Tag: mental-health

Building Confidence: A Guide to Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone 


Have you ever felt stuck in a rut, unsure of how to move forward? Maybe you’ve noticed that self-doubt creeps in whenever you think about trying something new. You’re not alone. Many of us struggle with staying in our comfort zones because it feels safe, predictable, and familiar. But here’s the truth: real growth happens when we step outside that zone. Confidence isn’t always something you’re born with—it’s something you build by taking action, even when it feels uncomfortable. 

In this guide, we’ll explore how to break free from self-doubt, embrace discomfort, and build the confidence you need to achieve your goals. Let’s dive in. 



Why Staying in Your Comfort Zone Holds You Back 

Your comfort zone is like a cozy bubble. It’s filled with routines, habits, and situations that feel safe and predictable. But here’s the catch: staying in that bubble limits your perspective and keeps you from growing. Without stepping out, you’ll never gain the confidence to tackle bigger challenges or reach your goals. 

Think about it: if you avoid trying new things, you’re missing out on opportunities to learn, grow, and discover what you’re truly capable of. The first step to building confidence is recognizing that discomfort is a sign of progress, not a reason to retreat. 



How to Identify Your Comfort Zone 

To step out of your comfort zone, you first need to know where it is. Start by paying attention to the activities and situations that feel the most familiar and safe. These are your comfort zones. 

Ask yourself: 
– What routines do I follow every day? 
– What situations do I avoid because they feel intimidating? 
– What activities make me feel anxious or uncertain? 

If you notice something you consistently avoid, it’s likely outside your comfort zone. That’s a good thing! It means you’ve identified an area where you can grow. 



The Role of Mindset in Building Confidence 

Your mindset plays a huge role in how you approach challenges. A growth mindset—the belief that you can learn, improve, and achieve your goals—is essential for building confidence. On the other hand, a fixed mindset—the belief that your abilities are set in stone—can hold you back. 

Here’s the good news: you can change your mindset. Start by shifting your perspective. Instead of thinking, “I can’t do this,” try, “I can learn how to do this.” This small change can make a big difference in how you approach challenges and setbacks. 



Strategies for Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone 

Ready to take the leap? Here are some practical strategies to help you step out of your comfort zone and build confidence: 

1. Start Small 
You don’t have to jump into the deep end right away. Start with small changes to your routine. For example: 
– Eat lunch at a new place. 
– Compliment a stranger. 
– Strike up a conversation with a coworker you don’t usually talk to. 

These small steps can help you get comfortable with discomfort and build momentum for bigger challenges. 

2. Acknowledge Your Fear 
Fear is a natural part of stepping out of your comfort zone. Instead of avoiding it, acknowledge it. Recognize that fear is often a sign that you’re about to do something meaningful. 

3. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity 
Failure is not the opposite of success—it’s part of the journey. Every time you fail, you learn something new. Celebrate your failures as opportunities to grow and improve. 

4. Find a Role Model 
Look for someone who’s already doing what you want to do. Study their journey, learn from their experiences, and use their story as inspiration. 

5. Build a Support System 
Surround yourself with people who encourage and support your growth. A strong support system can help you stay motivated and accountable. 

6. Take Action 
Learning is important, but action is what leads to progress. Take what you’ve learned and put it into practice. Whether it’s trying a new recipe, starting a podcast, or learning a new skill, take actionable steps toward your goals. 


7. Explore New Places 
Go somewhere you’ve never been before. It doesn’t have to be far—just a new city, restaurant, or event. Experiencing new environments can give you fresh perspectives and help you grow. 



How to Stay Consistent 

Consistency is key to building confidence. Here’s how to stay on track: 

1. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate every step forward, no matter how small. 
2. Journal Your Progress: Write down your achievements and reflect on how far you’ve come. 
3. Stay Curious: Keep learning and exploring new things to maintain momentum. 
4. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People: Spend time with others who are also pushing their comfort zones. 



Final Thoughts: Take the First Step 

Stepping out of your comfort zone isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Every time you take a risk, you’re building confidence, gaining new perspectives, and moving closer to your goals. Remember, growth happens outside your comfort zone. 

So, what’s one thing you’ve been wanting to do but haven’t yet? Take that first step today. Whether it’s trying a new activity, starting a conversation, or exploring a new place, embrace the discomfort and see where it takes you. 

You’ve got this. The journey to confidence starts with a single step—take it now.

That’s all for now 🙋

-Caelin Plants

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Practical Guide to Achieving Your Goals

Have you ever felt like you’re not good enough, even when you’re doing your best? This feeling, often called imposter syndrome, can be a significant barrier to achieving your goals. It’s easy to get discouraged and feel like you’re not making progress. But remember, everyone starts somewhere, and the journey is just as important as the destination. 💕

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome can make you doubt your abilities and feel like a fraud, even when you’re competent. It’s a common experience, especially when you’re trying to grow and push your boundaries. But overcoming this self-doubt is crucial for personal growth and achieving your goals. 🎯

Recognizing the Problem

1. Self-Doubt: Feeling like you’re not good enough or that others will discover you’re a fraud.
2. Perfectionism: Believing that anything less than perfect is a failure.
3. Comparisons: Constantly comparing yourself to others and feeling inadequate.

Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

1. Set Clear Goals

Being specific about what you want to achieve is the first step. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes them less overwhelming and more achievable.

2. Take Action

The best way to combat self-doubt is to take action. Start with small steps and gradually build momentum. Remember, the hardest part is often just starting.

3. Embrace Mistakes

Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. They provide valuable lessons and help you grow. Don’t be afraid to make them; instead, see them as opportunities to learn.

4. Dedicate Focused Time

Set aside distraction-free time to work on your goals. Use a timer to maintain focus, and avoid multitasking. This helps you concentrate and make meaningful progress.

5. Limit Your Projects

Avoid overwhelming yourself with too many goals at once. Focus on three or four significant projects, and give them your full attention. Once you achieve these, you can add more.

6. Celebrate Progress

Acknowledge the progress you make along the way. Goals are not just about the end result; they are about the journey and the effort you put in.

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

1. Recognize Your Achievements

Take time to reflect on what you’ve accomplished. This helps build confidence and reinforces your ability to succeed.

2. Practice Self-Compassion

Be kind to yourself. Understand that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s okay to not be perfect.

3. Surround Yourself with Positivity

Engage with people who support and encourage you. Positive influences can boost your confidence and help you stay motivated.

Maintaining a Healthy Mindset

1. Focus on Personal Growth

Engage in activities that promote personal growth, such as meditation, journaling, and reading. These practices can help you connect with yourself and foster a positive mindset.

2. Stay Active

Physical activity is not only good for your body but also for your mind. It can reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

3. Foster Connections

Build and maintain strong relationships with loved ones. A supportive network can provide encouragement and help you stay grounded.

Conclusion

Overcoming imposter syndrome and achieving your goals is a journey that requires patience and persistence. By setting clear goals, taking action, and embracing mistakes, you can build confidence and grow as a person. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.

Start today by setting one small goal and taking the first step towards achieving it. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and watch as your confidence grows. You have the power to overcome self-doubt and achieve your dreams.

Thank you so much for reading, I hope this helps you to reach your goals!

Caelin Plants 💜

Embracing Mindfulness: An Introduction to Meditation

Have you ever felt the weight of self-doubt holding you back? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with the fear of not doing things “right,” especially when it comes to new practices like meditation. 🤔 I remember my first attempt at meditating; I was filled with uncertainty and nervousness. I questioned whether I was doing it correctly and worried about feeling bored or missing the point entirely. But through this journey, I’ve discovered that meditation is not about perfection—it’s about finding what works for you. 🌟

Overcoming Self-Doubt with Meditation 🧘‍♀️

Identifying the Problem

Self-doubt can be a significant barrier to personal growth. It often manifests as anxiety, a scattered mind, or an overwhelming sense of being unable to focus. These feelings can prevent you from fully engaging in activities that promote well-being, like meditation.

Finding the Solution

Meditation has been a transformative tool in overcoming these challenges. Here are some strategies that have helped me, and they might just work for you too:

1. Start Small: Begin with just 5 to 10 minutes a day. This manageable time frame makes it easier to incorporate meditation into your routine without feeling overwhelmed.

2. Use Guided Meditations: Apps like Headspace offer guided sessions that can help you navigate the initial discomfort and uncertainty. These sessions provide structure and support, making it easier to stay focused.

3. Embrace Personalization: Remember, there’s no “right” way to meditate. It’s a personal practice that should feel good for you. Experiment with different techniques until you find what resonates.

4. Practice Patience: Be gentle with yourself. Meditation is a journey, not a destination. Allow yourself the grace to learn and grow at your own pace.

5. Connect Mind and Body: Focus on the connection between your mind and body. This awareness can help you function better throughout the day, reducing anxiety and improving concentration.

The Benefits of Meditation 🌞

Through consistent practice, I’ve experienced numerous benefits that have enhanced my daily life:

– Reduced Anxiety: Meditation has helped me manage anxiety by allowing me to acknowledge my thoughts without judgment. This acceptance makes it easier to let go of negative thoughts and move forward.

– Improved Focus: By taking a few moments to breathe deeply and connect with my surroundings, I’ve found it easier to concentrate on tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

– Enhanced Mindfulness: Meditation has taught me to be present in the moment, whether I’m enjoying a meal, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking a walk. This mindfulness has brought a sense of peace and serenity to my life.

Integrating Mindfulness into Daily Life

Mindfulness extends beyond meditation. It’s about being fully present and aware of the current moment without self-judgment. Here are some ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:

1. Observe Your Surroundings: Take a moment to notice the sounds, sights, and sensations around you. This practice can ground you in the present and reduce stress.

2. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Instead of resisting your emotions, allow yourself to experience them. Recognize when you’re feeling tense or anxious, and take steps to relax.

3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Accept your thoughts and feelings as they are, without labeling them as good or bad. This self-compassion can lead to greater peace and self-acceptance.

4. Focus on the Present: When your mind starts to wander, gently bring your focus back to the task at hand. This practice can help you stay engaged and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

Conclusion

Meditation and mindfulness have become integral parts of my life, helping me overcome self-doubt and fostering a deeper connection with myself and those around me. If you’re looking to build confidence, improve your mental health, and enhance your overall well-being, I encourage you to give these strategies a try.

Start small, be patient, and remember that there’s no right or wrong way to meditate. Embrace the journey, and you’ll likely find that meditation becomes one of your favorite parts of the day, bringing you immense peace and joy.

Take the first step today, and see how meditation can transform your life.

As always thank you for reading, and I hope this gives you the confidence to begin a meditation and mindfulness practice of your own.

Caelin Plants 💚

Overcoming Self-Doubt: Strategies for Building Confidence

Self doubt is such a common struggle, we have all felt the pressure of doubt creep up in life. While we may experience self doubt or lack of confidence from time to time, it can be problematic when it is consistent. A lot of our doubts or negative self image can be connected to our mental health, perfectionism, overthinking, and past experiences. Self doubt can make us feel less motivated, more stressed, increase our tendency to procrastinate, and leave us feeling overwhelmed.

Here are seven key Strategies to help you boost your confidence and overcome the self doubt:

1.) Positive Self-Talk

When you notice yourself having a negative thought, don’t beat yourself up over it. Instead of getting upset at the thought or trying to ignore it, acknowledge the thought and then intentionally think an encouraging affirmation about yourself. For example, if you are learning a new skill and think “I am bad at this.” Acknowledge that thought, and then think to yourself “I am new at this, and I will get better over time with practice.”

This method with help you to challenge each negative thought with a positive one, and also allow you the opportunity to stop trying to force the negative thoughts away.

2.) Goal Setting

Setting and reaching small goals is a great way to boost self confidence. The best way to do this is by listing out 3 to 5 realistic and small goals that can be achieved in a relatively small time frame. Make sure these goals are well within your current abilities at the start. Once you reach these goals celebrate your achievement, and set the next small goal forward. These micro-wins will add up and build your self esteem and confidence over time. This is also a great way to gain motivation!

3.) Get Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Is there something small you have always wanted to try? Maybe painting, or crochet? Maybe a short run or light weightlifting? Trying new activities or putting yourself in new situations is a great way to build your confidence in your abilities. Think of one new thing outside of your normal routine or comfort zone to try once a month or even once every other week. This will broaden your perception of what you can do and help you to make new connections resulting in a better self image.

4.) Identify the Strengths You Have

List out all of the positive qualities of your personality and any good skills you may have. Focus on highlighting the things about yourself that make you proud to be you. Once you have your list make sure to celebrate those things about yourself and take a moment to be grateful. You can then use that list to figure out how you can use your strengths to your advantage. Build on your strengths and then your list of positive qualities will continue to grow!

5.) Avoid Comparisons

Comparison is the thief of joy as they say – so try hard not to do it. It is totally okay if you use the achievements of other people as inspiration, motivation, or even as guidelines to follow. Comparisons are much different, you will never be them and they will never be you, everyone is unique. I know this sounds very cliche but trust me its is true. You have your own abilities and talents, so if you constantly compare to other people, you will never measure up because you are not using the correct mark to measure against. If you must measure, then measure against who and where you were last month, year, or decade.

6.) Physical Well – Being

Regular exercise is great for a lot of reasons, it can help with confidence because it is a mood booster. Exercise or most movement in general raises your self perception and increases a positive mental attitude. When you move you start to feel good and when you feel good physically, you will start to feel good mentally as well. It is important to know that the goal here is not for aesthetics, the goal is to improve our physical and mental well being.

7.) Have a Supportive Network

Spend your time with people who support, uplift, and encourage you. We pick up on the language and disposition of other people. For this reason it is vital that we spend the majority of our time around people that have our backs. Having a strong and present network of close friends and family that support your goals will make it that much easier to feel confident in your endeavors.

That’s all for now, Thank you!

Caelin 💜

How to get a Great Night’s Sleep

Almost 30% of adults struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep. An estimated 1 in 3 adults do not get enough quality sleep, that is a huge amount of people. We all know that sleep is important, and that we feel better when we get good sleep. Why is sleep so important?

Sleep helps us maintain not only our brain and heart health, but also helps us to prevent chronic health conditions later on in life. Sleep also helps reduce stress and anxiety, improves our mood, helps us to retain information long term, and helps us learn effectively by creating new pathways in our brains. This means we can receive and retain more information day to day. Sleep amplifies creativity as well by making us more energetic and focused!

If you have ever experienced the sleep struggle then you are likely familiar with Insomnia. The sleeping disorder is very common (about 1 in 3 adults experience symptoms). About 10% of adults have severe enough sleep disruptions to classify it as a true disorder. Insomnia can make it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get good quality sleep. Lack of necessary sleep can make us feel tired or cranky throughout the day, it also drastically impacts our ability to focus and retain information.

I struggled with Insomnia for many years, it was almost impossible for me to get more than three hours of sleep at a time, and even then it was poor quality. I never truly felt well rested. I started implementing new “sleep hygiene” habits and it has made a world of difference. I sleep so well now, usually between 8.5 and 9.5 hours each night. I do not tell you this to brag, but to share what has worked for me.

Proof I sleep good now ⬆

What causes sleep disruptions?

While many things can cause sleep disruptions, there are a few well known offenders such as stress, travel, work schedule, and lifestyle choices. I will be focusing on lifestyle choices sense they are most easily changed and within our control (for the most part).

Regular Sleep Schedule

Going to bed at all hours of the night harms your natural Circadian rhythm which regulates your twenty-four hour sleep/wake cycle. Winding down and going to bed at around the same time every night triggers your brain to make you feel sleepy at that time. Being consistent about your bed time is one of the best ways to ensure you will be able to fall asleep when you want to. The more you do this, the better it works. I now have a “go to bed” alarm, when I hear it I know that it is time to settle down for the night. This way I have a reminder every night to stop my work for the evening and get some rest!

Caffeine

I am not a coffee drinker, but I LOVE tea. I drink tea every day, and have for years, it is my favorite, but I never drink caffeinated tea after a certain time of evening. It is recommended to stop drinking caffeine about six hours before you want to sleep. For me this means no caffeinated tea after about 3PM, which I think is totally reasonable. Caffeine has a half life of about 6 to 8 hours, which means if you are drinking it late in the day it is still pumping through your system and keeping you wired while you are wanting to wind down.

Exercise

Getting regular exercise throughout your week will help improve your sleep. Aiming for three to five times per week is a great goal, and it doesn’t have to be perfect, just do what you can. The key here is to make sure you are finished with your exercise at least two hours before bed. If you exercise too close to bed time then you run the risk of still being amped up from your workout. All of the endorphins and adrenaline will still be fresh in your body and will not be helpful when trying to doze off.

Dinner

The same rule applies here, try not to have a big meal about two hours before your ideal bed time. If you eat a very large meal right before bed it is unlikely you will get quality sleep. Your body is having to work to digest and metabolize your meal and all of that work does not give your body the change to really calm down for ideal sleeping conditions. Eating at least two hours before bed allows your body to digest and settle before bed, meaning you won’t feel so lethargic and uncomfortable while trying to sleep.

Technology

We are all guilty of this, however we can get better! Try to not use your tech in bed (I know, that sounds rough). It is difficult, especially if you are used to looking at your phone or sleeping with the TV on, but here me out. Sleep experts recommend no technology in bed, and that bed should be a place for sleep and relaxation. Technology is meant to keep us alert, attentive, and engaged, none of which is conducive to a good nights sleep. Aim for no tech in bed thirty minutes before your ideal sleep time. This way you have a chance to disengage, and relax without all of that enticing colorful media shining into your eyeballs. Instead, try to journal, read a book, or do a crossword to relax before bed!

Naps

Taking naps during the day negatively impacts your sleep cycle, especially if you already struggle with sleeping. Do your best to hold off until bed time and then you will be tired at the correct time instead of the middle of the day. Along with this, if you regularly sleep on the couch, break that habit. Having a designated sleep space will help signal to your brain that that place is where sleep happens. The goal is for your bed to be THE PLACE for sleep, and for everywhere else to be for waking hours.

Ambiance

Your bedroom should be dark, quiet, and none stimulating. If you need a small light then you are not alone, just make sure it is small and not bright. I have a small salt lamp that puts off a dim red glow, it is not distracting, and it is not lighting up my whole room. Outside of a small night light like my salt lamp, I have no other lights in the room. I also have some lavender misting spray that i put on my pillow that helps me to feel calm and relaxed. I have invested in a cheap but effective eye mask that I use from time to time, it was especially helpful in the beginning when I would have trouble keeping my eyes closed. The last thing I do to set the ambiance is use my HeadSpace App. I go to the Sleep tab and listen to the “sleeping wind down” video they have, and it puts me down in five minutes or less. It is not loud or distracting, it is just the opposite.

Checking the Time

The first few weeks when you are trying to implement these changes, you will likely still have a bit of trouble falling asleep. If and when this happens, do not roll over and check the time. This will only lead to stress and stimulation. When you check the time every few minutes it will lead to overthinking, and stress about how awake you still are. The goal is to just lay there without looking at anything until you finally fall asleep. The impulse to check the time is coming from wanting to fight your sleep more. Don’t fall for it! If you need to then put your phone on the other side of your room so you can’t check it.

All of these points are free and can applied immediately, so if you are struggling with sleep try them out and let me know if they help. I really hope that they do, we all deserve a good night of sleep.

That’s all for now, thank you so much!

Caelin ❤

Growth Mindset VS Fixed Mindset

What is mindset? 🧠

Mindset is a set of beliefs and assumptions about yourself, your life, and the world around you.

Basically mindset is how you perceive everything that is going on around you in your life. Most importantly mindsets can be changed, this is good news because our mindset influences everything you do. That includes your habits, your reactions, and your success with goals.

Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck identified two different types of mindsets, a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. A fixed mindset is the belief that your abilities and fixed traits cannot be changed or altered. A growth mindset is the belief that your talents and abilities can change and develop over time through effort and persistence.

If you are looking to achieve a growth mindset then hopefully that means you believe you can change your mindset and habits (which is true!), so let’s talk about how we can do that.

Building a growth mindset does not happen over night, it takes time and commitment to change the way we think. It will not be linear growth, so be patient with yourself and remember you can always change your habits, and the way we think is a habit!

8 tips on how to achieve a growth mindset: ⬇⬇⬇👀

1.) Start viewing challenges as opportunities to grow 📈

Challenges are always a great time to learn and grow from what you are going through. A new challenge can be scary, but after you face that fear it passes rather quickly. The only way past is through, and on the other side of it is everything you want. It won’t be as scary after you do it a few times.

2.) If you are not failing you are not learning 🚦

Failure is part of learning, it just has to happen in order for you to grow. I know that is frustrating (especially for people with perfectionist tendencies). There is this terrible stigma around failure, but that is the cost of entry. Failure is learning and learning is growth, so if you want to grow you must make friends with failure. Change the way you think about failure, and it’s almost guaranteed that you will reach your goal.

3.) Ask the right people the right questions 🙋‍♀️

Find someone that has what you want and ask for criticism. This does not have to be somebody that you know, it can be a mentor, coach, community leader, or just someone doing what you want to be doing. This person needs to actively be going in the direction you want to go, or achieving the things you want for yourself. Instead of looking at that person and feeling jealous, you need to ask questions. Get comfortable recognizing the areas you are struggling in and have people tell you how they got past those struggles. Feedback is so valuable if it is coming from a good source, you just have to be willing to take it and apply it.

4.) Put in the effort 💪

Instead of focusing on the negative thoughts, just get in the reps! If you are thinking to yourself how poorly things are going, and you are complaining and talking about how bad you are doing then this is for you. When those thoughts pop up, acknowledge them, and then put in the work. Bad at writing? Find some free writing prompts and practice. Bad at cooking? Hop on Pinterest and find some easy recipes to start with. Bad at Sewing? Joanns has free patterns and online classes you can take to get better! See where I am going with this? You may not be able to do it yet, you just gotta get those reps in.

5.) Growth is a process ✨

Growth and learning are not a destination, they are a process. You will never be done learning or growing, there is no finish line to get to. Having a growth mindset is a forever journey, that is the whole point. You can always get better, or improve a skill, learn more, or grow as a person. This can be fun if you have a growth mindset because the game never ends. Instead of looking at this process and thinking “I’m not there yet”, realize that there is nowhere to be. The only goal is forward progress, always and forever forward progress.

6.) Write down your goals 🖊

Research has show that writing down your goals increases the probability that you will reach them by up to 42%. The link to the study can be found Here. What I like to do is write down the main goal and then break it up into mini goals. This helps to make each goal more digestible and more easily achieved. So your larger goal is not so daunting and you can work towards it in steps. I would not suggest having more than three large goals at once, otherwise it may still become overwhelming. Once you see the progress happening with your mini goals you will be much more likely to continue on toward your main goal.

7.) Put yourself around people that emulate your goals 🤝

Your habits, thoughts, and actions are massively influenced by the people you spend the most time with. Putting yourself around people who have similar goals or are on a similar path will increase your chances of reaching your goals. If one of your goals is to read more, then join a book club. If one of your goals is to run a marathon, join a community running group. This will help you to pick up tips, ideas, and information that will benefit you and expedite your progress. People that share your goals will share insight and help you to develop the mindset it will take to achieve what you are setting out to do.

8.) Become more self aware 🤩

Self awareness is one of the largest obstacles on the path to a growth mindset. You have to know where you are in order to know where you should go. The best way I have found to really understand where I am in a process is to crack open a journal and ask myself some questions! Take about twenty minutes and get very honest with yourself about where you are right now. Are you open to new experiences, people, and habits? Are you closed off to new ideas or challenges? Are you confident in your ability to learn new skills, or does that make you feel anxious? These are the types of things you need to ask yourself. What we are looking for by doing this exercise is a side by side comparison of where you are right now, and where you would like to be. Set growth goals and also set a time frame for yourself. This will assist you to be more open with yourself about what exactly needs to change and what the next step should be.

Book recommendation:

The PMA Effect by John Joseph is one of my all time favorites. It is packed full of great information, exercises, and actionable steps to be able to get a head start of all of this. I read this book every year and I always take something new away from it. My personal copy is filled with sticky notes marking my favorite ideas, thoughts, and exercises. I would highly recommend getting a physical copy if you are a note taker like me!

That’s all for now, thank you so much for being here. I truly hope this was helpful to you, and I wish you luck on your journey.

Caelin 🤙

How to Achieve Personal Development

Personal development is a very broad term that consists of many actions and habits. Under the personal development umbrella you can find many topics ranging from language learning and reading, all the way to some major changes like sobriety and dietary shifts. There are six pillars that that we can break all of these topics up into so that your personal development journey can begin today!

First let’s define personal development, since this is such a broad term. The description that I have seen the most is this, personal development is: a process of activities that help people improve their skills, potential, and quality of life.

Where do we start? Take a look at the six pillars that personal development can be categorized by.

1.) Physical 💪

Physical development encompasses exercise, nutrition, sleep, and hygiene. To obtain growth in this pillar you can start by stretching in the morning and doing a short and light workout. Meal plan and work to incorporate better eating habits that make your body feel nourished and energized. Ensure that you are getting a good amount of quality sleep, this is different for everyone. Take the time to care for your body, this can look like going to regular doctor and dental appointments, getting a hair trim, and having a morning and evening routine for personal hygiene.

2.) Mental 🧠

Mental development is about improving your mindset and cognitive function. You can start by working on becoming self aware and getting familiar with how your actions affect your life. Some good habits to improve this pillar could be furthering your education, for example taking a free library class online, reading books, doing puzzles, trying meditation, and generally challenging your brain. Another great place to start is by setting up a few appointments with a therapist so that they can help you to sort out the more complicated road blocks you may encounter.

I really recommend books, books, and more books! 📖📚

3.) Emotional 💕

Emotional development includes learning to understand, express, process, and manage emotions. Emotions are often complex, and becoming familiar with how to handle your own emotions can be very freeing. You can start this process by becoming more aware of why you are having these emotions. Work on responding instead of reacting, and becoming more empathetic and understanding towards others. Mindfulness is a wonderful way to achieve these things. The practice of mindfulness will help you to improve self awareness, self regulation, empathy, and gain freedom from negative thoughts and judgments.

4.) Social 🙋‍♀️

Social development means gaining skills to interact with others in a healthier way. Self confidence plays a big role in this pillar. Being able to perceive and respect others will help you with social skills. Comfort in self expression and communication are great places to start. Being a good communicator and listener is beneficial in social setting as it will make you and your peers feel engaged and comfortable. Communication skills can include things like body language, speaking clearly, problem solving, avoiding interrupting, and awareness of social cues.

5.) Spiritual 🧘‍♀️

Spiritual development can be improved by connecting better to the world around us and also to our inner selves. I know this can sound kind of “woo woo” – just hear me out! You don’t have to do anything you are uncomfortable with, just do what works for you. A good place to start could be meditating a couple times per week, starting a yoga practice, being more present, and practicing gratitude. You can also try spending some time in nature or getting involved with your community. Any or all of these activities are likely to make you feel more connected and purposeful, which is the goal of spiritual growth.

6.) Financial ✅

First let me say that I am totally empathetic to the fact that everyone is in a different place financially. We all have different lives and different circumstances. That being said, the goal we are setting here is to better our financial management and make sure needs are met. Starting small could look like assessing your current financial situation and tracking your finances closer. after that you can start making a financial plan, budgeting, putting money into an emergency fund, saving, or paying off debt. You can start where ever you feel comfortable and where your personal situation allows.

I would like to highlight that in order for growth to happen we need to have an open and willing state of mind. You have to be okay with changing your habits, skills, time allocation, and mindset. If you are willing to do that then you can do just about anything!

Here is a quote I like from Brazilian lyricist and novelist Paulo Coelho –

” One day or day one”

Thank you for reading, have a loving and peaceful week!

Caelin 🤙

Mood-Boosting Foods to Add to Your Grocery List

One of the simplest ways to improve your mood is to prioritize a healthy diet. A healthy diet nurtures a healthy gut, this is important because of your gut microbes. The microbes in your gut produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine when you eat nutritious foods. Neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine are best know for regulating and boosting not only our mood, but also our concentration. Nutrition psychiatry studies have found direct correlations between our diets and mental health.

Serotonin is not only responsible for making us feel happy and calm. This neurotransmitter is essential for our central nervous system development and function. It assists with our hormonal, autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine functions. So where is most of the serotonin produced in the body? You may be surprised to find out that only about ten percent is produced in your brain, and the other ninety percent is produced in your gut.

The science behind it:

Foods containing mood boosting nutrients like Zinc, Folate, Magnesium, Potassium, Vitamin C, Fiber, Iron, B Vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids help us to have energy, clarity, and reduce anxiety and depression throughout the day.

In contrast, foods high in fat, sugar, and salt (processed foods) are associated with increased anxiety and depression. These types of food can also make us feel lethargic and like we have brain fog.

Let’s get to the good stuff! Here are seven foods that will help boost your gut health and your mood –

1.) Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains amino acids and weaker stimulants that can help improve our mood. These components of dark chocolate are known to produce both serotonin and dopamine, this helps us feel happier and can act as a defense against feelings of depression. Dark chocolate also has a high amount of Iron and flavonoids, making it great for decreasing inflammation and promoting healthy red blood cells.

2.) Blueberries

Blueberries are high in fiber, vitamin C, K, manganese, and potassium, making them great for lowering blood pressure, preventing heart disease,improving memory, and aiding in exercise recovery. Berries are rich in antioxidants, which also may help reduce depression symptoms. A diet high in fruit and vegetable intake is known to improve mental health. Blueberries in particular are being studied more for there potential ability to protect against cognitive decline that happens as we age.

3.) Avocado

Avocados contain Choline, a nutrient that your brain and nervous system use to regulate memory, mood, and muscle control. The mono-saturated fat found in avocados not only helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, but also has been found to help reduce anxiety specifically in women. Avocados are also high in B vitamins which help your body to make energy and lower stress levels.

4.) Spinach

Spinach is a significant source of vitamins K, A, and C, which promote healthy blood, normal vision, immune health, and muscle growth and recovery. It is also an excellent source of Folate as well. Spinach also contains high levels of Iron, Potassium, and Magnesium, we really should all be eating way more spinach!

5.) Green Tea

The amino acid Theanine found in green tea leaves helps to calm the mind and keep stress levels down. Theanine has also been found to reduce overall anxiety. Green tea is also high in antioxidants which may help to prevent and repair cellular damage. It may also help to reduce inflammation, decrease cognitive decline, and even protect against cancer and heart disease.

6.) Bananas

Bananas are especially rich in vitamin B6m which your body needs to create serotonin. One medium banana contains about 0.4 mg of vitamin B6 (about 25% of the daily recommended intake). Bananas are also a good source of Potassium, Magnesium, and fiber making them beneficial for digestion, and heart health. They are a good source of energy for the body, promote muscle function, and also contain antioxidants.

7.) Mushrooms

Mushrooms contain a lot of vitamin D, which has been shown to have impressive antidepressant qualities. Mushrooms are also one of the best sources of Selenium, a mineral that helps your body make antioxidants that can reduce cell damage. They also contain vitamins B2, B3, B5, and B9 (also known as Folate). B vitamins are essential for cell growth and formation, making mushrooms a very healthy food option!

Some thoughts on nutrition –

No one food is going to be a magical cure all, however making healthy dietary decisions daily will provide positive benefits for your physical and mental health. It is important to keep in mind that a healthy diet paired with exercise is the best way to reduce our risk of chronic diseases. Worldwide the most common noncommunicable diseases in order are cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes related diseases. A healthy diet and regular exercise is the best way to prevent all of these conditions.

Thank you so much for reading, and I wish you nothing but health and happiness.

Pursuit, Plants, Serenity

Top 5 Journal Prompts I Use

Writing in a journal everyday may sounds overwhelming, it did to me when I first started incorporating it into my daily routine. It does not have to be a perfect masterpiece, you are not writing the next New York Times best seller. The key to starting a daily journal is to just write something, anything, just brain dump into your journal. Seriously, that is what I did (and still do) every morning, and sometimes before bed as well. Take three or five minutes and just write down whatever is on your mind. This will have a couple of benefits for you. One, it will allow you to get those thoughts out of your brain so you do not feel like your mind is racing. Two, it will help you to organize you thoughts and let you have a clear vision for the day ahead.

Why I started writing in a journal

I first started writing in a journal after listening to some great videos about having a clear mind. My thoughts were always racing, to the point where I could not keep anything in or out of my brain for very long. I was chasing thoughts around all day long trying to remember this or make sure I told so and so that. Then when I tried to sleep at night it was the same thing. My brain trying to make a to-do list, and thinking about all the things I did not get done that day, and everything I had to get done the next day. It sounds exhausting, and it was. Finally, I decides to take this mans advice and just start writing things down.

What I started to write

I did not just write down your average to-do list or schedule for the day. I wrote down thoughts that I just wanted out of my brain. Things I knew I was not going to forget, but just could not stop thinking about. For example “my dogs nails are too long, I can hear them clacking on the tile and he has a grooming appointment on Saturday, but I just can not stop thinking about it”. This is actually a sentence I wrote in my journal so that I could stop that constant thought of my dogs nails needing trimmed. It really helps to just write it down. When you write these things down, it gives your brain a sense of being heard. You know it will be taken care of and that you can stop reminding yourself about it every hour.

How this has helped me

This has given me so much peace internally and externally as well. I am no longer speed walking around the house with a toothbrush in one hand and a TV remote in the other, wondering why I am holding these things when I am trying to start a load of laundry. I can go through my daily routines and check things off my list, or actually sit down and relax. I think of my journal as my second brain, once it is in the journal I do not need to think about it anymore. This also impacts the people around me, especially those that I share a home with. When I get anxious and overwhelmed, I give off that energy to others as well. Now, more often than not, I am relaxed and calm in my home. I can share that feeling with my loved ones, and give them a feeling of peace as well.

Do not have expectations

There is no wrong way to journal, so don’t go into this putting unnecessary pressure on yourself. Maybe you write one sentence, maybe you write two pages, both are correct and perfect. The goal here is to make you feel better, as long as that happens, you are doing it right. Please try to avoid comparing your journal practice to how other people journal, or your perception of how other people journal. It does not need to make sense to anyone else, or be poetic, or aesthetically pleasing. Make it sloppy and illegible, use a pen and then a pencil, it truly does not matter.

My current journal routine

As stated before I do write every morning to brain dump before I start my day. I have added some other types of journal writing to my routine in the last year or so. I now look for good prompts that are applicable to my current situation. For instance, since it is the first week of the year I have done a few prompts on year planning, goal setting, and yearly review. This helps figure out where I am at with my goals, how I want my year to look, and how I can go about getting there. I would highly recommend searching for prompts that are in line with whatever you have going on in your life. You can search for prompts about parenting, moving, recovery, just about anything you can think of there is a journal prompt for. Do them as often as you need, or schedule them, completely up to you. Again, this is all about making your life more peaceful.

Top 5 prompts I would recommend

Okay, here we go, here are my top 5 journal prompts that have given me the most insight.

  • What does your ideal day look like?

This one needs to be very specific, start from the time you wake up and end with right before you go to sleep. What do you do all day? Who are you with? Where do you go? This will help give you an idea of what changes you can make to start having days that feel better to you.

  • What will make the boat go faster?

For this one imagine that you are in a boat trying to get to your goal. The goal could be anything, small or big. For example, you are trying to leave the house to go to a dinner party and then the dog gets sick on the carpet. Now you need to ask “What will make the boat go faster?” or in this case “How can I efficiently take care of this so my evening can get back on track?” You can either get very mad, yell at your dog, rush around the house to grab cleaning supplies, snap at your spouse, and then have a tense and silent car ride to the party. Option two, you can calmly ask your spouse for help to get the dog outside so that you can grab the cleaning supplies, then work together to clean the mess and have a nice conversation about what a good team you are on the way to the party. Which one do you think will make the boat go faster?

  • What would the ideal me do?

If you are struggling with how to handle a situation this is a great one! Can’t decide how to respond to a message? Trying to write out a healthy meal plan? Deciding whether to binge Netflix or go for a walk? Ask yourself, what would the ideal you do, whatever that version of you looks like in your head. This can also be a great prompt for life planning, what does your ideal you look like in ten years?

  • Fears, fixes, and the outcome I would bet on

This one is as easy as it sounds. Whatever problem you are dealing with, write down what scares you about it, what the possible fixes could be, and what you think the most probable outcome will be. Emphasis on “most probable”, this will help make that big mountain in your head turn into a mole hill.

  • Gratitude list

Last and absolutely not least is a gratitude list. This always feels silly and always turns my sour moods right around. If you are in a funk, writing down the things in life you are grateful for will make you feel better almost one hundred percent of the time. It can be anything, your dog, your car, your job, or a friend. Being grateful is a big step to having peace in your life.

Conclusion

Writing everyday has really changed my life for the better. I did not think it was going to have the profound impact that it has. My entries have gotten more intentional and thought out over time, but to start they were just ramblings. That is totally okay, just let the words come and don’t overthink it. If you need inspiration look for a prompt, but you likely won’t need one most days. I really hope that you give it a try, and if you do I hope it helps to clear your mind.

Thank you for reading, and I truly hope you got some use out of my ideas and experiences.

Pursuit, Plants, Serenity