Lifestyle

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Our Awesome Vacation To Beautiful Gulf Shores

Summer 2020 has been nothing like I envisioned it to be. An eventful, sunny season is ultimately my favorite time of year and honestly all that I’d hope it to be. Due to the ongoing and everlasting pandemic, COVID-19 has gotten in the way of many things. I miss vacations! I miss itineraries and sizable events/ activities. Will traveling ever go back to being what we knew it to be? I decided to find out with a quick getaway trip to Gulf Shores.

I am optimistic that we will be able to take trips like we used to, but in the meantime, I’d like to be creative and find a way to just… getaway. If not only but for a short and sweet moment, wouldn’t that be nice? July is a significant month for me and represents a time of love, joy, and happiness. For starters, it is my birth month & a host of other family and friends!

Planning for our trip to Gulf Shores

It’s also the month that my husband and I wed. July 2020 will always be significant, marking five years of marriage! Could you imagine being equally excited to celebrate an occasion such as this but weary about how to even approach the planning for it? To be truthful, we’d almost given up on planning anything. What was there to do? What was SAFE to do?

There may not be much to do, but there was one thing that we knew to do: we had to get away. Our research on VRBO led us to condo rentals that wouldn’t be too far from home in Gulf Shores, Alabama. We have vacationed there a couple of times before and have always managed to have a great time. We hadn’t heard of any surge of COVID-19 cases there, and the rental properties seemed to have accommodations, rules, and guidelines due to the current pandemic that we could comply with. I started to become intrigued by the possibilities of being able to escape my bedroom, office, and living room spaces.

Disclaimer: Heads up! My posts contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but I’ll get a small commission, which helps keep the lights on. Thanks!

See Related: Romantic Ideas for Date Night this Valentine’s Day

Gulf Shores Lodging: Young’s Suncoast Rentals

Young’s Suncoast Condo Rentals
We found a beautiful one-bedroom condo within minutes from the Gulf Shores beach. Young’s Suncoast has several properties within the area (Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan). The One Club condo property offered us many amenities, a few that we could take advantage of such as a restaurant and bar that delivered, a 24/7 Fitness Center, and private cabanas. Check out pictures from the Young’s Suncoast website for pictures of vacation rental properties. I decided to decorate our condo on arrival day with themed balloon colors and anniversary keepsakes. Everything turned out flawlessly and set the tone for a weekend full of love, happiness, and relaxation.

White, Gold, Teal Balloons
Gold Backdrop
Feathers

Gulf Shores Beaches & Food

Beach Bums & Sandcastles
Public beaches are open if you’re in or near Alabama! It’s dead in the middle of Summer and thanks to COVID, my family and I haven’t had any family fun at the beach. We were able to find a spot on the beach, at a safe distance from everyone else, and hang out for the day. It was nice to watch the waves (which were high that day) and layout in the sun. I walked the shore for a bit before building sandcastles with my husband and son.

Eat and Merry
Normally when I travel, I like to dine in at restaurants that I’ve never experienced. I truly miss life pre-COVID. We worked around restaurant closures and limited menus the best that we could and honestly owe Door Dash a huge thank you! If you don’t have this food delivery service it is worth the app to download on your smartphone. Another Broken Egg is one of my favorite brunch restaurants and every time I visit Gulf Shores, it is a must-have. Usually, I’d recommend restaurants like GT’s On The Bay or Barefoot Island Grill. If you don’t have to venture out, let the food come to you.

Here are some Door Dash promo codes for July. Hurry, they’ll be expiring soon.

Making the Best of Gulf Shores

We Are Family
I envisioned a tropical vacation trip out of the country (it would’ve been my first time) for my fifth wedding anniversary. I’ve had previous thoughts about taking a cruise or a trip to the Bahamas. However, circumstances allowed us to create memories in other ways.

The trip to Gulf Shores allowed my family and me to find innovative ways to bond. Usually, vacations are filled with activities, events, and itineraries. Quality time indoors while you’re away from home is typically minimal but, it deepened our communication with each other. For example, we played Zingo (a fun sight word game for toddlers) for a family fun night. Landon enjoyed identifying words on his (and everyone else’s) boards and getting a taste of winning at games.

What Summer travel plans did you have to change due to COVID-19? Will you still be taking any trips with the Summer almost coming to an end? Have you taken any trips yet this Summer? Leave a comment below.
You’ll Want These: Simple Veet 3-In-1 Wax Strips
On Instagram, I talked in my stories about wanting to try body waxing at home. I am still uncomfortable and apprehensive about going out. COVID-19 is like that guest that can’t seem to take a hint when they are on the verge of overstaying their welcome. Even though Mississippi has deemed it “safe” for residents to get back to some sort of normalcy, I will still be hosting Self Spa Nights at my home until further notice. My friends recommended I try Veet 3-in-1 Wax Strips.

Disclaimer: Heads up! My posts contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but I’ll get a small commission, which helps keep the lights on. Thanks!

My followers on Instagram agreed that I should try body waxing and recommended that I try Veet’s 3-in-1 Wax Strips or Sensitive Precision Beauty Styler (an electric trimmer for facial hair). I decided to conduct a poll because I didn’t know which one I wanted to try out first. Both products seemed like a great fit for what I wanted to accomplish. The people voted and decided that the 3-in-1 Wax Kit was what they were so eager for me to try. A lot of you had positive feedback about what you liked about it and what it was able to do for you.

Scroll on to read more about Veet 3-in- 1 Wax Strips & the Waxing Body Kit

About Veet

Veet has made waxing super fun, quick, and easy with their latest body waxing strips. I was able to wax in under 25 mins & now I love body waxing at home!

Veet 3-in-1 waxing strips effectively removes hair close to the root in just a few minutes! The formula with cold wax strips quickly removes 95% of your hair at the first application while leaving your skin moisturized. It is best suited for sensitive skin as it is enriched with Shea Butter and Acai Berries fragrance that help nourish your skin and leaves behind salon-like glowing smooth skin with results lasting up to 28 days for a refreshing experience. The pre-cut body hair removal strips are for ready-to-apply action in seconds and perfect finish wipes will help clean up any remaining wax residue.

I purchased my wax kit from Amazon. You can easily get yours from Wal-Mart or Target while you’re out, but if you’re like me and shop online for convenience, I got you. Grab yours here.

One Veet 3-in- 1 Wax Strips Kit includes:
1. 40-count wax strips
2. 4 Perfect Finish Wipes
I did not realize that I ordered a two-pack until it arrived, so I have (80) wax strips total. I knew that since it’s been six weeks since the last shave I needed to make sure I had enough. FYI: one box is enough.

Take a look at the 3-in-1 Waxing Kit contents below.

The use of the gel wax strips was simple and easy. I decided to wax my underarms and legs and you can watch as I review my experience in the video below.

How to use Veet 3-in-1 Wax Strips

There are just four easy steps. Gently peel the double-sided wax strips apart using the grip tabs. Next, apply the strip to the skin, and grip the tab side facing downwards. Rub several times in the hair growth direction your hair grows.

Pro Tip: Always pull back the strip against the direction of hair growth, keeping the strip close to the skin as you pull.

Hold your skin tightly stretched, grasp the tab, and pull the strip back on itself as quickly as you can! The faster you pull, the more hair you remove! After waxing, clean away any wax left on your skin with the Perfect Finish Wipe.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Veet 3-in-1 Wax Strips Review

Very easy! I was so pleased and happy with the end result. I did have to clean up mid-waxing because I waxed the same area more than once. It became TOO much gel TOO fast. LOL! The instructions for use do recommend to wax in a consistent pattern to make sure you don’t miss hairs.

However, DO NOT wax over the same area more than once. My leg hairs did not show well in pics or on film due to lack of hair. Veet has made waxing at home super fun, quick, and easy. I was able to wax in under 25 mins! That was super convenient for me because Landon (my son) was ready for me to spend some time with him.

Let me know your experience with using Veet’s 3-in-1 Wax Strip Kit in the comments below. If you are looking to do more self-care things like this when you’re at home, give this a try. I have decided that I just might not ever return to a spa for waxing services ever again! Oh and if you’re not already, make sure you’re following me on Instagram and YouTube so that you can catch my posts and videos.

Check out more self-care posts:
What You Don’t Know About College (Secrets Exposed)
Congratulations High school graduates! Hats off to all of you who will be graduating this month. You’ve made it through grades K-12 and the grand finale to your academic challenges has arrived. You deserve to celebrate! What a momentous milestone! Embrace this moment in time, for when you get to college, it’s a whole new world!

A new fantastic point of view. No one to tell you no, or where to go. College is going to teach you things about yourself and you should be prepared for some of the experiences headed your way. College doesn’t come with a manual or an attachment PDF file on how to maintain during your tenure. Moreover, I’m sure that this post won’t be the only piece of college advice you’ll receive.

Family is going to persuade or dissuade some of your decision makings. The beauty of all this unsolicited advice is to take heed but still “do you”. Finally, to truly enjoy this dazzling place you’ve never known, you sometimes have to let your heart decide.

Six Rules for Prepping for College

Be Ready To Meet The New You
I know that self-discovery while in grades K-12 was an emotional and physical rollercoaster. Usually, high school can do a great job of making you believe that you’ve got everything figured out (including self). However, you should know that you are going to change quite often after your first college experience. This will give you opportunities where you can develop and transform into who you truly are or want to be.

Imagine being shy and reserved throughout high school but beginning to shed those outer layers, exposing your newfound appreciation for your overtly outgoing personality. Imagine being a procrastinator in grade school and developing into a person that’s OCD about organization and punctuality. College can bring some amazing qualities and attributes that you most likely did not know resides within you!

Go To Class… On-Time!
Of course, if you’re enrolled in courses at a University or two-year college, why wouldn’t you be attending class? You’ll be surprised at the overwhelming plethora of things to do on campus. All of those activities can make going to class seem inferior to what you feel is more important at the time. Don’t listen! Go to class! It’s even more important if you’re going to be staying on campus. There’s not going to be anyone around to make sure that you’re up on time for class. Your roommate could but I wouldn’t rely on that too heavily. They’ve got their schedule to follow. Invest in a reliable and sturdy alarm clock (not just the one on your phone).

Note: Select courses that don’t start super early! A 7 am or 8 am class is not good for anybody but early birds.

Join Programs & Be Social
One way to make friends with peers is to meet them. There are SO many people to meet in college! They’re from all over the world and they’re looking to create the same experiences as you. I met several colleagues through campus programs and activities being offered. Getting involved in something like a fraternity or sorority might be one of the things to interest you. Joining the student newspaper or Resident Assistant program might also be some things to look into. I guarantee you that there will be plenty of unusual activities to participate in and you should take advantage!

Live on Campus
If you’ve decided that you will attend your local college or enroll in online courses, I hope that I’m not too late to persuade you to try out dorm life. Please consider staying on campus! I know, I know. You don’t like the idea of sharing a tiny space with someone you don’t know. You’re timid just thinking about the idea of showering in a common “private but public” space and prefer the privacy in your bathroom. I had those same sentiments but still gave on-campus housing a try.

Honestly, staying in dorms for three years of my college life gave me one of my biggest unforgettable moments. It’s such a fun experience and gives you another opportunity to meet new people through roommates and other hall residents. Think of it as your first taste of living on your own by making it your new home. Decorate your room with basic dorm room essentials! Amazon is giving students the opportunity to sign up for Amazon Prime for just $6/mo. Just in time to stock up on things that you need before August gets here.

College Isn’t The Only Option
School may not be for everybody. Do you have other plans for your life? You could. For those that are looking to join the workforce as soon as they’re able to cross the stage, take your time to research job opportunities. There are systems set in place like trade schools to help you learn your passionate craft. You’ll have to keep in mind that you’re graduating high school right now. Some if not most jobs will require previous experience and/or advanced training.

Then there’s another option. You could join a branch of the military. If you’re looking for someone to advocate that decision, I regret to inform you that I can not support the decision. However, I could and would respect it. I’ve seen a couple of my friends turn military life into something to aspire to have. My advice would be to weigh the pros and cons. It’s still an option that’s available and one for you to consider.

The other option you could choose would be opting to attend a two-year college first. That’s certainly one that would be high on anyone’s list that may be graduating from high school! You should be finalizing your decisions on whatever you’re planning to do after high school soon.

Seize The Moment
The only thing that there’s left to do is to enjoy your new life! You’ve made it to college and that’s a major deal. College is going to bring you memories that are going to last a lifetime. Get excited about those Homecoming nights & the captivating nightlife. It’ll feel as if you’re in a movie. Participate in tailgates and social gatherings as much as you can. You and your peers will rewrite college culture and make it your own! I’m certain that the libations and spirits will make for a great time. Enjoy this rollercoaster ride and worry about dating and children later. Spend this time chasing your dreams and enjoying even the bumps in the road.

Check out more life tips:
To those who have graduated, what advice would you give to the graduating class of 2020? What things have you learned throughout your time in college? What is something that you wish someone would have told you before you started college?
My First Amazon Haul (Everything You Need)!

While I have been sheltering in place, I have had so much free time. Idle time eventually led to scrolling through websites and apps on my phone. The next thing I knew, I have spent more money than I probably should have shopping on Amazon these last few weeks. Every single day for a solid three weeks to a month, I have found myself on Amazon or websites like them buying some essential and some non-essential things. As a result, I decided to do an Amazon haul.

Clothes, shoes, makeup, purses, and beauty products. I’m not even kidding! It doesn’t help that having things like Amazon Prime, which will guarantee your item’s arrival within 48 hours taunting you, either. So I’ve decided to share a few of my purchases.

Don’t worry, these are all products you benefit from! I know that you’ll be thrilled to be introduced to these products and probably can’t wait to put them in your cart. I hope you look forward to seeing posts like this once a month. Furthermore, Amazon has impressed me with the quality of the items I purchased.
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How To Create a Beautiful Image Backdrop
Do you love to take quality pictures and video content? Have you ever found yourself trying to take the perfect photograph for your Instagram feed, but your background looks a mess? Maybe you’re a blogger/ vlogger trying to record a video but your shower curtain is photobombing you because that’s the only space where you can create. You could be trying to take the cutest photo of your kid for a special occasion without wanting to pay a photographer for backdrop services. Photography services can be expensive!

Having backdrops can really enhance your photo and video aesthetic value to your digital content. That’s why professionals like photographers and videographers rely on them so heavily! You, too, can have your very own backdrop sis! What’s even better is that you can make a backdrop yourself, saving money on future professional photography services forever. Woohoo!

So, I hopped on Pinterest to search for ideas for photo/video backdrops and backgrounds. I soon learned the basic essentials of making a flower wall backdrop! This was a great idea, as people use flower walls as backdrops for weddings and baby showers. Pinterest makes everything seem so easy!

Materials Needed for Backdrop

Here’s a list of all the materials that I used to create my Sunflower backdrop wall. The grid panel frames I got from Amazon. All flowers were ordered from eFavor Mart.

Disclaimer: LIFE + STYLE with Kris receives a commission for using Amazon products for the projects that I share in posts. Although I receive a commission for using and linking their products, they are extremely good for my projects. All opinions and suggestions are unbiased.

10-Pack Grid Plant Wall Frames ($25.99)

Hot Glue Gun + Glue Sticks ($9.99)

Push Pin Tacks ($5.99)
- 252 Pcs- Chocolate Artificial Mini Carnation Flowers – $14.99/ea
- 6 Pk Ivory and Cream Assorted Size Paper Peony Flowers – $10.99
- Natural and Cream Assorted Size Paper Peony Flowers – $10.99
- Light and Dark Yellow Assorted Size Paper Peony Flowers – $10.99
- 144 Ct. Ivory Paper Mini Flower Roses – $3.99
The steps that I took to building my Sunflower wall actually were as simplistic as Pinterest made it seem to be. There really aren’t many steps involved in building a backdrop BUT it is time-consuming. I could have completed this in less than six days and you may be able to finish it in a shorter timeframe. However, I was not in a hurry to complete this project. I wanted it to turn out beautiful and honestly, I had so much fun making it!

Build Your Panel Frames

I used the beautiful chocolate carnation flowers as what I call my “base” color. The panel size dimensions are 19 x 14in. and require a lot of artificial flowers. There are over 100 pegs to fill! To fill them, simply attach the stem of your artificial flower to the peg on each panel frame. I used nine-panel frames for my backdrop. I originally wanted a combination of different carnations (chocolate and cream) but made a choice to forego it. Buying flowers in bulk can be expensive!

TIP: Think about what color(s) you will use in great detail. The more color you want, the more money you will spend.

Gluing Paper Flowers

If you choose the perfect flower, you may not want to add additional details. I added white paper roses to the center of my carnations for a 3D look. Using a hot glue gun, I glued the roses to every other carnation for each panel frame.

TIP: If you are fine with the flower you’ve already used, then you can easily move on to attaching your panel frames to your wall.

Place Frames on the Wall

Designate your space/area where you will build your frames. I used a wall in our home office because that’s where I go to create most of my digital content. I used thumb tacks to pine each panel closely together evenly.

TIP: Building a full wall is great for full body images. If you are going to use your backdrop for mainly selfies/headshots, you should use fewer (roughly six) panels.

Continue Adding Embellishments: Peony Flowers

The last task for me to execute is adding peony flowers. They arrive flat after ordering, so I had to fluff out 12 paper peony flowers before attaching them to the frames. Each peony has a clear string hook that makes for easy attachment. I love that they also came with peel-off adhesives! I should have ordered more of these (probably will go back and buy more).

Backdrops are easy to do!

Overall, I would rate this project 5 stars on how easy it was to make this. I will most likely continue to embellish with more peony flowers in the future. What is unique about this project is that it’s universal–you can use it for anything! You can easily take it apart and build it again and again for any occasion to add beautiful and amazing detail to your images.

Watch my YouTube tutorial video below to see how I made my beautiful backdrop for less. Please like and share this post if you’ve enjoyed learning how to enhance your digital images. Subscribe to me on YouTube to watch more tutorials and follow me on Instagram to see me share images using my new backdrop!
Social Distancing: Self-Care & Keep the Faith
The world has been under stress while trying to remain calm in the midst of chaos. The arguably most infectious virus, COVID-19, continues to sweep the nation indoors! If you’re outside, social distancing is required. I have been following the frightening headlines from February to the present day, and you know what? I’M TIRED!

Two weeks ago marked the last time I punched a time clock, the last time my son would see his friends and teacher, and the first time that I was forced to distance myself from the outer world due to safety and health concerns. Our old routine as we once knew it is no more. Additionally, I’ve had to get innovative to keep sanity and normalcy and to keep from spiraling into a depression.

The thing about home is that this is our resting place, our “safety net”, where we come to take a break from the things we do every day. Now our home is home to Miss Mama’s P-4 Academy, the Buchanan YouTube GYM, and our updated version of “The Office”— minus the paper sales. All of these headquarters reside right in our forever-transforming living room.

Social Distancing Activities

Miss Mama’s P-4 Academy was created to keep Landon sharp on his writing, tracing, coloring, and reading. Every morning (Monday- Friday), Landon and I begin classwork after breakfast–around 8-9 am. First, we tackle the task of tracing and writing his name. Mary’s Little Lambs, the school Landon attends, put together a packet of schoolwork to keep kids busy and on track with the curriculum. The packet consists of writing, coloring, counting, and matching skill sets.

Landon practiced writing his name, coloring, and matching opposites.

Landon practiced writing his name, coloring, and matching opposites.

After classwork is completed, Landon has the option of going outside to play in the front yard or taking a walk in the neighborhood. He always chooses to go for the walk first and we later go back outside in the afternoon. The walk is usually no more than a block or two and we come back home. The rest of the afternoon is dedicated to free time, usually after a well-needed and deserved nap.

TIP: Flashcards have been our latest game to encourage the spelling of words. We also have alphabet letter magnets on our refrigerator that we use to also encourage spelling.

More Quarantine Activities

Afternoons are for taking care of important business in “The Office”. Usually, I get started around 2-3 pm, and that time consists of working strictly from my laptop or phone. I make my own schedule and this is a benefit to building my brand. I get more time to create content, engage with and build my audience, and commit to a more consistent writing schedule. This will last until about 7 pm, and then I start transitioning into retiring for the day.

Self-care time with Que Bella Beauty products!
Hydrating Pineapple Peel Off Mask/ Intensive Foot Sock Mask both left my skin feeling rejuvenated!

Self-care is important and I believe in it. Last week, I gave myself a mini facial and a foot mask all while still managing to fit in family time! However, every self-care activity I choose to do is different. It depends on how I am feeling that day.

Yesterday, I did a 25- minute Hip Hop Workout right from my living room TV. Sometimes I choose to rest and simply “be still”. Additionally, I choose to avoid the internet for a few hours to shut out all the noise. Moreover, I’ve been watching more TV than usual due to all the extra time I’ve got on my hands now. Below is a list of all the movies and TV shows that I’ve been watching while being in the house.

Binging TV while Social Distancing

NOTE: This list is subject to be updated at any time

Although it appears I’ve got it all figured out, I’m really just winging it. There are really only three keys to making it through quarantining and social distancing, with the main one being following through.

Stay at home and practice social distancing only in essential situations (going to work/ grocery stores). Remain optimistic and positive! This is an obstacle but just like any other, we can and we will make it through. Furthermore, find the silver lining to what social distancing has forced us to do, which is be still, healthy, and take care. Creativity will lead the way if you allow it. In times of boredom, it’s amazing what your mind can create.

Check out more ideas for quarantining and social distancing:
Comment below and tell me what you’ve been doing during this time. I’m looking for new ideas! I want to share these experiences with you all.
35 Things I Want To Do Before Turning 35
With everything that is happening in the world right now, I can’t help but sit and reflect on the things I want to do. Life has a funny way of slowing you down. It’s been forcing me to really sit down and put some long thought into what I reaaallly need to be coming to terms with. What’s that? So glad that you asked. Life is short and if you let it, it can pass you by.

Time waits for no one.

I know you know the sayings, just like I know the sayings. We’ve heard them quite a few times throughout our lives, but is it just a saying or is it really that real? While I have been choosing to isolate myself at home by way of social distancing, I’ve been thinking of all the things that I should be doing. That I have been putting off or simply making excuses as to reasons why they can’t be done. I’ve let myself get distracted from meeting my goals, guys!! I’m thirty-one years old and there’s still so much that I want to do. The younger me thought that I would’ve been “settled” and boyyyy was I wrong.

Hold up! Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been enjoying life but I’ve realized that there are things that I have not had the chance to do yet; that I thought I would have by this stage in life. I haven’t and will not give up on them, as there are other things I want to experience again because it makes me happy. Who doesn’t want to experience something that made them once happy over and over?

So, I’ve decided to come up with a list.

A list of things that I would like to do before reaching the next “major milestone” in my life. I did the math. I’m thirty-one now. In four years, I will be thirty-five. Four years should be enough time to knock off a few goals, right? Did I come up with realistic ideas that can be achieved? How much can one achieve in four years? It’ll at least give me some things to look forward to doing. As long as I am manifesting my goals, I can keep being the driving force in actually accomplishing whatever it is I want! I’ve attached my list below and included a few that I’m working on already, to give myself a head start.

List of 35 Things I Want To Do Before 35
1. Become a successful blogger
2. Travel or vacation in Miami, Florida
3. Buy or build a House
4. Travel or vacation outside of the U.S.
5. Renew my vows
6. Relocate to a new state
7. Take online courses or go back to college
8. Go on a cruise
9. Increase my net worth
10. Upgrade my car
11. Lower my debt/ increase my credit score
12. Partner with a major corporate brand
13. Travel or vacation to Los Angeles, California
14. Attend a concert or festival
15. Successfully own a business
16. Become a member of a church
17. Own a creative space
18. Redecorate/ Interior decorate my home
19. Learn a new skill
20. Spend more time with family and friends
21. BE HAPPIER!
22. Support a hobby or extracurricular activity of my son’s
23. Attend a Paint ‘N Sip Party
24. BE HEALTHIER!
25. Take my mother on a shopping spree
26. Splurge on a shopping spree for myself
27. Go to therapy
28. Create a meditation schedule
29. Chase my dreams
30. Gain 25 pounds
31. Establish a tribe
32. Read 10 different books
33. Make/ create a new project
34. Exercise two times a day
35. Go to a ball/ gala
Check out more goals/ inspiration posts:
Have a bucket list of your own? Maybe you’re inspired and want to make your own list now. I want to hear about all the things that you have yet to do/ want to do. Let’s motivate each other. Leave me a comment below so that I can follow along with you!
How Releasing Negative Thoughts Improved My Life

Negative thoughts are thoughts that stand in the way of good health. The road to self-improvement is a constant journey that requires regular maintenance. I am consistently being challenged to find more ways to persevere through obstacles that arise and it sometimes triggers me to react negatively. My thoughts and fears take over and send me on a downward spiral of self-doubt and uncertainty. I’ve learned how to channel that energy into practicing mindfulness and meditation and it’s really been essential to my self-help development. However, I don’t always feel like being mindful or meditating every day.

Stop and Redirect Negative Energy

When my thoughts and emotions start taking over and controlling my reactions, I’ve learned to stop and redirect them. The one thing that I’ve learned while practicing meditation is that the mind can drift off if you let distractions deter you. You know that you can multitask, you know that you can focus on more than one thing at a time. It’s very easy to lose focus on positivity and the things that matter the most to you. Shifts happen all the time in everyday life, what went well today may not go well tomorrow, and boom! You’re in your head again. Adjusting to shifts in your routine and everyday life isn’t always a quick and easy transition.

PRO TIP: stay vigilant. You cannot allow negative emotions to dictate your life. The moment that you feed into that negative energy, you are creating and building more obstacles and hurdles for yourself. Discipline yourself to stop and redirect that energy somewhere. Channel it into something else that will emote positive results and energy.

Write Your Negative Thoughts Down

My head can easily get clogged attempting to process every single thought and feeling that you have. Painfully overwhelming! What makes it more difficult is trying to sort out those feelings and emotions all at once. It’s too much! How can I solve my problems when I can’t even clearly think about them? Writing down thoughts, feelings, and fears can and will declutter your mind, giving me at least a moment of peace. Writing has always been a safe haven for anyone to be able to speak their mind freely.

PRO TIP: write it down and read it to yourself aloud. Decide if it’s worth holding on to. If your answer is yes, stop and redirect. If your answer is no, ball up your piece of paper with your thoughts and feelings, and throw it away. Let go of that feeling of wanting to think and react negatively.

See also: How to Reduce Stress and Self-Care Everyday

Negative Thoughts are Normal

There’s no way that I should be expecting myself to be perfect, yet I still do. I’ve trained myself that I should expect nothing but excellence. I’m a planner and an organizer. In my mind, I think that I have what it takes to be perfect. Truth is, it’s impossible for anyone to be perfect. However, for some odd reason, I think that I’m supposed to handle every thought and feeling perfect. I’ve since learned that I need to take a moment, stop and redirect. Realistically I cannot think that everything that I do or every emotion that I have is going to be positive. Especially while on a path to self-improvement because

*spoiler alert*: it doesn’t happen overnight. I’m going to stop blaming myself every time something goes wrong. I’m also going to discipline myself to stop blaming others every time something goes wrong. PRO TIP: the plan is to always continue moving forward. It’s never personal, it’s a challenge. Don’t question the challenge (no matter how difficult it may be). Stop and redirect. Know that you are deserving of a happy life and believe it!

Consistent Work Will Decrease Negative Thoughts

One thing that I know for sure is that I can never give up on improving the way that I want to live my life. Negative thoughts come and go and they only linger if you fuel that energy. Stop giving life to things that don’t make your life better! Consistently putting in the work to defeat negativity and the pessimist views that it brings is going to require great discipline. Implement discipline and routine practice daily to stay focused and on track to meeting the goals that I want to meet and attain. In the beginning, it may be rough, but you’ve got to see it through by staying consistent. PRO TIP: repetition is key.

I’m taking control over what consumes my mind and I encourage anyone else who hasn’t been in control of their thoughts to also do the same. I’m human, you’re human. Discipline yourself to stop and redirect negative energy. Continue to move forward even when you’re feeling like you’re not ready for the challenge. Stay consistent and develop a high level of focusing on what positively impacts your life.
3 Powerful Books Recommended for Self-Help

At the end of the last year, I decided that I was going to start spending more time focusing on myself. The routines and habits that I have grown accustomed to having gotta go! It’s as simple as this: I need to get back to enjoying life. After some major life-changing events, I quit doing a lot of the things that I typically enjoy. I’m not myself anymore. So, I went back to reading books to start my self-help journey. I’ve found three books that are going to help retrain my mind and thought processes on how to live a meaningful and happy life again. Additionally, these three books recommended in this post have lots of rave reviews!

Since I am a very busy lady, I really don’t have much time to just sit in a quiet room or corner, curled up with a book. I’ve heard some really great things about Audible (powered by Amazon), a digital audiobook reader. You can listen to your favorite books through the app that you have on your smart device & Audible is giving you a free 30-day trial, plus your first audiobook for free! This was the easiest route for me and obviously a no-brainer. Parents, we read bedtime stories every night. Let’s allow someone else to do the reading for us.

Self-Help Books Recommended: Manual for Living

Manual for Living, by Epictetus, is the first book on the list. This book helps readers to see that some things are in their power and some are not, and to stop confusing the two. Our opinions of things determine how we feel about a particular event, not the event itself. The manual also wants us to challenge ourselves to think carefully about how we decide to spend our lives. People often spend their lives chasing things that are neither desirable nor as important as they seem. People also spend time desiring things that are not in their power. If this book describes you in any way, this will be a great read for you.

Self-Help Books Recommended: The Practicing Mind

Secondly, The Practicing Mind takes readers on a path of developing focus and discipline in their lives. For those of us who like (or dislike) acquiring new skills or facing dreadful challenges that we hope to overcome, patience/focus/discipline are the traits that seem very difficult to maintain. The author, Thomas Sterner, will demonstrate how to learn skills for any aspect of life (from business to love) by learning to love the process. This is key for people who are in the business of practicing instant gratification. Remember: if at first, you don’t succeed, try again!

Self-Help Books Recommended: 10% Happier

The third, and final book on the list, is 10% Happier (written by Dan Harris). 10% Happier is about the discovery of meditation. The author depicts his personal journey and how he began to self-help through meditation. The book tells readers about practicing mindfulness and meditation and allows readers to relate even more by discussing the skepticism behind it. I’m certain there are even a few readers today that are skeptical about meditation, but I implore you to give it a try. I meditate regularly and the book and I are here to tell you that… it works! If you believe.

If you’re wondering, I haven’t completed all of the books yet, but I have started reading. Hopefully, with the help of Audible, I can complete these a bit faster than the time that it would normally take a busy person to read a book. If you are on a self-care journey, incorporate these books into your plan. Self-care has to start with you. Please share any other books that you’ve read or plan on reading for self-improvement by leaving a comment below. Let’s improve the quality of our lives together!
Secrets Exposed: Black Girl Culture Is The Moment
The day that I decided I was going to get back into writing again, I did a little bit of exploring for inspiration. For some creative minds, when you haven’t been practicing with your craft/talent, it’s likely due to falling out of love with your passion. I started taking the beginner steps necessary to change my life. I stumbled across BGC, (Black Girl Culture) a blog engineered by black women, for black women. Pop Culture, Politics/Activism, Lifestyle, Music, Health & Beauty, Fashion–all curated by Black women.

After hours of reading posts and drawing inspiration, I saw that this blog was looking for writers for the winter. Moreover, they were looking for writers for any topic, wanting to center their voice. My inner voice started speaking to me and I said, “Hey, girl! Let’s do this!” Let’s get out of our comfort zone! This could be life-changing for me. Sometimes, you have to stop holding yourself back.

I submitted my writing for what was considered the application process.

The Culture Is You, Black Girl!

See what happens when you… leap? Faith can bring many things your way when you just believe. Now, your girl will write weekly blog articles for Blk Girl Culture, from January 2020 to March 2020. I will be starting and continuing conversations in Health/Beauty for an audience of 100,000+ readers. Blk Girl Culture also has posts featured in magazines and new sources like Complex, Teen Vogue, CNN, BBC, and Blavity among others.

I am so excited about this opportunity! My life is changing and pulling me in the direction of my passion. I was only looking for the light to spark a bit, and with opportunities like this, the passion came right back. I hope you get to catch some of my posts!

Get to know me:
- Getting to Know Me: Shocking Secrets Exposed
Leave me a comment and tell me which posts are your favorite!
7 Lessons Learned in Life
There are so many lessons that have been taught to me over the course of my thirty-one years of existence on planet Earth. It’s hard to even recall all of the lessons that many people have taught me, or the self-taught ones that I’ve learned over the process of trial and error. What I’ve come to find out, is that the most recent lessons that I’ve learned are the ones that have shaped and molded my self-improvement journey. I decided to share them with readers, in no particular order. To clarify, these are seven valuable lessons learned in life (mine).

List of Lessons Learned in Life
1. love
2. trust
3. self-care
4. speak up
5. passion
6. education
7. validation
Photo by Katerina Holmes on Pexels.com

Life Lessons #1: LOVE YOURSELF

Although I said earlier that my list is in no particular order, perhaps this is the best way to start; with yourself. You are important, you are beautiful, you are talented, you are deserving of love. The most beautiful thing about loving yourself is that if you’ve mastered self love, you can then be able to pour that love into the ones around you that you love the most (ie. family, friends). Be proud of yourself and your accomplishments or your falls! Own it.

Life Lessons #2: TRUST GOD, NOT MAN

This one may go over a few heads, but it’s really quite simple. Yes, if you know that you will never let yourself down, please place trust within yourself. However, people can sometimes disappoint. That goes for everybody, no one person is exempt. Family, friends, spouses, business partners. At some point, you will find yourself in situations where you have to question “can I honestly trust this person?”, and you need to be prepared to know a few things. Not everyone is YOU. People will lie, mistreat, abuse their power in your life. When you place your faith in God and also yourself, you run a decreased risk of disappointment.

Life Lessons #3: TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Your body is truly your temple. Your mental health is just as important as physical health. Do your research to find out the best practices for self-care, that work best for you. Everybody has a different vice but there are many different options. Exercise regularly, visit a therapist, meditate! Most important, pay attention to your triggers and know when you need to take that moment for yourself. A big gem that I learned here, is that deep breaths really do work.

Life Lessons #4: SILENCE IS NOT ALWAYS GOLDEN

You have a voice, use it. Especially during conflicts and conflict resolution. Learn to express yourself and your feelings in color. Learn how to communicate loudly and effectively, but without raising your voice or getting too angry. You should be able to convey your thoughts concisely, in healthy dialogue.

Life Lessons #5: PASSION DOES NOT EQUAL ANGER

You just care a whole, whole lot. That’s okay! You’re not an angry Black woman, contrary to what the masses say. You care about particular things and people way more than others sometimes, and that is what makes us all unique. No one person is the same. Passion will eventually help your creative process, with being able to figure out new way(s) to express your thoughts.

Life Lessons #6: OPINIONS ARE NOT FACTS

Why do people care so much about what others have to say? Stop seeking for others to validate you, and validate yourself. People will always talk and have solicited and unsolicited opinions, but why let it dictate your life? Tune out the naysayers and do you. It can start to add unnecessary anxiety and stress that you may not even realize exists until after you’ve listened to what others have to say. Just remember, if it’s not fact, it is fiction. If it doesn’t apply, then let it fly!

Life Lessons #7: EDUCATE YOURSELF

The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.– Socrates

Educate yourself. Research, research, research! Read lots of books, browse the internet. Especially if you want to be an entrepreneur. Every thing is not always taught in school, we can learn in so many other ways!

See Related: 3 Powerful Books Recommended for Self-Help

I hope that by sharing what I’ve learned in life, helps any of you that’s been looking to change your thought process on how you view life. Hopefully we are all on a journey to improve ourselves and become happy humans, enjoying life. Who would have thought that these are things we have to learn? Some of you may have already learned these lessons, and that’s great. I hope that by paying it forward, it will reach someone that may be struggling with any of these lessons that affect our day-to-day operations.

See Related: How To Reduce Stress and Self-Care Everyday

What are some life lessons that you’ve learned? Leave a comment below. If you know of anyone who this may benefit, share/ reblog!
30- Day Self Improvement Challenge
Rediscovery and self-purpose are two things that I have been working with myself on throughout the year. The younger person inside of me would have probably thought that this is something I should already be perfect in. Especially in my 30s! Additionally, I’m starting to believe that it can take even longer to truly understand and live in your purpose. Therefore, I convinced myself to complete a 30-day self improvement challenge.

Sometimes it seems that I might have figured out where I want to be. Then, I get hit with a possibility that I did not even know could exist. I am certain of a couple of things:

I am not perfect and I am still blossoming into my destiny.

Make Room for the Self Improvement Challenge

When you aren’t a novice to things that you’ve once experienced before, you begin to search for a challenge. Challenging yourself can be a great way to test your progress and see growth. Additionally, challenges help you practice patience and learn new habits to take the place of old habits. I was once told by Oprah and several other popular online articles that it takes twenty-one days (minimum) to break/ create a habit.

I found this neat challenge on Pinterest that is designed to help change my lifestyle. As I am starting this challenge, I am manifesting that by the end of it, I will have a clear concept of where I would like to take my career. 2019 challenged my career goals really hard as I worked tirelessly for my employers and tried to be my own boss simultaneously. I no longer want to do both and I want clear and concise ideas for how to accomplish my goal!

I have attached the 30- Day Self Improvement Challenge below and hope that you all decide to join me. Let’s get the conversation going and leave me a comment if you will be joining and if you face any challenges during your 30 days. Of course, I look forward to the end result for all of us!

I am forever grateful for the self-courage and wisdom that I was able to discover while quieting my mind and rediscovering my purpose. Now, I am one step closer to reaching the end goal, even though I know there are many steps between the start and finish line. I am just proud of myself for even starting.

Use #30DaySelfImprovement on other social media outlets such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so I can catch all posts.

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