Lifestyle

Getting Out of a Slump: A No-Nonsense Guide

Need help getting out of a slump? I get it. I’ve spent plenty of time in bed scrolling through Pinterest, looking for that magical, inspirational post that would somehow make everything better. Some days are just hard. And sometimes those hard days turn into hard weeks. But you can get through this.

Here’s what works.

Working With Your Seasons

First, I want to talk about something many people overlook – how deeply seasonal energy can affect us.

Winter naturally causes our energy to dip. Instead of fighting this, work with it. Use these quieter months for planning and reflection. Get outside during daylight hours when possible, keep a consistent sleep schedule, and most importantly – stop feeling guilty about needing more rest. It’s natural.

Spring brings a gradual energy increase. This is the perfect time for small changes – a morning walk, learning something new, or reorganizing one space in your home. Start small and let momentum build naturally.

Summer’s extra daylight naturally boosts energy and motivation. Use this time for bigger projects or changes you’ve been considering. The increased vitamin D exposure doesn’t hurt either.

Autumn is for evaluating and adjusting course. What’s working? What isn’t? Start preparing for winter by establishing routines that will carry you through the darker months.

I know you’re probably thinking “All right, sure, but what can I do right now?” I’ve got you…

Quick Fixes for Right Now

Start with the basics. Check in with yourself: When’s the last time you drank water? How has your sleep been? Are you eating regular meals? Have you been moving your body? I know these things sound simple, but they really are the foundation that everything else builds on.

Women drinking water and getting enough sleep.

Next, take a look around your space. Sometimes, just making the smallest changes can make the biggest difference. Open windows – fresh air can shift your entire mood. Clear one surface – just one. Make your bed. These might seem trivial, but they’re actually powerful first steps out of a slump.

Managing Your Energy

One thing I’ve learned? Most people focus on managing their time when they should be managing their energy. You can have all the hours in the day, but if your energy’s shot, those hours aren’t worth much.

Try this: For one week, just notice your natural patterns. When do you feel sharp and focused? When do you feel foggy? What activities drain you? Which ones give you energy? Don’t try to change anything yet – just pay attention.

Once you know your patterns, you can work with them instead of against them. If you know you’re useless before coffee, stop scheduling important meetings at 8 AM. If afternoon sunlight makes you sleepy, close the blinds or move your workspace.

Let’s talk about those energy drains we all have but ignore. That two-hour meeting that could be an email? Energy drain. Endless social media scrolling? Major drain. (Just ask my husband *sigh*). That friend who always needs help with their crisis? Huge drain. Start setting boundaries around these energy vampires. Your energy is precious – treat it that way.

Breaking Through Mental Blocks

Let’s talk about those mental blocks that keep you stuck. You know the ones – waiting to feel “ready” before you start something, comparing yourself to everyone else’s highlight reels, thinking if you can’t do something perfectly it’s not worth doing at all.

Here’s a trick that works: When you catch your mind spinning in those negative thoughts, change something physical right away. Try standing up if you’re sitting. Step outside if you’re inside. Put on music if you’ve been sitting in silence. Sounds too simple to work, right? But it does. It breaks the pattern.

Stop asking yourself “Why can’t I get anything done?” (that just makes you feel worse) and start asking “What’s one tiny thing I could try differently?” It’s amazing how shifting from criticism to curiosity can open up new possibilities.

Keep a few go-to strategies in your back pocket for when you’re really stuck:

Write down what’s spinning in your head
Talk to yourself like you’d talk to a friend (seriously, it helps)
Set a timer for just five minutes
Break things down into ridiculously small steps

The key is having these tools ready before you need them. When you’re in the thick of it, it’s hard to think clearly about solutions.

Daily Habits That Build Momentum

Building momentum to get out of a slump doesn’t happen overnight – it’s all about the small, consistent actions you take day after day. Just like how making tiny deposits into a savings account can eventually grow into a substantial nest egg, doing little things to support yourself each day can add up to a big shift in how you feel.

Collage of women - having coffee outside, making the bed, walking outdoors, to depict tiny habits to get out of a slump.

So start small. Pick one tiny habit that makes you feel good and commit to doing it every day. Maybe it’s taking five minutes to sit in the sun with your morning coffee. Or jotting down your three must-dos for the next day before you go to bed. Or taking a quick walk after lunch. The key is to be consistent.

You know what makes a bigger difference than most people realize? Your daily routines. I’m not talking about those picture-perfect morning routines you see on Instagram. I’m talking about the basic, everyday stuff that anchors your day.

Having some kind of morning routine, even a super simple one, can make a huge difference in how you feel going into the day. Pick something that actually feels good to you, not what you think you “should” do. Maybe it’s taking ten minutes to read a book you enjoy while you have your coffee. Or doing some gentle stretches. Or jotting down a quick list of what you want to get done that day. Keep it simple and doable.

Same goes for the end of the day. Taking just a few minutes to tidy up one small area or write out your top priorities for tomorrow can help you start the next day feeling more grounded and in control.

The power is in the consistency. It’s like building a muscle – you don’t go from couch potato to bodybuilder after one trip to the gym. You build strength through showing up and doing those reps, day after day. The same is true for getting out of a slump.

Pick one small thing and just focus on doing it every day. Don’t put pressure on yourself to transform overnight. Just zero in on nailing that one tiny habit. And if you mess up, oh well. Just get back on it the next day.

Social connection is key too. I know, I know – when you’re deep in a slump, socializing is probably the last thing on your mind. But trust me, it matters.

Like I said, I get it. When you’re in the middle of a slump, the last thing you probably want to do is put on real pants and go be social. It can feel like an overwhelming amount of effort when just getting out of bed is a struggle. But as tempting as it is to isolate yourself, we gotta remember that human connection is like fuel for our souls. It’s a basic need, like food and water. Ease into it slowly, in bite-sized ways that don’t make you want to hide under your covers forever.

Collage of women socializing to get out of a slump.

One way to dip your toe back into social waters is to find some low-pressure ways to connect. Online communities focused on stuff you’re into can be a great starting point. You can just lurk and read other people’s posts at first if that’s all you’ve got the bandwidth for. But just knowing there are other people out there who get it can be really comforting when you’re feeling isolated.

Another thing that can help is giving yourself a specific role or reason to show up. Volunteering for a cause you care about, joining a book club, signing up for a class in something you’ve always wanted to learn – having that structure and sense of purpose can make the whole socializing thing feel a little less daunting.

And hey, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. If big group hangouts feel like too much right now, start with some one-on-one time with people you feel comfortable with. Grab coffee with a coworker you click with. Text that friend who always makes you laugh. Baby steps totally count.

The goal isn’t to suddenly become a social butterfly. It’s just to slowly start weaving a little more connection into your days, in whatever way feels right for you. Cause as much as your inner voice might try to convince you that you’re better off alone when you’re in a funk – we all need a bit of backup sometimes. Having a few solid people in your corner can make all the difference.

Moving forward when you’re in a slump is never a perfectly smooth ride. Some days will feel easier than others. The trick is to just keep inching forward, even on the hard days. Even when you can’t see it, those small steps are adding up. One day you’ll realize how much ground you’ve covered.

Stick with it. Keep showing up for yourself in whatever small ways you can. It won’t always be pretty, but you’ll get there. I believe in you.

Looking for more inspiration to get to that feel-good place? Check out the FP Seasonal Glow-Up Journey!

Hustle Culture is Out – Hello Balance

Remember when everyone was bragging about their 4 am wake-up calls and 16-hour workdays? Yeah, we’re so over that. Say goodbye to the hustle culture.

Here’s what’s being discovered: those who are really crushing it aren’t running themselves into the ground. They’re not choosing between success and sanity. They’re finding a sweet spot where ambition meets well-being – and they’re actually getting better results.

Look around at some of the most successful women of our time – they’re not bragging about their sleep deprivation anymore. They’re advocating a new way of thinking about success. They’re saying goodbye to the hustle.

Take Arianna Huffington’s story. She was at the top of her game, running a major media empire when her body finally said “enough.” One day in 2007, she was so burned out that she actually passed out at her desk, broke her cheekbone, and needed stitches. Nothing like a trip to the ER to make you rethink your relationship with work, right? It was the push she needed to see that success at any cost… well, costs too much.

After that scary wake-up call, Arianna did a total 180. She dove into learning about what actually makes us thrive (spoiler alert: it’s not working 24/7). Turns out, pushing ourselves to burnout doesn’t just feel awful – it actually makes us worse at our jobs. So she started doing things differently. She made sleep a non-negotiable, gave meditation a try, and – get this – actually set work boundaries while running one of the biggest news sites out there. And guess what? The world didn’t end when she stopped answering emails at midnight.

Today, through Thrive Global, she’s showing us what sustainable success actually looks like. Her organization works with companies worldwide to implement well-being programs that challenge the “always on” mentality. She advocates for what she calls “microsteps” – small, science-backed changes that can transform workplace culture. From introducing “meeting-free” days to encouraging employees to take real lunch breaks, she’s demonstrating how success and well-being can coexist.

Even Brené Brown knows when to hit pause. In early 2022, she did something pretty bold – she told everyone she was going completely off-grid. No social media, no speaking gigs, no nothing. Just time to breathe and think.

But what made this really cool? She looked at her team and thought, “Why should I be the only one who gets to recharge?” So she gave everyone six weeks of paid time off to truly unplug. Not just a long weekend or a quick vacation – real, meaningful time away. How many bosses do you know who’d do that?

When they all came back, something clicked. The whole team was buzzing with fresh ideas and energy. It just showed what Brené had known all along – sometimes you need to step away from the spotlight to remember why you stepped into it in the first place.

The Real Cost of Constant Hustle

Think about the cost of that non-stop hustle lifestyle. It’s probably costing you a lot more than you think. Your best ideas don’t show up when you’re exhausted, and those “quick wins” might actually be blocking bigger opportunities. When you’re always “too busy,” relationships suffer, and that stressed-out energy? It’s pushing away the very things you’re working so hard for.

A woman burned out at work. Representing the hustle culture.

Think about your last great idea or breakthrough moment. Did it come when you were pushing yourself to exhaustion, or did it arrive in a moment of clarity? Most of us find our best insights come when we have space to actually think.

Plus, there’s nothing impressive about burnout. Trust me, I’ve been there. There are months on end that I’ve sat at this desk 12-14 hours a day – thinking I was being productive when I was really just being busy. The irony is that this constant pushing often makes us less effective, not more.

Balance is about being smart with your energy. When you take time to recharge between sprints, something clicks. You come back with fresh ideas. Your work gets sharper. And surprisingly, you end up getting more done, not less.

It’s simple really – when you’re operating at your best, everything gets better. Your creative juices flow more freely. You show up fully for the people you care about. And instead of just getting by, you start seeing bigger possibilities for your life.

Finding Your Flow vs. Forced Hustle

How do you know if you’re in flow or just forcing it? When you’re in flow, you’ll notice your energy lasting all day. Ideas come naturally, and while you feel challenged, you’re not stressed. Time flies by, and results seem to come easier.

Forced hustle feels completely different. You’re pushing through exhaustion, facing creative blocks, and feeling anxious about everything. Time drags, and you find yourself working harder but achieving less.

The key is learning to recognize these states in yourself. Start paying attention to when you feel energized versus drained. Notice which activities light you up and which ones leave you depleted. This awareness is your first step toward finding your own balance.

Making Balance Actually Work

So how do we actually do this? Let’s talk real-life strategies that work.

First, let’s rethink how we manage our energy. Instead of cramming more into each day, try planning your important tasks when your energy is at its highest. For some people, that’s first thing in the morning. For others, it might be late afternoon. The key is working with your own natural rhythms, not against them.

Take breaks that actually refresh you. A real lunch break away from your desk. A walk outside between big tasks. Moments to just breathe and reset. These breaks are vital for keeping your productivity and creativity at their peak.

One focused hour will accomplish far more than three distracted ones. Opt for tasks that have a genuine impact, and don’t hesitate to say no to activities that drain your energy.

Creating Space for Magic

Here’s something to keep in mind – when you stop forcing everything, you create space for unexpected opportunities. That project you’ve been pushing so hard on? Sometimes the solution appears when you step away. Arianna Huffington’s biggest business idea came after she stopped trying to do it all. She needed that step back to see the bigger picture.

Think about it – how many of your best ideas have come while you were in the shower, on a walk, or just letting your mind wander? That’s not coincidence. That’s what happens when you give your brain space to process and create.

When you release the need to control everything, you open yourself up to possibilities you couldn’t have planned for. It might feel scary at first, but this is where the magic happens.

Your Balance in Action

Want to try this out? Start with one week. Set clear boundaries around your work hours.

Take real breaks throughout the day. Listen to your energy levels and adjust your schedu l e accordingly. Make time for the things that fill you up, and don’t forget to celebrate your small wins along the way.

Your goals matter – but so does the person you’re becoming while chasing them. Crushing it at work doesn’t mean much if you’re too burnt out to enjoy the win. Find that balance where you can chase big dreams AND actually enjoy the journey.

Making the Shift

Ready to make balance your new power move? Start with one area where you’re over-hustling and try a different approach. Pay attention to how it affects your results, and adjust as needed.

The truth is, you don’t have to choose between your dreams and your well-being. Balance isn’t the opposite of ambition – it’s what makes sustainable success possible.

What’s one way you could bring more balance to your day? Start there and see what happens.

Want more support in creating a balanced, extraordinary life? Join the Seasonal Glow-Up Journey, where we turn nature’s cycles into your blueprint for success, transformation, and lasting change…

Creating Perfect Daily Routines

Hey there! Let’s talk about creating the perfect morning and evening routines. Not the Instagram-perfect kind where someone’s meditating at sunrise on a mountaintop. Let’s talk about real routines that actually work in real life.

Here’s the thing – you probably already have routines, even if you don’t call them that. Maybe it’s hitting snooze three times and rushing out the door. Maybe it’s scrolling through social media until way too late. The question is: are these routines making your life better?

A solid morning routine doesn’t need to start at 5am, and your evening routine doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding little moments that make your days flow better and help you feel more put together. When you start taking control of these small moments, you’ll be amazed at how they ripple through your whole life.

The Power of Small Changes

Have you ever noticed how some days just feel… different? Maybe you woke up before your alarm, had time for a proper breakfast, or actually enjoyed your morning coffee instead of gulping it down. Those good days often start with tiny decisions we made the night before.

That’s where routines come in. They’re not about restricting yourself or following someone else’s rules. They’re about creating space in your life for more of those good moments. More clarity. More peace. More time for what actually matters to you.

Setting Up Your Evening for Success

Want the secret to a good morning? It actually starts the night before. The best part about an evening routine is how simple it can be. Here’s what works for a lot of people:

A quick tidy of your main space (just 5 minutes makes such a difference)
Lay out tomorrow’s clothes (future you will be so grateful)
Do a brain dump – get those swirling thoughts onto paper
Simple self-care – maybe a face mask while you read or some gentle stretches
Keep your phone a few feet from your bed (game changer!)

Creating Your Sleep Sanctuary

Your bedroom vibe makes a huge difference in how well you sleep and how you feel when you wake up. Try:

Dimming the lights an hour before bed
Using essential oils or a nice room spray
Playing soft music or peaceful affirmations as you drift off
Keeping your space clutter-free (it helps your mind relax too)

The Brain Dump Magic

Let’s talk about that brain dump for a minute. There’s something powerful about getting all those thoughts out of your head and onto paper. Write down:

Things you need to do tomorrow
Ideas that keep popping up
What went well today
What you’re looking forward to
Any worries or concerns (getting them out often helps them feel smaller)
Random observations or things you don’t want to forget

Making Mornings Better

Now for mornings. No pressure to become a morning person overnight. Start with what feels doable:

If You Have 10 Minutes:

A collage of morning and evening routines.

Make your bed (seriously, this one habit can shift your whole mood)
Open those curtains and let in some light
Drink water (your body will thank you)
Three deep breaths while you think about something good coming up today

If You Have 30 Minutes:

Add in a quick stretch
Actually sit down for breakfast
Glance at your calendar while you eat
Write down three intentions for the day

If You Have an Hour:

Light exercise if that’s your thing
Read something inspiring
Plan out your day
Take time to visualize your goals
Morning Mindset Minutes

Those first few minutes after you wake up? They’re gold. Instead of reaching for your phone, try:

Taking a few deep breaths
Stretching your body
Thinking of one thing you’re excited about
Setting an intention for the day
Visualizing yourself handling the day’s challenges with grace
Think of a few things you’re grateful for

Self-Care Isn’t Selfish

Let’s talk about building in little moments of self-care. Routines aren’t just about getting things done – they’re about taking care of yourself too. Maybe it’s:

A woman relaxing with tea, reading a book.

Using your favourite scented lotion before bed
Taking five minutes to just sit with your coffee in peace
Doing a quick face massage while you do your skincare
Writing down three things you’re proud of from your day
Taking a moment to check in with how you’re feeling
Spending a few minutes journalling

Creating Space for Dreams

When you create these pockets of peace in your day, something amazing happens. You start having more energy for the things that light you up. More clarity about what you want. More confidence to go after it.

These routines become your foundation for creating an extraordinary life. They’re the quiet moments where you can:

Check in with your goals and dreams
Celebrate your progress
Plan your next steps
Reflect on what’s working
Adjust what isn’t

Small Acts, Big Impact

That might look like a lot, but remember – we’re talking about 5-minute chunks here. Tidying might be just loading the dishwasher. Stretching could be three simple moves. Your brain dump might take 2 minutes. It’s not about doing everything perfectly – it’s about small acts that add up to make your life flow better.

When you take care of these basic routines, you create space for bigger things. You have more energy to chase your dreams. More clarity about what you want. More confidence to go after it.

Making Routines Work When Life Gets Real

Let’s be honest – some days won’t go as planned. That’s okay. The beauty of having simple routines is that you can always come back to them. They’re like a friendly reset button for your day.

Maybe you only manage one or two things from your routine. That’s perfect! It’s not about doing everything every day. It’s about having helpful habits you can rely on when you need them.

Start Small, Keep It Real

Pick one or two small changes to start with. Try them for a week. Keep what works, ditch what doesn’t. Don’t stress if you can’t do everything – these routines are supposed to make life easier, not give you another list to worry about.

Remember, this isn’t about creating picture-perfect moments for social media. It’s about making your everyday life feel a little more intentional, a little more peaceful, and a lot more extraordinary. Because when you take care of these small moments, you create space for amazing things to happen.

Ready to Create Your Own Routines?

I’ve put together some simple templates to help you create routines that actually work for your life:

Brain Dump Template (get those thoughts out of your head)

Morning Routine Planner (customizable to your schedule)

Evening Routine Planner (make tomorrow easier)

Daily Habit Tracker (small steps, big results)

These aren’t for rigid schedules – they’re meant to be flexible frameworks to help you create days that feel good. What’s one small change you might try in your morning or evening routine? Start there and see what happens! Click here and subscribe for your free PDFs.

30 Summer Activities to Make Your Soul Sing with Joy!

Here’s a soul summer bucket list filled with 30 summer activities that’ll make your soul sing with joy! Here we go:

Sunrise Yoga Sessions: Start your day with gentle stretches and sun salutations outdoors. Let the morning breeze and warm rays energize your body and soul.

Picnic in the Park: Pack a delicious spread of your favorite foods, a comfy blanket, and a gathering of friends or family, for a leisurely afternoon under the shade of a tree.

Stargazing Nights: Stay up late to admire the night sky. Find a cozy spot away from city lights, lay back, and marvel at the constellations and shooting stars.

Beach Bonfire: Gather driftwood, build a bonfire on the beach, and enjoy the crackling flames, as you roast marshmallows and share stories with loved ones.

Outdoor Movie Marathon: Set up a projector in your backyard or find a local outdoor cinema. Snuggle up with blankets and popcorn for a movie night under the stars.

DIY Spa Day: Create your own spa experience at home with facemasks, aromatic candles, and soothing music. Pamper yourself and indulge in some summer self-care.

Farmers’ Market Adventure: Explore a farmers’ market bursting with seasonal fruits, veggies, and local treats. Support small vendors and savor the flavors of summer with my favorite activity.

Hike to a Waterfall: Discover a hidden gem by hiking to a breathtaking waterfall. Feel the mist on your face and listen to the soothing sound of cascading water.

Visit a honey farm: Plan a delightful day trip to a local honey farm and immerse yourself in the world of bees and golden honey. Make sure you take a jar or five home so you can enjoy its incredible health benefits all year long.

Volunteer Outdoors: Dedicate a day to volunteering in a community garden, cleaning up a local park, or participating in a beach cleanup. Give back to nature and your community.

Try a New Water Sport: Whether it’s paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing, challenge yourself with a new water adventure. Feel the thrill of gliding across the waves.

Visit a Botanical Garden: Wander through lush gardens bursting with colorful blooms and fragrant flowers. Take in the beauty and find peace in nature’s tranquility.

Create a Summer Playlist: Download a soundtrack filled with upbeat tunes and relaxing melodies. Let your favorite music uplift your spirits and set the mood for sunny days.

Host a BBQ Bash: Fire up the grill and host a summer BBQ with friends and family. Enjoy delicious food, laughter, and good times in your backyard. Plan to have summer activities like lawn darts, badminton, washer toss, etc.

Read Books in a Hammock: Hang a hammock between two trees, grab a stack of books you’ve been meaning to read, and lose yourself in some captivating stories, or inspirational self-improvement reads.

Outdoor Painting Session: Discover your creativity with an outdoor painting session. Capture the beauty of nature or create abstract art inspired by summer vibes.

Sunset Sailing Cruise: Enjoy a sunset sailing cruise on a serene lake or the open sea. Witness the sky ablaze with colors and feel the gentle breeze on your face.

Learn Constellation Names: Study the night sky and learn to identify constellations. Connect with the cosmos and deepen your appreciation for the universe.

Host a Garden Party: Invite friends over for a garden party surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery. Serve refreshing drinks and summer-themed snacks.

Make Fresh Lemonade: Squeeze lemons, mix with cold water and sweetener of choice, and enjoy a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade on a hot day.

Take a Road Trip: Plan a spontaneous road trip to explore nearby towns, scenic routes, or national parks. Enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Attend an Outdoor Concert: Dance under the stars at an outdoor concert or music festival. Let the live music lift your spirits, while you create unforgettable memories.

Go Barefoot Walking: Feel the earth beneath your feet by walking barefoot on grass, sand, or soil. Connect with nature’s energy and ground yourself.

Start a Nature Journal: Record your observations of plants, animals, and landscapes in a nature journal. Sketch, write poetry, or jot down thoughts inspired by your surroundings.

Journal with nature elements for summer bucket list

Visit a Sunflower Field: Wander through fields of golden sunflowers in full bloom. Be amazed by the sea of vibrant colors and the buzzing of the bees.

Host a Starlit Dinner: Set up a table outdoors illuminated by string lights or candles. Enjoy a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends under the twinkling stars.

Make Homemade Ice Cream: Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own delicious ice cream or sorbet. Cool off with a sweet treat. Recipes here.

A bowl of homemade ice cream summer soul bucket list

Go Fruit Picking: Visit a fruit orchard or berry farm to pick your own ripe, juicy fruits. Taste the freshness and savor the flavors of summer.

Preserve your bounty: Gather up some friends and host a canning party. Jams, jellies, pickles, salsa, you name it. Enjoy a productive day with your favorite friends, filling jars with homemade goodness.

Reflect and Set Intentions: Find a quiet spot outdoors, meditate, or simply sit in contemplation. Reflect on the past season and set intentions for the coming months. Revel in the possibilities summer brings.

There you have it—30 soul-serving activities to make your summer unforgettable! Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or creative inspiration, these ideas will nourish your soul and fill your days with joy. So, what’s first on your summer soul bucket list?

Little Luxuries Anyone Can Enjoy

These little luxuries anyone can enjoy will have you feeling like you have it all, even if you don’t.

It’s important to take inventory of what personally makes you feel luxurious. (Sounds like a journal prompt challenge to me.) Maybe climbing into a bed at night that’s fitted with luxury bedding makes you feel luxe. It could be that sporting a high-end handbag has you feeling like a diva. We all have our ideas when it comes to what makes us feel luxurious, so make it your mission to implement some of those ideas into your days.

Splurge on your most used items.

What is the one item you use daily, more than any other item? For me, it’s my coffee mug. Whether it’s my travel or my at-home mug, I’ve made sure it feels luxurious to me. I recommend that your most used items should be splurged on. If you want to feel luxurious as often as possible, then make yourself a list of the top five items you utilize every single day and make it a priority to save up for the best of the best. Instead of splurging on something you use occasionally, you should make your top five items your priority.

Here are my top five:

Skincare/body-care

Coffee mug/tumbler

Handbag

Bed Linens

Specialty coffee//drink machine

I’ve made these items a priority and didn’t mind spending a bit extra for them.

In case you are still not sure what feels luxurious to you, here are some ideas:

Enjoy a luxury drink at home.

Luxury drinks — Image via A Couple Cooks

You don’t have to go out and spend a fortune on a fancy cappuccino, latte, or whatever your favorite luxe drink is. You can easily make them at home yourself. And to be honest, making mine at home just makes it feel that much more luxurious. Not only do I not have to overpay for a drink, but I know how to make it on my own and that is kind of liberating.

You can get creative with flavors and garnishes, putting your own special twist into your concoctions.

Here are some exceptional recipes for hot or cold luxurious drinks:

19 Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Please Any Crowd (eatingwell.com)

15 Hot Drinks to Take the Chill Off! – A Couple Cooks

Climb into luxury bed linens.

Climbing into a bed adorned with luxurious linens is a beautiful thing! Not only does it feel amazing on the skin, but it makes you feel like a million dollars. There is just nothing better than pulling soft, quality sheets and a light and fluffy duvet over you to snuggle in for slumber.

This luxury is my number 1 because every time I get into my bed, I have that ahhhh moment of just pure comfort and bliss.

Luxury linens will hold up well, looking and feeling amazing launder after launder. The extra money that you’ll spend on luxury is worth it in every sense. I suggest splurging on a quality duvet that you can easily update with a new cover whenever you feel an urge to update your decor. Choose a high thread count sheet set for both the best feel and best durability.

Slather on some luxurious skincare.

Let me start with an admission, I am a high-end skincare junkie. However, there are certain things that I prefer to make on my own. Luxury skincare can come straight from your kitchen! You can make your own skin treats that are free of harmful chemicals and tailored to your specific needs. You can craft your own sugar scrubs, nourishing face masks, lip balms, and ever so much more. One of the wonderful things about DIY beauty is that you can scent them to your preference.

Find loads of great recipes here: DIY Skincare – A Life Adjacent

Some products are just better homemade but if luxe skincare is your thing, then whatever you can’t make for yourself should be one of your top 5 splurges. If it makes you feel amazing, then it’s worth it, right?

Love yourself.

Taking time for yourself is super important and you deserve it. I know that when times are busy, we seem to put ourselves last, but that is just so backward. You are better for everyone when you’re showing up at your best.

No matter how small, doing something nice for yourself is loving yourself enough to do it. Anyone living a luxury lifestyle is most certainly being good to themselves, so follow suit. Just because you don’t have a luxury bank account doesn’t mean you can’t pamper yourself. Get yourself into that luxury mindset and watch how things around you start to change. It’s all about how you feel so make sure you are feeling good. 🖤

Even if you can only muster up 10 minutes then take that 10 minutes and do something nice for yourself. Here are some ideas:

Treat your face to a mask.
Soak your feet.
Use a hand or foot mask.
Achieve your water intake.
Read something inspiring.
Meditate.
Write something inspiring in your journal.
Have a luxe bubble bath.
Use a hair mask.

Whatever you do if it feels good to you then that is all that matters. And if you’re thinking you don’t deserve it – sheesh, look how far you’ve come in life. You deserve it.

Find a posh cafe or bakery to frequent.

Be on the lookout for cafes or bakeries which have both visually appealing food, and atmosphere. Find a place that offers things like gourmet pastries or desserts and treat yourself once and a while. You won’t have to put out for a whole expensive meal and it’s a fantastic way to add some luxury into your life.

Incorporate little luxuries into your living space.

A luxury home radiates elegance and comfort, and you don’t have to break the bank to achieve this ambiance. Try some of these ideas:

Feature textiles with different textures. You can do this with throws and pillows for an air of sophisticated comfort. Get this look with faux furs, corduroys, knits, cotton, or whatever you like, but mix it up with an array of textures.

Mirrors can make small rooms appear larger and if mounted strategically, they reflect light to make your rooms brighter, more inviting, and romantic.

Bringing earthly elements indoors like fresh flowers, greenery, stone, and wood can add warmth and elegance to your space. Take a walk on a beach and collect beach glass to display in a vase or find driftwood to frame a mirror. Go for a walk in the forest to find twigs that can be painted and placed in urns.

Find your perfect signature scent and use that scent throughout your whole home. That’s right a signature scent for your home, it’s a thing now, and I think it’s a good thing. The intent, besides your home smelling amazing, is that by having a signature scent, people will always think of you when they smell it. To put this in perspective, imagine the signature scent of someone you love dearly, when you catch a whiff of that scent somewhere, it brings on thoughts and memories of them. Scent is a major contributor to memories and can contribute to setting your mood, so when you come home after a long day and catch that first waft of scent, you will immediately have a feeling of familiarity and comfort.

Take a virtual tour through some luxury homes and see what their decor is like. Take note and make it a mission to find less expensive replicas at your thrift, discount, and dollar stores.

The only thing that matters is how you feel.

It does not matter what’s in your bank account. Get yourself in a luxury mindset and enjoy any little luxury you can. You will soon find yourself becoming motivated to take actions that will lead to more luxuries in your life. Be positive and love yourself because your feelings of self-worth are going to feed your mindset, and that mindset will fuel your motivation. Grab hold of that motivation, and it will lead you to amazing places.🖤

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Comfy Cozy – Beat The Winter Blues.

No winter blues this year my loves. Get comfy cozy with these 12 joyful ways to enjoy the frosty season.

❄️ Cozy up and be grateful that we get to experience all of Mother Earth’s beautiful elements! This is the season where we can create warmth and comfort no matter what is happening outside. Doesn’t that sound kind of synonymous with life in general? Read on to stay comfy cozy and beat the winter blues!

#1. Sip on a gourmet hot drink.

Whatever your favorite hot drink is, you don’t have to go out in the cold to get one. You can find recipes online and make them yourself at home. Try these: Best Hot Drink Recipes for Fall and Winter (marthastewart.com). Jot down a few of your favorites, and next time you’re at the shops grab the ingredients so you can enjoy them all winter long.

Homemade hot cocoa is a breeze and you can jazz it up with a simple latte syrup, that you can also make at home. Add some whipped cream or marshmallows, shaved chocolate, and a sprinkle of cocoa. Beautiful!

Warm your hands and your heart with a hot mug of homemade deliciousness, and be sure to add garnishes to kick it up a notch.

#2 – Relax in comfy cozy loungewear.

Having a couple of cute, cozy outfits to lounge in over the winter is a must! Comfy enough, but also presentable in case someone happened to stop by. Throw on your favorite tights paired with an oversized knit sweater, and don’t forget some slouchy socks. Whatever your comfy cozy is, wear it and feel good in it.

#3 – Take a winter walk.

Getting outdoors doesn’t have to be cold and awful! Dress for the weather making sure you put on a hat, scarf, mitts, warm jacket, and boots. Pull that scarf up to keep your face warm. As long as you dress appropriately, you can really enjoy the frosty outdoors. Don’t forget to use extra moisturizer so that chilly air doesn’t dry out your skin.

Breathe in that fresh crisp air and take in the scenery.

#4 – Beat the winter blues with a feel-good book.

The universe has given us a beautiful season for rest and restoration. There’s so little to do now that we don’t gather outdoors every weekend, and it’s the perfect opportunity to get to work on yourself.

This is your time to learn some new things, such as more about yourself, and the things you love. Pick up a self-improvement book, or maybe a romance novel, whatever it is, make sure it’s positive and can bring you some joy.

#5 – Start a creative journal.

Keeping a journal can help you learn a lot about yourself, and writing things out will allow you to organize your thoughts and put a lot of them in perspective.

Your journal can be used as a tool to help create the life you desire since it can help you discover what emotional blocks you may have that are holding you back from receiving those desires.

Adding some creativity like art, stickers, colors, and such, can really bring your attention to what you love. This helps you to focus on what you want more of in your life. Focus on gratitude, and watch as more things to be grateful for fall into your reality.

#6 – Create comfy cozy DIY decor.

This is the perfect season to create some handmade decor for the holidays. There are a zillion DIY ideas all over the internet. How about some unique ornaments for your tree, a gingerbread house, or a beautiful wreath for your door?

I’ve found you 75 cute DIY projects from the Pioneer Woman: 75 Easy Christmas Crafts to DIY This Holiday Season (thepioneerwoman.com)

#7 – Scented candles to light your night.

It may be dark earlier now, making this the perfect time to light up those scented candles. Be sure to pick some festive scents that take you back to when you were a child. Scents like mom’s baking, fresh crisp air, and hot chocolate are winter scents I love. There’s just such a romantic and cozy feel in the dancing light of a flame.

#8 – Pamper yourself with a comfy cozy hot bath.

There is nothing more amazing than a luxurious hot bath in the winter, so lay back, relax, and unwind. Use lots of scented bubbles and a candle or two, to light the room.

Maybe go even further and create a little spa evening for yourself. Face masks and body scrubs are delectable treats for the skin. Afterwards, slather yourself in your favorite body cream before climbing into those warm PJs. So comfy cozy!

#9 – Knit, crochet, or sew.

Don’t know how? No problem. I didn’t know a thing about it, but I watched as many tutorials as I could find and worked my way up to a good intermediate at crochet, in no time at all. I love to see my family wearing hats or mitts I’ve made them with love.

Cozy homemade throws and blankets strewn about, are a surefire way to add a feeling of comfort and warmth to your home. Some super easy sewing patterns are perfect to warm you up – find some flax seed heating pad patterns.

I must warn you though, you are about to become addicted! Creating useful things gives you a certain satisfaction that will have you wanting to create more, and more, and more.

#10 – Holiday baking.

I love to get together with a friend and do an all-day bake-fest sharing a cocktail or 2 and a lot of laughs. We make double batches of everything and split it up. It’s a wonderful tradition.

Do you know you can bake ahead and put all the goodies in the freezer to enjoy right up to the holidays? Just cut them up and place them into plastic storage containers. Whenever you want some you can make up a plate. Just thaw for 15 or so minutes on the counter first. I do this every year.

#11 – Take a Christmas light drive.

What’s more beautiful than colored lights over a glistening snowy backdrop?

Fill up a tumbler with your favorite hot drink and go on a holiday light-up adventure. Your town may even have a list of locations for Christmas show homes, and many parks have Christmas lighting events as well.

#12 – Meditate.

Tis the season for finding yourself. This quiet season is our time for restoration and reflection. This is the perfect time to look back on our year and discover what lessons we learned, how we have grown, and what we want to accomplish in the new year.

Mastering meditation can can have a profound affect on you. You can experience some serious spiritual growth when you can train your mind to be silent Take a look at The Official Website of Dr Joe Dispenza. FYI – I have no affiliation with Joe, but in my opinion he is the leading expert in meditation and breathwork. His techniques are excellent and they work.

Enjoy a comfy cozy winter my loves. Take this time to rest, reflect, renew and grow 🖤

Ready to really embrace the winter season?

Check out our Seasonal Glow-Up Journey at the FP Extraordinary Living Academy!