Starting a workout journey for the first time can be an incredibly fun and exhilarating experience. As amazing as it is to dive into a new solo adventure with some weights or in a yoga class, you might find that partaking in workouts with a friend can really make the time pass by (and give you an accountability buddy). Sharing your workout progression, learning together and even keeping one another motivated can be a wonderful method of staying on track. It’s also much harder to let someone else down when you’ve committed to a particular fitness goal.
But how do you get your friend on board with your workout routine? Sure, you’ve discovered the magic of exercise but who knows if they’re going to be on the same page? Maybe your friend’s schedule doesn’t quite match up, or they’re nervous to get started, or perhaps your workout styles don’t quite mesh.
Sometimes it’s not as simple as sending a text that says, “wanna join me at the gym?” Here are some tips that might help warm you up to the big ask and find yourself an accountability partner!
Plant The Seed
Start by casually mentioning your workouts in conversation, like how you enjoyed your morning run or how energized you felt after a recent yoga class. By subtly integrating fitness into your discussions, you’re planting the seed without making it seem like you’re trying to recruit them or hint that they need to be in better shape.
Share your positive experiences. For example, you might suggest that you’ve been sleeping so much better than before you started working out, and how you’d love to share in this with them. Of course, you can be direct about wanting them to join too; a nice introduction can help them warm to the idea.
You Can Highlight Shared Interests
If you take the time to find common ground between your friend’s interests and potential workout activities, you’re sure to find something you both like, which might extend outside a gym facility. If your friend is into nature, perhaps you could suggest a hike or walk and take some nice photos.
If your friend is into music, a high-energy dance class might be right up their alley. Maybe they like bodyweight workouts, which is where HOTWORX shines. It’s all about matching that sense of connection and having fun, instead of feeling like you’re signing up for a military boot camp class.
Keep An Open Invitation
Instead of making it a one-time offer, extend an open invitation for your friend to join you whenever they feel like it. You can make the invite less about having someone to join you, and more about spending more time with them. Keeping that invitation open can help them ask you about it when they feel ready, even if that’s a year from now. Perhaps they’ll be open to coming to an intro session, as these are usually free and there’s much less to lose. This way, your friend is sure to give it a go.
So go on and invite your friend to your gym or workout routine–the worst that can happen is they’ll say no, but maybe (just maybe!) you’ll have a new buddy to help you keep your fitness goals in check!
Photo by LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash
]]>Ahhh, the world of old-school blogging when influencers treated their sites like online journals. In some ways, nothing has changed except that blogs that were once only read by our nearest and dearest now have the power to reach much wider audiences.
That is GREAT news for bloggers who can finally make a difference and have their voices heard. But there comes a time in every blogger’s life when they need to ask themselves– how much is too much?
After all, times are hard and if you’re sharing your experiences, you should share the hard stuff, too. But, as anyone who’s experienced blogger burnout will tell you, boundaries matter. The question is, how do you know if a hard experience you lived through would make good blog content, or if it should be kept off the page entirely?
Are there other people involved?
Perhaps the main compass for this is simply whether or not other people are involved. For instance, if your kids are struggling in school, or if your partner’s lost a loved one, would it really be right to put that stuff online? Probably not. You may even end up insulting someone, or accidentally speaking for them, by posting about those things in too much detail. That’s not to say that you can’t mention in passing that you’re having a hard time if it’s relevant to another post. But you certainly shouldn’t spill full stories or personal details.
Are there lessons to learn?
No one wants to read a post about hard times without any particular outcome–that’s just depressing. Ask yourself if there are lessons to learn from the experience. For instance, if you’re struggling with your mental health, why don’t you write about your experience with getting help to encourage others to do the same? Or, if you’ve lost a loved one, perhaps you could write about things like dealing with grief, or getting through difficult processes like funeral planning or applying for an ein for an estate. These are practical, applicable tips that can help you to get this stuff out, while also giving advice for readers going through the same.
Would it be disingenuous not to mention something?
If you blog about your life, then you may also want to consider whether it would be disingenuous not to mention when you’re struggling. Of course, that’s not to say you’re ever indebted to share things that you don’t feel comfortable revealing, especially about big topics like health and death. But, if you’re posting about your days and painting a carefree happy picture, then it could start feeling dishonest. While you don’t have to share the full picture even then, if you feel like you’re falling into that trap, you may want to find ways to mention what’s happening, revealing to your trusting audience the good and the bad.
The battle of what to share online will always rage, and the simple answer is that you should share what you’re comfortable with. But, if you’re torn about whether to share a hard experience or not, these tips might help you decide.
]]>
If you continuously worry about your well-being and whether or not you have some mysterious disease (stay off the Google, my friend), you might be suffering from health anxiety and hypochondria. While it’s only natural to show concern for your health, it can definitely cause you unnecessary stress if you worry about it all the time. Read on to find some ways that you can feel less stressed about your health.
Visiting the doctor or dentist can be intimidating, especially if it’s been a while since you last had a checkup. But how else will you know if you need treatment if you don’t go? Don’t worry about them scolding you, because they want you to get better, so it’s always best to get checkups as regularly as possible to catch any issues and get treatment before things get out of hand.
Healthy eating is an obvious way to feel better about your overall health and well-being. But it can still be tricky to switch your habits. Instead of buying chocolate or candy at the store, look for healthier alternatives like nuts or dried fruit. You can also make an effort to add vegetables and salads to your meals instead of only eating meat and potatoes every night (as they say, variety is the spice of life!).
Like healthy eating, exercise will help you feel less stressed about your health and improve your stress levels overall. But too many people find excuses not to exercise. They assume they don’t have the time or they simply don’t like sports or activities. The reality is that you will never feel better about your health unless you find some way to exercise. You don’t need to bench press your body weight or run a marathon. All you need is to be more active. Walk around the neighborhood or jog to the store rather than take the car.
Your mental health can also impact how you perceive your overall well-being. Many bad habits affect your mental health, including spending too much time on social media or your phone. Finding out what affects your mental health most can help you look for alternatives to distract you and introduce you to more positive activities that improve your mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety.
Speaking of bad habits, you could also want to quit smoking or drinking because you know how much they affect your health. If only it was that easy, though. It can be tricky to change your behavior, but it’s imperative if you want to find yourself in a healthier position. There are services and programs available to help you quit bad habits and help you live a better, healthier life.
Some health anxiety is good for you. It means you are more aware of your health and well-being and you should take steps to prevent things from getting worse. However, some health anxiety can also make you stop in your tracks and fail to take action. These tips will help you manage your stress better to guarantee a healthier and happier life.
Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash
]]>It has been a dog’s age since I’ve posted. I find myself in a quiet house with a cup of coffee, a Perfect Bar, sunlight streaming in through the blinds, enveloped in a blanket on the couch. Complete bliss. Mila will wake any minute, but in the meantime, time to type.
The past few weeks have been a blur. Mila fractured her collarbone falling down the stairs, we all got hit with Covid–again!, a work project has sucked up a lot of my time and energy, and I’ve missed travel so much I could cry. I’m trying to stay on top of bills while paying off debt and if anyone has advice or financial people to follow who help with this specifically, please drop in the comments
Anyway, let’s carry on to today’s currently list!
Thinking: About what to add to Easter baskets, what’s on my plate today, my brother’s visit at the end of the month, our trip to the doctor this evening for X-rays on Mila’s collarbone, looming birthdays
Enjoying: The stillness. The feeling of not being bothered and able to do what I need
Feeling: Good about the day ahead
Wearing: A nightgown (BUAHAHAHAH) and fleece pants. Bryan says I look like a grandma but I don’t care. It’s comf
Needing: Probably more coffee at some point
Wanting: A new wardrobe. I went to a wake last night for my best friend’s grandma (what an incredible life she lived, to 97) and I had no suitable pants that fit. So I wedged my butt into black work pants circa 2013. Some days I stare into my closet and think to myself there is nothing in here I like, or that fits properly, or sparks any kind of joy. I need to fix that
Listening: To the birds chirp outside. Hello, Spring!
Making: Eh, can’t think of a dang thing so leaving this one blank today
Eating: Pumpkin Pie flavored Perfect Bars. I always stock up on these when their site has their 40% off sales
Drinking: Coffee with sweet cream creamer (is that like the department of redundancy department?)
Happy hump day, you guys. Hope it’s a good one!
Photo by Євгенія Височина on Unsplash
]]>Good morning, sweet friends. Hopping in with a short + sweet currently list because 2024 is blessing us with an extra day of the month that just won’t quit. Why is the shortest month of the year so friggin’ long? Also why can’t I ever seem to recover from this never-ending snot fest? Anyway, let’s dive in!
Thinking: I actually hate this one because my mind has been racing lately. A LOT of to-dos on my list each day. Life: I’m thinking about my parents and hoping they are okay. My dad just announced his retirement which I think was a good move, but I’ve noticed a bit of a decline cognitively from my mom and I hope they both can find activities that keep their brains sharp. Also thinking about this launch that we’re doing for work and anxious about how it will perform
Enjoying: Peace and quiet. No more Bryan in the home (he started his new job at the beginning of the year and it’s been nice to get a routine back). Also ever since Mila broke her collarbone she has been really EXTRA. Not sure if she has way too much energy and not the means to expel it, but she’s been seeking attention in not the best ways and it’s been tough
Feeling: Not so great. My nose won’t stop running and I swear the cold and flu season never seems to go away this winter
Wearing: Form-fitting jeans. Oversized boyfriend sweatshirt from American Eagle. Messy bun
Needing: Another coffee. Someone to help me with my wardrobe. A manicure. Clear nasal passages lol
Wanting: Manicure. For dogs to live forever (did you see the tearful clip of John Stewart this week about his pitbull?? OOOFA, hit me in the feels)
Listening: To new Beyonce song “Texas Hold ‘Em” on repeat
Making: Plans. At some point dinner
Eating: Nothing at the moment. I can’t believe it either
Drinking: All the tea and fluids
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
]]>Photo by Andrea Piacquadio.
Now and again, we all experience negative thoughts and the occasional feeling of disappointment, but did you know that actually entertaining the mindset of failure can threaten your mental health? Unkind thoughts that appear to make you feel you are a “loser” can limit your ability to succeed. Apart from the tendency to bother you with sleepless nights, a poor outlook / mentality can prevent you from making giant leaps during the day. Continuous thoughts of failure can become bad habits when left unchecked. More often than not, bad feelings leave terrible damage to your mental welfare, resulting in anxiety and depression. They can also diminish the value of your potential and magnify your missteps. One major habit associated with a failure mindset is listening to an inner voice that discourages you from aiming for success; block it out to protect your mental health.
Social media overuse can promote anxiety and low self-esteem, especially among the younger generation. However, the digital canker can also create a myriad of mental health disorders for adults. According to the Telegraph, a recent survey of 1,500 X and Facebook users discovered that 62% of participants experienced feelings of jealousy and inadequacy due to comparing themselves with other users. A further 30% admitted that using only the two social media networks made them feel quite lonely. Unfortunately, spending too much time on social media platforms can be dangerous for your mental health, so limit your time on social media apps. Psychiatric News recently published a study that linked social media addiction to higher risks of depression and anxiety.
Smartphone overuse can spell disaster for your mental health, even if you don’t use them a lot on social media. Today’s mobile devices come with a variety of apps, messaging tools, and entertainment resources that can trigger positive feelings when used for rewarding activities. However, the same gadgets can cause FOMO (fear of missing out), especially if you can’t stop checking your device every minute. Some mental health professionals fear that smartphones may cause a variety of addictions, resulting in users compulsively checking for notifications and updates. According to the Journal of Affective Disorders, uncontrolled use of digital devices can exacerbate symptoms of depression, chronic stress, anxiety, and low esteem. A lack of good news in notifications and a constant flow of distressing news coverage can magnify depression as well so it’s important that you make it a point to limit screen time.
A messy residential environment can also affect your mental health in diverse ways. Clutter stops you from living your best life at home, whether it’s in the kitchen, bedroom, or living room. It can also increase anxiety and hopelessness while reducing productivity and motivation. Furthermore, a messy home can make it hard to focus on your tasks. Declutter your space to reduce stress and improve hygiene. Tackling the mess during your free time is a good strategy to avoid feeling overwhelmed. You can start by picking a small area that matters to your well-being, blasting inspirational music, and getting to it. Those who are low on energy can choose to set a timer that reminds them to take a break every 20 minutes.
Poor sleep quality is another bad habit to avoid if you want to enjoy good mental health. Sleep is a wonderful source of emotional and physical resilience, so having enough of it is beneficial. For starters, it lets your brain and body recover from difficulties, making it easier to overcome the challenges of tomorrow. You may think missing sleep for one or two days is not a big deal but the habit can greatly impact your mental health. Studies show that individuals with poor mental health often sleep poorly. The Sleep Health Foundation found out that 60-90% of patients with depression also experience insomnia. According to the Harvard Mental Health Letter, treating sleep disorders can help relieve mental health symptoms. As a tip, prepare your room so it’s conducive for sleep. While you’re at it, put your smart devices away, and avoid eating heavy foods / drinking coffee before bed.
An inactive lifestyle isn’t only bad for your waistline but also your mental health. Psychcentral views exercise as nature’s best mood enhancer. Regular physical activity alleviates depression by releasing endorphins and other feel-good chemicals, creating a calming effect and suppressing immune system chemicals that encourage depression. Hitting the gym or working out at home can distract your mind from worries and improve social interaction, which benefits your mental health. On the other hand, a lack of exercise can promote obesity, which can increase your risk of heart disease and negatively impact your self-esteem.
Fortunately, the right exercise can help drop the excess weight if you are dealing with obesity. If your weight loss efforts aren’t bringing the desired results and you need additional support, consider checking online for the best bariatric surgeons near you, to determine if you are ready for weight loss surgery. However, it’s worth noting that bad exercise habits can ruin your mental health, too. Examples include exercising irregularly, over-exercising, and doing one type of exercise. Consider working with a professional trainer to get the most out of your routines.
Bad posture and uncontrolled anger
Bad posture can impact your spine, mental, and overall health. Fewer symptoms of depression have been associated with a healthy posture. According to studies, individuals with better postures feel proud of themselves and have a better mood. Everything works perfectly when your body is in good shape, and this makes you feel less tired. Uncontrolled anger is another culprit regarding poor mental health. Generally, those who feel guilty tend to have anger issues; meanwhile, uncontrolled rage can eat you alive and ruin your relationship without your notice.
Although changing these negative habits won’t happen overnight, you can gradually improve your mental health and set goals to do something healthy every day.
]]>Good morning my sweet ones! I hope everyone is enjoying the season, the snow (if you have it where you live), cold nights with warm socks, fuzzy blankets, and good books. I have really been leaning into hibernation mode lately for good or for worse but! I’ve also been livening up my social calendar so all is not entirely lost. Anyway, let’s jump into the happy moments from the week, shall we?
***
Do you love to travel? So many of us do, and yet it’s not something we reguarly make time for. You should be able to do the things that make you happy, and if traveling brings you joy, it’s time to find a way to do just that. In this post, we’ll take a look at this topic, and give you some ideas so you can make travel a reality this year.
Photo by Porapak Apichodilok.
Go As Often As You Can
The first thing that you should think about doing is going as often as you can. If you like to plan your next trip while you vacation (lucky you! I’m jelly lol), then you should save between trips so you can go as often as you like. If you feel like the travel bug is never really satisfied and you’re not getting what you want out of life, then it’s time to schedule your trips in advance (which gives you something to look forward to!).
There are always ways you can go on a budget holiday if you miss being abroad, so if money is the issue, there are always ways around that.
Work While You Travel
You could potentially work while you travel if you like to be abroad more often than not. Look into becoming a travel nurse, or something similar that allows you to travel the world helping people. Or you might want to become a landscape photographer and travel the world taking pictures of pretty places you find.
If you are able to work while you travel, that can take a lot of stress out of paying for things as you are working while you’re out there. Of course, you have to remember that you are there to do a job, but on your off days, you get to explore which means you get the best of both worlds.
Don’t Be Afraid To Go To Random Places
The path less traveled can lead to the greatest discoveries. We know that it’s scary to go somewhere entirely new, but how else are you going to know if you like it there? Don’t let fear keep you from experiencing some amazing places if you can help it, because you will miss out if you do.
If traveling is your passion, figure out a way to make your dreams a reality. When all is said and done, you are the one who has to live your life, so it’s time you started looking into things that make you happy.
And really, is there anything sweeter than waking up in a new city, eyes full of adventure and heart filled with excitement? I think not <3
]]>Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
I am publishing this post as a stark reminder that I pay for a gym membership and I do not actively visit. It is a travesty and I am absolutely without doubt planning to do something about that this year. I hate wasting money but also, I don’t like missing out on the opportunity to get back into shape. And frankly, the holidays have taken their toll. Are you a member of your local gym, and how frequently do you go? Do you visit with a friend, go by yourself, take classes, try the same machines each week? Let me know your fitness routine in the comments below!
***
The start of a new year is a great time to join a gym. But is a gym really the best workout environment for you? This post delves into some of the pros and cons of joining a gym so that you can decide whether it’s the right decision for you.
PRO: You get access to top quality equipment
A good gym will contain a range of high quality equipment–the likes of which most people can’t afford to buy themselves or simply don’t have space for. You don’t have to clean this equipment or maintain it. This is arguably the biggest benefit of joining a gym.
PRO: You get access to classes and training
Some gyms like Fitness 19 host an array of workout classes ranging from boot camps to pilates. These classes are free or discounted as a member, allowing you to try out all kinds of new exercises. On top of this, gyms give you access to personal trainers you can pay to provide personalized one-on-one workouts.
CON: You have to leave the house (though whether or not this is a con is debatable ha!)
Some people find it easier to motivate themselves to exercise at home. Finding the time to travel to and from a gym could be difficult if you lead a busy life or if you have no gyms in your local area.
CON: Membership fees can be expensive
Gym memberships aren’t cheap. If you’re already living on a tight budget, you may find that you can’t afford gym fees. Other forms of exercise don’t cost anything and could be better suited to you.
PRO: Money can be a good motivator
Of course, knowing that you’re paying so much money per month can also be a good motivator to keep you exercising–you’ll feel that you need to attend the gym regularly to make the fees worthwhile.
PRO: You can train with friends and meet new people
While many people go to the gym to work out alone, gyms can also be a great social environment. You can go to the gym with friends or family members and motivate each other to exercise. You may also be able to meet new people through classes.
CON: Some gymgoers can be annoying
Some people have no gym etiquette. They hog equipment, give unsolicited advice, or try to strike up a conversation when you’re in the middle of a set. Almost all gyms will have that one annoying person who always turns up when you’re there.
CON: You may feel too socially conscious to train
Gyms are not a good place for those who feel self-conscious working out in front of others. Of course, unless you get used to doing it, you’ll never conquer this fear. A gym may be too much of a first step for some people, but this post at Healthline offers some great advice on how to beat gym anxiety.
]]>***
Car ownership can be rewarding but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially if you don’t have the right guidance. That’s why it’s vital to conduct thorough online research beforehand, as studies reveal that potential buyers spend 59% of their time researching, researching, and more researching. This will help you make an informed decision and identify the best vehicle to suit your needs. It also helps to know some of the potential challenges you could face along the way in order to prepare adequately. A few of these are highlighted below.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Car financing can be a significant hurdle when purchasing a vehicle. Although many first-time car buyers consider securing loans for that purchase, they may come with conditions. For example, your credit history will have a significant influence on whether you can get the loan or not. You will be eligible for favorable loan terms if your credit history is untainted and unquestionable. A credit score of 670 or higher will put you in a better position to secure that much-needed loan.
Meanwhile, other factors like downpayment, interest rates, monthly repayments, and loan duration will be sources of financing frustrations. Make sure to shop around for better financing options if you can’t purchase the car outright. Financial institutions like banks and credit unions have different rates and terms that may suit your needs. It’s prudent to assess them before making a final decision.
Selecting the right vehicle depends on many factors centered around your preferences, where to buy, and lifestyle. The automotive industry is a vast market, which can make it challenging to choose from the sea of car models and makes. However, during your car search phase, you can find reliable online resources like Edmunds to provide valuable insights on cars, comprehensive reviews, and professional advice.
Remember that it’s always a smart move to include elements like fuel efficiency, safety features, and overall performance in your car search. Many first-time vehicle buyers often make the mistake of buying cars based only on aesthetics. That can lead to buyer’s remorse when they realize they could have chosen a much better vehicle. Avoid this by conducting extensive research with the right factors in mind.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska
A car’s selling price is usually not the same as the cost of ownership. There are additional expenses and fees you should be mindful of before making any financial commitments. These include taxes, registration fees, dealership charges, and others, which can easily add up before you know it. Beyond the purchase, you’ll also be responsible for insurance, maintenance, unavoidable repairs, and so on. The entire ownership experience can be an unexpected financial strain if you fail to find out more about the additional costs. As a result, you may be in an unfavorable financial position if the cost of car ownership outweighs your current monthly expenditure. Therefore, you must be certain about your budget and financial strength before making an investment decision, like buying a car.
]]>