As it’s a new month in May, one of the most powerful months out of the entire year for bringing your wishes to fruition, I set a few goals for myself like every month.
The first goal that I had was to bring in a few extra dollars a day for our new home purchase.
We are closing on our first home together as a family on the 23rd of this month, and I’d be lying if I didn’t say that it will take a LOT of sweat equity as well as many dollar bills. It’s going to be quite the transformation when it’s done. I also know that there is the possibility we could flip this house and get something else if we wanted. So I’m not trying to get too attached right now. I also don’t want to put us in more of a hole with the necessary repairs and the way I want to make the house look to my taste (Hubs and I are having a hard time agreeing on a specific style already).
I also would like to take as little from our current place if we don’t love it thus saving more money with less storage and moving expenses. And some of the things I don’t love.
Power Of Intention
So when I sat down to look at some of the areas I could cut, there were some memberships that I’ve been on the fence about keeping and I could see those going away. I didn’t do anything with them just yet, but I received an email letting me know that my membership was canceled, but I was charged today….. So I’m going to either get my money back or get to participate for another month.
But, the magic behind the thought above. I set out to cancel it in the future, and it was canceled today without any doing of my own.
Think about that for a second.
The Power of Your Thoughts
This could either have a return of money to me or an additional month of membership added for me, but there are also things we think about that are bad. Those come into our reality as well. Make sure you are watching your thoughts because you are a powerful creator, and the Universe doesn’t know good or bad what you want. It brings you everything you think and says, so make sure to keep your vibes high!
The next goal I had was to write each day of May at least 250-500 words to get my content up and created. I read in a book recently that no matter what, if you write something every day, it will make it easier to get something on paper when you need it. So here’s my start and a few things for you to think about as well.
What do you want more of in your life? Money, love, happiness, success? All of these things and more can be yours when you learn to harness the power of intention. The intention is the act of setting a goal and then putting all of your focus and energy toward achieving that goal. When you do this, the universe will conspire in your favor and help you to achieve your desires. In this blog post, we will discuss the power of intention and how you can use it to create the life you desire!
Having intentions is important for several reasons.
First, it helps to focus your attention and energy on what you want to achieve. Dr. Wayne Dyer, the author of The Power of Intention, compares the field of energy that surrounds us to a GPS. When we set our intention, we are telling the universe where we want to go. Just as a GPS won’t work if we don’t input a destination, the universe won’t be able to guide us if we don’t have a clear intention. Second, setting an intention can help to improve the quality of our lives. When we focus on what we want, rather than what we don’t want, we are more likely to attract positive experiences and opportunities into our lives.
Any action begins with intention.
What we intend is what we attract into our lives. If we want to live a creative, kind, loving, and beautiful life, we must first be creative in our thoughts and Intentions. The law of attraction states that like attracts like. When we focus on positive things, we attract more positive things into our lives. On the other hand, if we dwell on negative thoughts, we will attract more negativity. Therefore, it is important to be intentional about our thoughts and emotions if we want to live a beautiful, abundant, and receptive life. One way to do this is to monitor our self-talk and make sure it is compassionate and kind. Another way is to focus on what we are grateful for each day. When we take the time to intentionally focus on it grows.
Setting an intention is the first step on the spiritual path.
It is a powerful way to connect with your higher self and the universal mind. There are many faces of intention: from choosing to be kinder to yourself to set a goal to become more spiritual. Whatever form it takes, setting an intention is a way of affirming your desire to grow and evolve. When you set an intention, you are opening yourself up to limitless possibilities. It is a declaration of your willingness to grow and change. As you begin to align your actions with your intention, you will start to see miraculous changes in your life. You will feel more connected to your higher purpose and supported by the universe. The power of intention is limitless; it is the starting point.
Power of Intention Quotes
Intention is all about focusing your mind on something specific to make it happen. It’s not just for spiritual folks – it can help anyone in their daily life. The more you practice intentional thinking, the better you get at making your intentions a reality. It can help you create positive changes, attract abundance, and live your life with purpose, inner peace, and gratitude.
“The Power of Intention” by internationally renowned author, Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, has some inspiring quotes that can motivate you to believe in yourself, manifest your dreams, and live in the moment. Remember, you’re not alone in setting your intentions and reaching your goals – there are plenty of people ready to support you.
If you want to start setting intentions, begin by setting specific and achievable goals and focusing your thoughts and actions on them. Stay positive and grateful, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. With practice, intention can become a natural and effective part of your daily routine, helping you to create the life you want.
No matter what you want to achieve in life, setting an intention is the first step.
Give it a try, what have you got to lose?
And PS – if you don’t think you have time, this post took all but 15 minutes, and I even sent an email in between and helped my sweet 7-year-old with something. You can do it too.
When it comes to clutter, your home is not the only place where you can find it. When you are juggling between life and work, or when you work like a robot at home, you are bound to accumulate mental clutter. Mental clutter refers to all that stuff going on inside your head.
How do you know you have mental clutter? Well, you would be stressed, you would be anxious, you would be exhausted. In short, life would seem unbearable to you. I know the feeling and I’m here to help!
However, quitting your job or running away to the mountains long term might not be the best alternative for everyone. What you can do is start decluttering your mind.
How? Just swear by these 10 routines, and you’d be good to go. But first, let’s go over some common causes of mental clutter.
How To Declutter Your Mind
Causes of Mental Clutter
There are many factors that can come into play when it comes to the build-up of brain clutter. To name just a few, anxiety/depression, physical and mental stress, ADHD, mom life, a new job, a new relationship, a new baby, procrastination, bad habits, and leading a generally unhealthy life can all lead to mental clutter. Especially if you are experiencing more than one of these factors at once. All of this can make our minds feel so crazy, so remember throughout all of this, you’re not alone.
Routines to Clear Your Mental Clutter
Here are 10 routines to clear your mental clutter:
1. Exercise
Starting with the least favorite yet most effective. It has been proven by science that exercising drastically reduces stress levels. It stimulates the release of endorphins, what you call happy hormones to keep your mood in check.
However, if exercising seems overwhelming to you, you can start with the ones that you enjoy. If you enjoy dancing, ditch the push-ups and indulge in a 20 min Zumba session to wave goodbye to stress and anxiety.
You don’t have to pay for gym memberships; it’s perfectly fine if you do workouts at home. You can find plenty of guidance videos on YouTube for the same.
2. Have a morning routine
If you feel trapped inside the 9 to 5 culture or all-day working-home-maker, your daytime routine would be most stressful. You would not find time to do things that you like, and that would make work much more frustrating than it ought to be.
However, if you consider adhering to a morning routine every day, you can spend some time with yourself, drink coffee in quiet & peace, and do things you enjoy. Things you really enjoy, not scrolling on social media all morning.
Thus, create a morning routine for yourself, and include all those activities that provide you peace. Make sure you follow the routine before you leave for work (Wake up earlier if you have to and try and reduce your social media intake).
3. Use a planner
When you don’t use a planner, things can get overwhelming for you. Your daily tasks might look like a mess. But if you function using a planner, and have the day well planned and scheduled, it will all feel easy. Moreover, with the systematic organization of your daily tasks, you would be equally motivated to get them over with. Stop feeling behind all the time, grab a planner!
4. Read a book in peace
Those people who enjoy reading books can easily reduce their stress levels. Reading allows peace and quiet that your work life does not. All the more, reading a book is no less than an escape. It takes you to the work of fiction, and you are no more concerned about chaotic work-life outside.
Even when you are in your office, spend at most 15 minutes reading. However, if you cannot do it there, use your commuting time.
5. Write it down
Feeling you are on the edge because there’s so much in your head? Work stress, home stress, career stress, financial burden, and whatnot.
I know how frustrating it can be. But you are just human to feel overwhelmed, irritated, and exhausted. However, there is still something that you can do about it.
LET IT ALL OUT on a piece of paper. Write down everything you feel. Even the negative thoughts. Organize your thoughts however you want. Be raw, be vulnerable, feel free to clench your teeth, and tear the paper into two. Time spent doing this exercise will never be wasted. For a more tailored way of journaling, try bullet journaling!
6. Set priorities while you work
People say multitasking can be beneficial, but the truth is, it only makes you stress more. And it can actually increase stress throughout the day, on into the night. Thus, when you have piles full of work, do not stress instead prioritize your tasks, and deal with them one by one.
Those with earlier deadlines, or those that are most demanding, prioritize them.
7. Clean up your surrounding area
Your mind might not work best if you are surrounded by clutter. So to clear mental clutter, you might as well need to clear the clutter around you. So fold the blankets, tidy up your bed, and desk, and then start with work. An untidy workstation would only add to your stress, deal with it first.
I know personally when my office or kitchen is cluttered or messy, I can’t think. I have to stop what I’m doing and clean up. When I’m done, and only then, can I get back to work or think straight.
8. Set aside time to actively reduce mental clutter.
So, how do you clear your mental clutter? It’s actually quite simple. You just need to create some daily routines and stick to them.
The first thing you need to do is take a brain dump. Write down all of the thoughts and feelings that are cluttering your mind. Get them all out in the open so you can deal with them one at a time. Kind of like a mental to-do list.
Then, start by focusing on the most important tasks. Don’t try to do everything at once. Just stay focused on one single task at a time and pay attention to what you’re doing. This will help clear your mind and make space for new thoughts and ideas.
9. Develop a mental health-focused routine.
You also need to create some regular routines for your mental health. This could include things like yoga, practice meditation, or journaling. These activities will help clear your mind and keep it healthy on a regular basis. This might also include developing a way to set boundaries at work and with family that gives you much-needed time to declutter the mind.
10. Address your physical clutter.
Finally, you need to address your physical clutter as well. But not just your immediate surroundings this time. This can be anything from a cluttered desk to a messy bedroom to a messy car. Start by clearing off one surface at a time and focus on organizing one drawer or shelf each week. It may take some time, but eventually, your physical space will reflect your mental space.
By creating some simple daily routines and sticking to them, you can clear your mental clutter and improve your mental health. So don’t wait any longer, get started today!
When clutter fills your mind, it is a sign that you have to do something about it. You need to de-stress and focus on regaining your mental energy. We sincerely hope that these tips help you do just that. JUST RELAX.
I hope these tips are helpful and bite-sized enough to help you remember that mental clutter is possible to remove and will help you to get things done more efficiently when you take the time to clear them out instead of piling them on!
Great leaders aren’t that way by accident. They share common and effective habits that help them become successful. Find out the top 9 success habits of great leaders that you can implement in your own life.
Successful leaders recognize that their success doesn’t stem from one or two decisions or events. But rather a succession of decisions that are cultivated over time. It’s a journey, a grind if you will, that requires daily commitment. In other words, good leaders understand that success is the result of highly effective daily habits that become part of your routine.
Habits are acquired behavior patterns that are repeated so frequently that they become almost involuntary. They’re powerful subconscious behaviors that operate in the background of our lives and yet they dictate how we think, act, and move through life. Habits, if not reviewed, molded, or reshaped can run amok. However, for those who make the effort to review, understand, and change their habits, these behaviors can form great character and be the driving force that leads to productivity and success.
Therefore, it comes as no surprise that great leaders form and share certain good habits that help ensure their success.
9 Success Habits Of Great Leaders
The best, most effective leaders learn and share a variety of key habits that contribute to their success. If you search, you can find long lists of these habits, but I feel these 9 are really the key driving force to success in leadership.
Starting Each Day Offline
In today’s world, we live online. Whether it’s email, social media, television, or internet surfing, these avenues can help form bad habits, increase stress levels, and waste time, when not used in an effective way.
In order to help find that necessary balance, put that device down and be intentional with your time. The best way to keep an intentional mindset with regard to your time is to start your day offline. Meditating, exercising, doing yoga, and reading are all great habits to help jump-start your day in a positive and centered way. Arianna Huffington, the founder of The Huffington Post, practices yoga and meditation every day to keep her stress levels low.
Establishing a Morning Routine
The way you start your day sets the tone for the entire rest of your day. Great leaders focus on establishing healthy morning routines that fuel their minds, bodies, and spirits. Waking up on the right and bright side of the bed makes a huge difference.
Doing this helps them get centered for the day so they can stay calm and make good decisions no matter what the day brings their way. Morning habits of highly effective leaders might include:
Wake up at the same time each morning
Get some exercise
Eat a healthy breakfast
Dedicate a few minutes to meditation
Practice daily gratitude
This positive habit will help to develop your emotional intelligence so that you can manage your emotions as well as the people on your team. Fast Company has a few other ideas to help develop your emotional intelligence too.
Taking Time to Reconnect with Yourself
When people work hard toward making goals, they can sometimes get lost in that effort and lose themselves in the process. When that happens, other aspects of life suffer. If leaders avoid taking time to themselves, it can cause inefficiencies all the way down the line.
Great leaders who want to be successful in the long term will take time to occasionally step away from the work, the goals, and the company. In order to reconnect with themselves, reevaluate their goals and decide on a path forward. Effective and confident leaders know that success means needing to pivot or change focus on occasion, and that can only happen by taking time to reconnect with yourself and your “why”.
Implementing Reading Time
One of the best ways to relax, learn, and grow is by reading. Books share ideas, inspire our creativity, and teach us about the lessons that other people learned. The best leaders have wisdom that they received from reading books.
If you think reading isn’t your thing, that might change once you know that reading:
Reduces stress
Makes you smarter
Increases your knowledge
Improves memory
Grows your vocabulary
Improves your reasoning skills
Is fun
Not sure where to start? Try asking others what they’re reading. Or search for the top self-development or business books. The more you can learn about yourself, your business, and your strategy, the more successful you will be as a leader.
Practicing What You Preach
Good leaders will preach about having values such as following the Golden Rule. As any founder and CEO of a company knows, if you preach about certain values, you need to really live by them on a daily basis. Consistency is key.
Being More Organized & Accountable
In order to be an effective leader, you have to stay organized so that you know what’s going on and are able to strategically make the right changes when needed. You also need to be accountable for those necessary changes when things don’t go well so that those same issues don’t repeat in the future.
Take ownership of your organizational habits as well as your accountability with your team, and they will trust you and appreciate your honesty.
Nurturing Relationships
Great leaders don’t find success on their own. It takes a team working with them, and it takes support from family and friends.
The best leaders know that relationships in all facets of their lives are integral to their success. Working toward a goal shouldn’t be done at the expense of personal relationships. In the same vein, business relationships can be extremely beneficial when it comes to solving problems. People are motivated by a leader who is in the trenches with them. Additionally, if you spend all your time focusing on business or your goals and not enjoying life, you’re completely missing the point of what success really is.
Take time to nurture your relationship-building skills. And while it may seem counterintuitive that playing with your kids can lead to more success, finding a balance between business and pleasure leads to more enjoyment and relaxation which makes for more effective leadership. Former President Barack Obama made it a point to have breakfast and dinner with his wife and daughters every day to keep those relationships strong.
They Credit Their Team With the Win
Leaders are just that – the person in charge. While they may make some important and key decisions, they rarely do all the brainstorming or the grunt work on a project. Highly successful leaders don’t need the limelight and take the time to evaluate what went well – and what didn’t.
Then, they take it a step further by owning the contributions of the big-picture effort and effectively communicate that by giving credit to those team members who made the success possible. And this is one of the best ways to breed long-term sustainable success.
Have Healthy Food and Exercise Routines
Really good leaders know that in order to operate at optimum capacity, you need to take care of your body physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. And great health starts with taking good care of your body physically.
A good diet, good sleep habits, and plenty of exercise will help you have focus, energy, and endurance to get through your day. Evan Williams, the founder of Twitter, takes time out of his workday every day to get in a strenuous workout which helps improve his energy levels and mental clarity for an afternoon of work. If you have goals you want to strive toward, try implementing these success habits of great leaders and see the difference they make in your life and in accomplishing your goals.
What Do All Leaders Have In Common?
Leaders are people who get things done and make a positive impact on the world. In order to do that, they must be able to listen and build relationships with others. They must also be willing to have their opinions expressed clearly, even if it’s unpopular, in order to positively impact their chances of success.
Stephen Covey identified four practices that highly effective people practice: active listening, building trust through transparency, building a team around you, and acting with integrity. He also believed that leaders should have a vision for where they want to go and then work together with others to achieve it.
The family is the core element of community building, and a parenting style nourishes a child’s socialization values. It includes compassion, ethics, respect, and a sense of responsibility. When it comes to my daughters and precarious situations, I take that precious 5 seconds of deep thinking. It’s both a struggle and an opportunity to learn.
As a parent, the task of raising decent human beings with good character is on your shoulders from the second you find out you’re pregnant. You do your best so they’ll become better members of society. The idea of positive parenting is daunting but it’s not without fun moments and golden opportunities.
I’ll share with you some of the tips and tricks I learned along the way on how to raise good kids!
How To Raise Good Kids
Whether they’re inside or outside your home, teach kids the power of having positive thoughts and a healthy mindset. Forge it by focusing on building a solid relationship with your kids, one that thrives on trust and mutual respect. Understand their thoughts and learn how to help them flourish. And by doing this, you won’t just raise positive kids, but you’ll raise happy kids.
Create a Sense of Certainty
Your children learn when you set boundaries for them. They need to have a sense of certainty to think their actions through and mindfulness when making decisions. If there’s an opportunity, include them in the decision-making.
One example is delegating household chores. Huddle with them while creating a list, and discuss every part of the process. Explain to them why these rules are in place or what will happen if they fail to do their tasks. Raising emotionally capable kids includes encouraging them to be patient, compassionate, resourceful, and gritty.
A child learns through what they see in their environment, and it’s up to us, their parents, to help them mold their logic and ethics. Society is not without laws and structure, and in your home, make them follow a set of rules and guide them in understanding the consequences of their actions.
Encourage Learning
Kids have different learning motivations, the same way that their personalities vary. Show them that anywhere is a place for learning, it is not limited to traditional educational environments such as school. By giving them the right motivation, you are helping them enhance their passion, abilities, and desire to learn. Here are some ways that help them discover the fun of learning:
1. Let your child explore instead of imposing control.
Guide them through the process. Learning is a positive experience, and they must feel supported while making choices through activities and in an environment conducive to their learning. When teaching your child to read, let them select the books, or if they’re not proactive enough, choose them based on their interest.
2. Encourage your child to explore their favorite topics.
Let them enjoy the learning journey by focusing on what they consider a fun lesson. Listen actively to what they have to say, and learn about what things they pay attention to more than the others. In doing this, you are bringing joy to their idea of learning.
If you show interest in their interests, they might perform better. Research has shown that successful kids who grow up with adults that encourage them to pursue what they are most passionate about, tend to do better in school and develop good socializing values.
3. Encourage questions.
When kids develop curiosity, you allow them to explore their surroundings. As it is essential in their learning, it’s also crucial in personality development. When you are nurturing a curious child, you are raising happiness in their lives.
Be Present
To raise good kids, spending time together as a family and allotting one-on-one time with each child is key! Maybe, make a Friday tradition of watching movies, and as they grow older, ask them to set a special time and eat dinner together. Research shows that family meals (either around the dinner table or at least all together somewhere else) promote healthy eating habits thus preventing kids from developing an eating disorder in the long term.
University of Minnesota researcher Dianne Neumark-Sztainer, Ph.D., MPH, RD, said that “It doesn’t have to be a home-cooked meal. The idea is to bring people together”. Through her research, she found out that those who experience eating meals regularly in a positive atmosphere are less likely to show signs of eating disorders like vomiting, diet pills, and chronic dieting.
Allow Them To Express Their Opinion
Encourage sincere and open communication, they’ll feel comfortable expressing their thoughts. It fosters trust and minimizes negative thoughts. It will be easy for them to tell you if uncomfortable situations overwhelm or confuse them.
According to Judith Smetana, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at the University of Rochester who studies the development and family relationships, one of the common challenges in most families is the ability to “balance teen’s need for autonomy with other concerns.” In her study published in 2016, she and her colleagues found that disagreement regarding the bounds and limits of parental authority can cause bad behavior problems. It’s usually the source of adolescent-parent conflicts. As well as the use of drugs and alcohol at a young age.
Be Consistent
If you want to raise good kids, then help then become fully functioning adults. Your children will remember how you connect with them emotionally, the activities you did as a family, and the frequency of sharing a meal. It’s where consistency comes in and it matters because it indicates how you sincerely and mindfully engage. Model positive behavior and keep a positive attitude – be a role model.
If in every instance of a tantrum at the grocery store, they see you helping them process their big feelings, then you are showing them stability. During their learning process, it helps them get better at internalization.
Consistency comes with expectations, and children see the world through patterns. I constantly struggle with it because parenting could be so frustrating and alienating at times, but every time I try, I also feel better that I did. If you’re like me and patience is not your strongest suit, take time to reflect and remind yourself that you are creating the blueprint of your child’s emotional well-being.
Raising good kids isn’t an easy task, but it certainly is doable.
Positive parenting solutions work wonders when it comes to parent-child relationships. The influence of happier parents strengthens the emotional intelligence and mental resilience of their young children. Kids learn positive behaviors from their parents – you!
Parenting is the most critical public health issue faced by societies across the world. Young children need to have a nurturing relationship with their parents or guardians. Another published study claims that if children have their parents’ social support coupled with an open and positive parent-child interaction, they will most likely do better in the community.
So, next time when you’re on vacation, about to enjoy an exquisite steak, and your child suddenly decides that it’s the best time to throw a fit, give yourself a chance to pause. Think things through. Remind yourself that kids feel with big emotions, it’s up to you how you will help them navigate them. With all the resources available on positive parenting, look at your role holistically. In essence, you are a teacher, a nurse, a transformational leader, an inspiration, and an ultimate supporter.
How Does Responsible Parenting Affect a Child’s Physical Health?
Studies have shown that responsible parenting has a positive impact on the physical health of children, including improved sleep and fewer behavioral problems. Responsible parents are able to spend more time with their children, which may help them regulate their emotions. Furthermore, responsible parents who help their children with good behavior are also raising kids who will be successful as adults and feel like they can succeed in life.
Responsible parents are also better able to help their children learn how to control their emotions and understand how other people feel. Helicopter parents tend to hover over their children too much, but if you can strike a balance between being present for your child and giving them space when they need it, then you’ll be teaching your kids how to take responsibility for themselves—which is arguably one of the most important things you can do as a parent.
Being a parent is a commitment.
You set the foundation so your kids will have a positive outlook on life and healthy emotional well-being. You are their provision of support – give them positive affirmations, provide them with respect, protect them, and convey your love to them. As they grow, you should develop that depth of knowledge on how to best support them in every milestone of their lives. And it’s never too early to start developing that positive psychology.
While they’re little, time seems to be so slow and their dependence too high. However, that could all change. In a blink of an eye, you are releasing them to the world, and hopefully, with the innate pride that you’ve raised a good person who will do positive and great things.
Women-owned businesses in Arizona have been on my mind for a long time. I could even include myself and so many others in this post, but I will save that for another time. This idea came about due to the impact COVID-19 had and is still having on so many businesses. I’ve personally interacted with and have gotten to know the owners of each of these woman-owned businesses and I’ve even shopped in them too.
As a woman, a mother of girls, and an entrepreneur, I believe it’s incredibly important to support women and their dreams. What better way to show my girls that anything they can dream of is possible than to support other women who are doing the exact same thing?
As a host of short-term rental properties, what better way to share our local economy with out-of-town visitors than to offer them a local experience filled with the heart and soul of a woman who lives where they are visiting? I can’t think of a better way, which is why I’m compiling this list to help not only my guests but as a reference for locals to also learn about some new businesses they may not have known about previously.
And I should note, this list will continue to grow. In some of these places, I have discount codes and referral links because I do shop them often enough, and even provide some of these items in a welcome basket to our homes. Several of these businesses can also ship their product to you if you are not local to Arizona as well. Be sure to check back often as this list will continue to grow as I find and remember more small, woman-owned businesses here in the Valley of the Sun!
Cute little boutique in Glendale that’s been in business for over 15 years! They carry some of my favorite brands including Chaser, Good Hyman, Z Supply, Gorjana, etc, and have candles, notebooks, jewelry, and shoes. The pricing is a bit more high-end, but they always have sale racks and have such good customer service! They offer shipping and free delivery right now for anyone within 10 miles of their storefront. Be sure to follow them on Instagram, and check out their app.
Preserved floral arrangements and single roses, need I say more? Ok, I will, but Sasha and her team are so easy to work with, create some of the most beautifully fresh and preserved arrangements, and create an experience you will remember long after the initial gifting wears off. The preserved flowers last well over a year, and still look as great as the day you receive them. Sasha always has a vision and can create from as many or few details as you give her! They deliver locally to Arizona and can ship Nationwide. Make sure to follow Lovebox on Instagram to see the creativity they make come to life!
Lanna is one of the nicest people you could meet! She’s taking the concept of a nail salon and creating a community. She has partnered with other local businesses to have a boutique shopping experience inside the salon, has a membership program so you don’t have to think about getting your mani/pedis scheduled like I have a hard time remembering to do, has personal rooms where estheticians can work, and so many great things in the works! I feel like an actual person when I walk in and feel comfortable taking my girls along with me, not just a number like many other places. When people move to Arizona from the Midwest, I often hear that the hospitality isn’t here, and I believe it.
However, when you visit Pamprd Soul, Lanna, and her team honestly care and bring that hospitality to you from the moment you open the door. And the decor inside is so cute too! Be sure to get your photo taken in front of the palm wall 🙂 Check them out on Instagram for nail inspo and amazing life inspiration!
Hand-stamped jewelry created from places around the world? Yes, please! The quality and finish of the pieces Ava creates are phenomenal! They are high-end and super creative – like none you have ever seen before! And my girls love the abalone shell creations she makes! Perfect as a gift for yourself or to give someone else. Find where she is stocked on her Instagram, including some international places!
My go-to gal when I need professional photos taken! She does family, newborn, individuals, homes, events, furniture, you name it! Nicole is amazing at capturing the right angle and bringing out your best. She is available for travel and knows the valley well and can recommend great photo spots! Her Instagram is where I go for inspiration!
The best gourmet, small-batch, flavored popcorn you will EVER find! This popcorn is incredible and will have you eating the entire bag before you realize it’s gone! Or maybe that was only me… Anyways, they make seasonal flavors, and custom packages for large parties or corporate events, or even family gatherings. To keep up with the flavors they have in stock, be sure to visit their Instagram.
The two store locations in the valley are a total VIBE! I first happened into the Old Town Scottsdale location after seeing their converted Uhaul truck out and about. They have since outgrown that location and moved into another spot down the street and have expanded into the Scottsdale Quarter for the second location. This shop is a “street meets sweet” style and I love a lot of their clothing. They are a no-BS brand, and it comes straight from Susie, the owner. I respect the hustle and attitude so much! I would say they are affordable and carry some higher-end pieces if that’s what you are into. Visit their store or Instagram and you will instantly see what I’m talking about!
Woman and veteran-owned, fellow girl mama, Kayla and her two other estheticians are magic workers on your skin! Book one appointment with the girls and you will be hooked for life! I met Kayla over 2 years ago and this is her second feature on my blog! Her first is HERE. Their signature ‘No Filter Facial’ brought my dry, tired, mom skin back to life and made my eyes feel alive again! And the DMK facial is one of the coolest facial experiences you could ever have! They are located inside a medical spa and right near Pamprd Soul, so you could book yourself an entire day and hop from one place to the next! Instagram is where you can find all their cool treatments and they recommend mixing and matching!
Brittany is the sweetest mama of 2 littles and a military wife. She works on her business out of her home, does markets when those are allowed, and will ship your order to you wherever you live in the cutest packaging! Her specialty is holidays and small batches. She makes items to order, so she doesn’t keep a ton of inventory around, which I love as a business person and running lean! All of her designs are her own or she collaborates with other local small shops, and the material she finds for the shirts is soft like butter! Make sure to give her a follow on Instagram to keep up with what she’s got up her sleeves for the next season!
Boutique short and long-term rental experiences are available in North Scottsdale, specifically close to Kierland and the Scottsdale Quarter. They specialize in hosting families and groups, and those wanting a space to relax and enjoy North Scottsdale for their time in Arizona. Check out their Instagram for inspiration and favorite spots to visit while in town.
Bree is the gal behind this cute little Bungalow that offers spray tanning in Old Town Scottsdale. I believe she may still be offering mobile tanning if you make an appointment. The product she uses is Vegan, Gluten, and Paraben free, which is amazing for those who have reactions like me! If you aren’t local to AZ or can’t get an appointment, Bree has a line of products available to ship and gives the best advice for keeping your sunless tan that much longer! Go check her out on Instagram to see what I mean!
This is one of the best small-batch produced jerky ever, per my husband! He has tried every flavor the owner, Veronica, makes and loves them all! I’m not a jerky eater, so I can’t tell you how it does taste, but what I can tell you is how fast he eats them. The bag is usually gone in one sitting, which isn’t common for Steve. She can ship to you or you can do local pick-up. Once markets get back and open, expect to see Hunter Jaymes Meat Co as a staple vendor. If you are into mouthwatering photos of meat, check out her Instagram.
Easily the best-filled cookie in the valley! The flavor combinations they come up with will just blow your mind! These are individually wrapped and have all the ingredients and nutrition facts on each of the cookies, so these make great gifts for a party. They are individually sold or can be bought in a dozen for a bit of a discount. Pickup is offered and delivery within a certain radius is offered. Check their website to order and see if you can get delivery or pickup.
Cute pop-up events with local vendors. This event started as a weekly market in Gilbert but has since shifted to have an online presence that can be shipped anywhere in the US. The makers range from cookies, jerky, toys, and clothing, to photo backdrops to coffee/tea mugs to baby items. The gals who run these events are some of the nicest ladies, and I love chatting with them so much. Check out their Instagram to keep up with the latest events and happenings.
If you are looking for boho home decor, this is your go-to! Handpainted signs, words of encouragement, personalized signs for your home, and slightly more edgy signs, and much more. The colors are vibrant yet can match so well. Emma is a sweet lady and everything she makes and creates is magic! Give them a follow on Instagram to keep up with what they are doing and making!
Edgy Coffee shop on a busy little street in sleepy North Scottsdale Plaza. The woman behind this shop is a college student and a young 24 years old! She opened this shop in May of 2020, amid the global pandemic, and is thriving! The girls and I love that we have a local coffee shop that makes some of our favorite drinks, has ample seating, and we can bring our pups to the shop with us! And, if you are looking for a place where you aren’t another number, be sure to drive right past Starbucks and visit Street Brew. Check out their Instagram to see why they are the best and for the cutest vibes!
If you are looking for a waxing or aesthetic place where you can truly relax and feel at ease, Elisha of AZ Sugar Bliss is your gal! A fellow girl mama, Elisha has over 15 years of experience and uses only top-of-the-line ingredients and devices. Every time I go to get a bikini wax, I no longer feel like I need to clam up and get nervous from the pain. The conversation always flows so easily, and Elisha makes what could be a very uncomfortable situation extremely pleasant. She uses mermaid wax, which you have to check out her Instagram to see! Her schedule fills up quickly, so make sure to give her a follow and get on her books ASAP! It will be the most accessible and enjoyable appointment on your schedule!
How To Support Women-Owned Businesses
Why support women-owned businesses? Because we’re not here to just make a living; we’re here to make a difference. We believe that women have something unique to offer the world, and we want everyone to know about it. That’s why as women, we should be committed to making sure that everyone knows about the amazing things you can buy from women-owned businesses in Arizona.
Donate if You Can
The best way to support woman-owned businesses is to give them your money. It’s as simple as that! There are a number of platforms that you can use to donate directly to women in business, including GoFundMe, Venmo, and Fundly. You can also show your support by making purchases through their websites or social media accounts.
Promote via Social Media
Never forget about the power of social media: sharing positive stories about women-owned businesses on your own personal pages and tagging those businesses in posts can help them get the recognition they deserve! You don’t need to do much: just share their product or service as a post on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. You’ll be helping support women-owned businesses while also giving yourself a pat on the back!
Invest If You Can
Investing in woman-owned businesses can be a great way to support the women in your community. One of the best ways to do this is through crowdfunding platforms like Patreon, IndieGoGo, and StartEngine. These sites allow you to invest as little as $1 and as much as $10,000 or more in a woman-owned business or project. You’ll get regular updates on your investment and a chance to meet the woman who runs it! Another way you can invest in woman-owned businesses is by buying stock in them through an investment broker. This can be difficult if you’re not familiar with how it works, but there are many resources available online that will walk you through the process step by step.
These Woman-Owned Businesses in Arizona Could Use Your Support
This is the short list of some of my favorite woman-owned businesses in Arizona, many of which have pivoted during these challenging times. The pivot has made it much easier for those who are not local to Arizona or can’t visit any time soon, to experience a little bit of the Valley of The Sun in their home too.
If I missed someone, please comment below, and let’s get them included in this! I plan to continue to update this list, so please send any that I need to add to this list of Woman-Owned Businesses in Arizona! Until then, I hope you enjoy and support some of these businesses because they are the backbone of home and this country.
Are you feeling weighed down by the amount of stuff in your life? Do you ever look around your house and feel overwhelmed at everything that needs to be taken care of, moved or organized? Maybe it feels like owning too many things is cluttering up your life. Well if this sounds familiar then it may be time to consider changing something – namely own less stuff by reducing the amount of material items in your possession.
It is no secret that material possessions are seen as a representation of success and wealth in today’s society. But this sentiment can often result in unhealthy obsessions. In addition to the physical clutter too much “stuff” creates, it can also have an adverse effect on mental health by inducing anxiety and depression. To prevent these issues from arising, it is essential to understand the power owning less has over our overall wellbeing. Not only does this practice reduce stress levels due to living with fewer belongings; it allows us more time and energy for activities which provide true satisfaction – like spending quality time with family or pursuing personal interests.
Embracing a lifestyle where we own less stuff is becoming an increasingly popular way to make life simpler and more enjoyable. With that in mind let’s dig into this topic more so that you can better understand why owning less could benefit both you and the environment!
How To Own Less Stuff
Identify what you truly need verses want
Have you ever gone shopping with a list of things you thought you needed, only to come back with a cart full of things you wanted but didn’t necessarily need? It happens to the best of us. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to question whether a purchase is a need or a want. But it’s important to take a step back and evaluate what we truly need versus what we want. Needs are the basic necessities for survival, such as food, shelter, and clothing. Wants are the extras, the nice-to-haves. By differentiating between the two, we can make better financial decisions and create a more intentional, fulfilling life. So next time you’re tempted to splurge on something you want, ask yourself if it’s truly necessary or if it’s just a want that can wait.
Set a limit for yourself on how much new stuff you bring in each month
Hey there! Let’s talk about setting limits. Specifically, setting a limit for yourself on how much new stuff you bring in each month. It’s so easy to get caught up in consumer culture and constantly be acquiring new things. But, have you ever stopped to think about the impact that has on your wallet and your living space? By setting a limit for yourself, you can be more intentional about what you bring into your life and avoid clutter and overspending. It doesn’t have to be a strict limit either. Just something that works for you and your lifestyle. So, next time you’re tempted to make an impulse purchase, consider setting a limit and see how it changes your habits.
Develop a mindful way of shopping – really think about the value of the item before buying it
Have you ever walked into a store with the intention of buying just one thing, but then end up leaving with a cart full of items you didn’t really need? It’s understandable, we’ve all been there before. However, it’s time to develop a more mindful approach to shopping. Before making a purchase, take a step back. Think about the value of the item you’re about to buy. Do you really need it? Will it bring you joy or serve a purpose? By being more conscious about what we buy, we not only save money. But we also contribute to a more sustainable and clutter-free lifestyle. It’s time to prioritize value over impulse.
Reuse items by finding creative ways to repurpose them or donate them when done with them
Let’s talk about reusing items! I’ve always been a big believer in finding creative ways to repurpose things. Whether it’s turning an old shirt into a tote bag or using wine bottles as vases, there’s something so satisfying about giving new life to something that would otherwise be thrown away. And if you can’t find a new use for an item, don’t forget about the option to donate it. Someone else might be able to give it a new life. And you’ll feel good knowing that you’ve kept something out of a landfill. So the next time you’re about to toss something out, take a moment to consider if there’s another way to use it or if someone else might benefit from it.
Declutter, donate, or sell items that no longer serve you to create more space around your home and mindset
Are you feeling weighed down by clutter in your home and mind? I understand – sometimes it can feel overwhelming. But here’s a solution: take a look at the items in your home and ask yourself if they truly serve you. If the answer is no, it’s time to let them go. Whether you choose to donate, sell, or simply toss them – freeing up physical space in your home can do wonders for your mental clarity. Plus, donating or selling items is a great way to declutter with purpose and give back to your community. So what are you waiting for? Take the leap and start creating more space in your home and mindset today.
Minimize paper clutter by storing important documents digitally
Let’s face it, paper clutter can be overwhelming. With bills, receipts, and important documents piling up, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in a sea of paperwork. Luckily, there’s a solution: storing your important documents digitally. By using a scanner or your smartphone, you can easily convert physical documents into digital copies that can be stored on your computer, cloud storage, or even your phone. Not only does this free up physical space in your home or office, but it also makes it easier to find and organize important documents. Plus, you won’t have to worry about losing important papers in the shuffle. So hit that “scan” button and say goodbye to paper clutter for good!
Owning less stuff can be quite freeing and liberating. But understanding when it’s the right decision for you requires both courage and honesty. Looking at what we own—and why—allows us to become more intentional about our belongings. And more conscious about living with fewer material goods. In a world of increasing consumerism, this is an especially important reminder of how to keep the things that bring joy and purpose while reducing the amount of unnecessary waste, within our homes and minds. If we do choose to add new items, having awareness around purchasing with intention and then taking care of what we already have can go a long way towards finding balance between legacy and newness in our lives.
If you want to continue on this topic, I wrote a post about 20 Reasons to Own Less Stuff, and you can read that here.
memberships that I’ve been on the fence about keeping and I could see those going away. I didn’t do anything with them just yet, but I received an email letting me know that my membership was canceled, but I was charged today….. So I’m going to either get my money back or get to participate for another month.
attention and energy on what you want to achieve. Dr. Wayne Dyer, the author of The Power of Intention, compares the field of energy that surrounds us to a GPS. When we set our intention, we are telling the universe where we want to go. Just as a GPS won’t work if we don’t input a destination, the universe won’t be able to guide us if we don’t have a clear intention. Second, setting an intention can help to improve the quality of our lives. When we focus on what we want, rather than what we don’t want, we are more likely to attract positive experiences and opportunities into our lives.
reduces stress levels. It stimulates the release of endorphins, what you call happy hormones to keep your mood in check.
mess. But if you function using a planner, and have the day well planned and scheduled, it will all feel easy. Moreover, with the systematic organization of your daily tasks, you would be equally motivated to get them over with. Stop feeling behind all the time, 
have piles full of work, do not stress instead prioritize your tasks, and deal with them one by one.
healthy mindset. Forge it by focusing on building a solid relationship with your kids, one that thrives on trust and mutual respect. Understand their thoughts and learn how to help them flourish. And by doing this, you won’t just raise positive kids, but you’ll raise happy kids.
and they must feel supported while making choices through activities and in an environment conducive to their learning. When teaching your child to read, let them select the books, or if they’re not proactive enough, choose them based on their interest.
watching movies, and as they grow older, ask them to set a special time and eat dinner together. Research shows that family meals (either around the dinner table or at least all together somewhere else) promote healthy eating habits thus preventing kids from developing an eating disorder in the long term.
tantrum at the grocery store, they see you helping them process their big feelings, then you are showing them stability. During their learning process, it helps them get better at internalization.
each month. It’s so easy to get caught up in consumer culture and constantly be acquiring new things. But, have you ever stopped to think about the impact that has on your wallet and your living space? By setting a limit for yourself, you can be more intentional about what you bring into your life and avoid clutter and overspending. It doesn’t have to be a strict limit either. Just something that works for you and your lifestyle. So, next time you’re tempted to make an impulse purchase, consider setting a limit and see how it changes your habits.
another way to use it or if someone else might benefit from it.
both courage and honesty. Looking at what we own—and why—allows us to become more intentional about our belongings. And more conscious about living with fewer material goods. In a world of increasing consumerism, this is an especially important reminder of how to keep the things that bring joy and purpose while reducing the amount of unnecessary waste, within our homes and minds. If we do choose to add new items, having awareness around purchasing with intention and then taking care of what we already have can go a long way towards finding balance between legacy and newness in our lives.
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