How to Get Back to Work After the Holidays

The workplace can be stressful and even more stressful after a break, but it doesn't have to be. There are several ways that you can maintain your mental wellness when returning to work after a long break.

Getting back to work after a break—whether after the end of the year or a family vacation—can be difficult for anyone, even the most seasoned executive. And with the continued demands of your jobs, it is inevitable to have some sort of stress. But with a compilation of techniques, you can make your time easing back into your routine at work more enjoyable and less taxing on your mental health.

Here are some of my best tips to help you get back into a routine after a holiday break or end-of-year vacation. But first, let's examine how stress and anxiety can impact us.

Anxiety and stress can significantly impact our lives. These two parts of life can cause physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, headaches, and stomach upset. It can also lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, which can make it difficult to manage everyday tasks. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage anxiety and reduce its effects on our lives. 

• Strive to identify and reduce stress and anxiety triggers.
  Stress and anxiety can take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. It is important to be aware of the triggers that can lead to heightened levels of stress and anxiety so that we can work towards reducing them. By recognizing these triggers, we can create strategies to manage our stress and anxiety levels more healthily, leading to improved mental health.

• Learn how to breathe the right way to manage stress.
  Learning how to breathe correctly is a powerful way to reduce stress. With the right technique, we can learn to control our breath and relax our bodies and minds. This can help alleviate tension, improve focus and clarity, and restore balance in our life. Understanding the correct breathing techniques allows us to take charge of our well-being and manage stress more effectively.

• Say ‘no’ if we are too busy or experiencing stress at home or work.
  It is important to take time to care for ourselves and recognize when we are too busy or overwhelmed. Doing so can help us avoid feeling overextended and overworked, allowing us to focus on the things that matter most. By taking the time to say ‘no’ when needed, we can create more balance in our lives and manage stress more effectively.

• We may need to tell ourselves it’s okay not to be perfect.
  We often strive for perfection in our lives, which can lead to high stress and anxiety levels. It is important to remember that it is acceptable not to be perfect. Everyone makes mistakes, which are often a part of the learning process. Embracing imperfection can help us to be more creative, resilient, and accepting of ourselves and others.

• Create a list of values important to us and strive to live by them.
  Values are the cornerstone of a meaningful life. They define who we are and how we interact with others. By creating and living by a personal list of values, we can become better versions of ourselves and more effective in our pursuits. Through this process, we can strive to make meaningful contributions to the world around us.

• Ensure we have a quiet workspace so we can focus without distractions.
  Working in a noisy and distracting environment can be detrimental to productivity. Creating a quiet workspace can help us stay focused and work more efficiently. It is essential to ensure that our workspace is free from any kind of distractions, be they physical or digital so that we can concentrate on the task at hand without any interruptions. A tranquil workspace will enable us to remain productive and achieve better results.

• Develop a support networking with others who understand us.
  Creating a support network of people who understand and relate to us can be a powerful tool for personal growth. It is important to build relationships with individuals who can provide honest and unbiased opinions, inspire us, and motivate us when times get tough. With the help of such a network, we can learn from each other's experiences, share our struggles and successes, and gain strength from one another.

• Spend time with like-minded people inside and outside of work.
  Spending time with people who share similar values, interests, and goals can be a great way to boost productivity and foster personal growth. Whether in a formal setting such as a club or an informal gathering of friends, interacting with like-minded individuals can help build meaningful relationships and provide fresh perspectives on life.

• Take on some outside projects that are both challenging and interesting to build our self-confidence.
  Taking on challenging and interesting projects outside our usual scope can be an excellent way to build self-confidence and experience. By stepping outside our comfort zones, we can gain insights into new industries and develop new skills that can help us in the short and long term. Investing time into these projects is a great way to expand our knowledge base and open new doors for future opportunities.

• Understand the importance of mindfulness and meditation.
  Mindfulness and meditation have become increasingly popular over the past few years as tools to reduce stress, improve focus, and increase well-being. With the help of mindfulness and meditation, we can gain insight into our thoughts and feelings, enabling us better understand ourselves and our reactions to life’s events. Practicing mindfulness can help us cultivate more joy in life by increasing our awareness of the present moment. At the same time, meditation can provide a sense of peace that is often difficult to find in today’s fast-paced world. Ultimately, both practices can help us lead more fulfilling lives.

• Learn to accept who we are and embrace it.
  Accepting who we are is one of the most important life lessons. Self-acceptance is a journey that requires us to be honest with ourselves, recognize our flaws and strengths, and learn to embrace them. It can be difficult, but it’s essential to gaining confidence and feeling comfortable in our skin. With the right attitude, we can learn to accept who we are and move forward with a healthier outlook on life.

With the right support and resources, it is possible to gain control over our feelings of worry and lead a life free of fear.

- Before we go on vacation, it is critical that we plan out our time. It's important to decide how much time we will spend on work during our vacation so that we can continue working at the same pace when we come back. If our work requires a lot of scope and creativity, having the right environment to think creatively is important.

- Set realistic goals so we don’t get overwhelmed.

Setting realistic goals is an essential part of achieving success. By setting achievable goals, we can avoid feeling overwhelmed and focus on the steps to help us reach our desired outcome. Setting achievable goals allows us to track our progress and adjust our strategy as needed. By setting realistic goals, we can create an action plan that will help us reach our goal in a manageable and efficient way.

- Sometimes, during our break, it's hard to find the energy to return to work.

The common phrase "work is too much like work" is no joke. It can be difficult to return after a long vacation and get back into the routine. Bringing a photo or souvenir from our time away can help us remember why we enjoy going on vacation and make coming back easier.

- Stay connected with coworkers while on vacation by checking in with them via email or instant message now and then or sending pictures of what's happening at home, so they don't feel left out of what's happening during the break.

- Even though we may have a million things to do when we come back from a long vacation, it's advisable to take care of the most urgent duties first. Once these are taken care of, the less-important tasks will seem less intimidating. This way, our return is as pleasant as possible.

- Don’t bury ourselves in unnecessary work the first day back to work after the holidays or a vacation. The first day of a vacation can be one of the most difficult days to get back to work. It is natural for an individual to have mixed feelings about going back to work after a vacation. Some people find it tough to adapt to their routines and have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning. Others might feel guilty for taking time off and feel they should be working overtime to compensate for the time lost. We should just focus on what’s in front of us. 

- Plan our day before we head to work – this will help ensure we don't waste time deciding what to do next while at work. It'll also help us prioritize tasks so they can be done promptly.

• Time management can be a tricky topic to tackle. There are many different systems and techniques which can help us manage our time more efficiently. For example, the Pomodoro technique helps organize time by implementing short periods of focused work followed by a break. This is a great technique for those who want to maintain focus and avoid distractions.

• The Eisenhower Matrix is a time management system created by Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1951 as part of his presidency to help him decide what tasks were most important and should be given his attention during the day. The system consists of four quadrants of The Eisenhower Matrix:
  Urgent and Important,
  Not Urgent but Important,
  Urgent but not Important,
  Not Urgent, and not Important.

• GTD (Getting Things Done) time management technique "Getting Things Done" is a time management technique that aims to free the mind of clutter by collecting all tasks into a master list for review, prioritizing them, and then breaking those tasks down into doable steps.

• The Law of Diminishing Intent: This law states that the longer we wait to start something, the less likely we are to start it because our intent diminishes as time passes. This law is particularly applicable when procrastinating on a project because the longer we wait to begin, the less likely we will be to start.

• Timeboxing: This is when we have a set amount of time to complete a task or project before moving on to something else or taking a break from it altogether. Timeboxing is a technique that can be applied to tasks, projects, or goals. The process involves setting a specific time to work on our given task or project before taking a break. It can be helpful for those who need the incentive to stay focused and give up distractions.

• Another strategy for prioritizing email is called Inbox Zero. It entails sorting emails into folders, responding to them, and archiving them when they are dealt with. The idea behind Inbox Zero is to clear out our inboxes and allow us to focus on what emails require immediate attention.

• Tony Robbins, the rapid planning method is a time management technique that can help people more efficiently plan their lives. It allows people to focus on the tasks they should be working on, and avoid wasting time and energy on other projects.

• Kanban: With this method, tasks are prioritized into three columns: To Do, Doing, and Done. Kanban is a Japanese system for managing and prioritizing organizational tasks, traditionally used for manufacturing. The main principle of Kanban is that the most important tasks are moved to the Doing column (the next step) as quickly as possible; this creates a visible and simple plan for the whole team to follow.

• Most Important Task (“MIT”) Planning System: One of the most important tasks of any project is task planning. This system helps us divide our tasks into manageable sections.

• Time Batching: Time-batching is a more efficient way of managing our productivity as it helps us become more disciplined and focused on our work. It also helps manage workloads better as we can focus on one task at a time and then take a break before starting another.

• 80-20 Rule: The 80-20 rule is a rule of thumb stating that roughly 80 percent of the effects come from 20 percent of the causes. The 80-20 rule can be applied to any work or project. For instance, 20 percent of employees in a workplace may do 80 percent of the work. This can also be applied to other areas, such as marketing, where 20 percent of customers may account for 80 percent of sales.

- Try not to overexert ourselves in the first few days back to work. This might sound counterintuitive, but taking things slow and allowing our bodies and minds to adjust before jumping back into our schedules headfirst is important.

- Try to schedule some time for ourselves every day. Whether this is an hour or five minutes, ensure we're taking time out of each day to remain focused on our work and not get burnt out too quickly.

- Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins which help to improve mood and fight off depression. Physical activity releases endorphins which help to improve mood, regulate appetite, and fight off depression. The more active we are, the more endorphins are released. 

- Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep is linked with various mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Lack of sleep has been linked to many mental health issues. It causes people not to be able to think properly, causing them to have a lack of concentration and focus. Additionally, it can cause people to have mood swings, making them more likely to feel depressed or anxious.

- Be social: Socializing helps us feel connected with others, boosting our mental health and well-being. Humans are social creatures by nature. We need to feel connected with others, leading to a happier life. Studies have shown that socializing for just 15 minutes a day reduces stress and anxiety. This is because socializing allows people to break away from the daily grind and renew their energy. It also motivates them to continue with their essential tasks.

- Take time for ourselves. Sometimes it’s important to take time out for ourselves, even if it means just sitting in silence or walking outside. To be productive, we need to take time out for ourselves. We need a break from the day-to-day distractions that can often make us feel drained of energy and unable to focus on our work.

- Spend some quality time with friends and family. Spending time with friends and family is important for mental health. In today's society, people spend most of their time working or on the computer. Spending time with friends and family can be a healthy break from the routine.

- Do something for ourselves, like going out for dinner. One of the most important things we can do for ourselves is to take time. Whether going to the movies, out for dinner or just sitting and reading a book, we take time for ourselves.

- Get organized: One way to keep ourselves sane is by getting organized with our work and personal life. This will help us feel less stressed, leading to better mental health. One of the most effective ways to get organized is with a to-do list. A list helps us stay focused and reach goals while leaving less room for procrastination.

- It might be helpful to set the alarm for every hour to stay focused on the task and avoid procrastination or distraction from social media sites like Facebook or Twitter.

Working on a project for hours without interruption can be exhausting. This can be especially true if we are trying to work on a project that requires deep thought and concentration. Setting the alarm can help break up the time and provide a welcome break from the task. It is also possible that setting the alarm could make us more productive because it removes distractions like social media sites which are often linked to procrastination.

- The most important thing is, to be honest with ourselves and not beat ourselves up if we fail at something. It is also important to take care of our mental well-being by taking time for ourselves, setting boundaries, and having a positive attitude.

- Start each day with a morning routine that includes exercise or meditation. A morning routine can make all the difference in how we feel about our day. A routine that starts with exercise can help us release pent-up energy, decrease stress and anxiety, and increase our endurance. Plus, it will make us feel more accomplished throughout the day and get us into a positive mindset for everything else that is to come.

- Use our lunch break as a way to clear our heads. Take a step outside to get lunch or coffee. Just make sure we take time away from our desks to give our minds a break.

We all know the feeling. You've been stuck on a project all day, and your brain is fried. You can't think of anything to do to get yourself out of this rut. Give your mind a break at lunch with just a short walk outside – even if it is just as far as the coffee stand in the lobby.

- Start our day with a positive mindset by telling ourselves that we will have a good day and accomplish everything we set out to do.

- Creating an environment where we can thrive is not always easy. However, there are many ways to work towards it. Create an environment where we can thrive by seeking support from friends and family members as often as possible and finding ways to recharge on our own.

- Take one day at a time, and don't rush into anything. There are many reasons to avoid rushing into work. One of the most common reasons is that when we rush, we make mistakes. When we rush and make a mistake, it can lead to more mistakes because of the time and energy it takes to fix them. The best thing to do is take one day at a time and don't rush into anything.

- When tasks seem too big, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and give up. One way to avoid this is by starting with small tasks so that we can gradually adjust to our workload. As we become more comfortable with a certain task, we can move on to bigger ones.

- Prepare our lunch before bed, so it's ready for waking up. Preparing our lunch before bed can help us save valuable time, money, and frustration in the morning. This saves us from packing our lunches before work or taking the time to grocery shop and cook.

- To be productive and have high levels of focus, we may want to create an environment that helps keep ourselves motivated. There are many ways to do this, such as listening to music, using a white noise machine, or having fresh flowers in our office. These things can help by giving off positive feelings and motivating us.

- Taking a deep breath can effectively reduce the stress and tension that is commonly present in our muscles. Breathing deeply fills the lungs with oxygen, which can then be used by the body to perform essential functions like digestion. This action also reduces blood pressure and releases endorphins into the brain, which have been known to reduce pain and promote a sense of well-being.

- Limit our work schedule to business hours the first week we return to work if we can.

When we return to work after a long absence, it can be hard to adjust back into the swing of things. This can make us feel rushed and frantic because we are trying to complete our workload in a much shorter time than before. So, if we are feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be completed, we may want to consider limiting our work schedule to business hours the first week back so that we don’t get overwhelmed or burnt out.

- And finally, ensure that we balance work and personal time to maintain our sanity and well-being.

Maintaining a balance between work and personal time can be difficult. However, it is important to find this balance to maintain our sanity and well-being. One way to achieve this is by setting boundaries with our clients. Setting a specific time of the day when we will not take on any new projects or answer emails is one way that you can improve your fulfillment without sacrificing your professional relationships.

Final Thoughts:

Many people struggle with returning to work after a long vacation. They have trouble getting back into the rhythm of things and often feel overwhelmed. Try to take time for yourself before going back to work. You can do this by walking, meditating, or doing yoga. This will help you feel more energized and ready to face the day ahead.

If you are still feeling overwhelmed when returning to work, try to talk to your supervisor about what is going on and see if they can help make your day less stressful by giving you more time off from work or changing your schedule, so it is more manageable for you.

30 Ways to Navigate the Post-Holiday Blues

Many people experience post-holiday blues after the season is over. It's a natural feeling, but it doesn't have to be ongoing, disruptive, or even debilitating.  There are many ways that you can cope with the post-holiday blues and get back on track for your new year. 

As a psychotherapist who works with a range of clients, here are some of my best tips.

1. The holidays are often a time of year spent with family and friends.

   After a long, busy holiday season, many people experience the "post-holiday blues." If you are one of them, you may feel lonely or sad because you didn't have time to spend with people you like, with friends, or that the magic of the season is over. However, it is important to remember that this feeling will go away in time. 

2. Get back into your routine as soon as possible.

   It's normal to have a tough time returning to your routine post-vacation. You may feel tired, sluggish, or even irritable at times. You might miss the feeling of being in a different place with different people, food, and things to do. ​​However, the structure you create for yourself post-holiday will help improve your mood.

3. Develop an exercise routine to improve your mental health and mood.

   Creating a fitness routine is a great way to maintain your mental wellness. Research shows exercise helps improve mood. You can start by walking, going for a jog, or trying a yoga or pilates class if you like. Moving your body will help you get out of the post-holiday funk.

4. Reflect on what you are grateful for and what you achieved the year prior.

   This will help improve your mood. Reflecting on what you are grateful for is a great way to set your mind in the right direction and improve your mood. This process can be as simple as thinking about all the good things that happened to you during the year. You can also do something more involved, like creating a list of things you are grateful for and why.

5. Plan out what you would like to achieve for the upcoming year.

   It is the perfect time to plan for the forthcoming year. With goals fresh on your mind, now is the ideal time to think about what you want to accomplish during the next 12 months. This will give you a clear vision of what goals you need to achieve to attain your desires.

6. Try keeping track of your daily successes.

   When you keep track of all the good work you are doing, it can help you talk back to any negative thoughts or emotions you are having.

7. Spend time with friends and family who make you happy.

   Spending time with friends and family who make you happy is a great way to keep yourself in a good mood after the holiday season.

8. Do something you enjoy, such as reading a book or walking outside.

9. Taking time for yourself is an essential part of maintaining your mental health.

   The benefits of taking a break from work, such as reading a book or taking a walk outside, have been well documented.

10. Take time for yourself: You are not obligated to socialize or go out every night.

    As you're getting older, it's important to take time for yourself away from your friends and social life. 

11. Schedule an activity.

    If your schedule has been open until now, start filling it up with things like volunteering, cooking, knitting, or crafting! It is essential to ensure you are taking time to do something you enjoy. Scheduling these activities as a part of your routine can help you get back into a more positive mood and release some of the stress in your life.

12. Find a new hobby or learn something new, like how to speak another language.

    Learning a new language can help you to improve your cognitive skills, gain cultural understanding, and experience different ways of thinking. The best part is that you are the only one who can decide how far you want to go. You can start with your favorite TV show or music in the language and go from there.

13. Ask yourself: What do I need right now?

    Focus on what you need and want, then. Sometimes we get so caught up in what we don't have that we forget to focus on what we do have. It's easy to focus on what you need and want, but it's just as important to take the time and enjoy the things you already have.

14. Self-care is caring for one's own needs and looking out for oneself.

    This can include activities that make you feel good, such as getting a massage, listening to music, or seeing a movie. The importance of self-care cannot be understated as it is essential for emotional well-being and improves moods.

15. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you are persistently sad or hopeless after the holidays.

    Depression is a common mental illness that affects millions of Americans. Sadly, not everyone recognizes the signs of depression. If you are persistently sad or hopeless, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

16. Get in touch with your feelings by writing down what you're feeling.

    It can be challenging to identify and name what you're feeling. By writing down what you're feeling and why, you can explore your thoughts, gain clarity on the situation, and find the words to express yourself.

17. Finding someone who understands what you're going through can be challenging, but there are many avenues that can provide support.

    You can talk to someone on the phone, face-to-face, or online. Talk to someone on the phone, face-to-face, or online if you need support from someone who understands what you're going through.

18. Think about what you want out of life to be happier in the future.

    We all want to be happy but only sometimes know how. To help with this, we can first reflect on what kind of life we want to lead. Reflecting on your passions and the things you value most will help you identify the steps you need to take to get there. Once you've done that, it's time to start making progress toward your goals by following a plan.

19. Join a club or meetup group to meet new people.

    Joining one will not only be fun, but it can also help you meet people who have similar interests. There are many groups to choose from, but some good ideas are to join a running club or meet up to learn new skills.

20. Reconnect with your passions this new year.

    This new year, consider reconnecting with your desires. You can take up photography and go on a photo walk or take up painting and go to an art class. If you're interested in the arts, visit a gallery or museum in your local area. 

21. Be present to enjoy the moment.

    "You're missing out on something amazing if you're not present." We often say this quote to people who seem to be living in the past or future, but we must take it to heart. It's easy to get lost in our thoughts and miss what's happening. Being present has countless benefits, from making memories to strengthening relationships.

22. Reflect on what went well and what you want to change this new year.

    This will give you perspective for the upcoming year. Reflecting on the past year is a great way to create goals and set intentions for the new year. For example, listing something like, 'I want to spend more time with my family, work fewer hours, and spend more time volunteering' will help you get focused on your goals.

23. One way to get back on track is to try and develop new habits.

    The best way to create new habits is to start with small tasks. Start by trying to do one new daily task that you can build on. For example, if you want healthy food, start by making one small change.

24. Get the creativity flowing.

    The key to staying creative is trying new things. Try new things like cooking or eating different foods to break out of a rut. We're all guilty of getting in a cooking rut from time to time or eating the same thing every day for lunch. The best way to get out of this rut is to try something new - like cooking different dishes, eating something new for lunch, or even asking your friends and family for suggestions on what they want you to cook next.

25. Enjoy the little things.

    It can be difficult not to focus on what you didn't get done or what you could have done better during this time of year. Take a step back and appreciate all that you still have going for you, even if it's just one thing.

26. Practice deep breathing exercises for four to five minutes.

    Deep breathing exercises can be done just about anywhere, anytime, and are an excellent way to lower stress levels. Deep breathing helps to regulate the body's sympathetic nervous system and is a natural way of counteracting the fight-or-flight response.

27. Animal videos are a great way to relax and feel better.

    They are so popular, there is even an app called Animal Planet that has thousands of hours of these types of programs. You can watch them on your phone or laptop at any time, anywhere. The next time you need a pick-me-up, try watching a video of an adorable animal!

28. Buy some plants for around the house.

    There are many reasons to start incorporating plants into your home. They can provide a great source of oxygen and improve your mood. You can find some great options on the internet, such as flowering plants, succulents, and more.

29. Get outside in nature.

    Spending time in nature may be the best thing you can do to improve your mental health. Studies have shown that being around plants, trees, and animals can help people feel more positive, reduce stress and improve mental health.

30. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of what is happening in the present moment.

    It has been shown to have many benefits, including reduced stress and improved attention. Practicing mindfulness can be very beneficial for your mental health. One study found that practicing mindfulness can reduce anxiety, depression, and pain. It also improves sleep quality and reduces stress hormones like cortisol. Practicing mindfulness has also been shown to improve people’s performance at work, by increasing focus and reducing distractions. And it can even improve how you feel about your body by reducing negative self-image thoughts and feelings.

We have all seen images of happy and relaxed people who have just returned from holiday. But for many, the post-holiday blues are a real thing. This is a feeling that people get when they return to their everyday life after a period of excitement or happiness. It can be challenging to cope with this feeling, and some people may experience it more than others. The post-holiday blues are often caused by the contrast between what we imagine our lives will be like when we go on holiday and what they are like when we return home. But if you follow these tips, then you will be able to manage them effectively. 

The Best Planners and Journals for the New Year

The new year is fast approaching, and it's time to start thinking about what we want to achieve in the next 12 months, personally or professionally. If you need help figuring out where to start, these are some of the best planners and journals for busy women for 2023.

But first, a planner is a great way to keep track of your goals and progress throughout the year and monitor your daily schedule. It's a perfect tool for someone who needs help sticking with their resolutions or plans. There are multiple types of planners out there, so it's essential to find one that suits your needs. A journal, on the other hand, is usually the best place to go when you want to know what someone is thinking or feeling. It can be used as a therapeutic tool to help people struggling with mental health problems and overwhelming emotions, or it can be used as an outlet for people who have experienced trauma and need to work through their feelings. Journals also provide a way for people to process their thoughts and feelings after a challenging experience.

Here are our top planner and journal picks for this new year. 

Designed by business coach, entrepreneur, and author Jennifer Dawn, the Best Planner Ever Daily Planner in the 12 month-package, is for the high-achieving female who wants better work and life balance, to be organized, and to accomplish more daily. The planner helps you set your priorities, plan your week, and review goals with a weekly calendar. This planner is available in Teal, Charcoal, Yellow, Coral, Beach, Floral, Lilac, Tulips, or a Stencil cover. Available for $54.99.

The Stress-Busting Guide: How to Enhance Your Mood and Shift Your Mindset by Angela Ficken LICSW — Mental health is a big concern today. Stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. The best way to combat those feelings is with a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, socializing, planning, and journaling. This digital planner/journal offers ways to live a healthy life by calming the mind and boosting moods. Available for $9.99. 

Get access to trackers for habits, moods, meals, journaling prompts, and evidence-based exercises. These trackers can help people understand their routines better and make changes where necessary. The Silk and Sonder’s monthly ($24.95 a month), quarterly $19.99 a month), or annual ($15.75 a month) planner subscription is an excellent addition for those who want both an app and a paper journal/planner.

Created by Emily Ley, The Daily Simplified Planner is designed for busy women who want to stay organized without getting overwhelmed. Compared to traditional planners, the Daily Simplified Planner is broken down into chunks of time, making it manageable to track daily tasks. Features gold-wire binding, an interior pocket/folder, and heavy card stock. When you purchase a planner, you will receive access to the Simplified Coaching Video Library accessible via the EmilyLey.com login. Available for $64.00.

The Passion Planner, in the Weekly 2023 Planner Hardcover Rabbit Moonlight Rose Gold, beginning on Sunday or Monday, will help you get organized. This planner will help you maximize productivity and enhance your organization this new year. This company also supports the mission of Malala Yousafzai and her organization Malala Fund. The Malala Fund is a non-profit organization founded by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai. This organization advocates for resources such as funding, education, and awareness in the development of girls worldwide. The mission is to educate and empower girls to pursue 12 years of schooling. Available for $33.14.

The MomAgenda 2023 Monthly and Weekly Engagement Calendar is a new take on what planners can offer, with a dynamic and inviting design that doesn't sacrifice function. With the ability to create your daily layout or use one of MomAgenda's pre-designed layouts, this planner is perfect for moms who need everything in one place. Cover options include French Rose, Blush Zebra, Azure Zebra, Bluestone, or Charcoal Leopard. Available for $44.00 with various upgrade options.

The Bullet Journal is a planner used to organize daily tasks and events. It can be as simple or complex as the user wants it to be. Bullet journals are not a new concept. They have been around for decades, but they have become more popular in the past few years because of how easy they are to use and how they can help people with any type of schedule or lifestyle. A bullet journal can be used by anyone who wants to keep track of their tasks, appointments, goals, and other things that need to get done on a day-to-day basis. One such favorite is Bullet Dotted Journal by String and Space. Its simple and minimalist design will help you stay focused and organized this new year. Available for $19.95. 

Lilly Pulitzer Planners are available in three sizes: mini planner, medium planner, and large planner. The mini and medium planners are available in horizontal or vertical designs. The large planner comes only in a horizontal format. All of these planners are offered as hardbound or spiral-bound options. The planners come with monthly and weekly layouts on each page and space to write notes on each day’s events and to-do lists at the bottom of each week’s layout. There are also several pages at the end of each month for notes about birthdays or other important dates that must be remembered throughout the year. The Lilly Pulitzer Planner is affordable for those who want to keep track of their lives. 

These planners feature a monthly and weekly layout with plenty of white space. The pages have a creative design with plenty of room to write notes. There are customizable stickers, and the pages are thick enough that you won't be able to see through them from behind. Available at a variety of prices from $25.00 to $36.00.

The Erin Condren Metallic New Year Lifeplanner is a planner that helps you plan your life. It features weekly, monthly, or yearly planning, productivity pages, stickers, and more.  Coiled by hand with a strong cover that is also wet-erase and 80-pound text-weight paper, this planner is designed to keep you organized. Cover options include Gold, Platinum, Rose Gold, and Iridescent. Available for $48.00. 

The 5 Minute Journal - 5 Minute Journal a Day, Daily Gratitude Journal for More Happiness, Mindfulness, Productivity & Reflection is designed to help people focus on their mental and physical health. It is a simple journaling app that asks you to answer five questions each day. The questions are:
1) What are you grateful for today?
2) What was the best moment of your day?
3) What was the worst moment of your day?
4) How could you have made today better?
5) What does your ideal day look like?

You can also set reminders for yourself, which will pop up at the designated time. The reminders include drinking water, meditating, or doing some stretches. Available for $12.39. 

The Happy Planner is a planner with a monthly and weekly layout. It's designed to help people take control of their lives and simplify the planning process. Various colors, layouts, and accessories are available. 

Let That Sh*t Go: A Journal for Leaving Your Bullsh*t Behind and Creating a Happy Life is for any woman who needs a little boost and humor. This journal allows readers to explore their deepest thoughts and emotions, work through their problems, find healing and let go of the past. Additionally, this journal is designed to help you find peace and happiness in your daily life. Available for $8.99. 

Present, Not Perfect: A Journal for Slowing Down, Letting Go, and Loving Who You Are is for the busy woman who would like to learn how to slow down a bit and enjoy life’s smaller moments. This journal has prompts and space to write on each page that can help you find peace in the present moment. The journal includes a guide for setting intentions at the beginning of each week. It also serves as a place to hold thoughts and memories. Available for $10.29.

Self-Love Workbook for Women: Release Self-Doubt, Build Self-Compassion, and Embrace Who You Are is for the woman who needs help to embrace who she is. If this sounds like you, this journal helps you release self-doubt, build self-compassion, and embrace who you are. The workbook includes prompts, journaling exercises, and different creative activities that help you learn to love yourself. Available on Kindle for free, audio for free, or paperback for $9.59. 

Buddha's Brain: The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Love, and Wisdom by Rick Hanson and Daniel J. Siegel is focused on the neuroscience of mindfulness and its applications in everyday life. This guidebook provides scientific explanations of mindfulness practices rooted in the science of the brain, helping you understand how to make lasting changes in your life. This book is also filled with exercises that can be used to apply mindfulness techniques in daily life. Available for $10.99. 

Ponderlily® Weekly Planner 2023, Midnight Blue’s the perfect gift for those who need a little help with organization and productivity. The dark blue cover is the ideal balance to the gold foil lettering creating a polished and professional look. This planner also features bright, captivating colors and a range of helpful features that will make any day just a little bit easier. This planner is a time management and goal-setting system for anyone who wants to have more control over their life. It includes features making it the perfect way to mark your goals, set your intentions, and be productive. Available with a Monday start for $49.00. 

Many different planners and journals are available on the market, but some may work better than others, depending on your needs. If you're looking for a planner or journal that helps with productivity, organization, and goal-setting, then a paper planner/journal may be more up your alley. If you need something digital and can use it on your phone or computer, then a digital planner/journal may be better suited for your lifestyle. 

How to Set and Reach Your Goals this New Year

Why Setting Goals Is More Effective than Planning New Year’s Resolutions

Setting smaller goals is a better approach than setting new year's resolutions. Resolutions often don't last, and you can feel discouraged when you don't achieve them. However, smaller goals are more achievable, and you can feel successful after completing them.

No matter the scope of a goal, setting one can be challenging for even the most seasoned person. There are many different ways to create them, and they all have advantages and disadvantages. So, the best way to set a goal is to decide what you want and your motivation and then figure out the steps it will take to get there.

In the following article, we'll discuss three types of goal-setting frameworks but dive deeply into the most notable--SMART Goals to ensure you hit yours this new year. 

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Types of Goal-Setting Frameworks:

The "SMART" method is one of the most popular ways to set goals. This strategy stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-sensitive. A smart goal is a type of goal that is specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This means that the goal should be clear about what you want to achieve and how you will know when you've completed it. It should also be something that can be accomplished in a certain amount of time (not too long or short). Finally, the goal should be relevant to your life and work so that it's not just another task on your to-do list.

The "SATISFACTORY" method is another way to set goals that focuses on getting things done as quickly as possible with little regard for how well they are done or how much effort it takes to do them.

The "SCARED" method is another way that focuses on avoiding failure at all costs by setting low expectations and not challenging oneself.

If you need help setting SMART goals, here are some easy yet effective ways to do it this new year. 

1. The first step in achieving goals is to identify the goals.

   Knowing what you want to achieve will help you focus on the steps necessary to make it happen. Once you've identified your goals, you need to decide how you will achieve them. The key is to figure out what resources (time, money, people, etc.) you have available and plan accordingly.

1. For example, if you want to improve the quality of your writing, then you should consider the following steps:

1. Organize your thoughts and ideas before you start writing.

2. Develop a thesis statement idea.

3. Use an outline or a storyboard to draft the content of your article. 

4. Revise and edit your work to ensure it's well-written and understandable.

2. Set an objective and a deadline.

   Setting an objective and a deadline is crucial because it helps you to keep your goal in perspective. It also allows you to focus on what you want to achieve because, with these two things, it's easier to stay focused and maintain sight of your goal.

1. Some examples of objectives are

1. Write an essay in 10 days.

2. Learn how to do something new within three months.

3. Save $1,000 before March 2023.

4. Travel to Europe this year. 

2. Some examples of deadlines are

1. Finish my book draft by the end of the month.

2. Complete my essay by the end of this week.

3. Write a business plan by the end of the quarter. 

4. Go to Paris by August 20.

3. Be sure to set long-term, short-term, and medium-term goals. 

1. You can set short-term goals over a day, a week, or a month. 

2. You can set medium-term goals over a quarter or six months. 

3. You can complete long-term goals over a year or more. 

4. Be realistic with your expectations.

   Setting realistic goals when you set a new goal or start a new project is essential. This will help you stay on track and not get discouraged if you don't reach your destination in the time frame you originally planned.

5. To set a goal effectively, you need to have a plan on how you will achieve it and what resources you will need (time, money).

6. Prioritize essential tasks to ensure you stay on the goal-setting track.

   It's always best to start with the most urgent task and work your way down. This will ensure you do what needs to be done and remember all essential items.

7. Make sure your goal is achievable but challenging enough to keep you motivated.

1. The goal should be challenging but possible. You should be able to work hard and achieve the goal you set. Setting small goals and achieving them will help you build momentum and motivate you to do more.

8. Write your goal down and share it with people you trust.

   If you have a goal that you want to achieve, it's essential to share your plan with people you trust. There are many ways to do this, such as writing it down on paper and posting it somewhere prominent so that people will see it every day.

9. Get feedback from mentors or colleagues on how to achieve your goal better.

   Getting feedback on how to achieve your goal is one of the best ways to improve yourself. You can get feedback from mentors, colleagues, or family members. Ask them what they think you could do better and how they would change the way you are doing it now. Additionally, find someone who has reached your goal and see how they did it. Look for patterns and similarities between your dreams and theirs. You might find that you are on the right track but need to tweak a few things.

10. Keep track of what you have accomplished so far; this will motivate you to continue working towards your goal and give you a sense of accomplishment when it's achieved.

11. Make a public declaration of your goal.

    The general statement of your purpose can make it more real. It's a way to take the idea you want to achieve and make it more tangible. It's also a way to let other people know what you're working towards, and they can help you with your goal.

12. Find a partner and make a pact to hold each other accountable for achieving your goals.

    You can email or text one another weekly to monthly to check in to ensure you’re both staying on track. 

13. Post reminders in places you'll see often, such as the bathroom mirror or on the dashboard of your desk.

    For example, if you have to go grocery shopping, post a note on the bathroom mirror. This will help you remember before you've left home and can avoid the inconvenience of forgetting when you're at the store.

1. It's not always easy to remember things and we often need to remember what we were supposed to do in mid-stride. But, with a few post-it notes placed strategically around your home or office, you'll be able to remember what you need to do and where.

14. Design a mood board.

    Create visual reminders by drawing pictures, making collages, or taking photos of what success looks like to you. A study by the University of Waterloo found that people who created visual reminders of what success looked like to them could perform better in their academic and work-related tasks. This is because they were able to keep themselves focused on their goals.

    Ask yourself what you want your life to look like in five years, 10 years, 20 years, etc, and write it down. This exercise will help you create a vision for your life and what you want to accomplish in the future. It is essential to write this down because it can be hard to remember things after a while, so if you write them down, they are more likely to become a reality.

15. Consider what you would need to do for the next 12 months for your current goal if you were 100 percent successful at achieving that goal.

    Make modifications as necessary to ensure you hit your goals on time.

16. Find a way to celebrate each time you reach a milestone in achieving your goal (even if it's just a little bit).

17. Get rid of distractions and stay focused on what needs to be done.

    With so many distractions, it can be challenging to stay on task. To avoid the temptation of procrastination, you need to make a plan and stick with it. Some ways to keep focused include

1. Starting the day with healthy habits: a good night's sleep, eating well, exercising, and managing stress.

2. Having a work routine that suits your personality and being mindful of the time.

3. Being fearless to take breaks and have some fun now and then.

4. Set reminders so you remember all of your tasks and deadlines.

18. Write down your goal as an affirmation and say it out loud every day until you believe in yourself and your ability to achieve this goal.

    Affirmations are positive statements or beliefs in oneself. They can be used to help a person accomplish a goal or get rid of unwanted habits. When they are repeated over and over, they start to shape one's perception of themselves. When you say your affirmations out loud, you will notice all the ways in which you already believe it is true and can happen.

19. Find someone who has already achieved what you want to achieve and ask them how they did it because they have already been through what you are going through now.

    It's never too late to learn from the best, so if you're looking for advice or a role model, find someone who has already achieved what you want to achieve and ask them how they did it because they have already been through what you are going through now.

20. Lastly, take action! The only way that anything will happen is if you do something about it.

    The only way that anything will happen is if you do something about it. You need to take calculated risks, try new things, and not fear failure.

Final thoughts:

There are many ways to set goals. You can set goals for yourself, your children, or other people. Plans can be long-term and short-term. Goals can be personal or professional and may be physical, emotional, spiritual, or intellectual. But the key to success is staying focused and consistent to ensure you meet your goals.

The Effectiveness of Mental Health Coaching

Mental health coaching can benefit anyone who has struggled with mental health issues or is struggling with them. The benefits of coaching are not limited to those with a diagnosis, as many people without a diagnosis find that their mental health improves when they start talking about it. 

Mental health coaching, which doesn’t require someone to have a specific license, is often seen as a way to help people with mental issues and challenges, but it can also help people struggling with life in general. Mental health coaching is not a cure for mental problems. It is more of an intervention that will provide support and guidance to someone diagnosed with a mental illness or struggling with life. The coach's goal is to assist the client in their personal growth and development so they can lead their best lives possible. If you’re interested in learning how mental health coaching can help you, continue reading. 

Mental Health Coaching Benefits:

- Increased self-awareness: 

Self-awareness is a state of mind in which one understands oneself. This includes being aware of one's strengths, weaknesses, and emotions. Self-awareness is a trait that can be developed over time, and it can be used to improve one's life.

Self-awareness is critical because it helps people to know themselves better. It also helps them make better decisions and improve their relationships.

There are many ways in which people can develop self-awareness, such as coaching, meditation, journaling, or even reading books on the subject matter.

- Reduced stress:

There are many benefits to reducing stress in life. One of the most important is that it can help you feel better and enjoy life more. Here are some of the ways that reducing stress can benefit your health:

-It reduces your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

-It reduces your risk for anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders.

-It helps you sleep better at night and wake up feeling refreshed.

-It helps you control your weight by improving eating habits and physical activity levels.

-It boosts your immune system by strengthening the body’s natural defenses.

-It increases creativity, productivity, and energy levels so you can do more with less effort.

- Improved relationships and self-esteem: 

Relationships are an essential part of our lives, and self-esteem is a critical factor that can affect how we feel about ourselves. There are many ways to improve relationships, but one of the best ways is to be more mindful of what you say.

Mindfulness is about being aware and attentive at the moment. It means focusing on what you're doing, feeling, or thinking at the time instead of letting your mind wander or getting distracted by other things happening around you. Being mindful doesn't mean that you need to be perfect or always do things perfectly; it just means that you're aware when something isn't going as well as it could have gone and try to change your behavior, so things get better. People who are mindful when they speak tend to have better relationships with others and higher self-esteem.

Mindfulness has many benefits: it can help people feel less stress, anxiety, anger, sadness, depression, and shame; it can help calm their minds.

- Enhanced work performance

Working in a fast-paced environment can be stressful and demanding. The best way to keep up is to care for yourself and your mental health. The following are some tips on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle while working in a fast-paced environment:

- Healthier living overall:

- Eat well-balanced meals, including vegetables, fruit, protein, and whole grains. Make sure to eat breakfast and eat more often than three large meals daily. This will help you avoid overeating at lunch or dinner time.

- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when you are tired or hungry.

- Get enough sleep at night by going to bed early enough so that you wake up feeling refreshed and energized for the next day’s work schedule.

- Exercise regularly by taking short walks during your lunch break or doing some stretching exercises during your daily commute home from work. You can also take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible to get some exercise in your schedule. 

- Enhanced mood and positive mindset

A positive mindset and mood are the keys to success. Mood and attitude affect productivity, creativity, and happiness directly. Maintaining a positive mood is essential to be mindful of your thoughts. You must also take care of your physical health.

- Coping skills for when things feel difficult 

Coping skills are essential because they help people feel better when feeling stressed, anxious, or sad. Coping skills can also help people to manage their emotions healthily.

Some coping skills that might be helpful include:

-Talking to someone about the problem

-Writing in a journal about your feelings

-Doing something active or fun, like playing sports or going for a walk

-Listening to music you enjoy

- Defined goals and plans to achieve them:

The first step in setting goals is to find out what motivates you. What are your values? What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? When you know these things, it will be easier for you to set goals that will help you live a more fulfilling life.

Once you have identified your values, strengths, weaknesses, and motivations, it is time to start thinking about what kind of life you want. It is essential to write down everything that comes to mind so it can be reviewed later. Some questions may include: What do I want my day-to-day life to look like–whether it’s a weekday or weekend? Where do I see myself in five years? Who do I want in my life? Once you have answered these questions, creating a plan or goal map is time. 

- An outlet for emotional expression: 

Emotional expression can be a difficult task to express in words. It is sometimes easier to express emotions through art or music. But what about when you want to share your feelings with someone else? Coaching is where emotional expression through writing comes into play.

Writing has always been a popular way of expressing emotion, so it only makes sense that there are now many outlets for emotional expression through writing. Many websites and apps, such as Thought Catalog and Happier, allow people to write their thoughts and feelings down. These sites provide a place for people to discuss their own experiences as well as the experiences of others.

Providing an outlet for emotional expression is important because it allows people who don't have the means or ability to express themselves emotionally through other methods the opportunity to do so in a safe space. 

-Helping people to manage their mental health by giving them a safe space to talk about what they are going through and find solutions together.

An issue like anxiety is a challenge that strikes people from all walks of life. It is a common mental disorder that can affect people of any age, gender, and economic background. It is not only about anxiety but also about sharing support for each other and building community.

- Improvements with depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders:

Depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders affect millions of people around the world. These disorders can lead to a decrease in mental health, leading to increased self-harm and suicide. Luckily, some treatments can help people with these disorders by promoting their mental health. Some of these treatments include one-to-one coaching sessions, therapy sessions, or medication. 

-Mental health coaching can help people with difficulties in their relationships or careers due to stress or other mental illnesses:

Mental health coaching is a great way to gain physical and psychological well-being. It can be used for people with difficulties in their relationships or careers due to stress or other mental illnesses. Coaches can help with any type of mental illness and will work with you to identify the obstacles preventing you from living life to the fullest.

-Mental health coaching can help individuals who have difficulty coping with life’s challenges and changes.

-Mental health coaching can be used for children and adolescents who need support for managing difficult emotions or behaviors, such as anger management, mood swings, or self-destructive behaviors:

Therapy is a great way to help children and adolescents who need support for managing difficult emotions or behaviors. It can be used for youth struggling with anger management, mood swings, or self-destructive behaviors

- Identified unhealthy behaviors:

Mental health coaching can help you identify unhealthy behaviors and change them to healthier ones. The coach will work with you to create a personal plan for your life, including goals and strategies for achieving those goals. The coach is there as a sounding board who will listen to your ideas and give feedback.

- Improved balance in your life: 

There are so many things that can happen in a day that can cause you to feel overwhelmed. Whether it is work, family, or personal life, balancing all those things is essential. Mental health coaching can help you find that balance and improve your mental well-being.

Mental health coaching focuses on the mental and emotional aspects of your life. It helps you understand what is going on with your thoughts and feelings to make better decisions about handling them.

-Provide support for parents of children with special needs:

Mental health coaching can be a great way to support parents of children with special needs. This type of coaching provides a space for parents to talk about their feelings and concerns related to their child’s disability and the challenges they face daily.

Mental health coaching can help parents identify and manage the stressors in their lives, learn how to communicate more effectively with other people, and develop skills that will help them cope better with difficult situations.

- Support people who have experienced trauma:

Mental health coaching is an emerging profession that is a blend of psychology, counseling, social work, and education. Mental health coaching can assist people who have experienced trauma. Mental health coaches help people to develop and maintain mental wellness by addressing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

- Develop a more positive outlook on life:

A wellness coach can help you develop a more positive and hopeful attitude. They will work with you to set goals and help you achieve them through various techniques such as meditation, journaling, physical exercise, and healthy eating.

- Get better sleep quality:

A common problem that people face is not being able to sleep well. There are many reasons for this, such as stress and anxiety. One way to combat this is through wellness coaching. This is a service offered by some therapists and coaches that helps you deal with the underlying causes of your insomnia.

The causes of insomnia vary from person to person, but most experts agree that it is best to work with a professional who can help you find the root of your sleep problems. Working with a therapist and coach can help you identify and overcome the underlying causes of your insomnia.

Mental health coaching is a type of counseling that helps people with mental health challenges. It can be done by phone, Skype/Zoom, email, or text messages. Such coaching can help people with mental health issues by teaching them how to cope with and manage their challenges.

Ultimately, mental health coaches are trained to provide support and practical advice for common issues such as anxiety, burnout, or stress management. They also teach skills that can help prevent future relapse of symptoms, such as stress management techniques and time management skills.