Creativity, Art, and Faith

In past blog series, I often asked about "recommended podcasts/ books." My friend Tom had recommended the "Rich Roll" podcast, and I was listening to an amazing podcast episode recently, with Rich Roll and his guest Terry Crews, on strength through vulnerability, true power, and transformation.

I write a lot about creativity, the arts, and faith, and Terry shares a lot about his childhood and his own creative gifts. I believe we are all born with gifts. Unfortunately, many parents, teachers, religious leaders, peers, etc... do not support or encourage an individual's innate gifts, especially when these gifts are in the arts and of a creative nature. Terry was blessed to have an art teacher who not only saw and recognized his artistic talents and gifts, but also shined a light on them; supported, and then took impressive action to make sure that Terry got on a path to manifest those gifts.

#richroll

#terrycrews

#lifelongartist

#sensitivesoul

#bornwithgifts

#creativity

I do believe that ultimately, creative gifts and talents do bear fruit and come to fruition, sometimes sooner, and sometimes later in life.. It is indeed clear that we are not to "hide" creative gifts. People are placed in our lives and on our paths to remind us and encourage us to nurture, and to find joy in our innate talents and gifts. Sometimes it is earlier in life, as was the case with Terry, and sometimes it is later in life.

Life is indeed a journey! It is always in the being and becoming, that we find the deeper wisdom of our own uniqueness and path.

#ownyourpath

#lifeisajourney

#being

#becoming

#uniqueness

Terry goes on to share a lot about his personal as well as professional challenges and struggles. I am sure that many can indeed take away and learn a thing or two, from this podcast episode..

Some of the many topics Terry and Rich chat about:

• Faith and Action

• Intimacy and Connection

• Gratitude, Peace, and Acceptance

• Artists as Idealists

• Addictions - they work, until they stop working

• The Serenity Prayer

• Service and Rabindranath Tagore's quote about service.(below)

• Terry's profound quote on "being" - "In order to have, just do, and in order to do, must be."

#faithandaction

#intimacy

#service

#connection

#gratitude

#serenityprayer

#being

#transformation

The full interview:

Terry Crews On Healthy Masculinity, Strength Through Vulnerability & True Power | Rich Roll

Rabindranath Tagore - "I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and saw that life was service. I acted

and behold, service was joy."

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

A Leader in Spa and The Workplace Wholeness Space

Featured Spotlight - Joshua Bredimus

(Area Director Spa & Fitness Hotel Valley Ho & Mountain Shadows)

This blog series has been an amazing platform to connect with others who are heart centered, authentic, and real. These individuals offer not only unique perspectives to what they do within the hospitality industry, but they are also demonstrations of heart based and compassionate leadership.

From the first time I met Joshua, I knew there was something quite amazing about him. His professional demeanor coupled with his compassionate and open heart was evident, so I knew that interviewing him would be a perfect fit for this series.

As mentioned in some of my previous posts, rising stars are indeed just that! Rising stars. They are stars that shine from within and it is obvious to those they connect with.

By shining a spotlight on individuals who bring their uniqueness to their work, and shine within their organizations, it is my hope that those reading can understand, if they do not already – people first then profits. Individual uniqueness first and then training within that uniqueness. When companies understand we are all unique expressions and we bring our own gifts, talents, personalities, and flair to what we do, it is a “win” for everyone!

Many of these individuals I have interviewed, have excelled within the brands they work for; and are also 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?

My interview with Joshua is below…

Me: How long have you been in your position as Area Director of Spa & Fitness at Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows?

Joshua: I have been in this role approximately a year and a half, and prior to this I was Spa Director at Hotel Valley Ho, for approximately two and one half years.

My take away:

When I met Joshua years ago, he was working as Spa Director at Saguaro Spa, and I knew there was something so uniquely amazing about him. It is no surprise to me that Joshua has been able to grow and expand within his present company, and I am sure there is so much more to see from him, as he evolves in his position as Area Director of Spa & Fitness.

#authenticity

#uniqueness

Me: So, tell me a bit about your background. Did you always want to be in the Hospitality Industry?

Joshua: I started out as a personal trainer and then massage therapist. I have a degree in exercise and wellness, and became an exercise physiologist.

My take away:

I have noticed that a lot of individuals within the hospitality arena, come with a background in health and/or fitness. Since we all bring our consciousness to all we do, it is not surprising to me that Joshua would use his background, personality, as well as his innate gifts in a way that is complementary to any “job,” or in any “field” of work.

Me: Let’s chat a bit about the “guest experience.” I know this is one of your main focuses.

Joshua: Our philosophy is “happy guests.” Whether a guest comes in for a “discounted” service, or it is one of our most “important” guests, we do not “rate” guests. Whoever is our guest in each moment, is the most important in that moment. When guests go to a spa, they are looking for a wonderful experience. Much of this experience is based on the individuals who work with us, as well as all of the other elements that make up an amazing experience. There is an authentic component that is accessible to each guest, so that they feel the passion and thought put into each service, as well as the fluidity and organic nature of each experience.

My take away:

It is always the “experience” that leads. When a guest has an amazing experience, that experience lasts beyond the time and space spent at a location. There are many “intangible” qualities that make for a spectacular experience, and Joshua understands this on a very deep level.

#guest experience

#intangibles

Me: With my own passion for workplace wholeness and all of its components, tell me a bit about your amazing Roc @ Life.

Joshua: So Roc @ Life is our Corporate Wellness Program. I run the program, and since our umbrella company is West Roc, this is a terrific name and concept. We have nutritional seminars, free fitness classes, daily exercise assessments, we have special events, as well as contests. Our wellness calendar is updated monthly. Our program is available to all employees, as it is our desire for all our employees to function at their best.

My take away:

Obviously I am intrigued by this program, as the focus on wholeness and wellness among all employees is impressive. Joshua understands fully that individuals who function at their best and feel good, ultimately add to an entire team and staff feeling good, uplifted, as well as inspired. Our workplace is a place where we should thrive and be within a culture where we feel supported to function at our best and highest potential. I love what Joshua and his team have put together for Roc@Life.

#workplace wholeness

#company culture

Me: So, with all you do, how do you stay so organized and present?

Joshua: I am very organized and I pay attention to others. I know how to prioritize and what to do next, or what can be done at a later time/ date. I use my calendar function on my iphone. I love to learn and I think true listening and being present comes with the job. We need to be intuitive with our guests, and it takes practice as well as consistency to be of great service to others.

My take away:

The ability to stay organized and be truly present is imperative for anyone who strives to be of service to others. The intuitive aspect that Joshua mentions, is rarely spoken about, and I believe it to be one of the most significant aspects to any job working with others. Being able to connect on a heart level and also an intuitive level, are the intangible “soft skills” that many companies are looking for. The heart and intuition are the leading guides to establishing and maintaining true and lasting connections with others. Joshua’s gifts of being heart centered and intuitive, while also being organized and professional, speaks volumes as to the type of leader he is.

#intuition

#heart centeredness

#true leadership

Me: Let’s chat about your team, as you must have a great team to be able to accomplish all you do, and be able to remain so authentic.

Joshua: I have an amazing team! Without my team I would not be able to do what I do. If no strong team, no strong operation. I am able to delegate and I have strong people in leadership positions. I focus on what each individual does well, and my awareness in this helps a lot. I want others to have the freedom to make decisions on their own, and I don’t get in the way of the things they are good at. I enjoy being able to utilize and honor a person’s talents for their own individual development as well as for the collective product we give to our guests.

#teamsynergy

#unique talents

#freedom of expression

Me: What is your favorite part of your job?

Joshua: I love sharing ideas that are “out of the box” that no one has considered. I love unique ideas, concepts, as well as the sharing of them. Whether others “like” it or not, I love the process. We have a mantra here – “the best ideas win.” It does not matter who comes up with the idea – we always want the best ideas to be implemented.

My take away:

Many of us are “out of the box” thinkers. It is amazing that Joshua is himself an “out of the box” thinker, and also embraces others’ creativity and unique perspectives and ideas. Too many companies are not only “rigid” in their approach, but also are not receptive to others’ ideas and feedback; and this in fact does everyone a disservice. Joshua’s environment of team, fresh ideas, and honoring others perspectives; is an environment that truly supports the thriving of its employees, as well as the larger organization as a whole.

Me: What are the things you enjoy outside of work? Hobbies?

Joshua: I love classic cars, music, food, and travel. I also love to write. I write stories with plots and twists, and many of my friends read them. I think it is important to do things that are fun and enjoyable. You don’t have to be “great” at things, as long as you find the pleasure in them. I also love to learn. I am a continual student, as there is always more to learn. The best in life is when I surprise myself with a skill I never knew I had.

My take away:

So many layers to this answer. It is amazing when we can take time to have fun, and do things solely for the pleasure and joy it brings us. As Joshua mentions, we don’t have to be “great” at things to enjoy them. As long as we are doing them, and having fun- that is what matters. Also, it is my belief as well, that we are all students. We are all learning; and being curious about life is one of the foundations from which springs forth great things, new ideas, and evolving concepts. Joshua is a demonstration of this in both his personal life and professional life – his being present and his sense of wonderment and curiosity is powerful.

#enjoying life

#curiosity

Me: With 2018 more than half over, what two words sum up 2018 so far for you – both professionally and personally?

Joshua: Learning & Growth. There are always amazing opportunities being presented, and it is up to me to sift through each opportunity and look at which ones are good for all or most. Which ones will make the largest impact in the most positive ways.

My take away:

With so many opportunities, and time being such a valuable resource, I know how imperative it is to review each and every opportunity and make the best decisions we can. Many times we have to “turn down” opportunities, but as Joshua mentions, with so many opportunities for learning and growth, it is crucial to make decisions based on what will have the most positive impact for all involved. I am a huge advocate for creating “win-wins” as it is in this synergy that true connection, authenticity, and power lies.

#synergy

#learning

#growth

#impact

I loved this interview. Joshua is one of my favorite people in the hospitality industry. His sincerity, heart centeredness, openness, as well as true authenticity are leadership qualities that deserve much respect! Very grateful Joshua took the time to do this interview.

#leading from within

#heart centeredness

#gratitude

It is my hope that those reading this interview can take away something that may resonate with them and their own journey, so they may go deeper into living their best, most authentic heart centered life!

#authenticity

#divine alignment

For more information on Hotel Valley Ho and Mountain Shadows, please visit:

https://www.hotelvalleyho.com

https://www.mountainshadows.com