3 Life Lessons that Translate to Marketing Concepts

1. Start With Yourself

We have all seen Gandhi's “Be the change....” posted as a meme on every inspirational page ever. There is a reason for this fact, it is great advice. It is pithy and practical. No one can argue the point. This concept also works in relationships, in career, and yes, in marketing. Just like you cannot attract the perfect mate or friend until you are happy with where you are in life, you also cannot attract the perfect business client until you develop a voice, brand, and professional image that you love authentically. This may seem obvious, but then why is their so much marketing content out there that falls flat on this point? 80% of the time, generic-feeling marketing content is caused by a company failing to prioritize marketing that reflects the founding mission and values.

2. You Can't Win'em All

When life inevitably teaches you what it feels like to start from a place of self knowledge, two things happen. The first is that certain people in your life fade away or abruptly break it off with you completely. The second is that people who are in a similar place of self-empowerment enter your life and stay. The same is true in marketing, and that is why so many businesses are afraid of true authenticity. These businesses are afraid of step one. They fear that when the people who don't align with the mission fall away, there will be no one left. Even though these customers are usually the kind that cause heartache (or at least neck pain), it is hard to trust that your perfect people will be waiting on the other side of this purge. Trust me, all people who experience this process personally or professionally with tell you, your perfect friends, lover, and clients are out there ready for you to tell them who you are.

3. You Don't Have to Jump Off the Cliff

I can hear my mother's voice now. It's so obvious that just because the other kids are jumping off a cliff, I don't have to. Then why do so many businesses still jump off all these marketing cliffs? I am not saying a businesses shouldn't pay attention to marketing trends, but trend examination should come from a place of reflection on appropriate voice for a brand. The latest example I have seen is Facebook Live. Every marketing trend tracker is talking about Facebook Live, and people are using it. Way. Too. Much. Before you start making videos of yourself talking about your business every single day, ask yourself, is this resonant with your audience. So many of these Facebook Live posts would be so much more appropriate on a platform like a business YouTube channel where the presentation is a little more subtle and respectful of the personal nature and urgency of Facebook. So before you jump off the next marketing trend cliff, ask yourself if it truly reflects your brand. Ignore the fear mongering click-bait that says “If you aren't using this new marketing trend, you are missing sales!”

xoxo,

Megan Hayne

Starting Small

I finally did it!
I have been saying that I am going to grow an avocado tree from seed for ages.
It is a simple act in theory.
I have the instructions.
I don't know what took me so long.
None of that matters now.
A step in the right direction.

xoxo,

Megan Hayne

Neon Green Pasta Delight

I have a confession to make. I kind of don't like green salads. I don't hate salads, but they are not usually something I want to eat. My husband eats way more salad than me. I believe in the health benefits of eating greens however, and greens can be pretty tasty when added to non-salad dishes. As an avid Pinterester, I am always looking for recipe ideas that allow me to eat more greens without having to choke down salads all the time. A while ago, I found a recipe for kale pesto which lead me to a giant 'aha' moment. I can just put my salad in the blender and pour it on pasta! Mix those greens with lemon, tons of garlic, and a little Parmesan and it is a win every time. The greens are still raw, so I get those health benefits. It is also quick. The meal takes me about 15 minutes to make. I can make a ton at a time, and it tastes good hot or cold. Win, win, win!!!

You know you are healthy when your food is naturally neon green. Am I right? There is a whole bag of salad in last night's dinner.

xoxo,

Megan Hayne

Love Yourself, Today and Everyday

Holidays, such as this one that takes place on February 14th, can cause joy. This type of holiday can also make people feel loss, loneliness, and sadness. Although I have been with my significant other for 6 years, I like to make Valentine's Day about self-love. Paradoxically, that is a more inclusive interpretation of the holiday.

How I am celebrating:

xoxo,

Megan Hayne

For the Love of Skincare

As most of my friends and family know, I am a skincare fanatic. It has made a big difference in my life in terms of dealing with unpleasant skin issues, but it is also just a way I cultivate self love and compassion when I need it the most. Many friends and family members have hit me up for skincare advice over the years, and I am good source from my own dealings with all the sensitive skin issues I have had. Not to mention the fact that I have shelled out some serious moo-lah trying a million products. I always try to keep it natural, especially with makeup (it stays on your face ALL day) but efficacy is my bottom line. I have a few core all natural brands that I use all the time including 100% pure and juice beauty. However, Korean Skincare has been the biggest game changer for me. I discovered this Korean online shop called memebox, and I just cannot shut up about all the offerings at super low prices (and I am girl willing to splurge in this department). Some Korean beauty must tries: sheet masks, anything with snail mucin (I'm serious), fermented products (probiotics, baby), and 7 seconds morning sheets. If you want to try this company, feel free to use my link above to get a first-timer discount (I'm a memebox points member obviously).

Here's to make-up free days whenever I'm overtired and rushed to get out the door!

xoxo,

Megan Hayne

Meal Planning

Ever since I left NYC for this less urban life, I have been really good about meal planning. I like to use this cute little refrigerator magnet shopping pad to keep track of kitchen needs throughout the week. My husband and I have both been noticing the health benefits from simply eating out less. Pinterest is my best friend when it comes to meal plans, and I love to cook. The hardest part by far is the actual trip to the grocery store. For some reason there are a million great grocery stores in Vancouver, WA, and they are all busy all the time. I find that if I buy a special treat for myself, it sweetens the experience, and makes me more inclined (This is also an important marketing concept. See The Power of Habit).

Despite my health nut past, I have always been a major caffeine addict. These sweet little organic energy drinks are my once-a-week grocery store treat. They taste so good, and give me extra energy to put all of this away!

xoxo,



Megan Hayne