When I was a kid, I believed in Santa Claus. I believed in the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny. I thought that there were pots of gold and leprechauns at the end of rainbows. And I thought that you could only be successful through struggle.

I was wrong on all accounts.

The biggest questions I hear when I talk about my professional coaching life fall in two categories: “What is life coaching?” and “Should I see a life coach or a therapist?”

Just over a year ago, I was at one of the lowest points I've experienced in my life. I was living a life where I was unhappy every day, and now I look forward to what my days will bring. 

We've all seen the lists of 40+ ways to take care of yourself in the moment. They're extensive, but usually only short-lived ideas like taking a bath or buying flowers. Here's my list of top long-lasting ways to take care of yourself

Self care is a topic I'm passionate about. It's something that I devote a significant part of my business and platforms to speaking on, and it definitely is a concept that needs to become more prominent in today's world. Very rarely does our culture, our corporate structure, or our personal lives put any importance on building a life of balance. But it's so, so necessary! These three rules are how I keep myself in check -- try them in your life, too!

When we think of the hurtles in front of us before starting our businesses, things like stability, self-doubt, and isolation pop up. But how often do we truly face the truth and think of the biggest roadblock of all: internal resistance. I'm talking procrastination, excuse-making, distractions, the whole nine yards.

One of the biggest ways to "up-level" your business (such a popular term right now!) is to surround yourself with people who inspire and support you. Having that community to rely on, to bounce ideas off of, to get recommendations and encouragement from -- it's an invaluable resource for your business. 

Let's take a moment to channel Simon Sinek. When running your business, it's most important to let your purpose and your "why" rule above all else. It's a concept we've all heard time and time again, but it really isn't a practice most companies (and people) actually act on. In a way, this is one of the most frustrating things to witness as someone who is building an entire business around their purpose, and making sure it's one that represents all parts of who I am as well.