You see it everywhere, the headlines about extreme weather, the calls for more people to fight climate change and change their ways in an effort to limit global warming. But, particularly in the United States, many people don’t know much beyond surface level.
Did you know that the average American generates over 16,000 pounds of carbon dioxide every year? That’s a lot of pollution! Every time I read stats like that, I feel inspired to not only learn more about but to then share what I learned to raise awareness on the topic. So, in this blog post, we will discuss why reducing your individual carbon footprint is important for both you and the environment. We will talk about the benefits of going green and provide some tips on how you can reduce your carbon dioxide (co2) emissions. Let’s get started!
Why Is Reducing Carbon Footprint Important
What is a carbon footprint and why is it important to reduce it
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (like carbon dioxide emissions) emitted by an individual, organization, event, or product. This includes raw material extractions and production, usage, and then either recycling or disposal. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere and are one of the main drivers of climate change. The most common greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide, which is released when we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas.
Burning fossil fuels releases harmful pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide into the air, which can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and even premature death. Air pollution from burning fossil fuels is estimated to cause 7 million premature deaths each year.
Reducing our carbon footprint is essential to mitigating climate change and protecting public health. Research shows that if we reduce global emissions over the next 50 years, in line with the Paris Agreement, it would have a huge positive impact on public health, but we have to start now.
There are many ways to reduce your carbon footprint, including driving less, using public transportation, recycling, and using energy-efficient appliances. Even small changes can make a big difference when it comes to protecting our planet.
If you live in a country with a carbon tax, such as the United Kingdom, you may be able to offset some of your emissions by investing in carbon credits. You can also reduce your emissions by driving less, taking public transportation, or telecommuting.
Another way to reduce your carbon footprint is to consume less meat and dairy; livestock production results in significant greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, you can minimize your energy use by conserving resources and using energy-efficient products.
Every little bit counts when it comes to reducing your carbon footprint.
The benefits of reducing your carbon footprint
One of the primary ways individuals can help reverse global warming is by reducing their carbon footprint. Carbon emissions are released into the atmosphere when we use fossil fuels like natural gas, oil, and coal. These emissions contribute to air pollution and trapped heat, which leads to a rise in the temperature of the earth’s surface, commonly referred to as global warming. The effects of this include rising sea levels, extreme weather, and shifting seasons.
There are many reasons why you should focus on carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emission reductions.
For one, it is better for your health. Air pollution can cause a variety of respiratory problems, including asthma and bronchitis. It can also aggravate heart conditions and lead to strokes. Reducing your carbon footprint can help improve public health by improving air quality.
In addition, reducing your carbon footprint is good for the animals and the planet. Climate change is a major threat to biodiversity, as it alters habitats and changes the distribution of plants and animals. By reducing your emissions, you can help maintain plant and animal diversity.
Finally, reducing your carbon footprint can save you money. Energy-efficient appliances and green building materials often have a higher upfront cost than conventional options.
However, they typically last longer and use less energy, which can save you money in the long run. In addition, many utility companies offer rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.
As you can see, there are many reasons to reduce your carbon footprint. Every little bit counts when it comes to mitigating climate change.
How To Reduce Carbon Footprint
There are many things we can do to reduce our carbon footprint and help slow down the effects of climate change. Here are some practical tips that you can implement in your everyday life:
– Use reusable water bottles instead of disposable plastic ones.
– Walk or bike whenever possible instead of driving.
– Unplug devices when not in use to conserve energy.
– Opt for locally grown meat and produce to reduce your carbon footprint from transportation.
– Use cold water for washing clothes instead of hot water.
This consumes less energy and is just as effective.
– Drive efficiently by keeping your car well maintained, inflating your tires, and avoiding excessive idling.
– Recycle and repurpose old items instead of throwing them away.
– Add solar panels to your home or business to generate clean, renewable energy and save money on your electric bills.
We went with Volt Energy when we were choosing a provider. And if you mention my name, AJ Johnson, Volt will give a $250 cash rebate for anyone that goes solar.
– Support clean energy sources such as wind and solar power.
My parents live in Indiana and wind power surrounds them and the town I grew up in. It’s a sight to see, and every time we travel there we know we’re close to home when the wind turbines come into view!
These are just a few of the many things we can do to reduce our carbon footprint. Every individual has the power to make a difference. Together, we can slow down the effects of climate change and create a brighter future for generations to come.
Tips for going green at home
There are also numerous ways to reduce your impact on the environment and save money at the same time. Here are a few tips on how you can go green in your own home:
1. Use natural resources wisely:
Be conscious of how much water you use when cooking, cleaning, and watering plants. Turn the faucet off while brushing your teeth, and throw used water on plants instead of down the drain. Use cold water for laundry and line-dry clothes when possible. You can also save energy (and money) by making sure your home is well-insulated and using energy-efficient light bulbs.
– Switching to LED light bulbs is a great way to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. LEDs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. They also last up to 25 times longer!
– Choose energy-efficient appliances when making new purchases.
2. Reduce your carbon footprint:
One of the best ways to reduce your impact on the environment is to reduce your carbon footprint. You can do this by walking or biking instead of driving, taking public transportation, carpooling, or telecommuting. You can also offset your carbon emissions by planting trees or investing in renewable energy sources.
3. Save money:
Reducing your impact on the environment can also save you money. For example, by insulating your home, you’ll use less energy for heating and cooling, which will lower your utility bills. Using energy-efficient light bulbs will also lower your electric bill. And by carpooling or taking public transportation, you’ll save on gas money.
Going green doesn’t have to be difficult. There are many small changes you can make in your everyday life that will have a big impact on the environment. By working together, we can all do our part to create a sustainable future.
Tips for going green at work
Going green at work can seem like a daunting task, but there are several small changes that can make a difference. Here are five tips to get you started:
1. Pack a lunch:
Brown-bagging not only saves money but also reduces waste. If you do eat out, look for restaurants that use recyclable or compostable containers.
2. Ditch the disposables:
Say goodbye to paper coffee cups and plastic water bottles. Invest in a reusable mug and water bottle and keep them at your desk.
3. Go digital:
Whenever possible, opt for electronic communications over paper. This includes everything from sending emails instead of letters to using digital files instead of paper ones.
4. Think before you print:
Do you really need to print that document? If not, save it electronically. If you do need to print it, make sure to print it on the blank side of a recycled paper or print it front and back to use both sides of the page.
5. Recycle:
Recycling seems like a no-brainer, but many office buildings don’t have adequate recycling facilities. If yours is one of them, talk to your boss about setting up a system. Alternatively, see if there’s a local recycling program you can participate in.
These are just a few of the many ways you can make your workplace more sustainable. By working together, we can all do our part to reduce our impact on the environment.
Tips for going green when you travel
As more people become aware of the need to protect the environment, they are looking for ways to reduce their impact when they travel. Here are a few simple tips that can help you travel more sustainably:
1. Pick up trash if you see it.
Grab any litter that you see, whether it’s discarded wrappers or cigarette butts, and either dispose of it properly or recycle it. Not only will you be doing your part to keep places clean, but you’ll also be preventing litter from entering the environment and harming wildlife.
2. Avoid single-use plastics.
Bring along a reusable water bottle and coffee mug, and say no to straws and plastic bags.
3. Choose eco-friendly accommodation.
Look for hotels that have implemented energy-saving measures, use environmentally friendly cleaning products, and offer amenities such as recycling facilities.
4. Offset your carbon footprint.
When booking your flight, look for airlines that offer carbon-offsetting programs. You can also offset your carbon footprint by taking public transportation or renting bicycles when you’re exploring a new place.
How can you reduce your carb footprint when choosing food?
There are also several eco-friendly food options you can choose to further reduce your carbon footprint.
First off, aim to eat a diet that’s primarily made up of plant-based foods. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from the methane and nitrous oxide produced by livestock.
Also, buy locally-grown produce when possible, as this reduces the emissions associated with transporting food long distances.
Lastly, try to reduce your food waste by planning your meals ahead of time and only buying what you know you’ll eat. Food waste that ends up in landfills contributes to the production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
How does deleting emails reduce carbon footprint?
Yes, even deleting emails can help minimize your carbon footprint.
How? Well, every email you send or receive is stored on a server somewhere. These servers consume energy and therefore produce greenhouse gases.
By deleting unneeded emails, you’re helping to reduce the amount of data needing to be stored on these servers. Of course, there are bigger actions we can take to reduce our carbon footprints, but every little bit counts!
Step Up, Make a Difference! Shrink Your Carbon Footprint Today!
By following these tips, you can minimize your impact on the environment and help to preserve our planet for future generations.
Reducing your carbon footprint is important for many reasons. It’s not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money and make your workplace more sustainable. There are many small changes you can make in your everyday life to reduce your impact on the planet, and we hope these tips have given you some ideas of how to get started.
As I walk into a bustling thrift store, surrounded by racks filled with unique clothing and shelves adorned with quirky knick-knacks, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement. The rise of mainstream media has undoubtedly made thrifting hip and trendy, but the truth is, buying second hand has been practiced for many years. In this blog post, I want to share my thoughts and experiences on the benefits of shopping second hand, debunking the misconception that it’s solely for those on a tight budget. Let’s delve into the reasons why buying second hand not only benefits you but also contributes positively to the environment.
9 Reasons To Shop Second Hand
1. Higher-Quality Items for a Cheaper Price:
Underneath the charm of mainstream fashion, there lies a market that thrives on high prices and fast fashion trends. When buying secondhand clothing, you have the opportunity to find well-crafted, high-quality items at a fraction of their original cost. Clothing and goods that have stood the test of time often possess superior durability and craftsmanship thanks to high-quality materials, allowing you to build a wardrobe or furnish your home with items that will last. If you prefer to shop second hand whenever, you need to get the ShopShops app: https://shopshops.info/r/yn
2. Decreasing Carbon Footprint:
The fashion industry is notorious for its impact on the environment. By embracing secondhand shopping, you actively participate in reducing carbon emissions and textile waste, which means you’re reducing the number of clothes that ultimately pile up in landfills. The circular economy model is at play here, where unwanted clothes and goods are given a new lease on life, eliminating the need for additional production and its associated environmental consequences.
3. Saving Resources and Decreasing Environmental Pollution:
In line with reducing carbon emissions, shopping second hand also helps conserve valuable resources. When we buy pre-loved items, we diminish the demand for new production, which saves water, energy, and raw materials. Furthermore, secondhand shopping minimizes environmental pollution caused by the extraction, manufacturing, and transportation processes involved in producing new goods.
4. Encouraging Community Building:
Thrifting is not just about scoring unique finds; it also fosters a sense of community. Local charity shops, thrift stores, and consignment shops often function as meeting places where like-minded individuals come together, exchanging stories and tips on the best finds. Supporting these mom-and-pop establishments helps create stronger, more vibrant communities.
5. Discovering Your Style:
Shopping for second-hand clothes presents an opportunity for self-expression. With an abundance of diverse and unique items, you can experiment with different styles, mix and match, and create a wardrobe that reflects your individuality. Embracing secondhand fashion encourages creativity and allows you to cultivate a style that stands out from the mainstream.
6. Supporting Small Businesses:
While the rise of e-commerce giants has dominated the retail landscape, shopping secondhand gives you a chance to support local businesses. Many thrift stores and consignment shops are independently owned and operated, providing a platform for small businesses to thrive. By buying secondhand, you contribute to the growth and sustainability of these local enterprises.
7. Finding Unique Items:
If you’re tired of the homogeneity of mass-produced goods, secondhand shopping is your answer. From vintage clothing to one-of-a-kind home decor pieces, the world of secondhand offers a treasure trove of unique finds that cannot be replicated by mass-market retailers. Unearth hidden gems and add a touch of individuality to your life.
8. Changing Your Perspective in Life:
Adopting a secondhand shopping mindset extends beyond material possessions. It encourages a shift in perspective, prompting us to reevaluate our consumption habits. By buying secondhand, we challenge the notion that constant acquisition is the path to happiness. It allows us to focus on things that truly matter, such as experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
If you are looking for authentic luxury goods to buy preloved or second hand, you must check out the ShopShops app and download to get the best prices and shop with confidence knowing they are authentic: https://shopshopslive.com
9. Having Fun
Last, but certainly not least, shopping for secondhand clothing is fun! It’s different than shopping anywhere else because you truly don’t know what to expect every time you walk through the doors of a secondhand store, even if you’ve been there before. And many of them are so full of merchandise that browsing feels like an actual treasure hunt. Add in the fun of finding over-the-top oddities and you have a guaranteed good time!
Tips For Shopping Secondhand Fashion
Set Your Budget
Despite the lower prices, the cost of secondhand clothing can add up quickly if you’re not careful. It’s important to know your budget before you walk through the doors. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Once you hit your limit, head to checkout. Otherwise you’ll be tempted to overspend and end up regretting it later on.
Try Everything On
It can be tempting to buy something that catches your eye simply because of the low price. But as you might already know, sizes fit differently from one brand to the next. Before you hand over your hard-earned cash for an item, try it on. This way you’ll know it fits and you like the way it looks on you.
Check The Price Online
It’s always exciting to find highly sought-after pieces, but you still want to make sure you’re paying a reasonable price for them. This is especially important for any gently-used name-brand or designer items you find. You want to make sure the second-hand stores you’re shopping at price their items fairly. Pull out your phone and do a quick Google search for the item to determine its retail price.
When we buy secondhand, we unlock a world of benefits that go beyond financial savings. It’s a conscious choice that contributes to the environment, supports local businesses, and to embrace our unique style. From saving money to reducing carbon emissions, shopping second hand aligns with the principles of sustainability and responsible consumerism. So, the next time you embark on a shopping adventure, consider stepping into a thrift store, charity shop, or consignment shop. Explore the world of secondhand treasures and make a positive impact while finding items that bring joy and character into your life. Embrace the beauty of buying second hand and join the movement towards a more eco-friendly and mindful way of shopping.
Do you feel like your life isn’t as good as it can be? We all want to live a fulfilling and meaningful life; a life that we can look back on and be proud of. If you feel like you’re falling short of living your best life, don’t worry — you can start today! It’s never too late to start living the life you want. If you’re ready to live your best life but you’re not sure how to start, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m sharing tips for improving your life and making tomorrow better than yesterday.
Everyone deserves to live their best life, and there’s no time like the present to get started. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get into it!
How To Live Your Best Life Now
Make a list of things you want to change about your life
Are you feeling a bit uninspired by your daily routine? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people go through the motions, day after day, week after week, without really living each day to the fullest. But remember, it’s never too late to make a change! Starting with your daily habits, you can work toward creating a dream life that’s filled with good health, positivity, and meaningful purpose. Identify any bad habits that are holding you back and replace them with healthy ones that support your goals. Small changes in your daily life can have a big impact on you overall quality of life. If you’re ready for a change, here are some tips to help you live your best life now:
Finding your purpose.
Figuring out what makes your heart sing is like finding the perfect playlist for your soul. So, take a moment to tap into your passions and think about what gets you excited to jump out of bed in the morning. Once you’ve got that fire burning, you’ll be amazed at how it fuels you to take steps toward creating a life that’s filled with purpose and joy. It’s time to ditch those snooze-worthy routines and make room for the things that truly light you up!
Prioritizing health.
Taking care of your mind and body is super important, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Your physical and mental health should be a top priority. Making small changes like eating more nutritious food, moving your body regularly, and getting enough rest can go a long way in helping you feel your best. Plus, when you feel good physically, you have mental capacity to tackle anything that comes your way!
Aiming for constant growth.
When it comes to personal growth, the key is to never stop learning and pushing yourself. It’s an ongoing process, so always be striving to learn and improve. Read books, take classes, and challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone regularly. By continuously growing and evolving, you’re adding value and meaning to your life. Trust me, the more you grow and evolve, the richer your life’s gonna be!
Figuring out your finances.
Let’s talk about money, because let’s face it, it’s a necessary evil. But here’s the thing, to avoid stressful money woes and embrace financial security, you have to get a grip on your finances. Start by making a budget (trust me, it’s not as boring as it sounds), save up money to help you reach your goals, and consider investing in your future. With these simple steps, you’ll be one step closer to taking charge of your financial journey.
Serving others.
Want to know a super simple way to boost your mood? Help others! Yup, it’s true. Whether you’re volunteering, donating to a cause you’re passionate about, or just being there for your loved ones, giving back is a surefire way to feel good and add meaning to your life. Plus, you never know what good things might come your way when you do.
Practicing Gratitude.
Here’s a little secret to boost your happiness – take a moment each day to appreciate the good stuff in life. A simple but powerful way to improve your life is to focus on the things you’re grateful for. Yup, just a few minutes of reflecting on the things that make you happy and grateful can dramatically shift your mindset to a more positive place. A positive mindset is essential to overall happiness.
Exercising More.
You know what they say, “Exercise not only gives you a rockin’ bod, but it also gives your brain a happy boost!” Exercise is not only good for your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being. When you get active, your body releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. So get out there and start moving!
Break down changes into smaller, more manageable goals
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget about taking time for yourself. But if you want to live your best life, it’s important to set aside time each day to do things that make you happy.
This doesn’t mean making a bunch of big changes all at once; instead, focus on taking small steps that will help bring you closer to your goals. For example, if you want to travel more, start by taking a weekend trip. If you want to eat healthier, add more fruits and vegetables to your next meal. Maybe you want to spend more time with friends and family; call them now and plan a get-together. And if you want to spend less time staring at screens and on social media (they really do drain your energy), put away your phone and take a nature walk.
Remember, even the smallest step forward is still a step in the right direction. Changes, no matter how small they might seem, can make a big difference in your life overall. So don’t wait; start living your best life now!
Create a plan of action to achieve those goals
To start living your best life now and achieve all of the goals you have set for yourself, you need to create a plan of action.
This can involve identifying what activities and habits are holding you back from reaching your full potential, as well as identifying steps you can take to begin living the life you want to live. For example, one key step might be finding more free time for yourself, whether by quitting a toxic job or establishing better sleep habits.
Additionally, focusing on personal growth through activities like learning a new skill or taking up a new hobby can help to boost your confidence and prepare you for success. Ultimately, the key to living your best life now is to start making small changes today that will lead you down the path toward a brighter tomorrow.
Stick to the plan and don’t give up
If you want to live your best life now and achieve all of your goals, it’s important to stick to a plan and not give up. Whether you’re setting daily goals or striving towards your ultimate dream, staying focused is crucial for success.
Despite the inevitable stress and anxiety that can come with any goal-driven lifestyle, it’s important to remember that every setback is an opportunity for growth. Take risks, step out of your comfort zone, and learn to be resilient in the face of difficulty. This way you can navigate the ups and downs of life more confidently and eventually reach new heights.
If you’re looking to live your best life now rather than tomorrow, the key is to stay focused on your goals while also taking time to enjoy all of the wonderful things that make life worth living – from spending time with family and friends to getting lost in a good book or savoring a cup of coffee in your favorite cozy spot. After all, happiness is found not in chasing dreams but in enjoying each moment along the way!
Celebrate your accomplishments along the way
One of the best ways to set yourself up for a successful and fulfilling life is to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Whether it’s landing a new job, donating time or money to charity, or simply trying something new, it’s important to recognize and acknowledge all of the moments along your journey that show you’re doing well. This can help you stay motivated and inspired to continue working toward your goals. It can also help keep you grounded in the present moment, enjoying all of the small joys that life has to offer.
So, whether it’s big or small, always take some time to celebrate your successes. After all, they are what pave the way towards living your best life now!
Repeat as necessary
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. And that’s especially true when it comes to making positive changes in your life. Just like you can’t expect to become a master chef overnight, you can’t expect to completely transform your life after just one go. Change is a process, and it takes time, effort, and repetition to make lasting changes. That’s why one of the best ways to live your best life now is to start small and focus on one change at a time.
Once you’ve mastered that change, you can move on to the next one. And with each change you make, you’ll be one step closer to living your best life. So don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately – just keep going and repeating those positive changes until they become second nature. And before you know it, you’ll be living your best life now.
Y’all, I’m the first to admit that anytime someone tells me they used x,y,z site for getting this or that done more efficiently, I will head straight there to check it out. I have to know for myself! Yet, I don’t ever take the time to actually use and learn it because I’m onto the next best thing someone else recommended. And then my list of things to do, like this blog post, end up getting lost in the shuffle. It’s who I am and I’m doing my best to own it and change. If you are like me or maybe not as easily distracted as me, here are a few tips we can all use to help avoid online distractions.
How to Avoid Online Distractions
Many people are still working full time and schooling from home, but unlike in 2020, when everyone was getting so much more done and had more time on their hands than ever, most of us are back to the daily grind. We no longer have unlimited time to explore and discover new things online. We also don’t have to frequently check social, and news feeds to stay in-the-know. But if you’re like me, this habit isn’t one that you can quickly and easily break. Whether it’s part-time or full-time, many of us are still working from home. Here are a few of my tips to avoid online distractions so you can keep your productivity and focus on what you need to do.
Identifying Your Distractions
Let’s start with the most challenging part in eliminating your distractions, and it’s identifying what they are. When you try to work, take note of the things and ideas that keep your focus away. Is it a Facebook group discussion, sale online, an abandoned online shopping cart, or trending Twitter topics? Whatever it is, please write it down, and once done, look at your list and evaluate how to reduce or eliminate them.
Disable Notifications while Working or Studying
Pings and buzzes from notifications can easily distract you. There are ways to minimize their effect on your productivity. Silence the unnecessary notifications to stay focused during work or study time. If it is on your phone, disable it before you start to work, the same with computers and other gadgets—close distracting websites. One of the most distracting notifications comes from messenger apps and phone calls. It’s better to turn it off in the meantime or hide it somewhere far from your work area.
Set a Time Cap for Online Sessions
Take screen breaks. To increase productivity and avoid feeling burnout, create a balance between your online sessions and taking breaks. Destressing is essential but make sure that you are within a specific schedule. Perhaps, set it to a specific time, maybe 20 minutes for every hour work time. Spend it to stretch, grab a snack, drink coffee, or dance with your pups or kids.
Don’t go beyond the time you spend on breaks. Return immediately to your work to keep your routine on track and to keep you efficient.
Ask a Friend to Keep You Accountable
Seek accountability by asking someone to help you fight online distractions. It could be a friend, a sibling, or a roommate. Let them keep your phone while you’re working, or create a co-working area where you hold each other accountable to finish your work. Another way is also doing it online through a video call. You can study or work together while on Zoom. Just make sure to be true to your accountability goals.
Setting Aside Time for Answering and Reading Emails
Find ways to manage the time you spend answering and reading emails. How? Turn off email notifications. Allot time to clear up your inbox. A well-categorized inbox can lessen the time you spend scrolling through it. Organize and use folders for this. Use automated filtering. Lastly, set a specific number of minutes, and schedule an hour in a day when you can do an email task. So, create an email system that works best with your work schedule.
Changing your Workplace
If noise-canceling headphones are not working for you, relocate to another area conducive for working. Your workplace is a huge factor in your focus level. It covers inevitable external distractions like interruptions from other employees or your family. Studying or catching up on work in a coffee shop might sound like a good idea, but for many people it’s an environment that makes it difficult to manage distractions. Keep your door closed, clear the clutter before you start working or studying, and evaluate how your existing workplace affects your productivity. If you are still struggling, make sure to check out this blog I wrote to help you limit distractions when working from home.
Using Anti-Distraction Apps
While the worldwide web is a place to work, it’s also where significant distractions come from. There’s just a certain allure to current socializing technology like our favorite social media platforms, games, and many more. So, one of the best ways to combat online distraction is to use another technology against it. Build discipline with the help of anti-distraction apps that keep you stay on track. These apps will hopefully help you build a better routine.
How To Avoid Distractions During Online Classes
Turn Off Your Phone
If you’re like a lot of college students (or students of any age, really) who easily get distracted during online learning, silencing your phone or turning off notifications isn’t enough to avoid distractions. Instead, turn off your phone. This will make it easier to focus on the task at hand.
You can take it one step further and leave your phone where it’s out of reach. Out of sight, out of mind, right? This, a lot of times, works for people who struggle with paying attention when their phone is accessible, even if it’s turned off. You might even consider having one of your family members hold onto it for a specific period of time.
Take Frequent Breaks
No matter how well you’re able to concentrate on a task, it’s only a matter of time until it becomes hard to stay focused. Stay ahead of these dips in productivity by taking breaks. Your brain needs to rest, too! Research shows that even a short diversion can significantly improve focus
Best Anti Distraction Apps
Here are some of the focus apps that surely help to avoid getting distracted. These are tools that give options as far as distraction blocking apps is concerned:
Works on all your devices at the same time, so you can block your computer and phone and iPad all at the same time and not be distracted by a different device. Minimal cost of $9/month for all devices or you can choose yearly for about $3.50/month. (Personally this is what I use)
The Pro version is a one time purchase of $39 and you have it forever. Impossible to get out of the blocker once you start until the time is seen through or specific task is complete.
Free browser extension but it is only available for Firefox, so if you want to use other browsers to distract, you can do so.
Hopefully this helps you free yourself from the digital distractions we all find ourselves getting into, and you find on of the anti distraction options helps you become more productive. Afterall, we all have the same hours in the day, and it’s important you make the best use of the most valuable resource – time.
Social media has changed our lives in many ways, many of which are beyond our imagination. It affects our buying habits and purchase decisions. Over time, it has also evolved into a new kind of marketing. Nowadays, it’s all about digital marketing or, more specifically, influencer marketing. And this modernized version of digital marketing is remarkably effective.
Quality content is king, or so they say, and the use of it by social media influencers to influence the public is growing by leaps and bounds. But who are these influencers anyway? An influencer can be a social media personality, celebrity, blogger, or industry expert. Social media is a platform that influencers utilize to increase their reach and their influence. By uploading content, both sponsored and not, on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, Snapchat, and many more emerging platforms, these influencers can establish authority and authenticity.
Influencers have become useful tools in the marketing strategies of business owners. Although we typically see influencers marketing for small and medium businesses, large, big-name businesses have been known to use influencers as well.
Influencer marketing is considered a combination of traditional and modern marketing strategies. A particular celebrity or personality endorses a product or a service using online or modern-day marketing campaigns. This unique type of online marketing creates a mutually beneficial relationship for influencers and brands. For example, a beauty cosmetics blogger with millions of followers tagging a startup lipstick company in a review of their lipsticks creates traction for the business while the influencer benefits from free lipstick.
A 2019 influencer marketing report by MediaKix claimed that 17% of companies allot more than half of their marketing budget to influencer marketing campaigns and that it grows by 5000% each month. Even more astounding, approximately 92% of marketers believe that influencer marketing is the most effective kind at the moment!
Businesses work with influencers to improve their brand recognition. In this day and digital age, it’s crucial to build a successful relationship with at least one influencer because of the sheer number of people on social media. With massive amounts of followers, influencers are considered to have the power, knowledge, and position that affects the decisions of their audience. And their followers care about the opinion of influencers. This dynamic is what drew brands to influencers to begin with. Plus, once a long-term partnership is developed, brands often begin considering the creative ideas of influencers regarding how they incorporate the brand in their content. However, brands can’t fully impose their marketing strategies if it’s not aligned with the branding of the influencers.
To develop and maintain a good reputation, your brand needs to build a good relationship with influencers. News travels fast, and it’s all about content and branding these days. So, how do you go about it? Where do you start? Based on my experiences, I’m sharing insider tips on how to build relationships with influencers. Let’s get into it.
How to Build Relationships with Influencers
Whether it’s a short-term or long-term collaboration, setting a good relationship with influencers can help you gain more benefits like authentic endorsements, sustainable brand recognition, and consistent market user engagement. Here are the tips that will help you build relationships with influencers.
Identify Influencers in Your Industry
To get to your target audience, you have to know how to find the best people to help you build brand awareness. In looking for influencers in your industry, consider the following steps:
Specify your branding objective. Outline what you want to establish through brand awareness and brand identity.
Know your marketing objective. Set an influencer marketing plan that specifies the type of campaign you want to focus on. is it sponsored content, affiliates, brand ambassadors, or gifting.
Research who is famous in your niche. Use keywords, hashtags, and industry-related terms to know who is getting engagement in your industry.
Research Influencers Your Competitors Collaborate With. Find out who is helping your rivals make traction in their online presence and note their strategies.
Consider the Influencer’s Authority. Look at the quality of their content. Does it get a lot of engagement, followers, and higher website rank?
Provide Value to Your Influencers
Just like any other relationship, the brand-influencer kind takes two to tango. Brands shouldn’t only focus on their gains. You should make sure that the influencer will get good value out of your collaboration too.
A good strategy example is offering giveaways to the influencer and their audience. Always consider their audience. Giveaways and contests are win-win marketing for you and the influencer who will boost their followers and engagements.
Provide them with great exposure. If you have other marketing platforms like newsletters or blogs, feature them to create new fans.
Create online events that highlight the brand and the influencer, whether they’re macro or micro-influencers. This tactic also helps them get more awareness and brand identity.
Following All Social Media Profiles of Your Influencers
By following their social media profiles, you show support, which helps them strengthen their credibility. It’s also easier to tag them when you follow them.
Treating Your Influencers as Collaborators
As a collaborator, allow influencers to give marketing input. Let them have their creative freedom. In addition, they have insights into what your target audience wants and need. Communicate with them with a personal message.
Provide Appropriate Compensation
To foster long-term relationships with influencers, you have to remember that you’re both building your brands. So, provide compensation that aligns with both your branding. It can be cash, personal exposure, or experience. If you’re a travel and hospitality brand, then you can offer free travel to influencers.
Sharing Your Influencers’ Content
It’s a give-and-take relationship. So, share influencer posts with your network. They’ll appreciate it and most likely respond positively to our requests.
You, as a brand, and the influencers, have a term partnership. It would be best if you approach influencers as a collaborator. It is not an employer-employee relationship. Create opportunities to connect with them on the creative side and make sure that those are mutually beneficial. It’s your mutual goals that are the core of how you build relationships with influencers.
As each new season approaches, it’s important to take a look at what you wear most often, what can carry over into the next season, and what may no longer work for you. That’s why I thought it was important today to talk about a few must-have summer essentials for women!
I prefer to have a few capsule items that work for all seasons, which I keep in rotation and have a few different variations to work with.
Also – summer for me may be a bit different or longer then where you live, because Arizona starts to get summer temps around May and doesn’t end until about October or November.
Another thing to note, my wardrobe essentials sometimes blend together because it’s so hot outside and the air conditioners are so cold inside, that it’s necessary to have a summer uniform with a sweater from winter.
Summer Essentials for Women
I keep it light, bright, and airy! And sometimes mix in some saturated colors to give a little variety.
Most summer days, you can find me in a white t shirt, a tank top, denim shorts, rompers/jumpsuits, skirts, or a maxi dress with a slit to allow for air flow!
For nights and the indoors with cool air conditioning, I keep a denim jacket or lightweight cardigan or kimono handy. Sometimes you can sneak in a pair of white jeans with ballet flats or heel sandals and stay cool.
And when I’m outside or around the pool, it’s a straw hat because I’ve done enough damage to my skin!
Because the kiddos are home in the summer, and have swim lessons at least once a week, while still maintaining all of our other activities a hat is necessary. On the note of swim lessons, a crossbody bag is a staple to carry everything. With super hot temps, my wardrobe essentials are usually on repeat weekly!
– I probably own about 5 of the same white t shirt because it transitions so well and is lightweight.
A white tee is so easy to pair with so many things, and can be taken from morning to night. My favorite way to wear a white tee is with a pair of skinny jeans and ballet flats. These are summer wardrobe staples for me.
– The next thing I always stock up on are easy graphic tanks and tees.
They are good layering pieces when it’s time to put on a sweater or denim jacket but stand alone as a casual outfit option. I love these for summer fashion but also to cross over from spring into fall.
– Air conditioning is no joke when temps are over 100 outside so having a good jean jacket, kimono, or lightweight cardigan are a must!
Here is a post with some of my favorites!
– I don’t have a ton of denim shorts. But the ones I do have are on repeat!
I like to have a distressed pair for casual outfits and then a rolled pair for a dressy outfit. I recently got this pair of white denim jean shorts I’m in love with!
– A small variation of shorts I wear so often is bike shorts.
They have become super popular this year and you can buy them in just about every color of the rainbow. I did a whole blog post on them for you to check out my favorites here. These are so perfect and ideal for summer style but also work well from spring into fall with a sweater.
– Skirts are high on the list, right along with shorts.
They allow a quick, effortless outfit that can be dressed up or down, and usually transition well into the other seasons. I either do an above the knee fit or a maxi skirt that has a slit or can be tied to ensure airflow happens! Check out some of my faves here.
– I’m so glad jumpsuits and rompers have made a comeback from the 90’s!
As a kid, and for my girls, they were the easiest outfit to throw on and go out the door. If I’m being honest, I sometimes find it hard to fit into a jumpsuit or romper properly these days because I am not the same size in tops and bottoms. Typically, I’m a Small or oversized Medium in tops and a tight Medium or Large in bottoms. That doesn’t stop my hunt for some of my favorite jumpsuits and rompers though! Keep reading to see some of my favorites!
– The most popular outfit I probably wear is a dress if I’m being honest.
Dresses are the absolute easiest outfit for summer, I think. My youngest, Finlee, is obsessed with dresses so much so that I don’t know why I have shorts or tee shirts for her 🙁 Dresses on their own are an outfit, but also can be layered with a denim jacket or a cardigan so easily! A shirt dress is one example that I wear a different variation of each week. Make sure to check out my post here on all of my favorite summer dresses.
– We all know I love my fair share of sneakers (peep that blog post here) but sandals are a close second in my eyes for summer.
Wedges and strappy heels have also been known to make quite an appearance because they do take an outfit up the extra notch. When I’m on the go doing Mom life or managing our rental properties, sandals and flats are necessary!
– Because I’m on the go so often with the kids, it’s important I have a bag that carries everything!
When we travel, I use a carryall tote that usually ends up more full with the girls’ things than my own. Same for summer.
The most important part of a summer wardrobe is being able to mix and match the pieces together. Because there’s such a drastic change from inside to outside, or when you travel to a different climate than you are used to, making sure you have a versatile wardrobe is important. Here are a few style tips for you to choose from or draw inspiration for your own summer wardrobe.
Summer Outfit Ideas
Casual Flower Skirt Outfit
I love embodying the spirit of casual summer with my effortlessly chic floral-print skirt and gray tank top combination. The lightweight fabric ensures I stay comfortable even when the summer heat is at its peak. For a stylish touch on cooler evenings, I throw on a blue denim jacket to elevate my ensemble and provide an extra layer of warmth.
Tie-dye Dress Outfit
:This summer, I’m embracing my bold side with my vibrant and colorful tie-dye dress, rather than a classic white dress. This tie-dye dress is a key piece in my summer capsule wardrobe. The eye-catching pattern and lightweight material make it the perfect choice for outdoor festivals, lively parties, or simply soaking up the sun. I can’t wait to showcase my unique style and flair with this stunning dress.
Pink Beach Outfit
I’ve often reveled in the warmth of summer with my vibrant pink beach outfit. It features a large pink t-shirt, sun hat, and stylish flip flops. The cheerful color and airy fabrics keep me cool and fashionable as I enjoy long summer days by the shore.
Geometric Pattern Blue Bodysuit Outfit
Every time I wear this geometric pattern blue bodysuit I’ve turned heads! It’s perfect for poolside lounging or a fun night out. The unique design and flattering fit make it a chic and comfortable option for any summer occasion. Complete the look with a pair of white sneakers or a straw bag for added style and flair.
Striped Romper Outfit
The versatile striped romper is a must-have addition to my summer wardrobe essentials. Its easy-to-wear design and breathable summer clothing material make it ideal for beach trips, backyard barbecues, or casual outings. I accentuate the look with a cozy red cardigan, adding a pop of color and warmth on those cooler summer nights.
What is your favorite summer outfit idea or staple? What is your favorite outfit or look? I’d love to know if I left something out so please let me know if I’m missing out on something!
individual, organization, event, or product. This includes raw material extractions and production, usage, and then either recycling or disposal. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere and are one of the main drivers of climate change. The most common greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide, which is released when we burn fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas.
Carbon emissions are released into the atmosphere when we use fossil fuels like natural gas, oil, and coal. These emissions contribute to air pollution and trapped heat, which leads to a rise in the temperature of the earth’s surface, commonly referred to as global warming. The effects of this include rising sea levels, extreme weather, and shifting seasons.
change. Here are some practical tips that you can implement in your everyday life:
LEDs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. They also last up to 25 times longer!
restaurants that use recyclable or compostable containers.
secondhand clothing, you have the opportunity to find well-crafted, high-quality items at a fraction of their original cost. Clothing and goods that have stood the test of time often possess superior durability and craftsmanship thanks to high-quality materials, allowing you to build a wardrobe or furnish your home with items that will last. If you prefer to shop second hand whenever, you need to get the ShopShops app: 
as meeting places where like-minded individuals come together, exchanging stories and tips on the best finds. Supporting these mom-and-pop establishments helps create stronger, more vibrant communities.
decor pieces, the world of secondhand offers a treasure trove of unique finds that cannot be replicated by mass-market retailers. Unearth hidden gems and add a touch of individuality to your life.
Figuring out what makes your heart sing is like finding the perfect playlist for your soul. So, take a moment to tap into your passions and think about what gets you excited to jump out of bed in the morning. Once you’ve got that fire burning, you’ll be amazed at how it fuels you to take steps toward creating a life that’s filled with purpose and joy. It’s time to ditch those snooze-worthy routines and make room for the things that truly light you up!
To start living your best life now and achieve all of the goals you have set for yourself, you need to create a plan of action.
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. And that’s especially true when it comes to making positive changes in your life. Just like you can’t expect to become a master chef overnight, you can’t expect to completely transform your life after just one go. Change is a process, and it takes time, effort, and repetition to make lasting changes. That’s why one of the best ways to live your best life now is to start small and focus on one change at a time.
work, take note of the things and ideas that keep your focus away. Is it a Facebook group discussion, sale online, an abandoned online shopping cart, or trending Twitter topics? Whatever it is, please write it down, and once done, look at your list and evaluate 
taking breaks. Destressing is essential but make sure that you are within a specific schedule. Perhaps, set it to a specific time, maybe 20 minutes for every hour work time. Spend it to stretch, grab a snack, drink coffee, or dance with your pups or kids. 
Recent Comments