Be Fabulous - Inspire

May Horoscopes

2013-05-06T17:21:34Z

MAY HOROSCOPES

TAURUS

This month is all about placing your trust and most of all who can you trust? There will be certain changes made beyond your control? However, in a strange way you will reap the rewards! The offer of support is a genuine one so go for it! Cash will come in the form of mini surprises.

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Grace yourself in the finest of details so others cannot change you.

GEMINI

Freedom is a word very much close to your heart this month! If you have to make a decision go with your natural instinct and trust as this will make you feel better. New friendships will be formed this month. There for, pick and choose wisely those you would like to count as close friends? Offers of new jobs will make you feel real good!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Commitment is a positive word and nothing to fear away from.

CANCER

Travel plans in the making and also includes that word fun! Talks of going on a course maybe a necessity but at the end of the day you could benefit from it? It is smiles all round especially when meeting certain persons of the opposite sex? People will be asking what makes you as motivated as you are always on the go.

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Believe in yourself and others will follow.

LEO

Any offers associated with learning or picking up a new skill snap up the chance as it may not come round again? A wedding invite comes from an unexpected source? Financially it is not too bad of a month for you but it does not mean you can go crazy spending! Keep your faith as another new door opens bearing gifts you simply cannot refuse!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Dreams are showing you signs to be more aware off!

VIRGO

This month no-one can spoil your happiness as everything goes like clock- work for you. An offer to get fit could lead you to meeting new people with a personal interest in a particular person? Remember to leave room for those playful moments in your life as a certain someone would like to spend more time with you!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Reach up and grab every single opportunity going as now it is your time!

LIBRA

Someone is about to claim that you are very special to them? Therefore, be ready to give a reply as they are expecting one? Work commitments will become a little bit more demanding? However, the benefits you could receive will be amazing! Making your cash go further allows you to reap the rewards.

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Courage comes from within and can be used in all forms and directions.

SCORPIO

This is a month when lots of opportunities come your way! However, you will have to choose wisely as this does not happen that often? The number two is a promising number when it comes to cash offers? A journey crossing water could be very promising especially when you meet a business connection?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Good friends can be like Angels when offering advice!

SAGITTARIUS

A massive breakthrough allows you the chance to display your skill and knowledge which could open new doors for you? This will give you the chance for independence! Relationships are looking good but do not go over board when it comes to purchasing gifts?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Be yourself as no-one expects any different.

CAPRICORN

The financial road looks good from here on in! However, no over spending or you could be back to square one. Be patient as everything is coming to you and this includes a lovely surprise? Looking at property could happen towards the end of the month?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Everyone has to learn a lesson or about life before they can truly understand things or people.

AQUARIUS

Thinking about moving jobs? The answer is `yes` go for it as the divine timing is right as everything falls into place! This is a month were relationships has a better understanding plus progress were future plans are concerned? Don`t get caught up in idle gossip or you may regret it?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Staying calm and keeping cool is the best guidance for this month.

PISCES

The month of May sees you taking control of your own destiny and not before time too! So enjoy this new found freedom as a likely new soul-mate could enter your pathway sooner than you think? Money luck is bringing along an attraction of new wealth too!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Your wisdom, strength and courage are growing but so is the physical body too!

ARIES

This month sees your wearing different career heads but you will be surprised at the end results! The opportunity to travel brings a smile to your face. Meeting new people will open new doors but stay in control and do not get carried away! Money flows nicely this month as lessons have been learned in the past!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Its onwards and upwards so clear vision is required at all times.

Busyness Addiction

2013-05-03T12:59:54Z

“How busy are you?”
Have you noticed this is one of the most common conversations that people have?
To answer, “not very busy” is perceived as a negative, like there’s something wrong or not working, rather than a positive that they’ve got their work life balance cracked. “I’m busy enough” is not a phrase that’s often uttered.

Busy means “having a lot to do” and it is held in esteem. We live in a manic society, where busyness is rife, it’s easy to rush around in a frenzy and never be still. As someone who is naturally born a rush-around ‘type A’ fast moving kind of person, I have weaned myself off the busyness drug, and find life more enjoyable now that my pace of life is not so hectic now. Busyness is especially strong in cities such as London, and the pace of life slower and more relaxed in the countryside. In countries such as Africa, the locals sit or lie at the roadside, languishing in non-busyness.

We have become a nation of busy human doings, not relaxed human beings. So why do people get so busy, and what can be done about it?

Why do people get busy?

Too many tasks for one person for a healthy work life balance
The buzz created by adrenaline gives a pleasant feeling
They haven’t spent time creating self-management systems and good prioritisation
They don’t have clear goals
They don’t know how/when to delegate
They think asking for help is a sign of weakness
To avoid difficult feelings, e.g. fear, sadness, anger, jealousy etc.
They have certain beliefs running e.g. successful people are busy
Avoidance of facing up to things that need to be faced up to, e.g. in the wrong job, with a partner not suited to etc.
Being busy gives a sense of control
Because their parents kept busy and they feel programmed this way, having mimicked them when growing up
Feeling guilty or lazy about doing nothing – there are many English expressions that fuel this e.g. a day’s work is never done
Modern society is super-fast; e mail/MSN etc create an expectation of an immediate response, shops are 24/7 these days, even Bank Holidays aren’t sacrosanct from work or shopping
We gain a false satisfaction of achieving something when we keep busy, we feel productive, even if it’s false productivity e.g. deleting all the SPAM from your e mail in-box
Success in defined in monetary terms, not life satisfaction. Size of house, new car, salary etc. and many are always busy striving to achieve it and once they’ve achieved their goal, they get busy focusing on a bigger house, second car etc. It’s never-ending

Why look at reducing busyness?

Happiness is in small moments observing life/nature which are easy to miss if you are rushing around
Research into the brain proves that insights to problems are created effortlessly by the unconscious mind when you give it space and time, rather than your conscious mind grappling with them
Being still, especially when in nature, gives a natural high that is better than the adrenaline high from being busy
Giving your children uninterrupted time is the best gift you can give them, and it’s free
You can miss opportunities/synchronicities if you always have your head down being busy
Few people get to the end of their life wishing they’d been busier, most wish they’d made more time for the simple and enjoyable things, like intimacy, fun, doing hobbies, having lie-ins and relaxing together or alone

Top 10 tips to help with busyness

Sit in a chair and do nothing for 10 mins – notice what internal dialogue occurs e.g. “I should be…”, “I can’t just sit here and…”
Learn to meditate and have a purpose to your meditation if you feel fidgety
Reflect on this question: What does busyness give me that’s positive?
Ask yourself, “What’s the cost to me and my close relationships of keeping busy?”
Read the book “The power of now” by Eckhart Tolle
Plan quiet time in your diary until it becomes a natural habit
Keep a diary for a week to increase your awareness of how you spend your time and how satisfied you feel, and use the information to make changes
Read Carl Honores book “In praise of slow”
Take yourself away from your normal environment with tasks winking for your attention, take a 30mins lunch break in the park; go away for a weekend
Find out what your values are with a coach, and redesign your life around what’s important to you, not what’s important to others or society

Here’s some quotes to reflect on:

‘Take time to be quiet’

Zig Ziglar

‘It is only possible to live happily ever after on a day to day basis.’

Margaret Bonnano

‘Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed’

Corita Kent

‘People spend a lifetime searching for happiness; looking for peace. They chase idle dreams, addictions, religions,
even other people, hoping to fill the emptiness that plagues them. The irony is the only place they ever needed
to search was within’

Ramona L. Anderson

Rachel Brushfield is director at Energise, the Talent Liberation Company and is based in Charlbury, Oxfordshire; tel 0845 22 55 010
She helps people to change work and work better and specialises in career reinvention.

Wedding Planning - a stress-free guide

2013-05-03T11:18:54Z

The 5 People Who Stress You Out When Planning Your Wedding And What To Do About Them

I don’t have to tell you that people planning weddings are stressed out. I’ve been around a few both personally and professionally of late and I’ve seen up close and personally how all sorts of stuff comes bubbling up to the surface. Old wounds get re-opened, old fights get re-fought and it can seem like this amazing, wonderful event is becoming eclipsed by crap. So who are the key players in the stress stakes and how can you cope with them better? Let’s take a look!

1. Wedding Vendors

Say “wedding” and the price goes up 25%. That goes for venues, caterers, florist etc. It’s one of the main reasons I know people choose to get married abroad where the wedding industry isn’t so intense – France for instance. Vendors want to make money and will often use what I call conversation spoilers such as judgement in order to apply the pressure and really hit your emotional trigger points. Have a budget and stick to it. Say NO (thank you). And learn to listen out for the kind of communication they’re using to get you to spend more than you’re comfortable with.

2. Divorced and bickering friends and family members

These people stress you out for a few reasons. One, you’re wondering how they’ll behave at your wedding. Two, you’re scared that’s going to be you in ten years with your love. And finally, it seems like they just suck all the positive energy out of the room.

How to deal with it? Well, this is where some savvy communication tactics come into play. Be ready to listen out for conversation spoilers like distortions, deletions, generalisations and providing solutions that all shut down open, honest and CLEAR communication. Second, brush up on your listening skills. Seriously, people love. to. talk. So if you can listen in a way that gets people talking, you’ll be off to the races in terms of diffusing the bickering and stopping it from raining on your parade.

Take some time to learn how to communicate to these folks so that you can let them know that what they’re saying is upsetting and hurtful and figure out some strategies together as to how you can move past this.

Finally, if you’re worried that this will be you and your honey in ten years time…think about a couple of sessions of pre-wedding counselling just to hone and polish your communication skills. Even the most sorted couples I know have said they benefited no end from taking this step to protect their relationship.

3. Well meaning opinions of others

Everyone will want to know the details of your wedding and everyone will have an opinion. That they’re not scared to voice. Sometimes forcefully. It blows my mind when I’m just on the side lines of a conversation about wedding plans…once revealed, I’ve heard people say, without a pause for thought of whether or not what they’re about to say might be hurtful, things like “Oh you don’t want to do that!” or “Green…? But that’s such a difficult colour to wear.” And guess what, you have the right to say “I don’t care”. You might not want to say that out loud or you might want to say it in a more polite way, but that’s still your right.

4. Your parents

Your parents may well have been a source of stress for most of your life, so why would they stop now, right?! Whether its complaining about money you’re spending, wanting to have a hand in everything, leaving you feeling like you’ll never live up to their ideals of what a wedding should be, or disapproving of your marriage totally, parents have that special knack to really push your buttons.

Be clear on your boundaries. That means being able to say no and sticking to it. If your parents are contributing money to the wedding, being clear on the boundaries is crucial. If you constantly find yourself saying “no, but” or “no, because” or “yes, no, maybe, I don’t know”…you’re demonstrating to that other person that it’s OK to push you, that it’s OK to over-step your boundaries because you don’t respect them either. It also means becoming aware of people-pleasing behaviour and making a conscious effort to move away from it.

5. Each other

It’s true, the number one person who will stress you out the most is the person you’re going to spend the rest of your life with. This is mostly because weddings are stressful, and they’re the person you’ll be around most. The most common complaints are “He’s not doing anything to help with the wedding” and “she never talks about anything other than the wedding.” Avoid this with some simple planning.
And guess what? Clear communication is, again, the best way to gracefully navigate these choppy waters. That might mean you go ahead to divide up the tasks between you so that you don’t suddenly get into a row about doing most of the organising (don’t forget to check in with each other, it doesn’t take much to report back to the other person and say “Done, x,y and z!”)

You might want to take this a step urther and sit down with a calendar. Figure out when you have time to schedule a couple of hours each week to deal with wedding stuff together.

Then, schedule a NO WEDDING night. This is perhaps the most important thing to stop each other from stressing you out. One night a week, neither of you are allowed to mention the word wedding or anything wedding related. This can be a date night, or just a relaxing at home together night to remind you why you’re going through all this craziness in the first place!

If you’d like to invest in some strategies to help make planning your wedding easier, then you’ll love this new audio download I’ve created especially with you in mind! It’s called How to Survive and Thrive While Planning Your Wedding and it’s packed to the gills with skills on how to spot communication spoilers, how to talk so people will listen and how to get what you want without sounding (or feeling) like a brat!

Tamarisk Saunders-Davies is the founder of Two Chairs Counselling, she specialises in working with women who kick ass now and take names later who can’t escape the feeling that their lives look good on paper, but suck in real life.

5 Simple Steps to a Perfect Kitchen

2013-05-03T08:44:26Z

Buying a new kitchen should be an exciting and rewarding process however with the multitude of choices available and decisions to make, it can also be quite overwhelming.

Follow our five easy steps and you’ll be well on the way to creating your own dream kitchen design.

1. Clarity – Be clear about what you want

Take your existing kitchen as a starting point – decide what you like and don’t like about it. What annoys you? Design, lack of workspace, poor storage, layout? Put together an ideas book – buy the kitchen and interiors magazines for inspiration and keep a note of designs you like and accessories that are of interest. Keep the book up to date when you’ve changed your mind about things. Try to have a clear idea of the design and colours before you visit any kitchen showrooms or invite any designers to your home. Given that there are so many other decisions to make along the way, it will help to have a solid foundation from the outset.

2. Budget

What you are willing spend will ultimately dictate where you get your kitchen from. Although your money won’t entirely be spent on cabinetry and appliances so you should do some careful planning. For example, your project may involve building work – are you planning to manage this yourself or do you want someone else to take care of it for you? Even apparently simple redesigns are likely to involve builders, plumbers and electricians. It is worth considering kitchen companies who offer a fully managed project, including preparatory building work and other services.
Consider flooring and worktops carefully and if you opt for underfloor heating, it’s important to note that it will impact what floor you can have, which will in turn have cost implications.

3. Make use of the experts

Even the budget DIY stores as well as the top-end kitchen specialists have experts who are there to help you. Make use of online design packages and visit several kitchen showrooms to get quotes. Don’t assume that a bespoke kitchen specialist will always be more expensive as they often stock a range of products to suit every budget. Very often, their knowledge and expertise will be worth the difference. A good designer will try to find out how you and your family envisage using the space as well as offer advice on more practical elements and design features. Draw up a wish list including appliances, storage solutions and other gadgets.

4. Careful Planning

Get organised! Gather together all the various elements of the project if you are managing it yourself. What services do you need – architect, builder, plumber, electrician…? Do you need planning permission or building regulations? Find these things out at the start to avoid making costly changes later. Be sure to obtain several quotes and contact builders early as good ones are often busy and booked up well in advance. Choose your kitchen designer and ensure you are both on the same page. Style and price are important however equally essential is a designer who understands your family’s needs and takes note of your requirements in order to pull everything together in your dream kitchen.

5. Finishing Touches

New kitchens usually include new appliances. If you are using a larger kitchen retailer or high-end designer, you are often able to get your appliances through them. If you would rather buy them yourself there are some incredible deals available on the internet. Worktops, flooring, taps sinks etc can also be supplied by the kitchen company and if you want to source them yourself, just be sure to have a schedule of works to avoid any delays in delivery of your new appliances or installations of worktops and flooring.

Other Tips

Granite and stone worktops require templating. This can often add up to two weeks to your schedule after the cabinetry is installed.

Some high-end kitchen companies will organise and project manage all building works. If yours won’t, you will need to do this yourself.

Have a contingency – it is worth keeping 10% of your budget aside for any unforeseen expenses.

Don’t overlook lighting. Ensure preparation areas have adequate task lighting and consider mood lighting that can be altered to change the mood of a dining or living area. Again, a lot of high end kitchen companies will advise and organise this for you.

You can never have too much storage, worktop space or power points!

Turnchapel Furniture is a small, family-run business based on the Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire borders. We specialise in bespoke English furniture and custom designed kitchens, created in our own factory in Lincolnshire.

Make a Positive First Impression

2013-05-03T07:12:31Z

How to be remembered by everyone you meet at a networking function, and how not to get lost among the other dozen people your “contact” spoke to!

Here’s a question:

Generally speaking, during most conversations do people like to talk more about: a) Themselves, or b) Other people.

The answer is of course, (a) Themselves.

Another Question:

Generally speaking, during most conversations do people: a) Tend to talk more than they listen, or b) Tend to listen more than they talk.

The Answer is of course , (a) Tend to talk more than they listen.

And another question:

If at networking events you’re listening while they’re talking, and then you ask a good follow-up question based on the information you just heard, are you going to be less or more likely to stand out in their minds?

The answer is more likely of course!

And if we know that networking is less about meeting new people than having them remember you after the fact, then keeping these techniques in mind is a great first step in helping you stand out from the crowd.

So how do get someone to remember you from the other ten people he met that very same night?

Well, simply ask the ‘right’ questions of people when you’re talking to them.

‘‘So where else do you normally network?’‘ Is a good example and an absolute gem! Not only does it help break the ice during that sometimes-awkward period just after you’ve introduced yourself, but it also gives you a chance to talk about something you both know a little bit about. Another reason this is such a great question is that it gives you the opportunity to make an “instant connection” with that other person, by providing valuable information they might not have had before.

And as we all know, one of the keys to creating a solid business contact is to first make a connection with that individual. As an example of this, if you’re at a networking event and ask someone where they normally network, and they say they don’t because they don’t know of many networking events, and you tell them all about BNI and how they can join you as a visitor to check it out and see how they can get lots more business, you’ll almost be able to see the relief in their eyes! And that’s what I mean when I talk about creating a connection with someone, and developing a solid business contact. And let me ask you something, if that were you, would you remember me after that event? You bet.

‘‘So what do you like best about what you do?’‘ Is another great question, one I like to ask early on in the conversation because in my opinion it’s a little “fresher” approach to the old, “So what do you do?” Everyone’s been asked that one before, and this question here gives you another option for getting that same information. One caveat though: About 40% of the time I ask this question, people turn it right around and ask me the same thing. So don’t say I didn’t warn you.

‘‘Oh I see. So what got you started in that direction?’‘ Is another example question you can ask. This is a great question to ask during the latter stages of the conversation, and of the three questions above, this will usually elicit the longest response. And that’s good too, because now we’re getting ready to wind down our conversation, but not before we get a chance to learn a little bit about what motivates this person, and how they got to where they are today.

All through this, remember to smile and be genuinely interested in what the other person is saying (or at least appear to be!). The people you remember most from any event are the ones that listened and were genuinely interested in you as a person – try this out and give other people this attention and you will start building stronger connections from your first-time meets!

Sign up here to receive Rachel’s Energise monthly bulletins via email.
Don’t miss out on free insights, tips and inspiring case studies.

Career strategies
Human capital
Smart living and working
Self promotion

Follow Rachel on Twitter: @talentliberator

Have you got any great questions that you ask whilst you’re networking, share them with us below…

How To Create And Use A Vision Board

2013-05-02T10:05:11Z

How To Create And Use A Vision Board

Pictures have an incredibly strong impact on our minds and on our subconscious. We dream in images and symbols and they also cross cultural and language boundaries – for example a heart is universally recognised as a symbol of love. This is why creating a vision board can be so powerful in helping you to achieve what you want in life. When you have an idea going around in your head it is sometimes hard to pin it down and make it real. A vision board literally lets you pin your ideas, hopes and aspirations up. It helps to crystallise your vision and is a daily visual reminder of what you will achieve!

Time for your ‘Blue Peter’ moment …

Essentially a vision board is extremely easy to make. You really just need a large piece of card and some glue, you could use a cork pin board or you can even make an online vision board on Pinterest! Then you need to sit down and think about what you want your vision board to help you achieve. You can have a general board that focuses on all aspects of your life or you might want to work on one specific area such as getting healthy or finding a new career.

Then you need to grab your inspiration and get cutting, sticking and pinning. You can uses images from magazines or newspapers and even old photos. You can also get some fantastic pictures from Pinterest although you do end up spending all day on there! If you are aiming for something specific it’s worth having a look at magazines that are going to inspire your vision. If you want to go travelling get some holiday brochures and if you want to loose weight find some inspiring slimming stories.

Don’t just focus on the material things!

It’s also important to use the images and pictures to symbolise not just the material things that you want but the feelings that come with them. So for example if you would like to be rich (wouldn’t we all) don’t just choose a picture of some money, choose something that would symbolise abundance in your life. If having money would give you some peace from worrying you could choose a picture of a tranquil lake. If you wanted to retrain as a doctor then a picture of a doctor is great but also how would achieving that make you feel? If you would feel “on top of the world” then why not get a picture of a flag on top of a mountain – a symbol of something achieved and an obstacle conquered.

You can also add in some inspirational quotes too. In fact if you are someone who prefers words to pictures you could do a vision board with words only – like the one above that I found on Pinterest.

A daily dose of inspiration

Make sure you keep your vision board somewhere you can see it every day. Look at it when you want to feel motivated or have had a setback or when you want some additional positivity in your life. I have found vision boards to be a powerful and inspirational tool and I am sure that you will too.

April Horoscopes

2013-04-03T20:24:10Z

APRIL HOROSCOPES

ARIES

This is a month were numbers of all descriptions will play a huge part in your life-path! Also, this could be known as the period of flaming passion? So prepared to take onboard all the lovely surprises coming your way? Overall, you will have a brilliant time especially if it is your birthday this month!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Serenity is a time for peace and reflection.

TAURUS

If someone has upset you then it is always best to let them know as it may have been miss-construed? Good news comes from a 3rd party which means an invitation could be heading your way! The gift of love is a special one and some-one special could want to share it with you? Your finances appear to be okay for this month!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Take time out to meditate about where you would like to go in life.

GEMINI

It is time to talk and listen to those who are closest to you. Need a bit of sparkle in your life? Say no more? Someone has plans to spice up your love life and this could become long term! Look out for the person born under the star sign Libra as a new opportunity could be spoken about? Cash injection will come and go this month so go steady!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Study everything that comes your way and that includes people!

CANCER

You will find yourself happy and contented in your own company. However, that will not last long as others have big plans for you! This is a good month to consider those all important career changes you keep thinking about? Talks of moving property could actually take place this month but it would be a huge surprise for others?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Abundance is what this month is all about.

LEO

Does it feel like you are standing at a crossroads? Well, it does not have to be just accept the pass, be in love with the present and visualize the future. A business offer comes from a person involved with property? The 7th of April sees you being lavished with invites and one could hold the chance of meeting a soul-mate?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Peace and harmony allows you the chance to relax and thinking time.

VIRGO

This month is all about being and feeling hopeful! Use the words and actions to encourage situations to move forward! Your cash flow will increase quicker than you think but chose to spend it wisely. Thoughts of planning a journey could actually take place allowing other to cope without you for a short period?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Placing your trust within yourself is the first step!

LIBRA

Take note of all these fabulous hugs coming your way and in particular one that lingers? This is a wonderful time for all sorts of celebrations going on around you! Be prepared for the new friendships and some-one from the past will try to make amends? Is it a good idea? Only you can answer that one! A little cash bonus is heading its way towards you so enjoy!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
By keeping positive thoughts you are producing your very own miracles.

SCORPIO

This month it is all about the connection to do with keys! This could be handling a key that could open a new door? Such as, a car or property! Or unlocking and opening up your spiritually? Lots of new changes are coming in so be open to accept them in the way they are presented! Financially, you will begin to see just how better off you are at being your own boss!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Patience is a virtue so relax and reap all those lovely rewards.

SAGITTARIUS

The offer of travel at the beginning of the month will come as a surprise but go as you will really have a great time! Happiness and domestic bless is how you will describe this month because not only are you feeling satisfied but others will too! Signing legal documents will show indication on how committed you really are about a certain situation?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Release any negative thoughts and be open to receive positive ones.

CAPRICORN

The family circle is much stronger this month because of the extra exciting news that concerns certain family members? Wishes can come true and it looks like this is your month to do so! A surprised gift comes your way so don`t spoil it by asking too many questions instead enjoy the moment! Remember always to include a little play-time and allow that inner child its freedom!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Your Guardian Angel assists you in more ways than one!

AQUARIUS

The opportunity to actually sit down and look at holiday brochures with others not only sounds exciting but there will be commitment too? This month sees you smiling more because you will have plenty to smile about! Someone is offering unconditional and this could be the sign you that you were searching for? Shopping for new clothes could mean a special event/ celebration?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
It is best to forgive than to harbor anger thoughts!

PISCES

Receiving lots of encouragement spurs you to move forward with your plans! Always leave time aside to entertain your close friends as someone may feel left out? A loving embrace is coming in sooner that you think? Careful what you wish for as it may not be what you really want!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
New beginnings is practically on your door step.

For a more in-depth reading then contact Pauline’s fabulous new premium psychic-line, Seeking Answers

Making working from home, work for you

2013-04-02T17:32:03Z

Making working from home, work for you

As a freelancer I spend the majority of my week working from home, which is both lovely and tricky in equal measures.

It’s a strange thing, working from home. On the plus side, it provides flexibility, comfort and the ability to get more work done but it can also be lonely, distracting, and too tempting to just put your feet up and relax. After taking the plunge to go freelance a few months ago, I think I’m finally beginning to get to grips with being a home worker.

But for those of you who haven’t, here are a few tips to make working from home seem a little more fun and a whole lot easier.

Pick a place and own it

If you work from home, you need a space that belongs to you and you only. Having a designated work area will make you feel and act more professional and will also allow you to ‘shut the door’ on your working life when you’ve finished for the day.

If you’re able to turn a whole room in your house into an office, then do it. If not, at least make sure you have a decent working area with a desk, drawers and shelves. Also, if you want to keep sane whilst working from home, don’t set up a workspace in a busy room like a kitchen or dining room. Try the spare room, garage, shed or conservatory, anywhere that offers a little bit of peace and quiet.

Get organised

Working from home requires a certain degree of organisation. So if you want to get things done, keep your desk tidy and make sure you always file everything away in its place. If you haven’t got decent files or organising tools then go and buy some…quick. Mountains of paperwork can appear overnight if you’re not careful and can take hours to sort. So save yourself the aggro and hold on to your sanity. Stay organised and tidy and keep a ‘no chaos’ zone.

Pimp up your desk

Most home workers spend a lot of time sat at a desk, so it makes sense to make your space as pretty, comfortable and inspiring as possible. Firstly, buy a decent desk chair. Secondly, surround yourself with beautiful, sentimental or motivational objects such as plants, photographs of loved ones or small ornaments. Pin up anything that inspires you or makes you smile, be it your kid’s drawing, an inspirational phrase or a picture of your next holiday destination. And finally, think about creating an ideas board – a great way to enhance creativity and motivation levels.

It’s ok to be selfish

A bold statement, but when you work from home, you really need to be selfish and put your professional needs first. People who don’t work from home don’t seem to appreciate that although you are at home, you are actually working. So if friends and family members pop by for a coffee or ring you up in the middle of the day for a leisurely chat, get tough and explain that you are working and will see or speak to them later.

If you live with people, be it a friend, husband or children, then it can become even more complicated so try and stick to a regular working routine. This way people should understand when to leave you alone. Keep the door shut, locked if need be or hang a sign on the door which says ‘do not disturb’. If this doesn’t work, consider going elsewhere to find peace and quiet such as a library or internet café.

Take a break

You may be at home but you are working, so make sure you take regular breaks and lunch hours, as you would in any ‘normal job’. Try and leave your desk every couple of hours and make sure you have a decent lunch. Both your work and your health will thank you for it. Oh, and don’t be tempted to do the dishes or tidy up either.

Shower and dress

Yes, you are expected to work in your pyjamas if you listen to envious friends and family members but would you ever go into an office dressed like that? It’s very easy to be tempted into just ‘slobbing it’ when you work from home, but please don’t. Get showered, get dressed, do your hair and even put some make-up on. You’ll feel miles better for it, act more professional and won’t frighten off the postman if he delivers you something nice.

Mix it up

Working from home is fantastic but don’t become ‘stuck indoors’. Make sure you leave the house at least a few times a week. Attend meetings, network with people or just go somewhere else to work for a few hours. Mixing things up will keep it interesting and remind you how lucky you are to have that flexibility.

Enjoy it!

If you don’t love working from home, do something about it. Working from home can be difficult, lonely and even boring at times, but it also offers independence and a flexibility that can’t be beaten, so enjoy it! Make the most of it and if at times you forget how lucky you are, remind yourself of the fact that getting stuck in rush hour traffic is no longer how your day begins.

How to have great looking skin

2013-04-02T17:16:25Z

Winter is nearly at an end (about time!) … I hope, and we should soon be enjoying milder and longer days. However, you may find, as many of my clients have, that your skin is suffering from months of exposure to extremes of temperature as we move from the harsh cold outdoors into centrally heated homes and offices.

I meet lots of women who are under the misapprehension that looking after your skin properly is arduous, time consuming and expensive. On the contrary implementing a simple skincare regime takes only a few minutes and can see dramatic results when applied daily.

I love teaching skincare and often use, the albeit, unglamorous analogy of decorating to explain the importance of a good skincare regime. In the same way as when you are decorating a room and painting the walls the results you get will only be as good as the preparation work you are prepared to put in beforehand. Simply slapping some paint on a wall that hasn’t been sanded, filled or had a base coat applied, will look a mess and similarly applying makeup to skin that has been neglected will yield similar results. Beautiful makeup needs a good base on which to be applied.

Women are often surprised to learn that only 25% of ageing is as a result of your genes and that’s it is never too late to implement a simple skincare regime. I recently worked on a film shoot making up models and actors who were 40+. Models because of the business they are in generally lavish attention on their skin and consequently it makes applying makeup easy.

Here are my top tips for great looking skin and makeup

Use a product containing SPF of 25 or more everyday

Many women are under the misapprehension that you only need to apply SPF when you are out in the sun.UVB rays are certainly responsible for burning the skin but UVA, can pass through window glass and is associated with skin ageing. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the base layer of the skin so even if you’re not getting burnt, you’re still likely to be ageing your skin. Just remember, A is for ageing and B is for burning.

Moisturise

The health benefits of drinking plenty of water go without saying but opinion remains divided on how much drinking large quantities of water will actually improve the look of your skin. However what is certain is that he only way to treat dry skin is with hydrating skin care day and night

Remove all your makeup before going to bed!

This should go without saying, after all you wouldn’t put a shirt you’d been wearing all day back in the cupboard without washing it, so why would you do that to your skin? But many women do! Cleansing your skin before going to sleep is essential to enable the skin to rejuvenate overnight.

Exfoliate Regularly

The skin is constantly regenerating, and in a four week cycle living cells move from the bottom of the epidermis to the surface of the skin. Using an exfoliator regularly gently removes dead skin cells and clears pores and will help refine and smooth the skin.

Avoid heavy black eyeliner

Heavy black eyeliner applied all around the eyes, particularly if you are over 40 will make you look older than you are. I recently worked with a client in her 50’s that was doing just that! She was delighted to see how much more youthful she looked when instead of painting on a harsh line I used a soft brown shadow which had a soft subtle effect that enhanced her lovely eyes.

Apply blusher

As we age our skin becomes sallow. It is amazing how a soft pink or peach blusher applied to the apple of the cheeks gives an instant youthful glow.

Groom Eyebrows

It has often been said that our eyebrows are the frame to our faces so keeping them groomed and shaped is essential. Our eyebrows become bushier as we age so regular plucking or threading will keep them in check. The skin is thinner and very delicate around the eye making it much more prone to damage so I wouldn’t recommend waxing your eyebrows particularly as I have seen women who have been burnt above the eye as a result of waxing!

Do you have any top tips of your own to share … leave us a comment below …

My Little Positivity Trick

2013-04-02T11:07:04Z

My Little Positivity Trick.

I do this thing with Grace every night. I didn’t think anything of it really, but a couple of my Mummy friends I’ve mentioned it to have said they think it’s a lovely idea, and they do it too now. So I thought I’d share it.

I can’t remember when I started doing it, but I remember why. You see, I went through a phase of reading self-help books during a low point in my mid-twenties. For the most part – they didn’t really help. However – there was one piece of advice that for some reason stuck with me. I can’t remember the book, or the exact method it recommended, but it was to do with writing down anything positive from your day before you go to bed.

Even if you’ve had the worst day in history, have been stressed to buggery, or it’s been mundane as hell, you can always dig deep to find something:

I’ve had a good chat with my friend this morning.
I cried and felt better for it.
I got to read a few chapters of a good book.
Etc.

I have since found out that writing down positive thoughts, and/or reasons to be grateful is quite a commonly recommended psychological practice, and has been found to be very effective in improving mood and encouraging happiness. (I could launch into the science and research behind it all at this point – but nah. I’ll keep it short and sweet I think.)

So for a while, I did this excercise religiously, and I’m sure it went some way into instilling a little positivity again. Nowadays I don’t bother for myself, but I do my own little version with Grace every night. We read our bedtime story and cuddle together. I ask her to think of three nice things about her day. Before she was as verbal, I’d tell her three nice things about her day. Now I can ask – prompt if need be – and it’s lovely.

Even after a nightmare day from hell when she’s been a little madam and I’m at my wit’s end, we always think of something. Tonight, she volunteered the following:

My play with Poppy.
My seen Grandma and Grandad.
My throw TEN sticks in the puddle with Mummy.

She then re-played the stick throwing – counting to ten and laughing to herself.

I’m no psychology expert. I’m definitely no parenting expert. But I love this habit we’ve developed of ending every day with nice thoughts. I suppose that deep down, I’m hoping it’ll kind of help her develop a happy mind-set. If she can learn to find the good in even the not-so-good days, then surely that’s a positive thing?

Top Ten tips for Business Success

2013-04-02T10:12:33Z

Top Ten Tips for Business Success

Each of us will discover our own path to success but here are 10 tips for business success that I’ve learned along the way….

1. Innovation

Is key to survival in all areas of life whether it’s technology, fuel or education. Updating or introducing new products and services, keeping things fresh and enticing, will help you grow a client attractive business. And as Richard Branson writes in a recent blog, ‘Finding time for aspirational thought is vital. When I am on Necker Island, I spend time every day in a hammock with my notebooks and iPad, thinking over new dreams and ideas’.

2. Step out of the comfort zone

In order to provide the best level of service for my clients I do aim to get out there and try different approaches. Of course it has meant making my share of mistakes but the best thing, about stepping out of the comfort zone, is that is where the MAGIC happens! And yet most of us just don’t go there!

3. Be productive rather than busy

I’ve shifted my attention every day to focus on longer term projects and revenue generating ideas. Although the results are not as immediate as the usual day to day ‘busy’ activities, the final outcomes are more satisfying.

4. Ask for help!

Successful business owners always have great people to support them otherwise it can be a lonely and exhausting existence doing everything yourself. Having the right team around is essential for health, wealth, happiness and success.

5. Charge what you’re worth

Unless you value yourself it’s unlikely that others will, which can lead to under-earning and feelings of low self-worth and resentment. If this is an area that you struggle with then I recommend getting help to address your money mindset as it will have a HUGE impact on your financial success.

6. Have more impact

This means having the confidence to standout, add amazing value and reach out to more people in an authentic and unique way.

7. It’s all about relationships

At the end of the day business is about the quality of the relationships we develop and the people we meet along the way…. that’s what we will remember and hopefully treasure. When we focus on our client relationships life becomes easier.

8. Enjoy the journey

Running a business can be like driving a train without really knowing when or if you’ll reach your destination. It’s easy to travel at a hundred miles an hour (or more) without slowing down to view the scenery. Take time to savour even small moments of achievement as these will give you the confidence and impetus to stay on track.

9. Master your marketing!

It’s no secret that to attract more clients you have to have GREAT marketing which motivates and inspires your ideal audience. Find ways to market your products and services in ways that you enjoy and that will showcase your uniqueness.

10. Self-care

Staying healthy and having energy is my number one priority. Green juices, more plant based foods and yoga help me achieve mental clarity and physical stamina. As a result I’m in a much better place to serve my clients and develop creative solutions for my business.

And some final words from Richard Branson’s recent article on Finding a Work-Life Balance…

To be refreshed and ready for anything, you need to find time for play. You are far more likely to succeed if you are having fun, so play just as hard as you work, if not harder! Find time to laugh, whether it is catching up with friends, chatting to new people or sharing a joke on Twitter. Then when opportunity knocks, open the door and make every second count.

Managing stress as a working mum

2013-04-01T21:30:51Z

Work stress is a major issue facing the UK workforce at present, with Government figures showing that one in five people suffers from workplace stress. But you probably don’t need us to tell you that if you’re a working mum-you already know all about work stress! What you might like is some advice on how to manage the stress so here are some tips that hopefully won’t be too stressful to follow!

Improve your time management

Cut down on inefficient uses of your time and on activities that are draining you. Even though it’s tempting to go out boozing anytime the babysitter’s available, cut down on these late nights, especially when you have to get up early the next day.
Prepare everything you can for the next day the evening before, once you put the kids to bed. This includes clothes, documents, meeting preparation and so on. This will save panic and stress in the morning when you’re trying to get both yourself and your children ready.
Create to do lists to help you stay on top of things. Use them as checklists you can tick off tasks from. It will keep you focused and also make you feel good when you have achieved each task. This applies to both parenting and work tasks-make separate lists if that makes it less confusing for you.

Watch your diet

What you eat can affect your energy levels and therefore how you cope with the amount of pressure you are under. Cut down on ready meals, takeaways and chocolate. Eat more fresh vegetables and fruit and manage your diet. The healthier you are the less susceptible to stress you will be.
If you’re eating right, it will also be easier to encourage your children to have healthy eating habits from an early age. Having said that, it’s alright to have a bit of chocolate every now and again. Hello, like I expect you to cut it out altogether?!

Exercise

If you do not have time to exercise, make time! Early in the morning, after work, on the weekends or during your lunchtime perhaps. Maybe even flex your working hours to fit it in if you can. It is important. Keeping fit will make you feel better, give you more energy, make your brain work more efficiently and effectively and overall help your performance at work.
Yes, exercise is a chore but you can make it fun by doing it with your children. For example you could go on a bike ride together, take a long walk in the woods or splash about in the local swimming pool.

Flex your working hours

See if there is some flexibility around your work. Talk to your boss. Explore whether working from home is an option. Having just one day at home every now and again can really help with your energy levels by cutting out travel and giving you more control over when and how you work. It also gives you more time and opportunity for sorting things out from a parenting point of view, be it helping your children with homework or registering them for a new club.
If it suits the timing of the school run, get into work slightly earlier and leave earlier, or get in later and stay later in order to avoid rush hour and traffic. You can reduce the time needed to travel and hence save a lot of energy, especially if you do have a school run to contend with as well as getting to work.

Manage your workload

If your workload is overwhelming and too much to handle, see if you can delegate it or get your colleagues and team mates to help out with different elements to spread the load. However, be careful not to assume that co-workers without dependents will necessarily have no life and no stress! It is important that you communicate what you are doing with those you are working with. This also applies to communication with your partner, nanny, schoolteachers and the children themselves. Even if your children are too young to understand exactly why you’ll be home late, explaining things to them will help you form a bond of communication with them that can last a lifetime.

Autumn St. John is the Content Manager and Web Editor of Position Ignition. Position Ignition is a careers company dedicated to taking you to the next step in your career. We’re passionate about helping individuals find the right career path for them, whether it involves finding a more rewarding career, making a career change, figuring out the right career plan or being creative about career directions.

WIN: A pair of tickets to the Country Living Spring Fair!

2013-03-07T14:31:13Z

Spring and fresh ideas are in the air at the Country Living Magazine Spring Fair

With the prospect of sunny days; gardens bursting into bloom; new ideas for the home; outdoor activities and summer picnics, the Country Living Magazine Spring Fair is perfect for planning ahead. From the 20th – 24h March at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London N1, the Fair is a brilliant day out.

Reveal your inner artist at the craft and art workshops. Sip and savour delicious English wines in the guided tasting sessions – alongside lots of other tasty treats from regional producers.

There are 400 artisan enterprises presenting a wealth of ideas for the home and country lifestyle vying for your attention. Come and meet Philippa Forrester in the Outdoor and Nature theatre and find out how to attract wildlife into your garden. This year there’s so much more to discover at the Country Living Magazine Spring Fair so book your tickets now and take advantage of the special advance price.

Be Fabulous ticket offer – special price of £11.50 by quoting CLS3
(As opposed to the ticket price on the door which is £16.00)

Tickets must be booked no later than 1pm on the day before the due visit.

TELEPHONE: 0844 848 0160; or book online at www.countrylivingfair.com/spring

PLUS: WIN one of 3 PAIRS OF FREE TICKETS!

If you’d like the chance to win a free Pair of tickets then simply leave a comment below and everyone will go into the ‘hat’ and 3 pairs of tickets will be sent out, first class, on Monday 18th March. So ENTER NOW …

Address:
Business Design Centre, Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH

Nearest tube:
Angel – Northern Line (Bank branch)

Opening Hours:
Wednesday 20 March & Thursday 21 March – 10.00am to 6.00pm
Wednesday Gala Evening – 6.30pm to 9.00pm in aid of the Addington Fund
Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th March – 9.30am to 6.00pm

All ticket bookings are subject to a 0.95p booking fee per booking (not per ticket).

Web: www.countrylivingfair.com
Tickets: 0844 848 0160

March Horoscopes

2013-03-03T18:55:21Z

MARCH HOROSCOPES

PISCES

March is a month full of exciting chances to come in and some with the most ever lasting results! Planning a far away holiday or journey? Make sure the finances are in order first or you could be in for a disappointment? A lovely phone call from an acquaintance will bring back that wonderful smile upon your face plus you may have some good news to share as well?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Freedom is a word we sometimes forget. Therefore, the Angels ask you that you seek your own freedom first then concentrate on others!

ARIES

You have the grand total of 3 lovely celebrations coming in this month! A very surprising bargain comes in connected to money? The situation could be handled by a strawberry blonde female? The opportunity of putting your roots down comes round a second time but this is so different! Visiting a location will open up new opportunities?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
The Angels ask that you study every little detail not only to do with day to day living but what the inner mind, body & soul requires.

TAURUS

New chance to put everything just right is seen as the perfect opportunity to have a party! A certain person is asking for time alone with you for a chat? So, why not make it easy and just say “Yes”. The emotional journey you have been on will finally come to a very satisfactory end! A gift of flowers speaks volumes.

ANGEL GUIDANCE
To forgive and to forget is all part of the healing process. Therefore, allow your Angels to work along of you.

GEMINI

Remove any negative thoughts or ideas as it’s the positive ones you should be working on! March sees some invites coming in especially connected to birthday celebrations? The next 6 months is all about saving some cash towards that all important project you would to set in motion?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Your thoughts have to be pure ones if you are to succeed!

CANCER

A new job offer comes from a well known local company? However, do not delay too long with your reply as others could be keen to accept the wonderful offer! House hunting could be on the cards this month? Start to put yourself first for a change and see the reaction it has on others!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Your Angels wait to hear your latest request.

LEO

This month is all about an important money offer! It could mean a new job etc! Think before you speak or do any actions as that is where you are going wrong especially in the past situation! Help is always on hand so say “Yes thanks instead of No”. Celebrations are being planned throughout this month so enjoy and be happy!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Soul-mate is an important word so use it wisely.

VIRGO

Reconciliation is an important word that you will hear spoken this month? Having fun this month is so important not only yourself but for others too!
March see potential new contracts coming your way! Think before you sign on the dotted line! Flowers could be given to you but the message attached will be very meaning full?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Stop and think of others first and see the end results.

LIBRA

This month sees all your hard work being rewarded especially where cash is involved? Soon you will be in the correct position in life where you want to be comfortable! However, it does attract a little bit of jealously but do not be perturb about it! Communication is a must with this month. Bringing people together is something you are very good at! However, someone is planning the exact same for you?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Each and every-one of us must live by our true intentions if we are to succeed!

SCORPIO

Fresh start new beginnings are what March means to you! Happy days ahead and this is down to you becoming more relaxed so everyone reaps the benefits too! A massive opportunity connected to a contract brings with it a good connection of contacts? Invitations of all sorts play a big part this month!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Surrender those doubts and realize your journey has only just begun!!

SAGITTARIUS

March looks like it could be a very romantic time for you? When it comes to others heated arguments stay well clear as it`s not worth getting involved. The chance to pick up or learn new skills could be what you have been sharing for? North bound journeys are the one that have the fun element connection?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
Everyone has a right to their own freedom! So why allow others to take yours away?

CAPRICORN

March sees you looking forward to a lovely journey that has excellent results? Make sure you get the correct information before entering a meeting? Cash is certainly on the up plus the possibility to receive more comes in around the month of August? Take time out have a stock take of life and see where you could make improvements?

ANGEL GUIDANCE
It is our pure intention that takes us on this wonderful journey of life!

AQUARIUS

Opportunities present themselves for you this month? Plus make a wish and watch it unfold for you and your loved ones! This is a fabulous month for you when it comes to meeting new people? Always be patient and don`t try to force things to happen as that is why it could go wrong? Little gifts of thanks means a lot from the bearer as a lot of thought has gone into choosing them!

ANGEL GUIDANCE
The words new love as a wide array of meanings! Therefore, do not confuse it with relationships!

For a more in-depth reading then contact Pauline’s fabulous new premium psychic-line, Seeking Answers

Tips to writing that elusive first novel

2013-03-02T21:06:05Z

It has taken a lot of blood, sweat and Sauvignon Blanc to get where I am today, and I won’t lie in saying that getting a book to publishing standard is easy, ’cos it’s not. You have to be dedicated and allocate time whenever you can. Most importantly, your story has to be compelling. Your own life story may seem interesting to you, but unless you are in the public eye, or have something different to tell, why would anyone be interested?

I actually started writing Working it Out four years ago. Once I was happy with it, I submitted to publishers to no avail. All the comments were positive, but publishing is a business and taking on a debut author is always a risk, however good they think the book is. I had one comment from a large publisher saying they hoped it wasn’t a bit regret turning me down, I knew then the book was good enough. Encouraged by my copy editor, who edits for Milly Johnson, Jackie Collins and Emily Barr, to name but a few, I decided to publish myself.

Five weeks in I have sold several copies via my website www.nicolamay.com, Amazon.com, WH Smith and Waterstones online. I also go to Ladies who Latte meetings in the area, which have proved a big hit. It wasn’t until I got my signing at Windsor Waterstones on May 14th and this subsequent quote from Waterstones’s Carol Dixon-Smith…

Working It Out appears on the surface to be a straight forward romantic comedy, but it is awash with some very unusual, eccentric, and highly entertaining characters, and is filled to the brim with love in all its many and varying forms. Highly entertaining, surprising, hugely funny but very touching, this is the one to take on holiday with you this year. Don’t miss it!

… that I began jumping for joy. I am going to carry on marketing the book myself but am on the lookout for a major publishing deal, so watch this space.

My top 10 tips to writing a novel

Decide on a story. Mine is – Ruby has a plan. Twelve jobs in twelve months, until she find the one of her dreams….
Do a rough chapter/plot breakdown. This will alter as you begin writing, but are very useful. I do some of my best planning whilst driving or walking.
Build on memorable characters. Work on their appearances, habits, journey etc. They have to be consistent throughout the novel.
Always carry a notebook with you to capture real life sayings and experiences.
Aim to write 1000 words a day, that’s just four double spaced sides of A4. An average chick lit book is 75,000 words, so you could write your book in less than 3 months! Get up an hour earlier or write in your lunch hour, it’s amazing how much you can achieve.
Don’t edit as you go along, just get it down on that paper. Put in a drawer for a few days and go back to it, you will then make necessary changes.
Try and end each chapter with the reader wanting to know more. Everyone loves a cliff hanger.
Use your friends as ‘readers’ as you go along and tell them you want complete honesty. See how your plots twist and turn.
Show don’t tell. Readers are not stupid.
Enjoy it!