#tips to excel

[harmonyhealinghub]

Acing Your Finals: Tips and Tricks to Succeed in School

Shaina Tranquilino

January 25, 2024

It's that time of the year again – finals season! As students, we all experience a mixture of stress and excitement during this period. However, with proper planning and effective strategies, you can conquer your exams with confidence. In this blog post, we will share some valuable tips and tricks to help you get through your finals successfully.

1. Start early and create a study schedule: Procrastination is an enemy you must defeat when it comes to preparing for finals. Starting early allows you to cover material thoroughly without cramming. Create a realistic study schedule that allocates specific times for each subject or topic, ensuring you have ample time to revise before the exam day.

2. Organize your study space: A cluttered desk equals a cluttered mind. Find a quiet, well-lit area where you can focus solely on your studies. Keep all necessary materials like textbooks, notebooks, and stationery within reach so that you don't waste precious studying time searching for them.

3. Use active learning techniques: Instead of passively reading through notes or textbooks, engage in active learning techniques such as summarizing information in your own words, teaching concepts to others (or even imaginary friends!), creating flashcards, or practicing problem-solving exercises. Active learning enhances understanding and retention of knowledge.

4. Prioritize challenging subjects/topics: Identify the subjects or topics that pose significant challenges for you and allocate more study time accordingly. Tackling difficult areas first ensures that you have enough energy and concentration to grasp complex concepts fully.

5. Collaborate with classmates: Forming study groups with classmates can be highly beneficial as it promotes discussion, aids in clarifying doubts, and provides different perspectives on the subject matter. Explaining concepts to others also reinforces your understanding of the material.

6. Take regular breaks: Studying continuously without taking breaks can lead to burnout and reduced productivity. Divide your study sessions into manageable chunks of time, followed by short breaks to relax and recharge. Incorporate activities like stretching or going for a walk to refresh your mind.

7. Practice past exams or sample questions: Familiarize yourself with the format and style of previous exams or sample questions relevant to your subjects. This practice helps you understand the exam's structure, identify common patterns, and gain confidence in tackling similar questions during the actual test.

8. Get sufficient sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle: Pulling all-nighters might seem tempting, but it ultimately hampers cognitive function and retention. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to enhance memory consolidation and concentration levels. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in physical activity contribute to overall well-being during this stressful period.

9. Seek for help when needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to teachers, tutors, or classmates if you encounter difficulties while studying. Asking for clarification or discussing challenging concepts can provide valuable insights and help clear any confusion.

10. Stay positive and manage stress: Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial throughout finals season. Avoid negative self-talk or comparisons with others' progress – focus on your own growth instead. Take regular breaks for relaxation activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or pursuing hobbies that bring joy.

The path to success during finals lies in effective planning, diligent effort, and adopting healthy study habits. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be better equipped to tackle your exams confidently while minimizing stress levels along the way. Remember that preparation is key – stay focused, keep calm, and give it your best shot! Good luck!

[lamusedhermes]

Curate everything.

Curate your hygiene routine, curate your clothing items, curate your home, curate your habits, curate your nutrition, curate your environment, curate your circles, curate you socials, curate the content you consume, curate your social skills, curate your financial situation, curate your emotions, curate the version of you that shows up in public, curate your hobbies, curate your knowledge.

[thesophistiicate]

btw curating a beautiful environment is about honouring yourself. when you choose to surround yourself with things that are well-made, thoughtfully designed, and meaningful, you affirm that your daily experience matters. investing in quality over convenience sends a subconscious message of self-worth that is completely foundational to building a better life.

[femmefatalevibe]

Femme Fatale Guide: Simple Ways To Look "Effortlessly" Put Together

A fresh haircut

Maintaining a regular skincare routine 2x/day

Applying SPF daily

Exfoliating 2-3x/week

Moisturizing all your skin daily

Dermaplane your face

Do a skin/hair mask weekly

Flossing daily & using a whitening toothpaste

Filled in (but natural-looking) brows

Wearing mascara, light concealer, and a hydrating lip balm/"you lips but better" cosmetics shade

Cut, file, and polish your nails. Keep it clean & simple

Invest in seamless and proper-fitting undergarments

Wear neutral, monochrome outfits that incorporate tailored cuts in luxurious fabrics that pair well together

Use a steamer/lint roller on your clothes before heading out the door

Invest in high-quality, well-structured handbags and shoes that pair well with almost any outfit

Put on a precious or sleek statement piece (or two potentially in the former case) of jewelry to elevate your look. Don't overdo it

Applying a few sprays of a signature scent that suits the season/occasion

[maesonc-artistic-adventures]

Based on Chapt 13 of @cutebutalsostabby ‘s fanfic “Big Oof 2022, aka Whumptober”

“‘You,’ Hyrule declared furiously, ‘are an absolute, complete dumbass.’

Lying prone on the ground with a deeply pissed-off mage looming above his head, it was rather difficult for Warriors to argue the point. He gave a weak thumbs up and croaked back, ‘Yep.’

Hyrule shook his head disbelievingly and announced, ‘You and Legend give me shit for this all the time, but you’re both equally as bad.’

Warriors nodded. ‘Very true,’ he rasped peaceably. ‘Be sure to learn from our bad examples.’”

————————————

Hyrule and Warrior’s dynamic is so excellent and few do it as well as this fic!

[colebabey888]

Study Tips | THE IT GIRL DIARIES

As the academic year begins to wrap up, things can get stressful with extra workload and faster lessons. I've definitely been a victim of this but unfortunately, I can't afford to slack off if I want that degree, so I began implementing a few tips and tricks into my study method that has helped me a lot.

Summarize and Recite Notes

If you’re good at remembering things like speech notes, try “paragraph summarizing” Those who did orals in pre school, high-school and were good at it, will know exactly what I'm talking about. I take a week’s material and shrink it down to a few key paragraphs with main ideas and keywords. Then, read these notes out loud as if you’re practicing for a presentation. This helps me remember faster. On occasion I make q-cards for harder or more learning material but very rarely.

Use AI !

When I come across hard words or ideas, I use AI tools like ChatGPT or Google. Copy your tricky material, paste it into the tool, and ask it to “explain like I’m five” AI turns it into simple, easy language, making it much easier to understand and remember. This can be so helpful when it comes to work that requires having a good understanding of the topic to actually excel in it. Think of AI as your study buddy that already knows everything. For those who struggle to speak up in class or ask for help, AI is the solution. You can ask the dumbest questions ever and not be judged lmao. Progressive learning 101.

My 3 Step Muscle Memorization

Step 1 : Type out a summary of your notes on your laptop or computer, whatever digital device you choose, I prefer a laptop.

Step 2 : Copy and rewrite them by hand on paper

Step 3 : With a blank sheet alongside you, rewrite your summaries onto it without looking at it, so you'll read off your summaries on your previous page but with your other hand, rewrite it on the blank page. I call it "scribble memorizing" Repeat this until you can do it without looking at your summaries. I do this to basically practice muscle memory so my hand knows what to write without me having to think about it first.

mwah! xoxo, colebabey8.88

[cryptke]

Literal top priority for your own consistent success is learning not to care what people think/convincing yourself it does not matter. It truly does not and never will. It's human nature to seek validation thru peer approval but the biggest and genuinely only literal obstacle in life, in many cases, is your own fear of looking dumb and the inability to take initiative because of it. There are so many things that I did in the public eye and felt self conscious about like posting a brand deal or doing specific things for certain jobs because i was aware certain people *might* possibly see and thus form a fleeting opinion. And then I started rationalizing it to myself like wtf it's not as if they're paying my bills? So why would i let a literal hypothetical reaction prevent me from taking risks/taking on new experiences so that I can pay mine. And it literally changed something in my brain. Like truly even if someone dogs u to your actual face about something you do/post, it's not as if you're still somehow achieving anything by not doing said thing in the first place. So view it from the perspective that the only person ACTUALLY being effected is you. And I wholeheartedly assure u a thousand times over that people do not care half as much as what you think they do. People have so much else to do on a day to day basis than put effort into thinking of you (unless you're like partners etc obviously.) much less debate between themselves whether you're embarrassing or not?? Like if a coworker of mine or acquaintance or family member etc even did or said something GENUINELY embarrassing I'd still only think about it for 12 seconds and completely move on with life. And that is something to find genuine comfort in!

[weareravershq]

[sk-lumen]

High Value Woman Formula: The 4 Key Pillars

Are you passionate about leveling up, but find yourself daunted by the overwhelming list on how to become a high value woman?

Don’t fret, you’re probably not the only one! It may sound complicated at first glance, but when you truly understand what it’s about, the high value woman formula is… quite simple.

In this article, I will show you an easy and concise roadmap to becoming the woman of your own dreams.

Let’s get started.

Pillar #1: Body

Much like Maslow’s pyramid, in order to have a mind that is clear, a heart that is at peace, and a soul that is fulfilled, you need to first attend to your basic physical needs (and not only).

Getting enough hours of sleep

A healthy diet

Fitness & exercise

Haircare

Nails

Skin

Dental health

Make-up

Pillar #2: Mind

Next ingredient in the high value woman formula is polishing your mind.

Upgrading your looks and physical health is great, but if you don’t follow it up with a mindset glow up, you’ll find yourself repeating the same mistakes, and bumping into the same limiting beliefs and bad habits.

Planning goals and keeping track of them

Improving your mindset / develop a growth mindset

Confidence

Embrace failure

Reading extensively to broaden your mind and your education (includes financial education)

Courses, trainings and masterclasses

Listening to podcasts

Watching TedTalks or insightful documentaries (if you’re curious about my recs for TedTalks/documentaries, let me know in comments below)

Pillar #3: Heart

So you’ve leveled up your appearance, improved your mind, now what? Now it’s all about your heart and your emotions. Think about all the things that nurture your emotional dimension and makes you feel appreciated, seen and heard!

Building a support system (friends, family, therapy)

Therapy

Healing your attachment style

Journaling

Self Love

Setting boundaries

Being your authentic self

Speaking your truth

Embracing your journey

Feeling & processing your emotions

Pillar #4: Soul

Last but not least, I’m a spiritual woman, and these are my personal beliefs which some may or may not resonate with. If that’s the case and you’re happy with just the 3 first pillars, that’s perfectly valid and you can skip this section.

But I do believe you have to take care of your soul. You can have the looks, the money and your self-concept in line, but you might still feel empty, unfulfilled, like something is missing from your life… if you ignore the spiritual aspect.

For the girlies that need a deeper connection to the divine, to God, the universe, here are a few action steps.

Joining a community that resonates with you

Prayer

Yoga

Meditation

Various spiritual practices that align with your beliefs

Detoxing from social media, toxic people or environments

Conclusion

What do you think about this list, did you find it helpful? Are there any essentials you’d add to the list? Let me know in the comments below.

This is a topic I believe many women (and not only) would benefit from, and I’m passionate about helping my readers become their best selves.

So, I’m currently working on an in-depth guide that expands on this topic/article, complete with practical steps you can implement in your daily life, in order to become a High Value Woman.

💖 If you want to be the first to hear about the HVW ebook's launch make sure to join my Soultribe! 💖

🎀 More glow up articles and guides on sklumen.com 🎀

[cosmicdiaries]

My personalized version of 75 hard days challenge

Since I was rooting for quite a few days and the only positive thing I did was to attend all my classes dutifully and do my assignments, I'm going to start doing this 75 hard days challenge to build my discipline once and for all. But I'm personalizing it for my own life style.

-Follow a Diet (No junk food, no eating after 10 pm so I can sleep comfortable)

-Workout (Stretch and meditation in the mornings before starting my day, calisthenics in the afternoon)

-Drink 1650 ml of water everyday (I counted the needed amount of water based on my weight in an app)

-Read 10-20 pages of book

Rules:

No Skipping or Modifications – If you miss even one task, you restart from Day 1.

No Cheat Days – You must stick to all rules without exception.

[lamusedhermes]

Taller than me, richer than me, CHALANT, funny, manly, great sense of style, intelligent, pretty, smells good, kisses the floor I walk on, profound personality.

[thesophistiicate]

the secret to living a calm and confident life lies in being organised and prepared. when you are always scrambling, searching, stumbling, you create an energy of chaos. part of respecting yourself is adequately preparing yourself for what lies ahead, through organisation and practise.

[femmefatalevibe]

Femme Fatale Guide: Healthy Habits To Look & Feel Your Best Without Restriction or Unrealistic Routines

Realistic ways to maintain a healthy life/body/appearance (size and weight are all personal, not the most important metric – for certain). No diet culture or delulu-land tips here.

What I've done to maintain my 30-pound weight loss for over a decade, glowing clear skin (no pimples or discoloration, etc.), and super healthy, full & shiny hair, still living life and enjoying it – the mindful way.

Eat home-cooked meals & (plant-based) whole foods – 90-95% of the time

Incorporate at least 1 salad into my daily routine (either a large, hearty lunch salad or a simple green salad as a starter with dinner)

Include at least 1 fruit/vegetable in every meal or snack

Never restrict food groups – whole grains/potatoes, healthy fats, protein-rich plant foods, and produce are all essential to consume every day

Focus on meals, but have whole food snack options on hand to enjoy if genuinely hungry (mainly fruit, lupini beans, edamame, carrots/celery/cucumber with hummus, plain popcorn, handful of almonds/cashews)

Have breakfast after one coffee (before a second) and have dinner late enough (8-9:30 pm) to curb late-night hunger

Only have fruit and tea after dinner; Always stop consuming food at least 3 hours before bed for better sleep/digestion

Order whatever I want when going out to eat, but split dessert

Have at least one indulgent meal/dessert per week

No sugary cocktails – wine, champagne/prosecco, martinis, gin & tonic, margarita, French Connection, Sambuca, Grappa, tequila on the rocks, etc. are great options. Bellinis/fruit plus wine/spirits cocktails are a good middle ground. Sugary drinks worsen the hangover – big-time

Perceive healthy eating as a form of enjoyment, creativity, and nourishment, not restriction or deprivation (it's not if done liberally enough)

Consume a vitamin B12 and vitamin D supplement daily. Keep digestive enzymes on hand for when they're necessary

Always have a large glass of water first thing in the morning (before coffee) and by my side all day long

No soda, juices, sugary drinks, etc. Black coffee, tea, and water only on the daily – wine and no-sugar alcoholic drinks on rare occasions. Smoothies can be a great snack or breakfast, though!

Incorporate an (almost) daily walk into my schedule as a form of exercise and a mental health reset (I aim for 4-5 miles/10Kish steps per day on average)

Do short, low-impact strengthen training exercises 3x a week (15-30 mins each usually) for bone health & toning

Never forcing myself to do strenuous exercise/workout formally in a gym – it's not for me; it doesn't make me feel/look better and throws my hunger & energy levels way off. To each their own, though

Have a variety of playlists ready to go for waking up, working, dancing, walking/workouts, doing chores, and reading/relaxing

Internalizing that sexual health is a core aspect of your health & well-being – on all counts

Maintaining a simple skincare routine 2x per week with high-quality products and a couple of weekly treatments

Prioritizing my body care routine with as much as my facial skincare routine

Wearing at least SPF 30 daily

Exfoliating 2-3x per week

Learning what hair products work for my hair type; Using a deep conditioning mask and a scalp mask weekly

Using only cold water when washing my hair

Incorporating face & body massages into my weekly at-home routine

Using Uriage lip balm, hand cream, and deodorant religiously

Flossing 1-2 times a day/using an electric toothbrush

[theglowsociety]

Why More Black Women Should Start Black-Owned Businesses (Especially in the Beauty Industry) & How to Begin Your Side Hustle

Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S., yet they continue to face systemic barriers that make business ownership more challenging. Despite having limitless creativity, an unmatched work ethic, and a deep influence on global culture—especially in beauty—many Black women struggle to secure funding, resources, and opportunities to thrive as business owners.

If you’ve been dreaming of starting your own beauty brand, salon, or cosmetics line, there has never been a better time to turn that passion into a business. Here’s why Black women must step into entrepreneurship—especially in the beauty industry—and how to start your own side hustle today.

1. We Set the Trends—Now It’s Time to Profit from Them

From hairstyles to skincare techniques, makeup trends to nail art, Black women have shaped the beauty industry for centuries. Yet, major brands have historically ignored our needs while profiting off our culture. Instead of letting corporations capitalize on our creativity, we should be owning, producing, and profiting from the trends we create.

2. Representation Matters in Beauty

For too long, Black women have been an afterthought in the beauty industry. Shade ranges were too limited, haircare products were full of harmful ingredients, and industry leadership was overwhelmingly non-Black. When Black women start their own beauty businesses, they create products that genuinely cater to our unique needs—made by us, for us.

3. Building Generational Wealth & Financial Freedom

Starting a business isn’t just about making money—it’s about creating long-term financial freedom. Entrepreneurship allows Black women to break free from traditional workplace barriers (like wage gaps and lack of career advancement) and build generational wealth that can be passed down to future generations.

4. Owning Your Creativity & Power

Working for someone else can limit how much creative freedom you have. As a business owner, you make the rules. You decide what products to create, how to market them, and how to shape your brand identity. No more waiting for corporate approval—you are the CEO.

5. The Beauty Industry Is Booming (and There’s Room for You!)

The beauty industry is a multi-billion dollar business, and Black consumers spend nine times more on beauty products than any other demographic. Yet, Black-owned beauty brands still make up only a small fraction of the market. This means there is plenty of opportunity for new entrepreneurs to step in and claim their space.

How to Start Your Own Side Hustle & Step Into Entrepreneurship

Not sure where to begin? Here’s how to start building your Black-owned beauty business—whether it’s a full-time venture or a side hustle you grow over time.

1. Find Your Passion & Niche

Ask yourself: What excites you most about the beauty industry? Do you love makeup, skincare, haircare, nails, or holistic beauty? Choose a niche that aligns with your passion and expertise.

Examples of Beauty Business Ideas:

• Haircare line (natural hair products, wigs, or extensions)

• Skincare brand (body butters, serums, or organic skincare)

• Cosmetics line (lip gloss, foundation, or lashes)

• Nail business (press-on nails, custom nail polish)

• Beauty services (makeup artist, esthetician, braider, or loctician)

2. Research & Learn the Industry

Before launching, take time to research the market. Look at your competitors, pricing, and target audience. Follow beauty industry trends and study successful Black beauty entrepreneurs for inspiration.

3. Start Small (You Don’t Need a Huge Budget!)

You don’t need thousands of dollars to start. Begin with a small, high-quality product or service, test it with friends and family, and grow from there.

Low-Cost Ways to Start:

• Private label products (buying wholesale and branding them as your own)

• Handmade products (lip gloss, body butters, or hair oils)

• Drop shipping (selling beauty products without managing inventory)

• Offering services (braiding, lash extensions, or makeup artistry)

4. Create Your Brand Identity

Your brand is more than just a name—it’s your vibe, mission, and story. Pick a business name, logo, and aesthetic that speaks to your audience.

Quick Branding Tips:

• Choose a name that’s easy to remember and spell

• Create a color scheme and aesthetic for your brand

• Use social media (Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are huge for beauty brands)

• Share your story—customers connect with authenticity!

5. Build an Online Presence & Market Your Business

Social media is everything in the beauty industry. Create an Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube account to showcase your products or services. Offer tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and customer testimonials to build trust.

Marketing Ideas:

• Post beauty tutorials using your products

• Collaborate with beauty influencers or micro-influencers

• Offer discounts or giveaways to attract customers

• Start a website or Etsy shop to sell online

6. Stay Consistent & Keep Learning

Entrepreneurship is a journey. Not every day will be easy, but consistency is key. Keep learning, adapting, and refining your business as you grow. Join Black business networking groups, attend beauty expos, and seek mentorship from successful entrepreneurs.

It’s Time to Claim Your Spot in the Beauty Industry

The world needs more Black women-owned businesses, especially in the beauty space. If you have a passion for hair, skin, makeup, or wellness, this is your sign to step into entrepreneurship. Your ancestors paved the way for you to create, own, and build something that lasts for generations.

Start small, dream big, and remember—you were born to shine. Let’s turn our passion into profit and make our mark on the beauty industry. It’s time to secure the bag and the legacy.

[theblackfemininesociety]

Very B.F.S, Very Supportive, Very Demure.

Join the IT GIRL community! 🤎✨

Hey bestie, we are currently expanding our community and growing our sisterhood on Discord. Think of it as the girls girl group chat you never knew you needed! 💐

👑 Come join, “The Ladies Room” 💋 This is a safe, elevating, fun space to let loose, find like minded woman and make meaningful connections.

Need more info: click here to see our introduction post!

Accept the invite and join today !

JOIN NOW

[dblsoul]

elite four rika i love you 🧎‍♂️ i got so cold taking these pics and it was an uphill battle against the colour balance while editing but it was worth it bc it was really fun and i love how they came out 🥰

📸 @/piss.brain (instagram)