Happy Friday!
Last night I attended an event at Nike downtown for Air Society Chicago. I'll admit, until this week I wasn't sure what Air Society even was. But thanks to some insta-stalking and consulting with my bff (and the most put together person I know), Victoria, I learned Air Society is a community for women interested in fitness, wellness and mindfulness, meant to support each other through inspiring events throughout the city.
The event featured a panel by three Chicago fitness and health guru's Kate Lemere, Dawn Jackson Blanter and Carla Jian Primero. They discussed everything from time management, to knowing what diet works for your body and staying focused on your goals.
One of the best bits came from Dawn, who said that above all else, her philosophy is "Joy is my compass." She explained that if she lets what brings her joy and happiness guide her decisions, she can't go wrong. According to Dawn, this isn't a selfish way to live, because it ensures in each venture she decides to give herself to, she is presenting her most vivacious and best self. I took so much inspiration from these three fabulous girls, but this unique idea of "you would be way more successful if you had more fun" stuck out the most.
Vibing high, I composed a brief list of some of the things at the true north of my Joy compass.
Spending time with my dog, Luna.
Listening to music all of the time.
Being either blonde or dark, espresso brown.
Having my lashes freshly done
Lighting candles
Having a clean, decluttered space
Being in nature
Writing - like this! Everytime I start on a new blog post I get lost in it.
Having my nails nicely painted.
Taking really long walks along the lake front.
Seeing movies alone.
Honest and true friendships (so many of these for which I am endlessly thankful!)
Going dancing, but not trying too hard. Like, sneakers in the club type of thing.
Getting lost in a good book.
Wearing leggings.
Travelling- being in the airport, getting there, exploring a new or familiar place again, all of it.
Eating outside at unpretentious patios.
Being there (bringing value) for my colleagues and clients.
Swimming
Being focused and completing projects (such a challenge for me but makes me so happy once done)
Having very spontaneous and unstructured days off (for weekends or vacation).
One of the tips that was given was to add a calendar reminder or alarm on your phone that reminds you of how important the act of finding joy is. I plan to implement this immediately, adding reminders that say "is what you are doing bringing you joy?" and "goals don't work unless you do" etc.
It's been a really overwhelming few weeks for me, and I have absolutely become victim to getting lost in the fodder, not being mindful of what will actively bring me joy. Hearing from the girls at Air Society CHI was a much needed breath of fresh air (no pun intended).
For more information about Nike Air Society Chicago, check out their website here: https://www.nike.com/us/en_us/e/cities/chicago/nike-air-society-chicago