#taking the time for ​self reflection and making necessary improvements and changes in habits / lifestyle and growing from that behavior/

[enrapture]

You attract what you put out. ♻️

[earthyaries]

WAYS U CAN PLEASE SATURN ACCORDING TO UR SATURN PLACEMENT ♄

1H/ARIES SATURN: RESPECT URSELF. DO NOT ALTER UR BOUNDARIES TO BE LIKED. SELF IMPROVEMENT. PUT EFFORT INTO UR BODY/APPEARANCE. WORKOUT / BE ACTIVE. HEALTHY COMPETITION. PRACTICE OFTEN. BE CONFIDENT BUT NOT ABOVE OTHERS. SLOW DOWN. SELF GROWTH. DELIBERATE ACTIONS.

2H/TAURUS SATURN: DEVELOP STRONG VALUES. DO NOT UNDERMINE URSELF. QUALITY OVER QUANTITY. INTENTIONAL SPENDING. HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD. TRY NOT TO OVERINDULGE ; TRY NOT TO WASTE. STOP SELF SABOTAGING. NO SELF DEPRECATING. APPRECIATE WHAT U HAVE. EXPRESS GRATITUDE. DONATE WHAT U CAN.

3H/GEMINI SATURN: THINK BEFORE U SPEAK ; SPEAK LESS THAN U DESIRE. STOP OVERSHARING. FOCUS ON UR CRAFT ; GET RID OF THE DISTRACTIONS. POWER IN THE TONGUE. PERSONAL MOTTOS. STAND FOR WHAT IS MORAL ; BE WELL INFORMED. HAVE HARD CONVOS WHEN NECESSARY. BE A SUPPORTIVE FRIEND. STOP COMPLAINING. FIND SOLUTIONS. ADAPT & OVERCOME.

4H/CANCER SATURN: CREATE BOUNDARIES & STICK TO THEM. BE OF SERVICE TO OTHERS WITHOUT SELF SACRIFICE. DO NOT BE OVERLY SELFISH. EXPRESS UR NEEDS. TAKE CARE OF UR MENTAL HEALTH. EMOTIONAL REGULATION. SELF CARE. BE SELECTIVE OF UR INNER CIRCLE. POUR INTO UR LOVED ONES. TREAT OTHERS WITH KINDNESS. KEEP UR LIVING SPACE CLEAN.

5H/LEO SATURN: LET GO OF SELF DOUBT. BRING UR VISION TO LIFE. MASTER UR CRAFT. BELIEVE IN URSELF & WORK TOWARDS UR GOALS. GET RID OF UR NEED FOR OUTSIDE APPROVAL. LOOK OUT FOR THE CHILDREN ; BE THE PERSON U NEEDED GROWING UP. WORK HARD, PLAY HARD. DELAYED GRATIFICATION.

6H/VIRGO SATURN: FOLLOW A ROUTINE. HEALTHY HABITS. STRUCTURE. KEEP UR SPACES ORGANIZED ; DE-CLUTTER. BE A FRIEND TO ANIMALS. TAKE GOOD CARE OF UR PET/S. PUT IN THE WORK EVERY DAY. OFFER A HELPING HAND. HONOR UR OWN TIME & ENERGY ; DO NOT ENGAGE IN ONE-SIDED RELATIONS.

7H/LIBRA SATURN: MAKE UR OWN DECISIONS. TAKE ACCOUNTABILITY. CRACK DOWN ON CO-DEPENDENCY ; AVOID SELF ISOLATION. LONGTERM RELATIONS. BE THE BIGGER PERSON. FORGIVE BUT DON’T FORGET. APPLY LESSONS FROM THE PAST. TREAD LIGHTLY. RESPECT THOSE WHO CAME BEFORE YOU. FORM LASTING ALLIANCES.

8H/SCORPIO SATURN: KEEP THINGS TO URSELF. STAY PRIVATE. PRACTICE SELF CONTROL. RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF HARDSHIP. HOPE FOR THE BEST, PREPARE FOR THE WORST. SAVINGS/RAINY DAY RESOURCES. EMBRACE CHANGE. LEARN TO LET GO. RADICAL ACCEPTANCE. SEXUAL DISCIPLINE. XTRA EMPHASIS ON SAFE SEX!

9H/SAGITTARIUS SATURN: PRACTICE UR BELIEFS. WALK THE TALK. MANTRAS. LEARN FROM OTHERS ; COME TO UR OWN CONCLUSIONS. STUDY. BE AN ETERNAL STUDENT. ALLOW URSELF TO BE OUT OF UR ELEMENT. RESPECT OTHER CULTURES. MAKE UR OWN TRADITIONS. STAY HUMBLE. ACCEPT MULTIPLE TRUTHS. APPLY WHAT WORKS.

10H/CAPRICORN SATURN: KEEP UR EYES ON THE PRIZE. TRUST THAT ALL THINGS COME IN DUE TIME. KEEP URSELF MOTIVATED. WORK FOR WHAT U WANT. STAY CONSISTENT. PERSONAL LEGACY ; THINGS THAT LAST. BECOME UR OWN ROLE MODEL. DO IT URSELF / DO IT RIGHT. LIVE WITH KARMA IN MIND.

11H/AQUARIUS SATURN: LEAD THE WAY ; FURTHER THE CAUSE. BETTER THE COMMUNITY— CREATE UR OWN. BE CONSCIOUS OF WHOM U ASSOCIATE URSELF WITH. BEFRIEND PPL OLDER THAN URSELF. LONGTERM FRIENDSHIPS. LONGTERM RESULTS. ADVANCEMENT. NETWORKING. ONLINE INFLUENCE. SET THE STANDARD.

12/PISCES SATURN: ALL IN MODERATION. HEALTHY COPING METHODS & LIFESTYLE PRACTICES. CONSIDERATION. REFLECTION ; SELF AWARENESS. THERAPY. STANDARDS. LEAVE ONCE DISRESPECTED. NO FAKE FRIENDS. MIND OVER MATTER. MANIFESTATION. BE REAL WITH URSELF. SELF TRUST.

[si-jeunesse-savait]

10 October 2024

Becoming the person you want to be involves a blend of self-reflection, discipline, and consistent effort. Here are some proven steps to help you get there:

Clarify Your Vision: Be very specific about who you want to become. Define your values, habits, goals, and lifestyle in detail. Visualizing this future self can help guide your decisions and actions.

Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Break down your long-term vision into smaller, realistic goals. This makes the path to becoming your ideal self more manageable and gives you a clear roadmap.

Create Daily Habits: Success is built on habits. Identify key behaviors that align with the person you want to become and practice them daily, whether it's waking up early, practicing gratitude, or working on specific skills.

Embrace Growth Mindset: Believe that you can develop and improve over time. Viewing setbacks as learning opportunities will help you stay resilient and motivated.

Surround Yourself with Support: Surround yourself with people who reflect the values and traits you want to embody. Your environment plays a huge role in shaping your behaviors and mindset.

Regular Self-Reflection: Consistently check in with yourself. Reflect on your progress, assess whether you're staying true to your goals, and make adjustments where necessary.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be patient and kind to yourself. Change takes time, and it’s essential to be forgiving when things don’t go as planned. Keep moving forward.

Staying aligned with your vision consistently through these steps can gradually shape you into the person you aspire to be.

[focusdrinkselixir]

What are the top methods for enhancing personal and professional productivity?

Enhancing personal and professional productivity involves a combination of effective time management, organization, and self-discipline. Here are some top methods:

Personal Productivity

Time Management TechniquesPomodoro Technique: Work in short, focused bursts (25 minutes) followed by a short break (5 minutes).Time Blocking: Schedule specific blocks of time for different tasks or activities.Eisenhower Matrix: Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.

Goal SettingSMART Goals: Set goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.OKRs (Objectives and Key Results): Define clear objectives and track progress with measurable results.

Habit Formation21/90 Rule: Commit to a personal or professional goal for 21 days to make it a habit, and continue for 90 days to make it a permanent lifestyle change.Atomic Habits: Focus on small, incremental changes that compound over time.

Mindfulness and MeditationMindfulness Practices: Engage in activities like meditation or yoga to reduce stress and increase focus.Gratitude Journaling: Reflect on positive aspects of your day to foster a positive mindset.

Healthy LifestyleRegular Exercise: Incorporate physical activity into your routine to boost energy and mental clarity.Balanced Diet: Eat nutritious meals to maintain energy levels and overall health.Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get sufficient rest to improve cognitive function and productivity.

Professional Productivity

Task Management ToolsTo-Do Lists: Use tools like Todoist, Microsoft To Do, or simple pen and paper to track tasks.Project Management Software: Utilize platforms like Asana, Trello, or monday.com | Your go-to work platform to organize and manage projects.

Effective CommunicationClear and Concise Communication: Use tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or email efficiently to keep communication streamlined.Regular Meetings: Schedule regular check-ins with your team to ensure alignment and progress.

Delegation and OutsourcingDelegate Tasks: Assign tasks to team members based on their strengths and skills.Outsource When Necessary: Use freelancers or third-party services for tasks that can be handled externally.

Continuous Learning and DevelopmentProfessional Courses and Workshops: Attend workshops, webinars, and online courses to stay updated with industry trends.Reading and Research: Regularly read books, articles, and journals related to your field.

Work Environment OptimizationOrganized Workspace: Keep your workspace clean and organized to reduce distractions.Ergonomic Setup: Ensure your work setup is comfortable and ergonomically sound to prevent strain and fatigue.

Technology UtilizationAutomation Tools: Use automation tools to handle repetitive tasks (e.g., email automation, workflow automation).Productivity Apps: Leverage apps like Evernote, Notion, or OneNote for note-taking and organization.

By integrating these methods into your daily routine, you can significantly enhance both personal and professional productivity.

[yasminbashirovasan]

Mastering Time: How to Create a Time Management System That Works for You

Effective time management is not just about checking off tasks on a to-do list; it's a strategic approach to optimizing your productivity and achieving balance in all aspects of life. By mastering time management, individuals can prioritize tasks, allocate resources efficiently, and quickly navigate daily challenges. This skill enhances productivity and minimizes stress levels, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced lifestyle.

This comprehensive guide will explore proven strategies for creating a personalized time management system tailored to your specific needs. From setting realistic goals to utilizing productivity tools and techniques, you will learn to maximize every minute of your day. Whether aiming to boost professional accomplishments, pursue personal passions, or find more time for relaxation and self-care, mastering time management is the key to unlocking your full potential and achieving long-term success.

Understanding Your Current Time Management

The first step in improving time management is understanding your current practices. Take a moment to reflect on how you currently manage your time. Do you often feel overwhelmed by tasks? Are there specific areas where you consistently need help to stay organized or meet deadlines? Identifying these challenges will provide valuable insights into where improvements can be made.

Setting Clear Goals and Priorities

Effective time management begins with setting clear goals and priorities. One of the most influential frameworks for goal setting is SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By defining objectives in this way, you create a roadmap that guides your daily activities and ensures they align with your broader aspirations. Prioritizing tasks based on their urgency and importance further streamlines your efforts and prevents procrastination.

Choosing the Right Tools and Techniques

Numerous tools and techniques can aid in managing time effectively. For instance, the Eisenhower Matrix helps categorize tasks into urgent, important, less urgent, and less critical categories, allowing you to prioritize effectively. The Pomodoro Technique breaks work into intervals, typically 25 minutes long, separated by short breaks, promoting sustained concentration and productivity. Whether you prefer digital apps or analog methods, experimenting with different tools will help you discover what works best for your workflow and preferences.

Creating Your Personalized System

Creating a personalized time management system involves integrating selected tools and techniques into a cohesive approach. Start by identifying the strategies that resonate most with you and complement your working style. For example, combine daily planning sessions with the Pomodoro Technique to structure your workday effectively. Customization is critical adapt your system to fit your needs and responsibilities, ensuring it enhances rather than complicates your daily routine.

Implementing and Testing Your System

Once you've designed your time management system, it's crucial to implement it consistently. Commit to the new approach and integrate it into your daily routine. Be prepared for an adjustment period as you adapt to new habits and rhythms. Monitor your progress closely—track how effectively you're completing tasks, meeting deadlines, and maintaining work-life balance. Regular evaluation allows you to identify what aspects of your system are working well and where adjustments may be necessary.

Monitoring Progress and Making Adjustments

Continuous improvement is essential for sustainable time management. Regularly assess the effectiveness of your system and be proactive in making adjustments as needed. Stay open to feedback from your own experience what works well during one phase of your life or career may require modification as circumstances change. Stay motivated by celebrating milestones and learning from setbacks, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.

Mastering time management is a journey that begins with self-awareness and evolves through intentional practice and refinement. By understanding your current habits, setting clear goals, selecting appropriate tools and techniques, and customizing a system that suits your needs, you empower yourself to achieve greater efficiency and satisfaction in all aspects of your life. Take proactive steps today to create a time management system that works for you and enhances your overall well-being and success.

Effective time management is not merely about scheduling tasks; it's about making deliberate choices that optimize your resources and enable you to thrive. Embrace the process of creating a personalized time management system and unlock your potential to accomplish more with less stress and greater fulfillment. Start your journey towards mastering time today, and discover the transformative power of effective time management.

[futuristicpaperflower]

Healthy Habits for Busy Professionals: Balancing Work and Wellness

In today's fast-paced world, many professionals find themselves caught in a never-ending cycle of work, deadlines, and meetings. While dedication to one's career is admirable, it often comes at the expense of personal health and well-being. Balancing work and wellness is crucial for maintaining a high level of productivity and achieving long-term success in your professional life. In this blog, we'll explore some healthy habits that busy professionals can incorporate into their routines to strike a harmonious balance between work and wellness.

Prioritize Self-Care

One of the most important aspects of balancing work and wellness is prioritizing self-care. Make time for yourself every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Engage in activities that rejuvenate your mind and body, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or a quick walk outdoors. These short breaks can help reduce stress and improve your focus when you return to work tasks. For More Info Visit: Best Hospital In Ballabgarh

Create a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Adequate sleep is essential for overall health and cognitive function. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, aiming for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Avoid the temptation to burn the midnight oil regularly, as chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a decline in productivity and increased health risks.

Practice Mindful Eating

Busy professionals often resort to quick and unhealthy food options due to time constraints. However, making mindful food choices is vital for sustained energy and well-being. Plan your meals, pack nutritious snacks, and stay hydrated throughout the day. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks, as they can lead to energy crashes.

Set Boundaries

While it's important to be dedicated to your work, setting clear boundaries is equally crucial. Establish specific work hours and avoid overworking yourself. Communicate your limits to your colleagues and superiors, so they understand and respect your need for work-life balance.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, even if it's in small doses. Consider walking or cycling to work, taking the stairs, or scheduling short workout breaks during the day. Exercise not only boosts your physical health but also enhances your mood and cognitive function.

Time Management and Prioritization

Efficient time management and prioritization are key to balancing work and wellness. Use tools like to-do lists, calendars, and time-blocking techniques to organize your tasks. Focus on completing high-priority tasks first, and delegate when necessary. This will help reduce stress and prevent burnout.

Learn to Say No

It can be challenging to turn down additional work or commitments, but learning to say no when your plate is already full is essential for maintaining balance. Prioritize your existing responsibilities and commitments, and don't be afraid to decline new ones that could negatively impact your well-being.

Seek Support and Networking

Don't hesitate to seek support from your peers or consider joining professional networks. Sharing experiences and advice with others in similar situations can provide valuable insights into managing work and wellness effectively.

Take Regular Breaks

Scheduled breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and maintain focus. Use techniques like the Pomodoro method, which involves working in focused intervals with short breaks in between, to boost productivity and prevent burnout.

Reflect and Adjust

Regularly assess your work-life balance and make adjustments as needed. Life and work circumstances change, so be flexible in adapting your habits and routines to ensure that you continue to prioritize your health and well-being.

Balancing work and wellness is a continuous journey, and it requires conscious effort and commitment. By incorporating these healthy habits into your daily life, you can enhance your overall quality of life, maintain high levels of productivity, and achieve success in your professional endeavors without sacrificing your well-being. Remember, a healthy professional is a productive professional.

[ryan-perera]

“Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue...”

Indeed, that's a humorous and insightful saying that reflects the ups and downs of life. It means that some days you might be the one in control, confident, and successful (the pigeon), while on other days, you might feel helpless, overwhelmed, or face setbacks (the statue). It's a reminder that life is full of unpredictable moments, and everyone experiences highs and lows. Embracing both aspects and finding humor in the challenges can help us navigate through the journey with greater resilience and optimism.

And I want to be a pigeon everyday...

It's wonderful to aspire to feel confident, successful, and in control every day, just like the pigeon in the saying. While it's not always possible to avoid challenging days, there are certain attitudes and habits you can cultivate to increase your chances of feeling like a "pigeon" more often:

Positive mindset: Focus on cultivating a positive outlook on life. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, and try to find the silver lining in difficult situations.

Self-confidence: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Recognize your strengths and achievements, and use them as building blocks to face new challenges.

Set goals: Establish clear and achievable goals. Working towards and accomplishing these goals can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Resilience: Develop the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Life can throw unexpected curveballs, but your resilience will help you keep moving forward.

Continuous learning: Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. Acquiring new skills and knowledge will increase your confidence and competence.

Adaptability: Stay flexible and open to change. Being adaptable allows you to navigate through different situations with ease.

Surround yourself with positivity: Spend time with supportive and positive people who uplift and encourage you.

Celebrate small victories: Recognize and celebrate even the smallest achievements. Celebrating progress, no matter how minor, can boost your motivation.

Practice gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate the good things in your life. Gratitude can shift your focus to the positive aspects of your experiences.

Take care of yourself: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Physical well-being contributes to mental and emotional well-being.

Remember, it's okay to have off days too. Everyone experiences ups and downs, and it's all part of being human. Embrace the journey, and strive to be the best version of yourself every day while accepting that perfection is not necessary or even possible. Aim to be a pigeon as often as you can, but also embrace the days when you might feel like a "statue" because those days can teach you valuable lessons and make you appreciate the good times even more.

[chocolatedetectivehottub]

How To Create the Growth and Sustainable Success you Desire | sleep peacefully,

How To Create the Growth and Sustainable Success you Desire | sleep peacefully,

Title: How To Create the Growth and Sustainable Success you Desire | Sleep Peacefully

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, achieving sustainable success while maintaining a healthy work-life balance has become a universal aspiration. Many individuals find themselves struggling to strike a harmonious equilibrium between their professional ambitions and personal well-being. However, by adopting a strategic and holistic approach, it is possible to create a path towards both growth and sustainable success. In this article, we will explore practical tips and techniques to help you achieve your desired success while ensuring a peaceful and rejuvenating sleep routine.

Define Your Vision: Before embarking on your journey toward sustainable success, it's crucial to define your vision and set clear goals. Take the time to reflect on your values, passions, and long-term aspirations. By aligning your actions with your vision, you can ensure that your pursuit of success is meaningful and in line with your authentic self.

Prioritize Self-Care: One of the fundamental pillars of sustainable success is self-care. It's essential to prioritize your physical and mental well-being to maintain the energy and focus required for growth. Establish healthy habits such as regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and stress management techniques like meditation or mindfulness. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you recharge, allowing you to approach your goals with renewed vigor.

Cultivate a Growth Mindset: A growth mindset is key to achieving sustainable success. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. View setbacks and failures as valuable lessons rather than personal shortcomings. Believe in your ability to improve and adapt, and approach each situation with curiosity and resilience. By fostering a growth mindset, you open yourself up to endless possibilities and continuous improvement.

Develop a Strategic Plan: Success rarely happens by chance. To create sustainable growth, it is essential to develop a strategic plan. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, actionable steps and create a timeline for achieving them. Set milestones along the way to track your progress and make adjustments as necessary. By having a clear roadmap, you can navigate challenges more effectively and stay focused on your desired outcomes.

Seek Continuous Learning and Development: In today's rapidly evolving world, staying ahead requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Actively seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skillset through courses, workshops, conferences, or networking events. Surround yourself with mentors and like-minded individuals who can provide guidance and support. By embracing a mindset of continuous learning, you position yourself for growth and adaptability in an ever-changing landscape.

Foster Meaningful Connections: Success is rarely achieved in isolation. Cultivate meaningful connections with colleagues, mentors, and peers within your industry. Build relationships based on trust, collaboration, and shared goals. Engage in networking activities and attend industry events to expand your professional network. These connections not only provide opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange but also contribute to your overall sense of fulfillment and support.

Embrace Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for sustainable success. Dedicate time to your personal life, family, and hobbies. Set boundaries between work and personal time, ensuring that you allocate sufficient time for relaxation and rejuvenation. By nurturing a balanced lifestyle, you enhance your creativity, productivity, and overall well-being.

Conclusion:

Creating growth and sustainable success requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses self-care, strategic planning, continuous learning, meaningful connections, and a healthy work-life balance. By integrating these principles into your life, you can chart a path toward the success you desire while ensuring that you sleep peacefully at night. Remember, success is not merely a destination but an ongoing journey, and by embracing the process and taking care of yourself, you can cultivate long-term prosperity and fulfillment.

[socially-inept-marketer]

Benefits of Hiring a Life Coach

Maybe you're interested but are not sure of the benefits of life coaching? Or, you may be checking on the business as you find out more about the chance of becoming a life coach.Whatever motivates you personally, we have got something for you in this manual. Below you'll find a listing of 33 attributes and advantages of lifestyle coaching to reply to your questions. Read the numerous points below and discover just how impressed you become!

Let us dive in...What's the objective of a lifestyle coach?

Before we look at the respective advantages of lifestyle coaching, just what does a life coach do? The objective of a life coach will be to work in partnership with the individual to assist them in reaching their potential throughout all aspects of life.As a professional sports participant has a mentor to work on their functionality's technical and mental aspects, regular people should have a structured and disciplined way of personal development and improvement.A licensed life coach plays this function.What are the advantages of life coaching?

Below are 33 examples that reveal why life coaching is now a mainstream market.

Enriched self-confidenceA study from the International Coaching Federation (IFC) found that 80 percent of people who hired a life coach reported an improvement in self-confidence.Another perspectiveWe're frequently consumed by our very own remarks, life experiences, and manner of thinking. A life coach can offer a new and frequently beneficial perspective on matters.Heightened self-awarenessBeing fully conscious of your effect on other people and recognizing your flaws, strengths, and one-of-a-kind personality traits is a very challenging experience. This is the artwork of self-awareness.Self-awareness calls for a powerful capacity for introspection and reflection, something that a life coach can help you work towards. In reality, one study found that 67.6percent of training clients encounter a greater degree of self-awareness.Produce a balanced lifestyleThe idea of life balance differs for everyone. Still, often it refers to a joyful, peaceful, and harmonious relationship between your cognitive and physical being, in addition to the significant regions of life.One of the advantages of a life coach is identifying what equilibrium appears like for you and specifying action steps to attain more balance in your lifetime.

Foster better connections

Relationships are the glue that unites individuals with culture and supplies shared satisfaction in life. From unions to beyond and friendships, strong relationships are a crucial contributor to joy.According to the identical ICF study mentioned before, 73 percent of people who hired a life coach enhanced their relationships.Achieve goalsMost of us have dreams in life. However, not a lot of people crystalize these dreams into tangible goals to accomplish. A significant advantage of lifestyle coaching is defining your lifetime objectives and generating a concrete, viable plan to reach them.

Find joy

True happiness is a bit of a mysterious experience, and for many people, it isn't easy to envision a life that's forever delighted. After the day, joy is inherent; it is a sense that's unique to how you feel inside.

By defining lifestyle targets, creating equilibrium, and committing to a much better version of yourself together with the assistance of a lifestyle coach, you start up the possibility of finding happiness. Helping others find joy is one of the principal reasons people eventually become life coaches.

Discover clarity of function Are you clear on exactly what your goal in life would be? Again, this is an individual and inner fire that burns within. It is your fire, dreams, abilities, and flaws all bundled into one.It is your direction in life. Clarity of purpose is essential if you would like to chase your dreams, a life coach can help you in producing this attention.

Do everything you loveFinding that one thing that you enjoy more than anything else and doing this daily is a massive contributor to joy and gratification. Having clarity of function unlocks insights into what this could be. That is just another one of the numerous advantages of a life coach in your corner.Follow through on responsibilities.Employing a life coach is about more than simply getting guidance and advice; it also generates liability. You'll get an ally that holds you to a word and guarantees those aims become chased and projects are finished.Discover your Very Best selfMany people spend too much time comparing themselves to other people and focussing on what we perceive to be our defects. 

Discovering your very best self is one of those invaluable advantages of life coaching.

Determine your strengths and flawsA life coach will take an impartial view of your weaknesses and strengths, assisting you to know the areas of most incredible opportunity

.Be open-minded

To be open-minded, you have to appreciate various methods of doing things and changing viewpoints on life aside from your own. A life coach can offer the outlook and thinking process necessary to adopt this mindset.

Unlock possible

A lot of people have latent potential that's concealed by bias or closed-mindedness. Life coaches unlock this possibility by opening up you to alternative thinking methods and producing clarity for your direction in life

.Improve communication

According to the IFC analysis mentioned previously, seventy-two percent of people who employ a life coach enhance their communication abilities. That is no surprise that the very best life coaches have licensed NLP practitioners -- the most innovative set of communication abilities ever developed. Successful communication is one of the principal advantages of NLP life coaching. (Find more information about exactly what NLP is.)

Manage productivity and time

Everyone has the identical amount of time daily, but a few people use those 24 hours better than others. Working with a life coach can help you better manage your time, establish priorities, and get more done.

Remove negative thoughts

In addition to studying the positive elements of life, like your goal, goals, and possible, life coaches are equipped with a collection of techniques that could enable you to remove or reduce negative ideas that hold you back.

Conquer your fears

By reducing unwanted ideas and adopting your own strengths, you may start to conquer fears which have been limiting your ability to attain your dreams.

Unearth creativity

You are able to use a life coach to brainstorm ideas and exude imagination that's sitting dormant in the depths of the own subconscious.

Give a different perspective on life

Becoming open-minded, self indulgent, and contemplating a new outlook on life will provide you a more favorable and well-rounded outlook.

Create higher income

The skills you develop while coping with a life coach will concentrate your assets while pursuing career objectives or expanding your business to new heights. This really is one of the vital advantages of training in a business atmosphere.

Remove bad habits

When bad customs are embedded within our daily life, they reduce our capacity to carry out. Working with a impartial third party can help you decide what these customs can be and learn how to eliminate them.

Be Conscious of your worth

Our values are such deeply held principles that affect our behaviour and inspire us to do things both big and small. Given that the sheer influence of lifestyle values on each activity, being mindful of what they are can reevaluate how we live and execute.Alignment of advantages with choices

A strengths-based strategy to personal development concentrates on the positive internal resources of someone make modifications. This is compared to conventional procedures that concentrate on identifying flaws and attempting to improve those regions.

Stay inspired: 

One of the Most Popular benefits of lifestyle coaching

Setbacks and roadblocks can derail the best people. One of the most popular benefits of life coaching is to maintain the subject and maximum effort during hard times. You will probably discover pockets of thirst and inspiration which you never knew existed.

Despite believing that we behave logically, the majority of people make decisions based on emotion or entirely subconscious procedures . Having a deeper knowledge of the way the mind functions, you can reframe the procedure for decision-making so it becomes easier and wiser.

By way of instance, an NLP-trained life trainer will be well-versed from the NLP Decision Making Approach , a concept that integrates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic (touch) perceptions and the way they affect our conclusions.

Show empath

In order empathetic, you have to view and feel that the world through the lens of someone else, place yourself into their shoes, and be conscious of their own situation. Regrettably, not everyone has the exact same capacity to demonstrate compassion towards other people.

A life coach can help you look past your own personal wants and supply in-the-moment methods for displaying compassion.

Learn How to accept criticism

If you have been to a job interview, it is very likely you have been asked just how well you take comments from other people. Although the majority of people would love to believe they are open and eager to accept criticism or feedback, in the warmth of this moment their feelings take over.A psychological reaction may lead to a less than ideal effect on the individual providing the comments, who might only be trying to assist you. Learning how to accept criticism is an effective life ability to develop and one of the advantages of life coaching.

Display more appreciation

Showing gratitude and appreciation is an essential component of boosting relationships. It makes people feel great about the effect they have in your own life -- be it in a corporate environment or even socially.

A life coach knows the significance of admiration and has the resources that will assist you to use it effectively in your daily life.

Build rapport

Rapport is a link between a team that empowers those people to socialize and communicate efficiently. For most of us, rapport is regarded as an uncontrollable force that we have with someone or people do not.

But, creating connections with other people can be an intentional and organized procedure a life coach can help you with.Boost physical well-being

Life coaches can provide more than simply emotional and mental support. They can also work together with you to make and implement a strategy for enhancing your bodily well-being or losing weight. A wholesome body often causes a wholesome head also.Reduce stress

Anxiety is a frequent occurrence for a significant section of the populace. Financial burdens, career-related problems, or personal relationship issues could lead to psychological uncertainty and stress-related wellness issues. Life coaches have access to comfort methods, for example, NLP, which can decrease the psychological habits causing anxiety in your life.#33. Reduced depression and stress

Depression and stress are a society-wide wellness issue with lots of complex components, none of which can be a simple fix. But, obtaining an ally in your corner, that knows your causes could lead to an enhanced means of handling the signs of mental health problems.

Advantages of Edmonton Life Coach -- Decision To be happy is another suggestion for everyone. However, one thing is for sure, if you're clear on your goal, remove negativity from your life, and also possess the resources and methods to construct meaningful connections, happiness and satisfaction are attainable.They're more than viable -- everything you'll need is a frame for discovering your leadership in life and an ally that will assist you in getting there. That is your life coach.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coaching 

[brazen-blogposts]

Netflix’s “We Are The Champions” Cheese-Rolling Contest: My Life in a Nutshell

How Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake in Brockworth, Gloucestershire reminded me of my self-sabotaging behavior.

Recently I found myself in the Netflix wormhole watching a giant cheese-rolling contest. Aside from being highly entertaining, We Are The Champions had me in deep thought and self-reflection. As I sat there and watched hundreds of people tumble and somersault face-first down an outrageously steep hill racing after a single cheese wheel, I felt like I was watching my own reality show. There I was, smashing my face off the ground year after year in the hope of winning at life and getting a piece of that damn cheese wheel. But, each year, I would run the same race with the same mindset as the last and either find myself losing, injured, or stuck in the same ditch. A form of insanity and self-sabotage far too familiar to me.

What is Self-Sabotage?

Then, a light bulb goes off, and I get sick and tired of feeling stuck. I get that little spark of motivation that makes me believe I can do and be better. Or, less optimistically, I am motivated by feeling not good enough compared to what I view on tv, social media, magazines, or other sources of low self-esteem factors. So, I go fishing for photos on Instagram that I want to look like or be like. Because we all know, if we have the right makeup, clothes, body, and all that booty and sass — we will finally be good enough and worthy of something. (Bull shit).

When I start to feel like I’m on a roll, the real challenges start to pop up out of nowhere. Oh, by the way, most of the positive changes you decide to make usually have an associated cost. Expect and prepare for that when you embark on your championship changes. The costs are different depending on what changes were made. In my case, my new habits and lifestyle start to take a toll on friendships and my social life. Once known as the “life of the party,” I now assumed Sober Sally's reputation. The missed happy hours, weekend trips, and parties started to add up, and all of a sudden, I had an extreme case of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). I started grieving the “old me” because “she” was more fun, maybe even considered more likable and easy-going. So at some point, the excuses bang list I created eventually ran out, and the pressure became too much to handle. Instead of friends being supportive, they may highlight that “you’ve changed and that it’s just not the same anymore.” Even though you know deep down the changes you have committed to are positive and necessary to stop self-sabotaging.

Stepping away from the norm and toxic culture can feel lonely. On top of all of this, it’s sometimes tricky to start meeting new people and developing trustworthy friendships who support your new living style. So, change starts to feel overwhelming and totally out of reach with too many uncontrollable situations. Soon we end up saying, screw it and cozy up to the life you knew before. The habits come back like second nature — the bottles pile up, the late-night pizza orders start to add up, the gym memberships are still being paid for but not used, and you resume your role of being the super glue to all your toxic relationships. In other words, the cheese wheel continues to roll, and you continue to chase the sabotage, face-planting every step of the way.

2. Identify goals to change and break the cycle using IMPACT questions.

Improve: Does it improve the quality of my life?

Measurable: Is it measurable in terms of knowing when I have accomplished it?

Positively: Is it positively stated as something new I want in my life?

Achievable: Is it achievable for me in my present situation and with my current abilities?

Call forth Actions: What actions can I do regularly to remain committed?

Time-limited: Is it time-limited in terms of when I will begin and when I plan to finish.

Now that you answered your IMPACT questions plan how you will effectively communicate your goals to change with those who matter and support you most. Remind yourself that it is okay to grieve and mourn the loss of the old you. This can be a natural reaction to change, and that grief does not have to be suppressed.

There will be bumps along the race, but you will be in a much better place with undoubtedly less long-lasting bruises at the end of the hill. Start imagining yourself now holding the cheese wheel high above your head. Commit to being a Champion; most importantly, commit to yourself.

[the-hopeless-existentialist]

Living Well at Any Age - Women's Health

20s

At this age, anxiety is a well-used word. Poorly managed stress is a threat to both physical and mental health, work safety and productivity. Stress continues to challenge every day.

The battle against fatigue is also ongoing. The importance of the B group and C vitamins in maintaining energy levels in times when the demands on performance are continually high is well documented. Fibre, good fats, low GI carbohydrates and wise protein options are essential in energy production. Additionally, magnesium is a wonderful tension reliever, and works well to restore restful sleep.

30s

Working hard and arranging a family puts a different emphasis on the nutritional requirements for each partner. A variety of demands on your resources and time can raise stress levels to a new high. Stress in all its guises, causes an increased demand for a selection of essential and complementary nutritional factors.

This aids digestion since there are co-factors present in food which are absent from nutritional supplements. And remember to take your supplements every day.

40s

So-called'middle age' is a time when some of the common chronic diseases such as elevated blood pressure and diabetes are noticed. Demands on time and additional financial pressures can lead to poor dietary choices and less exercise. High stress levels lead to increases in inflammatory markers, leading to oxidative damage to blood vessels. Regular health assessments are important.

Appropriate supplementation supports good nutrition. Vitamin C for blood pressure health, calcium and vitamin D for bone strength, B group vitamins for nervous system support and essential fatty acids for mental health are fundamental. These nutritional supplements are important to enable proper and efficient processing of food groups, particularly to enable our digestive function to perform satisfactorily.

Men can be poor observers of health issues, but are lucky to have the moderating and prudent opinions of the partners, as their health can often be pushed into the background.

Children are keen mimics of our behavior patterns, so regular mealtimes with the family form a wonderful foundation on which they will build their own impressions of food types, proper mealtime behavior and their ability to communicate well.

Time for sufficient exercise and comfort is tough to find, but must be part of your healthy routine. Stretching before exercise and suitable warm down processes will ensure minimal injury interruptions. Magnesium is a terrific nutrient to unwind tired and aching muscles, and promote restful sleep.

Keep and protect"me time" if possible. Rest is a wonderful tonic for stress, and demands on your time.

50s

Those good habits we've put into place are paying huge health dividends now. As an acknowledgment that our hormones are changing, there are a few additional health challenges to tackle. Alterations in hormone levels are reflected by interrupted sleep, mood fluctuations and an awareness that the teens in the family are getting to be independent (or at least we hope they are!) .

Food choices and healthy recipes continue to be important. More omega-3 in the form of oily fish has an important role in hormone support, skin moisture content and elasticity, and concentration. It also plays a role in cardiovascular health and as an anti-inflammatory in joint pain.

Sleep may be the biggest challenge. Make sure that your sleep pattern is structured and consistent. Start to relax well before you expect sleep to overtake you. Locate the best strategies to induce drowsiness in your particular instance - everybody is different! However, the need for sleep as a recovery aid is essential to emotional, physical and mental health.

Require a 50+ multivitamin daily, together with extra calcium in the most soluble forms. Good digestion could be encouraged by addressing gut issues like constipation or bloating. The easiest way to verify your digestive function is to inspect your tongue. A coated tongue reveals poor digestive function. Correction of this issue ensures good gut health, better energy levels and increased vitality.

60s

The ability to move well, use your brain to its maximum potential and have minimal risk of chronic disease are the ultimate objectives. Regular assessments by a trusted health professional ensure that small alterations will keep you well.

This applies especially to your mind and your joints. The brain relies on good levels of nutrients to function correctly, along with adequate hydration. Sometimes thoughblood flow to your brain, and for that reason the source of nourishment, needs support. The safe and effective herb Gingko Biloba is an easy way to ensure adequate scalp and brain circulation. Furthermore, Bacopa is a clinically proven herbal ingredient to support memory and concentration.

Get tips on improving every aspect of your physical and mental health at THE HOPELESS EXISTENTIALIST

Health Tips Blog Articles Should Offer Sensible Advice

The internet is full of health related advice. Nowadays, a lot of this comes in the form of a health tips blog, general interest articles, medical related web sites, commercial advertising, and even in e-mails from friends and relatives. It is like each one has an opinion and believes they need to share it with the world. If it is in the form of advice that really benefits us we may appreciate it and make use of it. However so much of it's way off target and only comes out sounding"preachy".

People who read the health tips blog on self help and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can find hundreds of valuable advice on how to stay healthy far in their eighties, nineties, or even beyond the age of one hundred. Read the advice offered by people who have made it into old age and stayed feeling good and leading productive lives. They obviously know something and you can learn about it through their health tips site advisement.

According to some health tips blog sites exercising, even on a small scale, is necessary to keep not just our muscles but joints, bones, and skin healthy and strong. The human skin is the largest organ of the body and treating it directly helps us feel good inside as well as out. Fresh air is good for the human body so go outside more and take brisk walks even when the weather isn't to your liking.

Health tips blog personal maintenance for a good healthy lifestyle offers suggestions regarding activities that will keep all us feeling good about ourselves because we stay fit and active. Avoid smoking and that means preventing those who do smoke. Many who is spouse still smokes in their home might also be smoking too as they breathe in constantly.

Excellent hygiene is essential because infections can wear down our immune system and bring on colds, flu, and other diseases that could harm or even kill us over time. The health tips blog that benefits us will offer assistance with diet and nutrition by providing suggestions in what's ideal for us. Of course we don't all agree on what we want to eat so there has to be various foods suggested. Some who live a vegan lifestyle are happy that way, feeling they're healthier by not eating meat of any sort. It is all up to the individual and how they prefer to deal with their life as well as their lifestyle.

Health care professionals advise through health tips blog or medical web sites that keeping a balanced diet is more important than what we eat specifically.

[lifesagiftsoliveit]

Practical Ways to Improve Your Confidence (and Why You Should)

By Eric Ravenscraft

Self-confidence is just one element in a triad of things that make up our overall “confidence.” Here’s what you can do to boost yours.

Self-confidence is a bit like the running water in your house. You may not know every detail about how it works or where it comes from, but it’s painfully obvious when it’s not there. Like when your water is shut off, a dearth of self-confidence has a huge negative impact on your health and lifestyle. Fortunately, there are things you can do to shore it up.

What is confidence?

In everyday conversation, self-confidence is often confused with self-esteem, and it overlaps with the less well-known term “self-efficacy.” However, psychology gives each of these terms a specific definition. It’s helpful to distinguish among the three:

Self-Efficacy: This term, as defined by Albert Bandura, a Canadian-American psychologist, refers to your belief in your ability to accomplish specific tasks. If you believe you’re capable of cooking dinner or completing a project, this is reflective of high self-efficacy. People with low self-efficacy often put less effort into a task if they don’t believe they’ll succeed at it, increasing the likelihood of failure.

Self-Confidence: In contrast, according to Dr. Bandura, self-confidence is more of a general view of how likely you are to accomplish a goal, especially based on your past experience. When you practice playing piano, you increase your confidence in your ability to play the piano. This can also apply to how likely you believe you are to be accepted in a social group. If you’ve been made fun of for your underwater basket-weaving hobby, you might be less confident sharing it with others next time. Self-confidence and self-efficacy are both rooted in experience, but self-confidence reflects a broader view of yourself, rather than your confidence in specific tasks.

Self-Esteem: The term most often confused with self-confidence is the one perhaps least similar to it. Self-esteem refers to a belief in your overall worth. Broad statements like “I’m a good person” fall into this category. Self-esteem is one of the levels of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, and improvements to self-confidence can contribute to your broader self-esteem.

These concepts overlap, and psychologists disagree about where the lines are between each one. You can have enough confidence to believe that you’re capable of learning how to play a new game, for example, while simultaneously lacking the self-efficacy to believe that you’ll be any good when you first start. Likewise, you can have zero confidence in your ability to cook while still believing you’re a good person and deserving of love.

High confidence leads to more chances to improve

Self-confidence is your belief in how good you are at something, but it’s not a measure of your actual skill. So why does it matter if you believe in yourself? According to Charlie Houpert, the author of “Charisma on Command” and the founder of a 2.7-million-subscriber YouTube channel of the same name, confidence doesn’t just make you feel better, it also helps you take risks to make tangible improvements to your life.

“Internally, true self-confidence will lead to more positivity, happiness and resilience,” Mr. Houpert said. “Externally, high self-confidence will lead to taking more risks, which directly correlates with reaping more rewards.”

The “Oxford Handbook of Positive Psychology” puts it another way: “If the person lacks confidence, again there will be no action. That’s why a lack of confidence is sometimes referred to as ‘crippling doubt.’ Doubt can impair effort before the action begins or while it is ongoing.”

If you believe you can get your dream job if you apply, there’s a chance, however small, you might get it. If you don’t believe that you can get it, and you don’t apply, it’s guaranteed that you won’t. Self-confidence doesn’t magically make you better at what you do, but it does prime you to take the risks necessary to achieve your goals.

How you can improve your self-confidence

If building self-confidence is a matter of changing your beliefs about yourself, it’s going to take some work. You can say, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough and, doggone it, people like me” into the mirror every day — and it couldn’t hurt — but there are more practical, effective tools you can use, too.

Be ‘hyper honest’ with yourself

Mr. Houpert suggests being “hyper honest” with yourself as a simple, everyday way to exercise your confidence.

“For example, let’s say someone asks you what you do for fun or what you do for a living,” he said. “If you find yourself biting your tongue or hiding something, evaluate that. That’s an indication to either stop doing that thing or, more likely, accept that part of yourself and own it.”

This doesn’t mean you have to share every part of your personality with everyone you meet. You can share your geeky hobbies with your geeky friends but stick to work topics at work. However, you can find someone to share yourself with. “When you stop hiding parts of yourself from other people, you’ll find you feel more confident in who you are,” Mr. Houpert said.

Start working out

Many people start working out to lose weight or build muscle, but exercise can also be a huge boost to your self-confidence. The American Psychological Association has noted that exercise can improve your mood and — along with regular treatment and therapy — help combat depression and anxiety. It can also help improve your confidence if you stick with it for a while. Working out regularly requires a commitment, and keeping that commitment is an accomplishment. Not only does sticking to a new healthy habit make you feel more confident, but you can also spot physical improvements to your body and health over the long term.

Try things that make you uncomfortable

Stepping outside your comfort zone is, as you might expect, uncomfortable. Mr. Houpert said that’s the point.

“Confidence is ultimately about being comfortable in a wide variety of situations that would make most people feel uncomfortable,” he said. “So if you stretch your comfort zone every day, very quickly you’ll have a large comfort zone and be able to feel more comfortable even when outside of it.”

This can involve more daunting changes, like taking a new job or confronting someone you usually avoid. However, it can also take smaller forms, like striking up a conversation with someone new if you’re normally shy, or trying a new food. According to Mr. Houpert, it’s more important that you regularly expand your comfort zone rather than occasionally throwing yourself into the deep end.

Try a new look

How you dress can affect how other people perceive you, but it can also affect how you perceive yourself. Wearing different clothes can prompt you to think or behave differently. This effect isn’t just limited to feeling good about yourself. Dr. Adam D. Galinsky, a professor at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, found that participants in a study who wore a white lab coat exhibited more focused attention. In other words, when people dressed like a doctor, they behaved more like a doctor, or at least how they thought a doctor might behave. If you want to feel more confident, dress the way a confident version of yourself would.

Defy your impostor syndrome

Impostor syndrome is a nasty mental bug that convinces you that your accomplishments don’t really count and that you’re going to be found out as a fraud. This doubt can creep in because it’s easier to remember faults but more difficult to remember successes. Make a habit of periodically writing down or reflecting on times you’ve done things well. It’s easier to be confident in your abilities when you remember them.

Adjust your posture

Much like how you dress, the posture you adopt can affect how you feel about yourself. While it might feel a little silly at first (remember that tip about stepping outside your comfort zone), trying out powerful stances can help adjust your frame of mind. Research from Ohio State University suggests that something as simple sitting up straight can make you feel more confident in what you’re doing.

Avoid the arrogance trap

As you start to express yourself more confidently, it’s natural to worry about becoming arrogant in the process. However, according to Mr. Houpert, arrogance isn’t confidence run amok.

“Arrogance is more the result of insecurity than high self-confidence,” he said. “Confidence is self-satisfied while arrogance requires external validation to feel good. So you get people who brag to solicit the recognition of others. Someone with true self-confidence is capable of being assertive and standing up for themselves, but they’re unlikely to adopt a tone that others perceive as arrogant. Oddly enough, the best defense against arrogance is developing true self-confidence.”

If you start out doubting yourself, it will take time before you feel like you belong. In the interim, your own creeping doubt can try to tell you that feeling good about yourself or standing your ground is really arrogance. Recognizing that this is a symptom of insecurity — and that being aware of the symptom is its own form of inoculation against it — can help you push past it.

[joanndromeda]

December 31st is the one day that sort of naturally forces us to put forth a fair amount of reflection about ourselves, whether we want to or not. Is it the one time we all truly find clarity? Or the one time we all actually forgive ourselves? I don’t know. Despite so many circumstances destroying me, and leaving me feeling like I’m standing on just one leg with all my other limbs severed, I really, truly can’t believe I made it to this very last day.

The new year is so important for all of us. Obviously, we don’t change overnight. But we’re allowed 365 new days for rebirth, healing, love, and redemption.

I have important personal goals for myself. Goals that are better for my overall health, goals that are manageable, and most importantly, goals that I can measure quantitatively. As part of the laws and principles that govern human behavior, goals are difficult to achieve because the consequence is not immediate. We aren’t immediately rewarded for our attempts. And we, understandably, want immediate results. If they’re not there when we put forth the first effort, of course our response-effort dwindles in an instant.

That’s what I’ve learned this year: goals require us; they need us--our time, our passion, our patience, our effort--to be a tangible reality. If you don’t have the minimum of these four disciplines, your goals will be hard to achieve.

But that’s what these 365 new days are for. As the earth reaches its final centimeters around the earth, we become intrinsically blessed with a new, year-long beginning.

This time, I want to make sure the goals I have for this coming year are measurable and have some sort of intervention or end-product plan, not something vague that I think I could just check off like a grocery list. Bigger goals--traveling and applying for my master’s, etc.--are already written out and in the planning phase on another platform. The goals listed here are all things I want to work on so long as I’m living and breathing. Goals that can be adjusted according to my life circumstances. Goals that are relatively manageable to pick right back up if/when I become sloppy and inconsistent about meeting them. Goals that I can pretty much work on for the rest of my life and one day, hopefully, turn them into a natural part of my lifestyle. In no particular order:

Less social media: social media is the biggest offender when it comes to having yourself compare your own life to others when you don’t want to. As long as I keep comparing my productivity and success to others, my sense of self-worth will always remain stagnant or drop. I was scrolling feed after feed way too much this year; it became an unconscious and automatic behavior. Now, open windows for social media: during my lunch break, one hour max after work, and ~15-20 minutes before my nightly routine. Free spaces will be dedicated to self-care, leisure activities, projects, and relaxation.

Stable sleeping schedule: as I’m getting older, 6-7 hours of sleep just isn’t working for me anymore. Especially for the kind of job my work entails, a major antecedent for my mediocre job falls back to my hours of sleep. Now, a minimum of 8 hours of sleep for all work days; weekends are excluded. Bedtimes will be enforced by means of a schedule, and all alarms will be set up and active for the five days of work. As I’ve learned from my field, antecedent interventions are always the most preferable.

More fruits and vegetables in diet: personally, I did a solid job including vegetables whenever I found time to cook and making a fruit smoothie for about 70% of opportunities for breakfast this year. Now, continue with the fruit smoothies because they’re healthy and convenient. Just more protein powder intake, so stock up when container is only about 1/4 full. Replace granola bars and crackers with fruits at least 50% of opportunities. As for vegetables, continue cooking with the same ones I enjoy eating. This time, they will substitute for at least 40% of carbs, as long as the amount of carbs on my plate still meets the daily nutritional intake and satisfactory satiation. Treat-yourself meals and eating out are obviously exceptions.

Cleanse face every single night: I find the main reason for all my acne this year was due to not cleansing my face consistently each night. I have the necessary products and done my research for what works for my skin; my discipline is just lacking. Now, cleanse each night as part of my nightly regimen. Each week, alternate between AHA, BHA, AHA, and BHA again, totaling 2 nights of AHA and 2 nights of BHA. In addition, tamanu oil as a nightly spot treatment, and rosehip oil mixed into moisturizer for the mornings.

More art: more art means more opportunities for practice and improvement. I completed half of my sketchbook for this year (originally hoped for full completion by end of the year). I feel that if I’m going to apply for my master’s, I’m going to have little to no time for myself to draw or paint. Start now while the free time is available, abundant, and opportune. Now, complete at least 2 art pieces per month. One must include watercolor paint. To maximize opportunities, use leftover pages from 2 old sketchbooks I own for inspiration, drafting, and doodling. This will also help me overcome artist’s block and my habit for clean perfect sketches. As of writing this, half-filled sketchbook will be completed by next June and new sketchbook will be solely dedicated to inking.

Spend more time with mom and niece: As my mom is aging and I’ve become more removed from her life, I see myself becoming more and more confused and intolerable to typical behaviors of older folks. I’m finding myself treating her like a child and being the grown-up in most of our interactions. As for my niece, I want to fill her still-malleable brain with science, the arts, and adventures with her aunt before her life becomes consumed by friends, relationships, puberty, and her own established interests. Now, each time mom visits, ask her what she would like to do while she’s here. If mom has no suggestions, find one opportunity to take her somewhere. Could be her favorite pho restaurant or Bath & Body Works. Doesn’t have to be over the top, as long as I maximize opportunities to get to know mom as she is aging, and what I can do to care for her well-being during this transitional period. For niece, make her summer vacation a meaningful and memorable time with her aunt. Dedicate my undivided self to her at least 4 different occasions during her break. Will be in the form of going to a museum, traveling in a different city, watching cartoon marathons, doing paint projects, etc.

Save money: I definitely don’t think I had any crazy spending frenzies this year. Definitely some impulsive purchases here and there, but certainly not a lot to be a point of concern. My only real issue was not having any real long-term goals this year, so I wasn’t really saving for anything. The money was just sitting there the majority of the time, and when the money was just sitting there, I found excuses to spend it because I felt I wasn’t being productive with it. Mainly food, drinks, and things for my room and wardrobe. Not a lot of useless and wasteful spending. Now, stick to my money-saving plan written out on my other platform. Because I actually have serious plans this coming year (and the next), I should be more mindful about my money.

[fionas-french-challenge-blog]

Blog 1 - Initial Challenge Planning

My challenge:

Vocabulary – Difficulty keeping up language practice  outside class. I have tried to combat this sporadically through use of  Duolingo, although it does not target specific vocabulary from my classes.

‘Thinking too much’ – Rather than trusting my  knowledge of the language and letting myself feel how to correctly use the  language I find myself grasping for particular rules and structures that I  should be using, therefore hindering my fluency and stressing me out further.  The best solution I have found for this is knowing structures very well so  they are second nature, though this becomes an issue when I am placed in  variable situations.

Getting confused about when to use different  conjugations – I get confused about which conjugations to use in certain situations  and find myself stressing and without knowing where to start if I haven’t  been specifically instructed to use a certain one. I have best approached  this in the past through memorisation, though I feel as if this knowledge has  not stayed in my memory very well.

My Learning goal:

Getting a 6 in FREN2010 throughout the regular  assessment pieces in the class and overall for the course.

Being able to differentiate and describe different  verb tenses + conjugations (present; past (passé composé, imparfait); future  (futur proche, futur simple); conditional).

Feeling more confident and relaxed in straying from  specific sentence structures/responses/questions, especially in class.  Decreasing my use of English in French classes.

Increase confidence in conversation (especially with  native speakers).

Retaining knowledge so that I can have a good base  for FREN2020 and speak functionally in France at the end of the year.

My learning styles and strategies:  

Very clear guidelines/rules for grammar – Purposed French  language learning Instagrams, Youtube, and Podcasts should help me with this  by providing definitions and explanations for difficult grammar concepts using  different learning strategies of which some will hopefully suit me.

Creativity – exploring knowledge through reuse which  is then subject to critique; application of critique and revision of problem  areas. – I will achieve this through interaction with French social media  (Instagram). This creativity is given much room for exploration in my formal  university class sessions and is therefore not a huge focus of mine for this  challenge.

Group settings/discussions. –  I can participate in discussions on  Instagram and YouTube posts aimed specifically for French learning.

Natural and practical applications for knowledge – Exposing  myself to French designed for native speakers (podcasts, YouTube videos,  Instagram, Netflix, etc.) should help me to be more comfortable with integrating  French into my everyday life, and therefore increase my familiarity with it  in a casual setting.

The technologies I am  going to test:

Duolingo:

Not very useful to actually teach me intricacies of  grammar

Good way to revise and improve vocabulary

Requires listening to and replication of  pronunciation

No options for experimenting with language knowledge  (e.g. creativity using the language and therefore challenging self to be more  independent with language – ‘thinking too much’ challenge)

Instagram: Following French Instagrams with language  teaching focus, as well as sourcing some French Instagrams with an aesthetic  I would like.

Exposure to native speakers of French and content  intended for native speakers – broad exposure to structures, vocab, and culture  I may otherwise be unaware of.

No output from me (unless I interact with the  Instagrams in French)

iPhone: Changing language on iPhone to French

Only useful up to a certain point (once vocab for  common phone notifications is learnt)

May be frustrating when I am trying to go about  daily activities.

Netflix:

Preserves interest/motivation as language can be  explored without focusing on the task as a targeted learning activity.

Native speaker speed and pronunciation, as well as  slang and culture.

Some English movies/programs can be dubbed with  French – expands content available and possibly means I can watch content  that I’m already watching in French)

Youtube:

Gives a larger variety of content with which to  preserve interest/motivation.

Good way to gain access to various teaching  strategies for particularly challenging aspects of language.

Very self-guided -> can be very basic or very  challenging.

Due to volume of content could be difficult to  successfully locate useful resources.

Podcasts:

Countless options offered from lessons,  news-readings, audiobooks, talks etc.

Many offered at various levels of French  (purpose-made)

Not currently a habit of mine – often use my phone  to listen to things when I specifically want to relax (e.g. after work or  class), meaning that in such an occasion I may have to force myself into  this.

CEFR language level tests:

Will be frustrating on top of usual class assessment.

Potentially not very accurate as the tests I have source  seem to have only 20-30 questions on which to base their results. Therefore,  may be necessary to take tests from multiple sources each time.

Tests may recycle questions so that it would be  unwise for me to take the same test more than once over the course of this  challenge.

My plan:

Trying to add activities into my day that I can  reasonably attempt to incorporate as habits. This involves evaluating  technology that I already use on a daily basis in terms of how my use of each  may be altered slightly to increase French exposure.

Incorporating 4+ 30 minute or longer French  listening activities into each week (May be Netflix show, movie, podcast,  Youtube video).

Duolingo: Reaching 50XP per day.

Instagram: Because I already check Instagram almost  daily, I will make sure to properly read through the content from the French  Instagrams that I follow, making sure that I unpack the meaning completely.

iPhone: Changing language to French so that exposure  every day is unavoidable.

My evaluation approach:

My goal of achieving a final mark of 6.0 or higher  will be evaluated from the grades which I receive in my FREN2010 course at  university. I will additionally record results from class assessment on my  blog.

At the start of the challenge and every following  fortnight I will take an online French placement test based on the Common  European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL) learning levels. I will  change the source of such a test each time, and perhaps do multiple tests at  the same time, in order to increase accuracy of results.

Blog 1 Reflection:

I have intentionally designed my language learning challenge so that over the semester I can develop it in any way that I think is suitable. I have taken such an approach as this challenge must be incorporated into my daily life, and I want to go into the challenge from a practical perspective knowing that some aspects of the initial plan may be less realistic to fit into my lifestyle than others. Furthermore, I may discover that some aspects are less helpful for me in terms of achieving my learning goals than I thought they would be. Over the next week, I think it is important that I further evaluate my chosen technologies in terms of my goals and learning strategies, and do more research to explore other technologies which may be more useful for me in the context of this challenge. I would like to revise my plan for the challenge if necessary.

[thezodiaczone]

August Forecast for Taurus

There have been quantum changes in your life over the last couple months, Taurus—or at least, you have the sense that things are being rearranged on some grander scale. From uncomfortable to exciting to unsettling, this shift from potential to kinetic energy is part of a long process that’s happening from May 15, 2018, until April 2026 as revolutionizer Uranus visits your sign for the first time since 1942. Uranus takes 84 years to return to each sign, and this once-in-a-lifetime visit is an opportunity to radically reinvent everything from your lifestyle to your appearance to your attitude.

Whew! If you need a minute to take it all in, you’ll get it—and then some! On August 7, Uranus begins its annual five-month retrograde until January 7, 2019. You’ll get a chance to slow down and review, especially when Uranus backs into Aries, activating your twelfth house of closure for its last hurrah this century. While you might be a little frustrated by some stalled progress, this could prove to be a blessing in disguise. It’s an opportunity to confront any complex patterns and relationships and to heal addictions that are keeping you stuck.

As a creature of habit, you tend to tread the same well-worn paths, but those roads keep sending you to the same old places. Been there, done that! Stare any deep-seated fears in the eye, perhaps with the help of a pro, and begin clearing the blocks before Uranus settles into Taurus for a seven-year run in March 2019. You’ll want nothing to stand in the way of your awesome ascent—least of all your own baggage and blind spots.

August provides the occasion to relax and reflect as the Sun travels through Leo and your nurturing fourth house of home and family until August 23. Nesting and connecting with your crew feeds your soul during this homey solar season. Intimate dinner parties, air-conditioned movie nights, trips to an uncrowded beach where you can nap in the sand for hours: Hello, bliss! Take plenty of time for self-care, and keep your space serene.

This is especially important since Mercury, the planet of communication, travel and technology, will be retrograde in Leo from July 26 until August 19. During this wire-crossing backspin, old family feuds could flare, or you might experience friction with a relative or roommate. If you’re visiting loved ones, book a hotel or Airbnb, even if there’s “tons of room” at their place. During Mercury retrograde, it’s always best to have a backup plan. While this time is ripe for reunions, don’t be too quick to volunteer YOUR sleeper sofa or guest room to anyone. Make sure you’ve actually got time to host—and that the visitors are truly self-sufficient people who don’t expect white-glove service. If you’re moving or changing your home, Mercury could cause complications or slowdowns, so read the fine print!

Now that you’re clear on the precautions, get ready: A rare Leo partial solar (new moon) eclipse is arriving on August 11. Ready or not, your living situation or family structure could change, possibly without notice. Some Bulls could hear about a sweet deal on a property—and you’ll need to pounce instead of taking your usual “slow and sensible” approach. A female relative, perhaps your mother, could be involved in events near this eclipse. This is the penultimate eclipse in a series on the Leo/Aquarius axis that’s been transforming your home and career sectors since February 2017. It’s the prelude to a grand finale on January 21, 2019, so it may take until then for things to completely settle or reveal themselves. But if you reflect on the past two years, you’ll see how much you’ve grown—and maybe even radically changed—around home, family, career or work-life balance.

You may still be reeling from July’s two eclipses, especially the Aquarius total lunar (full moon) eclipse on July 27 that rocked your tenth house of professional ambition and long-term goals. This “awakening” put you in touch with what you truly need to feel fulfilled. Eclipses demand that we transform any parts of our lives that don’t work…and if we don’t, they’ll do it for us. For some Bulls, a job may have been eclipsed away—perhaps your company announced a restructuring, or a key colleague suddenly exited. Maybe you were offered a promotion or a leadership opportunity or a new position altogether. Resistance is futile—and a waste of energy—since something much better is on its way!

The last week of August takes a turn for the playful as the Sun enters Virgo and your fifth house of love, passion and self-expression for a month on August 23. Emerge from that cozy cocoon and start making audacious moves. If you’ve been off the grid, post some vacation pics or glam up and film an Instagram Story. Make up for lost social time and go paint the town crimson while your joie de vivre is at peak levels.

One of the month’s luckiest dates is August 25, when the Sun, structured Saturn and innovator Uranus form a rare grand trine—an equilateral “golden triangle” that’s one of astrology’s most auspicious aspects. As these three luminaries harmonize in earth signs, you get a triple shot of courage, assertiveness and head-turning fierceness. Presto, change-o: You could step out of a salon (or out of the metaphorical shadows) and be totally unrecognizable—yet indubitable. If you’ve been wanting to take a bold risk, you’ll get the guts to quit deliberating and actually DO it. Thanks to Saturn in your expansive ninth house, it could involve a life-changing vacation, going back to school, publishing your work or launching a startup biz. With Uranus and Saturn both retrograde, you may feel a pull toward the past. Did you start a project in one of these areas and set it on the back burner? Things could pick up speed now.

You don’t have to do this alone, either. On August 26, the year’s only Pisces full moon illuminates your eleventh house of teamwork and technology, giving you serious collaboration mojo. It’s an amazing day for networking, communing with kindred spirits or kicking off a cutting-edge joint project. You could be celebrating a group victory or gathering with your most vibrant and forward-thinking friends. With Mercury retrograde safely in the rearview from August 19 on, this could be a great date to launch a digital venture or viral social media campaign. The next day (August 27), ambitious Mars ends a two-month retrograde that slowed your goals. The cosmos will be waving that metaphorical red cape at you by the time the month ends, so get ready to charge after something that sets your heart and soul on fire.

Love & Romance

Self-care is sexy! On August 6, amorous Venus parades into Libra and your sixth house of wellness and service for the first of two trips this year, putting you in the mood to nurture yourself (and a lucky plus-one). Tackling a life-improvement mission or a project, like adopting a pet or redoing part of your home, could bring you closer. Single Bulls could meet someone through healthy pursuits, volunteering or even while running errands. There’s some incentive to stop procrastinating on your to-do list!

Heads up: This is the first of Venus’ two trips through Libra this year, thanks to a retrograde through this sign from October 31 to November 16. Plan ahead to avoid any stressful meltdowns later in the year. Be careful not to treat your mate like a fixer-upper, or to get overly involved in trying to help or change them. That could backfire during Round Two of this Venus transit, especially if you feel resentful or used. Maybe part of the lesson is to focus on yourself and things you can control, like getting healthier and treating yourself with the same kindness that you extend to others.

Under the Leo eclipse on August 11—and with Mercury retrograde alongside it in Leo and your domestic quarters until August 19—you have a perfect opportunity to “indulge” in some self-nurturing and maybe even catch up on your beauty sleep! If you’re newly dating or considering living with your partner, follow some Feng Shui principles to make your home more of a love den.

Meantime, the other love planet, fiery Mars, is retrograde from June 26 to August 27. Because this reversal had been taking place in Aquarius and your future-oriented tenth house, some big plans may have slowed down, or you may have been quarreling about shared goals. But once it backs into Capricorn on August 12 (for the duration of the retrograde), put the disagreements on ice and pursue something you enjoy doing together, like a favorite outdoor activity or returning to a cherished vacation spot. If things have been a little too close for comfort, bring some breathing room into the relationship—just enough so you don’t feel like you’re suffocating.

August 7 is a great day to peacefully hash things out if you’ve been feuding. With Venus in peacemaker Libra harmonizing with Mars in practical earth houses, you’ll be able to talk calmly and rationally. Show you’re willing to compromise, and your mate or love interest may be inspired to do the same. Plan a date somewhere beautiful and upscale, but also natural. Think: a farm-to-table restaurant with a chef’s tasting menu or an exclusive vineyard tour.

Key Dates

August 9: Venus-Saturn Square You may realize that a new relationship is moving too fast or that you’ve been leading someone on. Or you might experience the eye-opening awareness that your new “love interest” isn’t that interested at all. Saturn can help you make the necessary adjustments, including hitting the gas if you’ve been going under the speed limit.

Money & Career

Is it time to cash in a few vacation days? The cosmic influence of August will skew heavily toward home, family and fun, as the Sun travels through Leo and your domestic sector until August 23, and after that into your pleasure and playfulness zone when it takes a four-week plunge into Virgo. Make time for enjoyment and pampering before summer wraps up. September and October will be bustling months for you, so stop now to refill your tanks.

On top of that, Mercury, Mars, Saturn, Uranus (in Taurus), Neptune AND Pluto are all retrograde for most if not all of the month. With so many planets in this slowed-down position, August is best used to reflect and inspect. Avoid hasty moves—which aren’t really a Taurus thing anyway—and conduct your due diligence. Sleep on any big decisions that you don’t feel totally confident about, preferably under a big beach umbrella with your toes in the sand!

Career stuff has been all over the map ever since go-getter Mars turned retrograde in Aquarius and your tenth house of success on June 26, a biennial backslide that lasts for two months. Tension and crossed wires may have flared up at work, or you could be waiting rather impatiently for a decision maker to give you the green light. Thanks to a July 27 Aquarius lunar eclipse, things could be even topsy-turvier in your professional life. A project could be especially demanding or challenging, ratcheting up stress levels or causing you to procrastinate while obsessively fretting. All the more reason to take little self-care breaks in between marathon sessions!

You might want to tap a mentor or brush up your skills with a course, especially once Mars backs into Capricorn and your expansive ninth house on August 12 for the duration of its retrograde, which ends on August 27. Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew, as you’re at risk for over-promising and under-delivering. Pace yourself: Mars will rocket through Capricorn and Aquarius for a second, retrograde-free trip from August 27 to November 15, which will catalyze anything that got slowed down. You’ll be glad you did your research and refueled because things could start moving at warp speed!

Key Dates

August 2: Mars-Uranus Square You might not be in sync with a team under this “rugged individualist” angle of ego-tripping Mars and hotheaded Uranus. You could feel threatened by a person who comes on too strong and doesn’t listen to anyone. (Or maybe you’re the one acting that way?) Try to stay flexible—though under these volatile skies, that’s way easier said than done.

Love Days: 12, 17 Money Days: 6, 24 Luck Days: 4, 22 Off Days: 1, 15, 19

[fluffyasra]

Apprentice Questionnaire!

I figured, what better way to introduce my MC (and myself, and this blog) than by filling this out?! 

What is their full name? Elit Aroha Wingate

Zodiac sign: Aquarius (her birthday is February 14th)

In detail describe how they look: She is fairly short in stature, and a little chubby. She has long rosy blonde hair that falls in big, loose waves. She has a smattering of light freckles across her nose and cheeks, with a few light ones on her shoulders. Her eyes are a dark green and she has long, dark lashes. She has a small, straight nose, and ears that are ever so slightly larger than average, which she is very self conscious about. Although she is very soft, she has surprisingly small, bony wrists, and small hands and feet. 

How old are they? 21 years old

What clothes to they like to wear? She usually wears a loose white blouse that sits off her shoulders, and burgundy harem pants. She likes anything that’s comfortable and makes her look mysterious. She doesn’t like to show off her figure, although when she does she often gets complimented on her hourglass figure. 

What’s their favorite piece of clothing? A pink square scarf made of silk that she was given as a gift, although she can’t remember who gave it to her. She likes to use it to tie back her hair. 

Any piercings? Only two in her ear lobes. She’s afraid of the pain of other piercings. 

Do they have any other jewelry they wear? She has a rose quartz necklace, on a long leather thong. She also has a gold ring with a small heart-shaped ruby, and a matching bracelet, that she wears all the time. 

Any tattoos? No. She admires them on other people, but doesn’t have any of her own. 

How old are they? -//-

What do they smell like? She smells like jasmine, neroli, mandarins and Asra’s smoky tea.

What are their four trinkets? A small opal, her ruby ring, an elegant but chipped tea cup, and her pink slipper. 

GOVERNMENT MANDATED FERSONA A cat

What kind of magic are they good at? She is very creative and enjoys magic that reflects this. However, she can also be studious when necessary, and is able to quickly master even complex spells, as she is a fast learner. 

What kind of magic are they bad at? She has never been good at any kind of offensive magic, as she is too afraid of harming anyone around her to practice.

Of the four, six or seven magical elements which are they most connected to? Four: fire,air water earth. six: fire,air,water, wood,earth, metal. Seven:fire, air, water, wood, earth, metal, aither. Elit loves to be around water, which is reflected in her magic. She loves swimming, rainy weather, baths...anything that means she can be around water.

What does their gateway look like prior to their memory loss?  What does it look like afterwards? Prior to her memory loss, it’s lots of pink and gold tones. It looks like a sunset over a lake. Fluffy clouds, shimmering sunlight. Afterwards, it’s the same place, but all the colours have faded. There’s a silvery haze over the whole scene now. 

Do they have a familiar? If they do. What type of animal is it? What is it’s name? Is it still around after they lost their memory? She used to have a black cat named Bella (like Belladonna) but can’t remember her any more. Bella still hangs around, checking up on Elit, but Elit doesn’t realise the connection at the moment.

Have they ever cursed someone? No! She could never. She can hold a grudge though.

How do they handle those headaches/migraines? Sleep and tea are her ultimate remedy for everything. A huge cup of tea, and getting tucked up in her quilt are her favourite way to cope.

What tarot card do they connect the most with? Strength. She shines most through patience and compassion.

Where were they born? She was born in a busy coastal town with a big focus on fishing. Her family moved to Vesuvia for a lifestyle change, to move to what they perceived to be a higher class area.

What is their favorite color? Pink!

What is their least favorite color? Orange

Are they right handed, left handed or ambidextrous? Right handed

What were they like as a child? Elit was quietly curious, and very shy. She spent a lot of her time playing alone, or roping her parents into her games. She enjoyed exploring the beach in her hometown, and playing ‘house’. She did well at school and loved to read, but had few friends.

What were their parents like? Her mother was kind and gentle, but also exuberant and outgoing. She had many friends, and loved to entertain, hosting them for meals on a regular basis. She owned a tea house, which fit her personality well. She was friendly with most of her regular customers, and always had time to chat with them. Elit’s father was more serious and quiet, but still had a good, kind heart. He worked long hours as a book keeper for the bank in town. 

Do they have any siblings? If the answer is yes how many? No, Elit’s mother was very ill when she was pregnant and was advised not to risk a second child.

Do they have any other relatives they are close with? Elit used to be close with her cousins in her hometown, but didn’t really keep in touch when they moved, and now doesn’t remember them anyway.

What are they afraid of? She is terribly afraid of spiders and of losing Asra, as he is the only person close to her. 

What do they identify as? Female

Do they have any allergies? No.

Do they have any other medical problems? No. Elit is physically fairly healthy.

What about mental health issues? She struggles with anxiety, but has been working on improving her coping techniques and strategies.

What’s that personal hygiene regimen like? Elit loves to bathe, and is always very clean. 

Favorite rock or gemstone? Rose quartz, as it symbolises love to her. 

Favorite tree? Jacaranda. She loves the flowers.

Favorite type of weather? Rain!

Least favorite type of weather? Hot and humid.

What is their favorite season? She loves autumn, as the temperature is cool, and it rains often.

How many languages could they speak before the memory loss? How many do they currently speak? Before her memory loss, Elit could speak a local dialect of her hometown, but no longer remembers, so can only speak one. 

Do they sing or play any instruments? Elit loves to sing. She isn’t great, but definitely isn’t terrible either. She can play the harp.

What do they tend to joke about? Most of her jokes are quite self-deprecating.

After a stressful day how do they relax? With a bath with lots of oils, a huge mug of hot tea, and spending time alone. She loves being around Asra, but needs time to herself to relax.

Guilty pleasures? She secretly loves going to the marketplace, buying a whole loaf of fresh white bread, and eating it all while watching the shows people often put on for the children. 

idiosyncrasies? She will only drink out of mugs, never glassware. Elit is very sentimental, and keeps every card and letter she receives. She will find one thing that she loves to eat, and eat nothing else for a couple of weeks.

How do they act when they first meet someone new? How quickly do they warm up to them? Elit is very shy, and hates meeting new people. However, she has become quite good at putting on a front and acting friendly. It takes her a while to warm to someone, and is easily put off them.

In what order would they prioritize Love, fame, money, power, and knowledge? Love, knowledge, money, power, fame. 

List four or more things they love to do: Elit loves swimming, baking, singing, reading, learning new magic and visiting new and exciting places with Asra.

List four or more things they hate to do: She hates doing the dusting, and is attempting to formulate a spell to do this for her. She also hates being in large social situations, running and having to ask shop assistants for help.

List five or more things they have said that sum up who they are: “You big dummy!” “Yikes” “I love this song, it’s sooOOoOoOoooOO romantic!” “Excuse me, sir, but that is MY spot and nobody else can sit there.” “No, thank you.”

How do they react to (both verbal and physical) conflict? Elit is very passive, and avoids conflict wherever possible. If she finds herself in a situation, she is most likely to back down and let the other person win.

What kind of bad habits to they have? She is very messy, and is forever leaving her belongings lying around. She is also often inclined to be quite judgemental of others.

What kind of character faults do they have? She is absent minded and forgetful, which often leads to her having to start over on tasks, due to her losing focus halfway through. She can also occasionally come across as being very blunt, as she gets nervous and ends up just saying exactly what she means. 

What’s their best trait in their opinion? Physically, she likes her hands. Personality wise, she likes the way she looks after those she cares for.

What do they think of their appearance? Most of the time, she is fairly indifferent. She doesn’t think she’s anything special, but also doesn’t hate the way she looks. Although, she is often hung up about her weight.

How do they interact with people in a position of authority? Elit is very respectful, having grown up with such a serious father. She prefers speaking to people in these positions as there is a formula to follow when she talks, and she doesn’t have to think on her feet too much.

Who did they look up to as a kid? She always wanted to be like her mum, confident and well loved. She also admired the hardworking fishermen in her town, and respected their dedication.

How do they interact with kids? She doesn’t like babies and toddlers much, but loves children! She will happily join their games, and her imagination is almost as wild as theirs. 

Do they want kids of their own someday? She would love nothing more than to have her own family.

Are they religious? If so what god/goddess or gods/goddesses do they worship? Elit doesn’t follow any one religion, but likes to draw principles of kindness and respect from different areas. 

What do they think the meaning of life is? To love, and be loved.

What would they want their last words to be? To tell her family how much she loves them.

What do they want to do before they die? So many things! She wants to see more of the world, learn as much about magic as she possibly can, reconnect with relatives and fall in love (properly). 

What/how do they want to be remembered for after they die? For being sunshine in human form.

How do they express affection? In every way possible! Elit is very affectionate with those she truly cares about. She loves to give presents, and the people especially close to her are fortunate to receive her hugs. 

What do they normally eat for breakfast? She doesn’t often eat breakfast, but she loves pancakes. She would usually just have a cup of tea.

Do they like spicy food? Yes! 

Favorite fruit and/or vegetable? Her favourite fruits are tropical ones like pineapples, melons, and mangoes. She much prefers vegetables though, and particularly like courgettes.

Do they like sweets? Elit has a huge sweet tooth.

Do they drink alcohol? If they do, what do they act like when they’re drunk? She does drink, but not all that often. She is a huge flirt and overly affectionate when she’s drunk, which has got her into some awkward situations!

How do they take their tea/coffee? Her tea is always clean, no milk or sugar, but on the rare occasion she has coffee, she likes it with lots of frothed up milk.

What food would they refuse to eat? She can’t stand eggplant.

Is there anything they eat that most people would find unappealing? Elit loves most seafood, and really likes mushrooms. 

When going on the road what food could they not live without? Bread!

What meal gives them a sense of nostalgia? Baked fish is something her mum often made. Fragrant with lemon and fresh herbs, the smell evokes a nostalgic feeling inside her that she cannot currently place.

What do they do when no one’s around? She loves to sing and dance like crazy to get out any excess energy. She is also quite partial to a snoop through Asra’s things.

How would they react if a prized possession got stolen? She would cry, and enlist the help of everyone she could to get it back.

What’s the first thing they would buy if they won the lottery? A private bathhouse. 

What would their favorite modern invention be? Tumblr! She would enjoy the connection with likeminded people without having to physically meet them. 

In a new unfamiliar place what do they do? Explore! Elit loves new places. She would, however, prefer Asra to be by her side though.

Someone just threatened them what do they do? Try to calm and soothe the person. She doesn’t do conflict, so would try to avoid the situation.

A rather well rich looking woman just dropped her purse and didn’t notice. What do they do? Return it (and secretly hope for a reward!).

What’s the worst thing someone has said to them? That she doesn’t deserve her happiness.

What is the strangest thing they’ve ever come across? Asra has loads of...interesting things in his possession that she’s found while snooping, But she can never ask about them, because then he’ll know she was snooping.

Someone just stole food from them what do they do? Let them, and not say anything, but inside be annoyed.

They meet a man at a crossroads. The man says they can have everything they’ve ever wanted. What happens next? She would be curious, but her inner cynic would take over. She’d say “no thank you” and leave. 

As a child what would they say they wanted to be as an adult?  ie. When I grow up I’m going to _______ She would have loved to be a writer.

What’s their D&D alignment? Chaotic good.

What is the stupidest thing they’ve ever done? As a child, she almost caused a fire by trying to melt marshmallows using the heating in her bedroom. 

Have they ever got in trouble with the law or been arrested? No, even if she had done anything to warrant her arrest, Elit is sneaky enough to not get caught.

Do they know how to win a fight? Probably not.

Are they good at hand to hand combat? Again, probably not. She can hold her own for a while, but would be unlikely to win.

Have they ever stolen something? When she was a kid, Elit used to steal small tokens from people and give them to her friends as gifts.

Have they ever killed someone? No!

What/who do they find disgusting? She is terribly squeamish and is disgusted by anything medical or otherwise that would trigger this.

What upsets them the most? Unrequited love. Either her own, or when her friends are pining after someone.

What anime character would they be? Nagisa from Free!

What disney character would they be? Snow White

What monster would they be? Some kind of ghoul

What mythological figure would they be? Undine

List three songs that you associate with them. Let Me Down Slowly by Alec Benjamin, broken by lovelytheband, and Take My Breath Away by Berlin.