life Archives - Serendipity Mommy

Dissolving the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Lifestyle

October 29, 2020 by Mandy

Many parents are under enormous amounts of stress. With Covid-19 still lurking, they now find themselves living paycheck to paycheck. This may be due to a loss of income through no fault of their own or, possibly, because of poor spending habits. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated problem affecting only a small percentage of the workforce. Fortunately, there are ways to improve your current situation and achieve a sound financial future.

Immediate Help

If time is of the essence, regarding finances, there are ways to secure additional funds quickly to get you over your immediate hurdle. Unlike traditional banks, some lenders do not require an excellent credit score to grant approval for a small loan. Conduct a search online to see if you qualify. If you are unable to secure funds through any lender, a family member may be in a position to offer a loan to bring your bills current.

Advancing Your Career

If you don’t make enough money to cover regular expenses, advancing your career makes sense. Higher education will allow you to afford life’s essentials and have money left over to start enjoying life. Maybe your interest lies in graphic design. Enrolling in a reputable school will teach you how to become a graphic designer. While attending school you can look into companies and their requirements for employment.

Creating a Household Budget

Proper money management leads to financial wealth. Creating a household budget is a step in the right direction. It will teach you about your areas of weakness and effective ways to save, spend, and track your finances. Write down everything you owe out and to whom. This will open your eyes as to where your money goes and allow you to find effective ways to reduce your debt and put money away for setting goals.

Control Spending

In the digital world, it’s easy to spend money that you don’t have. You pull out a credit card and use it to pay for basically everything. A better approach is to start using cash instead. Cash is something you can hold and view. It will give you a real sense of how much things cost. As a result, you’ll think about every purchase you intend to make.

Reducing Household Expenses

It takes a lot of money to continue to maintain your home every month. There’s the mortgage, taxes, utilities, water, and cable. In addition, you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, car insurance, and food and essentials. Finding ways to reduce your monthly expenses will put money back in your pocket that you can use to pay down debt. Bundling services like cell, television and insurance are a few examples of savings you can enjoy to the tune of 20 percent or more. Replacing standard light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs and running the washer, dryer, and dishwasher during non-peak hours will also provide additional savings.

Stop Using Credit Cards

Credit card debt can cause you to be cash poor. Put your credit cards in a drawer and start relying solely on your cash. Initially, you may find it difficult. However, after a few months, you’ll find that you no longer need them. In the meantime, you can start to pay off your debt. Some people use the method of starting with the card that has the highest balance or the highest interest rate. Others use the one with the lowest amount owed.

Have a Night Out Once a Month

In order to stay the course and end the paycheck-to-paycheck lifestyle, you need to feel that you can still enjoy life. Mark a date once each month when you have an evening out. For the rest of the month, you buckle down and avoid eating out or purchasing things you want versus the things you need.

Living paycheck-to-paycheck causes stress and anxiety. Thankfully, with a few changes, you can dissolve this way of life sooner than you may imagine.

Your Essential Guide to Balancing School, Work, and Family

May 7, 2018 by Mandy

Do you want to go back to school but are having issues balancing school, work and family? Here’s how you can be the ultimate mom and still get a degree.

Meet Super Mom. She cooks, cleans, chauffeurs, helps with homework, and still finds time for herself. She has personal and professional goals and she’s working towards them, one schedule-packed day at a time.

While being a mom is already a full-time gig in itself, 70% of moms work. Modern motherhood has transformed, allowing us to take on additional roles and career prospects. We can be all things, while still balancing school work and family.

Mom fails…they happen. Read on for the best ways to avoid them, all while balancing your education, career, and family.

Education

Many moms wonder how to work full-time and go to school. Whether you’re finishing your degree or starting over in a fresh new field, it can be done.

Technology gives a full-time mom more opportunity to enhance her education from the comforts of home. Many top accredited universities offer online business programs, providing flexibility for working moms.

When balancing school work and family, it’s important to first do your research on online degree programs. Follow these tips for selecting online courses that are right for you and your family, or click here to learn more about the benefits and process of getting your MBA online.

Ah, the quiet hour. That time of the day when your child is either peacefully napping or has just gone down for the night. If you’re a full-time mom and student, this is where those time management skills are going to come into play.

Career

Who’s the boss? It may seem like your child is, but in reality, you report to a superior.

Maintaining open communication with work colleagues is key. Make sure they are well informed and have plenty of notice when it comes to appointments or school functions that may interfere with work hours.

Sundays are for meal prep, and it’s going to make your work week demands much more manageable. Pre-prepping or packing lunch for the week saves time and lets you use your lunch break to get in an extra study session.

Utilizing public transportation to and from work also frees up your schedule. Take the bus, train, or Uber, so you can study or answer work emails on the go.

Family

Repeat this: Mom hard, work hard, and play hard. Mothers don’t technically get days off, but weekends are still a time to unplug and unwind with family.

Pick family activities that are fun for children, but also give mom a much-needed break. Spend a day on the beach or at the park and pack a healthy picnic lunch. To stay social, join a new moms group or plan a playdate with a group of friends.

Take advantage of “Mommy and Me” classes that are available in your area, offering activities such as:

Cooking
Swimming
Art lab
Storytime
Yoga
Sing-alongs or music

Make Saturday nights a family fun meal that kids can help with, such as tacos or gourmet pizzas. To cut down on time spent at the grocery store, use a meal delivery service such as Blue Apron or Hello Fresh.

To maximize organization, use an easily accessible and color-coded family calendar to keep track of appointments, school functions, and family activities. Get creative with a giant chalkboard or go interactive with a family calendar app, such as Cozi.

Balancing School Work and Family like a Super Mom

Truth is, we are super moms and we can have a healthy work-life balance. Yet balancing school work and family doesn’t have to be a solo feat.

Repeat this: It’s ok to say no, and it’s ok to ask for help. Don’t feel bad turning down social events when you’re wiped out. Do ask your husband, friend or colleague for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

We are better mothers and role models when we are less stressed and successfully maintaining our super mom status. If you’re in need of more resources, check out these happy family tips for further empowerment and education.

Five Great Gift Ideas to Cheer Someone Up With

April 6, 2018 by Mandy

There will be times in your life when you go through hard times and may need to be cheered up by the people closest to you. This could be due to personal tragedy, a bad time at work, or other problems. In any case, it won’t just be you who struggles sometimes, and you may be at a loss when someone close to you is feeling down. Although a gift can’t solve everything, it is a great way of reminding someone how loved they are if you choose the right one. If you are stuck for ideas, make sure you take note of some old but golden gifts to inspire you when choosing one for your loved one.

A spa day

Spas are known to be somewhere that people can relax and unwind, where warm waters and massages can help reduce anxiety and release a steady flow of endorphins into the body. If you have some spare money in your bank, then it’s a great idea for you to book a spa day for you and your loved one, where they might also open up to you about their struggles to make it a truly cathartic experience. After this, they will feel refreshed and ready for a good night’s sleep, where they will hopefully find some reprieve from their difficult time in the morning.

Luxury chocolate

You will have heard is said many times that chocolate is someone’s best friend. As the perfect comfort food, you can go one step further than buying a regular chocolate bar from your local store and buy a luxury chocolate bar gift, which will add a touch of something special to it. On nights when the recipient is feeling alone, and you aren’t there to comfort them, they can take a bite of the chocolate and know you are always there.

A herbal tea set

Herbal tea has been known for thousands of years to bring about a sense of calm in those who drink it, with infusions like chamomile being developed to aid in a good night’s sleep. For the tea lover in your life, there is nothing better to cheer them up with than getting them a herbal tea gift set. You can either handpick your own selection or buy them online to ensure you are getting the best quality for your loved one to settle down with.

Soft blankets

Sometimes, all someone needs is a hug or few during a tough time. Yet, you won’t be able to always be there for them when you have numerous other commitments to attend to. Buying somebody a soft blanket is a comfort in itself, but it will also act as a warm hug from you in the times you can’t be with them. In some cases, you can even make your own weighted blanket to help reduce any worries they may have when they are sleeping.

A salt lamp

Himalayan salt lamps are a unique choice, and you may wish to opt for candles instead. However, they can emit a softer glow that helps improve the air quality of people surrounding them, which could be a reassuring presence for your loved one in their time of need.

How to Inject Some Thrills into Your Life

March 22, 2018 by Mandy

Moms get sick stains and odd odors, tantrums, sleepless nights and upturned dinner plates, but these are certainly closer to ‘spills’ than ‘thrills.’ Between domestic bumbling and vocational toil, it might be difficult to capture moments of pure thrilling excitement like those experienced in your youth – difficult, but far from impossible, as this article will show. Here are a few ideas for fun and thrilling activities for busy moms who fancy a little boost of adrenaline amidst busy schedules that can at times feel a little overwhelming and limiting.

Extreme Sports

Starting off with the most adrenaline-pumping of all the options, there’s nothing better to get the pulse quickened. Nothing makes you feel alive more than taking a risk, albeit within stringent safety rules. One way to do so is through the world of adrenaline sports. You’ve got whitewater rafting and kayaking, go-karting and mountain biking, skydiving and paragliding that are all likely within a drive and certainly within a flight from your location. So, why not give yourself the mother of all thrills and join the select group of people who’d describe themselves as ‘adrenaline junkies’ – even for just a day.

Exciting Games

We’re not talking chess or patience here! There is a wealth of well-developed and exciting games out there that are tailored for the thrill-seekers of this world. Take the Greenville Escape Room – a devious set of mysteries and challenges that’ll put your skills of logic through their paces before the time runs out to escape the room. Or, how about a murder mystery night with friends (maybe a group of moms!) where each of you plays a character in a murder plot that unravels over an evening of wine and merriment. There’s plenty of plots to be found on the internet to get you started.

Place a Bet

Gambling can seem a little like a male preserve but heading to a casino, in person with friends or over the internet, can give you a great little social buzz. It’s, of course, paramount to be sensible and knows when to cut your losses or take your winnings away with you. Games of chance that give you a thrilling run for your money, like watching a roulette ball spin before it settles, can be a pleasant little dose of excitement. You could even channel your inner James Bond at the poker table with friends – as much of a social event as anything else.

Go to Events

Large-scale events, such as music festivals, sporting fixtures, political rallies or community get-togethers immerses you in a crowd of people coming together for the same aim. There’s something uniquely thrilling about being a bobbing head in a massive sea of people, whether it’s cheering at a baseball game or dancing to one of your favorite bands. Buy some tickets and put some dates on your calendar and revel in the joy of being part of a throng.

Inject some excitement-fostering thrills into your life with these four tips that’ll give you a spurt of energy and joy that you can take into other areas of your life.

Skills To Help You Through A Crisis & Come Out On Top

August 16, 2017 by Mandy

Everyone faces tough times in their life. No one wishes it upon themselves, but knows they must deal with it head on to make the situation better. It can be upsetting and cause you pain and suffering that takes a long time to heal.

There’s nothing stopping you from being your best self, even if you’re faced with challenges. It’s up to you to build the necessary mindset that’s going to propel you forward out of muddy waters. Find the fighter deep inside of you that’s going to get you through life’s obstacles. See skills to help you through a crisis and come out on top.

Be Honest

You may not believe it at first, but let the bad news sink in. Be honest about your situation and what you’re going to have to do to get past it. Avoid telling yourself lies to try and protect your feelings. Take time with it and learn to accept the circumstances as they stand. Come to terms with what’s happened and what it means for you and your life. You can’t change the past, but you can alter your future. Once you’ve let it all soak in, put your best foot forward and start planning how you’re going to make it better.

Journal

Journaling is very powerful. It’s a great tool for getting your feelings and emotions down on paper in a private way. You don’t have to show anyone else your notes. Keep them to yourself and use them to assist you through your journey. Bring your journal around with you so you can jot down information as it comes to you. Review your journal and get a good idea of where you’re at in the healing process. Write down whatever comes to mind and don’t judge yourself for it. Let your feelings out and don’t worry about if they’re right or wrong in your opinion. This journal will also be helpful if you end up seeking professional help.

Ask for Help

Depending upon your circumstance, reach out for professional help. This could be for a counselor to talk through your issues with or to hire a lawyer if you find yourself in a bad car accident. If you do, contact www.stephenbabcock.com who are a group of personal injury lawyers ready to take on your case. Car accidents lead to medical bills, lost income and tremendous pain and suffering. They want to help. Whether you suffered serious injury or lost a loved one in an auto accident, you can count on the car accident attorneys at Babcock Partners to thoroughly investigate and analyze your crash, deal directly with the insurance companies on your behalf and demand full and fair compensation for you.

Take Care of yourself

Whatever you do, don’t lose yourself in the process of dealing with a crisis. You need to find your mind-body connection and nurture it. Use faith to help you manage your emotions. Exercise and eat properly to make sure you’re able to function to the best of your ability as you go through a very tough time. Don’t let your own wellness suffer as you cope. Always put yourself first and keep your health intact, so you’re able to deal with the stressors that you’ll continue to face in your journey. Take a yoga class, go for long walks or find an interesting book to read. Participate in activities that are good for you and put on a smile on your face. Letting your own health suffer will only make the situation worse.

Talk to Others

Open up and talk to friends or family. Share what happened to you and how you’re feeling. Let people in so they can help you. Talking feels good and will allow you to get a lot off of your chest. If you want them just to listen, then let others know that, or if you come seeking advice, make that known. Talking has a way of making everyone feel better. It’s possible you’ll be able to offer an ear or support to them as well. It’ll feel very refreshing to begin to unravel all of what you’re feeling and stop keeping it all bottled up inside.

Focus on One Day at A Time

The best course of action is to focus on one day at a time. Slow down and don’t rush what you’re facing. Let it take its course, even if it’s painful. You aren’t going to have resolutions right away. You have to give it time and practice patience. Time heals and each day will get better. It may not feel like it at first, but keep hope in your heart. Stop jumping several steps ahead and keep your focus on the now. Stay present and let the healing take its natural course of action. Healing is a process, and it’s important to accept that it’ll play out in stages.

Accept what you can’t Change

Although you may have faced a difficult situation, you can’t change it. You must accept that it happened and that there’s no doing it over again. There are simply circumstances in life that no one can change. You have to remember what’s in your control, which is your own reactions and thoughts. You have control of your and how you deal with events in your life. Allow yourself time to heal and come to terms with reality. It may not be what you want, but it’s what is and what you must accept. The good news is that you have the power to stay strong and influence your future. Pick yourself up now so you can work on building a brighter life for yourself.

Stay Busy

Although you may be faced with tragedy, you shouldn’t make it your life. It’s difficult and unfair, but you have to take care of yourself too. Avoid sitting at home thinking about it and get out and stay busy. Participate in activities, visit friends and get back to your life. You’ll find answers over time, but right now you should focus on you and your hobbies. You’ll receive updates and address concerns as they come. Keep your mind off of it by putting yourself out there again in a positive way. Do what you love to put a smile back on your face and keep your mental health strong. There’s nothing wrong with staying busy when you’re in need of a pick-me-up.

Remember your Strengths

No matter what you face in life, remember that you have your own strengths to offer. It’s during the difficult times that it’s hard to remember this fact. Make a list of your gifts and qualities and focus on those for the time being. Recall other times you had to be strong and what you did to get through uncertain situations in the past. It’s a good idea to understand that outside influences can’t shake or change who you are as a person unless you let them. Demonstrate your positive attributes and show the world that you came ready to fight. Give it time, and you’ll soon find yourself busting out of your shell and functioning at a high level again.

Keep A Positive Attitude

It may be difficult, but keep a positive attitude in all situations. Don’t let a crisis stop you from displaying an uplifting outlook. Be optimistic and encouraging to yourself and others in a time of need. Positive thinking skills work and have the power to bring better days your way. Negativity will only drag everyone down and keep you from moving forward. Make a list or read positive affirmations to establish an inspirational point of view. Avoid others who are pessimistic. That isn’t what you need in a time of distress. Surround yourself with people who lift your spirits and encourage you to heal.

Be Determined

You have to demonstrate the right attitude to come out on top. Be determined to have it no other way, but better in the end. Give yourself an extra push to get over the humps and keep focusing on a better future. Don’t let yourself cave at any cost. Take a strong stance that you’re going to get through this and come out a better person on the other side. Never give up and stay open and willing to do whatever it takes to feel better. Determination is a strong attribute and will get you far in life. Let this be your chance to prove to everyone that you have what it takes to break through the struggles and live your best days yet.

Conclusion

Everyone is bound to face a dilemma in their lifetime. Whether it’s serious or not, it causes you some anguish. You don’t have to go through problems alone. There are ways to work through them and not let yourself suffer in the process. You have to be willing to try whatever it takes to get you to better times. These are skills to help you through a crisis and come out on top.