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  • 50 Gratitude Journal Prompts To Help You Live Your Dream Life

    50 Gratitude Journal Prompts To Help You Live Your Dream Life

    Being grateful in your daily life can positively change the outlook you have on life. Today we’ll be sharing some gratitude journal prompts that will help you realize all the things you have to be grateful for.

    Do you practice gratitude on a daily basis or do you just wait till Thanksgiving day before you express thankfulness for all you’ve got? I hope the former is the case!

    But if you are the type that seldom appreciates how far you’ve come and what you have, then it’s time to adjust your focus and learn the art of gratitude. 

    Now I’m pretty sure you have come across journal prompts. They are simply known as statements or questions designed to inspire or offer you an idea on what to write about. 

    One of the ways to keep track of one’s life is by journaling. Journaling helps you to actively engage your thoughts and be in touch with your feelings. It boosts your emotional intelligence and strengthens your self discipline. Plus, journaling provides you with a creativity boost and helps you understand yourself better. Pretty great, yeah? 

    However, not everyone understands how to keep a journal. In fact, most people are oblivious of its benefits and believe it’s for childish individuals. But the reverse is the case! 

    Nowadays, it’s easy to get lost in the stream of bad media, crazy internet, disheartening news and other forms of negativity. We tend to forget the great things life has given us and focus more on the negative and what is yet to be accomplished. 

    This often has us wondering, is there anything to be grateful for? Well, a surf through some gratitude journal prompts can answer that. Gratitude journaling simply entails keeping track of things for which one is grateful for. It’s like keeping a diary of the good things and the great experiences you’ve had.

    Gratitude journaling will shift your focus from the negatives and help you see things from a brighter and, of course, positive viewpoint. In fact, research on positive psychology has shown that gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. 

     

     

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    Benefits Of Gratitude Journal Prompts

    I’m sure you can’t wait to explore the 50 gratitude journal prompts I’ve got in store for you. But before we do, let’s have a quick run-through some of the amazing benefits gratitude journaling has got to offer.

    • You become positive minded – Taking out time to put into writing the things you are grateful for will help you on your way to becoming more positive minded. Focusing on the goods things you have and appreciate will help you see life from the positive and optimistic point of view. The more appreciative you choose to be, the more optimistic and positive you become.
    • You become happier – Having a diary of things you’re grateful for is one way of living a happy life. Gratitude journal prompts will help you focus more on the good things, be optimistic for better things and ultimately live a happier life.
    • Improves your self esteem – Gratitude journaling is a great way to build one’s self esteem. Research has shown that folks who keep daily gratitude journals increase overall gratitude, positivity, enthusiasm, determination and alertness. As you go through each of these gratitude journal prompts, you get to be reminded of your abilities, skills and personal achievements. This will greatly help in building your self confidence.
    • Helps to reduce stress – Since  gratitude journal prompts are a great way to help you see how far you’ve come and how much you have achieved, they will also help you ease the worry and the anxiety of thinking about what you are yet to have. 

    You become more appreciative of who you are and less worked up about who you’re not. Also, studies have shown that focusing on feelings of contentment and satisfaction naturally counters stress. So, gratitude journaling will help you counter stress, feel more relaxed and eradicate anxiety.

    We can go on and on about the benefits gratitude journaling has got to offer, but guess what? Time is no one’s friend! So what are we waiting for? Let’s get on with it!

     

     

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

     

     

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    Gratitude Journal Prompts: 

    1. Describe your happiest childhood memory.

    2. What popular song do you enjoy most and why do you like it?

    3. What is one of your favorite songs from your childhood?

    4. Mention that one friend you can always rely on.

    5. Write down the biggest accomplishment in your personal life.

    6. What is the biggest accomplishment in your professional life?

    7. What memory of your father (or stepfather) do you cherish most?

    8. What memory of your mother (or stepmother?) do you cherish most?

    9. Give a description of your favorite pet (or former pet)? Why was it your favorite?

    10. Write out 5 hobbies and activities that bring you joy.

    11. What mistake(s) have you made that ultimately led to a positive experience? Write them out.

    12. Describe a family tradition that you are most grateful for and why you’re grateful for it.

    13. Write out the name(s) of the teacher(s) or mentor(s)  that made a remarkable impact on your life and how they have helped you.

    14. Write out what you like the most about your town or city and why it’s topping the list of your faves.

    15. Describe your favorite spot at home and why you like it.

    16. Write down that one thing you have learnt this week that you’re grateful for.

    17. Who made you smile in the past 24 hours and why?

    18. What recent purchase did you make that has added value to your life?

    19. Write out the biggest lesson you learned in childhood.

    20. Write out 10 ways you can share your gratitude with other people in the next 24 hours.

    21. What is your favorite scent?

    22.Describe your favorite sound.

    23. Describe your favorite image.

    24. Describe your favorite taste.

    25. Describe your favorite sensation.

    26. What items do you take for granted, which might not be available to people in other parts of the world (i.e. Clean water, electricity, etc.)?

    27.Write about a recent time when a stranger did something nice for you.

    28. What is the hardest thing you’ve had to do, which led to a major personal accomplishment?

    29.What is one aspect of your health that you’re more grateful for?

    30. Who can you count on whenever you need someone to talk to and why?

    31. Describe the last time you procrastinated on a task that wasn’t as difficult as you thought it would be.

    32.What is your favorite habit and why is it an important part of your daily routine?

    33. Describe a “perfect day” that you recently had.

    34. What is a favorite country that you’ve visited?

    35. Describe a funny YouTube video that you recently watched. (If you haven’t, what are you doing on this planet?)

    36. List 10 qualities you like about yourself.

    37. What is one thing you look forward to enjoying each day after work?

    38. What was something you did for the first time recently?

    39. What is one lesson you learn from rude people? 

    40. When was the last time you had a great nap where you awoke feeling fully refreshed?

    41. Shower or bath? Which do you prefer and why?

    42. Write about a time where you felt courageous.

    43. What are a few ways you can appreciate your health whenever you’re sick?

    44. What is a great drink that you like to enjoy each day?

    46.Who has forgiven you for a mistake you’ve made in the past?

    47. List 10 things you have now that you didn’t have 5 years ago.

    48. What aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?

    49. What is something positive you can learn from one of your negative qualities? (e.g. Being anxious means you’re really good at planning things out.)

    50. Describe a recent time when you truly felt at peace.

     

     

    For You

    Trust you had a great time appreciating the amazing things you have? Always remember that gratitude is a powerful tool when it comes to living a fulfilled and content life. 

    While going through your gratitude journal prompts, always keep in mind that life is not a bed of roses, no one is perfect so don’t expect your answers to be. You’ve come a long way and you are doing just fine, so be grateful for that. 

    Finally, if you’ve had a bad day and you might want to remind yourself of how great you are doing, going through the 50 journal prompts and some of these gratitude quotes below will be a perfect jump start.

     

     

    Gratitude Quotes

    “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” ― Melody Beattie

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

    “Being thankful is not always experienced as a natural state of existence, we must work at it, akin to a type of strength training for the heart.” ― Larissa Gomez

    “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” – Thornton Wilder

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

    “Gratitude is the sweetest thing in a seeker’s life – in all human life. If there is gratitude in your heart, then there will be tremendous sweetness in your eyes.” ― Sri Chinmoy

    “The more grateful I am, the more beauty I see.” ― Mary Davis

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

    “The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated.” ― William James

    “There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy.” ― Ralph H. Blum

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

    “Gratitude is the most exquisite form of courtesy.” ― Jacques Maritain

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

    “The root of joy is gratefulness.” ― David Steindl-Rast

    Gratitude Journal Prompts

     

     

    Final Thoughts

    The truth is, sometimes we get so clouded by everything that’s not going our way that we just can’t see what is actually working for us. There’s no such thing as a life that’s better than yours! (Okay yeah those are song lyrics but you get it). 

    You know what’s funny? You might be walking or taking a bus to work complaining that you don’t have a car and you’ve got nothing going for you. Meanwhile, someone else is devastated about losing their job. And then again, someone else would do anything to walk again. 

    It all boils down to perspective and appreciating the little things. When you do, big things come your way, and only then will you be able to be grateful for those too. So, say a word of thanks today, or better still, journal it!

     

     

    Please pin & share these gratitude journal prompts!

    Gratitude Journal Prompts
  • Positive Thinking Tips: 15 Ways To Boost Positive Thinking

    Positive Thinking Tips: 15 Ways To Boost Positive Thinking

    The best possible attitude that anyone could adopt is the attitude of an optimist. The attitude of a positive thinker. Today I’ll be sharing some positive thinking tips you can adopt to be more happy overall in your daily life.

    With a positive attitude, you will think more constructively and meaningfully. And, life will be a whole lot better.

    Being a positive thinker is synonymous with being a believer. You’ll make moves that most people wouldn’t dare to make. You will take new paths and reach a particular destination you crave for.

    Besides, you won’t be scared of any failure or setback that you might encounter. You will typically feel motivated to keep taking action! 

    So, the power of positive thinking is insurmountable!  As a positive thinker, you’re literally unstoppable.

     

     

    Positive Thinking Tips

    The question now is; how do you develop this vital mindset? How do you become a positive thinker? 

    The key is; you have to shun being pessimistic. But how?

    Well, in this article, I will highlight 15 positive thinking tips that will help you move your life from a pessimistic end to an optimistic end. Ladies and gentlemen, shall we?

     

     

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    1. Start By Replacing The Negativity In Your Life 

    Want to develop a positive mindset? Then start shaking off negativity from your life. Be mindful of the thoughts you contain in your mind! Or the people you keep close to yourself.

    Start by asking yourself; what are the 3 main streams of Negativity in my life? It could be a friend, or the books you read, the podcast you listen to, even the movies you watch or the blogs you visit! (No worries, you’re safe with this one.)

    Whatever they are, once you are able to identify them (the 3 main sources of negativity), then start eliminating them.

    How do you go about this?

    First, generate ideas on how to limit the time you spend on those sources of negativity. Write down any idea(s) you come up with (this is necessary so you don’t forget easily). Then plan on how to execute those ideas.

    Now, the next thing is to channel your valuable time to more positive things…

    Related: How To Remove Negativity From Your Life And Be Happier

     

     

    2. Always Focus On The Good Side Of A Situation 

    Another great positive thinking tip is to always find the good side of any situation.

    You see, the main difference between a positive-minded person and a pessimist is their perceptions! Their difference comes from how they view things and how they choose to understand.

    Typically, pessimists will rather give up along the way when they face obstacles. They will see no reason to keep pushing. They will simply feel like the only alternative when they feel stuck is to quit.

    But that’s not a thing for a positive thinker. 

    Positive thinkers are optimists. They always believe that there is a way out of any problem. A way to resolve any issue and keep pushing. They don’t simply back down.

    If you really want to delve into the positive side of life, then you must find a way to stay up when life hits you hard. When faced with a negative situation, you have to focus on the positive side. 

    Did you lose a job? Remember you are alive and you can always get a new job with your qualifications. So, stay up and keep pushing.

    Did you lose a friend or someone close to you? Sure, you still have the good memories to hold on to. Those good memories should be your consolation.

    Just so you know, any negative situation can be handled if you learn how to focus on the good side.

    Always find a way to stand up and stay up.

     

     

    3. Forgive Yourself 

    No matter how hard you try, sometimes your BEST might not be good enough. As a matter of fact, your failure might be due to inescapable circumstances or maybe as a result of your own mistake.

    Sure, it’s normal to blame yourself for certain shortcomings, but don’t do it for long! If you really want to be positive, you have to learn how to forgive yourself and move on. Blaming yourself for so long and holding on to that failure will only lead to self-destruction.

     

     

    4. Give Yourself Some Credit 

    Due to frustration or dissatisfaction, we often forget the things we did right. We tend to focus on our inadequacies and feel like we are not good enough. 

    Well, if I must say, that is a very negative way of living! Just like you take the blame for being wrong, also learn to give yourself some credit for a little progress. You truly deserve it.

    Even if you’ve messed up in certain aspects, you have to feel a bit complacent where you got them right. That’s a good way to stay motivated to even get better.

     

     

    Positive thinking tips

     

     

    5. Learn From Your Past Mistakes 

    Your past mistakes are not there for you to hold on to. They are there for you to learn from! 

    Our brains are wired to repeat what we find convenient. Now, if your mistakes happened because you got so comfortable, you might repeat those mistakes a thousand more times (where you failed to LEARN from them).

    The past is gone. So, no matter how much that particular mistake hurts, you can’t change what happened. 

    You can only learn from the mistake by:

    • Understanding why it happened in the first place, and then 
    • Changing the behavior that resulted in the mistake.

     

     

    6. List Your Strengths 

    Pessimism at times might force you to start thinking that you can’t do it, that you can’t achieve it. That the goal is too much for you to reach. Or that you don’t have what it takes…

    But no!

    There are thousands of capacities inside of you, waiting to be triggered and explored. You have to remind yourself what you are capable of.

    I will give a little illustration;

    Let’s say you are seeking a position in a reputable multinational firm, and your gut is letting you down, then you have to create a list of those strengths you’ve got; those certifications that qualify you for the position; those raw skills or talents you’ve got.

    Also, list out the experiences you’ve gathered over the years. This will help you to focus on the reason why you will be hired. Not the reason why you won’t. And of course, that’s a typical way of being positive!

    You’ll be motivated to take the bold step. 

     

     

    7. Acknowledge Your Weaknesses 

    One of the best positive thinking tips is to admit your weaknesses. A positive-minded person always wants to improve. But there is no way you can ever improve if you don’t accept your shortcomings. 

    The advice here is that you have to take note of the things you are not good at, then work hard and improve on them.

    This will make you a more sophisticated person. You’ll be well-versed and your confidence will improve. But remember, it all starts with acknowledging your shortcomings. 

    Related: 11 Tips On How To Invest In Yourself And Change Your Life

     

     

    8. Speak Positively

    What you speak determines what you have in your mind. So, there is a strong connection between the words you speak and the kind of mindset you have.

    A positive minded person will only speak positive words at all times. If you are used to negative speech, then get intentional about the words you speak.

    Where you used to say; I can’t, learn how to start saying; I can. Where you used to say; it’s impossible, start saying; I see possibilities. 

    If you can start practicing positive speech, it won’t be long before you start thinking positively. Can I get an amen, somebody?

     

     

    9. Always Work Out 

    Experts suggest that working out does not only build your body but your mind as well. So, regular exercise won’t only make you shed some body weight. It also alleviates your mental burden!

    When you’re drained mentally and a wave of negative feelings seems to occupy your mind, just 15-30 minutes of physical activities can go a long way to set your mind free.

    Regular workouts will help in building your sense of determination. Also, with periodic exercises, you will start focusing on something else… Not just negative thoughts. 

    Exercising regularly is easily a positive habit that results in positive thinking.

    Related: Easy Ways To Be More Active Without Going To Gym

     

     

    10. Stop Making A Big Deal Out Of Nothing 

    This is one issue many people have to deal with. There are certain insignificant incidents that we face at times but we end up making a big deal out of them. 

    You’re probably familiar with that feeling when you make a minor error (let’s say, at work), then you get so afraid it might cause the management to fire you. That’s a typical example of making a mountain out of a molehill. 

    This kind of behavior is typical of a pessimist. Don’t be that person anymore.

     

     

    11. Focus On The Present 

    Sometimes, concentrating on the present is all you need in order to discard any negative thoughts arising from the past or regarding the future. 

    A popular saying has it that; the past is gone, the future is yet to come, but the most valuable commodity you have is TODAY and that is why it is called PRESENT. 

    Therefore, learn to make the most of your present situation. Learn to concentrate on what happens in your life today. That’s one of the best positive thinking tips you should embrace. 

     

     

    12.  Bring Positivity Into Other People’s Lives

    The fact remains that; you get what you give.

    If you really want to break free from the shackles of negative thoughts, then start by extending positive gestures to others. It’s just simple psychology. 

    When you light up other people’s lives, you’ll definitely feel good about yourself. And that pleasant feeling is bound to trigger the positive mindset in you.

    To do this, start by helping those in need; not necessarily monetary help. 

    For instance, someone may be in need of your comfort or companionship during hard times. Surely, if they can rely on you in such situations, they will value you. Consequently, you’ll value yourself a little bit more too.

     

     

    13. Take Things Slowly 

    Going fast in life seems all nice and cool. But going too fast is negative. When lots of things start happening in your life because of too much haste, it often doesn’t end well. 

    In such situations, you start having accumulated stress both physically and mentally. You won’t be prudent enough to judge right. You’ll lose your acumen. And most likely, lots of negative thoughts and emotions will flood your mind.

    It’s nobody’s fault but yours. You rush a lot!

    Learn to calm down a bit and take things gradually. This way, you’ll be meticulous enough to make the right decisions in life. 

     

     

    14. Start Your Day On A Good Note 

    How you start your day goes a long way to determine the outcome of your entire day. This might sound bizarre, but it’s true.

    For that reason, always start your day on a positive note.

    Some helpful ways to start your day are:

    • Walk up to the mirror and tell yourself something positive
    • Reminisce and ponder on any useful information that will positively affect your day
    • Engage in early morning exercise 
    • Listen to a motivational podcast or video
    • Make your bed
    • Declutter quickly
    • Meditate/Pray

    Ensure you practice some (if not all) of these every morning. There is no positive thinking tip that can be more useful than starting your day well.

    Related: Morning Habits To Supercharge Your Day With Positivity

     

     

    15. Seek To Be Positively Inspired 

    Yes. One of the best ways to change from pessimism to optimism is by seeking inspiration from positive sources.

    You can find yourself a mentor who will inspire you to think positively. You can read motivational books or listen to inspirational podcasts. 

    There are various other ways you can get inspired positively. Just seek such inspirations and you will surely break into the positive realm of life. 

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Applying all these positive thinking tips might not be all that easy (actually, not easy at all) because it has to do with a shift of mindset. But no matter how difficult it might be, once you get intentional about actualizing that shift, it will become a lot easier!

     

     

    Please pin & share these positive thinking tips!

    If these positive thinking tips were helpful to you in any way, please take a moment to pin this post to your personal development board on Pinterest. You can also share it to your favorite social media platform. Thank you!

    Positive thinking tips
  • How To Get Your Life Together When It Feels Out Of Control

    How To Get Your Life Together When It Feels Out Of Control

    Life is a long journey. And it’s not always smooth. It can sometimes be quite a roller coaster (if I do say so myself). Some days are filled with pleasant excitement. In such cases, we just wish it never ends. But there are other days when everything seems to be in shambles. And at that point, we wonder if we can ever get out of that day fast enough. Today I’ll be sharing some tips on how to get your life together and back on track when your life feels chaotic.

    It’s a pretty common experience in life to find yourself in some kind of slum and feel stuck. Although it might be really difficult to put things in order, no matter where you are in life, you CAN get your life together again.

    One thing you should know about getting your life together is that it’s not abrupt. It is a process…a continuous process. And hence, we have the good and bad days, the sunny and rainy days.

    Sometimes, you’ll feel like you can single handedly take the world by storm. Other times the ferocity of life leaves you so lonely and terrified. 

    But then there is a possibility that nowadays, you see more of those horrible days than you ever saw the good days and now, you want solutions on how to break free.

    Since your search for a solution brought you here, then you took the right step! Join me as I go over some practical ways to get your life back on track, no matter what happened in the past. We move.

     

     

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    1. Examine The Categories Of Your Life 

    Hey, so I’m sure you know that to ascertain  results or causal factors, an examination is always required.

    You undergo a school examination to ascertain how much knowledge you’ve acquired over a given period of time (that’s debatable but maybe some other time?). When you fall sick, you go through a medical examination to ascertain the cause of the disease.

    The reason I’m putting this on top of the list is that in order to solve any problem, you have to find out the cause first. Now, in order to get your life back on track, you have to start by finding out WHY you are stuck in the first place. 

    And there is no better way to find out why than to examine the 8 categories of your life. The 8 life categories encompass virtually all aspects of your life; making it quite comprehensive.

    If you can effectively examine and evaluate these life categories, there is no way you won’t find out the cause(s) of your problems, and hence the solution won’t be so far away.

    These are the 8 Life Categories you must evaluate:

    • Business/Career 
    • Wealth/Finances 
    • Family/Friends 
    • Recreation/Fun/Entertainment 
    • Fitness/Health 
    • Love Life 
    • Spiritual/Personal Development 
    • Physical/Environmental Aspect. 

    After identifying those 8 areas of your life, you have to evaluate them by creating a vision for each. In each of the categories, ask yourself:

    • What have I done wrong here?
    • How do I make amends?
    • What do I want to achieve? 
    • Where do I want to be?

    By asking these questions, you will easily evaluate how you are performing presently and why. Then moving forward becomes easier. 

     

     

    2. Routinize Your Day 

    Remember, it’s all about getting your life together. So, if your activities can be routinized, you will feel better for sure. This is because a TASK feels more difficult to accomplish than a ROUTINE. 

    To routinize your day, you have to start from the very moment you wake up from sleep. Preferably, you can start with less difficult activities, maybe a minor exercise will do for a morning routine. 

    Then get to the main activities for the day. Take them one activity after another until evening. Yeah, evening routines are special too. One of the best night activities you could adopt is to prepare for the next day. It makes tomorrow less terrifying or occupied.

    The more your routines are constant (continuous or uninterrupted), the easier your life becomes. 

    When you wake up every day familiar with all your to-dos, life will definitely be less overwhelming. 

    However, changing your routines from time to time won’t be a bad idea. Because it’s possible to feel bored after repeating the same line of activities day-in-day-out. 

    A switch in daily routines at times can help get your life up (just as much as routines do). 

    Related: Top 10 Morning Habits To Supercharge Your Day

     

     

    How To Get Your Life Together

     

     

    3. Get Clear With Your Goals 

    The whole idea of setting a goal is to give us a clear direction towards achieving what we want. Of course, it’s easier to have dreams of what you want to be, but it is quite difficult to achieve those dreams if you don’t have a clear goal (and planned actions) on how to go about it. 

    I’m sure you don’t want to wander for ages without vision or direction. You will definitely not reach your destination. That’s exactly what happens to you if you have no clear goal.

    How to go about goal-setting?

    First, take 30 minutes of your time to search through your mind. Then, write down the things you really want to achieve by the end of next week or next month or even next year. The third (and a very vital step) is to come up with a strategy; the day-to-day activities you must embark on towards achieving the stated goal(s).

    Moreover, you must revisit your strategy from time to time to ensure that you are on the right track and to make some adjustments if need be. 

     

     

    4. Have A Priority List 

    If you really want to get your life together, then it’s high time you stopped biting off more than you can chew. Often we set many more goals than we can achieve. And in the process of chasing the multiple goals, we get stuck without any significant achievement! It’s quite sad. 

    For instance, you can recall how busy most people are every 31st Of December, trying to create certain resolutions that they will end up not executing.

    If you really want to put things in place and get your life a bit simpler, you have to prioritise. If possible, set only a goal for a given period of time. Focusing on a goal makes it more feasible to achieve.  

     

     

    5. Learn How To Be Productive

    Productivity comes before fulfilment. Nobody can truly say they have attained self-actualization without being productive in the first place. 

    Unfortunately, productivity doesn’t come easy and most of us struggle with it. We strive so hard and many times, we fail to achieve our desires. Apparently, that’s why we feel like our life is falling apart.

    But come to think of it, how can you be productive when you often start up something and leave it halfway and then delve into something else…only to forget the one you started initially?

    Such an attitude to work will never yield any positive results. Instead, you will feel disorganised by it. In order to become more productive, you need a little bit of patience and determination. You need that resilience to finish up any task you start. 

    There are lots of books and internet materials like this one that will help you to take the right steps towards productivity. 

    Related: 10 Effective Time Management Tips That Really Work

     

     

    6. Organize Your Finances 

    The financial aspect of your life is something you mustn’t joke with. 

    It’s not always easy to keep your finances in order. Handling money is not child’s play. And hence, most of us have our fair share of mismanaging money; if not all the time, then at least once in our lifetime. 

    Fortunately, money management – saving and budgeting – is something you can get good at (that is, if you really want to).

    However, it doesn’t just come to us, it requires constant effort! 

    As a matter of fact, one of the basic goals you should set in order to get your life together is to organise your finances. 

    Start by developing an action plan for money management. 

    On every payday, probably the end of the month, take out a portion of your income for savings. The higher the amount you can muster for savings, the better. Then remove the amount you need for your recurrent monthly expenses. Any remainder afterward can then be used for fun, entertainment, or emergency.

    If you can make it a goal to follow this procedure every month, your finances will definitely get better. 

    Related: 20 Things To Stop Buying To Save Money Starting Today

     

     

    7. Invest In Your Health 

    Health, they say is wealth (sigh, if only they meant that literally, I’d be rich!)

    The most direct way to invest in your life is by investing in your health. In other words, to get your life up and running, your health must be in one piece.

    Most times, people take their health for granted. However, the importance of good health will resonate with you as you get older. By then, you’ll realise that you can no longer do certain things you used to do freely. 

    Unfortunately, old-age is not the perfect time to start taking care of yourself. You have to start now… As early as possible. By doing so, you will feel great even when you get older.

    A proper way to start investing in your health is by adopting healthy lifestyles such as:

    • Exercising regularly
    • Eating healthily
    • Drinking enough water
    • Taking supplements
    • Going for medical check-ups
    • Avoiding alcohol & cigarettes 
    • Avoiding excessive sugar and fats
    • Visiting the hospital once you fall sick, etc.

    Undoubtedly, you will benefit a lot by living a healthy life. 

    First, your weight will be under control. As a matter of fact, you have little or no chance of being obese just by embracing a healthy lifestyle. Also, a healthy way of living will improve your mood. You will simply be happier.

    Moreover, certain diseases like; diabetes, arthritis, depression, cancer, will be prevented. As long as you make healthier choices and invest in your health as much as you can, you will definitely live comfortably enough to get your life together. 

     

     

    8. Declutter Your Space 

    Sometimes, the reason you feel like your life is messed up is quite simple;  you’re in a mess. A dirty environment will never benefit you. It generally affects your vibe, your mood, your aura, your temperament… Even your health!

    To get your life together, you shouldn’t only focus intrinsically. Sometimes, our environment goes a long way to affect how we feel within.

    Decluttering your environment from time to time is quite necessary. It not only provides you a clean space to live happily but also improves the state of your mind. 

    Therefore, use certain days within the week to clean your home (both the interior and exterior). Also, discard all those properties you no longer need. They clutter the little space you have and make you feel clogged.

    What do you stand to gain from decluttering? Well, there are a whole lot of benefits that come with decluttering. Some are physical, others are psychological. 

    Physically, a clean home reduces exposure to surface germs and resultantly, reduces the risk of infections. Psychologically, a clean, spacious environment improves concentration, reduces stress levels, improves mood, and most importantly, the quality of your sleep will be transformed. 

     

     

    9. Make Time For Yourself 

    This might be last on this list but definitely one of the most important steps to take.

    Many times, life can get so crazy!

    You find yourself paying lots of attention to work, family, and other responsibilities. You get so engrossed and busy so as to make ends meet. But then, you need to pause…

    Take a break.

    Remember to give yourself some time. Your body needs it!

    Use that little break time to prioritize yourself. Self-care is something that should be on your list of priorities. No matter how busy you are, create a little time to care for yourself. 

    Once you learn how to give yourself some time amidst all difficulties, it won’t be long before you start feeling like things are beginning to fall in place for you. Just try it out.

    Related: 30 Easy Ways To Practice Self Care

     

     

    Final thoughts

    There’s a whole lot more that will help you put your life in one piece. However, above all, learn to be kind and never be too hard on yourself. Always take it one step at a time.

    Remember, getting your life together is a continuous process!

     

     

    Don’t forget to pin & share these tips to get your life together this year!

    How To Get Your Life Together
  • 15 Ways To Improve Your Happiness And Enjoy Your Life

    15 Ways To Improve Your Happiness And Enjoy Your Life

    There’s always a bluish feeling that comes with pessimism. In an era where everywhere you turn to is filled with pessimism and toxicity, sometimes, it’s hard to look on the bright side. But, it’s very possible! Today I’m sharing some of my top tips on how to improve your happiness and enjoy your life.

    Happiness is free! So instead of just trying to avoid negativity or get over the toxicity making rounds, focusing on the positive will be our mainstay. 

    In light of this, I’ll be sharing some sweet tips on how to increase your happiness. And since the goal is not only to get you excited and lift your spirit for a moment, with the tips enlisted below, I’m optimistic that you’ll stay happy too!

     

     

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    1. Have A Heart Of Gratitude

    Cherish and be proud of what you have, as well as the effort you put into things. It’s so easy to get caught up with disappointments we face on a daily basis and welcome pessimism with open arms.

     We are not going to do that. Look within you, look around you, there are a lot of things to be grateful for. No matter how little they might be, don’t take those things for granted. It’s alright to want things for yourself  and want to work harder to get them but make sure you take a minute or two to be thankful for how far you have come.  

    When you appreciate the things you have, you’ll worry less about what you don’t have (worry won’t get you anywhere or anything though, just more worries). Less worry is ultimately a great way to improve your happiness.

     

     

    2. Comparison Is A Killer Of Joy

    I can’t emphasize this enough! We are in the age where the world is populated with “social pressures”  especially on social media. Everyone seems to be in the happiest relationships and have the best of friends.

    Some seem to use the latest gadgets, travel on private jets and wear the latest designer clothes. And here you are with a “stuck in one place” kind of feeling. It’s like the whole world is getting their act together quite well, save you.

     Now, don’t be swept off your feet by those things. FACADE is the right word for them. You’re doing just fine, and the less attention you pay to those things, the better you will do. If you want to improve your happiness, be content.

    Contentment in this case is not about being content with everything life throws at you. It’s having a sense of satisfaction that when life throws you a lemon, you make a lemonade (not throw the lemon away and sulk).

    Never compare yourself to anyone, your goals, aspirations and dreams are different from theirs, let no one set a standard as to how you are to achieve them. 

    Social media is not your life coach. So have a mind of your own. It comes with great peace, you’ll be happier and at ease with yourself, no pressures, no worries, and this will improve your happiness.

     

     

    3. Discard The Retail Theorems

    Material possessions might get you excited the moment they become yours but they won’t always make you happy. It’s not a bad thing to have money and own things but those things won’t guarantee your happiness. 

    So rather than spend money on things, you can choose to spend money on experiences. Go to the zoo, go on movie night outs, road trips aren’t a bad idea, there are a lot of amazing places to tour.

     These activities won’t just bring happy experiences, they’ll also leave loads of sweet memories to savour during a hectic workday.

     

     

    15 Ways To Improve Your Happiness

     

     

    4. Don’t Try Too Hard

    Doing things (movies, karaoke, games) because you find pleasure in them will go a long way to improve your happiness.

    However, there’s a thin line between the things that make you happy and doing things so you’ll be happy. Let me give a clearer picture. If you love going to the movies and watching movies makes you happy, it’s different from going to the movies because you want to be happy. 

    In the former, it comes naturally, however, an expectation is placed on the latter. Recent research made on psychological sciences has shown that putting too much effort on the search for happiness as if it’s on sale can backfire! 

    The problem here is expectations, because you tend to focus on the end result (happiness) rather than the activity itself. It’s the same with people who go into relationships because they believe they’ll be happy. 

    When their expectations are not met, they tend to be thrice as blue as they were before the relationship. Don’t be that person.

     

     

    5. Work Out

     Research and of course every day experiences have shown that exercise is a very effective mood lifter. You don’t necessarily have to hit the gym before you exercise your body. Early morning runs, jogging and even dancing are a good start. 

    You can even create some space in the living room to stretch your muscles while watching your favourite TV show (I’d recommend 10 squats and 15 bicycle crunches for starters). 

     No matter how busy your schedule might get, try to make time out for a little work out at least thrice in a week, it’s a pretty great way to improve your happiness.

     

     

    6. Meditation and reflection 

    An unstable mind breeds confusion and unhappiness.  It’s no news that meditation helps to calm and stabilise our emotional and mental state. Signing up for a yoga class or scheduling 5-15 minutes of self reflection will not only help improve your happiness, it will also give you a sense of direction.

     

     

    7. A touch of Flexibility won’t hurt

    Sometimes, doing the same things and going through the same daily routines can easily get us the blue feeling we dread. Except you’re a die-hard stereotype, sticking with one routine for too long sometimes feels like going round in circles or staying in a box. It can be depressing. 

    The good news is, you can change that narrative. Adding to and swapping some activities for others on your daily routine could be a great mood booster. If you’re used to doing the laundry in the morning and dishes at night, you could swap one for the other. 

    Go through your schedule and make some changes today. Be flexible, be happy!

     

     

    8. You are what you eat

    Do you know that there are foods which produce chemicals that influence a person’s mood? Nutritionists recommend food rich in B-12 and folic acid (oatmeal, wheat germs and other fortified cereals).

     Studies have shown that these nutrients help the body produce a neurotransmitter called serotonin—a known mood stabilizer. Also, food rich in omega-3 fats such as salmon, sardine, olive oils and walnuts help alleviate depression.

    There’s a reason why popcorn is the cliché snack for movies. Chocolates also help a great deal. So you see, the above saying is not just about one’s physical fitness. Ensure you eat well to increase your happiness today.

     

     

    9. Rest Well, Sleep Enough

    We all know that busy schedules could get us crazy hangovers, eye bags and sometimes 3 men banging the heaviest sledge hammers inside our head (yeah, headaches). So, if you don’t get enough sleep and rest, it takes its toll not just on your physical self, but also on your mental wellbeing.

     Restlessness always leaves a trail of fatigue, depression and even lack of satisfaction. The human body, mind and soul need enough rest to be more active and function well. So to be rejuvenated and increase your happiness, ensure you get at least 8 hours of sleep daily.

     

     

    10. Smile

    Hey there! Have you smiled today? Whether you are sipping a cocktail drink in Santiago Bay or counting your blessings on a Sunday morning, or getting through a busy schedule, try to wear a smile. 

    A daily dose of smiling lifts one’s spirit and you’re very likely to make others smile when you do. You see, happiness is free, spread it!

     

     

    11. Do your favorites

    We all like to go to eat our favourite meals, wear our favourite clothes and go to our favourite spot on special occasions. 

    Yeah, they simply make that occasion special and make us happy. But who says you can’t have a special day everyday? No one? Great. So please do you favourites frequently. Don’t wait for special occasions, be happy now.

     

     

    12. Invest In Purposeful Leisure

    Channelling your time, energy and resources into something you like which is usually not a profession or work will make you happier. Purposeful leisure does contribute to one’s personal development and reflects one’s sense of preference. 

    For instance, learning a new skill, trying out a new recipe or sport, taking up a freelance job or signing up for a language course. Doing these things increases one’s happiness and when completed, they bring a feeling of satisfaction.

     

     

    13. Value people that make you happy

    Busy schedule or not, quality time with loved ones and friends that inspire us to be happy should not be taken for granted. Spending time with our loved ones is one of the greatest but most underrated ways of increasing one’s happiness. 

    It is underrated because everyone leads a busy life and people now substitute quality time spent with their loved ones with time spent on social media platforms with strangers thousands of miles away. 

    Having your loved ones present and engaging in activities together helps create a bond and sense of belonging. It somehow gives us a feeling of safety and assurance that  they will always be there for us. 

    Thinking about this in turn brings satisfaction and happiness. Create time out with friends, enjoy the activities, smile, laugh, embrace their  warmth, savour the memories and be happy!

     

     

    14. Celebrate Good Times 

    Doing things that give you nostalgic feelings and remind you of sweet memories are a great mood lifter. They help us reminisce on how far we’ve come and somewhat gives a sense of gratitude which ultimately helps in increasing one’s happiness. 

    Buy scented candles and flowers, look at happy photographs, go to places that remind you of happy memories and think back on positive memories. Indulging the senses goes a long way when it comes to increasing one’s happiness.

     

     

    15. Offer A Hand 

     Coming through for others who are in need can increase your happiness a great deal. Rendering a helping hand somewhat makes us appreciate the life we lead and of course there are many ways to go about it. 

    You can contribute to a community project, walk a pet at animal care, help a coworker fix their computer, be a volunteer teacher at the school for children with special needs or even donate to charity in case you’ve got a really hectic schedule. You will be happy you did.

     

     

    Bonus: Be purpose driven

    Not just doing things but understanding why you do them is another great way to improve your happiness. To be happy, you need to know what you want, how and when you want it. The people who wallow in comparison and are easily swerved by others are those who don’t have a set purpose. They are usually confused and end up being sad and even depressed. 

    As a  purpose driven persona, you set goals and create plans to achieve them. You have a sense of direction, you know what you want and you go for it. You are not confused or under pressure, you are simply content, satisfied and happy!

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Finally, to stay happy, you have to come to the realisation that you cannot have it all your way. Every situation, every  thought, every expectation and every action cannot go your way. As humans,  we tend to let what we cannot control or change, our pasts and mistakes affect our happiness.

     Yes, we could have said and done things differently, but then, it is what it is. We have to move on and learn from the outcome. Remember worrying and anxiety won’t help or provide a solution. In fact, they tend to add more problems. 

    Happiness, they say, is a product of positivity, so choose to be positive. Rather than  beat yourself up over mistakes or get anxious about the future, understanding all these valuable tips and putting them into practice will help a great deal in increasing your happiness.

     

     

    Please pin & share these tips to improve your happiness!

    15 Ways To Improve Your Happiness
  • How To Visualize Success In Order To Achieve The Results You Want

    How To Visualize Success In Order To Achieve The Results You Want

    Visualization is an age-long practice.  It’s something many people do. But not everyone actually does it the right way. Hence, they come up with little or no results. However, most successful people you know today are quite good at it! They use visualization as a mechanism to achieve the results they crave. Today I’ll share some tips on how to visualize success correctly to help you achieve your goals.

    Footballers, gymnasts, musicians, entrepreneurs, writers, speakers, actors, you name it; it’s visualization that helps them to reach the next level in their careers. It’s what they envision that propels them to take a step forward!

    At this point, you might be asking the question; what is visualization? 

    Well, it’s all about foresight.

    When you visualize, you imagine having reached a destination you intend to reach. You envision achieving certain goals you’ve set. And of course, it becomes more feasible for you to actualize those desired results.

    As a matter of fact, when you visualize, you actualize. That’s how it works.

    Now, I’m sure you’re eager to find out how to do this. Fret no more, let’s dive right in!

     

     

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    1. Decide What You Want 

    The very first step you have to take is to decide. What difference exactly do you intend to make in the near future?

    Once you provide the answer to this question, then that’s what you want. And that is to say; you’ve started the mission of visualizing your success.

    Moreover, while trying to figure out your destiny, you shouldn’t focus on your past. Don’t allow the present situations to weigh you down. 

    In order to get intentional about what you want for your future, you have to write down those aspirations on paper. They are your goals. And they will give your life a sense of direction and purpose.  

     

     

    2. Imagine Having It 

    You will agree with me that visualization is all about dreams. Now, in order to get real with those fantasies, you have to imagine that you’re living it…

    To make it easier, just try to imagine that you’ve already gotten that result you crave for. In other words, that decision you made (in step one above); just imagine that you have arrived at that destination you aspire to. 

    See it as if you’ve achieved that goal and that you are living in that future. Absorb that feeling even if the results are not yet there. That’s what a positive mindset is all about.

    Sure, it might seem a bit bizarre (okay, a lot bizarre). But then it’s very important that you take this step. Because it is one thing to have a dream and another to actualize it.

    And there is no better way to actualize your dreams than to have the feeling of living those dreams from this moment. 

    It is called “Feeling the feeling of success even when you are yet to get there.” (Yeah, I coined that.)

    Remember, the human body finds it difficult to differentiate between fake and real feelings which is why you feel so scared watching a horror movie even when you know it’s not real. The same thing can be applied to the feeling you have about your future; once you imagine that you have it now, then you will feel the impact on your body immediately.

    Adopting this particular strategy will simply cut that rope that demarcates your dreams from your reality, and hence, it will be easier to get the results you want.

     

     

    How To Visualize Success

     

     

    3. Practice The Thought of Having It Already 

    Now that you have the thought and mindset of having it, the next step is to practice that thought. At this point in time, you are about to get practical with your goals, your ambition, and above all your destination… So expect it to be scary!

    Of course, most times, we feel so hysteric when we are faced with a new practical challenge; especially the ones we have no clue about. 

    Once you decide to take that big step that could change your identity, you might experience that feeling of impostor syndrome. You will feel like you are not good enough, and that perhaps you are just going too far. 

    That is why your brain will likely tremble over practicing that thought of having it already. If you feel this way, it’s actually normal. And as a matter of fact, it indicates that you are heading in the right direction.

    But, be bold. Because, it’s not just about knowing how to visualize success, it’s about practicing it!

    You’ve developed that thought and feeling of having it, right? Now is the time to practice that feeling. Now is the time to behave like a successful person.

    Let all your actions (right now) be in line with the actions you’d take if you were already successful. That is the best way to obtain your dream results this very moment.

     

     

    4. Look For Moments of Serendipity 

    This is simply an unintended but fortunate moment of discovery. Looking for such a moment in the right way will have a remarkable impact on your life.

    The actual result might not come through immediately when you start visualization. However, you will definitely experience some surprising changes along the way! 

    Just look out for such surprises.

    Of course, by doing so, things will begin to happen differently. You will discover ways to simplify things and get good results. And hence, you won’t work too hard but too smart.

     

     

    5. Practice Visualization 

    Do you want to really learn how to visualize success? Then start practicing it every day. It’s as simple as that. Don’t just wait for that right moment to visualize, make it a habit. 

    It won’t take much of your time to make this activity a routine. Somewhere between 15 to 30 minutes (every day) will do. And it is actually a fun-filled activity because it gives you the opportunity to peer into a pleasant future. 

    I’m sure you feel great whenever you fantasize about something good about the future? Well, that’s the exact feeling this practice will offer you. 

    Moreover, it is very positive to visualize a successful future because if you don’t,  you will be left with no option than to visualize sad failures in the past. Which is the exact opposite of what you’re trying to achieve!

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Visualizing success is a very healthy practice. It helps you to start living in success instead of dwelling on failure.

    Once you learn how to visualize success, you will move in a positive direction. This is because instead of regenerating your past failure, your brain will direct your focus towards creating a successful future, and hence, you will design for yourself the exact life you want to live!

    Your actions will simply go right instead of wrong and the best results will follow.

    Related reads:

     

     

    Please pin & share these tips on how to visualize success!

    How To Visualize Success
  • 20 Habits Of Successful Women To Adopt Today

    20 Habits Of Successful Women To Adopt Today

    What does it mean to be a strong, successful woman? The definition of success is of course different for everyone. For some, it’s being financially independent, for others it can be as simple as just being happy. It doesn’t matter what success is to you, what’s important is that you go after what you want so you don’t sit with regrets later on in life. Today I’ll share some important habits of successful women that can help you achieve success quicker.

    So grab a cup of coffee and sit back. In this article, I will be your driver on a trip into the minds of highly successful women. If you want to become like them, read on. 

    Without further ado, here are the top 20 habits of successful women!

     

     

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    1. They practice gratitude

    Gratitude is the quality of being grateful. To the heart, gratitude is like a medicine. In fact, gratitude is so important that meditational exercises aren’t complete without them. And, successful women understand this. 

    So, they hack the benefits.

    When you practice gratitude, you will find yourself automatically focusing on the things that bring joy into your life, while ignoring the heartaches that come with life.

    The truth is that no one has a perfect life. There will always be some form of insufficiencies here and there, whether emotionally, financially, or physically. However, the good news is that life is but a fleeting moment. If there will always be some form of heartache while you live, of what use is living in depression and ingratitude all your life?

    Successful women understand this thoroughly, and so they practice it. 

    How can you do it? 

    Simple!

    Every morning, before beginning your day, get a piece of paper and a pen. Write down 3 things you are grateful for in your career, and then, another 3 things in your personal life. Any time you feel sad or down during the day, refer to this list. Let it be your light in the time of darkness. 

    How does this help? 

    Through gratitude, you develop a positive mindset. And with a positive mindset, you become more fruitful and productive!

     

     

    2. They set goals and stick to them

    Another habit of successful women is the ability to set goals. And not just setting goals, but also following them through. Setting a goal is the first step to turning the invisible into the visible. Through goal setting, successful women have clear-cut targets. These targets give them a sense of direction; a well-designed path to follow on the way to success.

    Now to you! Ask yourself, “What do I want to achieve in the next 12 months? Where do I want to be?”

    No! Don’t attempt to keep them in your head. Write these targets down. 

    Done?

    Now, think of ways through which you could achieve these goals. Yep, it is that easy. That’s one of the simplest habits of successful women. 

     

     

    3. They are constantly working on self-improvement

    A definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again – and expecting a different result. The truth is, success is intentional. No one is successful by chance or luck.

    One of the key habits of successful women is the willingness to continuously improve themselves. Whether it is their spiritual, financial, emotional, or mental intelligence, successful women make sure there is always an addition to their abilities. 

    This way they build capacity for success. 

    Related: 11 Tips On How To Invest In Yourself And Change Your Life

     

     

    4. They make their health and exercise a priority

    Never try overworking yourself. If the goal is maximum productivity, you must learn to take your health seriously. Successful women understand that health is wealth. And, health is truly wealth. An active and healthy mind is always more fruitful (compared to a dull one). 

    Here’s an action tip: Make sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. Also, exercise your body for 30 minutes every day. 

    Related: Easy ways to be more active without hitting the gym

     

     

    5. They are morning angels 

    One of the most obvious habits of successful women is waking early. Since the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day, taking charge of the morning automatically means winning the day. 

    Successful women understand this, and that’s why they get up very early in the morning. Whether it is to crunch a project, or set plans for the day, they conquer their morning. And consequently, have a splendid day!

    Related: 15 Tips On How To Wake Up Earlier And Not Feel Tired

     

     

    6. They know when to take a break 

    Successful women understand the importance of breaks. Work isn’t everything, and they know this. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is just to relax. There are times when you will have  to carry out certain tasks, however, the cognitive and emotional strengths will be lacking.

    During these times, always step back from work and take a break. 

     

     

    7.They never give up

    Let’s face the harsh reality of life; the road will not always be smooth! Success has many bus-stops, and one of them is failure. 

    Yes, successful women fail. 

    And fail again…

    And again…

    And again…

    However, they never give up. Afar off, they stare at their goals and do all it takes to take hold of it.  A successful woman would never accept failure and let the weight of the world bring her down! In the wake of adversity, successful women persevere.

    If you want to be like them, acquire this habit too – you would be needing it!

     

     

    Habits Of Successful Women
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    8. They surround themselves with like-minded people 

     A successful woman knows the importance of having like-minded people around her. In this sense, like-minded people are people who share similar goals and ambitions with her. This not only keeps her positive, but it also motivates her to become a better version of herself. 

    You too!

    Make sure the people around you are making you grow. If not, disassociate yourself from them and find some new company.

     

     

    9. They are financial savvy

    They build themselves to attract money. However, they also know how to keep the money. Here’s a truth most people will never tell you: To be rich, it is not about how much money you make, but how much money you can keep. 

    Successful women apply this. So, when building their empire, they also equip themselves with the needed skills to sustain it. Financial intelligence is the key to getting rich. Get it!

     

     

    10. Successful women communicate well

    It goes without saying that we are in the information age. Consequently, money flows where there is information. However, it isn’t enough to have this information, you must also learn the act of communicating it.

    Effective communication skills are one of the skills successful women acquire. Through this, they tend to build lasting relationships.

     

     

    11. Successful women fall in love with the process

    Another pro tip: the joy from accomplishment isn’t gotten from success itself, but from the process. 

    Although success is majorly result-based, a successful woman allows herself to sink into the process because it allows her to blossom and grow.  She loves the learning moments; the hard times and the easy ones. 

    All in all, she allows the process to mold her into what she wants to be. So, when next you see a successful woman, don’t check only the result, but also study the process she took. 

     

     

    12. Minimize distractions

    Whether it is the television or text notifications, distractions are distractions. Distractions only divert your attention from what truly matters to something less important. This way, they keep you from staying on track. 

    Successful women know that to achieve or maintain success, they must always show up for themselves at all times. When it is time for work, they put aside any device – or person – that could be a potential source of distraction. 

    Distraction, in itself, could come in the form of a legitimate event such as a social gathering with friends, or an extremely ridiculous one such as spending all day on Twitter. 

    Either way, I repeat, distractions are distractions. Anything that causes your eye to shift from your goals is a distraction. Put it away. This is one of the habits of successful women that may seem miniscule but is actually very important.

     

     

    13. Successful women do important tasks first

    Not all tasks are equal. 

    In case you aren’t aware, some are less important than others. This fact is irrefutable along with the human race. However, the flexible area of this fact is the difference in ‘what really matters’ to everyone. 

    Successful women come up with a scale of preference. Most times, activities that are more in line with their goals are put above the rest.

     You can too. Come up with a scale of preference that makes your goals more achievable, and do the important stuff first!

    Related: 10 Effective Time Management Tips That Really Work

     

     

    14. They are compassionate and kind

    ‘What goes around comes around.’

    Even though that might sound a little cliché, successful women pay heed to the intricate details of that quote. Simply put, they practice what they would love to receive. 

    In this case, all of them are really kind and compassionate. Being empathic enough to decipher the moods of people and how to approach situations, they grow their relationships into what they want it to be. 

    The old view of being ruthless to succeed is gone!

     

     

    15. Successful women build a killer network

    Relationships are the currency of the 21st century. Successful women do everything within their means to continuously build their network. Instead of shutting everyone out, they welcome people in. Instead of being ruthless and inconsiderate, they are kind and understanding. 

    These and many more qualities, foster the building of good relationships and hence, a killer network. So, stop acting like you can do it all by yourself. The way up, actually, is consciously building a network of professionals and like-minds. 

     

     

    16. They are not afraid of failure

    Failure inspires winners. Failure discourages losers. That is the slang of successful women. Sooner or later, you are going to fail. 

    If you want to be as successful as these women, you must move into a winner’s mindset. 

     

     

    17. They are good listeners 

    A major skill needed for effective communication is an attentive ear. A successful woman listens. She does so not because she is obliged to, but because she wants to understand others’ standpoint.

    By doing this, she gets inspired by their successes and learns from their failures. By learning from others, she becomes better herself and positively influences those around her.

     

     

    18. I can, I can, I can.

    Those are the words of a successful woman. Successful women never give up. Neither are they discouraged by a seemingly insurmountable mountain. Instead, they push. Beyond the obstacle, they push. Until they reach their goal, they push. 

    The phrase, ‘I can’t’ isn’t found in a successful woman’s library. Instead, she looks for ways to make a door out of a rock. 

    Ever persistent, ever courageous, ever brave. 

     

     

    19. Successful women dedicate time to get their lives organized 

    Nope, they don’t jump into the day just like that. A successful woman understands the impact of her environment on her mental health. So, she dedicates time every day to keep her surroundings tidy. 

    The dishes and laundry must always be taken care of. Also, she makes sure her room, home, and office-environment are well-kept. This way, she has the cognitive and mental ability to focus on important tasks of the day without getting bogged down by the environment.

     

     

    20. Successful women never stop reading and learning

    They read, learn, and take action. Read, learn, and take action. 

    And the cycle goes on and on. 

    Successful women are never tired of the learning process. Since taking action is the greatest way to learn, they constantly take action. Whenever she is ignorant about a subject matter, a successful woman asks questions and goes out of her way to educate herself. 

     

     

    For you…

    It is your turn to become a successful woman too! I want to remind you that it is okay if you haven’t developed these habits. In fact, if you could read this piece to the end, there is an iota of a successful woman inside of you. 

    So, train her – constantly monitor yourself; always check to see that these habits are in place. 

    You can do it too. 

    You can become a successful woman too.

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  • How To Remove Negativity From Your Life And Be Happier

    How To Remove Negativity From Your Life And Be Happier

    One moment you could be excited, and the next, you’re down and having the worst thoughts ever. This is a common experience for the many of us today, largely due to all the negativity in our immediate surroundings. Social media, friends, colleagues, even family—just about anything and anyone can be the source of negativity. Sad, but that’s the reality we live in.  That’s why I’ll share some tips today on how to remove negativity from your life so you can be happier.

    It is so important to retreat and deliberately remove negativity from your life! You can even choose to escape from it all for a while. Be it by going offline, or avoiding certain places and people. Whatever the case may be, your mental health is of utmost importance and should not be taken for granted. Never, ever.

    If you are facing negativity in your life or something similar, read on as I walk you through some practical tips on how to remove negativity from your life, for good.

     

     

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    1. Identify your areas of negativity

    This is the first and most important commandment to remove negativity from your life. This entails pinpointing the reasons you might be a negative thinker in the first instance and the areas of your life that tend to spur negative thoughts. 

    In order for you to get a solution, you must admit that you have a problem.

    You can’t identify these areas if you don’t accept that you have negative thoughts. This requires a quiet time of reflection, so it is best if you put it down on paper. Studies have shown that writing things down tends to reduce stress and increase optimism.

    After putting down the possible areas that bring about negative thoughts, you have to change your mindset about them.

     

     

    2. Focus on the optimistic viewpoint, no matter how small

    As there are two sides of a coin, there are also two sides to every situation presented before you—the good and the bad. Find the good aspect of a situation and focus on it.

    Change your mindset. 

    Focus is the key to drifting your mind away from the uncertain “what ifs” to the “what if I can”. In simple terms, what you focus on is what determines it all. For example, if you lost a competition, focus on the knowledge and exposure you have acquired, rather than the “shame” and “lost fame”. This would help relieve the burden of frustration that is likely to sprout.

    Related: How To Have An Abundance Mindset: 10 Habits To Cultivate

     

     

    3. Overcome the fears that hold you back

    The main reason you have negative thoughts is because you fear what could happen if you finally decide to act and most times, you get lost in such thoughts.

    When faced with such fears, here’s what you should do: 

    First off, question the negative thought. To remove negativity from your life, you are not burying every negative thought or emotion that pops up in your mind, neither are you avoiding difficult fallings. 

    They should be faced upfront and questioned. These questions would give you a reality check and bring you up to a positively inclined perspective. 

    For example, often ask yourself this question; “What is the worst that could happen?”

    Most times, if not all, the worst thing that could happen in reality is not as bad as what you imagine it to be. Understanding this fact will help you take action and of course, go a step further in a bid to remove negative thoughts from your life.

     

     

    4. Do not dwell on past mistakes 

    This can be done in two ways:

    i) Let go of past mistakes

     Mistakes from past experiences shouldn’t be the basis of judgment for future occurrences. Most people tend to hold on to their past mistakes and use them to compare with their present or yet to come opportunities, making them think negatively and be reluctant to take action.

    ii) Learn from past mistakes

    It is one thing to let go of previous mistakes and another thing to learn from them. Learn to take previous failures and turn the next opportunity into success. Let it be a source of motivation for you, rather than it forming a bundle of negative thoughts in your mind. 

    Take responsibility for your actions. This will help you own up to your mistakes whenever you encounter any problem in life and overcome the fears that may want to prevent you from taking that big step you have been desiring to take.

    Acknowledging your mistakes will also help you learn from them!

    Where there are failures and disappointments in the previous project, shake them off. Thomas Edison had to try his experiment on the light bulb 1000 times, all of which were failures except the last trial, which was a success.

    Push on. There are always lessons to be learned when failure comes. It is either you are stagnant or you learn and be better. This is one of the most effective ways to remove negativity from your life. 

     

     

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    5. Take it one step at a time 

    Do not try to go too fast. Steady and slow eases stress. If you try to take on too much at a time, it might be overwhelming, and negative thoughts on just about anything might start to well up. 

    Taking things one after the other calms your mind and body, making it easier to think things through and find the optimistic perspective of any and every situation. Stay healthy. Take good care of yourself and only then would you be able to think positively about any situation. 

    Sleeping well, eating well and exercising daily will give you fewer reasons to have negative thoughts and more reasons to be grateful (am I right, or am I right?).

     

     

    6. Never compare yourself with others 

    Ah, the golden rule. This is something natural for all humans. We tend to compare ourselves and then get depressed about it, especially when we are on the “not good enough” end. 

    Some people might seem to have the perfect life, job, spouse, family, or something you desire but can’t have yet, and this causes you to think about all that you haven’t achieved or a previous mistake you made. 

    Whatever the case may be, always remember that all fingers aren’t equal (cliché, but please permit me). You don’t know how long it took to get to that level, what, and how they got to that stage nor the pain and suffering they endured just to attain that status. So, there isn’t any need to get jealous over them or immerse yourself in overwhelming negative thoughts. Be yourself and work hard at what you do. Doing this will make it easier for you to remove negativity from your life.

     

     

    7. Start your day in a positive way 

    How you start your day is very important. This could be done in ways such as:

    i) Performing Activities

     Take some time out in the morning to do things that keep you calm. You could pray, read a novel, do some exercises, listen to soothing music—anything that keeps you cool-headed.

    ii) Self Affirmations 

    These are positive statements that are said repeatedly, often daily. Research suggests that repeated actions program the mind to be inclined in that direction. So, the more these affirmations are said, the more the mind works toward that direction. Choose affirmations that are personally meaningful to you. The affirmations can be “I am the best”, “I am beautiful”, “I refuse to have negative thoughts today”, “I have peace of mind”, and so on.

    Doing these things will give you a positive boost for your day because how you start your morning usually goes a long way in setting the tone for the rest of your day.

    Related: Top 10 Morning Habits To Supercharge Your Day With Positivity

     

     

    8. Create time for leisure

    Here, you can do whatever you love. As simple as it may seem, it can be the hardest because of that project deadline you have to meet up with or your tight schedule which you must follow to the end.

    In all these, try to create time for that which you love to do. When you do something you love, you are distracted from feeling sad or having negative thoughts!

     

     

    9. Spend your time with positive people

    There is a common saying that goes: “Show me your friend and I will tell you who you are”. This implies a lot in positive thinking. Negativity and positivity are contagious. The people you spend your time with should be handpicked by you because you are in a transformation phase.

    Negative energy can send you tumbling back to scratch and I am pretty sure you don’t want that to happen. The people you spend your time with should be people who are cheerful, humorous, and those who can help bring you out even when it seems you are slipping back into negative thoughts. 

    Being around positive-minded people has been shown to improve self-esteem as well as increase one’s chances of achieving goals. Surround yourself with people who can uplift you and remove negative thoughts from your life.

     

     

    10. Bring positivity into the life of someone else 

    Putting smiles on people’s faces can do you more good than it will do them. It will help you get out of your head and any negative thought that is sprouting. It also boosts your self-confidence and self-esteem. By giving you a sense of accomplishment, you are provided with the necessary mind power to take actions without having negative thoughts.

    How do you do this?

    Be kind to others; you could buy lunch for a friend, give a heartfelt compliment on their clothes or style.

    Give a listening ear; a friend might just need someone to listen to his venting. Just listen and try helping out either with advice or just a consolation.

    Contribute your quota to your society. When you can focus on what you have to give to your society, you will feel good about what you have. You could donate to an orphanage home or the construction of a school building.

    This and many more you can do to shift your concentration whenever you see that you are slipping back into negative thinking.

     

     

    11. Let out your feelings

    At the end of your day, it will do you good to write down every unpleasant situation that occurred during the day. This will get it off your mind, preventing any kind of negative thoughts and as well give you a good night’s rest. Sounds like a win-win if you ask me.

     

     

    12. Understand that your positivity lies within you

    Do not rely on any external factor, whether a person or otherwise, to make you happy or spur your positivity. Remember that no one owes you anything. Yes, they might make you happy sometimes but it might not go that way every single time. So, you must understand that only you have the power to focus your mind on being positive. 

    With this mindset, you won’t be hurt whether things go according to your expectations or not.

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Finally, to reiterate, the key to having a positive mindset is first of all accepting that you have negative thoughts. Focus on the renewal of your mindset, see every situation in a positive light as much as you can and you will discover that your consequences, in reality, are not as bad as what you imagined them to be. 

    Try as much as possible never to dwell on your mistakes. Do not use your past mistakes to judge present or future opportunities. Do not try to take too much at a time. Take breaks in between tasks. 

    Stay healthy. Eat, sleep well, exercise daily, and make sure you hydrate yourself to avoid unnecessary weakness and illness. Also, spend your time around positive people who can lift your mood. Bring positivity into the life of other people too by helping out and being kind to them. 

    Make sure you don’t bottle up your feelings. Let it out by writing it down or talking to a close friend about it. Above all, you must understand that your positivity lies within you. Do not rely on anyone to spur your positivity. 

    Removing negativity from your life has several benefits, including higher energy levels and a better outlook on life! This will lower the tendency for you to fall into depression, thereby making you live your life to the fullest while learning and re-learning from the situations life throws at you.

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  • How To Be Happy In Life Despite Your Circumstances

    How To Be Happy In Life Despite Your Circumstances

    The truth is, everyone wants to be happy. That’s why we do all we can to discover the means to be happy.  But happiness is a choice. Today I’ll share some tips on how to be happy in life no matter where you find yourself in your life journey.

    We are wrong about many things we believe about happiness. Most of the places we go, or the things we do, or even the ideas we buy do not guarantee happiness.

    For instance, we all want to be successful in everything we do, in order to be happy. But in reality, we just CAN’T be successful in every aspect of life… There are so many attempts we make that are bound to fail. For that reason, we fail to find happiness in our quest for success!

    Moreover, many of us also chase money by virtually every means all in the hope of finding true happiness in it. Yes, we become happier with the more money we make but such happiness is usually short-lived because;

    • While we make money, we also lose money every day and that doesn’t bring happiness.
    • Even when we keep making money, there are problems money doesn’t solve. In that case, nothing like happiness.
    • Money brings you comfort but also makes you uncomfortable because you will be worried about how to ensure you never go broke again. Research has it that rich people have sleepless nights more than average people. Now, does that depict happiness?  
    • Nobody is seemingly satisfied with the amount he has. The more money you make, the more you want. You can’t call this happiness!

    Besides the ill sides of money, there are many other reasons why you are simply wrong to think that money or success bring true happiness… Because true happiness is not short-lived. It is not a destination, it is also not a permanent state of feeling good. Happiness is not materialistic.

     

     

    How to be happy in life

    With all that said above, what then is happiness?

    To explain this, I would simply say that happiness is when you are content with yourself and your life. Happiness is when you choose to be happy even amidst difficulties.

    Moreover, in order to have real happiness, you have to intentionally make efforts to address all the areas of your life that can trigger your feelings and emotions.

    Now, that brings us to how to be happy in life despite the circumstances you find yourself… Are you ready? Let’s go!

     

     

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    Practice Gratitude 

    More often than not, people insinuate that they will be happy if they acquire something or if a certain thing happens. Unfortunately, that is not the case because happiness doesn’t depend on material or immaterial things. 

    Have you ever heard that happiness is bought?

    Nah, it can’t be!

    Sure, when something pleasant is added to your life, you’re bound to be happy about it. But the question is, will such happiness be sustained? 

    The only way you can acquire sustainable joy is when you are grateful for the things you’ve got already and stay content with them. This way, you’ll realize that those material things are not essential for your happiness. Hence, your source of happiness will become innate.

    Now, let’s be practical;

    Think about those things you really desire to have… The fact that you don’t have them is enough to make you unhappy. But also, think about what you already have at hand that you are grateful for, I’m sure that makes you happier?

    That’s exactly what the power of gratitude is all about. A grateful man is a happier man but a man whose happiness depends on obtaining more has a greater tendency to be sad. Because there is no guarantee that you’d get all you want in life! At least, not without working towards it.

     

     

    Do Away With Negative Thoughts 

    We are all familiar with those waves of negative thoughts or emotions that run across our minds at times… 

    Now, note this; such emotions or thoughts are the greatest enemies of a happy life! Once you can deal with them, then your happiness is assured!

    It might interest you to know that negative thoughts are inescapable as long as life is concerned. It’s normal to have such moments. However, you don’t have to give it room to linger for long. You must learn how to deal with it if you must be happy.

    Harbouring any negative thought or emotion for long will definitely affect how you act and feel over time. Of course, you don’t want this.

     

     

    Walk Away From Toxic Relationships 

    Sometimes, the people you hang around with can influence your emotions. They play a big role in your happiness or sadness. Do you doubt that?

    Okay, how do you feel after spending time with your friends or colleagues who have negative things to say about you? Pretty hurt, I guess. Compare that to the feeling you get when you are around those who have words of motivation and encouragement to offer you. Uplifting, yes?

    That’s exactly why you have to be careful about who you let into your circle! 

    Sure, in life, you will have different kinds of people interacting with you at different times, however, you must be smart enough to know what’s good for you. Remember, it’s all about your happiness.

    Therefore, don’t hesitate to walk away from that toxic relationship. That’s exactly how to be happy in life!

     

     

    Practice Self Love 

    There is no way you can stay happy if you don’t love yourself, because true happiness stems from love. And if you must exhibit love generally, you must start by loving yourself. If you’re of the mindset that you’re not good enough, then you have to start giving yourself some credit. If you can’t, who then do you expect to appreciate you the way you deserve?

    As a matter of fact, in order to learn how to be happy in life, you must start by being happy with who you are. Treat yourself with love, just like you want others to treat you!

    It’s not selfish to love yourself, it’s just a way to set an example to others on how they should treat you. If you fail to love yourself unconditionally, there is no way you’ll find true happiness from any other source.

     

     

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    Be Yourself 

    We all have our uniqueness and peculiarities, and for that, we have to be ourselves the best way we can.

    It really doesn’t matter if you agree with me on this, but nobody is perfect. While you sit and watch someone else who seems to be too good, always have in mind that such a person has his or her own downside. 

    Having that in mind, you must learn how to be yourself and not someone else. Know who you are and become better at whatever you do. Be the best version of yourself because that’s what self-actualization entails.

    One way to start practicing this is to learn how to focus on you and not others. Don’t always feel the need to impress others. Rather, you should be more concerned about being you, getting better, and living authentically.

    Related: How To Stop Worrying What Others Think And Live Your Own Life

     

     

    Discover Your Purpose 

    One of the best ways to discover how to be happy in life is to find out your life’s purpose.

    As far as life is concerned, there are certain capacities inside us that need to be unlocked. In other words, there are lots of potentials you must explore. And unless you unlock those capacities and discover those potentials, then you can’t boldly say that you’ve found your purpose on earth.

    For instance, you might have certain activities you’re passionate about (things that give you joy and the sense of fulfilment once you do them); be it writing, singing, sport, teaching, etc. Those are probably in line with your purpose in life.

    Once you are unhappy at your place of work, then there is a big possibility you’re in the wrong place. No one is unhappy if what he/she is doing is the exact purpose of their existence! 

    There is this genuine happiness that comes with doing what you love to do. When you find out that you are living your purpose on earth, it brings an unending satisfaction. 

    However, remember that your purpose doesn’t have to be narrowed down to a particular thing. They can be as many as whatever you do that give you peace of mind.

     

     

    Render Help To Others 

    There is a popular notion which points out that we rise when we lift other people. Similarly, when you render help, you will be happier.

    Your question now might be; how will “helping others” make me happy?

    Here is how it works:

    When you help others by giving them your time, resources, or care, it definitely makes them happy. And they will appreciate you. You will feel great when people appreciate your kind gestures. 

    But mind you, helping others doesn’t mean you should be a people-pleaser. After all, you are only helping them out of your own magnanimity, not because you are compelled to do so.

    When it becomes part of you to help others, your confidence keeps growing with every problem you solve. It gives you that awesome feeling of being useful. And hence, as a habitual helper, your happiness and satisfaction in life will be habitual as well.

    Makes sense, right? 

     

     

    Adopt A Healthy Lifestyle 

    Surely, there are ways of life, habits, attitudes, or behaviours that will definitely not encourage a happy life. For instance, when you encounter one of those normal sad moments in life and decide to cure it with alcohol, that’s a good way to damage yourself slowly (especially when you make it a habit). 

    For the record, abusing alcohol (or other hard drugs) as a remedy for sadness has been found to be the major cause of domestic violence, depression, and even suicide! 

    If you really want to deal with those hard times, you can listen to music, read certain books that can uplift you, engage in certain exercises or physical activities and so much more. Such are healthy lifestyles for you.

    Similarly, another healthy activity you should consider initiating is sleeping enough. It’s very unhealthy for you to deprive yourself of sleep. When you sleep between 6 to 8 hours every night, you will wake up happier and stronger the next morning. 

    To add to this, you must also eat healthily. Ration your dietary and nutritional intake. Excessive calories (fats and carbohydrates) aren’t good for your health. Copy that?

    Experts suggest instead that adding more fruits and veggies to your diet will make you stronger. Moreover, ensure your diet is quite balanced! Remember, a healthy lifestyle will keep you physically and mentally strong and of course, that’s a pretty straightforward way to be happy in life. 

     

     

    Learn To Let Go 

    Sometimes holding on to things that are needless can make you an unhappy fellow. Learn to let go of certain things you obviously can’t change. You will be happier and relieved:

    • Let go of fear and anxiety.
    • Learn to let go of resentment and regrets.
    • Let go of uncertainties and doubts.
    • Avoid comparisons. Your life isn’t their life!
    • Forget the past and be more focused on the present and the future.

    By letting go, I can assure you that you’ll feel better as a person. 

     

     

    Meditate Often 

    One of the wisest men that ever lived once suggested that an unexamined life isn’t worth it. According to him, to live such a life is vain. And yep, I agree with him. In order to live a meaningful life, you need to create time to reflect and ponder. 

    The question now is, how will meditation make you happy?

    Well, when you meditate, you condition your brain to enter a peaceful mode and hence, your worries will be reduced. This is because, through meditation, you will be calm enough to connect to yourself and become more aware of yourself.

    It might interest you to know that self-awareness gives you the opportunity to understand your individuality better. Of course, that’s exactly what you need to be happy in life.

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Everything you’ve learned so far is very vital for a happy life. However, you need to always bear in mind that happiness is nothing but a choice. Therefore, in order to experience sustainable happiness in life, the basic step you must take is to DECIDE to be happy, regardless of your circumstances.

     

     

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  • 11 Things To Do As Part Of Your Self Care Night Routine

    11 Things To Do As Part Of Your Self Care Night Routine

    A lot of us have many ways we practice self-care. We tend to manage our bodies in the best way we can in order to be in good shape. We also try to cultivate a positive mindset so that we are mentally sound.  Today I’ll share some tips for you to develop a proper self care night routine to help you do just that.

    Now, the idea of a self care night routine might be new to you. Some may even find it needless, but is it? 

    According to findings, a higher percentage of happy, productive people are those who effectively integrate morning and night self care routines into their lives.

    You may be wondering if it is possible to adopt and master self care habits. Although it requires your conscious effort, certain factors increase your chances of implementing whatever routine you take up;

    • Firstly, you can decide to choose the ones that work for you. Anything you find too difficult can wait.
    • Secondly, you can also decide to only adopt only the things you enjoy. 
    • You can make it as simple as you want.
    • You can adopt only routines that bring some balance to your life.

    Below, I will share 11 things to do as part of your self care night routine. You can use the ones that work for you. I’d like to believe you will live a much happier and fulfilled life if you can keep up with at least some of them. Only if they work for you of course.

     

     

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    1. Draw A Warm Or Cold Bath 

    Your self care night routine can start by drawing yourself a bath – hot or cold – depending on the weather and what suits you at that particular time. This should be done immediately you get home from work. 

    You might have had a stressful day, so the best you can do for yourself is to calm your nerves and relax your muscles by having your bath immediately you get home. Also, make it a habit to brush your teeth before bed. It feels great!

    Have you ever gotten home and been so tired to do anything but to sleep off? I’m sure you enjoyed your sleep, but then how did you feel the next morning?

    Fresh or rancid?

    Strong or tired?

    Well, however you feel the next morning, the bottom line is that you won’t feel your best. Hence, why don’t you make it your bedtime routine to shower, brush, and feel fresh before retiring to bed? Life will definitely feel better.

     

     

    2. Put On Something Comfortable 

    Of course, you don’t want to remain in the same clothes all day! Not only will it make you uncomfortable, but it’s just…not nice.

    Even before you return from work, you are probably yearning to be home already and make yourself a bit comfortable. One good way to ensure such comfort is by changing your work clothes into something more cosy, warm, and comfortable.

    This singular act can help you mark the difference between work and rest. It will make your evening kind of unique and different from the rest of the day.

    When you have a clearly defined wardrobe for work that is different from that of home, you will have a psychological shift once you get home and change into those nighties or pyjamas. You will simply feel at home!

     

     

    3. Create Time For Yourself 

    This is one self care night routine people ignore a lot.

    You might have had a tough time working all day. Perhaps, you even carried some work home to continue. While I won’t condemn such hard work completely, it’s also important to remind you that you really need to create time for yourself… 

    There are a whole lot of things you can do with such “self-time”, but in all, it has to be for your self-care.

    You can start by setting aside an hour (in the evening) to focus on what you love.

    After you have taken your bath and changed into something quite comfortable, the next in line is to spend time on that activity you really enjoy doing.

    I know people who really find writing very interesting. But then you can choose to use this lovely time to watch that fascinating show on TV. 

    You can also decide to listen to those podcasts you’ve been planning to listen to but couldn’t make out time for. What about tuning into your favourite radio station to listen to that program you find quite educative?

    Other activities you should consider are; 

    • Going for a walk 
    • Yoga 
    • Hitting the gym 
    • Creative paintings or other forms of art, etc.

    Actually, your body and mind need such every evening and hence, it will be a massive way to rob yourself if you don’t create the time to do what you find interesting.

     

     

    4. Read Books 

    Consider adopting reading as your night routine, you won’t regret it. 

    Before going to bed, reading is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Reading a fiction/nonfiction book or an interesting storyline can actually be quite fun. 

    To actualize this, you can set a goal to read a specific number of books within a calendar year. 

    The question now is, do you like reading? Why not give it a try?

    Based on research findings, reading has a tremendous way of improving your mental capacity! This is because while reading, you are concentrating, co-ordinating, and at the same time memorizing!

    Besides, it might also thrill you to know that reading is far more effective in reducing the effect of stress than tea or coffee. Moreover, reading the right books can single handedly help you in winning the fight against depression. 

     

     

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    5. Create A Time For Daily Reflection 

    Have you ever considered having time to think and reminisce about your daily events? Actually, it’s a very essential self-care night routine you should adopt!

    Just before you retire to bed, you should dedicate thirty minutes or an hour for meditation. Fifteen minutes is alright too for a start. Reflect on your daily activities; your job, your engagements, your losses, wins, decisions, even your utterances/responses. Think about all of them. Ascertain what you did right and what you need to do better.

    You can do this in the form of journaling. While reflecting, write down all the things you consider noteworthy; both events that made you happy or sad should be well noted in your journal. 

    Journaling is a fantastic way to reflect. It will help you hold on to those happy moments and at the same time, give you the opportunity to ease any sadness that might have accumulated on your mind during the course of the day.

    Related: 20 Deep Self-Reflection Questions To Ask Yourself

     

     

    6. Practice Gratitude 

    When you make gratitude a habit, you won’t only be happier as a person, but you will also find joy in living.

    You don’t have to wait till you win a major contract before you can be grateful. You can simply start by appreciating the little things that happen every day that you usually ignore. For instance, no matter how hard the day gets, you can choose to be grateful you have a roof over your head.

     

     

    7. Adopt A Daily Skin Care Routine 

    There are certain factors that will actually aid your skin. 

    First, if for some reason you couldn’t shower, then before bed, you must wash your face; do away with the make-up on your face if there is any. Sleeping with an unwashed face will keep your face oily. This can accumulate dirt or germs that can cause certain inflammations. 

    Moreover, based on research findings, sleeping with make-up increases the rate at which you age. In other words, night makeup could result in faster aging! Therefore, always wash it away!

     

     

    8. Declutter Each Evening 

    This might feel very tiring, given the fact that you just want to relax every evening. Doing chores is perhaps the last thing you are ready for. But then it’s important to declutter from time to time.

    If you decide to do without regular tidying of the house, I’m sure you can imagine what your home will look like after a while? It will certainly not make you feel good; both physically and psychologically.

    Nothing can put you in a bad mood more than waking up in a dirty environment where the restroom is not encouraging and the kitchen sink is nothing to write home about!

    If you eventually decide to leave it and go about your daily business, you won’t really be comfortable knowing fully well those dirty dishes and untidy rooms are still waiting for you. However, the moment you decide to clean up, the relief you’ll get to feel afterward can only be compared to heavenly salvation.

    A tidy environment brings about a good vibe and energy. It gives your environment a unique kind of freshness. Just imagine how you feel when you lay down on freshly washed sheets… Whew!

    Making this one of your self care night routines is paramount because it is a basic habit that will surely improve the quality of life you live.

    By nature, you are a social being. Therefore, one good way to treat yourself right every evening is by socializing; not just with a random person but with your family. Having a daily evening routine of connecting with your household will keep you in the right frame of mind before bed. You will wake up mentally stronger.

    Being with your family won’t only help you all create that bond, it will also serve as an opportunity to express love amongst yourselves. As a matter of fact, if your household is happy, you will be happier as a person. Consequently, your social life will blossom!

    Now, when you don’t relate with your household in this manner, you might have no reason to leave home a happy person. 

    And if you can’t spend quality time with your family, how sure are you to do so with your business partners or clients?

     

     

    9. Prepare For Tomorrow 

    Someone who prioritizes productivity should always prepare for the next day. 

    Assuming you have an important presentation to deliver tomorrow, it’s obviously advisable to use the previous night to prepare for the big day ahead.

    This will make you ready and equipped and hence, what would have been a very difficult day will be easier and properly handled.

     

     

    10. Routinize Your Bed Time 

    Okay forget the sequence, this is probably the first thing you should consider making your routine. 

    Are you the type that only sleeps when you are done with every other activity? Is your sleeping time irregular or solely dependent on when you are done working? Then, my friend, you have to re-strategize.

    Create a specific time that you MUST go to bed, no matter what. It’s very important for your general wellbeing.

    When you have a regular bedtime, you will maintain a certain level of fitness which will make it less difficult to embark on your daily tasks. As a result, you will be quite productive!

    It’s a fact that you need enough sleep to function optimally, and for that reason, sleeping well every day (based on your schedule) will make your functionality consistent.

    Related: 15 Tips On How To Wake Up Earlier And Not Feel Tired

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Finally, after you’ve spent the whole day striving to make ends meet, taking care of others, working and satisfying your clients, surely, you will feel like slumping onto your bed.

    But then, this rest might be short-lived because you will most likely wake up at midnight, feeling like you left certain things undone. In the end, you might not really have the kind of sleep you desired.

    But when you have a certain self care night routine as discussed right here, you will sleep comfortably knowing fully well that you’ve done the needful.

     

     

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  • 10 Effective Time Management Tips That Really Work

    10 Effective Time Management Tips That Really Work

    There is a popular perception that time is everything; be it money, success, health, progress, life, anything, and everything. Truly, who you are or who you will become has a lot to do with how you’ve been spending your time and how you’ll continue spending it. Today we’ll look at some effective time management tips, because time is unfortunately a limited resource.

    How good tomorrow will turn out depends on how you spend the next 24 hours, including every second and minute. 

    Time management, simply put, is the process of maximizing the usage of time. In other words, it is the way by which we make the most of our time for greater productivity.

    Now, it’s fairly common to hear people complaining that they’re running out of time. It depicts the exact nature of the world we live in… It’s a really busy world. In the survival process, we barely have enough time to keep up with lots of things. That’s simply because many of us lack effective time management skills.

    Really, it might not be all that easy to adopt and stick to a particular time regimen or rule. It’s actually difficult to fully adhere to the principles of time, however, it’s not impossible.

    If you’ve been looking for some time management tips that can really work for you, in this article, you will find exactly what you need. Just read on!

     

     

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    1. Change your Mindset 

    The truth is, whatever step you want to take in life starts from the mind. That is why an Idealist would always argue that before anything becomes real, it has undergone a mental process. In other words, most things that manifest physically are products of someone’s initial thoughts. 

    That being said, you can’t possibly manage your time and accomplish your tasks if you don’t have a productive mindset. This is why having the right mindset is fundamental and hence, it is topping the list. With the right mindset, every other step will easily follow. 

    First, you must take a step into that realm where you believe that you have the capacity to do things and finish tasks. You must believe that you can be productive and achieve your desired results! With a positive mindset, your day will start on a good note. You won’t doubt your ability to accomplish those tasks you’ve set for yourself; you just go ahead and embark on them.

    Now, one key strategy to change your mindset to a positive one is by being more optimistic than pessimistic. Don’t give room for doubt.

    If it becomes a bit difficult to change your mindset, then you can gradually learn to do so. There are lots of books out there that you can grab and read. They’ll help you so much you’ll wish you had read them earlier.

     

     

    2. Let Your Focus Be Very Clear From The Start Of The Day 

    The first thing you should think about when you wake up is the most important task for the day. It should occupy your mind. This will enable you to know exactly what tasks to carry out for the day and how to go about it.

    To achieve this, you have to be more creative. Ensure you take advantage of the early hours of the morning to meditate. This period is best suited for mental works because you’ll be in the right frame of mind. Plus, you will be better energized.

    Now, think of those things you have to do for the day. Write them down.

    Secondly, rank the tasks according to their level of importance. 

    After that, you can now start thinking about how to carry out those tasks; each and every one of them. One after the other.

    If you can get clear on what to focus on for the day, then you’re sure going to manage your time effectively that day.

     

     

    3. Wake Up Early 

    This is probably the best time management tip you can embrace. I simply call it a hack.

    When you wake up early, you will be able to plan your day earlier. As a result, you will start your day early too. Early rising will give you the opportunity to finish up your daily tasks because you will have enough time at your disposal.

    In order to wake up earlier and feel good, you have to ensure you sleep early enough. If you can adopt the habit of sleeping at most by 9 P.M, by 5 o’clock, you should have slept for 8 hours which is perfect for your body.

    In a situation where you find it difficult waking up early, you can set an alarm at a realistic time that you can maintain. However, in whatever you do, make sure you sleep enough because there is no way you can be sound enough to embark on your daily activities without getting enough sleep.

    Remember, a popular saying has it that a person who sleeps early and rises early will be healthy and wealthy (that’s what productivity entails).

    If you want to become an early riser but need some guidance, check out my post on how to wake up earlier and not feel tired.

     

     

    4. Track Every Activity

    Whatever activity you embark on every day, track it. This will ensure you know what you are doing right and where you are not getting it right… With this, there will always be room for improvement. Tracking your activities with respect to time will basically see to it that you allocate the right time to each and every task of the day.

    For instance, if you realize that you’ve spent over 4 hours on movies, you can readjust the next day to spend just 2 hours on it. The extra 2 hours can be used for something more productive.

    There are apps that can help you achieve this particular time management tip. Using such an app and having it open at all times can help you track your activities every day. You can also use it to view your calendar weekly, monthly, or yearly.

    You just have to make effective use of your calendar to track your events or tasks. And to make it easier for you, you should consider making use of any of the numerous mobile or desktop apps that are available.

     

     

    5. Stop Being A People-Pleaser 

    This is a bold step to take if you really want to own your time and your life entirely.

    Is it even possible to know what you should do and how you should do it if all you think about is to impress others?  The answer is simply, NO. 

    You will be far from knowing how to manage your personal time if you are a people-pleaser.

    For instance, if you are hell-bent on appearing perfect to people, you will end up channelling your time and energy into doing their biddings. You will only engage in activities that impress them and not you.

    It’s understandable that as humans we naturally want to be accepted and loved; we want to integrate and feel attached to somewhere or something. However, you should know how to curtail your natural instincts by making intentional decisions. If not, you are no better than other wild animals. After all, animals are all products of nature and most of them are social too. 

    The difference between you and a random animal is that you have a mind of your own and can decide when to please yourself and when to please others.

    Now, for you to maximize your time and be more productive, do not fill your schedule with activities that satisfy people who don’t really care about you but only care about what you can do to please them.

    Rather, embrace more tasks that really matter to you. By so doing, you will be able to take perfect control of your time, your life, and existence.

     

     

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    6. Use The Principle Of Elimination 

    This principle typically suggests that you should carry out only:

    • Realistic tasks 
    • Achievable tasks 
    • Important tasks 
    • Feasible tasks 
    • Productive tasks

    Once the task doesn’t fall under any of the above, then you should consider eliminating it.

    In order to ascertain if the tasks you consider carrying out falls under any of those categories, you have to ask yourself the following questions;

    • Can I do without this particular activity?
    • Is this task something I can accomplish?
    • Can I handle this?
    • How important is this task?
    • Can it wait till later?
    • How vulnerable am I if I don’t complete this task?
    • Am I in any way indebted to anyone if this is left undone?
    • Can this task be automated? Etc.

    By considering all these, you will not only be readier, but you will also be able to know what task to prioritize and the ones that can wait. As a result, you will have a greater capacity to complete the most important tasks.

     

     

    7. There Must Be Rules 

    Set some rules that will enable you to achieve the results you desire. One of the most effective time management tips you should embrace today is making use of certain rules to guide you on the usage of time. When you create rules for yourself, they will act as checks or restrictions to your lapses when it comes to managing your time.

    For example, you can give yourself rules like:

    • No T.V once it’s 9 P.M because that’s time for bed 
    • No Social Media once it’s 8:30 P.M because you need to stay off your phone 30 minutes before bedtime. 
    • No PlayStation during weekdays; this will enable you to channel your time to a more productive task

    Setting up simple rules like the ones mentioned above can go a long way to make your life simple. There won’t be unnecessary time wastage if there are such checks!

     

     

    8. Plan Your Week Ahead 

    This is probably one of the most fundamental time management tips you should take advantage of. You can use Sundays for this activity (to plan the week ahead). Assign days and time to each task at hand. This will give you a blueprint of what your week is going to be like. Check out my guide on things to do every Sunday for a productive week for more guidance.

    There is nothing more important than preparation and there is no better way to get prepared than to plan. Walking into your tasks for the week with a plan will not only get you ready, but you will also be focused on your priority-tasks. 

    Moreover, with a plan ahead, it will be far easier to switch from a weekend mood that is carefree to Monday mood that is work-oriented. 

     

     

    9. Plan Your Day Ahead

    You can simply use 25 minutes to plan each day immediately you wake up from sleep. A perfect way to create this daily plan is through the use of a to-do list. Write down every activity using bullet points. To be more positive about this, you should write each task as if it’s already been completed.

    For example, instead of writing “Make a blog post on time management tips”, you should write something like “Blog post on time management tips completed”.

    By writing down your tasks this way, you’ll be motivated to get them done. 

     

     

    10. Avoid Distractions 

    If you really want to manage your life effectively, then this particular time management tip should be very vital to you. A whole lot of times, we fail to accomplish tasks not because we don’t have the capacity to, but because we are always distracted. 

    You have to deal with those factors that don’t work in your favour to get things done. If there is this hobby or event that drains your time, yet it doesn’t help you to achieve other tasks, then it’s a distraction. Shun it!

    Another way to avoid distractions and get important work done is by avoiding multitasking. Endeavour to take your tasks one after the other (just according to your to-do list). You will be amazed at how much you will finally accomplish by the end of the day.

     

     

    Final thoughts

    Finally, if you must live a life that is fully accountable, then you need to learn to use your time productively. And there is no better way to do this than following some (if not all) of the tips discussed above. Oh, you’re welcome.

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