Christian Louboutin has created quite the name for himself over the years, with a massive popularity spike in red bottoms. The French footwear designer has also done a great job expanding into the men’s demographic as well with the sneaker silhouettes like the Christian Louboutin Louis Flat. We have seen this shoe in all sorts of shapes and colors, and today is a colorway perfect for the spring season. As part of the brand’s Spring/Summer 2012 footwear collection, they are introducing this gingham and checkered pattern paired with a metallic heel cup and matching heel tab. The shoe will be dropping in both a blue and red colorway. Price: $795 USD Purchase: Christian Louboutin Add Comment 
The Mayan Calendar proclaims 2012 as the Year of New Beginnings. But it doesn’t say that in your overloaded planner, now does it? Too much to do, too many responsibilities, too many meetings, deadlines and far too little time. Too much crap in the way. Feels more like the end of the world then a new beginning, right? It felt like that to me when I landed in the hospital over Christmas. Needles pierced my skin begging me to make changes. Three surgeries and weeks of healing later, I decided to cut the crap that is holding back my life and make 2012 the Year of New Beginnings. From now on all my decisions and time need to be dedicated to those matters most important to me: my health, my family, and my purpose. Anything not aligning with these areas had to be culled and cleared. When you face an illness or relationship breakdown (or any other life challenges), you start to understand the importance of prioritizing. So much of our precious and limited time is taken up with unimportant tasks and people pulling our attention this way and that. The good news is that you have control over where you give your attention. Wake up now and only focus on the essentials. What are your three most important focus areas? Decide on your three highest priorities. Then take action using the following nine ways to clear out the crap so you can relish every waking minute as you realign your time and energy with your priorities to recharge your life. 1. Remove Yourself From Negative Environments Travelling for many years put me in a happiness bubble where everyone was friendly and kind. As soon as I returned to the real world (and the blogging world), I realized that there are a lot of people who love to argue. I soon found myself getting swept up in the negativity. I thought I was contributing in a positive way — or at least being helpful — but really the very act of me contributing meant that I was taking in and expending negative energy. It’s not just the arguing in the moment, but the processing of it afterwards that consumes many of your waking hours. I’ve learned that I can’t change people, but I can change my focus and where I hang out. I have since culled several communities from my online space. Don’t let people rent space in your head. Make the decision to stay away from any environments that don’t serve you. Hang around only those who help you grow and are positive and encouraging. 2. Shut Down Social Spaces I’m big on having as many windows open as possible when I’m working online. It drives my husband crazy, but it helps me to keep on track and not forget any important tasks I need to get back to. But it also ensures that I stay connected to the social sphere. The notification numbers flash at me and before you know it…I’m distracted by ridiculous status updates about lunch selections, tweets directing me to yet another interesting article, and the explosion of a new online argument. Take control and shut down the windows of your social communities. Log out. Designate times of the day to check in. Take advantage of some useful tools like Post Planner to schedule your updates for the day. You’ll soon be so involved in being productive that you won’t even notice that the social world has disappeared. 3. Forget About Checking Email Five Times an Hour Why do we feel like we need to check our emails multiple times in an hour? The fear that we are going to miss out on the next big opportunity grips us as we go and check one more time. Just in case. Did we ever check the mailbox multiple times a day? No…because we trusted that whatever was wanting our attention or needing us for the next big opportunity would arrive at approximately 3 pm every weekday afternoon. I have found a great deal of resistance to letting this one go, which I think flags another needed change: a “desperate” mindset. I have organized set times during the day to check email, and outside of those times I log off and shut down. My productivity levels have increased dramatically as a result, and I could do better still. Turn off all your email notification pop-ups (don’t forget those phone apps) and schedule in times to check your email. I promise you are not going to miss out on anything. 4. Get Back To Pen and Paper I wrote this article sitting on a beach chair by the pool. The afternoon breeze blew the sticky heat off my skin and the rainbow lorikeets sang a sunset song to me from the banksia bushes. I locked the computer away inside and I let the thoughts write freely on the page with the help of my pen — the trusty one that writes well. (Admit it — we all have that one pen that we’re attached to…) It might seem like extra work because I will have to eventually retype the piece, but it’s not really. I am relaxed, the thoughts are flowing easily, my eyes aren’t turning square, and there are no distracting flashing neon notification lights. To increase your productivity, it is important to remove yourself from your normal environment and go to a creating space that does not involve technology. You will banish that stilted electronic energy and use a more natural form. Grab a pen and paper, a hammock (and maybe even a beer), and get creating. You’ll be amazed by the quality of your word flow. 5. Go to Bed Early If you are a parent like me, you are probably thinking I am crazy for suggesting this. When the cherubs are safely tucked in their beds that is really the only time you have for productivity. But if you are culling in other areas, then your work hours will be filled with more space for greater productivity. Now you have time to go to bed at a decent hour. Studies have proven that the human being cannot function optimally if it does not get adequate rest. Burning the candle at both ends is not going to help you progress forward. You might think you are being productive but the quality of your work will suffer — not to mention the dark circles that will develop under your eyes. The more sleep we get, the more energy we have to create amazing work and complete tasks. Make an effort to get to bed before 11 pm every evening, aiming for no less than 6 hours sleep. Besides, going to bed early will help you achieve the very next important way to increase your productivity. 6. Get up Early and Utilize this Focus Time Grab the vibrant energy that arrives with the sun. As the world is not quite up and creating chaos around you, this is the perfect time for you to snap up some hours to be highly productive. Leave the emails, the social sites, and the reading of other posts. Get straight to the creation work; the work that is best going to help you achieve your goals. You may also wish to use some of this time for exercise or meditation work. I find meditating first thing in the morning helps to clear my mind and gets me feeling relaxed, connected and fresh. If you get up at around 5 am this will give you a good solid two hours of focused work; it is amazing what you can achieve in this time. 7. Say No More Often Life comes with a never-ending supply of parties, coffee meetups, meetings, phone conversations, dinner dates, conferences, press trips and every other imagined opportunity demanding our presence. It is wonderful to feel wanted, but at what cost? Attending all these functions will have a detrimental effect on your lifestyle and productivity. Last year, I was laying the foundations for our blogging business so I said ”Yes!” to everything. The four months previous to ending up in the hospital, I had a baby, was a single parent for two weeks, went overseas twice, travelled domestically for business three times, spoke at four conferences, and had meetings and events non-stop. We don’t want to miss out or let others down, so we say “Yes” instead of “No.” But this will quickly lead to a case of burnout. Saying “no” to those things that aren’t that essential will open up the way for those more important opportunities to take priority. I’ve said “no” several times this year already, and I feel less overwhelmed and more laser-focused. The right opportunities and teachers are now arriving. For each new invitation or request, ask yourself the following: “How will saying yes to this help me grow and improve in my three most important focus areas?” If it doesn’t, then say “no”. 8. Improve your Diet Have you ever stopped to think of the crap we put into our bodies? I’ve paid attention to this recently while implementing some very specific dietary lifestyle changes. After a week, it became glaringly obvious the reason for my slump in energy and frumpiness, when I lost 4 kilograms and my natural energy levels shot through the roof. My productivity levels were now matching my energy. Reduce the animal fats and sugar in your diet. Eat to live, not live to eat. I now follow the diet of the Okinawan race in Japan who have the longest life expectancy, and little incidence of heart disease and diabetes. Basically 2/3 of your diet should be plant food and 1/3 meat, comprising of mostly fish. Your health is your most important asset. Don’t push it to the side any longer. 9. De-clutter your Environment You’ll notice that up until now you have culled in order to improve your work and health, now it is important that you clear up that stale energy around you. Letting your head space be taken up with so many unimportant tasks means that we allow the papers to build up around us. And it’s not just the paper, but the clothes, the toys, the gadgets — all those things we haven’t used in months or years. Usually, we are holding onto them either because we are too lazy (or busy) to clean it, or we have that “lack” mentality that tells us to hoard…just in case. If you haven’t used it in a year, then you don’t need it. I like to assess my belongings on the basis of a year to account for the change of seasons — mostly in regards to clothing. All other items can be assessed on a shorter period of time. As a traveller, I want more memories and less stuff. Culling comes easy for me. I recently discovered old journals filled with the pain of past mistakes and regrets. I am focused on moving forward; holding onto a past I no longer want does not help me with that. I threw them directly in the bin to free up that positive energy space for me. What are you holding onto that you no longer need? Start with a different section of your room every day to declutter. Ask yourself these questions:
All you need to do now is decide. Are your dreams worth it? Do you believe in them enough? If you do then the choice becomes pretty simple. No more crap. Just new beginnings. Writer: Caz Makepeace Rick Ross - High Definition (Official Video) 02/21/2012
Solar Powered Window Charger by XDModo 02/21/2012
As technology continues to progress, individuals are making a point to search for alternative sources for energy. The first thought that comes to many of our minds for alternative sources of energy is of course solar power. In the past we have featured several different solar powered chargers, including one of our favorites in the Solar Joos Orange. Items like this were perfect for outdoor excursions, but the XDMODO Solar Window Charger is perfect for everyday use on devices like our smartphones and iPods. This device easily adheres to any window surface charging your mobile device using solar power. Get your hands on the Solar Window Charger by XDModo directly from Design 3000. Price: 49,95 € Purchase: Design 3000 Balmain Python Vest 02/21/2012
   Any dude in a python vest is swagging pretty hard, so imagine the pendulum’s arc on the man rocking a $10,000 python vest. Staff favorite Balmain invites you to conjure this image with an ashy, fancy and very intense vest made from what must have been one hell of a snake. If you can conjure the $10,222 to buy it, then by all means proceed. Price: $10,222 USD Purchase: Luisaviaroma 7 Simple Ways To Boost Your Mood 02/21/2012
We all feel a bit down at times. Perhaps you’ve had a stressful day at work, or you’re juggling a lot of different tasks at home. Maybe your plans haven’t gone as smoothly as you’d hoped, or you’re struggling to find your path in a complex world. When you’re feeling low, it’s easy to let your mood get on top of you: by snapping at your partner or kids, or procrastinating on your work, or even turning to drugs or alcohol. There are plenty of simple ways to boost your mood, though – so next time you feel bad, try one of these: #1: Walk Walking is one of my all-time favorite activities. It combines healthy exercise and fresh air, and it’s almost guaranteed to make me feel better about whatever’s getting me down. Even if you just walk around the block, you’ll be getting your blood pumping and your body moving. You’ll put some space between yourself and whatever’s bothering you. Within just a few minutes, you’ll often find that you feel much calmer. #2: Laugh You might have heard the saying that “Laughter is the best medicine.” You’ve probably experienced this at time when you’ve felt upset or annoyed – a good laugh can instantly make you feel okay again. Whether it’s a silly website or a video on YouTube, your kids’ antics or a humorous novel, think of something that’s pretty much guaranteed to make you laugh – and keep it on hand for the next time you need to boost your mood. #3: Chat Talking to a good friend can make you feel much better, especially if you’re a bit lonely or worried about something. You might not need or want advice on a particular situation – but a sympathetic ear can make things seem much better. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and let them know that you’re struggling.Maybe you feel that you have to put on a strong front for the world – but your friends and family will want to be supportive. #4: Write One of the best ways to work through worries or other negative feelings is to write about them. The process of writing helps you to clarify and structure your thoughts, and it can be more effective than simply talking about what you’re feeling. If you’ve been feeling a bit low over several days or weeks, you might want to keep a journal to help you analyze your mood. This can help you spot patterns (perhaps you feel more positive on some days than on others) and you can also try brainstorming ways to make life happier. #5: Shower A long, relaxing shower (or a bath) can make a huge difference to your mood. It’s often invigorating, especially if you’re struggling to focus on whatever task’s at hand – and it can be a much-needed chance for some peaceful time alone. You might even like to buy some nice shower gel or bath bubbles to save for when you need a pick-me-up. Giving yourself a small treat can help you feel better about things. #6: Eat If your blood sugar drops too low, you’ll find yourself getting tired and cranky, and struggling to focus. When you’re fighting your way through a long to-do list, you might forget to eat, or end up grabbing something sugary in a hurry – which usually leads to an energy and mood crash. A healthy snack or meal can lift your mood instantly. Keep some snacks on hand at work (perhaps oatcakes or fresh fruit) and make sure you’ve got a few simple, healthy, fast recipes on hand for busy evenings. #7: Breathe This is one of the simplest things you can do, in any circumstances: take a few seconds just to breathe. Concentrate on the breath going in and out of your body. You might want to close your eyes. With each exhale, feel the tension leaving you. As you inhale again, think of the life-giving air that sustains you. This is a great technique if you’re stressed out about a difficult task, or if you’re getting angry. It helps you draw your focus away from the rush of the present moment so that you can see things from a broader perspective. Often, you’ll realize what seems vitally important right now won’t even matter in a month’s time. Do you have any great ways to lift your mood? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments… Writer: Ali Luke            When there is haute couture for virtually everything, personal gadgets like the laptops, mobile handsets, and tablet computers come into the foray as well. We have earlier told you about the most expensive laptops, including Ego lifestyle Tulip notebooks, Singulum luxurious wooden notebooks with ivory & gold keyboard, and the Lugvaglio million dollar notebook. But if there are some new metallic varieties you are looking at, especially for your laptops and tablets, than the Cottin Paris series seems to be the latest in this niche genre. Beginning from $14,489 to $20,806 for the laptops, and $1,705 for the designer iPads, Cottin Paris gives every fashionable tech geek a something extra to flaunt about with personal gadgets. Beginning with the options for the laptops, the lower end of the series would begin with Color of Winter priced at €10,960 ($14,489). Aimed that the ‘rough n tough’ stylish tech geek, the cover is created out of brushed aluminum, with the interior layering done in black bull calf leather and horns. The premium option of the lot is the Color of Autumn cover (displayed above), which would be retailing for €15,740 ($20,806) per unit. Made with the theme of warm and cozy settings of the autumn season, this cover option uses the beauty of pale gold with linings of striking red suede leather, and the sophisticated beauty of rosewood. In fact, it brings back to life, much of what one may have seen in the works of Munch, Modigliani or Schiele. However, a slightly moderate option be sought for, there is the Colors of Summer option on offer as well. Priced at €14,950 ($19,758), this design uses bronze as a medium to convey highly aesthetic design. In fact, the outer part of the cover has the Sun of Vergina, which was used during the time of Alexander the great. On the other hand, it utilizes exotic stone varieties like peridots, garnets, amethysts, with the classical trimming of black patterned crocodile leather. For those who love to flaunt their iPads, there is a whole series of options for entire decorations or simply the covering options. While the entire decoration may cost €1,290 ($1,705), there are cover options ranging between €590 ($780) to €359 ($475). In fact, the leather options got our attention for the vibrant color options like ebony black alligator, bright red, beige sand iguana, pale rose, and sky blue just to name a few. The total decoration sets would include the antique silver, white and red, and black nickel options to choose from. Mind you, these things take around 48 hours of pre-delivery time to get completely done to your taste. Never the less, worth the wait we guess. Purchase: Cottin Paris Are You Proactive or Reactive? 02/20/2012
Proactivity is, according to Stephen Covey, one of the most important characteristics of successful and personally effective people. In his book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Covey sees proactivity as the foundation of all the other 6 Habits, and therefore has proactivity as Habit #1. Covey regards proactivity as the act of taking charge of your life, being responsible for it, and taking action to master your life. Covey focuses on choice as a principle that underlies proactivity, as we ultimately have the choice on how we respond to what happens to us in our lives and it is our reactions that determine how things affect us. People who lack the proactivity habit tend to be more reactive, seeing themselves as victims of circumstance, unable to change their reactions, thus feeling much less empowered. People who play the game of “tit for tat” in an argument are being reactive. They are reacting to what the other person is saying rather than being grounded and more rational where they take responsibility for their emotional triggers. The mentality that “he makes me so mad” or “she made me feel bad about myself” are examples of the victim language Underlying the Habit of Proactivity according to Covey are:
Proactive Takeaways
Writer: Judy Belmont How To Have Mental Toughness 02/19/2012
Time after time you see a promising athlete come out of college and go into the pros only to bomb out. He or she had the best athletic ability, yet could not cut it at the professional level. Others might not have great athletic ability, get picked late in the draft and go onto become super stars. Tom Brady comes to mind as someone who wasn’t particularly outstanding in college who has gone on to be a probable first time inductee into the NFL Hall of Fame. Personally I have seen the same. I spent many years in the US Army Special Forces. We would have tryouts who while in the best physical shape just could not make the grade to be a Green Beret. Others, who would seem to be nondescript, would pass the Special Forces Qualification course with flying colors and go onto to be an outstanding soldier. You are probably asking yourself by now what is the difference? What do you need to perform at the highest levels, which is even more important than physical ability? Mental Toughness Mental toughness is what separates the superstar from the merely good. It separates the musicians that play small party gigs from the rock stars. Someone without mental toughness can have all the natural talents or ability and not make it as far as someone with mental toughness with average ability. The key to mental toughness is applying consistently the traits of self motivation, positive attitude, emotional self control, calmness under fire, and being energetic and ready for action. Consistency is important. Through applying these traits day in and day out, you will be able to reach new heights in whatever endeavors you seek whether it be a sport, playing a musical instrument, coding a computer application or writing a novel. Let’s look at each of the traits of mental toughness: Self Motivation While some sports are team sports and other pursuits are done in conjunction with others life is pretty much played alone. Your motivation must come from within. The intensity of your motivation is determined by how badly you want to perform well. Motivation can be strengthened many ways. Think back to a failure. That feeling can provide the motivation to keep going, keep practicing. A time of victory can also provide the motivation to reclaim that winning feeling. Use time as a motivator. While others relax you can be gaining on them increasing your skills. Positive, Realistic Attitude You are not going to be able to do everything. In Special Forces we always looked for what someone was good at and focused on that. By focusing on strengths, you gain confidence and inspiration from them. You can create your own positive attitude. For example, smaller pro basketball players do not try to go head to head with others over seven feet tall, they focus on their speed and ball handling skills. Focus on what your natural strengths are. Emotional Self Control People who are not in control of their emotions get upset when the something doesn’t go as expected. They alienate spouses, co-workers, teammates by petty, childish behavior. Mentally tough people have tough skins and don’t let outside circumstances affect them. There will be many times whether in a game or in life that things happen outside your control. A mentally tough person keeps their emotions in check and keeps on with the game plan they had in mind from the beginning. Calm Under Fire Anything worth going for is going to be high pressure one time or another. Mentally tough people are at their best under pressure. Calmness under fire isn’t something you just switch on. The key here is to seek out pressure situations working up from low pressure to medium pressure to high pressure situations. Perform in front of larger and larger groups. Seek out better and better opponents, games top participate in. What seemed like high pressure before will become the new normal for you. Energetic and Ready For Action Mentally tough people get themselves fire up and ready to go for the battle, performance, game or whatever it may be. It might be the middle of the night, you might have played two other performances the same day or you might be under the weather. The pride you get from doing your best in less than optimal circumstances makes it that much easier to succeed in all circumstances. The third performance of the day might not be your best ever, but it should be the best you can possibly give. The next time when conditions are better you will play better for times you pushed yourself to give it all. Conclusion The great thing about mental toughness is that you are not born with it. You don’t have to learn it at a young age. Mental toughness comes simply from the decision to consistently apply the traits I have talked about. You can start today and reach levels of your game, relationships, and success that you never thought possible. Outstanding athletic prowess, superior intellect, musical talent will take someone so far. Without mental toughness they will not reach their full potential. Writer: Mike Martel | Subscribe to L'inspiration4life and get daily updates in your inbox from your favorite Global Inspirational Lifestyle Resource.
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