Wellness Wednesday

This week's Wellness Wednesday's topic is "Gratitude."

My Motto is "What we appreciate, appreciates."

Many tell me they do not have time to keep a gratitude journal or a have a gratitude routine. What I say to this, five/ten minutes every morning, and every evening, is not hard to take for oneself to reflect and be in gratitude. What we appreciate, appreciates.

These days, many people find all the time to complain, and there is never any joy found in complaining.

The more we can be grateful - the easier to navigate each day.

My law of 7 and 3:

Upon waking up each morning, I take five/ten minutes to reflect on

1. what I am grateful for, 2. acknowledge blessings, and 3. just breathe!

#gratitude

During the day, I stay present to 1. joyful conversations I am having, 2. words of kindness and appreciation I receive from some of my clients, 3.nice gestures from those I work with.

#joy

What are the top three things I can do each day, to be a blessing in someone else's life?

#blessings #service

What are the three things I worry about, stress about, that I am able to let go of, and allow space for "better" perspective.

#surrender

What are the three judgments I have each day, that I may be "wrong" about?

#rightperception

What are three things I may need another to assist me with today, and who is happy to assist me, if I ask?

#service

Before going to bed, I take 5/10 minutes to reflect on the day

1. what am I grateful for, 2. acknowledge blessings, and 3. just breathe!

Following are twelve of my favorite quotes on gratitude:

"This is a wonderful day I have never seen this one before." - Maya Angelou

"I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

"'Enough' is a feast." - Buddhist Proverb

"I don't have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness - it's right in front of me if I'm paying attention and practicing gratitude." - Brene Brown

"True happiness is to enjoy the present... without wishing for what he has not." - Seneca

"Cultivate an attitude of gratitude, of giving and forgiving. Nothing can bring you peace but yourself." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

"Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity. it makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow." - Melody Beattie

"We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorns have roses." - Alphonse Karr

"The thankful receiver bears a plentiful harvest." - William Blake

" Wear gratitude like a cloak, and it will feed every corner of your life." - Rumi

"Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for." - Epicurus

" Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Hospitality Hero

Zack Moghaddam

My first spin off interview of my "Hospitality Heroes"  piece, is with Zack Moghaddam,  who is Security and Parking Operations Manager at Balboa Bay Resort and Club in Newport Beach, CA.  He was kind enough to do a quick interview on July 4th weekend, to share some thoughts, insights, and perspectives.

Hope you enjoy, and possibly get a tidbit ( or more)  of wisdom,  to help you move forward on your journey in a "people" industry.

Me: So what is the one lesson you learned this past year working? If you had to pick one?

Zack: How important one's health is, and also  the other things that are  important  in life for me:  good health, faith in God,  family.

My takeaway: I think many of us, who already valued having good health, understand on a deeper level, that  it is the responsibility to one's own self  especially,  to make good decisions, and to have proper discernment regarding one's health and wellbeing.  Whether it is physical health, mental health, emotional health, spiritual health; we all make choices daily, on how we manage and hopefully thrive in these areas. 

#wellbeing

#goodhealth

#emotionalhealth

#mentalhealth

#spiritualhealth 

Me: Now that people are traveling, and this past year is behind us... with many lessons learned, and many challenges hopefully met, faced, and solved; what is one of the lessons that you would like to share about now moving forward? 

Zack: Mental Fortitude. I need to stay strong mentally, and remain positive. Staying positive, and keeping a positive mindset is imperative. Also the concept of being a 'good steward.' A 'good steward' to the industry. I am here to serve others, and give excellent guest service. The luxury guest experience is all about customer service, and being there for our guests.

My takeaway:

This last year, was especially all about mental fortitude and focus in our work. The concept Zack mentions about being a "good  steward" is significant. I believe we all have innate gifts, and talents; and we are here to be "good stewards" of what we have been blessed with. I believe we are here to  use our innate  gifts to share with others, as well as support and encourage others in our spheres of influence. 

There is a verse in the Bible, Proverbs 18:16 - "A man's gift makes room for him, And brings him before great men." I believe many in the hospitality industry, like Zack, are blessed with the gifts of loving others;  being of service; having a warm,  compassionate personality;  and a friendly demeanor. These traits are invaluable to an industry that was , and hopefully still is,  built upon service, hospitality, smiles, laughter, and genuine people who are authentically a pleasure to be around.

#mentalfortitude

#goodsteward

#innategifts

#naturaltalents 

Zack: Another lesson I learned, and still incorporate in my life and work,  is to take things one day at a time. I stay focused on the task at hand. I take one task at a time, and sometimes I take one hour at a time. I want to be excellent with what I do, and whatever the task, I want to do it with excellence. Now that people are traveling, and with the huge surge in guests coming here, as well as business demands; things can get very taxing – so one day at a time and continuing to deliver excellent guest service is at the forefront, and a priority.

My takeaway:

The "one day at a time" concept, and the "one hour at a time" concept I do believe many of us learned on such a deep level  this last year. It is definitely something to move forward with. 

For me, if I am not in the moment, and being present with what I am doing, I need to slow myself down. For me, "slower is always faster." I know this sounds like a "paradox" but it does work. When I take a moment to breathe, and slow things down;  I end up being more present, more efficient, more peaceful, and better able to engage with others, or accomplish the task at hand. This ends up being "faster" overall.

#onedayatatime

#onehouratatime

#slowerisfaster 

Me: So my last question, is about this "robot" culture...  

I notice when I call over to your Resort, there is always someone who answers the phone;  is friendly, respectful, and clearly  all about service. (Hence, maybe one of the reasons you are so busy over there with high occupancy). 

Other Resorts I have called, especially in the past couple months, and the people who answer the phone sound miserable, grumpy, and do not even know who is working at their own property.... and  then they forward  the call right to someone's voice mail or just hang up. 

Others I have called, guests have to press #1, for this; and #2 for that; etc.... For me,  I know that  I like speaking with a real person, with a friendly personality. This does not seem to be the "norm" anymore. Do you think as time goes by, the hospitality Industry will become more and more automated?

Zack: Well. I believe that one of the main factors as to why  our guests travel, and stay with us, is for the service. And yes, we are extremely busy with guests from all over, and this is good. We provide excellent service.  Myself included, I do not want to call a Resort and have the call go to some automation, press #1, press #2, etc... I prefer the industry does not move toward automation, as there still are people in our industry  who want to assist guests, and also members, as many Resorts also have members to serve as well.

My takeaway:

I agree 150% with Zack. There are still "people people" in this world, and especially in the hospitality arena.  These individuals  want to be of service, and engage with guests – making the whole travel experience a true pleasure and a  wonderful experience for those who are vacationing, traveling on business, or just having a stay-cation. Whatever the  travel plans... robots will never replace human interaction, human personality, and human warmth and compassion. 

#norobots

#compassion

#warmth

#service

Me: I want to thank Zack for this interview. It is abundantly clear,  that Zack  is a true "Hospitality Hero" - and I am blessed to know him. He has helped me much this past year, with his service, friendship, business, as well as presence.

If you want to learn more about Balboa Bay Resort- check out balboabayresort.com

#balboabayresort 

Concierge – At Your Service

Featured Spotlight - Alexandra Yarborough

(Senior Concierge)

I met Alexandra many years ago at La Costa Resort in Carlsbad – now it is Omni La Costa. As I have been doing these interviews, I thought Alexandra would be a perfect fit for my series on workplace wholeness and workplace wellness.

As mentioned in some of my previous interviews, I want to shine a light on those who are positive, engaging, present, as well as “whole;” as they bring their unique perspectives to their work. In the times we are in, some in the hospitality industry can feel “pressured” and possibly “over worked,” but more so than not, most are super happy in their positions, and have excelled within the brands they work for. Not only that, they are appreciated and valued by their employers.

What is it about them as individuals? And what does it also say about the companies they work for that encourage and appreciate this kind of talent?

Our work is supposed to be a place where we can be ourselves, and whatever the “job” or “profession,” we can all be healers for one another by being truly present, and engaged
in how we interact with one another.

It is my hope that we can all learn and grow by engaging in meaningful conversations such as these that can benefit the whole.

My interview with Alexandra is below...


Me: How long have you been in the Hospitality/Spa arena?


Alexandra: I started with La Costa in June 2011, and now it is Omni, so I have been working at this location 7 years.

My take away:


I met Alexandra when the Resort was La Costa Resort, a KSL Resort, and even back then I knew she was someone special, and knew that she was going to thrive in the hospitality space. Hospitality is about people and service. Alexandra is defiantly a people person, who is not only heart centered and present in all that she does and says, but is also super organized and efficient. This blend makes for a spectacular fit for any team at a Resort.

#hospitality

#service

#being integrated at work

#workplace wholeness


Me: Did you have prior experience in concierge services before getting hired?

Alexandra: I had no prior experience. I went to a job fair here at La Costa and got a call back. I was interviewed, and then hired in a “seasonal” concierge position. Once the season was over, I was asked if I wanted to stay and they changed my position to full time concierge.

My take away:


Being a people person, does not involve any “prior experience” – it is the experience of demonstration. Those who genuinely love connecting with others have the ability to be present in another’s presence and are here to serve – there is no “training” for these skills. These are the best types of individuals for companies to hire, as these are the leaders and team players. One can lead and also be part of a winning team. Organizational details and specialized “tasks” can be taught. Thriving companies look for people like Alexandra.

#connection

#presence

#leaders

#team players

Me: I notice that the concierge interacts with every department. How have you been able to master this role?


Alexandra: I embrace the fact that I work as a team with other departments. My main point of contact is with the front office, bell stand, In room dining team, and IT.; but my role can be seen as a kind of liaison among all departments. I have been really good at connection and creating relationships and alliances with other key departments such as Sales, Marketing, Food and Beverage, and Accounting. I take the time to get to know the individuals in each department and love creating and building relationships.

My take away:


The value of relationships and connection is crucial – especially in the work environment. We spend so much of our time as well as our energy in our “jobs” or “positions” that if we are not connecting with others in our work environment, then this should be a call for concern. Those who take the time to work with those with whom they can connect with on both a personal and professional level, lead richer lives, and are generally more fulfilled and content in their work.

#workplace wholeness

#connection

#relationship building

Me: So do you have a favorite part of your job?


Alexandra: My favorite part is connecting with different departments to really shift the dynamics of work culture. When someone new comes on board, I make it a point to introduce myself, and maintain and build from there. I like to develop rapport with others.

My second favorite part of my job is service and creating an exceptional type of experience for each guest – whether it is in person or on the phone.

#work culture

#workplace wholeness

My take away:


As many industries are wanting their workers and employees to become more “robotic” and mechanic in their day to day responsibilities, it is great to know that there are those companies who value individual talents, gifts, and perspectives. The whole is about the sum of its parts... so those who embrace the uniqueness of its parts, make for a thriving work culture. It is awesome that Alexandra can bring her uniqueness, flair, and perspectives to her role, as she is definitely a key part of the overall team.

#workplace wholeness

#company culture

#uniqueness

Me: Since you interact with so many guests, do you ever have any “difficult” ones, and if so, how do you handle these guests?


Alexandra: Most of our guests are a joy and a delight! If there is a “difficult” guest, sometimes I will take a step away from my desk, and just breathe. I remind myself that people generally bring in who they are and where they are at in life. I also remind myself that they have chosen to be “delightful” or “difficult.” For the “difficult ones,” I see this as an opportunity to build my skill set, attitude, and character. I can not take their attitude personally. I can only do my best and maintain grace and poise serving them. I am really good at being gracious, diplomatic, and flexible.

My take away:


This can be a common theme of any job or position. While most people are wonderful to work with, there can be those that are “difficult.” Whether it is a one time interaction with a guest or client, or it is a pattern with someone we work with, it is best to remember to not take it “personal.” Alexandra’s way of handling tough situations is spot on, and we can all take this in.

Me: You do so much and have so many responsibilities, are you good at asking for help when you need to?


Alexandra: Yes, I do not have a problem with asking for help or advice. I ask for help when I really need it and I am also patient when others need it. I am really good at juggling things, in general, and am good at prioritizing and delegating. I realize that I can’t be the best in all areas.

My take away:

Many of us have so much on our plates and are pulled in so many directions, it is definitely a sign of strength to be able to ask for help or advice. We are all here to contribute our uniqueness and perspectives to all we do, so if others can add a perspective or lending hand, it is always wonderful as well as appreciated on multiple levels.

Me: Two part question: How are able to be so grounded and centered ? Do you have any daily “routines?”

Alexandra: One of the most important things in life is to let people know that I see them and acknowledge them. I let people know this in my actions. I am present with what I am doing, whether face to face or on the phone. I am able to give guests my full attention.

I am most recently starting “routines” around my high time and low time of energy. I am finding my algorithm. I start my day with prayer and time in God’s Word receiving instruction and strength from Him. For ten minutes or so, before work, I visualize what my day will look like, and I set my goals for the day (personal as well). I have a visual calendar as well as use Evernote, where I prioritize most important to least important for personal, work, and my music. I like to do a journal “mind spill.” This is when I write down all that is on my mind and release.

Also, I like to walk during my lunch breaks. The one thing in my routine that is non-negotiable is my Bible time in the morning. Being in the Word gives me peace of mind. Peace is the highest priority.

My take away:

The importance of daily rituals, and finding one’s own unique flow in maintaining one’s center point is imperative, especially in the times we are in!

#daily rituals

#free flow writing

#spiritual practice.

Me: We touched on your music briefly, so let’s chat a bit more about your music, as well as what some of your other passions and interests are.


Alexandra: I enjoy UFC fights as well as love to hang out with friends. I love to go for walks on the beach and I also love to explore brief excursion to learn more about my city. I enjoy time with family, and I love to do my music. I am a songwriter. I write all my own music and sing. My stage name is Lexy Luz (Luz means light in Spanish), and you can find my music on YouTube, iTunes, and Soundcloud.

My take away:

The ability to express oneself and touch others, whether writing, speaking, singing, or rapping – is a gift as well as an art. Alexandra is definitely creative, artistic, heart centered, and present in all she does. The consciousness she brings to her work, is the same consciousness she brings to everything else in her life!

#connection

#consciousness

#content same form different.

Me: What two words sum up 2018 so far for you?


Alexandra: “Keep your eyes on Jesus” – this sums up my faith. Keep eyes on God, whatever the circumstances. Through all of my experiences, my faith has deepened, and I am very aligned in my faith and trust in Christ Alone as my source. My faith in Him guides me and leads me to be all I can be to serve others.

#faith

#trust

My take away:

Alexandra is a true demonstration of walking her talk. Her actions, words, and deeds are aligned; and her core is one of beauty, grace, and divine radiance. The glow she has and the faith, joy, and trust she radiates is extremely spectacular!

I am so blessed and grateful for this interview. Being able to share and connect with someone like Alexandra is a treat, and it is wonderful to be able to connect on many levels. It is my hope that those reading this interview can take away something that may resonate with them and their own journey.

#authenticity

#divine alignment

#beauty

#grace

#deep gratitude

For more information on Alexandra and her music, visit:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mtZ7WRCTy0