How to think about Happiness when you’re Unhappy

I originally had a different blog planned for today, but the idea of happiness came up a lot in my groups lately. I think we have the misguided idea that we have to be happy all the time or push down uncomfortable feelings. The opposite is actually true. Instead of aiming for happiness, we should be moving towards wholeness. Check out today’s blog to hear a story about when I was unhappy and the question that got me through it!

https://youtu.be/jh8lDNfj_Cs

Advice I got from my Favorite Song on How to be Open Minded

I’m obsessed with music and the other day as I meditated to my favorite song (PS while we’re at it… May I also suggest my Fall Meditation playlist! Get your sit on!) I realized it was giving me the best advice about being open. Being open can be scary. We can be nervous about what people think or failing, but it’s actually such an amazing thing. Check out the video for advice on ways we close ourselves off and how to open ourselves up!

https://youtu.be/k08FnDcnQt0

How to Create a Modern Mentor Survival Kit

I talk a lot about setting yourself up to win, which means doing things for yourself now that can eliminate stress later. Part of getting rid of unnecessary anxiety is having the things I need… when I actually need them. Today I’m sharing what my survival kit looks like. Being prepared makes me happy!

1. Hairbrush
- This mini hairbrush is perfect for a really quick hair touch up in between activities.
2. Stain Remover Stick/Pad
- Nothing makes me feel less confident than knowing I have a stain on my clothes.
3. Tata Harper Aromatic Stress Treatment
- My bff works for Tata Harper and when I told her how running around makes me stressed she recommended this product. Just a dab on my wrists/neck and it helps me calm down.
4. iPhone Charger
- My phone dies super fast and I make sure I always have a charger so I never get stranded somewhere without battery. Also, I was VERY pleased to have charged my phone when my car broke down on the highway last year!
5. Stila Eyeliner
- This is my favorite liquid eyeliner. I never wear eyeshadow and just go right for a winged eyeliner. During the day, I need touch ups though so I always have it with me.
6. Advil
- I get unexpected migraine headaches so these are a must.
7. Band.do Highlighters
- Making my to-do lists colorful makes me SO HAPPY. Ban.do is a super fun company and I love browsing their website.
8. Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- I’m not a big fan of gum because of the fake sugar in it, so I keep a travel size toothbrush with me.
9. Tampons
- You never want to be caught without a tampon when you need one.
10. Black Pen
- I’m always writing things down, taking student notes, or brainstorming my next big idea. I also have a favorite pen and this is it.
11. Modern Mentor Hair Ties
- I always have two! One for my hair and another to give away to a friend.
12. #MeToo Tattoos
- To use when I need a reminder that everyone all goes through the same things. Also the most fun to use when getting together with friends. #instagram
13. Nail Polish Remover
- I hate when my nails are chipped and this takes it off so fast!
14. Modern Mentor Card
- You never know when you want to keep in touch with someone. There are so many websites where you can get cute cards printed with your email address and phone number. I totally recommend it. You never know who you’re going to meet!
15. Burt’s Bees Facial Wipes
- These are the best. I use them after dance and yoga to keep my skin clean! Also good after you eat something messy… #tacos.
16. Headphones
- If you follow me on Spotify, you already know I’m obsessed with music. Headphones are probably the most important item to me. I never know when I’m going to NEED to listen to my favorite song.
17. Bobby pins
- To keep my hair and my headphones untangled.

Why being Nervous is Awesome

The other day I was super nervous for a meeting and my teacher Amy gave me the best advice. Being nervous is actually like a thumbs up. Find out why in today’s blog. BONUS: I’m also sharing my ultimate tip for managing nerves!

https://youtu.be/Z8t73EQDQKQ

How to be Interesting

Sometimes we think being cool means liking what other people like. This is TOTALLY not the case and causes a lot of unnecessary hard work. Being interesting is a lot easier than you think. Check out this video for my tips on being an interesting girl. Also this advice is especially good as you head into the first day of school! XOXO

https://youtu.be/l_6MA6AnzvY

Modern Mentor Program Trailer!

I’m so excited to share a video I made with my students back in April. I wanted to take away any nerves when it came to starting the Modern Mentor Program by having the girls be the ones to explain it. If you’ve ever been apprehensive about trying a group I hope this helps! Thank you to all the girls who participated and big thanks to LoYa in Summit for use of their BEAUTIFUL space! I feel very grateful!

Modern Mentor Program Trailer from Maggie DiPasquale on Vimeo.

What to do when a Friend Acts Differently in a Group than she does One-on-One

This question is a total #MeToo moment because I always have girls reaching out on the topic. You have a friend that you love to spend time with one-on-one, but the second you’re in a group, the dynamic changes. Maybe she’s trying to impress boys or puts a lot of emphasis on being popular, but either way it doesn’t make you feel good. Check out the video to learn how to handle this situation because I have definitely been there!

https://youtu.be/XPJzKL4nix8

How to Create Happy Body Habits

Many of my students have come to me with summer body stress and I’ve been mentoring girls towards creating HAPPY habits. Happiness is a choice and defaulting to self-love and acceptance takes practice, especially when it comes to loving what you look like. You were given your body to share your gifts; not as a vehicle to beat yourself up. Whether you’re aware of it or not, we’ve all created body habits that we do without even being mindful if they’re helping us or holding us back. In order to feel positive about your looks, you’ve got to look at the patterns you’ve formed that’s why we’re focusing on creating happy habits. Click here for more.

How to Handle Criticism

Not everyone is going to like you or the things you do. This is a tough lesson, especially for me! When someone has a negative opinion it can hurt. I’ve definitely spent my fair share of time being upset over it. Criticism is unavoidable, but it can be a great way to get to know yourself better. Check out the video to hear my personal story of how I handled criticism and what you can do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLv3sQ1qGnM

How to be the Life of the Party

It’s a common misconception that being the life of the party means being the most outgoing person in the room. It’s not about what you look like or who can’t take their eyes off of you, it’s all about the energy you bring you into the room. Standing out in a positive way means glittering from the inside out. Got somewhere to be? Try these quick tips for lighting up a room!