For The Weekenders: Medicinal Cocktails in Miami, Water Taxi Rides in San Fran, Vino in Chicago

June 21, 2013 by Rego

So there’s a certain someone you’ve been eyeing for a while and they’re back on the market. Jump in and ask them out you say? Most certainly not, I suggest.

But…but WHY? They’re on market now – somebody’s going to snatch them up!

Be cool, my red blooded hot-hearted friend. Do not ask out, but instead invite to chill out. Casually, gracefully, warmly. Observe:

You ring up this certain someone – not text, text is impersonal, hard to read, and a half-assed effort – and you tell them that you just discovered the fountain of life, tucked away in Miami Beach. Naturally being curious, they ask what you mean, and you explain to them that elixirs of all sorts can be found at this one special place – while instructing them to meet you in 2 hours at 1650 James Ave.

Mixology 202.

I introduce to you Drogerie – Miami’s most original Medicinal Lounge Bar. While some bartenders may suggest the poison they think is best for you after a 5 minute “heartfelt” conversation, these guys focus less on poison, and more on medicine…meaning they’ve been studying for decades learning about various herbs, alcohol attributes, and botanicals, mastering and learning what combinations go best with the body – and less on what the little misery demon inside your head is telling you you should have to drown all your problems away.

Let’s put the Xanax on ice for now.

So you both meet up and settle into a nice comfy sofa, while noticing the ultra loungey music in the background. You glance over to the bar and wonder why there are so many doctors there – maybe medical research you say – but no, those you see in white coats you soon realize aren’t doctors, but bar tenders – or more accurately, mixologists.

So what’s your next move? Well, you confidently say “hang tight one sec, I’ll be back” and make your way over to the bar. Grab one of the “Prescription Lists” – aka menus – but never use that word – then you start to use simple logic, and go for one of the drinks appropriately categorized under “Stress relievers.”

From there you order the “Miami Chiller,” a well thought out drink containing muddled celery, gin with hints of cucumber, green Chartreuse, a touch of Chardonnay vinegar, and fresh cut lime. You order two, and walk back to explain the creation of the drink and it’s purpose – being to take someone to a calming, more relaxed state of mind….and after 3-4 of those and 60 minutes in, combined with the class A ambiance of the place – you realize it does.

So you’ve both hit up a unique lounge bar, loosened up, and now that alluring someone feels they need some air. What do you do? While taking a stroll on the beach is all fine and fun – it’s so….standard. How about something a little different, a little refreshing, where they can feel a little bit more of that gentle open breeze brush against their face? This is where Tideline Water Taxi comes in handy.

I know what you’re thinking. A water taxi? That doesn’t sound fun at all.

Au contraire, my friend. It’s more fun than you think – just slightly more relaxing…and that’s what you were looking for, right…?

The great part about these guys is, they run a small service – up to six passengers at once. Making it far more private and personal.

Operating along the San Francisco waterfront and lower Marin County, they travel to popular locations, so every stop always has something interesting to see. Like Pier 39.

What’s better than clearing your head while having wind blow through your hair? The soft hum of a motorized boat and captivating rhythmic patterns of water being cut through and the sound of the ocean? When you’re stressed out and not sure about anything, nothing sounds like sweeter music to the ears. Plus – being an all-weather taxi, it’s a great excuse to get closer when things get chilly. Yeah, I know.

After cruising around for an hour or so, you warm bodies are a bit chilly – and sobered up at that. How do you kill those two birds with one stone? Simple – you hit up a wine bar. That has great wine…but isn’t afraid to serve other spirits.

Like 18 year old Yamazaki Whisky.

Nothing warms the body better than wine…or whisky. I’m talking about The Twisted Vine, comfortably located in Chicago, IL. The best part? You get to cozy up in elegant and timeless leather seating, enjoy strategically placed lighting, and decked out hardwood floors. Order a bottle of your choice, ask for their menu of hors d’oeuvre, and shoot for the gourmet olive bowl or varied insanely delicious cheese and cracker platter – and no, we’re not talking Nabisco and Kraft.

With a touch of walnuts and other delights on the side.

What’s better than polishing off a choice bottle of wine and select cheeses with someone easy on the eyes?

Have a great weekend.

– Rego

Cocktail Recipes & Simple Cocktail Recipes | Pottery Barn (potterybarn.com)

For The Weekenders: Medicinal Cocktails in Miami, Water Taxi Rides in San Fran, Vino in Chicago is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

“Always be yourself…

June 19, 2013 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

“Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.” – Bruce Lee

It’s not what other say you should be – it’s what you think you are. It’s not how others say you should act – it’s what you choose to express. It’s not what other say you can or can’t do – it’s what you yourself believe you can do…and it’s not who others say you should be. It’s who you want to be.

No matter what, although there are models and successful figures you may admire, it’s still about carving your own path, making your own distinct name, and writing your own version of history – by making it if you so choose.

Happy Wednesday.

Musings Episode 12: Location, Location, Location…

June 18, 2013 by Rego

So this guy I know just closed on a house last week, and I have to admit I was pretty happy for him.

For a bit of background, the guy made his way down to South Florida after a brutal break up – he and his fiancee were set to marry, he’d sold his house, given away all his furniture and moved in with her. Then, no more than a few weeks later she said she didn’t think it was gonna work out, and the poor guy was left high and dry. Ridiculous.

Almost as ridiculous as this guy getting kicked out of his own country for being too handsome””. That’s a true story, by the way. Check it out.

Just brutal.

First time I met him, he was cantankerous. With a bit of conversation though, you could start to see his real side come out. I knew he wasn’t a mean guy – just hurt.

So I pulled a few strings, got him a nice set up where he could forget any and all problems associated with that situation.

Then I find 3 weeks later he’s up and running again, ready to get back into his usual way of doing things, ready to see what else out there the world has to offer, ready to check out the other fish in the sea and cars on the market.

This whole situation made me realize even more how the location and area that surround a person is more important than we may think. In both a financial, and energy sense.

I’m very big on location. VERY. 95% of where I have lived is based on 7 major factors – local activities, distance, weather, beauty of surroundings, general attitude of people in the area, convenience, and building layout and view.

I think many people think this way, but then also many people move where work takes them. They learn to settle in, get adjusted, and become interested in the place because that’s where they’ll be for the next god knows how many months because that’s where the money is.

While this is all fine and dandy for some, I’m sure for others it may seem like a nightmare.

One wrong word could set this fellow gentleman into hurling his suitcase at an innocent…back away slowly.

In my opinion that type of moving doesn’t really allow you to move for the reasons you want to – and in fact it’s more like chasing dollars – literally. The “who moved my cheese?” metaphor and then going to find it is real, scarily enough.

So after much pondering, I thought I’d write a bit about some key factors in a location I look for, and maybe, just maybe it’ll get you thinking about what you look for as well…and remember – I’m talking about things that would make where you live seem like an absolute sanctuary. So here goes.

Let’s start with local activities. Clearly, from all the “For The Weekenders” post you all have read, it’s well known I’m all about places that have amazing things to do without having to necessarily travel to some exotic far out place no one’s ever heard of if you choose not to.

Even a paddle boat in the right setting can be fun.

Yet keep in mind when I look for a place that has great local activities, I also avoid overpopulated and high traffic places like the plague.

While finding such places that have one without the other may seem impossible, I must assure you it most certainly. Is. Possible. Just takes a bit of research is all.

So I guess you could say local activities also tie in with distance. Yes, very true. I always try and look for places that if possible, have everything at your fingertips, where literally if you’re going by car, you could just keep making a right at every major intersection until you circle right back around to where you live and hit up every place you need for groceries, gas, nightlife, etc.

Lox, champagne, high priced call girl…you name it. Joke on that last one. Indulgence level 99.

The same thing should be if you’re going by car as well.

Take Shin Okubo for instance, in Tokyo. Located on the Yamanote line, this trendy little area had an array of shops, and you could find a decent place with a nice view that was a very short walking distance to the train station. The best part? Two of the most major hotspots were no more than a few exits away – making total costs to travel to them less than $2 one way. Heck, you could even walk if you felt like a nice little stroll.

Kickass little place.

I’d say that’s win.

Speaking of which, trendy for me isn’t complete without some class A surroundings. I have to, have to, have to, have an excellent view with every place I move into. When I step out my door and get in my car, drive down that street, it has to be aesthetically appealing. From the landscaping to the architecture of buildings. Add a beach less than 10 minutes away and you’re talking an A+ spot in my mind. Which really when you think about it ties in with weather.

Another great area I could say pulled this off with tremendous effort albeit surprisingly dreary weather are some places in the UK. I remember uni days there. Now if you’ve been to some bits of the UK, you know exactly what I’m talking about when I say dreary. Minimal sunshine, rain for days, bitter cold winds.

Yet then you get the odd, sunny days where everyone bolts for the park like a herd of race horses or wild mustangs.

Sunny or dreary, the place I was in had great architecture. Old structures that had been up for years, somehow brought together with new developments to form this sort of, hybrid town with shoppes, banks, and decent “high street” lounges, that you could dip into on a cold rainy night during your uni days after that three hour lecture that almost bored you to tears.

From this….

…to this.

And most of all…combined with everything else, I’d say the attitude of the people in such areas with the attributes I’ve been discussing with you ranks incredibly high on the list. This, in actual fact, can either make or break a place, in a variety of ways.

Ever noticed how certain people hang out with certain people? It’s not intentional, it just sort of happens. I wouldn’t call it a “clique” tendency, that’s too juvenile and should be left behind at grade school graduation day.

But I’m talking about how people who are fans of water sports or fishing migrate to areas where there’s a plethora of opportunity for that, or how people who are really into performance auto migrate from Tokyo to Yokohama. Heck – even snowboarders make their way to Vermont Canada or Colorado.

The people and the attitudes of said people play a larger part in enjoying where a person stays more than many people think it does. That’s why younger people wouldn’t exactly feel comfortable in a 55+ community…nor would young spirited 55+ feel comfortable if said community had a majority of members that were constantly talking about hip replacements.

It’s these subtle little things that people sort of know they’re looking for, but never really make the ultimate decision and assertion that they ARE going to be picky enough to find all their requirements and desires…more importantly desires….

…and by neglecting those desires you neglect a part of yourself.

It all ties in, be it clothing, or cars, accommodation or friends. We were given free will to choose – and in doing so thus stimulating our imagination. There’s more importance to this than you may think…and in the end it’s all worth it, guaranteed.

So go ahead, get creative, and get picky – it’s you who has to stay in that area, live in that house, and make friends with those poeple. Exercise your free will, and in doing so you’ll exercise your imagination and awaken your real desires – and by awakening your real desires, discovering just another part of your real self, fueling and finding your own happiness within because you did activate your imagination.

Stay decisive.

– Rego

Musings Episode 12: Location, Location, Location… is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

“The greatest way…

June 12, 2013 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

“The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be.” – Socrates

Pretty much speaks for itself. If you’re going to act it, do it. There are different ways to break your word, different ways to build, and destroy, your reputation, and different ways to show your character. Always make sure you strive to be the best in your attitude, your beliefs, and your ways you go about doing things. That, is one of the most essential, key things for success in business, and personal life.

Otherwise you’ll just be labeled as being full of shit. No one wants that.

Happy Wednesday.

– Rego

Musings Episode 11: Cars and Status Quo…

June 9, 2013 by Rego

Recently a few friends of mine have been looking for decent automobiles – and naturally with me having ties with the auto auction business, I was the first person they turned to.

Classic.

One of them in particular wanted either a BMW or a Lexus. Another wanted a Nissan GT-R.

“Rego, I seriously want a nice luxury vehicle, I’m thinking a BMW 7 series with all the bells and whistles, gps, seat warmers, crazy sensors, one touch gear change, the works,” one of them says.

“Why?” I ask nonchalantly but curious as to where they’re going with it.

“Because – they’re sick! They’re the best luxury cars out there, and I really think it would reflect my personality and lifestyle.”

It’s here I laugh and flop back in my chair putting my hands behind my head.

“Dude….have you looked around lately?” I smirk proceeding to explain my logic.

Everyday I ask this question. There was a time, when seeing a BMW on the road was something enjoyable, unique, different, refreshing….but now, they seem to be the most commonly driven car.

“It’s a lease…” – Fun with Dick and Jane (2005)

Their advertising displays speed, elegance, class, adventure, durability…and while all of these may be true unique to the brand, ironically there are so many leased units out there, the terms “originality” and “distinction,” have lost their association with the BMW name.

What I’m trying to say is – why is it, that every Tom, Dick, and Harry runs around thinking they’ve got the best thing since silk sheets when they own a car that practically everyone drives? There are so many on the road yet I’ve met many a BMW leasee (or owner) that acts with an air of superiority and cockiness because of the keys that jingle in their pocket.

I think it all boils down to status quo. An obvious statement some may see that as, but I’m being serious.

Think about it – if media such as television and commercials, movies and music are all things that many people as humans listen to on a daily (especially television), the subconscious idea that car companies such as BMW or Lexus, Infiniti or Dodge (their new Challenger and Charger models) attempt to instill seems to unintentionally portray that there is, and should be, a certain way one should act upon acquiring such an automobile.

….and that’s how I became a douchebag. Now, who’s up for champagne?

It was then I continued to explain to my friend there are loads of other ways, and other automobiles, to express your personality and lifestyle choices.

I’ve always been a fan of classics. I love the way each car used to be truly unique – in shape, engine, and characteristics. Customizable, where you could bond with your vehicle and that bond made it feel like it was yours.

Nowadays you see so many cars with automated this and automated that, it becomes so hidden and neatly tucked away from you, that when you pop the hood you’re lucky if you can find the dipstick to your engine’s oil.

Wait…wait…there it is…!

Pre 2000’s, auto makers strove for originality and keeping their vehicles “open source,” as funny as that may seem to use a computer term…and though I understand today many cars are made the same to maximize costs and time efficiency, they’re made cheaper with lesser quality materials.

Yet there has been another thing going on – you see many people starting to bring the classics back…the A/C 427 SC, ’69 Ford Mustang, Plymouth Cuda, even the VW Beetle – all slowly being restored and coming out of the woodwork.

That’s originality.

Like I said, and as I will always say, life is all about experiences, and it is absolutely unnecessary to pursue an experience television advertisements flash in front of your face everyday simply because they dictate what qualifies as status quo and lifestyle classification.

After hearing this my friend then starts thinking differently, realizing there are loads more options he really likes but just never thought of before.

Long story short he’s a large-sized car fan (go figure wanting a 7 series) and decides instead of dropping $70-$130,000 on a single, shiny BMW, he’s gonna do his research and look for 3 cars he really likes – one of them being a Plymouth Superbird.

“Like in the movie…???”…”Like in the movie.”

Many times I find that hype and enough mass enthusiasm can get people as humans into a real pickle and cause many to lose track of their real desires and dreams.

Truth is it’s not really what anyone else thinks or drives, what commercials or large corporations tell you what’s in or out, or even if your tailor tells you “ostrich shoes are far more stylish this year than your standard cow hide.”

It doesn’t matter how stylish anything is – it boils down to what makes you feel good in your own skin and you alone. Not anyone else.

We have so many choices as humans yet daily, I see many give up their free will and follow in masses. Like Mark Twain said, “Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it’s time to pause and reflect.”

I’m sure I’ve written that previously, but it constantly needs reiteration, because it’s true. This post isn’t just about cars, but the overall message of what society claims status quo to be.

If anything, it is merely a meter. A measure for what qualifies as social class and what drops below any given rank.

Forget the ranks.

Forget the social class.

Always pursue great experiences yes, but sometimes a ride down the boardwalk on a long board can beat a ride down South Beach in a ridiculous looking stretch limo.

It’s all about the good feeling.

What makes you feel good, without letting the majority of what you see influence your decisions.

Lifestyle? Personality? Like I tell my friends – always, always make sure your personality defines your lifestyle – not the other way around. Keep your eye on the ball, avoid getting caught up in the majority, and stay true to yourself – regardless of what anyone else says.

Also, before I conclude, there’s this really great song (featuring Seulong of 2AM) from DJ Clazzi – the leader of Clazziquai that’s been stuck in my head. Great driving song 😉 Thought I’d share it with you all, it’s got a great beat and the lyrics are well written (which you can find here – thanks Princess of Tea for the post).

Have a great week.

– Rego

Musings Episode 11: Cars and Status Quo… is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

“When you are…

June 5, 2013 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

“When you are through changing, you are through.” – Bruce Barton

The minute you stop moving forward – that’s it. Change is a must, everything evolves…there’s no stopping it. A blade of grass accepts this, and effortlessly continues to grow. Like I always say – it doesn’t matter how slowly you go, as long as you keep moving.

Stay Awesome.

– Rego

Musings Episode 10: Clothes Make The Man…Woman…Person.

June 5, 2013 by Rego

So recently I’ve been considering changing up my style for summer and created a list of clothing I’m gonna be shopping around for soon…and it made me think of another key component of successful business and business tactics.

Clothing play a big part in multiple aspects of success – the most common being first impressions and subconscious affiliations.

Think about it.

I currently have numerous ventures going on, and with each, must wear a different “hat”. If you were an investor and were meeting me at a smart casual restaurant to discuss financing, and we’d never met before, you wouldn’t exactly expect me to show up in a pair of trainers/sneakers, shorts, and an underarmour shirt that I just came from a fitness session wearing, would you?

You probably also wouldn’t be too thrilled if I showed up looking like I was ready for an MMA match.

What would be your first impression?

Your first thought?

Would you take me seriously?

Would you instantly start sizing me up according to things such as social class, business etiquette, and ability to handle myself in a professional setting?

Probably not…and then maybe. It all depends on the individual.

My point here is clothes make the man/woman. No matter what, society inevitably links appearance to expectations. When you see someone with black trousers, black short sleeve button down, gun on the hip, and a badge, you instantly think policeman. When you see someone in a suit, tie, and holding a briefcase, you think corporate ladder climber. If you see someone in a silk suit, some form of exotic animal leather shoes, and gold/platinum cufflinks, you think rich executive or business owner. If you see a well groomed metrosexual man even, you’ll probably have one or two people assume he’s gay.

And honestly guys, there’s so many of you that should start doing this. It gets you places with the ladies.

In knowing all this, I’d say it’s fairly safe to conclude what you wear is what you’re labeled as.

Now wait – before you jump to conclusions, I’m not going to judge you and tell you what you should and shouldn’t wear. I am however, going to give you a few pointers on what can aid you overall in life – business and personal. There’s a list of different things that could visually send power statements to a wide range of people, and it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune, unless you want it to.

As you all know Urban Daddy is my party bible, but they’ve also been known to be my go to spot for all things original and distinct. This also includes clothing. Jetset Magazine is also another great go to place. The great thing about living in this world is the huge amount of variety we get. From tailor made to standard cheap cuts, we have choices. Why not make the choice to dress better? It just makes sense.

This goes for both the men…

…and the women. Remember ladies – the perfect waistline is still considered the most attractive feature on a woman.

When you dress better, you feel more confident. Pair that with fitness and actually allowing yourself to look good in your clothing, and you’ve got yourself feeling like a new person, and sometimes, more often than not, rocking a new personality…and guys, this also means keeping up your fitness levels as well. You may be able to snag that 10 at the bar, but she still appreciates a well cut body – the same way you were eyeing her for her flawless figure.

I’m serious. Think about how many people look up to actors and actresses in Hollywood, or even athletes. What is it that most people admire about these people? Their acting? Their personalities? Their accomplishments?

Hardly is it ever their personalities…you may think you know an actor/actress or any other famous figure by their persona they display on TV during interviews – but then that’s just what it is. A persona…they’ve been trained and have learned to change up their attitude and personality at any given moment. It’s their job.

No, I’d say much of what makes them admirable is the way they present themselves. Presentation is everything. In our food, in our dress, even in our location. Most often we pick where we would like to live based on what the location has to offer us, what the place looks like, and the safety and happenings of the area. Find me one person that will live anywhere, and I do mean anywhere, and say they have zero regard for what the place looks like, and I will confidently call bullshit. The travel industry makes their money off appearance – appearance, location, and nothing else.

In my opinion, it’s always a good idea to make sure you make a small effort to look decent in general. A decent well made shoe, well made quality thread clothing, well maintained hair, facial grooming, moisturizing, smelling good, all these things have a great impact in more ways than one.

As humans, we’re mostly sensory beings. 90% of what we interpret and how we communicate doesn’t come from our mouth – it comes from all 5 senses, but hearing is just a small factor. Smell, touch, taste, and sight are critical.

So when we’re meeting up with friends, or we’re going on a date, or we’re meeting potential future business partners, most of what’s being evaluated isn’t coming out of our mouths. So what are the top things I look out for when I evaluate future business associates and want to see if they would reflect the business image I’m looking for? Read on…

Shoes. As mentioned earlier, shoes I believe are really important. No, I’m not saying you have to go out and buy a pair of $3000 kicks. Not at all. I do however, believe that they should look clean, be quality made, and show your personality. Whether it’s a pair of sandals or custom made boots, in my opinion they should reflect that you value yourself and your appearance.

Marcello Mastroianni – one of a kind…

Pants and shirts, skirts and dresses. I’m all for individualism and creativity, but let’s not forget style and class. Even dressed like you’re slumming it should seem like you’re making effort and still maintaining the ability to catch a few eyes…fitted clothing I think work best – so many times nowadays I see women wearing clothing TOO tight, and guys wearing clothing like they just rolled out of bed. What’s up with that? Na, stop trying too hard, stop not trying at all, and instead try to find a nice median in between. You’ll get there – it just takes a bit of effort.

Hair. I’m always one for great looking hair. Like seriously – when someone makes the effort to make their hair look great, in being a former photographer it really gives me a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Making the effort doesn’t mean going to any crazy extent and paying someone at a salon or barber shop either. Sometimes, it can mean just researching and looking into a few great hair products, finding a style that frames your face, and most importantly, what makes you feel comfortable in your own skin. Everything I mention here should make you feel comfortable in your own skin.

Accessories. These really say a lot about a person…more than you may think. A few good accessories can sum up your personality, your viewpoint in life, and even how you go about your day to day life. A watch could mean you’re mindful of time, while a bracelet made of fish hooks could mean you like adventure and the open sea.

I have a silver chain style necklace with a key that looks like a fin key to a surf board that I’ve had around my neck for the past 6 years, and it still says a lot. A few carefully selected accessories can get a message across without you having to say anything.

Lastly, personal grooming such as face and skin, perfumes and colognes, all tie in with completing the unsaid self-statement. Choosing good skin products, decent facial washes, and quality scents that match well with your body chemistry can aid greatly in getting people’s smelling and feeling sensory mechanisms to pick up on positively…and I don’t mean spraying scents on like a crop duster…

…or coating yourself in self-tanning lotion.

Subtlety is key, and less is more – except when it comes to showering.

You all know my viewpoints on exercise, eating healthy and staying fit…and honestly eating healthy can be Monday morning to Friday afternoon with weekends free to splurge and indulge. This spikes your metabolism and doesn’t make you feel like a prisoner to healthy foods – or a sinner if you pick up that dozen of Krispy Kreme donuts at your local Publix (hey, I’m guilty for it). Go ahead, you deserve it.

…and that’s pretty much it. It’s these little things that can help a lot in daily life, with just a little conscious effort, that go a long way. Keep this in mind and you’ll see subtle changes, in yourself and your surroundings.

Stay classy.

– Rego

Musings Episode 10: Clothes Make The Man…Woman…Person. is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

Musings Episode 9: Fitness, Stress, and Finances…

May 28, 2013 by Rego

So this weekend a friend and I worked out together. My usual routine is 5 days a week and weekends to myself, but I thought I’d throw in some extra credit this weekend just for fun.

So we’re at my gym and he’s on the spinning cycle while I’m cranking out a few pull-up variations and we get to talking.

Y’know, just crankin’ ’em out….

“Hey Rego?”

“Yeah?” I say between breaths.

“What’s the point of all this really? I mean besides the physical results, why really bother if you just eat right?”

It’s here I drop from the bar wiping sweat off my forehead and giving him the look.

The look being the “are you serious” kind.

At first, I thought about giving him the long, logical, “it practically makes sense, man” type explanation…but I didn’t. Instead, I uttered these three words:

“It makes money”.

Puzzled, he looked on at me trying to fathom how that even made any sort of sense at all.

You’re probably wondering the same thing. Well, let me elaborate….

Exercise…working out…fitness, whatever you may want to call it, is one of the many things that breeds success. Sure, there are many other things that breed success, but to be honest, working out, scientifically, can get your head clear…and if you have blue skies in the horizon where your dome is (dome as in, noggin…as in head), you’re far less likely to experience a “success block.” Ever heard that saying “empty room empty mind”? Yeah, the same applies here.

And contrary to popular belief, fitness isn’t just about the physical results – in my opinion, that’s just a perk.

Think of it this way – by staying fit, (along with healthy eating), you eliminate stress. Stress causes toxic release, and can also cause high levels of LDLs/VLDLs to be released – aka “bad cholesterol”. By working out, this counters those LDLs/VLDLs with HDLs, or “good cholesterol.”

Yes, there is such a thing, as good cholesterol.

Archer Season 2: “Wait wait wait…there’s GOOD cholesterol…???”

By eliminating stress, you have more energy, more awareness, and more clarity. All of these combined can be of extraordinary benefit, because this means you can focus more on brainstorming and have ideas “pop” into your head, staying there with better vividness and goal oriented objectives.

Many of the private clients I train are corporate level people. While some drop off like flies because they can’t hack the workouts, others stick around understanding exactly why they’re doing it.

It’s not hard work they’re after. They’re not masochists…but they do understand that the slight edge comes from doing little things that seem to make little difference – but in fact are huge.

They understand that it’s not just about acquiring money – but keeping your head clear, focused, driven, and on track to acquire, keep, and distribute that money most effectively.

Right down to the penny.

The sad part is many people don’t look at life that way….I can tell you of people who make in excess of $1 million per annum…but their cash flow makes them live like a $30,000 per annum type person.

Understand this whole discussion on fitness is partially a metaphor…and partially fact. For a while now you guys have seen me blog on epic life experiences to keep your imaginations active, contribute to your lives being filled with fun, and remind you to not take every little thing so seriously.

Today though, I want you to see the scientific side of things.

So often nowadays many just sit on their bums tapping away at their smart phones, they never ponder over why they really DO any of the things they do. You get out there, you pitch, you make money, but for what…? What actual goal is it that you have in mind, that motivates you…?

People who say they work a job or own a business for the passion of it, I call bullshit. Yes, true, you can thoroughly enjoy the work you do, but really it still boils down to an objective.

This is what fitness does.

It trains you mentally to form objectives.

To form milestones.

To form goals.

Without this, all of humanity would just be a meandering and meaningless existence.

all_dvd_covers_idiocracy_r1_cdcovers_cc_front-other_610_300_s_c1_center_center

The first time I saw this, I laughed, thinking no way humans would ever get to that state….now, I stand in silence sometimes.

The lion hunts to eat.

The bird flies to travel from A to B.

Even the shrimp sucks up bacteria for a greater purpose.

Every living thing, was designed for an objective.

The difference is, humans have free will. They have choice. Something that was never given or bestowed upon any other creature on earth.

When I look at people, and I see them exercising – I see someone who takes initiative – for themselves mostly but indirectly for every other choice in their life.

Financially speaking, working out is beneficial in that it can clear your head on different levels. A difficult, long-enduring workout can make you feel reborn again the next morning. It may hurt like hell the first time, but it makes you feel different. Working out, any kind of working out unblocks certain paths in the brain to enhance thinking, heighten awareness, and adjust to environment.

This is why some guys who just pump iron for size, well…I call them lazy gym buffs.

As an entrepreneur, it’s all about improv, new ideas, improved thinking, different methods of approach, finding more than one solution, and finding the most effective way to get something accomplished.

Being active in fitness for more than 10 years, all of these principles and concepts apply in both business and health.

Just another reason why I’m a great admirer of contact and combat sports such as MMA and fencing.

They open your mind to thinking steps ahead of your opponent…and your opponent doesn’t even have to be another person – it could be thinking ahead for potential future business concepts.

Look at Donald Trump.

Robert Kiyosaki.

Tim Ferriss.

Venus & Serena Williams.

Kelly Slater.

Heck, Warren Buffet even.

They all share a common trait. They all hold a certain set of beliefs and ideas about both business and lifestyle. The two are inseparable.

It’s athlete’s like these which will always be ahead of the game…even when they come out of it. Kelly Slater – moving from performance to product. Genius.

They all think one, two, even three steps ahead of the game. That game you could label as life, business, anything. The bottom line is, they’ve learned to alter their thinking to such an extent that when it really is game time – they don’t choke – but seize the opportunity.

He who hesitates is lost.

This is what I meant when I said to my friend fitness makes money.

It clears your head.

Opens your mind.

Makes you constantly think of new, different ways to enhance your health…just another reason why I try never to let my private clients get bored with their workouts – you get bored with the workout, it becomes routine – routine is damaging. A routine workout can be as bad as being stuck in the rat race – you’re on that treadmill never thinking of when you’ll reach your destination because you’re too distracted by meaningless crap that keeps you from looking at your milestone markers, which help you indicate how much road you’ve got left to go.

TVs on treadmills….minus ten points.

It’s all about TRACKING progress. Self-evaluation is critical. Don’t ignore the miles – count them and jump for joy every time you can go an extra one.

Remember – it does not matter how slowly you go, as long as you have an objective and DO. NOT. STOP.

Advance past go and collect $200.

– Rego

Musings Episode 9: Fitness, Stress, and Finances… is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

For The Weekenders: J-Land Special…Part 2

May 25, 2013 by Rego

Alright…! Recharged and ready to go, welcome to the second part of For The Weekenders: J-Land Part 2.

I remember on one of my visits to Japan going to see the Statue of Liberty…

Wait – what…? Statue of Liberty….? Well, it’s definitely possible, and can be seen in a little place called Odaiba.

What and where, is Odaiba you ask…? Odaiba is a large, unique, artificial island located in Tokyo Bay, across the rainbow bridge from Tokyo…Grab a water bus from Hinode Pier to get there, just a short walking distance from Hamamatsucho station on the Yamanote line, and take in the sights as you leisurely cruise your way over.

Initially being built for defensive purposes, Odaiba is now more of a place full of attractions and shops, including Burberry, an arcade that houses all the usual favorites like racing and fighting games, food, and a car theme park.

Being an enthusiast of automobiles, naturally Toyota Mega Web is the first place I went…they have a museum of cars from past decades….

As seen in Gran Turismo 4…

….oh, and did I mention you can test drive cars on an actual track and try out the simulators that actually act how a car would if you crash…?

Yeah.

Check it out here now. It’s one place you won’t want to pass up. Be sure to take plenty of pictures, a stroll on the boardwalk, grab an umbrella from Burberry, and hit up the food court for some seriously delicious items such as these:

Fucking. Yum.

There’s loads more to do, but I’ll leave the rest to you to discover.

Feeling a bit upper class and wanting to see Tokyo, also known as The Metropolis from a bird’s eye view? Then it’s time for you to check it out from a ￥90,000 yen view (roughly $900), with Excel Air.

Charter a helicopter from them, grab about four or five of your closest friends…heck….ditch the friends and bring a date…and prepare to take a look at this breathtaking city day or night….and in my book, the only way to travel is to make it memorable.

I’ll go with sunset…

I’ve known some guys to take girls on things like this during White Day in Japan (a holiday in March where a man gets the opportunity to show mutual affection for a woman who’s given him chocolates/gifts on Valentine’s Day the month prior). If this doesn’t make you want to get your pilot’s license, I don’t know what will.

An experience of a lifetime, tours leave from Urayasu Heliport near Maihama station on the JR Keiyou line.

No trip to Japan would be complete without ramen. I know, I know, common, well known, most talked about food…but it’s not just about eating the ramen…it’s about discovering, the best, most memorable ramen known to mankind. There are many shops – few that are remembered.

I myself like to find the smallest, most whole in the wall type place – you know, the type where the front door on a cold winter day is a big plastic “sheet” for a wall…sit down, look at the few selections they have, and order. I usually wait for the chef to bring it over, and being a foreigner he waits to see just what I think of it and how well I can actually eat it (there’s a certain skill that’s developed – no forks here folks). Slurping is a GOOD thing…no slurpy, equals a pissed off and insulted chef. So slurp, slurp away my friends and gain respect.

Impressed with each other, I usually leave stomach full, taste buds content, and the guy across the counter usually shoots a firm but warm smile my way as he hears “gochisousamadeshita” as I shuffle out hand in the air as a goodbye.

Ahh, Japan…

– Rego

Rainbow Bridge (archintojapan.wordpress.com)
Hot Rod in Odaiba (r32taka.com)
To slurp or not to slurp? (sushinchips.wordpress.com)

For The Weekenders: J-Land Special…Part 2 is a post from and appeared first on Rego’s Life

“If one advances…

May 22, 2013 by Rego

Musings: Quote Wednesdays…

“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours.” – Henry David Thoreau

UPDATE: Thought I pushed the Publish button last night and it seems I didn’t! Sorry about that guys. I chose to post this particular quote because it runs along the same lines of what I’ve been pondering over most of the week…heck most of the time, at any given time. You may have heard me say this before, but these type of things require reiteration.

As long as you keep your eye on the ball, your mind focused on the target, and your thoughts the way you want them to be, everything will fall into place…

Happy Wednesday.

– Rego

Rego's Life

Episodic Musings of a Quintessential Entrepreneur

Tag Archives: episodic musings of a quintessential entrepreneur

For The Weekenders: Medicinal Cocktails in Miami, Water Taxi Rides in San Fran, Vino in Chicago

“Always be yourself…

Musings Episode 12: Location, Location, Location…

“The greatest way…

Musings Episode 11: Cars and Status Quo…

“When you are…

Musings Episode 10: Clothes Make The Man…Woman…Person.

Musings Episode 9: Fitness, Stress, and Finances…

For The Weekenders: J-Land Special…Part 2

“If one advances…

Related articles

Related articles