Vol. 1, Issue 4                                                                                                                 July 1, 2007

Why Image-on-the-1's? Because your image is your most powerful communication tool.

We know your image matters to you and your image matters to us. You've got questions and we've got answers. So, on the 1st, 11th and 21st of each month, we'd like to answer your questions and provide you with tips and tools that you can really use.

Stay tuned for on-going information that will help you save time, money and energy and guarantee that you present your very best self to your world everyday.

I Can't Afford to Take a Vacation

The truth is you can't afford not to.
I once had a boss who was entitled to six weeks vacation and ten health days each year. She was often heard boasting about how she never took her vacation. And, she often came to work so ill that the rest of us were out sick for the week to follow. Nevertheless, she is not alone in these preposterous practices.

So, if you think not taking time off is good for your image, think again.

Whether you work for yourself or for someone else, your overall well-being, self-esteem and self image are bolstered and deeply supported by time away from your daily grind. Even if all you do is close your door behind you and stay in your pj's watching old movies for a week, take yourself out of your daily routine and the stress of "doing" all the time. Learn to "be" with yourself and/or others in a new place, a new space, a new way. You'll see very quickly that the rewards are yours and the attitudes of others will improve just from knowing that you actually have a life outside your work.

Great getaways need not be long or expensive. However, getting away on a business day is a luxury. It feels special and just a little naughty. Getting away on a weekend day, well, anyone can do that. Here are some ideas for image-adjusting getaways Monday through Friday.

-- Look for a day spa in your area. Get a massage, a facial or an entire day of indulgence. Schedule lunch with a friend or that book you've been waiting to read. Even just one day doing something only for you will shift your energy and can feel like a week away.
-- Book yourself into a local hotel and become a tourist in your own town. Order room service, have breakfast in bed, go for a swim or a steam, take a nap or a tour of local historic spots. Whether you leave the room or not, let someone else make the bed, worry about the laundry, and deliver your meals. After a few days you cant help but feel like new.
-- Get out of town, find a B&B or a local inn. Have breakfast at the diner, take a walk or rent a bicycle, take in the sites, breathe in some fresh air and let out the stresses of everyday.

Amazingly, the world keeps spinning even while you're away. By changing the pace and letting go, you create the time and space for good things to come. Appreciate yourself, be good to yourself and you'll see that others will do the same.

Order your personal copy of
Image Matters!
First Steps on the Journey to Your Best Self
by Lauren Solomon

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E-Image Inquiry
I never know what to take and always pack too much...help!

In general, I pack using the Rule of Two: 2 long bottoms, 2 short bottoms, 2 sleeveless tops, 2 short-sleeved tops, 2 long-sleeved tops, 2 sweaters or warmer pieces and 2 pair of shoes. Using 2 neutral basic colors on the bottom allows you to use some "pop" colors on top and layer pieces for greatest wearability. All the pieces should mix-and-match easily and allow you to go from day to evening all in one carry-on bag. Happy trails!