Things you need to know about me #3

~ Nicky M ~ 1 Comment

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I love lists

I love a good list I do. Love, look forward to, lust after…

I love writing them, adding to them, crossing items off them and I write them in abundance.

I write to-do lists in my planner, blog ideas on the back of receipts when out and about, reminders in my phone, even notes on the back of my hand!

I write lists for many reasons: gratitude lists at the end of the day, reasons I love you (to hubby), lists of things I noticed, ideas for my art journal and generic to-do lists. Hell, I even enjoy creating lists of lists I could create!

Reasons lists are amazing:

  • You get to use cute stationary
  • It’s easier to prioritise events written down
  • You sleep better knowing your thoughts are contained on paper
  • You don’t have to remember everything if it’s written down
  • I enjoy writing them – pure and simple
  • There’s satisfaction in seeing what you’ve crossed off and achieved
  • You feel more organised and quite grown up

 

I’ll leave you with a list of ideas of lists you could write. You might learn something about yourself – it’s all good in the journey of self discovery.

  1. Write a list of 5 things you need to experience in order to have a good day (not necessarily material items)
  2. Compile a list declaring your values (the things you would not compromise on)
  3. Write down your favourite days out or experiences (fantasy or real)
  4. Record any compliments you are given (great to read when you’re feeling low)
  5. Create a list of people who you admire or have inspired you (take it one step further and write them a fan letter)
  6. Make a note of any quotes that are special to you (write them in your planner, post them on your mirror or frame them so you see them regularly)
  7. Explore all the positives that make you unique (be your own cheerleader)

Please forgive the obvious indulgence in this post, couldn’t help myself…

 

Imagine your perfect day

~ Nicky M ~ 1 Comment

pm tea

How fashionable is afternoon tea now?

I recently enjoyed a lovely afternoon surrounded by slim cut sandwiches, mini cakes and sumptuous scones – laden with jam and clotted cream.

I always look forward to the presentation with anticipation, each one slightly different from the last as the venue places their own unique spin on it. I get excited when the choice of lovelies are revealed, seeing them in all their delicate finery.

As experiences go, it’s definitely something that has earned a place on my perfect day fantasy.

What would you include in your perfect day?

It’s a question I ask the children I work with regularly. I learn so much about what’s going on inside their heads by what they draw.

Some kids draw the whole she-bang. Disneyland, riches, the perfect bedroom full of toys. Some draw their dreams. To be a fighter pilot, racing car driver or work with animals.

Some, however draw the simple things. Choosing to eat whatever they want for breakfast or a day spent with a family member they don’t get to see often.

What elements would be in your perfect day?

Over the years I have perfected my fantasy – I revisit it regularly as it never ceases to amaze me how it changes over time. As you become clearer on what fulfils you, makes you smile, has value and what is important to you, your perfect day will evolve and the experiences you ponder on, will change too.

Give yourself permission to daydream about your perfect day.

empty plate

How would it start, or end? Who would be there with you? How might it be different from the things you spend time on now?

You might be surprised by where your mind takes you…or not.

It’s the little things 20/02/16

~ Nicky M ~ Leave a comment

This week I have smiled abundantly, chuckled regularly and generally done a lot of grinning!

Here’s my favourite moments from this momentously positive week.

pm tea
Divine afternoon tea at The Edgbaston
parcel
That little extra effort in packaging
coffee
Patterns in my coffee
gym
Back at the gym after 3 weeks recovery
cosmo
The perfect pink cosmo

 

candle
This heart candle in a very cool bar (Suds n Duds Birmingham)

Phew! What a lot to be grateful for this week. What have you smiled at this week?

Wishing you a smiley week to come.

Hugs

Nicky x

Seven ways to bring a little positivity into work

~ Nicky M ~ 1 Comment

image

It’s one of those days where you are surrounded by colleagues who seem intent on letting you know just how bad their life is, whilst simultaneously consuming all the good vibes in the room.

Don’t misunderstand me, I’m a good listener and always have an ear available for someone who needs it. I’m talking about the people whose glass is never half full and always, always have a drama they need to tell you about!

If you’ve encountered these lovely folks at any time you know how exhausting, boring and down right annoying they can be. You might even find you become less like your cheerful self the more time you spend around them.

Firstly, remember everyone is on a journey. From time to time we all have stuff on our mind and in our lives and sometimes we have to accept it is what it is. Depending on how much time and energy this requires, our stores can become more depleted than usual.

“It’s not the trek that smothers our spirit but the toughness of the terrain”

I said that.

Secondly, instead of focusing on the negatives look for the positives. Search out ways to improve someone’s day and in turn it will lift your spirits.

Here’s seven ideas to introduce a little positivity in your workplace:

💛 Smile every time you greet someone – it’s contagious!

💛 Grab a drink for someone else whilst making yours – always appreciated

💛 Compliment someone on a job well done – even if it’s their job!

💛 Offer a listening ear to someone who you feel needs one

💛 Give someone your undivided attention over lunch

💛 Bring in goodies for your colleagues – anonymously is always fun!

💛 Put a motivational quote on the mirror in the ladies bathroom – guaranteed to be seen

Pick one that you could do this week.

Just one small change might be all you need to help someone (and yourself) smile a little more at work..

Be known for your positivity and sparkle. Leave a shimmering trail wherever you go.

Valentines Day – is it worth all the hype?

~ Nicky M ~ 1 Comment
wooden hearts
freeimages.com

Let me make one thing clear, I am a total romantic.

I’m married to a wonderful man and I believe in love, gifts and sharing experiences together – I really do.

But I just don’t buy into all the hype.

We can show important people in our lives love on any day and in any way that you choose – not just the one day the card industry designates and not only with twelve red roses.

If you’re feeling loved right now and have had a great morning so far, I am genuinely happy for you.

But just so you know, you don’t need to wait until February nor do you need Prince Charming to shower you with love. You can sprinkle yourself with a little love any time.

Here’s my seven go-to things that I do when I’m in need of a little love.

I go to bed early – to sleep, read or just lie there and be grateful

I enjoy being girly – I buy sparkly things, wear make up, dress up

I pamper myself – long hot baths, face masks, candles (you get the picture)

I embrace my imperfections – I acknowledge that some days are better than others

I exercise – the gym, yoga at home or a short walk – it’s all good

I enjoy my food – nothing is off limits (but everything in moderation)

I buy myself flowers – why not?

Be nice to yourself, give yourself a break, love yourself just a little bit more today.

Nicky x