The Self-Care Magazine, Issue 5 - Digital

www.theselfcaremagazine.com

Publisher & Editor-In-Chief

Paméla Michelle Tate

Digital & Graphic Designer Geaux Fig Co.

Copy Editors

Paméla Michelle Tate

Rita Green

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

Cynthia E. Fields, Joan Hampton, Takhia Gaither, Jennifer Eichelberger, Adrienne Lee-Lopes, Nicole Green, Nicole Green, Tammie Polk, Betty O'Brian, Bettie Jones, Jackie Castro Cooper, Dreisa Sherrill, Rolanda Pyle, C. Kelly Brinson, Tamara Gooch, GiGi Shabazz

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Rita Green

Paméla Michelle Tate

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THE SELF CARE MAGAZINE is published by Live The Life You Deserve, L.L.C. Views expressed in all articles, features, advertisements, and photography are those of the author/contributor and that is not an endorsement by THE SELF CARE MAGAZINE @2022 or Live The Life You Deserve, L.L.C. of any position that has been expressed. None of the content of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written consent from THE SELF CARE MAGAZINE or its parent company, Live The Life You Deserve L.L.C.

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Paméla Michelle Tate, PhD

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Paméla Michelle Tate, PhD

that it was infectious I remember her smile but I also remember the tension and agitation as these activities pushed me and my family members full throttle into spending time with people that they didn't necessarily like, understand or care for

I know several of you are nodding your head in agreement right now because you can see where this is going Yup, you know what I'm talking about: the unresolved differences with family members, the toxic comments that relatives or friends make about their family members' children, the family members that show up empty handed because they can't afford to fiscally show how much they love their family, and the overindulgent relatives that have to broadcast and showcase their wealth with extreme purchases done as transactions of charity "for family members that aren't doing so well this year." I could go on and on with examples but the short version of the story is the holidays can be the season of celebration or the season from hell dependent upon how YOU choose to step into it!

So, I am asking you to choose joy and forgiveness this holiday season Honor yourself, your limitations, and your boundaries Forgive those petty arguments about who makes the best Mac and cheese, forgive the aunt that didn't make it to your wedding because their friend was having a birthday party instead she's still your aunt right and you just have different priorities

With the holidays rapidly approaching, I smile when I think about all the sights sounds, and smells of the holidays

The holiday season has shifted greatly for me since I lost my mother I remember the traditions she created for our family like our annual cookie bake, our formal holiday photo, our shopping trip at midnight to begin Black Friday, and our Saturday after Thanksgiving "mail day," which was when we came together and wrote our family newsletter, addressed about 100 Christmas cards (not holiday cards), baked my grandmother's famous cookie recipe, and we also held our holiday sing a long that was never complete until we had our annual toast with egg nog while listening to the Jackson 5 Christmas Album and yes I mean the vinyl record!

While I loved the holidays and our traditions, the preparations for all of these activities created a lot of anxiety for me On the other hand, my mother moved through the preparation and execution of all of these activities effortlessly! Martha Stewart had nothing on my mother because she created joy with less than 1/8 of Martha's budget all while singing and smiling so hard

Keep the messages of hope and joy in your heart as we celebrate our savior's birth at the forefront of your mind! And remember, forgiveness is a form of self care because it soothes the soul and frees us to be jolly during this season of giving

With Love from my home to yours,

So release the pettiness and remember the joy and have yourself a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful holiday season!

Paméla Michelle Tate, Ph.D.

Editor In Chief & Publisher The Self Care Magazine

“Mom! What’s for dinner?”

“Honey!

Baby screams crying in the background Have you ever walked in your home from a long day of putting out fires at work, with a briefcase loaded down with more assignments and deadlines that need to be completed expeditiously then was met with all of the demands up above?

But wait a minute! Don’t you still have to “self-care”, as well? On my way home from work one day, I looked down at my phone and saw I had a request to cook steak and a need for my son to run by the store to get some items for a school project.

Then, I walked through the door and the dog had the nerve to look at me as if to say, “woman, are you going to feed me, bathe me and love me anytime today?”

There is no doubt the working woman has a lot on her plate and is oftentimes faced with having to meet the demands of projects within the workplace as well as the needs of those within her household. The following tips will be helpful in helping you to face those challenges.

Pick a day of the week to sit down in silence, and write down all of the things that you need to accomplish for the week. Once this list has been created, write down assignments for others within your home and business to help you accomplish these tasks.

For instance, if you know that you have a business meeting scheduled after work hours but you still need dinner to be fixed for the family that night, ask your partner if they would not mind arranging for dinner to be ordered, served or cooked for that one night.

Housework…ugh! The job that is never complete. And let’s face it. No one wants to or can live in a pigsty which would be the case if your to do list keeps on expanding. I would highly suggest professional help in the form of a housekeeper. This kills two birds with one stone. You get an awesome form of self-care that requires you to do nothing but sit and enjoy the fruits thereof. And you get to have one less thing off of the to do list that you didn’t have to actually complete yourself. If it’s not within your budget to do so, or you just don’t feel comfortable with someone in your home, break down your workload. Pick a different room in the house and set a time frame to clean it from top to bottom. So, on your weekly to do list you would write the following:

Monday

Clean the Guest Bedroom

Tuesday

Deep Clean the bathrooms

Wednesday

Clean the Master bedroom

Thursday

Clean the children’s room (but only if they are small and can’t manage to do this themselves).

Friday

Deep Clean the Kitchen

Saturday

Clean the Lanai Sunday Yard Work

In business, learn how to delegate. Let’s face it, we are amazing people who can do anything we put our mind to. However, do you really have time to use your superpowers to do everything including shopping for toilet tissue in the office when you also have to manage staff or spend hours typing up lengthy reports and proposals.

Think about ways in which you can involve others to help you to manage the workplace and to help you to complete your primary duties that only you are able to do.

The key to work life balance is to set goals and have a plan, then implement this plan to address all of what has been entrusted to you to handle. Guess what?

YOU GOT THIS!

Can you help me find my favorite blue paisley tie?”

Joan Hampton resides in Gulfport, Mississippi. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Counseling Supervisor and CEO of Oasis Mental Wellness, LLC, and owner of Shop Oasis Wellness in Biloxi, MS. She is a Mental Health Maven whose 20-year career spans multiple areas. www.shopoasiswellness.com

Tips for Putting Yourself First During the Festive Season

In popular culture, the holidays are portrayed as a time of fun and goodwill, when loved ones get together to celebrate A lot of people, however, have recently started talking frankly about the less merry aspects of this time of year

It's no secret that these are trying times for anyone dealing with mental illness or with loved ones who are experiencing mental health difficulties. Perhaps we're looking forward to the impending celebrations in the hopes of feeling closer to and more understood by others in our immediate vicinity. Or maybe we fantasize of enjoyable family dinners but find it difficult to integrate It's possible that we'll make plans to hang out with pals, only to feel isolated and overwhelmed by bouts of sadness

However, it is possible to cope with these "holiday blues " We can get through the season with a little help from these ideas for self care activities

Be Aware Of Your Capacity and Work Within It

There is always a laundry list of things to do, places to go, and people to see throughout the holiday season These lists can be exciting and invigorating at times, but they can also be mentally and

Written by GiGi Shabazz

physically tiring You must learn to set limits and say "enough" or " no " It's better to have a few short, productive adventures than to overcommit and burn oneself out Limiting yourself to only one or two stores for an afternoon outing instead of a full day trip is one way to manage the time you spend on Christmas errands It's important to stop and rest every once in a while. Going with a friend or two can be a great morale booster and add an extra layer of enjoyment to your adventure.

Limiting your holiday social activities is another option. Spend your precious resources on those who will return the favor There's no rule that says you have to go to every party you're invited to It might be exhausting to spend time with certain people Protect yourself by denying their invitation if necessary A quick phone call to say "sorry" and "good holidays" offers minimal involvement and an easy way out

Establish Realistic Goals

There is no way to not have lofty expectations for the holiday season, what with constant reminders that this is a time of goodwill, celebration, and plenty But it's just as crucial to have an internal

checkup on how well we're doing at keeping our hopes and expectations in check

In order to avoid being let down, it's important to keep your expectations of other people and of life in general realistic Having no expectations at all is also unreasonable because it sends the message that you don't care what other people think about you In order to foresee how people will treat you in the future, it is helpful to take an open and honest look at how they have treated you in the past

Avoiding Potential Triggers

A lot of people find the holidays to be a time of heartache because of the memories they bring up. Substitute more emotionally satisfying activities or encounters for the ones that tend to set you off. Avoid watching Christmas films that bring up painful memories or old friends who have passed away

Think carefully before attending a holiday gathering when a difficult cousin or acquaintance will be there Don't interact with them further if you do If you're unable to stay for the entirety of the event, simply stop by for a quick registration

Look for Ways to Help Others

There is no better time to give to others than the holiday season

Supporting service troops stationed in risky or far flung locales is a great way to give back this holiday season Also, think about volunteering at a food bank in your area Making Care Kits to distribute to homeless people is another way you may help your community.

Furnish To Relax In

When the holiday season rolls around, it's not uncommon to be engulfed by a veritable forest of garlands However, you don't have to hold this kind of party in your own home You don't have to stick to the tried and true formula of using red and green for Christmas if you don't (unless they bring you joy, of course) Choose hues that make you feel at ease, joyful, safe, light, and peaceful

Think about bringing out your favorite blanket or snuggling up with your favorite pillow Pick a hue that helps you feel at ease Do you have a favorite

scent that takes you back to a certain memory? A new candle or essential oil could help transform your home into the relaxing haven you deserve

Try to be more generous with yourself The holidays are a great time to show gratitude to the people in your life, but it's also important to take some time to honor yourself This Christmas season, while you shop and give gifts, consider getting or making something for your future self that will help improve your mental health or inspire you to pick up a new and beneficial pastime

You might want to send yourself a greeting card or two. Come up with a positive phrase or jot down a note that will bring to mind a time or strength that will serve as a reminder. Take some time now to write a note to your future self and mail it to yourself Make time in your schedule to take care of your most precious asset: you!

I hope you have a wonderful Christmas season You, your loved ones, and your friends all benefit from your taking care of yourself, so set aside or schedule some time for this

Do you remember the little saying, "Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words can never hurt us?" That is not true. Words can lift us up or tear us down that is why tasting your words first before speaking to them is essential. We are on the verge of entering a season where the average person's 10,000 taste buds will be affected. Most of the taste buds are located on the tongue. The tongue also aids in extraordinarily agile and quick speaking: producing more than 90 words per minute, utilizing more than 20 different movements However, only when the tongue, lips, and teeth work together to make sounds from the throat turn into understandable letters and words. Now that I have taken you on a brief Human Anatomy trip, let me get back to why I say your words matter and the importance of tasting them first. Words are a vital part of our existence.

Daily we use words to communicate with others. On average, most people say at least 10,000 words per day While we often place greater emphasis on tasting the words before we speak them to others, we often fail to extend that same grace utilizing only a few, if any, of the average said 10,000 taste buds we possess to taste the words we speak to ourselves. I love the holiday season for so many reasons, especially the gathering of family and friends, the sharing of old traditions and creating new ones, and yes, indeed, the tasting of family and friends’ specialty

foods. I humbly have a few requests before we head out to those gatherings, and even afterward, let us be mindful that some family, friends, co workers, and even ourselves may be in a season that is not our choice A season where we may be tasting loss and grief instead of tasting joy and peace Therefore, tasting of our words before speaking to them is important, ensuring they are seasoned with love, kindness, and nourishment for all.

One of my favorite quotes by Jeff Brown reads on this wise, “Word. So powerful".

They can crush a heart or heal it. They can shame a soul or liberate it They shatter dreams or energize them They can obstruct connection or invite it They can create defenses or melt them We have to use words wisely " So, while we are gathering and tasting those delightful dishes this holiday season, let us also remember to taste our words first before speaking them to ourselves and others. So, what am I bringing to the table this holiday season as my favorite dish? I will bring words with a taste of kindness, togetherness, hope, love, and healing because I want my words to bring nourishment to myself and others. So, taste your words first before speaking to them Our words matter!

W r i t t e n b y C h a r l e s e t t a K B r i n s o n

C Kelly Brinson is a native of Huntsville, Alabama She is a 37 year careerist with the Department of Defense, CEO/Life Coach at Gen 3 Life Coach & Consulting LLC, and published Author of Path to Purpose 52 Words & Life Application for Self Empowerment A Servant Leader, paying it forward to the next Generation

ROLANDA T PYLE is a licensed social worker and consultant She is currently the Part time Community Outreach Specialist at Sunnyside Community Services CARE NYC, where she was previously Assistant Director She was a consultant with the Assigned Counsel Project, and before that, Associate Director of the Brookdale Foundation's Relatives as Parents Program (RAPP) at the Brookdale Foundation She was also the Director of the New York City Department for the Aging's Grandparent Resource Center for ten years.

She has received numerous awards for her work with grandparents raising grandchildren, including the 2004 Sloan Public Service Award and HBO's 2004 Beah Richards Spirit Award New York's Daily News named her one of the "100 Women Who Shape Our City" in April 2004.

SING & DADDY'S MUSIC

W r i t t e n b y R o l a n d a T P y l e s

SING

Sing, sing, sing Come on, do your thing Let those praises ring To others, joy you bring When you sing

Songs that uplift, songs that reprove Songs that help us get into our groove Songs that give our Lord the praise Songs we remember for the rest of our days.

Sing in the morning, sing in the night Sing when things go wrong and definitely when they are right Sing, for music is the key to life Able to lift burdens and ease strife

So sing, sing, sing Come on, do your thing Let those praises ring To others, joy you bring When you sing.

Rolanda T. Pyle (c) All Rights Reserved

TRIBUTE TO DADDY'S MUSIC

Ella jumps Sarah’s sassy Billie thumps Carmen’s brassy Gloria croons Aretha’s queen Gladys booms Diana’s supreme!

Nat’s king Jimmy plays Marvin sings John sways Miles blows Nancy’s mellow Ray crows Patti bellows!

Jazz strokes Gospel provokes Calypso whines Reggae shines Blues soothes R&B smooths Rap grooves Music makes me want to move!

Learned to listen at Daddy’s feet Where he would listen to different beats Learned to appreciate with Daddy’s ear All kinds of music I would hear. Learned that music was in his heart That’s how my love for music got its start.

A tribute to the music my father listened to, especially JAZZ! Also, a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday, Carmen McCrae, Gloria Lynne, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Diana Ross, Nat King Cole, Jimmy Smith, Marvin Gaye, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Nancy Wilson, Ray Charles and Patti LaBelle, whom I listened to as I grew up.

Rolanda T. Pyle (c) All Rights Reserved

ROLANDA T PYLE is a licensed social worker and author of the books “Grandma’s Hands” a children's storybook, “Finally” a collection of inspirational poems; and “Beneath His Everlasting Wings”, a collection of devotionals In April 2004, New York's Daily News named her one of the "100 Women Who Shape Our City " www rorosrainbowcommunications com

ELF-CARE ON A BUDGET

Sometimes, the source of a lot of our stress is money So many people worry about how much they’re making, how much they’re spending, and so on Naturally, when it comes to improving yourself both physically and mentally, you don’t want to go stressing yourself out about expensive options for them.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get into a good self care routine First, physical fitness can appear to cost a lot on the surface

You might be thinking about getting all new gym clothes, gym bags, water bottles, supplements, a membership, and so much more Truthfully, though, that’s not necessary

All those things can either be substituted for something cheaper or gotten rid of altogether, helping you cut costs immensely When it comes to gym accessories, the less you have the better

You don’t need a ton of stuff, so you really don’t even need a bag unless you intend to change at the gym As far as clothes go, anything vaguely comfortable and athletic is good enough, such as a t shirt and shorts

You don’t need to buy top brands For water bottles, you can find cheap reusable bottles you don’t have to invest in trendy, top notch bottles. In terms of supplements, they’re not necessary, as you can get the nutrients and vitamins you need from carefully picking out certain foods.

Finally, you don’t even need a gym membership in all honesty Plenty of people have made gyms at home with readily available equipment to help them stay in shape You can do bodyweight exercises without machines, too.

Mental health is very similar. People like to think of it as having to go out and get expensive massages and spa treatments or pay a ton of money with a therapist, but you can get far in terms of mental health just by doing things at home, or really anywhere, all for free

For example, meditation can help immensely and that is entirely free If you don’t know how to do it, you don’t need to hire a coach, but just go online and learn about which methods work best

You can also do some reasonably priced self care spa days from home with some low cost ingredients from your local grocery store and some instructions from the internet Talking out your problems with others is like a free form of therapy and can even help create bonds If you are wondering what cost effective ways to practice self care on a budget, here are a few suggestions

Stargaze - $0

Lay on your back and marvel at your complete and utter smallness in comparison to the rest of the universe

Journal $0

start today by giving yourself time to write down your dreams, fears, and longings. Then reflect on your life and the

lessons you ’ ve learned No judgment

Take a walk - $0

Get outside and get some sun! Clear your mind with a brisk walk, you are guaranteed to feel rejuvenated and energized within minutes

Breathe Deeply $0

Doing this relaxes you and allows stress to be washed away During times when you feel tensed up, stop and take a moment to breathe deeply and consciously

Sit Quietly - $0

Calm your mind by sitting still and quiet for about 5 10 minutes each day No noise

Say NO! I know it can be hard sometimes, but learning to say no when you don’t want to do something is a necessary skill to have in life Practice it in the mirror and soon you will see how freeing it is to say no without worrying about what others will think of you or feeling guilty

Multi purposeful serial entrepreneur, Master Certified Coach International Best Selling Author Transformational Speaker, & Podcast Host

Empowering family centered women in the start up phase, seeking to eradicate clutter, gain clarity, optimize time management, and build a profitable online business Doing so w/o sacrificing freedom and time with family but most importantly self! tamaracgoochconsulting com

8-DAYS A-BREAKING SELF-CARE TIPS FOR TEACHERS

Written by Takhia Gaither

And just like that, it’s November and we start to look forward to all the breaks For some of us Thanksgiving week ends up being a cross between time off, (my former district used to bribe us with evening conferences to get an extra day off), and an extended weekend. In either case, we take it because up next is that break we start counting down to from the first day of school … The Illustrious Wonder, known as Winter Break!

Now, my fellow veteran teachers, many of us have this down to a science. The work bag with the pile of papers to grade and books to semester plan sits nicely by the front door where we drop it, in a corner of an office, or perhaps in the car or front seat of the car until sometime on New Year’s Day, (or maybe one day during the week), when we binge out on something streaming and get it done in a day to be ready on January 2nd!

This article is for new teachers, those new to the profession, or those who are in a new school, new role, or new district I have been in this space a few times, especially as a single educator Winter Break

looks like an uninterrupted week we need to get on top of everything, so we plan to rest Christmas Eve, Day, New Year’s Eve, and some of New Year’s Day. But the rest of the time, we’re working. I’m going to strongly encourage you to not do that. Resist the temptation. Breaks are important for our morale in addition to our mental and physical health. Here are three ways you can find a happy medium between taking a break and fighting that urge to overwork.

1 If you decide to do work, create a list of no more than 3 things you want to do and then set a timer to get them completed This is not a license to pressure yourself into a working frenzy. It’s setting boundaries for your time and honoring your need for a break.

2. If you chose to check your work email, do NOT do it every day, and also do not respond. Include it as one of your tasks in step one and that’s the only time you check it. I would like to add to this, do not answer parents either. We are constantly told to make ourselves available but realistically, we shouldn’t always be available In fact, don’t check it until you get back to work on January 2, 2023 Set the away message as your response to everything and leave that right where it is.

3. Take at least one full day that is not one of the four “holidays” during the break and do absolutely nothing. What you decide to do with your nothing is your business. For me, sometimes nothing was really nothing. I sat in bed all day watching movies. These days are your resets It gives you time to release stress and get a clear mind On your “do nothing” day, choose to do any activity that relaxes you And do not convince yourself that work is relaxing This is a lie we tell ourselves when we’re teetering on being workaholics. (At least that was my story.)

I can tell you from experience these three things seem small, but they are so important. Veteran teachers gave me this advice when I first started and for the first few years of teaching, I didn’t listen. The result was that I would come back from breaks feeling more stressed out than when I left I don’t want that for you Teaching can be and is a very rewarding profession

The thing they don’t tell you when you start is that to endure it, you must take your breaks

Author, editor, and coach, Takhia Gaither is CEO of The Ready Write-Her Writing Services. She has also written for various online and in-print journals and blogs hosts a podcast and is the author of Redefining Me: Lessons Learned in the Refiner’s Fire and Be the Overcomer: A Bible Study Workbook. thereadywrite-her@tsgsgroup.com

Being a mom and a wife comes with many responsibilities; by adding in a career and my desire to succeed personally and professionally, I always put myself on the back burner. I had trouble understanding how to create a work-life balance.

There has never been a time in my life when I was not busy with a million responsibilities that I had to handle all my own I realize now that I lacked the skill of balancing life and a career I was taught to work hard for what I wanted, and the rest would come later As women, we are taught to handle so much and to be the support system for everyone, but we lack the support when it comes to ourselves

Life has a funny way of making you pause and self reflect I realized this when I noticed that my mental health started to affect my physical health I was eating well and exercising, but it was not enough It was no longer just the physical exhaustion; I was mentally and emotionally exhausted I knew it was time for a change, and I was left wondering how I would learn to balance work and life and still feel like I had succeeded personally and professionally

The first step was to acknowledge I was taking on too much and needed change by reprioritizing, unplugging, finding serenity, and creating balance through organizing, and scheduling

Reprioritizing

•I started by removing tasks and responsibilities that were not lucrative to my personal and professional growth

•Accountability: I could not do it alone I needed a mentor or an accountability partner to help me focus and implement this change I signed up for a life coach who would hold me accountable and help me through my growth processes

Unplugging

•I set time to unplug from social media and avoid using digital or electronic devices

•Completing a digital detox I had to learn to relax and do nothing, even if there were things to do.

•Muting email and phone notifications.

Saying No and asking for help

•Learning the word, NO!” I had to learn to be all right with letting go and saying NO.

•Asking for help! I realized that I did have support and it was acceptable to ask for help. Unfinished tasks: Being fine with not completing all my tasks. It will get done. Why stress? Just unplug and rest.

Organization and scheduling

I needed to get better at organizing and scheduling time to leave room for me We all know the saying, "there are not enough hours in a day," so why try and do everything? Some things can wait for another day

WORK-LIFE BALANCE & LEARNING HOW TO LOVE YOU AND CELEBRATE YOURSELF!

Written by Nicole Green

•I had to learn not to overschedule myself I learned to be honest and realistic about what I can and cannot do

•Learning to prioritize tasks more efficiently I created a to do list to keep things in order by priority and leave room for unexpected changes

•Learning to segment my day for work, home, and school helped make my tasks more manageable

Finding serenity Learning to be calm, peaceful, and untroubled

•I learned to stop and enjoy life It is gratifying to have fun!

•I started doing things that added peace and value to my life!

•I was excited about taking control and doing things with a purpose

•Enjoying time alone; I learned to be all right with doing things alone

•Bucket list: I created a list of things I’ve always wanted to do, and I plan to just do it!

Through this rollercoaster of a personal journey, I grew to understand I just needed to take the first step and that there is never a correct way to create work life balance; however, I can stop and take a deep breath and just breathe. I understand now I can't do it all! But I must remember to prioritize self focus, self care, and loving myself because it all starts there!

Takhia is the founder of the TSGS Group, home of Takhia the Teacher, The Ready Write Her and Redefining You Coaching and Mentoring Services She is a published editor, co author of 9 anthologies, and creator of a Bible study workbook, various journals, and two blogs, Takhia the Teacher and Redefining Thoughts

Thoughtful Holiday Gifts for Family Caregivers

by Cynthia E. Fields, MSOD, MPA

The holiday season is my favorite time of year. Colorful Decorations! Christmas Carols! Christmas Cookies! Corny Christmas movies! I want it all! The holiday season is also known as the season of gifting. As someone who enjoys both giving and receiving gifts, I make an extra effort to give people gifts that they would like and enjoy themselves. What is the point of me giving them something that caters to my interests if it does not cater to theirs? Case in point…when I was in undergraduate school, my long-term boyfriend gave me a RED TASMANIAN DEVIL THROW PILLOW for my birthday. Yep, the Tasmanian Devil from the Looney Toons franchise and he was playing golf. My first thought was “Did he buy this on clearance?” I was not a fan of golf, nor did the colors on the pillow match anything in the apartment that I shared with my mother. I was so confused. Shortly after receiving it, I ended up donating it to the Salvation Army because it had no meaning to me.

If there are caregivers in your life, some of the best gifts are ones that help them to feel supported and give them welldeserved time off from caregiving. The time off allows them the chance to rest, recharge and have some fun! Here are some holiday gift ideas for caregivers:

1. A Break from Caregiving - Caregiving can take a toll on the mind, body, and spirit. Make a commitment to help with caregiving tasks…a weekend, a day, a few hours; whatever you can do on a regular basis will be of tremendous help.

2. Coffee Dates - Being a caregiver can be lonely and isolating. Help them to get out of the house by taking them to or meeting them at a local coffee shop. If they live far away, give them a gift card, make a phone date, and meet up for a virtual coffee date.

3. Spa or Massage Treatments - Caregiving can be stressful with very few opportunities to relax. Gifting a gift card or gift certificate to their favorite nail salon or local spa provides them an opportunity to de-stress and be pampered.

4. A Meal Caregivers often have to prepare separate meals: one for their loved ones and one for themselves and their family. A gift card to their favorite restaurant, or delivery service such as Uber Eats or Grubhub, eliminates the need to leave the house and instead have the food delivered to their door. Meal Delivery Kit services such as Hello Fresh and Blue Apron are great long-term options.

5. House Cleaning - Because so much time and attention is designated to caring for their loved ones, house cleaning is sometimes one of the last items on a To-Do List. Hire a cleaning service or offer to handle some cleaning yourself. For the tech-savvy caregiver, a robot vacuum can be gifted to help keep the floors clean.

6. House Maintenance - Taking care of the exterior of a home can be taxing. Hire a landscaper, lawn mowing service, or gutter cleaners, or handle these tasks yourself.

7. A Journal - Many caregivers experience worry, fear, anxiety, depression, and frustration. Journaling can be cathartic.

8. Neck and Back Massager - Massagers are good for providing short-term neck, shoulder, and back pain relief. They also help to reduce stress and increase relaxation at the end of a long, hard day.

9. Smart Alarm Clock - With features like mood lighting and soothing sounds, and customizable sleep and waking programs, this gift can set the right tone for bedtime — and for waking up refreshed.

10. Yoga Equipment - Yoga is a good way to relax the body and mind. A yoga mat, yoga gear (clothes, socks, water bottle), and a gift certificate to a yoga class are great options.

“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Written

Cynthia E. Fields is an international and #1 best-selling author, writer, motivational speaker, organizational strategist, and Human Resources leader. Her overall life’s purpose is inspiring and encouraging others, especially disadvantaged youth and women clientele. Cynthia is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Church of Christ. Are you a candle enthusiast like me? Do you enjoy all things scented? If so, follow me on Instagram @daintybbwchic | fields.cynt@gmail.com

My journey is not unlike multitudes people who live with tremendous responsibilities who search to find a way to cope and find balance in their daily life As a 64 year old woman, I am a mother, a daughter, manage a home, serve as a caregiver for my mother and my husband, as well as a myriad of other duties By sharing my story, it is my desire to provide inspiration and motivation to anyone that is sliding down into the “rabbit hole” of life

In recent months I often stated that I felt like an octopus with each leg pulled in a different direction. Work responsibilities, family health concerns, family relationship issues, financial uncertainty, extensive community involvement, and permanently moving to a new state brought about a level of stress that became almost intolerable Insomnia kicked in and it became increasingly difficult to physically make it through each day As the pressure mounted, I reached a point of desperation one evening and decided to head for the ocean where I could find comfort in the deep water I could depart from the chaos of life and the heavy burdens that I carried With my toes touching the water’s edge, a ding from my watch jolted me back into reality A text message saved my life

Mature women often suffer in silence when the world around us becomes

too much to bear We walk around with a smile on our face as if we have no care in the world Because we have reached a certain age, we are supposed to have the answers to all of life’s problems and the strength to withstand the vast challenges thrown our way All the while these forces pull us further and further from the center of who we are The octopus becomes stretched to the limit in every direction and unless we cut off the legs we will eventually be pulled apart

Understanding this reality took serious self examination and the commitment to seek help It was evident that I did not have the tools needed to climb out of the hole I was in, and I took a tremendous step forward to find a counselor that could work into my schedule I opted to pursue an online counseling service and it was the right decision for me Being able to pour out my heart to someone that was completely objective and not judgmental allowed me to genuinely share my feelings and know that I would get honest feedback. Openly talking about my issues allowed for self discovery and along with the journaling exercises helped me to gain control of the issues that seemed so insurmountable Slowly and deliberately, I addressed each of the “legs” and found that as I focused on one area the others seemed to begin to fall into place. In a short four months, I successfully found inner peace and

recentered my focus as I continue to deal with the challenges of life. The octopus is back in shape

I cannot stress enough the importance of self care and seeking professional help when feelings of despair or stress become too much to manage. There are a multitude of resources both in person and online available that can work with your finances, schedule, and level of need. Remember that you never have to be alone in your journey no matter how difficult it may be

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 (3 digit dialing)

I Am an Octopus!

W r i t t e n b y D r e i s a S h e r r i l l

Dreisa Sherrill of North Myrtle Beach is a graduate of Catawba College with a B A degree in Chemistry and Commerce, Appalachian State University with an M A degree in Educational Administration, and completed doctoral coursework at UNC Greensboro She is a retired school administrator and recently launched her new business Queen D Consulting LLC www queen d consultingllc com

LIVING L LOVING

Written by Betty Sue O

How many times do I hea “My bloodwork is perfect there is no pill to fix me? hurts, I have no ene constipation or diarrhea, a several times a day.” They was, with instructions to Ibuprofen 4 times a day fo

Last week, I talked with perfect bloodwork but w next day with stage 4 canc

Back in the ’90s, this soun divorcing, facing custody poorly My back hurt, I wa kept losing weight Even came through changing m yoga and meditation, but slow in coming When I go vowed to help others lea self love and self care I r the market (see a list a article).

We are all connected. We not only with all humanit there is. As our world influ influence our world. Yet, f have migrated away from lost much of the knowledg mother took for granted and long distance tra replaced the monthly tr pharmaceutical compani manufacturers have rep knowledge of plants an common sense My grand chicken in the yard My chicken wrapped in plast find my chicken grown loca

Then there are the prescription meds to suppress natural processes: put out the fires of digestion with the purple pill, add something to sleep and something to wake up, or take a popular laxative propylene glycol, providing dehydration and further inflammation as the body tries to handle the toxic load A client has a 6 year old who has been on Miralax for months the label reads under ingredients: “polyethylene glycol 3350”

Are our homes one of the sources of many of our illnesses? Xenoestrogens, found in man made products such as Carpet Fresh and Pine Sol, flood our indoor environments and therefore our bodies New carpets, blinds, and polyurethane coatings exude harmful artificial estrogens into the home air.

Consider not only where we live and what we eat, but also what we apply to the hair, teeth, and skin. Imagine that everything we put in our bodies is absorbed and enters the bloodstream to be handled and eliminated by the lymph The fluoride and sodium laurel sulfate in toothpaste and aluminum in antiperspirants go into the body Doesn’t a warning not to swallow what you brush your teeth with seem like a red flag to you?

I was speaking to my vet the other day about my dog’s diet She suggested that the indoor environment and the commercial food might be the reason for his skin problems and lethargy “Put him on this organic, natural food with omega threes and take him outside as much as possible ” Have you been advised to consider these factors in your own health? The vet knows that the hormones and pesticides might be harming the pets, yet humans are drinking milk from cows that have been shot full of hormones and fed on genetically engineered grains to fatten them up. Then the milk is homogenized and

pasteurized to be sure that nothing could live in it, not even the good bacteria necessary for digestion and absorption of nutrients

What part do emotional patterns play in the inheritance of illness? Anger, hatred, resentment, and jealousy do they stress us to the point of physical breakdown, and can we break these patterns in this lifetime so that our children do not have to inherit them? In a family, there might be a pattern of false judgment

So “issues are in the tissues” and “ our biography becomes our biology” but where can we turn for the knowledge, we all crave? Right now, for the most part, it is up to each of us to practice our own self care, to live in love and light, to express and accept gratitude, and to be a light unto the world.

Betty Sue studied dietetics and literature at USM where she received a Master's Degree and began a teaching career at MGCCC In 2002, she became a Naturopathic Doctor with a degree from the School of Natural Medicine She operates a "wellness school" with students all over the world bettysueobrian com

in the parents, for example

THE 5 G'S OF AN AUTHOR'S Self-Care

As authors, the thought of consistently putting our hearts on paper can be daunting While we never want to disappoint our readers, we become our own worst critics

Many authors can masterfully write about self care, yet we see it as wishful thinking because we have literary goals screaming at us

So, what is an author to do?

There are five things that authors need to do to keep themselves sane and serving as they write to reach the masses:

1 Give yourself some GRACE understand that you are not above something happening to you I remember my journey and battle with an illness I thought that I was going to have to give up on my goals and that everyone would be upset with me I soon found that my readers cared more about me taking the time I needed to heal than for me to get my next release completed

2 Understand that GRIT applies to self care as well it takes WORK to allow yourself to still and quiet your mind enough to step away You are allowed to do just that! We write about “doing the work” and making time for ourselves, yet we will work ourselves into a stupor, thinking that our rest will come after we ’ re done There’s only one problem with that your body will SOON disagree with you I take an entire six weeks off EVERY year and I am always better for it

3 See proper self care as a sign of GROWTH we write about boundaries, non negotiables, and the like while praising those who reach out to us for making those growth strides But are YOU doing it? One of the worst things an author can do is not practice what they preach. If you are stuck, stale, stagnant, sunken, and sullen, it could be that you aren’t focused on the growth of the WHOLE person What’s the use in growing in your craft when you ’ re drained and feeling as though life is being sucked out of you? When you stop to take care of YOU, people notice and your impact increases all the more

4 Practice GRATITUDE believe it or not, exhaustion and burnout as an author can and will come from not giving thanks for the lean and not so lean times, your readers, and those who have been in your corner from day one When all you focus on is what’s going wrong, what you ’ re behind on, what’s not selling, etc , you are robbing yourself of being able to see what’s going right, what you ’ re ahead on, and what IS selling. Ingratitude can come from that self inflicted blindness that stems from expecting perfection at every turn

5 Celebrate your GRADUATION DAY and that does NOT mean to go RIGHT into your next project either! Take the time to bask in the glow of that new piece Allow it to be front and center for a while There’s nothing worse than tarnishing your joy by saying, “Yay, it’s done! Okay now what’s up next?” Give

yourself the space to wallow in the win because the time will come when doing so will be the only thing that keeps you going Whether someone else is clapping for you or not, YOU need to make a big deal out of YOU and what YOU have accomplished! YOU made another stride and THAT is worth CELEBRATING!

Now, you may look at this list and wonder how in the world any of this can be possible when you are inundated with so much at one time The answer is simple you have to learn to make yourself a priority because no one else will until you do!

When you don’t make your self care a priority, you will find yourself angrier than you need to be Then how will you make your impact? You won’t in the way you are meant to, so take care of yourself!

Tammie T Polk is a wife, mother, author of over 150 books, award winning speaker, and Goal and Dream Fulfillment Coach for the busily stressed mama who has big goals is tired of waiting on someone else's permission or timeline to achieve those goals, and

www professionallysassy me

wants to do it now!

The Energy Of Lack, Attracts The Energy Of Lack.

Since I turned 60 years young this year, I noticed a trend in the last ten years of my life.

When I focused on how much I already had, which is a form of self care/self love, instead of what I was lacking, I received more of what I needed

Two examples come to mind When I stopped saying I couldn't afford a trip to Spain and focused on a child I could treat with a rare disease in Barcelona, my income from my books started rising and I was able to buy my airline ticket A caring gift to myself and the child

When I stopped worrying about how I was going to care for my mom that didn’t want to move to Mississippi and live with me because I live, “In the middle of nowhere” LOL her words, not mine, then the home care assistant needed started to become a reality A loving gift for her and myself

The Power of Self Care/Self Love: A Physical Therapist's Guide to Evolving Into Your Higher Self and Journal is Jackie's book She created The Back & Neck Pain Relief Method: The Surprising Gut and Brain Connection online healing series

THE ENERGY OF LACK, ATTRACTS THE ENERGY OF LACK

Written by Jackie Castro Cooper, MPT

The words, “I can’t afford” and the thoughts of worry that we create, send the energy of lack into the universe. Go ahead and write down two things that you feel you don’t have enough of. Money, time, peace, beautiful clothes, etc…. What does that feel like in your body?

Now, do these two things: Write down what you have right now that you didn’t have when you were 25 Bring your attention to your body and take a deep breath with gratitude for your health

You’ve now entered the realm of truth and self care where everything changes

Acknowledging what you already have and this breathing exercise is a form of self care/self love It removes you from the energy of lack and catapults you into the energy of abundance

For some insight into why this works Dr David Hawkins’ book, Power VS Force tells why this works Thirty years of his research show us that our thoughts create energy in the body that makes us physically weak or strong Love is a very high vibrational frequency

As Marianne Williamson reminds us:

“In a universe where only love is real, I need not be deterred by the appearance of fear Where there is a lack in the material world, I proclaim the infinite abundance of the spiritual universe. Where there is discord and conflict on the material plane, I proclaim the love that unites us as one. ”

The new season of abundance is here and waiting for us my friend. We already have all that we need

Jackie Castro Cooper is a holistic, alternative physical therapist and speaker Her books, The Power of Self Care/Self Love and The Power of Self Care/Self Love Journal Workbook are loved by everyone You can find her at jackiecastrocooper com

SELF- CARE: HEALTHY HOLIDAY EATING TIPS

Written by Rev Dr Jennifer Eichelberger

The holidays are upon us and it is that time of year when there is an over-abundance of food everywhere: home, work, family, and social events just to name a few. This can be a bit tricky to navigate especially when it comes to family and they have spent hours painstakingly preparing your favorite savory dish that is next to impossible to pass up. However, with a bit of planning, you can get through the holidays without gaining additional weight or without hurting anyone’s feelings.

But before I give tips on how to maintain good eating habits and not overindulge, I would like to take a moment to remind readers of my weight loss journey. Not too long ago, I was topping the scales at 235 (it may have been more than that, I just stop weighing myself after it hit 235) as if not knowing my weight would change anything. Anyway, I started having serious health issues, high blood pressure,

prediabetes, high cholesterol, early-stage kidney disease, and the list goes, not to mention I was feeling miserable. Needless to say, I had to make serious adjustments. But making the adjustments during the holidays was the most challenging. My birthday, wedding anniversary, and Thanksgiving fall within the same week and depending on the year one of those milestones fall on Thanksgiving Day! Followed by Christmas Holidays and events. Double whammy! Whew!

So I got the weight off and my health begin to improve. I still had to learn to make wise healthy choices around the holidays and so can you.

First and foremost remember health is wealth. I am urging you to exercise self-care by eating healthy all year long and not just on holidays!

Tips to stay healthy during the holidays:

• Drink plenty of water, get proper rest, and exercise.

• Avoid sodas, punches, and juices (I would rather eat my calories than drink them).

• Eat slowly and savor the moment, especially in the desert.

• Eat more veggies and reduce your carb intake.

• Just say no and explain you are trying to stay healthy and avoid health issues.

• Focus on time with family and friends and not so much on the food (I know you are saying who is she kidding) but at least try.

• Use moderation—avoid seconds and thirds servings.

• Avoid processed and fast foods.

Other self-care tips:

• Go for a walk in the park.

• Pray and mediate.

• Volunteer to help others during the holidays.

• Recite positive affirmations, such as I am healthy and I will continue to be healthy.

Remember Self Care includes being healthy so that you can enjoy life with family and friends for many years to come!

Rev. Dr. Eichelberger is the author of three books and has won numerous awards for her work in television production most notably the Life Time Achievement Award signed by President Biden and Vice President Harris as well as a Humanitarian Award. She is married to the legendary Dr. Herbert Lewis Eichelberger.jennifereichelberger.com

Affirm Yourself for the

New year

W r i t t e n b y A d r i e n n e L e e L o p e s

Then one day it all clicked, and I realized that I was applying for all types of job positions, whether they met my requirements or not. Then at that moment, I decided that I would only apply to jobs that met my salary requirements And once I applied for the job, I decided to speak an affirmation of "I am hired with a job that pays me what I am worth " A simple yet effective affirmation

Some people may ask, what is an affirmation, and why are they important? Affirmations are simply, I Am statements that allow you to embody what you are speaking Affirmations are key to renewing your mind as well as putting yourself in a better mindset. With just one daily affirmation you can empower and motivate yourself to meet your goals.

Not only do I believe in affirmations but I use them in my daily life For a long time when I was unemployed, I applied for numerous jobs but could not understand why I was having a hard time finding a position that met my needs I had a master's degree with several years of experience, so I knew I was a great candidate however I could not find a job that met my salary requirements

As I began to speak the daily affirmation, I started to receive several interviews for positions that were paying the salary that I wanted and I was eventually hired for one of those jobs At that moment, it felt like God had finally heard my prayers and I understood what it really meant to speak things into existence By making the commitment to start with one affirmation I was able to accomplish my goal of getting a new job and now I apply affirmations to every area of my life

So for the new year, whatever goal you have, make an affirmation for it. If you want to make more money, simply affirm,

Adrienne Lee Lopes is a writer and author of Tales of Kitchen Witch and My Magical Awakening: A Journey in Real Black Girl Magic She also owns The Inner Eye Store, which sells candles and wellness products You can find more information about her store and books by going to theinnereyestore company site

Try speaking your affirmations first thing in the morning or even while in the shower to get yourself motivated for the day You can also make your affirmations a part of your self care routine by reciting them while you are meditating or even working out By speaking affirmations, you will have a positive mindset and watch how opportunities flow to you

"

I affirm that I am making more money in 2023." Or, for the love, you can affirm, "I am attracting moreloveinmylife."

SELF-CARE AFTER DIVORCE

Written by Bettie Jones

Recovering after divorce is very difficult Dealing with the stigma and shame can be devastating and restoring yourself in society (and the church) can be painstaking When a woman has been Mrs Somebody all her adult life, and she wakes up one day as a single woman, it is hard to adjust to this new status That makes me think of a time back when the title Ms Was introduced into the English language Its original intent was not to identify a woman by her marital status, as men were not identified that way I didn’t like the title and thought “what woman wants to be identified as Ms Somebody ” Well, now I am no longer Mrs Somebody No denying it Some women choose to retain their married name In my case, my ex asked for his name back, so I gave it back to him Now, kicking and screaming, I am Ms. Jones, here to give you some tips on how to survive and care for yourself after the big “D.”

1. First thing is to forgive. He or she may have hurt you deeply and left some emotional scars. Yes, it hurts to know that someone doesn’t love you anymore. You have to forgive him or her, and then you have to forgive yourself for not trying harder, for not loving more, for not doing more, and for all those what ifs

2 After forgiveness comes healing This healing has to take place in order for you to move on When possible, get counseling I was in counseling for a year

3 Forget about avenging your hurt The Lord will avenge your pain just wait on Him

4 Learn to love yourself again! How do you do that when all your dignity and self esteem have been stripped away?

a Get rid of everything that causes you pain If you ’ re using the same sheets, get rid of them. Burn them if you must! Change your furniture around; redecorate when possible. Not only did I change the locks, but I also changed the whole door!

b. Change your hairstyle: Cut, twist, lock, perm, or whatever Just adopt a new look

c Find a picture of yourself taken at a happier time and vow to look like that again Look in the mirror each day and tell yourself you ’ re beautiful Love what you see

d. Get dressed up and take yourself out to dinner. Enjoy your Table for one, please!”

5 Get a manicure and a pedicure Then show off your pretty feet in some strappy shoes or peep toes, or high heels

6 Everybody can’t replace their wardrobe, but you can make some changes Add a scarf or pin to your dress or suit; add some color. When you look pretty, you feel pretty, and it does wonders for your self esteem

7 Engage in activities that you enjoy Go to a play or to a concert, to the symphony, or to a museum 8. Invite a friend for lunch or dinner.

9 Avoid twosomes or couple events (they only remind you of yesterday)

10. You won’t be the same after divorce, but you will survive Press for the mark of the high calling and run the race with patience, remembering that the race is not given to the swift, nor is it given to the strong, but she or he who endures to the end will gain the prize.

Take care of yourself, your prize awaits!

Bettie Jones, MS, BA, is as contributing writer She is the author of When the Invitations Stopped a guide for women who find themselves in the throes of domestic violence She is retired, living in Atlanta, Georgia

With the holidays behind them, many people are reevaluating their lives as the New Year approaches New Year's resolutions are for those who promised to make improvements next week, next month, or when winter begins

Now's your chance to make a list of lifestyle changes you want to make, and we're here to help. Since most people don't keep their resolutions, you'll need all the aid you can get.

Here are 50 New Year's resolutions with advise If you want to improve your life, you'll find plenty of advice here

Workout

Over a third of Americans want to lose weight, exercise more, and stay healthy It's easy to start an exercise and diet regimen, but the difficulty is to find one that gives consistent results and is easy to keep to

Diet

This extends the previous resolution When we're surrounded by inexpensive junk food, eating healthy might be difficult You may adopt healthier eating habits with effort and some recommendations Learn to regulate emotional eating and check out these nutritious dishes

Procrastinate

Most people don't attain their goals because they'd rather relax and have fun Once you're used to procrastinating, you'll need to work hard to break the

behavior There are various ways to stop procrastinating, but the best advise is to develop a daily to do list

Focus

Ancient civilizations used mental training and herbal medicine to increase focus and cognitive abilities Apps and ancient meditation techniques can increase concentration and mental skills today. You can control your mood, learn faster, and solve difficulties by doing this.

Socialize

When we're in a rut, we tend to stay at home and lose out on networking and recreational possibilities Meeting new people can boost your mental health and career[1], so don't be shy For shy people, this is a good New Year's resolution Start by accepting a friend's evening invitation This helps you meet new individuals

Exercise

Some people aren't overweight and exercise a few times a week, but they sit a lot at home and work, which might affect their posture and health In that scenario, move around more during the day instead of hunching over a computer Sharing your action is more fun

Confidence

Confidence makes it simpler to be heard, ask people out, and advance at work Self confidence makes life happier overall Positive self talk, focusing on achievements, and seeing failure as an opportunity can build confidence.

50Goals toSet forthe Coming Year

W r i t t e n b y G i G i S h a b a z z

Get Rich

Even billionaires are seeking for methods to make more money, and so can we There are choices like side jobs, freelancing, and using the internet

Politeness

Civilized societies have traditionally valued manners[3]. They help you connect with others, avoid offending them, and appear trustworthy. Learn manners, deal with nasty people properly, and say no without offending others

Relax

Stress is one of the biggest killers and may destroy your relationships and health, making this a good New Year's resolution It's an inescapable side effect of our frantic modern lifestyles, but it may be managed with simple tricks[4]

Learn to Be Happier

Even folks who are healthy, wealthy, and stress free might be sad Finding delight in the little things and not letting troubles get you down requires time and patience

Gratitude increases happiness Start a gratitude notebook to focus on the positive

Sleep better

With enormous TVs, computers, smartphones, tablets, and other flashing, beeping electronics, it might be hard to sleep Science and common tricks can help you get 8 hours of sleep a night First, put away electronics an hour before bed. This will help you relax and fall asleep.

Stop smoking

Smoking is a horrible habit that many people can't stop It's unhealthy and can drain your pocketbook You'll need a lot of willpower to quit smoking

Reduce TV

The average American spends more time watching TV than cooking and sleeping[5] That time may have been spent learning, exercising, or building skills Once you reduce TV time, you'll see how long and productive a day can be

Read

Books are a terrific way to learn knowledge and train your brain You can read 20 or more books in a year if you make it a habit, pick your favorite genre, and make time.

Date

Finding the proper person to hold at night, chat to, and share our secrets with takes trial and error We must meet many possible spouses before finding one we click with These suggestions can help you ask someone out and have a great first date

Better sex

Any healthy relationship demands closeness, and sex can improve us mentally and physically[6] Practice and workout make it interesting and gratifying

Cleanup

A messy workplace or chaotic home can impair your productivity and mood, therefore it helps to eliminate the clutter, clean your property, and lead a tidier life

Style Yourself

Dressing well can help you land a job, get promoted, and attract a date Find clothes that make you feel comfortable and stand out

Spend time with important people

Insincere, dishonest, and toxic people squander too much of our time. Focusing on those we love and who love us is the best approach to be happy and fulfilled

Reduce alcohol intake

One or two servings[7] of alcohol every day is safe and healthful, although few people can follow this rule Controlling your drinking has many benefits, but it's

not easy Be patient If you usually drink two glasses of wine after work, try one for a month, then once or twice a week

Pay off debt

Debt hinders personal growth Financial freedom is rocky, but it's manageable with forethought and self control Examine these debt repayment strategies It'll feel amazing

Spend less

Once you're debt free, start saving A rainy day fund and additional money for travel, home repairs, or a new automobile are welcome Use money saving methods and apps

Learn a language

Not only can learning a new language assist improve your communication abilities, but it will also look wonderful on your CV and perhaps open up some opportunities for you There are many free resources for learning languages today

Donate and volunteer

Helping others is a nice gesture and a worthy New Year's goal, but it's also a chance to meet new people, develop new skills, and strengthen your career How to volunteer despite a busy schedule

Develop useful skills and hobbies

Sitting all day won't help Use your free time to learn new skills while having fun You'll thank yourself later Find out how to quickly learn communication skills or sports

Forgive

Times can be hard, and it may take a lot to overcome hardship, but sitting around and moping about it is just unhelpful If you quarrel and fall out over a tiny problem, you'll lose a friend or life partner and be sad and bitter. Forgiveness is a healthier method to handle previous issues[8].

Adopt an animal

Many animal enthusiasts would be terrific pet owners, but they overthink things, while others obtain a pet without comprehending the commitment Find a pet that fits your lifestyle and living conditions

Organize

Make organization a New Year's resolve if you want to spend less time aimlessly running around When you are organized, there will suddenly be more time to spare, and things will start falling into place Enjoy your newfound free time by making it a habit and using applications and tools

More travel

You'll need money, the correct gear, and time and effort to tour the world, but there are methods to do so on a budget Watch documentaries, take a staycation, or get a pen pal to get the travel bug

Cooking 101

Everyone should know how to cook. It allows you to save money, enjoy cuisine your way, and amaze dates with candlelit feasts. Nothing stands between you and a 3 course meal if you follow suggestions, maintain your kitchen clean, and avoid frequent blunders

More often visit your doctor

Staying well should be your first concern, but many individuals feel terrified of physicians and don’t attend nearly as often as they should, often waiting for their condition to dramatically worsen Even if you feel healthy, have regular checkups Remember, this involves taking care of your mental health, as well!

Reinvent Yourself

If you're never happy, it may be time to make some New Year's resolutions Reinventing yourself may offer you a whole new perspective on life and take

you in ways you may never have believed were possible

Don't be late

Punctuality is a virtue, thus this is a fantastic New Year's resolve Being on time is a sign of a true professional, dependable friend, and caring partner, so learn a few methods to stay on time

Self-reliant

Technology, a pretty decent government, and corporations giving inexpensive, ready to eat food and all manner of handy equipment have left us somewhat spoilt, and we often get well into adulthood without having what it takes to be independent and self reliant Instead of fleeing to a family member or friend when you have an issue, consider fixing it yourself

Make Your Hobby Your Job

We'd be a happier, more balanced society if we could combine enjoyment with productivity and make money doing what we love In some situations, a hobby can become a rewarding career

Move on

It may be better to have loved and lost, than to never have loved, but it still aches like crazy Self care is the first step in healing a damaged heart

Learn to Control Your Emotions

Jealousy and pride are damaging in all situations, therefore it's a smart New

Year's resolve to regulate your emotions

Gaining control over your feelings allows you to retain a cool head and think more clearly, especially amid emotionally charged conflict situations.

Be More Responsible

Growing up means learning to think before acting It is necessary to take responsibility for ones actions and avoid blaming everything on someone else, just as it is important to protect your family and assist provide for them

Learn More About Music, Art, and Culture

A well rounded education helps you connect with people from varied backgrounds Art, music, history, and culture can be easy to understand if you use websites and online classes

Reduce social media time

Some people might not spend hours in front of the TV, or playing video games, but social media has become a serious addiction among a wide spectrum of demographics It’s acceptable to stay in touch with friends and family, but if you habitually spend more than an hour every day on social media, it’s time to make a change and add this to your list of positive New Year’s resolutions

Learn How to Defend Yourself

Safeguarding yourself and your loved ones is a vital skill It’s not all about groin kicks and palm strikes, however You need to learn how to handle yourself and what kind of behavior to look out for in others

Become More Romantic

Longer, more committed partnerships frequently kill romance, but it doesn't have to A few romantic gestures here and there can keep the passion going for decades It will be fun, even if you ’ re not the romantic type

Remember dates

You don't want to forget birthdays, anniversaries, and other crucial occasions in a romantic relationship There are many of memory tricks that take very little time to master, so you’ll never forget another date again

Be More Social Socializing is beneficial You can have fun,

meet new people, and learn interesting topics while developing leadership abilities and teamwork This is a great New Year's resolve Even if you're shy or introverted, you can be an active part of a community.

Develop More Creativity

There are moments when we get intellectually exhausted and our creativity just goes out the window This is terrible if your profession or pastime requires creative thinking As with anything else, there are many tools that help you spark your imagination in a number of various ways

Artistically express yourself

While some of us are more logical, most people still have a little of a creative spark in them Creative expression relieves stress and sharpens the mind Some of these activities will also burn calories So write, craft, do DIY projects whatever makes your soul free.

Face Your Fears and Insecurities

Fear and insecurity are often the cause of various problems we want to address

You need to think of it as surviving and regulating your fear rather than defeating it, and it will enable you to shed off a lot of the insecurities that you have

Start Writing a Book/Journal

Many people have great stories to tell but lack the courage and competence to put them down Even if it is just a few odd thoughts scrawled everyday in a journal, you shouldn’t be frightened to give writing a go with a few tips and tactics

Keep your healthy habits

All beneficial improvements you make with New Year's resolutions must be permanent You will need to work on keeping with the excellent habits you have developed until they just become a natural part of who you are True self improvement requires this

In summary, you'll find advice, strategies, and tactics to help you keep your New Year's resolutions and make lasting changes Start with one, and if you feel like you ’ ve got the hang of it, take up another There’s no limit to how many great changes you can make in life, but you have to start somewhere!

THE SELF-CARE

W W W . T H E S E L F C A R E M A G A Z I N E . C O M