Blogs

Sisters & Friends Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard is the perfect opportunity to experience a wonderful place while not spending a lot of money. The air is fresh, the ocean is calming and pace is slow. If you are interested in being the focus of a week-long vacation where you have little to do except indulge yourself in rest and relaxation then join women from around the country for Sisters and Friends Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard September 10-17 or 17-23 (or both weeks!).

Visit www.sistersandfriends.com or text/call (412) 400-8809.

No additional cost to showcase your products and services or lead a roundtable discussion. See what others have to say: "Met inspiring women, I liked having meals at different houses…going to sessions on journaling and on creating the life you want…affordable price of the trip…the team was awesome!” "Black women are phenomenal.” "It's a guilt-free, no drama vacation!"

We stay in vintage Vineyard homes and share rooms with a sisters and/or friends. By the way, if you want hi-end luxury, this is not it. If you want serenity and no stress you will find it with this group on the Vineyard. This time of year marks the end of the season which means it is quiet and serene. Non-binding agenda days include early morning swim (or sleeping in), walks along the beach, line dancing, planned and spontaneous workshops and presentations that inspire and uplift and fun nights laughing, playing games enjoying good meals and beverages.

Host Connie Portis and her team are passionate about helping women feel comfortable. Come with friends or come alone! For 2017 Sisters & Friends Getaway information - www.sistersandfriends.com text/call (412) 400-8809.

Don't sabotage your success. Look in the mirror and smile. You will see someone else who thinks you are great smiling back at you. Wink call that person by name and say, "You are the greatest! You are a winner, you are the best!" Here are tips to Wake up a Winner everyday http://bit.ly/14kfUt0

1. Politics-Talking about politics is always a touch subject.  Some people are very passionate about their political views.  If you don’t agree with something that has been said, just acknowledge what has been shared by nodding .
2. Health-People really do not what to hear about your latest surgery.  Sharing too much bad news can bring the conversation down.
3. The cost of things-Ever been around someone and all the talked about was how much they paid for their car, house.  Don’t ask and don’t tell.
4. Personal question-Don’t ask questions such as “How much money do you make?” Or “When do you plan to have children.”
5. Don’t gossip-When you gossip you destroy your creditability and trust with the group.
6. Your boss/or job-You never know who knows whom. 
7. Off-color jokes-I tried to justify this by saying, “If you are with close friends and you all share the same views; however, I cannot.  It is never acceptable to joke about another’s weight, religion, racial heritage, physical limitations, or make any remark that will hurt another person.
8. Doom and gloom-People hear enough bad news, all one has to do is turn on the TV.  If you want to draw people to you, be happy and optimistic.

So, what can you do to avoid putting your foot in your mouth?

Learn the art of small talk.

   Definition of small talk:  n. polite conversation about matter of little Importance, especially between people who do not know each other well. Encarta World Dictionary.

• Be well informed-Read the news paper, Keep up with current events, locally, nationally, and internationally. Watch interesting documentaries on TV.
• Don’t interrupt-Interrupting a person’s conversation is very rude.  People could see you as being argumentative.
• Focus on the other person-Use the others persons name during the convection.  Pay attention to what they say, the other person will say something you can comment on.  They may share their love for a certain sport, or a movie or book they’ve read. 
• Maintain eye contact-Eye contact shows you are interested in what the other person is saying.
• Ask for their advice-Keep the topic light.  You may ask their advice or opinion on a new restaurant, or play.
• Don’t give advice-Give advice only if the other person asks.  It is best to hold off giving advice on personal matters, even if asked.
• Think before you speak-There have been more times than I care to admit, when I should have not said one word. 
• Always apologize if you say the wrong thing, or even is what you have said is misinterpreted.  People will respect you more.