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Strategies & Ideas to Transform Your Life

Ava O

Personal Finance ·

Four Things to Consider before You Spend Your Money.

One of the principles of personal finance is to ‘spend less than you earn’.

You have probably heard that countless times, I know I have. But it also happens to be one of the hardest money rules to follow.

This is because spending is more emotional than logical.

Our emotions play an active role in our desires more than we would like to acknowledge.

We tend to make emotional buying decisions and then find reasons to justify the expense.

I have heard it all and then some.

“I was feeling sad, and I needed something that will make me feel better” is a common one when we splurge on an expensive meal or item.

The problem is that spending this way fails to address the root problems. For some of us, therapy is often more effective than shopping, but we know which one is more fun, at least in the moment.

“Doing well with money has little to do with how smart you are and a lot to do with how you behave.”

Morgan Housel

Wants vs. Needs: Situating Our Spending Habits

It is a good idea to identify our ‘why’ when making purchases –

Why am I buying this?

Why is this item or service necessary?

Why am I buying this now? Etc.

This helps us determine if the item is a ‘want’ or a ‘need’. In simple English, needs are things we cannot do without like food, clothing, shelter, transportation, and connection. While wants are things we like or desire.

The interesting thing is that a want will often be an exaggerated version of a need.

For example, the fact that we all need shoes to protect our feet does not mean we need to buy a designer pair of slingbacks with a red bottom. That will clearly be a want.

Our wants often have a stronger pull than our needs. Do you know why?

I believe our wants are often connected to our deepest wishes and desires.

Social media has become a strong basis for a particular lifestyle. It continues to influence our buying decisions and our justifications for our purchases. Morgan Housel in The Psychology of Money says:

“Savings can be created by spending less. You can spend less if you desire less. And you will desire less if you care less about what others think of you.”

Now that you have a better idea of your needs vis a vis your wants, here are a few other things to considerin order to spend the right way:

Four things to Consider before You Buy Anything.

These four factors are connected, and you may need to think of all four before you make a purchase. 

1. The Cost of the Items 

    Price matters.

    The amount of money we spend on things is important, though it is often hard to properly categorise this. To effectively examine the cost of a product it is equally important to consider the benefit. Yes, I’m taking you back to Economics 101 – cost benefit analysis (CBA). This simply means that we consider the cost and benefit of buying something as opposed to other alternatives.

    For instance, you may be thinking about paying for an online course, moving to a new place, or even doing another round of grocery shopping.

    It may mean considering the benefits of taking that online class as compared with the cost, and if the alternative – taking a cheaper course or not taking the course makes more sense. The benefits may not necessarily be immediate, but it is good to articulate the potential benefits and try to be as realistic as possible.

    I will also add that CBA does not have to be a long-drawn-out case of ‘analysis paralysis’ or an internal battle on whether you should spend.

    In other words, it may not be practicable for small purchases though I have found that once you incorporate the CBA mode of thinking, you are more likely to apply it to all purchases. Particularly for items that are not on your shopping list.

    Getting that $1.99 pastry may not be a big deal but can quickly add up if you find yourself doing it often.

    2. The Quality of the Items

    When thinking about a purchase, it is useful to consider the sort of quality you need. Higher quality goods/services generally cost more. This is the case for food, clothing, furniture and even education. Case in point, a two- year degree at Harvard may cost more than a four-year degree at a local university in Nebraska.

    Notwithstanding the above, quality can also be subjective. Webster’s dictionary defines quality as “superiority in kind.” This means quality is graded. For instance, clothes at Target may be of a higher quality than those at Walmart, while clothes from Zara trump those from Target.
    In a sense, you get to determine what quality works in the different scenarios. When thinking about quality, you should consider:

    • Your budget
    • How frequently you will use the item.
    • How important the purchase is (you don’t want to be pennywise pound foolish on matters of health).

    3. The Quantity or Frequency of the Purchase 

    The number of items you need to buy and how often you need to make such purchases are important considerations to make before you spend.

    It may be better to spend less for items that you need frequently to ensure it does not cause a financial strain. For me, I used to be addicted to cereals and would eat cereals several times a week. Knowing this, I realised I couldn’t continue to buy the big brand names – Kelloggs, Nestlé etc, which cost more than the store brands. I also had to change my buying habits for most of my groceries, opting for store options.

    Of course, this is a personal decision and will often depend on your budget, your savings goals, and your values.

    4. Your Values and Goals

    You’re probably rolling your eyes at this one. But like many other things we do, our purchases say a lot about us.

    The things we spend our money on often reflects our values, our goals, and our preoccupations.

    As I mentioned earlier, social media continues to influence our buying decisions much more than we had like to admit. These days, I see ladies spending on clothes and accessories to the detriment of other areas of their life. They would rather skimp on healthy food to buy a nice wig or accessory.

    “When your values are clear to you, making decisions becomes easier.”

    Roy E. Disney

    Now is the time to allow your purchases reflect your truth. I will be the first to say this is a hard one but not impossible. It takes discipline, humility, and honesty to remain true to ourselves in this area of our life.

    What do you consider before you spend?

    I have just shared four things that can help with your buying decisions.

    Are there other things you consider? Please share in the comments.

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    Personal Finance ·

    20 Easy Money Making Ideas Your Should Try

    Making money is an indisputable part of growing your income and a crucial aspect of personal finance.

    It is literally the first step to building wealth.

    This means that anyone looking to transform their finances must learn how to generate income on a consistent basis.

    In addition, we are better off when we can earn income from more than one source.

    And as a lifelong student of personal finance, I am always on the lookout for opportunities to earn more income, so you can imagine my excitement when I came across a post on IG, a couple of months ago, sharing a game-changing idea.

    I can’t remember whose post it was, but I recall that this person asked readers to take some time to write out 20 things they can do to generate income.

    And it had to be done in one seating.

    I tried it (after claiming it wasn’t possible) and I was pleasantly surprised by the result. 😅🙈

    Yes, I came up with 20 income generating ideas, many of which I will be sharing in this post.

    What I loved about this exercise is that it gave me a chance to consider my interests, and opportunities that I may never have considered. I hope you get to do so as well.

    This list of 20 income generating ideas is by no means exhaustive.

    I encourage you to also come with additional options that closely align with your interests, skills, and current level in life.

    One thing I know is that you will be pleasantly surprised by the result and may just find a few ideas that are worth exploring now or in the not-too-distant future.

    PIN FOR LATER

    Some links on this post are affiliate links and we may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you click these link. For more information, check out our disclosures

    5 Benefits of Increasing Your Current Income

    1. Increases financial security.

      The reality of life is that the more income you have, the more money you can save and invest. And the more money you have saved, the more secure you feel.

      Financial security means you have enough to cover your living expenses and are not thrown off when there is an emergency expense.

      2. You have more Choices.

      Increasing your income gives you more choices. Having more money creates some flexibility and room for you. Who wouldn’t want that!

      3. It Creates Financial Stability.

      Financial stability as the name suggests refers to you having a buffer to ensure you don’t go into debt or financial crisis when an unexpected event occurs.

      4. It Improves Work/Life Balance.

      Many of us are tied to our proverbial work desks because we believe we don’t have a choice, or we are so dependent on the paycheck that comes in.

      Imagine what having multiple streams of income can do for you? It means you can decide not to take on more hours at work and use that time to hang out with your loved ones or try out new hobbies.

      Like I mentioned above, more income gives you more choices, and you are better able to do things that serve you and the life you wish to live.

      5. You arrive at Financial Independence much quicker.

      Financial independence is the goal for many of us. You may have heard about the FIRE movement which stands for Financial Independence Retire Early which is made up of a cluster of millennials and Gen Z’s who are choosing to retire much earlier than 65 years unlike most of our parents.

      20 Income Generating Ideas to Try

      Remember to keep an open mind while you check out these opportunities.

      “Every accomplishment starts with a decision to try.”

      Gail Devers

      1. Create a digital product.
      2. Offer a one-off service.
      3. Write an e-book.
      4. Request an increase in your current salary or income.
      5. Invest in interest bearing assets.
      6. Become a High Earning Freelancer.
      7. Buy dividend paying stocks.
      8. Earn commissions on sales.
      9. Start a Side Hustle.
      10. Invest in a local business.
      11. Sell your unused items on platforms like Facebook marketplace etc
      12. Rent out your spare room.
      13. Buy a rental property. (This can be crowdfunded or independently)
      14. Learn a tech skill like web or graphic design and offer this service.
      15. Work as a virtual assistant
      16. Participate in Paid Surveys and Research.
      17. Provide an online or offline tutoring or coaching service.
      18. Sell worksheets and templates.
      19. Consider paid speaking events.
      20. Invest in a farm.

      STOP WAITING AND START DOING

      “If you wait until the wind and the weather is just right, you will never sow anything and never harvest anything.”

      Ecclesiastes 11:4

      I love the above quote’s no nonsense stance on why we need to act rather than remain passive(spectators on life). Many times, we know what to do or have ideas we wish to explore but rather than taking action, we sit on it waiting for the perfect time.

      There is nothing like the perfect time.

      It is a fallacy that has claimed more dreams than anything else.

      Start today!

      Start now!

      And change your life forever.

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      Personal Growth ·

      5 Strategies to Manage Your Time Better this Year

      How to manage your time like a pro.

      You have probably heard that time is an important and non-renewable currency.

      The Late Steve Jobs is said to have said this:

      “It’s really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time.”

      Time is a key measurement in our progress and future prospects. It speaks to the quality and quantity of things we do.

      Our ability to manage our time effectively is one of the biggest gifts we can give our present and future selves.

      Growing up, it always felt like there was never enough time in the day to do all the things I wanted to do. Of course, it took me a while to realise that the problem was not the number of hours since we all had the same number of hours and some people seemed to achieve herculean tasks.

      I knew it was more about how I used my time.

      A simple inventory of my time management showed that I spent more time on low value tasks and usually allocated little time to the more important and high value tasks. The ones that move the needle on my goals and dreams. Over time, I learnt to take better stock of my time, and I am so glad I did.

      Today, I run a business while also developing some hobbies and side opportunities. I wouldn’t have been able to do these things without getting better with my time.

      Read on if you would like to implement a better framework to manage your time.

      Five strategies to Manage Your Time this Year.

      1. Plan out your day.

        Planning is an integral part of time management. We are bound to inefficiencies and time wastes when we fail to plan out our day, week, or month.

        A good plan presents a roadmap of what we want to do and when we will do it. 

        The first thing to determine before you draw up your plan is your ‘why’. Knowing what you hope to achieve and why you want to. 

        This may seem complicated but it’s not. 

        For instance, I want to write weekly blog posts and newsletter and my why is to grow a personal development blog for women over 30.

        My plan will include the time to research posts, write the posts, and prepare my email newsletter. I will also need to put a timelines for each task.

        Your plan can be daily, weekly, or monthly. You could also have all three.

        I personally use a weekly plan, with tasks for each day of the week. This gives me a bird’s eye view of what I want to achieve in each week. 

        It’s important that you’re realistic about what you can do and ensure your plan is specific and actionable. 

        You can use a digital or paper planner for this purpose. I have used Passion Planner in the past and currently have the Living Well Planner which is great too (the living well planner also has sections for your finances, which are not available in the Passion planner).

        Remember that you can also plan out each day the night before. You can check out this post for an effective night routine that prepares you for the next day.

        2. Use Realistic Timelines. 

        Do you often find that you underestimate how much some tasks take, and overestimate others?

        For instance, I often find that I overestimate things like cooking and cleaning and underestimate how long it takes me to write or complete a project. 

        Before setting timelines, you should have a good estimate on how long such tasks are likely to take. Do a trial run of your most common tasks and time yourself, you can then use this as a benchmark for future tasks.

        But this is not all, here are a few other things to consider when setting timelines:

        • Your goals – your goals can help you determine how much time you need. For instance, a goal to write a book will require more time than a goal to write a 2,000-word article.
        • Nature of your work or projects – there are tasks that will have different components that cannot be completed in a day or week, in such cases, it makes sense to create a breakdown of these components and when you intend to work on them.
        • Your preferences – are you a big picture kind of person or prefer to focus on one day at a time? 

        3. Prioritise Your Tasks.

        “Never leave ‘till tomorrow which you can do today.”

        Benjamin Franklin

        It’s one thing to list out the activities you want to accomplish in a day or week, but even better if you can prioritize based on importance or time required. We can use the Eisenhower matrix, popularized by Stephen Covey in his book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

        The matrix divides our tasks into four possible boxes.

        • Tasks that are urgent and important
        • Tasks that are not urgent but important
        • Tasks that are urgent but not important
        • Tasks that are not urgent and not important

        Being able to assign our tasks into these four boxes will help us determine the things we need to work on, and perhaps tasks that we have no business with.

        4. Manage Your Attention.

        One problem our generation is facing is not a lack of time but a lack of attention as we have so many things vying for our attention. You can probably relate. 

        At any given time, there are hundreds of things we could be doing – from surfing social media channels, websites, movies, music, work, studies, and the list goes on. There’s always something else we could be doing and it’s important that we find ways to limit the distractions that drain our attention. 

        Managing your attention will help you finish tasks faster and at better quality (we are less likely to make mistakes when we are focused). Investing in the right productivity tools can also help you improve and speed up your work output.

        5. Be Self-aware – Work within Your Energy Levels.

        A few years ago, I came across the concept of energy dips, this is like the afternoon dip.

        Most of us experience a dip in our energy levels at certain times of the day. For some, this dip happens in the early to late afternoons, this is particularly heightened after lunch. I used to feel bad about my productivity at this time until I learned about the afternoon dip.

        Now, I recognise that I’m better off scheduling intellectually stimulating tasks in the morning and later in the evening, giving me time to do more administrative tasks or other activities in the afternoon.

        How about you? Have you noticed a similar dip?

        Yours could also be in the evenings. 

        Morning people often find it hard to stay productive in the evenings and the same often holds for night people in the mornings.

        One the one hand, our energy levels may very well be because of our body makeup/patterns(chronotype), while it may be for other reasons. If it’s the latter, there are some things we can do to increase and maintain our energy levels such as: 

        • Eat better – this is always a good tip. You may need to eat lighter and more nutrient dense meals. Avoid sugary or high carb meals during lunch as this may lead to blood sugar spikes and dips. 
        • Exercise – this can be as simple as going on a brisk walk in between tasks to get your blood pumping and make you feel refreshed. 
        • Change tasks – there are some tasks that are just life-sucking. Lol. You could switch to another task, if possible. 
        • Take a nap – perhaps your body just needs a quick rest to get it back in working order. 

        While some studies advocate the need to wake up very early and have a consistent and productive morning routine, some others are not as strict about wake-up times and its connection to productivity.

        In effect, it still comes down to one thing – that you find what works for you.

        Without being pedantic, I also want to remind you to never forget that your spiritual and emotional health feeds into your productivity. Feed your heart and mind with the right things and watch these bloom into a happier and more productive life. 

        Start Managing Your Time Today

        I hope you’ve found the above time management tips helpful. 

        As I mentioned in the last point, we can accomplish more than we can ever dream or imagine when we take a holistic view of our capabilities – physical, spiritual, emotional, and biological.

        Don’t try to implement all the strategies at once, start off with one or two of the strategies and add more as you get a hang of the current processes. 

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        Wellness ·

        25 things to do in 2025 for a happier and more enjoyable life

        A photo of a woman with a text title that reads 25 awesome things to do in 2025

        We start each new year with certain goals and dreams, a lot of which are quickly forgotten as the realities and challenges of the year begin.

        May be you already feel that way right now.

        Perhaps, you’re struggling to follow through on the goals and habits you planned out for 2025.

        Rather than agonizing over this, can I encourage you to pick one of these goals and just do it. Don’t just talk about what you want to do but do it. That’s how you build momentum.

        Do you need help coming up with ideas of things to do this year?

        Say no more!

        Today, I will be sharing 25 incredible ideas and activities you can take on this year. Many of them are things you can do throughout the course of the year.

        Yes, you can commit to try 2-3 things each month.

        Secondly, most of these activities will help you grow holistically (physically, mentally, spiritually, relationally, and financially).

        Many of these are simple ideas you can implement in a day or even just an afternoon, while a few will require more time and resource investment such as travel, learning something new and volunteering.

        Without further ado, here’s a list of 25 things you should try this year.

        25 Ideas to Try Out this Year

        1. Travel to a New City/State/Country

        2025 is a great time to explore new places and cultures. Take some time to think about the one place you would like to visit this year and how to make it happen.

        This is particularly important if you will be celebrating a landmark birthday are like me.

        2. Do a 24-hour Intermittent Fast.

        Okay, this seems quite hardcore, but I imagine it will be an unforgettable experience.

        You have probably heard about intermittent fasting and all its benefits. The reality is our body does its best work when it’s not overloaded with food. Trying this out will be a great way to allow your body to heal itself. For more on intermittent fasting check out this post, and of course you should do your research to ensure there are no adverse effects.

        3. Attend an Art Show.

        Attending an art show has some obvious benefits; it broadens your tastes, hopefully gets your creative juices flowing, and is an opportunity to network and socialise.

        4. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel

        Find a way to document shareable moments or things you’ve learned. It can be about your area of interest or just life’s moments (vlogs). Committing to this could also be another way to explore your creativity and earn money.

        5. Read One Book a Month and make a note of your learnings.

        Books are a treasure trove of life tips and experiences. They expand our world views and enrich our lives. I know that committing to reading regularly will have a profound effect on your character and your work ethic. A win-win.

        6. Learn to Play an Instrument

        Learn something, and why not start with a musical instrument. You get to improve your skills and also entertain yourself and others.

        7. Volunteer within Your City

        A ‘life of service is a life well lived.’

        Find opportunities to serve in your community. It could be a one-off or more structured service. You decide.

        8. Start a Pet Project

        We all have goals and dreams, and for some of us, there is often that big, scary goal we have been meaning to do.

        What is yours?

        Perhaps, 2025 is the year to finally give it your all.

        9. Go offline for 48hours/Take Monthly Retreats

        Ah! You’re probably shaking your head at this one, but I promise the world will not come to an end when you turn off your electronic devices. Monthly retreats will provide an opportunity for you to detach and rest. It can be for a day or a few days.

         These retreats give us a chance to reflect, re-strategize, and rejuvenate.

        You can start with a 24-hour social media detox and take it up from there.

        10. Write a Thank You Note to 5 people who have Impacted Your Life.

        I always say gratitude makes room for growth.

        Our ability to remember and express our thanks deepens our humility and our graciousness. Write that note and you will be surprised by what it will do for you and for the people who receive them.

        11. Buy an Unexpected Gift for a Family Member

        Show some love. Don’t just say it but do it!

        It could be something small (like their favourite meal), or something bigger, like a trip to go watch their favourite band perform.

        12. Offer to Babysit for a Friend or a Loved One with Kids.

        Be available to those who may need your help. You can choose to do this occasionally or have a standard arrangement with them.

        13. Read an Autobiography of Someone in Your Area of Interest.

        Reading is one of the most important practices for our generation. You can tell I love reading as this is the second time it’s showing up on this list.

        Reading about a person’s life can give you insights into their motivations and decision making, something I believe to be invaluable.

        These days, we have audio options in addition to the books. So, find something by an author in your area of interest. It will shed new light on how they got to where they are.

        14. Go Hiking

        Hiking may seem like a weird option, but it gives you a chance to explore and see things from an elevated angle (this can improve your appreciation and perception of the world). For those in Nigeria, there are quite a few hiking spots in southern and Northern Nigeria.

        15. Try out a New Sport

        Do something different. Trying out a new sport is a good way to socialise and get your body in shape. Who knows, you may enjoy it so much that it becomes a part of your routine.

        16. Go on a Solo Movie and Dinner Date.

        Take time to enjoy your own company.

        Consider self-date ideas you can try out. As the name suggests, these dates will give you chance to get to know yourself better. Look for places you can go to and spend quality time with yourself. I recently started a bi-weekly Friday lunch self-date and it’s been amazing.

        17. Buy Yourself a Special and Memorable Gift.

        Terms: it should be within budget, pretty, and something you can have or use for more than a year.

        18. Start Journaling.

        Document your life and experiences. I have been journaling since 2019, and it is still one of my best decisions till date. It is a game changer. I share more here.

        19. Pay for Someone’s Meal

        This is a simple act of kindness that can go a long way, especially if it’s for a stranger. You will certainly make their day, and they are more likely to pay it forward. Be kind always.

        20. Visit an Orphanage and or Senior home.

        Spend some time with people who may not always have someone. You would be surprised what a difference it will make to your life and theirs.

        21. Offer to Run Errands for Someone who is Swamped.

        Be that friend in deed. We all have moments where we are juggling conflicting tasks and having someone offer to help can be a godsend. Be that for someone.

        22. Learn to Cook a Signature dish.

        It doesn’t have to be anything complicated, find a dish you like and learn how to make it – or all the different ways to make it.

        23. Host a Sleepover

        Be intentional about your friendships this year.

        A sleepover gives you a chance to spend an extended amount of time with those who matter to you. Eat, talk, dance, play…do all the things that make your soul happy.

        24. Learn a New Language

        Communication is one of the most important skills for growth and advancement. More so, being able to speak other languages helps you connect with more people and understand life from their perspective.

        Perhaps this is the year you finally learn French (I plan to this year.)

        25. Create a Life Vision

        What are those things you believe about yourself that have fuelled your choices and decisions? Do you have this clearly articulated?

        If not, then you should take some time to craft a life vision for yourself. You may think it is superfluous but as someone who created one recently, I believe it is anything but. A life vision provides a snapshot of the things you value and believe, which improves your decision making. When we know who we are and what we want, we can use this to filter opportunities that come our way.

        Start today

        That’s it! 25 awesome things that will add some spice, context, and meaning to your year. Hope you enjoyed the list. Are there other things you are looking to do?

        Please share in the comments.

        I also hope to create these annual lists going forward.

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        Personal Growth ·

        10 Things to do When You can’t Focus.

        Lady on a picnic blanket reading a book with a text title of 10 others things to do when you can't focus.

        Are you distracted? Here are 10 quick things to do when you can’t focus

        Have you ever had moments where you were so distracted that nothing got done?

        Perhaps, these were moments where you were struggling to focus on work, staring blindly at the blinking cursor on your laptop, yet unable to do anything. 

        You may have even succumbed to the shiny pull of social media or games on your phone.

        I know I have, and it wasn’t great.

        I would usually be overcome with guilt. Guilt over wasted time and wasted opportunity. Not because these activities were inherently bad but because they were not the things I wanted to do.

        Have you ever experienced this?

        If you have, then you probably want to do better.

        One of the realities of today’s world is that we are suffering from an attention epidemic. It’s becoming harder to spend meaningful time on the things that matter.

        Of course, there are different reasons for this – some argue that information overload is the cause. Others believe that our fear of missing out has us constantly thinking of other things when we are working, making focus impossible.

        Rather than getting bogged down with the reasons why, here are 10 things you can do to limit distractions and increase your focus.

        10 Crazy Effective Ideas for when You can’t Focus

        The next time you’re struggling with work and can’t seem to move past the first page of that report you’re writing, here are some things to do:

        1. Take a Break.

        Take a few minutes to just be. You can use this time for some deep breathing exercises to help you stay centered; check your thought process. This can also help you become more self aware.

        Use this time to declutter your mind.

        For example, you can do a brain dump – write out all the things on your mind. Getting them out of your head can make room for you to focus on work.

        2. Take a Walk

        Get up and move around.

        Walking provides an opportunity for your mind to process things, while also getting some exercise in.

        3. Prayer & Meditation

        “Pray without ceasing.”

        1 Thessalonians 5:17

        From experience, praying has been an effective remedy against a distracted mind. To turbocharge your time, you can go on a prayer walk (this is one of my favorite things).

        4. Nap

        In our forever ‘on’ world, there are times when all we need is a few minutes of some shut-eye to rejuvenate our minds and bodies. Listen to your body, a sleep-deprived person will always struggle with focus.

        5. Connect with Others

        This is a good time to call or reach out to your friends and family. Organize meet-ups or take up other bonding activities.

        6. Exercise

        Move your body. Exercise. This will not only improve your mood but also your health and appearance. A quick 10-minute workout can help stave off lethargy and tiredness.

        Perhaps this is a great time to try out that online pilates class or HIIT drill.

        7. Run errands.

        A lack of focus on your work can present an opportunity to run any important/urgent errands.

        Okay, I know that there are times when running errands is the worst use of our time. But this depends, do those you can and delegate the rest.

        8. Review Your Plans and Progress

        Many times, a distracted mind is a mind without a plan.

        Planning helps guide our actions; it gives us a blueprint of what we should be doing. A good plan also helps us prioritize our tasks or activities.

        9. Play

        When was the last time you jumped around or you laughed so hard a little pee came out?

        There is this foolhardy argument that the older we get the more serious we should be. I don’t know where we got that.

        Playing is a big part of retaining our zest for life. It increases our feel-good hormones and this can improve our attitude and energy levels.

        We need to make time for fun activities. Making time to have fun should be an intentional part of growing up and not something to be ashamed of.

        10. Dream

        You’re probably wondering what this is doing on the list.

        Let me explain – I have found that when I actively daydream, basically steer the course of the dream to the goals and plans I have, this often motivates me to work on them.

        It acts as a rudder leading me back to land/reality. Try it and see how it goes.

        Be Jealous with Your Time.

        I follow quite a few productivity gurus on SM, and one thing they all seem to agree on is how we use the little moments.

        Here’s why: an innocent scroll through SM or a quick Google search can easily turn into many hours lost doing what does not move your life forward.

        Yes, we need to chill sometimes, and I agree. This was why I advocated for play and naps. The difference is that you intentionally take up these activities rather than a passive transition into potentially regressive activities.

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        Wellness ·

        25 Self-Care Quotes to Live a Better Life

        Quotes are one of the best ways to transmit an idea or perspective to life.

        I particularly think that reading inspiring and motivational quotes on a regular basis can have a positive effect on our outlook on life, while also promoting better living. These short, deep and meaningful quotes gives us that fresh fire of motivation to get us going.

        Recently, I shared 20 life quotes to inspire us to live with meaning (which has become one of my most popular blog posts), and I also shared 30 personal finance quotes that foster better financial health.

        Today, I will be delving into something deeper; Quotes that promote better self-care and self-love.

        Why are Self-Care Quotes Important?

        Self-care quotes are a collection of ideas and powerful messages that remind us to invest in our growth and well-being.

        These quotes also highlight important routines and practices we can adopt to improve our health, alleviate stress, and create a happier and more fulfilling life.

        They generally make us feel better about ourselves, which is an incredible plus. Here are 25 amazing self-care quotes that will inspire you to live a better life.

        25 Quotes that promote Better Self-Care Practices.

        These self-care quotes have been divided into four categories: Quotes about kindness; quotes about acceptance; quotes about keeping healthy boundaries; and quotes about self-love.

        I pray they ignite a deeper desire within you to take better care of yourself.

        Self-Care Quotes about Kindness

        1 “When we give ourselves compassion, we are opening our hearts in a way that can transform our lives.”

        Kristin Neff

        2. “When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life.”

        Jean Shinoda Bolen

        3. “Of all the judgements we pass in life, none is more important than the judgement we pass on ourselves.”

        Nathaniel Branden

        4. “Self-compassion is simply giving the same kindness to ourselves that we would give to others.”

        Christopher Germer

        5. “The most powerful relationship you will ever have is the relationship with yourself.”

        Diane Von Furstenberg

        Self-Care Quotes about Acceptance

        6. “The thing that is really hard, and really amazing, s giving up on being perfect and beginning the work of becoming yourself.”

        Anna Quindlen

        7. “Accept yourself, love yourself, and keep moving forward. If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down.”

        Roy T. Bennett

        8. “Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender; it’s holy ground. There’s no greater investment.”

        Stephen Covey

        9. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful. I know that full well.”

        Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

        10. “Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim.”

        Nora Ephron

        11. “Go boldly in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you imagined.”

        Unknown

        Self-Care Quotes about Building Healthy Boundaries

        12. “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”

        Anne Lamott

        13. “Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious. You get to choose how you use it. You teach people how to treat you by deciding what you will and won’t accept.”

        Anna Taylor

        14. “Knowing how to be solitary is central to the art of loving. When we can be alone, we can be with others without using them as a means of escape.”

        Bell Hooks

        15. “As important as it is to have a plan for doing work, it is perhaps more important to have a plan for rest, relaxation, self-care, and sleep.”

        Akiroq Brost

        16. “Keep good company, read good books, love good things, and cultivate soul and body as faithfully as you can.”

        Louisa May Alcott

        17. “If you want to live an authentic, meaningful life, you need to master the art of disappointing and upsetting others, hurting feelings, and living with the reality that some people just won’t like you. It may not be easy, but it’s essential if you want your life to reflect your deepest desires, values, and needs.”

        Cheryl Richardson

        18. “Women need solitude in order to find again the true essence of themselves.”

        Anne Morrow Lindbergh

        19. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

        Proverbs 4:23(NIV)

        Self-care quote from Wayne Dyer

        Self-Care Quotes about Self-Love

        20. “If you don’t love yourself, nobody will. Not only that, you won’t be good at loving anyone else. Loving starts with the self.”

        Wayne Dyer

        21. “It’s all about falling in love with yourself and sharing that love with someone who appreciates you, rather than looking for love to compensate for a self-love deficit.”

        Eartha Kitt

        22. “Forgiveness isn’t just the absence of anger. I think it’s also the presence of self-love, when you actually begin to value yourself.”

        Tara Westover

        23. “This revolutionary act of treating ourselves tenderly can begin to undo the aversive messages of a lifetime.”

        Tara Brach

        24. “By making time for self-care, you prepare yourself to be your best so you can share your gifts with the world. Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. Self-care isn’t selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”

        Eleanor Brown

        25. “Nourishing yourself in a way that helps you blossom in the direction you want to go is attainable, and you are worth the effort.”

        Deborah Day

        a photo with a self-care quote for women by Nora Ephron

        The Transforming Power of Self-Care

        For more self-care routines and ideas:

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        Personal Finance ·

        Five Barriers to Earning Money + How to Avoid Them

        One thing that constantly breaks my heart is meeting women who have given up on their dreams.

        Women who have stopped trying to create the life they have always wanted.

        If you asked them, they would probably say they haven’t given up, but their actions say otherwise, and one question that I often ask myself is this:

        Why do we say we want something yet do nothing to actualise these dreams?

        I know this is easier said than done. After all, I too had many dreams I ignored for years.

        At any given time, there are different challenges we are navigating, and these realities may affect our ability to explore or even take advantage of the opportunities around us.

        Is this the case for you?

        Do you dream of building multiple income streams and investing in your future, but you often struggle to follow through?

        Here’s the thing: Time is not static, it won’t wait for us to get our self together, neither is there such a thing as a perfect time.

        “Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of standing still”.

        Chinese Proverb

        The above quote is a reminder that it is better to start slowly than not to start at all. If you are currently struggling to start and accomplish your dreams of earning more money and doing more things, then check out these five barriers blocking your income growth and what you can do to stop them.

        Image with text overlay that reads five barriers to earning more money

        Five Barriers to Earning More Money

        Learn these five obstacles that are creating a roadblock to more income and wealth. While this is not an exhaustive list, it provides a list of important points you should not ignore.

        1. You are more Problem-focused than Opportunity-focused.

        One barrier is that we spend more time obsessing over our challenges and fail to consider opportunities within such problems.

        Did you know that some of the incredible inventions we know and love today were borne out of people looking for a way to solve a niggling problem?

        The Apple Computer was borne out of a desire to make computers smaller and more accessible to people.

        I recently heard a phrase that has stayed with me:

        “What you focus on expands”.

        We need to move from being problem obsessed to solution obsessed. This mindset shift also opens us up to taking advantage of available opportunities.

        Start where you are with what you have. The little drops can make an ocean.

        “Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises.”

        Demosthenes

        One of such opportunities is increasing our earning potential at work. Instead of complaining that you are not paid enough. Do something about it!

        Consider ways to tweak your job description to a role that suits your skills and temperament. Analyse areas where you can add greater value to the organisation and use these to ask for a raise or promotion.

        You could also consider taking on an additional role or looking for another job.

        2. Not Finding the Right Idea

        Do you have difficulty coming up with business ideas or are you overflowing with many ideas?

        We usually fall into either one of these categories.

        I have had periods when I couldn’t come up with a single idea, at other times, I seem to be full of it. Even though a few of these were dodgy (they honestly were ).

        Beyond finding the right idea, it is also important to validate it. Basically, you need to confirm if there is any value to the world (or your target market in providing the product and service) and will they pay for it.

        3. Failing to be Persistent

        It is much easier to give up than to stay the course. It is quicker to avoid things that are difficult or problematic.

        Merriam Webster dictionary defines persistence as the ‘quality that allows someone to continue to do something or trying to do something even though it is difficult or opposed by other people.’

        This suggests doing something for a longer period than what is considered normal. Are you still trying to work on your business, relationships, or even your life until you see the change you desire?

        Or are you more likely to give up after a while and move to other things?

        This may be one time to consider if you need to keep pushing. In order to persist effectively, you also have to be fluid and able to make any tweaks or changes required to pursue your business interests and side hustle.  

        4. Limiting Beliefs

        Sometimes our dreams are so lofty that they scare us and stop us from taking action. We may worry that we will fail or that we do not have what it takes to succeed.

        Our limiting beliefs may also come in terms of time (we are too old or don’t have the time to achieve our dreams).

        I can totally relate to this.

        One way to tackle these limiting beliefs is to realise that they are a normal part of pursuing something meaningful.

        More so, how we choose to address these limiting beliefs will have a profound effect on our growth and success.

        Here another way to look at it:

        “The only thing standing between you and your goals is the story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.”

        Jordan Belfort

        This is a powerful reminder we need to adopt in our daily living. This is because we are often the biggest obstacle to our wealth and happiness.

        Why?

        The story we tell ourselves about our life and capabilities often has a bigger influence on our choices than anything else.

        If we believe we are not good enough or don’t have what it takes, it is unlikely that we will persist or put our all into any venture or project. There will always be that thought at the back of our minds that it will fall apart.

        If you have ever felt this way, I hope you take some time to renew your mindset. This might mean speaking to someone like a therapist or counsellor, but more so, it will require an intentional reframing of your story.

        Here’s a great resource on how to stop self-sabotage from Very Will Mind. I hope you find it helpful.

        5. The Fear of Success

        Are we all agreed that we humans are complex?

        It is one thing to be afraid to fail and quite another to fear success.

        It is indeed a paradox that the very thing we want in life, which is to succeed, becomes a source of fear and anxiety. Would this mean that subconsciously we really don’t want it or is it more about the things that are attached to success?

        We may feel the cost of success is too high. You can often see this with celebrities and influencers. The very thing they wished for; ‘fame and wealth’ also comes with its hidden costs, one of which is living in the public.

        However, you have the right to define what success means for you and not pander to society’s standards. It doesn’t have to be monetary or popular but could be in the little things.

        How about you choose to celebrate the small and big wins without fear.

        Closing thoughts – You Can Build Your Wealth Tunnel

        The road to financial freedom is filled with diversions, speed bumps and in some cases death-traps but this doesn’t mean it is not achievable. It is only sweeter when you can surmount these barriers and achieve your dreams.

        Here is to you…all the best, Sailor!

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        Personal Finance, Wellness ·

        Five Reasons Meal Planning is great for Your Health and Finances.

        One of the fastest ways to save money on food is through meal planning.

        I have experienced this time and again, and I have read countless stories of women who finally improved their food budget when they started meal planning.

        In addition, meal planning is also great for our health as we are in better control of not just the ingredients but the way the food is prepared.

        But then again, it is one thing to know this and quite another to put into practice.

        It’s easy to say we want to improve our habits and live a better life, but until we act, this will remain an unrealised dream.

        As we grow older and come to terms with how transient life is, one important area we need to tackle is what we eat.

        And in a world where it seems like 24hours are hardly ever enough, meal planning gives you one less thing to worry about.

        I remember the first time I meal planned for a whole month, I couldn’t believe the difference it made to my mind (less hassled about what to eat), my time, and my resources.

        However, it does require some upfront work and I think this is the reason most of us avoid it. 😅

        But imagine spending 30mins to an hour on something that will save you hours more later?

        How does Meal Planning Work?

        As the name suggests, it’s about setting out a schedule on a weekly or monthly basis highlighting the foods you want to eat and when you want to have them.

        There are a few fundamentals of an effective meal plan:

        1. Your budget

          Do you have a weekly or monthly food budget. If you don’t have one then consider what will work for the first month and use that as a guide going forward. Your budget will advise the kinds of foods to go for. perhaps you’re better off with staples(rice, beans and rather than the exotics (quinoa, etc).

          2. You and Your Family’s Preferences

          A meal plan is not a prison sentence. You still get to go for things you like. Make room for your preferences but opt for healthier and more affordable versions.

          3. Your energy/ability to source the items.

          Plan for the foods you have the energy to purchase and prepare. That food influencer and chef you follow on social media are paid to prepare fancy and complicated meals, avoid them for your peace and sanity. Simple and consistent ideas often work best.

          4. Your shopping lists.

          Your meal plan is incomplete without a shopping list. Having a shopping list keeps you grounded and focused when you go grocery shopping.

          Know Your Limits with Meal Planning

          I’ve realised that it’s easy for us to get ambitious when starting something new. As women over 30, there is often a sense of urgency when we want to see change, but it’s easy to burnout if it’s not done well.

          Like those who sign up to outrageous diets and fitness plans they do for a week and then abandon.

          Let’s not do that here. 😊

          The key to an effective meal plan is to simplify. Keep it simple and make it easy to follow.

          For your first meal plan, go with easy to make meals and things you (and your family) like. This will encourage you to keep going.

          Another tip is to go for consistency.

          Unless you are adamant about variety, I would suggest you eat a couple of the same meals per week. For instance, I eat the same breakfast 5 times a week. This has made my life and food choices much simpler.

          It also allows you to batch make your meals and saves you time and energy.

          Five Reasons Why You should Meal Plan

          1. You plan for the things you need and avoid waste.

            Meal planning limits the possibility of waste since you are following a tailored plan in the foods you select and prepare, unlike someone who just to the grocery shop to buy foods without a clear idea of when or how they will be cooked.

            Less wasted food means more money in your pocket, and of course, it is much better on your conscience.

            2. It helps you make healthier choices.

            Since you’re in control of the meal selection and preparation process, it is much easier to avoid additives or unhealthy food options.

            3. You avoid the tendency to just buy what you want rather than what you need.

            A meal plan provides much needed direction when we are making our food and meal choices. This becomes important when we are grocery shopping. You will probably find things you want but having a meal plan and stick to your assigned grocery list will limit these impulse purchases.

            4. You are more likely to buy and cook things that are in season.

            One great thing about good meal plans is that they teach you to shop foods in the right seasons. You get to learn what’s available when and can adjust your plan to suit this.
            This is also important because foods in their seasons are usually fresher and much cheaper than when they are out of season.

            5. You manage your time and effort better.

            This is probably the biggest reason to meal plan. One of the constant and annoying decisions we all deal with every day is to figure out what to eat.

            Meal planning has helped me overcome this common challenge. The interesting thing is that anytime I stop using a meal plan, the ‘what do I eat today?’ frustrations resume.

            Example of a meal plan

            If you need budget friendly options, then you should check out the $5 meal plan by Erin. She shares great ideas for cheap and easy dinner ideas.

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            Career Transitions ·

            3 Myths about Changing Your Career Later in Life.

            Have you ever considered switching careers?

            Perhaps, you had a dream to work in a particular industry or to start your own business but you’re wondering if you’re too old to start and if it will ever be successful.

            Well, I have some good news.

            I am here to debunk many of the myths and stereotypes that are holding us back from truly living our lives.

            Lessons from Martha Stewart

            Love her or hate her, one thing we cannot deny is that Martha Stewart is a woman who has defied many odds. She has broken stereotypes and myths about changing careers and starting businesses later in life.

            She switched careers a few times.

            She worked as a stockbroker in her early 30’s, at 35 she started a small catering business, and it was this business that presented a book deal opportunity in her 40’s, and the rest as they say, is history. Even after her stint in jail in 2004, she went on to build a billion-dollar empire.

            Her life exemplifies what is possible when you do not allow other people dictate how we live our lives or what is “appropriate” for us.

            While this post is not about Martha, I believe her story is inspiring and is a reminder to never give up on our dreams.

            The world (your family, friends, colleagues, and society) may seek to define you or pigeonhole you, but it is up to you to decide who you want to be and what you want to do.

            Why does this matter?

            The danger of these myths is that they have fuelled our fears. They have created these negative assumptions about trying to do something new, and they have ultimately stopped many of us from taking these bold steps later in life.

            If you have ever considered a new career, going back to school, or just trying something new, then keep reading.

            3 Myths about Starting a New Career in Your 30’s and 40’s Debunked.

            Myth 1: It’s too late to change.

            One of the biggest myths about switching careers in our 30’s is that it is too late to do so. We are told that our 20’s are for experimenting, and our 30’s and 40’s are a time to build on the result of our experiments.

            While I can see the logic to this, I also believe that we all have different paths, and humans are too multi-faceted and multi-talented to be restricted in this manner.

            More so, some of us only come into our own later in life – in essence, we learn more about ourselves – what moves us and the things we love — as we grow older.

            Which means we can come up with life-changing ideas later in life.

            Myth 2: I will have to start from the beginning.

            “No knowledge is lost, every knowledge has a principle, a lesson that becomes a gem when applied. Find the principle, then apply the knowledge.”

            CIO

            The above quote is such a powerful reminder for every woman who has ever bought the idea that switching careers means starting from the beginning.

            I’m here to tell you that you never start from the beginning.

            You may know a bit of my story, but the gist is that I have a legal and policy background, and rather than continuing my work as a lawyer, I chose to start a business as a health and Safety Consultant.

            Now, it may seem like a nonsensical move but there were a few things that led to the switch.

            I do recall that one of my major concerns was that I had no prior experience in the health and safety space, which meant I would have to start from the beginning.

            Thankfully, I learnt that this would not be the case.  

            As a lawyer and policy advocate, I am interested in facts and gathering data to better understand behaviours, this perspective and interest is one of the things that has set my business apart and makes us unique. Even while I was getting my HSE certifications, my legal background helped me drill into the reasons for certain safety rules and regulations.

            Never downplay your previous experience.

            Even if you were a stay-at-home mum before going back into the job market, you can bring your skills in organisation and coordinating your home to any job or tasks you do.

            Myth 3: Starting later in life means I may never get to the top.

            I have spoken to a few women who have shared this fear with me.

            They believe that switching careers in their mid-30’s will make it almost impossible to have a successful career in their new field.

            For them, they are considering the sunk cost from all they achieved in their previous career. And I do understand this. If you gave almost a decade of your life to a job, career or industry, where you rose through the ranks; starting out again may feel like a waste of all that effort and time.

            But one thing we must never forget is that “staying at the top of the wrong ladder is much worse that being at the bottom of the right one.”

            In her book “Top 5 Regrets of the Dying”, author Bronnie Ware shared that one of the biggest regrets of the dying was:

            “I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.”

            With benefit of hindsight, people often bemoan the dreams they failed to pursue out of a fear of failure or what people think.

            I pray we never have this regret.

            Remember what I said in Myth 2; Starting a new career later in life means you’re coming in with some previous experience and perspective, you are hopefully older and wiser, with more value to contribute, which means growing in your new career will take a much shorter time.

            More so, your willingness to learn, innovate, and implement new ways of doing things is what will take you the farthest.

            Your Dream Life Starts Here

            Are you ready to take steps towards achieving the dreams and goals for your life?

            Do you believe you will need some support through this process? I recommend that you tell a trusted friend or partner and ask them to hold you accountable.

            However, if you don’t have anyone available or you need more structure and support, then you can join “My Dream Life Accountability Program” coming up soon.

            Join the Waitlist here.

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            Personal Finance ·

            7 Common Income Streams of Successful Women

            One key aspect of building a successful life is good financial management. This includes curbing excesses and creating new and lasting income sources.

            This is so whether you’re just getting started on your wealth journey or you’re a seasoned investor in the millionaire category.

            This means building multiple ways to earn money is an important trait of a successful life.

            But here’s the interesting thing: most successful people started with one or two income streams, and as their income and influence grew, they diversified and built other wealth streams.

            What is an income stream?

            An income stream is a source or channel through which money is earned. The use of “stream” means it is not one-off earning opportunity but a continuous channel of receiving money in exchange for the provision of some value at a former, present, or later date.

            Why should you build multiple streams of income?

            There are two main benefits of having multiple streams of income:

            1. Financial Security

            Having multiple sources of income provides a level of financial security and buffer in the event one stream of income dries up.

            A good example was what happened during the COVID pandemic where some people were out of work. Those who had other means of income beyond their salary were able to manage that season of their lives much better. We can create this buffer by starting and growing a side hustle.

            2. Financial Freedom

             This is an important reason to build multiple streams of income. A survey of over 1,012 employees in the workplace found that some were willing to do unfulfilling work (38%), endure high stress (24%), and defer self-employment opportunities(45%) to retain employer-sponsored health care coverage.  

            Having different sources of income gives your choices. It gives you the freedom to choose the life you want and chase the dreams that matter to you. This is a resounding reason why every single one of us must create and grow other channels of wealth.

            7 Popular Income Streams of Successful People.

            Check out this list of income sources to see which ones you already have and which ones you need to consider cultivating this year and in the future.

            1.⁠ ⁠Earned income 

            This is the most common type of income and some of us barely move past this time of income. So, earned income is income that is directly linked to time and productivity.

            It includes a salary or commission paid for the provision of services.

            2.⁠ ⁠Dividend income

            Dividend income is the income earned from stocks in companies and ventures. Dividends are derived from a portion of the profit of a company. Which means that a company must earn a profit first before it can declare a dividend.

            To get started with earning dividend income, you should consider investing in the stock market, and you should consider dividend paying stocks like Coca cola, Apple, and Bank of America (this is not financial advice). I have personally received dividend from Apple and Bank of America.

            3.⁠ ⁠Royalties

            This is a more advanced income that is often received from earnings from creative endeavours like books, music, art, etc.,

            Did you know that Michael Jackson’s estate still receives millions of dollars in royalties from his music catalog? His estate was reported to have earned about $115 million in 2023, most of which was from a Broadway musical about his life.

            Many creatives – writers, artists, actresses, and many more still receive income from the sale or use of their creative works years after.

            This is one of the best sources of passive income. Why? Because it usually doesn’t require additional work from the owner after that initial time spent in producing or creating the material or art.

            4.⁠ ⁠Rental Income

            This is income received from leasing your property or equipment. Investing in rental properties is one of the best ways to ensure a steady stream of rental income from property, equipment amongst others.

            However, unlike some of the options on this list, the stream of income often requires a higher initial investment or funds to purchase or lease the property.  

            5.⁠ ⁠Profits from Business

            One of the fastest ways to build your wealth portfolio is to start or to invest in a profitable business or side gig. You have probably heard of people who started side businesses to supplement their income, and within a few short years the income from their side business surpassed their 9 to 5 job.

            For instance, Rosemary Groner starting blogging in 2014/15 and within a few years, her blog was making over $20,000 per month.

            6.⁠ ⁠Interest Income

            There are some investment options where you receive additional income from advancing money to companies, individuals, or governments. The interest that accrues is usually tied to a specific duration where longer tenure or higher amounts incur higher interest.

            Examples of this type of income are interest earned from peer-to-peer lending, corporate and government bonds, and commercial papers.

            7.⁠ ⁠Capital Gains

             Capital gains is the income received from the sale of an item at a higher rate than initial cost of purchase. For instance, if you buy a used Toyota Corolla for $7,000 and you sell it for $7,500. The $500 difference is the capital gains from the purchase.

            How many Sources of Income do You have?

            There you have it, seven incredible income streams that will bring you closer to achieving your wealth goals.

            How many of these streams of income do you currently have?

            If you would like to determine this and figure out how to increase or create new income channels, then you should get your hands on this simple and easy-to-use Streams of Income Worksheet.

            With this Worksheet, you can track your income progress, and determine the things you need to do to build new wealth paths.

            Get the Worksheet here.

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            Personal Growth ·

            Empowering Women: How to Empower Yourself Every Day

            The International Women’s Day always gives us a chance to revisit our history as women and our journey to this point. It is a time of empowering and strengthening women.

            When I read stories of women like Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Jane Austen, and even Funmilayo Ransom Kuti, I am humbled by how these courageous women went against the norm to chart a course for their lives.

            Sojourner Truth freed countless slaves and gave them dignity.

            Susan B Anthony was instrumental in women getting a chance to vote.

            Jane Austen’s masterpiece “Pride and Prejudice” continues to inspire and promote literary excellence and authorship.

            And Funmilayo Ransome Kuti’s many firsts reminded Nigerian and African women that they are worthy and can achieve what they set their minds to.

            What’s even better is that these feats paved the way for so many incredible rights and privileges you and I enjoy today.

            Imagine if they had not tried?

            Imagine if they had talked themselves out of it?

            Most of these women suffered through threats and intimidation, through poverty and extreme lack, through gender biases and restriction yet they kept going.

            They kept pushing the envelope of conventional and expected paths.

            And here we are barely living a quarter of our potential.

            What’s our excuse?

            Why Empowerment must first be Personal.

            Every year, March 8th is filled with countless empowering and positive quotes and messages about femininity and womanhood. Some real and others superficial.

            Some organisations even go as far as creating programs and awards to honour women’s achievements, and I think this is great.

            But one of the biggest things I’ve learnt as a woman in my late 30’s is that empowerment must first be personal to have any real impact.

            Until I believe, acknowledge, and live out these truths, these supposed calls to action will be of little effect.

            I may get into the usual excitement for a week or month, but soon I’m back to my own reality.

            Perhaps, you can also relate.

            There is the popular saying that “empowered women empower women”. It’s hard to give what you don’t have or haven’t experienced.

            And here’s the thing: one of the best ways to live an empowered life is to pursue our dreams. It’s to transform our lives and live out our potential.

            Anything else will never really measure up.

            Why Your Dreams can no longer be Deferred.

            For many of us, the joy and fulfilment that often eludes us is on the other side of pursuing our dreams.

            And this is not just about achieving a bunch of things but also about the journey.

            The journey is what shapes and refine us.

            It is what builds up our character and capability, so that when we finally achieve that dream or goal, we have the capacity to sustain it.

            Perhaps, your dream is to write a book.

            This will likely require you create a schedule or pockets of time to write. This simple act will push you to learn time management skills and how to work under pressure. The same goes for other projects including starting a side business, learning a new skill, or going back to school.

            Do you know something else?

            There are generations of women (and men) who are waiting on you to do what you were created to do.

            Generations waiting on you to live your life boldly.

            The Late Dr Myles Munroe once said that the richest place on earth was the cemetery.

            Why?

            Because this is the place with the largest deposit of unrealised dreams.

            In an earlier post, I mentioned that the biggest regret people often have on their death bed is of not ‘…living a life true to themselves.’

            Here’s a quote that captures this perfectly:

            “Never underestimate the power of living a life of authenticity and integrity. The courage to live your life can be the very motivation the next person needs. “

            Chioma Oparadike

            Your courage to pursue your dream is the very thing that will inspire that young woman who looks up to you to pursue hers.

            Perhaps you feel that’s a lot of pressure and responsibility, but that would be you focusing on the wrong thing.

            The young girl is first you.

            Do you think your younger self would be proud to see what you’ve done with your life?

            Would she think you have maximised the resources and skills God blessed you with?

            If I’m being honest, I don’t even think my younger self would be happy with me.

            And this is one of the things that spurs me on to do more.

            Not just to rack up a number of achievements and awards ( though that will be nice too, if you’re sharing any), but to fully live a life that is true and authentic. A life with little regrets and many courageous feats.

            Empowerment is a Daily Practice

            True empowerment cannot be a one-off activity. It cannot be something you remember every March 8th.

            It must be a daily practice of instilling the right habits and actions to achieve your desired outcome.

            Here are a few things you can start doing today:

            1. Have a list of your main goals (no more than 5). Create your biggest goals. You can use the Inverse Goal Setting Method.
            2. Write out at least 3 things you need to do to achieve each one. Read this out every day. This acts as a powerful reminder and forces your mind to think up ways to achieve them. I call this the Daily Declarations
            3. Keep a gratitude journal. Journaling helps you process your thoughts and gratitude journaling helps you highlight the amazing things that happen each day. This also builds a positive mindset and makes room for creativity and joy.
            4. Get Accountability – reach out to a trusted friend or partner or get professional accountability. This is often the missing piece for most of us.

            Your Dream Life starts Now.

            Are you ready to implement a simple yet powerful strategy to achieve your dreams?

            Do you need help in creating your Daily Declarations and need support and accountability?

            Then you should sign up to join “My Dream Life Accountability Program”. I will send you details when the program opens.

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            Personal Growth ·

            10 Tiny Daily Habits for a Better & Happier Life

            There are certain small things that compound over time.

            Just the other day, I watched a Youtube video that captured this perfectly.

            The creator showed how the way we wake up can affect the flow of the rest of our day. In one scene she got right out bed when her alarm went off, and got started with her day, while in the other, she snoozed and stayed in bed scrolling through social media.

            I believe her video captured the power of doing small, yet meaningful habits consistently.

            You can watch the video here.

            And in this post, I will be sharing 10 simple strategies and ideas that will help you transform your life.

            This post may contain affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase a product or service we recommend through our links. You can read our full disclosure policy here. 

            10 Small Daily Practices You should Incorporate into Your Life.

            1. Rest before Major Tasks.

            The idea here is that the quality and quantity of our work tends to be better when we are well rested.

            Being well rested before you take on major or important tasks means you are better able to work from a place of clarity, insight, and serenity.

            This is one of the reasons why I recommend naps, even at work. This is a standing policy in my business. I would rather you take a 30-minute nap before you send me a report, then you trying to work on it when you’re tired or distracted.

            You are more likely to be well rested and calmer first thing in the morning before the demands of the day arise. This may be why productivity gurus suggested people tackle their biggest tasks first thing in their workday (while our energy levels and attention are still high).

            2. Use a Timer to Build Focus.

            One of the most expensive currencies in this century is our attention. Focus is our way of buying it back, but it is no easy feat.

            Using a timer can provide guided structure while working.

            Right now, I am using a timer to write this post.

            I have set it to 25-minute intervals. I have found that doing this for short periods of time helps me pull back from all the other things vying for my attention.

            I know that once that ping goes off, I can go on to do something else or continue, so that expected freedom, makes this temporary restriction necessary.

            If you struggle with distraction and procrastination, then using a timer may be the way to go. The Pomodoro method is a popular technique.


             

            3. Walk for at least 30 mins to Inspire Ideas.

            If you think I talk about walking in every productivity post I write, you will be right. I believe walking is one of the most beneficial practices of the human body. It has a myriad of benefits, and even beyond the usual health benefits, research shows that walking invigorates our minds and improves our creativity.

            Did you know that Charles Dickens created some of his most memorable and beloved characters while walking? He was said to walk up to 30 miles on some days. Yes, you read right. To put this into perspective, the Boston marathon is 26 miles, 385 yards.

            4. Read out Your Sentences before You hit Send.

            I know a few writers who stand by this. Here’s the thing: our minds can often play tricks on by us adding words that are not there or making sense of something that makes no sense. To combat this, especially is if it is an importance piece of information, read out the words. Take it slowly and make sure you are loud enough.

            This allows you the check the flow, identify any missing words or punctuation errors, and of course, make your writing much better.

            5. Carry an Idea Book.

            Ideas have been known to come of their own accord and they usually come in the at the most unusual times. Carrying an idea book can be the difference between documenting the next big idea or beating yourself up for missing out on the next Facebook (just kidding).

            Yet again, the principle here is to find the best way to capture your ideas. It does not need to be a physical book; you can record it on your phone (I use the Notes app on my iPhone) or some other device. Avoid relying on your memory.

            You’re human and fallible.

            6. Test out your Big Idea with a trusted friend or mentor before you publish.

            You want to speak to someone who is likely to be objective but also kind. You want someone who can provide constructive criticism, not someone who will tear you down or given you exaggerated praise, both of which can be harmful.

            7. Tidy Your Corner.  

            I recently learnt about the Law of Entropy and how it affects us in the real world. This law says things move from order to disorder (or chaos) without any intervention.

            In essence, for order to reign we must live with intention. Your desk and bed will not automatically get tidy, decluttering and tidying your environment, even if for a few moments can have a positive impact on your mood and emotions, which can in turn fuel your productivity.

            8. Drink Loads of Water.

            You’re probably not drinking as much water as you should. Need some help?

            Get a measuring water bottle like this.

            Use your phone timer and set hourly intervals that remind you to drink water.

            At the end of the day, you can track how much water you consumed that day. Try this for a few days and see how you do.

            Remember that staying hydrated can increase your clarity and by extension, your productivity.

            9. Floss after each Meal

            I wore braces as an adult, and I must say that one of the practices that has stayed with me all these years has been the practice of flossing after most meals. It reduces the risk of infection, discomfort, and mouth odour, all of which can affect your life and productivity.

            These are great reasons to imbibe better oral care.

            10. Eat at least one fruit and two veggies a day.

            There are several studies which show a link between what we eat and our productivity.  What we eat and when we eat it can affect our bodies natural rhythm (circadian rhythm). The wrong foods eaten at the wrong times can slow us down, deplete our energy levels, and leave us feeling tired and lethargic.

            Incorporating healthy food options can improve our alertness and energy levels.

            GET YOUR FREE TINY HABITS CHECKLIST

            Do you need a way to track these 10 daily habits?

            Then get our Tiny Habits Checklist here. You can print off a few copies of this sheet and tick whichever task you complete.

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