Tag: simplified planner

Categories
Currently

Currently #57

Hello All! 

Happy end of September! By the end of August, I was so ready for September. This has been a month of adjusting, finding new routines, and self care, plus family time, travels, and time reconnecting with friends. The seasons changed from summer to fall and now we are in full fall mode and I am ready for it. 

As we get ready for a new month just days away, I’m sharing a look into life lately. 

What I’ve Been Up To: 

I have been finding new places to run this month. I’ve run by the water and in different parks. It’s been fun to find new places and try new terrain to challenge myself.

Beautiful days as we transition from summer to fall

I also hit a new milestone in my distance by running 9.5 miles, which I’m really proud of. 

Another highlight of the month was getting my new Simplified planner for 2025. I went with Blush Block and can’t wait for the new year to break out my new planner. 

I also got in one last zoo trip of the season on a beautiful day. 

What I’m Wearing:

I have been trying to wear all my summer clothes before it gets too cold out. I have been wearing lots of shorts and blouse sets for heading out to dinner or time with friends.

This was another outfit I wore for work recently as we transition from summer to winter. The blazers are coming back.

I wore this for a day out and about and even though I wore white after Labor Day, the layers made me feel very fall-like.

What I’m Reading: 

Atomic Habits–Atomic Habits by James Clear discusses the importance of building habits, creating routines, and starting small. He goes in-depth about the science and psychology of habits. He also gives real life examples of how to start small and build up to making life changes. I love and thrive off a good routine and rhythm and found this book fascinating. I learned so much and it really helped me better understand some of my habits and how I can build off them.

Just for the Summer– Abby Jiminez’s Just for the Summer was a really easy book to get swept into. It’s about a man and woman who both have the same issue, they date people, break up and then the person they are dating find their soulmate. The man and woman decide to date with hopes of finding their soulmate next. But life throws them both some curveballs. This wasn’t your typical beach read, there is a lot of depth and meat to it.

Swan Song– The final Elin Hilderbrand, Nantucket book, Swan Song  follows a couple who moves to the island and immediately makes themselves a part of the community, but there is a bit of a mystery to them especially when they hire a girl who has no connection to Nantucket either. I like how there is more substance to Hilderbrand’s books, they aren’t just light and fluffy. here were a lot of references to past characters from other books, and I loved the description of Nantucket and all the restaurants and hot spots. 

The Lazy Genius Way– I have been a big fan of Kendra Adachi and listen to her podcast weekly. I finally got around to reading her book, The Lazy Genius Way and I loved it. She goes in depth with a lot of the topics she covers in her podcast. I love how she writes very conversationally. I also got a workbook to go alongside it and found myself taking notes along the way. If you are looking for a book on how to work and live smarter and not harder, this is it.

The Five Star Weekend– I was on an Elin Hilderbrand role this month between watching The Perfect Couple, reading Swan Song and listening to The Five Star Weekend. I really loved this book, it’s all about a woman who invites four friends from different points of her life for a weekend on Nantucket. I loved hearing how all the friendships came to be and about the weekend itself. The description of Nantucket makes me want to visit. I also loved the storyline and the unexpected twists and drama too. It gets 5 Stars from me.

The Rom Commers- I ended the month with the Rom Commers by Katherine Center. It’s about two screenwriters (one very well-known and one newbie who are paired together together to write a screenplay for a romantic comedy together. There’s tension between the two at the start, but in typical rom-com fashion, feelings begin to bubble. I really liked the character development, but there were a few plot points that seemed a bit far fetched. But the concept and ending were worth it.

What I’m Watching: This past month I have been catching up on shows as the weather gets cooler. I finished season four of Emily in Paris which was really good. I liked the second half more than the first., but overall it was a good season.

My boyfriend and I have also been making our way through Breaking Bad which has been a new genre to us, but a good show and I’m glad we are watching it. 

 I also watched the mini-series, The Perfect Couple which is based on Elin Hilderbrand’s book and really loved the series and it followed the book pretty close.

What I’m Cooking: I have been back on the cooking train and have really been enjoying cooking with seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad– This was such a flavorful meal. I loved the mixture of fruits and vegetables with the protein. I also have been adding feta cheese or almonds or pecans for some extra flavor. 

Ham, Cheese and Apple Flatbread- This was an easy lunch. I used sliced ham, provolone cheese and sliced apples on a flatbread and put it in the Airfryer for a few minutes. I loved the mix of flavors and the crispness of toasting it. This was a great fall-like meal too. 

Grilled Chicken and Roasted Zucchini– Another easy, flavorful, and healthy meal. I really loved the mix of vegetables and the flavor of the chicken combined with it. It also took less than an hour to make, super easy on a busy night. 

Chickpea Salad- i found this recipe on Pinterest and made it for my lunch for work. I really loved the chickpeas mixed with the vegetables and Italian dressing. It was very filling and healthy too, plus a great source of protein. 

Shrimp Stir Fry– This was an easy one pot recipe that was very filling and flavorful. It took under 30 minutes to cook the shrimp, rice, and veggies and combine them all.

What Inspires Me– I have been inspired by the warm weather and by trying to get outside for as much of the month as possible. 

A crisp, fall morning by the water.

What I Accomplished– I’m really proud of the time I have devoted to reconnecting with friends and family and myself. The summer, especially towards the end, was super busy and I got out of my routine and I’m really glad to have gotten back into a good rhythm this past month. 

Books, Beach and Beyond is one of my favorite podcasts to listen to while I run

Goals from Last Month– I really wanted to establish new routines and spend more time with my hobbies and I definitely did that. I’m also proud of all the time I have spent catching up with friends.  Plus, I did some traveling too which was fun!

Some of the places I have run.

I also accomplished a goal of creating a photo album from my family’s trip to Italy. I made on back from when I went in 2019 and created an updated one. I was so happy with how it turned out.

My mom and I had a girl’s night in and my pup crashed the party.

I ended the month with a weekend getaway that felt very fall-like with rainy and chilly temperatures.

Goals for this Month– I am looking forward to fully being in fall mode. I’m excited for fall fests, Halloween, plus some fun activities sprinkled through the month. I am also looking forward to accomplishing things on my fall bucket list.

That’s a look into life lately. Fresh starts, getting back into routines and the start of fall. What has your September been like? Are you ready for the new month? Let me know in the comments below! Welcome October!

Categories
Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #88

Hello all!

Happy Friday! We made it through the first week of April. I hope you had a smooth and successful week and are ready for the first weekend of the month. The month of March was a mixed bag of weird weather, we had some really nice and sunny days in the 60s, and other days in the 30s and snow. Here’s hoping this next month brings more consistent temperatures-especially spring-like weather.

As always, I am linking up with  Erika and Andrea for another roundup of Friday Favorites. I’ve been doing some spring shopping, so I’ll be spreading out my favorite finds over the next few weeks, so you aren’t bombarded with them in one post. Let’s jump into some of my favorite things today!

Red pants– I finally made a trip to Old Navy to see if they had any fun spring finds. After lots of trying on clothes, I only left with a few items. But I did manage to snag these red pants that were on clearance. WIN! I tend to lean more towards a straight pant leg as opposed to a full or tight pant leg, especially in the office, but I really loved how these looked. These would be great for work or a business-casual setting. Even though they are a bold color, you can go with a simple color for a the top (like a black, blue, or cream) or with a busier top to balance them out. I’m looking forward to adding these to my rotation over the next few months. 

Everything Bagel Seasoning– I don’t have a Trader Joe’s near me, but whenever I am close to one, I always like to pop in to see what they have and try some unique foods and snacks. I always stock up on Everything Bagel seasoning. It is one of my favorite blends of seasonings and flavors. I add it to my chicken, pasta, toast, and eggs, etc. it adds just enough flavoring to spice up a meal without overpowering the dish. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a new bottle.

Bridgerton and Bath and Body Works– Did you see the new collaboration between Bath and Body Works and Bridgerton? These are two of my favorite things and I couldn’t be more happier to see a collaboration between them. I love all the scents that come with Bath and Body Works and now knowing candles, lotions, wall flowers and soaps were inspired by Bridgerton’s characters, places, and themes. I may have to buy some and put them away for when I need re-stock.

Cabrini– My family and I went to see Cabrini right before Easter and really enjoyed it. It tells the story of Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini and the work she did here in America with the poor and orphans. The movie talks about the challenges she faced, the obstacles she overcame and the lives she touched. I had learned about her growing up, but it was fascinating to see her ministry depicted in a full-length film. It was a long movie, so if you plan on seeing it, budget in time to watch. Definitely worth the watch, but you don’t have to go to the theaters to enjoy it.  

The Sweeney Sisters–The Sweeney Sisters was the second book that I’ve read by Lian Dolan. I read Lost and Found in Paris and really loved how she told the story, so I was eager to read another one of her books. This story follows three sisters as they cope with the death of their father only to learn they have a sister who was their neighbor growing up. The book is all about how they work through this new information and how the revelation brings them together. I really loved the themes of sisterhood, forgiveness and maturity that were found in the book. But my favorite part was the fact that one of the characters was named Elspeth. I have a unique name, so I am always surprised when I read or see my name out in the wild. There’s a new show on CBS called Elsbeth which always makes me smile even though it’s pronounced and spelled differently.  Overall, I really enjoyed the story and will be reading more of Dolan’s books.

That’s a look into what I’m loving this week, some recent buys, foods, and entertainment. If you are still recovering from Easter or Spring Break, what’s been on your radar?

Let me know if the comments below!

Happy Friday!

Categories
Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #76

Happy Friday friends! I hope you had a great week and are ready for the weekend. Maybe you have something fun planned whether it’s a date night, hanging with your girlfriends or tackling some house projects.

We are in a new year and that means lots of fresh starts and new beginnings which evident in today’s Friday Favorites. I also got some fun presents for Christmas, so I’ll be sharing those in the coming weeks too. As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea. for some new favorite things this week and year. 

New Lotion-Strawberry Snowflakes– The timing worked out perfectly that I needed a new scent as the new year rolled around. I got Strawberry Snowflakes lotion and body spray for Christmas, and I have really been enjoying the warm scent with a hint of sweetness. I like body sprays and lotions that have a bit of a sweet or refreshing scent, but that’s not too overpowering or strong. I don’t splurge too often on Bath and Body Works, but when I do, I make sure it’s during one of their major sales they have throughout the year. This has been a luxurious way to treat myself every day.

New Planner– I purchased my Simplified 2024 Yearly planner back in the fall, but just started using it last week and it has been a favorite of mine. Before the new year begins, I always like spending some time setting up my new planner with dates to remember, goals to follow and items to track. I made a few minor changes of how I plan to use my planner more efficiently this year and I’m eager to see if these new systems work. It feels so good to start the new year out with a clean slate and new planner. I also will be using their mini notebooks to keep track of notes and to-do’s that come up through the week as well.

New year, new planner

Near in the Night– I purchased the second devotional, Near in the Night from Emily Ley last year, but saved it to start at the start of the new year. I typically do my quiet time in the morning, but it has been nice to wind down with some reading and reflection at the end of the day too. It’s been a soothing way to get off my screen a bit earlier in the evening and read and unwind before I head to bed. Plus, I love the way Emily writes and have really enjoyed the scriptures she chose reflect on.

Libby– Speaking of reading, it’s no secret that reading is one of my favorite hobbies. I always read every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. I recently downloaded the Libby app, which allows you to check out EBooks and audiobooks from your local library. I prefer reading hardcover or paperback books as opposed to reading them on a screen, but I have found that if I have a book on my phone, I’m more apt to read it as opposed to scrolling through social media. I’m currently reading “The Senator’s Wife”, both the book and Libby have been favorites for this book lover.

Clutch Charger-I got a Clutch charger for Christmas and this has been a favorite tech device for me. This slim, portable charger attaches to the back of your cell phone with a magnetic ring and provides a fast charge to your cell phone. It isn’t big or bulky and it charges both as a device and your phone fast. I can’t wait to use this charger more when I travel more through the year. Plus, the pink color sparks joy for me too!

That’s a roundup of some of my favorite things from this past week and from the new year.

What’s something that has brought you joy this week? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Friday!

Categories
Fun Ways to Organize

Simplicity Challenge 2023

Hello all!

Happy February! New month, new start, new goals! Celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day and embracing winter are just a few things I plan to do to make the most out of another winter month. 

If you have been around here long enough, you may have picked up that I am a huge fan of Simplified, a planner company by Emily Ley. Every year, her team creates a Simplicity Challenge in January. It’s a list of tasks that take 15 minutes or so for each day of the month. These tasks cover everything from organizing your car, cleaning out a medicine cabinet, restocking a fridge, or writing down a list of meals that are easy to make on busy nights. 

You can find their Simplicity Challenge on their website, social media or inside your planner. 

A copy of the Simplicity Challenge in my Simplified Planner

When I was in college, I did the Simplicity Challenge and found it to be very helpful at the start of a year and when I was back at school. I adopted some of the skills suggestions in my life back and still use them today. Here’s my Simplicity Challenge from 2019.

Since it’s been a while since I completed a Simplicity Challenge I wanted to do it again.

I completed most of the tasks on the days they were assigned. Some I didn’t since I already incorporate them in my daily life. For example, one of the challenges is to a load of laundry a day. I already do that everyday so I didn’t necessarily have to do it. But there were a handful of things that I did do.

For example, day one is go through and collect any trash or clutter. Right after the holidays I had lots of extra clutter laying around so it was good to get rid of it. 

Goodbye clutter, hello clean!

I still live at home and that means sharing a lot of items including food. Cleaning out and organizing the fridge was much needed after the holidays especially lots of extra food, drinks, snacks and people around.

Clean and organized fridge for the new year.

A super easy task was cleaning out my purse. I keep it fairly organized but it’s always good to dump everything out, get rid of any trash and reorganize everything. 

Clean purse for a new week ahead.

Another task is to keep a long standing list of people’s birthdays and put it in your planner so it’s easy to add birthdays and anniversaries year to year. This was such a useful and helpful tool for remembering the important days.

A list of all the important dates and anniversaries.

Setting an alarm for very day is something I already do. I like to keep a consistent schedule and that means getting up at the same time on my days off too. It makes it easier on my body to get the same amount of sleep and I get more done when I don’t sleep in.

Sometimes my wake-up times are just a little early.

Cleaning off my computer and getting rid of old files was so helpful to do both on my work and personal computer. I spend a lot of time on my computers so getting rid of old and unneeded files was such a good feeling. 

Clean desktop on my personal computer.

I also cleaned out and organized my notes app. I use this app every day and I use a trick from Emily Ley by using three emojis for what each list is for, it makes it easy to find different notes.

Some of my most used notes.

These are just a few examples of all the tasks I completed. I love how these tasks are quick to accomplish they have you focus and simplify different areas of your life without getting overwhelmed. If you have completed the Simplicity Challenge, what were your favorites tasks and challenges? Let me know in the comments below!

Categories
Fabulous living

5 Years of Writing

5 years…every week for the past five years, I’ve sat down and opened my laptop and began to write. 

Some days, it was therapeutic to put into words what’s been on my mind, other days I got to talk about things I’m passionate about, like products, books, or movies.

 I’ve written about outfits I’ve put together and mixing and matching different pieces to keep things affordable.

I’ve written about how to keep your spaces clean whether it’s your dorm room, car, or daily planner.

I’ve written about trips I’ve taken, or bucket lists I’ve made and things I’ve accomplished. It’s amazing that just when I think so don’t have any more ideas, something new comes to mind. Over 350 posts and counting.

When I started my blog at the end of my freshmen year of college, I was looking for a creative outlet. I was homesick and I was searching for a hobby and decided why not write. My blog was a way to keep family members and friends in the loop about what I was doing and as a way to express myself.

A look at some of my first posts.

I looked forward to sharing different outfits and life hacks each week. As I grew up and matured, so did my blog. I changed the style and content as I made my way through college and graduated. If you have been following since the very beginning, you know there’s been changes with color schemes and the days I posted and even some of the topics. It’s been fun to look back and see how far I have come since May 2017.

Another throwback to one of my first outfits.

I learned balance with my blog as I started my first job. Every weekend I always looked forward to working on something creative and fun, especially as our world changed with the pandemic. Even with all the unknowns and at sometimes darkness, my blog was a bright spot for me and hopefully for others. 

From college to my first day of work

I’ve learned a lot about myself these past five years. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be vulnerable and share what’s on your mind, whether it’s about eating alone or transitioning from college to working. I’ve learned the importance of making time for yourself and finding joy every day, whether it’s through journaling or walks or cooking.

Enjoying the simple things in life like apple picking has been something I’ve leaned into more these past few years.

While I’ve learned a lot so far, I know I still have a ways to go. I’m excited to see what this next year brings. My hope is that it brings more life lessons, more memories, and most importantly, little moments that bring joy every day.

 To those who read my blog posts when I started writing them sitting in my college dorm room, thank you for sticking with me! And, to those who started following along as I now write them on weekend with my dog curled up on my lap back home, thank you for stopping by.

I hope my blog brings you a little bit of joy, like it does for me every day.

Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and taking life one day at a time.

xoox

Elspeth

Categories
Fabulous living

Five Favorite Things

Hello hello! Happy Wednesday! I hope you are week’s are going well. I don’t know about you, but I’m SO ready for spring. We had a 70 degree Sunday last week and it was absolutely beautiful. I got out for a walk with no snow on the ground and got to soak up some sunshine. Even that taste of sunshine has me craving spring even more.

I always love my routines and rhythms, but I always like to try new things. Today I’m sharing five things I’ve been loving. They are a mix of products, snacks, make up, and fun things. 

  • Simplified Wellness Journal (one of my New Year’s resolutions this year was to focus more on my well-being and health and wellness. In addition to working out, I’m putting more emphasis on eating right, getting enough sleep and making sure I’m more well-rounded for my physical and mental health). The Simplified journal helps keep everything organized and help you track your workouts, how much water you drink, what you are eating and how you are taking care of yourself. If you are looking to put wellness first, this is a great resource, but you can easily keep track of your fitness and health goals in a regular notebook or journal.
I use my Wellness Journal every day
And a look at the inside
  • For makeup lovers: Since I wear a lot of makeup for my job, I stick with what I know and what works for me. However, I do like to change it up and try new things. I got this lipstick from Covergirl at Target and I love the dark pink color, It’s long lasting and I love how it goes on.
My new favorite color

  • For snacks: I always like to try different snacks and trail mixes. I saw this smores bark from Target and thought it looked fun and tasty and boy was I correct. I love anything with chocolate and the crunch of the graham crackers, the only problem is you want to be careful not to eat them all in one sitting. Haha!
A tasty favorite!!!
  • For technology lovers: Last week I did a post about my Apple Watch and what I loved about it. Since I wear it all the time even at work I purchased a few bands to switch out for dressier occasions. I bought a gold and a silver band that really dresses up the watch.
A look at the gold watch band.

A look at the silver band.
  • For shoe lovers: I love a good heel and since I wear them all the day, I love a sturdy heel too. I have been searching for years for a blue heel. I wear a lot of blue, from dresses, to pants and skirts. I have been searching for a blue heel for years and I finally found a pair at DSW. Here they are! They are very comfortable, sturdy and affordable. They also have them in different colors if you want to change out the colors.

That’s just a few things I’m loving right now. Definitely a mix of fun things and affordable too. What are some things you are loving right now?

Categories
Currently

Currently #25

Hey gang!

Happy Wednesday!

How was your first month of 2022? For me, this month seemed to drag. I got a lot done at the beginning of the month as I got back into my routines and rhythms after the holidays. But then came the snow and the cold and high Covid cases, so I really hunkered down. I’m looking forward to the warmer days and lower case numbers but until then, I’m making the most of warm days inside, cozy clothes and trying to get fresh air and go on walks when I can. 

Here’s a look into the first month of 2022!

What I’m up to: I have been doing lots of cleaning, decluttering, and organizing. This month has been all about organizing my life mentally and physically. I’ve been using my planner more for short and long term thoughts and projects. I have also been cleaning out closets, cars, drawers, and more getting things refreshed for the new year. I even have been making trips to donate things which makes me feel great. Besides cleaning, I’ve been all about getting back into routines from last year and adding some new habits in my daily life.

I’ve also been doing a lot of baking to cope with the cold days.

What I’m wearing:  It has been cold here. Temperatures in the single digits with lots of wind. For work, it has been lots of pants and warm sweaters or blouses and blazers since you never know where you may end up. Plus, you can never have too many layers. For my off-days, I have been enjoying leggings, boots, big sweaters, and heavy coats for running around or just hanging around the house.

What I’m reading:  New year, new books! I started Januray off by reading an inside look at Grey’s Anatomy. As an avid fan of the show, I loved this book and found it super interesting. Then I also read, this book about home design and styling. Another fabulous read that will give you lots of inspiration for interior and exterior design. 

What I’m Watching: I have been enjoying the return of This is Us especially since its in its final season. I also really have been loving Tidying up with Marie Kondo on Netflix. I know I am late to the party but I love it.

What I’m Loving: I love the fresh start of the new year. We have seen a lot of snow fall and there’s nothing better than enjoying a warm drink like tea or hot coco and having a smooth start to the day. I have also been enjoying lighting the fire place at the end of a long day. 

Nothing better than a cozy morning and a warm drink

What Inspires Me: I am always inspired my setting New Year’s Resolutions and Goals. I am inspired by fresh starts and new beginnings. There’s no better feeling than lighting a new candle, a clean desk and fresh planner to kick off the new year. I also am excited to get back into my new routines and establish some new ones too. 

I went on a coffee date with a friend and loved the wallpaper. So cute!

What I accomplished: I had a very successful Christmas with my immediate family and I got to see some extended family too. I got enjoy some family time and do some activities too. Although, I  had to work, I’m still very grateful that I got to see my family and still carry on holiday traditions. 

Going skiing with my family was a fun activity over Christmas
We also went to see the Van Gogh exhibit around Christmas. It was so beautiful and interesting.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month This past month was all about starting the year on the right foot and I did that. I was thrilled to get my new Simplified planner all set up. I also started my new year’s goals and resolutions which I’m very pleased with how they are going. It’s those little things every day that make a huge difference. I can’t wait to see what this year has in store an how I can learn and grow.

New year, new planner set-up.

Goals for the New Month:  Next month, I want to do my best to get outside more, especially for walks when I can. My friend Sydney gave me the idea to schedule time for “Me Dates”, essentially it’s about carving out time to do something for you, whether it’s going to a coffee shop to read a book, taking yourself to a movie or going for a solo walk, it’s all about taking time for yourself. I want to make that a priotity for myself this year. I also am looking forward to celebrating love with Valentine’s Day next month.

That’s a look into my life today. How has 2022 been treating you?

Categories
Fabulous living

2022 New Year’s Resolutions

Happy New Year friends! I hope you had a wonderful New Year’s!

As much as I love the holidays, there’s just something special about the fresh start of the new year. 

During the week between Christmas and New Year I always like to set-up my Simplified planner for the new year and reflect on the passing year and set up my resolutions for the new year. I always like to see how far I’ve come and look ahead to what I want to accomplish in the new year. Here’s a recap from last year’s resolutions.

Each year I come up a word or phrase to live by….my phrase for 2022 is….Be the Best Version of Myself…I truly found my rhythm last year and I want to continue to cultivate my routines and lifestyles and grow in this new year.

Out with the old and in with the new…getting my new planner set up.

From mottos to goals…I always like to set a few realistic goals for myself each year and this year is no different.


I decided to break up my goals into different categories this year. The four categories that I want to work on are: Physical, Spiritual, Professional and Lifestyle.

Physical– I love getting my daily workouts in and fitness and health are a big priority for me. This year, I want to work more on healthy eating. I have a major sweet tooth, but I want to incorporate more veggies in my daily meals and be more mindful about what I’m putting in my body. My goal for my physical health is to put more greens on my plate. 

Spiritual– I always try to make my faith a priority and I want to continue to do that in the new year. Besides going to church every week I want to carve more time every morning for prayer and time with Jesus. My spiritual goal is spend more intentional time with God every day.

Professional– I want to continue to work on my craft and skills at work. This year I want to get more creative with my storytelling and writing. My goal this year is to really up my game with how I shoot video and tell stories every day at work.

Lifestyle– As far as my goals for my lifestyle goes for this upcoming year, I want to use more sustainable and recycled products in my daily life. From using recycled bags while shopping, to using plastic containers for my lunches. I want to waste less and do small acts every day to my part to help conserve materials.

I decided to work on four areas of my life this year in addition to continue to flourish in my routines and daily life. 

I can’t wait to see what this year holds and all the adventures that it entails as well as see how I grow personally and professionally.

That’s a look at my 2022 New Year’s Resolutions.

What are some of your goals for the year ahead?

Categories
Fun Ways to Organize

Getting Ahead of the Game

Hi guys! Happy Wednesday! I hope your week has been going well. I’m in full on Christmas mode over here! From shopping to listening to music and having my décor up. This time of year is always fun but also busy.

There’s so much to get done in such a short amount of time, it can be a lot to keep track of which is why I always like to stay ahead of the game by planning ahead. Whether it’s the holiday season or a random week in July, planning ahead ensures my week goes a little smoother.

In a world of chaos, there’s only so much you can control which is why taking a few minutes every week makes my days and nights smoother. 

Here’s three ways that I prep to get ahead in the game.

Weekly To Do: Every Sunday I make a weekly to do in my planner. A tip I got from Emily Ley on how to best use both a digital and paper planner, if you use both. She recommends to put all your important dates, information, events etc. in your digital calendar. So whenever you have an appointment or something that needs to go on the calendar, you put it in your digital calendar so it’s always accessible. Then every week (or me it’s Sundays), I transfer everything from my digital calendar to my paper planner, I also add any to-dos to my planner and extra notes.

A look at my planner (and old page that’s pretty generic)

Meal Prep: Another way I prepare for the week ahead is by lunch planning. Since I eat dinner at home, I only meal plan for my lunches in advance. Sometimes, meal planning is buying some boxed salads, and setting aside pretzels or fruit for my lunches. Other times it’s making baked chicken and veggies and portioning them out for each day of the week. No matter what the form is, I always spending time getting my meals organized for the week so I can just grab and go for each day.

An example of one of my meals that I make for work.

Outfit Plan: Another way I save time and plan ahead is by planning my outfits for the week. Again, I spend 10 minutes checking the weather and planning what to wear from clothing to shoes and accessories. I can change an outfit if need be, but for the most part I have them all lined up and just grab it for each day. I started to plan out my outfits in college and it was a huge time saver. It also makes my mornings go much smoother.

Outfit planning

Those are just three ways that I plan ahead which makes my days and weeks run smoother. What things do you do for streamline your daily lives especially in busy seasons?

Categories
Fun Ways to Organize

Goal Setting

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday.

As we make our way through September, I always feel a sense of nostalgia of back to school and being back in the classroom. As much as I love my job, I sometimes do miss being in the classroom and being a student, but it’s all a part about growing up.

I’m a big believer in setting goals and to-do lists. Even as I write this post, I have a to list of things I want to get done while I’m in work. 

I found it helpful to write out things I want to accomplish whether they are big or small. Plus, there’s always a sense of satisfaction when it comes to marking things off a list and seeing hard work pay off. 

Here’s my tips on how to accomplish goals (big and small):

  • Write it down

I find it helpful to write down daily, weekly and monthly goals. In my planner, I always write down my goals for each day and because I have a weekly layout, I can see what things I want to accomplish across the seven days. I always use Emily Ley’s Simplified planner. This helps me stay on track for the days, but in case I don’t get something done on a Monday, I have the next day to get it done. As far as big plans goes, writing down big plans or goals on a post-it note or in a journal where you will see it, keeps it in front of your mind always. 

A look at my planner
  • Set realistic goals

I’m all about following your dreams and having the world be your oyster, but I also know that you need to work hard to get there. Here’s an example: if you want to be a performer, that can’t happen overnight. But if you take lessons, practice, perform at small venues, share your music online and on social media and network, then the dreams of being a performer could become a reality.  Dreams are possible if you set goals to get from one step to another. Dreams take years to accomplish, but if you get goals to get there then it’s possible. I love seeing how accomplishing small goals can lead to big changes. 

  • Allow your Goals to Change

It’s great to have a plan, but don’t be afraid to be flexible if your plan changes. I filled out a journal/book after I graduated college and it was called “In Five Years”, it was all about where you wanted to see yourself in 5 years. It was exciting to see what dreams and plans I had and where I saw myself in the future, but I also know that life happens and plans change. I think it’s important to set those big goals but also be open to the future and the possibilities it could hold.

I’m a very Type A, OCD person, so I’m all about staying on top of to-do list and goals. I think setting and accomplishing goals is a great way to achieve your dreams while also being realistic. 

What are your tips of accomplishing your goals?