7 Steps to Changing Your Career Path

Thinking about changing your career path? You’re not alone.

 

This article will guide you through seven practical steps to ensure your transition is smooth and effective. Whether you’re aiming for a complete industry switch or just a different role in your current field, these steps will help you move confidently toward your new professional goals. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Why

Before you dive into a new career, it’s essential to understand why you want to make the change.

 

● Start by assessing your current job situation. Are you looking for more fulfillment, greater challenges, or perhaps a better work-life balance?

 

● Write down your reasons and what you hope to achieve in your new career. This self-reflection will not only clarify your goals but also fuel your motivation throughout the transition process.

 

● It’s important to ensure that your desire for change is driven by positive aspirations rather than temporary dissatisfaction.

 

Knowing your “why” will guide your decisions and keep you focused as you step into the unknown of a new professional landscape.

Step 2: Research Your Dream Job

Once you’ve nailed down your reasons for switching, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of what your dream job entails.

 

For instance, if you’re drawn to roles that require excellent interpersonal skills and a knack for problem-solving, consider exploring job opportunities in the consumer services sector.

 

Research is your best friend here.

 

● Start by identifying roles or industries that spark your interest.

 

● Look up job descriptions, required skills, and potential employers.

 

● Don’t forget to explore the market demand and future growth prospects of these fields. Tools like LinkedInGlassdoor, and industry-specific forums can provide invaluable insights.

 

● Also, consider reaching out to people currently working in those roles – most are happy to share their experiences.

 

This step is about gathering all the information you need to understand if this new path aligns well with your skills, interests, and long-term career objectives.

Step 3: Skill Up Strategically

Shifting to a new career often means you’ll need some new skills.

 

● Identify what skills are essential for your target job and which ones you currently lack.

 

● Whether it’s technical knowledge, soft skills, or industry-specific certifications, make a plan to acquire these skillsefficiently.

 

● Look into online courses, night classes, or weekend workshops that fit your schedule and budget. Many platforms offer free trials or low-cost options for professional development.

 

● Also, consider joining relevant groups or forums where you can learn from industry insiders and possibly gain mentors.

 

Remember, the goal isn’t just to gather certifications but to truly understand and apply your new skills. This strategic approach to learning will make you a more competitive candidate in your new field.

Step 4: Network Effectively

Networking is key to making a successful career change.

 

● Start building connections within your new industry as early as possible.

 

● Attend industry meetups, seminars, and conferences to meet professionals and learn more about current trends and opportunities.

 

● Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry leaders and participate in relevant discussions.

 

● Don’t hesitate to reach out to contacts for informational interviews where you can ask questions about their career paths and advice for newcomers.

 

Remember, effective networking is all about building genuine relationships and learning from others. These connections can offer valuable insights, recommend you for positions, and even provide support as you navigate your new career landscape.

Step 5: Gain Relevant Experience

While you’re skilling up and networking, start looking for ways to gain hands-on experience in your new field.

 

Real-world experience is invaluable. It not only enhances your resume but also gives you a clearer sense of the day-to-day responsibilities of your desired role.

 

● This could be through volunteering, part-time work, internships, or even freelance projects.

 

● Consider taking on small projects that can showcase your new skills and commitment to transitioning careers.

 

● If possible, shadow a professional in the field to see what their daily work entails.

 

This direct exposure will confirm your interest but also demonstrate to potential employers that you’re serious about this change. Each piece of experience is a stepping stone towards becoming more integrated and competent in your new career.

Step 6: Update Your Resume

After you’ve gained new skills and experiences, it’s necessary to update your resume to reflect your career transition.

 

● Start by highlighting transferable skills that are relevant to your new field.

 

● Tailor your resume to each job you apply for, emphasizing how your previous experiences align with the new role.

 

● Use a functional or combination resume format if you need to focus more on skills than chronological work history.

 

● Don’t forget to craft a compelling cover letter that tells the story of your career change, explaining why you’re passionate about this new path and how your background makes you a unique candidate.

 

This personalized approach shows potential employers your commitment and readiness for the role. A well-prepared resume and cover letter can make a significant difference in getting noticed in a competitive job market.

Step 7: Ace the Interview

When you land an interview in your new field, it’s your chance to shine.

 

Preparation is how you ace it.

 

● Research the company thoroughly and understand its culture, values, and recent developments.

 

● Be ready to discuss industry trends and how your background can bring a fresh perspective to the team.

 

● Practice answering common interview questions, but also prepare to explain your career change confidently and positively, focusing on how your past experiences will benefit your new role.

 

● Consider conducting mock interviews with a mentor or friend in the industry.

 

● Your non-verbal communication matters, too. Ensure your body language conveys enthusiasm and confidence.

 

● Finally, always send a thank-you email after the interview, reiterating your interest and summarizing how you can add value to the company.

 

This proactive approach will help you make a memorable impression.

Your Turn

You’ve now walked through the seven essential steps to successfully change your career path.

 

So, don’t wait for the perfect moment – start your transition today. Reflect on your motivations, equip yourself with new skills, connect with industry leaders, and step confidently into your next job interview.

 

Your new career awaits. Embrace it with enthusiasm and courage.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

How Your Workout Should Change When You Hit 30

An active lifestyle is crucial for maintaining your physical and emotional health But while you may not have had to be picky with your workouts in your early to mid-twenties, things will usually change by the time you hit thirty. Especially if you’ve experienced any changes to your metabolic rate from pregnancy, injury, or the increasing demands of a busy office job.

Now, as you enter your 30s, your intuition may tell you that you need to work out harder and eat less to keep in prime condition. However, research shows that this may not be the case. In fact, the key to maintaining your physical fitness throughout your life requires fine-tuning your approach to fitness. After all, that’s the only way to get the biggest bang for your buck. And that means your workouts need to change once you hit 30. Fortunately, this change is for the better.

So, if you’re trying to perfect your workout routine, here are a few ways to make bigger gains once you’ve hit the big three-oh.

Add More Movement to Your Day

The easiest — yet most commonly overlooked — way to keep your body in prime shape is moving. No, we don’t mean booking additional workouts at the gym or training until failure. Instead, to maintain physical fitness in your thirties and beyond, you must create the habit of spending more time on your feet.

For example, hitting the daily goal of 10,000 steps is an excellent way to improve your life expectancy and cardiovascular health. However, research is starting to show that how many steps you take doesn’t matter nearly as much as how much energy you burn.

So, as you explore ways to invest in your fitness beyond thirty, consider ways to make your daily movements more meaningful. Experiment with a walking pad to counteract the consequences of having a desk job. Consider changing your commute to spend less time in your car and more on your feet. Or try to get lunch at a spot slightly further away from the office so you’ll be forced to walk more (an excellent way to regulate your blood sugar).

Furthermore, try to weave additional movement opportunities into your day. For instance, a 10-minute yoga session after you wake up may not sound appealing right now. But it’s a great way to start your day by moving your body, setting you up for success.

Replace HIIT Sessions with Zone 2 Training

One of the most significant discoveries of the past decade — at least in terms of physical fitness and longevity — is the tremendous benefit of doing zone 2 cardio training.

Popularized by Dr. Peter Attia, zone 2 training represents an easy workout — like a slow jog or relaxed bicycle ride — where your heart works at approximately 65% to 75% of its maximum capacity.

Now, the biggest reason to replace your high-intensity interval training sessions with this type of exercise is that it’s easier yet equally good for you. Zone 2 training also comes with little risk — the exact opposite of HIIT, which has been proven to increase people’s chances of sustaining an injury.

In general, you should aim for at least two hours of zone 2 cardio per week if you’re a beginner. If you’re in prime shape, you can incorporate more of this training into your routine, aiming for up to five hours per week. Does that sound like too much? Don’t worry about it. Start small and remember that even a little bit of cardio is better for you than none (or too much, for that matter).

Don’t Skip the Weights

Another important thing to change about your workouts once you’ve hit thirty is that you will need to incorporate more strength training in your regime the older you get.

Essentially, research shows that people start losing muscle mass between the ages of 30 and 40 (with the process escalating after the age of 60). So, if you want to protect your body, vital organs, and bones, you must work harder to keep yourself strong.

The good news, again, is that you don’t have to turn into a powerlifter to reap the benefits of strength training (though you can do that if that’s how you like to work out). Instead, even regular bodyweight exercises like yoga or pilates can be enough to keep you in the best shape of your life, prevent injuries, and give you the stamina you need to take on any of life’s challenges.

Fuel Your Body for Success, and Don’t Forget to Recover

Lastly, as you explore ways to change your workouts when you hit 30, remember that your body isn’t up to as many challenges as it was in your youth. No, this does not mean you have to back off and give up on your dreams of climbing Mount Everest or running your first marathon. It simply means you must be smarter about going after your fitness goals.

The most essential prerequisite for making your workouts effective in your thirties is fueling your body for success. In addition to getting your caloric intake right (as too much will make you gain weight while too little will prevent you from reaping the benefits of your workouts), you also need to start paying attention to the nutritional quality of your meals.

Do your best to adopt a healthier diet, focusing on eating whole foods and getting enough protein to maintain muscle mass. Also consider investing in high-quality supplements to make your workouts more effective. For example, a burner that includes L-Carnitine and green tea can be an easy way to support your workouts naturally.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of recovery in making your workouts effective in your thirties.

In addition to getting plenty of high-quality sleep, do your best to incorporate a bit of stretching and self-care in your daily routine. And, if you want to make your thirties the decade when you reach your physical peak, it’s not a bad idea to consider expanding your fitness regime with some advanced recovery strategies, whether that’s going to the sauna, getting infrared light exposure, or doing the occasional cold plunge.

Wrapping Up

Being (or becoming) fit in your thirties shouldn’t be difficult. However, as your body starts to slow down, going after your fitness goals at this stage will necessitate a higher level of self-care.

Consequently, your workouts will have to change once you hit thirty. Still, knowing what to do, what to skip, and what aspects of your recovery to pay attention to, you’ll be more than prepared to make serious gains and maybe even attain the best shape of your life.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

New Year, New Ways to Save Up Some Money

Was one of your New Year’s resolutions to save some money this year? Are you trying to curtail your spending or just become better at managing your finances?

If this is you, take a look at some of our clever suggestions to save up some money in the new year.

Write Down a Clear Budget

The best and most commonly suggested first step to take when looking to save money is to create a budget for yourself.

This is not likely to be a fun activity. You will need to do a lot of math and figure out exactly what you are earning and how much you are spending. However, it can give you a very clear overview of your expenses and help you set some budgeting goals.

Create Lists of Things (Not) To Buy

Once you have a budget in mind, you can decide what you want to spend money on and what you want to stop buying.

A great way to both track your spending and ensure you stick to your budgets is to create lists. Write down everything that you need or want to purchase. This will include groceries, medicine, and any other item you definitely need. Write down the things you would like to buy this year or this month, too.

Also create a list of things you are prone to overbuying or things that you buy on impulse often. You can also include things like excessive Ubers, too many DoorDash orders, etc.

Having a list to look at will help you allocate your money better and make sure you only spend within your budget.

Have a No-Buy or a Low-Buy Month

If you want to take things a step further, you can also do a no-buy or a low-buy month. In fact, you can do it for an entire year!

No-buy means that you will only buy necessities. Low-buy means that you can buy other things as well but curtail excessive spending by focusing on decluttering and owning only items you really want to have.

Wait 28 Days Before Making a Purchase

Before you make a purchase, give yourself 28 days to think it through. This rule can be applied to larger, more expensive purposes.

For example, you want to buy a new sweater. You’ve seen it on Instagram, and you love it. Before you buy it, give yourself a 28-day window.

If you’re still thinking about the sweater and really love it, buy it. If you’ve forgotten all about it, don’t.

You can apply this rule to smaller purchases, too. For example, if you really want to order a specific takeout or buy something sweet, give it a couple of days. If you are still craving it, do it.

Save Money When Shopping Online

For a lot of people, online shopping is where they spend the most money and make the most impulse purchases. Since we are bombarded by ads every time we go online, this hardly comes as a surprise.

A great way to save money on your online spending habits is to find online shopping deals. That way, you can still buy the things you want, but often at a significantly discounted price.

Apply the rules from above as well. Wait a while before you commit to the purchase, and really think it through. Is this an item you really need and want, or are you just inspired by something you’ve seen online?

Check All of Your Subscriptions and Recurring Payments

Most of us spend money on services or subscriptions we never use or use very rarely. Take some time to go through all of yours and cancel anything you no longer need.

For example, if you are subscribed to Hulu, Max, and Netflix, consider whether you can cut one for a couple of months. Figure out which shows you are likely to watch in the next month or two, and then cancel the other subscriptions.

You can also go in with friends for group subscriptions and save money that way.

Spend Cash

If you tend to use your credit card a lot, consider switching to cash. Spending real money that you have to take out of a wallet and hand over often feels like real spending. Entering a card number or swiping a piece of plastic doesn’t impact us nearly as much.

When you’ve set your monthly budget for things like groceries, toiletries, transportation, and takeout, go to an ATM and withdraw these amounts. Put them in separate wallets or separate folders and use them as necessary.

Don’t take money from one folder to pay for something else. Anything that you have left over at the end of the month can go to your savings, or you can splurge on something as a treat.

Sell or Gift Things You No Longer Need or Use

Most of our homes are filled with items we don’t use, don’t like, or don’t need. Instead of letting them sit there, resell them or give them to someone.

You can do this with Christmas and birthday presents, as long as you remember who gave you the gift in the first place. You can pop your clothes on Depop or Vinted and earn a bit of extra cash.

Don’t necessarily think about earning a lot of money this way. If you sell a spatula for a dollar, you can help someone out and still get a bit back. You can, of course, simply donate items that you don’t want to or can’t sell and declutter your home that way.

Wrapping Up

Do any of these suggestions sound like something you might try? Don’t worry if you can’t get a handle on your savings in the first month of the year. Give yourself time to form some new, better habits. As long as you stick to your goals and keep working on them, even after a setback, you are sure to reach them!

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

5 Ways to Strengthen Your Immune System This Winter

The winter season is magical in so many ways. The holiday parties, the opportunity to spend time with friends and family, and the possibility of a white Christmas make many people feel like December is the most magical time of the year.

But the fact is, winter also comes with some downsides — most notably cold and flu season. And even though taking precautions may be enough to ward off a bug, the truth is that whether we get sick depends on our bodies’ natural ability to fight infections.

So, if you’re looking for tips for not coming down with a bug this holiday season, here are the five best ways to strengthen your immune system this winter.

Get More Sleep

Sleep is one of the most powerful immune boosters you can get. Yet, most people tend to completely disregard it — especially when they’re busy and stressed.

According to scientific research, sleep deprivation harms the body’s immune response. So, the result of losing sleep isn’t just daytime grogginess. More worryingly, lack of sleep can lead to chronic inflammation and an increased risk of infection. Moreover, according to Yale Medicine, those who get less than seven hours of sleep per night are three times more likely to get the common cold.

With this in mind, one of the best ways to strengthen your immune system this winter is to make sure you get plenty of time to rest each night. Practice proper sleep hygiene. And embrace rituals that will help you get a better quality of rest.

Practice Any Form of Stress Management

While winter may be a magical time of the year for some people, for others, it’s a source of stress. And the thing about experiencing challenges and difficulties (whether they’re emotional, financial, or physical) is that they can weaken our immune system.

The reason for this is that a state of being stressed triggers a boost of cortisol. And though a short-term increase in this hormone may be a good thing (in emergencies), long-term exposure causes inflammation and reduces white blood cell count.

So, if you’re trying to strengthen your immune system, play around with various forms of stress management. Research shows that yoga and meditation work marvelously for reducing cortisol levels. But, of course, if these are not your preferred modes of self-care, you can sit back with an immersive book or a good movie, take a relaxing bath, or enjoy any other hobby that helps you wind down.

Experiment with Cold Exposure

Are you willing to try out more advanced immune-boosting methods this winter? If that’s the case, you might want to give cold exposure a go.

Scientific research has studied the impact of temperature on the human body for a few decades. Results have consistently shown that cold exposure does have immunostimulating effects, mainly because it increases the production of white blood cells (which are important for fighting off infections).

Unlike what scientists thought up to a few years back, you don’t have to sit in a freezing room for two hours to get the benefits of cold exposure. In fact, something as simple as a regular doing a cold plunge can be more than enough to trigger positive physiological responses.

Are you not a fan of the cold? Well, that’s OK because you don’t necessarily have to fully submerge yourself in icy water to get the benefits of cold exposure. In most cases, finishing your shower by turning it to cold for 60-120 seconds is enough to reap the benefits of the lower temperature, so try doing that. And who knows, if it works for you, you might be ready to plunge into icier waters.

Get Toasty in a Sauna

Really hate the cold? Well, why not get toasty warm instead?

Research shows that even a single 15-minute Finnish sauna session (with a temperature of around 176 to 230 °F) can increase the number of white blood cells in the body. And this is especially true for people who are in good athletic form. So, if you’re looking for ways to strengthen your immune system this winter, it’s a good idea to make time for a couple of sauna sessions per week.

If you’re unsure where to locate a sauna, your local gym or swimming pool is a great place to start. However, if you want to enjoy the toasty warmth anytime you feel like it, you can look into getting one for your home.

Eat Your Veggies and Fruits

Finally, as you explore ways to strengthen your immune system this winter, remember to eat five portions of fruits and veggies per day.

Nutrition plays an immense part in keeping your strength up. And plant-based foods are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which can boost immune function. If you’re not too big on greenery, try incorporating a smoothie into your daily routine and pack it with leafy greens, citrus fruits, berries, and spices like ginger.

Additionally, ensure your diet contains plenty of protein, healthy fats, and probiotic microbiomes. These will all work to keep your body well-nourished during the cold season.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, the five best ways to strengthen your immune system this winter.

As you can see, none of these hacks require too much work. However, if you embrace them and keep up with them regularly, you’re guaranteed to see benefits.

Lastly, if you think you need additional help keeping yourself healthy during flu season, don’t hesitate to look into supplements. Moreover, ensure you’re up to date with all your shots. They can be super-helpful in preparing your body to ward off infections when you’re (inevitably) exposed.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

Golf Tourism: The New Way to See the World

If you’re a keen golfer, you might have already given golf tourism careful consideration. Since it pairs two of your interests – golf and travel – it can be your chance to see more of the world, recharge your batteries, and perfect your swing.

Here’s what you need to know about golf tourism and preparing for your next trip:

What Is Golf Tourism?

Golf tourism is, as the name suggests, a holiday centered around golf. There are over 25 million people playing the sport in the US alone, and around 56 million in the world. It comes as no surprise that tour operators have started offering packages centered around it.

People from Australia, Japan, and the UK are the most keen to find a desirable golfing destination for their holiday, but other countries are falling in love with the sport as well. Asian and Middle Eastern countries are taking advantage of this interest and have started to offer some incredible courses for tourists. Korea, for example, is investing a lot of resources into building hundreds of attractive golf courses.

Best Golfing Destinations to Visit

Here are some of the best golf courses you can visit around the world. Some of them will require you to play at a certain level, while others are open to rookie golfers, too, so make sure to check each course before you start planning your trip:

USA

The States are often considered the best golfing destination in the world. There are so many courses to choose from – we can’t possibly do them justice, so we’ll only mention some of the best ones.

You can check out the CordeValle Golf Club in San Martin or the Cypress Point Club in Pebble Beach if you’re going to California. If you prefer Florida, you can go to the Calusa Pines in Naples and the Streamsong’s Resort in Streamsong.

UK

The UK in general and Scotland in particular are home to some amazing golf courses. You shouldn’t miss out on the Royal Dornoch in the Highlands or the Gleneagles’ King’s Course in Perthshire.

In England, you can check out the Royal St. George in Kent. In Wales, check out the Celtic Manor. In Northern Ireland, there’s the Royal County Down.

Canada

Canada offers over 2500 courses to choose from, so you’ll certainly be able to find something for your taste and skill levels. Be mindful of the weather, though, as you can’t play golf in Canada all year round.

Some of the best courses to check out are the Cape Breton Golf Resort in Nova Scotia and the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Jasper.

Australia and New Zealand

If you want to travel down under, don’t miss out on some of the great golf courses in Melbourne and Sydney. The Royal Melbourne and the Victoria Golf Club are famous for a reason, as are The Australian and The Royal Sidney.

On the island of New Zealand, there are the Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, the Kinloch Club in Taupo, and the Kauri Cliffs Golf Course in Matauri Bay.

Italy

If you would like to see the Mediterranean on your golfing trip, head out to Italy. Italy is home to some of the best food in the world as well as some stunning golf courses.

Go to La Mandria’s Blue Cou in Turin and the Castelfalfi Mountain Course in Tuscany, which will truly take your breath away.

How to Plan a Golfing Vacation

If you want to take a golf-centered vacation, here are some tips for planning your trip:

● Consider whether you want to plan your own trip or if you want to work with a tour operator or a golf resort. The decision will depend on how many golf courses you want to visit and how much time you actually want to spend golfing and how much on sightseeing or relaxing.
● Make sure you check out the golf courses you want to play on. It’s important that they service their equipment like golf carts and other accessories throughout the year so that it is in top shape. You don’t want to arrive on an unkept green out of season.
● Think about the type of course you want to play on. Are you looking for something a bit more challenging, or will anything do? A lot of resorts will promise amazing accommodations and great views, but the courses themselves may end up quite mundane and not enough of a challenge for a good golfer.
● Find the time to get some practice in right before you leave for your golf vacation. You don’t want to arrive at your destination out of shape and have to spend several days getting a feel for the ball and your clubs. This is especially important if you are going to be playing at a high-class course.
● Think about the clubs and balls you want to take. Are you happy with your own, or are you comfortable renting at the location? If you are still learning how to play, you might be fine either way, but if you have lots of experience and really want to perfect your mastery of the sport, taking your own clubs can be the better choice.

Wrapping Up

Are you ready for your next golfing adventure? Pack your bags and choose a destination that will allow you to work on your handicap and enjoy a bit of a scenery change, too.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

5 Relaxing Self-Care Tips for When You Feel Tired

Most people deal with energy-draining moments in their day-to-day lives. A poor night’s sleep, a stressful day at work, an argument at home, or even coming down with a cold can make you feel drained. And when these days happen more often than not, burnout is almost inevitable.

But the thing is, even though feeling tired is not something we can avoid altogether — after all, life happens whether we want it to or not — there are actionable steps we can all take to relax, recharge, and recover when our day-to-day becomes too much.

Are you interested in adopting some relaxing self-care tips for when you feel tired? The following activities are sure to help you get through those impossible days.

Do a Session of Yoga Nidra (or NSDR)

Taking a nap is one of the best quick fixes for when you’re less energized than you’d like to be. But the fact is, napping can disrupt your sleep schedule. And, if you find it difficult to relax, it might not even be possible for you to fall asleep quickly.

For this reason, one of the best self-care tips you can implement is to do yoga Nidra or NSDR when you need an energizing pick-me-up.

If you’re not sure how the practice works, think of it as a meditation that you do lying down and aims to put you in a deep state of conscious awareness sleep. This practice has been shown to reduce anxiety more successfully than traditional medication. It can also be a great tool when you’ve had a poor night’s sleep or need to prepare for a challenge later in the day.

Take a Break and Do Something You Enjoy

Have you ever felt that some activities make you more energized? Even if they are not necessarily relaxing?

Enjoying your hobbies can be essential in overcoming tiredness, exhaustion, or even burnout because they promote the release of feel-good neurochemicals. According to Fortune, even thinking about an upcoming activity you enjoy can release dopamine. That’s a great way to become energized and motivated — especially when going through a slump.

So, if you want to do some self-care when you feel tired, consider finding a hobby that puts you in a relaxed state while making you happy. It can be reading, listening to music, playing board games with a group of friends, or going for a hike and enjoying the healing powers of nature.

Invest in Your Nutrition

One of the best ways to take better care of yourself when you feel tired is to optimize your nutrition.

By optimization, we do not mean going on a “healthy” restrictive diet to lose, maintain, or gain weight. Instead, try to find the right meal plan for your needs.

Basically, the aim is for you to have consistent energy levels throughout the day, without spikes where you can’t relax and crashes that can make you feel like you won’t be able to get out of bed.

Perhaps the best way to fix your energy levels with food is to pay attention to your glucose levels. Understanding how your food affects your sugar levels and learning how to prevent the excessive ups and downs (like going for a 30-minute walk after lunch) can be a great way to take better care of yourself and, even better, avoid feeling overly tired all together.

Clean up Your Sleep Habits

If you regularly wake up feeling tired and cranky, it might be time to evaluate your sleep hygiene.

For one, most people don’t get enough sleep. Even though the recommendation for adults is 7 to 9 hours per night, the average person sleeps less than that.

Moreover, most of us have poor habits that harm the quality of sleep we get — whether drinking caffeine too late in the evening, sleeping with the TV on, or allowing ourselves to stray from our regular sleep schedule when we feel like it.

Fortunately, the fixes can be pretty straightforward.

In addition to paying attention to light exposure in the afternoon, avoiding dopamine spikes before bed, and eating at the right time, it’s also a good idea to pay attention to our sleep surroundings. For example, by eliminating harmful materials and chemicals from our bedrooms by using a mattress without fiberglass, we can promote our health and ensure that we’re not losing precious sleep due to allergies or breathing difficulties.

Practice Saying No

Lastly, if you find it difficult to relax and put yourself first when you feel tired, evaluate your boundaries (or lack thereof).

Perhaps you find it difficult to practice self-care when you need it. Or you might have trouble saying no to people when they ask for help (even though you don’t have the time or energy to do what they’re asking). Maybe you just have a tendency to take on too many responsibilities without reserving some time for rest and recovery.

Whatever the case, make sure you know that it’s perfectly okay to say no to people when you feel like you need time for self-care.

Ultimately, refusing to do something at the expense of your health is the right thing to do for yourself. And having a bit less on your plate can be particularly important if you’re feeling chronically exhausted or dealing with burnout.

So practice saying no. Sure, it might not feel all that great at first. But at the end of the day, your goal should be to enjoy life and not merely try to get through the day without crashing.

Final Thoughts

There you have it: some relaxing (and a couple of challenging) self-care tips for when you feel tired.

As you can see, all of these strategies are things you can make part of your day-to-day routine. But getting the habits to stick may take some practice and some support.

So, if you find yourself feeling overly tired, don’t press yourself to achieve instant results. And more importantly, know that you don’t have to do everything alone. Chances are, there are people in your life who’ll be more than happy to pick up the slack and come to your aid when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

How to Prepare Your Body for a Workout

If you’re just starting to work out for the first time, there are probably dozens of questions swirling around your mind. You want to make sure that you’re doing it properly and not risking injury while also getting the results you’re after.

Even if you have been exercising regularly for a while, it can’t hurt to remind yourself of some of the vital routines for preparing your body for a workout. Here they are, in no particular order:

Make Sure to Get Enough Sleep

While you are sleeping, your body is hard at work repairing the damage you have caused during your last workout. If you don’t get enough sleep, these micro-tears in your muscles won’t have time to heal properly, and your next workout will be more difficult.

Prioritize getting quality sleep between workouts to both prevent injury and stay on the right track. If you work out a lot and eat well but don’t get enough sleep, you won’t see the results you were hoping for.

Eat the Right Meal

In order to get the most out of a workout, you will need to fuel your body for it. This means eating a pre-workout meal at the right time.

You want to eat a meal that has carbs, fat, and protein around 2-3 hours before you exercise. Carbs should be the main focus, as they will maximize your glycogen stores and help you push harder. You need protein to prevent muscle breakdown and fats for even more energy.

You can also consider having a cup of coffee before a workout. The caffeine will help you stay awake and give you a burst of energy when you need it most.

Make sure to tailor your pre-workout routine to your own body and exercise routine. Try a couple of different options until you figure out what works best for you.

Drink Lots of Water

In order to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, make sure to drink plenty of water before a workout, especially if it’s going to be a strenuous one.

You can also drink something other than water, as long as it’s not alcohol and as long as it’s not too high in sugar. A sports drink can also work very well, especially if it’s high in electrolytes.

Remind yourself to drink even if you aren’t particularly thirsty before a workout. When you start to sweat, your performance can quickly drop if you were already near dehydration at the beginning of your workout.

Choose the Right Gear

It is incredibly important to choose the right attire for your workout, depending on its nature. If you are going running, a looser top will do just fine. But if you are going to be lifting, try to wear something tighter, as you don’t want your shirt to hinder your movements and cause a mishap.

Pay special attention to your shoes. Running and lifting again require very different soles (the former something light and insulating, the latter something flat and sturdy), but so do all kinds of sports.

Wear something you feel comfortable in. It will help with the workout if you feel confident and energized.

Never Skip a Warmup

Warming up is probably the most essential way to prepare your body for a workout. If you skip this step, you’re much more likely to get injured or, at the least, to be painfully sore the next day.

Warming up does not have to take long. You can do some light cardio, like running, to get your heart rate up and signal to your body that it’s time to get going. More importantly, do some dynamic warmups of the muscles and joints that will be doing the exercise. Ideally, you want to do a full-body dynamic warmup to get the blood flowing and to ensure your body is ready for the challenge.

Map out the Workout

Before you start working out, you want to know what you will be doing. Don’t improvise on the spot: have a plan at the ready.

Ideally, you want to follow a specific plan that tells you how many exercises you are doing, in what order, with what weights, and how many reps. If you are running or swimming, you want to set yourself times to beat or distances to cover.

This will ensure you are progressively overloading properly and staying on track with your goals.

Even if you don’t have a plan to follow, at least take a couple of minutes to decide what you want to do. This will help you go from one exercise to another with ease, and you won’t have to spend any time thinking about what to do next.

Choose Your Playlist

Finally, don’t forget to choose a playlist that will match the workout. Don’t have just one workout playlist: it may not suit every mood, and you will get tired of it at one point.

Instead, create several playlists that you can use for working out. Choose tracks that you know will motivate you. You can even set up a specific order so that the best track comes on when you know you’ll need a little push.

If music is not your thing while exercising, choose a podcast to listen to in advance. If you work out at home and like to watch TV, choose a show that you won’t get too immersed in and that won’t distract you too much from the movement.

Wrapping Up

By applying these simple steps, you can prepare your body for your next workout and ensure you are achieving your goals while preventing injury and staying safe. Don’t skip them even if you are in a rush or don’t feel like drinking a glass of water. It’s the small things that can often make the biggest difference.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

7 Popular Movie and TV Filming Locations to Visit

What is it that makes stories immersive? Is it the plot? The characters? Or is it the setting that gives movies and TV shows that touch of magic?

No matter your answer to the question, you’ll agree that there’s something special about seeing those famous filming locations in real life. And thanks to the fact that traveling nowadays is easier (and more affordable) than ever, your dreams of getting to see King’s Landing from Game of Thrones or the Ben Rose House from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off can finally come true.

So, if you’ve already toured the movie lots and done your online research, here are the most exciting movie and TV filming locations to visit on your next adventure.

King’s Cross Station

Even though you may not have received your Hogwarts acceptance letter (yet), that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to go and catch the Hogwarts Express.

Between platforms 9 and 10 of this famous 19th-century train station, you’ll find the secret passage to Platform 9¾, where you can take a photo in your house colors. Or, if you’re still shopping for school supplies, visit the gift shop that looks just like Ollivander’s, where you’ll find robes, school jumpers, wands, and additional must-haves like Horcruxes (just in case, right?)

Griffith Observatory

Looking for the perfect date spot? Why not emulate Mia and Sebastian from La La Land and visit the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles? 

It’s a great place to visit, and you can take your pick of activities — regardless of whether you’d prefer to observe the night sky, explore exhibits, attend a lecture, or get a front-row seat to pose with the Hollywood sign.

Vatican City

Are you more of a culture and history aficionado? In that case, the best movie filming location for you to visit is Vatican City, the setting for the blockbuster hit Angels & Demons.

This UNESCO historical heritage site dates back to Ancient Roman times (the famous Vatican Obelisk was brought from Egypt by Caligula in 40 AD), while the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums date to the 14th, 15th, and 16th century. 

Vatican City is well worth a visit if you’re a Dan Brown fan, are interested in seeing some of the world’s most impressive Renaissance artworks, or if you simply want to see what one of the world’s most prominent noble families (the Borgias) lived like half a millennium ago.

San Domenico Palace

Are you obsessed with the resort aesthetic (and possibly the juicy drama) featured in season 2 of the White Lotus? In that case, you’ll be happy to hear that you can visit the dreamy resort in Taormina, Sicily.

The San Domenico Palace is a Four Seasons Hotel that may set you back north of $3,000 per night during the high season. Nonetheless, if you’re willing to treat yourself, then it’s absolutely a TV-inspired destination you should consider.

Of course, if you’re on a budget, there are always ways to save a bit of money when booking a holiday. From knowing where to book cheap flights to staying at an Airbnb instead of a luxury hotel, rest assured that you can fulfill all your Italian summer dreams, even if you don’t have those movie-level, endlessly deep pockets.

Angkor Thom

Are you an adventure lover, gamer, or fan of the Tomb Raider franchise? In that case, you’ll definitely want to add a visit to Angkor Thom to your bucket list.

Established in the 12th century as the capital of the Khmer Empire, the Great Angkor City served as the residence of royalty and kingdom officials, featuring multiple temples and impressive statues. Today, the abandoned site has blended in with nature, making for a spectacular movie filming location and an even more breathtaking place to visit on your trip through Southeast Asia.

Matamata

When Peter Jackson started preparing to film the Lord of the Rings trilogy, he knew that creating an out-of-this-world experience would be essential for getting viewers to immerse themselves in Tolkien’s fictional world. And, boy, did he succeed.

When his team designed the Hobbiton movie set in Matamata, New Zealand, they created a location that would not only look breathtaking on screen but which would attract tourists for years to come.

Today, you can tour the set, book a Second Breakfast experience, or even visit during one of the festivals or the Halfling Marathon for a unique opportunity to feel like a Hobbit (or wizard) bound for their next adventure.

Al-Khazneh

Finally, if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime movie-inspired adventure, consider paying a visit to the Al-Khazneh temple in Petra, Jordan. As the setting of the 1989 Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade blockbuster, this UNESCO World Heritage site has been attracting travelers from all around the world.

Historically, the temple was carved and sculpted into the surrounding cliff in the 1st century AD. Unfortunately, it’s in a state of erosion — and not just due to the 2,000 years that have passed since it was built. According to conservationists, the site is experiencing damage due to a large number of tourists and humidity, pointing out just how important sustainable tourism practices are if we want to preserve the world’s wonders for future generations to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, our top suggestions for which popular movie and TV filming locations you should visit on your next holiday. 

Whether you prefer to spend your summers on the Continent, want to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Southeast Asia, or are looking for places to visit that are close to home, you’re sure to see some breathtaking sights, have a restful break, and (at least partially) satisfy your wanderlust.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

7 Ways to Transform Your Patio into a Relaxing Retreat

Having a patio provides multiple benefits. It’s an ideal place to enjoy your morning coffee, a space for children to play, an entertaining area, and a zen retreat if needed. Of course, to be all that, the patio needs to be thoughtfully designed, which requires time and effort. And let’s not forget the financial investment as well.

If you feel your current patio design is dull and uninspiring, we have a few ideas that will help you turn it into a relaxing retreat. We’ve made sure to include some fantastic low-budget ideas, too, so read on. 

Divide It into Zones

Depending on the size of your patio, there are several ways to define patio zones. 

One great way to do it is by using area rugs, which can function as defining elements of specific areas, regardless of the square footage. The outdoor area rug needs to be weatherproof, UV resistant, and durable. It should also be large enough to cover the area underneath the furniture and leave some additional space. You can use different shapes and sizes for different areas or use the rug layering trick borrowed from interior design. 

Another inexpensive and convenient way to create different zones is by using hanging curtains. This way, you can create a temporary wall, a dreamy vibe, and also some privacy.

Consider the Interior-to-Exterior Transition

The patio is a transition zone between the interior and exterior. You can emphasize this by using comfortable furniture resembling that of a living room. Get a comfortable outdoor sofa in a style, material, and finish that complements your patio. Weather-resistant fabric is a must. Include soft, comfortable cushions. Cushions also come in handy if you want to add a pop of color, texture, or pattern.

Create Space for a Warm Gathering

Throughout history, fire has been a place around which people have gathered to cook meals, eat, tell stories, and spend time together. That’s why no patio would be complete without a fire feature. Traditional wood-burning fire pits are a go-to option for patios, but propane pits make a good alternative. The best propane fire pits are easier to maintain and use, and you will avoid dealing with ash and smoke. You can find them in different shapes and sizes to fit every patio style.

Choose a Functional and Striking Centerpiece

Speaking of gathering places — a dining table plays a huge role in the overall patio design, especially if you’re planning on using the outdoors for entertaining. To be used as a design element, the dining table should add a strong visual impact while being sturdy and durable. Dining tables that resemble cast stone could achieve that, but if you’re looking for a more vintage feel, explore your options with solid wood. The chairs around it could be of the same material, but you can play around with eclectic designs. 

Utilize Different Lights

If you are planning on spending time outside after the sun goes down, you’ll need to think beyond a few candles and lamps. Consider installing a semi-flush mount or an overhead pendant light above the dining table. Pay attention to both form and function. A carefully selected pendant light can be a striking design element as well. Think metallic shades, rattan, or iron. For bohemian design, you can opt for string lights above the dining area. Depending on the space at your disposal, you can also incorporate solar lights along the garden path or walkway.

Don’t Forget That You’re Outside

While there is a strong connection between the interior and the patio, you should always remember that the whole point of the patio is to spend time outside. This makes greenery the most important design element. Plant some plants and grass around the space and place large and small potted plants around the patio. The pots can also serve as visual elements if you choose interesting colors and patterns that match the style of the patio. If you are short on space, make a vertical garden.

Choose Pieces That Stand Out

Finally, the patio should show off your personality and overall family spirit. Adding unique pieces will make the patio design truly your own. They can come in the form of sculptural coffee tables, bold and colorful furniture, antique pieces, repurposed armchairs, and other one-of-a-kind items. Finish up with accessories such as wall art, garden statues, vases, flower racks, hammocks, and beverage coolers.

Wrap Up

These ideas should spark your imagination to create a patio based on your style and preferences. You can embrace them or change them as you like. Don’t hesitate to experiment and have a lot of fun creating a patio you’ll be proud of!

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

How to Create Your Own Workout Plan

If you want to start working out, you may be contemplating whether you need to hire a trainer, join a group class, or if you can do it all yourself (with a bit of help from the internet).

As long as you follow some basic precautions and do a bit of research, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to create a workout plan that matches your needs and schedule. Here is what you should bear in mind:

Define a Clear Goal 

The first step you need to take is to set a specific goal. Would you like to lose some weight, or would you like to build muscle? Do you want to improve your balance or posture, or are you just looking to get a bit more movement into your everyday schedule?

Having multiple goals is also perfectly acceptable; just make sure you’re specific about them. You can also try adding a loose timeframe to the goal. Don’t make it too rigid, as you don’t want to add any undue stress to the process, and you can’t know how your body will respond to your workout plan, so give yourself some time before you start tying yourself to specific dates and outcomes.

Choose the Right Activity

Once you know what your goal is, you can start assembling the right activities to achieve it. In most cases, you will need to do some strength training and cardio, but you can also do pilates, yoga, or play a sport if that’s what you’re into.

Make sure you choose activities you actually enjoy. There are dozens of options for both strength training and cardio. For example, you can work out with free weights, machines, or with bands. You can run, swim or bike, depending on what you find the most interesting.

Split Your Workouts Accordingly

After you have settled on these two points, it’s time to figure out your workout split. Start by considering your schedule. Realistically, how many times a week can you work out? If you only have two slots available, don’t commit to a five-day workout split. You’ll only end up disappointing yourself.

Count both your strength and your cardio days as “on” days, and make sure you never work on the same muscle groups two days in a row. Two of the most popular ways to split your workouts are into push/pull days or upper body/lower body days. You can also incorporate full-body days into the mix.

As for the exercises you want to incorporate, start with variations of the following:

● Lower body: squats, lunges, deadlifts, step-ups, hip thrusts
● Upper body: presses, dips, push-ups, rows, curls
● Core: planks, crunches, mountain climbers

Find the Right Reps and Weights

When you first start working out, make sure you run yourself through several different splits without any weights. Take note of what your body can do, which movements feel more comfortable, and how many bodyweight reps you can do without feeling sore.

There will be some trial and error, so start very easy and slow, and don’t push yourself too hard. Once you have all the movements down, you can start adding weights.

If you want to build strength, you want to be able to do 3-5 sets of 2-6 reps. If you want to build muscle, you are doing 3-47 sets of 6-12 reps. And if you want to build endurance, you will be doing 2-3 sets of 12-20 reps.

When you get to the point where you are able to do more reps or more sets, increase your weight. This is called progressive overload, and it will help you keep reaching your goal. Once you hit it, stick to the same weight for maintenance.

Track Your Progress 

Make sure you write everything down as you go: your rep and set counts, the weights you’re using, how long the workout lasts, and how you’re feeling afterward. This will help keep you on track and track your results.

As a treat, take a look at your figures after three months of working out. You’ll be amazed by how much you have progressed.

Adjust Your Diet and Supplement Intake 

You will likely need to adjust your diet when you start working out. Aim to eat at least 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight every day to ensure your muscles get all the nutrients they need.

Focus on eating fresh fruits and veggies, lean meats, and whole grains. You can also eat “unhealthy” foods from time to time, but at least 80% of your meals should consist of quality foods.

You can also add supplements to your routine to maximize your results. For example, a good pre-workout can help you enhance your workouts, while a protein supplement can ensure your body has enough building material to work with.

Don’t randomly start taking a supplement, though. Consult a personal trainer or your GP, and see what your body really needs.

Don’t Underestimate Rest Days

Finally, don’t forget that rest days are incredibly important. This is when your body actually does what you want it to do and repairs all the damage you’ve caused working out.

Make sure you have at least two rest days per week. You don’t have to sit on the couch all day (in fact, you shouldn’t). You can go for a light run or a walk but don’t lift and don’t do any vigorous exercise.

Most importantly, make sure you get enough sleep. Without it, the best workout routine and diet regime won’t be nearly as effective as it could have been.

Wrapping Up 

Take some time to read up on different kinds of workouts, workout splits, and supplements. Watch several videos about the proper way to execute an exercise before you start working out. Go slow, stay safe, and if you feel pain or discomfort, stop.

About The Author

Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.

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