Top 5 Essentials for Long Flights

For my road warriors; this one is for you! 

As an event planner I am constantly traveling across the United States and the globe as a matter of thought and for those long flights (LA, Hawaii, Canada, Madrid) there are just some things that you will need to have in your arsenal to make your flight comfortable and enjoyable.

Surviving long hours of travel requires a few aides.  Like the ones listed below.  (Alcohol & Valium not listed – nor recommended, if you can avoid them!)

1. Noise-canceling headphones drown out crying babies & loud passengers.  These also can be charged via USB, have tangle-resistant cords, and come with their own carrying case.
2. A luxurious travel blanket that gives your economy seat a touch of first class.  Tip – do not use the airline-provided blankets unless it comes packaged in plastic. They are the germ magnets and will put a dent in your trip very quickly.
3. Kindle - perfect when the movie selections are less than stellar. 
4. A portable charger; my personal preference is the Energizer® XP4000; It was my lifesaver in Madrid. To be honest, it should be a permanent fixture in every work bag and purse.
5. Snacks; airplane food is well blah, bringing snacks are essential especially if your have food allergies or need to eat a specified times.  Tip – Eat a hearty meal either before you get to the airport or after; and purchase a bottle of water after you clear the security check point.  No caffeine or alcohol while traveling.  In-flight hangovers are drastically worse than those on the ground.

So what item must YOU take with you on a long flight? Share below.

Five Things Every Woman Entrepreneur Needs To Know

Being a woman entrepreneur there are some things that I have learned in the 20 years of being in business.

1. There may never be a right time ~ You may be waiting for the "perfect" time to start your business, but the truth is, it probably doesn't exist. The economy might be crap. You're too young, too old or your children are too young or too old. You'll make it work.
2. You can ask for help ~ Use your friends and family as much as you can, for support, babysitting, feedback. You don't have to do it alone, and really, you aren't supposed to. It’s not a weakness to ask for help, it's a strength.
3. Your online presence is your storefront ~ You can’t just have a strong website. You have to be active on Twitter, have Facebook pages, video content and online communities of client feedback. Branding is carried out through a multitude of platforms beyond business cards and logos to social networking profiles and hashtags. Remember every channel is an opportunity to make an impression on someone.
4. It will be 1000 times harder than you already think ~ There will always be challenges, but they are meant to be hurdles, not barriers. You need to pick yourself up and carry on when you get a knock back. You get tougher. Your skin gets thicker.
5. Be fearless ~ It takes guts and determination to be about this life, but the payoff is worth the risk.

We need more women putting their passions and dreams on the line. Job creation is a dire need in the current economy, and women have great potential to help turn things around.