Stepping out of Your Comfort Zone and Embracing Change with special guest, MJ Racadio (May 25, 2015)

   

Leilanie Arellano, MSN (Leadership and Health Education), BSN, PCCN Founder Inspirational Alignment Advocacy Foundation, Inc.

Leilanie is currently enrolled at University of Phoenix pursuing Doctorate Degree in Health Administration

Change is constant and it is essential to life to reconfigure and broaden our horizons for growth, increased productivity and pursue sorts of opportunities. Stepping out of our comfort zone can be challenging and adaptive responses must be created to achieve better results. Our willingness to embrace change and take ownership to expand boundaries can make a high impact to achieve desired outcomes.

     Transition stage can be challenging but as we continue to focus on our intention and purpose, we can eventually build momentum and hone our skills. Positive attitude, putting in the time and making the commitment, as we go through the pace of change can lead to success and satisfaction.

       To Mario “MJ” Racadio, Podcast DJ, and owner of the radio show BlogTalk with MJ Racadio aired at Rhythm 105.9 every Saturdays in Sacramento, California; change is inevitable and when opportunity knocks at your door, it is critical to evaluate your goals. “If the opportunity is in alignment with what you are aiming for, then go for it ” said MJ. Recently, MJ took a leap in moving to Los Angeles from Sacramento, California for better career opportunities. MJ embraced this change with enthusiasm to learn, experience new things and discover new places. So far, his new experiences are helping him develop his skills to be more marketable and at the same time enjoying meaningful experiences.

       Meeting MJ in Los Angeles last May 16 was a great experience. I first met MJ on October 2014 in Hollywood for the launching of Maxi Tone Cosmetics recognizing 50 successful Filipinas in the U.S. A. Humbled to be selected as one of Maxi Tone’s 50 ladies, MJ interviewed me during the event on the red carpet via Pacific Coast TV. Our second meeting is the other way around. I traveled to Los Angeles to interview MJ about his radio show Blogtalk with MJ Racadio to create inspiration in alignment with my new journey to personal blogging. MJ launched Blogtalk with MJ Racadio last year and recently celebrated the one-year anniversary. MJ interviews influential and celebrity people to create a connection, inspiration and empowerment of successful persons in the media and music industry. According to MJ, he also works as a Marketing Consultant at Preferred College of Nursing in Los Angeles and a certified Massage Therapist. MJ also loves to sing and has recorded songs in the past. He performed in special events such as singing the US National Anthem at the University of Phoenix Commencement in Sacramento, California and singing  Philippine National Anthem for National Karate Tournament in Manila, Philippines.

       MJ is very down-to-earth and a fun-loving person. He took the time to spend the day with me exploring Hollywood, Melrose Ave and Beverly Hills area. “Staying humble and having a thick skin like the Great Wall of China is essential in this industry,” said MJ with a smile. Born in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, Philippines he grew up in Villasis, Pangasinan and left the country in his teenage years to reside in the United States. He said his parents raised him to be always grounded and treat people with kindness. According to MJ, it is important to become genuinely interested and take time to get to know others to build a greater connection. By building a good rapport with others, we can always learn something new. Sharing success strategies can encourage others to go after their dreams. MJ likes to surround himself with positive people and looks back to those who have helped him along the way with gratitude and appreciation. With this state of gratitude, he gives back by showing support to others as well, creating a remarkable ripple effect.

      During his free time, MJ keeps himself busy by being involved in Filipino-American community events, connecting with new friends, and participating in a church choir. “You have to have a purpose to fulfill your unique role God has set for you. Staying active in the community keeps me focused on my goal. To get to the direction that you need to go, you must act on it and have a commitment. Work hard and never give up on your dreams.” said MJ. Following his passion for public relation and music industry, his commitment to achieving his goals continues to ignite momentum and creates more opportunities for growth and productivity.

       Getting to know MJ was a positive experience. A fellow Ilocano, we grew up in the same region back home and speak the same dialect. Sharing our cultural values and roots made our conversation more captivating. Surprisingly, MJ shared that his favorite hero is our very own, Philippines’s National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. A doctor, great philosopher, poet, journalist, novelist, world traveler, and artist; Dr. Jose Rizal’s works serve as an inspiration to MJ. Dr. Jose Rizal’s incredible intellectual and artistic talent motivates MJ to stay well rounded and be open to endless possibilities.

       I was excited to discover that MJ and I both graduated from the University of Phoenix and he was once the President of his alumni. As a current student at University of Phoenix advanced studies, sharing our meaningful experiences as “A Phoenix“ created a greater connection. Being in alignment with MJ in different levels deliberately sparked more enthusiasm to continue discovering true purpose and take concrete steps toward fulfillment of  goals.

       Stepping out of our comfort zone and embracing change can be challenging but it is critical to stay active and enthusiastic. Being open to change can lead to greater opportunities and achieve best potential. The most difficult part is taking the first step and adjustments, but unique planning and creative strategies can help ease the transition process. Change is constant and it is our choice to make our experiences meaningful and rewarding. Most importantly, to never give up and stay persistent toward attainment of our goals. So, go out there and do not be afraid to take risks. Our willingness to expand can shift toward new possibilities. According to Winston Churchill, “ There is nothing wrong with change if it is in the right direction.” So, take a leap and find your magic. 

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Journey To Empowerment With Raymond Borja

   

Leilanie Arellano, MSN (Leadership and Health Education), BSN, PCCN Founder Inspirational Alignment Advocacy Foundation, Inc.

Leilanie is currently enrolled at University of Phoenix pursuing Doctorate Degree in Health Administration

    Empowerment is when an individual develops self-efficacy to achieve defined goals. Knowledge, positive behaviors and actions can foster growth to accomplish new and complex objectives for uplifting experiences. Finding balance in cognitive and emotional aspects can maximize transformational outcomes. Conscious thinking is heightened in empowerment and this can help develop critical thinking, reasoning, and effective decision-making skills essential to developing an empowered life.

    To Raymond Borja, Transformational Coach, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist, empowerment is enhancing a sense of ownership by being enthusiastic and developing an intense commitment to achieving set goals. Raymond focuses on creative ways to become more productive and innovative both in both personal and professional life through structural and psychological strategies. Raymond is the Executive Director of Bright Lights Academy, a charity organization that is based in Bulacan, Philippines helping youth learn basic foundation in computer skills for enrichment opportunities that can help students become more successful in life. He will be traveling to the Philippines by the end of this month to deliver computers to Bright Lights Academy and provide leadership and personal mastery seminar in Bulacan. Raymond’s goal is to empower students develop best potential through education, training and collective performance. Raymond is compassionate and has a great life coaching acumen.

www.brightlightsacademy.com

    “Empowerment is to take determined action to be better, push harder than yesterday and dare to do mighty things. Empowerment is not being afraid to fail because failure makes you stronger,” said Raymond.

       I met Raymond through Help for Haiyan Relief Effort in Chicago on November 2014. A typhoon recorded to be one of the strongest typhoons in history devastated our country and I was moved to respond in action. Raymond was one of the leaders in organizing and managing one of the largest and most successful relief effort in Chicago through his co-organizers and galvanized a community. Help for Haiyan relief effort experience was phenomenal, seeing different nationalities rise to extend support created a shift of oneness, and bond of hope stronger than Typhoon Haiyan. Three months prior to typhoon Haiyan, I launched my foundation called Inspirational Alignment Advocacy Foundation. I was empowered to make a difference in other people’s lives even in a small way. Flying to Chicago for the relief effort was a way of giving back and following my passion in advocacy.

       Continuing to share inspiration with Raymond a year and a half after Typhoon Haiyan enhances autonomy and motivation to continue making a difference in other people’s lives. Empowerment helps build an interpersonal bond and active connection that can lead to a greater probability of achieving goals.

       Empowerment through dissemination of knowledge, sharing vital information, skills, resources, opportunities, and motivation can create a maximum impact for achieving goals. To become successful in life, it is essential to have a deep-seated belief that you will produce desired results. Write your goals every day, visualize, and take action. The choice is yours to put an act of will, commitment and exemplary practice to achieve your dreams. Empowerment creates a paradigm shift in complexity and intensity as an individual transition from old patterns to new patterns. During transformation process, it is important to recognize unique abilities and be committed to expanding capabilities to shape a brighter future. Be open to change and pilot new novel approaches to self-empowerment. Nurture a positive attitude and as you develop self-empowerment, empower others to achieve their dreams as well. Inspire others to achieve extraordinary outcomes and develop own capacity to intentional leadership. Building a shared vision through strong collaboration with others can foster growth, increase productivity, and meaningful experiences.

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Find Your Higher Purpose (April 27, 2015)

   

Leilanie Arellano, MSN (Leadership and Health Education), BSN, PCCN Founder Inspirational Alignment Advocacy Foundation, Inc.

Leilanie is currently enrolled at University of Phoenix pursuing Doctorate Degree in Health Administration

      Discovering higher purpose can create a meaningful life. Enthusiasm in finding purpose can develop thematic connections that can unlock a strong sense of direction. Developing a deeper state of being and energy can guide in integrating forces to light an inner fire. It is crucial to find out what lights up your heart and spirit. Knowing your passion will lead to your higher purpose and once in alignment, you will be inspired to take action.

  My passion in international advocacy created a road map in fulfilling my higher purpose. Passion is my guiding framework that gives motivation to work diligently in achieving ultimate calling in life. Fostering self-development while keeping balanced with various life spheres can be challenging but this can be clearly articulated with motivation and determination. I love what I do and with persistence, I find deeper meaning in my existence. I can live life to the fullest with authenticity through a holistic approach.

        Achieving best potential is like harvesting what you have planted. Creativity, hard work and nurturing are needed in order for a seed to grow. When you enjoy what you do, it is not tiring even if the job is arduous. Like the seed of passion, innate quality surfaces, and there is a delight that is permeated in all actions.

       Last spring, I purchased a pine-cast iron sculpture called Seed that was displayed in various art galleries and exhibitions in the Phoenix Valley. A talented young artist, Elijah Bourque created Seed in 2013. I connected to the Seed because it resonated symbol of consciousness to the cycle of life. As we evolve and undergo different transformations in life, it is essential to stay in alignment with our core being and allow our true purpose in life to unfold. The seed mirrors unique consciousness of a humble beginning, and as we grow, it is vital to transcend consciously to discover higher dimensional realms.

       The sculpture was a beautiful element in my room for ten months however; I knew this was temporary. I always believed that it was meant for something greater. My purpose was to share the sculpture, so I thought of giving back to my workplace. I made a proposal to Mayo Clinic Hospital Donations Review Board for the sculpture to be donated and displayed on the Heart Transplant Unit. The sculpture was considered to be shown, but would be placed in a storage afterward. A world-class organization, the hospital receives many donations and have to be rotated for display. It was an honor for the sculpture to be considered however; the sculpture was not meant to be in storage.

      I wrote another proposal to Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing (STTI), Omicron Delta Chapter for the sculpture to be donated to the organization as a way of giving back. STTI recognized my efforts in international advocacy in 2013 and 2014 and awarded my foundation sponsorship. As an honor student in the University of Phoenix doctoral program, I was also fortunate to be awarded academic scholarship last year. The sculpture would have been accepted for display, however because of its size 35’ x 20’ the sculpture would take over space. Nevertheless, STTI was appreciative of the idea and continue to show support both in advocacy and doctoral journey.

       I did not give up my grand vision for the Seed. According to Steve Jobs, “ If you are working on something exciting that you really care about, you don’t have to be pushed. The vision pulls you.” Keeping the vision and trusting the process, I wrote another proposal to Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park. The CEO responded and during my conversation with him over the phone, he mentioned that only one sculpture has been accepted at the Arboretum, and he had declined about 20 sculptures. He requested a photo of the sculpture for review. A few hours after sending the picture, he sent an email stating consideration to accepting the sculpture. At last, I found a home for the Seed!

       The sculpture was officially donated in February to Boyce Thompson Arboretum. It was a momentous event for Elijah and me. The Seed valued $6,800 was the second sculpture only to be accepted by the state park. So, what was special about the sculpture to be accepted? The CEO showed the connection of the sculpture to the Arboretum. I was surprised to see mini sculptures almost similar to the Seed. He said that there were about 70 mini sculptures like the Seed made from 70 different trees. What an alignment! There goes my sculpture, displayed at Boyce Thompson Arboretum among a bed of seeds!

       Like the concept and story of the Seed, we can also find our higher purpose in life. Discover passion and awaken unique gifts to blossom in highest potential. Break free from traditional patterns and status quo. Be motivated with ebullience and cultivate a sense of infinite possibilities. 

"To see things in the seed, that is genius" 

- Lao Tsu

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The Possibilities We Create When We Travel (April 19, 2015)

   

Leilanie Arellano, MSN (Leadership and Health Education), BSN, PCCN Founder Inspirational Alignment Advocacy Foundation, Inc.

Leilanie is currently enrolled at University of Phoenix pursuing Doctorate Degree in Health Administration

       Travel can increase productivity of the creative mind. As an adventurer and an academic writer, the impact of travel reveals inspiration and motivation in unique alignment with my personal and professional goals. Regardless of the purpose of the journey, I combine all situations as a powerful tool for creating a whole meaningful experience. A holistic approach to travel has impeccably taught me to transform into greater boundaries and also inadvertently taught me to reach deep levels of enjoyment, compassion, cultural diversity, and balance while being grounded in authenticity. 

    Revisiting San Francisco was a delightful adventure for the heart and spirit. The beautiful city is exhilarating with the remarkable beauty of a modern city and marvel of nature combined. The mystic hills, sparkling bay area, eclectic mix of modern and Victorian architectural style, fabulous food, and culturally diverse free-spirited people has an alluring magic. Truly, San Francisco is one of the best cities I have visited. The city’s unique beauty is close to my heart.

       The purpose of my travel was to show support to a cohort from the University of Phoenix School for a public speaking engagement in Modesto, California. Before the event, I scheduled a meeting with a business travel entrepreneur in San Francisco. We met at a coffee shop called St. Frank Coffee along historic Russian Hill of Polk St. With Scandinavian inspired atmosphere, St. Frank is my kind of elegant coffee shop. In addition to the extraordinary coffee and French pastries, the environment amplifies social connection and for digital nomads, is a great place to get work done. 

       My meeting was brief but the conversation with the CEO of a travel company falls into an alignment of combining work and freedom to travel around the world at the same time. As an online student, I have developed a digital nomad lifestyle to accomplish schoolwork and enjoy visiting places in my bucket list at the same time. Embracing this kind of lifestyle takes openness to change and flexibility. However, I can find balance between personal and academic time by creating a signature lifestyle. Letting go of traditional patterns, I have learned to shift to developing new experiences to make my journey more productive, fun, and meaningful. Meeting a “mighty traveler” was a journey undertaken to gain knowledge for scrupulous attention to great travel deals, and it served as an inspiration to understand one’s existence through travel. 

    My trip to Modesto, California was a rewarding experience. Reconnecting with my cohort from the doctoral program and showing support for a public speaking engagement resonated University of Phoenix School of Advanced Studies mission. As students, our collaborative efforts help us develop knowledge and skills to develop leadership and service to communities (University of Phoenix, SAS). There’s a creative action among doctoral students to purposeful dialog and learning activities for a meaningful endeavor. Driving around Modesto, I discovered that it is the home of Gallo Winery, world’s largest family-owned winery and the largest exporter of California wine (gallo.com) I enjoyed the short stop at Gallo Winery, and the lovely drive with beautiful vineyard and almond plantation sceneries. 

    Returning to San Francisco, I decided to spend the rest of my time in this city enjoying the view of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The view of the crimson-colored perpetual bridge was breathtaking from the Battery Spencer Marin County side. A mystical monument, the structure is a symbol of ultimate creativity. It was definitely perfect spot to spend a relaxing time with awe-inspiring views before leaving San Francisco.

    With constricted time, I did not get the chance to grab dinner before heading to the airport. When I opened my backpack, I found the box of French macaron given to me as a gift from a new friend I met when I arrived in the city. I met Cal during the flight to San Francisco. We shared an Uber ride, and because we were both early for our individual meetings, we took a short stroll along the Russian Hill of Polk Street, captured fun pictures, and stopped by La Boulange for French coffee and delicious macarons. Meeting Cal was a surprise blessing to my journey. Once again, I rediscovered that it is in the little moments that make travel and life fantastic. Life is indeed like a box of macarons; and it is very colorful. And to travel well, it is essential to develop a beautiful balance with the unknown.

    As I took a few bites of the macarons, the colors reminded me of the different experiences in this journey. With good intention, each experience was colorful and can serve as a guide and inspiration along my journey. I love to travel because it gives me a whole new perspective in life. Travel gives me joy and provides an opportunity for growth, alignment, and share experiences with others.  To travel is to live life to the fullest. 

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