Life Hacks

Finding Peace in Your Day

Hi friends! I hope you had a relaxing weekend. I’m linking up with Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne, and Sarah today to chat about Finding Peace in Your Day. I have to admit, when I saw the prompt, I wasn’t sure how much peace I actually have on any given day. The first things that popped into my head were the constant noise at preschool, the busyness of every day, and the never-ending chores… phew! So much to do… always. But as I thought more about it, I realised I do find pockets of peace, even when life is full-on. So let’s take a look at what these little moments of peace look like for me. Thanks so much for being here! Finding Peace In My Day Walking When I leave home around 7:45 or 7:50 each morning, I pop in my earbuds and listen to uplifting podcasts or gratitude affirmations. I love the peaceful walk to work—it’s my way of finding peace in the morning. The streets are quiet but not so quiet that I feel uneasy. It’s a great way to get some exercise without feeling like I’m exercising if you know what I mean. I usually power walk, and by the time I get to work, I feel great and ready to start the day. In winter, I also arrive warm, which is a huge plus because I really dislike feeling cold. I love seeing the gardens first thing in the morning along my route, especially now that it’s spring and there are so many pretty blooming flowers everywhere! In the colder months, it’s fun to walk along the pavement crunching the leaves. Ha, I find that so satisfying! Walking home is great too! My earbuds go in, and I either keep listening to a podcast or have my own private version of a silent disco. It’s so tempting to dance in the streets, but of course, I don’t—because that would be weird! I think walking is the perfect way of finding peace in my day. The walk home, in particular, helps the stress and tension of the day melt away with each step. I try to relax my shoulders and avoid clenching my teeth, making sure I’m fully unwinding as I go. By the time I get home, I usually feel relaxed—except for today. Today I felt sick and think I’m coming down with a cold again…boo! A Cup of Tea in the Evening Another way of finding peace in my day is by finishing it with a cup of tea. After everything is done and the kitchen is clean, I go have a shower and then settle in with a cup of tea, milk and one sugar. I snuggle on the sofa, sit on a cushion on the floor, or, lately, sink into a beanbag. If I’m home alone and Steve is at work, I’ll watch my Swedish comedy-drama series (he’s not a fan). If he’s home, we’ll watch FBI, Blue Bloods, or Vera—crime shows that are interesting but not too intense. They’re kind of soothing and I find that these days I avoid intense shows as well as the news. The news is a peace destroyer in my book! Ending the Day I usually fall asleep praying, unless I’m caught up in a loop thinking about the next day or other silly distractions. Praying before falling asleep is the best way I know how to end the day. I surrender everything to God (or try to) and remind myself that I can’t control anything. We are all in His hands. And that’s about it—three simple things that are guaranteed to bring peace to my day. I look forward to being back here on Wednesday, and I hope you have an amazing day. Peace out!          

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Work-Life Balance: Maximising Post-Work Time

Feeling overwhelmed with work-life balance? Do you rush home from work only to find there’s hardly any time before you’re back in the cycle again? You’re not alone! Whether you’re employed or running your own business, the struggle to find quality time out of those post-work hours is real. Even when you’ve got upwards of 6 hours left of the day, the time we get after a full day of work can feel miniscule. How are you supposed to enjoy life when it feels like there’s never going to be a balance between these two worlds? Here are 3 tips that might just work for you.  Pexels Image – CC0 Licence Work-Life Balance: Maximising Post-Work Time Cook Easy Meals (or Plan Ahead!) Let’s face it, whipping up a three-course meal after a long day at work? Not happening. And who has the energy to figure out dinner on the spot, especially if you’ve got a hungry family to feed? Instead of wrestling with these challenges, why not streamline the process by planning your meals ahead of time? Take a moment on the weekend to map out your meals for the week. Then hit the shops to grab everything you need or save even more time by ordering your groceries online. With your meals planned and ingredients stocked, you’ll breeze through dinnertime without the mid-week grocery runs. You can also say goodbye to spending an hour or more in the kitchen preparing meals. That means more relaxation time on the sofa for you! Another way to balance work and life is through batch cooking. Spend time on weekends preparing large batches of meals to freeze and reheat during the week, reducing daily cooking stress. You can also explore meal delivery services for pre-portioned ingredients and recipes, eliminating meal planning and grocery shopping. Opt for simple, quick recipes with minimal prep time to further streamline your cooking routine. By adopting these strategies, you’ll save time and energy in the kitchen, leaving more room to relax and unwind after work Realise That Not Everything Depends On You Handling demanding projects, whether in business or at home, can be tough. Whether it’s managing a big event or keeping your living space clean, the pressure to succeed can weigh heavily. But here’s an important truth: You don’t have to carry the entire burden alone. In the business world, where deadlines loom and expectations run high. It’s quite common for companies to go into overdrive when they’ve got something big in the works, such as attendance at a summit or a new client that requires a lot of time and attention. Hire a professional to help plan your event, such as Catalyst Event Solutions, and make sure you’re properly staffed round the clock to cope with new project demands. Similarly, when it comes to managing your household, think of it as running a small business. Delegate chores among family members or roommates to lighten the load and maintain a harmonious living environment. Outsourcing tasks like cleaning or lawn care can also provide valuable relief, freeing up precious time for activities that bring joy and fulfilment. By sharing tasks and managing resources effectively, you’ll understand that success doesn’t solely depend on you. Remember, you’re just one part of the equation. Strike a balance between work and life, knowing you have support to thrive in both areas. Don’t Be Hard On Yourself For Taking Time to Relax Do you ever find yourself feeling guilty for simply unwinding at home after a long day of work? It’s a common sentiment, but dwelling on it isn’t productive. Remember, you’re not wasting time – you’re taking the opportunity to enjoy yourself! Relaxation is key, even if it’s just for a short time before bed. Don’t feel bad about taking a break – it’s important! Embrace it, and you’ll feel much happier than if you spent the time worrying about being busy all the time. If you’re constantly feeling like your evenings vanish in the blink of an eye, these tips could be just what you need to reclaim your after-work hours and strike that perfect work-life balance!

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5 things I can't live without post

5 Things I Can’t Live Without

Hi friends it’s time to share 5 things I can’t live without on today’s ‘Share Our Lives link up’ hosted by Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne and Sarah. Some are practical and some are personal and they all help me out every day. While I could add essentials like food, water, family, love etc to the list. I’ve narrowed it down to the five items that make my life easier and brighten my days. So, let’s take a look! 5 Things I Can’t Live Without 1. MOBILE PHONE I remember way back in the dark ages when mobile phones first came out and they were known as ‘bricks’. They probably weighed about the same and looked clunky like a brick. I also remember thinking “Who on earth would need to carry a phone around all day. As if anybody ever needs to be that contactable…hmph”. Well, wasn’t I wrong!! Now here I am in 2024 and the mobile phone has made it to the top of the list of things I can’t live without. This tiny little device has become my lifeline! It connects me to friends and family (as well as the occasional scammer). I can check emails, set reminders and alarms, I have endless information and entertainment at my fingertips. It’s almost impossible to imagine life without a mobile phone. Who would have thought? Certainly not me! 2. AIRPODS My kids surprised me with a pair of AirPods for Mother’s Day last year, and I love them! I use them every day when I walk to and from work. Sometimes I listen to a podcast or music, other times I have hands-free conversations. It’s funny how common it is nowadays to see people out and about seemingly talking to themselves with earphones in. I used to think it was so weird, ha! But now I’ve joined the club! 3. THE INTERNET I can’t imagine a world without the internet and it definitely makes it on my list of things I can’t live without. I know that I’m not alone either. Because on the odd tragic occasion when our internet service hasn’t been working. My whole family (myself included) behaves as if we have had our oxygen supply cut off and our very survival is at stake! 4. ORTHOTICS A while ago, I shared how I suffered from annoying lower back pain that made every day a misery for me. Thankfully, I saw a podiatrist who saved me with custom-made orthotics that support my arch and align my knees, meaning no more back pain for me! Now that I wear orthotics inside my comfortable work shoes, I could never live without them. While my everyday footwear isn’t the fanciest because I have to buy shoes that fit my orthotics, no pain trumps fancy shoes! Plus, the good news for me is that I can wear any shoes I like whenever I go out and on the weekends. Wearing orthotics every workday does the trick in keeping my dodgy knees aligned. 5. COMPUTER AND LAPTOP My computer means that I can do what I love and that is blogging! For the longest time, I held back from starting a blog, partly due to shyness and mostly because I didn’t have my own laptop. Then, I inherited my son’s old Macbook he used for school when they had to upgrade in year 12. It changed everything and I finally took the plunge and started blogging. Then last year I got an iMac and I felt like such a grown-up because it’s so sleek and fancy! That’s a wrap for today! Thanks so much for being here as I shared the 5 things I can’t live without. What are some of yours? Please share, I’d love to know!  

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3 Tips To Overcome Your Insecurities

No matter how impeccably put-together someone may appear, let’s face it: insecurities are a common part of the human experience. Whether arising from childhood memories, dissatisfaction with one’s looks, past traumas, or the dreaded comparison game, these persistent doubts have a knack for infiltrating minds and causing feelings of inadequacy. They can lead to an obsession over appearance, incessant worry about the future, or feeling small in social situations. It’s essential for personal growth and fulfilment to overcome your insecurities. Despite their knack for causing distress, there’s a silver lining: insecurities don’t have to define us. In fact, they can be the catalyst for profound personal growth and resilience. By arming ourselves with the right tools and mindset, we can transform these insecurities into sources of strength. So, let’s dive into some empowering strategies to overcome your insecurities and emerge even stronger on the other side! 3 Tips To Overcome Your Insecurities Face Your Negative Feelings: Confronting Insecurities Head-On Ready to take on those feelings of inadequacy like a true champion? The first step is to shine a spotlight on those sneaky beliefs and perceptions you have about yourself. Instead of sweeping them under the rug, let’s get curious! Dive deep and uncover what’s triggering those fears and anxieties. And hey, don’t be afraid to question them. It’s time to flip the script! Say you’re gearing up for that nerve-wracking job interview. Instead of letting doubts run rampant, pump yourself up with positive reasons why you are the perfect fit for the job. Now, it’s time to map out your battle plan. Pinpoint those areas where your insecurities like to lurk and craft a strategy to show them who’s boss. And remember, perfection is overrated! Embrace those quirks and imperfections—they’re what make you uniquely awesome! So, are you ready to kick those insecurities to the curb and unleash your inner confidence? You’ve got this! Embrace Your Unique Beauty Embracing self-love and acceptance is crucial on the journey to overcome insecurities, especially those related to our physical appearance. Let’s face it, those physical insecurities can feel like a constant battle, staring back at us from every mirror and echoing in every negative comment. But here’s the thing: while you can overcome some of these challenges, others are simply part of what makes you uniquely you. However, if there’s something within your control that you’d like to change, go for it! For example, if you’re not thrilled with your teeth, cosmetic dentistry could be just the ticket to a winning smile! And why not explore shedding a few pounds or experimenting with a fresh hairstyle? It’s like hitting the reset button on your confidence! Furthermore, if you’re dealing with minor style hiccups, consider diving into body type research and curating a killer capsule wardrobe that truly reflects you. It’s all about embracing the journey of self-enhancement and feeling absolutely fabulous in your own skin! Embrace The Adventure Feeling stuck in your comfort zone? Break free and unleash your full potential! Don’t let insecurities hold you back – Instead, spark your creativity and boost your courage by trying new things. When was the last time you challenged yourself? Discover new passions and uncover what truly drives you. Whether it’s trying out a new hobby or embarking on a thrilling adventure, now’s your chance to shake things up! Start by creating your very own bucket list – jot down those daring dreams and aspirations that give you butterflies. From exploring far-off lands to achieving those lofty career goals, let your imagination run wild! Once you’ve got your list, it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Break it down into actionable steps and watch as you inch closer to your goals with each stride. And hey, you don’t have to go it alone! Share your bucket list with a trusted friend or family member who’ll cheer you on every step of the way. Together, you’ll overcome your insecurities and unleash a whole new world of possibilities! Conclusion Viewing insecurities as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery is crucial. Remember, progress takes time, so patience is key. Each step forward, regardless of size, brings you closer to your aspirations. Insecurities are just part of the journey, not the final destination. Confronting insecurities head-on, embracing your unique qualities, and diving into new experiences can transform weaknesses into strengths. With confidence and acknowledging your inner strength, you’ll conquer any doubts that arise. Everyone possesses incredible potential waiting to be unleashed. Celebrate your progress, honour your strengths, and embrace life with optimism. Keep moving forward, because each step takes you closer to being able to overcome your insecurities and be your best self!  

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Feeling More Confident In The Workplace:6 Strategies For 2024

Confidence in the workplace is a far more important quality to nurture than you’d think. When you are confident in the workplace and believe in yourself, you are more likely to dive into new experiences and broaden your horizons. Confident people have also been seen to enjoy better relationships, have higher productivity, and increased resilience. But how can you become more confident in the workplace? While you may not be able to transform this aspect of your personality overnight, there’s a lot that you can do to feel immediately more confident – and see the benefits from it! Let’s explore some effective strategies that are essential for you to know. How To Feel More Confident In The Workplace Invest In High-Quality Beauty Services Ever noticed how your confidence skyrockets when you’re feeling great about yourself? It’s true! Our self-image and confidence go hand in hand. Luckily, there are simple ways to boost that self-image without endless effort. Of course, nutrition, exercise, and sleep are key players, but there’s a quick fix too: top-notch beauty services! Picture this: a haircut that perfectly complements your features, courtesy of experts like the team at Head Office Hair Specialist. Or imagine the magic of a makeup artist who knows just how to highlight your best features or a beautician who can work wonders for your skin. These professionals aren’t just skilled – they’re confidence boosters! Dress To Impress: How Your Outfit Influences The Mind Next up, let’s dive into your daily wardrobe choices! While we all have our own unique style, have you ever considered how the fit of your clothes impacts your confidence? It’s pretty remarkable! Studies have seen that when we dress in attire associated with power, confidence, and intelligence, we actually start to embody those qualities. You don’t have to break the bank on a shopping spree to feel more confident, though. Just take a moment to tune into how your clothes make you feel. Pay attention to which outfits naturally boost your confidence and make you feel unstoppable Nip Stress In The Bud At Home Stress can make you feel irritable and less capable of concentrating in important situations. So, take a step back and introduce some stress-busting techniques that can help you better manage everyday situations and emotions. Some ideas include: Improve Sleep Quality: Establish a consistent bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath. Avoid screens and stimulating activities before bed. Aim for a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Practice Mindfulness Meditation: Set aside a few minutes daily for mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet space and focus on your breath or a specific sensation. Gently bring your focus back when your mind wanders. Utilize Deep Breathing Exercises: Take slow, deep breaths, filling your lungs and exhaling slowly. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for 4, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Repeat several times to calm your nervous system. Create A Tranquil Home Environment: Introduce home management strategies that will help you create and maintain a stress-free home environment. Declutter your living space to create a sense of calm and order. Use calming colours and natural materials in your decor. Incorporate soothing scents with candles or essential oil diffusers. Seek Support When Needed: Reach out to a therapist or counsellor for guidance and support. Lean on friends and family who are willing to listen and offer encouragement. Remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Build Your Own Power Routine Creating your personal power routine can be a way to evoke feelings of confidence, steadiness, and resilience. The beauty of creating your own ritual lies in its versatility—you have the freedom to explore various methods that resonate with you. Whether it’s dancing freely, striking a commanding pose, accessorizing with your favourite jewellery, belting out a tune, or simply adjusting your posture, the possibilities are endless. Moreover, there are additional strategies you can incorporate to instantly boost your confidence. For instance, rehearsing your speech or presentation beforehand can help you feel more prepared and self-assured when the big day arrives. And let’s not overlook the importance of caring for your body through proper nutrition and regular exercise—maintaining a healthy lifestyle can greatly contribute to your overall confidence and well-being. Invest In Learning And Education Investing in learning and education is like giving yourself a confidence boost on demand! Learning a new skill will give you an immediate rush of confidence! Delving into a new skill isn’t just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about igniting a sense of excitement and empowerment within yourself. Plus, lifelong learning isn’t just good for your brain; it’s a powerful tool for maintaining mental sharpness and well-being. Stop Comparing Yourself To Others! Last but not least stop comparing yourself to others! We’ve all been there, caught up in envy from time to time. But here’s the thing: constantly measuring yourself against others can drain your energy and hold you back from reaching your full potential. Instead, be your own biggest supporter and cheer on every little success. Whether it’s finishing a work task or just getting through a tough day, each win counts. Focus on your journey, embrace your strengths, and watch your confidence grow. Stop comparing yourself to others and start showing yourself some kindness. Celebrate those small victories—they’re the key to feeling more confident! In Conclusion Investing in being confident in the workplace is crucial. By embracing personal strengths, celebrating victories, and avoiding comparisons, individuals create an environment where being confident in the workplace is not just encouraged but celebrated!  

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money saving tips

Money Saving Tips

Hi friends and welcome to the October edition of “Not Just A Mom” hosted by Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne, Lauren and Sarah. Today we are sharing our top money-saving tips. I am excited to chat about this topic because I’m always down for exchanging ideas on how to save money. Especially now considering the way the economy is going with prices on the rise constantly. Have you noticed how everything is becoming pricier? From petrol and groceries to electricity, health insurance and housing everything seems to have become significantly more expensive. So let’s take a look at some money-saving tips that I find helpful in keeping costs down. Following these tips gives my wallet a little breathing space. It also leaves me a little extra moolah to enjoy a few of life’s little pleasures. Money Saving Tips Create a budget Ugh! I started with the most sensible and obvious tip but it’s not my favourite. Budgets kind of stress me out a little because they feel like such a huge commitment! But having said that I know that keeping track of my income and expenses and allocating amounts for each category including bills, groceries, entertainment and savings is the way to go. Cook at Home and Prep Your Own Ingredients Cooking meals at home is probably my favourite money-saving tip. I quite enjoy cooking these days as I don’t have starving little children to feed. So now I can take my time and enjoy the process more than I used to. I also think that ordering takeaway food regularly is a sure way to drain the old budget. We tend to prefer to save this money and instead treat ourselves to a nice dinner out occasionally. Another money-saving tip is to pre-prep your own ingredients. I know I know!…. Sometimes it’s so much easier to buy the conveniently pre-sliced and pre-prepped options from the supermarket but they are about double the price. So I tend to stay away from them and pre-prep my ingredients as much as possible. Automate Your Savings One of the best ways that I have found to save money is to set up automatic transfers from our regular account to a savings account. This “pay yourself idea” means that I can save money regularly and hardly even notice it. DIY Whenever Possible Do-it-yourself projects can mean big savings! Recently I committed myself to the task of sanding back and repainting our doorways and skirting boards. It wasn’t the most exciting task but I knew that hiring a painter would have cost a small fortune. It would be great if we were handier and could do things ourselves such as fixing leaky faucets or handling basic electrical tasks. These DIY skills would mean huge savings as rates for tradies can be so expensive! Shop Smart Smart Savings On Cleaning Essentials: Why pay full price for household cleaning products when you can grab them at a discount? I am constantly on the lookout for when my favourite laundry pods and dishwashing capsules go on sale at half the price. My number one rule is to NEVER pay the full amount for these items because  I know that I can always get them at a significant discount. I do however make sure not to wait until the last minute and always buy them in advance so I don’t miss out on the savings. Savings on Fresh Produce: When fruit and veggies are in season they are not only fresher but they are also more budget-friendly at the supermarket due to their abundance. So opting for seasonal produce is a fantastic money-saving tip that helps keep my grocery costs down. I just need to be strong and not give in to my cravings for summer fruits in the winter! Don’t Grocery Shop When You’re Hungry: One money-saving tip that I swear by is never to go shopping on an empty stomach. Even when I’m doing my online grocery order! I know that if I’m hungry I will for sure add extra items to my cart that I don’t really need. Those impulse buys can add up fast and blow my food budget. Refill Your Pump Bottles: Another one of my small but effective money-saving tips is to buy liquid soap in larger and more cost-effective containers. Then I simply refill my own pump bottles that I bought from Ikea. This is great for not only keeping costs down but also reducing the amount of packaging waste…it’s a win/win! Meatless Monday It doesn’t have to be a Monday! I just try and include one meatless meal a week not just for money-saving reasons but for health reasons too. Going meat-free for at least one meal and eating vegetables, legumes and grains adds variety and reduces food costs. Thankfully the only whinging that I have to put up with is my own one that goes around in my head. I just love meat!! Avoid Impulse Buying Ooooh, this one is a bit of a tricky one, especially if I’m out looking at clothes! I don’t have a problem resisting the urge to buy nick nacks or ornaments. It’s clothing that tends to lure me in. But I do try hard to avoid buying things impulsively. I also stick to only buying clothes or shoes that I absolutely love and won’t be able to sleep EVER if I don’t. In addition, the price has to be reasonable and I try to not use girl maths to justify my purchase. Review Insurance Policies This is a good one on the list of money-saving tips so I really should make a point of doing this yearly. It takes a bit of effort to make the call to try and get better deals on insurance but it’s well worth the effort. You can save a lot of money on special competitive deals! So there we have it, a few simple money-saving tips that I stick to. Some of these tips not only help me keep costs down but

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Favourite Cleaning Hacks

Hi there friends! I’m excited to be back today linking up with Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne, Lauren and Sarah for Not Just A Mom. Today we are going to be looking at Favourite Cleaning Hacks. As someone who loves a clean home, I am always on the lookout for new and easy ways to keep my space looking nice and tidy. So I really love exploring new cleaning hacks. Because let’s face it who doesn’t love a good easy hack that makes cleaning less of a mundane chore? Why Are Cleaning Hacks Great? My favourite cleaning hacks always offer creative ways to tackle everyday cleaning tasks to make life a whole lot easier. They save me time and money and a big bonus is that they use simple household items that I usually already have at home. Cleaning hacks also help me to become more efficient and effective in my everyday cleaning routine. By learning new and alternative methods of cleaning. I can reduce the amount of time and effort needed to smash out certain tasks. And I love this because it gives me more time to get onto doing other things that I would much rather spend my time on. Cleaning hacks aren’t just great for getting things done in a flash, they also save my sanity! Because they give me a sense of control and accomplishment and this helps to reduce anxiety and stress. Yes, I sure love a good cleaning hack! I recently wrote a Simple Cleaning Hacks post. And in this post, I listed a whole lot of easy, quick and eco-friendly ideas to make your cleaning routine a breeze and you can find this post right here. But today I also wanted to share my favourite big cleaning hacks that bring together all the little tips and tricks into a complete and thorough cleaning routine. Cleaning Hacks Declutter Regularly Regularly organizing and decluttering your home makes cleaning so much easier and way more efficient. Get rid of all the stuff taking up space that you no longer need and then find a place for everything else. Create A Cleaning Schedule If you plan out a weekly or monthly cleaning schedule that includes all the necessary tasks then you won’t miss anything and you’ll be able to stay on top of your cleaning game! Use A Cleaning Checklist I used to dislike checklists because they reminded me of school assignments but now I’m a total convert!  I think that making a list of all the cleaning tasks that need to be done is a fantastic guide. And  I don’t have to waste time trying to remember what needs to be cleaned or worry about missing something. I have discovered that checklists are quite friendly and helpful. Furthermore, it’s also very satisfying to tick off all the tasks as I go. Have All The Right Equipment In One Place Having all the right cleaning tools and equipment in a cupboard or a caddy can make all the difference. It saves you time from trying to find what you need and you can get right onto knocking those cleaning tasks off your list. Clean As You Go This is such a top tip! Instead of waiting until the house is a mess, clean as you go throughout the day. Wipe down surfaces, put things back where they belong after using them, and tidy up as you move from one task to another. Cleaning can be a pain but it doesn’t always have to be. These cleaning hacks and tips have transformed my cleaning routine from a major chore to a more manageable and satisfying task. If You Are Looking For Some Extra Cleaning Motivation You Might Find It Here How To Keep A Clean House Negative effects Of Clutter And How You Can Change It How To Get Motivated To Clean And Organise How To Make Your Home Smell Amazing      

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Organisation Tips For A Busy Family

Hey everyone! It’s the first ‘Let’s Look’ for 2023 and we are kicking off the series with some organisation tips as the topic for January is scheduling/organising a busy family. I enjoy being part of this link-up with Erika and Shay because it is a great way to share some really useful tips. And it’s also fun to catch a glimpse of how we do everyday life. It’s funny how the seasons of life change. One minute you’re in the thick of it with a million things to try and organise. The next you’re not. At the moment I’m at the stage when life has calmed down in a lot of ways because my kids are all grown up. And I only have one son living at home as my oldest son moved out a few years ago. But I do remember and it certainly doesn’t feel like it was that long ago. When we were so busy trying to squeeze in work, school, sports, homework and everything else in between. Yep, those days were certainly full on, to say the least. And when it was all happening I would feel like “oh my goodness will this never end” and then it does (insert sad face). Anyway here are some of the things that I did to organise my busy family when I was ‘in the trenches’. Some of the things on this list I still need to do because I work full time, my husband works unusual hours and my son has just finished school but will be starting uni soon. So we still have to keep track of what we are all up to as far as chores, appointments and commitments go. Organisation Tips For A Busy Family Write Everything Down It is just so easy to forget things and lose track of what events are coming up. The only way that I could ever remember things was and still is. Is to write everything down! I like to write things in my diary/planner and then back in the day when we had the whole family doing this, that and the other. I would write everyone’s schedule on one big calendar using different coloured pens. And each person in our family had their own colour. I’m a visual person. So writing everything down in different colours just made it a whole lot easier for me to remember who was doing what. Organise Stationery Supplies Stationery just makes me so happy so this was fun to do. I have a shelf in my home office where I keep a whole lot of stationery supplies at hand. There we have all the things that we needed for school such as pens, pencils, spare ink for the printer, highlighters, rulers, erasers, paper, plastic sleeves etc. I could go on and on because even just writing about stationery gives me joyful goosebumps! This shelf was a total lifesaver because it meant that we were never caught out having to run to the shops to grab stationery supplies. Especially things like ink for the printer. We always seemed to run out of ink when a big assignment needed to be printed at 11 pm. Those were the days!! Sam will be starting uni in February so I’m sure that he will be raiding the stationery shelf again soon. Create A Cleaning Routine Finding a routine that suits you will make keeping a clean home so much less stressful. My cleaning routine is different now than it was when my kids were younger. I had much less time when we had so many other commitments like swimming lessons, art classes, hockey, taekwondo, and jiu-jitsu. So I let some things go during the week to save my sanity. Consequently, I spent more time cleaning and doing laundry on the weekends than I do now. It’s just a matter of adjusting and being consistent. Meal Plan Ahem…..confession…..I love to meal plan and I start off strong at the beginning of each school term. But sometimes by the end of the term I slacken off and then I find myself on the struggle bus. But when I do meal plan like a champ then the week is just so much easier! Shopping, sticking to a budget, and of course, knowing what to cook each day is a breeze when I meal plan. Keep A Stash Of Birthday Cards I like to keep a small stash of birthday cards and I will stock up on them if I ever see them discounted. My son and his friends have all recently turned eighteen. So he has been invited to quite a few parties recently. I grabbed a few birthday cards when I saw them on sale at Typo. And they have come in real handy! Have A Place For Everything One of the best organisation tips for a busy family is to keep a place for everything. When school excursion notes would come in I would sign the permission slip straight away, write it on the calendar and then file the note. Because the note always came with instructions for what time to be at school for the bus, uniform or clothing that they had to wear and supplies that they needed for the day. I also have a file for birth certificates, passports, and other important documents. It just makes it so much easier when everything is in one place. Keep Cleaning Supplies In A Caddy As far as organisation tips go this one is great for eliminating unnecessary frustration! Years ago I used to keep some cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink and some in the laundry. I used to frustrate myself by going back and forth gathering my cleaning supplies. Then one day I had a lightbulb moment and I bought myself a cleaning caddy. And now all I do is grab my caddy when I need to clean and everything I need is there in one place. Have A Notepad In The Kitchen For

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Simple Things to be happy about

Simple Things To Be Happy About

Sometimes life can throw some real curve balls at us. But even though we might not feel happy during challenging times. I think that it’s important to remember that there are a whole lot of things that we can be happy about. It’s important for our mental health and well-being to practice gratitude. So today I have put together a list of simple things to be happy about. When we recognise the simple things that bring us a sense of happiness then we will soon realise that we really do have a whole lot of things in our lives that we can be thankful for every day. Simple Things To Be Happy About A Hot Shower After A Long Day Washing away a long hard day in a soothing hot shower is my absolute favourite thing to do. When I step out of the shower and feel all squeaky clean then put on some fresh clothes I instantly feel happier. Dancing It’s hard to stay grumpy when you hear your favourite music from your teenage years. Go ahead and dance like there is no one watching. Better still find a fun exercise dance class and dance your way to happiness every week! Laughing So Hard Your Sides Hurt This is just such a great feeling! Apple Pie And Ice Cream The best go-to comfort dessert ever! Perfect for either cold winter nights or warm summer days. Stationery New pens, notepads, sticky notes and shiny paper clips. They are just instant mood lifters. My favourite stationery shop for all these lovely stationery items is Kikki. K. Fresh Clean Sheets The feel and smell of crisp clean sheets are one of the most simple things to be happy about. Washing Your Hair I love how soft my hair feels after I wash it. Then every time I catch the smell of shampoo it just makes me feel so happy. Cuddling Up Next To Your Partner On The Sofa I feel warm cozy and safe when I cuddle up next to my husband on the sofa. Of course, if we are watching something scary on TV then he is on his own because I’ll be cuddling the closest pillow! Lunch Breaks I always joke with my coworkers that the best part of the working day is lunch breaks! Fridays Even the hardest days are bearable when it’s a Friday and you know that you have the weekend to look forward to. Scented Candles Lovely soft scents evoke feelings of warmth and coziness. Getting Dressed Up I love having a fun event to look forward to that requires getting all dressed up. I feel so happy planning my wardrobe, hair and make-up leading up to the event. Cheese Boards And Wine Any favourite food will always make me feel very happy. But enjoying a lovely glass of wine with a cheeseboard just always feels so luxurious. Sleeping In Waking up naturally without the shock of the alarm going off makes me feel so relaxed for the rest of the day. Rainbows When I spot a rainbow in the sky I am reminded of how even after all the dark clouds and rain there will eventually be some bright sunny, colourful days. My beautiful friend also encouraged me to remember that rainbows are like a sign from our loved ones in heaven saying hello to us. Holding A Baby Cuddling new life in our arms is just so precious. Long Distance Phone Calls From Family Or Friends I love chatting with my aunt and cousin who live so far away in the USA. We spend ages catching up and reminiscing. My face almost hurts from so much smiling after we have finished our long-distance conversations! Watching A Good Comedy Spending a couple of hours lost in a good comedy plot can do wonders to lift my mood. Receiving Parcels In The Mail When I receive a parcel in the mail, I feel as excited as I do when I unwrap a birthday gift! Seeing A Ladybird Ladybirds remind me of spring. So whenever I see one I feel happy because it means that warmer days are just around the corner. They are also the only bugs that I am not deathly afraid of! Having  A Clean House Nothing beats the feeling of a fresh clean house because it means that I can relax and enjoy myself without worrying about any housework waiting to get done. Seeing The Bottom Of The Laundry Hamper Even though this lasts about one minute in our house. It’s still one whole entire minute of happiness! Squeaky Clean Teeth Squeaky clean teeth mean lovely fresh breath Visiting An Antique Store My happy place is a big antique shop called Mitchell Road Antique And Design Centre located in Sydney. Whenever I go for a visit it’s like I take a trip down memory lane. Seeing all the fun decor from the ’70s and ’80s makes me feel so happy…….ah those were the days! Fairy Lights Fairy lights are just so magical and can make any space look so inviting. You can’t help but feel happy whenever you are around some pretty fairy lights Family Get Togethers Having family in our life is just so special and I think that it’s so important to never take them for granted. The happiest memories that I have are the ones of my family being together. Having My Hair Stroked I love having my hair stroked because it just feels so soothing. It’s just the best feeling when someone plays with my hair!   Related Articles Ways To Be Instantly Happier How To Stay Positive In A Negative World    

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simple hacks

Simple Life Hacks That Actually Work

Life hacks are simple and very useful shortcuts that make everyday tasks easier and save you time. Everyone needs some simple life hacks that they can refer to for sensible solutions.  Here is a list of 15 simple life hacks that actually work and that I use all the time. I hope that you find them useful too! A List Of Simple Life Hacks That Actually Work 1. Keep Your Alarm Out Of Your Reach If you struggle to get out of bed in the mornings as I do. Then one good tip that I have found to be incredibly useful. It is to place your alarm or phone across the room and away from your comfy cozy bed. That way when the alarm goes off in the morning. You will have no choice but to get out of bed to turn it off. There is no chance of hitting that tempting snooze button if your alarm is not within your reach. 2. Prepare The Night Before A good way to start the day off feeling more organised is to get your things ready the night before. Doing simple things like deciding what to wear and then laying out your clothes the night before can be a real game changer. If you have kids this is also a great habit to teach them. It’s no fun running around looking for sports uniforms, misplaced shoes or library bags in the morning. Everyone will leave the house feeling totally frazzled and it’s definitely not a nice way to start the day. Another thing that can make mornings easier is to pack lunches the night before. I know that it can be tempting to leave it until the morning. But again if lunches are all made the night before then this is one less chore that will eat away at your precious morning time. 3. Have A Designated Spot For Everything A place for everything and everything in its place. This is such a great motto for life! If you have a designated spot for things like keys, wallets, sunglasses and hand sanitisers etc. Then you will always know where to find them. I think that the best place to keep all these things is right near your entryway. Even if you have a small entryway it’s still very helpful to have either a shelf, table or even a basket where you can drop all these essentials when you walk in the door. Then all your items will be in one place ready for you to grab when you leave home again the next time. 4. Clean As You Cook Another simple life hack that makes everyday life so much easier. Is to clean the kitchen as you cook instead of leaving a pile of dirty pots and pans until the end. While you are waiting for something to boil or the oven to heat up. Why not go ahead and clean and pack away the things that you have already used and won’t be needed again? You can also use this waiting time to do things like wipe out your microwave, clean the finger marks off your cupboards or give your fridge a quick tidy up and throw anything out that has seen better days. 5. Make Your Bed Every Morning Your bedroom will look instantly tidier once you have made your bed. It takes only minutes to make your bed in the morning. And the benefit of feeling like you have already accomplished a task is great motivation. 6. Keep A Water Bottle On Your Bedside Table If you keep a water bottle on your bedside table then it is so much easier to remember to hydrate first thing in the morning. I function so much better when I remember to drink water. I also like to have a small glass of water before bed and sometimes I get thirsty during the night. So it’s handy if I have water within easy reach. 7. Cook Extra Whatever you cook for dinner, go ahead and make a bit extra. That way you will have leftovers for lunch the next day. Or a meal for the freezer which will always come in handy. If I am making a casserole I will usually make a double batch and freeze one batch in a zip lock bag. Perfect for those crazy busy nights when there is no time to cook! 8. Easy Way To Clean Your Kettle Kettles are one of those appliances that can get easily overlooked. Have you looked inside yours lately? Chances are that it might need a good cleaning. A super easy way to bring your kettle back to its dazzling shine. Is to fill it with a mixture of half white vinegar and half water then leave it overnight. In the morning all you need to do is rinse it out and it will be as clean as can be. 9. Sock Solution Odd socks are one of those things that drive me crazy. A simple life hack to deal with this is buying the same type of socks whenever possible. 10. Washing Toys Children’s toys can get very germy and even sticky. A good way to give them a good wash is to simply pop them inside a laundry bag to keep them contained. Then wash them in warm soapy water and lay them out to dry in the sun. This simple hack is useful at home if you have children or if you work in an early childhood education setting where toys need to be washed regularly. 11. Lint Rollers Lint rollers are not only perfect for removing pet hair from your furniture. Lint rollers are also great for removing dust from fabric lamp shades. 12. Easy Glass Cleaner If you want sparkly shower screens, mirrors or glass table tops, ditch the spray-on window cleaners. Because they always seem to leave streaks. Even the ones that say streak-free on the label. Instead, simply use a damp microfibre cloth

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