highly sensitive child. As an adolescent, I was highly insecure and desperately tried to fit in. I demonstrated both people-pleasing and defiant behaviors as I tried to find my center. So intense was this drive, that I chased security & stability by converting to a conservative, high-control religion when I was 17 years old. While this appeared to provide the belonging and safety I desperately desired, it created long-lasting fractures in my relationships with my parents and step-parents. Decades later, as I was still raising my four incredible kids, I came to understand I experienced religious trauma and was living life in a high-control cult, not ‘just a religion.’ My healing and deconstruction process occurred in my mid-40s as I found the strength to prioritize my mental well-being over the approval of others. Other than being a parent, I consider my two most transformative experiences to be leaving my unhealthy, 22-year marriage and then deconstructing & healing my way into more wholeness with my second husband. I re-claimed myself along the way, accepted my whole-self, and built a life I truly love. As a therapist, we’re taught to hold our experiences “very close to the vest unless you’re sure it will benefit the client.” This is a high-control type of instruction, as how can one be ‘sure it will benefit the client?’ This is what I mean by not apologizing for sharing any longer; my life experience is relatable, and that empowers transformative experiences for others to “heal into wholeness.” I find great joy as I support my clients in elevating themselves into belonging rather than ‘fitting in.’ What kind of audience are you looking to help, and how? I empower adult women on their self-acceptance journey, ‘finding themselves again,’ after being overshadowed by many roles they’ve fulfilled. Even after engaging in traditional therapy, many women express wanting more connected maintenance support as they integrate skills. Obviously, standard therapy fills an essential role in clinically addressing impairments. I believe the deep transformative work comes from synthesizing skills into a healing lifestyle. I provide premium coaching using my 6-step signature program, “The Kairos r3 Transformation Method: Reclaim, Rediscover, & Rebuild.” I developed this from my own trauma resolution, skills training, recovery support, and professional expertise. The Kairos Method provides clarity in values and purpose, mental wellness content, embodied skills for self-connection, relationship-building skills, and a holistic community of support. All of this is offered to help clients not only avoid relapse, but move from ‘doing skills’ to ‘healing habits.’ My programs are grounded in both group and 1:1 coaching, Q&As, compassionate accountability support, progress tracking, access to all my resources, and community engagement. My 6-step signature program promotes sustainable healing to connect all ‘parts’ into one cohesive whole ‒ what I call ‘whole-self acceptance,’ All of these practices support reclaiming, rediscovering and rebuilding – essential pillars of wholeness and wholehearted living. What is something different about you as a helping professional? I would say being a generational cycle-breaker and cult-survivor has empowered me to see signs of high-control organizations that most others will miss or minimize. High-control organizations leverage individuals to ‘outsource’ their worth, inherent value, and decision-making to support the organization. I was in the exploitive systems, both personally and professionally, and survived as I healed my way out. Many providers are unaware of the systemic mechanisms of high-control groups, and because they are systemic, many unknowingly reinforce compliance with them. I’m able to help individuals learn & notice the signs for themselves, observe impacts, and make effective choices for personal recovery. I’ve heard the phrase, “my mess is my message of hope.” Well, here’s my journey’s messy message: a) nearly two decades of chaotic dysfunctional living and family substance abuse, b) to 37 years of “stable,” conservative, religious cult living, and c) reconstructing a wholehearted life after deconstructing cult beliefs and practices. While my profession gave me a ‘trauma-healing-from-the-outside view,’ my personal wholeness healing gave me a “trauma-healing-from-the-inside view.” While I can’t say I was a fan as each new insight brought new layers of pain and old wounding, I was ready to move out of suffering and heal into wholehearted living. I now get how “disorders” aren’t maladaptive, but very adaptive skills in the truest sense. As a result of my own “burn it down to build them up” process, I can speak truth to power when I see it. Dedicated focus and willingness to shift into sustainable, thriving skills is something I’ve experienced and coin “healing habits into wholeness.” I am a sharp observer of patterns in interactions, both effective and ineffective, and have a felt-sense of how to alleviate relational suffering. Because I’ve been there, I bring my full, authentic self into connection with my clients as they seek internal, relational, and holistic repair. What are your current goals for your business? I’m in the early stages right now, working on increasing my visibility, growing the business, and helping more women heal. I believe individual healing fosters collective healing, especially as women, sisters, mothers, and daughters. I’m dedicated to promoting embodied self-connection, self-trust, and more whole-self acceptance. This coaching program is truly where my heart lies: to stand for my clients’ transformation, to inspire and elevate them to overcome obstacles and bridge to what they fiercely desire. Within the next few years, I plan expanding and offering weekend intensives/retreats, single VIP days, and hopefully producing a podcast as well. What inspires you? Since I’m a generational cycle-breaker, I am profoundly aware of the lonely path it takes. I find inspiration in empowering those who walk the cycle-breaking path. It’s inspiring to witness how powerfully they invest in themselves, heal their inner wounds, and experience whole-self transformation. They embody authenticity and stepping into their power versus guardedness and living small. I love seeing how this influences family relationships, friendships, and personal and professional choices. Holding space for my own story and healing journey is how I say, “You’re not alone, I see you, there is hope for us!” I feel inspired when these cycle-breakers integrate their traumas, embody self-trust, intuition, loving-kindness, mindfulness, and self-compassion. Because they are connected to themselves in an authentic manner, they are also capable of being powerful and generous, holding healthy boundaries, being playful, creative, and encouraging. My younger sister is one such person and consistently inspires me. Facts Name & Age: Shannan Blum, 56 y.o Family: Husband, 4 children, 5 step-children and 8 grandchildren Top Fave Hobbies: pool or beach time, horses, watercolor, digital photo books Top Fave Experiences: watching my adult children and partners hang out & laugh, just about any convo with my sister and husband! Dislikes: I don’t enjoy cooking much, really dislike breaches of trust Fun Fact: I have never taken a chemistry class (back then, I didn’t believe I was smart enough for it and found ways to sub other classes)! If you want to support developing healing habits and could use premium, transformational coaching to feel more yourself and cultivate whole-self acceptance, please visit my resources page here, my website, book a consultation or follow me on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram. Read more from Shannan!

Written by: Aisha Saintiche, Senior Level Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Isn’t it amazing how you can go through life with one mindset, with a way of seeing and experiencing the world, and then someone drops a statement on you, and you find yourself re-evaluating everything! Welp…once again I have found myself in a state of reflection, self-awareness and growth. So, tell me how many times you’ve said the following sentences to yourself. “How am I back here again!” “Why can’t I just learn my lesson” “Uuugghhh I can’t keep doing this” “Clearly this is the way things are going to be” I don’t know about you…but lord knows I have found myself lecturing myself about the ridiculousness of finding myself in a position or predicament that seemed like a repetitive behavior, that in my opinion, resulted in the same outcome…or was it? Let me backtrack a bit. A little over a year ago I was given an amazing opportunity to lead a session with an incredible group of people who were members of a group called 100 Strong and Sexy. If you don’t know about 100SAS, it’s a health, wellness and lifestyle organization in Toronto that empowers its members to commit to their wellness journey and make deeper cultural connections in mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness (talk about alignment right). Not only was the opportunity to work with this group a game changer in affirming what my purpose was…BUT I was privileged enough to work with the founder who is none other than Miss Jully Black. Yup you heard me…. Miss Jully Black…a woman who embodies purpose, power and lives life authentically, unapologetically and cute AF. I digress…because I could talk about her all day. So, in the planning for this session we connected, joked, shared our collective vision for curating and creating spaces for women to self-discover, self-actualize and self-love. As we wrapped up our call, feeling energized about what we were planning, she dropped a line that hit me like a ton of bricks (also has the potential to be my next tattoo…. But don’t tell my husband because he would FLIP…lol). She said, “Aisha it’s important that women are reminded that they aren’t starting from scratch, they are starting from experience.” Let me just write that again (and yes, I know it’s the title of this article) … YOU AREN’T STARTING FROM SCRATCH, YOU ARE STARTING FROM EXPERIENCE! Tell me you don’t feel the power in those words! For all the time we spend beating ourselves up about going around and around in a circle, not learning “our lesson” making the same mistakes, did we ever stop to think that in fact the changed response, the different perspective, the calmness in our ability to process, our rational reaction was a result of the lesson learnt. That we weren’t making the same mistake but approaching an issue with a different lens…one that employed an elevated understanding, greater patience or grace or a completely different take. I would love to say that I was not a repeat offender when it came to certain issues, but when Jully dropped that gem, I had to pause and really reflect on the growth I had experienced and the challenges I did approach with a changed perspective and understanding. You see, there is no way I could be coming up on the tender age of 44 (birthday is August 26th – please note it in your calendars…lol), be where I am at this point and time in my personal and professional life and not have been operating from a place of experience. I’m not a baby, but I want you to think about this. When kids are small and are beginning to experience their environment, how many times will they find themselves engaged in activities and actions that seem to result in the same outcome. Whether it’s climbing up the stairs, touching something hot…we think that their insistence on doing the same thing is a result of their stubbornness or unwillingness to learn a lesson (in the West Indian household we love the “dem who nah listen mus feel” type of approach) – but is it? You see, while from the outside it feels like the lesson is not being learnt, if you watch closely, you will note the processing they go through. Looking at the object to determine if there is a different angle. Contemplating if the outcome will be different than the last time. Even looking for an alternate scapegoat to test the waters first! Whatever is happening in their little minds, what you come to learn is that a lesson has been learnt and that they are merely exploring other options and opportunities from the same action. Sidenote: The statement above is by no means scientifically proven, but observatory in nature. Nor is it applicable to all children cause some kids are just hardheaded! I would never blanket statement and say we don’t repeat the same nonsense nor find ourselves in the same situation – I’m a nineties kid – I repeated a number of bad hair and clothing choices over and over again! What I am saying however, is rather than expelling energy on lamenting on what we did wrong or how we are in the same cycle, think about what looks different, where you have grown, how your perspective has changed, where have you employed more patience. If in fact, we were stuck in the same habit resulting in the same outcome could you even be in a position to reflect on those past situations? I am a firm believer that life will throw very similar situations your way because our path has somewhat already been scripted, but the real game is employing a changed, elevated and experiential perspective that offers deeper insight resulting in a changed outcome. Sure, you may have found yourself buying yet another palazzo pant hoping that the outcome would be better than the last pair you bought. And while you can confirm that they remain a bad fashion choice for you, at least this time around you waited til they were on sale! “No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man” ‒ Heraclitus Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Aisha! Aisha Saintiche, Senior Level Executive Contributor Brainz Magazin Aisha Saintiche is a certified Health Coach and the founder and owner of MetoMoi Health. With over fifteen years of experience in Mental Health, Accessibility and Diversity and Inclusion, Aisha has used her experience as a strategic advisor and health coach to understand the complexity and intersectionality of the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual barriers that keep people from achieving their optimized health and wellness. Aisha also holds a Masters in Public Policy Administration and Law, as well as a certification in Change Management, Advanced Crisis Intervention and Counselling and Health Coaching. She is also an Integral Master for the Canadian Olympic Committee of Canada, and most recently she became a Published Author. Always seeking opportunities to bring about change, she is also an active member and Board of Director for the Woman Abuse Council of Toronto (WomanACT) and the Board Chair for Afiwi Groove School. https://linktr.ee/Metomoi

Written by: Sachin Parmar Are you looking to take your business into a new frontier? Shake up your existing brand with this easy-to-follow guidance on modernising with clever design tricks. Sachin Parmar, Co-founder and Creative Director from Graphic Kitchen, London’s leading digital marketing and branding agency for hospitality, talks you through ways to refresh and enhance your brand. Sometimes it’s easier to remain with your existing brand when it’s worked well for so many years – there’s comfort in the familiar. However, modernising through a rebrand could be the barrier stopping your business from progressing. Graphic Kitchen recently worked with The Regency Club, an upmarket family-owned bar and grill based in Edgware, London to revitalise their existing brand with surprising results. The Regency Club had been serving its regular customer base a fusion menu of Indian spices and Kenyan cooking techniques since 1991. When Rahul inherited the restaurant from his father, he saw an opportunity to shake up the business, make it his own and increase its reach beyond the local community. Although the restaurant’s heritage remained important to Rahul, by modernising the brand he hoped to compete with the newer establishments that were appearing in the locality and stealing custom. Here are some simple steps that Graphic Kitchen adopted when modernising The Regency Club’s brand, which can be easily replicated with your own establishment. Complete a comprehensive brand overhaul There’s no point just tweaking your website or updating your menu; if you’re looking to effectively improve your brand, you need to complete a comprehensive brand overhaul. This means reviewing all of your assets, including external and internal literature, your desktop and mobile websites and even the interior of your restaurant, office or shop. With Graphic Kitchen’s support, The Regency Club looked at all of their assets as a whole to ensure that every area was touched by the rebrand. Be selective with colours When carrying out a rebrand, one of the biggest decisions you will make is choosing which colours will represent your brand. It sounds straightforward, but colour plays a critical role in the story that is being told about your business. Colours are evocative and will dictate how your customers feel when they see your marketing, click on your website or visit your establishment. As well as selecting the right colours, you also need to make sure that the colours you opt for complement each other and work well together. Don’t choose every colour in the rainbow, be selective, bold and confident in your choice. For The Regency Club, Graphic Kitchen used a palette of rich, dark-toned greens, blues and greys, which gave the nod to the tradition of the restaurant, but also set the tone for a luxurious, chic and high-class eating experience. Use professional photography An essential step to modernising through a rebrand is to hire a professional photographer to take imagery to use in your marketing collateral and website. As part of Graphic Kitchen’s package of support, we provided a brand and lifestyle shoot to photograph The Regency Club’s team, restaurant and food. As well as the images all being of superior quality and matching in style, the photographer was able to stage the shots so that they also included The Regency Club’s chosen colour palette. Consistency in your rebrand will help the aesthetic of your business resonate a contemporary and sophisticated feel. Take your rebrand even further Don’t settle for ordinary in your brand design, as it’s the unusual and quirky that will make your business stand out and remain in customers’ minds. The Regency Club took its rebrand one step further by asking Graphic Kitchen to design labels for their sauce and spice selection, so that even the condiments on guests’ tables embodied the brand. For the final touch, Graphic Kitchen used its in-house design team to create wall graphics that matched the style of the brand. To break the mould, be daring and memorable. When The Regency Club reopened its doors with its fresh new look, it experienced a 20% increase in sales. A prime example of appreciating your current audience, understanding your prospective clients and using thoughtful design to take your business where you want it go. If you’d like to find out more about Sachin and Graphic Kitchen, please visit: https://www.graphickitchen.co.uk/. You can also follow Sachin on LinkedIn, where he frequently posts business advice and inspiring content. About the author: Sachin Parmar is Co-founder and Creative Director of digital marketing and branding agency, Graphic Kitchen. As hospitality specialists, Graphic Kitchen offer comprehensive, innovative solutions for branding, website, social strategy and menu design. Graphic Kitchen is powered by evokeu, a boutique digital marketing and branding agency that works with big and small brands across a variety of sectors. With decades of design experience, Sachin has a keen eye for detail and a drive to create consistently superior results. Alongside his expert team, Graphic Kitchen and evokeu help clients capture customer attention and create growth.

Written by: Anthony Galizia In a move to revolutionize brand development for the construction and trades industries, The GW Branding Group announces the launch of its Foundational Brand Program and Brand Builder Package. The digital marketing program and package is designed to help businesses establish a strong and effective brand identity, reach their target audience, and grow their businesses online presence. Co-founders Anthony Galizia and Donny Wells give their background in their brand video. Red Cloud General Contracting, a leading residential general contractor in the Chicagoland area, has partnered with The GW Branding Group to leverage its expertise and implement GW Branding Group’s marketing program. Micah Morgan, CEO of Red Cloud Contracting gives his opinion on the GW Branding Group in his case study in an interview with GW’s media team. "We're thrilled to partner with The GW Branding Group to take our marketing and branding to the next level." Says Micah Morgan, CEO of Red Cloud Contracting. "Their unique approach to brand development is a game-changer for the construction and trades industries." Foundational Brand Program The Foundational Brand Program is the GW Branding Group’s VIP digital marketing strategy day where Anthony & Donny come together with their client to develop a digital marketing strategy that can be implemented immediately after receiving the Foundational Brand Strategy Book. The Strategy book is custom to each business and is their ultimate digital marketing guide to move forward with the execution of the strategy through the Brand Builder Package. This strategy development day is focused on defining audiences, developing customer journeys and creating a holistic digital marketing strategy. Included in the Foundational Brand program are: strategy development for website development SEO, email automation PPC advertising Social media Branding Content development Data analytics. Brand Builder Package The Brand Builder package allows the GW branding Group’s partners to move forward immediately with the strategy. By offering custom levels of branding and marketing management, the GW Branding group is able to build the brand's foundation and solidify their position in the marketplace. From rebranding and re-creating the website to a full scale marketing take over the GW Branding group is ready to develop and build brands nationwide. The Key To Long-Term Brand Success "The Foundational Brand Program and Brand Builder Package provide businesses with a strong and clear brand identity that resonates with their target audience, and allows us to build their brand online in record time cutting through all the red tape and pointless short lived client strategy meetings only leave the clients more confused or stressed.”Says Anthony Galizia, Co-Founder of The GW Branding Group. "We're excited to partner with Red Cloud General Contracting and help them achieve their marketing and branding goals. So far it has been a pleasure working with Red Cloud contracting. We can tell that Micah Morgan, CEO, is hyper focused on growth this year and we are so excited to be working side by side with the team to develop their brand online.” Says Donny Wells, Co-Founder of the GW Branding Group. Outsourcing Your Digital Marketing As marketing and branding continue to be key differentiators in the construction and trades industries, The GW Branding Group's new program and packages offer a unique solution that is specifically tailored to these industries. That certainly does not mean that the GW Branding Group is limited to one industry. Anthony & Donny have experience working with a multitude of industries and infrastructures including E-Commerce, Medical / Healthcare, Logistics, & more. When it comes to outsourcing your marketing, ask to see case studies and find out what the agency or consultancy does for their onboarding process. This can make a huge difference in the relationship with your agency. "The Foundational Brand Program and Brand Builder Packages are an innovative approach to help businesses establish a strong and effective brand," says Jane Smith, a leading marketing expert. "This new marketing program and partnership with Red Cloud General Contracting is a great example of how businesses can leverage marketing and branding to achieve their goals." Says Ashley Lagos, Marketing Expert. To learn more about the Foundational Brand Program, Brand Builder Packages, and how GW Branding Group can help your business stand out in a crowded marketplace, visit our website or email us here. We're excited to work with Red Cloud Contracting and other businesses in the construction and trades industries to build strong, recognizable brands that will set them apart from their competitors. Have you considered scaling your business for growth? Don't wait to get started – contact us today to learn how we can help your business succeed! Follow me on LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! About the author: Anthony is a digital marketing specialist and a marketing expert, certified in SEO , email marketing, inbound sales, and Google Digital Marketing. As an agency owner, Anthony is dedicated to helping businesses and professionals grow their brand through website design and search engine optimization. Since co-founding the GW Branding Group, he is focused on high performance marketing with their new brand and marketing program called the Foundational Brand Program. When it comes to marketing, Anthony takes a holistic approach while executing quickly to being your brand up to speed in the digital age.

At the young age of 30, Karim Usmani has already made a significant impact in the world of luxury ground transportation. As one of the youngest entrepreneurs in the industry, he has cultivated an impressive clientele that includes high net worth individuals, renowned athletes, and A-list celebrities. Karim's dedication to unparalleled service and innovation has not only earned him recognition from his illustrious clients but also prestigious awards that celebrate his remarkable achievements. Born with an innate entrepreneurial spirit, Karim ventured into the ground transportation sector at 21, quickly recognizing the untapped potential in the luxury market. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, he set out to redefine the standards of service and create an unforgettable experience for his discerning clientele. Karim's success can be attributed to his keen understanding of his clients' unique needs and preferences. He has meticulously curated an extraordinary fleet of vehicles, each selected for its elegance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. This attention to detail, coupled with his expert team of professional chauffeurs, has positioned Karim's company as a leader in the luxury transportation arena. Karim Usmani's meteoric rise in the luxury ground transportation industry serves as a testament to his passion, determination, and entrepreneurial prowess. As he continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, there is no doubt that Karim will remain a trailblazer, leaving an indelible mark on the world of luxury travel. Karim Usmani, Managing Director As a young entrepreneur in the ground transportation industry, what inspired you to start your own company, and what challenges did you face in getting it off the ground? From a young age, my fascination with business was ignited by my father, who owned a successful construction company. I often found myself captivated by his strategic conversations, sparking my curiosity and passion for entrepreneurship. This inclination manifested itself during my secondary school years when I began selling CDs featuring music that was not easily accessible to my peers. The ground transportation industry presents significant challenges, especially when competing against established organizations with over 25 years of experience. To excel in this field, it is crucial to enlist highly skilled chauffeurs capable of delivering exceptional hospitality through a top-notch chauffeur-driven service. How has the market changed pre and post-COVID with regards to demand and client expectations? The market has changed dramatically post-COVID. As we are still in this hybrid system of office working, with some businesses’ having not returned to their office at all. We have seen an uptake in ground transportation as whole. I think this is largely due to an increase in individuals with more disposable income than before COVID. Your company specialises in providing ground transportation solutions to high-profile clients such as Athletes, celebrities and executives. What do you think sets your services apart from your competitors, and how do you ensure that your clients receive the best possible experience? Smart City Prestige sets itself apart from competitors primarily through our specialized vehicle selection. We boast a diverse range of vehicles, while many competitors offer more conventional options. This distinction enables us to cater to niche markets and operate as a boutique business rather than focusing solely on volume. Another significant difference lies in our approach to ground transportation. We believe in treating it as a hospitality service. Our chauffeurs, who spend considerable time with clients in an intimate setting, are trained to provide service on par with the 5-star hotels our clients frequent. To further enhance our bespoke offerings, we conduct thorough research on our clients, ensuring we understand their unique needs and preferences. Drawing on our chauffeurs' observations, we continuously refine our service, tailoring it to each individual's requirements for an unparalleled experience. One of the unique aspects of your business is the emphasis on building strong relationships with your clients. How do you approach building these relationships, and what advice do you have for other entrepreneurs looking to do the same? As a naturally generous and passionate individual, I always strive to be authentic in my interactions with clients. I take a sincere interest in understanding their values, beliefs, and aspirations, seeking ways to support them on their journey. Feedback is vital to me, as I believe in delivering the best possible service and upholding the principle of "getting what you paid for." To foster genuine relationships with my clients, I often arrange informal meetings over coffee, lunch, or dinner, focusing on socializing rather than discussing business. To other young entrepreneurs, I would advise embracing honesty and integrity in all endeavours. Treat criticism as an opportunity for growth, actively network, and always strive to be the best version of yourself. The transport industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and changing consumer preferences. How do you stay ahead of these trends, and what steps do you to take to ensure that your company remains competitive? We consistently monitor technology-driven companies like Uber, which have revolutionized ground transportation. By identifying aspects of Uber's platform that we believe could be improved, we refine our own offerings. We also keep tabs on leading competitors globally, observing their services and determining whether we can adapt and implement their successful strategies within our own business. Our commitment to staying competitive involves learning from the successes of other businesses, enhancing their effective approaches, and incorporating them into our operations for continued growth and improvement. How would you think the market you are in would evolve in the next 10 years and what are the trends you expect to see at the luxury end of the ground transportation industry I anticipate significant transformations in the industry, with most companies likely operating an all-electric fleet by 2030. Advancements in AI could eventually replace numerous ground transportation staff, including dispatchers and other support personnel. While it may not happen within the specified timeframe, I believe that AI has the potential to ultimately replace chauffeurs as well. Follow me on LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Karim!

Written by: Barbara Powell Love, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. I have always had a great deal of respect for timeliness. When I was in High school, I took a business class. One of the keys was Time Management. I worked in the mayor’s office when I got my first summer job. Timeliness was essential to the everyday functions of the office. After graduating from high school, I attended the local university, where I pursued a major in business. It was important to be seated when the professor walked to the podium. When I started working in an office in accounts payable, I had to be at work by 7:45 because our doors opened at 8 am. Getting to work at 8 am, I would be late. As a young stay-at-home mom, I kept a date book detailing my days. I had a laundry day, grocery shopping day, cleaning day, floor cleaning, and waxing day…you get the picture. I was such a stickler for Time Management that My Mom would call some days to ask me if she could get on my schedule. One of my pet peeves is scheduling an appointment, a date with friends or family, or an event at a particular time, then waiting for the JITS (just in-timers) and the IHNCOTs (I have no concept of time) people. I found a quote in my Franklin Planner by Charles Darwin, who once wrote, "A man who dares to waste one hour of life has not discovered the value of life" (Darwin, 1999). As a college student, I had a project management class. We were divided into groups, and my group chose to delve into Time Management. No matter where we looked, we found that someone had produced yet another book on how to live a more time-managed life. We realized that time is a unique commodity, and that life is too short to waste precious time. In learning Time Management techniques in class, we found that it increased our productivity at home, school, and work. Ultimately, we found it easier to plan time for relaxation and vacations. To manage time wisely, we had to develop some organization. In organizing our lives, we succeeded at successful Time Management. If you have never tried Time Management, you can start small. 'Eat that elephant one bite at a time.' You will be so glad that you did. Life can be demanding when we try to juggle the increasing demands of work, then rush home to take care of our homes, spouses, and children, manage finances, participate in church and school activities, and hopefully, some self-care. Efficient Time Management allows us to accomplish more in less time, creating a balance between home and work. I won't add myself to the list of writing another book on Time Management; however, I have some suggestions on the subject gathered from my personal experience and other reliable sources. Back then, we learned that effective Time Management is simply discipline. You can't see it, feel it or taste it. It is precious but not something you can save because, as I mentioned before, it is a unique commodity. Some people are time wasters, worrying about what they need to do instead of just doing them. Some may be sleeping 10-12 hours and even more per day when 6- 8 hours would be sufficient. Procrastinators delay tasks that could be accomplished until the chores pile up and they become overwhelmed. Then there are those that waste time watching nonsensical TV shows instead of getting up and cleaning their homes or getting some laundry done, then complain that there is never enough time to clean the house or do laundry. The solution is simple…Time Management. By managing your time wisely, productivity can increase at home, work, and school. Look at where you are today, then envision where you want to be in your daily productivity. Ultimately, there should also be time for relaxation, self-care, and vacations. Time Management starts with organization. If there is a place for everything, and everything is in its place, time is saved because there is no need to look for anything. Some spend countless hours looking for things buried under that pile on their desk. It's difficult to save time when lives can be so disorganized. With efficient work and study habits, we can achieve much more and accomplish so much more in less time and with greater accuracy. However, utilizing practical Time Management skills can save those valuable minutes whether you're a student, a stay-at-home mom or dad, or a full-time professional. When daily tasks are on schedule, your mind is clearer, and you are mentally prepared to complete the tasks on your desk. You are more ready for those last-minute surprises that may sneak up on you that you must meet before lunchtime. By taking control of your busy schedule and knowing what you can or can't finish, you can dedicate some of those tasks to others and still meet the required deadlines. Another benefit of Time Management is increased productivity. It creates a feeling of accomplishment and boosts morale. In addition, there is time to have more quality time with your spouse, which is the foundation of a strong relationship. Furthermore, the icing on that cake is having time to complete those projects that have been put on the back burner that you've been meaning to start. Because our lives are so busy, we even miss the opportunity to socialize with friends because we always need more time. Managing our time allows us to spend time with special friends. We all are given 24 hours each day to accomplish more than we do. We can find the time to do things we have yet to find time for before. Re-evaluating how we spend our time, where that time goes, and learning to use it wisely can open many doors of organized opportunities. The only dilemma is how, and where we start. Set goals. What do you want to accomplish, and when. Write them down, and check them off. Find a Time Management tool. Use a date book or planner, manually or electronically, so that you can record and plan everything from business to pleasure, keeping it all in one place. Years ago, I used the Franklin Planner. However, I prefer an electronic mode these days, so I currently use Evernote, along with my google calendar, on my phone and laptop, but I have used Asana in the past. They are both free apps. I'm not recommending either because you'll need to find the tool that works for you. Organize your home, starting with the pantry, closets, and drawers, then from room to room. Organize your office, starting with your desk and file cabinets, then continue with the rest. Delegate some chores to your spouse and your children. This allows you to devote time to tasks only you can handle. Please don't worry about trying to accomplish it all at once. Start small. Eat that elephant one bite at a time. Once you become disciplined enough to organize your space in life, you will enjoy the benefits of having less stress through something so simple… Time Management. Follow me on Facebook, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Barbara! Barbara Powell Love, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Barbara Powell Love is currently the Office Manager for a small medical practice. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree concentrating in Business Development. Barbara is also the owner of Beebe Love's Beauty @www.beebelove.com, a blogging website to promote beauty, motivate, inform, provide mental stimulation, educate, inspire and encourage other women over 50 to embrace their inner beauty and pursue their dreams. Her blog focuses on personal development, leadership, and lifestyle. She encourages women to become Seasoned Beauties instead of becoming Senior Citizens.

Written by: Elena Manole, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. One of the ways I work with clients is going through their accounts, one transaction at the time, and questioning each of them. In a world of online payments, tap and go, and all sorts of subscriptions, it is easy to let pass a 10$ here and there without even realising. Given the cost of living and the high inflation that we are experiencing globally, we want to maximise the use of our money. And you would be surprised how, by doing this exercise, you will realise there are ways you could save your dollar and make money work for you. Also, you will learn to balance your spending between various areas of your life. We love giving gifts, buying groceries and having an easy takeaway. But what about a date with yourself? Or maybe a manicure? Some flowers, anyone? Or a movie night. Here are 7 simple and easy steps to increase your chances of saving your money and paying off any debt you might have. The result? Grow and build your wealth like nobody else! 1. Go through your accounts at least once per month and question each payment There is a high probability that you will not know what some transactions are. And if you are in a joint partnership that might be even trickier. In this case, involve your partner. Let them help you in finding financial clarity. Identify those transactions that you don’t recognise and/or you don’t need anymore. 2. Take some time in cancelling/getting better offers Shop around. Chances are, you will find better offers for your electricity, your phone provider and others. If you have a lot of services for your TV, pay attention to what you use the most and cancel everything else. Yes, be brutal about this. Most likely you don’t need that much entertainment. A trip to the library will sort you for one night per week. 3. Start building an emergency fund Like Dave Ramsey says, “Murphy’s around the corner”. Yes, it all can go well, but, just in case, do yourself a favour and start putting money aside for rainy days. To begin with, $1000 will suffice. And if you cleared down all the items on number 4, go ahead and save at least 3 to 6 months of (essential) expenses. 4. Write down a list of all your debts Yes, commercial debts that are “interest free” are also included. It’s important to give back what we owe. There is nothing that creates more abundance in our lives than to be in a position where you can say: I don’t owe anything to anyone.” Those monthly payments? They are there to stay for years. And, in case you can’t work for a period of time or you want to save for something that is precious to you, these monthly fixed costs will just make your life more difficult. 5. Create a spending plan Once you have a few months of figures (step 1), you’ll start seeing a pattern in your spending. In that case, you will be able to re-assess the way you use your money. Start by looking at the averages across the three months. How much do you spend on groceries? On transportation? Clothing? Take the amount you receive per month (salary or dividends, etc) and find what is the 60% of it. Your lifestyle should cost you that. Everything else should go into saving accounts, giving back and putting money aside for your pension. 6. Pay your mortgage (not only the interest) I see this recurring in my clients’ accounts: they only pay their interest on the mortgage. But, a little goes a long way. Make sure that 25% of your 60% of lifestyle goes in the repayment of your mortgage. It is important that some of your monthly income goes towards the payment of your primary residency. You will thank yourself in the future. 7. Go to the grocery store with a list Or even better, buy your groceries online. And, if you still go to physical stores, avoid eye level products. It’s Tuesday evening, your week is full on, and the least thing you want to do is to go back home to your boring pantry. Yes, I hear you. So what do you do? You leave your house in the morning with some exciting things waiting for you. Because going to the shops on a Tuesday evening while you are tired, probably stressed from a full day of meetings and work, is a full disaster for your bank account. All you want to do is to have a release of that stress. Discipline is not in the equation. You don’t want to even hear someone saying meal prep, shopping list and savings. So, the shop next to your house or on your way home is your saver. But don’t. You know better, and again, your future self (and your body and wallet) will thank you. Be prepared. Preparation beats everything else. It’s the best secret for success. And because you are reading this article, I know you are aiming for success. So go on, go online and buy yourself some treats. They will wait for you at home on a Tuesday evening. If you need help with your finances, you know where to find me. Email me here and let’s have a chat. Your future self will thank you. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Elena! Elena Manole, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Elena is a time management and productivity coach. She teaches female entrepreneurs how to bring more balance to their life and structure their days so that their priorities are on top of their list. Her clients thrive on accountability and clarity as well as compassion and gentleness. Elena is a hands-on productivity teacher passionate about all things done in a mindful way. She helps her clients fulfil their deepest visions and desires without sacrificing anything in their life. Today she lives her vision and makes a point to remind herself, and her clients, that living a life based on values means that we don't have to wait for the next goal to be reached in order to be happy and fulfilled.

Written by: Malissa Veroni, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. We have heard about bullying bosses, difficult coworkers or clients, but does narcissism exist in the workplace? Narcissism has been a hot word for the last few years with more people becoming aware of this personality style in hopes to understand it and avoid the often devastating and maddening effect it can have on people, in relationships, workplaces, and the overall community. While it is true that not all workplaces have narcissistic people in them, for the organizations or workplaces that do have it, it can hurt team morale, employees’ mental health, productivity, and customer outcomes. We all had rough days at work but this is a whole other level. Narcissism in the workplace can be covert or overt and can vary in how it is observed and supported. It can show itself in a coworker, someone in leadership, or be a communal culture. While leaving your job may be an option for some people, it may not be an option for everyone. One may need to stay at their job, for a variety of reasons, so here are a few examples to help you recognize narcissism in the workplace and help you manage your mental health while keeping your job. Give Aways of Narcissism in the Work Place You typically can see the overt bully coming, however, they may not be as obvious. Discovering and coping with it can be confusing and can trigger relational and family traumas which can have a greater impact on one’s mental health. People often say that they are being ignored or feel like there are going crazy (gaslight). They may also report that they feel like they are being bullied and may even share stories of how a narcissistic person stole their project or clients at work. Here are a few tell-tale signs you might be dealing with narcissism personality styles in the workplace: Does someone in the workplace put on a big show for simply doing what they are supposed to do anyways Does someone in the workplace think and act like the boss, perhaps even give your direction or discipline but they do not have the authority to do so Does someone in the workplace think that rules (and sometimes laws) do not apply to them and that they may readily break them without remorse Does someone in the workplace, struggle with or cannot handle criticism? Do they “blow up” with feedback so people may avoid telling them things that may need correction? These examples and more can challenge your ability to do work, want to show up, and be part of the team. It can also negatively affect your mental health, how you feel about yourself and how you feel about your work. Because of this, it is something that people often bring home with them which in turn can also impact your relationships and your time away from work. There is only so much one can handle before it gets to you! So how do you keep your sanity and your job? How to Keep your Sanity and your Job: This is going to sound easier than it is and will take a lot of extra effort from you. It can be challenging as when you feel dragged down it is preciously the time you need to take positive action. Here are some tips for you to keep your sanity and your job at the same time: It is really important to keep records. You may need to keep it in a secure place at work or take it home with you if you are worried that someone may read it or use it against you. Keep one journal for your factual interactions and observations and keep another journal for your feelings and experiences. It is essential to establish clear boundaries. It is okay to have different boundaries than your coworkers with the egoistical person at work. An example of a boundary may be how often you talk to the combative person. Sometimes keeping your communication to email only can help limit challenges and help you keep a paper trail. It is imperative that you build your support system, both inside and outside of work. We all need to be around people that help build us up and fill our cups. Be sure to be that for someone else as well. People need people. Please do not ignore abusive behaviour. If you feel you are in danger call protective services, and talk to your leadership, Human Resources, and/or your union. Everyone deserves to be and feel safe at work-in fact it is the law in many countries. Life is all about balance. Make sure you have something outside of work to look forward to regularly. Exercising can be helpful to cope with feelings of stress and tension as well as to help build overall wellness. There is hope and help. By following these tips you can be well on your way to making your workplace and mental health more safe and more satisfying. We all deserve peace and to be safe at work. If you need more support, it is important to see a qualified registered therapist who is trained and understands narcissism and abuse as well as the additional complexities of dealing with it in the workplace. This is your livelihood. We at Keep’N It Real Solutions are happy to walk alongside you with this issue, and other issues, to help strengthen your mental health and get the solutions you need and deserve! Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Malissa! Malissa Veroni, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Malissa Veroni is the founding CEO and lead therapist at Keep’N It Real Solutions. For the past 15 years Malissa has been a foot solider in the field of social work; teaching, and serving students and clients alike. She is a published author, mentor, and mental health therapist who focuses on combining theory, practical approach and individual quality holistic care to help clients heal and grow from a variety of concerns. Malissa is known as a specialist in the field of Narcissistic Abuse, Intimate Partner Violence, the LGBTQ2s Community, and in Sex Therapy. She is also a Designated Capacity Assessor and a mentor to several social workers worldwide.

Written by: Dr. Allen Lycka, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Purpose is the reason why we do what we do. It is the driving force behind our actions, the thing that gives us direction and meaning in our lives. Without purpose, we are simply going through the motions, living our lives on autopilot. But with purpose, we can achieve great things, positively impact the world, and find true fulfillment and satisfaction in our lives. As a successful author, speaker, and motivational coach, I have seen firsthand the power of purpose in people's lives. I have met countless individuals stuck in dead-end jobs, unhappy in their relationships, and unfulfilled and uninspired. But once they discovered their purpose, everything changed. They found the motivation and drive to pursue their passions, make positive changes, and achieve their goals. One of the keys to discovering your purpose is to take some time to reflect on your passions, values, and talents. What are the things that you are genuinely passionate about? What are the things that you believe in and value most deeply? And what are the talents and skills you have that can be used to impact the world positively? These are all important clues that can help you to understand your purpose. Another key to discovering your purpose is to take action. Many people spend their entire lives waiting for a sign or confirmation that they are on the right path. But the truth is, your purpose is not something that is going to be handed to you on a silver platter. You have to be willing to take risks, step out of your comfort zone, and go after what you want. One of the best ways to take action and discover your purpose is to set goals for yourself. Goals give you a clear direction and a sense of purpose. They help you to focus your energy and resources on the things that are most important to you. And when you achieve your goals, you feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that is truly fulfilling. I often tell my clients that "success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." When you are doing something that you are passionate about, that aligns with your values and purpose, and that makes a positive impact on the world; you can't help but be successful. Your energy and enthusiasm will be contagious, and people will be drawn to you and your message. It's important to remember that your purpose is not something that is set in stone. It is something that can evolve and change over time. As you grow and develop as a person, your purpose may change as well. That's why it's essential to continue to reflect on your passions, values, and talents and to be open to new opportunities and experiences. One of the biggest misconceptions about purpose is that it is only for a select few. You may believe you must be a world leader, a celebrity, or a millionaire to have a sense of purpose. But the truth is, everyone has a purpose. Everyone has something unique and valuable to contribute to the world. And everyone has the potential to make a positive impact on the planet. In conclusion, your purpose is why we do what we do. It is the driving force behind our actions, the thing that gives us direction and meaning in our lives. Without purpose, we are simply going through the motions, living our lives on autopilot. But with purpose, we can achieve great things, positively impact the world, and find true fulfillment and satisfaction in our lives. Remember, success is not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success. And when you love what you are doing. Dr Allen Steven Lycka is an internationally renowned speaker, coach and thought leader. Join him here or in his community. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Youtube, or visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. Allen! Dr. Allen Lycka, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Dr. Allen Lycka is acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world. In 2003, Dr. Lycka was diagnosed with ALS and given six months to live. After fighting the diagnosis, he is here today as a result of his courage and tenacity. Having been given a “golden ticket” Dr. Lycka used his experience to co-author the books The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life with Harriet Tinka, Pillars of Success with 1 New York Times Best Selling Author Jack Canfield and bLU volume 1 with Corey Poirier. He is the host and executive director of How To Live a Fantastic Life show with 4 million listeners per episode. He is a sought-after speaker.

Written by: Dr. Sydney Ceruto, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. At some point in our lives, we've all experienced self-doubt and insecurity. Whether before a big presentation, meeting someone new, or starting a new project, we've all felt those nagging voices in our heads that tell us we're not good enough. But here's the thing: confidence isn't something you're born with; it's something you can build and cultivate over time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the strategies and techniques you can use to build unstoppable confidence and overcome self-doubt. The importance of self-awareness in building confidence The first step to building confidence is self-awareness. This means understanding your strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs. When you clearly understand who you are and what you stand for, you can start to build a foundation of confidence rooted in authenticity. Strategies for overcoming self-doubt and fostering self-belief Once you have a strong foundation of self-awareness, it's time to start tackling your self-doubt head-on. One of the best ways to do this is to practice self-compassion. This means treating yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a good friend. It also means reframing your negative self-talk into positive self-talk and recognizing that failure is a natural part of the learning process. The role of positive self-talk and affirmations in building confidence Another powerful technique for building confidence is using positive self-talk and affirmations. This means intentionally replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations that reinforce your self-belief. For example, instead of telling yourself, "I'm not good enough," try saying, "I am capable and confident in my abilities." Techniques for developing resilience and bouncing back from failure Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward. It's a key component of confidence because it helps you build the mental toughness and emotional resilience needed to overcome challenges and setbacks. Techniques for building resilience include reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, focusing on solutions rather than problems, and building a support network of friends and family. The power of setting and achieving goals for building confidence Finally, one of the most potent ways to build confidence is by setting and achieving goals. This means identifying specific, measurable, and achievable goals that align with your values and interests and then breaking them down into smaller, actionable steps. When you achieve these goals, you'll build a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy, further reinforcing your confidence. Conclusion In conclusion, building unstoppable confidence is a journey that takes time and effort. It requires self-awareness, self-compassion, positive self-talk, resilience, and goal-setting. But with consistent practice and dedication, you can cultivate unshakeable confidence that will help you succeed in every area of your life. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. Sydney! Dr. Sydney Ceruto, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Dr. Sydney Ceruto has completed her doctoral education in the field of Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience & is a leading specialist in using your brains natural ability to change neuroplasticity to ensure you reach your desired goals. Her specialty is in helping clients recognize their faulty thinking patterns, change undesirable behaviors, developmental & emotional resiliency, & gain mental clarity. When Dr. Ceruto was a teenager, she tragically lost both parents. As an only child, the loss of family completely broke her. She became profoundly depressed & began suffering from chronic anxiety. Sydney felt lost, & any form of happiness, confidence, or clarity seemed a long way off. Soon after, she began to pursue her education in medicine at Yale & obtained three masters in psychology & two Ph.D.’s in both cognitive & behavioral neuroscience at NYU. Studying the mind-brain connection was indeed the paradigm for her healing & growth. Dr. Sydney Ceruto created MindLAB Neuroscience over two decades ago. She pioneered an integrative approach based on hard science that has genuinely changed the way people make positive &, more importantly, permanent changes in all areas of their lives. Her program is highly venerated & has debunked all the myths regarding the efficacy of “traditional therapy” & the sad misnomer that you need to be on a counselor’s couch for years or even decades. Several publications have Dr. Sydney Ceruto on staff as a senior writer. She is a proud member of the Forbes Executive Council, Positive Performance Alliance, Wharton Executive Education Program, and Executive Writer for Alternatives Watch and Brainz Magazine. She has an avid intellect, a keen understanding of human nature, & an uncanny ability to connect deeply with clients. Dr. Ceruto is hands-on, accessible, highly intuitive, compassionate & is told… pretty funny! One of her passions is traveling, which she has done extensively. Dr. Ceruto is an avid sports enthusiast and watches everything from football to Formula 1 racing. She plays golf whenever she can and enjoys exploring other cultures. Dr. Ceruto has one son who graduated from Princeton University and is studying to become a corporate attorney. She also has an affinity for animals and is an adoring mom to her 1.5-pound Micro Cuban Chihuahua, Lolita.