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I have a confession…

Monday I proposed that we dedicate 21 days to establish new habits/behavior that would have a positive affect on our inner beauty. If you recall, I emphasized that one slip up resets the 21 days. I chose to make 4 changes. Unfortunately, I have slipped up on 2 of them. The other two haven’t been tested yet. They are pretty much a package deal so I’m back to Day 1 of my 21 day challenge!

The key to this challenge is to make a conscious effort. The only way I’m going to be successful at this is if I become more mindful of my behavior. I must be proactive not reactive (if that’s a word). This exercise is applicable to all areas of life, making it personal is just practice for applying it to more critical situations.

Today is my last Day 1! No excuses!

Timeless Treasure: Shiseido

Shiseido Company, Limited is a 137 year old timeless treasure founded in Tokyo by Yushin Fukuhara (a former pharmacist). The original objective of this family owned company was to be Japan’s first western-style pharmacy. The company began to dabble in cosmetics during the transition of the japanese feminine appearance; while some women still wore the ancient makeup (white faces and stylized eyebrows) many were making the transition to the look of western women (the way we wear makeup as Americans).

Shiseido expanded the scope of its business by offering franchise opportunities outside of the normal reach of the company. Its early success was due largely to customer loyalty which was encouraged by high quality products and personalized service. Similar to the way the Tokyo store was tailored to a specific market, the franchises were also. The franchise stores also began to offer mail-order services. The company had such a solid foundation that it was not rocked by World Wars or Depression.

Overtime, of course, the company image became dated. The loyal customers grew old and the new youthful generation of consumers were not wowed by the Shiseido brand. The response was to diversify the brand and its stores. While some stores carried cosmetics, other stores carried youth fashions, home goods, or fitness aids. The company also introduced a line tailored to the needs of its older customers. Diversification has proven to be the key to this company’s staying power because it can target several markets simultaneously.

This multi-faceted company has been global for decades and continues to hold a top spot among international cosmetic companies. I’m sure this company will survive for centuries to come.

Maintenance Monday: 21 Days

“Beauty is how you feel inside, and it reflects in your eyes. It is not something physical”
–Sophia Loren

I agree with Sophia…. except I must admit oftentimes looking good on the outside helps me feel better inside. That pretty much explains why I am so passionate about personal care products. I know I’ve talked alot about perfecting that inner beauty. I think it is a task that is never quite complete. You can always do more to make yourself a better person; that is beautiful in itself. A big part of being successful in life is having goals… why not start from within?

Decide today on 3 to 5 things that you think would contribute to the growth of your personality, intellect and self esteem. I read in If It Is To Be, It’s Up To Me by Thomas B. Smith that it takes 21 days to break bad habits and establish new ones. [My parents taught this principle to me first but I wanted to give you a solid reference.] So let today be the start of your 21 days. Concentrate on the things you decided you want to work on and do your very best. Don’t slip up!!! If you get off track you have to start the 21 days all over. Think of it like a game and give yourself a positive incentive… when you succeed [notice I said WHEN, positive thinking goes a long way] reward yourself with a new pair of shoes or a trip to Coldstone Creamery (yummmm!)… anything to say to yourself “Well done honey!”

I’m 100% sure you will find this to be a productive excercise. I’d love to hear the success stories! Mark your calendars and begin your 21 day journey.

Timeless Treasure: AMBI


Now owned by Johnson & Johnson, this 43 year old cosmetic line has passed the test of time. AMBI skincare products are made specifically for (multi-cultural) women of color. The products are designed to eliminate dark imperfections, even skin-tone and improve the overall health of pigmented skin. The main products– fade creams and beauty bars– were staples in the African American household for decades.

When Johnson & Johnson bought the brand in 2004, they began the 2 year quest to update the product image and improve the product formula. The key to success was to conduct an extensive survey of the target market so that the re-formulated products addressed specific issues. Based on this study, AMBI emerged with three successful products. To further increase the recognition and success of the brand, Johnson & Johnson reshelved the AMBI products so that they are now situated among the general skin care products as opposed to ethnic products.

I think the biggest contributor to the AMBI brand success is their dedication to educating the consumer and being a ‘skin care advisor’. AMBI travels to various multi-cultural family oriented events with a crew of aestheticians to give one on one skin care consultations. Let’s give a hand to a company that is hands on!

Techie Tuesday Postponed

I was in the streets yesterday trying to take care of some necessary business so I totally missed posting on Techie Tuesday. My plan is to get it done this weekend so that you still get your weekly dose of cosmetic science.

I am glad to report that the company name is now officially registered and website building will begin shortly. The company is set to launch April 1, 2009 and I am beyond excited about it! I’m hoping to be able to throw a really nice launch party. I’m working out the particulars as we speak.

Thank you for all the love and support I have received in the process of making my dreams reality.

Maintenance Monday: Its All About Attitude!

We’ve all heard this before… attitude is everything. But what does that really mean? Take an inventory of events and circumstances in your life. What was your attitude before and after those occurred? Chances are when something positive happens a positive attitude was present before and after. The same applies to negative situations. I have found that when I look for the positive in undesirable circumstances, I get positive outcomes. A lot of times it is easier said than done. It may take me quite awhile to see what good can come from unfortunate events. But, no matter what, I’m always actively looking for a way to turn the situation around.

Because of my positive outlook (attitude), I have reached monumental heights in my life. I have achieved so many of my goals and learned from every experience, good or bad. I have written all of this in hopes of being an inspiration to other women. Looking beautiful is great… and it makes an impact on how you feel. But to feel even better about yourself you have to indulge in positive things. Making the commitment to use every moment in your life for the betterment of yourself will go a long way in making your dreams come true. Decide what you want out of life and start taking steps toward those goals. There will always be bumps in the road, but embrace them and make the most of their outcome. When you feel good about yourself, it irradiates from the inside out. How beautiful is that?!