The Bad:
I saw this video yesterday and I had to share it with you as a warning. This is why I choose USANA Health Sciences as my supplement company of choice. I toured their facility and saw first hand the way they manufacture their supplements. It's a good feeling to know that they voluntarily take so many precautions during the process. Check out the following video to see why I trust my health to USANA.
The Good:
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
My Innovative Results Workout Video!!!
I highly recommend checking out my friend's gym in Costa Mesa http://innovative-results.com
Go get your butt kicked and feel good about it!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
The only Supplement Company I Trust - USANA Health Sciences
I decided to take USANA supplements for many reasons and this video tells why. I've personally toured the facility and can tell you that USANA stands behind their products quality and potency. USANA supplements are the only supplements I recommend to my clients because of the difference they've made in my health. Contact me for samples. tvidal@usana.com
Monday, August 23, 2010
The Art of Self-Assertion
This is an awesome read that I found online today. With a little imagination and rewording, it can be applied to other areas of your life...not just at work.
************************
The Art of Self-Assertion
from WorkAwesome by Sarah Nagel
If you ask, you shall receive. It sounds simplistic, but it works in all kinds of ways.
If you’d like to make a sale, ask your customer if they’re ready to buy.
If you’d like to work on a new project, ask if you can get involved.
If you want a raise, ask for one.
Asking for what you want is often the quickest way to get it. Self-assertion allows you to take control, be proactive and grow as a person. Instead of seeing a world of limits, you see a world of opportunities. Instead of living small, you live large.
Being assertive is a critical skill, but many people are hesitant to try. If this is something you struggle with, read on for some helpful tips.
Excuses Won’t Get You Anywhere
There are so many excuses that keep us from being assertive. Speaking up can be scary, especially if you are shy. You really don’t want to bother anyone. And you may assume you will just get no for an answer anyway. You would rather not even try. Or you may be so bogged down by the day-to-day grind that you lack the energy to even think about what you really want and how to ask for it.
For many people, it may be much more comfortable to take on the role of the martyr, working away diligently, never asking for more. As long as you keep your head down, work hard, and play nice, you will be showered with rewards from on high, right? Not exactly.
The truth is that other people are busy. They may like you a lot. They may even want to help you, but they can’t read your mind. They aren’t going to sit around brainstorming ways to help you advance your personal goals. If you want to get ahead, you have to make it happen. You have to give yourself a chance.
Be Solution-Oriented
By taking the initiative, you can make important changes in your work environment. Instead of putting up with problems, you offer solutions. You make your job work for you.
This is especially helpful for people who find their jobs to be increasingly boring or unfulfilling. You could get stuck in a rut, become resentful, and start daydreaming about finding a new career, or you could brainstorm ways to expand your current role. Is another department overwhelmed and in need of extra help? Is there a promotion opening up? Could you propose a new project?
It’s important to allow yourself to think outside the box and avoid self-imposed limits. You just might have the perfect answer.
Why It’s Worth It
Just asking for what you want can change your whole working experience. You could get an exciting project that breathes fresh life into your job. You could get a promotion or a raise. You could make new connections, strike up friendships or learn valuable skills.
The best part is that you get empowered in the process. You realize it’s not so scary, after-all. You gain more confidence. You realize that you can make a difference.
It’s Not All About Taking
People tend to confuse assertiveness with aggressiveness. But they aren’t the same thing. You don’t have to throw elbows, step on toes, or make a spectacle to get what you want.
It doesn’t have to be a gimmee-gimmee situation. It’s all in your approach. The key is to find a way to meet someone else’s needs at the same time. Instead of pushing your own agenda, find a way to tie it to someone else’s. That way everyone benefits, and you give others a reason to say yes. With a little imagination, you can create a win-win situation and open the door to new opportunities – for yourself and others.
Get Over Your Fear of Rejection
If you are still hesitant, just start small. Find one thing that could make a real difference to you, and then ask for it. Becoming assertive is like working a muscle. The more you do it, the stronger you become.
If things don’t work out as you hoped, remember that failure is not a sign of weakness. It isn’t a sign that something is wrong with you. Failure just shows your pushing the boundaries.
Failure is not the end of the story. It is the beginning. When something is hard and you are really struggling with it, that is the point when you really begin to grow and learn. Stick with it. Have patience with yourself. Don’t give up.
Michael Jordan once said,
“I failed over and over in my life and that is why I succeed.”
Isn’t that the story of humanity right there? We are never going to be perfect, but if we have courage and determination and confidence, we can succeed.
************************
The Art of Self-Assertion
from WorkAwesome by Sarah Nagel
If you ask, you shall receive. It sounds simplistic, but it works in all kinds of ways.
If you’d like to make a sale, ask your customer if they’re ready to buy.
If you’d like to work on a new project, ask if you can get involved.
If you want a raise, ask for one.
Asking for what you want is often the quickest way to get it. Self-assertion allows you to take control, be proactive and grow as a person. Instead of seeing a world of limits, you see a world of opportunities. Instead of living small, you live large.
Being assertive is a critical skill, but many people are hesitant to try. If this is something you struggle with, read on for some helpful tips.
Excuses Won’t Get You Anywhere
There are so many excuses that keep us from being assertive. Speaking up can be scary, especially if you are shy. You really don’t want to bother anyone. And you may assume you will just get no for an answer anyway. You would rather not even try. Or you may be so bogged down by the day-to-day grind that you lack the energy to even think about what you really want and how to ask for it.
For many people, it may be much more comfortable to take on the role of the martyr, working away diligently, never asking for more. As long as you keep your head down, work hard, and play nice, you will be showered with rewards from on high, right? Not exactly.
The truth is that other people are busy. They may like you a lot. They may even want to help you, but they can’t read your mind. They aren’t going to sit around brainstorming ways to help you advance your personal goals. If you want to get ahead, you have to make it happen. You have to give yourself a chance.
Be Solution-Oriented
By taking the initiative, you can make important changes in your work environment. Instead of putting up with problems, you offer solutions. You make your job work for you.
This is especially helpful for people who find their jobs to be increasingly boring or unfulfilling. You could get stuck in a rut, become resentful, and start daydreaming about finding a new career, or you could brainstorm ways to expand your current role. Is another department overwhelmed and in need of extra help? Is there a promotion opening up? Could you propose a new project?
It’s important to allow yourself to think outside the box and avoid self-imposed limits. You just might have the perfect answer.
Why It’s Worth It
Just asking for what you want can change your whole working experience. You could get an exciting project that breathes fresh life into your job. You could get a promotion or a raise. You could make new connections, strike up friendships or learn valuable skills.
The best part is that you get empowered in the process. You realize it’s not so scary, after-all. You gain more confidence. You realize that you can make a difference.
It’s Not All About Taking
People tend to confuse assertiveness with aggressiveness. But they aren’t the same thing. You don’t have to throw elbows, step on toes, or make a spectacle to get what you want.
It doesn’t have to be a gimmee-gimmee situation. It’s all in your approach. The key is to find a way to meet someone else’s needs at the same time. Instead of pushing your own agenda, find a way to tie it to someone else’s. That way everyone benefits, and you give others a reason to say yes. With a little imagination, you can create a win-win situation and open the door to new opportunities – for yourself and others.
Get Over Your Fear of Rejection
If you are still hesitant, just start small. Find one thing that could make a real difference to you, and then ask for it. Becoming assertive is like working a muscle. The more you do it, the stronger you become.
If things don’t work out as you hoped, remember that failure is not a sign of weakness. It isn’t a sign that something is wrong with you. Failure just shows your pushing the boundaries.
Failure is not the end of the story. It is the beginning. When something is hard and you are really struggling with it, that is the point when you really begin to grow and learn. Stick with it. Have patience with yourself. Don’t give up.
Michael Jordan once said,
“I failed over and over in my life and that is why I succeed.”
Isn’t that the story of humanity right there? We are never going to be perfect, but if we have courage and determination and confidence, we can succeed.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Carrot Salad with Cumin and Garlic*
This can be served warm or cold. We had it warm, and it's quite yummy! Use older carrots, which have a better taste than young ones.
5 large carrots
4 Tbsp
4 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp
Salt and black pepper
juice of 1/2 lemon
Peel or wash and scrape the carrots and trim off the tops and tails. Cut them in quarters lengthwise and then cut each quarter in half to produce sticks. Boil in salted water for 10 to 15 minutes, until tender but not too soft, then drain.
In a large skillet, heat the oil and put in the carrots, garlic, cumin and some salt and pepper. Saute on a medium-high heat, stirring and turning the carrots over, until the garlic just begins to color.
Sprinkle with lemon juice and serve cold.
*taken from "Arabesque: A Taste of Morocco, Turkey and Lebanon" by Claudia Roden
5 large carrots
4 Tbsp
4 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp
Salt and black pepper
juice of 1/2 lemon
Peel or wash and scrape the carrots and trim off the tops and tails. Cut them in quarters lengthwise and then cut each quarter in half to produce sticks. Boil in salted water for 10 to 15 minutes, until tender but not too soft, then drain.
In a large skillet, heat the oil and put in the carrots, garlic, cumin and some salt and pepper. Saute on a medium-high heat, stirring and turning the carrots over, until the garlic just begins to color.
Sprinkle with lemon juice and serve cold.
*taken from "Arabesque: A Taste of Morocco, Turkey and Lebanon" by Claudia Roden
Monday, August 9, 2010
RESET day 5 (Final)
I will be continuing with the transform phase of the RESET program. My goal is to get down to 170 lbs.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
RESET day 4
Today is my last day and I'll be taking one last photo tonight and posting it.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
RESET day 3
2 more days to go.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
RESET day 2
Today my exercise routine consisted of an upper body plate workout and 45 minutes in the pool doing laps. I feel AWESOME!
I will be back tomorrow evening for another post.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
RESET day 1
I just ate my vegetable dinner before jumping on the scale and have lost 1.2 lbs weighing in at 182.4 lbs
I'll have another post for tomorrow night at 9.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Let the RESET begin!
I will keep you all posted every evening at 9 pm PST.
Friday, July 23, 2010
USANA 5-day RESET
Some of you may be wondering why I am doing a cleanse. For me, it's not so much a "losing weight" thing. I view the human body as the most important machine/vehicle we have. Just like a vehicle that needs an oil change at certain intervals to keep it running smoothly, we need to flush our system or change our oil every so often to keep our body running clean and at optimal levels.
All my training clients that have done a RESET have lost anywhere from 5lbs to 12lbs during the 5-days and the weight loss wasn't the only benefit. It helped them to get rid of cravings and gave them a much needed energy boost.
Check back to see my RESET experience and see my USANA blog or website for more information.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Secret BBQ tips for the 4th of July
Summertime barbeque’s are often loaded with mystery side salads and fatty cuts of beef. To avoid gaining back all the weight you've lost, follow these BBQ rules.
1. Beware of Ketchup and other condiments containing high fructose corn syrup.
Buy Ketchup that is labeled organic. Make sure to read the ingredients to be sure it is not made with HFCS. The chemical often added to soft drinks, cookies, and cereal is also a major ingredient for some favorite condiments, including Heinz Ketchup. Brands like, Organicville have a delicious ketchup that will wow your guests.
2. Instead of having a burger made with beef, try a bison or veggie burger
Burgers are like a mystery meat. No one really knows where it came from and how much fat it contains. Stay smart by trying a bison burger. It’s lower in fat and typically farmed on a small ranch so you know it’s been grass fed and treated well. Not an option? A veggie burger is always a safe bet. Try Veggie Patch’s Garlic Portabello Mushroom Burger for a meatier patty that tastes great! You will save yourself at least 100 calories.
3. Don’t sabotage your meat with processed white buns!
If you are hosting the BBQ, opt for 100% whole wheat buns. Know a guest who need gluten-free options? Indulge them in Ezekial sprouted grain hamburger buns for a gluten-free, option with added protein. Lastly, go bunless with two slices of iceburg lettuce. If none of the above are options, try eating one half of the bun, or scoop it out like a bagel.
4. Spice up grilled chicken or fish without piling on calories!
BBQ sauce can be loaded with sugar. Choose a brand like Mrs Renfro’s that has only 35 calories per 2 tablespoons. Better yet, check out their variety of fruit salsa’s to top freshly grilled fish. Another option? Try a chutney for a sweater glaze that requires no marinade sitting time. Try School House Kitchen’s Bardshar Chutney for a versatile BBQ companion.
5. Skip the mayo drenched salad, and try some grilled veggies!
Macaroni salad, potato salad, and pasta salad are usually a mystery to all guests except the one who made the dish. Avoid the danger and stick to some grilled veggies or corn. If you are allowed to bring a side, enlighten your guests by bringing a healthier version of one of the above. Typically one cup of potato salad has over 300 calories.
Hope this helps and enjoy your 4th of July.
Tom
1. Beware of Ketchup and other condiments containing high fructose corn syrup.
Buy Ketchup that is labeled organic. Make sure to read the ingredients to be sure it is not made with HFCS. The chemical often added to soft drinks, cookies, and cereal is also a major ingredient for some favorite condiments, including Heinz Ketchup. Brands like, Organicville have a delicious ketchup that will wow your guests.
2. Instead of having a burger made with beef, try a bison or veggie burger
Burgers are like a mystery meat. No one really knows where it came from and how much fat it contains. Stay smart by trying a bison burger. It’s lower in fat and typically farmed on a small ranch so you know it’s been grass fed and treated well. Not an option? A veggie burger is always a safe bet. Try Veggie Patch’s Garlic Portabello Mushroom Burger for a meatier patty that tastes great! You will save yourself at least 100 calories.
3. Don’t sabotage your meat with processed white buns!
If you are hosting the BBQ, opt for 100% whole wheat buns. Know a guest who need gluten-free options? Indulge them in Ezekial sprouted grain hamburger buns for a gluten-free, option with added protein. Lastly, go bunless with two slices of iceburg lettuce. If none of the above are options, try eating one half of the bun, or scoop it out like a bagel.
4. Spice up grilled chicken or fish without piling on calories!
BBQ sauce can be loaded with sugar. Choose a brand like Mrs Renfro’s that has only 35 calories per 2 tablespoons. Better yet, check out their variety of fruit salsa’s to top freshly grilled fish. Another option? Try a chutney for a sweater glaze that requires no marinade sitting time. Try School House Kitchen’s Bardshar Chutney for a versatile BBQ companion.
5. Skip the mayo drenched salad, and try some grilled veggies!
Macaroni salad, potato salad, and pasta salad are usually a mystery to all guests except the one who made the dish. Avoid the danger and stick to some grilled veggies or corn. If you are allowed to bring a side, enlighten your guests by bringing a healthier version of one of the above. Typically one cup of potato salad has over 300 calories.
Hope this helps and enjoy your 4th of July.
Tom
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Uphill Running is AWESOME!
If you're looking for a fast way to get your heart pumping, try uphill running. Short burst of sprints that burn some major calories. Here's a short clip of what I'm currently doing Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings. Enjoy!
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