As a loyal American Express card member for 35 years, I’m still discovering many untapped benefits and privileges. With my increased travel, I started investigating and quickly realized I had been overlooking many services and benefits that American Express offers its cardholders. In this article, I will share how not fully understanding your card-member advantages parallels not fully understanding the privileges we have in life.
Being an American Express card member without understanding all of your benefits and privileges is like not knowing your benefits and privileges as a human being in several ways:
1. Potential Left Untapped: Just as you might miss out on rewards, discounts, and services offered by your American Express card due to lack of awareness, you might also miss out on personal growth, opportunities, and rights if you’re not fully aware of your human potential and capabilities.
2. Enhanced Experience: Knowing and utilizing the full range of your card’s benefits can greatly enhance your financial and lifestyle experiences, much like understanding and embracing your personal strengths and rights can lead to a more fulfilling and empowered life.
3. Value Realization: Both scenarios involve recognizing the true value of what you have. With your American Express card, it’s about financial perks and services. As a human being, it’s about realizing your worth, potential, and the unique contributions you can make.
4. Empowerment Through Knowledge: Being informed about your card’s benefits empowers you to make better financial decisions. Similarly, being knowledgeable about your personal rights and potential empowers you to navigate life more confidently and assertively.
5. Maximizing Opportunities: Just as understanding your card’s privileges allows you to maximize your financial opportunities, understanding your human benefits and privileges allows you to maximize personal and professional opportunities in your life.
In conclusion, just as my journey of uncovering the hidden privileges of being an American Express cardholder has enriched my travel experiences and financial well-being, recognizing and embracing the unseen benefits and opportunities in our lives can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. By staying curious and proactive, we can tap into a wealth of advantages that enhance our lives in unexpected ways. Don’t let these opportunities go unnoticed—explore, discover, and make the most of every benefit, both as a cardholder and as an individual.

American Express #AmericanExpress #UnlockYourBenefits #CardMemberPerks #LifePrivileges #TravelBenefits #FinancialWellness #DiscoverOpportunities #MaximizeRewards #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #CuriosityLeadsToSuccess

​While I prefer remote working and will likely never accept a job that requires me to physically go into the office, I have appreciated certain cultural aspects of my former employer. One key aspect that I particularly enjoyed was the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council, on which I was a part of the inaugural launch. When aligning with a company, its culture and core values are crucial considerations for me before accepting an offer. In this article, I will share some key factors I believe one should consider when building a relationship with an organization. Sometimes, it’s not just about the financial compensation but also about the company’s culture, core values, and the support it provides to its employees both individually and collectively.
In a company culture, several key elements are essential to me, reflecting both my values and aspirations for a positive and productive work environment.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
A diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace is fundamental. It is important to me that the company actively promotes diversity in all forms and ensures that everyone feels valued and respected. This involves not just hiring diverse talent but also fostering an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and all employees have equal opportunities to succeed.
Transparency:
Transparency within the organization is crucial. I value open communication where leadership shares company goals, challenges, and successes with employees. This openness builds trust, encourages engagement, and aligns everyone toward common objectives.
Seamless Processes:
Efficient and seamless processes are vital for productivity and morale. I appreciate a company that continually evaluates and improves its workflows to minimize unnecessary bureaucracy and empower employees to focus on high-impact tasks.
Collaborative Work Groups:
Collaboration is at the heart of innovation and problem-solving. I thrive in environments where teamwork is encouraged, and cross-functional teams work together towards shared goals. Collaborative work groups promote creativity, diverse perspectives, and a sense of community.
Work-Life Balance:
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for long-term productivity and well-being. I value companies that recognize the importance of flexibility and provide employees with the time and resources to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.
Employee Health and Wellness Initiatives:
A company that prioritizes employee health and wellness demonstrates a commitment to its people. Access to wellness programs, mental health support, and a healthy work environment are important to me, as they contribute to overall job satisfaction and performance.
Personal and Professional Development Programs:
Continuous learning and growth are vital for both personal and professional fulfillment. I look for companies that invest in their employees’ development through training programs, mentorship opportunities, and clear career advancement paths. This commitment to growth helps employees stay engaged and excel in their roles.
In summary, a company culture that embodies diversity, equity, inclusion, transparency, seamless processes, collaborative work groups, work-life balance, health and wellness initiatives, and opportunities for personal and professional development is one where I can thrive and contribute meaningfully.


Regina Dillard is the founder of Home & Abroad Global Concierge Service, offering exceptional domestic and international services tailored to her clients' needs.  She specializes in house sitting, pet setting, meal planning, and virtual assistance support. Additionally, Regina is a plant-based chef,  creator of Gigi's Vegan Brands, author, wellness advocate, content creator for Inner Sanctum Wellness, Conscious Community Magazine, and workshop demo instructor for Veggie Fest Chicago. Website
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Recently, a San Francisco-area client secured my housesitting services which included a pet. One thing I keep in mind, housesitting and dog sitting are responsibilities that go beyond just occupying a space or providing basic care. When it comes to my furry friends, maintaining their routine is crucial for their well-being and happiness. Here’s why sticking to a dog’s eating, feeding, watering, and treat schedule is essential.
1. Consistency Reduces Stress
Dogs thrive on routine. They are creatures of habit and can become anxious or stressed when their schedule is disrupted. By keeping to their usual feeding and watering times, you provide a sense of normalcy that helps them feel secure and comfortable.
2. Digestive Health
A consistent feeding schedule supports a dog’s digestive health. Regular meal times help regulate their metabolism and digestion, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues. Abrupt changes in diet or feeding times can lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, or constipation.
3. Behavioral Stability
Dogs can exhibit behavioral changes when their routine is altered. By adhering to their established schedule, you minimize the chances of undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, or restlessness. This stability is especially important when they are in a new environment or missing their owners.
4. Hydration and Health
Proper hydration is vital for a dog’s health. Ensuring that fresh water is available at regular intervals helps prevent dehydration and promotes overall well-being. Monitoring their water intake can also alert you to potential health issues.
5. Treats as Positive Reinforcement
Treats are not just a delight for dogs; they are often used as positive reinforcement for good behavior. Keeping to the usual treat schedule reinforces training and ensures the dog continues to associate good behavior with rewards.
6. Trust and Bonding
Maintaining a dog’s routine helps build trust between the sitter and the dog. The dog learns to rely on you for their needs, which strengthens the bond and makes the experience more enjoyable for both parties.
Conclusion
A house or dog sitter's role is to provide a seamless transition for the pet. By sticking to their established eating, feeding, watering, and treat schedule, you contribute to their physical health, emotional well-being, and overall happiness. This attention to detail ensures that the dog remains comfortable and stress-free, making your housesitting or dogsitting experience successful and rewarding.​

Traveling Soon? Put your home and pets in the hands of a trusted sitter. Learn more about Home & Abroad Global Concierge